Rotary Nozzle Head Drive Mechanism for Remote Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing nozzle-carrying devices require manual operation to rotate the nozzle-carrying head, limiting the ability to remotely switch nozzles between predetermined positions.
Innovation Solution
A mechanism featuring drive teeth on the nozzle-carrying head and a retractable drive pawl driven by an oscillating actuator, allowing the nozzle-carrying head to be remotely rotated to predetermined positions without manual intervention, along with an anti-drop device and immobilizing means for secure positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual operation is used to rotate the nozzle-carrying head, then the device structure remains simple, but the ability to remotely switch nozzles is limited and manual intervention is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical rotation system with an automated drive mechanism comprising an actuator, oscillating element, and pawl-ratchet system. The actuator automatically drives the oscillating element which engages with drive teeth on the nozzle-carrying head, eliminating the need for manual intervention while maintaining mechanical reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a dynamic oscillating element that moves between extended and retracted positions to engage and disengage with drive teeth. This dynamic mechanism allows automated incremental rotation of the nozzle-carrying head through controlled oscillation, enabling remote operation without continuous mechanical connection.
2Ease of operation
If automated drive mechanism is added, then remote operation is enabled, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the drive mechanism into distinct functional components: an actuator for generating motion, an oscillating element for converting linear motion to oscillatory motion, and a pawl-ratchet system for incremental rotation. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while enabling modular assembly and maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The oscillating element serves as an intermediary between the actuator and the nozzle-carrying head. It converts the actuator's linear motion into oscillatory motion that engages with drive teeth, providing a mechanical mediation that simplifies the overall transmission path and reduces the need for complex direct coupling mechanisms.
3Manufacturing precision
If drive pawl is made retractable, then smooth positioning is achieved, but the mechanism requires additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The drive pawl is designed to be dynamically retractable, moving between engaged and disengaged positions relative to the drive teeth. This dynamic capability allows the pawl to smoothly engage with teeth for precise positioning and retract for the next positioning step, achieving high positioning accuracy through controlled mechanical motion rather than complex multi-component systems.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention concerns a nozzle support device (10) comprising a body (12) that has a fluid inlet passage (24) and at least one outlet passage (26), and that comprises a revolving section that forms a hub (16) that extends around a rotational axis (A), a nozzle-carrying head (14) that is rotatably mounted on the hub (16) of the body (12) around the rotational axis (A), and that is designed to simultaneously carry at least two nozzles, and immobilising means (74, 86) for immobilising the nozzle-carrying head (14) in rotation on the body (12) in a plurality of predefined positions, characterised in that the device (10) is provided with a mechanism for rotating the nozzle-carrying head (14) comprising an oscillating drive member (90) provided with at least one retractable drive pawl that has one free end designed to push the drive teeth in succession.