Rotary Nozzle Variable Arc Adjustment Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional irrigation nozzles lack flexibility in adjusting the water distribution arc, leading to overwatering or underwatering due to limited adjustability, especially when multiple nozzles are used over extended terrain, resulting in inefficient irrigation coverage.
Innovation Solution
A variable arc nozzle design that allows users to set the water distribution arc to any desired angle without requiring tools, featuring a rotatable deflector with spiral vanes and a camming mechanism between the nozzle body portions to adjust the arcuate opening, along with a radius reduction feature for regulating flow rate and throw radius.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional nozzles with fixed or limited arc patterns are used, then the nozzle structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the adaptability to different terrain and irrigation needs is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic arc adjustment mechanism where the deflector can be rotated to any position within a full 360-degree range, allowing continuous variation of the water distribution arc. This dynamic capability enables the nozzle to adapt to different terrain and irrigation needs, transforming a static fixed-arc design into a versatile adjustable system.
Solution Approach 2:
The deflector is divided into multiple vanes that can be independently positioned, and the arc adjustment is achieved through segmentation of the flow path by positioning these vanes at different angular locations. This segmentation allows precise control over the distribution pattern while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If interchangeable pattern inserts or punch-outs are used to select arc patterns, then the arc selection is limited to discrete options, but the ease of operation is improved through simple selection
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of discrete interchangeable inserts, the patent employs a continuous rotation mechanism where the deflector can be positioned at any angle. This dynamic adjustment allows users to select from an infinite number of arc patterns rather than limited discrete options, while the operation remains simple through direct rotation without requiring tool removal or complex assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The single adjustable deflector mechanism serves multiple functions by enabling continuous arc adjustment from 0 to 360 degrees, replacing the need for multiple specialized inserts or punch-outs. This universal adjustment mechanism provides both the ease of operation and the versatility of pattern selection in one integrated system.
3Area of stationary object
If multiple conventional nozzles are used to cover extended terrain, then the coverage area is increased, but the overwatering or underwatering problem worsens due to limited arc adjustability
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable arc nozzle serves multiple coverage patterns with a single device, eliminating the need for multiple specialized nozzles. By rotating the deflector to different positions, the same nozzle can provide various arc patterns (full circle, half-circle, quarter-circle, or custom angles), ensuring uniform water distribution across extended terrain without overlap or gaps.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the angular parameter of the deflector position to achieve different arc patterns. By adjusting the deflector angle continuously, the system can optimize water distribution for different terrain configurations, ensuring that each nozzle contributes optimally to the overall coverage without causing overwatering in certain areas or leaving others uncovered.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables precise control over water distribution, preventing overwatering or underwatering by allowing continuous adjustment of the arcuate coverage, ensuring uniform irrigation across varied terrain without the need for multiple nozzles or fixed patterns.
Implementation Method 1
one or more jets of water are generally directed upwardly against a rotatable deflector having a vaned lower surface defining an array of relatively small flow channels extending upwardly and turning radially outwardly with a spiral component of direction. The water jet or jets impinge upon this underside surface of the deflector to fill these curved channels and to rotatably drive the deflector.
Implementation Method 2
the water is guided by the curved channels for projection outwardly from the nozzle in the form of a plurality of relatively small water streams to irrigate a surrounding area
Data Source
AI summary
An irrigation nozzle with a rotating deflector is provided whose rotational speed may be controlled by a friction brake. The nozzle may also include an arc adjustment valve having two portions that helically engage each other to define an opening that may be adjusted at the top of the sprinkler to a desired arcuate length. The arcuate length may be adjusted by pressing down and rotating a deflector to directly actuate the valve. The nozzle may also include a radius reduction valve that may be adjusted by actuation of an outer wall of the nozzle. Rotation of the outer wall causes a flow control member to move axially to or away from an inlet.