Spa Nozzle Inertance Loop Assembly for Adjustable Spray Frequency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluidic oscillator nozzles for hot tubs and spas are limited by fixed operating frequencies, require complex adjustments, and face challenges in optimizing operating conditions due to temperature and pressure relationships, with high manufacturing costs and design complexity.
Innovation Solution
A nozzle assembly with variable cross-section inertance loops that adjust frequency without moving parts, utilizing a housing with integrated fluidic oscillator circuits and tubing configurations that vary in cross-sectional area and length to optimize oscillation frequency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If fixed frequency fluidic oscillator is used, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but adaptability to different operating conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the inertance loop cross-sectional area variable rather than fixed. The tubing transitions from a constant diameter section to a variable diameter section, allowing the system to dynamically adapt its inertance characteristics. This enables the same physical structure to operate at different frequencies by changing the effective cross-sectional area of the inertance loop, thus achieving adaptability without requiring multiple fixed-frequency nozzles or complex adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the cross-sectional area parameter of the inertance loop tubing. By varying the diameter of the tubing along its length, the system changes its inertance characteristics. This parameter modification allows the fluidic oscillator to operate at different frequencies under different operating conditions, providing versatility while maintaining a single manufacturing process.
2Productivity
If inertance loop cross-sectional area is increased, then oscillation frequency is reduced, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by concentrating the variable cross-sectional area feature at specific locations within the inertance loop rather than uniformly throughout. The tubing has a constant diameter section followed by a variable diameter section, creating localized regions of different inertance. This allows the system to achieve the desired frequency characteristics without requiring the entire inertance loop to have large cross-sectional area, thus minimizing the overall device size while maintaining control over oscillation frequency.
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
The nozzle assembly achieves adjustable frequency outputs within compact packaging, reducing manufacturing costs and design complexity while maintaining control over oscillation characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
A nozzle assembly with variable cross-section inertance loops that adjust frequency without moving parts, utilizing a housing with integrated fluidic oscillator circuits and tubing configurations that vary in cross-sectional area and length to optimize oscillation frequency.
Data Source
AI summary
A fluidic geometry, chip, and nozzle assembly capable of providing multiple oscillation frequencies without the need for moving parts is contemplated. A fluidic circuit having feedback loops with differing cross-sectional areas will allow for output of oscillating sprays having different frequencies based upon fluid pressure.