Spray Manifold Flow Switching for Tank Agitation and Clog Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing turf applicators struggle with efficiently mixing wettable powders in smaller tanks, leading to uneven application and clogging issues, as they require complex systems and significant power for mixing.
Innovation Solution
A compact manifold system that uses a single pump to divert flow between spray tips and tank agitation nozzles nearly instantly, ensuring continuous mixing and preventing clogging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mechanical rotating paddle or high flow venturi nozzles are used to mix the tank, then the product remains in constant suspension, but the system requires a large tank and significant electrical and/or mechanical power to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a hydrodynamic cavitation device that utilizes the existing pump flow to create mixing action through a venturi effect and cavitation phenomenon. The water flow itself generates the mixing force, eliminating the need for separate mechanical mixers and their associated power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The pump serves dual functions: both transporting the spray solution and mixing the tank contents. The hydrodynamic cavitation device is integrated into the pump outlet, allowing the same pump system to perform both spraying and mixing operations simultaneously.
2Productivity
If larger spray pumps are used in smaller riding turf applicators, then the ability to spray liquid solution with wettable powders is achieved, but the system requires a complex network of valves and/or multiple return lines back to the tanks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the spray outlet and tank return line into a single integrated manifold structure. The hydrodynamic cavitation device is positioned to receive pump output and simultaneously direct flow to both spray tips and tank return, eliminating the need for separate valves and multiple return lines.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold is designed with separate flow paths within a single integrated component, allowing division of pump flow to different destinations (spray tips, tank return, venturi mixing) without requiring external valve control for each path.
3Productivity
If wettable powders are used in the spray system, then the product can be applied to turf, but the powder may form a solid in the bottom of the tank, spray lines, strainer, or pump, especially if not well mixed
Solution Approach 1:
The hydrodynamic cavitation device creates intense mixing action at the point where the pump draws from the tank, preventing powder settlement before it can occur. This preliminary mixing action ensures the solution remains homogeneous as it enters the pump, preventing clogging of pump components and spray lines.
Solution Approach 2:
The hydrodynamic cavitation process creates intense localized turbulence and micro-vibration through cavitation bubble collapse, which keeps solid powder particles in suspension and prevents them from settling and forming solids in the tank bottom and pump components.
4Device complexity
If a single pump is used to both spray and mix, then the system becomes more compact, but the pump must quickly switch between sending flow to spray tips or tank agitation nozzle
Solution Approach 1:
The manifold is designed with movable or adjustable flow distribution mechanisms that can dynamically redirect pump output between spray tips and tank return based on operational needs. This dynamic flow control allows rapid switching without requiring multiple pumps or complex valve systems.
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 system allows for efficient and continuous mixing of wettable powders, preventing clogging and ensuring uniform application, even in smaller turf applicators.
Implementation Method 1
a compression spring moveable between a compressed state and an uncompressed state; where when the compression spring is in the compressed state the valve plunger is compressed to send the fluid flow from the inlet to the first outlet
Implementation Method 2
a solenoid valve to raise and lower the valve plunger
Implementation Method 3
these types of large golf course sprayers utilize a mechanical rotating paddle to mix the contents of the tanks to keep the product in constant suspension and/or they use one or more high flow venturi nozzles to mix the tank constantly
Data Source
AI summary
A manifold for use in a turf applicator spray system, the manifold includes: an inlet to receive fluid flow; a first and second outlet for directing the fluid flow; a valve plunger; a solenoid valve to raise and lower the valve plunger; a compression spring moveable between a compressed state and an uncompressed state; where when in the compressed state the valve plunger is compressed to send the fluid flow from the inlet to the first outlet and when in the uncompressed state the fluid flow is from the inlet to the second outlet.