Sprayer Lid Concavity for Liquid Guidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing agricultural field sprayers face issues where plant treatment agents and fertilizers spilled onto the upward-pointing side of the lid do not safely flow into the induction bowl, leading to inefficiencies in the metered application process.
Innovation Solution
The lid is designed to pivot approximately 170°, with an adjustable stop device to secure it in the open position, and features such as increased lateral surfaces, a concave top surface, and a U-shaped edge to guide liquids into the induction bowl, ensuring they flow into the bowl without spilling, and a drip edge for a closed seal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the lid is designed with a simple flat top surface, then the manufacturing is simple, but the liquid cannot be safely guided into the induction bowl
Solution Approach 1:
The top surface of the lid is designed with a concave curvature that slopes downward toward the filling opening. This curved surface automatically guides liquid toward the induction bowl through gravity, eliminating the need for complex channels or grooves while ensuring reliable liquid guidance.
Solution Approach 2:
The lid extends beyond the outer upper edge of the induction bowl in the direction of the filling opening, creating a three-dimensional overflow protection structure. This additional dimensional extension ensures that liquid cannot spill over the sides even when the bowl is full.
2Ease of operation
If the lid is made to pivot fully open, then the filling access is maximized, but the lid cannot be securely held in position
Solution Approach 1:
The lid is designed with a pivotable connection that allows dynamic movement between closed and open positions. An adjustable stop device provides controlled positioning, allowing the lid to be securely held in either the closed position or an open position that provides adequate filling access while maintaining stability.
3Reliability
If the lid is extended beyond the bowl edge, then liquid overflow is prevented, but the seal capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function is segmented from the main lid body and implemented as a separate seal element arranged between the lid and the induction bowl. This separate seal component can be independently optimized and installed, simplifying the overall manufacturing process while maintaining both overflow protection and sealing capabilities.
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
This design ensures that liquids on the lid's upper surface safely enter the induction bowl, preventing spills and ensuring efficient filling and mixing with the dilution liquid, enhancing the metered application of plant treatment agents and fertilizers.
Implementation Method 1
the surface of the lid pointing upwards inclines in the direction of the filling opening of the induction bowl
Data Source
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AI summary
An agricultural field sprayer for the metered application of plant protection products and/or fertilizers diluted to form a spray solution with a diluent, preferably fresh water, comprising a spray agent tank, at least one induction hopper with at least one diluent supply device, and at least one filling opening. The induction hopper is equipped with a lid that is preferably pivotable, either into an open position that releases the filling opening or into a closed position that closes the inlet opening. To ensure that the liquids entering the induction hopper are reliably drawn onto the upward-facing side of the lid, the lid is inclined towards the filling opening when it is in the open position that releases the plant protection products and/or fertilizers.