Pop-up Sprinkler Hall-Effect Sensor for Remote Rotation Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Pop-up irrigation rotor sprinklers often malfunction due to wear or debris, requiring manual observation to ensure proper operation, which is inefficient for large facilities like golf courses.
Innovation Solution
A rotary sprinkler with a Hall-effect sensor system that detects the position and rotation of the sprinkler nozzle assembly using magnets, providing electrical signals for direction and speed of rotation, which can be wirelessly or wired to a central control station for monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual observation is used to monitor sprinkler operation, then operators can verify proper functioning, but it requires significant time and effort to travel throughout large facilities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical manual observation system with an electronic sensing and communication system. Hall-effect sensors detect the position and rotation of sprinkler components, converting mechanical motion into electrical signals that are transmitted to a central monitoring station, eliminating the need for operator travel
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces electronic intermediaries (sensors, signal transmission systems, and central monitoring equipment) between the sprinkler components and the operator. These intermediaries automatically capture and relay operational data, allowing remote monitoring without direct physical presence
2Reliability
If direct observation by operators is required to detect sprinkler malfunctions, then proper operation can be confirmed, but it reduces productivity for large-scale facilities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the sprinkler system to self-monitor its own operational status through integrated sensors that automatically detect position, rotation, and potential malfunctions, eliminating the need for external manual inspection and thereby improving overall system productivity
3Device complexity
If simple sensor systems are used to detect sprinkler position, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision of rotation and direction may be insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes changes in magnetic field parameters (strength, direction, position) as the sprinkler components move, allowing precise detection of position and rotation through electrical signal variations without complex mechanical sensing mechanisms
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 automatic and accurate indication of sprinkler operation, allowing operators to monitor multiple units remotely without physical presence, reducing manual inspection time and improving system reliability.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor unit comprising a Hall-effect sensor is mounted adjacent to the nozzle assembly for detecting the first magnetic field when the nozzle assembly is rotating
Data Source
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AI summary
An irrigation sprinkler (10) is for use in distributing water to an area of vegetation, and has a rotatable nozzle (16,26) for dispersing the water by rotation of the nozzle (16,26). A magnet (50) is coupled or connected to the nozzle (16,26) and rotates synchronously with the rotation of the nozzle. A sensor unit (30) is disposed adjacent to the nozzle and detects a magnetic field generated by the magnet during nozzle rotation to generate a signal indicative of the speed and direction of rotation of the nozzle.