Sprinkler Head With Dual-Axis Rotation And Dampener Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sprinkler heads lack the ability to provide a highly randomized fluid distribution pattern and adequate control over the distribution process, which limits their efficiency in irrigation applications.

Innovation Solution

A sprinkler head design featuring a distribution disk that rotates on two axes, utilizing dampeners and geared teeth to control the speed and direction of rotation, allowing for both rotational and nutational movement, thereby creating a more randomized distribution pattern.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a traditional single-axis sprinkler head is used, then the structure is simple, but the fluid distribution pattern is not randomized enough and irrigation efficiency is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedistribution pattern randomnessVSAvoidsprinkler head structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dimensionality change by transitioning from a single-axis rotation system to a dual-axis rotation system. The distribution disk rotates on a first axis while simultaneously rotating on a second axis that is perpendicular to the first axis, creating a three-dimensional motion pattern that significantly randomizes fluid distribution. This dual-axis configuration directly addresses the limitation of traditional single-axis sprinklers by adding another dimension of motion without excessive structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamics by making the distribution disk capable of simultaneous rotation on two different axes, creating a dynamic and randomized fluid distribution pattern. The distribution disk is mounted to rotate on a first axis and also rotate on a second axis perpendicular to the first axis, allowing the sprinkler to adapt its distribution pattern continuously rather than following a fixed single-axis trajectory.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Productivity

If a distribution disk with two axes of rotation is implemented, then fluid distribution randomness is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveirrigation efficiencyVSAvoidaxle and housing structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the nesting principle by placing the upper axle housing inside the lower axle housing, with the upper axle housing rotating on the lower axle. This nested configuration allows the dual-axis rotation system to be compact and integrated, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining the productivity benefits of randomized fluid distribution for improved irrigation efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The distribution disk serves multiple functions: it distributes fluid through its nozzles, rotates on the first axis to create distribution patterns, and simultaneously rotates on the second axis to randomize the pattern further. This multi-functionality improves irrigation efficiency without requiring separate components for each function, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If dampeners are added to control rotation speed, then control over distribution is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverotation speed controlVSAvoiddampener mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The dampener is configured to be engaged or disengaged by the rotation of the distribution disk itself or associated components, allowing the system to self-regulate its rotation speed without requiring external control mechanisms. This self-service approach improves ease of operation by providing automatic rotation speed control while minimizing the increase in device complexity, as the dampener mechanism is integrated into the existing rotation system rather than adding separate control systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 two-axis rotation system enhances the distribution pattern randomness and control, improving irrigation efficiency by ensuring uniform water distribution and adaptability.

Implementation Method 1

The dampener is positioned within the upper axle housing such that the dampener controls the speed of rotation of the upper axle housing

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectViscous damping: Viscous Damping

Data Source

PatentUS11358162B2Sprinkler head with damper motor
Publication Date: 2022.06.14 XCAD VALVE & IRRIGATION INC
  • US11358162B2 patent drawing
  • US11358162B2 patent drawing
  • US11358162B2 patent drawing

AI summary

What is disclosed is a sprinkler head having a nozzle configured for spraying a fluid, such as irrigation water, at a distribution disk. The distribution disk is configured to rotate on an upper axle. The upper axle is housed within an upper axle housing. The upper axle housing is configured to rotate about a lower axle. The dual axle provides for two different rotation axles of the distribution disk in operation. Preferably a speed control device can be positioned to control the speed of rotation of one axle or both axles.