Sprinkler Nozzle Assembly with Adjustable Arc and Throttling Valve
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sprinkler head nozzle assemblies require multiple units to achieve various arc of coverage ranges, leading to inefficiencies and increased complexity, as they lack the ability to adjust flow rate and stream angle uniformly across different settings.
Innovation Solution
A sprinkler head nozzle assembly with a rotating distributor and viscous brake assembly, featuring an adjustable arcuate opening and upstream throttling valve, which allows for adjustable arc of coverage, flow rate, and stream angle, using a single design by varying the arcuate opening and throttling to maintain uniform precipitation rates across different settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different sprinkler nozzle assemblies are provided to cover different arc of coverage ranges, then the full range of arc of coverage can be achieved, but the device complexity and inventory requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single nozzle assembly that can perform multiple functions across different arc of coverage ranges (90 to 360 degrees). The assembly includes an arc adjustment ring with a slot that can be positioned at different angles, allowing the same basic structure to cover various spray patterns without requiring multiple specialized units.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics through adjustable components that allow the nozzle assembly to change its configuration. The arc adjustment ring can be rotated to different positions, and the stream elevation can be adjusted independently, enabling the system to adapt to different operational requirements dynamically rather than being fixed for a single function.
2Ease of operation
If the arc of coverage is adjusted without proportional flow throttling, then the arc setting can be changed, but the precipitation rate becomes non-uniform across different arc settings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback through a proportional throttling mechanism that automatically adjusts the flow rate based on the arc setting. When the arc adjustment ring is positioned to change the coverage angle, the throttling valve responds proportionally to maintain consistent precipitation rates, creating a closed-loop control system that ensures uniformity across different settings.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by coordinating adjustments in both the arc of coverage and the flow rate. The system changes multiple parameters simultaneously - the angular position of the arc adjustment ring and the opening of the throttling valve - to maintain constant precipitation rate despite changes in coverage area.
3Device complexity
If a single nozzle assembly design is used for all arc settings, then inventory is reduced, but the ability to maintain uniform precipitation rates across different settings becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves universality by incorporating multiple adjustment mechanisms within a single nozzle assembly design. The arc adjustment ring, slot positioning system, and proportional throttling valve work together to enable one assembly to maintain precise precipitation rates across all arc settings from 90 to 360 degrees, eliminating the need for multiple specialized units.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service through the proportional throttling mechanism that automatically compensates for changes in arc setting. When the user adjusts the arc of coverage, the throttling system self-adjusts the flow rate proportionally to maintain uniform precipitation rates without requiring manual intervention or calibration for each setting.
4Productivity
If the stream rotor speed increases with higher flow rates, then more water can be distributed, but the distribution precision and coverage uniformity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the stream rotor speed adjustable through viscous damping. The rotor can operate at different speeds depending on the flow rate, and the viscous damping mechanism allows precise control of the rotor speed to maintain uniform distribution even at higher flow rates, preventing the deterioration of coverage uniformity.
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 flexible adjustment of arc of coverage, flow rate, and stream angle in a single nozzle assembly, reducing the need for multiple units and ensuring consistent precipitation rates across a wide range of settings, enhancing usability and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a viscous brake assembly, featuring an adjustable arcuate opening and upstream throttling valve
Data Source
AI summary
A sprinkler head nozzle assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention includes a housing including an inlet for pressurize water and an outlet downstream of the inlet, a valve member, operable to extend and reduce an arcuate opening at the outlet of the housing, wherein the size of the arcuate opening indicates the arc of coverage of the sprinkler head nozzle assembly and a rotating distributor, mounted on a central shaft extending through the housing and the valve member, and operable to deflect a flow of water from the arcuate opening out of the nozzle assembly.