Sprinkler Nozzle Assembly with Axial Distributor for Adjustable Arc
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sprinkler head nozzle assemblies are complex and costly to manufacture due to the water distribution, nozzle, and flow adjustment sub-assemblies popping up during operation and returning after the water source is turned off, which complicates their design and production.
Innovation Solution
A sprinkler head nozzle assembly with a two-part nozzle structure and a rotating distributor that is axially movable from a closed to an open position, featuring an adjustable arcuate opening and a flow control element to adjust the arc of coverage and water flow, with only the distributor and shaft moving up and down, simplifying the design and reducing manufacturing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the water distribution sub-assembly, nozzle sub-assembly and flow adjustment sub-assembly all pop up during operation and return after water source is turned off, then the sprinkler can provide adjustable arc and flow rate, but the assembly becomes complicated and costly to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the sprinkler assembly into distinct functional segments: a stationary base containing the flow adjustment sub-assembly and arc adjustment sub-assembly, and a movable distributor component. This segmentation allows the complex flow and arc adjustment mechanisms to remain stationary while only the distributor moves, reducing overall assembly complexity while maintaining adjustability features
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic adjustment capabilities through the movable distributor that can be positioned at different arc settings, while the flow adjustment sub-assembly provides dynamic flow rate control through a movable flow adjustment member. This dynamic design allows the sprinkler to adapt to different operational requirements without requiring all components to move during operation
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sub-assemblies pop up and return during operation, then the sprinkler provides adjustable coverage, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the assembly into a stationary base with embedded adjustment mechanisms and a separate movable distributor, the patent reduces manufacturing complexity. The stationary components can be manufactured and assembled independently, then the distributor is attached, simplifying the overall manufacturing process while maintaining adjustable coverage capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses standardized components and repetitive structural elements in the base assembly, such as the arc adjustment slots and flow adjustment features, which can be manufactured using copying processes or modular assembly techniques, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining functional versatility
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 solution allows for reliable operation with adjustable arc of coverage and flow control, while minimizing the number of moving parts, thus enhancing the assembly's simplicity and reducing production costs, and ensuring water conservation by protecting the distributor from mechanical damage when not in use.
Implementation Method 1
a rotating distributor that is movable in an axial direction from a closed position to an open position during operation
Data Source
AI summary
A sprinkler head nozzle assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention includes an adjustable nozzle operable to extend and reduce an arcuate opening 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 nozzle member, and operable to deflect a flow of water from the arcuate opening out of the nozzle assembly.