Sprinkler Riser Rotational Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Residential irrigation sprinklers without a memory arc mechanism are prone to damage from inadvertent rotation when in the popped-down position, caused by factors like pedestrian traffic or lawn mower wheels, leading to changes in the watering arc and damage to internal transmission mechanisms, despite the belief that vandalism only occurs when the sprinkler is operational and popped up.
Innovation Solution
A rotational locking mechanism is introduced that engages when the sprinkler is in its lowered position, utilizing friction-generating features such as raised elements or O-rings between sprinkler components to prevent rotation, thereby maintaining the watering arc settings and protecting internal mechanisms from damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a memory arc mechanism is added to protect against forced rotation, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases and manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the rotational protection function from the complex memory arc mechanism and implements it through a simple frangible connection between the riser and nozzle base. This frangible connection releases upon forced rotation, providing protection without requiring the complex transmission mechanisms of commercial memory arc sprinklers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a frangible connection that is designed to fail under excessive force, acting as a sacrificial element. This simple, replaceable connection provides protection at minimal cost compared to complex memory arc mechanisms, aligning with the principle of using inexpensive protective elements.
2Reliability
If a memory arc mechanism is added to protect against forced rotation, then reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the expensive memory arc mechanism and extracts only the essential protection function, implementing it through a simple frangible connection that can be manufactured at minimal cost while providing the necessary reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The frangible connection serves as a low-cost, sacrificial element that protects the expensive internal mechanisms. This approach follows the principle of using inexpensive protective components to safeguard more valuable system elements.
3Ease of operation
If the sprinkler allows free rotation during operation, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to inadvertent rotation damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic protection system where the frangible connection remains engaged during normal operation, allowing free rotation for irrigation. Upon detecting excessive force through connection failure, the system transitions to a protected state, preventing damage to internal mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The frangible connection is pre-configured to fail before internal mechanisms can be damaged by forced rotation. This preliminary protective action occurs at the connection point, preventing the harmful effect from reaching the vulnerable internal components.
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 mechanism effectively prevents accidental rotation and adjustment of the watering arc, reducing damage to the sprinkler's internal components and maintaining the intended watering pattern, even when the sprinkler is not in use, without the need for a complex memory arc mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
one or more of the surfaces also include friction generating features, such as material that tends to 'grab' opposing surfaces of the interface or elevated bumps, ridges, or similar raised elements
Data Source
AI summary
A mechanism is described to resist or prevent rotation of portions of an irrigation sprinkler riser when in its lowered or popped-down position. Hence, when a pedestrian walks over a lowered sprinkler or a lawn mower rolls over a sprinkler, for example, the riser will remain fixed in its rotational orientation relative to its outer body and surroundings. By resisting or preventing this rotation, this rotational locking mechanism prevents damage to the internal transmission, gears, and arc trip mechanisms of the sprinkler, as well as prevents the watering arc from being accidentally adjusted.