Sprinkler Service Valve with Local Isolation for In-Place Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing irrigation systems require shutting off a remotely located main valve for maintenance of sprinklers, which disrupts the operation of other irrigation devices on the same branch line, and there is a need for a service valve at the sprinkler to facilitate servicing without affecting the entire system.
Innovation Solution
A service valve integrated with the sprinkler that allows for independent maintenance of sub-systems, including the control valve, by providing an ON/OFF/AUTO control feature and enabling isolation of the sprinkler from the main valve, allowing for servicing without shutting off the upstream service valve, utilizing a worm gear and helical gear mechanism to operate a butterfly or ball valve for flow control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a remotely located main valve is used to control irrigation zones, then the entire branch line can be controlled from a central location, but maintenance of individual sprinklers requires shutting off the main valve which disrupts operation of other devices on the same branch line
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the irrigation control system into segmented zones by providing each sprinkler with its own service valve integrated into the housing. This allows individual sprinklers or small groups to be isolated for maintenance while other parts of the system continue operating, eliminating the need to shut off the entire branch line through a remote main valve.
Solution Approach 2:
The service valve acts as an intermediary component between the main valve and the sprinkler components. It provides a local control point that mediates water flow to the sprinkler, enabling maintenance operations without affecting upstream main valve control or downstream sprinkler performance.
2Ease of repair
If the control valve is integrated with the sprinkler in the housing, then the valve can be serviced locally, but there is no service valve at the sprinkler to isolate it from the main valve for maintenance of sub-systems
Solution Approach 1:
The service valve is merged with the sprinkler housing to create an integrated assembly. The service valve, control valve, and sprinkler components are combined in a single housing structure, allowing local servicing of all sub-systems without requiring separate remote valves or complex external piping configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated service valve provides multiple functions: it serves as both a service isolation valve for maintenance of control valve and sprinkler components, and as a functional control valve for regulating water flow to the sprinkler. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate service and control valves.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a service valve is integrated at the sprinkler with ON/OFF/AUTO control, then maintenance can be performed without shutting off the main valve, but the device complexity increases with additional control features
Solution Approach 1:
The service valve incorporates dynamic control capabilities with ON/OFF/AUTO positions that allow flexible operation modes. The valve can be manually positioned for maintenance isolation or set to AUTO mode to operate with the irrigation controller, providing adaptability without requiring complex external control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated service valve enables self-service maintenance capabilities by providing local control and isolation functions at the sprinkler location. Operators can perform maintenance on control valves and other components without requiring external assistance or system-wide shutdowns, as the service valve provides all necessary isolation and control functions locally.
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a service valve for use at an irrigation sprinkler. The service valve enables water flow into the sprinkler to be controlled from above a buried irrigation sprinkler. The service valve enables maintenance of internal components of the sprinkler without having to turn off a service valve that is remotely located from the sprinkler.