Sprinkler Valve Test Device Using External Magnet Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for testing and controlling sprinkler valves in irrigation systems are time-consuming and require disassembly or disconnection of electrical connections, making it difficult to determine the source of malfunctions efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A device using a high-energy magnet to externally actuate the plunger in the solenoid of a sprinkler valve without electricity, allowing for remote operation and testing without disassembly or wiring disconnection, featuring a cup-shaped steel yoke with a sealed neodymium magnet and epoxy fill for secure and controlled magnetic field application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional electrical testing methods are used to test sprinkler valve functionality, then the valve can be tested for electrical operation, but the process requires disassembly of electrical connections and becomes inconclusive when the valve itself is faulty
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the electrical components (wires, solenoid) from the testing process by using a permanent magnet to directly actuate the plunger mechanically. This eliminates the need to connect or disconnect electrical wires, allowing direct mechanical testing of the valve assembly while the valve remains installed in the irrigation system.
Solution Approach 2:
The permanent magnet serves as an intermediary tool that transfers magnetic force to the plunger without requiring electrical connection. The magnet temporarily interacts with the plunger to test its movement, then is removed, providing a clean mechanical testing method that doesn't require disassembly of electrical connections.
2Reliability
If the sprinkler valve is tested with an alternate power source, then electrical functionality can be verified, but it becomes inconclusive whether the problem lies with the electrical wiring, solenoid, plunger or diaphragm
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes electrical components from the diagnostic process by using direct mechanical actuation via permanent magnet. This isolates the mechanical components (plunger, diaphragm, valve body) for testing without involving electrical wiring or solenoid, providing conclusive diagnostic information about mechanical functionality in a single test.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using electrical power to test mechanical components (traditional approach), the invention inverts the approach by using magnetic mechanical force to test the valve assembly. This reverse methodology directly tests the mechanical operation of the plunger and diaphragm without requiring electrical system involvement.
3Measurement precision
If the sprinkler valve must be completely disassembled to determine the malfunction source, then the exact problem can be identified, but the process becomes extremely time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The permanent magnet testing device enables the valve assembly to self-diagnose its mechanical functionality while remaining installed in the system. The plunger, diaphragm, and valve body test themselves through direct magnetic actuation without requiring external disassembly or complex diagnostic procedures, providing quick and accurate fault identification.
Solution Approach 2:
The permanent magnet acts as an intermediary diagnostic tool that interfaces with the plunger to test the entire mechanical valve assembly in place. This single intermediary tool provides comprehensive diagnostic information about plunger movement, diaphragm function, and valve operation without requiring physical disassembly of any 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
Enables efficient and effective determination of sprinkler valve malfunctions and operation without electricity, allowing for remote watering and separating electrical and plumbing issues from valve problems, reducing the need for disassembly and wiring manipulation.
Implementation Method 1
The device utilizes a high energy magnet to externally actuate the plunger in the solenoid of a sprinkler valve without the need for electricity
Implementation Method 2
The magnet may be substantially cylindrical in shape with an end that concentrates the magnetic field towards the solenoid
Data Source
AI summary
A sprinkler valve test and control device that is used to test and control a sprinkler valve having a solenoid plunger without the need for electricity. The sprinkler valve test and control device includes a cup shaped yoke body having a cavity and an opening, a magnet positioned in the cavity, and the magnetic having a magnetic field directed towards the opening of the cavity, and an epoxy fill sealing and securing the magnet in the cavity. When the device is placed over a solenoid plunger, the magnetic field actuates the solenoid plunger of the sprinkler valve to turn the sprinkler valve on. The device allows efficient and effective determination of the reasons for the malfunctioning of sprinkler valves.