Switcher Nozzle Flow Insert for Counterforce-Free Traction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traction nozzles used in sewer pipes face a counterforce issue due to forward-directed jet tips, reducing the net pulling force, and require a simplified switching mechanism and nozzle assembly for efficient operation and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A nozzle assembly with a switching valve assembly that can be replaced by a flow insert, allowing for efficient fluid flow without the need for high-pressure resistance, comprising a cylindrical nozzle body, inlet nut, and a removable flow insert that directs fluid to ports without withstanding operating pressures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If forward directed jet tips are used in the nozzle, then the nozzle can effectively clean obstructions, but a counterforce is generated that hinders hose deployment and reduces net pulling force
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle is divided into separate functional sections: a traction section with rearward-oriented jets for pulling, and a cleaning section with forward-oriented jets for obstruction removal. This segmentation allows each section to optimize its function without compromising the other, resolving the contradiction between cleaning effectiveness and pulling force.
Solution Approach 2:
The nozzle incorporates a switching mechanism that dynamically changes the orientation of jet tips between forward-directed (for cleaning) and rearward-directed (for traction) configurations. This dynamic adjustment allows the nozzle to adapt its jet orientation based on operational needs, eliminating counterforce during traction while maintaining cleaning effectiveness when required.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a switching valve assembly is incorporated to enable both traction and cleaning modes, then operational versatility is improved, but device complexity and maintenance difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The switching valve assembly serves multiple functions: it acts as a flow distributor directing fluid to different jet sections, a switching mechanism for mode changes, and a sealing component. By combining these functions into a single multi-functional component, the design achieves operational versatility while minimizing the number of separate parts and simplifying maintenance.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a switching valve assembly with multiple components is used, then switching functionality is achieved, but manufacturing complexity and assembly difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The switching valve assembly is designed as an integrated unit where the valve body, valve elements, and sealing components are merged into a single manufacturable part or pre-assembled module. This merging reduces the total number of discrete components, simplifies manufacturing processes, and facilitates easier assembly into the nozzle while maintaining full switching capability between traction and cleaning modes.
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 enhances the net pulling force and operational efficiency by eliminating counterforces during traction and simplifying maintenance, while allowing for effective fluid jet operation during cleaning, with a design that minimizes component parts and facilitates easy assembly and disassembly.
Implementation Method 1
a switching valve assembly removably captured within at least a rear portion of the central bore of the nozzle body... the hollow nozzle body is configured to withstand an operating pressure of greater than 345 bar (5000 psi)
Implementation Method 2
a generally cylindrical flow insert removably disposed in the central bore between the inlet nut and at least the rear portion of the nozzle body... the insert having a plurality of through passages configured to communicate with the ports
Implementation Method 3
These traction nozzles have jet tips oriented at an angle rearward in order to generate thrust in the nozzle within the pipe to assist in pulling the hose through and along long stretches of pipe
Implementation Method 4
These nozzles have forward directed jet tips and may also have laterally directed tips to ablate the obstructions encountered
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A nozzle assembly includes a hollow nozzle body having a central bore and a plurality of ports extending through the body from the central bore; a switching valve assembly disposed in the central bore that directs fluid flow to ports upon application of fluid flow above a predetermined threshold to the inlet and direct fluid flow to different ports upon fluid flow having subsequently dropped below the predetermined threshold and then exceeding the predetermined threshold; and a flow insert configured to replace the switching valve assembly for directing flow through all of the ports when switching functionality is not needed. This flow insert may be made of a low pressure material such as a polymer.