Turbine-Powered Timer Valve for Remote Irrigation Scheduling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing water valves lack programmability, require electrical connections or batteries, and need manual operation, limiting their use in remote areas without electrical service or extensive maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A self-energized programmable timer control valve system using a mechanical clock with hour and minute dials, powered by a turbine apparatus that converts water flow energy, eliminating the need for batteries or electrical connections and allowing remote operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If electrical solenoid-controlled valves are used for programmable control, then programmability is improved, but electrical wiring and extensive pipelines are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electrical solenoid control with a purely mechanical timing mechanism. A clockwork timer with gears, cams, and a mainspring provides programmable control without any electrical components. The mechanical timer directly actuates the valve through cam-follower mechanisms, eliminating the need for electrical wiring while maintaining automated scheduling capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve system is self-powered through a turbine mechanism that uses the water flow itself to wind the mainspring of the clockwork timer. This self-energizing feature eliminates external power sources and reduces dependency on extensive infrastructure, allowing the system to serve itself by converting the energy already present in the water flow.
2Adaptability or versatility
If battery-powered valves are used for remote operation, then electrical connection requirements are reduced, but batteries must be changed frequently due to high energy consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The system eliminates batteries entirely by using a self-energizing turbine mechanism. The turbine is driven by the water flow passing through the valve, and it directly winds the mainspring of the clockwork timer. This converts the kinetic energy of the water flow into stored mechanical energy, allowing the valve to operate indefinitely without external power sources or battery replacements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the hydraulic energy of the water flow to power the turbine mechanism. The flowing water drives the turbine blades, which convert hydraulic kinetic energy into rotational mechanical energy to wind the mainspring. This hydraulic power conversion enables remote operation without batteries by harnessing the energy already present in the water supply.
3Device complexity
If mechanical countdown valves are used to avoid electrical wiring, then electrical connection requirements are eliminated, but manual operation is required each time watering is desired
Solution Approach 1:
The clockwork timer is pre-programmed by setting the cam mechanisms to activate the valve at predetermined times and durations. Once set, the timer automatically executes the watering schedule without requiring manual intervention. The preliminary setting of the mechanical timer eliminates the need for repeated manual operation while maintaining simple mechanical construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic cam mechanisms that can be adjusted to create different timing patterns and valve activation sequences. The cams are positioned to engage followers at specific intervals, automatically controlling valve opening and closing times. This dynamic mechanical timing system provides programmable automation while maintaining mechanical simplicity and eliminating manual operation requirements.
4Adaptability or versatility
If programmable valves are used for remote locations without electrical service, then remote operation capability is improved, but extensive infrastructure development is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces all electrical infrastructure requirements with a purely mechanical system. The clockwork timer, cam mechanisms, and valve actuation are entirely mechanical, eliminating the need for electrical service, wiring, or power distribution infrastructure. This mechanical substitution enables deployment in remote locations without requiring electrical grid connection or extensive infrastructure development.
Solution Approach 2:
The turbine-powered clockwork mechanism makes the system self-sufficient by using its own water flow to generate the energy needed for operation. This self-energizing capability eliminates dependency on external power infrastructure, allowing the valve to operate autonomously in remote locations without electrical service or extensive pipeline modifications.
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 system provides a cost-effective, low-maintenance solution for controlling water flow in remote areas, reducing human intervention and energy consumption while ensuring reliable operation.
Implementation Method 1
an energizer apparatus connected to the clock apparatus by a second connecting apparatus and which energizer apparatus performs a mechanical energizing function that provides mechanical energy to the clock apparatus
Data Source
AI summary
A self-energized programmable timer valve is provided in embodiments of this invention that can be used in watering and other systems, such as lawn watering systems and agricultural watering systems. The invention provides one or more components that serve the functions of a clock, a valve and an energizer (e.g., turbine) (i.e., a clock function, a valve function, and an energizing and/or turbine function) to control the flow of media (e.g., water) through the valve.