Valved Drip Coupling With Floating Restrictor for Emitter Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Drip irrigation systems face issues with secure connections between feeder lines and emitters, leading to uncoupling due to water pressure or user manipulation, and lack of individual emitter control without affecting adjacent emitters.
Innovation Solution
A valved coupling with a floating flow restrictor and adjustable set screw allows selective control of water flow to individual emitters, maintaining secure connections and independent operation without disrupting adjacent emitters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the feeder line is inserted directly into the rigid emitter aperture and held by friction, then the connection structure is simple, but the connection security deteriorates and emitters can be easily uncoupled due to water pressure or user manipulation
Solution Approach 1:
A rigid coupling body serves as an intermediary component between the flexible feeder line and the rigid emitter. The coupling body includes a barbed main port that securely engages the feeder line and a separate outlet that connects to the emitter, preventing direct insertion and providing a stable, pressure-resistant connection interface
Solution Approach 2:
The barbed ports feature curved, circumferential ridges that create a mechanical interlock with the feeder line. The barbed structure with its curved engagement surfaces provides a secure friction fit that resists disconnection from water pressure and user manipulation
2Device complexity
If all emitters are connected in line without individual control, then the system structure is simple, but the adaptability deteriorates and individual emitter flow cannot be selectively controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The irrigation system is segmented into independently controllable units by placing a valve within each coupling body. Each coupling body with its integrated valve acts as an independent control module, allowing individual emitters to be selectively opened or closed while maintaining connections to adjacent emitters through the same feeder line
Solution Approach 2:
The valve is merged with the coupling body structure, combining the flow control function and the mechanical connection function into a single integrated component. This integration allows individual emitter control without adding separate external valve assemblies that would increase system complexity
3Adaptability or versatility
If a valve is integrated into each coupling body for individual emitter control, then the adaptability improves and selective flow control is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve is integrated directly into the coupling body structure, merging the flow control function with the mechanical connection function. This integration eliminates the need for separate external valve assemblies and reduces the overall number of discrete components in the system
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling body is designed as a universal component that simultaneously provides mechanical connection (barbed ports for feeder line engagement), flow control (integrated valve mechanism), and structural support. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized 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 customized watering profiles for individual emitters, ensuring secure connections and independent flow control, suitable for gardens with varying plant water needs.
Implementation Method 1
The floating flow restrictor is designed to float within the cavity below the concave bowl in response to fluid entering the cavity
Implementation Method 2
the extension is configured to frictionally engage a receiving aperture formed in the drip emitter or drip head
Data Source
AI summary
A valved coupling for use in a drip irrigation line includes a body having a top end and an open lower end. A main port is formed as part of the body. A cup engaged to the open lower end of the body forms the outlet. The body may be formed as a T-body have two ports or may be formed as an elbow body having only one port. A means for restricting the flow from the main port to the outlet is enclosed with the valved coupling. The flow restriction means includes a floating flow restrictor enclosed within a cavity formed by an insert contained within the cup and the body. As fluid flows into the cavity through the insert, the floating flow restrictor floats off the bottom surface of the cup thereby opening flow paths to the outlet.