Variable Flow Nozzles for Uniform Roadway Spraying
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spraying devices for processing floors and roadways face issues with uneven application of spraying agents over the working width, particularly at low volumes, and are prone to clogging due to thermal expansion and solidified materials, leading to reduced or blocked nozzle performance.
Innovation Solution
A controller-activated closing device system for outlet nozzles that adjusts the flow cross-section based on the position of the closing element, allowing for variable flow rates and preventing clogging, with individual or joint control of nozzles and insensitivity to temperature fluctuations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional outlet nozzles with plunger-like closing elements are used, then the nozzles can be switched on or off, but the flow rate cannot be uniformly controlled across different nozzles and the system becomes complex with additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by varying the flow cross-section of outlet nozzles through geometric adaptation between closing elements and nozzle bodies. The closing elements are designed with specific geometries (e.g., conical, cylindrical, annular) that create predetermined flow cross-sections when positioned at different locations relative to the nozzle outlet, enabling uniform spraying agent application without complex control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the flow control function by providing multiple outlet nozzles (at least two) with individually adaptable closing elements. Each nozzle-closing element pair can be independently configured to achieve uniform distribution of spraying agent across the working width, allowing selective control of individual nozzles while maintaining system simplicity
2Manufacturing precision
If ball valves, throttle valves, or iris diaphragms are used to control flow rate, then uniform application can be achieved, but the system becomes sensitive to thermal expansion and moving parts may stick together
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the problematic moving parts (ball valves, throttle valves, iris diaphragms) from the system and replaces them with a simplified closing element mechanism. The closing elements achieve flow control through geometric adaptation rather than complex valve mechanisms, eliminating sensitivity to thermal expansion and preventing sticking issues caused by solidified bitumen
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs simple, robust closing elements that can be easily replaced if needed, rather than expensive, complex valve systems. The closing elements are designed to be durable and maintenance-free, suitable for harsh operating conditions with temperatures up to 200°C and exposure to solidified bitumen
3Device complexity
If outlet nozzles are used without variable flow cross-section, then the structure is simple, but the nozzles become clogged with binder at low flow rates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic adaptability to the nozzle structure by designing closing elements that can vary the flow cross-section. The closing elements are positioned at different locations to create different flow areas, enabling the system to maintain reliable operation across a wide range of flow rates (0-1000 l/min) without becoming clogged, while keeping the overall structure simple and robust
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3a~3c
Figure 4a~6
AI summary
In a device for processing floors or roadways, comprising a machine frame (1) on which a work roller (4) is arranged in a roller housing (8), wherein at least one spray device (10) extending parallel to the work roller with several adjacent discharge nozzles (12) for spraying agent directed towards the work roller is arranged on the roller housing (8), wherein the discharge nozzles (12) each have a controllable closing device (18) with a closing element (22) which, in an open position, completely releases the nozzle channel (26) of the discharge nozzle (12) and, in a closed position, closes the nozzle channel (26), it is provided that a control unit (11) controls the closing devices (18), wherein the discharge nozzles (12) and the associated closing elements (22) are adapted to each other in such a way thatthat the flow cross-section in the outlet nozzle (12) can be varied depending on the position of the closing element (22) over a predetermined path between the open position and the closed position.