Variable Nozzle Assembly with Movable Deflector Plate
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional nozzles in irrigation systems lack the ability to dynamically control the flow characteristics and direction of fluid, such as water or fertilizers, over varying areas, limiting their efficiency and adaptability.
Innovation Solution
A variable nozzle assembly that includes a support structure, a first plate portion translationally coupled to the support, and a second plate portion fixedly coupled, with a deflector mechanism actuated by a mechanical system to adjust the opening characteristics of the nozzle, allowing for control of fluid flow by translating between different positions to alter the nozzle's area and thus the flow volume.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional nozzles are used in irrigation systems, then the structure is simple, but the ability to dynamically control flow characteristics and direction is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle incorporates a movable deflector plate that can dynamically change its position to alter flow direction and characteristics. The plate transitions from a fixed structure to a movable component actuated by a mechanical actuator, enabling real-time adjustment of fluid flow parameters without changing the basic nozzle structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The nozzle assembly integrates multiple functions into a single device: the deflector plate serves both as a flow direction controller and a flow rate regulator. By positioning the plate at different angles, the system can simultaneously control where the fluid goes and how much flows, replacing what would traditionally require separate control mechanisms.
2Measurement precision
If a variable nozzle assembly with movable deflector is added, then flow control precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system controls fluid flow by changing the angular position parameter of the deflector plate. The mechanical actuator adjusts the plate's orientation angle, which directly changes the flow characteristics. This parameter-based control approach provides precise flow regulation through a single degree of freedom adjustment rather than requiring complex multi-parameter control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The nozzle is divided into fixed and movable segments: the main nozzle body remains stationary while the deflector plate segment can independently move. This segmentation allows the control function to be isolated to a specific component, simplifying the overall control mechanism while maintaining precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the nozzle area is adjusted to control flow volume, then adaptability to different application needs is improved, but the structural complexity of the nozzle increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of changing the nozzle opening area by moving components in the flow direction (one dimension), the deflector plate utilizes angular rotation in a different dimension to control flow volume. By orienting the plate at different angles, the effective flow area is dynamically adjusted without requiring linear movement of sealing or blocking components.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to a variable nozzle assembly. In one or more implementations, the variable nozzle assembly includes a support structure for connecting to a conduit. The variable nozzle assembly also includes a first plate portion translationally coupled to the support structure and a second plate portion fixedly coupled to the support structure, where the first plate portion and the second plate portion define a nozzle. A deflector is coupled to a mechanical actuator to cause the first plate portion to translate between a first position and a second position with respect to the second plate portion to control an opening characteristic of the nozzle.