3D-Printed Variable Pattern Nozzle With Tangential Water Mixing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing water nozzles lack the ability to produce a variable water pattern efficiently and aesthetically, with many requiring multiple components and assembly, and lacking advanced lighting and customization options.
Innovation Solution
A monolithic 3-D printed nozzle assembly that integrates translucent sections to mix streams of water with rotational flow, allowing variable patterns and lighting effects, formed as a single piece without adhesives or fasteners, and customizable with interchangeable tips and lighting configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If traditional multi-component nozzles are used, then assembly and manufacturing complexity increases, but the nozzle can achieve variable water patterns. If a monolithic 3-D printed nozzle is used, then assembly complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision and structural complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple nozzle components (body, internal passages, external features) into a single monolithic structure manufactured by 3-D printing. This eliminates the need for assembly of multiple parts while achieving the desired variable water pattern functionality through integrated internal geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes 3-D printing technology to achieve complex internal geometries and variable wall thicknesses that would be difficult or impossible to manufacture with traditional methods. The additive manufacturing process allows for precise control of material deposition parameters to create the required internal passages and external features in a single piece.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional nozzles are used, then manufacturing cost may be lower for simple designs, but customization and aesthetic options are limited. If 3-D printed nozzles are used, then customization and aesthetics are enhanced, but manufacturing cost increases for complex geometries
Solution Approach 1:
The monolithic nozzle design integrates multiple functions (water flow control, pattern variation, aesthetic features, lighting integration) into a single component. This universal design allows the same basic structure to be customized for different applications by modifying the 3-D printing parameters and external features rather than creating entirely different components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different material properties and surface finishes to different regions of the nozzle through selective 3-D printing parameters. Translucent sections can be printed with different opacity levels, and surface textures can be varied locally to achieve desired aesthetic effects and functional properties in specific areas.
3Illumination intensity
If translucent materials are used in 3-D printed nozzles, then aesthetic and lighting effects are improved, but material strength and durability may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes translucent plastic materials that combine optical transparency with structural integrity. These composite-like materials allow light transmission for aesthetic and lighting effects while maintaining sufficient strength for water flow applications. The 3-D printing process can vary material density and composition to optimize both optical and mechanical properties.
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 cost-effective production of variable water patterns with enhanced aesthetics and entertainment value, offering customizable sizes, materials, and lighting options, improving efficiency and reducing assembly complexity.
Implementation Method 1
The translucent tangential injector portion defines at least one passageway. The translucent tangential injector portion receives a second stream of water and directs the second stream of water to rotate about a rotational axis using the passageway(s)
Implementation Method 2
The second translucent hollow section portion receives the linear stream of water from the first hollow cylindrical section portion and the second stream of water rotating about the rotational axis from the tangential injector portion, such that the rotational axis is other than perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. This provides a third stream of water formed from the first and second streams of water.
Data Source
AI summary
A monolithic 3-D printed nozzle assembly that produces a variable water pattern includes a first translucent hollow section portion that receives a first stream of water and provides a linear stream of water moving along a longitudinal axis of the first section. A translucent tangential injector portion integrally formed with the first section defines at least one passageway. The injector portion receives a second stream of water and directs it to rotate about a rotational axis using the passageway(s). A second translucent hollow section portion integrally extends from the first section and receives the linear stream of water from the first section and the second stream of water rotating about the rotational axis from the tangential injector, providing a third stream of water formed therefrom. A third translucent hollow section portion integrally extends from the second section and receives the third stream of water, directing it to an exterior environment.