Variable Velocity Sprinkler Transmission Eccentric Gears
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Solution Overview
Problem
Rotating sprinklers with variable rates of rotation face issues such as over-watering at movement limits, uneven water distribution, and a 'tailing' effect due to inconsistent water droplet interaction and air resistance, leading to suboptimal throw distances and localized watering patterns.
Innovation Solution
A variable-rate speed reduction drive mechanism using a series of gear modules and planetary gears with eccentrically positioned posts on carrier plates, which adjusts the rotational speed of the sprinkler head to provide a consistent water flow rate while varying the rotation rate, ensuring more even water distribution and reducing the 'tailing' effect.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the sprinkler rotates at a constant high velocity, then the water distribution covers a larger area, but the throw distance decreases due to the tailing effect
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by varying the rotational velocity of the sprinkler head throughout its rotation cycle. The drive mechanism causes the sprinkler to rotate faster at certain positions and slower at others, optimizing water distribution. Specifically, the sprinkler head rotates with a variable velocity profile that increases water coverage area while maintaining adequate throw distance by reducing rotation speed at critical moments, thereby eliminating the tailing effect that occurs at constant high velocity.
2Duration of action of moving object
If the sprinkler slows and pauses at the limits of movement, then the water distribution time at these areas increases, but over-watering occurs at these locations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating non-uniform rotational velocity at different positions of the sprinkler head. The drive mechanism is designed so that the sprinkler head moves at different speeds depending on its angular position, spending more time in areas requiring greater water coverage and less time at locations prone to over-watering. This spatially varying motion pattern ensures appropriate water distribution without excessive accumulation at any single location.
3Area of stationary object
If the sprinkler rotates faster, then the water distribution area increases, but the tailing effect increases and throw distance decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action through the oscillating motion of the sprinkler head, which periodically changes its rotational velocity. The drive mechanism creates a cyclic pattern where the sprinkler accelerates and decelerates at regular intervals, corresponding to different positions in its rotation cycle. This periodic variation in speed allows the system to cover a large distribution area over time while preventing the continuous high-speed rotation that causes tailing, thereby maintaining effective throw distance.
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 solution achieves improved water distribution by maintaining a consistent water flow rate and varying the rotation speed, reducing over-watering and tailing effects, resulting in more uniform coverage and increased throw distances across the watered area.
Implementation Method 1
The carrier plates are provided with radially extending slots and the planetary gears are provided with eccentrically positioned posts for cooperating with the slots in the carrier plates
Implementation Method 2
A variable-rate speed reduction drive mechanism is provided between the water source and the sprinkler head. The drive mechanism includes a series of gear modules, including a first gear module having a sun gear, a first carrier plate and a first set of planetary gears
Data Source
AI summary
A sprinkler having a water-driven drive mechanism or motor for rotating a sprinkler head is disclosed where the drive mechanism converts a constant input rate into a variable rate to reduce tailing from overly-rapid rotation and to promote full develop of water stream discharge profile. The drive mechanism includes continuously engaged members including one or more planet gears each having an offset or eccentrically positioned engagement portion for driving a second gear member. As the planet gear rotates, the movement of the engagement portion has a radial component relative to the second gear, and the rotational velocity of the second gear is related to the radial position of the engagement portion.