Vortex Disruptor Layout for Quiet Shallow-Water Liquid Circulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid circulators face issues such as reduced effectiveness and loud slurping/slapping sounds when positioned too close to the water surface, and excessive debris movement or dredging when positioned too close to the bottom, necessitating a solution to optimize operation and minimize noise and debris disturbance.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of a vortex disruptor, such as a buoy or plate, attached to the liquid circulator to disrupt the vortex created by the propeller, allowing operation closer to the water surface while minimizing noise and debris disturbance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the circulation assembly is positioned too close to the water surface, then the circulation effectiveness is improved, but loud slurping/slapping sounds are created and vortex is generated
Solution Approach 1:
A vortex disruptor is introduced as an intermediary component between the circulation assembly and the water surface. This disruptor breaks up the vortex formation and eliminates the slurping/slapping sounds while allowing the circulation assembly to operate close to the surface for maximum circulation effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The vortex that previously caused harmful sounds is converted into a beneficial controlled flow pattern. The vortex disruptor transforms the harmful vortex energy into a more manageable flow that maintains circulation effectiveness while eliminating noise.
2Productivity
If the circulation assembly is positioned too close to the water surface, then circulation effectiveness is improved, but vortex is created reducing flow effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The vortex disruptor serves as a mediator that allows the circulation assembly to be positioned close to the surface for maximum circulation effectiveness while simultaneously breaking up vortices to maintain flow effectiveness and prevent reduction in performance.
3Productivity
If the circulation assembly is positioned too close to the bottom, then circulation coverage is improved, but excessive debris movement or dredging occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The vortex disruptor acts as an intermediary that enables the circulation assembly to operate at optimal positions without causing excessive debris disturbance. By controlling vortex formation, it prevents the assembly from needing to be positioned extremely close to the bottom, thereby reducing dredging and debris movement.
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 vortex disruptor enables effective liquid circulation near the surface without loud sounds and reduces debris disturbance, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing unwanted dredging.
Implementation Method 1
a vortex disrupter or blocker that disrupts a vortex created by the circulation assembly of the liquid circulator to minimize or eliminate the slurping/slapping sound
Implementation Method 2
The vortex disruptor can be mounted to the liquid circulator, and in one embodiment the vortex disruptor is attached to the liquid circulator at any location other than a propeller guard of the liquid circulation assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A liquid circulator for creating liquid circulation in a body of liquid includes a vortex disrupter or blocker that disrupts a vortex created by the circulation assembly of the liquid circulator to minimize or eliminate the slurping/slapping sound. The liquid circulator and vortex disrupter described herein may be used in shallow water with the liquid circulator mounted to a structure, such as a dock or pier. The vortex disruptor permits the circulation assembly to be operated closer to the water surface, while minimizing or eliminating the slurping/slapping sound, and with the circulation assembly further away from the bottom to avoid moving too much debris or possibly causing dredging/trenching on the bottom.