Repositionable Washer Nozzle Assembly for Spray Direction Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Washer decontamination systems for medical and dental instruments require improved nozzle assemblies that can adjust spray direction and vary rotational speed to enhance microbial deactivation and cleaning efficiency, while also allowing for easy maintenance and monitoring.
Innovation Solution
A spray arm assembly with a repositionable nozzle assembly that includes a sensor element for monitoring and a removable design, allowing for adjustment of nozzle orientation and rotational speed based on position, facilitating effective microbial deactivation and easy cleaning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the nozzle assembly is made repositionable and removable to allow adjustment of spray direction and facilitate cleaning, then the adaptability and ease of maintenance are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle assembly is divided into separable components including the nozzle body, mounting bracket, and spray arm, allowing independent adjustment and removal of the nozzle while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure
Solution Approach 2:
The nozzle assembly incorporates adjustable mounting mechanisms that allow the spray direction to be dynamically changed during operation or maintenance, providing adaptability without requiring complete redesign of the assembly
2Measurement precision
If the nozzle assembly includes a sensor element for monitoring position, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A sensor element is integrated into the nozzle assembly to detect the position of the spray arm and provide feedback signals, enabling precise monitoring and control while maintaining a relatively compact design
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor element serves multiple functions including position monitoring, alignment verification, and potential control signal generation, reducing the need for separate monitoring systems and minimizing additional complexity
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~4
Figure 5
AI summary
The present invention provides a spray arm assembly comprised of a tubular member rotatable about a fixed axis. The tubular member has an internal passage and a central axis extending a length of the tubular member. A nozzle assembly is attachable to an end of the tubular member and fluidly communicates with the internal passage of the tubular member. The nozzle assembly is comprised of an insert attachable to the tubular member in a predetermined position. A nozzle body has an aperture therein defining a spray orifice. The nozzle body is mo?ntable to the insert in one of a plurality of positions wherein the spray orifice has an orientation based upon a position of the nozzle body relative to the insert. A fastening means is provided for fastening the insert and the nozzle body together in one of the plurality of positions.