Patent Application
20180117605
The present disclosure relates to irrigation devices. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a rotation limitation mechanism for an impact/impulse sprinkler.
This section is intended to provide a background or context to the disclosure recited in the claims. The description herein may include concepts that could be pursued, but are not necessarily ones that have been previously conceived or pursued. Therefore, unless otherwise indicated herein, what is described in this section is not prior art to the description and claims in this application and is not admitted to be prior art by inclusion in this section.
Irrigation devices, such as sprinklers, are used to provide fluid such as water to desired areas typically without user control. Beneficially, this enables owners/users of the irrigation devices to tend to other tasks while fluid is being provided to a desired area (e.g., a region of a lawn, a flower bed, etc.). There are many types of irrigation devices: a pop-up sprinkler that is stored at or below a ground surface that selectively “pops-up” when in use to provide fluid; impact or impulse sprinklers that utilize fluid flow to drive rotation of the spray nozzle of the sprinkler; fixed spray sprinklers that provide a fixed stream of fluid (e.g., no rotation or other movement); and various other types of irrigation devices.
Impact or impulse sprinklers are a popular choice for residential (e.g., home lawns) and commercial (e.g., golf courses) uses. In operation, the impact sprinkler is inserted or rested upon a ground surface, coupled to a fluid source, and activated to provide a stream of fluid in a rotatable manner. One popular aspect of an impact sprinkler is the inclusion of a rotation limitation mechanism. The rotation limitation mechanism constrains how far the spray nozzle may rotate (e.g., ten degrees, thirty degrees, etc.), such that the range of rotation provided by the sprinkler may match the desired area for wetting. However, the rotation limitation mechanisms utilized by conventional impact sprinklers are typically fallible (e.g., consisting of only a spring with two stops/projections that limit the rotation of the nozzle, which are prone to loosening or otherwise failing), complicated to use (e.g., disposed in small areas where a user must contort their hand to reach and use), and various other shortcomings.
One embodiment relates to a rotation limitation mechanism for an impact sprinkler. The rotation limitation mechanism includes a nozzle body including a first protrusion, a second protrusion, and a spray nozzle structured to emit a fluid stream; a first trip collar including a first trip flange; a second trip collar including a second trip flange; and a trip paddle including a first arm and a second arm, wherein the first arm is structured to selectively engage with each of the first and second trip flanges while the second arm is structured to selectively engage with each of the first and second protrusions to control a rotational amount and a rotational direction of the nozzle body about a first axis.
Another embodiment relates to an impact sprinkler. The impact sprinkler includes a stem; a nozzle body including a spray nozzle structured to emit a fluid stream, the nozzle body rotatably coupled to the stem about a first axis; a swing arm collar rotatably coupled to the stem about the first axis; a swing arm rotatably coupled to the swing arm collar, wherein the swing arm is rotatable about a second axis; a first trip flange rotatably coupled to the stem about the first axis; a second trip flange rotatably coupled to the stem about the first axis; and, a trip paddle rotatably coupled to the swing arm collar, wherein the trip paddle is rotatable about a third axis to selectively engage with one of the first and second trip flanges at a time to control a rotational direction of the nozzle body about the first axis. According to one configuration, the first, second, and third axes are each different.
Still another embodiment relates to an impact sprinkler. The impact sprinkler includes a nozzle body including a spray nozzle structured to emit a fluid, the nozzle body rotatable about a first axis; a swing arm assembly including: a swing arm collar rotatable about the first axis; a swing arm coupled to the swing arm collar, the swing arm rotatable about a second axis; and, a diffuser coupled to the swing arm, the diffuser structured to selectively engage with the emitted fluid to cause the diffuser and swing arm to rotate about each of the first and second axes. The impact sprinkler also includes a first trip flange rotatable about the first axis; a second trip flange rotatable about the first axis; and, a trip paddle rotatably coupled to the swing arm collar, wherein the trip paddle is rotatable about a third axis to selectively engage with one of the first and second trip flanges at a time to control a rotational direction and a rotational amount of the nozzle body about the first axis.
Yet another embodiment relates to an impact sprinkler. The impact sprinkler includes a stem; a first trip collar rotatably coupled to the stem, the first trip collar including a first trip flange; a second trip collar rotatably coupled to the stem, the second trip collar including a second trip flange; a nozzle body including a spray nozzle structured to emit a fluid stream, the nozzle body rotatably coupled to the stem; and a base coupled to an end of the stem opposite an end of the stem where the first and second trip collars are positioned such that the nozzle body is an intermediary between the base and the first and second trip collars.
Still yet another embodiment relates to an impact sprinkler. The impact sprinkler includes a stem including a first stem seal and a second steam seal, wherein the stem defines a fluid passage; a nozzle body including a spray nozzle structured to emit fluid received from the fluid passage, the nozzle body rotatably coupled to the stem by the first and second steam seals; a first trip flange rotatably coupled to the stem; and, a second trip flange rotatably coupled to the stem, wherein the first and second trip flanges are structured to control, at least in part, a rotational direction and a rotational amount of the nozzle body relative to the stem.
Still a further embodiment relates to an impact sprinkler. The impact sprinkler includes a stem including a first stem seal and a second steam seal, wherein the stem defines a fluid passage and a fluid outlet port; a first trip collar rotatably coupled to the stem, the first trip collar including a first trip flange; a second trip collar rotatably coupled to the stem, the second trip collar including a second trip flange; and, a nozzle body including a spray nozzle structured to emit a fluid stream, the nozzle body rotatably coupled to the stem by the first and second stem seals. According to one configuration, the first and second trip collars are distal from the fluid passage, and the fluid outlet port is disposed between the first and second stem seals.
Referring to the Figures generally, an irrigation device with a rotation limitation mechanism is shown according to various embodiments herein. According to the present disclosure, the irrigation device is configured as an impact sprinkler that includes a rotational limitation mechanism positioned away or distal from a spray nozzle. The impact sprinkler includes a stem, a nozzle body rotatably coupled to the stem that includes a pair of protrusions and the spray nozzle, a first trip collar having a first trip flange, a second trip collar having a second trip flange, a swing arm collar coupled to a swing arm and a diffuser, and a trip paddle. The trip paddle, pair of protrusions, and trip flanges may form or at least partly form the rotational limitation mechanism (also referred to herein as the rotation limitation mechanism). Prior to use, a user may position the trip flanges a desired distance from each other to control a range of rotation of the spray nozzle. In use (i.e., when fluid is permitted to be ejected from the spray nozzle), fluid emitted from the spray nozzle may impact or contact a first part of the diffuser. This contact causes the diffuser to rotate about the stem in a first rotational direction. Rotation of the diffuser about the stem in the first rotational direction also causes the trip paddle and swing arm collar to rotate in the first rotational direction about the stem. Due to the coupling or engagement of the swing arm collar with the nozzle body (and, consequently, the spray nozzle), rotation of the swing arm collar also causes the nozzle body to rotate about the stem in the first rotational direction. At some point during this first rotational direction movement, the trip paddle may engage with one of the trip flanges. This engagement may cause or eventually cause the trip paddle to move away from that trip flange towards the other trip flange in a direction opposite to the first rotational direction. This action or “trip” then causes the nozzle body to rotate or move a relatively greater amount than the previous discrete amounts of rotation in the first rotational direction. In other words, this trip results in the nozzle body still moving in the first rotational direction, but at a relatively greater amount than the previous discrete amount of rotation in the first rotational direction. As a result, the emitted fluid stream may then impact a second, different part of the diffuser to force, urge, or otherwise push the diffuser in a second, opposite rotational direction relative to the first rotational direction. In turn, the diffuser then moves the swing arm collar in the second rotational direction, which causes the nozzle body to rotate in the second rotational direction. This process may then repeat itself indefinitely to enable the nozzle body to rotate back and forth between the two trip flanges in the first and second rotational directions in order to wet a desired area.
According to the present disclosure, the first and second trip collars (in turn, the trip flanges) are disposed away (i.e., distal) from the spray nozzle. In particular and according to one embodiment, the first and second trip flanges are disposed vertically above the swing arm collar, which is disposed vertically above the spray nozzle. Thus, the trip flanges are positioned away from the spray stream ejected from the spray nozzle. In contrast to conventional impact sprinklers where the trip flanges are positioned below or adjacent the spray nozzle, the orientation of the present disclosure increases an ease of use of the impact sprinkler relative to conventional impact sprinklers. In particular, users may not have to tuck their hands into small areas and now can easily see the range of rotation that the spray nozzle will rotate based on the positioning of the trip flanges. Further, by positioning the trip flanges away or distal from the spray nozzle, the hands of the user may avoid the spray stream emitted from the spray nozzle to avoid getting wet from the spray. This may be an appealing and pleasant feature to the users of the impact sprinkler of the present disclosure.
Beneficially, the impact sprinkler may also include a disengagement mechanism structured to enable a disengagement of the rotational limitation mechanism. Advantageously, some users may desire to have the spray nozzle rotate three hundred and sixty (360) degrees continuously. By including a disengagement mechanism, the spray nozzle is not limited to rotating between the first and second trip flanges. As such, the nozzle body may continuously rotate about the stem in one of the first or second rotational directions. One example of a disengagement mechanism of the present disclosure is that the first and second trip collars are slidable, translatable, or otherwise movable along a primary axis (also referred to herein as the first axis, which is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to a ground surface when the sprinkler is in use) into positions capable of engaging and not engaging with the trip paddle. Another example of a disengagement mechanism of the present disclosure is rotatable trip flanges that may rotate into positions capable of engaging and not engaging with trip paddle. Still another example of a disengagement mechanism of the present disclosure is a movable trip paddle that may move into and out of positions capable of engaging and not engaging with the trip flanges. These and other disengagement mechanisms are described more fully herein below.
It should be understood that while the present disclosure describes the sprinkler as emitting a “fluid,” this is done on purpose as the present disclosure contemplates that the type of fluid may be highly configurable. For example and in one embodiment, the type of fluid may be water, which may be provided by a spigot or other water source. In another example, a reservoir containing a mixture of water and fertilizer may be used by the sprinkler. In still another example, a variety of other types of fluids may be used. Thus, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate and recognize that the irrigation device of the present disclosure may provide water in addition to various other types of fluids with all such variations intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure.
Referring now collectively to
With the above in mind, the sprinkler 10 is shown to generally include a base 12 coupled to a stem 14, a nozzle body 16 coupled to the stem 14, first and second trip collars 24 and 25 coupled to the stem 14, a swing arm assembly 40 coupled to the stem 14, and, among other components, a rotation limitation mechanism 100 structured to control the direction and range of rotation of the spray nozzle 18. As shown, the base 12 (e.g., support structure, etc.) is shown as a spiked base. The spike (e.g., point, insertable part, etc.) is shaped to enable insertion into a ground surface, such that any type of shape that facilitates or helps to insert the base 12 may be used. In other embodiments, the base 12 may be structured as a rest-type support structure. The rest-type support structure is characterized by allowing the sprinkler 10 to rest upon a ground surface (e.g., not be inserted into the ground). Thus, the present disclosure is applicable with each type of base 12 configuration. Before turning to the specifics of the rotation limitation mechanism 100, the other components of the sprinkler 10 are firstly described.
The stem 14 is structured as a support structure for the sprinkler 10 such that various components may be coupled thereto. As shown particularly in
As alluded to above, the stem 14 is shown to include various coupling mechanisms for coupling the various components thereto. In particular, the stem 14 includes a first coupling mechanism 66, a second coupling mechanism 68, and a third coupling mechanism 70. The first coupling mechanism 66 may be structured to enable the coupling of the stem 14 to the base 12. The second and third coupling mechanisms 68 and 70 may be structured to enable a coupling of the stem 14 to the nozzle body 16. In the example depicted, the first coupling mechanism 66 includes a hex-bolt surface in combination with a cylindrical outer surface (positioned vertically below the hex-bolt surface, proximate the base 12). In the example of
As mentioned above, the first and second coupling mechanisms 68 and 70 may be structured to couple the stem 14 to the nozzle body 16. As shown, the first coupling mechanism 68 is disposed proximate the trip collars 24 and 25 while the second coupling mechanism 70 is disposed proximate the base 12. In this regard, the first and second coupling mechanisms 68 and 70 are spaced apart relative to each other. As also shown in
With the above in mind and in the example depicted, the first and second stem seals 68 and 70 are structured as grooves which each may receive a gasket (e.g., an O-ring, a flat washer seal, etc.). Interior surfaces of the nozzle body 16 may engage with the gaskets to rotatably couple the nozzle body 16 to the stem 14 and to provide a fluid tight or substantially fluidly tight seal. In this regard and as shown, the cross-sectional size (e.g., diameter) of where the first groove is positioned (i.e., first coupling mechanism 68) may be relatively larger than that where the second groove is positioned (i.e., the second coupling mechanism 70). As a result, the nozzle body 16 may define an interior shape that corresponds with the size differential provided by the cross-sectional sizes to substantially ensure that the nozzle body 16 is coupled to the stem 14 in the correct manner (i.e., prevent the nozzle body 16 from being coupled to the nozzle body 16 upside down) and to substantially ensure a secure or relatively secure connection between the nozzle body 16 and the stem 14. According to another embodiment, the first and second stem seals 68 and 70 may be structured as threads. According to still another embodiment, the first and second steam seals 68 and 70 may be any type of coupling mechanism (e.g., a bearing or bushing, etc.) that enables the rotatable coupling of the stem 14 to the nozzle body 16. Additionally, sealers or other fluid sealing devices, materials, components, and the like may be used to ensure or substantially ensure a fluid tight seal between the nozzle body 16 and the stem 14. Thus, those of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize and appreciate the high configurability of the stem seals 68, 70, with all such variations intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure. Further, it should be understood that any of the aforementioned stem seals may be used alone or in combination with each other to create the rotatable connection between the nozzle body 16 and the stem 14.
As shown in
Still referring to
As also shown, the nozzle body 16 defines a fluid passage 19 that is fluidly coupled to the spray nozzle 18. When the nozzle body 16 is rotatably coupled to the stem 14, the fluid passage 19 (e.g., fluid channel, fluid flow path, etc.) fluidly couples to the fluid passage 80 (i.e., coupled in such a way that fluid is permitted is travel between the components). In this regard, fluid in the fluid passage 80 is provided by the fluid outlet port 72 to the fluid passage 19. Therefore, in use, the nozzle body 16 may rotate about the primary axis 90, such that the spray nozzle 18 may deliver, provide, eject, shoot, or otherwise dispense fluid in an arc or curved pattern. As shown, the spray nozzle 18 is at an angle 93 relative to the primary axis 90. As a result and when the sprinkler 10 is set-up (e.g., put into an operating position), the spray nozzle 18 may provide fluid at or substantially at the angle 93, which is shown to be radially outwards from the primary axis 90. While the angle 93 is highly configurable, in the example shown, the angle 93 is less than ninety (90) degrees relative to the primary axis 90. In another embodiment, the angle 93 may be substantially equal to ninety (90) degrees relative to the primary axis 90. In still another embodiment, a different angle 93 demarcation may be used.
The spray nozzle 18 may have a variety of configurations structured to control the fluid stream provided (e.g., a configuration that enables providing of a jet of fluid, a configuration that enables providing a plurality of jets of fluid, a configuration that enables providing mist, etc.). In some embodiments, a variety of spray nozzles may be sold that are each capable of different fluid stream control devices. As a result, a user may exchange one spray nozzle for another depending on the fluid stream desired.
The nozzle body 16 is shown to include connection points 17 for a fluid flow control device for when the diffuser 45 is not in contact with the jet. The fluid flow control device may be structured as a button, switch, knob, and any other device that may be selectively moved from an ON position to an OFF position. In the OFF position, fluid may be permitted to travel along the flow path 19 in order to be emitted from the nozzle 18. In the ON position, fluid may be prohibited from being emitted from the nozzle 18. Addition of a fluid flow control device may be beneficial for users to selectively control activation of the sprinkler 10 at the sprinkler 10 rather than, for example, at a spigot that is connected to a hose, which is connected to the sprinkler 10. Of course, in other embodiments, the fluid flow control device may be excluded from the sprinkler 10 or disposed with another component of the sprinkler 10.
As also shown, the nozzle body 16 includes a pair of protrusions (e.g., ridges, elevations, edges, raised edges, stop members, walls, etc.) positioned near the trip collars 24 and 25. In particular, the nozzle body 16 includes a first protrusion 21, a second protrusion 22, and a surface 23 interconnecting the first and second protrusions 21 and 22. As shown, the first and second protrusions 21 and 22 extend radially outward from the primary axis 90 as well as in a parallel direction to the primary axis 90 upward (i.e., towards the trip collars 24 and 25) to form walls or abutment structures. As also shown, the first and second protrusions 21 and 22 are disposed adjacent and at least partly above the spray nozzle 18. In the configuration depicted, the surface 23 is structured as a substantially smooth surface (e.g., low friction, etc.) in order to permit/allow a sliding engagement with the trip paddle 45. In this regard and as described more fully herein, the first protrusion 21, second protrusion 22, and surface 23 form a part of the rotation limitation mechanism 100 that limits rotation of the nozzle body 16 and, in turn, the spray nozzle 18.
Referring more particularly to
Still referring particularly to
As alluded to above, the sprinkler 10 is also shown to include a swing arm assembly 40. The swing arm assembly 40 includes a swing arm collar 41 rotatably coupled to the stem 14, a body 42 connected to a swing arm 43, a diffuser 44 coupled to the swing arm 43, and a trip paddle 45 coupled to the swing arm collar 41.
As shown, the swing arm collar 41 has a substantially cylindrical shape. Further, the swing arm collar 41 is structured to rotate about the primary axis 90. In this regard, the swing arm collar 41 may be coupled to the stem 14 in any suitable manner that permits rotation by the swing arm collar 41 relative to the stem 14 (e.g., threads, a protrusion and ridge connection, a bearing or bushing, etc.). In this regard and as shown/mentioned above, rotatable coupling to the stem 14 may be via the adapter 53 and shaft 34 to the stem 14.
The swing arm collar 41 is structured to engage with the nozzle body 16 to cause rotation of the nozzle body 16 when the sprinkler 10 is in use. In this regard and referring particularly to
The body 42 may be structured as a housing or other type of support structure for the swing arm 43 and diffuser 44. In the example depicted, the body 42 is coupled to the swing arm collar 41, such that rotation of the swing arm collar 41 causes coincident rotation of the body 42 (i.e., rotation in the same direction). Coupling of the body 42 to the swing arm collar 41 may be via any suitable manner including, but not limited to, fasteners (e.g., bolts, screws, rivets, pins), adhesives (e.g., glue, epoxy, etc.), joining mechanisms (e.g., welding, soldering, etc.), and/or any combination thereof. As shown, the body 42 is substantially cylindrical in shape. Relative to the substantially-cylinder shaped stem 14, however, the body 42 is oriented perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the stem 14. As a result and as shown, the predominately flat faces of the cylindrical shaped body 42 are positioned on radially opposing sides of the stem 14. It should be understood that in other embodiments, the body 42 may be constructed in a variety of other shapes/sizes (e.g., rectangular, etc.) with all such variations intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure.
The swing arm 43 is movably coupled to the body 42. In particular, the swing arm 42 is rotatably coupled to one end (at or near) of the body 42. Coupling of the arm 43 to the body 42 may be via any suitable mechanism. For example, a bearing may be used in order to couple the swing arm 43 to the body 42 to permit relative movement between the swing arm 43 and the body 42. As another example, the swing arm 43 may include a pin that is received in a bore of the body 42, where the bore is sized and shape to support the pin and allow the pin to move (e.g., rotate) within the bore. Thus, many different coupling mechanisms may be utilized with all such variations intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure. The swing arm 43 (e.g., member, wing, etc.) is shown to wrap around yet spaced apart from the stem 14. In this regard, a space or void is created between the swing arm 43 and the stem 14 (and the components coupled to the stem 14 including the nozzle body 14 and the swing arm collar 41). As shown, the swing arm 43 wraps approximately one-hundred eighty (180) degrees around the stem 14. In other embodiments, the swing arm 43 may wrap a different amount around the stem 14.
In the example shown, the swing arm 43 is movable in two directions. First and due to the coupling to the body 42 that is coupled to the swing arm collar 41, the swing arm 43 is rotatable about the primary axis 90. Second, the swing arm 43 is also rotatable about a secondary axis 91. In this regard and as alluded to above, the body 42 may be structured as an enclosure that houses, among other components, a biasing element. The biasing element may bias the arm 43 in the “up position.” The “up position” (also referred to herein as the “first position” or “in configuration” due its placement relative to the fluid emitted from the spray nozzle that enables the diffuser 44 to be “in” contact with the emitted fluid) may be characterized as the swing arm 43 being held at or near the highest rotatable position to the first and second trip collars 24 and 25 (i.e., towards a top of the stem 14, opposite of the base 12). In comparison, a sufficient force may overcome the biasing force to push the arm 43 towards a “down position.” The “down position” (also referred to herein as the “second position” or “out position” due to being out of position from fluid stream) corresponds to the swing arm 43 being rotated into a position proximate to the base 12. In the example depicted, the biasing element is structured as a spring. The spring may be a torsional spring or any other type of spring that is capable of biasing the arm 43 into the up position. However, in another configuration, the body 42 may house a counterweight that biases the swing arm 43 to the in configuration.
According to one embodiment, the amount of rotation of the swing arm 43 and diffuser 44 about the second axis 92 may be controlled by a stop mechanism. With reference to
The body 42 may also include a handle 46. The handle 46 may be coupled to the body 42 and extend away therefrom. In the embodiment depicted, the handle 46 extends away from the stem 14. The handle 46 (e.g., lever, etc.) enables a user to manually actuate rotation of the swing arm 43 about the second axis 91. Beneficially, a user may then hold the swing arm 43 (and, in turn, the diffuser 44) in the down position to, e.g., clean the spray nozzle 18, replace the spray nozzle 18, or otherwise increase the unobstructed area to adjust or perform maintenance on the sprinkler 10. Additionally, the user may also rotate the arm 43 about the primary axis 90 as well. Of course, in other embodiments, the handle 46 may be excluded. In still other embodiments, a retainer or retention mechanism may be included with the sprinkler 10 that holds or retains the swing arm 43 and/or diffuser 44 in a desired position. For example, a latch may be disposed on the nozzle body 16 that selectively locks or retains the swing arm 43. In this case, a user may not have to continuously hold the swing arm 43 in the desired down position, but may instead use the latch to hold the arm 43.
As mentioned above, the diffuser 44 is coupled to the swing arm 43. In particular, one end of the swing arm 43 is coupled to the body 42 while another end of the swing arm 43 is coupled to the diffuser 44. The diffuser 44 extends outward and away from the swing arm 43 and generally includes a first set of features 47 and a second set of features 48. In the example depicted, the first and second sets of features 47, 48 are structured as ridges and, in particular, a plurality of parallel or substantially parallel oriented ridges (that is to say, the ridges that form the first set of features 47 are parallel to each other and the ridges that form the second set of features 48 are parallel to each other). Thus, the first and second sets of features 47 and 48 may also be referred to as ridges 47 and ridges 48. As also shown, the diffuser 44 has a substantial V-shape. In this regard, the first set of features 47 is disposed on side of the “V” while the second set of features 48 is disposed on the other side of the V. Such a configuration may enable the pushing of the diffuser to enable rotation of the nozzle body, which is described herein below. Furthermore and as shown, the ridges 47 and 48 are at an upward angle relative to the primary axis 91 (e.g., pointed upward in a direction towards the trip collars 24, 25).
Based on the foregoing, the diffuser 44 is structured to interfere, impede, contact, or otherwise engage with the fluid stream emitted from the spray nozzle 18. In particular and due to the upward orientation of the ridges 47, 48, the fluid stream may impact the ridges 47 or 48 to interfere with the flow of fluid from the nozzle 18 to push or otherwise direct the fluid upward. Further, Applicant has determined that the interference with the ridges may also impart a rotational force onto the fluid stream. The rotational force may cause the fluid stream to curve or rotate rather than being emitted in a substantially straight line or direction.
It should be understood that in other embodiments, the diffuser 44 may have a different structure, different features, different shapes, different size, and/or some combination therewith. For example, the ridges may be removed such that each surface of the V-shaped diffuser is predominately flat or smooth. As another example, the V-shape of the diffuser may be replaced with a variety of other shapes, such as a door on a hinge that rotates upon an impact with the fluid stream, etc. Thus, those of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize and appreciate the high configurability of the structure of the diffuser 44.
The trip paddle 45 may be rotatably coupled to the swing arm collar 41. As part of the rotation limitation mechanism 100, the trip paddle 45 (e.g., toggle device, etc.) is structured to aid limiting rotation of the nozzle body 16 and cause, at least in part, a change of rotational direction of the nozzle body 16 about the primary axis 90. As shown, the trip paddle 45 is disposed on the swing arm collar 41 proximate to the protrusions of the nozzle body 16. As shown and generally speaking, the trip paddle 45 includes a first arm 49 and a second arm 50. The first arm 49 (e.g., flap, member, paddle, extension, etc.) extends outward and away from the second arm 50 (e.g., flap, member, paddle, extension, etc.) in a substantially opposite direction. In particular, the first arm 49 is oriented or directed upward (e.g., towards the trip collars 24 and 25) while the second arm 50 is oriented in a direction downward (e.g., towards the base 12 or nozzle body 16. A coupling mechanism 51 (see
In operation, the first and second arms 49, 50 rotate about the third axis 92. In particular and as explained more fully herein below, the first arm 49 may selectively engage or contact one of the trip flanges 26 or 27 while the second arm 50 may selectively engage or contact one of the protrusions 21 or 22. As a result of these engagements, the nozzle body 16 may rotate about the primary axis 90 and reverse rotational directions about the primary axis 90.
Thus, and as shown, the sprinkler 10 includes components that have three rotational degrees of freedoms. The swing arm 43 (and diffuser 44) rotates about the second axis 91; the swing arm (and diffuser 44) also rotates about the first axis 90; and, the trip paddle 45 rotates about the third axis 93. Further and in the example shown, each of the axes is different relative to each other. Beneficially, the use of different axes may prevent unwanted interaction between the components to ensure or substantially ensure seamless operation of the sprinkler 10.
Still referring to
In this regard and referring more particularly to
In the example of
The collar 38 (e.g., support structure, etc.) may couple to and at least partially support the components extending radially outward from the collar 38. In this regard and as shown, the collar 38 includes a hook 36 extending outward from a remaining portion of the collar 38. With reference to
An inner cap 33 (e.g., lid, cover, top, etc.) may be disposed at or near the vertical top of the sprinkler 10. The cap 33 may be coupled to the shaft 34 (e.g., stem, pole, etc.). The shaft 34 includes a coupling mechanism 35, which is shown as threads, may be structured to enable coupling of the stem 14 to the shaft 34. Thus, the coupling of the collar 38 and components coupled thereto to the stem 14 may include the following features: the adapter 53 itself engaging with an opening that matches or substantially matches the shape of the adapter 53 in the collar 38, reception of the shaft 34 in the opening of the adapter 53, and the coupling mechanism 35 that attaches the shaft 34 to the stem 14. In other configuration, more, less, or different coupling mechanisms may be used with all such variations intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure.
Beneficially, the aforementioned coupling configuration is advantageous because if maintenance (e.g., cleaning) is desired for the inner portion of the stem 14 (i.e., the fluid passage 80), a user may de-couple the shaft 34 from the stem 14 via the coupling mechanism 35 and lift the components coupled to the collar 38 vertically upwards away from the stem 14 in order to access the fluid passage 80 (and the components therein, such as a filter if included). According to an alternate embodiment, the stem 14 may be manufactured to not be open at the top (i.e., proximate the trip collars 24, 25). Both variations are intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure.
Still referring primarily to
As also shown, the first trip collar 24 includes a trip flange 26 (e.g., stop member, projection, etc.) while the second trip collar 25 includes a trip flange 27 (e.g., stop member, projection, etc.). The trip flange 26 may be of integral construction with the trip collar 24 or may be coupled to the trip collar 24. Similarly, the trip flange 27 may be of integral construction with the trip collar 25 or may be coupled to the trip collar 25. As shown, the trip flanges 26 and 27 extend radially outward from the trip collars 24 and 25, respectively, and are shaped as substantially rectangular prisms. However, in other embodiments, a variety of other shapes and configurations may be used (e.g., the trip flanges may not be solid bodies like shown, be square shaped to resemble a tab, etc.).
Because the first and second trip collars 24, 25 are rotatable about the primary axis 90 relative to each other, the trip flanges 26 and 27 are also rotatable about the primary axis 90 relative to each other. In this regard, the gap separating the trip flanges 26 and 27 may be variable. For example, if a relatively smaller range of rotation of the nozzle body 16 is desired, the user may rotate the first and second trip collars 24, 25 relatively close together. However, if a relatively large range of rotation of the nozzle body 16 is desired, the user may rotate the trip flanges 26 and 27 relatively further apart from each other. Thus, relative positioning of the trip flanges 26 and 27 to each other controls the range of rotation of the spray nozzle 18. In this regard and as shown, the trip flanges 26, 27 form part of the rotation limitation mechanism 100. As described herein, the trip flanges 26 and 27 may be structured to limit rotation of the nozzle body 16 and cause the nozzle body 16 to change rotation directions about the primary axis 90.
With the aforementioned structural components of the sprinkler 10 described above, operation of the sprinkler 10 with the rotation limitation mechanism 100 may be described as follows. For reference purposes,
As a precursor to operation of the sprinkler 10, the sprinkler 10 is fluidly connected to fluid source (e.g., a water spigot). A user may then rotate the first and second trip collars 24 and 25 to a desired trip flange 26 and 27 separation distance. The separation distance may correspond with anywhere between approximately zero (0) degrees of rotation permitted by the nozzle body 16 and approximately three-hundred and sixty (360) degrees of rotation about the primary axis 90. Once the desired rotation amount is set by arranging the position of the trip flanges 26 and 27, the fluid source may be turned on (e.g., allowed to flow to the sprinkler 10). Assuming the sprinkler 10 fluid flow control device (when implemented) is in a position that allows fluid to flow out the spray nozzle 18, operation of the sprinkler 10 may be described as follows.
When the stream of fluid is emitted from the spray nozzle 18 and the swing arm assembly 40 is in the in configuration, the fluid strikes, contacts, or otherwise engages with the diffuser 44. The fluid that contacts the diffuser 44 pushes or forces the diffuser 44 into the out configuration. However, due to the counter weight or another biasing element in the body 42 of the swing arm assembly 40, the diffuser 44 is biased back towards the in configuration. As a result, an oscillation is created by diffuser 44 where the diffuser and arm 43 rotate about the second axis 91 between the in and out configurations.
In addition to this oscillation, the impact of the fluid on the diffuser 44 also causes rotation of the diffuser 44 and nozzle body 16 about the primary axis 90. Thus, the diffuser 44 moves about the primary axis 90 and the secondary axis 91. In this regard and referring first to
As mentioned above, the protrusions 55 of the swing arm collar 41 may engage with the grooves of collar 20. As a result, the nozzle body 16 may be engaged with the swing arm assembly 40. Therefore, when the swing arm collar 41 rotates, a force may be imparted by the protrusions of the collar 41 onto the collar 20. This rotational force may then cause the nozzle body 16 to also rotate. Therefore, the nozzle body 16 rotates in the same direction as the swing arm collar 41 about the primary axis 90 (and, in turn, the diffuser 44 as well). In one embodiment, the amount of rotation of the nozzle body 16 about the primary axis 90 may correspond or match the amount of rotation of the swing arm collar 41 (e.g., the relatively small amount described above). In another embodiment, the amount of rotation of the nozzle body 16 about the primary axis 90 may differ from that of the amount of rotation of the swing arm collar 41 by more than the relatively small amount described above.
With this in mind, the rotation limitation mechanism 100 may be described as follows. At some point during the rotational movement of the nozzle body 16 and swing arm collar 41 counterclockwise, the first arm 49 impacts, contacts, or otherwise engages with the second trip flange 27. This point in rotation corresponds with the prescribed rotational amount defined by the user (i.e., the placement of the trip flanges 26 and 27 at a desired rotational amount). As the fluid keeps impacting the first ridges 47 (i.e., the right configuration of
Thus, the nozzle body 16 rotates between the trip flanges 26 and 27 to provide fluid at the range of rotation about the primary axis 90 that is defined by the separation distance of the trip flanges 26 and 27. Further, the arms of the trip paddle are structured to therefore move the nozzle body and cause, at least in part, a change of rotational direction of the nozzle body.
Additionally and as described herein above, the rotation amount of trip paddle 45 about the third axis 92 may be relatively greater than the rotation amount of the nozzle body 16 (and, in turn, the swing arm collar 41) about the primary axis 90. More particularly, the rotation amount of trip paddle 45 may be relatively greater than the discrete amount of rotation of the nozzle body 16 caused by each instance of the fluid impacting the diffuser (i.e., when the fluid impacts the diffuser in the in configuration, a discrete amount of rotation about the primary axis 90 results, which is less than the amount of rotation of trip paddle 45 about the third axis 92). As a result, when the trip paddle 45 rotates, the trip paddle 45 may force, push, or otherwise rotate the nozzle body 16 in the same direction but relatively further about the primary axis 90 than the nozzle body 16 was previously rotating about the primary axis 90 (i.e., the discrete rotational amount). As such, the emitted fluid may then impact the side of the diffuser 44 not or substantially not previously impacted before the switch to then cause the nozzle body 16 to switch rotation directions.
The rotation limitation mechanism 100 described above offers several advantages. First, the trip flanges 26 and 27 are disposed above the nozzle body 16 in contrast to current and conventional impact sprinklers. This positioning enables a user to relatively easy see, inspect, and control placement of the trip flanges 26 and 27 to, in turn, control the degree of rotation of the nozzle body 16. This may be appealing to consumers and increase the overall pleasantness of use. Second, the robust nature of the sprinkler 10 relative to current impact sprinklers may improve the performance of the sprinkler 10 over a longer period of time than conventional impact sprinklers. In this regard, conventional impact sprinklers typically have exposed springs that control rotation of the sprinkler head. In contrast, the sprinkler 10 of the present disclosure does not include such an exposed element that is otherwise subject to environmental degradation.
As mentioned herein above, in certain embodiments, the rotation limitation mechanism 100 may also include a disengagement mechanism that is structured to remove the ability to impart a limited rotation capability to the spray nozzle 18. In this regard, the spray nozzle 18 may then be permitted to rotate continuously clockwise or counterclockwise about the primary axis 90. This may be advantageous if the user desires a repeated three-hundred and sixty (360) degree fluid covering from the spray nozzle. While many different disengagement mechanisms may be included with the rotation limitation mechanism 100, various examples are shown herein with respect to
Accordingly referring first to
Referring now to
Referring now to
Referring now to
It should be understood that the aforementioned described disengagement mechanisms are not meant to be limiting. In this regard, different disengagement mechanisms may also be utilized with the rotation limitation mechanism 100 of the present disclosure without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the trip flanges may be magnetically coupled to the trip collars. As such, a user may simply overcome the magnetic force to remove the trip flanges from the trip collars. As another example, a fastener may be used to couple the trip flanges to the trip collars (e.g., a screw). As such, a user may simply remove the fastener to de-couple the trip flanges from the trip collars. Thus, many types of disengagement mechanisms are contemplated by the present disclosure with all such variations intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure.
It should also be understood that while the present disclosure describes each disengagement mechanism separately, in certain embodiments, more than one disengagement mechanism may be utilized together. For example, the first and third disengagement mechanisms may be implemented with one impact sprinkler. Further and according to an alternate embodiment, no disengagement mechanism may be used. Thus, many different variations are possible with all such variations intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure.
It should further be understood that the nozzle body 16, one or more components of the swing arm assembly 40, stem 14, and any other component of the sprinkler 10 may be constructed as a unitary body (e.g., a one-piece component) or as an assembly of components. Further, these components may be constructed from any suitable material including, but not limited to, a plastic material, a metal or metal alloy material, and/or any combination therewith. For example, the use of engineered plastics may provide a preferred combination of light weight and strength. According to other embodiments, a number of alternate materials can be used to produce the sprinkler: cast or machined aluminum or brass could be utilized in the construction, a variety of steels, various composites, and/or any combination thereof. Thus, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate the high configurability of the components.
It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the irrigation device, shown as an impact sprinkler, with a rotation limitation mechanism is illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited.
Further, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the preferred and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.). Thus, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that many modifications, alterations, or changes may be imparted into the tools disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.
For the purpose of this disclosure, the term “coupled” or other similar terms, such as “attached,” means the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be achieved directly with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being attached to one another and the two members. For example and for the purposes of this disclosure, component A may be referred to as being coupled to component B even if component C is an intermediary, such that component A is not directly connected to component B. On the other hand and for the purposes of this disclosure, component A may be considered coupled to component B if component A is directly connected to component B (e.g., no intermediary). Such joining may be stationary or moveable in nature. Such joining may be permanent in nature or may be removable or releasable in nature.
The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. In the claims, any means-plus-function clause is intended to cover the structures described herein as performing the recited function and not only structural equivalents but also equivalent structures. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may be made in the design, operating configuration and arrangement of the preferred and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure as expressed in the appended claims.
