WO2020173594A1

WO2020173594A1 - Sprinkler device

Info

Publication number: WO2020173594A1
Application number: PCT/EP2019/084281
Authority: WO
Inventors: Rainer Kaupp; Tobias Schlegel
Original assignee: Husqvarna AB
Current assignee: Husqvarna AB
Priority date: 2019-02-25
Filing date: 2019-12-09
Publication date: 2020-09-03
Anticipated expiration: 2021-08-25
Also published as: FI3930912T3; EP3930912A1; CA3119888C; PL3930912T3; CN113164991B; CN113164991A; EP3930912B1; CA3119888A1; TW202031364A; TWI831920B

Abstract

A sprinkler device (100) includes a base member (102), a plurality of nozzles (212), a guide member (214), and at least one control member (220, 222). The sprinkler device (100) also includes at least one engagement member (306, 308) disposed on one of the guide member (214) and the at least one control member (220, 222). The sprinkler device (100) further includes a grooved portion (402, 404) provided on other of the guide member (214) and the at least one control member (220, 222). The at least one engagement member (306, 308) is adapted to engage with the grooved portion (402, 404) such that the at least one control member (220, 222) is adapted to selectively move the guide member (214) along a first lateral axis (Y-Y') to selectively tilt at least one of the plurality of nozzles (212) with respect to a second lateral axis (Z-Z'). The at least one control member (220, 222) is adapted to selectively pivot about an axis (A-A', B- B'), such that the axis (A-A', B-B') is substantially parallel with respect to the first lateral axis (Y-Y').

Description

SPRINKLER DEVICE

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a sprinkler device, and more particularly to an operational aspect of the sprinkler device.

BACKGROUND

Generally, a sprinkler device is used to spray multiple jets of a fluid in a predefined spraying pattern in spaces, such as lawns, gardens, and so on. In many situations, the sprinkler device may include an oscillating mechanism in order to oscillate the sprinkler device about a predefined axis. As such, a spraying range of the spraying pattern may be increased, in relation to a fixed type of a sprinkler device, in order to cover a larger area with the spraying pattern. However, an oscillation range of the sprinkler may be operationally limited, in turn, limiting the spraying range of the spraying pattern.

In many situations, the sprinkler device may include an array of flexible nozzles. Each of the nozzles may be tilted with respect to a predefined axis of the sprinkler device. In such a situation, a guide bar may be used to tilt each of the nozzles in order to increase a width and, thus, an overall spraying range of the spraying pattern in conjunction with the oscillatory movement of the sprinkler device. However, a mechanism to operate the guide bar and tilt each of the nozzle, as required, may be complicated, inefficient, difficult to operate, non- intuitive for a user, and may have a limited adjustment range. More often, it may be difficult to identify an actual spraying pattern with the mechanism and may be user dependent to identify and set a desired spraying pattern and the spraying range.

WO 2018/118485 A1 describes a sprinkler with a row of flexible nozzles that allows to alter the irrigation pattern. For this the nozzles are linked to two sliders each of which can be moved along the longitudinal axis of the sprinkler via the associated controllers. These two controllers are pivotably mounted to the sprinkler and cause the one of the sliders to move linearly when its associated controller is pivoted. As the tilt of the nozzles are related to the tilt of the pivotable slider a user intuitively gets informed about the resultant spray pattern even when there is no water exiting the sprinkler.

A somewhat comparable sprinkler is described with EP 0 970 752 Bl. Here instead of the use of two independent sliders only one single slider is being controlled on both end. As there is just a single slider the controls move the slider transverse the longitudinal axis of the sprinkler. This not to interfere between the two slider but to leave one slider in its selected position while the other slider is moved. Also the drawings show controls that are linearly moved along the longitudinal axis of the sprinkler the specification also describes alternatives to this. For example a pivot- linear-coupling that transforms a pivotable movement of a control to a linear movement of a slider. Hereby the on skilled in the art is informed of several types of suitable couplings.

SUMMARY

In view of the above, it is an objective of the present invention to find reliable working coupling. The objective is at least partially achieved by a sprinkler device, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The sprinkler device includes a base member defining a longitudinal axis, a first lateral axis, and a second lateral axis. Each of the longitudinal axis, the first lateral axis, and the second lateral axis is substantially perpendicular with respect to one another. The sprinkler device includes a plurality of nozzles disposed on the base member. Each of the plurality of nozzles is adapted to selectively tilt with respect to the second lateral axis. The sprinkler device includes a guide member disposed on or above the base member. The guide member is adapted to selectively move along the first lateral axis. The guide member includes a plurality of slots provided in the guide member. Each of the plurality of slots is disposed spaced apart with respect to one another. Each of the plurality of slots is adapted to receive each of the plurality of nozzles respectively. The sprinkler device includes at least one control member disposed movably in association with the guide member. The sprinkler device also includes at least one engagement member disposed on one of the guide member and the at least one control member. The sprinkler device further includes a grooved portion provided on other of the guide member and the at least one control member. The at least one engagement member is adapted to engage with the grooved portion such that the at least one control member is adapted to selectively move the guide member along the first lateral axis to selectively tilt at least one of the plurality of nozzles with respect to the second lateral axis within the plurality of slots respectively. Also, the at least one control member is adapted to selectively pivot about an axis, such that the axis is substantially parallel with respect to the first lateral axis. As such, the fluid spray from the nozzle adjacent to the at least one control member moves parallel with respect to the at least one engagement member, in turn, providing an intuitive operation of the sprinkler device to the user. Also, the at least one control member provides a simple and effective method of controlling a position of the guide member via the at least one engagement member and, thus, controlling a spraying pattern of the sprinkler device.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the plane comprising the at least one engagement member (306, 308) is disposed substantially equal to the plane comprising second lateral axis. Thus the nozzles are bend by the guiding member substantially along the longitudinal axis of the base member. As such, a fluid spray from an outermost nozzle moves parallel with respect to the at least one engagement member, in turn, providing the intuitive operation of the sprinkler device to a user.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the at least one engagement member is connected to one of the guide member and the at least one control member using a stem member. As such, the stem member provides a rugged and durable connection between the guide member and the at least one control member.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the at least one engagement member includes a friction member disposed on the at least one engagement member. As such, the friction member provides a sturdy and non slip connection between the at least one engagement member and at least one control member, in turn, providing a solid operation of the sprinkler device to the user. In addition, the friction member also provides a positioning stability, so that the tilt angle of any of the control members are kept relatively stable against any tendency to unintentionally move out of their position.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the friction member is disposed obliquely on the at least one engagement member. As such, the friction member provides maximum surface contact with respect to the at least one control member, in turn, improving usability.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the guide member includes a first engagement member or grooved portion and a second engagement member or grooved portion. Each of the first engagement member or grooved portion and the second engagement member or grooved portion is disposed distally with respect to one another along the longitudinal axis on the guide member. As such, the guide member may be adjusted from distal ends of the sprinkler device, in turn, improving usability and an overall spraying range of the sprinkler device.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the at least one control member includes a first control member and a second control member. Each of the first control member and the second control member is disposed in association with each of the first engagement member and the second engagement member respectively. As such, the guide member may be adjusted from distal ends of the sprinkler device, in turn, improving usability and the overall spraying range of the sprinkler device.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the at least one engagement member or grooved portion is disposed on or in a first end of the guide member. A second end of the guide member is pivotally coupled to the base member. The second end being distal with respect to the first end. As such, the sprinkler device may be easily adjusted from the first end of the guide member, in turn, reducing complexity and improving usability. According to an embodiment of the present invention, the grooved portion has a substantially elevated configuration. As such, the grooved portion may provide an optimized interaction with the associated engagement member.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, each of the plurality of slots is disposed angularly with respect to the first lateral axis. As such, each of the plurality of slots may provide an improved tilting range to each of the plurality of nozzles, in turn, improving the overall spraying range of the sprinkler device.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the at least one control member is pivotally coupled to the base member. As such, the pivotal movement of the at least one control member provides an intuitive control of the sprinkler device to the user.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the at least one engagement member is disposed along the pivoting axis associated with the at least one control member. In case the engagement member is fixed to the guide member and the grooved portion is on the control member it is of advantage that the groove with the grooved portion exhibits a radiant that is proximate similar to its distance to the engagement member when the control member is tilted. As such, a height of the grooved portion may be constant throughout a length of the grooved portion.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the sprinkler device includes a fluid inlet. The fluid inlet is disposed on the base member. The fluid inlet is provided in fluid communication with each of the plurality of nozzles. As such, the fluid inlet provides a simple, plug and play type connection of the sprinkler device to an external fluid source.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the sprinkler device includes a fluid drive. The fluid drive is coupled to the base member. The fluid drive is provided in fluid communication with the fluid inlet. The fluid drive is adapted to oscillate the base member about the longitudinal axis. The oscillatory movement of the base member provides the improved spraying range of the sprinkler device.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the sprinkler device includes a cover member. The cover member is disposed on the base member. The cover member is adapted to, at least partially, enclose the guide member and the at least one control member within the cover member. Accordingly, the cover member provides a simple, efficient, and aesthetic packaging of the components of the sprinkler device.

Other features and aspects of this invention will be apparent from the following description and the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will be described in more detail with reference to the enclosed drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a portion of a sprinkler device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 shows a partial exploded perspective view of the sprinkler device of FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of a guide member of the sprinkler device of FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4A shows an inverted perspective view of a first control member of the sprinkler device of FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4B shows an inverted perspective view of a second control member of the sprinkler device of FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 shows a partial cutaway perspective view of the sprinkler device of FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 6 shows another partial cutaway perspective view of the sprinkler device of FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7A shows a partial cutaway side view of a portion of the sprinkler device of FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7B shows a partial cutaway top view of the portion of the sprinkler device of FIG. 7A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8A shows another partial cutaway side view of the portion of the sprinkler device of FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8B shows a partial cutaway top view of the portion of the sprinkler device of FIG. 8A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9A shows another partial cutaway side view of the portion of the sprinkler device of FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 9B shows a partial cutaway top view of the portion of the sprinkler device of FIG. 9A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

The present invention will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which example embodiments of the invention incorporating one or more aspects of the present invention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. For example, one or more aspects of the present invention can be utilized in other embodiments and even other types of structures and/or methods. In the drawings, like numbers refer to like elements. Certain terminology is used herein for convenience only and is not to be taken as a limitation on the invention. For example,“upper”,“lower”,“front”, “rear”,“side”,“longitudinal”,“lateral”,“transverse”,“upwards”,“downwards”, “forward”, “backward”, “sideward”, “left,” “right,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” “upward”, “inner”, “outer”, “inward”, “outward”, “top”, “bottom”, “higher”, “above”, “below”, “central”, “middle”, “intermediate”, “between”, “end”, “adjacent”, “parallel”, “inclined”, “proximate”, “near”, “distal”, “remote”, “radial”,“circumferential”, or the like, merely describe the configuration shown in the Figures. Indeed, the components may be oriented in any direction and the terminology, therefore, should be understood as encompassing such variations unless specified otherwise.

Referring to FIG. 1, a perspective view of a portion of a sprinkler device 100 is illustrated. The sprinkler device 100 will be hereinafter interchangeably referred to as the“sprinkler 100”. The sprinkler 100 is adapted to distribute fluid, such as water, in a controlled spraying configuration in space surrounding the sprinkler 100. The sprinkler 100 may be used to spray the fluid in spaces, such as fields, lawns, parks, gardens, playgrounds, fountains, and the like. The sprinkler 100 may be employed for various activities, such as gardening, agriculture, decorative water display, and the like.

The sprinkler 100 has a substantially elongated configuration. The sprinkler 100 includes a base member 102. The base member 102 has a substantially elongated configuration. The base member 102 includes a first side 104 and a second side 106. The second side 106 is spaced apart and opposite to the first side 104. The base member 102 defines a longitudinal axis X-X’, a first lateral axis Y-Y’, and a second lateral axis Z-Z’. The longitudinal axis X-X’ extends between the first side 104 and the second side 106. Each of the longitudinal axis X-X’, the first lateral axis Y-Y’, and the second lateral axis Z- Z’ is substantially perpendicular with respect to one another.

The sprinkler 100 includes a cover member 108. The cover member 108 has a substantially elongated configuration. The cover member 108 is mounted on the base member 102. The cover member 108 is adapted to enclose one or more components (discussed later) of the sprinkler 100 mounted on or above the base member 102. The cover member 108 includes multiple openings, such as a first opening 110, a second opening 112, and a third opening 114. In other embodiments, the cover member 108 may include single or multiple openings, based on application requirements. Each of the first opening 110, the second opening 112, and the third opening 114 is adapted to provide access to the one or more components (discussed later) of the sprinkler 100 mounted on the base member 102.

Referring to FIG. 2, a partial exploded view of the sprinkler 100 is illustrated. The sprinkler 100 includes a fluid inlet 202. The fluid inlet 202 is disposed on the base member 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the fluid inlet 202 is disposed on the first side 104 of the base member 102. In other embodiments, the fluid inlet 202 may be disposed on the second side 106 of the base member 102. Also, in the illustrated embodiment, the fluid inlet 202 is disposed axially aligned with respect to the longitudinal axis X-X’. In other embodiments, the fluid inlet 202 may be disposed in any orientation, such as inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis X-X’, axially parallel with respect to any of the first lateral axis Y-Y’ and the second lateral axis Z-Z’, and the like. The fluid inlet 202 is adapted to receive a flow of fluid, such as water, from an external fluid source (not shown).

The sprinkler 100 includes a fluid drive 204. The fluid drive 204 is coupled to the base member 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the fluid drive 204 is disposed on the first side 104 of the base member 102 and adjacent to the fluid inlet 202. In other embodiments, the fluid drive 204 may be disposed on the second side 106 of the base member 102. The fluid drive 204 is provided in fluid communication with the fluid inlet 202. The fluid drive 204 is adapted to receive the flow of fluid from the fluid inlet 202 and oscillate the base member 102 about the longitudinal axis X-X’ based on the flow of fluid. The fluid drive 204 may be any fluid drive employed in oscillating type sprinklers. The sprinkler 100 includes one or more support members, such as a first support member 206 and a second support member 208. The first support member 206 is coupled to the base member 102 on the first side 104. The second support member 208 is coupled to the base member 102 on the second side 106. As such, each of the first support member 206 and the second support member 208 is disposed distally with respect to one another along the longitudinal axis X- X’. Each of the first support member 206 and the second support member 208 is adapted to support the sprinkler 100 on a ground surface. In other embodiments, the sprinkler 100 may include single or multiple support members, based on application requirements.

The sprinkler 100 includes a control valve 210. The control valve 210 is provided in fluid communication with each of the fluid inlet 202 and the fluid drive 204. In the illustrated embodiment, the control valve 210 is disposed on the first support member 206. In other embodiments, the control valve 210 may be disposed on any other location on the sprinkler 100, such as on the base member 102. The control valve 210 is adapted to control the flow of fluid received through the fluid inlet 202. The control valve 210 may be any fluid control valve, such as a gate valve, a ball valve, and the like.

The sprinkler 100 includes a number of nozzles 212. Each of the nozzles 212 is disposed on the base member 102 along the longitudinal axis X-X’. Each of the nozzles 212 is disposed spaced apart and adjacent with respect to one another. Each of the nozzles 212 is disposed extending substantially parallel with respect to the second lateral axis Z-Z’. Each of the nozzles 212 is adapted to selectively tilt with respect to the second lateral axis Z-Z’. Each of the nozzles 212 is provided in fluid communication with the fluid inlet 202 via the fluid drive 204. Accordingly, each of the nozzles 212 is adapted to distribute the flow of fluid in the space surrounding the sprinkler 100. More specifically, each of the nozzles 212 is adapted to distribute the flow of fluid via the third opening 114 provided on the cover member 108.

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the sprinkler 100 includes a guide member 214. The guide member 214 has a substantially elongated configuration. The guide member 214 includes a first end 216 and a second end 218. The second end 218 is spaced apart and opposite to the first end 216. The guide member 214 is movably disposed on the base member 102 along the longitudinal axis X-X’. More specifically, the first end 216 is disposed adjacent to the first side 104 of the base member 102, and the second end 218 is disposed adjacent to the second side 106 of the base member 102. In an assembled position of the sprinkler 100, the guide member 214 is partially enclosed by the cover member 108. The guide member 214 is adapted to selectively move along the first lateral axis Y-Y’ and will be explained in more detail later.

The guide member 214 includes a number of slots 302. Each of the slots 302 is disposed between the first end 216 and the second end 218. Each of the slots 302 is disposed spaced apart and adjacent with respect to one another. More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, each of the slots 302 is disposed on a substantially raised and curved portions 304 of the guide member 214. Also, each of the slots 302 is disposed at an angle“A” with respect to the first lateral axis Y-Y’. In the illustrated embodiment, the angle“A” measures approximately 45 degrees (°). In other embodiments, an actual value of the angle“A” may vary based on application requirements. Each of the slots 302 is adapted to movably receive each of the nozzles 212 respectively.

It is understood, that it is also possible that the guide member 214 can be of different shape (for example having a flat surface) and/or the slots 302 might be disposed of the guide member 214 differently to the depicted example.

The guide member 214 also includes one or more engagement members, such as a first engagement member 306 and a second engagement member 308. The first engagement member 306 is disposed on the first end 216 of the guide member 214. The second engagement member 308 is disposed on the second end 218 of the guide member 214. As such, each of the first engagement member 306 and the second engagement member 308 is disposed distally with respect to one another along the longitudinal axis X-X’. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first engagement member 306 and the second engagement member 308 has a substantially spherical configuration. In other embodiments, one or more of the first engagement member 306 and the second engagement member 308 may have any other configuration, such as elliptical.

Each of the first engagement member 306 and the second engagement member 308 is fixedly coupled to the guide member 214 using a first stem member 310 and a second stem member 312 respectively. Each of the first stem member 310 and the second stem member 312 extends away and substantially perpendicular with respect to the longitudinal axis X-X’. Accordingly, each of the first engagement member 306 and the second engagement member 308 is disposed substantially parallel with respect to the second lateral axis Z-Z’. It should be noted that each of the first stem member 310 and the second stem member 312 described herein is merely exemplary and optional and may vary based on application requirements. For example, in other embodiments, one or more of the first engagement member 306 and the second engagement member 308 may be directly disposed on the guide member 214. In such a situation, one or more of the first stem member 310 and the second stem member 312 may be omitted.

Each of the first engagement member 306 and the second engagement member 308 includes a first friction member 314 and a second friction member 316. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first friction member 314 and the second friction member 316 is disposed obliquely on each of the first engagement member 306 and the second engagement member 308 respectively. More specifically, each of the first friction member 314 and the second friction member 316 is inclined at an angle“B” with respect to the longitudinal axis X-X’. In the illustrated embodiment, the angle“B” measures approximately 45°. In other embodiments, an actual value of the angle“B” may vary based on application requirements. In other embodiments, one or more of the first friction member 314 and the second friction member 316 may be disposed parallel with respect to the longitudinal axis X-X’, such that the angle“B” may measure 0°. Each of the first friction member 314 and the second friction member 316 may be any friction inducing material, such as a rubber strip, an O-ring, a sealing material, and the like. It should be noted that each of the first friction member 314 and the second friction member 316 described herein is merely exemplary and optional and may vary based on application requirements. For example, in some embodiments, the friction member may be provided on any one of the first engagement member 306 and the second engagement member 308. In yet some embodiment, each of the first friction member 314 and the second friction member 316 may be omitted.

Referring to FIGS. 2, 4A and 4B, the guide member 214 includes a number of control members, such as a first control member 220 and a second control member 222, disposed movably in association with the guide member 214. The first control member 220 has a configuration similar to the second control member 222. In the assembled position of the sprinkler 100, each of the first control member 220 and the second control member 222 is partially enclosed by the cover member 108. More specifically, the first control member 220 partially extends from the first opening 110 of the cover member 108, and the second control member 222 extends from the second opening 112 of the cover member 108.

The first control member 220 is disposed adjacent to the first end 216 of the guide member 214. Also, the first control member 220 is pivotally coupled to the first side 104 of the base member 102 via a pair of first arms 406, 408 (also shown in FIG. 2). The second control member 222 is disposed adjacent to the second end 218 of the guide member 214. Also, the second control member 220 is pivotally coupled to the second side 106 of the base member 102 via a pair of second arms 410, 412 (also shown in FIG. 2). Accordingly, each of the first control member 220 and the second control member 222 is adapted to selectively pivot about an axis A-A’ and an axis B-B’ respectively. Each of the axis A-A’ and axis B-B’ is substantially parallel with respect to the first lateral axis Y-Y’. Each of the first control member 220 and the second control member 222 includes a first grooved portion 402 and a second grooved portion 404. Each of the first grooved portion 402 and the second grooved portion 404 has a substantially curved configuration. Each of the first grooved portion 402 and the second grooved portion 404 is disposed at an angle“C” with respect to each of the axis A-A’ and the axis B-B’ respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the angle“C” measures approximately 45°. In other embodiments, an actual value of the angle“C” may vary based on application requirements.

Each of the first control member 220 and the second control member 222 is disposed in association with each of the first engagement member 306 and the second engagement member 308 respectively. More specifically, the first grooved portion 402 of the first control member 220 is disposed in operational engagement with respect to the first engagement member 306 of the guide member 214. Also, the second grooved portion 404 of the second control member 222 is disposed in operational engagement with respect to the second engagement member 308 of the guide member 214.

Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, different partial perspective views of the sprinkler 100 in a partially assembled position are illustrated. For the purpose of clarity and explanation, the cover member 108 is omitted in the accompanying figures. An operation of the sprinkler 100 will now be explained with reference to the first engagement member 306 and the first control member 220. It should be noted that the sprinkler 100 may also be operated using the second engagement member 308 and the second control member 222 in a manner similar to that described below.

Referring to FIG. 5, a first position of the first control member 220 is illustrated. In the first position, the first engagement member 306 is positioned adjacent to a first edge 502 of the first grooved portion 402. During operation, the first control member 220 is adapted to selectively pivot about the axis A-A’, as shown by an arrow 504. Also, based on the movement of the first control member 220 about the axis A-A’, the guide member 214 is adapted to move along the first lateral axis Y-Y’, as shown by an arrow 506. Accordingly, based on the movement of the guide member 214 along the first lateral axis Y-Y’, each of the nozzles 212 is adapted to selectively tilt with respect to the second lateral axis Z-Z’ within each of the slots 302 respectively, as shown by an arrow 508.

Referring to FIG. 6, a second position of the first control member 220 is illustrated. In the second position, the first engagement member 306 is positioned adjacent to a second edge 602 of the first grooved portion 402. As the first control member 220 is selectively pivoted about the axis A-A’ from the first position to the second position, as shown by the arrow 504, the guide member 214 moves along the first lateral axis Y-Y’, as shown by the arrow 506. Accordingly, each of the nozzles 212 selectively tilt with respect to the second lateral axis Z-Z’ within each of the slots 302 respectively, as shown by the arrow 508.

Referring to FIGS. 7A and 7B, different cutaway views of the first control member 220 and the first engagement member 306 in the assembled position are illustrated. In the accompanying figures, the first control member 220 is disposed substantially parallel with respect to the second lateral axis Z-Z’, such that the first engagement member 306 is disposed adjacent to the first edge 502 of the first grooved portion 402. Also, the first engagement member 306 is disposed along the axis A-A’. In such a situation, a height“H” of the first grooved portion 402 may be substantially constant along a length“L” of the first grooved portion 402 for all tilting angles of the first control member 220. Additionally, the base member 102 includes a stop member 702, 703 (also shown in FIGS. 2, 5, 6). The stop member 702 is disposed adjacent to and abutting the first end 216 of the guide member 214. The stop member 703 is disposed adjacent to and abutting the second end 218 of the guide member 214. The stop member 702, 703 limits movement of the guide member 214 along the longitudinal axis X-X’ as shown by an arrow 704 and allows movement along the longitudinal axis X-X’ as shown by an arrow 706. Referring to FIGS. 8A and 8B, different cutaway views of another position of each of the first control member 220 and the first engagement member 306 are illustrated. As the first control member 220 is moved in a direction as shown by an arrow 708, the first control member 220 pivots about the axis A-A’ via the pair of first arms 406, 408. In the accompanying figures, the first control member 220 is pivoted about the axis A-A’, such that an angle“D” measures approximately 10°. Accordingly, the first engagement member 306 moves along the first lateral axis Y-Y’ as shown by an arrow 710, such that the first engagement member 306 is disposed approximately at a center of the first grooved portion 402 between the first edge 502 and the second edge 602.

Referring to FIGS. 9A and 9B, different cutaway views of another position of each of the first control member 220 and the first engagement member 306 are illustrated. As the first control member 220 is moved further in the direction as shown by the arrow 708, the first control member 220 further pivots about the axis A-A’ via the pair of first arms 406, 408. In the accompanying figures, the first control member 220 is pivoted about the axis A-A’, such that the angle“D” measures approximately 20°. Accordingly, the first engagement member 306 moves along the first lateral axis Y-Y’ as shown by the arrow 710, such that the first engagement member 306 is disposed adjacent to the second edge 602 of the first grooved portion 402.

During operation, each of the first control member 220 and the second control member 222 may be independently adjusted with respect to one another. Accordingly, each of the nozzles 212 may be selectively tilted with respect to the second lateral axis Z-Z’ in a manner such that each of the nozzles 212 may have a unique tilting configuration different from that of one another. As such, each of the first control member 220 and the second control member 222 may be adjusted at varying positions, between and including the respective first positions and the respective second positions, to form a variety of spraying patterns by angularly orienting the guide member 214 in a plane (not shown) along the longitudinal axis X-X’. It should be noted that a configuration of the sprinkler 100 described herein is merely exemplary and may vary based on application requirements. For example, in some embodiments, the guide member 214 may include a single engagement member, such as the first engagement member 306. In such a situation, each of the second engagement member 308 and the second control member 222 may be omitted. Accordingly, the second end 218 of the guide member 214 may be pivotally coupled to the second side 106 of the base member 102 using a suitable pivotal connection (not shown). In other embodiments, the guide member 214 may include only the second engagement member 308. In such a situation, the first engagement member 306 and the first control member 220 may be omitted. Accordingly, the first end 216 of the guide member 214 may be pivotally coupled to the first side 104 of the base member 102 using a suitable pivotal connection (not shown).

Also, in the accompanying figures, although the engagement members and the grooved portions are shown on the guide member 214 and the control members respectively, in some embodiments, location of the engagement members and the grooved portions may be interchanged. For example, in some embodiments, the first engagement member 306 may be provided on the first control member 220. In such a situation, the first grooved portion 402 may be provided on the first end 216 of the guide member 214. Additionally, or alternatively, the second engagement member 308 may be provided on the second control member 222. In such a situation, the second grooved portion 404 may be provided on the second end 218 of the guide member 214. Irrespective of the location of the engagement members and the grooved portions being interchanged, an overall functioning and operation of the sprinkler 100 may be similar to that described with reference to the accompanying figures, arrangements, and/or configuration of various components of the sprinkler 100.

In the drawings and specification, there have been disclosed preferred embodiments and examples of the invention and, although specific terms are employed, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for the purpose of limitation of the scope of the invention being set forth in the following claims.

LIST OF ELEMENTS

100 Sprinkler Device / Sprinkler

102 Base Member

104 First Side

106 Second Side

108 Cover Member

110 First Opening

112 Second Opening

114 Third Opening

202 Fluid Inlet

204 Fluid Drive

206 First Support Member

208 Second Support Member

210 Control Valve

212 Nozzle

214 Guide Member

216 First End

218 Second End

220 First Control Member

222 Second Control Member

302 Slot Portion

First Engagement Member

Second Engagement Member

First Stem Member

Second Stem Member

First Friction Member

Second Friction Member

First Grooved Portion

Second Grooved Portion

First Arm

Second Arm

First Edge

Arrow

Second Edge

Stop Member

Arrow 706 Arrow

708 Arrow

710 Arrow

A Angle

B Angle

C Angle

D Angle

H Height

L Length

A-A’ Axis

B-B’ Axis

X-X’ Longitudinal Axis Y-Y’ First Lateral Axis Z-Z’ Second Lateral Axis

Claims

1. A sprinkler device (100) comprising:

a base member (102) defining a longitudinal axis (X-X’), a first lateral axis (Y-Y’), and a second lateral axis (Z-Z’), each of the longitudinal axis (X-X’), the first lateral axis (Y-Y’), and the second lateral axis (Z-Z’) being substantially perpendicular with respect to one another;

a plurality of nozzles (212) disposed on the base member (102), each of the plurality of nozzles (212) adapted to selectively tilt with respect to the second lateral axis (Z-Z’);

a guide member (214) disposed on or above the base member (102), the guide member (214) adapted to selectively move along the first lateral axis (Y-Y’), the guide member (214) including a plurality of slots (302) provided in the guide member (214), each of the plurality of slots (302) disposed spaced apart with respect to one another, each of the plurality of slots (302) adapted to receive each of the plurality of nozzles (212) respectively; and

at least one control member (220, 222) disposed movably in association with the guide member (214);

characterized in that:

at least one engagement member (306, 308) disposed on one of the guide member (214) and the at least one control member (220, 222); and

a grooved portion (402, 404) provided on other of the guide member (214) and the at least one control member (220, 222),

wherein the at least one engagement member (306, 308) is adapted to engage with the grooved portion (402, 404) such that the at least one control member (220, 222) is adapted to selectively move the guide member (214) along the first lateral axis (Y-Y’) to selectively tilt at least one of the plurality of nozzles (212) with respect to the second lateral axis (Z-Z’) within the plurality of slots (302) respectively, and

wherein the at least one control member (220, 222) is adapted to selectively pivot about an axis (A- A’, B-B’), the axis (A-A\ B-B’) being substantially parallel with respect to the first lateral axis (Y-Y’).

2. The sprinkler device (100) of claim 1, wherein the plane comprising the at least one engagement member (306, 308) is disposed substantially equal to the plane comprising second lateral axis (Z-Z’).

3. The sprinkler device (100) of claims 1-2, wherein the at least one engagement member (306, 308) is connected to one of the guide member (214) and the at least one control member (220, 222) using a stem member (310, 312).

4. The sprinkler device (100) of claims 1-3, wherein the at least one engagement member (306, 308) includes a friction member (314, 316) disposed on the at least one engagement member (306, 308).

5. The sprinkler device (100) of claim 4, wherein the friction member (314, 316) is disposed obliquely on the at least one engagement member (306, 308).

6. The sprinkler device (100) of claims 1-5, wherein the guide member (214) includes a first engagement member (306) or grooved portion and a second engagement member (308) or grooved portion, each of the first engagement member (306) or grooved portion and the second engagement member (308) or grooved portion disposed distally with respect to one another along the longitudinal axis of the guide member (214).

7. The sprinkler device (100) of claim 6, wherein the at least one control member (220, 222) includes a first control member (220) and a second control member (222), each of the first control member (220) and the second control member (222) disposed in association with each of the first engagement member (306) and the second engagement member (308) respectively.

8. The sprinkler device (100) of claims 1-5, wherein the at least one engagement member (306, 308) or grooved portion is disposed on a first end (216) of the guide member (214), and wherein a second end (218) of the guide member (214) is pivotally coupled to the base member (102), the second end (218) being distal with respect to the first end (216).

9. The sprinkler device (100) of claims 1-8, wherein the grooved portion (402, 404) has a substantially curved configuration.

10. The sprinkler device (100) of claims 1-9, wherein each of the plurality of slots (302) is disposed angularly with respect to the first lateral axis (Y-

Y’).

11. The sprinkler device (100) of claims 1-10, wherein the at least one control member (220, 222) is pivotally coupled to the base member (102).

12. The sprinkler device (100) of claim 1-11, wherein the at least one engagement member (306, 308) is disposed along the axis (A-A\ B-B’) associated with the at least one control member (220, 222).

13. The sprinkler device (100) of claims 1-12 further includes a fluid inlet (202) disposed on the base member (102), the fluid inlet (202) provided in fluid communication with each of the plurality of nozzles (212).

14. The sprinkler device (100) of claims 1-13 further includes a fluid drive (204) coupled to the base member (102), the fluid drive (204) provided in fluid communication with the fluid inlet (202), the fluid drive (204) adapted to oscillate the base member (102) about the longitudinal axis (X-

X’)·

15. The sprinkler device (100) of claims 1-14 further includes a cover member (108) disposed on the base member (102), the cover member (108) adapted to, at least partially, enclose the guide member (214) and the at least one control member (220, 222) within the cover member

(108).