Hello all,
I would like to create a stream of water droplets falling down. Preferably the droplets must be about 2-3cm apart and about 20-30 droplets visible at a time.
What kind of mechanism can I use to generate a stream of water droplets?
I know I can vary the input voltage by PWMing 12v supply via a power MOSFET, but what should i use? A diaphragm pump or a solenoid valve? Will I be able to switch the solenoid valve fast enough to generate that many drops with 2-5 cm apart distance?
Thanks
30 droplets that start at 2cm apart will require a fall of more than 60cm. And as the droplets accelerate under the force of gravity the distance between them will increase.
If you study the behaviour of droplets from a dripping tap you will see that the interval between them depends on the rate of flow of the water. I suspect all you need is a supply of water and a valve that can be set to allow a very slow dribble of water.
Perhaps you could use a servo controlled by an Arduino to alter the valve position for different flow rates.
...R
So I guess I can opt for 12V solenoid valve. Don't have it, would have to buy it.
Sorry but didn't quite get it how can I change the flow rate using a servo motor?
I read somewhere that while using a solenoid valve, one has to have some pressure in the water inlet, is that true? Can't I use stationary still container water to create droplet stream?
ritesht93:
Sorry but didn't quite get it how can I change the flow rate using a servo motor?
Cheap method...
drill small hole though wood end of a pencil.
Attach wood end of pencil to servo arm with twist tie.
Position servo with hot glue os that when extended it pushes rubber end to bottom of container.
drill small hole in bottom of your container were rubber tip hits.
You now have a servo controlled flow rate..
Robin2:
30 droplets that start at 2cm apart will require a fall of more than 60cm. And as the droplets accelerate under the force of gravity the distance between them will increase.If you study the behaviour of droplets from a dripping tap you will see that the interval between them depends on the rate of flow of the water. I suspect all you need is a supply of water and a valve that can be set to allow a very slow dribble of water.
Perhaps you could use a servo controlled by an Arduino to alter the valve position for different flow rates.
...R
And it also depends on the surface tension of the water, which depends on the temperature and the purity of the water.
Paul
I searched on google some time ago, and there are several interesting examples to explore.
Try computer controlled water drops...
I can’t remember the search terms, but as Paul suggested, there are several variables you need to manage to ensure a well controlled stream.
ritesht93:
Sorry but didn't quite get it how can I change the flow rate using a servo motor?
There are different ways.
Get a valve and use the servo to turn it. You will only need a small amount of motion to vary the flow rate for droplets.
Get some soft rubber or plastic tubing and use the servo to pinch it closed.
...R
