Biodegradable Sprinkler Protector for Transit Damage Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sprinkler protection devices made of plastic are difficult to dispose of and recycle, posing environmental challenges, and they can damage sprinklers during transportation and installation.
Innovation Solution
The use of biodegradable materials, such as paper pulp, to create foldable sprinkler protection devices that can be easily installed and removed, providing protection to sprinklers during transit and installation, and can be recycled or composted after use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If plastic materials are used for sprinkler protection devices, then protection strength and durability are improved, but environmental friendliness and recyclability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from conventional plastic to biodegradable materials such as molded pulp, paperboard, or biodegradable polymers. This material substitution maintains adequate protection strength while eliminating the environmental harm associated with plastic disposal, allowing the protection device to decompose naturally or be recycled easily after use.
2Reliability
If complex fastening mechanisms are used to secure sprinklers, then reliability of fixation is improved, but ease of installation and removal deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The protection device is segmented into modular components including side walls, end walls, and fastening elements that can be independently assembled and disassembled. This segmentation allows simple snap-fit or interlocking fastening mechanisms that provide reliable fixation during transport while enabling quick installation and removal without complex tools or procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs simple, inexpensive fastening mechanisms such as snap-fits, tabs, or friction-based connectors that are designed for single-use or limited-use cycles. These fasteners provide sufficient reliability for the protection period but are easily removed and discarded, eliminating the need for complex reusable fastening systems and simplifying the installation/removal process.
3Strength
If rigid protection structures are used, then protection effectiveness is improved, but adaptability to different sprinkler shapes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The protection device utilizes thin-walled but structurally efficient geometries such as corrugated panels, ribbed structures, or arched forms that provide high strength-to-weight ratios. These thin-walled structures can elastically deform to accommodate different sprinkler shapes and sizes while maintaining protection effectiveness, and the device can be manufactured in various standard sizes to fit different sprinkler types.
Solution Approach 2:
The protection device is designed with universal features such as adjustable fastening points, modular wall sections, or expandable structures that can adapt to different sprinkler configurations. A single design can protect multiple sprinkler types (different diameters, shapes, or mounting orientations) through simple adjustment or reconfiguration, eliminating the need for completely different protection devices for each sprinkler variant.
Data Source
AI summary
At least one aspect is directed to a removable sprinkler protection device. The removable sprinkler protection device can include a foldable unitary member. The foldable unitary member can include a first portion having a first extension, a second extension, a third extension, or a fourth extension. The foldable unitary member can include a second portion having a fifth extension, a sixth extension, or a seventh extension. The fourth extension can be disposed at least partially between the first portion and the second portion. The seventh extension can include a tab. The first portion or the second portion can include an opening. The foldable unitary member can be made from at least partially of a biodegradable material.