Branch Connector Sealing for Fire Sprinkler Flow Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing branch connectors for fire protection systems are complex and labor-intensive to install, often requiring sealing tapes or putty and can restrict fluid flow, impacting sprinkler performance.
Innovation Solution
A simplified branch connector design featuring a unitary tubular member with an internal gasket chamber and an annular seal member, allowing for a fluid-tight seal without the need for external sealing materials and minimizing fluid flow restriction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional branch connectors with tapered threads and external sealing are used, then fluid-tight sealing can be achieved, but the installation becomes labor-intensive and requires additional sealing materials
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the external sealing materials (tape or putty) from the installation process by integrating the sealing function into the connector itself through an internal annular seal member that forms a seal with the sprinkler body, eliminating the need for separate sealing materials and reducing installation complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an internal annular seal member as an intermediary element between the connector and sprinkler that creates a fluid-tight seal without requiring external materials, serving as a built-in mediator that simplifies the connection process
2Ease of operation
If traditional branch connectors with annular shelves are used, then conduit support is achieved, but fluid flow restriction occurs impacting sprinkler performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the annular shelf structure from the connector design, eliminating the source of fluid flow restriction while maintaining conduit support through alternative means, thereby restoring full fluid flow rate to the sprinkler
3Reliability
If multiple components and sealing materials are used in branch connectors, then sealing reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sealing function and connector structure into a single integrated unit with an internal annular seal member, merging multiple previously separate components (connector, seal, support structure) into one simplified assembly that maintains reliability while reducing complexity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables a more efficient and sustainable installation process while ensuring adequate fluid flow to fire protection devices, enhancing their performance and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
a preferred internal gasket chamber formed between the threaded and fluid intake portions to house an annular seal member
Data Source
AI summary
Fire protection systems and methods having piping interconnections for connecting a fire protection device to a fluid source. The piping interconnections include a branch connector connected to a pipe header. The branch connector includes a tubular member and an internal annular seal member housed in an internal gasket chamber of the tubular member. The tubular member includes an internal stepless surface between a terminal end of the tubular member and the internal gasket chamber.