Fire Sprinkler Sensor Receptacle for Freezing Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing monitoring systems for fire sprinkler systems lack a practical and economical method to monitor real-time fluid accumulation and temperature within piping systems without altering the fluid dynamics, posing a risk of system failure due to freezing conditions in dry fire sprinkler systems.
Innovation Solution
A sensor receptacle assembly with multiple ports for integrating sensors to detect fluid accumulation and temperature, which can be attached to dry fire sprinkler systems at low points, transmitting data in real-time to alert for potential freezing hazards without disrupting the system's operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sensors are integrated into the piping system to monitor fluid accumulation and temperature, then early detection of freezing hazards is improved, but the fluid dynamics of the system may be altered
Solution Approach 1:
A sensor receptacle assembly serves as an intermediary device that interfaces with the piping system through port connection rather than direct integration. This mediator allows sensor placement in proximity to the fluid flow path for accurate detection of fluid accumulation and temperature, while the receptacle structure itself prevents direct interference with the fluid dynamics of the main piping system
Solution Approach 2:
The monitoring function is segmented from the main piping system through a separate sensor receptacle assembly. This segmentation allows the sensing components to be positioned independently at low points in the system where fluid accumulation occurs, enabling localized monitoring without requiring modification of the main fluid flow path
2Reliability
If monitoring systems are installed to detect fluid accumulation in real-time, then system safety is improved, but the complexity of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor receptacle assembly is designed as a universal interface that can accommodate multiple types of sensors (fluid level sensors, temperature sensors) through standardized port connections. This multi-functional receptacle structure provides a single integration point for various monitoring functions, reducing overall system complexity compared to installing separate monitoring devices at multiple locations
Solution Approach 2:
The receptacle assembly acts as an intermediary that simplifies system integration by providing a pre-configured mounting structure and connection interface. Rather than directly integrating sensors into the piping system which would require complex modifications, the receptacle mediates between the sensors and the piping system, offering a standardized interface that reduces installation and maintenance complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor assembly for monitoring any fluid accumulation, temperature, and other properties, characteristics and conditions of the fluid in the dry portion of a life safety fire sprinkler system. The sensor assembly includes a sensor receptacle, an initial fluid level accumulation sensor, a fluid temperature sensor, and at least one upper fluid level accumulation sensor. The sensor assembly can transmit data in real time through a transmitter assembly to a controller and based upon programmed criteria and interact in real time, with other devices. For example, if the sensor assembly detects an amount of condensed fluid in the system and a temperature of the condensed fluid is below a programmed value (e.g., ≤38.0° F.), the system can send an alarm in real time that the system could be experiencing a potential fluid freezing event which could be detrimental to the sprinkler system.