Hinged Fire Sprinkler Guard with Latched Cage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sprinkler guards often interfere with the fluid distribution pattern of fire protection sprinklers and present complex installation challenges, particularly due to their design and requirement for specific tools.
Innovation Solution
A sprinkler guard with a cylindrical structure featuring two hinged guard portions that pivot to form a closed cage structure, minimizing interference with the spray pattern and providing a flexible, simplified installation method by using a latched configuration and wire members for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a traditional caged sprinkler guard is installed, then the sprinkler is protected from impact, but the guard interferes with the fluid distribution spray pattern
Solution Approach 1:
The guard is divided into a first guard portion and a second guard portion that can be independently positioned. The first portion protects the upper sprinkler components while the second portion is positioned below the deflection member to minimize spray interference, allowing each segment to serve its protective function without obstructing the fluid distribution pattern
Solution Approach 2:
The guard structure transitions from a traditional solid cage to a configuration with radial openings and wire member grids that allow fluid passage. This dimensional change in the guard's structure enables protection while maintaining spray pattern integrity by allowing fluid to pass through the guard in directions that do not interfere with the intended spray distribution
2Ease of operation
If a traditional sprinkler guard with single open end is used, then installation is straightforward, but flexibility and adaptability during installation are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The guard incorporates a hinged connection between the first and second guard portions, allowing the structure to dynamically open and close. This dynamic capability enables the guard to be opened for installation, closed for protection, and adjusted to accommodate different sprinkler orientations and installation environments, significantly improving installation flexibility while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The guard features localized functional zones with different properties: the first guard portion has a grid of wire members for protection, the second guard portion has radial openings for minimal spray interference, and the hinged connection provides flexible positioning. This local differentiation allows each part to contribute to both simplicity and flexibility in the installation process
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a solid cage structure is used, then maximum protection is provided, but the structure complexity and material usage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The guard employs a porous-like structure with radial openings and wire member grids instead of solid cage walls. This allows the guard to provide protection from lateral impacts while reducing structural complexity and material usage, as the openings permit fluid passage and reduce the amount of material needed compared to a solid cage design
Solution Approach 2:
The guard structure is segmented into discrete wire members arranged in grids and radial patterns, rather than continuous solid walls. This segmentation reduces overall structural complexity while maintaining protection capabilities, as the segmented wire structure provides impact resistance with less material than a solid cage would require
Data Source
AI summary
Sprinkler guards to protect fire protection sprinklers in their installed and operative positions. A fire protection sprinkler guard includes a structure with a hinged arrangement to flexibly receive a fire protection sprinkler. A latch connection operates in combination with the hinge of the guard to form a rigid cage structure to shield and protect the sprinkler.