Push-In Fire Sprinkler Connection for Fast Leak-Resistant Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fire protection sprinkler systems require multiple connections, increasing installation time and the likelihood of leakage, and are labor-intensive due to threaded connections, which are also not easily adaptable for grooved connections without additional components.
Innovation Solution
A fire protection sprinkler with a push-in connection system that uses sealing gaskets and a retainer mechanism, allowing for a secure and efficient connection to a welded or mechanical outlet, reducing the need for multiple connections and simplifying the installation process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional threaded connections are used to connect sprinklers to conduits, then the connection is secure and reliable, but the installation time increases and labor intensity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional threaded mechanical connection system with a push-in connection system that uses a retainer mechanism and sealing gasket. The retainer engages with the conduit to provide secure mechanical attachment without threading, while the gasket provides sealing. This substitution eliminates the time-consuming threading operation while maintaining connection reliability through the retainer's engagement with the conduit's external threads or grooves.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and eliminates the threaded portion from the sprinkler body, replacing it with a push-in connection interface. By removing the threading requirement from the sprinkler, the installation process is simplified to a push-in motion followed by retainer engagement, significantly reducing installation time while maintaining secure connection through the retainer mechanism.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple connections (sprig-up and threaded connection) are used for upright sprinklers, then the sprinkler can be properly mounted, but the number of components increases and the likelihood of leakage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the mounting function and connection function into a single integrated push-in connection mechanism. The retainer simultaneously provides mechanical attachment to the conduit and positions the sprinkler body, eliminating the need for separate sprig-up components. This consolidation reduces the number of connection points from two (sprig-up + threaded connection) to one (push-in connection with retainer), thereby reducing leakage risk.
Solution Approach 2:
The push-in connection with retainer mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical attachment, positioning, and sealing in a single integrated system. The retainer engages with the conduit to provide secure mounting while the integrated gasket provides sealing, eliminating the need for separate mounting and connection components and reducing potential leakage points.
3Strength
If threaded connections are used for sprinkler installation, then secure attachment is achieved, but the complexity of the installation process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the threading operation from the installation process by providing a sprinkler body without external threads. The attachment strength is maintained through the retainer mechanism that engages with the conduit's internal features, while the installation complexity is reduced by eliminating the need to cut, clean, and thread the conduit.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the complex threaded connection system with a simpler push-in mechanism followed by retainer engagement. The retainer provides mechanical attachment strength through engagement with the conduit's external threads or grooves, while the installation process is simplified to a straightforward push-in motion without requiring threading tools or operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A sprinkler with a push-in connection includes a sprinkler frame, an operating element, and a sealing cap. The sprinkler also includes one or more sealing gaskets and a retainer. Each such sealing gasket is located at least partially within a groove in the sprinkler frame. The retainer is also at least partially located within a groove in the sprinkler frame. The retainer connects to an internal bore of an outlet of a fluid supply conduit when the sprinkler is installed in the outlet. The one or more gaskets seal against the internal bore of the outlet when the sprinkler is installed in the outlet. The retainer is a spring mechanism so that the diameter of the retainer is reduced when the sprinkler is inserted into the internal bore of the outlet, and the retainer maintains pressure against the outlet internal bore.