Segmented Fire Flap for Round Ducts
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fire protection devices for pipelines, such as those described in DE 101 33 185 A1 and DE 199 38 498 B4, face issues with operational reliability due to complex folding mechanisms that can be impeded by dirt and have an undesirably large construction that obstructs air passage, and butterfly flaps with a central pivot axis impair function at high contamination levels.
Innovation Solution
A fire protection device with a bendable or foldable closure flap consisting of multiple flexurally interconnected segments that fit snugly against a round central part when folded and unfold to form a flat planar flap, minimizing installation space and avoiding the need for rectangular flaps, with pivot axes arranged perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the tubular housing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a complex folding mechanism with multiple rigid panels is used, then fire protection function is achieved, but operational reliability deteriorates due to dirt and jamming
Solution Approach 1:
The closure flap is divided into multiple segments that are flexurally interconnected, allowing each segment to move independently while maintaining overall functionality. This segmentation reduces the complexity of the folding mechanism and improves reliability by preventing complete failure due to dirt or jamming in any single segment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a flexible closure flap made of bendable material that can fold and unfold smoothly. This flexible design eliminates complex rigid folding mechanisms with multiple hinges and connections, thereby improving operational reliability by reducing points of failure from dirt accumulation and mechanical jamming.
2Reliability
If a large construction with side-mounted folding mechanism is used, then fire protection is provided, but air passage is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The pivot axis of the closure flap is moved from the side of the pipe socket into the wall area of the tubular housing, effectively changing the spatial dimension of the mechanism. This repositioning allows the folding mechanism to be contained within the wall thickness, minimizing obstruction to the air passage while maintaining fire protection functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a round cross-section design for the central part of the tubular housing, which accommodates the folding mechanism more efficiently than a rectangular design. This curved geometry allows the closure flap to fold within the circular wall area, reducing protrusion into the air passage and maintaining better airflow characteristics.
3Shape
If a rectangular closure flap is used, then it fits rectangular housing, but it cannot fit round wall cross-section
Solution Approach 1:
The closure flap is divided into multiple segments that can flex and adapt to different geometries. This segmentation allows the closure flap to conform to a round wall cross-section when folded, while still being able to unfold to form a complete closure across the circular opening, providing versatility for round housing designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the closure flap system by using a flexible, segmented design that can alter its shape between folded and unfolded states. This allows the closure flap to adapt to the round cross-section of the tubular housing, providing compatibility with circular geometries rather than being restricted to rectangular forms.
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 provides a reliable and cost-effective fire protection system that maintains airflow while being resistant to dirt and contamination, ensuring seamless operation and reduced structural height, with the flexible segments and intumescent materials enhancing functionality and durability.
Implementation Method 1
which is provided with elastic properties in order to fully unfold and unfold in the functional state (pivoted down position)
Implementation Method 2
Fire protection devices for pipelines often use intumescent materials or panels, which expand when exposed to heat
Data Source
AI summary
The device has a tripping device moving valvular closure devices i.e. locking caps (5, 6), in a closed position according to fusion of a preventer mechanism (11). An upper part, lower part (2) and a middle part (4) of housing are round profiled, where the middle part incorporates the locking caps. The locking caps lie parallel to a round bent wall of the housing. The locking caps are formed in a flexible or foldable manner, and have a shape adapted to the round bent wall in a highly rotatable idle position and a straight extending surface in a deviated operating position.