Segmented Fire Sprinkler Deflector for Adaptive Water Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fire protection sprinkler assemblies either have fixed or translating deflectors, but not both, and their designs often require complex manufacturing and assembly of multiple interconnected components, which can be cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A sprinkler assembly with a deflector assembly that includes a first portion translating relative to the sprinkler frame upon actuation and a second portion remaining fixed, supported by a stanchion-based structure that maintains the thermally responsive trigger and seal assembly under static fluid pressure, allowing for efficient water distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a fixed deflector assembly is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the water distribution pattern is limited and less adaptable
Solution Approach 1:
The deflector assembly is segmented into a fixed portion and a translating portion, allowing each segment to serve different functions. The fixed portion provides structural stability and ease of manufacture, while the translating portion enables adaptable water distribution patterns through movement relative to the sprinkler outlet.
Solution Approach 2:
The deflector assembly incorporates a translating portion that can move dynamically relative to the sprinkler outlet, transforming the static fixed deflector into a dynamic system. This dynamic capability allows the water distribution pattern to be adjusted based on operational conditions while maintaining the simplicity of the fixed portion for manufacturing.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a translating deflector assembly is used, then the water distribution pattern is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the deflector assembly into fixed and translating portions, the patent reduces overall device complexity. The fixed portion maintains structural simplicity while the translating portion provides the necessary adaptability, avoiding the need for a completely complex translating mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the fixed and translating deflector portions into a single integrated assembly that operates together. This combination allows the system to achieve adaptable water distribution through the translating portion while the fixed portion provides structural support, thereby reducing complexity compared to separate systems.
3Reliability
If multiple interconnected components are used, then the functional requirements are met, but the manufacturing and assembly processes become cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The fixed and translating deflector portions are merged into a single integrated assembly that can be manufactured as one unit or pre-assembled together. This merging reduces the number of separate components that need to be manufactured and assembled, thereby improving manufacturing efficiency while maintaining the functional performance of having both fixed and translating elements.
4Ease of manufacture
If a single fixed distance deflector is used, then the manufacturing is simplified, but the adaptability to different spray patterns is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The deflector assembly is divided into fixed and translating segments, where the fixed portion maintains manufacturing simplicity with a single distance configuration, while the translating portion introduces variability in spray patterns through its ability to move to different positions relative to the sprinkler outlet.
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 simplifies the construction and operation of sprinkler assemblies by integrating both fixed and translating deflector functions within a single unit, enhancing water distribution patterns and maintaining structural integrity under varying fluid pressures.
Implementation Method 1
In response to a sufficiently sized fire or other heat source, the thermally responsive trigger actuates thereby releasing the sealing element
Data Source
AI summary
A sprinkler assembly that includes a sprinkler frame, preferably formed from a plastic material and a deflector assembly that translates with respect to the sprinkler frame upon actuation of the sprinkler from an unactuated state. Moreover, the deflector assembly includes a first portion which axially translates relative to the sprinkler outlet in the actuated state of the sprinkler assembly and a second portion that remains fixed with respect to the sprinkler outlet to support a thermally responsive trigger and seal assembly in an unactuated state of the sprinkler assembly.