Snap-Fit Sprinkler Riser Extension Kit for No-Dig Elevation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for elevating pop-up sprinklers buried by soil and grass growth are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and risk introducing debris into irrigation lines, while model-specific solutions are inefficient and cumbersome.

Innovation Solution

A universal sprinkler riser extension kit comprising a gripping head and riser extension that can be stacked to elevate sprinkler height, featuring snap-fit pawls for easy attachment and debris clearance, and threaded connections for secure installation without digging or cutting.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Length of stationary object

If conventional methods are used to elevate sprinklers by digging and cementing riser extensions, then the sprinkler height can be increased, but the installation becomes labor intensive and time consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveriser heightVSAvoidinstallation time

Core Design Contradiction:

Length of stationary objectVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The riser extension is divided into multiple stackable sections that can be assembled in place. Each section contains a gripping head with pawls that snap onto the previous section, allowing modular assembly without requiring complete removal and cementing of the entire riser.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The gripping head with pawls acts as an intermediary mechanism between the riser sections. The pawls engage with the gripping head of the previous section to provide secure mechanical connection, eliminating the need for cementing and reducing installation complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Length of stationary object

If conventional methods are used to elevate sprinklers by digging and cementing riser extensions, then the sprinkler height can be increased, but the process becomes labor intensive

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveriser heightVSAvoidinstallation ease

Core Design Contradiction:

Length of stationary objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The riser extension system is designed to be self-assembling through the snap-fit pawl mechanism. The gripping heads automatically align and secure to the previous section when pushed together, eliminating the need for specialized tools, cementing, or complex manual assembly procedures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The gripping head design with pawls is universal and works with multiple makes and models of sprinkler heads. The same gripping head configuration can accommodate different sprinkler types, making the riser extension kit adaptable to various existing installations without requiring model-specific solutions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Length of stationary object

If conventional methods are used to elevate sprinklers by digging and cementing riser extensions, then the sprinkler height can be increased, but there is risk of introducing debris into the irrigation line

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveriser heightVSAvoiddebris contamination

Core Design Contradiction:

Length of stationary objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The riser extension sections are pre-assembled with the gripping heads and pawls already in place, creating a closed system that prevents debris entry. The snap-fit mechanism ensures proper alignment and sealing before installation, preventing debris from entering the irrigation line during the elevation process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

4Length of stationary object

If model-specific riser solutions are used, then the sprinkler can be elevated, but the installation becomes cumbersome and inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveriser heightVSAvoidinstallation complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Length of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS20250262635A1Sprinkler riser extension kit

Publication Date: 2025.08.21 KETTERLING KODY J

AI summary

A sprinkler riser extension kit elevates a pop-up sprinkler that has a riser and a head detachable from the riser. The kit includes a gripping head having a channel extending therethrough, and a riser extension configured to slide within the channel and having a length corresponding to the length of the channel. The lower end of the gripping head is configured for attachment to the sprinkler, e.g., by a plurality of flexible pawls spaced evenly about the lower end. The riser extension includes means for attachment between the sprinkler head and the sprinkler riser. To elevate the sprinkler, the head is detached, the riser passed through the gripping head, the riser extension attached to the riser, the head attached to the riser extension, and the gripping head attached to the top of the sprinkler.