Flexible Hose Sprinkler Adapter for Tool-Free Sealed Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sprinkler systems require complex and tool-dependent installation procedures, which can be time-consuming and expose components to damage during installation, especially when using flexible hoses for positioning sprinklers away from piping systems.
Innovation Solution
A sprinkler system design featuring a flexible hose fitting with a gasket and adapter that allows for tool-free connection and sealing, utilizing a gasket with a Shore hardness between 50 and 80 durometers and specific thread pitch and flange heights to facilitate rapid, secure installation without overtightening, and enabling flexible placement without overhead tool manipulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional sprinkler systems use rigid piping and standard connection methods, then structural stability and sealing reliability are maintained, but installation complexity increases and requires tools and multiple steps
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into separate modular components: a sprinkler body with external threads, a fitting with internal threads and a separate gasket, and an optional adapter. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies installation by enabling separate handling and assembly of parts without requiring complex tool-based procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
A gasket is introduced as an intermediary sealing element between the sprinkler body and the fitting. This gasket mediator provides the sealing function that would otherwise require complex threaded sealing mechanisms, simplifying the connection process while maintaining sealing reliability. The gasket can be compressed between the two components to create a fluid-tight seal without requiring additional sealing tools or procedures.
2Adaptability or versatility
If flexible hoses are used to position sprinklers away from piping systems, then installation flexibility and positioning freedom improve, but installation time increases and components are exposed to damage risk
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is designed with pre-configured threading and sealing surfaces that are ready for direct connection. The gasket is pre-positioned on either the sprinkler body or the fitting, eliminating the need for on-site gasket installation or alignment adjustments. This preliminary preparation of connection interfaces allows for rapid connection of flexible hoses without requiring additional installation time or exposing components to prolonged handling and damage risk.
Solution Approach 2:
The gasket is designed as a simple, replaceable sealing element that can be quickly installed and discarded if necessary. This approach allows for rapid replacement or adjustment of sealing components during installation without requiring complex tools or procedures, reducing overall installation time while maintaining sealing integrity throughout the system's operation.
3Reliability
If standard gaskets and connection methods are used, then sealing is achieved, but overtightening occurs and component damage is possible
Solution Approach 1:
The gasket is designed to self-regulate the connection tightness through its material properties and geometric configuration. As the sprinkler body and fitting are brought together, the gasket compresses uniformly between the two components, automatically limiting the maximum compression force to prevent overtightening. This self-regulating mechanism eliminates the need for precise torque control or special tools, while reliably preventing component damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The gasket's Shore hardness is specifically selected to optimize the balance between sealing capability and protection against overtightening. A gasket that is too soft would deform excessively and potentially damage components, while a gasket that is too hard would not provide adequate sealing. By carefully selecting the gasket's durometer within a specific range, the system achieves reliable sealing while inherently limiting the forces transmitted to the connected components, preventing overtightening damage.
4Reliability
If complex installation procedures are used to ensure proper sealing and alignment, then connection reliability is improved, but installation speed and safety are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function is extracted from the threaded connection mechanism and assigned to a separate gasket component. This extraction allows the threading to focus solely on mechanical connection and alignment, while the gasket handles the sealing function. As a result, installers do not need to perform complex sealing procedures or use specialized tools, enabling rapid installation while maintaining reliable sealing through the dedicated gasket component.
Data Source
AI summary
A sprinkler system includes a fitting and a sprinkler. The fitting includes a hose and at least one adapter coupled with the hose. The at least one adapter includes a first engagement member and a receiver adjacent to the first engagement member. The receiver has a greater inner diameter than the first engagement member. The sprinkler includes a body, at least one flange extending from the body, and a second engagement member extending from the at least one flange.