Sprinkler Protective Cover With Torque-Assist Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing protective devices for fire protection sprinklers interfere with proper wrench engagement and torque application, making it difficult to form a fluid tight seal during installation, and there is a need for a device that can protect the sprinkler during storage, transport, and installation while facilitating torque transfer.
Innovation Solution
A protective installation device with a tubular body and torque assist features, including external and internal rotational drive formations, that allows for axial receipt of the sprinkler and facilitates hand torque application to form a fluid tight connection with branch connectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a protective cover is placed over the sprinkler to protect during storage and transport, then the sprinkler is protected from damage, but the protective cover interferes with wrench engagement and torque application
Solution Approach 1:
The protective device is divided into two functional segments: a protective cover portion that shields the sprinkler during storage/transport, and a torque assist feature portion that enables wrench engagement during installation. This segmentation allows each portion to fulfill its specific function without interfering with the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The torque assist feature acts as an intermediary between the wrench and the sprinkler. It provides a dedicated engagement surface that transfers torque from the wrench to the sprinkler body, eliminating the need for the wrench to directly engage with the sprinkler threads while still achieving proper torque application.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a protective device is used during installation, then the sprinkler is protected, but it becomes difficult to form a fluid tight seal due to interference with torque application
Solution Approach 1:
The torque assist feature serves as a mediator that enables reliable torque transfer from the installation tool to the sprinkler. By providing a dedicated engagement surface, it ensures that sufficient torque is applied to form a fluid tight seal while the protective cover continues to shield the sprinkler body.
Solution Approach 2:
The protective device is designed with the torque assist feature integrated in advance, preparing the system for proper torque application during installation. This preliminary design ensures that when installation occurs, the necessary torque can be applied effectively to form the seal without requiring the protective cover to be removed.
3Ease of operation
If the protective cover is removed to apply torque, then torque application is facilitated, but the sprinkler is exposed to damage during storage and transport
Solution Approach 1:
The protective cover and torque assist feature are merged into a single integrated device. The torque assist feature is formed as part of the protective cover structure, allowing both protection and torque application functions to coexist without requiring removal of the protective element.
Data Source
AI summary
A device and method of protecting and installing a fire protection sprinkler. The device includes a tubular cap that axially receives the sprinkler. The device also includes torque assist features including an external rotational drive feature and an internal rotational drive feature.