Sprinkler Escutcheon Installation Tool Remote Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of escutcheons for fire protection sprinklers is time-consuming and costly due to the need for frequent ladder or scaffolding repositioning when multiple sprinklers are involved, as workers must repeatedly climb up and down to install escutcheons around each sprinkler head.
Innovation Solution
An installation tool featuring an elongated extension member and a body portion with an adjustable sleeve and base, allowing the escutcheon to be pressed into engagement with the sprinkler assembly from a distance, enabling remote installation and reducing the need for repeated ladder adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a worker uses a ladder or scaffolding to install escutcheons on multiple sprinklers, then the worker can reach the ceiling openings, but the worker must repeatedly climb down and reposition the ladder or scaffolding for each sprinkler, significantly increasing installation time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an extension member as an intermediary tool that transmits force from the worker's hand at ground level to the escutcheon at ceiling level. This allows the worker to operate from a stable position on the ladder or scaffolding without needing to physically reach or touch the escutcheon, eliminating the need to reposition equipment between sprinklers.
Solution Approach 2:
The installation tool is divided into distinct functional segments: an extension member for reaching ceiling height, a body portion for force application, and a cap portion for escutcheon engagement. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, with the extension member enabling continuous operation from a fixed position.
2Force
If a worker manually installs escutcheons by reaching into ceiling openings, then direct control over installation force is achieved, but the worker must maintain an unstable position on ladders or scaffolding and repeatedly reposition equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The extension member acts as a force transmission intermediary, allowing the worker to apply installation force to the escutcheon remotely from a stable position. The force is transmitted through the extension member and body portion mechanism, providing full force control capability while the worker remains stationary on the ladder or scaffolding.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the direct manual manipulation mechanism with a remote force transmission mechanism. Instead of the worker's hand directly contacting and manipulating the escutcheon, a mechanical system consisting of the extension member, body portion, and cap portion substitutes for direct hand operation, transmitting force through mechanical linkage.
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 tool significantly reduces installation time and cost by allowing operators to install escutcheons from a safe distance, enhancing efficiency and safety by minimizing the need for frequent ladder repositioning and climbs.
Implementation Method 1
The sleeve may threadably receive the base, the sleeve being adjustable relative to the base to selectively arrange the body portion in any one of a plurality of positions
Data Source
AI summary
An installation tool for installing an escutcheon on a sprinkler assembly includes an extension member and a body portion. The body portion may be disposed on an end of the extension member. The body portion may include a sleeve adjustably engaging a base. The body portion may also include a recess adapted to releasably receive an escutcheon. The installation tool is adapted to remotely install the escutcheon to a sprinkler assembly.