Sprinkler Head Removal Tool With Segmented Teeth
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing removal and installation devices for sprinkler heads are inefficient due to lack of a suitable mechanism for secure engagement and easy manipulation, particularly for sprinkler heads positioned below grade.
Innovation Solution
A tube with a closed first end and an open second end, featuring teeth for engaging with sprinkler head grooves and a centrally positioned aperture for a socket wrench drive, allowing for secure insertion and easy removal or installation of sprinkler heads, including an optional extension for inaccessible positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing removal and installation devices are used for sprinkler heads, then basic removal function is achieved, but efficiency and ease of operation are insufficient due to lack of secure engagement mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The tube is segmented with multiple teeth around its circumference, allowing selective engagement with different groove configurations on sprinkler heads. This segmentation enables the single device to handle various sprinkler head types efficiently
Solution Approach 2:
The tube acts as an intermediary tool between the user and the sprinkler head. It provides secure engagement through teeth-groove interaction and transmits rotational force from the socket wrench to the sprinkler head, solving the problem of inefficient direct manipulation
2Adaptability or versatility
If sprinkler heads are positioned below grade, then installation is achieved, but accessibility and ease of manipulation are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The device extends the manipulation dimension by providing a long tube structure that reaches into confined below-grade spaces. The tube's length allows the user to operate from above ground level while engaging sprinkler heads positioned below grade, solving accessibility issues
3Reliability
If a secure engagement mechanism is implemented with teeth and grooves, then reliability of engagement is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tube features localized teeth at its end rather than complex mechanisms throughout the entire device. This local quality approach provides secure engagement exactly where needed (at the sprinkler head interface) while keeping the rest of the device simple
Solution Approach 2:
The socket wrench aperture provides universal functionality by accepting standard socket wrenches, eliminating the need for proprietary or complex fastening mechanisms. This universal interface simplifies the overall device complexity while maintaining reliable force transmission
Data Source
AI summary
A sprinkler head removal and installation device includes a tube that has a first end, which is closed, and a second end that is open. The tube has an inner diameter that is complementary to a diameter of a set of groves that is positioned in a top of a sprinkler head. Each of a plurality of teeth is coupled to and extends from the second end of the tube is configured to be inserted into a respective groove of the set of grooves as the top of a sprinkler head is partially inserted into the tube through the second end. An aperture that is centrally positioned in the first end of the tube is configured for insertion of a drive of a socket wrench, positioning a user to selectively turn the socket wrench to remove and install the sprinkler head.