Sprinkler Mounting Coupling with Pivot Jaw for Preassembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sprinkler support systems require additional torque and readjustment to align the sprinkler properly with the ceiling or wall surface, and the reducing coupling must be inserted from above or behind the wall due to its larger size, making preassembly and installation cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
A mounting coupling with an inner and outer bracket system that allows preassembly of the sprinkler with the flexible hose and reducing coupling, featuring pivot jaws that can be opened for secure mounting from either side, enabling easier and faster installation with a single adjusting screw.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the reducing coupling is inserted from above the ceiling or behind the wall, then the connection can be made, but the installation process becomes more difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting coupling is designed to receive the reducing coupling from below the ceiling or wall surface, inverting the traditional insertion direction. The opening of the mounting coupling is positioned at the bottom, allowing the reducing coupling to be inserted upward through the mounting bracket, eliminating the need to work from above the ceiling or behind the wall.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting coupling incorporates a movable jaw mechanism that can open and close to accommodate the reducing coupling. The jaw is biased by a spring and can be manually opened to receive the reducing coupling, then automatically closes to secure it, providing dynamic adaptation during installation.
2Reliability
If the sprinkler is assembled to the mounting bracket with additional torque, then the connection is secured, but the sprinkler position requires readjustment to align properly
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting coupling features a movable jaw that can be opened to allow insertion of the reducing coupling with the sprinkler already attached to the flexible hose. This dynamic opening mechanism eliminates the need to apply additional torque and readjust the sprinkler position, as the coupling can be inserted in one motion while properly aligned.
3Strength
If the connection end of the flexible hose is larger than the opening in the mounting coupling, then the connection is secure, but the reducing coupling cannot pass through the assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting coupling employs a movable jaw mechanism that can open to a sufficient width to accommodate the reducing coupling and flexible hose connection end. Once the components are inserted, the spring-biased jaw automatically closes to secure the connection, providing both the necessary opening size and secure closure.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting coupling is designed with a nested structure where the reducing coupling is received within the mounting bracket assembly. The flexible hose connection end passes through the opening and is secured by the movable jaw, creating a nested arrangement that accommodates components of varying sizes.
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
Facilitates easier and faster sprinkler installation by allowing preassembly of the sprinkler head and reducing coupling, enabling insertion from either above or below the ceiling/wall, and secure locking with reduced manufacturing complexity and cost.
Implementation Method 1
A threaded fastener is engaged with the threaded aperture of the outer bracket and is engaged with the inner bracket to apply a securing force to the mounting coupling
Implementation Method 2
The at least one jaw being adapted to engage one of a sprinkler head and a sprinkler coupling, such as a reducing coupling
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting coupling for a fire sprinkler support system includes an adjustable opening for receiving a sprinkler reducer coupling that allows insertion of the sprinkler coupling into the mounting coupling with a sprinkler head assembled thereto. The mounting coupling can be securely engaged to the reducer coupling and fixed to a support bar of the sprinkler support system using a single fastener thereby providing improved installation and functionality.