In-Wall Sprinkler Pipe Bracket for Lateral Position Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for securing in-wall fire sprinkler line piping fail to prevent lateral displacement, leading to improper recessed depths and non-code-compliant spray patterns, resulting in costly and inefficient repairs.
Innovation Solution
A bracket system comprising a center panel, side flaps, and a pipe guide that fits within a ceiling track, secured by a swivel ring and threaded rod, preventing side-to-side movement of the sprinkler pipe and maintaining the desired depth.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a swivel ring is used to support the sprinkler pipe, then the pipe can be hung at the proper location, but the pipe is not protected against side-to-side movement and may be laterally displaced
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is divided into two functional components: the swivel ring for hanging and positioning the pipe, and the bracket for preventing lateral displacement. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in one function, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket acts as an intermediary element between the ceiling track and the sprinkler pipe. It provides the lateral protection function that the swivel ring cannot provide, while working together with the swivel ring to achieve both ease of installation and reliability.
2Device complexity
If the sprinkler pipe is not secured against lateral movement, then installation is simpler, but the sprinkler head depth becomes improper and spray pattern is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket is pre-installed in the ceiling track before the sprinkler pipe is hung. This preliminary action establishes the proper lateral position and depth for the sprinkler head, ensuring code compliance is built into the installation from the start rather than requiring later adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket serves as an intermediary that translates the ceiling track position into the correct sprinkler head depth and lateral position, ensuring manufacturing precision without complicating the overall installation process.
3Reliability
If the sprinkler pipe is laterally displaced, then additional repairs are required, but these repairs cause cost increases and project delays
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket provides beforehand protection by preventing lateral displacement of the sprinkler pipe before problems can occur. This prior cushioning against potential failures eliminates the need for costly and time-consuming repairs later in the project.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket provides continuous mechanical feedback by maintaining constant contact with the sprinkler pipe, preventing lateral displacement through physical constraint rather than relying on installer attention or subsequent repairs.
Data Source
AI summary
A bracket for securing fire sprinkler line piping is provided which includes a center panel with attached first and second side flaps positioned at approximately 90 degrees to the center panel. The bracket is insertable between the sidewalls of a ceiling track and sprinkler line pipe is engaged into the pipe guide by using a swivel ring on a threaded rod. Once engaged, the bracket prevents lateral movement of the sprinkler line pipe relative to the ceiling track.