Sprinkler test device and method
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current sprinkler test systems are inadequate as they do not effectively test the actual temperature activation of fuse-type sprinkler heads and the flow of extinguishing agents within the system, often requiring partial system disassembly and external laboratory testing, which is costly and not holistic in assessing the system's functionality.
Innovation Solution
A sprinkler test device with a chamber that fits around the sprinkler head, a drain conduit, and a temperature regulator to control temperature, allowing for in-situ testing of the activation temperature and flow performance, including the use of a temperature sensor, air heater, and camera to monitor and record the activation of the fuse and spray pattern, enabling a comprehensive field test without disassembly or external facilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If sprinkler heads are tested by dismounting and sending to external testing facilities, then measurement precision of activation temperature is improved, but device complexity and loss of time are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The test device integrates multiple testing functions into a single portable unit that can perform activation temperature testing, flow rate measurement, and system functionality assessment in-situ. The device combines a temperature-regulated chamber, flow measurement capabilities, and data collection systems into one comprehensive tool, eliminating the need for external laboratory facilities while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a portable test device as an intermediary between the sprinkler head and the testing process. This device includes a chamber that fits around the sprinkler head, temperature regulation mechanisms, and flow measurement systems, serving as a mediator that enables accurate testing without requiring disassembly or external facilities.
2Measurement precision
If sprinkler heads are tested by dismounting and sending to external facilities, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The test device is prepared and calibrated in advance, with all necessary components (chamber, temperature regulation, flow measurement) ready for immediate deployment. The device can be quickly positioned around the sprinkler head in-situ, eliminating the time required for disassembly, transportation, and setup at external facilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The portable test device serves as an intermediary that brings the testing capability directly to the sprinkler head location, eliminating the time loss associated with transporting sprinkler heads to external facilities and waiting for test results.
3Ease of operation
If in-situ testing is performed, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The test device integrates temperature regulation, flow measurement, and data collection functions into a single portable unit that can be easily deployed in-situ. The device maintains measurement precision through controlled chamber design and calibrated sensors while simplifying the testing operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The test device incorporates temperature regulation mechanisms that can precisely control and maintain the activation temperature parameters. The device includes sensors and control systems that adjust temperature, pressure, and flow rate parameters to match standard testing requirements, ensuring measurement precision while enabling easy in-situ operation.
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
This solution provides a reliable, cost-effective, and holistic testing method that measures the activation temperature and system performance, including pump activation and conduit openness, with minimal water usage and containment, allowing for identification of issues within the system and reducing testing costs.
Implementation Method 1
a temperature regulator, which may comprise an air heater... for regulating the temperature in the chamber
Implementation Method 2
The temperature regulator may comprise a temperature sensor, which is arranged preferably in the chamber
Implementation Method 3
The cap is hold in place by a fuse, which bursts, melts or ruptures at a specific predetermined temperature
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a sprinkler test device comprising: a chamber configured to fit around a sprinkler head mounted in a sprinkler system; a drain conduit for guiding extinguishing agent to a disposal or collection container; a temperature regulator for regulating the temperature in the chamber. The invention further relates to a method for testing a sprinkler system, comprising the following steps, to be executed in any suitable order; providing a sprinkler test device as described herein above; positioning the chamber of the sprinkler test device around a first sprinkler head of a sprinkler system to be tested; and regulating the temperature around the sprinkler head for testing purposes.