Sprinkler Trigger Lever with Integral Thermal Fuse
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sprinkler systems face challenges in efficiently addressing fire conditions due to complex trigger assemblies that require manual assembly and increased sprinkler frame size for proper operation.
Innovation Solution
The sprinkler system incorporates a trigger assembly with a monolithic lever and a fusible material that changes state in response to fire temperatures, allowing for automatic release of the seal and fluid discharge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a complex trigger assembly is used in existing sprinkler systems, then the sprinkler can maintain structural integrity and sealing, but the assembly process becomes manual and time-consuming, and the sprinkler frame size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the trigger assembly components (trigger lever, fusible material housing, and seal) into a more unified structure where the trigger lever is directly coupled with the seal and base. This merging reduces the number of separate parts and eliminates manual assembly steps while maintaining the structural integrity needed for reliable operation.
2Reliability
If a complex trigger assembly is used in existing sprinkler systems, then the sprinkler can maintain structural integrity and sealing, but the sprinkler frame size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests the fusible material housing within the trigger assembly structure, and positions the trigger lever to work within the existing frame arms. This nesting approach allows the trigger components to occupy minimal space within the overall sprinkler assembly, reducing the required frame size while maintaining structural integrity.
3Reliability
If existing trigger assemblies are used, then the sprinkler can maintain reliable operation, but automatic activation in response to fire conditions is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a fusible material that changes its physical state (melts) in response to temperature changes. When the ambient temperature reaches the fire condition threshold, the fusible material melts, causing the trigger lever to move and automatically release the seal, enabling automatic activation while maintaining operational reliability.
4Reliability
If existing trigger assemblies requiring manual assembly are used, then the sprinkler can maintain structural integrity, but the assembly time and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the trigger assembly components to be pre-configured and pre-positioned within the sprinkler body during manufacturing. The trigger lever is pre-coupled with the seal and base, and the fusible material is pre-installed in its housing, eliminating the need for manual assembly operations and significantly improving assembly productivity while maintaining structural integrity.
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 design simplifies the assembly process, reduces the size of the sprinkler frame, and enables automatic activation in response to fire conditions, enhancing the system's efficiency and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
The third member has a material disposed in the third member. The material is to change state responsive to a temperature indicative of a fire condition meeting or exceeding a threshold temperature.
Data Source
AI summary
A sprinkler includes a frame, a deflector, a seal, and a trigger. The frame includes a body forming an internal passageway between an inlet and an outlet along a longitudinal axis. The frame includes a pair of frame arms extending from the body to a base. The deflector is coupled with the base. The seal is disposed in the outlet. The trigger is coupled with the seal and the base. The trigger includes a first member coupled with the seal, a second member having an edge coupled with the first member, and a third member coupled with the first member and the second member, the edge offset from the longitudinal axis.