Winged Test Plug for Damage-Free Sprinkler Adapter Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing test plugs for sprinkler adapters are difficult to install and remove, and they can damage the adapters during hydraulic testing of fire suppression systems.
Innovation Solution
A test plug with a winged head and a post member that engages with the sprinkler adapter, allowing for easy installation and removal by hand without tools, and ensuring the integrity of the adapter is preserved.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional test plug is used for hydraulic testing, then the testing function is achieved, but the installation and removal become difficult and the sprinkler adapter may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The test plug is divided into distinct functional segments: a winged head portion for manual gripping and operation, and a post member with threaded engagement features for connection to the sprinkler adapter. This segmentation allows the operational interface (wings) to be optimized for ease of handling while the engagement interface (post member) is optimized for secure, damage-free connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The post member acts as an intermediary element between the manual operation (wings) and the sprinkler adapter. It provides a threaded engagement mechanism that distributes loading evenly across the adapter interface, preventing damage while allowing easy installation and removal through simple hand-operated wing rotation.
2Reliability
If a test plug with complex installation mechanism is used, then the installation security is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex installation mechanisms (such as special tools, multi-step procedures, or complex fastening systems) are extracted and replaced with a simple winged head design that can be operated by hand. The essential security function is maintained through the threaded post member engagement, while eliminating unnecessary complexity from the overall device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The winged head design enables the test plug to be installed and removed by manual operation without requiring external tools or complex mechanisms. The wings provide natural gripping surfaces that allow the user to directly manipulate the device for installation and removal, making the system self-servicing and eliminating the need for additional installation equipment.
3Reliability
If a test plug requiring tools for installation is used, then the engagement security is improved, but the productivity decreases due to additional tool requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The test plug is designed to be self-installing and self-removing through the hand-operable winged head. The wings provide sufficient mechanical advantage for direct manual manipulation, eliminating the need for external tools and enabling rapid installation and removal during hydraulic testing operations, thereby improving overall testing efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The test plug employs a simple, easily manufactured design with a post member that can be quickly engaged and disengaged. The structure prioritizes rapid deployment and removal over permanent or highly durable construction, allowing the test plug to be efficiently used, removed, and replaced if needed without requiring complex tooling or time-consuming installation procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A test plug for use with a sprinkler adapter or a fluid supply piping outlet is provided. The test plug includes a winged head to operate the test plug and a post member that protrudes from the winged head and engages with the sprinkler adapter or the fluid supply piping outlet.