Sprinkler Head Removal System and Method
Patent Number: US 9517373 Grant Date: 2016-12-13 Filing Date: 2012-07-06
Overview
This granted patent captures a practical, mechanically elegant solution for removing buried sprinkler sockets and heads in confined access conditions. Filed in July 2012 and granted in December 2016, the disclosure — by inventors based in Amarillo, TX and assigned to an Amarillo applicant — describes a hand-operated remover composed of a tip, shaft and sliding handle, and an innovative adjustable tip that expands to engage internal ridges of a sprinkler socket. The design addresses common field problems: variable socket diameters, tight excavation spaces, and the need for repeatable, non-damaging extraction. The specification and drawings show both interchangeable planar tips and spring‑loaded key‑plate assemblies that compress for insertion and expand to lock into notches, enabling controlled rotation and extraction from service pipes. The sliding-handle and shaft arrangement further allow operation around obstacles without sacrificing torque or control.
This patent exemplifies the firm’s careful claim drafting and technical depth, capturing multiple embodiments — removable tips, an adjustable spring/key-plate mechanism, and a handle/shaft interface — to secure broad enforceability for a practical landscaping and irrigation tool.
Key Features
- Adjustable, spring‑biased tip that expands to engage internal ridges
- Removable tip options to fit a range of socket sizes
- Sliding handle on the shaft for operation in confined spaces
- Simple, field‑serviceable mechanical construction
By protecting an accessible, service-oriented tool, the patent strengthens IP positions for manufacturers and service providers in irrigation, landscaping, and plumbing maintenance.
Invention Details
Abstract: A sprinkler head removal is disclosed. The sprinkler head remover comprises a tip portion having a width, a shaft having a first end and a second end; and, a handle having a first end and a second end. The tip portion releaseably connects to a sprinkler socket of a sprinkler head. The tip portion attaches to the first end of the shaft. The handle attaches to the second end of the shaft. The width of the tip portion varies according to an internal diameter of the sprinkler socket.
Background: BACKGROUND (1) This disclosure relates generally to a sprinkler head removal system and method. None of the disclosed inventions and patents, taken either singularly or in combination, is seen to describe the instant disclosure as claimed. Accordingly, an improved sprinkler head removal system and method would be advantageous. SUMMARY (2) A sprinkler head removal and a method of using a sprinkler head remover are disclosed. In one embodiment, said sprinkler head remover comprises a tip portion having a width, a shaft having a first end and a second end; and, a handle having a first end and a second end. Said tip portion releasably connects to a sprinkler socket of a sprinkler head. Said tip portion attaches to said first end of said shaft. Said handle attaches to said second end of said shaft. Said width of said tip portion varies according to an internal diameter of said sprinkler socket. (3) In another embodiment, said sprinkler head remover comprises a tip portion and a handle having a first end and a second end. Said tip portion is capable of releasably connecting to a sprinkler socket of a sprinkler head. Said tip portion connects to said handle. (4) A method of using a sprinkler head remover comprises: releasably connecting to a sprinkler socket of a sprinkler head with a tip portion of a sprinkler head remover, rotating said sprinkler socket from a fluid source pipe, dislodging said sprinkler socket from said fluid source pipe, and removing said sprinkler socket. Said sprinkler head remover comprises a handle. Said tip portion connects to said handle.
Patent Document
Related: Agriculture | Mechanical Engineering | Fluid Systems | Amarillo, Texas | Shannon Warren, Patent Attorney