Protected fire sprinkler assembly

Abstract

The utility model relates to a protected fire sprinkler assembly. The protection and installation means have two discrete protection members coupled to each other around the sprinkler by a releasable locking means defined by a connection between the two discrete protection members. At least one of the members includes a torsional assist portion for applying torque to the fire sprinkler, and each of the members includes a deflector protection portion.

Description

[0001] Priority data and references are incorporated

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 389,550, filed July 15, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This utility model generally relates to protective devices and installation tools for fire sprinklers and systems. In particular, this utility model relates to protective covers and installation devices for fire sprinklers that allow for manual installation of fire sprinklers. Background Technology

[0004] Fire sprinklers consist of a sprinkler frame body and some type of fluid deflector. The sprinkler frame body has an inlet connected to a pressurized supply of extinguishing fluid, such as water. The fluid deflector is spaced from the outlet of the frame body to distribute the extinguishing fluid discharged from the outlet to the protected area in a defined spray distribution pattern. In some fire sprinklers, the release of fluid from the sprinkler body is controlled. For example, automatic fire sprinklers include a fusible or thermally responsive trigger assembly that secures a seal to an internal central orifice formed near the outlet of the frame body. When the temperature around the automatic sprinkler rises to a pre-selected value indicating a fire, the trigger assembly operates, breaks, or bursts to release the seal, and fluid begins to flow through the sprinkler body and exit the outlet to impinge on the fluid deflector. In other types of controlled sprinklers, the trigger and / or seal are operated or otherwise sprayed by mechanical, electrical, or computer-controlled actuators.

[0005] The response and actuation of a sprinkler are based on a thermal response trigger or actuator; and the spray pattern or distribution of the extinguishing fluid is defined by the configuration of the fluid deflector. Therefore, proper sprinkler performance depends on these operating components. To maintain the intended performance of the sprinkler, it is necessary to protect the automatic fire sprinkler from accidental impacts and / or damage. Known fire sprinkler covers are shown and described in U.S. Patent Nos. 6,669,111, 7,273,189, 7,540,330, 7,757,967, and 7,900,852. Typically, these known protective devices are axially positioned above the sprinkler to protect the fluid deflector and thermal response trigger. Alternatively, protective devices are strapped, pivoted, or connected around the sprinkler frame between the frame body and the fluid deflector to protect the thermal response trigger. These known protective sprayer covers are made of plastic and are attached around the sprayer to protect it during storage, transport, handling, and / or installation. Once the sprayer is properly installed in the branch connector, the protective cover can be removed to put the sprayer into use.

[0006] Fire sprinklers are used, for example, to protect stored goods and occupied space. Storage space fire protection systems include a piping network connected to a fire extinguishing fluid supply unit and installed above the stored goods, located below the ceiling of the occupied space. The piping network includes one or more branch lines connected to a cross-mains pipe, which is connected via vertical risers to the fluid supply unit to supply fire extinguishing fluid to the branch lines. Fire sprinklers are connected to the branch lines with appropriate orientation and appropriate sprinkler-to-sprinkler spacing.

[0007] To connect a fire sprinkler to a branch line, the branch line is constructed as a linear pipe manifold with a branch connector extending from the manifold to receive and thread the fire sprinkler. Known connectors have an inlet end configured for welding to the pipe manifold, and an outlet end with a tapered threaded end for connecting the sprinkler. To create a fluid-tight seal between the threaded connector and the sprinkler, sealing tape or putty is applied to the sprinkler. To create a fluid-tight seal between the mating tapered threads, the sprinkler must be properly tightened using a wrench.

[0008] There are also known branch connectors that eliminate one or both tapered threaded connectors in a tapered threaded connection, or eliminate the need for applying sealing tape or putty. For example, each of U.S. Patent Nos. 8,297,663, 8,662,191, and 10,744,527, and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2019 / 0175968 shows and describes a connector or adapter for connecting a fire sprinkler to a pipe manifold. Each of these known connectors uses an internal straight thread to connect the fire sprinkler to a tapered thread at the outlet, which allows the sprinkler to be positioned in the desired rotational orientation without thread engagement interference. To form a fluid-tight seal between the connector and the sprinkler, each connector employs an internal annular sealing member. The sprinkler is then threaded into the connector and fully twisted to form a fluid-tight connection.

[0009] To maintain protection of the sprayer during installation, it is preferable to retain the protective device on the sprayer. This can cause problems with properly twisting the sprayer to form a fluid-tight seal. Known protective devices present on the sprayer frame may interfere with or prevent proper wrench engagement. Furthermore, attempting to directly twist the sprayer using known protective devices is problematic because these known devices are not configured to adequately grip the sprayer frame and transmit sufficient torque to form a fluid-tight seal connection. Therefore, a sprayer protective device is needed that can protect the operating parts of the sprayer during storage, transport handling, and installation; transmit torque or rotational force to form a fluid-tight seal connection between the sprayer and the branch connector; and be easily removable for putting the sprayer into use. Utility Model Content

[0010] A preferred embodiment of a method for protecting and installing fire sprinklers, and more preferably automatic fire sprinklers, by providing a protected fire sprinkler assembly. The preferred embodiment of the protected fire sprinkler assembly includes a fire sprinkler and a protective device. The protective device preferably includes two separate protective members facing each other and connected to each other by a releasable locking device, defining an internal clearance for receiving and protecting at least a portion of the fire sprinkler. The protective members of the preferred protective device include a three-dimensional wall, and particularly an impermeable wall, facing the fire sprinkler and providing a torsion aid and a deflector protection portion.

[0011] A preferred embodiment of a protected fire sprinkler assembly includes a fire sprinkler comprising a body having an inlet, an outlet, an internal passage extending between the inlet and outlet along a central sprinkler axis, and an external thread formed around the central sprinkler axis. A pair of spaced-apart frame arms are disposed in a plane and extend axially from the body and converge toward each other to form an apex along the central sprinkler axis and axially spaced from the outlet. A thermally responsive trigger is disposed along the central sprinkler axis between the outlet and the apex. The thermally responsive trigger is a component that responds to and passively operates in response to a temperature rise. The thermally responsive trigger may be included in the assembly to provide a thermally responsive trigger assembly. A fluid deflector is attached to the apex. Preferably, the fluid deflector has an outer perimeter surrounding the apex. The fluid deflector can be configured for installation in various fire sprinkler protected locations, such as suspended, upright, and / or horizontal types, and can also be configured to control, suppress, and / or resolve fires by dispensing extinguishing fluids, such as water or concentrated aqueous solutions.

[0012] A preferred embodiment for the protected fire sprinkler assembly further includes a protective device arranged around the fire sprinkler. The preferred protective device includes a first protective member and a second protective member opposite each other with respect to the plane, at least partially surrounding a thermal response trigger. The first and second protective members define a torsion aid portion and a deflector protection portion. The torsion aid portion preferably includes a plurality of torsion aid surfaces adjacent to a pair of spaced-apart frame arms of the fire sprinkler.

[0013] The first and second protective members also include releasable locking devices, each comprising a first releasable locking device and a second releasable locking device; each releasable locking device extends through the plane in which the pair of frame arms are disposed and is close to the apex of the fire sprinkler. The first releasable locking device is configured as a first lateral portion near the apex, and the second releasable locking device is configured as a second lateral portion near the apex. A preferred protective device includes a release section aligned with the first and second releasable locking devices.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment, the protected fire sprinkler assembly includes a fire sprinkler and a protective device surrounding the fire sprinkler. The protective device includes a first protective member and a second protective member, which are positioned opposite each other about a plane to at least partially surround a thermally responsive trigger. Preferably, each of the first and second protective members includes an impermeable wall. The impermeable wall provides shelter for the fire sprinkler. Each shelter is secured together in an opposing manner by a releasable locking device, which provides a unique interconnection between the shelters.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment, each impermeable wall or shield preferably includes a first end and a second end, the first end being located between the body, and particularly the outlet of the body, and the apex supporting the fluid deflector of the fire sprinkler, and the second end surrounding the outer perimeter of the fluid deflector of the fire sprinkler. Preferably, the impermeable wall also includes at least one pair of lateral torsion aid surfaces near the first end, wherein each of the pair of lateral torsion aid surfaces abuts a pair of spaced-apart frame arms of the fire sprinkler. The impermeable wall also includes a pair of locking elements disposed about the apex, and a release section near the second end and aligned with the pair of locking elements.

[0016] Preferably, the first end of the impermeable wall includes a shielding section. The shielding section includes a concave section and two convex sections laterally disposed about the concave section. The concave section faces and preferably abuts the two convex sections, and a curved transition exists between the concave section and each of the convex sections. The pair of lateral torsion aid surfaces includes a first lateral torsion aid surface abutting a first convex section of the two convex sections and a second lateral torsion aid surface abutting a second convex section of the two convex sections. The first lateral torsion aid surface includes a first planar member extending parallel to the plane, and the second lateral torsion aid surface includes a second planar member extending parallel to the plane.

[0017] Preferably, alternatively, and / or additionally, the first end includes a torsion aid portion, and the central section of the impermeable wall includes a plurality of central sections that narrow between the first end and the second end. Preferably, each of the plurality of central sections includes a curved portion disposed along the axis of the central sprinkler and a planar portion transverse to the axis of the central sprinkler of the fire sprinkler.

[0018] Preferably, alternatively, and / or additionally, the first end of the impermeable wall includes a trigger shielding section for protecting the thermal response trigger assembly. The trigger shielding section has a first maximum radius from the central sprinkler axis of the fire sprinkler. The second end surrounding the perimeter of the deflector includes a peripheral shielding surface for protecting the fluid deflector. The peripheral shielding surface has a second maximum radius from the central sprinkler axis, and the second maximum radius is greater than the first maximum radius.

[0019] Preferably, alternatively, and / or additionally, the second end surrounding the perimeter of the deflector includes a first radially extending shielding surface and a peripheral shielding surface that at least partially surrounds the outer perimeter of the fluid deflector. The second end preferably includes a second radially extending shielding surface, and wherein the peripheral shielding surface extends between the first radially extending shielding surface and the second radially extending shielding surface.

[0020] Preferably and / or additionally, the pair of locking elements includes an insert and a receiver, and the release section includes a planar member that extends parallel to the plane from either a first longitudinal side of the impermeable wall or a second longitudinal side of the impermeable wall.

[0021] A preferred embodiment of the protected fire sprinkler assembly provides a preferred installation method, and more preferably, a method for putting the fire sprinkler into service. The torsion aid and deflector protection portions of the preferred embodiment of the protected fire sprinkler assembly allow the protected fire sprinkler assembly to be manually twisted into the branch connector, while providing protection against damage to the fire sprinkler and / or protection against injury or damage to the hands of the user manually twisting the protected fire sprinkler assembly. The protected fire sprinkler assembly is preferably manually twisted into the branch connector to compress the gasket in the branch connector and form a sealing connection between the protected fire sprinkler assembly and the branch connector. Once the sealing connection is formed, the protective device of the protected fire sprinkler assembly is removed from the fire sprinkler. In particular, the protective device can be removed from the fire sprinkler by separating one of a pair of releasable locking devices that hold the opposing shielding portions of the preferred embodiment of the protected fire sprinkler assembly together. Preferably, at least one of the pair of releasable locking devices located between opposing shielding portions is separated by pulling the release section aligned with the pair of releasable locking devices, so as to place the fire sprinkler in a mode ready to serve the area to be protected. Attached Figure Description

[0022] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form part of this specification, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present invention and, together with the general description given above and the detailed description given below, serve to explain the features of the present invention. It should be understood that the preferred embodiments are examples of the present invention provided by the appended claims.

[0023] Figure 1A This is a partial cross-sectional exploded view of a preferred embodiment of the protected fire sprinkler assembly and associated branch connectors.

[0024] Figure 1B It is connected to Figure 1A A partial cross-sectional transparent internal view of the protected fire sprinkler assembly of the branch connector.

[0025] Figure 2A yes Figure 1A An exploded view of a preferred embodiment of the protected fire sprinkler assembly.

[0026] Figure 2B yes Figure 1A The protected fire sprinkler assembly along Figure 1B The plan view of the cross section IIB is shown.

[0027] Figure 2C yes Figure 2B Detailed view within a portion of IIC.

[0028] Figure 3A and Figure 3B Is Figure 1A A perspective view of the protective devices used in the protected fire sprinkler assembly.

[0029] Figure 3C yes Figure 3A An exploded perspective view of the protective device.

[0030] Figure 4A yes Figure 1A An exploded view of an alternative preferred embodiment of the protected fire sprinkler assembly.

[0031] Figure 4B yes Figure 4A A cross-sectional plan view of the protected fire sprinkler assembly.

[0032] Figure 5 It was installed by hand. Figure 1A An illustration of a preferred protected sprayer assembly. Detailed Implementation

[0033] Figure 1A An exploded partial cross-sectional view of a preferred protected fire sprinkler assembly 10 is shown, which has a fire sprinkler 20 for installation in a branch connector 200 of a fluid supply manifold 300 and a protective device 100. The preferred embodiment of the protective device 100 protects the sprinkler 20 from unintentional impacts and damage during storage, transportation, installation, and / or while awaiting commissioning. Furthermore, the protective device 100 also serves as a tool for installing the sprinkler 20 into the branch connector 200 of the fire sprinkler system. More specifically, as shown... Figure 5 As illustrated, the preferred device 100 facilitates the installation of the sprinkler 20 by manually twisting the protected fire sprinkler assembly 10 into the branch connector 200. Additionally, the preferred protective device 100 is configured to allow the sprinkler 20 to be put into use, preferably by being manually removed or released from it.

[0034] Reference Figures 1A to 1B , Figures 2A to 2B as well as Figures 4A to 4BIn a preferred embodiment of the protected fire sprinkler assembly and its installation, the sprinkler 20 generally includes a frame 30 having a body 32 and a pair of spaced-apart frame arms 34a, 34b extending from the body 32 and preferably arranged diametrically opposite to the body 32. The frame arms 34a, 34b are preferably aligned with each other in plane P. The frame arms 34a, 34b are coupled to a fluid deflector 40, which is axially spaced from the body 32. The fluid deflector 40 and the sprinkler 20 can be configured for installation as a suspended sprinkler, an upright sprinkler, or a horizontal sprinkler as shown. The sprinkler body 32 has a fluid inlet 31 and a fluid outlet 33, thereby defining an internal passage 35 extending along the central sprinkler axis XX between the inlet 31 and the outlet 33. The sprayer body 32 is configured to be mounted in the branch connector 200; and in a preferred embodiment of the sprayer 20, the body 32 includes an external thread formed around the central sprayer axis XX, the external thread being preferably threaded to the branch connector 200.

[0035] The sprayer 20 is preferably an automatic sprayer with a thermal response trigger, and more preferably an automatic sprayer with a thermal response trigger assembly 50, which is coaxially disposed between the body 32 and the fluid deflector 40. Figures 2A to 2B As shown, a preferred embodiment of the trigger assembly 50 can be implemented as a welded connecting rod having a support and a rod assembly. Alternatively, the trigger assembly can be a fragile glass sphere with a support structure to provide, as... Figures 4A to 4BAn alternative embodiment of the thermal response trigger assembly 50' shown is described. Therefore, a welded connecting rod or a fragile glass sphere provides a thermal response trigger for the automatic fire sprinkler 20, which operates passively in response to temperature. The automatic fire sprinkler includes an internal sealing assembly 39, which is supported in place by the thermal response trigger assemblies 50, 50' to maintain a tight fluid seal. In a preferred embodiment of the sprinkler 20, a fluid deflector 40 is attached to and preferably surrounds a vertex 34c coaxially aligned with the central axis XX. Alternatively or additionally, the trigger assemblies 50, 50' and / or the sealing assembly 39 may be combined with an actuator for controlled discharge. In a preferred frame 30, frame arms 34a, 34b preferably converge to form a preferred vertex 34c. The thermal response trigger assemblies 50, 50' are preferably axially supported by a threaded load screw or member 60 screwed into the vertex 34c. Therefore, vertex 34c is preferably positioned between the thermal response trigger assemblies 50, 50' and the fluid deflector 40. When the sprinkler 20 is installed and put into use, the trigger assemblies 50, 50' are configured to be thermally actuated in response to fire or a sufficient level of heat. Upon thermal actuation, the sealing assembly 39 is preferably released and sprayed from the outlet 33 under the fluid pressure delivered from the manifold 300 and through the branch connector 200 to the inlet 31. The extinguishing fluid is discharged from the open outlet 33 and thus distributed by the fluid deflector 40 to resolve the fire incident.

[0036] Typically, the preferred protective device 100 is a protective tool configured to mount and connect the sprayer 20 to the branch connector 200. A preferred embodiment of the protective device 100 also includes a torsion assist portion 120 or a feature thereof, which facilitates the transmission of torque, and more preferably hand torque, to the sprayer 20 by minimizing or eliminating rotational slippage or relative rotation between the sprayer 20 and the device 100. As described herein, the torsion assist portion 120 preferably includes an outer surface of the device 100 that can be used by a user to apply gripping and rotational forces to the sprayer 20. The device 100 can remain in place to protect the mounted sprayer 20 until the sprayer and sprayer system are ready for use. To put the sprayer 20 into use, the protective device 100 must be removed to expose the operating parts of the sprayer 20. A preferred embodiment of the device 100 includes a release section 150 for removing the protective device 100 from the sprayer 20.

[0037] In a preferred sprinkler assembly 10, a protective and mounting device 100 is arranged around the fire sprinkler frame 30 to at least partially surround and protect the thermal response trigger assemblies 50, 50', and even more preferably, to partially surround and protect the fluid deflector 40. Therefore, the protective device 100 includes a first portion 100a located at a first end along the central sprinkler axis XX and a second portion 100b located at a second end along the central sprinkler axis XX, the first portion 100a providing a torsion assist portion and the second portion 100b providing a deflector protection portion. The device 100 is preferably arranged around the sprinkler 20 to position and accommodate the operating components of the sprinkler 20 within a protective space or gap within the device 100. (Refer to...) Figure 2A and Figure 4A The protective device 100 preferably includes a first discrete member 110a and a second discrete member 110b, wherein the first discrete member 110a and the second discrete member 110b are shown as being opposite each other about a plane P in a preferred releasable locking device, wherein the pair of frame arms 34a, 34b are preferably disposed in the plane P. Each of the preferably opposite members 110a, 110b is a wall structure, and preferably a three-dimensional wall, and more preferably an impermeable wall, which provides a first shielding portion and an opposite second shielding portion that are releasably locked to each other. As used herein, a "three-dimensional wall" means a wall structure having an outer perimeter between the inner surface facing the sprayer 20 and the outer surface exposed for the user to grip, and the wall structure may have channels, such as through holes, openings and / or openings, as long as such channels do not affect the function of the torsion aid portion and the deflector protection portion; conversely, an "impermeable wall" means a wall structure without channels such as through holes, openings and / or openings.

[0038] Preferably, each of the opposing components 110a and 110b has a first lateral end 112a and a second lateral end 112b, which are laterally disposed with respect to the internal space of the device 100 or the sprinkler 20 housed therein. The opposing components 110a and 110b are preferably connected to each other around the fire sprinkler 20. The components 110a and 110b are preferably identical, formed of a polymer or plastic material such as polyethylene, and formed by molding, for example, injection molding. Alternatively or additionally, the protective components 110a and 110b may be formed such that the assembled device 100 is symmetrical or asymmetrical about plane P. Furthermore, the protective components 110a and 110b may be formed such that the assembled device 100 is symmetrical or asymmetrical about another plane perpendicular to plane P and intersecting the central device axis YY, such as... Figures 3A to 3B As shown in the image.

[0039] To secure the device 100 around the sprayer 20, the device 100 preferably includes a plurality of releasable locking devices 124 for securing the discrete members 110a, 110b of the device 100 around the sprayer 20. A preferred embodiment of the releasable locking device 124 is independent, because, considering the individual nature of the discrete protective members 110a, 110b, it is the only device or component of the device capable of securing the device 100 around the sprayer 20. The releasable locking device 124 is preferably defined by a connection between two discrete protective members 110a, 110b. The releasable locking device 124 defines a spacer for the two discrete protective members 110a, 110b, and the inner surface of each protective member 110a, 110b includes one, and preferably more than one, component or element of the releasable locking device 124. Furthermore, one or both releasable locking devices 124 can form a preferred independent releasable locking device as a latching connection. In a preferred embodiment of the device 100 and the releasable locking device 124, refer to Figure 3CAn exploded view of the protective device 100 shows that the first protective member 110a includes a locking element 124a and another locking element 124b, and in a preferred embodiment, the second protective member 110b, identical to the first protective member 110a, also includes locking elements 124a and 124b. In a preferred embodiment, the identical and opposing first and second protective members 110a are connected to define an internal gap for accommodating the sprayer 20 or a portion thereof by the engagement of the locking element 124a of the first protective member 110a with the locking element 124b of the second protective member 110b, and the engagement of the locking element 124b of the first protective member 110a with the locking element 124a of the second protective member 110b. The releasable locking device 124 preferably includes a cylindrical insert of locking element 124a as a protective member 110a, 110b, which engages with a complementary cylindrical receiver of locking element 124b as another protective member 110a, 110b by a preferred frictional or interference fit, such as a snap-fit ​​connection, to connect the discrete members 110a, 110b to each other in a preferred latching connection and assembled configuration of the device 100. In the assembly of the device 100, the discrete protective members are pulled together opposite each other and independently to engage the locking elements 124a, 124b. In a preferred embodiment, the releasable locking device 124 provides a pair of spacers laterally disposed about the device axis; or in assembly 10, the releasable locking device 124 is radially disposed about each side of the vertex 34c between members 110a, 110b, wherein each protective member 110a, 110b has an insert as a locking element 124a and a receiver as a locking element 124b. Additionally, one or both of the preferred members 110a, 110b may include other internal configurations extending toward and preferably perpendicular to plane P to surround and / or contact trigger assemblies 50, 50'. These configurations preferably stabilize the protective device 100 about the frame 30, and more preferably center the triggers 50, 50' within the device 100. The releasable locking device 124 is preferably positioned radially inward relative to the lateral ends 112a, 112b, and particularly located radially inward of the preferred release section 150.

[0040] In the assembly configuration of device 100, a releaseable locking device 124 extends perpendicularly to plane P between components 110a and 110b, such that components 110a and 110b are spaced apart from each other. In a preferred protected sprayer assembly 10, the first component 110a and the second component 110b are spaced apart from each other about plane P, and more specifically, the opposing lateral ends 112a and 112b are spaced apart about plane P for holding the frame arms 34a and 34b therein, as... Figure 2B and Figure 4BAs seen in [the image]. More specifically, in the preferred assembly 10, the first lateral end 112a of the first member 110a and the second lateral end 112b of the second member 110b are positioned relative to each other about plane P, such that a frame arm 34a is disposed between the first lateral end 112a of the first member 110a and the second lateral end 112b of the second member 110b, and the second lateral end 112b of the first member 110a and the first lateral end 112a of the second member 110b are positioned relative to each other about plane P, such that another frame arm 34b is disposed between the second lateral end 112b of the first member 110a and the first lateral end 112a of the second member 110b. In a preferred embodiment of the protective device 100, the device can be gripped by a user's hand, and the two members 110a, 110b can be pulled toward each other to grip the sprayer 20. Figure 5 The illustration shows the protected sprayer assembly 10 being installed into the branch connector by hand. The preferred protective device 100 protects the operating components of the sprayer 20, including the trigger and fluid deflector, at their periphery. Therefore, the device 100 protects the user's hands from surface edges, and particularly from the edges of the fluid deflector 40 of the sprayer 20.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment of the protective device 100, each of the lateral ends 112a of the corresponding first member 110a and the lateral ends 112b of the second member 110b grips the corresponding frame arms 34a, 34b, and also abuts, i.e., contacts, at least a portion of the corresponding frame arms 34a, 34b when the releasable locking device 124 secures the first member 110a and the second member 110b around the sprayer 20. Alternatively, when the releasable locking device 124 secures the first member 110a and the second member 110b around the sprayer 20, one or all of the lateral ends 112a of the corresponding first member 110a and the lateral ends 112b of the second member 110b are spaced apart from the corresponding frame arms 34a, 34b, and grip the corresponding frame arms 34a, 34b to abut them when the protective device 100 is gripped by the user's hand. Figure 5 As shown in the image.

[0042] Once installed, the protective device 100 can remain in place to protect the sprinkler until the system is ready for use. Once the sprinkler 20 and system are ready for use, the device 100 must be removed to expose the operating parts of the sprinkler 20 to provide the required fire sprinkler protection. To facilitate removal of the device 100 from the sprinkler 20 and for commissioning the sprinkler, a preferred embodiment of the device 100 includes a release section 150 for removing the device 100 from around the sprinkler 20. The release section 150 is preferably configured to separate the protective members 110a, 110b from each other. In a preferred embodiment, the release section 150 is integrally formed as a section of one or both of the separate protective members 110a, 110b to define a lever by which force can be applied to separate the protective members 110a, 110b from each other and release the device 100 from its position around the sprinkler 20. The release section 150 is preferably formed as a laterally extending tab positioned laterally along the central axes X, YY. The release section 150 is preferably positioned along the lateral end 112a of one, and preferably both, of the protective members 110a and 110b. A preferred release section 150 is shown as a tab, a substantially planar member extending parallel to plane P, which can be grasped and pulled to release one or both of the releasable locking devices 124 and separate the protective members 110a and 110b from each other. The preferred planar member of the release section 150 has multiple linear sides and defines an inner surface 150a relative to the internal clearance of the device 100 and an outer surface 150b opposite to the inner surface 150a. The release section 150 may alternatively be shaped and / or positioned along one or more protective members 110a and 110b, provided that the release section can be used to apply force to disassemble the device 100. For example, the preferably planar tab member of the release section 150 may be angled or tilted relative to plane P. In addition, the tab member of the release section 150 can be alternatively shaped or surface-treated to form a non-planar member, such as a curved tab member, which can preferably be grasped by hand to release the device 100 from around the sprayer 20.

[0043] In the protected component 10, the preferred release tabs provided by the release section 150 are preferably arranged laterally to expose each surface 150a, 150b for use by a user to grasp, manipulate, push, and / or pull to apply a separation force. The tabs of the release tab 150 may be configured relative to other components of the device 100 to facilitate the release of the device 100 from the sprayer 20. In a preferred embodiment of the component 10 and the device 100, each of the releasable locking device 124 and the release section 150 is arranged laterally about the vertex 34c. Furthermore, the releasable locking device 124 and the release section 150 are preferably aligned with each other in the lateral direction about the vertex 34c. In the preferred embodiment shown, the releasable locking device 124 and the release section 150 are axially aligned, closer to or closer to the vertex 34c than to the outlet 33. Additionally, the external torsion assist portion 120 of the device 100 is axially located between the sprayer outlet 33 and the apex 34c, preferably closer axially to the outlet 33 than to the apex 34c. Therefore, the release section 150 and the releasable locking device 124 are axially spaced from the preferred torsion assist portion 120. In a preferred embodiment, the release section 150 is axially located between the fluid deflector 40 and the torsion assist portion 120, and more preferably axially aligned with the torsion assist portion 120 along the first lateral end 112a of the same protective members 110a, 110b.

[0044] Each of the first member 110a and the second member 110b defines a geometric profile that facilitates sprayer protection and handling of component 10. In the preferred embodiment described herein, the protective device 100 defines a first portion 100a for protecting thermal response triggers 50, 50', and preferably defines a second portion 100b for protecting the fluid deflector 40. In a preferred embodiment of the device 100, at least one and preferably both of the first member 110a and the second member 110b define a torsion aid portion having a shielding section and a convex section relative to the internal clearance of the device, with a transition between the shielding section and the convex section defining a preferred external torsion aid surface of the device. The first member and the second member define a first width or a space between the first member and the second member to form the first portion 100a of the device for protecting the thermal response triggers 50, 50'. The first member 110a and the second member 110b also preferably define a second width greater than the first width between them to form the second portion 100b of the device 100 for protecting the fluid deflector 40. At least one of the protective members 110a and 110b, and preferably both, includes a concave segment 114a and a convex segment 114b, each concave segment 114a and convex segment 114b defining a portion thereof relative to the central sprayer axis XX to provide an internal volume for accommodating thermal response trigger assemblies 50 and 50' to define a shielding section or a portion thereof of the device 100. The concave segment 114a is formed to partially surround and shield the thermal response trigger assemblies 50 and 50'. In a preferred embodiment, the concave segment 114a defines a variable radius around the central axis XX.

[0045] The shielding portions of components 110a and 110b may be defined by alternating geometries around axis XX, provided that such geometries at least partially surround and shield the trigger assemblies 50 and 50'. In a preferred embodiment of the illustrated protective components 110a and 110b, each protective component includes a concave segment 114a and two convex segments 114b laterally disposed about the concave segment 114a. Preferably, the central concave segment 114a and the lateral convex segments 114a, 114b are adjacent to each other to define a preferred curved transition 115 of the protective components 110a and 110b. For the preferred protective device 100, the transition 115 provides an outer surface of a torsion aid portion 120 of the device at each lateral end 112a, 112b of the protective components 110a and 110b, which can be used to apply torque to the protected assembly 10 to facilitate the installation of the sprayer 20 into the branch connector 200 or other fittings. The convex section 114b defines a preferred external finger rest or thumb drive portion, such as Figure 5As illustrated, hand torque can be applied against an external finger rest or thumb drive. Additionally or alternatively, the outer surface of the convex section 114b may include other surface features to accommodate and define the preferred finger or thumb rest. In a preferred sprinkler assembly 10, the convex section 114b is preferably laterally located between the thermal response trigger assemblies 50, 50' and a frame arm to define a preferred external torsion aid surface. Therefore, the protective device 100 provides a preferred method for protecting and installing the fire-fighting assembly 10, comprising: shielding the thermal response trigger with the concave section 114a of the protective members 110a, 110b relative to the central sprinkler axis XX; and torsion the sprinkler assembly 10 into the branch connector 200 with the convex section 114b of the protective members 110a, 110b relative to the central sprinkler axis XX and located between a frame arm 34 and the trigger assemblies 50, 50'.

[0046] To transmit the torque applied to the device 100 to the sprayer 20, one and preferably both of the protective members 110a and 110b include another segment 114c at one or both of the lateral ends 112a and 112b, the segment 114c facing one of the frame arms 34a and 34b. In a preferred embodiment of the device 100, one and preferably both of the protective members 110a and 110b include a segment 114c facing one of the frame arms 34a and 34b at each lateral end 112a and 112b. More preferably, the segment 114c preferably extends parallel to plane P to provide a planar segment of the torsion assist portion 120, and is preferably configured to be continuous with the concave segment 114a and the convex segment 114b, such that the convex segment 114b is located between the concave segment 114a and the segment 114c. Therefore, section 114c, together with convex section 114b and preferred curved transition 115, defines a preferred external torsion-aiding surface of torsion-aiding portion 120. (Refer to...) Figure 2B and Figure 2C A preferred section 114c of the torsion assist portion 120 is positioned facing and preferably in contact with the frame arm 34a, and a preferred planar release section 150 extends radially outward of the facing frame arm 34a. In an alternative embodiment where the planar release section 150 is inclined relative to plane P, the release section 150 is inclined relative to the planar portion 114c of the torsion assist portion 120.

[0047] The protective device 100 is axially positioned to extend from the frame body 32 to the fluid deflector 40. Additionally, the protective device 100 is disposed around the frame 30 to expose the wrench boss of the sprayer frame, so that the protective device 100 can be used in conjunction with a wrench to install the sprayer when needed. The protective device extends axially to the fluid deflector 40, and more preferably surrounds the fluid deflector 40 at least peripherally, and even more preferably accommodates the fluid deflector 40. In a preferred embodiment of the device 100, each of the first member 110a and the second member 110b defines a first maximum radius from the center sprayer axis for the first protective portion 100a for protecting the thermal response triggers 50, 50' assemblies, and a second maximum radius from the center sprayer axis for the second protective portion 100b for protecting the fluid deflector 40, wherein the second maximum radius is preferably greater than the first radius. Figure 3A and Figure 3B As seen, the concave section 114a defines a preferred first maximum radius, and the first protective portion 100a of the device 100 preferably narrows axially as it approaches the second protective portion 100b. As shown, the first portion 100a may narrow uniformly or, more preferably, in a stepped manner. This stepped manner can be provided by a plurality of central sections, wherein one or more of the central sections preferably have a curved portion disposed along the central sprinkler axis and a planar portion transverse to the central sprinkler axis of the fire sprinkler. Preferably, the central portion is surrounded by a portion of the wall structure that is preferably planar with the plane and aligned with a planar section defining the torsion assist portion 120 and / or the release section 150. The plurality of central sections narrowing axially from the first protective portion 100a toward the second protective portion 100b facilitates the user's gripping of the protected fire sprinkler assembly 10. Additionally, the central section near the second part 100b allows the releasable locking device 124 to be positioned around the apex 34b.

[0048] Reference Figures 2A to 2B , Figures 3A to 3C as well as Figures 4A to 4BThe second protective portion 100b of the device, which provides protection for the deflector, preferably includes a radially extending shielding surface 116a and a peripheral shielding surface 116b that at least partially surrounds the fluid deflector 40. The radially extending shielding surface 116a is arranged normal to or perpendicular to the central longitudinal sprayer axis XX or the device axis YY to protect the surface of the fluid deflector 40 opposite to the outlet 33. The peripheral shielding surface 116b of the second portion 100b defines a radial distance Rp, and a preferred release section 150 preferably forms or has a portion located at a radial distance preferably greater than the radial distance Rp. Additionally, the radial distance of the radially extending shielding surface positions the peripheral shielding surface at the maximum radius of the radial distance Rp, which is greater than the maximum radius Rt of the trigger shielding section provided by the convex section 114b of the first protective portion 100a from the central sprayer axis XX. Figure 3B In the preferred embodiment shown, the second protective portion 100b may include a second radially extending shielding surface 116c, which is parallel to the first radially extending surface and normal to the central axis XX, to form a preferred lower surface or lip for shielding the fluid deflector 40, wherein the peripheral shielding surface 116b extends between the radially extending shielding surfaces 116a and 116c.

[0049] Figure 5 The illustration shows the manual installation of a protected fire sprinkler assembly 10 into a branch connector. A preferred protective device 100 protects the operating components of the sprinkler 20, including the trigger and fluid deflector, at its periphery. The outer surface of a twisting aid 120 provides a finger rest, and more preferably a thumb rest, against which the installer can apply force to twist the sprinkler 20 into the branch connector 200. With the thumb applied against one device member 110a, the remaining fingers can curl around the other device member 110b. Once installed, the device 100 can be removed or released from the sprinkler 20 by pulling a preferred release section 150, thereby exposing the operating components of the sprinkler 20 for service.

[0050] Refer again Figure 1A and Figure 1BA preferred embodiment of the protected sprayer assembly is configured for manual installation into the branch connector 200 with a fluid-tight seal. The branch connector 200, as shown, is generally a tubular member having a first inlet end 212 for connection to a manifold 300 and a second outlet end 214 for preferably threaded connection to a fluid distribution device 20. Depending on the configuration of the fluid deflector 40 of the sprayer 20, the branch connector 200 can be arranged on the manifold 300 for suitable installation as a suspended, upright, or horizontal sprayer. The branch connector 200 can be configured as a straight fitting, or alternatively, it can be formed as different types of fittings, such as elbow fittings or tee fittings, to connect to a suitably configured sprayer. A preferred embodiment of the branch connector 200 includes an internal annular sealing member for forming a fluid-tight seal with the protected sprayer assembly 20. The branch connector 200 includes a preferably internally formed gasket chamber 230 in which the annular sealing member 240 is disposed. The annular sealing member 240 is preferably configured as a seal as shown in U.S. Patent No. 10,744,527, which is integrally incorporated herein, to provide a preferred leak-proof connection between the fire sprinkler or other fire-fighting device and the branch connector 200. The material used for the sealing member 240 is preferably ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber with a hardness of 65 to 80, and more preferably 70, to provide the required sealing function and hold the sprinkler in position. Extinguishing fluid supplied to the inlet end 212 flows through the annular sealing member and exits from the outlet end 214 to supply the sprinkler 20 for discharge and distribution according to the performance specifications of the sprinkler 20.

[0051] Connector 200 includes an internally threaded portion near the outlet end 214 for engaging the protected fire sprinkler assembly 10 via hand torque, preferably using a preferred embodiment of the protective device 100 described herein. The outlet end 214 and the internally threaded portion 220 are preferably configured for connection to a fire sprinkler 20 of nominal size. Therefore, a preferred embodiment of the branch connector 200 defines a nominal size or diameter ranging from 1 / 2 inch to 1-1 / 2 inch at the outlet end 214, and more specifically any of the following nominal sizes or diameters: 1 / 2 inch, 3 / 4 inch, 1 inch, 1-1 / 4 inch, or 1-1 / 2 inch. The outlet end 214 is preferably defined by a circular flat surface orthogonally surrounding and disposed relative to a central longitudinal axis XX.

[0052] Generally, the external thread of the body 32 of the fire sprinkler 20 of the protected fire sprinkler assembly 10 has a tapered form, such as an NPT thread. The internal thread portion 220 preferably includes an internal straight thread for receiving the tapered thread of the fire sprinkler 20. The threaded engagement maintains a fluid seal through a proper sealing engagement between the compression and sealing member 240, the branch connector 200, and the sprinkler 20. The inner diameter ID of the internal straight thread can be defined by any of the pitch diameter, small diameter, or large diameter of the internal thread portion 220, as long as the straight thread engages the tapered thread of the sprinkler 20. The internal straight thread can be, for example, a 1-11.5 NPSH thread, a 3 / 4-14 NPSH thread, or a 1 / 2-14 NPSH thread for mating with corresponding nominal 1-inch, 3 / 4-inch, or 1 / 2-inch fire sprinklers.

[0053] The preferred use of a straight internal thread allows the protected fire sprinkler assembly 10, in a preferred embodiment, to be rotated by hand at any desired position within the branch connector 200 about axis XX while simultaneously forming a proper fluid-tight seal. More preferably, using a preferred embodiment of the protective device 100, the internal thread portion 220 and the sealing member 240 form a proper fluid-tight seal engagement with the fire sprinkler 20 under sufficient hand torque. The threaded installation of the sprinkler 20 deforms the annular sealing member 240 and provides a leak-proof fluid-tight seal between the sprinkler 20 and the branch connector 200. The connection between the branch connector 200 and the sprinkler 20 is sufficient to provide a fluid-tight seal at fluid pressures up to 200 psi or higher, for example up to 175 psi and including at least 175 psi.

[0054] The discharge or flow characteristics of the fire sprinkler 20, and particularly the discharge or flow characteristics of the sprinkler body 32, are defined by the internal geometry of the sprinkler, including its internal passages, inlets, and outlets (orifices). Typically, the size of the sprinkler discharge orifice is defined by the sprinkler's nominal K-factor. For a given sprinkler assembly, generally, a larger K-factor results in a larger discharge orifice, and a smaller K-factor results in a smaller discharge orifice. The nominal K-factor for sprinklers listed in NFPA 13: Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems can be found in units of 1 [GPM / (psi.)]. ½ Up to 30 [GPM / (psi.)] ½ ] and a larger range. NFPA 13 defines the following nominal K coefficients as 14 or greater: 14 [GPM / (psi.)] ½]("K14");16.8[GPM / (psi.) ½ ]("K16.8");19.6[GPM / (psi.) ½ ]("K19.6");22.4[GPM / (psi.) ½ ]("K22.4");25.2[GPM / (psi.) ½ ] (“K25.2”) and 28.0 [GPM / (psi.) ½ (“K28”). Even larger nominal K-factors are possible. As is known in the art, the K-factor for sprayers is defined as K = Q / P. 1 / 2 Here, Q represents the flow rate of water from the outlet through the internal passage of the sprinkler body (in gallons per minute, or GPM), and P represents the pressure (in pounds per square inch, or psi.) of the water or extinguishing fluid supplied to the inlet end of the internal passage through the sprinkler body. Therefore, the design performance of the sprinkler depends on the minimum fluid pressure or flow rate supplied.

[0055] The length L of the branch connector 200 is preferably defined between the midpoint of the concave portion of the outlet end 214 and the saddle-shaped inlet end 212. The total length L of the branch connector between the inlet end 212 and the outlet end 214 is preferably in the range of 1 inch to 1-1 / 2 inch to ensure that the fire sprinkler 20, and particularly the sprinkler body 32, achieves the defined discharge or flow characteristics when installed in the branch connector 200. Furthermore, the total length L of the branch connector 200 preferably corresponds to or varies with the nominal outlet diameter. For example, for a nominal outlet diameter of 1 inch, the length L is preferably 1-1 / 4 inch; for a nominal outlet diameter of 3 / 4 inch, the length L is preferably 1-1 / 8 inch; and for a nominal outlet diameter of 1 / 2 inch, the length L is preferably 1-1 / 16 inch.

[0056] Although the present invention has been disclosed with reference to certain embodiments, various modifications, variations, and alterations can be made to the described embodiments without departing from the scope and definition of the present invention as set forth in the appended claims. Therefore, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the described embodiments, but rather has the full scope defined by the language of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A protected fire sprinkler assembly characterized by, include: A fire sprinkler includes: a body having an inlet, an outlet, an internal passage extending along a central sprinkler axis between the inlet and the outlet, and an external thread formed around the central sprinkler axis; a pair of spaced-apart frame arms disposed in a plane and extending axially from the body and converging toward each other to form a vertex spaced axially from the outlet along the central sprinkler axis; a thermally responsive trigger disposed along the central sprinkler axis between the outlet and the vertex; and a fluid deflector attached to the vertex, the fluid deflector having an outer perimeter surrounding the vertex; and A protective device, arranged around the fire sprinkler, includes a first protective member and a second protective member that are opposite each other about the plane to at least partially surround the thermal response trigger. The first protective component and the second protective component are identical and each includes an impermeable wall, wherein the impermeable wall has the following characteristics: The first end is located between the outlet and the vertex. The second end, which surrounds the outer perimeter of the deflector, A pair of lateral torsion assist surfaces, the pair of lateral torsion assist surfaces being adjacent to the pair of spaced-apart frame arms. A pair of locking elements, the pair of locking elements being arranged around the vertex, and A release section, which is aligned with the pair of locking elements.

2. The protected fire sprinkler assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The first end of the impermeable wall includes a shielding section.

3. The protected fire sprinkler assembly according to claim 2, wherein, The shielding section includes a concave section and two convex sections arranged laterally about the concave section.

4. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of claim 3, wherein, The concave section is adjacent to the two convex sections, and there is a curved transition between the concave section and each of the convex sections.

5. The protected fire sprinkler assembly according to claim 4, wherein, The pair of lateral torsion auxiliary surfaces includes a first lateral torsion auxiliary surface adjacent to a first convex segment of the two convex segments and a second lateral torsion auxiliary surface adjacent to a second convex segment of the two convex segments.

6. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of claim 5, wherein, The first lateral torsion auxiliary surface includes a first planar member extending parallel to the plane, and the second lateral torsion auxiliary surface includes a second planar member extending parallel to the plane.

7. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of claim 1, wherein, The second end of the deflector surrounding the perimeter includes a first radially extending shielding surface and a peripheral shielding surface that at least partially surrounds the outer perimeter of the fluid deflector.

8. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of claim 7, wherein, It also includes a second radially extending shielding surface, wherein the peripheral shielding surface extends between the first radially extending shielding surface and the second radially extending shielding surface.

9. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of claim 7, wherein, The first end portion includes a torsion-assisted portion.

10. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of claim 9, wherein, The central section of the impermeable wall includes a plurality of central sections that narrow between the first end and the second end.

11. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of claim 10, wherein, Each of the plurality of central sections includes a curved portion disposed along the axis of the central sprayer and a planar portion transverse to the axis of the central sprayer.

12. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of claim 1, wherein, The first end of the impermeable wall includes a trigger shielding section for protecting the thermal response trigger assembly, the trigger shielding section having a first maximum radius from the axis of the central sprayer. The second end surrounding the perimeter of the deflector includes a peripheral shielding surface for protecting the fluid deflector, the peripheral shielding surface having a second maximum radius from the axis of the central sprayer, and Wherein, the second maximum radius is greater than the first maximum radius.

13. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of claim 1, wherein, The pair of locking elements includes an insert and a receiver.

14. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of claim 13, wherein, The insert includes a cylindrical insert and the receiver includes a cylindrical receiver.

15. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of claim 13, wherein, The insert and the receiver are disposed around the central section on the inner surface of the impermeable wall.

16. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of claim 15, wherein, The insert is laterally positioned between the central section and the release section.

17. The protected fire sprinkler assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The release section includes a planar member extending parallel to the plane from either a first longitudinal side of the impermeable wall or a second longitudinal side of the impermeable wall.

18. The protected fire sprinkler assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The first end of the impermeable wall includes a torsion-assisted portion, wherein the torsion-assisted portion includes the pair of lateral torsion-assisted surfaces.

19. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of claim 18, wherein, The torsion assist section also includes a concave section adjacent to the two convex sections, and there is a curved transition between the concave section and each of the convex sections.

20. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of claim 18, wherein, The pair of lateral torsion auxiliary surfaces include a first planar member extending parallel to the plane and a second planar member extending parallel to the plane.

21. The protected fire sprinkler assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The pair of lateral torsion auxiliary surfaces includes a first lateral torsion auxiliary surface disposed on a first longitudinal side of the impermeable wall and a second lateral torsion auxiliary surface disposed on a second longitudinal side of the impermeable wall, wherein the first lateral torsion auxiliary surface includes a first planar member extending parallel to the plane, and the second lateral torsion auxiliary surface includes a second planar member extending parallel to the plane.

22. A protected fire sprinkler assembly characterized by, include: A fire sprinkler includes: a body having an inlet, an outlet, an internal passage extending along a central sprinkler axis between the inlet and the outlet, and an external thread formed around the central sprinkler axis; a pair of spaced-apart frame arms disposed in a plane and extending axially from the body and converging toward each other to form a vertex spaced axially from the outlet along the central sprinkler axis; a thermally responsive trigger disposed along the central sprinkler axis between the outlet and the vertex; and a fluid deflector attached to the vertex, the fluid deflector having an outer perimeter surrounding the vertex; and A protective device is provided around the fire sprinkler, the protective device including a first protective member and a second protective member, the first protective member and the second protective member being identical and facing each other about the plane to at least partially surround the thermal response trigger, the first protective member and the second protective member defining a torsion assist portion, a deflector protection portion, a first releasable locking device at a first lateral portion passing through the plane and located at the apex, a second releasable locking device at a second lateral portion passing through the plane and located at the apex, and a release section aligned with the first releasable locking device and the second releasable locking device.

23. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of claim 22, wherein, The torsion assist portion includes a plurality of torsion assist surfaces adjacent to the pair of spaced-apart frame arms.

24. A protected fire sprinkler assembly characterized by, include: A fire sprinkler includes: a body having an inlet, an outlet, an internal passage extending along a central sprinkler axis between the inlet and the outlet, and an external thread formed around the central sprinkler axis; a pair of spaced-apart frame arms disposed in a plane and extending axially from the body and converging toward each other to form a vertex spaced axially from the outlet along the central sprinkler axis; a thermally responsive trigger disposed along the central sprinkler axis between the outlet and the vertex; and a fluid deflector attached to the vertex, the fluid deflector having an outer perimeter surrounding the vertex; and A protective device, arranged around the fire sprinkler, includes a first protective member and a second protective member that are opposite each other about the plane to at least partially surround the thermal response trigger. The first protective component and the second protective component are identical and each includes an impermeable wall, wherein the impermeable wall has the following characteristics: The first end is located between the outlet and the vertex. The second end, which surrounds the outer perimeter of the deflector, A pair of lateral torsion assist surfaces, the pair of lateral torsion assist surfaces being adjacent to the pair of spaced-apart frame arms. A pair of locking elements, the pair of locking elements being disposed between the first end and the second end, and A release section, which is located near the second end and aligned with the pair of locking elements.

25. The protected fire sprinkler assembly according to claim 24, wherein, The first end of the impermeable wall includes a shielding section.

26. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of claim 25, wherein, The shielding section includes a concave section and two convex sections arranged laterally about the concave section.

27. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of claim 26, wherein, The concave section is adjacent to the two convex sections, and there is a curved transition between the concave section and each of the convex sections.

28. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of claim 27, wherein, The pair of lateral torsion auxiliary surfaces includes a first lateral torsion auxiliary surface adjacent to a first convex segment of the two convex segments and a second lateral torsion auxiliary surface adjacent to a second convex segment of the two convex segments.

29. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of claim 28, wherein, The first lateral torsion auxiliary surface includes a first planar member extending parallel to the plane, and the second lateral torsion auxiliary surface includes a second planar member extending parallel to the plane.

30. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of claim 24, wherein, The second end of the deflector surrounding the perimeter includes a first radially extending shielding surface and a peripheral shielding surface that at least partially surrounds the outer perimeter of the fluid deflector.

31. The protected fire sprinkler assembly according to claim 30, wherein, It also includes a second radially extending shielding surface, wherein the peripheral shielding surface extends between the first radially extending shielding surface and the second radially extending shielding surface.

32. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of claim 30, wherein, The first end portion includes a torsion-assisted portion.

33. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of claim 32, wherein, The central section of the impermeable wall includes a plurality of central sections that narrow between the first end and the second end.

34. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of claim 33, wherein, Each of the plurality of central sections includes a curved portion disposed along the axis of the central sprayer and a planar portion transverse to the axis of the central sprayer.

35. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of claim 24, wherein, The first end of the impermeable wall includes a trigger shielding section for protecting the thermal response trigger assembly, the trigger shielding section having a first maximum radius from the axis of the central sprayer. The second end surrounding the perimeter of the deflector includes a peripheral shielding surface for protecting the fluid deflector, the peripheral shielding surface having a second maximum radius from the axis of the central sprayer, and Wherein, the second maximum radius is greater than the first maximum radius.

36. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of claim 24, wherein, The pair of locking elements includes an insert and a receiver.

37. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of claim 36, wherein, The insert includes a cylindrical insert and the receiver includes a cylindrical receiver.

38. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of claim 36, wherein, The insert and the receiver are disposed on the inner surface of the impermeable wall around a central section adjacent to the second end.

39. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of claim 38, wherein, The insert is laterally positioned between the central section and the release section.

40. The protected fire sprinkler assembly according to claim 24, characterized in that, The release section includes a planar member extending parallel to the plane from either a first longitudinal side of the impermeable wall or a second longitudinal side of the impermeable wall.

41. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of Claim 24, wherein, The first end of the impermeable wall includes a torsion-assisted portion, wherein the torsion-assisted portion includes the pair of lateral torsion-assisted surfaces.

42. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of claim 41, wherein, The torsion assist section also includes a concave section adjacent to the two convex sections, and there is a curved transition between the concave section and each of the convex sections.

43. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of claim 41, wherein, The pair of lateral torsion auxiliary surfaces include a first planar member extending parallel to the plane and a second planar member extending parallel to the plane.

44. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of Claim 24, wherein, The pair of lateral torsion auxiliary surfaces includes a first lateral torsion auxiliary surface disposed on a first longitudinal side of the impermeable wall and a second lateral torsion auxiliary surface disposed on a second longitudinal side of the impermeable wall, wherein the first lateral torsion auxiliary surface includes a first planar member extending parallel to the plane, and the second lateral torsion auxiliary surface includes a second planar member extending parallel to the plane.

45. A protected fire sprinkler assembly comprising: include: A fire sprinkler includes: a body having an inlet, an outlet, an internal passage extending along a central sprinkler axis between the inlet and the outlet, and an external thread formed around the central sprinkler axis; a pair of spaced-apart frame arms disposed in a plane and extending axially from the body and converging toward each other to form a vertex spaced axially from the outlet along the central sprinkler axis; a thermally responsive trigger disposed along the central sprinkler axis between the outlet and the vertex; and a fluid deflector attached to the vertex, the fluid deflector having an outer perimeter surrounding the vertex; and A protective device is provided around the fire sprinkler, the protective device including a first protective member and a second protective member, the first protective member and the second protective member being identical and facing each other about the plane to at least partially surround the thermal response trigger, the first protective member and the second protective member defining a torsion assist portion, a deflector protection portion, a first releasable locking device passing through the plane and located at a first lateral side of the fire sprinkler, a second releasable locking device passing through the plane and located at a second lateral side of the fire sprinkler, and a release section aligned with the first releasable locking device and the second releasable locking device.

46. The protected fire sprinkler assembly of claim 45, wherein, The torsion assist portion includes a plurality of torsion assist surfaces adjacent to the pair of spaced-apart frame arms.

Images