Gas actuated fire suppression system

Abstract

Systems, methods, and devices for fire suppression are described herein. The fire suppression system includes a sprinkler having a thermal device configured to react to a fire incident, a cartridge, and a displacement mechanism configured to engage the cartridge with a lance to release a gas from the cartridge upon the thermal device reacting to the fire incident. The fire suppression system includes a valve module in fluid communication with the sprinkler and coupled to a fluid source. The valve module is configured to allow fluid flow to the sprinkler upon receiving the gas from the sprinkler via a tube that extends between the sprinkler and the valve module.

Description

GAS ACTUATED FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEMCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This PCT Application claims the benefit and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 680,693, filed August 8, 2024, and the benefit and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 626,273, filed January 29, 2024, the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein.BACKGROUND

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to fire suppression systems.

[0003] Fire suppression systems generally include automatic fire sprinklers with a sensing element to detect a fire incident. Sprinklers are in fluid communication with the fire suppressant (for example, water) source. When a fire incident is detected, fire suppressant flows out of the fire suppression system through sprinklers for extinguishing the fire.SUMMARY

[0004] A summary of certain implementations disclosed herein is set forth below. It should be noted that these aspects are presented merely to provide the reader with a brief summary of these certain implementations and that these aspects are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Indeed, this disclosure may encompass a variety of aspects that may not be set forth below.

[0005] An implementation relates to a fire suppression system. The fire suppression system includes a sprinkler having a thermal device configured to react to a fire incident, a cartridge, and a displacement mechanism configured to engage the cartridge with a lance to release a gas from the cartridge upon the thermal device reacting to the fire incident. The fire suppression system includes a valve module in fluid communication with the sprinkler and coupled to a fluid source. The valve module is configured to allow fluid flow to the sprinkler upon receiving the gas from the sprinkler via a tube that extends between the sprinkler and the valve module.

[0006] Another implementation relates to a fire suppression system. The fire suppression system includes a sprinkler having a thermal device configured to react to a fire incident, an outer sleeve, an inner sleeve positioned at least partially within the outer sleeve, a cartridge positioned within the inner sleeve, and a displacement mechanism configured to engage the cartridge with a lance to release a gas from the cartridge upon the thermal device reacting to the fire incident. The fire suppression device includes a valve module in fluid communication with the sprinkler and coupled to a fluid source. The valve module is configured to allow fluid flow to the sprinkler upon receiving the gas from the sprinkler via a tube that extends between the sprinkler and the valve module.

[0007] Another implementation relates to a method. The method includes detecting a fire incident, releasing a gas from a cartridge in a sprinkler, and receiving, by a valve module, the gas released from the cartridge. The method further includes actuating a valve within the valve module, to cause fire suppressant flow from a pipe to the sprinkler and releasing fire suppressant from the sprinkler.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Various objects, aspects, features, and advantages of the disclosure will become more apparent and better understood by referring to the detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters identify corresponding elements throughout. In the drawings, like reference numbers generally indicate identical, functionally similar, and / or structurally similar elements.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a sprinkler unit of a fire suppression system, according to an implementation.

[0010] FIG. 2 is a sectional view of a conduit of the sprinkler unit, according to an implementation.

[0011] FIG. 3 A is a perspective sectional view of a conduit positioned within a braided sheathing.

[0012] FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the braided sheathing of FIG. 3 A.

[0013] FIG. 4A is a perspective sectional view of a sprinkler of the sprinkler unit, according to an implementation.

[0014] FIG. 4B is an enlarged sectional view of a first locking member, according to an implementation.

[0015] FIG. 4C-4D are enlarged views showing engagement of a first locking member with an inner sleeve and an outer sleeve of the sprinkler, according to an implementation.

[0016] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the outer sleeve of the sprinkler, according to an implementation.

[0017] FIG. 6 is a perspective view depicting engagement between a receiver and the inner sleeve of the sprinkler, according to an implementation.

[0018] FIG. 7 is a perspective view depicting an engagement between a receiver and a tube connector, according to an implementation.

[0019] FIG. 8A is an enlarged view of the first locking member and an outlet, according to an implementation.

[0020] FIG. 8B is an isometric view of the retainer cap, according to an implementation.

[0021] FIG. 9 is a perspective sectional view of the sprinkler of FIG. 3 A in an actuated state, according to an implementation.

[0022] FIG. 10 is another sectional view of the sprinkler in the actuated state, according to an implementation.

[0023] FIG. 11 is a perspective sectional view of a sprinkler in an unactuated state, according to an alternative implementation.

[0024] FIG. 12 is a perspective sectional view of the sprinkler of FIG. 10 in an actuated state, according to an implementation.

[0025] FIGS. 13A-13B are perspective sectional views of a sprinkler in an unactuated state, according to another alternative implementation.

[0026] FIGS. 14A-14B are perspective sectional views of the sprinkler of FIGS. BABB in an actuated state, according to an implementation.

[0027] FIG. 15 is a sectional view of a valve module of the sprinkler unit in an unactuated state, according to an implementation.

[0028] FIG. 16A is another sectional view of a valve module of the sprinkler unit in an unactuated state, according to an implementation.

[0029] FIG. 16B is another sectional view of a valve module of the sprinkler unit in an unactuated state, according to an implementation.

[0030] FIG. 17 is a sectional view of the valve module in an actuated state, according to an implementation.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] One or more specific implementations of the present disclosure will be described below. These described implementations are only examples of the presently disclosed techniques. Additionally, in an effort to provide a concise description of these implementations, all features of an actual implementation may not be described in the specification. It should be appreciated that in the development of any such actual implementation, as in any engineering or design project, numerous implementationspecific decisions must be made to achieve the developers’ specific goals, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints, which may vary from one implementation to another. Moreover, it should be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time-consuming, but may nevertheless be a routine undertaking of design, fabrication, and manufacture for those of ordinary skill having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0032] When introducing elements of various implementations of the present disclosure, the articles “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements. Additionally, it should be understood that references to “one implementation” or “an implementation” of the present disclosure are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional implementations that also incorporate the recited features.GAS ACTUATED FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEM

[0033] The present disclosure relates generally to a sprinkler unit having a sprinkler and a valve module. The sprinkler and the valve module are coupled together via a conduit that remains dry when the unit is in an unactuated state. The sprinkler includes a thermal device (for example, a frangible bulb) configured to react to a fire incident (e.g., expand, burst, melt, release a seal, etc.). Further, according to an example, the sprinkler includes a cartridge and displacement mechanism configured to selectively engage the cartridge. Upon engagement with the displacement mechanism, the cartridge may release an actuating force (e.g., gas, fluid, etc.) to an outlet of the sprinkler to the valve module. The displacement mechanism engages the cartridge with a pin or a lance when the thermal device reacts to a fire incident. Upon engagement, the cartridge may release a gas through the outlet. In other examples, the displacement mechanism exerts force on an incompressible fluid when the thermal device reacts to a fire incident. Upon engagement with the displacement mechanism, the incompressible force may be transferred through the sprinkler unit system to actuate the valve module.

[0034] The valve module is coupled to the sprinkler via the conduit. The conduit may be flexible or rigid. The sprinkler unit further includes a tube connected between the outlet of the sprinkler and the valve module that conveys gas and / or fluid to the valve module. The valve module is in fluid communication with a fire suppressant source (e.g., a pipe filled with water, foam fire suppressant, etc.). The valve module includes a fluid valve to selectively allow fluid flow from the fluid source into the valve module. The fluid valve remains in a closed position when the unit is in an unactuated state. The valve module further includes a valve actuating mechanism to actuate the fluid valve when the unit is in an actuated state. In the actuated state, the gas and / or fluid is conveyed to the valve module via the tube. This triggers the valve actuating mechanism to actuate the valve, thereby allowing fluid to enter the valve module. Further, the valve module is configured to facilitate fluid flow from the fluid source to the conduit. Subsequently, the fluid passes to the sprinkler via the conduit. The sprinkler allows outflow of fluid received via the conduit in the actuated state.

[0035] A method having steps of detecting a fire incident is described herein. The method may include releasing a gas from a cartridge or exerting force on anincompressible fluid in a sprinkler. The method may further include receiving, at a valve module, the gas and / or fluid conveyed through a sprinkler outlet to a valve module. The method includes actuating, by the gas and / or fluid, the valve module to release fire suppressant from a pipe. The fire suppressant flows to the sprinkler and releases the fire suppressant from the sprinkler.

[0036] It is to be noted that although the present disclosure is described with reference to water as a fire suppressant, any other suitable fire suppressant (e.g., gaseous fire suppressants like carbon dioxide, foam fire suppressants, powder-based fire suppressants, etc.) may be utilized in other implementations of the present disclosure.

[0037] The unit, system, and method of the present disclosure are now described together in detail with reference to accompanying Figures 1-10.

[0038] FIG. 1 is a side view of a unit 100, according to an implementations. The unit 100 includes a sprinkler 110, a conduit 120, and a valve module 130. The sprinkler 110 and the valve module 130 are coupled together via the conduit 120. Specifically, the sprinkler 110 and the valve module 130 are fluidly coupled together via the conduit 120, such that gas and / or fluid can travel between the sprinkler 110 and the valve module 130 through the conduit 120. In some implementations, the conduit 120 may be a flexible conduit (e.g., helically or annularly corrugated thin wall metal tubing, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), silicone, etc.). In some other implementations, the conduit 120 may be a rigid conduit (e.g., rigid metals, rigid PVC piping, etc.). Further, the conduit 120 may be coupled to the sprinkler 110 and the valve module 130 via suitable coupling arrangements (e.g., threadedly coupled, tension fit, snap fit, welded, adhered, etc.).

[0039] FIG. 2-3B are views of the conduit 120 depicting a portion proximal to the sprinkler 110. As shown in FIG. 2, the conduit 120 includes corrugations 150 along an internal surface of the conduit 120. The corrugations 150 impart flexibility to the conduit 120. In some implementations, the corrugations 150 may be axial or may have a helical pattern.

[0040] The unit 100 includes a tube 170 connected between the sprinkler 110 and the valve module 130. As shown in FIG. 2, the tube 170 is positioned within the conduit 120, however, the tube 170 may be positioned in any suitable location. The tube 170 is configured to carry pressurized gas and / or fluid from the sprinkler 110 to the valvemodule 130. In some examples, the conduit 120 includes sufficient internal circumferential space to accommodate the tube 170, as well as water for fire extinguishing purposes. In some implementations, the tube 170 may be made of suitable high-grade polymeric material or flexible metallic materials. As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, in some examples, a metallic braided sheathing 122 is disposed on the exterior of the conduit 120 (e.g., for protection from the environment, durability, etc.).

[0041] FIG. 4 A is a perspective sectional view of the sprinkler 110 in an unactuated state, according to some implementations. The sprinkler 110 includes an enclosure 180 for housing components of the sprinkler 110. The sprinkler 110 further includes a sprinkler head 190 having a thermal device 200 and the deflector 160. In some implementations, the sprinkler head 190 is engaged with the enclosure 180 via threading.

[0042] The thermal device 200 is configured to react to a fire incident. More specifically, the thermal device 200 is configured to react to a predetermined increase in surrounding temperature (e.g., in ambient temperature, environmental temperature, etc.). Typically, the temperature of the surroundings of the thermal device 200 elevates when there is a fire incident nearby the thermal device 200 (e.g., within the same room as the thermal device 200). However, the temperature of the surroundings of the thermal device 200 may also elevate due to causes other than the fire incident. Although the present disclosure is described with reference to the thermal device 200 being reactive to fire, it should be noted that the thermal device 200 also reacts to elevated temperature in the surrounding areas due to causes other than fire, and the unit 100 may operate in a similar way in both conditions (i.e., increases in surrounding temperature in case of fire and increases in surrounding temperature due to causes other than fire). By way of example, the thermal device 200 is filled with liquid that expands when heated. In this way, the thermal device 200 is configured to react to increase in the temperature of the liquid (e.g., by breaking, melting, releasing a seal, etc.).

[0043] The reaction of the thermal device 200 typically depends on the type of the thermal device 200. The thermal device 200 may be selected based on application of the unit 100, location of the unit 100, distance of the unit 100 from probable fire sites, etc. In some implementations, the thermal device 200 is a fusible link, which may change itsshape (e.g., the link may contract in length, separate into two or more pieces, or melt) when the surrounding temperature elevates beyond a predetermined temperature (e.g., a temperature threshold, etc.). The fusible link may be loaded in the unit 100 in tension (see FIG. 2).

[0044] In some implementations, the thermal device 200 may be a frangible glass bulb. The glass bulb may be similar to bulbs typically employed in fire protection sprinklers. An activation temperature of the glass bulb may be determined based on the application of the unit 100. The glass bulbs come with a variety of activation temperatures. Some standard glass bulbs are available with activation temperatures of 135°F, 155°F, 175°F, 200°F, 286°F, 360°F, etc. The glass bulbs may have different colors corresponding to different activation temperatures.

[0045] The sprinkler head 190 includes an interposing spacer 220, wherein the thermal device 200 is held in place between the interposing spacer 220 and the deflector 160. The interposing spacer 220 may have one or more weep holes. In accompanying figures, the interposing spacer 220 is shown as one piece. However, in other implementations, the interposing spacer 220 may include two or more pieces to help the interposing spacer 220 dislodge under water pressure without causing damage to the deflector 160.

[0046] The sprinkler 110 further includes an outer sleeve 230, an inner sleeve 240, and a cartridge 250. The outer sleeve 230 is positioned within the enclosure 180 and spaced apart from the inner surface of the enclosure 180 such that a fluid passage 245 is defined between the outer sleeve 230 and the enclosure 180. Additionally, the outer sleeve 230 includes fluid apertures 350 (see FIG. 5) which enable fluid passage from the sprinkler 110 to the surrounding environment. The outer sleeve 230 may be attached to the sprinkler head 190. The outer sleeve 230 has a hollow configuration and open ends. The inner sleeve 240 is positioned at least partially within the outer sleeve 230. In some implementations, the inner sleeve 240 is slidably disposed in the outer sleeve 230. Further, the cartridge 250 may be disposed in the inner sleeve 240. The cartridge 250 is filled with pressurized gas. Preferably, non-toxic gases are filled in the cartridge 250. Some non-limiting examples of the gas filled in the cartridge 250 are CO2, N2O, LPG,SF6, N2, Argon, helium, oxygen, etc. Blended gases can also be used in the cartridge 250.

[0047] It is to be noted that the cartridge 250 is not limited to the aforementioned example, and any other suitable gas cylinder can be employed as the cartridge 250. Length and bore diameter of the cartridge 250 can be adjusted to accommodate the gas with the required pressure and volume. For example, in some implementations, the cartridge 250 may be provided with a pressure regulator to control total time of discharging the gas, considering the tradeoff between associated lower pressure and total time for which the gas is to be discharged.

[0048] The sprinkler 110 further includes a displacement mechanism 260 configured to engage the cartridge 250 with an outlet 270 when the unit 100 is actuated (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 8A, 9-10). The displacement mechanism 260 includes a plunger 280 abutting a bottom end of the cartridge 250 (e.g., the end of the cartridge closest to the deflector 160). The displacement mechanism 260 further includes a standoff 295 positioned between the interposing spacer 220 and the inner sleeve 240. A spring 290 connected with the plunger 280 remains in a compressed state when the unit 100 is in an unactuated state. The actuated state and unactuated state are defined by the presence / state of the thermal device 200. For example, in the unactuated state, the thermal device 200 is present or in a pre-reaction state (e.g., fully extended, etc.), such that the thermal device 200 opposes a force of the spring 290 exerted on the interposing spacer 220 and the standoff 295. In the actuated state, the thermal device 200 is not present (e.g., because it burst, melted, etc.) or is in a post-reaction state (e.g., has contracted in length, etc.). In this way, the thermal device 200 no longer opposes the force exerted on the interposing spacer 220 and the standoff 295 by the spring 290, thereby allowing the spring 290 to extend from the compressed position.

[0049] The displacement mechanism 260 further includes one or more first locking members 300 positioned in slots of the outer sleeve 230 and inner sleeve 240. In some implementations, the displacement mechanism 260 may include three first locking members 300, however, the number of the first locking members 300 may alter in other implementations of the present disclosure.

[0050] The sprinkler 110 further includes a receiver 310 that closes one end of the inner sleeve 240. The receiver 310 includes the outlet 270, which extends through the receiver 310. The outlet 270 facilitates the outflow of gas and / or fluid. In some examples, the receiver 310 includes a lance 272 to puncture the cartridge 250 when the cartridge 250 engages with the outlet 270. Additionally, the tube 170 is attached to the receiver 310 such that the outlet 270 extends between the tube 170 and the cartridge 250. In this way, the outlet 270 allows gas and / or fluid to proceed through the outlet 270 and the tube 170 to the valve module 130.

[0051] The receiver 310 receives gas-releasing portion of the cartridge 250 (e.g., a nose of the cartridge 250) such that the cartridge 250 is spaced apart from the lance 272 in the unactuated state of the unit 100. Further, the receiver 310 may have one or more seals 275 (shown in FIG. 6) provided to seal space between the gas-releasing portion of the cartridge 250 and the receiver 310.

[0052] The receiver 310 may have any suitable shape. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the receiver 310 may be dome-shaped to provide minimum resistance to water flowing through the enclosure 180. Additionally or alternatively, as shown in FIG. 6, the receiver may be relatively cylindrical in shape, and may include threads such that it may be threadedly coupled with the tube connector 314.

[0053] Still referring to FIG. 4A, in the unactuated state, the cartridge 250 attempts to advance the first locking member 300 into the slot of the outer sleeve 230 under the influence of the force from the spring 290. The first locking member 300 exerts force on the edges of the slot of the inner sleeve 240. However, as the thermal device 200 is in place, any relative motion between the inner sleeve 240 and the outer sleeve 230 is prevented. This retains the first locking member 300 in its place as shown in FIG. 4A. Thus, the cartridge 250 remains in its place, and is not engaged with the outlet 270. The sprinkler 110 remains in the unactuated state as long as the thermal device 200 is intact.

[0054] FIG. 4B is an enlarged view of the sprinkler 110 shown in FIG. 4A. As shown in FIG. 4B, the first locking member 300 is positioned in a space between the inner sleeve 240 and the cartridge 250. The first locking member 300 is positioned such that the first locking member 300 is engaged in a first slot 302 configured on the innersleeve 240 and in a second slot 360 configured on the outer sleeve 230. In some implementations, the first locking member 300 may be a ball of a ball bearing.

[0055] In some implementations, a plurality of the first locking members may be provided around the cartridge 250 in the inner sleeve 240. In some implementations, the unit 100 includes three first locking members 300 positioned radially and 120 degrees apart. Further, holes similar to the first slot 302 and the second slot 360 may be configured on the inner sleeve 240 and the outer sleeve 230, respectively, to selectively receive the first locking members 300.

[0056] FIG. 4C is another enlarged view of the unit 100 depicting the inner sleeve 240 and the outer sleeve 230. The first locking member 300 is shown to be engaged in the first slot 302 and the second slot 360. The first slot 302 may have a uniform area allowing passing of the first locking member 300 therethrough. The second slot 360 may have a variable area, such that the first locking member 300 cannot pass through the second slot 360 unless a particular portion of the first slot 302 is aligned with the second slot 360. For example, as shown in FIG. 4D, the second slot 360 may be an elongated slot. In some implementations, the second slot 360 may have a first arcuate portion 362 and a second arcuate portion 364. The first arcuate portion 362 and the second arcuate portion 364 may be connected by sloped walls 366.

[0057] The first slot 302 may have an area that allows the first locking member 300 to pass through the first slot 302. Further, the first arcuate portion 362 of the second slot 360 is configured to prevent passing of the first locking member 300 through the second slot 360. The second arcuate portion 364 is configured to allow passing of the first locking member 300 through the second slot 360 when the first locking member 300 is exposed to the second arcuate portion 364. In this way, the locking member 300 may be pushed aside by the cartridge 250 upon the first locking member aligning with the second arcuate portion 364. In this way, the cartridge 250 can be displaced towards the outlet 270 without hindrance by the locking member 300.

[0058] FIG. 5 is another perspective view of the outer sleeve 230. The outer sleeve 230 has a pair of open ends, shown as a first end 330 and a second end 340. The outer sleeve 230 is positioned in the enclosure 180 such that the first end 330 is proximal to the receiver 310 and the second end 340 is proximal to the interposing spacer 220. Theouter sleeve 230 has one or more fluid apertures 350 to facilitate fluid flow. More specifically, water in the enclosure 180 flows towards the fluid outlet 225 via the fluid apertures 350. The outer sleeve 230 has the elongated second slot 360 for receiving the first locking member 300.

[0059] Referring now to FIGS. 6 and 7, sectional views of the receiver 310 are shown, according to some implementations. The receiver 310 is provided with a snap ring 370 configured to fit into a circumferential groove 380 on the inner sleeve 240. The inner sleeve 240 has a chamfered end 390 that compresses the snap ring 370 when the receiver 310 enters the inner sleeve 240. The snap ring 370 expands as it is received in the circumferential groove 380, thereby locking the receiver 310 with the inner sleeve 240. The receiver 310 can be unlocked from the inner sleeve 240 using a disassembly tool that is engaged in one or more slots 400 configured on the inner sleeve 240. The slot(s) 400 extends beyond the circumferential groove 380. The tool compresses the snap ring 370 so that the receiver 310 is unlocked. In some other implementations, the receiver 310 may be engaged with the inner sleeve 240 by any other suitable techniques. For example, the receiver 310 and the inner sleeve 240 may have complementary engageable threads to secure the receiver 310 and the inner sleeve 240. In some other examples, a pin may be employed instead of the snap ring 370 to secure the receiver 310 and the inner sleeve 240.

[0060] The receiver 310 is shown to include a passage 312 having the outlet 270 and lance 272 at one end thereof and a tube connector 314 at another end. As shown in FIG. 6, the outlet 270 may be coupled with the receiver 310 via a barbed connection. In other implementations, the outlet 270 may be in connection with the receiver 310 via any other suitable means.

[0061] The tube connector 314 is configured to facilitate the connection of the tube 170 with the receiver 310, and more specifically, with the passage 312. In some implementations, and as shown in FIG. 6, the passage 312 is a separate component provided in the receiver 310. In some other implementations, and as shown in FIG. 7, the passage 312 may be integrally formed with the receiver 310. For example, the receiver 310 may have a long recess acting as the passage 312. As shown in FIG. 7, the tube connector 314 may be relatively cylindrical and include threads disposedcircumferentially around the tube connector 314. In some implementations, the tube connector 314 includes a ferrule 316 that extends between the tube connector 314 and the passage 312. In this way, the ferrule 316 may seal any gaps between the passage 312 and the interior of the tube connector 314. In some implementations, the ferrule 316 and tube connector 314 are a unitary body.

[0062] FIG. 8 A is an enlarged view of the sprinkler 110 depicting a retainer cap 410. In some implementations, the retainer cap 410 may be provided surrounding the outer sleeve 230 and proximal to the first locking member 300. The retainer cap 410 is configured to retain the first locking member 300 when the first locking member 300 is displaced from its place during actuation of the unit 100. This prevents ejection of the first locking member 300 out of the outer sleeve 230 and displaced (e.g., by water flowing through the enclosure 180 in the actuated state of the unit 100).

[0063] The retainer cap 410 may have a recessed portion 420 configured on an inner surface thereof to retain the first locking member 300. Further, the retainer cap 410 can be secured to the outer sleeve 230 by any suitable means. In some implementations, the retainer cap 410 has a locking feature 430 (e.g., a hook or a tab, etc.) that locks with another slot 440 on the outer sleeve 230. The locking feature 430 may have a hole to insert a tool for unlocking the retainer cap 410 from the outer sleeve 230.

[0064] FIG. 8B is an isometric view of the retainer cap 410. The retainer cap 410 may have a hole 412 to place the first locking member 300 in a position shown in FIG. 8 A. During assembly, the retainer cap 410 is mounted on the outer sleeve 230. Further, the first locking member 300 is inserted through the hole 412. The retainer cap 410 is then slightly rotated such that the first locking member 300 is between the hole 412 and the recessed portion 420. This prevents the first locking member 300 from ejecting out of its place, and accidental actuation of the unit 100 during assembly or bulb testing activity. Finally, the retainer cap 410 is further rotated to align the recessed portion 420 with the first locking member 300 once assembly is completed. The locking feature 430 on the retainer cap 410 is so positioned that when the recessed portion 420 aligns with the first locking member 300, the locking feature 430 is received in the hole on the outer sleeve 230, thereby securing retainer cap 410 with the outer sleeve 230.

[0065] In an unactuated state, the spring 290 exerts force on the standoff 295 and the cartridge 250. Force on the cartridge 250 is transferred to the first locking member 300, which exerts force on the edge of the first slot 302 of the inner sleeve 240. However, the inner sleeve 240 cannot be displaced due to the presence of the thermal device 200 and the configuration of the unit 100. Also, the geometry of the second slot 360 of the outer sleeve prevents the first locking member 300 from advancing due to the geometry of the second slot 360 on the outer sleeve 230. Thus, the unit 100 remains in an unactuated state.

[0066] FIGS. 9 and 10 show perspective sectional views of the sprinkler 110 in an actuated state, according to an implementation. As discussed above, when the thermal device 200 reacts to a fire incident (e.g., bursts, melts, contracts in length, etc.), the unit 100 shifts into an actuated state. Before the thermal device 200 reacts to a fire incident, the first locking member 300 is experiencing force exerted by the spring 290 via the cartridge 250. Upon the thermal device 200 reacting to a fire incident, force on the inner sleeve 240 and the spring 290 via the standoff 195 preventing displacement of the inner sleeve 240 is absent or reduced. The first locking member 300 continues to exert force on the edge of the first slot 302 under the influence of the force imparted by the spring 290. The first locking member 300 causes the inner sleeve 240 to move slightly in the direction of the deflector 160, and the first locking member 300 rides on the sloped walls 366 of the second slot 360. The first locking member 300 further moves to the second arcuate portion 364 as the inner sleeve 240 is displaced. Thus, the cartridge 250 is now free to move towards the outlet 270. Additionally, the spring 290 extends relative to an initial / unactuated compressed position. In this way, force is imparted by the spring 290 onto the cartridge 250 and pushes the cartridge 250 to engage with the outlet 270 and the lance 272. The lance 272 punctures the cartridge 250 to release pressurized gas from the cartridge 250. The pressurized gas travels through the outlet 270 and gas passage 312 to the tube 170. In this way, the pressurized gas can be conveyed through the tube 170 to the valve module 130.

[0067] The cartridge 250 may move slightly away from the outlet 270 due to gas being released. More specifically, the released gas exerts force on a surface of the cartridge facing the outlet 270. This pushes the cartridge 250 towards the outlet 270. However, backward movement of the cartridge 250 is limited due to the geometry of theplunger 280 provided with the spring 290. The cartridge 250 may move away from the outlet 270 up to the seal 275 provided in the receiver 310.

[0068] The pressurized gas is conveyed to the valve module 130. As will be described in greater detail with regard to FIGS. 15-17, the valve actuating mechanism actuates the valve to allow water to flow into the valve module 130. Water flows to the sprinkler 110 via the conduit 120. Water flows through the fluid passage 245 to reach the fluid outlet 225. Due to the pressure of water, the interposing spacer 220 is ejected from the sprinkler head 190, thereby opening the fluid outlet 225 and enabling water to exit the sprinkler 110 for extinguishing the fire.

[0069] In some other implementations, the interposing spacer 220 may be dislodged via a suitable mechanism that dislodges the interposing spacer 220 before water exerts pressure on the interposing spacer 220. Thus, water may have unrestricted passage as the interposing spacer 220 is dislodged prior to water reaching the interposing spacer 220.

[0070] Referring now to FIG. 11, a perspective sectional view of the sprinkler 110 in an unactuated state is shown, according to an alternative implementation. The sprinkler 110 is shown to include an enclosure 180 for housing components of the sprinkler 110. The sprinkler 110 further includes a sprinkler head 190 having a thermal device 200 and a deflector 160. In some implementations, the sprinkler head 190 is engaged with the enclosure 180 via threading.

[0071] In this implementation, the outer sleeve 230 is structured as a support for the inner sleeve 240. The inner sleeve 240, similar to the implementation shown in FIGS. 4A-10, houses the cartridge 250. The inner sleeve 240 and outer sleeve 230 are positioned within the enclosure 180 and spaced apart from an inner surface of the enclosure 180 such that a fluid passage 245 is defined between the outer sleeve 230 and the enclosure 180. The outer sleeve 230 is shown to be threadedly coupled with the sprinkler head 190 at a first end and is coupled with the inner sleeve 240 at a second end (e.g., via snap fit, barbed fitting, adhesive, threading, etc.). A plug 276 is positioned on the end of the inner sleeve 240 and outer sleeve 230 nearest the deflector 160. The plug 276 is shown to be coupled with the inner sleeve 240 via a snap ring connection. For example, the inner sleeve 240 is shown to include a circumferential groove 274configured to receive a ring positioned circumferentially around the plug 276 (e.g., a snap ring, etc.). In some implementations, circumferential groove 274 includes equally spaced slots that are positioned on an outer periphery of the plug 276 in an axial orientation. The slots may receive a tool that compresses the snap ring for disassembly. The inner sleeve 240 may include a chamfered end that compresses the snap ring when the plug enters the inner sleeve 240. The snap ring expands as it is received in the circumferential groove, thereby locking the plug with the inner sleeve 240. The plug is shown to include an opening configured to receive a standoff 195 therethrough. In some examples, a lance 272 extends axially from the end of the plug abutting the cartridge 250.

[0072] The standoff 195 is structured as a split pin that extends between the interposing spacer 220 and the cartridge 250. In this implementation, the standoff 195 includes legs 196, which support the cartridge 250. One or more seals 275 (e.g., O- rings, etc.) are positioned around the standoff 195. The seals 275 may be heat resistant, water resistant, oil resistant, or the like. In some examples, the seals 275 provide a sealed connection between the standoff 195 and the plug 276. Additional seals 275 may be positioned circumferentially around the plug to provide a sealed connection between the plug and the inner sleeve 240. As shown in FIG. 11, a retaining pin 277 extends through the legs 196 of the standoff 195. The retaining pin 277 is shown to protrude past the outer edge of the legs 196. In the unactuated state, the retaining pin 277 is spaced apart from the plug 276.

[0073] The sprinkler 110 further includes a displacement mechanism 260 configured to engage the cartridge 250 with the lance 272 of the plug when the unit 100 is actuated (e.g., as shown in FIG. 12). The displacement mechanism 260 includes a plunger 280 abutting a bottom end of the cartridge 250 (e.g., the end of the cartridge closest to the tube 170). A spring 290 connected with the plunger 280 remains in a compressed state when the unit 100 is in an unactuated state. The actuated state and unactuated state are defined by the presence / state of the thermal device 200. For example, in the unactuated state, the thermal device 200 is present or in a pre-reaction state (e.g., fully extended, etc.), such that the thermal device 200 opposes a force of the spring 290 exerted on the interposing spacer 220 and the standoff 295. In the actuated state, the thermal device 200 is not present (e.g., because it burst, melted, etc.) or is in a post-reaction state (e.g.,has contracted in length, etc.). In this way, the thermal device 200 no longer opposes the force exerted on the interposing spacer 220 and the standoff 295 by the spring 290, thereby allowing the spring 290 to extend from the compressed position.

[0074] The sprinkler 110 is shown to include the receiver 310 and tube connector 314 of FIG. 7, which close one end of the inner sleeve 240. As discussed above, the receiver 310 includes the outlet 270, which extends through the receiver 310. In this example, the receiver 310 abuts the displacement mechanism 260. An annular space between an outer diameter of the cartridge 250 and an inner diameter of the inner sleeve 240, and an annular space between an outer diameter of the plunger 280 and the inner diameter of the inner sleeve 240, accommodates the flow of gas and / or liquid through the displacement mechanism to the outlet 270. Additionally, the tube connector 314 attaches the tube 170 to the receiver 310 such that the outlet 270 extends between the tube 170 and the cartridge 250. In this way, the outlet 270 allows gas and / or fluid to proceed through the outlet 270 and the tube 170 to the valve module 130.

[0075] In this example, in the unactuated state, the cartridge 250 attempts to advance towards the lance 272 extending from the plug 276 under the influence of the force from the spring 290. However, the standoff 295, and more specifically the legs 296 of the standoff, hold the cartridge 250 in place, due to the support of the thermal device 200 and the interposing spacer 220 while the unit 100 is in the unactuated state. In this way, the legs 296 of the standoff 295 support a gas-releasing end of the cartridge 250, such that space exists between the gas-releasing end of the cartridge 250 and the lance 272.

[0076] Referring now to FIG. 12, the sprinkler 110 of FIG. 11 is shown in an actuated state. As discussed above, when the thermal device 200 reacts to a fire incident (e.g., bursts, melts, contracts in length, etc.), the unit 100 shifts into an actuated state. Before the thermal device 200 reacts to a fire incident, the standoff 295 is experiencing force exerted by the spring 290 via the cartridge 250, however, the standoff 295 is held in place by the thermal device 200 and the interposing spacer 220. Upon the thermal device 200 reacting to a fire incident, the resistive force provided by the thermal device 200 on the standoff 295 is no longer present, thereby allowing the spring 290 to extend. In this way, force is imparted by the spring 290 onto the cartridge 250 and pushes the cartridge 250, along with the standoff 295, towards the deflector 160. The lance 272extending axially from the plug 276 comes into contact with and punctures the cartridge 250 to release pressurized gas from the cartridge 250. The pressurized gas travels through the outlet 270 and gas passage 312 to the tube 170. In this way, the pressurized gas can be conveyed through the tube 170 to the valve module 130. The standoff 295 continues to move towards the deflector 160 until the retaining pin 277 comes into contact with the plug 276. The retaining pin 277 serves to prevent the standoff 295 from being displaced / ejected from the plug 276 due to the release of pressurized gas from the cartridge 250.

[0077] The pressurized gas is conveyed to the valve module 130. As will be described in greater detail with regard to FIGS. 15-17, the valve actuating mechanism actuates the valve to allow water to flow into the valve module 130. Water flows to the sprinkler 110 via the conduit 120. Water flows through the fluid passage 245 to reach the fluid outlet 225. Due to the pressure of water, the interposing spacer 220 is ejected from the sprinkler head 190, thereby opening the fluid outlet 225 and enabling water to exit the sprinkler 110 for extinguishing the fire. In some other implementations, the interposing spacer 220 may be dislodged via a suitable mechanism that dislodges the interposing spacer 220 before water exerts pressure on the interposing spacer 220. Thus, water may have unrestricted passage as the interposing spacer 220 is dislodged prior to water reaching the interposing spacer 220.

[0078] Referring now to FIGS. 13A and 13B, showing a side sectional view and a bottom sectional view, respectively, of the sprinkler 110 in an unactuated state, according to an implementation. The sprinkler 110 shown in FIGS. 13A-14B may be the same or substantially similar to the sprinkler 110 shown in FIGS. 11-12. However, in the examples shown in FIGS. 13A-14B, the cartridge 250 is a blank ammunition cartridge (e.g., a 6 mm acorn blank, .22 caliber blanks, 8mm blanks, 9 mm blanks, etc.) and a firing pin 273. The cartridge 250 shown in FIGS. 13A-14B includes an ignitable material (e.g., such as gunpowder or some other ignitable material such as nitrocellulose, nitroglycerin, cordite, liquid fuel, a combination thereof, etc.) within the cartridge 250, a primer, and a seal. For example, the cartridge 250 may include a percussive rim fire primer that is incorporated around the periphery of a rim 252 at the base of the cartridge 250. The percussive rim fire primer consists of a sensitive priming compound that detonates when struck or compressed.

[0079] As shown in FIG. 13 A, the legs 296 of the standoff 295 support the cartridge 250 while the unit 100 is in an unactuated position. In this example, the legs 296 are positioned aside the rim 252 (e.g., nearer the center of the cartridge 250), such that the legs 296 do not compress the rim 252 to detonate the percussive rim fire primer. As shown in FIG. 13B, the firing pin 273 extends axially from the plug 276 such that the firing pin 273 aligns with the rim 252 of the cartridge 250. In this way, the displacement mechanism 260 may push the cartridge 250 into the firing pin 273 upon actuation of the unit 100. It should be noted that FIGS. 13A and 13B are various sectional views of the same sprinkler 110 implementation.

[0080] FIGS. 14A and 14B show the sprinkler 110 of FIGS. 13A-13B in an actuated state. As discussed above, when the thermal device 200 reacts to a fire incident (e.g., bursts, melts, contracts in length, etc.), the unit 100 shifts into an actuated state. Before the thermal device 200 reacts to a fire incident, the standoff 295 is experiencing force exerted by the spring 290 via the cartridge 250, however, the standoff 295 is held in place by the thermal device 200 and the interposing spacer 220. Upon the thermal device 200 reacting to a fire incident, the resistive force provided by the thermal device 200 on the standoff 295 is no longer present, thereby allowing the spring 290 to extend from the compressed position. In this way, force is imparted by the spring 290 onto the cartridge 250 and pushes the cartridge 250, along with the standoff 295, towards the deflector 160. The firing pin 273 extending axially from the plug 276 comes into contact with and compresses the rim 252 of the cartridge 250 as the cartridge 250 is pushed towards the deflector 160. This compression of the rim 252 detonates the primer within the rim 252 and generates a flame. The flame ignites the material contained within the cartridge 250, which in turn, causes the walls of the cartridge 250 to expand and release the gases produced by the combustion of the ignitable material. The combustive gases released by the ignition of the ignitable material travel through the outlet 270 and the tube 170 until the reach the valve module 130. The standoff 295 continues to move towards the deflector 160 until the retaining pin 277 comes into contact with the plug 276. The retaining pin 277 serves to prevent the standoff 295 from being displaced / ejected from the plug 276 due to the release of pressurized gas from the cartridge 250.

[0081] The pressurized gas is conveyed to the valve module 130. As will be described in greater detail with regard to FIGS. 15-17, the valve actuating mechanism actuates the valve to allow water flow into the valve module 130. Water flows to the sprinkler 110 via the conduit 120. Water flows through the fluid passage 245 to reach the fluid outlet 225. Due to the pressure of water, the interposing spacer 220 is ejected from the sprinkler head 190, thereby opening the fluid outlet 225 and enabling water to exit the sprinkler 110 for extinguishing the fire. In some other implementations, the interposing spacer 220 may be dislodged via a suitable mechanism that dislodges the interposing spacer 220 before water exerts pressure on the interposing spacer 220. Thus, water may have unrestricted passage as the interposing spacer 220 is dislodged prior to water reaching the interposing spacer 220.

[0082] In some implementations, the cartridge 250 is omitted. Instead, a reservoir is defined within the inner sleeve 240. According to some implementations, the reservoir, passage 312, and tube 170 are filled with an incompressible fluid (e.g., water, hydraulic oil, glycerin, etc.). A spring actuated displacement mechanism, similar to the displacement mechanism 260, having a plunger hermitically sealed with the inner diameter of the inner sleeve 240 may be positioned aside the reservoir. A spring within the displacement mechanism may extend from a compressed position or position of tension responsive to the thermal device 200 reacting to a fire event. The extension of the spring exerts force on the incompressible fluid (e.g., via a hermitically sealed plunger). In this way, pressure is transmitted through the incompressible fluid in the reservoir, through the incompressible fluid within the tube 170, and into the valve module 130. In some examples, the displacement mechanism may be held in a position of compression or tension by a locking mechanism.

[0083] The reservoir may include a port for a bleeder valve or screw, which is used to remove air and unwanted gases from the incompressible fluid. As the incompressible fluid in the reservoir operates under pressure, the presence of air pockets or gas can interfere with the fluid’s ability to transfer pressure effectively. The bleeder valve is typically designed with a small screw or valve mechanism that can be manually or automatically adjusted to open and release trapped air. When air or gas accumulates in the reservoir, the bleeder valve may be opened slightly to let the air or gas escape (i.e., “bleed”) from the incompressible fluid. Such a bleeding process may occur during themanufacturing of the unit 100, during the installation of the unit 100, and / or during the maintenance of the unit 100. The bleeder valve may be manual or automatic.

[0084] FIGS. 15-16B show sectional views of the valve module 130 in an unactuated state, according to some implementations. The valve module 130 is shown to include a coupling 450 configured to be attached to a fluid source. As shown in FIG. 15 and 16A, the coupling 450 can include external threads for attachment with a pipe filled with water. In other implementations, the coupling 450 may be secured to the pipe by other suitable means (e.g., welded, tension fit, clamps, etc.). The valve module 130 further includes a housing 460 for a valve actuating mechanism 470. The housing 460 may be attached to the coupling 450. In some implementations, the housing 460 and the coupling 450 are secured via a retaining ring 480. One or more seals 490 may be provided at an interface of the housing 460 and the coupling 450 to prevent leakage. The coupling 450 is rotatable with respect to the housing 460 for ease of installation. The valve module 130 may include an adapter 500 for coupling the housing 460 to the conduit 120. For example, an outer surface of the housing 460 may be engaged with an inner surface of the adapter 500 via threading.

[0085] As shown in FIG. 16B, in some implementations, the housing 460 is omitted and the coupling 450 is configured to couple with the adapter 500 directly (e.g., by threading, welding, tension fit, etc.). The coupling 450 is shown, in this implementation, to include a groove 452 positioned circumferentially around the coupling 450. The pipe filled with water may include a similar groove. In this way, a clamp may engage with the groove 452 of the coupling and a groove of the pipe filled with water. For example, the coupling 450 may be positioned to abut and axially align with the pipe. The clamp is then positioned circumferentially around the pipe and the coupling 450. The clamp may then be tightened (e.g., using nuts and bolts, etc.) to engage with the groove 452 of the coupling 450 and the groove of the pipe. In some examples, the clamp includes a gasket that is positioned at an interface between the coupling 450 and the pipe. In this way, the gasket hermetically seals the coupling 450 to the pipe.

[0086] The use of a groove and clamp connection rather than a threaded connection to couple the coupling 450 to the pipe may lead to quicker and / or easier installation, particularly in installation applications having space constraints. For example, athreaded connection may require use of one or more open end wrenches to engage the threaded portion of the coupling 450 with a threaded portion of the pipe (e.g., by engaging a hex feature positioned on an exterior of the valve module 130). Conversely, adjustment of the clamp merely requires direct access to the tightening members (e.g., the nuts and bolts). This also allows for the use of portable electric driving devices for quicker installation / adjustment of the tightening members of the clamp. In applications using chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) plastic piping, grooved connections do not require a Tee style adapter fitting and metal mounting straps. Instead, an elbow or straight adapter and one clamping strap can be used, which simplifies the installation process. Additionally, the groove and clamp connection allows a user to rotate the coupling 450 relative to the pipe, prior to securing the clamp, without the need for additional tools (e.g., the user may rotate the coupling 450 relative to the pipe by hand). Beneficially, this allows the user to easily adjust the alignment of the deflector 160 of the sprinkler 110.

[0087] Technically and beneficially, the coupling 450 of FIG. 16B reduces the complexity and cost of the valve module 130 by eliminating one or more components of the valve module 130. For example, the one or more seals 490 provided at an interface of the housing 460 and the coupling 450, and the retaining ring 480 that couples the housing 460 and the coupling 450, as shown in FIG. 16A, can be omitted. Other coupling materials between the coupling 450 and the pipe, such as sealing tape, may also be omitted. Beneficially, consolidating the housing 460 and the coupling 450 being consolidated into a single component eliminates a potential leak path between the coupling 450 and the housing 460 due to these items being consolidated into one piece.

[0088] The valve module 130 further includes a valve 510 provided to control fluid flow from the fluid source into the valve module 130. The valve 510 may include a plug 512 and a Belleville washer 514 resting on a seat in the housing 460. In some examples, the Belleville washer 514 includes a coating (e.g., polytetrafluoroethylene (FTFE) or the like) on a top side and a bottom side of the Belleville washer 514 configured to create a sealing connection between the Belleville washer 514 to the housing 460 and the plug 512. The valve actuating mechanism 470 is configured to operate the valve 510. The valve actuating mechanism 470 includes a strut 515 having a first end 520 connected to the valve 510. The valve actuating mechanism 470 is shown to include a main spring530 attached to the strut 515. The main spring 530 remains in a compressed state while the unit 100 is in an unactuated state. The main spring 530 rests on a seat 540 that protrudes slightly inwards from an inner surface of the housing 460. In some implementations, the main spring 530 is omitted (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B).

[0089] The strut 515 has a cylindrical cavity at a second end 550 configured to receive a cylinder 560. The valve actuating mechanism 470 further includes one or more second locking members 570 positioned in hole(s) 580 of the cylinder 560 and interacting with the second end 550. The second end 550 may have a profile that pushes the second locking member 570 inside the cylinder 560. The valve actuating mechanism 470 further includes a spring-loaded piston 590 placed within the cylinder 560 such that the piston 590 is movable in the cylinder 560. One or more seals may be provided between the piston 590 and an inner surface of the cylinder 560. A spring 630 is positioned within the piston 590. The spring 630 may be a low-force spring that keeps the piston 590 in place during assembly of the valve module 130.

[0090] The piston 590 has a recess 600 (e.g., a circumferential recess) configured such that the recess 600 aligns with the second locking member 570 when the piston 590 is moved towards the spring 630. In the unactuated state, the second locking members 570 and the recess 600 are unaligned. A fitting 610 is provided on the piston 590 to seal an open end of the cylinder 560. The fitting 610 may have a fluid path in communication with the tube 170 to allow pressurized gas from the tube 170 to exert pressure on the piston 590. Appropriate sealing may be provided between the fitting 610 and the cylinder 560 to prevent gas leakage. The cylinder 560 may be supported via a support 620 attached to the cylinder 560 and engaged to an inner surface of the housing 460. As shown in FIG. 16A-16B, the support 620 is structured as a cylindrical support having a plurality of apertures 612. The support 620 is shown to include a first end having a threaded opening configured to receive threads positioned on an exterior surface of the cylinder 560. A second end of the support 620 is shown to include threads positioned circumferentially around an exterior surface of the support 620. In this way, the support 620 may threadedly couple with the housing 460.

[0091] In the unactuated state of the unit 100, the main spring 530 exerts force on the strut 515 to push the strut 515 in the direction of the cylinder 560. Additionally, theBelleville washer 514 acts as a spring and exerts force on the strut 515. Water within the pipe to which the valve module 130 is connected also exerts force on the valve 510 and the strut 515. Due to this, the strut 515 exerts force on the second locking member 570, which is unable to move inside the cylinder 560 due to the geometry of the piston 590. In this state, the valve 510 is in a closed position. The valve 510 remains in the closed position due to the strut 515 being held in place by the second locking member 570, and the piston 590 held in place due to friction between the piston 590 and the second locking member 570. The valve module 130 remains in the closed position until the unit 100 detects fire incident (e.g., until the thermal device 200 reacts to a fire incident).

[0092] FIG. 17 is a sectional view of the valve module 130 in the actuated state of the unit 100. In some implementations (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 9, 11, 13A, and 13B), in the actuated state, the cartridge 250 releases gas, which is further transported to the fitting 610 via the tube 170. The gas passes through the fluid path in the fitting 610 and exerts force on the piston 590 to overcome the frictional force exerted on the piston 590 by the second locking member 570. In other implementations (e.g., as shown in FIG. 15), in the actuated state, the displacement mechanism 260 exerts force on incompressible fluid within the reservoir 285. The pressure introduced by the displacement mechanism 260 within the incompressible fluid within the reservoir 285 is transferred through the incompressible fluid within the tube 170 and to the piston 590. In this way, the force exerted by the displacement mechanism 260 is transferred to the piston 590 via the piston 590. This force on the piston 590 causes the piston 590 to overcome the frictional force exerted on the piston 590 by the locking member 570.

[0093] As the piston 590 moves towards the spring 630, the recess 600 aligns with the second locking member 570, and the second locking member 570 is received in the recess 600. In this way, the second locking member 570 no longer obstructs the movement of the strut 515. The strut 515 may then move in the direction of the fitting 610 under the influence of the main spring 530 and / or under the force on the strut 515 imposed by the Belleville washer 514 and the pressure of the water within the pipe, resulting in displacing the valve 510 to allow water flow into the valve module 130. The apertures 612 of the support 620 allow water to flow through the support 620 to the adapter 500 and subsequently to the conduit 120. The water flows to the sprinkler 110 via the conduit and through the fluid passage 245 to reach the fluid outlet 225. Due tothe pressure of water, the interposing spacer 220 is ejected from the sprinkler head 190, thereby opening the fluid outlet 225 and enabling water to exit the sprinkler 110 for extinguishing the fire (e.g., as shown in FIG. 9).

[0094] In some implementations, a spring (for example, a torsion spring) may be connected to the valve 510 and the strut 515. The spring facilitates angular movement of the valve 510 about a joint between the valve 510 and the strut 515 such that minimum hindrance is caused to incoming water flow.

[0095] The sprinkler unit described can be implemented suitably in any fire suppression system, including, but not limited to, dry, wet, or pre-action suppression systems. Further, the sprinkler unit of the present disclosure can be implemented in many applications, including, but not limited to, residential applications, Data Center applications, etc.

[0096] It is to be noted that the term ‘sprinkler’ or ‘sprinkler head’ includes waterbased sprinklers as well as water mist nozzles. For example, the sprinkler unit may include a water mist nozzle when the sprinkler unit is implemented in water mist fire suppression systems.Configuration of Exemplary Implementations

[0097] The construction and arrangement of the systems and methods as shown in the various exemplary implementations are illustrative only. Although only a few implementations have been described in detail in this disclosure, many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.). For example, the position of elements can be reversed or otherwise varied, and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions can be altered or varied. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure. The order or sequence of any process or method steps can be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative implementations. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions can be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the exemplary implementations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0098] Although the figures show a specific order of method steps, the order of the steps may differ from what is depicted. Also, two or more steps can be performed concurrently or with partial concurrence. Such variation will depend on the software and hardware systems chosen and on designer choice. All such variations are within the scope of the disclosure. Likewise, software implementations could be accomplished with standard programming techniques with rule-based logic and other logic to accomplish the various connection steps, processing steps, comparison steps, and decision steps.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A fire suppression system comprising: a sprinkler including: a thermal device configured to react to a fire incident, a cartridge, and a displacement mechanism configured to engage the cartridge with a lance to release a gas from the cartridge upon the thermal device reacting to the fire incident; and a valve module in fluid communication with the sprinkler and coupled to a fluid source, wherein the valve module is configured to allow fluid flow to the sprinkler upon receiving the gas from the sprinkler via a tube that extends between the sprinkler and the valve module.

2. The fire suppression system of claim 1, wherein the displacement mechanism includes: a standoff supported by the thermal device; a plunger abutting the cartridge; and a spring positioned between the standoff and the plunger.

3. The fire suppression system of claim 2, wherein the spring extends from a compressed state upon the thermal device reacting to a fire incident, thereby pushing the cartridge into the lance via the plunger.

4. The fire suppression system of claim 2, wherein the sprinkler further comprises an interposing spacer positioned between the thermal device and the standoff, and wherein the interposing spacer is displaced to allow fluid to flow out of the sprinkler.

5. The fire suppression system of claim 1, further comprising a conduit coupled to the sprinkler at a first end and the valve module at a second end, wherein the conduit is configured to transport fluid from the fluid source to the sprinkler.

6. The fire suppression system of claim 5, wherein the tube is positioned within the conduit.

7. The fire suppression system of claim 1, wherein the valve module includes a valve and a valve actuating mechanism for operating the valve, and the valve actuating mechanism is configured to actuate the valve upon receiving the gas from the sprinkler to allow fluid to pass through the valve module.

8. The fire suppression system of claim 1, wherein the valve module includes: a valve; a piston; a strut positioned between the piston and the valve; and one or more locking members positioned between the piston and the strut, such that the one or more locking members prevent advance of the piston and the strut prior to the valve module receiving the gas via the tube.

9. The fire suppression system of claim 8, wherein the valve module further includes: a housing; and a main spring positioned between a portion of the strut and a seat defined by an interior surface of the housing, wherein the one or more locking members hold the main spring in a compressed position via the strut.

10. The fire suppression system of claim 9, wherein the piston includes recess configured to receive the one or more locking members and wherein the piston is configured to be displaced to receive the one or more locking members upon receiving the gas from the sprinkler, thereby allowing displacement of the strut under influence of the main spring to actuate the valve.

11. A fire suppression system comprising: a sprinkler comprising: a thermal device configured to react to a fire incident; an outer sleeve; an inner sleeve positioned at least partially within the outer sleeve; a cartridge positioned within the inner sleeve;a displacement mechanism configured to engage the cartridge with a lance to release a gas from the cartridge upon the thermal device reacting to the fire incident; and a valve module in fluid communication with the sprinkler and coupled to a fluid source, wherein the valve module is configured to allow fluid flow to the sprinkler upon receiving the gas from the sprinkler via a tube that extends between the sprinkler and the valve module.

12. The fire suppression system of claim 11, wherein the inner sleeve includes a first slot and the outer sleeve includes a second slot, and wherein a locking member engages with the first slot, the second slot, and the cartridge.

13. The fire suppression system of claim 12, wherein the locking member is engaged in the first slot and the second slot such that the locking member prevents displacement of the cartridge towards the lance while the sprinkler is in an unactuated state.

14. The fire suppression system of claim 12, further comprising a retainer cap having a recessed portion, the retainer cap being positioned around the outer sleeve such that the recessed portion aligns with the second slot to engage with the locking member while the sprinkler is in an actuated state.

15. The fire suppression system of claim 11, wherein the sprinkler includes an enclosure surrounding the outer sleeve, and a fluid passage is defined between the enclosure and the outer sleeve.

16. The fire suppression system of claim 15, wherein the outer sleeve defines one or more apertures that allow fluid flow from the fluid passage to pass through the outer sleeve.

17. The fire suppression system of claim 11, further comprising: a receiver coupled to an end of the inner sleeve, wherein the receiver defines a passage configured to outlet gas released by the cartridge; and a tube connector coupled with the receiver and configured to receive the tube.

18. The fire suppression system of claim 11, wherein the valve module includes a valve and a valve actuating mechanism for operating the valve, and the valve actuating mechanism is configured to actuate the valve upon receiving the gas from the sprinkler to allow fluid to pass through the valve module.

19. A method comprising: detecting a fire incident; releasing a gas from a cartridge in a sprinkler; receiving, by a valve module, the gas released from the cartridge; actuating a valve within the valve module, to cause fire suppressant flow from a pipe to the sprinkler; and releasing fire suppressant from the sprinkler.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising: activating a displacement mechanism upon detecting the fire incident; and moving, by the displacement mechanism, the cartridge into a lance to release the gas from the cartridge.

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