A protection and installation device for fire protection sprinklers

Abstract

A protective device including two halves disposed over a fire protection sprinkler to protect the thermal trigger. Each half includes a deflector cover extending over the entire length of the apex between a base of the apex and an outlet of the fire protection sprinkler. The protective device further includes a releasing segment, a first pair of locking elements disposed about the lateral section of the pair of spaced-apart frame arms, and a second pair of locking elements disposed about the transverse section of the pair of spaced-apart frame arms and offset from the first pair of locking elements. The protective device further includes at least one pair of ribs positioned between the first and second pairs of locking elements to enable a insertion of the fire protection sprinkler using the protective device when the apex is at least partially covered by the deflector.

Description

PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOOA PROTECTION AND INSTALLATION DEVICE FOR FIRE PROTECTION SPRINKLERSPRIORITY DATA AND INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 716,896, filed November 6, 2024, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 716,913, filed November 6, 2024, each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL ART

[0002] The present invention relates generally to protection devices and installation tools for fire protection sprinklers and systems. In particular, the present invention relates to a protective cover and installation device for fire protection sprinklers that allows for manual installation of the fire protection sprinkler.BACKGROUND

[0003] Fire protection sprinklers include a sprinkler frame body with an inlet connected to a pressurized supply of firefighting fluid, such as water, and some type of fluid deflector spaced from an outlet of the frame body to distribute firefighting fluid discharged from the outlet in a defined spray distribution pattern over an area to be protected. Fire protection sprinklers are used, for example, in the protection of storage commodities and occupancies. Storage fire protection systems include a network of pipes connected to a firefighting fluid supply and installed above the storage commodity beneath the ceiling of the occupancy. The piping network includes one or more branch lines coupled to a cross-main which is connected to a fluid supply by a vertical piping riser to supply the branch lines with the firefighting fluid. Fire protection sprinklers are connected to the branch lines in an appropriate orientation and at an appropriate sprinkler-to-sprinkler spacing.

[0004] To connect the fire protection sprinklers to the branch lines, the branch lines are configured as linear pipe headers with branch connectors extending from the header for receipt and threaded connection of a fire protection sprinkler. In some fire protection sprinklers, the release of fluid discharge from the body is controlled. For example, automatic fire protection sprinklers include a fusible or thermally responsive trigger assembly which secures a seal over an internal central orifice formed proximate the outlet of the frame body. When the temperature surrounding the automatic sprinkler is elevated -1 -184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO to a pre-selected value indicative of a fire, the trigger assembly operates, fractures, or collapses to release the seal assembly and fluid flow is initiated through the sprinkler body and out the outlet to impact the fluid deflector. In other types of controlled sprinklers, the trigger and / or seal is operated or otherwise ejected by a mechanical, electrical or computer-controlled actuator.

[0005] The response and actuation of the fire protection sprinkler is based upon the thermally responsive trigger or actuator, and the spray pattern or distribution of the firefighting fluid is defined by the fluid deflector configuration. Accordingly, proper sprinkler performance is a function of these operative components. In order to maintain the expected performance of the sprinkler, there is a need to protect the automatic fire protection sprinkler from unintended impact and / or damage. In order to maintain protection of the sprinkler during the installation process, it is preferred to keep a protective device on the sprinkler during transport, storage, and / or installation.

[0006] U.S. Patent No. 12,157,022 (the “’022 patent”) discloses a protective cover that allows an installer to manually torque the fire protection device into the gasketed branch connector to form a fluid-tight sealed connection. The protective cover of the '022 patent includes opposing protective members that at least partially surround the fire protection sprinkler. As the outer surface of the protective cover is grasped and manually twisted, the protective members grip and apply a torque to the fire protection sprinkler to thread the fire protection sprinkler into the branch connector. During installation of the protective cover of the '022 patent, the protective cover relies on the apex of the fire protection sprinkler for stability, to prevent lateral movement of each protective member relative to the other, which reduces a likelihood of damaging one of the operative components of the fire protection sprinkler. The apex is the connection point of the deflector and the frame of the fire protection sprinkler and is located at a meeting point of a pair of spaced-apart frame arms. To rely on the apex, the protective cover of the ‘022 patent has a peripheral shielding surface that extends from the base of the apex in a direction from the outlet to surround and protect the fluid deflector without obstructing the apex. While the protective cover of the ’022 patent can protect and be used for installation of fire protection sprinklers with an exposed apex, the protective cover of the '022 patent is unable to provide suitable stability about the fire protection sprinklers that have an unexposed apex.-2-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO

[0007] Accordingly, there is a need for a protective device that can protect operative components of a fire protection sprinkler during storage, transport handling, and / or installation; transfer a torque or rotational force to form a fluid-tight sealed connection between a fire protection sprinkler and a branch connector; be easily removable in order to place the fire protection sprinkler into service; and be used on both fire protection sprinklers with an exposed or unexposed apex.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The disclosed device relates to a protective device for fire protection sprinklers. The protective device is configured to protect the fire protection sprinkler from damage during transport, storage, installation, and / or removal. In preferred embodiments, the fire protection sprinkler includes a frame body with an external thread and a pair of spaced-apart frame arms. Each frame arm in the pair of spaced-apart frame arms has a lateral section near the inlet end and a transverse section extending from the lateral section. The transverse section of each frame arm converges to an apex at a center sprinkler axis. The fire protection sprinkler includes a thermal trigger disposed along the sprinkler axis configured to release firefighting fluid due to a thermal event. The protective device protects the thermal trigger by at least partially surrounding the thermal trigger.

[0009] The protective device includes two preferably identical halves. As used herein, the protective device can refer to either a single half and / or both halves. When installed on the fire protection sprinkler, the protective device includes a first end positioned between the external threads and the apex. Each half of the protective device includes a first end and a second end disposed from the first end; the second end being positioned at the top of the deflector cover portion of the protective device. The deflector cover includes an outer shielding surface and an outer radial wall that defines the outer diameter of the protective device. Preferably, the outer shielding surface and the radial wall extends along the entire length of the apex. In some embodiments, the deflector cover includes a protrusion or fin extending from the outer shielding surface. The protrusion can extend perpendicular to the outer shielding surface and can have any geometry, and, preferably has a triangular geometry. The protrusion can be positioned at any point on the outer surface of the outer shielding surface and is preferably-3-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO perpendicular to a plane extending between the frame arms of the fire protection sprinkler.

[0010] Preferably, the protective device includes a concave portion and a pair of straight portions extending from the deflector cover to the first end. The concave segment creates a void between the two halves of the protective device for the thermal trigger of the fire protection sprinkler. The pair of straight segments extend from either side of the concave segment. One rib from at least one pair of ribs extends from the concave portion to one of the straight segments. The pair of straight segments are configured to receive a torque from a user during the installation and / or removal of the fire protection sprinkler.

[0011] Alternatively, the protective device includes a pair of straight segments extending from the first end to the deflector cover. The protective device further includes a protective chamber between the pair of straight segments. The protective chamber extends from the first end toward the second end. The protective chamber includes a primary planar surface disposed away from the pair of straight segments and a pair of secondary planar surfaces contiguous to and disposed about either side of the primary planar surface. Each rib in a pair of ribs extends perpendicular to the primary planar surface and secondary planar surfaces from one of the secondary planar surfaces to one of the straight segments. A concave portion is disposed between the protective chamber and the deflector cover and between each straight segment. A pair of convex transition segments extend from the protective chamber to the deflector cover and are disposed between the concave portion and each straight segment.

[0012] Preferably, the protective device includes a releasing segment extending from one of the straight segments. The releasing segment disconnects the two halves of the protective device by separating a first and second pair of locking elements. The first pair of locking elements are disposed about lateral sections of the frame arms. The second pair of locking elements are disposed about the transverse section of the frame arms. The second pair of locking elements can be offset from the first pair of locking elements. Preferably, the at least one pair of ribs is positioned between the first pair of locking elements and the second pair of locking elements on the exterior of each half of the protective device. Alternatively, the protective device includes a first pair of ribs between the first end and the first pair of locking elements and a second pair of ribs between the first pair of locking elements and the second pair of locking elements. The-4-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO pair of ribs adds rigidity to the protective device thereby preventing lateral movement between each half of the protective device, which allows for installation of the fire protection sprinkler without needing to rely on the apex for stability during the application of the manual torque.

[0013] The description and associated drawings are illustrative examples and are not to be construed as limiting. This disclosure provides certain details for a thorough understanding and enabling description of these examples. One skilled in the relevant technology will understand, however, that the invention can be practiced without many of these details. Likewise, one skilled in the relevant technology will understand that the invention can include well-known structures or features that are not shown or described in detail, to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the descriptions of examples.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and constitute part of this specification, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention, and together, with the general description given above and the detailed description given below, serve to explain the features of the invention. It should be understood that the preferred embodiments are some examples of the invention as provided by the appended claims.

[0015] FIG. 1 A is a partial cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a protected fire protection sprinkler assembly before being threaded into an associated branch connector.

[0016] FIG. 1 B is a partial cross-sectional phantom view of the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly coupled to the branch connector of FIG. 1 A.

[0017] FIG. 2A is an exploded perspective view of the embodiment of the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of FIG. 1 A.

[0018] FIG. 2B is a bottom view of the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of FIG. 1A.

[0019] FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the protective device used in the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly in FIG. 1 A.

[0020] FIG. 3B is an exploded perspective view of the bottom of the protective device in FIG. 3A.-5-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO

[0021] FIG. 4A is an exploded perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of FIG. 1 A.

[0022] FIG. 4B is a bottom view of the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of FIG. 4A.

[0023] FIG. 40 is a perspective view of an alternate protective device of Fig. 4A

[0024] FIG. 5 is an illustration of the protected sprinkler assembly in FIG. 1 A being installed by hand.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] FIG. 1 A is a partial cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a protected fire protection sprinkler assembly before being threaded into an associated branch connector 122. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly includes a protective device 100 and a fire protection sprinkler 1 10. The fire protection sprinkler 1 10 can be a sprinkler, mist device, nozzle, and / or any structure or device configured to distribute a firefighting fluid. The protective device 100 protects the fire protection sprinkler 1 10 from unintentional impact and / or damage during storage, transport, installation, and / or when awaiting to be placed into service. Moreover, the protective device 100 also serves as a tool for installing the fire protection sprinkler 1 10 into the branch connector 122 of a fire protection sprinkler system. Specifically, the protective device 100 facilitates installation of the fire protection sprinkler 1 10 by manual torquing of the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly into the branch connector 122 as illustrated in FIG. 5. Additionally, the protective device 100 can be removed and / or released from the fire protection sprinkler 110, preferably by hand, to place the fire protection sprinkler 1 10 into service.

[0026] Generally, the protective device 100 is a protection tool configured to install and connect the fire protection sprinkler 1 10 to the branch connector 122. The protective device 100 also includes a torque assist portion or feature that facilitates the transfer of a torque, and more preferably a manual torque, to the fire protection sprinkler 110 by minimizing and / or eliminating rotational slip and / or relative rotation between the fire protection sprinkler 110 and the protective device 100. The protective device 100 preferably includes an external surface that a user can use to apply a gripping and / or rotational force to the fire protection sprinkler 1 10. The protective device 100 can remain in place to protect the installed fire protection sprinkler 1 10 until the fire protection -6-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO sprinkler 110 and the fire protection system are ready to be placed into service. To place the fire protection sprinkler 110 into service, the protective device 100 is removed to expose the operational components of the fire protection sprinkler 1 10.

[0027] The protective device 100 can have two identical halves configured to couple together to protect the fire protection sprinkler 110. The protective device 100 includes a deflector cover 102, a concave segment 108, ribs 106, and multiple pairs of locking elements 104a, 104b. The deflector cover 102 is configured to encompass and protect the deflector 144 (shown in FIG. 1 B) of the fire protection sprinkler 1 10. The concave segment is configured to create a void around the frame body 132 of the fire protection sprinkler 110 to protect the fire protection sprinkler 1 10 from damage and / or impact. The ribs 106 are configured to provide rigidity to the protective device 100 so that a torque can be applied to the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly to thread an external thread 112 of the fire protection sprinkler 1 10 into a branch connector 122. The ribs 106 combined with the overall geometry of the protective device 100 reduces lateral movement between each half of the protective device. Minimizing the lateral movement reduces the risk of damage to the thermal trigger 134 of the fire protection sprinkler 1 10 caused by contact of the protective device 100 with the fire protection sprinkler 110. The multiple pairs of locking elements 104a, 104b are configured to connect each half of the protective device 100 together.

[0028] The fire protection sprinkler 110 includes an external thread 1 12 configured for threading into the internally threaded surface 1 14 of the branch connector 122. The external thread 1 12 can be a straight or tapered thread of a nominal size. The branch connector includes the internally threaded surface 1 14, an outlet end 124, a gasket chamber 1 18, an annular seal member 116, and an internal surface 120. The branch connector is coupled, preferably in a welded connection, to a pipe header 128 that includes an internal passageway 126. The pipe header 128 supplies firefighting fluid through the branch connector to the fire protection sprinkler 110. The gasket chamber 1 18 is positioned between the internally threaded surface 1 14 and the internal surface 120 and is configured to house the annular seal member 1 16. The gasket chamber 1 18 provides an expansion volume for the annular seal member 1 16 when the annular seal member 1 16 is compressed by the external thread 1 12 during the installation of the fire protection sprinkler 1 10. The annular seal member 1 16 is preferably configured as the-7-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO seal shown in U.S. Patent No. 10,744,527, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety, to provide a preferred leak-proof connection between a fire protection sprinkler 1 10 or other fire protection device and the branch connector 122 under a manual torque (e.g., torque by hand).

[0029] FIG. 1 B is a partial cross-sectional phantom view of the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly coupled to the branch connector of FIG. 1 A. The fire protection sprinkler 110 generally includes a frame body 132 with a pair of spaced apart frame arms 136a, 136b extending from and preferably diametrically disposed about the frame body 132. The frame arms 136a, 136b are preferably aligned towards one another about a shared plane P. Each frame arm 136a, 136b includes a lateral section 140a, 140b and a transverse section 138a, 138b. The transverse section 138a, 138b extends from the respective lateral section 140a, 140b and converges to the apex 146. A deflector 144 is coupled to the frame arms 136a, 136b at the apex 146 and is axially spaced from the frame body 132. The deflector 144 at least partially surrounds and covers the apex 146. For example, the deflector can extend about the apex. Additionally, and / or alternatively, the deflector 144 can extend along the apex 146 in a direction parallel to the central sprinkler axis X — X. Therefore, the deflector 144 can inhibit contact to apex 146 by the protective device 100.

[0030] The deflector 144 and the fire protection sprinkler 1 10 can be configured for installation as an upright sprinkler, as shown, a pendent sprinkler, or a horizontal sprinkler. The frame body 132 has a fluid passageway 130 extending between the fluid inlet 152 and the fluid outlet 154 along a central sprinkler axis X-X. The fire protection sprinkler 1 10 is preferably an automatic fire protection sprinkler with a thermal trigger 134 coaxially disposed between the frame body 132 and the deflector 144. The thermal trigger 134 can be a frangible glass bulb with a supporting structure. Alternatively, the thermal trigger can be embodied as a solder link with strut and lever assembly, as shown in FIGs. 4A-4B. As such, the frangible glass bulb or solder link provides a thermal trigger 134 for the fire protection sprinkler 1 10 that operates passively in response to temperature. The fire protection sprinkler 1 10 includes an internal seal assembly 150 supported by thermal trigger 134 to maintain a fluid-tight seal. The thermal trigger 134 is supported by the apex 146. When the fire protection sprinkler 1 10 is installed and placed in service, the thermal trigger 134 is configured to thermally actuate in response to a fire-8-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO or sufficient level of heat. Upon thermal actuation, seal assembly 150 is released and ejected from fluid outlet 154, preferably under fluid pressure, and delivered to fluid inlet 152 from pipe header 128 and through branch connector 122. The firefighting fluid is discharged from the fluid outlet 154 for distribution by the deflector 144 to address the fire event.

[0031] The protective device 100 is disposed over the frame arms 136a, 136b of the fire protection sprinkler 1 10. The first pair of locking elements 104a are located on the outside of the transverse section 138a, 138b. The second pair of locking elements 104b are located on the outside of the lateral section 140a, 140b. The first and second pair of locking elements 104a, 104b can be offset with the first pair of locking elements 104a being closer to the central sprinkler axis X — X when compared to the second pair of locking elements 104b. The spacing between the first and second pair of locking elements 104a, 104b can be consistent between each pair of locking elements 104a, 104b or have varied spacing to fit the geometry of the pair of frame arms 136a, 136b. Locating each pair of locking elements 104a, 104b adjacent an exterior side of the frame arms 136a, 136b (e.g., side furthest from the central sprinkler axis X — X) assists in transferring the torque from the protective device 100 to the fire protection sprinkler 1 10. Alternatively, the locking elements 104a, 104b can be any suitable connection method, such as, a seam connection and / or a hinge and clasp.

[0032] The protective device 100 includes a releasing segment 148 configured to receive a torque and / or force to separate each half of the protective device 100 during removal of the protective device 100 from the fire protection sprinkler 1 10. Preferably, none of the torque applied to the protective device 100 during installation and / or removal of the fire protection sprinkler is transferred through the apex 146 because the deflector cover 102 extends the entire length of the apex 146. Specifically, the radial wall 210 of the deflector cover 102 is disposed entirely between the base of the apex 146 and the fluid outlet 154. The base of the apex is the connection point with the fluid deflector 144 and is the portion of the fluid deflector 144 positioned furthest from the fluid outlet 154. Therefore, the protective device 100 can transfer a manual torque to the fire protection sprinkler 1 10 whether the apex 146 is exposed, partially exposed, and / or unexposed. When installed with the protective device 100, the fire protection sprinkler 1 10 compresses the annular seal member 116 against the gasket chamber 1 18, increasing-9-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO the internal diameter of the annular seal member. This places the fire protection sprinkler 110 in fluid communication with the branch connector 122 and, therefore, the pipe header 128.

[0033] FIG. 2A is an exploded isometric view of the embodiment of the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of FIG. 1 A. The fire protection sprinkler 110 includes a frame body 132 having an external thread 112 formed about a central sprinkler axis X — X, a pair of spaced apart frame arms 136a, 136b having a lateral section 140a, 140b and a transverse section 138a, 138b. The pair of spaced-apart frame arms 136a, 136b are disposed in a plane P and extend axially from the frame body 132. The transverse sections 138a, 138b converge toward one another to form the apex 146 along the central sprinkler axis X-X. The apex 146 is spaced axially from the fluid outlet 154 (see FIG. 1 B). The thermal trigger 134 is disposed along the central sprinkler axis X — X between the fluid outlet 154 and the apex 146. The deflector 144 is affixed to the apex 146 and has an outer perimeter surrounding the apex 146.

[0034] The protective device 100 can include two halves opposed to one another. The two halves of the protective device 100 are preferably identical to one another and formed from a polymer or plastic material such as polyethylene and formed by molding such as, for example, injection molding. Alternatively, or additionally, the two halves of the protective device 100 can be formed such that the protective device 100 is symmetrical and / or asymmetrical about a plane P. The protective device includes a first end 218 located between the external threads 1 12 and the apex 146 of the fire protection sprinkler 110 when the protective device 100 is installed on the fire protection sprinkler 1 10. The protective device 100 includes a second end 220 located at the inner diameter of the outer shielding surface 208 of the deflector cover 102. The outer shielding surface 208 extends at an angle from the central sprinkler axis X — X in a direction from the second end 220 toward the first end 218. For example, the angle of the outer shielding surface 208 relative to the central sprinkler axis X — X and inner shielding surface 212 is preferably between zero and ninety degrees and more preferably between forty-five and ninety degrees. Therefore, the outer diameter of the second end 220 is less than the maximum outer diameter of the deflector cover 102. The deflector cover 102 also includes a radial wall 210 that is contiguous to the outer edge (e.g., maximum width) of the outer shielding surface 208. The radial wall 210 extends from the outer shielding-10-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO surface 208 toward the first end 218 to define the outer diameter or width of the protective device 100. The radial wall 210 preferably extends parallel to the central sprinkler axis X — X, and can alternatively be at any angle relative to the central sprinkler axis X — X. The deflector cover 102 preferably has a circular and / or ovular geometry, and can alternatively have a square, rectangular, polygonal, triangular, and / or any other suitable geometry. The radial wall preferably has a cylindrical geometry and can alternatively have any geometry to correspond with the deflector cover 102.

[0035] The protective device 100 includes a concave segment 108, a first straight segment 204, and a second straight segment 206. The concave segment 108 creates a void between the two halves of the protective device 100 for the fire protection sprinkler 110. The void creates a space for the thermal trigger 134 and / or other sprinkler components. The concave segment 108 is positioned between the first straight segment 204 and the second straight segment 206. The concave segment 108 can be contiguous to the first straight segment 204 and the second straight segment 206 or preferably, a convex transition segment 202a, 202b (shown in FIG. 2B) is disposed between the concave segment 108 and each of the first straight segment 204 and the second straight segment 206. The concave segment 108 is positioned on a constant arc about the central sprinkler axis X — X. Alternatively, the concave segment 108 can have a varying arc that positions different portions of the concave segment 108 at different distances from the central sprinkler axis X — X. The convex transition segments 202a, 202b can be positioned on two different arcs having different radii or preferably having the same radius. The first straight segment 204 and the second straight segment 206 extend from the deflector cover 102 to the first end 218. The first straight segment 204 and the second straight segment 206 are preferably planar surfaces that receive a torque from a user during the installation and / or removal of the fire protection sprinkler 110. The first straight segment 204 has an outer edge (e.g., edge furthest from the central sprinkler axis) with an “L” shaped geometry. The outer edge includes a first portion extending from the deflector cover 102 toward the first end 218 with the first portion preferably being parallel to the central sprinkler axis X — X. The outer edge further includes a second portion extending at an angle from the first portion toward the first end, preferably at an angle between thirty and ninety degrees, and more preferably extending perpendicular to the first portion. The outer edge further includes a third portion extending from the second portion to the first end 218. Preferably, the third portion is parallel to the first portion. The -1 1 -184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO outer edge of the second straight segment can be linear and preferably extends from the first end 218 to the releasing segment 148 and / or deflector cover 102 and extends parallel to the central sprinkler axis X — X.

[0036] The protective device includes a releasing segment 148 extending from the second straight segment 206 to the deflector cover 102. The releasing segment 148 is disposed within a shared plane of the second straight segment 206. The releasing segment 148 can preferably extend at an angle from the second straight segment 206 to have a triangular shape defined by an extension from the second straight segment 206. Alternatively, the releasing segment can extend from the second straight segment 206 at a right angle to define a rectangular shape, and / or at a curve to define a rounded shape. The releasing segment 148 has a maximum width from the central sprinkler axis X — X less than the maximum diameter of the radial wall 210. The releasing segment 148 is continuous to the deflector cover 102. The releasing segment 148 helps enable the disconnection of the two halves of the protective device 100 by separating the first and second pair of locking elements 104a, 104b when a force is applied to the releasing segment 148. The first pair of locking elements 104a are disposed about the lateral section 140a, 140b of the pair of spaced-apart frame arms 136a, 136b. The first pair of locking elements 104a can, while installed on the fire protection sprinkler 1 10, reduce an amount the protective device 100 moves toward the second end 220. The second pair of locking elements 104b are disposed about the transverse section 138a, 138b of the pair of spaced apart frame arms 136a, 136b. The second pair of locking elements 104b are preferrable offset from the first pair of locking elements 104a, and can alternatively be positioned along an axis parallel to the central sprinkler axis X — X. The second pair of locking elements 104b can, while installed on the fire protection sprinkler 1 10, reduce an amount the protective device 100 moves toward the first end 218. The protective device 100 includes at least one pair of ribs 106 positioned between the first pair of locking elements 104a and the second pair of locking elements 104b. Each rib in the pair of ribs 106 extends outwardly from the concave segment 108 to either the first or second straight segment 204, 206. Each rib in the pair of ribs 106 preferably extends from the protective device 100 perpendicular to the central sprinkler axis X— X. Alternatively, each rib extends at an angle between twenty and ninety degrees and preferably between forty- five and ninety degrees. The pair of ribs 106 adds rigidity to the protective device 100 to reduce lateral movement of each half of the protective device relative to the other, which -12-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO helps enable an application of a higher manual torque applied to the fire protection sprinkler 110.

[0037] FIG. 2B is a bottom view of the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of FIG. 1 A. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly includes the fire protection sprinkler 110 and the protective device 100. The protective device 100 includes an inner radius R1 and an outer radius R2. The inner radius R1 is configured to accommodate the thermal trigger 134 and provide a large enough void so the thermal trigger 134 is protected from damage even if there is lateral movement between each half of the protective device 100. The inner radius R1 is less than the outer radius R2. The outer radius R2 is defined by the size of the inner shielding surface 212 of the deflector cover 102, which is a radially extending shielding surface. The outer radius R2 is configured to accommodate the deflector 144 and protect the deflector 144 from damage. The inner shielding surface 212 extends from the radial wall 210 toward the central sprinkler axis X— X.

[0038] The protective device 100 includes a concave segment 108, a first straight segment 204, and a second straight segment 206. The concave segment 108 is preferably disposed at least partially on radius R1 and more preferably entirely on radius R1 . A first convex transition segment 202a is positioned between the concave segment 108 and the second straight segment 206. A second convex transition segment 202b is positioned between the concave segment 108 and the first straight segment 204. The first and second straight segments 204, 206 extend to a distance between the inner radius R1 and the outer radius R2. Therefore, the width (e.g., measurement perpendicular to the central sprinkler axis X— X) of the first and second straight segments 204, 206 is less than and / or equal to the difference in length of the second radius R2 and the first radius R1 . The pair of ribs 106 extend preferably perpendicular to the concave segment 108 and the first and second straight segments 204, 206. The pair of ribs can extend the entire width of the first and second straight segments 204, 206 and / or just a portion of the first and second straight segments 204, 206.

[0039] FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the protective device 100 used in the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of FIG . 1 A. The deflector cover 102 includes the outer shielding surface 208 and the inner shielding surface 212. The outer shielding surface 208 and the inner shielding surface 212 form a gap 302 between the two halves -13-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO of the protective device 100. The size of the gap 302 is preferably determined by a length (e.g., distance along an axis perpendicular to the central sprinkler axis X— X) of the locking elements 104a, 104b. The width of the gap 302 is preferably constant over the entire length and width of the protective device 100 and can alternatively vary based on the geometry of the protective device 100. The size of the deflector 144 can also determine the size of the gap 302. For example, a larger deflector can require a larger gap between each half of the protective device 100. The outer shielding surface 208 can include hole 308. Hole 308 is positioned about the center axis X — X and the size can vary based on the size of the fire protection sprinkler 1 10. For example, larger fire protection sprinkler 1 10 may require larger and / or more robust fastening means for connecting the deflector 144 to frame body 132 causing the fastening means to extend from the frame body 132 to a distance past the second end 220 of the protective device 100. The hole 308 extends from the second end 220 toward the first end 218. The hole 308 can be disposed entirely on a constant arc about the central sprinkler axis X — X. Alternatively, the hole 308 can be partially disposed on the constant arc to form a varying radius about the central sprinkler axis X— X, have a rectangular, polygonal, and / or any other shaped geometry.

[0040] FIG. 3B is an exploded perspective view of the bottom of the protective device in FIG. 3A. Coupling the two halves of the protective device 100 defines an internal void for housing the fire protection sprinkler 110. The size of the void can be determined by the first and second pairs of locking elements 104a, 104b. The first and second pairs of locking elements 104a, 104b include a cylindrical pin 304 that engages a complementary cylindrical receiver 306 in a preferred frictional and / or interference fit such as, for example, a snap-fit connection, to connect the two halves of the protective device 100 together. The cylindrical pin 304 preferably has a cylindrical first portion extending from an interior surface of the first straight segment 204 and a conical second portion with a planar tip extending from the first portion. Additionally, the cylindrical first portion can have a constant diameter, varying diameter, and / or two sections with different diameters. Alternatively, the cylindrical first portion can have a cubic and / or prism geometry that is constant or varies along its length. In some embodiments, the cylindrical pin 304 can have a constant cylindrical geometry along its entire length or has a cubic and / or prism geometry along its entire length.-14-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO

[0041] Each half of the protective device 100 can have two cylindrical pins 304 and two complementary cylindrical receivers 306. The complementary cylindrical receivers 306 have opposite geometry to the cylindrical pins 304. For example, the cylindrical receivers 306 can have a hollow cylindrical geometry to match the cylindrical shape of the cylindrical receivers 306 or can have a hollow cubic or prism geometry when the cylindrical receivers 306 have a non-cylindrical geometry.

[0042] The first and second pairs of locking elements 104a, 104b each have one cylindrical pin 304 and one cylindrical receiver 306. This causes a cylindrical pin 304 to always align with a complementary cylindrical receiver 306. For example, the cylindrical receiver 306 for both the first and second locking elements 104a, 104b can be coupled to the first straight segment 204. The cylindrical pin 304 for both the first and second locking elements 104a and 104b can be coupled to the second straight segment 206 or vice versa. In some embodiments, each cylindrical pin 304 has a different geometry from each other cylindrical pin 304 to ensure that each half of the protective device 100 is properly aligned with each other.

[0043] FIG. 4A is an exploded view of an alternate embodiment of the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of FIG. 1 A. The fire protection sprinkler 1 10b includes a frame body 132b having an external thread 1 12b formed about a central sprinkler axis X— X, a pair of spaced apart frame arms 136c, 136d having a lateral section 140c, 140d and a transverse section 138c, 138d. The pair of spaced-apart frame arms 136c, 136d are disposed in a plane P2 and extend axially from the frame body 132b. The transverse sections 138c, 138d converge toward one another to form the apex along the central sprinkler axis X— X. The apex is spaced axially from the fluid outlet 154b (similar to the fire protection sprinkler 1 10 shown in FIG. 1 B). The thermal trigger 134b is disposed along the central sprinkler axis X-X between the fluid outlet 154b and the apex 146b. The thermal trigger 134b can be a solder link with a strut and / or a glass bulb. The deflector 144b is affixed to the apex and has an outer perimeter surrounding the apex 146b. The deflector 144b at least partially surrounds and covers the apex 146b. For example, the deflector can extend about the apex. Additionally, and / or alternatively, the deflector 144b can extend along the apex 146b in a direction parallel to the central sprinkler axis X — X. Therefore, the deflector 144b can inhibit contact to apex 146b by the protective device 100b.-15-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO

[0044] The protective device 100b can include two identical halves. The two halves of the protective device 100b are preferably identical to one another and formed from a polymer or plastic material such as polyethylene and formed by molding such as, for example, injection molding. Alternatively, or additionally, two halves of the protective device 100b can be formed such that the protective device 100b is symmetrical and / or asymmetrical about plane P2. The protective device includes a first end 218b located between the external threads 1 12b and the apex 146b of the fire protection sprinkler 110b when the protective device 100b is installed on the fire protection sprinkler 110b. The protective device 100b includes a second end 220b opposed from the first end 218b and located at the interior edge of the outer shielding surface 208b of the deflector cover 102b (similar to that of the outer shielding surface 208 of FIG. 1A). Preferably, the deflector cover 102b has the same geometry as the deflector cover 102 of FIG. 1A. The deflector cover 102b includes the outer shielding surface 208b and a radial wall 210b. The outer shielding surface 208b extends at an angle from the central sprinkler axis X — X in a direction from the second end 220b toward the first end 218b. The outer shielding surface 208b is disposed about the central sprinkler axis X— X. The radial wall 210b defines the outer width or diameter of the protective device 100b and is contiguous to the outer edge of the outer shielding surface 208b. The radial wall 210b preferably extends parallel along the central sprinkler axis X — X and can alternatively be at any angle relative to the central sprinkler axis X— X. Preferably, the radial wall 210b is disposed about the central sprinkler axis X — X on a constant arc. Alternatively, the radial wall 210b can be disposed partially on the constant arc to have a varying radius and / or width from the central sprinkler axis X — X. The radial wall 210b extends from the outer shielding surface 208b toward the first end 218b. The deflector cover 102b preferably includes hole 308b. The size of hole 308b can be configured based on a size of the fastening means (e.g., bolt) used to attach a deflector 144b to the fire protection sprinkler 110b. Hole 308b can be circular, rectangular, and / or any other polygonal or geometric shape.

[0045] The protective device 100b includes a protective chamber having a planar surface 402 and a pair of secondary planar surfaces 404a, 404b. The planar surface 402 extends from the first end 218b toward the second end 220b. The planar surface 402 is disposed away from the plane P2. The planar surface 402 is preferably parallel to the plane P2 and can alternatively be skewed to form an angle relative to the plane P2. The pair of secondary planar surfaces 404a, 404b are contiguous to the planar surface 402 -16-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO and extend at an angle (e.g., not parallel) from the planar surface 402 to a pair of straight segments 204b, 206b. The straight segments 204b, 206b extend from the first end 218b to the deflector cover 102b. The straight segments 204b, 206b are disposed on either side of the protective chamber (e.g., planar surface 402 and pair of secondary planar surfaces 404a, 404b). The exterior edge (e.g., edge furthest from the central sprinkler axis X — X when attached to the fire protection sprinkler 1 10b) of the first straight segment 204 can be linear and extend parallel to the central sprinkler axis X — X from the first end 218b to the deflector cover 102b. Alternatively, the exterior edge of the first straight segment 204b can be non-linear and / or rounded. The exterior edge of the second straight segment 206b can form an “L” shape with a first portion extending from the deflector cover 102b positioned a first distance from the central sprinkler axis X — X. The exterior edge can include a second portion perpendicular to the first portion and extending from an end of the first portion opposite the deflector cover 102b. The exterior edge can include a third portion parallel to the first portion, extending from the end of the second portion opposite the first portion to the first end 218b, and being positioned a second distance from the central sprinkler axis X— X that is greater than the first distance. Alternatively, the exterior edge of the second straight segment 206b can be linear and / or have the same geometry as the first straight segment 204b. The interior edge (e.g., edge closest to the central sprinkler axis) of both straight segments 204b, 206b can be varying and non-linear and preferably, follows a perimeter of the protective chamber and convex segment 108b.

[0046] The first straight segment 204b and the second straight segment 206b are surfaces that can receive a torque from a user during the installation or removal of the fire protection sprinkler 1 10b. The first secondary planar surface 404a can extend to the first straight segment 204b. The second secondary planar surface 404b can extend to the second straight segment 206b. The planar surface 402 and the pair of secondary planar surfaces 404a, 404b create a void for the thermal trigger 134b (e.g., solder link and strut) so that the thermal trigger 134b is not damaged during transport, storage, and / or installation. In some embodiments, a transition surface is located between each secondary planar surface 404a, 404b and the pair of straight segments 204a, 206b.

[0047] The protective device 100b includes a concave segment 108b disposed between the first straight segment 204b and a second straight segment 206b and-17-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO between the protective chamber and deflector cover 102b. Preferably, the concave segment 108b extends from a perpendicular planar surface 406. The perpendicular planar surface 406 extends perpendicular to the central sprinkler axis X — X from the pair of straight segments 204b, 206b to the end of the planar surface 402 opposite the first end 218b. The perpendicular planar surface 406 is contiguous with the planar surface 402 and each of the secondary planar surfaces 404a, 404b. Alternatively, the concave segment 108b can extend directly from the planar surface 402 and the pair of secondary planar surfaces 404a, 404b.

[0048] The concave segment 108b is positioned on a constant arc about the central sprinkler axis X — X. Alternatively, the concave segment 108b can have a varying arc with different portions of the concave segment 108b being disposed at different distances from the central sprinkler axis X — X. A convex transition segment can be disposed between the concave segment 108b and each of the straight segments 204b, 206b. The convex transition segments can be positioned on two separate arcs having different radii or preferably having the same radius. The concave segment 108b creates a void between the two halves of the protective device 100b for the fire protection sprinkler 110b. The void creates a space for a section of the thermal trigger 134.

[0049] The first pair of locking elements 104c (not shown) are disposed about the lateral section 140c, 140d of the pair of spaced-apart frame arms 136c, 136d. The first pair of locking elements 104c can reduce an amount the protective device 100b laterally moves in a direction toward the second end 220b. The second pair of locking elements 104d are disposed about the transverse section 138c, 138d of the pair of spaced apart frame arms 136c, 136d. Preferably, the second pair of locking elements 104d are offset from the first pair of locking elements 104c. Alternatively each pair of locking elements 104c, 104d can be positioned along an axis parallel to the central sprinkler axis X — X. The second pair of locking elements 104d can reduce an amount the protective device 100b laterally moves in a direction toward the first end 218b. The protective device 100b includes at least two pairs of ribs 106b. A first pair of ribs 410a, 410b can be positioned between the first pair of locking elements 104c and the second pair of locking elements 104d. A second pair of ribs 410c, 41 Od are positioned between the first end 218b and the second pair of locking elements 104d. Each pair of ribs 106b extends from a secondary planar surface 404a, 404b to a straight segment 204b, 206b. Preferably, a first rib 410a-18-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO and a third rib 410c extend from the first secondary planar surface 404a to the first straight segment 204b and a second rib 410b and a fourth rib 41 Od extend from the second secondary planar surface 404b to the second straight segment 206b. Each rib 410a, 410b, 410c, 41 Od in the pair of ribs 106b preferably extends from the protective device 100b perpendicular to the central sprinkler axis X — X. The two pairs of ribs 106 add rigidity to the protective device 100b to reduce lateral movement of each half of the protective device relative to the other, which enables the application of a manual torque to the fire protection sprinkler 1 10b high enough to compress an annular seal member and provide a fluid-tight seal.

[0050] FIG. 4B is a bottom view of the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of FIG. 4A. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly includes the fire protection sprinkler 1 10b and the protective device 100b. The protective device 100b includes an inner radius R3 and an outer radius R4. The inner radius R3 is sized to accommodate the thermal trigger 134b and provides a void to protect the thermal trigger 134b from damage and contact of the protective device 100b during transit, storage, and / or installation of the fire protection sprinkler 110b. The inner radius R3 is less than the outer radius R4. The outer radius R4 is defined by the length of the perimeter and / or diameter of the radially extending shielding surface 212b of the deflector cover 102b. The outer radius R4 is sized to accommodate the deflector 144b and protect the deflector 144b from damage.

[0051] The inner radius R3 is disposed about a point positioned away from the central sprinkler axis X — X and between the first secondary surface 404a and the second secondary surface 404b. The inner radius R3 is less than the distance from the planar surface 402 to the central sprinkler axis X — X. Therefore, the radius R3 is positioned entirely within the protective chamber. A convex transition segment 202c, 202d connects each secondary planar surface 404a, 404b to each straight segment 204b, 206b. For example, a first convex transition segment 202c connects the first secondary planar surface 404a to the first straight segment 204b and a second convex transition segment 202d connects the second secondary planar surface 404b to the second straight segment 206b. The first and second straight segments 204b, 206b extend to a distance less than the outer radius R4. Additionally, the width (e.g., measurement perpendicular to the central sprinkler axis X— X) of the first and second straight segments 204b, 206b is less-19-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO than the difference in length of the outer radius R4 and the inner radius R3. The two pairs of ribs 410a, 41 Ob, 410c, 41 Od (106b) extend from the first and second straight segments 204b, 206b and perpendicular to the central sprinkler axis X-X. The pair of ribs 106b can extend the entire width of the first and second straight segments 204b, 206b and / or just a portion of the width of the first and second straight segments 204b, 206b.

[0052] FIG. 4C is a perspective view of an alternate protective device of FIG. 4A. The deflector cover 102b includes an outer shielding surface 208b, an inner shielding surface 212b, a radial wall 210b, and a protrusion 408. Preferably, the outer shielding surface 208b faces the inner shielding surface 212b. The radial wall 210 can at least partially surround the deflector 144b. The outer shielding surface 208b can be angled away from the inner shielding surface 212b toward the second end 220b. The radial wall 210b defines the outer width of the protective device 100b. Alternatively, the protective chamber 40 defines the outer width of the protective device 100b. The protrusion 408 extends from the outer shielding surface 208b. The protrusion 408 extends perpendicular to the outer shielding surface 208b and the plane P2, shown in FIG. 4A. Alternatively, the protrusion 408 can extend at any angle from the outer shielding surface, and preferably extends at an angle between forty-five and ninety degrees relative to the outer shielding surface. Preferably, the protrusion 408 is centered on the outer shielding surface and can alternatively be disposed at any location on the outer shielding surface. In some embodiments, each half of the protective device includes multiple protrusions 408 disposed, for example at regular intervals about the central sprinkler axis X— X. Preferably, the protrusion extends at least 50 percent of the width of the outer shielding surface (e.g., distance from the central sprinkler axis X — X to the radial wall 210b). Alternatively, the protrusion 408 can extend the full width of the outer shielding surface 208. The protrusion 408 can have a triangular shape, rectangular shape, and / or any trapezoidal shape. The protrusion 408 can inhibit a user from gripping the deflector cover 102b which reduces the likelihood of lateral movement between each half of the protective device 100b.

[0053] FIG. 5 is an illustration of the protected sprinkler assembly in FIG. 1 A being installed by hand. The protected fire protection sprinkler 1 10 is installed into the branch connector 122. The protective device 100 peripherally protects operative components of the fire protection sprinkler 1 10, including the thermal trigger 134 and the deflector 144.-20-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOOThe protective device 100 provides a surface against which the user can exert a force to manually torque the fire protection sprinkler 1 10 into the branch connector 122. Once installed, the protective device 100 can be removed and / or released from the fire protection sprinkler 110 by pulling one of the releasing segments 148 to thereby expose the operational components of the fire protection sprinkler 110 and place the fire protection sprinkler 110 into service.

[0054] It should be understood that any numerical range, value, dimension or, percentage value, or approximation thereof provided herein can vary by ± 10% unless otherwise already understood and established by accepted industry or manufacturing standards.

[0055] While the present invention has been disclosed with reference to certain embodiments, numerous modifications, alterations, and changes to the described embodiments are possible without departing from the sphere and scope of the present invention, as defined in the appended claims. Accordingly, it is intended that the present invention not be limited to the described embodiments, but that it has the full scope defined by the language of the following claims, and equivalents thereof.-21 -184250290.1

Claims

PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOOCLAIMS l / We claim:1 . A protected fire protection sprinkler assembly comprising: a fire protection sprinkler including a body having an inlet, an outlet, an internal passageway extending between the inlet and the outlet along a central sprinkler axis, an external thread formed about the central sprinkler axis, a pair of spaced apart frame arms having a lateral section and a transverse section, the pair of spaced apart frame arms disposed in a plane and extending axially from the body and converging toward one another to form an apex along the central sprinkler axis and spaced axially from the outlet, the apex having a length along the central sprinkler axis, a thermal trigger disposed along the central sprinkler axis between the outlet and the apex, and a fluid deflector affixed to a base of the apex and having an outer perimeter disposed about the apex, the fluid deflector extending along an entire length of the apex to at least partially surround the apex; and a protective device disposed about the fire protection sprinkler, the protective device including a first end located between the inlet and the apex, a second end that surrounds the outer perimeter of the deflector, a first protective member and an identical second protective member opposed from one another about the plane to at least partially surround the thermal trigger, wherein each of the first protective member and the second protective member includes:I) a deflector cover located about the fluid deflector, extending along the entire length of the apex, and defining a maximum width of the protective device, the deflector cover having an outer shielding surface, an inner shielding surface facing the outer shielding surface, and a radial wall extending from the outer shielding surface to the inner shielding surface and disposed between the base of the apex and the outlet to surround the fluid deflector of the fire protection sprinkler; and-22-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO ii) a first pair of locking elements disposed about the lateral section of the pair of spaced-apart frame arms; and / or iii) a second pair of locking elements disposed about the transverse section of the pair of spaced apart frame arms and offset from the first pair of locking elements; and / or iv) at least one pair of ribs positioned between the first pair of locking elements and the second pair of locking elements at the lateral section of the pair of spaced apart frame arms, the at least one pair of ribs extending laterally to the central sprinkler axis.

2. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 1 , wherein each of the first protective member and the second protective member includes: i) a deflector cover extending along the entire length of the apex and defining a maximum width of the protective device, the deflector cover having an outer shielding surface, an inner shielding surface facing the outer shielding surface, and a radial wall extending from the outer shielding surface to the inner shielding surface and disposed between a base of the apex and the outlet to surround the fluid deflector of the fire protection sprinkler; and ii) a first pair of locking elements disposed about the lateral section of the pair of spaced-apart frame arms; and iii) a second pair of locking elements disposed about the transverse section of the pair of spaced apart frame arms and offset from the first pair of locking elements configured to; and iv) at least one pair of ribs positioned between the first pair of locking elements and the second pair of locking elements at the lateral section of the pair of spaced apart frame arms, the at least one pair of ribs extending laterally to the central sprinkler axis.

3. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 1 , further comprising: a concave segment extending from the first end to the deflector cover; and two straight segments laterally disposed about the concave segment and-23-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO extending from the first end to the deflector cover.

4. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 3, wherein the concave segment is contiguous to the two straight segments and a convex transition segment is positioned between the concave segment and each of the two straight segments.

5. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 4, wherein the two straight segments extend parallel to the plane.

6. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 4, wherein a releasing segment is positioned between the first pair of locking elements and the second pair of locking elements and extends from a first straight segment toward the deflector cover.

7. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 6, wherein the releasing segment has an angled outer surface extending from the first straight segment to the deflector cover, and wherein the releasing segment has a maximum distance from the central sprinkler axis greater than a maximum distance of the first straight segment to the central sprinkler axis.

8. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 7, wherein the at least one pair of ribs further comprises: a first rib and a second rib, wherein a first rib of the at least one pair of ribs extends from the concave segment to the first straight segment, and wherein a second rib of the at least one pair of ribs extends from the concave segment to a second straight segment.

9. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 8, wherein the first rib has a first rib distance perpendicular to the first straight segment less than a maximum distance of the concave segment perpendicular from the first straight segment, and-24-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO wherein the second rib has a second rib distance perpendicular to the second straight segment and equal to the first rib distance.

10. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 8, further comprising: a second pair of ribs disposed below the first pair of ribs.1 1 . The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 1 , wherein the outer shielding surface forms an oblique angle with the inner shielding surface.

12. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 11 , wherein the inner shielding surface extends perpendicular to the plane, and wherein the outer shielding surface extends from the second end toward the inner shielding surface, and / or wherein the inner shielding surface is disposed between the outlet and the apex.

13. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 11 , wherein the radial wall further comprises: a first edge contiguous to an outer edge of the outer shielding surface, the outer edge defining a perimeter of the outer shielding surface.

14. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 13, wherein the radial wall further comprises: a second edge disposed from the first edge, the second edge being contiguous to an outside edge of the inner shielding surface, the outside edge defining a perimeter of the inner shielding surface.

15. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 14, wherein an inside edge of the inner shielding surface is contiguous to a concave segment and two convex segments.

16. The protected fire protection sprinkler of claim 1 , wherein the deflector cover further comprises: a protrusion extending from the outer shielding surface.-25-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO17. The protected fire protection sprinkler of claim 16, wherein the protrusion extends perpendicular to the outer shielding surface.

18. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 2, wherein the first pair of locking elements and the second pair of locking elements each comprise: a cylindrical pin; and a cylindrical receiver.

19. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 18, wherein the cylindrical pin and the cylindrical receiver are disposed on an inner surface of the protective device.

20. A protected fire protection sprinkler assembly comprising: a fire protection sprinkler including a body having an inlet, an outlet, an internal passageway extending between the inlet and the outlet along a central sprinkler axis, an external thread, a pair of spaced apart frame arms having a lateral section and a transverse section, the pair of spaced apart frame arms disposed in a plane and extending axially from the body and converging toward one another to form an apex along the central sprinkler axis and spaced axially from the outlet, the apex having a length along the central sprinkler axis, a thermal trigger between the outlet and the apex, and a fluid deflector affixed to a base of the apex, the fluid deflector having an outer perimeter disposed about the apex; and a protective device disposed about the fire protection sprinkler, the protective device including a first end located between the inlet and the apex, a second end that surrounds an outer perimeter of the deflector, a first protective member and an identical second protective member opposed from one another about the plane to at least partially surround the thermal trigger, wherein each of the first protective member and the second protective member includes: a deflector cover extending along an entire length of the apex and defining a maximum width of the protective device, the-26-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO deflector cover having an outer shielding surface, an inner shielding surface facing the outer shielding surface, and a radial wall disposed entirely between the base of the apex and the outlet to at least partially surround the fluid deflector of the fire protection sprinkler.21 . The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 20, wherein each of the first protective member and the second protective member includes: i) the deflector cover extending along the entire length of the apex; and / or ii) a first pair of locking elements disposed about the lateral section of the pair of spaced-apart frame arms; and / or iii) a second pair of locking elements disposed about the transverse section of the pair of spaced apart frame arms and offset from the first pair of locking elements; and / or iv) at least one pair of ribs positioned between the first pair of locking elements and the second pair of locking elements at the lateral section of the pair of spaced apart frame arms.

22. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 21 , wherein the first end of the protective device further comprises: a concave segment; and two straight segments laterally disposed about the concave segment.

23. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 22, wherein the concave segment is contiguous to the two straight segments and a convex transition segment is between the concave segment and each of the straight segments, and / or wherein the concave segment and the two straight segments extend from the first end to the deflector cover.

24. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 23, wherein the two straight segments are configured to receive a manual torque applied to the protective device.-27-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO25. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 23, wherein a releasing segment extends from a first straight segment of the two straight segments between the first pair of locking elements and the second pair of locking elements towards the deflector cover.

26. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 25, wherein the releasing segment has an angled outer surface extending from the first straight segment to the deflector cover, and wherein the releasing segment has a maximum distance from the central sprinkler axis greater than a maximum distance of the first straight segment to the central sprinkler axis.

27. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 26, further comprising: the at least one pair of ribs includes a first rib and a second rib, wherein a first rib of the at least one pair of ribs extends from the concave segment to the first straight segment, and wherein a second rib of the at least one pair of ribs extends from the concave segment to a second straight segment.

28. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 27, wherein the pair of ribs extends perpendicular to the first and second straight segments and outwardly away from the thermal trigger.

29. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 28, further comprising: a second pair of ribs disposed below or above the first pair of ribs.

30. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 20, wherein the outer shielding surface is angled relative to the inner shielding surface.31 . The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 30, wherein the outer shielding surface is angled toward the second end away from the inner shielding surface.-28-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO32. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 30, wherein a first edge of the radial wall is contiguous to an outer edge of the outer shielding surface.

33. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 32, wherein a second edge of the radial wall is contiguous to an exterior edge of the inner shielding surface, and / or wherein the outer edge and the exterior edge are positioned between the base of the apex and the outlet.

34. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 33, wherein a concave segment and two convex segments extend to the inner shielding surface.

35. The protected fire protection sprinkler of claim 20, wherein the deflector cover further comprises: a protrusion extending from the outer shielding surface.

36. The protected fire protection sprinkler of claim 35, wherein the protrusion extends laterally from the central sprinkler axis.

37. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 21 , wherein the first pair of locking elements and the second pair of locking elements each comprise: a cylindrical pin; and a cylindrical receiver.

38. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 37, wherein the cylindrical pin and the cylindrical receiver are disposed on an inner surface of the protective device.

39. A protected fire protection sprinkler assembly comprising: a fire protection sprinkler including a body having an inlet, an outlet, an internal passageway extending between the inlet and the outlet along a central sprinkler axis, an external thread formed about the central sprinkler axis, a pair of spaced apart frame arms having a lateral section and a transverse section, the pair of spaced apart frame arms disposed in a plane and -29-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO extending axially from the body and converging toward one another to form an apex along the central sprinkler axis and spaced axially from the outlet, the apex having a length along the central sprinkler axis, a thermal trigger disposed along the central sprinkler axis between the outlet and the apex, and a fluid deflector affixed to a base of the apex, the fluid deflector having an outer perimeter disposed about the apex to at least partially surround the apex; and a protective device disposed about the fire protection sprinkler, the protective device including a first end located between the inlet and the apex, a second end that surrounds the outer perimeter of the deflector, a first protective member and an identical second protective member opposed from one another about the plane to at least partially surround the thermal trigger, wherein each of the first protective member and the second protective member includes:I) a cover located about the fluid deflector having an outer shielding surface, inner shielding surface, and a radial wall between the outer shielding surface and the inner shielding surface, the radial wall defining a maximum width of the protective device transverse the central sprinkler axis, the radial wall including an outer end contiguous with the outer shielding surface and an inner end contiguous with the inner shielding surface, wherein the outer end and the inner end are located along the central sprinkler axis between the base of the apex and outlet of the body of the fire protection sprinkler; and ii) a protective chamber having a primary planar surface extending from the first end and disposed away from the plane and a pair of secondary planar surfaces contiguous to and disposed about either side of the primary planar surface and extending toward the plane.-30-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO40. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 39, wherein each of the first protective member and the second protective member includes: i) the first pair of locking elements disposed about the lateral section of the pair of spaced-apart frame arms; and / or ii) the second pair of locking elements disposed about the transverse section of the pair of spaced apart frame arms and offset from the first pair of locking elements.41 . The assembly of claim 39, wherein the outer shielding surface is angled relative to the inner shielding surface.

42. The assembly of claim 41 , wherein the outer shielding surface is angled toward the second end away from the inner shielding surface.

43. The assembly of claim 39, further comprises: a transition surface between the planar surface and each of the secondary planar surfaces.

44. The assembly of claim 43, further comprising: a concave segment extending from the planar surface to the outer shielding surface; and two straight segments laterally disposed about the concave segment extending from the secondary planar surfaces to the outer shielding surface.

45. The assembly of claim 44, wherein the concave segment is contiguous to the two straight segments and a convex transition segment is positioned between the concave segment and each of the two straight segments, and / or the concave segment is disposed between the apex and the outlet.

46. The assembly of claim 45, further comprising: a perpendicular transition segment between the concave segment and planar surface and between the two straight segments and the pair of secondary planar surfaces.-31 -184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO47. The assembly of claim 40, wherein a first locking element of the first pair of locking elements is disposed on a first secondary planar surface of the pair of secondary planar surfaces and a second locking element of the first pair of locking elements is disposed on a second secondary planar surface of the pair of secondary planar surfaces.

48. The assembly of claim 47, wherein a first locking element of the second pair of locking elements is disposed on a first straight segment and a second locking element of the second pair of locking elements is disposed on a second straight segment.

49. The assembly of claim 47, wherein the first pair of locking elements and the second pair of locking elements each comprise: a cylindrical pin; and a cylindrical receiver.

50. A protected fire protection sprinkler assembly comprising: a fire protection sprinkler including a body having an inlet, an outlet, an internal passageway extending between the inlet and the outlet along a central sprinkler axis, an external thread formed about the central sprinkler axis, a pair of spaced apart frame arms having a lateral section and a transverse section, the pair of spaced apart frame arms disposed in a plane and extending axially from the body and converging toward one another to form an apex along the central sprinkler axis and spaced axially from the outlet, the apex having a length along the central sprinkler axis a thermal trigger disposed along the central sprinkler axis between the outlet and the apex, and a fluid deflector affixed to a base of the apex, the fluid deflector having an outer perimeter disposed about the apex to at least partially surround the apex; and a protective device disposed about the fire protection sprinkler, the protective device including a first protective member, and an identical second protective member, the first protective member and the second protective member opposed from one another about the plane to at least partially surround the thermal trigger, each of the first protective member and the second protective member having a first end located between the inlet and-32-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO the apex, a second end disposed from the first end to at least partially surround the outer perimeter of the fluid deflector, wherein each of the first protective member and the second protective member include: i) a deflector cover located about the deflector and extending along an entire length of the apex, the deflector cover having an outer shielding surface, an inner shielding surface facing the outer shielding surface, and a radial wall extending from the outer shielding surface and the inner shielding surface and positioned entirely between the base of the apex and the outlet of the fire protection sprinkler; and ii) a protective chamber having a primary planar surface extending from the first end and disposed away from the plane and a pair of secondary planar surfaces contiguous to and disposed about either side of the primary planar surface extending from the primary planar surface toward the plane; and iii) a first pair of locking elements disposed about the lateral section of the pair of spaced-apart frame arms; and / or iv) a second pair of locking elements disposed about the transverse section of the pair of spaced apart frame arms and offset from the first pair of locking elements, and / or v) two pairs of ribs, each pair having one rib disposed on either side of the primary planar surface, including a first pair of ribs disposed between the first end and the first pair of locking elements and a second pair of ribs disposed between the first pair of locking elements and the second pair of locking elements.51 . The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 50, wherein each of the first protective member and the second protective member includes: i) two pairs of ribs, each pair having one rib disposed on either side of the primary planar surface, including the first pair of ribs disposed between the first end and the first pair of locking elements and the second pair of ribs disposed-33-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO between the first pair of locking elements and the second pair of locking elements; and ii) the first pair of locking elements disposed about the lateral section of the pair of spaced-apart frame arms; and iii) the second pair of locking elements disposed about the transverse section of the pair of spaced apart frame arms and offset from the first pair of locking elements.

52. The assembly of claim 50, wherein the inner shielding surface of the deflector cover is entirely disposed between the apex and the outlet.

53. The assembly of claim 50, wherein the outer shielding surface forms an oblique angle with the inner shielding surface.

54. The assembly of claim 53, wherein the outer shielding surface extends from the second end toward the inner shielding surface.

55. The assembly of claim 50, further comprises: a concave transition surface between the planar surface and each of the secondary planar surfaces.

56. The assembly of claim 50, further comprising: a concave segment extending from the planar surface to the inner shielding surface; and two straight segments laterally disposed about the concave segment and protective chamber, the two straight segments extending from the first end to the inner shielding surface.

57. The assembly of claim 56, wherein the concave segment is contiguous to the two straight segments, and wherein a convex transition segment is positioned between the concave segment and each of the two straight segments, and / or the concave segment is disposed between the apex and the outlet.-34-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO58. The assembly of claim 57, further comprising: a perpendicular transition segment disposed between the concave segment and the planar surface, the perpendicular transition segment extending between the two straight segments and the pair of secondary planar surfaces.

59. The assembly of claim 51 , wherein a first locking element of the first pair of locking elements is disposed on a first straight segment of the pair of straight segments and a second locking element of the first pair of locking elements is disposed on a second straight segment of the pair of straight segments.

60. The assembly of claim 59, wherein a first locking element of the second pair of locking elements is disposed on the first straight segment and a second locking element of the second pair of locking elements is disposed on the second straight segment.61 . The assembly of claim 59, wherein the first pair of locking elements and the second pair of locking elements each comprise: a cylindrical pin; and a cylindrical receiver.

62. The assembly of claim 50, wherein the protective chamber defines a maximum width of the protective device.

63. A protected fire protection sprinkler assembly comprising: a fire protection sprinkler including a body having an inlet, an outlet, an internal passageway extending between the inlet and the outlet along a central sprinkler axis, an external thread formed about the central sprinkler axis, a pair of spaced apart frame arms having a lateral section and a transverse section, the pair of spaced apart frame arms disposed in a plane and extending axially from the body and converging toward one another to form an apex along the central sprinkler axis and spaced axially from the outlet, the apex having a length along the central sprinkler axis, a thermal trigger-35-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO disposed along the central sprinkler axis between the outlet and the apex, and a fluid deflector affixed to a base of the apex, the fluid deflector having an outer perimeter disposed about the apex; and a protective device disposed about the fire protection sprinkler, the protective device including a first end located between the inlet and the apex, a second end that surrounds the outer perimeter of the deflector, a first protective member and an identical second protective member opposed from one another about the plane to at least partially surround the thermal trigger, wherein each of the first protective member and the second protective member includes: a deflector cover disposed about the fluid deflector, extending along an entire length of the apex, the deflector cover having a radial wall extending along the central sprinkler axis and positioned between the base of the apex and the outlet of the fire protection sprinkler; and a protective chamber having a primary planar surface extending from the first end and disposed away from the plane and a pair of secondary planar surfaces contiguous to and disposed about either side of the primary planar surface extending towards the plane.

64. The assembly of claim 63, wherein each of the first protective member and the second protective member includes: i) two pairs of ribs including a first pair of ribs disposed between the first end and a first pair of locking elements and a second pair of ribs disposed between the first pair of locking elements and a second pair of locking elements; and / or ii) the first pair of locking elements disposed about the lateral section of the pair of spaced-apart frame arms; and / or iii) the second pair of locking elements disposed about the transverse section of the pair of spaced apart frame arms and offset from the first pair of locking elements.-36-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO65. The assembly of claim 64, wherein the deflector cover further comprises: an outer shielding surface and an inner shielding surface facing the outer shielding surface to at least partially surround the fluid deflector of the fire protection sprinkler.

66. The assembly of claim 65, wherein the outer shielding surface is angled relative to the inner shielding surface.

67. The assembly of claim 66, wherein the outer shielding surface is angled towards the second end away from the inner shielding surface.

68. The assembly of claim 67, further comprises: a transition surface between the planar surface and each of the secondary planar surfaces.

69. The assembly of claim 68, further comprising: a concave segment extending from the planar surface to the outer shielding surface; and two straight segments laterally disposed about the concave segment extending from the secondary planar surfaces to the outer shielding surface.

70. The assembly of claim 69, wherein the concave segment is contiguous to the two straight segments and a convex transition segment is between the concave segment and each of the two straight segments.71 . The assembly of claim 70, further comprising: a perpendicular transition segment between the concave segment and planar surface and between the two straight segments and the pair of secondary planar surfaces.

72. The assembly of claim 64, wherein a first locking element of the first pair of locking elements is disposed on a first secondary planar surface of the pair of secondary planar surfaces and a second locking element of the first pair of locking elements is-37-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO disposed on a second secondary planar surface of the pair of secondary planar surfaces.

73. The assembly of claim 72, wherein a first locking element of the second pair of locking elements is disposed on a first straight segment and a second locking element of the second pair of locking elements is disposed on a second straight segment.

74. The assembly of claim 73, wherein the first pair of locking elements and the second pair of locking elements each comprise: a cylindrical pin; and a cylindrical receiver.

75. The assembly of claim 63, wherein the protective chamber defines a maximum width of the protective device.

76. A protected fire protection sprinkler assembly comprising: a fire protection sprinkler including a body having an inlet, an outlet, an internal passageway extending between the inlet and the outlet along a central sprinkler axis, an external thread formed about the central sprinkler axis, a pair of spaced apart frame arms having a lateral section and an transverse section, the pair of spaced apart frame arms disposed in a plane and extending axially from the body and converging toward one another to form an apex along the central sprinkler axis and spaced axially from the outlet, the apex having a length along the central sprinkler axis, a thermal trigger disposed along the central sprinkler axis between the outlet and the apex, and a fluid deflector affixed to a base of the apex, the fluid deflector having an outer perimeter disposed about the apex to at least partially surround the apex; and a protective device disposed about the fire protection sprinkler, the protective device including a first end located between the inlet and the apex, a second end that surrounds the outer perimeter of the deflector, a first protective member and an identical second protective member opposed from one another about the plane to at least partially surround the thermal trigger,-38-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO wherein each of the first protective member and the second protective member includes: i) a deflector cover extending along an entire length of the apex and having an outer shielding surface, an inner shielding surface disposed from the outer shielding surface between the apex and the outlet of the fire protection sprinkler, and a radial wall extending from the outer shielding surface to the second shielding and positioned entirely between the base of the apex and the outlet of the fire protection sprinkler to at least partially surround the deflector; and ii) a protective chamber having a primary planar surface extending from the first end and disposed away from the plane and a pair of secondary planar surfaces contiguous to and disposed about either side of the primary planar surface extending towards the plane.

77. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of claim 76, wherein each of the first protective member and the second protective member includes: i) the first pair of locking elements disposed about the lateral section of the pair of spaced-apart frame arms; and ii) the second pair of locking elements disposed about the transverse section of the pair of spaced apart frame arms and offset from the first pair of locking elements; and ii) at least one pair of ribs positioned between a first pair of locking elements and a second pair of locking elements at the lateral section of the pair of spaced apart frame arms.

78. The assembly of claim 76, wherein the outer shielding surface faces the inner shielding surface, and wherein the radial wall extends along the entire length of the apex to at least partially surround the fluid deflector.

79. The assembly of claim 78, wherein the outer shielding surface is angled relative to the inner shielding surface.-39-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO80. The assembly of claim 79, wherein the outer shielding surface is angled toward the second end away from the inner shielding surface.81 . The assembly of claim 76, further comprises: a transition surface between the planar surface and each of the secondary planar surfaces.

82. The assembly of claim 81 , further comprising: a concave segment extending from the planar surface to the outer shielding surface; and two straight segments laterally disposed about the concave segment extending from the secondary planar surfaces to the outer shielding surface.

83. The assembly of claim 82, wherein the concave segment is contiguous to the two straight segments and a convex transition segment is between the concave segment and each of the two straight segments, and / or the concave segment is entirely disposed between the apex and the outlet.

84. The assembly of claim 83, further comprising: a perpendicular transition segment between the concave segment and planar surface and between the two straight segments and the pair of secondary planar surfaces.

85. The assembly of claim 77, wherein a first locking element of the first pair of locking elements is disposed on a first secondary planar surface of the pair of secondary planar surfaces and a second locking element of the first pair of locking elements is disposed on a second secondary planar surface of the pair of secondary planar surfaces.

86. The assembly of claim 85, wherein a first locking element of the second pair of locking elements is disposed on a first straight segment and a second locking element of the second pair of locking elements is disposed on a second straight segment.

87. The assembly of claim 85, wherein the first pair of locking elements and the-40-184250290.1PATENTAttorney Docket No. 127089-8218.WOOO second pair of locking elements each comprise: a cylindrical pin; and a cylindrical receiver.

88. The assembly of claim 76, wherein the protective chamber defines a maximum width of the protective device.-41 -184250290.1

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