Priority Data and Incorporation by Reference

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/389,550, filed July 15, 2022, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Technical Field

[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 Art

[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. In some fire protection sprinklers, the release of fluid discharge from the sprinkler 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 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.

[0004] The response and actuation of the 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. Known fire protection sprinkler covers are shown and described in U.S. Patent No. 6,669,111; U.S. Patent No. 7,273,189; U.S. Patent No. 7,540,330; U.S. Patent No. 7,757,967; and U.S. Patent No. 7,900,852. Generally, these known protective devices are axially disposed over the sprinkler to protect the fluid deflector and the thermally responsive trigger. Alternatively, the protective device is strapped, pivoted, or connected about the sprinkler frame between the frame body and the fluid deflection member to protect the thermally responsive trigger. These known protective sprinkler covers are made from plastic and are affixed about the sprinkler to protect the sprinkler during storage, transport, handling and/or during the installation process. Once the sprinkler is properly installed in a branch connector, the protective device can be removed to place the sprinkler into service.

[0005] 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 line(s) 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. [0006] 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. Known connectors have one inlet end configured for welded connection to the pipe header and an opposite outlet end with a tapered threaded end for connection of a sprinkler. In order to form a fluid tight seal between the threadedly engaged connector and the sprinkler, a sealing tape or putty is applied to the sprinkler. In order to form a fluid tight seal between the cooperating tapered threads, the sprinkler must be properly torqued using a wrench.

[0007] There are also known branch connectors which eliminate either or both of the tapered thread connection or the need to apply a sealing tape or putty. For example, each of U.S. Patent Nos. 8,297,663; 8,662,191; and 10,744,527 and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2019/0175968 show and describe connectors or adapters for connecting a fire protection sprinkler to a pipe header. Each of these known connectors use an internal straight thread at the outlet to connect the tapered thread of the fire protection sprinkler, which allows the sprinkler to be placed in a desired rotational orientation without the interference of the thread engagement. To form a fluid tight seal between the connector and the sprinkler, each of the connectors employ an internal annular seal member. The sprinkler is then threaded into the connector and sufficiently torqued to form the fluid tight connection.

[0008] Tn order to maintain protection of the sprinkler during the installation process it is preferred to keep a protective device on the sprinkler. This can create a problem for properly torquing the sprinkler to form a fluid tight seal. The presence of a known protective device on the sprinkler frame can interfere or prevent proper wrench engagement. Moreover, it is problematic trying to use the known protective device to directly torque the sprinkler because these known protective devices are not configured to sufficiently grasp the sprinkler frame and transfer a torque sufficient to form a fluid tight sealed connection. Accordingly, there is a need for sprinkler protective devices that can protect operative components of the sprinkler during storage, transport handling and installation; transfer a torque or rotational force to form a fluid tight sealed connection between a sprinkler and a branch connector; and be easily removable in order to place the sprinkler into service.

Disclosure of the Invention

[0009] Preferred embodiments of a method of protecting and installing a fire protection sprinkler, and more preferably, an automatic fire protection sprinkler, are achieved by providing a protected fire protection sprinkler assembly. A preferred embodiment of the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly includes a fire protection sprinkler and a protective device. The protective device, preferably, includes two discrete protective members that are opposed and coupled to one another in a releasable locked arrangement that defines an internal void for housing and protecting at least a portion of a fire protection sprinkler. The protective members of the preferred protective device include a solid wall, and, in particular, an impervious wall, that confronts the fire protection sprinkler and provides a torque assist portion and a deflector protection portion.

[0010] A preferred embodiment for the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly includes 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, and an external thread formed about the central sprinkler axis. A pair of spaced apart frame arms are disposed in a plane and extending axially from the body and converge toward one another to form an apex along the central sprinkler axis and spaced axially from the outlet. A thermally responsive trigger is disposed along the central sprinkler axis between the outlet and the apex. The thermally responsive trigger is a component that responds and operates passively to an increase in temperature. The thermally responsive trigger can be included in an assembly to provide a thermally responsive trigger assembly. A fluid deflector is affixed to the apex. The fluid deflector, preferably, has an outer perimeter that surrounds the apex. The fluid deflector can be configured for various fire sprinkler protection position installations, such as, pendent, upright and/or horizontal, and can be also configured to control, suppress, and/or address a fire by distribution of a firefighting fluid, such as, water or a water-concentrate solution.

[0011] The preferred embodiment for the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly also includes a protective device disposed about the fire protection sprinkler. The preferred, protective device including a first protective member and a second protective member opposed from one another about the plane to at least partially surround the thermally responsive trigger. The first protective member and the second protective member defining a torque assist portion and a deflector protection portion. The torque assist portion, preferably, includes a plurality of torque assist surfaces contiguous the pair of spaced apart frame arms of the fire protection sprinkler.

[0012] The first protective member and the second protective member also include a releasable lock arrangement including a first and a second releasable lock arrangement; each releasable lock arrangement extending through the plane in which the pair of frame arms are disposed and proximate the apex of the fire protection sprinkler. The first releasable lock arrangement being disposed proximate a first lateral portion of the apex and the second releasable lock arrangement being disposed proximate a second lateral portion of the apex. The preferred protective device includes a releasing segment aligned with the first releasable lock arrangement and second releasable lock arrangement.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment, the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly includes a fire protection sprinkler and a protective device disposed about the fire protection sprinkler. The protective device includes a first protective member and second protective member opposed from one another about a plane to at least partially surround a thermally responsive trigger. Preferably, each of the first protective member and the second protective member includes an impervious wall. The impervious wall provides a shield for the fire protection sprinkler. The shields are secured together in an opposed manner by a releasable lock arrangement, which provides the only interconnection between the shields.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment, each impervious wall or shield, preferably, includes a first end located between a body, and, in particular, an outlet of the body, and an apex that supports a fluid deflector of the fire protection sprinkler and a second end that surrounds an outer perimeter of the fluid deflector of the fire protection sprinkler. The impervious wall also, preferably, includes at least a pair of lateral torque assist surfaces proximate the first end with each of the pair of lateral torque assist surfaces being contiguous with a pair of spaced apart frame arms of the fire protection sprinkler. The impervious wall also includes a pair of locking elements disposed about the apex, and a releasing segment proximate the second end and aligned with the pair of locking elements.

[0015] Preferably, the first end of the impervious wall comprises a shield segment. The shield segment comprises a concave segment and two convex segments laterally disposed about the concave segment. The concave segment confronts, and preferably is contiguous to the two convex segments and an inflection transition is between the concave segment and each of the convex segments. The pair of lateral torque assist surfaces comprise a first lateral torque assist surface contiguous a first of the two convex segments and a second lateral torque assist surface contiguous a second of the two convex segments. The first lateral torque assist surface comprises a first planar member extending parallel to the plane, and the second lateral torque assist surface comprises a second planar member extending parallel to the plane.

[0016] Preferably, alternatively, and/or additionally, the first end comprises a torque assist portion and a central section of the impervious wall comprises a central plurality of segments that narrow between the first end and the second end. Preferably, each of the plurality of central segments includes a curved portion disposed along the central sprinkler axis and a planar portion transverse to a central sprinkler axis of the fire protection sprinkler. [0017] Preferably, alternatively, and/or additionally, the first end of the impervious wall includes a trigger shield segment for protecting the thermally responsive trigger assembly. The trigger shield segment has a first maximum radius from a central sprinkler axis of the fire protection sprinkler. The second end that surrounds the perimeter of the deflector includes a peripheral shielding surface for protecting the fluid deflector. The peripheral shielding surface has a second maximum radius from the central sprinkler axis, and the second maximum radius is greater than the first maximum radius.

[0018] Preferably, alternatively, and/or additionally, the second end that surrounds the perimeter of the deflector comprises a first radially extending shielding surface and a peripheral shielding surface that at least partially circumscribes the outer perimeter of the fluid deflector. The second end, preferably, includes a second radially extending shielding surface, and wherein the peripheral shielding surface extends between the first radially extending shielding surface and the second radially extending shielding surface.

[0019] Preferably, and/or additionally, a pair of lock elements comprise an insert and a receiver, and the releasing segment comprises a planar member extending parallel to the plane from one of a first longitudinal side of the impervious wall or a second longitudinal side of the impervious wall.

[0020] The preferred embodiments of the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly provide for a preferred method of installation, and, more preferably, a method for placing into service a fire protection sprinkler. The torque assist portion and deflector protection portion of the preferred embodiments of the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly allow for manually torquing the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly into a branch connector while providing damage protection to the fire protection sprinkler and/or harm or injury protection to the hand of a user that is manually torquing the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly. The protected fire protection sprinkler assembly is, preferably, manually torqued into the branch connector to compress a gasket in the branch connector and form a sealed connection between the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly and the branch connecter. Once the sealed connection is formed, the protective device of the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly is removed from the fire protection sprinkler. In particular, the protective device can be removed from the fire protection sprinkler by separating one of a pair of releasable lock arrangements that secures together the opposed shields of the preferred embodiment of the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly. Preferably, the separating at least one of the pair of releasable lock arrangements between the opposed shields is achieved by pulling a releasing segment aligned with the pair of releasable lock arrangements to place the fire protection sprinkler in a mode ready for servicing an area to be protected.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0021] 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.

[0022] FIG. 1 A is a partial cross-sectional exploded view of a preferred embodiment of a protected fire protection sprinkler assembly and an associated branch connector. [0023] FIG. IB is a partial cross-sectional phantom view of the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly coupled to the branch connector of FIG. 1 A.

[0024] FIG. 2A is an exploded view of the preferred embodiment of the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of FIG. 1A.

[0025] FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional plan view IIB in FIG. 2A of the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of FIG. 1A.

[0026] FIG. 2C is a detailed view of FIG. 2B within portion IIC.

[0027] FIGS. 3A and 3B are perspective views of the protective device used in the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly in FIG. 1A.

[0028] FIG. 3C is an exploded perspective view of the protective device in FIG. 3A.

[0029] FIG. 4A is an exploded view of an alternate preferred embodiment of the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of FIG. 1 A.

[0030] FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional plan view of the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly of FIG. 4 A.

[0031] FIG. 5 is an illustration of the preferred protected sprinkler assembly in FIG. 1 A being installed by hand.

Mode(s) For Carrying Out the Invention

[0032] Shown in FIG. 1A is an exploded partial cross-sectional view of a preferred protected fire protection sprinkler assembly 10 having a fire protection sprinkler 20 and a protective device 100 for installation in a branch connector 200 of a fluid supply pipe header 300. Preferred embodiments of the protective device 100 protect the sprinkler 20 from unintentional impact and 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 sprinkler 20 into the branch connector 200 of a fire protection sprinkler system. More specifically, the preferred device 100 facilitates installation of the sprinkler 20 by hand torquing the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly 10 into the branch connector 200 as illustrated in FIG. 5. Additionally, the preferred protective device 100 is configured for removal or release from the sprinkler 20, preferably by hand, in order to place the sprinkler 20 into service.

[0033] With reference to FIGS. 1A-1B, 2A-2B, and 4A-4B in preferred embodiments of the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly and its installation, the sprinkler 20 generally includes a frame 30 with a body 32 and a pair of spaced apart frame arms 34a, 34b extending from and preferably diametrically disposed about the body 32. The frame arms 34a, 34b are preferably aligned with one another in plane P. A fluid deflector 40 is coupled to the frame arms 34a, 34b and axially spaced from the body 32. The fluid deflector 40 and the sprinkler 20 can be configured for installation as a pendent sprinkler, as shown, an upright sprinkler, or a horizontal sprinkler. The sprinkler body 32 has a fluid inlet 31, a fluid outlet 33, defining an internal passageway 35 extending between the inlet 31 and the outlet 33 along a central sprinkler axis X-X. The sprinkler body 32 is configured for installation in the branch connector 200; and in preferred embodiments of the sprinkler 20, the body 32 includes an external thread formed about the central sprinkler axis X-X for a preferably threaded connection to the branch connector 200.

[0034] The sprinkler 20 is preferably an automatic sprinkler with a thermally responsive trigger, and, more preferably, a thermally responsive trigger assembly 50 coaxially disposed between the body 32 and the fluid deflector 40. A preferred embodiment of the trigger assembly 50 can be embodied as a solder link with strut and lever assembly as shown in FIG 2A-2B. Alternatively, the trigger assembly can be a frangible glass bulb with supporting structure to provide an alternative embodiment of the thermally responsive trigger assembly 50’ as shown in FIGS 4A-4B. As such, the solder link or the frangible glass bulb provide a thermally responsive trigger for the automatic fire protection sprinkler 20 that operates passively in response to temperature. The automatic fire protection sprinkler includes an internal seal assembly 39 that is supported in place by the thermally responsive trigger assembly 50, 50’ to maintain a fluid tight seal. In preferred embodiments of the sprinkler 20, the fluid deflector 40 is affixed to an apex 34c coaxially aligned the central axis X-X, and preferably, surrounds the apex 34c. Alternatively, or additionally, the trigger assembly 50, 50’ and/or seal assembly 39 can incorporate an actuator for a controlled discharge. In the preferred frame 30, the frame arms 34a, 34b preferably converge to form the preferred apex 34c. The thermally responsive trigger assembly 50, 50’ is preferably axially supported by a threaded load screw or member 60 threaded into the apex 34c. Accordingly, the apex 34c is preferably located between the thermally responsive trigger assembly 50, 50’ and the fluid deflector 40. When the sprinkler 20 is installed and placed in service, the trigger assembly 50, 50’ is configured to thermally actuate in response to a fire or sufficient level of heat. Upon thermal actuation, the seal assembly 39 is released and ejected from the outlet 33 preferably under fluid pressure delivered to the inlet 31 from the header 300 and through the branch connector 200. The firefighting fluid is discharged from the open outlet 33 for distribution by the fluid deflector 40 to address the fire event.

[0035] Generally, the preferred protection device 100 is a protection tool configured to install and connect the sprinkler 20 to the branch connector 200. Preferred embodiments of the protective device 100 also include a torque assist portion 120 or features thereof that facilitate transfer of a torque, and more preferably a hand torque, to the sprinkler 20 by minimizing or eliminating rotational slip or relative rotation between the sprinkler 20 and the device 100. As described herein, the torque assist portion 120 preferably includes an external surface of the device 100 that can be used by a user to apply a gripping and rotational force to the sprinkler 20. The device 100 can remain in place to protect the installed sprinkler 20 until the sprinkler and the sprinkler system are ready to be placed into service. In order to place the sprinkler 20 into service, the protective device 100 must be removed to expose the operational components of the sprinkler 20. Preferred embodiments of the device 100 includes a releasing segment 150 to remove the protective device 100 from the sprinkler 20. [0036] In the preferred sprinkler assembly 10, the protective and installation device 100 is disposed about the fire protection sprinkler frame 30 so as to at least partially circumscribe and protect the thermally responsive trigger assembly 50, 50’ and even more preferably partially circumscribe and protect the fluid deflector 40. As such, the protective device 100 includes a first portion 100a at a first end along the central sprinkler axis X-X that provides a torque assist portion and a second portion 100b at a second end along the central sprinkler axis X-X that provides a deflector protection portion. The device 100 is preferably disposed about the sprinkler 20 so as to locate and house operative components of the sprinkler 20 within the internal protective space or void of the device 100. With reference to FIGS. 2A and 4A, the protective device 100 preferably includes a first discrete member 110a and a second discrete member 110b in which they are shown opposed one another about a plane P in a preferred releasable locked arrangement with the pair of frame arms 34a, 34b preferably disposed in the plane P. Each of the preferably opposed members 110a, 110b is a wall structure, and, preferably, a solid wall, and, more preferably, an impervious wall that provides a first shield and an opposed second shield that are releasably locked to one another. As used herein, ‘solid wall’ means a wall structure with an outer perimeter between an interior surface that confronts the sprinkler 20 and an exterior surface exposed for gripping by a user, and the wall structure may have passages, such as, a through-hole, an aperture, and/or an opening so long as such passage does not affect the function of the torque assist portion and the deflector protection portion; in contrast, an “impervious wall” means a wall structure without a passage, such as, a through-hole, an aperture, and/or an opening.

[0037] Each of the preferably opposed members 1 10a, 1 10b has a first lateral end 1 12a and a second lateral end f 12b disposed laterally about the internal void of the device 100 or the sprinkler 20 housed therein. The opposed members 110a, 110b are preferably coupled to one another about the fire protection sprinkler 20. The members 110a, 110b are preferably identical to one another formed from a polymer or plastic material such as, for example, polyethylene and formed by molding such as, for example, injection molding. Alternatively, or additionally, the protective members 110a, 110b can be formed such that the assembled device 100 is symmetrical or asymmetrical about the plane P. Moreover, the protective members 110a, 110b can be formed so that the assembled device 100 is symmetrical or asymmetrical about another plane that is perpendicular to the plane P and intersecting the central device axis Y— Y as shown in FIGS. 3A-3B.

[0038] To secure the device 100 about the sprinkler 20, the device 100 preferably includes a plurality of releasable lock arrangements 124 to secure the discrete members 110a, 110b of the device 100 about the sprinkler 20. Preferred embodiments of the releasable lock arrangements 124 are independent in that it is the only arrangement or component of the device that can secure the device 100 about the sprinkler 20 given the separate nature of the discrete protective member 110a, 110b. The releasable lock arrangements 124 are preferably defined by a connection between the two discrete protective members 110a, 110b. The releasable lock arrangements 124 define spacers for the two discrete protective members 110a, 110b and the interior surface of each protective member 110a, 110b includes one, and preferably more than one, component or element of the releasable lock arrangements 124. Moreover, one or both of the releasable lock arrangements 124 can form the preferred independent releasable lock arrangement as a latched connection. In preferred embodiments of the device 100 and releasable lock arrangements 124, with reference to FIG. 3C and the exploded view of the protective device 100, the first protective member 110a includes one locking element 124a and another locking element 124b and the second protective member 110b, which in a preferred embodiment is identical to the first protective memberl 10a, also includes locking elements 124a, 124b. In the preferred embodiment, coupling the identical and opposed first protective member 110a and the second protective member 110b to define the internal void for housing the sprinkler 20 or a portion thereof is achieved by the locking element 124a of the first protective member 110a engaging the locking element 124b of the second protective member 110b and the locking element 124b of the first protective member 110a engaging the locking element 124a of the second protective member 110b The releasable lock arrangements 124, preferably, include a cylindrical insert as the locking element 124a of one protective member 110a, 110b that engages a complementary cylindrical receiver as the locking element 124b of the other protective member 110a, 110b in a preferred frictional or interference fit such as, for example a snap-fit connection, to connect the discrete members 110a, 110b to one another in the preferred latched connection and assembled configuration of the device 100. In the assembly of the device 100, the discrete protective members are opposed to one another and drawn together, independent of one another, to bring the locking elements 124a, 124b into engagement. In the preferred embodiment, the releasable lock arrangements 124 provide a pair of spacers disposed laterally about the device axis; or in the assembly 10, the releasable lock arrangements 124 are radially disposed about each side of the apex 34c between the members 110a, 110b with each protective member 110a, 110b having one insert as the locking element 124a and one receiver as the locking element 124b. Additionally, one or both of the preferred members 110a, 110b can include other internal formations that extend toward and preferably perpendicular to the plane P to surround and/or contact the trigger assembly 50, 50’. The formations preferably stabilize the protective device 100 about the frame 30 and more preferably center the trigger 50, 50’ within the device 100. The releasable lock arrangements 124 are preferably located radially inward with respect to the lateral ends 112a, 112b and in particular, located radially inward of the preferred releasing segment 150.

[0039] In the assembled configuration of the device 100, the releasable lock arrangements 124 extend perpendicularly to the plane P between the members 110a, 110b to space the members 110a, 110b apart from one another. In the preferred protected sprinkler assembly 10, the first and second members 110a, 110b are spaced apart from one another about the plane P and more particularly the opposed lateral ends 112a, 112b are spaced apart about the plane P for gripping the frame arms 34a, 34b therein as seen in FIGS. 2B and 4B. More particularly, in the preferred assembly 10, the first lateral end 112a of the first member 110a and the second lateral end 112b of the second member 110b are positioned opposite one another about the plane P with one frame arm 34a disposed therebetween with the second lateral end 112b of the first member 110a and the first lateral end 112a of the second member 110b are positioned opposite one another about the plane P with the other frame arm 34b disposed therebetween. In preferred embodiments of the protective device 100, the device can be grasped by hand of a user and the two members 110a, 110b can be drawn toward one another to grip the sprinkler 20. Illustrated in FIG. 5 is the protected sprinkler assembly 10 being installed into the branch connector by hand. The preferred protective device 100 peripherally protects operative components of the sprinkler 20 including the trigger and the fluid deflector. Accordingly, the device 100 can protect the hand of the user from the surface edges, and, in particular, an edge of the fluid deflector 40 of the sprinkler 20.

[0040] In preferred embodiments of the protective device 100, each of the lateral ends 112a, 112b of the respective first and second members 110a, 110b grips the respective frame arm 34a, 34b, and is also contiguous, that is, in contact with at least a portion of the respective frame arm 34a, 34b when the releasable lock arrangements 124 secure the first and second members 110a, 110b about the sprinkler 20. Alternatively, one or all of the lateral ends 1 12a, 1 12b of the respective first and second members 110a, 110b are spaced from the respective frame arm 34a, 34b when the releasable lock arrangements 124 secure the first and second members 110a, 110b about the sprinkler 20 and grip the respective frame arm 34a, 34b to become contiguous the respective frame arm 34a, 34b when the protective device 100 is grasped by the hand of a user as shown in FIG. 5.

[0041] Once installed, the protective device 100 can remain in place to protect the sprinkler until the system is ready to be placed into service. Once the sprinkler 20 and system are ready to be placed into service, the device 100 must be removed to expose the operational components of the sprinkler 20 for providing the desire fire sprinkler protection. To facilitate removal of the device 100 from the sprinkler 20 and in order to place the sprinkler into service, preferred embodiments of the device 100 include a releasing segment 150 to remove the device 100 from about the sprinkler 20. The releasing segment 150 is preferably configured to separate the protective members 110a, 110b from one another. In preferred embodiments, the releasing segment 150 is integrally formed as a segment of one or both of the discrete protective members 110a, 110b to define a lever with which a force can be applied to separate the protective members 110a, 110b from one another and release the device 100 from its position about the sprinkler 20. The releasing segment 150 is preferably formed as a laterally extending tab that is disposed laterally of the central axes X-X, Y-Y. The releasing segment 150 is preferably located along the lateral end 112a of one, and preferably both, of the protective members 110a, 110b. The preferred releasing segment 150 is shown as a tab that is a substantially planar member extending parallel to the plane P which can be grabbed by hand and pulled to release the one or both of the releasable lock arrangements 124 and separate the protective members 110a, 110b from one another. The preferred planar member of the releasing segment 150 has a plurality of linear sides and defines an inner surface 150a relative to the internal void of the device 100 and an outer surface 150b opposite the inner surface 150a. A releasing segment 150 can be alternatively shaped and/or located along the one or more protective members 110a, 110b provided that the releasing segment can be used to apply a force to disassemble the device 100. For example, the preferably planar tab member of the releasing segment 150 can be angled or skewed with respect to the plane P. Moreover, the tab member of the releasing segment 150 can be alternatively shaped or have surface treatment so as to form a non-planar member, for example, a curved Lab member, that can be preferably gripped by hand for releasing the device 100 from about the sprinkler 20.

[0042] In the protected assembly 10, the preferred releasing tab provide by the releasing segmentl50 is preferably laterally disposed so as to expose each surface 150a, 150b for grabbing, handling, pushing, and/or pulling by a user to apply a separating force. The tab of the releasing tab 150 can be disposed relative to other components of the device 100 to facilitate release of the device 100 from the sprinkler 20. In preferred embodiments of the assembly 10 and device 100, each of the releasable lock arrangements 124 and the releasing segment 150 are disposed laterally about the apex 34c. Moreover, the releasable lock arrangements 124 and releasing segment 150 are preferably aligned with one another in the lateral direction about the apex 34c. In the preferred embodiment shown, the releasable lock arrangements 124 and the releasing segment 150 are axially aligned proximate or closer to the apex 34c than the outlet 33 of the sprinkler. Additionally, the external torque assist portion 120 of the device 100 is located axially between the sprinkler outlet 33 and the apex 34c, preferably axially closer to the outlet 33 than to the apex 34c. Accordingly, the releasing segment 150 and the releasable lock arrangements 124 are axially spaced from the preferred torque assist portion 120. In preferred embodiments, the releasing segment 150 is axially located between the fluid deflector 40 and the torque assist portion 120 and more preferably axially aligned with the torque assist portion 120 along the first lateral end 112a of the same protective member 110a, 110b.

[0043] Each of the first and second members 110a, 110b define a geometric profile that facilitates sprinkler protection and handling of the assembly 10. In preferred embodiments described herein, the protective device 100 defines the first portion 100a for protecting the thermally responsive trigger 50, 50’ and preferably the second portion 100b for protecting the fluid deflector 40. In preferred embodiments of the device 100, at least one, and preferably both, of the first and second members 110a, 110b defines the torque assist portion having a shielding segment and a convex segment, with respect to the internal void of the device, having a transition therebetween to define a preferred external torque assist surface of the device. The first and second members define a first width or space therebetween to form the first portion 100a of the device for protecting the thermally responsive trigger 50, 50’. The first and second members 110a, 110b also preferably define a second width therebetween that is greater than the first width to form the second portion 100b of the device 100 for protecting the fluid deflector 40. In at least one, and preferably both, of the protective members 110a, 110b includes a concave segment 114a, and a convex segment 114b, each defined with respect to the central sprinkler axis X-X, to provide the internal volume of the protective device 100 for the thermally responsive trigger assembly 50, 50’ to be contained therein to define the shielding segment of the device 100 or portion thereof. The concave segment 114a is formed to partially circumscribe and shield the thermally responsive trigger assembly 50, 50’. In preferred embodiments, the concave segment 114a defines a variable radius about the central axis X-X.

[0044] The shielding portion of the members 110a, 110b can be defined by alternate geometries about the axis X— X provided the geometry can at least partially surround and shield the trigger assembly 50, 50’. In preferred embodiments of the protection members 110a, 110b shown, each of the protective members include a concave segment 114a with two convex segments 114b laterally disposed about the concave segment 114a. Preferably, the central concave segment 114a and lateral convex segments 114a, 114b are contiguous with one another to define a preferred inflection transition 115 of the protective member 110a, 110b. For the preferred protective device 100, the transition 115 provides an external surface of the torque assist portion 120 of the device at each lateral end 112a, 112b of the protective members 110a, 110b that can be used for applying a torque to the protected assembly 10 to facilitate installation of the sprinkler 20 into the branch connector 200 or other fitting. The convex segment 114b defines a preferred external finger rest or thumb drive against which a hand torque can be applied as illustrated in FIG. 5. Additionally, or alternatively, the external surface of the convex segment 114b can include other surface features to accommodate and define the preferred finger or thumb rest. In the preferred sprinkler assembly 10, the convex segment 114b is preferably laterally located between the thermally responsive trigger assembly 50, 50’ and one frame arm to define the preferred external torque assist surface. Accordingly, the protective device 100 provides a preferred method for protecting and installing a fire protection assembly 10 that includes shielding the thermally responsive trigger with a concave segment 1 14a of a protective member 1 10a, 1 10b relative to the central sprinkler axis X— X; and torquing the sprinkler assembly 10 into a branch connector 200 with a convex segment 114b of the protective member 110a, 110b relative to the central sprinkler axis X-X and located between one frame arm 34 and the trigger assembly 50, 50’. [0045] To transfer a torque applied to the device 100 to the sprinkler 20, one and preferably both of the protective members 110a, 110b includes another segment 114c at one or both of the lateral ends 112a, 112b that confronts one of the frame arms 34a, 34b. In preferred embodiments of the device 100, one and preferably both of the protective members 110a, 110b includes a segment 114c at each lateral end 112a, 112b that confronts one of the frame arms 34a, 34b. More preferably, the segment 114c, preferably, extends parallel to the plane P to provide a planar segment of the torque assist portion 120, and, preferably, is configured contiguously with the concave and convex segments 114a, 114b so that the convex segment 114b is located between the concave segment 114a and the segment 114c. Accordingly, the segment 114c further defines the preferred external torque assist surface of the torque assist portion 120 with the convex segment 114b and the preferred inflection transition 115. With reference to FIGS. 2B and 2C, the preferred segment 114c of the torque assist portion 120 is located to confront, and, preferably, contact the frame arm 34a and preferred planar releasing segment 150 extends radially outside the confronted frame arm 34a. In an alternate embodiment in which the planar releasing segment 150 is skewed with respect to the plane P, the releasing segment 150 is skewed with respect to the planar portion 114c of the torque assist portion 120.

[0046] The protective device 100 is located axially to extend from the frame body 32 to the fluid deflector 40. Additionally, the protective device 100 is disposed about the frame 30 to expose the wrench boss of the sprinkler frame for use of the protective device 100 in combination with a wrench to install the sprinkler, if desired. The protective device extends axially to the fluid deflector 40 and more preferably at least peripherally surrounds the fluid deflector 40 and even more preferably house the fluid deflector 40. In preferred embodiments of the device 100, each of the first and second members 110a, 110b defines a first maximum radius of the first protective portion 100a from the central sprinkler axis for protecting the thermally responsive trigger 50, 50’ assembly and a second maximum radius of the second protective portion 100b from the central sprinkler axis for protecting the fluid deflector 40 in which the second maximum radius is preferably greater than the first radius. As seen in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the concave segment 114a defines the preferred first maximum radius and the first protection portion 100a of the device 100 preferably narrows in the axial direction toward the second protection portion 100b. The first portion 100a can narrow uniformly or more preferably narrow in a step-wise fashion as shown. The step- wise fashion can be provided by a plurality of central segments with one or more of the central segments, preferably, having a curved portion disposed along the central sprinkler axis and a planar portion transverse to a central sprinkler axis of the fire protection sprinkler. Preferably, the central portions are surrounded by portions of the wall structure that are, preferably, planar to the plane, and aligned with the planar segment defined the segment 114c of the torque assist portion 120 and/or releasing segment 150. The plurality of central segments that narrow in the axial direction from the first protection portion 100a toward the second protection portion 100b aids in the user’s ability to grip the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly 10. Additionally, the central segment proximate the second portion 100b allow for the positioning of the releasable lock arrangements 124 to be positioned about the apex 34b. [0047] With reference to FIGS. 2A-2B, 3A-3C, and 4A-4B, the second protection portion 100b of the device that provides the deflector protection portion, preferably includes a radially extending shielding surface 116a disposed normal or perpendicular to the central longitudinal sprinkler axis X-X or device axis Y-Y to protect a surface of the fluid deflector 40 opposed to the outlet 33 and a peripheral shielding surface 116b that at least partially circumscribes the fluid deflector 40. Where the peripheral shielding surface 116b of the second portion 100b defines a radial distance Rp, and the preferred releasing segment 150 is preferably formed or has a portion thereof located at a radial distance that is preferably greater than the radial distance Rp. Additionally, the radial distance of radially extending shielding surface positions the peripheral shielding surface at a maximum radius of the radial distance Rp greater than a maximum radius of a radial distance Rt of the trigger shielding segment provided by convex segement 114b of the first protective portion 100a from the central sprinkler axis X-X. In the preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 3B, the second protection portion 100b can include a second radially extending shielding surface 116c parallel to the first radially extending surface and normal to the central axis X-X to form a preferred lower surface or lip for shielding the fluid deflector 40 with the peripheral shielding surface 116b extending between the radially extending shielding surfaces 116a, 116c. [0048] Illustrated in FIG. 5 is the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly 10 being installed into the branch connector by hand. The preferred protective device 100 peripherally protects operative components of the sprinkler 20 including the trigger and the fluid deflector. The external surface of the torque assist portion 120 provides a finger rest and more preferably a thumb rest against which the installer can exert a force to torque the sprinkler 20 into the branch connector 200. With a thumb exerted against one device member 110a, the remaining fingers can curl about the other device member 110b. Once installed, the device 100 can be removed or released from the sprinkler 20 by pulling the preferred releasing segment(s) 150 to thereby expose operational components of the sprinkler 20 for service. [0049] Referring again to FIGS. 1A and IB, preferred embodiments of the protected sprinkler assembly are configured for hand installation into the branch connector 200 in a fluid tight connection. The branch connector 200 shown is generally a tubular member having a first inlet end 212 for connection to the pipe header 300 and a second outlet end 214 for a preferred threaded connection to the fluid distribution device 20. Depending upon the configuration of the fluid deflector 40 of the sprinkler 20, the branch connector 200 can be arranged on the header 300 for appropriate installation as pendent, an upright or a horizontal sprinkler. The branch connector 200 can be configured as a straight fitting or alternatively can be formed as a different type of fitting, such as for example, an elbow fitting or tee fitting to connect an appropriately configured sprinkler. Preferred embodiments of the branch connector 200 include an internal annular seal member for formation of a fluid tight sealed connection with the protected sprinkler assembly 20. The branch connector 200 includes a preferred internally formed gasket chamber 230 in which an annular seal member 240 is disposed. The annular seal member 240 is preferably configured as the 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 or other fire protection device and the branch connector 200. The material employed for seal member 240 is, preferably, an EPDM material having a durometer hardness of from 65 to 80, and preferably 70, to provide the desired sealing function and maintain sprinkler position. Firefighting fluid fed into the inlet end 212 flows through the annular seal member out the outlet end 214 to supply the sprinkler 20 for discharge and distribution in accordance with the performance specification of the sprinkler 20.

[0050] The connector 200 includes an internally threaded portion proximate the outlet end 214 for coupling preferred embodiments of the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly 10 and more preferably coupling the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly 10 by hand torque using preferred embodiments of the protective device 100 described herein. The outlet end 214 and internally threaded portion 220 is preferably configured for connection with the fire protection sprinkler 20 of a nominal size. Accordingly, preferred embodiments of the branch connector 200 at the outlet end 214 define a nominal size or diameter ranging from 1/2 inch to 1-1/2 inch and more particularly any one of: 1/2 inch, 3/4 inch, 1 inch, 1-1/4 inch or 1-1/2 inch. The outlet end 214 is preferably defined by a circular planar surface circumscribed and disposed orthogonally with respect to the central longitudinal axis X— X.

[0051] Generally, the external thread of the body 32 of fire protection sprinkler 20 of the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly 10 is of a tapered form, for example, NPT thread. The internal threaded portion 220 preferably includes internal straight threads for receipt of the tapered thread of the fire protection sprinkler 20. The threaded engagement remains fluid tight by compression and proper sealed engagement between the seal member 240, branch connector 200 and the sprinkler 20. The internal diameter ID of the internal straight thread can be defined by any one of the pitch diameter, minor diameter or major diameter of the internal threaded portion 220 provided the straight thread engages the tapered thread of the sprinkler 20. The internal straight thread can be for example, a 1-11.5 NPSH Thread; a 3/4 - 14 NPSH Thread; or a 1/2-14 NPS Thread for mating with a correspondingly nominal 1 inch, 3/4 inch or 1/2 inch fire protection sprinkler.

[0052] Use of the preferred straight internal thread permits preferred embodiments of the protected fire protection sprinkler assembly 10 to be rotatable about the axis X-X within the branch connector 200, preferably by hand, in any desired position while forming a proper fluid tight seal. More preferably, the internal thread portion 220 and the seal member 240 form a proper fluid tight seal engagement with the fire protection sprinkler 20 upon sufficient hand torque using preferred embodiments of the protective device 100. Threaded installation of the sprinkler 20 deforms the annular seal member 240 and provides a leak-proof fluid-tight seal between the sprinkler 20 and the branch connector 200. The connection between the branch connector 200 and the sprinkler 20 is sufficient to provide a fluid tight seal under a fluid pressure of up to 200 psi or more, for example, pressures of up to and including at least 175 psi.

[0053] The discharge or flow characteristics of the fire protection sprinkler 20, and, in particular, from the sprinkler body 32, is defined by the internal geometry of the sprinkler including its internal passageway, inlet and outlet (the orifice). Generally, the size of the sprinkler discharge orifice is defined by the nominal K- factor of a sprinkler. For a given sprinkler assembly, typically, the larger the K-factor, the larger the discharge orifice, and the smaller the K-factor, the smaller the discharge orifice. Nominal K-factors for sprinklers listed in the National Fire Protection Association Standard Publication, NFPA 13: Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems, can range from 1 to 30 [GPM/(psi.) ^1/2 ] and greater. NFPA 13 identifies the following nominal K-factors of 14 or greater: 14[GPM/(psi.) ^1,2 ] (“K14”); 16.8[GPM/(psi.) ^I/2 ] (“K16.8”); 19.6[GPM/(psi.) ^I/2 ] (“K19.6”); 22.4[GPM/(psi.) ^I/2 ] (“K22.4”); 25.2[GPM/(psi.) ^I/2 ] (“K25.2”) and 28.0[GPM/(psi.) ^I/2 ] (“K28”). Even larger nominal K-factors are also possible. As is known in the art, the K-factor of a sprinkler is defined as K = Q/P ^1/2 , where Q represents the flow rate (in gallons/min GPM) of water from the outlet of the internal passage through the sprinkler body and P represents the pressure (in pounds per square inch (psi.)) of water or firefighting fluid fed into the inlet end of the internal passageway through the sprinkler body. Accordingly, the designed performance of a sprinkler is a function of the supply of a minimum fluid pressure or flow.

[0054] The length L of the branch connector 200 is preferably defined between the outlet end 214 and a mid-point of the concave portion of the saddle-shaped inlet end 212. The overall length L of the branch connector between the inlet end 212 and the outlet end 214, preferably, ranges from 1 inch to 1-1/2 inch, in order to ensure the identified discharge or flow characteristics of the fire protection sprinkler, and, in particular, the sprinkler body 32, is achieved when the fire protection sprinkler 20 is installed in the branch connector 200. Moreover, the overall length L of the branch connector 200 preferably corresponds or varies with the outlet nominal diameter size. For example, for a nominal outlet diameter of 1 inch, the length L is preferably 1-1/4 inch, where the nominal outlet diameter is 3/4 inch, the length L is preferably 1-1/8 inch and where the nominal outlet diameter is 1/2 inch, the length L is preferably 1-1/16 inch.

[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.