Patent Application
20090126950
This invention relates generally to residential sprinklers, systems and methods of use. More specifically, the invention is directed to residential concealed flat plate sprinklers and their methods of use in residential sprinkler systems.
Residential automatic fire protection sprinklers are typically designed to specific performance criteria or standard that has been accepted by industry. The performance criteria establishes the minimum performance standards for a given sprinkler to be consider sufficient for use as a residential fire protection product. For example, Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL) “Standard for Safety for Residential Sprinklers for Fire Protection Service” (October 2003) (hereinafter “UL 1626”), which is incorporated herein in its entirety be reference thereto, is believed to be an accepted industry standard.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) also promulgates standards relating to residential fire protection such as, for example, (i) NFPA Standard 13 (2002) (hereinafter “NFPA 13”); (ii) NFPA Standard 13D (2002) (hereinafter “NFPA 13D); and (iii) NFPA Standard 13R (2002) (hereinafter “NFPA 13R”) (collectively “NFPA Standards”) each of which is incorporated in its entirety herein by reference thereto. In order for a residential sprinkler to be approved for installation under NFPA Standards, such sprinkler typically must pass various tests, for example, tests promulgated by UL under UL 1626, in order to be listed for use as a residential sprinkler. Specifically, UL 1626 generally requires a sprinkler, as described in Table 6.1 of Section 6, to deliver a minimum flow rate (gallons per minute or “gpm”) for a specified coverage area (square feet or “ft2”) so as to provide for a desired average density of at least 0.05 gpm/ft2. For instance, for a 16 ft.×16 ft. room size with a 256 ft2 coverage area, a residential sprinkler that can provide the minimum density in an optimum manner would utilize a flow of water of thirteen gallons per minute (13 gpm). Thus, 13 gpm is the minimum flow listing for a coverage area of 256 ft2. In addition to a sprinkler configuration providing the minimum density at the minimum flow listing, the sprinkler advantageously would achieve the minimum flow listing at the lowest possible pressure. The minimum flow rate tabulated in Table 6.1 can be used to calculate a predicted minimum fluid pressure needed to operate a sprinkler by virtue of a rated K-factor of the sprinkler. A rated K-factor of a sprinkler provides a coefficient of discharge of the flow passage of the sprinkler, is defined as follow:
where Q is the flow rate in GPM and p is the pressure in pounds per square inch gauge. Thus, for a rated K-factor of 4.9 and a minimum flow rate of 13 gpm, the residual or calculated minimum pressure is seven pounds per square inch (7 psi.).
In order for a sprinkler to pass actual fluid distribution tests as described in Sections 26 and 27 of UL 1626 however, the actual minimum pressure of the test sprinkler may differ from the calculated or predicted minimum pressure, which can be calculated using the given minimum flow rate of Table 6.1 in UL 1626 and the rated K-factor of the sprinkler. Further, the actual minimum fluid flow rate to pass these distribution tests of UL 1626 for a specified coverage area may even be higher than the tabulated minimum flow rate given in Table 6.1 of UL 1626. Consequently, any attempt to provide for a listed sprinkler (i.e., an operational sprinkler suitable for the protection of a dwelling unit) cannot be predicted by applications of a known formula to known residential sprinklers.
In order to provide an aesthetically appealing configuration of a sprinkler for use in a residence, the sprinkler may be configured to use a flat plate to conceal the sprinkler itself until the sprinkler is actuated. This type of sprinkler is known as a residential flat plate concealed sprinklers. It is believed that known residential flat plate concealed sprinklers that are configured for use in a pendent manner range in K-factor from 4.1 to 5.6 (gpm/psi1/2).
In order for a residential flat plate concealed sprinkler to operate, a two step operation occurs when a fire hazard is to be addressed. First, the cover of the concealed sprinkler must disengage from the sprinkler. Second, the sprinkler must operate to allow water to flow. Because of the two step operation of the residential flat plate concealed sprinkler, and that such residential sprinklers are typically fully recessed into a ceiling, residential flat plate concealed sprinklers have an increased flow rate above the minimum flow listings in order to successfully pass UL 1626 fire tests.
It is believe that known residential flat plate concealed sprinklers have been unable to successfully pass the UL 1626 test standard for a 16 ft.×16 ft. room size fire test at both the minimum flow rate (13 gpm) and the minimum operating pressure (7 psi). Furthermore, it is also believed that known residential flat plate concealed sprinklers have been unable to successfully achieve the minimum flow rates of seventeen gallons per minute (17 gpm.) for an 18 ft.×18 ft. room size and twenty gallons per minute for a 20 ft.×20 ft. room size in accordance with UL 1626.
A preferred embodiment of the present invention is believed to be the first residential automatic sprinkler with a flat plate that conceals the sprinkler to successfully complete UL 1626 distribution and fire testing with both minimum flow (13 gpm) and minimum pressure (7 psi) for an area as large as 16 ft.×16 ft. In addition, the sprinkler of the preferred embodiment is believe to be the first known sprinkler that has successfully completed distribution and fire tests in the 18 ft.×18 ft. and 20 ft.×20 ft. room sizes, with minimum flows of 17 gpm and 20 gpm respectively. More specifically, the sprinkler can provide a minimal flow of seventeen gallons per minute (17 gpm) in successful fluid distribution and fire tests for a 324 square feet area (18 ft.×18 ft.) at about twelve pounds per square inch (12 psi.), and further provide a minimal flow of twenty gallons per minute (20 gpm.) for a 400 square foot test area (20 ft.×20 ft.) at less than seventeen pounds per square inch and even more preferably at about 16.7 psi. The preferred embodiment utilizes a sprinkler with a nominal discharge coefficient (K Factor) of 4.9 gpm/psi1/2. Through the specific combination of a deflector and a projection cone geometry, the preferred embodiment of the sprinkler has achieved the specified residential listings for both flow and pressure.
One preferred embodiment provides a residential flat plate concealed sprinkler for the fire protection of an area ranging from about 144 square feet to about 400 square feet. The sprinkler preferably includes an outer housing having an inner surface defining a chamber and a body at least partially disposed within the chamber. The body preferably has an inlet and an outlet spaced along a longitudinal axis, the outlet having a minimum design fluid flow ranging from about thirteen gallons per minute to about twenty gallons per minute (13-20 gpm) and the inlet having a minimum design input fluid pressure ranging from about seven pounds per square inch to about seventeen pounds per square inch (7-17 psi.). The body further preferably includes an inner surface defining a passageway for communication between the inlet and the outlet. The at least one guide member has a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end is preferably coupled to the body and the distal end having telescopic relative movement relative to the outlet in direction parallel to the longitudinal axis. The sprinkler further preferably includes a deflector plate assembly for distributing a flow of fluid over the protected area. The deflector assembly is preferably coupled to the distal end of the at least one guide member so that the deflector has a first position distal of the outlet and a second position distal of the first position. The deflector assembly includes a plate member and a projection member coupled to the plate member to define a proximal surface substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis and spaced axially from the outlet and a distal surface distal of the proximal surface and orthogonal to the longitudinal axis. The distal surface preferably defines an oblong perimeter circumscribed about the longitudinal axis and further including a plurality of slots substantially equiradially spaced about the longitudinal axis. Each slot has a substantially straight portion initiating from the perimeter and extending radially toward the longitudinal axis to define a slot length and further having a slot width. The plurality of slots also further defines a first slot group having a first slot length and at least a second slot group having a second slot length smaller than the first slot length.
In another preferred embodiment, provided is a pendant concealed sprinkler that includes an outer housing and an inner housing coaxially aligned along a longitudinal axis. The sprinkler further includes a body having at least a portion disposed in the inner and outer housing. The body preferably has an inner surface defining a passageway including an inlet and an outlet spaced apart along the longitudinal axis and defining a K-factor of about 5. The sprinkler further preferably includes a closure assembly to occlude the outlet and a thermally responsive trigger element having a first state aligned with the longitudinal axis to support the closure assembly adjacent the outlet and a second state to displace the closure assembly from the outlet. The sprinkler further preferably provides a deflector assembly distal of the outlet. The deflector assembly preferably has a plurality of deflecting surfaces substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and a plurality of slots in at least one of the deflecting surfaces to provide a distribution of a fluid over a protection area a protection area ranging from about 144 square feet to about 400 square feet, the fluid distribution having a density of at least 0.05 gallons per minute per square foot (0.05 gpm/ft2) for a minimum operating pressure and a minimum operating fluid flow corresponding to the protection areas. The minimum operating pressures range from about seven pounds per square inch to about seventeen pounds per square inch (7-17 psi.) and the range of minimum operating fluid flows ranging from about thirteen gallons per minute to about twenty gallons per minute (13-20 gpm). The preferred sprinkler further includes a plate assembly having a cover plate and a thermally responsive fastener coupling the plate assembly to the outer housing such that the cover plate engages the deflector assembly and contains the deflector assembly within the outer housing.
In yet another preferred embodiment, a sprinkler preferably includes a body having an inner surface defining a passageway for carrying a fluid. The passageway includes an inlet and an outlet spaced apart along the longitudinal axis and defines a K-factor of about 5. The sprinkler also includes a closure assembly adjacent the outlet to occlude the outlet and a thermally responsive support means for maintaining the closure assembly adjacent the outlet. The preferred sprinkler also provides means for distributing a flow of fluid over a protection area ranging from about 144 square feet to about 400 square feet, the fluid distribution having a density of at least 0.05 gallons per minute per square foot (0.05 gpm/ft2) so as to define a range of minimum operating pressures ranging from about seven pounds per square inch to about seventeen pounds per square inch (7-17 psi.) and a range of minimum operating fluid flows ranging from about thirteen gallons per minute to about twenty gallons per minute (13-20 gpm). In addition, the sprinkler preferably includes a thermally responsive plate means for maintaining a minimum spacing between the outlet and the means for distributing.
Another embodiment according to the present invention provides a method of fire protecting an area with a sprinkler having a coverage area no greater than 256 square feet. The coverage area is preferably about 256 square feet and further be about 196 square feet or further in the alternative be about 144 square feet. The method includes discharging a fire fighting fluid at a flow rate of about thirteen gallons per minute (13 gpm) from a sprinkler body having a K-factor of about 5 and more preferably about 4.9. The method also includes distributing the fluid over the area at a fluid design density of about 0.05 gallons per minute per square foot (0.05 gpm/ft2). The method also preferably The method includes introducing the fluid to the body at an operating pressure of about seven pounds per square inch (7 psi.).
Another preferred embodiment provides a method of fire protecting an area with a sprinkler having a coverage area measuring greater than 256 square feet but no greater than 324 square feet. The method preferably includes discharging a fire fighting fluid at a flow rate of about seventeen gallons per minute (17 gpm) from a sprinkler body having a K-factor of about 5 and further distributing the fluid over the area at a fluid design density of at least 0.05 gallons per minute per square foot (0.05 gpm/ft2). Preferably the fluid is introduced to the sprinkler at an operating pressure of about twelve pounds per square inch (12 psi.).
In yet another alternative embodiment of the method, a method is provided for protecting an area having a sprinkler coverage area measuring greater than 324 square feet but no greater than 400 square feet. The method includes discharging a fire fighting fluid at a flow rate of about twenty gallons per minute (20 gpm) from a sprinkler body having a K-factor of about 5 and distributing the fluid over the area at a fluid design density of at least 0.05 gallons per minute per square foot (0.05 gpm/ft2). Preferably, the fluid is introduced to the body at an operating pressure of about seventeen pounds per square inch (17 psi.) and more preferably about 16.7 psi.
In yet another embodiment of any of the above described methods, distributing the discharged fluid includes distributing the fluid as per Section 26 of UL 1626 and applying the fluid over the coverage area such that the rate of application is at least 0.02 gallons per minute per square foot (0.02 gpm/ft2), wherein no more than four areas measuring one square foot have an application rate of at least 0.015 gallons per minute per square foot (0.05 gpm/ft2). Any of the above methods can further define a minimum sprinkler to sprinkler spacing of about eight feet (8 ft.).
Another preferred aspect of the present invention provides a residential sprinkler system that preferably includes a fluid supply source, a maximum coverage area in a residential dwelling, the coverage area being no greater than 256 square feet; and a residential sprinkler having a body with an inlet and an outlet and a K-factor rating of about 5 and more preferably about 4.9. The sprinkler is preferably coupled to the fluid supply source such that the supply provides a minimum operating pressure to the inlet at about seven pounds per square inch (7 psi.) and the outlet provides a discharge flow having a flow rate of about thirteen gallons per minute. The sprinkler preferably includes a deflector assembly to deflect the discharge flow and define a distribution pattern providing a fluid density over the coverage area of about 0.05 gallons per minute per square foot (0.05 gpm/ft2).
In yet another embodiment of the system preferably includes a maximum coverage area in a residential dwelling being greater than 256 square feet and less than about 324 square feet. The preferred system further includes a residential sprinkler having a body with an inlet and an outlet and a K-factor rating of about 5. The sprinkler being coupled to the fluid supply source such that the supply provides a minimum operating pressure to the inlet of about twelve pounds per square inch (12 psi), and the outlet provides a discharge flow having a flow rate of about seventeen gallons per minute (17 gpm).
In another alternative embodiment of the system, the maximum coverage area is preferably greater than about 324 square feet and less than about 400 square feet. The system further preferably includes at least one residential sprinkler having a body with an inlet and an outlet and a K-factor rating of about 5. The sprinkler is preferably coupled to the fluid supply source such that the supply provides a minimum operating pressure to the inlet of about seventeen pounds per square inch (17 psi), and the outlet provides a discharge flow having a flow rate of about twenty gallons per minute (20 gpm). The sprinkler includes a deflector assembly to deflect the discharge flow and define a distribution pattern the pattern providing a fluid density over the coverage area of at least 0.05 gallons per minute per square foot (0.05 gpm/ft2).
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.
Shown in
Referring to
The sprinkler 10 preferably includes a support cup or outer housing 14 disposed about the body 12. The outer housing 14 provides a chamber for housing the sprinkler operational components such as, for example, the trigger and deflector assemblies. Connected below the housing 14 is a detachable cover plate assembly 16 providing means to conceal the sprinkler components from view beneath the ceiling 200. The cover plate assembly 16 preferably includes a substantially flat plate 18 that presents a low profile with respect to the ceiling 200. The plate 18 can include decorative or textured surface treatment or coloring so as to aesthetically blend in or coordinate with the surrounding environment. In operation, a portion of the plate assembly 16 is configured to separate from the outer housing 12 and/or the operational components of the sprinkler 10 thereby allowing the sprinkler 10 to actuate and discharge a fire fighting fluid over the area beneath the ceiling 200.
A cross-sectional view of the sprinkler 10 is provided in
The sprinkler 10 is preferably embodied as a concealed sprinkler. Accordingly, preferably threadedly engaged with the outer threads 11 of the body 12 is the outer housing 14. The outer housing 14 preferably includes an interior peripheral edge defining a centralized bore 42. The body 12 can be disposed through the central bore 42 and the interior peripheral edge of the outer housing 14 can engage the outer threads 11 of the body 12 to couple the body and the housing to one another. The multi-flat portion 13 of the body 12 can be dimensioned so as to form a stop that engages an inner surface of the outer housing 14 to limit the axial engagement of the body 12 through the central bore 42 of the outer housing 14.
The inner surface of the outer housing 14 is preferably radially spaced from the longitudinal axis A-A to define a chamber 44 for preferably surrounding and housing the operational components of the sprinkler 10. The inner surface of the housing 14 can include a coupling mechanism 46 for coupling to the cover plate assembly 16. Preferably, the housing 14 includes a rolled thread 46a along the inner surface for engagement with a portion of the plate assembly 16 to couple the elements together.
Shown in
A cover plate member is attached to the retaining sleeve 48 such that it substantially conceals the chamber of the outer housing 14 thereby concealing the operational components of the sprinkler 10 such as, for example, the deflector assembly 42 as seen in
The operational components of the sprinkler 10 can individually and collectively define sprinkler performance, i.e. water distribution and compliance with known sprinkler standards such as, for example, the October 2003 edition of UL 1626. More preferably, the operational components of the sprinkler 10 provide for a heat sensitivity or thermal responsiveness along with water distribution characteristics that can effectively address a residential fire and thereby improve the chance for occupant to escape or be evacuated. The body 12 is an operational component having, as seen in
The sprinkler 10 is shown, in-part, in a non-actuated state, i.e., the outlet 26 is closed off by a closure assembly 28. The closure assembly 28 is preferably disposed adjacent the outlet 26 to occlude the passage way 22 thereby preventing discharge of fluid from the outlet. The closure assembly 28 preferably includes a plug 30 coupled to a washer 32 having a perimeter contiguous to the inner surface 20 of the body 12 forming the outlet 26. The washer 32 is preferably a Bellville type, Beryllium Nickel washer with a Teflon® coating, of about 0.02 inches. The plug 30 is preferably coupled to a seat member 34 by a compression screw or other fastener 36.
The closure assembly further includes a thermally responsive trigger assembly or lever 38 providing means for controlling displacement of the washer 32 from the outlet 26 to operate the sprinkler 10. More specifically, the lever 38 is preferably a fusible link assembly having two link halves held together by a solder link element 40 thereby maintaining the sprinkler 10 in a non-actuated state. When exposed to a sufficient level of heat, the solder element melts and the two link halves separate from one another so as to displace the closure assembly, operating the sprinkler 10 and permitting discharge of fluid from the outlet 26. Alternative closure assemblies 28 and thermal triggers 38 can be provided so long as the alternative construction adequately occludes the passageway 22 when the sprinkler is in an non-actuated state and is adequately thermally responsive to actuate the sprinkler when needed. The trigger assembly 38 is preferably configured such that the sprinkler 10 has a temperature rating of ranging from about 135° F. to about 170° and more preferably is about 160° F. A higher sprinkler temperature rating can provide additional flexibility in sprinkler selection over a range of installation configurations and system designs.
Distal of the outlet 26 is the deflector assembly 42 providing means for distributing a fluid discharge from the outlet 26 over an area below the outlet. The deflector assembly 42 preferably includes a deflector plate assembly 42a, one or more guide members 42b and an inner or guide member housing 42c disposed about a distal portion of the body 12. In
In one preferred embodiment, the inner housing 42c is disposed about a flange at the distal end 27 of body 12. The inner housing 42c preferably extends coaxially within the outer housing 14. The inner housing 42c includes an interior surface at least partially circumscribed about the longitudinal axis and to which one or more guide members 42b are secured. Preferably, the deflector assembly 42 includes a pair of elongated guide members 42b spaced parallel from one another about and extending distally along the direction of the longitudinal axis A-A preferably interior to the inner housing 42c. Each of the guide members 42b preferably includes a proximal end coupled to a portion of the interior of the inner housing 42c. Coupled to the distal ends of the guide members 42b is the deflector plate assembly 42a, thereby locating the deflector plate assembly 42a in a first position distal of the outlet 26. The guide members 42b are preferably telescoping members relative to the inner housing 42c, thus permitting the deflector plate assembly 42a to extend distally from the first position to a second position distal of the first.
The deflector plate assembly 42a is shown, in-part, in dashed line corresponding to the second or deployed position. In this preferred operational position, the deflector plate assembly 42a presents an upper surface 56 and an opposite lower surface 58, each substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis A-A for distributing a fluid discharge from the outlet 26. In particular, the upper surface 56 provides a distribution surface for distributing a minimum flow rate discharged from the outlet 26.
Operation of the sprinkler 10 provides that, upon exposure to a heat source, such as a fire, generating sufficient heat to melt the solder tabs 52, the plate 18 falls away from the retaining sleeve 48. The deflector assembly 42 then drops from its first or non-deployed position to a second or deployed position. The solder holding the fusible link 38 melts under the exposure to the increasing heat, the halves separate to actuate the sprinkler and displace the closure assembly. Upon displacement of the closure assembly, fluid discharges from the outlet 26 over the protection area.
Accordingly, the sprinkler 10 can be tested in accordance with UL 1626, Section 26 to identify an acceptable minimum operational flow rate of discharge from the sprinkler 10 capable of distributing a flow of fluid over a horizontal surface in a rectangular test area such as, for example schematically shown in
In addition, the sprinkler 10 can be tested in accordance with UL 1626, Section 27 to identify an acceptable level of fluid distribution from the sprinkler 10 capable of distributing a flow of fluid over a vertical surface in a rectangular test area such as, for example schematically shown in
WW=20%(D/P)
where:
It is believed that the various features of the sprinkler 10 and its operational components allow for compliance with UL 1626 at the minimal flow and pressures described above. The deflector plate assembly 42a and the upper surface 56 preferably includes or defines one or more of surfaces substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis. More preferably, the deflector plate assembly 42a includes, as seen for example in
One preferred embodiment of the deflector plate assembly 42a, as seen in
The projection member 60 is preferably centrally located with respect to the plate member 78 and aligned with the longitudinal axis A-A. As seen in
The central core 62 of the projection member 60 is preferably engaged with the plate member 78. More preferably, the plate member 78 preferably includes a central bore 80 disposed about the substantially cylindrical body of the core 62. The plate member 78 preferably includes at least two lateral bores 82a and 82b disposed about the central bore 80. More preferably, the lateral bores 82a and 82b are aligned with and laterally spaced outside the radially extending members 64 as more clearly seen in
The plate member 78 is preferably substantially oblong or oval in shape, preferably substantially disposed in a plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A-A and defined by orthogonal plate axes IVB-IVB and VIC-VIC, as seen in the plan view of
In one preferred embodiment of the plate member 78, a point along the defined arcuate edge 84 can further define a circle circumscribed about the longitudinal axis A-A. The defined straight edges 86 of the plate member 78 each further preferably define a chord length of the circle. Accordingly, the plate diameter defined by diametrically opposed points along arcuate edges 84 and merger axis IVB-IVB preferably ranges from about 1.25 inches to about 1.5 inches and is more preferably about 1.35 inches. Alternatively, the diameter defined by the plate member 78 can be a function of sprinkler height such the plate diameter to sprinkler height ratio ranges from about 0.5 to about 0.75 and is preferably about 0.70.
A preferred plate member 78 is shown in
The angled portions of the plate member 78 are preferably configured to provide compliance with the wall wetting requirements Section 27 of UL and 1626. Moreover of the angled portions of the plate member 78 are preferably configured to minimize water spray overthrow and thus provide compliance with operation cold-soldering test of Section 22 of UL 1626 where a first preferred sprinkler 10 is actuated adjacent to a unactuated second preferred sprinkler 10 located at about 8 feet from the actuated sprinkler 10. Specifically, the straight edges 86 of the plate member 78 of the first sprinkler 10 can be spaced parallel the straight edge 86 in the plate member 78 of the second sprinkler 10. To satisfy the requirements of the test, while the first sprinkler 10 is discharging fluid at 100 psig or more, the first sprinkler 10 cannot prevent the actuation of the second sprinkler 10 as the second sprinkler is being exposed to heat and flame, as provided for in Subsection 22.2 of UL 1626. At approximately 100 psig or greater, it is believed that the fluid flowing radially along the surfaces of the plate member 78 has sufficient velocity to produce a downward flow separation at the angled portion of the plate member 78 and straight edges 86. Although the plate member 78 is preferably shown with the straight edges 86 and angular portion, any surface irregularity, geometry or treatment can be incorporated into the plate member 78 provided the surface irregularity can cause flow separation at fluid pressure of 100 psig or greater so as to prevent wetting of adjacent sprinklers located 8 or more feet in the directions of the plane defined by the A-A and IVB-IVB axes without the diminishing the effectiveness of the fluid distribution pattern provided by the deflector assembly 42. Accordingly, the sprinkler 10 provides for a minimum sprinkler spacing of about eight feet. Maximum spacing between adjacent sprinkler is preferably equivalent to the length of the coverage area being covered by the sprinkler. Accordingly, where the sprinkler 10 is configured for a coverage areas of 16 ft.×16 ft., 18 ft.×18 ft., and 20 ft.×20 ft. the maximum spacing is respectively: 16 ft., 18 ft., and 20 ft.
Shown generally in
Any one of the slots 88 preferably includes a portion extending linearly so as to define a straight portion. The slot 88 can further include a non-linear portion, for example, defining a curve. More specifically, the spaced apart walls defining the slot 88 can curve along the slot length in a parallel fashion to define a curved slot. Alternatively, the walls defining the slot 88 can variably curve away and toward one another so as to substantially define an oblong shaped void in the plate member 78. Preferably, a portion of the walls defining the slot 88 curve relative to one another so as to define a circular bore or void along the slot 88. Accordingly, the slot 88 can be formed so as to include a linear portion and a non-linear portion in communication or continuous with the linear portion. Thus, the slot 88 can include a circular bore portion in communication with a straight portion. Moreover, the circular bore portion of the slot 88 can define a slot width that is greater than, or alternatively smaller than, the slot width of the straight portion. For example, as seen in
The preferred plate member 78 includes one or more pairs of diametrically opposed slots 88. More preferably, the plate member 78 includes one or more groups of diametrically opposed slots such as, for example, slot group 90, 92, 94 and 96. Each of the group of slots 90, 92, 94, 96 can vary from one another by varying any one of the previously described slot features. For example, the slot groups 90, 92, 94, 96 can each have a slot length Ls each defining a ratio relative to the maximum radius of the plate member 78. In one preferred embodiment of the plate member 78, for example each of the first group of slots 90 defines a first ratio of about 0.25, each of the second group of slots 92 defining a second ratio of about 0.41, each of the third group of slots 94 defining a third ratio of about 0.23, and the fourth group of slots each defining a fourth ratio of about 0.29. Additional features may distinguish the groups of slots where for example, the third group of slots 94 includes a circular bore portion as described above. Any given group of slots is preferably periodically radially disposed about the plate member 78. The angular spacing between slots can range from about 15° to about 120° depending upon the number slots in the group and/or the desired spacing relative to the major axis IVB-IVB and minor axis VIC-VIC. More preferably, the groups of slots are further evenly interposed among one another such that a slot of a one group and a slot of another group are angularly spaced apart by about fifteen degrees (15°).
The various components of the sprinkler 10 including the body 12, the outer housing 14, the cover plate assembly 16, and the components of the deflector assembly can be made from any material capable of being machined, shaped, formed or fabricated provided the material can provide the requisite thermal responsiveness and fluid distribution characteristics. Preferably, materials for construction of the sprinkler components include brass, bronze, nickel, copper, steel, stainless steel or any combination thereof.
Accordingly, the preferred deflector plate assembly 42a and its features as described above can, alone or in combination with the remainder of the deflector assembly 42 and/or the outer housing 14 can be part of the means for distributing fluid in a residential dwelling unit so that the sprinkler 10 is able to meet testing requirements of UL 1626. In the horizontal distribution test, UL 1626, Section 26 requires placing the selected sprinkler 10 over a protective area sub-divided into four quadrants with the sprinkler 100 placed in the center of the quadrants I-IV. A detailed layout of one quadrant is illustrated in
In accordance with the test, water or another suitable fire fighting fluid is supplied to the selected sprinkler 10 at a desired rate with the sprinkler 10 being tested via a one-inch internal diameter pipe with a T-fitting having an outlet at substantially the same internal diameter as the inlet 24 of the selected sprinkler 100. The duration of the test is twenty-minutes and at the completion of the test, the water collected by the collection pan CP (as delineated by the square like grid) is measured to determine if the amount deposited complies with the minimum density requirement for each coverage area.
As promulgated by Section 27 of UL 1626, a vertical fluid distribution test provides for an arrangement to determine the vertical fluid distribution of any sprinkler suitable for the protection of a dwelling unit. In the test arrangement for the residential pendent sprinkler 100, the sprinkler 100 is placed over a center of a coverage area CA at one-half the coverage length CL or width CW (
As utilized in this test, the deflector assembly 42 including the slots 88 of the plate member 78 is believed to allow the break up of the flow stream extending from the outlet 26 perpendicular to the frame arms 14 in order to meet a maximum 20-foot spacing between sprinklers in the operational test of Section 22 of UL 1626. The preferred plate member 78 in combination with the projection member 60 is believed to provide for a sufficient fluid distribution over the test coverage area perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A-A. Further, it is believed that the features described above in relation to the deflector assembly 42 allows the sprinkler 10 to provide an operating flow rate of thirteen gallons per minute (13 gpm) of water at an operating pressure of about seven pounds per square inch gauge (7 psig.) fed to the inlet 26 so that a density of at least 0.05 gpm/ft2 of fluid is provided to a coverage area of 16 feet by 16 feet under at least the horizontal distribution test of UL 1626.
Moreover, the above described features provide a sprinkler performance in the preferred sprinkler 10 having a minimal operating flow of seventeen gallons per minute (17 gpm) in a successful fluid distribution and fire tests for a 324 square feet area (18 ft.×18 ft.), and a minimal operating flow of twenty gallons per minute (20 gpm) for a 400 square foot test area (20 ft.×20 ft.). More preferably, the sprinkler 10 can provide a minimal flow of seventeen gallons per minute (17 gpm) in successful fluid distribution and fire tests for a 324 square feet area (18 ft.×18 ft.) at an operating pressure of about twelve pounds per square inch (12 psi.), and further provide a minimal flow of twenty gallons per minute (20 gpm.) for a 400 square foot test area (20 ft.×20 ft.) at less than seventeen pounds per square inch and even more preferably at an operating pressure of about 16.7 psi.
Besides the above described fluid distribution tests, actual fire tests can also be performed in accordance with Section 28 of UL 1626 for the preferred embodiments. In particular, a fire test can be performed with sprinkler 10 to limit the temperature in a location of the test area so as to satisfy the criteria of Section 28.1 of UL 1626. More specifically, a test area can be constructed with the preferred sprinklers 10 installed in accordance with Section 28.2 of UL 1626. Actual fire tests conducted with sprinkler 10 can limit temperatures for each rated spacing as specified by the installation requirements having no more than two sprinklers 10 operate, such that: (i) the maximum temperature three inches below the ceiling at the tested locations does not exceed 600° F. (316° C.); (ii) the maximum temperature five and one-quarter feet (5¼ ft.) above the floor shall not exceed 200° F. nor exceed 130° F. for more than any continuous two minute period; and (iii) the maximum ceiling temperature ¼ inch behind the finished ceiling surface shall not exceed 500° F. (260° C.).
As a preferably concealed pendent sprinkler, the sprinkler 10 provides for as much vertical adjustment ranging from about ¼ inch to about ¾ inch and preferably about ½ inch when installing the sprinkler in a sprinkler system 100 relative to a fixed pipe drop. This vertical adjustment can reduce the accuracy to which fixed pipe drops of system 100 must be cut to ensure a proper installation.
Finally, because the preferred embodiments of the sprinkler 100 are able to pass all of the performance tests required by UL 1626, the preferred embodiments are able to be listed by a listing authority, such as, for example, UL, for design and installation as a residential fire sprinkler, as defined in Section 3.6.2.10 of NFPA 13. The above described features of the preferred embodiment of the sprinkler 10 can, in a residential fire protection system, as per NFPA 13, 13D and 13R, provide an optimized fire protection at lower minimum design pressures for design protection area of 144 square feet or greater. Consequently, at least the deflector assembly 42 alone or in combination with the other operational components of the sprinkler 10, preferably provides the means for distributing fluid over a coverage area of a residential dwelling unit. Thus, the sprinkler 10 can be installed in a preferably wet residential sprinkler system in accordance with the NFPA Standards to provide a suitable fluid density over a maximum coverage area of 256 square feet or less in which the sprinkler 10 has a minimum discharge flow rate of about thirteen gallons per minute (13 gpm) and a minimum design or an operating pressure of about seven pounds per square inch delivered to the sprinkler. In addition, the preferred sprinkler 10 can be installed in a residential sprinkler system for a maximum coverage area of about 324 square feet, given that the sprinkler 10 can deliver a minimum flow rate of about seventeen gallons per minute (17 gpm) at a minimum design pressure of about twelve pounds per square inch (12 psi) and further provide for a maximum coverage area of about four hundred square feet (400 ft.2) given that the sprinkler 10 can deliver a minimum flow rate of about twenty gallons per minute (20 gpm) at a minimum design pressure of about seventeen pounds per square inch (17 psi). More specifically, with the lower minimum operating design pressures, the preferred embodiments can be utilized in the design of fire protection system for coverage area of 324 square feet or greater at approximately a fifteen percent lower design pressure than known residential fire sprinklers. Accordingly, the sprinkler 10 provides a preferred device and method for protecting a coverage area that can range from about 144 square feet to about 400 square feet by introducing a fire fighting fluid to the sprinkler body 12 at a minimum operating pressure ranging from about seven pounds per square inch to about seventeen pounds per square inch (7-17 psi). The preferred device and method further provide for discharging the fluid from the sprinkler body 12 at a flow rate ranging from about thirteen gallons per minute to about 20 gallons per minute (13-20 gpm) and distributing the fluid over the coverage area at a density of about 0.05 gallons per minute per square foot (0.05 gpm/ft2).
One preferred embodiment of the sprinkler 10 is shown and described in Tyco Fire & Building Product Data Sheet Series LFII Residential Concealed Pendent Sprinklers, Flat Plate 4.9 K (January 2006) which is incorporated in its entirety herein by reference thereto. Shown below is a tabulated summary of the minimum flow and residual pressures for the preferred sprinkler having a 160° F. (71° C.) temperature rating for various coverage areas. In addition, the preferred sprinkler can provide for a maximum working pressure of about 175 pounds per square inch (175 psi.)
Table 1 provides for various maximum coverage areas for the preferred sprinkler 10 and further provides preferred minimal flow rates and operating fluid pressure. The provided minimal flow rates and operating pressures can also be used for a sprinkler 10 used to protect a coverage area having dimensions less than or between those indicated so as to ensure adequate distribution density for the actual coverage area.
While the present invention has been disclosed with reference to certain preferred embodiments, numerous modifications, alterations, and changes to the described embodiments are possible without departing from the sphere and scope of the present invention, as described herein. Accordingly, it is intended that the present invention not be limited to the described embodiments, but that it have the full scope defined by the language of the following claims, and equivalents thereof.
This application claims benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/686,971 filed Jun. 3, 2005 which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.
| Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind | 371c Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/US2006/021682 | 6/5/2006 | WO | 00 | 7/31/2008 |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60686971 | Jun 2005 | US |
