Patent Publication Number: US-2023158350-A1

Title: Protected Branch Connector Assembly For Fire Protection Systems

Description:
PRIORITY DATA &amp; INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE 
     This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/281,443, filed on Nov. 19, 2021, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to protection devices for piping of fire protection systems. In particular, the present invention relates to a protective device for protecting a connection fitting to maintain the integrity of an internal seal. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Fire protection devices, such as, for example, sprinklers and/or nozzles, and systems that employ the fire protection devices are used, for example, in the protection of storage commodities and occupancies. Fire protection systems include a network of pipes connected to a firefighting fluid supply and installed in relation to the storage commodity or occupancy. The piping network includes one or more branch lines coupled to a cross-main which is connected to the firefighting fluid supply by a vertical piping riser to supply the branch line(s) with the firefighting fluid. The fire protection devices are connected to the branch lines in an appropriate orientation and at an appropriate spacing. To connect the fire protection devices 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 connection to the pipe header and an opposite outlet end with a tapered threaded end for connection of a fire protection device. In order to form a fluid tight seal between the threadedly engaged connector and the fire protection device, a sealing tape or putty is applied to the thread of the fire protection device. 
     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. Pat. Nos. 8,297,663 and 10,744,527, and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2019/0175968, show and describe connectors or adapters for connecting a fire protection device to a pipe header. Alternatively, PCT Patent Publication Number WO 2022/178179 shows and describes branch connectors for connecting a fire protection device in which the branch connectors are secured to a pipe header to provide a piping interconnection. Each of these known connectors use an internal straight thread at the outlet to connect the thread of the fire protection device, which allows the fire protection device to be placed in a desired rotational orientation without the interference of the thread engagement. Typically, the fire protection device includes a tapered thread; however, it may include a straight thread. To form a fluid tight seal between the connector and the fire protection device, each of the connectors employ an internal annular seal member. The fire protection device is then threaded into the connector and sufficiently torqued to form the fluid tight connection by compression of the internal annular sealing member. However, formation of the fluid tight seal between the connector and the fire protection device will be inhibited if the internal annular seal is omitted from the connector or improperly located within the connector, and/or the internal annular seal is damaged and/or covered with dirt and/or debris. 
     Thus, in order to form an effective fluid tight seal between the connector and the fire protection device, there is a need, prior to installation of the fire protection device, to have the capability to readily determine if the internal annular seal is properly located within the connector, to prevent damage to the internal annular seal, and/or to inhibit dirt and debris from entering the connector that could interfere with a sealing surface of the internal annular seal. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     Preferred embodiments of a preferred protective device provide a protected branch connector assembly for a supply pipe of a fire protection device, such as, a fire protection sprinkler and/or nozzle. The protected branch connector assembly includes a tubular member having a first terminal end surface defining an inlet opening, a second terminal end surface defining an outlet opening, and an internal passageway extending from the inlet opening to the outlet opening along a central longitudinal axis with an internal seal chamber. An annular seal member is disposed within the internal seal chamber and defines a seated orientation circumscribed about the central axis. The annular seal member has a first confronting surface confronting the inlet opening and a second confronting surface opposite the first confronting surface and confronting the outlet opening. A preferred protective device of the assembly includes a plug body having a first end and a second end coaxially spaced apart from one another along a central body axis. The plug body is coaxially inserted into the outlet opening of the tubular member with the second end, preferably, in surface contact with the second confronting surface of the seal member. 
     Preferred embodiments of the protected branch connector assembly locate the plug body, and, preferably the first end of the plug body as an indicator that defines at least one indicative relationship between the protective device and the tubular member to indicate that the annular seal member is within the internal chamber in the seated orientation. For example, the plug body of the protective device is configured such that when the plug body is inserted into the outlet opening of the tubular member, the first end of the plug body is aligned with, and preferably flush with, the second terminal end surface of the tubular body to provide at least one indicator that defines at least one indicative relationship between the protective device and the tubular member that indicates the annular seal member is within the internal seal chamber in the seated orientation. In addition, and/or alternatively, at least one indicator is preferably coupled, affixed or integrally formed with the first end of the plug body and axially spaced from the second terminal end surface of the tubular member to define a gap and spaced relationship therebetween that defines at least one indicative relationship between the protective device and the tubular member that indicates the annular seal member is within the internal chamber in the seated orientation. Alternatively, at least one indicator is preferably coupled, affixed or integrally formed with the first end of the plug body and is in contact and flush with the second terminal end surface of the tubular member to define at least one indicative relationship between the protective device and the tubular member that indicates the annular seal member is within the internal seal chamber in the seated orientation. Thus, the orientation of the first end of the plug body and the second terminal surface of the tubular body, and/or the gap or the contact between the at least one indicator and the second terminal end of the tubular member provides a readily discernably visual indicator that the annular seal member is within the internal seal chamber in the seated orientation. 
     A preferred method of protecting a fire protection pipe assembly includes, inserting a protective device into an outlet opening of a branch connector of the fire protection pipe assembly and indicating that an internal seal member is in a seated orientation within an internal seal chamber of the branch connector. The indicating is achieved by defining a dimensional relationship between the protective device and the branch connector. An alternate preferred method of protecting a fire protection pipe assembly includes, inserting a protective device into an outlet opening of a branch connector of the fire protection pipe assembly and indicating an internal seal member is missing from an internal seal chamber of the branch connector with an unretained engagement between the protective device and the branch connector. The indicating is also achieved by defining a dimensional relationship between the protective device and the branch connector. 
     A preferred protection device for use in the assembly and method includes a body with an insertion edge circumscribed about a central axis and a trailing edge circumscribed about the central axis. An indicator is preferably affixed, formed with or defined by the trailing edge. Preferred embodiments of the body include a base centered about the central axis defining the insertion edge with a peripheral wall circumscribed about the base and the central axis. The peripheral wall has an edge circumscribed about the central device axis defining the trailing edge that is spaced from the base to define an open end of the body. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS 
       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. 
         FIG.  1    is an illustrative exploded view of a fire protection device, such as, a sprinkler and/or a nozzle, installed in a preferred embodiment of a supply pipe header. 
         FIG.  2 A  is an illustrative exploded perspective view of one embodiment of a protected branch connector assembly having a first preferred embodiment of a protective device. 
         FIG.  2 B  is a perspective view of the protected branch connector assembly of  FIG.  2 A . 
         FIG.  2 C  is a cross-sectional view of the protected branch connector assembly of  FIG.  2 A . 
         FIG.  2 D  is an illustrative cross-sectional view of the protected branch connector assembly of  FIG.  2 A  with the protective device being removed. 
         FIG.  3 A  is an illustrative cross-sectional view of the protected branch connector assembly of  FIG.  2 A  with the protective device indicating a missing internal seal. 
         FIG.  3 B  is an illustrative cross-sectional view of the protected branch connector assembly of  FIG.  2 A  with the protective device indicating the internal seal is not properly seated. 
         FIG.  4 A  is an illustrative exploded perspective view of one embodiment of a protected branch connector assembly having another preferred embodiment of a protective device. 
         FIG.  4 B  is a perspective view of the protected branch connector assembly of  FIG.  4 A . 
         FIG.  4 C  is a cross-sectional view of the protected branch connector assembly of  FIG.  4 A . 
         FIG.  4 D  is an illustrative cross-sectional view of the protected branch connector assembly of  FIG.  4 A  with the protective device being removed. 
         FIG.  5 A  is an illustrative exploded perspective view of one embodiment of a protected branch connector assembly having yet another preferred embodiment of a protective device. 
         FIG.  5 B  is a perspective view of the protected branch connector assembly of  FIG.  5 A . 
         FIG.  5 C  is a cross-sectional view of the protected branch connector assembly of  FIG.  5 A . 
         FIG.  5 D  is an illustrative cross-sectional view of the protected branch connector assembly of  FIG.  5 A  with the protective device being removed. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Shown in  FIG.  1    is an exploded view of a fire protection device, for example, a fire protection sprinkler  10 , for installation in an open preferred branch connector  200  of a fluid supply pipe header  300 . Upon installation, the sprinkler  10  forms a fluid tight sealed connection with the branch connector  200 . Firefighting fluid within the header  300  flows through the branch connector  200  to the fire protection sprinkler  10 . The branch connector  200  generally includes a tubular member  202  having a first terminal end surface  204  defining an inlet opening  206  through which fluid flows from the fluid supply pipe of the header  300 . Internally, the preferred branch connector  200  includes an annular seal member  250  that forms a fluid tight sealed engagement with the tubular housing of the branch connector  200  and the installed sprinkler  10 .  FIG.  1    shows a single branch connector  200  of the header  300 , but it should be understood that the pipe header  300  can include an array of branch connectors  200 , each with an internal seal member  250  for fluid tight engagement with a sprinkler  10 . Further descriptions of the relationship of the fire protection sprinkler  10 , the branch connector  200 , and the fluid supply header  300  are provided in PCT Patent Publication Number WO 2022/178179, which hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
     In order to protect the branch connector(s)  200  and maintain the integrity of the seal  250  prior to installation of the sprinkler  10 , a preferred embodiment of a protective device is inserted into the outlet opening of the branch connector  200 . Installed, preferred embodiments of the protective device protect the header  300 , branch connector  200  and/or seal member  250  by closing off the outlet opening of the branch connector and minimizing its exposure to dirt and debris during storage, transport, or installation of the pipe header  300  and/or when awaiting installation of a sprinkler  10 . In particular, the protective device inhibits damage to the seal member  250  and, moreover, preferred embodiments of the protective device provide or define one or more visual indicators to indicate that the annular seal member  250  is installed within the branch connector and more preferably indicate that the seal member  250  is properly installed and oriented in the branch connector  200 . Additionally, preferred embodiments of the protective device are configured to be removed, preferably by hand or hand tool, to expose the outlet opening of the branch connector  200  for receipt of a fire protection sprinkler  10 . 
     Shown in  FIGS.  2 A- 2 C  is one embodiment of a protected branch connector assembly  1000  with a first preferred embodiment of a protective device  100  installed in a branch connector  200  connected to a pipe header  300 . The branch connector  200  includes a second terminal end surface  208  defining an outlet opening  210  for temporary receipt of the protective device  100 ; and in a sprinkler system installation, for receipt of the sprinkler  10 . The second terminal end surface  208  is preferably axially spaced from the first terminal end surface  204  to define an internal passageway or conduit  212  of the tubular member extending from the inlet opening  206  to the outlet opening  210  along a central longitudinal axis X-X. Formed along the internal passageway  212  of the branch connector  200  is an internal seal chamber  214  formed between the inlet and outlet openings  206 ,  210  for housing the internal seal member  250 . Although the branch connector  200  and tubular member  202  is shown as a linear fitting it should be understood that the tubular member  202  could be formed as an elbow or formed as a tee-fitting provided the outlet opening  210  and internal seal chamber  214  are coaxially aligned for receipt of preferred embodiments of a protective device in a manner as described herein. 
     With specific reference to  FIG.  2 A , one manner of preferred forming the protected assembly  1000  includes connecting the branch connector  200  to the fluid pipe header  300 . The first terminal end  204  of the tubular member  202  is preferably saddle-shaped for a welded connection to the pipe header  300 . With the tubular member  202  connected, the annular seal member  250  is inserted and disposed within the internal seal chamber  214 . The seal member  250  includes a first confronting surface  252  and a second confronting surface  254  axially spaced along the preferably central seal axis opposite one another about the annular seal member  250 . When properly installed, the seal member  250  preferably defines a preferred seated orientation circumscribed about the central axis X-X with the seal axis parallel and preferably coaxially aligned with the central axis of the branch connector  200 . Moreover, in the preferred seated orientation, the first confronting surface  252  confronts the inlet opening  204  and the second confronting surface  254  confronts the outlet opening  210 . 
     The preferred protective device  100  is then subsequently inserted into the outlet opening  210 . The device  100  forms a preferred frictional fit therein to remain within the opening  210  and the internal conduit  212  to prevent dirt or debris from entering the tubular member  202  of the branch connector  200 . The frictional fit sufficiently retains and secures the device  100  within the outlet opening  210  against dislodgement from vibration or inadvertent impact. Moreover, the frictional fit preferably can be overcome by manually leveraging, pulling or prying the device  100  from the outlet  210  by hand or hand tool. In one preferred aspect, the outer surface of the inserted portion of the device is preferably 0.010-0.015 inch greater that the internal dimension of the outlet opening  210  provided by the internal threads  220  to form the desired frictional fit. 
     Once inserted, the preferred protective device  100  defines one or more dimensional relationships with the branch connector  200  to provide one or more indicators as to whether or not the seal member  250  is installed and/or properly in a seated orientation. The device  100  is preferably formed from a polymer or plastic material such as, for example, polyethylene and formed by molding such as, for example, injection molding. Preferred embodiments of the device  100  include a plug body  102  having a first end  104  and a second end  106  coaxially spaced apart from one another along a central body axis. The plug body  102  is the portion of the device  100  coaxially inserted into the outlet opening  210  of the tubular member  202  with the second end  106  of the body  102  coming into surface contact engagement with the seal member  250 . In preferred embodiments of the assembly  1000 , the second end of the body  106  is brought into surface contact engagement with the second confronting surface  254  of the seal member  250 . With the second end  106  in surface contact engagement with the seal member  250 , the first end  104  of the plug body  102  is preferably flush with the outlet opening  210  of the tubular member  202  to define one preferred indicative relationship between the device  100  and the tubular member  202  indicating that the annular seal member  250  is within the internal chamber  214  in the desired seated orientation. 
     Alternatively to forming a frictional fit between the tubular member  202  and the protective device  100 , an alternate embodiment of the assembly  1000  retains the protective device  100  within the tubular member  202  by the surface contact engagement between the second end  106  of the plug body  102  of the device  100  and the seal member  250 . More particularly, the second end  106  of the plug body  102  forms a surface engagement contact with an inner surface of the annular seal member  250  between the confronting surfaces  252 ,  254 , that is sufficient to retain and secure the protective device  100  within the tubular member  202  of the branch connector  200 . In order to provide the surface engagement, the peripheral wall  108  is sized to be located within the seal member  250 . The peripheral wall  108  is preferably a member with a uniform width so that the second end  106  of the plug body  102  is sized to engage one or more of the surfaces of the seal member  250 . Alternatively, the peripheral wall  108  is provided with a varying width sized to engage one or more of the surfaces of the seal member  250 . For example, the second end  106  of the plug body  102  has a width that is less than a width of the first end  104  of the plug body  102 , and the peripheral wall  108  has one or more transition surfaces, preferably, perpendicular to the axis of the plug body  102 , between the first end  104  and the second end  106 . When the second end  106  of the plug body engages one or more surfaces of the seal member  250 , the one or more transition surfaces can contact or be spaced from surfaces of the seal member  250 . Additionally, the second end  104  of the plug body  102  can also have a configuration, such as, projections, prongs, barbs, and/or hooks, to enhance gription of the seal member  250 . Thus, failure to retain the device  100  within the tubular member  202  preferably indicates the absence of the seal member  250  within the tubular member  202 . Accordingly, if the assembly was oriented such that the protective device  100  releasably falls out of the tubular member under the force of gravity, such an occurrence could indicate the absence of the required annular seal member  250 . To facilitate release of the protective device  100  and its indicative relationship with the tubular member  202 , the body  102  would be preferably sized so as to be radially spaced inward of the inner conduit  212  of the tubular member  202 . 
     The plug body  102  is preferably formed as a cup in which the second end  106  is a preferably closed or solid planar surface for blocking the internal conduit  212  of the branch connector  200  from dirt or debris. The first end  104  of the plug body  102  is preferably open ended centered about the device axis and axially spaced from the second end  106 . In the preferred cup configuration of the plug body  102 , a peripheral wall  108  extends between the ends  104 ,  106  and circumscribes the device axis. As described herein, the preferred embodiments of the protective device  100  are preferably removable from the branch connector  200  by hand or hand tool. The plug body  102  of the protective device can include a slit  105  as seen in the device  100  to provide some pliability or relief in installing or removing the plug body  102  from the outlet opening  210  of the tubular member  202 . The slit  105  can also facilitate formation of the protective device  100  by providing a relief to assist removal from a mold when the device  100  is formed from a polymer or plastic material. 
     Additionally, the device  100  includes at least one indicator  110 , and more preferably more than one indicator  110 , coupled, affixed to or formed with the first end  104 . In the preferred connector branch connector assembly  1000  shown, the indicator  110  of the inserted device  100  is axially spaced from the second terminal end surface  208  of the tubular member  202  to define a gap G therebetween, as seen in  FIG.  2 C , that is an indicative relationship between the indicator  110  and the tubular member  202  of the branch connector  200  to indicate that the internal annular seal member  250  is within the tubular member  202  and in the preferred seated orientation within the internal chamber  214 . The gap G is a visible gap, so that an installer of the protective device  100  can visibly confirm that the protected branch connector  1000  is assembled with the required seal member  250 . 
     In another preferred aspect, the device  100  provides at least two-dimensional relationships between the protective device  100  and the tubular member  202  to indicate that the seal member  250  is in the desired seated orientation. Preferred embodiments of the protective device  100  includes the insertable plug body  102  in which the second end  106  defines an insertion edge circumscribed about the central device axis with the first end  104  defining a trailing edge circumscribed about the central axis with an indicator  110  affixed to and axially spaced from the trailing edge  104 . Accordingly, in preferred embodiments of the device  100 , the indicator  110  is formed axially spaced from the first end or trailing edge  104  of the plug body  102  by a distance preferably equal to the gap distance G. Thus, in the preferred protected assembly  1000  with the indicator  110  axially spaced from the second terminal end surface  208 , the first end or trailing edge  104  of the plug body  102  is preferably flush with the outlet opening  210  of the tubular member  202  to define a second preferred indicative relationship between the indicator  110  and the tubular member  202  indicating that the annular seal member  250  is within the internal chamber  214  in the desired seated orientation. Accordingly, in one preferred aspect of the protective device  100 , the plug body  102  has an axial distance between the first end  104  and the second end  106  that is preferably equal to the axial distance between the outlet opening  210  and the second confronting surface  254  of the seal member  250 . The internal chamber  214  is preferably formed at the end of the internal thread  220  formed along the internal conduit  212  proximate the outlet opening  210 . Therefore, in another preferred aspect of the plug body  102 , the axial distance between the first end  104  and the second end  106  is preferably equal to the axial length of the internal thread  220  of the tubular member  202 . Moreover, the width or diameter of the plug body  102  is preferably 0.010-0.015 inch greater the internal diameter of the thread dimension of the outlet opening  210  to form the desired frictional fit. 
     Shown in  FIG.  2 C  is a cross-sectional view of the protected assembly  1000  in which the one indicator  110  of the protective device  100  includes a first portion or segment  110   a  extending axially from the first end  104  of the plug body  102  parallel to the peripheral wall  108  and central axis of the plug body  102 . The preferred indicator  110  also includes a second portion or segment  110   b  that preferably extends orthogonally with respect to the first portion  110   a  of the indicator and radially outward with respect to the plug body axis and over the second terminal end surface  208  of the tubular member  200 . In the preferred protected assembly  1000  shown, the gap G is defined between the second portion  110   b  of the indicator  110  and the second end terminal end surface  208  of the tubular member  202 . Combined with the first end  104  of the plug body  102 , which is open-ended, flush with the outlet opening  210 , the second portion  110   b  indicates that the seal member  250  is in the seated orientation. 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  3 A- 3 B , the device  100  is illustratively shown that the seal member is not within the seated orientation. More particularly, the second portion  110   b  of the indicator  110  in  FIG.  3 A  is shown in surface contact with the second terminal end surface  208  of the tubular member  202  to indicate that the seal member  250  is missing from the assembly. In  FIG.  3 B , the trailing edge  104  of the preferred open-ended plug body  102  is out of plane with the outlet opening  210  of the tubular member to indicate that the seal member  250  is not properly seated within the internal chamber  214  of the tubular member  202 . 
     In alternate embodiments of the assembly  1000  in which the radially extending segment forming the indicator  110  extends directly from the plug body  102 , for example from the first end  104  of the body  102 , the radially extending segment of the indicator  110  can come into contact with the tubular end surface  208 . Such an indicator  110  in combination with the first end  104  flush with the outlet opening  210 , could provide for an alternate indicative relationship indicating that the seal member  250  is in the proper seated orientation. 
     In all preferred embodiments of the protected assembly  1000  described herein, the protective device  100  is removable, preferably by hand, to expose the outlet opening  210  for receipt of a fire protection sprinkler  10 . In preferred embodiments of the device  100 , the indicator  110  provides for a lever that can be used to pull the protected device out of the tubular member  202 . With reference again to  FIG.  2 C , another preferred aspect of the protected assembly  1000 , the indicator  110  includes a third portion  110   c  extending orthogonally from the second portion  110   b  in a direction parallel to the central device axis from the first end  104  toward the second end  106  of the protective device  100 . In the device  100 , the first and second portions  110   a ,  110   b  of the indicator  110  preferably forms a hinge connection between the third portion  110   c  and the plug body  102  to define a preferred lever for removal of the protective device  100  from the tubular member  202  as illustrated in  FIG.  2 D . In one preferred embodiment of the device  100 , the third portion  110   c  can include or be formed with an annular ring  112 . With reference again to  FIGS.  2 A and  2 B , in the protected branch connector assembly  1000 , the annular ring  112  has a central axis that preferably extends perpendicular to the central axis X-X when the second end  106  of the plug body  102  is inserted in the tubular member  202  and in surface contact with the second confronting surface  254  of the seal member  250 . 
     In the assembly  1000  of  FIGS.  2 A- 2 D , the protective device  100  includes a single indicator  110 . In alternate embodiments of the protected assembly  1000   a ,  1000   b , as shown for example in  FIGS.  4 A- 4 D and  5 A- 5 D  without the pipe header  300  for simplification, the protection device  100 ′,  100 ″ includes more than one indicator  110 . More preferably as shown, the protective devices  100 ′,  100 ″ preferably includes a pair of indicators  110  diametrically opposed from one another about the plug body  102 . Each of the indicators  110  preferably includes the first axially extending portion or segment  110   a  and the radially extending portion or segment  110   b . Alternatively, the indicators can be formed by radially extending segments  110   b  that extend from the plug body  102  preferably at the first end  104 . The protective device again preferably includes an annular ring portion  112 ′ that is affixed to one or both of the indicators. However, in these preferred embodiments of the protective device  100 ′,  100 ″, the annular ring  112 ′ circumscribes the central device axis and in the assembly  1000   a ,  1000   b , the annular ring  112 ′ circumscribes the central longitudinal axis X-X. With the ring  112 ′ integrally formed with the second portion  110   b  of one or both of the indicators  110 , the ring  112 ′ can also be spaced from the second terminal end surface  208  to define the preferred gap G in the assembly  1000   a  and provide visual verification that the seal member  250  is in the desired seated orientation within the tubular member  202 . Alternatively, in the protected assembly  1000 , the device  100 , and, in particular, the plug body  102  can be configured so that when it is inserted in the tubular member  202  and is retained by the internal thread  220  of the tubular member  202  and/or the seal member  250 , the ring  112 ′ comes into contact with the second terminal end surface  208  to provide an alternative visual verification that the seal member  250  is in the desired seated orientation within the tubular member  202 . 
     With specific reference to  FIGS.  4 A- 4 D , the annular ring  112 ′ is not only an indicator for the seal member  250 , the ring  112 ′ also preferably provides an element, edge or lip of the device  100 ′ that can be grasped by a sprinkler installer to remove the protective device  100 ′ from the branch connector  200  to expose the outlet opening  210  for installation of a sprinkler  10  as illustrated in  FIG.  4 D . Because the annular ring  112 ′ is, preferably, spaced from the second terminal end face  208  of the tubular member, the gap G can provide sufficient space in which a user can preferably insert their fingers or alternatively a tool to pry the protective cap  100 ′ from the branch connector  200 . As shown in  FIG.  4 C , the annular ring  112 ′ defines a width W 1  or diameter that is equal to the width W 2  defined by the second terminal end face  208 . In an alternate embodiment, the width of the annular ring  112 ′ of the device  100 ′ can be greater than the width W 2  of the second terminal end  208  to provide an enhanced gripping surface of the device  100 ′ which a user can use to remove the protective device  100 ′ from the outlet opening  210  of the branch connector  200  for installation of a sprinkler  10 . 
     Referring now to the protected assembly  1000   b  shown in  FIGS.  5 A- 5 D , the annular ring  112 ′ is affixed to only one indicator  110  of the two diametrically opposed indicators  110 . As with the previously described embodiment of the protected assembly, each of the indicators  110  and the annular ring portion  112 ′ are axially spaced from the second terminal end surface  208  of the tubular member  202  to define the gap G indicative of the internal seal member  250  being in the desired seated orientation. The annular ring  112 ′ preferably includes a peripheral radially extending tab  114  which can be used as a lever to lift or pry the protective device  100 ″ out of the outlet opening  210  and remove it from the branch connector  200 . The peripheral lever  114  is preferably aligned with each of the diametrically opposed indicators  110   a ,  110   b . Moreover, the tab  114  is preferably diametrically opposed the one connection or integration between the annular ring  112 ′ and the one indicator  110 . As seen in  FIG.  5 D , the tab  114  can be depressed to pry the plug body  102  out of the tubular member  202  of the branch connector  200 . Alternatively, or additionally, the peripheral tab  114  can be used as a pull tab to pull the device out of the outlet opening  210  of the branch connector  200 . 
     It should be understood that the varying features of the protective devices  100 ,  100 ′,  100 ″ can be alternatively applied or implemented in the other embodiments. Moreover, depending upon the configuration of the sprinkler  10  to be used in the system installation, the header  300  is installed to orient the branch connectors  200  for appropriate receipt of a pendent, upright or a sidewall/horizontal sprinkler  10 . In a sprinkler system installation, firefighting fluid fed into the inlet opening  206  flows through the annular seal member  250  out the outlet opening  210  to supply the installed sprinkler  10  for discharge and distribution in accordance with the performance specification of the sprinkler  10 . 
     The internal seal member  250  is illustratively shown with its confronting surfaces  252 ,  254 . The annular seal member  250  is preferably configured as the seal shown in U.S. Pat. No. 10,744,527 and PCT Publication Number WO 2022/178179, each of which hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety, to provide a preferred leak-proof connection between the fire protection sprinkler  10  or an other fire protection device and the branch connector  200 . Also, the branch connector  200  can be formed of any suitable material, such as, for example, metal, plastic, and/or combinations thereof. A preferred material for the seal member  250  is an EPDM material having a durometer hardness from 65 to 80, and preferably 70, to provide the desired sealing function and maintain sprinkler position. However, it should be understood that alternative configurations of the internal seal member can be provided and/or alternative configurations of the internal conduit of the branch connector can be provided, such as, shown and described, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,297,663 and 10,744,527 and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2019/0175968, each of which are hereby incorporated by referenced in its entity, that can be utilized in the protected branch assembles and the methods of the preferred embodiments. 
     The length of the branch connector  200  is preferably defined between the second terminal end face  208  and a mid-point of the concave portion of the first terminal end surface  204 . The overall length L of the branch connector  200  preferably ranges from 1 inch to 1½ inch. 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 1¼ inch, where the nominal outlet diameter is ¾ inch, the length L is preferably 1⅛ inch and where the nominal outlet diameter is ½ inch, the length L is preferably 1 1/16 inch. 
     In preferred embodiments of the branch connector  200 , the portion of the branch connector having the internal threads  220  provides an internally threaded portion proximate the outlet opening  210  is preferably configured for coupling the sprinkler  10  by hand. The internally threaded portion is preferably configured for connection with a sprinkler  10  of a nominal size. Accordingly, preferred embodiments of the branch connector  200  at the outlet opening  210  define a nominal size or diameter ranging from ½ inch to 1½ inch and more particularly any one of ½ inch, ¾ inch, 1 inch, 1¼ inch or 1½ inch. Moreover, the external thread of a fire protection sprinkler is typically of a tapered form, for example, NPT thread, for threaded connection to the branch connector  200 . Use of the preferred straight internal threads permits preferred embodiments of the sprinkler  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. The internally threaded portion of the tubular member  202  preferably includes an internal straight thread for receipt of the tapered sprinkler thread of the sprinkler  10 . 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 thread provided the straight thread engages the tapered thread of the sprinkler  20 . The internal straight threads can be for example, a 1-11.5 NPSH Thread; a ¾-14 NPSH Thread; or a ½-14 NPS Thread for mating with a correspondingly nominal 1 inch, ¾ inch or ½ inch fire protection sprinkler. 
     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 deflection member 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 assembly 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 deflection member. In contrast to the passive operation of the fusible or thermally responsive trigger assembly and seal assembly of an automatic fire protection sprinkler, other types of fire protection sprinklers have a controlled operation trigger assembly and seal assembly. For example, in such controlled operations, the trigger assembly and seal assembly are actuated in response to a control signal, and, in such actuated sprinklers, the trigger assembly and/or seal assembly is operated or otherwise ejected by a mechanical, electrical or computer-controlled actuator. In addition to the automatic or controlled operation fire protection sprinklers, any suitable threaded fire protection device that distributes a fire protection fluid can be utilized in the preferred embodiments of the protected branch connector assembly  1000 . 
     The sprinkler  10  shown in  FIG.  1    is illustratively shown generally including a frame with a body and a pair of frame arms disposed about and extending from the body and spaced apart from one another in a plane. A fluid deflection member is coupled to the frame arms and axially spaced from the body. The fluid deflection member and the sprinkler can be configured for installation as a pendent sprinkler, a horizontal sprinkler or an upright sprinkler. The sprinkler  10  is shown as an automatic sprinkler with a thermally responsive trigger assembly coaxially disposed between the body and the fluid deflection member. The trigger assembly is illustratively shown as a solder link and lever arrangement, but alternatively can be configured as a frangible glass bulb. The automatic fire protection sprinkler includes an internal seal assembly that is supported in place by the thermally responsive trigger assembly to maintain a fluid tight seal. Alternatively, or additionally, the trigger assembly and/or seal assembly can incorporate an actuator for a controlled discharge. As shown, the fluid deflection member of the sprinkler  10  is affixed to an apex coaxially aligned along the central sprinkler axis. The thermally responsive trigger assembly is preferably axially supported by a threaded load screw or member threaded into the apex. The discharge or flow characteristics from the sprinkler body 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, 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.) 1/2 ] (“K16.8”); 19.6[GPM/(psi.) 1/2 ] (“K19.6”); 22.4[GPM/(psi.) 1/2 ] (“K22.4”); 25.2[GPM/(psi.) 1/2 ] (“K25.2”) and 28.0[GPM/(psi.) 1/2 ] (“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. 
     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.