Patent Publication Number: US-9849319-B2

Title: Fire protection sprinkler assembly

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/780,773, filed Mar. 13, 2013, which application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present invention relates generally to fire protection devices and more specifically to sprinkler assemblies and the arrangement and operation of their components. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Generally, known automatic fire protection sprinklers include a sprinkler frame or body with an inlet that that is connected to a supply of firefighting fluid under pressure. Disposed within the outlet of sprinkler body is a sealing element to prevent the discharge of fluid from the outlet. The sealing element is held in place by a thermally responsive trigger. The trigger is supported directly or indirectly against the sprinkler frame in order to maintain the sealing element within the outlet. Accordingly, in an unactuated state of the sprinkler, the sealing element and trigger are subject to a static load from the fluid pressure. 
     In response to a sufficiently sized fire or other heat source, the thermally responsive trigger actuates thereby releasing the sealing element to permit discharge of fluid from the sprinkler outlet. The discharged fluid impacts a deflector member disposed at a distance from the outlet for distribution of the fluid. The deflector member can either be disposed in a fixed distance relationship with respect to the sprinkler outlet, i.e., a fixed deflector or alternatively, the deflector can translate with respect to the sprinkler outlet, e.g., a drop down deflector. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,664,630 shows and describes exemplary embodiments of fixed and drop down deflector sprinkler assemblies. FIG. 1 of U.S. Pat. No. 5,664,630 shows a one piece frame arm(s) and body sprinkler frame with a knuckle or apex formed at the end of the frame arms. Centrally affixed about the knuckle is a deflector. The deflector includes a central bore that is disposed over an end of the knuckle and secured by swaging. Disposed within the outlet of the sprinkler frame is a plug which is supported by a thermally responsive bulb. The bulb is retained between the plug and the knuckle by a compression screw threaded through the knuckle and acting on the bulb. Shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 of U.S. Pat. No. 5,664,630 is a concealed sprinkler having a translating or drop down deflector. The sprinkler includes a sprinkler body disposed about which is a deflector support. The deflector support includes a pair of arms which extend axially away from the outlet of the sprinkler body. The ends of the arms are flanged and bored to respectively support a pair of guide pins which slide within the bores. Coupled to the end of the guide pins is a deflecting structure for translation relative the sprinkler outlet. A pair of bores are formed in the deflecting structure through which the ends of the guide pins pass and are swaged to fix the deflecting structure to the guide pins. A plug is disposed and supported in the outlet of the sprinkler by a thermally responsive link-lever assembly. The link-lever assembly includes a pair of levers in which one end of each lever is supported against the sprinkler body to maintain the plug in the sprinkler outlet. 
     These known sprinkler assemblies can present some design limitations and manufacturing complexities. Each of the known sprinkler assemblies either presents a fixed deflector or a translating deflector; but none of the designs show a combined fixed and translating deflector. Additionally, the fixed deflector assembly with the one piece frame, arms and knuckle defines only a single fixed distance between the deflector and the sprinkler outlet. Moreover, each of the fixed and translating deflector assemblies can involve manufacturing and assembly of multiple interconnected components including the guide pins or compression screws separate from the sprinkler frame, surrounding structure and/or deflector member. It may be desirable to provide sprinkler assemblies that overcome some of these design limitation while presenting a more simplified construction. 
     DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION 
     Preferred embodiments of a sprinkler assembly provide for either a pendent or sidewall sprinkler assembly that includes a sprinkler frame, preferably formed from a plastic material, having an outlet for the discharge of a fire fighting fluid, such as water. The sprinkler assembly includes a deflector assembly that translates with respect to the sprinkler frame upon actuation of the sprinkler from an unactuated state. Moreover, the preferred arrangement of the sprinkler assemblies includes at least one and more preferably includes a first portion of the deflector assembly which axially translates relative to the sprinkler outlet in the actuated state of the sprinkler assembly. The deflector assembly preferably includes a second portion of the deflector assembly that remains fixed with respect to the sprinkler outlet to support a thermally responsive trigger and seal assembly in an unactuated state of the sprinkler assembly and provide a deflecting surface for the distribution of water in the actuated state of the sprinkler. 
     One embodiment of a sprinkler assembly includes a sprinkler frame having a proximal portion, a distal portion, an external surface and an internal surface. The internal surface defines an internal passageway extending from an inlet formed in the proximal portion to an outlet formed in the distal portion to define a longitudinal sprinkler axis of the sprinkler assembly. A support member is formed about the distal portion for supporting a deflector assembly. The support member has a first pair of stanchions and a second pair of stanchions orthogonally disposed to the first pair of stanchions about the longitudinal axis. The deflector assembly includes a first deflector assembly engaged with the first pair of stanchions for translation from a first location relative to the outlet in an unactuated state of the sprinkler assembly to a second location distal of the first location. A second deflector assembly is engaged with the second pair of stanchions. The second deflector assembly remains at a fixed location relative to the outlet in each of the unactuated and actuated states of the sprinkler assembly. 
     Another embodiment of the sprinkler assembly includes a sprinkler frame having an internal passageway extending from an inlet to an outlet formed to define a longitudinal sprinkler axis of the sprinkler assembly. A support member is formed about the distal portion for supporting the deflector assembly, the support member having a first stanchion and at least a second stanchion disposed about the support member, each stanchion having a proximal receiver portion proximate the outlet and a distal projection portion. The assembly further includes a first deflector assembly having a first deflector member, a proximal portion received in the receiver portion of the first stanchion and a first receiving structure engaged with the distal projection portion of the first stanchion to define a first location of the first deflector member relative to the outlet in an unactuated state of the sprinkler assembly and a second location of the first deflector member relative to the outlet and distal of the first location in an actuated state of the sprinkler assembly; and a second deflector assembly having a second deflector member, a proximal portion engaged with the receiver portion of the at least second stanchion and a second receiving structure engaged with the distal projection portion of the at least second stanchion to locate the deflector member of the second deflector assembly at a fixed distance from the outlet of the sprinkler frame in each of the unactuated and actuated states of the sprinkler assembly. 
     Another preferred embodiment of the sprinkler assembly includes a plastic sprinkler frame having an internal passageway extending from an inlet to an outlet. A support member having at least one stanchion is disposed about the support member, each stanchion having a proximal receiver portion and a distal projection portion. A preferred first deflector assembly includes a proximal portion engaged with a receiver portion and a distal deflector member. A seal assembly is disposed in the outlet and a thermally responsive trigger assembly includes a thermally responsive element engaged between the seal assembly and the deflector member. The sprinkler assembly includes a first deflector assembly including a receiving structure engaged with the distal projection portion of the stanchion to locate the deflector member at a fixed distance from the outlet of the sprinkler frame to support the thermally responsive element and the seal under a static fluid load of about 175 psi and more preferably up to about 500 psi; and a second deflector assembly coupled to the first deflector assembly for axial translation relative to the first deflector assembly. 
     Another preferred sprinkler assembly includes a plastic sprinkler frame having a proximal portion, a distal portion, an external surface and an internal surface, the internal surface defining an internal passageway extending from an inlet formed in the proximal portion to an outlet formed in the distal portion to define a longitudinal axis of the sprinkler axis. A support member is formed about the distal portion, and a deflector assembly is coupled to the support member. One of the support member and the deflector assembly includes a projection member and the other of the support member and the deflector assembly includes a receiving structure engaged with the projection member to couple the deflector assembly to the sprinkler frame. 
    
    
     
       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 exemplary embodiments of the invention. 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a preferred fire sprinkler assembly; 
         FIG. 2  is an exploded perspective view of the assembly of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 2A  is a partial cross-sectional view of the sprinkler assembly of  FIG. 1  along line IIA-IIA; 
         FIG. 2B  is a partial cross-sectional view of the sprinkler frame for use in the assembly of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of another preferred sprinkler assembly; 
         FIG. 4  is an exploded perspective view of the assembly of  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIGS. 5-8  are various embodiments of a deflector assembly for use in the assembly of  FIGS. 1 and 3 ; 
         FIGS. 9A-9B  are various embodiments of a deflector geometry for use in the assembly of  FIGS. 1 and 3 ; 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of another preferred sprinkler assembly; 
         FIG. 11  is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of another preferred embodiment of a sprinkler assembly. 
     
    
    
     MODE(S) FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION 
     Shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2  is a first illustrative embodiment of a preferred fire protection sprinkler assembly  10 . The preferred assembly  10  includes a sprinkler frame  12  and a deflector assembly  40  engaged with the sprinkler frame  12 . The sprinkler frame has a proximal portion  14  for coupling the sprinkler assembly  10  to a fluid supply pipe network and a distal portion  16  for supporting the deflector assembly  40 . The proximal portion  14  is configured for receipt of a fire fighting fluid, e.g. water, at the inlet  18   a  of an internal fluid passageway  18  for discharge from its outlet  18   b  formed at the distal portion  16  of the sprinkler frame  12 . The sprinkler assembly  10  includes a thermally responsive trigger assembly  60  to control operation of the sprinkler assembly  10  between an unactuated state and an actuated state. In the unactuated state, the thermally responsive trigger assembly  60  maintains a seal assembly  70  to seal the outlet  18   b  of the sprinkler frame  12 . The preferred seal assembly  70  preferably includes a seal and seal support at the outlet  18   b  of the passageway  18  to prevent fluid from exiting the outlet  18   b  of the passageway  18  until the trigger assembly  60  has actuated. In response to a sufficient amount of heat from, for example, a fire event, the thermally responsive trigger assembly  60  operates to place the sprinkler assembly and release the seal assembly  70  from the outlet  18   b . Once actuated, water is discharged from the outlet to impact the deflector assembly  40  for distribution of water in a pattern and/or density for addressing a fire in a desired manner. The deflector assembly preferably includes a first deflector assembly portion  40   a  and a second deflector assembly portion  40   b . In the preferred operation of the deflector assembly  40 , the first deflector assembly  40   a  translates axially and distally with respect to sprinkler frame  12  and the outlet  18   b  and the second deflector assembly  40   b  remains fixed relative to the sprinkler frame  12  and the outlet  18   b . Accordingly, the preferred embodiments provide for at least a portion of the deflector assembly to translate with respect to the sprinkler frame. The sprinkler assemblies described herein may be configured and/or assembled as either a drop-down pendent, a concealed pendent or a sidewall sprinkler. 
     The preferred sprinkler frame  12  is a body having internal and external surfaces which individually or together define the proximal portion  14 , the distal portion  16  and the internal passageway  18  to further define the longitudinal axis A-A of the sprinkler assembly  10 . The sprinkler frame  12  is preferably formed from a plastic body. The sprinkler frame is preferably formed from a plastic material such as, for example, Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride (CPVC) material, more specifically CPVC material per ASTM F442 and substantially similar to the material used to manufacture the BLAZEMASTER® CPVC sprinkler pipe and fittings as shown and described in the technical data sheet, TFP1915: “Blazemaster CPVC Sprinkler Pipe and Fittings Submittal Sheet” (June 2008), which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
     In order to couple the sprinkler assembly  10  to an end of a pipe or pipe fitting of a fluid supply line in the piping network, the proximal portion  14  can include an external thread, such as for example, nominally sized tapered National Pipe Thread (NPT). The external thread preferably ranges in nominal sizes: ½ inch to 1 inch NPT. Alternatively, in one preferred configuration and installation of the sprinkler assembly, the proximal portion  14  can include an external coarse pipe thread for engagement with a corresponding internal threaded pipe fitting such as for example a plastic pipe fitting or component as shown and described in PCT Application Publication No. WO 2013/010098 of PCT Application No. PCT/US2012/046717, filed 13 Jul. 2012, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. Preferably, the external thread is straight pipe thread such as for example, American Standard straight pipe thread (NPS) or cylindrical thread such as for example, Whitworth-pipe thread, DIN/ISO 228. 
     The distal portion  16  of the sprinkler frame  12  preferably includes and is more preferably formed with a support member  20 . The support member is preferably configured to engage and support the deflector assembly  40  in order to: (i) locate the second deflector assembly portion  40   b  at a fixed distance from the outlet  18   b  to support the trigger assembly  60  and seal assembly  70  in an unactuated state of the sprinkler assembly  10  and maintain the fixed distance in the actuated state; and (ii) permit the first deflector assembly portion  40   a  to translate from a first location at a first distance relative to the outlet  18   b  in an unactuated state of the sprinkler assembly to a second location at a second distance relative to the outlet  18   b  and distal of the first location in an actuated state of the sprinkler assembly  10 . In the actuated state, the first and second deflector assemblies  40   a ,  40   b  together provide a desired water distribution pattern and/or density in the actuated state of the sprinkler assembly  10 . The support member  20  is preferably integrally formed at the distal end portion  16   a  of the sprinkler frame  12 , although the support member may be formed axially anywhere along the sprinkler frame  12  provided it can support and affix the deflector assembly  40  as described herein. 
     The support member  20  is preferably continuously formed about the sprinkler frame to surround and more preferably circumscribe the sprinkler axis A-A. The support member  20  is preferably formed as a continuous annulus or circular ring. Alternatively, the support member may be formed discontinuously and/or define a non-circular geometry about the sprinkler axis A-A, such as for example, rectangular, square or oval. With reference to  FIG. 2 , preferably radially disposed about the support member  20  are one or more posts or stanchions  22  extending in the axial and preferably distal direction. Each stanchion includes proximal portion  21   a  configured to receive a proximal portion of the deflector assembly  40   a ,  40   b  and a distal portion  21   b  configured to engage and preferably secure a portion of the deflector assembly. More preferably, as seen in  FIG. 1 , the support member  20  includes a first pair of stanchions  22   a  disposed preferably orthogonally to a second pair of stanchions  22   b  about the axis A-A, such that the two stanchions in each of the first pair  22   a  and second pair  22   b  of stanchion pairs is disposed about the passageway  18 . 
     The proximal portion  21   a  of each stanchion  22  defines a receiver  24  sized and configured for receiving a proximal portion  42  of the deflector assembly  40 . Shown in  FIGS. 2A and 2B  are partial cross-sectional views of the sprinkler frame  12 . Each stanchion  22  preferably includes a radial inner component  24   a  and a radial outer component  24   b . The inner and outer components  24   a ,  24   b  cooperate together at the proximal end of the stanchion  22  to define the receiver  24  for receiving the deflector assembly  40   a ,  40   b . As shown, the preferred radial inner component  24   a  extends axially and preferably distally from the support member  20  of the frame  12 . The radial inner component  24   a  is preferably cantilevered off of the support member  20  and further preferably formed so as to extend away from a line parallel to the sprinkler axis A-A at an angle α, as seen in  FIG. 2B , such that the inner component  24   a  of the stanchion  22  is biased radially outward and preferably is flexible radially inwardly. The radial outer component  24   b  is preferably disposed radially outward of the inner component  24   a  to define a gap therebetween and more preferably define the receiver channel  24  for receiving the proximal end portion  42  of the deflector assembly  40 . The outer radial component  24   b  extends axially to preferably terminate proximally of the distal end of the inner component  24   a . The receiver channel  24  preferably extends axially from a preferably open end at the proximal surface  20   a  of the annulus support member  20  to the distal end of radial component  24   b . Moreover, the outer component  24   b  is preferably joined to the inner component  24   a  so as to further preferably define a gap g therebetween so as to provide sufficient flexure between the components  24   a ,  24   b  to facilitate insertion of the proximal portion of the deflector assembly  40  into the receiver  24 . Preferably, the components  24   a ,  24   b  define an internal geometry which forms the receiver  24  that can accommodate and more preferably correspond to the outer geometry of the proximal portion  42  of the deflector assembly  40  received by the receiver  24 . For example, the receiver  24  has a rectangular cross-sectional area in which the rectangular cross-sectional area of the proximal portion  42  of the second deflector assembly  40   b  can be disposed. 
     Referring again to the exploded view of the sprinkler assembly  10  in  FIG. 2 , formed preferably at the distal portion  21   b  of each stanchion  22  is a projection, tab, hook, locker or wedge member  26  for engaging and/or interlocking an opening, slot or other receiving structure  44   a ,  44   b  in the deflector assembly  40 . In the sprinkler assembly  10 , the proximal portions  42  of the deflector assembly are inserted into the receivers  24  so as to align and locate the wedge members  26  within the respective slots  44   a ,  44   b  of the first and second deflector assemblies  40   a ,  40   b  to secure the deflector assembly  40  to the sprinkler frame  12 . The stanchion  22 , and more particularly the inner component  24   a  of the stanchion, preferably biases the wedge member  26  into engagement with the slot  44   a ,  44   b  of the deflector assemblies  40   a ,  40   b  so as to prevent the axial separation between the sprinkler frame  12  and the deflector assembly  40 . 
     Each of the preferred deflector assemblies  40   a ,  40   b  is formed from metal and includes a deflector portion or member  46   a ,  46   b  at the distal end of the deflector assembly  40   a ,  40   b  and one or more extension members or pillars  48  for engaging the sprinkler frame  12  at the receiver  24 . In a preferred embodiment of the sprinkler assembly  10 , the first deflector assembly  40   a  axially translates with respect to the sprinkler frame  12  and its outlet  18   b  from a first location in the unactuated state of the sprinkler assembly  10  to a second location distal of the first location in the actuated state of the sprinkler  10 . Moreover, the second deflector assembly  40   b  preferably remains in a fixed location with respect to the outlet  18   b  in each of the unactuated and actuated states of the sprinkler assembly. 
     Accordingly, the sprinkler  10  provides for at least one deflector assembly that translates with respect to the sprinkler frame  12 . To provide for the defined axial translation, the first deflector assembly  40   a  preferably includes an elongated receiving structure, slot or opening  44   a  for receiving the projection or wedge member  26  of the stanchion  22 . More specifically, with reference to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , each of the extension members  48  includes one or more internal surfaces  45   a ,  45   b  to define the preferably closed form opening  44   a . More preferably, as seen in  FIG. 2A , each opening  44   a  is defined at least by a proximal first surface  45   a  and an axially distally spaced second surface  45   b . In a preferred unactuated state of the sprinkler assembly  10  (trigger and seal assemblies removed for clarity), the deflector member  46   a  is supported in a first location with respect to the outlet  18   b  such that the projection or wedge member  26  is axially spaced from the first surface  45   a  of the extension member and preferably disposed against or engaged with the second surface  45   b . The deflector assembly  40   a  can be supported in the unactuated position by a thermally sensitive cover plate assembly  300 , such as for example as shown in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2009/0126950, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
     Upon thermal activation of the sprinkler, the cover plate assembly  300  disengages, thereby removing support for the first deflector assembly. Under the force of gravity and/or the water discharge from the outlet  18   b , the first deflector assembly  40   a  and its deflector member  46   a  axially and distally translates to its second position relative to the outlet  18   b . The axial distal translation is preferably defined or limited by the engagement of the wedge or projection member  26  of the stanchion with the first surface  45   a  of the extension member  48 . Accordingly, the total axial translation of the first deflector assembly  40   a  is preferably defined by the axial spacing between the first and second internal surfaces  45   a ,  45   b  of the opening  44   a . In its actuated state, the preferred engagement between the deflector assembly  40   a  and sprinkler frame  12  is sufficient to be maintained under a water discharge from the outlet  18   b  at a working discharge pressure of, for example, 175 psi. 
     In the preferred configuration and operation of the sprinkler assembly  10 , the second deflector assembly  40   b  is in a fixed location with respect to the sprinkler frame  12  and the outlet  18   b  in each of the unactuated and actuated states of the sprinkler assembly  10 . The engagement between the wedge members  26  of the second pair of stanchions  22   b  and the openings  44   b  of the second deflector assembly  40   b  is preferably sufficient to maintain the thermally responsive trigger assembly  60  and seal assembly  70  in their unactuated configurations so as to maintain a static fluid pressure up to about 500 psi. at the seal assembly  70 . In a preferred sprinkler assembly arrangement, the trigger assembly preferably includes a thermally responsive link or element in the preferred form of a glass bulb, such as for example, a bulb shown and described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,796,710, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. Each of the seal assembly  70  and the second deflector assembly  40   b  is configured to load and maintain the trigger assembly  60  in a position aligned along and parallel to the sprinkler axis A-A, as seen in  FIGS. 1 and 2 . The seal assembly  70  includes a seat portion  72  and the second deflector assembly  40   b  includes a seat portion (not shown) to respectively seat and support the proximal end  60   a  and distal end  60   b  of the trigger assembly  60 . The seats  72  can be configured in a manner as shown, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 4,796,710. In an installed, unactuated configuration, water delivered to the sprinkler assembly  10  loads the seal assembly with a pressure from about 175 psi to about 500 psi. The load is distributed over each of the engagements between the stanchion(s)  22  and the deflector assembly  40 . Accordingly, the engagement between the stanchion  22  and the slot  44   b  of the second deflector assembly  40   b  is preferably configured to maintain the engagement under the static fluid load of about 175 psi and more preferably up to about 500 psi. In an actuated state and operation of the sprinkler assembly  10 , the preferred engagement between the second deflector assembly  40   b  and sprinkler frame  12  is preferably sufficient to be maintained under a water discharge from the outlet  18   b  at a working discharge pressure of, for example, 175 psi. 
     Shown in  FIGS. 3 and 4  is an alternate embodiment of the sprinkler assembly  110 . The sprinkler assembly  110  preferably includes the sprinkler frame  12  as previously described with respect to  FIGS. 1, 2, 2A and 2B . Alternatively, however, the sprinkler assembly  110  includes an alternate thermally responsive trigger assembly  160  having two thermally responsive links configured to actuate the sprinkler assembly and a correspondingly configured deflector assembly  140  to support the trigger assembly  160 . The two thermally responsive links or elements preferably include a first thermally responsive bulb  160   a  and a second thermally responsive bulb  160   b , which can be configured as a bulb shown and described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,796,710, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. To support each of the bulbs  160   a ,  160   b  in the preferred axial position parallel to the sprinkler axis A′-A′, the assembly  110  includes a seal assembly  170  and a deflector assembly  140  with corresponding seats for engaging and supporting the bulbs  160   a ,  160   b . Shown in  FIG. 4  is the seal assembly  170  having first and second seats  172   a ,  172   b  for engaging and supporting the first and second bulbs  160   a ,  160   b  at their proximal ends and the deflector assembly  140  can include a seat to engage and support the bulbs  160   a ,  160   b  at their distal ends. The seats can be configured in a manner as shown, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 4,796,710. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 2 , the preferred deflector assembly  40  and each of its deflector assemblies  40   a ,  40   b  are preferably formed from metal and includes a deflector portion  46   a ,  46   b  at the distal end of the deflector assembly  40   a ,  40   b  and one or more extension members or pillars  48   a ,  48   b  for engaging the sprinkler frame  12  at the receiver  24 . In one preferred aspect, the deflector assembly  40   a ,  40   b  is stamped and bent from a metal such as, for example, a flat or planar bronze blank. The extension members  48   a ,  48   b  are preferably stamped with the deflector portion  46  so as to locate the deflector portion centrally between the extension members. The extension members  48   a ,  48   b  are then preferably bent so as to extend preferably orthogonally from the deflector member  46   a ,  46   b  as shown, for example,  FIG. 2 . Each of the extension members  48   a ,  48   b  is shaped so as to define the proximal end  42   a ,  42   b  of the deflector assembly  40  having a configuration that corresponds to the configuration of the receiver  24  of the stanchion  22 . As seen in the preferred embodiment of  FIG. 2 , the extension members  48   a ,  48   b  have a rectangular cross-sectional area for receipt in the receiver channel  24  of the stanchion  22 . 
     Shown in  FIGS. 5, 6, 7, and 8  are the various alternative embodiments of the deflector assemblies  40   a ,  40   b ,  140   a ,  140   b  and deflector members  46   a ,  46   b ,  46   c ,  46   d . The embodiments of  FIGS. 1 and 3  respectively show the second deflector  40   b ,  140   b  of  FIG. 6  and  FIG. 8  as supporting the trigger assembly in a fixed relationship with respect to the sprinkler frame outlet  18   b . However, it should be understood that the first and second deflector assemblies  40   a ,  40   b ,  140   a ,  140   b  can be interchanged to function as either a fixed or a translating deflector assembly portion depending on the slot or opening  44  provided along the extension member  48 ,  148  of the deflector assemblies. Accordingly, either deflector assembly  40   a ,  40   b  of  FIGS. 5 and 6  can be configured to seat a single thermally responsive bulb along the deflector axis B-B and the sprinkler axis A-A. Similarly, either deflector assembly  140   a ,  140   b  of  FIGS. 7 and 8  can be configured to seat and support at least two thermally responsive bulbs. 
     As described, each of the deflector assemblies  40   a ,  40   b ,  140   a ,  140   b  and its extension members  48  are further preferably formed with the opening  44   a ,  44   b  for engaging the wedge member  26  of the stanchion  22  to couple the deflector assembly  40  to the sprinkler frame  12  either in a fixed relationship or to provide relative translation. The opening  44  preferably defines a closed form opening centrally aligned along the extension member  48 . Accordingly, the opening  44  preferably defines a window having a plurality of surfaces for engagement with the surfaces of the wedge member  26  to form the inter-locked engagement previously described. Alternatively, the openings  44  of the extension members may be formed as an open-formed geometry, for example, formed along the edges of the extension members  48  provided the slot or opening  44  can engage the stanchion  22  to secure the deflector assembly  10  to the sprinkler frame  12  as described herein. Each of the extension members  48  of the deflector assembly  40  are shown with a single opening or window  44 . Alternatively, the extension members  48  can include a plurality of openings  44 ′ a ,  44 ′ b , for example, as shown in phantom in  FIG. 6 , axially spaced and aligned along the extension members  48  to selectively define a plurality of deflector member-to-outlet distances for the assembly of the sprinkler assembly  10 ,  110 . 
     In each of the deflector assemblies  40 ,  40   b ,  40   c ,  40   d , each of the extension member(s)  48  presents an inner surface  48   a  and an outer surface  48   b  relative to the assembly axis. One or more of the surfaces may be concave or convex. As illustrated in the deflector assembly  10  embodiments, each extension members  48  can define a variable geometry along its axial length or alternatively a constant width. The extension member  48  may taper narrowly in either the proximal or distal direction or both. It may taper at a constant rate, or as seen, taper in a step-wise fashion. The extension members  48  preferably extend parallel to the sprinkler axis A-A to define a substantially constant radius to the assembly axis A-A. Alternatively, the extension members  48  may angle toward or away from the deflector axis B-B as seen, for example, in  FIGS. 9A and 9B . Thus, the extension member(s)  48  or portions thereof can extend or be disposed inside or outside the fluid flow path from the sprinkler frame outlet  18   b.    
     The deflector member  46   a  in  FIG. 5  is substantially planar having a plurality of spaced apart tines defining open ended slots  47   a . Additionally, the deflector member  46   a  is shown with its impact surface normal or orthogonal to the deflector axis. Alternatively, the extension members  48  can be configured to angle the deflector member  46  to define an obtuse included angle between the impact surface and the deflector axis. Thus, the components of the deflector assembly  40 , their surfaces and or voids can individually or collectively define deflection surfaces of the assembly, which in combination with the deflector member  46  can define the performance of the sprinkler assembly  10 . 
     Shown in  FIG. 6  is an arcuate or bowed deflector member  46   b  to present a preferably concave impact surface with respect to the outlet  18   b  of the sprinkler frame  12 . The deflector member  46   b  includes one or more preferably closed ended slots  47   b  to define the spray distribution pattern of the deflector member  24 . Shown in  FIG. 7  is a substantially planar deflector member  146   a  having an outer perimeter defining a rectangular geometry and more preferably a square geometry. The deflector member  146   a  preferably defines a preferably rectangular and more preferably square window  147   a  centered on the deflector axis. Shown in  FIG. 8  is an alternate embodiment of the deflector member  146   b  defining a substantially circular perimeter and a central circular window  147   b.    
     It is to be understood that the deflector members  46   a ,  46   b ,  146   a ,  146   b  of  FIG. 1  and  FIG. 3  are shown generically and that the deflector members can be configured in a manner to distribute fluid (water) and address a fire in accordance with industry accepted standards. Accordingly, the deflector member  46  may define any geometry such that the sprinkler assembly performs in accordance with one or more industry accepted performance standards. For example, the deflector member can be circular with each of the slots extending radially toward the center of the deflector member, which is preferably axially aligned with the sprinkler axis A-A. 
     Provided the deflector member can be coupled to the sprinkler frame  12  in a manner and operation shown and described herein, the deflector member  46  may be defined by a known deflector geometry which satisfies one or more known industry performance standards. For example, residential automatic fire protection sprinklers are typically designed to specific performance criteria or standards that have been accepted by the industry. The performance criteria establishes the minimum performance standards for a given sprinkler to be considered 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” (March 2008) (Rev. April 2012) (hereinafter “UL 1626”), which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference thereto, is an accepted industry standard. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) also promulgates standards relating to residential fire protection such as, for example, NFPA Standard 13 (2013) (hereinafter “NFPA 13”), 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 to deliver a minimum flow rate (gallons per minute or “gpm”) for a specified coverage area (square feet or “ft 2 ”) so as to provide for a desired average density of at least 0.05 gpm/ft 2 . In one particular embodiment, the deflector member  46  may be configured as a known residential deflector provided it can be coupled to a receiver  24  by an extension member  48  as described herein. Exemplary pendent and horizontal sidewall deflectors are shown and described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,074,725; 7,201,234; 8,151,897; and U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 20090126950; 20100263883, each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
     Each of the previously described embodiments of the sprinkler assembly shows the deflector assembly with the first deflector assembly and the second deflector assembly coupled to the sprinkler frame for respective relative translation and fixed engagement. Shown in  FIG. 10  is another alternate embodiment of a sprinkler assembly  210  in which the deflector assembly  240  includes a first deflector assembly  240   a  coupled to the sprinkler frame  212  in a fixed relationship and a second deflector assembly  240   b  coupled to the first sprinkler assembly  240   a  for relative translation with respect to the sprinkler frame  212 . Preferably, the sprinkler frame  212  includes a support member  220  having a single pair of stanchions  222  as previously described for coupling to the first deflector assembly  240   a . The first deflector assembly  240   a  is shown as the deflector assembly of  FIG. 8 , but may be alternatively configured so long as the extension member  248   a  includes openings  244  for maintaining the same relative spacing between the deflector member  246  and the outlet  218   b  in each of the unactuated and actuated states of the sprinkler assembly  210 . Preferably coupled to the first deflector member  246   a  is the second deflector assembly  240   b . The second deflector assembly  240   b  can include a deflector member  246   b  and one or more pins  248   b  disposed within through holes formed in the first deflector member  246   a  for a sliding engagement to locate the second deflector member  246   b  in a first location relative to the outlet  218   a  in an unactuated state of the sprinkler assembly and a second location distal of the first (shown in dashed) in an actuated state of the sprinkler assembly. The second deflector assembly  240   b  can be configured as a known flat plate deflector and pin assembly, as seen for example, with the deflector and pins similar to those shown in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2009/0126950. 
     Each of the above embodiments shows or describes the support member of the sprinkler frame having a projection, hook or wedge engaged in a receiving structure formed in the deflector to axially couple the deflector member to the sprinkler frame. Shown in  FIG. 11  is a cross-sectional view of another alternate embodiment of the sprinkler assembly  310  in which the deflector assembly  340  includes a projection member  344  engaged with a complementarily formed structure to engage the projection member  344 . The sprinkler frame  312  includes a support member  320  preferably formed with a pair of posts or stanchions  322  disposed about the internal fluid passageway  318 . Each of the stanchions  322  are preferably formed with an outer lateral and axially extending channel  324  for receipt of a proximal portion  342  of the deflector assembly  340 . Preferably formed at the distal end of each stanchion is a receiving structure  326  for engagement with the proximal end  342  of the deflector assembly  340  to limit the relative axial translation between the deflector assembly  340  and the sprinkler frame  312 . More specifically, the receiving structure  326  preferably is configured as a notch defined by an angled surface  326   a  formed internal to the channel  324  adjacent the walls of the channel  324 . 
     The deflector  340  includes a deflector member  346  with a pair of extension members  348  disposed about and extending orthogonally to the deflector member  346 . The proximal ends  342  of the extension members are preferably formed with a flexible projection member  344 . The flexible projection  344  permits axial insertion into the receiving channel  342  of the stanchion  322 . Once located proximal of the receiving structure  324 , the flexible projection  344  extends laterally to form an included angle with the axially extending extension member  348 . Depending on the axial length of the channel  324 , the deflector assembly  340  and its deflector member  346  can translate axially relative to the outlet  318   b  of the sprinkler frame  312 . The receiving structure  326  and its angled surface  326   a  act to limit the axial translation of the deflector assembly in the distal direction by engaging the projection member  344  and preventing the separation of the frame  312  and deflector assembly  340 . Accordingly, the structure of  FIG. 11  can provide for a sprinkler assembly with an alternate stanchion and deflector engagement to provide for an axially translating deflector. It should be understood that the axial length and/or internal surface of the receiving channel  324  can be modified to limit or eliminate axial translation between the deflector member  346  and the outlet  318   b  to provide for a deflector member that remains fixed and in the same location in each of the unactuated and actuated states of the sprinkler assembly. 
     Referring again to the illustrative cross-sectional view of the sprinkler assembly  10  in  FIG. 1B , the fluid passage can include a tapering portion that tapers narrowly in the distal direction and a constant diameter portion that is distal of and contiguous with the tapering portion. The passageway may alternatively have a constant width or taper at a constant rate, variable rate or combinations thereof along its entire length. The internal surface of the sprinkler frame  12  defines an internal fluid passageway  18  that extends axially from the proximal portion  14  preferably into the distal portion  16 . The fluid passage  18  has an inlet  18   a  into which water is supplied and an outlet  18   b  from which the water is discharged for impacting the deflector assembly  40 . 
     The fluid passage  18 , inlet  18   a  and outlet  18   b  preferably define a sprinkler constant or K-factor which approximates the flow rate to be expected from an outlet of a sprinkler based on the square root of the pressure of fluid fed into the inlet of the sprinkler. As used herein and in the sprinkler industry, the K-factor is a measurement used to indicate the flow capacity of a sprinkler. More specifically, the K-factor is a constant representing a sprinkler&#39;s discharge coefficient that is quantified by the flow of fluid in gallons per minute (GPM) through the sprinkler passageway divided by the square root of the pressure of the flow of fluid fed to the sprinkler in pounds per square inch gauge (PSIG.). The K-factor is expressed as GPM/(PSI) 1/2 . Industry accepted standards such as, for example, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standard entitled, “NFPA 13: Standards for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems” (2010 ed.) (“NFPA 13”) provide for a rated or nominal K-factor or rated discharge coefficient of a sprinkler as a mean value over a K-factor range. As used herein, “nominal” describes a numerical value, designated under an accepted standard, about which a measured parameter may vary as defined by an accepted tolerance ranging. The sprinkler frame and its internal passage  18  and inlet passage  18   b  can be configured to define a K-factor ranging from a nominal 4.1 to a nominal 5.6 GPM/(PSI) 1/2 . 
     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.