Patent Publication Number: US-2023149953-A1

Title: Dry fire protection sprinkler and fluid deflection member assemblies

Description:
PRIORITY DATA AND INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE 
     This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/003,660, filed Apr. 1, 2020, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present invention relates generally to dry sprinkler assemblies and in particular, dry fire protection sprinkler and fluid deflection member assemblies. 
     BACKGROUND ART 
     Generally, automatic fire protection sprinklers include a sprinkler frame and/or housing having an inlet, an outlet and internal passageway through which firefighting fluid flows and discharged to impact a fluid deflection member that is coupled to the sprinkler frame and spaced from the outlet. Fluid flow through the sprinkler is controlled by a thermally responsive trigger which supports a sealing assembly in a position that seals the internal passageway of the sprinkler. The trigger has a nominal operating temperature and thermal sensitivity to define the thermal responsiveness of the sprinkler at which the sprinkler actuates in response to a fire. Upon thermal actuation of the trigger in response to a fire, the trigger fractures or collapses thereby releasing the sealing assembly to allow the flow of fluid through the sprinkler internal passageway, out the outlet and toward the fluid deflection member. Fluid deflection members can be formed to a variety of geometries to suit a given fire protection application. The deflector geometries can be categorized into one of two types. One type of fluid deflection member presents a central abutment to the fluid discharge from the outlet opening and fans the fluid discharge radially. Such a deflector geometry is shown, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,766,252 and 5,664,630. 
     An alternate type of deflection geometry defines an unencumbered fluid flow path. As used herein, an “unencumbered fluid flow path” provides for a fluid discharge column in which its central core is not impacted by any sprinkler structure and fanned radially. Instead, the fluid deflection member geometry acts on the periphery of the discharge column to direct the fluid stream in a desired manner Such a deflector geometry is shown, for example, in the flow-shaper members of U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,662,190; 8,151,462 and 7,712,218. In each of the sprinkler assemblies shown, the fluid deflection member is located and affixed downstream of the sprinkler outlet with the sprinkler trigger seated against a yoke member to support the seal assembly in the sprinkler passageway. Each of the seal assembly, trigger and yoke member are located between the outlet and the fluid deflection member. In order to ensure that the central core of fluid discharge is not impacted by the trigger or supporting structures upon thermal actuation of the trigger, the sealing assembly includes a sealing spring that acts against the sealing surface to bias or urge the sealing assembly out of the outlet. Moreover, the yoke member is structured to increase its instability in the assembly upon trigger actuation so that the yoke member falls out of the fluid flow path along with the ejected sealing assembly. In the sprinkler assemblies of U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,662,190; 8,151,462 and 7,712,218, the seal assembly forms a fluid tight seal against an internal sealing surface located at or proximate the outlet. Accordingly, firefighting fluid delivered to such an installed sprinkler assembly, fills the sprinkler up to the seal assembly proximate the outlet. The presence of the fluid proximate the outlet provides fluid pressure to act against the seal assembly, trigger and yoke member to clear them from the fluid flow path upon trigger actuation and maintain the unencumbered fluid flow path. 
     Another type of automatic sprinkler is the dry sprinkler assembly. An example of a dry sprinkler is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 8,636,075. Dry sprinklers can be configured for installation in a variety of orientations depending upon the application. Dry sprinklers can be configured for an upright installation, a pendent installation or a horizontal installation. An example of a pendent-type dry sprinkler is shown and described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,664,630. An example of a horizontal dry sprinkler is shown and described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,921,928. A dry sprinkler assembly generally includes a tubular sprinkler housing with an inlet end fluid opening and a discharge outlet opening axially spaced from the inlet opening with an internal passageway extending therebetween. An internal fluid control assembly is supported within the housing between the inlet and outlet openings by a frangible thermally responsive glass bulb trigger to seal the sprinkler at the fluid inlet. When the bulb fractures in response to a fire, a component of the fluid control assembly is ejected from the outlet of the housing allowing the remainder of the fluid control assembly to axially translate out of its sealed position thereby opening the fluid inlet and sprinkler internal passageway. To ensure proper opening and operation of a dry sprinkler assembly, it is important that the ejected member completely clear the sprinkler structure and fluid flow path between the housing and the fluid deflection member. The sprinkler shown and described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,921,928 includes a sprinkler body attached to the housing to define the outlet opening. As shown, the sprinkler body includes a pair of frame arms that extend away from the outlet opening and converge toward a coaxially centrally aligned fluid deflection boss, to which the fluid deflection member is affixed. The fluid deflection boss and the fluid deflection member present a central abutment to the fluid discharge from the sprinkler outlet opening to redirect and spread the discharged fluid from its center and provide an effective horizontal fluid distribution. It is believed that, there remains a need for alternate dry sprinkler and fluid deflection member assemblies, and in particular, for dry sprinkler assemblies with fluid deflection members that provide for an unencumbered fluid flow path. 
     DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION 
     Preferred embodiments of a dry fire protection sprinkler and fluid deflection member assembly are provided. The preferred sprinkler assembly generally includes an elongate tubular outer housing having a first end and a second end opposite the first end. Within the tubular housing, an internal conduit extends from the first end to the second end along a longitudinal sprinkler axis. The first end of the housing defines a fluid intake end of the sprinkler assembly having an inlet opening and an internal sealing surface proximate the inlet opening. The second end of the housing defines a fluid discharge end of the sprinkler assembly having an outlet opening. A fluid deflection member is affixed to the housing at a preferably fixed distance from the outlet opening to define an unencumbered fluid flow path. 
     The sprinkler assembly is preferably an automatic sprinkler in which fluid flow through the sprinkler is regulated by a thermally responsive trigger assembly and a preferred internal fluid control assembly disposed within the housing. The trigger defines an unactuated state of the sprinkler assembly in which the trigger supports the internal fluid control assembly within the housing to form a fluid tight seal with the internal sealing surface. Upon thermal operation of the trigger, an actuated state of the sprinkler assembly is defined in which the internal fluid control assembly is displaced and preferably axially translated out of contact with the internal sealing surface. Preferred embodiments of the fluid control assembly include a support subassembly that provide an ejectable member that is ejected out of the housing upon sprinkler actuation. Upon sprinkler actuation, preferred embodiments of the ejectable member of the fluid control assembly define a mechanical interface with other structures of the sprinkler assembly which facilitates ejection of the ejectable member through the housing outlet opening. Moreover, the preferred mechanical interface facilitates clearance of the ejectable member and other sprinkler components out of the preferred unencumbered fluid flow path of the sprinkler assembly. 
     Preferred embodiments of a dry sprinkler assembly include a tubular outer housing having a first end and a second end opposite the first end with an internal conduit extending from the first end to the second end along a central longitudinal sprinkler axis. The first end of the housing defines a fluid intake end of the sprinkler assembly having an inlet opening and an internal sealing surface proximate the inlet opening. The second end of the housing defines a fluid discharge end of the housing having an outlet opening. The second end of the housing also preferably includes a terminal portion of the housing that circumscribes about the central longitudinal axis. The preferred terminal portion of the housing is axially spaced from the outlet opening to preferably define a frame window between the terminal portion and the outlet opening. A fluid control assembly is disposed coaxially within the internal conduit of the outer housing for displacement from being in in fluid tight contact with the sealing surface to being out of contact with the sealing surface to provide for an unencumbered fluid flow path extending along the central longitudinal sprinkler axis from the fluid control assembly through the terminal portion. A preferred fluid deflection member is affixed to the terminal portion of the housing. The fluid deflection member preferably includes has a fluid flow surface to maintain the unencumbered fluid flow path along the central longitudinal sprinkler axis between the fluid control assembly to the fluid flow surface when the fluid control assembly is out of contact with the sealing surface. Preferred embodiments of the fluid deflection member include at least one tab radially spaced from the central longitudinal axis at a fixed distance from the outlet opening to define the preferred fluid flow surface and maintain the unencumbered fluid flow path along the central longitudinal sprinkler axis extending between the fluid control assembly and the at least one tab. 
     In another preferred embodiment of the sprinkler assembly, the tubular outer housing includes a pair of frame arms diametrically opposed about the outlet opening extending axially therefrom to define a frame window therebetween. A preferred fluid deflection member is coupled to the frame arms at the preferred fixed distance from the outlet opening. Preferred embodiments of the sprinkler assembly and its fluid deflection member define an unencumbered fluid flow path for a column of fluid discharge from the outlet opening of the housing. In one preferred embodiment, the fluid deflection member includes at least one tab, and more preferably includes at least two tabs opposed from one another about a plane that includes the central longitudinal sprinkler axis. The preferred tabs act on an unencumbered column of fluid discharge from the outlet opening in a radially inward direction. In preferred embodiments, each of the tabs are symmetrical about a second plane that is perpendicular to and intersects the first plane along the central longitudinal sprinkler axis with the pair of frame arms being aligned with one another in the second plane. The pair of frame arms preferably terminate at an annular boss centered about the central longitudinal sprinkler axis with the preferred fluid deflection member being affixed to the annular frame boss. 
     Preferred embodiments of the sprinkler assembly include a trigger embodied as a frangible glass bulb having a first end seated against the support subassembly and an opposite second end seated against a yoke member to align the glass bulb along the central sprinkler axis. The yoke preferably includes a crossbar portion with a central region for seating the second end of the glass bulb and two end regions disposed about the central region that are each subject to a load force to axially load the glass bulb and fluid control assembly. The preferred yoke member includes an extension member extending between the two end regions of the yoke member to define a center of gravity that is off-set from the central longitudinal sprinkler axis. 
    
    
     
       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. 
         FIGS.  1 ,  1 A and  1 B  are various cross-sectional views of a preferred embodiment of a dry sprinkler assembly. 
         FIG.  2    is a preferred fluid deflection member for use in the sprinkler assembly of  FIG.  1   . 
         FIGS.  3 A- 3 B  are various detailed partial cross-sectional views at the fluid discharge end of the sprinkler assembly of  FIG.  1   . 
         FIG.  4    is a perspective view of a support subassembly used in the sprinkler assembly of  FIG.  1   . 
         FIG.  4 A  is an exploded perspective view of the support subassembly of  FIG.  4   . 
     
    
    
     MODE(S) FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION 
     Shown in  FIGS.  1 ,  1 A and  1 B  is a preferred embodiment of a dry sprinkler assembly  10 . Preferred embodiments of the sprinkler can be configured for an upright installation, a pendent installation or a horizontal installation. The sprinkler assembly generally includes an elongate tubular outer housing  12  having a first end  14  and a second end  16  opposite the first end  14 . Within the tubular housing  12 , an internal conduit  18  extends from the first end  14  to the second end  16  along a central longitudinal sprinkler axis X-−X. The first end  14  of the housing  12  defines a fluid intake end  10   a  of the sprinkler assembly  10  having an inlet opening  20  and an internal sealing surface  22  proximate the inlet opening  20 . The second end  16  of the housing  12  defines a fluid discharge end  10   b  of the sprinkler assembly  10  having an outlet opening  24 . Installed, the first end  14  of the sprinkler assembly  10  can be coupled to a fluid supply pipe of a sprinkler system with the central longitudinal sprinkler axis X-−X in, for example, a preferably horizontal orientation parallel to the floor or ceiling for fluid discharge from the outlet opening  24  directed horizontally in the direction of the sprinkler axis X-−X toward a fluid deflection member  30  affixed to the housing  12 . Preferred embodiments of the fluid deflection member  30  can direct the flow of fluid outwardly and downwardly, with some of the fluid lifted to project the fluid across a room, for example, and some of the fluid directed laterally downward to provide wall wetting. 
     Generally, fluid flow through the sprinkler assembly  10  is controlled by a fluid control assembly  100  disposed within the internal conduit of the outer housing  12  for displacement from a first position in fluid tight contact with the sealing surface  22  to a second position out of contact with the sealing surface  22  to permit the flow of firefighting fluid therethrough. The sprinkler  10  is a preferably an automatic sprinkler in which fluid flow through the sprinkler is regulated by a thermally responsive trigger assembly  39  and the preferred internal fluid control assembly  100  disposed within the housing  12 . The trigger  39  defines an unactuated state of the sprinkler assembly  10  in which the trigger  39  supports the internal fluid control assembly  100  within the housing  12  into contact with the internal sealing surface  22  to form a fluid tight seal with the internal sealing surface  22  and seal the rest of the sprinkler assembly from the supply pipe. Upon thermal operation of the trigger  39  in response to a level of heat indicative of a fire, an actuated state of the sprinkler assembly  10  is defined in which support of the fluid control assembly  100  has been removed which permits the internal fluid control assembly  100  to displace, and more preferably axially translate, out of contact with the internal sealing surface  22  under the fluid pressure in the fluid supply pipe of the system and/or an internal spring (not shown) that biases the fluid control assembly out of contact with the internal sealing surface  22 . Firefighting fluid delivered to the intake end  10   a  of the sprinkler assembly flows through the internal conduit  18  and the internal fluid control assembly  100  and is discharged out of the outlet opening  24  of the housing  12  along a fluid flow path for effective fluid distribution fire protection by the fluid deflection member  30  affixed to the housing  12  preferably at a fixed distance from the outlet opening  24  which defines a frame window therebetween. 
     The fluid control assembly  100  includes an ejectable member that is translated out of the internal conduit  18  of the housing, ejected out the outlet opening  24  and displaced out of the fluid flow path between the outlet opening  24  and the fluid deflection member  30 . In the preferred sprinkler assembly  10 , a preferred structural and dynamic relationship between the ejectable member and the housing ensure proper guided and complete ejection and displacement of the ejectable member out of the fluid discharge fluid flow path. Generally, the ejectable member preferably defines a mechanical interface with other structures of the sprinkler assembly such as, for example, the housing which facilitates ejection of the ejectable member through the housing outlet opening and out of the preferred unencumbered fluid flow path upon thermal actuation of the sprinkler. More specifically, with the fluid control assembly  100  out of contact with the internal sealing surface  22 , preferred embodiments of the mechanical interface include a surface contact between the ejectable member of the fluid control assembly  100  and an internal or external surface of the housing  12  to guide the ejectable member out of the housing  12  and pivot the member out of the frame window and clear of fluid flow path. Alternatively, the sprinkler assembly  10  can include an intermediate member between the ejectable member and the housing such as, for example, a biasing member or spring to pivot the member out of the frame window and clear of fluid flow path. The member is ejected into the frame window with the member initially coaxially aligned with the central sprinkler axis and then skewed with respect to the central longitudinal sprinkler axis upon the member contacting the housing surface and more preferably an internal contact surface of the housing. Moreover, the preferred structural and dynamic relationship between the ejectable member and the housing  12  define a spatial and temporal coordination between the axial translation of the ejectable member and its pivot out of the fluid flow path by axially guiding the ejectable member and inhibiting or otherwise preventing its angular rotation about the central longitudinal axis X-−X. 
     In preferred embodiments of the sprinkler assembly  10 , the fluid deflection member  30  is located at a fixed distance from the outlet opening  24  and in the housing  12 , the second end  16  preferably includes a terminal portion  28  axially spaced downstream from the outlet opening  24  to which the fluid deflection member  30  can be affixed. The terminal portion  28  preferably defines the preferred frame window between the terminal portion  28  and the outlet opening  24 . The terminal portion  28  preferably, at least partially, circumscribes the central longitudinal sprinkler axis X-−X, and more preferably, completely circumscribes the sprinkler axis X-−X. Alternatively or additionally, in order to locate the deflector, the sprinkler housing  12  preferably includes a pair of frame arms  27   a ,  27   b  that are diametrically opposed about the outlet opening  24  extending axially away therefrom between the outlet opening  24  and the preferred terminal portion  28  toward the deflection member  30 . In an alternative embodiment, the frame arms  27   a ,  27   b  can converge toward the central longitudinal axis X-−X and form a coaxially aligned fluid deflection boss, for example as seen in U.S. Pat. No. 8,636,075, to which the fluid deflection member  30  can be affixed. In such an embodiment, the deflection member  30  can include or define a central portion that, together with the deflection boss, presents an abutment to the fluid discharge from the outlet opening  24  to redirect and spread the discharged fluid from its center to fan the fluid radially outwardly to provide, for example, an effective horizontal fluid distribution. 
     In preferred embodiments of the sprinkler assembly  10 , a fluid distribution with an unencumber fluid flow path is provided. More particularly, embodiments of the sprinkler housing  12 , fluid control assembly  100  and fluid deflecting member  30  provide for the preferred unencumbered fluid flow path that extends from the outlet opening  24  to the fluid deflection member  30  and more preferably extends from the fluid control assembly  100  to the fluid deflection member  30 . For preferred embodiments of the sprinkler assembly  10 , the preferred fluid control assembly  100  includes the preferred ejectable member that clears the frame window between the outlet opening and the terminal portion of the housing  12  upon sprinkler actuation to define the preferred unencumbered fluid flow path along the central longitudinal sprinkler axis from at least the outlet opening  24  to the terminal portion  28  and preferably through the terminal portion  28 . Preferred embodiments of the fluid deflection member  30  affixed to the housing  12  has one or more fluid flow surfaces that extends the preferred unencumbered fluid flow path from the terminal portion  28  of the housing to the fluid flow surface of the fluid deflection member  30 . For a fluid column discharged from the outlet opening  24 , the fluid column is acted on at its outer surface or periphery by the fluid deflection member  30  to direct the fluid stream in a desired manner to produce the fluid distribution for effective fire protection. Accordingly, preferred embodiment of the sprinkler assembly  10  provide that the unencumbered fluid flow path extends through the fluid deflection member  30 . 
     In preferred embodiments of the sprinkler housing  12 , the terminal portion  28  preferably forms an annular member centered and circumscribed about the central longitudinal sprinkler axis. In preferred embodiments of the housing  12  having the pair of frame arms  27   a ,  27   b , the arms terminate at the terminal portion  28  and more preferably at the annular formation  28 . In the actuated state of the preferred sprinkler assembly  10 , the preferred unencumbered fluid flow path extends from the outlet opening  24  to the annular formation  28  and more preferably through the annular formation  28 . The fluid deflection member  30  is preferably affixed to the outer housing  12  and more preferably affixed to the terminal portion  28  to locate the fluid deflection member  30  at the preferred fixed distance from the outlet opening  24 . Preferred embodiments of the fluid deflection member  30  include one or more fluid flow surfaces radially spaced from the central longitudinal axis for acting on the periphery of the discharge column from the outlet  24 . Accordingly, the fluid deflection member  30  preferably extends the preferred unencumbered fluid flow path along the central longitudinal sprinkler axis from the terminal portion  28  to the fluid flow surface. 
     Preferred embodiments of the fluid deflection member  30  include at least one tab  32  that is radially spaced from the central longitudinal sprinkler axis X-−X and which includes the preferred fluid flow surfaces, edges and/or slots to define preferred geometries for acting on the periphery of the discharge column. With specific reference to  FIGS.  1 A and  1 B , preferred embodiments of the fluid deflection member  30  more preferably includes at least two tabs, such as for example, a preferred first tab  32   a  and a preferred second tab  32   b . The first and second tabs  32   a ,  32   b  are opposed from one another about a first plane P 1  defined by the central longitudinal sprinkler axis X-−X and a lateral axis Y-Y extending perpendicular to the central longitudinal sprinkler axis X-−X to define the preferred unencumbered fluid flow path extending from the outlet opening  24 , and more preferably from the fluid control assembly along the central longitudinal sprinkler axis X-−X to the tabs  32   a ,  32   b . The preferred fluid deflection member  30  can be configured similarly to the flow-shaping member as shown and described in any one of U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,662,190; 8,151,462 and 7,712,218. Accordingly, preferred embodiments of the sprinkler assembly can provide for the preferred unencumbered fluid flow path to extend from the outlet opening  24 , and more preferably from the fluid control assembly  100 , through the fluid deflection member  30  along the central longitudinal sprinkler axis X-−X to the tabs  32   a ,  32   b.    
     As seen in  FIG.  1 A  and  FIG.  2   , each of the tabs  32   a ,  32   b  are preferably angled with respect to the sprinkler axis X-−X to present inwardly facing fluid flow surfaces to the outlet  24 . With particular reference to  FIG.  2   , each of the preferred first and second tabs  32   a ,  32   b  have a leading edge  34   a ,  34   b  and a trailing edge  36   a ,  36   b  with the fluid flow surfaces  38   a ,  38   b  extending therebetween. Each of the first and second tabs  32   a ,  32   b  are angled and more preferably skewed with respect to the central longitudinal sprinkler axis X-−X so that the leading edge  34   a ,  34   b  is radially inward of the trailing edge  36   a ,  36   b . The angle of the tabs  32   a ,  32   b  preferably taper the unencumbered fluid flow path. Each of the tabs  32   a ,  32   b  define a preferred included angle with the central longitudinal sprinkler axis X-−X that ranges from thirty degrees to sixty degrees)(30°-−60°. The included angles of the tabs can be the same or different. In one preferred embodiment, the first tab  32   a  defines a preferred included angle ranging from 35°-−40° and is more preferably 37 degrees. The second tab  32   b  defines a different included angle ranging from 30°-−50° and more preferably being any one of 33° and 48° with the central longitudinal sprinkler axis X-−X. 
     The tabs  32   a ,  32   b  and their edges each define a preferably polygon-shaped geometry with features that can be similar to one another. For example, each of the preferred tabs  32   a ,  32   b , can have parallel lateral edges that extend perpendicularly between the leading and trailing edges. The spacing between the lateral edges define the width of the tabs  32   a ,  32   b  with the length of the lateral edges defining the length of the tabs  32   a ,  32   b . The widths of the tabs  32   a ,  32   b  may similarly or variably range between 0.300 inch 3.000 inches and lengths of the tabs  32   a ,  32   b  can similarly or variably range between 0.200 to 1.300 inches. More preferably, the tabs  32   a ,  32   b  are geometrically configured differently. In the preferred embodiment of the fluid deflection member  30  of  FIG.  2   , the leading edge  34   a  of the first tab  32   a  preferably defines a width ranging between 0.5 inch to 0.66 inch with a plurality of spaced apart open-end slots  40 . Each of the open-end slots  40  initiate from and extend from the leading edge  34   a  in a direction perpendicular to the leading edge  34   a  to terminate at a terminal end of the slot  40 . The plurality of open-end slots  40  preferably includes a central slot with two lateral slots disposed equidistantly about the central slot. The lateral slots each have a slot length that is preferably greater than the slot length of the central slot. 
     In a preferred fluid deflection member  30 , the leading edge  34   b  of the second tab  32   b  preferably defines a width smaller than the leading edge  34   a  of the first tab  32   a  with a central linear edge portion and two lateral linear edge portions disposed about the central portion. The leading edge  34   b  of the second tab  32   b  is preferably configured such that the central linear edge portion is closer to the leading edge  34   a  of the first tab  32   a  than the two lateral linear edge portions of the second leading edge  34   b . The second tab  32   b  also preferably includes a central closed formed slot  42  extending in a direction perpendicular to the leading edge. Moreover, in another preferred aspect, the trailing edge  36   b  of the second tab  32   b  includes a pair of open-ended slots  44  disposed about the central linear edge portion at the leading edge  34   b  and the central slot  42 . The open-ended slots  44  initiate from the trailing edge  36   b  toward the leading edge  34   b  of the second tab  32   b.    
     The one or more tabs  32  can be integrally formed with or affixed, directly or indirectly, to the housing  12 . For example, the tabs  32   a ,  32   b  can be affixed to or integrally formed with the preferred annular boss  28 . More preferably, the tabs  32   a ,  32   b  are formed with an extend from an annular base  46  which is preferably affixed internally to the annular boss  28  of the housing  12 . Accordingly, the annular base  46  of the fluid deflection member  30  is dimensioned to be centered within the annular boss  28  and moreover is preferably dimensioned to define and maintain the unencumbered fluid flow path of the sprinkler assembly  10 . With reference to  FIGS.  1 A and  1 B , the fluid deflection member  30  is oriented with respect to the frame arms  27   a ,  27   b . In particular, the tabs  32   a ,  32   b  are preferably located so as be perpendicular to the frame arms  27   a ,  27   b . The frame arms  27   a ,  27   b  are preferably disposed in and aligned with one another along a second plane P 2  that is defined by the central longitudinal axis X-−X and a vertical axis Z-−Z which extends perpendicular to the first plane P 1 . Accordingly, the fluid deflection member  30  is oriented such that the first and second planes P 1 , P 2  are perpendicular to one another with their intersection aligned along the central longitudinal sprinkler axis X-−X. In the preferred geometry of the fluid deflection member  30 , the deflection member  30  is symmetrically bisected by the second plane P 2 . In the preferred installation of the sprinkler assembly  10 , the first plane P 1  is oriented parallel to the floor or ceiling with the first tab  32   a  above the second tab  32   b  and the frame arms  27  vertically aligned with one another and the second plane P 2  disposed perpendicular to the floor or ceiling. 
     The housing  12  and the fluid control assembly  100  define and maintain the preferred unencumbered fluid flow path of the preferred assembly  10  by keeping operational components clear of the fluid flow path upon sprinkler operation. Referring again to  FIGS.  1 A and  1 B , a preferred embodiment of the fluid control assembly  100  includes a seal subassembly  102  and a fluid flow tube  104  which forms a discharge orifice end  106  opposite the seal subassembly  102 . Abutting the discharge orifice end  106  is a support subassembly  110  which forms the preferred ejectable member of the fluid control assembly  100 . Generally, the ejectable support subassembly  110  includes a post member  112  with a projection member  114  affixed to the post member  112  that extends radially outward from the post member  112 . Within the housing  12  is an internal contact surface or shelf  26  formed proximate the outlet opening  24 . Adjacent the contact shelf  26 , the internal surface of the housing  12  preferably includes a formed axially extending channel  62  proximate the outlet opening  24  contiguous with the internal shelf  26 . The projection member  114  is received within the channel  62  to axially and rotationally guide the support subassembly  110  and the rest of the fluid control assembly  100  toward the internal contact shelf  26  upon thermal actuation of the sprinkler assembly. The post member  112  is ejected out of the outlet opening  24  to bring the projection member  114  in contact with the internal shelf  26  so as to impart a rotation on the support subassembly  110  and pivot the support subassembly  110  out of the fluid flow path from the outlet opening  24  to the fluid deflection member  30 . 
     Shown in  FIGS.  3 A and  3 B  are detailed partial cross-sectional views of the fluid discharge end  10   b  of the sprinkler assembly  10  of  FIGS.  1 ,  1 A and  1 B  showing a preferred structural and dynamic relationship defined by a preferred mechanical interface between the support subassembly  110  and the internal surface of the housing  12 . Although the tubular housing  12  can be formed as a single unitary structure, the tubular housing is more preferably formed by the interconnection of two or more tubular housing components. For example, the housing  12  preferably includes an externally threaded body  50  forming the fluid discharge end  10   b , another externally threaded tubular component  52  forming the fluid intake end  10   a , with an intermediate internally threaded tubular component  54  interconnecting the fluid inlet and discharge end components  50 ,  52 . The components of the housing  12  can be joined by alternate means or configurations provided the assembly provides for the internal conduit  18  and fluid intake and discharge ends  10   a ,  10   b  as described herein. The fluid discharge end  10   b  of the housing  12  preferably includes the preferred externally threaded body  50 , as shown in  FIGS.  3 A and  3 B , with an internal surface  60  in which the preferred axially extending channel  62  is formed with the preferred internal contact shelf  26  between the channel  62  and the outlet opening  24 . The channel  62  is dimensioned and configured to accommodate the projection member  114  of the support subassembly  110  and guide its axial translation toward the internal contact shelf  26  and otherwise constrain angular rotation of the support subassembly  110  about the sprinkler axis X-−X. In an alternate embodiment of the sprinkler  10 , the internal surface  60  can include the affixed projection member and the support assembly  110  can include the channel formation with an appropriately located contact shelf or surface. In an inverse cooperative relationship, the projection member and channel would axially guide the support subassembly  110  and its shelf formation toward the projection member and resist angular rotation of the support subassembly  110  about the sprinkler axis X-−X for its ejection and pivot out of the fluid flow path in a manner as previously described. 
     In the preferred embodiments shown, the recessed channel region  62  is defined by a depth DP measured in the radial direction preferably from the central axis X-−X, a width WD 1  measured perpendicular to the radial direction between a pair of channel sidewalls  64  and its axial length LD which is preferably 3.5 to 4 times greater than the width WD 1 . The width WD 1  is sufficiently broad to permit axial translation of the projection member  114  within the channel  62  to contact the internal contact surface  26  and sufficiently narrow to limit or otherwise inhibit and more preferably prevent rotation of the support subassembly  110  about the sprinkler axis X-−X and the relative rotation between the support subassembly  110  and the outer housing  12 . The channel  62  is preferably located so as to be centered between the frame arms  27   a ,  27   b  to locate the pivot for the support subassembly  110  that is centered between the frame arms  27   a ,  27   b . The width WD 1  of the channel  62  is greater than a width WD 2  of the projection member  114  and preferably 10-30% greater than the width of the projection member  114  and more preferably 10-15% greater than the width WD 2  of the projection member  114 . In a preferred embodiment in which the channel width WD 1  is preferably no more than 1.25 times the width WD 2  of the projection member  114  and more preferably 1.2 to 1.15 times the width WD 2  of the projection member  114 . The depth DP of the channel  62  preferably increases in the axial direction toward the internal shelf  26 . In another preferred aspect, the preferred channel  62  defines one or more dimensional relationships with other features of the externally threaded body  50 , for example, the channel width and length define preferred respective ratios with the diameter DIA of the outlet opening  24 . For example, a preferred outlet diameter-to-channel width ratio (DIA:WD 1 ) preferably ranges from 3.5:1 to 4:1 and is preferably 3.75:1. A preferred channel length-to-outlet diameter ratio (LD:DIA) preferably ranges from 1:1 to 1.1:1. In a preferred embodiment, the outlet diameter DIA is 0.75 inch. 
     Shown in  FIGS.  4  and  4 A  are various views of a preferred support subassembly  110  for use in the flow control assembly  100 . The post member  112  preferably includes a cylindrical body portion  120  having a first diameter D 1  and a cylindrical head portion  122  of a second diameter D 2  smaller than the first diameter with a neck portion  124  formed between the body and head portions  120 ,  122  having a third diameter D 3  greater than the second diameter D 2 . Alternatively, the diameters post member  112  can be equal to one another or vary from one another in any manner provided the post member  112  provides for the support and ejection of the support assembly  110  in a manner as described herein. The body portion  120  is preferably a right circular cylinder but can define alternate geometries. For example, a preferred embodiment of the body portion can include a chamfered portion  126  as shown in  FIG.  4   , which can offset the center of gravity of the post member from the sprinkler axis X-−X to facilitate the pivoted rotation of the subassembly  110 . More preferably, the chamfer is diametrically aligned opposite the projection  114  of the subassembly. The support subassembly  110  remains generally coaxially centered with respect to the sprinkler axis X-−X from its position in the unactuated state of the sprinkler assembly  10  through the axial displacement of the support subassembly  110  in the actuated state of the sprinkler assembly  10  until the projection member  114  contacts the internal contact surface  26 . In a preferred aspect of the structural and dynamic relationship between the housing  12  and the support subassembly  110 , the diameter D 1  of the body portion  120  defines a maximum external diameter of the post member  112  and is smaller than the internal diameter DIA of the outlet opening  24  to define an internal diameter-to-maximum external diameter ratio (DIA:D 1 ) that ranges from 1.1:1 to 1:1. 
     In the support subassembly  110 , the projection member  114  preferably extends radially from the post member  112  and more preferably from the neck portion  124 . As shown, the projection member  114  is preferably a separate component disposed and secured about the head and neck portions  122 ,  124  of the post member  112 . The preferred projection member  114  includes an arcuate portion  116   a  that at least partially circumscribes and more preferably completely circumscribes the neck portion  124  of the post member  112  and a rectilinear portion  116   b  extending radially from the arcuate portion. The support subassembly  110  preferably includes a pip cap  130  centered within the cylindrical body  120  to support the thermally responsive trigger  39  in the unactuated state of the sprinkler assembly. The support subassembly  110  is seated against the thermally responsive trigger  39  to locate the fluid flow assembly  100  within the housing  12  such that the projection member  114  is within the channel  62  and axially spaced from the internal contact surface  26 . In the unactuated state of the assembly, the seal subassembly  102  forms a fluid-tight sealed engagement with the internal sealing surface  22 . Together, the post member  112  and the pip cap  130  preferably substantially fill the outlet opening  24  substantially concealing the internal conduit  18  of the housing  12 . In the actuated state of the sprinkler assembly  10  upon thermal actuation of the trigger  39  and ejection of the support subassembly  110 , the remainder of the fluid control assembly  100  is axially translated in which the seal subassembly  102  is spaced from the sealing surface  22 . 
     In the unactuated state of the sprinkler assembly  10 , the thermally responsive trigger  39  is seated preferably at a fixed distance from the outlet opening  24 , as shown in  FIGS.  1  and  1 A , to transfer a compressive load to the fluid control assembly  100  and form the sealed engagement at the internal sealing surface  22 . In the preferred embodiment, the trigger  39  comprises a frangible glass bulb having one end preferably seated at or proximate the frame boss  28  under load from one or more screw members  41  threadedly engaged with the frame boss  28 . Alternatively, the trigger  39  can be configured as a soldered mechanical assembly seated proximate the frame boss  28 . The trigger  39  has a nominal operating temperature and thermal sensitivity to define the thermal responsiveness of the sprinkler at which the sprinkler actuates in response to a fire. In preferred embodiments of the sprinkler assembly  10 , the trigger  39  has a preferred nominal operating temperature rating that ranges between 125° F. to 225° F. (52° C.-107° C.) and more preferably is any one of: 155° F. (68° C.); 175° F. (79° C.) or 200° F. (93° C.). The thermal sensitivity of a trigger assembly and sprinkler is measured or characterized by Response Time Index (“RTI”), measured in units of (ft·s) 1/2  [(m·s) 1/2 ]. An RTI of 145-635 (ft·s) 1/2  [80 (m·s) 1/2  to 350 (m·s) 1/2 ] defines a “Standard Response Sprinkler and an RTI equal to or less than 90 (ft·s) 1/2  [50 (m·s) 1/2 ] defines a “Quick Response Sprinkler.” Preferred embodiment of the sprinkler assembly are configured as a quick response sprinkler. 
     In the preferred embodiment of the sprinkler assembly  10  shown in  FIGS.  1 ,  1 A- 1 B and  3 A , the glass bulb trigger  39  is seated against a preferred yoke member  200  to align the glass bulb trigger  39  along the central sprinkler axis X-−X and the preferred unencumbered fluid flow path. Generally, the preferred yoke member  200  is configured in a manner similar to the yoke shown and described in U.S. Pat. No. 10,238,903. The preferred yoke member  200  includes a crossbar portion  202  with a central region  204  for seating the end of the glass bulb trigger  39  opposite the support subassembly  110 . The crossbar portion  202  also include two end regions  206   a ,  206   b  disposed about the central region  204  that are each subject to a load force to axially load the glass bulb  39  and fluid control assembly  100 . In a preferred embodiment, the crossbar portion  202  is preferably formed with the central region  204  located axially further away from the outlet opening  24  than the two end regions  206   a ,  206   b . The crossbar portion  202  is preferably aligned with the frame arms  27   a ,  27   b  in the vertically extending plane P 2 . The assembly includes two load screws  41  threadedly engaged with the annular boss  28  to apply a compressive force respectively to the end regions  206   a ,  206   b  of the crossbar portions  202 . The yoke member  200  preferably includes an extension member  208  extending between the two end regions  206   a ,  206   b  of the yoke member  200 . The extension member  208  preferably extends from the crossbar portion  202  so as to be skewed with respect to the central longitudinal sprinkler axis X-−X as shown in  FIG.  1 B . The extension member  208  can define a center of gravity of the yoke member  200  that is off-set from the central longitudinal sprinkler axis X-−X to facilitate rotation and clearance of the yoke member  200  out of the fluid flow path upon sprinkler upon sprinkler actuation. 
     In a preferred horizontal installation of the sprinkler assembly  10 , upon sprinkler thermal actuation in which the trigger  39  ruptures, the preferred support subassembly  110  is ejected horizontally parallel to the floor and the seal subassembly  102  and fluid flow tube  104  translate horizontally toward the outlet opening  24 . When the projection member  114  contacts the internal contact surface  26 , the support assembly  110  pivots between the frame arms  27   a ,  27   b  about an axis parallel to Z-−Z axis and clear of any sprinkler structure to avoid any lodgment of the support subassembly  110 . With the support subassembly  110  ejected clear of the sprinkler assembly  10 , the inlet opening  20  and the discharge orifice are fully open and the preferred unencumbered fluid flow path are clear for flow of firefighting fluid therethrough to impact the fluid deflection member  30 . 
     The remaining components of the preferred fluid control assembly  100 , including the seal assembly  102  and the fluid flow tube  104  can each be configured and assembled using multiple components. For example, as shown in  FIG.  1 A , the seal assembly  102  preferably includes a spring disc  101  affixed about a base  103  having an array of legs  103   a  extending therefrom. In the unactuated state of the sprinkler assembly, the spring disc  101  forms the fluid tight sealed contact with the internal seal surface  22  of the housing. The seal assembly  102  can be configured as any one of the embodiments of “spring support assembly” shown and described in the dry sprinkler assembly of U.S. Pat. No. 8,636,075. The fluid flow tube can be a single tube or made from multiple tubes. The support subassembly  110  is preferably received within the discharge orifice  106  in an abutting engagement. The seal assembly can be biased in a direction away from the sealing surface  22  by an internal spring member disposed about the first tubular member (not shown). Alternatively, the fluid control assembly  100  can include one or more internal link and plug components shown in U.S. Pat. No. 7,921,928. 
     In the actuated and open state of the sprinkler assembly  10 , the displacement and translation of the preferred fluid control assembly  100  ejects the supporting subassembly  110  and locates the discharge orifice  106  within the body  50  at the fluid discharge end  10   b  of the housing  12  proximate the outlet opening  24 . Fluid flowing through the inlet opening  20  flows at a preferred operating pressure, through the fluid flow tube  104 , out the discharge orifice  106  and the outlet opening  24  along the preferred unencumbered fluid flow path to define the fluid discharge column that is acted upon by the axially spaced fluid deflection member  30 . The discharge orifice is preferably configured and dimensioned to define the desired discharge characteristics of the sprinkler. Accordingly, the discharge orifice  106  can be quantified by a preferred nominal K-factor. 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). 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 though the sprinkler body. Generally, the discharge characteristics of the sprinkler body define a preferred nominal K-factor in a range of 4 [GPM/(psi) 1/2 ] to 50 [GPM/(psi) 1/2 ]. Preferred embodiments of the sprinkler body define a nominal K-factor which preferably ranges from a nominal 4.0 [GPM/(psi) 1/2 ] to 14.0 [GPM/(psi) 1/2 ]. More preferably, the sprinkler body defines a K-factor of any one of 4.0 [GPM/(psi) 1/2 ]; 4.2 [GPM/(psi) 1/2 ] or 4.4 [GPM/(psi) 1/2 ]. Alternatively, the sprinkler body can define K-factors smaller or larger than the preferred range depending upon the application. 
     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.