Patent Description:
Buildings and other areas commonly include sprinklers configured to provide fire exposure protection. In the event of a fire, the sprinklers are configured to dispense a fluid so as to suppress or extinguish the fire or to protect building elements from exposure to heat radiating from the fire. A known sprinkler is described in <CIT>.

According to the invention there is defined a sprinkler as defined in claim <NUM>.

At least one aspect of the present disclosure is a fire exposure protection sprinkler assembly configured to provide fire exposure protection for an area. The fire exposure protection sprinkler assembly includes a fluid supply line configured to provide fire exposure protection fluid to the fire exposure protection sprinkler assembly, and a fire exposure protection sprinkler including a body coupled to the fluid supply line and configured to receive the fire exposure protection fluid, a sealing assembly configured to unseal in response to a fire such that fire exposure protection fluid may flow from the fluid supply line to the fire exposure protection sprinkler assembly, and a housing including a pair of legs arranged opposite the housing of each other, with each of the legs having an aperture. The fire exposure protection sprinkler assembly also includes a deflection assembly including a pair of guide pins rigidly coupled to a deflector, with each of the guide pins slidably coupled to the housing and disposed within each of the apertures of the legs, wherein the deflection assembly is configured to extend from the housing, wherein, upon the deflection assembly receiving the flow of the fire exposure protection fluid and extending from the housing, the pair of guide pins are arranged at a first oblique angle relative to a horizontal axis and the deflector is arranged at a second oblique angle relative to a vertical axis.

Another aspect of the present disclosure includes the first oblique angle relative to the horizontal axis being equal to the second oblique angle relative to the vertical axis.

Another aspect of the present disclosure includes the first oblique angle relative to the horizontal axis being of a different measure than the second oblique angle relative to the vertical axis.

Another aspect of the present disclosure includes the deflector having a first surface configured to receive the fire exposure protection fluid from the fluid supply line, and a back wall adjacent the first surface, with the first surface extending from a base of the back wall, wherein the back wall is configured to direct the fire exposure protection fluid to the area.

Another aspect of the present disclosure includes the deflection assembly configured to extend below the ceiling upon the first surface of the deflector receiving the flow of the fire exposure protection fluid.

Another aspect of the present disclosure includes the deflection assembly configured to extend below the ceiling upon the release of a cover plate configured to cover the recess.

Another aspect of the present disclosure includes each of the guide pins having a substantially cylindrical geometry and the apertures of the housing have a geometry configured to accommodate and permit movement of the each of the guide pins.

Another aspect of the present disclosure includes each of the guide pins having a head configured opposite the guide pins from the deflector, wherein the head of each of the guide pins has a diameter greater than the diameter of the apertures of the housing.

Another aspect of the present disclosure includes the deflector having a pair of arms extending laterally from opposite sides of the deflector.

Another aspect of the present disclosure includes a baffle configured to surround at least a portion of the deflector.

Another aspect of the present disclosure includes the body having a hexagonal portion coupled to the housing, wherein the housing is coupled to the hexagonal portion of the body such that each of the apertures of the legs of the housing have a footprint on the hexagonal portion adjacent opposite sides of the hexagonal portion.

At least one aspect of the present disclosure is a fire exposure protection sprinkler assembly configured to provide fire exposure protection for an area. The fire exposure protection sprinkler assembly includes a fluid supply line configured to provide fire exposure protection fluid to the fire exposure protection sprinkler assembly and a fire exposure protection sprinkler. The fire exposure protection sprinkler includes a body coupled to the fluid supply line and configured to receive the fire exposure protection fluid, a sealing assembly configured to unseal in response to a fire such that fire exposure protection fluid may flow from the fluid supply line to the fire exposure protection sprinkler assembly, a housing having a pair of legs each of the legs having an aperture, and a deflection assembly including a pair of guide pins rigidly coupled to a deflector, with each of the guide pins slidably coupled to the housing and disposed within each of the apertures of the legs, wherein the deflection assembly is configured to extend from the housing upon the deflector receiving a flow of the fire exposure protection fluid from the fluid supply line, wherein at least a portion of the deflection assembly is surrounded by a baffle.

Another aspect of the present disclosure includes the baffle having one or more vents configured to permit airflow therethrough.

Another aspect of the present disclosure includes each of the guide pins having a substantially cylindrical geometry and the apertures of the housing having a geometry configured to accommodate and permit movement of the each of the guide pins.

Another aspect of the present disclosure includes the deflector comprises a pair of arms extending laterally from opposite sides of the deflector.

At least one aspect of the present disclosure is a fire exposure protection sprinkler including a body coupled to a fluid supply line and configured to receive fire exposure protection fluid, a sealing assembly configured to unseal in response to a fire such that fire exposure protection fluid may flow from the fluid supply line to the fire exposure protection sprinkler, a housing including a pair of legs, each of the legs having an aperture, a deflection assembly having a pair of guide pins rigidly coupled to a deflector, with each of the guide pins slidably coupled to the housing and disposed within each of the apertures of the legs, wherein the deflection assembly is configured to extend from the housing upon the deflector receiving a flow of the fire exposure protection fluid from the fluid supply line, and a baffle configured to surround at least a portion of the deflector and the deflection assembly.

Before turning to the figures, which illustrate certain examples, it is noted that the present disclosure is not limited to the details or methodology set forth in the description or illustrated in the figures. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of description only and should not be regarded as limiting.

The present disclosure generally refers to a fire sprinkler. The present disclosure refers to a concealed fire sprinkler configured to disperse water from a sprinkler over a desired area.

Referring generally to the figures, fire exposure protection systems include sprinklers which are configured to inhibit or permit flow of fluid (typically water, but also in some applications fire suppressant fluid) depending upon conditions. In the instance of a fire or detected conditions that may be indicative of a fire (e.g., increased heat, smoke, etc.), the sprinklers are configured to permit the flow of fluid such that the fluid may contact a deflector and be dispersed so as to provide exposure protection to a window and/or wall. In some aspects, the sprinklers may be configured to disperse water or fire exposure protection fluid over a specific area, for example a window and/or wall. In order to accomplish fire exposure protection for a given area (e.g., a window and/or wall), sprinklers can include components configured to direct and deflect fire exposure protection fluid accordingly. For example, if a sprinkler were configured to provide fire exposure protection for a window, then the sprinkler may include components configured to deflect fire exposure protection fluid <NUM>° over the given window surface.

In some aspects, concealed sprinklers are configured to discharge and deflect a fluid over a desired area, which may include a window and/or wall. In the instance of a window, the implementation of one or more concealed sprinklers allows for use of a less expensive window with a lower fire rating, and can ultimately lower costs for construction as well as replacement or installation of windows. Various different concealed sprinklers may be configured to direct fluid in different directions through various means. Additionally, concealed sprinklers are often implemented in near proximity one another. In order for adjacent concealed sprinklers to function properly, it is critical that fluid only be deflected over the desired area (e.g., the desired window and/or wall) as errant fluid spray (also known as fluid impingement) may cause adjacent sprinklers to malfunction or not function. Accordingly, concealed sprinklers often implement components configured to deflect fluid spray to a desired area (e.g., window and/or wall) as well as components to contain any errant fluid spray and prevent fluid impingement on adjacent sprinklers.

Referring now to <FIG>, an example of a concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> is shown. In some aspects, the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> may be include additional components, such as those shown in <FIG>, with said additional components configured to accommodate both inactivated and deployed positions of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM>, with actuation of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> from the inactivated position to the deployed position corresponding to the detection and/or identification of a fire or other circumstances, according to some aspects. The deployed position of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> is configured such that components of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> may permit and direct the flow of a fire exposure protection fluid and/or a fire suppression fluid over a specific window and/or wall. The inactivated position may correspond to the disposition of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> within a recess of a wall, ceiling, or other structure. In some aspects, the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> may be further concealed within a recess of a wall or ceiling by a plate or other component configured to cover the recess. When the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> is activated, a plate covering the recess in which the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> is displaced and one or more components of the concealed sprinkler assembly are configured to deploy below the recess. For example, a plate covering the recess may be configured to decouple from the ceiling in response to an environment reaching or exceeding a temperature threshold or upon detection of smoke. Then, a sealing assembly is displaced and fluid flow is permitted from the fluid supply line to the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> and components thereof. As fluid flows from a fluid supply line (not shown in figures) to the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM>, the fluid contacts the one or more components extending from the recess, with the fluid being deflected in a desired direction (or over a desired range/area) in order to provide fire exposure protection for a given window and/or wall. However, in some aspects the deployment of one or more components may be driven by a flow of fire exposure protection fluid. For example, the components configured to extend from the recess may deploy from a retracted position to an extended position upon receiving fluid flow from the fluid supply line. Further to this example, the transition of the components from the retracted position to the extended position may displace a cap or covering of the recess, thus allowing for the components to extend below the recess.

In some aspects, the activation of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> may include a fire or other circumstances causing components within or adjacent the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> to initiate the activation process. For example, a fire within a given area may cause a cover to the recess housing the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> to be displaced, followed by one or more components of the concealed sprinkler assembly to deploy ad extend from the recess. The displacement of the cover of the recess may correspond to an increase in temperature within a given area (e.g., from a fire), or from a Subsequently, a fire may cause a sealing assembly to break or rupture (e.g., a link melting), thus initiating the flow of a fluid from a fluid supply line and to the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM>. Accordingly, the flow of the fluid may contact one or more components of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> deployed below the recess.

The concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> is shown to include a body <NUM>. The body <NUM> defines an opening <NUM> configured concentrically about the central axis <NUM>. In some aspects, the opening <NUM> may be of a cylindrical geometry, and may extend into and/or through the body <NUM> along the central axis <NUM>. The opening <NUM> of the body <NUM> may be configured to receive fluid from a fluid supply line, according to some aspects. The body <NUM> may also be configured to couple with a fluid supply line or other supply means such that fluid may reach the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM>. The body <NUM> may also have various geometries according to some aspects, with the various geometries configured such that the body, and subsequently the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> may be accommodated by various recesses. For example, the opening <NUM> of the body <NUM> may be configured in different sizes or geometries so as to accommodate various fire exposure protection fluid flow or coupling to various fluid supply lines depending on space constraints within a recess or other concealed space.

The body <NUM> is further shown to include a sealing assembly <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. In some aspects, the sealing assembly <NUM> may include a portion of the body <NUM>, and may also include other components coupled to said portion of the body <NUM>. For example, in some aspects the sealing assembly <NUM> may include one or more of a spring, a button, a set screw, and levers. In some aspects, such components may be configured at least partially within the opening of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM>. Additionally, the sealing assembly <NUM> may be configured to have a geometry that may be accommodated by components of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> and/or the recess in which the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> is configured. For example, the sealing assembly <NUM> may be configured such that it is contained within the footprint of the body <NUM> so as to maximize spatial efficiency of the recess and the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> thereof. Following the displacement of a cover to the recess and the deployment of one or more components of the concealed sprinkler assembly below the recess, the sealing assembly may restrict or permit the flow of fire exposure protection fluid. The sealing assembly <NUM> can be configured to permit the flow of fire exposure protection fluid upon the unsealing or rupture of the sealing assembly <NUM>, which may be caused by heat from a fire. For example, upon the sealing assembly <NUM> becoming unsealed by way of rupture, melting, or other possible processes, fluid may begin to flow from the fluid supply line and thus contact a portion of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> deployed beyond the recess thus directing the fluid to a desired window and/or wall.

The body <NUM> is shown to be coupled to a housing <NUM>, with an upper portion of the housing <NUM> coupled to a lower portion of the body <NUM> (the lower portion of the body <NUM> being opposite the body <NUM> from the portion that can be configured to couple with a fluid supply line or other components). The housing <NUM> is configured to have an opening <NUM> such that at least a portion of the body <NUM> may extend into and/or through the opening <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. For example, in some aspects, a portion of the body <NUM> may include components of the sealing assembly <NUM>, and as mentioned previously may be configured within the footprint of the body <NUM> (e.g., as the sealing assembly <NUM> is shown in <FIG>) which may be configured within the opening <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. Additionally, in some aspects the sealing assembly <NUM> may be configured to decouple from the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> such that the sealing assembly <NUM> is decoupled from the body <NUM>. The concealed sprinkler assembly, already in a deployed position with any plate configured to cover the recess displaced, may then begin to deflect and disperse fluid so as to provide fire exposure protection to a window and/or wall.

The housing <NUM> is shown to include a pair of legs <NUM> extending in a direction opposite that of the housing <NUM> that is engaged to couple with the body <NUM>. As shown and described, the legs <NUM> are configured substantially opposite the housing <NUM> and the opening <NUM> from one another (e.g., <NUM>° opposite the housing one another). However, in some aspects the legs <NUM> may be configured alternatively such that the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> may have a size and geometry compatible with a recess or other concealed space. Each of the legs <NUM> is shown to have a foot <NUM> (also referred to as feet <NUM>) with one foot <NUM> arranged at the proximal end of each leg <NUM>. The feet <NUM> are configured substantially perpendicular to the legs <NUM>, with the feet <NUM> extending toward the central axis <NUM> of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> (e.g., the feet extend substantially toward the opposite leg <NUM> and foot <NUM>). In some aspects, the feet <NUM> and the legs <NUM> from which the feet <NUM> extend may have alternate configurations and/or geometries. For example, the feet <NUM> may be configured such that fluid dispensed by the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> does not contact the legs <NUM> or the feet <NUM>. Additionally, the legs <NUM> and the feet <NUM> may be sized and have geometries configured so as to accommodate and function cooperatively with additional components of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> as shown and subsequently described.

Each of the feet <NUM> are shown to include an aperture <NUM>, with the aperture <NUM> configured in a substantially central portion of the feet <NUM>. The apertures <NUM> of the feet <NUM> are shown to have a substantially circular geometry, but may also have alternative geometries in some examples. The apertures <NUM> are shown to retain guide pins <NUM>, with each aperture <NUM> configured to retain one guide pin <NUM>. The apertures <NUM> and guide pins <NUM> are sized such that linear movement of the guide pins <NUM> is permitted within the apertures <NUM>, with the linear movement such that the guide pins <NUM> extend substantially straight as movement of the guide pins <NUM> occurs while retained by the apertures <NUM>. As described previously, movement of the guide pins <NUM> within the apertures <NUM> may be driven by activation of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> (following the displacement of any cover of the recess) or due to gravity. Such activation of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> may include a mechanical release in which components are decoupled such that movement of the guide pins <NUM> is permitted within the apertures <NUM>, followed by components of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> contacted by a flow of fire exposure protection fluid after decoupling of the sealing assembly <NUM>. In some aspects, the length and thickness of the guide pins <NUM> may vary according to various aspects of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> and the recess in which the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> is disposed, such as longer guide pins <NUM> implemented for a deeper recess. Additionally, in some aspects the apertures <NUM> may have alternate geometries, for example elliptical, and are pitched to as to angle the guide pins <NUM> at an oblique angle to the central axis <NUM>. The apertures <NUM> may also be sized so as to permit movement of the guide pins <NUM> within the apertures <NUM>, to pitch the guide pins <NUM> so as to form an oblique angle with the central axis <NUM>.

Each of the guide pins <NUM> can include a head (not shown), with the head having a size and geometry such that movement of the head through the apertures <NUM> is not mechanically permitted. Accordingly, each of the guide pins <NUM> is retained within the each of the apertures <NUM> thus preventing dissociation from the housing <NUM> of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM>. In some aspects, the head of the guide pins <NUM> is configured such that the head has a greater diameter (or other geometry with a greater width that than of the apertures <NUM>) than other portions of the guide pins <NUM> that of a size that movement thereof is permitted within the apertures <NUM>. Accordingly, the head of each of the guide pins <NUM> can define the deployed position of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM>, which includes the guide pins <NUM> extending from the apertures <NUM> as far as mechanically permitted. Although not shown, the deployed position is thus defined as the guide pins <NUM> positioned such that the head of each of the guide pins <NUM> contacts the feet <NUM> of the legs <NUM> of the housing <NUM> such that no further movement of the guide pins <NUM> in the direction opposite the body <NUM> is permitted. The guide pins <NUM> are coupled to a deflector <NUM> as shown in <FIG>.

The deflector <NUM> is coupled to each of the guide pins <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the deflector includes a pair of apertures <NUM>, with each of the apertures <NUM> configured to receive a portion of each guide pin <NUM> opposite the head of the guide pin. The guide pins <NUM> may be coupled to the deflector <NUM> through a variety of mechanisms and/or means including, for example, welding, riveting, or other coupling means. In some aspects, the guide pins <NUM> and the deflector <NUM> may be a single component manufactured such that coupling of the guide pins <NUM> to the deflector <NUM> is not required. In some aspects, a portion of the guide pins <NUM> may protrude from the pair of apertures <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. In some aspects, the inactivated position of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> includes the deflector <NUM> arranged such that contact between the deflector <NUM> and the feet <NUM> of the housing <NUM> prevents further movement of the guide pins <NUM> within the apertures <NUM> toward the body <NUM>. In some aspects, the inactivated position includes a head <NUM> of the guide pins <NUM> contacting a portion of the body <NUM> thus preventing further upward movement of the deflector <NUM> toward the body <NUM>.

Upon activation of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM>, the deflector <NUM> is configured to transition from the retracted state of the inactivated position (as shown in <FIG>) to the extended position of the deployed position (not shown) with such transition facilitated by movement of the guide pins <NUM> within the apertures <NUM>. The transition from the inactivated position to the deployed position further includes the deflector <NUM> moving in a direction opposite the body <NUM> as the guide pins <NUM> move within the apertures <NUM> until the head of each of the guide pins <NUM> contacts the feet <NUM> thus defining the deployed position of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM>. As described previously, movement of the deflector <NUM> in the direction opposite the body <NUM> following activation of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> may be driven by a mechanical release or decoupling. The deployment of the deflector below the recess may be followed by a flow of a fluid (e.g., fire exposure protection or suppression fluid flowing from a fluid supply line) contacting the deflector <NUM> in the deployed position and continuing to contact the deflector <NUM> in order to provide fire exposure protection to a window and/or wall. In some aspects, the deployment of the deflector <NUM> and the guide pins <NUM> below the recess may be driven by a flow of fluid permitted following the decoupling of the sealing assembly <NUM>. According to the invention, the deflector <NUM> is deployed such that the guide pins <NUM> form an oblique angle with the central axis <NUM>, thus pitching the deflector <NUM> in a downward direction. Accordingly, such an arrangement of the guide pins <NUM> and the deflector <NUM> can be advantageous as the deflector <NUM> may disperse fluid over a greater area (e.g., a bigger window or windows) in such an arrangement.

In the deployed position, the deflector <NUM> is configured to extend from the recess in which the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> is configured. For example, if the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> is configured within a recess in a ceiling, the deployed position includes the deflector extending from the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> within the recess below the surface of the ceiling. Accordingly, upon activation of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> (e.g., following displacement of the cover of the recess), the sealing assembly <NUM> is configured to unseal (for example, decouple or rupture) such that the flow of fluid from the fluid supply line is permitted. The flow of the fluid is configured to proceed substantially along the central axis <NUM>. For example, if the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> is configured vertically within a recess of a ceiling, the unsealing of the sealing assembly <NUM> would permit the flow of fluid in a substantially vertical direction moving from the body <NUM> (with the body <NUM> and/or the opening <NUM> thereof coupled to and/or otherwise accommodating the fluid supply line) toward the deflector <NUM> deployed below the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> and extending from the recess. The deflector <NUM> is configured to continuously receive the flow of fluid and disperse said fluid over a desired window and/or wall corresponding with the geometry of the deflector <NUM>.

The flow of fluid along the central axis <NUM> is configured to contact the deflector <NUM>, with the origin of the flow within the recess (e.g., the coupling point of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> with the fluid supply line) and the flow proceeding along the central axis <NUM> from within the recess to beyond the recess, where the flow contacts the top surface of the deflector <NUM>. The flow of the fluid, upon contact with the deflector <NUM>, is dispersed so as to provide fire exposure protection for a desired window and/or wall. The dispersal of the fluid by the deflector <NUM> is dependent upon the pressure and velocity of the flow of the fluid as well as the geometry of the deflector <NUM>. Generally, the deflector <NUM> is configured at an oblique angle (e.g., in some aspects, approximately <NUM>° relative to the central axis <NUM> (and the direction of the flow of the fluid). Additionally, according to the invention, the guide pins <NUM> form an oblique angle with the central axis <NUM>. The flow of fluid contacting the deflector <NUM> manipulates the deflector (and accordingly the guide pins) such that the guide pins form the oblique angle with the central axis <NUM>. Additionally, in some aspects the guide pins <NUM> and/or the deflector <NUM> may have a geometry or other structure (e.g., a weighted portion) configured to manipulate the guide pins <NUM> such that an oblique angle is formed with the central axis <NUM>. The geometry of the deflector <NUM> determines the dispersal of the fluid for a given window and/or wall. For example, in some aspects the deflector <NUM> may be configured to deflect and ultimately disperse the fluid to a window and/or wall. In such an example, the window and/or wall is not within the footprint of the recess accommodating the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM>, and thus direct flow of fluid from the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> within the recess would not be dispersed to the window and/or wall without deflection via the deflector <NUM>.

The deflector <NUM> may have various geometries in order to provide fire exposure protection (via dispersal of fire exposure protection fluid) to different windows and/or walls. For example, the deflector may include one or more surfaces that are substantially flat and form approximately <NUM>° angles with various surfaces and/or walls of the deflector <NUM>. Such angles may be configured to prevent fluid from being dispersed in various directions, with the dispersal of the fluid contained across a smaller area. Conversely, in some aspects the deflector <NUM> is not substantially flat as that of the deflector <NUM> of <FIG>. The deflector <NUM> may include one or more surfaces having curved geometry and/or topography so as to direct the flow of fluid from the fluid supply line to a specific area. In some aspects, various geometries/topographies may correspond to various desired deflection (and subsequent distribution of fluid) patters, and can be implemented accordingly.

The body <NUM> is shown to have a hexagonal portion <NUM>, with the hexagonal portion <NUM> of the body <NUM> contacting the housing <NUM> in the coupling between the housing <NUM> and the body <NUM>. As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the hexagonal portion <NUM> of the body <NUM> includes a pair of flats <NUM> configured opposite the hexagonal portion <NUM> from one another. In some aspects, the pair of flats <NUM> may be alternate flats of the hexagonal portion <NUM>, so long as the pair of flats <NUM> are configured opposite the hexagonal portion <NUM> from one another.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the footprint of the housing <NUM> and the opening <NUM> thereof are configured within the hexagonal portion <NUM>. Upon coupling of the housing <NUM> and the body <NUM>, the footprint of the housing <NUM> (and any components thereof, such as the pair of legs <NUM>) is configured within the footprint of the body <NUM> (and the hexagonal portion <NUM> thereof). With reference to <FIG>, the apertures <NUM> of the housing are configured to have a footprint adjacent each of the pair of flats <NUM>, with each of the apertures <NUM> disposed adjacent an approximate midpoint of each of the flats <NUM>. Such disposition of the housing <NUM> relative to the hexagonal portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM> ensures that, as shown in <FIG>, two corners of the hexagonal portion <NUM> of the body <NUM> may be accessed for various installation practices.

For example, in some aspects a specific tool may be implements in order to install the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> within a recess of a given wall or ceiling. In some aspects, the hexagonal geometry of the hexagonal portion <NUM> of the body <NUM> may be configured to interface with a corresponding geometry of one or more installation tools. Various configurations of the housing <NUM> about the hexagonal portion <NUM> of the body <NUM> may be necessary in order to ensure proper interfacing between and tools or instruments and the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM>. In order to complete necessary installation steps, a tool may be required to manipulate the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM>. Such a tool may require a specific interface with the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM>, for example two corners of the hexagonal portion <NUM> of the body <NUM>. As shown in the example of <FIG> and <FIG>, the arrangement of the housing <NUM> (and, in <FIG>, the deflector <NUM>) allows for accessibility to two corners of the hexagonal portion <NUM> of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> (e.g., the apertures <NUM> are disposed adjacent opposite corners of the hexagonal portion <NUM>) for interfacing with and installation by one or more tools or instruments.

The arrangement of the housing <NUM> relative to the hexagonal portion <NUM> of the body <NUM> as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, and as described previously may be implemented into various practices. In some aspects, various practices and procedures may be modified so as to control the orientation of the housing <NUM> and the legs <NUM> relative to the body <NUM> and the hexagonal portion <NUM> thereof. For example, with regard to manufacturing and/or assembly of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM>, the body <NUM> may be manipulated such that the housing <NUM> is coupled with the apertures <NUM> having a footprint substantially parallel that of the pair of flats <NUM> of the hexagonal portion. Accordingly, such practices may be implemented into work instructions or other methods in the manufacturing and assembly process done by both workers and automated equipment or systems. In some aspects, systems or equipment may be configured to position the body <NUM> and the housing <NUM> according to the arrangement shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. Additionally, the housing <NUM> and the body <NUM> may be configured as shown in <FIG> for the introduction of the guide pins <NUM> and the deflector <NUM>, which are shown as part of the concealed sprinkler assembly of <FIG>. In some aspects, the assembly of the guide pins <NUM> and the deflector <NUM> with the housing <NUM> and the body <NUM> may require the body <NUM> and the housing <NUM> to be arranged as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>.

Implementation of various processes, procedures, and methods to control the orientation of the housing <NUM> and the legs <NUM> relative to the body <NUM> and the hexagonal portion <NUM> thereof may include various strategies. For example, similar to shown in the example of <FIG>, reference lines may be added to documents and/or drawings in order to indicate proper placement. With regard to production/manufacturing and assembly, reference lines such as those of <FIG> may be implemented with regard to templates and assembly drawings. Fixtures and other manufacturing equipment may also be developed in order to accommodate the desired orientation of the housing <NUM> relative to the body <NUM>. For example, components configured to secure the body and/or housing during production and/or assembly may have geometries that correspond to or complement that of the body <NUM> and the hexagonal portion <NUM> thereof.

Referring now to <FIG>, an alternate concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> is shown. The concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> may be the same as and/or similar to the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. In some aspects, the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> may be installed within a recess of a wall, ceiling, or other surface such that at least a portion of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> is concealed within a recess of said surface. The concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> may be activated upon the displacement of a cover of the recess housing the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM>. Similar to the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> as shown in <FIG>, the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> includes components configured to extend from the recess upon activation of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM>, with such components including one or more guide pins and a deflector, according to one aspect. In some aspects, the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> may be installed in a recess of a wall or ceiling, with said recess being approximately <NUM> inches deep. Additionally, when installed within a ceiling such that the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> may provide fire exposure protection for a window and/or wall the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> has an approximate installation range of up to <NUM> inches (e.g., <NUM>-<NUM> inches) as measured from the window to a center-point of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> (e.g., a vertical axis <NUM> as shown in the example of <FIG>).

The concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> includes a body <NUM>, which may be similar to the body <NUM> as shown and described previously. The body <NUM> may be configured to couple with a fluid supply line such that a fluid may be provided to the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> and ultimately dispersed over an area to provide fire exposure protection. The body <NUM> may have a cylindrical central portion centered on the vertical axis <NUM>, with said cylindrical portion configured to provide fluid communication between an interface of the body <NUM> with a fluid supply line and other components of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM>. Additionally, the body <NUM> includes a hexagonal portion <NUM>, with the hexagonal portion arranged on a lower portion of the body <NUM> (e.g., a portion of the body <NUM> opposite the interface between the body <NUM> and a fluid supply line). The hexagonal portion <NUM> may be configured the same as and/or similarly to the hexagonal portion <NUM> of the body <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. For example, manufacturing, assembling, and installing (as well as other processes associated with the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> may incorporate equipment and/or tools configured to interface with the hexagonal portion <NUM> of the body <NUM>. In some aspects, the hexagonal portion <NUM> may be secured by one or more tools in order to assemble various components of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM>. The concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> may also be manipulated by tools or equipment contacting or interfacing with the hexagonal portion <NUM> in order to be properly installed.

The body <NUM> is coupled to a housing <NUM>, with the housing <NUM> coupled to a lower portion of the body <NUM> adjacent the hexagonal portion <NUM>. In some aspects, a portion of the body <NUM> may be configured to be received by a central portion of the housing <NUM>, for example one or more components of a sealing assembly such as the sealing assembly <NUM> as shown as described in <FIG>. Accordingly, the coupling of the body <NUM> with the housing <NUM> is configured to provide fluid communication therethrough. For example, the arrangement of the housing <NUM> relative to the body <NUM> may be configured to permit the flow of a fluid from a fluid supply line through the body <NUM> and into a central portion of the housing <NUM>. At least a portion of the housing <NUM> may have a substantially cylindrical geometry, with the housing <NUM> centered on the vertical axis <NUM>.

The housing <NUM> is shown to include a pair of legs <NUM> extending from an upper portion of the housing <NUM> (e.g., the portion of the body coupled to the body <NUM>), with each of the legs <NUM> having a foot <NUM> on a distal end thereof. The legs <NUM> are configured substantially opposite the housing <NUM> from one another (e.g., <NUM>° opposite the cylindrical geometry of the housing <NUM>), with the feet <NUM> extending toward the vertical axis <NUM>. The feet <NUM> each include an aperture configured in a central portion of each foot <NUM> (not shown), with the apertures of the feet <NUM> configured the same as or similar to the apertures <NUM> as shown and described previously with reference to <FIG>. In some aspects, the feet <NUM> may be loosely coupled to the legs <NUM>, while in other aspects the feet <NUM> may be distal portions of the legs <NUM>. The apertures of the feet <NUM> are each configured to accommodate a guide pin <NUM>, with each of the guide pins <NUM> moveable within the apertures <NUM>. The apertures <NUM> are sized such that the guide pins <NUM> may move vertically in a direction parallel to the vertical axis <NUM>. According to the invention, the guide pins <NUM> are configured within the apertures <NUM> at an angle such that the extended position of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> includes the guide pins <NUM> disposed such that the guide pins <NUM> do not have a substantially parallel orientation relative to the vertical axis <NUM>. Additionally, the apertures <NUM> are sized such that the guide pins <NUM> may be manipulated laterally (e.g., away from parallel with the vertical axis <NUM>) while remaining within the apertures <NUM>. For example, the guide pins <NUM> may be sized such that, in an extended state (e.g., a deployed position), the guide pins <NUM> may be directed to an orientation that is not parallel with the vertical axis <NUM>.

Similar to the concealed sprinkler assembly of <FIG>, the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> has both an inactivated (not shown) and deployed position. The inactivated position may be the same as and/or similar to that of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> as shown in <FIG>, with the guide pins <NUM> arranged within the housing <NUM> and a sealing assembly not permitting the flow of fluid from a fluid supply line. The concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> may be deployed upon activation (e.g., displacement of a cover of the recess) in a manner the same as or similar to that of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM>. For example, following deployment of a deflector <NUM> below the recess, a sealing assembly or other mechanism may, upon detection of fire or circumstances indicative of fire (or any other activating events) permit flow of a fluid from a fluid supply line to contact the deflector <NUM> of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM>. However, in some aspects, the deployment of the deflector <NUM> and the guide pins <NUM> below the recess may be driven by a flow of fluid permitted following the decoupling of a sealing assembly. The deflector <NUM> may be similar to the deflector <NUM> as shown and described with reference to <FIG>, or may have alternate geometries. The deflector <NUM> is coupled to each of the guide pins <NUM>. In some aspects, the deflector <NUM> may be coupled to a distal end of the guide pins <NUM> adjacent a head <NUM>, as shown in the deployed position in <FIG>. In some aspects, however, the deflector <NUM> may be coupled to the guide pins <NUM> such that the deflector <NUM> may be translated along the guide pins, with the range of motion of the deflector <NUM> defined by the head <NUM> and the feet <NUM> of the housing <NUM>.

In activating the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM>, a cover of the recess housing the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> is displaced and the deflector <NUM> and the guide pins <NUM> deploy to extend from the recess below the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM>. Upon decoupling of a sealing assembly (e.g., solder or a heat link melting as a result of heat from a fire), a fluid is permitted to flow and subsequently contact the deflector <NUM> while the deflector <NUM> is in the deployed position (e.g., extending below the housing <NUM>) and is dispersed and deflected. The dispersal pattern of the fluid from the deflector <NUM> is influenced by the geometry of the deflector <NUM>, which includes a back wall <NUM> as well as a top surface <NUM>. In some aspects, the deflector <NUM> may include additional components or modifications to the geometry of the top surface <NUM> and/or back wall <NUM>. For example, the deflector <NUM> may include one or more downward angled portions and/or bends configured to direct the flow of fluid in a desired direction. Accordingly, the guide pins <NUM> move within the apertures <NUM> to facilitate the movement of the deflector <NUM>. The deployed position is reached when a proximal portion of the guide pins <NUM> (not shown) contacts the feet <NUM>, with said proximal portion of the guide pins <NUM> having a circumference greater than that of the apertures <NUM>. The proximal portion of the guide pins <NUM> contacts the feet <NUM> and defines the range of motion of the guide pins <NUM> and the deflector <NUM> in the deployed position.

Once the deflector <NUM> reaches the deployed position as shown in <FIG>, the deflector may be manipulated such that the guide pins <NUM> are no longer parallel with the vertical axis <NUM>. Such manipulation of the deflector <NUM> and the guide pins <NUM> may be driven by fluid flow. In some aspects, the guide pins <NUM> and/or the deflector <NUM> may be structured so as to facilitate the guide pins <NUM> assuming a position no longer parallel with the vertical axis <NUM>, for example a geometry of the guide pins <NUM> and/or a structure or weighted portion of the deflector <NUM>. Accordingly, in such a position the top surface <NUM> of the deflector <NUM> may be manipulated such that the top surface <NUM> constitutes a plane that is no longer substantially parallel with a horizontal axis <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. As fluid contacts the deflector <NUM> in the deployed position of <FIG>, the guide pins <NUM> and deflector <NUM> may be manipulated such that the guide pins form a first angle <NUM> with the vertical axis <NUM>, the first angle <NUM> indicating the deviation of the guide pins <NUM> from the vertical axis <NUM>. Similarly, the manipulation of the deflector <NUM> may include the formation of a second angle <NUM> with the horizontal axis <NUM>, the second angle <NUM> defined by the horizontal axis <NUM> and the plane defined by the top surface <NUM> of the deflector <NUM>. The second angle <NUM> may, in some aspects, measure within a range (e.g., between <NUM>° and <NUM>°, or in some aspects may measure within a greater range). In some aspects, such as those in which the deflector <NUM> is rigidly coupled to the guide pins <NUM>, the first angle <NUM> may be substantially equal in measure to the second angle <NUM>. For example, if the second angle <NUM> measures <NUM>°, the first angle <NUM> may measure approximately <NUM>°. However, in some aspects in which the deflector <NUM> is not rigidly coupled to the guide pins <NUM>, the first angle <NUM> and the second angle <NUM> may not be equal in measure. For example, if the second angle <NUM> measures <NUM>°, the first angle <NUM> may have an approximate measure of <NUM>° or <NUM>°.

As shown in <FIG>, the deployed position of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> includes the deflector <NUM> and the guide pins <NUM> extending from the housing <NUM> such that the angles <NUM> and <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) are formed. Fluid contacting the top surface <NUM> of the deflector <NUM> may dispersed in a pattern other than that from which fluid would be dispersed if the guide pins <NUM> and deflector <NUM> were arranged such that the first angle <NUM> and the second angle <NUM> were not formed. For example, the pattern in which fluid may be dispersed from the deflector <NUM> when the top surface <NUM> forms a plane that is substantially parallel with the horizontal axis and the guide pins <NUM> are substantially parallel with the vertical axis <NUM> may not provide sufficient coverage for specific areas (e.g., a window or portion of a wall). However, the pattern in which the fluid may be dispersed from the deflector when the second angle <NUM> is formed by the top surface <NUM> and the horizontal axis <NUM> and the first angle <NUM> is formed by the guide pins <NUM> and the vertical axis <NUM> may provide sufficient coverage for specific areas (e.g. a window or portion of a wall). For example, a downward dispersion angle (e.g. second angle <NUM>) and resulting spray pattern for the fluid may be beneficial if the ceiling of an area is not flush with the top of the glass of a window. In another example, if the ceiling of an area is flush with the top of the glass of a window than a horizontal dispersion angle (e.g., second angle <NUM>) and resulting spray pattern for the fluid may be beneficial.

Referring now to <FIG>, a concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> is shown. The concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> may be installed and positioned within a recess of a wall or ceiling similarly to the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> and the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM>. The concealed sprinkler assembly may include one or more components the same as and/or similar to those of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> and the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> as shown and described with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, respectively. The concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> is shown to include a body <NUM>, a housing <NUM>, a sealing assembly <NUM>, a deflector <NUM> and a pair of guide pins <NUM>, one or more of which may be the same as and/or similar to the corresponding components of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> and the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM>. Similar to the concealed sprinkler assemblies shown and described previously, the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> can be arranged in both inactivated and activated positions corresponding to both retracted and deployed positions of the deflector <NUM>, respectively. For example, in the inactivated position the deflector <NUM> is retracted and the guide pins <NUM> may be arranged substantially within the housing <NUM> and, upon activation (and following the displacement of the cover of the recess housing the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM>) the deflector <NUM> and the guide pins <NUM> may deploy to extend below the housing <NUM> such that a fluid (supplied from a fluid supply line) may contact the deflector <NUM> and be dispersed over a desired window and/or wall. However, in some aspects, the deployment of the deflector <NUM> and the guide pins <NUM> below the recess may be driven by a flow of fluid permitted following the decoupling of the sealing assembly <NUM>. The concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> may also perform similar functions as the aforementioned concealed sprinkler assemblies in that the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> may be configured to provide fire exposure protection to a window and/or wall. Manufacturing, assembling, and installing the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> may include processes, methods, and/or tools that are implemented in accordance with the geometry of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> and components thereof. For example, although not shown, the body <NUM> may include a hexagonal portion similar to that of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> and the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> that is configured to interface with various equipment and/or tools.

The concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> is shown to include an enclosure <NUM>. The enclosure <NUM> is shown to include a threaded portion on an exterior surface thereof, and in some aspects may be implemented in the installation of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> within a recess. Additionally, the enclosure <NUM> is shown to enclose at least a portion of the body <NUM> and the housing <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. The housing <NUM> is shown to receive at least a portion of the body <NUM> (which may include at least a portion of the sealing assembly <NUM>) similar to the configuration and arrangement of the housing and body components of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> and the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM>. In some aspects, portions of the enclosure <NUM> may have a geometry configured to interface with the geometries of the body <NUM> and the housing <NUM>. For example, as shown in the example of <FIG>, the enclosure <NUM> is shown to include an opening having a substantially cylindrical geometry which is configured to receive a portion of the body <NUM>. In some aspects, the portion of the body <NUM> protruding from the enclosure <NUM> may be configured to couple to a fluid supply line such that, under some conditions, a fluid may be permitted to flow through the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> such that the fluid contacts the deflector <NUM> and is subsequently dispersed over a desired window and/or wall.

The housing <NUM> may include one or more components the same as and/or similar to the housing of the concealed sprinkler assemblies as shown and described previously. For example, the housing <NUM> may include legs, feet, and apertures disposed within the feet to accommodate the guide pins <NUM>. Additionally, the guide pins <NUM> may include a proximal portion having a geometry with a circumference greater than that of the apertures, as well as a head disposed on a distal end of the guide pins <NUM> similarly having a geometry with a circumference greater than that of any apertures disposed within the deflector <NUM>. The guide pins <NUM> are shown to be coupled to the deflector <NUM>, and may be loosely (e.g., the deflector may be moved along the guide pins <NUM>) or rigidly (fixed at a distal portion of the guide pins <NUM>) coupled thereto. The deflector <NUM> is shown to include a pair of arms <NUM> extending from a back wall <NUM>. The arms <NUM> may be configured to provide a dispersal pattern such that fluid contacts the deflector <NUM> and is dispersed over a desired window and/or wall. In some aspects, the deflector <NUM>, the back wall <NUM>, and the arms <NUM> may have alternate geometries configured to disperse fluid over various windows and/or walls after said fluid contacts the deflector. The deflector <NUM> may also be configured as shown and described with respect to the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> and the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM>, according to some aspects.

In some aspects, concealed sprinklers configured to provide fire exposure protection for a window and/or wall such as the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> require a baffle if spaced within six feet of other sprinklers (e.g., concealed sprinklers). Concealed sprinklers such as those shown and described previously may direct the flow of a fluid near other concealed sprinklers if implemented without a baffle, and may accordingly prevent other concealed sprinklers in near proximity from activating. Accordingly, it is critical that fluid directed by concealed sprinklers only reach the desired window and/or wall so as to ensure concealed sprinklers in near proximity activate under proper circumstances and any such circumstances are not incorrectly influenced by other concealed sprinklers. Such baffles typically extend from the window and/or wall to a rear portion of the deflector (e.g., the back wall <NUM> of the deflector <NUM>). Additionally, such baffles also extend from an upper portion of the window and/or wall for which fire exposure protection is provided to a lower portion thereof, and commonly obstruct view of said window and/or wall. The concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> is shown to include a baffle <NUM>. The baffle <NUM> is configured to eliminate the need for such baffles required for concealed sprinklers as described previously without obstructing any view of the window and/or wall for which fire exposure protection is provided.

The baffle <NUM> may comprise plastic, metal or other rigid materials, according to some aspects. The baffle <NUM> is shown to have a substantially cylindrical geometry, and is further shown to receive at least a portion of the housing <NUM> (e.g., the legs of the housing <NUM>), as well as the guide pins <NUM> and the deflector <NUM>. Additionally, with regard to the obstruction of views common to traditional baffles of concealed sprinklers such as the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM>, the baffle <NUM> does not contact the window and/or wall for which fire exposure protection is provided, nor does the baffle <NUM> obstruct views of the window and/or wall. The baffle <NUM> is shown to be coupled to other components of the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM>, which may include the body <NUM>, the housing <NUM>, and the enclosure <NUM>. Additionally, the baffle <NUM> is configured to at least partially surround the deflector <NUM> and the guide pins <NUM> when the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> is in the deployed position, as shown in <FIG>. For example, in some aspects the baffle <NUM> may surround the deflector <NUM> and the guide pins <NUM> by approximately <NUM>°. However, in other aspects the baffle <NUM> may surround the deflector <NUM> and the guide pins <NUM> to a greater or lesser degree, for example <NUM>° or <NUM>°. Different concealed sprinkler assemblies such as the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> may require baffles surrounding the deflector <NUM> to different degrees, with the portion of the deflector <NUM> surrounded by the baffle <NUM> corresponding to the desired coverage area and direction of the fluid dispersal. The portion of the baffle <NUM> surrounding the deflector <NUM> is configured to prevent spray distribution into undesired areas (e.g., other concealed sprinklers). The portion of the baffle <NUM> not surrounding the deflector <NUM> is configured to permit spray distribution to a desired window and/or wall, such as the window and/or wall for which fire exposure protection is provided. Additionally, in some aspects the baffle <NUM> may include one or more vents configured to permit airflow but restrict fluid flow, or vice-versa. Additionally, in some aspects the baffle <NUM> may be configured to extend from the ceiling of an area to the bottom of the deflector <NUM> when in the deployed position, thus preventing fluid from being dispersed in a direction parallel to a desired window and contacting adjacent sprinklers (which could cause solder failures).

The baffle <NUM> is configured to prevent fluid supplied by a fluid supply line and contacting the deflector <NUM> in the extended position form spraying out parallel to the window and/or wall for which fire exposure protection is provided. Additionally, the baffle <NUM> is configured to prevent said fluid from spraying onto adjacent sprinklers (some or all of which may be concealed sprinklers), as errant fluid spray may cause solder failures and may ultimately prevent components from adjacent sprinklers from functioning properly. For example, if an adjacent sprinkler were the same as or similar to that of the concealed sprinkler assemblies shown and described previously, the sealing assembly (e.g., sealing assembly <NUM>) may include solder configured to melt when said solder reaches a specific temperature. The melting of the solder may permit flow of a fluid from a fluid supply line to a deflector (e.g., deflector <NUM>) with the fluid then dispersed to provide fire exposure protection for a desired window and/or wall. However, errant fluid spray from the concealed sprinkler assembly <NUM> (e.g., water impingement) may prevent the solder of the adjacent sprinkler from reaching a melting point, and thus prevent the adjacent sprinkler from activating and providing necessary fire exposure protection by dispersing fluid over the desired window and/or wall.

As utilized herein, the terms "approximately," "about," "substantially", and similar terms are intended to include any given ranges or numbers +/-<NUM>%. These terms include insubstantial or inconsequential modifications or alterations of the subject matter described and claimed are considered to be within the scope of the disclosure as recited in the appended claims.

The term "coupled" and variations thereof, as used herein, means the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary (e.g., permanent or fixed) or moveable (e.g., removable or releasable). Such joining may be achieved with the two members coupled directly to each other, with the two members coupled to each other using a separate intervening member and any additional intermediate members coupled with one another, or with the two members coupled to each other using an intervening member that is integrally formed as a single unitary body with one of the two members. If "coupled" or variations thereof are modified by an additional term (e.g., directly coupled), the generic definition of "coupled" provided above is modified by the plain language meaning of the additional term (e.g., "directly coupled" means the joining of two members without any separate intervening member), resulting in a narrower definition than the generic definition of "coupled" provided above. Such coupling may be mechanical, electrical, or fluidic.

The term "or," as used herein, is used in its inclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so that when used to connect a list of elements, the term "or" means one, some, or all of the elements in the list. Conjunctive language such as the phrase "at least one of X, Y, and Z," unless specifically stated otherwise, is understood to convey that an element may be either X, Y, Z; X and Y; X and Z; Y and Z; or X, Y, and Z (i.e., any combination of X, Y, and Z). Thus, such conjunctive language is not generally intended to imply that certain embodiments require at least one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z to each be present, unless otherwise indicated.

Claim 1:
A sprinkler, comprising:
- a body (<NUM>) having an opening (<NUM>) that extends through the body along an axis (<NUM>), the body coupled with a fluid supply line to receive fluid from the fluid supply line;
- a sealing assembly (<NUM>) to unseal in response to a fire;
- a housing (<NUM>) comprising a pair of legs (<NUM>) arranged opposite each other, each leg of the pair of legs comprising an aperture (<NUM>); and
- a deflection assembly comprising a pair of guide pins (<NUM>) rigidly coupled with a deflector, each guide pin of the pair of guide pins slidably coupled with the housing and disposed within a respective aperture of a respective leg of the pair of legs, the deflection assembly to extend from the housing responsive to receiving the flow of fluid from the fluid supply line such that the pair of guide pins are arranged at an oblique angle relative to the axis.