MX2008005199A - Celling-only dry sprinkler systems and methods for addressing a storage occupancy fire - Google Patents

Abstract

A ceiling-only dry sprinkler system configured to address a storage occupancy fire event with a sprinkler operational area sufficient in size to surround and drown fire. The system and method preferably provide for the surround and effect by activating one or more initial sprinklers, delaying fluid flow to the initial activated sprinklers for a defined delay period to permit the thermal activation of a subsequent-one or more sprinklers so as. to form|the preferred sprinkler Operational area. The sprinklers of the operational area are preferably:configured so as to provider sufficient fluid volume and cooling to addressthe fire event with a surround and drown configuration, the defined delay period is of a defined period having a maximum and a minimum. The preferred sprinkler system is adapted for fire protection of storage commodities and provides a ceiling only system that eliminates or otherwise minimizes the economic disadvantage and design penalties current dry sprinkler system design.

Description

DRY SPRINKLER SYSTEM ONLY FOR CEILING AND METHOD TO ATTACK THE FIRE IN AN OCCUPIED WAREHOUSE Priority Data and Reference Incorporation

[0001] This application claims the benefit of the priorities indicated below: (i) US provisional patent application number: 60 / 728,734, filed on October 21, 2005; (ii) U.S. Provisional Patent Application 60 / 818,312, filed July 5, 2006 and (iii) and the US provisional patent application: 60 / 744,644, filed on February 21, 2006, each of which is incorporate by reference in its entirety. In addition, incorporating the full attachment as a reference are the following: (i) PCT international patent application filed on October 3, 2006 entitled, System and Method for the Evaluation of Fluid Flow in a Piping System, "having the registration S-FB-00091 WO (73434-029 WO) Reclaiming Priority (i) Provisional Patent Application 60 / 722,401 filed October 3, 2005; (iii) U.S. Patent Applications No. 10 / 942,817 filed on September 17, 2004, published as an application with the No. of the publication 2005/0216242, entitled "System and method for the evaluation of the flow of a fluid in a casing system"; (iv) Tyco Fire &Building Prods., "SPRINKFDT (TM) SPR1 NKCALC (T): SprinkCAD Study User Manual" (Sept. 2006); (v) Underwri-ters Laboratories, Inc. (below "UL"), " The evaluation of the behavior in fire of sprinkler systems in dry pipe for protection of plastic articles of class II, III and group A using sprinklers K-16.8; Technical Reports of the Underwriters Laboratories Inc. Project 06NK05814, EX4991 by Tyco Fire and Buildings producís 06-02-2006, (2006); (vi) Tyco Fire & Building Prods., Technical data sheet: TFP370, "Quell ™ Systems: Preaction and Dry Alternatives to Eliminate On-Rack Sprinklers" (Aug.2006, Rev. A); (vii) The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), NFPA-13 standard for the installation of sprinkler systems (2002 ed.) (hereinafter "NFPA-13"); and (v i i) NFPA, - standard NFPA-13 for the installation of sprinkler systems (2007 ed.). It should be understood that someone with average knowledge in the field can correlate the material included in the citations of NFPA-13 in the corresponding tables in the 2007 edition of the NFPA-13 standard for the installation of sprinkler systems.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This invention relates generally to dry sprinklers of fire protection systems and the method of their design installation. More specifically, the present invention provides a dry sprinkler system, convenient for the protection of storage occupations, which uses a surround and choke effect to direct towards an eventuality of fire. In more detail, the present invention is directed to the method of designing and installing such systems.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Dry sprinkler systems are well known in the state of the art. A dry sprinkler system includes a sprinkler rack having a plurality of sprinkler heads. The sprinkler grid is connected, you travel fluid lines of fluid that contain air or other gas. The fluid flow lines are coupled to a primary valve of the water source which may include, for example, an air / water valve, a deluge valve or a pre-action valve as they are known in the state of The technique. Sprinkler heads typically include temperature sensitive valves, normally closed. The normally closed valves of the sprinkler heads open when heated sufficiently or driven by a thermal source such as a fire. The open head of a sprayer, alone or in combination with a smoke or fire indicator, causes the primary water supply valve to open, allowing for this situation that the water flow to the fluid flow lines of the dry grid of the pipe sprinkler (which displaces the air in this), and through the open sprayer head to control fire, reduce smoke source, and / or minimize any damage that may be caused. Water flows through the system and out of the sprinkler head (and any other sprinkler heads that open subsequently), until the shower head closes to itself, if it automatically resets, or until the Water supply is cut.

[0004] In contrast, a wet pipe sprinkler system has fluid flow lines that are pre-filled with water. The ag.ua is retained in the sprinkler grid (by the valves in the sprinkler head.) As soon as a sprinkler head opens, the water in the sprinkler rack immediately flows out of the sprinkler head. The primary water valve in the wet sprinkler system is the main shut-off valve, which is in the normally open state.

[0005] There are three types of dry sprinkler system that contain air or gas compared to water or another fluid. These dry systems include: dry tube systems, pre-action, dilution systems. A dry pipe system includes the fluid flow tubes that are charged with pressurized air and when the dry pipe system detects heat from a fire, the sprinkler heads open resulting in a decrease in air pressure. The resulting decrease in air pressure activates the water supply and allows the water between the system 5 to be tubes and exit through the heads of the sprinklers.

[0006] In a deluge system, the fluid flow in the pipe remains free of water, using sprinkler heads that remain open, and utilizes pneumatic or electric detectors to detect a fire indication of the tire, such as, for example, the heat or smoke. The network of tubes in a deluge system does not generally contain air monitoring, but air at atmospheric pressure. Once the pneumatic or electrical detector detects •. fire, the supply source of: water supplies this liquid to the tu-5 pipe and sprinkler heads. A pre-action system has water-free piping, employs sprinkler heads that remain closed, have supervisory air, and use pneumatic or electrical detectors to detect a fire indicator such as heat or smoke. Only when the system detects a fire, water is introduced into the otherwise dry network of pipes and sprinkler heads.

[0007] When a dry pipe sprinkler system gets wet (for example to make the main water supply valve open and allow filling the water flow supply line) a sprinkler head is opened, the differential pressure between the air pressure in the fluid flow line and the water supply pressure on the wet side of the main water supply valve or air to water ratio valve of the dry pipes reaches a pneumatic hydraulic unbalance to open the valve and release the water supply in the pipes of the network. This can take up to 120 seconds to reach this state, depending on the volume of the sprinkler system, water supply and air pressure. The most important water supply, the most important air supply is necessary to manage the water-to-air ratio. On the other hand, if the system is large and / or if the system is loaded at a typical pressure such as 40 psig, a considerable volume of air must escape or be ejected from the open showerhead before the hydraulic imbalance -If specific water is reached to open the main water valve. The water source is moved through the pipe grid by displacing the pressurized gas to finally discharge through the open sprinkler.

[0008] The travel time of both the escaping gas and the fluid source through the network provides a delay in the supply of the fluid in dry sprinkler systems that is not present in wet sprinkler systems. Currently, there is an industrial belief that a dry sprinkler system is better to minimize or, if possible, avoid fluid supply delay. This belief has led to an industrial level, to have the opinion that the systems of these dry sprinklers are inferior to wet systems. Current industry accepts design standards that attempt to reduce or minimize the impact of the fluid supply delay by placing a limit on the amount of delay that may be in the system. For example; NFPA-13, in sections 7 and 11 states that the water that must be supplied from the control of the primary valve of the water to discharge outside the spray head to the operating pressure below those of sixty seconds and more specifically below forty seconds. To facilitate the rapid supply of water to the dry sprinkler system, section 7 of the NFPA-13 in more detail states that, for dry sprinkler systems that have system volumes between 500 and 7.50 gallons, the The discharge time limit can be avoided if the system includes rapid opening devices such as accelerators.

[0009] The NFPA standards provide several other design criteria for both wet and dry sprinkler systems used in storage spaces. Included in NFPA-13 is the density of the curve area and density-area points that define the indispensable flow rate of the surplus discharge from the system to the given design area. The curve of the area or point density may be specified or limited in the design of the system for the protection of a given type of type or type of article as provided in NFPA-13 - Sections.5.6.3 and 5.6, 4. For example, NFPA-13 provides the criteria for the following classes of articles: Class I; Class II; Class III and class IV. In addition, NFPA-13 provides the criteria for the following groups to define the groups of plastics, rubber elastomers as group A; of group B; and group C.

[0010] NFPA-13 provides for additional provisions in dry protection designs for stored items. For example, NFPA requires that the design area for the dry sprinkler system be increased in size with respect to. to. wet systems for the protection of the same area or space. Specifically, NFPA-13 - section 12.1.6.1 states that the area, - of the operation of the sprinklers, the design area, for a dry system, it increased by 30 percent (without reviewing the density) compared to to an equivalent wet system. This increase in operational area of the sprinkler establishes a penalty to design a dry system; again reflecting a belief in the industry that dry sprinkler systems are inferior to their respective wet,

[0011] For the protection of some storage items, NFPA-13 provides the design criteria for ceiling-only sprinkler systems in which the design penalty is greater than thirty percent. For example, certain forms of shelf storage require a dry ceiling sprinkler system to be supplemented or supported by the rack sprinkler; as are known in the art. A problem with rack sprinklers is that they can be difficult to maintain and are subject to damage from forklifts or warehouse pallet movements. NFPA-13 provides in NFPA-13 - section 12.3.3 1.5 (e); Note 4, standards for the protection of Group A plastics using a dry system of single roof sprinklers, appropriately listed as K-16.8 sprinklers for ceilings not exceeding 30 feet in height. The design criteria for the sprinkler system, ceiling only, wet, storage is 0.8 gpm / ft3 per 2000 ft2. However, NFPA adds an additional penalty for dry roof-only systems of the system by increasing design criteria; 0.8 gpm / ft2 for 4500 ft2. This increase in the area is a 125% penalty on density over the system design criteria. As noted, the design penalties of NFPA-13 were believed to be proportionate to compensate for the delay inherent in the supply of fluid in a dry sprinkler system following the thermal activation of the sprinkler. On the other hand. NFPA 13 provides roof-only protection in limited shelf storage configurations, in addition to requiring on-shelf showers.

[0012] Fulfilling the design area increase by thirty percent and other penalties, fire protection system engineers and designers are forced to anticipate the activation of more sprinklers and thus perhaps provide a larger pipeline to transport more water, larger pumps to properly pressurize the system, and larger tanks to provide water demand not met by the municipal source. Despite the apparent economic advantage of the design of wet systems over dry systems, certain storage configurations, it prevents the use of wet systems or makes them otherwise impractical. Dry sprinkler systems are typically used for the purpose of providing automatic sprinkler protection, in unheated spaces; and structures that can be exposed to. freezing temperatures. For example in warehouses that use high storage shelves, ie .25 feet, high storage below 30 feet from the roof, such warehouses may be without heating and therefore susceptible to freezing conditions making the systems undesirable wet. The storage in freezing conditions presents another environment that does not use the wet system because the water in the pipe of the fire protection system located in the freezing system can freeze. A solution to the problem that has been developed is to use the sprinklers in the combination with antifreeze. . However, the use of antifreeze means other situations such as, for example, corrosion and leakage of the pipe system. In addition, the high viscosity of the antifreeze may require increases in the size of the pipe. On the other hand, propylene glycol (PG) as antifreeze has been shown not to have water extinguishing characteristics and has sometimes been known to momentarily accelerate fire growth.

[0013] Generally, dry sprinkler systems for warehouses are configured for fire control in which a fire is limited in size by the distribution of water from one or more thermally activated sprinklers, located over the fire for the reduction of fire. the rate of heat release and pre-moisten the fuels while controlling the temperature of the gas in the roof to avoid damage to the structure. However, with this fire control mode the hot gases can be dragged or maintained in the roof area above the fire and allowed to migrate radially. This can result in additional sprinklers that are activated remotely from the fire and thus not directly impact the fire. In addition, the discharge of fluid from a given sprinkler can result in the collision of water droplets and / or the formation of water vapor condensation in adjacent and non-activated sprinklers. The resulting effect of non-activated sprinklers inter-fed between activated sprinklers is known as sprinkler hopping. A definition of sprinkler jumps is "it is the sequence of operation of the Irrigation sprinklers significantly when compared to the expected sequence dictated by the flow behavior of the roof, assuming that there is no bad function of the sprinkler system." See PAUL A.CROCE ET AL, An investigation of the causative mechanisms of the sprinkler jump, 15 J, FIRE PROT. ENGR, 107, 107 (May 2005). Due to the activation of additional remote sprinklers, the actual design criteria may require elongated pipe, and thus, the volume of water discharged into the storage area may be longer than is adequately necessary to control the fire. Even more, because of fire control only reduces the heat ratio a large number of sprinklers can be activated in response to fire in order to maintain the reduction of heat ratio released.

[0014] Despite the characteristic of immediate fluid discharge from each sprinkler in a wet sprinkler system, the wet sprinkler system may also undergo a sprinkler jump. However, wet sprinkler systems can be configured for their fire pressure which drastically reduces the heat delivery ratio of a fire and prevents its re-growth by direct and sufficient application of water through the boom. fire to be burned to the surface of the fuel to burn. For example, a wet system can be configured to use early response suppressor sprinklers (ESFR) early. The use of sprinklers (ESFR) is generally, in dry sprinkler systems, doing so requires a specific list of sprinklers as required under section 8.4.6.1 of NFPA-13. Thus, in order to configure a dry sprinkler system for fire suppression, the additional penalty of a specific listing for an ESFR sprinkler may be required. In addition to hydraulically configure a dry system by its pressure it may require adequate sizing of pipes and pumps whose costs could prove to be economically prohibitive as those design limitations may require hydraulic sizing or may require hydraulic sizing of the system beyond the actual demands. imposed by design penalties.

[0015] Two fire tests were conducted to determine the capacity of a tree-type or double-interconnected dry pipe of the pre-action system that employed large sprinklers of large roof drop only to provide adequate protection of the shelving for the Article shelf storage of Class II class at a storage height of thirty-four feet (34 feet) below the ceiling, having a ceiling height of forty feet. A fire test showed that the system, employing thirty seconds (30 sec.) Or less water delay time, can provide adequate fire control at a water pressure of 55 PSI discharge. Nevertheless, in addition to the high operating pressure of 55 PSI, such system required a total of twenty five (out of 25) sprinkler operations operating a seventeen minute period. The second fire test employed a water delay time of sixty-second (60 sec), however such a delay time could prove to be too long so that the fire developed to such severity can not be adequately controlled. In the second fire test, seventy-one (71) operated sprinklers, at a maximum discharge pressure of 37 psig and so, the target pressure of 75 PSI may not be reached. The tests and their results are described in the technical report of the factory's mutual investigation: FMRC Jl OZOR6.RR NS entitled, "Dry Spray Protection of Warehouse Pipe in Class II Item Shelf at 40 ft, Tall Buildings ", prepared for Americold Corp. and published, in June 1995 ...,,,

[0016] In an attempt to understand and predict fire behavior, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has developed a software entitled "Fire Dynamics Simulator (FDS)" currently available within the Internet site: < URL: http // fire. nist.gov/fds/, which models the solution of fire triggered flows, ie, growth, including but not limited to flow velocity, temperature, smoke density, and heat release.

[0017] The FDS can be used to model the operation or activation of sprinklers of a dry sprinkler system in the presence of a fire that is growing in a stored article. A particular study can be conducted using FDS to predetermine fire growth size and sprinkler activation pattern for two standard items and a range of storage height, ceiling height and location of sprinkler installation. The results and conclusions of the study are discussed in a report by David LeBlanc of research and development of fire products TYCO, dry tube sprinkler systems-effect of geometrical parameters in the hope of the operation number of sprinklers 2002 (from here FDS STUDY) which is incorporated here entirely by reference.

[0018] The predictive model evaluated from the SDS study for dry sprinkler systems for the protection of storage groupings of Group A items of Class II. The study of the FDS generated a model that simulates the growth of fire and the activation response of sprinklers. The study also verifies the validity of the prediction by comparing the simulated results with the experimental tests reajes. As described in the SDS study, the SDS prediction can generate predictive heat release profiles for a given stored item, storage configurations and article height show in particular the change in heat release with respect to the time and other parameters such as temperature and speed within the computational domain for an area such as, for example, an area near the ceiling. In addition, the FDS simulation can provide sprinkler activation profiles for the simulated sprinkler networks, modeled on the articles showing in particular the predictive location and the activation time of the sprinklers.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

[0019] An innovative sprinkler system is provided to direct the fire in a manner in which it is henceforth unknown. More specifically, the preferred sprinkler system is-. a non-wet system, preferably of dry tubes and more preferably a pre-action dry sprinkler system configured to direct a fire event with an operational area of sprinklers sufficient in size to dominate and smother the fire. The preferred operational area is preferably generated by the activation of one or more initial sprinklers, by delaying the flow of fluid to the initial sprinkler activated for a period of time delay to allow thermal activation of a subsequent one or more sprinklers in a manner to forming the operational area of preferred sprinklers. The sprayers of the operational area are preferably configured so as to provide sufficient volume of fluid and cool to direct the fire event in a controlled and controlled manner. More preferably, the sprinklers are configured to have a factor K of about eleven (11) or greater and even more preferably a factor K of seventeen (17). The defined delay period is of a defined period having a maximum and a minimum. By enveloping and flooding the fire event, the fire is effectively over-governed and dominated so that the heat released by the fire event is quickly reduced. The sprinkler system is preferably adapted for fire protection of stored items, and provides a roof-only system that eliminates or otherwise minimizes the economic disadvantages and design penalties of current dry sprinkler system designs. The preferred sprinkler systems do so by minimizing the total hydraulic demand of the system.

[0020] More specifically, the hydraulic design area for the preferred single ceiling sprinkler system can be configured smaller than the hydraulic design area for dry sprinkler system as specified in NFPA-13, thus eliminating at least one penalty of hydraulic design. More preferably, the sprinkler system can be designed and configured with a hydraulic design area at least equal to the operational design areas of the sprinklers for wet piping systems currently specified under NFPA-13. The hydraulic design area preferably defines an area for system operation through which the sprinkler system preferably provides a desired or predetermined flow characteristic.

[0021] For example, the design area can define the area through which a dry tube sprinkler system provides a discharge density of water or fluid. Consequently, the preferred design areas define criteria for dry tube sprinkler system around which a design methodology is provided. Since the design area can provide a system design parameter at least equivalent to that of a wet system, the design area can avoid the over-design of the system components that are believed to occur in the design and construction of systems. dry tube sprinklers actual.es. A preferred sprinkler system that uses a reduced hydraulic design area can incorporate smaller tubes or pumping components of comparable size to current dry sprinkler systems protecting a similarly configured storage site, thus potentially making economical savings. . On the other hand, the preferred design methodology, incorporating a preferred hydraulic design area and a system constructed according to the preferred methodology, can demonstrate that fire protection systems of dry pipes can be designed and installed without incorporating penalties. design, previously perceived a need, under NFPA-13. Accordingly, the applicant argues that the need for penalties in the design of dry pipe systems has been eliminated or otherwise minimized to the maximum.

[0022] To minimize the hydraulic demand of the sprinkler systems, an operational area of minimized sprinklers effective to overprotect and subjugate is used to respond to an increase in fire in the storage area. To minimize the number of sprinkler activations in response to increased fire, the sprinkler system employs a delay period in the fluid supply which delays the discharge of fluid or water from one or more thermally activated sprinklers at the start to allow the growth of fire and thermally activate the minimum number of sprinklers to form. The effective area of operational sprinklers to dominate and drown the fire with a fluid discharge that protects and subjugates. Because of the number of activated sprinklers it is preferable to minimize in response to fire, the volume of water discharge that can also be minimized in order to avoid unnecessary water discharges in the storage area. The operational area of preferred sprinklers may also be overprotect and subjugate an increase in fire by minimizing the number of non-operated sprinklers and thus concentrate the activated sprinklers in an area immediately adjacent to the focus of the fire boom. More preferably, the amount of sprinklers sprung in the sprinkler system can be comparatively less than the amount of sprinklers sprung in the wet system.

[0023] A preferred embodiment of a ceiling-only dry sprinkler system for the protection of a storage space and articles, includes a pipe network with a wet portion and a dry portion connected to the wet portion. The dry portion is preferably configured to respond to a fire with at least one first sprayer activated to initiate the fluid supply from the wet portion to at least one thermally activated sprayer. The system further includes a delay period of a mandatory fluid delivery configured to retard discharge from at least one first activated sprinkler such that the fire grows to thermally activate at least. a second sprinkler in the dry portion. The discharge of the fluid from the first and at least one second sprinkler defines an operational area of sprinkler sufficient to reduce and flood a fire event. In another preferred modality, the first activated sprayer preferably includes more than a sprayer initially activated to initiate the discharge of the fluid.

[0024] In another preferred embodiment of the dry sprinkler system only of roofs, the system includes a main water control valve and the dry portion includes at least one hydraulically remote sprinkler and at least one hydraulically close sprinkler in relation to the primary valve of control. The system is also preferably such that the delivery of fluid to the hydraulically remote sprinkler defines the maximum delay period in the delivery of the fluid by the system and the delivery of the fluid to the hydraulically close sprinkler defines the minimum delivery delay period. of the fluid through the system. The maximum period of delivery delay of the fluid is preferably configured so as to allow thermal activation of a first plurality of sprinklers so as to form a maximum sprinkler operational area to handle an event with an enveloping and flooding event. The minimum delay period in the delivery of the fluid is preferably configured so as to allow the thermal activation of a second plurality of sprinklers so as to form a maximum operational area of sprinklers sufficient to direct a fire event with an enveloping effect and of waterlogged.

[0025] In one aspect of the dry ceiling sprinkler system is configured such that all sprinklers actuated in response to the increase in fire are activated within a predetermined period of time. More specifically, the sprinkler system is configured so that the last activated sprinkler appears within ten minutes of the first thermal activation of a sprinkler in the system. More preferably, the last activated sprinkler appears within eight minutes and more preferably, the last activated sprinkler appears within five minutes after the first activation of the system.

[0026] Another embodiment of a single ceiling dry sprinkler system provides protection of a storage space having a ceiling height and configured to store an article of a given classification and storage height. The sprinkler system includes a network of tubes with a wet portion confi gured to deliver a supply and a dry portion having a network of sprinklers each having an operating pressure. The pipe network further includes a dry portion connected to the wet portion so as to define at least one hydraulically remote sprinkler. The system also has an area _, of preferred hydraulic design. The system further includes a preferred design hydraulic area defined by a plurality of sprinklers in the dry portion including at least one hydraulically remote sprinkler for support responding to a fire event with an enveloping and flooding effect. The system also includes a mandatory period of fluid delivery delay defined by a time lapse following the activation of a first sprayer of preferred hydraulic design area to the discharge of fluid at operating pressure from substantially all sprinklers in the preferred hydraulic design area. Preferably, the hydraulic design area for a system employing a wraparound and flooded effect is smaller than the hydraulic design area that is normally required by the NFPA-13 for a given article and storage height.

[0027] A preferable method of designing a sprinkler system that employs an enveloping and flooded effect to protect and subjugate a fire is provided. The method includes determining a mandatory period of delay in the delivery of the fluid to the system following the thermal activation of a sprinkler. More preferably, the method includes determining a maximum delay period in the supply of the fluid to the most remote sprayer and also includes determining a minimum delay period in the supply of the fluid to the closest sprayer. The method for determination, of the maximum and minimum period of delivery, fluid delivery includes preferably modeling a fire scenario for a dry ceiling only sprinkler system in a storage space including a network of sprinklers and items stored below the net. The method further includes determining the sprinkler activation of each sprinkler in response to the stage and preferably plotting the activation times to generate a predictive profile of sprinkler activation.

[0028] The method also includes the determination of minimum or maximum areas of minimum and maximum sprinklers for systems capable of directing a fire up to enveloping and flooded effect. The maximum operational area of sprinklers is preferably equivalent to a minimized hydraulic design area for the system that is defined by a number of sprinklers. More preferably, the hydraulic design area is equal to or smaller than the hydraulic design area specified by NFPA-13 for the same item that is being protected. The critical number of sprinklers is preferably two to four depending on the height of the roof and the kind of item or danger to be protected.

[0029] The method also provides identification of the maximum and minimum fluid supply delay periods, from the predictive activation profile of the sprinklers. Preferably, the minimum period of fluid supply delay is defined by the time lapse is defined by the lapse of. time between the activation of the first sprinkler at the time of activation of the last sprinkler in the critical number of sprinklers. The maximum period of delay in the discharge of the fluid is preferably defined by the time lapse between the activation of the first sprinkler and the time at which the number of activated sprinklers is equal to at least 80 percent of the sprinklers in the operational area. maximum defined. The delay period in the maximum and minimum discharge of the fluid defines a range of available fluid release delay periods that can be implemented in the dry sprinkler system, only of roofs designed to carry around enveloping and flooded effect.

[0030] To design the dry roof single sprinkler system, the method further provides for iterative design of a sprinkler system having a wet portion and a dry portion having a sprinkler network, with a hydraulically remote sprinkler, and a sprinkler hydraulically close in relation to the wet portion. The method preferably includes iterative system designs such that the hydraulically remote sprinkler experiences the maximum period of fluid discharge delay and the hydraulically close sprinkler experiences the minimum period of fluid discharge delay. Iteratively, the design of! The system further preferably includes verifying that each sprinkler arranged between the hydraulically close sprinkler and the hydraulically far sprinkler experiences a delay in the discharge of the fluid that is between the maximum and the minimum delay period of the fluid discharge for the system.

[0031] The preferred methodology may provide criteria for designing preferred systems of dry roof-only sprinklers to control a fire event with an enveloping and subjugating effect. More specifically, the methodology can provide for a mandatory period of discharge delay time and hydraulic design area to support the enveloping and flooded effect and which can also be incorporated into a dry sprinkler system design in order to define a criterion of hydraulic operation where such criteria is not currently known. In another preferred embodiment of a method for sprinkler system design, it can provide by applying the delay period in the discharge to a plurality of initially thermally activated sprinklers that are thermally activated in a defined sequence. More preferably, the period of fluid discharge delay is applied to the four hydraulically remote sprinklers in the system.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment, a fire protection system is provided for a storage volume. The system preferably includes a wet portion and a thermally dry portion evaluated in fluid communication with the wet portion. Preferably the dry portion is configured to delay the discharge of fluid from, the wet portion in the storage volume for a defined time delay following the thermal activation of the dry portion. In another embodiment, the system preferably includes a plurality of thermally evaluated sprinklers coupled to a fluid source. The plurality of sprinklers can be located in the storage volume so that each of the plurality of sprinklers is positioned within the system so that the fluid discharging within the storage volume is delayed for a defined period of time following the thermal activation. In yet another embodiment of a preferred system, the system preferably has a maximum delay and a minimum delay for discharging the fluid within the storage volume. The preferred system includes a plurality of thermally evaluated sprinklers coupled to the fluid source, the plurality of sprinklers being positioned so that each of the plurality of sprays discharges fluid in a delayed manner in the storage volume following thermal activation. The delay is preferably in the range between the maximum delay and the minimum delay in the system.

[0033] In another preferred embodiment, a system of dry sprinklers only for ceilings for fire protection of a storage volume includes a sprinkler grid having a group of hydraulically remote sprinklers in relation to a source of fluid. The group of hydraulically remote sprinklers are preferably configured to thermally act in a sequence in response to a fire event, and more preferably to discharge fluid in a sequence following a mandatory fluid delay for each sprinkler. The period of fluid discharge delay is preferably configured to promote the thermal activation of a sufficient number of sprinklers adjacent to the group of hydraulically remote sprinklers to effectively envelop and flood the fire.

[0034] Another embodiment of fire protection system for a storage volume provides a plurality of thermally evaluated sprinklers coupled to a fluid source. The plurality of sprinklers are each preferably positioned to retard the discharge of fluid within the storage volume for a defined period following an initial thermal activation in response to a fire event. The defined period is of sufficient magnitude to allow a sufficient number of subsequent thermal activations to form a discharge area to envelop and flood and thereby overprotect and subjugate the fire event.

[0035] In another aspect of the preferred embodiment, another fire protection system is provided for a storage volume. The preferred system includes a plurality of thermally evaluated sprinklers coupled to a fluid source. The. Sprinkler plu- rality is preferably interconnected by a network of pipes. The network of tubes are arranged to retard the discharge of fluid from any thermally activated sprinkler for a defined period following the thermal activation of at least one sprinkler. In another embodiment, a fire protection system is provided for a storage volume. The system preferably includes a fluid source and a lift assembly in communication with the fluid source. Preferably included is a plurality of sprinklers disposed in the storage volume and coupled to the lifting assembly for controlled communication with the source of the fluid. The lifting assembly is configured to retard the discharge of fluid from the sprinklers within the storage volume for a defined period following the thermal activation of at least one sprinkler.

[0036] Another embodiment provides a protection system for a storage volume which preferably includes a fluid source, a control panel, and a plurality of sprinklers positioned in the storage volume and in controlled communication with the fluid source. Preferably, the control panel is configured to retard the discharge of fluid from the sprinklers into the storage volume for a defined period following the thermal activation of at least one sprinkler.

[0037] In yet another preferred embodiment, a fire protection system preferably includes a fluid source and a control valve in communication with the fluid source. A plurality of sprinklers is preferably disposed in the storage volume and coupled to the control valve to control communication with the fluid source. The control valve is preferably configured to retard the discharge of fluid from the sprinklers to the storage volume for a defined period following the thermal activation of at least one sprinkler.

[0038] The present invention provides protection from dry roof only sprinklers for storage on shelves where only wet systems or dry systems with shelf sprinklers were permissible. In yet another aspect of the preferred embodiment of a dry fire protection system is provided having a delay in the discharge of the compulsory fluid above the storage shelves having a storage height. Preferably, shelf storage includes encapsulated storage having a storage height of twenty feet or more. Alternatively, shelf storage includes non-encapsulated storage of at least one of the Class I, II or III articles, Group A, Group B or Group C plastics having a storage height greater than twenty-five feet. Alternatively, storage on shelves includes. Class IV items having a storage height greater than twenty-two feet. In yet another aspect, the dry fire protection system is preferably provided to include a dry roof fire protection system disposed above at least one single row, double row and multiple row.

[0039] In still another embodiment, a fire protection system is provided; the system preferably includes a ceiling-only and dry fire protection system for storage volume having a ceiling height from about twenty-five to about forty-five feet and is preferably at least one item of Classes I, II, III and IV. The plurality of sprinklers is preferably positioned so as to effect a mandatory delay in the discharge of fluid. In an alternative mode, a dry pre-action fire protection system is provided. The system preferably includes a dry roof fire protection comprising a plurality of sprinklers disposed above at least one single row, double row and multiple row storage shelves having a storage height of about twenty feet or more and is made of plastic. In another aspect of the preferred system, a roof-only fire protection system is provided comprising a plurality of sprinklers disposed above at least one shelf storage of a single, double row and multiple row having a larger storage height. that twenty-five feet and a clear height between the roof and storage of about five feet. The storage is preferably at least one of the set formed of Class III. Class IV and Group A plastic.

[0040] A roof-only dry sprinkler protection system includes a fluid source and a plurality of sprinklers in communication with the fluid source. Each sprayer is preferably configured to be thermally activated in a time ranging from a period of mandatory fluid discharge delay to discharge a fluid flow following a minimum designed delay for the sprayer.

[0041] In another aspect a dry ceiling sprinkler system for only one store is provided by defining a ceiling height at which storage houses an article having an article configuration and a stored configuration at a defined storage height. The storage of the configuration can be a storage arrangement of any of the set consisting of a shelf, palletizing, bin box and shell storage. Where the storage array is a storage shelf the array can also be configured as any of those comprised in the single row, double row, and multi-row set * The system preferably includes. u.n elevation assembly disposed between the first network and the second network, the elevator having a valve control with an inlet and an outlet.

[0042] A first pipe network preferably contains a gas and in communication with the outlet of the control valve. The gas is preferably provided by a source of pressurized air or nitrogen. The first tube network further includes a first plurality of sprinklers including at least one hydraulically remote sprinkler related to the output of the control valve and at least one sprinkler near it hydraulically also in relation to the outlet of the control valve, the first The pipe network can be configured in a loop configuration and is more preferably configured in a tree configuration. Each of the plurality of sprinklers is preferably technically evaluated to a thermal actuation of the sprinklers from an inactive state to an active state. The first plurality of sprinklers preferably further define a sprinkler operation design area having a sprinkler head space and a defined operating pressure. The system also includes a second network of tubes having a wetted main in communication with the inlet of the control valve to provide delivery of controlled fluid to the first network of tubes. [00.43] The system also includes a first mandatory fluid discharge schedule that is preferably defined as a time for the fluid to travel from the control valve outlet to at least one hydraulically remote sprinkler where the fire event occurs. initially thermally activates the at least one hydraulically remote sprinkler, the first fluid discharge delay or b I i -gatory is of such a length that a second plurality of sprinklers next to at least one hydraally remote sprinkler is thermally activated by the fire event. In a way to define an operational area of sprinklers to envelop and flood the fire event. The system also provides for a second delay in fluid discharge to define a fluid travel time from the outlet of the control valve to at least one hydraally close sprinkler where if the fire event initially activates the at least one nearby sprinkler hydraally the second delay of the discharge of the compulsory fluid is of such length that a third plurality of sprinklers next to at least one hydraally close sprinkler is thermally activated by the fire event.

[0044] The system is further preferably configured in a manner such that the plurality of sprinklers further define a hydraulic design area and a design density where the design area includes the at least one hydraulically remote sprinkler. In a preferred embodiment the hydraulic design area is preferably defined by a grid of about 25 sprinklers with, "a sprinkler spacer, sprinkler located from about 8 feet to about 12 feet. Accordingly, a preferred embodiment of the present invention provides new hydraulic design area criteria for fire protection of dry ceiling only sprinklers where protection has not previously existed. In another preferred aspect of the system the hydraulic design area is a function of at least one of the following: ceiling height, storage configuration, storage height, classification of articles and / or sprinklers at the height of the clear sprinkler to storage. Preferably, the area design is about 2,000 ft2 and in another preferred aspect the hydraulic design area is less than 2,600 ft2 in order to reduce the total fluid demand of the known dry sprinkler systems for warehouses. More preferably, the system is designed such that the area of operation of the sprinkler is less than an area that that of a dry sprinkler system sized to make 30% larger than the sprinkler area of a wet system sized for protect the same store dimension.

[0045] The system is preferably configured for roof-only protection of a storage volume in which the ceiling height is from about thirty feet to about forty-five feet, and the storage height is from about from twenty feet to about forty feet in such a way that the distance between sprinklers and storage is from about five feet to about twenty-five feet. Congruently, in another preferred aspect, the ceiling height is roughly equal to or less than forty feet, and the height of the store is from about 25 feet to about 35 feet. In another preferred aspect the ceiling height the height of the roof is roughly equal to or less than thirty-five feet and the height of the store is from about 25 feet to about 30 feet. In yet another preferred aspect, the ceiling height is roughly equal to 30 feet and the height of the roof is from about 20 feet to about 25 feet. In addition, the first and second delay period for fluid discharge are preferably a function of at least the height of the roof and the height of the store, so that where and when the height of the roof is located from about 30 feet to about 45 feet and the storage height is from about 20 feet to about 40 feet, the mandatory first fluid discharge delay is preferably less than 30 seconds and the second mandatory fluid delivery period is from about 4 to around 10 seconds.

[0046] The roof-only system is preferably configured as at least one dry pipe system, a double-lock pre-action and a single padlock pre-action. Congruently, where the system is configured as a double system. can-die, the system includes one or more spaced fire detectors related to the plurality of sprinklers so that in the case of a fire the fire detectors activate any sprinkler. To facilitate interlocking and pre-action characteristics of the system the system preferably includes a release control panel in communication with the control valve. More preferably, where the control valve is a solenoid activated control valve, the release control panel is configured to receive signals of either a low pressure or fire detection to properly energize the solenoid valve for valve activation. control, the system further preferably includes a quick release device in communication with the release control panel and capable of detecting a small lowering of the gas pressure in the first network of tubes to signal such a low release control panel. The pre-ferred sprayer for use in the roof-only dry system has a factor k of at least 11, preferably larger than 11, more preferably located from about 11 to about 36 to more preferably about 17 and still more preferably around 16.8. The thermal evaluation of the sprinklers is preferably around 286 ° F or higher. In addition, preferred sprayers have an operating pressure located from about 15 psi to about 60 psi, more preferably located from about 15 psi around 45 psi, even more preferably located. From about 20 psi to a, l, reded.or of 25 psi, and still more preferably located from around 22 psi to around 30 psi.

[0047] Congruently, another embodiment according to the present invention provides a sprinkler having a structure and a rating. The sprayer preferably includes a structure having an outlet and an inlet with a passageway disposed therebetween defining the factor of eleven or greater. A closed assembly is provided adjacent to the outlet and a thermal drive assembly is preferably provided to support the closed assembly adjacent to the outlet. In addition, the preferred sprayer includes a baffle, spaced apart, adjacent to the outlet. The sprinkler evaluation preferably requires that the sprinkler be qualified for use in a roof-only warehouse fire protection application including a dry sprinkler system configured to control a fire event with a wraparound and flooded effect for storage protection in a shelf of a storage of articles at a storage height of at least 20 feet, where the article being stored is at least one article of class I, II, III, IV and group A. More preferably, the sprayer is enlisted, as defined in NFPA 13, section 3.2.3 (2002), for use in a single roof fire and dry storage application in a warehouse.

[0048] Accordingly, the preferred qualified sprinklers are preferably tested sprinklers above a storing of articles with a grid of one sprinkler sprinklers in at least one ripple tree configuration and pipe system. Thus, a method is preferably provided for rating and more preferably by listing a sprinkler, as defined in NFPA-13, Section 3.2.3 (2002), for use in a dry roof. The sprayer preferably has an inlet and an outlet with a passage therebetween to define the K factor of at least eleven or greater. Preferably, the sprinkler includes a designed operating pressure and a thermally evaluated drive assembly to actuate the sprinkler and a spaced deflector adjacent to the outlet. The method preferably includes the fire test a sprinkler grid, formed from the sprinkler to be qualified. The grid is arranged around a stored item configuration of at least 20 feet. The method further includes discharging fluid at a desired pressure from a portion of the spray grid to protect and subjugate the test fire, discharge occurring at the designed operational pressure.

[0049] More specifically, the fire test preferably includes the ignition of the article, the thermal activation of at least one initial sprinkler in the grid above the article, and a delay in the discharge of the fluid following the thermal activation of the article. minus one sprinkler initially activated for one period so as to thermally activate a plurality of subsequent sprayers adjoining the at least one initial sprinkler so that the discharge is from e! initial activated sprinkler and subsequently. Preferably the fire test is preferably carried out at ceiling heights and for preferred storage heights.

[0050] Another preferred method according to the present invention provides a method for designing a roof-only dry fire protection system for a storage volume in which the system controls a fire with an enveloping and flooded effect. The preferred method includes defining at least one hydraulically remote sprinkler and at least one hydraulically close sprinkler in relation to the fluid source, and defining a maximum fluid discharge delay period in at least one hydraulically remote sprinkler and defining a period of minimum fluid discharge delay in at least one hydraulically close sprinkler to generate operational areas of sprinklers to flood and wrap the event by defining at least one hydraulically remote sprinkler and at least one hydraulically close sprinkler further preferably includes defining a piping system that includes an elevator assembly coupled to the fluid source, a main pipe extending from the elevator assembly and a plurality of tube branches, the plurality of pipe branches and locating at least one hydraulically remote sprinkler and one hydraulically close by along the plurality of branch pipes relative to ens-a-mbl-e- <;elevator. The method may also include defining the pipe system as at least one of a curl or tree configuration. Defining the pipe system also includes defining a hydraulic design area to support an enveloping and flooded effect, such as providing the number of sprinklers in the hydraulic area and the sprinkler space, preferably the area Hydraulic design is defined as a function of at least one parameter characterizing the storage area, the parameters being: ceiling height, storage height, article classification, storage configuration and empty height.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment defining the hydraulic design area may include a table and identify the hydraulic design area based on at least one of the storage parameters. In another aspect of the preferred method, defining the maximum fluid discharge delay preferably includes computational modeling at 10 X 10 sprinklers having at least one hydraulically remote sprinkler and at least one hydraulically close sprinkler above the stored items, the modeling includes the simulation of a free burn of the al-macerated items and the activation of sprinklers in response to free burning, preferably the maximum discharge delay period is defined as the time lapse between the first activated sprinkler around the activation of the sixteenth The sprinkler, in addition, "the p.-period of discharge delay, minimum fluid is preferably defined as the time lapse between the activation of the first sprinkler around the activation of the fourth sprinkler. The preferred method may also include iterative sprinkler system design such that the maximum fluid delivery delay period is experienced to the most remote sprinkler hydraulically, and the minimum fluid delivery delay period is experienced to the hydraulically closest sprinkler . More preferably, the method includes carrying out a computational simulation of the system including sequencing the sprinkler activation of at least one hydraulically remote sprinkler and preferably four more hydraulically remote sprinklers, and also sequencing sprinkler activation of at least one sprinkler. a hydraulically close sprinkler and preferably for hydraulically close sprinklers. The computational simulation is preferably configured to calculate the travel time from the source of fluid for the activated sprinklers.

[0052] In a preferred embodiment of the simulation method, the system of single ceiling dry sprinklers configured to envelop and flood the fire event includes simulating the first plurality of sprinklers so as to include 4 hydraulically remote sprinklers with an activation sequence of way to define a first hydraulically remote sprinkler activation, a second hydraulically remote sprinkler activation, a third hydraulically remote sprinkler activation, and a fourth hydraulically remote sprinkler activation, the second to the fourth hydraulically close sprinkler activation occur within 10 seconds within the first activation of the hydraulically remote sprinklers. In addition, the simulation defines a first mandatory fluid delivery delay so that no fluid is discharged at the operating pressure designed from the first hydraulically remote sprinkler at the time of the first hydraulically remote sprinkler activation, no fluid is discharged to the operating pressure designed from the second hydraulically remote sprinkler at the time of activation of the second hydraulically remote sprinkler no fluid is discharged to the operating pressure designed from the third hydraulically remote sprinkler at the time of the third activation of the hydraulically remote sprinkler and no fluid is discharged at the operating pressure designed from the fourth hydraulically remote sprinkler at the time of activation of the fourth hydraulically remote sprinkler. More specifically, the first, second, third and fourth sprayers are configured positioned and / or sequenced-two such that none of the four hydraulically remote sprinklers undergo the operating pressure designed prior to the time of activation of the four hydraulically remoter sprinklers .

[0053] Additionally, the system is further simulated preferably such that the first plurality of sprinklers includes four hydraulically close sprinklers with an activation sequence so as to define a first hydraulically close sprinkler activation, a second hydraulically close sprinkler activation, a third hydraulically close sprinkler activation and a fourth hydraulically close sprinkler activation, the second to fourth hydraulically close sprinkler activation occurs within 10 seconds after the first sprinkler activation hydraulically near. Furthermore, the system is simulated to define a second mandatory fluid delivery delay so that no fluid is discharged to the designated operating pressure from the first hydraulically close sprinkler at the time of the first activation of the hydraulically remote sprinkler, no fluid is discharged at the designated operating pressure from the second hydraulically close sprinkler at the time of the second hydraulically remote sprinkler activation, no fluid is discharged at the designated operating pressure from the third hydraulically close sprinkler at the time of third activation of the hydraulically remote sprinkler and no fluid is discharged at the designated operating pressure from the fourth hydraulically close sprinkler at the time of the fourth activation of the hydraulically remote sprinkler. More specifically the first, second, third and fourth sprayers are configured, positioned or sequenced-two such that none of the four hydraulically close sprinklers will experience the operating pressure designed prior to or at the time of activation of the four sprinklers hydraulically more close. (0054) Congruently, no preferred embodiment of the present invention provides a database, a look-up table or a data table to designate a dry sprinkler system only of roofs for a store. The data table preferably includes a first, data array characterizing the store, a second data array characterizing a sprayer, a third data array identifying a hydraulic design area as a function of the first and second data array, and a fourth arrangement of data identifying a period of maximum delay of discharge of fluid and a minimum period of delay of discharge of fluid each one having a function of the first, second and third data array. Preferably, the data table is configured such that the data table is configured as a look-up table in which any of the first, second and third data arrays determines the fourth data array. Alternatively, the database may be a maximum period of specified fluid delivery delay to be incorporated in a dry ceiling only sprinkler system to control a fire in a warehouse with a sprinkler operating area having enveloping and flooded configuration around of the fire event for a given ceiling height, storage height and article classification. . . . . (0055) The present invention can provide one or more subsystem, component and / or associated fire protection methods. Congruently, a process preferably provides methods and / or systems for fire protection. The method preferably includes obtaining a sprinkler rating for use in a dry ceiling fire protection system for a store having at least one of: i) classes I to III, group A, group B, or group C with a height of storage larger than 25 feet; and ii) class IV with a storage height greater than 22 feet. The method further preferably includes distributing to a user the sprayer for use in a fire protection application in a warehouse. In addition, or alternatively, the process may include obtaining a qualified system, subsystem, component or method of dry roof fire protection for storage systems and distributing the system, as subsystem, component or qualified method from a first part to a second part for use in the fire protection application. (0056) Accordingly, the present invention can provide for a kit for a dry ceiling sprinkler system for fire protection of a warehouse. The kit preferably includes a sprinkler qualified for use in a single roof dry sprinkler system for a warehouse having a ceiling height of up to about 45 feet and items having storage heights of up to about 40 feet. In addition, the kit preferably includes an elevator assembly to control the delivery of fluid to sprinkler n crenellations, the preferred kit furthermore, provides a data sheet for the kit, in which the data sheet identifies parameters for using the kit, the parameters including a hydraulic design area a maximum fluid delivery period for a more hydraulically remote sprinkler and a minimum delay period for fluid release to a hydraulically closest sprinkler. Preferably, the kit includes a straight sprayer having a de facto k of 17 and a temperature rating of about 286 ° F. More preferably the sprayer is qualified for the protection of the article being at least one of the class I, II, III, IV, and group A of plastic, the elevator assembly includes a control valve having an inlet and an outlet, the Lift assembly further comprises a pressure switch for communication with the valve control in another preferred embodiment a control panel included to control the pressure between the pressure switch and the control valve. AdditionallyAt least one shut-off valve is provided for coupling at least one inlet or outlet of the control valve, and a check valve is preferably provided to be coupled for the outlet of the check valve. Alternatively, an arrangement can be provided in which the control valve and the lift assembly can be configured with an intermediate chamber in order to eliminate the need for a ch.ekk valve in. yet another preterm modality of the kit, a computer program or software application is provided to model, design or simulate the system to determine and verify the fluid delivery delay period for one or more sprinklers in the system more preferably the program of Computer or software application can simulate or verify that the hydraulically remote sprinkler experiences the maximum delay period and the hydraulically close sprinkler experiences the minimum period of fluid delivery delay. In addition, the computer program or software is preferably configured to model and simulate the system including sequencing the activation of one or more sprinklers and verifying the delivery of fluid to one or more activated sprinklers in compliance with a period of mandatory fluid delivery delay. wanted. More preferably, the program can sequence the activation of at least four remotes hydraulically or alternatively four sprinklers close to each other hydraulically in the system and verify the delivery of the fluid to the four sprinklers. (0057) The preferred process for systems and / or methods of fire protection provision more specifically can include, disconnect from an installation criterion from a first part to a second part to install the sprinkler in a single protection system. Dry roof for a warehouse. Providing installation criteria preferably includes a! less one of the item classification, and storage configuration. specifying a minimum empty space between storage height and a sprinkler deflector, specifying a maximum coverage area and a minimum coverage area on a base per sprinkler in the system specifying sprinkler spacing requirements in the system, specifying a hydraulic design area and a design operating pressure; and specifying a period of delay of delivery of designed fluid. In another preferred embodiment, specifying a delivery delay of fluid may include delay specifications so as to promote an enveloping and flooded effect to control a fire event in the store. More preferably, specifying a designed fluid delivery that includes specifying a fluid delivery delay falling between a maximum delay period and a minimum period of fluid delivery delay where, more preferably; and specifying a period of delay of delivery of fluid designed. In another preferred embodiment specifying a fluid delay may include specifying the delay in a manner to promote an enveloping and flooded effect to control a fire event in a store. More preferably, specifying a fluid delivery delay includes specifying a fluid delivery delay that falls between a maximum period of fluid delivery delay and a minimum period of fluid delivery delay where more preferably periods of minimum and maximum delay of fluid delivery are specified to occur to sprinklers hydraulically *, more, - remotely and hydraulically .mas. close respectively. (0058) In another preferred aspect of the process the specification of a fluid delivery delay is preferably a function of at least one of those comprising: the ceiling height, the article classification, the storage configuration, the height of storage, and the height of the space between roof and storage. Congruently, the design of the fluid delivery delay period preferably includes providing a table of time data of fluid delivery delays with a function of at least one of the ceiling height, calcification of the article, storage configuration, height of the storage and height of empty space. (0059) In another preferred aspect of the process, the provision of installation springs also includes system components for use with Iso sprinklers, the specification of system sprinklers preferably includes specifying a lift assembly to control fluid flow to the system of sprinklers and specify a control mechanism to implement the design fluid delivery delay. In addition, the process may also include specifying a fire detection device for communication with the control mechanism to provide criteria for installing pre-reaction valves. The process can also provide that these installation criteria are listed on a data sheet, which may also include: publishing the data sheet on at least one of paper media and electronic media. (0060) Another aspect of the preferred process preferably includes obtaining a sprinkler for use in a single roof dry sprinkler system for a warehouse. In one embodiment of the process, obtaining preferably includes supplying the sprayer. Providing the sprinkler preferably includes providing a sprinkler body having an inlet and outlet with a passage therebetween so as to define a factor k of about 11 or greater, preferably about 17 and more preferably 16.8, and furthermore provide a drive assembly having a thermal rating of about 286 ° F. (0061) Another aspect preferably provides that the obtainment qualifies the sprayer and more preferably lists the sprayer with an organization acceptable to an authority having jurisdiction over the warehouses, such as, for example, Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. Congruently, obtaining the spray may include fire tests testing the sprinkler rating, the test preferably includes defining acceptable test criteria including fluid demands and operating pressures of the designated system. Furthermore, the test includes locating a plurality of sprinklers in a ceiling with a sprinkler spacer spacing at a ceiling height, the grid adjoining "this located above a stored article having a classification of the article, a configuration of storage and a storage height. Preferably, locating the plurality of sprinklers includes locating 169 sprinklers in an 8 by 8 foot grid or alternatively 100 sprinklers in the ceiling sprinkler grid at a spacing of 10 feet by 10 feet. Alternatively, any number of sprinklers can form the grid as long as the spacing between sprinkler and sprinkler can provide at least one sprinkler for every 64 ft2 or alternatively one sprinkler for every 100 ft2. More generally, the location of the plurality of sprinklers preferably provides for locating a sufficient number of sprinklers in order to provide at least one ring of activated sprinklers once surrounding the activated sprinklers during the test, furthermore, it includes in the test an event of fire in the articles, and delay the discharge of fluid from the sprinkler grid in order to activate a number of sprinklers and discharge of a fluid by any of the sprinklers activated in the operating pressure of the system designed to control the Fire event in an enveloping and flooded configuration. In addition, defining the criteria for acceptable testing preferably includes defining fluid demand as a function of design sprinkler activation to effectively protect and subjugate a fire with a wraparound configuration and, preferably, flooding the designed sprinkler activation. less than 40% of the total of sprinklers in the grid, more preferably, the designed sprinkler activation is less than 37% of the total sprinklers in the grid to more preferably less than 20% of the total sprinklers in the grid. (0062) In the preferred embodiment of the process, delaying the fluid discharge includes delaying the fluid discharge for a period of time as a function of at least one of the parameters: item classification, storage configuration, storage height and Empty height sprinklers-storage. The delayed discharge of the fluid may also include determining the period of fluid delay from a computing model of the article and the warehouse, in which the model solves for activation times for sprinklers free of burning so that the delivery delay of the fluid is the time lapse between a first sprinkler activation and at least one of the following events: (i) a critical number of sprinkler activations; and (ii) a number of sprinklers equivalent to an operational area capable of enveloping and flooding the fire event.

[0063] The distribution from a first part to a second part of any of the system, subsystems, preferred components, preferably sprinklers and / or methods to at least one of the retailer, supplier, system installer or warehouse operator. The distribution may include transfer by means of at least one of distribution, floor, air distribution, external distribution and on-line distribution.

[0064] Accordingly, the present invention further provides a method of transferring a sprinkler for use in a single roof dry sprinkler system to protect a store from a first part to a second part. The sprinkler distribution may include advertising information regarding the sprinkler's qualification in at least one of: a paper publication and an online publication. further, advertising in an online publication preferably includes housing an array of data regarding the quality of the sprayer in a first computer processing device such as, for example, a server preferably coupled in a network for communication with at least a second computer processing device. The housing may further include configuring the data array so as to include a directory authority element, a K factor data element, a temperature evaluation and a sprinkler data configuration element. Configuring the data array includes preferably configuring the listing element of the authority as at least one of UL and / or FACTORY MUTUAL (FM) Apprevals (From here "FM"), setting the factor data element as being around 17 , configuring the temperature evaluation data element as being around 286 ° F, and configuring the sprinkler making the configuration of the data elements as straight. Hosting an array of data can also include identification of dry sprinkler system parameters for single roof parameters including: a hydraulic design area that includes a number of sprinklers and or a sprinkler space to sprinkler, a maximum delay period of delivery of fluid to a more remote hydraulic sprinkler, and a minimum period of delay of fluid discharge to the hydraulically closest sprinkler.

[0065] Further provided by a preferred embodiment of the present invention is a sprinkler system for the discharge of a fire protection arrangement. The system preferably includes a first computational processing device on a network and a database stored in the first computational processing device. Preferably the network is at least one of a WAN (Wide Area Network), LAN (Local Area Network) and INTER-NET. The database preferably includes a plurality of data arrays. The first data array preferably identifies a sprinkler for use in a single roof dry fire protection system for a storage volume. The first data array preferably includes a K-factor, a valued temperature and a hydraulic design area. The second data arrangement preferably identifies stored articles, the second data arrangement preferably includes an article classification, a storage configuration and a storage height ... The third data arrangement identifies, preferably a maximum download delay for the discharge time to the hydraulically most remote sprinkler, the third data element being a function of the first and second data. A fourth data array preferably identifies a period of fluid discharge delay by the discharge time to the hydraulically closest sprinkler, the fourth data array being a function of the first and second data array.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES [0066] The attached drawings, which are incorporated herein and constitute part of this description, illustrate embodiments of the invention, and together with the general description given above and the detailed description given below, serve to explain the characteristics of the invention. invention. It should be understood that the preferred embodiments are not the entirety of the invention but are examples provided by the appended claims.

[0067] FIG.1 is an illustrative embodiment of a preferred dry sprinkler system located in a storage area having a stored article.

[0068] FIG.1A is a schematic illustration of a dry portion of the system of FIG. 1.. ..

[0069] FIGS.2A-2C are schematic views respectively in plan, side, and perspective of the storage areas of FIG.1.

[0070] FIG. 3 is an illustrated flow chart for general predictive heat and sprinkler drive profiles.

[0071] FIG. 4 is an illustration of the heat discharge and predictive profile of sprinkler activation.

[0072] FIG. 5 is a sprinkler activation profile and predictive heat discharge for an article stored in a storage test area.

[0073] FIG. 5A It is a profile of activation of a sprinkler from a real fire test of the stored article of FIG.5.

[0074] FIG. 6 is another predictive heat discharge and sprinkler activation profile for another article stored in a storage area under test.

[0075] FIG.6A It is a sprinkler activation profile from a real fire test of the storage article of FIG.6.

[0076] FIG.7 It is yet another predictive heat release and sprinkler activation profile for yet another storage article in a storage storage area.

[0077] FIG.7A It is a sprinkler activation profile from a real fire test of the stored article of FIG.7.

[0078] FIG.8 It is another predictive heat discharge and sprinkler activation profile for another article stored in a test storage area.

[0079] FIG.9 It is yet another predictive heat release and sprinkler activation profile for another article stored in a storage storage area.

[0080] FIG.9A It is a sprinkler activation profile obtained from a real fire test of the article stored in FIG.9.

[0081] FIG. 10 is another predictive heat release and sprinkler activation profile for another article stored in a test storage area.

[0082] FIG. 10A is a sprinkler activation profile obtained from a real fire clearance of the article of FIG.10.

[0083] FIG.11 There is still another profile of predictive heat release and sprinkler activation for another article stored in a test storage area.

[0084] FIG.12 There is still another predictive heat release profile and sprinkler activation for another article stored in a test storage area.

[0085] FIG.12A is a sprinkler activation profile obtained from a real fire test of the stored article of FIG.12.

[0086] FIG.13 is a flow chart illustrative of a preferred design methodology.

[0087] FIG.13A is an alternative illustrative flow chart for designing preferred sprinklers.

[0088] FIG. 13B is a preferred hydraulic design criterion and point.

[0089] FIG.14 is an illustrative flow chart for dynamically designing and modeling a sprayer.

[0090] FIG.15 is a cross-sectional view of the preferred sprayer for use in the system. of sprinklers of FIG.1. . .

[0091] FIG.16 is a sprinkler plant view of FIG.15.

[0092] FIG.17 is a schematic view of a lifting assembly installed for use in the system of FIG.1.

[0093] FIG. 17 A It is a flow chart for the elevator system and assembly of Figure 17.

[0094] FIG.18 is a schematic view of a computerized processing device for practicing one or more aspects of preferred systems and methods of fire protection.

[0095] JFIGS, 18A-18C are front and planar side views of a preferred fire protection system.

[0096] FIG.19 is a schematic view of a network for practicing one or more aspects of preferred systems and fire protection methods.

[0097] FIG. 20 is a schematic flow chart of the distribution lines of the preferred system and method.

[0098] FIG.21 is a cross-sectional view and a preferred control valve for use in the lifting assembly of FIG.17.

MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Fire Protection Systems Configured To Control A Fire With An Enclosed And Aged Configuration.

[0099] A preferred dry sprinkler system 10 as seen in FIG. 1, is configured to protect an article 50 stored in a storage volume or area 70. System 10 includes a network of tubes. having a wet portion 12 and a dry portion 14 preferably coupled together by a water control valve 16 which is preferably a pre-reaction or deluge valve or alternatively an air-water ratio valve. The wet portion 12 is preferably connected to a supply of extinguishing liquid such as for example water mainly. The dry portion 14 includes a network of sprinklers 20 interconnected by a network of tubes filled with air or another gas. The air pressure within the dry portion alone or in combination with other control mechanism controls the closed open state of the primary water control valve 16. By opening the primary water control valve 16, water is released from the wet portion 12 within the dry portion 14 of the system to be discharged through an open sprinkler., 20. The wet portion 12 may further include additional devices (not shown), such as, for example, fire pumps, or valves in a single direction to release water to the dry portion 14 at a desired expense or pressure.

[0100] The preferred sprinkler system 10 is configured to protect the stored article 50 by controlling a fire growth 72 in the storage area 70 with an operational area 26 of preferred sprinklers as seen in FIG.1. An operational area 26 of sprinklers is preferably defined by a minimum number of thermally activated trigger sprinklers 72 which envelop and flood an event or fire growth 72. More specifically the operational area 26 of preferred sprinklers is formed by a minimum number of appropriately spaced and activated sprinklers configured to release a volume of water or other extinguishing fluid having adequate flow characteristics, for example, spending and / or pressure to overprotect and subjugate the fire from above. The number of thermally activated sprinklers 20 define in operational area 26 and is preferably and substantially smaller than the total number of sprinklers available 20 in the dry portion 14 of system 10. The number of activated sprinklers forming the operational area 26 of sprinklers it is minimized by both effective handling and minimizes the extent of water discharge from the system. "Activated" used in this description means that the sprinklers are in an open state to discharge the water.

[0101] In operation, the dry ceiling only sprinkler system 10 is preferably configured to handle a fire with a wraparound and flooded effect, it could initially respond to a low fire with at least one thermal sprinkler activation. With the activation of I sprinkler 20, compressed air or other gas in the network of pipes can escape, and alone or in combination with a fire or smoke indicator, leaving open the first water control valve 16. The control valve of open primary water 16 allows water or other extinguishing fluid to flow to fill the pipe network and travel to sprinklers 20 as water flows through the pipe system 10 the primary water control valve 16 allows water or other fluid extinguisher to fill the pipe network and travel to the activated sprinklers 20 when the water travels through the system 10 pipe, the absence of water, and more specifically the absence of water at the operating discharge pressure designed in the Storage area 70 allows the fire to grow by releasing additional heat in the storage area 70. The water eventually reaches the group of activated sprinklers and eventually begins to discharge over the fire from the preferred operational area 20 constructed to operate the pressure allowing still a continuous increase in the rate of heat release. The added heat continues the thermal activation of. additional sprinklers next to the initiator activated sprinkler to preferably define the operation area 26 of sprinklers AND configuration for wrapping and flooding the fire. The water discharge reaches the full operating pressure outside the operational area 26 in an enveloping and flooded configuration in order to overprotect and subjugate the fire. As used herein, "wrapping and swamping" as used herein means substantially wrapping a burning area with a discharge of water to quickly reduce the rate of heat release. In addition, the system is configured such that all activated sprinklers forming the operating area 26 are preferably activated within a predetermined period of time. More specifically, the last activated sprinkler occurs within 10 minutes after the first thermal sprinkler activation in system 10. More preferably, the last sprinkler is activated within 8 minutes and more preferably, the last sprinkler is activated within 5 minutes of the first sprinkler activation in system 10.

[0102] To eliminate or minimize the period of fluid release delay, water can be introduced into the storage area 70 prematurely, inhibit the growth of the fire and prevent the formation of the desired sprinkler operation area 26. However, to introduce water too late in the storage area 70 can allow the fire to grow so much that the system 10 can not overwhelm and adequately subject the fire, or at best, it can only serve to retard the growth of the rate of heat release. Consequently, the system 10 necessarily requires a delay period of fluid or water release of a suitable extension to effectively form a sprinkler operation area 26 sufficient to surround and flood the fire. To form the sprinkler operating area 26, the sprinkler system 10 includes at least one sprinkler 20 with an appropriately configured fluid release delay period. More preferably, to ensure that a sufficient number of sprinklers 20 is thermally activated to form a sprinkler operating area 26 anywhere in the system 10 sufficient to surround and flood the fire growth 72, each sprinkler in the system 10 has an appropriately configured fluid release delay period. The period of fluid release delay is preferably measured from the moment following the thermal activation of at least one of the sprinklers 20 at the time of fluid discharge from one or more sprinklers forming the desired sprinkler operation area., preferably at the operating pressure of the system. The period of fluid release delay, following the activation of at least one sprinkler 20 in response to a fire under the sprinkler, allows unimportant fire to grow by the introduction of water or other fire control fluid. The inventors ,. It has now been discovered that the period of fluid release delay can be configured such that the resulting fire growth activates additional sprinklers adjacent, next or peripheral to the initially driven spray 20. The water discharge from the activation of the resulting sprinklers defines the Sprinkler operation area 26 for wrapping and flooding controlling and smothering the fire. Consequently, the size of an operation area 26 is preferably immediately related to the extension of the fluid release delay period. The extension of the fluid release delay period, the extent of fire growth, results in more sprinkler activation to form a more extensive sprinkler operating area 26. Reciprocally a shorter fluid release delay period results in a smaller operating area 26.[0103] Because the period of delay of fluid release is preferably a function of time of travel of the fluid following the activation of the first sprayer, the period of delay of release of fluid is preferably a function of the time of travel for the first water control valve 16, the time of transition of water through the system, and the copying. These fluid release delay factors are more fully discussed in a publication of TYPO F1RE &BULDING PRODUCTS entitled "A Technical Analysis: Variables Affecting the Execution of the Dry Pipe System (2002) by James Golinveau-x. It is incorporated in its entirety, -., as reference.The tripping time of the valve is usually controlled by the air pressure in the line, the absence or presence of an accelerator, and in the case of an air-to-air ratio. valve water, the valve releases pressure.In addition, the fluid release delay period is impacted by the fluid transition time from the first control valve 16 to the activated sprinklers.The transition time is dictated by the pressure of the valve. fluid supply, the air / gas ratio in the pipe and the volume and arrangement of the pipe in the system, compression is the measure of time since the water reaches the activated sprinkler at the moment of water discharge or pressure of fire fighting fluid is maintained at or above the minimum operating pressure of the sprayer.

[0104] It should be understood that because the preferred fluid release delay period is a designed or mandatory delay, preferably of a defined duration, this is different from the inherent and / or random delay that can be experienced in dry sprinkler systems common. More specifically, the dry portion 14 can be designed and positioned to effect the desired delay, for example, by modification or configuration of the system volume, tube distance and or tube sizes.

[0105] The dry portion 14 and its pipe networks preferably include a main riser pipe connected to the first water control valve 16, and a main pipe 22 to which one or more separate branch pipes 24 are connected. The pipe network may also include pipe assemblies such as connectors, elbows and elevations, etc. to connect portions of the network and form curves and / or configurations of tree branches in the dry portion 14, consequently, the dry pipe 14 may have a variety of transitions of elevations or inclinations of a section of the dry portion to another section of the dry portion. The sprinklers 20 are preferably mounted to and / or branched tube 24 spaced apart longitudinally and spaced apart to form a desired sprinkler spacing.

[0106] The sprinkler head spacing can be six feet by six feet (6 feet by 6 feet), eight feet by eight feet (8 feet by 8 feet), ten feet by ten feet (10 feet by 10 feet) , twenty feet by twenty feet (20 feet X 20 feet) and some other combination or range among these, depending on the hydraulic design requirements of the system. Based on the configuration of the dry portion 14, the sprinkler network 20 includes at least one sprinkler 21 hydraulically far or hydraulically more in demand and at least one sprinkler 23 hydraulically closed or hydraulically less de-ordered, ie the sprinkler less distant , with respect to the first water control valve 16 separates the wet portion 12 from the dry portion 14. Generally, a sprinkler suitable for use in a dry sprinkler system configured to provide sufficient service, cool and control a fu_e.go with an in-volvente effect and flooded. More specifically, sprinklers 20 are preferably optimal to be applied as storage sprinklers having a factor k in the range of about 11 to about 36.; however, alternatively, sprinklers 20 can be configured as hanging dry sprinklers. More preferably, the sprinklers have a nominal k-factor of 16.8. As is understood in the art, the nominal factor k identifies the discharge characteristics of the sprinklers as provided in table 6.2.3.1 of NFPA-13 which is incorporated herein by reference in particular. Alternatively, sprinklers 20 may be of a nominal k-factor which are provided for inhalation and configuration in a system for releasing a fluid flow in accordance with the requirements of the system. More specifically, the sprinklers 20 can have a nominal k-factor of 11.2; 14.0; 16.8; 19.6; 22.4; 25.2; 28.0; 36 or higher providing that if the sprinkler has a nominal facto k greater than 28, the sprinkler increases the flow by 100% compared to a sprinkler with a nominal k-factor of 5.6 as required by NFPA-13 section 6.2.3.3 that it is specifically incorporated herein as a reference. On the other hand, sprinklers 20 may be specified in accordance with section 12.1.13 of NFPA-13 which is specifically incorporated as a reference. Preferably, the sprinklers 20 are configured to be thermally driven at 286 ° F however the sprinklers may be specified to have a suitable range of temperature for a given storage application including temperatures in a range greater than 286. F. The sprinklers 20 may be specified within the range of temperatures and classifications as listed in Table 6.2.5.1 of NFPA-13 which is specifically incorporated herein by reference. In addition, sprinklers 20 preferably have an operating pressure greater than 15 psi, preferably in a range of approximately 15 psi to approximately 60 psi, more preferably in the ruffle approximately 15 psi to approximately 45 psi, to a more preferably in the range from about 20 psi to about 35 psi and still more preferably in the range from about 22 psi to about 30 psi.

[0107] Preferably the system 10 is configured to include a mandatory maximum delay period of fluid release and a mandatory minimum period of delay of fluid release. The mandatory minimum and maximum delay periods of fluid release can be selected from a range of acceptable delay periods as described in greater detail below. The period of mandatory maximum delay of fluid release is the period of time following the thermal activation of at least one sprinkler 21 hydraulically distant at the time of discharge from at least one sprinkler 21 hydraulically far from the operating pressure of the system. The period of mandatory minimum delay of fluid release is preferably configured to define an extension of time following the thermal activation of hydraulically far sprinkler 21 which allows thermal activation of a sufficient number of sprinklers around the sprinkler 21 hydraulically further away which together form the maximum operating area 27 of sprinklers for the system 10 to wrap and flood a fire growth 72 as schematically shown in Fig. 1 A.

[0108] The mandatory minimum period of delay of fluid release is the period of time following the thermal activation of at least one sprinkler 23 hydraulically closed at the time of discharge from at least one sprinkler 23 hydraulically closed at the operating pressure of the system. The mandatory minimum delay period of fluid release is preferably configured to define an extension of time following the thermal activation of the hydraulically closed sprinkler 23 that allows the thermal activation of a sufficient number of sprinklers around the hydraulically closed sprinkler 23 for together form the minimum operating area 28 for the system 10 for wrapping and flooding the fire growth 72. Preferably, the minimum operation area of sprinklers 28, is defined by a critical number of sprinklers including the hydraulically closed sprinkler 23. The critical number of sprinklers can be defined as the minimum number of sprinklers that can introduce water into the storage area 70, impact the growth of fire, still allowing the fire to continue growing and triggering a number. additional sprinklers to form the desired sprinkler operation area 26 to envelop and flood fire growth.

[0109] With the periods of maximum and minimum delay of fluid release affecting the sprinklers 21, 23 hydraulically farthest and most closed respectively, each sprinkler 20 is arranged between the sprinkler 21 hydraulically farthest and the sprinkler 23 hydraulically more closed than has a delay period of fluid release in the range between the mandatory maximum delay period of fluid release and e) mandatory minimum re-release period of fluid release. The periods of maximum and minimum delay of fluid release provided result respectively in the areas of maximum and minimum operation of sprinklers 27, 28, the periods of delay of release of fluid from each sprinkler facilitate the formation of a sprinkler operation area 26 to smother a fire growth 72 with an envelope and waterlogged configuration.

[0110] The delay period for releasing fluid from a sprinkler 20 is preferably a function of the sprinkler distance or the length of the tube to the first water control valve 16 and may also be a function of the volume of the system (trap air). d) and / or tube size alternatively, the period of fluid release delay may be a function of a fluid control device to delay the release of water from the first water control valve 16 to the thermally activated sprayer 20. The period of mandatory delay of fluid release may also be a function of many other factors of the system 10 including, for example, the water demand and the required water flow supply pumps or other independent components of the system. To incorporate a specific fluid release delay period within the sprinkler system 10, the pipe of a given length and the cross-sectional area are preferably constructed within the system 10 such that hydraulically farther sprinkler 21 experiences the period of mandatory maximum delay of fluid release and the hydraulically closed sprayer 23 undergoes the mandatory minimum delay period of fluid release.

[0111] Alternatively the pipe system 10 may include some other fluid control device such as, for example, an accelerator or accumulator depending on the hydraulically farther sprinkler 21 undergoes the mandatory maximum delay period of fluid release and hydraulically closed sprinkler 23 experiences the minimum period of mandatory delay of fluid release. Alternatively, the configuration of the system 10 is such that the hydraulically furthest sprinkler 21 undergoes the mandatory maximum delay period of fluid release and the hydraulically closed sprinkler 23 undergoes the mandatory minimum delay period of fluid release, the system 10 can configured so that each sprinkler in the system 10 experiences a period of fluid release delay that lies between or within the range of delay defined by the mandatory maximum delay period of fluid release and the minimum delay period of fluid release. Accordingly, the system 10 can form a maximum sprinkler operation area 27 less than if the maximum delay period of fluid release were incorporated. In addition, the system 10 may experience an extremely minimal sprinkler operation area 28 having the minimum delay period of fluid release employed.

[0112] The schematizations shown in Figures 2A-2C are respectively a flat, side and top view of the system 10 in the storage area 70 illustrating various factors that can impact the fire growth 72 and sprinkler activation responses. The thermal activation of the sprinklers 20 of the system 20 may be a function of many factors including, for example, heat release from the increased fire, ceiling height or storage area 70, location of sprinklers with respect to the ceiling, classification of the articles 50 and the storage height of the articles 50. More specifically, it shows the dry pipe sprinkler system 10 installed in the storage area 70 as a system of dry pipe sprinklers only of suspended ceiling under the roof that has a ceiling height of H1. The roof may have some configuration including some of: a flat roof, a horizontal roof, a curved roof or combinations of these. The ceiling height is preferably defined by the distance between the floor and the underside of the upper roof (or roof deck) within the area to be protected, and more preferably is defined by the maximum height between the floor and the wall. bottom of roof top (or roof deck). The individual sprinklers preferably include a deflector located from the ceiling at a distance S located in the storage area 70 which is the stored article configured as an article arrangement 50 preferably of a type C which may include one of the products of the product. NAFPA-13 defined as class I, II, III or IV alternatively plastics, elastomers, and gums of group A, group B or group C or others of other type of articles capable of having a characterized combustion behavior. The array 50 may be characterized by one or more of the parameters provided and defined in section 3.9.1 of NAFPA-13 which are specifically incorporated herein by reference. The array 50 can be stored at a storage height H2 to define a free space between the storage and the ceiling L. The storage height preferably defines the maximum storage height. The storage height may alternatively be defined to appropriately characterize the storage configuration. Preferably the storage height A2 is 20 feet or greater. In addition, the storage arrangement 50 preferably _.de- _. fine a storage arrangement like multi-shelf shelves. More preferably a storage arrangement of double-row shelves but other storage configurations are possible such as, for example, a shelf without solid shelves, palletizing, trays, shell, or single-rack shelves. The storage area may also include additional storages of the same different item spaced in a width of aisle W in the same different configuration.

[0113] To identify the maximum and minimum retracement periods of fluid release to be incorporated into the system 10 and the ranges available therebetween, predict sprinkler activation response profiles can be used for a particular sprinkler system, articles , storage height and ceiling height of the storage area. Preferably, the prediction of activation response profiles for a dry sprinkler system 10 in a storage space 70, for example as seen in Fig. 4, shows the predictive thermal activation times for each sprinkler 20 in the system 10 in response to simulated fire growth over a period of time without the introduction of water, to alter the heat release profile of fire growth 72. From these profiles, a system operator or sprinkler designer can predict or approximately how long it takes to form the maximum and minimum areas of operation of sprinklers 27, .2.8 described above following a first activation of sprinklers to envelop and flood a fire event. The specification of the maximum and minimum operation areas of designed sprinklers 27,28 and the development of the predictive profiles are described in greater detail below.

[0114] Because the predictive profiles indicate the times to thermally activate any number of sprinklers 20 in the system 10, a user can use a sprinkler activation profile to determine the maximum and minimum delay periods of noise release. As a result of the identification of the maximum period of fluid release, a designer and another user can observe the profile of predictive activation of the sprinkler to identify the time lapse between the activation of the first sprinkler for the moment the number of sprinklers that form the area of maximum specified sprinkler operation 27 that are thermally activating. Similarly, to identify the minimum delay period of fluid release, a designer or another user can observe the predictive sprinkler activation profile to identify the time lapse between the activation of the first sprinkler at the time the number of sprinklers form the specified minimum sprinkler operating area 28 that are thermally activated. The maximum and minimum fluid release delay periods define a range of fluid release delay periods that can be incorporated into the system or form at least one sprinkler operation area 26 in the system 10.

[0115] The dry sprinkler system 10 described above is configured to form a sprinkler operation area 26 for controlling and stifling the growth of fire in the protection of a storage occupation. The inventors have discovered that to use a mandatory delay period of fluid release in a dry sprinkler system, a sprinkler operation area can be configured to respond to a fire with an enveloping and drowning configuration. The period of mandatory delay of fluid release is preferably a period of time during which the system delays the release of water or other fire fighting fluid to an activated sprinkler. The period of mandatory fluid release delay for a dry sprinkler system configured with a sprinkler operating area is different from the maximum water demand time under current dry pipe release design methods. Specifically the period of mandatory delay of fluid release ensures that the water is expelled from an activated sprinkler at a certain time or defined period of time such as to form an operation area of enveloping and water-logged sprinklers.

Generation of predictive heat release.

[0116] The generation of predictive sprinkler activation profiles to identify the maximum and minimum delay periods of fluid release for a given sprinkler system located in a storage space 70, a fire growth can be modeled in space 70 and the release of heat from the growth of fire can be profiled in a time. Over the same period of time, the sprinkler activation response can be solved and plotted. The flow chart of Figure 3 shows a preferred process 80 for generating the predictive profiles of heat release and activation of sprinklers used in the given retardation periods of fluid release and Figure 4 shows the illustrative predictive heat release. and the sprinkler activation profile 400. The development of the predictive profiles includes modeling the article to be protected in a simulated fire scenario under a sprinkler system. To model the fire scenario, at least three physical aspects or the system to be modeled are considered: (i) the geometric arrangement of the scenario is modeled; (ii) the fuel characteristics of the fuel materials involved in the scenario; and (iii) sprinkler characteristics of the sprinkler system that protect the products. The modeling is preferably developed by computer and then it is transferred to the storage space of the physical domain within the computational domain, numerical and non-physical characteristics are also considered. ,

[0117] The computational modeling is preferably preformed using FDS, as described above, which can predict the release of heat from a fire growth and also predict the sprinkler activation time. The NIST publications are correctly available and describe the requirements and functional capacities for the modeling of fire scenarios in FDS. These publications include: NIST special publication 1019: fire dynamics Simulator (version 4) user's guide (March 2006) and NIST special publication 1018: fire dynamics Simulator (version 4) technical refrence guide (March 2006) each of which it is incorporated in its entirety as a reference. Alternatively some other fire modeling simulator can be used as much as the simulator can predict the activation or predictive detection of sprinklers.

[0118] As described in the FDS techinical reference guide, FDS is a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model of fire control fluid flow. The model numerically solves a form of the Navier-Stokes equation for low speed, thermal control flow with an emphasis on smoke and heat transported from the fire. The partial derivatives of the conservation of mass equations of mass, momentum, and energy are approximated as finite differences, and the solution is attenuated in a time in third dimension, in rectilinear grid, consequently, included among the input parameters required by FDS is information about the numeric grid. The numerical grid is one or more rectilinear meshes to which all the geometric characteristics must conform. On the other hand, the computational domain is preferably more defined in the areas within the fuel array where the fire occurs. Outside this region, in areas where computing is limited to predict heat and mass transfer, the grid may be less refined. Generally, the computational grid can be sufficiently resolved to allow at least one, or more preferably two or three complete computational elements within the longitudinal and transverse duct space between the modeled communities. The size of the individual elements of the grid mesh can be uniform, however preferably, the individual elements are orthogonal elements with an elongated side having a dimension of between 10 to 150 millimeters and a radius aspect of less than 0.5.

[0119] In the first step 82 of the predictive modeling method, the articles are preferably modeled in their stored configuration for the calculation for the geometrical array parameters of the scenario. These parameters preferably include the location and sizes of combustible materials, the ignition location of the fire growth, and other variables of the mace space. Slow as a ceiling height and enclosed volume. Additionally, the model preferably includes variables that describe storage array configurations including the number of array rows, array dimensions including array height, the article and size of a single product stored package, and the ventilation configuration.

[0120] In a modeled example, as described in the FDS study, an entry model for group A plastic protection includes modeling a storage area of 110 feet by 110 feet ceiling heights in a range of 20 feet to 40 feet. feet. The product was modeled as a double-row shelf storage product measuring 33 feet long by 7-1 / 2 feet wide. The product was modeled at various heights including between 25 feet to 40 feet.

[0121] In modeling step 84 the sprinkler system is modeled to include sprinkler characteristics such as sprinkler type, sprinkler location and spacing, total number of sprinklers, and fixing distance in the ceiling. The total physical size of the computational domain is preferably dictated by the anticipated number of sprayer operations prior to fluid release. further, the simulated ceiling number and associated sprinklers is preferably such that it leaves a continuous ring of inactive sprinklers around the periphery of the simulated roof. Generally the outer walls can be excluded from the simulation-such that the result applies to a limited volume, however if the geometry under study is limited to a comparatively small volume, then the walls should preferably be included. The thermal properties of the sprinklers are also preferably included such as, for example, functional response time index (RTI) and activation temperature. More preferably, the RTI for the thermal element of the patterned sprinkler is known prior to sprinkler installation. Additional sprinkler features can be defined by generating the model including details regarding the structure of the water spray and the sprinkler flow rate. Another go referring to the study FDS, for example, a sprinkler system? 83 can be modeled with a grid twelve x twelve of Central Sprinkier ELO-231 sprinkler spacing at 10 feet x 10 feet for a total of 144 spacers. Modeled sprinklers with an activation temperature of 286 ° F with an RTI of 300 (feet X seconds) / 2. The sprinkler rack in the FDS study was arranged at two different heights from the ceiling: 10 inches and 4 inches.

[0122] A third aspect 86 for the development of predictive heat release and sprinkler activation profiles preferably provides simulation of a fire arranged in the storage arrangement of the product over a period of time. Specifically, the model may include fuel characteristics to describe the ignition and fire behavior of the combustible materials to be modeled. Generally, to describe the behavior of the fuel, an accurate description of heat transfer within the fuel is required.

[0123] The simulated fuel masses can be treated as thermal thickness, ie a temperature burner is established through the mass of the product, or thermal thin, ie uniform temperature which is stable through the mass of the product. product. For example, in the case of cardboard boxes, typically from warehouses; the walls of the carton can be considered to have a uniform temperature through its thermally thin cross section. Fuel parameters, characterization of thin thermal, solid, class A fuels such as standard Class II, Class III and Group A plastics, preferably Includes: (i) heat increase per unit area; (ii) specific heat; (iii) density; (iv) thicknesses (v) ignition temperature. The parameter of heat release per unit area allows specifying the details of the internal structure of the fuel to be ignored and the total volume of the fuel to be treated as a homogeneous mass with a known energy output based on the percentage of surface area of the fuel predicted to be burned. Specific heat is defined as the amount of heat required to increase the temperature of a unit mass of the fuel by one unit of temperature. The density is the mass per unit volume of the fuel, and the thickness is the thickness of the surface of the product. The ignition temperature is defined as the temperature at which the surface begins to burn in the presence of an ignition source.

[0124] For fuels that can not be treated as thermally thin, such as a solid fuel mallet, additional or alternative parameters may be required. Additional or alternative parameters may include thermal conductivity which can measure the ability of the material to conduct heat. Other parameters may be required depending on the specific fuel that is being characterized. For example, fluid fuels need to be treated in a very different way than solid fuels, and as a result of the parameters are different. Other parameters that may be specified by certain fuels or fuel configurations include: (i) emissivity, which is the ratio of the radiation emitted by a surface to the radiation emitted by a blackbody at the same temperature (ii) Heat of vaporization which is defined as the amount of heat required to convert a mass unit of a liquid at its boiling point to steam without increasing the temperature. Any of the parameters mentioned above may not be fixed values but may vary depending on time or other external influence such as heat or temperature. For these cases, the fuel parameter can be described in a manner compatible with the known variation of the property, such as a tabular format or by making it coincide with a linear mathematical function.

[0125] Generally, each pallet of articles can be treated as a homogeneous fuel package, with the details of the pallet and physical shelf omitted. Exemplary combustion parameters, based on the item classes, are summarized in the combustion parameter table below.

Burning Parameter Table

[0126] From the fire simulation, the FDS software or other computer code resolves for the release of heat and resulting heat effects including one or more sprinkler activations for each unit of time as provided in the steps 88.90. The sprinkler activation can be simultaneous or sequential to I. It is to be further understood that heat release solutions define a level of fire growth through stored items. It is further understood that modeled sprinklers are thermally activated in response to the heat release profile. Therefore, for a given fire growth there is a corresponding number of sprinklers that are thermally activated or open. Again, the simulation carried out preferably provides that water is not released upon activation of the sprinklers. Modeling the sprinklers without the discharge of water ensures that the discharge profile of the canopy and therefore the growth of the fire is not altered by the introduction of water. The heat release and activation of sprinklers are preferably plotted as predictive heat release based on time and sprinkler activation profiles 400 in steps 88 and 90 as seen, for example, in Figure 4. Alternatively or in addition to the heat release and sprinkler activation profile, a schematic diagram of sprinkler activation can be generated by showing activated sprinkler locations relative to the storage arrangement and ignition point activation time and activation heat release time.

[0127] The predictive profiles 400 of Figure 4 provides illustrative examples of predictive heat release profiles 402, and predictive sprinkler activation profiles 404. specifically, predictive heat release profiles 402 show the amount of anticipated heat release in the storage area 70 over time, measured in (KW), from the article stored in a modeled fire scenario. The heat release profile provides a characterization of a burned fire growth through the product and can be measured in other energy units such as, for example, In-Glas thermal units (BTU's). The fire model preferably characterizes a fire growth through the combustion of the product 50 in the storage area 70 to be resolved by the change in anticipated or calculated heat release time. The predictive sprinkler activation profile 404 is shown to preferably include a defined definition or design point or a specified maximum sprinkler operation area 27 to be used. A specified maximum sprinkler operation area 27 may, for example, be specified to be approximately defined by 200 square feet, which is equivalent to twenty (20) sprinkler activations based on a sprinkler spacing of ten by ten feet. The specification of the maximum sprinkler operation area 27 is described in greater detail below. Sprinkler activation profiles 404 show the period of maximum delay of Almax fluid release. The time zero, t0, is preferably defined by the moment of initiation of sprinkler activation and preferably, the period of maximum delay of fluid release Almax- is measured from time to the time at which 80% of the The specified maximum sprinkler operation area 27 is activated, as shown in Figure 4. In this example, 80% of the maximum sprinkler operation area 27 occurs at the point of activation of 16 sprinklers. The measurement from the point to, the maximum delay period of Almax fluid release is approximately 12 seconds. The configuration of the maximum delay period of fluid release to the point of 80% of the maximum operating area of sprinklers is provided for a regulation time to allow the introduction of water into the system 10 and to build the pressure of the discharge system from the maximum operation area of sprinklers 27, ie compression. Alternatively, the maximum delay period for Almax fluid liberation. can be defined at the moment of 100% of the thermal activation of the maximum specified operating area of sprinklers 27.

[0128] Predictive Sprinkler Activation 402 also defines the point at which a minimum sprinkler operation area ALin preferably, the minimum sprinkler operation area 28 is defined by a critical number and sprinkler activations for system 10. the critical number of. Sprinkler activation is preferably defined by an initial minimum sprinkler operation that smothers the fire with a discharge of water or liquid so that the fire continues to rise in response such that an additional number of sprinklers is activated alternately to form an area of sprinkler operation complete 26 for an enveloping and flooded configuration. The introduction of water into the storage area prior to the formation of the critical number of sprinklers may perhaps prevent the growth of fire preventing the thermal activation of all the critical sprinklers in the area of minimum operation of sprinklers. The critical sprinkler activation number is preferably dependent on the height of the sprinkler system 10. For example, when the height of the sprinkler system is less than 30 feet, the critical number of sprinkler operation is approximately two to four (2- 4) sprinklers. In storage areas where the sprinkler system is installed at a height of thirty feet or more, the critical number of sprinkler operation is approximately four sprinklers. The measurement of the first sprinkler activation predicted at zero time t0, the predicted sprinkler trigger time, ie two to four sprinkler activations preferably define the minimum mandatory retarding period of Atmin fluid release. In the example of Figure 4 the minimum sprinkler operation area is defined by the activation of four sprinklers which is shown to be predi-cho to occur following a delay period of Atmin fluid release of approximately two to three seconds.

[0129] As previously described above, the periods of maximum and minimum delay of fluid release for a given system can be selected from the range of acceptable delay periods of fluid release. More specifically, the selection of a maximum delay period and a minimum of fluid release to be incorporated into a physical system 10 may be such that the minimum and maximum delay periods of fluid release fall within the range of Atmin and Atmax. determined from predictive sprinkler activation profiles. Consequently, in such a system, the maximum water delay is less than Atma under the predictive sprinkler activation profile. It should result in a maximum sprinkler operating area less than the maximum acceptable operating area of the sprinkler under the activation profile of the sprinkler. predictive sprayer In addition, the minimum delay period for fluid release is greater than Atmax under the predictive sprinkler profile, should result in a minimum sprinkler operation area greater than the minimum acceptable operating area of sprinklers under the activation profile of predictive sprinkler.

Test to verify the operation of the system based on the Period of mandatory delay of fluid release

[0130] The inventors have conducted fire tests to verify that sprinkler systems configured with a mandatory delay of fluid release result in the formation of a sprinkler operation area 26 to successively direct the fire test. to an enveloping and drowning configuration. These tests were conducted for various products, storage configurations and storage heights. In addition the tests were conducted for sprinkler systems installed under roofs at a range of ceiling heights.

[0131] Again referring to Figures 2 A, 2 B and 2 C, an exemplified test plant of a stored product and dry sprinkler system can be constructed as shown schematically. Simultaneously a storage area 70 as previously described, the test plant includes a dry pipe sprinkler system 10 installed as a dry pipe sprinkler system for roof only, supported from a ceiling at a height of H1. the system 10 is preferably constructed with a network of sprinkler heads 12 designed in a grid spacing such as to provide a specified nominal discharge density D at a nominal discharge pressure P. the individual sprinklers 20 preferably include a localized deflector from the ceiling at a distance S. located in the exemplified plant is an array of stored products 50 of a type C which may include any of the products of NFPA-13 defined as class I, II, or III, or alternatively plastics, elastomers and rubbers of group A, group B, or group C. The arrangement 50 can be stored at a storage height H2 to define an open area of roof L. Preferably, the stored arrangement 50 defines a storage arrangement of shelves multifila; more preferably a double row storage array but other storage configurations are possible. Also included is at least one target array 52 thereof and another stored product spaced approximately or near array 50 at a corridor distance W. As more specifically noted in FIG. 2 C, stored buffer 50 is stored below the sprinkler system 10 preferably under four sprinklers twenty in a remote configuration.

[0132] The predictive heat release and sprinkler activation profiles can be generated for the test plant to identify the periods of maximum and minimum delay of fluid release in the range between the system 10 and the given storage occupancy and configurations of product storage. A single fluid release delay period ?? can be selected to test and evaluate if the fluid release delay of the selected test is incorporated into the system 10 by generating at least one area of operation of sprinklers 26 on the effective fire test to attack and quench the fire test in an enveloping and drowning configuration.

[0133] The fire test can be initiated by an ignition in the stored arrangement 50 and allow it to run for a test period T, the arrangement 50 burns at thermal activation from one to more sprinklers 12. The release of fluid to either the activated sprayers are delayed to the selected fluid release delay period At to allow the fire to burn and thermally activate a number of sprayers. If the result in the successful wrapping and firefighting result set of sprinklers activated at the end of the release delay period, f.Juido_ defines the operational area 26 of sprinklers. At the end of the test period T, the number of activated sprinklers forming the operational area of sprinklers 26 can be counted and compared to the number of sprinklers predicted to be activated at a time A \ from the predicted sprinkler activation profile. Below is a discussion of the eight-stage test used to illustrate the effect of the fluid interlayer delay to effectively form an operational area 26 of sprinklers to control a fire with an enveloping and waterlogged configuration. Details of the tests, their development and results are provided in the test report U.L. typed evaluation of the operation of! fire of seo tube spray systems for protection of Class II, II and Group A plastic items using a K-16.8 sprayer; Techniocal Report Underwriters Laboratories Inc. Project 06NK05814, EX4991 for Tyco Fire & Building Products 06-02-2006, "which is incorporated herein in its entirety as a reference.

EXAMPLE 1

[0134] A sprinkler system 10 for the protection of stored items of Class 2 was constructed as a test and modeling plant to generate predictive profiles of heat release and sprinkler activation. The room on the test floor is 120 feet X 120 feet and 54 feet high. The test floor includes an adjustable height ceiling of 100 feet X, 1.00 feet that allows the ceiling height of the plant to be variably established. The system parameters include Class II items in multiple row shelving, storage arrangements at a height of about 34 feet located in a storage area that has a ceiling height of about 40 feet. The sprinkler system 10 includes 100 storage sprinklers 20 of specific application, straight and of a K-factor equal to 16.8, having a nominal RTI of 190 (feet-seconds) v * and a thermal measurement of 286 ° F in 10 feet X 10 foot. The sprinkler system 10 was located about 7 inches below the ceiling and supplemented with a crimped pipe system. The sprinkler system 10 was configured to provide a fluid delivery having a discharge density of about 0.8 gpm / ft2 at a nominal discharge pressure of about 22 psi.

[0135] The test plant was modeled to develop the predictive heat release and sprinkler activation profile as seen in FIG.5. From predictive profiles, 80% of operational area 26 total about 16 sprinklers was predicted to form following a delay period of around 40 seconds. A period The minimum fluid delivery delay of about four seconds was identified as the time lapse at the predicted thermal activation of the minimum sprinkler operational area fo-rmed by 4 critical sprinkler heads at the given ceiling height of H1 of 40 feet. The first sprinkler activation was predicted to occur around 2 minutes and fourteen seconds after ignition. A 30 second fluid release delay period was selected from the range between the maximum and minimum fluid release delay period for testing.

[0136] In the test plant the main article arrangement 50 and its geometric center was stored under 4 sprinklers in an inclined configuration. More specifically, the main arrangement 54 of Class II items was stored on industrial shelves using steel in the construction. The 32-foot-long X 3-foot-wide shelf was arranged to provide a multiple-row master with 4 compartments of 8 feet and seven thirds in 4 rows. The upper crossbars were positioned on the shelves at one third of the vertical height of 5 foot increments above the floor. A simple target array 52 was spaced at a distance of 8 feet from the main array. The objective array 52 consists of industrial construction steel in a single row rack. The 32-foot-long X 3-foot-wide shelving system was arranged to provide a main shelf with three 8-foot compartments. The top rolls of the objective array shelf 52 were positioned on the floor and in increments of 5 feet above the floor. The compartments of arrangements and motives and principal 14,16 were loaded to provide a nominal 6-inch length and transverse tube space through the arrangement. The main and objective arrangement was approximately 3 feet high and consists of 7 vertical compartments. The Class II article was constructed from triple-walled double-wall corrugated cardboard with five-sided steel reinforcements inserted for stability. The exterior measurements of the carton were a nominal 42 inches wide X 42 inches long X 42 inches tall at a nominal nominal 42 inches wide X 42 inches long X 5 inches. Triple-walled double-sided cardboard weighs about 84 pounds and each pallet weighs approximately 52 pounds. The storage height was 34 feet 2 inches nominally 34 feet and the movable roof was fixed at 40 feet.

[0137] A real fire test was started twenty-one inches off center from the center of the main array 54 and the time trial was run for a period of time T of thirty minutes (30 min.). The source of cotton ignition was two halves of cotton cellulose fire starter standards. Fire initiators were constructed with a three-inch by three-inch (3 in x 3 in) cellulose bunch soaked with 4 oz. of gasoline and rolled in a polyethylene bag. Following the thermal activation of the first sprayer in system 10, the release of fluid and discharge was delayed by a period of -thirty-seconds (30 s.) Per average. of a solenoid valve located after the main water control valve. Table 1 below provides a summary table of both the model and the test parameters. In addition, Table 1 provides the predicted operational area of sprinklers and the discharge delay period near the results measured from the test.

Table 1

[0138] The test result verifies that a specified thirty second fluid discharge can modify a fire growth to activate a set of sprinklers and form an operational area of sprinklers 26 to dominate a fire in enclosing and flooded configuration. More specifically, the sprinkler activation profile identifies a fire result in about 10 sprinkler activations as shown in Figure 5, immediately following the thirty seconds of the fluid delivery delay period. In the real fire tests, the activation of ten (10) sprinklers was carried out following the thirty seconds (30 seconds) of the fluid delivery delay period, as predicted. Four additional sprinklers were activated in the next ten seconds (10 seconds), at which point the sprinkler system achieved the discharge pressure of 22 psi, to significantly impact the growth of the fire. Congruently, a total of fourteen sprinklers were activated to form an operational sprinkler area 26, in the 40 seconds that followed the first sprinkler activation. The model predicted over the same period of forty, according to two total activation of nineteen sprinklers

[0139] The resulting test shows that a correctly predicted fluid delivery delay result results in the formation of a real operational area 26 of sprinklers made of fourteen activated sprinklers, which they effectively control as predicted, as evidenced by the fact of that the last thermal activation of a sprinkler occurs in just up to 3 minutes from the moment of ignition and no additional sprinkler activations occur in the next 26 minutes of the test period. Additional performance characteristics of the system 10 of dry sprinklers were observed such as for example, the extent of damage to the items or the behavior of the fire in relation to storage. From the summary of the test in Table 1, it was observed that fire and damage remain limited to the main arrangement 50 of the articles.

[0140] Shown in Figure 5A, is a graph of sprinkler activation indicating the location of each activated sprinkler in relation to, an ignition location. The graph provides an indicator of the number of sprinklers sautéed, if any. More specifically, the graph shows the concentric sprinkler activation rings close to the ignition location, and the location of non-activating sprinklers within one or -. , · More dandelions to indicate a sprinkler jump. According to the graph of figure 5A corresponding to table 1 there were no jumps.

EXAMPLE 2

[0141] In a second fire test a sprinkler system 10 for the protection of stored items of class 3 was modeled and tested in the test room room. The system parameters include items of class III in a double-row warehouse arrangement stored at a height of about thirty feet (30 feet) located in a storage area having a ceiling height of about thirty-five feet (35 feet). The dry sprinkler system 10 includes 100 straight application specific storage sprinklers of K = 16.8 that have a nominal RTI of 190 (second feet) ½ and a thermal rating of 286 ° F spaced at ten feet by ten feet (10 feet) x 10 feet). The system 10 was modeled as normalized to develop a predicted heat release and sprinkler activation profile as seen in figure 6. From the prediction profiles, 8% of the maximum operational area of the sprinkler, total about sixteen (16) Sprinklers were predicted to occur following a maximum fluid delivery delay period of about thirty five seconds (35 seconds). A period of minimum delay of fluid delivery of about five seconds (5 seconds) was identified as the time lapse of predicted thermal activation of the critical players for the height H1 of the given roof of thirty five feet (35 feet) the first sprinkler activation was predicted to occur in about one minute and 55 seconds (1:55) after ignition. A thirty-second (33 second-second) fluid delivery delay period was selected from the range between the maximum and minimum delay period of fluid delivery to be tested. [0142] The sprinkler system 10 was configured to provide a fluid delivery having a discharge density of about 0.8 gpm / ft2 at a nominal discharge pressure of about 22 psi. The test plant was modeled to develop the predictive heat release and the spray activation profile as seen in FIG.6. From the predictive profiles, 80% of the operational area 27 totalized around 16 sprinklers was predicted to form following a delay period of around 35 seconds. A minimum fluid delivery delay period of about five seconds was identified as the time lapse at the predicted thermal activation of the minimum sprinkler operational area 28 formed by 4 critical sprinklers par at the given ceiling height H1 of 35 feet. The first sprinkler activation was predicted to occur about 1 minute 55 seconds after ignition. A 33 second fluid release delay period was selected from the range between the maximum and minimum fluid release delay period for testing.

[0143] In the test plant the main article arrangement 50 and its geometric center was stored under 4 sprinklers in an inclined configuration. More specifically, the main arrangement 54 of Class III items was stored on industrial shelves using steel in construction. The 32-foot-long X 3-foot-wide shelf was arranged to provide a multiple-row master with 4 compartments of 8 feet and seven thirds in 4 rows. Top rolls were positioned on the shelves at one third of the vertical height of 5 foot increments above the floor. Two objective arrays 52 were each spaced at a distance of eight feet (8 feet) around the main array. The objective array 52 consists of industrial construction steel in a single row rack. Each shelf system 32 feet long X 3 feet wide was arranged to provide a main rack with three 8-foot compartments. The upper trays of the shelves of the target array 52 were positioned on the floor and in increments of 5 feet above the floor. The compartments of the objective and principal arrangements 14,16 were loaded to provide a nominal 6-inch length and transverse tube space through the array. The main and objective arrangement was approximately 29 feet high and consists of 6 vertical compartments. The Class III article was constructed from paper cups (eight-ounce-size voids) compartmented into simple walls of corrugated cardboard boxes measuring 21 inches by twenty one inches. Each box containing 125 glasses, with 5 layers of 25 glasses each, the com-parting was carried out with corrugated sheets of simple wall to separate the five rows and five columns of each layer. Eight boxes were fed on a two-way hardwood platform, approximately 42 inches by 42 inches by five inches. The pallet weighs approximately 119 pounds of which about 20% is paper cups, 43% is wood and 37% is corrugated cardboard. The total storage height was 30 feet and the movable roof was set at thirty-five feet.

[0144] A real fire test was started twenty one inches off center from the center of the main array 114 and the time trial was run for a period of time T of thirty minutes (30 min.) - The ignition source of Cotton was two-thirds of cotton cellulose fire starter standards. The fire starters were constructed with a three-inch by three-inch (3 in x 3 in) cellulose bunch soaked with 4 oz. Of gasoline and wound into a polyethylene bag. Following the thermal activation of the first sprinkler in system 10, the release of fluid and discharge was delayed for a period of thirty-three seconds (33 s) by means of a solenoid valve located after the main control valve. of water. Table 2 below provides a summary table of both the model and the Pos parameters of the test. In addition, lane 2 provides the predicted operational area 26, and selects the selected fluid discharge delay period on the side of the measured test results.

Table 2

[0145] Predictive profiles identify a fire growth corresponding to a prediction of about 14 sprinkler activations following a 33 second fluid delivery delay. The actual results of the fire test result in 16 sprinkler activations that immediately follow the 33 seconds of the fluid delivery delay period. No additional sprayer was activated in the subsequent two seconds (2 sec.) In which the sprinkler system achieves the 22 psi de-load pressure to significantly impact fire growth. Congruently a total of sixteen sprinklers were activated to form a treatment area 26, thirty-five seconds (35 seconds) following the first activation of sprinklers. The model predicts over the same period of 35 seconds, a total sprinkler activation also of around 16 seconds as indicated in figure 6.

[0146] Employing a fluid delivery delay period in the system 10 resulted in the formation of an operational area 26, of real sprinklers, made of sixteen (16) activated sprinklers, which effectively controls the fire as predicted and Evidence for the fact that the last thermal activation of a sprinkler occurs in just the three minutes that elapses from the moment of ignition and no additional sprinkler activation occurs during the twenty-seven minutes of the test period. Additional performance characteristics of the dry sprinkler system 10 were observed in such a way that, for example, the extent of the damage to the articles or the behavior of the fire relative to the storage. For the summary of the test in Table 2, it was observed that the fire and the remaining damage limited to the main arrangement 54 of the articles.

[0147] Shown in Figure 6A is the graph indicating the location of each activated sprinkler in relation to the ignition location. The graph shows two concentric rings of sprinkler activation emanating radially from the ignition location. No sprinklers were observed.

EXAMPLE 3

[0148] In a third fire test, a sprinkler system 10 for the protection of stored items of Class III was modeled and tested in the test room of the plant. The. Parameters of the system includes items of class three in a storage arrangement on a double-row shelf, at a height of about forty feet (40 feet) located in a storage area, which has a ceiling height of about forty-three feet (43 feet). The dry sprinkler system 10 includes a hundred sprinklers of specific application in storage, straight with a K-factor of 16.8 that has a nominal RTI of 190 (foot-second) ½ and a thermal evaluation of 286 ° F with a spacing ten feet by ten feet (10 feet X 10 feet). The sprinkler system was located about seven inches (7 inches) below the roof.

[0149] The test plant was modeled to develop the predictive heat release and sprinkler activation profile as seen in FIG.7. From the predictive profiles, 80% of the operational area 27 totalized around 16 sprinklers was predicted to form following a delay period of around 39 seconds. A minimum fluid delivery delay period of about twenty-three seconds was identified as the time lapse at the predicted thermal activation of the minimum sprinkler operational area 4 formed by 4 critical sprinklers for the given ceiling height H1 of 43 feet. The first sprinkler activation was predicted to occur about 1 minute 55 seconds after the ignition. A delay period of fluid release of 21 seconds was selected from the range between the release delay period of. maximum and minimum fluid for testing.

[0150] In the test plant the main article arrangement 50 and its geometric center was stored under 4 sprinklers in an inclined configuration. More specifically, the main arrangement 54 of Class III items was stored on industrial shelves using steel in construction. The 32-foot-long X 3-foot wide shelf was arranged to provide a multiple-row main shelf with 4 8-foot compartments. The upper crossbars were positioned on the shelves at one third of the vertical height of 5 feet increments above the roof. A simple target array 52 was spaced at a distance of 8 feet from the main array. Each objective array 52 consists of industrial construction steel in a single row rack. The 32-foot-long, 3-foot-wide shelving system was arranged to provide a three-compartment, eight-foot main shelf. The top rails of the objective array shelf 52 were positioned on the floor and in increments of 5 feet above the floor. The compartments of the objective and main arrangements 14, 16 were loaded to provide a nominal 6-inch length and transverse tube space through the array. The main and objective arrangement was approximately 38 feet high and consisted of 8 vertical compartments. The Class III article was constructed from paper cups (8-ounce-size voids) compartmented into single wall, corrugated cardboard box measuring 21 inches X 21 inches X 21 inches. Each box containing 125 cups, in five layers of 25 cups, the compartmentalization was achieved with simple walls of corrugated cardboard sheets to separate the five layers and intertrabar verilea I mind the simple wall corrugated cardboard divisions to separate the five rows and five columns of each layer. 8 boxes were fed on a two-way hardwood deck, approximately 42 inches X 42 inches X 5 inches. The weight of the platform was approximately 129 pounds, of which about 20% are paper cups, 43% are wood and 37% are corrugated cardboard. The total storage height was 39 feet an inch (nominally 40 feet), and the movable roof was fixed at 43 feet.

[0151] A real fire test was started twenty-one inches off center from the center of the main array 114 and time-tested was run for a period of time T of thirty minutes (30 min.). The source of cotton ignition was two halves of cotton cellulose fire starter standards. The fire starters were constructed with a cellulose bunch of three inches by three inches (3 in x 3 in) long soaked with 4 oz. of gasoline and rolled in a polyethylene bag. Following the thermal activation of the first sprayer in system 10, the release of fluid and discharge was delayed by a period of twenty-one seconds. (2.1. "S.) By means of a valve. of solenoid located after the main water control valve. Table 3 below provides a summary table of both the model and the test parameters. In addition Table 3 provides the predicted operational area 26, sprinkler and discharge delay period near the results measured from the test.

Table 3

[0152] The predictive profiles identify a fire growth resulting in about two to three activations of pre-said sprinklers following a fluid delivery delay of 21 seconds. No additional sprinklers were activated in the next two seconds (2 seconds) at the point at which the sprinkler system reaches the 22 psi discharge pressure to significantly impact fire growth. Congruently a total of twenty sprinklers were activated to form a treatment area 26, thirty seconds (30 seconds) following the first activation of sprinklers. The model predicts over the same period of 30 seconds, a total activation also of around 6 sprinklers as indicated in figure 7.

[0153] Shown in Figure 7A is the activation graph indicating the location of each activated sprinkler in relation to the location of the ignition. The predictive model shows two concentric rings of radially activated sprinklers emanating from the ignition location. A single sprinkler was seen jumping in the first ring.

EXAMPLE 4

[0154] In a fourth fire test, a sprinkler system 10 for the protection of stored items of Class III was modeled and tested. The system parameters include items of class three in a storage arrangement in a double-row bookshelf, at a height of about forty feet (40 feet) located in a storage area that has a ceiling height of about forty and five feet (45.25 feet). The dry sprinkler system 10 includes a sprinkler of specific application in storage, straight with a K-factor of 16.8 that has a nominal RTI of 190 (foot-second) ½ and a thermal evaluation of 286 ° F with a spacing ten feet by ten feet (10 feet X 10 feet). The sprinkler system was located about seven inches (7 inches) below the roof.

[0155] The test plant was modeled to develop a predictive warming of release and activation of the sprinkler profile as seen in Figure 8. From the predictive profiles, eighty percent of the maximum operational area of sprinklers 27 having a total of about sixteen (16) sprinklers was pre-formed following a maximum fluid release delay period of approximately twenty-eight (28 sec.). A minimum delay of the fluid discharge period of approximately ten seconds (10 seconds). sec.) was identified as the time lapse for the thermal activation of the four critical sprinklers for the given roof height H1 forty feet (45 ft.). Activation of the first sprayer was predicted to occur approximately two minutes (2:00) after ignition. A delay period of fluid discharging of approximately sixteen seconds (16 s) was tested from the range of the maximum and minimum delay period of fluid discharge for the test.

[0156] In the test plant, the main material arrangement 50 and its geometric center was stored under four sprinklers in an inclined configuration. More specifically, the main array 54 of Class III material was stored on steel erected industrial shelves and a bar construction. The 32 ft. Long by 3 ft. Broad members of the shelf were arranged to provide a double-row main shelf with four compartments of 8 ft. The upper crossbars were positioned on the shelves in a vertical row at a height of five feet, increasing above the ground. Two objective arrays 52 were each spaced at a distance of eight feet (8 ft.) Above the main arc. These ordered objects 52 consisted of a single-row straight shelf using steel and a steel construction beam. The shelving system 32 feet long by 3 feet wide was arranged to provide a single-row lens shelf with three eight-foot compartments. The top rails of the shelving target array 52 were positioned on the floor and in increments of 5 feet above the ground. The compartments of the objective and main arrangements 14, 16 were loaded to provide a longitudinal and transverse six-inch chimney space through the arrangement. The standard class III article was constructed from paper cups (empty of 8 ounces in size) compartmented in single wall, corrugated cardboard box measuring 21 inches X 21 inches X 21 inches. Each box containing 125 cups, in five layers of 25 cups, the compartmentalization was achieved with simple walls of corrugated cardboard sheets to separate the five layers and vertically intertrabar the divisions of single-wall corrugated cardboard to separate the five rows and five columns of each cap. 8 boxes were fed on a two-way hardwood deck, approximately 42 inches X 42 inches X 5 inches. The weight of the platform was approximately 129 pounds, of which about 20% are paper cups, 43% are wood and 37% are corrugated cardboard. The total storage height was 39 feet an inch (nominally 40 feet), and the movable roof was fixed at 45.25 feet.

A real fire test was started twenty-one inches off center from the center of the main array 114 and the time trial was run for a period of time T of thirty minutes (30 min.). The source of cotton ignition was two halves of cotton cellulose fire starter standards. The fire starters were constructed with a cellulose bunch of three inches by three inches (3 in x 3 in) long soaked with 4 oz. Gasoline and rolled up in a polyethylene bag. Following thermal activation of the first sprinkler in system 10, fluid release and discharge was delayed for a period of sixteen seconds (16 s) by means of a solenoid valve located after the main water control valve. Table 4 below provides a summary table of both the parameters of the model and the test. In addition, Table 4 provides the operational area of the predicted sprinklers 26 and the delivery delay period of the selected fluid, close to the results measured from the test.

Table 4

[0158] Predictive profiles identify a fire growth corresponding to about thirteen activations of predictive sprinklers following 16 seconds of fluid delivery delay. However, for the purpose of analyzing the predictive model for this test and the impact of the sixteen seconds delay in fluid delivery controlling the fire, the relevant period for the analysis is the time from the activation of the first sprayer to the moment in which the full operating pressure is achieved. For this relevant period the period predicts eight sprinkler activations. According to the Four sprinkler tests were activated from the moment of activation of the first sprinkler to the moment when the water was delivered at the operating pressure of 30 psi. Additional activations of sprinklers occurred following the operating pressure achieved from the system. A total of nineteen sprinklers were operated at system pressure three minutes and thirty-seven seconds (3:37) after the first activation of a sprinkler to significantly impact fire growth. Congruently, a total of nineteen sprinklers (19) were activated to form an operational area 26, three minutes and thirty-seven seconds (3:37) after the activation of the first sprinkler.

[0159] Employing a delay period in the delivery of the fluid in the system 10 results in the formation of an operational area of real sprinkler, made of nineteen activated sprinklers which effectively control the fire. Additional performance characteristics of sprinkler system 10 such as, for example, the extent of damage to the item or the relative behavior of the fire to the warehouse. For the test summarized in Table 4, it was observed that the fire and the damage left limited to the main series of matter 54; nevertheless it was observed that the damage did not travel to the edges of the settlement.

EXAMPLE 5

[0160] In the fifth fire test, a system of sprinklers 10 for the protection of stored materials Group A Plastics was modeled and tested in the test plant. System parameters included items from Group A on a double-row array shelf stored at a height of about twenty feet (20 ft.) Located in a storage area having a ceiling height about thirty feet (30 ft.). ). The dry sprinkler system 10 included one hundred straight storage sprinklers with a k-factor of 16.8 in a curved pipe system having a nominal RTJ of 190 (ft-sec.) 1/2 in a thermal classification. of 286 ° F in a space of ten feet by ten feet (10 ft x 10 ft). The sprinkler system was located about seven inches (7 inches.) Under the roof. The sprinkler system 10 was configured to provide a fluid discharge having a discharge density of about 0.8 gpm / ft2 at a nominal discharge pressure of approximately 22 psi.

[0161] The test plant was modeled and normalized to develop a predictive heat release and activation of the sprinkler profile as seen in Figure 9. From the predictive profiles, eighty percent of the maximum operational area of sprinklers 27 having a total of about sixteen (16) sprinklers was predichp to form following a period of. maximum fluid release delay of approximately thirty-five seconds (35 s) A minimum delay of the fluid discharge period of approximately ten seconds (10 s) was identified as the time lapse for thermal activation of the four critical sprinklers for the height of the given ceiling H1 thirty feet (30 ft.). Activation of the first sprayer was predicted to occur at about one minute fifty-five seconds (1:55 - 1:56) after ignition. A period of fluid discharge delay of approximately twenty-nine seconds (29 s) was selected from the range of the maximum and minimum delay period of fluid discharge for the test.

[0162] In the test plant, the main material arrangement 50 and its geometric center was stored under four sprinklers in an inclined configuration. More specifically, the main array 54 of Group A material was built under industrial shelves using steel for its stored construction. Shelf members 32 feet long by 3 feet wide were arranged to provide a double-row main rack with four 8-foot compartments. The upper crossbars were positioned on the shelves in a vertical row at a height of five feet, increasing above the ground. Two objective arrays 52 were each spaced at a distance of eight feet (8 ft.) Around the main array. Each objective array 52 consisted of single row shelves using .d or .ac, but in its construction. The rack system 32 feet long by 3 feet wide was arranged to provide a single-row lens shelf with three eight-foot compartments. The top crosspieces of the target array 52 ledge were positioned on the floor and in increments of 5 feet above the ground. The compartments of the objective and principal arrangements 14,16 were charged to Provide a nominal 6-inch length and cross-tube space through the array. The main and objective arrangement was approximately 19 feet high and consists of 8 vertical compartments. The group A plastic article was constructed from rigid crystalline polystyrene cups (empty 16 oz. In size) packed in single-wall corrugated cardboard boxes. The vessels are organized into five layers of twenty-five glasses per layer for a total of one hundred twenty-five glasses per box. The compartmentation was carried out with simple wall corrugated cardboard boxes with corrugated sheets of simple wall to separate the five layers and intertrabar single-wall corrugated dividers to separate the five rows and five columns of each layer. Eight 2 x 2 x 2 cube boxes were fed on a two-way hardwood platform, approximately 42 inches by 42 inches by five inches. The platform weighs approximately 165 pounds of which about 40% is plastic, 31% is wood and 29% is corrugated cardboard. The total storage height was 20 feet and the movable roof was set at thirty p is ...., -

[0163] A real fire test was started twenty-one inches off center from the center of the main array 114 and the time trial was run for a period of time T of thirty minutes (30 min.). The source of cotton ignition was two halves of cotton cellulose fire starter standards. Fire initiators were constructed with a three-inch by three-inch (3 in x 3 in) cellulose bunch soaked with 4 oz. Gasoline and rolled in a poly-filen bag. Following the thermal activation of the first sprayer in system -10, fluid release and discharge was delayed for a period of twenty-nine seconds (29 seconds) by means of a solenoid valve located after the main water control valve. In addition table 5 provides the operational area of the sprinklers predicted and the delivery delay period of the selected fluid, close to the results measured from the test.

Table 5

[0164] According to the results of the test, the sprinkler system was within five percent of the operating pressure (22 psi) thirty seconds, following the first activation of the sprinkler, and the system pressure was achieved within three minutes after the ignition. The discharge pressure was obtained by the system such that the sprinkler sixteen equals around 0.79 gpm / ft2 substantially corresponding to the specified design criteria. Thirteen sprayer activations occur over the thirty second period following activation of the first sprayer. The predictive profiles identify a fire growth resulting in about twelve to thirteen sprinkler activations following a delay in the discharge of the twenty-nine second fluid. A total of fifteen sprinklers were operated thirty-nine seconds after the activation of the first sprinkler to significantly impact the growth of the fire. Congruently a total of fifteen sprinklers were activated to form an operational area 26 of sprinklers, thirty-nine seconds after the first sprinkler activation. Thus, less than 20% of the total available sprinklers were activated. The fifteen activated sprinklers were within a range of one hundred and ten to two hundred and fifty seconds after initial ignition. [0165] Employing a delay period of delivery of the fluid in the system 10 resulted in the formation of an operational area 26, made by 15 activated sprinklers that effectively control the fire. Additional performance characteristics of the dry sprinkler system 10 were observed in such a way that, for example, the extent of the damage to the articles or the behavior of the fire relative to the storage. For the summary of the test in Table 5, it was observed that the fire and the remaining damage limited to the main arrangement 54 of the objective arrangements 56 however the u ^ ego, did not transfer the extremities of the test arrangement.

[0166] Shown in Figure 9A is the graph of the activated sprinklers indicating the location of each sprinkler activated in relation to the location of the ignition. The graph shows two concentric rings of sprinkler activation radially emanating from the ignition location. No skipped sprinkler was observed. EXEMPL06 [0167] In the sixth fire test, a sprinkler system 10 for the protection of class II stored materials was modeled and tested in the test plant. System parameters included class II materials in a double-row array shelf stored at a height of about thirty-four feet (34 ft.) Located in a storage area having a ceiling height about forty feet (40 ft. .). The dry sprinkler system 10 included one hundred specific straight application storage sprinklers with a k-factor of 16.8 in a curved pipe system having a nominal RTI of 190 (ft-sec.) 1/2 in a thermal rating of 286 ° F. in a space of ten feet by ten feet (10 ft x 10 ft). The sprinkler system was located about seven inches (7 inches) below the roof. The sprinkler system 10 was configured to provide a fluid discharge having a discharge density of about 0.8 gpm / ft2 at a nominal discharge pressure of approximately 22 psi.

[0168] The test plant was modeled to develop a predictive heat of release and activation of the sprinkler profile as seen in Figure 10. From the predictive profiles, eighty percent of the maximum operational area of sprinklers 26 having A total of about sixteen (16) sprinklers was pre-formed following a maximum fluid release delay period of approximately twenty-five seconds (25 s). A minimum delay of the fluid discharge period of approximately ten seconds (10 s). .) was identified as the time lapse for the thermal activation of the four critical sprinklers for the given roof height H1 forty feet (40 ft.). Activation of the first sprayer was predicted to occur at about one minute fifty-five seconds (1:55) after ignition. A period of fluid discharge delay of approximately thirty-one seconds (31 s) was tested from the range of the maximum and minimum delay period of fluid discharge for the test.

[0169] In the test plant, the main article arrangement 50 and its geometric center was stored under four sprinklers in a tilted configuration. More speci fi cally, the main arrangement 54 of Class II material was stored on steel erected industrial shelves and a bar construction. Shelf members 32 feet long by 3 feet were arranged to provide a double-row main rack with four 8-foot compartments. The upper crossbars were positioned on the shelves in a vertical row at a height of five feet, increasing above the ground. Two objective arrays 52 were each spaced at a distance of eight feet (8 feet) around the main array. Each objective array 52 consisted of a compartment construction on a single row shelf using a steel construction. The shelf system of 32 feet in length by 3 feet was arranged to provide a single-row objective shelf with three eight-foot compartments. The upper crosspieces of the shelves of the target array 52 were positioned on the floor and in increments of 5 feet above the ground. The compartments of the main piping and objectives series14, 16 were charged to supply a nominal length of six inches and the transverse flow space through the objective, The main arrangement and objective shelves were approximately thirty-three feet high and consisted of seven vertical compartments. The standard class II article was constructed from corrugated cardboard boxes with three double walls with five steel reinforcements of five sides inserted for stability. The nominal measurement of the outer carton was 42 inches wide X 42 inches long X 42 inches high -.-u n, a. -Two hard wood entrance plates. The three-walled double-walled carton weighs about 84 pounds and each pallet weights about 52 pounds. The overall storage height was 34 ft.- 2 inches. (Nominally 34 feet.) And the movable roof was located at 40 feet.

[0170] A real fire test was started twenty-one inches off center from the center of the main array 54 and the time trial was run for a period of time T of thirty minutes (30 min.). The cotton ignition source was two standards of cotton cellulose fire initiator standards. Fire initiators were constructed with a three-inch by three-inch (3 in x 3 in) cellulose bunch soaked with 4 oz. Gasoline and rolled in a polyethylene bag. Following thermal activation of the first sprayer in system 10, fluid release and discharge was delayed for a period of thirty seconds (30 s) by means of a solenoid valve located after the main water control valve. In addition table 6 provides the operational area of the sprinklers predicted and the delivery delay period of the selected fluid, close to the results measured from the test.

Table 6 * At 3:00 the sprinkler discharge pressure was around 15 psi (80% design download rate).

[0171] The sprinkler system manages to discharge at a pressure of 15 psi, in approximately three minutes following the ignition. A total of thirty-six sprinklers are activated to form an operational area of sprinklers 26 thirty-eight seconds following the activation of the first sprinkler. It should be noted that the system reached an operating pressure of about 13 psig. In about two minutes forty-nine seconds (2:49) after the ignition, and the speed of the manual adjustment of the pump was provided at about 2:47 (3:21). Within 3 minutes of the ignition, the sprinkler discharge pressure was about fifteen 15 Psi.

[0172] Sprinkler activation results in example 6 demonstrating a scenario in which the area of operation of the enveloping and flooded sprinklers was formed; However, the operation area was formed by the operation of thirty-six sprinklers which is less efficient than a preferred sprinkler operation area of twenty-six and more preferably twenty or less sprinklers. It should also be noted that the operation of the thirty-six sprinklers were operated and discharged to the designated pressure operation within the acceptable time frame for the configuration of the dry sprinkler system to direct a fire with the surrounding and flooded configuration. More specifically, the entire area of sprinkler operation was formed and discharged to the designated pressure operation at less than. five minutes-three minutes, eleven seconds (3:11). Additional performance characteristics of sprinkler system 10 such as, for example, the extent of the damage of the item or the relative behavior of the fire to the store. For the test summarized in Table 6, it was observed that fire and damage remained limited to the main article arrangement 50.

[0173] Shown in Figure 10A, the graphic argument of the sprinkler performance indication, the location of each of the sprinkler performance relative to the ignition source. The graphical ar-graph shows two concentric rings of radial sprinkler activation emanating from the ignition source. No sprinkler jump was observed.

EXAMPLE 7 [0174] In a seventh fire test, a sprinkler system 10 for the protection of class III stored materials was modeled and tested in the test plant. The system parameters included class III items in a double row rack of the storage arrangement at a height of about thirty-five feet (35 feet) located in a storage area having a ceiling height about forty-five feet (45 ft.). The dry sprinkler system 10 included one hundred straight application storage sprinklers with a factor k of, 16.8. n a curved pipe system having a nominal RT I of 190 (ft-sec.) 1/2 in a thermal rating of 286 ° F in a space of ten feet by ten feet (10 ft x 10 ft). The sprinkler system was located such that the sprinkler reflectors were about seven inches (7 in.) Under the roof.

[0175] The test plant was modeled as normalized to develop a predictive warming of release and activation of the sprinkler profile as seen in Figure 11. Of the predictive profile, eighty percent of the maximum operational area of ro-ciators 27 having a total of about sixteen (16) sprinklers was predicted to occur following a maximum fluid release discharge period of about twenty-six to about thirty-two seconds (36-32 s). A minimum delay of the fluid discharge period of approximately one and two seconds (1-2 s) was identified as the time lapse for the thermal activation of the four critical sprinklers for the given roof height H1 forty-five feet (45 ft.). Activation of the first sprayer was predicted to occur at about one minute fifty seconds (1:50) after ignition. A delay of the fluid discharge period of approximately twenty-three seconds (23 s) was tested from the range of the maximum and minimum delay period of fluid discharge for the test.

[0176] In the test plant, the main article arrangement 50 and its geometric center was stored under four sprinklers in a compensation configuration. More specifically, the main series 54 of Class III material was stored on steel erected industrial shelves and a bar construction. Shelf members 32 feet long and 3 feet wide were arranged to provide a double-row main rack with four 8-foot compartments. Top rack units were positioned on vertical row shelves at a height of five feet, increasing on top of the rack. Floor. Two objective arrays 52 were spaced at a distance of eight feet (8 feet) from the main array's spar. These objectives ranked 52 consisted of industrial, single-row straight shelf using steel and a steel construction beam. The rack system 32 feet long by 3 feet wide was arranged to provide a single-row lens shelf with three eight-foot compartments. The crosspieces on the shelves of the target array 52 were positioned on the floor and in increments of 5 feet above the ground. The compartments of the main and objective series 14, 16 were charged to supply a nominal length of six inches and the space of the transverse flow through the objective, The main pipe and the objective of the series shelf were approximately thirty three. feet high and consisted of seven vertical compartments. The standard class III article was constructed from glasses of. paper (empty, size 8 ounces) comp.ar.timentados in corrugated cardboard boxes of simple wall measuring 21 x 21 x 21. Each box containing 125 glass in 5 layers of 25 glasses each. The compartmentalization was finished with a single wall of corrugated cardboard sheets to separate the five layers and a single vertical wall block of corrugated cardboard dividers to separate the five rows and the five columns of each layer. Eight cartons are loaded on a two-way hardwood platform, approximately 42 inches X 42 inches X 5 inches. The platform weighs approximately 119 pounds. Of which about twenty percent are paper cups, 43% is wood and 37% is corrugated cardboard. The storage height as a whole was 34 feet.- 2 inches. (Nominally 35 feet) And the movable roof was located at 45 feet.

[0177] A real fire test was started twenty one inches off center from the center of the main array 114 and the time trial was run for a period of time T of thirty minutes (30 min.). The source of cotton ignition was two halves of cotton cellulose fire starter standards. Fire initiators were constructed with a three-inch by three-inch (3 in x 3 in) cellulose bunch soaked with 4 oz. Gasoline and rolled in a polyethylene bag. Following thermal activation of the first sprayer in system 10, fluid release and discharge was delayed for a period of twenty-three. seconds (23 sec.) by means of a solenoid valve located after the main water control valve. Below table seven provides a summary table of both the model and test parameters, in addition, table 7 provides the operational area 26 of the sprinklers predicted and the delivery delay period of the selected fluid, close to the results measured at from the test.

Table 7 * The 30 psi. Pressure design was achieved at 2:29 and the total pressure at 40 psi was achieved at 2:32 after which, the pressure was reduced for the subsequent 24 seconds, below 30 psi.

[0178] The predictive profile identified a fire growth corresponding to approximately sixteen (16) pre-said activations of sprinklers following the discharge of the fluid from twenty-six seconds to thirty-two seconds of delay. According to the fire test observations, a total of twelve sprinklers were operating in the pressure system twenty nine seconds (29 s) after the activation of the first sprinkler for a significant impact on fire growth. Subsequently, two additional sprinklers were activated to form an operating area of sprinklers 26 having a total of fourteen sprinklers thirty seconds (30 s) following the activation of the first sprinkler.

[0179] Employing a fluid discharge delay in the system 10 resulted in the formation of a real operational area of sprinklers 26, arranged by fourteen (14) activated sprinklers. Which effectively direct fire. Additional performance characteristics of the dry sprinkler system 10 were observed as, for example, the extent of the damage to the article or the relative behavior of the fire to storage. For the summary of the test in Table 7, it was observed that fire spread was limited to the two bay centers of the main series 54, and pre-wet of the orderly target 56 preventing ignition. The jump of a sprinkler was not observed.

EXAMPLE 8 [0180] In the eighth fire test, a sprinkler system 10 for the protection of class III stored materials was modeled and tested. The system parameters included class III materials on a double-row shelf. -d.ql arrangement stored at a height of about thirty-five feet (35 ft.) Located in a storage area having a ceiling height of about forty feet (40 ft). The dry sprinkler system 10 included one hundred straight application storage sprinklers with a k-factor of 16.8 in a curved pipe system having a nominal RTI of 190 (ft-sec.) 1/2 in a thermal rating of 286 '° F in a space of ten feet by ten feet (10 ft x 10 ft). The sprinkler system was located such that the sprinkler reflectors were about seven inches (7 in.) Under the roof.

[0181] The test plant was modeled as normalized to develop a predictive warming of release and activation of the sprinkler profile as seen in Figure 12. Of the predictive profile, eighty percent of the maximum operational area of ro-ciators 27 having a total of about sixteen (16) sprinklers was predicted to occur following a maximum fluid release discharge period of approximately twenty-seven seconds (27 s.). A minimum delay of the fluid discharge period of approximately six seconds (6 s) was identified as the time lapse for the thermal activation of the four critical sprinklers for the given roof height H1 of forty feet (40 ft.). Activation of the first sprayer was predicted to occur at about one minute fifty-four seconds (1:54) after ignition. A delay in the period of discharge of the fluid. Approximately twenty-seven seconds (27 s) were tested from the range of the maximum and minimum delay period of fluid discharge for the test.

[0182] In the test plant, the main material series 50 and its geometric center was stored under four sprinklers in a compensation configuration. More specifically, the main series 54 of Class III material was stored on steel erected industrial shelves and a bar construction. The 32 ft. Length of 3 ft. Broad members of the shelf were arranged to provide a double-row main shelf with four compartments of 8 ft. The upper crossbars were positioned on the shelves in a vertical row at a height of five feet, increasing above the ground. Two ordered targets 52 were spaced at a distance of eight feet (8 ft.) Around the main array. Each objective array 52 consisted of a single row shelf using a steel bar construction. The 32-foot-long by 3-foot-wide shelf system was organized to provide a single-row lens shelf with three eight-foot compartments. The top crosspiece of objective fix 52 was positioned on the floor and in increments of 5 feet above the ground. The compartments of the main arrays and targets series 14, 16 were loaded to supply a nominal length of six inches and the space of the transverse flow through the objective, the main and objective arsenals were approximately thirty-three feet of high and consisted of seven vertical compartments. Items of Class III was constructed from paper cups (empty, 8 oz. size) divided into single walled compartments, corrugated cardboard cartons measuring 21 inches X 21 inches X 21 inches. This box with-has 125 glasses, 5 layers of 25 glasses. The sharing was finished with a single wall of corrugated cardboard sheets to separate the five layers and a single vertical wall lock of corrugated cardboard dividers to separate the five rows and the five columns of each layer. Eight cartons are loaded on a two-way hardwood platform, approximately 42 inches X 42 inches X 5 inches. The platform weighs approximately 119 Ibs. Of which it is about twenty percent of paper cups, 43% is wood and 37% is corrugated cardboard. The storage height as a whole was 34 feet - 2 inches (Nominally 35 feet) and the movable roof was located at 40 feet.

[0183] A real fire test was started twenty one inches off center from the center of the main array 114 and the time trial was run for a period of time T of thirty minutes (30 min.). The source of cotton ignition was two halves of cotton cellulose fire starter standards. Fire initiators were constructed with a three-inch by three-inch (3 in x 3 in) cellulose bunch soaked with 4 oz. Gasoline and coiled in a polyethylene bag. Following the thermal activation of the first sprinkler in system 10, fluid release and discharge was delayed for a period of twenty-seven seconds (27 s) by means of a solenoid valve located after the main water control valve. Below table seven provides a summary table of both the model and test parameters. In addition, Table 8 provides the operational area 26 of the sprinklers predicted and the delivery delay period of the selected fluid, close to the results measured from the test.

Table 8

[0184] The predictive profile identified a fire growth corresponding to approximately sixteen (16) pre-said activations of sprinklers following the discharge of the fluid of twenty-seven seconds (27 s) of delay. According to fire test observations, all twenty-six sprinklers were activated before the system reached system pressure at thirty-two seconds (32 s) after activation of the first sprinkler for a significant impact on fire growth. Subsequently, twenty-six sprinklers were activated to form an operating area of sprinklers 26 two minutes and thirteen seconds (2:13 s) following the activation of the first sprinkler.

[0185] Employing a fluid discharge delay in the system 10 resulted in the formation of a real operational area of sprinklers 26, arranged by twenty six (26) activated sprinklers. Which effectively direct fire. Additional features of the operation of the dry sprinkler system 10 were observed, for example, the extent of the damage to the article or the relative behavior of the fire to the storage. For the summary of the test in Table 8, it was observed that the propagation of the fire traversed the corridor to the top of the target array 52 but was extinguished immediately above the fluid discharge.

[0186] Each of these tests ensures that the dry sprinkler system, configured with an appropriate delayed duty, can respond to fire growth 72 with the thermal activation of a sufficient number of sprinklers to form an operational area 26. Download of water in the pressure of the system of the operational area of sprinklers 26 was shown beyond encircling and drowning the growth of fire 72 by overwhelming and, overcoming the fire above.

[0187] Generally each of the result of the operational area of sprinklers 26 was formed by twenty-six or less sprinklers. The operational result area of sprinklers and their operation demonstrates that fires in storage volumes can be effectively controlled with roof-only systems where shelf systems have traditionally been required. In addition, operational areas 26 sprinklers where resulted were formed by twenty or fewer sprinklers, the results of the tests indicate that the preaction or dry system can be configured with smaller hydraulic design areas than those previously required under the NFPA (2002). By minimizing hydraulic demand, the total volume of water discharged into the store is minimized. Finally, the evidence shows that the delay of the discharge of the fluid to allow an adequate control of the growth of fire can locate sprinkler activation in an area close to the fire and prevent or minimize the activation of remote sprinklers from the fire that do not necessarily impact directly fire and add additional discharge.

[0188] Since each of the test results in the successful formation and response of an operational area of sprinklers 26, each of the tests defines at least one period of mandatory fluid discharge delay for the corresponding ar-tic . and storage conditions. These tests were carried out for those items known to have high risk and / or combustible properties and the tests were carried out for various configurations and storage weights and several separations between the articles and the roof. In addition, these tests were carried out with a preferred embodiment of the sprayer 20 at two different operating or discharge pressures. Therefore, the total hydraulic demand of a pre-reaction or dry sprinkler system 10 is preferably a function of one or more factors of the storage spaces, including: the actual fluid discharge delay period, the item class, sprinkler K-factor, sprinkler handling style, thermal sprinkler response, sprinkler discharge pressure and total number of sprinklers activated. Because the above eight fire tests were carried out with the same sprayers and the same configuration, the resulting number of sprinkler operations in any of the tests was a function of one or more of: the actual fluid discharge delay period, the kind of items, the storage configuration and the discharge or operating pressure of the sprinklers.

[0189] With respect to Class II and Class III articles, since Class II is considered to be present in fewer fire events than Class III, a system 10 configured for Class III protection is applicable to storage space of Class II. The test results show that a double-row shelf configuration exhibits faster fire growth compared to a multi-row array. Thus, if it is presented with the same period of delay of the discharge of the fluid and more specifically, the same period of delay of discharging of real fluid, more sprinklers would be expected to operate before the operating pressure was reached in the scenario of double row shelf compared to multi-row arrangement.

[0190] Each of the tests was carried out in rack storage arrays, and in each test, the resulting operational spray area 26 overprotected and effectively subjugated the fire. The test systems 10 were all single roof sprinkler systems installed in sprinklers installed on the shelves. Based on the results of the test it would be assumed that dry sprinkler systems configured to control a fire with an operational sprinkler area 26 can be used as a single roof sprinkler protection system for shelf storage, and thus eliminate the need sprinklers on shelves.

[0191] Because the mandatory fluid discharge delay periods result in the proper formation of sprinkler operation areas 26 preferably having a number less than thirty and more often less than twenty sprinklers, it is believed that this space of Storage protected by dry sprinkler system having a mandatory fluid discharge delay period can be hydraulically supported or designed with smaller hydraulic capacity. In terms of the operational area of sprinklers, the resulting sprinkler operational areas have been shown to be equal to or smaller than the hydraulic design areas used in current dry or wet system design standards. Congruently, a sprinkler system having a mandatory fluid discharge delay period can produce an enveloping and flooded effect in response to a fire growth and can also be hydraulically configured or sized with a smaller volume of water than real dry systems .

[0192] It should also be noted that all sprinklers serving to provide the enveloping and flooded effect are thermally activated within a predetermined period of time. More specifically, the sprinkler system is configured in such a way that the last activated sprinkler occurs within ten minutes after the first activation of the thermal sprinkler in the system. More preferably the last sprayer is activated within the next eight minutes and more preferably, the last sprayer is activated within five minutes after the first activation of sprinklers in the system. Congruently, even when the dry sprinkler system includes a mandatory fluid delivery delay period out of the preferred minimum and maximum fluid discharge range which provides a more efficient hydraulic operating area, an operational sprinkler area can be formed to respond to a fire with an enveloping and waterlogged effect, as can be seen in test number six, even though a large number of sprinklers can be thermally activated.

[0193] The tests indicated illustrate that the preferred methodology can provide for a dry sprinkler system that eliminates or at least minimizes the effect of skipped sprinklers. Of the activation graphics provided, only one graph (FIG.7A) shows a single sprinkler jump. For comparative purposes a dry system fire test was carried out and the sprinkler activation plotted. For the wet system test, the sprinkler system 10 for the protection of Class II storage items was modeled and tested. The parameter system includes Class III items in a double-row shelf arrangement stored at a height of about forty feet located in a storage area with a ceiling height of about forty-five feet. The wet sprinkler system 10 includes one hundred straight application storage sprinklers with a K-factor of 16.8 having a nominal RTI of 190 (ft / sec.) 1/2 with a thermal rating of 286 ° F in a space of 10 ft. X 10 feet. The sprinkler system was located so that the reflectors of the sprinklers were about 7 inches below the ceiling. The wet tube system 10 was established as closed and pressurized head. (0194) In the testing plant, the main article arrangement 50 and its geometrical center were stored below 4 sprinklers in an inclined configuration. More specifically the main arrangement 54 of class III articles was stored on industrial shelves using steel construction and steel mallets. The shelf member 32 feet long X 3 feet wide was arranged to provide a double row main shelf with four, 8 foot compartments. An upper mallet was positioned on the shelves at a height of 1/3 vertical of 5 feet, in vertical rows in increments of 5 feet above the floor. An objective array 52 was spaced at a distance of 8 feet measured from the main array. The objective arrangement 52 consists of a single-row industrial shelf that uses steel and steel in a mallet in its construction. The 32-foot-long X 3-foot-wide shelf system was arranged to provide a single-row objective shelf with three 8-foot compartments. The upper mallet was positioned on the shelf of the target array 52 in vertical rows of increment of 5 feet above the floor. The objective and main compartments were included to provide a 6-inch transverse and longitudinal smoke exhaust space through the arrangements. The main and objective shelves of arrangements 50, 52 were approximately 68 feet high and consisting of 8 vertical compartments. The total storage height was 39 feet 1 inch and the movable roof height was determined at 45 feet. Class III standard articles included in each of the main and objective 50 arrangements, 52. Standard Class III items were constructed from paper cups (8-ounce size voids) divided into single-walled, corrugated cardboard boxes, measuring 21 inches X 21 inches x 21 inches. Each cardboard contains 125 glasses, that is to say 5 layers of 25 glasses. The compartment division was carried out with sheets of corrugated paper with simple sheets to separate the 5 layers interlocked with corrugated card dividers to separate the 5 rows and 5 columns in each layer. Eight cartons were incorporated into a 2-way hardwood platform, approximately 42 inches x 42 inches X 5 inches. The platform weighs approximately 119 pounds of which about 20% is paper cups, 43% are wood and 37% are corrugated cardboard. Samples of the articles were taken to determine the approximate moisture content. The samples were initially weighed, placed in an oven at approximately 220 ° F, at 36 hours and. Then we weigh one more time. The approximate moisture content of the articles is as shown below: box, 7.8% and glass 6.9%. (0195) A real fire test was started 21 inches off center from the center of the main array 114 using two standard cotton cellulose fire initiators, and the test was run for a 30 minute test period 7. The fire starter was constructed from a bundle of 3-inch X 3-inch cellulose impregnated with 4 ounces of gasoline and wrapped in a polyethylene bag. Table 9 shows a summary table of the results and parameters of the tests.

Table 9

[0196] According to the observations of the first test, the first five (5) sprinklers were operated within a period of 30 seconds (30 sec.) - These 5 sprinklers unable to adequately control the fire that grew and It acted thermally in addition to fourteen (14) sprinklers in 185 seconds after the first operation. The last sprinkler operation occurred 254 seconds after the first sprinkler operation. It was further noted that with the exception of the fifth spray operation, the second complete ring of sprinklers relative to the ignition site was subjected to impregnation from the initial set of activated and non-activated sprinklers (skipped sprinklers). Once the third ring of the sprinklers was operated, sufficient water flow was provided to prevent the activation of additional sprinklers. The third sprinkler ring was located at a minimum of about twenty-five feet (25 feet) from the ignition location shaft, and the sprinklers as far away as thirty-five feet (35 feet) since the ignition was activated . FIG 12A shows a graph of the activations of the sprinklers in the wet test system. Just close to an observation comparison in this wet test system, it might seem that the preferred method and system of a dry sprinkler system with-figured to control fire with an enveloping and flooded configuration using a mandatory period of discharge delay of the fluid could provide less sprinklers skipped with respect to a wet system that immediately discharges the fluid.

Hydraulically configured system for storage occupation

[0197] Schematically shown in FIG. 1A, the dry sprinkler system 10 includes one or more hydraulically removable sprinklers 21 defining a preferred hydraulic design area 25 that supports the system 10 in reaction to a fire event with a configuration enveloping and flooded. The chosen area 25 hydraulic design is an operational sprinkler area designated in system 10 to deliver a specific nominal discharge density D, from hydraulically remoter sprinklers 21 to a nominal discharge pressure P, a hydraulically designed system is preferable having a selected tube size on a pressure loss basis to provide a prescribed water density, in gallons per minute per square foot, or alternatively a prescribed minimum discharge pressure or fluid per spray, distributed with a reasonable degree of uniformity above a preferred hydraulic design area 25. The hydraulic design area 25 for the system 10 is preferably designed or specified for a given article and storage with elevation to the ceiling for the hydraulically furthest sprayer or area in the system 10.

[0198] Generally, the preferred hydraulic design area 25 is of the size and configuration around the hydraulically most remote rocker in the system 10 to ensure that the hydraulic demand of the rest of the system is satisfied. Furthermore, the preferred hydraulic design area 25 is of such size and configuration that an operational area of sprayer 26 can be effectively generated in any part of the system 10 above a fire growth. Preferably, the preferred hydraulic design area can be derived from a successful test such as those previously described above. In a successful fire test, the discharge of fluid through preferentially activated sprinklers, overproduce and subjugate the growth of the fire and the fire remains located in the ignition area for example the fire preferably does not skip the arrangement or migrate otherwise under the main arrangement and objective 50,52.

[0199] The results of successful fire tests, used to evaluate the effectiveness of a fluid discharge delay to form an operational area of sprinklers, preferably further define the operational area of hydraulic sprinklers. Summing up the results of activation of the 8 tests already discussed, the following table can be obtained.

Summary table of Design Areas

[0200] The identified number of the activated sprinklers, together with their sprinkler separations, each identifying a preferred hydraulic design area 25 for a given article, at the given storage and roofing heights to support a single roof of the dry system of a sprinkler 10 configured to address a fire event with an enveloping and flooded configuration. A review of the results also shows that the range number of sprinkler activations generally from fourteen to twenty sprinklers. Applying the modeling methodology described above, coupled with the selection of a thermally applied rating and sensitive sprinklers capable of producing adequate flow for an anticipated level of fire, a hydraulic design area 25 for a dry ceiling fire protection system can to be identified which can control a fire event in a storage volume with an enveloping and flooded configuration, to identify a preferred hydraulic design area. Accordingly, a preferred hydraulic design area 25 can be provided for all permutations of articles, storages, and ceiling heights, for example, these storage conditions listed but not tested in the summary table of design areas. On the other hand, the hydraulic design areas can also be extrapolated for those conditions neither tested nor listed above.

[0201] As noted above, an operational area of preferred hydraulic sprinklers 25 can be determined from about fourteen to about twenty sprinklers and more preferably from about eighteen about twenty sprinklers. Adding a safety factor to the extrapolation, it is assumed that the operational area of hydraulic sprinklers 25 can be measured from about twenty to about twenty-two sprinklers. In a 10 X 10 foot sprinkler space, this translates to a preferred hydraulic design area of about 2,000 square feet to about 2,500 square feet and more preferably about 2,200 square feet.

[0202] Notably, the current NFPA-13 standard specifies design areas to the most hydraulically remote area of wet roaster systems in the protection of storage areas of around 2,000 square feet. Accordingly, it is believed that a sprinkler system 10 configured to control a fire with an operational area 26 of sprinklers can be configured with a design area at least equal to that of wet systems under NFPA-13 for similar storage conditions. As already shown a sprinkler system configured to control a fire with an enveloping and flooded effect can reduce the hydraulic demands on the system 10 as compared to the current dry sprinkler systems incorporating the safety features or design penalties. Preferably the hydraulic design area 25 of the system 10 can be further reduced in such a manner.

The preferred hydraulic area of design 25 is smaller than the design areas for known wet sprinkler systems. In at least one test listed above, it was demonstrated that a dry sprinkler system for the protection of Group A plastics below a ceiling height of thirty feet or less may be hydraulically supported by 15 sprinklers that define a smaller hydraulic designation area than the 2000 square feet specified under the standard design for wet systems.

[0203] More specifically, it is believed that the fire test data demonstrates that a double-row plastic shelf of group A stored at 20 feet high, arguably has broad protection requirements, is protected with a dry pipe sprinkler system based on the opening of a limited number of sprinklers. It is further believed that the design criteria for wet systems was established based on test results that open a similar number of sprinklers as the result of the test for Group A plastics described above. In this way, it has been demonstrated that the design area of a dry sprinkler system can be the same or smaller than the design area of a wet sprinkler system. Because shelf storage tests are generally known to be more severe than palletized tests, the results are also applicable to palletized tests and to high challenge fire in general. On the other hand, according to the demonstration of the requests that the design area for a dry sprinkler system may be equal to or less than that of a dry system, it is believed that the design area may be extended at convenience by having minor rigorous protection demands.

[0204] Because the system 10 preferably utilizes the activation of a small number of sprinklers 20 to produce a surrounding and drowning effect to overwhelm and dominate the fire, the preferred hydraulic design area 25 of the dry sprinkler system 10 p. -It may also be based on a reduced hydraulic design area for dry sprinkler systems specified under NFPA-13. This is where, for example, Section 12.2, 2.1, 4 of NFPA-13 specifies the protection criteria for the control mode for palletizing, stacked solids, containers, boxes or storage racks for materials of class I to IV, a 2600 square foot design area has a water density of 0.15 gpm / ft2, the preferred hydraulic design area 25 is preferably specified under the dry standards at 2000 square feet having a density of 0.15 gpm / ft2. Therefore, the preferred hydraulic design area 25 is preferably smaller than the design areas for known dry sprinkler systems 10. The design densities for system 10 are preferably the same as those specified under Section 12 of NFPA. -13 for a given item, storage height and ceiling height. The reduction of current hydraulic design areas used in the design and construction of dry sprinkler systems can reduce the requirement and / or pressure demands of pumps or other devices in the system 10. Consequently the pipes and system devices can be specified for be smaller It should be appreciated however that the dry sprinkler systems 10 may have a preferred hydraulic design area 25 sized to be larger as design areas specified under the current available standards of NFPA-13 for dry sprinkler systems. Such systems 10 can still handle a fire with a surrounding and drowning effect and minimize the discharge of water provided by the system 10 that incorporates a period of fluid delivery delay as discussed above. Therefore, there is a range of design area for sizing a preferred hydraulic design area 25. At a minimum, the preferred hydraulic design area 25 may be at a minimum size of an operational area of activated sprinklers 26 provided by data from Fire test available and the hydraulic design area 25 can be at a maximum as large as the system allows as long as the requirements of the fluid delivery delay period can be met.

[0205] According to the test results, the configuration of dry sprinkler systems 10 with a sprinkler operating area 26 formed by the inclusion of a mandatory fluid delivery delay period may exceed the design penalties conventionally associated with dry sprinkler systems. More specifically, dry sprinkler systems 10 can be designed and configured with preferred hydraulic design areas equal to the operational design areas of sprinklers specified for wet pipe systems in NFPA-13. In this way, the preferred hydraulic design area 25 can be used to design and build a dry pipe sprinkler system that avoids the dry pipe "penalties" previously discussed-such as. - prescribed by NFPA-13 for the design to hydraulically perform at least the same as a wet system designed in accordance with NFPA-13. However, it is believed that dry pipe fire protection systems can be designed and installed without the incorporation of design penalties, previously warned as needed, under NFPA-13, design penalties for dry pipe systems can be minimized or eliminated in another way. On the other hand, the evidence indicates that the design methodology can effectively be used for dry sprinkler systems to protect from fire of articles where there are no standards for any system. Specifically, mandatory fluid delivery delay periods and preferred hydraulic design areas can be incorporated into a dry sprinkler system design to define a hydraulic performance criterion where none of these criteria is known. For example, NFPA-13 only provides standards for wet systems for certain class of items such as Class III items. The preferred methodology can be used to establish ceiling-only sprinkler system standards for Class III items by specifying an indispensable hydraulic design area and a mandatory fluid delivery delay period.

[0206] A long period of mandatory fluid delivery delay with the preferred hydraulic design area 25 can provide design criteria of which dry sprinkler system can preferably be designed and constructed .., More preferably, long periods of delivery delay of maximum and minimum mandatory fluid with the preferred hydraulic design area 25 may provide design criteria of which dry sprinkler system may preferably be designed and constructed. For example, a preferred dry sprinkler system 10 can be designed and constructed for installation in a storage space 70 for identification or specification of the preferred hydraulic design area 25 for a given set of article parameters and storage space specifications. The preferred hydraulic design area specification 25 preferably includes the identification of the number of sprinklers 20 in the hydraulically most remote area of the system 10 that can collectively meet the hydraulic requirements of the system. As discussed above, specifying the preferred hydraulic design area 25 can be extrapolated from fire tests or otherwise derived from the wet system design areas provided in the NFPA-13 standards.

METHOD OF IMPLEMENTATION OF THE SYSTEM FOR THE STORAGE OCCUPATION Method for the generation of system design criteria

[0207] A preferred methodology for designing a fire protection system provides for designing a dry sprinkler system for the protection of items, equipment or the like located in a storage area. The methodology includes the establishment of design criteria around which the preferred sprinkler system is configured to encircle and choke which in response can be modeled, simulated and constructed. A preferred sprinkler system design methodology is employed to design a sprinkler system 10. Preferably, the design methodology generally includes the establishment of at least three criteria or design parameters; the preferred hydraulic design area 25 and the minimum and maximum mandatory fluid delivery delay periods for the system 10 using predictive heat release and sprinkler activation profiles for the stored items that are protected.

[0208] Figure 13 shows a flow chart 100 of the preferred methodology for the design and construction of the dry sprinkler system 10 having a sprinkler operation area 26. The preferred methodology preferably includes a collection step 102. that collects the parameters of the warehouse and items to be protected. These parameters preferably include the kind of material, the configuration of the articles, the height of the storage ceiling and some other parameters that impact the increase of fire and / or the activation of sprinklers. The preferred method further includes a development step 104 for developing a fire model and a predictive heat release profile 402 as seen, for example, in Figure 4 and described above. In a generation phase 105, the predictive heat release profile is. used to solve for predicting sprinkler activation times to generate a predictive sprinkler activation profile 402 as shown in Fig. 4 and described above. The store parameters and items collected in step 102 are then used to identify a preferred hydraulic design area 25, as indicated in step 106. More preferably, the preferred hydraulic design area 25 is extrapolated from available fire test data. , as described above, or alternatively selected from known hydraulic design areas provided by NFPA-13 for wet sprinkler systems. The preferred hydraulic design area 25 of step 106 defines the number of sprinkler activation requirements through which the system 10 must be able to provide for supplying at least one of: (i) a requirement for the flow rate of water or other material fire fighting; or (i) a specific density such as, for example, 0.8 galloons per minute per square foot.

[0209] Thus, in a preferred embodiment of methodology 100, the design criteria for a dry sprinkler protection system that protects stored items is provided and may be substantially the same as that of a wet system specified under NFPA- 13 for a similar article. Preferably, the articles or merchandise for which the dry system is preferably designed in a 25-foot-tall double-row shelf of plastic items, from Group A. Alternatively, the articles may be some kind of group of items listed under NFPA-13 Ch. 5.6.3. Beyond the alternative, additionally, other items or merchandise such as aerosols and flammable liquids can be protected. For example, NFPA-30 Code for Flammable and Combustible Liquids (2003 ed.) And NFPA 30b Code for the Manufacture and Storage of Aerosol Products (2002 ed.), Each of which is incorporated in its entirety as a reference. In addition, by NFPA-13, additional items to be protected may include, for example, rubber tires, palletized platforms, packed cotton, and rolled paper. More preferably, the preferred method 100 includes designing the system as a roof-only dry pipe sprinkler system to protect the shelf in an enclosure. The enclosure preferably has a 30-foot ceiling, designing the dry sprinkler system that preferably includes grid specifications of the roaster network having a K-factor of approximately 16.8. The grid of the network includes a preferred sprinkler operation design area of about 2000 square feet and the method may further include modifying the model such as to preferably have at least the hydraulic equivalent of a wet system as specified by NFPA. -13. For example, the model may incorporate a design area such as to substantially correspond to the design criteria under NFPA-13 for protection of wet systems from a double-row shelf storage of plastic items, from the .Group A stacked to 25 ft. D. "Height" under a 30-foot-high roof.

[0210] The design methodology 100 and the extrapolation of available fire test data, as described above, can also provide a preferred hydraulic design point. The IG. 13B shown is an illustrative graph of area density for use in designed fire sprinkler systems. More specifically, it shows the design point 25 'which has a value of 0.8 gallons per minute per square foot (gpm / ft2) to define a required amount of water discharge from a sprinkler over a given period of time and a given area. providing that the spacing between sprinklers for the system is properly maintained. According to Figure 10, the preferred design area is approximately 2000 square feet, thus defining a design or area of required sprinkler operation in which a preferred dry sprinkler system can be designed to provide 0.8 gpm / ft2 per 2000 square feet. Design point 25 'may be a preferred area density point used in hydraulic calculations to design a dry pipe sprinkler system in accordance with the preferred methodology described herein. The pre-ferred design point 25 'described above has been shown to overcome the 125% increase of the penalized area because the design point 25' provided for dry system represents the least equivalent for a wet system. Consequently, the design methodology incorporates the preferred design area and a system constructed in accordance with the preferred methodology demonstrates that dry pipe fire protection systems can be designed and installed without the incorporation of design penalties. , previously perceived as a need, under NFPA-13. Therefore the applicant guesses that a need for penalties in the design of dry pipe systems can be eliminated.

[0211] In addition to providing a dry sprinkler protection system with a desired water discharge, the preferred design methodology 100 can be configured to meet other requirements of NFPA-13 such as, for example, water discharge time required . Thus, the preferred design area 25 and methodology 100 can be configured to calculate by fluid discharge the hydraulically activated sprinkler furthest away within a range of about 15 seconds to about 60 seconds of sprinkler activation. More preferably, the methodology 100 identifies a preferred mandatory water discharge delay period as previously discussed as the system 10 is configured to handle a fire event with a circling and drowning configuration. Accordingly, the design methodology 100 preferably includes a temporary storage passage 108 which identifies a fraction of the specified maximum operating area of the sprinklers 27 to be formed for a maximum period of fluid delivery delay. Preferably, the maximum operating area of sprinklers 27 is equal to the minimum preferred hydraulic design area available for system 10, alternatively, the maximum operating area of the sprinklers is equal to the design area specified under NFPA-13 by a wet system protecting the same items, in the same storage and ceiling height.

[0212] The temporary storage step preferably provides that 80% of the maximum specified operating area of the sprinklers 27 is activated by the maximum delay period of fluid release. Thus, for example, when the maximum delay period of fluid release is specified for twenty sprinklers or 2000 square feet, the temporary storage step identifies that the initial fluid release must occur at the predicted time for sixteen sprinklers to be released. activate. The temporary storage step 108 reduces the number of sprinkler activations required to initiate or form the total maximum operating area 27 of the sprinklers such that water can be introduced into the storage space 70 before 100% sprinklers in the specified maximum operating area of sprinklers 27 required to activate prior to fluid release. In addition, the fluid released in advance allows the discharge of water to rise to a desired system pressure; that is, compression time, to reduce the flow rate required over time, preferably all sprinklers required from the maximum operating area 27 of the sprinklers are activated substantially.

[0213] In determination step 116, the time is determined so that 80% of the maximum operating area 27 of the sprinklers is predicted to be formed. Again referring to FIG. 4, the time span measured from the activation of the first sprinklers predicted in the system 10 for the end of the activation forming the preferred eighty percent (80%) of the maximum operation area 27 of the sprinklers, defines the maximum delay of Atmax fluid release as envisaged in step 118. The use of the temporary storage step 108 also calculates for some variable and its impact on the activation of sprinklers that are not easily captured in the predictive heat release and sprinkler activation profiles . Because the maximum operating area 27 for the sprinklers is intended to be the largest sprinkler operating area for the system 10 that can effectively direct a fire with a surrounding and drowning effect, the water is introduced into the previous system rather then the possibility is minimized that the water is released too late to form the maximum operating area 27 of the sprinklers and controls the anticipated growth of the fire. If the water is introduced too late, the growth of the fire may be larger to be effectively controlled by the area of operation of the sprinklers or otherwise the system may return to a configuration of control mode in which the rate of heat release decrease.

[0214] Referring again to flow chart 100 of FIG. 3 and profile 400 of FIG. 4, the time in which the minimum operating area 28 of the sprinklers is formed can be determined in step 112 using predictive heat release based on time and sprinkler activation profiles. Preferably, the minimum operating area 28 of the sprinklers is defined by a critical number of sprinkler activations for the system 10. The critical number of sprinkler activations preferably provides for an initial minimum operating area of the sprinklers controlling a sprinkler. fire with a discharge of water or liquid so that the fire continued to grow in response such that an additional number of sprinklers are thermally activated to form a complete operation area 26 of sprinklers. The critical sprinkler activation number preferably depends on the height of the sprinkler system 10. For example, when the height for the sprinkler system is less than thirty feet, the critical sprinkler activation number is approximately two to four. (2 to 4) sprinklers. In storage areas where the sprinkler system is installed at a height of thirty feet or more, the critical number of activation of sprinklers is approximately four sprinklers. Measured from the first predetermined sprinkler activation, this time allows to predict the • critical activation of sprinklers; that is, two to four activated sprinklers preferably define the mandatory minimum delay period of Atm fluid release as indicated in step 114. To introduce water into the storage area may prevent prematurely the growth of the fire consequently the activation of all critical sprinklers in the minimum operation area of the sprinklers.

[0215] In this manner, a dry sprinkler system can be provided with design criteria to produce a surrounding and drowning effect using the method described above. It should be known that the steps of the preferred method can be exercised in some random order, foreseeing that the steps are practical to generate the appropriate design criteria. For example, the period of minimum delay of fluid release can be determined before the step of determining the maximum delay period of fluid release, or the hydraulic design area can be determined before any period of both periods of minimum delay or maximum fluid release. Multiple systems can be designed by collection of multiple inputs and parameters for one or more storage occupations to be protected. The multi-foot systems designed can be used to determine the most practical and / or economical configuration to protect occupancy. Additionally, if a series of predictive models are developed, one can use portions of the method to evaluate and / or determine the maximum and minimum delay periods of fluid clearance.

[0216] On the other hand, in a commercial practice, one can use the model series to create a database of display tables to determine the maximum and minimum delay periods of fluid release for a variety of storage occupations and merchandise conditions. Therefore, the database thus simplifies the design process by eliminating step modeling. As shown, for example in FIG. 13a is a simplified methodology 100 'for designing and constructing a system 10. With a fire test information database an operator or designer can design and / or build a sprinkler system 10. An initial step 102' provided to identify and collect project details such as, for example, storage parameters and items to be protected. These parameters preferably include the kind of material, the configuration of the articles, the height of the storage ceiling. A reference step 103 'provided for querying a test data database with fire for one or more stored item configurations and occupations. From the database, a selection step 105 can be executed to identify a hydraulic design area and fluid release delay period that is effective for a storage occupation and configuration of stored items corresponding to the parameters collected in the collection step 102 'to support and creating a sprinkler operation area 26 to control a test fire. The identified hydraulic design areas and the fluid release delay period can be implemented in a system designed for the construction of a roof-only dry sprinkler system capable of protecting a storage occupancy with a surrounding effect and drowning.

Method of using design criteria to develop system parameters for storage occupancy [02] The preferred methodology 100 therefore identifies the three design criteria as discussed above, a preferred hydraulic design area, a minimum delay period of release of fluid and a period of maximum delay of fluid release in the design and construction of sprinkler systems 10 is preferably an Interactive process by which system 10 can be dynamically modeled to determine whether sprinklers within system 10 experience a delay of fluid release that fails within a range of the maximum and minimum delay periods required for fluid release identified. Preferably, all sprinklers experience a period of fluid release delay within the range of the maximum and minimum delay periods of fluid release identified. Alternatively, however, the system 10 may be configured such that one or a few selected sprinklers 20 'are configured with a mandatory delay period of fluid release provided for the thermal activation of a minimum number of surrounding sprinklers. the sprinklers selected to form the operation area of the sprinklers 26.

[0218] Preferably, a dry sprinkler system 10 has a hydraulic design area 25 to support a surrounding and drowning effect that can be mathematically modeled such as to include one or more activated sprinklers. The model can further be characterized by the flow of liquid and gas through the system 10 over time following an event that triggers a slippage of the first water control valve. The mathematical model can be used to solve by the discharge pressure of liquid and the discharge time of some activated sprinkler. Model discharge times can be evaluated to determine system compliance with mandatory fluid release times. In addition, the modeled system can be altered and the liquid discharge characteristics can be repeatedly solved to evaluate changes for the system 10 and to bring the system in accordance with the designated criteria of a preferred hydraulic design area and mandatory delay period of fluid release. To facilitate the modeling of the dry sprinkler system 10 and to solve for the times and «liquid discharge characteristics, MQ user can use computer programs capable of building and solving for the hydraulic performance of the sprinkler system 10. Alternatively, to design and alternatively modeling the system 10, a user can physically establish a system 10 and modify the system 10 to transform, for example, long pipe or by introducing other devices to achieve the fluid release delays designed for each sprinkler in the circuit. The system can then be examined to test by activating a sprinkler in the system and determine if the fluid is released from the first water control valve for the test sprinkler that is within the design criteria of the minimum delay periods and maximum fluid release required.

[0219] The preferred hydraulic design area 25 and the mandatory fluid release delay periods define design criteria that can be incorporated for use in the collection step 120 of the preferred design methodology 100 as shown in the flow chart of FIG. 10. The criterion of step 120 can be used in a design and construction step 122 to model and implement the system 10. More specifically a dry pipe sprinkler system 10 for protection of stored items can be modeled such that to capture The characteristics of the pipe, pipe assembly, liquid source, elevation, and various configurations, three types or branches while counting for the preferred hydraulic design area and fluid release delay period. in pipe lifts, pipe branches, accelerators, or other control devices The dry designed sprinkler system can be modeled mathematically and dynamically to capture and simulate the design criteria, including the preferred hydraulic design area and the design period. fluid release delay The delay period of fluid release can be solved using a computer program described, for example, in patent application US 10 / 942,817 filed on September 17, 2004, published as, US 2005/0216242, and entitled "system and method for the evaluation of fluid flow in a pipe system" which is incompatible for its reference in its entirety. According to the design criteria, the other program can be used in such a way that it is capable of sequentially activating the sprinklers and simulating the discharge of fluid for the effective formation of the model and the operation of the preferred hydraulic design area. 25. Such application of the software is described in the field of the rnational PCT patent application of October 3, 2006 entitled "System and method for the evaluation of the fluid flow in a pipe system" having the label number S-FB- 00091 WO (73434-029WO) and claiming as a priority the provisional patent application US 60 / 722,401 filed on October 3, 2005. Describing there a computer program and its underlying something-rhythm and its computational engines that make the design work of sprinkler system, sprinkler sequence and simulation of fluid discharge. Accordingly, such a computer program can dynamically design and model a sprinkler system for fire protection of a given commodity in a given storage area. The designed and modeled sprinkler system can also simulate and sequence the activation of sprinklers according to the sprinkler activation profile predictive 404 based on the time, described above, to dynamically model the system 10. The preferred software application program / program is also displayed and described in the user manual entitled "SprinkFDT ™ Sprink- CALC ™; SprinkCAD Studio user manual "(September 2006).

[0220] The dynamic model can, based on the activation of the pipes and pipe configurations, simulate the water path through the system 10 at a specific pressure to determine if the hydraulic design criterion and the discharge time criterion of mandatory minimum and maximum fluid are satisfied. If the water discharge fails to occur as predicted, the model can be modified according to the water discharge within the requirements of the preferred hydraulic design area and the mandatory fluid discharge periods. For example, the pipe in the modeled system is shortened or lengthened in such a way that the water -. ·· be downloaded at the expiration of. p.Delay period of fluid discharge. Alternatively, the designed piping system may include a pump to meet the fluid release requirements. In one aspect, the modeling can be designed and simulated by activating sprinklers in the hydraulically furthest sprinkler to determine whether the release of fluid with the maximum specified fluid release time is such that the hydraulic design area In addition, the simulated system can provide by sequencing the thermal activation of preferably the four hydraulically more remote sprinklers to solve the delay period of the fluid release.Alternatively, the model can be simulated with the activation of the hydraulically closest sprayer to determine if the fluid discharge complies with the minimum delay periods of fluid discharge such as thermally activating a critical number of sprinklers.Furthermore, the simulated system may provide a sequence of thermal activations of preferably four hydraulically closest sprinklers for r Solve a period of delayed release of simulated fluid. Consequently, the model and simulation of the sprinkler system can verify that the fluid discharge for each system sprinkler fails within the range of maximum and minimum times of fluid release. The dynamic modeling and simulation of the sprinkler system allows interactive design techniques to be used to produce sprinkler systems performed in compliance with the design criteria rather than relying on the modification of the posterior constructions of physical plants to correct non-compliance with the specifications design.

[0221] In FIG. 14 shows an illustrative flow diagram 200 for interactive and dynamic design modeling of a proposed dry pipe sprinkler system 10. A model can be constructed to define a dry sprinkler system 10 as a network of sprinklers and pipes. The grid space between sprinklers and branching lines of the system may be specified, for example 10 feet by 10 feet, 10 feet by 8 feet or 8 feet by 8 feet, among sprinklers. The system can be modeled to incorporate specific sprinklers, such as sprinklers with a K factor of 16.8 to 286 ° F, which have a specific application to be stored as the UL-TRA K17 sprinkler provided by Tyco Fire an Building Products and shown and described in data sheet TFP331 entitled "Ultra K17 - K Factor 16.8 Application Specifies Vertical Response Mode for Sprinkler Standards, 286 ° F / 1410 C" (March 2006) where it is incorporated in its entirety for reference . However, some convenient sprayer can be used in such a way that the sprayer can provide sufficient volume of fluid and cooling effect to cause the surrounding and drowning effect. More specifically, the convenient sprayer provides a satisfactory fluid discharge volume, a vector of the fluid discharge rate (direction and magnitude) and fluid droplet size distribution. Examples of other suitable sprinklers include, but are not limited to, the following sprinklers provided by Tyco FIRE &; Building Prodcuts, Series ELO-231 - 11.2 K-Factor vertical or suspended sprinkler heads, standard response, standard coverage (data sheet TFP340 (January 2005), model K-17-231 - 16.8 K factor vertical sprinklers and pendants , standard response, standard coverage (data sheet TFP332 (January 2005); Model EC-25-25.2 Factor erect sprinklers density of extended coverage area (data sheet TFP213 (September 2004); model ESFR-25-25.2 Factor K (data sheets TFP312 (January 2005), ESFR-17-16.8 K-Factor (data sheet TFP318 (January 2004) rapid early suppression response for erect and hanging sprinklers, each of which is shown and described in their respective data sheets that are incorporated as a reference in their entirety In addition, the dry sprinkler system model may incorporate a water supply or "wet portion" 12 of the system connected to the dry portion 14 of the dry sprinkler system 1 0. The patterned dry portion 12 may include a device of a first water control valve, recoil preventer, fire pump, valves and associated pipe. The dry sprinkler system can also be configured as a tree or tree with a curved roof system only.

[0222] The model of the dry sprinkler system can simulate formations of the sprinkler operating area 26 by simulation of a set of sprinklers activated for a surrounding and drowning effect. The sprinkler activations can be sequenced according to defined usage parameters such as, for example, a sequence that allows the prediction of sprinkler activation profiles. The model can also incorporate the preferred fluid release delay period by fluid and gas simulation traveling through the system 10 and the activated sprinklers defining the preferred hydraulic design area 25. The modeled fluid release times can be compared with specified mandatory fluid release delay periods and the system can be properly adjusted such that the fluid release times are in accordance with the required fluid release delay periods. From a properly patterned and compliant system 10, a current dry sprinkler system can be constructed.

[0223] In FIGS. 18 A, FIG. 18 B, and FIG. 18C a preferred dry pipe fire protection system 10 'is shown designed according to the preferred design methodology described above. The system 10 'is preferably configured for the protection of a storage occupation. The system 10 'includes a plurality of sprinklers 20' arranged on a protective area and below. of a roof. Within the storage area is at least one shelf 50 of stored items. Preferably, the articles are cataloged under NFPA-13 classes of articles: Class I, Class II, Class III and Class IV and / or plastics of Group A, Group B and Group C. The shelf 50 is located between the protection area and the plurality of sprinklers 20 '. The system 10 includes a pipe network 24 'which is configured to supply water for the plurality of sprinklers 20'. The pipe network 24 'is preferably configured such that it includes the hydraulically furthest sprayer in the plurality of sprinklers 20'. The pipe network 24 'is preferably filled until at least one of the sprinklers 20' is activated or a first control valve is actuated. According to the design methodology described above, the design area preferably corresponds to the design area provided in NFPA-13 for wet sprinkler systems. More preferably, the design area is equivalent to 2000 square feet. In the alternative mode, the design area is smaller than the design areas provided in NFPA-13 for dry sprinkler systems.

[0224] Alternatively, in opposition to the construction of new sprinkler systems to employ a surrounding and drowning effect, there are dry and wet sprinkler systems that can be adapted to employ an optional sprinkler area to protect a storage occupancy with an effect surrounding and drowning. For existing wet systems, a conversion to the desired system for a surrounding and flood effect can be provided for the conversion of the system to a dry system by the inclusion of a first water control valve and necessary components to ensure that the period of delay of Release of mandatory fluid to the hydraulic sprinkler-more distant is attended. Because the inventors have discovered that the hydraulic area designed in the preferred embodiment of the surrounding sprinkler and flood system may be equivalent to the designed hydraulic area of a wet system designed under NFPA-13, those skilled in the art can readily apply the teachings of Circulating and flooding techniques for existing wet systems. Thus, applicants have provided a realistic economic method for converting existing wet sprinkler systems into preferred dry sprinkler systems.

[0225] In addition, these skills may have an advantage in reducing hydraulic discharge from the preferred operational area of sprinklers in a surrounding and flood system to modify existing dry systems to produce the same operational area capable of surrounding and extinguishing a fire. In particular, components such as, for example, accumulators or accelerators can be added to dry sprinkler systems to ensure that the hydraulically furthest sprinkler in the system experiences a delay in d.al. Mandatory flow on activation of sprinklers. The inventors believe in the reconfiguration of a dry or wet sprinkler system to quench a fire with a surrounding and flood effect that can eliminate or otherwise minimize the economic disadvantages of common sprinkler systems. To control fires with a surrounding configuration and flood without the need to discharge water can be avoided. In addition, the inventors believe that the fire protection provided by the preferred operational area of sprinklers can provide better fire protection than existing systems.

[0226] In view of the discoveries of the inventors the discovery of a system that used a surrounding configuration and flood to smother a fire and the inventors further developed the methodologies to implement as a system, various systems, subsystems and areas Processes now available to provide fire protection components, systems, approaches and design applications, preferably for storage occupancy, for one or more parties as intermediaries or end users, such as, for example, fire protection manufacturers, suppliers , contractors, installers, landlords and / or tenants of buildings. For example, a process may be provided for a method of a roof-only fire protection system that utilizes the surrounding and flood effect. Additionally or alternatively, the provision may be a qualified sprinkler to be used in such systems. In addition the provision can be a complete system of fire protection only for roof using the surrounding and flood effect and its approximate designs. Fire protection system offerings and their methodologies that employ a surrounding and flood effect can be incorporated into the business-to-business design and application for fire protection products and services.

[0227] In an illustrative aspect of providing a fire protection device and method, a sprinkler is preferably obtained for use in dry sprinkler fire protection systems preferably of a storage occupation. More specifically, preferably the obtained sprinkler is a sprinkler 20 qualified to be used in a roof-only fire protection system for a storage occupation 70 over a range of available ceiling heights H1 for the protection of stored product 50 having a classification range and a range of H2 storage heights. More preferably, the sprayer 20 is registered by an organization approved by an authority having the jurisdiction as such, for example, NFPA or UL to be used in a fire protection system only for ceilings for fire protection of, for example, any of the products of Class I, II, III and IV that ·., | extend at a storage height of approximately twenty feet to approximately forty feet (20-40 feet) or alternatively, a plastic product of Group A that has a storage height of approximately 20 feet. Even more preferably, the sprinkler 20 is qualified to be used in a dry roof-only fire protection system, such as the sprinkler system 10 described above, configured to smother and control a fire event with a surrounding and flood effect .

[0228] The obtaining of the registered sprinklers preferably can more specifically include the design, manufacture and / or acquisition of the sprinkler 20 for use in a dry fire protection system only for roof 10. Designing or manufacturing the included sprinklers 20, as see for example in FIG. 15 and 16, a preferred sprayer 320 has a sprayer body 322 with an inlet 324, an outlet 326 and a passage 328 therebetween to define a K factor of eleven (11) or greater and more preferably about seventeen and even more preferably around 16.8. The preferred sprinkler 320 is preferably configured as a vertical sprinkler although other installation configurations are possible. Preferably it is disposed within the outlet 326 as a closing assembly 332 having a plate member 332b. A preferred spray mode 320 is provided as the ULTRA K17 sprayer from Tyco fire & Building Products, as shown and described in data sheet TFP331.

[0229] The latch assembly 322 is preferably supported on a plate by a thermal actuator assembly 330. The actuator assembly 330 is preferably of thermal regime of about 286 ° F such that opposite such temperature, the activation assembly 330 acts to move the closure assembly 322 of the outlet 326 to allow discharging from the sprinkler body. Preferably, the activation assembly 330 is configured as a bulb-type activation assembly with a response time index of 190 (feet-sec.) ½. The RTI of the sprinklers can alternatively be configured appropriately to suit the sprinkler configuration and sprinkler spacing of the system.

[0230] The preferred sprayer 320 is configured with a designed operation or discharge pressure to provide a fluid distribution to effectively control a fire event. Preferably, the designed discharge pressure ranges from about fifteen pounds per square inch to about sixty pounds per square inch (15-60 psi), preferably in ranges of about fifteen pounds per square inch to about forty five pounds. per square inch (15-45 psi), more preferably in ranges of about twenty pounds per square inch to about thirty-five pounds per square inch (20-35 psi), and even more preferably in ranges of approximately twenty-two pounds per square inch to approximately thirty pounds per square inch (22-30 psi). Sprinklers 320 preferably further include a deflector assembly 336 for distributing the fluid over a protection area in a manner that overwhelms and subjects a fire when employed in a roof-only protection system 10 configured for a surrounding and drowning effect.

[0231] Another preferred aspect of the sprinkler obtaining process 320 may include qualifying the sprinkler for use in a roof-only dry fire protection system 10 for stored items configured to encircle and smother a fire. More preferably, the preferred sprayer 320 can be tested on fire in a manner substantially similar to the eight exemplified fire tests described. Therefore, the sprinkler 320 may be located in a plant test sprinkler system having a storage occupancy at a ceiling height on test items at a storage height. A plurality of sprinklers 320 are preferably arranged with a sprinkler grid system suspended from the ceiling of the stored occupation to define a height of the sprinkler deflector to the ceiling and further defines a separation height between a sprinkler and the articles. In other fire tests given, the items are. burned such the initial flame c, rez.ca "and one or more sprinklers are activated thermally in initial form. The release of the fluid is delayed by a designed period of delay to one or more sprinklers thermally operated initially to allow thermal actuation of a subsequent set of sprinklers to form a sprinkler operation area in operation of sprinklers or pressure sprinklers. discharge able to overwhelm and master the test of fire.

[0232] E I sprinkler 320 is preferably qualified for use in a ceiling-only dry sprinkler system for a range of article classification and storage heights. For example, sprinklers 320 are tested in fire for any of the items of Class I, II, III or IV or plastics of Group A, Group B or Group C for a range of storage heights, preferably between twenty and forty feet (20-40 feet). The plant-proven roaster system can be arranged and the fire tests at varying ceiling heights preferably in ranges of twenty-five to forty-five feet (25 to 45 feet) such that it defines the ranges of separation from sprinklers to storage. Accordingly, sprinkler 320 can be tested with fire within sprinkler systems with plant proof for various ceiling heights, for a variety of items, various storage configurations and storage heights such that the sprinkler is evaluated for use in systems fire protection only roof, d e-u-na variety of permutacione &, roof height, classification of items, storage configurations and storage heights and combinations of these. Instead of sprinklers 320 rated or tested for a range of storage occupancy and stored item configurations, the sprinkler 320 can be qualified and tested by a simple parameter such as a preferred fluid release delay period for a storage height. and given ceiling height.

[0233] More preferably, the sprayer 320 can be qualified in such a way that it can be "listed" as defined by NFPA 13, Section 3.2.3 (2002) as equipment, materials or services included in a list published by an organization. which is accepted by the authority having jurisdiction and interest with the evaluation of products or services and whose status of the list that any of equipment, material or services meet appropriately with designated standards or have been tested and found adequately for a purpose specific. Thus, an organized listing such as, for example, Subscriber Laboratories, Inc., preferably lists sprinkler 320 for use in a fire protection system only for roof of a storage occupation over the classification range of tested items, heights. of storage, heights of sky and separations sprayer to reflector. In addition, the listing would have foreseen that the 320 roaster is approved or qualified to be used in a dry ceiling fire protection system only by a range of item classification and storage configuration at those ceiling heights and storage heights when falling between the approved values.

[0234] In one aspect of the fire protection system and method, the preferred sprayer, such as, for example, the qualified sprayer 320 described above, may be incorporated, obtained and / or packaged in a preferred fire protection system only. of ceiling 500 for use in fire protection of a storage occupation. As seen for example in FIG. 17, which shows schematically example in FIG. 17, schematically showing system 500 for roof-only protection of a storage occupation to control a fire event with a surrounding effect and drowning. Preferably, the system 500 includes a riser assembly 502 to provide controlled communication between a fluid or wet portion 512 of the system 500 and the dry portion preferably of the system 514.

[0235] The riser assembly 502 preferably includes a control valve 504 for controlling the fluid release between the wet portion 512 and the dry portion 514. More specifically, the control valve 504 includes an inlet for receiving the fluid from the fluid. fire fighting from the wet portion 512 and further includes an outlet for the discharge of the fluid. Preferably, the control valve 504 is a solenoid-operated flood valve that is operated by the solenoid 505, but another type of valves control devices can be used such as, for example, mechanical or electrical closing control valves. In addition, in an alternative, the control valve 504 may be an air / water ratio control valve, for example, as shown and described in US Pat. No. 6,557,645 which is incorporated in its entirety by reference. One type of preferred control valves is the DV-5 FLOODING VALVE from Tyco Fire & Building Products, shown and described in the Tyco TFP1305 data sheet, entitled "Flood Valve Model DV-5, diaphragm style, 1-1 / 2 by 8 inches (DN40 by DN200, 250 psi (17.2 bar) Vertical Installation u Horizontal "(March 2006), which is incorporated herein by reference. Adjacent to the outlet of the preferred control valve, a check valve is preferably provided to provide an intermediate area or chamber open at atmospheric pressure. To insulate the flood valve 504, the riser assembly further preferably includes two ation valves disposed near the flood valve 504. Another diaphragm control valve 504 may be used in the 0502 riser assembly which are shown and described in US Patent 6,095,484 and 7,059,578 and US Patent Application No. 11 / 450,891.

[0236] In an alternative configuration, the riser assembly or control valve 504 can, include a modified diaphragm-style control valve such that it includes a separate chamber, i.e., a pneumatic chamber, to define an air or gas seal so that it is eliminated the need for the valve check separad. In the F1G.21 a demonstrative embodiment of a preferred control valve 710 is shown. The valve 710 includes a 0 valve body 712 through which fluid can flow in a controlled manner. More specifically, the control valve 710 provides a diaphragm-type hydraulic control valve to preferably control the release and mixing of a first volume of fluid having a first fluid pressure, such as for example a first water, with a second volume of fluid at a second fluid pressure, such as, for example, compressed gas contained in a pipe network. Consequently, the control valve 710 can provide for fluid control between liquids, gases or similar combinations.

[0237] The valve body 712 is preferably constructed of two parts: (i) a cover portion 712a and (ii) a lower body portion 712b; "the lower body" is used as a reference theme for a portion of the valve body 712 coupled to the cover portion 712a when the control valve is fully assembled. Preferably, the valve body 712 and more specifically the lower body portion 712b includes an inlet 714 and an outlet 716.

[0238] Valve body 712 also includes a drain 718 for diverting the first fluid entering valve 710 through inlet 714 outside the valve body. The valve body 712 further preferably includes an inlet opening 720 for introducing the second fluid into the body 712 for unloading through the outlet 716. The control valve 710 also includes a port 722. The port 722 can provide means for a alarm system for monitoring the valve by some desired fluid communication from and / or between the inlet 714 and the outlet 716. For example, the port 722 can be used to provide an alarm port to the valve 710 such that individually may be alerted as by some gas or liquid leakage from valve body 712. In particular, port 722 may be coupled to a flow meter and a valve arrangement to detect the escape of fluid or gas in the body of the valve body. valve. The port 722 is preferably open to the atmosphere and in communication with an intermediate chamber 724d disposed between the inlet 714 and the outlet 716. ·

[0239] The cover 712a and the lower body 712b each include an internal surface such that when the cover and the lower body portion 712a and 712b are connected, the internal surface further defines a camera 724. The camera 724 is in communication with the inlet 714 and the outlet 716, it further defines a passage through which a fluid, such as water, can flow. Arranged within the chamber 724 is a flexible pre-elastomeric flexible member 800 for controlling the flow of fluid through the valve body 712. The elastomeric member 800 is more preferably a diaphragm member configured to provide selective communication between the inlet 714 and the outlet 716. Consequently, the diaphragm has at least two positions within the chamber 724: (i) a more closed or sealed lowermost position and (i) a more upper or fully open position. In the most closed or sealed lowermost position, the diaphragm 800 fits a seat member 726 constructed or formed as an internal rib or medial flange within the internal surface of the valve body 172 thus sealing the communication between the inlet 714 and the outlet 716. With the diaphragm 800 in the closed position, the diaphragm 800 preferably divides the chamber 724 into the three regions or sub-chambers 724a, 724b and 724c. More specifically formed within the diaphragm member 800 is closed position is a first fluid supply or inlet chamber 724a in communication with the inlet 714, a second fluid supply or outlet chamber 724b in communication with the outlet 716 and a 724c diaphragm camera. The cover 712a preferably includes a central opening 713 for introducing a regulating fluid into the diaphragm chamber 724c to urge and hold the diaphragm member 800 in the closed position.

[0240] In the operation of the control valve 80.0., The f-lightening fluid can be relieved from the diaphragm chamber 724c in preferably a controlled manner, electrically or mechanically, to drive the diaphragm member 800 to the fully open or actuated position, in which the diaphragm member 800 is separated from the seat member 726 thereby allowing the flow of fluid between the inlet 714 and the outlet 716. The diaphragm member 800 includes a top surface 802 and a lower surface 804, each of the areas of the upper and lower surface 802 and 804 are generally sufficient in size to seal the communication of the inlet and outlet chambers 824a and 824b of the diaphragm chamber 824c. The upper surface 802 preferably includes a centralized or inner radially extending rigid element therefrom are one or more tangential rib members 806. The tangential ribs 806 and inner ring are preferably configured to drive the diaphragm 800 from the upper sealing position. , for example, the application of a regulating fluid to the upper surface 802 of the diaphragm member 800. Additionally, the diaphragm 800 preferably includes an outer elastomeric ring element 808 to further drive the diaphragm member 800 to the closed position. The preferably angled surface outlet of the flexible ring member 808 engages and provides contact pressure with a portion of the valve body 712 such as, for example, the inner surface of the cover 712a.

[0241] In its closed position, the lower surface 804 of the diaphragm member 800 preferably defines a centrally bulged portion 810 thereby preferably has a substantially convex surface, and more preferably a spherical convex surface, with respect to the seat member 726 for -Light the input and output cameras 724a and 724b. The lower surface 804 of the diaphragm member 800 further preferably includes a pair of elongated seal elements or projections 814a, 814b to form a sealed engagement with the seat member 726 of the valve body 712. The seal elements 814a, 814b are configured to engage in the seat member 726 of the valve body 712 when the diaphragm is in the closed position such as to seal the communication between the inlet 714 and the outlet 716 and more specifically seal the communication between the inlet chamber 724a and the chamber output 724b. In addition, the seal members 714a and 714b are engaged in the seat member 726 such that the channel cooperates with the seal member 26 to form an intermediate chamber 724d in a manner described in greater detail below.

[0242] Extending lengthwise in a direction from the entry to the exit are bifurcation members or support 728a, 728b for supporting the diaphragm member 800. The seat member 726 extends perpendicularly in the 'entry-exit direction for effectively dividing the chamber 724 into ..: the lower valve body 712b within the preferably preferably spaced space and preferably of equal size as the sub-chamber of the inlet chamber 724a and the outlet chamber 724b. Further, the elongation of the seat member 726 preferably defines a curvilinear surface or these have a length to reflect the convex surface of the lower surface 804 of the diaphragm 800. The further extension along the length of the preferred seat member 726 is a slot formed or formed on the surface of the seat member 726. The slot divides the mating surface of the seat member 726 preferably uniformly along the length of the seat member. When the diaphragm member 800 is in the closed position, the elongated seal members 814a, 814b fit into the divided surface of the seat member 726. In the coupling of the sealing elements 814a, 814b with the coupling surfaces. 726a, 726b of the seat member 726 places the channel of the diaphragm 800 in communication with the slot.

[0243] The seat member 726 is preferably formed with a central base member 732 which further preferably separates the inlet and outlet chambers 724a, 724b and deflects the fluid in a direction between the diaphragm 800 and the surfaces of the diaphragm. coupling of the seat element 726a, 726b. The port 722 is preferably constructed from one or more voids formed in the base element 732. Preferably, < the port 722 includes a first cylindrical portion 722a in communication with a second cylindrical portion 722b each formed in the base member 732. The port 722 preferably intersects and communicates with the groove of the seat member 726, and where the diaphragm member 800 is in the closed position, the port 722 is preferably further in sealed engagement with the chamber formed in the diaphragm member 800.

[0244] The communication between the diaphragm channel, the groove of the seat member and the port 722 is preferably limited by the sealed engagement of the seal elements 814a, 814b with the surfaces of the seat member 726a, 726b, thereby preferably define the fourth intermediate chambers 724d. The intermediate chamber 724d is preferably open to the atmosphere thereby defining a fluid seat, preferably an air seat for separating the inlet and outlet chambers 724a, 724b. With such an air seat between the inlet and outlet chambers 724a, 724b allows each of the inlet and outlet chambers to be filled and pressurized while avoiding the lack of sealed engagement between the sealing element 814 and the element. 726. As a result, the preferred diaphragm valve 710 can eliminate the need for a downstream check valve. More specifically, because each seal element 814 is driven by a fluid force in only one element of the element and preferably by atmospheric pressure in the other, the fluid pressure in the diaphragm chamber 724c is effective to maintain the coupling of the fluid. seal between the sealing elements 814 and the seat element 726 during the pressurization of the internal and external chambers 724a and 724b.

[0245] The control valve 710 and the riser assembly 502 which in their connection may be placed in service by preferably bringing the valve 710 to the normally closed position and subsequently bringing the inlet chamber 724a and the outlet chamber 724b to the pressure of operation. In a preferred installation, the primary source of fluid is initially isolated from the inlet chamber 724a via a closing control valve such as, for example, a manual control valve located upstream of the inlet 714. The secondary fluid source is preferably at the isolated start of the outlet chamber 724b by the action of a closing control valve located upstream of the inlet opening 720. A regulating fluid, such as source water. The fluid primary is then preferably introduced into the diaphragm chamber 724c through the central opening 713 in the cover 712a. The fluid is continuously introduced into the chamber 724c until the fluid exerts enough pressure P1 to bring the diaphragm member 800 to the closed position in which the lower surface 804 engages the seat member 726 and the sealing elements 814a, 814b forming a sealed coupling on the seat 726.e.e.

[0246] With the diaphragm element 800 in the squeezed position, the inlet and outlet chambers 724a, 724b can be respectively pressurized by the primary and secondary fluids. More specifically, the shut-off valve isolates the primary fluid that can be opened such as to introduce fluid through the inlet 14 and into the chamber 724a to preferably reach a static pressure P2. The compressed gas isolation shut-off valve can be opened to introduce the secondary fluid through the inlet opening 720 to pressurize the outlet chamber 724b and the normally closed system coupled to the outlet 716 of the control valve 710 to achieve a static pressure P3.

[0247] The presence of the intermediate chamber 724d separates the input and output chambers 724a, 724b and which is normally open to the atmosphere, maintaining the pressure P2 of the primary fluid on one side of the sealing element 814a and the pressure P3 of the secondary fluid on one side of the other sealing element 814b. Thus, the diaphragm element 800 and its sealing elements 814a, 814b are configured in such a way as to maintain the sealed coupling with the seat member 726 under the influence of the pressure P1 of the diaphragm chamber. Consequently, the upper and lower surface areas of the diaphragm are preferably dimensioned such that the pressure P1 is large enough to provide a closing force on the upper surface of the diaphragm member 800 such as to overcome the pressures P2, P3e the primary and secondary fluids by driving the diaphragm element 800 to the open position. However, preferably the ratio of the diaphragm pressure for any of the pressures P 1: P 2 of the primary fluid or of the P: P 3 pressures of the secondary fluid is minimized such that the valve 710 maintains a rapid opening response, is say, a low drop ratio, to release the fluid from the inlet chamber when necessary. More preferably, every 1 psi of pressure P1 of the day-fragment is at least effective to block 1.2 psi of the pressure P2 of the primary fluid.

[0248] The dry portion 514 of the system 500 preferably includes a pipe network having a main pipe and a more ramified pipe extended from the main pipe to be disposed on stored articles. The dried portion 514 of the system 5005 is further preferably maintained in its dry state by a source of pressurized air 516 for the dry portion 514. Spaced along the branch pipe are qualified sprinklers to protect only the roof in the occupation of storage, as for example, the preferred sprayer 320. Preferably, the pipe network and the sprinklers are disposed above the articles such as to define a "minimum space, no sprayers to be stored and more preferably to the minimum space, no deflectors to storage of water. approximately thirty-six inches. Where the sprinklers 320 are vertical or upright sprinklers, the sprinklers 320 are preferably mounted with respect to the ceiling such that the sprinklers define a deflector-to-ceiling distance of approximately seven inches (7 inches). Alternatively, the roof deflector distance can be based on known deflector to ceiling spacings for existing sprinklers, such as a large drip sprayer as provided by Tyco Fire &; Building Products

[0249] The dry portion 514 may include one or more crossed pipes such that they define a triple configuration or more preferably a curved configuration. The dry portion is preferably configured with a hydraulic design area made of approximately twenty-five sprinklers. Accordingly, the inventors have discovered a hydraulic design area for a ceiling-only sprinkler system. The sprayer sprinkler spacing will be in a range of a minimum of about eight feet to a maximum of about 12 feet of unobstructed construction, and more preferably about ten feet of obstructed constructions. Consequently, the dry portion 514 is configured with a smaller hydraulic design area than the current dry fire protection systems under NFPA 13 | (2002,). Preferably, the dry portion, .514 is configured such that it defines a coverage area on a per sprayer base that ranges from about eighty square feet (80 square feet) to about one hundred square feet (100 square feet).

[0250] As described above, the surrounding and flood effect is intended to depend on a delay in a designed or controlled fluid release by following one or more thermally operated sprinklers initially to allow a fire event to grow and additional sprinklers thermally activated to form an area of operation of sprinklers to combat and overcome the fire event. The fluid release from the wet portion 512 for the dry portion 514 is controlled by the action of a control valve 506. For the control control of the control valve, the system 500 preferably includes a release control panel 518. to energize the solenoid valve 505 to operate the solenoid valve. Alternatively, the control valve can be controlled in a wired or otherwise configured manner such that the control valve is normally closed by an energized solenoid valve and therefore actuated by the de-energizing signal to the solenoid valve. The system 5005 can be configured as a dry protection system and is more preferably configured as a dual safety device preaction system based in part on a detection of a drop in air pressure in the dry portion 514. To ensure that the solenoid valve 505 is rapidly released in response to a reduction in pressure, the system 5005 further preferably includes an accelerator device 517 to reduce the operating time of the control valve in a protection system. The throttle device 517 is preferably configured to detect a small deviation fluctuation in the air pressure of the dry portion 514 to alert the release panel 518 and energize the solenoid valve 505. In addition, the accelerator device 517 may be a projection device. -grammable and carry out a minimum delay period of fluid release. A preferred embodiment of the accelerator device is the Electronic QRS Accelerator by Tyco Fire an Building Products as shown and described in the Tyco TFP1100 data sheet entitled "QRS model electronic accelerator (rapid opening device) for dry pipe or protection systems. "(May 2006). Other accelerator devices can be used by providing that the accelerator device is compatible with the presure source and / or the release control panel when it is put into operation.

[0251] Where system 500 is preferably configured as a double security device pre-action system, the release control panel 518 may be configured to communicate with one or more fire detectors 520 to ensure that the security panel 518 control energize the 505 solenoid valve to actuate the control valve 520. < C, on, s, accordingly, one or more fire detectors 520 are preferably spaced from sprinklers 320 through storage occupancy such that the fire detector operates before the sprinkler in a fire event. The detector 520 can be one of smoke detector, heat or other type capable of detecting the presence of fire provided by the detector 520 that can generate a signal to be used by the release control panel 518 to energize the solenoid valve to operate the control valve 504. The system can additionally include manual, mechanical or electrical starting stations 522, 524 capable of setting conditions on panel 518 to activate solenoid valve 505 and operate control valve 504 for fluid release. Accordingly, the control panel 518 is configured as a device capable of receiving information from sensors, data, or signals with respect to the system 5005 and / or storage occupancy that are processed by way of a relay, logic controls, a unit of processing control or another module for sending an activation signal to operate the control valve 504 such as, for example, energizing the solenoid valve 505.

[0252] With respect to the preferred sprinkler supply for use in dry ceiling-only fire protection systems or alternatively in supplying the system by itself, the preferred device or method of use also provides design criteria for configuring the sprinklers and / or system for performing a sprinkler operation area having a surrounding and drowning configuration to combat a fire event in a storage occupation. A preferred roof-only sprinkler system configured to combat a game event with a surrounding and flood configuration, such as, for example, system 5005 described above includes a sprinkler arrangement relative to a riser coupling to define one or more more distant hydraulic sprinklers or 521 demand sprinklers and further defines one or more hydraulically closed sprinklers or lower demand sprinklers 523. Preferably, the design criteria provide for minimum and maximum delay periods of fluid release by the system to respectively locate the sprinklers 521 hydraulics and hydraulically closed sprinklers 523. The minimum and maximum designed fluid release delay periods are configured to ensure that each sprinkler in the 5005 system has a designed fluid release delay period within the delay periods minimum and maximum release Fluid ion to allow the growth of fire in the presence of a fire event to thermally trigger a sufficient number of sprinklers to form an area of operation of sprinklers to combat the fire event.

[0253] Because a roof-only dry fire protection system is hydraulically configured with a hydraulic design area and operating pressures designed for a given storage occupancy, item classification, storage height, minimum delay periods and maximum fluid release are preferably depending on the hydraulic configuration, the roof height of the occupation, the storage height. Additionally or alternatively, the periods of minimum and maximum delay of fluid release can be further configured as a function of the storage configuration, spacing between sprinklers to storage and / or distance from sprinklers to ceiling.

[0254] E I design criteria for maximum and minimum fluid release time can be manifested in a database, data table and / or display and search table. For example, the fluid release design tables generated for Class II and Class III articles in a variety of storage and roof height for given design pressures and hydraulic design areas are provided below. Substantially similar data table configurations can be configured for other article classes.

[0255] Designed Fluid Release Lag Period Table - Class II

[0256] Designed Fluid Release Lag Period Table - Class III

[0257] The above table preferably provides the maximum delay period of fluid release for one or more hydraulically furthest sprinklers 521 in a system 500. More preferably the data in the table is configured such that the period of maximum delay of fluid release, is designed in the application of more than four sprinklers hydraulically further away. Even more preferably the table is configured to interactively verify that the fluid release is properly delayed in the operation time of the sprayer. For example, when running a simulation of system operation, the four hydraulically furthest sprinklers are sequenced and in the absence of discharge fluid and more specifically, the absence of fluid discharge at the design pressure is verified in time. devaluation of the sprinkler. In this way, the simulation of the computer can verify that the fluid discharge with the designed pressure operation does not occur in the first hydraulically furthest sprayer in zero seconds.; that the fluid discharge with the designed pressure operation does not occur in the second hydraulically closed sprinkler three seconds later; that the discharge of fluid with the designed pressure operation does not occur in the third sprinkler hydraulically farthest in five to six seconds after the operation of the first, depending on the kind of articles; and that the fluid discharge with the designed pressure operation is not present in the fourth hydraulically farthest sprayer in seven to eight seconds after the first one acts, depending on the kind of articles. More preferably, the simulation verifies that no fluid discharge is effected with the designed pressure operation of any of the four sprinklers furthest away prior to or at the time of activation of the fourth hydraulically furthest sprayer.

[O 258] The minimum period of fluid release preferably has the minimum period of fluid release for the four hydraulically critical, closed sprinklers for the riser coupling. The data in the table show, in addition to the four minimum times of fluid release for the respective four hydraulically closed sprinklers. More preferably, the data in the table presents a sequence of operation of the sprinkler for the simulation of operation of the system and verifies that the fluid flow is properly delayed, that is, the fluid does not appear or unless it is discharged in the pressure of operation designed in the first hydraulically closed sprinkler in zero seconds; the fluid is not discharged at the operating pressure designed in the second most hydraulically closed sprinkler in three seconds after the activation of the first sprinkler; the fluid is not discharged at the designed operating pressure in the third most hydraulically closed sprinkler in five or six seconds after activation of the first sprinkler, depending on the kind of items, and the fluid is not discharged at the designed operating pressure in the operating pressure designed in the fourth most hydraulically closed sprinkler seven or eight seconds after the activation of the first sprinkler depending on the kind of items. More preferably, the simulation verifies that the fluid not discharged at the design operating pressure of any of the four hydraulically closed sprinklers prior to or at the time of activation of the four hydraulically closed sprinkler.

[0259] In the preferred embodiment of the data table, the periods of maximum and minimum delay of fluid release are preferably a function of the sprinkler to storage separation. Preferred modalities of the data table and the system shown and described in the TFPA370 data sheet of Tyco Fire an Building • Products entitled "QUELL® Sistemase-Production and Dry Tubing Alternative for Rack Disposal Sprinklers" (August 2006 Rev. A ), which is fully incorporated as a reference. In FIG. 17a is shown in a preferred flow chart of an operating method for a preferred system configured to combat a fire event with a surrounding affect and flood.

[0260] Accordingly, a preferred data table includes a first data array characterizing storage occupancy, a second data array characterizing a sprayer, a third data array identifying a hydraulic design area as a function of the Reimer and second array of data, and a four data array that identifies a period of maximum delay of fluid release and a minimum delay period of fluid release each is a function of the first, second and third data arrays. The data table set is configured as a display table where one of the first, second and third arrays determines the four data array. Alternatively, the database is simplified such as to present a specified maximum delay period of fluid release to be incorporated within a dry ceiling only system to combat a fire in a storage occupation with sprinkler operation areas. which have a surrounding and flood configuration around the fire event for a given ceiling height, storage height, and / or classification of items. The preferred simplified database can be represented in a sprayer data sheet by providing a simple fluid release delay period that provides a surrounding fire protection coverage. and flood for one or more classified items and storage configuration stored in an occupation that has a maximum ceiling height defined for a defined maximum storage height. For example, an illustrative form of a simplified data sheet is Engineering Bulletin FM 01-06 (February 20, 2006) which is incorporated completely as a reference. The simplified data sheet illustrated provides for a maximum delay period of thirty seconds (30 seconds) of simple fluid release for the protection of Class I and II articles for thirty-five feet (35 feet) in a storage occupation. 40 feet (40 feet) using sprinklers of specific application mode with K value of 16.8. The data sheet further preferably specifies that the period of fluid release delay may be experienced in the four hydraulically furthest sprinklers such that they produce a surrounding and flood effect.

[0261] The given sprinkler actuation data as described above, the system design criteria, and the known metric for characterized piping systems and pipe components, configurations, fire protection systems, a fire protection configuration to control an event of -go, with an area of operation of sprinklers in a surrounding and flood configuration can be modeled in the modeling system / fluid simulation program. The sprinkler system and its sprinklers can be modeled and the sprinkler system can be sequenced to interactively design a system capable of releasing fluid according to the designed fluid release periods. For example, a ceiling-only dry sprinkler system configured to control a fire event with a surrounding and flood configuration that can be modeled in a computer package as described in the PCT Patent application filed on October 3, 2006. , entitled "System and Method for Evaluation and Method for Evaluation of Fluid Flow in a Pipe System" having label number S-FB-00091 WO (73434-029 WO) which is incorporated in its entirety as a reference. The hydraulically closed and hydraulically further sprinkler activations can be sequenced in a manner preferably as provided in the data table as shown above to verify that the fluid release occurs accordingly.

[0262] Alternatively for the design, manufacture and / or qualification of a dry ceiling sprinkler system that has a surrounding response and flood to fire, or some other subsystem or components, the process of obtaining the preferred system or any of its qualified components can be linked, for example, acquisition of such system, subsystem or component. The acquisition of qualified sprinklers may also include receiving a qualified sprinkler 320, a preferred dry sprinkler system 500 or the designs and methods of such systems as described above, for example, a supplier or manufacturer in the course of a business transaction. to business, through a chain of supply relationship such as between, for example, a manufacturer or supplier, between a manufacturer and a retail provider, or between a supplier and a contractor / installer. Alternatively acquisitions the system and / or its components can be carried out through a contractual arrangement, for example, a contractor / installer and a warehouse owner / operator, owner transactions such as, for example, sales agreement between seller and buyer, or lease agreement between landlord and tenant.

[0263] Additionally, the preferred process of providing a method of fire protection may include the distribution of the dry sprinkler system preferred only to roof with a surrounding thermal and flood response, its subsystems, components and / or its design methods, configuration and use in connection with the acquisition transaction as described above. The distribution of the system, subsystems and / or components and / or their associated methods may be included in the process of packaging, inventory or storage and / or boarding of the system, subsystems, components and / or their associated design methods, configuration. I use. The shipment may include individual or volume transport of sprinklers 20 by air, land or water. The distribution channels of preferred products and services may include those schematically shown, for example, in FIG. 20, illustrating how preferred preferred systems, subsystems, components and preferred method of fire protection can be transferred from one part to another. For example, the preferred sprinkler design for a qualified sprinkler is used in roof-only dry sprinklers for occupied warehouses configured to control a fire event with a surrounding and flood configuration that can be distributed from a diester to a manufacturer. . System design research method for a preferred sprinkler system employs the surrounding and flood effect that can be transferred from a manufacturer to a contractor / installer.

[0264] In a preferred aspect of the distribution process, the process may further include publication of the preferred sprinkler systems having a surrounding and flood response configuration, subsystems, associated components and / or sprinklers, methods and Fire protection application. For example, 320 sprinklers can be published in a catalog by one of the vendors offered by one of a manufacturer and / or equipment supplier.The catalog can be a hard copy medium- * - such as catalog paper or brochures, or alternatively, the catalog may be in an electronic format, for example, the catalog may be an online catalog available to a prospective buyer or users of a network such as, for example, a LAN, WAN or Internet.

[0265] Figure 18 shows a computer processing device 600 having a central processing unit 610 for executing the functions stored in the memory with a storage device 611, and also for processing executed data or running simulations or calculating solutions. The processing unit and the storage device can be configured to store, for example, a fire test data base to construct a database of design criteria for configuring and designing sprinkler systems employing a period of delay of fluid release to generate a surrounding and drowning effect. In addition, the device 600 can execute function calculations such as, for example, solving for a sprinkler activation time and fluid distribution times of a built-in sprinkler system model. The processing device 600 may further include a data entry device 612, such as, for example, a computer keyboard and a display device, such as, for example, a computer monitor to perform the process. The processing device 600 may be manifested as a workstation, desktop computer, portable computer, portable device, or network servers.

[0266] One or more computer processing devices 600a-600h may be in a network of computers such as a LAN, WAN, or Internet as shown, for example as seen, in FIG. 19 for the communication of the effect of distribution of preferred fire protection products and services associated with fire control with a surrounding and flood effect. Accordingly, a system and method are preferably provided for transferring fire protection systems, subsystems, system components and / or associated methods employing the surrounding and flood effect, such as, for example, a sprinkler 320 for use in a system of sprinklers only for preferred roof to protect a busy warehouse. The transfer may occur between a first fraction using a first computer processing device 600b and a second fraction using a second computer processing device 600c. The method preferably includes providing a sprinkler qualified for use in a roof-only sprinkler system for a busy warehouse with a roof height of approximately forty-five feet having items stored at approximately forty feet and delivering the qualified sprinkler a response to a requirement for a sprinkler to be used in a roof-only protection system.

[0267] The qualified sprinkler offer preferably includes publishing the qualified sprinkler on at least one of: a paper publication and an online publication. In addition, the online publication preferably includes arranging and arranging data on the qualified sprayer in a computer processing device such as, for example, a server 600a and its memory storage device 612a, preferably integrated into the network for communication with other computer processing devices such as for example, a 600h laptop, a 60 Of cell phone, a 600e personal digital assistant, or a 600d tablet with access to the publication to receive the sprayer distribution and the associated data array. The organization may also include the data array configuration to include a list of authorized elements, a data element of the K factor, a data element related to the temperature, and a sprinkler configuration data element. Configuring the data arrangement preferably includes configuring the authorized elements in the list, for example, having the UL data, configuration data element of the factor that is close to seventeen, configuration of the data element of the temperature value that is around of 280 ° F, and configuring the sprinkler configuration data element upright. Organizing a data array can also include parameter identification for the dry ceiling sprinkler system only, the parameters include: a hydraulic design area that includes a sprinkler sprayer spacing, a maximum delay period of fluid release for a sprinkler hydraulically further away and a minimum delay period of fluid release for the hydraulically closed sprinkler.

[0268] The preferred distribution process may also include the distribution of a method for designing a fire protection system for a surrounding and flood effect. The distribution of the method may include publication of the database of the design criteria as an electronic data sheet, such as, for example, at least one of a: .html file, .pdf, or editable text file. . The database may further include, in addition to the data elements and design parameters described above, another data arrangement that identifies an uplink to be used with the sprayer of the first data array, and also a sixth data array that identifies a piping system for coupling the control valve of the fifth data array for the sprayer of the first data array.

[0269] An end user or intermediary of fire protection products and services may access a server or workstation by a provider of such products or services in a network as shown in FIG. 19 for downloading, uploading, accessing, or interacting with a distributed component or system brochure, ap icating a program, or design criteria, to practice, instruct, implement, or purchase the surrounding and flood approach for protection of fire and its associated products. For example, a system designer or other intermediate user may access the product data sheets for a preferred roof-only fire protection system configured to control a fire event in a surrounding and flood response, such as for example TFP370 (August 2006 Rev. A.) in an order to acquire or configure such sprinkler system to respond to a fire event with a surrounding and flood configuration. In addition, a designer can download or upload data tables for periods of fluid release delay, as described above, and also use or license simulation programs such as, for example, described in the PCT patent application filed on October 3, 2006 entitled "System and method for the evaluation of fluid flow in a pipe system" that has a label number S-FB-00091 WP (73434-029WO), to interactively design a fire protection system that has an effect surrounding and flood.

[0270] When the distribution process provided for publication of the dry only sprinkler system has a surrounding flood and flood response configuration, its subsystems and its associated methods in a hard copy format, the distribution process may include In addition, the distribution of information cataloged with the product or service that is distributed. For example, a paper copy of the data sheet for a sprinkler 320 may include in the packaging for the sprinkler 320 providing information to the user of the installation or configuration. Alternatively, a system data sheet, such as for example TFPA370 (August 2006 Rev. A.) may be provided with a purchase of a preferred system upload link to support and implement the surrounding and flood response configuration. The hard copy data sheet preferably includes the necessary data tables and the hydraulic design criteria to assist a designer an installer or the end user to configure a sprinkler system for occupied warehouses occupying the surrounding and flood effect.

[0271] Accordingly, applicants may be provided with an approach to on the basis of fire protection to control a fire event with a surrounding and flood effect. This approach can be applied in systems, subsystems, system components, and design methodologies for the implementation of such systems, subsystems and components. Although the present invention has been disclosed with reference to certain modalities, numerous modifications, alterations and changes in the embodiments described are possible to be made upon discovering the sphere and field of the present invention, as defined in the appended claims. Accordingly, it is intended that the present invention is not limited to the described modalities, but that the entire field is defined by the language of the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims (1)

1. CLAIMS 1. - A dry ceiling sprinkler system for storage occupancy protection comprising: A pipe network including a wet portion and a dry portion connected to the wet portion, the dry portion is configured to respond to a fire with at least a first activated sprinkler; and A period of mandatory fluid release delay to release a fluid from the dry portion to the at least one first activated sprinkler, the period of delay is of sufficient duration such that the dry portion also responds to fire with at least one second activated sprinkler, the at least one first and the at least one second activated sprinklers define an area of operation of ro-ciadores sufficient to surround and drown a fire event. 2. - The ceiling-only dry sprinkler system of claim 1, wherein the at least one first activated sprinkler includes a plurality of sprinklers initially activated in response to fire. 3. - The ceiling-only dry sprinkler system of claim 2, wherein the plurality of activated sprinklers are thermally activated in a defined sequence. 4. - The ceiling-only dry sprinkler system of claim 1, wherein the system includes a first water control valve for providing a controlled separation between the wet portion and the dry portion, and the dry portion includes at least one hydraulically remote sprayer and at least one hydraulically closed sprinkler with respect to the first water control valve. 5. - The ceiling-only dry sprinkler system of claim 4, wherein the period of mandatory fluid release delay defines a period of minimum delay of fluid release and a period of maximum delay of fluid release, the period of minimum delay of fluid release defines the time for the. fluid release from the control valve to the at least one hydraulically closed sprinkler, the maximum fluid release delay period defines the fluid release time from the control valve to the at least one hydraulically closed sprinkler . 6. - The roof-only dry sprinkler system of claim 5, wherein the maximum delay period of fluid release is of sufficient duration to allow thermal activation of a first plurality of sprinklers such as to form a maximum operating area of sprinklers in response to fire with a surrounding and flood effect, and the minimum delay period of fluid release is of sufficient duration to allow thermal activation of a second plurality of sprinklers such as to form a minimum operating area of sprinklers in response to fire with a surrounding and flood effect. 7. - The ceiling-only dry sprinkler system according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the dry portion includes a plurality of sprinklers having a K-factor of approximately 11 or greater and an operating pressure of approximately 15 psi. or greater, the dry portion is disposed on a product comprising at least one of (i) Class I-III, Group A, Group B or Group C with a storage height greater than twenty-five feet; and (i i) Class IV with a storage height greater than twenty-two feet. 8. - The roof-only dry sprinkler system of claim 7, wherein the plurality of sprinklers have a factor in the range of about 11 to about 36. 9. - The ceiling-only dry sprinkler system of claim 8, wherein the K-factor is approximately 17. 10. - The dry ceiling sprinkler system of claim 9, wherein the K factor is approximately 16.8. 11. - The ceiling-only dry sprinkler system according to one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the range of operating pressure is from about 15 psi. Approximately 60 psi. 12. - The ceiling-only dry sprinkler system of claim 11, wherein the range of the operating pressure is from about 15 pis. at approximately 45 psi. 13. - The roof-only dry sprinkler system of claim 12, wherein the operating pressure range is from about 20 psi. at approximately 35 psi. 14. - The roof-only dry sprinkler system of claim 13, wherein the operating pressure range is from about 22 psi. at approximately 30 psi. 15. - The dry ceiling sprinkler system according to one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the area of operation of the sprinklers is defined in approximately ten minutes following the activation of the at least the first activated sprinkler. 16. - The ceiling-only sprinkler system of claim 15, wherein the area of operation of the sprinklers is defined in approximately eight minutes after activation by at least. first activated sprayer. 17. The ceiling-only dry sprinkler system of claim 16, wherein the area of operation of the sprinklers is defined in about five minutes after the activation of the at least the first activated sprinkler. 18. - A dry ceiling sprinkler system for storage occupancy protection comprising: A wet portion; and A dry portion connected to the wet portion configured to respond to an event, fire, the dry portion includes a pipe network with a plurality of activated sprinklers to define a sprinkler operating area configured to encircle and drown the event of fire, the plurality of activated sprinklers include at least one first activated sprinkler, the plurality of sprinklers of the sprinkler operating area are activated within "a predetermined period of time following the first activated sprinkler. 19. - The roof-only dry sprinkler system of claim 18, wherein the predetermined time period is within about ten minutes. 20. - The roof-only dry sprinkler system of claim 19, wherein the predetermined time period is within about eight minutes. 21. - The ceiling-only dry sprinkler system of claim 20, wherein the predetermined time period is within approximately five minutes. 22. - The ceiling-only dry sprinkler system of claim 18, wherein the dry portion is disposed on a product comprising at least one of (i) Class I-III, Group A, Group B or Group C with a height of storage greater than twenty-five feet; and (ii) Class IV with a storage height greater than twenty-two feet. 23. - The ceiling-only dry sprinkler system of claim 18, wherein the plurality of sprinklers have a K-factor of approximately 11 or greater. 24. The dry ceiling-only sprinkler system of claim 23, wherein the plurality of sprinklers have a K-factor in the range of about 11 to about 36. 25. - The ceiling-only dry sprinkler system of claim 24, wherein the K-factor is approximately 17. 26. - The ceiling-only dry sprinkler system of claim 25, wherein the K-factor is approximately 16.8. 27. The sprinkler system dry only for roofing according to one of claims 18 to 26, wherein the plurality of sprinklers have an operating pressure in the range of about 15 psi. at approximately 60 psi. 28. - The dry ceiling sprinkler system of the re-vindication 27, where the operating pressure range is from about 15 pis. at approximately 45 psi. 29. - The ceiling-only dry sprinkler system of claim 28, wherein the operating pressure range is from about 20 psi. at approximately 35 psi. 30. - The roof-only dry sprinkler system of claim 29, wherein the operating pressure range is from about 22 psi. at approximately 30 psi. 31. - A dry ceiling sprinkler system for storage occupancy protection having a ceiling height and configured to store a product of a given classification and storage height, the system comprising: A wet portion including a fluid supply; A dry portion that includes a network of intercooled sprinklers by a plurality of tubes, each sprinkler has an operating pressure, the dry portion is connected to the wet portion such as to define at least one sprinkler hydraulically remote; and A hydraulic design area defined by a plurality of sprinklers in the dry portion including the at least one hydraulically remote sprinkler, the hydraulic design area is configured to respond to a fire event with a surrounding and flood effect. 32. - The ceiling-only dry sprinkler system of claim 31, wherein the hydraulic design area is smaller than a design-hydraulic area as specified by, NFPA-13 (2002) for the given ceiling height, product class and storage height. 33. - The ceiling-only dry sprinkler system of claim 32, wherein the hydraulic design area is smaller than a hydraulic design area as specified by NFPA-13 (2002) for a dry system designed to protect the given roof height , product class and storage height. 34. - The dry sprinkler system only for ceiling according to one of claims 31 to 33, wherein the hydraulic design area is defined by a period of mandatory fluid release delay, the period of fluid release delay Mandatory is defined by the lapse of time to release the fluid from the dry portion to at least one sprinkler hydraulically removed at operating pressure. 35. - The ceiling-only dry sprinkler system of claim 31, wherein the ceiling height is not greater than 45 feet, the class of product is one of Calse I, II and III, and the storage height is up to around 40 feet; The hydraulic design area of the system is less than approximately 2500 square feet. 36. - The roof-only dry sprinkler system of claim 31, wherein where the ceiling height is not greater than 30 feet, the class of product is Group A plastics and the storage height is up to about 20 feet; The hydraulic design area of the system is less than approximately 2500 square feet. 37. - The ceiling-only dry sprinkler system of claim 31, wherein the dry portion is disposed on the product comprising at least one of (i) Class I-111, Group A, Group B or Group C with a height of storage greater than twenty-five feet; and (ii) Class IV with a storage height greater than twenty-two feet. 38. - The ceiling-only dry sprinkler system of claim 37, wherein the plurality of sprinklers have a factor of approximately 11 or greater 39. - The ceiling-only dry sprinkler system of claim 38, wherein the plurality of sprinklers have a K-factor in the range of about 11 to about 36. 40. - The ceiling-only dry sprinkler system of claim 39, wherein the K-factor is approximately 17. 41. - The ceiling-only sprinkler system of the re-vindication 40, where the K-factor is approximately 16.8. 42. - The ceiling-only dry sprinkler system according to one of claims 37 to 41, wherein the plurality of sprinklers have an operating pressure in the range of about 15 psi. at approximately 60 psi. 43. - The roof-only dry sprinkler system of claim 42, wherein the range of the operating pressure is from about 15 pis. at approximately 45 psi. 44. - The roof-only dry sprinkler system of claim 43, wherein the operating pressure range is from about 20 psi. at approximately 35 psi. 45. - The ceiling-only dry sprinkler system of claim 44, wherein the operating pressure range is from about 22 psi. at approximately 30 psi. 46. - The dry ceiling sprinkler system according to one of claims 31 to 45, wherein all the sprinklers activated with the hydraulic design area to surround and smother the fire event are activated in ten minutes following a first spray activation in the hydraulic design area. · .. . .. 47. - The roof-only sprinkler system of claim 46, wherein the activated sprinklers are activated in eight minutes following the first spray activation. 48. The sprinkler system dry only for ceiling of the re-vindication 47, where activated sprinklers are activated within five minutes after the first activation of the sprinkler. 49. - A method to design a sprinkler system that has a pipe network including a wet portion and a dry portion, the system uses a surrounding and drowning effect to control a fire event, the methodology comprises: Determine a delay period of release of mandatory fluid to release fluid from the dry portion to at least one activated spray in the dry portion; and Define a sprinkler operating area as a function of the mandatory fluid release time such that the sprinkler operating area is of a sufficient size to encircle and stifle the fire event. 50. - The method of claim 49, wherein the determination of the fluid release delay period comprises determining a period of maximum delay of fluid release to release fluid to the hydraulically furthest sprinkler in the dry portion. 51. The method of claim 49, wherein determining the mandatory fluid release delay period comprises determining a minimum delay period of fluid release for a hydraulically more closed sprinkler in the dry portion. 52. - The method of any of claims 49 to 51, further comprising modeling the dry portion as a network of sprinklers having a stored product from under the network, modeling a fire scenario in the product and solving for the time of activation of the sprinklers for each sprinkler with respect to the ignition time. 53. - The method of claim 52, further comprising recording each of the activation times to generate a predictive activation profile of the sprinklers. 54. - The method of any of claims 49 to 53, wherein the definition of the area of operation of the. sprinklers also includes the definition of at least one of a maximum operating area of the sprinklers and a minimum operation area of the sprinklers for the system, the minimum and maximum operation areas of the sprinklers are able to control an event of fire with a surrounding effect and drowning. 55. - The method of claim 54, wherein the definition of the area of operation of the sprinklers is a function of the product to be protected by the system and the definition of at least the maximum operating area of the sprinklers no greater than a design area Hydraulics specified by NFPA-13 (2002) for the same protected product. 56. - The method of claim 55, wherein the definition of the area of operation of the sprinklers is a function of the product to be protected by the system and the definition of at least the maximum operating area of the sprinklers no greater than a design area. - Hydraulic unit specified by NFPA-13 (2002) for a dry system configured to protect the same product. 57. - The method of claim 54, wherein the definition of at least the minimum operating area includes defining a critical number of sprinklers to form the minimum operation area of sprinklers. 58. - The method of claim 57, wherein defining the critical number of sprinklers includes specifying a range for approximately two to four sprinklers. 59. - The method of any of claims 57 to 58, wherein the definition of the critical number of sprinklers is a function of the type of product to be protected by the system. 60. - The method of claim 49, wherein determining a mandatory fluid release delay period includes defining at least one of the minimum and maximum operating areas of the carriers in a predictive profile by showing the sprinkler activation number on the time in response to a heat release function. 61. - The method of claim 60, wherein the determination of the mandatory fluid release delay period includes defining a minimum delay period of fluid release for the time lapse between the first activation of the sprinkler for the activation time of the less on the critical number of sprinklers in the predictive profile. 62. - The method of claim 54, wherein the determination of a mandatory fluid release delay period includes defining a period of maximum delay of fluid release for the time lapse between the first activation of the sprayer and the time in that the number of activated sprinklers is equal to at least eighty percent of the maximum area of sprinkler operation. 63. - The method of claim 49, further comprising interactively designing a > sprinklers that have a wet portion and a dry portion that has a sprinkler network with a hydraulically far sprinkler and a hydraulically closed sprinkler with respect to the dry portion, where the interactive design includes designing the hydraulically far sprinkler to test a period of maximum delay of fluid release and design the hydraulically closed sprinkler to test a minimum delay period of fluid release by the system. 64. - The method of claim 63, wherein the interactive design further includes verifying that each sprinkler arranged between the hydraulically distant sprinkler and the hydraulically closed sprinkler proves a period of fluid release delay that is between the maximum delay period and minimum fluid release for the system. 65. - The method of claim 49, wherein the determination of the mandatory fluid release delay period includes determining the delay period as a function of the dry portion that is disposed on the product comprising at least one of (i) Class l-lll, Group A, Group B or Group C with a storage height greater than twenty-five feet; and (i) Class IV with a storage height greater than twenty-two feet. 66. - The method of claim 49, wherein the definition of the area of operation of sprinklers includes specifying the area, such as including a plurality of sprinklers having a K-factor of approximately 11 or greater. 67. - The method of claim 66, wherein the specification includes specifying the K factor as a range from about 11 to about 36. 68. - The method of claim 67, wherein the specification includes specifying the factor k to be around 17. 69. - The method of claim 68, wherein the specification includes specifying the factor k to be around 16.8. 70. - The method of any of claims 66 to 69, wherein the definition of the sprinkler operating area includes specifying the plurality of sprinklers to provide an operating pressure in the range of approximately 15 psi. at approximately 60 psi. 71. - The method of claim 70, wherein the specification includes specifying the operating pressure in the range of 15 pis. at approximately 45 psi. 72. - The method of claim 71, wherein the specification includes specifying the operating pressure in the 20 pis range. at approximately 35 psi. 73. - The method of claim 72, wherein the specification includes specifying the operating pressure in the range of 22 pis. at approximately 30 psi. 74. - A protection system for a storage occupation, the system comprises: A fluid source and a hydraulically classified dry portion, the dry portion includes a network of sprinklers having at least one hydraulically distant sprinkler with respect to the fluid source such as to define a period of mandatory fluid release delay, the mandatory fluid release delay period is so long to allow thermal activation of at least one sprinkler proximal to said at least one hydraulically far sprinkler in response to a fire event, the at least one hydraulically far sprayer and the at least one nearby sprayer define a sprayer operation area to encircle and smother the fire event. 75. - The protection system of claim 74, wherein the dry portion includes at least one hydraulically closed sprinkler with respect to the fluid source such as to define a second period of mandatory fluid release delay, period of delay of mandatory fluid release from the at least one hydraulically remote sprinkler defines the first mandatory fluid delay period, the second period of fluidiO release. mandatory is so extensive as to allow, the thermal activation of at least one sprinkler proximal to said at least one hydraulically closed sprinkler in response to a fire event, the at least one hydraulically closed sprinkler and the at least one sprinkler close to said at least one hydraulically closed sprinkler defines a second sprinkler operation area for circling and drowning the fire event, the sprinkler operating area defined by said at least hydraulically far sprinkler and the at least one sprinkler Close sprinkler for the at least one hydraulically far sprinkler defines a first sprinkler operation area. 76. - The system of claim 75, wherein the dry portion includes a plurality of sprinklers disposed between at least one of the hydraulically far and hydraulically closed sprinklers, each of the sprinklers of the plurality of sprinklers being disposed with respect to the source of the sprinkler. fluid to define a delay period of mandatory fluid release that has a duration between the first and second periods of delay mandatory fluid deliberation. 77. - The system of claim 74, wherein the dry portion includes at least one lift pipe and a plurality of pipes for connecting the plurality of sprinklers to the fluid source, the geometry of the at least one lift pipe and the plurality of tubas define the periods of delay of release of flow mandatory for each of the plurality of sprinklers. 78. - The system of claim 74, further comprising a rise assembly between the fluid source and the dry portion for controlling fluid communication between the fluid source and the sprinkler network, the riser assembly being preferably configured to delay the discharge of fluid from sprinklers within storage occupancy 79. - The system of claim 78, wherein in rise assembly includes a fire event detector. 80. - The system of claim 78, wherein the riser assembly further comprises a diaphragm control valve coupled to the detector, the detector controls the opening of the diaphragm control valve. 81. - The system of claim 78, wherein the riser assembly comprises a control panel, the control panel is configured to delay the discharge of fluid from the fluid source for the plurality of sprinklers for the defined period. 82. - The system of any of claims 74 to 81, wherein the sprinkler network has a value of the K factor of approximately ..! 1 o .. greatest and one operating pressure, approximately 15 psi. or greater, the beef is disposed on a product comprising at least one of (i) Class I-III, Group A, Group B or Group C with a storage height greater than twenty-five feet; and (ii) Class IV with a storage height greater than twenty-two feet. 83. - The system of claim 82, wherein the plurality of sprinklers has a factor value in the range of about 11 to about 36. 84. - The system of claim 83, wherein the factor is approximately 17. 85. - The system of claim 84, wherein the K factor is approximately 16.8. 86. - The system of any of claims 82 to 85, wherein the operating pressure is in the range of about 15 psi. at approximately 60 psi. 87. - The system of claim 86, wherein the range of the operating pressure is from about 15 pis. at approximately 45 psi. .88.- · The system of claim 87, wherein the operating pressure range is from about 20 psi. at approximately 35 psi. 89. - The system of claim 87, wherein the operating pressure range is from about 22 psi. Approximately 30 psi. 90. - The system of any of claims 74 to 89, wherein the area of operation of the sprinklers are defined within approximately ten minutes following activation of the at least one hydraulically remote sprinkler. 91. - The system of claim 90, wherein wherein the sprinkler operation area is defined within approximately eight minutes following activation of the at least one hydraulically far sprinkler. 92. - The system of claim 91, wherein the sprinkler operation area is defined within approximately five minutes following the activation of the at least one hydraulically spaced sprinkler. 93. - A roof-only fire protection system for the protection of a shelf storage, the storage of shelves has a class of products of one of (i) Class I-III ,. Group A, Group B or Group C with a storage height greater than twenty-five feet; and (ü) Class IV with a storage height greater than twenty-two feet, the system comprising: A fluid source and a plurality of sprinklers interconnected by a network of pipes and arranged under the roof and above a storage and coupled to the fluid source; A period of mandatory fluid release delay by each of the plurality of sprinklers in the roof-only dry system to control a fire event with a surrounding and flood configuration. 94. - The system of claim 93, wherein the fire protection system is a pre-drive system. 95. - The system of any of claims 93 to 94, wherein the period of mandatory fluid release delay comprises a period of maximum delay of fluid release and a minimum delay period of fluid release, each spray preferably having a period of delay of fluid release between the period of maximum delay of fluid release and the period of minimum delay of fluid release. 96. - The system of claim 96, wherein the plurality of sprinklers have a K-factor value in the range of approximately 11 or greater and an operating pressure of approximately 15 psi. or older. 97. - The system of claim 82, wherein the plurality of sprinklers have a value of the K factor in the range of about 11 to about 36. 98. - The system of claim 97, wherein the K factor is approximately 17. 99. - The system of claim 98, wherein the K factor is approximately 16.8. 100. - The system of any of claims 96 to 99, wherein the operating pressure is in the range of about 15 psi. at approximately 60 psi. 101. - The system of claim 100, wherein the range of the operating pressure is from about 15 pis. at approximately 45 psi. 102. - The system of claim 101, wherein the operating pressure range is from about 20 psi. at approximately 35 psi. 103. - The system of claim 102, wherein the operating pressure range is from about 22 psi. a., Approximately 30 psi. 104. - A dry sky sprinkler system for a storage occupation, the storage occupation defining a ceiling height, a storage configuration, and a defined storage height, the system comprises: A rise assembly that includes a valve control that has an exit and an entrance; A first pipe network and a second pipe network arranged on a riser assembly, the first pipe network defines a volume containing a gas in communication with the outlet of the control valve and also includes a plurality of sprinklers that has at least one sprinkler hydraulically remote with respect to the outlet of the valve and further has at least one sprinkler hydraulically closed with respect to the outlet of the valve; each of the plurality of sprinklers is preferably thermally classified to thermally activate from a powered state to an activated state to release the gas, the second pipe network has a wet pipe in communication with the inlet of the control valve to provide fluid in controlled form released from the first pipe network; A first period of mandatory fluid release delay defining the time of fluid release from the control valve to said at least one hydraulically remote sprinkler; and A second period of delay of release of Fugue, obligatorily defining the time of fluid release from the control valve to said at least one hydraulically closed sprinkler. 105. The system of claim 104, wherein the storage configuration is one of shelves, pallets, container boxes, and storage shelves. 106. - The system of claim 105, wherein the storage configuration is storage of shelves and the configuration is one of single row, double row and storage of multiple rows. 107. - The system of claim 104, wherein the gas is one of pressurized air or nitrogen. 108. - The system of claim 104, wherein the first pipe network comprises at least one of the curved configuration and one tree configuration configurations. 109. - The system of claim 104, wherein the plurality of sprinklers further define a designed area of sprinkler operation having a defined space between sprinkler to sprinkler and a defined operating pressure. 110. - The system of claim 104, wherein the plurality of sprinklers further define a hydraulic design area and a designed density, the design area includes the at least one hydraulically remote sprinkler. 111. - The system of claim 110, wherein the design area is defined by a grid of approximately twenty-five sprinklers or spacing from sprinkler to sprinkler in the range of about eight feet to about twelve feet. 112. - The system of claim 110, wherein the hydraulic design area is a function of at least one of ceiling height, storage configuration, storage height, product classification and / or clear height from sprinkler to storage . 113. - The system of claim 110, wherein the hydraulic design area is approximately 2000 square feet (2000 ft2). 114. - The system of claim 110, wherein the hydraulic design area is approximately 2000 square feet (2600 ft2). 115. The system of claim 104, wherein the hydraulically designed area of the system is designed such that a maximum area of operation of sprinklers is at least, such that a dry sprinkler system evaluated may be thirty percent larger than the hydraulically designed area of a wet system evaluated under NFPA 13 to protect the same storage configuration. 116. - The system of claim 104, wherein the ceiling height ranges from about thirty feet to about forty-five feet, and the storage height since it is from about twenty feet to about forty feet. 117. The system of claim 116, wherein the ceiling height is approximately equal to or less than 40 feet and the range of storage height ranges from approximately twenty feet to approximately thirty-five feet. 118. The system of claim 116, wherein the ceiling height is approximately equal to or less than thirty-five feet and the storage height ranges from about twenty feet to about thirty feet. 119. - The system of claim 116, wherein the ceiling height is approximately equal to thirty feet and the storage height is in the range of from about twenty feet to about twenty-five feet. ...... _ 120. - The system of claim 104, wherein the first and second mandatory fluid release delay periods are a function of at least the ceiling height and storage height, such that when the ceiling height is in the range from about twenty feet to about forty-five feet, the first mandatory fluid release delay period is less than about thirty seconds and the second mandatory fluid release period is in the range of about four to about ten seconds. 121. - The system of claim 104, wherein the system is configured as at least one of a double safety device preaction system, a simple safety device preaction system and a dry pipe system. 122. - The system of claim 121, wherein the system is configured as a double safety device preaction system, the system further includes one or more fire detectors spaced with respect to the plurality of sprinklers such that in the event of a fire, the fire detectors are activated before any activation of sprinklers. i 123. - The system of claim 121, wherein the system is configured as a simple safety device system and a dual safety device preaction system, the system also includes a release control panel in communication with the control valve . 124. - The system of claim 123, wherein the control valve is a solenoid-operated control valve, the release control panel is configured to receive signals of any pressure drop or fire detection to appropriately energize the solenoid valve per action of the control valve. 125. - The system of claim 123, further comprising a quick release device in communication with the release control panel and capable of detecting a small variation in the pressure drop of the gas in the first pipe network to send a signal to the panel of control of release of said variation. 126. - The system of claim 104, wherein the plurality of sprinklers are disposed above the product comprising at least one of (i) Class I-III, Group A, Group B or Group C with a storage height greater than twenty-five feet; and (ii) Class IV with a storage height greater than twenty-two p i is. 127. - The system of any of claims 104 to 126, wherein the plurality of sprinklers comprises and factor K of at least about 11. 128. - The system of claim 127, wherein the plurality of sprinklers comprise a K-factor of approximately 11 or greater and an operating pressure of approximately 15 psi. or older. 129. - The system of claim 128, wherein the plurality of sprinklers comprise a K-factor of a range from about 11 to about 36. 130. - The system of claim 129, wherein the plurality of sprinklers comprise a factor K is about 17. 131. - The system of claim 129, wherein the plurality of sprinklers comprise a factor K is about 16.8. 132. - The system of any of claims 128 to 131, wherein the operating pressure is in the range of about 15 psi. at approximately 60 psi. 133. - The system of claim 132, wherein the range of the operating pressure is from about 15 pis. at approximately 45 psi. 134. - The system of claim 133, wherein the operating pressure range is from about 20 psi. Approximately 35 psi. 135. - The system of claim 134, wherein the operating pressure range is from about 22 psi. at approximately 30 psi. 136. - The system of any of claims 104 to 135, wherein the plurality of sprinklers comprises a thermal rating of approximately 286 ° F or greater. 137. - A sprinkler to provide a fire protection a storage occupation, the storage occupation defines a ceiling height, a storage classification, a storage configuration, and a defined storage height, the sprinkler comprises: One inlet and one outlet with a passage arranged between them, defining a K factor of 11 or greater; A closure assembly provided adjacent to the outlet and a thermal activation assembly is preferably provided to support in. closing assembly adjacent to the outlet; A deflector device disposed adjacently from the outlet defining an operating pressure; and A classifier that provides that the sprinkler is qualified for use in a roof-only fire protection system, where the stored product is at least one of (i) Class I-III, Group A, Group B or Group C with a storage height greater than twenty-five feet; and (ii) Class IV with a storage height greater than twenty-two feet. 138. - The sprayer of claim 137, wherein the sprayer is listed, as defined in NFPA 13, Section 3.2.3 (2002) for use in fire protection applications only on roof of a stored occupation. 139. - The sprayer of claim 137, wherein the range of the K factor is from 11 to about 36. 140. - The sprayer of claim 139, wherein the K factor is approximately 17. 141. - The sprayer of claim 140, wherein the K factor is approximately 16.8. 142. - The sprayer of one of claims 137 to 141, wherein the range of operating pressure ranges from approximately 15 psi. up to approximately 60 psi. 143. - The sprayer of claim 142, wherein the range of the operating pressure is from about 15 pis. at approximately 45 psi. 144. - The sprayer of claim 142, wherein the operating pressure range is from about 20 psi. at approximately 35 psi. 145. - The sprayer of claim 142, wherein the operating pressure range is from about 22 psi. at approximately 30 psi. 146. - A method for qualifying a sprinkler to be used in a fire protection application only for roof of a storage occupation having a product of at least one of (i) Class I-MI, Group A, Group B or Group C with a storage height greater than twenty-five feet; and (ii) Class IV with a storage height greater than twenty-two feet, the method comprising: Providing a sprayer preferably having an inlet and outlet with a passage therebetween to define a K factor of at least about 11 or greater, a designed operating pressure, a thermal actuator assembly for driving the sprinkler, and a deflector disposed separately adjacent the outlet; Form a sprinkler rack with the sprinkler provided; Arrange the grid from a ceiling height above the stored product; Burning the product, thermally activating at least one of the initial sprinklers on the grid over the product; Delay the release of fluid following the thermal activation of the at least one sprinkler initially operated for a period such as to thermally actuate a plurality of subsequent sprinklers attached to said at least one initial sprinkler; and Discharge the fluid from the initial and subsequently operate the sprinklers at a design pressure from a portion of the sprinkler rack to overwhelm and dominate the test fire, the discharge occurs at the designed operating pressure. 147. - The method of claim 146, wherein the grid arrangement comprises arranging the grid at a ceiling height of 30 feet on a double row shelf of plastic products of Group A, the storage height is 20 feet. 148. - The method of claim 146, wherein the arrangement of the grid comprises arranging the grid at a lower ceiling height: - -T - equal to 45 feet on a shelf - double row of products of the Class III, the ceiling height is less than or approximately equal to 40 feet. 149. - The method of claim 148, wherein the arrangement includes, disposing a grid over the product of Class III, wherein the storage height is about 35 feet. 150. - The method of claim 148, wherein the arrangement includes disposing a grid over the Class III product, wherein the storage height is about 30 feet. 151. - The method of claim 150, wherein the ceiling height is approximately 40 feet. 152. - The method of claim 150, wherein the te-cho height is about 35 feet. 153. - The method of claim 148, wherein the ceiling height is approximately 40 feet. 154. - The method of claim 146, wherein the grid arrangement comprises arranging the grid at a ceiling height less than or equal to 40 feet on a double row shelf with Class III product, the ceiling height is approximately 34; feet-, , -.,. 155. - The method of claim 146, wherein the grid arrangement comprises arranging the grid at a ceiling height less than or equal to about 40 feet on a multiple row shelf with Class II product, the ceiling height is about 34 feet. 156. - The method of claim 146, wherein the arrangement of the grid comprises arranging the grid on a product comprising at least one of (i) Class l-l, Group A, Group B or Group C with a height of storage greater than twenty-five feet; and (ü) Class IV with a storage height greater than twenty-two feet. 157. - The method of one of claims 146 to 156, wherein providing a sprayer includes defining the K factor with a range of between about 11 to about 36. 158. - The method of claim 157, wherein the providing A sprinkler includes defining the K factor that is at approximately 17. 159. - The method of claim 157, wherein providing a sprinkler includes defining the K factor that is at about 16.8. 160. - The method of any of claims 146 to 159, wherein providing a sprinkler includes defining the designed operating pressure in a range from about 15 psi. at approximately 60 psi. 161. - The method of claim 160, wherein providing a sprinkler includes defining the designed operating pressure in a range from about 15 psi. at approximately 45 psi. 162. - The method of claim 161, wherein providing a sprinkler includes defining the operating pressure designed in a range from about 20 psi. at approximately 35 psi. 163. - The method of claim 162, wherein providing a sprinkler includes defining the designed operating pressure in a range from about 22 p s i. at approximately 30 psi. 164. - The method of any of claims 146 to 163, further comprising enlisting the sprinkler, as defined in NFPA 13, Section 3.2.3 (2002). 165. - The method of any of claims 146 to 164, further comprising verifying that the sprinkler grid is qualified. 166. - The method of claim 165, wherein the verification comprises determining that the plurality of attached sprinklers are activated in the next 10 minutes that the at least one initial sprinkler. 167. - The method of claim 166, wherein the verification comprises determining that the plurality of attached sprinklers are activated in the next 8 minutes that the at least one initial sprinkler. 168. - The method of claim 167, wherein the verification comprises determining that the plurality of attached sprinklers are activated within the following 5 minutes that the at least one initial sprinkler. 169. - A method for designing fire protection systems for roofs only for a storage occupation in which the system controls a fire with surrounding effect and drowning, the method includes: Define at least one hydraulically distant sprinkler and at least one we have a hydraulically closed sprinkler with respect to the fluid source; Define a maximum delay period of fluid release for at least one hydraulically far sprinkler to generate a maximum area of sprinkler operation for a surrounding fire and drowning event. Define a minimum delay period of fluid release for at least one hydraulically closed sprinkler to generate a minimum area of sprinkler operation for a surrounding fire and drowning event. 170. - The method of claim 169, wherein defining the at least one hydraulically remote sprinkler and the at least one hydraulically closed sprinkler includes a piping system that includes a riser assembly coupled to the fluid source; a main extension of the riser assembly and a plurality of branching tubes, a plurality of branched tubes and locating at least one hydraulically far sprinkler and at least one hydraulically closed sprinkler along the plurality of branched tubes with respect to the assembly of rise. 171. - The method of claim 170, wherein the definition of the pipe system includes defining a pipe system as at least one of curved configurations or tree configurations. 172. - The method of claim 170, wherein the definition of the pipe system further includes defining a hydraulic design area to withstand a surrounding and drowning effect. 173. - The method of claim 172, wherein the definition of the hydraulic design area includes providing the number of sprinklers in the hydraulic area and the spacing between sprinkler and sprinkler. 174. - The method of claim 172, wherein the definition of the hydraulic design area includes defining the hydraulic design areas as a function of at least one parameter characterizing the storage area, having the parameters of: ceiling height, storage height , product classification, storage configuration and spacing height. 175. - The method of claim 172, wherein the definition of the hydraulic design area includes reading a visualization table of hydraulic design areas and identifying the hydraulic design area based on at least one of the storage parameters. . 176. - The method of claim 172, wherein the definition of a period of maximum delay of fluid release includes computer modeling a 10 x 10 sprinkler screen having at least one hydraulically remote sprinkler and at least one hydraulically closed sprinkler on a stored product, the modeling includes simulating a combustion of the stored product and the activation sequence of sprinklers in response to combustion. 177. - The method of claim 176, wherein the period of maximum delay of release is defined as the time lapse between the activation of the first sprayer until the activation of the sixteenth sprayer. 178. - The method of claim 170, wherein the period of minimum delay of fluid release is preferably defined as the time lapse between the activation of the first sprayer until the activation of the fourth sprayer. 179. - The method of claim 169, further comprising interactively designing the sprinkler system such that the maximum delay period of fluid release is tested in the hydraulically furthest sprinkler, and the minimum delay period of fluid release is tested in the hydraulically more closed sprinkler. 180. The method of claim 179, wherein the interactive design includes executing a computer simulation of the system including sequencing the sprinkler activation of at least one hydraulically distant sprinkler. 181. The method of claim 180, wherein the sequencing of activation of the sprinklers of the at least one hydraulically far sprinkler includes sequencing four hydraulically more remote sprinklers. 182. - The method of claim 181, wherein the sequencing of four hydraulically furthest sprinklers includes modeling the fourth hydraulically far sprinkler to have an activation sequence defining a first activation of a hydraulically far sprinkler, a second activation of a hydraulically far sprinkler , a third activation of a hydraulically distant sprayer and a fourth activation of a hydraulically far sprayer, the second until the fourth activation of hydraulically closed sprinklers occurs in ten seconds with respect to the first activation of the hydraulically distant sprayer. 183. The method of claim 182, wherein the computer simulation includes defining the maximum delay of release of mandatory fluid such that no fluid is discharged at the designed operating pressure of the first hydraulically distant sprayer at the time of the first activation of the sprayer hydraulically far away, no fluid is discharged at the designed operating pressure of the second hydraulically distant sprinkler at the time of the second activation of the hydraulically far sprinkler, no fluid is discharged at the designed operating pressure of the third hydraulically far sprinkler e.- n the third time the activation of the hydraulically distant sprinkler, and no fluid is discharged at the designed operating pressure of the fourth hydraulically far sprinkler at the time of the fourth activation of the hydraulically distant sprinkler 184. - The method of claim 182, wherein the sequencing is such that none of the four hydraulically far sprinklers undergo the operating pressure designed prior to or at the time of actuation of the fourth hydraulically far sprinkler. 185. - The method of claim 180, wherein the representation of the computer simulation includes sequencing sprinkler activations of at least one hydraulically closed sprinkler. 186. The method of claim 184, wherein sequencing the activations of the sprinklers of the at least one hydraulically closed sprinkler includes sequencing four hydraulically closed sprinklers. 187. - The method of claim 186, wherein the sequencing of four hydraulically closed sprinklers includes defining a hydraulically closed first sprinkler activation, a second sprinkler activation: - hydraulically closed, a third activation of a hydraulically closed sprinkler and a fourth activation of a hydraulically closed sprinkler, the second until the fourth activation of hydraulically closed sprinklers occurs in ten seconds with respect to the first activation of the hydraulically distant sprinkler. 188. - The method of claim 186, wherein the representation of the computer simulation includes defining the maximum delay of mandatory fluid release such that no fluid is discharged at the designed operating pressure of the first hydraulically closed sprayer at the time of the first activation of the hydraulically far sprinkler, no fluid is discharged at the designed operating pressure of the second hydraulically closed sprinkler at the time of the second activation of the hydraulically closed sprinkler, no fluid is discharged at the designed operating pressure of the third sprinkler hydraulically closed at the time of the third activation of the hydraulically closed sprinkler, and no fluid is discharged at the designed operating pressure of the fourth hydraulically closed sprinkler at the time of the fourth activation of the hydraulically closed sprinkler, 189. The method of claim 186, wherein the representation of the computer simulation includes defining a mandatory fluid release delay such that none of the four hydraulically closed sprinklers will experience the operating pressure designed prior to or at the time of delivery. activation of the four hydraulically closed sprinkler. 190. The method of claim 180, wherein the representation of the computer simulation includes calculating the travel time of the fluid from the source to an activated sprinkler. 191. - The method of one of claims 169 to 190, wherein the definition of! at least one hydraulically remote sprinkler and at least one hydraulically closed sprinkler including specifying a K factor of 11 or greater and an operating pressure of 15 psi. or older. 192. - The method of claim 191, wherein the specification of the factor includes specifying the range of the K factor of between? 1 to approximately 36. 193. - The method of claim 192, wherein the specification of the K factor includes the specification of the K factor to be about 17. 194. - The method of claim 193, wherein the specification of the K factor includes specifying the K factor a se of about 16.8. 195. - The method of claim 191, wherein the specification of the K factor includes specifying the range of the operating pressure from about 15 psi. at approximately 60 psi. 196. - The method of claim 195, wherein the specification of the operating pressure includes specifying the range from about 15 psi. at approximately 45 psi. 197. - The method of claim 196, wherein the specification of the operating pressure includes specifying the range from about 20 psi. at approximately 35 psi. 198. - The method of claim 195, wherein the specification of the operating pressure includes specifying the range from about 22 psi. at approximately 30 psi. 199. - The method of one of claims 169 to 198, wherein the definition of at least one of the maximum and minimum fluid release delay periods includes defining the delay period such that the operation area of the maximum and minimum sprinklers are formed with ten minutes of activation of the respective sprinkler of the at least one hydraulically distant and closed sprinkler. 200. - The method of claim 199, wherein the definition of the delay period is such that the maximum and minimum area of operation of sprinklers are formed with approximately eight minutes of activation of the respective sprinkler of at least the hydraulically far sprinkler and the hydraulically closed sprinkler. 201. - The method of claim 200, wherein the definition of the delay period is such that the maximum and minimum area of operation of the respective sprinkler is formed with about five minutes from the activation of the respective sprinkler of at least the hydraulically distant sprinkler and the hydraulically closed sprinkler. 202. The method of any one of claims 169 to 201, wherein the definition of at least one hydraulically far sprinkler and at least one electrically closed sprinkler includes disposing the sprinkler on at least one of (i) Class I-III, Group A, Group B or Group C with a storage height greater than twenty-five feet; and (ü) Class IV with a storage height greater than twenty-two feet. 203. - A system for designing a sprinkler system dry fire protection only roof for a storage occupation, the system comprises: A database, the database includes a first data array that characterizes storage occupancy, a second data array that characterizes a sprinkler, a third data array that identifies a hydraulic design area as a function of prime and second arrays, and a fourth data array that identifies a maximum delay period of fluid release and a period of minimum delay of fluid release, each one is a function of the first, second and third data arrangement. 204. - The system of claim 203, wherein the database comprises a data table. 205. - The system of claim 203, wherein the database comprises a display table. 206. - The system of claim 205, wherein the display table is configured such that one of the first, second and third data array determines the fourth data array. 207. - The system of claim 203, wherein the second data array defines at least one of a K factor of about 11 or greater and an operating pressure of about 15 psi. or older. 208. - The system of claim 207, wherein the second data array defines the K factor as in the range of about 11 to about 36. 209. - The system of claim 208, wherein the second data array defines the K factor to be at approximately 17. 210. - The system of claim 208, wherein the second data array defines the factor as to be at approximately 16.8. 211. - The system of claim 208, wherein the second data array defines the operating pressure as in the range of about 15 psi. 212. The system of claim 211, wherein the second data array defines the operating pressure as in the range of about 15 psi. at approximately 45 psi .. 213. - The system of claim 212, wherein the second data array defines the operating pressure as in the range of about 20 psi. at approximately 35 psi .. 214. - The system of claim 213, wherein the second data array defines the operating pressure as in the range of approximately 22 psi. at approximately 30 psi .. 215. - EJ system of any of claims 203 to 214, wherein the first data array characterizes the storage area as being at least one of (i) CI as l-lll, Group A, Group B or Group C with one storage height greater than twenty-five feet; and (ü) Class IV with a storage height greater than twenty-two feet. 216. - A system for the design of a ceiling dry sprinkler fire protection system for a storage occupation, the system comprises: A database, the database including a single specification of a period of delay maximum fluid release to be incorporated into a ceiling-only dry sprinkler system to control a fire event in a storage occupation with a sprinkler operating area having a surrounding configuration and drowning over the fire event for a given ceiling height, storage height and / or product classifications. 217. - The system of claim 216, wherein the database comprises a data sheet. 218. - The system of claim 217, wherein the database includes a first data array defining a fire sprinkler and a second data array defining a product. 219. - The system of claim 218, wherein the first data array includes at least one data element of the K factor, a data element of the temperature value, a data element of the operating pressure, a data element of the hydraulic design area and a data element of the I Index RTI. 220. - The system of claim 219, wherein the data element of the factor K is at least d approximately 11. 221. - The system of claim 220, wherein the data element of the K factor is in the range from about 11 to about 25. 222. - The system of any of claims 219 to 221, wherein the factor data element K is approximately 17. 223. - The system of claim 222, wherein the data element of the K-factor is 16.8 224. - The system of claim 218, wherein the second data array includes at least one sorting data element, a storage data element and a ceiling height element. 225. - The system of claim 224, wherein the classification of products is at least one of Class I-IV and Group A, B and C. 226. - The system of claim 224, wherein the storage height data element is in the range from about 20 feet to about 40 feet, and the ceiling height element in the range of about 30 feet to about 45 feet as a function of the storage height element. 227. - A dry pipe fire protection system, comprising: A plurality of sprinklers arranged on a protective area and under the roof; At least one storage shelf located in the protection area and the product is at least one of the products according to NFPA-13 (2002) for products of the classes: Class I, Class II, Class III and Class IV, and Group A, Group B and Group C plastics, the at least one shelf is located between the protection area and the plurality of sprinklers; and A pipe network that supplies water to the plurality of sprinklers, a pipe network is designed to release water to a design area containing a sprinkler hydraulically farther from the plurality of sprinklers, the pipe network is filled with a gas up to at least one of the activated sprinklers, the design area is selected from design areas provided in NFPA-13 (2002) for dry sprinkler systems. 228. - A dry pipe protection system for warehouses, comprising: A plurality of sprinklers arranged over a protection area and under a roof; At least one storage shelf located in the protection area and containing at least one product in accordance with NFPA-13 (2002) for products of the following classes: Class I, Class II, Class III and Class IV, and Group A plastics , Group B and Group C, the at least one shelf is located between the protection area and the plurality of sprinklers; and A network of pipes that supply water to the plurality of sprinklers, the pipe network is designed to release water to a designed area containing a sprinkler hydraulically further away in the plurality of sprinklers, the pipe network is filled with a gas up to at least one of the plurality of sprinklers, the design area is smaller than the design area provided in NFPA-13 (2002) for dry sprinkler system. 229. - A fire protection system for storage, comprising: A plurality of sprinklers arranged on a protective area and under a roof; At least one storage shelf located in the protection area and containing at least one product of, according to NFPA-13 (2002) for products of the classes: Class I, Class II, Class III and Class IV, and Group plastics A, Group B and Group C, the at least one shelf is located between the protection area and the plurality of sprinklers; and A network of pipes that supply water to the plurality of sprinklers, the pipe network is designed to release water to a designed area containing a sprinkler hydraulically further away in the plurality of sprinklers, the pipe network is filled with a gas to at least one of the plurality of activated sprinklers, the design area is determined without a penalty as compared to two dry sprinkler systems for the protection of the selected product. 230.- A fire protection system for storage, comprising: A plurality of sprinklers arranged on a protection area and under a roof; At least one storage shelf located in the protection area and containing at least one product of rubber tires, palletized platforms, packed cotton, and rolled paper according to NFPA-13 (2002), the at least one shelf is located between the protection area and the plurality of sprinklers; and A network of pipes that supply water to the plurality of sprinklers, the pipe network is designed to release water to a designed area-which contains a sprinkler hydraulically more distant in the plurality of sprinklers, the pipe network is full with a gas to at least one of the plurality of activated sprinklers, the design area is selected from the design areas provided in NFPA-13 (2002) for dry sprinkler system. 231. - A fire protection system for storage, comprising: A plurality of sprinklers arranged over a protection area and under a roof; At least one storage shelf located in the protection area and containing at least product of rubber tires, palletized platforms, packed cotton, and rolled paper according to NFPA-13 (2002), the at least one shelf is located between the protection area and the plurality of sprinklers; and A network of pipes that supply water to the plurality of sprinklers, the pipe network is designed to release water to a designed area containing a sprinkler hydraulically further away in the plurality of sprinklers, the pipe network is filled with a gas up to at least one of the plurality of sprinklers activated, the design area is smaller than the design area provided in NFPA-13 (2002) for dry sprinkler system. 232. - A fire protection system for storage, comprising: A plurality of sprinklers disposed on a. protection area and under a roof; At least one storage shelf located in the protection area and containing at least the product of rubber tires, palletized platforms, packed cotton, and rolled paper according to NFPA-13 (2002), the at least one shelf is localised between the protection area and the plurality of sprinklers; and A network of pipes that supply water to the plurality of sprinklers, the pipe network is designed to release water to a designed area containing a sprinkler hydraulically further away in the plurality of sprinklers, the pipe network is filled with a gas up to At least one of the plurality of actuated sprinklers, the design area is determined without a penalty as compared to dry sprinkler systems of the selected product. 233. - The system of any of claims 227 to 232, wherein the design area is 2000 square feet. 2. 34. - The system of any of claims 227 to 232, wherein the plurality of sprinklers have a K factor in the range of about 11 to about 36. 235. - The system of claim 234, wherein the K factor is approximately 17. 236. - The system of claim 235, wherein the K factor is 16.8. 237. - The system of claim 1 of claims 227 to 232, wherein the plurality of sprinklers has an operating pressure in the range of about 15 psi. at approximately 60 psi. 238. - The system of claim 237, wherein the range of the operating pressure is from about 15 psi. at approximately 45 psi. 239. - The system of claim 238, wherein the range of the operating pressure is from about 20 psi. at approximately 35 psi. 240. - The system of claim 239, wherein the range of the operating pressure is from about 22 psi. at approximately 30 psi. 241. - The system of any of claims 227 to 240, wherein the product comprises Group A plastics in a double-row shelf. 242. The system of one of claims 227 to 240, wherein the product comprises at least one of (i) Class I-III, Group A, Group B or Group C with a storage height greater than twenty-five feet; and (ii) Class IV with a storage height greater than twenty-two feet. 243. - One method - for installation of a fire protection system for a shelf of products, the method includes: Designing a sprinkler system dry only for roof to protect a shelf in an enclosure that has a ceiling of 30 feet high, the design includes: Specific sprinklers that have a K-factor of 16.8 to form a sprinkler grid network; Modify a model such as to be at least the equivalent of a dry system as specified by NFPA 13 for shelving protection; and Install the dry pipe system according to the design. 244. - The method of claim 243, wherein the modification of the model is such that the model defines a discharge density of 0.8 gpm / ft2 per 2000 square feet in accordance with NFPA-13 (2000) for dry storage system of warehouses of Double-row shelves of Group A plastic products stored at 25 feet high under a 30-foot ceiling height. 245. - The method of claim 244, wherein the design includes specifying a hydraulic design area for the system equal to or less than a hydraulic design area for dry protection systems of the same stored product. 246. The method of one of claims 244 to 245, wherein the sprinkler specification includes specifying the factor in a range from about 11 to about 36. 247. - The method of claim 246, wherein the sprinkler specification includes specifying the K factor of the K factor as being that of approximately 17. 248. - The method of claim 247, wherein in the specification of the sprinklers include specifying the K factor as being that of approximately 16.8. 249. The method of any one of claims 244 to 248, wherein the sprinkler specification includes specifying an operating pressure in the range of about 15 psi. up to approximately 60 psi. 250. The method of claim 249, wherein the specification of the sprinkler operating pressure includes specifying the range from about 15 psi. up to approximately 45 psi. 251. - The method of claim 250, wherein the specification of the operating pressure of the sprinklers includes specifying the range from about 20 psi. up to about 35 psi. 252. - The method of claim 251, wherein the specification of the sprinkler operating pressure includes specifying the range from about 22 psi. up to about 30 psi. 253. - A method of providing fire protection systems only for roofing for storage occupancy, the method comprises: Obtaining a qualified component for use in a roof-only fire protection system for a storage occupation that has at least one of ( i) Class l-III, Group A, Group B or Group C with a storage height greater than twenty-five feet; and (ii) Class IV with a storage height greater than twenty-two feet; and Distributing to a user the sprayer for use in a fire protection application storage. 254. - The method of claim 253, wherein obtaining the component includes qualifying at least one of a system, subsystem, sprinkler or design method for use in the system. 255. - The method of claim 253, wherein the distribution includes distributing from a first part to a second part for use in a fire protection application. 256. - A kit for a dry sprinkler system only for roof for fire protection of a storage occupation, the kit includes: At least one sprinkler qualified for use in a sprinkler system only for roof for a storage occupation that has a height of sky from approximately naje which has a sky height from about thirty feet to about forty-five feet and a product having a storage height in the range of about twenty feet to about forty feet as a function of the ceiling height; A riser assembly for controlling the release of fluid to said at least one sprinkler; and A data sheet for designing the system to control a fire event with a surrounding and drowning configuration, the data sheet defines a hydraulically designed area, a maximum delay period of fluid release for a hydraulically sprinkler remote, and a minimum delay period of fluid release to a hydraulically more closed sprinkler. . . ... 257. - The kit of claim 256, wherein the at least one sprinkler comprises a vertical or upright sprinkler having a K factor of about seventeen and a temperature value of about 286 ° F. 258. - The kit of claim 256, wherein the at least one sprinkler is qualified for the protection of the product of at least one of Class I, II, II, IV and Group A plastics. 259. - The indication kit 256, wherein the sub assembly includes a control valve having an inlet and an outlet, and a pressure switch for communication with the control valve. 260. - The kit of claim 259, further comprising a control panel for controlling the communication between the pressure switch and the control valve. 261. - The kit of claim 259, further comprising at least one shut-off valve coupled to at least the inlet and outlet of the control valve, and a check valve to be coupled to the outlet of the control valve. 262. - The kit of claim 259, wherein the control valve includes an intermediate chamber such as to eliminate the need for a check valve in the rise assembly. 263. - The kit of claim 259, further comprising a program application configured to model the system to verify the maximum delay period of fluid release for the hydraulically furthest sprinkler and the minimum delay period of fluid release for the sprinkler hydraulically more closed. 264. - The kit of claim 256, wherein the sprayer has a K-factor in the range from about 11 to about 36. 265. - The kit of claim 264, wherein the K factor is approximately 17. 266. - The kit of claim 265, wherein the K factor is approximately 16.8. 267. - The kit of claim 256, wherein the sprayer has an operating pressure in the range of about 5 psi. at approximately 60 psi. 268. - ELkit.de of claim 257, wherein the operation pressure is in the range from about 5 psi. at approximately 45 psi. 269. - The kit of claim 267, wherein the operating pressure is in the range of about 20 psi. Approximately 35 psi. 270. - The kit of claim 269, wherein the operating pressure is in the range of about 22 psi. at approximately 30 psi. 271. - A method to provide a fire protection only for roof for a warehouse occupation, the method includes: Distribute from a first part to a second part the installation criteria to install a sprinkler in a fire protection system only of roof for a stored occupation, including specifying at least one classified product and storage configuration, specifying a minimum clear height between the storage height and a sprinkler deflector, specifying a maximum coverage area and a minimum coverage area per base of the sprinkler in the system, specify the spacer sprinkler spacing required in the system, specify a hydraulically designed area and a pre-design-o-operation; and specify your period of delay of release of designed fluid. 272. - The method of claim 271, wherein the specification of the designed fluid release delay period includes specifying a period of maximum delay of fluid release and a minimum delay period of fluid release. 273. The method of claim 271, wherein the specification of the maximum and minimum delay periods of fluid release include specifying the maximum delay period of fluid release to occur in the most hydraulically distant sprinkler and specify the minimum delay period of fluid release to occur in the most hydraulically closed sprinkler. 274. - The method of claim 271, wherein the specification of the fluid release delay period includes specifying the delay period as a function of at least one of ceiling height, product classification, storage configuration, storage height and height of spacing. 275. - The method of any of claims 271 to 274, wherein the specification of the designed fluid release delay period includes providing a table of fluid flow times, the times are in function of at least one roof height, product classification, storage configuration, storage height, and spacing height. 276. - The method of claim 271, wherein the distribution of the installation criterion further includes specifying the components of the system to be used with the sprayer, such as to include specifying at least one rise assembly to control the flow of fluid to the system. sprinklers and specify a control mechanism to implement the designed fluid release delay. 277. - The method of claim 276, wherein the specification of the components of the system further includes specifying its preaction installation criteria. 278. The method of claim 277, wherein the specification of the preaction installation criterion includes specifying a fire detection device for communication with the control mechanism. 0 279. - The method of claim 271, wherein the installation distribution comprises providing a data sheet. | - • - 280.- The method of claim 279, wherein the data sheet provides includes publishing the data sheet on at least one paper medium and an electronic medium. 281. - The method of the. Claim 271, further comprising obtaining a sprinkler for use in a sprinkler system or ceiling for a storage occupation, obtaining includes: Providing a sprinkler body having an inlet and an outlet with a passage therebetween, such as to define a K factor of 11 or greater and an activation assembly that has a thermal degree of approtely 286 ° F, and to qualify and register the sprayer with an organization acceptable to an authority having jurisdiction over an occupation of storage. 282. - The method of claim 281, wherein the sprinkler rating includes testing with sprinkler fire, the tests include: Defining acceptance test criteria that define the demand for fluid as a sprinkler activation function designed to effectively suffocate and control a fire with a surrounding configuration and flood; Placing a plurality of sprinklers in a sprinkler rack in a ceiling at a sprinkler spacing at a ceiling height, the grid is located on the stored product having a product classification, a storage configuration and a storage height; Generate a fire event in the product; and Delay the discharge of fluid from the sprinkler screen to activate a plurality of sprinklers satisfying the test criteria. 283. The method of claim 282, wherein the definition of acceptable test criteria includes specifying that the designed sprinkler activation area is less than forty percent of the total sprinklers of the grid. 284. - The method of claim 282, wherein the designed sprinkler activation specification includes specifying that the designed sprinkler activation area is less than thirty-seven percent of the total sprinklers in the grid. 285. - The method of claim 282, wherein the designed sprinkler specification includes specifying that the designed sprinkler activation area is less than twenty percent of the total sprinklers in the grid. 286. - The method of claim 271, wherein the delay of the discharge of fluid includes delaying the discharge of fluid for a period of time that is a function of at least one of: product classification-, storage configuration, alt.ura .of storage, and sprinkler spacing height to sprinkler. 287. - The method of claim 286, wherein the delay of the fluid discharge further includes determining the period of fluid delay from a computational model of the product and the storage occupation, in which the model solves for the activation times of fire-free sprinklers such that the delay of fluid release is the time lapse between a first sprinkler activation and at least one of: (i) a critical sprinkler activation number; and (ii) a number of sprinklers equivalent to an area of operation capable of circling and drowning or a fire event. 288. - The method of claim 271, wherein the distribution from a first part to a second part includes transferring a component of the system to at least one of retailers, suppliers, sprinkler system installers, or storage operators. 289. - The method of claim 288, wherein the transfer is by means of at least one of terrestrial distribution, air distribution, maritime distribution and on-line distribution. 290. The method of claim 271, further comprising an application of a program configured to model the system and verify the release of fluid to at least one actuated sprinkler following the period of fluid release delay. 291. - A system for the delivery of a fire protection arrangement, the system comprises: A first computational processing device in co-munication with at least one second computational processing device in a network, and a data storage base in the network. First computational processing device, the database preferably includes a plurality of data array, the plurality of data array comprises: A first data array that defines a sprinkler to be used in a roof-only fire protection system for a storage occupation, the first data array specifies a K-factor, a temperature gradient, and a hydraulic design area. A second data array that defines a stored product, the second data array includes the product classification, a storage configuration and a storage height; A third data array defining a maximum delay period of fluid release for the release time for a hydraulically furthest sprayer in a roof only system, the third data array is a function of the first and second data array; and A fourth data set that defines a minimum delay period of fluid release for the release time for a hydraulically closed sprinkler in a roof-only system, the fourth data array is a function of the first and second data arrays . 292. - The system of claim 291, wherein the database is configured as an electronic data sheet with at least one of a file with extension .html, a file with extension .pdf, or an editable text file. 293. - The system of claim 292, wherein the database includes a fifth data array that identifies an upload assembly for use with the sprayer of the first data array. 294. - The system of claim 291, wherein the database includes a sixth data array defining a pipe system to be coupled to the control valve of the fifth data array for the sprayer of the first data array. 295. - The system of claim 291, wherein the network comprises at least one WAN network, a LAN and the Internet. 296. - The system of one of claims 291 to 295, wherein, the first data array specifies a. K factor in the range of approximately 11 to approximately 36. 297. - The system of claim 296, wherein the K factor is approximately 17. 298. - The system of claim 297, wherein the K factor is approximately 16.8. 299. The system of any of claims 291 to 298, wherein the first data array specifies a sprinkler operating pressure in the range of about 15 psi. up to approximately 60 psi. 300. - The system of claim 299, wherein the operating pressure is in the range of about 15 psi. up to approximately 45 psi. 301. - The system of claim 300, wherein the operating pressure is in the range from about 20 psi. up to about 35 psi. 302. - The system of claim 301, wherein the operating pressure is in the range from about 22 psi. up to about 30 psi. 303. - A system of protection against * fire only for roof for the protection of a storage shelf, the storage rack has a class of products of either: (i) Class I-fll, Group A, Group B or Group C with a storage height greater than twenty-five feet; and (ii) Class IV with a storage height greater than twenty-two feet, the system comprises: A pipe network; And a plurality of sprinklers disposed on the storage rack, the plurality of sprinklers have a K-factor of greater than 11 and a thermal rating of 286 ° F or greater. 304. - The system of claim 303, wherein the range of the K factor is from about 11 to about 36. 305. - The system of claim 304, wherein the K factor is approximately 17. 306. - The system of claim 305, wherein the K factor is approximately 16.8. 307. - The system of claim 303, wherein the first data array specifies an operating pressure of the sprinklers in the range of approximately 15 psi. at approximately 60 psi. 30-8. The system of claim.-307, wherein the pressure of. operation is in the range of approximately 15 psi. at approximately 45 psi. 309. - The system of claim 308, wherein the operating pressure is in the range of about 20 psi. Approximately 35 psi. 310. - The system of claim 309, wherein the operating pressure is in the range of approximately 22 psi. at approximately 30 psi. 311. - A method for designing a dry roof fire protection system for a storage occupation, the method comprising: Specifying a database of design criteria, including specifying a single period of maximum delay of fluid release for a given ceiling height, a storage height, and / or a product classification; Incorporate the only period of maximum delay of fluid release within a dry ceiling sprinkler system to control a fire event in storage occupancy with a sprinkler operation area having a surrounding configuration and drowning over the event of fire. 312. - The method in claim 311, wherein the specification comprises providing the database as a data sheet. 313. - The method of claim 311, wherein the specification of the database includes specifying a first data array that defines a fire sprinkler and a second data array that defines a product. 314. - The method of claim 313, wherein the specification of the first data array includes specifying at least one of a K-factor data element, a temperature-grade data element, an operating-pressure data element, a data element of a hydraulic design area and a data element of an RTI index. 315. - The rei indication method 314, where the specification of the K factor includes specifying the data element to be at least 11. 316. - The method of claim 315, wherein specifying the K factor includes specifying the data element as a range of about 11 to about 25. 317. - The method of claim 316, wherein the specification of the K factor includes specifying the data element to be approximately 17. 318. - The method of claim 317, wherein the specification of the K factor includes specifying the data element for be 16.8. 319. - The method of claim 311, wherein the specification of the second data array includes specifying at least one of a classification data element, a storage height data element, a data element and ceiling height. 320. - The method of claim 319, wherein the specification of data element classification includes specifying the data element to be at least one of the products of Class I-IV and Group A, B and C. 321. - The method of claim 320, wherein the specification of the storage height data element includes specifying the data element as a range of about 20 feet to about 40 feet, and further specifying the ceiling height data element as a range of approximately 30 feet to approximately 45 feet as a function of the storage height data element. 322. - The method of claim 321, wherein the specification of the first data array includes specifying an operating pressure in the range of about 15 psi to about 60 psi. 323. The method of claim 322, wherein the specification of the operating pressure includes specifying a range of approximately 15 psi. at approximately 45 psi. 324. - The method of claim 323, wherein the specification of the operating pressure includes specifying a range of about 20 psi. at approximately 35 psi. 325. - The method of claim 324, wherein the specification of the operating pressure includes specifying a range of approximately 22 psi. at approximately 30 psi.