Alarms Patents (Class 169/23)
  • Patent number: 11191986
    Abstract: A wall-mountable spray head unit (11) is described. The spray head unit comprises a rotatable spray head assembly (81, 82; FIG. 9, 83; FIG. 17) which comprises a spray manifold (181, 182; FIG. 9) rotatable about a first axis (17), a spray nozzle (19) supported by the spray manifold and orientated to deliver fire-suppressant material radially in a plane in a plane defined by the first axis and a second axis which is perpendicular to the first axis, and at least one thermal sensor (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2021
    Inventors: Alan Hart, Yusuf Muhammad, William Makant, Anderson Horst
  • Patent number: 11143372
    Abstract: A safety device cabinet includes an equipment cabinet, a safety switch having an integrated light, a switch logic circuit and a battery back-up. The safety device cabinet includes an equipment cabinet and an access door. The access door includes a window and an edge light emitting device. The window is etched with a message containing a description of the equipment stored in the equipment cabinet. The safety switch with an integrated light includes a push momentary switch, a light bezel and a bezel light source. An inner perimeter of the outer shell is sized to receive a push button of the push momentary switch. The light bezel preferably includes an opening to receive a light emitting portion of the light source. The switch logic circuit preferably includes a AC to DC converter, a microprocessor, a software program and a monitoring device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2021
    Inventors: Steve Wriggle, Dorothy J. Wriggle
  • Patent number: 11007388
    Abstract: System and methods to provide ceiling-only suppression fire protection of up to fifty feet (50 ft.) of rack storage of cartoned unexpanded plastic commodities and less hazardous commodities, such as for example, Class 1, Class 2, Class 3, Class 4 and/or combinations thereof beneath a ceiling having a maximum ceiling height up to fifty-five feet (55 ft.).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2021
    Assignees: Viking Group, Inc., Minimax Viking Research & Development GmbH
    Inventors: Martin H. Workman, Scott T. Franson, James E. Golinveaux, Jason Thomas Watson
  • Patent number: 10953253
    Abstract: The invention relates to an alarm valve station (1), in particular a wet alarm valve station, of a fire extinguishing system (100), having an alarm valve (3) with an extinguishing fluid inlet (5) and an extinguishing fluid outlet (7), wherein the alarm valve (3) has a closing body that can be moved back and forth between a blocking state and a release state, wherein the fluid inlet chamber and the fluid outlet chamber are separated from one another in the blocking state and communicate with one another fluidically in the release state, an alarm triggering device (9) for triggering a fire alarm, which is connected with the alarm valve (3), and a delay container (11a, 11b) in order to delay triggering of the fire alarm, wherein the alarm valve (3) is fluidically connected with a fluid inlet (13) of the delay container, and a fluid outlet (15a-15c) of the delay container (11a, 11b) is fluidically connected with the alarm triggering device (9).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2021
    Assignee: Minimax GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Matthias Pohl
  • Patent number: 10780303
    Abstract: System and methods to provide ceiling-only suppression fire protection of up to fifty feet (50 ft.) of rack storage of cartoned unexpanded plastic commodities and less hazardous commodities, such as for example, Class 1, Class 2, Class 3, Class 4 and/or combinations thereof beneath a ceiling having a maximum ceiling height up to fifty-five feet (55 ft.). The systems and methods provide for hydraulic and system parameters that include a hydraulic design area based upon five to no more than twelve hydraulically most remote sprinklers spaced at a preferred sprinkler-to-sprinkler spacing of eight to ten feet (8-10 ft.) coupled to two to four branch lines tied to a common cross main supply pipe of firefighting fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2020
    Assignees: Viking Group, Inc., Minimax Viking Research & Development GmbH
    Inventors: Martin H. Workman, Scott T. Franson, James E. Golinveaux, Jason Thomas Watson
  • Patent number: 10773110
    Abstract: System and methods to provide ceiling-only suppression fire protection of up to fifty feet (50 ft.) of rack storage of cartoned unexpanded plastic commodities and less hazardous commodities, such as for example, Class 1, Class 2, Class 3, Class 4 and/or combinations thereof beneath a ceiling having a maximum ceiling height up to fifty-five feet (55 ft.). The systems and methods provide for hydraulic and system parameters that include a hydraulic design area based upon five to no more than twelve hydraulically most remote sprinklers spaced at a preferred sprinkler-to-sprinkler spacing of eight to ten feet (8-10 ft.) coupled to two to four branch lines tied to a common cross main supply pipe of firefighting fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignees: Viking Group, Inc., Minimax Viking Research & Development GmbH
    Inventors: Martin H. Workman, Scott T. Franson, James E. Golinveaux, Jason Thomas Watson
  • Patent number: 10751556
    Abstract: System and methods to provide ceiling-only suppression fire protection of up to fifty feet (50 ft.) of rack storage of cartoned unexpanded plastic commodities and less hazardous commodities, such as for example, Class 1, Class 2, Class 3, Class 4 and/or combinations thereof beneath a ceiling having a maximum ceiling height up to fifty-five feet (55 ft.). The systems and methods provide for hydraulic and system parameters that include a hydraulic design area based upon five to no more than twelve hydraulically most remote sprinklers spaced at a preferred sprinkler-to-sprinkler spacing of eight to ten feet (8-10 ft.) coupled to two to four branch lines tied to a common cross main supply pipe of firefighting fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2020
    Assignees: Viking Group, Inc., Minimax Viking Research & Development GmbH
    Inventors: Martin H. Workman, Scott T. Franson, James E. Golinveaux, Jason Thomas Watson
  • Patent number: 10729924
    Abstract: System and methods to provide ceiling-only suppression fire protection of up to fifty feet (50 ft.) of rack storage of cartoned unexpanded plastic commodities and less hazardous commodities, such as for example, Class 1, Class 2, Class 3, Class 4 and/or combinations thereof beneath a ceiling having a maximum ceiling height up to fifty-five feet (55 ft.). The systems and methods provide for hydraulic and system parameters that include a hydraulic design area based upon five to no more than twelve hydraulically most remote sprinklers spaced at a preferred sprinkler-to-sprinkler spacing of eight to ten feet (8-10 ft.) coupled to two to four branch lines tied to a common cross main supply pipe of firefighting fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2020
    Assignees: Viking Group, Inc., Minimax Viking Research & Development GmbH
    Inventors: Martin H. Workman, Scott T. Franson, James E. Golinveaux, Jason Thomas Watson
  • Patent number: 10661107
    Abstract: System and methods to provide ceiling-only suppression fire protection of up to fifty feet (50 ft.) of rack storage of cartoned unexpanded plastic commodities and less hazardous commodities, such as for example, Class 1, Class 2, Class 3, Class 4 and/or combinations thereof beneath a ceiling having a maximum ceiling height up to fifty-five feet (55 ft.). The systems and methods provide for hydraulic and system parameters that include a hydraulic design area based upon five to no more than twelve hydraulically most remote sprinklers spaced at a preferred sprinkler-to-sprinkler spacing of eight to ten feet (8-10 ft.) coupled to two to four branch lines tied to a common cross main supply pipe of firefighting fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2020
    Assignees: Viking Group, Inc., Minimax Viking Research & Development GmbH
    Inventors: Martin H. Workman, Scott T. Franson, James E. Golinveaux, Jason Thomas Watson
  • Patent number: 10646735
    Abstract: Wet fire protection systems and methods for the protection of a stored commodity are provided. The system includes a supply portion coupled to a water supply and a demand portion including a plurality of sprinklers disposed above the commodity with each sprinkler having an operating pressure range. The plurality of sprinklers are interconnected by a network of pipes filled with water to provide each sprinkler with an initial pressure of water. A pressure control assembly is disposed between the supply portion and the demand portion to withhold fluid pressure from the supply portion from pressurizing the demand portion for a predetermined withholding period following actuation of at least one sprinkler in response to a fire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2020
    Assignee: Tyco Fire Products LP
    Inventors: Zachary L. Magnone, Jeremiah P. Crocker, John Desrosier, Sean E. Cutting, Manuel R. Silva, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10518119
    Abstract: A fire-extinguishing or fire-protection device formed from a pressure vessel filled with a pressurized extinguishing medium. The device has an exit opening closed by a closure element which can be perforated by a perforation element. The pressurized extinguishing medium is held back in the pressure vessel from a passively thermally controlled trigger valve attached directly to the exit opening. The valve has a perforation element and a thermal triggering element. The perforation element is prestressed in a triggering position and is retained by the thermal triggering element in a standby position. When the triggering element is triggered as a result of a predetermined temperature being reached, the perforation element is released moving the triggering element to the triggering position in which it perforates the closure element. A thermal trigger valve suitable for use in the fire-extinguishing or fire-protection device is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2019
    Assignee: Job Lizenz GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Rüdiger Klug, Bodo Müller, Jürgen Teschner
  • Patent number: 10315060
    Abstract: A device and method for verifying the readiness of a building's fire sprinkler system. The device includes an adapter that is secured between the sprinkler pipe and the sprinkler assembly, a pressure switch to measure the fluid pressure in the fire sprinkler system, an indicator which notifies occupants if there is enough fluid pressure at the sprinkler assembly for the sprinkler to operate properly, and a power source for the pressure switch and indicator. During operation of the sprinkler system, water flows from the sprinkler pipe, through the adapter and into the sprinkler assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2019
    Inventors: Scott Hayes, Jerry Minter
  • Patent number: 10166420
    Abstract: A sensor assembly having a sensor reservoir with probe for fire sprinkler and other systems to monitor and measure the internal characteristics of a pipe system wherein the sensor reservoir is directly connected to the pipe system, allowing the sensor reservoir to fill with the fluid contents of that system and to have a probe be in direct contact with the fluid contents of that system without altering the fluid flow dynamic within the piped system. The probe can transmit data to a controller and, based upon programmed criteria, interact with other devices, e.g., if the temperature probe reports a low temperature of the internal fluid characteristics, the controller can activate a heater linked to the controller so that pipes or sprinkler heads will be further resistant to freezing or other compromising conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2019
    Assignee: JTJ Tech, LLC
    Inventors: James N. Seip, Tyler Seip, Jonathan Epstein
  • Patent number: 10088073
    Abstract: A limit switch for a rising-stem type valve which has a spring-loaded actuator arm with a bracket on one end which wraps around the valve stem. A follower or roller on the end of the bracket opposite the actuator arm rides on the rising stem of the valve, held in contact with the stem by the spring. When the stem has risen to a preselected position, usually the position in which the valve is fully open, the follower or roller engages a circumferential groove formed around the stem. This causes the spring to bias the actuator arm to move a tab at the opposite end of the actuator arm, and the tab operates a limit switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2018
    Assignee: Kennedy Valve Company
    Inventor: Paul Kennedy
  • Patent number: 10010732
    Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure describe apparatus, methods and systems for monitoring the operational status of fire extinguishers through the utilization of optically sensed, color profile determinations of a pressure gauge positioned on the fire extinguisher as well as the utilization of vibrational, and location sensing devices. Advantageously, monitoring apparatus according to the present disclosure are networkable, and a number of their operational characteristics may be configured via the network and associated servers. Furthermore, monitoring apparatus according to the present disclosure may employ vibrational, acceleration, GPS, RFID, and ultrasonic sensors to detect movement, location, and obstructions. In sharp contrast to the prior art, apparatus, methods and systems according to the present disclosure operate with existing fire extinguishers and provide a convenient, cost effective, and highly functional upgrade path for deployed fire extinguishers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2018
    Assignee: NEC Corporation
    Inventors: Junqiang Hu, Ting Wang
  • Patent number: 10010733
    Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure describe apparatus, methods and systems for monitoring the operational status of fire extinguishers through the utilization of optically sensed, color profile determinations of a pressure gauge positioned on the fire extinguisher as well as the utilization of vibrational, and location sensing devices. Advantageously, monitoring apparatus according to the present disclosure are networkable, and a number of their operational characteristics may be configured via the network and associated servers. Furthermore, monitoring apparatus according to the present disclosure may employ vibrational, acceleration, GPS, RFID, and ultrasonic sensors to detect movement, location, and obstructions. In sharp contrast to the prior art, apparatus, methods and systems according to the present disclosure operate with existing fire extinguishers and provide a convenient, cost effective, and highly functional upgrade path for deployed fire extinguishers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2018
    Assignee: NEC Corporation
    Inventors: Junqiang Hu, Ting Wang
  • Patent number: 9956443
    Abstract: Systems and methods for the protection of an attic or concealed combustible space defined by a ceiling base and a roof deck disposed above a ceiling base defining a peak are provided. A plurality of fluid distribution devices are spaced above the ceiling base and below the roof deck to define a peak region. At least one fire detection assembly is disposed in the peak region above the fluid distribution devices to detect a fire in the attic space. A controller couples the plurality of distribution devices to the fire detection assembly. The fluid distribution devices are disposed at a working clearance distance above the ceiling base to provide an extended protected eaves region of the attic space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2018
    Assignee: Tyco Fire Products LP
    Inventor: Sean E. Cutting
  • Patent number: 9816893
    Abstract: The subject matter disclosed herein relates to fluid leakage detection. More particularly, subject matter relates to a device for detecting fluid leakage in a fluid drain pipe attached to a power transformer device. The device comprises fluid collection compartment attached to bottom of the fluid drain pipe and a fluid level switch is positioned in the fluid collection compartment to generate alarm signal to indicate fluid leakage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2017
    Assignee: CTR MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES LIMITED
    Inventor: Vijaykumar K. Wakchaure
  • Patent number: 9672712
    Abstract: A water-powered residential fire suppression and alarm system is provided. The system comprises a sprinkler head, a water-powered alarm, a fire-resistant transfer line assembly, and a housing assembly. The sprinkler activates upon excessive heat. An unclosable channel connects the alarm with the sprinkler head. The transfer line assembly includes a fire-resistant transfer line connected the alarm and to a multi-port coupling. The multi-port coupling also connects to an existing water fixture. The transfer line assembly is unclosable. The housing assembly has a housing with a vertical span of about 3-12 inches. The sprinkler head and alarm are mounted to the housing assembly and the transfer line assembly is connected to the housing assembly. The transfer line assembly connects to the sprinkler head directly as well as through the alarm. When water is provided to the coupling and the sprinkler head activates, water flows through the transfer line, activating the alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2017
    Inventor: William E. Akers
  • Patent number: 9573008
    Abstract: A fire suppression system including at least one heat-sensing device attached to a CPU-controlled sprinkler, which upon detection of a heat signature, activates the sprinkler to selectively dispense water from a fire sprinkler system pipe or a fire suppressant contained within a canister from a nozzle directly aimed at the source of the heat signature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Inventor: Frank Fletcher
  • Patent number: 9518678
    Abstract: An electrical feedback device (6) of a valve (1) is provided for feeding back the position of a hand wheel (4) of the valve (1) and thus the position of a shut-off member of the valve (1). The electrical feedback device (6) can be mounted in a spindle housing (13) of a housing upper part (2) of the valve (1). The electrical feedback device is configured so that the rotational movement of the hand wheel (4) is converted into a linear movement of a trip cam (45). The electrical feedback device (6) has a gearwheel (43) which is driven by a screw thread (42) which is mounted on a ring (41).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2016
    Assignee: Georg Fischer Rohrleitungssysteme AG
    Inventors: Stefan Bürgi, Jürgen Stumpp
  • Patent number: 9403046
    Abstract: In one implementation, a computer-implemented method includes receiving, at a computer system, information that indicates that a fire has been detected in a building and that a fire suppression system within the building has begun dousing the fire; monitoring sensor information from one or more sensors located within the building; determining, by the computer system and based on the sensor information, whether the fire has been extinguished; activating, in response to determining that the fire has been extinguished, a feature to turn off a water supply to the building, the feature being presented on a computing device for a user who is associated with the building; receiving, after activating the feature and from the computing device, a command to turn off the water supply; and transmitting, by the computer system, a control signal that causes an electromechanical device to close a water valve within the building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2016
    Assignee: WWTemplar LLC
    Inventors: Joseph Schmitt, Michael Kramer, Ronak Desai, Randall Kurtz
  • Patent number: 9375595
    Abstract: A Self-Testing and Self-Setting residential fire pump system for residential fire protection. The system is designed to boost pressure into a residential sprinkler system when water supply is insufficient to meet the sprinkler system's design requirements. The system comprises an in-line vertical multi-stage, centrifugal pump connected to an electric motor with horsepower ranges from ¾ to 10, a flow rate range of 15 gpm-200 gpm, and pressure ranges of 20 psi-238 psi. The system also comprises a controller assembly which is programmed to Self-Test and Self-Calibrate to most residential fire sprinkler systems with the push of a button, and a manifold made from brass or stainless steel pipe fittings connected to the pump's suction and discharge ports, allowing water to flow from an existing water supply through the pump to either the test loop or existing residential fire sprinkler system. The pump and controller can be mounted on an ABS base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2016
    Inventor: Jeremy Taylor
  • Patent number: 9349278
    Abstract: A dual release circuit comprises a plurality of pyrotechnic initiators electrically interconnected in series, a plurality of subcircuits electrically interconnected between the pyrotechnic initiators to form at least a first circuit route to electrically interconnect the plurality of pyrotechnic initiators and a second circuit route to electrically interconnect the pyrotechnic initiators, and a control unit electrically connected to the first circuit route and the second circuit route and configured to monitor a first parameter of the first circuit route, monitor a second parameter of the second circuit route, detect when at least one of the first parameter and the second parameter is outside of a specified parameter range, generate an alert indication according to the detection and be able to release the pyrotechnic initiators in response to a release request.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2016
    Assignee: Fireaway Inc.
    Inventor: Donald Murray
  • Patent number: 9227215
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for analyzing, maintaining or adjusting the chemical and physical structure of a CO2 Composite Spray in real-time. A light beam is passed through a portion of the CO2 Composite Spray plume, following which the transmitted light is collected using a detector and analyzed using a computer processing device. Light absorption, reflection and/or florescence data are correlated with CO2 particle density and particle size, spray plume length, organic and inorganic spray additives, and water vapor content. The treatment spray geometry is used to optimize and control a CO2 Composite Spray in precision cleaning, machining, and cooling processes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2016
    Assignee: CLEANLOGIC LLC
    Inventors: David Jackson, Liviu Marian
  • Patent number: 9168407
    Abstract: A calibration and verification system and method for dynamically controlling sequential delivery of mixtures containing a fire suppression agent to detection locations to simulate an agent discharge during a flight operation of an aircraft and for allowing direct monitoring of the concentration amounts at the detection locations to adjust a testing operation accordingly. Each of the mixtures is prepared with a precise concentration amount of the agent. The system and method include a remote test sequence unit for determining an optimal testing time period during a flight operation to remotely control the discharge and monitoring of the agent. Prior to the optimal testing time period, an airflow at an altitude of the flight operation is drawn through each of a plurality of detectors to tare out the characteristics of a surrounding environment using a processor, thereby establishing a measurement baseline for each of the plurality of detectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2015
    Assignee: Ametek Ameron, LLC
    Inventors: Edwin R. Kho, Abdul N. Sitabkhan, Souvanh Bounpraseuth, Ramy S. Ghebrial
  • Patent number: 8997885
    Abstract: A cartridge monitoring system for use in a cartridge-operated fire suppression system having an enclosure with an opening, sidewalls, an interior space, a cover, and a regulator assembly having a cartridge-receiving opening for receiving a cartridge and a regulator mount. The system includes a fixture positioned in the interior space in a fixed position relative to the regulator assembly; an elongate member having a rotation point fixed to a hinge member, a free end, and an arm portion between the free end and the rotation point, with the elongate member being rotatable about the axis of rotation between a first position in which the free end of the elongate member is within the interior space and a second position in which the free end is outside of the interior space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Inventor: Alfred Krueger
  • Patent number: 8905152
    Abstract: Disclosed is a fire hose coupling apparatus for self powered lighting of an area where a fire fighter is engaged in fires suppression with a fire hose, and for providing real time environmental data to fire fighters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Generation Unlimited, LLC
    Inventors: Kenneth G. Kling, Arthur E. Brown
  • Patent number: 8887819
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a sprinkler with an integrated valve, and to a fire-extinguishing system using same. Conventional sprinklers are too sensitive to the outbreak of a fire, and operate even if no fire has broken out, which would lead to a large amount of damage. For this reason, conventional sprinklers are often prevented from being operated in advance. In addition, sprinklers do not operate even upon the outbreak of a fire when the sensitivities thereof are lowered, rendering the sprinklers useless.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Inventor: Sang-Sun Lee
  • Patent number: 8763711
    Abstract: A dry pipe sprinkler system comprises at least one sprinkler head (18); a control valve (10) operable to supply an extinguishant to the sprinkler head; a system of pipes (16) interconnecting the control valve and the sprinkler head, the pipe system comprising a control column (26) and a riser pipe (42); and a pressure control means (38) located downstream of the control valve and upstream of the sprinkler head; wherein the pipe system is arranged to form a manometer which contains a quantity of extinguishant up to a predetermined level (48) in the control column and in the riser pipe; wherein the manometer is arranged such that the creation of a pressure differential across the pressure control means results in a reduction in the extinguishant level in the control column and a rise in the extinguishant level in the riser pipe; and wherein the control valve is adapted to open to supply extinguishant to the sprinkler head when there is a change in the predetermined level of extinguishant in the control column a
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Building Research Establishment Ltd
    Inventor: John Nigel Stephens
  • Patent number: 8749373
    Abstract: Energy harvesting devices provide power to devices of emergency equipment stations (e.g., fire extinguisher station, fire alarm pull station, defibrillator station, etc.) distributed throughout a facility to monitor one or more internal or external conditions (e.g., identifiable objects detected near the station, presence of an obstruction restricting access to the station, etc.) and relay information about the monitored conditions to a central station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: en-Gauge, Inc.
    Inventor: Brendan T. McSheffrey
  • Patent number: 8727030
    Abstract: A trim manifold assembly includes an alarm block and a release block. The alarm block is in communication with a fire suppressant fluid supply and defines a first alarm passage in communication with an alarm sensor. The release block is coupled to the alarm block and includes a drain passage and a first control passage. The first control passage is in communication with the fire suppressant fluid supply and a pressure-actuated system control valve to control communication between the fire suppressant fluid supply and the sprinkler system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: The Viking Corporation
    Inventor: Shawn J. Feenstra
  • Patent number: 8701709
    Abstract: A water supply control system for use with a fire hydrant comprises a four-way valve assembly having a first inlet port for coupling to a nozzle of the fire hydrant via a fire hose, the four-way valve assembly operable to selectively open and close the inlet and outlet ports according to an operating mode of the four-way valve assembly, a stable and sturdy platform substantially supporting the weight of the four-way valve assembly, a flexible tether strap secured to the platform at a first end and having a fastener at a second end for releasably coupling to the fire hydrant, a status indicator mounted on the four-way valve assembly operable to provide a visual indication of the operation mode of the four-way valve assembly, and a scene light mounted on the four-way assembly operable to provide high-intensity illumination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: ROM Acquisition Corporation
    Inventors: Neocles G. Athanasiades, Kiam Meng Toh, John E. McLoughlin
  • Publication number: 20140020914
    Abstract: Control system for fire prevention facilities, being the type of facilities mounted on buildings and warehouses mounting at least one pressure group and/or one equipped fire hydrant and/or one fire extinguisher comprising at least one pressure group (1) and at least one equipped fire hydrant (5) equipped with a pressure gauge (2-2?) provided with a LED light (3-3?) and communication means, via radio (4-4?) or wiring, as well as at least one fire extinguisher (6) equipped with a pressure gauge (2?) provided with a LED light (3?) and communication means, via radio (4?) or wiring; a control centre (7) with, at least one first computer (8) and a database (9). With this, a continuous monitoring of the proper state of all the components of the fire prevention facility is achieved and at the moment that a failure occurs, it is known.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2013
    Publication date: January 23, 2014
    Inventors: Carolina VILAS BLANCO, Hector GIL SAN JOSE
  • Publication number: 20130341053
    Abstract: A fire extinguishing system prevents fires or other emergency conditions on a heating device, such as a stove. The system uses sensors to detect the emergency and alert an operator. The system dumps fire suppressant material onto the heating device. The system also may shut-off power to the heating device. An alarm circuit and associated functionality assures the system is in working order by using diagnostic tests and other checks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2013
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Inventors: J. Paul ROUSE, Richard BOLACK, Charles P. SCHAEFER
  • Patent number: 8590631
    Abstract: The invention relates to a railway vehicle comprising a fire-fighting system having a supply container for extinguishing agent, a system of pipes, means for dispensing extinguishing agent, and a pressure-generating means. To improve the reliability of this system, it is proposed that the pressure-generating means be coupled to a compressed-air supply belonging to the railway vehicle, that a quiescent pressure can be generated in the system of pipes with the help of the pressure-generating means, and that a case of fire can be detected by means of a pressure drop in the system of pipes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: FOGTEC Brandschutz GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Dirk Sprakel, Roger Dirksmeier, Max Lakkonen
  • Patent number: 8459369
    Abstract: A hazard control system according to various aspects of the present invention is configured to deliver a control material in response to detection of a hazard and signal a secondary hazard detection system that an event has occurred. In one embodiment, the hazard control system comprises a pressure tube having an internal pressure that is configured to leak in response to exposure to heat. The leak changes the internal pressure and generates a pneumatic signal. A valve may be coupled to the pressure tube and be configured to release the control material from a container is response to the pneumatic signal. A second valve may also be coupled to the pressure tube and be configured to provide a signal to the secondary hazard detection system in response to the pneumatic signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Firetrace USA, LLC
    Inventors: William A. Eckholm, Matthew Sampson
  • Patent number: 8307906
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for converting a fire suppression system from a single interlock electric or double interlock electro-pneumatic system to a single interlock pneumatic system which draws no electrical power. A pneumatic actuator is in fluid communication with a pressurized piping network and a control valve controlling flow of fire suppressant to the network. The pneumatic actuator is isolated from the piping network by a check valve and a latching solenoid valve. In the event of a power failure the latching solenoid valve is opened, placing the pneumatic actuator in fluid communication with the piping network. Electrical power is drawn only to change the state of the latching solenoid valve, it otherwise draws no power. When the latching solenoid valve is open the pneumatic actuator controls actuation of the control valve, and triggers the control valve when there is a pressure change in the piping network indicative of a fire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Victaulic Company
    Inventors: William J. Reilly, Kevin J. Blease, Matthew J. Puzio
  • Publication number: 20120247791
    Abstract: A pressure gauge 20 includes a diaphragm 36 having a first side 64 and a second side 66 and occupying a first state or a second state as a function of a pressure of a fluid 59 in contact with the first side 64. A sensor 68 communicable with the second side 66 of the diaphragm 36 senses the first state or the second state to produce a signal which is processed by a circuit 40 to produce an output. An indicator 42 provides an output representing the first state or the second state of the diaphragm 36 based on the output from the circuit 40.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2009
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Inventors: Andrzej E. Kuczek, Joseph B. Wysocki, Thierry Carriere
  • Publication number: 20120055686
    Abstract: A condensate collector arrangement for a dry pipe sprinkler system comprises a collection chamber and an upstream valve and a downstream valve with an anti-trip arrangement for preventing the upstream valve and the downstream valve to be open at the same time and preferably includes an arrangement to indicate the presence of condensate and a lock for the anti-trip arrangement and an alarm which may be selectively deactivated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2010
    Publication date: March 8, 2012
    Applicant: AGF Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: George McHUGH, IV
  • Patent number: 8122968
    Abstract: A sprinkler system comprises a network of CPVC conduits and a plurality of sprinklers. The system includes an electrically activated solenoid control valve to allow fluid to flow in the pipe network. One or more fire detectors operate independently of the condition of the sprinklers. Upon detection of an incipient fire situation, a fire detector sends an electrical signal to cause activation of the control valve. Upon activation of the control valve, fire suppression fluid is caused to flow through the conduits before the incipient fire situation matures into a sprinkler-triggering event. The cooling effect of fluid flowing through the conduit enables the conduit to resist structural failure prior to sprinkler deployment. The control valve may be disposed at a remote location in the sprinkler line and be operable as part of an inspector's test connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: Lubrizol Advanced Materials, Inc.
    Inventor: Gary L. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20110266010
    Abstract: A multifunctional portable fire extinguisher system comprising: a multifunctional portable fire extinguisher with a handgun configuration that sprays fire-extinguishing liquid stored therein through a spraying portion to the outside in accordance with the actuation of a trigger; and a multifunctional portable fire extinguisher case including a housing for housing the multifunctional portable fire extinguisher and a protective cover for protecting the multifunctional portable fire extinguisher housed in the housing. The housing of the multifunctional portable fire extinguisher case includes: a first sensor unit for detecting the temperature, gas, smoke, and power failure, and for generating first detection data; and a first short range wireless communication unit for performing short range wireless communication with the multifunctional portable fire extinguisher.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Inventor: Yun-Beom Kang
  • Publication number: 20110166714
    Abstract: A water flow control system ensures that water does not undesirably flow through water lines of the premises when the premises is unoccupied or when water usage is not desired (e.g., during sleeping hours). The water flow control system is generally operable with an alarm system to control water flow through the water lines of the premises. For example, the alarm system may include a user interface operable to receive input that establishes a state of occupancy for the premises and arms the alarm system. A sensor may detect occupancy of the premises regardless of the established state of occupancy. The water flow control system communicates with the sensors of to determine the actual occupancy within the premises and restrict the water flow to the premises when it is not desired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2011
    Publication date: July 7, 2011
    Inventor: Michael S. Stachnik
  • Patent number: 7953503
    Abstract: A method for operating a process plant, in which a number of alarm notifications for indicating non-compliant operating events of the process plant are generated at process level. Alarm notifications which can be generated during the operation of the process plant are defined. At least a number of the generatable alarm notifications are assigned, in each case at least a first value or a second value as a dependency value. A current process state of the process plant is determined and depending on the determined process state, those alarm notifications to which the first value was assigned as a dependency value are not indicated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Oliver Thurau
  • Patent number: 7907048
    Abstract: A fire extinguisher accessory device for providing oral instructions for using a fire extinguisher comprising a housing, a digital memory circuit disposed inside the housing, wherein the digital memory circuit can provide oral instructions for using the fire extinguisher such as “pull,” “aim,” “squeeze,” and “sweep”; a speaker disposed on the front surface of the housing; an amplifier disposed inside the housing; and a pressure switch operatively connected to the housing via a lead, wherein when the pressure switch is compressed, the digital memory circuit is activated and provides oral instructions for using the fire extinguisher.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Inventor: Jeffrey P. Werner
  • Publication number: 20110048745
    Abstract: A water flow detection device is provided in which strength and water proof performance of the switch box that protects a switch or the like of the water flow detection device are improved and the workability of wiring work of signal line and checking work is good. In the water flow detection device, the inside of the main body has a check valve structure, and a signal output means for detecting opening of a valve body and outputting a signal is contained in a housing connected to the main body. The housing includes a base and a cover. The base includes a first surface that is a surface connecting to the main body and a second surface formed by extending and bending the first surface. The cover is engaged with an edge of the first surface opposite to the second surface and covers the signal output means. A fixing means of the cover is provided at one position in a marginal edge of the second surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2009
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Inventor: Yukinori Karihara
  • Patent number: 7891435
    Abstract: An Apparatus for remote inspection of emergency equipment at one or a system of emergency equipment stations includes, e.g., at each emergency equipment station: a detector for detection of the presence of an obstruction to viewing of or access to the emergency equipment station; and an electronic circuit in communication between the detector and a remote central station for issue of a signal to the remote central station upon detection of the obstruction to viewing of or access to the emergency equipment station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: en-Gauge, Inc.
    Inventors: John J. McSheffrey, John J. McSheffrey, Jr., Brendan T. McSheffrey
  • Patent number: 7891241
    Abstract: An apparatus for remote inspection of fire extinguishers at one or a system of fire extinguisher stations includes, e.g., at each fire extinguisher station: a detector for lack of presence of a fire extinguisher in its installed position at the fire extinguisher station; a detector for out-of-range pressure of contents of the fire extinguisher at the fire extinguisher station; a detector for an obstruction to viewing of or access to the fire extinguisher at the fire extinguisher station; and a device for transmission of inspection report information from the fire extinguisher station to a remote central station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: en-Gauge, Inc.
    Inventors: John J. McSheffrey, Brendan T. McSheffrey
  • Patent number: 7836966
    Abstract: An arrangement for testing a fire suppression sprinkler system includes a conduit for supplying a flow of fire suppression fluid to at least one sprinkler. A sensor is configured to sense the flow of the fire suppression fluid to the at least one sprinkler. The sensor has a first condition indicative of a predetermined volume of flow of the suppression fluid to the at least one sprinkler and a second condition indicative of a volume of flow of the fire suppression fluid to the at least one sprinkler less than the predetermined volume of flow. An actuator causes the sensor to be in the first condition or the second condition. A signaler provides an indication to a user that the sensor is in at least one of the first condition and the second condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: AGF Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: George J. McHugh, George McHugh, IV, legal representative, George McHugh, IV, James P. McHugh
  • Patent number: 7726411
    Abstract: An apparatus for remote inspection of fire extinguishers at one or a system of fire extinguisher stations includes, e.g., at each fire extinguisher station: a detector for lack of presence of a fire extinguisher in its installed position at the fire extinguisher station; a detector for out-of-range pressure of contents of the fire extinguisher at the fire extinguisher station; a detector for an obstruction to viewing of or access to the fire extinguisher at the fire extinguisher station; and a device for communication of inspection report information by wireless signal between the fire extinguisher station and a remote central station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: en-Gauge, Inc.
    Inventors: John J. McSheffrey, Jr., Brendan T. McSheffrey