Mount, Cabinet Or Guard Patents (Class 169/51)
  • Publication number: 20080257567
    Abstract: The invention features an apparatus and method for positioning and supporting a sprinkler head in a ceiling, floor, or wall. In one aspect of the invention, a sprinkler head may be received by a sleeve extending through a broad surface of the plate. The plate may be configured to be removably attached to a support structure in the ceiling, floor, or wall and having an exterior surface exposed to the room or the plate may be attached to a decorative panel which is configured to be removably attached to a support structure in the ceiling, floor, or wall and having an exterior surface exposed to the room. The sleeve may be defined by an opening in the plate or it may be a separate structure permanently or removably attached to the plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2007
    Publication date: October 23, 2008
    Inventors: Norman J. MacDonald, Peter M. Macdonald, Paul S.F. Silcox
  • Patent number: 7431100
    Abstract: A fire fighting tool includes an elongated hollow cylindrical nozzle having a plurality of openings surrounding the nozzle, a tubular member and a coupling for connecting the tubular member to a hose. The tool also includes a mounting member for positioning the nozzle within an interior of a structure. The mounting member includes a base, an upper member and a pair of rotatable clamping members adjustably mounted on the mounting member for engaging inner and outer surfaces of a wall. The mounting member and nozzle extend through an opening in the wall for spraying water or other fire suppressant onto the fire. The tool also includes a rotatable heat shield for protecting a fireman from heat and smoke and a handle for carrying the tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Inventor: Zafer J. Al-Osaimi
  • Publication number: 20080190627
    Abstract: The present invention provides a device for protecting an inner space of an object against fire, comprising: —a housing provided with at least one passage opening;—an aerosol-forming extinguishing element arranged in the housing and which comprises: a container for holding extinguishing material which can be activated at a fixed activating temperature;—at least one outlet opening which can be connected to the passage opening in the housing and along which the activated extinguishing material can be carried into the inner space of the object so as to extinguish the fire;—an activating element for bringing at least part of the extinguishing material to the activation temperature;—at least one detection unit arranged in or close to the housing for detecting at least one physical and/or chemical parameter representative of fire in the inner space;—a control unit arranged in the housing for causing thermal activation of the extinguishing element by the activating element when a preset activation value of the detec
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2005
    Publication date: August 14, 2008
    Inventors: Fernandus Cornelis Koelewijn, Pieter Plaizier
  • Patent number: 7389827
    Abstract: A discharge assembly used with a fire suppression delivery system comprises a nozzle having an outer nozzle surface and inlet and discharge ends. The inlet end receives fire suppression agent and the discharge end dispenses fire suppression agent through an orifice. A blow-off cap has an open-ended cavity shaped to receive the discharge end of the nozzle and cover the orifice. The cavity includes an interior cap surface located in close proximity to the outer nozzle surface of the nozzle when the blow-off cap is mounted on the discharge end of the nozzle. A receptacle is formed in at least one of the outer nozzle surface of the nozzle and the interior cap surface of the blow-off cap. A retention element fits within the receptacle and engages the outer nozzle surface and interior cap surface, providing a predetermined amount of retention resistance to retain the blow-off cap on the nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Assignee: Ansul Incorporated
    Inventor: Richard J. Biehl
  • Publication number: 20080053667
    Abstract: Improvements to a portable fire extinguisher where the improvements relate to a system where the owner of the extinguisher can service and maintain their fire protection. Systems in place today require the servicing of a third party. The service companies (third parties) are charged with maintaining the system. Further Improvements include an anti-bridging mechanism that is articulated from the exterior of the chamber to fluff, mix or stir the powder within the chamber to keep it in a liquefied state. The improvements further include a wall mounting bracket that reduces tampering with the extinguisher, an automatic fluffing motor and manual fluffing wheel with a chuck for use with a drill. These features extend the service intervals while maintaining the fire extinguisher in a ready condition. The fire extinguisher is construction of components that are interchangeable and provide equal operation for left and right handed people.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2007
    Publication date: March 6, 2008
    Inventors: Hector Rousseau, Randy Rousseau
  • Patent number: 7331399
    Abstract: A fire protection sprinkler system for metal buildings has horizontally oriented sprinkler heads mounted on water supply lines extending along each side of rafters supporting the roof of a metal building so as to provide protection for bays between adjacent rafters having a width up to 25 feet or more. The sprinkler heads have a vertical part facing an outlet in a sprinkler body and a hood-shaped part supported from the vertical part and having downwardly inclined side walls and a downwardly inclined front wall. The deflector arrangement is supported from the sprinkler body by a pair of frame arms which converge at a boss on which the vertical part is mounted and another deflector part having rearwardly inclined arms extending horizontally, downwardly at an angle and substantially vertically, is supported between the boss and the vertical part of the deflector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2008
    Assignee: The Reliable Automatic Sprinkler Co. Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas L. Multer
  • Patent number: 7331401
    Abstract: Fire that has started in an enclosed space in an aircraft is smothered by closing or at least partly closing any air flow inlet and any air flow outlet of the enclosed space in response to a temperature rise caused by a fire in the enclosed space such as a toilet or crew quarters, galley cabinets, or the like. For this purpose fireproof, intumescent material is installed next to and along any apertures or openings in the enclosed space. When the temperature in the enclosed space exceeds the expansion temperature of the fireproof intumescent material the material expands into these apertures, thereby sealing or at least partly sealing these apertures, whereby air and thus oxygen access to the fire is reduced or even prevented, thereby smothering the fire. Preferably a guide surface guides the expanding intumescent material into the apertures or openings at least when the expansion starts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2008
    Assignee: Airbus Deutschland GmbH
    Inventor: Axel Bobenhausen
  • Patent number: 7299883
    Abstract: An apparatus for treating a fire in a multi-floored building, a method of treating fire in a multi-floored building, and a portable apparatus for assembly and subsequent treating of a fire in a multi-floored building are disclosed. The apparatus, method and system include a curvilinear tubular structure and a bracing system coupled to a source of a fluid pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2007
    Inventor: Michael Wielgat
  • Patent number: 7287735
    Abstract: A mounting bracket having a living hinge operable to enable mounting straps of the mounting bracket to move between retracted and extended positions. In the extended position, the mounting straps are configured to extend around and retain a fire extinguisher. In the retracted position, the mounting straps are removed from the fire extinguisher. The living hinge may include a continuous piece of material that extends between the mounting straps and a base member of the mounting bracket to which the mounting straps are coupled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Assignee: Walter Kidde Portable Equipment, Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis G. Heerdt, Y. Christen Sperry
  • Patent number: 7243890
    Abstract: A dry powder fire extinguisher recharging system charges and discharges a bottle with dry powder. The system includes a frame unit and various components associated with it, such as a clamp assembly to clamp a bottle assembly. The bottle assembly has a bottle in a pre-discharge or a discharge condition, and a valve. There are also components including locking plungers, a torque idler to torque and untorque the valve, a fill valve to recharge the bottle assembly, a fill gauge to pressurize the bottle assembly to the required pressures, a recharge line to charge the bottle assembly with the pressurizing agent, a discharge line to discharge a fully charged bottle, and a socket and an extension. The system also has a valve service area to re-service the valve, and a sprayer gun to remove dry powder residue from the valve during re-servicing of the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2007
    Assignee: United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Steven M. Hennessey, William S. Simard
  • Patent number: 7234534
    Abstract: A firefighting vehicle includes a frame, a fluid pump, and a body having a compartment. In one embodiment, a drive line of the pump passes through a transverse cross member of the frame. In another embodiment, the body includes opposite side sections sandwiching the pump therebetween. In another embodiment, the vehicle includes a pumphouse module in which the body is mounted so as to move in unison with the body relative to the frame. In another embodiment, the vehicle includes a control panel operably coupled to the pump and extending through an opening in the compartment. In another embodiment, the compartment includes a wall having a C-shaped bulkhead.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Assignee: Pierce Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Benjamin I. Froland, Michael R. Moore, Stanley W. Schultz, Kenneth P. Sebo, Todd S. Stecker, David N. Budiac
  • Patent number: 7213319
    Abstract: A dry sprinkler installation and sealing device for a cold environment is disclosed. The dry sprinkler installation includes a supply conduit having a first end adapted to communicate with a fire retardant fluid source and a second end supporting a sprinkler head. The supply conduit is dimensioned to extend through an opening in a wall of a cold environment, e.g., a freezer ceiling. A flexible sealing device is positioned about the supply conduit adjacent an exterior surface of the cold environment. A first end of the sealing device is secured about the supply conduit and a second end of the sealing device is secured to an exterior surface of the cold environment. The flexible sealing device allows for radial and axial adjustments to the supply conduit and sprinkler head without compromising the integrity of the sealing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Assignee: Tyco Fire Products LP
    Inventors: Manuel R. Silva, Jr., Robert M. Cordell, David Stevens
  • Patent number: 7171736
    Abstract: A method of assembling and storing a portable stand for a fire extinguisher having a case, a pylon and a base. The case has a rear wall and a bottom wall. The pylon has a front surface, an open bottom with an outer flange and a top that is narrower than the outer flange. In addition, the base is generally rectangular and has a central opening in its upper and lower surfaces. The assembly method involves inserting the top of the pylon upwardly through the central opening until the outer flange engages the base, mounting the case onto the front surface of the pylon and positioning the fire extinguisher inside the case such that it rests on the bottom wall. The storage method comprises detaching the case from the pylon of each stand, separating the pylon and the base of each stand, stacking the pylons and stacking the bases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Inventor: Add Kennon
  • Patent number: 7147062
    Abstract: A fire fighting monitor includes a stationary element and a rotating element for directing a water stream at variable trajectories. Electrical components, such as drive motors, are mounted on the rotating element and are connected to electrical sources remote from the monitor. A wire management system is provided for the monitor that protects the electrical wiring while accommodating relative rotation between the stationary and rotating elements of the monitor. In one embodiment, the wire management system includes a two-piece wiring skirt with a first portion connected to the stationary element and a second portion connected to the rotating element. The two portions define a circumferential channel and associated openings for passage of a wiring cable. The cable incorporates a 180° bend within the channel that travels around the channel as the cable coils and un-coils within the channels of the two portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Assignee: Task Force Tips, Inc.
    Inventors: David J. Kolacz, Robert W. Steingass
  • Patent number: 7081815
    Abstract: A system for remotely monitoring the status of one or more fire extinguishers includes means for sensing at least one parameter of each of the fire extinguishers; means for selectively transmitting the sensed parameters along with information identifying the fire extinguishers from which the parameters were sensed; and means for receiving the sensed parameters and identifying information for the fire extinguisher or extinguishers at a common location. Other systems and methods for remotely monitoring the status of multiple fire extinguishers are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Assignee: Battelle Memorial Institute
    Inventors: Larry Runyon, Wayne M. Gunter, Ronald W. Gilbert
  • Patent number: 7025285
    Abstract: A fire sprinkler discharge control device for preventing fluids from being emitted from a fire sprinkler without having to turn off a fluid supply to the fire sprinkler. The control device may be formed from one or more bladders adapted to contain a fluid and one or more valves for passing fluids into and out of the bladder. The bladder may be adapted to fit between a support structure of a fire sprinkler and an exhaust port. Once in position, the bladder may be inflated to cut off fluid flow from an exhaust port of the fire sprinkler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Assignee: University of Florida Research Foundation, Inc.
    Inventors: Jordan R. Silverstein, Alejandro Serrano
  • Patent number: 6981554
    Abstract: An expandable fire-fighting fluid container is arranged for receiving a fire fighting fluid. The container is comprised of end walls, a bottom between the end walls, and movable side walls connected to the end walls and the bottom with expandable seals. Actuators are attached between the side walls and the end walls. The actuators are powered by an engine attached to the container. The side walls are retractable inward for reducing container width for traveling on public roads, and expandable outward for increasing fluid capacity at a fire site. A pump is attached to the container for pumping the fluid to douse a fire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2006
    Inventor: James A. Klump
  • Patent number: 6973975
    Abstract: A compressed air/foam fire fighting system which is sufficiently compact to be carried on the bed of a pick-up truck includes a water tank, a pump for providing water at substantial pressure to a water conduit, an engine for driving the pump, a foam reservoir including a bladder tank connected to the pump, an air compressor, an engine for driving the air compressor, a differential pressure valve connected in the water conduit, a metering valve adjustable to supply a desired proportion of foam concentrate to water connected across the differential pressure valve, an air valve for controlling the amount of air from said compressor, and an air injection venturi for mixing air into a water/foam concentrate. A two-way valve connected between the tank and the pump is movable between a first position where water is pumped from the water tank and a second or suction position where water is drawn from an outside tank or other source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Assignee: Robwen Inc.
    Inventors: Keith Adamson, John R. Grindley, Robert M. Grindley
  • Patent number: 6971451
    Abstract: A firefighting penetration tool for penetrating a surface and ejecting a fluid into an area on fire. The firefighting tool includes a weighted head, a planar surface area affixed to the weighted head and an interchangeable penetrating body projecting from the planar surface area. The penetrating body has a chamber leading to a plurality of apertures. A hollow handle extends from the weighted head. The hollow handle is connected to a hose connected to an extinguishing agent supply, such as a fire truck. The penetrating body is used for piercing a surface. The extinguishing agent supply pumps fluid through the hose into the handle and ejects fluid through the plurality of apertures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Inventor: Joel T. Schmieg
  • Patent number: 6889776
    Abstract: An apparatus is for use with a container of liquid that is suspended from an aircraft flying over a ground target area. The container has an outlet through which the liquid is dropped from the container. The apparatus includes a diffuser configured to diffuse the liquid exiting the container outlet horizontally outward beyond the container into the air above the ground target area, whereby the liquid is diffused over a correspondingly wide area. The liquid can be fire extinguishing liquid, and the ground target area can be a forest fire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: The University of Hong Kong
    Inventor: Kwok Pun Cheung
  • Patent number: 6851483
    Abstract: A fire suppression system for a substantially enclosed area comprises: a plurality of solid propellant aerosol generators disposed about the enclosed area for exhausting a fire suppressant aerosol that is substantially void of an ozone depleting material into the enclosed area. Each aerosol generator including an ignition element for igniting the solid propellant thereof. Each ignition element of the aerosol generators being coupled to a fire control unit which is operative to ignite the solid propellant of at least one aerosol generator utilizing the ignition element thereof to exhaust fire suppressant aerosol into the enclosed area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: Universal Propulsion Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald E. Olander, Michael L. Schall
  • Patent number: 6786426
    Abstract: A fire-fighting monitor for directing the flow of fluid from a mount includes a monitor housing having an inlet, which is adapted to receive the mount for receiving fluid from the mount, and an outlet in fluid communication with the inlet for discharging fluid from the housing. The monitor also includes a latch mechanism for releasably engaging the mount. The latch mechanism extends through the housing for releasably engaging the mount. The monitor also includes an indicator means for providing a positive indication of when the latch mechanism is fully engaged with the mount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Assignee: Elkhart Brass Manufacturing Co.
    Inventor: James M. Trapp
  • Publication number: 20040163828
    Abstract: A fire sprinkler discharge control device for preventing fluids from being emitted from a fire sprinkler without having to turn off a fluid supply to the fire sprinkler. The control device may be formed from one or more bladders adapted to contain a fluid and one or more valves for passing fluids into and out of the bladder. The bladder may be adapted to fit between a support structure of a fire sprinkler and an exhaust port. Once in position, the bladder may be inflated to cut off fluid flow from an exhaust port of the fire sprinkler.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2003
    Publication date: August 26, 2004
    Inventors: Jordan R. Silverstein, Alejandro Serrano
  • Patent number: 6769493
    Abstract: A lighter-than-air airship system, having a multitude of uses, with a primary purpose being the dispensing of water over a raging fire, where access by personnel and ground equipment is difficult. The airship system comprises an aerodynamically configured structure having a semi-rigid keel or skeleton, where lift is provided in part by helium, with the keel mounting a liquid management mechanism preferably consisting of a reservoir open to the outside for resupply of liquid or water, a conduit leading to a holding tank, and a piping distribution and nozzle assembly below the airship system to spray or dispense the liquid or water, like an artificial rain, over selected areas to control or extinguish the raging fire. Alternate systems are provided for replenishing or filling the holding tank from ground locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2004
    Assignee: Wetzone Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Raoul G. Fima, Thomas Gagliano, Ralph E. Pope
  • Publication number: 20040135002
    Abstract: Dosage of an active agent in a fluid, suitable for injection in the human or animal body, is achieved by spraying the fluid by means of a spray device (1), in the form of a mist or jet onto a mucous membrane of the body, for example in the tonsillar or nasal region. The spraying device (1) comprises a connection adapter (3) with an annular seal (11) for the container (9), in particular in the form of an ampoule. Other fluids can equally be sprayed in a corresponding manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Klaus-Dieter Beller
  • Patent number: 6742599
    Abstract: A fire extinguisher selectively operable either manually or automatically is disclosed. The fire extinguisher comprises a container (100), a body (200), a discharge nozzle (600), an operating rod assembly (300), and an operating lever (400). The container (100) contains an extinguishing medium (110) under a pressure. The body (200) is fitted to the upper end of the container (100) and has a passage for releasing the extinguishing medium (110) under a predetermined condition. The discharge nozzle (600) is fitted to one portion of the body (200) to communicate with the passage and discharges the extinguishing medium (110). The operating rod assembly (300) manually controls an opening of the passage by applying a predetermined external force or automatically controls an opening of the passage under a predetermined temperature condition e operating lever (400) is located at the other portion of the body (200) and applies the predetermined external force to the operating rod assembly (300).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Inventor: Yun-Sang Nam
  • Patent number: 6742305
    Abstract: An apparatus, a wildfire protection method for houses and other structures from the destructive forces of a wildland fire. The current form of the preferred embodiment consists of a highly fireproof material, which is pre-fitted to cover each area of structure including gables or dormers one section at a time. The material is contained on a fireproof deployment apparatus such as a roller means having a retractable mechanism. The deployment apparatus is contained and secured within a housing, this housing being supported by firmly mounting it to strategic areas of the architectural structure. Once installed, deployment of the fireproof covering material is accomplished by unrolling the material from one side of the fireproof deployment apparatus. Each pre-fitted section of fireproof material contains reinforced edges, which are fitted with multiple fasteners by which to attach one section of said fireproof material to another as each is deployed from a series of apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Inventors: William Rogers, Christie Holliday
  • Patent number: 6651751
    Abstract: A device for securing a fire extinguisher to a welding tank is disclosed. In the preferred embodiment, an adjustable retaining strap is connected to a fire extinguisher hanger having opposing flanged members that define a receiving area for the neck of a fire extinguisher. Each flanged member has sections of stepped thickness to provide a press fit for the neck of the fire extinguisher into the receiving area. A utility hook is also attached to the retaining band for hanging hoses, welding masks and respirators. A utility box is also attached to the retaining band to provide storage for smaller objects such as welding tips. Alternative embodiments provide a retaining clip for receiving and retaining the fire extinguisher and a retaining clamp for receiving the welding tank. Other alternative embodiments provide a collar and hanging assembly for attaching the fire extinguisher hanger to the welding tank. A securing strap is also disclosed for securing collared embodiments to the welding tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Inventor: Michael W. Kluczynski
  • Patent number: 6641286
    Abstract: There is provided an illuminated mounting system for storing a small, domestic type fire extinguisher in a manner allowing quick location and retrieval in the event of a fire. A rear section of a housing is plugged into a convenient electrical outlet and a fire extinguisher is mounted thereon. In a first embodiment, a front section of the housing, containing an illuminating beacon/nightlight and a rechargeable flashlight, hinges closed to secure the fire extinguisher in place. The mount/locator may be used as a flashlight either with or without the fire extinguisher in place. In a second embodiment, the illuminating beacon/nightlight and a rechargeable flashlight plug into a receptacle in the rear housing allowing use of the flashlight without disturbing the fire extinguisher. The second embodiment may also have one or more supplementary outlets which replace or supplement the receptacle into which the mount/locator is plugged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Inventor: William M. Hincher, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6619404
    Abstract: A fire fighting system is installed below deck in a passenger aircraft for protecting freight and baggage loading areas. The system has a fire extinguishing medium storage container connected through a pipe line to one or more medium discharge nozzles. A compartment such as a passenger and/or crew rest compartment installed below deck is linked to the system by a pipe line extension (10, 12, 13) connected to at least one additional fire extinguishing medium discharge nozzles in the compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Assignee: Airbus Deutschland GmbH
    Inventor: Thomas Grabow
  • Publication number: 20030164241
    Abstract: A system for placement in a ceiling of a room to provide a fluid to the room. A method for protecting a room from fire. The method comprises the steps of placing a primary profile in a ceiling of the room. A system for placement in a ceiling of a room to provide air to the room. A method for providing air to a room. A system for placement in a ceiling of a room to provide sound to the room. A method for providing sound to a room. A system for placement in a ceiling of a room to provide information to the room. A method for providing information to a room.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2002
    Publication date: September 4, 2003
    Inventor: Irwin Kotovsky
  • Publication number: 20030062175
    Abstract: A fire suppression system for a substantially enclosed area comprises: a plurality of solid propellant aerosol generators disposed about the enclosed area for exhausting a fire suppressant aerosol that is substantially void of an ozone depleting material into the enclosed area. Each aerosol generator including an ignition element for igniting the solid propellant thereof. Each ignition element of the aerosol generators being coupled to a fire control unit which is operative to ignite the solid propellant of at least one aerosol generator utilizing the ignition element thereof to exhaust fire suppressant aerosol into the enclosed area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2002
    Publication date: April 3, 2003
    Inventors: Donald E. Olander, Michael L. Schall
  • Patent number: 6488098
    Abstract: A fire extinguishing access port includes a port and nozzle assembly where the nozzle has a plurality of radial outlets defining a pattern of dispersal for a fire extinguishing agent. According to a presently preferred embodiment, the port and nozzle assembly is dimensioned to be mounted in an existing mounting hole (e.g. a switch mounting hole) of an aircraft electrical panel with the nozzle residing in the rear of the panel and the port residing on the front of the panel. A plurality of different nozzles are provided for different electrical panels, each nozzle having a different pattern of dispersal. A fire extinguisher access port kit includes a plurality of threaded nozzles, each with different dispersal patterns, a plurality of threaded ports which mate with the nozzles, and a plurality of different length threaded tubes which mate with the nozzles and the ports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2002
    Assignee: Logo Tech Manufacturing Inc.
    Inventors: Robert E. Davis, Robert Fleece, Douglas Nielsen
  • Patent number: 6488099
    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: November 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2002
    Assignee: MIJA Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: John J. McSheffrey, Brendan T. McSheffrey
  • Publication number: 20020125016
    Abstract: An aerial fire suppression system that is used to put out major fires from the air. This invention is usually used in conjunction with a helicopter. This invention uses a constant flow of water to put out a major forest fires. The aerial fire suppression system uses a fire hose 14 to supply the helicopter with a constant flow of water. The other end of the fire hose connects to the hose boom unit 20. The hose boom unit 20 lifts the fire hose above the trees to create an obstruction free path from the helicopter and the water supply. The hose boom unit 20 supply water by connecting to a fire truck, water truck, fire hydrant, lake or any water supply or fire suppression solution. This invention may also be used to clean up oil spills.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2001
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Inventor: Phillip Lorenzo Cofield
  • Patent number: 6405805
    Abstract: An improved portable fire hydrant that can operate a water main valve disposed within a water main to produce water for fighting a fire by rotating a valve stem coupled to the water main valve includes an extension through which water can flow when the fire hydrant is coupled to the water main. The portable fire hydrant may also include a sealing mechanism disposed on the extension that seals the portable fire hydrant to the water main. A valve operator may also be coupled to the portable fire hydrant and attached to a valve rod that extends down through the extension of the portable fire hydrant. Disposed on the end of the valve rod may be a coupling mechanism for coupling the valve operator to the water main valve. When the portable fire hydrant is attached to the water main, the valve operator of the portable fire hydrant is coupled to the water main valve so that manipulation of the valve operator will cause the water main valve to reposition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2002
    Inventor: Wayne Edwin Miller
  • Publication number: 20020029891
    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: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2001
    Publication date: March 14, 2002
    Applicant: Mija Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: John J. McSheffrey, Brendan T. McSheffrey
  • Patent number: 6311779
    Abstract: A portable fire extinguisher assembly includes a fire extinguisher with a tank containing fire extinguishing material, a valve for metering release of the fire extinguishing material, and a gauge displaying pressure within the tank, and a docking station in communication with the fire extinguisher. An electronic circuit in communication with the fire extinguisher and the docking station issues a signal upon detection of predetermined conditions, including at least one predetermined internal condition and at least one predetermined external condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Assignee: Mija Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Brendan T. McSheffrey, John J. McSheffrey, Michael R. Levenson
  • Patent number: 6305620
    Abstract: A fire fighting monitor apparatus has a casing having a main inlet pipe for receiving water under pressure from a water source and a plurality of outlet arms extending from the inlet pie. Each of the outlet arms has an elbow formed therein. The casing has a main rotary joint formed therein for rotating the casing and the plurality of outlet arms. Each outlet arm has an outlet arm rotary joint therein positioned between the main inlet pipe and the outlet arm elbow for rotating a portion of each casing outlet arm. A swiveling nozzle is coupled to each outlet arm for directing water from each outlet arm separately. Each swiveling nozzle has a ball joint having a passageway therethrough and having a threaded collar thereover for tightening the swiveled nozzle into any outlet position desired. The main rotary joint has an annular rack gear engaging a worm gear having a handle thereon for rotating the main inlet pipe and the plurality of outlet nozzles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Inventor: Antonio B. Marchese
  • Patent number: 6302218
    Abstract: A portable fire extinguisher assembly includes a fire extinguisher with a tank containing fire extinguishing material, a valve for metering release of the fire extinguishing material, and a gauge displaying pressure within the tank, and a docking station in communication with the fire extinguisher. An electronic circuit in communication with the fire extinguisher and the docking station issues a signal upon detection of predetermined conditions, including at least one predetermined intenal condition and at least one predetermined external condition. The fire extinguisher electronic circuit includes cooperative male and female electrical/communication connection elements defined by the fire extinguisher and docking station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Assignee: Mija Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Brendan T. McSheffrey, John J. McSheffrey, Michael R. Levenson
  • Patent number: 6244353
    Abstract: A fire extinguishing device for extinguishing a fire from a stationary fire extinguisher. The fire extinguishing device includes a housing having a top wall. A peripheral wall is integrally coupled to and extending downwardly away from the top wall such that the housing has an open bottom side. A canister for disbursing a fire retardant material is securely coupled to an inner surface of the top wall such that a valve mechanically coupled to the canister is directed towards the open bottom side. The canister contains a fire retardant material in a respectively pressurized environment. Control circuitry for actuating the valve is securely coupled to an inner surface of the peripheral wall and is operationally coupled to the valve. A sensor for sensing relatively high heat is electronically coupled to the control circuitry. The sensor is securely attached to the peripheral wall. A plurality of fastening members removably fastens the bottom wall to a ceiling wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Inventor: Bromfield R. Greer
  • Patent number: 6230816
    Abstract: The invention concerns a combined support, in particular for an extinguisher, comprising a frame (11), a housing (12) for said extinguisher, handle (13) integral with said frame, catching surface (14) and legs (114, 152) for resting on a plane surface. The extinguisher housing is formed by several concentric rings (121 to 124), the top ring (121) comprising an open sector (8). In order to constitute a support for a torch nozzle (20) the device comprises an additional ring (17) fixed under the top ring (121), a V-shaped notch provided on said additional ring top edge and an inverted V-shaped notch provided on the top ring (121) bottom edge opposite the V-shaped notch. Said device improves safety conditions when a torch is being used on a work site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2001
    Assignee: Etablissement Cantonal d'Assurance
    Inventor: Armand Gremaud
  • Patent number: 6158519
    Abstract: A fire suppression method and apparatus has a sprinkler head support bracket which is installable immediately above a ceiling tile. The support bracket is configured with a plurality of openings such that multiple locations for the sprinkler head may be used and the exact "center of tile" installation of the sprinkler head can be accomplished with a wide variety of suspended ceiling assemblies and sprinkler heads. The support bracket rests on grid support members and arches over the ceiling tile. Hold down clips are provided to maintain the bracket in position relative to the grid support members. A pipe clamp is provided which is insertable within the bracket to retain a drop nipple within it. The drop nipple is adjustable relative to the horizontal to move it upwardly or downwardly relative to the ceiling tile. In this fashion, the vertical location of the sprinkler head can be adjusted depending upon the elevation of the ceiling tiles used and the style of sprinkler head used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Inventor: Alan P. Kretschmer
  • Patent number: 6131822
    Abstract: A protection device designed to protect pendent-type sprinkler heads includes a shroud member that removably encloses a selected sprinkler head and a positioning member that selectively maintains the shroud member in a preferred orientation with respect to the sprinkler head. An included tearing member facilitates removal of the shroud member; the tearing member is a flexible, inelastic member that, when pulled correctly, will tear the shroud member along a predetermined path. The shroud member, itself, is characterized by lines of perforation that cooperate with the tearing member to ease shroud member removal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Inventor: Robert E. Farmer, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6109360
    Abstract: A fire fighting monitor having a rotatable extension member for adjusting the elevation of an outlet attached to the extension member while maintaining the discharge direction of the outlet relative to the horizontal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Assignee: Premier Farnell Corp.
    Inventors: Thomas Mandzukic, Mark S. Saner
  • Patent number: 6056063
    Abstract: A thermo-controlled self-explosive fire extinguisher, which comprises a flat, rounded container having an outer thread around the periphery, a container holder having a bottom opening and an inner thread inside the bottom opening, and a fire extinguishing agent filled in the container. After installation of the container holder in a round hole on a board at the ceiling, the outer thread of the container is threaded into the inner thread inside the container holder and disposed substantially in flush with the ceiling. The fire extinguishing agent expands when hot, and the container body explodes when its inside pressure surpasses a predetermined level, causing the fire extinguishing agent to be spread out widely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Inventor: Chien-Ming Hung
  • Patent number: 6024177
    Abstract: An escutcheon locking ring for an automatic sprinkler head having an externally threaded section with a top portion having an engaging member extending therefrom comprises a ring having a plurality of tabs extending from the inner perimeter, and an outer perimeter having a plurality of escutcheon engaging fingers depending therefrom. The escutcheon engaging fingers are curved and are formed with sharp ends. When positioned between the bottom surface of the engaging member and the escutcheon, the sharp ends of the depending escutcheon engaging fingers penetrate the surface of the escutcheon. An attempt to unscrew the escutcheon from the sprinkler head causes the rotation of the ring until frictional contact is made between the extending tabs and the engaging member. Once frictional contact is achieved, a positive lock is formed preventing one from unscrewing the escutcheon from the sprinkler head. In an alternative embodiment, the extending tabs are replaced by extending U-shaped members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2000
    Assignee: The Viking Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas E. Winebrenner
  • Patent number: 5975475
    Abstract: A fire extinguisher holder provides for the removable retention of a fire extinguisher therein, for use in the home, office, or other immovable structure where the immobility of the structure precludes any requirement for positive clamping or attachment of the extinguisher in the holder. The present holder comprises a back panel, a base for supporting a fire extinguisher thereon, and an encircling element for precluding lateral movement of the extinguisher until it is lifted clear of the encircling element. The present extinguisher holder is constructed as a single, unitary structure and is devoid of any movable extinguisher retaining elements which would otherwise have to be manipulated in order to remove the extinguisher from the holder. The present holder allows a fire extinguisher held therein to be removed quickly and easily, without any requirement for releasing retaining straps and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Inventor: Gregg S. Chaplin
  • Patent number: 5947208
    Abstract: A fire extinguisher cabinet especially adapted for a residential-office installation which includes emergency lighting automatically energized when house power is interrupted, powered by a rechargeable battery in a battery storage-wiring junction box hung below the cabinet. A selectively turned on night light is also included. The cabinet includes a main housing piece molded integrally with a hinged door having a lightly colored panel allowing viewing of the fire extinguisher within. A mounting frame abutted against the inside of the wall panel is secured to an outside flange on the main housing piece. A sheet metal shielding housing is secured covering the inside of the main housing piece, attached to the mounting frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Inventor: Toan Huy Ha
  • Patent number: 5944114
    Abstract: Devices for constraining wildfires are disclosed. The first device is a free-standing hollow structure which contains at least one lower intake duct, a vertical duct, and an upper outlet duct. This device contains curved chambers which may have baffles. This device also provides an open container for the delivery of water to the fire in the form of steam. A second device is a free-standing structure which is anchored to the ground by lines attached to spikes and supporting legs. The upper portion of the device is curved toward the fire so as to direct the fire back upon itself. There is an arcuate baffle at approximately the midpoint of the device which serves to break up the heat wave. A third device is similar to the second device in design, but is made of folding sections for ease of storage and transportation. A fourth device comprises a fire-resistant sheet which may be draped over trees or structures or may be put on the ground to form a barrier to the fire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Inventor: Brent L. Farley