Abstract: A water bucket system having a water bucket is provided. The water bucket system comprises computer controlled loading of the water bucket from a water source, partial drop control means for controlling the drop of water from the water bucket onto a desired location, and variable flow rate control means for varying the flow of water from the water bucket. A water bucket for carrying water is also provided. The water bucket comprises a main support cable, a spreader plate secured to the main support cable, a plurality of secondary support cables secured to the spreader plate, a plurality of equally spaced webbing straps secured to the secondary support cables, a fabric envelope secured to the webbing straps, and a compression hoop secured to the webbing straps and the fabric envelope, and a valve secured to the fabric envelope.

Abstract: A firefighting apparatus is adapted for use in a host aircraft comprising a fuselage defining an interior and an exterior. The firefighting apparatus includes a pressurizeable retardant tank disposed in the interior of the host aircraft, the retardant tank being capable of roll-on and roll-off installation, an ejection tube in fluid communication with the retardant tank, and a door plug for mounting within a fuselage orifice in the host aircraft. The door plug provides for fluid communication of retardant from the retardant tank through the ejection tube to the exterior of the host aircraft. At least one sensor is operably connected to the firefighting apparatus to effect user-discernable data for effecting retardant delivery.

Abstract: A turret control system and method for a fire fighting vehicle is disclosed. The turret control system includes one or more control modules, such as an envelope control module, turret targeting module, a turret pan module, a turret deploy module, a turret store module. The preferred turret control system also provides improved turret control flexibility and improved operator feedback.

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.

Abstract: The invention employs a blower of the type used by commercial landscapers. The device has an engine mounted on a frame. Shoulder straps attached to the frame allow the user to wear the device on his back leaving the hands of the operator free to operate other tools such as a chain saw or perform other tasks. Also, wearing the device on the back makes it easier to transport the device over long distances to the source of the fire or backfire to be started. The device's blower generates a stream of air at high speeds. This stream of air can be used to feed a fire when the air is directed at a fire. When used to extinguish a fire, air from the blower is tapped from a point 180 degrees removed from the blower output and mixed with exhaust from the engine. This mixture is diverted through a Y-shaped valve into the airstream coming out of the blower. When the device is used to start backfires a fire is started.

Abstract: A turret control system includes one or more control modules, such as an envelope control module, turret targeting module, a turret pan module, a turret deploy module, a turret store module. The preferred turret control system also provides improved turret control flexibility and improved operator feedback.

Abstract: A fire fighting vehicle includes a turret and a turret controller. The turret includes a base which is coupled to the vehicle, and the turret is configured to rotate relative to the vehicle at the base. The turret controller is configured to use feedback control to control the movement of the turret from a first position where the turret is positioned at a first angle of rotation at the base to a second position where the turret is positioned at a second angle of rotation at the base, where the first and second angles are different.

Abstract: A firefighting bomblet includes a container having rigid supportive walls that together define a faceted-sphere shape, a cavity disposed inside the container and defined by the walls, and an opening in one of the walls for filling the cavity with a fire retardant. The bomblet can further include a weak seam formed in one of the walls, the weak seam being adapted to be more easily ruptured than the remainder of the walls. A method for aerial firefighting includes the step of dropping at least one of the containers enclosing a fire retardant from an aircraft over a fire.

Abstract: A test system (10) for testing a fire suppression system (100) for a determination of a flow ratio of at least two different constituents (2, 4) where the fire suppression system (100) is of a type that mixes the flow of the at least two constituents (2, 4) for distribution whereby only one of the two constituents (2, 4), is required for testing of the flow ratio, the system (10) comprising a control box (14), a first constituent flow meter system (16) and a second constituent line flow meter system (18), wherein the first constituent (2) is directed through the first constituent flow meter system (16), the first constituent (2) is directed through the second constituent line flow meter system (18), each flow meter system (16, 18) detecting a flow rate therein, and the control box (14) compares the flow rates of the first constituent (2) through each flow meter system (16, 18), and indicates the flow rate ratio had the second constituent (4) been directed through the second constituent line flow meter system

Abstract: A telescoping waterway for adjusting the height of a firefighting monitor is disclosed. The telescoping waterway includes a hollow outer tube, a hollow inner tube within the hollow outer tube, and an actuator that moves the hollow inner tube relative to the hollow outer tube, wherein the hollow inner tube can be maintained in at least one intermediate position between a retracted position and a fully extended position.

Abstract: A fire fighting vehicle having a boom system includes a working assembly attached to an end portion of the boom system. The working assembly comprises a frame pivotally mounted at a midpoint of the frame to the end portion of the boom. The frame carries a mechanical actuator that is connected to a tool capable of piercing an exterior of a structure when the mechanical actuator is actuated.

Abstract: A small emergency response vehicle having a wedge-shaped nose and triangular wheel base for improved accessibility to emergency sites previously inaccessible to conventional fire fighting vehicles. A main overhead tank and two modular auxiliary tanks provide 2400 liters of storage for water and/or surfactants. The front wheel provides a 360 degree turning radius. The vehicle can be air-lifted and air-dropped with a helicopter via attachment points on the heavy steel frame. An enclosed cab has a fire and impact resistant glass windshields and an air supply to the driver as well as to occupants in the tank compartment, when the tank is removed. A nozzle assembly is mounted on the nose of the vehicle to distribute the fire suppression materials.

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.

Abstract: A device and method for inhibiting the spread of a fire to the roof of a building by placing a base supporting a sprinkler on the roof. A hose connected to the base and in fluid communication with the sprinkler provides a source of water ejected from the sprinkler onto the roof. The interior of the base may be wetted to increase its weight. A rope, normally stored on a spool removably attached to the base, may be used to reposition the base on the roof.

Abstract: A turret control system includes one or more control modules, such as an envelope control module, turret targeting module, a turret pan module, a turret deploy module, a turret store module. The preferred turret control system also provides improved turret control flexibility and improved operator feedback.

Abstract: An air delivery system, wherein the air delivery system is coupled to a hose delivering water or fire-extinguishing foam, for providing air to emergency workers and disaster victims. The system includes a high-pressure air hose coupled at one end to an air-supply source and adapted to be coupled at a plurality of outlets along the delivery system to bottles capable of containing pressurized air.

Abstract: A fluid dispensing arrangement and skid pan for use with a fire fighting vehicle, with the vehicle defining an under-vehicle volume. The fluid dispensing arrangement comprises a fluid source, a nozzle support coupled to the vehicle and movable within at least a part of the under-vehicle volume. A nozzle assembly is supported by the nozzle support and is in fluid communication with a fluid source. An actuator is coupled to the nozzle support to move the nozzle support within at least a part of the under-vehicle volume.

Abstract: A fire sprinkler system assembled as a complete package 13D-13R-U.L. listed components including a fire pump/motor, electric controller, pipe fittings, manifold assembly, ball valve, flow switch, pressure switch, pressure gauge, and check valve, all mounted on a frame attached to a high density polyethelene base. The invention also uses optional water storage tanks.

Abstract: A method of for stopping and containing fires involving, in one embodiement, taking the fumes from a turbine, jet or any chemical source, and running it through a giant muffler, radiator or pipe if needs cooling. The radiator cools the fumes down from the engine or chemical source. This is a system that uses the fumes to cool the fire down, and blow the oxygen away. When the gasses pass over the fire, it will suck the heat and oxygen away, and replace it with a non-combustible gas. This system can also be used to put architectural fires, by blowing the fumes in the building from one side, keeping oxygen from entering the building, by building up pressure, until no more oxygen can enter the building. This is essentially a mechanism or means that one way inject water into flow of the fumes.

Abstract: A radio controlled liquid monitor, capable of rotation about a vertical axis through an infinite arc is disclosed. A rotatable body is rotatably mounted onto a base element for rotation about a vertical axis, and a discharge elbow is rotatably mounted on the rotatable body for rotation about a horizontal axis. A horizontal drive unit and a vertical drive unit operate on gears on the rotatable body and the elbow, to enable the rotatable body to rotate about a vertical axis, and the discharge elbow to rotate about a horizontal axis. A control module is attached to the rotatable body which receives radio control commands from an operator via a portable transmitter apparatus or a fixed transmitter apparatus. The control module and drive unit receive electrical power and control signals through a rotating connector positioned within the base element and rotatable body so that the control module and drive units receive electrical power and control signals regardless of the rotational position of the rotatable body.

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.

Abstract: A portable and self-contained fire suppression system The device, in one embodiment, provides a wheeled frame having a pump, engine, fire suppressant flexible conduit and a site for connection to a source of water. A second embodiment provides a reservoir for retaining a predetermined amount of water onboard of the apparatus. In these embodiments, the device can be expeditiously deployed for promptly responding to an emergency.

Abstract: A fire hose nozzle includes a safety device to prevent the nozzle from being displaced due to the action of the water supplied to the nozzle. The safety device includes a tubular body and a butterfly disc with two coaxial trunnions pivotally mounted on the body. The butterfly disc is movable inside the tubular body between an open position, in which the butterfly disc allows water to flow, and a closed position, in which the butterfly disc restricts this flow. An external control lever is integral with one of the trunnions. A trigger is borne by the control lever and bears against the ground. The trigger holds the butterfly disc in its open position when the control lever exerts a downwardly directed vertical force thereon due to the action of the water flowing over the butterfly disc.

Abstract: A fire fighting apparatus comprising a container with two tanks therein, one holding a quantity of water and another holding a quantity of foaming agent, a pump operated by a gasoline engine, several hoses for directing a water/foam mixture at a fire and for refilling the water tank with water from a source, and a valve system for directing the water/foaming agent mixture through two different hoses at the fire while water from a source is used either directly on the fire or for replacing water taken from the tank. The apparatus is held within a container mounted on casters so that it can be conveniently wheeled about. The unit is adapted for use in areas remote from fire departments.

Abstract: The invention concerns a trailer which can be pulled by a conventional towing unit, e.g., a tractor, in particular with reference to its safe use at the scene of a fire, and also concerns improved use of the fire-fighting trailer.

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.

Abstract: An apparatus for inhibiting wide dispersal of heat, smoke and noxious gases from a fire in a structure such as a building occupied by people, thereby facilitating evacuation of the building through exit routes rendered relatively smoke-free by the apparatus includes a portable enclosure which has an entrance opening hermetically sealable to a doorway opening when the enclosure is moved into position adjacent to the doorway, and encloses an open-top tank which contains water, and a vertical baffle which protrudes downwardly from a roof panel of the enclosure, the baffle being disposed transversely across the enclosure with a lower edge of the baffle immersed beneath the surface of the water to thereby form a water-trap type air-lock.

Abstract: Disclosed in an inert gas generator to produce a large quantity of inert gas within a short period of time. The inert gas generator comprises: a gas turbine consisting of a starter motor, compressor, combustor and turbine body; an afterburner being connected to an exit of the gas turbine to re-burn gas burned in the combustor and being equipped with a flame stabilizer; a cooling chamber being equipped with spray nozzles to eject water to decrease gas temperature in the afterburner exit; an evaporator set to further cool the gas-steam mixture from the afterburner; a cooling chamber and spray nozzles; an exhaust nozzle to guide the direction of the inert gas-steam mixture of low temperature and oxygen content; and a controller for controlling the starter motor, the fuel pump and combustor. The inert gas generator mounted on a movable vehicle can promptly suppress the fire occurred in various places with least amount cost possible.

Abstract: Land surface treating equipment in the form of firebreak-forming equipment includes a linearly extending combustion chamber defining shell formed to define a burning chamber in conjunction with land along which it is intended to be used once operatively positioned, fitted with a burner providing arrangement used for creating a combustion reaction within the chamber. The equipment further includes a fire extinguishing layout in the form of tubes extending along the sides of the shell, that are fitted with spaced nozzles aimed to discharge fire extinguishing agent alongside the shell during operative use. The equipment is towable along land via ski formations. The dispensing of combusted gases and other products take place via chimneys. The burner providing arrangement is fitted to the upstream side of the shell resulting in the ignition of growth on entering the chamber during progress of the equipment along land.

Abstract: Method and apparatus are presented for instrumentation of a firefighter's vari-nozzle for motion tracking and measurement of pattern selector and bail handle positions. In the embodiment presented here, brackets and associated hardware attach (1) a position tracking device to the nozzle to measure its 6-DOF (Degrees of Freedom) position and orientation, and (2) potentiometers to measure the angular positions of the two main, moving components (the bail handle and the pattern selector) of the nozzle. The mounts are attached to the brass nozzle with holes drilled into the main body of the nozzle. One application of this instrumentation is control of an augmented reality or virtual reality water stream, or other extinguishing agent. The electronic signals from potentiometers in the instrumentation permit a computer to calculate and display graphical representations of water flow from the nozzle for virtual reality and augmented reality applications.

Abstract: A fire fighting apparatus comprising a container with two tanks therein, one holding a quantity of water and another holding a quantity of foaming agent, a pump operated by a gasoline engine, several hoses for directing a water/foam mixture at a fire and for refilling the water tank with water from a source, and a valve system for directing the water/foam mixture through two different hoses at the fire while water from a source is used either directly on the fire or for replacing water taken from the tank. The apparatus is held within a container mounted on casters so that it can be conveniently wheeled about. The unit is adapted for use in areas remote from fire departments.

Abstract: Disclosed is an inert gas generator to produce a large quantity of inert gas within a short period of time. The inert gas generator comprises: a gas turbine consisting of a starter motor, compressor, combustor and turbine; an afterburner being connected to the exit of the gas turbine to re-burn the gas of once burned in the primary combustor and being equipped with a flame stabilizer; a cooling chamber being equipped with spray nozzles to eject water to decrease the gas temperature in the afterburner exit; an evaporator set to further cool the gas-steam mixture from the afterburner; a cooling chamber and spray nozzles; an exhaust nozzle to guide the direction of the inert gas-steam mixture of low temperature and oxygen content; and a controller for controlling the starter motor, the fuel pump and combustor. The inert gas generator mounted on a movable vehicle can promptly suppress the fire occurred in various places with least amount cost possible.

Abstract: A fire fighting apparatus comprising a container with two tanks therein, one holding a quantity of water and another holding a quantity of foaming agent, a pump operated by a gasoline engine, several hoses for directing a water/foam mixture at a fire and for refilling the water tank with water from a source, and a valve system for directing the water/foaming agent mixture through two different hoses at the fire while water from a source is used either directly on the fire or for replacing water taken from the tank. The apparatus is held within a container mounted on casters so that it can be conveniently wheeled about. The unit is adapted for use in areas remote from fire departments.

Abstract: A mobile self-propelled vehicle for fighting fires incorporates an extensible, trainable evacuation tube which can be introduced into a burning building or other enclosed space to remove smoke and gases by means of a power exhaust fan. Fire extinguishing materials can be injected into the space through the same evacuation tube.

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.

Abstract: Disclosed is a large scale mobile positive pressure blower designed to provide positive pressure ventilation for fighting fires in large spaces such as tunnels, mines, halls, warehouses large Box stores, high-rise buildings, shopping malls and the like. In accordance with the invention, a hydraulically or electrically operated ventilation blower is provided on an adjustable elevation device that may be mounted either on a movable vehicle or trailer, or in stationary locations in the vicinity of a structure opening or portal. The blower delivers a large volume of air having a conical shape into an opening at one end of the structure (e.g. a transportation tunnel) to force the smoke and hazardous gasses out through a different opening. One or more blowers may be used, depending upon the size of the entrance and the structure.

Abstract: The present invention comprises supplying a liquid onto the source of a fire from an aircraft (7), wherein said liquid is supplied in the form of gas-droplet stream (8) obtained by dispersion in a gas flow and by acceleration of the dual-phase flow in a gas-dynamics nozzle (4). The pressure at the inlet of the nozzle (4) as well as the relative concentration of liquid in the dual-phase flow are selected according to conditions enabling the formation of a dual-phase low-dispersion and high-speed flow which has a high extinguishing-substance concentration and remains stable when submitted to interference. The fire-extinguishing device of the present invention comprises a liquid supply system (1), a gas supply system (2), a mixing chamber (3) for the gas and the liquid as well as a gas-dynamics nozzle (4), wherein all these members are is arranged onboard on aircraft (7). The gas-dynamics nozzle supplies the liquid towards the area of the fire source and is connected to a vessel through a duct.

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.

Abstract: A rough terrain, large water volume, track driven firefighting vehicle with tracked running gear for all terrain capability, having a large onboard water tank, a universal nozzle and heat shields cooled by a system of standoff sprinklers behind the shields, a forward spraying sprinkler and an operator's compartment having controls for operating the vehicle.

Abstract: A remote control vehicle comprising a body having a front end and a rear end and provided with first and second ground engageable propulsion means respectively disposed on opposite sides of the vehicle and in which the first and second propulsion means are driven by first and second transmission means respectively to permit the vehicle to be propelled and steered by driving the propulsion means on one side of the vehicle independently from the propulsion means on the other side of the vehicle, a boom assembly having carrying means for carrying an implement on the boom assembly, the boom assembly being mounted on the body for lifting movement between a raised position and a lowered position by a lifting means and wherein the ground engageable propulsion means and the lifting means of the boom assembly are operable by a receiver, of an electromagnetic signal, provided on the body.

Abstract: Two embodiments of a swing-down type fire extinguisher are disclosed. In one embodiment, a single unit can extinguish either or both of two fires on a stove having front and back burners. This is accomplished by dispensing fire suppressant material toward both burners in the initial motion of swinging down upon activation by a fire and continuing with a pendulum action designed to distribute material to both the front burner and a back burner aligned in the direction of swinging. In a second embodiment, a single unit is provided for each burner. It is operated in two stages, first to respond to a fire or flame by unlatching the extinguisher to release from a horizontal inoperative or “at rest” position and enabling it to swing down to a fire extinguishing position directly over the pan with the burning grease.

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.

Abstract: A harness assembly for assisting a user in transporting a fire hose includes an adjustable strap assembly secured to a chest plate. The device is secured to a wearer with the chest plate positioned on the chest and abdomen. Attached to the chest plate is a nozzle assembly including a manifold portion that is disposed adjacent the wearer's side which may be coupled with the outlet of a fire hose. The nozzle assembly further includes an intermediate section perpendicularly extending from the manifold portion and a dispensing portion perpendicularly extending from the intermediate section and away from the user. The dispensing portion includes a water control valve, a clip for attaching the nozzle assembly to the chest plate and a pair of diametrically opposed handles which may be grasped by a user. The unique design of the nozzle assembly allows a user to maintain the hose at his or her side while being able to dispense water therefrom at a point directly in front of the user for enhanced control.

Abstract: A method for fighting wildland and forest fire and a hitch assembly is described that allows a tank of fluid to be towed by a fire tractor to a fire location especially for the purpose of spraying and creating a foam fire break line. The hitch assembly attaches to a fire tractor and uses fifth wheel plate and kingpin coupling to releasably lockingly connect a continuous track vehicle to a tank in the configuration of an over-the-road semi trailer or to the drawbar eye of a tank in the configuration of an over-the-road A-train trailer.

Abstract: A highly effective module for preventing corrosion of oil well pipes and equipment and for preventing resulting fires and explosions. The module is a collar formed from slitted and expanded metal net and is adapted to fit in the annular space between the oil production pipe and the outer casing of the oil well, to prevent oxygen from the atmosphere from entering the annular space at the top of the well, and to exclude hydrocarbon vapors from the subterranean production zone from entering the annular space at the bottom of the well. The invention also relates to methods for extinguishing a burning oil well.

Abstract: A vehicle for fighting fires in remote areas comprises an all terrain vehicle carrying a water-fillable tank, a water pump in fluid communication with the inside of the tank, an engine to operate the pump, and at least one hose for directing the pumped water, preferably foamed with a foaming agent at the fire.

Abstract: A fire extinguishing apparatus for use in collecting and extinguishing relatively lightweight Class A material includes a vacuum with an associated hopper, a conduit extending from the vacuum, and extinguisher connected to the conduit. Also, provided is a method of collecting and extinguishing relatively lightweight Class A material, which includes the steps of (a) causing the Class A material to be forcibly moved through a contained passageway and (b) extinguishing the Class A material as it passes through the contained passageway.

Abstract: A pressure ventilator of a type carried by firefighters and rescue workers to a burning building to provide either positive or negative pressure ventilation is characterized by a modular structure in which one module comprises a fan and electric motor unit mounted together in a frame on wheels with a handle and another module comprises a battery pack, motor controller, circuits, and connectable electric cables mounted together in a carrying case. The ventilator module has a carrying structure for mounting and holding the battery module, and the battery module has enough capacity to drive the fan in the ventilator module for at least twenty minutes without falling below a minimum voltage threshold. The motor controller in the battery module compares actual voltage to the threshold and disconnects the batteries from the motor in the ventilator unit when the actual voltage falls below the threshold.

Abstract: A forward-mounted fluid-dispensing boom on a fire-fighting vehicle that can move between a retracted position and a fully extended position directly in front of the vehicle.

Abstract: A machine for extinguishing ground fires comprises an extinguisher assembly having a plurality of beating members which forcefully impact the ground as the machine travels over the terrain. The beating members are attached to a core which rotates as the machine advances, thereby imparting a rotating motion to the fibers. The beating members repetitively impact the ground, which motion extinguishes the fire. The machine may be walked or ridden.