Special Applications Patents (Class 169/54)
  • Patent number: 11590371
    Abstract: Fire protection systems and methods provide for the protection of horizontal concealed interstitial spaces of either a solid wood joist, open bar joist or open truss construction system. The systems and methods provide and locate fire protection sprinklers to define localized heat detection areas that are over 1000 sq. ft, at least 2000 sq. ft., over 2000 sq. ft. and/or otherwise unconfined by draft curtains or other barriers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2023
    Assignees: Viking Group, Inc., Minimax Viking Research & Development GmbH
    Inventors: Martin H. Workman, Scott T. Franson, James E. Golinveaux
  • Patent number: 11433266
    Abstract: A firefighting apparatus includes a reaction chamber, a CO2 tank fluidly connected to the reaction chamber, acid and carbonate tanks, acid and carbonate pumps, and a controller. The acid and carbonate pumps act to correspondingly regulate flow of acid from the acid tank and carbonate from the carbonate tank to the reaction chamber. Acid and carbonate react within the reaction chamber to produce CO2 gas which flows into the CO2 tank and liquid byproduct which is releasable through a reaction chamber outlet. A CO2 gas delivery valve is fluidly connected to a delivery outlet of the CO2 tank to regulate release of CO2 therefrom. The CO2 tank includes a pressure sensor for measuring a CO2 tank pressure. The controller is configured to control operation of the acid and carbonate pumps, and the CO2 gas delivery valve according to a user command signal, the CO2 tank pressure, or both.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2022
    Assignee: AlazTech Inc.
    Inventors: Hussein Farzam, Mahboob Bolandi
  • Patent number: 11333380
    Abstract: A heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) combustion suppression system. The HVAC combustion suppression system includes a sensor that detects and emits a signal indicative of a refrigerant released from an HVAC system into an enclosed space. The system also includes a suppression component that blocks or reduces combustion of the refrigerant in the enclosed space, and a controller that receives the signal from the sensor. The controller in response to the signal activates the suppression component to suppress combustion of the refrigerant in the enclosed space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2022
    Assignee: Johnson Controls Tyco IP Holdings LLP
    Inventor: Jamie T. Weinert
  • Patent number: 11035770
    Abstract: A method performed by a system controller and estimating a size of a manhole event occurring in a network of manhole vaults interconnected by connections. The method includes obtaining first, second, and third mass flow rates for each of a plurality of gaseous components present in exhaust, fresh air, and event flows, respectively, and estimating the size based on the third mass flow rate obtained for at least one of the gaseous components. The exhaust flow exits a selected vault of the manhole vaults, the fresh air flow enters the selected vault from an external atmosphere, and the event flow originates from the manhole event. The third mass flow rate for each of a portion of the gaseous components is determined by subtracting the second mass flow rate obtained for the gaseous component from the first mass flow rate obtained for the gaseous component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2021
    Assignee: NOVINIUM, INC.
    Inventors: Glen John Bertini, Weston Philips Chapin Ford
  • Patent number: 10821466
    Abstract: Systems and methods for venting a solvent are disclosed. The system includes a chamber, such as an oven having an interior volume defining a heating zone, where the interior volume receives at least one substrate coated with a coating material comprising a solvent. The system further includes a vent coupled to the oven and defining a passage between the interior volume and the environment external to the oven. The system also includes a solvent sensor measuring an amount of evaporated solvent present in the interior volume, and a fan removing at least a portion of the solvent from the interior volume. The system may also include a coating assembly including an applicator and a flow meter, wherein the applicator applies a portion of the coating material to the substrate, and the flow meter determines the amount of coating material applied to the substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2020
    Assignee: Nordson Corporation
    Inventors: Per Orla-Jensen, Stephane Etienne
  • Patent number: 10390664
    Abstract: A separation unit for separating a web material along preformed lines of weakness. The separation unit has a width direction and includes at least a first roller having a rotational axis extending in the width direction and a web width extending in the width direction, and at least a second roller having a rotational axis extending parallel with the rotational axis of the first roller and a web width extending in the width direction. The second roller is positioned at a distance from the first roller. Each of the first and the second rollers is provided with at least one protrusion element extending perpendicularly from the axes. Each of the protrusion elements has a maximum width in the width direction, a maximum radial extension from the rotational axes, an inner portion adjacent to the rotational axes, and an outer portion remote from the rotational axes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: ESSITY HYGIENE AND HEALTH AKTIEBOLAG
    Inventors: Bjorn Larsson, Per Moller, Lars Thoren, Jari Haukirauma, Stig Pommer, Joonas Jokitalo
  • Patent number: 10240243
    Abstract: A flow distributor may comprise an inner surface, an outer surface, and a plurality of holes circumferentially disposed in the flow distributor and extending from the inner surface to the outer surface. Each of the holes may comprise an inlet defined at the inner surface and an outlet defined at the outer surface, wherein each inlet is axially offset from a circumferentially adjacent inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2019
    Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation
    Inventor: James R. O'Coin
  • Patent number: 10023435
    Abstract: The hoisting apparatus includes a climbing rail, which is adapted to be suspended on and translated vertically along a construction at a distance from the ground. There is an enclosure supported by the climbing rail. There is also a lifting platform that is housed within the enclosure and is vertically movable relative to the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2018
    Assignee: ISCHEBECK TITAN LIMITED
    Inventor: Mark Taylor
  • Patent number: 9517283
    Abstract: A method for multi-agent dry fogging. The method includes pressurizing a first agent to a first range of pressure. The first agent includes a sterilant. The method also includes pressurizing a second agent to a second range of pressure. The second agent includes a non-depleting solution for protection against microorganism growth. The method also includes pressurizing a gas to a gas range of pressure. The method also includes atomizing the first agent at a nozzle to mix with the pressurized gas in a first application stage to disperse the first agent in a first dry fog within an ambient environment. The method also includes atomizing the second agent at the nozzle to mix with the pressurized gas in a second application stage to disperse the second agent in a second dry fog within the ambient environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2016
    Assignee: Pure Maintenance
    Inventors: Michael B Adams, Jeffrey S Evans, David E Gillies
  • Patent number: 9297493
    Abstract: A laundry dryer includes a cabinet, a rotatable drum within the cabinet, a plurality of rollers rotatably supporting the rotatable drum, a process air moisture condensing device provided in a casing in a basement of the laundry dryer, and a water pipe operatively connected to at least one component of the condensing device. The laundry dryer comprises at least one fire-protection shield which contains a fire or burning within the cabinet of the laundry dryer. Accordingly to some aspects, the fire-protection shield includes a fire-resistant roller cover which covers a majority of a face of a corresponding roller such that the corresponding roller is shielded from a fire within the cabinet of the laundry dryer. According to other aspects, the fire-protection device includes a fire-resistant pipe covering configured to shield the water pipe from the fire or other burning within the cabinet of the laundry dryer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2016
    Assignee: Electrolux Appliances Aktiebolag
    Inventors: Alberto Bison, Luciano Sartor, Gabriele Londero, Piercarlo Novelli, Stefano Di Maso, Daniele Solerio
  • Patent number: 9022134
    Abstract: A fire-resistant rescue blanket sized to underlay and wrap around a victim for protecting the victim from fire-related injuries. The fire-resistant rescue blanket includes layers of a flame-resistant material for protecting against fire injuries, a heat-reflective fabric for protecting against environmental heat conditions, and a protective fabric for protecting against fallen debris. The heat-reflective fabric is arranged along an inner surface of the flame-resistant material and contacts the victim when the victim is wrapped in the fire-resistant rescue blanket. The protective fabric is arranged on the opposing outer surface covering at least underneath the area where the victim is laying to protect the wrapped victim against debris, such as during a dragging operation. The fire-resistant rescue blanket includes a plurality of loop handles for allowing rescue personnel to carry the victim if necessary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: Skedco, Inc.
    Inventor: Carston R. Calkin
  • Patent number: 9022133
    Abstract: Water is mixed with fire suppressant polymer in a mixer absent a power source. The mixer receives water through a water inlet with water exhibiting high velocity and associated hydrodynamic force. Such velocity is achieved by locating the water inlet connected to a float or other part of an aircraft so that when the aircraft flies over water with the float dipping into the water, water is driven through the opening and into the water inlet of the mixer. A polymer inlet passes into the mixer. A bend is located downstream of the water inlet and the polymer inlet. The bend exhibits sufficient resistance to fluid flow direction therethrough that the polymer is sheared and thoroughly mixed and activated with the water. A colorant inlet is optionally provided within the mixer and the water and polymer mixture is then discharged into a tank for later utilization at a firefighting location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Inventor: Leonard E. Doten
  • Patent number: 9004188
    Abstract: An improved apparatus for treating a fire in a multi-floored building where the fire is located on an upper floor vertically displaced from a lower floor from which the fire is treated, and where the upper and lower floors each have a selectively openable environmental access along an external wall of the multi-floored building. The improved apparatus includes a tubular structure having an inlet, an intermediate portion, and an outlet and a bracing system. The bracing system has a frame, a first pivot point, and a second pivot point. The frame provides support against a sturdy surface. The tubular structure is supported on the first pivot point and rotates thereon to elevate or hoist the outlet towards the upper floor environmental access. The tubular structure is further supported on a second pivot point and further rotates thereon to elevate the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Inventors: Michael Wielgat, Daniel J. Kegg
  • Publication number: 20150096770
    Abstract: A device for protecting a lineman or firefighter from an electrical fire that occurs while working within a manhole. The device dispenses a non-conductive amount of fire suppressant material having fire suppression and extinguishing properties without creating an electrically conductive environment. The admixture preferably can cling to walls, ladders, clothing and skin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2014
    Publication date: April 9, 2015
    Inventor: Peter Cordani
  • Publication number: 20150034341
    Abstract: A fire sprinkler of the preferred embodiments includes a frame, a trigger, and a deflector. The frame defines a duct to exhaust the flow of a fire suppressing or extinguishing substance, and includes a fastener to fasten the frame to a supply line. The trigger blocks the flow of the fire suppressing or extinguishing substance through the duct during a first mode, and permits the flow of the fire suppressing or extinguishing substance during a second mode. The deflector redirects the flow of the fire suppressing or extinguishing substance into a coverage area. The deflector also at least partially shields the trigger from the dispersal of a fire suppressing or extinguishing substance from an adjacent fire sprinkler and prevents a failure of the trigger.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2014
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Applicant: Ann Arbor Fire Protection
    Inventor: Jeffrey J. Pigeon
  • Patent number: 8944174
    Abstract: A fire suppression spray head for attaching to a sink assembly comprising a sink, a tap, a work surface adjacent the sink, a cupboard underneath the sink and at least one cupboard door, the spray head having at least one nozzle for spraying fire suppressant material received from a supply of fire suppressant material, wherein the spray head is configured to be attached to a part of the sink assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Plumis Limited
    Inventors: Paul Thomas, Yusuf Muhammad, Jeung Woo-Choi
  • Publication number: 20150027739
    Abstract: A fire protection sprinkler system is provided for the protection of commodities including Class I-IV hazards, Group A cartoned and exposed plastics (expanded and unexpanded), flammable liquids, tires, roll paper, and aerosols, stored in a plurality of adjoining racks having a longitudinal flue space between the racks. The system includes at least one fluid supply conduit in fluid communication with a source of a fire protection fluid. The system also includes at least one solid horizontal barrier covering each rack and the longitudinal flue space at a predetermined vertical spacing. The system further includes one or more rack-level fire protection sprinklers in fluid communication with the fluid supply. The sprinklers are disposed in the vertical flue space between adjacent horizontal barriers, and each sprinkler is spaced vertically from the commodities stored between adjacent horizontal barriers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2013
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Inventors: Thomas Multer, Oliver Pahila
  • Patent number: 8936103
    Abstract: A fire suppression apparatus adapted for connection to a water supply for a faucet has one or more spray nozzles (26), at least one valve (20) operable into an open position to fluidly couple the one or more spray nozzles (26) to a water supply for a faucet (4), a fire sensor (28), and a controller (21) connected to the fire sensor (28), and upon sensing a fire, the fire sensor (28) is adapted to trigger the controller (21) to operate the at least one valve (20) into the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: Sensorjet Holdings Limited
    Inventor: Benjamin Adair Munro
  • Publication number: 20150014001
    Abstract: A fire protection device for a cable bushing leading a cable unit from a fire-risk area to an area to be protected against fire. The fire protection device has a fire protector that is provided for protection against the spread of fire into the space to be protected through the cable bushing. In order to provide a fire protection device that offers high flexibility in the use of cable bushings and allows subsequent repositioning of the cable, the fire protector is configured as an assembly component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2013
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventor: Georg Dengler
  • Patent number: 8899342
    Abstract: A safety apparatus is disclosed for inhibiting an outbreak of an electrical fire within an electrical box. The apparatus includes a heat sensitive device which is disposed within the electrical box for sensing a potentially hazardous temperature rise within the electrical box caused by an electrical fault in the electrical box. A control device is associated with the heat sensitive device such that the control device is activated by the heat sensitive device when the heat sensitive device senses the potentially hazardous temperature rise within the electrical box. The electrical fire inhibiting device has a dormant mode and a fire extinguishing mode. The arrangement is such that when the control device is activated by the heat sensitive device, the control device switches the fire inhibiting device from the dormant mode to the fire extinguishing mode so that the outbreak of the electrical fire within the electrical box is prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Inventor: Lyle H Chesley
  • Publication number: 20140338929
    Abstract: A method of fire suppression may include injecting a reactive agent into a reaction zone to produce a catalytically active species for fire suppression and conveying the catalytically active species to a fire to catalytically interfere with flame chemistry of the fire. Fire in a fuel tank may be suppressed by injecting the reactive agent into a convective flow of a mixture of fuel and oxidizer in a fuel tank, the reactive agent reacting in the fuel tank to release a species which catalytically interferes with flame chemistry to suppress fire in the fuel tank. Fire at an airplane crash may be suppressed by releasing the reactive agent from the container at the crash site to produce an active species to catalytically interfere with a fire at the crash site.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2014
    Publication date: November 20, 2014
    Inventors: Peter D. Haaland, Ken Harness
  • Patent number: 8881840
    Abstract: Fire protection device for gangways 3 between the coaches 2 of rail vehicles with a gangway 3 between coaches 2 of a rail vehicle, and a fluid-fed fire-fighting device. Effective fire-fighting with low weight is made due to the fact the fire-fighting device comprises a fluid mist nozzle 4 which delivers a fluid mist, whereby the at least one fluid mist nozzle 4 is arranged in such a way that the fluid mist is sprayed into the gangway 3.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: FOGTEC Brandschutz GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Roger Dirksmeier, Max Lakkonen, Dirk Sprakel
  • Patent number: 8851196
    Abstract: A fire sprinkler support assembly includes a leg configured to extend transverse to each of a pair of adjacent parallel spaced beams. The leg includes levered clamp assemblies that are configured for connecting and supporting each end of the leg to a corresponding one of the beams. The levered clamp assemblies include a first plate and a second plate, each plate configured to straddle the beam. The levered clamp assemblies also include a lever assembly. The lever assembly includes a rod passing through corresponding rod openings in the first and second plates, and a lever pivotally connected to one end of the rod. The lever includes a cam surface disposed adjacent to the first plate. The lever assembly is configured to reduce spacing between the plates upon actuation of the lever, whereby the leg is secured to the beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Flexhead Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul S. F. Silcox, Peter M. MacDonald, Norman J. MacDonald, III
  • Patent number: 8844643
    Abstract: A local fire shield is provided for protecting an attachment point of a fireproof system in an engine during a fire event. The local fire shield includes a mounting plate mounted on the attachment point; and a cover coupled to the mounting plate for covering the attachment point during the fire event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Justin C. Mickelsen, Martin C. Baker
  • Patent number: 8820425
    Abstract: A filtered cake candle extinguisher device comprises a filter, a mouthpiece connected to the filter and a decorative cover for covering filter. A sound generator may be provided to enhance the user's enjoyment while using the extinguisher device to blow out a candle or candles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Inventors: Jacqueline A. Gatling, Vonna Meier
  • Patent number: 8807234
    Abstract: An automated storage system is presented, in which a stacker crane can properly operate even in a high temperature environment, while simplifying the construction of the system facility. The automated storage system includes articles storage racks having a plurality of storage spaces for storing articles; a stacker crane 3 which freely travels along the travelling path, and a ground controller H which is on the ground side to control the operation of the stacker crane, and a fire fighting nozzles 26 on the platform 20. The article storage racks and the stacker crane are located in a high temperature environmental space Z2, while the extinguishant supply source 27 and the ground side controller are in a normal temperature environmental space Z1. A control line 31 is established from the ground side controller and the stacker crane, and a fire fighting hose 30 is from the extinguishant supply source to the fire fighting nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Daifuku Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Masashi Ariizumi
  • Patent number: 8800673
    Abstract: An attic fire protection system is provided. The system comprises a fluid supply manifold for supplying a fluid, positioned at an effective height below and parallel to the underside of a roof having a non-zero pitch angle. The system contains a plurality of fittings each having at least one exit port for directing the flow of the fluid, the fittings being spaced within at most a maximum effective distance apart from each other and being connected to receive fluid from the supply manifold, wherein the exit ports are structured to supply the fluid in a direction parallel to the underside of the roof. Most broadly, however, the fittings are structured or arranged to supply the fluid in a direction forming an oblique angle with the horizontal and the vertical, which may or may be exactly the same as the pitch angle of the roof. The system also includes a plurality of horizontal sidewall sprinklers each connected to a respective exit port of one or another of the fittings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: The Reliable Automatic Sprinkler Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas L. Multer, George S. Polan, Myron L. Allen
  • Publication number: 20140209330
    Abstract: A fire retardant delivery system for protection from wildfire is provided. The system includes a retardant tank for storing a fire retardant and a carrier tank for storing a carrier for the fire retardant. Alternatively, the system includes a fire retardant tank fluidly coupled with a carrier provided from a suitable source. The retardant tank and the carrier joined in a tank arrangement. A supply of a motive source is in fluid communication with the tank arrangement. An activation system disperses the supply of the motive source into the tank arrangement so that the fire retardant and the carrier are mixed into a fire retardant and carrier mixture after actuation of the activation system. At least one distribution nozzle delivers the fire retardant and carrier mixture to a desired area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2013
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Applicant: HAS LLC
    Inventors: Harry Statter, Tom Barrett, Stephen C. Haeske
  • Publication number: 20140202722
    Abstract: A device for protecting a lineman or firefighter from an electrical fire that occurs while working within a manhole. The device dispenses a non-conductive amount of hydrated super absorbent polymer having fire suppression and extinguishing properties without creating an electrically conductive environment. The admixture can cling to walls, ladders, clothing and skin. The admixture is capable of encapsulating noxious gases produced by electrical fires and prevent the release of toxic gases.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: GelTech Solutions, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter Cordani
  • Patent number: 8776902
    Abstract: Fire-extinguishing agent supplying equipment pressurizes a water-based fire-extinguishing agent and supplies the agent via a pipe; and the water-based fire-extinguishing agent is pressurized and supplied via the pipe to an electrification spray head installed in a protection area A, and the jetted particles of the fire-extinguishing agent are electrified and sprayed from the electrification spray head. A pulsed or alternating electrification voltage is applied to the electrification spray head from a voltage application unit 15, and an external electric field generated by applying the voltage between a water-side electrode unit and an induction electrode unit is applied to the fire-extinguishing agent in a jetting process to electrify the jetted particles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: Hochiki Corporation
    Inventors: Toshihide Tsuji, Tatsuya Hayashi
  • Patent number: 8746358
    Abstract: A system of operating a plurality of fire extinguishing units. The system comprises a plurality of valve control units each set to activate one of the plurality of fire extinguishing units when triggered and to trigger the activation of another of the plurality of fire extinguishing units by another of the plurality of valve control units substantially simultaneously and an actuating element which triggers one of the plurality of valve control units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Lehavot Fire Protection Ltd.
    Inventors: Elan Alchalel, Israel Skitnevsky, Carlos A. Feller
  • Patent number: 8746355
    Abstract: A fire-extinguishing bomb that can be pre-programmed to explode 2-200 feet above the ground or tree line. The bomb employs a laser or barometric altitude sensor in combination with a GPS-altitude sensor for failsafe detonation with extreme accuracy at the proper altitude. The redundant failsafe altitude-dependent detonation system ruptures a container carrying a payload of wet or dry fire retardant/suppressant, preferably dry environmentally-friendly fire-retardant powder having no toxicity and having fertilizer properties. Upon detonation the device coats the ground below with a uniform fire extinguishing coating. The core components of the bomb can be biodegradable, or alternatively can be readily retrieved and reused after each activation, thereby increasing both economy and reducing environmental concerns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Inventor: Christopher Joseph Demmitt
  • Patent number: 8720592
    Abstract: A nozzle assembly for encapsulating a gaseous solution in bubbles comprises a discharge tube having a diffuser and a foam solution spray nozzle mounted therein. The discharge tube has upstream and downstream ends. The discharge tube has a front face at the upstream end with a first opening configured to be joined to a gas supply line that provides a gaseous solution and a second opening configured to receive a non-expanded foam solution. The downstream end of the discharge tube is open. A chamber is formed within the discharge tube to receive the gaseous solution at the upstream end and release the gaseous solution through the diffuser into the discharge tube towards the downstream end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Tyco Fire Products LP
    Inventors: Mitchell J. Hubert, Stephen A. Barker, Donald Bjorkman, Gregory R. Walker
  • Patent number: 8657021
    Abstract: The present invention relates to smart monitor for fire hydrants. One embodiment of the smart monitor comprises an electronic module associated with an operating nut and nut shaft. The electronic module may be an integral part of the fire hydrant design or it may be a part of an upgrade kit for upgrading existing fire hydrant installations. The electronic module may be configured to detect when a fire hydrant has been accessed and transmit a data signal to a remote location. The electronic module may comprise any number of environmental sensors configured to monitor the water flowing through a fire hydrant, the status of the fire hydrant, and the environment surrounding the fire hydrant. One such environmental sensor a radiation sensor configured to detect ionizing radiation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Inventors: Joseph Frank Preta, William Monty Simmons, Floyd Stanley Salser, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8636076
    Abstract: A method of firestopping a through-penetration is disclosed, which makes use of a fusible inorganic blended-fiber web. The fusible inorganic blended-fiber web can provide a fire-stopped through-penetration without the use of sealants, intumescent materials, and the like. The fusible inorganic blended-fiber web may comprise a blend of at least first, low melting inorganic fibers and second, high melting inorganic fibers. The fusible inorganic blended-fiber web comprises a bulk density of at least about 7 pounds per cubic foot (0.112 grams/cc).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Brandon L. Cordts, George W. Frost, Ernst L. Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20140008086
    Abstract: In a method for installing a firestop device (14) or insulation having a firestop effect, on a line (12) or pipe, whereby the firestop device (14) or the insulation having a firestop effect is placed, especially wrapped, completely around the line (12) or pipe, in the circumferential direction (U), it is provided that a flexible adhesive tape (16) containing heat-resistant fibers (18) in its lengthwise direction (L) is wrapped in the circumferential direction (U) of the line (12) or pipe completely around the firestop device (14) or the insulation having a firestop effect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2013
    Publication date: January 9, 2014
    Inventor: Christian Foerg
  • Publication number: 20140000918
    Abstract: A safety fitting for blocking a line, includes a blocking body that is located in a widened section of a housing, can be guided linearly in the direction of flow of the line and is held in an open position. The blocking body can be moved under the influence of a pressure fluctuation in the line or moved actively into a sealing position. The housing has a cylindrical sealing section, in which the blocking body engages with a cylindrical section thereby forming a cylindrical annular gap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2011
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Inventor: Dominic Becker
  • Patent number: 8602117
    Abstract: A method for pumping water on a naval vessel is disclosed, the method including but not limited to pumping fresh water from a fresh water reservoir into a fresh water flush tank; pumping salt water from a salt water reservoir into a a fire water reservoir during fire operations; controlling a valve in liquid communication to alternately connect the fire water reservoir to the salt water reservoir to supply salt water to the fire water reservoir during fire operations and connecting the fire water reservoir to the fresh water flush to flush salt water from the fire water reservoir after fire water operations. A system is disclosed for practicing the method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Electronic Power Design
    Inventor: John Janik
  • Patent number: 8602119
    Abstract: The invention relates to a preventing and extinguishing fires in enclosed spaces in which the internal air atmosphere is not permitted to exceed a predefined temperature value. In order not to have to increase the cooling capacity of an air conditioning system when inert gas is added to the internal air atmosphere to set or maintain a specific inertization level within an enclosed space, a system for the regulated discharging of inert gas into same is provided. The system includes a container for the provision and storage of the inert gas in liquified form, and a vaporizer connected to the container for vaporizing at least a portion of the inert gas and discharging same into the internal air atmosphere of the enclosed space. The vaporizer thereby directly or indirectly extracts the heat energy needed to vaporize the liquid inert gas from the internal air atmosphere of the enclosed space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Amrona AG
    Inventor: Ernst-Werner Wagner
  • Patent number: 8606373
    Abstract: A firefighting monitor system includes a monitor, a controller selectively generating signals to the monitor for controlling the monitor, and a computer. The computer is configured to receive input from a user relative to the monitor or the controller. The computer generates an output based on the input, and the output is transmitted to the controller for controlling the monitor or the controller in accordance with the output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Elkhart Brass Manufacturing Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Todd B. Lozier, James M. Trapp, Lee R. Jones, Eric N. Combs
  • Publication number: 20130307270
    Abstract: A fire detection and suppression system for a wind turbine is disclosed. The fire detection and suppression system may be capable of independent operation without input from the wind turbine. The fire detection and suppression system may further be capable of generating and communicating a fire signal to the wind turbine for conveying a fire within the wind turbine. The wind turbine may take actions to shut down and put itself in a protected condition depending upon the location of the detected fire.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2012
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Applicant: Clipper Windpower, LLC
    Inventor: Stephen Steen
  • Publication number: 20130264077
    Abstract: A battery cover with a fire-extinguishing function is provided, which includes a fire-extinguishing tank disposed on an inner surface of the battery cover to store compressed air and fire-extinguishing fluid, so that the fire-extinguishing tank bursts and the fire-extinguishing fluid contained in the tank is sprayed to the battery to thereby suppress a fire in the case where the fire breaks out inside the battery due to overheat or electric leak of the battery. The battery cover with a fire-extinguishing function is coupled to an opening portion of a case that accommodates the battery therein to protect terminals of the battery in a battery pack, and includes the fire-extinguishing tank disposed on an inner surface of the battery cover to store the fire-extinguishing fluid therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2010
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Applicant: VOLVO CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT AB
    Inventor: Un-Yong Jung
  • Patent number: 8534370
    Abstract: The roof-mounted remotely controlled firefighting tower is disposed on the top of the roof of a building and is controlled by a wireless, remote control device. Atop the tower there is a receiver that receives command signals from the remote control device. The firefighting apparatus includes a control set that has electrical and electronic circuits inside and is in operable communication with a motor and gear train engaging a telescoping mast to raise and lower the mast according to wirelessly transmitted commands from a user. A high pressure pump extracts water and foam from a tank and sends it to a distribution vessel on top of the mast. An inverted sprinkler dish distributes the foam and water under pressure to top and sides of the building via the connected sprinklers and water booms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Inventor: Wasmeyyah M. A. S. Al Azemi
  • Patent number: 8528654
    Abstract: An anti-piracy system for a vessel produces a non-lethal all of water along the side of the vessel to wash away a pirate. A cylindrical cap has a top, a bottom edge, a hollow interior, and an outside surface. A slit is defined within the outside surface forming a partial opening within the cap from the interior to the outside surface. A threaded hose fitting is formed within the interior, wherein the cap can be secured to a fire suppression node on the vessel with the downward face positioned over a side of the vessel for forcibly dispersing water through the slit downward over the side of the vessel. The cap is positioned near the deck of the vessel, just over the side of the vessel such that upon activation of the tire suppression system the water is directed downward over the side of the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: International Maritime Security Network, LLC
    Inventors: Timothy D. Nease, Ralph H. Pundt, John C. Lee, Larry V. Wade, Christy Pecanty
  • Publication number: 20130228346
    Abstract: A tank assembly for containing liquid with increased heat resistance includes a lightweight container for liquid having an inlet and an outlet, and a spray assembly. The spray assembly includes means for spraying a liquid, also called a spray device, inside the container that is fluidly connected to the inlet. The spray device has an orifice located so as to direct liquid received from the inlet against an inside surface of the container walls. The liquid forms a sheet that flows down the walls of the container to a pool of liquid to reduce the temperature of the walls of the container above the pool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2013
    Publication date: September 5, 2013
    Applicant: Parker-Hannifin Corporation
    Inventor: Richard E. Scott
  • Publication number: 20130205692
    Abstract: A solar panel assembly including a solar panel spaced from a surface to create a gap and a barrier movable between an open position and a closed position, the barrier being adapted to inhibit airflow through said gap below said solar panel when in the closed position. The assembly may further include a rack supporting the solar panel and resting on the surface. The barrier may be adapted to move from the open position to the closed position upon detection of conditions indicative of a fire. In this way air flow below the solar panel is permitted during normal operation of the solar panel assembly but is inhibited upon detection of a fire.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2013
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Applicant: FIRESTONE BUILDING PRODUCTS CO, LLC
    Inventor: FIRESTONE BUILDING PRODUCTS CO, LLC
  • Patent number: 8505641
    Abstract: A wide protection range can be ensured by extending the flying distance of fire-extinguishing agent particles electrified and sprayed from a head. A water-based fire-extinguishing agent is pressurized and supplied to an electrification spray head 10 installed in a protection area A via a pipe, the jetted particles of the fire-extinguishing agent are electrified and sprayed from the electrification spray head 10. The electrification spray head mixes and sprays the fire-extinguishing agent having a comparatively small particle size included in a range from 30 ?m to 200 ?m by a small-particle jetting nozzle 38a and the fire-extinguishing agent having a comparatively-large particle size of 200 ?m to 2000 ?m by a large-particle jetting nozzle 38b, thereby carrying the group of the fire-extinguishing-agent particles having the small particle size by the air current caused by spraying the group of the fire-extinguishing-agent particles having the large particle size.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Hochiki Corporation
    Inventors: Toshihide Tsuji, Tatsuya Hayashi, Tetsuo Yoshida
  • Patent number: 8505533
    Abstract: Apparatus for oxygenating the airway of a patient may include a device for delivering an oxygen-carrying gas into the airway, a fire detection system configured to detect indications of an imminent or incipient fire in the airway, and a fire suppression system configured to suppress the imminent or incipient fire in the airway in response to detection of the fire in the airway by the fire detection system. A drape for use during surgery on a patient may include a sheet configured to cover an area of the patient during surgery, a fire detection system attached to the sheet and configured to detect indications of an imminent or incipient fire beneath the sheet, and a fire suppression system attached to the sheet and configured to suppress the imminent or incipient fire beneath the sheet in response to detection of the imminent or incipient fire by the fire detection system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: University of Southern California
    Inventors: David T. Raphael, Paul Ronney
  • Patent number: 8499847
    Abstract: A landing pad with an inbuilt fire suppressor that includes at least one first interlocking unit. The interlocking unit includes a landing surface, wherein the landing surface includes openings distributed thereon; and at least one interlocking mechanism located along its periphery. The interlocking mechanism is adapted to interconnect with a corresponding interlocking mechanism from another interlocking unit. A hollow chamber is located beneath the landing surface such that the hollow chamber is in fluid communication with the openings. A heat conductive layer is arranged to span across the hollow chamber thereby subdividing the hollow chamber into an upper section and a lower section. The upper section is in fluid communication with the openings. The heat conductive layer is adapted to dissipate heat from a localized point thereon to over the entire heat conductive layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Aluminium Offshore PTE. Ltd.
    Inventor: Neelesh Uppal
  • Patent number: 8485271
    Abstract: In-computer fire suppression, the computer comprising an in-computer flame detector and an in-computer fire extinguisher including detecting, by an in-computer flame detector, a flame, releasing, by the in-computer fire extinguisher, an extinguishing agent in response to the flame detector detecting the flame; and disabling the power supply to the computer having within it the in-computer flame detector and the in-computer fire extinguisher.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Matthew R. Archibald, Jerrod K. Buterbaugh