Distributing Systems Patents (Class 169/16)
  • Publication number: 20110315406
    Abstract: Various mist-type fire protection systems for the protection of light and ordinary hazard occupancies of reduced water demand as compared to known mist type systems or sprinkler systems configured to protect the same occupancies. Three system configurations are defined by varying design criteria for the installation of: mist devices having an enlarged coverage area alone or in combination with known nozzles or sprinklers. The preferred mist devices provide for the protection of at least one of a light hazard occupancy only and a light and ordinary hazard occupancy having a ceiling with a maximum ceiling height of at least 8 ft. The preferred device include a body having a passageway defining a K-factor of less than 1 gpm/psi1/2. The preferred device includes means for diffusing the fluid at a flux density of less than 0.1 gpm/sq. ft. for a fluid pressure at the inlet of less than 500 psi. to define a coverage area of the device of over than 132 sq. ft., preferably to a maximum of 256 sq. ft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2010
    Publication date: December 29, 2011
    Inventors: Luke S. Connery, David J. Leblanc
  • Patent number: 8083002
    Abstract: Methods and systems of fire protection of an attic space having a sloped roof above a ceiling deck so as to define a concealed space defining a protection area. The method includes disposing at least one upright sprinkler having a deflector disposed beneath the roof and coupled to either a wet or a dry pipe system and defining a hydraulic demand of the at least one sprinkler as being equivalent to a hydraulic demand for the protection area so as to eliminate any increase in the hydraulic design area for the sloped roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: Tyco Fire Products LP
    Inventors: James E. Golinveaux, Mark E. Fessenden, Kevin D. Maughan
  • Patent number: 8068026
    Abstract: A periodic tester to determine the readiness of a fire pump system interfaces with a fire pump controller, an electric motor, and a sprinkler system. The fire pump controller has a power on/off sensor which interfaces with an electric motor which starts the fire pump to provide water to the sprinkler system. The power on/off system has a contactor coil as a component. The periodic tester targets two of the main components of fire system failure: the power on/off sensor and the contactor coil. The periodic tester may be retrofitted to existing systems and interface either directly or indirectly with the power on/off sensor to accommodate both systems that have a solenoid valve and those that do not. The periodic tester is designed to attempt to start the system only once during a set cycle. Any failure to start is displayed through audible and visual alarms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Inventors: Manuel J. Delerno, Vincent O. Rodriguez
  • Patent number: 8051915
    Abstract: A fire suppression sprinkler system convertible between a wet and a dry mode of operation is disclosed. The system features a field convertible valve having a bypass loop with a bypass valve for selectively configuring the valve for wet or dry mode operation. For dry mode operation, the bypass valve is open. The field convertible valve also has a system actuator, a gas control valve and a water supply shut-off valve which are open in the dry mode. In the wet mode of operation, the bypass valve is open and the gas control and water supply shut-off valves are closed. The field convertible valve operates in a latch mode controlled by the system actuator in the dry mode, and as a flapper valve in the wet mode of operation. A method of converting the mode of operation of the sprinkler system is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: Victaulic Company
    Inventors: Kevin J. Blease, Stephen R. Ide, William J. Reilly
  • Publication number: 20110259613
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an integrated fire protection and cooling system which operates with water under high pressure for use in combating fires in buildings, particularly in buildings where total flooding which can be caused by conventional sprinkler systems is especially undesirable and damaging, and also to a fire protection system that utilises a fire sprinkler piping system to distribute cooling liquids to provide a central cooling system to a building.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2009
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Applicant: COOLFIRE TECHNOLOGY LIMITED
    Inventor: Darren James Morris
  • Publication number: 20110259615
    Abstract: The invention relates to an extinguishing device designed for local firefighting in buildings on site at the source of a fire, said extinguishing device having a nozzle device having an extinguishing unit comprising a plurality of extinguishing nozzles designed for applying an extinguishing agent at the location of the source of the fire and for decentralized arrangement in the building, further comprising at least one extinguishing agent container connected to the extinguishing nozzles in a fluid-communicating fashion, at least one pressure-generating device for applying the extinguishing agent via the extinguishing nozzles, and at least one fire alarm sensor. According to the invention, the pressure-generating device is designed to generate an application pressure of at least 10 bar on the extinguishing agent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2008
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Inventor: Hasso von Blücher
  • Publication number: 20110253395
    Abstract: A non-differential dry pipe valve and fire suppression system are provided. The fire suppression system includes at least one inlet pipe, at least one outlet pipe, and a first valve assembly. The inlet pipe is at least partially filled with a fluid substance, wherein the fluid substance creates a first pressure in the inlet pipe. The outlet pipe is in fluid communication with the inlet pipe and contains a gaseous fluid, wherein the gaseous fluid creates a second pressure in the outlet pipe. The first valve assembly is in fluid communication between the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe, wherein the fluid substance enters the outlet pipe through the valve when the second pressure is altered to a predetermined pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2010
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Inventor: Robert A. Long
  • Publication number: 20110247842
    Abstract: A wildfire protection system has at least one rotating sprinkler having a base mounted atop a ridge of a structure or dwelling roof. The rotating sprinkler is coupled to one end of a typical garden hose having an opposite end coupled to a hose bib for providing water thereto. The base of the rotating sprinkler includes a metallic or fire proof material and includes mounting holes for fastening the sprinkler to the roof. When deployed, the sprinkler wets the rooftop and nearby flammable materials to prevent the structure or dwelling from being set on fire by flying embers and the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2010
    Publication date: October 13, 2011
    Inventor: Hayden Huber
  • Publication number: 20110226495
    Abstract: A wet pipe fire protection sprinkler system and method of operating a wet pipe fire sprinkler system includes providing a sprinkler system having a pipe network, a source of water for the pipe network, at least one sprinkler head connected with the pipe network and a drain valve for draining the pipe network. An inert gas source, such as a nitrogen gas source, is connected with the pipe network. Inert gas is supplied from the inert gas source to the pipe network. Water is supplied to the pipe network thereby substantially filling the pipe network with water and compressing the inert gas in the pipe network.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2011
    Publication date: September 22, 2011
    Applicants: Fire Protection Systems Corrosion Management, Inc., Holtec Gas Systems
    Inventors: David J. Burkhart, Jeffrey T. Kochelek, Kenneth Jones, Thorstein Holt
  • Publication number: 20110214888
    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: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2010
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Applicant: Lehavot Fire Protection Ltd.
    Inventors: Elan Alchalel, Israel Skitnevsky, Carlos A. Feller
  • Publication number: 20110209884
    Abstract: A method in the fire protection of an area, in which in the area are arranged several fire extinguishing spraying heads (1) which, when activated, spray extinguishing medium in the area, and between which adjacent spraying heads there is a spacing (S1, S2). The spraying heads (1) are arranged in the area (A1, A2) by defining a water flux density of extinguishing medium required for protecting the area being protected and by defining feed pressure (p1, p2) of extinguishing medium for the spraying heads (1) of a certain area or section of an area, whereby the spacing (S1, S2) of adjacent spraying heads depends on the magnitude of the feed pressure (p1, p2) and a K value of the spraying head so that the water flux density of extinguishing medium intended for spraying is substantially constant. The invention also relates to an apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2008
    Publication date: September 1, 2011
    Inventor: Göran Sundholm
  • Publication number: 20110203813
    Abstract: Fire protection apparatus, systems, and methods for addressing a fire with a mist are provided. More particularly, the invention provides systems and their method of design which provide a water mist to address and preferably suppress a fire. The invention further provides systems and methods for total flooding volume protection of a space to address a fire, preferably control, suppress, and more preferably extinguish a fire. The invention further provides atomizing devices for use in such systems and methods.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2008
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Inventors: Marcus Brian Mayhall Fenton, James Oliver French, Zachary L. Magnone, David J. LeBlanc, Sean S. Troutt
  • Patent number: 7997348
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a foam proportioning system. The foam proportioning system can include a foam pump, at least one foam line, a divert, and at least one controller. The divert can direct a portion of a flow of a liquid foam concentrate downstream of the foam pump back through the foam pump. The controller, which can be in communication with the foam pump and the divert, can be configured to automatically maintain a minimum flow rate of the liquid foam concentrate through the foam pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Sta-Rite Industries, LLC
    Inventors: Robert L. Hosfield, Robert S. Horeck, Lawrence C. Arvidson
  • Publication number: 20110186311
    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: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2011
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Inventors: Toshihide TSUJI, Tatsuya Hayashi
  • Publication number: 20110180276
    Abstract: A two-phase liquid/inert gas flow inerting fire suppression system is provided having improved liquid fire suppressant distribution within the inert gas flow. The system includes a flow distribution network having a first pipe interconnected with a second pipe at a flow splitting tee. A liquid flow redistribution device is disposed in the first pipe upstream with respect to fluid flow of the flow splitting tee.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2008
    Publication date: July 28, 2011
    Applicant: UTC FIRE & SECURITY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yehia F. Khalil, Muhidin A. Lelic, Giuliano Amantini, Ravi K. Madabhushi, Marios C. Soteriou, May L. Corn, Robert G. Dunster, Rob J. Lade
  • Publication number: 20110166714
    Abstract: A water flow control system ensures that water does not undesirably flow through water lines of the premises when the premises is unoccupied or when water usage is not desired (e.g., during sleeping hours). The water flow control system is generally operable with an alarm system to control water flow through the water lines of the premises. For example, the alarm system may include a user interface operable to receive input that establishes a state of occupancy for the premises and arms the alarm system. A sensor may detect occupancy of the premises regardless of the established state of occupancy. The water flow control system communicates with the sensors of to determine the actual occupancy within the premises and restrict the water flow to the premises when it is not desired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2011
    Publication date: July 7, 2011
    Inventor: Michael S. Stachnik
  • Publication number: 20110155397
    Abstract: An automatic fire suppression system used to provide protection of window glass and other structural elements in aircraft terminals which are exposed to exterior fires caused by natural, accidental, or intentional events comprises a directional passive microwave receiver, a central processor for processing received microwave signals over time and comparing the received signals over time with thermal event signatures stored in memory to selectively actuate a sprinkler system for protecting the window glass in the vicinity of an identified fire event. The memory may further store a model of the aircraft terminal, and the processor utilizes a fire dynamics simulator to simulate a thermal event at the terminal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2011
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Applicant: ICOVE AND ASSOCIATES, LLC
    Inventors: David J. Icove, Carl T. Lyster, David M. Banwarth
  • Patent number: 7954771
    Abstract: A mount for situating a sprinkler nozzle of a fire extinguishing system in an opening of a suspended ceiling system, the fire extinguishing system having a main line to which a downwardly directed sprinkler nozzle is connected by a flexible hose line, a bridge provided on the top side of the ceiling system extending essentially parallel thereto, the bridge being connected to girders of the ceiling system by a detachable clamp, and the sprinkler nozzle being at least indirectly attached to the bridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: Witzenmann GmbH
    Inventor: Gerd Paulig
  • Publication number: 20110127049
    Abstract: A valve assembly is provided, and includes at least one inlet configured to be at least partially filled with water, the water creating a first pressure in the at least one inlet, at least one outlet in fluid communication with the at least one inlet, the outlet configured to be at least partially filled with a chemical fluid, wherein the chemical fluid creates a second pressure in the at least one outlet, and a valve assembly in fluid communication between the at least one inlet and the at least one outlet, wherein the valve is configured to be in a closed position when the first pressure is less than the second pressure, and the valve is configured to be in an open position when the first pressure is greater than the second pressure, such that said valve fails open when the second pressure is less than the first pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2011
    Publication date: June 2, 2011
    Inventor: Robert A. Long
  • Publication number: 20110108290
    Abstract: A trim manifold assembly includes an alarm block and a release block. The alarm block is in communication with a fire suppressant fluid supply and defines a first alarm passage in communication with an alarm sensor. The release block is coupled to the alarm block and includes a drain passage and a first control passage. The first control passage is in communication with the fire suppressant fluid supply and a pressure-actuated system control valve to control communication between the fire suppressant fluid supply and the sprinkler system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2011
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Applicant: THE VIKING CORPORATION
    Inventor: Shawn J. Feenstra
  • Publication number: 20110100650
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for a dual stage hazard suppression system according to various aspects of the present invention include a housing containing a first hazard control material that is configured to be located close to a hazard source and a container containing a second hazard control material located at a distance from the hazard source. The housing may be configured to release the first hazard control material in response to a breach of the housing and/or the hazard source. The container may be configured for a timed release of the second hazard control material in response to the release of the first hazard control material. Alternatively, a sensor may be used to trigger the release of the second hazard control material in response to a triggering event separate from the initial breach of the housing and/or the hazard source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2009
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Inventors: Brian J. Cashion, Dustin C. Moran, Matthew Sampson, William A. Eckholm
  • Patent number: 7921927
    Abstract: A fire suppression system includes a gaseous extinguishing agent and a liquid extinguishing agent. At least one emitter is in fluid communication with the liquid and gas. The emitter is used to establish a gas stream, atomize and entrain the liquid into the gas stream and discharge the resulting liquid-gas stream onto the fire. The emitter has a deflector surface with a closed end cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Victaulic Company
    Inventors: William J. Reilly, Robert J. Ballard, Kevin J. Blease, Stephen R. Ide
  • Patent number: 7921577
    Abstract: A sprinkler system and a method for mitigating scaling, microbiological influenced corrosion and oxidative corrosion are disclosed. The system includes a piping network in fluid communication with a source of pressurized water and an air pump. The network is vented to the ambient. The air pump moves initially dry ambient air through the system, either by maintaining a negative or a positive air pressure within the network. The dry air absorbs residual water within the network and exhausts it to the ambient. Rate of air flow through the system is controlled by restrictor elements such as orifices, throttle valves or venturies within the piping network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Victaulic Company
    Inventors: William J. Reilly, Kevin J. Blease
  • Patent number: 7909111
    Abstract: An outdoor fire prevention system preferably includes an existing roof structure with a plurality of first and second groups of water discharging assemblies. The system may also include a mechanism for automatically distributing water to a target group of water discharging assemblies by selecting assemblies from each of the first and second groups when sensors, located in the roof, indicate that the roof surface temperature, of a target region of is elevated above a maximum threshold temperature. The outdoor fire prevention system may further include a controller that is connected to a primary water shutoff valve in fluid communication with the automatic water distributing mechanism which automatically controls the amount of water transmitted to the system. The outdoor fire prevention system may also include a primary conduit in fluid communication with the primary water shutoff valve and traveling downstream therefrom, directing water where needed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Inventors: Andres Hinojosa, Chris Martinez
  • Publication number: 20110056709
    Abstract: A trim manifold assembly is utilized to facilitate control of the control valve in a fire protection system. The trim manifold assembly utilizes a manifold block with numerous passageways to provide desired flow communication between various components, such as automatic and manual valves, check valves, inlet and exit ports, and sensor ports, by way of non-limiting example. The trim manifold assembly can be cost-effectively manufactured and may require less assembly steps. The trim manifold assembly can facilitate the assembly of a fire protection system and the attachment of the trim manifold assembly to the control valve for operation thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: THE VIKING CORPORATION
    Inventor: Shawn J. Feenstra
  • Publication number: 20110017477
    Abstract: A firefighting fluid delivery device includes a device body with a fluid passage through which a fluid flows, a fluid flow restrictor member pivotable about a pivot axis to selectively open or close the passage to thereby open or close the device, and an actuator for selectively pivoting the fluid flow restrictor member. The device further includes a sealed rotary sensor that is rotatably coupled to the fluid flow restrictor member for detecting the rotary position of the fluid flow restrictor member to thereby determine the opened or closed state of the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2010
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Applicant: ELKHART BRASS MANUFACTURING COMPANY, INC.
    Inventor: Eric N. Combs
  • Publication number: 20100326676
    Abstract: The present invention involves a pipe assembly for discharging excess condensation from a closed circuit, pressurized air, fire sprinkler system. The disclosed invention has either one or two controlled valves and a water detection system that includes a sensor for detecting a predetermined amount of water in a water reservoir and a switch that triggers the discharge of excess condensation when a certain predetermined threshold is reached. The water detection system also contains an air pressure switch with sensor that deactivates the present invention in an event of sprinkler system activation. The water detection system determines the open and closed states of the controlled valves automatically or in response to inputs from a manual actuator switch or in response to a command from a remote command center.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2010
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Inventors: JOSEPH PECORARO, RALPH FRAGOLA
  • Patent number: 7857069
    Abstract: A method for activating a sprinkler system comprises maintaining a liquid extinguishant in system pipes under a standby pressure that is less than the operating pressure, determining an arrangement of the sprinklers that will control a fire, and opening the sprinkler system valve in response to a drop in pressure in each of the pipes to which at least one of the sprinklers of the arrangement is connected. An alternate method comprises providing a bypass around the system valve, and opening the system valve in response to (1) a predetermined flow of liquid extinguishant through the bypass and (2) a drop in pressure in the sprinkler system below a predetermined pressure. In a variation of the alternate method, the system valve is opened in response only to a predetermined flow of liquid extinguishant through the bypass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: FM Global Technologies LLC
    Inventor: Hong-Zeng Yu
  • Patent number: 7854270
    Abstract: In the event of a failure of a fire prevention or extinguishing system, an inertization method reduces the fire risk in an enclosed protected area, where the oxygen content in the area can be maintained on a control concentration that lies below an operating concentration for a certain time period, so that the emergency operation phase is sufficiently long to prevent the ignition and/or re-ignition of combustible materials therein. The control concentration is maintained for an emergency operation period by a redundant secondary source. Alternatively, the control concentration and the operating concentration, while forming a safety margin, can be lowered so far below the design concentration that in the event of a primary source failure, the growth curve of the oxygen content reaches a limit concentration determined for the area in a predefined period, which is sufficiently long to continue to prevent the ignition and/or re-ignition of the combustible materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: Amrona AG (CH)
    Inventor: Ernst-Werner Wagner
  • Publication number: 20100314138
    Abstract: The Humidity Modifier System is water dispensing fire suppression network of aerosol spray nozzles and piping support apparatus for an in ground and structure attachment application. The system water supply can be independently stored, swimming pool or retrofitted to the property utilities. The water pumps used to pressurize the water in the line of the system are powered by an independent generator or gasoline. When the Humidity Modifier System is on and charged the nozzles' aerosol distribution produce a barrier of continuously suspended droplets. The densely concentrated mist makes the area less conducive to fires. The approach of modifying surrounding air to suppress the fire is the new direction. The Humidity Modifier System technique is adaptable to any environment, easy to install, and affordable. The Humidity Modifier can be made cookie cutter to fit any structure or area. My system is environmental safe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2008
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventor: Gary Weatherspoon
  • Patent number: 7849931
    Abstract: An integrated environmental control system for a cargo stowage compartment in a mobile platform, for example in a commercial passenger jet aircraft. A fire detection/suppression subsystem is integrated together with an airflow management system. The airflow management system operates to circulate, and optionally to heat or cool, air withdrawn from a cargo stowage compartment of the aircraft before the air is released back into the cargo stowage compartment. A fire suppression substance, for example, Halon gas, can be discharged directly into a recirculation duct of the airflow management system, thus reducing the duct work required to achieve fire suppression and ventilation operations for the cargo stowage compartment. The integration of the fire detection/suppression and airflow management system operations reduces the overall amount, complexity and weight of the ducting employed in a cargo stowage compartment of a commercial jet aircraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Casey Y. K. Ng
  • Publication number: 20100288516
    Abstract: The disclosed embodiments relate to a pressurised fluid ejection device. More especially, the disclosed embodiments relate to such a device especially intended for fire fighting with improved reliability and efficiency, especially concerning the device placing the tank in communication with the fluid distribution circuit, including: a tank containing fluid, a fluid ejection port, ejection port closing means, a device capable of opening the said closing means including a breakable seal and means capable of retaining the seal after breakage comprising a pivot with an axis perpendicular to the ejected fluid flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2009
    Publication date: November 18, 2010
    Applicant: AIRBUS FRANCE
    Inventors: Christian FABRE, Alain BIGNOLAIS
  • Patent number: 7828069
    Abstract: The present invention is a spraying system that extinguishes flying embers that may land on a roof from brush fires or forest fires. This includes a submersible pump at the bottom of a well that is attached to a supply pipe that allows water to be pumped into a reservoir. Another submersible pump is inside the reservoir that pumps water thru a supply pipe that is attached to the roof. This area is called a water station that may also be equipped with a generator for a backup power source. The supply pipe has pipe couplings attached at certain intervals and has sprayers installed into the couplings. These sprayers will then give off an adequate amount of water to soak down the entire roof area in the event of an approaching fire. All of this is assembled and placed in specially designed roof fasteners that are installed throughout the entire hip and ridge of the roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Inventor: Allan Wayne Lee
  • Patent number: 7819201
    Abstract: An upright ESFR sprinkler includes a generally tubular body, at least one frame arm, a closure assembly, an unactuated heat responsive trigger assembly and a deflector assembly with a K-factor greater than 14, and preferably 16.8. The passageway extends between inlet and outlet openings. The closure is positioned proximate the outlet so as to occlude the passageway with a Bellville seal being. An ejection spring is coupled to the closure assembly. The heat responsive trigger assembly has a Response Time Index of 40 meter1/2second1/2 (m1/2sec1/2) or less. The deflector assembly includes a nosepiece and a plate like redirecting member. The plate like redirecting member faces the outlet and is coupled to the at least one frame arm and spaced from the outlet opening. The plate shaped member includes a first generally planar portion, a conical second portion, and a third portion extending from the conical second portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: Tyco Fire Products LP
    Inventors: Donald B. Pounder, Michael A. Fischer
  • Publication number: 20100263884
    Abstract: CPVC piping systems comprising a network of CPVC pipe lengths in which at least some of the pipe lengths are interconnected with mechanical devices having resilient sealing members that are chemically compatible with the CPVC composition are described herein. Repairs and system modifications can be made without the use of solvent cement. In-line joints are formed with a coupling device including a pair of arcuate coupling segments having a first end, a second end, and an interior concave surface extending between the first end and the second end. A longitudinal channel extends along the concave surface. At least one mechanical fastener is operative to detachably connect the pair of coupling segments. A resilient annular seal is located within the longitudinal channel of each segment. A branching device connects a branch pipe to a main pipe through an orifice in the main pipe utilizing a saddle-like sealing member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2010
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: LUBRIZOL ADVANCED MATERIALS, INC.
    Inventors: Michael P. Perkovich, Andrew M. Olah, Gary L. Johnson, Stanley J. Nerderman, Joey L. Glassco, Jennifer M. Baker
  • Publication number: 20100263885
    Abstract: Protection systems and methods for heat-generating electronic devices are provided that include thermal management fluids that are fire extinguishing agents or can extinguish flames. The provided systems and methods include a recirculating thermal management fluid. The fluid circulates through a conduit that includes at least one valve. The valve can be opened in response to a stimulus, such as a flame or fire, diverting the fluid onto the heat-generating electronic device or onto a flame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Phillip E. Tuma
  • Patent number: 7806195
    Abstract: A combination fire detection and fire suppression system may include a fire detection system configured to detect an undesirably high temperature associated with an area. The fire detection system may include a temperature sensor including a temperature sensor array and a fire alerting system associated with the temperature sensor. The fire alerting system may be configured to receive information from the temperature sensor and generate a warning signal based on an undesirably high temperature associated with the area. The fire detection system may include a fire control panel configured to receive the warning signal. The system may also include a fire suppression system including a fire suppressant delivery system configured to provide at least one fire suppressant agent to the area associated with the undesirably high temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Federal Express Corporation
    Inventors: James B. Popp, Arthur J. Benjamin
  • Patent number: 7802629
    Abstract: The invention relates to a fire protection system consisting of a first fire protection barrier in the form of a fire protection glass pane provided with preferably monolithic glass panels (1), and a device (2) for spraying water in the form of a water spray haze (7), in front of the fire protection glass pane. The inventive fire protection system ensures, in the event of a fire, that an additional transparent fire protection barrier is provided, that heat and smoke in the room (4) swept through by the fire mix together, and that exposed escape routes, inter alia, are thus protected from dangerous heat radiation (9). The inventive fire protection system can be used in very different fields of application, e.g. for interior glass panes or screens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignees: Schott AG, Forteg Brandschutz GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Ruediger Freitag, Gerrit Panzner, Jens Klossek, Ruediger Kopp
  • Publication number: 20100213291
    Abstract: A tube-end device for fire extinguishment jets and sprays pressurized and fed water, seawater, or aqueous fire-extinguishing agent from a tube end. The tube-end device for fire extinguishment is provided with: an induction electrode unit disposed in an emission space side of a nozzle unit positioned inside the tube end; a water-side electrode unit disposed at a position of the interior of a tube main body in contact with fire-extinguishing water; a voltage applying device which applies an external electric field, which is generated by applying a voltage between the induction electrode unit and the water-side electrode unit, to the water, seawater, or fire-extinguishing agent in the process of jetting from the nozzle unit, electrically charges jetted particles, and emit the particles; and a battery which supplies power to the voltage applying device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2010
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Inventors: Toshihide Tsuji, Tatsuya Hayashi
  • Patent number: 7775292
    Abstract: A monitor apparatus and method for monitoring, verifying, and prompting an existing CO2 type fire suppression system in a room or building protected by the suppression system. In its most preferred form the monitor apparatus is a unit contained in a cabinet or housing placed in the protected room, with only a signal connection to the suppression system. The monitor apparatus has a suppressant gas concentration sensor enabled by a discharge signal received from the suppression system, and a datalogger to keep a verifiable record of the suppression system's discharge performance. The monitor unit sends a continue-discharge signal back to the suppression system independently of the continuity of the suppression system's discharge signal if a desired gas concentration level in the room is not reached or held per the suppression system's own requirements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Inventor: Ernest K. Romanco
  • Publication number: 20100193201
    Abstract: The invention describes a foam extinguisher device with an extinguisher water supply unit for an extinguisher water-foaming agent mixture and with a pressurizing gas supply unit with a pressure regulating device for a gaseous medium, in particular compressed air. In a gas injection mechanism, the medium is added to the extinguisher water-foaming agent mixture and then delivered to a discharge mechanism. The pressure regulating device is provided in the form of a pressure reducing valve. Via an adjusting device of a pressure-regulating element, an output pressure of the medium within a pre-selectable differential pressure range is adapted to a pressure level of the flow of extinguisher water prevailing at the adjusting device constituting a reference pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2006
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Inventor: Andreas Zeller
  • Patent number: 7766092
    Abstract: Fire sprinkler system comprising a network of CPVC pipe lengths in which at least some of the pipe lengths are interconnected with mechanical devices having resilient sealing members that are chemically compatible with the CPVC composition. Repairs and system modifications can be made without the use of solvent cement. In-line joints are formed with a coupling device including a pair of arcuate coupling segments having a first end, a second end, and an interior concave surface extending between the first end and the second end. A longitudinal channel extends along the concave surface. At least one mechanical fastener is operative to detachably connect the pair of coupling segments. A resilient annular seal is located within the longitudinal channel of each segment. A branching device connects a branch pipe to a main pipe through an orifice in the main pipe utilizing a saddle-like sealing member. The pipe assemblies are able to pass UL testing protocols for wet fire sprinkler systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Lubrizol Advanced Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael P. Perkovich, Andrew M. Olah, Gary L. Johnson, Stanley J. Nerderman
  • Patent number: 7766091
    Abstract: An early suppression fast response pendent-type fire protection sprinkler is suitable for use in accordance with one or more of NFPA 13, NFPA 231 and NFPA 231C to protect single row rack storage, double row rack storage and multiple row rack storage, the sprinkler having a K-factor of about 25 and flowing pressure of about 15 pounds per square inch. Preferably, the sprinkler has a body defining an orifice and an outlet for delivering a flow of fluid from a source, and a deflector mounted with a first surface opposed to flow of fluid from the outlet. The deflector defines at least one pair of generally opposed reentrant slots extending from the first surface through the deflector, the reentrant slots extending from slot openings at an outer peripheral edge of the deflector inwardly from the peripheral edge toward a deflector axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Tyco Fire Products LP
    Inventor: Michael A. Fischer
  • Publication number: 20100181081
    Abstract: A fire suppression system includes a gaseous extinguishing agent and a liquid extinguishing agent. At least one emitter is in fluid communication with the liquid and gas. The emitter is used to establish a gas stream, atomize and entrain the liquid into the gas stream and discharge the resulting liquid-gas stream onto the fire. The emitter has a deflector surface with a closed end cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2010
    Publication date: July 22, 2010
    Applicant: Victaulic Company
    Inventors: William J. Reilly, Robert J. Ballard, Kevin J. Blease, Stephen R. Ide
  • Patent number: 7739921
    Abstract: A flow measurement system uses conduits adapted to be coupled to and throughout a liquid or gaseous fluid flow distribution system. Each conduit is instrumented to measure parameters associated with the liquid or gaseous fluid moving therethrough, and wireless transmit a unique code and data indicative of the parameters so-measured. A remotely-located receiver and output device(s) may be used to provide the data and unique code associated with each of the conduits in a human-discernable format. Each conduit may also receive data resulting in adjustment of fluid flow through the conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventor: Wade Babcock
  • Patent number: 7735570
    Abstract: An early suppression fast response pendent-type fire protection sprinkler is suitable for use in accordance with one or more of NFPA 13, NFPA 231 and NFPA 231C to protect single row rack storage, double row rack storage and multiple row rack storage, the sprinkler having a K-factor of about 25 and flowing pressure of about 15 pounds per square inch. Preferably, the sprinkler has a body defining an orifice and an outlet for delivering a flow of fluid from a source, and a deflector mounted with a first surface opposed to flow of fluid from the outlet. The deflector defines at least one pair of generally opposed reentrant slots extending from the first surface through the deflector, the reentrant slots extending from slot openings at an outer peripheral edge of the deflector inwardly from the peripheral edge toward a deflector axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: Tyco Fire Products LP
    Inventor: Michael A. Fischer
  • Patent number: 7730959
    Abstract: An early suppression fast response pendent-type fire protection sprinkler is suitable for use in accordance with one or more of NFPA 13, NFPA 231 and NFPA 231C to protect single row rack storage, double row rack storage and multiple row rack storage, the sprinkler having a K-factor of about 25 and flowing pressure of about 15 pounds per square inch. Preferably, the sprinkler has a body defining an orifice and an outlet for delivering a flow of fluid from a source, and a deflector mounted with a first surface opposed to flow of fluid from the outlet. The deflector defines at least one pair of generally opposed reentrant slots extending from the first surface through the deflector, the reentrant slots extending from slot openings at an outer peripheral edge of the deflector inwardly from the peripheral edge toward a deflector axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: Tyco Fire Products LP
    Inventor: Michael A. Fischer
  • Publication number: 20100132961
    Abstract: A fire extinguisher comprises a conduit having an air inlet and outlet. A blower unit is used for delivering a stream of air from said inlet to said outlet for extinguishing a fire. The extinguisher includes a cooling device using water to cool the stream of air entering said inlet prior to it being delivered to said fire via said outlet, and a powder delivery system for injecting and mixing a powder into said cooled stream of air prior to it leaving said outlet. The cooling device utilising a tiny fraction of water to cool air as it passes there through.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2008
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Inventor: Geoffrey Paul Sandford
  • Patent number: 7726408
    Abstract: A fire suppression system is disclosed. The system includes a source of pressurized gas and a source of pressurized liquid. At least one emitter is in fluid communication with the liquid and gas sources. The emitter is used to establish a gas stream, atomize and entrain the liquid into the gas stream and discharge the resulting liquid-gas stream onto the fire. A method of operating the system is also disclosed. The method includes establishing a gas stream having first and second shock fronts using the emitter, atomizing and entraining the liquid with the gas at one of the two shock fronts to form a liquid-gas stream, and discharging the stream onto the fire. The method also includes creating a plurality of shock diamonds in the liquid-gas stream discharged from the emitter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Victaulic Company
    Inventors: William J. Reilly, Robert J. Ballard, Kevin J. Blease, Stephen R. Ide
  • Patent number: 7721812
    Abstract: A fire suppression system adapted for use in a lavatory of an aircraft. The system includes a supply coupled to one or more fluid discharge nozzles via one or more fluid flow lines. A pressure source in communication with the fluid flow lines provides pressure to assist in supplying a pressurized flow of fluid through the flow line(s) to the nozzles(s). Furthermore, the system is capable of using the potable water supply of the aircraft or it can be self-contained with its own water supply reservoir. If self-contained, the system includes a pressurized fluid source to assist in supplying water to the discharge nozzle(s).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Thomas L Reynolds