Automatic Valves Patents (Class 169/19)
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Publication number: 20110048746Abstract: A fire sprinkler including a generally tubular body having inlet and outlet ends is disclosed. The body defines a fluid flow passage extending between the inlet and the outlet such that the outlet is in fluid flow communication with the inlet. A magnetized member is disposed within the fluid flow passage and is movable between a first position wherein fluid flow communication between the outlet and the inlet is blocked and a second position wherein fluid flow communication between the outlet and the inlet is open. A temperature sensitive magnetic member is coupled to the body and has sufficient magnetic properties to attract the magnetized member below a predetermined temperature, thereby maintaining the magnetized member in the first position. The temperature sensitive magnetic member loses a sufficient percentage of its magnetic properties at and above the predetermined temperature, thereby allowing the magnetized member to move to the second position.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 5, 2008Publication date: March 3, 2011Applicant: Temple Unversity - of the Commonwealth System of Higher EducationInventors: Rongjia Tao, Ke Huang, Edward Kaczanowicz
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Publication number: 20110011600Abstract: A hazard control system according to various aspects of the present invention is configured to deliver a control material in response to detection of a hazard. In one embodiment, the hazard control system comprises a pressure tube having an internal pressure and configured to leak in response to exposure to heat. The leak changes the internal pressure and generates a pneumatic signal. A fire detector may also detect a fire condition associated with fire. A valve may be coupled to the fire detector and the pressure tube. The valve is configured to change the internal pressure and generate the pneumatic signal in response to a signal from the fire detector. The pneumatic signal triggers a delivery system to deliver the control material.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 24, 2010Publication date: January 20, 2011Inventors: WILLIAM A. ECKHOLM, Len Seebaluck
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Patent number: 7857069Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 5, 2006Date of Patent: December 28, 2010Assignee: FM Global Technologies LLCInventor: Hong-Zeng Yu
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Patent number: 7814983Abstract: A fire protection system comprises a supply pipe having a first fluid pressurized to a first pressure and a network of pipes having a plurality of sprinklers. The network of pipes have a second fluid being pressurized to a second pressure at approximately 5.5 times the first pressure. The system further comprises a dry pipe valve including a body defining a passage extending along a longitudinal axis between an inlet coupled to the supply pipe and an outlet coupled to the network of pipes. The inlet has an inlet diameter of approximately WD inches and a seat disposed in the body has a seating surface with a diameter AD approximately less than two times WD inches. The dry pipe valve further includes a clapper pivotable about an axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis between a first position occluding the passage when the ratio of the second pressure to the first pressure is at least 5.5 and a second position permitting fluid flow through the passage when the ratio is less than 5.5.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2008Date of Patent: October 19, 2010Assignee: Grinnell LLCInventor: Yoram Ringer
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Publication number: 20100059234Abstract: An automatic flow restrictor includes a movement sensor that detects undesired movement of a firefighting apparatus relative to a support surface and automatically reduces the flow of fluid through the apparatus to thereby reduce reaction forces acting upon the apparatus. The sensor may be a slidable member or an actuatable lever, for example, that detects movement of the apparatus along or away from a support surface, and actuates an adjuster to restrict the flow of fluid until the forces are balanced and the apparatus stops moving relative to the support surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 4, 2009Publication date: March 11, 2010Applicant: ELKHART BRASS MANUFACTURING COMPANY, INC.Inventor: Eric N. Combs
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Patent number: 7673695Abstract: A dry/deluge valve for an automatic sprinkler system. The valve includes a main chamber having an input port for receiving fluid from a supply line and an output port. A clapper assembly is installed in the main chamber for sealing the input port. The clapper assembly includes a threaded valve seat configured to be screwed into a wall of the main chamber, so as to be in communication with the input port. The assembly further includes a collar configured to receive the valve seat, wherein the collar is held in position by the valve seat. A clapper configured to seal the input port, in cooperation with the valve seat, is hinged to the collar, and a lever also is hinged to the collar and is movable between a first position in which the clapper is held closed by the lever and a second position in which the clapper is allowed to open.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2006Date of Patent: March 9, 2010Assignee: The Reliable Automatic Sprinkler Co., Inc.Inventor: David Deurloo
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Publication number: 20100006304Abstract: A temperature-activated valve for a conventional fire sprinkler utilizing a hyperelastic single-crystal shape memory alloy is described. The shape-memory element expands as it is heated, forcing a bolt to break, thereby opening the sprinkler valve. The shape memory element typically communicates with the valve so as to force it open. The devices described are less susceptible to accidental breakage than conventional actuators, and have fewer moving parts. Transition temperature of the shape memory alloy can be tuned to a narrow range.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 15, 2009Publication date: January 14, 2010Inventors: Alfred David Johnson, Roger Graham Gilbertson, Valery Martynov
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Publication number: 20090314501Abstract: Closure device 2 for pressure cylinders 6 storing extinguishing fluid 4, with a pressure cylinder 6 and an adapter piece 8 for the connection of an immersion pipe 10 arranged in the pressure cylinder 6, with a connection piece 12 arranged outside the pressure cylinder 6. In order to guarantee operation of a fire extinguishing device secure against frost, it is proposed that the immersion pipe 10 and the connection piece 12 are formed in such a way that the connection piece 12 in an idle state is partially filled with extinguishing fluid 4, the connection piece 12 comprises a riser pipe 14, in such a way that the riser pipe 14 lies at least partially above the level 16 of the extinguishing fluid 4, and that the riser pipe 14 comprises a bursting disc 18, in such a way that a gas space 20 is formed between the bursting disc 18 and the extinguishing fluid 4.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 30, 2006Publication date: December 24, 2009Applicant: FOGTEC BRANDSCHUTZ GMBH & CO. KGInventors: Dirk Sprakel, Max Lakkonen
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Patent number: 7530402Abstract: A water column supervisory switch having a probe arrangement and probe circuitry for detecting the presence of a conductive medium that has reached a predetermined level above a clapper valve inside a dry pipe valve for a sprinkler system is disclosed. The probe arrangement comprises a housing and a probe operatively associated with probe circuitry that provides a means for activating an alarm when the conductive medium reaches the predetermined level in order for maintenance personnel to drain the water from the dry pipe valve.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2006Date of Patent: May 12, 2009Assignee: Potter Electric Signal Company, LLCInventor: Michael F. Cabral
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Publication number: 20090095493Abstract: A temperature-activated valve for a conventional fire sprinkler utilizing a hyperelastic single-crystal shape memory alloy is described. The shape-memory element expands as it is heated, forcing a bolt to break, thereby opening the sprinkler valve. The devices described are less susceptible to accidental breakage than conventional actuators, and have fewer moving parts. Transition temperature of the shape memory alloy can be tuned to a narrow range.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 24, 2008Publication date: April 16, 2009Applicant: TiNi Alloy CompanyInventors: Alfred David Johnson, Roger Graham Gilbertson, Valery Martynov
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Publication number: 20080314602Abstract: The portable fire extinguisher has a housing, a pair of nozzles protruding from the housing, and a heat-responsive valve mounted outside the housing for detecting high heat intensity at proximity of the housing. The housing contains a cylinder of inert gas under pressure, a reservoir of fire suppressant material, and a piping system connecting the cylinder of inert gas, the heat-responsive valve, and the reservoir of fire suppressant material to the nozzles. The housing has a carrying handle formed thereon and magnets on surfaces thereof for retaining the housing to a range hood in a detachable manner. The piping system comprises a manual valve mounted in parallel with the heat-responsive valve for selective operation of the fire extinguisher in a manual mode. The heat-responsive valve is mounted near the top surface of the housing for detecting high heat intensity as close as possible from the ceiling of a range hood.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 21, 2007Publication date: December 25, 2008Inventor: Byron Lohnes
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Patent number: 7444893Abstract: A booster actuator 10 may be positioned between the solenoid 12 and a valve 14, and increases the energy output from the solenoid to activate the valve. The booster actuator 10 may include a force input member 28 and a force output member 30 each linearly movable with respect to a body 20 from an initial position to an activated position. A coil spring 46 biases the input member to the initial input position, while a plurality of disk springs 48 bias the output member 30 to the activated output position. A plurality of linking members 32 each pivotable with respect to the body normally retain the force output member in the initial position, but upon movement of the input member to the activated position release the force output member in response to the disk springs.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2004Date of Patent: November 4, 2008Assignee: Ansul IncorporatedInventor: James R. Gressel
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Patent number: 7416030Abstract: A mechanical time delay apparatus for creating a time delay between a pneumatic inlet for connection to a source of pressurized gas and a pneumatic outlet includes a primary pneumatic flow path from the inlet to the outlet. A movable gate is associated with the primary pneumatic flow path and is movable between an open position and a closed position. The gate is urged by a biasing force to the closed position. In the closed position, the gate is disposed to block a flow of gas through the primary pneumatic flow path. In the open position, the gate permits such flow. The time delay apparatus further includes an accumulation chamber in communication with the gate for a gas pressure within the accumulation chamber to urge the gate against the biasing force to the open position when the gas pressure exceeds a threshold pressure. A secondary pneumatic flow path extends the inlet to the accumulation chamber.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2005Date of Patent: August 26, 2008Assignee: Kidde Fenwal, Inc.Inventors: Richard Lawrence Lupien, Peter Karalis
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Patent number: 7398793Abstract: A rapid opening pressure regulating valve reduced in size and having improved flow rate characteristics, a fire extinguishing apparatus using the same, a high-pressure gas cylinder apparatus, and an apparatus rapidly supplying a fluid. When the rapid opening pressure regulating valve is assembled, a valve element member body (22) is inserted into a body (1), and a valve element (21) is inserted into an inlet nozzle part (11) from the inlet (11a) thereof and fixed to the lower end of the valve element member body (22). The valve element (21) is fixed to the valve element member body (22) by, for example, threading the inner circumferential surface of the valve element (21) and the corresponding lower end outer peripheral surface of the valve element member body (22) and screwing the lower end of the valve element body (22) into the valve element (21).Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2004Date of Patent: July 15, 2008Assignee: Air Water Safety Service, Inc.Inventors: Naoki Itano, Hideaki Goto, Koichiro Mizoguchi
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Patent number: 7389824Abstract: An early suppression fast response fire protection system includes a sprinkler piping system with at least one sprinkler head assembly, a water supply system, and a check valve in fluid communication with the sprinkler piping system and the water supply system. An antifreeze solution supply system is in fluid communication with the sprinkler piping system, with the check valve isolating the antifreeze solution from the water supply unless a fire condition occurs.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2006Date of Patent: June 24, 2008Assignee: The Viking CorporationInventor: Eldon D Jackson
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Patent number: 7353882Abstract: A horizontal sidewall fire protection sprinkler is provided, including a deflector having a vertical face, transverse to the fluid flow from the output orifice, and a horizontal shelf positioned above and perpendicular to the vertical face. A portion of the horizontal shelf extends in the fluid flow direction by a first length, with respect to the vertical face, and this first length is less than about half of a total length of the horizontal shelf in the fluid flow direction. The sprinkler is installed in a support cup having a raised mounting platform configured to receive the sprinkler body and a cylindrical outer surface, with a front edge in a fluid flow direction, and a back edge. The mounting platform of the support cup is closer to the front edge of the support cup in an axial direction thereof than to the back edge.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2006Date of Patent: April 8, 2008Assignee: The Reliable Automatic Sprinkler Co., Inc.Inventor: Oliver S. Pahila
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Patent number: 7353881Abstract: A non-electrically actuated ganged fire extinguisher system for use in an enclosure of a size larger than the capacity of a single pre-engineered fire extinguisher comprises at least two pre-engineered fire extinguishers positioned at spaced locations in the enclosure. An actuation valve is mounted on the outlet of each fire extinguisher. A fluid operated valve actuator for each valve retains the valve in a closed state when the actuator is pressurized and opens the valve when the actuator is depressurized. A vent line connects the valve actuators and provides fluid communication therebetween, such that the actuators are maintained at the same pressure state. At least one non-electrical temperature sensor is mounted in fluid communication with the vent line. The temperature sensor opens an outlet to the vent line and releases the pressure therein when the temperature in the vicinity of the sensor reaches a predetermined value indicative of a fire hazard.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2005Date of Patent: April 8, 2008Inventors: Larry W. Akins, Walter Lisowski
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Patent number: 7322423Abstract: A fire protection system comprises a supply pipe having a first fluid pressurized to a first pressure and a network of pipes having a plurality of sprinklers. The network of pipes have a second fluid being pressurized to a second pressure at approximately 5.5 times the first pressure. The system further comprises a dry pipe valve including a body defining a passage extending along a longitudinal axis between an inlet coupled to the supply pipe and an outlet coupled to the network of pipes. The inlet has an inlet diameter of approximately WD inches and a seat disposed in the body has a seating surface with a diameter AD approximately less than two times WD inches. The dry pipe valve further includes a clapper pivotable about an axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis between a first position occluding the passage when the ratio of the second pressure to the first pressure is at least 5.5 and a second position permitting fluid flow through the passage when the ratio is less than 5.5.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2005Date of Patent: January 29, 2008Assignee: Grinnell LLCInventor: Yoram Ringer
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Publication number: 20070221388Abstract: A sprinkler system comprises a network of CPVC conduits and a plurality of sprinklers. The system includes an electrically activated solenoid control valve to allow fluid to flow in the pipe network. One or more fire detectors operate independently of the condition of the sprinklers. Upon detection of an incipient fire situation, a fire detector sends an electrical signal to cause activation of the control valve. Upon activation of the control valve, fire suppression fluid is caused to flow through the conduits before the incipient fire situation matures into a sprinkler-triggering event. The cooling effect of fluid flowing through the conduit enables the conduit to resist structural failure prior to sprinkler deployment. The control valve may be disposed at a remote location in the sprinkler line and be operable as part of an inspector's test connection.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 16, 2007Publication date: September 27, 2007Applicant: NOVEON, INC.Inventor: Gary L. Johnson
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Patent number: 7240740Abstract: A valve is disclosed having an inlet duct aligned with an outlet duct and an angularly oriented elliptical seat positioned between them. A pressure chamber faces the seat. A pivoting valve closure member is positioned between the pressure chamber and the seat. An asymmetrical rolling diaphragm is attached to the closure member and defines part of the pressure chamber. A seat engaging surface on the side of the closure member opposite the pressure chamber is sealingly engageable with the seat to close the valve. The valve closure member is pivoted into the closed positioned by pressurizing the pressure chamber. The valve remains closed against hydraulic pressure in the inlet duct. The valve is permitted to open by de-pressurizing the pressure chamber, allowing the closure member to pivot out of engagement with the seat. Fluid may then flow from the inlet duct to the outlet duct.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 2004Date of Patent: July 10, 2007Assignee: Victaulic CompanyInventors: William J. Reilly, Joseph K. Banis
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Patent number: 7237619Abstract: An automatic fire sprinkler having a variable orifice, the sprinkler having a variable orifice associated with the automatic fire sprinkler, and wherein the orifice is responsive to the water inlet pressure of the sprinkler.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2003Date of Patent: July 3, 2007Inventor: Ralph R. Mehr
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Patent number: 7185711Abstract: A fire suppression system includes system piping and at least one sprinkler with the system piping for delivering fire suppressant to the sprinkler. The sprinkler has an outlet and a temperature sensitive trigger with temperature sensitive trigger opening the outlet for dispersing fire suppressant when sensing temperatures associated with a fire condition. The system also includes a deluge valve that is in selective fluid communication with the system piping and has a normally closed condition whereby the system piping is normally dry. The deluge valve controls the flow of suppressant to the system piping and the sprinkler. A control system, which is in communication with at least one source of power, opens the deluge valve in a fire condition when the power source is in a powered condition and opens the deluge valve in a loss of pressure condition when the power source is in a loss of power condition.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2005Date of Patent: March 6, 2007Assignee: The Viking CorporationInventors: Eldon D Jackson, Vinh Boa Hoa
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Patent number: 7104333Abstract: A differential-type dry pipe valve for a fire protection sprinkler system has a ratio of effective air sealing area to service water sealing area that is smaller than a ratio of service water pressure to system air pressure at which the fire protection sprinkler system is actuated.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2003Date of Patent: September 12, 2006Assignee: Grinnell CorporationInventor: Yoram Ringer
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Patent number: 7055612Abstract: A fire suppression system includes system piping and at least one sprinkler with the system piping for delivering fire suppressant to the sprinkler. The sprinkler has an outlet and a temperature sensitive trigger with temperature sensitive trigger opening the outlet for dispersing fire suppressant when sensing temperatures associated with a fire condition. The system also includes a deluge valve that is in selective fluid communication with the system piping and has a normally closed condition whereby the system piping is normally dry. The deluge valve controls the flow of suppressant to the system piping and the sprinkler. A control system, which is in communication with at least one source of power, opens the deluge valve in a fire condition when the power source is in a powered condition and opens the deluge valve in a loss of pressure condition when the power source is in a loss of power condition.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2003Date of Patent: June 6, 2006Assignee: The Viking CorporationInventors: Eldon D. Jackson, Vinh Boa Hoa
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Patent number: 7021166Abstract: A booster actuator 10 may be positioned between the solenoid 12 and a valve 14, and increases the energy output from the solenoid to activate the valve. The booster actuator 10 may include a force input member 28 and a force output member 30 each linearly movable with respect to a body 20 from an initial position to an activated position. A coil spring 46 biases the input member to the initial input position, while a plurality of disk springs 48 bias the output member 30 to the activated output position. A plurality of linking members 32 each pivotable with respect to the body normally retain the force output member in the initial position, but upon movement of the input member to the activated position release the force output member in response to the disk springs.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2004Date of Patent: April 4, 2006Assignee: Ansul IncorporatedInventor: James R. Gressel
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Patent number: 7017673Abstract: A sprinkling or spraying head, for fire fighting systems, comprises a nozzle holder cap which is removably coupled to the body of the sprinkling head and comprises a plurality of nozzles designed for ejecting a fighting liquid in a nebulized form.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2003Date of Patent: March 28, 2006Inventor: Armando Gargani
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Patent number: 6976544Abstract: A sprinkler comprising a temperature-activated means (1), a housing (2), a central nozzle (4), a side nozzle (5a, 5b), a first channel (9-15-6-12-13) for guiding a medium to the central nozzle, and a second channel (9-15-17-14-7a) for guiding the medium to the side nozzle, the second channel being closed with a spindle means (8) while the sprinkler is in its standby state.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2002Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Marioff Corporation OyInventor: Göran Sundholm
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Patent number: 6962208Abstract: A pendant sprinkler head includes a sprinkler body formed with a central orifice, and a sealing member positioned within the orifice and in sealing engagement with the inlet. A deflector assembly is at least partially positioned within the orifice and includes an annular ring having a pair of attachment arms secured to a deflector plate positioned in proximity to, or partially within the outlet. A retaining ring positioned within the orifice acts as a stop, preventing the annular ring from being expelled from the orifice. According to another aspect of the invention, a pendent sprinkler head includes a sprinkler body and a body extension connected to the body. A deflector plate is formed with a plurality of support members received by a retaining ring positioned in proximity to the bottom of the sprinkler body, and within the body extension. The body extension is configured to capture the retaining ring upon activation, enabling the deflector plate to depend below the body extension.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2001Date of Patent: November 8, 2005Assignee: The Viking CorporationInventors: Scott Thomas Franson, Kenneth Gordon Vos, Thomas Edgar Winebrenner, Andrew Taylor Thompson
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Patent number: 6955226Abstract: A non-electrically actuated ganged fire extinguisher system for use in an enclosure of a size larger than the capacity of a single pre-engineered fire extinguisher comprises at least two pre-engineered fire extinguishers positioned at spaced locations in the enclosure. An actuation valve is mounted on the outlet of each fire extinguisher. A fluid operated valve actuator for each valve retains the valve in a closed state when the actuator is pressurized and opens the valve when the actuator is depressurized. A vent line connects the valve actuators and provides fluid communication therebetween, such that the actuators are maintained at the same pressure state. At least one non-electrical temperature sensor is mounted in fluid communication with the vent line. The temperature sensor opens an outlet to the vent line and releases the pressure therein when the temperature in the vicinity of the sensor reaches a predetermined value indicative of a fire hazard.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2003Date of Patent: October 18, 2005Inventors: Larry W. Akins, Walter Liskowski
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Patent number: 6942040Abstract: The automatic fire extinguishing method using liquefied CO2 to regulate the distribution of fire extinguishing agents characterised in that this method uses liquid CO2 as: an independent fire extinguishing agent or combined with other fire extinguishing agents to create new fire extinguishing agents which have strong effects and high efficiency; as a dynamic source producing pressure in the tank to push fire extinguishing agents into the fire area, and as a dynamic source of the entire fire extinguishing system and automating the process.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2000Date of Patent: September 13, 2005Inventors: Phan Dinh Phuong, Phan Trong Nghia
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Patent number: 6889912Abstract: An apparatus and method for clean, efficient removal of water and odor from a sprinkler systems including a vessel, a pump which creates a reduced pressure in the vessel, and a connector for attaching the device to the sprinkler system to remove trapped water. The vacuum pump is powered by a power source, and the reduced pressure created by vacuum pump is controlled by a regulator such that the vacuum pressure is maintained and does not cause damage to the gaskets in the sprinkler system.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 2002Date of Patent: May 10, 2005Assignee: GECCO LLCInventors: Gerald M. Clum, Eric M. Clum
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Patent number: 6871802Abstract: A relatively low pressure inert gas hazard suppression system (20) is provided which is designed to protect a room (22) or the like from the effects of fire or other hazard. The system (20) includes a plurality of pressurized inert gas cylinders (24) each equipped with a valve unit (26); each valve unit (26) is in turn coupled via a conduit (28) to a delivery manifold (30). The respective valve units (26) are operable to deliver gas from the cylinders (24) at a generally constant pressure (usually around 10-100 bar) throughout a substantial portion of the time of gas delivery, to thereby provide effective hazard suppression without the need for expensive high-pressure gas handling and distribution hardware and a reduction in room venting area due to lower room over-pressurization. Each valve unit (26) has a valve body (48) and a shiftable piston-type sealing member (56).Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2003Date of Patent: March 29, 2005Assignee: Fike CorporationInventors: Bradford T. Stilwell, Michael J. Keiter, Devang Narharilal Patel, Keith Leslie Goodall
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Patent number: 6848513Abstract: A trim assembly for a fire protection system valve includes a mounting member and a piping assembly supported by the mounting member. The piping assembly includes a priming line with an inlet for receiving priming fluid from a fire suppressant fluid supply line and an outlet for delivering priming fluid to a priming chamber of the fire protection system valve. The inlet and the outlet are provided at the mounting member. The piping assembly also includes a component, which responsive to a control signal and/or a pressure differential. The component redirects priming fluid away from the outlet of the priming line in response to the control signal and/or the pressure differential for controlling the delivering of priming fluid to the priming chamber of the fire protection system valve.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2003Date of Patent: February 1, 2005Assignee: The Viking CorporationInventors: Eldon D. Jackson, Shawn Feenstra
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Publication number: 20040216895Abstract: An electrical fire suppression system for a structure having electrical fixtures includes a central computer system and a plurality of fire sensing devices distributed through the structure. A central fire suppression fluid tank is connected to fire suppression fluid pipes and a set of valves are mounted on the fire suppression fluid pipes to control fire suppression fluid flow therethrough, the valves being controlled by the central computer system. Each of the plurality of fire suppression fluid pipes extend into at least one of the electrical fixtures for transfer of fire suppression fluid directly thereto. Upon detection of fire, the fire sensing device signals the central computer system to determine the location of the fire and command the valves on the fire suppression fluid pipes to open to release fire suppression fluid therethrough for extinguishing the fire at the electrical fixture at which it started.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 28, 2003Publication date: November 4, 2004Inventors: Lenuel Boyce, Judith A. Lee
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Patent number: 6810963Abstract: A differential-type dry pipe valve for a fire protection sprinkler system has a ratio of effective air sealing area to service water sealing area that is smaller than a ratio of service water pressure to system air pressure at which the fire protection sprinkler system is actuated.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2003Date of Patent: November 2, 2004Assignee: Grinnell CorporationInventor: Yoram Ringer
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Patent number: 6722216Abstract: A booster actuator 10 may be positioned between the solenoid 12 and a valve 14, and increases the energy output from the solenoid to activate the valve. The booster actuator 10 may include a force input member 28 and a force output member 30 each linearly movable with respect to a body 20 from an initial position to an activated position. A coil spring 46 biases the input member to the initial input position, while a plurality of disk springs 48 bias the output member 30 to the activated output position. A plurality of linking members 32 each pivotable with respect to the body normally retain the force output member in the initial position, but upon movement of the input member to the activated position release the force output member in response to the disk springs.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2001Date of Patent: April 20, 2004Assignee: Ansul IncorporatedInventor: James R. Gressel
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Patent number: 6708772Abstract: A container valve for fixed fire extinguishing systems comprises a valve body (12), a closure piston (26), one sealed end of which is introduced into the release chamber (24) and the opposite end of which has a sealing surface which can be pressed against a valve seat (22). Said closure piston (26) has a pressure compensation channel (36). A closing spring (32) exerts a spring force on the closure piston (26) in the direction of the valve seat (22). A trigger device (46) enables a drop in pressure to be created in the release chamber (24), in such a way that the closure piston (26) is displaced away from its valve seat (22), coming to rest against an end stop. A sealing element (38) seals the pressure compensation channel when the closure piston (26) rests against the end stop.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2002Date of Patent: March 23, 2004Assignee: Luxembourg Patent Company S.A.Inventor: Karl Bermes
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Publication number: 20040011537Abstract: A trim assembly for a fire protection system valve includes a mounting member and a piping assembly supported by the mounting member. The piping assembly includes a priming line with an inlet for receiving priming fluid from a fire suppressant fluid supply line and an outlet for delivering priming fluid to a priming chamber of the fire protection system valve. The inlet and the outlet are provided at the mounting member. The piping assembly also includes a component, which responsive to a control signal and/or a pressure differential. The component redirects priming fluid away from the outlet of the priming line in response to the control signal and/or the pressure differential for controlling the delivering of priming fluid to the priming chamber of the fire protection system valve.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 15, 2003Publication date: January 22, 2004Inventors: Eldon D. Jackson, Shawn Feenstra
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Patent number: 6637519Abstract: A system and method for extinguishing or controlling a fire. The system has a source of a substance which is usable to extinguish a fire in a prescribed area, a control system, and an activation system. The control system has (a) a first state in which the substance from the source is prevented from being released to the prescribed area and (b) a second state wherein the substance from the source is permitted to be released to the prescribed area to extinguish or control a fire at or adjacent to the prescribed area. The activation system has a first ignition element which ignites in response to exposure to at least one of (a) a flame, (b) heat above a predetermined temperature, and (c) a product of combustion. The control system is changeable from the first state into the second state an incident of the first ignition element being ignited.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2001Date of Patent: October 28, 2003Inventor: Toshiharu Tom Miyano
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Patent number: 6637518Abstract: A fire extinguishing apparatus (10) producing a mist of water vapour with a median droplet diameter of between 50 and 500 micron for extinguishing fires in a confined risk area. The mist being generated through nozzles (18) operating at <2000 kPa (i.e. low pressure). The fire extinguishing apparatus using less than 1.0 litres of water per cubic meter of the risk area in which the fire is contained (i.e. a small volume of water).Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 1998Date of Patent: October 28, 2003Assignee: Invention Technologies Pty. Ltd.Inventors: Kenneth Hillier, Mitchell Edwin Byfield
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Publication number: 20030102137Abstract: A container valve for fixed fire extinguishing systems comprises a valve body (12), a closure piston (26), one sealed end of which is introduced into the release chamber (24) and the opposite end of which has a sealing surface which can be pressed against a valve seat (22). Said closure piston (26) has a pressure compensation channel (36). A closing spring (32) exerts a spring force on the closure piston (26) in the direction of the valve seat (22). A trigger device (46) enables a drop in pressure to be created in the release chamber (24), in such a way that the closure piston (26) is displaced away from its valve seat (22), coming to rest against an end stop. A sealing element (38) seals the pressure compensation channel when the closure piston (26) rests against the end stop.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 15, 2002Publication date: June 5, 2003Inventor: Karl Bermes
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Patent number: 6564877Abstract: An apparatus and method for releasing pressure and draining a high pressure water system includes a valve comprising a valve body having an inner cavity for water to flow therethrough, an inlet opening and an outlet opening in fluid connection with the inner cavity, a valve seat assembly comprising a first biasing member exerting a force against a valve plunger cooperating with a seal to thereby substantially close the valve at or above a predetermined system pressure, and an override comprising a manual activator having a second biasing member and a cooperating member positioned to transmit to said valve seat assembly a force applied by an operator, to thereby manually open the valve when pressure exceeds the predetermined system pressure.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2000Date of Patent: May 20, 2003Assignee: Class 1, Inc.Inventors: Ronald L. Ewers, Bradley A. Ewers, Gregory S. Thompson
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Patent number: 6557645Abstract: A differential-type dry pipe valve for a fire protection sprinkler system has a ratio of effective air sealing area to service water sealing area that is smaller than a ratio of service water pressure to system air pressure at which the fire protection sprinkler system is actuated.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2000Date of Patent: May 6, 2003Assignee: Grinnell CorporationInventor: Yoram Ringer
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Patent number: 6554077Abstract: The sprinkler arrangements described in the specification include a sprinkler body with an axial passage and an axially movable assembly movable between a sealing position and an open position and including a Belleville washer engageable with a shoulder in the sprinkler body to seal the axial passage in the sealing position and a deflector to distribute water emerging from the passage when the movable assembly is in the open position. A locking assembly which is separable from the sprinkler body normally retains the axially movable assembly in the sealing position and is releasable by a temperature sensitive apparatus at an elevated temperature to permit the movable assembly to move to the open position. In one embodiment the axially movable member has a central post which is slidably guided by a tripod at the outer end of the axial passage.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2001Date of Patent: April 29, 2003Assignee: The Reliable Automatic Sprinkler Co., Inc.Inventor: George S. Polan
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Patent number: 6347669Abstract: The invention relates to a sprinkler comprising a holder body (3), at least one nozzle (2), a heat-activated release means (18) and a cover (13) which in a protective position is arranged in front of said nozzle when the sprinkler is in an inactive mode, the sprinkler comprising means (6, 10) for providing a displacement of the cover from the protective position to a free position in which the cover keeps clear of the nozzle so that it can spray extinguishing medium when the sprinkler is in an active mode, the holder body comprising an inlet (5) for incoming extinguishing medium.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2000Date of Patent: February 19, 2002Inventor: Göran Sundholm
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Patent number: 6345670Abstract: The invention relates to a spray head comprising a holder body (3′), at least one nozzle (2′, 2c′) and a cover (13′) which in a protective position is arranged in front of said nozzle when the spray head is in an inactive mode, the spray head comprising means (6′, 10′) for providing a displacement of the cover from the protective position to a free position in which the cover keeps clear of the nozzle so that it can spray extinguishing medium when the spray head is in an active mode, the holder body comprising an inlet (5′) for incoming extinguishing medium.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2000Date of Patent: February 12, 2002Inventor: Göran Sundholm
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Patent number: 6346203Abstract: A method for suppressing a fire at a burning material comprising delivering to said burning material (a) an inert gas and (b) a gaseous compound selected from the group consisting of a hydrofluorocarbon, an iodofluorocarbon, and a mixture thereof, gases (a) and (b) being delivered in a combined concentration sufficient to extinguish the fire.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2000Date of Patent: February 12, 2002Assignee: PCBU Services, Inc.Inventors: Mark L. Robin, W. Douglas Register, Thomas F. Rowland
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Patent number: 6341655Abstract: Fires in kitchen appliances are detected and controlled by a detection and control system that activates a fire extinguishing system when the fire is detected, terminates the supply of electricity and/or gas to the appliances, and initiates audible and visual alarms. The audible alarm can be terminated, while the visual alarm continues until the system is restored to a pre-detection state. The system includes a control circuit, and a fire detection means with a moveable member that engages a normally closed microswitch in the control circuit to open the control circuit. Relays in the control circuit change state upon opening of the control circuit to de-energize the appliance, and audible and visual alarms are activated. The audible alarm can be manually terminated. However, the visual alarm remains activated until the system is recharged and returned to the ready state.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2000Date of Patent: January 29, 2002Inventors: Carl C. Busian, Earl E. Spears
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Patent number: 6336510Abstract: A sprinkler device for fire extinguishing systems is adapted to be coupled to a fluid supply line and placed in an environment which is to be protected from fire. The device has an actuator sensitive to room temperature which causes motion of a shutter for controlling the flow of the fluid to an outlet when the room temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold. The actuation device has an unbreakable container in which there is stored a material having a volume which is a function of the container's temperature, a shaft movable in response to a change in volume of the material, and a closure and sealing device for the chamber and shaft.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2000Date of Patent: January 8, 2002Assignee: Eltek S.p.A.Inventor: Costanzo Gadini
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Patent number: 6318475Abstract: A flame and fume stopping device for a suction duct that removes gaseous mixtures from a room includes a normally-empty inverted siphon in the suction duct. A water tank is connected to the inverted siphon by a gravity discharge pipe, and holds a volume of water sufficient for flooding the inverted siphon. The water tank is at a level higher than the inverted siphon. The gravity discharge pipe includes a solenoid valve for discharging the water into the siphon. A sensor for determining the temperature of the gaseous mixture passing through the suction duct generates an electrical command signal that triggers the opening of the solenoid valve when a certain temperature threshold is exceeded.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 1999Date of Patent: November 20, 2001Assignee: STMicroelectronics S.r.l.Inventor: Giordano Seragnoli