Of Preventing Fire Patents (Class 169/45)
-
Publication number: 20080087445Abstract: The present invention relates to an inertization process for decreasing a risk of fire and for extinguishing fires in a protective room, wherein an oxygen concentration in the protective room is first lowered to a specific base inertization level, and wherein the oxygen concentration in the protective room is maintained at the base inertization level. In the event of a fire, additional inert gas is introduced based upon the extent of the fire in the protective room to further decrease from the base inertization level to a first lowered level. The oxygen concentration is maintained at the first lowered level for a first preset time interval, and further decreased from the first lowered level to a full inertization level, if the fire has not yet been extinguished once the first preset time interval has elapsed.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 11, 2007Publication date: April 17, 2008Inventor: Ernst-Werner Wagner
-
Patent number: 7341113Abstract: An embodiment of the invention includes an apparatus and a method for fire suppression including the utilization of an explosive composition layered between a fire suppressant panel such as, for example, a powder panel and another fixed structure such as, for example, a fuel tank dry bay wall. Upon impact or other means of detonation the explosive composition effects the rupture of a large number of frangible cells in the panel, dispersing the fire suppressant substance, thereby extinguishing or preventing fire.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2006Date of Patent: March 11, 2008Assignee: United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: Stephen Fallis, Joseph A. Manchor, Gary W Meyers
-
Patent number: 7337856Abstract: An apparatus, system and method for suppression of fires are provided. In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, a housing is provided with a first opening (or set of openings), a second opening (or set of openings) and a flow path defined between the first and second openings. A fire-suppressing gas is produced, such as from a solid propellant composition, and is introduced into the flow path in such a way that a volume of ambient air is drawn from a location external to the housing, through the first opening and into the flow path. The volume of ambient air may be subjected to an oxygen-reducing process and mixed with the fire-suppressing gas to form a gas mixture. The gas mixture is discharged from the flow path through the second opening and into an associated environment for suppression of a fire located therein.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2003Date of Patent: March 4, 2008Assignee: Alliant Techsystems Inc.Inventors: Gary K. Lund, James D. Rozanski
-
Patent number: 7331400Abstract: A surface coating includes fire retarding and smoke suppressing constituents dispersed throughout an essentially non-toxic, water-based adhesive binder. The coating comprises a mixture of chemical compounds where each constituent falls into one of six functional groups, being: 1) catalyst/initiator; 2) expandable graphite; 3) carbonific, or source of carbon which additionally forms water; 4) blowing agent (a source of non-flammable gases); 5) cement; and, 6) ceramic.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 2005Date of Patent: February 19, 2008Assignee: Avtec Industries, Inc.Inventor: John B. Rowen
-
Patent number: 7331401Abstract: Fire that has started in an enclosed space in an aircraft is smothered by closing or at least partly closing any air flow inlet and any air flow outlet of the enclosed space in response to a temperature rise caused by a fire in the enclosed space such as a toilet or crew quarters, galley cabinets, or the like. For this purpose fireproof, intumescent material is installed next to and along any apertures or openings in the enclosed space. When the temperature in the enclosed space exceeds the expansion temperature of the fireproof intumescent material the material expands into these apertures, thereby sealing or at least partly sealing these apertures, whereby air and thus oxygen access to the fire is reduced or even prevented, thereby smothering the fire. Preferably a guide surface guides the expanding intumescent material into the apertures or openings at least when the expansion starts.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2004Date of Patent: February 19, 2008Assignee: Airbus Deutschland GmbHInventor: Axel Bobenhausen
-
Publication number: 20080011492Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: November 23, 2004Publication date: January 17, 2008Inventor: Ernst-Werner Wagner
-
Patent number: 7299883Abstract: An apparatus for treating a fire in a multi-floored building, a method of treating fire in a multi-floored building, and a portable apparatus for assembly and subsequent treating of a fire in a multi-floored building are disclosed. The apparatus, method and system include a curvilinear tubular structure and a bracing system coupled to a source of a fluid pressure.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 2006Date of Patent: November 27, 2007Inventor: Michael Wielgat
-
Patent number: 7276640Abstract: Methods of reducing smoke levels in smoke-affected areas, reducing the level of toxic compounds produced by fires, fire suppression, and increasing flame retardancy. In particular, methods according to the present invention comprise dispersing nanocrystalline particles in the areas affected by smoke for sorption of smoke particulates and toxic compounds produced from a fire. The nanocrystalline particles are also effective for use in methods of fire suppression and flame retardancy.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2005Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: NanoScale CorporationInventors: Ravichandra S. Mulukutla, Paul S. Malchesky, Ronaldo Maghirang, John S. Klabunde, Kenneth J. Klabunde, Olga Koper
-
Patent number: 7247263Abstract: The invention is directed to a system which allows for the rapid application of a water immobilizing dispersion in sufficient quantities to increase the fire protective and wetting characteristics of water. This system also increases the evaporative cooling and quenching effects of water. The primary constituents of the composition of this system are water, purified Attapulgite clay, and an environmentally safe salt, e.g., magnesium sulfate.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2003Date of Patent: July 24, 2007Assignee: ITC Minerals & ChemicalsInventors: Dennis C. Parker, Anthony W. Carignano, David L. Ruff, Robert J. Purcell
-
Patent number: 7231808Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring the oxygen content in a closed target space, particularly for monitoring inertization levels in an inert gas device for fire prevention and/or fire extinguishing. Toward the aim of proposing a method for measuring the oxygen content in a target space with which an effective, certain, and representative determination of the oxygen concentration can be achieved for an optimally small expenditure in instrumentation and signal processing, the method provides that air samples are drawn from the target space and the oxygen concentration of the air samples is determined. An apparatus is equipped with a suction pipe system for sucking the air sample from the target space through various holes so that it can carry out the method.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2002Date of Patent: June 19, 2007Inventor: Ernst Wagner
-
Patent number: 7225882Abstract: A barrier for retarding fire comprises water-permeable fabric for covering a substantial area, the fabric having at least 9 pockets per square foot, each pocket having a volumetric capacity of between about 0.03 cubic inches and about 17 cubic inches, wherein substantially all of the pockets contain between about 0.01 and about 2 grams of superabsorbent polymer per cubic inch of volumetric capacity of the pockets.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2004Date of Patent: June 5, 2007Inventors: John C. Miller, Deborah L. Miller
-
Patent number: 7223351Abstract: Fire extinguishing mixtures, systems and methods are provided. The fire extinguishing mixtures can include one or more extinguishing compounds, such as, for example, one or more of fluorocarbons, fluoroethers, and fluorocarbons. The fire extinguishing mixtures can also include one or more of nitrogen, argon, helium and carbon dioxide. In an exemplary aspect the extinguishing mixture includes an extinguishing compound, a diluent gas and water.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2003Date of Patent: May 29, 2007Assignee: Great Lakes Chemical CorporationInventors: Vimal Sharma, W. Douglas Register, James Harris, Thomas F. Rowland, Mark Cisneros
-
Patent number: 7216722Abstract: Fire extinguishing mixtures, systems and methods are provided. The fire extinguishing mixtures can include one or more extinguishing compounds, such as, for example, one or more of fluorocarbons, fluoroethers, and fluorocarbons. The fire extinguishing mixtures can also include one or more of nitrogen, argon, helium and carbon dioxide. In an exemplary aspect the extinguishing mixture includes an extinguishing compound, a diluent gas and water.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2005Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Great Lakes Chemical CorporationInventors: Vimal Sharma, W. Douglas Register, James Harris, Thomas F. Rowland, Mark Cisneros
-
Patent number: 7210537Abstract: A forest fire is brought under control and extinguished through the use of ordnance to create a fire break. The fire break location is chosen along a front in the direction of travel of the fire. Ordnance is used to quickly knock down trees and other potential fuel for the fire. The fuel is then removed from the fire break. A back burn is optionally used to further create a fire break. The back burn is ignited using ordnance. Mop-up operations make use of ordnance to expose and disperse smoldering fuels by exploding hot spots.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2002Date of Patent: May 1, 2007Inventor: Steven D. McNeil
-
Patent number: 7210536Abstract: A highly efficient flame arrester adapted for use in preventing an external flame from backflashing upstream in a pipe, or a conduit, or a stream carrying a flammable substance. The flame arrester comprises a contained layer of nested ellipsoids formed from expanded metal sheets made from magnesium alloy foil. The arrester is useful in fuel tanks, combustion systems, sea-going tankers, hot water or space heaters, and the like.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2006Date of Patent: May 1, 2007Inventor: Shaikh Ghaleb Mohammad Yassin Alhamad
-
Patent number: 7207392Abstract: Methods are provided for a provision of hypoxic hypercapnic and hypoxic hypocapnic fire-extinguishing compositions for continuous use in human occupied environments. Breathable fire preventative atmospheres can be created using air separation and having increased or decreased carbon dioxide content.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2005Date of Patent: April 24, 2007Assignee: FirePass IP Holdings, Inc.Inventor: Igor K. Kotliar
-
Patent number: 7191845Abstract: A self-closing vent has its frame and honeycomb screen coated with an intumescent material. When affixed to an external wall or eave of a building, the vent is normally open, allowing free flow of air into and out of the building, but when exposed to the heat of a fire, such as a wildfire, the intumescent expands to close the vent, thereby preventing an external fire from entering the building.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2002Date of Patent: March 20, 2007Inventor: Ronald J Loar
-
Patent number: 7172709Abstract: A foam concentrate provides a fire-fighting composition when mixed with water so that the fire-fighting composition does not form a stable seal on cyclohexane and meets UL 162, Class B performance criteria for at least one of AFFF agents and fluoroprotein (FP) agents without requiring organic fluorine. The concentrate is formed from water and a high molecular weight acidic polymer (HMWAP) and a coordinating salt.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2005Date of Patent: February 6, 2007Assignee: Chemguard, Inc.Inventor: Kirtland P. Clark
-
Patent number: 7163642Abstract: The invention relates to compositions that prevent expansion of a fire, suppress existing fire, as well as methods of preparing and using such compositions. The composition is comprised of water, pseudo-plastic high yield suspending agent and starch. Compositions may contain additional functional agents, such as rheological, wetting, foaming, coloring, chelating, antimicrobial and stabilizing agents. In the description of the present invention, all composition modifications are referred to as compositions. The composition, an augmentation of water, exhibits the characteristics of a sag resistant aqueous gel in the tank, but has shear thinning capacity, allowing the composition to be pumped or sprayed as easily as water. At the point of impact, when the sprayed composition is again at rest, it instantly reverts to a sag resistant aqueous gel. The composition also forms an intumescent, surface char layer upon contacting a fire.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2005Date of Patent: January 16, 2007Inventors: James Alroy E. Hagquist, Robert M. Hume, III, Terrance L. Lund, Roderick I. Lund
-
Patent number: 7156184Abstract: The invention relates to an inert rendering method for preventing and/or extinguishing fires in enclosed spaces, wherein an oxygen-inhibiting gas is introduced into the target area in order to adjust a first basic level of inertion with a reduced oxygen content in comparison with natural conditions, and wherein an oxygen-inhibiting gas is further introduced in a gradual or sudden manner (in the case of a fire) into the target area in order to adjust one or more levels of inertion with a similarly reduced oxygen content. The invention also relates to a device for carrying out the method, comprising an oxygen-measuring device in the target area and a source of an oxygen-inhibiting gas. The aim of the invention is to provide an inert rendering method and device for carrying out said method enabling the storage of extinguishing gas needed to extinguish a fire in a simple, economical manner without having to resort to premises which are normally specially provided therefor.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2001Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Wagner Alarm—und Sicherungssysteme GmbHInventor: Ernst Werner Wagner
-
Patent number: 7152690Abstract: A highly efficient flame arrester adapted for use in preventing an external flame from backflashing upstream in a pipe, or a conduit, or a stream carrying a flammable substance. The flame arrester comprises a contained layer of nested ellipsoids formed from expanded metal sheets made from magnesium alloy foil. The arrester is useful in fuel tanks, combustion systems, sea-going tankers, hot water or space heaters, and the like.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2004Date of Patent: December 26, 2006Inventor: Shaikh Ghaleb Mohammad Yassin Alhamad
-
Patent number: 7140449Abstract: The invention employs a blower of the type used by commercial landscapers. The device has an engine mounted on a frame. Shoulder straps attached to the frame allow the user to wear the device on his back leaving the hands of the operator free to operate other tools such as a chain saw or perform other tasks. Also, wearing the device on the back makes it easier to transport the device over long distances to the source of the fire or backfire to be started. The device's blower generates a stream of air at high speeds. This stream of air can be used to feed a fire when the air is directed at a fire. When used to extinguish a fire, air from the blower is tapped from a point 180 degrees removed from the blower output and mixed with exhaust from the engine. This mixture is diverted through a Y-shaped valve into the airstream coming out of the blower. When the device is used to start backfires a fire is started.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2000Date of Patent: November 28, 2006Inventor: Edwin D. Ebner
-
Patent number: 7135125Abstract: A foam concentrate or fire fighting composition for extinguishing and/or retarding fires is provided that meets UL162, Class B performance criteria for at least one of AFFF agents, AR-AFFF agents and fluoroprotein (FP) agents. The concentrate is used to form the fire fighting composition when mixed with water. The concentrate or fire fighting composition includes a high molecular weight fluoropolymer and water and may have a fluorine content wherein less than about 0.008% fluorine by weight of the fire fighting composition is provided from any fluorochemical surfactant. Further, the composition may meet the UL162, Class B performance criteria without forming a stable seal on cyclohexane.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2005Date of Patent: November 14, 2006Assignee: Chemguard IncorporatedInventor: Kirtland P. Clark
-
Patent number: 7104334Abstract: A deployable automatic foam fire suppressant system comprising a pump module having at least one pump coupled to a foam material source, the at least one pump comprising a pump suction component for the supply of water, and a supply module configured for coupling to the pump module, the supply module including at least one supply means having fluid conduit and at least one foam applicator. fluidly coupled to the pump module, wherein the pump module and the supply module are deployable and configured to be operated from a remote location.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2004Date of Patent: September 12, 2006Assignee: Foaming Protection, Inc.Inventor: Paul Thompson
-
Patent number: 7083742Abstract: A new set of effective, environmentally safe, nonflammable, low-toxicity refrigerants, solvents, foam blowing agents, propellants, and firefighting agents is disclosed. The agents are clean, electrically nonconductive, and have short atmospheric lifetimes, zero ozone-depletion potential, and low global warming potentials. The agents comprise at least one fluoroiodocarbon agent satisfying the general formula CaHbBrcCldFeIfNgOh, wherein a is between and including 1 and 8; b is between and including 0 and 2; c, d, g, and h are each between and including 0 and 1; e is between and including 1 and 18; and f is between and including 1 and 2, either neat or mixed with additives selected from the group consisting of: alcohols, esters, ethers, fluoroethers, hydrocarbons, hydrofluorocarbons, and perfluorocarbons.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 1994Date of Patent: August 1, 2006Assignee: JSN Family Limited Partnership #3Inventors: Jonathan Shelley Nimitz, Lance Harrell Lankford
-
Patent number: 7080694Abstract: A test system (10) for testing a fire suppression system (100) for a determination of a flow ratio of at least two different constituents (2, 4) where the fire suppression system (100) is of a type that mixes the flow of the at least two constituents (2, 4) for distribution whereby only one of the two constituents (2, 4), is required for testing of the flow ratio, the system (10) comprising a control box (14), a first constituent flow meter system (16) and a second constituent line flow meter system (18), wherein the first constituent (2) is directed through the first constituent flow meter system (16), the first constituent (2) is directed through the second constituent line flow meter system (18), each flow meter system (16, 18) detecting a flow rate therein, and the control box (14) compares the flow rates of the first constituent (2) through each flow meter system (16, 18), and indicates the flow rate ratio had the second constituent (4) been directed through the second constituent line flow meter systemType: GrantFiled: November 20, 2001Date of Patent: July 25, 2006Inventor: Thomas Joseph Boyle
-
Patent number: 7033526Abstract: A composition which retards the spread of fire, protects assets at risk from fire damage and emits a material which aids in extinguishing the fire. The composition may be either in the form of a gel or a foam and may be used to protect any sort of object, such as personal property, real property or even humans, from fire. The gel form of the composition contains urea or a urea derivative that retains water and releases CO2 upon heating. In addition, a rheology modifier containing carboxyl groups is also employed. The foam form of the composition contains the urea or urea derivative and the rheology modifier, along with a foam generator such as sodium bicarbonate and citric acid. A method of retarding fire comprises the coating of an item with the fire retardant such that the retardant protects the item from the fire and aids in extinguishing the fire by releasing carbon dioxide.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2004Date of Patent: April 25, 2006Assignee: National Starch and Chemical Investment Holding CorporationInventors: Edmund W. Figiel, Robert E. Byrne, John E. Orloff, David R. Nass
-
Patent number: 6997267Abstract: A system for placement in a ceiling of a room to provide a fluid to the room. A method for protecting a room from fire. The method comprises the steps of placing a primary profile in a ceiling of the room. A system for placement in a ceiling of a room to provide air to the room. A method for providing air to a room. A system for placement in a ceiling of a room to provide sound to the room. A method for providing sound to a room. A system for placement in a ceiling of a room to provide information to the room. A method for providing information to a room.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2002Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Inventor: Irwin Kotovsky
-
Patent number: 6978845Abstract: In a flame barrier arrangement (1), having at least two flame barrier elements (2) which are arranged one behind the other in the direction of flow of a combustible gas and have a multiplicity of gaps for extinguishing a flame impinging on the surface of a flame filter element (2), and having at least one spacer element (5) between flame fattier elements (2), in order to produce a space between adjacent flame barrier elements (2) one spacer element (5) is securely joined, at least at certain points, to the surface of an associated flame barrier element (2).Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2002Date of Patent: December 27, 2005Assignee: Leinemann GmbH & Co.Inventor: Christoph Leinemann
-
Patent number: 6974785Abstract: The outer shell fabric according to the invention is made of a textile material which is a double-weave woven fabric or a warp-knit knitted fabric constructed in such a manner that preferably a majority of one yarn type is placed on the face of the fabric and the majority of a different yarn type is placed on the back surface. One of the yarns may consist of multi-filamentary meta-aramid fiber (e.g. Nomex), the other of either a multi-filamentary or a spun (staple) para-aramid fiber (e.g. Kevlar). The textile material can be visualized as two separate fabrics being interlaced together by the sharing of yarns between them. When used as part of a firefighter or work garment for protection against heat and flame, the outer shell fabric has superior tear resistance, abrasion resistance, UV resistance, and thermal protective performance when compared to other outer shell fabrics used for the same application.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2000Date of Patent: December 13, 2005Assignee: Bacou-Dailoz Protective ApparelInventors: Claude Barbeau, Ross Cochran
-
Patent number: 6929674Abstract: A cover gas composition for protecting molten magnesium/magnesium alloy includes a fluorine containing inhibiting agent and a carrier gas. Each component of the composition has a Global Warming Potential (GWP) (referenced to the absolute GWP for carbon dioxide at a time horizon of 100 years) of less than 5000.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2000Date of Patent: August 16, 2005Assignee: Cast Centre Pty LtdInventors: Nigel Jeffrie Ricketts, Malcolm Timothy Frost, Simon Paul Cashion, Craig John Korn, Phillip Wilmott Baker
-
Patent number: 6918447Abstract: A fire protection apparatus includes a plurality of bladders that are substantially filled with a non-flammable liquid via a manifold that is coupled to a source of non-flammable liquid and includes one or more nozzles that discharge the non-flammable liquid into each of the plurality of bladders. In one specific embodiment, the apparatus is initially in a substantially collapsed state at or near a ceiling. When fire or smoke is detected, the non-flammable liquid flows into the manifold. As the plurality of bladders begin to fill with non-flammable liquid, the weight of the filling bladders causes the fire protection apparatus to deploy, spanning from ceiling to floor. The bladders may include one or more discharge orifices that allow the non-flammable liquid to flow out of the bladder and down the exterior of the bladder once the bladder is filled to the level of its discharge orifices.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2003Date of Patent: July 19, 2005Inventor: Edward L. Robinson, Jr.
-
Patent number: 6849194Abstract: Highly fluorinated, saturated, and unsaturated fluoroethers are efficient, economical, non-ozone-depleting fire extinguishing agents used alone or in blends with other fire extinguishing agents in total flooding and portable systems. Methods for producing ethers, halogenated ether intermediates, and fluoroethers are disclosed. Novel fluoroether compositions are disclosed. Fluoroether extinguishing mixtures, methods, and systems are disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2003Date of Patent: February 1, 2005Assignee: PCBU Services, Inc.Inventors: Mark Robin, Thomas F. Rowland, John Chien, Janet Boggs, Mitchel Cohn, Vicki Hedrick, Stephan Brandstadter
-
Publication number: 20040226725Abstract: A system for protecting individuals and property exposed to potential ignition and fires resulting from the release of high-oxygen concentration gas blends from oxygen systems used for breathing assistance. Said system comprises an oxygen storage container and delivery mechanism, said container filled with a blend of above-atmospheric oxygen and inert gases of appropriate composition and capacity to prevent the onset of ignition and fire when discharged and encountering ignition sources and combustibles, yet suitable for breathing by recipients and users of the system. Alternative embodiments can comprise covers over said oxygen containers, filled with materials suitable to prevent the ignition of combustibles encountering the high-oxygen blends from said oxygen containers, when both the blends and materials are dually discharged due to rupture of their respective containers after experiencing an impact.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 1, 2004Publication date: November 18, 2004Inventor: Joseph Michael Bennett
-
Patent number: 6797508Abstract: The invention relates to bioreactor for fermenting solid substrates, comprising a fermentation vessel (2), a device for feeding bioreactive substances and a nozzle arrangement in the fermentation vessel (2). The invention is characterized in that a nozzle arrangement (10, 20) consisting of a plurality of pipes (14, 24) which project into the reaction chamber (49) of the fermentation vessel (2) in parallel and which are provided with nozzles (16, 28) is situated in the fermentation vessel (2). The invention also relates to a method for aerobically fermenting solids. A reaction medium containing these solids is mixed using a compressed gas (48) which is guided into the reaction mixture from above.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2002Date of Patent: September 28, 2004Assignee: Hofer Bioreact GmbHInventor: Udo Hölker
-
Publication number: 20040159448Abstract: A fire protection apparatus includes a plurality of bladders that are substantially filled with a non-flammable liquid via a manifold that is coupled to a source of non-flammable liquid and includes one or more nozzles that discharge the non-flammable liquid into each of the plurality of bladders. In one specific embodiment, the apparatus is initially in a substantially collapsed state at or near a ceiling. When fire or smoke is detected, the non-flammable liquid flows into the manifold. As the plurality of bladders begin to fill with non-flammable liquid, the weight of the filling bladders causes the fire protection apparatus to deploy, spanning from ceiling to floor. The bladders may include one or more discharge orifices that allow the non-flammable liquid to flow out of the bladder and down the exterior of the bladder once the bladder is filled to the level of its discharge orifices.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 31, 2003Publication date: August 19, 2004Inventor: Edward L. Robinson
-
Patent number: 6776920Abstract: A gel is produced by magnetically treating and mixing two solutions and in one embodiment subsequently introducing carbon dioxide gas. The first solution is comprised of water and sodium bicarbonate, and the second solution is comprised of water and sodium silicate. The first solution is passed through a positively charged magnetic field, and the second solution is passed through a negatively charged magnetic field. The two solutions are then mixed together to form a gel. The resulting gel has excellent fire-fighting capabilities because of its high heat absorption and emissive qualities. The gel can also be used to aid in the removal of surface coatings.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2001Date of Patent: August 17, 2004Inventor: William C. Reed
-
Publication number: 20040124403Abstract: The invention is directed to a system which allows for the rapid application of a water immobilizing dispersion in sufficient quantities to increase the fire protective and wetting characteristics of water. This system also increases the evaporative cooling and quenching effects of water. The primary constituents of the composition of this system are water, purified Attapulgite clay, and an environmentally safe salt, e.g., magnesium sulfate.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 29, 2003Publication date: July 1, 2004Applicant: ITC MINERALS & CHEMICALSInventors: Dennis C. Parker, Anthony W. Carignano, David L. Ruff, Robert J. Purcell
-
Patent number: 6739399Abstract: Inerting method and apparatus reduce the risk of and extinguish fires in an enclosed space. The method provides that the oxygen content in the space is reduced to a set base inerting level and, in the event of a fire, is quickly further reduced to a complete inerting level. For carrying out the method, the apparatus includes an oxygen measuring device for the enclosed space, with a first system for producing the oxygen-expulsion gas or for extracting oxygen from the enclosed space, with a second system for rapidly feeding an oxygen-expulsion gas into the space being monitored, and with a fire detection device for detecting a fire characteristic in the enclosed space. A control unit sends a base inerting signal to the first system in accordance with the oxygen content in the enclosed space, and sends a complete inerting signal to the second system in accordance with a detection signal from the fire detection device.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 2003Date of Patent: May 25, 2004Inventors: Ernst Werner Wagner, Volker Schütte
-
Patent number: 6702032Abstract: Ground fires are contained by an apparatus such as a brush cutter that creates a fuelbreak. The brush cutter (10) includes a rearwardly positioned tractor (11) and a forwardly positioned cutter assembly (12) for cutting fuelbreaks through brush. The brush cutter renders cut brush into smaller pieces that lay substantially on the ground after cutting and that smolder when ignited while lying on the ground. Outboard rectilinear cutting blades (49 and 51) rotate in their forward arcs toward each other so as to urge the cut brush inwardly toward the adjacent blades for re-cutting. The leading skirt (31) of the cutter deck (30) engages and bends the taller brush in the direction of movement of the brush cutter before the lower portions of the brush are cut, thereby inducing the brush to fall in the path of the brush cutter, so that it is overrun by the brush cutter and chopped. The chopped brush is disposed along the path of cut brush, thereby providing a pathway through the uncut vegetation.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2000Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Inventor: Robert M. Torras, Sr.
-
Patent number: 6698522Abstract: A highly efficient flame arrester adapted for use in preventing an external flame from backflashing upstream in a pipe, or a conduit, or a stream carrying a flammable substance. The flame arrester comprises a contained layer of nested ellipsoids formed from expanded metal sheets made from magnesium alloy foil. The arrester is useful in fuel tanks, combustion systems, sea-going tankers, hot water or space heaters, and the like.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2002Date of Patent: March 2, 2004Inventor: Shaikh Ghaleb Mohammad Yassin Alhamad
-
Patent number: 6699563Abstract: An expandable metal product for use in extinguishing fires and in the prevention of or protection against explosions. The product is a continuous sheet of magnesium alloy foil having discontinuous slits in spaced apart lines parallel to each other but transverse to the longitudinal dimension of the sheet. The invention is also directed to the expanded form of the product, either in sheets which may be used for preventing fires or explosion or in the form of shaped ellipsoids for use in a passive inerting system for fuel tanks.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2002Date of Patent: March 2, 2004Inventor: Shaikh Ghaleb Mohammad Yassin Alhamad
-
Patent number: 6681863Abstract: A method and device for preventing distribution of fire gases in a ventilating system that serves a number of fire compartments (15, 16), the ventilating air, during normal operating conditions, having a certain predetermined direction of flow at the inlet side and the outlet side of the fire compartments (15, 16). It is significant that when a predetermined lowest pressure drop is registered, for the ventilating air in the direction of flow, over a measuring spot at the inlet side or the outlet side, a blocking is effected of the flowing area of the ventilating air past the measuring spot.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2001Date of Patent: January 27, 2004Assignee: Polmannen ABInventor: Anders Odelros
-
Patent number: 6672397Abstract: The present invention features a portable, modular on-site breathable fire control system which can make an unlimited amount of cooled, oxygen-depleted air that can still be consumed by humans while extinguishing fire and reducing smoke. This system may be incorporated into an already existing heating and A/C unit for enhanced fire safety in a home or building. The system may also be used as a mobile unit attached to a fire safety vehicle wherein a transmission conduit transfers the processed air directly to the area on fire. Additionally, a fire-resistant tarp-like structure of sufficient size may be used to enclose a burning structure while the process air is transmitted thereto via a transmission conduit.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2002Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Inventor: Timothy Nathaniel Taylor
-
Publication number: 20040000409Abstract: A method for containing forest fires involves cutting a swath of trees and shrubs surrounding the fire area with use of an aerial saw carried by a helicopter. The swath of cut trees and shrubs is then watered down or covered by flame retardants. The aerial saw is preferably a rotary bladed one suspended horizontally from the helicopter.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 26, 2002Publication date: January 1, 2004Inventor: Eugene A. Abbott
-
Publication number: 20030226669Abstract: The invention relates to an inert rendering method for preventing and/or extinguishing fires in enclosed spaces, wherein an oxygen-inhibiting gas is introduced into the target area in order to adjust a first basic level of inertion with a reduced oxygen content in comparison with natural conditions, and wherein an oxygen-inhibiting gas is further introduced in a gradual or sudden manner (in the case of a fire) into the target area in order to adjust one or more levels of inertion with a similarly reduced oxygen content. The invention also relates to a device for carrying out the method, comprising an oxygen-measuring device in the target area and a source of an oxygen-inhibiting gas. The aim of the invention is to provide an inert rendering method and device for carrying out said method enabling the storage of extinguishing gas needed to extinguish a fire in a simple, economical manner without having to resort to premises which are normally specially provided therefor.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 23, 2002Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventor: Ernst Werner Wagner
-
Patent number: 6624096Abstract: The present invention is directed to a textile fabric. This fabric is particularly well suited for use as the outer shell fabric of a firefighter's garment. The fabric is a woven fabric of spun yarns and multi-filament yarns. The spun yarn includes a first staple being a polymer selected from the group consisting of PBI or PBO or melamine formaldehyde, and a second staple being an aramid polymer. The multi-filament yarn includes an aramid filament.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2001Date of Patent: September 23, 2003Assignee: CNA Holdings, Inc.Inventors: Charles A. Thomas, Clifton A. Perry, Richard O. Tucker
-
Patent number: 6607038Abstract: Method and apparatus are presented for instrumentation of a firefighter's vari-nozzle for motion tracking and measurement of pattern selector and bail handle positions. In the embodiment presented here, brackets and associated hardware attach (1) a position tracking device to the nozzle to measure its 6-DOF (Degrees of Freedom) position and orientation, and (2) potentiometers to measure the angular positions of the two main, moving components (the bail handle and the pattern selector) of the nozzle. The mounts are attached to the brass nozzle with holes drilled into the main body of the nozzle. One application of this instrumentation is control of an augmented reality or virtual reality water stream, or other extinguishing agent. The electronic signals from potentiometers in the instrumentation permit a computer to calculate and display graphical representations of water flow from the nozzle for virtual reality and augmented reality applications.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2001Date of Patent: August 19, 2003Assignee: Information Decision Technologies, LLCInventors: John Franklin Ebersole, Jr., Todd Joseph Furlong
-
Publication number: 20030150624Abstract: The invention relates to a nozzle for foaming, spraying or misting in particular liquid, first media by means of at least one pressurized, second, in particular gaseous or gas-containing, medium, an outlet for the foam produced being arranged on the nozzle and the nozzle (1) comprising a housing (4) in which at least one radially, obliquely, tangentially, obliquely tangentially or perpendicularly tangentially inwardly directed duct (5, 5′) for feeding the second medium and a first inlet (6) for feeding the media to be foamed are provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 5, 2003Publication date: August 14, 2003Inventor: Manfred Rummel
-
Patent number: 6571882Abstract: A fire fighting unit to be installed and transported on a relatively small vehicle, comprising, in combination, frame structure sized for installation on a vehicle; fluid supply apparatus carried on the frame structure; and including a water supply tank, a fire fighting foam tank, a compressed gas source, fluid delivery lines from the tanks, and controls including pumps carried on the frame structure, for controlling fluid delivery via the lines, and in mixed condition to at least one fluid delivery nozzle.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2001Date of Patent: June 3, 2003Inventor: Ping-Li Yen