Condition Responsive Control Patents (Class 169/56)
  • Patent number: 8378834
    Abstract: A kitchen exhaust hood assembly having a fire suppression system with built-in redundancy and monitoring capabilities is presented. The fire suppression system includes one or more fire suppression devices associated with the kitchen hood for extinguishing a fire within the vicinity of the exhaust hood. The fire suppression devices can be triggered by a series of manual actuators or fire sensors. A switching circuit including a plurality of switches operatively connected to the manual actuators or fire sensors triggers the fire suppression devices by enabling either a first or second actuating circuit. The switching circuit and first and second actuating circuits are configured such that a break in the electrical connection between the switches and actuating circuits does not cause a failure in the operation of the fire suppression system. A supervision module is included in the assembly for monitoring the elements of the fire suppression system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Captive-Aire Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: William E. Glaub, William Brian Griffin
  • Patent number: 8360163
    Abstract: Fire-extinguishing system in an air filter system has an inlet chamber and an outlet chamber with a filter wall therebetween. The system includes a first and second sensor, a first and second fire extinguisher, and a control unit, the first sensor and the first extinguisher being disposed in the inlet chamber, the second extinguisher in an outlet chamber and the second sensor being disposed in an outlet of the outlet chamber. The control unit is connected to the first and second sensors, and to the first and second extinguishers. The control unit records a first and second fire-detection signal in the inlet chamber and the outlet, respectively; compares the first and second signals to an associated threshold value for fire; determines at which location within the inlet and outlet chamber the fire is burning, depending on the comparison; selects which of the first and at least one second extinguisher is located near the determined position, and activates one or more selected extinguishers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Inventor: Antonius Theodorus Cecilianus Hauzer
  • Publication number: 20130019747
    Abstract: The present invention provides an air cleansing system that removes the polluted air and controls the air temperature. This system may be optionally integrated with other systems including security, surveillance, smoke alarms and the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2011
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Inventor: Stuart Martin Innes
  • Patent number: 8353357
    Abstract: A heat responsive trigger assembly for a fire protection sprinkler may include a first plate having a bottom face; a second plate including a top face engaging the bottom face; a thermally conductive member disposed between the top and bottom faces and extending beyond a perimeter of at least one of the first and second plates; and a heat fusible material securing the first and second plates in an engaged position. The first and second plates may disengage in response to the heat fusible material reaching a predetermined temperature, thereby allowing a fire suppressant to discharge from the sprinkler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: The Viking Corporation
    Inventor: Andrew T. Thompson
  • Patent number: 8336637
    Abstract: A fire extinguishing system for a floating or fixed roof hydrocarbon or petro chemical storage tank includes an above-ground storage tank having a cylindrically shaped upwardly extending annular wall and a floating or fixed roof on top of the storage tank. The tank also includes a sensor for detecting fire or smoke in the above-ground storage tank and a mass of fire extinguishing materials and a dispenser for dispensing the fire extinguishing materials inwardly across the top of the storage tank upon sensing a fire within the tank. Further, a sub-terrian tank having a capacity greater than the capacity of the above-ground storage tank is disposed below the above-ground storage tank and is connected to the above-ground storage tank so that the hydrocarbon or petro chemical liquid from the bottom of the above-ground storage tank can be almost immediately emptied into the sub-terrain storage tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Inventor: Abdulreidha Abdulrasoul Alsaffar
  • Publication number: 20120318537
    Abstract: Various concepts are provided for suppressing a fire condition in an aircraft. In one embodiment, the presence of a fire condition in an aircraft is detected. After such a detection, extinguishing agents can be dispensed and/or certain areas of the aircraft can be depressurized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2012
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Applicant: UNITED PARCEL SERVICE OF AMERICA, INC.
    Inventor: John H. Ransom, JR.
  • Publication number: 20120318921
    Abstract: The invention provides a fire protection system, in particular in the field of aviation and aerospace, comprising a compartment which is at least partly lined with fire-retardant material, a detection means which can detect a fire in the compartment, and a fire suppression means which is configured to introduce an inert gas into the compartment when the detection means detects a fire in the compartment, to thus reduce the oxygen content in the compartment and to thereby suppress the fire.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2012
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Applicant: AIRBUS OPERATIONS GMBH
    Inventors: PAUL ROHRBACH, RAINER BEUERMANN, ROBERT HÜBNER
  • Publication number: 20120305273
    Abstract: A control system for a fire fighting component includes a detector for detecting a position of at least a portion of a fire fighting component relative to an axis, which generates an output position signal indicative of the position of the at least a portion of the fire fighting component, and a controller in communication with the detector and receiving the output position signal. The controller generates a display output signal based on the output position signal. The system further includes a display that is in communication with the controller and receives the display output signal. The display generates an icon that is a graphical representation of the fire fighting device, and configures the icon based on the output display signal wherein the configuration of the icon indicates the position of the at least a portion of the fire fighting device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2012
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Applicant: ELKHART BRASS MANUFACTURING COMPANY, INC.
    Inventor: Todd Brian Lozier
  • Publication number: 20120285710
    Abstract: [Problem to be Solved] A low-cost simple extinguishing device, which is installed in small space such as the interior of a board and carries out fire detection and extinguishment, is provided. [Solution] A disaster-preventing device 10 is provided with: a battery that supplies a power source; a fire detecting unit 12 that detects fire; and an aerosol generating unit 14 that generates and discharges, to outside, aerosol for extinguishment by combustion of a solid extinguishing agent when the fire detecting unit 12 detects the fire. The fire detecting unit 12 outputs fire warning by sound and display when the fire is detected. The disaster-preventing device 10 can be installed at an arbitrary position in the interior of the board by a magnet sheet 32.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2012
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Inventors: Hiroshi Umehara, Yuji Sugie
  • Patent number: 8297370
    Abstract: A releasing control panel (RCP) for use with residential fire protection systems and methods. The RCP provides a primary communication between a liquid supply source and a network of pipes and sprinklers using a series of three control valves. The RCP also encloses a pressure source providing pressurized gas to an auxiliary line that is isolated from the pipe network and sprinklers, with pressurized gas being provided in response to a pressure in the isolated auxiliary line. The RCP also encloses a secondary communication between the series of the control valves and a drain without the use of a bypass system for the primary communication. The RCP further encloses a power supply and a controller that communications with a fire detector disposed in a dwelling at a defined spacing to a sprinkler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Tyco Fire Products LP
    Inventors: Roger S. Wilkins, James E. Golinveaux, Mark E. Fessenden
  • Publication number: 20120234563
    Abstract: In-computer fire suppression, the computer comprising an in-computer flame detector and an in-computer fire extinguisher including detecting, by an in-computer flame detector, a flame, releasing, by the in-computer fire extinguisher, an extinguishing agent in response to the flame detector detecting the flame; and disabling the power supply to the computer having within it the in-computer flame detector and the in-computer fire extinguisher.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2012
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Matthew R. Archibald, Jerrod K. Buterbaugh
  • Patent number: 8245790
    Abstract: A control system for a fire fighting component includes a detector for detecting a position of at least a portion of a fire fighting component relative to an axis, which generates an output position signal indicative of the position of the at least a portion of the fire fighting component, and a controller in communication with the detector and receiving the output position signal. The controller generates a display output signal based on the output position signal. The system further includes a display that is in communication with the controller and receives the display output signal. The display generates an icon that is a graphical representation of the fire fighting device, and configures the icon based on the output display signal wherein the configuration of the icon indicates the position of the at least a portion of the fire fighting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Elkhart Brass Manufacturing Corporation, Inc.
    Inventor: Todd Brian Lozier
  • Publication number: 20120193110
    Abstract: The invention relates to equipment including fixed fire detectors (10) along the track (100) and fixed extinguishing stations (20) installed in the tunnel. Each station is provided with fire detectors (23) for locating the source, an automatic configuration system for targeting the area to be sprayed, individually controlled spraying devices (22), and a device for remotely or locally activating the spray. The station is preceded by a train stopping area (ZA) in which the train (TRO) starts a stopping sequence and slows down from the safety speed thereof to the zero speed thereof. A control center (30) manages the operation of the equipment and in particular orders a reduction of the train (TRO) running speed when the detectors (10) have detected a fire (flames, smoke, CO), The reduced speed (safety speed (Vs)) enables the train (TRO) to run as quickly as possible while mitigating the progression of the fire.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2010
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Inventors: Bruno Bouthors, Pascal Hochart, François Levert, Christian Maquaire, Vincent Massy, Serge Poncet
  • Patent number: 8230939
    Abstract: An improved fire protection system that is of fail safe design for kitchen stoves with or without a range hood and other applications utilizing electrical power for generating heat and in which a fire condition such as a skillet of grease becomes ignited. Said system is activated thermally to release a quantity of fire suppressant material while simultaneously cutting off the electrical power. The system utilizes a reservoir containing the fire suppressant under pressure with a hose or pipe connected to one or a plurality of thermally activated nozzles. A second hose or pipe is connected to a pneumatically operated electrical interruption device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Inventor: Joe Dale Reynolds
  • Patent number: 8230938
    Abstract: A fire prevention assembly comprises a main body, a first connective unit, a tubular piece, a sensor unit, a second connective unit, a first flexible piece, a movable piece and a second flexible piece. The fire prevention assembly is installed to a fire prevention gate. In use, the sensor unit would melt at a high temperature. In such case, the tubular piece moves rearwards along with the movable piece. Therefore, the movable piece will no longer limit the movement of the position limiting plate of the fire prevention gate and the protective plates will be allowed to rotate to open or close the fire prevention gate. Consequently, the fire prevention assembly can provide protection against fires and smoke in a swift and precise manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: Uangyih-Tech Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chun-Chien Huang
  • Publication number: 20120090860
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a measure for minimizing an undesired passage of fluid from a first sector (1) to a second sector (2) separated by a non-fluid-tight separation (3), wherein a first pressure (P1-1) prevails in the first sector (1) and a lower second pressure (P2-1) than the first pressure (P1-1) prevails in the second sector (2). An intermediate chamber (4) which separates the two sectors (1, 2) from one another is arranged at the separation (3). A conveyor mechanism (5) is further provided which is designed to convey fluid from the intermediate chamber (4) to the first sector (1) in order to generate a lower pressure in the intermediate chamber (4) than the first pressure (P1-1) prevailing in the first sector (1), wherein the pressure (P4-1) generated in the intermediate chamber (4) is just as high or higher than the second pressure (P2-1) prevailing in the second sector (2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2009
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Applicant: AMRONA AG
    Inventor: Michael Kind
  • Patent number: 8127860
    Abstract: A method of designing a residential fire protection system in a residential dwelling unit are shown and described. The residential dwelling unit has a plurality of compartments as defined in the 2002 National Fire Protection Association Standards 13, 13D, 13R. The method can be achieved by: determining a minimum quantity and location of residential fire sprinklers required to determine a hydraulic demand calculation of the residential fire sprinklers of a piping network filled with water and arranged to protect the plurality of compartments; and specifying the minimum quantity and location of residential fire sprinklers in a piping network filled with a gas. Various aspects of the invention are also shown and described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Tyco Fire Products LP
    Inventor: James E. Golinveaux
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20110297402
    Abstract: Fire-suppressing ceiling panels compatible with standard ceiling materials like gypsum drywall and drop-in suspended ceiling panels, which provide improved structural integrity and ease of installation while providing for long-term isolation of fire suppression agents from moisture. Various embodiments are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2011
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Inventors: Cesar Belmonte, Eduardo Talbert
  • Publication number: 20110278027
    Abstract: In-computer fire suppression, the computer comprising an in-computer flame detector and an in-computer fire extinguisher including detecting, by an in-computer flame detector, a flame, releasing, by the in-computer fire extinguisher, an extinguishing agent in response to the flame detector detecting the flame; and disabling the power supply to the computer having within it the in-computer flame detector and the in-computer fire extinguisher.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2010
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Matthew R. Archibald, Jerrod K. Buterbaugh
  • Publication number: 20110203814
    Abstract: A sprinkler according to the present disclosure has a movable deflector that is spaced apart from its supporting pins by a carrier member. The spacing apart of the deflector from the pins may allow for the distribution pattern of the fire suppressant to be of a higher quality and reduce and/or minimize the possibility of voids or discontinuities in the distribution pattern.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2010
    Publication date: August 25, 2011
    Applicant: THE VIKING CORPORATION
    Inventor: Andrew T. Thompson
  • Patent number: 7963343
    Abstract: A Christmas tree fire prevention device preferably includes an air-pressurized reservoir containing fire-retardant agent and a mechanism for automatically discharging the fire-retardant agent. The discharging mechanism may be connected to the reservoir via a flexible hose may also be removably attached to the apex of an existing Christmas tree and camouflaged as a holiday decoration. A mechanism for automatically emitting an alarm signal when the automatic fire-retardant agent discharging mechanism is activated may further be included. The discharging mechanism may include a valve with a metal-alloy plug which has a relatively low melting point. Flame heated air preferably causes the plug to melt and activates the discharging mechanism, which ejects the plug from the valve. The pressurized fire-retardant may then egress through the valve, deflect off a guard located on top of the discharging mechanism, and cover the Christmas tree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Inventor: James Hopkins
  • Publication number: 20110120735
    Abstract: A fire prevention assembly comprises a main body, a first connective unit, a tubular piece, a sensor unit, a second connective unit, a first flexible piece, a movable piece and a second flexible piece. The fire prevention assembly is installed to a fire prevention gate. In use, the sensor unit would melt at a high temperature. In such case, the tubular piece moves rearwards along with the movable piece. Therefore, the movable piece will no longer limit the movement of the position limiting plate of the fire prevention gate and the protective plates will be allowed to rotate to open or close the fire prevention gate. Consequently, the fire prevention assembly can provide protection against fires and smoke in a swift and precise manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2009
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Applicant: UANGYIH-TECH INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Chun-Chien Huang
  • Publication number: 20110083864
    Abstract: A fire detection system includes a detection tube and a sensing device. The detection tube contains a sensing fluid having a first physical condition and a second physical condition. The sensing fluid is in the first physical condition below a temperature threshold, and is in the second physical condition above the temperature threshold. The sensing fluid is at least partially liquid in the first physical condition. The sensing device is movable to open in response to a transition of a portion of the sensing fluid from the first physical condition to the second physical condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2010
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Inventors: Paul D. Smith, Robert G. Dunster, Paul Rennie, Beth A. Jones
  • 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
  • Patent number: 7896093
    Abstract: An apparatus to suppress a localized fire may include a pressurized tank of fire suppressant and a valve coupled to the tank. In case of a fire, a pneumatic fire sensor may open the valve to release the fire suppressant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Inventor: Greg Chavez
  • Patent number: 7878258
    Abstract: The invention relates to a fire protection installation (30) comprising a mist sprayer system with at least one nozzle (5, 10) through which extinguishing medium in the form of liquid is arranged to be sprayed out at high pressure, so that a mist is created for achieving fire extinguishing by means of cooling of combustion gases and the seat of the fire. The distinguishing characteristics are that the fire protection installation is portable and has a modular construction comprising a basic system (31) and a number of customized additional systems, which additional systems comprise different additional units that are adapted to a particular function profile that is set in the actual fire protection installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Inventors: Torbjörn Lindström, Björn Lundblad
  • 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: 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
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20100243283
    Abstract: A fire protection sprinkler is provided with a skipping shield having air flow passages therethrough to reduce the negative impact that the shield has on the thermal response of the sprinkler. By providing holes, slots, louvers, or mesh to the skipping shield, water from adjacent flowing sprinklers can still be blocked from impinging on the thermal element. The shield will block water but allow hot gas from the fire to flow through the shield thereby improving the response time of the thermal element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2009
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Applicant: THE VIKING CORPORATION
    Inventors: Brian S. Green, Lindsay M. Barker
  • Publication number: 20100212920
    Abstract: A method and system are provided for suppressing a fire inside a defined volume within a structure. To suppress a fire, the defined volume is flooded with a flow of inert gas into which a limited amount of water is introduced into the flow of inert gas; the flow of inert gas and the limited amount of water introduced therein being sufficient to establish a fire extinguishing atmosphere within the defined volume having a volumetric oxygen concentration of at least about 14%. A cartridge for storing a limited amount of water has a water outlet in flow communication with a spray nozzle that is in flow communication with a supply of pressurized inert gas. The water storage cartridge has a gas inlet in flow communication with a supply of pressurized inert gas for pressurizing the water storage cartridge to cause water to flow therefrom to the spray nozzle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2007
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Applicant: UTC Fire & Security
    Inventors: Muhidin A. Lelic, Giuliano Amantini, May L. Corn, Robert G. Dunster, Yehia F. Khalil, Robert J. Lade, Ravi K. Madabhushi, Marios C. Soteriou, Seth Sienkiewicz
  • Publication number: 20100170685
    Abstract: A sprinkler assembly includes a body, a support, which extends from the body, and a closure device that releasably closes the discharge opening of the body. The sprinkler assembly further includes a trigger that releasably holds the closure device at the discharge opening. The support is adapted to allow the fluid flowing from the discharge opening, when the closure device is released, to pass through the support substantially unimpeded by the support and, further, is adapted to reshape the flow of fluid as it flows through the support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2010
    Publication date: July 8, 2010
    Applicant: THE VIKING CORPORATION
    Inventors: Scott T. Franson, Thomas E. Winebrenner, Shawn G. Orr
  • Publication number: 20100155088
    Abstract: Described herein are an inerting method as well as an inerting system (1) for preventing and/or extinguishing fire, wherein a gas separation system (3, 4) is provided to set and/or maintain a predefinable oxygen content, which is reduced compared to normal ambient air, in the spatial atmosphere of an enclosed room (2), said system separating off at least a portion of the oxygen contained in an initial nitrogen/oxygen gas mixture and thereby provide a nitrogenated gas mixture at the outlet (4a) of the gas separation system (3, 4). In order to achieve the setting and maintaining of a predefined inerting level with the lowest possible expenditure of energy, the description herein provides for a control device (5) designed to control the gas separation system (3, 4) such that the residual oxygen content of the nitrogenated gas mixture is changed as a function of the oxygen content prevailing at that moment in the spatial atmosphere of the enclosed room (10).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2009
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Applicant: Amrona AG
    Inventors: Anselm Eberlein, Peter Uwe Kersten
  • Patent number: 7740081
    Abstract: A hazard detection and suppression apparatus and a single-action discharge valve for discharging a vessel's contents. The valve has a valve body with a passage therethrough through which the contents are discharged, a frangible seal held within the valve body and sealing the passage while the seal is intact, and a solenoid including an armature moveable from a first to a second position. A thermopile or a thermopile matrix senses near-infrared energy to detect a fire hazard and actuate the valve. Amplifiers for the thermopile's signal are monitored for failure. A thermostat or a manual pushbutton can also actuate the valve, and an operator's panel monitors failure conditions. Other hazard detectors may be used including a petroleum detector, a chemical sensor, a moisture detector, a radiation detector, a gas detector, and a moving body detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: TSM Corporation
    Inventors: Richard H. Edwards, Brandon N. Reed, Robert Wayne Green
  • Publication number: 20100132964
    Abstract: The present invention provides a fire extinguishing device including an upright standing hollow body. An air compressor pump is connected to the hollow body for providing pressurized air to the hollow body. At least one heat activated fluid release valve is connected to the hollow body. The present invention further provides a method of configuring a tree display.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2010
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Inventor: Sterling Whitney
  • Patent number: 7717776
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for the controlled feeding of added air into a permanently inertized room in which a predefined inertization level is or must be set and maintained within a certain control range provide for the volume flow rate at which an inert gas is fed into the room atmosphere to attain a value that is adequate for maintaining the predefined inertization level in the room atmosphere that will minimize fire risk. In addition, provisions are made whereby at all times just enough fresh air is injected into the room atmosphere as is necessary to remove from the room atmosphere that proportional concentration of hazardous substances that has not already been removed, via a corresponding return-air exhaust system as a result of the injection of inert gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Amrona AG
    Inventors: Ernst Werner Wagner, Dieter Lietz, Marcus Thiem
  • Publication number: 20100116514
    Abstract: A pendent type residential fire sprinkler is described. The residential fire sprinkler has a body with a K-factor of at least 6 passage coupled to a deflector assembly that distributes fluid flowing through the passage over a coverage area to perform in accordance with Underwriters Laboratory Standard 1626 (October 2003) for listing by Underwriters Laboratory Incorporated so that the body and a heat responsive trigger disposed between the passage and the deflector assembly of the sprinkler can be installed in accordance with the 2002 Edition of National Fire Protection Association Standards 13, 13D, and 13R. Various aspects of the residential fire sprinkler, including a method of protecting a residential dwelling unit are described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2010
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Applicant: TYCO FIRE PRODUCTS LP
    Inventors: Kenneth W. Rogers, Mark E. Fesseden, Manuel R. Silva, JR.
  • Patent number: 7712543
    Abstract: A method of designing a residential fire protection system in a residential dwelling unit are shown and described. The residential dwelling unit has a plurality of compartments as defined in the 2002 National Fire Protection Association Standards 13, 13D, and 13R. The method can be achieved by: determining a minimum quantity and location of residential fire sprinklers required to determine a hydraulic demand calculation of the residential fire sprinklers of a piping network filled with water and arranged to protect the plurality of compartments; and specifying the minimum quantity and location of residential fire sprinklers in a piping network filled with a gas. Various aspects of the invention are also shown and described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Tyco Fire Products LP
    Inventor: James E. Golinveaux
  • Patent number: 7703543
    Abstract: A fire fighting foam dispensing system includes a water inlet adapted to receive a flow of water, a first variable speed pump adapted to inject foam concentrate into the flow of water, a second variable speed pump adapted to inject foam concentrate into the flow of water, a foam outlet adapted to discharge fire fighting foam, a measuring apparatus adapted to measure flow rate in at least one of the water inlet and the foam outlet, and a system controller adapted to detect the flow rate from the measuring apparatus, and activate the second variable speed pump only upon the measured flow rate exceeding a predetermined flow rate value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: FM Global Technologies
    Inventors: Dennis L. Waters, Robert B. Harriman
  • Patent number: 7673694
    Abstract: The invention relates to an inertization device for establishing and maintaining an inertization level in a protective room. The inertization device has a controllable inert gas system for providing inert gas, a first supply pipe system connected to the inert gas system and the protective room to supply the inert gas to the protective room, and a control unit to control the inert gas system such that a presettable inertization level is established and maintained inside the protective room. In order to raise the inertization level inside the protective room rapidly to an accessibility level without requiring major structural measures, a valve controlled by the control unit is connected to the inert gas system and the first supply pipe system to supply the exhaust air prepared by the inert gas system as fresh air to the protective room.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Amrona AG
    Inventors: Ernst-Werner Wagner, Peter Clauss
  • Patent number: 7661482
    Abstract: The present invention provides a tree fire extinguishing device including an upright standing hollow body. An air compressor pump is connected to the hollow body for providing pressurized air to the hollow body. At least one heat activated fluid release valve is connected to the hollow body. The present invention further provides a method of configuring a tree display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Inventor: Sterling Whitney, Sr.
  • Publication number: 20100025053
    Abstract: A safety apparatus is disclosed for inhibiting an outbreak of an electrical fire within an electrical box. The apparatus includes a heat sensitive device which is disposed within the electrical box for sensing a potentially hazardous temperature rise within the electrical box caused by an electrical fault in the electrical box. A control device is associated with the heat sensitive device such that the control device is activated by the heat sensitive device when the heat sensitive device senses the potentially hazardous temperature rise within the electrical box. An electrical fire inhibiting device is operably connected to the control device. The electrical fire inhibiting device has a dormant mode and a fire extinguishing mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2008
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Inventor: Lyle H. Chesley
  • Publication number: 20090266565
    Abstract: A wildfire prevention system is described. The system includes a data measurement station for measuring environmental factors relevant for determining the likelihood of a wildfire in a prescribed area, a control station configured to receive data measured by the data measurement station and to determine the likelihood of a wildfire by comparison of the data received with predetermined data values representing likelihood of a wildfire, the predetermined data values including data values for each of the environmental factors individually and in combination with other environmental factors, and a moisture induction system including a water reservoir, configured for induction of moisture in the prescribed area on activation by the control station on the determination of the likelihood of a wildfire in the prescribed area. A method of preventing a wildfire is also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventor: Srirangapatnam A. Char
  • Patent number: 7607488
    Abstract: A fire extinguishing system for use with gas or electric range stove top to automatically deploy and energize an audible alarm. The system includes a pressurized supply of inert gas within an inflatable bag. A grease fire on the stove top breaks the fusible cord and allows the case to open, releasing the inert gas supply. The inert gas inflates a flame resistant bag to cover the burners of the stove top. The bottom of the flame resistant bag is a specific temperature sensitive material that will decompose on contact with the grease fire. As the bottom decomposes, the flame resistant material surrounds the cooking container containing the grease fire. The grease fire becomes isolated by flame resistant materials and inert gas. The bottom two layers of the bag have an additional layer of non-flammable absorbent fiber between the two layers of the decomposing bottom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Inventor: Thomas Joe Durham
  • Publication number: 20090250230
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a local and active fire protection means at a system for cable entries, pipe penetrations etc. Said system may comprise a frame (1) and a number of modules (2) adaptable to different pipes, cables etc. A sprinkler head (7) either connected to an existing sprinkler system (14) or a pressurised reservoir (10) is received in a module (2) inside the frame (1) together with a conduit (6) connected to the existing sprinkler head (7) or the pressurised reservoir (10). In one example the frame (1) including the sprinkler head (7) is received in a wall (11) separating two compartments (12, 13). The sprinkler head (7) connected to the existing sprinkler system (14) may give a water mist (15) at the frame (1) in one of the compartments (12).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2005
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Inventor: Tomas Kreutz
  • Publication number: 20090242218
    Abstract: A sprinkler head including a sprinkler body with a passage for fluid and a seal mechanism sealing the passage, and a cage member. A frangible bulb extends between the cage member and the seal. A shape memory alloy element is associated with the frangible bulb and has a first configuration that fits within, about, or abutting the bulb and a second configuration at a predetermined temperature which breaks the frangible bulb releasing the fluid through the passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2009
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Inventors: Marthinus Cornelius Van Schoor, Attila Jozsef Lengyel, Matthew Pike
  • Patent number: 7594545
    Abstract: Disclosed are systems and methods for preventing ignition and fire in maintained hypoxic environments. In one aspect of the present invention, the hypoxic environment is initially obtained via an initial release of large quantities of nitrogen and is thereafter maintained via use of nitrogen generation equipment, thereby eliminating the need for onsite nitrogen storage. In other aspects of the present invention, the hypoxic environment is initially obtained via the same equipment used to maintain the hypoxic environment. Additionally, venting is provided to prevent over-pressurization of the hypoxic environment or to otherwise regulate the pressure of the environment. Furthermore, ultra-sophisticated fire detection system is implemented to detect invisible by-product materials as they degrade during pre-combustion stages of an incipient fire, thereby detecting a fire as early as six hours prior to ignition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2009
    Inventor: Ronald Jay Love
  • Publication number: 20090159301
    Abstract: A tumble dryer with a fire-extinguishing facility includes a fire sensor for detecting a fire in a laundry drum of the tumble dryer, and an extinguishing medium supply device for introduction of an extinguishing medium into the laundry drum of the tumble dryer on actuation of a fire-extinguishing device. The extinguishing medium supply device includes a laundry freshening device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2008
    Publication date: June 25, 2009
    Applicant: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgerate GmbH
    Inventors: Brian Chatot, Mike Peebles
  • Patent number: 7530402
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Assignee: Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC
    Inventor: Michael F. Cabral