Condition Responsive Control Patents (Class 169/56)
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Patent number: 6585054Abstract: A fast response, upright sprinkler head includes a body having a central orifice through which fire extinguishing fluid is expelled through an outlet end. A yoke, attached to the exterior surface of the sprinkler body, extends beyond the outlet end of the sprinkler body and is connected at its apex to a deflector. A fusible trigger assembly is coupled to the yoke and the outlet end of the sprinkler head. The deflector is formed with a planar member having a skirt depending therefrom and an annular ledge extending horizontally from the skirt. The skirt depends from the planar member in an outward direction at a pre-selected angle from the vertical, and is formed with a plurality of through-holes. The fast response upright sprinkler head is configured to have a K value of at least 13.5, while the fusible trigger assembly has a fusing temperature between approximately 155° F. and 175° F.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2000Date of Patent: July 1, 2003Assignee: The Viking CorporationInventors: Peter W. Thomas, Thomas G. Deegan, Scott T. Franson, Michael J. Bosma, Delwin G. Dornbos
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Patent number: 6572948Abstract: A fire stopping device includes a containment shell with a heat rupturable element and an intumescent filler material arranged in the containment shell. The containment shell is formed of a fire resistant material capable of containing the intumescent material after the rupturable element fails. In addition, the heat rupturable element is designed to fail at a force which is lower than the intumescent filler material expansion force. In this manner, when the intumescent filler material reaches its activation temperature, it expands with a force greater than the strength of the rupture element, thereby causing the rupture element to fail. Thus, expansion of the intumescent filler material takes place in a controlled manner via the rupture element.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2000Date of Patent: June 3, 2003Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties CompanyInventor: Michael G. Dykhoff
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Publication number: 20030094288Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: January 8, 2003Publication date: May 22, 2003Inventors: Ernst Werner Wagner, Volker Schutte
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Publication number: 20030062175Abstract: A fire suppression system for a substantially enclosed area comprises: a plurality of solid propellant aerosol generators disposed about the enclosed area for exhausting a fire suppressant aerosol that is substantially void of an ozone depleting material into the enclosed area. Each aerosol generator including an ignition element for igniting the solid propellant thereof. Each ignition element of the aerosol generators being coupled to a fire control unit which is operative to ignite the solid propellant of at least one aerosol generator utilizing the ignition element thereof to exhaust fire suppressant aerosol into the enclosed area.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 11, 2002Publication date: April 3, 2003Inventors: Donald E. Olander, Michael L. Schall
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Publication number: 20030010509Abstract: A fire extinguishing system is adapted particularly for incorporation with a clothes dryer in a home laundry area, for extinguishing any fire occurring from ignition of lint or other combustible material. The system may also be installed with other large, heat producing appliances (kitchen stove, etc.) for extinguishing any fire resulting therefrom. The system includes one or more conventional, heat activated fire extinguisher spray heads connected to the main water line of the structure. Each extinguisher head is secured in a fitting including an automatically actuated water shutoff valve, which closes after the fire has been extinguished to reduce water damage to the surrounding area. The system also includes an automatic disconnect or shutoff for at least the electrical circuit associated with the appliance which causes activation of the extinguisher head, and may further include an automatically actuated local (household) and/or distant (fire department) alarm.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 12, 2001Publication date: January 16, 2003Inventor: Bryan K. Hoffman
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Patent number: 6488099Abstract: An apparatus for remote inspection of fire extinguishers at one or a system of fire extinguisher stations includes, e.g., at each fire extinguisher station: a detector for lack of presence of a fire extinguisher in its installed position at the fire extinguisher station; a detector for out-of-range pressure of contents of the fire extinguisher at the fire extinguisher station; a detector for an obstruction to viewing of or access to the fire extinguisher at the fire extinguisher station; and a device for transmission of inspection report information from the fire extinguisher station to a remote central station.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2001Date of Patent: December 3, 2002Assignee: MIJA Industries, Inc.Inventors: John J. McSheffrey, Brendan T. McSheffrey
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Publication number: 20020134557Abstract: A fire sprinkler formed by an injection molding process is provided comprising a molded plastic body portion made of an injection molded plastic having a substantially hollow central portion for allowing water to pass therethrough, the hollow central portion extending from a distal end to a proximate end of the molded plastic body, a diffuser head portion located in the vicinity of the distal end of the hollow central portion, a sealing member made of an injection molded elastomeric material in proximity to the hollow central portion, and a link portion. When the link reaches a predetermined temperature the link portion is activated to start the flow of water out of the sprinkler.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 25, 2002Publication date: September 26, 2002Applicant: Phillips Plastics CorporationInventor: Francis Petersen
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Patent number: 6456903Abstract: A signal generator is electrically coupled with a first sensor for sensing the conductivity of water and electrically coupled with a second sensor for sensing the conductivity of a foam solution that included a concentration of surfactant. One or more switches repeatedly switch between the sensed conductivity of the water and the sensed conductivity of the foam solution. A conversion circuit converts the conductivity of the water into a first voltage and the conductivity of the foam solution into a second voltage, such that a single circuit path may be used to convert both conductivity values. A control circuit compares the difference of the first voltage and second voltage to determine a differential voltage that is utilized to control a surfactant control valve.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 1999Date of Patent: September 24, 2002Assignee: EnviroFoam Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Glen Var Rosenbaum, James W. Morand
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Publication number: 20020117311Abstract: The invention relates to an installation for extinguishing fire in a unit, preferably a train with at least one railway carriage, or a tunnel, the installation comprising several spray heads (3) whereof a number that is smaller than the total number of spray heads can be activated according to the location of the fire in the unit, and a drive source (5) for delivering extinguishing medium through a pipe system (4) to the activated spray heads.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 22, 2002Publication date: August 29, 2002Inventor: Goran Sundholm
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Patent number: 6439315Abstract: A sprinkler head includes a body having one end adapted for connection to a supply of pressurized fluid and the other end closed by a valve element, and a thermally responsive assembly for normally holding the valve element in a closed position and opening the valve element at a preset temperature to cause the pressurized fluid to flow out of the other end of the body. The thermally responsive assembly includes a holder and a fusible alloy contained within the holder and held in place by a plunger. The fusible alloy is free of lead and/or cadmium and includes at least two materials selected from the group consisting of tin, bismuth, indium, zinc, gallium and silver.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2001Date of Patent: August 27, 2002Assignee: Senju Sprinkler Company LimitedInventor: Hiroshi Onuki
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Publication number: 20020112863Abstract: The present invention is an automatic fire extinguisher that is ideally suited for use with electric or gas stoves. The automatic fire extinguishing device is designed and configured to be removably secured to any sized commercial or residential range hood so as to offer protection by having a device that will automatically extinguish a fire safely, quickly and efficiently. The structure and design of the fire extinguisher is such that it is installed easily and will be nonobtrusive and still provide for an aesthetically pleasing hood while offering protection to the consumer. The system of the present invention comprises a hollow housing that maintains a dispersing media for extinguishing a fire. A mechanical movement device is located within the housing. The mechanical movement device is in contact with the housed media. In use, once a fire is detected, this mechanical movement device will force the housed media to the outlet and innately provide a device that can utilize any media for extinguishing a fire.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 29, 2001Publication date: August 22, 2002Inventors: Randall Padgett, J. Michael Pons
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Publication number: 20020096340Abstract: 1. Device for performing safety functions in areas with high frequency radiation.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 18, 2002Publication date: July 25, 2002Applicant: MLS MIKROWELLEN-LABOR-SYSTEME GMBHInventors: Bernd Ondruschka, Matthias Nuchter, Werner Lautenschlager
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Patent number: 6415870Abstract: The invention provides a wet-type sprinkler system by which the water damage caused when a sprinkler heads function in a wrong way with ensuring a quick extinguishing operation at the time of fire. A suction pipe is provided for the system so as to communicate with a top part of a secondary pipeline 24 of a feed pipe arrangement 20 forming a water supply line from a water supply unit 16 to sprinkler heads 12. Further, a suction unit (an electromagnetic valve 54 and a suction pump 50) for sucking the air in the secondary pipeline section 24 from the top part of the secondary pipeline section 24 is provided onto the suction pipe 52. The suction pipe 52, the suction pump 50 and the electromagnetic valve 54 constitute a negative-pressure-securing section. In the secondary pipeline 24, which is filled with water in a normal condition water is negatively pressurized by the suction operation of the suction unit. The negatively pressurized state of the water is ensured under a normal condition.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 1999Date of Patent: July 9, 2002Inventor: Gengo Matsuoka
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Publication number: 20020053440Abstract: An electrical thermal glass ampoule for fire fighting sprinkler is disclosed. The ampoule(200) according to the present invention comprises a closed hollow cylindrical glass casing(100), an electrically heating coil(120) installed inside of said glass casing, a negative electrode(140) provided on outer surface at bottom end of said casing and electrically connected with one end of said coil, a positive electrode(142) provided on outer surface at side wall of said casing and electrically connected with the other end of said coil, and heat expansive gas(G) entrapped inside the casing. The glass ampoule(200) can be precisely manufactured as a single body integrated with a thermal coil(120) inside of the casing, have good install handiness due to no necessity of coil being wound around the ampoule and has long term duration because the coil(120) is installed inside the glass casing(100) and, thus can be prevented from corrosion.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2001Publication date: May 9, 2002Inventor: Jong Jin Gil
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Patent number: 6364026Abstract: A fire fighting system comprising a set of unmanned, aircraft, fire detection subsystems; a set of launch-on-need, unmanned aircraft, fire suppression subsystems; and a manned, central, robotic vehicle flight control and monitoring station. When deployed, the robotic survey vehicles continuously patrol the wildland so that fires can be detected when they first start. The robotic extinguisher vehicles, which contain fire suppressant or extinguisher are deployed on rocket assist or other automated take-off launchers at critical locations throughout the wildland. The pilot at the central monitoring station controls the flight path of the survey vehicles and continuously receives video and fire scan information from them. Upon detection of a fire signal, its position is determined via use of a Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) system and permission is sought from the applicable security agency to launch an extinguisher vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 1999Date of Patent: April 2, 2002Inventor: Irving Doshay
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Patent number: 6360825Abstract: The present invention is an automatic fire extinguisher that is ideally suited for use with electric or gas stoves. The automatic fire extinguishing device is designed and configured to be removably secured to any sized commercial or residential range hood so as to offer protection by having a device that will automatically extinguish a fire safely, quickly and efficiently. The structure and design of the fire extinguisher is such that it is installed easily and will be nonobtrusive and still provide for an aesthetically pleasing hood while offering protection to the consumer. The system of the present invention comprises a hollow housing that maintains a dispersing media for extinguishing a fire. A mechanical movement device is located within the housing. The mechanical movement device is in contact with the housed media. In use, once a fire is detected, this mechanical movement device will force the housed media to the outlet and innately provide a device that can utilize any media for extinguishing a fire.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2000Date of Patent: March 26, 2002Inventors: Randall Padgett, J. Michael Pons
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Patent number: 6352121Abstract: A vehicle fire extinguisher system for extinguishing a fire in event of a crash or another adverse vehicle mishap. The vehicle fire extinguisher system includes a central processing unit being adapted to be securely mounted in a vehicle including airplanes; and also includes a plurality of heat and impact sensors adapted to be disposed about a vehicle and being connected to the central processing unit; and further includes a fire extinguisher assembly being adapted to be securely disposed in a vehicle and being connected to the central processing unit.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2000Date of Patent: March 5, 2002Inventors: Mark P. Pitell, Linda L. Pitell
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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: 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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Publication number: 20010025711Abstract: A low pressure actuator for use in a dry, low-pressure, pressurized-gas, fire control and suppression sprinkler system for delivering an extinguishing liquid to a fire, wherein there is a system gas pressure of up to about 20 psi and an extinguishing liquid supply pressure of up to about 160 psi is disclosed. When actuated by a rapid fall in the system gas pressure, the device allows liquid to flow through to a sprinkler check valve, which, in turn, is actuated and provides liquid flow for distribution through a piping system to a plurality of interconnected sprinklers.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 16, 2001Publication date: October 4, 2001Inventor: William Joseph Reilly
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Patent number: 6296062Abstract: The invention relates to an installation for extinguishing fire, the installation comprising a number of spray heads (330a, 380a), a pipe system (381) for leading extinguishing medium to the spray heads, which spray heads comprise a holder body having an inlet for incoming extinguishing medium and at least one nozzle.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2000Date of Patent: October 2, 2001Inventor: Göran Sundholm
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Patent number: 6296808Abstract: A system for at least partially decontaminating personnel in response to detection of an agent harmful to human life such as a chemical or biological agent. The system can provide a sprinkler head above a walkway such as a hallway through which personnel are expected to walk. The sprinkler can provide a spray of decontamination fluid such as gas or liquid over personnel passing underneath, removing or neutralizing at least some of the harmful agent and reducing the transport of the agent from one area to another. Preferably, the system includes a sprinkler or shower head coupled to an existing fire isle control sprinkler supply pipe, wherein the sprinkler head may include a valve that is remotely controlled and can be opened in response to detection of a chemical or biological agent.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 1999Date of Patent: October 2, 2001Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventor: A. Noel J. Pearman
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Patent number: 6286604Abstract: A powerless automatic and/or manual fire-extinguishing device is disclosed, which is especially a powerless fire-extinguishing device, wherein steel ropes are used to actuate a fire-extinguisher automatically or manually so that fire-extinguishing material can extinguish fire through fire-extinguishing tubes. The powerless automatic and/or manual fire-extinguishing device includes an automatic sensor and/or manual device, a fire-extinguisher steel barrel actuating device and a gas isolating device. In the automatic sensor or manual device, a fuse sensor or a manual switch is used so that the tightness of the steel rope is varied for actuating the actuating device of a fire-extinguisher steel barrel and the gas isolating device can be driven synchronously for isolating the supply of gas. Therefore, fire is extinguished and gas flow is closed.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2000Date of Patent: September 11, 2001Inventor: Ren-Sheng Ou
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Patent number: 6263974Abstract: The invention relates to a power source for supplying water-based liquid to a system, the power source comprising a container (5) for the water-based liquid and a pump unit (6) which comprises a pump (7) and a power source (8) for the pump, the pump unit being arranged to supply the water-based liquid from the container to the system via a pipe system (4) which is filled with a liquid.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2000Date of Patent: July 24, 2001Inventor: Göran Sundholm
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Patent number: 6230815Abstract: The invention relates to a sprinkler or a spray head comprising a housing (2), an inlet (3), a nozzle (4) mounted in the housing, a passage (17-18-13) from the inlet to the nozzle, and a holder (8) for a release means, the holder being mounted in front of the nozzle so that it prevents the nozzle from spraying extinguishing medium forward without hindrance, the nozzle being arranged to spray extinguishing medium once the release means has been released. The holder (8) is mounted in the housing (2) by means of a locking mechanism, which is arranged to open and release the holder (8) from the housing once the release means (7) has been released.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2000Date of Patent: May 15, 2001Inventor: Göran Sundholm
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Patent number: 6189623Abstract: The invention relates to a method of extinguishing a fire of complex category with flame burning accompanying with smoldering of products of burning. Besides, the disclosure concerns a fire extinguishing system embodying the method and a fire extinguishing generator used, in particular, in the system.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Assignees: Federalny Tsentr Dvoinykh Tekhnology “Sojuz”, AES International Pty. Ltd.Inventors: Evgeny Fedorovich Zhegrov, Alexandr Ivanovich Doronichev, Jury Michailovich Milechin
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Patent number: 6161623Abstract: Control of smoke and fire in a region threatened by a fire through the use of an exit door and a doorcase around an exit door is accomplished in such a manner to first supply water from a water source to a water supply tube which is connected to the doorcase in a constant level of pressure by a pump. The water supply tube which is connected to the doorcase in a constant level of pressure by a pump. The water supply tube is provided with a solenoid valve for controlling the water flow into the doorcase and a branch-connecting portion. Further, pressurized air is supplied to an air supply tube connected to the branch-connecting portion to fluid-communicate with the water supply tube. The air supply tube is provided with an air solenoid valve for controlling the airflow into the branch-connecting portion. The solenoid valve is opened to render the water to flow into the doorcase having a plurality of nozzle holes facing to the exit door, if a fire is detected either by a detector or a manual actuator.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 1999Date of Patent: December 19, 2000Inventor: Dong-Won Shin
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Patent number: 6158476Abstract: A pipe or hose (10) intended primarily for fire protection purposes and capable of withstanding high heat flux densities. The pipe or the hose has an internal, tubular rubber layer (11) and a casing (12) provided with holes which casing embraces the tubular rubber layer (11) in close contact therewith. The holes in the casing (12) are situated close together and have a limited cross-sectional area such that liquid transported in the pipe or hose (10) at a current liquid pressure above atmospheric pressure and through the medium of a nozzle effect in direct contact with the casing (12) and, subsequent to release from said casing contact, is able to form a free-standing liquid jet. When used in sprinkler systems or like fire extinguishing systems, the pipe or the hose will be imparted herewith self-sealing and self-protecting properties, and will withstand a heat flux density caused by a jet fire of up to about 500 kW/m.sup.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 1999Date of Patent: December 12, 2000Assignee: Trelleborg Viking ASInventor: Kyrre Sjotun
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Patent number: 6152236Abstract: A combined trigger and concealing device for an automatic sprinkler head comprises a first plate attached to a second plate by a heat fusible material in a partially overlapping manner. Each plate is formed with an aperture which receives an actuator depending from the bottom of the sprinkler head. The trigger device depends a preselected distance from the bottom of the sprinkler head body and has an outer dimension which causes the trigger device to conceal the internal components of the sprinkler head from view. An annulus defined between the periphery of the device and the bottom of the sprinkler head permits heat energy to be received by the inner surface of the trigger device. Conduction of heat energy from both the inner and outer surface of the trigger device permits the heat fusible material to be expeditiously raised to the preselected separation temperature. This uniform thermal conduction minimizes the response time of the automatic sprinkler head while maintaining a highly aesthetic appearance.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 1998Date of Patent: November 28, 2000Assignee: The Viking CorporationInventors: James G. Retzloff, Thomas E. Winebrenner, Scott T. Franson
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Patent number: 6131667Abstract: A fire extinguisher which maintains a constantly high pressure inside a shell of the fire extinguisher through out a shelf-life of the fire extinguisher comprising an ejection chamber having internal threads at its lower edge and a shell having external threads at its upper edge to mate tightly with internal threads of ejection chamber where shell contains fire extinguishing agent in an absolutely closed system, and where there is a pressing element presses on top of a plate fillet welded to an inner lower wall of the ejection chamber. Upon destroying pressing element, pressure inside shell causes a hole being formed in said plate allowing ejection of fire extinguishing agent to put out fire.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 1997Date of Patent: October 17, 2000Assignee: Safety Inventions, Ltd., Part.Inventors: Mongkol Jesadanont, Apijade Jesadanont, Sukanya Jesadanont
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Patent number: 6123153Abstract: A fire protection sprinkler has a body with an orifice and a coaxial outlet for delivery of fire protection fluid from a source; a cap that resists flow of fluid from the outlet in a sprinkler standby condition; and an actuator securing the cap in the standby condition and releasing the cap in an operating condition to permit flow of fluid from the outlet. The actuator includes a thermally sensitive release assembly with an elongated thermally sensitive element, e.g.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 1998Date of Patent: September 26, 2000Assignee: Grinnell CorporationInventor: David M. Finnegan
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Patent number: 6119785Abstract: The invention relates to a fire-extinguishing device and a valve block for a fire-extinguishing device. In order to create a fire-extinguishing device which has a short reaction time up to the quenching of sparks, there is provided, in a fire-extinguishing device which has an extinguishant pipe (14) which leads from an extinguishant reservoir to at least one quenching site and there terminates in an extinguishant outlet nozzle (16), an extinguishant container (20) in the region of the extinguishant outlet nozzle (16). From the container extinguishant flows into the extinguishant pipe upon a pressure drop in the extinguishant pipe (14). A valve block proposed according to the invention for a fire-extinguishing device facilitates the fitting of such an extinguishant container.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 1998Date of Patent: September 19, 2000Assignee: Fagus-GreCon Greten BmbH & Co. KGInventors: Wulf Reise, Wilfried Henze
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Patent number: 6105583Abstract: A cigarette end container capable of putting out cigarette ends definitely, suitable for being placed in a narrow space without a reduction in container capacity, and in which disposal of cigarette ends after collection may be simply, easily and hygienically carried out. A body of a cigarette end container is provided with a device for relatively raising a concentration of incombustible gas and includes a gas cylinder filled with an incombustible gas, an injection nozzle having a jet inside the container, a passage for communicating the injection nozzle to the gas cylinder, an electromagnetic control valve disposed in the passage to control a flow rate of the incombustible gas, and a timer for presetting an opening time of the electromagnetic valve.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 1997Date of Patent: August 22, 2000Inventor: Takanori Yamada
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Patent number: 6075447Abstract: A smoke detection system is provided including a plurality of smoke detector units each having a casing, an outlet cable, and an input cable. The cables of the smoke detector units are each connected end to end. Each smoke detector unit has a smoke detector for generating an activation signal upon the detection of smoke. An alarm unit is connected to the smoke units for generating an alert upon the receipt of the activation signal.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 1998Date of Patent: June 13, 2000Inventors: Michael S. Nightingale, Steven H. Bliss
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Patent number: 5967239Abstract: A fire extinguishing device activates fire extinguishing nozzle-heads in multiple locations in response to fire-induced activation of one of the fire extinguishing nozzle-heads. The fire extinguishing nozzle-heads are connected to a supply pipe which conducts a fire extinguishing fluid from a pressure generator. Each nozzle-head includes at least one fire extinguishing nozzle and a fire detection contrivance, which, in the event of a fire, triggers the issue of the extinguishing fluid from the activated fire extinguishing nozzle. Each of the fire extinguishing nozzles-heads further includes at least two connecting channels providing communication between the fire extinguishing nozzles and a supply pipe. Both connecting channels are normally closed by respective shut-off devices while the extinguishing nozzle-heads are in a quiescent state.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 1998Date of Patent: October 19, 1999Assignee: Kamat-Pumpen GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Dirk Sprakel, Jan Sprakel
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Patent number: 5967238Abstract: A thermally responsive frangible bulb containing a liquid which when heated expands to burst the bulb. In use the bulb may be positioned between a support and a sprinkler outlet cap such that when the bulb bursts the sprinkler outlet is opened. The bulb is at least partially filled with at least one halogen derivative of an aromatic hydrocarbon containing two or more halogen substituents such as 1,3-dichlorobenzene, or an aliphatic amide such a formamide. Use of these liquids enables a wide range of operating temperatures and a quick response operating time to be achieved.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 1997Date of Patent: October 19, 1999Inventors: Jerome S. Pepi, Stephen James Nettleship, Brian Ernest Daly
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Patent number: 5960888Abstract: An engine fire suppression system comprising a canister charged with a fire suppressant material, a piping system connected to the canister and terminating in a U-shaped manifold having a plurality of discharge orifices, a redundant parallel valve system in connection between the canister and the manifold, and a fire detection system controlling the redundant parallel valves having a heat sensing circuit and a smoke sensing circuit. A back up power supply is provided that is constantly maintained at full charge by the vehicle alternator but that has sufficient electrical power to power the system in the event the vehicle battery is removed. In addition, an audible alarm is initiated for several seconds prior to discharging the canister contents and during the discharge of the canister contents to alert vehicle passengers that the canister contents will be discharged or are being discharged.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 1998Date of Patent: October 5, 1999Inventor: Garry L. Moore, Sr.
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Patent number: 5934381Abstract: A hazard response structure which includes a sensor mounting housing positioned over and against an aperture of an environmental enclosure to receive pressure from the enclosure and detonate a supply of suppression material to the enclosure upon an increase of pressure therein which is indicative of an impending explosion or fire. The housing is so shaped and the sensors thereof so located to eliminate the possibility of damage thereto or the accumulation of material thereabout to interfere with pressure transmission. At least three sensors are positioned in the housing and provided circuit logic requires a response from two of the three to initiate suppression material delivery to the enclosure. The sensors also provide for setting of operational thresholds without removal of the same from such housing.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 1998Date of Patent: August 10, 1999Inventor: Theodore E. Larsen
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Patent number: 5915480Abstract: A fire extinguishing system has one or more extinguishing units (1) connected together. A heat detector (2) in each extinguishing unit acts as a device for detecting a fire and as a device for triggering an extinguishing process with the aid of a fire extinguishing device (3), which generates a fire extinguishing aerosol spray during the fire. In addition, an electric ignitor (5) and a pyrotechnic electric generator (4) is in each extinguishing unit, and--if several extinguishing units are provided--each pyrotechnic electric generator (4) is connected via wiring (6) to all ignitors (5) in the other extinguishing units. A sensor element of the heat detector (2) consists preferably of a fusible material or of a material with shape memory characteristics. The fire extinguishing system provides a high degree of operational reliability in detecting fires and in extinguishing fires at initial stages, while maintaining favorable characteristics in stand-by operation.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 1997Date of Patent: June 29, 1999Assignee: R-Amtech International, Inc.Inventors: Valeryj Nilovich Yemelyanov, Aleksey Ivanovich Sidorov, Vyacheslav Vasilyevich Prosyanyuk, Valeryj Nikolaevich Kozyrev
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Patent number: 5899277Abstract: There are described a method and a device for suppressing an explosion-like fire, in particular of hydrocarbons, by means of a fire extinguishing agent, which under pressure at a speed adapted to the speed of propagation of the fire is distributed in the space directly surrounding the source of the fire. To ensure an efficient fire fighting without adversely influencing the environment, it is proposed to spray water as fire extinguishing agent by atomizing the same to form a water mist in a minimum amount of 0.03 l/m.sup.3 from a water reservoir (3) in the space directly surrounding the source of the fire.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 1997Date of Patent: May 4, 1999Assignee: Intertechnik Techn. Produktionen Gesellschaft m.b.H.Inventors: Arthur Alexander Eisenbeiss, Reinhard Zierler
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Patent number: 5842526Abstract: A combination duct/extinguishing system includes a duct and plural sprinkler head assembly and mounting systems on the duct. Each sprinkler head assembly and mounting system includes port structure mounted on the duct defining a passageway into an area internally of the duct, sprinkler head structure having one end associated with a corresponding port structure, and another end associated with an extinguishing media, and collar structure for removable engaging the port structure and the sprinkler head structure to fixedly hold the sprinkler head in the area internally of the duct. Preferably, the collar structure includes two halves hingedly joined, each having wall structure defining a groove for receiving a portion of the port structure and the sprinkler head structure.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 1995Date of Patent: December 1, 1998Inventors: Robert C. Archer, Paul Clark
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Patent number: 5779537Abstract: A deposit cupboard (1) for solvents, combustible liquids and the like, comprises shelves (2) and at least one door. The cupboard is assigned an air intake holes (20) and an exhaust device (5), and distinguishes itself through the following combination of features: a) that the shelves (2) of the cupboard (1) are perforated and/or positioned at a distance from at least one of the adjacent inner faces of the side walls of the cupboard, in order to effect a minimum resistance against the air flow; b) that the cupboard is assigned a fire extinguishing apparatus (18) having an automatic, preferably thermostat-controlled release means; and c) that the top plate (4) of the cupboard is pivotally supported and adapted--upon the occurrence of an explosion within the cupboard--to be swung limitedly up into a securing or protecting position, wherein it forms an inclinedly directed shield, protecting the personnel from the effects of the explosion.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 1996Date of Patent: July 14, 1998Inventor: Jan Fritz Alden
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Patent number: 5485884Abstract: An actuator for performing a function at a predetermined temperature includes an actuator assembly with a resiliently expandable element and a device for liberating hydrogen gas into a sealed system formed in part by the element. When the hydrogen gas pressure in the system becomes sufficiently high, the element expands to perform the function. The resiliently expandable element is a piston or a bellows and the device for liberating hydrogen gas is a hydride sensor assembly.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 1991Date of Patent: January 23, 1996Assignee: Ergenics, Inc.Inventors: David J. Hanley, E. Lee Huston, P. Mark Golben
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Patent number: 5423150Abstract: An automated exterior fire protection system deploys a fire resistant blanket that is preferably stored under the roof of the structure. Threatening fires are detected by a sensor to provide a signal that initiates automatic deployment of the blanket. Air bleed portions may be provided in the blanket to allow air trapped between the blanket and the structure to quickly dissipate. Moreover, elastic straps may be provided in the blanket to secure the blanket in place.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 1993Date of Patent: June 13, 1995Inventor: David J. Hitchcock
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Patent number: 5276433Abstract: A temperature sensor has a flexible nylon tube connected by a fluid-tight coupling to a metal bellows within a metal housing. The interior of the tube and bellows is filled with a pressurized liquid whose critical temperature corresponds to a threshold temperature to be sensed. The pressurized liquid holds the bellows extended, holding an actuating piston back against the action of a spring. When the threshold temperature is reached, the liquid in the tube must boil and ruptures the tube, causing the bellows to collapse and the actuating piston to move. A projecting actuator then mechanically initiates a response such as the closing of a damper in an air-conditioning duct.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 1992Date of Patent: January 4, 1994Assignees: Brissco Equipment Limited, David L. MeltonInventors: Martin W. Booker, David L. Melton
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Patent number: 5263543Abstract: A fire prevention system is disclosed herein for external installation on a dwelling having an extended conduit closed at one end and detachably coupled to a source of pressurized water at its opposite end. A portion of the conduit is disposed along the highest part of the roof and is provided with a plurality of spaced-apart fluid discharge nozzles such as sprinklers. A smoke detector and sprinkler activator is operably connected to the conduit and is critically mounted on the exterior of the dwelling on the side thereof most likely to detect the presence of smoke. The windward side is an example. The activator includes solenoid operated valves responsive to the detector and further, a deactivate circuit is operably included for automatic shut-off.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 1988Date of Patent: November 23, 1993Inventor: Ralph Nigro
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Patent number: 5188186Abstract: An expandable barrier for isolating a mine entry or similar open area is disclosed wherein the expandable barrier includes an expandable hollow curtain or bag housed within a horizontal brace member connected to the roof of an entry, the expandable hollow curtain being connected to vertical brace members adjacent to the walls of the mine entry. The expandable bag fills with a material capable of expanding the bag, such as a foam-like material, and expansion of the bag causes the bag to descend downwardly from the first horizontal brace member. The bag fills with distensible material in response to a stimulus detected by a monitor associated with the containers which contain the distensible material. A closeable opening or flap is disposed in the bag to allow passage of people or equipment therethrough. The expandable barrier may also be oriented in a horizontal position for use in vertical shafts.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 1990Date of Patent: February 23, 1993Inventor: Dale K. Nash
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Patent number: 5165482Abstract: The fire deterrent system operates in a preemptive manner by detecting the impending approach of a wildfire within the vicinity of the structure to be protected. The system includes apparatus to identify the locus and direction of spread of a fire while it is outside of a defensive perimeter that encircles the structure and extends outward therefrom. The estimated time of arrival of the fire at the defensive perimeter is determined and the structure and surrounding vegetation sprayed a predetermined time in advance of the determined arrival of the fire. Prewetting the structure and surrounding vegetation reduces the probability of local fires caused by wind-borne embers and reduces the combustibility of these materials to assist conventional fire fighting efforts.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 1991Date of Patent: November 24, 1992Inventors: Dennis E. Smagac, John D. Breedlove
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Patent number: 5099976Abstract: A fire extinguishing apparatus is connected to the safety valve on an oil flooded rotary compressor to receive the contents expelled by the compressor due to internal combustion in the compressor. The contents are conducted to the fire extinguishing apparatus, which disperses them in a tank holding a quantity of non-combustible liquid sufficient to cool them. The fire extinguishing apparatus has a tank for holding non-combustible liquid, a perforated plate to disperse the burning oil and gases throughout the non-combustible liquid, an opening to allow the escape of excess pressure from the tank, and a spring loaded lid to prevent evaporation of the non-combustible liquid. A pipe connects the fire extinguishing apparatus to a safety valve and the pipe has temperature and pressure switches on its surface which shut down the compressor when the temperature and/or pressure in the pipe exceed preset limits.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 1990Date of Patent: March 31, 1992Assignee: W. B. Jamison Limited PartnershipInventor: Will B. Jamison