Condition Responsive Control Patents (Class 169/56)
  • Patent number: 6585054
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Assignee: The Viking Corporation
    Inventors: Peter W. Thomas, Thomas G. Deegan, Scott T. Franson, Michael J. Bosma, Delwin G. Dornbos
  • Patent number: 6572948
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventor: Michael G. Dykhoff
  • Publication number: 20030094288
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2003
    Publication date: May 22, 2003
    Inventors: Ernst Werner Wagner, Volker Schutte
  • Publication number: 20030062175
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2002
    Publication date: April 3, 2003
    Inventors: Donald E. Olander, Michael L. Schall
  • Publication number: 20030010509
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2001
    Publication date: January 16, 2003
    Inventor: Bryan K. Hoffman
  • Patent number: 6488099
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2002
    Assignee: MIJA Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: John J. McSheffrey, Brendan T. McSheffrey
  • Publication number: 20020134557
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2002
    Publication date: September 26, 2002
    Applicant: Phillips Plastics Corporation
    Inventor: Francis Petersen
  • Patent number: 6456903
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Assignee: EnviroFoam Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Glen Var Rosenbaum, James W. Morand
  • Publication number: 20020117311
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2002
    Publication date: August 29, 2002
    Inventor: Goran Sundholm
  • Patent number: 6439315
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Assignee: Senju Sprinkler Company Limited
    Inventor: Hiroshi Onuki
  • Publication number: 20020112863
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2001
    Publication date: August 22, 2002
    Inventors: Randall Padgett, J. Michael Pons
  • Publication number: 20020096340
    Abstract: 1. Device for performing safety functions in areas with high frequency radiation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2002
    Publication date: July 25, 2002
    Applicant: MLS MIKROWELLEN-LABOR-SYSTEME GMBH
    Inventors: Bernd Ondruschka, Matthias Nuchter, Werner Lautenschlager
  • Patent number: 6415870
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Inventor: Gengo Matsuoka
  • Publication number: 20020053440
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2001
    Publication date: May 9, 2002
    Inventor: Jong Jin Gil
  • Patent number: 6364026
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Inventor: Irving Doshay
  • Patent number: 6360825
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Inventors: Randall Padgett, J. Michael Pons
  • Patent number: 6352121
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2002
    Inventors: Mark P. Pitell, Linda L. Pitell
  • Patent number: 6347669
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2002
    Inventor: Göran Sundholm
  • Patent number: 6345670
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2002
    Inventor: Göran Sundholm
  • Patent number: 6336510
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2002
    Assignee: Eltek S.p.A.
    Inventor: Costanzo Gadini
  • Publication number: 20010025711
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2001
    Publication date: October 4, 2001
    Inventor: William Joseph Reilly
  • Patent number: 6296062
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2001
    Inventor: Göran Sundholm
  • Patent number: 6296808
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2001
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: A. Noel J. Pearman
  • Patent number: 6286604
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Inventor: Ren-Sheng Ou
  • Patent number: 6263974
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2001
    Inventor: Göran Sundholm
  • Patent number: 6230815
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2001
    Inventor: Göran Sundholm
  • Patent number: 6189623
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignees: Federalny Tsentr Dvoinykh Tekhnology “Sojuz”, AES International Pty. Ltd.
    Inventors: Evgeny Fedorovich Zhegrov, Alexandr Ivanovich Doronichev, Jury Michailovich Milechin
  • Patent number: 6161623
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2000
    Inventor: Dong-Won Shin
  • Patent number: 6158476
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Assignee: Trelleborg Viking AS
    Inventor: Kyrre Sjotun
  • Patent number: 6152236
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Assignee: The Viking Corporation
    Inventors: James G. Retzloff, Thomas E. Winebrenner, Scott T. Franson
  • Patent number: 6131667
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Assignee: Safety Inventions, Ltd., Part.
    Inventors: Mongkol Jesadanont, Apijade Jesadanont, Sukanya Jesadanont
  • Patent number: 6123153
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Assignee: Grinnell Corporation
    Inventor: David M. Finnegan
  • Patent number: 6119785
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: Fagus-GreCon Greten BmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Wulf Reise, Wilfried Henze
  • Patent number: 6105583
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Inventor: Takanori Yamada
  • Patent number: 6075447
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2000
    Inventors: Michael S. Nightingale, Steven H. Bliss
  • Patent number: 5967239
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Assignee: Kamat-Pumpen GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Dirk Sprakel, Jan Sprakel
  • Patent number: 5967238
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Inventors: Jerome S. Pepi, Stephen James Nettleship, Brian Ernest Daly
  • Patent number: 5960888
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Inventor: Garry L. Moore, Sr.
  • Patent number: 5934381
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Inventor: Theodore E. Larsen
  • Patent number: 5915480
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1999
    Assignee: R-Amtech International, Inc.
    Inventors: Valeryj Nilovich Yemelyanov, Aleksey Ivanovich Sidorov, Vyacheslav Vasilyevich Prosyanyuk, Valeryj Nikolaevich Kozyrev
  • Patent number: 5899277
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1999
    Assignee: Intertechnik Techn. Produktionen Gesellschaft m.b.H.
    Inventors: Arthur Alexander Eisenbeiss, Reinhard Zierler
  • Patent number: 5842526
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1998
    Inventors: Robert C. Archer, Paul Clark
  • Patent number: 5779537
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1998
    Inventor: Jan Fritz Alden
  • Patent number: 5485884
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 23, 1996
    Assignee: Ergenics, Inc.
    Inventors: David J. Hanley, E. Lee Huston, P. Mark Golben
  • Patent number: 5423150
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 13, 1995
    Inventor: David J. Hitchcock
  • Patent number: 5276433
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 4, 1994
    Assignees: Brissco Equipment Limited, David L. Melton
    Inventors: Martin W. Booker, David L. Melton
  • Patent number: 5263543
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1988
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1993
    Inventor: Ralph Nigro
  • Patent number: 5188186
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1993
    Inventor: Dale K. Nash
  • Patent number: 5165482
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1992
    Inventors: Dennis E. Smagac, John D. Breedlove
  • Patent number: 5099976
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1992
    Assignee: W. B. Jamison Limited Partnership
    Inventor: Will B. Jamison