Having Fusible Plug, Support, Or Holder Patents (Class 169/57)
  • Patent number: 5988264
    Abstract: A system for cooling, heating and fire-protecting an enclosure or dwelling, consisting of six principal entities acting in cooperation. The first is an expansive system of wide, shallow ducting installed just outboard and against the innermost wall layers of the peripheral walls, ceiling and at times, the floor, thermally intimate but physically isolated from the interior volume of the enclosure. The second is an evaporatively-cooled air source, supplying the duct system, which cools the innermost wall layers and in turn, the interior volume, by radiation and convection. The third entity, being an encompassing layer of efficient insulation, just outboard of the ducting and within the enclosure, biasing the cooling and heating action to the interior volume. The fourth is a network of hot-water circulating tubes, lying within, or adjacent to said cooling ducts, and against the innermost wall layer, or inboard plate thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Inventor: Aaron Goldsmith
  • 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: 5732779
    Abstract: An improved chimney-fire safety device includes a cylindrical canister that is placed in the top of a chimney or a stovepipe. The canister contains a mesh basket which has one or more membranes that are filled with extinguishing compounds. The mesh basket and a protective insulation platform are retained in the canister during controllable fires. The basket is secured to the canister by a tether. A fuse cap located in a bottom portion of the canister retains the basket, but disintegrates at a temperature commensurate with that of a runaway fire. When the fuse cap disintegrates, the mesh basket containing the extinguishing compounds drops from the canister and becomes suspended over the fire due to the tether; thus, the extinguishing chemicals are dispersed to the fire in a controlled fashion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1998
    Inventor: Jon Palmatier
  • Patent number: 5585047
    Abstract: A fire resistant industrial water cooling tower (20) is disclosed having normally closed passive vent structure (28) which vents the interior of the tower (20) above the area which is undergoing combustion to enhance suppression of the fire. The vent area is dependent upon the location and extent of the fire. The vent structure (28) comprises means presenting a series of vent openings which are closed by a component (88) that responds to flames and/or hot products of combustion to move out of blocking relationship to the opening thus venting the interior of the tower. In preferred embodiments, the vent includes a panel member (82) having a series of openings (83) therein which are either covered or blocked by a synthetic resin member (88) formed of a material which will burn and has a relatively low melt temperature thereby causing the material to either burn or rapidly melt when subjected to flames and/or hot products of combustion resulting from a fire in a part of the tower.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1996
    Assignee: The Marley Cooling Tower Company
    Inventors: Kenneth P. Mortensen, Ronald D. Forest, John W. Rellihan
  • Patent number: 5551517
    Abstract: An automatic fire extinguishing discharge valve capable of attachment to a fire extinguisher thereby enabling automatic discharge of extinguishing medium upon sufficient impact or temperature rise. The automatic feature is controlled by maintaining a temperature sensitive trigger mechanism of a predesigned mass in opposition to a spring force attempting to drive a puncturing mechanism into the fire extinguisher. So long as the trigger mechanism remains in place the fire extinguisher will remain at the ready position and will not discharge the suppressant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 3, 1996
    Inventors: Joseph Arsenault, James Analetto
  • Patent number: 5503231
    Abstract: The present invention features an improved chimney fire safety device. The device includes a cylindrical canister that is affixed in the top of a chimney or stove pipe. The canister contains one or more membranes containing extinguishing compounds. A metal dish is disposed in the bottom of the canister, and holds the extinguishing compounds in place until needed. The walls of the canister adjacent the metal dish are coated with a frictionless, high-temperature, anti-seize material, so that the metal dish will drop from the canister without difficulty at the proper time. A fuse cap is affixed to the bottom of the canister. The fuse cap is contiguously held to the metal dish, and keeps it in place until a predetermined temperature of an uncontrolled fire is reached. Thereafter, the fuse cap will disintegrate and allow the metal dish to drop from the canister.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1996
    Inventor: Jon Palmatier
  • Patent number: 5493820
    Abstract: A duct system contains a narrow, liquid tight conduit filled with cold water which can be used to prevent fires in the ducts of chimneys, high rise buildings, restaurants and the like. If a fire starts in a duct, the wall of the duct heats up very slowly because of its proximity to the thin walled conduit containing the cold water (which gets warmer as the fire builds momentum). If the fire persists and the heat of the outer wall rises to a designated temperature (e.g. 200 degrees Fahrenheit), a valve opens and the heated water (the originally cold water) is flushed out and fresh cold water is brought in, further impeding the fire's progress. The fire will likely burn itself out without ever igniting any combustibles outside the duct walls. The flushed out water can be sprayed onto the roof of the building to prevent any burning fly ash from starting a fire on the roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 27, 1996
    Inventor: Michael A. Joseph
  • Patent number: 5490566
    Abstract: Fire extinguishers include portions formed of heat fusible material that contain powderized fire extinguishing material. The heat fusible material releases the fire extinguishing material upon exposure to predetermined temperatures, and is preferably self-extinguishing. Such extinguishers may contain collection layers which collect the heat fusible material during a fire in order to minimize future gratuitous untidiness otherwise caused by coagulated heat fusible material on floors, furniture, and other surfaces. The extinguishers may conveniently be formed in panels which may supplant SHEETROCK.RTM. or ceiling panels, and thus escape notice of the casual observer. Similarly, a collar according to the present invention may be placed around the flue of a kitchen ventilator and effectively fight fire but remain out of sight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 13, 1996
    Assignee: FireMelt International, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert W. Purser
  • Patent number: 5163516
    Abstract: The present invention features a chimney fire safety device that attacks a chimney fire by a multi-stage application of flame extinguishing compounds. The extinguishing compounds are disposed in a nested envelope, one-within-the-other. Each compound mass is enclosed in a fusible, time-release membrane, and the encased compounds are nested within each other, such that the fire extinguishing applications are sequentially applied one after the other at ever closer positions relative to the source of the fire. The compound mass rests upon, or is confined by, a platform at the top of a chimney or wood burning stove flue. The platform is designed to collapse, thus dropping the chemicals upon the fire. A fusible link melts under the higher temperature of an uncontrolled fire, thus collapsing the platform and releasing the chemical extinguisher. An alarm or flag warning is also triggered in response to the melting of the fusible link.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1992
    Assignee: Gilbert Machine & Tool Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Jon Palmatier
  • Patent number: 5056603
    Abstract: A fire-resistant container such as a courier bag or the like which provides both active and passive protection to its contents to thereby obtain a high degree of fire protection over a long period of time. Passive protection is provided by insulating walls, while active protection is obtained by disposing inside the bag a gas cylinder containing a charge of halogenated hydrocarbon. The gas cylinder is closed with a solder plug whose melting temperature is chosen in accordance with the type of material to be protected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1991
    Assignee: W.R. Parkinson Co., Inc.
    Inventor: William R. Parkinson
  • Patent number: 4987958
    Abstract: An apparatus is presented for reducing temperatures within a firebox to provide reduced temperatures within a firebox and accordingly eliminate combustion occurring within a flue assembly of the firebox. A solenoid apparatus is operative upon closure of a circuit effected by actuation of a bi-metallic strip in response to elevated flue temperatures. A pressurized water container directs extinguishing fluid, such as water, through a spray nozzle interiorly of the firebox to reduce temperatures within the firebox.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 29, 1991
    Inventor: Charles A. Fierbaugh
  • Patent number: 4964471
    Abstract: A fire suppression system for use with ducts carrying corrosive gases has a multiplicity of sprinkler assemblies, each having an easily replaceable adapter with a sprinkler head having a fusible alloy fill. The head is screwed into one end of the adapter which has an integral flange at its opposite end. The adapter is inserted in a flanged nozzle which is part of the duct. The adapter flange is bolted to the nozzle flange which has a central opening adapted for connection to a source of extinguishing fluid. A continuous passage for fluid is provided through the adapter and the flanges together with a passage through the sprinkler head, the latter being opened when the system is activated. Only the face of the adapter and a small protruding portion of the sprinkler head are exposed to the corrosive gases. The sprinkler head has a corrosion-resistant body and has a central passage containing a seal plug and a fusible fill at opposite ends and a piston between the fill and the plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 23, 1990
    Assignee: Cominco Ltd.
    Inventors: Leo K. Michalik, Segio G. Mussio
  • Patent number: 4947886
    Abstract: A flow control device, such as a valve, has a body with two portions which define two valve chambers, an inlet, which is coupled to a source of pressurized fluid and which opens into one of the valve chambers, and an outlet coupled to downstream devices, such as sprinkler heads, and which opens into the other valve chamber. A piece of collapsible tubing couples the two valve chambers. A shaft extends into the valve and is provided with a mechanism for pinching the collapsible tubing shut which causes the collapsible tubing to collapse due to the pressure exerted on its exterior by the pressurized fluid surrounding it. A coil spring is attached to the shaft and the valve body. When the valve is closed, i.e., the collapsible tubing collapsed, the coil spring is biased to cause the shaft to rotate if released. The shaft is prevented from rotating by a fusible link. When the temperature to which the valve is exposed reaches or exceeds a predetermined temperature, the fusible link melts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 14, 1990
    Assignee: Remote Controls, Inc.
    Inventor: Lee A. Grove
  • Patent number: 4947736
    Abstract: Chimney cap unit for extinguishing a starting chimney fire, comprising a part which greatly but not completely restricts the draught during the fire in the flue, and a part which regulates the outflow of the remaining flue gas stream through the normal flue, in such a way that after a chimney fire the throughflow aperture is partially restored, so that no counterflow, which could result in flue gases entering the living-room, can occur in the flue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 14, 1990
    Inventor: Wiebe Koning
  • Patent number: 4938292
    Abstract: A fire sprinkler head including a tubular body defining an inlet adapted for connection to a supply of pressurized fire extinguishing fluid, an outlet adapted for placement in a fire protected zone, and a cylindrical inner wall extending between the inlet and outlet and defining an annular recess; and a valve comprising a piston and a cup-shaped gasket retained by and mounted for movement within the body from a closed position to an open position and providing in the closed position a fluid tight seal between the inlet and the outlet and allowing in the open position fluid flow therebetween; the cup-shaped gasket comprising a bottom portion for receiving a force for inducing the gasket movement and produced by pressurized fluid at the inlet, an annular skirt portion having one end joined to the bottom portion and an opposite end retained by the piston, and an annular lip portion extending outwardly from the skirt portion and received by the annular recess so as to form a fluid tight seal therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 3, 1990
    Assignee: U.S. Fire Control Corporation
    Inventor: Wilfred V. Johnson
  • Patent number: 4895208
    Abstract: An elevator cab fire extinguishing system is carried by an elevator cab and is arranged to discharge a non-toxic fire extinguishing agent into the interior of the elevator cab in response to a fire in the elevator cab to extinguish the fire quickly and without harm to passengers and property present in the elevator cab, and includes controls responsive to the discharge of the fire extinguishing agent for automatically shutting down the ventilation fan of the elevator cab, sounding an audible alarm, and delivering the elevator cab to a designated egress level in the building within which the elevator cab travels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 23, 1990
    Inventor: Victor Alasio
  • Patent number: 4872513
    Abstract: A chimney fire extinguisher includes a small diameter narrow conduit removably insertable through a small aperture in a chimney wall. A source of fire extinguishate under pressure is coupled to one end of the conduit for delivery of the extinguishate through the conduit. A sprinkler head is fixed to the opposite end of the conduit for insertion through the chimney wall aperture. The sprinkler head comprises an enclosed chamber, a restrictor for restricting the flow of extinguishate from the conduit into the chamber, a small orifice for spraying extinguishate from the chamber into the chimney and a fusible seal for normally sealing the sprinkler head orifice. In an alternate embodiment the sprinkler head orifice is not sealed but is only loosely covered. A temperature sensor is provided for sensing the temperature within the chimney. A valve which is opened in response to the detection of chimney temperatures in excess of about 1200.degree. F.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 10, 1989
    Assignee: Wilfred J. Finnigan
    Inventors: Stanley D. Gardner, Wilfred J. Finnigan
  • Patent number: 4830117
    Abstract: A thermally responsive device for terminating the discharge of fire-extinguishing fluid from an activated sprinkler head of the pendent and sidewall type. The device includes a recessed seat which, when impressed onto an activated sprinkler head, returns the shut-off valve to the water emitting conduit to obturate fluid flow. The device is secured by a frictional locking means which allows it to remain in place as a guard against inadvertent discharge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1987
    Date of Patent: May 16, 1989
    Assignee: Fire Sprinkler Specialties, Inc.
    Inventor: Vincent J. Capasso
  • Patent number: 4830118
    Abstract: A device for terminating the flow of fire-extinguishing fluid from an activated sprinkler head of the pendent and sidewall types. A cavity within the device receives the sprinkler head and a protuberance within said cavity engages the valve assembly and returns the shut-off valve to the fluid-emitting conduit. Biased apertures within the sidewalls engage the sprinkler head flange and provide a locking means. The device is constructed from thermoplastic resins which melt and allow the device to become reactivated when ambient temperatures reach critical levels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1987
    Date of Patent: May 16, 1989
    Assignee: Fire Sprinkler Specialties, Inc.
    Inventor: Vincent J. Capasso
  • Patent number: 4813487
    Abstract: An automatically activated fire extinguishing device for a stove. The device is installable in a hood over the stove and has a compact design which substantially hides portions of the device from normal viewing. The invention also includes an automatic stove shut-off which shuts off the electricity or gas to the stove in the event of a fire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 1987
    Date of Patent: March 21, 1989
    Inventors: Conrad S. Mikulec, Robert L. Quinn
  • Patent number: 4805701
    Abstract: A fire extinguisher and alarm apparatus for a container having a rim and a cavity to retain combustible materials comprising a reservoir having a chamber for retaining a fire extinguishing fluid under gas pressure, a hollow nozzle for ejecting the fire extinguishing fluid, a temperature sensitive device which softens in the presence of heat, a device for mounting the reservoir on the container rim with the nozzle and temperature sensitive device located ajacent the container cavity, an alarm which issues an audible signal responsive to gas under pressure, and a valve responsive to softening of the temperature sensitive device for simultaneously connecting the fire extinguishing fluid in the reservoir to the nozzle for ejection therethrough into the container cavity and connecting the gas under pressure in the reservoir to the alarm to issue the audible signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1987
    Date of Patent: February 21, 1989
    Inventor: George S. Mountford
  • Patent number: 4776403
    Abstract: A device having a first tank which is equipped with a telescopic vertical column which is contained in the folded state in the tank which contains a liquid and which bears a diffuser. The device includes a second reserve tank and further includes flame detectors distributed on the periphery of the tanks. When a flame is detected, an electronic central unit automatically controls pyrotechnical obturators which place bottles of compressed gas in communication with the first tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1986
    Date of Patent: October 11, 1988
    Inventor: Alain Lejosne
  • Patent number: 4711307
    Abstract: A fire extinguisher of compact, self-contained character is installed in electrical equipment by being mounted within an aperture of a housing for the equipment. The extinguisher has an elongated vessel for containing under pressure a fire extinguishing substance such as halogenated hydrocarbon type. A nozzle is carried at one end of the vessel and is closed by fusible material which melts at a predetermined temperature to permit discharge into the housing. The nozzle is formed as part of a fitting which carries a washer-like disc having an adhesive substance on it to permit adhesive securement of the extinguisher to the equipment housing, with the greatest portion of the vessel extending exteriorly of the housing and only a small portion of the extinguisher thus extending interiorly of the housing. The vessel has a relatively high aspect ratio, such as permitting it to be installed in an aperture defined by an electrical knock-out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1987
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1987
    Inventor: Harold Rosen
  • Patent number: 4664197
    Abstract: A fire extinguishing system, particularly, but not exclusively, for use in extinguishing chimney fires. The system comprises a container having a pressurized fire extinguishing product therein. A release nozzle is installed in the chimney flue and has a conduit connecting it to a pressure release valve associated with the container. The valve is operated by a piston member which is connected by a wire cable to a fusible element which melts when the flue attains a predetermined temperature. A tension adjusting device is associated with the wire cable to adjust the tension in the cable and the position of a piston head relative to a trigger element associated with the pressure release valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1986
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1987
    Assignee: Chimney Guard Ltd.
    Inventors: Richard Leduc, Virgilio D. Duarte, Claude Lamothe
  • Patent number: 4648460
    Abstract: A fire protection system comprises a fire extinguisher, pneumatically operable actuator on the fire extinguisher for triggering the extinguisher, an elongate tube containing a temperature responsive gas-evolving substance, and a conduit connecting the tube to the actuator for transmitting gas pressure to the actuator. The gas-evolving substance is selected to generate, when the temperature about the tube attains a critical value within a predictable range, a quantity of gas which develops a pressure in the conduit sufficient to operate the actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1984
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1987
    Assignee: Chubb Australia Limited
    Inventor: Alister L. McCulloch
  • Patent number: 4552222
    Abstract: A heat activated device having a plurality of fusible elements for mounting in an aperture of a pressure fluid line which holds inactive safety fire control system which is actuated by loss of pressure in the pressure fluid line. The melting of any or all of the fusible elements at a preselected rise in temperature vents fluid pressure from the mounting aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1984
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1985
    Inventors: Kip B. Goans, Ruel R. Gober, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4527635
    Abstract: An automatic fire extinguishing apparatus with a heat fusible element comprising inner and outer members held together by a fusible material blocking the flow of fire extinguishing agent until the contiguous temperature reaches a pre-determined threshold value whereupon the inner and outer members separate to release the fire extinguishing agent. A fire extinguishing apparatus having both manual and automatic release mechanisms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1982
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1985
    Inventor: Richard N. Kirchner
  • Patent number: 4469183
    Abstract: An automatic chimney fire extinguisher and method includes a housing for insertion in a chimney at the outlet thereof and a flare in the housing connected thereto by a cord to suspend the flare below the housing at a predetermined distance. The flare is releasably retained in the housing and the extinguisher is responsive to a preselected temperature level in the chimney for releasing the flare to permit same to drop below the housing and to be suspended by the cord. The flare is ignited in response to the release thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 1983
    Date of Patent: September 4, 1984
    Inventor: Robert Hayes
  • Patent number: 4466489
    Abstract: Self-contained fire protection apparatus. The present apparatus comprises a first container for storing water or other liquid under atmospheric pressure, a discharge conduit from this container, and a second container having high surface to volume ratio for storing liquefied propellant under pressure. Communication between the first and second containers is prevented until the apparatus has to be used. Then the propellant transfer line connecting the two containers is opened, preferably by actuation of a valve controlling this line, allowing propellant vapors to flow into the first container and establish a pressure therein sufficient to cause discharge of the contents of the first container. Heat exchange between the water being discharged and the propellant is provided so that the propellant temperature and pressure do not drop appreciably as the propellant is being evaporated and transferred.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 1982
    Date of Patent: August 21, 1984
    Assignee: ICI Americas Inc.
    Inventor: John T. M. Lee
  • Patent number: 4384617
    Abstract: A chimney fire prevention device and tar trap. The device is seated on the top of a chimney or stove pipe and is comprised of a perforate support for a plastic sheet seal supporting a fire quenching material such as baking soda with sand as a weight agent. The plastic sheet withstands the temperature of normal flue gases but should a chimney fire develop the increased temperature melts the plastic seal and releases the fire quenching material to extinguish the fire. The tar trap is comprised of an open top sleeve on the interior of the device to collect condensed tars to trap the liquid tars or resins from wood fires and can be emptied periodically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 24, 1983
    Inventor: Anton C. Mueller
  • Patent number: 4367799
    Abstract: A chamber is provided with a built-in material dispenser. A confined space such as a conduit associated with the chamber contains a pressurized material, such as fire suppressant, which is released when the chamber is subjected to one or more of the following: heat above a predetermined temperature, an impact force as occasioned by a collision, pressure above a predetermined limit, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1981
    Date of Patent: January 11, 1983
    Assignee: Energy & Minerals Research Co.
    Inventor: William B. Tarpley, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4347901
    Abstract: A heat responsive fire extinguishing system is disclosed which includes a delivery tube, supported relative to and about the ceiling of a passenger compartment, for example, of an aircraft or other vehicle such as a boat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1981
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1982
    Inventor: George D. Wilhoit
  • Patent number: 4313501
    Abstract: A fire extinguishing system including a vessel having an outlet normally sealed by a frangible seal. A probe is aligned with the seal and is mounted for movement in a path intersecting the seal and spring biases the probe toward the seal in the path. A restraint is provided for normally restraining the probe in the path to prevent breakage of the seal and includes a radially outwardly opening annular groove in the probe, a series of spherical elements disposed such that they partially enter the groove, and a movable cam which abuts the spherical elements oppositely of the groove and which is configured to cam the elements partially into the groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1980
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1982
    Assignee: General Fire Extinguisher Corporation
    Inventor: Robert D. Eckert
  • Patent number: 4299289
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a fire extinguisher which comprises vessels (1, 18)filled with a fire extinguishing solution, an actuating element that breaks the vessels to eject the solution due to the occurance of fire. The actuating element is retracted against the force of a spring by a holder which is locked by a set screw (41) for exerting a pressure thereto through a heat fusible element (42) for fire detection so that the heat fusible element (42) is placed perpetually under compression. Since the heat fusible element (42) is normally subjected to compression, the element is less liable to deterioration with time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 1979
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1981
    Inventor: Kiyoshi Kato
  • Patent number: 4298068
    Abstract: A heat sensitive release device, for example a sprinkler, comprises two relatively movable components, for example a yoke and valve member. A collapsible strut system is located between the relatively movable components. The collapsible strut system includes a catch element having opposed wings between which is held a heat sensitive element, for example a double ended heat sensitive cartridge. The collapsible strut system also includes a lever fulcrummed on one of the components and a strut engaged between the other component and the lever adjacent the fulcrum. The lever bears against the heat sensitive element while the strut is connected to or integral with the catch element. In addition, an impediment is joined to the strut system and disposed between the lever and the catch element so that removal of the heat sensitive cartridge from the catch element is prevented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1978
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1981
    Assignee: Mather & Platt Limited
    Inventor: Geddes A. Bray
  • Patent number: 4276938
    Abstract: The method and appliance for fire extinguishing according to the present invention are suitable for use in stationary depot premises, baggage and engineering compartments of transportation facilities, etc. According to the method of the invention, at a suitable position in a compartment, an individual container is fixed, which is fitted with a fuse 3 responding to infrared radiation and carries a fire extinguishing compound whose function is effectuated by a chemically active liquid inhibitor confined in miniature capsules made from thermoplastic material and which is distributed over the compartment after ignition of the fuse 3 by conversion from a liquid to a gas. Vapors of the gaseous inhibitor escape from the container and produce a noncombustible atmosphere in the compartment. The appliance for performing this method embodies a container made non-gastight and fitted with a thermal charge placed inside it in the form of a rod manufactured from a highly inflammable oxygen-containing substance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1978
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1981
    Inventors: Alexandr S. Klimenko, Igor V. Emelyanov, Anatoly A. Krylov, Semen A. Yantovsky
  • Patent number: 4274491
    Abstract: A chamber is provided with a built-in material dispenser. A confined space such as a conduit associated with the chamber contains a pressurized material, such as fire suppressant, which is released when the chamber is subjected to one or more of the following: heat above a predetermined temperature, an impact force as occasioned by a collision, pressure above a predetermined limit, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1978
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1981
    Assignee: Energy and Minerals Research, Co.
    Inventor: William B. Tarpley, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4260023
    Abstract: This device provides a method of automatically extinguishing a fire that may occur in a chimney and it contains an indicating flag that rises when the extinguishing fluid has been discharged onto a fire in the chimney, upon which it is installed. The device includes an elongated and refillable container that is mounted in the top of the chimney, and it further includes a deflector at the bottom, which will create a spray effect when the fluid strikes it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1979
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1981
    Inventor: Edward Irmscher
  • Patent number: 4253527
    Abstract: A heat responsive fire extinguishing system including at least one delivery tube having a plurality of strategically spaced apart openings directed towards the area to be protected, each of the openings being closed by a plug of a suitable material having relatively low temperature fusion points, and wherein a flexible tensioned trigger line operable by the existance of an above normal ambient temperature to open and release a spring tensioned or gravity operated valve to direct a flow of a suitable pressurized fire extinguishing material into the delivery tube and wherein the plugs, exposed to the above normal ambient temperature, will be softened and blown out of the tube holes by the pressure forces of the fire extinguishing material in the tube to discharge fire extinguishing material through the holes to supress or extinguish any surrounding flames.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1979
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1981
    Inventor: George D. Wilhoit
  • Patent number: 4231430
    Abstract: A soda-acid fire extinguisher system reacts to the sensing of a fire in a building and starts a chemical reaction inside a sealed container. The chemical reaction produces carbon dioxide and water which is piped to the fire location and is sprayed on the fire by a nozzle. The fire extinguisher may also be manually activated and a nozzle is hand-held for extinguishing the fire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1978
    Date of Patent: November 4, 1980
    Inventor: Dong J. Byun
  • Patent number: 4228859
    Abstract: A sprinkler head adapted to jet water or fire extinguishing liquid with its valve automatically detached when the room temperature is raised to such extent that there is a danger of the outbreak of a fire or when the room temperature is raised due to the outbreak of a fire in a room inside a general building, wherein a water discharge valve seat is provided in the lower center of a discoidal body, a plurality of supporting legs being formed on the outside or both sides of the valve seat, the valve held in contact with the valve seat being sustained by a heat sensitive sustaining unit comprising a plurality of levers engaged with receivers of the supporting legs, a fusible member and the like, a deflector having a multiplicity of sprinkling outlets being mounted on the lower part of the discoidal body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1978
    Date of Patent: October 21, 1980
    Inventor: Tadashi Hattori
  • Patent number: 4214631
    Abstract: A sprinkler head with a valve automatically detachable when the temperature is raised to such extent that there is a danger of the outbreak of a fire in a room. The sprinkler head has a water discharge valve seat in the lower center of a discoidal body, a plurality of supporting legs being formed on the outside of the valve seat. A valve in contact with the valve seat is supported by a heat sensitive sustaining unit having a plurality of levers, a fusible retainer disposed on said supporting legs holding the valve and the cover. A deflector made of a thin material having a multiplicity of sprinkling outlets is mounted on the lower part of the body. There is a cover on the outer side of the deflector which is released by the heat sensitive unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1978
    Date of Patent: July 29, 1980
    Inventor: Tadashi Hattori
  • Patent number: 4187683
    Abstract: A fusible link is provided in a force transmitting device. Upon reaching a preselected temperature, the fusible link melts causing a cooperating locking member to engage a shoulder on a power piston to secure the same in an extended operating position and effect a lock-open condition for certain critical applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1978
    Date of Patent: February 12, 1980
    Assignee: Century Brass Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard A. Northrop, Jr., David J. Wanat
  • Patent number: 4100970
    Abstract: Panels and other objects are formed by blowing hollow bubbles of plastic into a mold and stacking the bubbles in the mold in abutment with each other while the bubbles are tacky to form a mass of bubbles bonded together in a desired contour. The bubbles are formed by blowing successive bursts of compressed air into a mass of plastic material confronting an orifice and cutting the bubble off from the mass of plastic material on the side of the orifice opposite the liquid plastic. A panel for construction purposes is illustrated and includes fire extinguishing means integral with the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1974
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1978
    Inventor: Alvin Kreske, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4055844
    Abstract: A static fluid system for detecting a selected change in an ambient condition. The system includes an elongate closed fluid line having a selected absolute pressure and pressure means to maintain the line pressure. Sensing means in the line respond to selected changes in ambient conditions to open the line and change the line to ambient pressure. Signal means responds to the change in line pressure, and flow restricting means in the line maintains the line pressure under normal ambient conditions and precludes re-establishment of the line pressure when the sensing means is activated to open the fluid line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1974
    Date of Patent: October 25, 1977
    Assignee: Beloit Management & Research Center
    Inventor: Lloyd H. Hornbostel, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4034813
    Abstract: A portable combined fire extinguisher and audible alarm that may be removably disposed at a desired location to automatically eject a stream of pressurized fire extinguishing fluid into an adjacent area upon the temperature of the ambient atmosphere surrounding the invention rising above a predetermined maximum. The invention is particularly useful in protecting areas in which highly combustible materials such as oily waste rags and the like are stored. The invention, when removably supported at a desired location, is adjustable horizontally through substantially 180.degree., and a discharge nozzle of the invention is capable of being disposed at any desired vertical angle relative to the area to be protected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 1975
    Date of Patent: July 12, 1977
    Inventor: Norman C. Le Day
  • Patent number: 4013127
    Abstract: A fire extinguisher package or assembly adapted for attachment to the top rim of a waste receptacle. A small translucent plastic container holds pressurized extinguisher liquid and a heat-activated valve for discharging and directing the liquid is connected to the top of the container and enclosed in a protecting shroud. The shroud or a cover therefor is mounted on the receptacle rim by releasable attaching means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1975
    Date of Patent: March 22, 1977
    Assignee: Rubbermaid Commercial Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth S. Tenney, Michael A. Roby
  • Patent number: 4009622
    Abstract: The invention relates to a structural member which is capable of progressive collapse through and to at least party predetermined forms, and which may optionally incorporate function(s) other than structural member/load absorber. In preferred embodiments the alternative functions are related to safety and protection. Two of the significant features of the invention relate to constructing the member of forms of broadly conical configuration, and that the alternative function shall be that of fire extinguisher.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1975
    Date of Patent: March 1, 1977
    Inventor: Mitja Victor Hinderks
  • Patent number: 3998273
    Abstract: Apparatus for use with a fire safety device such as a sprinkler has fusible means for attaching one or more magnets to a non-magnetic first member or escutcheon. The magnets may also hold the escutcheon to a magnetic second member such as a housing for the sprinkler until heat, as from a fire, melts the fusible material to release the escutcheon from the magnet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1976
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1976
    Assignee: The Reliable Automatic Sprinkler Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard F. Juliano