Fire Fighting Patents (Class 434/226)
  • Patent number: 8435039
    Abstract: An adjustable pitch simulated roof for training firefighters in roof ventilation procedures. The apparatus includes a vertical support structure and a pitched roof portion adjustably connected to the vertical support structure. The pitched roof portion includes an outer frame defining an interior region, a plurality of rafter brackets disposed on the outer frame, a plurality of rafters placed the interior region, and a plurality of roofing sheets covering the rafters so as to form a roof field. A mechanical winch or other adjustment means are provided for rapidly and easily changing the roof pitch, and a locking mechanism locks the roof portion in the selected position. A stationary and a trailer-mounted mobile embodiment are each shown and described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Inventor: Jeffrey Paganini
  • Patent number: 8419435
    Abstract: Apparatus for training the art of forcible door entry for emergency personnel such as firefighters and, in particular, a reusable forcible entry door training apparatus that allows individuals to simulate forcible entry of outward opening metal doors mounted in metal frames.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Inventor: Michael Perrone
  • Patent number: 8408917
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to apparatus for training the art of forcible door entry for emergency personnel such as firefighters and, in particular, a reusable forcible entry door training prop adapted to simulate a locked door and allow individuals to conduct training in forcible entry techniques for different door types and mounting configurations (e.g., opening inward or outward, left hand opening or right hand opening, steel jam or wood jams).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Inventor: Michael Perrone
  • Patent number: 8360782
    Abstract: A firefighting training apparatus having a trailer capable of being towed by a vehicle; an elevated platform supported above the trailer and presenting a simulated rooftop; and a raising mechanism, the raising mechanism attached between the elevated platform and the trailer, the raising mechanism supporting the elevated platform at a desired pitch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Inventor: Rodney G. Temple
  • Publication number: 20120208154
    Abstract: Apparatus for training the art of forcible door entry for emergency personnel such as firefighters and, in particular, a reusable forcible entry door training apparatus that allows individuals to simulate forcible entry of outward opening metal doors mounted in metal frames.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2011
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Inventor: Michael Perrone
  • Patent number: 8197257
    Abstract: A dual-swing breach training system is provided that includes a door having a removable strike plate therein and a removable means for adjustably securing the door and the doorframe in a coaxial position, that is readily removable to meet various training needs. A base for the system that does not obstruct access to the door during training is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Inventor: Brandon H. Clewis
  • Patent number: 8192202
    Abstract: A fire training system with improved ability to be handled and with the possibility of generating different flame aspects is provided. The fire training system has at least one liquid reservoir (1) and a regulating and control unit (2). The regulating and control unit (2) is connected to at least one distributor unit (5) via at least one electric line (3). The liquid gas reservoir (1) is connected to the at least one distributor unit (5) via at least one liquid gas line. (4). Each distribution unit (5) is provided with control valves that can be actuated for dispensing the liquid to downstream liquid gas discharge nozzles (6) and to an associated pilot burner (7), and with at least one sensor (8) for detecting the success of extinguishing. The liquid gas discharge nozzles (6) are arranged at a fire-resistant surface (9).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Dräger Safety AG & Co. KGaA
    Inventors: Volker Schütte, Martin Reichel
  • Patent number: 8177692
    Abstract: A pike pole exercise apparatus is provided for firemen to train and condition themselves for using a pike pole hook. A base has an elongated post attached thereto which extends generally vertically therefrom. An elongated hollow slide member is slidably mounted on the elongated post for sliding thereon and has a weight attached thereto so that a fireman can grip the slide member and slide it up and down on the elongated pole to exercise and train for using a pike pole hook.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Inventor: Timothy A. Deppen
  • Patent number: 8167621
    Abstract: A training device is described for perfecting the art of forcibly opening a door in an emergency. The training device has a frame and a door placed in the frame. A dead bolt is mounted in the door and protrudes from the door in a locked position relative to the frame. A vise is attached to the frame. The vise has a movable jaw mounted on a block and a stationary jaw, and means for tightening the movable jaw against the dead bolt. The dead bolt protrudes from the door between the stationary and movable jaw. A method of using the training device causes the door to pivot and the dead bolt to move off of the vise, thus simulating an actual forced opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Assignee: Red Barn Innovations LLC
    Inventor: Thomas J. Allen
  • Patent number: 8162285
    Abstract: A safety device includes a first loop arranged around a handle of a nozzle. via a first strip of material. A second strip of material extends across the second A second loop is arranged around a body of the nozzle and adjoins the first loop loop. A first strip of material includes a fastener for creating a third loop that prevents a bale of the nozzle from being opened. The safety device may include a visual indicator arranged at a free end of the first strip of material for indicating that a firefighting crew maintaining the nozzle has passed inspection and the type of agent the fire hose expels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Inventor: Dwayne Rooker
  • Patent number: 8128408
    Abstract: A door breach training system comprising a first restraint assembly connecting a door to a frame. The door is attached to a lock jamb of the frame with a first restraint assembly that exposes a shear joint to impact from a projectile, such as shotgun round. Another embodiment further comprises attachment of the door to the hinge jamb with at least one second restraint assembly that functionally simulates a typical door hinge and exposes a shear joint to impact from a ballistic round. The preferred embodiment includes replaceable lock panels and hinge panels that are designed to break in a known manner in order to replicate those same failure modes for both door locks and door hinges in typical residential and commercial construction environments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Inventors: Darron Phillips, Jeff Wright, Jeff Lambert
  • Patent number: 8096810
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for use in fire extinguisher training are provided. These methods and apparatus are implemented electronically without the need for an open flame. The training apparatus includes a display having a plurality of light sources adapted to display a varying light pattern simulating a dynamic flame; a sensor adapted to detect a stimulus emitted by one of a fire extinguisher and a fire extinguisher simulator and output a signal corresponding to the detected stimulus; and one or more processors adapted to receive the output from the sensor and vary the light pattern simulating the dynamic flame on the display in response to the stimulus detected by the sensor. The methods and apparatus may be used to train firefighters in the proper use of a fire extinguisher, for example, training in the techniques typically required when suppressing class A, B, C, D, and K type fires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Bullex, Inc.
    Inventors: John Joseph Blackburn, Ryan O'Donnell, Thomas Rossi
  • Patent number: 7972139
    Abstract: A training device for training the techniques of forcible entry through a locked door includes a door having an inner vertical edge, the door being hingedly mounted within a door frame for swinging movement between closed and open positions, the door frame including a hollow vertical jamb having a vertical surface adjacent the inner vertical edge of the door and an opening in the vertical surface communicating with the hollow. A pin projects from the door and is received within the opening in the jamb. When the door is in the closed position the pin is clamped by a pair of vertically opening and closing hinged jaws, the jaws being operable within the hollow between open and closed positions and being biased into the closed position by compression springs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventor: Gregg W. Staub
  • Patent number: 7967326
    Abstract: A tactical breaching demonstration trailer includes: a) a trailer unit having a frame, at least one axle, at least two wheels, a hitch and a flatbed; b) a breaching cage for tactical breaching demonstration, the cage being connected to the flatbed of the trailer unit, the breaching cage having a cage frame creating at least one front wall frame having a doorway and having a door hingedly connected to the doorway with hinges so as to open inwardly when not latched, the door and doorway having a door latching mechanism to prevent the door from being swung open on the hinges, the latching mechanism including a breakaway feature to yield when the door is battered with a tactical ram; and, c) breaching cage support connected to at least one of the breaching cage and the flatbed and adapted to support the breaching cage in an upright position relative to the flatbed. In some embodiments, the cage is collapsible and/or removable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Jersey Tactional Corp.
    Inventors: Nicholas Klementowicz, III, John A. Dapkins, Jr., Kenneth P. Glynn
  • Publication number: 20110143324
    Abstract: An adjustable pitch simulated roof for training firefighters in roof ventilation procedures. The apparatus includes a vertical support structure and a pitched roof portion adjustably connected to the vertical support structure. The pitched roof portion includes an outer frame defining an interior region, a plurality of rafter brackets disposed on the outer frame, a plurality of rafters placed the interior region, and a plurality of roofing sheets covering the rafters so as to form a roof field. A mechanical winch or other adjustment means are provided for rapidly and easily changing the roof pitch, and a locking mechanism locks the roof portion in the selected position. A stationary and a trailer-mounted mobile embodiment are each shown and described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2010
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Inventor: Jeffrey Paganini
  • Patent number: 7901212
    Abstract: A mobile collapsed building simulator for use in training fire fighters and emergency personnel. The simulator comprises a trailer body with an interior partitioned into two vertical levels. A plurality of partitions divide the vertical levels into a navigable path through the trailer body. A plurality of obstacles are configured within navigable path to simulate a collapsed building environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Personal Protection Equipment Specialists
    Inventors: Thomas Quinn, Kerry Oswald, Michael Quinn
  • Publication number: 20100304345
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for use in fire extinguisher training are provided. These methods and apparatus are implemented electronically without the need for an open flame. The training apparatus includes a display having a plurality of light sources adapted to display a varying light pattern simulating a dynamic flame; a sensor adapted to detect a stimulus emitted by one of a fire extinguisher and a fire extinguisher simulator and output a signal corresponding to the detected stimulus; and one or more processors adapted to receive the output from the sensor and vary the light pattern simulating the dynamic flame on the display in response to the stimulus detected by the sensor. The methods and apparatus may be used to train firefighters in the proper use of a fire extinguisher, for example, training in the techniques typically required when suppressing class A, B, C, D, and K type fires.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2010
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Applicant: BULLEX, INC.
    Inventors: John Joseph BLACKBURN, Ryan O'DONNELL, Thomas ROSSI
  • Publication number: 20100304344
    Abstract: A forcible entry training device for use with overhead doors includes an adjustable frame that is designed to hold a variety of overhead doors of different sizes, and also includes an adjustable support that applies support from the back of the door and thereby provides structural integrity to the door so that multiple vertical cuts can be made through the door. In one embodiment, vertical members in the frame are adjustably connected to horizontal members. Clamps are provided in the vertical members to secure the edges of the overhead door to the frame. Adjustable-length stabilizing legs can be used to hold the frame and door in an upright position, even when resting on an uneven surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2010
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Inventor: Craig A. Walker
  • Publication number: 20100248196
    Abstract: A simulator for use in firefighting training exercises comprising a fire compartment having a flame; a means for generating a flame; a means for generating smoke into the fire compartment; a control room for controlling the means for generating a flame and the means for generating smoke; a means for expelling the smoke from the fire compartment; a means for oxidizing the smoke; and a stack for releasing the oxidized smoke from the oxidizing means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2010
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Inventor: Dan Beishon
  • Patent number: 7789666
    Abstract: A reusable ballistic door for use in the training of individuals such as police officers and military personnel. The door may be formed to have different weak spots, requiring different techniques to enter the door. The door may be quickly and inexpensively rebuilt for subsequent training. A reusable training door may also be used inside of a shoot house to provide realistic training scenarios.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Assignee: Action Target Inc.
    Inventors: Addison Sovine, Kyle Bateman, David Bassett, James Sovine, Tom Wright, Thomas Marshall
  • Patent number: 7748983
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for use in fire extinguisher training are provided. These methods and apparatus are implemented electronically without the need for an open flame. The training apparatus includes a display having a plurality of light sources adapted to display a varying light pattern simulating a dynamic flame; a sensor adapted to detect a stimulus emitted by one of a fire extinguisher and a fire extinguisher simulator and output a signal corresponding to the detected stimulus; and one or more processors adapted to receive the output from the sensor and vary the light pattern simulating the dynamic flame on the display in response to the stimulus detected by the sensor. The methods and apparatus may be used to train firefighters in the proper use of a fire extinguisher, for example, training in the techniques typically required when suppressing class A, B, C, D, or K type fires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: BullEx, Inc.
    Inventors: John Joseph Blackburn, Ryan O'Donnell, Thomas Rossi
  • Patent number: 7744373
    Abstract: A firefighting trainer includes a tank for containing a volume of a non-combustible dispersion medium such as water. The water resides within the tank having an upper surface of the water exposed through an open upper end of the tank. A fuel distribution system distributes a combustible fuel into the tank beneath the water surface. An air distribution system distributes an oxygen containing gas (such as air) into the tank beneath the upper water surface. An ignition system ignites a mixture of a vapor of the fuel and the air at the upper surface of the water. A screen covers the open end of the tank and is spaced from the upper surface of the water. The screen has open spaces permitting passage of flame through the screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: Kidde Fire Trainers, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven J. Williamson, Louis Orotelli
  • Patent number: 7611356
    Abstract: A training device, for training emergency personnel to breach a locked door with a blunt force technique. The training device includes a door, a door frame, and a locking mechanism having a latching cylinder with a vertical axis, a latch stop, and at least one heavy-duty spring. The door is held in a closed position by the latching cylinder engaging the latch stop under the strong bias of the spring. The application of a blunt force near the locking mechanism causes the latching cylinder to move slightly away from the latch stop to allow the door to enter an open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Inventor: Michael Bishop
  • Publication number: 20090263770
    Abstract: The system and method for simulating hazardous environments provides simulated meter readings of hazardous environment for training first responder entry teams by controlling a simulated display provided to portable detection meters, such as via a wireless interface. The simulator provides meter reading displays for selected environments and allows for two-way interactive response. A master control unit allows direct control of individual meter displays and scenarios representing various hazardous environments. A hazardous environment is reflected by parameters indicating the presence of hazardous substances, and the apparatus can be implemented by external placement on current meters, as part of a general training meter, or using technology to internally control existing meters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2009
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Inventor: Philip L. Ambrose
  • Publication number: 20090215014
    Abstract: Systems and methods for providing realistic simulation of forcible entry techniques using replaceable components that are designed to be deformed and/or destroyed during use. One embodiment includes a simulator having a door frame, a door pivotally mounted on the door frame, and at least one training station sub-unit that is mounted on either the door or the frame. The training station sub-unit includes at least one component that is designed to be destroyed and replaced (sometimes known as a “consumable” component). The consumable component is destroyed during use of the training station in order to produce a realistic training experience for the trainee using the station. The training station may be a door edge insert sub-unit that holds a consumable metal insert at an edge of the door proximal to the door latch, where the metal insert is deformed upon forcibly prying the door open.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2009
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventor: Craig A. Walker
  • Patent number: 7578225
    Abstract: An improved system and operating method for a smoke generator machine and control room to be enclosed into a single trailer for the training of personnel in the art of visible smoke opacity compliance monitoring of industrial smoke discharge from smoke stacks by distinguishing the variations of smoke opacity emission based on the requirements set forth by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency EPA said smoke generator is principally used for production of white and black smoke for simulating smoke discharge from industrial smoke stacks by heating various fuels to the flash point in burn boxes to create white or black smoke and venting said smoke through a duct system to a smoke stack by creating a artificial draft by a speed control fan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Inventors: Garrett Eugene Bosch, Gary Eugene Bosch
  • Publication number: 20090197229
    Abstract: A hazard-suppression training simulator for training, for example, first responders, is provided. The simulator includes a housing; at least one source of sensation (for example, a visual or an audio sensation) representing a hazardous condition, for example, a fire; at least one sensor adapted to detect a simulated or an actual hazardous condition suppressant; and a controller adapted to vary the sensation in response to the simulated or the actual suppressant detected by the at least one sensor. The simulator may also include one or more “props” to better simulate an actual hazardous conditions, for example, a trash can or a stove pot that is on fire. The simulated suppressant may be provided by a simulated fire extinguisher, for example, a simulated extinguisher emitting an electromagnetic or sonic signal representing a fire suppressant. A hazard-suppression training method employing this simulator is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2009
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Applicant: BullEx Inc.
    Inventor: John Joseph BLACKBURN
  • Patent number: 7527499
    Abstract: An aircraft fuselage training device for training fire fighters to use fuselage penetration fire extinguishing devices includes a mounting frame and an aircraft fuselage simulation frame mounted on the mounting frame. At least one fuselage skin section sheet is releasably mounted on the aircraft fuselage simulation frame and the fuselage skin section sheet and the aircraft fuselage simulation frame are cooperatively operative to generally simulate an aircraft fuselage whereby fuselage penetration fire extinguishing devices are usable to penetrate the fuselage skin section sheet for firefighter training purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Inventor: Gary Schott
  • Publication number: 20080248450
    Abstract: A method and computer-readable medium for modeling smoke propagation in a structure are presented, along with applications of the method. A model is provided of a multiplicity of compartments within the structure, and the presence of a fire within a compartment is determined. The energy and smoke released by the fire is estimated, and smoke flows out of the compartment are determined. Each compartment having a smoke source is analyzed, individually, for the propagation of smoke. Each compartment is assumed to have a homogenous upper smoke layer and a lower cool air layer. The analysis includes a mass and energy balance to determine the change in characteristics of the upper smoke layer, where a known pressure for the lower cool air layer is used for the balance. For multiple smoke sources into a compartment, the contributions to the mass and energy balance of each smoke source are considered additive.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2007
    Publication date: October 9, 2008
    Applicant: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Qing Li, Thomas A. Plocher
  • Patent number: 7416412
    Abstract: A firefighter training apparatus includes a sled base having a plurality of sled runners and an upright post attached to the base. The upright post is slidably attached to the base for adjusting the height of the post. A pole is attached to the post with a pole-to-post attaching mechanism which pole is movable against a resistance force so that pushing the pole against the resistance force provides an exercise routine for a firefighter simulating the breaching of a ceiling. The sled base has a section of firefighter's hose attached thereto which can be grasped by the firefighter for pulling the firefighting training apparatus to simulate the pulling of a fire hose. The base also has removably attachable weights for increasing or decreasing a load pulled by the firefighter. A pair of straps is attached to the sled base for a firefighter to pull to simulate removing of victims from a hazardous environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Inventors: Roy R. Segrest, David T. Eaves
  • Publication number: 20080090214
    Abstract: A burn building for training firefighters includes a burn room with a ceiling and at least one building entry into the burn room. The burn room has at least one exterior wall where a heat generation unit is mounted, and the heat generation unit is directed into the burn room. A barrier panel in the burn room permits exposing and covering the heat generation unit. The barrier panel is raised and lowered by air operated pistons and cylinders. The heat generation unit is operated from a control panel. A rack is suspended from the ceiling to hold wood pallets which generate smoke when heated to combustion temperature. A light is located at the building entry to indicate when to enter the burn building and the burn room.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2006
    Publication date: April 17, 2008
    Inventor: Jerome F. D'Anneo
  • Patent number: 7341112
    Abstract: A firefighting training fluid (FFTF) comprising a paraffin blend. The blends of paraffins typically have no less than about two carbon atoms and no more than about twelve carbon atoms. The blends of paraffins may possess Reid vapor pressures in the range from about 2 to about 6.5 pounds per square inch. The blends also typically possess an initial boiling point of not less than about 80 degrees Fahrenheit and an end boiling point of not more than about 370 degrees Fahrenheit. The blends burn relatively cleanly and keep emissions of volatile organic compounds, compounds containing sulfur, smoke, particulates, olefins, and aromatics to a minimum. The blend components mixed to create the blends of paraffins are controlled in order to maintain Reid vapor pressure and initial and end boiling points. Oxygenates may be added to an FFTF in order to further reduce smoke emissions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2008
    Assignee: Chevron Phillips Chemical Company LP
    Inventors: Dennis G. Doerr, Nancy W. Eilerts, Don E. Burnett, Daniel M. Coombs, Eric J. Netemeyer, Kirsten N. Caswell
  • Publication number: 20080050706
    Abstract: A firefighting trainer includes a tank for containing a volume of a non-combustible dispersion medium such as water. The water resides within the tank having an upper surface of the water exposed through an open upper end of the tank. A fuel distribution system distributes a combustible fuel into the tank beneath the water surface. An air distribution system distributes an oxygen containing gas (such as air) into the tank beneath the upper water surface. An ignition system ignites a mixture of a vapor of the fuel and the air at the upper surface of the water. A screen covers the open end of the tank and is spaced from the upper surface of the water. The screen has open spaces permitting passage of flame through the screen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2006
    Publication date: February 28, 2008
    Inventors: Steven J. Williamson, Louis Orotelli
  • Publication number: 20070172801
    Abstract: Devices for training in extinguishing fires comprising a control unit and a flame generation unit as well as methods and systems of use thereof are presented.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2007
    Publication date: July 26, 2007
    Applicant: RENSSELAER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE
    Inventors: Paul R. Darois, Steven Galonska, Burt L. Swersey, John Blackburn, Travis B. Bashaw
  • Patent number: 7244123
    Abstract: A self-contained training device for simulated personnel entry, exit and rescue in confined space scenarios. The device features an enclosed tank mounted on a truck trailer. The tank has at least one top portal and at least one side portal for entry and exit. An enclosed pipe is situated within the tank and has separate points of entry and exit. The top of the tank features a walkway and handrail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2007
    Assignee: Matrix Service, Inc.
    Inventor: John Barron
  • Patent number: 7175439
    Abstract: Devices for training in extinguishing fires comprising a control unit and a flame generation unit as well as methods and systems of use thereof are presented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
    Inventors: Paul R. Darois, Steven Galonska, John Blackburn, Burt L. Swersey, Travis B. Bashaw
  • Patent number: 7074043
    Abstract: A firefighting training unit and a method of fabrication such a unit. The fabrication involves modifying an existing structure such as a steel cargo container. The modification procedures first require that combustibles be removed and a steel floor welded in place of the existing wood floor. Viewing ports and access doors are provided in the sidewalls. Roof ventilation vents are cut in the roof and the opening controlled by a hinged hatch. The units are economical, mobile and may be used for both fire training and forensic investigation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Inventor: Damon Jacobson
  • Patent number: 6889473
    Abstract: A firefighter training building having a system of movable and removable partition walls for changing the interior floor plan layout of the building is disclosed. The system includes a plurality of tracks disposed above the movable walls and a plurality of movable and removable wall panels slidably mounted on the tracks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: Fire Facilities, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven P. Westra
  • Patent number: 6877988
    Abstract: A door breach training system and related method of use thereof. The system includes a door and frame with replaceable shear pins which are designed to break under known pressures to replicate pressures required to breach doors of varying physical characteristics and lock configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2005
    Inventors: Darron Phillips, Jeff Wright
  • Patent number: 6866512
    Abstract: The purpose of the invention is to protect an instrumented firefighter's fire hose nozzle from shock and undesirable environmental pollutant penetration. The invention provides for doing this through the use of a rugged cover on the equipment as well as soft equipment mounts. The cover provides the instrumentation with protection from impact as well as protection from contamination by environmental pollutants. On the inside of the cover, the shock sensitive equipment is seated on an island that is mounted by one or more soft vertical posts, which protect this equipment from shock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Assignee: Information Decision Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: John Franklin Ebersole, Jr., Mark Stanley Bastian
  • Patent number: 6866513
    Abstract: A fire simulator comprises fuel distribution means under a grating through which fuel emanating from the fuel distribution means can rise in use to create flames extending above the grating, wherein the grating includes a plurality of grating elements that together define a walkable working surface for a fire-fighter using the simulator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Assignee: Kidde IP Holdings Limited
    Inventor: Stephen John Hough
  • Patent number: 6802718
    Abstract: An enhanced deck for generating live fire simulations of fuel spill and chemical fires and the like, and includes a pit for receiving a volume of fluid, such as water, within which is mounted a fuel burner array. Gaseous or liquid fuel is delivered to the burner assembly under pressure, resulting in the expulsion of fuel into the liquid, where the fuel transforms into vapor and rises to the surface of the pit. A support surface structure is provided at the top of the pit flush to the ground level to permit vehicle movement. The fuel vapor is ignited at the support surface to generate a training fire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Assignee: Kidde Fire Trainers Inc.
    Inventors: Dominick J. Musto, Steven J. Williamson
  • Patent number: 6799975
    Abstract: A mobile confined space rescue training simulation unit having a simple adjustable modular construction that may be set up in any of a number of different confined space rescue scenarios to meet a variety of specialized training needs. The unit is preferably trailer-mounted for portability and has an elongated upper work area and two interior modular sections in communication with each other. The first section allows for establishing different labyrinths through which rescue trainees must travel, and the second section has a retractable sloping floor that may be replaced by simulated machinery such as a rotating shaft with blades. Multiple combinations of training rescue scenarios are possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2004
    Inventor: Michael L. Dunn
  • Publication number: 20040191736
    Abstract: A small mobile box, which simulates fire by producing a red or orange light, accompanied by sounds similar to that of a fire. Also integral to the device is a water activated shut-off switch. The device can be placed in a room of a structure, the room then filled with artificial smoke, and a fire fighter trainee can then search for the device in the structure. Once the device is found, the fire fighter can direct a hose stream onto the device, which will turn itself off.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2003
    Publication date: September 30, 2004
    Inventor: Walter John Werhun
  • Patent number: 6687910
    Abstract: A translucent shield (20) is provided for covering a self contained breathing apparatus mask faceplate (22) to simulate smoke. The shield consists of a die cut shape of thermoplastic sheet that duplicates the outline of the self contained breathing apparatus mask faceplate. The translucent shield has a light penetration density concentration simulating smoke in various grades or densities replicating, at the least, limited visibility, intermediate visibility and total engulfment. In order to preclude light penetration, the shape of the shield includes a peripheral overlap (32) onto the mask. A method of removably attaching the shield to the self contained breathing apparatus face mask is provided by the use of pressure sensitive tape (36) or hooks and loop tape (38). The invention simulates smoke which visually limits light transmission to a person wearing an apparatus face mask during training exercise procedures for firefighters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Inventor: Ronald F. Smallwood
  • Publication number: 20030198922
    Abstract: An enhanced deck for generating live fire simulations of fuel spill and chemical fires and the like, and includes a pit for receiving a volume of fluid, such as water, within which is mounted a fuel burner array. Gaseous or liquid fuel is delivered to the burner assembly under pressure, resulting in the expulsion of fuel into the liquid, where the fuel transforms into vapor and rises to the surface of the pit. A support surface structure is provided at the top of the pit flush to the ground level to permit vehicle movement. The fuel vapor is ignited at the support surface to generate a training fire.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2002
    Publication date: October 23, 2003
    Inventors: Dominick J. Musto, Steven J. Williamson
  • Publication number: 20030198923
    Abstract: A firefighter training building having a system of movable and removable partition walls for changing the interior floor plan layout of the building is disclosed. The system includes a plurality of tracks disposed above the movable walls and a plurality of movable and removable wall panels slidably mounted on the tracks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2002
    Publication date: October 23, 2003
    Inventor: Steven P. Westra
  • Patent number: 6616454
    Abstract: A method is presented for calculating a force to apply to components in a computer simulation to simulate the effect that an extinguishing agent stream (e.g., water or foam from a nozzle) should have on airflow in the vicinity of the stream, thereby affecting the movement of other components of the simulation. The method is designed to work in real-time as part of a virtual reality, augmented reality, or other real-time 3-D graphics simulation. In addition to the preferred embodiment of calculating forces to apply to a fire and smoke plume, the invention also contemplates calculation of a force to apply to aerosols and particles that are not part of a fire and smoke plume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: Information Decision Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: John Franklin Ebersole, Jr., Todd Joseph Furlong
  • Patent number: 6609913
    Abstract: An educational youth fireman helmet includes a scaled replication of a working fireman's helmet and is provided with a pivoting face visor, a pair of headlights controllable by the wearer, and a selectable voice messaging system providing recorded messages relating to fire safety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2003
    Inventor: Felix M. Batts
  • Publication number: 20030124496
    Abstract: A fire simulator comprises fuel distribution means (12) for fuelling flames in a fire simulation, the fuel distribution means being associated with fuel-heating means (9, 11) disposed generally beneath the fuel distribution means for applying the fuel distribution means heat that emanates from the flames in use, thereby promoting vaporisation of liquid fuel in the fuel distribution means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2002
    Publication date: July 3, 2003
    Inventor: Stephen John Hough