Fire Fighting Patents (Class 434/226)
  • Patent number: 6584445
    Abstract: A computerized health evaluation system for joint patient and physician decision making concerning particular medical diseases and conditions. The system includes a computer system with a patient input module for patient input of patient data concerning the patient's lifestyle and preferences, a physician input module for physician input of physical and physiological data, and a database of the latest medical findings concerning the particular disease and condition. The computer system uses an algorithm for weighing the patient data and the physician data in view of the database and generating a report setting forth various treatment options. Based upon the report, the patient and physician will jointly decide on a treatment approach.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Assignee: Computerized Health Evaluation Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Basil Papageorge
  • Publication number: 20030017438
    Abstract: Method and apparatus are presented for an augmented reality-based firefighter training system. The system includes hardware for motion tracking, display, and vari-nozzle instrumentation. System software includes a real-time fire model, a layered smoke obscuration model, simulation of an extinguishing agent, and an interface to a zone fire model. Physical modeling and graphical elements in the software combine to create realistic-looking fire, smoke, and extinguishing graphics. The hardware and software components together contribute to a realistic, interactive training experience for firefighters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2002
    Publication date: January 23, 2003
    Inventors: John Franklin Ebersole, Todd Joseph Furlong, John Franklin Ebersole
  • Publication number: 20030003430
    Abstract: Method and apparatus are presented for an augmented reality-based firefighter training system. The system includes hardware for motion tracking, display, and vari-nozzle instrumentation. System software includes a real-time fire model, a layered smoke obscuration model, simulation of an extinguishing agent, and an interface to a zone fire model. Physical modeling and graphical elements in the software combine to create realistic-looking fire, smoke, and extinguishing graphics. The hardware and software components together contribute to a realistic, interactive training experience for firefighters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2002
    Publication date: January 2, 2003
    Inventors: John Franklin Ebersole, Todd Joseph Furlong, John Franklin Ebersole
  • Patent number: 6500008
    Abstract: Method and apparatus are presented for an augmented reality-based firefighter training system. The system includes hardware for motion tracking, display, and vari-nozzle instrumentation. System software includes a real-time fire model, a layered smoke obscuration model, simulation of an extinguishing agent, and an interface to a zone fire model. Physical modeling and graphical elements in the software combine to create realistic-looking fire, smoke, and extinguishing graphics. The hardware and software components together contribute to a realistic, interactive training experience for firefighters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Assignee: Information Decision Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: John Franklin Ebersole, Todd Joseph Furlong, John Franklin Ebersole, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20020197591
    Abstract: Method and apparatus are presented for an augmented reality-based firefighter training system. The system includes hardware for motion tracking, display, and vari-nozzle instrumentation. System software includes a real-time fire model, a layered smoke obscuration model, simulation of an extinguishing agent, and an interface to a zone fire model. Physical modeling and graphical elements in the software combine to create realistic-looking fire, smoke, and extinguishing graphics. The hardware and software components together contribute to a realistic, interactive training experience for firefighters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2002
    Publication date: December 26, 2002
    Inventors: John Franklin Ebersole, Todd Joseph Furlong, John Franklin Ebersole
  • Publication number: 20020160343
    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: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2001
    Publication date: October 31, 2002
    Inventors: John Franklin Ebersole, Todd Joseph Furlong
  • Patent number: 6358057
    Abstract: A firefighter training device, for training a firefighter proper techniques for breaking and clearing a window, using a frame defining a framed space, a plurality of transparent impact resistant panels which are arranged coplanarly to fill the framed space, and a plurality of panel retaining assemblies which selectively hold the panels in position. Once the panels are formed into a window like configuration, the panels are struck, causing one of the panels to break away as the panel retaining assembly releases that panel. Then, the remaining panels are struck to cause those panels to break away and to simulate the proper action of clearing the window after it has been initially broken. Following the exercise, the panels are restored to the frame so that the exercise may be repeated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Inventor: Michael Bishop
  • Patent number: 6225914
    Abstract: The present invention proposes a voice device for a fire extinguisher. The voice device is installed on a fire extinguisher. The voice device comprises a power source, a control switch, a spring rocking switch, a capacitor, a voice IC, and a sound device. The spring rocking switch is connected to the power source. The voice IC is driven to output a specific signal when the spring rocking switch is on and electricity is conducted. The voice amplifying circuit receives the signal from the voice IC and outputs an amplified signal to the sound device for giving specific voices recorded in the voice IC. When the fire extinguisher is rocked, the voice device will automatically tell the user how to operate the fire extinguisher.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Hugewin Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Linsong Weng
  • Patent number: 6179620
    Abstract: A building model on a miniature scale is used for simulating the smoke propagation in case of fires in buildings. For cost-effective and graphic training, the building model has several chambers which are connected by means of closable doors with a central chamber. The central chamber has an access opening from the ventilator for generating pressure differences and/or air currents in the building model are provided. A transparent plate permits viewing the interior of the building model and the smoke propagation taking place in the course of the simulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Inventor: Bernd Schmid
  • Patent number: 6164972
    Abstract: An educational doll or action figure comprises the professional attire, tools and safety gear of a particular profession so as to give a child a hands-on learning experience regarding the requirements, responsibility and hazards involved in carrying out the profession. The educational doll or action figure preferably also includes a written, schematic and/or multimedia description of the attire, tools and safety gear of the profession so as to further the general knowledge of the child about the particular profession. The clothing, tools, safety gear and written description may be sold separately from the doll figure so as to allow the child to dress a single doll in a variety of professions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Inventor: Andrew R. Winslow
  • Patent number: 6155837
    Abstract: A device for simulation of fire for use during fire drills and similar exercises, includes one or more chambers, each of which is connected to one or more air tubes made of a flexible, preferably substantially gas-tight fabric, where the air tubes may be supplied with air through the chamber to which they are connected, and where movers are provided on the device to cause the air tubes to swing from side to side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Inventor: Kjell Korneliussen
  • Patent number: 6129552
    Abstract: The installation comprises a screen (1) of large size on which varying images are displayed representing a fire in a sequence under the control of a computer (9), the person (P) performing the exercise having available modified fire extinguisher devices (4) delivering a virtual jet whose point of impact on the screen (1) can be located, with corresponding information being transmitted to the computer (9). The person also has available associated devices (8) representing "influential" means liable to have an influence on the behavior of the fire, with handling thereof also causing information to be generated that is understood by the computer, and that is taken into account to cause the images displayed on the screen to vary accordingly. Equipment for fire-fighting, training and practice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Assignee: Technique-Pedagogie-Securite Equipements
    Inventors: Thierry Deshoux, Jacques Jaunasse, Marcel Seignard
  • Patent number: 6085585
    Abstract: In a sprinkler effectiveness testing system, a fire plume to simulate a burning warehouse commodity storage array is generated. The sprinkler system to be tested is suspended from an adjustable ceiling. Thermocouples measure the temperature of the fire gases under and adjacent to the ceiling. Collection pans are positioned to collect sprinkler water passing through the plume and to separately collect the sprinkler water passing around the plume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Assignee: Factory Mutual Research Corporation
    Inventors: Hong-Zeng Yu, Tak-Sang Chan, Hsiang-Cheng Kung, William R. Brown, Paraskevas Stavrianidis
  • Patent number: 6077081
    Abstract: A firefighting training apparatus is provided for simulating the pumping of water through various long lengths of hose to train firefighters to deliver a proper amount of water through the fire hose. The apparatus includes a disk having one or more apertures therethrough. The one or more apertures permit the passage of water through the disk while providing resistance to the water to simulate the resistance encounted by water flowing through a long length of fire hose. The firefighting training apparatus is used by placing the disk within the flow of water through the fire hose. A firefighter can practice delivering a proper amount of water through a fire hose to a nozzle without the need of using a long length of fire hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Inventor: John B. Dunn
  • Patent number: 6048208
    Abstract: An electrical service simulator includes four hinged panels that are movable between a storage position and an operational position. In the storage position the panels are arranged as a rectangle, while in the operational position the panels provide a free-standing display of multiple electrical service fixtures such as electrical service meters. An electrical supply system is connected to some of the meter service fixtures to power the fixtures during a training exercise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2000
    Assignee: Commonwealth Edison Company
    Inventor: Robert A. Hoover
  • Patent number: 5927990
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for training firefighters. The apparatus is uniquely designed to realistically simulate both the precursor indications of the flashover phenomena as well as flashover phenomenon itself. Because the trainees are positioned within the apparatus, the first hand training method of the invention teaches the trainee, not only how to recognize the warning signs of flashovers, but also teaches the trainee what follows these warning signs and what to do if confronted with the warning signs. The training apparatus of the invention is of a simple but durable construction which provides a high degree of safety to the trainees and is one which can be provided to fire departments at relatively low cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1999
    Inventors: Mike Welch, Mike Dingillo
  • Patent number: 5920492
    Abstract: A method of using a computer to provide display data representing a fire. The data is derived from fire model data, so that the fire is realistically displayed with the dynamics of a real fire. Particles are generated from the model data and given location values and other parameters. Each particle becomes a display data element by virtue of being assigned a graphics primitive. The data elements are culled according to a field of view and sorted, so that they may be used for real time display rendering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1999
    Assignee: Southwest Research Institute
    Inventors: Bruce C. Montag, Stephen D. Huffman, Denise C. Varner
  • Patent number: 5906493
    Abstract: A training device, for mounting to a standard door having a cutout at middle height, the door mounted in a door frame having a strike plate at middle height. A sliding box is mounted in the cutout for slidable motion toward and away from the strike plate. At least one spring is mounted between the sliding box and the cutout for biasing the sliding box toward the strike plate. The spring is selected to resist compression and thus motion of the sliding box away from the strike plate. The amount of resistance that the spring provides is equivalent to the amount of resistance presented by a doorknob and locking assembly on standard doors. Thus, a crowbar-like tool may be used to pry the sliding box away from the strike plate to open the door and simulate the force and action necessary to pry open any standard door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1999
    Inventor: Michael Bishop
  • Patent number: 5888072
    Abstract: A fire fighting trainer is provided for use in training firefighters comprising a series of lower profile burner tray assemblies which are fully self-contained for holding water which shields the tray structure from the high temperatures generated during the training exercise. A distribution system is provided to distribute and diffuse the propane above the water with a pilot igniting system for igniting the propane. The tray assemblies are covered by a metal netting which further shields them from the elevated temperatures and provides a walking surface over which personnel can advance during a training exercise. The low profile enhances the realism of the fuel spill fire and minimizes any hazards resulting from tripping on the surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1999
    Assignee: Symtron Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Dominick J. Musto, Steven C. Luftig
  • Patent number: 5846085
    Abstract: Firefighter training device for limiting a trainee's vision and simulating firefighting conditions across a trainee's field of view. The device includes a view-limiting simulation mask which is worn by a trainee (e.g., respirator mask, glasses, or goggles). The mask houses a voltage controlled liquid crystal (LC) lens system, either single or multi-layered, which is divided into various individually and electronically controllable segments. Host dyes might be injected into LC materials to produce colors in the lens segments. Pre-programmed and random pattern control of lens segments occludes the trainee's vision and simulates smoke and/or fires. Sound and strobes might be added to simulate explosions and other firefighting conditions. A transmitter, which includes switchable controls, can be used to send control signals to the mask. The training device can effectively be used indoors or outdoors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1998
    Assignee: Flameco, Inc.
    Inventor: Frank A. Witt, III
  • Patent number: 5823784
    Abstract: A fire fighting simulator includes a projector to project an image of a fire on a screen and a shutter assembly to occlude portions of the image. The extinguishing agent is simulated by an infrared beam and the shutter assembly is controlled to occlude portions at locations impinged by the beam. The control also polls each element of the shutter assembly periodically and opens the elements selectively to simulate reflash of the fire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1998
    Inventor: Kerry S. Lane
  • Patent number: 5807114
    Abstract: A virtual reality system provides effective exposure treatment for psychiatric patients suffering from a particular anxiety disorder. The system is characterized by a video screen disposed in front of the patient to display an image of a specific graphical environment that is intended to trigger anxiety within the patient as a result of the particular patient phobia. A headset is worn by the patient, and has sensors disposed to detect movement and positioning of the patient's head. A computer program controls the operation of the system, and is designed to control the display of the graphical environment on the video screen, monitor the headset sensors and determine the position of the patient's head, and controllably manipulate the graphical environment displayed on the video screen to reflect the movement and position of the patient's head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Assignee: Emory University and Georgia Tech Research Corporation
    Inventors: Larry F. Hodges, Barbara O. Rothbaum
  • Patent number: 5752835
    Abstract: A mobile fire fighting training facility (10) that can be easily transported to a training site and that more realistically simulates an actual fire is disclosed. The fire training facility includes a mobile housing (12) having a plurality of exterior walls (18,20,22,24,26) and an interior chamber 28, fire generating means (32) coupled with the housing for generating a fire in the interior chamber of the housing, and a plurality of foldable extension panels (50,52,54) attached to the exterior of the housing. The outer surface of each foldable panel resembles a portion of the exterior or facade of a stationary building such as a house. The foldable panels are shiftable between folded, transport positions wherein the panels overlie a portion of exterior walls of the housing and extended, use positions wherein the panels are positioned adjacent to and substantially coplanar with one of the exterior walls of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1998
    Inventor: Michael A. Whitmer, Sr.
  • Patent number: 5700142
    Abstract: A liquid pilot assembly for use in an outdoor fuel spill fire fighting trainer is provided. This assembly includes a spark plug igniter unit, a liquid fuel system, an air distribution system, a housing enclosing the components and a vaporization subassembly disposed within the housing for changing liquid fuel to vapor fuel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 23, 1997
    Assignee: Symtron Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Miller, Don Brady, Steven Williamson, Steven Luftig, Dominick Musto
  • Patent number: 5700141
    Abstract: An ignitor unit for an aircraft fuel spill simulator having an ignitor sparkplug without an air gap, a closed end cylinder having a top end wall with a hole receiving the ignitor sparkplug and having a peripheral wall with an inlet branch connection, a fuel line having an orifice element with a plurality of outlet holes disposed near to the ignitor spark plug, and an air line having an outlet orifice disposed adjacent to the ignitor sparkplug for allowing the blowing of air on the outlet orifice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 23, 1997
    Assignee: Symtron Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Miller, Don Brady, Steven Williamson, Steven Luftig, Dominick Musto
  • Patent number: 5688136
    Abstract: A fire fighting trainer is provided for use in training fire fighters and passenger rescuers during aircraft simulated cabin fires and simulated landing gear fires and during simulated oil spill module fires. The trainer includes a mockup aircraft, a mockup fuel spill module, a liquid fuel and vapor fuel supply system, and a fire control system. A method of training fire fighters and passenger rescuers is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1997
    Assignee: Symtron Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: William Rogers, Dominick Musto, Steven Luftig, David Joynt
  • Patent number: 5679003
    Abstract: A simulator for training emergency response personnel in handling hazardous materials leaks includes a housing with a door. A cylinder, of a type used to contain a hazardous material, is within the housing and has a leak hole intentionally made therein. The cylinder includes a standard outlet valve, a regulator and a hose connected to the housing. In addition, the cylinder has been modified with a first fitting through which air can be introduced and a second fitting through which water can be introduced. Conduits are provided to supply air and water to the first and second fittings, respectively, in order to force air and/or water into the cylinder and exit through the hole to simulate a hazardous materials leak. A fog generator produces fog within the housing to simulate a gas haze of a material leak. Electrical devices normally found in housing for these cylinders also can be provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 21, 1997
    Assignee: Miller Brewing Company
    Inventor: Donald J. Schwechel
  • Patent number: 5660549
    Abstract: Firefighter training device for limiting a trainee's vision and simulating firefighting conditions across a trainee's field of view. The device includes a view-limiting simulation mask which is worn by a trainee (e.g., respirator mask, glasses, or goggles). The mask houses a voltage controlled liquid crystal (LC) lens system, either single or multi-layered, which is divided into various individually and electronically controllable segments. Host dyes might be injected into LC materials to produce colors in the lens segments. Pre-programmed and random pattern control of lens segments occludes the trainee's vision and simulates smoke and/or fires. Sound and strobes might be added to simulate explosions and other firefighting conditions. A transmitter, which includes switchable controls, can be used to send control signals to the mask. The training device can effectively be used indoors or outdoors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 26, 1997
    Assignee: Flameco, Inc.
    Inventor: Frank A. Witt, III
  • Patent number: 5562455
    Abstract: A hazardous materials training cylinder comprising: a main housing unit having an essentially hollow interior and a top including a plurality of smoke vent holes and a nozzle, a control panel including plurality of control knobs and an intake panel having a plurality of connection ports being affixed to the main housing unit, a gas hose and valve and a liquid hose and valve being coupled to the gas and liquid ports, a smoke generator device having an output hose coupled to the smoke connection port; gas and liquid distribution tubes being operatively coupled to the control panel, a smoke conduit having an upper end affixed around the smoke vent holes and a lower end coupled to the smoke intake port, a smoke control hose operatively coupling the control panel and smoke conduit, a plurality of gas and liquid supply hoses coupling the connection ports, gas and liquid distribution tubes, and nozzle together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1996
    Inventors: James Kirby, Cathy Kirby
  • Patent number: 5554031
    Abstract: In a preferred embodiment, a method of training a child for reporting an emergency on a telephone system of the type having an emergency access code, the method including: providing controllable memory apparatus in which at least one training scenario is recorded; providing a first telephone coupled to the controllable memory apparatus; providing a controller coupled to the controllable memory apparatus to cue selected portions of the recorded training scenario to transmit the same to the earpiece of the first telephone; having a child dial the emergency access code on the first telephone; and cuing successive selected portions of the recorded training scenario to elicit answers from the child, over the first telephone, to questions asked in the selected portions, such answers being of the type required by an emergency dispatcher to at least ascertain the location of the emergency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 10, 1996
    Assignee: Retina Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Graydon E. Moir, Floyd W. Moir, Karl Cressotti
  • Patent number: 5518403
    Abstract: A fire fighting trainer for use in training fire fighters about a ceiling rollover fire. This trainer includes a chamber with a ceiling and includes a burner head subassembly and includes a burner control subassembly. The burner head subassembly has a fuel gas inlet pipe and an adjacent combustion air inlet pipe to produce an air/gas mixture which creates a flame at the ceiling. The burner control subassembly selectively increases the fuel gas flow to make the produced flame have a ceiling rollover effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1996
    Assignee: Symtron Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven Luftig, James Ernst, Patrick Connelly, Steven Williamson
  • Patent number: 5518402
    Abstract: The present invention is a fire fighter trainer. The fire fighter trainer is used to train fire fighters to extinguish a simulated fire scenario. The fire fighter trainer includes a burner assembly for providing fire and a mechanism for detecting application of fire suppressant, suppressing agent or surrogate suppressing agent. The detecting mechanism is disposed adjacent to the burner assembly, such as below it. The fire fighter trainer also includes a control system for controlling the burner depending on a signal from the detecting mechanism. The control system also comprises a mechanism for determining if a burning object simulated by the burner assembly would reignite based on application of fire suppressing agent and parameters defining a simulated burning object. The control system is in communication with the detecting mechanism and the burner assembly. Preferably, there is a mechanism for reigniting the burner assembly based on an output of the determining mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1996
    Assignee: Contraves, Inc.
    Inventors: Domenic A. Tommarello, Walter Sobkiw
  • Patent number: 5509807
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for igniting and maintaining a simulated training fire for the purpose of teaching individuals to combat, contain and extinguish various classes, signatures and intensities of fires. More specifically, the present invention relates to a pilot flame ignition apparatus for use with a combustion tank, to provide a substantially inextinguishable pilot flame during and subsequent to the presence of a conflagration in the tank, the pilot flame being substantially impervious to the ingress of fire fighting agents into the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 23, 1996
    Assignee: CanCode Safety Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary T. C. Joice, Graham A. Huxley
  • Patent number: 5460228
    Abstract: A fire extinguisher is provided with a voice synthesizer attached thereto that is activated by a position sensitive switch such that upon the fire extinguisher being tilted the voice synthesizer broadcasts instructions on use of the fire extinguisher. The voice synthesizer may be activated in response to other situation sensitive sensors to produce messages appropriate to the situation sensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 24, 1995
    Inventor: Marty Butler
  • Patent number: 5447437
    Abstract: A portable firefighting training system is provided that is useful in educating people as to proper firefighting procedures using self-contained supplies of fire extinguishing agents such as fire extinguishers and the like. Class A, B or C fires can be simulated through the use of a portable burner assembly and interchangeable mock-ups simulating burning structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 5, 1995
    Inventors: David M. Joynt, Robert F. Debrody, Eddis M. Phillips, August A. Zachmeier, Donald C. Wright
  • Patent number: 5433612
    Abstract: An electronic accountability apparatus for use by an incident manager in the timing and tracking of multiple teams of personnel and equipment, such as in a fire fighting operation. The apparatus includes a timing system for tracking and selecting active teams and timing their task times, including monitoring the use of supplementary breathing apparatus as required. The apparatus also includes a tracking system to monitor the movement of active teams through various zones of a building, including the ability to determine the hazardous or hot zones, the current location of active teams, and the past locations of current teams. The data that is generated from the above "events" such as active team assignments, time in intervals, zone movement etc. are all stored in the battery backed up RAM that can be downloaded to a personnel computer to provide a complete history of the operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1995
    Assignee: Commandl Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Hartley Daku
  • Patent number: 5415551
    Abstract: A mobile firefighter trainer and method are disclosed for use in training and evaluating firefighters in the extinguishment of simulated aircraft fuel fires. The trainer include a trailer body in the shape of a simulated aircraft, a fuel distribution and burner system, and a central control means connected to the fuel distribution and burner system. The trainer and method allow for use of actual fire in a predetermined manner which fire is controlled and environmentally safe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 16, 1995
    Assignee: R.sup.2
    Inventor: Dirk A. Semenza
  • Patent number: 5411397
    Abstract: A fire fighting trainer for use in training fire fighters to extinguish jet crash fuel fires and the like, the trainer includes a supply pipe and control valve, a distribution pipe with holes, an open tank with a diffuser being a mixture of water and gravel within which the distribution pipe is disposed, so that liquid propane jets out from the holes, then passes as vapor bubbles to the diffuser surface, then collects as propane vapor on the surface, and a gas pilot flame device for lighting the propane vapor to form flames on the diffuser surface. The simulated flames look very similar to jet crash liquid fuel flames.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 2, 1995
    Assignee: Symtron Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: William Rogers, James J. Ernst, Steven Williamson, Dominick J. Musto
  • Patent number: 5374191
    Abstract: An enhanced deck for generating live fire simulations of fuel spill and chemical fires and the like includes a receptacle 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 receptacle. A support surface such as a metal grating or other rigid temperature resistant structure is provided at the upper end of the liquid receptacle and is at least partially immersed in the liquid so as to be in heat transfer relationship with the support surface. The fuel vapor is ignited at the support surface to generate a training fire. Preferably, a flow of liquid is provided to the receptacle to replace liquid that evaporates from the heat of combustion to maintain the support surface at or below a predetermined temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 20, 1994
    Assignee: AAI Corporation
    Inventors: Edward G. Herman, Fred W. Arbogast, John C. Pershina
  • Patent number: 5345830
    Abstract: A fire fighting trainer for use in training fire fighters is provided. The fire fighting trainer includes a structure having a plurality of chambers having concrete or grating floors. Each chamber contains one or a series of real or simulated items, which are chosen from a group of items, such as furniture and fixtures and equipment. The trainer also includes a smoke generating system having a smoke generator having a smoke line with an outlet for each chamber. The trainer also includes a propane gas flame generating system having at least one propane gas pressure controller and a gas line with a burner control and one or more single element or multi-element burners for each chamber. The trainer has a main control panel for regulating the flame generating system and the smoke generating system and for controlling the fire, or fires, and smoke in each chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 13, 1994
    Assignee: Symtron Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: William Rogers, James J. Ernst, Steven Williamson, Dominick J. Musto
  • Patent number: 5335559
    Abstract: A fire fighting trainer for use in training fire fighters is provided. The fire fighting trainer includes a structure having a plurality of chambers having concrete or grating floors. Each chamber contains one or a series of real or simulated items, which are chosen from a group of items, such as furniture and fixtures and equipment. The trainer also includes a smoke generating system having a smoke generator having a smoke line with an outlet for each chamber. The trainer also includes a propane gas flame generating system having at least one propane gas pressure controller and a gas line with a burner control and one or more single element or multi-element burners for each chamber. The trainer has a main control panel for regulating the flame generating system and the smoke generating system and for controlling the fire, or fires, and smoke in each chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 9, 1994
    Assignee: Symtron Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: William Rogers, James J. Ernst, Steven Williamson, Dominick J. Musto
  • Patent number: 5328375
    Abstract: A fire fighting trainer for use in training fire fighters is provided. The fire fighting trainer includes a structure having a plurality of chambers having concrete or grating floors. Each chamber contains one or a series of real or simulated items, which are chosen from a group of items, such as furniture and fixtures and equipment. The trainer also includes a smoke generating system having a smoke generator having a smoke line with an outlet for each chamber. The trainer also includes a propane gas flame generating system having at least one propane gas pressure controller and a gas line with a burner control and one or more single element or multi-element burners for each chamber. The trainer has a main control panel for regulating the flame generating system and the smoke generating system and for controlling the fire, or fires, and smoke in each chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 12, 1994
    Assignee: Symtron Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: William Rogers, James J. Ernst, Steven Williamson, Domnick J. Musto
  • Patent number: 5320536
    Abstract: A fire fighting trainer for use in training fire fighters is provided. The fire fighting trainer includes a structure having a plurality of chambers having concrete or grating floors. Each chamber contains one or a series of real or simulated items, which are chosen from a group of items, such as furniture and fixtures and equipment. The trainer also includes a smoke generating system having a smoke generator having a smoke line with an outlet for each chamber. The trainer also includes a propane gas flame generating system having at least one propane gas pressure controller and a gas line with a burner control and one or more single element or multi-element burners for each chamber. The trainer has a main control panel for regulating the flame generating system and the smoke generating system and for controlling the fire, or fires, and smoke in each chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 14, 1994
    Assignee: Symtron Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: William Rogers, James J. Ernst, Steven Williamson, Dominick J. Musto
  • Patent number: 5316484
    Abstract: A system and method is disclosed for providing a simulation of a flashover condition that can occur during the course of suppression of a live fire. The flashover simulation is implemented by selectively supplying and igniting fuel to an auxiliary or flashover fuel burner assembly positioned adjacent the ceiling of the burn room of a firefighter trainer. Preferably, the flashover simulation is implementable only upon attainment of a threshold value of one or more pre-selected trainer operational parameters that are monitored throughout the course of a training scenario. Preferred trainer operational parameters for such monitoring include flame height at a main burner assembly and air temperature adjacent to or near a ceiling portion of the burn room.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 31, 1994
    Assignee: AAI Corporation
    Inventors: Mark R. Layton, Ramon L. Palmer, Jr., Lester L. Smith
  • Patent number: 5275571
    Abstract: A portable fire trainer for use in training by an instructor of a company employee in the use of a fire extinguisher for extinguishing a Class A trash can paper fire or a Class B spilled combustible liquid fire or a Class C electrical panel fire. The trainer includes a housing subassembly, and includes an equipment subassembly which has a burnable simulated multifire array of items and which has a flame generating and distributing system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 4, 1994
    Assignee: Symtron Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Dominick J. Musto, William Rogers, Thomas J. Lynch, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5266033
    Abstract: A fire fighting trainer for use in training fire fighters is provided. The fire fighting trainer includes a structure having one or more chambers. Each chamber contains real or simulated items, which are chosen from a group of items, such as furniture and fixtures and equipment. The trainer includes fire and smoke generating apparatus and sensors to determine what extinguishing agent is being utilized to extinguish the fire which are connected to the control panel. The sensor for foam includes a sonic beam sensing device. The fire and smoke apparatus and the sensors are connected to an apparatus for controlling the fire and smoke and recording the actions of the fire fighters utilizing the trainer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1993
    Assignee: Symtron Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: William Rogers, James J. Ernst, Steven Williamson, Dominick J. Musto
  • Patent number: 5233869
    Abstract: A fire fighting trainer for use in training fire fighters is provided. The fire fighting trainer includes a structure having one or more chambers having concrete or grating floors. Each chamber contains one or a series of real or simulated items such as furniture and fixtures and equipment. The trainer has a smoke generating system with an outlet for each chamber. The trainer also includes a propane gas flame generating system. The trainer has a main control panel for regulating the flame generating system and the smoke generating system and for controlling the fire, or fires, and smoke in each chamber. The trainer also has a sensor assembly in each chamber, which senses water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1993
    Assignee: Symtron Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: William Rogers, James J. Ernst, Steven Williamson, Dominick J. Musto
  • Patent number: 5226818
    Abstract: A system and method is disclosed for providing control of a fuel-operable burner assembly of a firefighter trainer in accordance with a sensed environmental parameter such as the temperature of an object such as a metal grating or prop that is positioned adjacent to the burner assembly. The control system and method are particularly advantageous to simulate fire reflash following substantial extinguishment of the fire, as operational parameters such as the rate of flame growth, maximum flame height, and reflash delay can be selected and varied from one scenario to the other to modify the training scenario in accordance with such factors as trainee proficiency and the type or class of fire. Burner control is preferably accomplished by an automated processing system in accordance with the foregoing environmental and operational parameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1993
    Assignee: AAI Corporation
    Inventors: Douglas H. Feiock, Mark R. Layton, Lester L. Smith, Ramon L. Palmer, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5219290
    Abstract: A tool for use by an incident commander for organizing, deploying and managing resource units assigned by the commander in a incident control operation. A carrying case including a variety of graphic displays and movable tags identifying regional resources. A first graphic contains the tags of potentially available resources for that operation. A second graphic to which the tags are moved upon the resources represented by the tags being assigned to that operation. A third graphic to which the tags are moved to identify tasks assigned to the specific units.Additional graphic displays provide expansion of the incident organization determined by the size and severity of the incident. Graphic displays are segregated by area responsibility such as medical, finance, etc. A command graphic enables the expansion of the chain of command. In all cases, individuals having supervisory or management responsibility are identified and positioned within the chain of command.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1993
    Inventors: Philip W. Lapp, John E. Bartlett
  • Patent number: 5203707
    Abstract: A modular fire fighter trainer for use in training fire fighters. This trainer includes at least one training subassembly or module having a training room with one or more simulated burnable items and having an equipment room with a burner control and a smoke generator, and includes a second control subassembly having a control room with a control panel connecting to the burner control and the smoke generator and includes a third interconnect subassembly having a hallway connecting to the training room and having an exterior doorway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1993
    Inventors: Dominick J. Musto, William Rogers, James J. Ernst