Plural Source, Mixing In Transit Patents (Class 169/14)
  • Patent number: 11992717
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a chassis, a body coupled to the chassis, a series of tractive elements coupled to the chassis, a hazard coupled to the chassis, and a fire suppression system. The fire suppression system includes a tank configured to contain a volume of fire suppressant, a nozzle having an outlet at least selectively fluidly coupled to the tank and configured to release a spray of the fire suppressant therefrom, and an activator configured to selectively release the fire suppressant from the tank such that at least a portion of the fire suppressant passes through the outlet of the nozzle. The nozzle is oriented such that the spray is directed toward the hazard. The nozzle is positioned less than 8 inches away from the hazard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2024
    Assignee: Tyco Fire Products LP
    Inventor: Chad L. Ryczek
  • Patent number: 11833481
    Abstract: The present disclosure includes mixing apparatuses comprising a first conduit defining an inlet channel, a second conduit defining an outlet channel, and an injection assembly that is disposed between the first and second conduits. The injection assembly can comprise two or more mixers, each having a reducer conduit that defines a mixing channel and an expander conduit that defines an expanding channel. The injection assembly can also comprise a first injection conduit configured to inject fluid into the mixing channel. At least one of the mixers can comprise a shut-off valve movable from an open position to a closed position in which the shut-off valve prevents fluid from flowing from the mixer to the second conduit. Closing the shut-off valve can increase the fluid flow rate in at least one other of the mixing channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2023
    Assignee: PRODUCED WATER ABSORBENTS INC.
    Inventors: John Sabey, William Jagers, Yuecun Lou, Vu Phung
  • Patent number: 11826597
    Abstract: The present application provides water-enhancing, fire-suppressing hydrogels that are formulated to minimize toxicity and negative environmental impact. The present application provides a composition comprising: (i) at least one thickening agent; (ii) at least one liquid medium; and, optionally, (iii) one or more suspending agents, wherein the composition consists of >75%, by weight, consumer-grade components and wherein the composition is a concentrate that can be mixed with water or an aqueous solution to form a fire-suppressing, water-enhancing hydrogel. Each of the at least one thickening agent, suspending agent and liquid medium can be non-toxic and biodegradable. Also provided are the fire-suppressing, water-enhancing hydrogel and methods of production and use thereof during fire fighting or fire prevention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2022
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2023
    Assignee: FIREREIN INC.
    Inventors: Brian Ernest Mariampillai, Yun Yang
  • Patent number: 11517527
    Abstract: A medical device for making foam includes a syringe having a plunger for dispensing a liquid from a liquid dispensing port, and a mixing chamber including a mixing chamber inlet, a mixing chamber outlet, a liquid flow channel extending between the mixing chamber inlet and the mixing chamber outlet, and a gas inlet channel that intersects with the liquid flow channel. The system has a gas cartridge containing the gas, a first gas conduit connected with the syringe, and a second gas conduit connected with the gas inlet channel. An actuator is coupled with the gas cartridge for releasing the gas into the first and second gas conduits. The released gas in the first gas conduit forces the plunger toward the liquid dispensing port for dispensing the liquid from the liquid dispensing port and into the liquid flow channel while the released gas in the second gas conduit flows into the gas inlet channel of the mixing chamber for mixing with the liquid in the liquid flow channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2022
    Assignee: Ethicon, Inc.
    Inventors: Nicole Smith, Michael Cardinale
  • Patent number: 11484738
    Abstract: An integrated operator interface for a fire suppression system is provided. The fire suppression system includes an engine, a water source, a water pump, a foam system and a compressed air system. The integrated operator interface includes a control panel including a plurality of one-touch activation controls. Each one-touch activation control is configured to cause the output of a predetermined fire suppression fluid from the fire suppression system and cause a predetermined increase in engine speed resulting in an associated increase in water pump pressure. The predetermined fire suppression fluid comprising a predetermined flow of water, a predetermined type of foamant, a predetermined concentration of the predetermined type of foamant, and a predetermined flow of compressed air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2022
    Assignee: HALE PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Michael A. Laskaris, Alan Smith
  • Patent number: 11484741
    Abstract: The present application provides water-enhancing, fire-suppressing hydrogels that are formulated to minimize toxicity and negative environmental impact. The present application provides a composition comprising: (i) at least one thickening agent; (ii) at least one liquid medium; and, optionally, (iii) one or more suspending agents, wherein the composition consists of >75%, by weight, consumer-grade components and wherein the composition is a concentrate that can be mixed with water or an aqueous solution to form a fire-suppressing, water-enhancing hydrogel. Each of the at least one thickening agent, suspending agent and liquid medium can be non-toxic and biodegradable. Also provided are the fire-suppressing, water-enhancing hydrogel and methods of production and use thereof during fire fighting or fire prevention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2022
    Assignee: FIREREIN INC.
    Inventors: Brian Ernest Mariampillai, Yun Yang
  • Patent number: 11095719
    Abstract: An improved system on a transit vehicle is described for coordinated mediation action in response to an identified environmental anomaly on a shipping container transported by the vehicle. The system has wirelessly broadcasting ID nodes at different locations within the container, and a fire suppression system on the vehicle having a wireless transceiver-based controller operating as a master node that can cause the suppression system to deliver fire suppressant material to the container using a delivery nozzle and pump. The controller, as master node, is configured to operate as a primary monitor for the anomaly by being operative to monitor ID node signals; identify the anomaly based on the signals; generate a layered alert notification related to the anomaly (identifying a targeted mediation action and establishes a mediation response priority); and initiate a mediation response by the suppression system related to the targeted mediation action and the mediation response priority.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2021
    Assignee: FEDEX CORPORATE SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Ole-Petter Skaaksrud
  • Patent number: 11045775
    Abstract: A system for mixing a liquid with a powder into a solution batch includes a hopper (20) into which said powder is deposited, the hopper (20) having a powder outlet (22) therein. A mix tank (60) is also provided having a liquid supply inlet (62), a recirculation inlet (64), and a solution outlet (66). A mix pump (40) that is in fluid communication with the solution outlet (66), the powder outlet (22), and the recirculation inlet (64) operates to mix and transfer the solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2021
    Assignee: Isopure, Corp.
    Inventors: Kevin C. Gillespie, Zachary Patrick Ford, Guillermo J. Cohen Freue
  • Patent number: 10946227
    Abstract: A wet pipe fire protection sprinkler system and method of operating a wet pipe fire sprinkler system includes providing a sprinkler system having a pipe network, a source of water for the pipe network, at least one sprinkler head connected with the pipe network and a drain valve for draining the pipe network. An inert gas source, such as a nitrogen gas source, is connected with the pipe network. Inert gas is supplied from the inert gas source to the pipe network. Water is supplied to the pipe network thereby substantially filling the pipe network with water and compressing the inert gas in the pipe network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2021
    Assignee: Engineered Corrosion Solutions, LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey T. Kochelek
  • Patent number: 10759259
    Abstract: Various embodiments include a combined cooling and extinguishing system for a motor vehicle, the system comprising: a cooling system circulating carbon dioxide as a coolant, the cooling system including a compressor, an evaporator, an expansion valve; and a condenser; an extinguishing system including a pressure vessel storing compressed CO2; and a control valve connected to the pressure vessel and to the cooling system. The control valve includes a first setting to supply CO2 from the pressure vessel to the cooling system and a second setting to supply CO2 from the cooling system to the pressure vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2020
    Assignee: VITESCO TECHNOLOGIES GMBH
    Inventors: Christoph Baumgärtner, Joris Fokkelman
  • Patent number: 10755552
    Abstract: An improved system on a transit vehicle is described for coordinated mediation action in response to an identified environmental anomaly on a shipping container transported by the vehicle. The system has wirelessly broadcasting ID nodes at different locations within the container, and a fire suppression system on the vehicle having a wireless transceiver-based controller operating as a master node that can cause the suppression system to deliver fire suppressant material to the container using a delivery nozzle and pump. The controller, as master node, is configured to operate as a primary monitor for the anomaly by being operative to monitor ID node signals; identify the anomaly based on the signals; generate a layered alert notification related to the anomaly (identifying a targeted mediation action and establishes a mediation response priority); and initiate a mediation response by the suppression system related to the targeted mediation action and the mediation response priority.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2020
    Assignee: FEDEX CORPORATE SERVICES, INC.
    Inventor: Ole-Petter Skaaksrud
  • Patent number: 10493305
    Abstract: A system for delivery of a fire extinguishing agent includes an agent tank at least partially filled with a volume of liquid fire extinguishing agent and a supply of pressurizing gas operatively connected to inject pressurizing gas into the volume of liquid agent. A discharge valve is configured to open when the agent tank reaches a desired pressure due to the injection of pressurizing gas therein thereby delivering a flow including fire extinguishing agent with associated dissolved pressurizing gas from the agent tank. The flow of fire extinguishing agent and associated dissolved pressurizing gas is discharged from the agent tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2019
    Assignee: UTC FIRE & SECURITY CORPORATION
    Inventor: Joseph Senecal
  • Patent number: 10463037
    Abstract: A fluid sprayer includes a tank containing fluid therein and a rotary atomizer in communication with the tank to receive fluid therefrom and to atomize the fluid. The fluid sprayer also includes a blower assembly positioned upstream of the rotary atomizer for dispersing the atomized fluid from the rotary atomizer into the surroundings of the fluid sprayer and a discharge chute positioned downstream of the blower assembly into which the atomized fluid from the rotary atomizer is sprayed before being discharged upward and into the surroundings of the fluid sprayer. The rotary atomizer includes a plurality of fan blades coupled to a hub. The fan blades are operable to impart rotation to the hub in response to an airflow generated by the blower assembly flowing around the fan blades.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2019
    Assignee: CLARKE MOSQUITO CONTROL PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Frank Clarke, Grifith Lizarraga, Daniel Fachet
  • Patent number: 10232205
    Abstract: A multi-directional fire extinguishing nozzle is disclosed. The multi-directional fire extinguishing nozzle may comprise a pylon fitting configured to receive a fire extinguishing agent. The multi-directional fire extinguishing nozzle may comprise a hose fitting coupled to the pylon fitting via a coupling nut. The multi-directional fire extinguishing nozzle may comprise a plurality of fluid distribution outlets configured to deliver the fire extinguishing agent. The fluid distribution outlets may define voids on the surface of the coupling nut, and extending through the coupling nut and the hose fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2019
    Assignee: UNITED TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATION
    Inventors: James L. Lucas, Steven C. Lee
  • Patent number: 10207133
    Abstract: A smart fluid application nozzle consisting of an optical based event locating system, a multi-port nozzle block, and a port switching mechanism is disclosed by the present application. The smart nozzle utilizes a unique arrangement of discharge ports, allowing the angle of the discharge agent to be controlled without moving the nozzle housing. Multiple ports are activated per event to create a uniform fluid distribution within the discharging jet while controlling the discharge angle, which cannot be achieved through a single port discharge. Upon receiving a detection signal, the event locating system determines the spatial location of the event region and activates the appropriate discharge ports, thereby directing agent toward the event zone and applying fluid while minimizing damage to nearby areas. The use of the system may be used wherever the precise directed application of as fluid is desired including, fire suppression.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Assignee: ESI Energy Solutions, LLC.
    Inventor: Peter Disimile
  • Patent number: 10160908
    Abstract: Method of soil conditioning which consists in applying a water-soluble or water-swelling polymer to the soil, characterized in that: the polymer is prepared as a polymer-concentrated liquid, the preparation of obtained in this way is applied to the surface of a support rotating about its axis of revolution in order to form droplets which are spread on the soil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2018
    Assignee: S.P.C.M. SA
    Inventor: Charles Lecointe
  • Patent number: 10046185
    Abstract: A method for fire and smoke prevention, suppression or extinction using a composition having sodium polyacrylate and distilled water, wherein the ratio of sodium polyacrylate to distilled water is about 1 to 200, having the step of placing the composition in the path of the fire or smoke.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2018
    Inventors: Nicholas A. Perez, Henry Modregon, Leslie M. Perez
  • Patent number: 9987509
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a pressure controller and a method for monitoring and controlling the pressure level in a fire protection piping network maintained under vacuum pressure and for detecting a positive pressure variation in the network. The rate of pressure increase is used to detect the opening of a sprinkler head in the sprinkler piping network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2018
    Assignee: Systèmes Fireflex Inc.
    Inventors: Jean-Pierre Asselin, Sylvain Coupal, Frédéric Lachance, Jonathan Roger
  • Patent number: 9968810
    Abstract: The system includes an intake assembly upstream of a pump within the bucket which selectively uses an outer port for drawing water outside of the bucket into the system and an inner port for drawing water from within the bucket into the system. A polymer gel port is interposed between the intake assembly and the pump for combination, mixing and activation of a water and polymer gel emulsion combination within the pump. A fill assembly is provided downstream of the pump which can selectively direct water back into the bucket. A discharge assembly is also provided downstream of the pump which leads to a nozzle or other outlet for water and/or polymer gel emulsion from the system. A control valve selects between delivery of water and/or polymer gel emulsion back into the bucket through the fill assembly or out of the bucket through the discharge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2018
    Inventor: Leonard E. Doten
  • Patent number: 9717938
    Abstract: A sodium polyacrylate and distilled water composition for fire and smoke prevention, suppression or extinction, and methods of making and using the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2017
    Inventors: Nicholas A. Perez, Henry Modregon, Leslie M. Perez
  • Patent number: 9713582
    Abstract: A multi-layered cosmetic composition suitable for topical application is provided. The composition comprises an oil layer comprising at least about 5%, by weight of the composition, of natural oil; and an aqueous layer, comprising at least about 0.01%, by weight of the composition, of a polymer selected from the group consisting of a polysaccharide, sodium hyaluronate, or a combination thereof. The multi-layered cosmetic composition is free of surfactant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2017
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Surajit Das, Jayant Eknath Khanolkar
  • Patent number: 9555273
    Abstract: Systems and methods for determining the accuracy of a foam addition system on a firefighting vehicle are disclosed. The methods may include measuring the amount of a test water stream flowing through a foam metering device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: E-One, Inc.
    Inventors: Leroy C. Stephens, Rickie W. White
  • Patent number: 9364697
    Abstract: A foam-applying nozzle including a generally hollow housing. An eductor disposed in the housing has a generally hollow body with a wall, the hollow of the body forming an eduction chamber. An eductor inlet and an opposing eductor outlet are in fluid communication with the eduction chamber. A plurality of jet inlets extend into the wall of the body, the jet inlets terminating in jet ports that are in fluid communication with the eduction chamber. The jet inlets are configured to receive a predetermined portion of a pressurized fluid, the portion exiting through the jet ports generally toward the eductor outlet, creating a vacuum in the eduction chamber. The vacuum is configured to draw a foam solution into the eductor inlet, the foam solution mixing with the aforementioned portion of pressurized fluid in the eduction chamber to form a foam mixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Assignee: Akron Brass Company
    Inventors: Kevin J. Petit, Ajit P. Singh, Frederick Lewis
  • Patent number: 9186533
    Abstract: A fire protection system comprising at least one sprinkler, a source of pressurized water, a piping network connecting at least one sprinkler to the source of pressurized water, and a nitrogen generator coupled to the sprinkler system. The nitrogen generator may be a nitrogen membrane system or a nitrogen pressure swing adsorption system. The present systems and methods reduce or nearly eliminate corrosion that typically affects conventional fire protection systems, such as caused by oxygen and microbial systems, which can deteriorate or compromise function. Initial, repeated, or continuous displacement of oxygen with nitrogen in the fire protection system significantly reduces or eliminates corrosion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2015
    Assignee: Engineered Corrosion Solutions, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey T. Kochelek, David J. Burkhart, Thorstein Holt, Kenneth Jones
  • Patent number: 9126066
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a fire extinguishing system including an electronic control unit in communication with a software library, a foam proportioning system including foam proportioning equipment, and a smart connector. The smart connector includes a controller, and the smart connector is connected to the foam proportioning equipment. The controller automatically initiates an authentication procedure when the smart connector is connected to the electronic control unit. The controller causes the electronic control unit to automatically unlock at least one routines in the software library after the authentication procedure is complete to enable control of the foam proportioning equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2015
    Assignee: Fire Research Corp.
    Inventors: Jonathan Gamble, Harold McCabe
  • Patent number: 9022133
    Abstract: Water is mixed with fire suppressant polymer in a mixer absent a power source. The mixer receives water through a water inlet with water exhibiting high velocity and associated hydrodynamic force. Such velocity is achieved by locating the water inlet connected to a float or other part of an aircraft so that when the aircraft flies over water with the float dipping into the water, water is driven through the opening and into the water inlet of the mixer. A polymer inlet passes into the mixer. A bend is located downstream of the water inlet and the polymer inlet. The bend exhibits sufficient resistance to fluid flow direction therethrough that the polymer is sheared and thoroughly mixed and activated with the water. A colorant inlet is optionally provided within the mixer and the water and polymer mixture is then discharged into a tank for later utilization at a firefighting location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Inventor: Leonard E. Doten
  • Patent number: 9016392
    Abstract: A two-phase liquid/inert gas flow inerting fire suppression system is provided having improved liquid fire suppressant distribution within the inert gas flow. The system includes a flow distribution network having a first pipe interconnected with a second pipe at a flow splitting tee. A liquid flow redistribution device is disposed in the first pipe upstream with respect to fluid flow of the flow splitting tee.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: UTC Fire & Security Corporation
    Inventors: Yehia F. Khalil, Muhidin A. Lelic, Giuliano Amantini, Ravi K. Madabhushi, Marios C. Soteriou, May L. Corn, Robert G. Dunster, Rob J. Lade
  • Patent number: 8991727
    Abstract: An apparatus for generating a mist is provided. The apparatus has at least one working fluid supply conduit having an inlet in fluid communication with a supply of working fluid and an outlet in fluid communication with a first mixing chamber. The apparatus also includes a plurality of transport fluid passages, each of which has an inlet adapted to receive a supply of transport fluid and an outlet in fluid communication with the mixing chamber. Downstream of the mixing chamber is a nozzle having an inlet in fluid communication with the mixing chamber, an outlet, and a throat portion intermediate the nozzle inlet and outlet. The throat portion of the nozzle has a cross sectional area which is less than that of either the nozzle inlet or the nozzle outlet. The apparatus enhances the atomization of the working fluid to generate the mist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Tyco Fire & Security GmbH
    Inventors: Jude Alexander Glynn Worthy, James Oliver French
  • Publication number: 20150075820
    Abstract: An extendible firefighting nozzle and supply mechanism for use in penetrating materials and debris for fighting concealed fires in, for example, coal supply, bulk wood chip and combustible grain silo fire incidents. The system includes three primary components to deliver firefighting foam, water and/or inert gas to the fire area. The components include a distribution manifold, a sectional delivery piping extension and interchangeable spray nozzles that are tailored to the specific need. The manifold is a length of piping having handles for the operator to grip and reliably use the system, a hammer cap that allows the user to employ a sledge hammer or impact driver to assist in driving the system into the debris pile or fire area and an output end that interfaces with a nozzle of any number of extension pipes. The interface is modular and threaded using NPTM threading to allow extensions to be added or removed depending on the depth of penetration required.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2014
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Inventors: Keith Grant, Loren Rideout
  • Patent number: 8973670
    Abstract: A fire suppression system for a container including a first tank containing a first liquid component of a two-part foam and a second tank containing a second liquid component of the foam. The system also includes at least one liquid component release device configured to be selectively capable of releasing the first and second components from their respective containers upon receipt of a signal from a fire detector upon detection of a fire. The two-part foam components are propelled through the system by a pressurized propellant that, upon release of the release device, causes the exit of the foam components from their respective tanks, through a mixing conduit to at least one nozzle. The nozzle is configured to spray the liquid component foam mixture into the container wherein the foam cures into a substantially semi-rigid, closed cell foam that is substantially impermeable and may have charring and/or intumescence properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Inventor: William Armand Enk, Sr.
  • Patent number: 8960218
    Abstract: A valve control system for a compressed air foam generation apparatus includes a control board with a scrolling light display to indicate the quality of foam being produced. The control board is coupled to a manually operated valve by a string potentiometer. The string potentiometer connects at a ring coupled to the valve, such that turning of the valve causes the string potentiometer cable to extend or retract, thereby indicating the degree to which the solution valve is opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Inventor: Carroll G. Rowe
  • Patent number: 8960318
    Abstract: A fire extinguishing device for the uniform distribution of compressed air foam for fire suppression, connected to a piping network of a CAF system. Multiple nozzles of different types are connected to a single body, set at specific angles both horizontally and vertically. Each nozzle is selected to provide a set discharge spray angle and positioned in the body of the device to provide the proper distribution. The device body has a female thread at the inlet for connection to the CAF system in addition to female outlets at the discharge for connection of spray nozzles. The device may be used to create a 360° spray pattern or a 120° spray pattern depending on the application.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Inventor: David B. Munroe
  • Patent number: 8839876
    Abstract: A firefighting apparatus comprising a controller, and a hydraulic pump driven by a power-take-off and operable to supply a hydraulic fluid under pressure. A water pumping subsystem is powered by the hydraulic fluid and operable to supply water under pressure to a conduit, wherein a flow rate of water is substantially regulated by controlling the hydraulic fluid input to the water pumping subsystem. A chemical foam subsystem is powered by the hydraulic fluid and operable to inject foam at a predetermined flow rate into the conduit, wherein the flow rate of the foam is substantially regulated by controlling the hydraulic fluid input to the chemical foam subsystem. An electrical power generator subsystem is powered by the hydraulic fluid and operable to generate electrical power, wherein the frequency and voltage of the generated power is substantially regulated by controlling the hydraulic fluid input to the electrical power generator subsystem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: ROM Acquisition Corporation
    Inventors: John E. McLoughlin, Neocles G. Athanasiades, Kiam Meng Toh, James L. Otwell
  • Patent number: 8833476
    Abstract: A unique method and apparatus for suppressing the spread of and extinguishing fires in confined areas such as underground tunnels and conduits. The new method includes mixing a super absorbent polymer supplied from a backpack, in one embodiment, with water to form a hydrated super absorbent polymer and applying this admixture to an electrical fire. The super absorbent polymer can be contained in a backpack. The admixture has the ability to cling to the object(s) to which it has been applied and either cool down the object(s) after it is on fire, or block the fire from reaching the object. The super absorbent polymer and water admixture also encapsulates the noxious and toxic gases and prevents the release of these toxic gases into the atmosphere. The super absorbent polymer and water admixture retains the ash, particulates, and other byproducts of the electrical fire to enable a rapid and thorough cleanup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: GelTech Solutions, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter Cordani
  • Patent number: 8789614
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a fire-fighting system including a low-pressure system and an ultra-high pressure system (UHPS). The fire-fighting system can also include a foam proportioning system, which can inject a foamant into the low-pressure system and/or the UHPS. The low-pressure system and the UHPS can be simultaneously operated. Some embodiments of the fire-fighting system can be installed on aircraft rescue fire fighting (ARFF) vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Assignee: Fire Research Corp.
    Inventor: Robert L. Hosfield
  • Publication number: 20140138102
    Abstract: An exemplary fire suppression system includes a nozzle body configured to carry a fire suppressing fluid to be discharged from a first orifice array and a second orifice array. Gas bubbles can be introduced through a bubbler into the fire suppressing fluid to establish a bubbly mixture in the nozzle. Each first orifice in the first orifice array has a first flow property and is configured to receive the bubbly mixture and through effervescent atomization yield a first fire suppression mist from the first orifice array. Each second orifice in the second orifice array has a second different flow property and is configured to receive the bubbly mixture and through effervescent atomization yield a second fire suppression mist from the second orifice array. The first fire suppression mist and the second fire suppression mist are configured to provide a selected fire suppression nozzle discharge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2011
    Publication date: May 22, 2014
    Inventors: May L. Corn, Michael R. Carey, Jeffrey M. Cohen, Bryan Robert Siewert, Thierry Carriere, Joshua A. Sheffel
  • Patent number: 8720592
    Abstract: A nozzle assembly for encapsulating a gaseous solution in bubbles comprises a discharge tube having a diffuser and a foam solution spray nozzle mounted therein. The discharge tube has upstream and downstream ends. The discharge tube has a front face at the upstream end with a first opening configured to be joined to a gas supply line that provides a gaseous solution and a second opening configured to receive a non-expanded foam solution. The downstream end of the discharge tube is open. A chamber is formed within the discharge tube to receive the gaseous solution at the upstream end and release the gaseous solution through the diffuser into the discharge tube towards the downstream end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Tyco Fire Products LP
    Inventors: Mitchell J. Hubert, Stephen A. Barker, Donald Bjorkman, Gregory R. Walker
  • Patent number: 8662192
    Abstract: A fire and explosion suppression system comprises a source (5) of high pressure water which is fed to a misting nozzle (13) at one input of a mixing unit (6), and a source (14) of high pressure inert gas, such as nitrogen, which is fed along a pipe (20) to another input of the mixing unit (6). Inside the mixing unit (6), water mist, in the form of an atomized mist of very small droplet size is mixed with the pressurized gas and exits the mixing unit (6) at high pressure and high velocity along a pipe (22) and is thence discharged through spreaders (26, 28). The source (5) of the water is pressurized by a feed (30) from the source of pressurized inert gas. The mass flow rate of the water will therefore reduce as the pressure of the gas decays. This tends to maintain the ratio of the mass flow rate of the water to the mass flow rate of the gas constant. This is found to produce and maintain an advantageous distribution of droplet size in the discharged unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Kidde IP Holding Limited
    Inventors: Robert George Dunster, Simon James Davies, Robert James Lade
  • Patent number: 8622144
    Abstract: This invention comprises a method of dispensing water-based decontaminants from a dispenser, comprising the steps of: (a) filling one or more tanks each with respective solutions of chemicals and water; (b) pumping the solutions from the tanks in respective hoses, each of the tanks being evacuated under the urging of a respective pump; (c) mixing the solutions at a static mixer after evacuation of the solutions from the tanks to form a mixture; (d) adding water to the mixture at the static mixer; and (e) dispensing the water-added mixture onto an incident site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Allen-Vanguard Corporation
    Inventors: John Davis, Dragan Sorak
  • Patent number: 8622145
    Abstract: A firefighting station is provided. The firefighting station includes an optional portable cart, one or more chemical foam proportioners, one or more first manifolds, one or more first valves, one or more first check valves, one or more second manifolds and one or more optional chemical fire suppression agent reservoirs. Methods of suppressing or preventing a fire are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Inventor: James D. Guse
  • Patent number: 8613325
    Abstract: A compressed gas foam system is provided. The compressed gas foam system includes one or more optional fluid pumps, one or more mixing devices, one or more optional foam systems; one or more optional gas compressors, and a system controller. A method of using the compressed gas foam system is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Inventor: James D. Guse
  • Patent number: 8573317
    Abstract: The method is for continuously producing compressed-air foam, notably for fire fighting or for decontamining, by supplying both compressed air and a mixture of water and at least a foaming agent to a foaming chamber (5) outputting foam to a nozzle (9) via a pipe (8). The mixture of foam agent and water and the compressed air are each continuously supplied to the foaming chamber (5) at a constant pressure and at a constant volume flow rate, e.g. by means of pressure regulators (1, 2) and of flow rate regulators (3, 4). The foam pressure is regulated at the outlet of the foaming chamber (5) for maintaining the foam mixing pressure in the foaming chamber constant, preferably by a self-operating valve (6). The foaming chamber can advantageously be of a static type comprising sieves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: SOGEPI S.A.
    Inventors: Tino Krüger, Günter Dorau
  • Publication number: 20130213674
    Abstract: The invention includes components and methodology for fixed and semi-fixed systems for extinguishing fire in large industrial flammable liquid storage tanks, including aerated foam projecting nozzles discharging substantially focused streams together with aeration chambers and risers and the formation of wand heads and wands. Specifically, the invention includes a nozzle having a tip portion, the tip portion having a stream shaper, and the stream shaper having at least four fins with a longitudinal dimension in the tip portion greater than a radial dimension in the tip portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2011
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Inventors: Dwight P. Williams, Casey R. Spears
  • Patent number: 8511395
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a redundant stationary fire fighting system and method for use in a structure coupled to a water supply and a main water pump(s) that generates a water stream. The system includes one or more water flow meters to measure the water stream and generate a water flow signal. The system includes a primary foam proportioning system and a redundant secondary foam proportioning system, each including a foam pump, a motor, a foam flow meter, and a controller. The controller is configured to automatically operate the foam pump based on the water flow signal in order to inject liquid foam concentrate directly into the water stream. The redundant secondary foam proportioning system can be automatically started in case of component failure in the primary foam proportioning system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Sta-Rite Industries, LLC
    Inventors: Robert L. Hosfield, Jonathan Gamble, Jim Weigle
  • Publication number: 20130118763
    Abstract: A compressed air foam delivery system includes a control unit to monitor and/or adjust components within the system so as to deliver a compressed air foam agent mixture with a desired agent:air ratio at a desired flow rate to one or more active discharges. In one embodiment, the control unit can be equipped to control one or more of a pump engine, water pump, foam delivery unit and air compressor so as to deliver and maintain the desired ratio of agent mixture at the desired flow rate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2012
    Publication date: May 16, 2013
    Applicant: WATEROUS COMPANY
    Inventor: WATEROUS COMPANY
  • Publication number: 20130048318
    Abstract: A one-touch Compressed Air Foam System (CAFS) is provided that allows for a simplified user interface and simplified user operation. The user interface allows the CAFS to activate upon a single press of a single button. An electronic controller checks that several CAFS device parameters show that the CAFS is capable of operating. The controller gathers the device parameter data from a diagnostic system present in the CAFS that gives data pertaining to whether water is flowing, whether foam concentrate is present in the system, whether foam is flowing, and whether the temperature of an air compressor is within a safe range for operation. If the above device parameters are found to be in condition for safe operation of the CAFS, the controller will start and maintain operation until either one of the above falls out of tolerance or the user initiates a shut down of the CAFS.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: Spartan Motors, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald Lee Ewers, Bradley Lyle Busch, Bradley Alan Ewers
  • Patent number: 8376059
    Abstract: A fire suppression system is disclosed. The system includes a source of pressurized gas and a source of pressurized liquid. At least one emitter is in fluid communication with the liquid and gas sources. The emitter is used to establish a gas stream, atomize and entrain the liquid into the gas stream and discharge the resulting liquid-gas stream onto the fire. The emitter discharges the liquid-gas stream against a deflector surface having a closed end cavity therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Victaulic Company
    Inventors: William J. Reilly, Robert J. Ballard, Kevin J. Blease, Stephen R. Ide
  • Patent number: 8376247
    Abstract: A fire extinguishing or explosion suppression device comprises a chamber and a nozzle. The nozzle defines a discharge pathway from the chamber. The chamber has an inlet for pressure-driven introduction of a liquid into the chamber. The chamber is shaped so that a gas contained in the chamber before the introduction of the liquid is entrained into the liquid during the pressure driven introduction of the liquid such that a mixture of the liquid and the gas is discharged through the nozzle to create a mist for extinguishing a fire or suppression of an explosion. After the gas has been discharged from the chamber, the nozzle produces a spray having a core of larger liquid droplets with the core being surrounded by smaller liquid droplets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Kidde IP Holdings Limited
    Inventors: Christian Manthey, Hans-Joachim Herzog, Robert George Dunster
  • Publication number: 20130037277
    Abstract: This invention is directed to a foam generating apparatus having a mixing chamber housing inside a tank; a fluid injection head inside the mixing chamber housing for receiving the foaming agent traveling along an initial flow direction; a flow spoiler included in the fluid injection head for changing the initial flow direction of the foaming agent entering the fluid injection head; a first mixing chamber; a plurality of fluid ports included in the fluid injection head allowing foaming agent to exit the fluid injection head and enter the first mixing chamber thereby creating an intermediate foam in the first mixing chamber; a gas port allowing pressurized gas to mix with the intermediate foam generating output foam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2011
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Inventor: Darren Sean Henry
  • Patent number: 8360339
    Abstract: A fire suppression apparatus and method of generating foam are provided in which a foam-forming liquid is introduced under high velocity and pressure into a mixing manifold through a plurality of jets, and a non-combustible gas is introduced under high velocity and pressure into the center of the mixing manifold, downstream of the jets and in the direction of flow of the foam-forming liquid. The foam generated in the mixing manifold is discharged through a hose and nozzle connected to the mixing manifold. The apparatus may be a self-contained unit, supported on a frame, with its own supply of foam-forming liquid and non-combustible gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Forced Gas Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Darren Sean Henry