System and method for extinguishing fires in lavatories of vehicles

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for extinguishing fires in a lavatory of a vehicle. A fire suppression system (200) for an enclosed space, such as a lavatory (100) of a vehicle, includes a first inner shutter (204), a second inner shutter (206) coupled to the first inner shutter (204) to define one or more air passages (214) therethrough, and a temperature-responsive device (210) coupled to one or both of the first inner shutter (204) and the second inner shutter (206). The temperature-responsive device (210) is configured to be in a first state below a predetermined temperature threshold and a second state above the predetermined temperature threshold. In the second state, the second inner shutter (206) moves relative to the first inner shutter (204) to close the one or more air passages (214).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Examples of this disclosure generally relate to systems and methods for extinguishing fires in enclosed spaces, such as toilets in the interior cabins of commercial aircraft. Background Technology

[0002] Commercial aircraft are used to transport passengers between different locations. A typical commercial aircraft includes one or more toilets in its interior cabin.

[0003] A growing number of airline customers are requesting the use of toilets to store excess bagged trash. Multiple bags of trash can be stored in one or more toilets when the interior cabin is preparing for landing and the toilets are locked and unused.

[0004] Certain regulations (such as those issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)) require that toilets in commercial aircraft be able to contain a fire within 30 minutes. In fact, the FAA has stringent requirements for this fire containment. Tests to meet these requirements typically involve igniting multiple bags of trash (e.g., four large bags).

[0005] Furthermore, some regulations require commercial aircraft lavatory doors to have open grilles to meet certain decompression requirements. Open grilles also allow for negative airflow pressure within the lavatory to prevent odors from escaping into the main cabin. Fire containment and decompression requirements can conflict because open grilles allow air to pass through and potentially ignite a fire, as demonstrated in some tests. Known lavatory doors include grilles that are always open, thus creating a continuous flow of air into any fire within the lavatory. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Systems and methods are needed for effectively and efficiently extinguishing fires in the toilets of commercial aircraft.

[0007] In view of this need, certain examples of this disclosure provide a fire suppression system comprising: a first inner gate; a second inner gate coupled to the first inner gate to define one or more air passages therethrough; and a temperature-responsive device coupled to one or both of the first and second inner gates. The temperature-responsive device is configured to be in a first state below a predetermined temperature threshold and a second state above the predetermined temperature threshold. In the second state, the second inner gate moves relative to the first inner gate to close the one or more air passages.

[0008] In at least one example, the fire suppression system is coupled to the door's grille. In at least one example, the toilet includes the door. In at least one example, the door is coupled to an enclosed space located within the interior compartment of the vehicle.

[0009] In at least one example, the temperature-response device includes a eutectic alloy fuse.

[0010] In at least one example, the temperature-responsive device includes a button and a thermoplastic pin extending into the button.

[0011] In at least one example, the first inner gate includes a fixed open frame, and the second inner gate includes louvers movably connected to the fixed open frame.

[0012] Certain examples of this disclosure provide a fire extinguishing method comprising the steps of: maintaining a temperature-responsive device coupled to one or both of a first inner gate and a second inner gate in a first state below a predetermined temperature threshold; switching the temperature-responsive device to a second state above the predetermined temperature threshold; and, in response to the switching, moving the second inner gate relative to the first inner gate to close one or more air passages defined to pass through the first inner gate or the second inner gate when the temperature-responsive device is in the first state.

[0013] Certain examples of this disclosure provide a vehicle comprising: an interior compartment; and an enclosed space located within the interior compartment. The enclosed space includes a door having a grille and a fire suppression system coupled to the grille, as described herein. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 A three-dimensional front view of an aircraft according to an example of this disclosure is shown.

[0015] Figure 2 An interior perspective view of a toilet according to an example of this disclosure is shown.

[0016] Figure 3 A schematic block diagram of a fire suppression system for a toilet in the interior compartment of an aircraft, according to an example of this disclosure, is shown.

[0017] Figure 4 A flowchart is shown illustrating a fire extinguishing method for a toilet inside an aircraft cabin, according to an example of this disclosure.

[0018] Figure 5 An isometric front view of a door with a grille, according to an example of this disclosure, is shown.

[0019] Figure 6 An isometric exploded view of a fire extinguishing system according to an example of this disclosure is shown.

[0020] Figure 7 It shows Figure 6 An isometric view of the fire suppression system.

[0021] Figure 8 A side view of a fire extinguishing system having a temperature response device in a first state during normal operation, according to an example of this disclosure, is shown.

[0022] Figure 9 A side view of a fire extinguishing system that reaches a predetermined temperature threshold, according to an example of this disclosure, is shown.

[0023] Figure 10 A side view of a fire extinguishing system having a temperature response device that is in a second state after a predetermined temperature threshold is reached, according to an example of this disclosure, is shown.

[0024] Figure 11A An isometric view of a fire suppression system according to an example of this disclosure is shown.

[0025] Figure 11B It shows Figure 11A Top view of the fire extinguishing system.

[0026] Figure 12 An isometric view of a door with a fire suppression system, according to an example of this disclosure, is shown.

[0027] Figure 13 A side view of a fire extinguishing system having a temperature response device in a first state during normal operation, according to an example of this disclosure, is shown.

[0028] Figure 14 A side view of a fire extinguishing system that reaches a predetermined temperature threshold, according to an example of this disclosure, is shown.

[0029] Figure 15 A side view of a fire extinguishing system having a temperature response device in a second state after reaching a predetermined temperature threshold, according to an example of this disclosure, is shown.

[0030] Figure 16 A side view of a fire extinguishing system having a temperature response device in a first state during normal operation, according to an example of this disclosure, is shown.

[0031] Figure 17 A side view of a fire extinguishing system that reaches a predetermined temperature threshold, according to an example of this disclosure, is shown.

[0032] Figure 18 A side view of a fire extinguishing system having a temperature response device in a second state after reaching a predetermined temperature threshold, according to an example of this disclosure, is shown.

[0033] Figure 19 A flowchart of a fire extinguishing method according to an example of this disclosure is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0034] The foregoing overview and the following detailed description of certain examples will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. As used herein, elements or steps listed in the singular and preceded by the word "a" or "an" should be understood to not necessarily exclude the plural form of the elements or steps. Furthermore, reference to "an example" is not intended to be construed as excluding the existence of additional examples that also include the listed features. Moreover, unless explicitly stated otherwise, examples that "comprise" or "have" one or more elements with a specific condition may include additional elements that do not have that condition.

[0035] Certain examples of this disclosure provide a vehicle (such as a commercial aircraft) including an internal compartment. A toilet is located within the internal compartment. The toilet includes a door having a grille and a fire suppression system coupled to the grille. The fire suppression system includes a first inner gate, a second inner gate coupled to the first inner gate to define an air passage therethrough, and a temperature-responsive device coupled to one or both of the first and second inner gates. The temperature-responsive device is in a first state below a predetermined temperature threshold and a second state above the predetermined temperature threshold. In the second state, the second inner gate moves relative to the first inner gate to close the air passage.

[0036] As an example, the temperature-responsive device includes a eutectic alloy fuse. As an example, the temperature-responsive device includes a button and a thermoplastic pin extending into the button.

[0037] In at least one example, the first inner gate includes a fixed open frame, and the second inner gate includes louvers movably connected to the fixed open frame.

[0038] Certain examples of this disclosure provide an entrance door for a toilet in a commercial aircraft, which includes a fire suppression system. In at least one example, the fire suppression system includes louvers, or a gate system that allows two independent operating modes specific to the aircraft. The first mode allows the toilet door grille to allow airflow to be in a depressurization event while also allowing the airflow to maintain negative pressure within the toilet. The second mode is configured to automatically change its state in response to one or more conditions, such as predetermined temperature thresholds or ranges. Specifically, in the second mode, the louvers or gate automatically close to prevent airflow from entering the toilet.

[0039] In at least one example, the fire suppression system includes a eutectic alloy fuse configured to activate at a precise predetermined temperature threshold. For example, the fuse may be configured to meet the FAA's requirement of 30 minutes to contain a fire, unique to aircraft certification. In at least one example, the fire suppression system is configured to meet unique requirements for aircraft certification, such as regarding flammability, pressure differentials, decompression events, temperature differences within the lavatory during normal operation and during a fire, vibration, reliability, durability, abuse, and fail-safe protection. Alternatively, the fire suppression system can be used at doors to various other enclosed spaces, whether in other vehicles or fixed structures.

[0040] In at least one example, the fire suppression system includes a damper / louver configured to close in response to reaching a predetermined temperature (e.g., via operation of a eutectic alloy fuse), thereby suppressing the airflow of a fire. When the temperature is below the predetermined temperature, the damper / louver is in the open position, thereby addressing pressure reduction and negative airflow requirements.

[0041] Figure 1 A perspective front view of an aircraft 10 according to an example of this disclosure is shown. The aircraft 10 includes a propulsion system 12, including, for example, engines 14. Optionally, the propulsion system 12 may include more engines 14 than shown. The engines 14 are carried by wings 16 of the aircraft 10. In other examples, the engines 14 may be carried by a fuselage 18 and / or a tail 20. The tail 20 may also support a horizontal stabilizer 22 and a vertical stabilizer 24.

[0042] The fuselage 18 of the aircraft 10 defines an interior compartment 30, which includes a flight deck or cockpit, one or more work areas (e.g., galley, carry-on baggage area, etc.), one or more passenger areas (e.g., first class, business class, and economy class), one or more lavatories, etc. At least one lavatory within the interior compartment 30 includes a fire suppression system, as described herein.

[0043] Alternatively, instead of aircraft, the examples of this disclosure can be used with a variety of other vehicles, such as automobiles, buses, locomotives and train carriages, ships, etc. Furthermore, the examples of this disclosure can be used with fixed structures, such as commercial and residential buildings.

[0044] Figure 2 An interior perspective view of a toilet 100 according to an example of this disclosure is shown. Toilet 100 is, for example, in... Figure 1The illustration shows an example of an enclosed space or room within the interior of an aircraft 10. A toilet 100 may be on the aircraft, as described above. Alternatively, the toilet 100 may be on various other vehicles. In other examples, the toilet 100 may be within a fixed structure, such as that of a commercial or residential building. The toilet 100 includes a base 101 supporting a toilet 102, a cabinet 104, and a sink 106 or washbasin. The toilet 100 may be arranged differently from what is shown. The toilet 100 may include more or fewer components than shown.

[0045] The toilet 100 also includes an entrance door 120. As described herein, door 120 includes a grille with a fire suppression system.

[0046] Figure 3 A schematic block diagram of a fire suppression system 200 for a toilet 100 within an interior compartment 30 of an aircraft 10, according to an example of this disclosure, is shown. The fire suppression system 200 is coupled to a grille assembly (or grille) 202 within a door (or panel) 120 of the toilet 100. The grille 202 may include an external air grille 203 and an internal air grille 205.

[0047] In at least one example, door 120 can be manufactured to have fire suppression system 200. As another example, the grille of an existing door can be removed, and the door can be modified with grille 202 having fire suppression system 200.

[0048] The fire suppression system 200 includes a first inner gate 204 coupled to the second inner gate 206. For example, the first inner gate 204 is a fixed, stationary gate, and the second inner gate 206 is movable relative to the first inner gate 204. Alternatively, the first inner gate 204 may be a movable gate, and the second inner gate 206 may be a fixed, stationary gate. The fire suppression system 200 may also include a side guide channel 208 (e.g., a guide channel formed in a transverse track supporting one or both of the first inner gate 204 and the second inner gate 206).

[0049] Temperature response device 210 is coupled to one or both of the first inner gate 204 and / or the second inner gate 206. Temperature response device 210 is configured to change its state in response to reaching a predetermined temperature. In at least one example, temperature response device 210 is a eutectic alloy fuse. The predetermined temperature may be the temperature at which a fire ignites within toilet 100. For example, the predetermined temperature may be a temperature determined by the FAA according to one or more fire extinguishing regulations.

[0050] In operation, when the temperature inside the toilet 100 is lower than a predetermined temperature, the temperature response device 210 is in a first state, and the first inner gate 204 and the second inner gate 206 remain in the open position, allowing one or more air passages to open and permit air to enter the toilet 100. In response to reaching a predetermined temperature (i.e., a predetermined temperature threshold), the temperature response device 210 automatically changes to a second state (e.g., by melting). In at least one example, the second inner gate 206 is movably coupled to the temperature response device 210. As the temperature response device 210 changes to the second state, the second inner gate 206 moves accordingly, thereby closing one or more air passages and preventing airflow into the toilet 100.

[0051] Figure 4 A flowchart illustrating a fire extinguishing method for a toilet inside an aircraft cabin, according to an example of this disclosure, is shown. (Reference) Figure 3 and Figure 4 At step 300, during normal operation, the grille 202 allows airflow to maintain a negative airflow within the toilet and allows airflow to be in a depressurization event. Therefore, the fire suppression system 200 within the grille 202 has a temperature response device 210 in a first state, wherein the first inner gate 204 and the second inner gate 206 are in the open position, allowing one or more air passages to pass through.

[0052] At step 302, in response to reaching a predetermined temperature threshold, the temperature response device 210 is switched to a second state. For example, the eutectic alloy melt melts at the predetermined temperature threshold (e.g., a temperature exceeding 50 degrees Celsius).

[0053] If the temperature does not reach the predetermined threshold, the fire suppression system 200 keeps the first inner gate 204 and the second inner gate 206 in the open position at step 304. However, if the temperature has reached the predetermined threshold, at step 306, the temperature response device 210 is switched to a second state (e.g., by melting), the second inner gate 206 descends, and the air passage is closed (thus moving gates 204 and 206 to the closed position), thereby cutting off the airflow through the grille 202.

[0054] Figure 5 An isometric front view of a door 120 with a grille 202 according to an example of this disclosure is shown. As described herein, the grille 202 includes a fire suppression system. In at least one example, the door 120 is part of a toilet, for example, inside a cabin of a vehicle (e.g., a commercial aircraft).

[0055] Figure 6 An isometric exploded view of a fire extinguishing system 200 according to an example of this disclosure is shown. Figure 7 It shows Figure 6 An isometric view of the fire suppression system. (Refer to...) Figure 6 and Figure 7 The fire extinguishing system 200 includes a first inner gate 204, a second inner gate 206, a side guide passage 208, and a temperature response device 210 (such as a eutectic alloy fuse), the temperature response device 210 being connected to a fixed part of the gate. Figure 6 and Figure 7 (not shown in the image) and a second inner gate 206, such as the top edge or portion 207 of the second inner gate 206. The first inner gate 204 and the second inner gate 206 each include openings 212 (e.g., a first opening) and 213 (e.g., a second opening), which are aligned to provide an open air passage 214 through the grille 202 when the temperature response device 210 is in a first state (e.g., when the temperature is below a predetermined temperature threshold).

[0056] Figure 8 A side view of a fire extinguishing system 200 having a temperature response device in a first state during normal operation, according to an example of this disclosure, is shown. Figure 9 A side view of the fire suppression system 200 is shown when a predetermined temperature threshold is reached. Figure 10 A side view of a fire extinguishing system 200 with a temperature response device that is in a second state after a predetermined temperature threshold is reached is shown.

[0057] like Figure 10 As shown, when the temperature response device 210 transitions to the second state (e.g., having at least one melting portion), the second inner gate 206 shifts downward relative to the first inner gate 204, thereby misaligning the openings 212 and 213 and closing the open air passage 214 (e.g., Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, but Figure 10 (The middle is blocked). For example, when the temperature response device 210 changes to the second state, the lower part 219 of the temperature response device 210 is moved downward relative to the fixed upper part 221, thereby forcing the second inner gate 206 downward and misaligning the openings 212 and 213.

[0058] Figure 11A An isometric view of a fire extinguishing system 200 according to an example of this disclosure is shown. Figure 11B It shows Figure 11A Top view of the 200 fire suppression system. Figure 12 An isometric view of a door 120 having a fire extinguishing system 200, according to an example of this disclosure, is shown.

[0059] refer to Figure 11A , Figure 11B and Figure 12In this example, the temperature response device 210 includes a button 240 (e.g., a thermally conductive button made of copper, brass, etc.) fixed to a grille 202 (e.g., an inner air grille 205, or optionally, an outer air grille 203) and a thermoplastic pin 250 extending into the button 240 and the second inner gate 206. The pin 250 is configured to melt at a predetermined temperature threshold. When the pin 250 melts, it disengages from the second inner gate 206 (e.g., melts within and exits the holding channel of the second inner gate 206). Consequently, the second inner gate 206 descends relative to the first inner gate 204 to close the open air passage.

[0060] Figure 13 A side view of a fire extinguishing system 200 having a temperature response device 210 in a first state during normal operation, according to an example of this disclosure, is shown. Figure 14 A side view of a fire extinguishing system 200, as exemplified by this disclosure, is shown when a predetermined temperature threshold is reached. Figure 15 A side view of a fire extinguishing system 200 is shown, which has a temperature response device 210 that is in a second state after a predetermined temperature threshold is reached.

[0061] In at least one example, the fire extinguishing system 200 may include information regarding... Figures 6 to 10 The temperature response device 210 shown and described, and related to Figures 11A to 15 Temperature response device 210 is shown and described.

[0062] Figure 16 A side view of a fire extinguishing system 200 having a temperature response device 210 in a first state during normal operation, according to an example of this disclosure, is shown. Figure 17 A side view of a fire extinguishing system 200, as exemplified by this disclosure, is shown when a predetermined temperature threshold is reached. Figure 18 A side view of a fire extinguishing system 200 having a temperature response device 210 in a second state after reaching a predetermined temperature threshold, according to an example of this disclosure, is shown.

[0063] exist Figures 16 to 18 In the example shown, the first inner gate 204 may be a fixed open frame, and the second inner gate 206 may be a movable louver fixed within the fixed open frame. A temperature-responsive device 210 (such as any device described herein) is coupled to the movable louver, for example, via a spring-loaded or energy-storing device. Figure 16As shown, when the temperature response device 210 is in the first state (below a predetermined temperature threshold), the louver panel 400 is oriented to form an air passage 214 through the fixed open frame and the louver. When the predetermined threshold is reached, the temperature response device switches to the second state, and in response, the louver panel 400 moves to close the air passage 214, causing the louver to be in a state where... Figure 18 The indicated closing position.

[0064] As shown in the figure, the movable louvers may include one or more panels 400 connected to one or more temperature-responsive devices 210. The fire suppression system 200 may include... Figures 16 to 18 Showing more or fewer panels 400 and temperature response devices 210.

[0065] In at least one example, the fire extinguishing system 200 may include Figures 16 to 18 The temperature response device 210 shown and about Figures 6 to 10 The temperature response device 210 shown and described and related Figures 11A to 15 One or both of the temperature response devices 210 shown and described.

[0066] Figure 19 A flowchart illustrating a fire extinguishing method according to an example of this disclosure is shown. (Reference) Figure 3 and Figure 19 The fire extinguishing method includes the following steps: maintaining a temperature-response device 210 connected to one or both of the first inner gate 204 and the second inner gate 206 in a first state below a predetermined temperature threshold (step 500); switching the temperature-response device 210 to a second state above the predetermined temperature threshold (step 502); and in response to the switch (step 502), moving the second inner gate 206 relative to the first inner gate 204 to close one or more air passages 214 (e.g., Figure 7 As shown, the air passage is defined to pass through the first inner gate 204 or the second inner gate 206 when the temperature response device 210 is in the first state.

[0067] Furthermore, this disclosure includes examples pursuant to the following terms:

[0068] Clause 1. A fire extinguishing system, said fire extinguishing system comprising:

[0069] First inner gate;

[0070] A second inner gate, connected to the first inner gate to define one or more air passages through which air passes; and

[0071] A temperature response device, wherein the temperature response device is connected to one or both of the first inner gate and the second inner gate.

[0072] The temperature response device is configured to be in a first state below a predetermined temperature threshold and a second state above the predetermined temperature threshold.

[0073] In the second state, the second inner gate moves relative to the first inner gate to close one or more air passages.

[0074] Clause 2. The fire suppression system as described in Clause 1, wherein the fire suppression system is connected to the grille of the door.

[0075] Clause 3. The fire suppression system as described in Clause 2, wherein the toilet includes the door.

[0076] Clause 4. The fire suppression system as described in Clause 2, wherein the door is connected to an enclosed space located within the interior compartment of the vehicle.

[0077] Clause 5. The fire extinguishing system according to any one of Clauses 1 to 4, wherein the temperature response device comprises a eutectic alloy fuse.

[0078] Clause 6. The fire extinguishing system according to any one of Clauses 1 to 5, wherein the temperature response device comprises:

[0079] Buttons; and

[0080] A thermoplastic pin extends into the button.

[0081] Clause 7. The fire suppression system according to any one of Clauses 1 to 6, wherein the first inner gate includes a fixed open frame, and wherein the second inner gate includes louvers movably connected to the fixed open frame.

[0082] Clause 8. A fire extinguishing method, the fire extinguishing method comprising the following steps:

[0083] The temperature response device connected to one or both of the first inner gate and the second inner gate is kept in a first state below a predetermined temperature threshold.

[0084] Transitioning the temperature response device to a second state higher than the predetermined temperature threshold; and

[0085] In response to the change, the second inner gate is moved relative to the first inner gate to close one or more air passages, which are defined to pass through the first inner gate or the second inner gate when the temperature response device is in the first state.

[0086] Clause 9. The fire extinguishing method according to Clause 8, wherein the fire extinguishing system is connected to the grille of the door.

[0087] Clause 10. The fire extinguishing method according to Clause 9, wherein the toilet includes the door.

[0088] Clause 11. The fire extinguishing method according to Clause 9, wherein the door is connected to an enclosed space located within the interior compartment of the vehicle.

[0089] Clause 12. The fire extinguishing method according to any one of Clauses 8 to 11, wherein the temperature-response device comprises a eutectic alloy fuse.

[0090] Clause 13. The fire extinguishing method according to any one of Clauses 8 to 12, wherein the temperature-responsive device comprises:

[0091] Buttons; and

[0092] A thermoplastic pin extends into the button.

[0093] Clause 14. The fire extinguishing method according to any one of Clauses 8 to 13, wherein the first inner gate includes a fixed open frame, and wherein the second inner gate includes louvers movably connected to the fixed open frame.

[0094] Clause 15. A vehicle comprising:

[0095] Internal compartments;

[0096] An enclosed space located within the internal compartment, the enclosed space including a door having a grille and a fire suppression system connected to the grille, the fire suppression system including:

[0097] First inner gate;

[0098] A second inner gate, connected to the first inner gate to define one or more air passages through which air passes; and

[0099] A temperature response device, wherein the temperature response device is connected to one or both of the first inner gate and the second inner gate.

[0100] The temperature response device is configured to be in a first state below a predetermined temperature threshold and a second state above the predetermined temperature threshold.

[0101] In the second state, the second inner gate moves relative to the first inner gate to close one or more air passages.

[0102] Clause 16. The vehicle described in Clause 15, wherein the vehicle is an aircraft.

[0103] Clause 17. The vehicle described in Clause 15 or 16, wherein the enclosed space is a toilet.

[0104] Clause 18. The vehicle according to any one of Clauses 15 to 17, wherein the temperature response device comprises a eutectic alloy fuse.

[0105] Clause 19. The vehicle according to any one of Clauses 15 to 18, wherein the temperature response device comprises:

[0106] Buttons; and

[0107] A thermoplastic pin extends into the button.

[0108] Clause 20. The vehicle according to any one of Clauses 15 to 19, wherein the first inner gate includes a fixed open frame, and wherein the second inner gate includes louvers movably connected to the fixed open frame.

[0109] As described herein, examples of this disclosure provide systems and methods for effectively and efficiently extinguishing fires, for example, in the toilets of commercial aircraft.

[0110] Although various spatial and directional terms such as top, bottom, lower, middle, horizontal, horizontal, vertical, and front may be used to describe examples of this disclosure, it should be understood that these terms are used only with respect to the orientation shown in the figures. The orientation may be reversed, rotated, or otherwise changed such that upper becomes lower (or vice versa), horizontal becomes vertical, etc.

[0111] As used herein, structures, constraints, or elements “configured to” perform tasks or operations are specifically formed, constructed, or adapted in a manner corresponding to the tasks or operations. For clarity and to avoid ambiguity, objects that can only be modified to perform tasks or operations are not “configured to” perform tasks or operations as used herein.

[0112] It should be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. For example, the above examples (and / or aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. Furthermore, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the various examples of this disclosure without departing from their scope. While the dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended to define parameters of the various examples of this disclosure, these examples are by no means restrictive and are exemplary. Many other examples will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the above description. Therefore, the scope of the various examples of this disclosure should be determined by reference to the appended claims and the full scope of their equivalents. In the appended claims and the detailed description herein, the terms “comprising” and “wherein” are used as simple English equivalents of the corresponding terms “comprising” and “wherein”. Furthermore, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc., are used merely as labels and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects.

[0113] This written description uses examples to disclose various examples (including the best mode) of this disclosure and also enables any person skilled in the art to practice the various examples of this disclosure, including making and using any apparatus or system and performing any incorporated method. The patentable scope of the various examples of this disclosure is defined by the claims and may include other examples that would occur to a person skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to fall within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that are not indistinguishable from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements that are not substantially different from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. A fire extinguishing system (200), the fire extinguishing system (200) comprising: First inner gate (204); A second inner gate (206) is connected to the first inner gate (204) to define one or more air passages (214) passing through it. as well as A temperature response device (210) is connected to one or both of the first inner gate (204) and the second inner gate (206). The temperature response device (210) is configured to be in a first state below a predetermined temperature threshold and a second state above the predetermined temperature threshold. In the second state, the second inner gate (206) moves relative to the first inner gate (204) to close one or more air passages (214). The fire extinguishing system (200) is connected to the grille (202) of the door (120), and the door (120) is connected to an enclosed space located inside the interior compartment of the vehicle. The temperature response device (210) includes a heat-conducting button (240) fixed to the grille (202) and a thermoplastic pin (250) extending into the heat-conducting button (240) and the second inner gate (206). The thermoplastic pin (250) is configured to melt at the predetermined temperature threshold and disengage from the second inner gate (206), causing the second inner gate (206) to descend relative to the first inner gate (204) to close the one or more air passages (214).

2. The fire extinguishing system (200) according to claim 1, wherein, The toilet (100) includes the door (120).

3. The fire extinguishing system (200) according to claim 1, wherein, The temperature response device (210) includes a eutectic alloy fuse.

4. The fire extinguishing system (200) according to claim 1, wherein, The first inner gate (204) includes a fixed open frame, and wherein the second inner gate (206) includes louvers movably connected to the fixed open frame.

5. A vehicle comprising: Internal compartments; An enclosed space located within the internal compartment, the enclosed space including a door (120) having a grille (202) and a fire suppression system (200) connected to the grille (202), the fire suppression system (200) including: First inner gate (204); A second inner gate (206) is coupled to the first inner gate (204) to define one or more air passages (214) through which air passes; and A temperature response device (210) is connected to one or both of the first inner gate (204) and the second inner gate (206). The temperature response device (210) is configured to be in a first state below a predetermined temperature threshold and a second state above the predetermined temperature threshold. In the second state, the second inner gate (206) moves relative to the first inner gate (204) to close one or more air passages (214). The temperature response device (210) includes a heat-conducting button (240) fixed to the grille (202) and a thermoplastic pin (250) extending into the heat-conducting button (240) and the second inner gate (206). The thermoplastic pin (250) is configured to melt at the predetermined temperature threshold and disengage from the second inner gate (206), causing the second inner gate (206) to descend relative to the first inner gate (204) to close the one or more air passages (214).

6. The vehicle according to claim 5, wherein, The vehicle is an aircraft (10).

7. The vehicle according to claim 5, wherein, The enclosed space is a toilet (100).

8. The vehicle according to claim 5, wherein, The temperature response device (210) includes a eutectic alloy fuse.

9. The vehicle according to claim 5, wherein, The first inner gate (204) includes a fixed open frame, and wherein the second inner gate (206) includes louvers movably connected to the fixed open frame.

Images