Fire extinguishing device and system

Abstract

A fire extinguishing system includes a DIN rail capable of being attached to a support structure and for carrying one or more electrical devices thereon, wherein the DIN rail includes at least one substantially enclosed channel having a first end and a second end and a longitudinal axis extending in a direction from the first end toward the second end, and wherein the channel defines a passage therein; wherein the channel includes at least one opening to provide fluid communication between the passage and the outside of the channel; wherein the passage within the substantially enclosed channel is used to contain a fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device, wherein the fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device comprises an aerosol-forming composition or a gas-forming composition; and wherein, when the aerosol-forming composition or gas-forming composition of the fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device disposed within the passage burns, the aerosol-forming composition or gas-forming composition expands and exits from the passage through the at least one opening to extinguish a fire.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to fire extinguishing apparatus and systems, and particularly to fire extinguishing apparatus and systems for suppressing and extinguishing fires in or near electrical equipment. Background Technology

[0002] The operation of electrical equipment can cause a fire. Such fires can be caused by a number of factors, including overload of electrical equipment and wiring, overload of electrical equipment and wiring at joints, short circuits, faults or overloads in equipment connected to the electrical system, and excessive transient resistance in the contact groups of electrical wiring.

[0003] In addition, fires can also be caused by the ignition of flammable materials located near or adjacent to electrical equipment and energized connections, which may adversely affect and damage such electrical equipment and energized connections.

[0004] It is well known that there are many causes of electrical fires, and although efforts can be made to minimize or mitigate the likelihood of such fires, they are not inevitable and can cause significant economic losses, loss of human and livestock life, environmental damage, and may spread to neighboring areas, leading to further fires.

[0005] Therefore, it is necessary to suppress and extinguish the fire source in a timely and as fast as possible.

[0006] In addition, it is necessary to suppress and extinguish fire sources in a timely manner and as quickly as possible without damaging equipment located in protected volumes such as electrical cabinets.

[0007] The purpose of this invention

[0008] The object of the present invention is to provide fire extinguishing devices and systems, particularly fire extinguishing devices and systems for suppressing fires near or adjacent to electrical equipment, which overcome or at least partially improve some of the defects associated with those in the prior art. Attached Figure Description

[0009] To gain a more precise understanding of the invention described above, a more detailed description of the invention will be presented with reference to specific embodiments of the invention shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0010] The accompanying drawings presented herein may be drawn to scale, and any reference to the dimensions in the drawings or the following description is specific to the disclosed embodiments.

[0011] Any variations in these dimensions that allow the invention to be used for its intended purposes are within the scope of the invention. Therefore, it should be understood that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are not intended to be limiting of the scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional features and details using the drawings, wherein: Figure 1 (Prior art) shows a schematic cross-sectional and perspective view of a top cap rail according to standard IEC / EN 60715 (European standard EN 50022: specification for low voltage switchgear and controlgear for industrial use); mounting rail; the top cap rail according to the prior art is 35mm wide for snap-fit ​​mounting of the equipment; (previously: German standard DIN 46277, British standard BS 5584); Figure 2 (Prior art) illustrates the cross-section of another type of DIN rail (C-section rail). According to the prior art, these rails are symmetrical within tolerances given and referenced by standard EN 50024; Figure 3 (Prior art) shows the cross-section of another type of DIN rail (G-rail, according to EN 50035, BS 5825, DIN46277-1). According to the prior art, G-rails are typically used to hold heavier, higher-power components; Figures 4a to 4c A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a DIN rail for a fire extinguishing system according to the present invention is shown.

[0012] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a first embodiment of a fire extinguishing system in the form of a DIN rail according to the present invention is shown; Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a second embodiment of the fire extinguishing system according to the present invention is shown; Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of the fire extinguishing system according to the present invention is shown; Figure 8 A schematic diagram illustrating another embodiment of the present invention is shown; and Figure 9 It shows Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of another embodiment of another aspect of the present invention. Summary of the Invention

[0013] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a DIN rail capable of being attached to a support structure and used to carry one or more electrical devices thereon. The DIN rail includes at least one substantially closed channel having a first end and a second end and a longitudinal axis extending in a direction from the first end toward the second end, and wherein the channel defines a passage therein. The channel includes at least one opening to provide fluid communication between the passage and the outside of the channel; The passage within the substantially enclosed channel is used to contain a fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device, wherein the fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device includes an aerosol-forming composition or a gas-forming composition; and When the aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition of the fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device disposed in the passage burns, the aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition expands and is discharged from the passage through the at least one opening to extinguish the fire.

[0014] The channel may include a first opening at a first end of the channel.

[0015] The channel may include a second opening at a second end of the channel.

[0016] The at least one channel may further include at least one or more orifices extending through the wall of the channel to provide fluid communication between the passage and the outside of the channel, wherein, when the aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition of the fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device disposed in the passage burns, the aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition expands and is discharged from the passage through the at least one or more orifices to extinguish the fire.

[0017] The at least one or more orifices may extend along at least a portion of the channel in the direction of the longitudinal axis.

[0018] The DIN rail may also include at least one thermal fuse, wherein the at least one thermal fuse is disposed within the at least one substantially enclosed channel, and wherein the at least one thermal fuse disconnects the circuit in which it is located when activated.

[0019] The at least one thermal fuse is activated when exposed to a temperature exceeding its activation temperature. The activation temperature of the thermal fuse can be in the range of 80°C to 100°C. The activation temperature of the thermal fuse can be approximately 90°C.

[0020] The thermal fuse can be activated based on one or more of the following: excessive current flowing through the thermal fuse, exposure to heat generated from the fire extinguishing system, and exposure to heat generated from a fire adjacent to the fire extinguishing device.

[0021] In a second aspect, the present invention provides a fire extinguishing system comprising a DIN rail capable of being attached to a support structure and used to carry one or more electrical devices thereon. The DIN rail includes at least one substantially closed channel having a first end and a second end and a longitudinal axis extending in a direction from the first end toward the second end, and wherein the channel defines a passage therein. The channel includes at least one opening to provide fluid communication between the passage and the outside of the channel; The passage within the substantially enclosed channel is used to contain a fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device, wherein the fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device includes an aerosol-forming composition or a gas-forming composition; and When the aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition of the fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device disposed in the passage burns, the aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition expands and is discharged from the passage through the at least one opening to extinguish the fire.

[0022] The channel may include a first opening at a first end of the channel.

[0023] The channel may include a second opening at a second end of the channel.

[0024] The at least one channel may further include at least one or more orifices extending through the wall of the channel to provide fluid communication between the passage and the outside of the channel, wherein when the aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition of the fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device disposed in the passage burns, the aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition expands and is discharged from the passage through the at least one or more orifices to extinguish the fire.

[0025] The at least one or more orifices may extend along at least a portion of the channel in the direction of the longitudinal axis.

[0026] The aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition is preferably a solid fuel aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition.

[0027] The solid fuel aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition is preferably a cryogenic solid fuel composition.

[0028] Preferably, an initiation unit is provided, which is made in the form of a thermochemical igniter, wherein the activation temperature of the thermochemical igniter is lower than the activation temperature of the solid fuel aerosol forming composition or the gas forming composition.

[0029] When a temperature rise occurs from a fire in or near the system, the temperature rise activates the thermochemical igniter, and the aerosol-forming composition or gas-forming composition expands and is discharged from the passage to extinguish the fire.

[0030] In an embodiment, the fire extinguishing system may include two channels forming two pathways, each of which contains an aerosol-forming composition or a gas-forming composition.

[0031] The fire extinguishing system may also include at least one thermal fuse, wherein the at least one thermal fuse is disposed within the at least one substantially enclosed passage, and wherein the at least one thermal fuse disconnects the circuit in which it is located when activated.

[0032] The at least one thermal fuse is activated when exposed to a temperature exceeding its activation temperature. The activation temperature of the thermal fuse can be in the range of 80°C to 100°C. The activation temperature of the thermal fuse can be approximately 90°C.

[0033] The thermal fuse can be activated based on one or more of the following: excessive current flowing through the thermal fuse, exposure to heat generated from the fire extinguishing system, and exposure to heat generated from a fire adjacent to the fire extinguishing device.

[0034] Thirdly, the present invention provides a fire extinguishing assembly for use with a DIN rail, the fire extinguishing assembly comprising: At least one longitudinally extending, substantially closed channel, wherein the channel has a first end and a second end and a longitudinal axis extending in a direction from the first end toward the second end, and wherein the channel defines a passage therein. The channel includes at least one opening to provide fluid communication between the passage and the outside of the channel; Wherein, the passage within the at least one channel is used to contain a fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device, the fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device comprising an aerosol-forming composition or a gas-forming composition, and When the aerosol-forming composition or gas-forming composition of the fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device disposed within the passage burns, the aerosol-forming composition or gas-forming composition expands and is discharged from the passage through at least one opening to extinguish the fire; and The fire extinguishing component is sized to be able to be positioned within the slot of the DIN rail.

[0035] The channel may include a first opening at a first end of the channel.

[0036] The channel may include a second opening at a second end of the channel.

[0037] The at least one channel may further include at least one or more orifices extending through the wall of the channel to provide fluid communication between the passage and the outside of the channel, wherein, when the aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition of the fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device disposed in the passage burns, the aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition expands and is discharged from the passage through the at least one or more orifices to extinguish the fire.

[0038] The at least one or more orifices may extend along at least a portion of the channel in the direction of the longitudinal axis.

[0039] The fire extinguishing assembly may also include a plurality of additional orifices, wherein fasteners are passed through to attach the fire extinguishing assembly to slots in the DIN rail. The additional orifices may be elongated orifices. The additional orifices are spaced apart to align with the mounting holes of the DIN rail.

[0040] The fire extinguishing assembly is formed of metal or metal alloy, polymer material, composite material or a combination thereof.

[0041] The fire extinguishing assembly may further include at least one thermal fuse, wherein the at least one thermal fuse is disposed within the at least one substantially enclosed channel, and wherein the at least one thermal fuse disconnects the circuit in which it is located when activated.

[0042] The at least one thermal fuse is activated when exposed to a temperature exceeding its activation temperature. The activation temperature of the thermal fuse can be in the range of 80°C to 100°C. The activation temperature of the thermal fuse can be approximately 90°C.

[0043] The thermal fuse can be activated based on one or more of the following: excessive current flowing through the thermal fuse, exposure to heat generated from the fire extinguishing system, and exposure to heat generated from a fire adjacent to the fire extinguishing device.

[0044] In a fourth aspect, the present invention provides a fire extinguishing system for use with a DIN rail, the fire extinguishing system comprising a fire extinguishing component according to a third aspect; and a fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device disposed within at least the passageway of the fire extinguishing component.

[0045] The aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition may be a solid fuel aerosol forming composition or a gas forming composition.

[0046] The solid fuel aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition may be a cryogenic solid fuel composition.

[0047] The fire extinguishing system may further include an initiation unit, which is made in the form of a thermochemical igniter, wherein the activation temperature of the thermochemical igniter is lower than the activation temperature of the solid fuel aerosol forming composition or the gas forming composition.

[0048] When the temperature rises due to a fire in or near the system, the temperature rise activates the thermochemical igniter, and the aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition expands and is discharged from the passage to extinguish the fire.

[0049] The fire extinguishing assembly may also include two channels forming two pathways, each of which contains an aerosol-forming composition or a gas-forming composition. Detailed Implementation Background of the Invention

[0051] In the power sector, fires can occur due to malfunctions in electrical installations, malfunctions in electrical equipment attached to electrical installations, overloads, and intermittent failures in materials and equipment.

[0052] In addition, fires may occur due to flammable materials in or near electrical equipment or installations within the facility.

[0053] Such fires can cause severe damage to equipment and can spread throughout a building, factory, or residential home, potentially resulting in loss of life, significant economic losses, and environmental damage.

[0054] To extinguish such fires, there are fire suppression systems that can be thermal or temperature-activated, typically implemented within buildings or infrastructure or protected volumes (such as electrical cabinets), which can automatically extinguish fires.

[0055] This invention relates to extinguishing and controlling such fires, and overcomes the defects and shortcomings of existing technical solutions.

[0056] In the context of this invention, the term "autonomous" means that a device or system can be activated without the need for additional or supplementary devices, such as sensors or other sources.

[0057] Problems recognized by the inventor

[0058] The inventors have recognized several drawbacks of existing systems for extinguishing fires, particularly at, near, or adjacent to electrical installations and equipment supported by DIN rails.

[0059] The inventors have noted that such devices and equipment are typically expensive, and that continuous operation of such devices is important.

[0060] Such devices and equipment are typically located on switchboards and in the power control cabinets of electronic equipment.

[0061] The inventors have noted the following problems and shortcomings of the prior art (i.e., existing fire suppression systems) in terms of fire suppression and extinguishing, and in terms of the protection and maintenance of such electrical devices and equipment: (i) Existing systems are not necessarily located near electrical installations and equipment; (ii) Existing system delays in mitigating or extinguishing fires can damage electrical installations and equipment; (iii) Existing fire suppression systems may not be completely fail-safe because they rely on electronically controlled sensors that may have backup batteries and physical sensors that require water pressure. In the event of sensor failure due to power supply, battery supply, or water pressure loss, such systems may not be able to adequately extinguish fires; (iv) Existing systems require complex infrastructure installation; (v) Existing systems, such as those using fire extinguishing ropes, require specialized installation techniques from professionals and technicians; and (vi) Existing systems need to be maintained, inspected and made to comply with electrical fire safety standards.

[0062] The term "fire extinguishing rope" refers to a rope that is typically threaded through and installed in an electrical cabinet, and includes an aerosol-forming composition or gas-forming composition that activates when a predetermined temperature (e.g., 165°C) is reached, which causes the rope to ignite and release an aerosol or gas, which then extinguishes the fire.

[0063] As will become known, there are many types of "fire extinguishing ropes" with different chemicals for different applications and based on different standards.

[0064] For example, this Class A "fire extinguishing rope" includes older, conventional ropes and newer technologies such as Fipron Cord. TM (Novac 1230) is a rope-type fire extinguisher composed of a composite material containing a mixture of microcapsules and a heating compound. When a fire occurs at any point or at a temperature of 120°C, the heating compound is ignited, and a subsequent chemical reaction occurs along its entire length. This reaction causes all the microcapsules of the extinguishing agent to burst, thus extinguishing the fire.

[0065] Therefore, although other terms exist in the art, the term "fire extinguishing rope" as used in this specification covers and encompasses any type of fire extinguishing rope that provides the function of extinguishing a fire in the manner described, without being limited by the terminology used.

[0066] The problems of the prior art solved by the present invention

[0067] In view of the problems recognized by the inventors above, the inventors have proposed a solution to the above problems (i.e., regarding electrical devices and equipment supported by DIN rails), the solution being: (i) Suppress the fire source immediately and as quickly as possible; (ii) To suppress fire sources without damaging electrical installations and equipment (e.g., control panels) supported by DIN rails; (iii) Used to immediately suppress open flames at the location of the DIN rail, i.e., to protect components attached to the DIN rail; (iv) Where electrical equipment and installations are supported by DIN rails installed within cabinets for electronic or electrical equipment and installations, protection shall be provided within the protected volume; and (v) Used for autonomous protection without requiring electrical sensors, power supplies for activation, water supply, or other extinguishing substances.

[0068] Inventive concept

[0069] According to the present invention, a fire extinguishing system is provided, comprising a DIN rail capable of being attached to a support structure and used to carry one or more electrical devices thereon.

[0070] A DIN rail includes at least one substantially closed channel having a first end and a second end and a longitudinal axis extending in a direction from the first end toward the second end, and wherein the channel defines a passage.

[0071] The channel includes at least one opening to provide fluid communication between the passage and the outside of the channel; The passageway within the essentially enclosed channel is used to contain fire extinguishing compounds or fire extinguishing devices, wherein the fire extinguishing compounds or fire extinguishing devices include aerosol-forming compositions or gas-forming compositions.

[0072] When the aerosol-forming composition or gas-forming composition of the extinguishing compound or extinguishing device installed in the passage burns, the aerosol-forming composition or gas-forming composition expands and is discharged from the passage through at least one opening to extinguish the fire.

[0073] As will be understood, in embodiments of the present invention, the fire suppression system is autonomous, i.e., it does not require actuation or sensors or signals to activate the fire suppression system.

[0074] Furthermore, the system can be considered self-sensing, meaning that when exposed to heat at a relatively low temperature (e.g., 165°C), the aerosol-forming composition or gas-forming composition of the extinguishing compound or extinguishing device will be ignited and burned, causing expansion, and the aerosol or gas will rapidly expand and be discharged from the passage containing the aerosol or gas in order to extinguish a fire on an adjacent DIN rail.

[0075] Advantageously, there are no sensors or external systems that make the system fail-safe, because there are no external systems that could fail and thus render the fire suppression system inoperable.

[0076] Therefore, due to the versatility provided in the form of a DIN rail suitable for carrying fire extinguishing compounds or fire extinguishing devices, the present invention allows the fire extinguishing compounds or fire extinguishing devices to be located at or near the electrical and electronic modules that engage with the DIN rail.

[0077] This invention provides a fail-safe fire extinguishing system that does not damage electrical or electronic modules, and can quickly extinguish fires, such as fires in electrical cabinets, so that electrical or electronic modules are not damaged by the fire.

[0078] DIN rail

[0079] This invention relates to extinguishing fires near or adjacent to DIN rails.

[0080] DIN rails are standard type of metal rails widely used for mounting circuit breakers, fuse modules, electrical installations, and industrial control equipment, typically inside the equipment rack.

[0081] DIN rails are typically made of cold-rolled carbon steel sheet with a galvanized or chromated finish, giving them a bright appearance. Although DIN rails are metallic, they are used only for mechanical support and not as busbars for conducting current. However, DIN rails can provide a chassis grounding connection.

[0082] The term "DIN rail" originates from the original specification published by the German Institute for Standardization (DIN), which has since been adopted as a European (EN) and international (IEC) standard.

[0083] The original concept for the DIN rail was developed and implemented in Germany in 1928, and evolved into the current standard in the 1950s.

[0084] DIN rails can be mounted to support structures and are typically installed in electrical panels and electrical control cabinets for electronic equipment.

[0085] Multiple orifices are provided in the base of the DIN rail to allow it to be attached to the support structure by screws, bolts, fasteners, etc.

[0086] DIN rails are supplied in standard formats, which are: - Top cap section (TH) with a cap-shaped cross-section, O-type or Ω-type, - C-section, and - G-shaped section.

[0087] As an example, see reference Figure 1 (Prior art) shows a cross-sectional view of a top-cap rail according to standard IEC / EN 60715 (European standard EN50022: Specification for low-voltage switchgear and controlgear for industrial use). Mounting rail; 35mm wide top-cap rail for snap-fit ​​mounting of the equipment; (previously: German standard DIN 46277, British standard BS5584).

[0088] In this type of DIN rail, the rail is 35mm wide and is widely used for mounting circuit breakers, relays, programmable logic controllers, motor controllers, and other electrical equipment. The EN 60715 standard specifies depths of 7.5mm (as shown above) and 15mm, and its official name is: - Top cap rail IEC / EN 60715 - 35 x 7.5 - Top cap rail IEC / EN 60715 - 35 x 15 Devices typically mounted on 35mm "top cap" DIN rails are generally measured in "modules" as the width unit, with one module being 18mm wide. For example, a small device such as a circuit breaker may have the width of one module (18mm), while a larger device may have the width of four modules (4 x 18mm = 72mm).

[0089] Equipment enclosures or cabinets typically conform to these module widths, so enclosures with DIN rails can have a capacity of, for example, 20 modules. However, it should be noted that not all installations conform to these module widths.

[0090] As will be known and understood, the dimensions of DIN rails are standard in the art. Therefore, electrical devices attached to DIN rails are manufactured to appropriate dimensions for secure attachment. This can be provided by metal clips including spring-biased elements, wherein four devices have polymer housings comprising an outer portion having biasing portions for clamping onto the rail.

[0091] It should be noted that there are many types of devices that can be attached to and supported by a rail, and may also include devices for communication-related equipment.

[0092] It should also be noted that in some cases, such equipment is quite expensive and is critical to the operation of electrical systems or electrical environments; therefore, protection of such devices is important.

[0093] Now for reference Figure 2 (Prior art) shows the cross-section of another type of DIN rail (C-section rail). These rails are symmetrical within the tolerances given and referenced by standard EN 50024.

[0094] Now for reference Figure 3 (Prior art) shows the cross-section of another type of DIN rail, the G-rail (according to EN 50035, BS5825, DIN 46277-1). G-rails are typically used to hold heavier, higher-power components. They have a deeper side at the bottom, and the device hooks onto the lip and then rotates until it is clamped in the shallower side.

[0095] This invention

[0096] According to the present invention, a fire extinguishing system is provided, comprising a DIN rail capable of being attached to a support structure and used to carry one or more electrical devices thereon.

[0097] A DIN rail includes at least one substantially enclosed passage that extends longitudinally, thereby defining a passage within it.

[0098] The at least one channel includes a plurality of orifices extending through the wall of the channel to provide fluid communication between the passage and the outside of the channel.

[0099] The passageway within the essentially enclosed channel is designed to contain fire extinguishing compounds or fire extinguishing devices, which include aerosol-forming compositions or gas-forming compositions.

[0100] When a fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device installed in the passageway is activated by a fire near or adjacent to the DIN rail, the aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition expands through multiple orifices and extinguishes the fire.

[0101] DIN rails are typically installed inside electrical cabinets, either directly to the cabinet or mounted to the wall via the cabinet, and the cabinets usually provide controlled volume.

[0102] Alternatively, DIN rails can be mounted on the walls of a small room that serves as a control room and access point for electrical modules.

[0103] Typically, by placing the DIN rail in a cabinet or control room, this provides security and safety for electrical components attached to the DIN rail, as those skilled in the art will know.

[0104] Furthermore, as those skilled in the art will know, it is necessary to protect such electrical components attached to the DIN rail in cases where a fire may occur inside, near, or near the DIN rail.

[0105] Such electrical components can be quite expensive, and it is important to protect them from damage in the event of a fire for many reasons, including the timely and cost-effective restoration of the electrical system once the fire is extinguished.

[0106] Advantageously, providing a substantially enclosed passageway to allow the inclusion or containment of fire extinguishing compounds or fire extinguishing devices offers numerous advantages, including: (i) Provides greater response time or speed in the event of a fire originating at or near the DIN rail; (ii) Because the extinguishing compound or extinguishing device is located within the passageway, it provides enhanced protection against physical damage, for example, caused by technicians working inside the electrical cabinet; and (iii) When such extinguishing compound or device is ignited and generates heat, it is protected by being enclosed in a passageway, which insulates the electrical components from fire and heat when the extinguishing compound or device is ignited.

[0107] Fire extinguishing compounds or fire extinguishing devices can be provided in the DIN rail prior to installation, and therefore, the installation of the DIN rail inherently results in the installation of a fire protection system for components subsequently attached to the DIN rail.

[0108] This contrasts sharply with environments that can be protected by fire extinguishing ropes, which those skilled in the art will know are not always present inside electrical control cabinets because they require additional installation and are optional components within the cabinet, in contrast to the always-present DIN rails.

[0109] It should be noted and understood that fire extinguishing compounds or fire extinguishing devices may be supplied with the DIN rail or installed in the passageway after installation.

[0110] Other extinguishing compounds or devices can be autonomous, activating without the need for electrical sensors or other external systems (such as fire ropes).

[0111] In a preferred embodiment, a DIN rail is installed inside the power control cabinet of electronic or electrical equipment or devices, and a fire extinguishing aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition expands inside the cabinet to extinguish any fire inside the cabinet.

[0112] The extinguishing aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition is preferably temperature-activated, and upon reaching a predetermined activation temperature, the extinguishing aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition is activated and expands through a plurality of orifices (which extend through the wall of the channel) to extinguish any fires located adjacent to the DIN rail.

[0113] Therefore, the present invention provides a technical solution to solve the technical problem of functional expansion of fire extinguishing devices based on aerosol-forming compounds or gas-forming compounds.

[0114] According to a first variation of the invention, the claimed invention provides a fire extinguishing device integrated into a DIN rail, including an autonomous fire extinguishing device.

[0115] This fire extinguishing device can be initiated or activated by including a thermochemical igniter.

[0116] According to the present invention, a fire extinguishing system is provided, the fire extinguishing system including a DIN rail capable of being attached to a supporting structure and used to carry one or more electrical devices thereon. The DIN rail includes at least one substantially closed channel having a first end and a second end and a longitudinal axis extending in a direction from the first end toward the second end, and wherein the channel defines a passage therein. The channel includes at least one opening to provide fluid communication between the passage and the outside of the channel; The passage within the substantially enclosed channel is used to contain a fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device, wherein the fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device includes an aerosol-forming composition or a gas-forming composition; and When the aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition of the fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device disposed in the passage burns, the aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition expands and is discharged from the passage through the at least one opening to extinguish the fire.

[0117] The passage may include a first opening at a first end of the passage. The passage may include a second opening at a second end of the passage. At least one passage may also include at least one or more orifices extending through the wall of the passage to provide fluid communication between the passage and the outside of the passage, wherein, when an aerosol-forming composition or gas-forming composition of a fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device disposed within the passage burns, the aerosol-forming composition or gas-forming composition expands and exits from the passage through the at least one or more orifices to extinguish the fire.

[0118] At least one or more orifices may extend along at least a portion of the channel in the direction of at least the longitudinal axis.

[0119] The aerosol-forming composition or gas-forming composition is preferably a solid fuel aerosol-forming composition or gas-forming composition. Preferably, the extinguishing compound or extinguishing device comprises a solid fuel aerosol-forming (AF) composition or a gas-forming (GF) composition and a thermochemical igniter.

[0120] DIN rails with integrated fire suppression systems can be screwed onto the surface.

[0121] In embodiments of the invention, the DIN rail with an integrated fire suppression system is fabricated as two interconnecting elements. These elements together form a DIN rail mount and constitute at least one channel filled with a solid fuel aerosol forming (AF) composition or a gas forming (GF) composition, and a provided thermochemical igniter, wherein the activation temperature of the igniter is lower than the activation temperature of the solid fuel aerosol forming (AF) composition or the gas forming (GF) composition.

[0122] The device proposed in this invention can be provided as an assembly unit made in a single housing, and has functional and structural uniformity.

[0123] The fire extinguishing device proposed in this invention includes a DIN rail consisting of at least one channel and a solid fuel aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition disposed in the channel, which can be installed in a small chamber, housing or cabinet with a limited volume of electrical or electronic equipment or devices.

[0124] Therefore, the present invention is used to suppress and extinguish fires in the installation location with high fire suppression efficiency, and advantageously realizes an unlimited number of connection options for modular fire suppression systems.

[0125] This invention is also used to expand the functionality of modular fire suppression systems.

[0126] Compared to powder, carbon dioxide, and foam compositions, aerosol-forming compositions have no limitations in terms of the power and voltage of the protected electrical equipment and do not adversely affect the electrical or electronic equipment. Therefore, the modular fire suppression system proposed according to the present invention can be installed anywhere in a protected space, such as a room, electrical cabinet, etc.

[0127] An ignition unit in the form of a thermochemical igniter is provided, which allows the extinguishing system to be ignited and activated at a relatively low operating temperature (e.g., 165°C), providing greater versatility and allowing the use of extinguishing systems in the form of DIN rails according to the invention.

[0128] As will also be understood, in embodiments of the invention, the DIN rail may not provide any fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device within the passage, and the fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device (such as a fire extinguishing rope) may then be inserted into the passage after the DIN rail has been installed into the wall or inside an electrical cabinet.

[0129] Therefore, and advantageously, the invention can be readily implemented in existing electrical systems by simply replacing existing DIN rails with the DIN rails of the invention.

[0130] As will be understood, a solid fuel aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition is a cryogenic solid fuel composition.

[0131] According to another embodiment, the technical achievement of the claimed invention enables the use of fire extinguishing devices integrated into DIN rails, including autonomous fire extinguishing devices, which can be ignited by thermochemical igniters.

[0132] This technological achievement is achieved by providing a structure consisting of three components that are connected via a DIN rail: a solid fuel aerosol forming (AF) composition or a gas forming (GF) composition, and a thermochemical igniter.

[0133] DIN rails with integrated fire suppression systems can be mounted on the surface using screws, fasteners, or other devices.

[0134] A DIN rail with an integrated fire suppression system can be provided as three interconnecting elements forming a DIN rail mount and having at least two channels filled with a solid fuel aerosol forming (AF) composition or a gas forming (GF) composition, wherein a thermochemical igniter is applied, and the activation temperature of the igniter is lower than the activation temperature of the solid fuel aerosol forming (AF) composition or the gas forming (GF) composition.

[0135] The device proposed in this invention is an assembly unit that can be provided as a single housing and has functional and structural uniformity.

[0136] The proposed fire suppression device allows for the suppression and extinguishing of fires in the installation location with high fire suppression efficiency, while enabling an unlimited number of connection options for modular fire suppression systems, or expanding the functionality of modular fire suppression systems. Within a limited volume (such as an electrical cabinet with electrical or electronic equipment), the fire suppression device comprises a DIN rail consisting of three elements, and a solid fuel aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition placed within one or more channels.

[0137] Therefore, compared with powder, carbon dioxide and foam compositions, aerosol forming compositions have no limitations in terms of the power and voltage of the protected electrical equipment and do not adversely affect the electrical or electronic equipment. The proposed modular fire extinguishing system can be installed in any location within the protected installation, such as an electrical cabinet.

[0138] In the presence of ignition nodes, such as those provided in the form of thermochemical igniters, this allows for the ignition of fire suppression systems at relatively low operating temperatures (e.g., 165°C), providing greater versatility and allowing for the expansion of fire suppression capabilities for electrical installations using DIN rail-type fire suppression systems. Solid fuel aerosol-forming compositions or gas-forming compositions are cryogenic solid fuel compositions.

[0139] As will be understood, the present invention relates to fires that may affect electrical components associated with DIN rails.

[0140] Reference Appendix Figures 4a to 4c These figures provide exemplary embodiments of the fire extinguishing system according to the present invention.

[0141] refer to Figure 4a In the depicted embodiment, a fire extinguishing system 400a is provided, which includes a DIN rail 410a and a channel member 420a that forms a passage 430a for positioning a fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device therein.

[0142] refer to Figure 4b In the depicted embodiment, a fire extinguishing system 400b is provided, which includes a DIN rail 410b and a channel member 420b forming a passage 430b for positioning a fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device therein.

[0143] refer to Figure 4c In the depicted embodiment, a fire extinguishing system 400c is provided, which includes a DIN rail 410c and a channel member 420c that forms a passage 430c for positioning a fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device therein.

[0144] As will be noted, Figures 4a to 4c The embodiments all have DIN rails of standard size and shape, and the channels are made or formed as an additional part that does not affect the overall standard size of such top-cap DIN rails, and therefore does not hinder the attachment or engagement of the module with the DIN rail.

[0145] As will be noted, Figure 4a and Figure 4b The embodiments have only one channel; however, they can also have additional channels on opposite sides.

[0146] It will also be noted that Figure 4c The embodiment has two channels that form two pathways.

[0147] It should be noted and understood that the present invention covers many alternatives and variations of the channel, which can be used in, for example... Figure 4a and Figure 4b On the back side of the DIN rail, as shown Figure 4c Any combination thereof, having one or more channels in the groove, or on both the front and back sides.

[0148] Regardless of the location or number of channels, any such DIN rail should be understood to fall within the scope of this invention.

[0149] Now for reference Figure 5The diagram shows a first embodiment of a fire extinguishing system 500 according to the present invention, which is in the form of a DIN rail 510 and a fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device 520, wherein the fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device 520 includes an aerosol forming composition or a gas forming composition.

[0150] The DIN rail 500 includes a support portion 501 of the DIN rail 510 and a channel forming portion 502 of the DIN rail 510, which forms a substantially enclosed channel 511. In this embodiment, the extinguishing compound or extinguishing device 520 includes a solid fuel aerosol forming composition or a gas forming composition 503, and a thermochemical igniter 504 disposed in the substantially enclosed channel 511 is shown.

[0151] The support portion 501 and the channel forming portion 502 of the DIN rail 510 are connected to each other, for example, by argon arc welding or by spot welding. In other embodiments, the support portion 501 and the channel forming portion 502 of the DIN rail 510 may be integrally formed, for example, by an extrusion process.

[0152] The support portion 501 and the channel forming portion 502 of the DIN rail 510 provide at least one substantially enclosed channel 511, which provides a passageway into which a solid fuel aerosol forming compound or a gas forming compound 503 can be placed, and into which a thermochemical igniter is applied to its surface 504. The entire structure of the DIN rail 510 is typically screwed into a protected volume, and modular electrical components, not shown, are mounted thereon.

[0153] A plurality of orifices 506, 507, 508, and 509 are provided, which extend through the wall of the substantially closed channel 511 to provide fluid communication from inside the substantially closed channel 511 to the outside of the substantially closed channel 511.

[0154] It should be noted that multiple orifices may exist on one or more faces, and although only one orifice exists on each of the four faces to provide fluid communication as depicted in this embodiment, a number of orifices or combinations thereof forming multiple orifices may exist on one or more of the four faces, all of which will be considered to fall within the scope of the invention and can be deduced from the figures shown.

[0155] It should also be noted that, alternatively, connections can be provided via TIG welding (tungsten inert gas welding) or MG welding (metal inert gas welding). Furthermore, DIN rails can be provided as extruded parts, as integrally formed components, without requiring any connections.

[0156] In the event of a fire in a protected volume equipped with DIN rail 500, the temperature begins to rise. For example, when the temperature reaches 165°C, this temperature activates the thermochemical igniter 504, which in turn activates the solid fuel aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition 503.

[0157] When the solid fuel aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition 503 is burned, flame inhibitors such as KCl (potassium chloride) are released through orifices 506, 507, 508, and 509, which causes active suppression and extinguishing of fires inside the protected volume.

[0158] Now for reference Figure 6 The figure shows a second embodiment of a fire extinguishing system 600 according to the present invention, which, according to the present invention, comprises a DIN rail 610 and two fire extinguishing compounds or fire extinguishing devices 620, the fire extinguishing compounds or fire extinguishing devices 620 comprising aerosol forming compositions or gas forming compositions.

[0159] The diagram shows a support portion 601 of a DIN rail 610, a first channel forming portion 602 forming a substantially enclosed channel 611 of the DIN rail 610, a second channel forming portion 605 forming a substantially enclosed channel 612 of the DIN rail, and solid fuel aerosol forming compositions or gas forming compositions 603a and 603b respectively disposed in substantially enclosed channels 611 and 612, and thermochemical igniters 604a and 604b.

[0160] The support portion 601, the first channel forming portion 602, and the second channel forming portion 605 of the DIN rail 610 can be connected to each other, for example, by argon arc welding or by spot welding.

[0161] When the support portion 601, the first channel forming portion 602, and the second channel forming portion 605 of the DIN rail 610 are connected, at least two internal channels 611 and 612 are formed. Solid fuel aerosol forming compositions or gas forming compositions 603a and 603b are placed in these at least two internal channels 611 and 612, where thermochemical igniters 604a and 604b are applied to their surfaces. The entire structure is typically mounted with screws inside a protected volume, and modular electrical devices mounted thereon are not shown.

[0162] A plurality of orifices 606, 607, 608, and 609 are provided, which extend through the wall of the channel to provide fluid communication from inside the passage of the channel 611 and 612 to the outside of the channel 611 and 612.

[0163] It should be noted that multiple orifices may exist on one or more faces, and although only one orifice exists on each of the four faces to provide fluid communication as depicted in this embodiment, a number of orifices or combinations thereof forming multiple orifices may exist on one or more of the four faces, all of which will be considered to fall within the scope of the invention and can be deduced from the figures shown.

[0164] In the event of a fire in the protected volume containing DIN rail 610, such as an electrical cabinet that houses and supports electrical modules connected to and supported by DIN rail 610, the temperature will begin to rise.

[0165] For example, when the temperature reaches 165°C, this activates thermochemical igniters 604a and 604b, which in turn activate solid fuel aerosol forming compositions or gas forming compositions 603a and 603b. When the solid fuel aerosol forming compositions or gas forming compositions 603a and 603b burn, flame inhibitors (e.g., KCl (potassium chloride)) are released through orifices 606, 607, 608, and 609, which actively suppresses fire within the protected volume.

[0166] It should also be noted that, alternatively, connections can be provided via TIG or MG welding. Furthermore, DIN rails can be configured as extruded parts, forming a single, integral component without requiring any connections.

[0167] Now for reference Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of the fire extinguishing system 700 according to the present invention is shown.

[0168] Similar to a reference Figure 5 As described, the fire extinguishing system 700 is provided in the form of a DIN rail 710 and a fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device 720 disposed in the DIN rail 710 according to the invention, the fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device 720 comprising an aerosol forming composition or a gas forming composition, and the channel forming portion 702 of the DIN rail 710 forming a substantially closed channel 711.

[0169] The DIN rail 700 includes a support portion 701 of the DIN rail 710 and a channel forming portion 702 of the DIN rail 710 forming a substantially enclosed channel 711.

[0170] In this embodiment, the extinguishing compound or extinguishing device 720 includes a solid fuel aerosol forming composition or a gas forming composition 703, and a thermochemical igniter 704 is shown in a substantially enclosed channel 711.

[0171] Similarly, as in the foregoing embodiments, a plurality of orifices 706, 707, 708, 709 are provided, which extend through the wall of the channel to provide fluid communication from inside the channel to the outside of the channel 711.

[0172] As will be understood, by Figure 7 The described embodiment is operationally similar to the reference. Figure 5 and Figure 6 The embodiments shown and described are equivalent and functionally identical.

[0173] In this embodiment, the fire extinguishing system 700 also includes at least one thermal fuse 730, which may also be located in or near the substantially enclosed passage 711.

[0174] At least one thermal fuse 730 may be configured to be electrically connected between the power supply system or any electrical device or component and the connector 736, directly or indirectly (e.g., via a relay circuit) through conductors 732 and 734.

[0175] As will be noted, at least one thermal fuse 730 is configured to be electrically connected in series with conductors 732, 734.

[0176] The thermal fuse 730 is a known device or component in the electrical field that can conduct current and, when heated to an activation temperature of, for example, 90°C, breaks the circuit.

[0177] Similarly, if the current flowing through a thermal fuse exceeds the operating current of the thermal fuse, the thermal fuse can disconnect the circuit.

[0178] If the nominal value of a thermal fuse is, for example, 16 amps, the thermal fuse can disconnect the circuit when the current flowing through it exceeds its nominal value (e.g., 300 amps due to a short circuit).

[0179] In the event of a fire, when the temperature outside the fire suppression system 700 rises to a critical level (e.g., 150°C) due to the fire, the fire suppression system is activated, and the FEA is deployed to extinguish the fire in the operating environment where the fire suppression device is deployed.

[0180] The fire extinguishing system described in the foregoing embodiments can also be deployed in this embodiment, and therefore its operation in the event of a fire is also applicable to this embodiment.

[0181] For example, heat generated by activation or combustion from the fire suppression system 700 can expose the thermal fuse 730 to heat. When exposed to heat, the thermal fuse 730 disconnects the circuit it is in.

[0182] If the electrical installation that has already caused a fire is operationally connected to the thermal fuse 730, it advantageously eliminates the possibility of the device being reignited in the event that the fire was caused by an electrical fault in such device.

[0183] In embodiments of the invention, the thermal fuse 730 can be activated by one or more of the following to disconnect the circuit: (i) Excessive current flowing through thermal fuse 730, (ii) The thermal fuse 730 is exposed to heat generated by the extinguishing compound or the extinguishing device 720, and (iii) Thermal fuse 730 is exposed to heat generated by a fire from an adjacent fire extinguishing system 700.

[0184] As those skilled in the art will understand and recognize, the implementation of this embodiment is equally applicable to all the foregoing embodiments, the substantially enclosed passage 711 of the DIN rail 710, and its configuration for electrical connection between power systems or electrical devices, providing further enhanced security.

[0185] As described above, the electric fuse can be activated and disconnect the circuit in one of the following three ways: excessive current flowing through the thermal fuse 730; the thermal fuse 730 being exposed to heat generated by the fire extinguishing device of the fire extinguishing system 700; and the thermal fuse 730 being exposed to heat generated by a fire from an adjacent fire extinguishing system 700.

[0186] It should be noted that fire suppression systems are generally single-use devices, capable of extinguishing only one fire within the casing. Therefore, in situations where a fire could be caused by an electrical fault, providing a thermal fuse offers additional safety.

[0187] Therefore, implementing the thermal fuse in the manner described in this invention, in conjunction with the fire extinguishing system of this invention, provides a synergistic effect for the following two aspects: (i) preventing or extinguishing fires near fire extinguishing devices; and (ii) preventing reignition or subsequent ignition.

[0188] As will be understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art, at least one thermal fuse described with reference to this embodiment may be implemented in other embodiments of the invention, including those depicted and described in the foregoing embodiments.

[0189] Now for reference Figure 8 The illustration shows another embodiment of the invention, namely, a fire extinguishing assembly 800 according to the invention. In this embodiment, the dimensions of the fire extinguishing assembly 800 are configured to be positioned within a slot 852 of a DIN rail 850.

[0190] The fire extinguishing assembly 800 includes at least one longitudinally extending, substantially enclosed passageway 810a, 810b, in which passageways 812a, 812b are defined.

[0191] At least one channel 810a, 810b of the fire extinguishing assembly 800 includes at least one or more orifices 840a, 840b disposed longitudinally along the fire extinguishing assembly 800 and extending through the wall of the channel 810a, 810b, to provide fluid communication between the passages 812a, 812b within the channel 810a, 810b and the outside of the channel 810a, 810b.

[0192] The passageways 812a and 812b within the substantially enclosed channels 812a and 812b are used to contain fire extinguishing compounds or fire extinguishing devices 820a and 820b, which include aerosol-forming compositions or gas-forming compositions.

[0193] Similarly, as will be understood, with Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 Similar to the embodiments, the thermochemical igniter can also be disposed in channels 810a, 810b, although not depicted in the drawings, but in embodiments of the invention, it can be integrally formed with the extinguishing compound or extinguishing device.

[0194] When the extinguishing compound or extinguishing device 820a, 820b located in passages 812a, 812b is activated by a fire near or adjacent to the extinguishing component 800 and by a temperature rise caused by the fire, the aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition expands through multiple orifices 840a, 840b and extinguishes the fire.

[0195] The fire extinguishing assembly 800 can be attached to a slot 852 in a DIN rail 850 by means of a fastener 830 extending through the fire extinguishing assembly 800. The fire extinguishing assembly 800 may be provided with multiple orifices, which can be similar to those described above. Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 The slotted elongated orifice described in the previous embodiment allows the fastener 830 to pass through it, so that the fire extinguishing assembly 800 is securely attached to the slot 852 of the DIN rail 850.

[0196] Orifices 840a and 840b can be located on any surface of channels 810a and 810b and extend through channels 810a and 810b, and have different sizes and shapes. Therefore, there are no restrictions on the geometry, location, or shape of orifices 840a and 840b. Furthermore, although channels 810a and 810b are depicted as essentially square, they can have any geometry or cross-section, such as semicircle, rectangle, etc.

[0197] Although two channels 810a and 810b are depicted, in some embodiments a single channel may be present, and in alternative embodiments the channels may not have to be the same shape or size.

[0198] As those skilled in the art will understand and recognize, DIN rails are standard conformal articles and have multiple orifices or slots in their grooves to allow DIN rails to be attached to electrical cabinets or walls.

[0199] The orifice 825 provided in the fire extinguishing assembly 800 to allow the fastener 830 to pass through can be configured to align with the orifice of the DIN rail, and thus the same fastener 830 can be used to secure the fire extinguishing assembly 800 in the groove 852 of the DIN rail and to secure the DIN rail to an electrical cabinet or to a wall.

[0200] Therefore, advantageously, the fire extinguishing assembly 800 of the present invention can be easily retrofitted into environments where DIN rails already exist and installed within the slots of existing DIN rails. This can be achieved by simply unfastening the modules fixed to the DIN rail and then, as appropriate, using the same fasteners or holes to install the fire extinguishing assembly 800 into the slots of the DIN rail. Thus, the fire extinguishing assembly 800 can be easily installed in existing environments without replacing the existing DIN rails.

[0201] Similarly, as described in the foregoing embodiments, the aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition may be provided together with the fire extinguishing assembly 800 or may be inserted independently into the fire extinguisher assembly 800.

[0202] The fire extinguishing assembly 800 may be formed of metal or metal alloy, or alternatively, may be formed of polymer material.

[0203] Now for reference Figure 9 , showed Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the present invention, namely, the fire extinguishing assembly 900 according to the present invention.

[0204] and Figure 8 Similar to the previous embodiment, in this embodiment, the size of the fire extinguishing assembly 900 is set so that it can be positioned in a slot in the DIN.

[0205] The fire extinguishing assembly 900 includes at least one longitudinally extending, substantially closed channel 910a, 910b that defines passageways 912a, 912b therein, and includes at least one plurality of orifices 940a, 940b disposed longitudinally along the fire extinguishing assembly 900 and extending through the walls of the channels 910a, 910b to provide fluid communication between the passageways 912a, 912b within the channels 910a, 910b and the outside of the channels 910a, 910b.

[0206] Fire extinguishing compounds or fire extinguishing devices 920a and 920b, including aerosol-forming compositions or gas-forming compositions, are disposed in channels 910a and 910b, and thermochemical igniters may also be disposed in channels 810a and 810b, although not depicted in the drawings, but in embodiments of the present invention, they may be integrally formed with the fire extinguishing compounds or fire extinguishing devices.

[0207] This embodiment is operationally equivalent to and similar to... Figure 8 The described embodiment extinguishes the fire in the same manner as described.

[0208] In this embodiment, the fire extinguishing assembly 900 also includes at least one thermal fuse 930a, 930b, which may also be located in or near the substantially enclosed passages 910a, 910b.

[0209] At least one thermal fuse 930a, 930b may be configured to be electrically connected between the power system or any electrical device or component and connector 936a directly or indirectly (e.g., via a relay circuit) through conductors 932a, 934a, and to be electrically connected between the power system or any electrical device or component and connector 936b directly or indirectly (e.g., via a relay circuit) through conductors 932b, 934b.

[0210] As will be noted, at least one thermal fuse 930a, 930b is configured to be electrically connected in series with conductors 932a, 934a and 932b, 934b.

[0211] Thermal fuses 930a and 930b are referenced above. Figure 7 The shown and described circuits are functionally equivalent and similar, and the thermal fuse 730 can be activated by one or more of the following triggers to disconnect the circuit: (i) Excessive current flowing through thermal fuses 930a and 930b (ii) Thermal fuses 930a and 930b are exposed to heat generated by extinguishing compounds or extinguishing devices 920a and 920b, and (iii) Thermal fuses 930a and 930b are exposed to heat generated by a fire in the adjacent fire extinguishing assembly 900.

[0212] As will be understood and recognized by those skilled in the art, the implementation of this embodiment is equally applicable to all the foregoing embodiments, i.e., DIN rails or those intended for use with DIN rails, and is configured to provide electrical connectivity between power systems or electrical devices, providing further enhanced safety.

[0213] As described above, the electric fuse can be activated and disconnect the circuit in one of the following three ways: due to excessive current flowing through the thermal fuses 930a and 930b; thermal fuses 930a and 930b being exposed to heat generated from the fire extinguishing system of the fire extinguishing assembly 900; and thermal fuses 930a and 930b being exposed to heat generated from a fire in a neighboring fire extinguishing assembly 900.

[0214] As will be understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art, although two thermal fuses are depicted in this embodiment, in other or alternative embodiments, depending on the requirements of the apparatus, one or more thermal fuses may be present.

[0215] The advantages provided by this aspect of the invention are the same as those discussed above, including fire extinguishing compositions or devices with adjacent DIN rail positioning, and the advantages discussed above.

[0216] Furthermore, advantageously, providing a substantially enclosed passageway to allow the inclusion or containment of fire extinguishing compounds or fire extinguishing devices offers numerous advantages, including: (i) Provides greater response time or speed in the event of a fire originating at or near the DIN rail; (ii) Because the extinguishing compound or extinguishing device is located within the passageway, it provides enhanced protection against physical damage, for example, caused by technicians working inside the electrical cabinet; and (iii) When such extinguishing compound or device is ignited and generates heat, it is protected by being enclosed in a passageway, which insulates the electrical components from fire and heat when the extinguishing compound or device is ignited.

Claims

1. A DIN rail capable of being attached to a supporting structure and used to carry one or more electrical devices thereon. in, The DIN rail includes at least one substantially closed channel having a first end and a second end and a longitudinal axis extending in a direction from the first end toward the second end, and wherein the channel defines a passage therein. The channel includes at least one opening to provide fluid communication between the passage and the outside of the channel; The passage within the substantially enclosed channel is used to contain a fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device, wherein the fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device includes an aerosol-forming composition or a gas-forming composition; and When the aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition of the fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device disposed in the passage burns, the aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition expands and is discharged from the passage through the at least one opening to extinguish the fire.

2. The DIN rail according to claim 1, wherein, The channel includes a first opening at a first end of the channel.

3. The DIN rail according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The channel includes a second opening at a second end of the channel.

4. The DIN rail according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The at least one channel further includes at least one or more orifices extending through the wall of the channel to provide fluid communication between the passage and the outside of the channel, wherein when the aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition of the fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device disposed in the passage burns, the aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition expands and is discharged from the passage through the at least one or more orifices to extinguish the fire.

5. The DIN rail according to claim 4, wherein, The at least one or more orifices extend along at least a portion of the channel in the direction of the longitudinal axis.

6. The DIN rail according to any one of the preceding claims further includes at least one thermal fuse, wherein, The at least one thermal fuse is disposed within the at least one substantially enclosed channel, and wherein the at least one thermal fuse disconnects the circuit in which it is located when activated.

7. The DIN rail fire extinguishing device according to claim 6, wherein, The at least one thermal fuse is activated when exposed to a temperature exceeding its activation temperature.

8. The DIN rail according to claim 7, wherein, The activation temperature of the thermal fuse is in the range of 80°C to 100°C.

9. The DIN rail according to claim 7, wherein, The activation temperature of the thermal fuse is approximately 90°C.

10. The DIN rail according to any one of claims 6-9, wherein, The thermal fuse can be activated by one or more of the following: excessive current flowing through the thermal fuse, exposure to heat generated from the fire extinguishing system, and exposure to heat generated from a fire adjacent to the fire extinguishing device.

11. A fire extinguishing system, comprising: A DIN rail, which can be attached to a support structure and is used to carry one or more electrical devices thereon, wherein the DIN rail includes at least one substantially closed channel having a first end and a second end and a longitudinal axis extending in a direction from the first end toward the second end, and wherein the channel defines a passage therein. The channel includes at least one opening to provide fluid communication between the passage and the outside of the channel; The passage within the substantially enclosed channel contains a fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device, which includes an aerosol-forming composition or a gas-forming composition; and When the aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition of the fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device arranged in the passage burns, the aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition expands and is discharged from the passage through the at least one opening, thereby extinguishing the fire.

12. The fire extinguishing system according to claim 11, wherein, The channel includes a first opening at a first end of the channel.

13. The fire extinguishing system according to claim 11 or 12, wherein, The channel includes a second opening at a second end of the channel.

14. The fire extinguishing system according to any one of claims 11-13, wherein, The at least one channel further includes at least one or more orifices extending through the wall of the channel to provide fluid communication between the passage and the outside of the channel, wherein when the aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition of the fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device disposed in the passage burns, the aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition expands and is discharged from the passage through the at least one or more orifices to extinguish the fire.

15. The fire extinguishing system according to claim 14, wherein, The at least one or more orifices extend along at least a portion of the channel in the direction of the longitudinal axis.

16. The fire extinguishing system according to any one of claims 11-15, wherein, The DIN rail includes two channels forming two pathways, each of which contains an aerosol-forming composition or a gas-forming composition.

17. The fire extinguishing system according to any one of claims 11-16, wherein, The aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition is a solid fuel aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition.

18. The fire extinguishing system according to claim 17, wherein, The solid fuel aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition is a cryogenic solid fuel composition.

19. The fire extinguishing system according to claim 17 or 18, further comprising an ignition unit provided in the form of a thermochemical igniter, wherein, The activation temperature of the thermochemical igniter is lower than the activation temperature of the solid fuel aerosol forming composition or the gas forming composition.

20. The fire extinguishing system according to claim 19, wherein, When a temperature rise occurs from a fire in or near the system, the temperature rise activates the thermochemical igniter, and the aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition expands and is discharged from the passage to extinguish the fire.

21. The fire extinguishing system according to any one of claims 16-20, further comprising at least one thermal fuse, wherein, The at least one thermal fuse is disposed within the at least one substantially enclosed channel, and wherein the at least one thermal fuse disconnects the circuit in which it is located when activated.

22. The fire extinguishing system according to claim 21, wherein, The at least one thermal fuse is activated when exposed to a temperature exceeding its activation temperature.

23. The fire extinguishing system according to claim 22, wherein, The activation temperature of the thermal fuse is in the range of 80°C to 100°C.

24. The fire extinguishing system according to claim 22, wherein, The activation temperature of the thermal fuse is approximately 90°C.

25. The fire extinguishing system according to any one of claims 21-24, wherein, The thermal fuse can be activated by one or more of the following: excessive current flowing through the thermal fuse, exposure to heat generated from the fire extinguishing system, and exposure to heat generated from a fire adjacent to the fire extinguishing device.

26. A fire extinguishing assembly for use with a DIN rail, the fire extinguishing assembly comprising: At least one longitudinally extending, substantially closed channel, wherein the channel has a first end and a second end and a longitudinal axis extending in a direction from the first end toward the second end, and wherein the channel defines a passage therein. The channel includes at least one opening to provide fluid communication between the passage and the outside of the channel; Wherein, the passage within the at least one channel is used to contain a fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device, the fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device comprising an aerosol-forming composition or a gas-forming composition, and When the aerosol-forming composition or gas-forming composition of the fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device disposed within the passage burns, the aerosol-forming composition or gas-forming composition expands and is discharged from the passage through at least one opening to extinguish the fire; and The fire extinguishing component is sized to be able to be positioned within the slot of the DIN rail.

27. The fire extinguishing assembly according to claim 26, wherein, The at least one channel includes a first opening at a first end of the channel.

28. The fire extinguishing assembly according to claim 26 or 27, wherein, The channel includes a second opening at the second end of the channel.

29. The fire extinguishing assembly according to any one of claims 26-29, wherein, The at least one channel further includes at least one or more orifices extending through the wall of the channel to provide fluid communication between the passage and the outside of the channel, wherein when the aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition of the fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device disposed in the passage burns, the aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition expands and is discharged from the passage through the at least one or more orifices to extinguish the fire.

30. The fire extinguishing assembly according to claim 29, wherein, The at least one or more orifices extend along at least a portion of the channel in the direction of the longitudinal axis.

31. The fire extinguishing assembly according to any one of claims 26-30, further comprising a plurality of additional orifices, wherein, The additional multiple orifices allow fasteners to pass through them to attach the fire extinguishing assembly to the slots in the DIN rail.

32. The fire extinguishing assembly according to claim 31, wherein, The other multiple orifices are elongated orifices.

33. The fire extinguishing assembly according to claim 31 or 32, wherein, The additional plurality of orifices are spaced apart to align with the mounting orifices of the DIN rail.

34. The fire extinguishing assembly according to any one of claims 26-33, wherein, The fire extinguishing assembly is made of metal or metal alloy.

35. The fire extinguishing assembly according to any one of claims 26-33, wherein, The fire extinguishing assembly is made of polymer material.

36. The fire extinguishing assembly according to any one of claims 26-33, wherein, The fire extinguishing assembly is made of composite material.

37. The fire extinguishing assembly according to any one of claims 26-36, wherein, The fire extinguishing assembly has two channels that form two pathways.

38. The fire extinguishing assembly according to any one of claims 26-37, further comprising at least one thermal fuse, wherein, The at least one thermal fuse is disposed within the at least one substantially enclosed channel, and wherein the at least one thermal fuse disconnects the circuit in which it is located when activated.

39. The fire extinguishing assembly according to claim 38, wherein, The at least one thermal fuse is activated when exposed to a temperature exceeding its activation temperature.

40. The fire extinguishing assembly according to claim 38 or 39, wherein, The activation temperature of the thermal fuse is in the range of 80°C to 100°C.

41. The fire extinguishing assembly according to claim 38 or 39, wherein, The activation temperature of the thermal fuse is approximately 90°C.

42. The fire extinguishing assembly according to any one of claims 38-41, wherein, The thermal fuse can be activated by one or more of the following: excessive current flowing through the thermal fuse, exposure to heat generated from the fire extinguishing system, and exposure to heat generated from a fire adjacent to the fire extinguishing device.

43. A fire extinguishing system for use with a DIN rail, the fire extinguishing system comprising: Fire extinguishing assembly according to any one of claims 26-42; as well as A fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device, wherein the fire extinguishing compound or fire extinguishing device is disposed within at least the said passage of the fire extinguishing assembly.

44. The fire extinguishing system according to claim 43, wherein, The aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition is a solid fuel aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition.

45. The fire extinguishing system according to claim 44, wherein, The solid fuel aerosol forming composition or gas forming composition is a cryogenic solid fuel composition.

46. ​​The fire extinguishing system according to any one of claims 43-45, further comprising an ignition unit provided in the form of a thermochemical igniter, wherein, The activation temperature of the thermochemical igniter is lower than the activation temperature of the solid fuel aerosol forming composition or the gas forming composition.

47. The fire extinguishing system according to claim 46, wherein, When a temperature rise occurs from a fire in or near the system, the temperature rise activates the thermochemical igniter, and the aerosol-forming composition or gas-forming composition expands and is discharged from the passage to extinguish the fire.

48. The fire extinguishing system according to any one of claims 43-47, wherein, The fire extinguishing assembly has two channels forming two pathways, each of which contains an aerosol-forming composition or a gas-forming composition.

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