Fire extinguishing device, arrangement and method

Abstract

A fire extinguishing device (1) for introducing a pressurized extinguishing fluid, in particular water, into an object to be penetrated, in particular a battery, comprising: at least one longitudinally movable penetrating tool (2), which comprises an extinguishing nozzle (3) which is configured to be flown through by said extinguishing fluid at least when the extinguishing nozzle has been moved inside an object to be penetrated for introducing the extinguishing fluid inside said object; and an actuator (4) configured to move the at least one penetrating tool (2) towards and inside the object to be penetrated, the actuator comprising a pressure chamber (4.1) which is facing away from the penetrating tool, wherein the pressure chamber is actuatable with said extinguishing fluid. The fire extinguishing device (1) comprises a double channel fluid inlet (5) configured to receive extinguishing fluid into separate first fluid channel (6) and second fluid channel (7) arranged in the fire extinguishing device to pass extinguishing fluid respectively to the pressure chamber (4.1) and to the extinguishing nozzle (3) so that the pressure chamber and the extinguishing nozzle are pressurizable independently of each other. A fire extinguishing arrangement and a method.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The invention relates to a fire extinguishing device for extinguishing electric vehicle battery fire. The invention also relates to a fire extinguishing arrangement, and a fire extinguishing method.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Fires involving lithium batteries can be particularly challenging to extinguish, as they can produce intense fires and even re-ignite after extinguishing. This is because chemical reactions within lithium batteries can continue even after the fire has been suppressed. When a thermal runaway occurs, a battery cell is undergoing an unstable chemical reaction that is hard to bring under control. It is important that a lithium battery fire is extinguished carefully with appropriate safety equipment.

[0003] The methods available mainly consist of different ways to limit the spread of the fire and / or to externally cool a battery pack with large amounts of water.

[0004] An extinguisher specifically designed for battery fires in electric vehicles is known to cool the battery of an electric vehicle from below and start an initial extinguishing operation.

[0005] It has been found that the propagation of fire in the battery pack can be stopped by internal cooling with water.

[0006] It is known to penetrate the battery casing with a very high pressure water spray. One tool that can be used is a cutting extinguisher with abrasive and water, and a conventional jet pipe as personal protection for the cutting extinguisher operator. It is also known to penetrate the battery by an extinguishing lance by inserting the lance tip into the battery and filling it with water. Also known is to penetrate the battery pack from underneath an electric vehicle. An extinguishing unit with a penetrating nozzle guidable against the battery can be pushed under the vehicle, for example with a rod.

[0007] There is a need to provide alternative ways of getting extinguishing medium inside the battery that do not impose complex requirements on the equipment.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] An object of the present invention is to introduce a new fire extinguishing device for introducing a pressurized fluid, in particular water, into a battery. An object of the present invention is also to introduce a new fire extinguishing arrangement. An object of the present invention is also to introduce a new fire extinguishing method.

[0009] The invention provides solutions relating to problems associated with fire extinguishing of electric vehicle batteries. The invention helps to cool the battery and to stop thermal runaway in lithium-ion battery cells and modules in a battery housing.

[0010] The fire extinguishing device according to the invention is defined in claim 1.

[0011] The fire extinguishing device for introducing a pressurized extinguishing fluid, in particular water, into an object to be penetrated, in particular a battery, comprises at least one longitudinally movable penetrating tool, which comprises an extinguishing nozzle which is configured to be flown through by said extinguishing fluid at least when the extinguishing nozzle has been moved inside an object to be penetrated for introducing the extinguishing fluid inside said object; and an actuator configured to move the at least one penetrating tool towards and inside the object to be penetrated, the actuator comprising a pressure chamber which is facing away from the penetrating tool, wherein the pressure chamber is actuatable with said extinguishing fluid.

[0012] The fire extinguishing device comprises a double channel fluid inlet configured to receive extinguishing fluid into separate first fluid channel and second fluid channel arranged in the fire extinguishing device to pass extinguishing fluid respectively to the pressure chamber and to the extinguishing nozzle so that the pressure chamber and the extinguishing nozzle are pressurizable independently of each other.

[0013] Preferable further details of the invention are introduced in the following, which further details can be combined individually or in any combination.

[0014] According to an embodiment the double channel fluid inlet comprises: a first inlet channel adapted as part of the first fluid channel and arranged in fluid connection with the pressure chamber ; and a second inlet channel adapted as part of the second fluid channel and arranged in fluid connection with the extinguishing nozzle.

[0015] According to an embodiment the actuator is selected from a group comprising a bellows, a cylinder-piston arrangement, or a telescope arrangement.

[0016] According to an embodiment the double channel fluid inlet comprises outer second inlet channel; and inner first inlet channel which is arranged inside the outer second inlet channel; preferably the first and second inlet channels comprise nested tubes or hoses.

[0017] According to an embodiment the double channel fluid inlet comprises a fire extinguishing hose connector for connecting the fire extinguishing device to a double channel fluid source.

[0018] According to an embodiment the extinguishing device comprises a frame adapted at least partially as a hollow structure forming a fluid space as part of the second fluid channel.

[0019] According to an embodiment the double channel fluid inlet is connected to the frame, and the second fluid channel is in fluid connection with the fluid space.

[0020] According to an embodiment at least one second extinguishing nozzle is mounted on the frame in fluid connection with the fluid space.

[0021] According to an embodiment the frame is arranged at least partially around the actuator, and the at least one second extinguishing nozzle is arranged around the circumference of the actuator.

[0022] According to an embodiment the first inlet channel is mounted through a wall structure of the frame, wherein the connection between the first inlet channel and the wall structure is pressure tight.

[0023] According to an embodiment the first inlet channel, protruding outside the frame, is fluidly connected to the actuator, preferably by means of a first tube and a first adapter mounted on the actuator adapted as a part of the first fluid channel.

[0024] According to an embodiment fluid connection between the fluid space and a second adapter mounted on the actuator is arranged by means of a second tube connection as part of the second fluid channel.

[0025] According to an embodiment the second fluid channel comprises a tube part arranged at least partly inside the pressure chamber and fluidly connected to a tool channel comprised by the penetrating tool, and further to the extinguishing nozzle.

[0026] According to an embodiment the extinguishing nozzles in the frame are sprinkler nozzles.

[0027] According to an embodiment the bottom or underside of the frame is shaped in the form of a sled so that, at least on the side opposite the double channel fluid inlet, the underside of the frame comprises an upwardly curving shape.

[0028] The fire extinguishing arrangement according to the invention is defined in claim 12.

[0029] The fire extinguishing arrangement comprises a fire extinguishing device as described in this description, and a valve unit fluidly connectable to the fire extinguishing device, wherein the valve unit comprises a double channel fluid outlet configured to supply extinguishing fluid into the separate first fluid channel and / or the second fluid channel arranged in the fire extinguishing device during fluid connection to the double channel fluid inlet of the fire extinguishing device.

[0030] Preferable further details of the invention are introduced in the following, which further details can be combined individually or in any combination.

[0031] According to an embodiment the fluid connection between the extinguishing device and the valve unit is established by means of a double channel connecting hose or tube.

[0032] According to an embodiment the valve unit comprises: a primary fluid inlet configured to receive pressurized fluid to pressurize the separate first fluid channel and the second fluid channel; an openable and closable first valve operable to control extinguishing fluid flow into first fluid channel; and an openable and closable second valve operable to control extinguishing fluid flow into the second fluid channel.

[0033] According to an embodiment the double channel fluid outlet comprises: fluidly connected to the second valve an outer second outlet channel; and fluidly connected to the first valve an inner first outlet channel which is arranged inside the outer second outlet channel; wherein the first and second outlet channels are fluidly connectable to the respective first and second inlet channels; and preferably the first and second outlet channels comprise nested tubes or hoses.

[0034] The method according to the invention is defined in claim 15.

[0035] In the method for introducing a pressurized extinguishing fluid, in particular water, into an object to be penetrated, in particular a battery, the fire extinguishing device or the arrangement as described in this description is used in extinguishing and / or cooling said object.

[0036] The penetrating tool actuator, the penetrating tool nozzle, and the extinguishing water nozzles of the extinguishing device can utilize the same low pressure water supply of about 6-10 bar. Only one hose from a fire truck is needed, for example 6-8 bar pressure.

[0037] The extinguishing arrangement may consume fluid about 200 I / min, the bellows a maximum of about 10 liters to be filled.

[0038] The connection hose connecting together the extinguishing device and the valve unit, when pressurized, serves as mounting tool to locate the extinguishing device by the firefighter under the EV.

[0039] Use of low-pressurized water (8-10bar) instead of high-pressurized air (~200bar) makes the device and arrangement safe to use.

[0040] The low profile of the enabled by a bellows as the actuator, allows the extinguishing device to fit under lower cars / no need to lift them up before use. This also makes it easier to store in fire trucks.

[0041] Inbuilt sprinkler nozzles give the options of cooling the battery pack from below without damaging it, or from inside if required.

[0042] No multi-step assembly is required when the device is to be used and is therefore easier and quicker to use, this also means that less familiarization and practice with the tool is required before use.

[0043] The solution utilizes the area of a lifting pad to extract lifting force from low-pressure water. The lifting pad can grow by about 200% from its original position, as opposed to about 60%.

[0044] The solution can be used for more than just battery pack fires, e.g. to cool down and extinguish standard combustion vehicles and engine blocks (car, truck, tractor, etc.).BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] The invention will in the following be described in greater detail by means of preferred embodiments with reference to the attached drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows an example embodiment of a fire extinguishing device with a double channel fluid inlet, Figure 2 shows in detail a double channel fluid outlet of a valve unit, Figure 3 shows an example embodiment of a valve unit, Figure 4 shows an example embodiment of an extinguishing arrangement. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a fire extinguishing device 10. The fire extinguishing device is suitable for fire extinguishing in electric vehicle (EV) battery fires.

[0047] The battery may be formed by a plurality of galvanic cells, comprise a housing, which housing has a housing wall which is at least water-tight against the ingress of water, and the housing wall delimits a housing interior.

[0048] The fire extinguishing device 1 comprises a body 10 for supporting an actuator 4 configured to move a penetrating tool 2 towards an object to be penetrated, in particular a battery of an electric vehicle EV.

[0049] The fire extinguishing device 1 for introducing a pressurized extinguishing fluid, in particular water, into an object to be penetrated, in particular a battery, comprises at least one longitudinally movable penetrating tool 2, which comprises an extinguishing nozzle 3.

[0050] The extinguishing nozzle 3 is configured to be flown through by said extinguishing fluid, used as coolant and / or extinguishing agent, at least when the extinguishing nozzle 3 has been moved inside an object to be penetrated for introducing the extinguishing fluid inside said object.

[0051] The fire extinguishing device 1 comprises an actuator 4 configured to move the at least one penetrating tool 2 towards and inside the object to be penetrated, the actuator comprising a pressure chamber 4.1 which is facing away from the penetrating tool, and the pressure chamber is actuatable with said extinguishing fluid.

[0052] The fire extinguishing device 1 comprises a double channel fluid inlet 5 configured to receive extinguishing fluid into separate first fluid channel 6 and second fluid channel 7 arranged in the fire extinguishing device to pass extinguishing fluid respectively to the pressure chamber 4.1 and to the extinguishing nozzle 3 so that the pressure chamber and the extinguishing nozzle are pressurizable independently of each other.

[0053] According to an embodiment the actuator is selected from a group comprising a bellows, a cylinder-piston arrangement, or a telescope arrangement which can be pressurized with extinguishing fluid to establish a movement for the penetrating tool 2.

[0054] According to an embodiment the double channel fluid inlet 5 comprises a first inlet channel 6.1 adapted as part of the first fluid channel 6 and arranged in fluid connection with the pressure chamber 4.1, and a second inlet channel 7.1 adapted as part of the second fluid channel 7 and further arranged in fluid connection with the extinguishing nozzle 3.

[0055] According to an embodiment the double channel fluid inlet 5 comprises an outer second outlet channel 7.1 and an inner first inlet channel 6.1 which is arranged inside the outer second inlet channel. Preferably the first and second inlet channels comprise nested tubes or hoses.

[0056] According to an embodiment the double channel fluid inlet 5 comprises a fire extinguishing hose connector 8 for connecting the fire extinguishing device 1 to a double channel fluid source such as a valve unit 20 comprising a corresponding connector.

[0057] According to an embodiment the extinguishing device 1 comprises a frame 10 adapted at least partially as a hollow structure forming a fluid space 10.1 as part of the second fluid channel 7. The frame 10 may be a welded metal construction comprising metal tubes connected together.

[0058] According to an embodiment the double channel fluid inlet 5 is connected to the frame 10, and the second fluid channel 7 is in fluid connection with the fluid space 10.1. The second outlet channel 7.1 may be welded to the metallic frame 10.

[0059] According to an embodiment at least one second extinguishing nozzle 11 is mounted on the frame 10 in fluid connection with the fluid space 10.1. Preferably spray nozzles such as sprinkler nozzles are connected to the frame 10.

[0060] According to an embodiment the frame 10 is arranged at least partially around the actuator 4, and the second extinguishing nozzles 11 are arranged around the circumference of the actuator.

[0061] According to an embodiment the first inlet channel 6.1 is mounted through the wall 10.2 of the tube structured frame 10, and the connection between the first inlet channel 6.1 and the wall structure is pressure tight.

[0062] According to an embodiment the first inlet channel 6.1, protruding outside the frame 10, is fluidly connected to the actuator 4, preferably by means of a first tube 6.2 and a first adapter 6.3 mounted on the actuator outer surface adapted as a part of the first fluid channel 6.

[0063] According to an embodiment fluid connection between the fluid space 10.1 and a second adapter 7.3 mounted on the actuator 4 is arranged by means of a second tube 7.2 connection as part of the second fluid channel 7.

[0064] According to an embodiment the second fluid channel 7 comprises a tube part 7.4 which is arranged at least partly inside the pressure chamber 4.1. the tube part 7.4 is fluidly connected to a tool channel 3.1 comprised by the penetrating tool 2, and further to the extinguishing nozzle 3.

[0065] According to an embodiment the bottom or underside 10.3 of the frame 10 is shaped in the form of a sled so that, at least on the side opposite the double channel fluid inlet 5, the underside of the frame comprises an upwardly curving shape 10.4.

[0066] The fire extinguishing arrangement shown in Figures 3 and 4 comprises the fire extinguishing device 1 and a valve unit 20 which are fluidly connectable to each other to form separate adjustable fluid connections in operating selectively the extinguishing nozzles and / or the actuator driving the penetrating tool 2.

[0067] The valve unit comprises a double channel fluid outlet 25 which is during pressurized fluid connection to the double channel fluid inlet 5 of the fire extinguishing device 1 configured to supply extinguishing fluid into the separate first fluid channel 6 and / or the second fluid channel 7 arranged in the fire extinguishing device 1.

[0068] According to an embodiment the valve unit 20 comprises: a primary fluid inlet 15 configured to pressurize the separate first fluid channel 6 and the second fluid channel 7; an openable and closable first valve 16 operable to control extinguishing fluid flow into first fluid channel 6, and further to the pressure chamber 4.1 of the penetrating tool actuator 4; and an openable and closable second valve 17 operable to control extinguishing fluid flow into the second fluid channel 7, and further to the at least one extinguishing nozzle 3; 11 of the fire extinguishing device.

[0069] According to an embodiment the double channel fluid outlet 25 comprises: fluidly connected to the second valve 17 an outer second outlet channel 27.1; and fluidly connected to the first valve 16 an inner first outlet channel 26.1 which is arranged inside the outer second outlet channel.

[0070] According to an embodiment the first and second outlet channels 27.1; 27.2 are fluidly connectable to the respective first and second inlet channels 7.1; 7.2; and preferably the first and second outlet channels comprise nested tubes or hoses.

[0071] According to an embodiment the valve unit comprises a main channel 27 (for extinguishing nozzles) which after the larger valve 17 leads to the second outlet channel 27.2 at the double channel fluid outlet 25.

[0072] According to an embodiment the valve unit comprises a side channel 26 (for operating the penetrating tool 2) which is divided outside from the main channel 27 before the second valve 17. The first valve 16 is located in the side channel 26, which leads back inside the main channel 27 and to the first outlet channel 27.1 at the double channel fluid outlet 25.

[0073] Preferably the main channel and the second valve have a larger cross section than the side channel and the first valve.

[0074] According to an embodiment, during use the valve unit 20 fills the actuator 4, comprising a bellows with the penetrating tool, with pressurized water in a pressure of 8 bar, thus providing a penetrating force equal to lift a load of about 3000 kg.

[0075] The valve unit 20 may be connected directly to the extinguishing device 1 by means of respective connectors 8.

[0076] According to an embodiment the valve unit 20 is connected via a double channel connecting hose 30 to the extinguishing device 1 by means of respective connectors 8 so that the fluid connection between the extinguishing device 1 and the valve unit 20 is established by means of the double channel connecting hose 30. The double channel connecting hose 30 comprises fluid channels and end connections which correspond to the double channel fluid outlet 25 and the double channel fluid inlet 5.

[0077] When pressurized, the connecting hose 30 can be used as a tool for moving the extinguishing device 1 underneath an EV battery. A rigid double channel rod, similar in function as the double channel connecting hose 30, may also be used instead of the hose 30.

[0078] In use, the operator may connect the device 1 to the hose 30 and to the valve unit 20. The valves 16, 17 may be closed and thereafter the valve unit primary inlet 15 may be pressurized. The larger diameter valve 17 supplying extinguishing / cooling water may be opened to straighten the hose 30, in order to push the device thereafter under the EV battery. The spraying fluid from nozzles 3, 11 protects the arrangement 1, 20, 30 and the operator. When under the vehicle battery, the smaller valve 16 may be opened to penetrate the battery with the penetrating tool 2 and the spraying extinguishing nozzle 3.

[0079] The use of the invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed in the figures. The invention can be used in any type of farming arrangement above the ground or on level of the ground, e.g. the farming arrangement may consist of one floor only.

[0080] It will be obvious to a person skilled in the art that, as the technology advances, the inventive concept can be implemented in various ways. The invention and its embodiments are not limited to the examples described above but may vary within the scope of the claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0046]Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a fire extinguishing device 10. The fire extinguishing device is suitable for fire extinguishing in electric vehicle (EV) battery fires.

[0047]The battery may be formed by a plurality of galvanic cells, comprise a housing, which housing has a housing wall which is at least water-tight against the ingress of water, and the housing wall delimits a housing interior.

[0048]The fire extinguishing device 1 comprises a body 10 for supporting an actuator 4 configured to move a penetrating tool 2 towards an object to be penetrated, in particular a battery of an electric vehicle EV.

[0049]The fire extinguishing device 1 for introducing a pressurized extinguishing fluid, in particular water, into an object to be penetrated, in particular a battery, comprises at least one longitudinally movable penetrating tool 2, which comprises an extinguishing nozzle 3.

[0050]The extinguishing nozzle 3 is configured to be flown through by said extinguishing fluid, used as co...

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The invention relates to a fire extinguishing device for extinguishing electric vehicle battery fire. The invention also relates to a fire extinguishing arrangement, and a fire extinguishing method.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Fires involving lithium batteries can be particularly challenging to extinguish, as they can produce intense fires and even re-ignite after extinguishing. This is because chemical reactions within lithium batteries can continue even after the fire has been suppressed. When a thermal runaway occurs, a battery cell is undergoing an unstable chemical reaction that is hard to bring under control. It is important that a lithium battery fire is extinguished carefully with appropriate safety equipment.

[0003] The methods available mainly consist of different ways to limit the spread of the fire and / or to externally cool a battery pack with large amounts of water.

[0004] An extinguisher specifically designed for battery fires in electric vehicles is known to cool the battery of an electric vehicle from below and start an initial extinguishing operation.

[0005] It has been found that the propagation of fire in the battery pack can be stopped by internal cooling with water.

[0006] It is known to penetrate the battery casing with a very high pressure water spray. One tool that can be used is a cutting extinguisher with abrasive and water, and a conventional jet pipe as personal protection for the cutting extinguisher operator. It is also known to penetrate the battery by an extinguishing lance by inserting the lance tip into the battery and filling it with water. Also known is to penetrate the battery pack from underneath an electric vehicle. An extinguishing unit with a penetrating nozzle guidable against the battery can be pushed under the vehicle, for example with a rod.

[0007] There is a need to provide alternative ways of getting extinguishing medium inside the battery that do not impose complex requirements on the equipment.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] An object of the present invention is to introduce a new fire extinguishing device for introducing a pressurized fluid, in particular water, into a battery. An object of the present invention is also to introduce a new fire extinguishing arrangement. An object of the present invention is also to introduce a new fire extinguishing method.

[0009] The invention provides solutions relating to problems associated with fire extinguishing of electric vehicle batteries. The invention helps to cool the battery and to stop thermal runaway in lithium-ion battery cells and modules in a battery housing.

[0010] The fire extinguishing device according to the invention is defined in claim 1.

[0011] The fire extinguishing device for introducing a pressurized extinguishing fluid, in particular water, into an object to be penetrated, in particular a battery, comprises at least one longitudinally movable penetrating tool, which comprises an extinguishing nozzle which is configured to be flown through by said extinguishing fluid at least when the extinguishing nozzle has been moved inside an object to be penetrated for introducing the extinguishing fluid inside said object; and an actuator configured to move the at least one penetrating tool towards and inside the object to be penetrated, the actuator comprising a pressure chamber which is facing away from the penetrating tool, wherein the pressure chamber is actuatable with said extinguishing fluid.

[0012] The fire extinguishing device comprises a double channel fluid inlet configured to receive extinguishing fluid into separate first fluid channel and second fluid channel arranged in the fire extinguishing device to pass extinguishing fluid respectively to the pressure chamber and to the extinguishing nozzle so that the pressure chamber and the extinguishing nozzle are pressurizable independently of each other.

[0013] Preferable further details of the invention are introduced in the following, which further details can be combined individually or in any combination.

[0014] According to an embodiment the double channel fluid inlet comprises: a first inlet channel adapted as part of the first fluid channel and arranged in fluid connection with the pressure chamber ; and a second inlet channel adapted as part of the second fluid channel and arranged in fluid connection with the extinguishing nozzle.

[0015] According to an embodiment the actuator is selected from a group comprising a bellows, a cylinder-piston arrangement, or a telescope arrangement.

[0016] According to an embodiment the double channel fluid inlet comprises outer second inlet channel; and inner first inlet channel which is arranged inside the outer second inlet channel; preferably the first and second inlet channels comprise nested tubes or hoses.

[0017] According to an embodiment the double channel fluid inlet comprises a fire extinguishing hose connector for connecting the fire extinguishing device to a double channel fluid source.

[0018] According to an embodiment the extinguishing device comprises a frame adapted at least partially as a hollow structure forming a fluid space as part of the second fluid channel.

[0019] According to an embodiment the double channel fluid inlet is connected to the frame, and the second fluid channel is in fluid connection with the fluid space.

[0020] According to an embodiment at least one second extinguishing nozzle is mounted on the frame in fluid connection with the fluid space.

[0021] According to an embodiment the frame is arranged at least partially around the actuator, and the at least one second extinguishing nozzle is arranged around the circumference of the actuator.

[0022] According to an embodiment the first inlet channel is mounted through a wall structure of the frame, wherein the connection between the first inlet channel and the wall structure is pressure tight.

[0023] According to an embodiment the first inlet channel, protruding outside the frame, is fluidly connected to the actuator, preferably by means of a first tube and a first adapter mounted on the actuator adapted as a part of the first fluid channel.

[0024] According to an embodiment fluid connection between the fluid space and a second adapter mounted on the actuator is arranged by means of a second tube connection as part of the second fluid channel.

[0025] According to an embodiment the second fluid channel comprises a tube part arranged at least partly inside the pressure chamber and fluidly connected to a tool channel comprised by the penetrating tool, and further to the extinguishing nozzle.

[0026] According to an embodiment the extinguishing nozzles in the frame are sprinkler nozzles.

[0027] According to an embodiment the bottom or underside of the frame is shaped in the form of a sled so that, at least on the side opposite the double channel fluid inlet, the underside of the frame comprises an upwardly curving shape.

[0028] The fire extinguishing arrangement according to the invention is defined in claim 12.

[0029] The fire extinguishing arrangement comprises a fire extinguishing device as described in this description, and a valve unit fluidly connectable to the fire extinguishing device, wherein the valve unit comprises a double channel fluid outlet configured to supply extinguishing fluid into the separate first fluid channel and / or the second fluid channel arranged in the fire extinguishing device during fluid connection to the double channel fluid inlet of the fire extinguishing device.

[0030] Preferable further details of the invention are introduced in the following, which further details can be combined individually or in any combination.

[0031] According to an embodiment the fluid connection between the extinguishing device and the valve unit is established by means of a double channel connecting hose or tube.

[0032] According to an embodiment the valve unit comprises: a primary fluid inlet configured to receive pressurized fluid to pressurize the separate first fluid channel and the second fluid channel; an openable and closable first valve operable to control extinguishing fluid flow into first fluid channel; and an openable and closable second valve operable to control extinguishing fluid flow into the second fluid channel.

[0033] According to an embodiment the double channel fluid outlet comprises: fluidly connected to the second valve an outer second outlet channel; and fluidly connected to the first valve an inner first outlet channel which is arranged inside the outer second outlet channel; wherein the first and second outlet channels are fluidly connectable to the respective first and second inlet channels; and preferably the first and second outlet channels comprise nested tubes or hoses.

[0034] The method according to the invention is defined in claim 15.

[0035] In the method for introducing a pressurized extinguishing fluid, in particular water, into an object to be penetrated, in particular a battery, the fire extinguishing device or the arrangement as described in this description is used in extinguishing and / or cooling said object.

[0036] The penetrating tool actuator, the penetrating tool nozzle, and the extinguishing water nozzles of the extinguishing device can utilize the same low pressure water supply of about 6-10 bar. Only one hose from a fire truck is needed, for example 6-8 bar pressure.

[0037] The extinguishing arrangement may consume fluid about 200 I / min, the bellows a maximum of about 10 liters to be filled.

[0038] The connection hose connecting together the extinguishing device and the valve unit, when pressurized, serves as mounting tool to locate the extinguishing device by the firefighter under the EV.

[0039] Use of low-pressurized water (8-10bar) instead of high-pressurized air (~200bar) makes the device and arrangement safe to use.

[0040] The low profile of the enabled by a bellows as the actuator, allows the extinguishing device to fit under lower cars / no need to lift them up before use. This also makes it easier to store in fire trucks.

[0041] Inbuilt sprinkler nozzles give the options of cooling the battery pack from below without damaging it, or from inside if required.

[0042] No multi-step assembly is required when the device is to be used and is therefore easier and quicker to use, this also means that less familiarization and practice with the tool is required before use.

[0043] The solution utilizes the area of a lifting pad to extract lifting force from low-pressure water. The lifting pad can grow by about 200% from its original position, as opposed to about 60%.

[0044] The solution can be used for more than just battery pack fires, e.g. to cool down and extinguish standard combustion vehicles and engine blocks (car, truck, tractor, etc.).BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] The invention will in the following be described in greater detail by means of preferred embodiments with reference to the attached drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows an example embodiment of a fire extinguishing device with a double channel fluid inlet, Figure 2 shows in detail a double channel fluid outlet of a valve unit, Figure 3 shows an example embodiment of a valve unit, Figure 4 shows an example embodiment of an extinguishing arrangement. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a fire extinguishing device 10. The fire extinguishing device is suitable for fire extinguishing in electric vehicle (EV) battery fires.

[0047] The battery may be formed by a plurality of galvanic cells, comprise a housing, which housing has a housing wall which is at least water-tight against the ingress of water, and the housing wall delimits a housing interior.

[0048] The fire extinguishing device 1 comprises a body 10 for supporting an actuator 4 configured to move a penetrating tool 2 towards an object to be penetrated, in particular a battery of an electric vehicle EV.

[0049] The fire extinguishing device 1 for introducing a pressurized extinguishing fluid, in particular water, into an object to be penetrated, in particular a battery, comprises at least one longitudinally movable penetrating tool 2, which comprises an extinguishing nozzle 3.

[0050] The extinguishing nozzle 3 is configured to be flown through by said extinguishing fluid, used as coolant and / or extinguishing agent, at least when the extinguishing nozzle 3 has been moved inside an object to be penetrated for introducing the extinguishing fluid inside said object.

[0051] The fire extinguishing device 1 comprises an actuator 4 configured to move the at least one penetrating tool 2 towards and inside the object to be penetrated, the actuator comprising a pressure chamber 4.1 which is facing away from the penetrating tool, and the pressure chamber is actuatable with said extinguishing fluid.

[0052] The fire extinguishing device 1 comprises a double channel fluid inlet 5 configured to receive extinguishing fluid into separate first fluid channel 6 and second fluid channel 7 arranged in the fire extinguishing device to pass extinguishing fluid respectively to the pressure chamber 4.1 and to the extinguishing nozzle 3 so that the pressure chamber and the extinguishing nozzle are pressurizable independently of each other.

[0053] According to an embodiment the actuator is selected from a group comprising a bellows, a cylinder-piston arrangement, or a telescope arrangement which can be pressurized with extinguishing fluid to establish a movement for the penetrating tool 2.

[0054] According to an embodiment the double channel fluid inlet 5 comprises a first inlet channel 6.1 adapted as part of the first fluid channel 6 and arranged in fluid connection with the pressure chamber 4.1, and a second inlet channel 7.1 adapted as part of the second fluid channel 7 and further arranged in fluid connection with the extinguishing nozzle 3.

[0055] According to an embodiment the double channel fluid inlet 5 comprises an outer second outlet channel 7.1 and an inner first inlet channel 6.1 which is arranged inside the outer second inlet channel. Preferably the first and second inlet channels comprise nested tubes or hoses.

[0056] According to an embodiment the double channel fluid inlet 5 comprises a fire extinguishing hose connector 8 for connecting the fire extinguishing device 1 to a double channel fluid source such as a valve unit 20 comprising a corresponding connector.

[0057] According to an embodiment the extinguishing device 1 comprises a frame 10 adapted at least partially as a hollow structure forming a fluid space 10.1 as part of the second fluid channel 7. The frame 10 may be a welded metal construction comprising metal tubes connected together.

[0058] According to an embodiment the double channel fluid inlet 5 is connected to the frame 10, and the second fluid channel 7 is in fluid connection with the fluid space 10.1. The second outlet channel 7.1 may be welded to the metallic frame 10.

[0059] According to an embodiment at least one second extinguishing nozzle 11 is mounted on the frame 10 in fluid connection with the fluid space 10.1. Preferably spray nozzles such as sprinkler nozzles are connected to the frame 10.

[0060] According to an embodiment the frame 10 is arranged at least partially around the actuator 4, and the second extinguishing nozzles 11 are arranged around the circumference of the actuator.

[0061] According to an embodiment the first inlet channel 6.1 is mounted through the wall 10.2 of the tube structured frame 10, and the connection between the first inlet channel 6.1 and the wall structure is pressure tight.

[0062] According to an embodiment the first inlet channel 6.1, protruding outside the frame 10, is fluidly connected to the actuator 4, preferably by means of a first tube 6.2 and a first adapter 6.3 mounted on the actuator outer surface adapted as a part of the first fluid channel 6.

[0063] According to an embodiment fluid connection between the fluid space 10.1 and a second adapter 7.3 mounted on the actuator 4 is arranged by means of a second tube 7.2 connection as part of the second fluid channel 7.

[0064] According to an embodiment the second fluid channel 7 comprises a tube part 7.4 which is arranged at least partly inside the pressure chamber 4.1. the tube part 7.4 is fluidly connected to a tool channel 3.1 comprised by the penetrating tool 2, and further to the extinguishing nozzle 3.

[0065] According to an embodiment the bottom or underside 10.3 of the frame 10 is shaped in the form of a sled so that, at least on the side opposite the double channel fluid inlet 5, the underside of the frame comprises an upwardly curving shape 10.4.

[0066] The fire extinguishing arrangement shown in Figures 3 and 4 comprises the fire extinguishing device 1 and a valve unit 20 which are fluidly connectable to each other to form separate adjustable fluid connections in operating selectively the extinguishing nozzles and / or the actuator driving the penetrating tool 2.

[0067] The valve unit comprises a double channel fluid outlet 25 which is during pressurized fluid connection to the double channel fluid inlet 5 of the fire extinguishing device 1 configured to supply extinguishing fluid into the separate first fluid channel 6 and / or the second fluid channel 7 arranged in the fire extinguishing device 1.

[0068] According to an embodiment the valve unit 20 comprises: a primary fluid inlet 15 configured to pressurize the separate first fluid channel 6 and the second fluid channel 7; an openable and closable first valve 16 operable to control extinguishing fluid flow into first fluid channel 6, and further to the pressure chamber 4.1 of the penetrating tool actuator 4; and an openable and closable second valve 17 operable to control extinguishing fluid flow into the second fluid channel 7, and further to the at least one extinguishing nozzle 3; 11 of the fire extinguishing device.

[0069] According to an embodiment the double channel fluid outlet 25 comprises: fluidly connected to the second valve 17 an outer second outlet channel 27.1; and fluidly connected to the first valve 16 an inner first outlet channel 26.1 which is arranged inside the outer second outlet channel.

[0070] According to an embodiment the first and second outlet channels 27.1; 27.2 are fluidly connectable to the respective first and second inlet channels 7.1; 7.2; and preferably the first and second outlet channels comprise nested tubes or hoses.

[0071] According to an embodiment the valve unit comprises a main channel 27 (for extinguishing nozzles) which after the larger valve 17 leads to the second outlet channel 27.2 at the double channel fluid outlet 25.

[0072] According to an embodiment the valve unit comprises a side channel 26 (for operating the penetrating tool 2) which is divided outside from the main channel 27 before the second valve 17. The first valve 16 is located in the side channel 26, which leads back inside the main channel 27 and to the first outlet channel 27.1 at the double channel fluid outlet 25.

[0073] Preferably the main channel and the second valve have a larger cross section than the side channel and the first valve.

[0074] According to an embodiment, during use the valve unit 20 fills the actuator 4, comprising a bellows with the penetrating tool, with pressurized water in a pressure of 8 bar, thus providing a penetrating force equal to lift a load of about 3000 kg.

[0075] The valve unit 20 may be connected directly to the extinguishing device 1 by means of respective connectors 8.

[0076] According to an embodiment the valve unit 20 is connected via a double channel connecting hose 30 to the extinguishing device 1 by means of respective connectors 8 so that the fluid connection between the extinguishing device 1 and the valve unit 20 is established by means of the double channel connecting hose 30. The double channel connecting hose 30 comprises fluid channels and end connections which correspond to the double channel fluid outlet 25 and the double channel fluid inlet 5.

[0077] When pressurized, the connecting hose 30 can be used as a tool for moving the extinguishing device 1 underneath an EV battery. A rigid double channel rod, similar in function as the double channel connecting hose 30, may also be used instead of the hose 30.

[0078] In use, the operator may connect the device 1 to the hose 30 and to the valve unit 20. The valves 16, 17 may be closed and thereafter the valve unit primary inlet 15 may be pressurized. The larger diameter valve 17 supplying extinguishing / cooling water may be opened to straighten the hose 30, in order to push the device thereafter under the EV battery. The spraying fluid from nozzles 3, 11 protects the arrangement 1, 20, 30 and the operator. When under the vehicle battery, the smaller valve 16 may be opened to penetrate the battery with the penetrating tool 2 and the spraying extinguishing nozzle 3.

[0079] The use of the invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed in the figures. The invention can be used in any type of farming arrangement above the ground or on level of the ground, e.g. the farming arrangement may consist of one floor only.

[0080] It will be obvious to a person skilled in the art that, as the technology advances, the inventive concept can be implemented in various ways. The invention and its embodiments are not limited to the examples described above but may vary within the scope of the claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0046]Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a fire extinguishing device 10. The fire extinguishing device is suitable for fire extinguishing in electric vehicle (EV) battery fires.

[0047]The battery may be formed by a plurality of galvanic cells, comprise a housing, which housing has a housing wall which is at least water-tight against the ingress of water, and the housing wall delimits a housing interior.

[0048]The fire extinguishing device 1 comprises a body 10 for supporting an actuator 4 configured to move a penetrating tool 2 towards an object to be penetrated, in particular a battery of an electric vehicle EV.

[0049]The fire extinguishing device 1 for introducing a pressurized extinguishing fluid, in particular water, into an object to be penetrated, in particular a battery, comprises at least one longitudinally movable penetrating tool 2, which comprises an extinguishing nozzle 3.

[0050]The extinguishing nozzle 3 is configured to be flown through by said extinguishing fluid, used as co...

Claims

1. A fire extinguishing device (1) for introducing a pressurized extinguishing fluid, in particular water, into an object to be penetrated, in particular a battery, comprising at least one longitudinally movable penetrating tool (2), which comprises an extinguishing nozzle (3) which is configured to be flown through by said extinguishing fluid at least when the extinguishing nozzle has been moved inside an object to be penetrated for introducing the extinguishing fluid inside said object; and an actuator (4) configured to move the at least one penetrating tool (2) towards and inside the object to be penetrated, the actuator comprising a pressure chamber (4.1) which is facing away from the penetrating tool, wherein the pressure chamber is actuatable with said extinguishing fluid; characterized in that the fire extinguishing device (1) comprises a double channel fluid inlet (5) configured to receive extinguishing fluid into separate first fluid channel (6) and second fluid channel (7) arranged in the fire extinguishing device to pass extinguishing fluid respectively to the pressure chamber (4.1) and to the extinguishing nozzle (3) so that the pressure chamber and the extinguishing nozzle are pressurizable independently of each other.

2. The fire extinguishing device according to claim 1, wherein the double channel fluid inlet (5) comprises: a first inlet channel (6.1) adapted as part of the first fluid channel (6) and arranged in fluid connection with the pressure chamber (4.1); and a second inlet channel (7.1) adapted as part of the second fluid channel 7 and arranged in fluid connection with the extinguishing nozzle (3).

3. The fire extinguishing device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the double channel fluid inlet (5) comprises outer second inlet channel (7.1); and inner first inlet channel (6.1) which is arranged inside the outer second inlet channel; preferably the first and second inlet channels comprise nested tubes or hoses.

4. The fire extinguishing device according to any of preceding claims, wherein the double channel fluid inlet (5) comprises a fire extinguishing hose connector (8) for connecting the fire extinguishing device (1) to a double channel fluid source.

5. The fire extinguishing device according to any of preceding claims, wherein the extinguishing device (1) comprises a frame (10) adapted at least partially as a hollow structure forming a fluid space (10.1) as part of the second fluid channel (7).

6. The fire extinguishing device according to claim 5, wherein the double channel fluid inlet (5) is connected to the frame (10), and the second fluid channel (7) is in fluid connection with the fluid space (10.1).

7. The fire extinguishing device according to claim 5 or 6, wherein at least one second extinguishing nozzle (11) is mounted on the frame (10) in fluid connection with the fluid space (10.1).

8. The fire extinguishing device according to any of claims 5-7, wherein the frame (10) is arranged at least partially around the actuator (4), and the at least one second extinguishing nozzle (11) is arranged around the circumference of the actuator.

9. The fire extinguishing device according to any of claims 5-8, wherein the first inlet channel (6.1) is mounted through a wall structure (10.2) of the frame (10), wherein the connection between the first inlet channel (6.1) and the wall structure is pressure tight; and preferably the first inlet channel (6.1), protruding outside the frame (10), is fluidly connected to the actuator (4), preferably by means of a first tube (6.2) and a first adapter (6.3) mounted on the actuator adapted as a part of the first fluid channel (6).

10. The fire extinguishing device according to any of claims 5-9, wherein fluid connection between the fluid space (10.1) and a second adapter (7.3) mounted on the actuator (4) is arranged by means of a second tube (7.2) connection as part of the second fluid channel (7).

11. The fire extinguishing device according to any of claims 5-10, wherein the second fluid channel (7) comprises a tube part (7.4) arranged at least partly inside the pressure chamber (4.1) and fluidly connected to a tool channel (3.1) comprised by the penetrating tool (2), and further to the extinguishing nozzle (3).

12. A fire extinguishing arrangement comprising the fire extinguishing device (1) according to any of preceding claims, and a valve unit (20) fluidly connectable to the fire extinguishing device, wherein the valve unit comprises a double channel fluid outlet (25) configured to supply extinguishing fluid into the separate first fluid channel (6) and / or the second fluid channel (7) arranged in the fire extinguishing device during fluid connection to the double channel fluid inlet (5) of the fire extinguishing device (1), wherein preferably the fluid connection between the extinguishing device (1) and the valve unit (20) is established by means of a double channel connecting hose (30).

13. The arrangement according to claim 12, wherein the valve unit (20) comprises: a primary fluid inlet (15) configured to receive pressurized fluid to pressurize the separate first fluid channel (6) and the second fluid channel (7); an openable and closable first valve (16) operable to control extinguishing fluid flow into first fluid channel (6); and an openable and closable second valve (17) operable to control extinguishing fluid flow into the second fluid channel (7).

14. The arrangement according to 12 or 13, wherein the double channel fluid outlet (25) comprises: fluidly connected to the second valve (17) an outer second outlet channel (27.1); and fluidly connected to the first valve (16) an inner first outlet channel (26.1) which is arranged inside the outer second outlet channel; wherein the first and second outlet channels (27.1; 27.2) are fluidly connectable to the respective first and second inlet channels (7.1; 7.2); and preferably the first and second outlet channels comprise nested tubes or hoses.

15. A method for introducing a pressurized extinguishing fluid, in particular water, into an object to be penetrated, in particular a battery, characterized by using the fire extinguishing device (1) according to any of claims 1-11 or the arrangement according to any of claims 12-14 in extinguishing and / or cooling said object.

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