Mobile elevated fire suppression apparatus

Abstract

A mobile apparatus for fighting or suppressing fires includes a platform and a base mounted on the platform. A mast may extend from the base, with the mast including one or more mast segments. The mast may be transitioned between a substantially horizontal orientation and a substantially vertical orientation. In addition, the mast segments are capable of telescoping extension and retraction so that a height of the mast may be adjusted. A crown is mounted at the top of the mast, with a nozzle provided on the crown. The nozzle is connected by a hose to a water pump on the platform. The orientation of the crown may be adjusted, thereby adjusting the angle of water delivery by the nozzle.

Description

MOBILE ELEVATED FIRE SUPPRESSION APPARATUSCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to United States Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 632,328 filed 10 April 2024, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to fire suppression systems. In particular, the present disclosure relates to an elevated mobile apparatus that may be transported to remote locations for fighting or suppressing fires.BACKGROUND

[0003] Forest fires and other types of wildfires (such as grass fires and bush fires) are a serious environmental concern, especially when encroaching on or penetrating urban areas. With increasingly dry conditions in some parts of the world, forest fires and wildfires may burn uncontrollably over hundreds or thousands of acres. Damage to property and even loss of life may result as the fires burn unpredictably and out of control. Current methods of fighting such fires (such as, for example, creating fire breaks, setting backfires and aerial drops of fire suppressant) have limited effectiveness, particularly when the fires are burning out of control.

[0004] There is therefore a need for improved systems for timed and targeted suppressing and fighting fires generally, and in particular, for suppressing and fighting forest fires or wildfires, including at the wildland / urban interface.SUMMARY

[0005] A mobile apparatus for fighting or suppressing fires comprises a platform and a base mounted on the platform. A mast may extend from the base, with the mastIcomprising one or more mast segments. The mast may be transitioned between a substantially horizontal orientation and a substantially vertical orientation. In addition, the mast segments are capable of telescoping extension and retraction so that a height of the mast may be adjusted. A crown is mounted at the top of the mast, with a nozzle provided on the crown. The nozzle is connected by a hose to a water pump on the platform. The orientation of the crown may be adjusted, thereby adjusting the angle of water delivery by the nozzle.

[0006] The base may comprise one or more outriggers that are configured to pivot outwardly. The outriggers provide additional support and stability for the apparatus.

[0007] In one embodiment, an apparatus for delivering water comprises a platform, one or more axles, a plurality of wheels, a base, a water pump, a hose, one or more outriggers, and a mast. The platform comprises first and second platform surfaces. The one or more axles are mounted on the second platform surface. The plurality of wheels is mounted on each of the one or more axles. The base is mounted on the first platform surface. The hose extends from the water pump. The one or more outriggers are pivotally connected to the base. Each of the one or more outriggers is configured to pivot in a first plane substantially parallel to the platform. The mast is pivotally connected to the base, and the mast is configured to pivot in a second plane substantially perpendicularly to the platform. The mast comprises a plurality of mast segments and a crown. The hose is configured to extend through the plurality of mast segments. The plurality of mast segments is configured to substantially nest within each other when the apparatus is in a transport configuration, and at least one of the plurality of mast segments is configured to extend telescopically away from the base when the apparatus is in a deployed configuration. The crown is attached to an upper end of the mast. The crown comprises a crown base, a hose connector, a crown plate, a plurality of crown actuators, and a nozzle. The crown base is attached to the upper end of the mast. The hose connector configured to connect to the hose. The crown plate comprises a crown plate opening through which the hose extends. Each of the crown actuators is attached to the crown base and pivotally connected to the crown plate. A length of each of the crown actuators may be individually controlled to adjust an angular orientation of the crown plate with respect to thecrown base. The nozzle extends from the crown plate and is configured to receive water from the hose connector for delivery.

[0008] In another embodiment, the crown further comprises a truss and a truss plate. The truss extends from the crown plate and comprises a truss hose portion connected to the hose connector. The truss plate is mounted to one end of the truss. The nozzle is mounted to the truss plate and connected to the truss hose portion.

[0009] In yet another embodiment, each of the plurality of mast segments have a different width.

[0010] In a further embodiment, each of the plurality of mast segments is configured to slidably engage with at least one other one of the plurality of mast segments.

[0011] In still a further embodiment, at least one of the plurality of mast segments comprises one or more locking units. Each of the locking units comprises a locking plate and a locking actuator. The locking plate is pivotally connected to the at least one of the plurality of mast segments. The locking actuator is attached to the locking plate and to at least one of the plurality of mast segments, and the locking actuator is configured to transition the locking plate between a first orientation where the locking plate is substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the at least one of the plurality of mast segments and a second orientation where the locking plate is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the at least one of the plurality of mast segments.

[0012] In another embodiment, in the second orientation, the locking plate extends into an interior of the at least one of the plurality of mast segments and engages with a lower end of at least other one of the plurality of mast segments.

[0013] In still another embodiment, the apparatus further comprises one or more levelling units located proximate to a perimeter of the platform. Each of the levelling units comprises a levelling unit actuator and a lift base attached to one end of the levelling unit actuator. The levelling unit actuator is configured extend in a direction perpendicular to the platform.

[0014] In a further embodiment, the apparatus further comprises one or more guywires. When the apparatus is in the deployed configuration, the one or more outriggers pivot away from the platform and at least one of the one or more guywires extend from the mast to one of the outriggers.

[0015] In yet another embodiment, each of the one or more outriggers comprises an outrigger arm extending from the base and an outrigger support attached proximate to one end of the outrigger arm. The outrigger support comprises an outrigger support housing, an outrigger arm configured to extend from the outrigger support housing, and an outrigger base removably attached to one end of the outrigger arm. The outrigger arm is configured to extend from the outrigger support housing until the outrigger base engages a surface on which the apparatus is located.

[0016] In one embodiment, a nozzle assembly for attachment to a hose for delivering water comprises a first nozzle hose portion attached to the hose; a second nozzle hose portion connected to the first nozzle hose portion, where the first and second nozzle hose portions are adapted to rotate with respect to each other; a nozzle connected to the second nozzle hose portion; a nozzle motor connected to the first nozzle hose portion; a nozzle plate attached to the second nozzle hose portion, where the nozzle motor is configured to engage with the nozzle plate to effect rotation of the nozzle plate; a lever, where the lever is pivotally connected to the nozzle plate and to the second nozzle hose portion; and a linear actuator. One end of the linear actuator is pivotally connected to the nozzle plate. Another end of the linear actuator is pivotally connected to the lever. The linear actuator is configured to change its length to vary a vertical angle of the nozzle.

[0017] In another embodiment, the nozzle motor comprises a pinion. The nozzle plate comprises a gearwheel with a plurality of teeth for engagement with the pinion, and rotation of the pinion effects rotation of the nozzle plate.

[0018] In still another embodiment, the nozzle assembly further comprises a motor support attached to the first nozzle hose portion, and the nozzle motor is mounted to the motor support.

[0019] In a further embodiment, the nozzle assembly further comprises an actuator support mounted to the nozzle plate, and the linear actuator is pivotally connected to the nozzle plate through the actuator support.

[0020] The foregoing was intended as a summary only and of only some of the aspects. It was not intended to define the limits or requirements of the present disclosure. Other aspects will be appreciated by reference to the detailed description set out below.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0021] The embodiments of the present disclosure will be described by reference to the drawings thereof, in which:

[0022] Fig. 1 depicts an embodiment of the apparatus in a transport configuration, as viewed from the top;

[0023] Fig. 2 depicts the apparatus in a transport configuration, as viewed from the bottom;

[0024] Fig. 3 is a partial view of Fig. 1 ;

[0025] Fig. 4 depicts an embodiment of the apparatus in a deployed configuration;

[0026] Fig. 5 is a partial view of Fig. 4, depicting the base;

[0027] Fig. 6 is a partial view of Fig. 4, depicting portions of the first and second mast segments;

[0028] Fig. 7 is a partial view of Fig. 4, depicting portions of the second and third mast segments;

[0029] Fig. 8 is a partial view of Fig. 4, depicting portions of the third and fourth mast segments;06 June 2025 (06-06-2025)

[0030] Fig. 9 is a partial view of Fig. 4, depicting a portion of the fourth mast segment;

[0031] Fig. 10 depicts another embodiment of the crown assembly;

[0032] Fig. 11 depicts another embodiment of the crown assembly;

[0033] Fig. 12 is a front view of Fig. 11 ;

[0034] Fig. 13 depicts another embodiment of the nozzle assembly; and

[0035] Fig. 14 is a side view of Fig. 13.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] Referring to Figs. 1 to 5, an apparatus 10 for pre-suppressing, suppressing, and / or post-suppressing fires comprises a platform 12 and a water pump 14 mounted on the platform 12. In some embodiments, the platform 12 may be substantially flat. In other embodiments, at least a portion of the platform 12 may be flat. The platform 12 may comprise first and second platform surfaces 18, 20. The water pump 14 may be mounted on the first platform surface 18.

[0037] The apparatus 10 may be configured to transition between a transport configuration (as shown in Fig. 1 ) and a deployed configuration (as shown in Fig. 4), and vice versa. When the apparatus 10 is in the transport configuration, the apparatus is able to be moved or transported. When the apparatus 10 is in the deployed configuration, the apparatus 10 may be used to deliver water (e.g. to a fire, etc.).

[0038] The apparatus 10 may further comprise a plurality of wheels 22 mounted on axles 24 that are attached to the second platform surface 20, as best shown in Fig.2. The wheels 22 and axles 24 allow the apparatus 10 to be moved and transported to other locations by roadway or by some other path. In some embodiments, the apparatus 10 may be towed by an external vehicle. For example, the platform 12 may comprise a connector 26 that is adapted to couple to the external vehicle fortowing. In other embodiments, the apparatus 10 may comprise one or more motors coupled to one or more of the axles 24 that are configured to drive the axles 24 to propel the apparatus 10 without the requirement for the external vehicle.

[0039] In some embodiments, the platform 12 may be attached to a trailer. For example, the platform 12 may be attached to the trailer using pins or some other suitable locking mechanism. The apparatus 10 may also be transported aerially, such as by attachment to a helicopter. In such embodiments, the platform 16 may be unpinned or otherwise unlocked from the trailer to allow for aerial deployment of the apparatus 10 (e.g. to remote locations not accessible by road).

[0040] Referring to Figs. 4 and 5, the apparatus 10 may comprise one or more levelling units 32 attached to the platform 12 and that are configured to lift and support the platform 12 vertically off of a surface 2. The surface 2 may be the ground or some other type of surface (e.g. natural, constructed, etc.). The levelling units 32 may be attached to the platform 12 proximate to a platform perimeter 34 of the platform 12. In some embodiments, the levelling units 32 may be attached to the platform 12 proximate to one or more corners 36 located along the platform perimeter 34. There may be four of the levelling units 32, although it is understood that a greater or a smaller number of the levelling units 32 may also be possible.

[0041] Each of the levelling units 32 may comprise a levelling unit actuator 38 and a lift base 40. In some embodiments, the levelling unit actuator 38 may be a hydraulic cylinder. One end of the levelling unit actuator 38 may be attached to the platform 12 while another end of the levelling unit actuator 38 may be attached to the lift base 40. Each of the levelling unit actuators 38 may be configured to extend and retract along axis A (as shown in Fig. 5). By individually extending and / or retracting each of the levelling unit actuators 38, a relative distance between the surface 2 and the platform 12 proximate to the attachment of the levelling unit actuators 38 may be adjusted. This may allow for the overall angle of the platform 12 to be adjusted (e.g. to allow for the platform 12 to be adjusted to be substantially horizontal when the surface 2 is uneven or sloped). In some embodiments, the levelling units 32 may be configured to automatically self-level the platform 12, such as when the apparatus 10 is placed into the deployed configuration. In some embodiments, the lift bases 40 maycomprise skis or wheels in order to allow for movement of the apparatus 10 even when the levelling unit actuators 38 are extended and when the lift bases 40 are in contact with the surface 2.

[0042] The apparatus 10 further comprises a base 16 that is mounted to the first platform surface 18, with the base 16 extending away from the first platform surface 18. The base 16 may comprise a rectangular metallic frame structure (when viewed from above). The apparatus 10 further comprises one or more outriggers 42 that are pivotally connected to the base 16 at outrigger pivot joints 44 located along a periphery of the base 16. The one or more outriggers 42 may be configured to pivot with respect to the base 16 in a substantially horizontal plane, as depicted by B in Fig. 4.

[0043] When the apparatus 10 is in the transport configuration, the outriggers 42 are configured to lie substantially proximate to and along the platform perimeter 34. When the apparatus 10 is in the deployed configuration, the outriggers 42 are configured to extend away from the base 16, such as in a substantially radial configuration.

[0044] In the embodiment shown in Figs. 1 to 5, the apparatus 10 comprises four of the outriggers 42; however, it is understood that a greater or a smaller number of the outriggers 42 is also possible. Where the apparatus 10 comprises four of the outriggers 42, the outriggers 42 may be pivotally connected to the base 16 at the corners of the base 16.

[0045] Each of the outriggers 42 may comprise an outrigger arm 46 and an outrigger support 48. One end of the outrigger arm 46 may be pivotally connected to the base 16 (i.e. at the outrigger pivot joint(s) 44, while the outrigger support 48 may be attached proximate to the other end of the outrigger arm 46. When the apparatus 10 is in the deployed configuration, one or more braces 28 may be placed between adjacent ones of the outrigger arms 46 to prevent movement of the outrigger arms 46 and to reinforce the outrigger arms 46. In some embodiments, one or more of the braces 28 may also be placed between one of the outrigger arms 46 and one of the outrigger pivot joints 44.

[0046] Each of the outrigger supports 48 may comprise an outrigger support housing 50 and an outrigger support member 52 that is configured to move within the outrigger support housing 50. The outrigger support member 52 may be configured to move within the outrigger support housing 50 along a substantially vertical axis C (as shown in Fig.5). In some embodiments, when the apparatus 10 is in the deployed configuration, the outrigger support members 52 may extend downwardly from the outrigger support housing 50. Furthermore, the outrigger support 48 may comprise an outrigger base 54 attached to the outrigger support member 52 that is configured to come into contact with the surface 2 when the apparatus 10 is in the deployed configuration. By having the outrigger bases 54 contact the surface 2 when the apparatus 10 is in the deployed configuration, the outrigger bases 54 may provide stability to the apparatus 10.

[0047] The outrigger base 54 may be removably attachable to the outrigger support member 52 such that the outrigger base 54 may be attached to the outrigger support member 52 when the apparatus 10 is in the deployed configuration, and the outrigger base 54 may be detached from the outrigger support member 52 when the apparatus 10 is in the transport configuration. In some embodiments, the outrigger bases 54 may also comprise skis or wheels in order to allow for movement of the apparatus 10 even when the apparatus 10 is in the deployed configuration.

[0048] In some embodiments, when the apparatus 10 is in the transport configuration, the outrigger support members 42 may retract into the outrigger support housings 50 (as shown in Fig. 3). By retracting the outrigger support members 42 into the outrigger support housings 50, the outrigger support members 42 are less likely to interfere with the movement of the apparatus 10.

[0049] Referring to Figs. 3 to 8, the apparatus 10 further comprises a mast 56 that is pivotally connected to the base 16 at one or more mast pivot joints 58. The mast 56 may comprise a metallic frame structure that is configured to pivot with respect to the base 16 in a substantially vertical plane, as depicted by D in Fig. 3. For example, when the apparatus 10 is in the transport configuration, the mast 56 may be in a substantially horizontal orientation. When the apparatus 10 is in the deployed configuration, the mast 56 may be in a substantially vertical orientation.

[0050] The movement of the mast 56 between the substantially horizontal orientation and the substantially vertical orientation (and vice versa) may be carried out through one or more mast actuators 60. In some embodiments, one end of the mast actuators 60 may be pivotally connected to the mast 56 while the other end of the mast actuators 60 may be pivotally connected to the base 16. The mast actuators 60 may comprise hydraulic cylinders. For example, one or more of the mast actuators 60 may comprise mast hydraulic cylinders 62 that are configured to extend or retract. When the mast hydraulic cylinders 62 are fully retracted, the mast 56 may be in the substantially horizontal orientation. When the mast hydraulic cylinders 62 are fully extended, the mast 56 may be in the substantially vertical orientation.

[0051] In other embodiments, instead of the mast hydraulic cylinders 62, the mast actuators 60 may use cables to effect movement of the mast 56 between the substantially horizontal orientation and the substantially vertical orientation (and vice versa).

[0052] The mast 56 may comprise a plurality of mast segments 64. Each of the mast segments 64 may comprise upper and lower segment ends 78, 80 and may be form a metallic frame structure that is substantially hollow. Furthermore, the mast segments 64 may have different widths so as to be able to slide within and past each other in a telescoping manner. For example, in the embodiment depicted in Fig. 4, the mast segments 64 may comprise four of the mast segments (i.e. a first mast segment 64a, a second mast segment 64b, a third mast segment 64c, and a fourth mast segment 64d). However, it is understood that a greater or a smaller number of the mast segments 64 may be present.

[0053] When the apparatus 10 is in the transport configuration, the mast segments 64 may be substantially nested within each other. When the apparatus 10 is in the deployed configuration, at least some of the mast segments 64 may extend in a telescoping manner away from the base 16.

[0054] The first mast segment 64a may be the mast segment 64 with the greatest width and may be pivotally connected to the base 16. The mast actuators 60 may also be pivotally connected to the first mast segment 64a. The second mast segment io64b may have a width less than the first mast segment 64a but greater than the third mast segment 64c. The third mast segment 64c may have a width less than the second mast segment 64b but greater than the fourth mast segment 64d. The fourth mast segment 64d may have a width less than the third mast segment 64c. In some embodiments, the respective widths of the mast segments 64 are such that the fourth mast segment 64d is able to, at least in part, slidably engage within the third mast segment 64c, the third mast segment 64c is able to, at least in part, slidably engage within the second mast segment 64b, and the second mast segment 64b is able to, at least in part, slidably engage within the first mast segment 64a.

[0055] Accordingly, the second mast segment 64b may be able to fit within the first mast segment 64a, the third mast segment 64c may be able to fit within the second mast segment 64b, and the fourth mast segment 64d may be able to fit within the third mast segment 64c. The mast segments 64 are configured to extend and retract in a telescoping manner such that when the mast 56 is fully extended or substantially fully extended (as shown in Fig. 4), the height of the mast 56 is approximately equal to the height of the first, second, third, and fourth mast segments 64a, 64b, 64c, 64d. When the mast 56 is fully retracted or substantially fully retracted (as shown in Fig. 1 ), the height of the mast 56 is approximately equal to the height of the first mast segment 64a.

[0056] Each of the mast segments 64 may be between 20 feet and 30 feet. It is understood that varying lengths for the mast segments 64 are also possible. In some embodiments, each of the mast segments 64 are all of approximately the same length. However, in some other embodiments, the mast segments 64 may have varying lengths from each other. In some embodiments, the mast segments 64 may also be tapered.

[0057] The telescoping extension and retraction of the mast segments 64 allows the mast 56 to reach variable heights above the surface 2. The telescoping extension and retraction of the mast segments 64 may be brought about using cables and / or actuators.

[0058] Referring to Figs. 5 to 8, in some embodiments, the mast 56 may comprise one or more mast cables 66 running substantially along the mast segments 64. Themast 56 may further comprise a winch 68 that is attached to one end of the mast cables 66. The winch 68 may be attached to the base 16 or the platform 12 and may be configured to wind up or wind out the mast cables 66. The mast 56 may comprise one or more mast pulleys 70 along which the mast cables run. For example, at least one of the mast pulleys 70 may be located on each of the mast segments 64. The mast pulleys 70 may be located proximate to one or both of the upper segment end 78 and the lower segment end 80 of the mast segments 64. The mast pulleys 70 and the mast cables 66 form a pulley system for extending and retracting the mast segments 64.

[0059] In some embodiments, one of the mast cables 66 may extend from the winch 68, around one of the mast pulleys 70 located proximate to an upper segment end 78 of the first mast segment 64a, and subsequently around another ones of the mast pulleys 70 located on other ones of the mast segments 64 before terminating proximate to a lower segment end 80 of the fourth mast segment 64d. When the winch 68 is made to wind up the mast cable 66, the movement of the mast cable 66 along the mast pulleys 70 may tend to cause the mast segments 64 to extend away from each other, thereby increasing the overall height of the mast 56. When the winch 68 is made to wind out the mast cable 66, the movement of the mast cable 66 along the mast pulleys 70 may tend to cause the mast segments 64 to retract (i.e. the mast segments 64 slide within each other), thereby decreasing the overall height of the mast 56.

[0060] Referring to Fig. 6, which depicts the first and second mast segments 64a, 64b, in some embodiments, one of the mast pulleys 70 (i.e. the mast pulley 70a) may be located proximate to the upper segment end 78a of the first mast segment 64a, and another one of the mast pulleys 70 (i.e. the mast pulley 70b) may be located proximate to the lower segment end 80b of the second mast segment 64b. The mast cable 66 may extend around the mast pulleys 70a, 70b.

[0061] Referring to Fig. 7, which depicts the second and third mast segments 64b, 64c, in some embodiments, one of the mast pulleys (i.e. the mast pulley 70c) may be located proximate to the upper segment end 78b of the second mast segment 64b, and another one of the mast pulleys 70 (i.e. the mast pulley 70d) may be locatedproximate to the lower segment end 80c of the third mast segment 64c. The mast cable 66 may extend around the mast pulleys 70c, 70d.

[0062] Referring to Fig. 8, which depicts the third and fourth mast segments 64c, 64d, in some embodiments, one of the mast pulleys (i.e. the mast pulley 70e) may be located proximate to the upper segment end 78c of the third mast segment 64c. The mast cable 66 may extend around the mast pulley 70e before terminating on the fourth mast segment 64d proximate to the lower segment end 80d.

[0063] Referring to Figs. 5 and 6, the mast 56 may comprise one or more locking units 72 that are located on various locations along one or more of the mast segments 64. In some embodiments, the locking units 72 may be located only on the first mast segment 64a and at various locations along the first mast segment 64a. In other embodiments, the locking units 72 may be located on other ones of the mast segments 64 as well. For example, in some embodiments, the locking units 72 may be located proximate to an upper end of one or more of the mast segments 64. In other embodiments, where, for example, there are four of the mast segments 64, the locking units 72 may be located proximate to an upper end of three of the outermost ones of the mast segments 64.

[0064] The locking units 72 comprise a locking plate 76 that is pivotally connected to an outer periphery of the mast segment 64 through one or more locking plate joints 74. Each of the locking units 72 is configured to transition between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration (and vice versa).

[0065] When the locking unit 72 is in the unlocked configuration, the locking plate 76 may be oriented substantially vertically about the locking plate joints 74 (i.e. substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the mast segment 64). The locking plate 76 may be oriented substantially in line with the periphery of the mast segment 64 such that other ones of the mast segments 64 are able slide past the locking unit 72. In the unlocked configuration, the mast segments 64 are able to extend and retract freely along each other past the locking plates 76.

[0066] When the locking unit 72 is in the locked configuration, the locking plate 76 may be oriented substantially horizontally (i.e. substantially perpendicular to alongitudinal axis of the mast segment 64). The locking plate 76 may extend, for example, into an interior of the mast segment 64 and locked into place (i.e. prevented from further angular movement). The locking plate 76 may provide a base or surface for a lower end of another one of the mast segment 64.

[0067] For example, referring to Fig. 6, if the locking unit 72a is located on the first mast segment 64a, when the locking unit 72a is in the unlocked configuration, the locking plate 76a is oriented substantially vertically, and the second mast segment 64b is able to slide pass the locking unit 72a.

[0068] When the locking unit 72a is placed in the locked configuration, the locking plate 76a is pivoted at the locking plate joints 74a to a substantially horizontal orientation into the interior of the mast segment 64a. The locking plate 76a may then provide a base or surface on which the lower segment end 80b of the second mast segment 64b may rest. When the lower segment end 80b of the second mast segment 64b is resting on the locking plate 76a, the second mast segment 64b is stopped from any further downward movement past the locking plate 76a.

[0069] The resting of mast segments 64 on the locking plates 76 reduces the stress exerted on the mast cables 66, as tension on the mast cables 66 is no longer necessary when the mast segment 64 is resting on the locking plate 76.

[0070] In some embodiments, more than one of the locking units 72 may be provided at various locations along the mast segments 64. For example, Fig. 6 depicts two of the locking units 72a located at opposing sides of the first mast segment 64a, thereby allowing the lower segment end 80b of the second mast segment 64b to rest upon two surfaces, to provide greater stability for the mast 56.

[0071] The locking unit 72 may further comprise one or more locking actuators 82 to transition the locking plate 76 between the substantially vertical orientation to the substantially horizontal orientation (and vice versa). In some embodiments, one end of the locking actuator 82 may be attached to the locking plate 76 and the other end of the locking actuator 82 may be attached to the mast segment 64. The locking actuators 82 may use one or more of hydraulic, pneumatic, or electric actuation.

[0072] The mast 56 may further comprise one or more mast sensors 84 that are configured to detect and / or track the movement of the mast segments 64 during extension or retraction of the mast 56. For example, the mast sensors 84 may comprise proximity sensors mounted at various locations along the mast segments 64 configured to detect and / or track the movement of the mast segments 64. For example, during extension of the mast 56, the locking unit 72a located on the first mast segment 64a may be initially in the unlocked configuration, thereby allowing the second mast segment 64b to slide or move along the second mast segment 64a. When the mast sensors 84 detect that the lower segment end 80b of the second mast segment 64b has moved past the locking unit 72a, the locking unit 72a may be placed into the locked configuration. This would cause the locking plate 76a transition to the substantially horizontal orientation, thereby preventing the lower segment end 80b of the second mast segment 64b from moving down beyond the locking plate 76a.

[0073] Overall control of the extension and / or retraction of the mast 56 may be controlled through a control panel 86. The control panel 86 may be located on the platform 12 or may be located remotely from the apparatus 10.

[0074] Referring to Figs. 4 and 5, the apparatus 10 may further comprise one or more guy-wires 88 that extend from the mast 56 to one or more of the outriggers 42. In some embodiments, the guy-wires 88 extend from the mast 56 proximate to the upper segment end 78 of the innermost one of the mast segments 64 (i.e. the mast segment 64 that will extend the highest above the surface 2). Figs. 4 and 5 depict the guy-wires 88 extending from only some of the outriggers 42. However, it is understood that the guy-wires 88 may extend from any or all of the outriggers 42.

[0075] In other embodiments, the guy-wires 88 may extend from other locations on the mast 56. When the apparatus 10 is in the deployed configuration, the guy-wires 88 may be removably attached to one or more of the outriggers 42, such as proximate to one end of the outrigger arms 46, as shown in Fig. 4. The guy-wires 88 may provide additional stability to the mast 56 when the apparatus 10 is in the deployed configuration. Referring to Fig. 5, the outriggers 42 may further comprise outrigger reels 90 mounted on the outrigger arms 46, onto which the guy-wires 88may be attached. The outrigger reels 90 are configured to adjust the length and tension of the guy-wires 88.

[0076] When the apparatus 10 is in the transport configuration, the guy-wires 88 may be detached from the outrigger arms 46 and stored on the platform 12.

[0077] The apparatus 10 further comprises a hose 92 extending from the water pump 14. The water pump 14 may be configured to accept an external supply of water (such as from a hydrant, a lake, other water reservoir, etc.) and to pump the water into the hose 92. The hose 92 may extend within the mast segments 64 such that when the mast 56 is fully extended, the hose 92 is able to reach at least the upper segment end 78 of the innermost one of the mast segments 64 (i.e. the mast segment 64 that will extend the highest above the surface 2). In view of the telescoping nature of the mast 56, the hose 92 may at times have excess slack (e.g. when the mast 56 is partially or completely retracted). To accommodate this, the hose 92 may be wound around a hose reel 94 mounted on the base 16 or the platform 12 to take up any additional slack in the hose 92 when the mast 56 is partially or completely retracted. This allows for easier storage and management of the hose 92. In some other embodiments, the hose reel 94 may be omitted. In such embodiments, the hose 92 may be stored on the platform 12.

[0078] Referring to Fig. 9, the mast 56 further comprises a crown 100 that is mounted proximate to the upper segment end 78 of the innermost one of the mast segments 64 (i.e. the mast segment 64 that will extend the highest above the surface 2). For example, in the embodiment of Fig. 9, the crown is mounted proximate to the upper segment 78d of the fourth mast segment 64d. The crown 100 comprises one or more nozzles 102 that are attached, directly or indirectly, to one end of the hose 92. The nozzles 102 are configured to deliver water from the apparatus 10 (e.g. such as on a fire, etc.).

[0079] The apparatus 10 may further comprise one or more cameras 104 for capturing photographs and / or videos and one or more environmental sensors 106 for monitoring environmental conditions (e.g. temperature, humidity, wind speed, precipitation, etc.). The cameras 104 and the environmental sensors 106 may be mounted on the crown 100, the nozzle 102, and / or the mast segments 64. Thecameras 104 and / or the environmental sensors 106 may communicate with the control panel 86. Such communications may be wireless (e.g. using Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, etc.) or through a wired connection. Through these communications, the control panel 86 may be able to control the operations of the cameras 104 and / or the environmental sensors 106. In addition, data from the cameras 104 and / or the environmental sensors 106 may be transmitted to the control panel 86.

[0080] Figs. 10 to 12 depict embodiments of the crown 100. Referring to Fig. 10, in one embodiment of the crown 100, the crown 100 may further comprise a crown base 108 mounted proximate to the upper segment end 78 of the innermost one of the mast segments 64. In some embodiments, the crown base 108 may be substantially planar. A plurality of crown actuators 110 is mounted on the crown base 108. In some embodiments, the plurality of crown actuators 110 comprises four crown actuators 110 arranged on the vertices of a rectangle. However, it is understood that a greater or a smaller number of the crown actuators 110 may be provided. In addition, it is understood that the crown actuators 110 may also be arranged in different patterns on the crown base 108.

[0081] Each of the crown actuators 110 comprises an actuator housing 112 that is attached to the crown base 108. The actuator housing 112 encloses, at least in part, an actuator member 114 that is able to slide within the actuator housing 112. For example, the actuator member 114 may be able to extend from the actuator housing 112. The crow actuator 110 further comprises an actuator connector 116 that connects one end of the actuator member 114 to a crown plate 118. The actuator connector 116 may be a ball-and-socket connector. When the actuator member 114 is extended from the actuator housing 112, a distance between the actuator connector 116 and the crown base 108 is increased. When the actuator member 114 is retracted back into the actuator housing 112, a distance between the actuator connector 116 and the crown base 108 is decreased. The amount of extension of the actuator member 114 with respect to the actuator housing 112 may be controlled.

[0082] By individually controlling the amount of extension of each of the actuator members 114 with respect to the actuator housings 112, an overall angular orientation of the crown plate 118 with respect to the crown base 108 may beadjusted. For example, if the crown actuators 110 are arranged on the vertices of a rectangle, then if the two actuator members 114 located on one side of rectangle are caused to extend from their respective actuator housings 112, the crown plate 118 will tend to angle up from that one side. By using ball-and-socket connectors for the actuator connectors 116, the crown plate 118 can be adjusted to various angles while still remaining connected to the actuator members 114. The extension of the actuator members 114 with respect to the actuator housings 112 may be controlled, such as through wired or wireless communications with the control panel 86.

[0083] In some embodiments, the crown 100 may further comprise a hose connector 120 attached to, and extending through, the crown plate 118. The hose connector 120 is adapted to connect to one end of the hose 92 and allows water from the hose 92 to pass through the crown plate 118. The crown base 108 may comprise a crown base opening 122 through which the hose 92 is able to extend.

[0084] In some embodiments, the innermost one of the mast segments 64 (e.g. the mast segment 64d in Fig. 9) may comprise a pipe 164 extending therewithin. In such embodiments, one end of the pipe 164 (e.g. a lower end of the pipe 164) may be attached to the hose 92, while the other end of the pipe 164 is attached to the hose connector 120.

[0085] Referring to Figs. 11 and 12, in another embodiment of the crown 100, the crown 100 may further comprise a truss 124 and a truss plate 126. One end of the truss 124 may extend from the crown plate 118, while the truss plate 126 is attached to the other end of the truss 124. The nozzle 102 may be attached to the trust plate 126. A truss hose portion 128 may extend within the truss 124 and through the truss plate 126 to connect the hose connector 120 to the nozzle 102 and to provide a path for water to travel between the hose connector 120 and the nozzle 102.

[0086] In some embodiments, at least some of the cameras 104 and / or the environmental sensors 106 may also be mounted on the truss plate 126 or the nozzle 102.

[0087] Referring to Figs. 13 and 14, in some embodiments, the vertical and / or the horizontal orientation of the nozzle 102 may be adjusted through a nozzle assembly132. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 14, the nozzle assembly 132 is attached to the truss plate 126. In other embodiments, the nozzle assembly 132 may instead be attached to the crown plate 118 or the crown base 108.

[0088] The nozzle assembly 132 comprises a first nozzle hose portion 134 and a second nozzle hose portion 135. The first nozzle hose portion 134 and the second nozzle hose portion 135 are able to rotate with respect to each other (e.g. in a substantially horizontal plane).

[0089] Where the nozzle assembly 132 is attached to the truss plate 126, the first nozzle hose portion 134 may be connected to the truss hose portion 128. Where the nozzle assembly 132 is attached to the crown plate 118, the first nozzle hose portion134 may be connected to the hose connector 120. Where the nozzle assembly 132 is attached to the crown base 108, the first nozzle hose portion 134 may be connected to the hose 92.

[0090] At least a portion of the second nozzle hose portion 135 may comprise flexible tubing to accommodate vertical adjustment of the nozzle 102. For example,

[0091] The nozzle assembly 132 further comprises a nozzle motor 136 for effecting horizontal rotation of the nozzle 102. The nozzle motor 136 may be mounted on a motor support 138 that is fixedly attached to the first nozzle hose portion 134. The nozzle assembly 132 may further comprise a nozzle plate 140 that is fixedly attached to the second nozzle hose portion 135. The nozzle plate 140 is adapted to engage with the nozzle motor 136 such that movement by the nozzle motor 136 will cause rotation of the nozzle plate 140 about a substantially vertical axis. The rotation of the nozzle plate 140 may be in direction E, as shown in Fig. 13. In some embodiments, the nozzle plate 140 may comprise a gearwheel with a plurality of teeth 142 that are adapted to engage with a corresponding rotating pinion 144 on the nozzle motor 136. When the pinion 144 on the nozzle motor 136 rotates, the engagement of the teeth 142 with the pinion 144 will effect rotation of the nozzle plate 140.

[0092] The rotation of the nozzle plate 140 will cause the second nozzle hose portion135 to rotate with respect to the first nozzle hose portion 134, which in turn will causethe nozzle 102 to rotate in a corresponding manner with respect to the first nozzle hose portion 134. The nozzle plate 140 may be able to rotate between 0° and 360°.

[0093] The nozzle assembly 132 may further comprise a linear actuator 146 and a lever 148. The lever 148 may be pivotally connected to the nozzle plate 140 at a first joint 156. The lever 148 may be pivotally connected to the second nozzle hose portion 135 at a second joint 158. The lever 148 may be pivotally connected to one end of the linear actuator 146 at a third joint 160. The other end of the linear actuator 146 may be pivotally connected to an actuator support 150 at a fourth joint 162. The actuator support 150 may be attached to the nozzle plate 140. In some embodiments, the actuator support 150 may be omitted, in which case the other end of the linear actuator 146 may be pivotally connected to the nozzle plate 140.

[0094] The linear actuator 146 is configured to extend and or retract in a linear direction (i.e. an overall length of the linear actuator 146 may be varied), as in direction F, as shown in Fig. 14. However, because of the pivotal connections of the linear actuator 146 with the lever 148, the nozzle plate 140, and / or the actuator support 150, any linear changes in the length of the linear actuator 146 may cause the vertical angle of the second nozzle portion 135 to change with respect to the nozzle plate 140, as in direction G, as shown in Fig. 14. This change in the vertical angle of the second nozzle portion 135 will cause the vertical angle of the nozzle 102 to change in a corresponding manner with respect to the nozzle plate 140.

[0095] The nozzle motor 136 and / or the linear actuator 146 may be controlled, such as through wired or wireless communications with the control panel 86.

[0096] Some of the components of the apparatus 10 may require electrical power to operate, such as, for example, the levelling unit actuators 38, the mast hydraulic cylinders 62, the winch 68, the locking actuators 82, the mast sensors 84, the cameras 104, the environmental sensors 106, the crown actuators 110, the nozzle motor 136, and / or the linear actuator 146. In some embodiments, electrical power to one or more of these components may be provided through electrical cables from one or more generators 152. The generators 152 may be located on the first platform surface 18. Fuel for the generators 152 may be supplied from one or fuel tanks 154located on the first platform surface 18. In other embodiments, electrical power to one or more of these components may be provided by batteries.

[0097] Operation of the apparatus 10 will now be described. In some embodiments, the apparatus 10 is initially placed in the transport configuration (as shown in Fig. 1 ). In the transport configuration, the outriggers 42 may be pivoted inwardly (i.e. such that the ends of the outriggers 42 are located close to the platform 12). The apparatus 10 may be transported to a desired location, such as by towing. Once the apparatus 10 has arrived at the desired location, the apparatus 10 may be transitioned into the deployed configuration (as shown in Fig. 2). In doing so, the levelling units 32 may be activated such that the levelling unit actuators 38 are extended such that the lift bases 40 are able to make contact with the surface 2. In addition, the outriggers 42 may be pivoted outwardly from the base 16, and the outrigger support members 52 may be extended from the outrigger support housings 50 until the outrigger bases 54 are able to make contact with the surface 2. Braces 28 may be placed in between adjacent ones of the outrigger arms 46.

[0098] The mast 56 may then be transitioned from a substantially horizontal orientation to a substantially vertical orientation, such as through operation of the mast hydraulic cylinders 62. Once the mast 56 is in the substantially vertical orientation, the mast sections 64 of the mast 56 may be extended (through telescoping action) until the desired height of the mast 56 is reached. The mast sections 64 may be extended by operation of the winch 68 in winding up the mast cables 66.

[0099] As the mast sections 64 are extended, the mast sensors 84 along the mast 56 may be triggered, causing one or more of the locking plates 76 on the mast segments 64 to move from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration. Once the mast sensors 84 detect that one of the mast sections 64 has moved beyond the locking plates 76, the winch 68 may wind out the mast cables 66, causing the mast sections 64 to retract until the lower segment end 80 of one of the mast sections 64 rests on the locking plates 76. The mast sensors 84 may also be configured to monitor when the desired height of the mast 56 has been reached. As the mast 56 is extending, the hose 92 may also unreel along the hose reel 94.

[0100] The guy-wires 88 are then attached to the outrigger arms 46. In some embodiments, the guy-wires 88 are attached to the outrigger reels 90, with the outrigger reels 90 being removably attachable to the outrigger arms 46. In such embodiments, the guy-wires 88 may be attached to the outrigger arms 46 by attaching the outrigger reels 90 to the outrigger arms 46. Any slack in the guy-wires 88 may be removed through reeling the guy-wires 88 around the outrigger reels 90.

[0101] The water pump 14 may then be activated to pump water through the hose 92, the hose connector 120, the truss hose portion 128, the nozzle hose portion 134, and the nozzle 102 for delivery onto a fire, for increasing relative humidity, for reducing air temperature, and / or for other watering applications. Angular adjustment of the nozzle 102 (both in the horizontal and vertical directions) may be made by using the crown actuators 110 (to adjust the orientation of the crown 100) and by using the nozzle motor 136 and the linear actuator 146 (to adjust the orientation of the nozzle 102).

[0102] In order to transition the apparatus 10 from the deployed configuration to the transport configuration, the guy-wires 88 may be detached from the outrigger arms 46. In some embodiments, this may be carried out by removing the outrigger reels 90 from the outrigger arms 46. The mast 56 may then be retracted by retracting the mast segments 64. Where one or more of the mast segments 64 is resting on one or more of the locking plates 76, the mast segments 64 may first be extended upwards slightly (e.g. by using the winch 68) so that the mast segments 64 are no longer resting on the locking plates 76. The locking plates 76 may then be moved from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration. Then, the mast segments 64 may be retracted downwards using the winch 68.

[0103] Once the mast 56 has been fully retracted, the mast 56 may be transitioned from the substantially vertical orientation to the substantially horizontal orientation using the mast hydraulic cylinders 62. The outrigger support members 52 may be retracted upwards, and the outrigger arms 46 may be pivoted inwardly (towards the platform 16). The outrigger bases 54 may also be removed. The lift bases 40 may be retracted. The guy-wires 50, which are now only attached to the mast 56, may bestowed and stored on the platform 12. The apparatus 10 can then be moved (such as, for example, by being towed).

[0104] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the preferred embodiments have been described in some detail but that certain modifications may be practiced without departing from the principles of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An apparatus for delivering water, the apparatus comprising: a platform comprising first and second platform surfaces; one or more axles mounted on the second platform surface; a plurality of wheels mounted on each of the one or more axles; a base mounted on the first platform surface; a water pump mounted on the first platform surface; a hose extending from the water pump; one or more outriggers pivotally connected to the base, wherein each of the one or more outriggers is configured to pivot in a first plane substantially parallel to the platform; and a mast pivotally connected to the base, wherein the mast is configured to pivot in a second plane substantially perpendicular to the platform, and wherein the mast comprises: a plurality of mast segments, wherein the hose is configured to extend through the plurality of mast segments, wherein the plurality of mast segments is configured to substantially nest within each other when the apparatus is in a transport configuration, and wherein at least one of the plurality of mast segments is configured to extend telescopically away from the base when the apparatus is in a deployed configuration; and a crown attached to an upper end of the mast, the crown comprising:a crown base attached to the upper end of the mast; a hose connector configured to connect to the hose; a crown plate, the crown plate comprising a crown plate opening through which the hose extends; a plurality of crown actuators, each of the crown actuators attached to the crown base and pivotally connected to the crown plate, wherein a length of each of the crown actuators may be individually controlled to adjust an angular orientation of the crown plate with respect to the crown base; and a nozzle extending from the crown plate and configured to receive water from the hose connectorfor delivery.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the crown further comprises: a truss extending from the crown plate, the truss comprising a truss hose portion connected to the hose connector; and a truss plate mounted to one end of the truss; wherein the nozzle is mounted to the truss plate and connected to the truss hose portion.

3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein each of the plurality of mast segments have a different width.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein each of the plurality of mast segments is configured to slidably engage with at least one other one of the plurality of mast segments.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein at least one of the plurality of mast segments comprises one or more locking units, each of the locking units comprising: a locking plate pivotally connected to the at least one of the plurality of mast segments; and a locking actuator attached to the locking plate and to at least one of the plurality of mast segments, wherein the locking actuator is configured to transition the locking plate between a first orientation wherein the locking plate is substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the at least one of the plurality of mast segments and a second orientation wherein the locking plate is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the at least one of the plurality of mast segments.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein in the second orientation, the locking plate extends into an interior of the at least one of the plurality of mast segments and engages with a lower end of at least other one of the plurality of mast segments.

7. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising one or more levelling units located proximate to a perimeter of the platform, each of the levelling units comprising: a levelling unit actuator; and a lift base attached to one end of the levelling unit actuator; wherein the levelling unit actuator is configured extend in a direction perpendicular to the platform.

8. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising one or more guy-wires, wherein when the apparatus is in the deployed configuration, the one or moreoutriggers pivot away from the platform and at least one of the one or more guy-wires extend from the mast to one of the outriggers.

9. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein each of the one or more outriggers comprises: an outrigger arm extending from the base; and an outrigger support attached proximate to one end of the outrigger arm, the outrigger support comprising: an outrigger support housing; an outrigger arm configured to extend from the outrigger support housing; and an outrigger base removably attached to one end of the outrigger arm; wherein the outrigger arm is configured to extend from the outrigger support housing until the outrigger base engages a surface on which the apparatus is located.

10. A nozzle assembly for attachment to a hose for delivering water, the nozzle assembly comprising: a first nozzle hose portion attached to the hose; a second nozzle hose portion connected to the first nozzle hose portion, wherein the first and second nozzle hose portions are adapted to rotate with respect to each other; a nozzle connected to the second nozzle hose portion;a nozzle motor connected to the first nozzle hose portion; a nozzle plate attached to the second nozzle hose portion, wherein the nozzle motor is configured to engage with the nozzle plate to effect rotation of the nozzle plate; a lever, wherein the lever is pivotally connected to the nozzle plate and to the second nozzle hose portion; and a linear actuator, wherein one end of the linear actuator is pivotally connected to the nozzle plate, wherein another end of the linear actuator is pivotally connected to the lever, and wherein the linear actuator is configured to change its length to vary a vertical angle of the nozzle.11 . The nozzle assembly of claim 10, wherein the nozzle motor comprises a pinion, wherein the nozzle plate comprises a gearwheel with a plurality of teeth for engagement with the pinion, and wherein rotation of the pinion effects rotation of the nozzle plate.

12. The nozzle assembly of claim 10 further comprising a motor support attached to the first nozzle hose portion, wherein the nozzle motor is mounted to the motor support.

13. The nozzle assembly of claim 10 further comprising an actuator support mounted to the nozzle plate, wherein the linear actuator is pivotally connected to the nozzle plate through the actuator support.

Images