Portable hot work monitoring and suppression unit

Abstract

A portable fire suppression unit (100) and system for monitoring a work area are disclosed. The fire suppression unit includes a base (1000), a dispenser mast, a sensor suite having a flame detector (160) and a thermographic camera (118), and an articulable monitor (112). A control system operates the unit in a hot works mode that is configured to reject false alarms from activities like welding, and a high-sensitivity fire watch mode for post-work monitoring. The unit communicates with a remote system control centre (12), allowing an operator (14) to verify a thermal event detected by the sensor suite before activating the monitor (112) to dispense a fire retardant (122). The fire suppression unit (100) may be mounted on a static stand (1000a) to be moved by a forklift or on a motorized cart (1000b) to form a dynamic fire suppression system.

Description

Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635PORTABLE HOT WORK MONITORING AND SUPPRESSION UNITCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This patent application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application 63 / 686,064, filed on August 22, 2024. The disclosure of this prior application is considered part of the disclosure of this application and is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.FIELD

[0002] This disclosure relates to a portable system and method for monitoring hot work areas and suppressing thermal events within hot work areas.BACKGROUND

[0003] Hot work includes any industrial or construction process that generates a potential source of ignition, such as flames, heat, or sparks. These activities, which include but are not limited to welding, cutting, and grinding, are essential in numerous sectors. Due to the nature of these tasks, they are often performed in environments where flammable materials may be present, creating a significant risk of fire. Annually, incidents resulting from hot work lead to substantial property damage, injuries, and even fatalities, underscoring the critical need for effective safety and monitoring protocols.

[0004] To mitigate the risks associated with hot work, established safety standards and best practices are widely implemented. A primary practice involves the use of a human spotter, often referred to as a "fire watch," who is tasked with monitoring the work area during and after hot work activities to identify any incipient fires. The fire watch period following the completion of the work is particularly crucial, as smoldering materials can ignite long after the initial work has ceased. This manual observation is a foundational component of conventional hot work safety procedures.

[0005] In addition to manual monitoring, various technological solutions are employed for fire detection and suppression in areas where hot work is performed. Conventional fire detection systems, such as smoke and heat detectors, are often present in these environments.161820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635Consequently, a common practice is to temporarily place these systems into a "test" mode to prevent inadvertent activation. Furthermore, maintenance and hot work are frequently scheduled during periods of reduced building occupancy, which can increase the time a fire might go undetected. For suppression, portable fire extinguishers are a common requirement at hot work sites, providing a first line of defense in the event of a fire. These existing methods, both manual and automated, represent the current standard of care for ensuring safety during and after hot work operations.SUMMARY

[0006] An aspect of the disclosure provides a portable fire suppression unit, including a base configured to be supported by a support system, a dispenser mast pivotally supported on the base and operable between a stowed configuration and a deployed confi uration, monitor supported by the dispenser mast, the monitor including an articulable nozzle and a sensor suite including at least one of a thermographic camera, a video camera, or a flame detector, and a control system configured to operate the fire suppression unit in a hot works mode that prioritizes data from the flame detector to reject false alarms from welding and a fire watch mode that utilizes data from the thermographic camera and the video camera for increased sensitivity detection of thermal events.

[0007] Aspects of the disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some aspects, the flame detector is a triple infrared flame detector configured to analyze multiple infrared wavelengths to discriminate between a fire and other infrared sources. In some examples, the unit further comprises a safety interlock system including at least one position switch configured to detect if the dispenser mast is in the deployed configuration. In some implementations, the unit further comprises a human-machine interface (HMI) in communication with the control system, the HMI configured to receive user input to arm or disarm the fire suppression unit and to aim the sensor suite. In some configurations, the unit further comprises an emergency stop button configured to, when activated, close a control valve to stop a flow of retardant to the mast. In some aspects, the base comprises a frame and an enclosure, the enclosure containing at least a portion of a fluid-supply system. In some examples, the unit further comprises an actuator system configured to provide a biasing force261820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635 to assist an operator in moving the dispenser mast between the stowed configuration and the deployed configuration.

[0008] Another aspect of the disclosure provides a fire suppression system, including a fire suppression unit including a base, a dispenser mast pivotally supported on the base, a sensor suite, a monitor, and a control system configured to operate in a hot works mode and a fire watch mode, and and a support system configured to support the base of the fire suppression unit.

[0009] Aspects of the disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some aspects, the support system is a portable stand including a frame with pockets configured to receive forks of a forklift. In some examples, the support system is a motorized cart. In some implementations, the motorized cart is an industrial vehicle. In some configurations, the control system is configured to communicate an interlock signal to a power interlock module to prevent operation of the motorized cart when the dispenser mast is in a deployed configuration. In some aspects, the system further comprises a retardant source in fluid communication with the fire suppression unit. In some examples, the fire suppression unit includes an inlet conduit for selective connection to a stationary retardant source.

[0010] An aspect of the disclosure provides a fire suppression environment, including a fire suppression system including a fire suppression unit and a support system, the fire suppression unit having a system controller, a sensor suite, and a monitor, a remote system control center including a user device associated with an operator, and a communication network providing communication between the fire suppression system and the remote system control center; wherein the fire suppression system is configured to transmit sensor data to the remote system control center, and the remote system control center is configured to transmit commands to the fire suppression system to control the monitor.

[0011] Aspects of the disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some aspects, the fire suppression system is configured to transmit a potential alarm event to the remote system control center for review and verification by the operator before an onsite alert is activated. In some examples, at least one of the system controller or the remote system control center executes a targeting manager configured to receive thermal imaging data, generate thermal event data including a location of a thermal event, and generate monitor361820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635 instructions for aiming the monitor at the thermal event. In some implementations, the remote system control center executes an alarm manager configured to generate an alarm score for a potential thermal event based on a plurality of sensor data inputs to filter false alarms. In some configurations, the fire suppression system includes a fault manager configured to execute a fire suppression protocol when communication with the remote system control center is inactive. In some aspects, the fire suppression system includes a plurality of radio transceivers to facilitate communication over cellular and WiFi protocols.

[0012] Another aspect of the disclosure provides a computer-implemented method of operating a fire suppression unit, the method comprising: receiving a selection to operate the fire suppression unit in one of a hot works mode or a fire watch mode, in response to selecting the hot works mode, prioritizing sensor data from a flame detector to distinguish between a thermal event and hot work activity, and upon detecting the thermal event, transmitting an alert to a remote control center for verification by an operator before activating a suppression action, and in response to selecting the fire watch mode, increasing detection sensitivity by analyzing sensor data from the flame detector, a thermographic camera, and a video camera to monitor for the thermal event.

[0013] Aspects of the disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some aspects, prioritizing sensor data from the flame detector in the hot works mode further comprises analyzing multiple infrared wavelengths to identify a spectral signature characteristic of a hydrocarbon fire while rejecting infrared signatures from other sources like arc welding. In some examples, increasing detection sensitivity in the fire watch mode further comprises activating thermal monitoring to identify residual heat signatures and analyzing video data from the video camera for smoke obfuscation. In some implementations, the method further comprises receiving a signal from a position switch indicating a dispenser mast of the fire suppression unit is in a deployed configuration and, in response, transmitting a command to a power interlock module to restrict movement of a motorized cart supporting the fire suppression unit. In some configurations, the method further comprises receiving, at the remote control center, verification of the thermal event from the operator; and only after receiving the verification, activating an on-site alarm and a monitor on the fire suppression unit to dispense a fire retardant. In some aspects, the method further comprises, upon receiving461820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635 the verification, generating monitor instructions to aim a nozzle of the monitor at a specific location of the thermal event based on an analysis of thermal imaging data.

[0014] The details of one or more implementations of the disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other aspects, features, and advantages will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] FIG. 1A is a schematic view of an example system for monitoring and suppressing thermal events according to the present disclosure;

[0016] FIG. IB is a plan view of an example of the system of FIG. 1 A;

[0017] FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a fire suppression system controller according to the present disclosure;

[0018] FIG. 3 is a schematic view of a system manager according to the present disclosure;

[0019] FIG. 4 is a schematic view of an example of a targeting manager according to the present disclosure;

[0020] FIG. 5 is a schematic view of an example of an alarm manager according to the present disclosure;

[0021] FIG. 6 is a schematic view of an example of a fault manager according to the present disclosure;

[0022] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of example operations executed by a fire suppression system controller of the present disclosure;

[0023] FIG. 8 is a schematic view of an example computing device that may be used to implement the systems and methods described herein;

[0024] FIG. 9 is a bottom perspective view of a fire suppression unit according to the principles of the present disclosure;

[0025] FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of the fire suppression unit of FIG. 9;

[0026] FIG. 11 is a top perspective view of the fire suppression unit of FIG. 9, wherein a mast of the fire suppression unit is moved to a stowed configuration;

[0027] FIG. 12 is a top perspective view of a fire management system including the fire suppression unit of FIG. 9 incorporated on a static base unit; and561820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635

[0028] FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of a fire management system including the fire suppression unit of FIG. 9 incorporated on a dynamic base unit.

[0029] Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Example configurations will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. Example configurations are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those of ordinary skill in the art. Specific details are set forth such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of configurations of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example configurations may be embodied in many different forms, and that the specific details and the example configurations should not be construed to limit the scope of the disclosure.

[0031] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example configurations only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular articles “a,” “an,” and “the” may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “including,” and “having,” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of features, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order of performance. Additional or alternative steps may be employed.

[0032] When an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “engaged to,” “connected to,” “attached to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected, attached, or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly engaged to,” “directly connected to,” “directly attached to,” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g.,661820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635“between” versus “directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0033] The terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections. These elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example configurations.

[0034] Referring to FIG. 1A, in some implementations, an example fire management environment 10 includes a system control center 12 in communication with a fire management system 18 including a fire suppression unit 100 and a base unit 1000, 1000a, 1000b. The system control center 12 includes a user device 20 associated with a respective operator 14. The system control center 12 is in communication with an external network 30 (e.g., the Internet, cellular networks). Optionally, the user device 20 may be connected to the external network 30 via an on-premises network 40 (i.e., the local network that the user device 20 uses to connect to the network 30). The on-premises network 40 includes a network gateway 42 (e g., a router) that serves as the forwarding host for the on-premises network 40. The user device 20 may correspond to any computing device, such as a desktop workstation, a laptop workstation, or a mobile device (e.g., a smart phone or tablet). The user device 20 includes computing resources 22 (e.g., data processing hardware) and / or storage resources 24 (e.g., memory hardware). The user device 20 may also include or be connected to a graphical user interface 26 allowing the operator 14 to view and control one or more fire suppression units 100.

[0035] Optionally, the system control center 12 may be in communication with a cloud network 50 including a single computer, multiple computers, or a distributed system (e.g., a cloud environment) having scalable / elastic resources 52 including computing resources 54 (e.g., data processing hardware) and / or storage resources 56 (e.g., memory hardware). A data761820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635 store (i.e., a remote storage device) may be overlain on the storage resources 56 to allow scalable use of the storage resources 56 by one or more of the client or computing resources 54. The cloud network 50 is configured to implement and execute one or more virtual machines (VMs). One or more of the VMs execute securely in a virtual private cloud (VPC) environment associated with or operated by the user 14.

[0036] The system control center 12 is depicted as being adjacent to the fire suppression unit 100 for illustrative purposes. However, the system control center 12 could be located at any suitable distance from the fire suppression unit 100 so long as commands and signals can be sent and received across the communication network 30, 40. Further, it is conceivable that fire suppression unit 100 of the present disclosure could also cooperate with other types of fire suppression systems. By way of example, the operator 14 at the system control center 12 could coordinate with a municipal fire department to dispatch one or more fire trucks site of the fire suppression unit 100 so as to provide additional fire extinguishing capability.

[0037] FIGS. 1A-6 provide schematic examples of fire suppression units 100, 100a, 100b used within the work environment 16 to detect and extinguish fires occurring within a predetermined, coverage zone 119, while FIGS. 9-13 provide physical examples of the fire suppression unit 100 and fire suppression systems 18. Specifically, the fire suppression unit 100 is adapted to detect the presence of fire in the predetermined coverage zone and is configured to subsequently facilitate fire extinguishing in response to commands received from the system control center 12 and / or a fire suppression system controller 200 executing on one or more of the user device 20, the cloud environment 50, or at the fire suppression unit 100. As detailed below with respect to FIGS. 9-11, each fire suppression unit 100 includes a retardant dispenser 108 connected to a retardant source 120, 120a, 120b by a control valve 124, and one or more dispenser control units 140 for communicating, storing, and executing data associated with each dispenser 108.

[0038] The fire suppression unit 100 may be remotely located from the system control center 12, such that the fire suppression unit 100 communicates with the system control center 12 via the external network 30. Additionally or alternatively, the fire management environment 10 may include a system control center 12 that communicates directly with the fire suppression unit 100 via the on-premises network 40. While FIG. 1A details the861820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635 system control center 12 in communication with several fire suppression units 100, 100a, 100b via the external network 30 (e.g., for remote fire suppression units 100) and / or the on-premises network 40 (e.g., for local fire suppression systems) for the sake of efficiently describing alternative configurations, the system control center 12 may be in communication with a single fire suppression unit 100 at a given work environment 16.

[0039] The one or more dispenser control units 140 are disposed in electrical communication with the various components of the fire suppression unit 100 for transmitting dispenser data 148d to the system control center 12 and executing dispenser commands received from the system control center 12 and / or the fire suppression system controller 200. The control unit 140 includes computing resources 142 (e.g., data processing hardware) and / or storage resources 144 (e.g., memory hardware). The control unit 140 may further include a network switch 146 providing communication with the network 30, 40. While FIG. 1A shows a single control unit 140 connected to a single dispenser 108 for the sake of clarity, the control unit 140 may be connected to a plurality of the dispensers 108 within the fire suppression unit 100. Alternatively, the control unit 140 may be embodied within the cloud environment 50 and in communication one or more dispensers 108 via a network switch 146. While the illustrated example shows the control unit 140 as a personal computing (PC) system, the control unit 140 may include a programmable logic controller (PLC) as a control device.

[0040] The network switch 146 of the fire suppression unit 100 is used to facilitate communication between the control unit 140 and the system control center 12 across the communication network 30. In the representative embodiment illustrated herein, the network switch 146 is realized as a "Power Over Ethernet" network switch that interacts with the system control center 12 across the communication network 30. However, those having ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the network switch 146 could be configured differently and could communicate with the system control center 12 in a number of different ways without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. By way of non-limiting example, the network switch 146 could incorporate or otherwise could communicate with the system control center 12 across the communication network 30 via a wireless connection point, such as a WiFi local area network connection, or a cellular data connection.961820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635

[0041] With continued reference to FIGS. 1 A and IB, the work environment 16 includes one or more of the fire suppression units 100, 100a, 100b each in fluid communication with a fire retardant source 120. Each fire suppression unit 100 is associated with a corresponding coverage zone 119, which may encompass one or more observation sites 60, 60a-60c. In some examples, multiple fire suppression units 100 may be associated with a common observation site 60b to provide at least partial overlap and redundancy between coverage zones 119 of the dispensers 108. For example, in FIG. IB, a first coverage zone 119a associated with a dispenser 108 encompasses first and second observation sites 60a, 60b while second and third coverage zones 119b, 119c associated with second and third dispensers 108 overlap a common observation site 60c.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 1 A, the fire management system 18 may be embodied as a static fire management system 18a including the fire suppression unit 100 supported on a portable stand or base unit 1000a. Additionally or alternatively, the fire management system 18 may include a dynamic fire management system 18b including the fire suppression unit 100 supported on a motorized cart or base unit 1000b. In each case, the fire suppression unit 100 is connected to a respective retardant source 120 via a control valve 124, which selectively permits the retardant 122 to flow to the dispenser 108 for application on an observation site 60.

[0043] The retardant source 120 contains a fire retardant 122 suitable for suppressing a thermal event (e.g., fire, hot spot). The retardant source 120 can include any type of fire retardant 122, such as water or a predetermined mixture of water and concentrated fire retardant foam. As provided above, the retardant source 120 may be a stationary retardant source 120a, such as a conventional well or an industrial water utility connection, either alone or in connection with stored concentrated fire retardant foam. Additionally or alternatively, the retardant source 120 may include a portable retardant source 120b that stores the retardant 122 in a selectively-pressurized vessel and can positioned in any suitable way with respect to the dispenser 108 and the coverage zone 119 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0044] With reference to FIGS. 1A-2, each retardant dispenser 108 includes a monitor 112 having an articulable nozzle 114 for selectively directing the retardant 122 to the1061820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635 coverage zone. The monitor 1 12 may further include a video camera 1 16 to provide optical data 148e of the coverage zone 119 to the system control center 12, as described in greater detail below. Each dispenser 108 may also include a forward-looking thermographic camera 118 that generates thermal imaging data 148a of a coverage zone 119 using observed infrared radiation.

[0045] While the illustrated example shows the static fire management system 18a in connection with the stationary retardant source 120a and the dynamic fire management system 18b in connection with a portable retardant source 120b, it should be appreciated that either of the fire management systems 18a, 18b may be connected to either or both types of retardant source 120a, 120b. For example, the static fire management system 18a may include a portable retardant source 120b incorporated on the stand 1000a or the dynamic fire management system 18a may include a coupling for connecting to a stationary retardant source 120a.

[0046] As noted above, the monitor 112 is used to selectively direct retardant 122 into the coverage zone 119 or otherwise towards one of the observation sites 60. The monitor 112 (sometimes referred to in the related art as a "deck gun," a "master stream," or a "water cannon") is typically adjustable in orientation and includes a nozzle 114 disposed in selective fluid communication with the retardant source 120 via the control valve 124. The nozzle 114 is employed to facilitate adjustment of the pressure and / or flowrate of the retardant 122 by "fogging" or "fanning" the stream of fire retardant liquid. By changing the flowrate via the nozzle 114, the monitor 112 can be used to direct liquid from the retardant source 120 at selectively adjustable distances, as discussed below. In one embodiment, the nozzle 114 is in electrical communication with a control unit 140 which, in turn, is used to selectively drive an actuator of the nozzle 114 to adjust the flow of retardant 122 through the nozzle 114.

[0047] In one example, the monitor 112 employs a multi-axis articulation system including a plurality of articulation actuators 113, which are configured to selectively articulate the monitor 112 so as to effect positional control of the nozzle 114 in order to aim retardant 122 flowing from the monitor 112 within the coverage zone 119. As discussed in greater detail below, the nozzle 114 and each of the actuators 113 may be independently monitored and1161820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635 controlled. The actuators 113 and the nozzle 114 generate operating data 148c, 148d that is used by the system controller 200 to monitor and control the actuators 113 and the nozzle. Examples of measured operating data 148c, 148d may include odometry data obtained from one or more position sensors, voltage or current data obtained from motors of the actuators 113 or nozzle 114, operational event data (e g., high component temperature events, impact events, joint over-limit events, etc.), and / or environmental conditions (e.g., temperature, humidity, etc.) that may impact life of a component 113, 114.

[0048] As noted above, the fire suppression unit 100 also includes a control valve 124 interposed in fluid communication between the source 120 and the monitor 112. The control valve 124 is selectively movable between a valve-closed position, wherein retardant 122 is prevented from flowing through the control valve 124, and a valve-open position wherein retardant 122 can flow through the control valve 124 to the monitor 112. The control unit 140 is adapted to move the control valve 124 between the valve-closed position and the valveopen position in response to commands received from the system control center 12 and / or fire suppression system controller 200. Thus, the control valve 124 could be of any suitable type sufficient to be electronically actuated by the system controller 200 and control the flow of retardant 122 to the monitor 112, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. By way of non-limiting example, the control valve 124 could be a conventional solenoid- actuated ball valve.

[0049] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the control valve 124 is disposed adjacent to the retardant source 120. However, those having ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the control valve 124 could be arranged in any suitable location sufficient to direct fluid towards the monitor 112 from the source 120, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. By way of non-limiting example, the control valve 124 could be implemented integrally with or otherwise as a part of the monitor 112, depending on application requirements.

[0050] The video camera 116, which may include a conventional color camera, is arranged to view to coverage zone 119. The camera 116 is disposed in electrical communication with the control unit 140, which cooperates with the camera 116 to transmit visual imaging data of the coverage zone 119 to the system control center 12, as described in greater detail below. In the representative embodiment illustrated herein, the1261820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635 camera 1 16 is operatively for concurrent movement with the nozzle 1 14. Additionally or alternatively, the camera 116 may be independently articulable relative to the monitor 112 and the nozzle 114. For example, the video camera 116 may be embodied as a multi-axis dome-style camera.

[0051] The camera 116 generates optical data 148e that is transmitted via the control unit 140 to the system control center 12. This optical data 148e can be analyzed by the system controller 200 or the cloud environment 50 to determine the presence of fire or smoke. The system controller 200 can execute several types of image analyses to make this determination. For instance, an optical smoke analyzer 510c evaluates the optical data 148e to detect the presence of smoke, while an optical light energy monitor 510d analyzes the data to determine if light energy levels exceed a predetermined threshold. Furthermore, an optical object identifier 510e may execute object identification software to ascertain whether the optical data 148e contains a fire or smoke object at the observation site 60. In the representative embodiment illustrated, the camera 116 is operatively configured for concurrent movement with the nozzle 114.

[0052] As noted above, the fire suppression unit 100 employs a thermographic camera 118 operatively attached adjacent to the monitor 112 which is configured to detect temperature changes occurring within the coverage zone 119, such as may occur when a fire has ignited in the coverage zone 119. In one embodiment, the thermographic camera 118 is also configured to transmit thermal imaging data to the system control center 12 via the network 30, 40, as described in greater detail below. In the representative embodiment illustrated herein, the thermographic camera 118 is operatively attached to the dispenser 108 adjacent to the monitor 112. Here, the position of the thermographic camera 118 is fixed for viewing of the coverage zone 119. However, thermographic camera 118 could be arranged or mounted in any suitable way sufficient to detect temperature changes within the coverage zone 119, and / or may employ an independent articulation system configured to facilitate movement of the thermographic camera 118. It is also conceivable that the thermographic camera 118 could be mounted for concurrent movement with the monitor 112, similar to the video camera 116.1361820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635

[0053] The thermographic camera 1 18 may be programmed or otherwise configured to generate an alarm signal 148b when the temperature of an object positioned within the coverage zone 119 reaches one or more predetermined operating limits, such as a specific temperature or temperature / time threshold. By way of non-limiting example, the thermographic camera 118 could generate the alarm signal 148b when an object within the coverage zone 119 exhibits a surface temperature in excess of 400-degrees Fahrenheit for more than 5 seconds.

[0054] The thermographic camera 118 is disposed in electrical communication with the control unit 140 which, in turn, is responsive to the alarm signal 148b and relays the alarm signal 148b to the system control center 12 and / or the system controller 200 across the network 30, 40. Advantageously, the alarm signal 148b generated by the thermographic camera 118 may be realized using conventional direct current voltage, triggered such as by a relay output, which may be implemented within the thermographic camera 118. However, those having ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the signal could be of any suitable type that is generated, communicated, or relayed in any suitable way by the thermographic camera 118 to the control unit 140, or by any other suitable component of the fire suppression unit 100, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0055] The fire suppression unit 100 further incorporates a flame detector 160, a type of optical sensor that provides high reliability and immunity to erroneous signals. In one example, the flame detector 160 is a triple infrared (IR) flame detector 160. Generically, a triple IR flame detector 160 operates by monitoring three specific wavelength bands within the infrared spectrum. A key principle behind this technology is that hydrocarbon fires emit a unique spectral signature, particularly a peak of infrared energy from the hot carbon dioxide (CO2) they produce. One flame sensor 162a in the flame detector 160 is tuned specifically to this CO2 peak (typically around the 4.4-micrometer range), while two other flame sensors 162b, 162c monitor different IR wavelengths just above and below this peak. An internal microprocessor and / or the system control 200 continuously analyzes and compares the signals or data 163a-163c from all three sensors 162. For a fire alarm to be triggered, the flame detector 160 must not only sense IR energy but also see the specific ratio and relationship between these three wavelengths that is characteristic of a real flame. This multi-spectrum1461820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635 analysis allows the flame detector 160 to effectively discriminate between an actual fire and other common infrared sources found in industrial settings, such as arc welding, hot machinery, and sunlight, which produce different IR signatures. By analyzing the flame's flickering frequency (typically 1-20 Hz), the flame detector further enhances its ability to reject false alarms from static hot surfaces.

[0056] The flame detector 160 may be programmed or otherwise configured to generate an alarm signal 148f when the temperature of an object positioned within the coverage zone 119 reaches one or more predetermined operating limits, such as a specific temperature or wavelength variation.

[0057] The flame detector 160 is disposed in electrical communication with the control unit 140 which, in turn, is responsive to the alarm signal 148f and relays the alarm signal 148f to the system control center 12 and / or the system controller 200 across the network 30, 40. Advantageously, the alarm signal 148f generated by the flame detector 160 may be realized using conventional direct current voltage, triggered such as by a relay output, which may be implemented within the flame detector 160. However, those having ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the signal could be of any suitable type that is generated, communicated, or relayed in any suitable way by the flame detector to the control unit 140, or by any other suitable component of the fire suppression unit 100, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0058] Those having ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the schematic representation of the system depicted in FIGS. 1 A-6 are not wiring diagrams and are intended to demonstrate generic electrical communication between the various components of the fire management environment 10. Thus, specific wiring and / or electrical connections between the various components of the fire suppression unit 100 may necessitate or otherwise benefit from the use of one or more power supplies, fuses, filters, relays, transistors, resistors, and the like (not shown, but generally known in the related art) employed to facilitate electrical communication between the various components of the fire suppression unit 100 and / or the system control center 12.

[0059] In operation, the fire suppression unit 100 monitors the coverage zone 119 for predetermined increases in temperature. When an observed temperature threshold is observed1561820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635 by the thermographic camera 118 and / or the flame detector 160, the thermographic camera 118 and / or the flame detector 160 generates the alarm signal 148b, 148f, which is forwarded to the system control center 12 and / or the system controller 200 via the control unit 140. The operator 14 can subsequently evaluate alarm signals 148b, 148f received from the control unit 140 and selectively control the monitor 112 to extinguish the fire within the coverage zone 119. To that end, the operator at the system control center 12 may view image data received from one or both of the cameras 116, 118, and could selectively actuate one or more input controls (for example a button, a touchscreen, or a joystick: not shown, but generally known in the art) to selectively control the control valve 124 and the monitor 112.

[0060] With continued reference to FIG. 1A, the fire management system 18 includes the fire suppression system controller 200 configured to manage operation of the fire management system 18 and to analyze the dispenser data 148 received from the one or more dispensers 108 of the fire suppression unit 100 and to generate responsive tasks, recommendations, or reports based on the dispenser data. The system controller 200 may be executed on the user device 20 and / or on the resources 52 of the cloud network 50. Additionally or alternatively, the system controller 200, or at least some modules 300, 400, 500, 600 of the system controller 200 may be executed locally by the one or more control units 140.

[0061] Referring to FIG. 3, the system manager module 300 is configured to control the overall operation of the fire management system 18. The system manager module 300 processes various system-level data to manage the operational state and ensure safe deployment of the fire suppression unit 100. The system manager module 300 includes a mode selection module 310 that determines the primary operational state of the fire management system 18. Based on user input received through the HMI or commands from a remote controller 20b, the mode selection module 310 places the fire suppression unit 100 into either hot works mode 312a or fire watch mode 312b.

[0062] In hot works mode 312a, the fire management system 18 operates in a state specifically configured for when hot work is actively being performed. Hot works mode 312a is initiated by n operator 14 at the system control center 12 or via an on-system user interface 166, typically for a pre-determined duration, and may include a countdown before full1661820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635 activation. During this time, the fire suppression unit 100 is configured to alert on active flames while rejecting the intense heat and light generated by processes such as arc- welding, thereby minimizing false positives. To achieve this, the fire suppression unit 100 relies principally on flame detector 160 configured to distinguish the light patterns of welding from those of a genuine fire (i.e., range of observed light frequency exceeds a threshold range). To further prevent unnecessary activation of on-site alarms or the suppression unit 100, any potential alarm event identified by the flame sensors 162 is first transmitted to an operator 14 at a remote system control center 12 for immediate review and verification. Only after a verified fire event will the operator 14 initiate fire suppression procedures, which may include activating the on-site indicator light and sounder, activating the suppression unit 100, engaging the targeting module 400 (discussed below), and / or notifying site personnel.

[0063] In fire watch mode 312b, the fire suppression unit 100 transitions to a state of full sensitivity for detecting fire threats, which is engaged following the termination or expiration of the hot works mode 312a. Thus, the system controller 200 may be manually switched to fire watch mode 312b or may be configured to automatically switch to fire watch mode 312b after a threshold period of time lapses following observation by the flame detector 160 of hot work. Fire watch mode 312b is specifically designed to address the critical period after hot work is complete, where smoldering materials can ignite. To achieve this, the fire suppression unit 100 utilizes a multi-faceted detection approach that combines thermal imaging data 148a, multi-spectral flame detection data 163, video or optical data 148e, and / or alarm signals 148b, 148f. During fire watch mode, the sensitivity for flame detection is increased, thermal monitoring is activated to identify developing or residual heat signatures, and for interior applications, the fire suppression unit 100 also monitors the coverage zone 119 for smoke obfuscation via the video camera 116. Any high-risk events identified by the system controller 200 via this comprehensive sensor suite are immediately presented to an operator 14 at the remote system control center 12 for evaluation and response.

[0064] The system manager module 300 also includes a cart power interlock module 320 that serves as a safety mechanism related to the mobile nature of the fire suppression unit 100. The module 320 receives dispenser configuration data 109 from the dispenser mast 106, which indicates the physical status of the dispenser mast 106, such as whether it is in a stowed or1761820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635 deployed position. When the cart power interlock module 320 determines that the dispenser mast 106 is in a deployed position, it sends a command to restrict the operation of the cart 1000b. This safety interlock prevents movement of the cart 1000b while the suppression equipment is deployed, ensuring stability during operation and preventing potential damage to the fire suppression unit 100 or the surrounding environment.

[0065] Referring now to FIG. 4, the targeting manager 400 includes a flame and thermography evaluator 410 configured to receive flame detector data 163, thermal imaging data 148a, and / or the alarm signals 148b, 148f from the thermography camera 118 and the flame detector 160. The targeting manager 400 also includes a monitor controller 420 that determines and controls an orientation and state (i.e., fan or stream) of the monitor 112 based on configuration data 324. Again, while FIG. 4 shows the targeting manager 400 associated with a single dispenser 108, the targeting manager 400 may be communicate with a plurality of dispensers, such as in FIG. 1A or 2.

[0066] Depending on the mode 312a, 312b, the thermography evaluator 410 receives the thermal imaging data 148a and / or flame sensor data 163 of the coverage zone 119 and continuously analyzes the thermal imaging data 148a and / or the flame sensor data 163 to determine whether a thermal event 62 (e.g., fire, hot spot) is occurring at one of the observation sites 60. Here, the thermography evaluator 410 may determine that a thermal event 62 is occurring within the coverage zone 119 where pixels within the thermal imaging data 148a indicate an observed or measured temperature TM that exceeds a thermal event threshold temperature TTE. Additionally or alternatively, the thermal event 62 may be indicated by the alarm signals 148b, 148f generated by the thermography camera 118 and the flame detector 160.

[0067] When the thermography camera 118 and / or the flame detector 160 sends an alarm signal 148b, 148f and / or the thermography evaluator 410 determines that a thermal event 62 is present within the coverage zone 119, the thermography evaluator 410 executes a mapping operation to generate thermal event data 412 including a location (i.e., coordinate position) and area (i.e., size) of the thermal event 62. In some examples, where the position of the thermography camera 118 is fixed, the location and area of the thermal event 62 may be determined by associating a pixel of the thermal imaging data 148a with a predetermined pixel1861820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635 map of the coverage zone 119. Thus, each pixel corresponds to a known location in the coverage zone 119. In other examples, the location of the thermal event 62 may be determined in real-time by the thermography evaluator 410 using known methods and systems for determining range (i.e., triangulation, radar, etc.).

[0068] Once the thermography evaluator 410 generates the thermal event data 412 for the thermal event 62, the monitor controller 420 generates or obtains monitor instructions 406 for automatically moving the monitor 112 to an optimized configuration for targeting the thermal event 62. In some examples, the monitor instructions 406 are generated based off of stored configuration data 430 for the dispenser 108. The configuration data 430 may include monitor configuration records 432a-432r associated with each location L and a range of areas A within the coverage zone 119. For example, referring to FIG. IB, the coverage zone 119 is shown with a first location Li having a first area Ai and a second location L2 having a second area A2. The configuration data 430 may include a first targeting record 432a including monitor configuration parameters for aiming the retardant stream 122 at location A and a second targeting record 432b including monitor configuration parameters for aiming the retardant stream 122 at location B.

[0069] Referring again to FIG. 4, in the illustrated example the monitor controller 420 determines the monitor configuration 432a-432r by executing a lookup operation based on the location L and area A identified in the thermal event data 412. By way of example, thermal event data 412 my identify a thermal event 62 at location A, where location A has an x-y coordinate position of (1,2) relative to a coordinate plane associated with the dispenser 108 and an area of 2 square meters. Here, the monitor controller 420 executes a look-up operation to find the record associated with the location at (1,2) and an area 2 square meters and selects the configuration record 432k.

[0070] The monitor controller 420 then transmits the selected record 432, 432k to the dispenser control unit 140, which configures the monitor 112 according to the configuration parameters in the targeting record 432k. The configuration parameters include actuator and nozzle position parameters for aiming the nozzle 114, a nozzle state parameter for controlling retardant application area (i.e., fanning or stream), and one or more control valve parameters for controlling a volume or pressure of the retardant 122 provided to the nozzle 114 by the1961820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635 control valve 124. In other examples, other configuration parameters may control operation of the retardant source 120. For example, certain observation sites 60 may be associated with different types of fires (e.g., chemical vs. paper) in the thermal event data 430. Accordingly, the configuration data 432 may include parameters for selecting or adjusting the type of retardant 122 based on the type of fire associated with the thermal event data 412.

[0071] Referring now to FIG. 5, the optional alarm score manager 500 of the fire suppression system controller 200 scores and filters alarm signals 148b or thermal event data 412 based on sensor data 148, 152, 163 received from a plurality of sensors 116, 118, 150, 160 associated with the dispenser 108 and fire suppression unit 100. Here, the alarm manager 500 includes an alarm scorer 510 that evaluates the sensor data 148 to generate an alarm score 514, and an alarm filter 520 that determines whether or not to forward an alarm signal 148b or thermal event data 412 based on the alarm score 514.

[0072] In addition to the thermal imaging data 148a obtained from the thermography camera 118 and the optical data 148e received from the video camera 116, the alarm manager 500 may also receive data 152, 163 from other sensors 150, 160 associated with the fire suppression unit 100. For example, the fire suppression unit 100 may include one or more infrared flame detectors 160 or thermography cameras 118 located remotely from the dispenser 108 to measure infrared activity at an observation site 60c. Additionally or alternatively, the fire suppression unit 100 includes occupancy sensors 150, such as motion sensors or door sensors that provide occupancy data 152 around the coverage zone 119 and observation sites 60.

[0073] The alarm scorer 510 is optional and includes a plurality of sub-modules 510a- 510h configured to analyze the sensor data 148, 152, 163 and score an alarm signal 148b. Each sub-module 510a-510h generates a response 512a-512h (e g., yes / no) or score (e g. 1-10) identifying whether a thermal event 62 has been identified by the scoring submodule 510a-510h. The alarm manager 500 then calculates the alarms score 514 based on the responses 512a-512h or scores generated by each of the scoring sub-modules 510a- 510h. For the sake of illustration, the scoring sub-modules 510a-510h are shown as generating binary yes / no responses. However, in other examples, the scoring sub-modules 510a-510h may output scores representing a confidence level of the sub-module 510a-2061820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-57363551 Oh that a thermal event 62 is identified. These scores may be evaluated (e.g., summed, averaged) to generate the overall alarm score 514. The responses or scores generated by the sub-modules 510a-510h may be weighted by the alarm scorer 510 to provide greater deference to particular data 148, 152, 164 or sub-modules 510.

[0074] Referring still to FIG. 5, the sub-modules 510a-510h include a flame and thermography threshold evaluator 510a that analyzes the flame sensor data 163 and / or thermal imaging data 148a received from the flame detector 160 and / or thermography camera 118 to determine whether a magnitude of a measured wavelength or temperature TM within the coverage zone 119 exceeds a temperature limit TTE. Another sub-module includes the flame thermography delta evaluator 510b that evaluates a change in wavelength or temperature over time AT within the coverage zone 119. Thus, the flame and thermography threshold evaluator 510a compares the flame sensor data 163 and / or thermal imaging data 148a against a fixed value while the flame and thermography delta evaluator 510b compares the flame sensor data 163 and / or the thermal imaging data 148a against itself over time.

[0075] In addition to the thermography sub-modules 510a, 510b, the alarm scorer 510 includes a plurality of optical sub-modules 510c-510e that evaluate the optical data 148e generated by the video camera 116. A first one of the optical sub-modules includes an optical smoke analyzer 510c that evaluates the optical data 148e received from the video camera 116 and determines the presence of smoke. Similarly, an optical light energy monitor 510d analyzes the optical data 148e to determine whether light energy levels are greater than a fixed or historical threshold value for an observation site 60. Where light energy levels exceed the threshold light energy value, the optical light energy monitor 510d determines that a thermal event 62 is present at the observation site 60. Additionally or alternatively, an optical object identifier 510e may execute object identification software to determine whether the optical data 148e includes a fire or smoke object at the observation site 60.

[0076] The sub-modules 510a-510h further include environmental or system submodules 510g-510h that analyze data 152, 164 received from sensors 150, 160 in the fire suppression environment 10. The schedule evaluator 510g considers day and time, which2161820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635 may be used to estimate whether the fire suppression unit 100 is occupied (e g., working hours) or vacant (e.g., non-working hours). Additionally or alternatively, an occupancy evaluator 510h may analyze occupancy sensor data 152 to actively monitor whether the fire suppression unit 100 environment is occupied or vacant.

[0077] Based on the responses and / or scores generated by the sub-modules 510a-510h, the alarm scorer 510 generates an alarm score 510 associated with an alarm signal 148b and transmits the alarm score 514 to the alarm filter 520. The alarm filter 520 then determines an alarm response 522 based on the alarm score 514. The alarm response 522 may include logging the alarm signal 148b as a false alarm where the alarm score 514 does not satisfy a predetermined alarm score threshold. The alarm response 522 may also include instructing the alarm manager 500 to continue evaluating (i.e., scoring) the alarm signal 148b where the alarm score 514 ranges between the first threshold alarm score and a higher second threshold alarm score. In some examples, the alarm response 522 includes forwarding the alarm signal 148b to the user device 20 or automatically initiating the targeting manager 400 to activate one or more of the dispensers 108.

[0078] Referring to FIG. 6, the fault manager 600 is optional and is generally configured to initiate an on-site fire suppression protocol 622 when communication between the fire suppression unit 100 and the system control center 12 is inactive. As shown, the fault manager 600 includes a communication monitor 610 that receives a network communication signal 147 from a network switch 146 of the fire suppression unit 100 and / or each dispenser 108, and the determines whether the fire suppression unit 100 is actively communicating with the network 30, 40 and the system control center 12.

[0079] When the communication monitor 610 determines that the fire suppression unit 100 or one of the dispensers 108 is disconnected from the network 30, 40, the communication monitor 610 sends a fault signal 612 to the suppression planner 620, which generates instructions 622 for executing a fire suppression protocol. In addition to the fault signal 612, the suppression planner 610 may optionally receive or obtain monitor configurations 432 from the targeting module 400 and / or an alarm response 522 from the alarm manager 500.2261820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635

[0080] When the suppression planner 612 receives the fault signal 612 from the communication monitor 610, the suppression planner 620 determines whether there are any current alarm signals 148b associated with the fire suppression unit 100 or dispenser 108. The suppression planner 620 may receive unfiltered alarm signals 148b directly from the dispensers 108 and / or may receive the filtered alarm signals 148b with the alarm response instructions 522 from the alarm filter 520 of the alarm manager 500, as discussed previously. Additionally or alternatively, the suppression planner 620 may receive an alarm verification 624 from an on-site operator 14 via an on-site user device 20, which confirms that a thermal event 62 has occurred.

[0081] When the suppression planner 620 confirms a valid alarm signal 148b during a connectivity fault 612, the suppression planner 620 selects or generates a fire suppression protocol 622 with instructions for suppressing the thermal event 62. In some examples, the fire suppression protocol 622 may be a predetermined retardant dispensing pattern. Here, the fire suppression protocol 622 may be a passive protocol 622a that instructs the dispenser 108 to execute the dispensing pattern in a predetermined location of the coverage zone 119. For example, an operator 14 may pre-assign observation site 60 locations within the coverage zone 119. Thus, when an alarm signal 148b is received, the passive fire suppression protocol 622a instructs the dispenser 108 to provide retardant 122 to the pre-assigned location(s) of the observation sites 60. This passive protocol 622a allows the fire suppression unit 100 to function even in the event where the fault manager 600 is disconnected from the system control center 12 and the other modules 400, 500 of the system controller 200, thereby allowing the fire suppression unit 100 to function without external control instructions.

[0082] Alternatively, the fire suppression protocol 622 may be an active protocol 622b that instructs the dispenser 108 to execute the dispensing pattern in a location of a thermal event 62 identified by the targeting module 400. Thus, as discussed above, the targeting module 400 may select monitor configurations 432 by determining a location L and area A of a thermal event 62. The suppression planner 620 may obtain a monitor configuration 432 corresponding to the time period of the communication fault 612 and the alarm signal2361820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635148b and generate the active fire suppression protocol 622b instructing the dispenser to execute the predetermined retardant pattern at the location L.

[0083] The fire suppression unit 100 of the present disclosure can be used to facilitate expedited fire suppression in remote areas that would otherwise be unfit for certain types of actives or use because of their distance from the municipal fire department. In particular, it is conceivable that the predetermined coverage zone 119 could be located within a facility that is not accessible with conventional fire suppression equipment (e.g., fire trucks). Thus, the fire suppression unit 100 of the present disclosure affords significant advantages where immediate fire suppression is required to prevent significant property loss, danger the public at large, and / or potentially uncontrollable fire growth / spread. Further, the fire suppression unit 100 of the present disclosure affords significant advantages where the predetermined coverage zone 119 encompasses a "high risk," highly flammable, and / or dangerous coverage zone 119. By way of non-limiting example, the fire suppression unit 100 of the present disclosure is particularly advantageous when used in connection with the welding, fabrication, and scrap metal processing industry, wherein the coverage zone 119 encompasses one or more hot work areas within an industrial facility or in a remote area. Irrespective of the application, however, the fire suppression unit 100 of the present disclosure significantly improves the detection of fires and, at the same time, facilitates selectively controllable fire extinguishing in an efficient and safe manner.

[0084] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram illustrating an example method 700 for monitoring a work area. The method 700 may be performed by the fire suppression system controller 200. The method 700 begins with the fire management system 18 in an idle state (step 702). In this state, the detection capabilities of the fire suppression unit 100 are inactive. When a user decides to deploy the unit (step 704), the fire management system 18 initiates a self-test diagnostic at step 706. The self-test 706 confirms the operational status of all mechanical components and verifies adequate communication signal strength. If the self-test 706 detects a fault, it transmits fault data 707 to a service department (step 708), which then initiates a troubleshooting or service scheduling action (step 710).2461820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635

[0085] Once the fire management system 18 is successfully deployed, a user can activate hot works mode 312a (step 712). In hot works mode 312a, the sensors 116, 118, 150, 160 of the fire suppression unit 100 are configured primarily for flame detection. Specifically, the system control 200 prioritizes or isolates flame sensor data 163 from the flame detector 160. Upon detecting a potential thermal event 62 (step 714), the fire suppression unit 100 transmits the thermal event data 715 to the alarm manager 500 (step 716). The alarm manager 500 then evaluates the event data 715 and generates an alarm signal 148b, as previously described. In some examples, the alarm manager may simply receive the thermal event data 715 and generate a notification message with information regarding the thermal event 62 and any verified alarms to designated personnel (step 718).

[0086] Following the completion of hot work, an operator 14 places the fire suppression system controller 200 into fire watch mode 312b (step 720). In fire watch mode 312b, the fire suppression system controller 200 operates at a higher sensitivity state and utilizes the flame sensor data 163, thermal imaging data 148a, and, for interior applications, smoke data (e.g., optical sensor data 148e). Here, the fire suppression system controller 200 receives the flame sensor data 163 from the flame detector 160, the optical data 148e from the video camera 116, and the thermal imaging data 148a from the thermographic camera 118. When a potential thermal event 62 is detected (step 722), thermal event data 723 is transmitted to the system control center 12 for review (step 724). An operator 14 at the central control center 12 verifies the thermal event 62 (step 726). Upon verification, the operator 14 initiates a response protocol (step 726), which may include activating an on-site alarm (e.g., light, siren), engaging the suppression unit 100 to suppress the thermal event, dispatching the local fire department, and notifying site contacts. After the fire watch period is complete, the unit is stored (step 728), and the system returns to an idle state with detection capabilities turned off.

[0087] FIG. 8 is schematic view of an example computing device 800 that may be used to implement the systems and methods described in this document. The computing device 800 is intended to represent various forms of digital computers, such as laptops, desktops, workstations, personal digital assistants, servers, blade servers, mainframes, and other appropriate computers. The components shown here, their connections and relationships, and2561820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635 their functions, are meant to be exemplary only, and are not meant to limit implementations of the inventions described and / or claimed in this document.

[0088] The computing device 800 includes a processor 810, memory 820, a storage device 830, a high-speed interface / controller 840 connecting to the memory 820 and high-speed expansion ports 850, and a low speed interface / controller 860 connecting to a low speed bus 870 and a storage device 830. Each of the components 810, 820, 830, 840, 850, and 860, are interconnected using various busses, and may be mounted on a common motherboard or in other manners as appropriate. The processor 810 can process instructions for execution within the computing device 800, including instructions stored in the memory 820 or on the storage device 830 to display graphical information for a graphical user interface (GUI) on an external input / output device, such as display 880 coupled to high speed interface 840. In other implementations, multiple processors and / or multiple buses may be used, as appropriate, along with multiple memories and types of memory. Also, multiple computing devices 800 may be connected, with each device providing portions of the necessary operations (e.g., as a server bank, a group of blade servers, or a multi -processor system).

[0089] The memory 820 stores information non-transitorily within the computing device 800. The memory 820 may be a computer-readable medium, a volatile memory unit(s), or non-volatile memory unit(s). The non-transitory memory 820 may be physical devices used to store programs (e.g., sequences of instructions) or data (e g., program state information) on a temporary or permanent basis for use by the computing device 800. Examples of nonvolatile memory include, but are not limited to, flash memory and read-only memory (ROM) / programmable read-only memory (PROM) / erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM) / electronically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) (e.g., typically used for firmware, such as boot programs). Examples of volatile memory include, but are not limited to, random access memory (RAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), phase change memory (PCM) as well as disks or tapes.

[0090] The storage device 830 is capable of providing mass storage for the computing device 800. In some implementations, the storage device 830 is a computer-readable medium. In various different implementations, the storage device 830 may be a floppy disk device, a2661820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635 hard disk device, an optical disk device, or a tape device, a flash memory or other similar solid state memory device, or an array of devices, including devices in a storage area network or other configurations. In additional implementations, a computer program product is tangibly embodied in an information carrier. The computer program product contains instructions that, when executed, perform one or more methods, such as those described above. The information carrier is a computer- or machine-readable medium, such as the memory 820, the storage device 830, or memory on processor 810.

[0091] The high-speed controller 840 manages bandwidth-intensive operations for the computing device 800, while the low speed controller 860 manages lower bandwidthintensive operations. Such allocation of duties is exemplary only. In some implementations, the high-speed controller 840 is coupled to the memory 820, the display 880 (e.g., through a graphics processor or accelerator), and to the high-speed expansion ports 850, which may accept various expansion cards (not shown). In some implementations, the low-speed controller 860 is coupled to the storage device 830 and a low-speed expansion port 890. The low-speed expansion port 890, which may include various communication ports (e.g., USB, Bluetooth, Ethernet, wireless Ethernet), may be coupled to one or more input / output devices, such as a keyboard, a pointing device, a scanner, or a networking device such as a switch or router, e.g., through a network adapter.

[0092] The computing device 800 may be implemented in a number of different forms, as shown in the figure. For example, it may be implemented as a standard server 800a or multiple times in a group of such servers 800a, as a laptop computer 800b, or as part of a rack server system 800c.

[0093] Various implementations of the systems and techniques described herein can be realized in digital electronic and / or optical circuitry, integrated circuitry, specially designed ASICs (application specific integrated circuits), computer hardware, firmware, software, and / or combinations thereof. These various implementations can include implementation in one or more computer programs that are executable and / or interpretable on a programmable system including at least one programmable processor, which may be special or general purpose, coupled to receive data and instructions from, and to transmit data and instructions to, a storage system, at least one input device, and at least one output device.2761820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635

[0094] These computer programs (also known as programs, software, software applications or code) include machine instructions for a programmable processor, and can be implemented in a high-level procedural and / or object-oriented programming language, and / or in assembly / machine language. As used herein, the terms “machine-readable medium” and “computer-readable medium” refer to any computer program product, non-transitory computer readable medium, apparatus and / or device (e.g., magnetic discs, optical disks, memory, Programmable Logic Devices (PLDs)) used to provide machine instructions and / or data to a programmable processor, including a machine-readable medium that receives machine instructions as a machine-readable signal. The term “machine-readable signal” refers to any signal used to provide machine instructions and / or data to a programmable processor.

[0095] The processes and logic flows described in this specification can be performed by one or more programmable processors, also referred to as data processing hardware, executing one or more computer programs to perform functions by operating on input data and generating output. The processes and logic flows can also be performed by special purpose logic circuitry, e.g., an FPGA (field programmable gate array) or an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit). Processors suitable for the execution of a computer program include, by way of example, both general and special purpose microprocessors, and any one or more processors of any kind of digital computer. Generally, a processor will receive instructions and data from a read only memory or a random access memory or both. The essential elements of a computer are a processor for performing instructions and one or more memory devices for storing instructions and data. Generally, a computer will also include, or be operatively coupled to receive data from or transfer data to, or both, one or more mass storage devices for storing data, e.g., magnetic, magneto optical disks, or optical disks. However, a computer need not have such devices. Computer readable media suitable for storing computer program instructions and data include all forms of non-volatile memory, media and memory devices, including by way of example semiconductor memory devices, e.g., EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memory devices; magnetic disks, e.g., internal hard disks or removable disks; magneto optical disks; and CD ROM and DVD-ROM disks. The processor and the memory can be supplemented by, or incorporated in, special purpose logic circuitry.2861820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635

[0096] To provide for interaction with a user, one or more aspects of the disclosure can be implemented on a computer having a display device, e.g., a CRT (cathode ray tube), LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor, or touch screen for displaying information to the user and optionally a keyboard and a pointing device, e.g., a mouse or a trackball, by which the user can provide input to the computer. Other kinds of devices can be used to provide interaction with a user as well; for example, feedback provided to the user can be any form of sensory feedback, e.g., visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback; and input from the user can be received in any form, including acoustic, speech, or tactile input. In addition, a computer can interact with a user by sending documents to and receiving documents from a device that is used by the user; for example, by sending web pages to a web browser on a user's client device in response to requests received from the web browser.

[0097] Referring now to FIGS. 9-12, an implementation of a fire suppression unit 100 according to the present disclosure is provided. The fire suppression unit 100 is configured to be adapted for use as either a static fire management system 18a (FIG. 12) implemented on a portable stand 1000a or as a dynamic fire management system 18b (FIG. 13) implemented in connection with a motorized cart 1000b (generically, the stand 1000a and the cart 1000b will be referred to as a support system 1000), as discussed previously. The fire suppression unit 100 includes a base 102 configured to support the fire suppression unit 100 on the support system 1000. As shown, the base 102 may include a frame 102a and an enclosure 102b attached to the frame. The frame 102a defines a bulkhead of the fire suppression unit 100 for supporting various peripheral components of the fire suppression unit 100. In the illustrated example, the frame 102a and the enclosure 102b support and contain at least a portion of a fluid supply system 104 including the control valve 124 (within enclosure 102b) of the fire suppression unit 100. The fire suppression unit 100 further includes a dispenser mast 106 supporting various elements of the fire suppression unit 100 and operable between a deployed configuration (FIG. 10) and a stowed configuration (FIG. 11). As discussed in greater detail below, the dispenser mast 106 supports the dispenser 108, monitor 112, nozzle 114, video camera 116, thermography camera 118, and flame detector 160. The fire suppression unit 100 may further include a control system 110 operable to execute at least a portion of the fire suppression system controller 200.2961820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635

[0098] Referring still to FIG. 11 , the base 102 of the fire suppression unit 100 is provided as an enclosure 102 having a bottom side that interfaces with the support system 1000 when the fire suppression unit 100 is implemented in a fire management system 18. The fluid supply system 104 is supported by the base 102 of the fire suppression unit 100 and provides a fluid interface between a retardant source 120 and the dispenser 108 of the fire suppression unit 100. Particularly, the fluid supply system 104 includes an inlet conduit 126 having a suppressant inlet port 128 configured for selective connection to a stationary retardant source 120a and a bypass conduit 130 configured to supplying a supplemental retardant to the inlet conduit 126.

[0099] The fluid supply system 104 further includes the mast 106 pivotally supported on the base 102 and operable to move between the deployed position (FIG. 10) and the stowed position (FIG. 11). The mast 106 includes an upper mast pipe 132 fluidly coupled to an outlet of the inlet conduit 126 via an articulable elbow, which provides a swivel joint 134 about which the mast 106 can rotate between the stowed configuration and the deployed configuration. Optionally, the mast 106 may include an actuator system 136 to drive or assist the mast 106 in moving between the deployed configuration and the stowed configuration. In the illustrated example, the actuator system 136 includes a pair of pressurized pneumatic cylinders 138 (i.e., gas shocks) each having a first end attached to the mast and a second end attached to the frame 102a. Thus, the actuator system 136 may be referred to a passive actuator system 136 that imparts a positive biasing force to the mast 106 to assist an operator 14 in raising the mast 106 to the deployed configuration and in lowering the mast 106 to the stowed configuration. In other configurations, the actuator system 136 may be powered (e.g., hydraulic, pneumatic, or electrical motors or solenoids) to actively drive the mast 106 between the stowed configuration and the deployed configuration via the system controller 200.

[0100] Referring still to FIGS. 9-11, a distal end of the upper mast pipe 132 supports the monitor 112 along with each of the nozzle 114, video camera 116, thermographic camera 118, and flame detector 160. In the illustrated example, each of the nozzle 114, video camera 116, thermographic camera 118, and flame detector 160 are connected to the monitor 112 for articulation atop the distal end of the upper mast pipe 132. The monitor 112, sometimes referred to in the art as a "water cannon" or "master stream," is a high-volume water-jet nozzle3061820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635 assembly designed for industrial and firefighting applications. It employs a multi-axis articulation system, driven by a plurality of articulation actuators 113, which are configured to selectively articulate the monitor 112 in both horizontal (pan) and vertical (tilt) planes. This articulation affects positional control of the nozzle 114, allowing the retardant stream to be precisely aimed at a thermal event 62 within the coverage zone 119. The actuators 113 are in electrical communication with the system controller 200, enabling remote control of the monitor's orientation in response to automated commands from the targeting manager 400 or manual commands from an operator 14. In some implementations, a suitable monitor 112 may be an Elkhart Brass Sidewinder EXM2, model 7100HDX2. This type of monitor is an electronically controlled master stream device capable of dispensing up to 700 gallons per minute. It is designed for heavy-duty use and provides precise, remote control over its pan and tilt adjustments, making it well-suited for integration into an automated fire suppression system 10.

[0101] Referring still to FIGS. 9-11, the control system 110 includes a user interface 166, which may be embodied as a touch screen and / or physical buttons, allowing an operator 14 to directly interface with the fire suppression system controller 200 at the fire suppression unit 100 itself. For communication with the remote system control center 12, the control system 110 is equipped with one or more antennas 145 supporting various wireless protocols such as cellular, WiFi, GPS or Bluetooth. A signal indicator light 168, provides a visual confirmation of when the fire suppression system controller 200 is actively communicating with the system control center 12.

[0102] The fire suppression unit 100 further incorporates a safety interlock system 158 associated with the physical configuration of its mast 106. In the illustrated example, the safety interlock system 158 includes one or more position switches 158 associated with the mast 106 to detect whether the mast 106 is in a deployed (raised) configuration or a stowed (lowered) configuration. For example, the position switches 158 may include a limit switch 158 that is engaged when the mast 106 is in the deployed configuration. When the position switches 158 indicate that the mast 106 is in the deployed configuration, the fire suppression system controller 200 communicates an interlock signal to the power interlock module 320, which communicates with an ignition or power system of the cart 1000b to prevents the3161820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635 operation of the motorized cart 1000b or other support system. Thus, the interlock system 158 cooperates with the power interlock module 320 to ensuring the fire suppression unit 100 remains stationary and stable during deployment and operation.

[0103] The fire suppression unit 100 is equipped with the indicator light 168 and a sounder or siren 170. The indicator light 168 and the sounder 170 provides on-site personnel with alerts regarding the status of the fire management system 18. The indicator light 168 includes a high-intensity indicator light to provide a visual alert and a siren or speaker to provide an aural alert in the event of a verified fire threat. The indicator light 168 and the sounder 170 are activated by the fire suppression system controller 200 after an operator 14 at the system control center 12 or the alarm module 500 confirms a thermal event 62.

[0104] The fire suppression unit 100 further includes an E-Button 172, or emergency alert. The E-Button 172 is a manual control that allows on-site personnel to alert operators 14 at the system control center 12 to immediately review the sensor data from the fire suppression unit 100. Activating the E-Button 172 sends a signal to the system control center 12, prompting an operator 14 to prioritize the evaluation of the corresponding coverage zone 119. An E-Stop 174, or emergency stop button, is also included on the fire suppression unit 100. The E-Stop 174 serves as a manual override to immediately cease suppression activity. When the E-Stop 174 is activated, it sends a command that immediately closes the control valve 124 to stop the flow of retardant 122 and silences any active alerts from the indicator light and sounder 170. One or both of the E-Stop 174 and the E-Button 172 may be concealed within a cover to minimize inadvertent activation.

[0105] On-site personnel can interact with the fire suppression system controller 200 via an HMI Interface 176 (Human-Machine Interface). The HMI Interface 176, which may be embodied as the user interface 166, is a simple touch screen that allows personnel to arm, disarm, and review the status of the fire suppression unit 100. The HMI Interface 176 also provides controls for aiming the sensors, such as the video camera 116 and the thermographic camera 118, to ensure optimal positioning over the coverage zone 119. The HMI Interface 176 also allows a user to input specific information related to the deployment of the fire suppression unit 100. This includes data such as the current location of the fire suppression unit 100, the identity of the user, and contact information for designated personnel. This3261820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635 information is then used by the fire suppression system controller 200 when generating system status updates and fire event alerts.[01061 In some implementations, the fire suppression unit 100 may incorporate one or more modules or sensors to determine when the fire suppression unit 100 has been jarred or when the designated observation site 60 is no longer within the coverage zone 119. This may include physical sensors, such as gyroscopes or accelerometers, integrated with the fire suppression unit 100. These sensors are configured to detect changes in the physical orientation of the fire suppression unit 100, generating a fault signal if the fire suppression unit 100 is tipped, tilted, or otherwise misaligned beyond a predetermined threshold. Additionally or alternatively, the fire suppression system controller 200 may include software-based modules that evaluate imaging data from the video camera 116. These modules can analyze the video feed to determine if the target work area 60 has moved out of the established coverage zone 119, indicating that the fire suppression unit 100 is no longer correctly aimed.

[0107] The fire suppression unit 100 can be powered in several ways to ensure operational readiness. It may feature an independent, on-board power supply 178 (within the enclosure 102b) integrated directly into its base 102. Alternatively, when mounted on a motorized cart 1000b, the unit can draw power from the cart's own power system. For stationary or longterm deployments, the fire suppression unit 100 may also include a power hook-up, allowing it to connect to an external power source for continuous operation or to recharge its internal batteries.

[0108] The fire suppression unit 100 may be supported on a stand 1000a to form a static fire management system 18a. The stand 1000a includes a frame 1002 that is configured with pockets for receiving the forks of a forklift or similar moving vehicle. This configuration allows the static fire management system 18a to be easily transported and positioned throughout a facility using a separate vehicle. By decoupling the fire suppression unit 100 from a dedicated motorized cart 1000b, this arrangement minimizes the overall cost of the fire management system 18 and allows for the deployment of a greater number of fire suppression units 100 using common industrial equipment for relocation.

[0109] In another implementation, the fire suppression unit 100 can be incorporated into a dynamic fire management system 18b. In this configuration, the fire suppression unit 100 is3361820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635 mounted onto a motorized cart 1000b to create a fully mobile and self-propelled system. Suitable examples of a motorized cart 1000b include industrial vehicles such as a Cushman Stock Chaser 3 or a Cushman Titan HD. The design of the fire suppression unit 100 can also be scaled for different types of vehicles, allowing the dynamic fire management system 18b to be adapted for other platforms such as side-by-side ATV vehicles or golf carts, depending on the specific environmental and deployment needs.

[0110] A number of implementations have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, other implementations are within the scope of the following claims.3461820825 1

Claims

Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635What is claimed is:

1. A portable fire suppression unit, comprising: a base configured to be supported by a support system; a dispenser mast pivotally supported on the base and operable between a stowed configuration and a deployed configuration; a monitor supported by the dispenser mast, the monitor including an articulable nozzle and a sensor suite including at least one of a thermographic camera, a video camera, or a flame detector; and a control system configured to operate the fire suppression unit in: a hot works mode that prioritizes data from the flame detector to reject false alarms from welding; and a fire watch mode that utilizes data from one or more of the flame detector, the thermographic camera, or the video camera for increased sensitivity detection of thermal events.

2. The portable fire suppression unit of Claim 1, wherein the flame detector is a triple infrared flame detector configured to analyze multiple infrared wavelengths to discriminate between a fire and other infrared sources.

3. The portable fire suppression unit of Claim 1 or 2, further comprising a safety interlock system including at least one position switch configured to detect if the dispenser mast is in the deployed configuration.

4. The portable fire suppression unit of any of Claims 1-3, further comprising a humanmachine interface (HMI) in communication with the control system, the HMI configured to receive user input to arm or disarm the fire suppression unit and to aim the sensor suite.3561820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-5736355. The portable fire suppression unit of any of Claims 1-4, further comprising an emergency stop button configured to, when activated, close a control valve to stop a flow of retardant to the mast.

6. The portable fire suppression unit of Claim 1, wherein the base comprises a frame and an enclosure, the enclosure containing at least a portion of a fluid-supply system.

7. The portable fire suppression unit of Claim 1, further comprising an actuator system configured to provide a biasing force to assist an operator in moving the dispenser mast between the stowed configuration and the deployed configuration.

8. A fire suppression system, comprising: a fire suppression unit including a base, a dispenser mast pivotally supported on the base, a sensor suite, a monitor, and a control system configured to operate in a hot works mode and a fire watch mode; and a support system configured to support the base of the fire suppression unit.

9. The fire suppression system of Claim 8, wherein the support system is a portable stand including a frame with pockets configured to receive forks of a forklift.

10. The fire suppression system of Claim 8, wherein the support system is a motorized cart.

11. The fire suppression system of Claim 10, wherein the motorized cart is an industrial vehicle.

12. The fire suppression system of Claim 10, wherein the control system is configured to communicate an interlock signal to a power interlock module to prevent operation of the motorized cart when the dispenser mast is in a deployed configuration.3661820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-57363513. The fire suppression system of any of Claims 8-12, further comprising a retardant source in fluid communication with the fire suppression unit.

14. The fire suppression system of Claim 13, wherein the fire suppression unit includes an inlet conduit for selective connection to a stationary retardant source.

15. A fire suppression environment, comprising: a fire suppression system including a fire suppression unit and a support system, the fire suppression unit having a system controller, a sensor suite, and a monitor; a remote system control center including a user device associated with an operator; and a communication network providing communication between the fire suppression system and the remote system control center; wherein the fire suppression system is configured to transmit sensor data to the remote system control center, and the remote system control center is configured to transmit commands to the fire suppression system to control the monitor.

16. The fire suppression environment of Claim 15, wherein the fire suppression system is configured to transmit a potential alarm event to the remote system control center for review and verification by the operator before an on-site alert is activated.

17. The fire suppression environment of Claim 15 or 16, wherein at least one of the system controller or the remote system control center executes a targeting manager configured to receive thermal imaging data, generate thermal event data including a location of a thermal event, and generate monitor instructions for aiming the monitor at the thermal event.

18. The fire suppression environment of any of Claims 15-17, wherein the remote system control center executes an alarm manager configured to generate an alarm score for a potential thermal event based on a plurality of sensor data inputs to filter false alarms.3761820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-57363519. The fire suppression environment of any of Claims 15-18, wherein the fire suppression system includes a fault manager configured to execute a fire suppression protocol when communication with the remote system control center is inactive.

20. The fire suppression environment of any of Claim 15-19, wherein the fire suppression system includes a plurality of radio transceivers to facilitate communication over cellular and WiFi protocols.

21. A computer-implemented method of operating a fire suppression unit, the method comprising: receiving a selection to operate the fire suppression unit in one of a hot works mode or a fire watch mode; in response to selecting the hot works mode, prioritizing sensor data from a flame detector to distinguish between a thermal event and hot work activity, and upon detecting the thermal event, transmitting an alert to a remote control center for verification by an operator before activating a suppression action; and in response to selecting the fire watch mode, increasing detection sensitivity by analyzing sensor data from one or more of the flame detector, a thermographic camera, or a video camera to monitor for the thermal event.

22. The computer-implemented method of Claim 21, wherein prioritizing sensor data from the flame detector in the hot works mode further comprises analyzing multiple infrared wavelengths to identify a spectral signature characteristic of a hydrocarbon fire while rejecting infrared signatures from other sources like arc welding.

23. The computer-implemented method of Claim 21 or 22, wherein increasing detection sensitivity in the fire watch mode further comprises activating thermal monitoring to identify residual heat signatures and analyzing video data from the video camera for smoke obfuscation.

24. The computer-implemented method of any of Claims 21-23, further comprising:3861820825 1Attorney Docket No. : 266544-573635 receiving a signal from a position switch indicating a dispenser mast of the fire suppression unit is in a deployed configuration; and in response, transmitting a command to a power interlock module to restrict movement of a motorized cart supporting the fire suppression unit.

25. The computer-implemented method of any of Claims 21-24, further comprising: receiving, at the remote control center, verification of the thermal event from the operator; and only after receiving the verification, activating an on-site alarm and a monitor on the fire suppression unit to dispense a fire retardant.

26. The computer-implemented method of Claim 25, further comprising, upon receiving the verification, generating monitor instructions to aim a nozzle of the monitor at a specific location of the thermal event based on an analysis of thermal imaging data.3961820825 1

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