A fire safety device

Abstract

A fire safety device comprising: an interaction unit for mounting on a first side of a wall; and a transmission tunnel passing through the wall from the first side to a second side of the wall; the transmission tunnel providing a sensor end in relation to the second side of the wall for sensing presence of a fire on the second side of the wall, and the interaction unit arranged to provide an interaction in relation to the sensor sensing a fire on the second side of the wall.

Description

[0001] P13199PC01

[0002] A FIRE SAFETY DEVICE

[0003] Field of the Invention

[0004] The present invention relates to a fire safety device, in particular a device for providing a means of dealing with fires safely.

[0005] Background

[0006] Fire safety is an increasing concern in many societies across the world.

[0007] Fire can be dangerous for inhabitants of a premises on fire and firefighters who are on a scene to extinguish the fire. It would therefore be preferable for fires to be capable of being dealt with without entering the premises.

[0008] It is common, almost standard, for a fire engine to be crewed by just four firefighters.

[0009] Whilst a four-person crew can handle many types of incidents, there are clear limitations. Fire service policy typically prohibits internal firefighting operations with fewer than five personnel, except under exceptional circumstances, commonly referred to as rapid deployment. This limitation causes delays, especially in rural areas, as the initial crew must wait for a second appliance to arrive before committing to entry. These delays can be critical, often marking the difference between a minor bin fire and a fully developed blaze involving an entire room or even the whole building.

[0010] Prior Art

[0011] WO 2018 112 385 (MOFFA) discloses a fire suppression system comprising: a nozzle; a cartridge containing a pressurized gas; an agent tank coupled to the cartridge and having stored within a fire suppression agent; distribution piping providing a conduit that allows the fire suppression agent when expelled from the agent tank to flow from the agent tank to the nozzle; a release assembly coupled to the cartridge, wherein, upon activation of the release assembly, the cartridge releases the pressurized gas causing the fire suppression agent to expel from the agent tank through the distribution piping to the nozzle; one or more sensors to measure a current state at the nozzle, the cartridge, the agent tank, or the release assembly; and a communications module to receive measurements of the current state from the one or more sensors and transmit the current state to a remote monitoring platform.

[0012] EP 3 352 862 (GUARDIANO et al) discloses a nozzle access device configured to be installed in a structural element and to accept connection by a fire hose nozzle to introduce firefighting fluid into an enclosed space. The device has a housing configured to be inserted in a hole formed in the structural element. The housing has a cylindrical body and a first face with an opening surrounded by an inwardly P13199PC01 extending cylindrical socket. The housing has a second face, with an opening, which is attached to the cylindrical body. A movable nozzle connector in the housing has a connection portion configured to receive an inserted fire hose nozzle in a locking connection and a cylindrical nozzle stop portion extending from the connection portion. The nozzle stop portion is movably coupled within an interior of the socket of the first face.

[0013] KR 1 020 140 070 696 (HWANG) discloses a firefighting injection module, which includes a main rod having an internal flow path which water for firefighting flows through and used to suppress the fire on the scene of a fire; a nozzle bracket connected to one end of the main rod to be detachable; a nozzle mounted on the nozzle bracket and having multiple spray holes to be connected to the main rod; a wireless camera mounted on one end of the nozzle; and a transparent insulation cover mounted on one end of the nozzle and encompassing the wireless camera, in order to easily suppress a fire in a small space where firefighters cannot go in or the fire taking place in general buildings.

[0014] Summary of the Invention

[0015] According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a fire safety device comprising: an interaction unit mountable on a first side of a wall; and a transmission tunnel configured to pass through the wall from the first side to a second side of the wall in use; the transmission tunnel providing a sensor end in relation to the second side of the wall for sensing presence of a fire on the second side of the wall, and the interaction unit arranged to provide an interaction in relation to the sensor sensing a fire on the second side of the wall.

[0016] According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a fire safety device comprising: an interaction unit for mounting on a first side of a wall; and a transmission tunnel passing through the wall from the first side to a second side of the wall; the transmission tunnel providing a sensor end in relation to the second side of the wall for sensing presence of a fire on the second side of the wall, and the interaction unit arranged to provide an interaction in relation to the sensor sensing a fire on the second side of the wall.

[0017] The ability to attack a fire immediately from an external position, whether by arriving firefighters ortrained staff using adapted fire extinguishers offers significant advantages. It can limit fire development, reduce damage, and increase safety for occupants and crews.

[0018] One of the tools now commonly carried on fire appliances is the Fogspike misting system by Delta Fire. This nozzle allows firefighting media to be introduced into a compartment from the outside, improving conditions before crews enter. It’s a valuable and effective piece of kit, but it has a major drawback: it requires a hole to be made in the structure beforehand. This is typically done by hammering through boarding or using a drill to bore through brick or concrete. P13199PC01

[0019] This process not only takes time, but it also introduces risk. The operator can’t see what’s behind the wall, they might hit gas pipes, electrical cables, or even penetrate into the wrong room, a cupboard, or behind an obstruction, rendering the misting system ineffective.

[0020] In conclusion, while the current systems and equipment have their merits, it’s clear that improvements are needed to enhance the efficiency and safety of fire response by increasing crew sizes or implementing technology that allows external firefighting without compromising safety. Additionally, investing in tools that offer quicker, safer access to fire compartments without the risks associated with traditional entry methods would greatly improve outcomes. The Fogspike misting system, for example, offers great promise, but its full potential can only be realized if we address the time-consuming and hazardous entry process. It’s crucial that we continue to innovate and adapt, ensuring that firefighters have the right tools and procedures to respond swiftly and effectively, ultimately saving lives and protecting property.

[0021] Aimed at small and large commercial buildings, domestic dwellings and garages, high rise buildings and many more premises the Fire-in-the-Hole system avoids many of the challenges we’ve discussed. By pre-drilling the hole in advance and installing the Fire-in-the-Hole device after conducting a thorough risk assessment of the premises, the process becomes much more streamlined. The risk assessment identifies high-risk areas, potential fire origin points, and the number of devices needed to cover the property effectively. Based on this, the most suitable locations for the device are determined, and safety checks are carried out to ensure there are no hidden utilities or service hazards. This approach enables immediate access to the property with firefighting media, ensuring that the intervention occurs in the most effective and safest area.

[0022] In some embodiments of the device the interaction unit comprises an entrance to the transmission tunnel, which may be envisaged to comprise a closure means which may be lockable, such that a sensing means is permanently in operation but no airflow or access occurs through to the other side of the wall unless an authorised user requires access.

[0023] The sensing means may be envisaged to comprise a thermal sensor, a smoke sensor or other means of identifying fire hazards.

[0024] In some embodiments of the device the device comprises a displaceable sensor, so as to allow for removal of the sensing means to access firefighting means, wherein the interaction unit is arranged for receipt of a fire extinguishing wand in its place for example.

[0025] In other embodiments temperature sensor fixed onto a plate on the sensor side of the wall, which is located inside which measures and relays the internal temperature back to the interaction unit. P13199PC01

[0026] In some embodiments of the device the interaction unit comprises a sensor control means, such that a user is enabled to sense on demand.

[0027] In some embodiments of the device the interaction unit comprises a display means.

[0028] In some embodiments of the device the device comprises an alert means, which may comprise wireless network connectivity and / or a loudspeaker, so as to broadcast an alert when a predetermined set of values is sensed at the sensor.

[0029] In some embodiments of the device the interaction unit comprises a light source, which may illuminate the transmission tunnel, the second side of the wall, the environs of the interaction unit and / or provide a visual alert means.

[0030] In some embodiments of the device the device comprises a ventilation means to the transmission tunnel, for example feeding more air into the transmission tunnel.

[0031] In some embodiments of the device the device comprises an air movement means in the transmission tunnel, such as a fan.

[0032] According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a structure including a device substantially as described herein with reference to the claims.

[0033] According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided means of firefighting comprising a device substantially as described herein with reference to the claims.

[0034] In this way the device of the present invention may, in some embodiments, be envisaged to fit on either side of a hole through an exterior building wall, to help firefighters fight fires with extinguishing devices from outside a building, for firefighters who are looking to act more defensively or are unable to enter the building immediately but still want to manage the fire.

[0035] The device could also be installed internally to tackle a fire in an adjacent room without opening a door e.g. to a store cupboard, computer suite apartment in a block or hotel room off a corridor.

[0036] Advantageously this limits the requirement for firefighters to enterthe residence or building and improves safety for firefighter as fires can be tackled externally, and allows for improved speed of initial attack, as firefighters can tackle the fire externally while waiting for a full crew or back-up.

[0037] If firefighters have entered a building then a fire in a hazardous room can be tackled from an adjacent room without opening the door. P13199PC01

[0038] Embodiments of the present invention may provide a product that fits on either side of a hole through a building wall, to help firefighters fight fires with extinguishing devices from outside a building.

[0039] The product may be of modular design consisting of a three (for example) digit seven segment LED display, high-brightness LED, processor module (WiFi / Bluetooth capable), thermocouple interface, temperature configuration DIP switches, single momentary pushbutton and battery holder.

[0040] The product, after installation and on insertion of a battery, may monitor the thermocouple temperature and compare this to the configured temperature threshold (DIP switch configured) and on exceeding this threshold flash the current temperature reading on the display as well as flashing the high-brightness LED (when fitted).

[0041] Additionally, a momentary pushbutton can be depressed to display the current thermocouple temperature at any time.

[0042] The product may be powered by a Lithium Thionyl Chloride battery that will be continually monitored and a low battery indication given by flashing ‘bAt’ on the display every so often.

[0043] The product may be fitted within a waterproof enclosure that allows the LED display and high-brightness LED to be viewed through a front window and the thermocouple cable to exit the rear to pass through the building wall.

[0044] Some devices may include the means to receive fire hoses. This could, for example, be in the form of a specific receptacle and / or adaptor.

[0045] The present invention also provides a wall fitted with one or more devices formed in accordance with the present invention.

[0046] The present invention also provides a building fitted with one or more devices formed in accordance with the present invention.

[0047] The present invention also provides a method of controlling / suppressing / extinguishing a fire comprising use of a device formed in accordance with the present invention.

[0048] Benefits of Installing the Device

[0049] There are many advantages to installing the system; for firefighters, businesses, and insurance companies:

[0050] For Firefighters: P13199PC01

[0051] • Improved Firefighter Safety: The system provides a rapid means of getting firefighting media into the building from an external position, significantly improving safety by reducing the need for immediate entry into dangerous environments.

[0052] • Quick Intervention: The fast deployment of firefighting media allows for early intervention, helping to prevent the fire from spreading and reducing the likelihood of a backdraft.

[0053] • Targeted Deployment: The pre-installed device is placed in areas of greatest risk, allowing firefighters to focus their efforts on the most critical parts of the building, improving fire control and safety.

[0054] For Businesses:

[0055] • Faster Firefighting Response: Fires can be tackled much quicker, minimising damage and improving the chances of containment before they escalate. This minimises the time taken to return to business following a fire.

[0056] (25% of businesses experiencing a serious fire never reopen, 80% that don't recover within a month likely go out of business).

[0057] • Trained Staff Intervention: Trained staff can use adapted extinguishers to attack the fire from a safe location before the fire service arrives, reducing potential loss and ensuring a quicker response.

[0058] • Strategic Device Location: Each device is strategically assessed and installed in the most appropriate places, ensuring maximum effectiveness in high-risk areas of the building.

[0059] • Reduced Downtime: Rapid extinguishment of fires means that businesses can return to normal operations much sooner, minimising downtime and reducing the long-term impact on revenue and productivity.

[0060] • Enhanced Staff Retention: By ensuring a safer working environment and quicker recovery from fire incidents, businesses improve staff satisfaction and retention.

[0061] • Potential for Lower Insurance Premiums: With a proven system in place to reduce fire damage and risk, businesses may be eligible for reduced insurance premiums, helping to lower operating costs.

[0062] For Insurance Companies:

[0063] • Reduced Claims Payouts: The rapid extinguishment of fires and minimal damage significantly lowers the overall impact of fire-related claims, leading to fewer and smaller payouts for insurance companies.

[0064] • Lower Risk Exposure: With the Fire-in-the-Hole system in place, the risk of major fire damage is reduced, decreasing the likelihood of large claims and long-term financial exposure.

[0065] • Cost Savings: By limiting damage from fires, insurance companies can benefit from lower claim frequencies and reduced repair costs, ultimately saving money.

[0066] • Favorable Risk Assessment: Insurance companies may view businesses with this system as less risky, leading to more favorable policy terms and premium reductions.

[0067] The present invention will now be more particularly described, by way of example, with reference to, and as shown in, the accompanying drawings. P13199PC01

[0068] Brief Description of Figures

[0069] Figure 1 shows an isometric view of an embodiment of a device according to the present invention;

[0070] Figure 2 shows a reverse isometric view of the embodiment of the device shown in Figure 1 ;

[0071] Figure 3 shows a detail isometric view of the interaction unit from the embodiment shown in Figure 1 , with door opened;

[0072] Figure 4 shows a reverse isometric view of the embodiment of the device as shown in Figure 1 ;

[0073] Figure 5 shows an exploded isometric view of the embodiment of the device shown in Figure 1 ;

[0074] Figure 6 shows a reverse exploded isometric view of the embodiment of the device shown in Figure 1 ;

[0075] Figure 7 shows a detail isometric view of the interaction unit from the embodiment of the device shown in Figure 1 , with door removed;

[0076] Figure 8 shows a fully assembled front-side view of a device formed according to a further embodiment;

[0077] Figure 9 shows a rear view of the device of Figure 8;

[0078] Figure 10 shows a front view of an enclosure forming part of the device and shown in an open position;

[0079] Figure 11 shows a rear view of the enclosure of Figure 10;

[0080] Figure 12 shows an exploded front-end view of the device; and

[0081] Figure 13 shows a rear-side exploded view of the device.

[0082] Example embodiments are described below in sufficient detail to enable those of ordinary skill in the art to embody and implement the systems and processes herein described. It is important to understand that embodiments can be provided in many alternate forms and should not be construed as limited to the examples set forth herein.

[0083] Accordingly, while embodiments can be modified in various ways and take on various alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof are shown in the drawings and described in detail below as examples. There is no intent to limit to the particular forms disclosed. On the contrary, all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the appended claims should be included. P13199PC01

[0084] The terminology used herein to describe embodiments is not intended to limit the scope. The articles “a,” “an,” and “the” are singular in that they have a single referent, however the use of the singular form in the present document should not preclude the presence of more than one referent. In other words, elements referred to in the singular can number one or more, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” and / or “including,” when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, items, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, items, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0085] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein are to be interpreted as is customary in the art. It will be further understood that terms in common usage should also be interpreted as is customary in the relevant art and not in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0086] Detailed Description of Figures

[0087] With reference to Figures 1 to 7 there is shown an embodiment of a fire safety device generally comprising: an interaction unit 99 for mounting on a first side of a wall; and a transmission tunnel 199 passing through the wall from the first side to a second side of the wall; the transmission tunnel providing a sensor end 5 in relation to the second side of the wall for sensing presence of a fire on the second side of the wall, and the interaction unit 99 arranged to provide an interaction in relation to the sensor sensing a fire on the second side of the wall.

[0088] With reference to the pictured embodiment the embodiment comprises a unit 99 that has a monolithic housing 10 being largely square with a shallow depth, with a door 19 that is hinged at a hinge 11 down one side of the front edge of the housing, and with the rear edge being attached to the wall in use by screw fixings 13.

[0089] In other embodiments the hinge may be on top, not on one side.

[0090] The door comprises a screen module 20, which provides a display screen and a control button.

[0091] In other embodiments the / a screen is now incorporated in a faceplate so a door has to be opened to see the display.

[0092] The housing comprises two battery saddles 16, each of which accepts a displaceable battery 15, in the pictured embodiment a C lithium ion battery, which may be recharged by a facilities manager or similar.

[0093] Battery fitment changed, single battery, Initial concept will not have rechargeable or C type. Simple battery replacement by removal of faceplate. P13199PC01

[0094] Other embodiments may, for example, have solar panels to enable trickle charging to rechargeable batteries.

[0095] The saddles include electrical connectors 22 which connect the batteries 15 to a printed circuit board 14 and to the screen module 20 when the door is closed. The screen module comprises a transparent screen cover 18 for security.

[0096] A PCB may incorporate a battery holder and a seven (for example) segment display.

[0097] In this way in order to replace the batteries the facilities manager would simply need to open the door to access the batteries in the saddles.

[0098] The door and housing in the pictured embodiment each comprise a lanyard attachment point, and in the pictured embodiment a key padlock 12 is used to lock the door closed on the housing. Further embodiments may comprise combination locks, integrated or otherwise, or other locking means, for example electronic locking means for use with an electronic or ferromagnetic key.

[0099] Between the battery saddles there is visible an end to a pipe 7. In other embodiments the end is not between batteries.

[0100] The pipe end comprises a resiliently deformable blocking plug 9, which plug provides a displaceable block to the pipe. This plug may be formed in a cellular plastic foam or similar so as to expand to fill the pipe and prevent unauthorised dislodging.

[0101] In this way the blocking plug may be easily displaced when the door is opened, so as to allow for introduction of the fire extinguisher wand into the transmission tunnel so as to operate this on the distal side of the wall.

[0102] The pipe 7 has an internal diameter of 30mm and is a cylindrical elongate tube with a hollow centre and open ends, formed in polyethylene or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or the like rigid plastics. Other embodiments may have a different internal diameter, for example 25mm.

[0103] During installation, a threaded end of the central pipe screws directly into a corresponding thread in the housing, to create an IP67 water rating. The housing features a lip and groove with a tight tolerance fit of the door to prevent water leakage inside.

[0104] In other embodiments the pipe may be attached, but may not be threaded.

[0105] The box may be water resistant. For example the box may be IP66 rated. P13199PC01

[0106] A perforated ABS plate 5 on the distal sensor end of the pipe is screwed by screw fixings 3 to the distal side of the wall and comprises a seal for the transmission tunnel, such seal provided by a rupturable sealing membrane 4, and a displaceable capping ABS plate which may be tolerance or interference fit over the perforated ABS plate 5.

[0107] The plate may not be present in all embodiments. For example, there may be a wall mounting plate that will be screwed to the internal wall. A displaceable (push fit) decor plate (metal to transfer heat to the thermocouple attached) may be fitted to the mounting plate (other options could be magnets or spring clips.

[0108] The distal second sensor end of the pipe 7 comprises a screw fit end cap 6 to the perforated plate.

[0109] In some embodiments there is no screw fit end cap, but there may be a second intumescent foam plug the same as the other end of the tube.

[0110] In the pictured embodiment the capping plate includes magnets 2 which attract to the fixings 3. In other embodiments reference numeral 2 could denote something other than magnets e.g. washers, caps or the like.

[0111] In this way, in use a user will:

[0112] Determine the internal temperature of the room using the temperature reading on the screen;

[0113] If applicable, break the seal of the distal end of the transmission tunnel;

[0114] Place the extinguishing device through the transmission tunnel;

[0115] Once the extinguishing device is inside the room, activate it to tackle the fire.

[0116] The pipe end, pipe and seal forms the transmission tunnel for sensing of air at the interaction unit 99 in relation to air at the distal end of the pipe.

[0117] In this way the pipe passes through a wall, and the hollow centre of the pipe comprises a tunnel for transmission of air from one side of the wall to the other.

[0118] It may be envisaged that the transmission tube may include an air movement device such as a fan.

[0119] In the pictured embodiment the blocking plug supports a sensor 8, which passes from one side of the blocking plug 9 in the hollow centre of the pipe 7, to the opposed side of the blocking plug, where it engages with the screen module. P13199PC01

[0120] The screen module comprises a 7 segment display screen for minimal power usage and simple easy to read display means to relay danger warnings or reassurance to users.

[0121] Figures 8 to 13 illustrate a device formed according to a further embodiment, with reference numerals shown in circles.

[0122] This embodiment provides a product that fits on either side of a hole through a building wall, to help firefighters fight fires with extinguishing devices from outside a building.

[0123] The product is of modular design consisting of a three (for example) digit seven segment LED display, high-brightness LED, processor module (WiFi / Bluetooth capable), thermocouple interface, temperature configuration DIP switches, single momentary pushbutton and battery holder. P13199PC01

[0124] The product, after installation and on insertion of a battery, monitors the thermocouple temperature and compare this to the configured temperature threshold (DIP switch configured) and on exceeding this threshold flash the current temperature reading on the display as well as flashing the high-brightness LED (when fitted).

[0125] Additionally, a momentary pushbutton can be depressed to display the current thermocouple temperature at any time.

[0126] The device is powered by a Lithium Thionyl Chloride battery that will be continually monitored and a low battery indication given by flashing ‘bAt’ on the display every so often.

[0127] The device is provided within a waterproof enclosure that allows the LED display and high-brightness LED to be viewed through a front window and the thermocouple cable to exit the rear to pass through the building wall.

[0128] The invention has been described by way of examples only and it will be appreciated that variation may be made to the above-mentioned embodiments without departing from the scope of protection as defined by the claims.

Claims

P13199PC01CLAIMS1 . A fire safety device comprising: an interaction unit for mounting on a first side of a wall; and a transmission tunnel passing through the wall from the first side to a second side of the wall; the transmission tunnel providing a sensor end in relation to the second side of the wall for sensing presence of a fire on the second side of the wall, and the interaction unit arranged to provide an interaction in relation to the sensor sensing a fire on the second side of the wall.

2. A fire safety device according to claim 1 wherein the interaction unit comprises an entrance to the transmission tunnel.

3. A fire safety device according to claim 1 or 2 comprising a displaceable sensor.

4. A fire safety device according to claim 3 wherein the displaceable sensor is attached to a foam plug.

5. A fire safety device according to claim 3, in which the sensor is attached to the displaceable decor plate.

6. A fire safety device according to any of claims 3 to 5, in which the sensor is a thermocouple.

7. A fire safety device according to claim 6, in which the wire of the thermocouple runs through the tube in the wall to the display on the outer wall.

8. A fire safety device according to claim 7, in which a foam plug is pushed into the tube and the wire either runs alongside the foam plug or through the centre of it.

9. A fire safety device according to any preceding claim, wherein a temperature sensor is fixed onto a plate on the sensor side of the wall.

10. A fire safety device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the interaction unit is arranged for receipt of a fire extinguishing wand.

11. A fire safety device according to any preceding claim, wherein the interaction unit comprises a sensor control means.

12. A fire safety device according to any preceding claim, wherein the interaction unit comprises a display means.P13199PC0113. A fire safety device according to any preceding claim, wherein the device comprises an alert means.

14. A fire safety device according to any preceding claim, wherein the interaction unit comprises wireless network connectivity.

15. A fire safety device according to any preceding claim, wherein the interaction unit comprises a loudspeaker.

16. A fire safety device according to any preceding claim, wherein the interaction unit comprises a light source.

17. A fire safety device according to any preceding claim, comprising a ventilation means to the transmission tunnel.

18. A fire safety device according to any preceding claim comprising an air movement means in the transmission tunnel.

19. A structure including a device according to any of the preceding claims.

20. A means of firefighting comprising a structure according to claim 19.

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