A nitrogen-powered compressed air foam apparatus for fire suppression with integrated dosing and mixing ability

Abstract

This invention relates to a fire suppression device and the apparatus is a self-contained, movable unit that produces fine-bubble firefighting foam on-demand without requiring external power or water sources. It comprises a foam and water tank, nitrogen capsule, mixing chamber, venturi injector, hose reel, and control panel. The device enables precise control over pressure, flow, and injection parameters, allowing for adjustable foam patterns. The integrated dosing mechanism injects foam concentrate at a controlled ratio, ensuring effective fire suppression. The apparatus is ideal for rapid response applications, providing a reliable and efficient means of extinguishing fires in various environments. Its compact design and autonomous operation make it an invaluable tool for firefighters and emergency responders.

Description

A Nitrogen-Powered Compressed Air Foam Apparatus for Fire Suppression with Integrated Dosing and Mixing Ability

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of firefighting and fire suppression technologies, specifically to the development and formulation of advanced fire extinguishing foam concentrates used in Compressed Air Foam Systems (CAFS). The invention focuses on the chemical composition and synergistic effects of surfactants, stabilizing polymers, humectants, corrosion inhibitors, biocides, pH adjusters, and specialty additives that enhance foam stability, adhesion, freeze resistance, and environmental compatibility. This improved foam composition is designed to provide superior fire suppression performance, durability under varying environmental conditions, and equipment protection in firefighting applications.

[0002] Overview of Available Firefighting Technologies and Their Disadvantages

[0003] 1- Water-Based Firefighting Systems:The most common firefighting approach involves using water to cool fire and suppress flames. This can be via hoses, sprinklers, or deluge systems. Disadvantages of this system includes:

[0004] Water Damage: Excessive water can cause significant property damage and electrical hazards.

[0005] Ineffectiveness on Certain Fires: Water is ineffective on oil, chemical, or electrical fires.

[0006] Environmental Impact: Large water usage can cause runoff contamination.

[0007] Limited Reach: Water jets may have limited reach or pressure issues.

[0008] 2- Foam-Based Fire Suppression Systems:Foam systems (such as CAFS) mix water, foam concentrate, and air to produce foam that blankets the fire, suppressing vapors and cooling surfaces. Disadvantages of foam-based are as follow:

[0009] Chemical Residues: Some foam agents (especially older fluorocarbon-based) cause environmental and health concerns.

[0010] Foam Stability: Foam can degrade under high temperatures or prolonged exposure.

[0011] Equipment Complexity: Requires precise mixing systems and specialized equipment.

[0012] Cost: Foam concentrates can be expensive and require safe handling.

[0013] 3- Dry Chemical Fire Suppressants: Dry powders (e.g., monoammonium phosphate) are discharged to interrupt chemical reactions in fire. Disadvantages of dry chemical are as follow:

[0014] Cleanup Issues: Powder residues are corrosive and hard to clean, damaging equipment.

[0015] Limited Effectiveness: Ineffective on some class D (metal) fires or deep-seated fires.

[0016] Short Duration: Can be blown away by wind or dissipate quickly.

[0017] 4. Gas-Based Fire Suppression (Inert or Chemical Gases):Systems like CO₂, FM-200, or inert gas systems reduce oxygen concentration or chemically inhibit combustion. Disadvantages of gas-based system are as follow:

[0018] Human Safety Risks: Some gases are asphyxiants, hazardous to humans in enclosed spaces.

[0019] High Cost: Installation and refilling costs are high.

[0020] Limited Use Areas: Mainly suitable for enclosed spaces like server rooms, not open areas.

[0021] 5. Water Mist Systems: Generate fine water droplets to absorb heat and displace oxygen around the fire. Disadvantages water mist system are as follow:

[0022] Limited Application: Not suitable for large fires or outdoor fires.

[0023] High Pressure Needed: Requires special pumps and piping.

[0024] Cost: Installation and maintenance can be costly.

[0025] 6. Thermal and Optical Fire Detection Systems:Early fire detection using sensors such as heat, smoke, flame, or infrared detectors to trigger alarms and suppression. Disadvantages of the thermal and optical fire detection system are as follow:

[0026] False Alarms: Sensitive sensors can trigger false alarms, leading to unnecessary evacuations or suppressant release.

[0027] Limited Suppression: Detection alone does not extinguish fire, needs to be paired with suppression systems.

[0028] The present invention provides a portable fire suppression device that offers a range of innovative features and capabilities. The device features a main body structure mounted on a movable platform, allowing for easy transportation and deployment. A foam and water tank is integrated into the body, and a nitrogen capsule supplies pressurized gas to power the system. The device includes a mixing chamber with a turbulence-inducing structure that creates uniform bubble formation and enhances foam stability. A venturi injector or equivalent dosing mechanism injects foam concentrate at a controlled ratio, which can be selected by the operator as 3% or 6%. The device also features a hose reel with a flexible discharge hose and a nozzle that can be adjusted to provide a direct jet, mist, or wide spray pattern. The nozzle is constructed from chemical- and heat-resistant materials, ensuring durability and reliability. The device is capable of producing fine-bubble firefighting foam on-demand without external power or water sources, making it ideal for rapid response applications. Additionally, the device can be equipped with an integrated AI or digital control module that enables real-time adjustment of foam ratio, spray pressure, and nozzle mode based on sensor input. The system is also modular and refillable, allowing for rapid turnaround during multi-phase firefighting operations. The device uses environmentally safe, fluorine-free foam concentrate that is effective against Class A, B, or lithium-ion battery fires. Furthermore, the nitrogen gas can be sourced from either a compressed gas cylinder or a liquid nitrogen tank with an integrated heat exchanger, providing flexibility and convenience. The device is designed for easy transport and deployment, featuring wheels and upper / lower mounting brackets that enable secure placement in urban or industrial environments. Overall, the present invention provides a highly effective and versatile fire suppression system that can be used in a variety of applications.

[0029] In the Drawings, identical reference numbers identify same elements. The size and shape and relative position of elements are not necessarily drawn to scale. Further, the particular shapes of the elements as drawn, are not exactly as the actual shape of particular elements and are schematic and have been selected for ease of recognition in the drawings. The drawing figures depict one or more implementations in accord with the present teachings, by way of example only, not by way of limitation.Fig.1

[0030] illustrates the main elements of the portable embodiment of the invention.Fig.2

[0031] illustrates the venturi of the portable embodiment of the invention.Fig.3

[0032] illustrates the main elements of the portable embodiment of the invention in details.Fig.4

[0033] illustrates the main elements of the central embodiment of the invention.Fig.5

[0034] illustrates the main elements of the central embodiment of the invention in details.

[0035] Compressed Air Foam System (CAFS) is an advanced technology in the field of fire suppression that goes beyond the simple combination of water, foam concentrate, and air, offering an engineered approach to fire management. The production of fine-cell, low-density foam (0.05 to 0.2 g / cm³) not only increases the coverage area and foam stability on surfaces but also significantly improves heat transfer efficiency and cooling due to the increased surface-to-volume ratio of the bubbles. The high adhesion of this foam enables effective application on vertical and underside surfaces—an essential factor in firefighting in complex structures and forests. Various spray patterns from specialized nozzles (ranging from direct jets for reaching distant points to mist sprays for wide coverage and rapid cooling) provide firefighters with greater tactical flexibility.

[0036] The fire suppression mechanisms of CAFS operate synergistically: oxygen separation from the fuel surface, deep cooling due to latent heat absorption during water evaporation in the fine foam structure, prevention of flammable vapor release that could lead to reignition, and effective penetration into porous materials such as wood and fibers all contribute to rapid and complete fire suppression. The dramatic reduction in water usage—up to 90%—not only helps conserve vital resources but also reduces the weight of the required equipment for water transport, facilitating quicker access to difficult terrain. The excellent and uniform coverage of CAFS foam, especially on uneven surfaces, creates a protective barrier that prevents fire spread and reduces damage from heat and smoke.

[0037] The flexibility to produce foams with different moisture levels (from very wet foams with high penetration ability for deep-seated fires in solid materials to dry and stable foams for long-lasting protective layers) makes this system suitable for a wide range of applications. The use of eco-friendly foam concentrates—produced under stricter environmental standards—minimizes ecological impacts from firefighting operations and supports biodiversity preservation.

[0038] CAFS not only reduces fire extinguishing time by up to 50% on average but also significantly lowers the risk of re-ignition due to its deep penetration and stable protective layer formation. These features make CAFS a powerful and transformative tool in modern fire management across various sectors including industrial firefighting involving high hydrocarbon fire risks, oil-related industries such as petrochemical and refining, tank fires, processing units and loading zones, large-scale wildfires, urban firefighting with the challenges of tall and dense structures, and aviation safety requiring rapid jet fuel fire suppression. Ultimately, CAFS enhances both safety and operational efficiency while aiding in water conservation and reducing environmental damage.

[0039] List of Main Components of the CAFS and Descriptions are as follow:

[0040] 1. Water Supply:Provides the base solvent and cooling agent to form foam and reduce fire temperature. Water must be clean and free from impurities and suspended particles to prevent system clogging. Equipment required for this element are listed bellow:

[0041] Storage tank or independent water supply connected to the system.

[0042] Pump (centrifugal or piston type) or any pressurizing system for water delivery.

[0043] Inlet filters to remove solids or deionized water in the system.

[0044] 2. Foam Proportioner:Adds foam concentrate to the water stream at an accurate ratio to form foam solution. May offer adjustable injection ratios for different foam types (Class A, B, etc.) or be preset. Mechanisms for foam proportioner are as follow:

[0045] Venturi system (uses pressure differential to draw foam).

[0046] Mechanical pumps (injection type).

[0047] Electronic system (digital control with flow sensors).

[0048] Foam Concentrates: Includes Class A foams, AFFF, AR-AFFF, or fluorine-free foams (F3).

[0049] 3. Compressed Air Source:Provides compressed air to form fine bubbles, increasing foam volume, adhesion, and throw distance. Must provide a stable airflow free of moisture and particles. Equipment are as follow:

[0050] Rotary screw compressor (connected to diesel / electric motor) or modern VSD compressors.

[0051] Portable compressed air cylinders (for mobile systems).

[0052] Pressure regulators and cooling systems for air management.

[0053] 4. Liquid Nitrogen or Other Liquefied Gases:Provides compressed gas (e.g., nitrogen or other inert gases) in liquid or compressed form for bubble formation instead of air, especially in sensitive environments requiring non-oxygen gases. The main feature is safely conversion from liquid to gas with controlled pressure and temperature. Equipment required are as follow:

[0054] Cryogenic tanks for liquid gas storage.

[0055] Vaporizers for gas conversion.

[0056] Pressure control valves and safety systems to prevent leaks or explosions.

[0057] Nitrogen Gas Generator with Heat Exchanger: Converts liquid nitrogen to gas via heat exchanger for stable foam generation with precise temperature and pressure control.

[0058] 5. Mixing Chamber:Turbulent mixing of water, foam concentrate, and air or other gases to create uniform foam with fine bubbles. Design should promote turbulent flow and prevent foam accumulation. Equipment required for mixing chamber are as follow:

[0059] Baffles, Venturis, or angled / spiral structures for turbulence creation.

[0060] 6. High-Pressure Pump Unit:Provides the necessary pressure and flow to deliver foam solution and compressed gases to the nozzle. Must be high-pressure and chemical-resistant with stable flow. Equipment are as follow:

[0061] Centrifugal (fixed systems) or piston pumps (portable systems).

[0062] Diesel or electric motor for power.

[0063] Relief valves and cooling systems for safe operation.

[0064] In small systems, compressed air balloons may be used.

[0065] 7. Foam Nozzle:Dispenses foam in a controlled pattern (direct jet, piping / sprinkler, mist, or combination) for optimal fire coverage. Main features are Adjustable spray pattern, chemical-resistant, and compatible with various nozzle types. Equipment are listed bellow:

[0066] Internal diffuser and turbulence generator for uniform spray.

[0067] Durable materials like stainless steel or engineering polymers (e.g., PTFE).

[0068] Smart nozzles (connected or independent) for fire detection and suppression.

[0069] 8. Control and Monitoring System:Monitors and adjusts operational parameters like pressure, flow rate, foam ratio, and gas status. Main Feature is Simple user interface and digital (PLC) connectivity. Equipment required are as follow:

[0070] Pressure, flow, and temperature sensors.

[0071] Manual / digital control panels for operator settings.

[0072] Status displays for real-time monitoring.

[0073] Infrared cameras to detect fire center.

[0074] 9. Distributed Control Network:Coordinates components (pumps, nozzles, compressors, foam injector, etc.) for distributed control and performance optimization in complex / large-scale systems. Main Features are Real-time data processing, fault detection, and auto-adjustment and main Capabilities are Automatic diagnostics, fault alerts via SMS / email to designated users. Equipment are as follow:

[0075] Local control modules for each component.

[0076] Industrial communication protocols (e.g., Modbus, CANopen, Ethernet).

[0077] Network management software for coordination and central monitoring.

[0078] 10. Artificial Intelligence:Optimizes system performance via operational data analysis, fire condition prediction, automatic parameter adjustments (e.g., foam ratio or spray pressure), and real-time recommendations for operators. Main Capabilities are Machine learning, sensor data processing, and system integration.

[0079] CAFS System Operation Process

[0080] 1. Water Supply:Water is supplied or injected into the system using appropriate methods with the required flow rate.

[0081] 2. Foam Injection:Foam concentrate is added to the water stream through a Venturi system, pump, or digital injector.

[0082] 3. Compressed Air or Gas Addition:Compressed air (from a compressor or variable air induction valve) or gases such as nitrogen (from cryogenic tanks or a nitrogen gas generator with a heat exchanger) or various types of gas cylinders are injected into the solution.

[0083] 4. Turbulent Mixing:In the mixing unit, turbulent flow generates fine and uniform bubbles.

[0084] 5. Foam Discharge:Foam is sprayed from the nozzle toward the fire in an appropriate pattern. Through adhesion, vapor suppression, cooling, oxygen separation, and penetration, it suppresses the fire.

[0085] 6. Control and Optimization:Mechanical systems or AI-enabled systems with distributed communication networks analyze data, adjust parameters, and ensure component coordination.Examples

[0086] Theandillustrates a Portable Nitrogen-Powered Compressed Air Foam Apparatus for Fire Suppression with Integrated Dosing and Mixing Ability. The apparatus is supported by a sturdy base, with a Lower Bracket (1) providing a foundation for the device. A large Foam and Water Tank (2) is secured to the lower bracket, with a designated Tank Charging Location (3) allowing for easy refilling of the tank.

[0087] A Relief Valve (4) is strategically positioned on the tank to ensure safe pressure release, while a Pressure Gauge (5) monitors the internal pressure of the system. A flexible Hose (6) connects the tank to the upper portion of the apparatus, which is held in place by an Upper Bracket (7). The hose terminates at a Nozzle (8), through which the compressed air foam is discharged trough Venturi (11).

[0088] A Nitrogen Capsule (9) is integrated into the apparatus, providing the power source for compressing the air and creating the foam. The entire device is mounted on a Wheel (10), enabling easy mobility and deployment of the fire suppression system. Theprovides a detailed representation of the various components and their relationships, demonstrating the overall design and functionality of the Nitrogen-Powered Compressed Air Foam Apparatus for Fire Suppression with Integrated Dosing and Mixing Ability.

[0089] Theandillustrates an alternative embodiment of the Nitrogen-Powered Compressed Air Foam Apparatus for Fire Suppression with Integrated Dosing and Mixing Ability, configured as a fixed or central system. The apparatus is housed within a sturdy BODY (1), which provides a protective enclosure for the internal components.

[0090] A Nitrogen Capsule (2) is mounted within the body, serving as the power source for generating the compressed air foam. A Fabric Hose Location (3) is provided, allowing for connection of fabric hoses that can be routed to various areas of a facility or building. An Equipment Box (4) is also integrated into the apparatus, containing necessary controls and hardware for operating the system.

[0091] A large TANK (5) is positioned within the body, storing the foam and water mixture. A HOSE REEL (6) is mounted on the apparatus, allowing for easy deployment and retraction of hoses connected to the fabric hose location. A CONTROL PANEL (7) is strategically located on the exterior of the body, providing a centralized interface for operating and monitoring the system.

[0092] This fixed or central embodiment of the invention is designed for installation in a permanent location, such as a building or facility, where it can provide a reliable and effective fire suppression system. The drawing provides a detailed representation of the various components and their relationships, demonstrating the overall design and functionality of this alternative embodiment of the Nitrogen-Powered Compressed Air Foam Apparatus for Fire Suppression with Integrated Dosing and Mixing Ability.

[0093] Classes of the Foams

[0094] 1. Class A Foams:These foams are designed for fires involving combustible solids (wood, paper, fabric, plastic) and are typically used in urban and wildland firefighting:

[0095] Standard Class A Foam: For general Class A fires with good penetration and cooling.

[0096] Enhanced Class A Foam: Contains additives like surfactants to improve penetration into cellulosic materials.

[0097] High-Viscosity Class A Foam: Creates thicker coverage and better adhesion to vertical surfaces (suitable for forest fires).

[0098] Biodegradable Class A Foam: Formulated for minimal environmental impact.

[0099] Wetting Agents: Not true foams, but additives used in CAFS to improve water penetration in Class A fires.

[0100] 2. Class B Foams:These foams are designed for flammable liquid fires (gasoline, oil, solvents) and are divided into fluorinated and fluorine-free types:

[0101] A) Fluorinated Foams:

[0102] AFFF (Aqueous Film-Forming Foam): Standard AFFF (1%, 3%, or 6%): Forms a thin film to separate fuel from oxygen, Low-Viscosity AFFF: For faster flow applications, Cold Weather AFFF: For use in cold climates with lower freezing points.

[0103] AR-AFFF (Alcohol-Resistant AFFF): Resistant to polar solvents (alcohol, acetone) with a protective polymer layer.

[0104] FFFP (Film-Forming Fluoroprotein): Combines protein base and fluorinated agents for hydrocarbon fire stability.

[0105] FP (Fluoroprotein): Protein base with fluorinated additives for flammable liquid fires.

[0106] B) Fluorine-Free Foams:

[0107] F3 (Fluorine-Free Foam): Eco-friendly AFFF alternatives with no PFAS (e.g., National Foam Universal F3 Green).

[0108] SFFF (Synthetic Fluorine-Free Foam): Uses synthetic surfactants similar to AFFF without fluorine (e.g., Solberg RF3x6 ATC).

[0109] CAFSS (Compressed Air Foam System Surfactants): Special surfactants for foam generation in CAFS.

[0110] Classification of Components and Performance of Foam in CAFS Systems

[0111] The components of fire extinguishing foam and their roles in Compressed Air Foam Systems (CAFS) are categorized as follows:

[0112] 1-Surfactants:Reduce water surface tension, form foam bubbles, rapidly spread foam over fuel surfaces. Various Types are as follow:

[0113] Anionic: Strong foaming, reduces surface tension.

[0114] Nonionic: Foam stability, improves spreadability.

[0115] Amphoteric: Foam enhancement, increased resistance to contamination.

[0116] Performance in CAFS includes:

[0117] Production of fine, uniform bubbles under compressed air.

[0118] Creation of a protective layer on fuel to prevent vapor release.

[0119] 2-Stabilizing Polymers:Increase viscosity, prevent rapid drainage of liquid from bubbles, improve adhesion. Various Types are mentioned bellow:

[0120] Natural polysaccharides (e.g., xanthan gum, CMC).

[0121] Synthetic polymers (e.g., polyvinyl alcohol, polyacrylamide).

[0122] Performance in CAFS are:

[0123] Maintain bubble structure against compressed air pressure.

[0124] Increase foam resistance to high temperatures and environmental conditions.

[0125] 3- Humectants & Antifreeze Agents:Retain moisture in bubbles, lower freezing point for operation in low temperatures. Types includes Glycerol, propylene glycol.

[0126] Performance in CAFS are:

[0127] Prolong foam life in dry or cold environments.

[0128] Improve foam flexibility under varying conditions.

[0129] 4- Corrosion Inhibitors:Protect metal equipment (nozzles, pipes, tanks) from corrosion. Types includes Sodium benzoate, sodium nitrite.

[0130] Performance in CAFS are Prevent damage to equipment under pressure and continuous foam flow.

[0131] 5- Biocides:Prevent bacterial and fungal growth in the foam solution. Types are

[0132] Benzalkonium chloride, bronopol.

[0133] Performance in CAFS includes Maintaining foam solution quality during long-term storage.

[0134] 6- pH Adjusters:Maintain pH within optimal range (6.5–8) for surfactant performance. Types includes Sodium hydroxide, sodium citrate.

[0135] Performance in CAFS are Ensuring chemical stability of foam under various conditions.

[0136] 7- Special Additives:Enhance specific properties (e.g., color, identification, or resistance to special conditions). Types include Food-grade dyes, nanoparticles, heat-resistant polymers.

[0137] Performance in CAFS are Easy foam identification, structural reinforcement under pressure or heat.

[0138] AFFF formulation (6% type) for CAFS

[0139] This (Table 1) formulation is designed for hydrocarbon fires (Class B) and is compatible with CAFS requirements (fine bubbles, high stability).

[0140] MaterialWeight PercentageApplicationChemical FormulaDeionized Water62–65%Base solventH₂OFluorosurfactant C6 (6:2 FTAB)4–5%Forming aqueous film, reducing surface tensionCF₃(CF₂)₄CH₂CH₂SO₃NaNonionic Surfactant (Decyl Glucoside)5–6%Foam stability, biodegradabilityC₁₆H₃₂O₆Anionic Surfactant (SLES)3–4%Foaming, reducing surface tensionCH₃(CH₂)₁₁(OCH₂CH₂)ₙOSO₃NaCocamidopropyl Betaine (CAPB)2–3%Foam boosting, stabilityC₁₉H₃₈N₂O₃Propylene Glycol5–7%Antifreeze, moisture retentionC₃H₈O₂Hydroxyethyl Cellulose (HEC)2.5–3.5%Viscosity increase, stability[C₆H₇O₂(OH)ₓ]ₙXanthan Gum0.5–1%Stabilizer, adhesionPolysaccharideSodium Benzoate0.8–1.2%Anti-corrosion, preservativeC₇H₅NaO₂Bronopol0.4–0.6%AntibacterialC₃H₆BrNO₄Sodium Citrate0.2–0.4%pH adjustment (6.5–8)C₆H₅Na₃O₇Edible Blue Dye0.1–0.2%Foam identificationFD&C Blue No. 1

[0141] Fluorine-free (F3) foam formulation for CAFS

[0142] Substance NamePercentage (%)Molecular NameChemical FormulaWater53.648%Deionized WaterH₂OMEG18.240%Monoethylene GlycolC₂H₆O₂Betaine7.511%TrimethylglycineC₅H₁₁NO₂Mole 106.438%Nonylphenol EthoxylateC₉H₁₉C₆H₄(OCH₂CH₂)₁₀OHBorax3.219%Sodium Tetraborate DecahydrateNa₂B₄O₇·10H₂OEDTA0.107%Ethylenediaminetetraacetic AcidC₁₀H₁₆N₂O₈Thiazoline0.107%IsothiazolinoneC₄H₅NOSUrea10.730%Carbonic Acid DiamideCH₄N₂O

[0143] Advanced CAFS Foams (An Effective Solution for Lithium-Ion Battery Fires):Advanced CAFS foams are specially formulated to suppress lithium-ion battery fires (Class D) through deep cooling and the creation of an insulating layer. These foams rapidly absorb heat, lower battery cell temperatures, and prevent thermal runaway, while their sticky foam layer blocks oxygen and retains heat, thus preventing re-ignition. These properties are enhanced with fluorine-free and environmentally friendly materials.

[0144] Portable CAFS System (Capsule-Type):The portable CAFS unit, designed for rapid emergency deployment, is a standalone, mobile foam generation system. It includes a durable capsule (typically made of stainless steel, aluminum, or reinforced composites) containing foam concentrate, water, and compressed gas (such as nitrogen) or liquid nitrogen. It produces high-expansion, fine-bubble foam without external resources. Equipped with an adjustable nozzle for optimized density and coverage, and an internal dosing mechanism for accurate foam concentrate mixing (typically 3% or 6%), it is ideal for Class A, B (hydrocarbon and polar), and F fires. Its lightweight, ergonomic, and refillable design makes it suitable for industrial, firefighting vehicle, and rescue operations.

[0145] High-Volume Portable Systems:These are powerful, refillable units designed for large-scale foam firefighting operations such as industrial, forest, or urban fires. They feature separate tanks for water and foam concentrate, precision dosing pumps (typically 3% or 6%), and compressed gas sources (like liquid nitrogen with evaporators or gas cylinders) to produce high-expansion, stable-bubble foam. They include adjustable nozzles for wide coverage and optimal density, and are compatible with various water sources (hydrants, independent tanks, or fire trucks). Wheeled designs enable easy transport during emergencies, and vehicle-mounted versions with external compressor connectivity enhance operational flexibility.

[0146] Use of Drones and Robots in Firefighting with Advanced CAFS Systems:Advanced CAFS systems with lightweight equipment and specialized extinguishing foams can be easily installed on ground robots, drones, and aerial vehicles. Using smart nozzles and high-pressure foam, they allow precise and effective extinguishing in hard-to-reach areas, tall structures, and hazardous industrial environments. Integrated remote control technologies and AI ensure seamless coordination with robotic and aerial platforms, enhancing response speed and accuracy and revolutionizing firefighting in critical and inaccessible conditions.

[0147] Independent and Multipurpose CAFS System:This advanced CAFS can produce high-performance firefighting foam using various water sources (hydrants, fire trucks, or independent sources) and without the need for pumps or air compressors, relying instead on liquid nitrogen or compressed gases in cylinders. It includes a precision dosing pump for controlled foam concentrate injection, an optimized mixing unit with advanced geometric design for stable and uniform bubbles, and adjustable nozzles for ideal density and coverage. It can also connect to independent air compressors or pumps as backup. This engineered design, combining precise mixing and gas injection technologies, creates a highly efficient, flexible, and responsive firefighting system.

[0148] Smart Firefighting Systems with Nanotechnology:The use of advanced nanomaterials in CAFS foams marks a major breakthrough in fire suppression technology. Engineered nanomaterials like reinforced graphene oxide and silica nanoparticles act as active catalysts, absorbing flammable gases and effectively neutralizing heat transfer. This technology boosts foam’s thermal resistance up to 800°C, preserving its structure under extreme fire conditions. It also selectively absorbs volatile organic compounds (VOCs), reducing toxic gas emissions by up to 40% and cutting chemical waste volume by 60% compared to conventional foams. These advancements improve the system’s efficiency in complex industrial fires and set new standards for environmental safety and bio-sustainability.

[0149] A unique feature of these nanofoams is their optimized use in smart firefighting systems based on drones and robotics, which require lightweight materials with exceptional performance.

[0150] This innovation positions CAFS as a strategic solution for fire suppression challenges in oil facilities, petrochemical plants, and densely populated urban centers.

Claims

A portable fire suppression device, comprising:a main body structure mounted on a movable platform;a foam and water tank integrated into said body;a nitrogen capsule configured to supply pressurized gas;a mixing chamber operably connected to the foam and water tank and the nitrogen capsule;a venturi injector or equivalent dosing mechanism configured to inject foam concentrate at a controlled ratio;a hose reel storing a flexible discharge hose;a nozzle at the end of the hose for dispersing foam in an adjustable pattern, anda control panel operably connected to regulate pressure, flow, and injection parameters;wherein the device is capable of producing fine-bubble firefighting foam on-demand without external power or water sources.The device of claim 1, wherein the nitrogen capsule is configured with a safety relief valve and pressure gauge to monitor internal gas pressure.The device of claim 1, wherein the mixing chamber contains a turbulence-inducing structure to create uniform bubble formation and enhance foam stability.The device of claim 1, further comprising an integrated AI or digital control module capable of real-time adjustment of foam ratio, spray pressure, and nozzle mode based on sensor input.The device of claim 1, wherein the nozzle is adjustable to provide a direct jet, mist, or wide spray pattern, and is constructed from chemical- and heat-resistant polymer or metal.The device of claim 1, wherein the foam concentrate is fluorine-free and environmentally safe, and formulated for Class A, B, or lithium-ion battery fires.The device of claim 1, wherein the nitrogen gas is sourced from either a compressed gas cylinder or a liquid nitrogen tank with integrated heat exchanger.The device of claim 1, further comprising wheels and upper / lower mounting brackets for easy transport and deployment in urban or industrial environments.The device of claim 1, wherein the dosing system allows for 3% or 6% foam concentrate ratios selectable by the operator.The device of claim 1, wherein the entire system is modular and refillable, enabling rapid turnaround during multi-phase firefighting operations.

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