Equipment for shelters and safe rooms

Abstract

The present invention relates to a dual or multi purpose wall passage (Fig. 1) configured to be embedded in a concrete wall of a safe room and a method thereof enabling simple installation of both an overpressure relief valve with airflow indicator and a split type air conditioning system as well as additional services in a safe room. The device comprises a wall sleeve including through-wall passing duct 20 or ducts 20, 30 ending with a flange 40 facing the interior of safe room; a front plate 50, 55 attached to the flange, the front plate carrying an overpressure relief valve 60, 65 and an airflow indicator 70, 75 visible to the interior of the safe room. The dual or multi purpose wall passage further comprises at least one sealable passage configured for routing of conduits 80 of a split type air conditioning system into the safe room, while maintaining blast protection and air tightness. The method relates to implementing assembly of a split type air conditioning system and an over pressure relief valve with airflow indicator, as well as other services, in a dual or multi purpose wall passage 10, configured to be embedded in a concrete wall of a safe room and the steps of installation.

Description

[0001] EQUIPMENT FOR SHELTERS AND SAFE ROOMS

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to a dual or multi purpose wall passage enabling simple installation of an overpressure relief valve and an air conditioning unit as well as some auxiliary services in protected spaces such as shelters and safe rooms.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] It is known in life saving protection shelters and safe rooms, to use an air filtration system typically fitted to a wall sleeve embedded in the concrete wall. For proper operation of the filtration system, it is required that the protected space is airtight sealed and slightly over-pressured by forcing ventilation through the filtration system. The overpressure prevents entrance of potentially contaminated air through a possible worn-out sealing of the protected space. Typically there are provided an air intake wall sleeve fitted to an exterior wall of the building, and an air exhaust wall sleeve fitted to a typically opposite interior wall of the safe room. The air intake wall sleeve is airflow coupled to the filtration system. And the air exhaust wall sleeve is provided with an overpressure relief valve and a visible air flow indicator. The air flow indicator confirms the existence of sufficient overpressure in the protected space.

[0006] Such filtration system is disclosed for instance in US patent 6328775 to the present applicant, describing a compact, portable system for protection against the penetration of contaminated air into a protected space. The system includes a gas filter and an electric airintake unit. An opposing air exhaust unit is provided with an overpressure valve. There is also a manual backup bellows for sucking air through the filter into the protected space.

[0007] Israeli patent 206744 to the present applicant describes a NBC filtration system for safe room applications visually integrated in residential buildings, comprising a filtration unit invisibly secured in a cabinet at least partially embedded in the concrete wall. The filtration unit draws air from a blast shielded exterior space into the safe room space through an externally invisible air inlet passage. The system further comprising an air exhaust integrated into a door frame by providing the door frame with an air outlet passage and an exhaust duct fitted to the air outlet passage, ending with an elbow protruding to the exterior of the concrete wall. The exhaust duct is provided with a gravitation over pressure relief valve.For general purpose use of the protection shelter or safe room during normal times, it is desired that the space is air conditioned. However, installation of an air conditioning system requires a wall opening to facilitate installation. Such a wall opening should enable insertion of a flexible air duct of the kind typically used in central air conditioning systems, or several refrigerant pipes, electric cables and condensed water drain pipes such as used if a split type air conditioning systems is installed. Such wall openings if incorrectly made violates defense regulations and deteriorates the air tightness of the protected space.

[0008] For that purpose it is required and widely accepted to install in the protected space an additional wall sleeve having a flange on the internal side of the wall and a removable coverplate fitted to the flange with bolts and nuts. In cases where a central air conditioning system is installed, a flexible air duct is directly attached to the external side of the wall sleeve and the cover-plate is removed. The cover-plate should be kept in the protected space and may be refitted in case of warfare hazard.

[0009] In cases where a split type air conditioning system is installed, it is known to use dedicated fittings that enable a seal-able passage of the refrigerant conduits, electric cables and condensed water drain pipe through the wall sleeve.

[0010] Such fitting is disclosed for instance in Israeli patent 218946 to Skurnik, describing a resilient block of material with through holes for conduit passage and end plates to press the resilient block of material and shrink the holes about the conduits.

[0011] Israeli patent 269361 by Ommer Mizug Mamad Ltd. discloses a sealing assembly of the resilient block type mentioned above, for installing an air conditioning and / or ventilation system to a standard flange of a wall sleeve in a security room.

[0012] Israeli patent 266463 by DIMS Technologies Ltd. discloses penetration modules for conveying ductwork into / through a wall. The system provides selective condensate drainage for an air conditioner through a wall of a room configured to be gas-tight while providing passage for ductwork of the air conditioner through the wall.

[0013] Israeli patent application 295105 by DIMS Technologies Ltd. which is a divisional of 266463 above, discloses a system for conveying ductwork into a wall. The system being further configured with a wall covering frame configured to be fitted to the housing so as to snugly slide within the housing, so that the frame inside face define an extension for the space.

[0014] Israeli patent 260942 to Eran Karpel discloses a transferring apparatus for transfer of pipelines and / or wires into a shelter, while keeping the shelter sealed and impermeable forgas. The solution includes individual pipes passing through the wall, each provided at one end with a resilient conical sealing gasket and a fastening plate pressing against the resilient gaskets which is tightened by through-wall passing screws.

[0015] Israeli patent 247372 to Edo Navon et al discloses a sealed metallic device for passing pipes and wires through a ventilation opening in a protected space. The solution includes metal cover with holes for connection to a standard flange of a wall sleeve and adapters (cable glands) for pipes / wires and for drainage of condensed water. An O-ring gasket and flare nut is provided for each of the adapters.

[0016] Israeli patent 265133 by Zohar Diuk Ltd. discloses an apparatus for isolation of a wall or a surface between internal and external environments. The solution is based on a dedicated wall sleeve equipped with flange and plate. The plate is provided with cable glands for pipes and electric cable. An additional opening is provided with a check valve operative to drain a liquid from the internal to the external environment while sealing the addition opening.

[0017] Israeli patent application 275832 by Zohar Diuk Ltd. discloses a system with two plates with holes and conical countersinks at least in one of the plates, for transferring pipes and cables in such a way that they remain sealed. An annular seal is threaded on the pipe between the two plates and the plates are pressed against each other.

[0018] Israeli patent application 278159 by Zohar Diuk Ltd. discloses a sealing arrangement for sealing around a straight pipe defining a center line. The solution includes a first round flat surface around the pipe that is perpendicular to the center line. A second round flat surface around the pipe that is diagonal to the center line and an ‘O’ ring seal around the pipe. The ‘O’ ring seal is pressed between the pipe, the first surface, and the second surface for sealing.

[0019] A drawback of the above described solutions is the need to install a dedicated wall passage element during construction of the building in additional to wall sleeves required by regulations for ventilation and an air filtration system in safe rooms.

[0020] Modern protected spaces require comprehensive utility services beyond ventilation and climate control. Communication infrastructure has become essential for emergency coordination, internet access, and telecommunications, while potable water access and user-controlled supplemental ventilation capability have become critical for extended occupancy scenarios. However, routing communication cables and water pipes through protective walls presents challenges due to strict bend radius requirements for data cables and the need tomaintain electromagnetic isolation between power and low-voltage communication wiring to prevent interference. Existing solutions typically employ multiple separate wall penetrations, each requiring its own sealing system, thereby increasing potential leakage paths and compromising CBRN protection and blast resistance.

[0021] Israeli patent application 317697 to the present applicant describes a dual purpose wall sleeve configured to be embedded in a concrete wall of a CBRN protected space. According to the invention, a single element embedded in the concrete wall during construction of the protected space is used for installation of both a CBRN filtration system and a split type air-conditioning system, making the entire process from the building construction to final systems installation less expansive, easier, simpler and faster.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0022] Accordingly it is a principal object of the present invention to simplify installation of an overpressure relief valve and a split type air-conditioning system as well as some auxiliary services in a safe room. This object is achieved by using a dual or multi purpose wall passage configured to be embedded in a concrete wall of a safe room. According to the invention, a single element embedded in the concrete wall during construction of the safe room is used for installation of an overpressure relief valve, optionally with a flow indicator, and a split type air-conditioning system, as well as some auxiliary services, making the entire process from the building construction to final systems installation less expansive, easier, simpler and faster.

[0023] According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a dual purpose wall passage, configured to be embedded in a concrete wall of a safe room. The dual purpose wall passage comprising:

[0024] a) a wall sleeve having at least one through-wall passing duct surrounded by a plurality of anchors.

[0025] b) a front plate attached to the wall sleeve by at least a portion of the plurality of anchors, the front plate comprising an overpressure relief valve; and

[0026] c) at least one sealable passage.

[0027] The sealable passage being configured for routing of conduits of a split type air conditioning system between an outer environment and the interior of the safe room, while maintaining blast protection and air tightness.

[0028] According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a multi purpose wall passage, configured to be embedded in a concrete wall of a safe room. The multi purpose wall passage comprising: a) a wall sleeve having at least one through-wall passing duct surrounded by a plurality of anchors; b) a front plate attached to the wall sleeve by at least a portion of the plurality of anchors, the front plate comprising an overpressure relief valve; and c) at least one sealable passage configured for routing of conduits between an outer environment and an interior of the safe room while maintaining blast protection and air tightness; wherein the conduits comprise at least one conduit selected from the group consisting of air-conditioning refrigerant pipes, communication cables, electrical power cables, drain pipes, water pipes and air ducts. According to an aspect, the at least one sealable passage comprises a discrete aperture configured for sealed passage of a respective conduit type. According to an aspect,the wall sleeve comprises an auxiliary panel area provided with threaded apertures configured to receive cable glands or plugs. The threaded apertures may comprise a first threaded aperture configured to receive a cable gland for electrical power cable and a second threaded aperture configured to receive a cable gland for communication cable. According to an aspect, separation between communication cables and electrical power cables is maintained by at least one of a minimum separation distance between cable routing paths, an internal partition within the auxiliary panel area, separate cable glands, or an EMI-shielding barrier. According to an aspect, socket modules are mountable to the auxiliary panel area, the socket modules selected from electrical power receptacles within protective enclosures having gasketed hinged covers, and communication interface sockets with interchangeable adapter plates.

[0029] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a dual purpose wall passage, configured to be embedded in a concrete wall of a safe room. The dual purpose wall passage comprising:

[0030] a) a wall sleeve having a through-wall passing first duct which ends with a flange facing the interior of the safe room and a sealable through-wall passing second duct which ends with the same flange, the sealable second duct being configured for routing of conduits of a split type air conditioning system between an outer environment and the interior of the safe room, in a sealed manner maintaining blast protection and air tightness; and

[0031] b) a front plate attached to the flange, the front plate comprising an overpressure relief valve which is aligned with the first duct and an airflow indicator visible to the interior of the safe room.

[0032] According to yet another aspect, there is provided a dual purpose wall passage, configured to be embedded in a concrete wall of a safe room. The dual purpose wall passage comprising:

[0033] a) a wall sleeve having a through-wall passing duct which ends with a flange facing the interior of the safe room; and

[0034] b) a front plate attached to the flange, the front plate carrying an overpressure relief valve, an airflow indicator visible to the interior of the safe room and sealable apertures.

[0035] The sealable apertures are configured to enable passage of conduits of a split type air conditioning system from an external environment at the outer side of the concrete wall, through said duct and into the safe room in a sealed manner maintaining blast protection and air tightness.According to an aspect, the at least one sealable passage comprises a supplemental ventilation duct distinct from the through-wall passing duct. The supplemental ventilation duct is provided with a closure member configured to selectively close and open the ventilation duct, the closure member being air-tight sealable when closed. According to an aspect, a ventilation fan may be fitted to the supplemental ventilation duct. According to an aspect, the closure member is formed as a disk secured by anchoring bolts and nuts. According to an aspect, the closure member is actuated between a closed position and an open position by an actuator configured to be operated from within the safe room. The actuator may comprise a mechanical or electromechanical device optionally including a rotary handle coupled through mechanical linkage, a lever, a pull-cable mechanism having a return bias, or an electrically actuated device having a manual override actuator accessible from within the safe room.

[0036] According to an aspect, the at least one sealable passage comprises a single consolidated opening dimensioned to accommodate multiple conduit types through a compression-based sealing assembly. The compression-based sealing assembly may comprise a resilient seal having multiple apertures corresponding to different conduit diameters, backing and tightening plates compressing the resilient seal, and removable sealed plugs for unused apertures. According to an aspect, the multi purpose wall passage is configured for field serviceability such that sealing elements associated with individual conduits are removable and replaceable independently without compromising blast protection or air tightness of adjacent conduits. According to an aspect, water pipes routed through the at least one sealable passage are associated with at least one of hot and cold water inlet.

[0037] According to an aspect, a method of installing multiple utility services in a protected space using the multi purpose wall passage is provided, comprising embedding the wall sleeve in a concrete wall during casting, attaching the front plate with the overpressure relief valve using the plurality of anchors, selecting conduits according to safe room requirements, routing the selected conduits through the at least one sealable passage, and compressing sealing elements around the routed conduits to maintain blast protection and air tightness.According to an aspect, a method is provided for implementing installation of a split type air conditioning system and an overpressure relief valve in a dual purpose wall passage configured to be embedded in a concrete wall of a safe room, the dual purpose wall passage comprising:

[0038] a) a wall sleeve comprising at least one through-wall passing duct surrounded by a plurality of anchors;

[0039] b) a front plate attached to the wall sleeve by the plurality of anchors, the front plate carrying at least an overpressure relief valve; and

[0040] c) at least one sealable passage configured for routing of conduits of a split type air conditioning system, between an outer environment and the interior of the safe room in a sealed manner maintaining blast protection and air tightness.

[0041] According to another aspect, installation of the dual purpose wall passage comprising the steps of:

[0042] a. providing a dual purpose wall passage configured to be embedded in a concrete wall of a safe room;

[0043] b. embedding the dual purpose wall passage in the concrete wall during casting of the safe room; and

[0044] c. installing a split type air conditioning system and at least an overpressure relief valve, using the dual purpose wall passage.

[0045] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0046] The invention and the way it may be carried out in practice, will be understood with reference to the following illustrative figures, by way of non-limiting example only, in which like reference numerals identify like elements, and in which:

[0047] Fig. 1 is a front view of an embodiment of the dual purpose wall passage of the present invention including a portion of an internal unit of an air conditioning system, as viewed from within the safe room.

[0048] Fig. 2 is a sectional view taken along line A-A of Fig. 1, not showing the air conditioning unit. Fig. 3 is a front isometric view of the embodiment of Fig. 1 with minimal components as needed for embedding in a concrete wall.Fig. 4 is a front isometric view as in Fig. 3 with additional parts of the dual purpose wall passage.

[0049] Fig 5 is a rear isometric view of the embodiment as shown in Fig. 4.

[0050] Fig. 6 is a front isometric view of the dual purpose wall passage with all the elements required for the dual purpose operation.

[0051] Fig. 7 is a front isometric view as in Fig. 6 including a schematically shown internal unit of an air conditioning system.

[0052] Fig. 8 is a front isometric view of an embodiment as in Fig. 6, having a different orientation of installation.

[0053] Fig. 9 is a front isometric view as in Fig. 8 including a schematically shown internal unit of an air conditioning system.

[0054] Fig. 10 is a front view of another embodiment of the dual purpose wall passage of the present invention including a portion of an internal unit of an air conditioning system, as viewed from within the safe room.

[0055] Fig. 11 is a sectional view taken along line B-B of Fig. 10, not showing the air conditioning unit.

[0056] Fig. 12 is a front isometric view of the embodiment of Fig. 10 with some elements removed. Fig. 13 is a front isometric view as in Fig. 12 demonstrating installation where an air conditioning system is not fitted.

[0057] Fig. 14 is a front isometric view of the dual purpose wall passage with all the elements required for the dual purpose operation.

[0058] Figs. 15a and 15b are isometric rear views of the front plate, demonstrating operation of the over pressure relief valve.

[0059] Fig 16 is a rear isometric view of the embodiment as shown in Fig. 14.

[0060] Fig. 17 is a front isometric view as in Fig. 14 including a schematically shown internal unit of an air conditioning system.

[0061] Fig. 18 is a front isometric view of a multi purpose wall passage showing the auxiliary panel area configured with cable glands for electrical power and communication cables.

[0062] Fig. 19 is a front isometric view as in Fig. 18 with the auxiliary panel area configured with electrical and communication socket assemblies.Fig. 20 is a rear isometric view of the multi purpose wall passage showing rear elbows for cable routing.

[0063] Fig. 21 is a front isometric view of the multi purpose wall passage showing water service outlet components in the auxiliary panel area.

[0064] Fig. 22 is a front isometric exploded view showing the supplemental ventilation duct with removable cover plate.

[0065] Fig. 23 is a rear isometric view showing the supplemental ventilation duct with ventilation fan and rear infrastructure.

[0066] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0067] Several terms relating to the present invention will be defined prior to describing the invention in detail. It should be noted that the following definitions are used throughout this application.

[0068] For the purposes of the present invention, directional terms such as “below”, “left”, “right”, “front”, “back”, “rear”, “horizontal”, “up”, “down”, etc. are merely used for convenience in describing the various implementations of the present invention. The terms are defined from the point of view of a person standing in the safe room and watching an installed dual purpose wall passage of the present invention. Accordingly “front side” is the side closer to the person and “rear side” or “back side” is the side farther from the person. The same relates to the terms “right”, “left”, “up” and “down” all in view of the person described.

[0069] For the purposes of the present invention, the term “conduit” refers to a pipe, tube or cable for carrying gas, fluid or electricity.

[0070] For the purposes of the present invention, the term “flange” refers to a rib or rim for strength, for guiding, or for attachment to another object. A duct may end with an annular flange for attachment to another flanged duct, a blind flange or any other object.

[0071] For the purposes of the present invention, the term “wall-sleeve” refers to a sleeve or duct that allows ventilation or routing of conduits through walls. The sleeve or duct may end with a flange. The term “standard ventilation wall sleeve” refers to a duct ending with a flange for ventilation in safe rooms, commercially available from some vendors.

[0072] For the purpose of the present invention the terms “substantially” or “approximately” refers to a value in the range between 80% to 120% of the stated value.For the purpose of the present invention the term CBRN, standing for “Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear”, is used at the broad interpretation, meaning at least one of: Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear. Accordingly CBRN does not mean that all of the capabilities are necessary for the application, for example a filter unit providing protection against Biological and Chemical attack, but none or only partial protection against Nuclear or Radiological attack, is yet considered a CBRN filter unit for the purpose of the present application.

[0073] For the purposes of the present invention, the term “safe room” refers also to a shelter, protected space or any air-tight sealed structure for protection purpose where a CBRN filtration system can be installed.

[0074] For the purposes of the present invention, the term 'electromagnetic interference' (EMI) refers to electromagnetic field coupling between power conductors and communication signal conductors causing signal distortion, attenuation, bit error rate degradation, or network performance compromise, prevented through physical separation and optional electromagnetic shielding.

[0075] It is an object of the present invention to simplify installation of an overpressure relief valve, referenced 60 or 65 in different embodiments, optionally with an airflow indicator referenced 70 or 75 respectively (being part of a CBRN filtration system), and a split type air-conditioning system, in a safe room. This object is achieved by using a dual purpose wall passage 10 configured to be embedded in a concrete wall of a safe room. According to the invention, a single unit embedded in the concrete wall during construction of the safe room is used to enable installation of both an overpressure relief valve 60, 65 optionally with an airflow indicator 70, 75 which relates to a CBRN filtration system, and a split type air-conditioning system. The dual purpose wall passage makes the entire process from the building construction to final systems installation less expansive, easier, simpler and faster.

[0076] With reference now to the figures in general, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the dual purpose wall passage generally referenced 10, may comprise: a) A wall sleeve generally referenced 15 including at least one through -wall passing duct 20, 30 surrounded by a plurality of anchors 42, 47. Optionally the at least one through-wall passing duct 20 may end with a flange 40 facing the interior of the safe room and the plurality of anchors 42, 47 may pass through the flange 40.b) A front plate 50, 55 attached to the wall sleeve by at least a portion of the plurality of anchors 42, 47. The front plate carrying an overpressure relief valve generally referenced 60, 65 and optionally an airflow indicator 70, 75 which is visible to the interior of the safe room. c) At least one sealable passage generally referenced 35 configured for routing of conduits generally referenced 80 of a split type air conditioning system between an outer environment and the interior of the safe room through the at least one through-wall passing duct 20, 30 while maintaining blast protection and air tightness.

[0077] The sealable passage 35 may accept several optional embodiments as will be further explained below.

[0078] The conduits 80 may include two or more refrigerant pipes 86 and at least one electric cable 88 connecting between an internal unit 98 and an external unit (not shown) of a split type air conditioning system. The conduits may further include at least one condensed water drain pipe 82 leading from the internal unit 98 of the split type air conditioning system to an external drain installation.

[0079] According to an embodiment (not shown), the plurality of anchors may be attached directly to the outer circumference of the at least one wall passing duct. Optionally the anchors may be attached with fins formed to distance the anchors from the wall passing duct to a certain amount.

[0080] According to an embodiment, the wall sleeve 15 may be anchored to the concrete wall by the plurality of anchors 42, 47 surrounding the at least one through-wall passing duct 20, 30. The plurality of anchors 42, 47 passing through the flange 40 and extending rearwards from the flange 40 into the concrete wall. The plurality of anchors 42, 47 may be hexagonal head bolts, each fitted with a pair of nuts, a first nut 43, 48 located at the rear side of the flange 40 and a second nut 44, 49 locking against said first nut 43, 48 from within the safe room. At least a portion of the second nuts 44 are locking over the front plate 50.

[0081] With reference now to figures 1 to 9, according to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a dual purpose wall passage generally referenced 10, configured to be embedded in a concrete wall of a safe room. The concrete wall is schematically shown in Fig. 2, where the dashed line 21 represent the internal face of the concrete wall and dashed line 31 represent the external face of the concrete wall.According to the embodiment, the dual purpose wall passage 10 comprising:

[0082] a) A wall sleeve generally referenced 15 including a through-wall passing first duct 20 ending with a flange 40 facing the interior of the safe room. A sealable passage 35 (Fig. 12) here embodied as a through-wall passing second duct 30, ending with the same flange 40. The second duct 30 being configured for passage of conduits 80 connecting between an outer environment and the interior of the safe room in a sealed manner maintaining blast protection and air tightness.

[0083] b) A front plate 50 attached to the flange, carrying an overpressure relief valve generally referenced 60 which is aligned with the first duct, and an airflow indicator 70 visible to the interior of the safe room.

[0084] The second duct 30 may be substantially parallel to the first duct 20. Optionally according to an embodiment, the second duct may be inclined or curved towards and merge into the first duct such that only the rear opening of the first duct can be seen at the rear side of the concrete wall.

[0085] The front plate 50 has perforations 62 which are covered by a spring loaded disc or hemisphere 64 (Fig. 2) fitted within the duct 20 at the rear side of the plate 50, forming an overpressure relief valve 60. The relief valve 60 is opened in case of overpressure in the safe room to allow venting of the excessive pressure. In front of the overpressure relief valve there is an indicator of airflow, typically in the form of a rotating vane 70 which rotates when air flows through the overpressure relief valve 60. The indicator or vane 70 is visible to the occupants of the safe room, and rotation thereof indicates correct operation of the CBRN filtration system as explained in the background section.

[0086] The flange 40 of wall sleeve 15 may accept any shape, common shapes are round flange and square flange. With reference to Figs. 1 to 9, there is provided a square flange 40 wherein the first duct 20 is located substantially at the center of the flange while the second duct 30 is located in proximity to one of the corners of the flange 40, as will be further explained below. Before installation of the specific elements of the dual purpose wall passage Both ducts 20, 30 are open to the interior of the safe room as demonstrated in Fig. 3.

[0087] More specifically, the second duct 30 enables passage of conduits 80 of a split type air conditioning system between an external environment at the outer side of the concrete wall and the interior of the safe room in a sealed manner maintaining blast protection and air tightness. The sealing method may accept any form, several of which will be described below.The above mentioned conduits 80 may include two or more refrigerant pipes 86 and at least one electric cable 88 connecting between the internal and external units of a split type air conditioning system. Optionally, may also pass through the second duct 30, at least one condensed water drain pipe 82 draining condensed water from the internal unit 88 of the split type air conditioning system to a drain installation external to the safe room.

[0088] Optionally, according to an embodiment, only the refrigerant pipes 86 and the at least one electric cable 88 are passing through the second duct 30, while an at least one drain passage 41 is made to the flange 40. Typically the drain passage 41 is located in proximity to a corner of the flange 40 other than that used for the second duct 30. The drain passage 41 is configured for connection of the at least one condensed water drain pipe 82 in a sealed manner to a drain installation 92 (Fig. 2) embedded into the wall thickness during construction. Optionally the drain installation may be routed externally along the outer face of the concrete wall. The drain passage 41 permits drain of condensed water from the internal unit 98 of a split type air conditioning system while maintaining blast protection and air tightness, as will be further explained below.

[0089] According to an embodiment, the dual purpose wall passage 10 is anchored to the concrete wall by a plurality of anchors 42 surrounding at least the first duct 20 extending rearwards from the flange 40 into the concrete wall. The plurality of anchors 42 may be hexagonal head bolts, passing through the flange 40, protruding forwards towards the interior of the safe room while the bolt head side extending rearwards into the casting of the concrete wall. Each of the bolts is fitted with a pair of nuts, a first nut 43 located at the rear side of the flange 40 and a second nut 44 locking against the first nut 43 from within the safe room and over the front plate 50 when assembled. The front plate 50 which after assembly is anchored to the concrete wall by the plurality of anchors 42, may serve as a blast and splinter protector compensating for the opening of the concrete wall at the cross-section of the first duct 20 which is passing through the concrete wall. It should be noted that the overpressure relief valve 60 also serves as a blast protection valve which abruptly closes in an event of an explosion that may occur at the outer side of the concrete wall. The front plate 50 is sometimes also recognized as a blast protection plate or a blast deflection plate.

[0090] According to an embodiment, further to the anchors 42 surrounding the first duct 20, there are optionally provided a plurality of anchors 47, for example three anchors as shown in the figures, which are surrounding the second duct 30, extending rearwards from the flange into the concrete wall. The plurality of anchors 47 surrounding the second duct 30 may behexagonal head bolts, passing through the flange 40, protruding forwards towards the interior of the safe room while the bolt head side extending rearwards into the casting of the concrete wall. Each of the bolts is fitted with a pair of nuts, a first nut 48 located at the rear side of said flange 40 and a second nut 49 locking against said first nut 48 from within the safe room.

[0091] With reference to Figs. 4, 5 and 6, according to an embodiment, the conduits generally referenced 80 or optionally only the refrigerant pipes 86 and the at least one electric cable 88 are threaded in series into apertures formed in a backing plate 84, into apertures of a resilient seal 83 and into apertures of a tightening plate 85. The resilient seal 83 is pressed between the backing plate 84 which rests on the front edge 32 of the second duct 30, and the tightening plate 85. The tightening plate 85 has peripheral holes 81 aligned with the anchors 47 such that the tightening plate 85 may be fitted to the anchors and tightened with the second nuts 49 over the backing plate 84 and resilient seal 83 thus shrinking the resilient seal over the conduits 80 to achieve air tight sealing. An additional resilient seal 83 may be provided without apertures and may be used if an air-conditioning system is not fitted.

[0092] According to an optional embodiment, a fixture (not shown) aligned with the second duct 30 covers the opening 32 of the second duct. The fixture is anchored with the anchors 47 surrounding the second duct 30 and is provided with threaded holes aligned with the second duct 30 into which are fitted a plurality of plugs, if an air-conditioning system is not fitted, or a plurality of cable glands, in case that an air conditioning system is fitted. The cable glands enabling passage of the conduits 80, optionally only the refrigerant pipes 86 and the at least one electric cable 88, through the second duct and the fixture, in a sealed manner maintaining blast protection and air tightness.

[0093] According to an embodiment, the at least one drain passage 41 is located below the second duct 30 and a curved pipe section 46 is extending rearwards and downwards from the drain passage 41. The drain passage 41 and optionally the curved pipe section 46 are configured for connection of a drain installation 92 (Fig. 2) routed in said concrete wall behind the flange 40. As demonstrated in the figures by way of example, the drain passage 41 is located in proximity to a lower corner of the flange 40. The drain passage 41 may be internally threaded to accept a plug 94 if an air-conditioning system is not fitted. When an air conditioning system is installed to the safe room, the drain passage 41 may accept a pipe nipple or nose-nipple (not shown) or a valve 96 enabling a connection of the drain pipe 82 of the internal air conditioning unit 98, in a sealed manner. The valve 96 when fitted may be closed for sealing the drain passage in case of CBRN contamination or in case that an air-conditioning system is not installed. Optionally, the valve 96 may be a three way valve to enable operation of the air-conditioning system even in an event of chemical attack. In such cases the condensed water is drained into the safe room and may be used as drinking water.

[0094] According to an embodiment, the dual purpose wall passage 10 may be made of plastic material typically by the injection molding process. Stiffening ribs (not shown) may be provided around the first and second ducts 20, 30 respectively to improve stability of the dual purpose wall passage 10. Optionally, the first nuts 43 of the first duct anchors and the first nuts 48 of the second duct anchors may be seated in an hexagonal seat (not shown) located at the rear side of the flange 40 to prevent rotation when tightening the second nuts 44, 49.

[0095] Normal installation height of the internal unit of a split type air-conditioning system is typically about 2 meters and at least 1.7 meters measured from the floor level. Accordingly the dual purpose wall passage 10 may be embedded in the concrete wall at a height of at least 1.7 meters from a floor level of the safe room.

[0096] The dual purpose wall passage may be embedded in the concrete wall of the safe room in any location. However, since the internal unit 98 of a split type air conditioning system has a certain width, typically between 60cm and 90cm, it may not fit if the dual purpose wall passage is located adjacent a comer of the walls of the safe room. Further, the desired height of the internal unit of the air conditioning system may vary in relation to the height of the dual purpose wall passage.

[0097] To enable positioning of the dual purpose wall passage at any location of the safe room, and allow certain variation in height of installation, four orientation options may be used. According to an optional embodiment, the dual purpose wall passage 10 may be symmetric about a slanted axis marked 12 in figs. 1 and 3, passing substantially through the centers of the first and second ducts 20 and 30 respectively. Further, the dual purpose wall passage may be embedded in the concrete wall in either a first orientation where the second duct 30 is located at the upper right side of the first duct 20, as demonstrated in Figs 1 to 7. A second orientation where the second duct is located at the lower right side of the first duct, as demonstrated in Figs. 8 and 9. A third orientation (not shown) where the second duct is located at the upper left side of the first duct. And a fourth orientation (not shown) where the second duct is located at the lower left side of the first duct. It will be understood that the third and fourth orientations are principally mirror views of the first and second orientations respectively.With reference to Figs. 8 and 9, the second duct and the drain passage are both located at the lower corners of the flange 40, thus enabling installation of the internal unit 98 of the split type air conditioning system at approximately the same height as the dual purpose wall passage 10.

[0098] Accordingly the first orientation is preferred when the air-conditioner internal unit 98 is located at the right side and higher than the dual purpose wall passage and the second orientation is preferred when the air-conditioner internal unit is located at the right side and at the same level as the dual purpose wall passage. The third and fourth orientations are preferred for left side installation, higher or at the same level respectively.

[0099] According to an embodiment, the flange 40 may be provided with a peripheral wall 45 extending towards the interior of the safe room such that the front plate 50 and nuts 49 after assembled are not protruding above the internal face 21 of the wall. A rim 93 (Fig. 11) may be provided to the peripheral wall 45 of the flange 40 for stiffening and ease of implementation. The rim may be provided with plurality of indentations (not shown) enabling easy attachment by screws or nails to a wood form assembled prior to casting of the concrete wall.

[0100] The dual purpose wall passage 10 may be embedded in a concrete wall having a thickness of 20cm as typically required for an internal wall of a safe room (a wall separating the protected space and one of the other rooms of the apartment). However some exceptions may occur where the thickness of the wall is larger than 20cm. According to an embodiment, the first duct 20 and the second duct 30 may be longer than required for installation in a wall of 20cm thickness and may be provided with one or more weakening grooves (not shown) surrounding the wall of the ducts at the opposite side of the flange 40. The one or more weakening grooves may be used for cutting off and removing a section or sections not required for the wall thickness of a specific installation.

[0101] According to an embodiment, the first duct 20 may be tubular in cross section and the second duct 30 may be square, rectangular or tubular in cross section. According to an embodiment, the front face of the flange 40 may be provided with a first circumferential groove surrounding the first duct and a second peripheral groove surrounding the second duct, both grooves being configured to accept a first seal and a second seal respectively (not shown). The seals are required in order to prevent any contaminated air from entering the safe room through the first duct or the second duct as will be further explained below. Optionally flat resilient gaskets may be used without the peripheral grooves.The embodiment will now be described in more detail by the installation steps taken from the construction of a safe room using the in wall embedded dual purpose wall passage 10 of the present embodiment and up to final assembly of the different components into the dual purpose wall passage.

[0102] In use, the dual purpose wall passage 10 may be delivered to customers as shown in Fig. 5, including the wall sleeve 15, the anchors 42 surrounding the first duct 20, anchors 47 surrounding the second duct 30 with nuts 43, 44 of the first duct anchors and nuts 48, 49 of the second duct anchors. As explained above, the anchors and nuts should be assembled before placement of the dual purpose wall sleeve in the wood form and casting the concrete wall. Drain installation 92 may be fitted at the back of the flange 40 to the curved pipe section 46, before concrete casting. A period of several months may pass from the time of casting of the concrete structure of the safe room to the time of finishing the construction and installing a CBRN filtration system with the overpressure relief valve components.

[0103] With reference to Figs. 4 to 7, when all structure and finishing steps of the building are completed, a front plate 50 including the overpressure relief valve 60 and a flow indicator 70 and optionally a split type air conditioning system may be fitted to the safe room using the dual purpose wall passage 10 as demonstrated in Figs. 1 to 9. Atypical front plate 50 made by the present applicant for standard ventilation wall sleeves may be used.

[0104] Installation of a split type air conditioning system is demonstrated in Figs. 6 to 9. The conduits 80 such as refrigerant pipes 86 and electric cable 88 are threaded through backing plate 84, resilient seal 83 and tightening plate 85 (Fig. 4) which are fitted to anchor bolts 47 but second nuts 49 are not tightened yet to permit easy threading of the conduits. When the conduits are in place the nuts 49 are tightened thus shrinking the resilient seal 83 over the conduit to establish an airtight seal routing.

[0105] The rest of the assembly is straight forward as known in the art of split type air conditioning systems. Finally, a plug 94 may be removed if fitted and a valve 96 is fitted to the drain passage 41. The condensed drain water pipe 82 is fitted to the valve 84 to allow passage of condensed water to the drain installation 92 that was prepared during casting of the concrete wall. The internal unit 88 of the split type air-conditioning system is shown cut in length in Fig. 7 to fit into the size of the drawing.

[0106] With reference to Figs. 1,7 and 9, there is shown the dual purpose wall passage with fully assembled internal unit 88 of an air conditioning system and over pressure relief valvegenerally referenced 60 with air flow indicator 70. A lid (not shown) may be provided to cover the area over the portion of the flange 40 including the conduits 20 for aesthetic appearance and protection of the conduits.

[0107] With reference to Figs. 10 to 17, according to an embodiment of the invention, there is provided a dual purpose wall passage generally referenced 10, configured to be embedded in a concrete wall of a safe room. The concrete wall is schematically shown in Fig. 11, where the dashed line 21 represent the internal face of the concrete wall and dashed line 31 represent the external face of the concrete wall. The dual purpose wall passage comprising:

[0108] a) A wall sleeve generally referenced 15 including a through-wall passing duct 20 which ends with a flange 40 facing the interior of the safe room.

[0109] b) A front plate 55 attached to the flange, the front plate carrying an overpressure relief valve 65, an airflow indicator 75 visible to the interior of the safe room and a sealable passage 35 (Fig. 12) here embodied as a plurality of sealable apertures 52.

[0110] The sealable apertures 52 are configured to enable passage of conduits generally referenced 80. The conduits are passing through the duct 20 and through the sealable apertures 52 in the front plate 55, connecting between an external environment at the outer side of the concrete wall and an internal unit 98 of a split type air conditioning system located in the safe room. The passage of the conduits permit installation of a split type air conditioner system in a sealed manner maintaining blast protection and air tightness. The sealing method may accept any form, several of which have been described above and will be described below.

[0111] The above mentioned conduits 80 may include two or more refrigerant pipes 86 and at least one electric cable 88 connecting between the internal 98 and external units of a split type air conditioning system and at least one condensed water drain pipe 82 draining condensed water from the internal unit 88 of the split type air conditioning system to a drain installation external to the safe room.

[0112] According to an embodiment, the overpressure relief valve generally referenced 65 comprises: an opening 66 made to the front plate 55 in alignment with the duct 20 enabling airflow there-through. The opening 66 is smaller in size than the cross section of the duct 20 such that a swivel flap 67 pivotally attached to the rear side of the front plate 55 (Figs. 15a, 15b) may cover the opening 66. The swivel flap 67 may be hinged along its top edge such that it tends to rest upon the opening 66 by gravity, thus closing the air passage if there is no overpressure in the safe room. Optionally the hinge of the swivel flap 67 may be providedwith a spring (not shown) that forces the flap to the closed position, in such case there is no importance to the location of the hinge. The swivel flap 67 is raised open when there is an overpressure in the safe room which is caused by normal operation of the CBRN filtration system as described in the background section. However, in an event of explosion at the outer side of the wall, the swivel flap 67 is abruptly pushed against the opening 66 and the overpressure relief valve closes thus serving also as a blast protection valve.

[0113] The swivel flap 67 may be provided with a pointer 75 extending through the opening 66 towards the interior of the safe room, thus visually indicating the angular position of the flap. A curved static dial 77 may be positioned proximate to the pointer to allow interpretation of the rate of airflow by the position of the pointer in relation to the static dial. At least one notch 79 may be marked on the the curved dial 77 indicating proper operation of the filtration system when the pointer 75 passes the notch 79 which means that the flap 67 is at least half way open. The pointer 75 indicates that there is no air flow when it points to the top of the dial 77 above the notch 79 as shown in Fig. 12 and indicates sufficient airflow (correspondent to sufficient overpressure in the safe room) when it points to the bottom of the dial 77 below the notch 79 as shown in Fig. 13.

[0114] According to an embodiment, the dual purpose wall passage is anchored to the concrete wall by a plurality of anchors 42 surrounding the duct 20 extending rearwards from the flange 40 into the concrete wall. The plurality of anchors 42 surrounding the duct 20 may be hexagonal head bolts, passing through the flange 40, protruding forwards towards the interior of the safe room while the bolt head side extending rearwards into the casting of the concrete wall. Each of the bolts is fitted with a pair of nuts, a first nut 43 located at the rear side of the flange 40 and a second nut 44 locking against the first nut 43 from within the safe room and over the front plate 55. The front plate 55 which is anchored to the concrete wall by the second nuts 44, may serve as a blast and splinter protector compensating for the opening of the concrete wall over the cross-section of the first duct 20 which is embedded in the concrete wall. The front plate 55 is sometimes also recognized as a blast protection plate or a blast deflection plate.

[0115] According to an embodiment, the wall sleeve 15 is made as one piece of plastic material by the injection molding process. The duct 20 may be tubular in cross section and stiffening ribs (not shown) may be provided around the duct 20 to improve stability of the wall sleeve. Optionally, the first nuts 43 of the duct anchors surrounding the duct may be seated in an hexagonal seat (not shown) located at the rear side of the flange 40. The frontface of the flange 40 may be provided with a circumferential groove (not shown) surrounding the duct 20, configured to accept a seal. The seal is required in order to prevent any contaminated air from entering the safe room through the duct as will be further explained below. Optionally a flat resilient gasket may be used without the peripheral groove.

[0116] According to an embodiment, the wall sleeve 15 may be fabricated from metallic materials, the first duct 20 and the second duct 30 may be permanently joined to the flange 40 through welding. The welded construction provides monolithic structural integrity, eliminates potential leak paths at duct-to-flange interfaces, and enhances blast resistance. Welding methods may include TIG, MIG, laser or resistance welding according to material specifications. Similarly, where rear elbows 46, 146, 148 (Figs 5, 20, 23) are provided for drain or auxiliary services routing as will be explained below, these components may be welded to the rear face of flange 40 prior to embedding the wall sleeve in the concrete wall, ensuring hermetic sealing and structural continuity throughout the installation.

[0117] According to an embodiment, the flange 40 may be provided with a peripheral wall 45 extending towards the interior of the safe room such that the front plate 55 and nuts 49 after assembled are not protruding above the internal face 21 of the wall. A rim 93 (Fig. 11) may be provided to the peripheral wall 45 of the flange 40 for stiffening and ease of implementation. The rim may be provided with plurality of indentations (not shown) enabling easy attachment by screws or nails to a wood form assembled prior to casting of the concrete wall.

[0118] The dual purpose wall passage 10 may be embedded in a concrete wall having a thickness of 20cm as typically required for an internal wall of a safe room (a wall separating the protected space and one of the other rooms of the compartment). However some exceptions may occur where the thickness of the wall is larger than 20cm. Optionally, the wall sleeve 15 may be longer than required for installation in a wall of 20cm thickness and may be provided with one or more weakening grooves (not shown) surrounding the wall of the duct 20 at the opposite side of the flange. The one or more weakening grooves are used for cutting off and removing a section or sections not required for the wall thickness of a specific installation.

[0119] The dual purpose wall passage 10 may be embedded in the concrete wall of the safe room in any location. However, since the internal unit 98 of a split type air conditioning system has a certain width, typically between 60cm and 90cm, it may not fit if the dual purpose wall passage is located adjacent a corner of the walls of the safe room. Accordingly,to enable positioning of the dual purpose wall passage at any location of the safe room, yet permit installation of an air conditioning system, the front plate 55 may have different configurations or may be positioned in one of several different orientations.

[0120] For example the front plate 55 may be fitted in a first configuration where the sealable apertures 52 are located at the left side of the overpressure relief valve 65, as shown in the figures. In a second configuration where the sealable apertures are located at the right side of the overpressure relief valve, a third configuration where the sealable apertures are located above the overpressure relief valve, and a fourth configuration where the sealable apertures are located below the overpressure relief valve. Accordingly the first configuration is preferred when the inner unit 88 of an air conditioning system is located on the right side of the dual purpose wall passage (Fig. 17) and the second configuration is preferred when the inner unit 88 of an air conditioning system is located on the left side of the dual purpose wall passage (not shown). The third and fourth configurations may be used if the Installation height of the inner unit 98 of the air conditioning system is above or below the dual purpose wall passage 10 respectively.

[0121] With reference to Figs. 12, 13 and 14, according to an embodiment, the sealable apertures 52 are threaded holes into which are fitted a plurality of plugs 54 if an air conditioning system is not installed, or cable glands 56 and optionally a pipe nipple or a valve 96 when an air conditioning system is installed. The cable glands enabling passage of the conduits generally referenced 80 through the duct 20 and the front plate 55 in a sealed manner maintaining blast protection and air tightness. One of the threaded holes 52, typically the lowest one, may serve as a drain passage. A valve 96 may be seated in the threaded hole 52 serving as drain passage enabling connection of the condensed water drain pipe 82 from the internal unit 88 of the split type air conditioning system.

[0122] Optionally as explained above with reference to Figs. 4, 5 and 6, the front plate may include an aperture and the sealing method may use a backing plate, a resilient seal and a tightening plate. The resilient seal is pressed between the backing plate which rests on the edge of the aperture, and the tightening plate. The tightening plate has peripheral holes aligned with bolts (not shown) extending from the front plate such that the tightening plate may be fitted to the bolts and tightened with nuts over the backing plate and resilient seal thus shrinking the resilient seal over the conduits to achieve air tight sealing. An additional resilient seal may be provided without apertures and may be used in case that an air-conditioning system is not fitted.It should be noted that to the same extent there may be provided resilient seal or seals which are pressed between the front plate and additional metal plate to shrink the seals over the conduits 80.

[0123] The valve 96 may be used for sealing the drain passage in case of a CBRN contamination or in case that an air conditioning system is not installed. The valve enables connection of the drain pipe 82 in front of the front plate 55 and connection of a drain installation 92 behind the front plate through the duct 20 and the outer side of the concrete wall as shown in Fig 11, or through a downward directing hole (not shown) made to the wall of the duct 20 and a drain installation made during construction through the thickness of the concrete wall. The valve 96 may be a three way valve to enable operation of the air-conditioning unit even in an event of chemical attack. In such cases the condensed water is drained into the safe room and may be used as drinking water. Optionally a plug may be fitted to the drain passage in case that an air-conditioning system is not installed.

[0124] It should be noted that according to the embodiment described above with reference to Figs. 10 to 17, a standard ventilation wall sleeve such as standard 4” ventilation wall sleeve may be used and the front plate 55 according to the embodiment may be fitted to the flange of the standard ventilation wall sleeve.

[0125] The embodiment demonstrated in Figs. 10 to 17, will now be described in more detail by the installation steps taken from the construction of a safe room using the in wall embedded dual purpose wall passage of the present embodiment and up to final assembly of the different components of the dual purpose wall passage.

[0126] In use, the dual purpose wall passage 10 may be delivered to customers as shown in Fig. 13 or optionally without the front plate 55. The minimal components for installation include the wall sleeve 15, the anchors 42 surrounding the duct 20, with nuts 43, 44 of the duct anchors. As explained above, the anchors and nuts should be assembled before placement of the wall sleeve 15 in the wood form and casting the concrete wall. A period of several months may pass from the time of casting of the concrete structure of the safe room to the time of finishing the construction and installing a CBRN filtration system with the overpressure relief valve components.

[0127] With reference to Figs. 12 to 14, when all structure and finishing steps of the building are completed, a front plate 55 (if not already assembled), including the overpressure reliefvalve generally referenced 65 and a flow indicator 75 and optionally a split type air conditioning system may be fitted to the wall sleeve 15 of the safe room.

[0128] As explained above the embodiment may also serve older installations where a standard 4” ventilation wall sleeve was originally fitted to the safe room. In such cases replacement of the standard front plate to the front plate 55 as described above, changes the standard wall sleeve into a dual purpose wall passage 10 of the present invention.

[0129] Installation of a split type air conditioning system is demonstrated in Figs. 14 and 17. The plugs 54 are replaced with cable glands 74 and valve 96. After introducing the conduits that may include refrigerant pipes 76 and electric cable 78 through the cable glands 74 and tightening the nuts of the cable glands, the rest of the assembly is straight forward as known in the art of split type air conditioning systems. The condensed drain water pipe 82 is fitted to the valve 96 to allow passage of condensed water to the drain installation 92 that is fitted behind the wall or was prepared during casting of the wall. The internal unit 88 of the split type air-conditioning system is shown cut in length in Fig. 17 to fit into the size of the drawing.

[0130] With reference to Figs. 14 and 17, there is shown the dual purpose wall passage with fully assembled internal unit 88 of an air conditioning system and over pressure relief valve generally referenced 65 with air flow indicator 75. A lid (not shown) may be provided to cover the area over the portion of the flange 40 including the conduits 20 for aesthetic appearance and protection of the conduits.

[0131] The present invention seeks protection regarding the various embodiments of a device as described above, as well as the method of implementing installation of a split type air conditioning system and an overpressure relief valve with air flow indicator, in a dual purpose wall passage 10, configured to be embedded in a concrete wall of a safe room.

[0132] The dual purpose wall passage comprising:

[0133] a) A wall sleeve generally referenced 15 including at least one through -wall passing duct 20, 30 surrounded by a plurality of anchors 42, 47. Optionally the at least one through-wall passing duct 20 may end with a flange 40 facing the interior of the safe room.

[0134] b) A front plate 50, 55 attached to the wall sleeve by the plurality of anchors 42. The front plate carrying an overpressure relief valve generally referenced 60, 65 and optionally an airflow indicator 70, 75 which is visible to the interior of the safe room.c) At least one sealable passage generally referenced 35 configured for routing of conduits generally referenced 80 of a split type air conditioning system between an outer environment and the interior of the safe room through the at least one through -wall passing duct 20, 30 in a sealed manner maintaining blast protection and air tightness.

[0135] Further, a method is applied for installing a split type air conditioning system and an overpressure relief valve, optionally with air flow indicator, in a safe room, using a single installation element, the method comprising the steps of:

[0136] a. providing a dual purpose wall passage 10 of the present invention, configured to be embedded in a concrete wall of a safe room;

[0137] b. embedding the dual purpose wall passage in the concrete wall during casting of the safe room;

[0138] c. installing a split type air conditioning system and an overpressure relief valve with an optional airflow indicator which is visible to the interior of the safe room, using said dual purpose wall passage.

[0139] With reference to Figures 18 through 23, according to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a multi purpose wall passage generally referenced 10 configured to accommodate a plurality of distinct utility services through a single consolidated wall penetration. The multi purpose wall passage 10 comprises the wall sleeve 15 embedded within the concrete wall during construction, with front plate 50 secured to flange 40 of the wall sleeve 15, by anchors 42 and 47, maintaining blast overpressure resistance and gas-tight sealing. In addition to the primary duct 20 for CBRN protection and the second duct 30 for the split type air conditioning system, the multi purpose wall passage 10 further comprises an auxiliary panel area generally referenced 150 provided at a lateral portion of flange 40, positioned for example at the left side when viewed from within the safe room. Clearly the position may vary according to varying requirements. The auxiliary panel area 150 may be formed integrally with flange 40 or secured thereto as a separate structural component and provides a dedicated mounting interface for utility service penetrations beyond the air conditioning conduits, including electrical power cables, communication cables, water service connections, and a supplemental ventilation duct, all while maintaining CBRN protection and blast resistance.

[0140] With reference to Figure 18, according to a first embodiment of auxiliary service configuration, the auxiliary panel area generally referenced 150 is configured with cablegland assemblies 156, 158 for direct cable routing through the multi purpose wall passage. The auxiliary panel area 150 comprises a plurality of threaded apertures configured to receive gas-tight CBRN-rated cable-glands or plugs. An upper cable gland assembly 156 is installed within an upper portion of the auxiliary panel area 150 and is configured for sealed passage of electrical power cables serving general -purpose circuits, such as lighting, receptacles, and equipment power, distinct from the HVAC power cable 88 which may pass through the second duct 30. A lower cable gland assembly 158 is installed within a lower portion of the auxiliary panel area 150 and is configured for sealed passage of communication cables including, for example, fiber optic cables, ethemet cables, coaxial cables, and telephone cables. Either cable gland 156, 158 may accommodate electrical power cables or communication cables according to installation requirements.

[0141] According to an embodiment, the upper cable gland 156 and lower cable gland 158 are vertically separated by a minimum distance of approximately 150 mm for electromagnetic interference prevention between line-voltage electrical power cables and low-voltage communication cables. Alternatively, electromagnetic interference prevention may be achieved by providing an EMI-shielding barrier positioned between the upper and lower cable glands or by an internal partition within the auxiliary panel area 150 separating the regions of the threaded apertures for electrical and communication cables.

[0142] According to a further embodiment, at least the cable gland 158 for communication cables includes a compression-limiting feature adapted to reduce micro-bending in fiber optic communication cables. The compression-limiting feature may comprise an internal ferrule or sleeve that contacts a tightening nut before full compression of the sealing gasket is achieved, thereby limiting the maximum compressive force transferred to delicate fiber optic cables while maintaining adequate sealing pressure through a resilient gasket.

[0143] According to another embodiment, consistent with the sealing method described with reference to Figures 4 to 6, the at least one sealable passage of the multi purpose wall passage 10 comprises a single consolidated opening dimensioned to accommodate multiple conduit types through a compression-based sealing assembly. The compression-based sealing assembly may comprise a resilient seal 83 having multiple apertures corresponding to different conduit diameters, a backing plate 84, and a tightening plate 85. The backing plate 84 may rest on an edge of the opening of the second duct 30 or on an additional opening provided in the front plate 50, and the tightening plate 85 is tightened against the backing plate 84 and resilient seal 83 by second nuts 49 on anchors 47, thereby shrinking the resilientseal around the conduits and providing an air-tight, blast-resistant seal. Removable sealed plugs may be fitted into unused apertures of the resilient seal 83 to preserve gas-tightness when fewer conduits are installed than the maximum capacity of the assembly.

[0144] According to an embodiment, the multi purpose wall passage 10 is configured for field serviceability such that sealing elements associated with individual conduits are removable and replaceable independently without compromising blast protection or air-tightness of adjacent conduits.

[0145] According to an embodiment, the resilient sealing elements such as resilient seal 83 and gasket elements associated with auxiliary panel area 150 are formed of elastomeric materials selected from EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer), FKM fluoroelastomer, FFKM perfluoroelastomer, or other elastomeric compounds exhibiting resistance to chemical warfare agents, thermal degradation, and permeation, compatible with CBRN sealing requirements

[0146] With reference to Figure 19, the auxiliary panel area 150 is shown in an alternative configuration featuring pre-wired outlet assemblies mounted to a mounting panel 152 positioned over the auxiliary panel area 150 and covering the cable-glands 156, 158 and the cables. In this configuration, electrical power is provided by an electrical socket generally referenced 172 mounted to mounting panel 152 or optionally directly to the auxiliary panel area 150. The electrical socket 172 comprises a receptacle housed inside a protective enclosure with a hinged protective cover 174. The cover 174 is provided with a peripheral gasket such that, when closed, it compresses against the enclosure to provide protection against dust and moisture. A communication interface socket assembly generally referenced 176 is mounted to a lower portion of mounting panel 152 or optionally directly to the auxiliary panel area 150 and provides a modular communication interface. The communication socket 176 may employ interchangeable adapter plates suitable for various communication standards such as ethernet connectors, fiber optic connectors, coaxial cable connectors, or multi -pin connectors.

[0147] With reference to Figure 20, a rear isometric view of the multi purpose wall passage 10 configured for electrical and communication services is shown. The primary duct 20 is visible at substantially a central position and houses the overpressure relief valve that cooperates with the CBRN filtration system installed on an opposite interior wall. The second duct 30 is visible at an upper position and provides a dedicated passage for HVAC conduits comprising refrigerant pipes 86 and electric cable 88 routed as described in earlierembodiments. Rear elbows generally referenced 146 and 148 are disposed at lateral positions on the rear face of flange 40. The rear elbows 146, 148 comprise 90-degree curved conduits providing through-wall routing paths that terminate at the auxiliary panel area 150 of flange 40. For electrical and communication configurations, elbows 146, 148 route electrical power cables and communication cables to the respective threaded apertures of the auxiliary panel area 150. The internal surfaces of elbows 146, 148 are smooth and free of sharp edges to prevent cable damage during installation. The curved drain section 46 extends from a lower portion of the multi purpose wall passage and maintains the function of routing HVAC condensate to a drain installation separately from the electrical, communication, and water services.

[0148] With reference to Figures 21 to 23, according to an alternative service configuration, the rear elbows 146, 148 are configured for water service infrastructure instead of electrical and communication cables. In this water service configuration, elbows 146, 148 comprise pipe fittings constructed of materials suitable for potable water, such as brass, stainless steel, or reinforced polymer, and are provided with standard pipe threads compatible with building plumbing systems. The elbows 146, 148 connect to water service outlet components mounted on the auxiliary panel area 150. Upper and lower water service components demonstrated by a way of example with nipples 166 and 168 respectively comprise outlet bodies defining internal flow paths between rear connections to the building water supply network and front connections accessible from within the safe room. The front connections of outlet bodies 166, 168 may be configured as threaded or quick-connect couplings adapted for connection to internal plumbing feeding sanitary fixtures such as a washing basin or shower mixer.

[0149] According to various embodiments, the water service outlet configuration may be arranged as a single outlet body providing cold water only, pre-mixed tempered water, or multiple outlet bodies providing independent hot and cold water supplies. According to an embodiment, at least one water service outlet component may be configured for connection to a fire suppression sprinkler system, enabling routing of pressurized water supply from building fire protection infrastructure through the multi-purpose wall passage to sprinkler heads positioned within the safe room, while maintaining blast protection and CBRN sealing integrity through appropriate sealing elements. The outlet bodies 166, 168 may incorporate shut-off or isolation elements enabling an occupant to stop water flow into the safe room for maintenance or water conservation. Sealing interfaces are provided at each penetration pointso that the water service outlets maintain CBRN protection, and materials in contact with water are compatible with potable water requirements.

[0150] According to an embodiment not shown in the figures, where both el ectrical / communi cation infrastructure and water service are simultaneously required, the wall sleeve 15 may incorporate an expanded plurality of rear elbows 146, 148 to accommodate both service categories. In such combined-service implementations, four or more rear elbows may be provided in vertically separated zones, wherein upper elbows are designated for water service piping and lower elbows are designated for electrical power and communication cable routing. The auxiliary panel area 150 in such combined-service configurations incorporates corresponding outlet components 166, 168 and cable glands 156, 158 positioned to align with the respective rear elbows. In such configurations, the auxiliary panel area 150 may be enlarged or divided into two or more auxiliary panel areas. Minimum separation distance and, optionally, EMI shielding measures are maintained between the electrical and communication conduits. Each service penetration is provided with independent sealing so that the combined configuration maintains the CBRN protection and blast resistance of the multi purpose wall passage 10.

[0151] According to a fire-safety enhanced configuration, the wall sleeve 15 may incorporate water service outlet components such as nipples 166, 168 dedicated to fire suppression sprinkler system supply, optionally combined with electrical power cable glands 156 for powering smoke detection and alarm systems integrated within the safe room, providing comprehensive life-safety infrastructure through the single multi-purpose wall passage 10 while maintaining blast protection and CBRN sealing. With reference to Figure 22, according to an embodiment, the multi purpose wall passage 10 may optionally incorporate a supplemental ventilation duct generally referenced 130 providing user-controlled air exchange independent of both the automatic overpressure relief valve 60 in the primary duct 20 and the CBRN filtration system. The supplemental ventilation duct 130 is positioned within an upper portion of auxiliary panel area 150 and comprises an additional through-wall passing duct positioned substantially in parallel to the main duct 20. The supplemental ventilation duct 130 is used during non-CBRN conditions to remove odours from sanitary installations, exhaust warm or humid air during prolonged occupancy, or refresh the air volume within the safe room. During CBRN operational conditions the supplemental ventilation duct 130 remains fully closed and sealed.The supplemental ventilation duct 130 is sealed at the front by a closure assembly. In one embodiment, a removable cover plate 136 seals the ventilation duct opening through compression of a peripheral gasket 134 against a sealing surface surrounding the opening of supplemental ventilation duct 130. Threaded nuts 144 engage two or more anchoring bolts 142 surrounding the duct opening to clamp the cover plate 136 and its gasket 134 against the sealing surface, providing gas-tight CBRN sealing. According to alternative embodiments, the closure assembly of the supplemental ventilation duct 130 may employ a hinged cover, pivoting flap, sliding shutter, or removable gate mounted to the auxiliary panel area 150 or to a rim surrounding the ventilation duct opening. Each such closure member carries a peripheral gasket or equivalent sealing interface configured to provide gas-tight sealing when in the closed position.

[0152] According to an embodiment (not shown), the closure member of the supplemental ventilation duct 130 is actuated between a closed position and an open position by an actuator configured to be operated from within the safe room. The actuator may comprise a mechanical or electromechanical device including, for example, a rotary handle coupled through a mechanical linkage to the closure member, a lever mechanism, a pull-cable mechanism with a return bias, or an electrically actuated device. In embodiments with an electrically actuated device, a manual override actuator is accessible from within the safe room to enable operation in the absence of electrical power. According to an embodiment, the closure member 136 may be formed as a generally planar disk which is secured by anchoring bolts 142 and nuts 144 to close the duct opening.

[0153] With reference to Fig. 23, according to an optional embodiment, a ventilation fan 132 is fitted within the supplemental ventilation duct 130 to provide forced air exchange. The ventilation fan 132 may be an axial flow fan as shown in Figure 23, a centrifugal blower, or any suitable air-moving device mounted within the duct passage. The ventilation fan 132 operates only when the closure member is open. When the closure member is secured in the closed position to maintain CBRN protection, the fan remains non-operational and does not compromise gas-tight sealing. The supplemental ventilation duct 130 and ventilation fan 132 therefore supplement, rather than replace, the automatic overpressure relief valve in the primary duct 20.

[0154] Yet with reference to Figure 23, a rear isometric view demonstrates the complete rear infrastructure of the multi purpose wall passage 10. The primary duct 20 is shown with an internal overpressure relief valve mechanism 60. The second duct 30 extends rearward at anupper left position by a way of example, providing a dedicated passage for HVAC conduits as described above. The curved drain section 46 extends downward or to any desired direction from a lower portion of the assembly routing air conditioning condensate to building drainage systems. The supplemental ventilation duct 130 is visible at an upper right position by a way of example, and its rear opening may incorporate protective screening or blast-resistant louvers positioned behind the optional ventilation fan 132 to prevent ingress of foreign objects and debris while permitting airflow when the closure member is opened. Anchoring bolts 42 surrounding the primary duct 20 and additional anchoring bolts 142 surrounding the supplemental ventilation duct 130 provide distributed structural anchorage of the wall sleeve 15 within the concrete wall. A plurality of rear elbows 146, 148 at lateral positions provide routing for electrical power cables, communication cables, or water service piping to the building infrastructure systems according to the selected configuration.

[0155] The multi purpose wall passage 10 is installed during the construction phase in a manner similar to the dual purpose wall passage described in earlier embodiments. During fabrication planning, the installer determines whether the auxiliary panel area 150 will serve electrical and communication functions, water service functions, supplemental ventilation, or any combination thereof, according to the specific safe room design requirements. The selected rear elbows 146, 148 and, optionally, the rear portion of the supplemental ventilation duct 130 are permanently attached to the rear face of flange 40 and are fitted with flexible conduits or pipes leading to building infrastructure systems before the wall sleeve assembly 15 is positioned within the formwork and the concrete wall is cast. A drain installation is fitted to the curved drain section 46, and all rear infrastructure components are secured to the formwork to prevent movement during the concrete pour and curing operations. Following curing of the concrete and removal of the formwork, the front plate 50 is installed using the anchors 42 and nuts 44. Thereafter, the auxiliary panel area 150 is configured from the interior side of the safe room according to the selected service configuration by installing cable glands 156, 158 and optionally pre-wired sockets 172, 176 for electrical and communication applications, water service outlet bodies 166, 168 for water service applications, and the closure assembly and optional ventilation fan 132 for the supplemental ventilation duct 130 if present. Conduits selected from the group of air-conditioning refrigerant pipes, communication cables, electrical power cables, drain pipes, water pipes and air ducts are routed through the corresponding sealable passages of the multi purpose wall passage 10, and the respective cable-glands, compression-based sealing assemblies and gasketed closuremembers are tightened to compress resilient sealing elements around the conduits, thereby maintaining blast protection and air-tightness.

[0156] It will be understood that the embodiments of a dual purpose wall passage described above with reference to Figs. 1 to 17, may serve also as a multi purpose wall passage by addition of the required openings and sealing elements as demonstrated with reference to Figs.

[0157] 18 to 23.

[0158] It will be appreciated that the specific embodiments of the present invention described above and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are set forth merely for purposes of example. Other variations, modifications, and applications of the present invention will readily occur to those skilled in the art. It is therefore clarified that all such variations are considered within the scope and spirit of the invention. Accordingly, the protection sought herein is as set forth in the claims below.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A dual purpose wall passage, configured to be embedded in a concrete wall of a safe room, said dual purpose wall passage comprising:a) a wall sleeve having at least one through-wall passing duct surrounded by a plurality of anchors;b) a front plate attached to the wall sleeve by at least a portion of said plurality of anchors, the front plate comprising an overpressure relief valve; andc) at least one sealable passage being configured for routing of conduits of a split type air conditioning system between an outer environment and the interior of the safe room while maintaining blast protection and air tightness.

2. The dual purpose wall passage of claim 1, wherein said front plate comprises an airflow indicator visible to the interior of the safe room and wherein said conduits comprise refrigerant pipes, at least one electric cable and at least one drain pipe.

3. The dual purpose wall passage of claim 1, wherein said at least one through -wall passing duct ends with a flange, said plurality of anchors surrounding the at least one through-wall passing duct are passing through the flange and extending rearwards from the flange into the concrete wall.

4. The dual purpose wall passage of claim 3, wherein said plurality of anchors surrounding the at least one through-wall passing duct are hexagonal head bolts, each fitted with a pair of nuts, a first nut located at the rear side of said flange and a second nut locking against said first nut from within the safe room, at least a portion of said second nuts are locking over said front plate.

5. A dual purpose wall passage, configured to be embedded in a concrete wall of a safe room, said dual purpose wall passage comprising:a) a wall sleeve having a through-wall passing first duct which ends with a flange facing the interior of the safe room and a sealable through-wall passing second duct which ends with said flange, said second duct being configured for passage of conduits between an outer environment and the interior of the safe room in a sealed manner maintaining blast protection b) a front plate attached to the flange, the front plate comprising an overpressure relief valve which is aligned with said first duct and an airflow indicator visible to the interior of the safe room.

6. The dual purpose wall passage of claim 5, wherein said conduits comprise two or more refrigerant pipes, at least one electric cable and at least one condensed water drain pipe of a split type air conditioning system.

7. The dual purpose wall passage of claim 5, wherein said conduits comprise two or more refrigerant pipes and at least one electric cable and wherein said dual purpose wall passage comprising at least one drain passage made to said flange, configured for connection of an at least one drain pipe to a drain installation in a sealed manner maintaining blast protection and air tightness.

8. The dual purpose wall passage of claim 7, wherein said flange is square in shape said first duct is located proximal to the center of the flange, said second duct is located in proximity to one of the comers of the flange and said drain passage is located in proximity to a corner of the flange other than that used for the second duct.

9. The dual purpose wall passage of claim 5, wherein said wall sleeve is anchored to said concrete wall by a plurality of anchors surrounding at least said first duct extending rearwards from said flange into the concrete wall.

10. The dual purpose wall passage of claim 9, wherein said plurality of anchors surrounding at least said first duct are hexagonal head bolts, each fitted with a pair of nuts, a first nut located at the rear side of said flange and a second nut locking against said first nut from within the safe room and over said front plate.

11. The dual purpose wall passage of claim 9, comprising a plurality of anchors surrounding said second duct extending rearwards from said flange into the concrete wall.

12. The dual purpose wall passage of claim 11, wherein said plurality of anchors surrounding said second duct are hexagonal head bolts, each fitted with a pair of nuts, a first nut located at the rear side of said flange and a second nut locking against said first nut from within the safe room.

13. The dual purpose wall passage of claim 12, comprising a fixture which covers an opening of said second duct, said fixture is anchored with said anchors surrounding said second duct and is provided with threaded holes aligned with said second duct into which are fitted a plurality of plugs or cable glands, the cable glands enabling passage of said conduits through said second duct and said fixture in a sealed manner maintaining blast protection and air tightness.

14. The dual purpose wall passage of claim 12, wherein said refrigerant pipes and said at least one cable are threaded into apertures formed in a resilient seal which is pressed between a backing plate and a tightening plate.

15. The dual purpose wall passage of claim 14, wherein said backing plate rests on an the edge of opening of said second duct and said tightening plate is tightened and secured to said flange by said bolts and second nuts surrounding said second duct.

16. The dual purpose wall passage of claim 7, comprising a curved pipe section extending rearwards and downwards from said drain passage, said curved pipe section is configured for connection of a drain installation routed in said concrete wall behind said flange.

17. The dual purpose wall passage of claim 16, wherein said drain passage is internally threaded to accept a valve enabling a sealable connection of said drain pipe of an internal unit of an air conditioning system fitted in the safe room.

18. The dual purpose wall passage of claim 5, wherein said wall sleeve is embedded in said concrete wall at a height of at least 1.7m from a floor level of the safe room.

19. The dual purpose wall passage of claim 8, configured such that the wall sleeve may be embedded in the concrete wall in an orientation selected from the group consisting of: a first orientation where the second duct is located at the upper right side of the first duct; a second orientation where the second duct is located at the lower right side of the first duct; a third orientation where the second duct is located at the upper left side of the first duct; and a fourth orientation where the second duct is located at the lower left side of the first duct.

20. The dual purpose wall passage of claim 5, made of plastic material.

21. The dual purpose wall passage of claim 20, wherein the first duct and the second duct are provided with one or more weakening grooves surrounding the wall of the ducts, said one or more weakening grooves are used for cutting off and removing a section or sections not required for a wall thickness of a specific installation.

22. The dual purpose wall passage of claim 5, wherein said first duct and said second duct are tubular in cross section.

23. The dual purpose wall passage of claim 5, wherein said second duct is inclined or curved towards and merge into said first duct such that only a rear opening of the first duct can be seen at the rear side of the concrete wall.

24. A dual purpose wall passage, configured to be embedded in a concrete wall of a safe room, said dual purpose wall passage comprising:a) a wall sleeve having a through-wall passing duct which ends with a flange facing the interior of safe room;b) a front plate attached to the flange, the front plate carrying an overpressure relief valve, an airflow indicator visible to the interior of the safe room and sealable apertures;said sealable apertures are configured to enable passage of conduits from an external environment at the outer side of the concrete wall, through said duct and into the safe room in a sealed manner maintaining blast protection and air tightness.

25. The dual purpose wall passage of claim 24, wherein said conduits comprise two or more refrigerant pipes, at least one electric cable and at least one water drain pipe of a split type air conditioning system.

26. The dual purpose wall passage of claim 24, wherein said overpressure relief valve comprises: an opening made to said front plate aligned with said duct; and a swivel flap attached to the rear side of said front plate; said swivel flap covers and closes said opening while there in no overpressure in the safe room.

27. The dual purpose wall passage of claim 26, wherein said swivel flap is provided with a pointer extending towards the interior of the safe room through said opening, thus visually indicating the angular position of said flap.

28. The dual purpose wall passage of claim 24, wherein said wall sleeve is anchored to said concrete wall by a plurality of anchors surrounding said duct passing through said flange and extending rearwards from the flange.

29. The dual purpose wall passage of claim 28, wherein said plurality of anchors are hexagonal head bolts, each fitted with a pair of nuts, a first nut located at the rear side of said flange and a second nut locking against said first nut over said front plate.

30. The dual purpose wall passage of claim 24, wherein said front plate is selected from the group consisting of: a front plate of a first configuration where the sealable apertures are located at the left side of said overpressure relief valve; a second configuration where the sealable apertures are located at the right side of said overpressure relief valve; a third configuration where the sealable apertures are located above said overpressure relief valve;and, a fourth configuration where the sealable apertures are located below said overpressure relief valve.

31. The dual purpose wall passage of claim 24, wherein said sealable apertures are threaded holes into which are fitted a plurality of plugs or cable glands, the cable glands enabling passage of said conduits through said duct and said front plate in a sealed manner maintaining blast protection and air tightness.

32. The dual purpose wall passage of claim 31, wherein one of said threaded holes is serving as a drain passage, and is provided with a valve for sealing the drain passage in case of a CBRN contamination, said valve enabling connection of said drain pipe in front of said front plate and connection of a drain installation at the outer side of the concrete wall.

33. The dual purpose wall passage of claim 24, wherein said duct is tubular in cross section.

34. The dual purpose wall passage of claim 24, wherein said wall sleeve is made as one piece of plastic material.

35. The dual purpose wall passage of claim 34, wherein said wall sleeve is provided with one or more weakening grooves surrounding the wall of said duct, said one or more weakening grooves are used for cutting off and removing a section or sections not required for a wall thickness of a specific installation.

36. A method of implementing installation of a split type air conditioning system and an overpressure relief valve in a dual purpose wall passage configured to be embedded in a concrete wall of a safe room, said dual purpose wall passage comprising:a) a wall sleeve comprising at least one through-wall passing duct surrounded by a plurality of anchors;b) a front plate attached to said wall sleeve by said plurality of anchors, the front plate comprising an overpressure relief valve; andc) at least one sealable passage configured for routing of conduits between an outer environment and the interior of the safe room in a sealed manner maintaining blast protection and air tightness.

37. The method of claim 36 wherein installation of said dual purpose wall passage comprising the steps of:a. providing a dual purpose wall passage configured to be embedded in a concrete wall of a safe room;b. embedding said dual purpose wall passage in the concrete wall during casting of the safe room;c. installing a split type air conditioning system and at least an overpressure relief valve, using said dual purpose wall passage.

38. A multi purpose wall passage, configured to be embedded in a concrete wall of a safe room, said multi purpose wall passage comprising:a) a wall sleeve having at least one through-wall passing duct surrounded by a plurality of anchors;b) a front plate attached to the wall sleeve by at least a portion of said plurality of anchors, the front plate comprising an overpressure relief valve; andc) at least one sealable passage configured for routing of conduits between an outer environment and an interior of the safe room while maintaining blast protection and air-tightness; wherein the conduits comprise at least one conduit selected from the group consisting of air-conditioning refrigerant pipes, communication cables, electrical power cables, drain pipes, water pipes and air ducts.

39. The multi purpose wall passage of claim 38, wherein said at least one sealable passage comprises a supplemental ventilation duct distinct from said through-wall passing duct, the supplemental ventilation duct is provided with a closure member configured to selectively close and open the supplemental ventilation duct, the closure member being airtight sealable when closed.

40. The multi purpose wall passage of claim 39, comprising a ventilation fan fitted to the supplemental ventilation duct41. The multi purpose wall passage of claim 39, wherein the closure member is formed as a disk or plate which is secured by anchoring bolts and nuts.

42. The multi purpose wall passage of claim 39, wherein the closure member is actuated between a closed position and an open position by an actuator configured to be operated from within the safe room.

43. The multi purpose wall passage of claim 42, wherein the actuator comprises a mechanical or electromechanical device configured to move the closure member between the closed and open positions, the mechanical or electromechanical device optionally including at least one of: a rotary handle coupled through a mechanical linkage to the closure assembly; a lever; a pull-cable mechanism having a return bias; or an electrically actuated device configured to open the closure assembly and having a manual override actuator accessible from within the safe room.

44. The multi purpose wall passage of claim 38, wherein the at least one sealable passage is configured as a discrete aperture, each discrete aperture being configured for sealed passage of a respective conduit type selected from the group consisting of air-conditioning refrigerant pipes, communication cables, electrical power cables, drain pipes, and water pipes.

45. The multi purpose wall passage of claim 38, wherein the multi purpose wall passage comprises an auxiliary panel area provided with threaded apertures configured to receive cable-glands or plugs.

46. The multi purpose wall passage of claim 45, wherein the threaded apertures comprise at least:a first threaded aperture configured to receive a cable-gland for electrical power cable; and a second threaded aperture configured to receive a cable-gland for communication cable.

47. The multi purpose wall passage of claim 45, wherein separation between the communication cables and the electrical power cables is maintained by at least one of: (a) maintaining a minimum separation distance between cable routing paths of the electrical power cables and the communication cables; (b) an internal partition within the auxiliary panel area separating the first and second threaded apertures; (c) separate cable-glands located in the first and second threaded apertures; or (d) an EMI-shielding barrier positioned between the first and second threaded apertures.

48. The multi purpose wall passage of claim 46, wherein at least the cable-gland for communication cables includes a compression-limiting feature adapted to reduce microbending in fiber-optic communication cables.

49. The multi purpose wall passage of claim 45, comprising socket modules mountable to the auxiliary panel area, the socket modules selected from:electrical power receptacles within protective enclosures having hinged covers; and communication interface sockets with interchangeable adapter plates.

50. The multi purpose wall passage of claim 38, wherein the at least one sealable passage comprises a single consolidated opening configured to accommodate multiple conduit types through a compression-based sealing assembly.

51. The multi purpose wall passage of claim 50, wherein the compression-based sealing assembly comprises: a resilient seal having multiple apertures corresponding to different conduit diameters; backing and tightening plates compressing the resilient seal; and removable sealed plugs for unused apertures.

52. The multi purpose wall passage of claim 38, configured for field serviceability such that sealing elements associated with individual conduits are removable and replaceable independently without compromising blast protection or air-tightness of adjacent conduits.

53. The multi purpose wall passage of claim 38, wherein each sealable passage employs resilient sealing elements selected from elastomers suitable for CBRN sealing.

54. The multi purpose wall passage of claim 38, wherein water supply pipes routed through the at least one sealable passage provide at least one of hot and cold water service to the interior of the safe room through outlet components mounted to the auxiliary panel area.

55. A method of installing multiple utility services in a protected space using the multi purpose wall passage of claim 38, comprising: embedding the wall sleeve in a concrete wall during casting of the concrete; attaching the front plate with the overpressure relief valve to the wall sleeve using the plurality of anchors; selecting conduits from the group recited in claim 38 according to safe room requirements; routing the selected conduits through the at least one sealable passage; and tightening sealing elements to compress resilient gaskets around the routed conduits thereby maintaining blast protection and air-tightness.

56. The dual purpose wall passage of any one of claims 1 to 35, comprising additional openings and sealing elements such that it can serve as a multi purpose wall passage.

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