Articulating-Axle Fire Suppression Trailer for EV Battery Fires
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electric vehicle battery fires, particularly those involving lithium-ion technology, pose challenges due to the hazardous nature of the batteries and the difficulty in extinguishing fires caused by oxygen by-products during charging, necessitating effective fire suppression solutions.
Innovation Solution
A fire suppression trailer with an articulating axle and non-flammable panels that can be positioned over a burning vehicle to contain the fire, using nitrogen extinguishers and a design allowing for safe application and containment of lithium fires, preventing spread to adjacent areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional fixed axle trailer is used, then the structure is simple and stable, but the trailer cannot be easily positioned over a burning vehicle for effective fire containment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing the fixed axle with an articulating axle that can rotate and adjust its angle. This allows the trailer to adapt its configuration dynamically - transitioning from a flatbed transport position to a contained enclosure position over burning vehicles, thereby resolving the contradiction between operational ease and structural complexity
2Reliability
If the trailer encloses the burning vehicle, then fire containment is effective, but the trailer must be completely lowered to the ground which complicates the positioning process
Solution Approach 1:
The articulating axle enables the trailer to dynamically adjust between different operational states: partially elevated during transport and fully lowered for fire containment. This dynamic capability allows the system to achieve reliable fire containment while maintaining operational flexibility, as the trailer can be positioned over the vehicle and then lowered into place
3Ease of operation
If the trailer is designed for easy transport on flatbeds, then mobility is improved, but the ability to fully lower and stabilize over uneven terrain is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The articulating axle provides dynamic adaptability that resolves the contradiction between transport mobility and stability. During transport, the axle remains in a neutral position suitable for flatbed loading. During fire suppression operations, the axle can articulate to accommodate uneven terrain and allow the trailer to fully lower and stabilize, ensuring both mobility and reliability
Data Source
AI summary
A fire suppression trailer for use with electric vehicles includes a floorless enclosure having an articulating axle for movement over a burning vehicle which can be lowered to the ground. This enables a vehicle fire to be easily contained therein preventing further damage to adjacent vehicle or buildings. The trailer further includes a longitudinal door allowing viewing and nitrogen extinguishers to be used on the fire. A storage area for storing a fire blanket is configured above the trailer wheels and can be deployed over the wheel to prevent damage during the fire.