Extinguishing Agent Discharge Device with Current Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Firefighting personnel face life-threatening electric shocks when using conductive extinguishing agents near live electric installations due to the risk of continuous electrical connections, especially in electromobility scenarios where safety distances are difficult to maintain and existing safety protocols are insufficient.
Innovation Solution
An extinguishing-agent discharge device equipped with a measuring-current transformer, insulator section, electrodes for potential difference detection, and a control device with evaluation electronics and electromechanical drive to detect and interrupt potentially dangerous electric currents and voltages, ensuring safe operation by preventing body currents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional extinguishing-agent discharge devices are used without safety detection systems, then the device structure remains simple and easy to operate, but electric safety is compromised and life-threatening body currents can occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary safety detection system between the extinguishing agent and the operator. This system includes a current transformer that detects electric current in the extinguishing agent, and a control unit that acts as a mediator to interrupt the extinguishing agent flow when dangerous currents are detected, thereby preventing body currents without requiring complex insulation or isolation structures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the current transformer continuously monitors the electric current in the extinguishing agent and provides real-time information to the control unit. The control unit uses this feedback to automatically interrupt the extinguishing agent flow when threshold currents are detected, creating a closed-loop safety system that dynamically responds to electrical conditions
2Reliability
If safety distances are increased when fighting fires with conductive extinguishing agents, then electric safety is improved, but productivity and effectiveness of fire fighting is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the extinguishing-agent discharge device to perform self-protection by automatically detecting dangerous electrical conditions and interrupting its own operation. The current transformer and control unit work together to self-regulate the system, eliminating the need for operators to maintain increased safety distances while preserving fire fighting effectiveness
3Reliability
If existing safety protocols such as insulated gloves and measuring devices are used, then some safety protection is provided, but the protocols are arbitrary and insufficient for electric vehicles with ungrounded power supply systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces arbitrary mechanical safety measures (insulated gloves, measuring devices) with an automated electrical detection and control system. The current transformer and control unit provide objective, real-time monitoring of electrical conditions, replacing subjective safety protocols with a universal system that adapts to any electrical situation including ungrounded power supply systems in electric vehicles
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device effectively enhances electric safety for firefighters by detecting and preventing life-threatening currents, allowing for reduced safety distances and safer firefighting in electric installations, including electromobility scenarios.
Implementation Method 1
a measuring-current transformer which encloses the extinguishing agent flowing in the guide channel and generates a current signal which is proportional to the electric current flowing in the extinguishing agent
Implementation Method 2
a first electrode which is disposed in the discharge area in the extinguishing-agent flow and serves for detecting an extinguishing-agent potential
Implementation Method 3
a second electrode which is disposed at the metallic handle for detecting a ground potential in the inlet area
Data Source
AI summary
An extinguishing-agent discharge device includes a casing having a guide channel for an extinguishing agent, a metallic handle, a hose connection, an adjustment means for regulating an extinguishing-agent supply using a manual control unit and a discharge nozzle. A measuring-current transformer generates a current signal proportional to the electric current flowing in the extinguishing agent; an insulator section divides the casing into a discharge area having the discharge nozzle and an inlet area having the manual control unit, the measuring-current transformer disposed in the insulator section; a first electrode disposed in the discharge area in the extinguishing-agent flow and serves for detecting an extinguishing-agent potential; a second electrode disposed at the handle for detecting a ground potential in the inlet area; and a controller for evaluating the current signal for a potential difference occurring between the extinguishing-agent and ground and having a drive element acting on the adjustment means.