Fire Extinguishing Valve Assembly for Targeted Agent Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fire extinguishing systems for vehicles are unreliable and complex, particularly in limited spaces where separate extinguishing lines are needed, and often require electricity for operation.
Innovation Solution
A fire extinguishing system with a single medium container connected to two sub-systems via a valve assembly, utilizing pressurized detection conduits or electrical arrangements to automatically direct the extinguishing medium to either sub-system, allowing for efficient and reliable operation without the need for external power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fire extinguishing system uses separate extinguishing lines for different locations, then the system can provide targeted extinguishing to specific areas, but the system complexity increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the extinguishing function into separate distribution lines (first and second distribution lines) that can independently deliver extinguishing agent to different locations. The valve assembly segments the flow path, allowing selective activation of specific lines based on fire location, thereby providing targeted extinguishing while maintaining system reliability through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve member is movably arranged within the valve assembly, enabling dynamic switching between different distribution lines. This dynamic configuration allows the system to adapt its extinguishing path in real-time based on detection signals, providing targeted extinguishing to the affected area while maintaining overall system reliability through flexible routing.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fire extinguishing system uses separate extinguishing lines for different locations, then the system can provide targeted extinguishing to specific areas, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve assembly merges multiple control functions into a single integrated component. The first and second force receiving surfaces are integrated on the same valve member, allowing both distribution lines to be controlled by a single valve assembly rather than requiring separate valve mechanisms for each line, thereby reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve member serves multiple functions: it controls flow to the first distribution line, controls flow to the second distribution line, and can be actuated by different force applicators (first and second force applicators). This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each function, simplifying the overall system design.
3Extent of automation
If a fire extinguishing system uses manual or electrically controlled valves, then the system can be operated on demand, but the system requires external power and reduces automation
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses self-service actuation where the detection conduit arrangements directly generate the force needed to move the valve member. When a fire is detected, the detection conduit arrangement in that location automatically generates pressure or force that moves the valve member to direct extinguishing agent to the affected area, eliminating the need for external power sources or manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs pneumatic or hydraulic principles where pressurized fluid in the detection conduits serves dual purposes: both as the detection medium and as the actuation force. The pressure differential created by fire detection in one location automatically drives the valve member to redirect flow, providing automatic operation without electrical components.
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 system provides a robust, cost-effective, and automatic fire extinguishing solution that can operate in limited spaces without electricity, ensuring reliable distribution of extinguishing medium to separate sub-systems upon detection of a fire.
Implementation Method 1
a first force receiving surface arranged to be subjected to a first force exerted by a force applicator of the first detection conduit arrangement and for moving the valve member to a first position
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a fire extinguishing system comprising a fire extinguishing medium container (3), a first (5) and second (7) fire extinguishing sub-systems, and a valve assembly (9) fluidly connecting the fire extinguishing medium container (3) to each of the first (5) and second (7) fire extinguishing sub-systems. The fire extinguishing system (1) further comprises a first and a second detection conduit arrangement (19, 21) connected to the valve assembly (9) and arranged to activate the fire extinguishing system (1), wherein the valve assembly (9) comprises a valve chamber (33), a valve member (35) being movably arranged in the valve chamber (33), the valve member (35) having: i) a first force receiving surface (45) arranged to be subjected to a first force (F1) exerted by a force applicator of the first detection conduit arrangement (19), and ii) a second force receiving surface (47) arranged to be subjected to a second force (F2) exerted by a second force application arrangement of the second detection conduit arrangement (21).