Integrated Fire Suppression Controls for One-Touch Parameter Configuration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fire suppression systems on fire trucks are prone to human error due to complex and time-consuming parameter selection processes, especially during emergencies, which can lead to inefficient fire extinguishing and increased risk to firefighters, exacerbated by reduced crew sizes and less frequent fire occurrences.
Innovation Solution
A fire suppression system with an integrated operator interface featuring one-touch activation controls that automatically configure the output of predetermined fire suppression fluids, including water flow, foam type, and compressed air, reducing the complexity of selecting appropriate parameters and minimizing the risk of human error.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional pump control panels with multiple separate parameter selectors are used, then firefighters can select specific system parameters (pump pressure, foam type, foam percentage), but the process becomes time-consuming and increases the risk of human error
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is pre-programmed with multiple preset configurations that define specific pump pressures, foam types, and foam percentages for different fire scenarios. When a firefighter selects a preset, all parameters are automatically configured based on the pre-established settings, eliminating the need for manual parameter-by-parameter selection and significantly reducing configuration time while maintaining proper system setup.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple separate parameter controls (pump pressure selector, foam type selector, foam percentage selector) into a single integrated preset selection interface. By merging these previously independent controls into one unified selection mechanism, the system reduces the number of steps required for configuration and minimizes the opportunities for human error in parameter selection.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate parameter selections are required (pump pressure, foam type, foam percentage), then firefighters can customize settings for different fire scenarios, but the complexity of the control panel increases and operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains adaptability by pre-configuring multiple different preset options that cover various fire scenarios (different fire types, locations, and intensities). Each preset contains a complete set of coordinated parameters (pump pressure, foam type, foam percentage). This approach preserves versatility while simplifying the interface, as firefighters only need to select from pre-defined scenarios rather than manually coordinate multiple parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller is designed to handle multiple fire suppression functions through a single preset selection mechanism. Each preset universally defines the complete operating state for different fire scenarios, allowing the system to adapt to various fire types and conditions while maintaining a simple, unified control interface rather than requiring separate controls for each function.
3Adaptability or versatility
If firefighters manually select each parameter independently, then they can adjust settings for different fire conditions, but the risk of selecting wrong combinations or forgetting to activate certain features increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is pre-programmed with coordinated parameter combinations that have been optimized for different fire scenarios. By establishing the correct parameter relationships in advance, the system ensures that when a firefighter selects a preset, all parameters are set to their proper values simultaneously, eliminating the risk of selecting wrong combinations or missing critical settings like foam activation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides visual feedback to confirm that the selected preset has been properly applied and that all parameters are correctly configured. This feedback mechanism reassures firefighters that the system is in the correct state for the selected fire scenario, reducing anxiety and confirming proper system setup before beginning suppression operations.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 2
Figure 4~5
AI summary
An integrated operator interface for a fire suppression system is provided. The fire suppression system includes an engine, a water source, a water pump, a foam system and a compressed air system. The integrated operator interface includes a control panel including a plurality of one-touch activation controls. Each one-touch activation control is configured to cause the output of a predetermined fire suppression fluid from the fire suppression system and cause a predetermined increase in engine speed resulting in an associated increase in water pump pressure. The predetermined fire suppression fluid comprising a predetermined flow of water, a predetermined type of foamant, a predetermined concentration of the predetermined type of foamant, and a predetermined flow of compressed air.