Flameless Fire Extinguisher Training Apparatus
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fire extinguisher training methods and devices often require open flames, which are hazardous in certain environments, and previous flameless solutions are limited by lack of portability and adaptability to varying fire characteristics.
Innovation Solution
A flameless fire extinguisher training apparatus using light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and sensors to simulate a dynamic flame, controlled by an algorithm corresponding to different fire classes, allowing for portable and adaptable training without actual flames, and a fire extinguisher simulator that emits stimuli detectable by sensors to mimic the use of a real extinguisher.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If open flame is used in fire extinguisher training, then trainees can practice with real fire characteristics, but it creates hazardous conditions in certain environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a simulated flame display that copies the visual appearance and dynamic characteristics of a real fire without using actual combustion. The display shows flame-like patterns that respond to extinguisher application, providing realistic training feedback without the hazards of real fire.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/chemical system of real fire combustion with an electronic display system. Sensors detect extinguishant application and the controller adjusts the visual display accordingly, substituting physical fire with an electronic simulation that provides the same training value without the hazards.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If flameless training devices are used to eliminate hazards, then safety is improved, but portability and adaptability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The training device is designed to simulate multiple types of fires (Class A, B, C, D, and K) using the same portable apparatus. The controller can program different flame characteristics and responses to accommodate various fire classes, making the device universally applicable for different training scenarios without requiring multiple specialized devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The simulated flame display is dynamic and can be programmed to exhibit different characteristics corresponding to various fire classes. The system adapts its behavior based on the selected fire type and responds dynamically to extinguishant application, providing versatile training capability in a single portable unit.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If flameless training devices are used to eliminate hazards, then safety is improved, but adaptability to varying fire characteristics is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The training device is designed to simulate multiple types of fires (Class A, B, C, D, and K) using the same portable apparatus. The controller can program different flame characteristics and responses to accommodate various fire classes, making the device universally applicable for different training scenarios without requiring multiple specialized devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes parameters of the simulated flame display to match different fire characteristics. The controller programs variations in flame appearance, behavior, and response to extinguishment for different fire classes, allowing the device to adapt to varying fire characteristics while maintaining safety.
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
Enables effective and safe training in environments where open flames are undesirable, providing immediate feedback on technique and allowing for certification of firefighters and other public safety personnel, while being portable and adaptable to various fire scenarios.
Implementation Method 1
The display may include a plurality of light source, for example, a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs)
Implementation Method 2
the stimulus emitted by one of a fire extinguisher and a fire extinguisher simulator comprises one of an electromagnetic signal, a pressure wave signal, a fluid stream, and a solid particle stream
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~6
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for use in fire extinguisher training are provided. These methods and apparatus are implemented electronically without the need for an open flame. The training apparatus (12) includes a display (13) having a plurality of light sources adapted to display a varying light pattern simulating a dynamic flame; a sensor (15) adapted to detect a stimulus emitted by one of a fire extinguisher and a fire extinguisher simulator (18) and output a signal corresponding to the detected stimulus; and one or more processors (210) adapted to receive the output from the sensor (15) and vary the light pattern simulating the dynamic flame on the display (13) in response to the stimulus detected by the sensor (15). The methods and apparatus may be used to train firefighters in the proper use of a fire extinguisher, for example, training in the techniques typically required when suppressing European class A, B, C, D, E, or F type fires.