Modular Fire Suppression Unit with Autonomous Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing residential fire suppression systems are costly to install and maintain, and lack a practical method for servicing and replacing essential components, making them financially impractical for homeowners, especially in existing structures.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained, self-actuated modular fire suppression unit that autonomously detects and suppresses fires, featuring a pressurized tank, motorized nozzle, battery unit, circuit board, and frangible glass bulb for heat detection, with a mounting system allowing easy installation and servicing, including a pawl and linear ratchet assembly for secure attachment to ceiling joists.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fixed piping and dispersal nozzles are installed throughout a structure, then fire suppression capability is improved, but material and labor costs become prohibitive
Solution Approach 1:
The fire suppression system is divided into multiple independent modular units, each containing its own tank, valve, and dispersal nozzle. These self-contained modules can be installed individually at strategic locations rather than requiring extensive piping throughout the entire structure, significantly reducing material and labor costs while maintaining fire suppression capability.
2Ease of manufacture
If self-contained modular fire suppression units are installed, then installation cost is reduced, but servicing and replacing essential components becomes impractical
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system incorporates a removable bracket design with quick-connect mechanisms that allow the modular fire suppression units to be easily detached and reattached. This dynamic mounting approach enables homeowners to service or replace components such as tanks, valves, and nozzles without requiring specialized tools or professional assistance, making maintenance practical despite the self-contained nature of the units.
3Reliability
If remotely actuated modular fire suppression units are used, then fire suppression capability is maintained, but connection to external devices is required increasing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The modular fire suppression units are equipped with autonomous detection and actuation systems that automatically detect fire conditions and discharge suppressant without requiring external sensors or control devices. This self-service capability eliminates the need for complex external connections while maintaining reliable fire suppression functionality, simplifying both installation and system architecture.
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
Provides a cost-effective, easily installable, and maintainable fire suppression solution that is aesthetically preferable to traditional smoke detectors, offering flexible installation options and improved safety with autonomous detection and suppression capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
frangible glass bulb for heat detection
Implementation Method 2
pressurized tank
Data Source
AI summary
A residential fire suppression unit for providing an automated safeguard against a localized fire within a residential space. The unit includes a mounting bracket, pressurized tank of fire retardant, a dispersal nozzle and motorized valve assembly, a smoke detector, and a fire detector. The self-contained self-actuated modular fire suppression unit preferably mounts in the ceiling of a residential space and detects smoke within the space below it and sound an audible alarm. Additionally, the unit detects fire within the space below and actuates a motorized valve assembly allowing the pressurized fire retardant stored in the tank to be expelled.