Multi-Segment Fire Curtain Sealing to Prevent Smoke and Fire Seepage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing retractable smoke/fire curtain systems face issues with smoke and fire seepage through connection seams, particularly at the interfaces of adjacent curtain segments, and require synchronous extension and retraction of multiple segments, often necessitating separate motor operators for each segment.
Innovation Solution
A multi-curtain assembly with adjacent segments featuring an edge fastener, such as a zipper, and an overlap fastener with hook/loop or magnetic components, along with a synchronizing mechanism and engagement wheels, to align and securely attach segments while preventing smoke and fire from passing through seams.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a zipper or releasable fastening mechanism is used to connect adjacent curtain segments, then the curtain segments can be automatically connected and separated during deployment and retraction, but fire and smoke can seep through the connection seams
Solution Approach 1:
An overlap fastener acts as an intermediary element between adjacent curtain segments. This fastener includes an overlap region that physically covers the seam created by the zipper, preventing fire and smoke from passing through while allowing the zipper to maintain its automatic connection function. The overlap fastener mediates between the need for automatic connection and the need for fire/smoke prevention.
Solution Approach 2:
The overlap fastener is nested within the connection interface of adjacent curtain segments. The overlap region is positioned to cover the zipper seam, creating a nested structure where the overlap fastener is embedded within the connection mechanism. This nested arrangement allows the overlap fastener to seal the seam without interfering with the zipper's automatic operation.
2Stability of the object's composition
If separate motor operators are used for each curtain segment to achieve synchronous extension and retraction, then synchronized movement can be achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple curtain segments are merged into a single integrated assembly where adjacent segments are connected by fastening mechanisms (zipper and overlap fastener). This merging allows the segments to move together as a unified structure, eliminating the need for separate motor operators for each segment. The connection mechanisms enable the segments to be driven synchronously by a single motor while maintaining their individual structural integrity.
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 solution ensures seamless alignment and secure attachment of curtain segments, effectively blocking smoke and fire by masking the seam of the edge fastener and allowing synchronized operation of multiple segments with a single motor, enhancing safety and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an overlap fastener of hook and loop or magnetic fasteners
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
A multi-curtain assembly includes: first and second curtain segments, each having a leading edge and side edge; an edge fastener having first and second fastener portions proximate the side edge of the first and second curtain segments, respectively, the first fastener portion of the first curtain segment being connectable to the second fastener portion of the second curtain segment to produce a seam as the curtain segments are moved to their closed positions; a motor driving one or more of the barrel assemblies; a synchronizing mechanism synchronizing the barrel assemblies. An overlap fastener, arranged proximate edges of the curtain segments in an overlap region, has aligning portions that align as the side edges are brought into alignment by the edge fastener, to mask at least one side of the fastener seam as the fastener portions are connected to each other.