Perforated Enclosure Panels for Wildfire Ember Venting Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wildfires pose significant risks to elevated decks and utility structures such as propane tanks, with embers igniting combustible materials and propane tanks exploding due to high-pressure relief valves, necessitating a system to protect these structures from fire hazards and maintain structural integrity.
Innovation Solution
The use of perforated patterned panels, including lattice and slat designs, to enclose the perimeter of decks and utility structures, providing ventilation and ember protection while maintaining structural integrity and appearance, with features like flashing skirts, track rails, and heat curtains to facilitate access and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If propane tanks and utility equipment are placed near housing structures, then accessibility and ease of operation are improved, but fire safety and protection from wildfires deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The enclosure is divided into multiple panels that can be assembled around the propane tank, creating a segmented protective structure. This allows the tank to remain accessible while being protected by the enclosure segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The enclosure structure serves as an intermediary barrier between the propane tank and external fire hazards. The enclosure includes features like ember screens and ventilation systems that mediate the interaction between the tank and surrounding environment.
2Use of energy by moving object
If elevated decks are left open, then ventilation and air flow are improved, but protection from embers and fire hazards deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The enclosure panels incorporate perforated metal screens and mesh materials that allow air and vapor to pass through while blocking embers and debris. This porous structure maintains ventilation while providing fire protection.
Solution Approach 2:
The enclosure system combines different materials such as metal panels, mesh screens, and ventilation components to create a composite structure that simultaneously provides protection and airflow.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If enclosure panels are made solid to prevent ember penetration, then fire protection is improved, but ventilation and structural appearance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The panels use perforated metal construction with holes and openings that are too small for embers to pass through but large enough to allow air circulation. This porous design maintains both protection and ventilation.
Solution Approach 2:
The enclosure is divided into multiple panels with consistent perforated patterns, allowing each segment to contribute to both protection and airflow while maintaining structural integrity and aesthetic appearance.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses and methods useful for keeping embers and other sources of heat away from building and utility structures, such as elevated decks and propane tanks, are described. An enclosure is formed from a plurality of perforated patterned panels positioned around the building or utility structure. The perforated patterned panels may include a plurality of openings disposed in variety of configurations, including in perforated block segments along a set of surfaces on the panel. The openings also may form continuous perforated strip sections along the panel. The panels may be joined using trim and other component to provide protection against wildfire events, while allowing for ventilation during everyday use.