Stackable Container Fire Suppression Module for Dense Grid Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fire suppression systems in automated storage and retrieval systems, which utilize ceiling sprinklers, are not effective in reaching containers located at the center of densely packed three-dimensional grids, leaving them vulnerable to fire risks.
Innovation Solution
A stackable container fire suppression module with a fire suppressant reservoir, actuatable valve, and outlet, which can deliver fire suppressant directly into the container upon actuation by smoke detection, temperature elevation, or flame detection, allowing for automatic fire suppression within the container.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ceiling sprinklers are used for fire suppression in automated storage and retrieval systems, then the system can provide fire suppression coverage, but the sprinklers cannot effectively reach containers located at the center of densely packed three-dimensional grids
Solution Approach 1:
The fire suppression system is segmented into individual container-level modules rather than a centralized ceiling sprinkler system. Each container holds its own fire suppression module that can independently detect and respond to fire conditions within that specific container, ensuring reliable coverage regardless of the container's position in the densely packed grid.
Solution Approach 2:
The fire suppression approach transitions from a vertical ceiling-mounted system to a horizontal container-integrated system. By placing the fire suppression module inside the container at the same level as the stored goods, the system eliminates the reachability problem inherent in vertical ceiling sprinklers for centrally located containers.
2Extent of automation
If traditional ceiling sprinkler systems are implemented, then fire suppression can be provided for the warehouse, but manual intervention and external fire hoses are required for direct container suppression
Solution Approach 1:
Each container is equipped with its own fire suppression module that includes an actuatable valve and detectable fire conditions. The system performs self-service fire suppression by automatically detecting fire conditions within the container and actuating the suppressant delivery without requiring manual intervention or external fire hoses, thereby increasing both automation and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The fire suppression module is pre-installed within each container before the container is placed in the automated storage and retrieval system. This preliminary preparation ensures that when fire conditions occur, the suppression system is immediately ready to respond without requiring manual setup or external assistance, enabling rapid automatic suppression.
3Productivity
If densely packed three-dimensional grids are used to reduce warehouse space, then storage density increases, but fire suppression access to central containers becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The fire suppression module is nested within the container structure itself, with the module's outlet positioned to deliver suppressant directly into the container's internal storage space. This nested configuration allows the suppression system to be integrated into the densely packed grid without requiring additional space for external suppression infrastructure, maintaining both high storage density and reliable fire suppression accessibility.
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
Ensures effective fire suppression within densely packed automated storage and retrieval systems without manual intervention, protecting containers from fire and preventing spread, while being retrofitable into existing systems without redesign.
Implementation Method 1
an actuatable valve; and an outlet in communication with the actuatable valve, wherein the actuatable valve is disposed to selectively isolate the fire suppressant reservoir from the outlet
Implementation Method 2
a fire suppressant reservoir; an actuatable valve; and an outlet in communication with the actuatable valve
Implementation Method 3
the actuatable valve comprises a fusible element and the actuation condition comprises an elevation in temperature to a predetermined temperature
Implementation Method 4
the actuation condition comprises smoke detection, an elevation in temperature, flame detection
Implementation Method 5
the actuation condition comprises smoke detection, an elevation in temperature, flame detection
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a stackable container fire suppression module configured to be retained in a stackable container, the stackable container fire suppression module comprises: a fire suppressant reservoir; an actuatable valve; and an outlet in communication with the actuatable valve. The actuatable valve is disposed to selectively isolate the fire suppressant reservoir from the outlet.