Targeted Fire Suppression Nozzles for ASRS Storage Columns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fire suppression systems in automated storage and retrieval systems are not effectively targeted and may cause damage to goods and robotic vehicles due to the indiscriminate distribution of fire suppressant.
Innovation Solution
An automated storage and retrieval system with targeted fire suppression units that deliver fire suppressant directly to specific storage columns using adjustable nozzles and actuatable mounts, controlled by a control system to minimize the spread of fire suppressant and protect goods and vehicles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional ceiling sprinklers are used to suppress fire, then fire coverage is provided, but fire suppressant is indiscriminately distributed causing damage to goods and robotic vehicles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by transitioning from uniform ceiling sprinkler coverage to localized, targeted fire suppression. Each fire suppression unit is equipped with a controllable nozzle that directs suppressant precisely at the detected fire source, affecting only the local area where fire exists rather than distributing suppressant throughout the entire warehouse. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining fire suppression effectiveness while minimizing harmful effects on goods and vehicles in non-fire areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the fire suppression system into multiple independent units, each with its own controllable nozzle. Instead of a single centralized sprinkler system that distributes suppressant broadly, the system divides suppression capability into discrete units positioned at strategic locations. Each unit independently targets its own fire source, thereby segmenting the suppressant distribution to match the segmented nature of potential fire locations, reducing overall suppressant waste and damage.
2Measurement precision
If ceiling sprinklers are used for fire suppression, then fire coverage is achieved, but response precision to specific fire locations is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by integrating fire detection systems with controllable fire suppression units. When a fire is detected, the system receives feedback about the fire's location and activates only the specific suppression unit nearest to the fire source. This feedback mechanism enables precise targeting of fire suppressant delivery, improving measurement precision of fire suppression location while optimizing suppressant usage efficiency by avoiding distribution to areas without fire.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by using controllable, adjustable nozzles that can dynamically redirect fire suppressant flow. The nozzles are not fixed in orientation but can be adjusted to point precisely at the fire source based on real-time fire location data. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt suppressant delivery direction and target accuracy, resolving the contradiction between response precision and suppressant usage efficiency.
Data Source
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AI summary
The disclosure relates to an automated storage and retrieval system comprising a frame, a fire suppression unit, and a control system. The frame defines storage columns for receiving storage containers. The fire suppression unit is positioned to deliver fire suppressant into storage columns. The fire suppression unit comprises a nozzle and an actuatable mount. The control system is configured to instruct the fire suppression unit to direct the nozzle to the target storage column and to output fire suppressant towards the target storage column.