Patent Application
20240203242
The present disclosure generally relates to a fire control system, and more particularly to a fire control system comprising a plurality of functional modules that mount directly to a hub of a fire control monitor, a fire control vehicle or a handheld fire control device.
Firefighters extinguish fires with fire control systems called monitors. The monitors are arranged to direct fluids in any range of desired trajectories. Monitors generally include flow path designs and mechanical and electrical mechanisms that enable firefighters to adjust the trajectory easily and with little force.
Fire control monitors with a wide variety of configurations have been developed over the course of time. These configurations include combinations of a wide variety of different structural elements that provide adjustability of the trajectory in combination with various mechanisms for firefighters to use to adjust the monitor to a particular trajectory or direction.
Electric monitors today generally have electrical and electronic components disposed on or adjacent to the fire control monitor. This allows for very little or difficult upgrading or addition of supplemental functionality. For one example, the addition of wireless remote control capability to a firefighting monitor is a difficult task.
In order to wirelessly control a monitor remotely, a handheld control device having an antenna must communicate with a transceiver unit that relays the commands from the handheld control device to the monitor. This transceiver unit needs to be connected, physically or electrically, to the monitor. Currently, there are three ways that this transceiver is connected to the monitor.
The first method is to permanently fix the transceiver to the monitor itself. An example is the Akron Stream Master II. Monitors using this method have the transceiver and antenna that are incorporated on the monitor. This is the simplest method to add a transceiver to the monitor. However, there are drawbacks from a manufacturing and cost standpoint. Many times, the same model monitor is used both with and without wireless remote control capabilities. If every monitor is built with a transceiver, there is extra cost added into all the other models that do not require wireless remote control. Additionally, the transceiver and antenna are permanently affixed to the position on the monitor and cannot be relocated and retain functionality.
The second method is to make the transceiver a separate component that is located near the monitor. This example can be seen on the Elkhart Cobra. This transceiver is mounted in a sealed box that is disposed near the monitor and then connected to the monitor by a cable. However, this method is problematic from a practical perspective. For instance, it is often difficult to find a proper location to mount the transceiver in the hazardous environment in which it is required to operate. In particular, there are increased difficulties in spaces with limited availability, such as the end of a firetruck ladder. When there is limited availability to mount the transceiver immediately next to the monitor, the transceiver is usually mounted on a metal plate, which interferes with the range and signal of wireless communication. Additionally, the transceiver box is permanently affixed to the desired position and cannot be relocated and retain functionality.
The third method is to convert the transceiver antenna into an upgradable component that can be added to the monitor, namely a sealed box that includes the transceiver antenna. This example can be seen in Task Force Tips Remote Control Monitors. This method has the benefit of mounting the transceiver box on the monitor for a clear signal and reduces the cost of producing monitors (since not every monitor will require a transceiver box). The drawbacks of this method are that the current transceivers consist of multiple parts and the monitor must be partially disassembled in order to add the transceiver. Disassembly and reassembly increases the risk of improper installation or accidental damage to the monitor as well as exposing the previously sealed electronics to the outside environment. Additionally, for each of the methods described above, wireless control of the monitor requires a wireless controller. The wireless controller contains many of the same components as the receiver/transceiver which is mounted proximate to the monitor. It would be beneficial from a manufacturing and cost perspective if both units were identical, so that the same assembly could be used in multiple configurations.
A long felt, but unmet, need exists for a systematic strategy for mounting an integral, sealed single-piece transceiver unit (and other functional modules) directly to a monitor via a standardized and reproducible interface that allows for easy installation and removal not only to the monitor, but also to other locations, such as, but not limited to a panel of the fire truck, a handheld device, other firefighting devices, etc.
This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form further described in the detailed description of the disclosure. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential inventive concepts of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended for determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.
The present disclosure generally describes a device, assembly and/or system that facilitates mounting of a at least one functional module directly to a hub on a fire control monitor or other firefighting device.
The present disclosure introduces a module that mounts directly to a hub on the monitor via an interface that allows for easy installation. In particular, the disclosure provides a way to easily add control and/or wireless control functionality to the monitor. The standardized mounting connection keeps costs of manufacturing low where wireless capability is not required and provides a clear communication signal, and for simple and easy installation.
The monitor base comprises an interface that allows for the addition of one or more external modular components each of which may have different functionality. These modular components serve as upgrade packages and attachments for the monitor.
The monitor may include a central electronics controller (referred to as a hub). The hub serves as a communication and distribution center for all the electrics and electronics on the monitor. The hub also contains an interface to receive one or more externally mounted modular component accessories. These modular components consist of wireless remote capabilities, onboard user controls, lighting indicators, battery pack and other components.
The system allows for a common base control system to be installed on all monitors. When a specific upgrade or feature is needed, an external module may be added to the monitor. This system allows for a simple and streamlined manufacturing and assembly process. In addition, the system serves as an easier way to upgrade a monitor with a feature later in time.
The accompanying drawings incorporated in and forming a part of the specification illustrate several aspects of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the embodiments. In the drawings:
This disclosure as a whole may be best understood by reference to the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, descriptions, abstract, background, field of disclosure and associated headings. Identical reference numbers when found on different drawings identify the same elements or a functionally equivalent element. The elements listed in the abstract are not referenced but nevertheless refer by association to the elements of the detailed description and associated disclosure.
The modular monitor control system 100 comprises a monitor 102 or other firefighting device and at least one module 104. The modular monitor control system 100 further comprises a hub 110 which provides a connection for the addition of modules 104. Module 104 references a generic module. Specific modules such as the controller interface module 200 and wireless control transmitter 300 are described below.
A firefighting monitor, commonly referred to as a monitor, is generally comprised of structural components and configurations and functionality known to a person having ordinary skill in the firefighting equipment art. Several monitor embodiments are shown in U.S. Pat. No. 9,272,171 (the “'171 Patent”), such as fixed monitors capable of rotating about a central axis on a fluid inlet, the fluid inlet receiving fluid from a fixed base and whereby the fluid inlet forms a rotary union with the fixed base in order to aim the discharge trajectory of the monitor through rotation. All of the monitor designs disclosed in the '171 Patent and all other disclosures of the '171 Patent are hereby incorporated by reference.
The present disclosure improves upon the previous models of monitors. In particular, the prior art monitors each include external control boxes installed near the monitor and the external control boxes offer limited to no protection for electrical components in wet, hazardous and/or dangerous conditions. In addition, this present disclosure is not exclusive to the monitor design disclosed in the '171 Patent, which is cited and incorporated solely to aid in description of the environment and inventive aspects, but rather, the present disclosure is applicable to any monitor design.
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The top surface 112 of the hub 110 further may include a mounting point 122 that is similarly configured as the mounting point 109 and useful to connect to various modules 104. In one preferred embodiment shown in
A notch 140 may be formed in the front surface 118 and perimeter wall 114 of the hub 110. In an embodiment, the notch 140 may be parabolic in shape, having a closed end disposed proximate the recessed surface 120 and an open end disposed adjacent the front surface 118. In the preferred embodiment, the notch 140 is disposed along the lower portion of the hub 110 adjacent the mounting connection 107 of the monitor 102. The notch 140 is configured to provide an entry way to the front cavity to store cords, cables, and other electronic components.
The hub may also include a LED light 125, to display status and communicate different status conditions such as power level, error, battery life and the like. In one embodiment, a plurality of LED lights 125 are disposed on the front surface 118. It will be recognized that the LED lights 125 may also be disposed on the perimeter wall 114, As shown in
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The hub 110 and modules 104 may be formed from any natural or man-made material, including but not limited to plastics and metal alloys. In a preferred embodiment the hub 110 and modules 104 are constructed of a plastic material. Plastic is advantageous as it provides a lightweight frame, is cost effective and allows wireless signals (such as radio waves) to pass through the hub 110. A UV stable plastic is particularly advantageous as the hub 110 is generally placed in an outdoor environment. In an alternative embodiment, the hub 110 and modules may be constructed out of a metal alloy for additional strength or support. In the preferred embodiment, the hub 110 is configured to communicate by means of any wireless signal, including but not limited to Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Bluetooth, or other wireless communication means. As such, plastic compositions made for EMF shielding are not preferred for the hub 110 and modules 104.
In addition to a monitor 102, the hub 110 and associated modules 104 may be used to operate other firefighting devices (including but not limited to valves, nozzles, or other firefighting devices where control or interface is necessary or desirable). Instead of the monitor 102, the hub 110 and modules 104 may be fitted to valves, nozzles, or other firefighting equipment by incorporating a mounting location for the hub 110 on the other firefighting equipment, substantially as described herein. The module 104 and hub 110 would interact with the other firefighting equipment similarly as to how the hub 110 and module 104 would interact with the monitor 102. The only material difference is the firefighting device to which the hub 110 and modules 104 are mounted. The hub 110 and modules 104 themselves would enable a user to carry out the various functions that there may be for other firefighting devices via direct or indirect engagement. For instance, the hub 110 and module 104 may be used to control a valve of a hydrant, the aperture of a nozzle, or any other desired functionality.
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The modules 104 may be secured to the hub 110, or other modules or firefighting devices via threaded fasteners 124 or other similar or suitable connecting devices as described herein. In an alternative embodiment, module(s) 104 may be secured directly to a panel mount 250 (
In a preferred embodiment, each module 104 comprises a connector 130 to connect to the hub 110 (and/or a connector to connect to other modules 131).
In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the module 104 may comprise a wireless control transmitter 300. The wireless control transmitter 300 attaches to the hub 110 to provide communication functionality for additional modules 104 and the monitor 102. The wireless control transmitter 300 allows a user to interface with and control the modules 104 and monitor 102 with a separate wireless controller 400. The wireless control transmitter 300 may comprise its own module 104 or alternatively be a component within any of the other modules 104 disclosed herein.
In the existing art, monitors 102 have remote control capabilities. A radio transmitter needs to be connected to and mounted on or near the monitor itself while a wireless handheld controller 400 is used remotely. In order to upgrade other existing products, one must modify existing components and install new components near the monitor. Some products require opening up the sealed electronics enclosures on the monitor and plugging in and mounting an external antenna to achieve wireless capability. Other products require selecting a spot near the monitor and mounting an external receiver. Mounting the receiver typically requires drilling holes or welding a bracket onto the monitor 102.
The present disclosure remedies these complications by providing a dedicated and standardized mounting location on the monitor 102, i.e., the hub 110, that allows the user to easily plug in the wireless adapter to gain remote control capability of the monitor 102. Specifically, the wireless control transmitter 300 may contain either an internal antenna 304 or an external antenna 306.
The internal antenna 304 is most effective with short range communication and alternative antennas may be required if a user is seeking longer range communications. The wireless control transmitter 300 may comprise an internal antenna with varying strengths to meet the needs of the user. In some cases, a module having an external antenna may be necessary.
In an alternative embodiment, the wireless control transmitter 300 comprises a remote transmitter module with a different strength antenna, to allow for long-range communication. Other embodiments to increase the signal range are also considered.
In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the module 104 may comprise a lighting module 500 that include an illumination source disposed therein to display or emit light therefrom in response to a variety of inputs, instructions, data, etc. The lighting module 500 may function, for example, as a status indicator light and/or customizable indicia. The lighting module 500 may include the functionality to create different colors and flashing patterns to signify status conditions or merely for cosmetic effect. The lighting module 500 may be customized to a certain shape or display a certain insignia. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the lighting module 500 may also project light from the module itself to illuminate the module and monitor.
In a preferred embodiment, the lighting module 500 is powered by the hub 110 via a connector 130 or another module via 131. In an alternative embodiment, the lighting module 500 is powered by batteries, the monitor 102, or an additional module 104, such as the power transfer module 600.
In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the module 104 comprises a power transfer module 600. As shown in
In addition to power transfer, the power transfer module 600 may also function as a data transfer port.
In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the module 104 comprises a screen display module 700 that may display monitor 102 position or other operating conditions, including with respect to any other modules. In an embodiment, the screen display may function as a touch screen interface for the user to control the monitor 102 or change the settings of the monitor 102.
In one embodiment of the present disclosure, the module 104 may comprise a controller interface module 200. The controller interface module 200 may connect directly or indirectly (in combination with any of the other modules) to the hub 110.
In the existing art, most monitors are controlled from a distance with a wireless handheld controller or a fixed mounted panel controller at or on the monitor. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the controller interface module 200 connects directly or indirectly (in combination with any of the other modules) to the hub 110 and gives the user direct control over the monitor 102 (a “Monitor Mount”). The controller interface module 200 may include programmable buttons, such as, for example, a one-axis nozzle stream control, and a two-axis monitor membrane joystick to operate the monitor 102, and other functionality as may be desirable related to operation of the monitor 102 or other modules 104. In alternative embodiments, the controller interface module 200 is usable in different configurations when not connected to the hub 110 directly. For instance, the controller interface module 200 may be mounted on a wireless handheld device 400 or elsewhere on a firetruck.
In an embodiment, the controller interface module 200 is attached to a panel of a firetruck, on the ladder of a firetruck, or another location accessible by a user 250 (a “Panel Mount”). As shown in
In another embodiment, the Panel Mount comprises its own hub and the controller interface module 200 connects directly or indirectly to said hub and gives the user direct control over the monitor 102.
In an embodiment, the controller interface module 200 is combined with the wireless transmitter module 300 to form a wireless handheld device 400. The wireless handheld device 400 may include the controller interface module 200, a bumper 401, and a wireless transmitter module 300. The bumper 401 may include a divider 402 which is sandwiched between the controller interface module 200 and the wireless transmitter module 300. In an embodiment, the divider 402 may comprise a cutout portion 403 to facilitate a connection between the interface module 200 and wireless transmitter module 300. When sandwiched together, the bumper 401 acts as a gasket to seal the components of the wireless handheld device 400.
The bumper 401 comprises a top wall 404, a bottom wall 405, and two side walls 406,407 which extend beyond the surfaces of the controller interface module 200 and wireless transmitter module 300. In an embodiment, the top wall 404 protrudes an additional length further than the bottom wall 405 and side walls 406,407 to form an overhang above the controller interface module 200.
The bumper 401 serves as a form of protection for the modules 200, 300. In an alternative embodiment, the bumper 401 comprises an integrated visor to protect controls on the controller interface module 200. In addition, the bumper 401 may include a grip to prevent slipping.
The wireless handheld device 400 may further include a membrane 201, a lower core (comprising a power and RF board and rechargeable batteries) 402, and a charging dock 450. In a preferred embodiment, the controller interface module 200 may include the membrane 201 and the controller module housing 202. The controller interface module 200 may include user controls, LED lights, and a control circuit board. The module 200 may either be integrated within a 104 module, or constitute a separate component for the wireless handheld device 400. The lower core may also be integrated into an existing 104 module or be a separate component for the wireless handheld device 400. The charging dock 450 provides a location where the controller can be placed to recharge the batteries within the wireless handheld device 400. The charging dock 450 may also include a pair of opposed latching arms 452 that each engage a receptacle or ledge 458 defined or formed in opposed sides of the bumper 401 in order to retain the wireless handheld device in place when charging. Preferably, at least one of the latching arms 452 includes a release lever 454 that extends from the latching arm 452 in order to facilitate ease of removal by a user. The latching arm 452 and receptacle 458 engagement is configured to withstand loads of up to nine times gravity and maintain the wireless handheld device 400 within the charging dock 450. The charging dock 450 may also include opposed alignment arms 456 disposed normal to the latching arms 452 on the charging dock 450 that assist insertion of the wireless handheld device 400 into the charging dock 450 in the optimal position to maximize the efficiency of wireless charging.
In an alternative embodiment, the wireless handheld device 400 is capable of wireless charging. In the alternative embodiment, the wireless handheld device 400 can be wirelessly recharged with nearly any wireless charging device (such as a phone or mobile device wireless charger).
A controller interface module may be installed within each of the Monitor Mount, Panel Mount and wireless handheld device. If the user is located proximate the monitor 102, the user may elect to control the monitor 102 with the Monitor Mount. If the user is located proximate the separate panel 200, the user may elect to control the monitor 102 with the Panel Mount. Alternatively, the user may operate the monitor 102 with the wireless handheld device when within range.
A user may stack the modules 104 together (i.e., attach a first module to the hub 110 and a second module to the first module) for additional functionality. In addition, the modules 104 may be configured to a set standard, such that all may be installed at any location, such as, for example, on the monitor hub 110, a panel hub 110, a ladder hub 110, a wireless controller 400, and the like.
It is understood that the preceding is merely a detailed description of some examples and embodiments of the present disclosure and that numerous changes to the disclosed embodiments may be made in accordance with the disclosure made herein without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure. The preceding description, therefore, is not meant to limit the scope of the disclosure, but to provide sufficient disclosure to allow one of ordinary skill in the art to practice the disclosure without undue burden.
This application claims benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63/433,511, filed Dec. 19, 2022, the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 63433511 | Dec 2022 | US |
