Patent Grant
10870027
The present invention relates to a coupling device for a fire hose nozzle to enhance protection of life in fire situations, and more specifically provides an expeditious and easy to use tool for firefighters while fighting a fire.
During the act of firefighting, firefighters commonly create a manmade opening into a compartmentalized area containing a fire. This can pose an extreme danger to both fire personnel and occupants who may be present in uninvolved areas. The responding firefighters are therefore faced with the dilemma of rapidly getting water on the fire, while maintaining the integrity of the entrance door or other opening through which they apply their hose streams. The solution, in the form of a quick connect stream applicator or rapid placement stream applicator, is a component and tool that assists firefighters in applying water to fires burning within an enclosed area, space or room in a building, structure or vessel, including a subway or utility vault. As such, this device in all of its embodiments will be generally identified as Rapid Access Containment (RAC) devices. These RAC devices will allow the firefighters to apply water to the fire without the need to create a manmade opening.
Firefighting is a dangerous activity stemming partly from the unpredictable nature of the fire in general and the difficulty in many cases for the fire fighter to access the fire. A common technique in firefighting is to limit or cut off a supply of oxygen so that a fire can be contained and extinguished. Various techniques exist to accomplish this general goal, such as dousing a fire with oxygen—absorbing or limiting chemicals, or with water. When a fire occurs in an internal structure, such as a residential apartment, warehouse, high-rise building or the like, it is difficult in many instances to access a fire area with firefighting equipment while simultaneously limiting or avoiding the introduction of oxygen to the fire environment. It should be noted that fire conditions are significantly exacerbated when doors or windows are left open or fail, especially on upper floors of hi-rise buildings, resulting in what is commonly known as a “wind driven fire”. This phenomenon causes the fire to quickly reach blowtorch proportions in the public hallways and stairways and has claimed the lives of numerous firefighters and civilians in recent years. Likewise, in the occurrence of an apartment fire, for example, the sudden introduction of a large supply of oxygen to a fire—which will occur when fire fighters open or force entry into an apartment via its entrance door to gain access to the fire with fire hoses—creating conditions for a phenomenon known as a “backdraft” which has threatened and taken the lives of many fire fighters over the years.
By definition, a backdraft is a phenomenon that can occur when an oxygen deficiency exists in a fire while the remaining combustible fuel gases are present at a temperature hotter than the ignition point of the fuel gases. If oxygen is re-introduced to the fire, combustion will restart, often explosively, as the gases are heated by the combustion and expand rapidly because of the rapidly increasing temperature condition occurring.
Accordingly, it is an object of the disclosed embodiments to provide a device that facilitates rapid access to a fire area by firefighters in order to introduce water to the fire so that it can be contained and extinguished without the introduction of additional oxygen into the fire area and thus limit to the greatest degree possible the adverse effects of any wind driven fire. At the same time the device will prohibit the spread of heat and fire gases into other occupied areas of the structure or building. As such, this device in all of its embodiments will be generally identified as Rapid Access Containment (RAC) devices.
In accordance with a first embodiment, formidable entrance doors (i.e., fire doors) providing access to an enclosed space within a building, structure or vessel will have a specialized device (a.k.a. a quick connect stream applicator) or Rapid Access Containment Device (i.e. RAC device-Door) built permanently into it for the purpose of directing a stream of water onto the fire without opening the door or creating another access point in the initial stages of the fire. In this first embodiment, the device can include a glass eyepiece viewer panel (peephole) for security purposes when installed in an entry door to a residence. Finally, in the first and other embodiments, the device can include a locking, flush mount, watertight cap instead of a glass viewer when exposed to the elements, which can be easily opened by fire personnel. In all of the embodiments described herein a tight seal is accomplished at the point of connection between the nozzle and the quick connect coupling. This is accomplished by means of a high heat resistant O-ring/seal made of a Perfluoroelastomer (FFKM) such as Kalrez, Markez or Chemraz This tight seal will facilitate ventilation of an involved area or space by attaching the nozzle and the uncharged length(s) of hose to any of the device applications and to then attach the female end of the hose to a vacuum or external exhaust thereby minimizing unnecessary exposure to smoke, chemical agents and any other airborne pathogens by those present therein. Similarly, in extreme cases where hostages are being held law enforcement can introduce a harmless sedating agent into the building or space in an effort to neutralize an ongoing threat posed by a hostage taker. These various access points into a building or space may also be used to the advantage of law enforcement to eavesdrop on conversations between the hostage taker and his victims or possibly provide a view of the suspect.
In a second embodiment, the device can be installed within a metal fireproof box in a wall that separates the public hall stairway from an interior hallway on any floor of a fireproof building (i.e. RAC device-Stairway). This embodiment will assist in maintaining the integrity of the public stairways under fire conditions, which are commonly known as fire towers in high-rise office or residential buildings. It will assist in affording safe egress for both firefighters and civilians to the greatest degree possible when descending the public hall stairways on those occasions when a fire exists on a lower floor. It will give firefighters an opportunity to greatly limit the amount of time that the door between the fire tower and the interior public hall on the fire floor is kept open thereby limiting the amount of heat and smoke that enters the fire tower. This embodiment will increase the survivability of anyone who may have entered the fire tower on any floor above the fire floor and yet afford firefighters the opportunity to commence fire operations. This device will assist in the evacuation of the “attack stairway” (i.e. stairway wherein firefighters commence fire operations, stretch and operate their hose lines) while fire extinguishment is underway. This is especially important since it is virtually impossible for firefighters to ensure that the “attack stairway” is not chosen as a means of egress by people who may be several floors above the fire or may have already been overcome in the fire tower prior to their arrival.
A third embodiment is characterized in that the device can be installed in the roof with a threaded pipe extension and an attached stream director or distributor (i.e. RAC device-Roof). The purpose of this device is to assist firefighters in getting water on the fire as quickly as possible when the fire is burning in a concealed roof space commonly known as the cockloft (i.e. the space above the top floor ceiling and below the roof boards). A fire in this portion of a building creates enormous problems for firefighters since it often extends over several apartments or commercial occupancies, involves a great deal of combustible material in the form of readily ignitable wood framing and roofing material, and is extremely difficult to access for purposes of water application and extinguishment. Additionally, the task of cutting holes in the roof or pulling sections of ceiling down on the top floor to determine the boundaries of a fire of this type is extremely destructive, very time consuming, and difficult to accomplish. The embodiments will provide the following advantages: When properly spaced and installed in the roof, the devices will serve as a ready means to identify the boundaries of the fire while limiting the need for cutting examination holes in the roof. Once the direction of fire travel is determined and its boundaries identified, hose lines can be inserted into the embodiments at the appropriate locations in lieu of the fire department's routine trench cut (i.e. a large rectangular cut in the roof made by firefighters). In essence, this system would amount to a trench cut with the added protection of an intact roof structure, rather than a dangerous condition that is often created when an actual trench cut is made in the roof. Much time would be saved and property damage greatly reduced since water application into the cockloft would be almost immediate and in the specific area or section of the roof as required. This would prove most advantageous to stopping or greatly limiting the spread of the advancing fire. Because the roof device openings are relatively small (approximately 6 inches in diameter) there is less likelihood of pulling the fire into uninvolved areas of the cockloft, as is the case when a trench cut or large roof opening is made in the roof by firefighters. Since the device openings also serve as limited vent holes, the chances of a backdraft is reduced.
The disclosed devices allow the dissipation of heat and thus diminish the expansion of steel I-beams from the heat of the fire, which will increase the amount of time it takes for the collapse of the roof structure or the subsequent ignition of adjacent wood structural members. When a large fire occurs on an upper floor(s) of a high rise structure, people are often forced to seek refuge on the roof. This is especially problematic when the fire is outside the reach of conventional hose streams and people are precluded from descending the public hall stairs due to this lower floor fire. In such cases, if the device is installed in the roof of the high-rise, people can stretch the standpipe hose line located on the top floor in the fire tower(s) into one or more of these devices. This will increase their survival time on the roof, limit the production of heat at roof level, and facilitate the landing of a helicopter for rescue and removal of those trapped on the roof, when practical.
A fourth embodiment is characterized in that the device can be installed at street level above a subway platform or tunnel with a threaded pipe extension (i.e. RAC device-Subway). The purpose of this embodiment is to introduce a hose stream from street level into an underground space such as a subway in order to protect people that may be unable to evacuate due to a fire, explosion or chemical release. This type of situation will generally involve large numbers of people attempting to evacuate through limited emergency exits. This embodiment could also be used to introduce a fresh air supply from street level into the subway area similar to that used in mining accidents. This is especially important in recent years since there is an increased potential for terrorist activity with regard to explosives, anthrax, sarin gas and other chemicals. The combination of fresh air and the application of water streams from street level could save many lives. This device will provide a means by which lines of communication could be established from street level with those trapped in the subway and a means to obtain air samples, if necessary, in order to determine air quality and chemicals that may be present so first responders are adequately protected in order to accomplish their objective. This embodiment also facilitates ventilation of the subway and permits the introduction of small cameras to define the extent of the emergency.
A fifth embodiment is characterized in that the device can be installed in a wall or floor of a room, underground space, shaft or vessel (i.e. RAC device-Confined Space). The purpose of this device is to introduce a hose stream from the exterior side of an enclosed room or space to contain and extinguish a fire burning therein, while affording those present in the structure, underground area, shaft or vessel an opportunity to reach safety. This type of situation will generally involve large numbers of people attempting to evacuate through limited emergency exits. This device could also be used to introduce a fresh air supply into a room or confined space within a structure, underground space, shaft or vessel. It is also a means by which air samples can be obtained, if necessary, to determine air quality and chemicals that may be present within this space so first responders are adequately protected to accomplish their objective. This device also facilitates ventilation of the involved area or space. This is possible since a tight seal is accomplished at the point of connection between the nozzle and the quick connect coupling in all of the embodiments by attaching the nozzle and the uncharged length(s) of hose to any of the device applications and to then attach the female end of the hose to a vacuum or external exhaust thereby minimizing unnecessary exposure to smoke, chemical agents and any other airborne pathogens by those present therein. Similarly, in extreme cases where hostages are being held law enforcement can introduce a harmless sedating agent into the building or space in an effort to neutralize an ongoing threat posed by a hostage taker. These various access points into a building or space may also be used to the advantage of law enforcement to eavesdrop on conversations between the hostage taker and his victims or possibly provide a view of the suspect.
In general, the number of devices required would be a function of the overall size of the enclosed area and the coverage being sought. The disclosed embodiments includes the following general characteristics: 1) quick connect/disconnect coupling permitting a fire hose nozzle to be connected directly to the device wherever it might be installed facilitating water application onto the fire; 2) a tilting mechanism so that a water stream can be accurately directed, and, optionally, 3) a heat sensor to detect conditions in the fire area prior to gaining entry. It is noted that in fire districts or municipalities where the nozzle tip of choice is not the main stream tip as described herein, the quick connect coupling may be omitted. In the absence of the quick connect coupling, any size hose nozzle can be inserted directly into the rapid placement stream applicator as noted in
In one aspect, the disclosed embodiments provide a nozzle access device configured to be installed in a structural element defining, at least in part, an enclosed space. The nozzle access device is configured to accept connection by a fire hose nozzle to introduce firefighting fluid into the enclosed space. The nozzle access device includes a housing configured to be inserted in a hole formed in the structural element. The housing includes: a first face surrounded by a first flange and having an opening in a central portion thereof, the opening being surrounded by a cylindrical socket extending from the first face in a first direction; a cylindrical body portion extending from the first face in the first direction; and a second face surrounded by a second flange and having an opening in a central portion thereof, the second flange being configured to attach to an end of the body portion distal from the first face so that the first face, the second face, and the body portion define an interior of the housing. The housing further includes a movable nozzle connector disposed within the interior of the housing. The nozzle connector has a connection portion configured to receive an inserted fire hose nozzle in a locking connection, and a cylindrical nozzle stop portion extending from the connection portion, the nozzle stop portion being movably coupled within an interior of the socket of the first face.
Particular embodiments may include one or more of the following features.
The socket of the first face may have a concave interior surface and a distal end of the nozzle stop portion has a convex outer surface. The structural element may be a fire door. The nozzle stop portion may be configured to move rotatively and linearly within the interior of the socket of the first face. The nozzle access device may include a viewer panel attached to the first face of the housing and covering the opening in the first face, the viewer panel having a lens configured to provide a view from within the enclosed space of an exterior space on an exterior side of the structural element. The device may further include a one-way or mirrored viewer covering the opening in the second face of the housing.
The connection portion of the nozzle connector may include a seal configured to surround an end of an inserted nozzle. The connection portion of the nozzle connector may include at least one of locking pins, locking balls, and locking rings configured to engage behind a collar of an inserted nozzle to form the locking connection. The connection portion may include a spring release mechanism configured to release an inserted nozzle from the locking connection.
The device may further include a heat sensor configured to provide an indication on an exterior side of the structural element that a temperature within the enclosed space has exceeded a threshold. The indication may include an element that pops out of the heat sensor.
In another aspect, the disclosed embodiments provide a fire stairway access box configured to be installed in a structural element between a fire stairway and an interior hallway to introduce firefighting fluid into the interior hallway from the fire stairway. The access box includes: a first fireproof box configured to be inserted in an opening formed in the structural element from a stairway side, the first fireproof box having a hinged cover which opens into the stairway; and a second fireproof box configured to be inserted into the first fireproof box from a hallway side, the second fireproof box having a hinged cover which opens into the hallway. The second fireproof box includes a bracket attached to interior sides of the second fireproof box and a housing installed in the bracket. The housing includes: a first face surrounded by a first flange and having an opening in a central portion thereof, the opening being surrounded by a cylindrical socket extending from the first face in a first direction; a cylindrical body portion extending from the first face in the first direction; and a second face surrounded by a second flange and having an opening in a central portion thereof, the second flange extending from an end of the body portion distal from the first face so that the first face, the second face, and the body portion define an interior of the housing. The second fireproof box further includes a movable nozzle connector disposed within the interior of the housing. The nozzle connector has: a connection portion configured to receive an inserted fire hose nozzle in a locking connection; and a cylindrical nozzle stop portion extending from the connection portion, the nozzle stop portion being movably coupled within an interior of the socket of the first face.
Particular embodiments may include one or more of the following features.
The second fireproof box may further include an open portion configured to pass a fire hose from the stairway to the hallway. The second fireproof box may further include a fireproof blanket covering the open portion. The hinged cover of the second fireproof box may be configured to be opened by a release inside the second fireproof box. The access box may further include a heat sensor configured to provide an indication on a stairway side of the structural element that a temperature within the hallway has exceeded a threshold.
In another aspect, the disclosed embodiments provide a roof access unit configured to be installed in a roof of a structure to introduce firefighting fluid into an interior of the structure from the rooftop exterior. The access unit includes an outer housing configured to be inserted in an opening formed in the roof from an exterior side. The outer housing has: a bracket attached to an interior side of the outer housing and an inner housing installed in the bracket. The inner housing includes: a first face surrounded by a first flange and having an opening in a central portion thereof, the opening being surrounded by a cylindrical socket extending from the first face in a first direction; a cylindrical body portion extending from the first face in the first direction; and a second face surrounded by a second flange and having an opening in a central portion thereof, the second flange extending from an end of the body portion distal from the first face so that the first face, the second face, and the body portion define an interior of the inner housing. The outer housing further includes a movable nozzle connector disposed within the interior of the inner housing. The nozzle connector has: a connection portion configured to receive an inserted fire hose nozzle in a locking connection; and a cylindrical nozzle stop portion extending from the connection portion, the nozzle stop portion being movably coupled within an interior of the socket of the first face.
Particular embodiments may include one or more of the following features.
The bracket may include a threaded portion at a bottom end thereof for connecting an output pipe to the opening in the first face. The access unit may further include an output pipe installed in the threaded portion at the bottom end of the bracket and a stream director attached to a distal end of the output pipe and having a plurality of output orifices.
The above and other objects, effects features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following description of the embodiments thereof taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
The eyepiece and glass viewer panel 103 with viewing glass 103B and viewing lens 103C permits a panoramic view of the public hallway from inside the apartment when the device is not being used as a firefighting tool. This eyepiece and glass viewer panel 103 with viewing glass 1036 and viewing lens 103C fits centrally into inside/apartment side housing flange 102. The apartment side flange and housing contains an outside thread that protrudes through and past the door outer surface approximately one half inch. It is noted that the actual protrusion depends on the thickness of the door or wall and the embodiment is not limited by the door thickness or the amount of protrusion. That is, the device will generally fit doors that range in thickness from 1 to 2 inches, but the application to door thicknesses may be varied to less than or greater than this range as desired. The protrusion readily permits attachment of the outer threaded brass trim ring 105 and attached laminate one way convex glass or convex glass mirrored viewer 106. It should be noted that the overall dimensions of this embodiment can be modified for either or both functionality and or aesthetics.
To install the device 100, the user/firefighter/professional inserts the entire housing 102 constructed of a fire resistant metal alloy and all attached components therein, which include items 102, 103, 103A, 103B, 103C, 104, 104A, 107, 108, 109, 110, 110C, 110D, 111, and 114 as shown in
The operation of the device 100 will now be described in the event of a fire. Upon breaking the laminate one way convex glass or convex mirrored glass 106 on the hallway side of the entrance door, the firefighter inserts the main stream nozzle tip 113 from a fire hose into the door opening and pushes it against pivoting ball joint nozzle stop 104 causing a slight (e.g., 0.5 inch) forward movement of the pivoting nozzle stop striking, ejecting and breaking the eye piece and glass viewer panel 103 and its components on the inside/apartment side of the door. The main stream nozzle tip collar 113A will pass locking pins, locking balls or locking rings 107 and lock nozzle 113 in place. Once the decision to start water is made, the nozzle will be opened and the back pressure from the operation of the hose stream will cause the movable nozzle connection body guide/stop 110 and attached high heat resistant rubber seal 110C with inner slide sleeve 110D to be physically forced backward off the outer surface of inward socket guide/stop 114 permitting the forward nozzle stop bevel 104A to rest unimpeded on the inwardly rounded or slightly tapered edge of the inward socket guide/stop 114 allowing the connection to operate similar to that of a conventional ball and socket as seen in
During operation, the locking pins, locking balls or locking rings 107 will engage behind the main stream tip collar 113A securing the main stream-tip in place. Additionally, the spring release mechanism 108 with knurled locking collar is visible around the perimeter of the hole in the door on the hallway side. Once a decision is made to remove the main stream tip from the door and thus the quick connect stream applicator, the water supply is shut down. The firefighter will then depress the spring release mechanism 108 with knurled locking collar located on both sides of the main stream nozzle tip 113 from the hallway side with the thumb and index finger of one hand and push the locking collar 108 forward. This will permit the release of the locking pins, locking balls or locking rings 107 from the main stream tip collar 113A and the retraction of the main stream nozzle tip 113 from the door using the other hand.
It should be noted that, prior to breaking the glass and inserting the nozzle, the protruding shape of the laminate one way convex glass or convex mirrored glass viewer 106 on the hall side of the door permits the firefighter to simply slide his glove hand along the door when his vision is obscured due to fire conditions to identify the specific location for main stream nozzle tip 113 insertion. That is, in a heavy smoke condition a firefighter would simply slide his hand to the right of the laminate one way convex glass or convex mirrored glass viewer and feel for the protruding heat sensor 111 to confirm the correct location/apartment of the fire for hose stream application. In addition, if included, the heat sensor 111 will extend approximately 1 inch and glow red when temperatures within the apartment reach in excess of 150 degrees Fahrenheit or any other threshold temperature so desired. This will further assist firefighters in identifying the particular apartment where the fire is located.
The eyepiece and glass viewer panel 103 with viewing glass 103B and viewing lens 103C permits a panoramic view of the public hallway from inside the apartment when the device is not being used as a firefighting tool. This eye piece and glass viewer panel 103 with viewing glass 1036 and viewing lens 103C is held in place with (4) spring plungers 103A equally spaced around the perimeter of the inside ring of the panel as seen in
To install the device of
The operation of this embodiment will now be briefly described. Upon breaking this laminate one way convex glass or convex mirrored glass viewer 106 on the hallway side of the entrance door, the firefighter inserts the nozzle tip 113 into the door opening and pushes it through the center opening of the high heat resistant rubber guide/stop 110B located around the inside perimeter of the waterway resulting in the nozzle tip striking, ejecting and breaking the eye piece and glass viewer panel 103 with viewing glass 103B and viewing lens 103C on the inside/apartment side of the door. The nozzle will rest on the rubber guide and be in contact with it around its entire circumference permitting directional support, but in no way impede or hinder the quick removal of the nozzle, if necessary. Once the decision to start water is made, the nozzle will be opened and the stream directed to the limits described above. Once a decision is made to remove the nozzle, the water supply is shut down. The firefighter will simply retract the nozzle pulling it backward through the high heat resistant rubber guide/stop 110B. As in the above embodiment, it should be noted that, prior to breaking the glass and nozzle insertion, the protruding shape of the laminate one way convex glass or convex mirrored glass viewer 106 on the hall side of the door permits the firefighter to simply slide his glove hand along the door when his vision is obscured due to fire conditions to identify the specific location for nozzle tip 113 insertion. The heavy gauge high heat resistant rubber guide/stop 110B may be used instead of locking pins, locking balls or locking rings 107 to provide an accurate and durable fit/engagement with the nozzle 113.
The quick connect stream applicator device 227 and its surrounding construction is similar to device 100 described above. The quick connect stream applicator permits the nozzle of a fire hose to be quickly attached and detached. This securing bracket 224 is connected directly to the interior sides of the smaller metal box 222. Attached to bottom edge of securing bracket 224 is a fireproof blanket 224B of approximately 12×12 inches in size made of materials such as: silicone rubber glass fiber based cloth, ceramic fiber cloth, or Nomex Kevlar cloth. This fireproof blanket will have (2) approximately three-inch vertical cuts 224C spaced at four-inch intervals on the bottom edge of the blanket making for a better seal when fires hoses are inserted through the stairway box on the rollers. Fireproof blanket 224B will block smoke and heated fire gases that are present in the hallway from infiltrating into the stairway. The quick connect stream applicator assembly 227 will accept the main stream tip that is attached to the control nozzle (as seen in and previously disclosed in the first embodiment above and
Upon access to the box via the stairway side cover, heat sensor 211 will be visible within the evacuation assist box and will release (i.e. pop out) for heat conditions preferably in excess of 150 degrees Fahrenheit or any other threshold temperature so desired is reached on the interior hall side of this box. That is, the heat sensor operates in a manner similar to that of the first embodiment described above. Also present within the lower portion of this metal box 222 as seen in
The operation of device 227 in the stairway evacuation assist box will now briefly be described during use. First, firefighters will confirm or verify that there is a fire in a building equipped with fireproof door(s) separating the fire tower or public hall stairway from the interior public hallway and that there is a possibility of either firefighters or civilians being present on the stairway above the fire floor. Depending on heat conditions in the area of the stairway evacuation assist box, firefighters will recognize the floor level of the fire by means of the heat sensor contained therein as described in the first embodiment above. In addition and if possible, the firefighters will next assess the amount of smoke and heat present within the interior hall by quickly opening this fireproof door and then closing it to limit the amount of smoke and heat entering the stairway to the greatest degree possible.
Once it is confirmed that there is a significant amount of heat and smoke within the interior hall that is likely to hamper the safe egress of the occupants descending the public hall stairs, the first arriving engine company will open the front hinged cover 225 on the metal box by inserting a 1620 key into the keyway 223 of the locking mechanism. From the stairway side, they will then release the rear hinged cover 220 on the metal box 222 with the quick release latch 223A located on the inside top portion of the box and cover, insert the main stream nozzle tip 113 (that is attached to the controlling nozzle 113C) into the quick connect stream applicator 227 causing it to move forward and to then return to its original position.
Once the decision to start water is made, the control handle on the nozzle will be opened and the back pressure from the operation of the hose stream will cause the movable connection body nozzle guide/stop 210 and attached high heat resistant rubber seal 210C with the inner slide sleeve 210D as seen in
The hose roller 229 will provide a mechanical advantage to firefighters who are pulling the hose through the stairway evacuation assist box. A second hose line can then be passed over the same hose roller 229 with (3) independent rotating sections 229B facilitating the stretching of a second hose line, if needed, while maintaining the door separating the fire tower/stairway from the interior hall in a closed position until assured that no one is present on the stairway whose safety would be compromised.
Internal rapid placement housing assembly 210A will accept the nozzle on a typical fire hose and permits free movement of the nozzle control handle from the full off to the full on position while being operated within the box. Upon access to the box via the stairway side cover, heat sensor 211 will be visible within the evacuation assist box and will release (i.e. pop out) for heat conditions preferably in excess of 150 degrees or any other threshold temperature so desired is reached on the interior hall side of this box. That is, the heat sensor operates in a manner similar to that of the first embodiment described above. Also present within the lower portion of this metal box 222 is a metal hose roller 229, which is preferably 2 inches in diameter and divided into three independent rotating sections 229B and spans the approximate width of the metal box.
The operation of the modified device 227 in the stairway evacuation assist box will now briefly be described. First, firefighters will confirm or verify that there is a fire in a building equipped with fireproof door(s) separating the fire tower/public stairway from the interior public hallway and that there is a possibility of either firefighters or civilians being present on the stairway above the fire floor. If possible and optionally, the firefighters will next assess the amount of smoke and heat present within the interior hall by quickly opening this fireproof door and then closing it to limit the amount of smoke and heat entering the stairway to the greatest degree possible.
Once it is confirmed that there is a significant amount of heat and smoke within the interior hall that is likely to hamper the safe egress of the occupants descending the public hall stairs, the first arriving engine company will open the front hinged cover 225 on the metal evacuation assist box by inserting a 1620 key into the keyway 223 of the locking mechanism. It should be noted that the use of the evacuation assist box is especially critical in cases of “wind driven fires” since fires of this type have been known to reach blowtorch proportions in the public hallway. From the stairway side, they will then release the rear hinged cover 220 on the metal box 222 with the quick release latch 223A located on the inside top portion of the box and cover, insert the nozzle tip 113 through the center opening of the high heat resistant rubber guide/stop 210B, which is compressed within the rapid placement internal housing assembly 210A and located around the interior circumference of this opening. The nozzle will rest on the high heat resistant rubber guide/stop and be in contact with it around its entire circumference permitting directional support, but in no way impede or hinder the quick removal of the nozzle, if necessary.
Once the decision to start water is made, the nozzle will be opened and the stream directed to a maximum angle of approximately 60 degrees above or below the horizontal in a 360 degree radius thus permitting the hose stream to hit either the floor or ceiling within approximately 4 feet of the access box in which it is operated. Once a decision is made to remove the nozzle, the water supply is shut down. The firefighter will simply retract the nozzle pulling it backward through the rubber guide. Once the hose line is shut down it can then be passed over hose roller 229 located in the lower part of this metal box and firefighters can then quickly enter the interior hall via the door separating the fire tower from the interior hall and close said door behind them limiting the amount of smoke and heat in the public hall stairway, and then retrieve and operate the hose line that was passed through the metal box moving toward the seat of the fire.
The hose roller 229 will provide a mechanical advantage to firefighters who are pulling the hose through the stairway evacuation assist box. A second or third hose line can then be passed over an adjacent hose roller section 229B facilitating the stretching of the second or third hose line, if needed, while maintaining the door separating the fire tower from the interior hall in a closed position until assured that no one is present on the stairway whose safety would be compromised.
Firefighters engaged in firefighting operations when entering or exiting the fire floor in buildings equipped with this type of device shall, to the greatest degree possible, maintain the door separating the fire tower from interior hall in a closed position to ensure the safety of those present or likely to enter the attack stairway above the fire floor. This is especially critical in cases of a “wind driven fire” as described above.
Installation of this third embodiment further includes drilling ⅛ inch holes from the roof side through roof boards at the predrilled holes 336B located around the perimeter of roof flange 336A. Next, 4 one way screws of ¼ inch by 2¼ inch with retaining rubber washers are inserted through predrilled holes 336B in roof flange 336A and tightened until the flange is seated properly on the roof surface. Finally, a preferably lime green cover 336C having threads on its outer perimeter is screwed into roof flange 336A having corresponding mating threads on its inner surface along with attached high heat resistant O-ring 336E until the cover is tight and flush with the roof flange. This roof cover 336C will be flush with the roof flange 336A, water tight and finished with a lime green reflective type color to facilitate ready identification under fire conditions as seen in
In use, the firefighter will simply insert a 1620 key (typically carried by firefighters) into a keyway 337, turn the key counter clockwise ¼ turn and unlock cover 336C. Once the cover is unlocked the firefighter would then insert the fork end of a Halligan tool (also typically carried by firefighters) or similar tool into indented slots 336D on the surface of the lime green cover 336C and turn counter clockwise to remove the cover. Next, the main stream tip 313 is inserted into opening in the roof against pivoting ball joint nozzle stop 304. It is noted that this will result in a ½ inch downward movement of the main stream tip 313. At the same time, the main stream tip collar 313A will pass locking pins, locking balls or locking rings 307 and lock the nozzle in place. The spring release mechanism 308 with knurled locking collar is visible around the perimeter of the cylindrical metal housing 336. Next, the nozzle control handle will be opened and the back pressure from the operation of the hose stream will cause the movable connection body nozzle guide/stop 310 and attached high heat resistant rubber seal 310C to be physically forced backward off the outer surface of inward socket guide/stop 314 permitting the forward nozzle stop bevel 304A to rest unimpeded on the inwardly rounded or slightly tapered edge of the inward socket guide/stop 314 allowing the connection to operate similar to that of a conventional ball and socket (all similar to the first and second embodiments as described above).
During operation, the locking pins, locking balls or locking rings 307 will engage behind the main stream tip collar 313A securing the main stream-tip in place. Additionally, the spring release mechanism 308 with knurled locking collar is visible around the perimeter of the quick connect inner assembly. Unlike in the previous two embodiments, stem pipe 340 is fixedly attached via securing bracket 324 and covers the water exposing end of the quick connect stream assembly. The stem pipe 340 has a metal stream director 541 as shown in
Once a decision is made to remove the main stream tip 313 from the cylindrical metal housing in the roof, the water supply is shut down. Subsequently, the firefighter will depress the spring release mechanism 308 with knurled locking collar located on both sides of the main stream tip 313 with his thumb and index finger of one hand and push the locking collar 308 forward. This will permit the release of the locking pins, locking balls or locking rings 307 from the main stream tip collar 313A and the retraction of the main stream nozzle tip 313 from the cylindrical metal housing with the other hand.
It should be noted that for maximum effectiveness, stream director 541 as shown in
The installation of this variation of the third embodiment will also include drilling ⅛ inch holes from roof side through roof boards at the predrilled holes 336B located around the perimeter of roof flange 336A. Next, 4 one way screws of ¼ inch by 2¼ inch with retaining rubber washers are inserted through predrilled holes 336B in roof flange 336A and tightened until the flange is seated properly on the roof surface. Finally, a lime green cover 336C having threads on its outer perimeter is screwed into roof flange 336A having corresponding mating threads on its inner surface along with attached O-ring 336E until the cover is tight and flush with the roof flange. This roof cover 336C will be flush with the roof flange 336A, water tight and finished with a lime green reflective type color to facilitate ready identification under fire conditions as seen in
In use, the firefighter will simply insert a 1620 key (typically carried by firefighters) into a keyway 337, turn it counter clockwise ¼ turn and unlock the cover. Once the cover is unlocked the firefighter will then insert the fork end of a Halligan tool (typically carried by firefighters) or similar tool into indented slots 336D on the surface of the lime green roof cover 336C and turn counter clockwise to remove cover. Next, the nozzle 313 is inserted into the cylindrical metal housing 336 and through the center opening of high heat resistant rubber nozzle guide/stop 310B, which is compressed within internal housing assembly 336 and located around the interior circumference of this opening. The nozzle will rest on the high heat resistant rubber guide/stop 310B and be in contact with it around its entire circumference permitting directional support, but in no way impede or hinder the quick removal of the nozzle.
To remove the nozzle, the water supply is shut down and the nozzle simply retracted by pulling it backward through the high heat resistant rubber guide/stop 310B. Unlike in the previous discussed embodiments 1 and 2, stem pipe 340 is fixedly attached via waterway 336. Stem pipe 340 has a metal stream director 541 as shown in
It should be noted that for maximum effectiveness, stream director 541 as shown in
In those instances when a distributor 342 is used in lieu of stream director 541 the water pressure will cause the distributor to spin or rotate about the pipe extension 340 resulting in the disbursement of a powerful spinning hose stream in a circumference of approximately 25 feet within the space below the roof boards and above the top floor ceiling.
Once again it is noted that other cover colors and methods of applying the color and finishes to the cover are within the scope of the embodiment, but a green color cover is preferred because it is readily visible. This metal cover will contain a keyway 437 and two parallel indented slots 436D approximately 2 inches apart on its top surface as seen in
A brief description of the operation of this fourth embodiment will now be provided. In use, firefighters will simply insert the appropriate subway emergency key that they carry into this keyway, turn it counter clockwise ¼ turn and unlock the cover. Once this cover is unlocked the firefighter will then insert the fork end of a Halligan tool (also typically carried) or similar tool into indented slots 436D on the surface of the lime green cover 436C and turn counter clockwise and remove the cover. Next, they will insert the main stream tip 413 into the opening in the street against pivoting ball joint nozzle stop 404. It should be noted that this will result in a ½ inch downward movement of the main stream tip 413. At the same time, the main stream tip collar 413A will pass locking pins, locking balls or locking rings 407 and lock the nozzle in place.
Once the decision to start water is made, the controlling handle 113D on the controlling nozzle 113C will be opened and the back pressure from the operation of the hose stream will cause the movable connection body nozzle guide/stop 410 and attached high heat resistant rubber seal 410C to be physically forced backward off the outer surface of inward socket guide/stop 414 permitting the forward nozzle stop bevel 404A to rest unimpeded on the inwardly rounded or slightly tapered edge of the inward socket guide/stop 414 allowing the connection to operate similar to that of a conventional ball and socket. During operation, the locking pins, locking balls or locking rings 407 will engage behind the main stream tip collar 413A securing the main stream-tip in place. Additionally, the spring release mechanism with knurled locking collar 408 is visible around the perimeter of the quick connect inner assembly. Like the previous third embodiment, stem pipe 440 is fixedly attached to the securing bracket 424 and covers the water exposing end of the quick connect assembly.
The stem pipe 440 has the capability of accepting optional metal stream director 541 as shown in
To remove the main stream tip 413 from the cylindrical metal housing in the street, the water supply will be shut down. The firefighter will then depress spring release mechanism with knurled locking collar 408 located on both sides of the main stream tip 413 with the thumb and index finger of one hand and push the locking collar 408 forward. This will permit the release of the locking pins, locking balls or locking rings 407 from the main stream tip collar 413A and the retraction of the main stream tip 413 from the cylindrical metal housing with the other hand.
If fire conditions are not apparent when sidewalk cover 436C is removed and prior to hose nozzle connection, an opening approximately two (2) inches in diameter will exist. This opening will permit: 1) the establishment of voice communications with those who may be trapped or incapacitated in the subway or tunnel below, 2) afford first responders the means by which they can obtain air samples in order to detect and identify the presence of chemical or biological agents therein and, 3) to provide a means by which first responders can introduce a fresh air supply into the subway station or tunnel, for the benefit of those individuals who may be trapped or incapacitated below and in need of fresh air. This device also facilitates ventilation of the involved area or space. This is possible in all of the embodiments since a tight seal is accomplished at the point of connection between the main stream nozzle tip 413 and the quick connect coupling's high heat resistant rubber seal 410C. With the main stream nozzle tip 413 attached to the controlling nozzle 113C as seen in
The installation of the variation of this fourth embodiment also includes drilling ¼ inch by 2¼ inch deep holes from street side into the sidewalk or street at the predrilled holes 436B located around the perimeter of the flange 436A using the flange as a template. Next, the entire cylindrical metal housing is removed with attached flange. Lead concrete shields or anchors are then inserted into the previously drilled holes. The cylindrical metal housing is then reinstalled lining up the holes in the flange with the lead concrete shields and then ¼ inch by 2¼ inch one way screws or bolts with rubber retaining washers attached are inserted through predrilled holes 436B in flange 436A and the screws tightened until the flange is seated properly on the sidewalk or street. Finally, a lime green cover 436C having threads on its outer perimeter is screwed into sidewalk flange 436A having corresponding mating threads on its inner surface along with attached high heat resistant O-ring 436E is placed into the flange 436A. This cover will be flush with the flange, water tight and finished with a lime green reflective type color to facilitate ready identification under fire conditions.
Once again it is noted that other cover colors and methods of applying the color and finishes to the cover are within the scope of the embodiment, but a green color cover is preferred because it is readily visible. This metal cover will contain a keyway 437 and two parallel indented slots 436D approximately 2 inches apart on its top surface as seen in
A brief description of the operation of this variation of the fourth embodiment will now be provided. In use, firefighters will simply insert the appropriate subway emergency key that they carry into this keyway, turn it counter clockwise ¼ turn and unlock the cover. Once the cover is unlocked firefighters will then insert the fork end of a Halligan tool (also typically carried) or similar tool into indented slots 436D on the surface of the lime green cover 436C and turn counter clockwise and remove the cover. Next, they will insert the main stream tip 413 into the cylindrical metal housing 436 and through the center opening of high heat resistant rubber nozzle guide/stop 410B, which is compressed within internal housing assembly 436 and located around the interior circumference of this opening. The nozzle will rest on the high heat resistant rubber guide/stop 410B and be in contact with it around its entire circumference permitting directional support, but in no way impede or hinder the quick removal of the nozzle.
To remove the nozzle, the water supply is shut down. The firefighter will simply retract the nozzle pulling it backward through the high heat resistant rubber guide/stop 410B. Like the previous third embodiment, stem pipe 440 is fixedly attached to the securing bracket 424. The stem pipe 440 has the capability of accepting optional metal stream director 541 as shown in
If fire conditions are not apparent when sidewalk cover 436C is removed and prior to hose nozzle insertion, an opening approximately 2 inches in diameter will exist. This opening will permit: 1) the establishment of voice communications with those trapped or incapacitated in the subway or tunnel below, 2) the means by which first responders can obtain air samples in order to detect and identify the presence of chemical or biological agents therein and, 3) to provide a means by which first responders can introduce a fresh air supply into the subway station or, tunnel to the benefit of those individuals who may be trapped or incapacitated below and in need of fresh air.
The installation of this fifth embodiment also includes drilling ¼ inch by 2¼ inch deep holes into the wall or floor from the exterior side at the predrilled holes 536B located around the perimeter of the flange 536A using the flange as a template. The entire cylindrical metal housing with attached flange is then removed and lead concrete shields or anchors are inserted into the previously drilled holes. It is noted that other types of wall anchors can be used to attach the flange to the wall, but shields or anchors are preferred. Next, the cylindrical metal housing is reinstalled lining up the predrilled holes in the flange with the lead concrete shields and then ¼ inch by 2¼ inch one way screws with rubber retaining washers are inserted through predrilled holes 536B in flange 536A and the screws tightened until the flange is seated properly on the wall or floor surface. Finally, a lime green cover 536C having threads on its outer perimeter is screwed into flange 536A having corresponding mating threads on its inner surface along with attached high heat resistant O-ring 536E is placed into the flange 536A. This cover will be flush with the flange and finished with a lime green reflective type color to facilitate ready identification under fire conditions as seen in
Once again it is noted that other cover colors and methods of applying the color and finishes to the cover are within the scope of the embodiment, but a green color is preferred because it is readily visible. This metal cover will contain a keyway 537 and two indented slots 536D approximately 2 inches apart on its top surface as seen in
A brief description of the operation of this fifth embodiment will now be provided. In use, the firefighter will simply insert a 1620 key (typically carried by firefighters) into a keyway 537, turn it counter clockwise ¼ turn and unlock the cover. Once the cover is unlocked the firefighter will then insert the fork end of a Halligan tool (also typically carried) or similar tool into indented slots 536D on the surface of the lime green cover 536C and turn counter clockwise and remove cover 536C. Upon turning the lime green cover 536C counter clockwise with the fork end of the Halligan tool attachment rod 536F will back out of female coupling 536G that is brazed to the interior side of outer metal cover 543, thus permitting outer metal cover 543 to detach and fall to the floor. At the same time attachment rod 536F and lime green cover 536C will be removed from the opening in the wall or floor as a single unit. Next, the main stream tip 513 is inserted into opening in the wall or floor against pivoting ball joint nozzle stop 504. It should be noted that this will result in a ½ inch forward movement of the main stream tip 513. At the same time, the main stream tip collar 513A will pass locking pins, locking balls or locking rings 507 and lock the nozzle in place. Once the decision to start water is made, the control handle 113D on the controlling nozzle 113C will be opened and the back pressure from the operation of the hose stream will cause the movable connection body nozzle guide/stop 510 and attached high heat resistant rubber seal 510C to be physically forced backward off the outer surface of inward socket guide/stop 514 permitting the forward nozzle stop bevel 504A to rest unimpeded on the inwardly rounded or slightly tapered edge of the inward socket guide/stop 514 allowing the connection to operate similar to that of a conventional ball and socket as seen in
Once a decision is made to remove the main stream tip 513 from the cylindrical metal housing in the wall or floor the water supply is shut down. The firefighter will depress the spring release mechanism 508 with knurled locking collar located on both sides of the main stream tip 513 with the thumb and index finger of one hand and push the locking collar 508 forward. This will permit the release of the locking pins, locking balls or locking rings 507 from the main stream tip collar 513A and the retraction of the main stream tip 513 from the cylindrical metal housing with the other hand.
The installation of the variation of this fifth embodiment also includes drilling ¼ inch by 2¼ inch deep holes into the wall or floor from the exterior side at the predrilled holes 536B located around the perimeter of the flange 536A using the flange as a template. The entire cylindrical metal housing with attached flange is then removed and lead concrete shields or anchors are inserted into the previously drilled holes. It is noted that other types of wall anchors can be used to attach the flange to the wall, but shields or anchors are preferred. Next, the cylindrical metal housing is reinstalled lining up the predrilled holes in the flange with the lead concrete shields and then ¼ inch by 2¼ inch one way screws with rubber retaining washers attached are inserted through predrilled holes 536B in flange 536A and the screws tightened until the flange is seated properly on the wall or floor surface. Finally, a lime green cover 536C having threads on its outer perimeter is screwed into flange 536A having corresponding mating threads on its inner surface along with attached high heat resistant O-ring 536E which is placed into the flange 536A. This cover will be flush with the flange and finished with a lime green reflective type color to facilitate ready identification under fire conditions.
Once again it is noted that other cover colors and methods of applying the color and finishes to the cover are within the scope of the embodiment, but a green color cover is preferred because it is readily visible. This metal cover will contain a keyway 537 and two parallel indented slots 536D approximately 2 inches apart on its top surface. Also, permanently affixed to cover 536C is a brazed, hex shaped, ⅜ inch attachment rod 536F, which will extend completely through the approximate center of the threaded stem pipe extension 540 as well as the center orifice of metal stream director 541. The opposite end of attachment rod 536F will be screwed into a threaded, female coupling 536G that is brazed to the interior side of outer metal cover 543 just past the leading edge of the threaded pipe extension 540 or optional stream director 541. The outer metal cover 543 will be secure, water tight, decorative in appearance and flush with the interior wall surface or ceiling of the space being protected. A brief description of the operation of this fifth embodiment will now be provided.
In use, the firefighter will simply insert a 1620 key (typically carried by firefighters) into a keyway 537, turn it counter clockwise ¼ turn and unlock the cover. Once this cover is unlocked the firefighter will then insert the fork end of a Halligan tool (also typically carried by firefighters) or similar tool into indented slots 536D on the surface of the lime green cover 536C and turn counter clockwise and remove the cover. Upon turning the lime green cover 536C counter clockwise with the fork end of the Halligan tool attachment rod 536F will back out of female coupling 536G that is brazed to the interior side of outer metal cover 543, thus permitting outer metal cover 543 to detach and fall to the floor. At the same time attachment rod 536F and lime green cover 536C will be removed from the opening in the wall or floor as a single unit. Next, the main stream tip 513 is inserted into the opening in cylindrical metal housing 536 and then passed through the center opening of high heat resistant rubber nozzle guide/stop 510B. This high heat resistant rubber nozzle guide/stop is compressed within internal housing assembly 536 and located around the interior circumference of this opening. The nozzle will rest on the high heat resistant rubber guide/stop 510B and be in contact with it around its entire circumference permitting directional support, but in no way impede or hinder the quick removal of the nozzle. Once a decision is made to remove the nozzle, the water supply is shut down. The firefighter will simply retract the nozzle by pulling it backward through the high heat resistant rubber guide/stop 510B. As in the previous embodiments, stem pipe 540 is fixedly attached to securing bracket 524. However, it should be noted that since the nozzle is moveable in this embodiment in all directions the direction of this solid water stream within the larger attached stem pipe 540 will have a notable advantage, which will permit this solid stream to be more accurately directed toward the angular holes in the stream director 541 and thus afford greater reach and control of the stream direction being sought.
Upon retraction of the nozzle the stem pipe opening with or without optional attached metal stream director 541 will be sufficient to maintain a fresh air supply, air quality assessment, camera insertion and also permit ventilation of the involved area.
While various descriptions of the present invention are described above, it should be understood that the various features of each embodiment can be used singly or in any combination thereof. Therefore, this invention is not to be limited to only specifically preferred embodiments depicted herein. Additionally, it should be noted that the invention's overall dimensions can be modified and that component(s) within preferred embodiments can be changed, made optional or removed for functionality and operational efficiency. Further, it should be understood that variations and modifications within the spirit and scope of the invention may occur to those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains.
This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/545,712, which was filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office on Aug. 20, 2019, which is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/259,475, which was filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office on Jan. 28, 2019, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/446,757, which was filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office on Mar. 1, 2017, filed as application No. PCT/US2016/052854 on Sep. 21, 2016, which claimed priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/221,496, entitled “Coupling for Fire Hose,” filed Sep. 21, 2015, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
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| Number | Date | Country | |
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| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 16545712 | Aug 2019 | US |
| Child | 16929845 | US | |
| Parent | 16259475 | Jan 2019 | US |
| Child | 16545712 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 15446757 | US | |
| Child | 16259475 | US |
