CA1241517A - Pressure relief panels and louvers - Google Patents
Pressure relief panels and louversInfo
- Publication number
- CA1241517A CA1241517A CA000532372A CA532372A CA1241517A CA 1241517 A CA1241517 A CA 1241517A CA 000532372 A CA000532372 A CA 000532372A CA 532372 A CA532372 A CA 532372A CA 1241517 A CA1241517 A CA 1241517A
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- panel
- magnet
- assembly
- striker
- frame
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired
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Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
- E04B1/62—Insulation or other protection; Elements or use of specified material therefor
- E04B1/92—Protection against other undesired influences or dangers
- E04B1/98—Protection against other undesired influences or dangers against vibrations or shocks; against mechanical destruction, e.g. by air-raids
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T292/00—Closure fasteners
- Y10T292/11—Magnetic
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Architecture (AREA)
- Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Electromagnetism (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Conveying And Assembling Of Building Elements In Situ (AREA)
- Building Environments (AREA)
Abstract
Inventor: KENNETH H. BETTS
Title: PRESSURE RELIEF PANELS AND LOUVERS
ABSTRACT OF THE INVENTION
A pressure relief panel assembly for buildings in which explosions may occur includes a panel pivotally coupled to a frame for movement between a normal closed position and an open position and a calibrated magnet and striker set for holding the panel in its closed position.
The magnet has a maximum holding force substantially in excess of a known force to which it is subjected at a predetermined blow-out pressure and a striker has secured thereto at least one non-magnetic shim defining a face for contact with the magnet. The shim thickness is selected to reduce the effective holding force exerted on the striker by the magnet, to the said known force.
Title: PRESSURE RELIEF PANELS AND LOUVERS
ABSTRACT OF THE INVENTION
A pressure relief panel assembly for buildings in which explosions may occur includes a panel pivotally coupled to a frame for movement between a normal closed position and an open position and a calibrated magnet and striker set for holding the panel in its closed position.
The magnet has a maximum holding force substantially in excess of a known force to which it is subjected at a predetermined blow-out pressure and a striker has secured thereto at least one non-magnetic shim defining a face for contact with the magnet. The shim thickness is selected to reduce the effective holding force exerted on the striker by the magnet, to the said known force.
Description
- 2 - 4 it FIELD OE THE INVENTION:
This invention relates generally to pressure relief or "blow-out" panels and the like, intended for use in buildings in which there is a risk of explosion.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:
In buildings such as laboratories, testing facili-ties and manufacturing plants in which explosions or un-wanted pressures may occur, it is conventional to incorpor-ate in the roof and/or walls of the building, panels that will blow-out to relieve the pressure that would result from an over-pressure condition inside the building. This is necessary to prevent the building from collapsing and to minimize injury to persons inside the building.
The blow-out panels are typically retained by mechanical devices such as shear bolts that are designed to break under a predetermined pressure and allow the panel to blow out. A difficulty with this type of system is that it is difficult to adjust accurately the pressure at which a particular panel will blow-out. In addition, as the system ages, the pressure at which blow-out will occur tends to increase. Further, when a panel has blown out, part or all of the panel or at least the shear bolts are destroyed and must be replaced.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART:
The following United States patents were considered in the preparation of the present application:
This invention relates generally to pressure relief or "blow-out" panels and the like, intended for use in buildings in which there is a risk of explosion.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:
In buildings such as laboratories, testing facili-ties and manufacturing plants in which explosions or un-wanted pressures may occur, it is conventional to incorpor-ate in the roof and/or walls of the building, panels that will blow-out to relieve the pressure that would result from an over-pressure condition inside the building. This is necessary to prevent the building from collapsing and to minimize injury to persons inside the building.
The blow-out panels are typically retained by mechanical devices such as shear bolts that are designed to break under a predetermined pressure and allow the panel to blow out. A difficulty with this type of system is that it is difficult to adjust accurately the pressure at which a particular panel will blow-out. In addition, as the system ages, the pressure at which blow-out will occur tends to increase. Further, when a panel has blown out, part or all of the panel or at least the shear bolts are destroyed and must be replaced.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART:
The following United States patents were considered in the preparation of the present application:
3,453,777 Reilly 1,254,517 Lumm ~L2415~
3,521,546 Day 3,539,214 Fisher 3,864,881 Wolf 4,194,771 Biggs 3,258,890 Dirkse 2,471,634 Mark
3,521,546 Day 3,539,214 Fisher 3,864,881 Wolf 4,194,771 Biggs 3,258,890 Dirkse 2,471,634 Mark
4,276,725 Ash 4,361,985 DeMarco 4,327,241 Obsenchain 3,557,497 Schafer 4,269,376 Haux 3,730,577 Shanok These patents show various examples of prior art pressure relief panels. For example, the Wolf patent (3,864,881) shows an example of a system in which the entire panel blows out and cannot be re-sealed. Reilly (3,453,777) discloses a pressure venting window panel assembly. Ash (4,276,725) shows a pressure relief panel that is held closed by sealing tape which must be replaced each time the panel blows out. Louvers which will be forced open under pressure are shown by the Day and Lumm patents (3,521,546 and 1,254,517 respectively).
The patents to Fisher and Biggs ~3,539,214 and 4,194,771) disclose magnetic door catches.
Patent number 2,471,624 (Mark) shows a magnetic seal for use in refrigerators and the like.
An object of the present invention is to provide an improved pressure relief panel assembly which can be accurately set to blow-out at a predetermined pressure and which can also be re-closed or self closed and sealed after use. A further object is to provide a louver assembly which can also perform these functions. A still further object is to provide a method of making a panel release means for a ~L~41517 pressure relief panel or louver assembly.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:
In one aspect, the invention provides a pressure relief panel assembly comprising a frame, a panel pivotally coupled to the frame for movement between a normal closed position and an open position and panel release means normally holding the panel in its closed position but adapted to release when the panel is subjected to a predetermined blow-out pressure. The panel release means includes a calibrated magnet and striker set, one of which is carried by the panel and the other of which is adapted to be secured to fixed structure, e.g. the frame. The magnet has a maximum holding force substantially in excess of a known force to which it is subjected at the said predetermined blow-out pressure and the striker has secured thereto at least one non-magnetic shim defining a face for contact with the magnet. The shim thickness is selected to reduce the effective holding force excerted on the striker by the magnet, to the said known force.
As noted previously, magnetic catches for doors have previously been proposed. However, they have not been suitable for use with pressure relief panels because the magnetic forces vary substantially from one magnet to another, e.g. by as much as plus or minus 25 to 30~. In accordance with the invention, the magnetic holding force is reduced by one or more shims to a predetermined force cor-responding blow-out pressure of the panel.
In another aspect of the panel, the panel assembly _ 5 _ 1~4i~
includes multiple panels forming louvers that are designed to blow-out at a predetermined pressure but are normally held closed by the panel release means of the invention.
A still further aspect provides a method of making a panel release means, comprising the steps of:
providing a magnet capable of excerting a holding force substantially in excess of the holding force required by the panel release means;
providing a striker for cooperation with the magnet; and, Securing to the striker at least one non-magnetic shim defining a face of the striker for contact with the magnet, the shim thickness being selected to reduce the effective holding force of the magnet to said required force.
Still further aspects of the invention provide a jig for use in performing the method, and a test rig for determining the blow-out pressure of an installed panel.
BRIEF DESCRIPTON OF THE DRAWINGS:
In order that the invention may be more clearly understood, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings which illustrated a number of preferred embodiments to the invention by way of example, and in which:
Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a typical building provided with arrays of pressure relief wall panels;
Fig. 2 is a front elevational view of part of one of the panel arrays shown in Fig. l;
Fig. 2a shows one of the panels separate from the array;
Fig. 3 is a vertical sectional view on line 3-3 of Fig. 2.
Fig. 4 is a horizontal sectional view generally on line 4-4 of Fig. 3 taken at a corner of the building to show the panel arrangement at that corner;
Fig. 5 is a diagrammatic illustration somewhat similar to Fig. 3 but showing a strut arrangement for cushioning opening of the panel;
10Fig. 6 is a view similar to Fig. 3 showing an alternative form of panel;
Fig. 7 is a sectional view on line 7-7 of Fig. 6;
Fig. 8 is a vertical sectional view through a pressure relief louver assembly in accordance with a further embodiment of the invention;
Fig. 9 is a diagrammatic elevational view of an operating linkage for the louver assembly;
Fig. 10 is an elevational view generally in the direction of the arrows denoted 10-10 in Fig. 8;
20Fig. 11 is a perspective illustration of a ; calibration jig for use in making the panel and louver assemblies illustrated previously;
Fig. 12 is a side elevational view of the jig of Fig. 11 in a closed position;
25Fig. 13 is an enlarged view of the part of Fig. 12 circled at A; and Fig. 14 is a perspective view of a test rig for determining the blow-out pressure of an installed panel.
_ 7 _ ~4~5~7 DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS:
Referring first to Fig. 1, a building i5 generally denoted by reference to 20 and includes a section 22, for example, a laboratory section, in which there is a risk of explosions. The walls of section 22 are formed by arrays 24 of pressure relief or "blow-out" wall panels 26. Fig. 2 shows part of one of the arrays 24 and Fig. pa shows a typical one of the panels 26 removed from the array.
Referring to these views, the basic structure of the building is generally indicated by reference numeral 28 and includes columns 30 and cross members 32 extending between the columns. Pressure relief wall panel assemblies 34 including the panels 26 are mounted between each vertically adjacent pair of cross members 32.
Fig. 3 is a vertical sectional view through a typical one of the wall panel assemblies 34 and will now be described as representative of all of the wall panel assemblies. The assembly includes a frame 36 which surrounds the actual panel 26 and which is connected to the building cross members 32 by four clips or brackets two of which are indicated at 38 in Fig. 3. Each panel assembly is in fact secured by four such clips. By way of example, the four clips that hold the panel assembly 34 at the top right hand corner of the array are shown in Fig. 2. It can be seen from this view that two clips 38 aLe provided at the top corners of the assembly and that two similar brackets are provided along the bottom edge, but inset slightly from the corners.
P241~
Referring back to Fig. 3, frame 36 is made up of four frame members each in the form of an aluminum extrusion of generally channel shape in cross-section. The extrusion forming the top frame member is denoted by reference numeral 40 and has a base 40a and front and rear limbs 40b and 40c respectively. The bottom frame member is generally denoted 42 and has a somewhat different cross-sectional shape, formed by a base 42a and limbs 42b and 42c defining with the base a channel facing downwardly away from the panel. Limb 42c is extended inwardly as indicated at 42d behind the panel. Extrusions of the same cross sectional shape as extrusion 42 are used as the side members of the frame; one of those side members is visible at 44 in Fig. 4.
The frame support clips 38 (see Fig. 3) are bolted to the frame itself through the inner limbs of the side and bottom members of the frame. One of the bolts that engages the inner limb of the bottom frame member 42 is visible at 46 in Fig. 3.
Panel 26 is pivotally coupled to the frame 36 for movement between the normally closed position in which it is shown in full lines in Fig. 3 and an open position indicated partly in ghost outline at B in Fig. 3. In this embodiment, the panel is pivotally supported adjacent its upper end on a pivot shaft 48 that extends through the panel and then outwardly through the side members of frame 36. Fig. 4 shows an end portion of shaft 48 extending through frame side member 44 and is typical of the mounting of the pivot shafts of all of the panels. The shaft is held stationary with respect to the panel by a set bolt 50 carried by the panel. The end portion of shaft 48 then extends through a complementary opening in frame member 44 and is journaled in a flanged NYLON bushing 52 which is pressed into member 44.
Fig. 4 also shows the arrangement of two adjacent pressure relief panel assemblies at a corner of the building. A second panel assembly similar to the one that has just been described is shown in ghost outline at 34' prime. An inner angle section member 56 connects the side frame members of the two panel assemblies and supports panel assembly 34' from the building cross member 32 by way of clip 38. A,t the outer side of the corner, an angle section trim member 58 extends between the outer limbs of the respective frame side members 44 and 44'.
It will be seen from Figs. 3 and 4 that the panel itself includes a peripheral frame 60 formed by four channel section members that extend around the four sides of the panel. Respective inner and outer "skins" 62 and 64 of the panel define an internal space that is filled with insulation 66. Frame 60 embraces the composite structure formed by the inner and outer skins 62 and 64 and the insulation 66. The extrusion from which the frame is formed includes an undercut slot 68 that receives a seal member 70 at the outer side of the panel. Similar seal members 70 extend along the top and bottom edges (Fig. 3) and down both sides of the panel (as shown for one side in Fig. 4). The seal members 70 are bonded together at corner joints. Along the sides and bottom edge, the seal members 70 overlie the ~241~jl7 corresponding members of frame 36 when panel is closed, while along the top edge, the seal member extends inside the outer limb 40b of frame member 40 and the limb is angled outwardly to some extent to form a water run-off. This seal arrangement prevents damage to the seals as the panel 26 moves from its closed position to its open position.
Additional weather seals are provided around the perimeter of the inner side of the panel and take the form of magnetic seals denoted by reference to numeral 72.
Again, seals are provided along the top, bottom and side edges of the panel and the seals are bonded together at corner joints. The top and bottom edge seals are seen in Fig. 3 while one of the side edge seals is visible in Fig.
4. Referring to the top edge seal shown in Fig. 3 as typical of all four seals, it will be seen that the seal comprises a flexible strip magnet 74 carried by a flexible rubber bellows 76 from the panel, and a co-operating magnetically attractible plate 78 carried by the frame 36.
The bellows 76 is mechanically attached to the inner limb of the panel frame member 60 (e.g. by adhesive) while the plate 78 is retained in a slot 80 formed in the extrusion that forms the top member 40 of frame 36. When the panel moves to its open position, the seal will separate at the inner face between the magnet 74 and plate 78; the magnet 74 and bellows 76 will then move with the panel as shown in ghost outline at 72. When the panel returns to its closed position, the seal will automatically close due to the magnetic attraction between magnet 74 and plate 78. The , 24~ 7 seal arrangement is essentially identical at the bottom and side edges of the panel.
Panel assembly 34 also includes panel release means generally indicated by reference numeral 82, for normally holding the panel in its closed position while permitting the panel to release and move to its open position when subjected to a predetermined blow-out pressure from within the building. The panel release means takes the form of a calibrated magnet and striker set one of which is carried by the panel and the other of which is fixed. In this embodiment, the magnet is fixed and is denoted by reference numeral 84 and the striker plate is indicated at 86 and moves with the panel. As will be described in more detail later, the magnet has a maximum holding force substantially in excess of a known force when a predetermined blow-out pressure is exerted on the panel. A
non-magnetic shim 88 is secured to the outer face of the striker and in effect defines the face that contacts the magnet. The thickness of the shim is selected during manufacture of the panel release means to reduce the ; effective holding force exerted on the striker 86 by the magnet 84 to the known force at which the panel should release. In other words, the magnet and striker set 84, 86 is precisely calibrated to release the panel at a predeter-mined blow-out pressure.
Figs. 11 to 13 illustrate the operation of calibrating the magnet/striker set and will be described later.
Continuing for the moment with the description of Fig. 3, magnet 84 is a commercially available permanent magnet and is carried by a support bracket 90 from a further bracket 92 that is interposed between and bolted to the bottom and side members of frame 36. Fig. 2 shows the panel release means 82 for one of the panels, and it will seen the magnet/striker assembly is positioned adjacent to the bottom of the panel approximately centrally of its width.
Referring back to Fig. 3, the striker 86 comprises a magnetically attractible plate that is secured to the rear face of panel 26 with the interposition of an extrusion 96 that effectively sets out the striker plate from the back of the panel. The striker plate is in fact bolted to extrusion 96 by a bolt indicated at 98 that passes through a NYLON
washer 100 at the back of the striker plate and is fitted with a nut 98a inside the extrusion. Washer 100 allows the plate to 7'float" somewhat for ensuring proper face-to-face engagement with the magnet. Extrusion 96 is slightly longer than the width of the striker plate and is secured to the panel outwardly of the striker plate by two bolts that are threaded into a relatively substantial angle bracket 102 inside the panel. Bracket 102 acts to stiffen the panel at the point of attachment to the striker. Part of the shank of one of the attachment bolts for extrusion 96 is visible at 103. The bottom limb of stiffner 102 may be connected to the bottom frame member of the panel by a bolt indicated in dotted lines at 104.
~LZ415~'~
In manufacturing a pressure relief paneL assembly of the form provided by the invention, a magnet/striker set is calibrated so that the panel assembly in which the set is incorporated will release when the panel is subjected to a predetermined pressure from within the building. magnet is selected having a rated holding force substantially in excess of that which will be required in the panel assembly.
It has been found that magnets having the same rated holding force can vary as much as plus or minus 25 to 30% from the rated force. For example, a magnet rated as having a holding force of 400 lbs. might in fact only be capable of holding 280 lbs. or could hold 520 lbs. Selection is therefore undertaken on the basis that the magnet will have more than adequate holding power even if its holding power is 30% less than the rated power. For example, a 400 lb.
rated magnet might be selected for use in a panel in which the magnet is required to exert a maximum of, say 250 lbs.
holding force. A selected magnet is then matched with a striker plate and the magnet/striker plate set is calibrated to the exact holding force required.
Figs. 11 to 13 show a jig used in effecting this calibration, and will now be described.
Referring first to Fig. 11, the jig itself is generally denoted by reference numeral 106 and includes a base 108 to which is secured a fixed arm 110 for carrying a striker plate assembly (denoted 112), and a pivoted arm 114 for carrying the magnet. The magnet is denoted 84 to correspond with Fig. 3 and the striker plate itself is - 14 - ~2~
denoted 86 and is carried by extrusion 96. Bolt 98 attaches striker plate 86 to extrusion 96 as shown in Fig. 3. Extrusion 96 is bolted to arm 110 by two bolts llOa as shown in Fig.
13 so that the striker plate assembly is fixed to the arm.
Brackets 116 at the sides of the arm accept the extrusion mounting bolts llOa.
The arm 114 that carries the magnet is pivoted to the end of the fixed arm 110 remote from the striker plate assembly 112 by brackets 118 of a length selected so that the two arms are essentially parallel when magnet 84 is in engagement with striker plate 86. The distance of the striker plate from the pivot axis of arm 114 (denoted 120) corresponds with the distance of the striker plate from the axis of pivot shaft 48 (Fig. 3) in the installed panel assembly.
An hydraulic cylinder 122 is mounted ajacent the outer end of the pivoted arm 114 with its axis at right angles to the pivot axis of the arm. The cylinder has a push rod 124 that extends through the arm and is of a length so that its outer end engages the top surface of the fixed arm 110 when the magnet is in engagement with the striker plate. An hydraulic pump 126 having ar. actuating handle 128 is fixed to the base 108 adjacent the fixed arm 110 and has an outlet connected by a hose 130 to the cylinder 122. A
pressure gauge 134 is installed in the hose 130.
At the beginning of the calibration operation, the striker plate and magnet are secured to the respective arms as shown in Fig. 11 and the magnet is then brought into ....
41~
engagement with the striker plate by lowering arm 114 as shown in Fig. 12. The push rod 124 of cylinder 122 is then extended by operating the hand pump 126 until sufficient force is exerted to cause the magnet to release from the striker plate. The pressure at which the release occurs is indicated by gauge 134 and is recorded and converted to magnet release force. One or more non-magnetic shims (in this case of brass) are then added to the top surface of the striker plate and the process of forcing the arms apart by means of the cylinder 122 is repeated using different shim thicknesses until the magnet releases at a force corres-ponding to the force at which the panel is to release in the installed pressure relief panel assembly. Fig. 13 shows a single shim 136 on the top surface of striker plate 86.
When the required shim thickness has been determined, or more shims of the required thickness are then bonded to the striker plate 86 using an appropriate adhesive. The striker plate and magnet are then a matched, calibrated set and are appropriately identified as such and are removed from the jig.
Fig. 14 shows a test rig that can be used to determine the pressure at which a particular panel will release in situ (i.e. after the panel has been installed in the building). In Fig. 14, part of a panel array is shown in ghost outline at 24 and the panel to be tested is denoted 26. The frame surrounding that panel is denoted 36. Protru-ding outwardly from the frame adjacent opposite sides are two horizonal lugs 138 having respective vertical openings 140. The lugs 138 are permanent parts of the frame 36 that have not been shown in previous views.
The test rig itself includes a frame 142 having pins 144 that are positioned to fit into the openings 140 in the lugs 136. A cross member 146 at the bottom of the frame bears against the building below the lugs 136. The frame also includes arms 148 that extend outwardly from the building when the rig is installed and that are joined at their outer ends by an upper cross member 150. Cross member lS0 carries an hydraulic cylinder 152 that is oriented with its axis at right angles to and in alignment with the bottom frame member 60 of the panel 26. Cylinder 152 has a piston rod 154 to the outer end of which is connected a chain 156 having at its outer end a hook 158 that engages an eye 160 at the centre of frame member 60.
Frame cross member 150 carries a hand pump 162 similar to the pump 126 of Fig. 11. The pump has an operating handle 162 and an outlet that is connected by a hose 164 to cylinder 152. A pressure gauge 166 is connected in hose 164. The hose 164 is connected to the cylinder 152 so that the piston rod is retracted when hose 164 is under pressure.
To test the release pressure of a particular panel, the rig 142 is coupled to the installed panel assembly by engaging the pins 144 with the lugs 138 as described previously and the chain 156 is connected to the eyelet 160 by means of hook 158. Hand pump 160 is then operated until the pull exerted on the panel via chain 156 241~
causes the panel to release. The pressure at which thisoccurs is indicated by gauge 166 and is recorded and converted to panel release force.
Rig 142 has been designed specifically for panel assemblies of the form provided by the invention but could, in principle, be used to test the release pressure of panel assemblies of other forms. In the case of a panel assembly of the form provided by the invention, it would be possible to recalibrate the magnet/striker set if the release pressure is not found to be within specifications.
Figs. 5 to 10 illustrate pressure relief panel assemblies in accordance with other embodiments of the invention. These assemblies all incorporate calibrated magnet/striker sets. Those sets can be considered as essentially the same as the magnet/striker set shown in Fig.
3, and will be identified by the same reference numerals.
Referring first to Fig. 5, the panel assembly shown in that view is essentially identical with the panel assembly shown in Fig. 3. The assembly has therefore been shown in diagrammatic form only and primed reference numerals have been used to denote parts that correspond with parts shown in Fig. 3. Thus, the panel itself is denoted 26' and is installed in a frame 36' so as to be pivotal about a pivot shaft 48' from the closed position in which it is shown in full lines to the open position in which it is shown in ghost outline at B'. Panel release means 82' normally hold the panel in its closed position.
As compared with the embodiment of Fig. 3, a - 18 - ~2~15~
cushioning strut assembly generally denoted 168 is connected between the panel and fixed structure for cushioning move-ment of the panel to its open position. The strut assembly adopts a collapsed configuration shown in full lines when the panel is closed and an extended position shown in ghost outline when the panel is open. The strut assembly comprises two struts 170 and 172 that are coupled together by a pivot pin 174. The outer ends of the respective struts are connected, one to the panel 26' and the other to a bracket 176 on the bracket 90' that supports the magnet 84' of the panel release means. Bracket 90' is a channel section bracket as compared with the angle section bracket shown in Fig. 3 but serves the same purpose as well as the additional purpose of providing a support for the strut mounting bracket 176. Strut 170 is pivoted at its outer end to a bracket 178 mounted on the rear side of panel 26'.
Bracket 178 is in fact bolted to the internal stiffner 102' within the panel. In this embodiment, the stiffner 102' is also of channel section and extends the full width of the panel. The lower limb of the stiffner 102' acts as a mounting point for a bracket 180 that carries the eye 160 shown in Fig. 14 for attachment of the test rig 142. This eye is not shown in any of the other views but can of course easily be incorporated in any of the panels.
The pivot pin 174 between the two struts is carried by the inner strut 172 and extends through a slot 182 that extends longitudinally of the outer strut 170. A
tension spring 184 is connected between the pivot pin 174 ~.~41'~
and a bracket 184 on arm 170.
When the panel 26' is in its closed position and the strut assembly 168 is collapsedl pin 174 is at the far end of the slot 182; that is, the end nearest the end of strut 170 that is pivoted to bracket 178. When panel 26 prime is blown open, the struts are drawn to the straight line position shown in ghost outline. Pin 174 is initially at the outer end of slot 182 but as the panel continues to move out, strut 170 will be drawn outwardly with respect to strut 172 and the pin 174 will effectively move down the slot 182 against the tension of spring 180 (in fact, the slot will really move with respect to the pin). Spring 180 will thus cushion the last part of the movement of the panel to its open position B'.
Fig. 6 and 7 illustrate a further form of panel assembly and will now be described. In this case, the panel assembly is in principle similar to the assembly shown in Fig. 3 except in that the panel is pivoted adjacent its lower end and has magnetic panel release means adjacent its upper end. In addition, a pneumatic cylinder is used to cushion outward movement of the panel and can also be used to return the panel to its closed position after a blow-out situation has occurred. Double primed reference numerals have been used in Figs. 6 and 7 to denote parts that correspond with parts shown in Fig. 2.
The panel itself is denoted 26" and is mounted in a frame 36" by a pivot pin 48" adjacent the lower end of the panel. Thus, the panel can move from the closed position ~241~ j~L7 in which it is shown in full lines to the open position indicated in ghost outline at B". A magnetic panel release assembly 82" is provided adjacent to the upper end of the panel and is essentially the same as the assembly 82 of Fig.
3.
In this embodiment, the frame 36" is made up of box section frame members, upper and lower ones of which are shown at 186 and 188 respectively. Magnetic seal assemblies 72" are provided at the inner side of the panel. At the outer side of the panel, a circular section sealing strip 190 is carried by an external flange 192 along the top and side edges of the panel. As can be seen, when the panel is closed, the sealing strip 190 is compressed between the flange 192 and the frame 36". Along the lower edge of the panel, a similar flange 194 carries a wiper-type sealing element 196. The bottom frame member 188 is recessed as indicated at 188a to accommodate inward movement of the seal when the panel opens.
Frame 36" is carried by brackets 38" that are coupled to fixed parts of the building indicated at 198 and 200 respectively. A sag rod 202 of the building is shown extending between the fixed parts 198 and 200.
In this embodiment, the fixed structure of the building also includes a cross member 204 of reverse C-section as seen in Fig. 6 that extends behind the panel between the side members of the panel frame. Cross member ; 204 carries the support bracket 90" for the panel release assembly 82". The cross member also carries a support ~4~ 7 bracket 206 for a pneumatic cylinder generally denoted 208.
The cylinder is mounted horizontally behind the panel generally at the centre of its width and has a piston rod 210 which, at its outer end, is pivotally coupled to the panel by a clevis and bracket assembly 212. That assembly is in turn bolted to the panel and connected to a reinforcing plate 214 inside the panel.
As best seen in Fig. 7, the racket 206 for the cylinder 208 in fact comprises two angle section members 206a and 206b disposed one on each side of the cylinder and supporting a pair of trunions 216, 218 that extend to a collar 220 around the cylinder. The trunions define a horizontal pivot axis that is at right angles to the longi-tudinal axis of the cylinder. This allows the cylinder to pivot downwardly when the panel is blown open as shown in ghost outline in Fig. 6.
Cylinder 208 is coupled in a pneumatic circuit tnot shown) that is installed in the building. Cylinder 208 is provided with valves arranged so that outward movement of the piston rod 210 as a consequence of the panel being blown open is cushioned by controlled expulsion of air from the cylinder 208. The cushion effect should not of course be so severe as to inhibit free movement of the panel in response to an abrupt pressure rise within the building. In practice, therefore, air may be simply allowed to escape freely from an exhaust port in the cylinder and this will provide adequate cushioning. After the emergency situation has passed, the panel can be closed by releasing air from the ~241~
pneumatic circuit into the exhaust port to retract the piston rod 210 and close the panel.
Figs. 8, 9 and 10 illustrate a still further embodiment of the invention in which the panel assembly incorporates pressure-relief louvers.
Referring first to Fig. 8, the assembly is generally denoted 222 and includes a frame 224 of outwardly facing channel section. A series of louvers 226 extend transversely across the frame and are movable between the closed positions in which they are shown in full lines and the open positions indicated in ghost outline. Each louver is pivoted at its end to side members of frame 224 by pivot pins indicated at 228. In Fig. 8, only one of the the side frame members, denoted 224a, is visible behind the louvers. Fig. 9 shows a louver operating linkage that is located behind member 224a. The louver pivot pins 228 are rigidly connected to respective links 230 that are in turn pivotly coupled to a vertically moveable link 232. An actuating link 234 is pivotally coupled to link 232 and is itself pivoted to the frame 224 at a pivot pin 236. Thus, if link 234 is moved downwardly at its outer end from the full line position in which it is shown to the ghost outline position indicated, then link 232 will be lifted, lifting the inner ends of the links 230, and opening the louvers.
Referring back to Fig. 8, a pneumatic cylinder 238 is connected between a bracket 240 fixed to frame 224 and link 234 so that, by extending and retracting a piston rod within cylinder 238, the louvers 226 can be opened and closed.
In order to permit the louvers 226 to act as pressure relief panels, magnetic release means generally similar to those described previously are incorporated between the actuating link 234 and the cylinder 238. Thus, referring to Fig. 10, the cylinder 238 has a piston rod 244 that is connected to the actuating link 234 of the louvers by a magnet/striker set 82''' similar to that described previously. Specifically, a magnet 84''' is carried by the piston rod 244 and cooperates with a striker plate 86''' that is carried by a pair of C-section brackets 236 posi-tioned one on each side of the actuating link 234 of the louvers. A pivot pin 248 connects the brackets to link 234.
A pair of rods 250 extend downwardly from the magnet and through clearance holes in the two brackets 246 to locate the brackets during a pressure relief condition. Thus, in the event of an abrupt pressure rise within the building, the louvers 226 will be blown outwardly to the ghost outline positions shown in Fig. 8. This in turn will draw link 232 upwardly (Fig. 9) and cause the actuating link 234 to move to the ghost outline position shown in that view. Link 234 will bring with it the brackets 246 and the striker plate 86''' to the ghost outline position shown in Fig. 8 and the striker plate will be forced to separate from the magnet 84'''. After the emergency condition has passed, piston 244 can be extended so that the magnet will move down and "pick up" the striker plate. The rod can then be retracted to close the louvers.
- 24 _ ~Z~1517 It will of course be understood that the preceding descrip-tion relates to particular preferred embodiments of the invention only and that many modifications are possible within the broad scope of the invention.
For example, although reference has been made in connection with various embodiments to the use of pneuma-tics, it will of course be understood that the equivalent hydralic means may be used.
Also, changes may of course be made in the design of the panels, frames and related parts.
, .,
The patents to Fisher and Biggs ~3,539,214 and 4,194,771) disclose magnetic door catches.
Patent number 2,471,624 (Mark) shows a magnetic seal for use in refrigerators and the like.
An object of the present invention is to provide an improved pressure relief panel assembly which can be accurately set to blow-out at a predetermined pressure and which can also be re-closed or self closed and sealed after use. A further object is to provide a louver assembly which can also perform these functions. A still further object is to provide a method of making a panel release means for a ~L~41517 pressure relief panel or louver assembly.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:
In one aspect, the invention provides a pressure relief panel assembly comprising a frame, a panel pivotally coupled to the frame for movement between a normal closed position and an open position and panel release means normally holding the panel in its closed position but adapted to release when the panel is subjected to a predetermined blow-out pressure. The panel release means includes a calibrated magnet and striker set, one of which is carried by the panel and the other of which is adapted to be secured to fixed structure, e.g. the frame. The magnet has a maximum holding force substantially in excess of a known force to which it is subjected at the said predetermined blow-out pressure and the striker has secured thereto at least one non-magnetic shim defining a face for contact with the magnet. The shim thickness is selected to reduce the effective holding force excerted on the striker by the magnet, to the said known force.
As noted previously, magnetic catches for doors have previously been proposed. However, they have not been suitable for use with pressure relief panels because the magnetic forces vary substantially from one magnet to another, e.g. by as much as plus or minus 25 to 30~. In accordance with the invention, the magnetic holding force is reduced by one or more shims to a predetermined force cor-responding blow-out pressure of the panel.
In another aspect of the panel, the panel assembly _ 5 _ 1~4i~
includes multiple panels forming louvers that are designed to blow-out at a predetermined pressure but are normally held closed by the panel release means of the invention.
A still further aspect provides a method of making a panel release means, comprising the steps of:
providing a magnet capable of excerting a holding force substantially in excess of the holding force required by the panel release means;
providing a striker for cooperation with the magnet; and, Securing to the striker at least one non-magnetic shim defining a face of the striker for contact with the magnet, the shim thickness being selected to reduce the effective holding force of the magnet to said required force.
Still further aspects of the invention provide a jig for use in performing the method, and a test rig for determining the blow-out pressure of an installed panel.
BRIEF DESCRIPTON OF THE DRAWINGS:
In order that the invention may be more clearly understood, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings which illustrated a number of preferred embodiments to the invention by way of example, and in which:
Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a typical building provided with arrays of pressure relief wall panels;
Fig. 2 is a front elevational view of part of one of the panel arrays shown in Fig. l;
Fig. 2a shows one of the panels separate from the array;
Fig. 3 is a vertical sectional view on line 3-3 of Fig. 2.
Fig. 4 is a horizontal sectional view generally on line 4-4 of Fig. 3 taken at a corner of the building to show the panel arrangement at that corner;
Fig. 5 is a diagrammatic illustration somewhat similar to Fig. 3 but showing a strut arrangement for cushioning opening of the panel;
10Fig. 6 is a view similar to Fig. 3 showing an alternative form of panel;
Fig. 7 is a sectional view on line 7-7 of Fig. 6;
Fig. 8 is a vertical sectional view through a pressure relief louver assembly in accordance with a further embodiment of the invention;
Fig. 9 is a diagrammatic elevational view of an operating linkage for the louver assembly;
Fig. 10 is an elevational view generally in the direction of the arrows denoted 10-10 in Fig. 8;
20Fig. 11 is a perspective illustration of a ; calibration jig for use in making the panel and louver assemblies illustrated previously;
Fig. 12 is a side elevational view of the jig of Fig. 11 in a closed position;
25Fig. 13 is an enlarged view of the part of Fig. 12 circled at A; and Fig. 14 is a perspective view of a test rig for determining the blow-out pressure of an installed panel.
_ 7 _ ~4~5~7 DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS:
Referring first to Fig. 1, a building i5 generally denoted by reference to 20 and includes a section 22, for example, a laboratory section, in which there is a risk of explosions. The walls of section 22 are formed by arrays 24 of pressure relief or "blow-out" wall panels 26. Fig. 2 shows part of one of the arrays 24 and Fig. pa shows a typical one of the panels 26 removed from the array.
Referring to these views, the basic structure of the building is generally indicated by reference numeral 28 and includes columns 30 and cross members 32 extending between the columns. Pressure relief wall panel assemblies 34 including the panels 26 are mounted between each vertically adjacent pair of cross members 32.
Fig. 3 is a vertical sectional view through a typical one of the wall panel assemblies 34 and will now be described as representative of all of the wall panel assemblies. The assembly includes a frame 36 which surrounds the actual panel 26 and which is connected to the building cross members 32 by four clips or brackets two of which are indicated at 38 in Fig. 3. Each panel assembly is in fact secured by four such clips. By way of example, the four clips that hold the panel assembly 34 at the top right hand corner of the array are shown in Fig. 2. It can be seen from this view that two clips 38 aLe provided at the top corners of the assembly and that two similar brackets are provided along the bottom edge, but inset slightly from the corners.
P241~
Referring back to Fig. 3, frame 36 is made up of four frame members each in the form of an aluminum extrusion of generally channel shape in cross-section. The extrusion forming the top frame member is denoted by reference numeral 40 and has a base 40a and front and rear limbs 40b and 40c respectively. The bottom frame member is generally denoted 42 and has a somewhat different cross-sectional shape, formed by a base 42a and limbs 42b and 42c defining with the base a channel facing downwardly away from the panel. Limb 42c is extended inwardly as indicated at 42d behind the panel. Extrusions of the same cross sectional shape as extrusion 42 are used as the side members of the frame; one of those side members is visible at 44 in Fig. 4.
The frame support clips 38 (see Fig. 3) are bolted to the frame itself through the inner limbs of the side and bottom members of the frame. One of the bolts that engages the inner limb of the bottom frame member 42 is visible at 46 in Fig. 3.
Panel 26 is pivotally coupled to the frame 36 for movement between the normally closed position in which it is shown in full lines in Fig. 3 and an open position indicated partly in ghost outline at B in Fig. 3. In this embodiment, the panel is pivotally supported adjacent its upper end on a pivot shaft 48 that extends through the panel and then outwardly through the side members of frame 36. Fig. 4 shows an end portion of shaft 48 extending through frame side member 44 and is typical of the mounting of the pivot shafts of all of the panels. The shaft is held stationary with respect to the panel by a set bolt 50 carried by the panel. The end portion of shaft 48 then extends through a complementary opening in frame member 44 and is journaled in a flanged NYLON bushing 52 which is pressed into member 44.
Fig. 4 also shows the arrangement of two adjacent pressure relief panel assemblies at a corner of the building. A second panel assembly similar to the one that has just been described is shown in ghost outline at 34' prime. An inner angle section member 56 connects the side frame members of the two panel assemblies and supports panel assembly 34' from the building cross member 32 by way of clip 38. A,t the outer side of the corner, an angle section trim member 58 extends between the outer limbs of the respective frame side members 44 and 44'.
It will be seen from Figs. 3 and 4 that the panel itself includes a peripheral frame 60 formed by four channel section members that extend around the four sides of the panel. Respective inner and outer "skins" 62 and 64 of the panel define an internal space that is filled with insulation 66. Frame 60 embraces the composite structure formed by the inner and outer skins 62 and 64 and the insulation 66. The extrusion from which the frame is formed includes an undercut slot 68 that receives a seal member 70 at the outer side of the panel. Similar seal members 70 extend along the top and bottom edges (Fig. 3) and down both sides of the panel (as shown for one side in Fig. 4). The seal members 70 are bonded together at corner joints. Along the sides and bottom edge, the seal members 70 overlie the ~241~jl7 corresponding members of frame 36 when panel is closed, while along the top edge, the seal member extends inside the outer limb 40b of frame member 40 and the limb is angled outwardly to some extent to form a water run-off. This seal arrangement prevents damage to the seals as the panel 26 moves from its closed position to its open position.
Additional weather seals are provided around the perimeter of the inner side of the panel and take the form of magnetic seals denoted by reference to numeral 72.
Again, seals are provided along the top, bottom and side edges of the panel and the seals are bonded together at corner joints. The top and bottom edge seals are seen in Fig. 3 while one of the side edge seals is visible in Fig.
4. Referring to the top edge seal shown in Fig. 3 as typical of all four seals, it will be seen that the seal comprises a flexible strip magnet 74 carried by a flexible rubber bellows 76 from the panel, and a co-operating magnetically attractible plate 78 carried by the frame 36.
The bellows 76 is mechanically attached to the inner limb of the panel frame member 60 (e.g. by adhesive) while the plate 78 is retained in a slot 80 formed in the extrusion that forms the top member 40 of frame 36. When the panel moves to its open position, the seal will separate at the inner face between the magnet 74 and plate 78; the magnet 74 and bellows 76 will then move with the panel as shown in ghost outline at 72. When the panel returns to its closed position, the seal will automatically close due to the magnetic attraction between magnet 74 and plate 78. The , 24~ 7 seal arrangement is essentially identical at the bottom and side edges of the panel.
Panel assembly 34 also includes panel release means generally indicated by reference numeral 82, for normally holding the panel in its closed position while permitting the panel to release and move to its open position when subjected to a predetermined blow-out pressure from within the building. The panel release means takes the form of a calibrated magnet and striker set one of which is carried by the panel and the other of which is fixed. In this embodiment, the magnet is fixed and is denoted by reference numeral 84 and the striker plate is indicated at 86 and moves with the panel. As will be described in more detail later, the magnet has a maximum holding force substantially in excess of a known force when a predetermined blow-out pressure is exerted on the panel. A
non-magnetic shim 88 is secured to the outer face of the striker and in effect defines the face that contacts the magnet. The thickness of the shim is selected during manufacture of the panel release means to reduce the ; effective holding force exerted on the striker 86 by the magnet 84 to the known force at which the panel should release. In other words, the magnet and striker set 84, 86 is precisely calibrated to release the panel at a predeter-mined blow-out pressure.
Figs. 11 to 13 illustrate the operation of calibrating the magnet/striker set and will be described later.
Continuing for the moment with the description of Fig. 3, magnet 84 is a commercially available permanent magnet and is carried by a support bracket 90 from a further bracket 92 that is interposed between and bolted to the bottom and side members of frame 36. Fig. 2 shows the panel release means 82 for one of the panels, and it will seen the magnet/striker assembly is positioned adjacent to the bottom of the panel approximately centrally of its width.
Referring back to Fig. 3, the striker 86 comprises a magnetically attractible plate that is secured to the rear face of panel 26 with the interposition of an extrusion 96 that effectively sets out the striker plate from the back of the panel. The striker plate is in fact bolted to extrusion 96 by a bolt indicated at 98 that passes through a NYLON
washer 100 at the back of the striker plate and is fitted with a nut 98a inside the extrusion. Washer 100 allows the plate to 7'float" somewhat for ensuring proper face-to-face engagement with the magnet. Extrusion 96 is slightly longer than the width of the striker plate and is secured to the panel outwardly of the striker plate by two bolts that are threaded into a relatively substantial angle bracket 102 inside the panel. Bracket 102 acts to stiffen the panel at the point of attachment to the striker. Part of the shank of one of the attachment bolts for extrusion 96 is visible at 103. The bottom limb of stiffner 102 may be connected to the bottom frame member of the panel by a bolt indicated in dotted lines at 104.
~LZ415~'~
In manufacturing a pressure relief paneL assembly of the form provided by the invention, a magnet/striker set is calibrated so that the panel assembly in which the set is incorporated will release when the panel is subjected to a predetermined pressure from within the building. magnet is selected having a rated holding force substantially in excess of that which will be required in the panel assembly.
It has been found that magnets having the same rated holding force can vary as much as plus or minus 25 to 30% from the rated force. For example, a magnet rated as having a holding force of 400 lbs. might in fact only be capable of holding 280 lbs. or could hold 520 lbs. Selection is therefore undertaken on the basis that the magnet will have more than adequate holding power even if its holding power is 30% less than the rated power. For example, a 400 lb.
rated magnet might be selected for use in a panel in which the magnet is required to exert a maximum of, say 250 lbs.
holding force. A selected magnet is then matched with a striker plate and the magnet/striker plate set is calibrated to the exact holding force required.
Figs. 11 to 13 show a jig used in effecting this calibration, and will now be described.
Referring first to Fig. 11, the jig itself is generally denoted by reference numeral 106 and includes a base 108 to which is secured a fixed arm 110 for carrying a striker plate assembly (denoted 112), and a pivoted arm 114 for carrying the magnet. The magnet is denoted 84 to correspond with Fig. 3 and the striker plate itself is - 14 - ~2~
denoted 86 and is carried by extrusion 96. Bolt 98 attaches striker plate 86 to extrusion 96 as shown in Fig. 3. Extrusion 96 is bolted to arm 110 by two bolts llOa as shown in Fig.
13 so that the striker plate assembly is fixed to the arm.
Brackets 116 at the sides of the arm accept the extrusion mounting bolts llOa.
The arm 114 that carries the magnet is pivoted to the end of the fixed arm 110 remote from the striker plate assembly 112 by brackets 118 of a length selected so that the two arms are essentially parallel when magnet 84 is in engagement with striker plate 86. The distance of the striker plate from the pivot axis of arm 114 (denoted 120) corresponds with the distance of the striker plate from the axis of pivot shaft 48 (Fig. 3) in the installed panel assembly.
An hydraulic cylinder 122 is mounted ajacent the outer end of the pivoted arm 114 with its axis at right angles to the pivot axis of the arm. The cylinder has a push rod 124 that extends through the arm and is of a length so that its outer end engages the top surface of the fixed arm 110 when the magnet is in engagement with the striker plate. An hydraulic pump 126 having ar. actuating handle 128 is fixed to the base 108 adjacent the fixed arm 110 and has an outlet connected by a hose 130 to the cylinder 122. A
pressure gauge 134 is installed in the hose 130.
At the beginning of the calibration operation, the striker plate and magnet are secured to the respective arms as shown in Fig. 11 and the magnet is then brought into ....
41~
engagement with the striker plate by lowering arm 114 as shown in Fig. 12. The push rod 124 of cylinder 122 is then extended by operating the hand pump 126 until sufficient force is exerted to cause the magnet to release from the striker plate. The pressure at which the release occurs is indicated by gauge 134 and is recorded and converted to magnet release force. One or more non-magnetic shims (in this case of brass) are then added to the top surface of the striker plate and the process of forcing the arms apart by means of the cylinder 122 is repeated using different shim thicknesses until the magnet releases at a force corres-ponding to the force at which the panel is to release in the installed pressure relief panel assembly. Fig. 13 shows a single shim 136 on the top surface of striker plate 86.
When the required shim thickness has been determined, or more shims of the required thickness are then bonded to the striker plate 86 using an appropriate adhesive. The striker plate and magnet are then a matched, calibrated set and are appropriately identified as such and are removed from the jig.
Fig. 14 shows a test rig that can be used to determine the pressure at which a particular panel will release in situ (i.e. after the panel has been installed in the building). In Fig. 14, part of a panel array is shown in ghost outline at 24 and the panel to be tested is denoted 26. The frame surrounding that panel is denoted 36. Protru-ding outwardly from the frame adjacent opposite sides are two horizonal lugs 138 having respective vertical openings 140. The lugs 138 are permanent parts of the frame 36 that have not been shown in previous views.
The test rig itself includes a frame 142 having pins 144 that are positioned to fit into the openings 140 in the lugs 136. A cross member 146 at the bottom of the frame bears against the building below the lugs 136. The frame also includes arms 148 that extend outwardly from the building when the rig is installed and that are joined at their outer ends by an upper cross member 150. Cross member lS0 carries an hydraulic cylinder 152 that is oriented with its axis at right angles to and in alignment with the bottom frame member 60 of the panel 26. Cylinder 152 has a piston rod 154 to the outer end of which is connected a chain 156 having at its outer end a hook 158 that engages an eye 160 at the centre of frame member 60.
Frame cross member 150 carries a hand pump 162 similar to the pump 126 of Fig. 11. The pump has an operating handle 162 and an outlet that is connected by a hose 164 to cylinder 152. A pressure gauge 166 is connected in hose 164. The hose 164 is connected to the cylinder 152 so that the piston rod is retracted when hose 164 is under pressure.
To test the release pressure of a particular panel, the rig 142 is coupled to the installed panel assembly by engaging the pins 144 with the lugs 138 as described previously and the chain 156 is connected to the eyelet 160 by means of hook 158. Hand pump 160 is then operated until the pull exerted on the panel via chain 156 241~
causes the panel to release. The pressure at which thisoccurs is indicated by gauge 166 and is recorded and converted to panel release force.
Rig 142 has been designed specifically for panel assemblies of the form provided by the invention but could, in principle, be used to test the release pressure of panel assemblies of other forms. In the case of a panel assembly of the form provided by the invention, it would be possible to recalibrate the magnet/striker set if the release pressure is not found to be within specifications.
Figs. 5 to 10 illustrate pressure relief panel assemblies in accordance with other embodiments of the invention. These assemblies all incorporate calibrated magnet/striker sets. Those sets can be considered as essentially the same as the magnet/striker set shown in Fig.
3, and will be identified by the same reference numerals.
Referring first to Fig. 5, the panel assembly shown in that view is essentially identical with the panel assembly shown in Fig. 3. The assembly has therefore been shown in diagrammatic form only and primed reference numerals have been used to denote parts that correspond with parts shown in Fig. 3. Thus, the panel itself is denoted 26' and is installed in a frame 36' so as to be pivotal about a pivot shaft 48' from the closed position in which it is shown in full lines to the open position in which it is shown in ghost outline at B'. Panel release means 82' normally hold the panel in its closed position.
As compared with the embodiment of Fig. 3, a - 18 - ~2~15~
cushioning strut assembly generally denoted 168 is connected between the panel and fixed structure for cushioning move-ment of the panel to its open position. The strut assembly adopts a collapsed configuration shown in full lines when the panel is closed and an extended position shown in ghost outline when the panel is open. The strut assembly comprises two struts 170 and 172 that are coupled together by a pivot pin 174. The outer ends of the respective struts are connected, one to the panel 26' and the other to a bracket 176 on the bracket 90' that supports the magnet 84' of the panel release means. Bracket 90' is a channel section bracket as compared with the angle section bracket shown in Fig. 3 but serves the same purpose as well as the additional purpose of providing a support for the strut mounting bracket 176. Strut 170 is pivoted at its outer end to a bracket 178 mounted on the rear side of panel 26'.
Bracket 178 is in fact bolted to the internal stiffner 102' within the panel. In this embodiment, the stiffner 102' is also of channel section and extends the full width of the panel. The lower limb of the stiffner 102' acts as a mounting point for a bracket 180 that carries the eye 160 shown in Fig. 14 for attachment of the test rig 142. This eye is not shown in any of the other views but can of course easily be incorporated in any of the panels.
The pivot pin 174 between the two struts is carried by the inner strut 172 and extends through a slot 182 that extends longitudinally of the outer strut 170. A
tension spring 184 is connected between the pivot pin 174 ~.~41'~
and a bracket 184 on arm 170.
When the panel 26' is in its closed position and the strut assembly 168 is collapsedl pin 174 is at the far end of the slot 182; that is, the end nearest the end of strut 170 that is pivoted to bracket 178. When panel 26 prime is blown open, the struts are drawn to the straight line position shown in ghost outline. Pin 174 is initially at the outer end of slot 182 but as the panel continues to move out, strut 170 will be drawn outwardly with respect to strut 172 and the pin 174 will effectively move down the slot 182 against the tension of spring 180 (in fact, the slot will really move with respect to the pin). Spring 180 will thus cushion the last part of the movement of the panel to its open position B'.
Fig. 6 and 7 illustrate a further form of panel assembly and will now be described. In this case, the panel assembly is in principle similar to the assembly shown in Fig. 3 except in that the panel is pivoted adjacent its lower end and has magnetic panel release means adjacent its upper end. In addition, a pneumatic cylinder is used to cushion outward movement of the panel and can also be used to return the panel to its closed position after a blow-out situation has occurred. Double primed reference numerals have been used in Figs. 6 and 7 to denote parts that correspond with parts shown in Fig. 2.
The panel itself is denoted 26" and is mounted in a frame 36" by a pivot pin 48" adjacent the lower end of the panel. Thus, the panel can move from the closed position ~241~ j~L7 in which it is shown in full lines to the open position indicated in ghost outline at B". A magnetic panel release assembly 82" is provided adjacent to the upper end of the panel and is essentially the same as the assembly 82 of Fig.
3.
In this embodiment, the frame 36" is made up of box section frame members, upper and lower ones of which are shown at 186 and 188 respectively. Magnetic seal assemblies 72" are provided at the inner side of the panel. At the outer side of the panel, a circular section sealing strip 190 is carried by an external flange 192 along the top and side edges of the panel. As can be seen, when the panel is closed, the sealing strip 190 is compressed between the flange 192 and the frame 36". Along the lower edge of the panel, a similar flange 194 carries a wiper-type sealing element 196. The bottom frame member 188 is recessed as indicated at 188a to accommodate inward movement of the seal when the panel opens.
Frame 36" is carried by brackets 38" that are coupled to fixed parts of the building indicated at 198 and 200 respectively. A sag rod 202 of the building is shown extending between the fixed parts 198 and 200.
In this embodiment, the fixed structure of the building also includes a cross member 204 of reverse C-section as seen in Fig. 6 that extends behind the panel between the side members of the panel frame. Cross member ; 204 carries the support bracket 90" for the panel release assembly 82". The cross member also carries a support ~4~ 7 bracket 206 for a pneumatic cylinder generally denoted 208.
The cylinder is mounted horizontally behind the panel generally at the centre of its width and has a piston rod 210 which, at its outer end, is pivotally coupled to the panel by a clevis and bracket assembly 212. That assembly is in turn bolted to the panel and connected to a reinforcing plate 214 inside the panel.
As best seen in Fig. 7, the racket 206 for the cylinder 208 in fact comprises two angle section members 206a and 206b disposed one on each side of the cylinder and supporting a pair of trunions 216, 218 that extend to a collar 220 around the cylinder. The trunions define a horizontal pivot axis that is at right angles to the longi-tudinal axis of the cylinder. This allows the cylinder to pivot downwardly when the panel is blown open as shown in ghost outline in Fig. 6.
Cylinder 208 is coupled in a pneumatic circuit tnot shown) that is installed in the building. Cylinder 208 is provided with valves arranged so that outward movement of the piston rod 210 as a consequence of the panel being blown open is cushioned by controlled expulsion of air from the cylinder 208. The cushion effect should not of course be so severe as to inhibit free movement of the panel in response to an abrupt pressure rise within the building. In practice, therefore, air may be simply allowed to escape freely from an exhaust port in the cylinder and this will provide adequate cushioning. After the emergency situation has passed, the panel can be closed by releasing air from the ~241~
pneumatic circuit into the exhaust port to retract the piston rod 210 and close the panel.
Figs. 8, 9 and 10 illustrate a still further embodiment of the invention in which the panel assembly incorporates pressure-relief louvers.
Referring first to Fig. 8, the assembly is generally denoted 222 and includes a frame 224 of outwardly facing channel section. A series of louvers 226 extend transversely across the frame and are movable between the closed positions in which they are shown in full lines and the open positions indicated in ghost outline. Each louver is pivoted at its end to side members of frame 224 by pivot pins indicated at 228. In Fig. 8, only one of the the side frame members, denoted 224a, is visible behind the louvers. Fig. 9 shows a louver operating linkage that is located behind member 224a. The louver pivot pins 228 are rigidly connected to respective links 230 that are in turn pivotly coupled to a vertically moveable link 232. An actuating link 234 is pivotally coupled to link 232 and is itself pivoted to the frame 224 at a pivot pin 236. Thus, if link 234 is moved downwardly at its outer end from the full line position in which it is shown to the ghost outline position indicated, then link 232 will be lifted, lifting the inner ends of the links 230, and opening the louvers.
Referring back to Fig. 8, a pneumatic cylinder 238 is connected between a bracket 240 fixed to frame 224 and link 234 so that, by extending and retracting a piston rod within cylinder 238, the louvers 226 can be opened and closed.
In order to permit the louvers 226 to act as pressure relief panels, magnetic release means generally similar to those described previously are incorporated between the actuating link 234 and the cylinder 238. Thus, referring to Fig. 10, the cylinder 238 has a piston rod 244 that is connected to the actuating link 234 of the louvers by a magnet/striker set 82''' similar to that described previously. Specifically, a magnet 84''' is carried by the piston rod 244 and cooperates with a striker plate 86''' that is carried by a pair of C-section brackets 236 posi-tioned one on each side of the actuating link 234 of the louvers. A pivot pin 248 connects the brackets to link 234.
A pair of rods 250 extend downwardly from the magnet and through clearance holes in the two brackets 246 to locate the brackets during a pressure relief condition. Thus, in the event of an abrupt pressure rise within the building, the louvers 226 will be blown outwardly to the ghost outline positions shown in Fig. 8. This in turn will draw link 232 upwardly (Fig. 9) and cause the actuating link 234 to move to the ghost outline position shown in that view. Link 234 will bring with it the brackets 246 and the striker plate 86''' to the ghost outline position shown in Fig. 8 and the striker plate will be forced to separate from the magnet 84'''. After the emergency condition has passed, piston 244 can be extended so that the magnet will move down and "pick up" the striker plate. The rod can then be retracted to close the louvers.
- 24 _ ~Z~1517 It will of course be understood that the preceding descrip-tion relates to particular preferred embodiments of the invention only and that many modifications are possible within the broad scope of the invention.
For example, although reference has been made in connection with various embodiments to the use of pneuma-tics, it will of course be understood that the equivalent hydralic means may be used.
Also, changes may of course be made in the design of the panels, frames and related parts.
, .,
Claims (14)
PROPERTY OR PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS:
1. A pressure relief panel assembly comprising:
a frame;
a panel pivotally coupled to the frame for movement between a normal closed position and an open position; and, panel release means normally holding the panel in its closed position but adapted to release when the panel is subjected to a predetermined blow-out pressure, the panel release means including a calibrated magnet and striker set, one of which is carried by the panel and the other of which is adapted to be secured to fixed structure, the magnet having a maximum holding force substantially in excess of a known force to which it is subjected at the said predeter-mined blow-out pressure, and said striker having secured thereto at least one non-magnetic shim defining a face for contact with the magnet, said at least one shim being of a thickness selected to reduce the effective holding force exerted on the striker by the magnet to said known force.
a frame;
a panel pivotally coupled to the frame for movement between a normal closed position and an open position; and, panel release means normally holding the panel in its closed position but adapted to release when the panel is subjected to a predetermined blow-out pressure, the panel release means including a calibrated magnet and striker set, one of which is carried by the panel and the other of which is adapted to be secured to fixed structure, the magnet having a maximum holding force substantially in excess of a known force to which it is subjected at the said predeter-mined blow-out pressure, and said striker having secured thereto at least one non-magnetic shim defining a face for contact with the magnet, said at least one shim being of a thickness selected to reduce the effective holding force exerted on the striker by the magnet to said known force.
2. An assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein said frame further comprises an inwardly directed flange extending around the perimeter of said frame inwardly of and spaced from a marginal portion of the panel when the panel is in its said closed position, and wherein the assembly further comprises a magnetic seal between said flange and panel, comprising an elongate magnet flexibly coupled to one of said flange and panel, and a magnetically attractable strip carried by the other of said flange and panel, whereby the magnet attaches to said strip and forms said seal in the closed position of the panel, and separates from said strip as the panel moves to its open position.
3. An assembly as claimed in claim 2, further com-prising flexible sealing elements at the outer side of the panel adapted to co-operate with the frame in said closed position of the panel to form an external seal.
4. An assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein said panel comprises a peripheral frame, a pair of spaced inner and outer panel members surrounded by the frame, and insulation filling the space between said panel members.
5. An assembly as claimed in claim 4, wherein said panel is pivotally coupled to the frame adjacent a first end of the panel and wherein said magnet and striker set is disposed adjacent a second end of the panel, the panel further including an internal stiffener inwardly of said inner panel member to which the relevant one of said striker and magnet is coupled through said inner panel member, said stiffener being generally L-shaped and extending inwardly of said member and along said second end of the panel.
6. An assembly as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a fluid-pressure operated piston and cylinder unit connected between said panel and fixed structure so as to be extended when the panel moves from its closed position to its open position for cushioning said movement, the piston and cylinder unit being retractable to return the panel to its closed position.
7. An assembly as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a pivoted linkage connected between said panel and fixed structure for movement between a collapsed position when the panel is closed and an extended position when the panel is open, and spring means arranged to resist movement of said linkage from its collapsed position to its extended position, to cushion opening of the panel.
8. An assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein said panel comprises one of a series of louvers that extend across said frame, each for movement between open and closed positions, and wherein the assembly further comprises linkage means operable to move the louvers together between their open closed positions, and a fluid pressure operated piston and cylinder unit for actuating said linkage means, and wherein said magnet and striker set forms a separable coupling between said unit and linkage means so that the magnet normally holds the louvers in their closed positions but is separable from the striker in response to a predetermined blow-out pressure acting on said louvers to permit the louvers to move to their open positions.
9. An assembly as claimed in claim 8, further comprising guide means slidably coupling said magnet and striker for movement towards and away from one another, said guide means permitting separation of the magnet and striker in response to a blow-out condition and subsequent re-engagement by actuation of said piston and cylinder unit.
10. A pressure relief panel assembly for a building structure, the assembly including a panel, means for pivotally supporting the panel for movement between a normal closed position and an open position, and panel release means adapted to normally hold the panel in its closed position but to release when the panel is subjected to a pre-determined blow-out pressure, the panel release means including a magnetic circuit comprising a magnet and striker set, said circuit being calibrated for release of said release means at a known force to which the release means is subjected at said predetermined blow-out pressure.
11. An assembly as claimed in claim 10, wherein the magnet has a maximum holding force substantially in excess of said known force, and wherein the magentic circuit includes means for reducing the holding force between the magnet and striker plate to said known force.
12. An assembly as claimed in claim 11, wherein said means for reducing the holding force in the magnetic circuit includes a non-magnetic shim.
13. A building structure including at least one pressure relief panel assembly as claimed in claim 1, 2 or 3.
14. A building structure including at least one pressure relief panel assembly as claimed in claim 10, 11 or 12.
Priority Applications (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000532372A CA1241517A (en) | 1987-03-18 | 1987-03-18 | Pressure relief panels and louvers |
| US07/871,591 US5361549A (en) | 1987-03-18 | 1992-04-13 | Pressure relief panels and louvers |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000532372A CA1241517A (en) | 1987-03-18 | 1987-03-18 | Pressure relief panels and louvers |
| US07/871,591 US5361549A (en) | 1987-03-18 | 1992-04-13 | Pressure relief panels and louvers |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1241517A true CA1241517A (en) | 1988-09-06 |
Family
ID=25671270
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000532372A Expired CA1241517A (en) | 1987-03-18 | 1987-03-18 | Pressure relief panels and louvers |
Country Status (2)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US5361549A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA1241517A (en) |
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP0518698A2 (en) * | 1991-06-13 | 1992-12-16 | C/S Constructions Specialties Limited | Pressure relief panel |
| EP1580391A2 (en) | 2004-03-22 | 2005-09-28 | Colt International Holdings Ag | Lock device for a cover of an opening in a building |
Families Citing this family (11)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US6223473B1 (en) * | 1999-09-10 | 2001-05-01 | Cid Associates, Inc. | Explosion relief system including an explosion relief panel and a blast shaft having two openings |
| US20070271845A1 (en) * | 2006-05-26 | 2007-11-29 | Wen Ming Chang | Explosion-venting door structure |
| BRPI0622155A2 (en) * | 2006-12-20 | 2011-12-27 | Otis Elevator Co | set to control motion of an elevator car |
| NO332916B1 (en) * | 2010-01-08 | 2013-02-04 | Ikm Dsc Engineering As | Panel for offshore installations |
| CN104583072B (en) * | 2012-08-17 | 2017-08-15 | 庞巴迪公司 | Door component for interior of aircraft |
| CN103550894B (en) * | 2013-11-08 | 2019-01-22 | 西安新竹防灾救生设备有限公司 | Mechanical pressure release device |
| JP6947023B2 (en) * | 2017-12-28 | 2021-10-13 | 中国電力株式会社 | Blowout device |
| PL425422A1 (en) * | 2018-05-02 | 2019-11-04 | Nowak Innovations Spolka Z Ograniczona Odpowiedzialnoscia | Methods for emergency opening of entrance openings in emergency situations, equipment and systems for execution of them and methods for assembling of the devices for emergency opening of movable elements mounted in the entrance openings |
| CN110565827B (en) * | 2019-08-22 | 2024-05-17 | 广东中集建筑制造有限公司 | Anti-seismic assembly and modularized building |
| JP7369682B2 (en) * | 2020-11-16 | 2023-10-26 | 三菱重工業株式会社 | Blowout panel opening device |
| DE102023101141A1 (en) | 2023-01-18 | 2024-07-18 | Bernd Heydebreck | Housing for a cash machine and method for operating such an enclosure |
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| US1254517A (en) * | 1917-08-20 | 1918-01-22 | Albert H Lumm | Ventilator. |
| US3258890A (en) * | 1962-05-28 | 1966-07-05 | Dow Chemical Co | Framed wall construction with blowout panel |
| US3521546A (en) * | 1967-03-01 | 1970-07-21 | Vacuum Concrete Overseas Co Es | Atmospheric pressure equalizing means |
| US3453777A (en) * | 1967-11-07 | 1969-07-08 | American Cyanamid Co | Pressure venting panel assembly |
| US3557497A (en) * | 1968-09-11 | 1971-01-26 | Robertson Co H H | Explosive pressure and/or heat and smoke venting unit |
| US3539214A (en) * | 1968-12-02 | 1970-11-10 | Raymond Fisher | Adjustable magnetic plate striker |
| US3730577A (en) * | 1971-03-17 | 1973-05-01 | Glass Lab Co | Magneto-responsive composite molding |
| US3864881A (en) * | 1973-07-12 | 1975-02-11 | Clarence P Wolf | Blowout panel system for building walls |
| US3950894A (en) * | 1974-02-22 | 1976-04-20 | Structural Plastics Incorporated | Reinforced polyester door |
| US3924377A (en) * | 1974-04-12 | 1975-12-09 | Lennon Manufacturing Inc | Door |
| US4079558A (en) * | 1976-01-28 | 1978-03-21 | Gorhams', Inc. | Magnetic bond storm window |
| SU625008A1 (en) * | 1976-06-28 | 1978-09-25 | Горьковский Инжерно-Строительный Институт Имени В.П.Чкалова | Roof for buildings and structures |
| US4099755A (en) * | 1976-12-10 | 1978-07-11 | Anderson Keith J | Releasable magnet assembly |
| US4272942A (en) * | 1977-04-11 | 1981-06-16 | Jackson E L | Method and apparatus for custom closing or modifying building openings |
| DE2756726C2 (en) * | 1977-12-20 | 1982-04-08 | Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm GmbH, 8000 München | Device for pressure equalization in an aircraft or spacecraft |
| US4194771A (en) * | 1978-05-15 | 1980-03-25 | Biggs Ronald L | Magnetic door stay retainer |
| US4276725A (en) * | 1979-07-12 | 1981-07-07 | Ash John E | Method and apparatus for releasing an elevated pressure developed behind a wall |
| US4389827A (en) * | 1980-06-09 | 1983-06-28 | Valkenburg Constance M Van | Through-the-wall air conditioner cover kit |
| US4327241A (en) * | 1980-10-22 | 1982-04-27 | Obenchain Richard F | Explosion venting means for metallurgical furnace |
| US4361985A (en) * | 1980-12-08 | 1982-12-07 | Nfe International Ltd. | Hydraulic door opening/closing and locking/unlocking apparatus |
-
1987
- 1987-03-18 CA CA000532372A patent/CA1241517A/en not_active Expired
-
1992
- 1992-04-13 US US07/871,591 patent/US5361549A/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Cited By (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP0518698A2 (en) * | 1991-06-13 | 1992-12-16 | C/S Constructions Specialties Limited | Pressure relief panel |
| EP0518698A3 (en) * | 1991-06-13 | 1993-04-07 | C/S Constructions Specialties Limited | Pressure relief panel |
| US5417014A (en) * | 1991-06-13 | 1995-05-23 | C/S Construction Specialties Limited | Pressure relief panel hold open apparatus and method |
| EP1580391A2 (en) | 2004-03-22 | 2005-09-28 | Colt International Holdings Ag | Lock device for a cover of an opening in a building |
| EP1580391A3 (en) * | 2004-03-22 | 2008-10-08 | Colt International Holdings Ag | Lock device for a cover of an opening in a building |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| US5361549A (en) | 1994-11-08 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| MKEX | Expiry |