CA2093162A1 - Fire simulator for fire fighter training - Google Patents
Fire simulator for fire fighter trainingInfo
- Publication number
- CA2093162A1 CA2093162A1 CA 2093162 CA2093162A CA2093162A1 CA 2093162 A1 CA2093162 A1 CA 2093162A1 CA 2093162 CA2093162 CA 2093162 CA 2093162 A CA2093162 A CA 2093162A CA 2093162 A1 CA2093162 A1 CA 2093162A1
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- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- flame
- gas
- igniter
- fire
- set forth
- Prior art date
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- Abandoned
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-
- G—PHYSICS
- G09—EDUCATION; CRYPTOGRAPHY; DISPLAY; ADVERTISING; SEALS
- G09B—EDUCATIONAL OR DEMONSTRATION APPLIANCES; APPLIANCES FOR TEACHING, OR COMMUNICATING WITH, THE BLIND, DEAF OR MUTE; MODELS; PLANETARIA; GLOBES; MAPS; DIAGRAMS
- G09B9/00—Simulators for teaching or training purposes
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
- Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Educational Administration (AREA)
- Educational Technology (AREA)
- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
Abstract
ABSTRACT
A conflagration simulator system for fire fighting training comprises a portable flame generator with a shallow water bath to which combustible liquid or gaseous fuel is admitted below the water surface, and passes upwardly in dis-persed relation therethrough, to combust in the atmosphere, as a wild-fire. An unquenchable pilot flame with independent fuel and air supplies and independently energized low voltage electronic ignition has an extended flame tube with an elongated, two axis exit port, to ensure persistent ignition conditions over an extended zone of the bath. The system includes a separately portable, wheeled control center, in-cluding gas and air supplies with associated control valves, an electrical power source, and connection hoses permitting rapid connection of the control center to the flame genera-tor, and an electrical hard wired or radio control with a dead-man energizing switch, to enable instantaneous shut-down of the system.
A conflagration simulator system for fire fighting training comprises a portable flame generator with a shallow water bath to which combustible liquid or gaseous fuel is admitted below the water surface, and passes upwardly in dis-persed relation therethrough, to combust in the atmosphere, as a wild-fire. An unquenchable pilot flame with independent fuel and air supplies and independently energized low voltage electronic ignition has an extended flame tube with an elongated, two axis exit port, to ensure persistent ignition conditions over an extended zone of the bath. The system includes a separately portable, wheeled control center, in-cluding gas and air supplies with associated control valves, an electrical power source, and connection hoses permitting rapid connection of the control center to the flame genera-tor, and an electrical hard wired or radio control with a dead-man energizing switch, to enable instantaneous shut-down of the system.
Description
A FIRE SIMULATOR FOR FIRE FIGHTER TRAINING
TECHNICAL FIELD
This invention is directed to a conflagration sim-ulator system including a portable flame generator and con-trol means therefor.
BACKGROUND ART
Accidental fires are an ever-present phenomena, and the provision of fire fighting equipment and the training of ordinary civilians as well as fire righters to handle that equipment effectively is an important and ongoing task.
Statistically, regarding only the matter of personal injuries associated with fire fighting training, some 6,000 injuries occur annually, ranging from minor burns or blisters to life threatening occurrences. In addition, about 6 training deaths take place each year.
Traditionally, over the past several decades use has been made of simulated "real fires", set in special buildings or open pits constructed of concrete and/or metal, in an effort to provide realistic training without undue risk to the participants.
Such provisions suffer from a number of drawbacks, namely: the facilities are expensive to construct and main-tain, and are fixed, such that participants must travel to the facility; the setting of such "real fires" generates con-ditions of considerable danger, with great difficulty being encountered in controlling the fire; the fires generate un-duly high temperatures, up to about 1200 to 1400 degrees F., greatly in excess of the safe 550 degrees F. upper limit tolerated by fire resistant safety suits; and the fuels used generate large quantities of atmospheric pollution as well as ground pollution.
Recent efforts over the last decade to overcome these drawbacks have resulted in the provision of flame tanks, set in-ground or above ground, using gaseous or li~uid 2~3~2 .
fuels such as propane, including over-water combustion such as that illustrated in U.S. Patent No. 5,055,050, Rogers et al. Gaseous combustion over water is shown in U.S. Patent No. 3,038,064.
Certain other aspects of fire fighting trainer pro-visions are illustrated in U.S. Patent Nos . 3,675,342;
4,303,396; 4,861,270, Ernst et al.; 4,983,124, Ernst et al.;
and 5,052,933, Rogers et al.
In the teaching of U.S. Patent No. 5,055,050 there is described a pilot flame device for igniting gaseous pro-pane fuel. The use of an electronic ignlter is contem~lated as an alternative source of lgnltion.
These simplistic provisions are evidently intended only to initiate ignit`ion, and evidently overlook the practical realities of the conditions of use of such a simu-lator, wherein large quantities of liquid propane are pro-jected through a water bath. The propane expands by some 900 volumes as it flashes to gas and is ignited, while the water of the bath is being rapidly supplemented by the liquid fire fighting agents such as foam as well as dry chemicals and water. As a conseguence, some of the gas is temporarily absorbed in the bath and overflows with the liquid contents of the bath. Meanwhile, there is~a continuing possibility of the extinguishing of the unProtected pilot flame by the in-coming extinguishants.
Experience by the present inventors over the last decade in evolving propane gas by pumping liquid propane through a water bath, in a fashion similar to that described in the foregoing Rogers et al. patent has shown that there exists a strong likelihood of the accumulation of propane gas in and about the apparatus. To this fact must be added the likelihood that the injected smell ingredient normally added to the propane to facilitate its detection becomes absorbed by the water present, so that the presence of such extraneous, non-combu~ted gas is not evident by smell.
2~931~2 These difficulties are compounded by the fact that stoichiometric or combustible gas concentrations may not be consistently and continuously present, but may evolve over time, subsequent to a burn.
Hence, there is an urgent need for the capability to ensure the continuing presence of an unquenched pilot flame of significant size, capable of igniting persisting gas traces both during and after the main burn, even when the apparatus is shut down, and the burn terminated.
DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION
~, The present invention provides a pilot igniter flame apparatus for use with a combustor tank, to provide a substantially inextinguishable pilot flame during and even subsequent to the presence of a conflagration in the tank, the pilot flame being substantially impervious to the ingress of fire fighting media into the tank.
In a preferred embodiment the pilot flame apparatus includes an independently controllable fuel supply, oxygen supply and independently energized ignition means. The oxygen supply generally comprises an air source, such as an air bottle.
The subject apparatus may be used in training personnel in the handling of a range of fire fighting equip-ment, and may be in the form of a portable embodiment, having a range of operation to simulate different degrees and different types of fire.
The use of a portable embodiment of conflagration generator enables people to be trained near, or even within their working locations, and avoids the expense of traveling to a fixed installation, with undue time lost from work, etc.
The apparatus may be used indoors or out of doors.
Also, it may be used in a variety of settings, in coniunction ' :~.
~3~
TECHNICAL FIELD
This invention is directed to a conflagration sim-ulator system including a portable flame generator and con-trol means therefor.
BACKGROUND ART
Accidental fires are an ever-present phenomena, and the provision of fire fighting equipment and the training of ordinary civilians as well as fire righters to handle that equipment effectively is an important and ongoing task.
Statistically, regarding only the matter of personal injuries associated with fire fighting training, some 6,000 injuries occur annually, ranging from minor burns or blisters to life threatening occurrences. In addition, about 6 training deaths take place each year.
Traditionally, over the past several decades use has been made of simulated "real fires", set in special buildings or open pits constructed of concrete and/or metal, in an effort to provide realistic training without undue risk to the participants.
Such provisions suffer from a number of drawbacks, namely: the facilities are expensive to construct and main-tain, and are fixed, such that participants must travel to the facility; the setting of such "real fires" generates con-ditions of considerable danger, with great difficulty being encountered in controlling the fire; the fires generate un-duly high temperatures, up to about 1200 to 1400 degrees F., greatly in excess of the safe 550 degrees F. upper limit tolerated by fire resistant safety suits; and the fuels used generate large quantities of atmospheric pollution as well as ground pollution.
Recent efforts over the last decade to overcome these drawbacks have resulted in the provision of flame tanks, set in-ground or above ground, using gaseous or li~uid 2~3~2 .
fuels such as propane, including over-water combustion such as that illustrated in U.S. Patent No. 5,055,050, Rogers et al. Gaseous combustion over water is shown in U.S. Patent No. 3,038,064.
Certain other aspects of fire fighting trainer pro-visions are illustrated in U.S. Patent Nos . 3,675,342;
4,303,396; 4,861,270, Ernst et al.; 4,983,124, Ernst et al.;
and 5,052,933, Rogers et al.
In the teaching of U.S. Patent No. 5,055,050 there is described a pilot flame device for igniting gaseous pro-pane fuel. The use of an electronic ignlter is contem~lated as an alternative source of lgnltion.
These simplistic provisions are evidently intended only to initiate ignit`ion, and evidently overlook the practical realities of the conditions of use of such a simu-lator, wherein large quantities of liquid propane are pro-jected through a water bath. The propane expands by some 900 volumes as it flashes to gas and is ignited, while the water of the bath is being rapidly supplemented by the liquid fire fighting agents such as foam as well as dry chemicals and water. As a conseguence, some of the gas is temporarily absorbed in the bath and overflows with the liquid contents of the bath. Meanwhile, there is~a continuing possibility of the extinguishing of the unProtected pilot flame by the in-coming extinguishants.
Experience by the present inventors over the last decade in evolving propane gas by pumping liquid propane through a water bath, in a fashion similar to that described in the foregoing Rogers et al. patent has shown that there exists a strong likelihood of the accumulation of propane gas in and about the apparatus. To this fact must be added the likelihood that the injected smell ingredient normally added to the propane to facilitate its detection becomes absorbed by the water present, so that the presence of such extraneous, non-combu~ted gas is not evident by smell.
2~931~2 These difficulties are compounded by the fact that stoichiometric or combustible gas concentrations may not be consistently and continuously present, but may evolve over time, subsequent to a burn.
Hence, there is an urgent need for the capability to ensure the continuing presence of an unquenched pilot flame of significant size, capable of igniting persisting gas traces both during and after the main burn, even when the apparatus is shut down, and the burn terminated.
DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION
~, The present invention provides a pilot igniter flame apparatus for use with a combustor tank, to provide a substantially inextinguishable pilot flame during and even subsequent to the presence of a conflagration in the tank, the pilot flame being substantially impervious to the ingress of fire fighting media into the tank.
In a preferred embodiment the pilot flame apparatus includes an independently controllable fuel supply, oxygen supply and independently energized ignition means. The oxygen supply generally comprises an air source, such as an air bottle.
The subject apparatus may be used in training personnel in the handling of a range of fire fighting equip-ment, and may be in the form of a portable embodiment, having a range of operation to simulate different degrees and different types of fire.
The use of a portable embodiment of conflagration generator enables people to be trained near, or even within their working locations, and avoids the expense of traveling to a fixed installation, with undue time lost from work, etc.
The apparatus may be used indoors or out of doors.
Also, it may be used in a variety of settings, in coniunction ' :~.
~3~
with other facilities to realistically simulate disaster scenarios such as aircraft crash sites, house fires, etc.
The size of fire pan stipulated by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) of the United States is 2-feet by 3-feet, for basic training.
The subject apparatus may be incorporated with this, or with a 4-foot by 6-foot combustor tank, which also is portable, and can be interconnected to create a variety of fire "signatures".
While the use of gaseous propane is preferred in the case of the pilot burner, it will be understood that gaseous or liquid propane is readily utilized in the combust-or tank.
In a preferred embodiment the subject pilot igniter flame apparatus may be installed at one end of the combustor tank, having the elongated slotted barrel of the igniter flame apparatus extending longitudinally into the tank in substantial coincidence with the main axis of the tank, and the downward facing slot of the igniter flame tube preferably located above, and in close proximity, from 1 to 3 inche~
above the surface of the~water in the combustor taink.
Protective side flanges extending downwardly from the flame tube slot serve to deflect and minimize the impact of impinging fire fighting agents, but allows the fire to be attacked from the most advantageous angle, regardless of the orientation of the flame tube.
The tank water level is regulated by an overflow stand pipe located within the tank such that the ingress of liquid and solid fire fighting agents into the tank does not effectively raise the level of liquid within the tank.
The presence of fire fighting agents on the surface of the water does not cause impingement into the tube, being effectively overcome by the pressure of the igniter flame, which exceeds atmospheric pressure, owing to the overpressure of the fuel and air supplies.
' 2~31~
The end of the igniter tube is open to atmosphere, tending to project an igniter flame therefrom, and precluding any choking tendency caused by temporary obfuscation of the fire tube slot or slots due to undue bubbling of the tank water contents under full fuel flow, maximum conflagration conditions.
It will be understood that in training personnel in fire fighting the simulator does not react in the manner of a - normal Class A, B, C, or D fire, because of the liquid sur-face dynamics generated through the release of vapour.
Accordingly, the efforts of a trainee/trainees in dealing with the fire requires regulation of the main fuel supply, as a conditioned feed back, to motivate and reward the trainee or trainees, as an indication of having followed correct pro-cedures. This responsive fuel regulation is effected by the operator of the simulator, who holds a manually operated regulating switch device, to effect such regulation of the main fuel supply, with consequent modulation of the fire.
The controlling device may be hand-held, with a single or mutli-position switch for various fuel supply set-tings. It also embodies a dead-man on/off switch, being held in the activated condition by the thumb or by the grasp of the operator. Release of the holder's grip, or relaxation of ~; thumb pressure shuts down~the burn.
While preferably having the switch hard-wired the ; use of radio control therefor, or the additional provision of radio controlled shut-down over-ride devices also is contem-plated.
~ The two modules of the sub~ect apparatus comprise:
; 1) the combustor tank (which can be cart-mounted~;
and~
2) the cart-mounted fuel and oxygen (air) supplies, with the ;igniter energy supply also mounted on the fueI ~cart, both carts being movable by hand.
-6- 2~93162 In a preferred embodlment the carts are readily handled by a single individual, thereby permitting a single trained opera-tor to transport and set up the module elements of the system, and to then exercise an effective supervisory train-ing role.
The carts may comprise the appliance-transporter type of cart, incorporating 2 wheels and with supporting tread belts to facilitate traversing stairs and loading and unloading from a plck-up truck.
The present invention thus provides a pilot ingiter flame apparatus for continuously igniting combustible gases in a combustion-hostile environment, the apparatus comprising a housing having a combustible gas source, an oxygen source and an ignition source connected thereto; a flame tube pro-jecting from the housing for the outward passage therethrough of combusting gas, the flame tube having an extended outlet area for the access of gases therethrough, the outlet being downwardly oriented in protective relation, in use, with the combusting gas, to prevent dousing thereof, in use.
The aforesaid apparatus preferably includes pro-tective baffle means to substantially preclude the impinge-ment of quenching media lnto the flame tube.
The above referred-to oxygen supply may comprise a compressed gas supply, such as bottled air.
The flame; igniter preferably may comprise an electronic ignition, such as a low voltage arrangement, in-cluding a power pack therefor.
The power pack may comprise a 12-volk battery.
The invention further comprises the aforesaid pilot igniter flame apparatus in combination with a water bath in-cluding combustlon-gas~evolving means.
The combined water bath and igniter may be car~-mounted, to facil~Ltate transportation thereof.
The combustible gas source, the oxygen source, and the self-contained igniter energy means may all be mounted .
2~93162 ;i upon a wheeled cart for ready transportation thereof. This may include a source of li~uid fuel for the combustor tank.
The foregoing system may include a remote control ~ in controlling relation with the burner system, to terminate 'I flame propagating operation thereof.
~ The present invention further provides a dead-man I remote controlling means connected by cable to the apparatus.
¦ The present invention further comprises a conflag-~ ration simulator system, having a substantially inextinguish-j able pilot flame generator ~or use in combination with a com-} bustor water bath, the operation thereof comprising the steps Of:
locating the bath in a desired location for fire ~ighting, and filling the bath with water to a predetermined depth; ;~
connecting the fuel supply to the bath;
an oxygen supply and an ingition energy source to the pilot flame~generator;
activating the ignition energy source and the valve means which establishes fuel supply and the oxygen supply to establish a pilot flame adjacent the surface of the water;
activating burner fuel supply, whereby fuel rises above the water and is ignited into a conflagration; and the pllot flame being maintained alight during activation of the burner fuel supply, to ensure completed combustion of substantially all fuel released from the burner fuel supply.
A hand-held wand igniter may also be used to inltiate combustion.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Certain~ embodlments of the present invention are described herein, without limitation of the invention there-to, reference being made to the accompanying drawings where-in;
2~93162 Figure 1 is a perspective view of a cart-mounted combustor tank;
Figure 2 is a schematic side view, in section, of the tank portion of the Figure 1 embodiment;
Figure 3 is a partial schematic front end view taken at 3-3 of Figure 2.
Figure 4 is a schematic rear view of the cart-mounted control module, with fuel, air and ignition provi-sions;
Figure 5 is a perspective view from the rear show- `~
ing the tank-module and the supply and control module in con-nected relation; and Figure 6 is a schematic view of the system of the present invention.
.
BEST MODE OF CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Referring to Figures 1, 2, and 3, the combustor module 10 comprises a tank 12 mounted upon cart 14, with igniter and burner control housing 16 at the rear end, and ; the flame tube 17 of the pilot igniter projecting forwardly thereof. The main burn fuel supply pipe 20 also extends from the housing 16, being located at the bottom of the tank. A
weir pipe 22 serves as the overflow drain, and determines the water level within the tank 12.
The flame tube 17 is provided with protective side flanges 26, to limit the ingress of impinging fire suppres-sants, laterally, into the tube 17.
Propane~ connection 27, air connection 29 and electrical connection 30 extend rearwardly of the housing 16.
A removable stainless steel flame guard cover 24 is shown in phantom.
Referring~to Figures 4 and 5, a second cart module 32 includes electrical control cabinet 34 with a 115-volt battery charger 36 for 12-volt battery 37.
:~::~ : ` ::
~ ` ~
2~31~2 ~ ~
g The arrows "A" indicate the preferred "attack"
directions of the trainees, along the sides of the tank 12, being directed normal to the main axis of the pilot flame tube 17, as the suggested direction, but not being limited to i that angle of attack. ~ `
The cart 32 also carries propane bottle 42, and air bottle 44, which connect to quick disconnect hose connectors ~ i 27 and 29 of the tank cart module 10.
A remote control 40 connects with the tank-cart `
module, to connector 45, in shut down relation therewith. ` ~i Referring to Figure 6, the control system 16 is in controlling relation with the pilot burner of flame tube 17.
A drain valve 60 serves to empty the tank 12.
The propane tank 42 has outlet valve 65. Dual feed lines connect with fast acting, quarter turn close off cocks 67, which connect with pressure regulating valves 70. One `
feed line 69 connects with hand-held light-up wand 74, which is equipped with an adjustable pressure regulating shut off valve 72, for manual light-up of the system.
The other propane gas feed line 71 connects with the control housing 16, through quick disconnect 27, to 2 electrical solenoid shut-o~f valves 57, providing a double-block positive gas shut-off, actuated by the dead-man control so.
In use, a trained operator can readily off-load and position the 2 modules of the system in a desired training location. The modules are readily connected together and prepared for action~. Such preparation includes filling the cumbustor tank 12, to the overflow level of weir stand-pipe 22.
With the trainees suitably garbed and equipped with the prescribed fire flghting equipment suited to their class of duty, the fuel pressure regulating valves are set to a pre-determined setting to give an appropriate level of burn.
The pilot flame is then usually ignited, and its purpose explained to the trainees.
1, '-- .
2~3~2 --1 o--, ¦ The main burner gas supply is then turned on, and 3 the extinguishing exercise commenced. During this exercise ', the operator retains the dead-man switch in his hand in a de-activated condition, so that the burn can proceed.
In some instances it may be advisable for the operator to initially demonstrate the total effectiveness of the dead-man control to a neophyte group of trainees, to overcome any undue fear of the situation. During the burn, as the trainees show a certain level of proficiency commen-surate with their expected performance, the operative will reduce the intensity of the burn, as a feed-back to "reward"
the participants for their efforts.
¦ In the illustrated embodiment the fuel supply and associated distribution and control arrangement is directQd to a single propane cylinder, arranged to deliver gaseous propane. HowevQr, the fuel supply and control arrangements may be readily modified by those skilled in the art in order to accommodate the provision of li~uid propane to the main burn fuel supply pipe 20.
It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the existence of an unquenchable pilot light adds sign-ificantly to the safety of such proceedings, particularly in vlew of the intense conflagration that can ensue with a maximum burn.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
This lnvention has significant safety significance, as well as serving as a reassurance for neophyte trainee fire fighters. It also is conservative of man-power, in its operation.
"' ' "
~ ':' ' `
,
The size of fire pan stipulated by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) of the United States is 2-feet by 3-feet, for basic training.
The subject apparatus may be incorporated with this, or with a 4-foot by 6-foot combustor tank, which also is portable, and can be interconnected to create a variety of fire "signatures".
While the use of gaseous propane is preferred in the case of the pilot burner, it will be understood that gaseous or liquid propane is readily utilized in the combust-or tank.
In a preferred embodiment the subject pilot igniter flame apparatus may be installed at one end of the combustor tank, having the elongated slotted barrel of the igniter flame apparatus extending longitudinally into the tank in substantial coincidence with the main axis of the tank, and the downward facing slot of the igniter flame tube preferably located above, and in close proximity, from 1 to 3 inche~
above the surface of the~water in the combustor taink.
Protective side flanges extending downwardly from the flame tube slot serve to deflect and minimize the impact of impinging fire fighting agents, but allows the fire to be attacked from the most advantageous angle, regardless of the orientation of the flame tube.
The tank water level is regulated by an overflow stand pipe located within the tank such that the ingress of liquid and solid fire fighting agents into the tank does not effectively raise the level of liquid within the tank.
The presence of fire fighting agents on the surface of the water does not cause impingement into the tube, being effectively overcome by the pressure of the igniter flame, which exceeds atmospheric pressure, owing to the overpressure of the fuel and air supplies.
' 2~31~
The end of the igniter tube is open to atmosphere, tending to project an igniter flame therefrom, and precluding any choking tendency caused by temporary obfuscation of the fire tube slot or slots due to undue bubbling of the tank water contents under full fuel flow, maximum conflagration conditions.
It will be understood that in training personnel in fire fighting the simulator does not react in the manner of a - normal Class A, B, C, or D fire, because of the liquid sur-face dynamics generated through the release of vapour.
Accordingly, the efforts of a trainee/trainees in dealing with the fire requires regulation of the main fuel supply, as a conditioned feed back, to motivate and reward the trainee or trainees, as an indication of having followed correct pro-cedures. This responsive fuel regulation is effected by the operator of the simulator, who holds a manually operated regulating switch device, to effect such regulation of the main fuel supply, with consequent modulation of the fire.
The controlling device may be hand-held, with a single or mutli-position switch for various fuel supply set-tings. It also embodies a dead-man on/off switch, being held in the activated condition by the thumb or by the grasp of the operator. Release of the holder's grip, or relaxation of ~; thumb pressure shuts down~the burn.
While preferably having the switch hard-wired the ; use of radio control therefor, or the additional provision of radio controlled shut-down over-ride devices also is contem-plated.
~ The two modules of the sub~ect apparatus comprise:
; 1) the combustor tank (which can be cart-mounted~;
and~
2) the cart-mounted fuel and oxygen (air) supplies, with the ;igniter energy supply also mounted on the fueI ~cart, both carts being movable by hand.
-6- 2~93162 In a preferred embodlment the carts are readily handled by a single individual, thereby permitting a single trained opera-tor to transport and set up the module elements of the system, and to then exercise an effective supervisory train-ing role.
The carts may comprise the appliance-transporter type of cart, incorporating 2 wheels and with supporting tread belts to facilitate traversing stairs and loading and unloading from a plck-up truck.
The present invention thus provides a pilot ingiter flame apparatus for continuously igniting combustible gases in a combustion-hostile environment, the apparatus comprising a housing having a combustible gas source, an oxygen source and an ignition source connected thereto; a flame tube pro-jecting from the housing for the outward passage therethrough of combusting gas, the flame tube having an extended outlet area for the access of gases therethrough, the outlet being downwardly oriented in protective relation, in use, with the combusting gas, to prevent dousing thereof, in use.
The aforesaid apparatus preferably includes pro-tective baffle means to substantially preclude the impinge-ment of quenching media lnto the flame tube.
The above referred-to oxygen supply may comprise a compressed gas supply, such as bottled air.
The flame; igniter preferably may comprise an electronic ignition, such as a low voltage arrangement, in-cluding a power pack therefor.
The power pack may comprise a 12-volk battery.
The invention further comprises the aforesaid pilot igniter flame apparatus in combination with a water bath in-cluding combustlon-gas~evolving means.
The combined water bath and igniter may be car~-mounted, to facil~Ltate transportation thereof.
The combustible gas source, the oxygen source, and the self-contained igniter energy means may all be mounted .
2~93162 ;i upon a wheeled cart for ready transportation thereof. This may include a source of li~uid fuel for the combustor tank.
The foregoing system may include a remote control ~ in controlling relation with the burner system, to terminate 'I flame propagating operation thereof.
~ The present invention further provides a dead-man I remote controlling means connected by cable to the apparatus.
¦ The present invention further comprises a conflag-~ ration simulator system, having a substantially inextinguish-j able pilot flame generator ~or use in combination with a com-} bustor water bath, the operation thereof comprising the steps Of:
locating the bath in a desired location for fire ~ighting, and filling the bath with water to a predetermined depth; ;~
connecting the fuel supply to the bath;
an oxygen supply and an ingition energy source to the pilot flame~generator;
activating the ignition energy source and the valve means which establishes fuel supply and the oxygen supply to establish a pilot flame adjacent the surface of the water;
activating burner fuel supply, whereby fuel rises above the water and is ignited into a conflagration; and the pllot flame being maintained alight during activation of the burner fuel supply, to ensure completed combustion of substantially all fuel released from the burner fuel supply.
A hand-held wand igniter may also be used to inltiate combustion.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Certain~ embodlments of the present invention are described herein, without limitation of the invention there-to, reference being made to the accompanying drawings where-in;
2~93162 Figure 1 is a perspective view of a cart-mounted combustor tank;
Figure 2 is a schematic side view, in section, of the tank portion of the Figure 1 embodiment;
Figure 3 is a partial schematic front end view taken at 3-3 of Figure 2.
Figure 4 is a schematic rear view of the cart-mounted control module, with fuel, air and ignition provi-sions;
Figure 5 is a perspective view from the rear show- `~
ing the tank-module and the supply and control module in con-nected relation; and Figure 6 is a schematic view of the system of the present invention.
.
BEST MODE OF CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Referring to Figures 1, 2, and 3, the combustor module 10 comprises a tank 12 mounted upon cart 14, with igniter and burner control housing 16 at the rear end, and ; the flame tube 17 of the pilot igniter projecting forwardly thereof. The main burn fuel supply pipe 20 also extends from the housing 16, being located at the bottom of the tank. A
weir pipe 22 serves as the overflow drain, and determines the water level within the tank 12.
The flame tube 17 is provided with protective side flanges 26, to limit the ingress of impinging fire suppres-sants, laterally, into the tube 17.
Propane~ connection 27, air connection 29 and electrical connection 30 extend rearwardly of the housing 16.
A removable stainless steel flame guard cover 24 is shown in phantom.
Referring~to Figures 4 and 5, a second cart module 32 includes electrical control cabinet 34 with a 115-volt battery charger 36 for 12-volt battery 37.
:~::~ : ` ::
~ ` ~
2~31~2 ~ ~
g The arrows "A" indicate the preferred "attack"
directions of the trainees, along the sides of the tank 12, being directed normal to the main axis of the pilot flame tube 17, as the suggested direction, but not being limited to i that angle of attack. ~ `
The cart 32 also carries propane bottle 42, and air bottle 44, which connect to quick disconnect hose connectors ~ i 27 and 29 of the tank cart module 10.
A remote control 40 connects with the tank-cart `
module, to connector 45, in shut down relation therewith. ` ~i Referring to Figure 6, the control system 16 is in controlling relation with the pilot burner of flame tube 17.
A drain valve 60 serves to empty the tank 12.
The propane tank 42 has outlet valve 65. Dual feed lines connect with fast acting, quarter turn close off cocks 67, which connect with pressure regulating valves 70. One `
feed line 69 connects with hand-held light-up wand 74, which is equipped with an adjustable pressure regulating shut off valve 72, for manual light-up of the system.
The other propane gas feed line 71 connects with the control housing 16, through quick disconnect 27, to 2 electrical solenoid shut-o~f valves 57, providing a double-block positive gas shut-off, actuated by the dead-man control so.
In use, a trained operator can readily off-load and position the 2 modules of the system in a desired training location. The modules are readily connected together and prepared for action~. Such preparation includes filling the cumbustor tank 12, to the overflow level of weir stand-pipe 22.
With the trainees suitably garbed and equipped with the prescribed fire flghting equipment suited to their class of duty, the fuel pressure regulating valves are set to a pre-determined setting to give an appropriate level of burn.
The pilot flame is then usually ignited, and its purpose explained to the trainees.
1, '-- .
2~3~2 --1 o--, ¦ The main burner gas supply is then turned on, and 3 the extinguishing exercise commenced. During this exercise ', the operator retains the dead-man switch in his hand in a de-activated condition, so that the burn can proceed.
In some instances it may be advisable for the operator to initially demonstrate the total effectiveness of the dead-man control to a neophyte group of trainees, to overcome any undue fear of the situation. During the burn, as the trainees show a certain level of proficiency commen-surate with their expected performance, the operative will reduce the intensity of the burn, as a feed-back to "reward"
the participants for their efforts.
¦ In the illustrated embodiment the fuel supply and associated distribution and control arrangement is directQd to a single propane cylinder, arranged to deliver gaseous propane. HowevQr, the fuel supply and control arrangements may be readily modified by those skilled in the art in order to accommodate the provision of li~uid propane to the main burn fuel supply pipe 20.
It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the existence of an unquenchable pilot light adds sign-ificantly to the safety of such proceedings, particularly in vlew of the intense conflagration that can ensue with a maximum burn.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
This lnvention has significant safety significance, as well as serving as a reassurance for neophyte trainee fire fighters. It also is conservative of man-power, in its operation.
"' ' "
~ ':' ' `
,
Claims (9)
1. A pilot igniter flame apparatus for continuously igniting combustible gases in a hostile environment, comprising a housing having a combustible gas source, an oxygen source and an ignition source connected thereto; a flame tube projecting from the housing for the outward passage therethrough of combusting gas, the flame tube having an extended outlet area for the access of gas therethrough, said outlet being at least partially downwardly oriented in protective relation with said combusting gas.
2. The flame igniter as set forth in claim 1, including protective baffle means to substantially preclude the impingement of quenching media into said tube during normal usage.
3. The flame igniter as set forth in claim 1, said oxygen source comprising an air supply, said combustible gas source comprising a gas cylinder.
4. The flame igniter as set forth in claim 3, said ignition source comprising an electronic igniter, and electrical energy supply means connected therewith.
5. The flame igniter as set forth in claim 4, in combination with a gas-evolving water bath; said gas cylinder and said electrical energy supply means being mounted upon a cart, for transportation therewith.
6. The combination as set forth in claim 5, including remote control means in controlling relation with said apparatus, to terminate flame propagating operation thereof.
7. The combination as set forth in claim 6, said remote control means including a portable control switch having a dead-man operation, and connecting by cable to said apparatus.
8. The combination as set forth in claim 5, said gas evolving water bath having a fluid fuel supply in liquid form connected therewith.
9. A conflagration simulator system having a substantially inextinguishable pilot flame generator for use in combination with a portable combustor water bath, the operation thereof comprising the steps of:
locating the water bath in a desired location for fire fighting and filling it with water to a predetermined level; making a first fuel connection to the bath; connecting an oxygen supply and an ignition energy source thereto;
activating the ignition energy source and the connected fuel supply and oxygen supply to establish a pilot flame adjacent the surface of the water; and activating the connected fuel supply, whereby fuel rises through the water and is ignited into a conflagration; said pilot flame being maintained alight during activation of said connected fuel supply.
locating the water bath in a desired location for fire fighting and filling it with water to a predetermined level; making a first fuel connection to the bath; connecting an oxygen supply and an ignition energy source thereto;
activating the ignition energy source and the connected fuel supply and oxygen supply to establish a pilot flame adjacent the surface of the water; and activating the connected fuel supply, whereby fuel rises through the water and is ignited into a conflagration; said pilot flame being maintained alight during activation of said connected fuel supply.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2093162 CA2093162A1 (en) | 1993-04-01 | 1993-04-01 | Fire simulator for fire fighter training |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2093162 CA2093162A1 (en) | 1993-04-01 | 1993-04-01 | Fire simulator for fire fighter training |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2093162A1 true CA2093162A1 (en) | 1994-10-02 |
Family
ID=4151401
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2093162 Abandoned CA2093162A1 (en) | 1993-04-01 | 1993-04-01 | Fire simulator for fire fighter training |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2093162A1 (en) |
Cited By (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN106110557A (en) * | 2016-07-14 | 2016-11-16 | 浙江刚玉智能科技有限公司 | Fire-fighting analog platform fire device |
| CN106166363A (en) * | 2016-07-14 | 2016-11-30 | 浙江刚玉智能科技有限公司 | Fire-fighting simulation shelf fire device |
| WO2017181009A1 (en) * | 2016-04-15 | 2017-10-19 | Lion Group, Inc. | Modular fire training simulator |
-
1993
- 1993-04-01 CA CA 2093162 patent/CA2093162A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2017181009A1 (en) * | 2016-04-15 | 2017-10-19 | Lion Group, Inc. | Modular fire training simulator |
| CN106110557A (en) * | 2016-07-14 | 2016-11-16 | 浙江刚玉智能科技有限公司 | Fire-fighting analog platform fire device |
| CN106166363A (en) * | 2016-07-14 | 2016-11-30 | 浙江刚玉智能科技有限公司 | Fire-fighting simulation shelf fire device |
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