CA2255411A1 - Fire protection device - Google Patents
Fire protection device Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2255411A1 CA2255411A1 CA 2255411 CA2255411A CA2255411A1 CA 2255411 A1 CA2255411 A1 CA 2255411A1 CA 2255411 CA2255411 CA 2255411 CA 2255411 A CA2255411 A CA 2255411A CA 2255411 A1 CA2255411 A1 CA 2255411A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- fire extinguisher
- safety device
- audio system
- instructions
- sign
- 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.)
- Abandoned
Links
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A62—LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
- A62C—FIRE-FIGHTING
- A62C13/00—Portable extinguishers which are permanently pressurised or pressurised immediately before use
- A62C13/76—Details or accessories
- A62C13/78—Suspending or supporting devices
Landscapes
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Public Health (AREA)
- Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
- Emergency Management (AREA)
- Fire-Extinguishing By Fire Departments, And Fire-Extinguishing Equipment And Control Thereof (AREA)
Abstract
A safety device provides audible instructions for operation of a fire extinguisher. The device has a support for a fire extinguisher, a detector, e.g. a switch, for detecting when the fire extinguisher has been removed from the support, and an audio system for providing instructions on the use of the fire extinguisher. Preferably, the device has a visual sign with instructions for use of the fire extinguisher as well as the audio system for giving similar information. The audio system may have prerecorded messages and/or have recording means and play-back means to provide user-defined messages.
Description
Docket No. 98-3876 FIRE PROTECTION DEVICE
Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a fire protection device. In particular it relates to fire extinguishers and signs with emergency instructions thereon.
Background to the Invention There are many kinds of signs with emergency instructions thereon. For example, in most commercial and manufacturing buildings there are signs with notices relating to evacuation of the building in the event of an emergency such as a fire. Very often, there are signs adjacent to fire extinguishers, with visual instructions regarding how to operate the extinguishers.
Alternatively, or additionally, fire extinguishers may have labels with instructions regarding how to operate the extinguishers.
Visual signs, although important, are usually insufficient, either because the printing is too small to notice in an emergency or because, in the heat of the moment there is no time to read the message. This is recognized by safety officers and Fire Chiefs, who advocate regular training for building occupants.
However, many people do not take such training, and even those who take such training may have forgotten the instructions given during the training. During an emergency, time is of the essence and it is not realistic to expect people to stop and read instructions before attempting to use a fire extinguisher. The present invention is directed to providing an additional aid to users of fire extinguishers, which does not require the user to stop and read instructions.
Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a fire protection device. In particular it relates to fire extinguishers and signs with emergency instructions thereon.
Background to the Invention There are many kinds of signs with emergency instructions thereon. For example, in most commercial and manufacturing buildings there are signs with notices relating to evacuation of the building in the event of an emergency such as a fire. Very often, there are signs adjacent to fire extinguishers, with visual instructions regarding how to operate the extinguishers.
Alternatively, or additionally, fire extinguishers may have labels with instructions regarding how to operate the extinguishers.
Visual signs, although important, are usually insufficient, either because the printing is too small to notice in an emergency or because, in the heat of the moment there is no time to read the message. This is recognized by safety officers and Fire Chiefs, who advocate regular training for building occupants.
However, many people do not take such training, and even those who take such training may have forgotten the instructions given during the training. During an emergency, time is of the essence and it is not realistic to expect people to stop and read instructions before attempting to use a fire extinguisher. The present invention is directed to providing an additional aid to users of fire extinguishers, which does not require the user to stop and read instructions.
Warning signs with synthetic speech synthesizers are known. For example, U.S. Patent 4 453 222 to K.A.
Goszyk, which issued June 5, 1984 discloses an illuminated sign, e.g. an Exit sign, with a user programable speech warning device. The warning device may be triggered by a smoke alarm or a power failure.
The warning device may be programmed with several phrases, depending on the initiating trigger, e.g. power failure.
U.S. Patent 5 349 338 to Routman et al., which issued September 20, 1994 discloses a fire alarm system which has recorded vocal warning messages. The recorded message is triggered by a fire detector.
The present invention provides another aid for use in emergency situations.
Summary of the Invention Accordingly the present invention provides a safety device comprising:
a) an audio system for providing audible instructions for operation of a fire extinguisher; and b) support means for supporting the fire extinguisher, and a detector for detecting when the fire extinguisher has been removed from the support means, said detector having control means for activating the audio system in order to cause audible instructions to be given when the fire extinguisher is removed from the support means.
In one embodiment, the safety device additionally has a sign for a fire extinguisher, said sign having instructions for operation of the fire extinguisher thereon.
In one embodiment, the support means is a support bracket.
In another embodiment, the audio system comprises recording means and play-back means to provide user-defined messages.
In a further embodiment, the audio system comprises means to give pre-programmed messages.
In yet another embodiment, the audio system is battery operated.
In another embodiment, the detector is a spring loaded switch.
In a further embodiment the safety device has a fire extinguisher detachably associated with the device.
A further aspect of the invention provides a fire extinguisher having a battery operated audio system for providing audible instructions, and means for detecting when the fire extinguisher has been removed from a place of storage and for actuating the audio system.
In one embodiment, the place of storage is a storage bracket and the fire extinguisher has a switch which detects when the fire extinguisher has been removed from the bracket, said switch also initiating actuation of the audio system.
Brief Description of the Drawings Figure 1 is a perspective view of the front of a sign, audio system and fire extinguisher mounting bracket.
Figures 2 and 3 are electrical circuit diagrams showing audio recorder and audio amplifier circuits respectively.
Figure 4 shows a fire extinguisher with an audio system and a switch therefor.
Goszyk, which issued June 5, 1984 discloses an illuminated sign, e.g. an Exit sign, with a user programable speech warning device. The warning device may be triggered by a smoke alarm or a power failure.
The warning device may be programmed with several phrases, depending on the initiating trigger, e.g. power failure.
U.S. Patent 5 349 338 to Routman et al., which issued September 20, 1994 discloses a fire alarm system which has recorded vocal warning messages. The recorded message is triggered by a fire detector.
The present invention provides another aid for use in emergency situations.
Summary of the Invention Accordingly the present invention provides a safety device comprising:
a) an audio system for providing audible instructions for operation of a fire extinguisher; and b) support means for supporting the fire extinguisher, and a detector for detecting when the fire extinguisher has been removed from the support means, said detector having control means for activating the audio system in order to cause audible instructions to be given when the fire extinguisher is removed from the support means.
In one embodiment, the safety device additionally has a sign for a fire extinguisher, said sign having instructions for operation of the fire extinguisher thereon.
In one embodiment, the support means is a support bracket.
In another embodiment, the audio system comprises recording means and play-back means to provide user-defined messages.
In a further embodiment, the audio system comprises means to give pre-programmed messages.
In yet another embodiment, the audio system is battery operated.
In another embodiment, the detector is a spring loaded switch.
In a further embodiment the safety device has a fire extinguisher detachably associated with the device.
A further aspect of the invention provides a fire extinguisher having a battery operated audio system for providing audible instructions, and means for detecting when the fire extinguisher has been removed from a place of storage and for actuating the audio system.
In one embodiment, the place of storage is a storage bracket and the fire extinguisher has a switch which detects when the fire extinguisher has been removed from the bracket, said switch also initiating actuation of the audio system.
Brief Description of the Drawings Figure 1 is a perspective view of the front of a sign, audio system and fire extinguisher mounting bracket.
Figures 2 and 3 are electrical circuit diagrams showing audio recorder and audio amplifier circuits respectively.
Figure 4 shows a fire extinguisher with an audio system and a switch therefor.
Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments Figure 1 shows a sign 11 with instructions how to use a fire extinguisher (not shown). Attached to sign 11 is a mounting and support bracket 12 for holding the fire extinguisher, and a case 13 which encloses an audio system (not shown). Mounting bracket 12 has U-shaped prongs 14 for holding the neck (not shown) of the fire extinguisher. Mounting bracket 12 also has a switch 15, e.g. a spring biased button switch, the function of which is described hereinafter. Case 13 has electronic circuitry therein (not shown), a speaker 16 and a battery (not shown) for operating the electronic circuitry. The switch 15 is connected to the electronic circuitry and battery as will be described with reference to Figure 2 and 3.
Figures 2 and 3 show electronic circuitry which is suitable for use with the present invention. The circuitry is illustrative and those skilled in the art will be able to select suitable values for the components shown. Typically, the control chip U2 is a chip identified as UM935203 and the memory chips U3 and U4 are chips identified as 1N41256P-15. Alternatively, those skilled in the art can easily design and construct electronic circuitry with which to effect the invention, e.g. by reference to the aforementioned patents to Goszyk and Routman et al.
The circuitry may be operated from a battery (not shown), or from mains electricity. If mains electricity is used, then a battery back-up is highly desirable in the event of a power failure or in the event that the power lines are cut. If mains electricity is used, it is preferable that a rectifier/transformer be used in order to operate the circuitry with 12-16 vDC.
Under normal circumstances, the fire extinguisher is suspended, e.g. by the neck of the extinguisher, from the mounting bracket 12. The neck fits snugly between U-shaped prongs 14 and presses against spring loaded switch 15. In this position, switch 15 prevents actuation of the electronic circuitry. The visual and written instructions on sign 11 can be read at leisure by anyone in front of the sign. When the extinguisher is removed from the mounting bracket, the spring biasing in switch 15 causes switch 15 to close and allow current to pass from the electrical source, e.g. a battery, to the electronic circuitry. Actuation of the circuitry causes spoken messages to be delivered through speaker 16. The spoken messages may be identical to the messages on sign 11 or may be more detailed instructions. For example, the spoken message may also encourage the user to stay calm while spraying the fire with fire dousing chemicals or, if the fire is getting out of hand, to evacuate.
Preferably the device has circuitry or switching which permits modifying the volume of the speaker.
Preferably, a latch ensures that power is continuously sent to the speaker, whether the extinguisher is replaced or not. This prevents a user or other person from disabling the speaker. The device may also be equipped with an anti-tamper device to prevent tampering with the case 13.
Other types of detection device may be used, e.g.
membrane switches, hinge lever subminiature switches, infra-red and light beam sensors.
Figure 4 shows the top of an extinguisher 21 with a spring loaded switch 22 thereon. Spring loaded switch 22 is connected to electronic circuitry (not shown) in case 23, which also has a speaker 24. The advantage of the extinguisher 21, so equipped with the speaker system, is that the verbal instructions are given to the user at the place of use rather than having the instructions emanating from a speaker adjacent the mounting bracket for the fire extinguisher. Fire extinguisher 21 has a body 25 in which fire fighting fluid resides. The body has a neck 26, on top of which is secured a valve head 27. Valve head 27 has a distribution nozzle 28 for directing fire extinguishing fluid towards the fire. Valve head 27 also has a valve actuator handle 29, which pivots about pivot 30. Valve actuator handle 29 rests on a plunger (not shown) which actuates a valve (not shown) inside valve head 27. In order to prevent premature actuation of the valve, valve actuator handle 29 is temporarily held away from the plunger by means of prop 31. Prop 31 has a lever handle 31. Prop 31 and lever 32 are pivotable about pivot 33. At the conjunction of valve head 27 and neck 26 there is a collar 34, beneath which there is an annular collar space 35. The fire extinguisher 21 may be mounted on a U-shaped bracket (not shown), the forks of which fit around space 35 so that collar 34 rests on the bracket.
Case 23 has electronic circuitry and a battery within. Switch 22 is connected to the battery and circuitry in a similar manner to that described with respect to Figures 1-3. Case 23 is annularly disposed about neck 26 and can either be fitted to the fire extinguisher 21 at the time of assembly of the fire extinguisher or may be retrofitted.
In operation, the fire extinguisher is removed from the bracket. Lever 32 is pulled away from body 25 so that lever 32 pivots about pivot 33. Prop 31 is thus moved from its supporting position for valve actuation handle 29. At the same time, prop 31 pushes on switch 22. Switch 22 is then caused to actuate the electronic circuitry, so that spoken instructions emanate from speaker 24. Handle 29 may then be moved downwardly, pivoting about pivot 30, so that the plunger (not shown) is forced downwardly to release the valve (not shown).
Release of the valve allows fire fighting fluid to spurt through nozzle 28. As will be clear, the spoken instructions are given as the user is preparing to fight the fire and the instructions continue to be given as the user moves towards the fire and uses the extinguisher. The user does not have to rely on written instructions on a sign or label, either adjacent to the bracket or on the extinguisher itself.
Figures 2 and 3 show electronic circuitry which is suitable for use with the present invention. The circuitry is illustrative and those skilled in the art will be able to select suitable values for the components shown. Typically, the control chip U2 is a chip identified as UM935203 and the memory chips U3 and U4 are chips identified as 1N41256P-15. Alternatively, those skilled in the art can easily design and construct electronic circuitry with which to effect the invention, e.g. by reference to the aforementioned patents to Goszyk and Routman et al.
The circuitry may be operated from a battery (not shown), or from mains electricity. If mains electricity is used, then a battery back-up is highly desirable in the event of a power failure or in the event that the power lines are cut. If mains electricity is used, it is preferable that a rectifier/transformer be used in order to operate the circuitry with 12-16 vDC.
Under normal circumstances, the fire extinguisher is suspended, e.g. by the neck of the extinguisher, from the mounting bracket 12. The neck fits snugly between U-shaped prongs 14 and presses against spring loaded switch 15. In this position, switch 15 prevents actuation of the electronic circuitry. The visual and written instructions on sign 11 can be read at leisure by anyone in front of the sign. When the extinguisher is removed from the mounting bracket, the spring biasing in switch 15 causes switch 15 to close and allow current to pass from the electrical source, e.g. a battery, to the electronic circuitry. Actuation of the circuitry causes spoken messages to be delivered through speaker 16. The spoken messages may be identical to the messages on sign 11 or may be more detailed instructions. For example, the spoken message may also encourage the user to stay calm while spraying the fire with fire dousing chemicals or, if the fire is getting out of hand, to evacuate.
Preferably the device has circuitry or switching which permits modifying the volume of the speaker.
Preferably, a latch ensures that power is continuously sent to the speaker, whether the extinguisher is replaced or not. This prevents a user or other person from disabling the speaker. The device may also be equipped with an anti-tamper device to prevent tampering with the case 13.
Other types of detection device may be used, e.g.
membrane switches, hinge lever subminiature switches, infra-red and light beam sensors.
Figure 4 shows the top of an extinguisher 21 with a spring loaded switch 22 thereon. Spring loaded switch 22 is connected to electronic circuitry (not shown) in case 23, which also has a speaker 24. The advantage of the extinguisher 21, so equipped with the speaker system, is that the verbal instructions are given to the user at the place of use rather than having the instructions emanating from a speaker adjacent the mounting bracket for the fire extinguisher. Fire extinguisher 21 has a body 25 in which fire fighting fluid resides. The body has a neck 26, on top of which is secured a valve head 27. Valve head 27 has a distribution nozzle 28 for directing fire extinguishing fluid towards the fire. Valve head 27 also has a valve actuator handle 29, which pivots about pivot 30. Valve actuator handle 29 rests on a plunger (not shown) which actuates a valve (not shown) inside valve head 27. In order to prevent premature actuation of the valve, valve actuator handle 29 is temporarily held away from the plunger by means of prop 31. Prop 31 has a lever handle 31. Prop 31 and lever 32 are pivotable about pivot 33. At the conjunction of valve head 27 and neck 26 there is a collar 34, beneath which there is an annular collar space 35. The fire extinguisher 21 may be mounted on a U-shaped bracket (not shown), the forks of which fit around space 35 so that collar 34 rests on the bracket.
Case 23 has electronic circuitry and a battery within. Switch 22 is connected to the battery and circuitry in a similar manner to that described with respect to Figures 1-3. Case 23 is annularly disposed about neck 26 and can either be fitted to the fire extinguisher 21 at the time of assembly of the fire extinguisher or may be retrofitted.
In operation, the fire extinguisher is removed from the bracket. Lever 32 is pulled away from body 25 so that lever 32 pivots about pivot 33. Prop 31 is thus moved from its supporting position for valve actuation handle 29. At the same time, prop 31 pushes on switch 22. Switch 22 is then caused to actuate the electronic circuitry, so that spoken instructions emanate from speaker 24. Handle 29 may then be moved downwardly, pivoting about pivot 30, so that the plunger (not shown) is forced downwardly to release the valve (not shown).
Release of the valve allows fire fighting fluid to spurt through nozzle 28. As will be clear, the spoken instructions are given as the user is preparing to fight the fire and the instructions continue to be given as the user moves towards the fire and uses the extinguisher. The user does not have to rely on written instructions on a sign or label, either adjacent to the bracket or on the extinguisher itself.
Claims (13)
1. A safety device comprising:
a) an audio system for providing audible instructions for operation of a fire extinguisher; and b) support means for supporting the fire extinguisher, and a detector for detecting when the fire extinguisher has been removed from the support means, said detector having control means for activating the audio system in order to cause audible instructions to be given when the fire extinguisher is removed from the support means.
a) an audio system for providing audible instructions for operation of a fire extinguisher; and b) support means for supporting the fire extinguisher, and a detector for detecting when the fire extinguisher has been removed from the support means, said detector having control means for activating the audio system in order to cause audible instructions to be given when the fire extinguisher is removed from the support means.
2. A safety device according to Claim 1 wherein the support means is a support bracket.
3. A safety device according to Claim 1 wherein the audio system comprises recording means and play-back means to provide user-defined messages.
4. A safety device according to Claim 1 wherein the audio system comprises means to give pre-programmed messages.
5. A safety device according to Claim 1 wherein the audio system is battery operated.
6. A safety device according to Claim 1 wherein the detector is a spring loaded switch.
7. A safety device according to Claim 1 which additionally has a sign associated therewith, said sign having instructions for operation of the fire extinguisher thereon.
8. A safety device according to Claim 3 which additionally has a sign associated therewith, said sign having instructions for operation of the fire extinguisher thereon.
9. A safety device according to Claim 4 which additionally has a sign associated therewith, said sign having instructions for operation of the fire extinguisher thereon.
10. A safety device according to Claim 1 which additionally has a fire extinguisher sign associated therewith.
11. A safety device according to Claim 8 which additionally has a fire extinguisher sign associated therewith.
12. A safety device according to Claim 9 which additionally has a fire extinguisher sign associated therewith.
13. A safety device according to Claim 1 wherein the fire extinguisher has the operated audio system for providing audible instructions attached to the fire extinguisher and the audio system is powered by a battery.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2255411 CA2255411A1 (en) | 1998-12-11 | 1998-12-11 | Fire protection device |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2255411 CA2255411A1 (en) | 1998-12-11 | 1998-12-11 | Fire protection device |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2255411A1 true CA2255411A1 (en) | 2000-06-11 |
Family
ID=29425777
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2255411 Abandoned CA2255411A1 (en) | 1998-12-11 | 1998-12-11 | Fire protection device |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2255411A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GB2465061A (en) * | 2008-11-05 | 2010-05-12 | Kathleen Dingley | Fire extinguishing device |
-
1998
- 1998-12-11 CA CA 2255411 patent/CA2255411A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GB2465061A (en) * | 2008-11-05 | 2010-05-12 | Kathleen Dingley | Fire extinguishing device |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Dead |