WO2013029614A2

WO2013029614A2 - A nozzle device for a fire extinguisher gun and a fire extinguisher gun

Info

Publication number: WO2013029614A2
Application number: PCT/DK2012/050194
Authority: WO
Inventors: Lars Wrang JENSEN; Claus BENTSEN
Original assignee: H2O Science Aps
Priority date: 2011-08-29
Filing date: 2012-06-07
Publication date: 2013-03-07
Also published as: WO2013029614A3

Abstract

The nozzle device comprises a base element (2) provided with at least one flow opening (4), and a setting element (3) provided with at least one first flow opening (5) and at least one second flow opening (6). The setting element (3) is rotatable relative to the base element (2) between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the flow opening (4) of the base element (2) is aligned with the first flow opening (5) of the setting element (3)establishing a first flow path via at least one first nozzle (7). In the second position, the flow opening (4) of the base element (2) is aligned with the second flow opening (6) of the setting element (3)establishing a second flow path via at least one second nozzle (8).

Description

A nozzle device for a fire extinguisher gun and a fire extinguisher gun

The present invention relates in a first aspect to a nozzle device for a fire extinguisher gun, such as for a mobile fire extinguisher unit, and in a second aspect to a fire extinguisher gun.

A fire extinguisher gun forming part of a system, such as a mobile fire extinguisher unit, is known from the prior art. Such systems typically further comprise a tank for holding a pressurized fire extinguisher medium, such as water, foam, a fluid to be foamed, or a mix of one or more thereof, and a hose connecting the tank and the fire extinguisher gun. The fire extinguishing medium is pressurized, and/or pressurized gas, such as pressurized air, is used as propellant. The fire extinguisher gun typically comprises connecting means for connection to the hose, a handle portion for holding and aiming the fire extinguisher gun, a barrel for the fire extinguishing medium to be conveyed through, a connecting piece for connecting the barrel to a nozzle device, through which the fire extinguishing medium will exit, and a trigger device for controlling the exiting of fire extinguishing medium from the fire extinguishing gun.

The nozzle device causes the fire extinguishing medium to exit the fire extinguisher gun in a specific ejection pattern. Different ejection patterns serve different purposes when putting out a fire. For instance, a concentrated jet of fire extinguishing medium may be desirable when putting out fire from a relative remote position, while a dispersed spray of fire extinguishing medium may be expedient putting out fire from a relatively close distance and the fire covers a relatively large area.

In the context of the present specification, by the term "jet" is meant a relatively congregated or narrow flow or stream of medium. By the term "spray" is meant a relatively dispersed stream of medium drop- lets.

Due to the pressure of the fire extinguisher medium, with which a usual fire extinguisher gun operates, viz. 3-30 bar typically, a nozzle device for fire extinguishing guns must be highly robust. Hitherto, it has been difficult to provide a sufficiently robust nozzle device comprising any moving parts. For this reason, moving parts have largely been avoided in prior art nozzle devices. Hence, in order to be able change from one ejection pattern to another, the entire nozzle device (or gun) has to be changed from one nozzle device providing one ejection pattern to another nozzle device (or gun) providing another ejection pattern.

Changing nozzle devices is relatively time consuming. A mounted nozzle device has to be dismounted and disposed of, and another nozzle device must be located and mounted. During this procedure the fire extinguisher unit cannot be used, which is naturally inconvenient during the process of putting out a fire. Any fumbling during mounting or dismounting due to the urgency of the situation prolongs the duration of the process of changing nozzle device. Also, there is a risk that the other nozzle device is not mounted correctly due to hurry causing an unintended ejection pattern. Furthermore, there is a risk that spare nozzle devices not in use are lost or otherwise not around when needed.

Altogether, the above-mentioned drawbacks of prior art nozzle devices for fire extinguisher guns is likely to prevent the user of the fire extinguisher unit from varying between ejection patterns as often as the fire extinguishing job might otherwise require. This may result in a less efficient fire extinguishing.

On this background, it is an object of the present invention in its first aspect to overcome or at least mitigate at least some of the above- mentioned problems with prior art nozzle devices for fire extinguishing guns. More specifically, it is an object to provide a robust nozzle device for fire extinguisher gun providing for fast, easy and reliable variation between ejection patterns enabling efficient and quick fire extinguishing.

These objects are met by a nozzle device according to claim 1. The nozzle device according to claim 1 allows for changing from one ejection pattern to another by a simple twisting motion of the setting element relative to the base element. As there are no loose pieces, there is no risk of losing any part of the nozzle device during use. Hence, fast, easy and reliable variation between ejection patterns is obtained.

The location of the respective flow openings in rotational symmetric, preferably plane, faces of the base element and the setting ele- ment allows at the same time for the flow openings to be of a relatively large diameter and for the base element and setting element, respectively, to present relatively large material thicknesses. This enables the nozzle device to convey fire extinguishing medium with a flow rate suffi- ciently high for fire extinguishing without compromising the strength of the nozzle device construction necessary for withstanding the fire extinguishing medium pressure. Also, it provides the nozzle device with sufficient robustness so as to be used as a hammer for breaking a window or the like.

A separate intermediate element may be provided between the base element and the setting element. In that case, the intermediate element is to be regarded as forming part of the base element or the setting element, the embodiment falling within the scope of claim 1.

The relatively large diameter flow openings furthermore facili- tate alignment of the flow opening(s) of the base element with the respective flow openings of the setting element thus enabling unobstructed flow of the fire extinguishing medium.

In the following, embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention according to the dependent claims 2-9 will be discussed.

In an embodiment of the nozzle device, the base element and the setting element, respectively, are substantially cylindrical and coax- ially connected to each other, and, relative to the axis of rotation, the flow openings in the plane face of the base element are distributed, preferably evenly, on a base element flow openings circle, and the first and second flow openings in the plane face of the setting element are distributed, preferably evenly and preferably alternately, on a setting element flow openings circle, the base element flow openings circle and the setting element flow openings circle being substantially circular, having substantially identical diameters and being substantially coaxially ar- ranged relative to the rotational axis.

The coaxial connection between the base and setting element provides for a compact construction of the nozzle device, and the cylindrical shape of the base and setting element provide for comfortable operation of the nozzle device. The even distribution of the respective flow openings on respective circles provide for a good utilization of the base and setting element with regard to location and size of the flow openings relative to the material thickness of the elements.

An even and alternating distribution of the first and second flow openings, respectively, in the setting element entails an even distribution of flow openings in the base element, where the angular distance between neighboring flow openings in the base element correspond to the angular distance between every other flow opening in the setting element. This arrangement of flow openings is advantageous as it ensures that the nozzle device can be brought from its first position to its second position or vice versa by a relatively small twist of the setting element relative to the base element, the twist corresponding to the angular distance between neighboring first and second flow openings. This enables a rapid change between positions of the nozzle device and can be performed in a single operation by a user, who does not have to change grips during the twisting process.

In an embodiment of the nozzle device, the base element, at an end opposite its axial end face, comprises a connection portion, which is adapted to be connected to a source of fire extinguishing medium, preferably via a fire extinguisher gun, and/or where the setting element, at an end opposite the axial end face, comprises a substantially plane nozzle face provided with the at least one first nozzle and the at least one second nozzle.

The location of the connection portion for a source of fire extinguishing medium opposite of the base element's plane face with flow openings provides for a substantially direct flow path for the fire extinguishing medium through the base element without any unwanted obstructions. The location of the plane nozzle face opposite the setting element's axial end face with flow openings likewise provides for a substantially unobstructed flow path for the fire extinguishing medium through the setting element.

The provision of a plane nozzle face enables provision of both jet nozzles and spray nozzles in the same nozzle face without compro- mising the desired ejection direction of any of the nozzles. Also, it provides for an easy manufacture.

In an embodiment of the nozzle device, relative to the axis of rotation, the first nozzles are distributed, preferably evenly, substantially on a periphery of a first nozzle circle, and the second nozzles are distributed, preferably evenly, substantially on a periphery of a second nozzle circle, the first nozzle circle and the second nozzle circle, respectively, being substantially concentrically arranged relative to the rotational axis, the diameter of the first nozzle circle being smaller than the diameter of the second nozzle circle.

As the first nozzles are preferably adapted to allow the fire extinguishing medium to exit the nozzle device substantially in the form of a jet, it is beneficial that the first nozzles are provided on a relatively small circle so as to ease the formation of a unified jet.

In an embodiment, the nozzle device comprises 1-10 first nozzles, preferably 2-8 first nozzles, and more preferably 3-6 first nozzles, and/or 10-90 second nozzles, preferably 20-50 second nozzles, and more preferred 25-40 second nozzles, and/or the nozzle diameter of each first nozzle is larger than the nozzle diameter of each second noz- zle, preferably the nozzle diameter of the first nozzle(s) is approximately 1.1-5 times the nozzle diameter of the second nozzle(s), more preferred approximately 1.3-3.4 times, and most preferred approximately 2-2.5 times the nozzle diameter of the second nozzle.

Nozzles of a relatively large diameter are particularly advanta- geous for forming an ejection pattern of fire extinguishing medium that substantially takes the form of a jet. Analogously, nozzles of a relatively small diameter are particularly advantageous for forming an ejection pattern of fire extinguishing medium that substantially takes the form of a spray.

A relatively large number of second nozzles is, due to their relatively small diameters, expedient in order to obtain a sufficient ejection rate of fire extinguishing medium from the nozzle device when in the second position, whereas there need not be as many first nozzles due to their relatively large diameter. In an embodiment of the nozzle device, the setting element, at an end opposite the axial end face, comprises a substantially plane nozzle face provided with the at least one first nozzle and the at least one second nozzle, and a substantially circular protrusion extending substan- tially coaxially relative to the rotational axis projects from the substantially plane nozzle face, an inner face of the protrusion forming an angle with the nozzle face of approximately 95°-150°, preferably approximately 100°-130°, and more preferably approximately 105°-125°, and an outer diameter of the protrusion is larger than the diameter of the second nozzle circle so as to allow the inner face of the protrusion to serve as a peripheral guide for the fire extinguishing medium exiting the nozzle device via the second nozzles.

Guidance of the fire extinguishing medium exiting via the second nozzles is particularly advantageous, when the second nozzles pro- vide for an ejection pattern in the form of a spray. As a spray is inherently dispersed and hence only targeted to a small extent, the protrusion will lead the spray in a generally common direction. The specified angle between the inner face of the protrusion and the plane nozzle face has proven to be appropriate for providing a satisfactory guidance of the spray without compromising the dispersion of the spray pattern to an undesirable degree.

In an embodiment of the nozzle device, the setting element, at an end opposite the axial end face, comprises a substantially plane nozzle face provided with the at least one first nozzle and the at least one second nozzle, and an ejection pattern enhancing element is provided comprising a substantially disc-shaped portion coaxially arranged relative to the axis of rotation, the substantially disc-shaped portion comprising : a substantially plane disc face abutting the nozzle face, the diameter of the disc face being smaller than the diameter of the second nozzle circle, at least one flow opening arranged so as to allow for fire extinguishing medium to flow freely from the first nozzles through the flow opening, and a peripheral portion providing a chamfered and/or stepped transition from the disc face to an outer diameter of the discshaped portion, the outer diameter of the disc-shaped portion being larger than the diameter of the second nozzle circle and smaller than the outer diameter of the protrusion so as to deflect fire extinguishing medium exiting the second nozzles substantially towards the inner face of the protrusion. Preferably one flow opening is provided for each of the first nozzles coaxially arranged relative to the first nozzle and having a diameter substantially equal to that of the first nozzle.

The deflection of the fire extinguishing medium exiting the second nozzles in a general direction towards the substantially circular protrusion is particularly an advantage, when the nozzle device is oper- ated at higher pressures, such as around 14-30 bar. At these pressures, fire extinguishing medium exiting the second nozzles tends not to nebulize to a satisfactory degree without being deflected by means of the ejection pattern enhancing element and the substantially circular protrusion as described above. The chamfered and/or stepped transition from the substa ntia l ly pla ne disc face to the outer peri phery of the d isc shaped portion has proven to provide a sufficient deflection of the fire extinguishing medium exiting via the second nozzles so as to create a satisfactory nebulization without impeding the flow rate of fire extinguishing medium to any unsatisfactory degree. Abutment of the sub- stantially plane disc face against the nozzle face prevents fire extinguishing medium exiting via the second nozzles to flow in a direction away from the substantially circular protrusion, which would result in a less efficient nebulization and less satisfactory guidance of the spray of fire extinguishing medium. Also, it provides for a robust and compact mounting of the ejection pattern enhancing element.

One flow opening in the ejection pattern enhancing element per first nozzle, each flow opening being coaxially arranged with each first nozzle and having a diameter of substantially the same size, is advantageous as the flow opening thus serve as a prolongation of each first noz- zle and hence contribute to the formation of a jet-like ejection pattern of fire extinguishing medium exiting from the first nozzles. Also, it provides for a strong and robust ejection pattern enhancing element with satisfactory material thickness between respective flow openings and flow openings and the periphery and with room for appropriate fastening of the ejection pattern enhancing element to the setting element.

In an embodiment of the nozzle device, the first flow path for the fire extinguishing medium is substantially parallel to the axis of rotation, and/or the second flow path comprises a first portion that is sub- stantially parallel to the axis of rotation, and a second portion that is angled relative to the first portion, the angle between the first portion and the second portion being approximately 120°-170°, preferably 130°- 160°, and more preferred 140°-150°.

The fact that the first flow path is parallel to the axis of rotation implies that the first flow path is substantially straight along its entire length. Since the first flow path leads to the first nozzles, a straight first flow path is beneficial as this contributes to the formation a powerful jet of fire extinguishing medium exiting the first nozzles.

Conversely, the fact that the second flow path, which leads to the second nozzles, is angled has the effect of inducing more turbulence in the fire extinguishing medium before it reaches the second nozzles. This contributes to the formation of an ejection pattern substantially in the form of a spray of fire extinguishing medium. This is obtained without compromising the flow rate of fire extinguishing medium to an unsa- tisfactory degree.

In an embodiment of the nozzle device, the first portion of the second flow path extends in the base element, and the second portion of the second flow path extends in the setting element. In other words, the first portion of the fluid path terminates with the flow openings in the plane face of the base element. This means that the flow path extending in the base element from the connection portion to the flow openings in the plane face of the base element forms a first portion of flow path common for both the first and second flow path. This provides for a simple and robust construction of the nozzle device in general and of the base element in particular. Also, this construction is particularly advantageous from a manufacture perspective, when the base element and setting element are separate elements.

In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a fire extinguisher gun provided with a nozzle device according to any of the em- bodiments discussed above as defined in claim 10.

In the following, embodiments of the present invention will be elaborated with reference to the schematic drawings. The terms "top", "bottom", "above", "below" etc. used in the following should be unders- tood in relation to the orientation of the described features in the figures and not as limiting in any way as to the orientation of the features in reality.

Fig. 1 shows a cross sectional view of a nozzle device according to a first embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention,

Fig. 2 shows an isometric view of a base element of the embodiment of fig. 1,

Fig. 3 shows a top view of the base element of fig. 2,

Fig. 4 shows an isometric view of a flow path part of a setting element of the embodiment of the nozzle device of fig. 1,

Fig. 5 shows a top view of the flow path part of the setting element of fig. 4,

Fig. 6 shows a cross sectional view of the flow path part of the setting element of figs. 4 and 5,

Fig. 7 shows a bottom view of the flow path part of the setting element of figs. 4, 5 and 6,

Fig. 8 shows an isometric view of a nozzle part of the setting element of the embodiment of the nozzle device of fig. 1,

Fig. 9 shows a top view of the nozzle part of the setting element of fig. 8,

Fig. 10 shows a cross sectional view of the nozzle part of the setting element of figs. 8 and 9,

Fig. 11 shows an isometric view of an ejection pattern enhancing element of the embodiment of the nozzle device of fig. 1,

Fig. 12 shows a bottom view of the ejection pattern enhancing element of fig. 11,

Fig. 13 shows a cross sectional view of the ejection pattern enhancing element of figs. 11 and 12,

Fig. 14 shows a cross sectional view of a nozzle device according to a second embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention, Fig. 15 shows an isometric view of a base element of the embodiment of fig. 14,

Fig. 16 shows an isometric view from below of a flow path part of a setting element of the embodiment of the nozzle device of fig. 14,

Fig. 17 shows an isometric view from above of the flow path part of the setting element of fig. 16,

Fig. 18 shows a top view of the flow path part of the setting element of figs. 16 and 17,

Fig. 19 shows a cross sectional view of the flow path part of the setting element of figs. 16-18,

Fig. 20 shows a different cross sectional view of the flow path part of the setting element of figs. 16-19,

Fig. 21 shows an isometric view of a nozzle part of the setting element of the embodiment of the nozzle device of fig. 14,

Fig. 22 shows a top view of the nozzle part of the setting element of fig. 21,

Fig. 23 shows a cross sectional view of the nozzle part of the setting element of figs. 21 and 22,

Fig. 24 shows an isometric view of a nozzle device according to a third embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention,

Fig. 25 shows a cross sectional view of the nozzle device of Fig.

24,

Fig. 26 shows an isometric view of a nozzle part of the nozzle device of figs. 24 and 25,

Fig. 27 shows a cross sectional view of the nozzle part of fig. 26, and

Fig. 28 shows an isometric view of an ejection pattern enhancing element for the embodiment of the nozzle device of figs. 24-25.

In the following, similar features and features with similar func- tions are denoted by similar reference numbers with one hundred added to them for each new embodiment.

The nozzle device 1 according to the first embodiment as schematically depicted in Figs. 1-13 will be described in the following. The nozzle device 1 comprises a base element 2 and a setting element 3. Both elements are substantially cylindrical. Other shapes, such as substantially polygonal, of the base element and/or the setting element are conceivable.

With reference firstly to figs. 1-3, the base element 2 comprises a connection portion 11, which is adapted to be connected to the barrel of a fire extinguisher gun (not depicted) and via that to a source of fire extinguishing medium, such as a fire extinguishing medium tank (not depicted). The fire extinguishing medium is propelled by pressure. However, pressurized gas, such as pressurized air, as propellant may be used.

At an end opposite the connection portion 11, the base element comprises a substantially plane circular face 9 wherein three flow openings 4 are provided. Embodiments of the nozzle device with a different number of flow openings in the base element are conceivable. For ex- ample, the embodiment of the nozzle device in figs. 14-23, which will be discussed in detail further below, is provided with four flow openings in the base element. Embodiments of the nozzle device with other numbers of flow openings, such as one, two, five, six or more than six flow openings are conceivable.

Each flow opening 4 of the base element 2 extend into a substantially straight first portion of flow path 20 for fire extinguishing medium, the first portion of flow path 20 being substantially parallel to an axis of rotation A. Other embodiments of the nozzle device may comprise base elements with fluid paths taking different courses than straight or parallel with the axis of rotation. However, straight first portions of flow paths in the base element parallel to the axis of rotation are preferred for reasons which will be dealt with further below.

Each first portion of flow path 20 terminate in a cavity 26 peripherally surrounded by the connection portion 11.

Turning now primarily to figs. 1 and 4-10, the setting element 3 comprises two parts, a flow path part 3a and a nozzle part 3b. Both parts 3a, 3b are substantially cylindrical and, as is seen from fig. 1, and the flow path part 3a is surrounded along its periphery by the nozzle part 3b. A substantially plane end face 24 of the flow path part 3a abuts a sub- stantially plane inner end face 25 of the nozzle part 3b. It is understood, however, that the abutting faces need not necessarily be plane. Other embodiments comprising equivalently curved or stepped abutting faces are conceivable.

The flow path part 3a and nozzle part 3b are fixedly fastened to each other by fastening means, which in fig. 1 are embodied by screws 23 extending through holes 34 provided in the nozzle part 3b and into engagement with screw holes 28 provided in the flow path element 3a. The through holes are as indicated in fig. 10 not provided with thread, but may be so provided in other embodiments of the nozzle device. The fastening may be supplemented by an appropriate adhesive. Other appropriate fastening means may be envisaged as alternatives or supplements. Embodiments of the nozzle device comprising an integral setting element are also envisaged.

The flow path part 3a of the setting element comprises a substantially plane circular face 10 that faces the substantially plane face 9 of the base element. The two faces 9, 10 are separated by a gap of approximately 0.1-0.2 mm in order to facilitate the rotational movement between the base element 2 and the setting element 3. However, embo- diments where the axial end faces of the base element and the setting element, respectively, are abutting or separated by an even larger gap are conceivable, although less preferred. The two circular faces 9, 10 have substantially identically sized diameters, although differently sized circular faces may be envisaged.

As seen in fig. 1, the setting element 3 is rotatably connected to the base element 2. A screw 41 embodies the rotatable connection between base element 2 and setting element 3, and may be supplemented by an appropriate adhesive. Other suitable fastening means for obtaining a rotatable connection between the two elements may be envisaged as alternatives or supplements.

An inner peripheral face of 31 of the nozzle part 3b of the setting element 3 abuts the periphery of an outer peripheral part 36 of the base element. This serves as a supplementary rotational guide for the rotatable connection between the base element 2 and the setting ele- ment 3 and provides for an enhanced robustness of the connection and hence the nozzle device 1.

At the plane circular face 10 of the flow path part 3a of the setting element 3 there are provided three first flow openings 5 and three second flow openings 6, i.e. as many first flow openings 5 and as many second flow openings 6, respectively, as the number of flow openings 4 provided at the plane face 9 of the base element 2. Embodiments of the nozzle device having more or fewer first flow openings and/or more or fewer second flow openings in the setting element relative to the flow openings provided in the base element may be envisaged, although, as will appear from paragraphs further below, this is not preferred.

Each of the first flow openings 5 in the flow path part 3a of the setting element 3 extend into a substantially straight second portion of a first flow path 22 for fire extinguishing medium, the second portion of first flow path 22 being substantially parallel to the axis of rotation A and exiting the flow path element 3a on the plane face 24 opposite the plane face 10. Each second portion of first flow path 22 extends into a first nozzle 7 provided in the nozzle part 3b of the setting element 3. Each first nozzle 7 extends from the plane inner face 25 to a plane circular nozzle face 12.

Analogously, each of the second flow openings 6 in the flow path part 3a of the setting element 3 extend into a substantially straight second portion of second flow path 21 for fire extinguishing medium, the second portion of second flow path 21 being angled with respect to the axis of rotation. The angle between the first portion of the flow path 20 and the second portion of the second flow path 21 is approximately 142°. Other angles between the two portions of flow path are of course conceivable; however, an angle in the range of 140°-150° is preferred. The specified angling of the second portion of the second flow path 21 causes it to exit the flow path element 3a at its periphery 29. This is partially advantageous due to circumstances relating to the flow path further downstream and ejection pattern of the fire extinguishing medium, which will be discussed further below.

It is also advantageous out of consideration to the fixation of the flow path part 3a to the nozzle part 3b of the setting element 3. This particular angling of the second portion 21 of the second flow path in relation to the first portion provides, without compromising the strength of the flow path element 3a, room for a screw holes 28 in the flow path part 3a for accommodation of respective screws 23, cf. figs. 1 and 6.

The diameter of the first portion 20 of flow path is slightly smaller than the diameter of the second portion 22 of the first flow path, of the first nozzle 7 and of the flow opening 18. More specifically, the diameter of the first portion 20 of flow path measures approximately 4.5 mm and the diameter of the second portion 22 of the first flow path measures approximately 5 mm. Other measures of the diameters are conceivable as are substantially identically sized first and second flow path portions or even a first flow path portion with a larger diameter than that of the second portion, although this is less preferred. A slightly smaller diameter of the first flow portion 20 is advantageous, since it contributes to avoiding excess leak of fire extinguishing medium into the gap between axial end faces 9 and 10. It is also beneficial in case the nozzle device 1 gets worn, dirt enters the nozzle device 1, or the base element 2 and the setting element 3 are otherwise hindered from being entirely correctly positioned in relation to each other, since fire extinguishing medium can still flow through the nozzle device even if a complete alignment of the first portion of flow path with the second portion of flow path is not possible.

As seen in fig. 1, an annular chamber 30 exists between the pe- riphery 29 of the flow path part 3a and an inner peripheral face 31 of the nozzle part 3b of the setting element 3. At one end, the chamber 30 opens into several separate second nozzles 8 provided in the inner plane face 25 extending so as to exit through the outer nozzle face 12. At an opposite end of the chamber 30, a fluid tight seal in the form of an O- ring 32 is provided. The O-ring 32 is held in place by a circumferential groove 33 extending around an outermost periphery of the flow path element 3a. Other means for providing a fluid tight seal between the flow path part 3a and nozzle part 3b are conceivable.

The exiting of the second portion of the second flow paths 21 at the periphery 29 of the flow path part 3a causes fire extinguishing medium flowing via the second flow paths to enter the annular chamber 30. The O-ring 32 serves to hinder the fire extinguishing medium in the chamber 30 from exiting via the end of the chamber 30 opposite the second nozzles 8.

Another fluid tight seal in form of an O-ring 35 is provided around the base element 2 and is held in place by a circumferential groove. The fluid tight O-ring 35 provides a fluid tight connection between the base element 2 and the nozzle part 3b of the setting element 3 hindering any fire extinguishing medium from exiting between the abutting outer peripheral part 36 of the base element 2 and the inner peripheral part 31 of the setting element 3.

As mentioned above, the setting element 3 is rotatable relative to the base element 2 around an axis of rotation A between a first posi- tion and a second position.

In the first position, the flow openings 4 of the base element 2 are aligned with the first flow openings 5 of the setting element 3. The nozzle device 1 is depicted in its first position in fig. 1. The alignment of the flow openings 4, 5 establishes a continuous flow path for fire extin- guishing medium, the flow path comprising the first portion of flow path 20, the second portion of first flow path 22 and eventually the first nozzles 7. Hence, in the first position of the nozzle device 1, fire extinguishing medium entering the nozzle device 1 exits via the first nozzles 1, whereas, as is also seen in fig. 1, the second nozzles 8 are substantially cut off from the main fluid communication with the source of fire extinguishing medium.

In the second position, the flow openings 4 of the base element 2 are aligned with the second flow openings 6 of the setting element 3 (second position is not depicted for this embodiment of the nozzle de- vice). The alignment of the flow openings 4, 6 establishes a continuous flow path comprising the first portion of flow path 20, the second portion of second flow path 21, the annular chamber 30 and eventually the second nozzles 8. Hence, in the second position of the nozzle device 1, fire extinguishing medium entering the nozzle device 1 exits via the second nozzles 2, whereas the first nozzles 7 are substantially cut off from the main fluid communication with the source of fire extinguishing medium.

The flow openings 4 are distributed evenly on a circle C2 arranged on the plane face 9 of the base element 2 coaxially relative to the axis of rotation A, the circle C2 having substantially the same diameter as a circle C3 provided on the plane face 10 of the setting element 3 likewise coaxially relative to the axis of the axis of rotation A, on which circle C3 the first and second flow openings 5, 6 are distributed evenly and alternately.

Other arrangements of the flow openings 4, 5, 6 are conceivable. For instance, the flow openings of the base element may be distributed evenly across a half-circle coaxially arranged on the circular face of the base element, while the first flow openings of the setting element may be arranged evenly across a first half-circle and the second flow openings of the setting element across a second half-circle of the setting element, the two half-circles forming a full circle. However, a change between first and second positions of the nozzle device would thus require the setting element to be twisted 180° relative to the base element. The depicted arrangement of flow openings 4, 5, 6 is particularly advanta- geous as it ensures that the nozzle device 1 can be brought from its first position to its second position or vice versa by a relatively small twist of the setting element relative to the base element, the twist corresponding to the angular distance W56 between neighboring first and second flow openings 5, 6. For the depicted embodiment, the angular distance W56 amounts to approximately 60°. This enables a rapid change between positions of the nozzle device and can be performed in a single operation by a user, who does not have to change grips during the twisting process.

As seen in figs. 8-10, the first nozzles 7 are distributed evenly on a first nozzle circle C7 concentrically arranged relative to the rotational axis A. As the first flow path 20, 22 leading to the first nozzles 7 is straight and parallel to the rotational axis A, the diameter of the first nozzle circle C7 is inherently identical to that of the base element flow opening circle C2 and that of the setting element flow opening circle C3. As is seen in figs. 8-10, there are provided three first nozzles 7. Other embodiments may comprise more or less first nozzles, such as one, two, four, five, six or more first nozzles. However, it is advantageous if there are as many first nozzles as first flow paths to ensure an optimum flow through the nozzle device.

The diameter of each first nozzle 7 is substantially the same size as the diameter of the second portion of each first flow path 22, approximately 4-5 mm. This causes the fire extinguishing medium exiting the first nozzles 7 to exit in an ejection pattern having the form of a jet. Strictly speaking, the fire extinguishing medium exits the nozzle device as three individual jets, but as the diameter of the first nozzle circle C7 is relatively small, 14-16 mm, the ejection pattern will be perceived as more or less a single jet. Other arrangements as to size and location of the first nozzles may be envisaged, resulting in a different first ejection pattern.

The second nozzles 8 are likewise distributed evenly on a circle on the plane nozzle face 12, the second nozzle circle C8 being coaxially arranged relative to the rotational axis A, but having a larger diameter than the first nozzle circle C7; the former measuring approximately 26- 27 mm. This dimension is partially conditioned by the fact that the second flow path 20, 21 leading to the second nozzles 8 passes via the annular and peripheral chamber 30. Also, the second nozzles 8 themselves are angled in relation to the rotational axis A with an angle of approximately 25° in the embodiment shown. It is noted that this latter angle can differ from 25°, but is preferably within an interval of 20 to 70°, more preferred 40° to 50°, specifically about 45°.

The diameter of each second nozzle 8 is approximately 2 mm, however, second nozzle diameters in the range of approximately 1.5-3 mm are conceivable. This nozzle diameter causes the fire extinguishing medium exiting the second nozzles 8 to exit in an ejection pattern having the form of substantially a spray. As the nozzle diameter of the second nozzles 8 is rather small, numerous second nozzles 8 are provided in order to obtain a satisfactory output of fire extinguishing medium. This particular embodiment comprises thirty second nozzles 8. More or fewer second nozzles are conceivable.

The second nozzles 8 are arranged evenly along the entire second nozzle circle C8. However, embodiments with second nozzles only distributed along part or parts of the second nozzles circle or other- wise partly or wholly unevenly distributed along the second nozzle circle are envisaged. Also, entirely different arrangements as to size and location of the second nozzles may be envisaged, resulting in a different second ejection pattern.

A substantially circular protrusion 13 projecting from the sub- stantially plane nozzle face 12 is coaxially arranged relative to the rotational axis A. An inner face 14 of the protrusion 13 forms an angle V14 with the nozzle face 12 of approximately 105°. The outer diameter D13 of the protrusion 13 measures approximately 35 mm and is thus larger than the diameter of the second nozzle circle C8. The top edge 44 of the protrusion 13 is located approximately 5-6 mm above the plane nozzle face 12 when measured parallel to the axis of rotation A.

An ejection pattern enhancing element 15 is provided, which will now be described with reference to figs. 1 and 11-13. The ejection pattern enhancing element 15 comprises a disc-shaped portion 16 coaxially arranged relative to the axis of rotation A.

The disc-shaped portion 16 comprises a substantially plane disc face 17 abutting the nozzle face 12, when mounted. The mounting takes place by means of the same screws 23 that fix the flow path part 3a and the nozzle part 3b of the setting element 3 to each other. The screws 23 pass through screw holes 37, which are depicted as not being provided with thread, but may be in other embodiments.

Extending from the disc face 17 is a stem 38 for insertion through the central hole 39 in the flow path part 3a and a central hole 40 in the nozzle part 3b of the setting element 3. The screw 41 to be in- serted into screw hole 42 of the stem 38 fastens base element 2, setting element 3 and ejection pattern enhancing element 15 together enabling rotational movement between base element 2 and setting element 3.

Three through flow openings 18 perforating the disc shaped portion 16 are arranged so as to allow fire extinguishing medium to flow freely from the first nozzles 7 through the flow opening 18. Each flow opening 18 is coaxially arranged relative to each first nozzle 7 and has a diameter of substantially the same size. This provides for a prolongation of the first nozzles 7, thus enhancing the jet-formed ejection pattern of fire extinguishing medium. Embodiments where one flow opening serving as flow opening for multiple first nozzles are also conceivable.

The diameter D17 of the disc face 17 is smaller than the diameter of the second nozzle circle C8. A peripheral portion 19 of the discshaped portion 16 provides a stepped and chamfered transition from the disc face 17 to an outer diameter D16 of the disc-shaped portion 16. The peripheral portion may also be just chamfered or just stepped.

As is best seen in fig. 1, the outer diameter D16 of the discshaped portion 16 is larger than the diameter of the second nozzle circle C8 and smaller than the outer diameter D13 of the protrusion 13 so as to deflect fire extinguishing medium exiting the second nozzles 8 towards the inner face 14 of the protrusion 13. This deflection enhances the susceptibility of the fire extinguishing medium exiting the second nozzles 8 to nebulize, even at higher pressures of the fire extinguishing medium. This is particularly useful for this particular embodiment, which is intended for use at a pressure of approximately 14-30 bar.

In the following, with reference to figs. 14-23 a second embodiment of nozzle device according to the first aspect of the present invention will be discussed. However, as this second embodiment is in many ways similar to the first embodiment discussed above with refer- ence to figs. 1-13, only the features which differ from the first embodiment will be dealt with in detail in the following. This embodiment is intended for use of pressurized gas, such as pressurized air, as propellant for the fire extinguishing medium. However, the fire extinguishing medium may be pressurized for propulsion.

In this embodiment of a nozzle device 101, there are provided four flow openings 104 in the plane face 109 of the base element 102. An upstanding flange 143 serves as rotational guide for the flow path part 103a of the setting element 103, in the plane face 110 of which there are provided four first flow openings 105 and four second flow openings 106, respectively. As is best seen from figs. 16 and 17, the second flow openings 106 are open towards the periphery of the flow path part 3a.

The four flow openings 104 of the base element 102 provide for four first portions of flow path 120, and in the setting element 103 the four first flow openings 105 provide for four second portions 122 of first flow pats and four second portions 121 of second flow path.

The four first flow paths 120, 122 end in each a first flow opening 104 provided on a first nozzle circle on the plane nozzle face 112 of the nozzle part 103b of the setting element 103.

A similar arrangement comprising an annular chamber 130 as described above forms part of the second flow paths eventually ending in thirty second nozzles 108 provided on a second nozzle circle C108 on the plane nozzle face 112 of the nozzle part 103b.

As best seen in fig. 14, the O-ring providing a fluid tight connection between is dispensed with, as it would serve no purpose here where the second portions of second flow paths 121 are open towards the periphery already at the second flow openings 106.

The distance between the top edge 144 of protrusion 113 and the plane nozzle face 112 when measured parallel to the axis of rotation A is smaller than for the first embodiment, the distance amounting to approximately 3 mm. This is due to the fact that this second embodiment of a nozzle device 101 does not comprise an ejection pattern enhancing element. As this embodiment is intended to operate under a pressure of only about 3-8 bar, an ejection pattern enhancing element is not necessary for the fire extinguishing medium exiting via the second nozzles 108 to nebulize. However, an ejection pattern enhancing element could nevertheless be provided.

The flow path part 103a and the nozzle part 103b of the setting element 103 are fixedly connected by two screws 123 passing through threaded screw holes 128 in the flow path part 103a and unthreaded screw holes in the nozzle part 103b. The latter screw holes may of be provided with thread as well. A central screw 141 fastens base element 102 and setting element 103 rotatably to each other by insertion into a central screw hole 142 provided in a stem 138 extending from the plane face 125 within the nozzle part 103a of the setting element 103.

In the following, with reference to figs. 24-28 a third embodiment of nozzle device 201 according to the first aspect of the present in- vention will be discussed. However, as this third embodiment in many respects is similar to the first and/or second embodiment discussed above, primarily the differing features of this third embodiment will be dealt with in detail in the following.

This third embodiment of the nozzle device 201 is intended pri- marily for use in fighting forest fires and fire fighting jobs of similar character requiring large flow rates of fire extinguishing medium; however, other uses are conceivable. The nozzle device 201 is intended for a flow rate of fire extinguishing medium of approximately 200 L/min at a pressure of approximately 8-10 bar. In comparison, the first embodiment of the nozzle device 1 is intended for a flow rate of fire extinguishing medium of approximately 60 L/min at a pressure of approximately 16 bar, and the second embodiment of the nozzle device 101 for a flow rate of fire extinguishing medium of approximately 13-14 L/min at a pressure of approximately 5-6 bar. However, for all of the embodiments, other pres- sures and flow rates may be applied; for instance a higher pressure of up to around 30 bar may be desirable in some cases in order to increase the ejection range of the fire extinguishing medium. The fire extinguishing medium is propelled by pressure. However, pressurized gas, such as pressurized air, as propellant may be used.

As best seen in Fig. 25, the third embodiment of the nozzle device 201 bears resemblance to the second embodiment of the nozzle device 101 as regards the structure of the base element 202, the flow path part 203a of the setting element 203 and the O-ring arrangement 235 between base element 202 and the nozzle part 203b of setting element 203, and it bears resemblance to the first embodiment of the nozzle device 1 as regards the structure of the nozzle part 203b of the setting element 203 and the ejection pattern enhancing element 215.

Whereas the first embodiment of the nozzle device has an overall transverse measurement of approximately 38 mm, and the second embodiment has an overall transverse measurement of approximately 34 mm, the third embodiment has an overall transverse measurement of approximately 64 mm, i.e. a comparatively larger embodiment of the nozzle device.

As seen in fig. 26, the third embodiment of the nozzle device

201 comprises 6 first nozzles 207 and 40 second nozzles 208 (not discernible in the figures); however, other numbers of first and/or second nozzles are conceivable. The diameter of the second nozzles 208 is larger than those of the first and second embodiments, viz. 2.5 mm, although other second nozzle diameters are conceivable. The relatively large number of first and second nozzles 7, 8 and larger sized second nozzles 8 compared to those of the first and second embodiments of the nozzle device enables a sufficiently high flow rate of fire extinguishing medium required for use in fighting for instance forest fires. The first nozzle circle is approximately 30 mm, the second nozzle circle is approximately 44 mm and the outer diameter of the circular protrusion 213 is approximately 55 mm. However, other diameters of the first nozzle circle, the second nozzle circle and protrusion 213 are conceivable.

The ejection pattern enhancing element 215 is slightly different from that of the first embodiment, in that the peripheral portion 219 of the disc-shaped portion 216 provides a chamfered only transition from the disc face to the outer diameter of the disc-shaped portion 216. However, the peripheral portion may be stepped in alternative or in addition to the chamfered transition.

The outermost portion of the inner face 214 of the protrusion

213 ends in a chamfer 245, which is angled further outwards than the face 214. The angle between the face 214 and the chamfer 245 is approximately 17° but may take other dimensions. The chamfer 245 serves to allow a wider spreading of fire extinguishing medium exiting the second nozzles 208, which is particularly expedient for this embodiment intended for fighting forest fires, where it is typically desirable to be able to cover a larger area with fire extinguishing medium.

As is best seen in figs. 26 and 27, a circumferential and peripheral groove 246 is provided in the nozzle face 212, into which groove 246 the second nozzles 208 extend. The groove 246 serves the purpose of substantially joining the individual spray streams of fire extinguishing medium exiting the second nozzles 208 into a combined substantially umbrella-shaped and uniform spray pattern.

It is understood that the scope of the present invention is not limited to the described embodiments; other embodiments and combinations of the above are possible within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended patent claims.

For instance, in some of the figures overall dimensions for the corresponding embodiments of the nozzle device are indicated, however, up or downscaling of one or more of these or any of the dimensions mentioned above are conceivable.

Also, the nozzle device according to any of the above described embodiments is manufactured from a suitable metal alloy; however, embodiments made partially or wholly from plastics material or otherwise synthetic material are conceivable.

Furthermore, other uses of the nozzle device according to the first aspect of the present invention than in connection with a fire extinguishing gun are envisaged, for instance mounted on the end of a fire hose.

Also, even though the above described embodiments enable a change only between two ejection patterns by a twisting motion between two positions, embodiments enabling a change between three or more ejection patterns are envisaged. In an embodiment enabling a change between three ejection patterns, the setting element would comprise first, second and third flow openings establishing, when aligned with the flow openings in the base element, first, second and third flow paths, respectively, ending in first, second and third nozzles. Further, in other embodiments different ejection patterns may be combined, e.g. in in- termediate positions.

Claims

P A T E N T C L A I M S

1. A nozzle device (1) for a fire extinguisher gun, such as for a mobile fire extinguisher unit, for discharging a fire extinguishing medium, comprising :

a base element (2) provided with at least one flow opening (4), a setting element (3) provided with at least one first flow opening (5) and at least one second flow opening (6),

the setting element (3) being rotatably connected to the base element (2) and rotatable around an axis of rotation (A) between a first position and a second position,

the flow opening (4) of the base element (2) in the first position being aligned with the first flow opening (5) of the setting element (3), and the flow opening (4) of the base element (2) in the second position being aligned with the second flow opening (6) of the setting element (3),

the alignment of flow openings (4, 5) in the first position establishing a first flow path for the fire extinguishing medium via at least one first nozzle (7) adapted to allow for the fire extinguishing medium to be discharged from the nozzle device (1) in a first ejection pattern, prefera- bly as substantially a jet, and

the alignment of flow openings (4, 6) in the second position establishing a second flow path for the fire extinguishing medium via at least one second nozzle (8) adapted to allow for the fire extinguishing medium to be discharged from the nozzle device (1) in a second ejection pattern, preferably as substantially a spray,

the flow opening (4) of the base element (2) and the flow openings (5, 6) of the setting element (3) being provided in opposite axial end faces (9, 10) of the base element (2) and the setting element (3), respectively, the end faces being substantially rotational symmetric, preferably substantially plane.

2. A nozzle device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the base element (2) and the setting element (3), respectively, are substantially cylindrical and coaxially connected to each other, and

wherein, relative to the axis of rotation (A), the flow openings (4) in the axial end face (9) of the base element (2) are distributed, preferably evenly, on a base element flow openings circle (C2), and the first and second flow openings (5, 6) in the axial end face (10) of the setting element (3) are distributed, preferably evenly and preferably alternately, on a setting element flow openings circle (C3), the base element flow openings circle (C2) and the setting element flow openings circle (C3) being substantially circular, having substantially identical diameters and being substantially coaxially arranged relative to the rotational axis (A).

3. A nozzle device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the base element (2), at an end opposite its axial end face (9), comprises a connection portion (11), which is adapted to be connected to a source of fire extinguishing medium, preferably via a fire extinguisher gun, and/or wherein the setting element (3), at an end opposite the axial end face (10), comprises a substantially plane nozzle face (12) provided with the at least one first nozzle (7) and the at least one second nozzle (8).

4. A nozzle device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, relative to the axis of rotation (A), the first nozzles (7) are distributed, preferably evenly, substantially on a periphery of a first nozzle circle (C7), and the second nozzles (8) are distributed, preferably evenly, substantially on a periphery of a second nozzle circle (C8), the first nozzle circle (C7) and the second nozzle circle (C8), respectively, being substantially concentrically arranged relative to the rotational axis (A), the diameter of the first nozzle circle (C7) being smaller than the diame- ter of the second nozzle circle (C8).

5. A nozzle device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, comprising 1-10 first nozzles (7), preferably 2-8 first nozzles (7), and more preferably 3-6 first nozzles (7), and/or 10-90 second nozzles (8), preferably 20-50 second nozzles (8), and more preferred 25-40 second nozzles (8), and/or

wherein the nozzle diameter (D7) of each first nozzle (7) is larger than the nozzle diameter (D8) of each second nozzle (8), preferably the nozzle diameter (D7) of the first nozzle(s) (7) is approximately 1.1-5 times the nozzle diameter (D8) of the second nozzle(s) (8), more preferred approximately 1.3-3.4 times, and most preferred approximately 2-2.5 times the nozzle diameter of the second nozzle (8).

6. A nozzle device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the setting element (3), at an end opposite the axial end face (10), comprises a substantially plane nozzle face (12) provided with the at least one first nozzle (7) and the at least one second nozzle (8), and wherein a substantially circular protrusion (13) extending substantially coaxially relative to the rotational axis (A) projects from the substantially plane nozzle face (12), an inner face (14) of the protrusion (13) forming an angle (V14) with the nozzle face (12) of approximately 95°-150°, preferably approximately 100°-130°, and more preferably approximately 105°-125°, and an outer diameter (D13) of the protrusion (13) is larger than the diameter of the second nozzle circle (C8) so as to allow the inner face (14) of the protrusion (13) to serve as a peripheral guide for the fire extinguishing medium exiting the nozzle device (1) via the second nozzles (8).

7. A nozzle device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the setting element (3), at an end opposite the axial end face (10), comprises a substantially plane nozzle face (12) provided with the at least one first nozzle (7) and the at least one second nozzle (8), and wherein an ejection pattern enhancing element (15) is provided comprising a substantially disc-shaped portion (16) coaxially arranged relative to the axis of rotation (A), the substantially disc-shaped portion (16) comprising :

a substantially plane disc face (17) abutting the nozzle face

(12), the diameter (D17) of the disc face (17) being smaller than the diameter of the second nozzle circle (C8),

at least one flow opening (18) arranged so as to allow for fire extinguishing medium to flow freely from the first nozzles (7) through the flow opening (18), preferably one flow opening (18) is provided for each of the first nozzles (7) coaxially arranged relative to the first nozzle (7) and having a diameter substantially equal to that of the first nozzle (7), and

a peripheral portion (19) providing a chamfered and/or stepped transition from the disc face (17) to an outer diameter (D16) of the discshaped portion (16), the outer diameter (D16) of the disc-shaped portion (16) being larger than the diameter of the second nozzle circle (C8) and smaller than the outer diameter (D13) of the protrusion (13) so as to deflect fire extinguishing medium exiting the second nozzles (8) substantially towards the inner face (14) of the protrusion (13).

8. A nozzle device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first flow path for the fire extinguishing medium is substantially parallel to the axis of rotation (A), and/or

the second flow path comprises a first portion (20) that is substantially parallel to the axis of rotation (A), and a second portion (21) that is angled relative to the first portion (20), the angle between the first portion (20) and the second portion (21) being approximately 120°- 170°, preferably 130°-160°, and more preferred 140°-150°.

9. A nozzle device (1) according to claim 8, wherein the first portion (20) of the second flow path extends in the base element (2), and the second portion (21) of the second flow path extends in the setting element (3).

10. A fire extinguisher gun, provided with a nozzle device (1) according to any of the preceding claims, a connecting piece for connecting the nozzle device (1) to the fire extinguisher gun, a handle portion for holding and aiming the fire extinguisher gun, and a trigger device for activating and deactivating the conveyance of fire extinguishing medium from the tank to the nozzle device (1),

the fire extinguisher gun preferably forming part of a system further comprising a tank for holding a pressurized fire extinguisher medium and a hose connecting the tank and the fire extinguisher gun, and the fire extinguisher gun preferably being adapted to mix a pressurized gas for propulsion and the fire extinguishing medium.