Specialized Low-Pressure-Drop Acoustic Suppressor Nozzles for Niche Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
This inventive concept adapts the original low-pressure-drop acoustic suppressor nozzle design for specialized use in high-security facilities, disaster relief, extreme weather conditions, and high-temperature industrial applications, providing tailored fire suppression solutions for unique operational environments.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed a low-pressure-drop acoustic suppressor nozzle for inert gas discharge systems. However, the original design did not address the specific needs of niche markets, such as high-security facilities requiring low-noise operation or disaster relief operations demanding portable, self-contained systems. This inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing specialized nozzle designs and system configurations tailored to these unique environments.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new claims introduce four specialized variations of the low-pressure-drop acoustic suppressor nozzle: 1) for high-security facilities, featuring a remote pressure reducing device to minimize noise; 2) for disaster relief operations, incorporating a portable, self-contained inert gas discharge system; 3) for extreme weather conditions, with a weather-resistant housing and sound dampening material; and 4) for high-temperature industrial applications, designed to operate at temperatures up to 500°F. Each variation builds upon the original nozzle design, incorporating unique features and components to address the specific challenges of its target market.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel combinations of components and system configurations that depart from the original patent's design. The inventive step lies in the adaptation of the original nozzle design to meet the specific requirements of niche markets, resulting in specialized solutions that provide improved performance, safety, and usability in these unique environments.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments may include using different materials or geometries for the nozzle and pressure reducing device, or incorporating additional features such as sensors or monitoring systems to enhance the fire suppression system's performance and safety. Variations may also include adapting the nozzle design for use with different inert gases or in combination with other fire suppression agents.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The specialized low-pressure-drop acoustic suppressor nozzles have significant commercial potential in various industries, including high-security facilities, disaster relief, extreme weather operations, and high-temperature industrial applications. The tailored fire suppression solutions offered by these nozzles can provide improved safety, reduced downtime, and enhanced operational efficiency in these unique environments.
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Fire suppression systems and acoustic suppressor nozzle design, involving thermal management, fluid dynamics, and specialized engineering for high-reliability environments
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A mechanical or fire protection engineer with expertise in gas discharge systems, nozzle design, pressure management, and thermal engineering, typically holding a BS/MS in mechanical engineering with 3-5 years industrial experience
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the source patent's fundamental low-pressure-drop acoustic suppressor nozzle design provides a versatile platform for targeted adaptations across different operational contexts. The PTD's variations represent predictable engineering modifications that leverage the core technological principles established in the original patent. Each proposed variation applies standard design techniques to address specific environmental challenges while maintaining the fundamental nozzle performance characteristics.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,817 |
|---|---|
| Title | Low pressure drop acoustic suppressor nozzle for inert gas discharge system |
| Assignee(s) | Tyco Fire Products LP |