Specialized Inert Gas Discharge Nozzles for Niche Applications
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
The inventive concept adapts the low-pressure-drop acoustic suppressor nozzle for inert gas discharge systems to cater to specific, high-demand markets, such as high-security data centers, high-rise buildings, extreme weather conditions, disaster relief, and high-temperature applications.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed a low-pressure-drop acoustic suppressor nozzle for inert gas discharge systems. However, this design may not be suitable for unique operational environments that require specialized features. For instance, high-security data centers demand reduced noise levels, while high-rise buildings necessitate pressure-reducing devices to minimize pressure drop. The inventive concept addresses these limitations by introducing novel designs and materials tailored to these niche markets.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new inventive concept encompasses five specialized variations of the original nozzle design, each catering to a specific market need. The first variation features a specially designed sound-dampening material to reduce noise levels to less than 100 dB during inert gas discharge, ideal for high-security data centers. The second variation involves a method for suppressing fires in high-rise buildings using an inert gas discharge system with integrated pressure-reducing devices and sound-dampening materials. The third variation is a fire suppression system for extreme weather conditions, comprising a weather-resistant enclosure housing a low-pressure-drop nozzle and a pressure-reducing device, with a controller adjusting the flow rate and pressure drop based on ambient temperature and humidity. The fourth variation is a disaster relief fire suppression kit, including a portable inert gas discharge system with a specially designed low-pressure-drop nozzle and pressure-reducing device, along with adapters for connecting to various types of fire hoses and fittings. The fifth variation is a fire suppression nozzle for high-temperature applications, featuring a heat-resistant material for the nozzle and pressure-reducing device, and a specially designed sound-dampening material for reducing noise levels to less than 110 dB during inert gas discharge at temperatures above 500°F.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel features and materials that adapt the original nozzle design to specific niche markets, providing a non-obvious solution to the limitations of the original patent. The inventive step lies in the integration of specialized components and materials to address the unique requirements of each market, resulting in a family of nozzles that cater to diverse operational environments.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include using different sound-dampening materials or pressure-reducing devices, or incorporating additional features such as temperature sensors or flow rate regulators. Variations could also involve adapting the nozzle design for use with different types of inert gases or for applications in other industries, such as aerospace or marine.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential in various industries, including data centers, high-rise buildings, disaster relief, and high-temperature applications. The specialized nozzles can provide a competitive advantage in these markets, offering improved performance, reduced noise levels, and enhanced safety features. The target market includes fire protection system manufacturers, data center operators, and disaster relief organizations.
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 |