RU2846685C1 - Automatic fire extinguishing device and corresponding fire-fighting installation - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: fire-prevention equipment.

SUBSTANCE: group of inventions relates to an automatic fire extinguishing device and a corresponding fire-fighting installation intended for installation on a pipeline opening, said device comprising: a base having a through hole and a seal for sealing the connection between the hole and the through hole. Base further comprises at least two attachment points, and device comprises at least one clamping ring comprising: elongated element intended for partial envelopment of pipeline, wherein said elongated element interacts with base in said attachment points, and means for adjusting the length of at least one clamping ring so that the device can be installed on pipelines of different diameters.

EFFECT: development of automatic fire extinguishing device, which may be adapted to several existing pipeline diameters.

19 cl, 36 dwg

Description

Field of technology to which the invention relates

The present invention relates to the field of fire-fighting systems.

The present invention is based, in particular, on an automatic fire extinguishing device comprising at least one clamping ring, the diameter of which is adapted to several diameters of a pipeline.

The present invention makes it possible, in particular, to adapt a fire extinguishing device on site to several existing types of pipelines.

State of the art

Fires are one of the leading causes of industrial accidents. Therefore, fire prevention is a serious concern for companies and public spaces. Indeed, any fire-related incident can result in significant material and human damage. Therefore, companies are obligated to take measures to prevent the risk of fire, as any violation can lead to legal action and fines.

Fire protection systems typically consist of equipment designed to detect, indicate, and ensure the safety of a specific area. To achieve this, a fire protection system typically includes fire detection elements, suppression elements designed to prevent the spread of the fire, warning elements designed to notify of the presence of a fire, and a control station that receives information from the detection elements and activates the suppression and warning elements in the event of a fire.

Among the various types of systems, fire protection systems using pressurized water typically comprise a network of pipelines deployed within the protected area. These pipelines are equipped with automatic extinguishing devices, also known as sprinklers, which most often perform both suppression and detection functions. For this purpose, automatic extinguishing devices comprise a base with an opening, mounted to the pipeline. This opening is covered by a cap or temperature-sensitive fuse. In the event of a fire, an increase in temperature causes the cap to rupture or the fuse to melt, clearing the passage for pressurized water, which rushes through the opening to spray into the fire zone. In some embodiments, the water flow hits a deflector located directly opposite the opening of the automatic extinguishing device. This deflector helps expand and direct the water flow toward the fire zone.

There are also variations of this installation in which the fire extinguishing devices do not provide detection, but only spray. In this case, the pipes do not contain continuously pressurized water, and, furthermore, water is supplied to the extinguishing devices only upon detection of a fire. In these embodiments, the sprinklers do not contain any caps or safety devices to block the flow of water.

The first system for attaching automatic fire extinguishing devices to pipelines involves welding a coupling around a hole drilled in the pipeline. The automatic fire extinguishing device is then screwed onto the coupling. However, to match the color of the rest of the pipeline, the coupling must be painted or galvanized, which can only be done after welding, making the installation process more expensive.

To overcome these shortcomings, systems have been developed in which the coupling is fixed to the pipeline not by welding, but by means of a support ring.

According to the first exemplary embodiment, the automatic fire extinguishing device is independent of the support ring. For example, document EP 0 598 151 describes a support ring containing a connector that allows an automatic fire extinguishing device to be screwed to the ring. For this purpose, the support ring has two parts. The first part, which supports the connector, is curved to adapt to the shape of the upper portion of the pipeline. The second part has a spring-loaded effect and allows the support ring to be secured to the pipeline. In one embodiment, the second part may also be a curved, rigid part.

According to a second exemplary embodiment, the automatic fire extinguishing device may be formed as a single unit with the support ring. For example, document EP 3756733 describes a support ring comprising an upper portion containing the automatic fire extinguishing device and means for connecting to a lower portion(s). The upper portion is curved to adapt to the shape of the upper portion of the pipeline. In one embodiment, the upper portion may also be flat, as shown in documents DE 9106943 and GB 8422476.

The lower part is a rigid curved part, designed to adapt to the shape of the lower and/or side part of the pipeline.

In any case, the curved shape of the first part and/or the second part is such that it cannot be adapted to a different pipeline diameter.

Indeed, there are no standards defining the standardized size of fire sprinkler system pipes. Dimensions vary depending on needs and manufacturers. For example, pipes commonly available on the market have sizes that range from standardized diameters of 25 mm to 125 mm, also known as "DN 25" or "DN 125."

Therefore, for the systems proposed in previous documents, it is necessary to know the pipeline dimensions in advance to correctly select the support ring size. Therefore, this system lacks adaptability, which can lead to additional costs and installation delays if the ring sizes are not adapted to the pipeline dimensions.

In this regard, the technical problem that the present invention proposes to solve is the development of an automatic fire extinguishing device that can be adapted to several existing pipeline diameters.

Description of the invention

To solve this problem, the present invention proposes developing an automatic fire extinguishing device comprising at least one clamping ring made of a flexible material, allowing it to adapt to the shape and size of the pipeline. Therefore, the present invention is the result of the discovery that this flexible clamping ring can replace the rigid rings of the prior art without compromising the system's performance.

Indeed, fire protection systems are subject to very strict standards, requiring them to meet requirements upon commissioning and to maintain this compliance throughout their entire service life to ensure effective fire safety. These standards govern, among other things, the pressures that system components must withstand.

However, one skilled in the art may naturally find that the flexible clamping rings of the present invention have an excessive risk of wear and deformation, particularly when subjected to pressures of approximately 10 bar, as required in fire-fighting installations, for example, from 5 to 20 bar, and preferably from 8 to 12 bar. Therefore, one skilled in the art would avoid using these clamping rings for sprinkler applications in order to limit safety risks.

Thus, the present invention relates to an automatic fire extinguishing device intended for installation on a pipeline opening, wherein said pipeline is part of an installation designed to contain water under pressure from 5 to 20 bar, wherein said fire extinguishing device comprises:
- a solid base with a through hole, and
- a seal designed to seal the connection between the opening of the said pipeline and the through opening of the said base.

This fire extinguishing device is characterized by the following:
- the base additionally comprises at least two attachment points, and
- the fire extinguishing device comprises at least one clamping ring comprising:

• an elongated element designed to partially surround the pipeline, wherein said elongated element interacts with the base at said attachment points, and
• adjustment means independent of the base, allowing the length of at least one clamping ring to be adapted so that the fire extinguishing device can be installed on pipelines of different diameters.

In other words, the adjustment means allow the clamping ring length to be adapted to the pipeline diameter. For example, the ring can be long enough to accommodate diameters from 25 to 50 mm.

To ensure such adaptability, the control means can be made in the form of a loop interacting with recesses made in the elongated element.

The control elements are also independent of the base, ensuring they are located in a remote area of the base and thus best able to withstand the pressure limitations acting on the pipeline opening. Indeed, the further the control elements are removed from the base, the better the clamping ring resists stretching, deformation, and rupture.

Preferably, the adjustment means are installed diametrically opposite the pipeline opening to best compensate for the pressure exerted on the foundation by the pipeline opening. This way, the tension around the pipeline is better distributed.

According to the present invention, the base is a single-piece base, i.e., the base is a part formed from a single retaining element, as opposed to a part obtained by assembling several component parts, as described, for example, in document WO 2018/014066. Considering the high pressure involved, the use of a single-piece base ensures long-term durability over the warranty period, for example, 5 or 10 years of operation.

The combination of a seal, adjustment means, and an elongated element interacting with the base ensures a tight connection between the pipeline and the automatic fire extinguishing device, as well as the adaptability of the clamping ring to various pipeline diameters. The elongated element presses the base against the pipeline, compressing the seal located between the base and the pipeline. Under the pull of the elongated element on the base, the seal deforms to ensure a seal around the pipe's through-hole and conforms to the pipeline's curvature. Thus, the seal, under pressure from the base, compensates for the difference in curvature between the pipeline and the base. Furthermore, the adjustment means allow the elongated element to be secured in a compressed position, so the seal's compressive capacity also compensates for the lack of progressiveness in the clamping element's locking positions.

It follows that the traction force exerted by the elongated element on the base, the modularity of the control means and the deformation capacity of the seal make it possible to adapt the support device to pipelines of variable diameter.

Moreover, the adjustment elements and the oblong element are durable, meaning they do not deform or fail over time. Therefore, the connection remains tight for a long time.

Furthermore, the combination of adjustment and sealing means also allows the clamping ring length to adapt to very small variations in pipeline diameter due to manufacturing tolerances. Indeed, for pipelines of a given diameter, for example, for a diameter of 25 mm, the manufacturer's tolerance may provide a margin of +/- 1 mm within which the pipeline diameter can vary. Preferably, the recesses of the adjustment means have a sufficiently reduced pitch to allow for adaptation to the manufacturer's tolerances.

An automatic fire extinguishing device can be positioned in any orientation relative to the pipeline, provided it is secured to the pipeline opening. For example, an automatic fire extinguishing device can be positioned above, below, or to the side of the pipeline.

The length of the clamping rings corresponds to the useful portion of the rings intended for placement against the pipeline walls. While a clamping ring may have a fixed overall length, when adjusted, only one portion of the ring can effectively hold the automatic fire extinguishing device on the pipeline. The unnecessary portion can be trimmed off to prevent it from interfering with the automatic fire extinguishing device's fire suppression function.

This type of automatic fire extinguishing system primarily allows for a more compact installation. Indeed, the invention eliminates the need for a coupling to house the automatic fire extinguishing system. This configuration therefore reduces the height of the automatic fire extinguishing system, making it easier to install in confined spaces, such as storage racks or under low ceilings.

Furthermore, clamping rings that can be adapted to multiple pipeline diameters limit the number of different ring sizes, which reduces manufacturing costs. Furthermore, clamping rings can be adjusted virtually continuously, unlike prior art support rings, which are shaped to fit a single pipeline diameter.

Furthermore, the clamping rings according to the present invention allow for on-site adaptation of the automatic fire extinguishing system without the need to pre-determine the number and size of rings. This significantly saves time and reduces costs.

In one embodiment, the fire extinguishing device comprises a single clamping ring and only two attachment points located on either side of the base.

Indeed, a person skilled in the art who believes the flexible clamping rings of the present invention are too susceptible to wear and deformation would be forced to multiply the number of clamping rings to strengthen the clamping ring structure. However, contrary to all expectations, the present invention allows for the use of a single clamping ring without increasing the risk of, for example, leaks.

In the context of the present invention, "fastening points" correspond to the receiving elements of the base, which allow the clamping ring to be secured when the clamping ring encircles the pipeline. These fastening points may correspond to holes or projections, such as lugs.

According to an embodiment, the attachment points are through holes oriented in a direction parallel to the main direction of the pipeline, wherein the elongated element is installed on the base by inserting at least one end of the elongated element into the through holes and forming a loop around the boundaries of said base.

According to the present invention, the main direction of the pipeline corresponds to the direction parallel to the length of the pipeline.

Thus, installing the clamping ring on the base is simplified, as the adjustment method is easily reproducible and requires few tools. For example, simply insert the oblong element through two holes from the bottom up, ensuring that it encircles the pipeline. The ends of the oblong element are then pulled from the top of the base and folded over the ends of the base to clamp the clamping ring around the pipeline. The ends of the oblong element are then returned together and secured using the adjustment tools. This significantly speeds up the installation of automatic fire extinguishing devices on pipelines.

In practice, the through holes may correspond to slots made in the base. In one embodiment, the through holes may correspond to the space formed between the base and the axle mounted on the base.

Preferably, the openings are made symmetrically relative to the central axis of the base, which reduces the risk of incorrect placement of the automatic fire extinguishing device relative to the pipeline opening.

According to another embodiment, the two ends of the elongated element are configured to interact with attachment points located on both sides of the base, so that the elongated element partially surrounds the pipeline after acting on the control means.

In practice, each attachment point comprises a housing defined by two lugs separated by a slot of such a size as to allow the passage of an elongated member, the housing being designed to receive an axle fixed to the end of the elongated member, the lugs being designed to allow the insertion of the axles into the housing before the adjustment means are acted upon and to block the removal of said axles after the adjustment means are acted upon.

This simplifies installation of the clamping ring on the base, as the adjustment method is easily reproducible and requires few tools. Simply surround the pipe with the elongated element and lock its ends, equipped with a pin, into the base body. The clamping ring is then adjusted to the pipe diameter using the adjustment tools. This significantly speeds up the installation of automatic fire extinguishing devices on pipelines.

In one embodiment, each attachment point comprises an eyelet designed to engage with an opening formed at the ends of the elongated member.

The clamping ring is installed on the base by placing an elongated element around the pipeline so that its ends, equipped with a hole, are locked onto the base's lugs. The clamping ring is then adjusted to the pipeline diameter using adjustment means.

The elongated element can have various shapes. In one form, the elongated element is a strip, i.e., it has a ribbon-like shape. In another embodiment, the elongated element is a cable, thinner but equally strong. Indeed, the invention allows the use of elongated elements whose width is reduced without compromising the safety of the installation.

In practice, the elongated element is made of a metallic material, since, unexpectedly, the invention allows the use of different materials for the production of the elongated element without compromising the safety of the installation.

Preferably, the means for adjusting the length of at least one clamping ring comprise markers that allow the seal to be compressed to a predetermined degree.

This embodiment facilitates clamping ring installation and eliminates the risk of errors. A skilled technician can rely on visual markers during installation, indicating how tightly the clamping ring should be tightened to ensure optimal compression and leak-free sealing, depending on the diameter and operating pressure. In one embodiment, these adjustment markers can also be replaced by, or linked to, a device for measuring the clamping ring's adjustment tension.

Furthermore, in a preferred embodiment, the adjustment means are formed as a single unit with the end of the elongated element.

Indeed, this embodiment makes it possible to obtain a clamping of the automatic fire extinguishing device on the pipeline by performing a simple movement of pulling the free end of the elongated element.

A clamping ring with the above mentioned features allows to simplify and reduce the time required for installing an automatic fire extinguishing device on a pipeline.

However, the locking system of the elongated element may be different, which does not disrupt the correct operation of the present invention.

In some embodiments of the present invention, the automatic fire extinguishing device further comprises a temperature-sensitive element for blocking said through-hole and configured to release the through-hole when the temperature exceeds a threshold value in order to divert the flow of water from the pipeline.

The predominantly automatic fire extinguishing device also comprises a deflector fixed above the said base and designed to spray a stream of water coming from the pipeline.

These elements form the head of the automatic fire extinguishing device. The present invention encompasses embodiments in which the clamps and base form a monolithic block on which the deflector and blocking element are mounted. Alternatively, the present invention also encompasses embodiments in which the head, formed by the clamps, deflector, and blocking element, is independent of the base.

In other words, according to the first embodiment, the base and the head containing the deflector, clamps and/or blocking element form a monolithic block.

According to a second embodiment, the base and the head containing the deflector, clamps and/or blocking element are independent, and the head is mounted on the base by screwing, engaging in a grooved connector or by any other means of interaction.

According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a fire extinguishing system comprising:

- at least one pipeline having at least one opening, and

- at least one automatic fire extinguishing device, such as described above.

Preferably, the pipeline is painted or pre-painted on both its interior and exterior surfaces, meaning the pipeline has a paint coating on both its interior and exterior surfaces. Painting helps protect the pipeline from damage, particularly that caused by rust.

The applied paint must allow for drilling and cutting without peeling, significantly reducing fabrication time in the workshop. Indeed, the post-fabrication painting step, typically performed by conventional methods, is eliminated.

Preferably, the pipeline paint contains an epoxy-polymer binder that is particularly resistant to drilling and cutting.

Brief description of graphic materials

The method for implementing the invention, as well as the advantages arising from it, will become apparent from the description of embodiments given below, with the help of the accompanying graphic materials, in which:

Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a pipeline on which four automatic fire extinguishing devices are mounted according to four different embodiments,

Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of a pipeline on which four automatic fire extinguishing devices are mounted according to four other different embodiments,

Fig. 3 shows a front view of an automatic fire extinguishing device installed on a pipeline according to the first embodiment of Fig. 1,

Fig. 4 shows a side view of an automatic fire extinguishing device installed on a pipeline according to the first embodiment of Fig. 1,

Fig. 5 shows a top view of an automatic fire extinguishing device installed on a pipeline according to the first embodiment of Fig. 1,

Fig. 6 shows a front view of an automatic fire extinguishing device installed on a pipeline according to the second embodiment of Fig. 1,

Fig. 7 shows a side view of an automatic fire extinguishing device installed on a pipeline according to the second embodiment of Fig. 1,

Fig. 8 shows a top view of an automatic fire extinguishing device installed on a pipeline according to the second embodiment of Fig. 1,

Fig. 9 shows a front view of an automatic fire extinguishing device installed on a pipeline according to the third embodiment of Fig. 1,

Fig. 10 shows a side view of an automatic fire extinguishing device installed on a pipeline according to the third embodiment of Fig. 1,

Fig. 11 shows a top view of an automatic fire extinguishing device installed on a pipeline according to the third embodiment of Fig. 1,

Fig. 12 shows a front view of an automatic fire extinguishing device installed on a pipeline according to the fourth embodiment of Fig. 1,

Fig. 13 shows a side view of an automatic fire extinguishing device installed on a pipeline according to the fourth embodiment of Fig. 1,

Fig. 14 shows a top view of an automatic fire extinguishing device installed on a pipeline according to the fourth embodiment of Fig. 1,

Fig. 15 shows a front view of an automatic fire extinguishing device installed on a pipeline according to the fifth embodiment of Fig. 2,

Fig. 16 shows a side view of an automatic fire extinguishing device installed on a pipeline according to the fifth embodiment of Fig. 2,

Fig. 17 shows a top view of an automatic fire extinguishing device installed on a pipeline according to the fifth embodiment of Fig. 2,

Fig. 18 shows a front view of an automatic fire extinguishing device installed on a pipeline according to the sixth embodiment of Fig. 2,

Fig. 19 shows a side view of an automatic fire extinguishing device installed on a pipeline according to the sixth embodiment of Fig. 2,

Fig. 20 shows a top view of an automatic fire extinguishing device installed on a pipeline according to the sixth embodiment of Fig. 2,

Fig. 21 shows a front view of an automatic fire extinguishing device installed on a pipeline according to the seventh embodiment of Fig. 2,

Fig. 22 shows a side view of an automatic fire extinguishing device installed on a pipeline according to the seventh embodiment of Fig. 2,

Fig. 23 shows a top view of an automatic fire extinguishing device installed on a pipeline according to the seventh embodiment of Fig. 2,

Fig. 24 shows a front view of an automatic fire extinguishing device installed on a pipeline according to the eighth embodiment of Fig. 2,

Fig. 25 shows a side view of an automatic fire extinguishing device installed on a pipeline according to the eighth embodiment of Fig. 2,

Fig. 26 shows a top view of an automatic fire extinguishing device installed on a pipeline according to the eighth embodiment of Fig. 2,

Fig. 27 is a perspective view of the base of the automatic fire extinguishing device installed on the pipeline and the clamping ring according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention,

Fig. 28 shows a perspective view of the means for adjusting the clamping ring of Fig. 27,

Fig. 29 shows a partial sectional view of the means for adjusting the clamping ring of Fig. 27,

Fig. 30a is a sectional view of the first stage of the installation of an automatic fire extinguishing device according to the tenth embodiment of the present invention,

Fig. 30b is a sectional view of the second stage of the installation of an automatic fire extinguishing device according to the tenth embodiment of the present invention,

Fig. 30c is a sectional view of the third stage of the installation of an automatic fire extinguishing device according to the tenth embodiment of the present invention,

Fig. 30d is a sectional view of the fourth stage of the installation of an automatic fire extinguishing device according to the tenth embodiment of the present invention,

Fig. 31 is a high-angle perspective view of the base of an automatic fire extinguishing device according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention,

Fig. 32 shows a front view of the base of the automatic fire extinguishing device according to Fig. 31, and

Fig. 33 shows a perspective view at a low angle of the base of the automatic fire extinguishing device of Fig. 31.

Description of embodiments

As shown in Fig. 1 and 2, automatic fire extinguishing devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 800, 900, 1000, 1100 are installed on a fire-fighting installation containing at least one pipeline 40 .

The pipeline 40 is designed to withstand pressures within the range of ten bar, for example from 5 to 20 bar, and preferably from 8 to 12 bar. For this purpose, the pipeline 40 is preferably made of a material with good deformation resistance properties, typically steel, stainless steel, galvanized steel, copper, or chlorinated polyvinyl chloride.

In addition, the diameter of the 40 pipe can vary, typically from 25 to 125 mm, which is also called "DN 25" or "DN 125", depending on the needs associated with the protected area, the size of the installation and the location of the automatic fire extinguishing device relative to the water source.

For example, a fire-fighting installation can be formed from a central frame of a pipeline 40 of a larger size and branches formed by pipelines of a smaller diameter.

To install automatic fire extinguishing devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 800, 900, 1000, 1100 according to the present invention, one or more openings 42 are made in pipelines 40. The openings 42 have, for example, a circular shape when viewed from above, and have a diameter of 10 to 25 mm, which is also called "DN 10" or "DN 25". The diameter of the opening 42 is selected in accordance with the sprinkler head that will be selected to extinguish the protected area. In addition, it was also noted that the invention can also be implemented for pipelines from DN 32 to DN 40.

The distance separating two openings 42 is typically set between 2 and 4.6 m. Similarly, opening 42 should be located at least 1 m from the wall of the protected area. Recently, it has been noted that the distance separating two openings 42 can be as small as 0.9 m.

In Fig. 1 and 2, several embodiments of automatic fire extinguishing devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 800, 900, 1000, 1100 according to the present invention are shown. However, all embodiments have common elements. As an example, as shown in Fig. 3-5, automatic fire extinguishing devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 800, 900, 1000, 1100 consist of a solid base 24A-24D, 2AH-24K having a flat, substantially parallelepipedal shape with a thickness of 0.5 to 1.5 cm. In one embodiment, the lower side of the base 24E, 24G may have a slight curvature, as shown in Fig. 27 and Fig. 31-33. The curvature of the underside is selected to accommodate the curvature of a larger diameter 40- diameter pipeline, to which an automatic fire extinguishing device 500, 700 can be adapted. Recently, 3 mm thick 24E and 24G bases have been introduced.

The base 24A-24D, 2AH-24K can be obtained directly by a molding method, a material removal method such as machining or laser cutting, or also an additive method such as 3D printing.

Base 24A-24K additionally has, for example, a through hole 26 with a diameter of 2 to 10 mm. The diameter may be larger without changing the invention, typically from 10 to 500 mm.

Preferably, the seal 28 is located facing the underside of the base 24A-24K , typically between the base 24A-24K and the pipeline 40 , to surround the openings 26 and 42 of the base 24A-24K and the pipeline 40 , respectively. For example, the seal 28 is a rubber sealing ring with a thickness of 0.2 to 0.7 cm. In one embodiment, for larger diameter pipelines, the seal may contain lips and have a thickness of 0.5 to 3 cm.

The opening 26 of the base 24A-24K is preferably blocked by a heat-sensitive blocking element 23 , typically a glass cap or a fuse, designed to be destroyed when the temperature near the automatic fire extinguishing devices 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100 reaches a response threshold value typically from 57°C to 343°C.

There are several temperature standards for the failure of fuse caps and/or fuses. These standards are distinguished, in particular, by the color of the liquid contained in the cap. For example, red corresponds to a failure temperature of 68°C.

Preferably, the deflector 22 is located facing the opening 26 of the base 24A-24D, 24H-24K . The deflector 22 has a shape similar to an umbrella or a dome, i.e., a round surface, preferably curved, the concave part of which is located facing the opening 26 to intercept the water flow coming from the opening 26 and redirect it to the fire zone. In one embodiment, the deflector 22 may have any other shape that ensures effective distribution of the water flow.

The deflector is typically provided with ribs 21 around its perimeter. The deflector 22 is held in place by side clamps 29 , typically two. The assembly is made, for example, of brass, bronze, aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, or copper. A screw, for example, is secured at the junction of clamps 29 and the deflector. The screw allows both holding the deflector in place and applying pressure to the locking element 23 .

According to the embodiments shown in Fig. 1-26, the assembly formed by the deflector 22 , the clamps 29 and the blocking element 23 , also called the "head" 20 , is made as a single unit with the base 24A-24D, 24H-24K .

In other embodiments, illustrated, for example, in Fig. 27 and Figs. 31-33, the head 20 , which is not shown, may be independent of the base 24E, 24G , i.e. the head 20 can be mounted on the base 24E, 24G by aligning the through hole of the head 20 with the through hole 26 of the base 24E, 24G . For example, the head 20 may have a male part having a thread or groove and interacting with a second thread or groove made in the walls of the through hole 26 of the base 24E, 24G . Thus, the head 20 can be screwed or fixed using a grooved connector on the base 24E, 24G .

The clamping ring (rings) 30 allows (allow) the head 20 to be fixed and held on the pipeline 40 . The clamping rings 30 comprise an elongated element, such as, for example, a strip with a width of 0.5 to 2 cm or also a cable with a diameter of 0.2 to 1 cm. In one embodiment, the elongated element may be a serflex-type clamping element made of a metallic material. The clamping rings 30 also comprise means 32 for adjusting the length and clamping of the clamping ring 30 . The base 24A-24K may be provided with one or more clamping rings 30 depending on the needs of the installation and the diameter of the pipeline 40 .

The control means 32 are independent of the base 24A-24K .

According to the first example, the adjustment means 32 may also be independent of the elongated element of the clamping ring 30. They may consist of one or more installed parts that can be fixed or connected to each other on the elongated element to hold it in place.

As shown in Fig. 27-29, the clamping ring 30 can be made in the form of a metal strip 31 , and the adjustment means can comprise a loop 33A , independent of the strip 31 , containing a housing 35 , into which the ends of the strip 31 are inserted. Self-tapping screws 34 make it possible to make holes in the strip 31 of different thicknesses. Advantageously, the loop 33A has an opening 36 , allowing the lower part of the main part of the screw 34 to be received.

Thus, the elongated element can be directly adapted to the diameter and tolerance of the pipeline 40 by creating the opening necessary to compress the seal 28 with the optimal compression ratio and ensure the connection between the pipeline and the automatic fire extinguishing device is as tight as possible. Adjustment is performed "according to individual requirements," and the adjustment options are virtually unlimited.

In one embodiment, not shown in the figures, the elongated element may be a metal strip containing holes spaced evenly and closely along the elongated element. To ensure the elongated element can be directly adapted to the pipeline diameter and tolerance, the pitch between the holes is preferably less than or equal to the manufacturer's tolerance. Typically, if the pipeline diameter is 25 mm and the tolerance is +/- 1 mm, the pitch between the holes is less than or equal to 1 mm. This allows the seal to be compressed with an optimal degree of compression, and the connection between the pipeline and the automatic fire extinguishing device is made as airtight as possible.

In order to fix the base 24E on the pipeline 40 , it is positioned on the opening 42 of the pipeline 40 so that the clamps of the head are aligned with the length of the pipeline 40 so that the water flows out in a direction perpendicular to the main direction D of the pipeline 40. The two ends of the strip 31 are inserted in an upward movement through the fastening points formed by the side openings 25E , so that the strip 31 surrounds the pipeline 40. The ends of the strip 31 are then pulled out from the top of the base 24E and folded over the ends of the base 24E to clamp the clamping ring 30 around the pipeline 40. The ends of the strip 31 are then connected together, thus forming a loop around each edge of the base 24E . The ends of the strip 31 are then fixed together by means of the adjustment means 32 .

Thus, as shown in Fig. 29, the loop 33A is located on the first thickness of the strip 31. The ends of the strip 31 are then bent and inserted into the body 35 of the loop 33A , then clamped so as to effectively hold the base 24E on the pipeline 40. For this, the ends of the strip 31 extend from each side of the body 35 for a length of at least 1 cm. Thus, the ends of the strip 31 are superimposed on the main part 37 of the loop 33A . Finally, the screw 34 is inserted into this superposition place and makes a hole in the two thicknesses formed by the ends of the strip 31 .

In the embodiment shown in Fig. 30a-30d, the adjustment means 32 can be made as a single unit with the end of the strip. Thus, the clamping ring 30 can be made in the form of a metal strip 31 , and the adjustment means can comprise a loop 33B containing a housing 35 attached to the end of the strip 31 .

The body 35 may have the shape of a tube with a parallelepiped cross-section, designed to ensure the passage of a portion of the metal strip 31. In addition, fixing means, such as a self-tapping screw 34 , may be placed on the body 35 perpendicular to the length of the tube and in the direction of movement of the strip 31 in the tube, in order to limit the movement of the strip 31 when it is compressed around the pipeline 40 and inserted into the tube.

In an alternative embodiment, not shown, the locking means comprise a ball located in a tube and designed to block the movement of the elongated element. To achieve this, the tube has a variable cross-section. Typically, the tube's cross-section tapers from a dimension greater than the ball's diameter to a dimension substantially equal to the ball's diameter. Thus, as the elongated element slides within the tube, the ball moves in a direction opposite to the insertion direction of the elongated element, toward the reduced-dimension portion of the tube, where it is locked. The ball thus also locks the elongated element.

In the embodiment according to Fig. 30a-30d, the spaces 25F of the base 24F are used to create fixation points of the strip 31. For this purpose, as shown in Fig. 30a, the end of the strip 31 not provided with the loop 33B is inserted in a first movement M1 to surround the first fixation point of the base 24F . This movement M1 is performed by inserting the strip 31 into the space 25F from the upper side of the base 24F to the lower side of the base 24F until the strip 31 reaches along the pipeline 40 .

In this way, the strip 31 moves around the pipeline 40 to the second fixing point of the base 24F . As shown in Fig. 30b, the strip 31 is thus introduced into the space 25F according to the movement M2 in order to surround the second fixing point of the base 24F . This movement M2 is performed by inserting the strip 31 into the space 25F from the lower side of the base 24F to the upper side of the base 24F until the strip 31 reaches along the pipeline 40 .

Thus, the strip 31 is inserted into the loop 33B according to the movement M3 illustrated in Fig. 30c. The clamping ring 30 is then compressed around the pipeline 40 , pulling the end of the strip 33 after it passes into the body of the loop 33B , according to the movement M4 .

In some embodiments, when the required compression tension of the strip 31 is achieved, the means for fixing the strip 31 in the housing can be inserted into the loop 33C by an action in the direction M5 , perpendicular to the length of the housing 35 , for example, as shown in Fig. 30d. Subsequently, the remaining end of the strip 31 , passing past the loop 33C , can be optionally separated.

In addition, the strip may also have recesses or grooves that allow the adjustment means 32 to be received or blocked.

Preferably, the clamping ring 30 also has markers that allow the clamp to be adapted to the pressure and diameter of the pipeline 40 .

There are several embodiments that allow the clamping ring 30 to be attached to the base 24A-24K .

As shown in Fig. 3-5, in the first embodiment, the base 24A has the shape of a parallelepiped with bevels at the corners. The base 24A has a length of 2 to 10 cm and a width of 2 to 5 cm. The length of the base 24A is intended to be located in a direction perpendicular to the main direction D of the pipeline 40. The base 24A has at its ends two lateral grooves 25A made in the thickness of the base 24A , essentially parallelepiped-shaped and intended to ensure the passage of the strip 31 of the clamping ring 30 .

As shown in Fig. 6-8, in the second embodiment, the base 24B has the shape of a parallelepiped with a length of 4 to 10 cm and a width of 4 to 10 cm. The length of the base is intended to be oriented in a direction perpendicular to the main direction D of the pipeline 40. The base 24B has a central groove in the shape of a parallelepiped, as well as two lateral recesses that allow the clamps 29 to be received and secured. Additionally, the base 24B has two grooves 25B at its ends, made in the thickness of the base 24B , essentially parallelepiped-shaped and intended to ensure the passage of the strip 31 of the clamping ring 30 .

As shown in Fig. 9-11, in the third embodiment, the base 24C has the shape of a parallelepiped with a length of 2 to 10 cm and a width of 2 to 5 cm. The length of the base is intended to be oriented in a direction perpendicular to the main direction D of the pipeline 40. The base 24C has attachment points formed by two recesses that allow the creation of openings 25C . The end of the recesses contains two axes 43. Thus, the strip 31 of the clamping ring 30 passes through the openings 25C and forms a loop around the axes 43 .

As shown in Fig. 12-14, in the fourth embodiment, the base 24D has the shape of a parallelepiped with a length of 2 to 8 cm and a width of 2 to 5 cm. The length of the base 24D is intended to be oriented in a direction perpendicular to the main direction D of the pipeline 40 .

The base 24D further has means for fixing two axes 43 mounted on both sides of the base 24D . The axes 43 are attachment points for the clamping ring 30 , arranged so as to leave a space 25D free between the edges of the base 24D and the axes 43. This space 25D is intended to ensure the passage of the strip 31 of the clamping ring 30 , which makes it possible to form a loop around the axes 43 .

As shown in Fig. 15-17, in a fifth embodiment, the base 24H comprises two attachment points 25H on both sides of the base 24H . Each attachment point 25H comprises a housing 49 having a depth of 0.3 to 1 cm and a size allowing it to receive an axle 47 with a length of 0.5 to 4 cm and a diameter of 0.1 to 1 cm. In this fifth embodiment, the housing 49 extends across the entire width of the base 24H . The housing 49 is limited by two parallelepiped-shaped lugs 48. Preferably, the upper part has a beveled or rounded shape allowing it to guide the movement of the axle 47 toward the housing 49 during the installation of the two axles 47 at the attachment points 25H . The two lugs 48 are separated by a slot whose size allows it to pass a cable 39 and to hold the axle 47 during the clamping of the cable 39 around the pipeline 40 . Thus, when the cable 39 is stretched around the pipeline 40 , the axis 47 is fixed in the housing 49 , held by the eyes 48 .

As shown in Fig. 18-20, in the sixth embodiment, the housing 49 of the attachment points 25I may have a smaller depth without causing the axle 47 to be removed. The width of the slot may be further adapted to the width of the elongated element 31. In the sixth embodiment, the size of the slot allows the strip 31 to pass through.

As shown in Fig. 21-23, in the seventh embodiment, the base 24J has fastening points 25J comprising an eye 50 intended to interact with an opening formed at the ends of the elongated element 31. To install the elongated element on the base 24J , the openings of the elongated element 31 are inserted into the eyes 50 so as to also surround the pipeline 50 , then the clamping ring 30 is adapted to the diameter of the pipeline using the adjustment means 32 .

As shown in Fig. 24-26, in the eighth embodiment, the base 24K has a body 49 limited by two lugs 48 separated by a slot, the size of which allows the elongated element 31 to pass along the width. The slot is closed by a plate connecting the two lugs 48 , thus creating a space with a thickness of 0.05 to 0.2 cm, which does not allow the axis 47 to pass, but only the elongated element 31. Thus, in order to insert the elongated element 31 , it is necessary to first remove the axis 49 , then the end portion of the elongated element 31 is inserted into the slot closed by the plate. Then, the axis 47 is fixed on the end of the elongated element 31 , for example, by inserting it into a loop created at the end of the elongated element 31 . Finally, the axle 47 is inserted into the housing 49. Thus, the axle 47 cannot be removed from the housing 49 because it is blocked by the presence of the plate.

As shown in Figure 27, in the ninth embodiment of the present invention, the base 24E comprises grooves 25E formed in the thickness of the base 24E . At the bottom of the grooves 25E , an opening 46 is also formed, allowing the groove to open outward. This opening 46 allows the strip 31 to best adapt to the shape of the pipeline 40 .

As shown in Fig. 31-33, in an eleventh embodiment, the base 24G can be installed on the pipeline 40 before the fire extinguishing device is fixed on the base 24G . In this embodiment, the base 24G has a substantially hexagonal shape with a length of 2 to 8 cm and a width of 2 to 5 cm. The length of the base 24G is intended to be oriented in a direction perpendicular to the main direction D of the pipeline 40 .

The base 24G further has two pairs of lateral grooves 25G , formed on both sides of the base 24G in the thickness of the base 24G , substantially having the shape of a parallelepiped and intended to ensure the passage of two clamping rings 30. Preferably, the grooves are located at a distance from each other from 1 to 3 cm. This type of base 24G is particularly shown in the case where the fire extinguishing device has a head 20 provided with grooves, mounted on the base 24G , for example, for pipelines 40 of large diameter, usually exceeding DN50.

The installation of two clamping rings 30 is carried out in the same manner as described in Fig. 17a-17d, and the clamping rings 30 can be installed simultaneously one after the other.

In conclusion, the present invention makes it possible to develop an automatic fire extinguishing device that can adapt to all existing pipeline diameters.

Claims (28)

1. An automatic fire extinguishing device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100) designed for installation on an opening (42) of a pipeline (40), wherein said pipeline (40) is part of an installation designed to contain water under pressure from 5 to 20 bar, wherein said device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100) comprises: - fire extinguishing equipment, - a solid base (24A-24K) having a through hole (26), and - a seal (28) designed to seal the connection between the opening (42) of the said pipeline (40) and the through opening (26) of the said base (24A-24K), characterized in that: - the base (24A-24K) further comprises at least two attachment points (25A-25K), and - the device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100) contains at least one clamping ring (30) made of flexible material, containing: • an elongated element (31, 39) designed to partially surround the pipeline (40), wherein said elongated element (31, 39) is configured to interact with the base (24A-24K) at said attachment points (25A-25G), and is equipped with recesses, and • adjustment means (32) independent of the base (24A-24K) and made as a single unit with one end of the elongated element (31, 39), wherein said adjustment means (32) are designed with the possibility of being received or fixed by recesses of the elongated element (31, 39), making it possible to adapt the length of at least one clamping ring (30) so that the device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100) can be installed on pipelines (40) of different diameters; wherein said means (32) for adjustment comprise a housing (35) into which the ends of an elongated element (31, 39) are inserted, wherein at least one end is made with the possibility of movement by means of a movement (M4) pressing the elongated element (31, 39) to the pipeline, a screw (34) is intended for fixing the ends of the elongated element (31, 39) together and obtaining the desired tension when compressing the elongated element (31, 39), wherein this tension makes it possible to withstand a pressure of 5 to 20 bar. 2. The device according to paragraph 1, characterized in that it contains one single clamping ring (30) and only two fastening points (25A-25K), located on both sides of the base (24A-24K). 3. The device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the fastening points (25A-25G) are through holes oriented in a direction parallel to the main direction (D) of the pipeline (40), and the elongated element (31, 39) is designed with the possibility of inserting at least one end of the elongated element (31, 39) into the through holes and by forming a loop around the boundaries of the said base (24A-24G). 4. The device according to paragraph 3, characterized in that the through holes are slots made in the base (24A-24G). 5. The device according to claim 3, characterized in that the through holes correspond to the space formed between the base (24A-24G) and the axis (47) of the base (24A-24G). 6. The device according to claim 2, characterized in that the two ends of the elongated element (31, 39) are designed with the possibility of interaction with the attachment points (25H-25K) located on both sides of the base (24H-24K), so that the elongated element (31, 39) partially surrounds the pipeline (40) after acting on the control means (32). 7. The device according to claim 6, characterized in that each point (25H-25K) of fastening comprises a housing (49) limited by two lugs (48) separated by a slot of such a size as to ensure the passage of an elongated element (31, 39), and the housing (49) is intended to receive an axle (47) fixed at the end of the elongated element (31, 39), and the lugs (48, 50) are intended to ensure the insertion of the axles (47) into the housing (49) before acting on the adjustment means (32) and to block the extraction of said axles (47) after acting on the adjustment means (32). 8. The device according to paragraph 6, characterized in that each point (25H-25K) of fastening contains an eye (50) intended for interaction with an opening made at the ends of the elongated element (31, 39). 9. A device according to any one of paragraphs 1-8, characterized in that the elongated element (31) is a strip. 10. A device according to any one of paragraphs 1-8, characterized in that the elongated element (39) is a cable. 11. A device according to any one of paragraphs 1-9, characterized in that the elongated element (31, 39) is made of a metallic material. 12. A device according to any one of paragraphs 1-11, characterized in that the means (32) for adjusting the length of at least one clamping ring (30) contain visual markers indicating how much the clamping ring should be clamped depending on the diameter of the tube and the operating pressure, allowing the seal (28) to be compressed to a predetermined degree. 13. A device according to any one of paragraphs 1-12, characterized in that it additionally comprises an element (23) for blocking said through hole (26), sensitive to temperature and configured to release the through hole (26). 14. A device according to any one of paragraphs 1-13, characterized in that it additionally comprises a deflector (22) fixed above said base (24A-24K) and designed to spray a stream of water coming from a pipeline (40). 15. The device according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that the base (24A-24K) and the head (20), containing a deflector (22), clamps (29) and/or a blocking element (23), form a monolithic block. 16. The device according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that the base (24A-24G) and the head (20) containing the deflector (22), clamps (29) and/or blocking element (23) are independent, and the head (20) is mounted on the base (24A-24K) by screwing. 17. A fire-fighting installation comprising: - at least one pipeline (40) having at least one opening (42), and - at least one automatic fire extinguishing device (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100) according to any of paragraphs 1-16. 18. A fire-fighting installation according to paragraph 17, characterized in that the pipeline (40) is a pipeline painted on its inner and outer sides. 19. A fire-fighting installation according to paragraph 18, characterized in that the paint on the pipeline (40) contains an epoxy-polymer binder.