FIRE EXTINGUISHER ROBOT

Abstract

ABSTRACT The present invention relates to an autonomous fire suppression robot designed for efficient and precise fire detection and suppression in a variety of environments, such as industrial, facilities, commercial buildings, and residential spaces. The robot features a mobile platform mounted on a linear track, which provides stable and controlled movement along a predefined path. This allows the robot to navigate easily within structured environments, such as warehouses or multi-story buildings, ensuring consistent coverage. The robot is equipped with a 3-degrees-of-freedom (3-DOF) articulated arm that allows it to adjust its position and orientation in multiple directions, enabling the precise application of fire suppression agents to the fire source, even in hard-to-reach areas. For fire detection, the robot integrates a suite of sensors, including infrared cameras, smoke detectors,, and temperature sensors, which work in combination to identify fire sources and assess their intensity in real-time. Based on sensor data, the robot autonomously determines the best course of action and activates its fire suppression system, which includes a pressurized tank and a dispensing nozzle to release an appropriate extinguishing agent such as CO2, foam, water, or chemical agents, depending on the type of fire detected. The robot is fully autonomous, operating without the need for human intervention, and can be programmed to follow specific routes or respond dynamically to fire threats. This invention provides an advanced, efficient, and reliable solution for fire suppression, minimizing human risk and enhancing safety in both routine and emergency fire situations.

Specification

FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
PROVISIONAL / COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See section 10; rule 13)

1 Title of the invention: FIRE EXTINGUISHER ROBOT
2 Applicants
Name: MR.N.VENKADESH, Dr.G.RAVI, MR.GSS.TANUSH,
MR.R.YOKESH
20-Nov-2024/138619/202441090010/Form 2(Title Page)
b Nationality: INDIAN
c Address: SRI SAIRAM ENGINEERING, SAILEO NAGAR, WEST
TAMBARAM, CHENNAI - 600 044, TAM1LNADU, INDIA
The following specification describes the invention (in case the specification is provisional).
The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be
performed (in case the specification is complete)
(i) DESCRIPTION
(ii) ABSTRACT
(iii) CLAIMS

FIRE EXTINGUISHER ROBOT

COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
DESCRIPTION
The Fire Extinguisher Robot is an advanced autonomous fire fighting system designed
to provide efficient, precise fire suppression in industrial, commercial, and residential
environments. Mounted on a linear track, the robot utilizes a combination of three degrees of
freedom (3-DOF) to navigate along a fixed path while retaining the ability to adjust its
position and orientation for optimal fire-fighting performance. This 3-DOF actuation enables
the robot to perform intricate maneuvers, such as repositioning its nozzle to target fires at
varying heights or angles, ensuring effective and efficient suppression. The robot is equipped
with an array of sensors, including thermal cameras, smoke detectors, and flame sensors, that
allow it to detect fires autonomously. Upon fire detection, the robot activates its integrated
fire suppression system, which can dispense extinguishing agents such as CO2 or water
directly onto the fire source with high precision. This system can be programmed to respond
to different types of fires based on intensity, location, and environmental conditions, ensuring
optimal performance in diverse scenarios. The autonomous nature of the robot minimizes the
need for human intervention, reducing the risk to personnel in hazardous or hard-to-reach
areas. Its real-time decision-making algorithms process data from the sensors to determine
the most effective course of action, allowing the robot to make quick, accurate fire
suppression decisions. Designed to work in a variety of settings, from manufacturing plants
and warehouses to'office buildings, and residential complexes, the robot offers adaptability in
tackling fires in environments where conventional firefighting methods may be less efficient
or unsafe. Additionally, safety features such as emergency stop buttons, redundant sensors, and remote monitoring capabilities ensure that the robot operates reliably in critical situations. By combining the precision of 3-DOF actuation with autonomous navigation and fire detection capabilities, the robot provides an innovative solution for improving fire safety and reducing damage in high-risk environments. This invention offers a promising application in automated fire protection systems, search-and-rescue operations, and industries where rapid, efficient fire response is essential.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates to the field of robotics and fire safety technology, specifically to an autonomous fire-fighting robot system designed, for use in industrial, commercial, and residential environments. More particularly, the invention pertains to a 3- degrees-of-freedom (3-DOF) robot mounted on a linear track, capable of detecting and suppressing fires with high precision.. This robotic system integrates advanced fire detection sensors, such as thermal cameras, smoke detectors, and flame sensors, with a fire suppression mechanism, which may include CO2, water, or other extinguishing agents. The robot is designed to operate autonomously, reducing the need for human intervention in hazardous fire situations, and can be used in confined or structured spaces where traditional firefighting methods may be less effective or too dangerous. The invention addresses the growing need for enhanced fire safety in environments such as factories, warehouses, high-rise buildings,
and disaster-stricken areas by providing an automated, reliable, and precise means of fire
suppression, ultimately improving response times, minimizing human risk, and enhancing overall fire safety protocols.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
Fires are one of the most significant threats to life, property, and industrial operations,
causing millions of dollars in damage and posing substantial risks to human safety each year.
Traditional firefighting methods, which often rely on human intervention, may not always be
sufficient or timely in preventing large-scale damage, particularly in hazardous or difficult-toreach
environments. Firefighters are frequently exposed to dangerous conditions, including high heat, toxic smoke, and structural instability, making it essential to develop more efficient, automated, and safe methods of fire suppression. The need for advanced systems that can detect and combat fires autonomously has led to increased interest in the application of robotics in fire safety. Existing fire-fighting robots, while valuable in certain scenarios, typically suffer from limitations in terms of mobility, flexibility, and the ability to precisely target and suppress fires in complex or confined spaces. Many current systems are designed
for fixed installations or lack the necessary degrees of freedom to perform nuanced movements, such as adjusting the height and orientation of extinguishing nozzles or navigating around obstacles in dynamic environments. Furthermore, many robotic systems are not fully autonomous, requiring constant human oversight, which reduces their effectiveness in high-risk situations. As a result, there is a need for a more advanced,
autonomous robotic solution that combines flexible movement, precise fire detection, and rapid suppression capabilities. The present invention addresses these limitations by introducing a 3-degrees-of-freedom (3-DOF) linear track fire extinguisher robot that provides enhanced mobility, precision, and autonomy in fire detection and suppression. The robot is designed to be mounted on a linear track, enabling it to navigate specific paths with high control while utilizing three degrees of freedom to adjust its position and orientation as needed. This allows for more sophisticated movements compared to conventional systems and ensures that the fire suppression agent is deployed precisely where it is needed. Moreover, the robot is equipped with advanced sensors-such as thermal cameras, smoke detectors, and flame sensors-that enable it to detect fires autonomously and make decisions based on real-time data, eliminating the need for constant human monitoring.

By combining autonomous navigation with precise fire-fighting capabilities, the invention
offers a versatile and efficient solution to fire suppression, particularly in environments where
traditional firefighting methods may be impractical, dangerous, or inefficient. The robot can be used in a variety of settings, including industrial facilities, commercial buildings, high-rise structures, and hazardous environments like chemical plants or disaster sites, where quick
response times and minimized human exposure are critical. Additionally, the robot's ability to
work in confined or complex spaces-such as narrow aisles, cluttered areas, or multi-story
buildings-further enhances its usefulness in modern fire safety protocols.

This invention represents a significant advancement in fire safety technology, providing a
reliable, autonomous solution for early fire detection and suppression, ultimately improving
fire response capabilities and minimizing damage and risk to human life.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Brief Description of the Drawings:
Fig. I - Assembled view of Fire Extinguisher Robot.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION/ WORKING
20-Nov-2024/138619/202441090010/Form 2(Title Page)
The present invention introduces a novel autonomous fire-fighting robot system designed to enhance fire detection and suppression capabilities in a variety of environments, such as industrial, commercial, and residential settings. This system incorporates a robot mounted on a linear track, utilizing three degrees of freedom (3-DOF), which offers precise movement control and exceptional flexibility compared to traditional firefighting robots. The robot's key features include the integration of advanced sensors for fire detection, an autonomous navigation system, and an efficient fire suppression mechanism. This combination of technologies allows the robot to autonomously detect and suppress fires, reducing the need for human intervention and enhancing overall fire safety and response times in high-risk situations. The robot is mounted on a linear track, providing a defined path for movement while allowing for increased control within a given space, such as a factory floor, a warehouse, or even multi-story buildings.

The linear track ensures the robot follows a specified route, covering essential areas in a facility, while the 3-DOF actuation system enables it to move not only along the track but also adjust its position and orientation with high precision. The 3-DOF system typically includes a combination of linear and rotational actuators, allowing the robot to adjust its nozzle's angle to accurately target fires at different heights, depths, and angles. This flexibility in movement makes the robot well-suited for complex environments, where obstacles and changing fire conditions might demand rapid adaptation and precise fire suppression. The robot is equipped with a suite of advanced sensors, including thermal cameras, smoke detectors, and flame sensors, that enable it to detect fires autonomously. The thermal camera allows for the identification of heat signatures associated with the presence of a fire, while the smoke detectors and flame sensors provide additional layers of confirmation, ensuring the robot can accurately identify fire sources even in environments with obscured visibility. Once a fire is detected, the robot processes the sensor data in real-time, applying decision-making algorithms to determine the fire's location, intensity, and type.

Based on this information, the robot autonomously selects the most appropriate course of action for suppression. Upon identifying a fire, the robot adjusts its position and nozzle orientation to target the fire directly, utilizing its 3-DOF capabilities to ensure that the extinguishing agent is deployed in the most efficient manner. The fire suppression system, typically includes a nozzle that releases extinguishing agents such as CO2, water, or foam,

depending on the nature of the fire and the environment in which it occurs. By adjusting the
nozzle's angle and distance from the fire, the robot ensures that the extinguishing agent is
applied precisely to the fire source, minimizing the use of resources and maximizing suppression efficiency. The ability to apply the extinguishing agent with precision is a key advantage, as it allows the robot to suppress fires quickly and prevent them from spreading further. The robot's autonomous navigation system ensures that it can operate independently in its environment.

This allows the robot to operate in dynamic or cluttered environments, adjusting its path as
needed to reach the fire source. In the case of a multi-story building or a large industrial plant, the robot can move along designated tracks on each floor or area, autonomously making its way to the fire location, even in complex layouts. The 3-DOF design provides enough flexibility for the robot to reach difficult-to-access areas, making it well-suited for high-risk or confined spaces where traditional firefighting methods may be too dangerous or inefficient. One of the most significant advantages of this robotic fire-fighting system is its autonomy. The robot can be pre-programmed with specific tasks, such as a route or a list of areas to monitor, and then operate independently to carry out those tasks. The system uses advanced algorithms to process sensor data and make real-time decisions about fire detection, suppression, and navigation. This reduces the need for human oversight, making the robot especially valuable in high-risk environments where human intervention would be too dangerous. The robot's ability to operate autonomously also enables faster response times, which is critical in limiting the spread of fires and reducing potential damage. In addition to its autonomous capabilities, the robot includes safety features such as redundant sensors and fail-safes to ensure reliable performance in all conditions.

The robot also includes manual override options and emergency stop features, which allow human operators to intervene if necessary, providing an additional layer of safety and control. Furthermore, the robot is designed to be resistant to high heat, smoke, and other harsh conditions typically encountered in firefighting, ensuring it remains operational even in extreme environments. The invention has a wide range of applications, from industrial fire safety to emergency response in high-rise buildings or disaster scenarios. In industrial settings, the robot can navigate through aisles, around machinery, and up and down stairs to quickly locate and suppress fires before they spread, providing critical protection for both property and personnel.

EMPHASIZING THE ADVANTAGES OVER EXISTING INVENTIONS
20-Nov-2024/138619/202441090010/Form 2(Title Page)
The 3-DOF Linear Track Fire Extinguisher Robot offers several distinct advantages over existing fire-fighting robotic technologies, positioning it as a more precise, efficient, and versatile solution for modem fire safety needs. Traditional firefighting robots often face limitations in terms of mobility, flexibility, and autonomy. Many of these systems are designed for fixed positions or restricted to movement along single-axis tracks, reducing their effectiveness in environments with complex layouts or areas with multiple obstacles. In contrast, the 3-DOF actuation mechanism incorporated into this invention provides a significant improvement, allowing the robot to not only traverse a linear track but also adjust its orientation and nozzle position in three-dimensional space. This capability gives the robot unprecedented flexibility to target fires at varying heights, depths, and angles, making it suitable for a wider range of applications, including multi-story buildings, narrow aisles, and complex industrial environments. Existing robotic fire suppression systems also often lack full autonomy, requiring human operators to constantly monitor and control their actions. Its linear track allows for smooth travel along defined paths, and its 3-DOF system enables it to adjust its position for efficient fire suppression, even in spaces where human access would be dangerous or impossible. This is especially valuable in high-risk industrial settings, large warehouses, and high-rise buildings, where rapid fire suppression is critical. Finally, the integration of real-time decision-making algorithms based on sensor data ensures that the robot responds intelligently to changing conditions. Many existing robots rely on preprogrammed routines or require human operators to make decisions in real time. In contrast, the 3-DOF Linear Track Fire Extinguisher Robot processes fire detection data and adapts its actions autonomously, making it more responsive and effective in dynamic environments. Its ability to determine the best course of action for fire suppression-whether adjusting the suppression technique or changing its position to access different areas-sets it apart from current systems that are limited in their adaptability.

In summary, the 3-DOF Linear Track Fire Extinguisher Robot offers several distinct advantages over existing firefighting robots. These include superior mobility and flexibility with the 3-DOF actuation system, full autonomy for real-time fire detection and suppression, precise and efficient application of extinguishing agents, and the ability to operate in challenging, confined, or hazardous environments. By combining these features, the invention provides a far more effective, adaptable, and efficient solution to modem fire safety challenges, representing a significant advancement in fire suppression technology.

NOVELTY CLAIMED IN THIS INVENTION
20-Nov-2024/138619/202441090010/Form 2(Title Page)
The present invention claims several unique features that set it apart from existing fire suppression robots. The core novelty lies in the integration of a mobile platform equipped with a linear track, which ensures stable and controlled movement along a predefined path within a building or industrial facility. This track-based mobility provides enhanced navigation precision, which is crucial for reaching fire sources in large, complex, or cluttered environments. Unlike traditional robots that may rely on open-range movement, the linear track offers a defined route, improving operational efficiency and safety. Additionally, the robot incorporates a 3-degrees-of-freedom (3-DOF) articulated arm, mounted on the mobile platform, providing the robot with versatile movement capabilities. This arm can pivot horizontally and vertically and adjust its position around its base, enabling the robot to direct fire suppression agents with high precision to various fire sources, including those located at different heights or angles. The multi-directional flexibility of the arm allows the robot to reach difficult-to-access areas, making it particularly effective in confined or complex spaces like multi-story buildings or industrial plants. Another novel aspect of the invention is the integrated fire detection system, which combines multiple sensors, such as infrared cameras, smoke detectors, and temperature sensors, to autonomously detect fires in real-time. This system enhances the robot's ability to quickly identify fire sources and assess fire conditions, reducing response time and increasing the likelihood of successful suppression. Once the fire is detected, the robot's fire suppression system, comprising a pressurized tank and dispensing nozzle, enables the robot to discharge appropriate suppression agents-such as CO2, water, foam, or other chemical agents-directly onto the fire, based on the detected fire type.

Finally, the robot is designed to operate autonomously, further distinguishing it from existing fire suppression robots that often require manual intervention or predefined pathways. The combination of autonomous fire detection, suppression, and navigation, along with the flexibility of the 3-DOF arm and track-based movement, makes this invention highly effective, adaptable, and capable of responding quickly and efficiently to a wide range of fire emergencies in dynamic environments. These integrated features provide an advanced, reliable, and scalable solution for fire suppression in both commercial and industrial settings.

CLAIMS
WE CLAIM

1. A fire suppression robot comprising: A mobile platform with a linear track for stable and controlled movement along a predefined path; A 3-DOF articulated arm mounted on said mobile platform, configured to articulate in multiple directions to direct a fire suppression agent to a fire; A fire detection system mounted on said robot, the system comprising one or more sensors selected from infrared cameras, smoke detectors, and temperature sensors for detecting a fire source; A fire suppression system comprising a pressurized tank and a dispensing nozzle for discharging a fire suppression agent toward a fire.

2. The fire suppression robot of claim 1, wherein said 3-DOF articulated arm is capable of horizontal and vertical movement and pivoting around its base to direct the fire suppression agent to the fire source.

3. The fire suppression robot of claim 1, wherein said mobile platform is designed for operation on floor-mounted, ceiling-mounted, or wall-mounted linear tracks within a building or industrial facility.

4. The fire suppression robot of claim, 1, wherein the fire suppression agent includes CO2, foam, water, or a chemical agent appropriate for the detected fire type.

5. The fire suppression robot of claim 1, wherein said robot can be operated autonomously or manually via remote control.

Documents