Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
1185-2
BAC~GROUND OF TH~ INVENTION
Fire crisis management has been made so far by
man as an on site intellectual decision process where only
a limited amount of information could be efficiently
analyzed. As structures became more larger and more
complex, it soon became impossible to take into
consideration all the pertinent factors affecting fire
crisis management. A rational method based on scientific
approaches was needed so to be able to analyze all relevant
information.
To be efficient in crisis management, an expert
system has to provide prediction on a time reference in a
short period of time, or almost instantly. Large memory
computers having high speed data processing capabilities
only recently have made it possible to obtain such results.
Furthermore, multi-tasks have to be processed in parallel,
such as fire propagation prediction; data presentation;
evacuation signals displays; suppression means activation
and control. A multi-tasks exploitation system, and
efficient computer programming, were also necessary.
The present expert system invention makes use of
a computer procedure for the analysis of an enormous amount
of information for the prediction of fire propagation, for
the selection of appropriate means, for the diagnosis of
relevant actions, to activate mechanical systems for fire
suppression in a follow-up manner.
The expert system applies to all structures, such
as ships, offshore platforms, refineries, high risk
industries, horizontal and vertical buildings, nuclear
plants, aircraft and space vehicles.
Further, the expert system can be used by
architects and engineers for structure design analysis and
improvement purposes. Additionally, the expert system is
also capable of providing a simulated fire crisis which can
be used by intervention teams for training purposes in a
non-critical time frame. The expert system turns to a fire
crisis management function when a fire is announced. Fire
information may be entered manually, or preferably obtained
from a detection or monitoring system.
A fire crisis management expert system becomes
very useful, and even essential for preservation of life,
as real time on site crisis analysis tasks are often beyond
normal human capabilities. Occupied or crowded structures
need rational fire crisis management to provide adequate
instructions to the occupants for evacuation. Danger
suppression means activation may interfere with human
evacuation if not properly analyzed. The real time fire
crisis management expert system seeks to provide an
efficient answer to the above described situation.
The system can be used for fire crisis management
in lieu of a fireman team for a fully automated
installation; for less elaborate installation it can be
used in support of a fire intervention team for decision
making assistance at various levels.
The system can cope with multiple sensor signals,
such as the Christmas tree syndrome not yet addressed
elsewhere.
SUMM~RY OF TH~ INVENTION
The present invention seeks to produce
information, decisions and actions for structure fire
crisis management providing fire status; evacuation of
occupants; evacuation of smoke, heat, and fumes; and also
on fire or explosion risk suppression means. The expert
system can be initiated manually or can be initiated by
fire detection or monitoring devices. It predicts on a
time reference the fire propagation, most likely paths and
associated explosion risks, degradation or destruction of
the structure and of systems installed therein. The
evacuation of people is directed through analysis of the
appropriate escape route(s) and, if desired, automatic
operation of light signals installed within the structure
in strategic locations. The signals are adjusted as the
fire crisis situation evolves. Thus, the expert system
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develops a complete fire intervention plan, and provides
information to a user indicating the status of the fire
crisis within the structure.
Within the fire intervention plan, adequate fire
or explosion suppression means are selected amongst those
available and information on their use is provided for
manual, semi-automated or fully-automated functioning, as
a further part of the fire intervention plan.
The expert system compares its prediction with
signals received from the detection device(s) and
consequently adjusts itself.
The degradation of passive and active systems
within the structure resulting from fire or explosion is
anticipated and taken into account in the evaluation of
survivability of said systems, and their subsequent
efficiency for further use in managing the fire crisis.
The decision making process is based on a diagnosis process
constantly updated with regularly renewed data produced by
the fire propagation and explosion risk assessment modules.
Their predictions are regularly compared to all available
sensors device data.
The system is integrated as the structure
mathematical model made can be used in subsequent phases
for design purposes by architects and engineers, for
intervention team training prior to operation or delivery
of the structure and in current operation by launching
disaster simulations. Finally, in the last phase of
development of the model, it can be used as such in the
expert system. Coarse modelling is permitted at an early
stage of project definition and can be refined as the
project evolves.
The system is designed to read multiple types of
communication protocols from existing detection systems.
The invention includes as an option a simple
analogic binary communication protocol for sensors
recognition; this can be verified several times per second
for validity.
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The invention also permits retrofit installatlon
on an existing structure, without replacement of existing
detection system and cables, or as part of an upgrading of
an existing fire detection and control system.
Thus, in a first broad embodiment, this invention
seeks to provide an apparatus for fire crisis management,
or for simulating a fire crisis, within a structure,
including in combination:
(i) a computer device containing a
mathematical model defining the
structure;
~ii) a plurality of sensor devices located
within the structure, constructed and
arranged to provide data to the
computer device, which data is
indicative of the status of a fire
crisis at at least one locus .in the
structure;
(iii) a first program element contained in
the computer providing potential fire
damage and propagation in the structure
based on the data provided by the
sénsor devices;
(iv) a second program element contained in
the computer adapted to determine the
integrity and validity of the data
provided by the sensor devices; and
(v) a third program element contained in
the computer adapted to predict a fire
intervention plan, and to provide to at
least one user, through a user
interface, quantitative information
indicating the status of the fire
crisis within the structure.
Preferably, the apparatus includes means to
provide signals to activate automatic fire intervention
devices, such as fire and explosion suppression means;
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electrically and mechanically operated fire containment
means; fire alarm means; and occupant evacuation route
indicator means.
Preferably, the apparatus additionally includes
a substantially fire resistant memory means, capable of
showing at least some of the data generated and processed
during a fire crisis management, and which can be retrieved
intact after a fire crisis has been extinguished.
Preferably, the apparatus also includes a fifth
program element contained in the computer device adapted to
provide a simulation of a fire crisis within the structure,
and to provide to the first, the second, and the third
program elements data to predict a fire intervention plan
for the simulated fire crisis.
In a second broad embodiment, this invention
seeks to provide a method for the management of a fire
crisis within a structure, which comprises:
(a) recording in a computer device a
mathematical model defining the
structure;
(b) obtaining from at least one sensor
device within the structure data
indicative of a fire crisis;
(c) comparing the data by means of a first
computer program element contained in
the computer device with the
mathematical model and thereby deriving
potential fire damage and fire
propagation information;
(d) verifying the integrity of the data
provided by the sensor devices by means
of a second program element contained
in the computer device; and
(e) by means of a third program element
contained in the computer device
predicting a fire intervention plan,
and providing to at least one user
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interface quantitative information
indicating the status of the fire
crisis within the structure.
Preferably, the method includes the step of
receiving continuously the data provided by the at least
one sensor device, and, by means of a fourth program
element contained within the computer, updating the first
and third program elements in response to changes in the
fire crisis within the structure.
Preferably, the method also includes the further
steps of simulating a fire crisis within the structure by
means of a fifth program element contained within the
computer; providing to the first, second, and third program
elements data indicative of a simulated fire crises within
the structure; and predicting a simulated fire lntervention
plan in accordance with the simulated fire crisis, and
providing to the at least one user interface quantitative
information indicating the state of the simulated fire
crisis within the structure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF T~E DR~WINGS
Figure 1: is a flow chart summary of the fire
explosion crisis management expert
system.
Figure 2: is a description of components and
systems incorporated in the structure
mathematical model.
Figure 3: is a schematic diagram of the fire
propagation and explosion evaluation
procedure module.
Figure 4: is a detailed schematic diagram
illustrating correspondence between
modules and logical sequences.
DETAILRD DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
One embodiment of the invention will now be
described by way of reference to the drawings. This
embodiment was developed primarily for use in a ship, but
it is not so limited. It can be used for any relatively
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large structure, as is indicated above. In all
applications, a key factor is the mathematical model of the
structure, which is developed with direct reference to the
particular structure within whlch the expert system is to
be used. Thls will include definitions of available fire
containment and suppression means; of available sensor
devices and their several locations; of possible evacuation
routes for occupants; and any other particular factor
pertinent to the particular structure.
1. ~aRDWAR~
The system works Erom a computer including the
specially written programs. The computer can be either a
permanent installation, portable or laptop type unit to
suit operational requirements as shown in Figure 1.
The computer includes a mathematical model of the
structure definition either on hard disk or embedded in a
permanent memory (100). Fire or explosion occurrence can
be derived from sensor devices and/or monitoring devices,
or declared by the user in a signal recognition unit (200).
Thus, this will include a manually operated fire alarm
system.
The fire propagation and explosion assessments
are calculated by the computer (300) using the first
program element so to define the structure damage ~400) and
system damage (500) based on the mathematical model (100).
The computer executes a second program element,
which is an analytical process covering basic logical rules
for the integrity and the validity of fire crisis generated
data (600).
The computer also executes a third program
element, which is a diagnosis process providing prediction
of damage (700) to the structure and its integrated systems
including a comparison with the recent sensor device
signals received in (200). It verifies if the sensor
location signal (200) corresponds to 100, and questions
surrounding neighbours, as obtained in 100. It provides
the expert system decision making process, and erects a
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fire intervention plan with quantified information for
graphical understanding of the fire crisis status, which
can be displayed through monitoxs (1000) for the benefit of
occupants, including structure administration personnel and
fire crises management team members (1100). The computer
also provides signals and automated functions for
evacuation of occupants (900) with color codes for valid,
threatened, and impaired routes of evacuation, respectively
in green, yellow, and red. Other suitable alternative
identifying indication can be used in a monochrome monitor
(1000). Light signals, which are located in corridors,
doors, stairways, elevators, and other rooms and spaces,
together with other electrical and mechanical automated
devices can be activated through this module as described
below. Means of fire and explosion suppression through
electrical and mechanical devices (800) also can be
activated, as described below. The computer system can
also accept continuous incoming sensor device signals, as
it updates itself constantly.
2. MaT~RMATICAL MOD~
The manner in which the structure is defined as
a mathematical model is shown schematically in Figure 2.
In creating the mathematical model (100), a number of
factors concerning the structure are utilized.
The geometry of the structure (108) is
determined, and internal compartments are defined, together
with a definition of compartment functions, and internal
zones.
The internal barriers definition (120) will
include data on the ability of a given barrier to resist
both fire and explosion. Factors such as material of
construction, internal air layers, supporting structures
arrangements and inbuilt safety factors, cable and service
pipe penetrations, and ventilation system penetrations, are
all included. A further important factor in this
definition includes data on barrier destruction and blast
effects as a result of an explosion.
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The fire load definition for a given compartment
has two components. The permanent component (130)
represents the potentially combustible materials installed
in the compartment. This will include assessment of
combustible material type, weight -and volume; material
flash point; ignition temperature; and the nature of
vapours produced on combustion. The variable component
(190) represents potentially combustible materials
temporarily present in a compartment. ThiS will include
fuel, oil, and other combustibles; dangerous freight, such
as explosives; stores, such as paint and the like; and
chemical products requiring special handling in a fire
situation.
The detection system definition (140) includes
data on the devices present to detect and to monitor a fire
crisis. Thus, this definition includes data on available
sensor devices, such as fire detectors, smoke detectors,
vapour detectors, heat detectors, flame detectors, water
detectors, and air pressure detectors, together with the
control systems associated with these devices. This
definition will also include data on the strategic location
of system cables.
The suppression means definition (150) includes
data on the services available to suppress fire or
explosion. It thus includes data on available water
supply, together with quantity and pressure on both a short
and long term basis; inert gas systems; sprinklers; foam
systems; manual use fire extinguishers and their locations;
fire hoses; fire pumps, both to supply and to remove water,
including moveable units and their location; piping
systems; and electrical supply systems, including the
location of access points, fuses, and the like.
The major systems definition (1155) assesses the
systems installed within the structure in accordance with
the principal use of the structure. This will include the
location, function, and purposes of these systems; the
nature of the components used in them. This will also
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include an assessment of installed systems survivability as
a consequence of fire and explosion aggression.
In addition to these definitions for essentially
fixed parts of the structure, in addition to the presence
of inflammable materials, there are other variable
parameters which need to be considered. These are mainly
concerned with the use of the structure.
The openings definition (160) is concerned with
the status of openings, such as doors, windows, portholes,
hatchways, access panels, sacrifice panels, and the like.
The ventilation definition (170) is concerned
with the status of the ventilation system; forced, natural
circulation, funnels, chimneys, corridors, stair cases, air
and lift shafts, structure voids, ducting, and internal
pressure systems.
The environment definition (180) is concerned
with factors: such as the current use of the structure;
external weather conditions, including wind direction,
atmospheric pressure; visibility and structure orientation
relative to the prevailing weather conditions; date and
time of the cruise; status of the external electrical and
water supplies; status of external communication systems,
such as telephone and radio-telephonic links; and other
external conditions which may affect how a fire crisis is
managed. For a ship, for example, a material factor of no
relevance to a land structure is sea condition.
Finally, although the initial geometry and
compartments definitions can be readily determined based on
the original construction of the structure, a general
condition definition tlO4) is also used. This description
takes into account factors such as the age of the
structure; improvements and changes made during any refit;
geneneral maintenance policies, and the overall continuing
integrity of the structure.
The invention also permits a mathematical model
generated for structure design purposes to be transported
into the expert system for training purposes or crisis
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management. The model can be started in a coarse format
and refined or subdivided as the design or construction
evolves, and especially in response to any design
modifications. The invention permits to carry further any
modelling work already performed on a specific structure,
and avoids the duplication of work from the design phase
into an exploitation mode for the structure. The model can
be stored on a hard disk for prototypes or the initiation
phase of a project such as used in a design phase, and on
programmable chips for permanent expert system
installation.
3. FIRE PROPAGATION AND EXPLOSION PREDICTION
The system includes a computer program (Figure 3)
which defines fire propagation paths on the basis of a
scientific evaluation of barrier degradation as a
consequence of heat aggression. Once a fire recognition is
announced (200), a fire growth is calculated (310) to find
if there is established burning (312) and later full-room
involvement of all items present in the combustion (320).
Severity of fire aggression is calculated, heat
release and energy impact (330) are found and combustion
continuity is verified for burnout of combustible materials
(332), combustion rate (334), burning rate (336), self-
extinction by lack of oxygen or heat (338) and from
confinement (340).
Aggression on compartment barriers and their
resistance is defined (342) in parallel with explosion risk
assessments (350) and corresponding potential blast
overpressure (352). A barrier failure mode (360), if any,
is established from either durability (362), thermal (366)
or pressure (364) failures.
Probabilities of fire occurrence (370) in room of
origin of fire and adjacent compartments are calculated for
each room in a sequential manner creating a path of
propagation (380) through iteration (310) until a fire
propagation and explosion assessment path is completed
(300). The present invention makes it possible to modify
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in real time the number and location of rooms of origin and
adjust the propagation paths as new incoming signals from
sensors are generated as the fire crisis situation evolves.
Consequently, it is possible to keep the propagation path
updated based on both predicted and confirmed information.
4. INTEGRATED RXPXRT SYSTEM
The integrated expert system includes computer
driven automated hardware acting as a replacement of, or in
addition to, a fire intervention team providing functions
for crisis status monitoring, evacuation means and
suppression means as seen in figure 4.
The original structure mathematical model (100)
remains intact in conjunction with sensors and signal
recognition (200) as long as a degradation message is not
received from the sensor monitoring module (220) or from a
prediction produced by the first program element in the
analytical processor (600). In such event prewarning
messages are issued (210).
Any fire or explosion signal detected or
initiated implies an aggression definition check procedure
and assessment ~300).
Presence of an aggression generated structural
damage prediction (400, 420, 430, 440) and an internal
systems degradation is also evaluated (500). Both results
are integrated in an analytical process to define a common
fault tree procedure (600). The mathematical model (100)
is then adjusted to incorporate the latest analytical
findings for future reference.
The structure primary missions are evaluated and
assessed (640). A diagnosis process is initiated (700)
defining priorities, rules of conduct, means to apply to
the fire crisis in reference to the mission of the
structure, and prevailing external environmental
conditions.
An incompatibility verification procedure is
executed (750) so to avoid inadequate action, such as, for
example in using water in a compartment containing
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concentrated sulphuric acid. A fault tree analysis is
performed in order to respect current structures primary
mission (720). Once a preferred intervention plan is
confirmed after adjustments between the diagnosis process,
fault tree analysis, and incompatibility verification (700,
750, 720), a real time fire crisis intervention p~an is
activated (760) continually informing the mathematical
model (100) of detected or anticipated changes and
comparing any detection signal to predicted evolution and
adjusting when necessary. The plan is sent to the user
interface for understanding (1100) and to history
recollection black box (1150) for later inquiry purposes if
needed providing a time incremental basis for status report
(1110), evacuation means (1120), suppression means (1140)
and fault systems identification (1160).
Crisis status is compiled and updated (762) on
the basis of the real time update (760). The relevant
announcement module is activated (770) and in turn
activates a warning system (772), showing compartments or
zones to be evacuated (774) in a sequential manner, under
urgent and suggested qualifications. This is conveyed to
occupants by a graphical mode, and through light and/or
sound signals in the structure depending on compartment and
zones implied, and on the warning systems available within
the structure. Smoke invaded compartments, as detected and
predicted (776), are displayed in a graphical manner, also.
Air or gas overpressure detected or predicted
(778) are displayed in a graphical manner, as also are the
explosion risks (780), and structure stability threat by
use of water (782).
A "lost control" prediction (784) indicates
anticipated time to go for fire (786), explosion (788) and
structure stability (790).
Evacuation means decided under the intervention
plan are adjusted to a real time report (764). The signal
control interface (830) creates conventional communication
protocols to direct and control in a follow-up mode (900)
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the systems and apparatus needed for human evacuation, such
as circulation and emergency lighting systems within the
structure (910), indication of muster station safety
criterion (920) and escape routes (930), both to identify
and to classify as valid, threatened or impaired. Also
provided is activation of the ventilation system per zone
for evacuation of smokes, gas and heat with pertaining
dampers actuators (940). A pressure water system to be
activated if required (950) and water to be evacuated if
needed by drying pumps (960) are also controlled by (900),
so are the electrical supplies (9~0) for both main and
emergency sources and zones isolation. (900) also controls
ventilation supply machineries and ac'uators (990).
The suppression means selected (768) under the
intervention plan is detailed and communication protocols
created to be transmitted to the electrical and mechanical
control systems (840) operating in a follow-up mode the
following systems: ventilation dampers actuators in fire
zone (850), automated door controls (860), water diffusion
(870), water sprinklers (872), foam dispenser (874), deluge
system for total flooding (876), inert gas diffusion (878),
explosion risks suppression (880) and circulation light
signals network for access route to fire heart (882).
The system is designed to read multiple types of
communication protocols from existing detection systems.
The invention permits retrofit installation in existing
structures.
The invention permits prediction of degradation
of the structure and selection of pertaining preventive
countermeasures through automated electrical and mechanical
devices.
The preceding description of a preferred
embodiment has focussed on how the system reacts and
assists the management and fire fighting teams when an
ongoing fire crisis is present. It is also well known that
such teams are able to work better and more efficiently if
they can be adequately trained. It is eminently feasible
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to include into this system a further program element which
will simulate a fire crisis, and will feed to the remainder
of the system the necessary signals to initiate a simulated
event, and it's likely ongoing behaviour. This permits the
training in real time and on site of pertinent personnel
under realistic conditions, but ones which do not involve
the actual presence of a fire crisis. During such a
simulation, the expert system will develop a theoretical
fire interventlon plan, and provide to the users the same
sort of visual and audio data as would happen during an
ongoing fire. The system, when in the simulation mode, can
also include programming which will respond to the actions
taken to deal with the simulated crisis in much the same
way as will happen during a fire crisis.
