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(11) | EP 4 524 401 A1 |
| (12) | EUROPEAN PATENT APPLICATION |
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| (54) | COMPACT FIRE EXTINGUISHING UNIT |
| (57) The invention relates to a fire extinguishing unit (1) comprising: - a pumping member (2) comprising a pump body on which are defined: ∘ a fluid inlet section (3a) to allow for fluid ingress, and ∘ a fluid delivery section (3b) to allow fluid, intended for a fire extinguishing plant, to flow out of the pumping member (2), - a motor (4) configured to operate on the pumping member (2), - a box body (6) housing the motor (4) and the pump body (3). The fluid inlet section (3a) and the fluid delivery section (3b) have a respective axis (A3a, A3b) and the pumping member (2) is configured to assume, in at least one condition, a spatial orientation according to which the axis (A3a) of the fluid inlet section (3a) and the axis (A3b) of the fluid delivery section (3b) lie on the same horizontal plane. |
Technical field of the invention
[0003] The fire extinguishing unit is configured to increase and maintain water pressure within a fire extinguishing plant with which the fire extinguishing unit can be associated. The fire extinguishing unit is configured for professional or industrial applications in automatic sprinkler and/or hydrant systems, in particular according to UNI EN 12845 and/or UNI 10779.
Prior art
[0004] Fire extinguishing units are known. Such fire extinguishing units usually require a large volume to be installed and are therefore bulky.
[0005] The Applicant has noted how, by making appropriate technical adjustments, the size of these fire extinguishing units can be reduced, and they can therefore be installed in smaller volumes.
[0006] Moreover, the installation process of known fire extinguishing units is often long and laborious.
[0007] Therefore, the Applicant noted that even the process of installing a fire extinguishing unit could be improved over known processes.
Aims of the invention
[0008] The main purpose of the present invention is therefore to overcome the drawbacks previously described in connection with the prior art.
[0009] The aim of the present invention is therefore to provide a compact fire extinguishing unit, which can also be installed in small spaces.
[0010] A further aim of the invention is to provide a fire extinguishing unit that is flexible in terms of installation, i.e. that can be installed outdoors (outdoor fire extinguishing unit), while still retaining the possibility of installation in an enclosed environment, for example in a technical compartment or a fire extinguishing room.
[0011] The invention also provides an installation process that allows the fire extinguishing unit to be installed easily and effectively.
[0012] The invention also provides a highly effective alternative technical solution to the prior art.
[0013] These and other aims are achieved by a fire extinguishing unit, a fire extinguishing system, a use of a fire extinguishing unit use and an installation process of a fire extinguishing unit in accordance with the following description, the attached claims and the following aspects.
Summary of the invention
[0014] Aspects of the invention, which form an integral part of the technical content of this patent text, are described herein. These aspects may be used to limit claims and/or define further claims during the life of this patent right.
[0015] The invention provides for a compact fire extinguishing unit, whereby its overall size can be reduced. This is achieved by the provision of a box body, or cabinet, housing the motor configured to drive the pumping member and/or, at least partially or completely, the pumping member itself. The box body is integrated (built-in) in the fire extinguishing unit. The box body may have a substantially parallelepiped shape.
[0016] The invention provides a process for installing a fire extinguishing unit which allows the fire extinguishing unit to be installed at an installation site in an easy manner. The process may involve moving, in particular rotating, the pumping member and, optionally, the motor.
FIRE EXTINGUISHING UNITS
[0018]
- 1. Fire extinguishing unit comprising:
- a pumping member configured to pump fluid and comprising:
∘ a fluid inlet section configured to enable fluid to enter, and
∘ a fluid delivery section configured to enable fluid, destined to a fire extinguishing plant, to exit the fluid pumping member,
- preferably, a motor configured to operate on the pumping member,
- a box body, in particular a cabinet, housing at least the motor, optionally also the pumping member or at least a part of it, the box body defining the overall size of the fire extinguishing unit.
- a pumping member configured to pump fluid and comprising:
- 2. Aspect according to aspect 1, in which the pumping member comprises a pump body on which the fluid inlet section and fluid delivery section are defined.
- 3. Aspect according to aspect 2, in which the fluid inlet section is configured to allow fluid to enter the pump body.
- 4. Aspect according to aspect 1 or 2 or 3, in which the box body houses the motor and pump body.
- 5. Aspect according to any of the above aspects, in which the box body is hollow.
- 6. Aspect according to any of the previous aspects, in which the box body is built-in, i.e. it is integrated into the fire extinguishing unit.
- 7. Aspect according to any of the above aspects, in which:
- the box body houses, in particular entirely, both the motor and the pumping member,
- the fluid inlet section and the fluid delivery section have a respective axis,
- the pumping member is configured to take, in at least one condition, a spatial orientation according to which the axis of the fluid inlet section and the axis of the fluid delivery section lie on a horizontal plane.
- 8. Aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the pumping member is fixed in the spatial orientation according to which the axis of the fluid inlet section and the axis of the fluid delivery section lie on the same horizontal plane.
- 9. Aspect according to aspect 8, wherein the pumping member is not configured to be moved between a spatial orientation according to which the axis of the fluid inlet section and the axis of the fluid delivery section lie on the same horizontal plane and a spatial orientation according to which the axis of the fluid inlet section and the axis of the fluid delivery section lie on the same vertical plane.
- 10. Aspect according to any of the previous aspects, in which the pump line forms a 90° angle downstream of the fluid inlet section.
- 11. Aspect according to any one of aspects 1 to 7 or aspect 10, wherein the pumping member is configured to be moved between said spatial orientation, or first spatial orientation, in accordance with which the axis of the fluid inlet section and the axis of the fluid delivery section lie on a horizontal plane, in particular a same horizontal plane, and a second spatial orientation in accordance with which the axis of the fluid inlet section and the axis of the fluid delivery section lie on a vertical plane, in particular a same vertical plane.
- 12. Aspect according to aspect 11, wherein the pumping member is configured to assume the first spatial orientation at a stage prior to installation of the fire extinguishing unit and is configured to assume the second spatial orientation under conditions of use of the fire extinguishing unit, i.e., subsequent to installation of the fire extinguishing unit.
- 13. Aspect according to aspect 11 or 12, wherein in the first spatial orientation the pumping member assumes a pre-installation position, preferably wherein the pumping member is arranged substantially horizontally, and in the second spatial orientation the pumping member assumes an installation position, preferably wherein the pumping member is arranged substantially vertically.
- 14. Aspect according to aspect 11 or 12 or 13, wherein the box body comprises a housing configured to allow the pumping member to assume its first spatial orientation at a stage prior to the installation of the fire extinguishing unit.
- 15. Aspect according to any of the above aspects, in which:
- the fire extinguishing unit or pumping member comprises a connection member having elongated shape arranged between the motor and a rotating unit (impeller) of the pumping member,
- in the stage prior to the installation of the fire extinguishing unit, the housing is traversed by the connection member.
- 16. Aspect according to aspect 15, wherein the fire extinguishing unit comprises a transmission coupling and/or a shaft configured to transmit motion from the engine to the pumping member, the transmission coupling and/or shaft being housed within the connection member having elongated shape.
- 17. Aspect according to aspect 15 or 16, in which the housing provides a opening passing through a thickness of the box body.
- 18. Aspect according to any one of aspects 1 to 7 or 10 to 17, where:
- the fire extinguishing unit comprises a support structure, e.g. a bedplate, and a rotating element committed to the support structure,
- the pumping member is engaged to the rotation element,
- the rotation element is configured to cause the pumping member to rotate relative to the support structure.
- 19. Aspect according to aspect 18, in which:
- the rotation element comprises a plate hinged to the support structure,
- the plate has a through opening, for example a through hole,
- the pumping member is of the multi-stage type and comprises a multi-stage section and a connection member arranged between the pump body and the multi-stage section,
- the through opening is crossed by the connection member, the pump body and the multi-stage section being arranged in opposition to the plate.
- 20. Aspect according to any one of aspects 11 to 19, wherein the fire extinguishing unit comprises a locking element configured to lock or unlock the movement of the pumping member between the first spatial orientation and the second spatial orientation.
- 21. Aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, in which the box body includes one or more doors to allow access and/or maintenance to components housed therein.
- 22. Aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, in which the box body comprises at least one door on a first flank of the box body and at least one door on a second flank opposite the first flank.
- 23. Aspect according to any of the above aspects, in which the box body comprises a pair of doors on the first flank and a pair of doors on the second flank.
USE
[0019]
24. Use of the fire extinguishing unit in accordance with any of the preceding aspects and/or the appended claims, wherein the fire extinguishing unit is arranged in an outdoor or open environment.
25. Aspect according to any one of the preceding aspects and/or the appended claims, wherein, during use, the fire extinguishing unit is not arranged within a building or technical compartment or in a fire extinguishing room.
26. Aspect according to any one of aspects 1 to 24 and/or the appended claims, wherein in use, the fire extinguishing unit is arranged within a building or technical compartment or in a fire extinguishing room.
FIRE EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM
[0020]
27. Fire extinguishing system comprising:
- a fire extinguishing unit in accordance with any of the preceding and/or following aspects and/or any of the claims relating to a fire extinguishing unit,
- at least one fluid supply terminal, in particular a plurality of fluid supply terminals, configured to dispense fluid if necessary, e.g. in the event of a fire, said at least one fluid supply terminal being arranged downstream of the pumping member,
28. Aspect according to aspect 27 or to a claim relating to a fire extinguishing system, wherein the fire extinguishing system comprises a reservoir arranged upstream of the pumping member.
INSTALLATION PROCESS
[0021]
29. Process for installing a fire extinguishing unit comprising at least the following steps:
- predisposing a fire extinguishing unit in accordance with any of the above and/or any of the following aspects and/or any of the claims relating to a fire extinguishing unit,
- installing the fire extinguishing unit by lowering it down at the installation place.
30. Aspect according to aspect 29, in which:
- predisposing a fire extinguishing unit includes: predisposing a fire extinguishing unit comprising a support structure, e.g. a plinth, and a pumping member associated with the support structure,
- the process comprises the step of moving the pumping member in relation to the supporting structure from a first pre-installation position, i.e. prior to the installation of the fire extinguishing unit, to a second installation position, the first pre-installation position and the second installation position being distinguished by the spatial orientation of the prevalent longitudinal direction of the pumping member.
31. Aspect according to aspect 30, in which the first pre-installation position and the second installation position are angularly offset.
32. Aspect according to aspect 29 or 30 or 31, in which:
- predisposing a fire extinguishing unit comprises: predisposing a fire extinguishing unit comprising a supporting structure, e.g. a bedplate, and a pumping member associated with the supporting structure and extending along a prevalent longitudinal direction, the pumping member being designed and intended to be installed with the prevalent longitudinal direction extending vertically, preferably the pumping member being a vertical-axis pump (e.g. Vertical Turbine Pump or VTP type),
- the process includes the step of moving the pumping member in relation to the supporting structure from a first pre-installation position, i.e. prior to the installation of the fire extinguishing unit, to a second installation position by arranging the pumping member vertically so that its prevalent longitudinal direction is substantially vertical.
33. Aspect according to aspect 32, wherein moving the pumping member comprises the step of rotating the pumping member between the first pre-installation position and the second installation position.
34. Aspect according to any one of aspects 30 to 33, wherein moving the pumping member comprises the step of rotating the pumping member 90° between the first pre-installation position and the second installation position.
35. Aspect according to any one of aspects 30 to 34, in which the first pre-installation position and the second installation position are angularly offset by approximately 90°.
36. Aspect according to aspect 33 or 34 or 35, in which in the rotation step between the first pre-installation position and the second installation position the pumping member describes an angular excursion, preferably of about 90°.
37. Aspect according to any one of aspects from 30 to 36, wherein moving the pumping member comprises moving the pumping member from the first pre-installation position, wherein the prevalent longitudinal direction of the pumping member is substantially horizontal, to the second installation position, wherein the prevalent longitudinal direction of the pumping member is substantially vertical.
38. Aspect according to any one of aspects 30 to 37, wherein the process comprises, prior to moving the pumping member relative to the support structure, the step of unlocking the movement of the pumping member.
39. Aspect according to aspect 38, in which the step of unlocking the pumping member movement includes moving, in particular pulling out, a locking element.
40. Aspect according to aspect 38 or 39, wherein the step of unlocking the pumping member movement comprises pulling out a locking element from a positioning organ.
41. Aspect according to any one of aspects from 30 to 40, wherein the movement of the pumping member comprises the step of rotating the pumping member integral with a rotating element, in particular a plate, relative to the support structure.
42. Aspect according to any one of aspects from 29 to 41, wherein the process comprises transporting the fire extinguishing unit with the pumping member coupled to a support structure, in particular a plinth, of the fire extinguishing unit.
43. Aspect according to aspect 42, in which the transport step precedes the installation step.
44. Aspect according to aspect 42 or 43, in which in the transport step the pumping member has a substantially horizontal spatial orientation.
45. Aspect according to aspect 42 or 43 or 44, wherein in the transport step the pumping member assumes a spatial orientation according to which the axis of the fluid inlet section and the axis of the fluid delivery section lie on a horizontal plane.
46. Aspect according to any one of aspects 42 to 45, the transport step being carried out before installing the fire extinguishing unit.
47. Aspect according to any one of aspects 42 to 46, the transport step involving taking the fire extinguishing unit to the place of installation.
48. Aspect according to any one of aspects 42 to 47, in which, during transport, the pumping member is in the first pre-installation position.
49. Aspect according to any one of aspects 29 to 48, wherein the process comprises transporting the pumping unit already coupled to the remaining part of the fire-fighting unit.
50. Aspect according to any one of aspects 29 to 48, wherein the process does not involve transporting the pumping member separately from the rest of the fire extinguishing unit.
51. Aspect according to any of the previous aspects, in which the movement of the pumping member also involves moving the motor.
52. Aspect according to any of the above aspects, in which the movement of the pumping member also involves moving a transmission coupling placed between the motor and the pumping member.
53. Aspect according to any of the previous aspects, in which the support structure includes a bedplate defining a handling space.
54. Aspect according to 53, in which the bedplate includes flanks, the handling space being delimited by said flanks.
55. Aspect according to aspect 53 or 54, wherein the step of moving the pumping member with respect to the plinth at the handling space, preferably for at least a section (initial section) of an angular excursion described by the pumping member.
OTHER ASPECTS
[0022]
56. Aspect according to any of the above aspects, in which the axis of the fluid inlet section and the axis of the fluid delivery section are perpendicular to each other.
57. Aspect according to any of the previous aspects, in which the axis of the fluid inlet section and the axis of the fluid delivery section intersect, thus lying on the same plane.
58. Aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, in which the axis of the fluid inlet section and the axis of the fluid delivery section lie on the same plane in any spatial orientation or position of the pumping member.
59. Aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, in which the box body of the fire extinguishing unit is not a separate structure or building from the fire extinguishing unit.
60. Aspect according to any of the above aspects, where the fire extinguishing unit box body is not a masonry structure or building.
61. Aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, wherein the fire extinguishing unit is configured to increase and maintain the pressure of the fluid, particularly water, within a fire extinguishing installation or system with which the fire extinguishing unit is associated or capable of being associated, e.g. the fire extinguishing installation or system being of a residential or commercial or public building or a hotel or a hospital or a shopping centre or an industrial plant.
62. Aspect according to any of the above aspects, where the fire extinguishing unit is outdoor and/or for professional or industrial applications.
63. Aspect according to any of the previous aspects, in which the fire extinguishing unit is configured for professional or industrial applications in automatic sprinkler and/or hydrant systems, in particular according to UNI EN 12845 and/or UNI 10779.
64. Aspect according to any of the previous aspects, in which the box body has a substantially parallelepiped shape.
65. Aspect according to any of the above aspects, where the fire extinguishing unit includes a distribution board.
66. Aspect according to any of the previous aspects, in which the distribution board has a control panel and additional electrical components are arranged separately from the control panel.
67. Aspect according to any of the previous aspects, in which the additional electrical components are housed within the box body.
68. Aspect according to any of the previous aspects, in which the control panel is accessible from outside the box body, preferably without the need for handling a door.
69. Aspect according to any of the preceding aspects, in which the connection member has a tubular conformation and is configured to accommodate the transmission coupling of the pumping member and allow the passage of fluid.
Conventions and Definitions
[0023] Note that in the following detailed description corresponding parts/components/elements are indicated with the same numerical references. The figures may illustrate the subject matter of the invention by means of non-scaled representations; therefore, parts/components/elements illustrated in the accompanying figures and relating to the subject matter of the invention may relate only to schematic representations. The use of "/" herein means "and/or" unless expressly indicated otherwise.
[0024] In the context of the present discussion, the use of terms such as "above", "superiorly", "over", "below", "inferiorly", "sideways", "laterally", "internal", "internally", "external", "externally", "horizontal", "horizontally", "vertical", "vertically", "frontal", "frontally", "rear", "rearwards", "right", "left", similar terms and variations thereof refer, unless otherwise specifically indicated, to at least one spatial orientation that the object of the invention may assume under conditions of use.
[0025] Unless otherwise specifically indicated, the terms "condition" or "configuration" may be used interchangeably in the context of this discussion. The expression "said at least one" is interchangeable with "each". The expression "each" and the like do not necessarily imply that there is more than one plurality of elements to which it refers; e.g. "each element" may refer to a single element or to a plurality of elements, depending on the context in which it is used and the embodiment to which it refers.
[0026] Unless specifically stated otherwise, expressions such as "upstream", "downstream" and similar or derived expressions refer to the arrangement of parts/components/elements with respect to the direction of fluid flow, e.g. along a fluid line or circuit or a certain line or branch of the circuit in which such parts/components/elements are located.
[0027] In the context of the present discussion, one or more of the following definitions/conventions are applicable, where appropriate and except where otherwise indicated and/or unless the context excludes it:
- "Fire extinguishing unit" means any device configured and/or designed to increase and maintain fluid pressure, in particular water pressure, within a fire extinguishing plant with which the fire extinguishing unit is associated or may be associated. For example, the fire extinguishing plant may be of a residential or commercial or public building or a hotel or a hospital or a shopping centre or an industrial plant. Preferably, the fire extinguishing unit is outdoor and/or for professional or industrial applications.
- the fire extinguishing unit is configured for professional or industrial applications in automatic sprinkler and/or hydrant systems, in particular according to UNI EN 12845 and/or UNI 10779,
- "pumping member" (or also simply "pump") of a fire extinguishing unit means the main pumping member of the fire extinguishing unit. The fire extinguishing unit may also comprise an auxiliary pump, or pilot pump, which is indeed a pump different from the main pump; such auxiliary pump or pilot pump is usually configured to keep the system under pressure in the event of small fluid losses (if the fluid loss exceeds a certain threshold, the main pump intervenes). Typically, as in the case of the present invention, the main pump is arranged between a reservoir of a fire extinguishing system and one or more fluid supply terminals of the fire extinguishing system,
- box body that is "built-in" in the fire extinguishing unit means a box body which is an integral part of the fire extinguishing unit and defines its size. In essence, according to the present invention, the box body of the fire extinguishing unit is not a structure (such as a technical compartment or fire extinguishing room) or a building separate from the fire extinguishing unit.
[0028] The aforesaid conventions and definitions may be used, where necessary, to interpret the claims. If necessary, one or more of said conventions and definitions may be included in one or more of the following claims and/or in one or more of the preceding aspects, in particular when said claims and/or aspects use one or more expressions covered by one or more conventions or definitions.
Brief description of the drawings
[0029] In order to better understand the invention and appreciate its advantages, some of its embodiments are described below, by way of example and not limitation, with reference to the attached figures, in which:
Figures 1 to 5B show a first embodiment of a fire extinguishing unit according to a first embodiment of the invention. More in detail:
- Figure 1 shows a perspective front view of a fire extinguishing unit,
- Figure 2 shows the front view of the fire extinguishing unit in figure 1, with the box body dashed,
- Figure 3 shows the rear view of the fire extinguishing unit in figure 1, with all doors open,
- Figure 4 shows the rear view of the fire extinguishing unit in figure 3, with the box body dashed,
- Figure 5A shows some components of the fire extinguishing unit of Figures 1-4 (from which the box body has been removed to show said components in detail), including the plinth and the motor and the pumping member engaged therein, and illustrates the substantially horizontal orientation of the pumping member, in which the axis of the fluid inlet section of the pumping member and the axis of the fluid delivery section of the pumping member lie on the same horizontal plane;
- Figure 5B shows a detail of Figure 5A, where arrows indicating the directions of fluid flow through the pumping member are shown;
Figures 6 to 9 show a second embodiment of a fire extinguishing unit in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention, comprising an assembly having a pumping member and a control head; in these figures, the box body has been dashed to illustrate the components housed therein. These figures illustrate successive spatial orientations of the assembly which are part of an installation process of the installation unit. More in detail:
- Figure 6 shows a perspective front view of a fire extinguishing unit, where the assembly is arranged in accordance with a substantially horizontal spatial orientation (pre-installation position),
- Figure 7 shows the fire extinguishing unit in figure 6, which has been rotated clockwise,
- Figure 8 shows a perspective front view of the fire extinguishing unit of figure 1, where the locking element is pulled out to allow rotation of the above assembly with respect to the spatial orientation of figure 7,
- Figure 9 shows a perspective front view of the fire extinguishing unit of figure 8, where the above-mentioned assembly has been further rotated with respect to the spatial orientation of figure 8 and assumes a substantially vertical orientation (installation position). Figure 9 also shows a fire extinguishing system having a fluid (water) reservoir arranged at a lower elevation with respect to the pumping member; an arrow is also shown showing the salient direction of fluid advancement along the connection member;
Figures 10 to 13 show the movement of the above-mentioned assembly, and of a rotating element guiding the assembly in rotation, with respect to the supporting structure of the fire extinguishing unit from the pre-installation spatial orientation to the installation spatial orientation assumed at the end of the installation process. More in detail:
- Figure 10 shows the pre-installation spatial orientation of the assembly (i.e. the pumping member), in which the assembly is locked by a locking element and therefore cannot be moved,
- Figure 11 shows a spatial orientation of the assembly (hence the pumping member) that is intermediate between the spatial orientation of figure 10 and the spatial orientation of figure 13,
- Figure 12 shows a different view of the components of the fire extinguishing unit shown in figure 11,
- Figure 13 shows the spatial orientation of the installation of the components of the fire extinguishing unit, where the assembly (thus also the pumping member) takes on a substantially vertical configuration;
Figure 14 shows a comparison between a fire extinguishing unit in accordance with the prior art, which is positioned inside a fire extinguishing room (on the left in figure 14) and the fire extinguishing unit in accordance with the first embodiment of the invention (on the right in figure 14) installed in an outdoor or open environment; it is evident that the latter has reduced dimensions and is very compact. A reservoir, which may be a water reservoir, is shown in figure 14,
Figure 15 shows a schematic of a fire extinguishing system in accordance with the invention comprising: a fire extinguishing unit in accordance with the invention, a reservoir and a plurality of fluid supply terminals.
Detailed description of forms of the invention
Fire extinguishing units
[0030] A fire extinguishing unit according to the invention is referred to as a whole in the figures by the numerical reference 1.
[0031] As will be seen in more detail below, the fire extinguishing unit 1 may be part of a fire extinguishing system 100 comprising a fluid reservoir 101 (water) and one or more fluid supply terminals 102, which are suitable for dispensing water in case of need (e.g. in case of fire). Within such a system 100, the fire extinguishing unit 1 is arranged between the fluid reservoir 101 and the fluid supply terminals 102, to which the fire extinguishing unit 1 is connected by one or more appropriate hydraulic circuits; in this regard, see Figure 15, wherein arrows indicating fluid feed directions in the fire extinguishing system 100 are also illustrated.
[0032] The fire extinguishing unit 1 is designed for automatic operation, i.e. it detects a pressure drop and starts operating below a certain pressure threshold. In addition, it allows manual control of the functional components and monitoring of the operating parameters, then signalling in the event of faults or alarms by means of acoustic and visual signals from the control interface and control devices.
[0033] It should be noted that fire extinguishing unit 1 is preferably for outdoor and/or professional or industrial applications. It should also be noted that fire extinguishing unit 1 is configured for professional or industrial applications in automatic sprinkler and/or hydrant systems, in particular according to UNI EN 12845 and/or UNI 10779.
[0034] The fire extinguishing unit 1 is configured to increase and maintain the pressure of fluid, particularly water, within a fire extinguishing facility or system 100 with which the fire extinguishing unit 1 is associated or may be associated. By way of example and not limitation, it is indicated that the fire suppression system or facility 100 may be of a residential or commercial or public building or a hotel or a hospital or a shopping centre or an industrial facility.
[0035] The fire extinguishing unit 1 comprises a pumping member 2 configured to pump fluid. The pumping member 2 comprises a pump body 3 on which are defined a fluid inlet section 3a (or fluid suction section) configured to allow fluid inlet and a fluid delivery section 3b configured to allow exit of fluid destined to be used in a fire extinguishing plant, for example to be dispensed by said fluid supply terminals 102. The fluid inlet section 3a and the fluid delivery section 3b have a respective axis A3a, A3b; in the case of circularly shaped sections, the axis A3a of the fluid inlet section 3a and the axis A3b of the fluid delivery section 3b may coincide with the respective axis (centre) of the circular section. Note how axes A3a and A3b are perpendicular to each other and intersect, so they lie on the same plane.
[0036] The fire extinguishing unit 1 further comprises a motor 4 configured to operate on the pumping member 3. In more detail, the engine 4 may be connected to the pumping member 3 by a shaft or transmission coupling and is configured to drive the pumping member 3 in rotation. An internal combustion engine 4 (diesel engine) is illustrated in the attached figures; it is understood that different types of engines 4 (e.g., an electric motor) may be provided.
[0037] The fire extinguishing unit 1 or the pumping member 3 may further comprise a connection member 5 within which the transmission coupling transmitting rotary motion from the motor to a rotating unit (impeller) of the pumping member 3 may be housed (see Figures 6 to 13 relating to the second embodiment). The connection member 5 may have a tubular shape so as to accommodate the transmission coupling and allow the passage of fluid.
[0038] The fire extinguishing unit 1 according to the invention comprises a box body 6 defining a small overall size of the fire extinguishing unit, so that it is compact. Thanks to the box body 6 having reduced dimensions, the fire extinguishing unit 1 is compact and also safe, since the box body 6, which is built-in in the fire extinguishing unit 1, reduces under operating conditions the risks associated with accessibility to high-temperature components and/or organs, for example rotating organs, housed inside the box body 6. The box body 6 allows the fire extinguishing unit 1 to be installed in an external or open environment while protecting it, for example, from atmospheric agents. By way of non-limiting example, the box body 6 can have an height H6 comprised between 1 m and 2 m, a width W6 comprised between 1 m and 1,7 m and a length L6 comprised between 2,5 m and 5 m (see figure 3).
[0039] The box body 6 houses the motor 4 and at least in part the pumping member 3. Two embodiments of the invention are described herein; according to the first embodiment the box body 6 houses both the motor 4 and the entire pumping member 2, while according to the second embodiment the box body 6 houses the motor 4 and part of the pumping member 2 (in particular at least the pump body 3), while the connection member 5 and part of the pumping member 2 (i.e. the section, preferably multi-stage, which is configured to pump fluid, and the connection member) is arranged outside the box body 6, in particular inferiorly with respect thereto. In the attached figures, the box body is a cabinet 6.
[0040] The fire extinguishing unit 1 also includes other components known for a fire extinguishing unit, such as: pressure gauges, valves, etc.. Such components are preferably housed within the box body 6.
[0041] Thus, note how the box body 6 is configured to accommodate multiple components in a small space, which is optimised in the design phase. To allow this, preferably, the box body 6 is substantially 'adhered' (i.e. arranged in close proximity, very close) to the components it encloses and the fire extinguishing unit 1 is therefore compact.
[0042] The box body 6 comprises one or more doors 7 suitable for allowing access and maintenance to the components housed therein. Preferably, at least one door 7 arranged on a first flank of the box body 6 and at least one door 7 arranged on a second flank of the box body 6 opposite to the first flank may be provided. The attached figures show embodiments in which a pair of doors 7 is provided on the first flank and a pair of doors 7 on the second flank. The doors 7 are positioned at organs and/or components requiring maintenance, so as to advantageously allow access to such organs and/or components from outside the box body 6.
[0043] Before describing the first and second embodiments, it should be noted that in both embodiments, the pumping member 2 is configured to assume, in at least one condition, a spatial orientation in accordance with which the axis A3a of the fluid inlet section 3a and the axis A3b of the fluid delivery section 3b lie on a horizontal plane, in particular on the same horizontal plane; in this regard, see Figure 5B with respect to the first embodiment and Figures 6, 7 and 10 with respect to the second embodiment.
[0044] The fire extinguishing unit 1 further comprises a support structure 8 configured to support the various components of the fire extinguishing unit 1. In the embodiments illustrated in the appended Figures, the support structure comprises a plinth 8 to which the pumping member 2 is fixed (first embodiment) or to which the pumping member 2 is engaged so as to be movable to allow installation of the fire extinguishing unit 1 (second embodiment). As illustrated in the attached figures, the box body 6 is arranged superiorly to the plinth 8.
[0045] The fire extinguishing unit 1 additionally comprises a distribution board or control panel 9. The fire extinguishing unit 1 allows the control part 9 (control panel) to be separated from the electrical components, so that the control part 9 is accessible from outside. Basically, the distribution board with the electrical components is located behind a door 7 of the box body 6, while the control part 9 comprising control devices (selector switch, operator panel, pushbuttons, etc.) are accessible directly from the outside (see figure 3, where the control devices are provided on a single control panel 9). Preferably, the control part 9, and in particular its control devices, are provided with the appropriate IP degree of protection both inside and outside the box body. Preferably, the overall IP degree of protection of the fire extinguishing unit 1 is not less than IP54.
[0046] This allows the reduction of overall dimensions as the space inside the box 6 body is used to locate the distribution board and separate the control part from the electrical components.
[0047] The fire extinguishing unit may further comprise a fuel reservoir 10 for containing fuel for engine 4, a radiator 11 for engine 4, a container 12 for the exhaust gases of engine 4 and one or more batteries 13. These components are applicable in the case of an internal combustion engine 4 such as a diesel engine; in the case of an electric motor, the components vary, in a way that is known in itself.
First embodiment (horizontal pump with axial suction)
[0048] The fire extinguishing unit in accordance with the first embodiment is shown in Figures 1 to 5B and Figure 14.
[0049] In the first embodiment, the pumping member 2 is fixed in the spatial orientation according to which the axis A3a of the fluid inlet section 3a and the axis A3b of the fluid delivery section 3b lie on the same horizontal plane (see figure 5B). Such an arrangement of the pumping member 2 makes it possible to optimise the management of the space inside the box body 6, thus allowing the reduction of the dimensions or miniaturisation of the box body 6 and therefore of the fire extinguishing unit 1. In more detail, arranging the pumping member 2 horizontally allows the hydraulic delivery circuits of the fire extinguishing unit 1 to be arranged differently; in particular, the vertical size related to the sum of the components making up the delivery hydraulics (pipes, valves, etc.) is reduced. Preferably, the pumping member 2 describes a 90° angle; in other words, the fluid passing inside the pump body 3 describes a path defining a 90° angle between the fluid inlet section 3a and the fluid delivery section 3b.
[0050] As illustrated in Figures 1 to 4, in the first embodiment, the box body 6 fully accommodates both motor 4 and pumping member 2.
[0051] Downstream of the fluid delivery section 3b of the pumping member 2, a duct 3' is provided which describes an angle of 90°; this arrangement also contributes to the reduction of the overall size of the fire extinguishing unit 1. Clearly, different fluid paths may be provided downstream of the fluid delivery section 3b, depending on the design and/or installation requirements and/or on the space available.
[0052] As shown in the attached figures 1 to 5B, the pumping member is preferably a centrifugal pump 2 (axial suction pump or end suction pump).
[0053] In terms of power, the fire extinguishing unit 1 can have a power output of between 4.2 and 247 kW when a diesel engine 4 is provided and between 4 and 250 kW when an electric engine is provided.
Second embodiment (vertical submersible pump)
[0054] Fire extinguishing unit 1 in accordance with the second embodiment is shown in Figures 6 to 13.
[0055] The pumping member 2 develops along a main direction and comprises the pump body 3, the connection member 5 and a multi-stage section 14 comprising a plurality of pump stages (multi-stage pumping member). The connection member 5 has an elongated shape and houses the transmission coupling which allows the transmission of rotary motion between the motor 4 and the impeller of the pumping member 2. As illustrated in figure 12, the connection member 5 is engaged inferiorly to the pump body 3. In use, the pump body 3 is arranged at an upper portion of the pumping member 2 (together with the control head 18, described below), the multi-stage section 14 constitutes the lower portion of the pumping member 2, and the connection member 5, as well as the transmission coupling housed within it, are arranged at an intermediate portion between the upper portion and the lower portion of the pumping member 2 (see figure 9). Such a pumping member is essentially a vertical axis pump 2; as illustrated in Figures 6 to 13, the pumping member 2 is preferably of the Vertical Turbine Pump (VTP) type.
[0056] The pumping member 2 in accordance with the second embodiment is configured to be moved between a first spatial orientation in accordance with which the axis A3a of the fluid inlet section 3a and the axis A3b of the fluid delivery section 3b lie on a horizontal plane, in particular on the same horizontal plane (Figures 7 and 10), and a second spatial orientation according to which the axis A3a of the fluid inlet section 3a and the axis A3b of the fluid delivery section 3b lie on a vertical plane, in particular on the same vertical plane (Figures 9 and 13). In more detail, note that the pumping member 2 assumes the first spatial orientation at a stage prior to the installation of the fire extinguishing unit 1 and assumes the second spatial orientation under conditions of use of the fire extinguishing unit 1, i.e. after the installation of the fire extinguishing unit 1. In other words, in the first spatial orientation the pumping member 2 assumes a pre-installation position in accordance with which it develops substantially horizontally and in the second spatial orientation the pumping member 2 assumes an installation position in accordance with which it develops substantially vertically. In both the first and the second spatial orientation the axis A3a of the fluid inlet section 3a and the axis A3b of the fluid discharge section 3b lie on the same plane, with the difference that in the first spatial orientation the storage plane of the axes A3a, A3b is a horizontal plane and in the second spatial orientation the storage plane of the axes A3a, A3b is a vertical plane. As detailed below, the movement of the pumping member 2 between said first and second spatial orientations is a rotary movement.
[0057] The box body 6 preferably provides a housing 6a which, at a stage prior to the installation of the fire extinguishing unit 1, is passed through by the connection member 5 (see Figures 6 and 7), thereby allowing the pumping member 2 to assume the first spatial orientation in which it develops horizontally. The housing may be in the form of an opening 6a passing through with respect to a thickness of the box body 6; as illustrated in the attached Figures 6 and 7, the through opening 6a may have a "U" (or other similar) shape with the concavity of the "U" facing downwards.
[0058] The fire extinguishing unit 1 in accordance with the second embodiment further comprises a rotation element 15 engaged to the support structure 8 and configured to result in a rotation of the pumping member 2 relative to the support structure 8. In more detail, the rotation element 15 is hinged to the support structure 8; in this regard, see in particular Figures 10-13. To the rotation element 15 the pumping member 2 is integrally engaged, so that it can rotate with respect to the support structure 8. In the attached figures, the rotation element comprises a plate 15 hinged to the plinth 8 by a pair of hinges 15a (figure 11) and provided with a through opening 15b, which may be in the form of a circular through hole (figure 12). The pump body 3 and the multi-stage section are arranged in opposition to the plate 15. As illustrated in figure 12, at or near the through-hole 15b, the connection member 5 is connected to the pump body 3 and the through-hole 15b is traversed by the connection member 5 and thus by the transmission coupling arranged within it.
[0059] The support structure 8 also defines a handling space or free space 8a configured to allow movement of the pumping member 2 so that it moves from the pre-installation spatial orientation to the installation spatial orientation. As illustrated in the figures, the support structure 8 may have two sidewalls 8b, 8c and the handling or free space 8a may be defined between the two sidewalls 8b, 8c (internal free or handling space 8a); these sidewalls 8b, 8c run parallel to the length L6 of the box chorus 6 (see figure 8). The internal free or handling space 8a may have a U-shape (or similar); in this respect, see in particular figures 10 to 13.
[0060] The fire extinguishing unit 1 preferably comprises a locking element 16 configured to lock or unlock the movement of the pumping member 2 between the first spatial orientation and the second spatial orientation. Figures 6, 7 and 10 show the locking element 16 in the locking configuration in which it locks the movement of the pumping member 2, while figure 8 shows the locking element 16 in the unlocking configuration that allows the movement of the pumping member 2. The locking element 16 can be switched from the locking configuration to the unlocking configuration, and vice versa, by means of pulling it out. In more detail, the fire extinguishing unit 1 may provide a positioning organ 17 which is configured to hold the locking element 16 in the locking configuration, and from which the locking element 16 may be pulled out to switch from the locking configuration to the unlocking configuration. Subsequent to unlocking and passage of the connection member through the handling space or free handling space 8a (or free handling space), the locking element may again be engaged to the positioning organ 17 (see Figures 11-13). The positioning organ 17 may be provided with through-holes 17a to allow disengagement of the locking element 16 (by pulling out the locking element 16 from the through-holes 17a) and engagement of the locking element 16 (by inserting the locking element 16 into the through-holes 17a). For this purpose, the positioning organ 17 may provide at least two through holes 17a. The attached figures show a positioning organ 17 engaged to the support structure 8 above the handling space or free space 8a. In more detail, the positioning organ 17 may be substantially "U" shaped with the concavity of the "U" facing downwards, thus towards the handling space or free space 8a; note how the positioning organ 17 may have other similar shapes. The substantially "U"-shaped positioning organ may have two side pieces 17b on each of which there is a through hole 17a and a transverse piece 17c connecting the side pieces 17b and transverse to them. The through-holes 17a of the side sections 17b are preferably aligned with each other, so as to allow easy removal and insertion of the locking element 16. As illustrated in the appended Figures 6 to 13, the locking element may be a locking pin or rod 16 having a circular cross-section.
[0061] It should be noted that in the second embodiment, the fire extinguishing unit 1 may comprise one or more supports 4' on which the motor 4 rests. The positioning organ 17 may present substantially a similar or corresponding structure or the same conformation (except for the through holes 17a) as the one or more supports 4' for the motor 4. In the second embodiment illustrated, both the supports 4' and the positioning organ 17 present substantially a bridge structure, having a substantially "U" conformation with the concavity of the "U" facing downwards. Such a bridge structure of the supports 4' may be of the type previously described with reference to the positioning organ 17, i.e. it may be provided with two lateral sections and a transverse section connecting the transverse sections. As illustrated in figure 7, the fire extinguishing unit 1 preferably provides two supports 4', on which the feet of the engine 4 rest.
[0062] At the upper portion of the pumping member 2, the fire extinguishing unit 1 further provides a control head 18 configured to control the rotation of the impellers which are arranged in the multi-stage section 14, which acts as an interface portion to the motor 4. The control head 18 is engaged to the pump body 3 and is substantially an upper portion of the pumping member 2. The control head 18 comprises a transmission or remand 19 which allows it to receive rotary motion from the motor 4 along a horizontal axis and transmit rotary motion to the transmission coupling or shaft with a vertical axis; note how the axis is vertical in the installation position of the pumping member 2. The handling described for the pumping member 2 also applies to the control head 18 since it is integral with the pumping member 2; in essence, the pumping member 2 and the control head 18 can be viewed as an assembly, the components of which are integral with each other during the handling illustrated in the attached figures. Therefore, the movement of the pumping member 2 between the pre-installation spatial orientation and the post-installation spatial orientation allows the transmission or remittance 19 to be faced and/or engaged to the motor 4, so as to allow the connection enabling the transmission of rotary motion. The connection between the transmission or transmission gear 19 and the motor 4 is preferably made by means of an interposed coupling.
[0063] In terms of power, the fire extinguishing unit 1 can have a power output of between 4.2 and 66 kW when a diesel engine 4 is provided, and between 4 and 55 kW when an electric motor is provided.
[0064] The technical features disclosed herein in relation to functions of the fire extinguishing unit 1 or portions/components/elements thereof are applicable in the context of corresponding uses of the fire extinguishing unit 1 or steps in the process described below, and may therefore be used to specify such uses and process in the appended claims.
Use of the fire extinguishing unit
[0065] The invention further relates to a use of the previously described fire extinguishing unit 1. The use is intended to increase and maintain the pressure of fluid, in particular water, within a fire extinguishing plant with which the fire extinguishing unit 1 is associated.
[0066] During use, the fire extinguishing unit 1 is preferably arranged in an outdoor or open environment, i.e. it is not arranged inside a building or a technical compartment PA. In essence, preferably, during use the fire extinguishing unit 1 is not arranged inside a building or a technical compartment PA.
[0067] Alternatively, possible applications of fire extinguishing unit 1 can be envisaged where it is arranged in an enclosed space, such as a technical compartment.
Fire extinguishing system
[0068] The invention also relates to a fire extinguishing system 100 comprising:
- a fire extinguishing unit 1 of the type described above,
- at least one fluid supply terminal 102, in particular a plurality of fluid supply terminals 102.
[0069] Each fluid dispensing terminal 102 is configured to dispense fluid when required, e.g. in the event of a fire, and is arranged downstream of pumping member 2 and fire extinguishing unit 1 (see Figure 15).
[0070] The system 100 may be in accordance with a first embodiment (when it includes the fire extinguishing unit in accordance with the first embodiment described above) and a second embodiment (when it includes the fire extinguishing unit in accordance with the second embodiment described above).
[0071] The fire extinguishing system 100 may further comprise a reservoir 101 arranged upstream of the pumping member 2. The reservoir may be arranged at an elevation substantially equal to or comparable to the elevation at which the pumping member 2 is arranged (for example in the first embodiment; see figure 14 wherein a reservoir 101 is illustrated) or at an elevation below the elevation at which the pumping member 2 is arranged (second embodiment, see figure 9) or at an elevation above the elevation at which the pumping member 2 is arranged. As illustrated in figure 9, in the second embodiment of the system 100, the reservoir 101 is arranged at an elevation below the elevation at which the pumping member 2 is arranged (the reservoir 101 is substantially arranged below the fire extinguishing unit 1) and the multi-stage section of the pumping member is at least partially immersed in the fluid contained in the reservoir 101, so as to be able to draw fluid from the reservoir 101 and have it flow back up along the tubularly shaped connection member 5.
[0072] The pumping member 2 is configured to pump fluid to the one or more fluid supply terminals 102, in particular from the reservoir 101 to the one or more fluid supply terminals 102.
[0073] The fire extinguishing unit 1 is arranged between the fluid reservoir 101 and the fluid supply terminals 102.
[0074] As is known per se, the fire extinguishing system 100 comprises one or more hydraulic circuits that enable the fire extinguishing unit 1 to be connected to one or more terminals.
[0075] As is known per se, the fire extinguishing System 100 also includes additional components, such as pressure or temperature sensors, which are necessary for the proper functioning of the fire extinguishing System 100.
[0076] The fire protection plant or system 100 can be of a residential or commercial or public building or a hotel or a hospital or a shopping centre or an industrial facility.
Process for installing a fire extinguishing unit
[0077] The present invention also relates to a process for installing a fire extinguishing unit 1. The installation process involves:
- predisposing a fire extinguishing unit 1 of the type described above,
- installing the fire extinguishing unit 1 by lowering it from above to an installation site.
[0078] The process also involves transporting the fire extinguishing unit 1. The transport takes place prior to the installation step and enables the fire extinguishing unit 1 to be transported from a place of departure to a place of installation, i.e. to a place where the installation operation of the fire extinguishing unit 1 will take place. The fire extinguishing unit 1 is transported in a configuration according to which the pumping member 2 is already coupled to the support structure 8. In essence, the transport of the pumping member 2 and the remaining part of the fire extinguishing unit 1 does not take place separately, but rather is carried out in a single operation.
[0079] It should be noted that in the transport step, the pumping member 2 assumes a spatial orientation in accordance with which the axis A3a of the fluid inlet section 3a and the axis A3b of the fluid delivery section 3b lie on a horizontal plane, in particular on the same horizontal plane (horizontal spatial orientation of the pumping member). In the first embodiment, this spatial orientation of the pumping member 2 remains even under operating conditions, while in the second embodiment, the movement of the pumping member 2 from the horizontal spatial orientation (see Figures 6 and 7) to the vertical spatial orientation (see Figure 9) takes place.
First embodiment
[0080] In the first embodiment, there is no need to move the pumping member 2 between a pre-installation position and an installation position as the pump is already fixed to the support structure 8 in the horizontal spatial orientation in which it will be used. Therefore, in the first embodiment, the pumping member 2 is transported in the same conformation in which it will be used and there is no need to move the pumping member 2, an operation which is necessary for the second embodiment of the invention, as described below.
Second embodiment
[0081] In contrast to the first embodiment, in the second embodiment, the process comprises the movement of the pumping member 2 between said positions. For the second embodiment form, the description of the movement of the pumping member 2 follows; before describing the movement of the pumping member 2, it is noted that also in the second embodiment form the pumping member 2 is transported in accordance with the spatial orientation according to which the axis A3a of the fluid inlet section 3a and the axis A3b of the fluid delivery section 3b lie on a horizontal plane, in particular on the same horizontal plane (see Figures 6 and 7).
[0082] The second embodiment of the process involves moving the pumping member 2 relative to the support structure 8 from a first pre-installation position, i.e. prior to the installation of the fire extinguishing unit 1, to a second installation position. The first pre-installation position and the second installation position are distinguished by the spatial orientation of the prevalent longitudinal direction of the pumping member 2. In more detail, in the first pre-installation position such spatial orientation of the prevalent longitudinal direction of the pumping member 2 is horizontal (see Figures 6, 7 and 10) and in the second installation position such orientation is vertical (see Figures 9 and 13). Therefore, the handling of the pumping member 2 involves arranging the pumping member 2 vertically so that its prevalent longitudinal direction is substantially vertical in the installation position. In particular, the first pre-installation position and the second installation position are angularly offset from each other, preferably by an angle of 90°. The transition from the first position to the second position takes place by means of rotation of the pumping member 2. As illustrated in the attached figures, such rotation of the pumping member 2 preferably takes place over an angular range of 90°. Note how the rotation of the pumping member 2 also draws the control head 18 into rotation. Note how Figures 11, 12 and 8 show angular positions intermediate between the first position shown in Figures 6, 7 and 10 and the second position shown in Figures 9 and 13. The rotation of the pumping member 2 with respect to the support structure 8 is preferably achieved by rotation of the rotation element 15 (plate) described above.
[0083] During transport, the movement of the pumping member 2 relative to the support structure 8 is preferably inhibited by the previously described locking element 16. Therefore, before moving the pumping member 2, the process may comprise unlocking the movement of the pumping member 2. Such unlocking step is achieved by moving (pulling out) the locking element 16 relative to the positioning organ 17 described above.
[0084] Providing for transporting the pumping member 2 already built-in in the fire extinguishing unit 1, transporting the complete fire extinguishing unit 1 in a single solution, is particularly advantageous as it streamlines the transport and installation process of the fire extinguishing unit 1, thus simplifies its transport and can reduce transport costs. Indeed, in some solutions of the prior art, the installation process involves transporting and installing the vertical axis pump 2 separately from the remaining part of the fire extinguishing unit 1; the installation process in accordance with the invention greatly simplifies such installation operations.
Further advantages and concluding remarks
[0085] The invention advantageously provides a fire extinguishing unit 1 that is compact and can be installed outdoors due to the provision of the box body 6, while still retaining the possibility of installing it in an enclosed environment.
[0086] As previously mentioned, the fire extinguishing unit 1 according to the invention does not need to be arranged within a structure (such as a technical compartment or fire extinguishing room) or building. In essence, while some fire extinguishing units in accordance with the prior art need to be arranged within a dedicated structure or building or technical compartment PA (see Figure 14 illustrating a technical compartment PA having typical dimensions for housing a fire extinguishing unit in accordance with the prior art), the fire extinguishing unit 1 in accordance with the invention can also be arranged outdoors, reducing the volumes involved (see Figure 14). Nonetheless, the fire extinguishing unit 1 in accordance with the invention is in any case safe since, even if arranged in an open environment, it has the box body 6 which is built-in and which constitutes an enclosure capable of protecting the fire extinguishing unit 1 and any operator, while still maintaining the possibility of carrying out maintenance (due to the provision of one or more doors 7) without having to dismantle the box body 6 itself.
[0087] Furthermore, it should be noted that, the fire extinguishing unit according to the invention results in a reduction of the occupied volume of around 17% (compared to some fire extinguishing units of the prior art). However, considering the application of the standard with respect to technical compartments and the minimum clearance to be kept clear in certain applications, the fire extinguishing unit 1 in accordance with the invention needs about 4 to 5 times less volume (compared to some fire extinguishing units of the prior art) to operate in accordance with the standards; in this regard, see the comparison in Figure 14 between technical compartment PA in accordance with the prior art, on the left, and fire extinguishing unit 1 in accordance with the invention, on the right.
[0088] The installation process according to the invention is also advantageous in that, as indicated above, it allows the installation of the fire extinguishing unit in a single solution.
[0089] The protection conferred by the claims extends to each element, component and/or step of the invention equivalent to the one(s) claimed.
[0090] It is understood that each element, component and/or step of the product/process according to the invention may be replaced with an equivalent element, component and/or step (hereinafter, "equivalent(s)"); such equivalent(s) may already exist on the filing or priority date of this patent text or subsequent conception/development.
- a pumping member (2) configured to pump fluid, the pumping member (2) comprising a pump body (3) on which are defined:
∘ a fluid inlet section (3a) configured to enable fluid to enter, and
∘ a fluid delivery section (3b) configured to enable fluid, destined to a fire extinguishing plant, to exit the fluid pumping member (2),
- a motor (4) configured to operate on the pumping member (2),
- a built-in box body (6), particularly a cabinet, housing the motor (4) and at least partially the pumping member (2), the box body (6) defining an overall size of the fire extinguishing unit (1).
- the box body (6) houses both the motor (4) and the pumping member (2),
- the fluid inlet section (3a) and the fluid delivery section (3b) have a respective axis (A3a, A3b),
- the pumping member (2) is configured to take, under at least one condition, a spatial orientation according to which the axis (A3a) of the fluid inlet section (3a) and the axis (A3b) of the fluid delivery section (3b) lie on a horizontal plane, particularly on a same horizontal plane.
preferably, the pumping member (2) being configured to take the first spatial orientation during a step before the installation of the fire extinguishing unit (1) and being configured to take the second spatial orientation under use conditions of the fire extinguishing unit (1), in other words after the installation of the fire extinguishing unit (1).
- the fire extinguishing unit (1) comprises a support structure (8), for example a bedplate, and a rotation element (15) engaged to the support structure (8),
- the pumping member (2) is engaged to the rotation element (15),
- the rotation element is configured to cause a rotation of the pumping member (2) with respect to the support structure (8).
- the rotation element comprises a plate (15) hinged to the support structure (8),
- the plate (15) has a through opening (15b), for example a through hole,
- the pumping member (2) is of a multi-stage type and comprises a multi-stage section (14) and a connection member (5) placed between the pumping member (3) and the multi-stage section (14),
- the through opening (15b) is crossed by the connection member (5), the pump body (3) and the multi-stage section being placed oppositely with respect to the plate (15).
- a fire extinguishing unit (1) according to anyone of the preceding claims,
- at least one fluid supply terminal (102), particularly a plurality of fluid supply terminals (102), configured to supply fluid when required, for example in case of fire, said at least one fluid supply terminal (102) being placed downstream the pumping member (2),
wherein the pumping member (2) is configured to pump fluid to said at least one fluid supply terminal (102).- predisposing a fire extinguishing unit (1) according to anyone of claims from 1 to 7,
- installing the fire extinguishing unit (1) by lowering it down at the installation place.
wherein during the transportation step, the pumping member (2) takes a spatial orientation according to which the axis (A3a) of the fluid inlet section (3a) and the axis (A3b) of the fluid delivery section (3b) lie on a horizontal plane, particularly on a same horizontal plane.
- predisposing a fire extinguishing unit (1) comprises: predisposing a fire extinguishing unit (1) comprising a support structure (8), for example a bedplate, and a pumping member (3) associated to the support structure (8),
- the process comprises the step of moving the pumping member (2) with respect to the support structure (8) from a first pre-installation position, in other words preceding the installation of the fire extinguishing unit (1), to a second installation position, the first pre-installation position and the second installation position being distinguished by the spatial orientation of the prevalent longitudinal direction of the pumping member (2).
- the pumping member (2) develops along a prevalent longitudinal direction and is devised and destined to be installed with the prevalent longitudinal direction developing vertically,
- moving the pumping member (2) with respect to the support structure from the first pre-installation position to the second installation position comprises vertically placing the pumping member (2) so that its prevalent longitudinal direction is substantially vertical.