TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates to fluid dispersion systems and methods for fighting fire, such as those associated with a vehicle. BACKGROUND ART

Uncontrolled fires, such as wildfires or building fires, can cause significant damage to property and, in some cases, can result in the loss of human life.

Wildfires, in particular, can spread quickly over large areas, making them difficult to control and supress. Known fire suppression methods include the use of land-based vehicles to direct a stream of fluid (e.g. water or fire retardant) at a fire. Aerial vehicles, such as helicopters, planes and UAV's are also used to drop fluid onto a fire. For example, it is known to use helicopters to carry buckets of water, which are then emptied over a fire in order to supress the fire. In some cases, such methods can be inefficient and, for example, large quantities of water or fire retardant can be used in a generally ineffective manner.

The above references to the background art do not constitute an admission that the art forms part of the common general knowledge of a person of ordinary skill in the art. The above references are also not intended to limit the application of the process as disclosed herein.

SUMMARY

In a first aspect there is disclosed a fluid dispersing apparatus for fire suppression. The apparatus comprises a mounting assembly for mounting the apparatus to a vehicle, an array of spray nozzles, and a support structure. The support structure connects the spray nozzles to, and is able to be supported by, the mounting assembly. The apparatus further comprises a fluid supply network able to fluidly connect the spray nozzles to a fluid supply in use. In one embodiment the support structure may comprise a plurality of arms extending from the mounting assembly, each arm comprising one or more spray nozzles disposed at, or proximate to, a distal end thereof.

In one embodiment the plurality of arms may be configured to move between a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration. In the collapsed configuration the arms may define a generally compact arrangement. In the expanded configuration, the distal ends of the arms may be spaced from one another.

In one embodiment the spray nozzles may be substantially aligned along an imaginary plane when in the expanded configuration. The imaginary plane may be generally perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the mounting assembly. Such an arrangement may allow a generally uniform wall of fluid (e.g. mist) to be dispersed by the system.

In one embodiment the arms may be pivotably connected to the mounting assembly.

In one embodiment the apparatus may further comprise a hydraulic system configured to move the plurality of arms between the collapsed and expanded configurations.

In one embodiment, each arm may comprise a base portion and a plurality of finger portions. The base portion may connect the arm to the mounting assembly, and the plurality of finger portions may extend from the base portion. Each finger portion may comprise the one or more spray nozzles at a distal end thereof.

In one embodiment the finger portions may be configured to move between a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration. The expansion of the finger portions may help to extend the overall coverage of the wall of mist.

In one embodiment the finger portions may be configured to move between a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration.

In one embodiment each secondary portion may be pivotably mounted to its respective first portion. In one embodiment the apparatus may further comprise a hydraulic system configured to move the plurality of secondary portions between the collapsed and expanded configurations.

In one embodiment the mounting assembly may comprise a boom.

In one embodiment the boom may have two or more sections that are configured to move relative one another so as to be extendible.

In one embodiment at least two of the two or more sections may be telescopically arranged. The boom may extend to many times its original length, such as 2, 5 or 10 times.

In one embodiment at least two of the two or more sections may be hingedly connected. In this respect, the boom may be foldable. The boom may have two or more sections that can fold up relative to one another so that the boom can be moved from a stored configuration to an in use (extended) configuration. The boom may be both telescopic and foldable. This arrangement may help the system to adapt to changing fire conditions. For example, the boom may be moved, and in turn the position of the nozzles may be changed, as a fire front advances or retreats.

In one embodiment the apparatus may further comprise a hydraulic system configured to move the boom. The hydraulic system may be controlled manually by an operator or automatically by the hydraulic system. The hydraulic system may use programmable computer logic (PCL). Sensors may be used as inputs into the PCL. Sensors may include flow rate meters, temperature and/or wind sensors.

In one embodiment the apparatus may further comprise an air supply system configured to provide an airflow to direct fluid dispersed by the nozzles.

In one embodiment the air supply system may comprise a blower secured to the mounting assembly or vehicle.

In one embodiment the air supply system may comprise a flexible duct in fluid connection with the blower. The flexible duct may extend with respect to the mounting assembly to direct airflow with respect to the support structure. The air supply system may be mounted to the boom. The air supply may comprise a combustion and/or electric motor connected to a fan. Optionally, a gear box may be included, which may increase the efficiency of the motor. The air supply, in at least one embodiment, may be a compressor configured to deliver compressed air. In one embodiment, the air may be substantially oxygen-free to assist in removing oxygen from the fire.

In one embodiment, the flexible duct may be in the form of a sleeve that extends from the air supply to the nozzles, along the boom. The duct or sleeve may branch into a plurality of branches and the number of branches may be equal to the number of nozzles. The flexible duct may, for example, have a diameter that is between 0.8 m and 1.2 m. The flexible duct may be formed of cotton, which may optionally have a fire-retardant coating applied to it. Other fire-retardant materials may also be suitable. The flexibility of the duct may accommodate changes in the arrangement of the mounting assembly (e.g. boom), such as when the mounting assembly has one or more hinging and/or telescoping sections.

In one embodiment, a system of wires and pulleys may be used to move the flexible duct along the boom. For example, a distal end of the mounting assembly (e.g. proximate the support structure) may comprise a plurality of pulleys. Wires may extend from a distal end of the flexible duct, around the pulleys, and back towards a proximate end of the mounting assembly (e.g. proximate the vehicle). In this way, the wires may be pulled to expand and move the distal end of the flexible duct to the distal end of the mounting assembly.

In this respect, the flexible duct may help to provide a compact arrangement when a telescopic boom is used. Further, the use of a flexible (i.e. rather than a rigid) duct may allow smooth bends to be formed, so as to reduce or avoid turbulent airflow.

The air supply may help to move the dispersed fluid (e.g. in the form of a wall of mist) in a direction of a fire. This may be especially useful in circumstances where wind would otherwise cause the dispersed fluid to move in a direction other than the direction of a fire. That is, the air supply system may allow an operator to counteract the effects of the wind in use.

In one embodiment the fluid supply network may comprise a high-flow system and a low-flow system.

In one embodiment each finger may comprise one or more high-flow spray nozzles in fluid communication with the high-flow system and one or more low- flow spray nozzles in fluid communication with the low-flow system.

In one embodiment the apparatus may comprise one or more diverter valves configured to divert fluid flow to respective high-flow nozzles, low-flow nozzles, or a combination of respective high-flow and low-flow nozzles. In this way, a combination of nozzles may be used. This may help the system to fight a variety of different fire types by providing multiple spray and nozzle configurations. Such versatility may allow an operator to manage fire-fighting fluid use, so as to increase the efficiency of the apparatus in use.

In one embodiment the high-flow system may be configured to provide a flow rate of between 600 L/min and 700 L/min, and the low-flow system may be configured to provide a flow rate of between 450 L/min and 550 L/min. The high-flow rate may instead be between 620 L/min and 660 L/min, and the low- flow system may be configured to provide a flow rate of between 460 L/min and 500 L/min. In this respect, the high flow system and low flow system can be used alone or in combination in order to provide a flow rate that is equivalent to the combination of the high and low flow systems.

In one embodiment a total combined pressure of the high-flow system and low- flow system may be configured to be about 10,000 kPa to 34,000 kPa. The total combined pressure of the high-flow system and low-flow system may be configured to be about 15,000 kPa to 30,000 kPa.

In one embodiment the fluid supply may comprise a reservoir for containing a fire -fighting fluid, and a pump for pumping the fire -fighting fluid from the reservoir to the spray nozzles. The fire-fighting fluid may be water, aqueous based, chemical foam(s), flowable material(s) used in fire-fighting such as dry powders, or gas(es) such as N2 and/or CO2.

In a second aspect there is disclosed a fluid dispersing apparatus for fire suppression. The apparatus comprises a boom, a plurality of arms pivotally connected to the boom, and a plurality of fingers pivotally connected to each arm. The plurality of arms are movable between a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration. The plurality of fingers are movable between a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration. Each finger comprises one or more spray nozzles. The plurality of arms and the plurality of fingers are supported substantially by the boom. The boom may entirely support the arms and fingers. This means that the system may not rely on ground supports to directly support the position of the fingers and/or arms.

When a fire-fighting fluid is pumped through the one or more nozzles, a wall of fire-fighting fluid (e.g. in the form of a mist) may be produced. The coverage of the wall may be determined by the distance the fingers move between the collapsed configuration and the expanded configuration. The coverage of the wall may also be determined by the distance the arms move between the collapsed configuration and the expanded configuration. Each finger and/or arm may be individually movable to provide areas of higher mist density (i.e. resulting from a smaller mist coverage). For example, some of the fingers may be grouped closer together to provide regions of higher mist density or lower mist density. Allowing each finger and/or arm to move independently of each other may help the system to provide a fluid dispersion coverage that can change in response to a change in fire conditions.

The apparatus of the second aspect may otherwise be as described above with respect to the first aspect.

In a third aspect there is disclosed a vehicle comprising the apparatus of the first or second aspects. The vehicle may be an off-road truck, a small compact truck, a large truck, a helicopter or a boat. The reservoir may be mounted on the vehicle. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying non-limiting drawings in which:

Fig. 1 shows a side view of a fluid dispersion system mounted on to a truck. Fig.2 shows an end view of the truck of Fig. 1.

Fig. 3 shows a side view of an embodiment of a fluid dispersion system.

Fig. 4 shows an end view of the fluid dispersion system of Fig. 3.

Fig. 5 shows a pulley system associated with the fluid dispersion system of Fig. 3.

Fig. 6 shows a side view of another embodiment of a fluid dispersion system.

Fig. 7 shows a side view of an embodiment of a fluid dispersion system.

Fig. 8 shows another embodiment of a fluid dispersing apparatus.

Fig. 9 shows a fluid distributor.

Fig. 10 shows a fluid distributor.

Fig. 11 shows a flow distributor.

Fig. 12 shows another embodiment of a fluid dispensing apparatus.

Fig. 13 shows another embodiment of a flow distributor.

Fig. 14 shows a side view of a further embodiment of a fluid dispersion system mounted on to a truck.

Fig. 15 shows a side view of an embodiment of a fluid dispersion system.

Fig. 16 shows a side view of a further embodiment of a fluid dispersion system.

Fig. 17 shows a face view of a fan orientation of one embodiment of a fluid dispersion system. Fig. 18 shows a side view of an expansion system of an embodiment of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, reference is made to accompanying drawings which form a part of the detailed description. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, depicted in the drawings and defined in the claims, are not intended to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilised and other changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein and illustrated in the drawings can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are contemplated in this disclosure.

Fig. 1 shows a fluid dispersion apparatus 10 for fighting fire mounted on a truck 12. Truck 12 has a cabin 14, reservoir in the form of tank 17, wheels 16 and various accessories such as auxiliary hose reel 13. Tank 17 is configured to contain a fire-fighting fluid (e.g. fire retardant, water, etc.). In some embodiments, hose reel 13 is fitted with a head having three nozzles (not shown). The three nozzles are configured to spread laterally relative to one another so that they form a fan of spray in use. The three nozzles located at the head are each adapted to provide fire-fighting fluid at a rate of 17 L/min. Mounted at the back of truck 12 is a mounting assembly in the form of frame 19. Mounting assembly also comprises a boom in the form of first member 18. Truck 12 also has jets 9 that are adapted to spray a fire-fighting fluid such as water around the base of truck 12. First member 18 is connected at a first end to frame 19 via a pivot point 21. The first member 18 defines a longitudinal axis extending along its length. An actuator in the form of hydraulic ram connects first member 18 to frame 19 to allow first member to be articulated around pivot point 21. First member 18 is also telescopic at region 15. An actuator such as hydraulic ram (not shown) is configured to extend or retract the telescopic region.

A plate 22 is connected to a second end of first member 18 via pivot point 24. A second member 20 is connected to plate 22 via pivot point 26. In this way, the boom has two sections, first member 18 and second member 20, that are foldable relative to one another. Linear actuators, such as hydraulic rams 28 and 30, are configured to move, respectively, the first member 18 relative to the second member 20. This allows the boom to be articulated in a hinged manner between a stored position and an in use position. In some embodiments, first member 18 is capable of being articulated from 0-270° relative to second member 20 (although it should be appreciated that larger or smaller ranges of angles are possible).

Because the boom is formed of a first member 18 that is telescopic (having two or more sections), and second member 20, the boom in some embodiments has two or more sections.

As shown in Fig. 2, the truck 12 has two tanks 17a and 17b. While two tanks are shown in Fig. 2, it should be appreciated that the truck may include any suitable number of tanks. Similarly, the size and shape of the tanks may be dependent on the size and shape of truck 12. Truck 12 also has retractable supports 40 that help stabilise the truck 12 in use of apparatus 10. Such retractable supports may be particularly useful where the truck is used on uneven terrain (e.g. when attending to wildfires). Tank 17 is provided with baffles to minimise and/or prevent unwanted fluid flow within tank 17.

In the embodiment of Fig. 3, second member 20 has a terminal region 42 that is pivotably connected via pivot point 52 to second member 20. An actuator in the form of hydraulic ram 54 is connected to terminal region 42 and second member 20. Extension or retraction of hydraulic ram 54 allows the terminal region 42 to rotate around pivot point 52. Arms 44 and 46 are pivotably connected to terminal portion 42 via pivot points 48 and 50, respectively, via a clevis-pin arrangement. A spring clip 49 is provided at pivot point 48 and 50 and is in contact with arms 44/46 and terminal region 42. Spring clip 49 is under tension and helps to force the pin and clevis together to reduce the amount of play in the joint. Reducing the amount of play ensures there is no unintended movement about pivot point 48/50 to help stiffen apparatus 10. As will become apparent below, all of the joints may include a spring clip (or other tensioning arrangement) so as to reduce or avoid unintended movement of the joint. Although not apparent from the figure, a hydraulic system is provided that is configured to operate the hydraulic rams associated with first member 18, frame 19, second member 20 and terminal portion 42. Arms 44 and 46 have two sections, 44a and 44b, and 46a and 46b, which are connected via pivot points 62 and 64, respectively. Linear actuator 66 connects section 44a to 44b, and linear actuator 68 connects section 46a to section 46b. The linear actuators 66 and 68 allow the sections to articulate relative to one another around pivot point 62 and 64, respectively. In the embodiment of Fig. 3, the linear actuators are hydraulic rams that form part of a hydraulic system. Each hydraulic ram is configured to move independently of each other, which allows sections 44b and 46b to be articulated at specific angles relative to sections 44a and 46a. This means that the apparatus 10 can be adjusted in response to changing fire conditions or in response to other environmental factors (e.g. such as obstructions).

Sections 44a and 46a are connected e.g. via a clevis-pin arrangement through struts 58 and 60 to ram 56. Ram 56 is a linear actuator than can move between a retracted position (as shown in Fig. 3) and an extended position. Spring clip 49 helps to connect sections 44a and 46a and struts 58 and 60, and strut 58 and 60 and ram 56, to minimize any unintended movement of the resulting joint.

Movement of ram 56 between the retracted and extended position causes struts 58 and 60 to apply a force on sections 44a and 46a so as to move the sections between a collapsed configuration (in which sections 44a and 46a define a generally compact arrangement), and an expanded configuration (as shown in Fig. 3). At the end of sections 44b and 46b are a plurality of fingers in the form of first expansion region 70. First expansion region 70 has a base portion in the form of plate 73. Struts 72 are pivotably connected to plate 73 via a pivot arrangement, and spring clip 49 helps to stablise the pivot arrangement. Struts 72 are connected to extendable member 74 through supports 78. Supports 78 are flexibly connected via joint 77, for example via a clevis-pin joint, to extendable member 74. The joint between supports 78 and struts 72 is stabilised via spring clip 49. Movement of extendable member 74 inwardly towards pivot point 62 to a retracted position forces each of the expansion struts 72 outwards into an expanded configuration. When the extendable member 74 is moved outwardly away from pivot point 62 into an extended position, the expansion struts 72 are forced towards one another into a collapsed configuration. As should be apparent, the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 3 shows the first expansion region 70 in the expanded configuration.

Connected at the end of first expansion region 70 is second expansion region 82. The second expansion region 82 is connected to the first expansion region 70 via plate 75. Second expansion region 82 is similar to the first expansion region 70 and has expansion struts 84, 86, 88 and 90 extending from plate 75. Expansion struts 84, 86, 88 and 90 are pivotably connected to plate 75 and are connected to extendable member 100 through supports 92, 94, 96 and 98. Extendable member 100 is a linear actuator in the form of a hydraulic ram. Movement of extendable member 100 inwards towards a retracted position forces expansion struts 84, 86, 88 and 90 outwards into an expanded configuration. When the extendable member 100 is moved outwards to an extended position, the expansion struts 84, 86, 88 and 90 are forced towards one another into a collapsed configuration. In an alternative embodiment, each of supports 92, 94, 96 and 98 are linear actuators, such as hydraulic rams, that are able to move each of expansion struts 84, 86, 88 and 90 individually. Whatever form the linear actuators take, they are moved with an associated system. For example, when the linear actuators are hydraulic rams, a hydraulic system is configured to move the struts between the collapsed and expanded configuration. Alternatively, an electrical system is used when the linear actuators are electric e.g. work on a rack and pinion mechanism. While the embodiment of Figure 3 shows two fingers for the first expansion region and eight fingers for the second expansion region, there may be any number of fingers. For example, a third expansion region may be located at the end of expansion struts 84, 86, 88 and 90 so that there are 64 fingers in total. In some embodiments there are more than two arms. For example, some

embodiments have 3, 4, 5 or more arms. In some embodiments, arms i.e. sections 441, 44b, 46a and 46b are not included and instead the first expansion region is the arm and is connected to pivot point 52. Alternatively, there is only one expansion region in some embodiments i.e. plate 73 is connected directly to second member 20.

In the embodiment of Fig. 3 nozzles 104 and 102, are disposed at, or proximate to, a distal end of expansion struts 84, 86, 88 and 90. Each of the nozzles at the distal end of struts 84, 86, 88 and 90 form an array of spray nozzles. For clarity, nozzles are only shown near the distal end of strut 84 and 90. The nozzles are substantially close to an end of expansion struts 84, 86, 88 and 90, but in some embodiments they may be positioned inboard of the ends. Nozzle 104 is a high-flow nozzle and nozzle 102 is a low-flow nozzle.

Nozzles 104 and 102 are connected to a fluid supply network configured to supply fluid to the nozzles in use. In the embodiment of Fig. 3, high-flow nozzle 104 is in fluid communication with a high-flow line 108 and low-flow nozzle 102 is connected to a low-flow line 106. A high-flow diverter valve 112 is in fluid communication with high-flow line 108, and a lower-pressure diverter valve 1 10 is in fluid communication with low-flow line 106. In the embodiment of Fig. 3, high-flow diverter valve 1 12 is connected to the four high-flow lines associated with the high-flow nozzles 104 located on each expansion strut 84, 86, 88 and 90. Similarly, low-flow diverter valve 1 10 is connected to the four low-flow lines associated with the low-flow nozzles 102 located on each expansion strut 84, 86, 88 and 90. Diverter valves 1 10 and 1 12 are configured to individually control each line extending to the associated nozzles. Therefore, fluid flow to each nozzle can be individually controlled, and fluid flow can be diverted to respective high- flow nozzles 104, low-flow nozzles 102, or a combination of respective high-flow and low-flow nozzles 104 and 102. An example of a pump used to pump fluid in the fluid supply network can be those manufactured by Bertolini. The engine may be a 200hp diesel engine.

For clarity, only lines 108 and 106 are shown in Fig. 3, but similar lines would be associated with the other nozzles in second expansion region 82.

In some embodiments, diverter valves 1 10 and 1 12 can be electronically and/or hydraulically controlled. Programmable computer logic (PCL) may be used in some embodiments to control diverter valves 1 10 and 1 12. Pressure sensors and/or flow meters are associated with diverter valves 1 10 and 112, and can provide input signals for the PCL. Temperature sensors can also provide input signals to the PCL. In this way, a change in fire conditions, as determined by a change in temperature, the rate of change, etc. can be used to control whether the high-flow nozzles 104 and/or the low-flow nozzles 102 are used. Flow meters can also be used to determine how much fluid is remaining in tank 17. Once the fluid level falls below a pre-determined valve, the PCL may instruct the diverter valves 1 10 and 1 12 to use only low-flow nozzles 102 to disperse fluid. In some embodiments, diverter valves 1 10 and 1 12 are manually controllable.

High-flow diverter valve 1 12 is connected to a second high-flow diverter valve 1 18 via conduit 1 14. Similarly, low-flow diverter valve 1 10 is connected to second low-flow diverter valve 220 via conduit 1 16. Second diverter valves 1 18 and 120 are associated with the first expansion region 70. In the embodiment of Fig. 3, second diverter valves 1 18 and 120 have four conduits connected to each of the high- and low-flow lines associated with each of the second expansion regions 82. It should be appreciated that the number of second expansion regions 82, should generally match the number of pressure lines required to connect diverter valves 118 and 120 to the second expansion regions 82.

In the embodiment of Fig. 3, the high-flow system is configured to provide a flow rate of between 380 L/min and 420 L/min, and the low-flow system is configured to provide a flow rate of between 280 L/min and 320 L/min. Flow rates higher than 320 L/min are used in some embodiments. A total combined pressure of the high-flow system and low-flow system is configured to be about 10,000 kPa to 34,000 kPa. The conduits and lines associated with the fluid supply network may be flexible and/or stiff.

In an embodiment of apparatus 10, there are 32 high-flow nozzles and 32 low- flow nozzles arranged on 32 struts. For example, this can be provided by having a structure with 8 second expansion regions 82. The high-flow nozzles are supplied using the high-flow line at a flow rate of 20 L/min and the low-flow nozzles are supplied using the low-flow line at a flow rate of 15 L/min. The total flow rate for the high-flow line is 480 L/min and the total flow rate of the low-flow line is 640 L/min, giving a total flow rate of 1, 120 L/min. For a tank 17 having a capacity of approximately 18 tonnes of fire-fighting fluid such as water, this provides a run time of approximately 15 minutes of full operation. However, since the diverter valves can control the flow to the high- and low-flow lines, for example by using only the high-flow line, only the low-flow line, or a combination of the high- and low-flow lines, the total run time of apparatus 10 will vary.

In another embodiment, apparatus 10 has 15 low-flow nozzles and 15 high-flow nozzles. The low-flow nozzles operate at a flow rate of 15 L/min and the high- flow nozzles operate at a flow rate of 20 L/min, giving a total low-flow flow rate of 225 L/min and a total high-flow flow rate of 300 L/min. When combined, the total flow rate is 525 L/min. A truck having this arrangement is typically a smaller fire-fighting truck. The engine of the smaller truck is generally strong enough to drive either the high-flow nozzles or the low-flow nozzles. If both high- and low- flow nozzles are required, then the pump associated with apparatus 10 is turned on. The use of the low-flow and/or high-flow will depend on the fire conditions. Being able to deploy either the high- or low-flow nozzles, or a combination of both, give apparatus 10 flexibility in fighting a variety of fire conditions.

Fig. 4 shows an end view of the embodiment depicted in Fig. 3. Supports 92, 94, 96 and 98 of the second expansion region 82 are arranged approximately perpendicular to one another to provide a cross-like arrangement in the expanded configuration. A similar arrangement is used for the first expansion region 70. In this way, the nozzles of the fluid supply network are generally arranged in a grid pattern. However, when struts 72 and supports 92, 94, 96 and 98 are individually controllable, the positioning of each nozzle is adjustable so that the fluid supply network can adopt any position necessary (i.e. so as to be adaptable to various fire suppression scenarios). For example, the height H or width W of the area governed by the position of the nozzles can be adjusted according to the fire conditions. Regardless of the specific locations of the nozzles, they are generally arranged in a planar fashion. Therefore, when fluid is dispensed from the nozzles, a wall of mist formed from fine fluid droplets forms. The density of the mist is adjustable by changing diverter valve(s) and the position(s) of the nozzles.

Generally, the nozzles will be orientated approximately parallel to a fire front so that any resulting wall of mist will also be orientated approximately parallel to the fire front. However, some fires may require a wall of mist to be of differing angles relative to the fire front.

When sections 44a and 46b, first expansion region 70 and second expansion region 82 are in the collapsed configuration, they are all positioned proximate to an axis defined by ram 56 (extending into the page on Fig. 4) so as to define a generally compact arrangement. Only high-flow nozzle 104 is shown in Fig. 4 and the diverter valves and associated lines and conduits are omitted for clarity.

Referring again to Fig. 1, the apparatus 10 has an air supply system 32. Air supply system 32 has a blower in the form of tube 33. A motor 34 has a shaft 36 extending into tube 33. One or more fans 38 are located on shaft 36 so as to be positioned within tube 33. Motor 34 can be an electric motor or a combustion engine, for example diesel or petrol, and can have turbochargers and other associated components. A gearbox is associated with motor 34 in some embodiments. Use of a gearbox allows for a high fan rotation speed compared to a relatively low motor rotation speed. For example, a gearbox can allow the fans to spin at an RPM many times greater than an RPM of the motor. The gearbox is either manually or automatically controlled. Automatic control is provided by PCL. The size of the fan(s) 38, tube 33 and motor is dependent on the size of the system and expected airflow rates. In the embodiment of Fig. 1, four fans 38 are mounted onto shaft 36 (in parallel), although there may be more or less than four fans. The air supply system 32 is not provided in all embodiments. Further, the air supply system 32 may selectively be used such as when the resulting spray needs to be blown towards a fire in use.

Air supply system 32 is configured to provide an airflow that is able to direct the fluid dispensed by the nozzles 102 and 104, and the resulting wall of mist, towards the fire front. To control a direction of an airflow generated by the air supply system 32, a flexible duct is connected to tube 33 (not shown in Fig. 1). In use, the flexible duct extends along the boom (i.e. first member 18 and second member 20) towards the nozzles (e.g. along the direction of arrow 35). The flexible sleeve may be in the form of one conduit, or have a plurality of conduits in fluid communication to allow airflow to travel within each conduit of the plurality of conduits. This may allow, for example, airflow to be directed to each nozzle.

To move the flexible sleeve, a pulley system 200 is provided along first member 18 and second member 20 (as shown in Fig. 5). Pulley system 200 has guides 202 that guide wire 204 towards a brace, in form of a ring member 206, located towards a distal end of terminal portion 42. Ring member 206 is secured to terminal portion 42 by cross-members 208 and 210. Pulleys 212 are located on ring member 206. Wire 204 extends along the length from the first member 18, second member 20 and terminal portion 42 to pulleys 212, before returning back along the boom. The flexible sleeve is connected to wire 20 such that movement of the wire 204 causes the flexible sleeve to extend from a retracted position to move towards an extended position where an opening of the flexible sleeve opens onto ring member 206. While ring member 206 is shown as being circular, the present disclosure is not limited to any particular shape.

Air supply system 32 is mounted to the boom along the first member 18 in the embodiment of Fig. 3. Given the sleeve is flexible, the air supply system 32 can be mounted onto frame 19, or another structure associated with truck 12. For example, the air supply system 32 can be mounted with respect to tank 17. The actual mounting location of air supply system 32 is not important, so long as the airflow generated by system 32 is able to be directed towards the resulting mist from the fluid that is dispersed from the nozzles.

Fig. 6 shows a different embodiment of a fluid dispersion apparatus 300.

Apparatus 300 is similar to apparatus 10, but the first second expansion region 82 is mounted directly to terminal portion 42. As shown in Fig. 6, struts 304, 306, 308, 310 and 312 are pivotably mounted at one end to plate 303. Plate 303 is secured to terminal portion 42. Nozzles 314 and 316 are mounted at the other end of the 304, 306, 308, 310 and 312. For clarity, only nozzles 314 and 316 are shown in Fig. 6. Extending from terminal portion 42 is extendable member 302. Extendable member 302 is connected to an actuator e.g. hydraulic ram and is moveable towards and away from plate 303. A brace 305 is pivotably connected towards an end of extendable member and strut 306. Only one brace is shown for clarity reasons, but in practice the number of braces is equal to the number of struts, and each strut is connected to a brace. More than one brace may be connected to each strut.

Movement of extendable member 302 away from plate 303 causes brace 305 to move outwards, which forces each of the struts away from each other. Therefore, movement of the extendable member 302 away from plate 303 causes struts 304, 306, 308, 310 and 312 to move from a collapsed position to an expanded position. Diverter valves 318 and 320 are associated with terminal portion 42. Conduits 322 and 423 are in fluid communication with diverter valves 318 and 320. Although not shown in Fig. 6, diverter valves 318 and 320 are in fluid communication with each of nozzles 316 and 314. As with apparatus 10, diverter valves 318 and 320 can be high-flow and/or low-flow diverter valves. Switching between the high- flow and low-flow diverter valves is carried out as set forth above for apparatus 10.

Fig. 7 shows a different embodiment of a fluid dispersion apparatus 400.

Apparatus 400 is similar to apparatus 10 and 300, but the nozzles are rotatable. Extendable member 402 moves relative to plate 401 similar to extendable member 302. Movement of extendable member 402 away from plate 401 causes brace 404 to push strut 406 outwards from a collapsed configuration to an expanded conflguration. Fig 7 shows the expanded configuration. Nozzles 412 are pivotably mounted towards an end of strut 406. An actuator 408 is connected to strut 406 and nozzles 412. Extension of actuator 408 causes the tips 414 of nozzles to pivot outwards and retraction of actuator 408 causes the tips 414 to pivot inwards. While only one strut and nozzle arrangement is shown in Fig. 7, other embodiments have a plurality of struts and associated nozzles connected to extendable member 412. Similar to Fig. 6, diverter valve 414 is associated with nozzles 412. Only one diverter valve is shown in Fig. 7, but there can be a plurality of diverter valves to allow switching between high-flow and/or low-flow lines and nozzles as set forth above for apparatus 10 and 300. Apparatus 400 is applied to the second expansion region 82 in apparatus 10 in some embodiments. Fig. 8 shows an embodiment of a fluid dispersion apparatus that is configured to be attached to a helicopter. Apparatus 500 has a support frame 501 on which is supported a reservoir in the form of tank 502. Tank 502 is fitted with baffles (not shown) to suppress or prevent unwanted fluid flow when apparatus 500 is suspended from a helicopter in use. Minimising or preventing unwanted fluid flow helps to stabilise movement of apparatus 500 by the helicopter. Support frame 501 also supports an engine 504, gearbox 506 and low-pressure pump 520 and high- pressure pumps 522, 524 and 526. Pumps 520, 522 524 and 526 are connected to gearbox 506 via shaft 508. Shaft 508 is also connected to high-flow pump 512. High-flow pump 512 is in fluid communication with suction hose 510 and conduit 514. In use, the high-flow pump 512 sucks fluid up through suction hose 510 and into tank 502 via conduit 514. Conduit 520 fluidly connects tank 502 to pumps 520, 522 524 and 526.

Extending from pumps 520, 522 524 and 526 is delivery conduit 518 that delivers high-flow fluid and/or low-flow fluid to a fluid distributor 528 in use. A by-pass conduit 516 fluidly connects fluid distributor 528 to tank 502 and serves as a pressure safety valve if the pressure in the apparatus 500 exceeds a predetermined valve. Embodiments of fluid distributor 528 are explained with reference to Fig. 9 and Fig. 10.

In use, support frame 501 is secured to the helicopter using known securement mechanisms (i.e. for cargo-carrying helicopters).

Fig. 9 shows an embodiment of a fluid distributor 528. In this embodiment, the fluid distributor takes the form of frame 600. Frame 600 has three coaxially positioned rings 602, 604 and 606. Extending between rings 602, 604 and 606 are radially extending conduits 608 and 610. Nozzles 614 and 614 are positioned on radially extending conduits 608 and 610 proximate to rings 602 and 604, and nozzle 616 is positioned on radially extending conduits 608 and 610 proximate to ring 606. Nozzles 614 and 616 are provided as two nozzles having a high-flow nozzle and a low-flow nozzle. Nozzle 616 is provided as either a high-flow nozzle or a low-flow nozzle. Radially extending conduits are connected at a central location 618 and are joined to form a central conduit that is in fluid

communication with pumps 520, 522, 524 and 526. The central conduit may have separate high-flow lines and low-flow lines depending on the configuration of apparatus 600. The number of radially extending conduits 608 and 610 depends on the required volume of fluid delivery and the number of nozzles required. In some embodiments, frame 600 is splittable into sections, such as quarters, to allow for easy of transport when not in use .

Fig, 10 shows the support structure 700 for frame 600. The rings 602, 604 and 606 are connected together with supports 710, 712 and 714. Connection points, e.g. point 716, are illustrated as black dots. The connection may be made by welding, adhesive and/or fasteners. Radially extending supports 718 help to stabilise a central ring 708. The central conduit described for Fig. 9 runs through the centre of ring 708 in some embodiments. Mounting points 718 allow the support structure, and in turn frame 600, to be connected to a helicopter, for example by stainless steel ropes. While three rings have been described, frame 600/700 can have any number of rings. Each of the wires connected to mounting points 718 can be individually controlled by motors to shorten or lengthen the length of each wire so as to control the level of the frame 600 and/or the distance by which the frame 600 is suspended beneath the helicopter in use. For example, it may be beneficial in some circumstances to angle the frame 600 so as to direct the fluid dispersed from the frame at a fire.

That is, the angle i.e. pitch of frame 600 is adjustable by shortening or lengthening individual wires connecting frame 600 to the helicopter.

Conduit 518 is equipped with quick-fitting fluid connectors, such as a Wiggins fitting, to allow frame 600 to be rapidly disconnected from apparatus 500. This helps to give apparatus 500 flexibility in that it is able to quickly adjust to changing fire conditions. In use, apparatus 500, and in turn frame 600, are configured to operate between 400 to 5000 PSI.

Figure 1 1 shows another embodiment of frame 800 assembly configured to be suspended from a helicopter. Frame 80 has a base plate 802 to which strut 804 and 806 are pivotably connected thereto by pivot points 805 and 807. Extendable member 812 is connected to supports 808 and 810. Movement of the extendable member 812 causes struts 804 and 806 to move between a collapsed configuration and an expanded configuration as described above using hydraulic rams e.g. as for Fig. 3. At the end of struts 804 and 806 are positioned an expandable region 814. Expandable region 814 is similar to expandable region 82 and has a high-flow line/nozzles and a low-flow line/nozzles. Spring clips 49 help to stablise the pivoting joints of frame 800. Attachment portions e.g. eyelets are attached to base plate 802. The attachment portions are configured to attach frame 800 to a helicopter e.g. via wire rope(s). Conduits associated with frame 800 are connectable to conduit 518.

As in many figures, for simplicity only a portion of the nozzles have been shown. In an alternative embodiment the layout of the nozzles can comprise a configuration that allows for the fluid flow from each nozzle to be substantially aligned in both contracted and expanded positions. Fig. 12 shows another embodiment of a fluid dispersion apparatus. Apparatus 900 has a support frame 904 on which is supported a reservoir in the form of tank 902. Support frame 904 also supports an engine 906, gearbox 908 and low-pressure pump 922 and high-pressure pumps 920 and 918. Pumps 922, 920 and 918 are connected to gearbox 908 via shaft 917. Conduits 914 and 916 extend from high- pressure pumps 920 and 918. Also connected to gearbox 908 is a hydraulic pump 910. Hydraulic pump 910 provides hydraulic power to associated distributors e.g. frame 800. In fluid communication with tank 902 is a suction hose 924 that is housed in hose reel 928. Hose reel 928 is configured to raise and lower hose 924. At the end of hose 924 is connector 926.

In use, connection 926 is connected to a fitting in communication with one or more pumps. For example, 4 pumps located on the ground can each be in fluid communication with a body of water via separate pipes. Each open end of the pipes can have a float so that the open end sits just below the surface of the body of water. The outlets of the 4 pumps are then connected to form a single conduit having the fitting. A frame can support the pump, conduit and/or fitting. In this way, to refill tank 902, a helicopter can lower hose 924 so that connector 926 is secured to the fitting, and then the 4 pumps can fill tank 902. An advantage of this arrangement is that the 4 pumps can have a high flow rate to fill up tank 902 quickly. In addition, this arrangement also means that the helicopter does not need to carry a pump to fill up tank 902. This saves weight and/or allows the helicopter to carry addition items, such as a larger tank.

The fluid supply network of apparatus 900 only includes one set of nozzles (i.e. as opposed previously described embodiments). An example of such a distributor is shown in Fig. 13. In Fig. 13, frame 950 has two fluid networks, a first network 951, which is fed in use by conduit 916, and a second network 953, which is fed in use by conduit 914. Nozzles 958 are associated with the first network 951, and nozzles 958 are associated with the second network 953. Flow distributors 952 and 954 are associated with the first network and second network, respectively. Flow distributors 952 and 954 help to control the flow in the first and second networks, for example shutting off fluid flow. Conduits 914 and 916 are flexible. Each of the first and second networks are capable of delivering fluid at a rate of 410 L/min. In another embodiment, the second network is a low-flow line that is optionally fed from a low-pressure pump (not shown), such as apparatus 500. In an embodiment of frame 600, one of the radially extending arms (e.g. conduit 610) has a first flow network having 2 nozzles that each deliver a fluid at a flow rate of 10 L/min and 1 nozzle that delivers a fluid at a flow rate of 20 L/min, and a second network having 2 nozzles that each deliver a fluid at a flow rate of 20 L/min. Therefore, both flow networks in a single radially extending arm operate at a flow rate of 40 L/min, with the total flow rate being 80L/min. In embodiments where there are 10 radially extending arms, the total flow rate would be 800L/min.

Fig. 14 shows a fluid dispersion apparatus 10 for fighting fire mounted on a truck 12. The apparatus is similar to that shown in Figure 1 and like numerals are used to indicate like features. Truck 12 has a cabin 14, reservoir in the form of tank 17, wheels 16 and various accessories such as auxiliary hose reel 13. Tank 17 is configured to contain a fire-fighting fluid (e.g. fire retardant, water, etc.). In some embodiments, hose reel 13 is fitted with a head having three nozzles (not shown). The three nozzles are configured to spread laterally relative to one another so that they form a fan of spray in use. The three nozzles located at the head are each adapted to provide fire-fighting fluid at a rate of 17 L/min. Mounted at the back of truck 12 is a mounting assembly in the form of frame 19. Mounting assembly also comprises a boom in the form of first member 18.

First member 18 is connected at a first end to frame 19 via a pivot point 21. The first member 18 defines a longitudinal axis extending along its length. An actuator in the form of hydraulic ram or alternative actuator connects first member 18 to frame 19 to allow first member to be articulated around pivot point 21. First member 18 is also telescopic at region 15. An actuator such as a hydraulic ram (not shown) is configured to extend or retract the telescopic region. A joint 1022 is connected to a second end of first member 18 via pivot point 1024. A second member 20 is connected to joint 1022 via pivot point 1026. In this way, the boom has two sections, first member 18 and second member 20, that are foldable relative to one another. Linear actuators, such as hydraulic rams 28 and 30, are configured to move, respectively, the first member 18 relative to the second member 20. This allows the boom to be articulated in a hinged manner between a stored position and an in use position. In some embodiments, first member 18 is capable of being articulated from 0-270° relative to second member 20 (although it should be appreciated that larger or smaller ranges of angles are possible).

Because the boom is formed of a first member 18 that is telescopic (having two or more sections), and second member 20, the boom in some embodiments has two or more sections.

In some forms a secondary boom member 1010 extends from the second member 20 and is pivoted at pivot point 101 1. This member allows for movement of the second member upwardly with respect to the truck while maintaining a horizontal or substantially horizontal relationship with the truck to ensure that the terminal portion 1042 maintains a horizontal relationship with the truck. Ram 1013 controls movement of the secondary boom member 1010. In the embodiment of Fig. 15, second member 20 has a terminal region 1042 that is pivotably connected via pivot point 1052 to second member 20. An actuator in the form of hydraulic ram 1054 is connected to terminal region 1042 and second member 20. Extension or retraction of hydraulic ram 10 54 allows the terminal region 1042 to rotate around pivot point 1052. Arms 1044 and 1046 are pivotably connected to terminal portion 1042 via pivot points 1048 and 1050, respectively, via a clevis-pin arrangement. In some forms a spring clip reduces the amount of play in the joint. Reducing the amount of play ensures there is no unintended movement about pivot point 1048/1050 to help stiffen apparatus 10. As will become apparent below, all of the joints may include a spring clip (or other tensioning arrangement) so as to reduce or avoid unintended movement of the joint. Although not apparent from the figure, a hydraulic system is provided that is configured to operate the hydraulic rams associated with first member 18, frame 19, second member 20 and terminal portion 1042.

Arms 1044 and 1046 have two sections, 1044a and 1044b, and 1046a and 1046b, which are connected via pivot points 1062 and 1064, respectively. Linear actuator 1066 connects section 1044a to 1044b, and linear actuator 1068 connects section 1046a to section 1046b. The linear actuators 1066 and 1068 allow the sections to articulate relative to one another around pivot point 1062 and 1064, respectively.

In the embodiment of Fig. 15, the linear actuators are hydraulic rams that form part of a hydraulic system. Each hydraulic ram is configured to move

independently of each other, which allows sections 1044b and 1046b to be articulated at specific angles relative to sections 1044a and 1046a. This means that the apparatus 10 can be adjusted in response to changing fire conditions or in response to other environmental factors (e.g. such as obstructions). Sections 1044a and 1046a are connected e.g. via a clevis-pin arrangement through struts 1058 and 1060 to ram 1056. Ram 1056 is a linear actuator than can move between a retracted position (as shown in Fig. 15) and an extended position. Movement of ram 1056 between the retracted and extended position causes struts 1058 and 1060 to apply a force on sections 1044a and 1046a so as to move the sections between a collapsed configuration (in which sections 1044a and 1046a define a generally compact arrangement), and an expanded configuration (as shown in Fig. 15).

At the end of sections 1044b and 1046b are a plurality of fingers in the form of first expansion region that are not illustrated in these Figures. Nozzles are positioned at the expansion region to disperse water and are connected to a fluid supply network configured to supply fluid to the nozzles in use.

The apparatus 10 has an air supply system 1032. Air supply system 1032 has a blower in the form of tube 1033. As shown in Fig. 15, one or more fans 1038 are located on shaft 1036 so as to be positioned within tube 1033. The fans may be motorised using a combustion or electric motor.

Air supply system 1032 is mounted to sections 1044b and 1046b in this embodiment although they may be positioned elsewhere. From this position the airflow generated by the air supply system is able to be directed toward the mist from the fluid dispersed by the nozzles.

Referring now to Fig 16, an alternative expansion region 1070 is shown. Primary struts 1072 are pivotably connected to terminal region 1042 via a pivot arrangement, and spring clips 1049 helps to stabilise the pivot arrangement. Primary struts are also connected to outer members 1077. Contraction struts 1075 are connected to extendable central member 1073. When the extendable central member 1073 is moved outwardly away from terminal region 1042 into an extended position, the contraction struts 1075 are forced towards one another into a collapsed configuration. As should be apparent, the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 16 shows the expansion region 1070 in the expanded configuration.

Connected at the end of first expansion region 1070 is second expansion region 1082. The second expansion region 1082 is connected to the first expansion region 1070 via struts 1081.

In the embodiment of Fig. 16 nozzles 1 104, are disposed at, or proximate to, a distal end of second expansion region 1082. For clarity, nozzles are only shown near the distal end of one outer member 1077.

The configuration shown in Fig. 16 provides additional stability in windy conditions.

Fig. 17 shows the fan layout 1090 in one embodiment of the disclosure.

A further embodiment of second expansion region 1082 is shown in Fig. 18. In this embodiment, multiple expansion members 1202 and struts 1203 are utilised to position the nozzles 1204. Movement of the expandable portion 1205 of the expansion member 1202 outwardly to extend the expansion member affects the angle of strut 1203 and therefore the position of nozzle 1204. Movement of the expandable portion outwardly folds the struts toward the member. The shape of the two struts allows for movement of the struts around one another. That is, the C or bracket shape of one strut allows movement of that tip around the tip of the straight strut. For simplicity a single set of two nozzles is shown in Fig. 18 but in some forms multiple sets of nozzles are utilised. In some forms 4 sets of nozzles are positioned on each expansion member.

In not illustrated embodiments positioned on smaller trucks alternative nozzle layouts having 6 or 3 nozzles may be utilised. In some forms the layout includes three aligned nozzles, in some forms the layout includes six nozzles.

Variations and modifications may be made to the process previously described without departing from the spirit or ambit of the disclosure.

In the claims which follow and in the preceding summary except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word "comprising" is used in the sense of "including", that is, the features as above may be associated with further features in various embodiments.