U.S. PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE
Information Products Division |
U.S. Patent Classification System - Classification Definitions
as of June 30, 2000
Patents classified in a subclass may be accessed by either clicking on
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(definitions have been obtained from the
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Electronic Products Branch)
Class 169
FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
Class Definition:
This class includes patents for apparatus and methods
designed specifically for extinguishing fire and elements of
such apparatus not classifiable in border existing classes;
also apparatus capable of performing this function if
designed to prevent fire by operating in anticipation of fire
conditions.
LINES WITH OTHER CLASSES AND WITHIN THIS CLASS
Devices whose sole function is the extinguishing of fire by
smothering are included in this class (169); but devices for
smothering fire by closing doors, windows, shutters, and the
like are excluded. For the latter see Class 49, Movable or
Removable Closures, and Class 160, Flexible or Portable
Closure, Partition, or Panel, especially subclass 1 and
indented subclasses. Where the smothering and extinguishing
actions are combined, the patent is classified in the
appropriate subclass of this class (169).
Apparatus for the general purpose of distributing fluids is
found in Class 137, Fluid Handling.
See Class 239, Fluid Sprinkling, Spraying, and Diffusing,
appropriate subclasses for apparatus used for sprinkling and
spraying of fluids.
REFERENCES TO OTHER CLASSES
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
102, Ammunition and Explosives, subclass 370 for projectiles
carrying fire extinguishing gases.
131, Tobacco, subclass 235.1, 236, 237, and 256 for cigar and
cigarette extinguishers.
252, Compositions, for compositions for use in extinguishing
fires.
SUBCLASSES
Subclass:
5
This subclass is indented under the class definition. The
general type of complete extinguishing apparatus under the
... involving a source of extinguishing fluid,
distributing-pipes for conveying the fluid, to distant points
of application, discharge outlets for delivering the fluid,
and means for causing the propulsion of the fluid through the
system when desired, the latter means including the force of
gravity.
(1) Note. This subclass includes systems in which the
distributing-pipes have combined functions, such as serving
for both extinguishing and heating or ventilating.
Subclass:
6
This subclass is indented under subclass 5. Systems, in which
a liquid is discharged from its supply-tank by pressure
generated by the reaction of chemicals mixed at the time
discharge is to occur.
Subclass:
7
This subclass is indented under subclass 6. Systems, in which
the operation occurs automatically in response to fire
conditions, such as an abnormal increase of temperature in
the region to be protected.
Subclass:
8
This subclass is indented under subclass 7. Systems, wherein
the operation occurs automatically in direct response to a
variation of pressure of the fluid which normally fills the
distributing-pipes. This pressure change usually results from
the opening of a thermally-controlled sprinkler-head,
permitting flow of gas or liquid from the pipes.
Subclass:
9
This subclass is indented under subclass 5. Fluid systems, in
which an agent is discharged from its container by the
pressure of a gas normally confined in the same or in a
separate container.
Subclass:
10
This subclass is indented under subclass 5. Systems, wherein
the source is essentially a liquid-tank not under pressure,
but elevated above the distributing-pipes so that discharge
will occur by gravity.
Subclass:
11
This subclass is indented under subclass 5. Systems, wherein
extinguishing agent is gaseous or is delivered in the form of
a gas and by its own energy or by mechanical blowers.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
62, Refrigeration, subclass 45.1 for process and apparatus
for handling solidified or liquefied gas (e.g.,
CO[supscrpt]2[end supscrpt]) as a commodity requiring steps
or means special to liquefied gas and more than required for
other liquids.
Subclass:
12
This subclass is indented under subclass 11. The
extinguishing agent consisting of flue or furnace gases or
like products of combustion and is forced into the fire area
usually after being cooled and purified.
Subclass:
13
This subclass is indented under subclass 5. Systems, in which
a pump is the essential element for propelling a liquid agent
from a low-pressure or pressureless source to the point of
application.
Subclass:
14
This subclass is indented under subclass 5. Systems, wherein
two or more substances, one or more in liquid form, are
caused to unite or mix in passing from their sources to a
common discharge-point.
(1) Note. This group includes those "foam" systems in which
two liquids are mixed near the discharge point to form a
fire-extinguishing foam.
Subclass:
15
This subclass is indented under subclass 14. Systems, in
which a main liquid stream in passing to the discharge point
is modified by adding or injecting another substance, such as
a gas, dissolved solid, or solid matter in suspension.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
137, Fluid Handling, subclass 87.01 for self proportioning
or correlating systems, especially subclasses 111+ for plural
inflows, and subclass 268 for a fluid handling system with a
holder for solid material to be entrained in a flow. See the
search notes thereunder.
Subclass:
16
This subclass is indented under subclass 5. Patents, relating
to the control of the distribution of fluid through the pipes
or branches of the system to the discharge-points and the
arrangement of the pipes or outlets.
Subclass:
17
This subclass is indented under subclass 16. Systems, in
which the pipes are normally closed and filled with gas,
which is displaced by extinguishing liquid when the system is
active. Operation results from the pressure change following
the opening of a thermally controlled outlet.
Subclass:
18
This subclass is indented under subclass 16. Hand-operated
means for operating valves which control the flow through the
pipes, usually arranged to permit control from a distant
point.
Subclass:
19
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Valves
for normally restraining flow through a fluid system and
opening automatically to permit flow upon the occurrence of
fire conditions. Usually an increase of temperature in the
protected area is the ultimate condition which governs the
operation of the valve.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
137, Fluid Handling, subclasses 65+, 72+, 79+, 457, and 468
for other valve actuation responsive to increased
temperature.
Subclass:
20
This subclass is indented under subclass 19. Valves, which
operate as a direct result of a pressure change in the fluid
normally filling the distributing pipes or an auxiliary
system of pipes extended into the area to be protected. These
valves are used principally in dry pipe distributing systems
and usually include a "water-valve", which is held closed
against the pressure of the source by force transmitted from
an "air-valve" exposed to the pressure of the fluid normally
filling the distributing-pipes.
Subclass:
21
This subclass is indented under subclass 20. Apparatus,
wherein the pressure on the air-valve is transmitted to the
water-valve through a system of levers or like mechanical
elements and usually in increased amount.
Subclass:
22
This subclass is indented under subclass 20. Apparatus,
wherein the pressure of the fluid in the distributing- pipes
is transmitted directly from the air-valve to the water-valve
to maintain the latter closed, the effective area of the
air-valve being greater than that of the water-valve. The
air-valve may be integral with the water-valve or may have a
bearing upon it without the interposition of levers, toggles,
or the like.
Subclass:
23
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Alarm
or signal devices peculiarly adapted for use in connection
with extinguishing systems for signaling the abnormal
position of a valve or abnormal flow through the pipes.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
116, Signals and Indicators, subclass 227.
340, Communications: Electrical, subclasses 577-599 for
electric fire alarm systems which are automatically
responsive to fire or temperature. See the class definition
of Class 340 for the line between Classes 169 and 340.
Subclass:
24
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Apparatus, of
the type used by city fire companies which includes the
combination of pumping apparatus with a vehicle and is
especially adapted for extinguishing fire.
(1) Note. Inventions in the pump or power plant, per se, are
excluded.
Subclass:
25
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Extinguishing
apparatus, involving a portable discharge pipe or structure
having an inlet connection and a discharge-nozzle and means
for elevating the nozzle and controlling the direction of the
discharge.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
182, Fire Escape, Ladder, or Scaffold, subclasses 51+ for
similar structure wherein the hose or nozzle support is a
vehicle mounted ladder or scaffold.
239, Fluid Sprinkling, Spraying, and Diffusing subclasses
146+ for mobile spray systems.
Subclass:
26
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Fire
extinguishing devices which includes a container for an
extinguishing agent adapted to be placed in the space to be
protected and means automatic in operation for causing the
agent to be discharged into the space around the container.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
30 and indented subclasses, for portable vessels.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
206, Special Receptacle or Package, subclasses 219+ for a
container with plural distinct contents which contents can be
mixed by rupture, manipulation or agitation of the container
or container portions.
Subclass:
27
This subclass is indented under subclass 26. Devices, wherein
the discharge of the extinguishing agent is due to pressure
generated by the reaction of normally separated chemicals,
which are mixed at the time of operation.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
32
Subclass:
28
This subclass is indented under subclass 26. Devices, in
which an explosive substance is provided which upon
detonation bursts the container and scatters the contents.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
35 36.
Subclass:
29
This subclass is indented under subclass 26. Devices, in
which the contents of the container are discharged or
scattered by mechanical means, such as a spring-motor or
electric motor.
Subclass:
30
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Fire
extinguishing devices adapted to be carried or transported by
an operator to the fire area, comprising a container for an
extinguishing agent and means for causing the discharge of
the agent at the will of the operator.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
116, Signals and Indicators, subclass 215 for indicators to
show a fire extinguisher has been used.
206, Special Receptacle or Package, subclasses 219+ for a
container with plural distinct contents which contents can be
mixed by rupture, manipulation or agitation of the container
or container portions.
Subclass:
33
This subclass is indented under subclass 30. Devices wherein
the discharge is caused by a pump or a mechanically operated
piston acting on the contents.
(1) Note. This group includes vessels provided with rotary
or rectilinear pumps operated by hand or motor, and
extinguishers of the piston syringe type.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
222, Dispensing, subclasses 372+ for dispensing containers
with pumps, subclasses 386+ for follower type dispensers.
239, Fluid Sprinkling, Spraying, and Diffusing, subclasses
320+ and 329+ for pump or follower type discharge for
projecting material from the receptacle.
Subclass:
34
This subclass is indented under subclass 30. Containers of
the bucket adapted to store a quantity of extinguishing agent
which is to be directly dashed or thrown upon a fire.
Subclass:
35
This subclass is indented under subclass 30. Vessels for
containing an extinguishing agent, usually a powder, which is
discharged from one end of the vessel either by so shaking it
as to throw the contents on the fire or by means of small
explosive charges buried in the contents.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
28 for devices of the latter type designed for both
automatic operation and hand use.
Subclass:
36
This subclass is indented under subclass 30. Vessels
comprising a fragile container filled with an extinguishing
agent, which is discharged by throwing the container into the
fire area, so as to break it and liberate the contents.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
206, Special Receptacle or Package, subclasses 219+ for a
container with plural distinct contents which contents can be
mixed by rupture, manipulation or agitation of the container
or container portions.
Subclass:
37
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Thermally-controlled discharge elements or outlets under the
... for extinguishing fluid, comprising a nozzle, a valve or
closure member therefor, and means for normally holding the
valve in closing position and automatically releasing or
opening it upon an increase of temperature.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
239, Fluid Sprinkling, Spraying, and Diffusing, especially in
the deflector subclasses (498, etc.), for spray nozzle or
discharge members not automatically controlled. The patents
in Class 239 may disclose but do not claim the fusible link.
Subclass:
38
This subclass is indented under subclass 37. The valve is
supported by means of a strut or compression device arranged
between the valve and a part of the frame, the strut being
designed to fall or collapse upon an increase of its
temperature. This includes struts consisting of a single or
simple element which falls by fusion, combustion, or
bursting.
Subclass:
39
This subclass is indented under subclass 38. The strut,
comprises a plurality of articulated elements whose holding
relationship is destroyed on the failure of the strut. The
elements of the strut may include levers or other mechanical
forms, but the strut as a whole is a compression resisting
device.
Subclass:
40
This subclass is indented under subclass 37. The valve, is
supported by a lever or system of levers which communicate
the thrust of the valve to the frame at two or more separated
points.
Subclass:
41
This subclass is indented under subclass 37., the valve or a
member connected to and moving with the valve is supported by
a fusible connection directly with the frame.
Subclass:
42
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Thermally-controlled devices adapted for use in
fire-extinguishing apparatus for resisting tension and
comprising a plurality of interengaging elements held in
normal position by a fusible substance and adapted to release
or fail upon an increase of temperature.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
49, Movable or Removable Closures, subclasses 1+.
126, Stoves and Furnaces, subclass 287.5, and
428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, subclass 608
for a metallic composite embodying interengaged fibers.
Subclass:
43
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Methods
practiced to prevent or extinguish fires.
Subclass:
44
This subclass is indented under subclass 43. Method, wherein
a plurality of components are mixed on site to produce a fire
extinguishing or fire preventing compound, said compound
being formed upstream or downstream of the discharge element,
or by separately applying the components.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 14+ for apparatus for mixing extinguishing
compounds.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
516, Colloid Systems and Wetting Agents; Subcombinations
Thereof; Processes of Making, Stabilizing, Breaking, or
Inhibiting, subclasses 1+ for continuous gas or vapor phase
colloid system (e.g., smoke, fog, aerosol, cloud, mist) or
agents for such systems or making or stabilizing such systems
or agents, subclasses 10+ for foam colloid systems or agents
for such systems or making or stabilizing such systems or
agents; in each instance, when generically claimed or when
there is no hierarchically superior provision in the USPC for
the specifically claimed art.
Subclass:
45
This subclass is indented under subclass 43. Methods,
practiced to prevent a flammable object from burning as a
consequence of being in the vicinity of an existing fire, or
to prevent the initial outbreak of fire.
Subclass:
46
This subclass is indented under subclass 43. Methods for
putting out a fire which has already started.
(1) Note. This subclass takes a process where the
extinguishant is introduced to the area surrounding the fire
or a subsurface of the matter on fire after which the
extinguishant seeks out the seat of the fire.
(2) Note. This subclass takes a process where the
extinguishing material is present at the fire but in not
active until it is acted upon by fire.
Subclass:
47
This subclass is indented under subclass 46. Method,
involving the projection of a fire extinguishing material
directly from its discharge element onto the seat of the
fire.
(1) Note. The extinguishing material must be of a nature to
extinguish a fire by itself.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
239, Fluid Sprinkling, Spraying, and Diffusing, subclasses 1+
for methods of spraying a fluid.
Subclass:
48
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising apparatus designed to separate a burning
area or a portion of a burning area from a second burnable
area to prevent burning interaction between the two areas.
(1) Note. The second area may include a person or article to
be protected, or it may simply be an extension of the area
which is on fire.
(2) Note. Apparatus included herein is in the form of a
solid or fluid cover or shield, e.g., nonfluid or gas.
Subclass:
49
This subclass is indented under subclass 48. Apparatus, which
separates a fire area from the atmosphere.
(1) Note. Apparatus placed in this subclass has the
capability of extinguishing the separated fire by smothering,
however a means may be included with the apparatus to
discharge an extinguishant onto the fire.
Subclass:
50
This subclass is indented under subclass 49. Apparatus, which
separates the fire from the atmosphere upon manipulation of
the means by an operator to accomplish the isolation.
(1) Note. The manipulation includes rolling, dragging,
wrapping, or beating.
(2) Note. This subclass includes extinguishers of the
blanket type which conform to the shape of the object to be
treated.
Subclass:
51
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus comprising means to support or protect an
extinguishant source and/or an outlet therefor.
Subclass:
52
This subclass is indented under subclass 51. Apparatus,
comprising fire extinguishing or preventing means mounted on
a structure designed to provide movement of the means
relative to the fire.
(1) Note. Apparatus herein includes (1) a mounting means
which is movable to a fire, or (2) a mounting means which
imparts movement to an extinguisher thereon during use
thereof.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 30+ for portable vessels.
subclasses 48+ for portable fire shields and fire fighter's
apparel.
Subclass:
53
This subclass is indented under subclass 52. Apparatus,
mounted on an aeronautical vehicle, e.g., a helicopter.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
244, Aeronautics, subclass 136 for aerial fire fighting
apparatus in combination with aircraft structure.
Subclass:
54
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter comprising means for preventing or minimizing damage
due to fire in or about a structure or device by treating the
fire condition, said means being particularly adapted for use
with that specifically named structure or device.
(1) Note. Fire extinguishers claimed in combination with
structure or apparatus classifiable elsewhere is found in the
class accepting that apparatus.
Subclass:
55
This subclass is indented under subclass 54. Apparatus,
especially adapted for extinguishing fire in or about a stove
on a railway car.
(1) Note. These extinguishers are usually set in operation
by an abnormal movement of the car, as by collision,
derailment, or overturning.
Subclass:
56
This subclass is indented under subclass 54. Apparatus,
having a device which operates in response to a sensed
condition relative to a fire in or about the particular
structure with which it is to be associated to control a
means which may extinguish a fire or prevent the spreading
thereof in or about said particular structure.
(1) Note. Conditions which may be sensed relative to a fire
may include heat, pressure, light, smoke, impact,
deceleration, etc.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
19 for valve which control the flow of fire extinguishing
fluid in a fire extinguishing system not associated with a
specific structure and wherein said valve is responsive to a
sensed condition.
subclasses 26+ for containers having an extinguishant
therein which are for general use and which will discharge
the contents thereof in response to a predetermined
condition.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
52, Static Structures (e.g., Buildings), appropriate
subclass, for condition responsive components not claimed
with fire extinguishing systems or for the purpose of fire
extinguishing. Note particularly subclass 1, 98, 168, and
232.
Subclass:
57
This subclass is indented under subclass 54. Apparatus in
which a fire extinguishing material is directly restrained
against discharge by a plug, support or other device which is
in contact with said material until said device is fused,
melted or deformed when a predetermined condition is sensed,
or in which such a plug, support, etc., operates similarly in
another cooperative relation with the extinguishing means.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
52, Static Structures (e.g., Buildings), subclass 232 for
thermally responsive ceiling structure not claimed as
cooperating with a fire extinguishing system.
Subclass:
58
This subclass is indented under subclass 56. Apparatus
wherein a fire extinguishing material is directly restrained
against discharge by a device in contact with said material
which fractures or breaks when a predetermined fire condition
is sensed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 26+ and 28, for a frangible container for fire
extinguishing material in a receptacle for general use.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
52, Static Structures (e.g., Buildings), subclass 98 for
frangible components not claimed as being for fire
extinguishing.
Subclass:
59
This subclass is indented under subclass 56. Apparatus having
a flexible elongated means extending into the area to be
protected, a sensing means in said elongated means which
senses the fire and releases the elongated means, causing a
fire extinguishing system to actuate.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
42 for fusible links, per se.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communications: Electrical, subclass 596 for electric
alarm systems having cable sensors.
Subclass:
60
This subclass is indented under subclass 56. Apparatus having
(1) means to sense a fire condition, (2) means to transmit a
signal from the sensing means in response to a fire sensed by
said sensing means and (3) means receiving said transmission
and responding to release material to extinguish the sensed
fire.
Subclass:
61
This subclass is indented under subclass 60. Apparatus, where
the signal transmitting means is an electrical circuit.
(1) Note. The line between this class and Class 340,
Communications: Electrical, is that Class 169, requires that
the sensor act directly upon the extinguishing systems;
systems wherein the sensor acts first on an alarm and then on
a fire extinguishing system are found in Class 340.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
340, Communication: Electrical, subclasses 577+ for
electrical flame alarms; subclasses 584+ for electrical
temperature alarms; and subclasses 628+ for electrical smoke
alarms.
Subclass:
62
This subclass is indented under subclass 54. Apparatus, for
extinguishing fires on or inside a conveyance for people
and/or articles; e.g., airplanes, ships, automobiles etc.
Subclass:
63
This subclass is indented under subclass 54. Apparatus for
extinguishing fires in or about devices which manipulate
moving picture film.
(1) Note. This subclass includes the combination of
nominally recited film handling means with a fire
extinguishing apparatus.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
352, Optics: Motion Pictures, for fire prevention and
isolation structure for film strips in combination with
motion picture apparatus structure.
Subclass:
64
This subclass is indented under subclass 54. Apparatus,
designed for use in extinguishing or in the prevention of
fires in a subterranean environment of solid natural
material.
(1) Note. This subclass includes apparatus for dusting the
walls of mines as a preventive measure.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
45 for methods of preventing mine fires and explosions.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
299, Mining or In Situ Disintegration of Hard Material,
subclass 1.05 for signaling or indicating means for fire
conditions as part of mine structure and subclass 12 for mine
safety methods.
Subclass:
65
This subclass is indented under subclass 54. Apparatus for
extinguishing or preventing fires in stoves or ovens used in
food preparation, and the area surrounding said stoves or
ovens.
Subclass:
66
This subclass is indented under subclass 54. Apparatus for
extinguishing or preventing fires in a surface-mounted
receptacle which may contain a supply of inflammable fluid.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
62 for extinguisher protecting fuel tank of vehicle.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
220, Receptacles, subclasses 88.1-89.4 for the prevention
of fire in oil tanks involving only tank structure without
treating the contents.
222, Dispensing, subclass 53, 54, 152 for fire prevention and
extinguishing means combined with oil dispensers.
422, Chemical Apparatus and Process Disinfecting,
Deodorizing, Preserving, or Sterilizing, subclasses 22+ for
use of a fluid blanket as preservative means other than fire
protection purposes.
Subclass:
67
This subclass is indented under subclass 66. Apparatus,
wherein the fire extinguishing means is designed for movement
to and/or assembly at the receptacle.
(1) Note. Apparatus classified here is external of a storage
receptacle tank, and is structurally independent of the
receptacle but it is designed especially for use with a
receptacle.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 52+ for mobile extinguishers designed for
general utility.
Subclass:
68
This subclass is indented under subclass 66. Apparatus,
having means to particularly distribute the extinguishing
material within the receptacle.
Subclass:
69
This subclass is indented under subclass 54. Apparatus for
extinguishing or preventing fires at the outlet of a
subterranean source of an inflammable fluid.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
166, Wells, subclass 75.11 especially subclasses 79.1 and
90.1 for well apparatus combined with fire extinguishers
where the fire extinguishing feature goes no further than a
mere cap or head, means for diverting flow from the well or
means for inserting a fluid into the well, or where more of
the well is claimed than cooperates with the fire
extinguishing means.
Subclass:
70
This subclass is indented under subclass 54. Apparatus,
having means to particularly distribute the extinguishing
material with respect to the fire to be extinguished and the
structure to be protected, or means enabling the extinguisher
to surpass obstacles encountered in reaching the fire.
Subclass:
71
This subclass is indented under subclass 30. Apparatus,
wherein a pressurized gas means is provided and means whereby
the pressurized gas may be applied to said agent to expel the
same from a container so that said agent may be applied to a
fire.
(1) Note. The pressurized gas may be stored ready for use or
it may be developed by a pump or other means.
(2) Note. The pressurized gas may be stored with the agent,
or it may be stored separately.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
222, Dispensing, subclasses 394+ for dispensers using fluid
pressure to cause discharge.
239, Fluid Sprinkling, Spraying, and Diffusing, subclass 307,
308 and 337+ for sprayers having supply holders and in which
the materials are discharged therefrom by the pressure of a
gas.
Subclass:
72
This subclass is indented under subclass 71. Apparatus,
wherein said container is provided with specific means
designed to insure that the agent will discharge from the
container in its entirety, regardless of the orientation of
the vessel when in use.
Subclass:
73
This subclass is indented under subclass 72. Apparatus,
having variable volume means provided to store agent within
said container whereby the volumetric capacity of the
variable volume means may be reduced substantially to zero
and thus insure discharge of the agent in its entirety.
(1) Note. The variable volume means may be a cylinder with a
piston movable therein or a collapsible wall chamber.
Subclass:
74
This subclass is indented under subclass 71. Apparatus,
further comprising an outlet from the vessel or a terminal
discharge element for said agent which imparts thereto
particular characteristics.
(1) Note. This subclass includes extinguishers whose outlet
is modified by the operator in order to release the
extinguishant.
Subclass:
75
This subclass is indented under subclass 71. Apparatus
further comprising means to avoid accidental discharge of the
agent from the container or excessive pressure build up in
said container, or means to indicate any abnormal condition
therein.
Subclass:
76
This subclass is indented under subclass 71. Apparatus having
means, such as an on-off valve or plural agent sources, which
allows the operator to discharge agent at will, more than
once with an extinguisher.
Subclass:
77
This subclass is indented under subclass 71. Apparatus for
containing and discharging a dry chemical agent.
Subclass:
78
This subclass is indented under subclass 71. Apparatus,
having a plurality of separately housed substances, which may
be caused to be mixed when desired, and thus caused to react
chemically to produce a gas with sufficient pressure to expel
the agent from the container.
Subclass:
79
This subclass is indented under subclass 78. Apparatus,
wherein at least one of the reactant housings is turned over
relative to a second reactant, thus releasing said reactant
for mixing with a second reactant in the container.
Subclass:
80
This subclass is indented under subclass 78. Apparatus
wherein the mixing is initiated by turning the container end
for end.
Subclass:
81
This subclass is indented under subclass 80. Apparatus
comprising an actuator which upon inversion of the container
destroys a means by which the substances had been prevented
from mixing, so that the substances may mix and produce the
pressurized gas necessary to expel the agent from the
container.
Subclass:
82
This subclass is indented under subclass 80. Apparatus
wherein the housing for at least one of the substances to be
mixed is provided with a closure therefor which will be
removed therefrom by gravitational force upon inversion of
said housing whereby the substances may be mixed to produce
the necessary gas pressure to expel the agent from the
container.
Subclass:
83
This subclass is indented under subclass 78. Apparatus,
wherein a reactant is stored in a container which must be
fractured to release said reactant to mix with a second
reactant to produce a fire extinguishant.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
81 for vessels having therein a reactant container which is
broken upon inversion of the vessel.
Subclass:
84
This subclass is indented under subclass 71. Apparatus having
a charge of combustible material contained therein which
produces the gas pressure when ignited and means available to
the operator for igniting the charge.
Subclass:
85
This subclass is indented under subclass 71. Apparatus
wherein the pressurizing gas used to expel the fire
extinguishing agent is stored in a container which is
separate from that in which the agent is stored.
Subclass:
86
This subclass is indented under subclass 85. Apparatus having
heat exchange or other means to prevent the temperature of
the gas, due to expansion as it passes through an orifice or
the like, from decreasing to the point where gas passing
therethrough will solidify.
Subclass:
87
This subclass is indented under subclass 85. Apparatus having
means whereby when the vessel is turned over the pressurized
gas may be released to expel the agent from the vessel.
(1) Note. The means releasing said pressurized gas may do so
by puncturing the pressurized gas container because of the
inversion thereof, or upon inversion thereof and the
application of a force upon said releasing means.
Subclass:
88
This subclass is indented under subclass 85. Apparatus
wherein the means for releasing the pressurizing gas has a
scissors grip, pistol-grip, or other squeeze type actuator,
or a lever-type actuator.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
89 for a discharge head on a container for agent stored
under pressure.
Subclass:
89
This subclass is indented under subclass 71. Apparatus
comprising a means on the container for the agent which has
both a valve for releasing the pressurized material and an
outlet communicating therewith for dispensing the released
material from the container.
Subclass:
90
This subclass is indented under subclass 37. Apparatus
further comprising a means for selectively terminating
discharge from the sprinkler head.
Subclass:
91
This subclass is indented under the class definition.
Apparatus not herein before provided for.
Information Products Division -- Contacts
Questions regarding this report should be directed to:
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Information Products Division
PK3- Suite 441
Washington, DC 20231
tel: (703) 306-2600
FAX: (703) 306-2737
email: oeip@uspto.gov
Last Modified: 6 October 2000