The world of fire safety is propelled to new heights with the development of a unique style of fire extinguisher specifically designed for use in space environments. This revolutionary technological advancement comes courtesy of a team of researchers at Japan’s Toyohashi University of Technology. The product, referred to as the Vacuum Extinguish Method (VEM), demonstrates a complete paradigm shift from traditional fire extinguishing methods by adopting a completely inverse operation.
The Vacuum Extinguish Method (VEM)
Instead of spraying extinguishing agents towards the source of the fire—a modus operandi standard with all common fire extinguishers—the VEM method involves the suction of the combustible products and the flame itself. This strategic harnessing of vacuum technology is what sets VEM apart from traditional fire extinguishing methods.
The process begins with the vacuum drawing in the fire and its combustion products. Following this initial suction, the collected flammable materials are securely stored within a vacuum container. This container’s function goes beyond mere storage, though. Its primary purpose is to isolate these hazardous materials, effectively preventing them from spreading any further.
Applicability in Special Environments
The Vacuum Extinguish Method (VEM) has shown substantial promise in tests conducted in special environments. One such environment includes locations that are highly enclosed.
Examples of such conditions include the interiors of submarines or spacecraft. Here, the risk of harmful combustion products—such as fume, particulate matters and toxic gas components—dispersing across the entire enclosed cabin can lead to severe, potentially fatal consequences. As such, the Vacuum Extinguish Method’s ability to contain and isolate these hazardous materials makes it an invaluable tool for managing fires within these vulnerable settings.
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Development Team | Researchers at Toyohashi University of Technology, Japan. |
| Product Name | Vacuum Extinguish Method (VEM) |
| Main Function | Suction of flames and combustion products into a vacuum container for isolated storage. |
| Key Benefit | Prevention of spread of harmful combustion products in highly enclosed environments. |
| Ideal Environments | Spacecrafts, submarines and other similar highly enclosed spaces. |
The Future of Fire Safety with VEM
The advent of the Vacuum Extinguish Method (VEM) could very well herald an exciting new era within the field of fire safety. Its potential applications are extensive and not just limited to highly enclosed environments such as spacecraft and submarines. As we envision a future where humans venture further into space, the need for effective fire management strategies increases. The Vacuum Extinguish Method (VEM) could be a step in that direction, providing effective containment and isolation of hazardous combustion materials to ensure the safety of astronauts and submariners alike.