Patent Publication Number: US-2019175965-A1

Title: System and method of reducing spread of wildfires

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This is a non-provisional utility application that claims priority to U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 62/597,263, entitled System and Method for Reducing Spread of Wildfires, filed Dec. 11, 2017; the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     Technical Field 
     The present disclosure relates to fire control, and more particularly, to a system and method of reducing the spread of fire and wildfires. 
     State of the Art 
     Fire and its varied uses are essential not only to day-to-day living, but also impact ecological systems around the globe. For example, the positive effects of fire include food preparation, heating, light, power, as well as stimulating growth and maintaining various environmental and ecological systems. 
     However, the negative effects of fire can include hazard to life and property, atmospheric pollution, and water contamination, among others. Indeed, fire has the potential to cause physical damage to structures, buildings, individuals, and other things through burning, not to mention the economic and environmental ramifications of such. 
     Accordingly, it would be advantageous to address the problems described above and develop an apparatus and method for reducing the spread of fire or, in particular, wildfire. 
     SUMMARY 
     The present disclosure relates to fire control, and more particularly, to a system and method of reducing the spread of fire and wildfires. 
     An aspect of the present disclosure includes a fire retardant delivery system comprising one or more reservoirs containing a fluid under pressure; distribution devices in fluidic communication with the reservoir or reservoirs; and sensors for sensing characteristics of a fire, wherein the fluid is delivered to ambient surroundings upon direction from the sensor or sensors. 
     Another aspect of the present disclosure includes a conduit between the reservoir of fluid and the distribution device, wherein the conduit elevates the distribution device above surrounding buildings and vegetation. 
     Another aspect of the present invention includes a fire retardant delivery system comprising: a plurality of reservoirs containing a fluid under pressure, wherein the fluid contains a fire retardant; one or more distribution devices in fluidic communication with each of the reservoirs; and a sensor for sensing characteristics of a fire, wherein each of the reservoirs is positioned in sequence along a predetermined path, and wherein the fluid is delivered to ambient surroundings from each of the distribution devices upon direction from the sensor. 
     Another aspect of the present invention includes wherein the path is a fire line, geographic boundary, or other desired route. 
     The foregoing and other features, advantages, and construction of the present disclosure will be more readily apparent and fully appreciated from the following more detailed description of the particular embodiments, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Some of the embodiments will be described in detail, with reference to the following figures, wherein like designations denote like members: 
         FIG. 1  is a side perspective view of an embodiment of an apparatus for reducing the spread of wildfire in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 2  is a top view of an embodiment of an apparatus for reducing the spread of wildfire in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 3  is a top view of an embodiment of a plurality of apparatuses, from  FIG. 2 , arranged and configured in a pattern and/or method of reducing the spread of wildfire in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 4  is a top view of an embodiment of a plurality of apparatuses, from  FIG. 2 , arranged and configured in a pattern and/or method of reducing the spread of wildfire in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 5  depicts a schematic view of a representative embodiment of the apparatus for reducing spread of wildfire, wherein the apparatus comprises multiple distribution devices; and 
         FIG. 6  depicts a schematic view of a representative embodiment of the apparatus for reducing spread of wildfire, wherein the apparatus comprises multiple distribution devices. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS 
     A detailed description of the hereinafter described embodiments of the disclosed apparatus and method are presented herein by way of exemplification and not limitation with reference to the Figures listed above. Although certain embodiments are shown and described in detail, it should be understood that various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the appended claims. The scope of the present disclosure will in no way be limited to the number of constituting components, the materials thereof, the shapes thereof, the relative arrangement thereof, etc., and are disclosed simply as an example of embodiments of the present disclosure. 
     As a preface to the detailed description, it should be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” include plural referents, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. 
     The drawings depict illustrative embodiments of a fire retardant delivery system  10 . These embodiments may each comprise various structural and functional components that complement one another to provide the unique functionality and performance of the system  10 , the structure and function of which will be described in greater detail herein. For example, embodiments of the system  10  may comprise one or more of a reservoir  12 , a conduit  18 , and a distribution device  20 , among other components to be described herein. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , embodiments of the system  10  may comprise a reservoir  12 . The reservoir  12  may be a tank, container, chamber, or other vessel capable of holding a fluid  22  therein. The reservoir  12  may be of a size, shape, and structural design consistent with holding gallons of fluid—hundreds, thousands, or even millions of gallons of fluid. The reservoir  12  may be designed such that it is self-contained, or, in other words, such that the fluid  22  may be inserted and contained within the reservoir  12 , even for an extended duration, until release of the fluid  22  from the reservoir  12  through a valve  16  situated on or in conjunction with the reservoir  12 . 
     Embodiments of the system may further comprise the reservoir  12  being fixed in place relative to a surface  8  upon, or by which, the reservoir  12  is supported. For example, the reservoir  12  may be set in, or on, a surface  8 , such as the ground, and left in place. Alternatively, the reservoir  12  may be moveable or transportable, in that the reservoir  12  may be moved periodically from time to time, as desired or needed, from one surface  8  to another, such as one ground location to another ground location. Further in the alternative, the reservoir  12  may be a completely mobile unit, such that the reservoir  12  is not fixed or positioned permanently at any one particular location, but is instead portable to any desired location accessible by transport. 
     Embodiments of the system  10  may further comprise the reservoir  12  being a pressurized container. For example, the fluid  22  within the reservoir  12  may be set at a predetermined pressurized level. In other words, as the fluid  22  is inserted into the reservoir  12 , the increasing volume of fluid  22 , and other fluids, such as gases, with respect to the volume of the reservoir  12 , may cause the pressure within the reservoir  12  to increase. The reservoir  12  may also be configured to be hermetically sealed so as to maintain the pressurized levels for an extended duration. However, as needed, according to circumstance and conditions, the pressure level of the fluid  22  may be adjustable, either at the time of filling the reservoir  12  or after the reservoir  12  has been filled, such as by a release valve (not depicted). Moreover, embodiments of the system  10  may comprise that once the reservoir  12  has ejected or emitted the fluid  22  contained therein, or once the pressure in the reservoir  12  has diminished to an unacceptable degree or level, the reservoir  12  may be recharged, refilled, or re-pressurized. 
     Embodiments of the system  10  may further comprise a conduit  18 . The conduit  18  may be a tube, channel, pipe, hose, cylinder, or other elongated hollow member that is capable of facilitating the transport or movement of the fluid  22  therethrough. The conduit  18  may have a first end  17  that can be releasably coupled to the reservoir  12 . The coupling of the conduit  18  to the reservoir  12  may be such that the fluid  22  may leave the reservoir  12 , at the desired time by operation of the valve  16 , travel into the first end  17 , and then through the conduit  18 . The conduit  18  may also have a second end  19  to which a distribution device  20  may be releasably coupled. The conduit  18  may have a length between the first end  17  and the second end  19 . The length of the conduit  18  may be any desired length that permits the effective flow of the fluid  22  from the reservoir  12 , to the distribution device  20 , and out of the distribution device  20 . For example, the conduit  18  may be configured to have a length and rigidity to position the distribution device  20  above any surrounding vegetation, such as trees, or buildings, such as commercial structures or residential dwellings. In this way, the spray of the fluid  22  from the disbursement device  20  over the perimeter P is not restricted or impeded. Moreover, the conduit  18  may be configured to extend or retract to position the distribution device  20 . In other words, the conduit  18  may be extended to increase the height of the distribution device  20  above the immediate surroundings or may be retracted to decrease the height of the distribution device  20  to allow a user to access, adjust repair, and/or replace the distribution device  20 . 
     Embodiments of the system  10  may comprise the distribution device  20 . The distribution device  20  may be a nozzle, spout, spigot, sprinkler, or other similar fluid distribution outlet that is capable of directing the flow of the fluid  22  out of the conduit  18  under pressure from the reservoir  12 . The distribution device  20  may be coupled to the conduit  18  at the second end  19 . In the alternative, a plurality of distribution devices  20  may be coupled to the conduit  18  at various positions along the length of the conduit  18 , such that the fluid  22  may exit at more than one exit point. The distribution device  20  may be configured to rotate, spin, or otherwise move in a rotary, circular, or 360-degree pattern about the axis of the conduit  18 , such that, as the distribution device  20  rotates, the fluid  22  may be dispersed substantially horizontally across the ground surface  8  on one or more sides of the reservoir  12 . 
     As depicted in  FIG. 2 , the system  10  may comprise the fluid  22  being dispersed from the distribution device  20  in a circular pattern, as viewed from a bird&#39;s eye view above the system  10 . The circular pattern of spray of the fluid  22  from the distribution device  20  can be achieved in one or more ways. For example, the distribution device  20  may spray the fluid  22  in a linear spray pattern that sequentially disperses the fluid  22  outwardly and evenly within the entire spray pattern perimeter P as the distribution device  20  rotates steadily about the conduit  18  between 0 and 360 degrees, inclusive, or in a 360-degree range of motion. The distribution device  20  may rotate in either direction D, clockwise or counterclockwise, left or right, or side to side, as indicated in  FIG. 2 . Alternatively, the distribution device  20  may spray the fluid  22  in a complete 360-degree spray pattern, such that the fluid  22  may be dispersed outwardly within the entire spray pattern perimeter P at the same time without rotation of the distribution device  20 . Further in the alternative, the distribution device  20  may spray the fluid  22  in a spray pattern shaped more than the linear spray pattern but less than a 360-degree spray pattern. Then, this spray pattern, such as a 90-degree wedge, can be rotated about the conduit  18  as the distribution device  20  rotates, such that the fluid  22  may be dispersed in this pattern (i.e., wedge) within the entire spray pattern perimeter P. The ability of the distribution device  20  to disperse the fluid  22  over a circular area within the perimeter P, provides that the system  10  may help protect buildings, individuals, or other items and objects  30  within the perimeter P from the spread of wildfire. In other words, the dispersion of the fluid  22  over the area defined within the perimeter P may serve to insulate, protect, defend, shield or otherwise deter the spread of wildfire into the perimeter P. 
     Embodiments of the system  10  may further comprise the distribution device  20  being controlled or set to focus the spray of fluid  22  on a specific target or area within the perimeter P. As such, the distribution device  20  may be rotated to a specific degree or angle, and thereafter fixed in place to deliver the desired spray pattern in the desired direction of spray. For example, the system  10  may be configured to rotate, and even aim, the distribution device  20  in the direction of one or more of the objects  30 , of  FIG. 2 , within the perimeter P to thereby deliver or disperse the fluid  22  in the direction of, and onto, the object  30  to help protect the object  30  from the spread of wildfire. 
     Embodiments of the system  10  may further comprise the radial distance R being adjustable either manually or automatically. For example, the distance R may be set and/or adjusted by the pressure levels within the reservoir  12 , by the valve  16 , or by the distribution device  20 . Moreover, the outer perimeter P may also have a size and shape defined by the spray of the fluid  22  from the distribution device  20 , such as, for example, a wedge pattern, a rectangular pattern, or the like. In other words, the spray pattern of the distribution device  20  may define the shape and size of the outer perimeter P of the spray area that the fluid  22  may reach. 
     Embodiments of the system  10  may further comprise the fluid  22 . The fluid  22  may be any liquid, or combination of liquids, capable of being contained in the reservoir  12 , dispersed through the conduit  18 , and dispersed from the distribution device  20  over the desired area of coverage. For example, the fluid  22  may be water or other similar liquid. Further in example, the fluid  22  may be a combination of water and fire-retardant substances, such as for example fire-retardant gels and powders, including powders that may be formulated to turn into a gel when mixed with water and may be ejected from nozzles. The product FIREICE® may be an example of such fire-retardant material. Embodiments of the system  10  may comprise the mixture of water and fire-retardant material/powder being stored in the reservoir  12  and used as the fluid  22 . For example, the mixture may be preloaded in the reservoir  12  prior to the reservoir  12  being transported to the desired location of operation. In the alternative, embodiments of the system  10  may comprise water alone being stored in the reservoir  12  and the fire-retardant material/powder being set near the reservoir  12  so that the material/powder may be mixed with the water as the water either passes through the conduit  18  or the distribution device  20 , such that the mixture of the water and the material/powder emerges from the distribution device  20  as the fluid  22  and gel mixture described herein. Accordingly, the fire-retardant properties of the fire-retardant substance in the fluid  22  may be dispersed over the entire area of the perimeter P defined by the spray pattern and rotation of the distribution device  20 . 
     Embodiments of the system  10  may further comprise a valve  16  being configured to cooperate with either, or both, of the reservoir  12  and the disbursement device  20  to restrict and permit the flow of the fluid  22  from the reservoir  12 , into the conduit  18 , and out of the disbursement device  20 . For example, the valve  16  may be operationally coupled to the reservoir  12 , such that the valve  16  may assist the reservoir  12  in releasing the fluid  22  therefrom. When the valve  16  is in a closed position, no fluid  22  flows into the conduit  18  or out of the disbursement device  20 . On the other hand, when the valve is operated to move to the open position, then the fluid  22  flows into the conduit  18  and out of the disbursement device  20 . In an alternative configuration, the valve  16  may be operationally coupled to the conduit  18  or disbursement device  20 , such that operation of the valve  16  may assist the reservoir  12 , the conduit  18 , and the disbursement device  20  in releasing the fluid  22  therefrom. For example, the valve  16  may be operationally coupled to the system  10  in the flow path of the fluid  22  between the reservoir  12  and the disbursement device  20 , such as in the conduit  18  or disbursement device  20 . Yet, regardless of the specific location of the valve  16 , when the valve  16  is in the closed position, no fluid  22  flows beyond the position of the valve  16  in the system  10 . On the other hand, when the valve  16  is operated to move from the closed position to the open position, then the fluid  22  flows from the reservoir  12 , through the conduit  18 , and out of the disbursement device  20 . The valve  16  may be positioned anywhere between the closed position and the open position to adjust the flow of the fluid  22  out of the disbursement device  20 . As such, the radial distance R of the perimeter P can be adjusted. In other words, the spray of the fluid  22  can be adjusted by the valve  16  to thereby adjust the size and shape of the perimeter P. The valve  16  may be operated manually or automatically, which will be described in greater detail herein. 
     Embodiments of the system  10  may further comprise a fluid flow device  15 , such as a pump or compressor, that is operationally coupled to the reservoir  12  to assist with the proper flow of fluid  22  from the reservoir  22 . The fluid flow device  15 , such as a pump, may be coupled to the reservoir  12  to ensure that the fluid  22  within the reservoir  12  exits (i.e., is pumped from) the reservoir  12 , once the valve  16  is open, under the proper pressure and flow velocity to ensure the desired radial distance R of the spray pattern emanating from the disbursement device  20 . In like manner, a fluid flow device  15 , such as a compressor, may be coupled to the reservoir  12  to ensure that the gas within the reservoir  12  maintains the proper pressure on the fluid  22  to expel or propel the fluid  22  from the reservoir  12 , once the valve  16  is open, and ensure the desired radial distance R of the spray pattern emanating from the disbursement device  20 . The fluid flow device  15  may be manually or automatically operated, which will be described in greater detail herein. 
     Embodiments of the system  10  may further comprise the system  10  being configured to operate manually. In other words, manual operation of the valve  16  may cause the fluid  22  to flow from the reservoir  12 , through the conduit  18 , and out of the disbursement device  20  to spread the fluid  22  over the area within the perimeter P, as described herein. 
     Embodiments of the system  10  may comprise a control unit  11 . The control unit  11  may control and communicate with associated control electronics  9  to govern and dictate the operational aspects of the system  10 , including, for example, the operation of the valve  16  and/or the fluid flow device  15 . For example, the control unit  11  may be a controller comprising a processor (CPU), circuit board, internal memory, software, control algorithms, inputs, outputs, and other mechanical and electrical components as needed to direct the operations of the system  10 . For example, the control unit  11  may be configured to measure the pressure of the fluid  22  and/or gas within the reservoir  12 , may be configured to measure the flow rate of the fluid  22  through the conduit  18  or the disbursement device  20 , and may be configured to monitor the rotational location and speed of the disbursement device  20 , among other features described herein. In other words, the control unit  11  may be configured in such a way that the features of the system  10  described herein are fully automated by the control unit  11 . Further, to perform these automated functions, the associated control electronics  9  may be utilized to observe, detect, sense, measure, and communicate operational characteristics of the system  10  and communicate with the control unit  11 . The associated control electronics  9  may comprise sensors, gauges, valves, regulators, transducers, solenoids, controllers, wireless communications, and the like for measuring and controlling gas and/or liquid pressure, quantity and flow through the reservoir  12 , the conduit  18 , the disbursement device  20 , among other important operational and control aspects of the system  10 . The control unit  11  may be configured to coordinate the operations of each component of the control electronics  9 . Each of the components of the control electronics  9  may be configured to also communicate directly with one or more corresponding components, as needed, to perform the desired operations of the system  10 . Further, each of the components of the control electronics  9  may be configured to communicate with the control unit  11 , as well as directly with one or more corresponding components, as needed, to perform the desired operations of the system  10 . 
     Embodiments of the system  10  may further comprise a power source  7 . The power source  7  may be configured to power the system  10 , or at least the electrical components of the system  10 . The power source  7  may be an electric power cord configured to electrically couple to an external power source, such as a generator or power station or power outlet, to power the system  10 . Embodiments of the system  10  may further comprise the power source  7  being a battery, a rechargeable battery, or some combination of both, wherein the batteries may be configured to power the system  10  and/or the electrical operations of the system  10 , such as the control unit  11  and the control electronics  9 . Embodiments of the system  10  may further comprise the power source  7  being solar panels, solar cells, and rechargeable batteries for storing any electricity generated by solar power, the solar power and/or stored solar power being configured to power the system  10  and/or the electrical operations of the system  10 . 
     Embodiments of the system  10  may further comprise a sensor  14 . The sensor  14  may be any sensor capable of measuring or otherwise sensing a characteristic of fire and/or wildfires, such as for example smoke, ash, and heat. The sensor  14  may be, for example, one of a smoke detector, a carbon monoxide detector, an ultraviolet detector, a near infrared (IR) array, IR, IR camera, ultra violet (UV)/IR, IR/IR flame detection, IR3 flame detection, visible sensors, open/close sensors, and video, such as webcams or closed-circuit television. The sensor(s)  14  may be configured to sense a characteristic of a fire or wildfire, and, once sensed, the sensor(s)  14  may communicate with an associated reservoir  12  and/or corresponding control unit  11  or valve  16  to direct the valve  16  to open and permit the flow of the fluid  22  out of the disbursement device  20  and over the area defined within the perimeter P. In this way, the fire retardant may be dispersed onto an area in which fire characteristics have been sensed. Or, in other words, the sensor(s)  14  may be configured to sense the presence of a fire and communicate with the reservoir  12 , the valve  16 , and/or the control unit  11  to permit the fluid  22  to be sprayed out and onto the fire to extinguish the fire, or at least attempt to prevent the further spread of the fire. The communication between the sensor(s)  14  and the reservoir  12 , the valve  16 , the control unit  11 , or the like may be a wired or wireless communication. 
     Embodiments of the system  10  may comprise the sensor(s)  14  being positioned on or near the reservoir  12  with which the sensor(s)  14  is to communicate. Positioning the sensor(s)  14  on or near the reservoir  12  provides that the sensor  14  can activate the spray of the fluid  22  from the reservoir  12  located where the fire is located. For example, a residence may have the system  10  positioned near or on its property. Once the sensor(s)  14  sense the presence of the fire, one or more of the sensors  14  may activate the spray of the fluid  22  from the system  10  to reduce the spread of fire or even extinguish the fire entirely. The sensor  14  may be coupled with a home alarm system or a home automation system, such that a residential owner may incorporate the system  10  within the owner&#39;s home alarm system or home automation system. The sensor(s)  14  may additionally be configured to add onto an existing home alarm system or home automation system. As such, the system  10  may be configured so that a homeowner may manually activate the system  10  by way of the home alarm system or home automation system, or, in the alternative, that someone who monitors the home alarm system or home automation system may activate the system  10  remotely, or, further in the alternative, the system  10  may be completely automated, as described herein. 
     Alternatively, embodiments of the system  10  may comprise the sensor(s)  14  being positioned remotely from the reservoir  12  with which the sensor(s)  14  is to communicate. In this way, the sensor(s)  14  can anticipate the spread of the fire and activate the reservoir  12  to disperse the fluid  22 , over the area defined by the perimeter P of the associated reservoir  12 , in anticipation of the fire to prevent or at least attempt to reduce the spread of the fire into the covered area. 
     Embodiments of the system  10  may comprise one or more sensor(s)  14  being configured to have a heat sensor  21 , an associated trigger/switch mechanism  23 , and a communication unit  25  operatively coupled to the trigger mechanism  23  so that the communication unit  25  can place the sensor  14  in wired or wireless communication with the control unit  11  when the trigger mechanism  23  is activated. For example, embodiments of the system  10  may comprise the sensor  14  having a housing body  27  configured to house at least the trigger mechanism  23  and the communication unit  25  therein. The housing body  27  may be a hollow body defined by a perimeter wall. The trigger mechanism  23  and the communication unit  25  may be positioned within the housing body  27  so as to be in operative communication with one another. For example, the trigger mechanism  23  may be configured to move, or slidably translate, within the housing body  27  with respect to the communication unit  25 . Alternatively, the communication unit  25  may be configured to move, or slidably translate, within the housing body  27  with respect to the trigger mechanism  23 . In certain embodiments, the trigger mechanism  23  may be a magnet that is positioned appropriately and cooperates with the communication unit  25  to form a closed magnetic circuit. Then, once the trigger mechanism  23  moves away from the communication unit  25 , or vice versa, the closed magnetic circuit is broken and the communication unit  25  may communicate in response thereto a wired or wireless signal to the associated control unit  11 . The trigger mechanism  23  and the communication unit  25  may cooperate with one another and be configured to form a reed sensor or reed switch. 
     The trigger mechanism  23 , or the communication unit  25 , may be configured to move, or otherwise slidably translate, in response to activation of the heat sensor  21 . The heat sensor  21  may be, for example, a fusible element, a portion of which melts, or a frangible glass bulb containing liquid which breaks, in response to a predetermined temperature. In other words, the sensor  14  may be configured to respond to or otherwise react to a specific predetermined elevated temperature that may be indicative of a wildfire. For example, once the wildfire produces significant enough heat to create a rise in temperature at or above that of the predetermined elevated temperature associated with or assigned to the fusible element of the heat sensor  21 , the fusible element will melt causing a seal to drop vertically causing one of the trigger mechanism  23  or the communication unit  25  within the housing  27  to slidably translate within the housing  27 , thus breaking the closed magnetic circuit between the trigger mechanism  23  and the communication unit  25  and causing the communication unit  25  to send a wired or wireless signal to the associated control unit  11 . 
     Once the control unit  11  receives the signal from the communications unit  25 , the control unit  11  may govern one or more of the valves  16  of the associated reservoirs  12  to open and start the flow of the fluid  22  from the system  10  to reduce the spread of fire or even extinguish the fire entirely. For example, the sensor(s)  14  may be configured at a first distance, such as a first radial distance, away from a to-be-protected structure, such as a building or house. The sensor  14  may therefore be configured to sense and activate in response to the presence of a wildfire, as herein described, send its signal to the control unit  11 , and the control unit  11  may determine to activate the valve  16  on a reservoir  12  located a second distance, such as a second radial distance, from the to-be-protected structure, the second radial distance being shorter than the first radial distance and the reservoir  12  being positioned somewhere between the sensor  14  positioned at the first distance and the to-be-protected structure. Also, the control unit  11  may be configured to receive the signal from one or more sensor(s)  14  positioned further away from the to-be-protected structure and activate one or more reservoirs  12  positioned between the sensor(s)  14  and the to-be-protected structure to spray the fluid  22  therefrom to defend against the spread of wildfire by applying a fire-resistant coating onto the surrounding vegetation, to thereby reduce the spread of fire or even extinguish the fire entirely. Indeed, depending on which signal the control unit  11  receives from which particular sensor  14 , the control unit  11  may be pre-programmed to activate a predetermined spray pattern or spray sequence or spray distance or spray duration. As such, the control unit  11  may be programmed to activate one or more reservoirs  12  to achieve these varied spray characteristics. Alternatively, the control unit  11  may be programmed to activate one reservoir  12  for each sensor  14  triggered by wildfire. In other words, any number of spray configurations and spray placements may be achieved by the sensor(s)  14  sensing the heat from the wildfire, triggering the communication unit  25 , and sending the requisite communication to the control unit  11  for activation of the desired reservoirs  12 . 
     Embodiments of the system  10  may comprise a plurality of systems  10 , or an array  100  of systems  10  in communication with one another or with a remote basestation  200 . The array  100  of systems  10  may comprise one or more sensors  14  in communication with one or more control units  11  or valves  16  of the associated reservoirs  12  of one or more systems  10 . In this way, each of the systems  10  may be capable of sensing a direction of travel of the fire and communicate this direction to a remote location, such as the basestation  200 , to another system  10 , or to the array  100  of systems  10 . The systems  10  may be arranged or positioned in a particular configuration to define an array  100  of systems  10 . The array  100  of systems  10  may be manually operated, or may additionally be automatic systems, as described herein, capable of communication with one another or with the base station  200 . The communication may be wired or wireless, depending on the circumstances. Accordingly, each of the systems  10  may be configured to wirelessly connect to a communications network, web server, or other internet-enabled devices, and/or the internet through WiFi, cellular modem, Bluetooth, or other similar wireless technology. Moreover, each of the systems  10  may be configured to communicate with one another or the basestation  200  through other known remote communication methods, such as radio, satellite, and the like. 
     With reference to  FIG. 3 , any number of the systems  10  may be arranged along a boundary or a border B, the border B being defined based on the intended use of the systems  10 . For example, the systems  10  may be arranged in the array  100  of systems  10  along a geographic border, such as a ridge, a waterway, a road, a property border, or electrical lines. The array  100  of systems  10  may be positioned at strategic points along the border B. For example, neighboring systems  10  may be made to create an overlap  44  of their respective spray patterns, wherein the respective areas defined by the perimeters P overlap to some degree. Neighboring systems  10  may also be made to create a contact point  46  between their respective spray patterns, wherein the respective areas defined by the neighboring perimeters P touch edges. Neighboring systems  10  may also be made to create a gap  48  between their respective spray patterns, wherein the respective areas defined by the perimeters P are spaced apart a certain distance from one another. Such gap  48  may permit passage of individuals or vehicles or the like, as needed. Arranging the array  100  of systems  10  along the border B may allow the array  100  of systems  10  to protect the border B from the spread of fire beyond the border B, as the case may be. 
     With reference to  FIG. 4 , any number of the systems  10  may be arranged along a determined path or line L in the array  100  of systems  10 . The line L may be a line or path determined by the circumstances of the fire to be addressed. For example, the systems  10  may be deployed in the array  100  of systems  10  along a fire line or other defined fire prevention path. The systems  10  may be deployed on the line L, along the line L for as far a distance as desired, and may be deployed several systems deep behind the line L. As depicted in  FIG. 4 , the systems  10  may be deployed such that the systems  10  are stacked behind the line L in opposition to a direction of travel of the fire F. The systems  10  may be set such that their perimeters P contact one another at a point (contact  46 ) or overlap (overlap  44 ). Alternatively, the systems  10  may be deployed such that the systems  10  create a saturation pattern  50  that does not leave any open space on the surface  8  that is not covered by some perimeter P and thereby some of the fluid  22 . 
     Also, whether arranged along the border B or the line L, the systems  10  and the array  100  of systems  10  may be configured to communicate with any of the systems  10  in the array  100  of systems  10  or with the basestation  200 . For example, the sensors  14  of the various systems  10  may communicate with basestation  200  to provide real-time data of the spread of fire or the activation of the various systems  10 . The systems  10  and the array  100  of systems  10  may be configured to be operable by the basestation  200  through remote communication, such as radio communication. Alternatively, some of the systems  10  in the array  100  may be manually operable, while others may be automated. For example, some of the systems  10  may be permanently fixed in a ground position and set for automatic or manual operation, whereas other systems  10  may be mobile and likewise set for automatic or manual operation. Using this flexibility in positional location (i.e., mobility of the transportable systems  10 ) may allow the systems  10  in the array  100  of systems  10  to be changed, altered, or amended to redefine the boundary B or the line L in real time based on the characteristics of the fire sensed by the sensor(s)  14  or the real time operation of any of the systems  10 . Thus, the reduction of the spread of the fire or the prevention of the fire can occur in real time. 
     In addition to the components of the system  10  described above, the system  10  can be modified in any suitable manner. Indeed, in some embodiments, instead of comprising a single distribution device  20  in fluidic communication with the reservoir  12 , any other suitable number of distribution devices  20  are in fluidic communication with the reservoir. In some cases, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more distribution devices  20  are in fluidic communication with a single reservoir  12 . By way of non-limiting illustration,  FIGS. 5 and 6  show some representative embodiments, in which a plurality of distribution devices  20  are in fluidic communication with the reservoir  12 . 
     Where multiple distribution devices  20  are in fluidic communication with a corresponding reservoir  12 , the distribution devices  20  can be disposed in any suitable location with respect to their corresponding reservoir  12 . In some embodiments, one or more distribution devices are configured to be coupled to one or more conduits  18  that extend above, below, to the side of, and/or in any other suitable location with respect to the reservoir  12 . By way of non-limiting illustration,  FIGS. 5 and 6  show some embodiments in which at least one distribution device  20  is disposed above its corresponding reservoir  12 . Additionally,  FIG. 5  shows that, in some embodiments, one or more distribution devices  20  (e.g., distribution device  40 ) is disposed (at least initially) below a top surface of the corresponding reservoir  12 . In some such embodiments, such a distribution device  40  can function much in any suitable manner, including, without limitation, by: being fixed in position (e.g., so as to not raise or lower upon activation), being able to pop-up to a set height upon activation, being able to telescope up to a set height upon activation, and/or otherwise functioning in any suitable manner. Indeed,  FIG. 5  shows that in some embodiments one or more distribution devices  40  are disposed within the ground  42  so as to have a fixed height and/or so as to raise to a set height upon activation. 
     In addition to the components of the system  10  described above, methods of using the system  10  are herein described. The method may comprise providing one or more fire retardant delivery systems  10  of the like described herein. The method may comprise arranging the system in a desired location. The method may comprise sensing a characteristic of a fire and enabling the system to activate based on the sensed characteristic. The method may comprise ejecting a fluid containing fire retardant in a pattern about the system. The method may comprise transporting or otherwise moving the system to a fire location and deploying one or more systems in an array of systems to collectively battle a fire or at least reduce the spread of fire. The method may comprise the systems communicating with one another or with a basestation. The method may comprise directing the operation of one or more systems in the array of systems from a remote location from the systems or the array of systems, such as by the basestation or other wired or wireless communication. The method may comprise applying the fluid to the area to be protected prior to the fire. The method may comprise applying the fluid to the area to be protected after the fire has been detected. The method may comprise applying the fluid to the area to be protected after the fire has been detected in the area to be protected. The method may comprise incorporating the operations of the system into a home alarm system or home automation system. The method may comprise dynamically changing or altering the array of systems based on the sensors sensing the characteristics of the fire to thereby dynamically fight or reduce the spread of the fire in real time. 
     The materials of construction of the system  10 , may be formed of any of many different types of materials or combinations thereof that can readily be formed into shaped objects provided that the components selected are consistent with the intended operation of fire retardant delivery systems of the type disclosed herein. For example, and not limited thereto, the components may be formed of: rubbers (synthetic and/or natural) and/or other like materials; glasses (such as fiberglass) carbon-fiber, aramid-fiber, any combination thereof, and/or other like materials; polymers such as thermoplastics (such as ABS, Fluoropolymers, Polyacetal, Polyamide; Polycarbonate, Polyethylene, Polysulfone, and/or the like), thermosets (such as Epoxy, Phenolic Resin, Polyimide, Polyurethane, Silicone, and/or the like), any combination thereof, and/or other like materials; composites and/or other like materials; metals, such as zinc, magnesium, titanium, copper, iron, steel, carbon steel, alloy steel, tool steel, stainless steel, aluminum, any combination thereof, and/or other like materials; alloys, such as aluminum alloy, titanium alloy, magnesium alloy, copper alloy, any combination thereof, and/or other like materials; any other suitable material; and/or any combination thereof. 
     Furthermore, the components defining the above-described system  10  may be purchased pre-manufactured or manufactured separately and then assembled together. However, any or all of the components may be manufactured simultaneously and integrally joined with one another. Manufacture of these components separately or simultaneously may involve extrusion, protrusion, vacuum forming, injection molding, blow molding, resin transfer molding, casting, forging, cold rolling, milling, drilling, reaming, turning, grinding, stamping, cutting, bending, welding, soldering, hardening, riveting, punching, plating, 3-D printing, and/or the like. If any of the components are manufactured separately, they may then be coupled with one another in any manner, such as with adhesive, a weld, a fastener (e.g. a bolt, a nut, a screw, a nail, a rivet, a pin, and/or the like), wiring, any combination thereof, and/or the like for example, depending on, among other considerations, the particular material forming the components. Other possible steps might include sand blasting, polishing, powder coating, zinc plating, anodizing, hard anodizing, and/or painting the components, for example. 
     While this disclosure has been described in conjunction with the specific embodiments outlined above, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, the preferred embodiments of the present disclosure as set forth above are intended to be illustrative, not limiting. Various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, as required by the following claims. The claims provide the scope of the coverage of the present disclosure and should not be limited to the specific examples provided herein.