Patent ID: 12226661

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

Referring to the accompanying Drawings, like structures and elements shown throughout the figures thereof shall be indicated with like reference numerals.

Wireless System Network for Managing the Supply, Delivery and Spray-Application of Environmentally-Clean Fire-Inhibiting Biochemical Liquid on Private and Public Property to Reduce the Risks of Damage and/or Destruction Caused by Wild Fires

FIG.4Ashows the wireless system network of the present invention1designed for managing the supply, delivery, and spray-application of environmentally-clean anti-fire (AF) biochemical liquid composition of the present invention, on private and public property to reduce the risks of damage and/or destruction caused by wild fires. This system network is described in Applicant's U.S. Pat. No. 10,653,904B2, et al incorporated herein by reference. As disclosed therein, the system network comprises a distribution of system components, namely: GPS-tracked fire inhibiting (or anti-fire) liquid spray ground vehicles2(e.g. all-terrain vehicles or ATVs), for spray applying liquid chemical fire inhibitor, formulated according to the present invention, to ground surfaces, brush surfaces, and the surfaces of other forms of organic combustible material on property; GPS-tracked anti-fire liquid spray air-based vehicles3, for applying fire inhibiting chemical liquid spray of the present invention (formulated as illustrated inFIGS.4A and4Band specified herein) from the air to ground surfaces, brush, bushes and other forms of organic material; GPS-tracked mobile anti-fire liquid back-pack spraying systems4(e.g. including wheel supported, and backpack-carried systems), for applying fire inhibiting chemical liquid spray to combustible ground surfaces, brush, bushes, decks, houses, buildings, and other forms of organic material and property surrounding houses; GPS-tracked/GSM-linked liquid spraying systems5, for applying fire inhibiting chemical liquid spray to combustible surfaces on private real property, buildings and surrounding areas, and further specified in the present Patent Specification; GPS-tracked/GSM-linked liquid spraying systems6, for applying fire inhibiting chemical liquid spray to combustible surfaces on public real property and buildings and surrounding properties; a GPS-indexed real-property (land) database system7for storing the GPS coordinates of the vertices and maps of all land parcels, including private property and building17and public property and building18, situated in every town, county and state in the region over which the system network1is used to manage wild fires as they may occur; a cellular phone, GSM, and SMS messaging systems and email servers, collectively16; and one or more data centers8for monitoring and managing GPS-tracking/GSM-linked liquid supply and spray systems, including web servers9A, application servers9B and database servers9C (e.g. RDBMS) operably connected to the TCP/IP infrastructure of the Internet10, and including a network database9C1, for monitoring and managing the system and network of GPS-tracking anti-fire liquid spraying systems and various functions supported by the command center19, including the management of wild fire suppression and the GPS-guided application fire inhibiting chemical liquid over public and private property, as will be described in greater technical detail hereinafter. As shown, each data center8also includes an SMS server9D and an email message server9E for communicating with registered users on the system network1who use a mobile computing device (e.g. an Apple® iPhone or iPad tablet)11with the mobile application12installed thereon and configured for the purposes described herein. Such communication services will include SMS/text, email and push-notification services known in the mobile communications arts.

As shown inFIG.1, the system network architecture shows many different kinds of users supported by mobile computing devices11running the mobile application12of the present invention, namely: the plurality of mobile computing devices11running the mobile application12, used by fire departments and firemen to access services supported by the system network1; the plurality of mobile computing systems11running mobile application12, used by insurance underwriters and agents to access services on the system network1; the plurality of mobile computing systems11running mobile application12, used by building architects and their firms to access the services supported by the system network1; the plurality of mobile client systems11(e.g. mobile computers such as iPad, and other Internet-enabled computing devices with graphics display capabilities, etc.) used by spray-project technicians and administrators, and running a native mobile application12supported by server-side modules, supporting client-side and server-side processes on the system network of the present invention; and a GPS-tracked anti-fire liquid spraying systems for spraying buildings and ground cover to provide protection and defense against wild-fires. These subsystems are further specified in detail in U.S. Pat. No. 10,653,904B2.

FIG.2shows an exemplary mobile computing device11deployed on the system network of the present invention. Such mobile computing systems support conventional wildfire alert and notification systems (e.g. CAL FIRE® wild fire notification system14), as well as the mobile fire inhibitor spraying management application12of the present invention, that is deployed as a component of the system network1. The features of mobile smartphone device11can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 8,631,358 incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Notably, new and improved the GPS-tracked/GSM-linked, sprinkler-based wildfire defense (fire inhibiting liquid) spraying systems5indicated in the system network ofFIG.1, and kits for constructing such systems, will be further specified in detail hereinafter in the present Patent Specification.

Specification of Environmentally-Clean Aqueous-Based Liquid Fire Inhibiting BioChemical Compositions and Formulations, and Methods of Making the Same at the Installation Site in Accordance with the Principles of the Present Invention

A primary object of the present invention is to provide new and improved environmentally-clean aqueous-based fire inhibiting biochemical solutions for use by homeowners around the world which demonstrate very good long-term fire inhibiting effects when being proactively applied to protect combustible surfaces against the threat of fire. In general, the novel fire inhibiting liquid biochemical compositions of the present invention comprise: (a) a dispersing agent in the form of a quantity of water, for dispersing metal ions dissolved in water; (b) a fire inhibiting agent in the form of at least one alkali metal salt of a nonpolymeric saturated carboxylic acid, for providing metal ions dispersed in the water when the at least one alkali metal salt is dissolved in the water; (c) a coalescing agent in the form of an organic compound containing three carboxylic acid groups (or salt/ester derivatives thereof), such as triethyl citrate, an ester of citric acid, for dispersing and coalescing the metal ions when the fire inhibiting liquid composition is applied to a surface to be protected against fire, while water molecules in the water evaporate during drying, and the metal ions cooperate to form potassium salt crystal structure on the surface; and (d) if appropriate, at least one colorant.

Useful alkali metal salts of nonpolymeric saturated carboxylic acids for inclusion in the compositions of the present invention preferably comprise: alkali metal salts of oxalic acid; alkali metal salts of gluconic acid; alkali metal salts of citric acid; and alkali metal salts of tartaric acid. Alkali metal salts of citric acid are particularly preferred, as will be further explained hereinafter.

Notably, while the efficacy of the alkali metal salts increases in the order of lithium, sodium, potassium, cesium and rubidium, the salts of sodium and salts of potassium are preferred for cost of manufacturing reasons. Potassium carboxylates are very particularly preferred, but tripotassium citrate monohydrate (TPC) is the preferred alkali metal salt for use in formulating the environmentally-clean fire inhibiting biochemical compositions of the present invention.

While it is understood that other alkali metal salts are available to practice the biochemical compositions of the present invention, it should be noted that the selection of tripotassium citrate as the preferred alkali metal salt, includes the follow considerations: (i) the atomic ratio of carbon to potassium (the metal) in the utilized alkali metal salt (i.e. tripotassium citrate); (ii) that tripotassium citrate is relatively stable at transport and operating temperatures; (iii) tripotassium citrate is expected to be fully dissociated to citrate and potassium when dissolved in water, and that the dissociation constant is not relevant for the potassium ions, while citric acid/citrate has three ionizable carboxylic acid groups, for which pKa values of 3.13, 4.76 and 6.4 at 25° C. are reliably reported the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) handbook; and (iv) that tripotassium citrate produces low carbon dioxide levels when dissolved in water.

Tripotassium citrate is an alkali metal salt of citric acid (a weak organic acid) that has the molecular formula C6H8O7. While citric acid occurs naturally in citrus fruit, in the world of biochemistry, citric acid is an intermediate in the celebrated “Citric Acid cycle, also known as the Krebs Cycle (and the Tricarboxylic Acid Cycle), which occurs in the metabolism of all aerobic organisms. The role that citric acid plays in the practice of the biochemical compositions of the present invention will be described in greater detail hereinafter.

Preferably, the water-soluble coalescing agent should have a melting point at least 32 F (0 C) or lower in temperature, and be soluble in water. Triethyl citrate (TEC) is a preferred coalescing agent when used in combination with tripotassium citrate (TPC) having excellent compatibility given that both chemical compounds are derived from citric acid.

In some applications, the use of colorants may be advantageous with or without opacifying assistants, to the fire inhibiting biochemical liquid compositions of the present invention. Opacifying assistants make the fire-retarding biochemical composition cloudy and prevent any interaction between the color of the added colorant used and the background color.

The concentration of the dye in the fire-retarding biochemical composition is preferably in the range from 0.005% to 10% by weight, more preferably in the range from 0.01% to 5% by weight and most preferably in the range from 0.015% to 2% by weight.

Of advantage are dyes, food dyes for example, which fade as the fire-retarding composition dries and gradually decompose or are otherwise easily removable, for example by flushing with water.

The fire inhibiting liquid biochemical compositions of the present invention are producible and prepared by mixing the components in specified amounts with water to produce the fire inhibiting composition. The order of mixing is discretionary. It is advantageous to produce aqueous preparations by mixing the components other than water, into water.

Specification of Preferred Embodiments of the Dry Fire Inhibiting Biochemical Compositions of Matter Assembled as a Fire Inhibiting Biochemical Composition Kit

for Use with Specified Quantities of Water at System Installation Site In the preferred embodiment of the fire inhibiting liquid biochemical composition of the present invention, the components are realized as follows: (a) the fire inhibiting agent is realized in the form of an alkali metal salt of a nonpolymeric saturated carboxylic acid, specifically, tripotassium citrate, for providing metal potassium ions to be dissolved and dispersed in a quantity of water (supplied at the time and site of system installation at the homeowner's property); (b) a coalescing agent realized the form of an organic compound containing three carboxylic acid groups (or salt/ester derivatives thereof), specifically triethyl citrate, an ester of citric acid, for dispersing and coalescing the metal potassium ions when the fire inhibiting liquid composition is applied to a surface to be protected against fire, and while water molecules in the water evaporate during drying, the metal potassium ions cooperate to form potassium citrate salt crystal structure on the treated surface.

Selecting Tripotassium Citrate (TCP) as a Preferred Fire Inhibiting Agent for Use in the Fire Inhibiting Biochemical Compositions of the Present Invention

In the preferred embodiments of the present invention, tripotassium citrate (TPC) is selected as active fire inhibiting chemical component in fire inhibiting biochemical composition. In dry form, TPC is known as tripotassium citrate monohydrate (C6H5K3O7·H2O) which is the common tribasic potassium salt of citric acid, also known as potassium citrate. It is produced by complete neutralization of citric acid with a high purity potassium source, and subsequent crystallization. Tripotassium citrate occurs as transparent crystals or a white, granular powder. It is an odorless substance with a cooling, salty taste. It is slightly deliquescent when exposed to moist air, freely soluble in water and almost insoluble in ethanol (96%).

Tripotassium citrate is a non-toxic, slightly alkaline salt with low reactivity. It is chemically stable if stored at ambient temperatures. In its monohydrate form, TPC is very hygroscopic and must be protected from exposure to humidity. Care should be taken not to expose tripotassium citrate monohydrate to high pressure during transport and storage as this may result in caking. Tripotassium citrate monohydrate is considered “GRAS” (Generally Recognized As Safe) by the United States Food and Drug Administration without restriction as to the quantity of use within good manufacturing practice. CAS Registry Number:[6100-05-6]. E-Number: E332.

Tripotassium citrate monohydrate (TPC) is a non-toxic, slightly alkaline salt with low reactivity. It is a hygroscopic and deliquescent material. It is chemically stable if stored at ambient temperatures. In its monohydrate form, it is very hygroscopic and must be protected from exposure to humidity. Its properties are:MonohydrateWhite granular powderCooling, salty taste profile, less bitter compared to other potassium saltsOdorlessVery soluble in waterPotassium content of 36%Slightly alkaline salt with low reactivityHygroscopicChemically and microbiologically stableFully biodegradableAllergen and GMO free

Jungbunzlauer (JBL), a leading Swiss manufacturer of biochemicals, manufactures and distributes TPC for food-grade, healthcare, pharmaceutical and over the counter (OTC) applications around the world. As disclosed in JBL's product documents, TPC is an organic mineral salt which is so safe to use around children and adults alike. Food scientists worldwide have added TPC to (i) baby/infant formula powder to improve the taste profile, (ii) pharmaceuticals/OTC products as a potassium source, and (iii) soft drinks as a soluble buffering salt for sodium-free pH control in beverages, improving stability of beverages during processing, heat treatment and storage.

Selecting Triethyl Citrate (TEC) as a Preferred Coalescing Agent with Surface Tension Reducing and Surfactant Properties for Use in the Fire Inhibiting Biochemical Compositions of the Present Invention

In the preferred illustrative embodiments of the present invention, the coalescing agent used in the fire inhibitor biochemical compositions of the present invention is realized as a food-grade additive component, namely, triethyl citrate (TEC) which functions as a coalescing agent with surface tension reducing properties and surfactant properties as well. Triethyl citrate belongs to the family of tricarboxylic acids (TCAs) and derivatives, organic compounds containing three carboxylic acid groups (or salt/ester derivatives thereof).

In the aqueous-based fire inhibiting liquid composition, the coalescing agent functions as temporary dispersing agent for dispersing the metal ions dissolved and disassociated in aqueous solution. As water molecules evaporate from a coating of the biochemical composition, typically spray/atomized applied to a surface to be protected from fire, the coalescing agent allows the formation of thin metal (e.g. potassium citrate) salt crystal structure/films at ambient response temperature conditions of coating application. The coalescent agent promotes rapid potassium salt crystalline structure/coating formation on combustible surfaces to be protected against wildfire, and have a hardness evolution that promotes durability against rain and ambient moisture, while apparently allowing vital oxygen and CO2 gas transport to occur, without causing detrimental effects to the vitality of living plant tissue surfaces sought to be protected against wildfire.

A relatively minor quantity of triethyl citrate (TEC) liquid is blended with a major quantity of TCP powder in specific quantities by weight and dissolved in a major quantity of water to produce a clear, completely-dissolved liquid biochemical formulation consisting of food-grade biochemicals mixed with water and having highly effective fire inhibiting properties, as proven by testing. The resulting aqueous biochemical solution remains stable without the formation of solids at expected operating temperatures (e.g. 34 F to 120 F).

Jungbunzlauer (JBL) also manufactures and distributes its CITROFOL® A1 branded bio-based citrate esters for food-grade, healthcare, pharmaceutical and over the counter (OTC) applications around the world. CITROFOL® A1 triethyl citrate (TEC) esters have an excellent toxicological and eco-toxicological profile, and provide good versatility and compatibility with the tripotassium citrate (TPC) component of the biochemical compositions of the present invention. CITROFOL® A1 branded citrate esters are particularly characterized by highly efficient solvation, low migration, and non-VOC (volatile organic compound) attributes. As an ester of citric acid, triethyl citrate is a colorless, odorless liquid which historically has found use as a food additive (E number E1505) to stabilize foams, especially as a whipping aid for egg whites.

Broadly described, the fire inhibiting biochemical liquid coatings of the present invention consist of an aqueous dispersion medium such as water which carries dissolved metal salt cations that eventually form a thin metal salt crystalline structure layer on the surface substrate to be protected from ignition of fire. The aqueous dispersion medium may be an organic solvent, although the preferred option is water when practicing the present invention. After the application of a coating onto the combustible surface to be protected against fire ignition and flame spread and smoke development, the aqueous dispersion medium evaporates, causing the metal salt (i.e. potassium salt) cations to draw together. When these metal salt particles come into contact, the coalescing agent, triethyl citrate, takes effect, uniformly dispersing the same while reducing liquid surface tension, and giving rise to the formation of a relatively homogeneous metal salt crystalline structure layer over the surface. In practice, this interaction is more complex and is influenced by various factors, in particular, the molecular interaction of the potassium salt cations and the coalescing agent, triethyl citrate, as the water molecules are evaporating during the drying process.

While offering some surface tension reducing effects, the main function of the coalescing agent in the biochemical composition of the present invention is to ensure a relatively uniform and optimal formation of the salt crystalline structure layers on the combustible surfaces to be protected, as well as desired mechanical performance (e.g. offering scrub resistance and crystal coating hardness) and aesthetic values (e.g. gloss and haze effects).

The fact that CITROFOL® A1 triethyl citrate (TEC) esters are bio-based, odorless, biodegradable, and label-free, represents a great advantage over most other coalescing agents, and fully satisfies the toxicological and environmental safety requirements desired when practicing the biochemical compositions of the present invention.

In the preferred embodiments of the present invention, the use of CITROFOL® A1 triethyl citrate (TEC) esters with tripotassium citrate monohydrate (TPC) dissolved in water as a dispersion solvent, produce fire inhibiting biochemical formulations that demonstrate excellent adhesion, gloss, and hardness properties. The chemical and colloidal nature of potassium salt ions (which are mineral salt dispersions) present in TPC dissolved in water, is highly compatible with the CITROFOL® A1 triethyl citrate (TEC) ester used as the coalescing agent in the preferred embodiments of the present invention. Also, CITROFOL® A1 triethyl citrate esters are REACH registered and are safe, if not ideal, for use in environmentally sensitive products such as fire and wildfire inhibitors which must not adversely impact human, animal and plant life, ecological systems, or the natural environment.

Specification of Preferred Formulations for the Fire Inhibiting Biochemical Compositions of Matter According to the Present Invention

Example #1: Dry-Powder Fire Inhibiting Biochemical Composition (Made on Site)

FIG.4Aillustrates the primary components of a first fire inhibiting biochemical composition kit of the present invention, consisting of dry tripotassium citrate (TPC) and triethyl citrate (TEC) components for mixing with a predetermined quantity of water functioning as a solvent, carrier, and dispersant, to make up a predetermined quantity of environmentally-clean liquid fire inhibiting biochemical composition for proactively protecting wood products.

Example 1: Schematically Illustrated inFIG.4A: A fire-extinguishing and/or fire-retarding biochemical composition was produced by blending the following components, in amounts proportional to the formulation comprising: 0.05 pounds by weight of triethyl citrate as coalescing agent, (20.3 milliliters by volume); 5.2 pounds by weight of tripotassium citrate (64 fluid ounces by volume); packaging the blended components together in a container or package for mixing with 4.4 pounds by weight of water (64 fluid ounces by volume), to produce a resultant solution of total weight of 9.61 pounds having 128 ounces or 1 gallon of volume. A primary advantage of this dry powder embodiment of the present invention is achieving significantly reduced shipping costs for the finished goods, because of the significant reduction in weight of finished goods achieved by eliminating the weight of water from the formulation prior to shipping. Specifically, a reduction in weight of 416 lbs. is for the 50-gallon storage tank, and a reduction in weight of 833 lbs. is achieved for a 100-gallon storage tank, because each US gallon of water weighs approximately 8.33 lbs.

In the preferred embodiment, the WFDS kit of the present invention is equipped with fire inhibitor storage tanks having either a 50 or 100 gallon capacity, to support different size property sizes, and will be shipped from the factory containing all Citrotech® fire inhibitor constituents based on weights and measures required to support ASTM fire testing accreditations along with UL GreenGuard Gold, LENS, California Aquatic Testing, EPA Safer Choice Labeling, and meeting Prop 65, but only when the proper quantity of water has been added (indicated by the water fill line) and blended properly based on manufacturer's instructions for filling the storage tank.

Example #2: Liquid-Based Fire Inhibiting Biochemical Composition (Made at Factory)

In this alternative embodiment shown inFIG.4B, illustrates the primary components of a first environmentally-clean aqueous-based fire inhibiting liquid biochemical composition of the present invention are mixed at the factory under strict quality control, and consist of tripotassium citrate (TPC) and triethyl citrate (TEC) formulated with water functioning as a solvent, carrier, and dispersant in the biochemical composition.

Example 2: A fire-extinguishing and/or fire-retarding biochemical composition was produced by stirring the components into water. The composition comprising: 0.05 pounds by weight of triethyl citrate as coalescing agent, (20.3 milliliters by volume); 5.2 pounds by weight of tripotassium citrate (64 fluid ounces by volume); and 4.4 pounds by weight of water (64 fluid ounces by volume), to produce a resultant solution of total weight of 9.61 pounds having 128 ounces or 1 gallon of volume. A primary disadvantage of this embodiment of the invention is the cost of the finished goods, weighing in at least 8.4 lbs. per gallon of water used, which contributes significantly to the cost of shipping.

Preferred Weights Percentages of the Components of the Fire Inhibiting Biochemical Formulation of the Present Invention

In the biochemical compositions of the present invention The ratio of the ester of citrate (e.g. triethyl citrate) to the alkali metal salt of a nonpolymeric carboxylic acid (e.g. tripotassium citrate) may be major amount between 1:100: to 1:1000 and is typically in the range from 1:1 to 1:100, preferably in the range from 1:2 to 1:50, more preferably in the range from 1:4 to 1:25 and most preferably in the range from 1:8 to 1:15.

A preferred biochemical composition according to the present invention comprises: a major amount from 1% to 65% by weight, preferably from 20% to 50% by weight and more preferably from 30% to 55% by weight, of at least one alkali metal salt of a nonpolymeric saturated carboxylic acid (e.g. tripotassium citrate monohydrate or TPC); and minor amount from 0.08% to 5% by weight, preferably from 0.5% to 2% by weight and more preferably from 0.1% to 1.0% by weight, of triethyl citrate (an ester of citrate acid); wherein the sum by % weight of the components (a) and (b) should not exceed 100% by weight.

In a preferred embodiment, the fire inhibiting composition further comprises water. The water content is present in a major amount and is typically not less than 30% by weight, preferably not less than 40% by weight, more preferably not less than 50% by weight and most preferably not less than 60% by weight and preferably not more than 60% by weight and more preferably not more than 70% by weight, all based on the fire inhibiting biochemical composition.

The viscosity of the aqueous preparation is preferably at least 5 [mPas](millipascal-seconds, in SI units, defined as the internal friction of a liquid to the application of pressure or shearing stress determined using a rotary viscometer), and preferably not more than 50 [mPas], or 50 centipois) [cps], for most applications.

Physical Examination and Fire-Performance Testing of Thin Potassium Salt Crystalline Coatings Formed Using the Biochemical Compositions and Methods and Apparatus of the Present Invention

One method of viewing the resulting potassium salt crystal structures formed upon a surface substrate to be protected against fire, as illustrated inFIG.5A, would be by using atomic force microscope to form atomic force microscopy (AFM) images of the biochemical coatings applied in accordance with the principles of the present invention. Another method of viewing the resulting potassium salt crystal structures would be to use a scanning electron microscope to form scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images. Expectedly, using either instrument, such images of potassium salt crystal structures formed using a greater wt. % of coalescent agent (e.g. triethyl citrate dissolved in water with tripotassium citrate) will show that the coalescent agent resulted in metal salt crystal structures that are more coalesced and smoother, and demonstrating higher hardness evolution and better water repulsion, than when the potassium salt crystal structures are formed using a lower wt. % coalescent agent in the aqueous-based fire inhibiting liquid composition.

FIG.5Aillustrates the primary steps involved during the formation of tripotassium citrate (potassium) salt crystalline structure coatings on spray treated surfaces to be proactively protected against ignition and flame spread of incident fire.

At Step A, a spray nozzle is used to spray a liquid coating of a biochemical composition of the present invention, and once applied, the water molecules being to evaporate at a rate determined by ambient temperature and wind currents, if any. When the minimum film formation temperature (MFT) is reached for the biochemical composition, the potassium cations can inter diffuse within the triethyl citrate (TEC) coalescent agent and water molecule matrix that is supported on the surface that has been sprayed and to be proactively treated with fire inhibiting properties by virtue of a thin film deposition of tripotassium salt crystalline structure, modeled and illustrated inFIGS.7B and7C.

At Step B, potassium cations diffuse and the TPC crystalline structure deforms. During the coalescence of potassium cations, interparticle potassium cation diffusion (PCD) occurs within the TEC coalescing agent to produce a semi-homogenous tripotassium citrate salt crystalline structure.

At Step C, coalescence occurs to form the TPC salt crystalline structure. The mechanical properties of tripotassium citrate crystalline structures are highly dependent on the extent of PCD within the TEC coalescent agent.

Upon complete evaporation of water molecules from the biochemical liquid coating, the resulting fire inhibiting coating that is believed to be formed on the sprayed and dried surface comprises a thin film of tripotassium citrate salt crystalline structures formed on the structure, with substantially no water molecules present. The nature and character of such tripotassium citrate salt crystalline structures are believed to be reflected in models provided inFIGS.5and5C, which were first reported in 2016 in a published research paper by Alagappa Rammahon and James A. Kaduk, titled “Crystal Structure of Anhydrous Tripotassium Citrate From Laboratory X-Ray Diffraction Data and DFT Comparison” cited in ACTA CRYSTL (2016) Vol. E72, Pages 1159-1162, and published by Crystallographic Communications.

To determine and confirm that the fire inhibiting liquid compositions of the present invention produce potassium citrate salt crystalline structures on treated surfaces that have attained certain standards of fire inhibiting protection, it is necessary to test such treated surface specimens according to specific fire protection standards. In the USA, ASTM E84 Flame Spread and Smoke Development Testing can be used to test how well surfaces made of wood, cellulose and other combustible materials perform during E84 testing, and then compared against industry benchmarks. The environmentally-clean fire inhibiting chemical liquid composition disclosed herein is currently being tested according to ASTM E84 testing standards and procedures, and these ASTM tests have shown that fire-protected surfaces made of Douglas Fir (DF) demonstrate Flame Spread Indices and Smoke Development Index to qualify for Class-A fire protected certification, when treated by the fire inhibiting biochemical composition of the present invention disclosed and taught herein.

Specification of Wireless Remotely-Activatable Sprinkler-Based Wildfire Defense Fire Inhibitor Spraying System of the Present Invention

FIG.6shows a generalized wireless remotely-activatable sprinkler-based wildfire defense fire inhibitor spraying system (WFDS) of the present invention50, comprising the following components contained in WFDS kit20, namely: (i) a wildfire ember detection module2shown in FIGS.3E1and3E2for mounting on the top of a building, pole or tree to automatically detect the presence of a wildfire (i.e. via automated wildfire ember and/or smoke detection) well before its arrival many miles away, and sensing a SMS-spray-triggering signal40to the wireless remotely-activatable sprinkler-based wildfire defense fire inhibitor spraying system of the present invention20operate the automated spraying of Citrotech® liquid fire inhibitor35all over the property to be protected from fire ignition and/or flame spread by an incident wildfire; (ii) a plastic, fiberglass or metallic storage tank21shown inFIG.3Ahaving a 50 or 100 US gallon liquid storage capacity, for storage of dry powder fire inhibitor formulation29loaded at the factory for mixing and blending with a specified amount of water that is added to the storage tank21at the time of installation and setup according to the chemical formulation of the present invention; (iii) a 4G GSM GPS sensor30shown in FIGS.3D1and3D2for mounting to the storage tank21for monitoring the GPS location thereof using 4G GSM digital cellular communications (e.g. AT&T); (iv) an electric-motor (120V/20-30A) fluid hydraulic pump22shown inFIG.3A, operably connected to the storage tank21and a supply of pressurized water at installation location via a valve assembly25having first and second (flow directing) positions; (v) a Lithium-battery backup power supply system (e.g. EcoFlow® River 2 Pro Portable Power Station—768 Wh capacity and 800 W output)23shown inFIGS.311and312, provided with photovoltaic (PV) recharging panel for recharging the lithium-ion battery23while collecting sunlight with the PV solar panel as solar conditions allow, and 120 V line input plug for connection to a local source of electrical power, for supplying electrical power to the electric pump22; (vi) at least 4 to 6 sprinkler spray heads28shown inFIG.3Eprovided with conventional roof/pole mounting brackets, for spraying the Citrotech® liquid fire inhibitor35in the storage tank, all over the target property36where needed for proactive wildfire protection; heat-resistant PVC or PET piping26shown inFIG.3H, for forming the necessary fluid pumping circuits passing through the electric pump22to operate the sprinkler sprayheads28under adequate hydraulic pressure during spraying operations, and thus support sufficient flow rates of Citrotech® fire inhibiting chemical liquid35, determined in a manner well known in the fluid hydraulic arts; (vii) a 4G GSM/GPRS transceiver and the remote power control switch (e.g. 4G GSM Dual Channel Remote Switch Controller with SMS Command Remote Board with Relay Output and GSM CTL-4G Relay Control Box by Shanghai Wafer Microeletronics Co., Ltd)24shown in FIGS.3C1and3C2for remotely controlling electrical power supplied to the electric-motor hydraulic pump22via the 4G GSM remote control power switch24, automatically triggered when receiving an SMS trigger message/signal40from the smartphone11operated by a homeowner and/or authorized contractor or other personnel; an optional electrically-powered temperature-controlled thermal blanket30for surrounding the storage tank21, and associated controller32A for maintaining the temperature of the chemical liquid in the storage tank21in extreme temperature climates shown inFIG.3J, or electrically-powered temperature-controlled immersible heater33A for maintaining the temperature of the chemical liquid in the storage tank21below freezing temperatures in extreme climates shown in FIGS.3K1and3K2.

Preferably, the GPRS/GSM transceiver24shown in FIGS.3C1and3C2is suitably adapted for transmitting and receiving digital data packets using GPRS and GSM communication protocols, over the network, to support a suite of digital communication services and protocols specified herein. Also, a suite of communication services and protocols (e.g. email, SMS alert, PUSH protocol, XML, PDMS, and CALL alert) are supported by GSM for sending and receiving messages. Also, preferably, the electronic wildfire ember and smoke detection module27shown in FIGS.3F1and3F2, supports 360 degrees of sensing and associated field of views (FOVs), and in wireless communication with the 4G GSM digital cellular communication network10.

FIG.3Jshows the two-way flow valve assembly25that is used in the illustrative embodiment to control (i) the flow of water from a water source37into the electric pump22when arranged in its first flow position during sprinkler sprayhead testing operations, and (ii) the flow of Citrotech® liquid fire inhibitor35from the storage tank21into the electric pump22when arranged in its second flow position, and the system is configured for fire inhibitor spraying operations on the property.

In some application environments, ambient temperatures on the property parcel being defended against wildfire may fall below freezing, and in such environments, it will be wise if not necessary to adapt the wildfire defense spraying system to prevent freezing of the liquid fire inhibitor in its storage tank.FIGS.3Kand3L1and3L2illustrate two different options for controllably heating the liquid fire inhibitor in the storage tank21and prevent freezing, and system malfunction, prior to spraying operations are completed on the parcel of property.

FIG.3Kshows an electrically-powered temperature-controlled immersible heating system31for immersion in the chemical liquid stored in the storage tank21of the wildfire defense spraying system of the present invention50, when the system is constructed from the kit of system components shown inFIG.3. The purpose of the heating system is to controllably heat the liquid fire inhibitor35in the storage tank21using temperature sensor integrated in heating element33A and controller33C, as required to prevent freezing and malfunction of the system. Power plug34E can be directly plugged into a power supply socket23A supported on the lithium battery power supply unit23when powered from 120V AC power service at the installation site (e.g. home).

FIGS.3L1and3L2show an electrically-powered temperature-controlled heating blanket32adapted for wrapping about the storage tank21used in the sprinkler-based wildfire defense property spraying system of the present invention50, when constructed from the kit of system components shown inFIG.3. The electrically-powered temperature-controller32A is designed for use with the heating blanket32shown in FIG.3L1, supplying electrical power to the heating elements within the blanket, and monitoring the temperature of the liquid fire inhibitor35with a sensor33B inserted in the storage tank21, as required to prevent freezing thereof and system malfunction. Power plug33C can be directly plugged into a power supply socket23A supported on the lithium battery power supply unit23when powered from 120V AC power service at the installation site (e.g. home).

Specification of the Wireless 4G GSM GPS-Tracked Wildfire Ember and Smoke Detector Used in the Wildfire Defense Spraying System of the Present Invention

FIG.3F1shows the wireless 4G GSM GPS-tracked wildfire ember and smoke detection27for use as an auxiliary sensor in communication with the wildfire defense spraying systems of the present invention50. Each wireless GPS-tracked wildfire ember detection module27deployed on the 4G GSM digital cellular network10comprises: a fire-protective housing cover27A; and various sensors and signal and data processing and storage components arranged and configured about a microprocessor and flash memory (i.e. control subsystem) include: one or more passive infra-red (PIR) thermal-imaging sensors connected together with suitable IR optics to project IR signal reception field of view (FOV) before the IR receiving array27B; multiple pyrometric sensors27C for detecting the spectral radiation of burning, organic substances such as wood, natural gas, gasoline and various plastics; a GPS antenna27D; a GPS signal receiver; GSM antenna; GSM radio transceiver an Xbee antenna; an Xbee radio transceiver; a voltage regulator; an external power connector; a charge controller; a battery; thermistors; a power switch; external and internal temperature sensors; power and status indicator LEDs; programming ports; a digital/video camera27G; other environment sensors adapted for collecting and assessing intelligence, in accordance with the spirit of the present invention; and mounting base27E for mounting on a support bracket that can be affixed to a pole, tree, or building as the case may suggest or require. Alternatively, the wildfire detection module27, and supporting wireless wildfire intelligence network, may be realized using the technical disclosure of U.S. Pat. No. 8,907,799, incorporated herein by reference. However, the present invention should not be limited by such prior art teachings.

Preferably, the optical bandwidth of the IR sensing arrays27B used in the thermal sensors will be adequate to perform 360 degrees thermal-activity analysis operations, and automated detection of wildfire and wildfire embers. Specifically, thermal sensing in the range of the sensor can be like the array sensors installed in forward-looking infrared (FLIR) cameras, as well as those of other thermal imaging cameras, use detection of infrared radiation, typically emitted from a heat source (thermal radiation) such as fire, to create an image assembled for video output and other image processing operations to generate signals for use in early fire detection and elimination system of the present invention.

The pyroelectric detectors27C detect the typical spectral radiation of burning, organic substances such as wood, natural gas, gasoline, and various plastics. To distinguish a flame from the sun or other intense light source such as light emissions from arc welding, and thus exclude a false alarm, the following independent criteria are considered: a typical flame has a flicker frequency of (1 . . . 5) Hz; a hydrocarbon flame produces the combustion gases carbon monoxide (CO) and carbon dioxide (CO2); and in addition, burning produces water which can also be detected in the infrared range. Each pyroelectric detector27C is an infrared sensitive optoelectronic component specifically used for detecting electromagnetic radiation in a wavelength range from (2 to 14) μm.

Each system50will use a GPS referencing system available in the USA and elsewhere, supporting transmission of GPS signals from a constellation of satellites to the Earth's surface, so that local GPS receivers within the GPS sensor30located on each Citrotech® containing storage tank21, and also each remote wildfire ember and smoke detector27, will receive the GPS signals and compute locally GPS coordinates indicating the location of the networked device within the GPS referencing system. This GPS location information is then automatically transmitted to a central database server12using 4G GSM digital cellular communications, in the preferred embodiment. By managing the GPS location of storage tanks21, the manufacturer of Citrotech® fire inhibitor can continuously track and map the location of its fire inhibiting chemical liquid around the globe, in relation to the current location of active wildfires, and forecasted risk of wildfire, as part of its supply chain, inventory, and customer service management operations around the world.

When practicing the remote wildfire sensor of the present invention27, any low power wireless networking protocol of sufficient bandwidth can be used. However, in the preferred embodiment, its 4G GSM digital cellular transceiver circuit will be used to send SMS-based triggering signals40directly to its linked wildfire defense spraying system of the present invention20. Such SMS-based triggering signals40will activate its 4G GSM remote power control switch24, energize the electric pump22, and spray Citrotech® liquid fire inhibitor35all over the property36to provide the proactive protection it requires in the presence of a wildfire and its flying embers41. Such 4G GSM signaling40can support SMS between the wireless ember and smoke detector27, and the one or more linked wildfire defense spraying system(s)20that the automated ember detector27might be ordered to serve in any given application.

In the illustrative embodiment, the wildfire ember detection system27supports a computing platform, network-connectivity (i.e. IP Address), and is provided with native application software installed on the system as client application software, designed to communicate over the system network and cooperate with application server software running on the application servers of the system network, thereby fully enabling the functions and services supported by the system, as described above. In the illustrative embodiment, a wireless mess network may be implemented using conventional IEEE 802.15.4-based networking technologies to interconnect these wireless subsystems into subnetworks and connect these subnetworks to the internet infrastructure of the system of the present invention. However, such wireless 4G GSM wildfire ember and smoke sensor27can be used alone with at least one wildfire defense spraying system50, in which case SMS messaging40transmitted to its host WFD spraying system50can automatically trigger the 4G GSM controlled spraying system20to spray all the Citrotech® liquid fire inhibitor35in its storage tank21, all over the property36prior to wildfire arrival for proactive wildfire defense.

Specification of the Method of Assembling, Installing and Operating the Sprinkler-Based Wildfire Defense Fire Inhibitor Spraying System of the Present Invention

FIGS.7A,7B and7Cdescribe the steps to be undertaken when practicing the preferred method of assembling the components contained in the kit shown inFIG.3, and thereby installing and operating the sprinkler-based wildfire defense fire inhibitor spraying system of the present invention50on a homeowner's property parcel36, making the kit20and method most suitable for do-it-yourself (DYI) home-owner and contractor-assisted installations alike. Typically, it is expected that most installations of the system50using the kit of the present invention will requiring between 3-6 hours, following system installation and operating instructions32based on the present Patent Specification.

As indicated at Block A inFIG.7A, the first step involves delivering the Home Wildfire Defense Sprinkler/Spray System (WFDS) Kit20to the geographical location where the WFD System50is to be installed and operated.

As indicated at Block B inFIG.7A, the second step involves surveying the property36to be defended by spraying fire inhibiting liquid chemistry over combustible surfaces of building and property using a system of sprinklers mounted to building, mounted above property on poles or brackets, and/or from underground installed sprinkler heads as case may be required or desired.

As indicated at Block C inFIG.7A, the third step involves determining the physical placement location of sprinkler sprayheads28to ensure complete spray coverage over and about building structure to be protected by fire inhibitor when sprayed by the installed stationary sprinkler-based fire-protection zone spraying system50.

As indicated at Block D inFIG.7A, the fourth step involves confirming that perimeter and surface area of the building structure36is covered by overlapping sprinkler spraying patterns with at least 25% (preferably 50%) spray-surface overlapping of sprinkler spray patterns.

As indicated at Block E inFIG.7A, the fifth step involves mounting and/or installing sprinkler heads on building structure and/or property36, at the determined placement locations in step c, to achieve the spray coverage required to completely spray property and apply the environmentally clean fire inhibiting coating on all combustible surfaces.

As indicated at Block F inFIG.7A, the sixth step involves connecting the electrical liquid pump22, and sprinkler sprayheads28in a fluid series configuration using PVC or like plastic tubing26.

As indicated at Block G inFIG.7A, the seventh step involves connecting fire inhibitor storage tank21, and source of water37, to the electric pump22using a valve assembly25and PVC or like piping so that either (i) when the 2-way valve assembly25which when configured into a first position, water from the water source (e.g. garden hose) is allowed to flow under building water pressure into the electric pump22and through the closed fluid pumping loop and spraying from sprinkler heads28during testing operations, and (ii) when the valve assembly is configured to a second position, the liquid fire inhibitor35premixed and stored in the storage tank21is allowed to flow into the electric pump22and through the closed pumping loop and spraying from sprinkler heads28during proactive wildfire defense spraying operations.

As indicated at Block I inFIG.7B, the eighth step involves connecting 120V lithium-battery backup power supply system to 120V/30 A service at building location, and then connect 4G GSM remote power control switch between lithium-battery backup power supply system and electric pump, using electrical earth-grounding on the electric fluid (water) pump.

As indicated at Block H inFIG.7B, the ninth step involves activating (i) the 4G GSM remote power control switch24with telecommunication company (e.g. AT&T) providing SIM card for the GSM power control switch24, which will involve: assigning a phone number and SMS service to the remote power control switch24, and also (ii) assigning a phone number and SMS service to the 4G GSM GPS sensor30mounted on the Citrotech® storage tank21at the factory. This will involve activating its 3V battery and enabling the GPS sensor30to GPS track the storage tank21location and automatically transmit the GPS location data to a SMS server operated by the manufacturer of the wildfire defense spraying system kit20, and support a GPS tracking and monitoring of each Citrotech® containing storage tank21deployed around the globe.

As indicated at Block J inFIG.7B, the tenth step involves, during sprinkler spray pattern testing operations, configuring the valve assembly25into its first flow control position, so that water from a water source (e.g. garden hose or house facet)37is allowed to flow under building water pressure into the electric pump22and through the closed fluid circulation loop and spraying from sprinkler heads28, and confirm that the sprinklers28are operating property and that their spray coverage and spray patterns are overlapping as desired, and if not, then adjusting the sprinkler heads as needed or otherwise required. As indicated at Block K inFIG.7B, the eleventh step involves, during activation operations, ascertaining that the adequate amount of Citrotech® wildfire inhibitor dry powder29is contained in the storage tank21(to the dry powder fill line), and then fasten mixing nozzle27to hose and fill the storage tank21with water37to its water fill line so that premixed Citrotech® liquid wildfire inhibitor35will be ready for spray application once the proper quantity of water has been added to the storage tank21.

As indicated at Block L inFIG.7B, the twelfth step involves configuring the Valve Assembly to the Second Position, so that the premixed Citrotech® liquid wildfire inhibitor35is premixed and stored in the storage tank21is allowed and to flow into the electric pump22and be driven through the closed irrigation loop and spraying from sprinkler heads28, under the pressure of the electric pump22in the fluid loop during proactive wildfire defense spraying operations.

As indicated at Block M inFIG.7C, the thirteenth step involves registering the installed and configured WFD spraying system50with Mighty Fire Breaker, LLC by (i) browsing to the Site http://www.mightyfirebreaker.com/citrotech-locked-n-loaded, (ii) scanning the unique QR code (or RFID tag or other machine-readable code)31assigned to and located on the Citrotech® liquid chemical storage tank21, and (iii) completing the Registration Process, using the GPS-tracking information collected from the WFD spraying system50; an email notification will be sent to user once Registration Process is completed.

As indicated at Block N inFIG.7C, the fourteenth step involves, prior to arrival of a wildfire at the building location, and just prior to proactive wildfire defense spraying operations, the homeowner or authorized personnel using a mobile smartphone11or other phone device to send a SMS activation signal40over the digital cellular network to the 4G GSM remote power control switch24at the property location, so as that electrical power is automatically delivered to the electric pump22from the backup batter storage system23and enables the electric pump22to work and start pumping the premixed Citrotech® liquid wildfire from the storage tank21through the closed pumping loop and spraying out from sprinkler heads28, under the fluid loop pressure, to provide all combustible surfaces on the property including the building36, with a Citrotech® environmentally-clean potassium salt crystalline coating—that protects the combustible material from fire ignition, flame spread and smoke development when encountering hot flying wildfire embers during a wildfire storm.

As indicated at Block O inFIG.7C, the fifteenth step involves any time after discharge and spraying of the Citrotech® fire inhibiting liquid35from the storage tank21, and/or after the safe passage of a wildfire at the building location with all mitigated damages repaired, reactivating, and preparing the wildfire defense spraying system50for its next round of proactive fire defense spraying operations, as follows:(i) Configuring the valve assembly25in the First Position and then flush all sprinkler heads with clean water for 10 minutes, according to Step J;(ii) Configuring the value assembly25in the Second Position, and then refill the storage tank21with a new Citrotech® dry powder fire inhibitor cartridge (e.g. 25 lbs.)29from its manufacturer, and then fill the storage tank21to the Water Fill Line using clean water supplied through the mixing nozzle27as described in Step K; and(iii) Configuring the valve assembly25to its Second Position and prepare and configure the WFD System50as loaded and ready for the next wildfire threat (i.e. the system is loaded and ready to spray upon being triggered).

As indicated at Block P inFIG.7C, the thirteenth step involves triggering the WFD system after any significant rainfall on the property which may have dissolved, washed away, or deteriorated the Citrotech® potassium salt crystalline coatings, which once proactively protected combustible materials on the property from fire ignition, flame spread and smoke development.

At this juncture it will be appropriate to describe three topologically different kinds of clean-chemistry wildfire breaks and protection-zones that might be proactively formed about, before, or over targeted properties, using the wireless remotely activated wildfire defense spraying system, with respect to prevailing winds in the environment under consideration.

Specification of an Above-Ground Sprinkler-Based Firebreak Spray System Installation Mounted on a Building and Property to be Defended Against Wildfire

FIG.8shows an above-ground sprinkler-based firebreak spray system installation50of the present invention mounted on a building and property to spray the region with an environmentally-clear liquid fire inhibitor for defending against wildfire by inhibiting fire ignition and flame spread by hot flying wildfire embers created during a wildfire storm. During operation, the system proactively forms a clean-chemistry based wildfire protection zone/break60over and about a house/property to be protected/defended by spraying liquid fire inhibitor35from storage tank21before arrival of wildfire.

FIG.9shows the wireless remotely-activatable sprinkler-based wildfire defense fire inhibitor spraying system of the present invention50deployed inFIG.8, which is modeled after the general system shown inFIG.6and described above.

FIG.10is a schematic diagram shows the spray patterns generated by the sprinkler heads28mounted about the building, and driven by the wildfire defense fire inhibiting spraying system50of this illustrative embodiment of the present invention.

FIG.11shows mobile smartphone11being used to remotely activate the spraying of Citrotech® fire inhibitor before the arrival of a wildfire on the property of the system installation50ofFIGS.9and10, using SMS supported by a 4G GSM digital cellular communication link between the smartphone11and the 4G GSM remote power control switch24employed at the spraying system installation. Specifically, the homeowner sends a text message40via SMS over 4G GSM digital cellular network to automatically activate electric pump22via the 4G GSM remote power control switch24used in the wildfire defense spraying system50. When the pump21completes pumping and spraying all the fire inhibitor35in the storage tank21, the electric pump will automatically shut off, and water molecules in the liquid fire inhibitor will begin to immediately evaporate forming fire-inhibiting potassium salt crystalline coatings on sprayed property.

Specification of an Above-Ground Sprinkler-Based Firebreak Spray System Installation Mounted on a Building and Property to be Defended Against Wildfire

FIG.12shows an above-ground sprinkler-based firebreak spray system installation of the present invention50configured before a property and building36to be defended against wildfire by spraying a zone of fire inhibiting chemistry60that inhibits fire ignition and flame spread by hot flying wildfire embers created during a wildfire storm41.

FIG.13shows a wireless remotely-activatable sprinkler-based wildfire defense fire inhibitor spraying system of the present invention50deployed inFIG.12, which is modeled after the general system shown inFIG.6and described above.

FIG.14shows the resulting linear spray pattern generated by the sprinkler heads28mounted above the ground before the property to be protected and driven by the wildfire defense fire inhibiting spraying system50of this illustrative embodiment of the present invention.

FIG.15shows a mobile smartphone11being used to remotely activate the spraying of fire inhibitor35before the arrival of a wildfire on the property of the system installation50ofFIGS.13and14, using SMS supported by a 4G GSM digital cellular communication link between the smartphone11and the 4G GSM remote power control switch24employed at the spraying system installation. Specifically, the homeowner sends a text message40via SMS over 4G GSM digital cellular network to automatically activate electric pump22via the 4G GSM remote power control switch24used in the wildfire defense spraying system. When the pump21completes pumping and spraying all the fire inhibitor35in the storage tank21, the electric pump will automatically shut off, and water molecules in the liquid fire inhibitor will begin to immediately evaporate forming fire-inhibiting potassium salt crystalline coatings on sprayed property.

Specification of Underground Sprinkler-Based Fire-Zone Spray System Installation Configured about a Property to be Defended Against Wildfire

FIG.16shows an under-ground sprinkler-based firebreak spray system installation of the present invention50configured about a property to be defended against wildfire by spraying a zone of fire inhibiting chemistry60that inhibits fire ignition and flame spread by hot flying wildfire embers41created during a wildfire storm.

FIG.17shows the wireless remotely-activatable sprinkler-based wildfire defense fire inhibitor spraying system of the present invention50deployed inFIG.16.

FIG.18Ashows the system of the present invention depicted inFIGS.16and17, which is modeled after the general system shown inFIG.6and described above.

FIG.18Bshows that the spray heads28, chemical storage tank21and electric pump22and components are mounted underground, and configured for automatically spraying preconfigured patterns of environmentally-clean fire inhibitor on ground surfaces requiring proactive protection against wildfires.

FIG.19shows the resulting linear spray pattern generated by the sprinkler heads28mounted underground before and/or about the property to be protected, and driven by the wildfire defense fire inhibiting spraying system of this illustrative embodiment 50 of the present invention.

FIG.20shows a mobile smartphone11being used to remotely activate the spraying of fire inhibitor35before the arrival of a wildfire on the property of the system installation ofFIGS.18A,18B and19, using SMS supported by a 4G GSM digital cellular communication link between the smartphone11and the 4G GSM remote power control switch24employed at the spraying system installation50. Specifically, the homeowner sends a text message via SMS over 4G GSM digital cellular network to automatically activate electric pump21via the 4G GSM remote power control switch24used in the wildfire defense spraying system50. Specifically, the homeowner sends a text message40via SMS over 4G GSM digital cellular network to automatically activate electric pump22via the 4G GSM remote power control switch24used in the wildfire defense spraying system.50When the pump21completes pumping and spraying all the fire inhibitor35in the storage tank21, the electric pump22will automatically shut off, and water molecules in the liquid fire inhibitor will begin to immediate evaporate forming fire-inhibiting potassium salt crystalline coatings on sprayed property36.

Method of Operating the Wildfire Defense Spraying System of the Present Invention

In the preferred embodiments described above, a building/home owner or manager can manually activate and operate the spraying system from anywhere to protect either the building and/or ground surfaces around the building, as desired or required, based on intelligence in the possession of the human operator or manager.

Alternatively, the automated wildfire ember controller27when activated, in cooperation with the local electronic wildfire and ember detection module27and associated 4G GSM cellular network, automatically activates and operates the electric pump of the spraying system to protect both the building and/or ground surfaces around the building, as required, based on intelligence automatically collected by ember/smoke detector deployed on the wireless network and linked to the homeowner's wildfire defense spraying system.

Preferably, each wildfire defense spraying system50will include automated mechanisms for remotely monitoring and reporting the amount of Citrotech® fire inhibitor chemical liquid available and remaining for use in supporting spraying operations. Such monitoring will help to ensure that adequate reserves of fire inhibiting chemical liquid are stored in GPS-tracked storage tanks21on each property before any given wildfire strike to support wildfire ember suppression spraying operations.

Typically, the locked and loaded home wildfire defense system will be manually triggered by the owners several hours and just before the owners are required to evacuate their homes and property for safety reasons, by authorities such as the local fire chief and deputies. Alternatively, the wildfire home defense system can also be remotely triggered using a mobile smartphone11, if required, with the property owners not home to manually triggering the spraying defense mode of the system.

The system will be remotely controllable by the building manger/home-owner using a mobile computing system11running the mobile application. Suitable graphical user interfaces (GUIs) can be supported on the mobile application to enable the user to monitor and control the system locally, or from a remote location, in real-time, provided the wireless communication infrastructure is not disrupted by a wildfire. In the case of active wildfires, a wildfire detection and notification network can be provided for continuously collecting, recording and monitor intelligence about specific regions of land and any wildfires detected in such regions, and advise any specific home/building owner of the status of any specific building before, during and after a wildfire.

Modifications to the Present Invention which Readily Come to Mind

The illustrative kits and spray system embodiments disclose using environmentally clean fire inhibiting biochemical compositions of matter developed by Applicant and covered under pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/167,084 filed Feb. 4, 2021, and titled ENVIRONMENTALLY-CLEAN WATER-BASED FIRE INHIBITING BIOCHEMICAL COMPOSITIONS, AND METHODS OF AND APPARATUS FOR APPLYING THE SAME TO PROTECT PROPERTY AGAINST WILDFIRE, incorporated herein by reference. However, it is understood that alternative clean fire inhibiting chemical compositions may be used to practice the wild fire defense methods according to the principles of the present invention.

In the illustrative embodiment of the wildfire home defense spraying system of the present invention, 4G GSM digital cellular communications is provided between the electrical pump components of the system and the homeowner's smartphone, enabling the remote triggering of automated fire inhibitor spraying operations on the property in response to a single SMS text message sent over the network from the homeowner's smartphone. This is a very reliable method of remote triggering because electrical power and internet service failure at homes during an active wildfire is more likely than loss of digital cellular service, all things considered.

However, it is understood that a web-based remote-control method for triggering the spraying system can be practiced as well by using a mobile application running a native mobile application or web browser application, and an Internet-based remote electrical power controller installed aboard the wildfire defense spraying system. Notably, in such a web-based alternative embodiment of the present invention, Internet service (and WIFI Service) will be required at the home-based property being protected, in order to enable remote-triggering of spraying operations executed using the homeowner's mobile smartphone running the native mobile application or web browser application, as the case may be.

All things considered, the 4G GSM remote control method would appear more reliable in most applications. However, in some applications, the web-based application might seem preferred. Also, in yet other environments and applications, use of both 4G GSM and web-based methods might be preferred to provide the homeowners two options of remote-control triggering of fire inhibitor spraying operations on a particular GPS-specified parcel of property.

While several modifications to the illustrative embodiments have been described above, it is understood that various other modifications to the illustrative embodiment of the present invention will readily occur to persons with ordinary skill in the art. All such modifications and variations are deemed to be within the scope and spirit of the present invention as defined by the accompanying Claims to Invention.