Fire-resistant Geodesic Dome with Active Water Cooling for Protecting Existing and New Homes 

 

Introduction 

 

This invention addresses the critical need for enhanced fire protection in residential structures by introducing a fire-resistant geodesic dome with an integrated active water cooling system.

 

Firestorm devastation

 

"Recent wildfires have resulted in significant property loss, displacement of residents, and tragically, loss of life across the globe.  The latest firestorm to hit Los Angeles in the middle of winter was devastating. It looked like there was no protection against the fire. Brave firefighters with big water hoses, big air power water drops, and owners with garden hoses - nothing helps.   Once the massive fire started, especially in high-wind areas and in those neighborhoods close to nature. Which rich people preferred, there was almost no defense.  Los Angeles was struck, but this devastating phenomenon is worldwide, even in northern counties. The reason fire spreads and engulfs everything is the sparks that fly everywhere, and invulnerable spots like corners, open windows, shingle roofs, etc. 

 

 What feeds the fire

 

Fire needs flammable material and air, mostly oxygen. Rough surfaces make it easy for fire to get started.  The environment where we see mass fires is in nature, where dry vegetation and trees provide plenty of fire-combustible material. From there, the fire invades residential areas with plenty of wooden frame houses and interiors of wooden furniture and other flammable materials, like drapes, cloth, and so on. 

 

Post devastating fire, people's reaction.

 

A relatively short time after a devastating fire, people will rush to their insurance company and start planning to rebuild the same type of house that they lost in the fire, not giving one thought that maybe it should be different this time and protect against future fires that might be worth it because of worldwide climate change.  Naturally, insurance premiums might be much higher. A  few smart people will start thinking of ways to protect their lives and property.

What is the barrier that stops the advancing fire? 

 

A wall barrier between the structure and the fire is made up of non-flammable and smooth material that should stand up to high temperatures. Flowing water will be a good protection and will add a level of safety and peace of mind. 

 

The Future of Home Safety: Geodesic Domes with Active Water Cooling




A dome structure has a lot of natural advantages because of its unique natural shape. There are different types of domes the one we chose is the Geodesic Dome:

Characterized by a network of interconnected triangular elements.             

Strong, lightweight, and efficient in terms of material usage.

Allow transparent light to create a feeling of the outdoors in a pleasant controlled weather environment. 

 Geodesic dome with non-flammable external wall material, smooth surface, and no openings can protect the interior house from fire sparks and flames:

A geodesic dome with a transparent, fire-resistant exterior can protect the interior house:

  • Protection from Radiant Heat: Transparent materials, such as specialized fire-resistant glass or high-performance polymers, can be engineered to reflect a significant portion of radiant heat away from the dome and the underlying structure.
  • Reduced Ignition Sources: While transparent, these materials can be treated to be fire-resistant, meaning they resist ignition and minimize the spread of flames. This reduces the risk of embers or direct flame contact igniting the dome's exterior.
  • Maintain Natural Light: Using transparent materials allows for the passage of natural light, maintaining aesthetic appeal and reducing the need for artificial lighting within the dome.

The fire protection system:

"This innovative fire protection system for geodesic dome homes integrates an active water cooling system. Water is pumped to the dome's apex and flows down its exterior, creating a protective barrier against fire. The system is triggered by heat sensors, smoke detectors, or manual activation. Water is recycled, and the system is powered by a battery bank recharged by solar or wind energy. This approach enhances fire resistance, improves safety, and minimizes environmental impact."

 

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Fire-resistant Geodesic Dome with Active Water Cooling for Protecting Existing and New Homes

Introduction

This invention addresses the critical need for enhanced fire protection in residential structures by introducing a fire-resistant geodesic dome with an integrated active water cooling system.

The Devastating Impact of Wildfires

Recent wildfires have resulted in significant property loss, displacement of residents, and tragically, loss of life across the globe. The latest firestorm to hit Los Angeles in the middle of winter served as a stark reminder of the devastating power of these events. Despite the efforts of firefighters, aerial water drops, and homeowners, the rapid spread of the fire overwhelmed traditional defenses, particularly in densely populated areas and those adjacent to wildlands. This phenomenon is not limited to a single region; devastating wildfires occur worldwide, driven by climate change and increased drought conditions.

Understanding Fire Behavior

Fire requires three elements to ignite and spread: fuel, heat, and oxygen. In wildfire scenarios, abundant dry vegetation and trees provide ample fuel. Rough surfaces, common in many residential areas, contribute to the rapid spread of fire by creating numerous ignition points for flying embers. Furthermore, the presence of wooden-framed houses and flammable interior furnishings exacerbates the fire's intensity.

The Limitations of Traditional Responses

Following a devastating fire, homeowners often rebuild using similar construction methods, neglecting to consider more resilient and fire-resistant options. While insurance premiums may increase, proactive measures to enhance fire safety are often overlooked.

The Geodesic Dome: A Solution for Enhanced Fire Protection

The unique geometry of the geodesic dome offers significant advantages in fire resistance. Characterized by a network of interconnected triangular elements, the geodesic dome is inherently strong, lightweight, and efficient in terms of material usage. Furthermore, its smooth, continuous surface minimizes potential ignition points for embers and facilitates the effective application of the active water cooling system.

The Role of Transparent, Fire-Resistant Materials

The dome's exterior incorporates transparent, fire-resistant materials such as specialized glass or high-performance polymers. These materials:

  • Reflect Radiant Heat: They effectively reflect a significant portion of radiant heat away from the dome and the underlying structure.
  • Resist Ignition: These materials are engineered to resist ignition and minimize the spread of flames, further enhancing fire safety.
  • Maintain Natural Light: By allowing the passage of natural light, these materials preserve the aesthetic appeal and reduce the need for artificial lighting within the dome.

Active Water Cooling System

This innovative fire protection system integrates an active water cooling system. Water is continuously pumped to the apex of the dome and evenly distributed across its exterior surface. This creates a protective water curtain that:

  • Cools the Dome: The water significantly reduces the temperature of the dome structure, minimizing the risk of structural damage.
  • Extinguishes Flames: The water helps to extinguish any flames that may reach the dome's surface.
  • Minimizes Heat Transfer: The water barrier significantly reduces heat transfer to the dome's interior, protecting the occupants and their belongings.

System Activation and Sustainability

The water cooling system can be activated manually or automatically.

  • Automated Activation: Heat sensors, smoke detectors, and integration with existing fire alarm systems can trigger the system automatically, providing rapid response to a fire.
  • Sustainable Operation:
    • Water is recycled to minimize water consumption.
    • The system is powered by a battery bank recharged by solar or wind energy, promoting environmental sustainability.

Conclusion

The geodesic dome with an integrated active water cooling system represents a significant advancement in residential fire protection. By combining the inherent strength and fire resistance of the dome structure with a robust and sustainable water cooling system, this invention offers a promising solution to enhance home safety in the face of increasing wildfire threats.