'SAFE Quick Cover' Automatically Protects Structures from Flames
Katie Cordrey — July 12, 2009 — Eco
References: popsci
The ‘SAFE Quick Cover’ is a rooftop system that automatically covers a house or other fire-threatened structure with fireproof fabric.
There are 3 steps to the fireproof tent deployment process:
1. The Quick Cover system is activated, this sets off a semi-explosive chemical reaction similar to inflating a car airbag that unfolds fireproof fabric from roof-mounted storage.
2. Two large fans, like the ones at carnival bounce tents, pump air into airtight, flexible exoskeleton tubes.
3. The fabric cover follows the exoskeleton lead and unfolds along the roof, dropping over the sides of the house.
The system reportedly works and remains rigid, even in strong winds. It could potentially save hundreds of people who die each year trying to save their homes in the face of fire. Additional benefits include the cost savings to insurance companies and home owners who are spared from property loss because of the protection.
There are 3 steps to the fireproof tent deployment process:
1. The Quick Cover system is activated, this sets off a semi-explosive chemical reaction similar to inflating a car airbag that unfolds fireproof fabric from roof-mounted storage.
2. Two large fans, like the ones at carnival bounce tents, pump air into airtight, flexible exoskeleton tubes.
3. The fabric cover follows the exoskeleton lead and unfolds along the roof, dropping over the sides of the house.
The system reportedly works and remains rigid, even in strong winds. It could potentially save hundreds of people who die each year trying to save their homes in the face of fire. Additional benefits include the cost savings to insurance companies and home owners who are spared from property loss because of the protection.
Trend Themes
1. Fireproof Tents - Developing fireproof tenting systems for houses could be a disruptive innovation opportunity in the construction and insurance industries
2. Automatic Protective Systems - Developing automatic protective covering systems could be a disruptive innovation opportunity in the home security and construction industries
3. Flexible Exoskeleton Tubes - Developing flexible exoskeleton tubes could be a disruptive innovation opportunity in the manufacturing and construction industries
Industry Implications
1. Construction - Fireproof tenting systems and automatic protective covering systems offer construction a new product category to explore
2. Insurance - Investing in the development of fireproof tenting could be an opportunity for insurance companies to save on claims and generate additional revenue streams
3. Home Security - Automatic protective systems can be utilized as a new product category by security businesses for keeping homes safe from natural disasters
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