Importance

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Abstract

A method and apparatus which reduces flame emissions from an electronics enclosure in the event of a fire within the enclosure. At least one fan is utilized to provide air flow along an air flow path between an air intake port and an air exhaust port of the enclosure. At least one heat sensor, such as a linear heat detector cable, detects an over-temperature condition within air flow path when the temperature in the air flow path exceeds a predetermined threshold temperature. The sensors are coupled to a fan controller. In response to the detection by the controller of the over-temperature condition indicated by one or multiple sensors disposed within the air flow path, the fans are disabled to avoid the fanning of flames within the enclosure and the exhaust of flames from the enclosure. The controller may also activate a indicator such as an alarm or warning light to make a user aware of the over-temperature condition and additionally may provide an electronic signal indicative of the over-temperature condition to system hardware or software to permit further alert messages to be provided.

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First Claim