Interpretation ID: nht94-8.44

DATE: January 25, 1994

FROM: Eldon J. McLauchlin -- President, Valley Automotive Specialties, Inc.

TO: John Womack -- Acting Chief Counsel of NHTSA

TITLE: Certification Opinion

ATTACHMT: Attached to letter dated 4/12/94 to Eldon J. McLauchlin from John Womack (A42; VSA 102(4))

TEXT:

I contacted your office on 1/24/94 regarding information on certification pertaining to a product I have developed. I was advised by an associate of yours' to write you a letter explaining the purpose of the product and a brief description of it's uses and how it operates.

The product is an Automated Fire Extinguisher System. The AFES can be used on automobiles, trucks, boats, RV's, and buses. We will also be modifying the existing proto-type so that it can be installed in homes and commercial buildings.

The purpose of this product is to enable the operator/occupant of vehicles or buildings to exit safely in the event of a fire. The automation of the control valve will activate the extinguisher even if the operator/occupant is not able to due to unconsciousness or other circumstances beyond their control. This product will allow sufficient time for the operator/occupant to escape or be extracted from the vehicle or building.

The AFES will operate on a 12 volt system, most commonly found on all types of motor vehicles, boats, etc. The AFES will also operate on a 110 volt system, common in all homes and buildings. Activation will be accomplished through smoke and heat sensors, a valve and manifold assembly with strategically placed directional nozzles. The number of directional nozzles required will depend on the size of the vehicle or building that has the AFES installed. Once the AFES is installed it will stay maintainable and can be recharged.

In closing, if it is your opinion that this lifesaving system needs to be certified by the appropriate agency(s) or if you need further information in order to determine your opinion, please contact me. I would greatly appreciate it if you could make available to me the information I will need to accomplish the certification if you decide it is necessary. Thank you for your time and consideration.