Introduction Statement
FAV Inc. has been developing a new concept fire suppression apparatus, FIRECAT Fire Attack Vehicle, at its own expense for several years. The first production prototype was in operation and was suppressing wildfire as early as 1996. The FIRECAT Fire Attack Vehicle (FAV or FIRECAT) incorporates the newest and best American technologies into a highly aggressive, rough terrain, direct fire attack vehicle utilizing the latest Global Positioning Systems (GPS), infrared imaging, short range radar, ceramic and reflective thermal armor, computerized tool controls, cabin climate control and video external output, together with proven severe duty vehicle platforms. We have designed, built and tested a functional, concept-proving machine that can put out active fire lines without using water and without scarring the ground surface or damaging underlying plant root structure. Powerful "weed-whacker"-type steel cutters slash a wide, safe path directly through a raging fire line while high pressure air blows the fire out and tosses the debris back onto the already-burned, oxygen-starved side of the fire line.
1) The prototype FIRECAT can utilize its unique abilities to attack burning trees, brush and sage, on flatlands and hillsides alike, with unequaled speed and efficiency.
2) The prototype FIRECAT can reach more than 60' vertical to slash burning tree branches.
3) The prototype FIRECAT has the capability of climbing 45º slopes.
4) The prototype FIRECAT can cut a 27' wide fire break on active fire lines.
5) Sweeping the cutters, the FIRECAT can create a 90' wide fire break.
6) The prototype FIRECAT can be used at night as a last line of defense when wild fires threaten residences by deploying it for direct attack fire suppression.
7) The FIRECAT does not create an erosion problem. Field tests at Pala Indian Reservation outside of San Diego, CA, and at Niland, CA, in Imperial County, have demonstrated that the FIRECAT does not damage sensitive native plant root structures.
FAV, Inc. to eventually offer four (4) sizes of machines:
1) Our first fully developed model (that followed the original prototype machine) is mounted on a New Holland bi-directional tractor. It has 112 horsepower, a top ground speed of 28 MPH, carries a small, rechargeable retardant reservoir, and is thermal armored to withstand nearly 3000 degree temperatures. It has video external output capability, cabin climate control and infrared and normal spectrum video. Short range radar and computerized tool controls will be offered as the software is developed. This is an all-duty machine for urban and wild land fire suppression missions. It has tree shear capability and vertical reach of over 60 feet.
2) Our second machine will be a super rough terrain track mounted machine, with enough power to slash through tough Chaparral or wood frame structure walls.
3) Our third machine will be an economical model mounted on a skid steer loader platform. It will be light enough to be carried by helicopter.
4) The fourth machine will be a walk-behind model, in the 10 horsepower range, i.e., small enough so that it can be dropped in with Smoke Jumpers.