An algorithm for calculating and constructing the fire area shape according to the tactical calculation model

Introduction. Managing firefighting operations requires considering numerous factors, including the shape and size of the fire area. In operational practice, simplified methods such as the tactical fire area calculation model are used. However, implementing this model in software is challenging, especially for objects with complex enclosing structures.

Goals and objectives. The goal of this work is to develop algorithms implementing the tactical model for calculating the shape and area of a fire. The tasks include analyzing existing methods, developing an algorithm that accounts for fire spread time, the configuration of enclosing structures, and the influence of firefighting equipment, as well as creating a tool for automating calculations.

Materials and methods. The algorithm is based on a modified Lee algorithm, used to model fire spread in a discrete space. It considers the linear fire spread rate, which depends on the fire development time and the deployment of firefighting equipment. A method for transitioning from a circular to a rectangular fire shape upon reaching walls was developed, along with a mechanism to account for the influence of firefighting equipment on fire progression.

Results and discussion. The algorithm demonstrated high accuracy (99 %) in constructing the fire area shape. The transition to a rectangular shape upon reaching walls aligns with the tactical model. Accounting for firefighting equipment allows modelling its impact on fire development. Comparison with the geometric method showed differences in fire area of less than 1 %. Key advantages include compliance with calculation rules, applicability to objects of any complexity, clarity, and consideration of equipment influence. Disadvantages include inaccuracies in the fire zone contour and accelerated fire spread in narrowing walls.

Conclusions. The algorithm is effective for modelling fire areas in accordance with the tactical model. The hypo­thesis regarding the use of a modified Lee algorithm is confirmed. For further development, cross-platform implementation, performance optimization, and additional experiments are recommended. The approach is applicable for predicting operational scenarios at facilities of various purposes.

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