Proximity detection for life safety equipment
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- MICROCHIP TECHNOLOGY INC
- Filing Date
- 2024-04-25
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-26
Smart Images
Figure CN122095402A_ABST
Abstract
Description
priority
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 593,195, filed October 25, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field
[0002] This disclosure relates to proximity detection for life safety equipment, and more specifically to the detection of objects approaching life safety equipment (such as, but not limited to, smoke detectors, toxic gas detectors) that may obstruct or impair the function of life safety equipment. Background Technology
[0003] Life safety equipment used in residential, commercial, and industrial applications often requires an unobstructed area around it to function properly. Sensors such as smoke detectors and toxic gas detectors may require continuous airflow to quickly and accurately detect safety hazards. Objects such as stacked boxes, cobwebs, dust, and shelves can act as obstructions, hindering proper operation and endangering life and property. Detecting these problems before safety incidents such as fires or gas leaks occur may require operators to conduct potentially costly and manual inspections (through means such as site visits or observation via camera systems). In some areas, on-site inspections may be infrequent or nonexistent, whether due to cost or remote location. Even if inspections are frequent, it may take some time to detect obstacles if they appear on their own after an inspection.
[0004] One approach is to use an IR light-emitting diode (LED) with an infrared (IR) sensitive photodiode. The IR LED is arranged around the life safety device housing and blinks periodically. Light signals are picked up on the photodiode and then measured to look for reflections that indicate the presence of an object in close proximity to the life safety device. However, the inventors of the examples disclosed herein have found disadvantages in using IR LEDs because life safety devices may need to be ultra-low-power devices, such as smoke detectors with 10-year battery life and systems that also power connected life safety devices using low-power data communication cables. As an active sensing system, blinking an array of LEDs and using a photodetector array for measurement can consume a relatively large amount of power. This may also require separate light-emitting and detection components and increase the manufacturing cost of the life safety device.
[0005] The examples disclosed herein may solve one or more of these problems. Summary of the Invention
[0006] Various aspects and examples of this disclosure provide apparatus and methods for detecting objects approaching a life safety device based on ambient light, which may obstruct or otherwise impair the operation of the life safety device.
[0007] One aspect may include a device. For example, the device may include a power circuit to receive power from the power source of the life safety device. The device may include at least one control circuit powered by the power circuit. The control circuit may be used in a calibration mode to: receive a signal from an ambient light sensor; and determine a baseline ambient light level based on the signal from the ambient light sensor. The control circuit may be used in a proximity detection mode to: receive another signal from the ambient light sensor; compare the other signal from the ambient light sensor with the baseline ambient light level; use analysis to determine that the difference between the ambient light and the baseline ambient light level indicates the presence of an object approaching the life safety device; and issue an alarm indicating the presence of the object approaching the life safety device, at least in part based on the analysis.
[0008] Alternatively, a method may be included. For example, the method may include, in a calibration mode: receiving a signal from an ambient light sensor of the life safety device; and determining a baseline ambient light level for the life safety device based on the signal from the ambient light sensor. The method may include, in a proximity detection mode: receiving another signal from the ambient light sensor; comparing the other signal from the ambient light sensor with the baseline ambient light level; and using analysis to determine that the difference between the ambient light and the baseline ambient light level indicates the presence of an object approaching the life safety device. In some examples, proximity may be defined by the focal length of a focusing device covering the ambient light sensor. The method may also include issuing an alarm indicating the presence of an object approaching the life safety device, at least in part, based on the analysis.
[0009] On the other hand, it may include an article of manufacture. For example, the article of manufacture may include a non-transitory machine-readable medium, which may include instructions that can be loaded and executed by one or more control circuits of the life safety device. The instructions may cause the one or more control circuits in a calibration mode to: receive a signal from an ambient light sensor of the life safety device; and determine a baseline ambient light level of the life safety device based on the signal from the first ambient light sensor. The instructions may also cause the control circuits in a proximity detection mode to: receive another signal from the ambient light sensor; compare the other signal from the ambient light sensor with the baseline ambient light level; and use analysis to determine that the difference between the ambient light and the baseline ambient light level indicates the presence of an object approaching the life safety device. In some examples, proximity is defined by the focal length of a focusing device covering the ambient light sensor. The instructions may also cause the control circuits in the proximity detection mode to issue an alarm indicating the presence of an object approaching the life safety device, at least in part, based on the analysis. Attached Figure Description
[0010] The accompanying drawings illustrate various aspects of a life safety device, which includes an ambient light sensor for detecting obstacles or objects approaching the life safety device.
[0011] Figure 1 An example of a life safety device including an ambient light sensor for proximity detection is shown according to this disclosure.
[0012] Figure 2 An example of a life safety device including an ambient light sensor for proximity detection is shown according to this disclosure.
[0013] Figure 3 An example of a life safety device according to this disclosure is shown, including an ambient light sensor with a focal device for proximity detection.
[0014] Figure 4A An example of a life safety device according to this disclosure is shown, comprising an ambient light sensor having a fisheye lens focusing device for proximity detection.
[0015] Figure 4B An example of a life safety device according to this disclosure is shown, comprising an ambient light sensor having a Fresnel lens focusing device for proximity detection and an proximity detection zone.
[0016] Figure 4C Examples of an ambient light sensor and a light tube focusing device for proximity detection, as well as a life safety device for a proximity detection area, are shown according to this disclosure.
[0017] Figure 5AAn example of a life safety device including multiple ambient light sensors for proximity detection is shown according to this disclosure.
[0018] Figure 5B An example of a life safety device including multiple ambient light sensors for proximity detection is shown according to this disclosure.
[0019] Figure 6A An example of an unobstructed life safety device including an ambient light sensor for proximity detection is shown according to this disclosure.
[0020] Figure 6B An example of an obstructed life safety device including an ambient light sensor for proximity detection is shown according to this disclosure.
[0021] Figure 7 A flowchart is shown of a method for detecting objects approaching a life safety device based on ambient light, according to an example of this disclosure.
[0022] Figure 8 An example of a life safety device including an ambient light sensor for proximity detection is shown according to this disclosure.
[0023] Figure 9 A flowchart is shown of a method for detecting objects approaching a life safety device based on ambient light, according to an example of this disclosure, and providing feedback to the system.
[0024] Figure 10 An example of a life safety device including an ambient light sensor for proximity detection is shown according to this disclosure.
[0025] Figure 11 A flowchart is shown of a method for detecting objects approaching a life safety device based on ambient light, according to an example of this disclosure.
[0026] Figure 12 A flowchart illustrating a method for detecting an object approaching a life safety device, which may include multiple ambient light sensors, is shown as an example of this disclosure.
[0027] The reference numerals for elements illustrated in multiple different figures have the same meaning in all figures, and any mention or discussion of any illustrated element in the context of any particular figure also applies to every other figure (if any) in which the same illustrated element is shown. In some figures, certain elements may be omitted for clarity when discussing aspects or examples of other elements. Detailed Implementation
[0028] Detection of objects or obstacles approaching life safety equipment (referred to herein as proximity detection) can help improve equipment performance and reduce risks to life and property, reduce or even eliminate the need for manual inspections, and allow for automated reporting. Lower power can be used by using sensors that rely on ambient light already present in the environment, compared to equipment that must both emit and detect light. Low-power and accurate detection of potential obstacles can be provided using electro-optic sensors, such as light sensors for measuring the intensity of ambient light or color sensors for measuring a specific wavelength range of ambient light. These sensors also have the advantage of low cost, are emission-free passive detection systems, and are easier to integrate into printed circuit boards (PCBs) or other control circuits (e.g., but not limited to microcontrollers (MCUs), analog front-ends (AFEs), or other logic circuits), potentially reducing mean time between failures (MTBF) and improving reliability.
[0029] According to this disclosure, any suitable electro-optic sensor, photoelectric sensor, or photodetector can be used to detect changes in ambient light approaching a life safety device and perform proximity detection. Suitable electro-optic sensors or photodetectors that can be used to represent the intensity, color, or other measurable characteristics (or combinations thereof) of ambient light as electrical signals are referred to herein as ambient light sensors. Examples of suitable ambient light sensors include, but are not limited to, light sensors, color sensors, multispectral sensors, and infrared (IR) sensors. Ambient light sensors can be placed inside or outside the housing of the life safety device. The ambient light sensor can be covered by a focusing device such as a lens, through which light passes and is focused onto the ambient light sensor. The field of view and focal length can be set near or at the closest distance (referred to as the focal length) at which an object can be safely reached without obstructing the life safety device. By setting an appropriate focal length, an object closer to the detector will have a greater impact on the light level than a more distant object. The combination of an ambient light sensor and a focusing device can allow the detection of obstacles or objects within a predetermined proximity range of the life safety device, where the proximity can be defined by the focal length. Any suitable type of lens or other optical focusing device can be used as a focusing device, and some may allow multiple detection zones, such as, but not limited to, Fresnel lenses, other compound lenses, and light tubes.
[0030] Devices including ambient light sensors and control circuitry can monitor changes in the intensity or spectral level of ambient light (such as red, green, and blue) over time and trigger an alarm if an obstacle or object is detected within a predetermined proximity range of the life safety device during a certain time period. The obstacle or object is detected within the predetermined proximity range in response to changes in ambient light or spectral level. The device can also take an initial snapshot of the area after installation to compare changes in light or color over time. By comparing changes over time, transient events and normal variations in ambient light can be accounted for to improve system reliability. Reduced power requirements can be achieved by periodically (e.g., hourly, daily, or weekly) sensing measurable characteristics of available ambient light in the environment (e.g., intensity or color). In the case of a potential obstacle detection, increasing the periodicity of sensing can determine the presence of the obstacle for a predetermined duration, thus indicating the presence of a continuous obstacle. This reduces the occurrence of false detections of transient events.
[0031] Artificial intelligence (AI), including machine learning techniques, can be used to train devices to consider, for example, but not limited to, periodic variations in ambient light levels due to normal ambient light variations within a space, based on space usage or time of day. AI models can be trained by providing feedback that confirms when an alarm accurately indicates the detection of an obstacle or object near the device, or when an alarm indicates a false detection. In this way, different devices in a system of connected devices can be used in different environments with varying ambient light levels. The AI and methods or techniques mentioned herein typically apply advanced mathematical algorithms (e.g., decision trees, neural networks, regression analysis, principal component analysis (PCA) for feature and pattern extraction, cluster analysis, genetic algorithms, or reinforcement learning) to a dataset. As an example, an AI model may include weighting factors that can be adjusted based on feedback to the system. By adjusting one or more weighting factors, an AI model can be trained to provide more accurate results, such as more accurately detecting when an object approaches a life safety device, potentially impairing the device's operation. Examples of this disclosure provide devices and methods for automatically, quickly, easily, and inexpensively detecting objects approaching a life safety device that may impair its functionality, thereby improving safety and more effectively protecting life and property.
[0032] refer to Figure 1A life safety device 100 is provided. Examples of the life safety device 100 include, but are not limited to, air quality detectors, smoke detectors, heat detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, radon detectors, or other toxic gas detectors, or any suitable combination thereof. The life safety device 100 may include a power supply 110, a power circuit 120, at least one control circuit 130, and an ambient light sensor 140. The power supply 110 may be external to the life safety device 100 (as shown) and electrically coupled to the power circuit 120 of the life safety device 100. Alternatively, the power supply 110 may be internal to the life safety device 100 (e.g., an internal battery). The power circuit 120 may be electrically coupled to the control circuit 130. The ambient light sensor 140 may be communicatively coupled to the control circuit 130. Electrical or communicative coupling may be provided by any suitable mechanism for transmitting power or signals, such as pins, wires, buses, vias, electrical paths, or any other suitable mechanism. In some examples, communicative coupling may be provided by a wireless connection, such as WiFi, Bluetooth, cellular, or any other suitable wireless mechanism or protocol.
[0033] Power supply 110 provides power to power circuit 120, which in turn provides power to other components of life safety device 100. Control circuit 130 receives power from power circuit 120 and receives an electrical signal from ambient light sensor 140, which represents the intensity, color, or other measurable characteristics of ambient light in the environment surrounding life safety device 100. Control circuit 130 can detect one or more objects approaching life safety device 100. In calibration mode, control circuit 130 receives a first signal 150 from ambient light sensor 140. Control circuit 130 can determine a first baseline ambient light level 155 based on the first signal 150. In proximity detection mode, control circuit 130 receives a second signal 160 from ambient light sensor 140. Control circuit 130 can compare the second signal 160 with the first baseline ambient light level 155. Control circuit 130 can determine, through a first analysis 165, that a first difference between the ambient light and the first baseline ambient light level 155 indicates the presence of an object (not shown) approaching life safety device 100. Control circuitry 130 may issue an alarm 170 indicating the presence of an object approaching life safety device 100, based at least in part on a first analysis 165. In this way, control circuitry 130 may detect an object approaching life safety device 100, based at least in part on signals 150 and 160 from ambient light sensor 140, and issue an alarm 170 when one or more objects are detected, based at least in part on the first analysis 165. Control circuitry 130 may also receive signals from one or more ambient light sensors (…). Figure 2The device (shown) receives signals and can control the detection of hazardous conditions (such as, but not limited to, fire, heat, smoke, or toxic gases). In some examples, multiple control circuits 130 (not shown) can be used to perform proximity detection. In some examples, one or more additional control circuits can be used to perform the functions of a life safety device, as described below. Figure 2 As described in Figure 5a.
[0034] refer to Figure 10 This provides another example of life safety equipment 100, in addition to Figure 1 In addition to the components with the same numbering shown and previously described, the life safety device also includes a third signal 180 and a second analysis 185. (See reference...) Figure 1 In the described proximity detection mode, a second signal 160 received by control circuitry 130 from ambient light sensor 140 may be received at a first sampling frequency (e.g., but not limited to hourly, daily, or weekly). Control circuitry 130 may determine, through second analysis 185, that a second difference between ambient light and a first baseline ambient light level 155 indicates the presence of an object (not shown) approaching life safety device 100. In some examples, second analysis 185 may include the following: Control circuitry 130 may receive a plurality of third signals 180 from ambient light sensor 140. The plurality of third signals 180 may be received at a second sampling frequency higher than the first sampling frequency (e.g., but not limited to per second or per minute). Control circuitry 130 may calculate an average ambient light level based on at least two of the plurality of third signals 180 received at the second sampling frequency. Control circuitry 130 may compare the calculated average ambient light level with the first baseline ambient light level 155. An alarm 170 indicating the presence of an object approaching life safety device 100 may be issued, at least in part, based on second analysis 185. In some examples, the control circuit 130 may use a threshold of the difference between the calculated average ambient light level and the first baseline ambient light level 155 to determine, at least in part, based on the second analysis 185, whether an alarm 170 should be issued.
[0035] Control circuitry 130 can determine changes in ambient light and detect obstacles or objects approaching life safety equipment 100, as described herein. Control circuitry 130 can be implemented in any suitable manner, such as via a microcontroller (MCU), analog front-end (AFE), application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate array (FPGA), programmable logic device (PLD), state machine, reprogrammable logic or hardware, analog circuitry, digital circuitry, digital logic, or instructions for execution by a processor, or any suitable combination thereof. In some examples, ambient light sensor 140 may be integrated with control circuitry 130.
[0036] An ambient light sensor 140 can detect light (which may be referred to as ambient light) present in the environment surrounding the life safety device 100 and provide a signal to the control circuitry 130 indicating the intensity or color (or both) of the detected light. The ambient light sensor 140 can be any suitable sensor capable of detecting the intensity or color of ambient light (including light of the visible or invisible spectrum). In some examples, the life safety device 100 may also include one or more memories (not shown) for storing program instructions to be loaded and executed by the control circuitry 130 or any other circuitry of this disclosure. According to examples of this disclosure, the one or more memories may also be used to store additional information used during the detection of objects approaching the life safety device 100.
[0037] refer to Figure 2 This provides a more detailed illustration of a life safety device 100 according to examples of this disclosure. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the life safety device 100 may include an environmental sensor 210. In some examples, the environmental sensor 210 may be communicatively coupled to a control circuit 130. The environmental sensor 210 may transmit a signal to the control circuit 130 indicating the presence of an environmental hazard (e.g., but not limited to heat, smoke, fire, or toxic gases). The control circuit 130 may determine the presence of a hazardous condition based on the signal received from the environmental sensor 210 and may issue an alarm in response to the signal received from the environmental sensor 210 to indicate the presence of the environmental hazard. In one example, the control circuit 130 may issue an audible alarm by triggering an audible alarm. In another example, the control circuit 130 may issue an alarm by transmitting a signal to a central monitoring station (not shown) or other computing device (e.g., but not limited to a computer, tablet, or smartphone). Some examples may include a separate control circuit 220, which is electrically coupled to a power circuit 120 and communicatively coupled to the environmental sensor 210, as indicated by the dashed line. Control circuit 220 can be used to determine the presence of a hazardous condition based on signals received from environmental sensor 210, and can issue an alarm in response to signals received from environmental sensor 210 to indicate the presence of environmental hazards. Control circuit 220 can be implemented in any suitable manner such as by MCU, AFE, ASIC, FPGA, PLD, state machine, reprogrammable logic or hardware, analog circuit, digital circuit, digital logic or instructions for execution by a processor or any suitable combination thereof.
[0038] Environmental sensor 210 can be implemented in any suitable manner and can detect any suitable physical phenomenon or condition that indicates an environmental hazard. In some examples, environmental sensor 210 may provide a signal to monitoring circuitry (not shown) communicatively coupled to control circuitry 130. Control circuitry may be implemented in any suitable manner, such as by means of MCU, AFE, ASIC, FPGA, PLD, reprogrammable logic or hardware, analog circuitry, digital circuitry, digital logic or instructions for execution by a processor, or any suitable combination thereof. In some examples, monitoring circuitry may be implemented within control circuitry 130. In some examples, monitoring circuitry may receive signals from environmental sensor 210 and determine the presence of an environmental hazard, for example, by comparing the signals to a threshold. If the signal received from sensor 210 exceeds the threshold, monitoring circuitry may determine that an alarm indicating the presence of an environmental hazard should be issued. In some examples, the alarm may be heard from an audio device (not shown) of life safety equipment 100. Audio device may be implemented in any suitable manner, such as by means of a loudspeaker, horn, or other sound-emitting device. In some examples, the alarm may be a signal transmitted to a central monitoring station or other computing device.
[0039] refer to Figure 3 An example of a life safety device 100 is provided, comprising a control circuit 130, an ambient light sensor 140, a focusing device 310, and a housing 320. For clarity, details are omitted. Figure 1 and Figure 2Other aspects and examples of the life safety device 100 shown. A focusing device 310 may cover the ambient light sensor 140, allowing light to pass through the focusing device 310 to reach the ambient light sensor 140. The focusing device 310 may be any suitable lens or other light focusing device to focus light onto the ambient light sensor 140. Examples of the focusing device 310 may include lenses of different shapes (e.g., but not limited to converging lenses, diverging lenses, fisheye lenses, other wide-angle lenses, linear lenses), compound lenses (e.g., but not limited to Fresnel lenses), combination lenses, adjustable lenses, and other light focusing devices (such as light tubes). Based on the geometry of the focusing device 310 and its position relative to the ambient light sensor 140, the focusing device 310 may have a predetermined focal length 330. Objects at or within the focal length 330 may have a greater influence on the signal generated by the ambient light sensor 140. In this way, proximity to the life safety device 100 may be defined by the focal length 330 of the focusing device 310. In some examples, the focal length 330 may be set at a minimum safe distance such that an object detected within this distance acts as an obstacle that could impair the function of the life safety device 100. In some examples, the focal length 330 may be set at a distance greater than the minimum safe distance to provide a safety factor for detecting an object before it acts as an obstacle that could impair the function of the life safety device 100. In some examples, the focusing device 310 may have a predetermined focal length 330 of one meter or less.
[0040] refer to Figures 4A to 4C Different examples of the focal device 310 of the life safety device 100 are provided. Figure 4A The use of a wide-angle lens-type focusing device 310a (such as a fisheye lens) for monitoring a wide area is shown. Figure 4B The use of Fresnel lens-type focusing device 310b is shown. Figure 4CThe use of a tube-type focusing device 310c is illustrated. Other types of focusing devices may also be used. The use of a Fresnel lens-type focusing device 310b or a tube-type focusing device 310c allows multiple zones (e.g., Z1, Z2, Z3) to be monitored using a single ambient light sensor 140. For example, a Fresnel lens-type focusing device 310b (which is a compound lens) may include three different concentric annular segments with different lens geometries, resulting in different conical detection zones (Z1, Z2, Z3) that may have different focal lengths. As another example, a tube-type focusing device 310c may include multiple tubes, each providing a different detection zone (Z1, Z2, Z3). The tube-type focusing device 310c may be paired with other types of focusing devices (such as lenses) to provide a focal length that can be used to define proximity. The focusing device may be designed to provide a specific focal length (e.g., one inch, one foot, or one meter) from the ambient light sensor 140 to determine the proximity of an obstacle or object to the life safety device 100. In some examples, a focal device with a variable focal length can be used to provide a range of object detection.
[0041] refer to Figures 5A to 5B An example of a life safety device 100 is provided, which includes a housing 320 and one or more control circuits 130 communicatively coupled to a first ambient light sensor 140a and a second ambient light sensor 140b. The second ambient light sensor 140b may be positioned at a different location relative to the housing 320 of the life safety device 100 than the first ambient light sensor 140a. In one example, the control circuit 130 may be a single control circuit. In another example, multiple control circuits 130a and 130b may be used. Control circuit 130a may be communicatively coupled to ambient light sensor 140a, and control circuit 130b may be communicatively coupled to ambient light sensor 140b. Ambient light sensors 140a and 140b may be covered by focusing devices 510a and 510b, respectively. In some examples, ambient light sensor 140a may be associated with a reference... Figure 1The described ambient light sensor 140 interacts with the control circuitry 130 in the same manner. In calibration mode, the control circuitry 130 receives a first signal 540 from the second ambient light sensor 140b. The control circuitry 130 determines a second baseline ambient light level 560 based on the first signal 540. In proximity detection mode, the control circuitry 130 receives a second signal 550 from the ambient light sensor 140b. The control circuitry 130 compares the second signal 550 with the second baseline ambient light level 560. The control circuitry can determine, through a second analysis 570, that a second difference between the ambient light and the second baseline ambient light level 560 indicates the presence of an object (not shown) approaching the life safety device 100. The control circuitry 130 can issue an alarm 580 indicating the presence of an object approaching the life safety device 100, based at least in part on the second analysis 570.
[0042] In some examples, the proximity to the life safety device 100 can be defined differently for each ambient light sensor 140a and 140b. For the first ambient light sensor 140a, the proximity to the life safety device 100 can be defined by a first focal length 530a covering a first focusing device 510a of the first ambient light sensor 140a. For the second ambient light sensor 140b, the proximity to the life safety device 100 can be defined by a second focal length 530b covering a second focusing device 510b of the second ambient light sensor 140b. The second focal length 530b can be different from the first focal length 530a. As indicated above, the ambient light sensors 140a and 140b can be positioned at different locations around the housing 320. The focusing devices 510a and 510b can be one of the examples discussed earlier or any suitable focusing device for determining changes in light under ambient lighting conditions that indicate the proximity of an object or obstacle to the life safety device 100. In some examples, multiple ambient light sensors 140 may be used with different types of focusing devices or different focal lengths to provide a range of object detection, including, for example, multiple object detection zones. Although two ambient light sensors and focusing devices are shown, more ambient light sensors and corresponding focusing devices may also be used.
[0043] refer to Figures 6A to 6B An example use of the life safety device 100 (including a light sensor, a focusing device, control circuitry, and other previously described but not shown) is provided for detecting obstacles or objects approaching the life safety device 100. Figure 6A An unobstructed life safety device 100 for a room with multiple ambient light sources 600a and 600b is shown. Figure 6AThe illustrated scenario provides one or more baseline levels of ambient light that the life safety device 100 can use as a comparison baseline. For example, in calibration mode, a first baseline can be established during daytime with windows uncovered. A second baseline can be established during daytime with windows covered. A third baseline can be established with other ambient light sources (e.g., lighting fixtures) on. In some examples, calibration mode can be performed periodically to develop various baselines for proximity detection. In some examples, AI or machine learning models can be used to improve detection by sampling multiple baselines and training the system to identify different levels or sources of ambient light, for example, based on intensity, color, or detection area, thereby allowing the life safety device 100 to detect obstacles under different lighting conditions.
[0044] Figure 6B An obstructed life safety device 100 is shown in a room with multiple ambient light sources 600a and 600b. An object 610 is shown at or within a focal length 630 of the life safety device 100 and blocking ambient light from reaching the ambient light sensor (not shown) of the life safety device 100. The closer the object 610 is to the life safety device 100, the greater its impact on the ambient light level (e.g., by blocking more ambient light). The focal length 630 can be set to a specific distance to define a predetermined proximity for, for example, detecting obstacles or objects during proximity detection mode. In some examples, the focal length can be set at a sufficient distance such that an alarm can be triggered for objects adjacent to the life safety device 100 before they become sufficiently close to affect the life safety device 100's ability to detect potential environmental hazards. For example, if an object needs to be within one inch of the life safety device 100 to affect its performance as a life safety device, it might be desirable to set the focal length to one foot or one meter to provide a buffer zone in which objects can be detected and identified as approaching the life safety device before performance is affected.
[0045] refer to Figure 7 The present disclosure provides a flowchart of an example method 700 for detecting obstacles or objects adjacent to life safety equipment based on changes in ambient light, according to an example of this disclosure. Method 700 can be constructed from any suitable element (such as...) Figures 1 to 5B The control circuit 130 shown is used to execute this. In some examples, method 700 can be performed using a control circuit 130. Figure 7 The steps shown in Method 7 may be performed in more or fewer steps, and the steps shown in Method 7 may optionally be omitted, repeated, performed in a different order, performed in parallel, or performed recursively.
[0046] At 705, a first signal from the ambient light sensor of the life safety device can be received. At 710, a baseline ambient light level of the life safety device can be determined, which is determined at least in response to the first signal received from the ambient light sensor. For convenience and not limitation, the combination of 705 and 710 may be referred to as calibration mode 701. In calibration mode 701, one or more baseline ambient light levels can be determined for one or more ambient light sensors of the life safety device 100, for example, by repeating 705 and 710 for each ambient light sensor or under different ambient light conditions (e.g., but not limited to, at different times of day, or in the presence of different ambient light sources in the environment).
[0047] At 720, a second signal from the ambient light sensor of the life safety device can be received. At 730, the second signal from the ambient light sensor can be compared with a baseline ambient light level. At 740, it can be determined whether the difference between the ambient light and the baseline indicates the presence of an object approaching the life safety device. If the determination at 740 is no, method 700 can return to 720. If the determination at 740 is yes, method 700 can continue to 750. At 750, an alarm indicating the presence of an object approaching the life safety device can be issued. For convenience and not limitation, the combination of 720, 730, 740, and 750 can be referred to as proximity detection mode 702. In some examples, for a life safety device with multiple ambient light sensors, proximity detection can be performed separately for each ambient light sensor, for example, including a first analysis for a first ambient light sensor and a second analysis for a second ambient light sensor. In other examples, proximity detection can be performed concurrently for multiple ambient light sensors, for example, by averaging the signals.
[0048] In some examples, the determination at 740 can be performed through a first analysis, for example, by determining, based on a comparison, that the difference between the ambient light and the baseline exceeds a threshold. In some examples, there may be a corresponding threshold associated with each baseline ambient light level determined at 710. In some examples, a second signal may be received from multiple ambient light sensors of the life safety device or for different zones, and the second signal may be combined (e.g., used in a weighted average manner) for comparison at 730 with a single baseline ambient light level (which may also be a weighted average of different baselines) or for determination at 740. Using an average can help improve the accuracy of proximity detection and reduce false detections.
[0049] In some examples, the second signal received at 720 may be received periodically (e.g., hourly, daily, or weekly) at a first sampling frequency. The determination at 740 may lead to a second determination performed by a more refined second analysis (not shown) before an alarm is issued at 750. The second analysis may provide a higher level of confidence in determining that an object is approaching the life safety device. The second analysis may, for example, include increasing the sampling frequency and determining whether a reduction in ambient light is detected over a certain time period. In some examples, the second analysis may include: receiving multiple signals from an ambient light sensor at a second sampling frequency over a predetermined duration, wherein the second sampling frequency is higher than the first sampling frequency (e.g., per second or per minute); and calculating an average ambient light level based on at least two of the multiple signals received at the second sampling frequency over the predetermined duration. The average ambient light level may then be compared to a baseline ambient light level to determine, based on the comparison, that the difference between the ambient light and the baseline exceeds a threshold indicating that an object is approaching the life safety device. An alarm at 750 may then be issued, at least in part, based on the second analysis. In this way, the life safety device can monitor for potential objects in the vicinity at a low sampling frequency and then increase the sampling frequency to confirm the presence of a nearby object over a certain time period. This also reduces alarms associated with transient events (such as objects or obstacles approaching within a sufficiently short timeframe), ensuring that the overall operation of life safety equipment is not significantly affected.
[0050] In some examples, if the second signal received at 720 is associated with a specific area, a determination at 740 may lead to an alarm at 750, while if the second signal received at 720 is associated with a different area, a determination at 740 may lead to a second analysis. In this way, there can be areas where further observation and analysis can be performed based on a determination at 740, and areas where an alarm can be issued immediately based on a determination at 740. For example, areas near but not directly beneath life safety equipment (e.g., in areas such as...). Figures 4B to 4C The object (in Z2 or Z3 as illustrated) may be more likely to be located below the life safety equipment (e.g., in a location such as...). Figures 4B to 4C The objects in Z1 (as illustrated in the example) receive less attention.
[0051] In some examples, the alarm issued at 750 may be an audible alarm, a visual alarm, or any other suitable alarm. In some examples, the alarm may be a message conveyed via a communication network communicatively coupled to the control circuitry of the life safety device. The communication network may be a wired communication network (e.g., but not limited to Ethernet, powerline communication, fiber optic communication) or a wireless communication network (e.g., but not limited to WiFi, Bluetooth, cellular). In some examples, the communication network may also serve as a power source for the life safety device (e.g., but not limited to Power over Ethernet or powerline communication). For example, in a system with multiple life safety devices connected via a communication network (e.g., but not limited to, in an apartment building, office building, or warehouse), the alarm may be a message conveyed to a central monitoring station or other computing device. Based on the alarm, appropriate personnel may be dispatched to check the operation of the life safety device and determine whether an object is near the life safety device, potentially impairing its operation.
[0052] In some examples, where multiple life safety devices are connected via a communication network that also supplies power to the life safety devices, different devices can perform proximity detection at different times. For example, the timing of proximity detection for life safety devices can be interleaved, allowing one or more life safety devices to perform proximity detection simultaneously. This can reduce the overall or peak power consumption of life safety devices on the network by limiting the number of devices performing proximity detection simultaneously.
[0053] refer to Figure 8A life safety device 100 is provided, which includes artificial intelligence circuitry 810 and other previously described elements. Artificial intelligence circuitry 810 (also referred to as AI circuitry 810) can be implemented in any suitable manner such as via an MCU, AFE, ASIC, FPGA, PLD, reprogrammable logic or hardware, analog circuitry, digital circuitry, digital logic, or instructions for execution by a processor, or any suitable combination thereof. In some examples, AI circuitry 810 may be communicatively coupled to control circuitry 130. In other examples, AI circuitry 810 may be integrated with control circuitry 130, as indicated by the dashed lines surrounding AI circuitry 810 and control circuitry 130. AI circuitry 810 may receive feedback via input 820 to confirm or deny the presence of an object approaching life safety device 100. AI circuitry 810 may provide updates 830 to update the logic parameters of control circuitry 130 based on input 820. In some examples, updating the logic parameters may include adjusting a weighting factor associated with the difference between ambient light and a baseline. In some examples, AI circuit 810 may employ one of several methods to learn from data or feedback and derive inferences from a data model. For example, AI circuit 810 may monitor ambient light conditions near the life safety device over a period of time and identify recurring patterns in the ambient light conditions (e.g., related to time of day or availability of different ambient light sources). In this way, AI circuit 810 may help control circuit 130 determine different baseline ambient light level thresholds for the identified different ambient light conditions. In some examples, this may be done as part of a calibration mode or another mode. For example, life safety device 100 may monitor ambient light conditions over a period of several days after initial installation, and AI circuit 810 may be used to determine appropriate baselines and thresholds for proximity detection. AI circuit 810 may also be used to update the logic parameters of control circuit 130. In some examples, AI circuit 810 may generate modified software instructions for execution by control circuit 130. In some examples, AI circuit 810 may adjust one or more weighting factors, as referenced below. Figure 9 The subject of discussion.
[0054] refer to Figure 9 A flowchart of an example method 900 is provided, which detects obstacles or objects adjacent to life safety equipment based on changes in ambient light and provides feedback. In some examples, this feedback can be used to train an AI model. Method 900 can be composed of any suitable components (such as...) Figures 1 to 5B The control circuit 130 shown is used to execute this. In some examples, method 900 can be performed using a control circuit 130. Figure 9The methods may be performed with more or fewer steps as shown, and the steps shown in Method 9 may optionally be omitted, repeated, performed in a different order, performed in parallel, or performed recursively. In some examples, the methods herein may include instructions in a computer-readable medium that, when loaded and executed by one or more control circuits (e.g., control circuit 130, artificial intelligence circuit 810, any other suitable processor, or a combination thereof), cause those control circuits to perform the method (e.g., Method 700 or Method 900). In some examples, some steps may be performed by one control circuit while others may be performed by another control circuit.
[0055] Steps 905 to 950, calibration mode 901, and proximity detection mode 902 of method 900 correspond to the corresponding steps 705 to 750, calibration mode 701, and proximity detection mode 702 of method 700 as described above, and will not be repeated for brevity. In response to an alarm issued at 950, appropriate personnel can be dispatched to check the functionality of the life safety device, check for obstacles near the life safety device, and provide feedback. At 960, input confirms or denies the presence of an obstacle or object approaching the life safety device. At 970, the logic parameters of the life safety device can be updated based on the input. For convenience and not limitation, the combination of 960 and 970 can be referred to as a learning mode. In this way, the life safety device can learn patterns indicating possible obstacles from those patterns that do not indicate possible obstacles, and the accuracy of detection can be improved. In some examples, the learning mode can help enable different life safety devices in the system to be used in different environments with ambient light conditions. The method can return to 920 to continue the periodic detection of ambient light.
[0056] In some examples, but not limited to, the logic parameters of the life safety device can be updated at 970 by generating modified software instructions for execution by control circuitry or other processors. In some examples, the logic parameters of the life safety device can be updated at 970 by adjusting weighting factors (e.g., weighting factors associated with the difference between ambient light and a baseline, which may indicate the presence of an object approaching the life safety device). In some examples, weighting factors may include factors associated with thresholds, time of day, general variations in ambient light conditions observed over time, certain patterns of variation in ambient light conditions, different ambient light sensors, different zones, weighted averages of different signals, and any other suitable factors used in detecting objects approaching the life safety device. In some examples, updating weighting factors may include increasing or decreasing the weight assigned to a particular factor when determining whether the difference between ambient light and a baseline ambient light level indicates the presence of an object or obstacle approaching the life safety device. For example, if, in response to an alarm, personnel determine that no object is approaching the life safety device, or that a detected object is not close enough to be considered an obstacle, a weighting factor may be reduced to assign less weight to a particular ambient light sensor, detection zone, or other weighting factor under certain ambient lighting conditions or patterns. As another example, if dispatchers determine the presence of an object approaching life safety equipment, weighting factors can be increased to assign more weight to specific ambient light sensors, detection zones, or other weighting factors under certain ambient lighting conditions or patterns. In this way, life safety equipment can be trained over time to provide more accurate proximity detection by increasing or decreasing the likelihood of issuing an alarm in similar conditions or patterns.
[0057] refer to Figure 11 A flowchart of an example method 1100 for detecting obstacles or objects adjacent to life safety equipment based on changes in ambient light is provided. In some examples, certain aspects of method 1100 may be implemented similarly to corresponding aspects of methods 700 or 900. In some examples, method 1100 may be used with... Figure 11The steps shown in method 11 may be performed with more or fewer steps, and the steps shown in method 11 may optionally be omitted, repeated, performed in a different order, performed in parallel, or performed recursively. At 1105, a first signal from the ambient light sensor of the life safety device may be received. At 1110, a baseline ambient light level of the life safety device may be determined, which is determined at least in response to the first signal received from the ambient light sensor. For convenience and not limitation, the combination of 1105 and 1110 may be referred to as calibration mode 1101. In calibration mode 1101, one or more baseline ambient light levels may be determined for one or more ambient light sensors of the life safety device 100, for example, by repeating 1105 and 1110 for each ambient light sensor or under different ambient light conditions (e.g., but not limited to, at different times of day, or in the presence of different ambient light sources in the environment).
[0058] At 1120, a second signal from the ambient light sensor of the life safety device may be received at a first sampling frequency (e.g., hourly, daily, or weekly). At 1130, the second signal from the ambient light sensor may be compared with a baseline ambient light level. At 1140, a first analysis may determine whether a first difference between the ambient light and the baseline indicates the presence of an object approaching the life safety device. In some examples, the first analysis at 1140 may include determining, based on the comparison, that the difference between the ambient light and the baseline exceeds a threshold. If the determination at 1140 is negative, method 1100 may return to 1120. If the determination at 1140 is positive, method 1100 may proceed to 1141. At 1141, a plurality of third signals from the ambient light sensor of the life safety device may be received at a second sampling frequency (e.g., per second or per minute) higher than the first sampling frequency. At 1142, an average ambient light level may be calculated based on at least two of the plurality of third signals received at the second sampling frequency at 1141. At 1143, the calculated average ambient light level from 1142 can be compared with the baseline ambient light level. At 1144, a second analysis can determine whether a second difference between the ambient light and the baseline ambient light level indicates the presence of an object approaching the life safety device. In this way, method 1100 may include increasing the sampling frequency and determining whether a reduction in ambient light is detected within a certain time period. If the determination at 1144 is no, method 1100 may return to 1120. If the determination at 1144 is yes, method 1100 may proceed to 1150. At 1150, an alarm indicating the presence of an object approaching the life safety device may be issued. For convenience and not limitation, combinations of 1120, 1130, 1140, 1141, 1142, 1143, 1144, and 1150 may be referred to as proximity detection mode 1102. In this way, the life safety device can monitor for potential objects nearby at a low sampling frequency and then increase the sampling frequency to confirm the presence of a nearby object within a certain time period. This also reduces alarms associated with transient events (such as objects or obstacles approaching within a sufficiently short timeframe), ensuring that the overall operation of life safety equipment is not significantly affected.
[0059] In some examples, a corresponding threshold may exist associated with each baseline ambient light level determined at 1110. In some examples, a second signal may be received from multiple ambient light sensors of the life safety device or for different zones, and the second signal may be combined (e.g., in a weighted average manner) for comparison with a single baseline ambient light level at comparison 1130 (which may also be a weighted average of different baselines) or for determination at 1140. Using an average can help improve the accuracy of proximity detection and reduce false detections.
[0060] refer to Figure 12 A flowchart of an example method 1200 for detecting obstacles or objects adjacent to life safety equipment based on changes in ambient light using multiple ambient light sensors is provided. Steps 1205 to 1250 of method 1200 correspond to the corresponding steps 705 to 750 of method 700 as described above for a first ambient light sensor, and are not repeated for brevity. For example, when multiple ambient light sensors are present, the determination at 1240 may be referred to as the first analysis. In some examples, method 1200 can use a comparison Figure 12 The steps shown in method 12 may be performed with more or fewer steps, and the steps shown in method 12 may optionally be omitted, repeated, performed in a different order, performed in parallel, or performed recursively. At 1260, it can be determined whether a second ambient light sensor for life safety equipment is present, for example, as for... Figure 5A and Figure 5BAs shown and described herein. If the second ambient light sensor is not present at 1260, method 1200 may return to 1220 and continue monitoring for objects or obstacles approaching the life safety device, as described herein. If the second ambient light sensor is present at 1260, method 1200 may proceed to 1206. At 1206, an initial signal may be received from the second ambient light sensor of the life safety device; for convenience, this initial signal may be referred to as the third signal. Step 1206 may be implemented similarly to step 1205 for the first ambient light sensor. At 1211, a second baseline ambient light level of the life safety device may be determined based on the third signal from the second ambient light sensor. Step 1211 may be implemented similarly to step 1210 for the first ambient light sensor. At 1221, a fourth signal may be received from the second ambient light sensor of the life safety device. Step 1221 may be implemented similarly to step 1220 for the first ambient light sensor. At 1231, the fourth signal from the second ambient light sensor may be compared with the second baseline ambient light level. Step 1231 can be implemented similarly to step 1230 for the first ambient light sensor. At 1241, a second analysis (relative to the first analysis at 1240) can determine whether a second difference between the ambient light and a second baseline indicates the presence of an object approaching the life safety device. If determined to be no, method 1200 can return to 1221 for the second ambient light sensor. If determined to be yes, method 1200 can proceed to 1251. At 1251, an alarm indicating the presence of an object approaching the life safety device can be issued, at least in part, based on the second analysis at 1241. In some examples, the determinations at 1240 and 1241 can be combined to issue a single combined alarm at 1250 and 1251. In some examples, signals can be received at 1220 and 1221 from multiple ambient light sensors of the life safety device or for different zones, and these signals can be combined (e.g., used in a weighted average manner) for comparison with a single baseline ambient light level, which can also be a weighted average of different baselines. Using average values can help improve the accuracy of proximity detection and reduce false detections.
[0061] Additional modes may also be included in any of methods 700, 900, 1100, and 1200. As an example, a hazard detection mode may include: receiving a signal from an environmental sensor indicating the presence of an environmental hazard; and issuing an alarm in response to the signal received from the environmental sensor to indicate the presence of an environmental hazard. This may be useful, for example, when the same control circuitry is used for both hazard detection and proximity detection. Different modes may operate separately from other modes or concurrently with other modes (e.g., a proximity detection mode may operate concurrently with a hazard detection mode). The different modes mentioned herein are intended to help describe the operation of life safety devices in various aspects and examples of this disclosure, and are not intended to limit how these modes are implemented. For example, the calibration, proximity detection, and learning modes mentioned herein may be executed by programming logic performed by control circuitry, without limiting how such programming logic is implemented, organized, or structured. Various programming languages and compilation methods may be used. The programming logic may be organized or constructed as a single software program, a software module, or a software function with function calls, or any other suitable organization or structure.
[0062] In some aspects, an article of manufacture comprising a non-transitory machine-readable medium including instructions that, when loaded and executed by control circuitry of a life safety device, cause the control circuitry to perform various methods of the life safety device as described in this disclosure (e.g., Figure 7 , Figure 9 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 (Methods) and other functions.
[0063] Embodiments of this disclosure may include an apparatus. The apparatus may include a power circuit and at least one control circuit powered by the power circuit. The power circuit may receive power from a power source of a life safety device. The control circuit may be in a calibration mode: receiving a first signal from a first ambient light sensor; and determining a first baseline ambient light level based on the first signal from the first ambient light sensor. The at least one control circuit may be in a proximity detection mode: receiving a second signal from the first ambient light sensor; comparing the second signal from the first ambient light sensor with the first baseline ambient light level; determining, through a first analysis, a first difference between the ambient light and the first baseline ambient light level indicating the presence of an object approaching the life safety device; and issuing an alarm indicating the presence of the object approaching the life safety device, at least in part based on the first analysis.
[0064] In conjunction with any of the above embodiments, the proximity to the life safety device can be defined by the focal length of the focal device covering the first ambient light sensor.
[0065] In conjunction with any of the embodiments described above, the focusing device may have a predetermined focal length of one meter or less.
[0066] In conjunction with any of the embodiments described above, the focusing device may include a wide-angle lens, a Fresnel lens, a light tube, or a combination thereof.
[0067] In conjunction with any of the embodiments described above, the focusing device can provide a first proximity detection area and a second proximity detection area for the ambient light sensor.
[0068] In conjunction with any of the above embodiments, in this calibration mode, the device and control circuitry can receive a first signal from a second ambient light sensor, which is positioned at a different location relative to the life safety device than the first ambient light sensor. The control circuitry can determine a second baseline ambient light level based on the first signal from the second ambient light sensor. In this proximity detection mode, the control circuitry can: receive a second signal from the second ambient light sensor; compare the second signal from the second ambient light sensor with the second baseline ambient light level; determine, through a second analysis, that a second difference between the ambient light and the second baseline ambient light level indicates the presence of an object approaching the life safety device; and issue an alarm indicating the presence of an object approaching the life safety device, at least in part based on the second analysis.
[0069] In conjunction with any of the above embodiments, the proximity to the life safety device can be defined as follows: for the first ambient light sensor, the first focal length of the first focal device covering the first ambient light sensor; and for the second ambient light sensor, the second focal length of the second focal device covering the second ambient light sensor, the second focal length being different from the first focal length.
[0070] In conjunction with any of the above embodiments, the control circuit can determine, in the proximity detection mode, the presence of an object approaching the life safety device by a second analysis indicating a second difference between the ambient light and the first baseline ambient light level, wherein the second signal from the first ambient light sensor is received at a first sampling frequency. The second analysis may include: receiving a plurality of third signals from the first ambient light sensor at a second sampling frequency higher than the first sampling frequency; calculating an average ambient light level based on at least two of the plurality of third signals received at the second sampling frequency; and comparing the average ambient light level with the first baseline ambient light level, wherein an alarm indicating the presence of an object approaching the life safety device is issued at least in part based on the second analysis.
[0071] In conjunction with any of the above embodiments, the device may include at least one artificial intelligence circuit communicatively coupled to the at least one control circuit, wherein in a learning mode, the artificial intelligence circuit is configured to: receive input to confirm or deny the presence of an object approaching the life safety device; and update the logic parameters of the control circuit based on the input.
[0072] In conjunction with any of the embodiments described above, updating the logic parameter may include adjusting the weighting factor associated with the difference between ambient light and the baseline.
[0073] Embodiments of this disclosure may include methods performed by any of the embodiments described above, or may include an article of manufacture comprising a machine-readable medium including instructions that, when loaded and executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform any of the methods described above or the functionality of the methods described above.
[0074] While this disclosure has been described with respect to certain exemplary embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize and understand that the invention is not limited thereto. Rather, additions, deletions, and modifications may be made to the exemplary and described embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure and the aspects claimed below, as well as their legal equivalents. Furthermore, features from one embodiment may be combined with features from another embodiment while still being covered within the scope of this disclosure as contemplated and described.
Claims
1. An apparatus, the apparatus comprising: A power circuit for receiving power from a power source of a life safety device; At least one control circuit, said at least one control circuit being powered by the power circuit to: In calibration mode: Receive a first signal from the first ambient light sensor; A first baseline ambient light level is determined based on the first signal from the first ambient light sensor; In proximity detection mode: Receive the second signal from the first ambient light sensor; The second signal from the first ambient light sensor is compared with the first baseline ambient light level; The first analysis determines that a first difference between the ambient light and the first baseline ambient light level indicates the presence of an object approaching the life safety device; as well as An alarm is issued, at least in part, based on the first analysis, indicating the presence of an object approaching the life safety device.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the proximity to the life safety device is defined by the focal length of the focal device covering the first ambient light sensor.
3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the focusing device has a predetermined focal length of one meter or less.
4. The apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 3, wherein the focusing device comprises a wide-angle lens, a Fresnel lens, a light tube, or a combination thereof.
5. The apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the focusing device provides a first proximity detection area and a second proximity detection area for the ambient light sensor.
6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the apparatus comprises: In the calibration mode: The first signal is received from a second ambient light sensor, which is positioned at a different location from the first ambient light sensor relative to the life safety device. The second baseline ambient light level is determined based on the first signal from the second ambient light sensor; In the proximity detection mode: Receive a second signal from the second ambient light sensor; The second signal from the second ambient light sensor is compared with the second baseline ambient light level; The second analysis determines a second difference between the ambient light level and the second baseline ambient light level, indicating the presence of the object approaching the life safety device. as well as The alarm is issued, at least in part, based on the second analysis, indicating the presence of the object approaching the life safety device.
7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the proximity to the life safety equipment is defined as follows: For the first ambient light sensor, the first focal length of the first focal device covering the first ambient light sensor; and For the second ambient light sensor, the second focal length of the second focal device covering the second ambient light sensor is different from the first focal length.
8. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the apparatus comprises: In the proximity detection mode: The second signal from the first ambient light sensor is received at a first sampling frequency; A second analysis determines, through a second analysis, that a second difference between ambient light and the first baseline ambient light level indicates the presence of an object approaching the life safety device, wherein the second analysis includes: Multiple third signals are received from the first ambient light sensor at a second sampling frequency, wherein the second sampling frequency is higher than the first sampling frequency; The average ambient light level is calculated based on at least two of the plurality of third signals received at the second sampling frequency; The average ambient light level is compared with the first baseline ambient light level; and The alarm is issued based at least in part on the second analysis, indicating the presence of the object approaching the life safety device.
9. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the apparatus comprises: An artificial intelligence circuit, which is communicatively coupled to the at least one control circuit; In learning mode, the artificial intelligence circuit is used for: Receive input to confirm or deny the presence of an object approaching the life safety device; and The logic parameters of the control circuit are updated based on the input.
10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein updating the logic parameter includes adjusting a weighting factor associated with the difference between ambient light and the baseline.
11. A method, the method comprising: In calibration mode: Receive the first signal from the first ambient light sensor of the life safety equipment; The first baseline ambient light level of the life safety device is determined based on the first signal from the first ambient light sensor; In proximity detection mode: Receive the second signal from the first ambient light sensor; The second signal from the first ambient light sensor is compared with the first baseline ambient light level; A first analysis determines that a first difference between the ambient light and the first baseline ambient light level indicates the presence of an object approaching the life safety device, the proximity being defined by the focal length of the focal device covering the first ambient light sensor; and An alarm is issued, at least in part, based on the first analysis, indicating the presence of an object approaching the life safety device.
12. The method according to claim 11, wherein the method comprises: In the proximity detection mode: The second signal from the first ambient light sensor is received at a first sampling frequency; Multiple third signals are received from the first ambient light sensor at a second sampling frequency, wherein the second sampling frequency is higher than the first sampling frequency; The average ambient light level is calculated based on at least two of the plurality of third signals received at the second sampling frequency; The average ambient light level is compared with the first baseline ambient light level; The second analysis determines a second difference between the ambient light and the first baseline ambient light level, indicating the presence of the object approaching the life safety device. as well as The alarm is issued, at least in part, based on the second analysis, indicating the presence of the object approaching the life safety device.
13. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 12, the method comprising: In learning mode: Receive input to confirm or deny the presence of an object approaching the life safety device; as well as The logical parameters of the life safety device are updated based on the input.
14. The method of claim 13, wherein updating the logical parameters of the life safety device includes adjusting a weighting factor associated with the difference between ambient light and the baseline.
15. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 14, the method comprising: In the calibration mode: The third signal is received from the second ambient light sensor, which is located at a different position from the first ambient light sensor relative to the life safety device. The second baseline ambient light level is determined based on the third signal from the second ambient light sensor; In the proximity detection mode: Receive a fourth signal from the second ambient light sensor; The fourth signal from the second ambient light sensor is compared with the second baseline ambient light level; The second analysis determines a second difference between the ambient light level and the second baseline ambient light level, indicating the presence of the object approaching the life safety device. as well as The alarm is issued, at least in part, based on the second analysis, indicating the presence of the object approaching the life safety device.
16. An article of manufacture comprising a non-transitory machine-readable medium, the medium including instructions that, when loaded and executed by one or more control circuits of a life safety device, cause the one or more control circuits to: In calibration mode: Receive a first signal from the first ambient light sensor; A first baseline ambient light level is determined based on the first signal from the first ambient light sensor; In proximity detection mode: Receive the second signal from the first ambient light sensor; The second signal from the first ambient light sensor is compared with the first baseline ambient light level; The first analysis determines that a first difference between the ambient light and the first baseline ambient light level indicates the presence of an object approaching the life safety device; as well as An alarm is issued, at least in part, based on the first analysis, indicating the presence of an object approaching the life safety device.
17. The article of manufacture according to claim 16, wherein the instructions cause the one or more control circuits to: In the proximity detection mode: The second signal from the first ambient light sensor is received at a first sampling frequency; A second analysis determines, through a second analysis, that a second difference between ambient light and the first baseline ambient light level indicates the presence of an object approaching the life safety device, wherein the second analysis includes: Multiple third signals are received from the first ambient light sensor at a second sampling frequency, wherein the second sampling frequency is higher than the first sampling frequency; The average ambient light level is calculated based on at least two of the plurality of third signals received at the second sampling frequency; Compare the average ambient light level with the first baseline ambient light level; and The alarm is issued, at least in part, based on the second analysis, indicating the presence of the object approaching the life safety device.
18. The article of manufacture according to any one of claims 16 to 17, wherein the instructions cause the one or more control circuits to: In learning mode: Receive input to confirm or deny the presence of an object approaching the life safety device; and The logical parameters of the life safety device are updated based on the input.
19. The article of manufacture of claim 18, wherein updating the logic parameters of the life safety device includes adjusting a weighting factor associated with the difference between ambient light and the baseline.
20. The article of manufacture according to any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein the instructions cause the one or more control circuits to: In the calibration mode: The first signal is received from a second ambient light sensor, which is positioned at a different location from the first ambient light sensor relative to the life safety device. The second baseline ambient light level is determined based on the first signal from the second ambient light sensor; In the proximity detection mode: Receive a second signal from the second ambient light sensor; The second signal from the second ambient light sensor is compared with the second baseline ambient light level; The second analysis determines a second difference between the ambient light level and the second baseline ambient light level, indicating the presence of the object approaching the life safety device. as well as The alarm is issued, at least in part, based on the second analysis, indicating the presence of the object approaching the life safety device.