Fire detection system - fire threat modeling based on floor plan

Abstract

A method of determining a probability of a fire occurring in one or more rooms of a building, comprising: determining a geometry of a room in response to a floor plan; determining whether one or more items are located within the room and a combustibility of each of the one or more items; determining whether one or more hazards are located within the room; and determining a probability of a fire occurring in the room in response to at least one or more items being located within the room, the combustibility of each of the one or more items, and the one or more hazards being located within the room.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The topics disclosed in this article generally relate to the field of fire detection systems, and in particular to equipment and methods for designing fire detection systems. Background Technology

[0002] Conventional building fire detection systems consist of distributed components that must be designed, labeled, installed, and used according to requirements and regulations. The design process is also a major determinant of the total system cost. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to one embodiment, a method is provided for determining the probability of a fire occurring in one or more rooms of a building. The method includes: determining the geometry of the room in response to a floor plan; determining whether one or more items are located in the room and the flammability of each of the one or more items; determining whether one or more hazards are located in the room; and determining the probability of a fire occurring in the room in response to the presence of at least one or more items in the room, the flammability of each of the one or more items, and the presence of the one or more hazards in the room.

[0004] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, further embodiments may include: determining the geometry of a second room in response to a floor plan; determining whether one or more items are located in the second room and the flammability of each of the one or more items; determining whether one or more hazards are located in the second room; determining the probability of a fire occurring in the second room in response to the presence of at least one or more items in the second room, the flammability of each of the one or more items, and the presence of the one or more hazards in the second room; and adjusting the probability of a fire occurring in the room in response to the probability of a fire occurring in the second room.

[0005] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, further implementations may include statistically determining the probability of a fire in response to historical data.

[0006] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, further implementations may include: determining the location and type of one or more evacuation points within the room; determining the accessibility of each of the one or more evacuation points within the room; and adjusting the probability of a fire occurring in the room in response to the location and type of the one or more evacuation points within the room.

[0007] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, further implementations may include: determining one or more fire extinguishing devices in the room in response to the probability of a fire.

[0008] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, further implementations may include: generating a map of the room on a computing device, the map showing the probability of a fire occurring in the room.

[0009] According to another embodiment, a system is provided for determining the probability of a fire occurring in one or more rooms of a building. The system includes: a processor; and a memory including computer-executable instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform operations including: determining the geometry of a room in response to a floor plan; determining whether one or more items are located in the room and the flammability of each of the one or more items; determining whether one or more hazards are located in the room; and determining the probability of a fire occurring in the room in response to at least one or more items being located in the room, the flammability of each of the one or more items, and the presence of the one or more hazards in the room.

[0010] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, further embodiments may include the operation further comprising: determining the geometry of a second room in response to a floor plan; determining whether one or more items are located in the second room and the flammability of each of the one or more items; determining whether one or more hazards are located in the second room; determining the probability of a fire occurring in the second room in response to the presence of at least one or more items in the second room, the flammability of each of the one or more items, and the presence of the one or more hazards in the second room; and adjusting the probability of a fire occurring in the room in response to the probability of a fire occurring in the second room.

[0011] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, further implementations may include the probability of a fire being statistically determined in response to historical data.

[0012] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, further implementations may include the operation further comprising: determining the location and type of one or more evacuation points within the room; determining the accessibility of each of the one or more evacuation points within the room; and adjusting the probability of a fire occurring in the room in response to the location and type of the one or more evacuation points within the room.

[0013] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, further implementations may include the operation further comprising: determining one or more fire extinguishing devices in the room in response to the probability of a fire.

[0014] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, further implementations may include the operation further comprising: generating a map of the room on a computing device, the map showing the probability of a fire occurring in the room.

[0015] According to another embodiment, a computer program product tangibly embodied on a computer-readable medium is provided. The computer program product includes instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform operations including: determining the geometry of a room in response to a floor plan; determining whether one or more items are located in the room and the flammability of each of the one or more items; determining whether one or more hazards are located in the room; and determining the probability of a fire occurring in the room in response to the presence of at least one or more items in the room, the flammability of each of the one or more items, and the presence of the one or more hazards in the room.

[0016] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, further embodiments may include the operation further comprising: determining the geometry of a second room in response to a floor plan; determining whether one or more items are located in the second room and the flammability of each of the one or more items; determining whether one or more hazards are located in the second room; determining the probability of a fire occurring in the second room in response to the presence of at least one or more items in the second room, the flammability of each of the one or more items, and the presence of the one or more hazards in the second room; and adjusting the probability of a fire occurring in the room in response to the probability of a fire occurring in the second room.

[0017] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, further implementations may include the probability of a fire being statistically determined in response to historical data.

[0018] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, further implementations may include the operation further comprising: determining the location and type of one or more evacuation points within the room; determining the accessibility of each of the one or more evacuation points within the room; and adjusting the probability of a fire occurring in the room in response to the location and type of the one or more evacuation points within the room.

[0019] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, further implementations may include the operation further comprising: determining one or more fire extinguishing devices in the room in response to the probability of a fire.

[0020] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, further implementations may include the operation further comprising: generating a map of the room on a computing device, the map showing the probability of a fire occurring in the room.

[0021] The technical effects of the embodiments disclosed herein include the automatic design of fire detection systems in response to building plans and known constraints.

[0022] Unless otherwise expressly indicated, the above features and elements can be combined in various non-exclusive combinations. These features and elements, and their operation, will become more apparent from the following description and accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that the following description and accompanying drawings are intended to be illustrative and interpretative in nature, rather than limiting. Attached Figure Description

[0023] The following description should not be considered limiting in any way. Referring to the accompanying drawings, identical elements are numbered the same:

[0024] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a system for designing a fire detection system according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0025] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a fire detection system planning tool according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0026] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a fire threat modeling tool according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0027] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the placement tool for a fire detection system device according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0028] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the placement tool for a fire detection system device according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0029] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for designing a fire detection system according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0030] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a fire marking system according to an embodiment of this disclosure; and

[0031] Figure 8This is a flowchart illustrating a method for guiding individuals to evacuation points during a fire, according to an embodiment of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0032] This document presents a detailed description of one or more embodiments of the disclosed apparatus and methods by way of illustration and without limitation, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0033] Now refer to Figure 1 , Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a system 100 for designing a fire detection system 20 is shown. It should be understood that although specific systems are defined individually in the schematic block diagram, each or any of these systems may be combined or separated via hardware and / or software. In one embodiment, system 100 for designing a fire detection system 20 may be a network-based system. In another embodiment, system 100 for designing a fire detection system 20 may be a residential system for a home / residential building. For example, system 100 allows a self-service (DIY) user to design fire detection for their home via a tablet or any other computer device.

[0034] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a fire detection system 20 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is also shown. The fire detection system 20 is an example, and the embodiments disclosed herein can be applied to other fire detection systems not shown herein. The fire detection system 20 includes one or more fire detection devices 30, one or more fire extinguishing devices 40, and one or more fire escape ladder devices 50. The fire detection devices 30, fire extinguishing devices 40, and fire escape ladder devices 50 may be located in various rooms 64 of the building 62. Figure 1 Figure 60 shows a single floor 61 of building 62. It should be understood that although only one fire detection device 30, one fire extinguishing device 40 and one fire escape device 50 are shown in building 62, the fire detection system may include any number of fire detection devices 30, fire extinguishing devices 40 and fire escape devices 50.

[0035] Fire detection device 30 may be a smoke detector, CO2 detector, CO detector, thermal sensor, or any other fire detector known to those skilled in the art. Fire extinguishing device 40 may be a fire extinguisher, fire sand, fire hose, fire blanket, or any other fire extinguishing device known to those skilled in the art. Fire escape device 50 may be a fire ladder, fire axe, fire exit signal, or any other fire escape device known to those skilled in the art.

[0036] As discussed below, system 10 is configured to determine the placement of fire detection devices 30 of fire detection system 20 in room 64; determine the placement of fire extinguishing devices 40 of fire detection system 20 in room 64; and determine fire escape devices 50 in room 64. System 10 is configured to determine whether the placement of any of the fire detection devices 30, fire extinguishing devices 40, and fire escape devices 50 violates any constraints and then generates a diagram 60 showing the location of each fire detection device 30, each fire extinguishing device 40, and each fire escape device 50.

[0037] System 10 includes multiple inputs 110 that are entered into design engine 130, which is configured to determine output 140 in response to the inputs 110. Inputs 110 can be entered manually, such as by customer 102 and / or customer representative 104 via a computing device. Inputs 110 can also be entered automatically, such as by customer 102 and / or customer representative 104 scanning the inputs or sending them via email.

[0038] Input 110 can include, but is not limited to, building information 112 and building requirements 114, such as... Figure 1 As shown. Building information 112 may include, but is not limited to: floor plan 112a of the building 62 where the fire detection system 20 will be located, address 112b of the building 62 where the fire detection system 20 will be located, number of occupants 112c of the building 62 where the fire detection system 20 will be located, typical building use 112d of the building 62 where the fire detection system 20 will be located, type of items 112e within the building 62 where the fire detection system 20 will be located, type of hazard 112f within the building 62 where the fire detection system 20 will be located, evacuation points 112g within the building 62 where the fire detection system 20 will be located, and current / proposed device location 112h. It should be understood that input 110 is an example and additional inputs 110 may exist for use in system 100, therefore embodiments of this disclosure are not limited to the listed inputs 110.

[0039] The floor plan 112a of the building 62 where the fire detection system 20 will be located may include details about the floors 61 of the building 62, including but not limited to: the number of floors 61 in the building 62, the layout of each floor 61 in the building 62, the number of rooms 64 on each floor 61 in the building 62, the height of each room 64, the organization / connectivity of each room 64 on each floor 61 in the building 62, the number of doors 80 in each room 64, the location of the doors 80 in each room 64, the number of windows 90 in each room 64, the location of the windows 90 in each room 64, the number of heating and ventilation openings in each room 64, the location of the heating and ventilation openings in each room 64, the number of electrical outlets in each room 64, and the location of the electrical outlets in each room 64. The address 112b of the building 62 where the fire detection system 20 will be located may include but is not limited to: the street address of the building 62, the geographical location of the building 62, the climate zone in which the building 62 is located, and objects surrounding the building 62 (e.g., water, trees, mountains).

[0040] The number of occups 112c located in the building 62 that the fire detection system 20 will detect may include, but is not limited to, the number of current occups in the building 62 and details about the type of occups (e.g., children, adults, elderly). Additionally, the number of occups 112c may be updated in real time or may be predicted. The typical building use 112d of the building 62 that the fire detection system 20 will detect may include what the building 62 is used for, such as, for example, residential, laboratory space, manufacturing, machining, processing, office space, sports, school, etc. The type of items 112e within the building 62 that the fire detection system 20 will detect may include details about the objects within the building 62 and the known flammability of each object, such as, for example, if the building 62 is used to store flammable furniture or paper. The type of hazard 112f within the building 62 that the fire detection system 20 will detect may include a detailed list of hazards within the building 62 and where the hazards are located. For example, the type of hazard 112f may state that an accelerator (e.g., gasoline) is stored in a workspace on the second floor 61. In another example, the type of hazard 112f may include room 64 primarily used as an office, where the main components are electronic components (e.g., electronic components that are potential sources of ignition) and inert components (e.g., accelerators). The type of evacuation points 112g within building 62 where fire detection system 20 is located may include a detailed list of evacuation points 112g within building 62, at which individuals can evacuate building 62. For example, the type of evacuation points may be windows 90 and doors 80.

[0041] The device location 112h can be the current or proposed location of the fire detection device 30, the fire extinguishing device 40, and the fire escape device 50. The design engine 130 can analyze the device location 112h to determine the device location correctness 140d. For example, the design engine 130 can receive the actual state of the fire detection system 20 design (which can be manually entered by the user) as input and can display prohibited / incorrect components and improvement suggestions, which the user can use as guidance or directly accept all suggestions.

[0042] Building requirement 114 may include, but is not limited to, building system requirement 114a for the building 62 where fire detection system 20 will be located, and the expected certification level 114b for the building 62 where fire detection system 20 will be located. Building system requirement 114a may include, but is not limited to, the type of fire detection system required and / or expected by building 62. Expected certification level 114b may include laws, ordinances, regulations, city certification requirements (e.g., local regulations), national certification requirements (e.g., national laws and regulations), federal certification requirements (e.g., federal laws and regulations), association certification requirements, industry standard certification requirements, and / or trade association certification requirements (e.g., the National Fire Protection Association).

[0043] Input 110 is provided to design engine 130. Design engine 130 may be local, remote, and / or cloud-based. Design engine 130 may be Software as a Service. Design engine 130 may be a computing device including a processor and associated memory, the memory including computer-executable instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform various operations. The processor may be, but is not limited to, a single-processor or multi-processor system having any of a wide array of possible architectures, including uniformly or non-uniformly arranged field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), central processing units (CPUs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), or graphics processing units (GPUs) hardware. Memory may be, but is not limited to, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), or other electronic, optical, magnetic, or any other computer-readable medium.

[0044] Design engine 130 is configured to analyze input 110 in response to input 130 to determine threat model 200, fire detection system device placement 300, consistency check 400, and fire marking system 500. Design engine 130 can analyze input 110 in an autonomous and / or semi-autonomous manner. For example, in a semi-autonomous manner, design engine 130 can generate multiple different fire threat models 200, fire detection system device placement 300, consistency check 400, and fire marking system 500 for human users (e.g., designers) to review, adjust, and / or select. In another instance, in an autonomous manner, design engine 130 can determine a single optimal option or multiple optimal options for fire threat model 200, fire detection system device placement 300, consistency check 400, and fire marking system 500 to then present to a human user.

[0045] Design engine 130 can organize fire threat model 200, fire detection system device placement 300, consistency check 400, and fire marking system 500 into output 140. Output 140 may also include a fire detection system device list 140a, a fire detection system device location list 140b for each component on the fire detection system device list 140a, a fire detection system device specification 140c for each component on the fire detection system device list 140a, and device location correctness 140d.

[0046] System 10 may also include or communicate with a fire detection system device database 150. The fire detection system device database 150 may include details and specifications of devices that can be used in the fire detection system 20. The fire detection system device database 150 may be a single central repository that is updated periodically or in real time. The fire detection system device database 150 may also be linked in real time to external databases, such as, for example, an online supplier database of components for the fire detection system 20. The fire detection system device database 150 may include a fire detection device database 150a, a fire extinguishing device database 150b, and a fire escape device database 150c.

[0047] The fire detection device database 150a may include information such as the types of fire detection devices 30 that can be used and the performance characteristics of each fire detection device 30. The fire detection device database 150a may also include specifications / datasheets of installation constraints, as this may include preferred placement locations, prohibited locations, and / or recommended distances from potential fire sources or false alarm sources. For example, a smoke detector may not be installed in a bathroom because it could trigger a false alarm due to steam; a smoke detector may be installed in a kitchen at a distance of not less than 3 meters and not more than 5 meters from a fire source (cook / stove) to avoid delayed detection; the device should not be placed less than 30 cm from the ceiling, or preferably placed closer to the ceiling than the ground. In another example, in the case of ceiling placement, the device should not be placed less than X cm from a wall or any obstruction. Other information stored in the fire detection device database 150a may include whether the device is battery powered or whether the device requires a socket / what type of socket / plug. The fire extinguishing device database 150b may include information such as the types of fire extinguishing devices 40 that can be used, the performance characteristics of each fire extinguishing device 40, and the preferred installation locations of the fire extinguishing devices 40. The performance characteristics of the fire extinguishing device 40 may include the effectiveness of each fire extinguishing device 40 against different types of fires (e.g., chemical fires, electrical fires, paper fires, etc.). For example, the preferred installation location for a portable fire extinguisher may be an easily accessible location, no more than X cm away from a potential ignition source. The fire escape database 150c may include information such as the type of fire escape device 50, restrictions on the placement of the fire escape device 50 (e.g., fire escape ladders should be positioned near windows 90), and the performance characteristics of each fire escape device 50.

[0048] Now refer to Figure 2 Continue to refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 A fire detection system planning tool 310, operable by a user via a computing device 302, is illustrated. The fire detection system planning tool 310 may be a software application associated with a design engine 130. For example, the fire detection system planning tool 310 may be a website or application. The computing device 302 may be a desktop computer, laptop computer, smartphone, tablet computer, smartwatch, or any other computing device known to those skilled in the art. Figure 2 In the example shown, computing device 302 is a tablet computer. Computing device 302 may include a display screen 304 and an input device 306, such as, for example, a mouse, touchscreen, scroll wheel, scroll ball, stylus, microphone, camera, etc. Figure 2 In the example shown, since the computing device 302 is a tablet computer, the display screen 304 can also act as an input device 306.

[0049] The fire detection system planning tool 310 is configured to assist designers / users throughout the design process of the fire detection system 20 by providing real-time feedback during the design process. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the fire detection system planning tool 310 can design the fire detection system 20 autonomously and / or semi-autonomously via the design engine 130. Users can use the fire detection system planning tool 310 to input input 110 into the system 100. Once the fire detection system 20 is designed, the fire detection system planning tool 310 can generate a performance report 330, which users can use to evaluate the design of the fire detection system 20. The performance report 330 can evaluate the overall design of the fire detection system 20 and publish an analysis of the design at 331, such as "perfectly consistent" at 301 (e.g., perfectly consistent with all constraints), "poor design" at 302, or "lacking consistency" at 303 (e.g., not perfectly consistent with all constraints). The performance report 330 can evaluate various aspects of the design of the fire detection system 20.

[0050] Performance report 330 may assess the placement 332 of each of the fire detection device 30, fire extinguishing device 40, and fire escape device 50. Performance report 330 may indicate the effectiveness of the placement 332 of at least one of the fire detection device 30, fire extinguishing device 40, and fire escape device 50. Effective placement would mean that the fire detection device 30, fire extinguishing device 40, and fire escape device 50 do not violate guidelines, such as, for example, building requirement 114. Ineffective placement would mean that at least one of the fire detection device 30, fire extinguishing device 40, and fire escape device 50 violates guidelines, such as, for example, building requirement 114. Placement effectiveness 332 may also include an explanation 332a for ineffective placement, such as, for example, “smoke detector in bathroom,” “CO detector in closet,” or “smoke detector in garage.” Performance report 330 may indicate the effectiveness of placement 332, showing whether the placement is legal.

[0051] Performance report 330 may assess the possible critical locations 334 of each of the fire detection device 30, fire extinguishing device 40, and fire escape device 50. Critical locations 334 may be required by law. Performance report 330 may indicate whether the critical location 334 of at least one of the fire detection device 30, fire extinguishing device 40, and fire escape device 50 is protected. Performance report 330 may indicate all critical locations 334 covered by the fire detection device 30, fire extinguishing device 40, and fire escape device 50, as shown at locations 301 and 302. Performance report 330 may indicate all critical locations 334 not covered by the fire detection device 30, fire extinguishing device 40, and fire escape device 50, as shown at location 303. Performance report 330 may also include an overview 334a of the critical locations 334, such as... Figure 2As shown.

[0052] Performance report 330 can assess the possible locations 336 of each of the fire detection device 30, fire extinguishing device 40, and fire escape device 50. Performance report 330 can indicate whether the location 336 of at least one of the fire detection device 30, fire extinguishing device 40, and fire escape device 50 is covered. Performance report 330 can indicate all locations 336 of the fire detection device 30, fire extinguishing device 40, and fire escape device 50 that are covered, as shown at 301 and 302. Performance report 330 can indicate all locations 336 of the fire detection device 30, fire extinguishing device 40, and fire escape device 50 that are not covered, as shown at 303. Performance report 330 may also include an overview 336a of the locations 336, such as... Figure 2 As shown.

[0053] Performance Report 330 can also provide users with the option to automatically redesign Fire Detection System 20 at 340 or manually redesign Fire Detection System 20 at 350. Once Fire Detection System 20 has been redesigned, Performance Report 330 will run again to re-evaluate Fire Detection System 20.

[0054] Now refer to Figure 3 Continue to refer to Figures 1 to 2 , Figure 3 It shows Figure 1 Fire threat model 200. Figure 3 A fire threat modeling tool 210, operable by a user via computing device 302, is illustrated. The fire threat modeling tool 210 may be a software application associated with design engine 130. For example, the fire threat modeling tool 210 may be a website or application. Computing device 302 may be a desktop computer, laptop computer, smartphone, tablet computer, smartwatch, or any other computing device known to those skilled in the art. Figure 3 In the example shown, computing device 302 is a tablet computer. Computing device 302 may include a display screen 304 and an input device 306, such as, for example, a mouse, touchscreen, scroll wheel, scroll ball, stylus, microphone, camera, etc. Figure 3 In the example shown, since the computing device 302 is a tablet computer, the display screen 304 can also act as an input device 306.

[0055] Fire threat modeling tool 210 is configured to assist designers / users throughout the assessment of fire threats in each room 64 of building 62 by providing real-time feedback during the design process. Fire threat modeling tool 210 utilizes... Figure 1The input 110 is used to construct Figure 60, which shows a detailed dynamic fire threat input map 217. For example, the fire threat modeling tool 210 can take a floor plan 112a into input 110 and generate a detailed dynamic fire threat map 220, in which doors 80, windows 90, rooms 64, and other features such as items 112e (e.g., furniture and appliances) are identified (and possibly labeled). The dynamic fire threat input map 217 can be constructed at two different inputs, including a fire source input 222 and a fire evacuation point input 224. The dynamic fire threat input map 217 can also be constructed for the entire building 62, not just a single floor 61.

[0056] For fire source input 222, a detailed dynamic fire threat input map 217 is described in a single room 64 or zone. Factors such as room geometry, location of items 112e (e.g., obstacles / furniture), location of evacuation points 112g (e.g., exterior windows and doors), type of evacuation point 112g, fire hazard 112f present in room 64, and probability of fire 230 can be incorporated. The probability of fire 230 can be statistically determined in response to input 110 present in room 64 and / or historical data. Statistical methods can be used to identify the probability 230 of a fire occurring in room 64, and the probability 230 can be displayed on the dynamic fire threat input map 217, such as... Figure 3 As shown. Probability 230 can be displayed as high probability, low probability, medium probability, or ignored on the dynamic fire threat input graph 217, as... Figure 3 As shown. When receiving new inputs 110 and / or data from the fire detection system device database 150, the dynamic fire threat input map 217 can be updated in real time. The dynamic fire threat input map 217 can also display all hazards 112f and where each hazard 112f is located in each room 64, such as... Figure 3 As shown.

[0057] For fire evacuation point input 224, dynamic fire escape options and fire propagation models are constructed based on the understanding of the connectivity between room 64 and available fire escape installations 50. The proximity of room 64 is used to determine the likelihood of fire spreading to adjacent rooms 64. For example, a high probability 230 of a fire occurring in one room 64 may cause a probability 230 of a fire occurring in adjacent rooms 64. Doors 80 and windows 90 on the exterior of building 62 are considered potential evacuation points 112g in the event of a fire and can be prioritized based on their relative accessibility 240. For example, a window 90 on the second floor may be inaccessible unless a fire escape installation 50 is located nearby (such as, for example, a ladder). The process of obtaining the accessibility 240 of each evacuation point 112g can be automatically determined based on the type of evacuation point 112g, the location of the evacuation point 112g, and the location of any fire escape installations 50 that need to be located near the evacuation point 112g. The accessibility 240 of each evacuation point 112g can be displayed on the second level 224 of the dynamic fire threat input diagram 217, such as Figure 3 As shown. Accessibility 240 can also be displayed on the dynamic fire threat input diagram 217 using text and / or symbols. For example, a double green check mark can mean that evacuation point 112g is an access barrier, a single green check mark can mean that evacuation point 112g is an accessible ground floor, a red "X" can mean that evacuation point 112g is inaccessible, and a yellow exclamation mark can mean that evacuation point 112g can be accessed using fire escape ladders 50. The fire threat modeling tool 210 can also take into account the distance to each evacuation point 112g when determining accessibility 240.

[0058] Now refer to Figures 4 to 5 Continue to refer to Figures 1 to 3 , Figures 4 to 5 It shows Figure 1 The fire detection system device is placed at 300. Figure 4 A fire detection system device placement tool 410, operable by a user via a computing device 302, is shown. The fire detection system device placement tool 410 may be a software application associated with a design engine 130. The computing device 302 may be a desktop computer, laptop computer, smartphone, tablet computer, smartwatch, or any other computing device known to those skilled in the art. Figure 4 In the example shown, computing device 302 is a tablet computer. Computing device 302 may include a display screen 304 and an input device 306, such as, for example, a mouse, touchscreen, scroll wheel, scroll ball, stylus, microphone, camera, etc. Figure 4 In the example shown, since the computing device 302 is a tablet computer, the display screen 304 can also act as an input device 306.

[0059] The fire detection system placement tool 410 is configured to assist the designer / user throughout the placement of the fire detection system device 300 by providing real-time feedback during the design process. Figure 4 As shown, the fire detection system device placement tool 410 automatically determines the number and location of fire detection devices 30, fire extinguishing devices 40, and fire escape devices 50 in response to input 110. The fire detection system device placement tool 410 is configured to determine a dynamic fire threat map 220 and an exit map 270. The dynamic fire threat map 220 can be derived from... Figure 3 The fire threat input map 217 shown generates a detailed map 60. The dynamic fire threat map 220 can use color shading to indicate the probability of a fire 230. The exit map 270 shows the approximate location of evacuation points 112g and the distance 272 to each evacuation point 112g. The distance 272 can be measured from or relative to the center point 64a within each room 64. The exit map 270 can incorporate the ease of access (e.g., accessibility 240) of each evacuation point 112g and also identifies key narrow passages that may prevent exiting during an emergency (e.g., a fire).

[0060] The fire detection system placement tool 410 can automatically place fire detection devices 30, fire extinguishing devices 40, and fire escape devices 50 in all rooms 64 shown in Figure 308, which is displayed on a display screen 304, using a dynamic fire threat map 220 and an exit map 270. The fire detection system placement tool 410 can be further optimized or adjusted in response to the customer's expected budget and / or desired security level to determine the number and location of the fire detection devices 30, fire extinguishing devices 40, and fire escape devices 50.

[0061] like Figure 5As shown, Figure 308 is an interactive real-time system where users will be able to move fire detection devices 30, fire extinguishing devices 40, and fire escape devices 50 in all rooms 64 on Figure 308 by interacting with Figure 308, such as by dragging and dropping or by touching. The fire detection system device placement tool 410 is configured to activate alarm 368 if the movement of the fire detection device 30, fire extinguishing device 40, and / or fire escape device 50 violates constraints such as building requirement 114 device constraints. Device constraints may include any constraints to ensure the proper and / or effective operation of the fire detection device 30, fire extinguishing device 40, and fire escape device 50. For example, placing the fire detection device 30 in a bathroom may not be most effective, or the fire escape device 50 (e.g., a ladder) may need to be located near a window 90. Constraints may also include specifications / datasheets for installation constraints, as this may be a preferred placement location, prohibited locations, and / or recommended distances from potential fire sources or false detection sources. For example, a smoke detector may not be installed in a bathroom because it could trigger a false alarm due to steam. A smoke detector can be installed in a kitchen at a distance of at least 3 meters and no more than 5 meters from the heat source (cook / stove) to avoid delayed detection. The device should not be placed less than 30 centimeters from the ceiling, or preferably closer to the ceiling than the floor. In another instance, if placed on the ceiling, the device should not be placed less than X centimeters from a wall or any obstruction. Other information stored in the fire detection device database 150a may include whether the device is battery-powered or whether the device requires a socket / what type of socket / plug.

[0062] As mentioned above, building requirement 114 may include building system requirement 114a and expected certification level 114b. Expected certification level 114b may also include legal constraints. In the implementation, the fire detection system device placement tool 410 is configured to check in real time to ensure that the fire detection device 30, fire extinguishing device 40, and fire escape device 50 do not violate legal constraints. Advantageously, Figure 60 in the fire detection system device placement tool 410 serves as a visual aid to inform the user (i.e., the designer) in real time about specific constraints and whether constraints have been violated during modifications made by the user.

[0063] Now also refer to Figure 6 Continue to refer to Figures 1 to 5 . Figure 6A flowchart is shown illustrating a method 600 for designing a fire detection system 200 via user-manual placement with violation verification. At block 604, the location of at least one of the fire detection devices 30, fire extinguishing devices 40, and fire escape ladder devices 50 is determined. The locations can be determined by: determining the probability 230 of a fire occurring in room 64; determining the number of fire detection devices 30 of the fire detection system 20 within room 64 in response to the probability 230 of a fire occurring in room 64; determining the number of fire extinguishing devices 40 of the fire detection system 20 within room 64 in response to the probability 230 of a fire occurring in room 64; and determining the location of each of the fire detection devices 30 within room 64 and the location of each of the fire extinguishing devices 40 within room 64.

[0064] The probability 230 of a fire occurring in room 64 can be determined by: determining the geometry of room 64 in response to floor plan 112a; determining whether one or more items 112e are located in room 64 and the flammability of each of the one or more items 112e; determining whether one or more hazards 112f are located in room 64; and determining the probability 230 of a fire occurring in the room in response to at least one or more items 112e being located in the room, the flammability of each of the one or more items 112e, and the location of one or more hazards 112f in room 64. Obstacles are also avoided and the field of vision of these devices is taken into account.

[0065] At frame 606, the device position accuracy 140d is used to determine the position of at least one of the fire detection device 30, fire extinguishing device 40, and fire escape device 50 within building 62.

[0066] At box 608, in response to the device position correctness 140d of at least one of the fire detection device 30, fire extinguishing device 40, and fire escape device 50 within building 62, alarm 368 is activated. User input is used to adjust the position of at least one of the fire detection device 30, fire extinguishing device 40, and fire escape device 50 within building 62, and user input can prompt a recheck of device position correctness 140d.

[0067] Although the above descriptions are presented in a specific order Figure 6 The flowchart is provided, but it should be understood that the order of steps may vary unless otherwise specifically required in the appended claims.

[0068] Now refer to Figure 7 Continue to refer to Figures 1 to 6 , Figure 7 It shows the relationship with Figure 1A fire marking system 500 is used in conjunction with the fire detection system 20. The fire marking system 500 may include one or more exit markers 520 located near the fire extinguishing device 40 or fire escape device 50. The fire marking system 500 can communicate with each of the fire detection devices 30 of the fire detection system 20 and each of the exit markers 520. The fire detection system 20 may include a controller 510 to coordinate the operation of the fire detection devices 30 and the exit markers 520.

[0069] The controller 510 may be a computing device including a processor and associated memory, the memory including computer-executable instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform various operations. The processor may be, but is not limited to, a single-processor or multi-processor system having any of a wide array of possible architectures, including uniformly or non-uniformly arranged field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), central processing units (CPUs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), or graphics processing units (GPUs). The memory may be, but is not limited to, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), or other electronic, optical, magnetic, or any other computer-readable medium.

[0070] Controller 510 can obtain the location of each of the fire detection systems 30 from system 100 (e.g., design engine 130), such that when a particular fire detection system 30 detects a fire 560, controller 510 can determine the location of the fire 560 based on the location of the fire detection device 30. Controller 510 can also obtain the location of each of the exit signs 520 within the building 62. When a fire 560 is detected by at least one of the fire detection devices 30, controller 510 can determine a safe evacuation route 540 leaving the building 62 and then communicate with the exit signs 520 to guide individuals out of the building 62 along the safe evacuation route 540. Controller 510 and exit signs 520 are updated in real time as the fire 560 changes, moves, and / or spreads.

[0071] Exit signage 520 can provide instructions 520 to guide individuals out of the building 62 along safe evacuation routes 540. Instructions 522 can be verbal and / or visual. Figure 7 In the example shown, instruction 522 can be visually displayed to the user as text and symbols (such as arrows 524 guiding an individual to follow a path from one room 64 to another or not following a path). Arrow 524 can be highlighted in green to encourage an individual to follow safe evacuation route 540, or arrow 524 can be highlighted in red to warn an individual not to go toward fire 560 or an unsafe route. As mentioned above, instruction 522 can also be verbal to provide an audible instruction to an individual guiding them along safe evacuation route 540.

[0072] Exit marker 520 may be located near fire extinguishing devices 40 and / or fire escape devices 50 to provide instruction 570 to guide individuals on whether to use the fire extinguishing devices 40 and / or fire escape devices 50 located near the exit marker 520. Fire marking system 500 is configured to determine the size and / or type of fire 560 from fire detection device 30 and then determine whether each fire extinguishing device 40 will be effective against the determined size and / or type of fire 560. Controller 510 may obtain the type of each of the fire extinguishing devices 40 from system 100 (e.g., design engine 130) and then determine whether the type of fire extinguishing device is effective against the determined size and / or type of fire 560. For example, some fire extinguishing devices 40 may not be large enough to extinguish a determined size fire 560. In another instance, some fire extinguishing devices 40 may simply lack the appropriate extinguishing agent to extinguish a determined type of fire 560. If the fire extinguishing devices 40 can effectively extinguish a determined size and / or type of fire 560, instruction 570 may instruct individuals to use the fire extinguishing devices 40. If the fire extinguishing device 40 may not be effective against a fire of a determined size and / or type 560, then the instruction 570 may instruct an individual not to use the fire extinguishing device 40.

[0073] Instruction 570 can be verbal and / or visual. Figure 7 In the example shown, instruction 570 can be visually displayed to the user as written instruction 572, guiding an individual to pick up or not pick up the fire extinguishing device 40 to extinguish the fire 560. Written instruction 572 can be highlighted in green or red to prompt the individual to follow instruction 570. As mentioned above, instruction 570 can also be verbal, providing an audible instruction to the individual to guide them in using the fire extinguishing device 40 and / or the fire escape device 50. For example, an exit sign 520 can be located near the fire escape device 50 to provide an audible instruction to the individual to use the fire escape device 50, such as... Figure 7 As shown at position 574 in the middle.

[0074] Now also refer to Figure 8 Continue to refer to Figures 1 to 7 . Figure 8A flowchart according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, illustrating a method 800 for guiding an individual to an evacuation point 112g during a fire 560. At box 804, the locations of one or more fire detection devices 30 and one or more fire extinguishing devices 40 are determined. At box 806, the fire 560 within building 62 is detected using one or more fire detection devices 30. At box 808, the location of the fire 560 within the building is determined in response to the location of the one or more fire detection devices 30. At box 810, a safe evacuation route 540 between the individual and evacuation point 112g is determined in response to the location of the fire 560 within building 62. At box 812, the individual is guided towards evacuation point 112g along the safe evacuation route 540.

[0075] Individuals can be guided by activating exit markers 520 along safe evacuation route 540. As mentioned above, exit markers 520 are configured to provide instructions 522 to guide individuals toward evacuation point 112g along safe evacuation route 540.

[0076] Method 800 may further include: determining the size and / or type of a fire 560 within building 62; detecting the type of each of one or more fire extinguishing devices 40 within building 62; and, in response to the size and / or type of the fire 560 and the type of each of the one or more fire extinguishing devices 40, determining whether each of the one or more fire extinguishing devices 40 within building 62 can be used to extinguish the fire 560. An individual may then be indicated to the individual as to whether one of the one or more fire extinguishing devices 40 can be used to extinguish the fire 560. An individual may be indicated by activating an exit sign 520 along a safe evacuation route 540. The exit sign 520 is configured to provide an instruction 570 indicating whether one of the one or more fire extinguishing devices 40 can or cannot be used to extinguish the fire 560.

[0077] Although the above descriptions are presented in a specific order Figure 8 The flowchart is provided, but it should be understood that the order of steps may vary unless otherwise specifically required in the appended claims.

[0078] As described above, implementations can take the form of processes implemented by a processor and means (such as a processor) for performing those processes. Implementations can also take the form of computer program code containing instructions embodied in tangible media such as network cloud storage, SD cards, flash drives, floppy disks, CD-ROMs, hard drives, or any other computer-readable storage media, wherein when the computer program code is loaded into and executed by the computer, the computer becomes a means for performing the implementation. Implementations can also take the form of computer program code, for example, whether stored in a storage medium, loaded into and / or executed by a computer, or transmitted via some transmission medium, loaded into and / or executed by a computer, or transmitted via some transmission medium (such as via wires or cables, via optical fibers, or via electromagnetic radiation), wherein when the computer program code is loaded into and executed by the computer, the computer becomes a means for performing the implementation. When implemented on a general-purpose microprocessor, computer program code segments configure the microprocessor to generate specific logic circuits.

[0079] The term “approximately” is intended to include the degree of error associated with a specific number of measurements based on the equipment available at the time of application submission. For example, “approximately” could include a range of ±8%, 5%, or 2% of a given value.

[0080] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit this disclosure. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a” and “described” are intended to include the plural forms as well. It should be further understood that, when used in this specification, the term “comprising” specifies the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0081] Although this disclosure has been described with reference to one or more exemplary embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes can be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure and equivalents can replace its elements. Furthermore, many modifications can be made to adapt particular situations or materials to the teachings of this disclosure without departing from the basic scope of this disclosure. Therefore, this disclosure is not intended to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed as the best mode of execution intended for this disclosure, but rather this disclosure will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A method for determining the probability of a fire occurring in one or more rooms of a building, the method comprising: The geometry of the first room is determined in response to the floor plan; Determine whether one or more items are located in the first room and the flammability of each of the one or more items; Determine whether one or more hazards are located in the first room; as well as At least in response to the presence of one or more items in the first room, the flammability of each of the one or more items, and the presence of the one or more hazards in the first room, determine the probability of a fire occurring in the first room. The method further includes: Generate a dynamic fire threat input graph that displays the probability of a fire in the first room; Determine the location and type of one or more evacuation points within the first room; Based on the type of the one or more evacuation points, the location of the one or more evacuation points, and the location of any fire escape devices that need to be located near the one or more evacuation points, the accessibility of each of the one or more evacuation points is automatically determined; The accessibility of each of the one or more evacuation points is displayed on the dynamic fire threat input map; and The probability of a fire occurring in the first room is adjusted in response to the location and type of one or more evacuation points within the first room. The method further includes: The geometry of the second room is determined in response to the floor plan; Determine whether one or more items are located in the second room and the flammability of each of the one or more items; Determine whether one or more hazards are located in the second room; At least in response to the presence of one or more items in the second room, the flammability of each of the one or more items, and the presence of the one or more hazards in the second room, determine the probability of a fire occurring in the second room; and The probability of a fire occurring in the first room is adjusted in response to the probability of a fire occurring in the second room.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the probability of a fire is determined statistically in response to historical data.

3. The method of claim 1, further comprising: One or more fire extinguishing devices in the first room are determined in response to the probability of a fire.

4. A system for determining the probability of a fire occurring in one or more rooms of a building, the system comprising: processor; as well as The memory includes computer-executable instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform operations, said operations including: The geometry of the first room is determined in response to the floor plan; Determine whether one or more items are located in the first room and the flammability of each of the one or more items; Determine whether one or more hazards are located in the first room; and At least in response to the presence of one or more items in the first room, the flammability of each of the one or more items, and the presence of the one or more hazards in the first room, determine the probability of a fire occurring in the first room. The operation further includes: Generate a dynamic fire threat input graph that displays the probability of a fire in the first room; Determine the location and type of one or more evacuation points within the first room; Based on the type of the one or more evacuation points, the location of the one or more evacuation points, and the location of any fire escape devices that need to be located near the one or more evacuation points, the accessibility of each of the one or more evacuation points is automatically determined; The accessibility of each of the one or more evacuation points is displayed on the dynamic fire threat input map; and The probability of a fire occurring in the first room is adjusted in response to the location and type of one or more evacuation points within the first room. The operation further includes: The geometry of the second room is determined in response to the floor plan; Determine whether one or more items are located in the second room and the flammability of each of the one or more items; Determine whether one or more hazards are located in the second room; At least in response to the presence of one or more items in the second room, the flammability of each of the one or more items, and the presence of the one or more hazards in the second room, determine the probability of a fire occurring in the second room; and The probability of a fire occurring in the first room is adjusted in response to the probability of a fire occurring in the second room.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the probability of a fire is statistically determined in response to historical data.

6. The system of claim 4, wherein the operation further comprises: One or more fire extinguishing devices in the first room are determined in response to the probability of a fire.

7. A computer program product tangibly embodied on a computer-readable medium, the computer program product comprising instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform operations, the operations including: The geometry of the first room is determined in response to the floor plan; Determine whether one or more items are located in the first room and the flammability of each of the one or more items; Determine whether one or more hazards are located in the first room; as well as At least in response to the presence of one or more items in the first room, the flammability of each of the one or more items, and the presence of the one or more hazards in the first room, determine the probability of a fire occurring in the first room. The operation further includes: Generate a dynamic fire threat input graph that displays the probability of a fire in the first room; Determine the location and type of one or more evacuation points within the first room; Based on the type of the one or more evacuation points, the location of the one or more evacuation points, and the location of any fire escape devices that need to be located near the one or more evacuation points, the accessibility of each of the one or more evacuation points is automatically determined; The accessibility of each of the one or more evacuation points is displayed on the dynamic fire threat input map; and The probability of a fire occurring in the first room is adjusted in response to the location and type of one or more evacuation points within the first room. The operation further includes: The geometry of the second room is determined in response to the floor plan; Determine whether one or more items are located in the second room and the flammability of each of the one or more items; Determine whether one or more hazards are located in the second room; At least in response to the presence of one or more items in the second room, the flammability of each of the one or more items, and the presence of the one or more hazards in the second room, determine the probability of a fire occurring in the second room; and The probability of a fire occurring in the first room is adjusted in response to the probability of a fire occurring in the second room.

8. The computer program product of claim 7, wherein the probability of a fire is statistically determined in response to historical data.

9. The computer program product of claim 7, wherein the operation further comprises: One or more fire extinguishing devices in the first room are determined in response to the probability of a fire.

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