A sensing device for detecting the presence of
carbon monoxide in a selected space of concern and communicating with a remote monitoring device is provided. The sensing device comprises (a) a detection device configured to sense the presence of
carbon monoxide in the selected space of concern, (b) a monitoring device remote from the detection device, for communicating information to an operator, and (c) the
detector in circuit communication with the monitoring device, to transmit information from the detection device to the monitoring device that is related to
carbon monoxide in the selected space. According to one preferred embodiment, the sensing device is designed for an aircraft. The remote monitoring device is the multifunctional display of the aircraft
cockpit. In addition, in a preferred embodiment, a reset / retest
actuator is connected with the multifunctional display, and is in circuit communication with the detection device. The reset / retest
actuator is selectively actuated from the multifunctional display to send a reset / retest
signal to the detection device, to reset the detection device, and to initiate operation of the detection device to repeat its carbon
monoxide detection process and provide a
signal related to the level of carbon
monoxide detected by the detection device. Moreover, in a preferred embodiment, a
heating element is provided that is
proximate to the carbon
monoxide detection component. The
heating element is selectively actuated to heat the
air space about the carbon monoxide detection component. Also, an adjustment device associated with the output of the
CO detection device, for adjusting the output of the detection device in response to a
signal related to the air pressure in the selected space of concern. These features are particularly useful in a detection device for an aircraft, where ambient temperatures may drop to levels that can adversely affect the performance of the detection device, or where pressure changes in the aircraft may affect the sensitivity of the detection device.