Distributed Sound Sensor Network for Wireless Alarm Alerts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current alarm systems require a functioning telephone line and are unable to receive remote configuration commands, limiting their functionality, especially when users do not have access to a phone but have devices like pagers.
Innovation Solution
A distributed sensor system that receives sounds and transmits events to a central portal device, allowing for alert processing and configuration via a network, enabling alerts to be sent to user-defined devices without the need for a physical phone line and allowing remote configuration through a web interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a telephone line is used to transmit alarm signals, then the alarm system can function reliably, but the system requires an operating telephone line which limits flexibility and usability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a pager as an intermediary device between the alarm system and the user. The distributed sensor transmits alarm signals to a pager via wireless communication, which then delivers the alert to the user. This mediator eliminates the dependency on telephone lines while maintaining reliable alarm transmission and enabling flexible, mobile alert delivery.
2Ease of operation
If a keypad or input device is provided for configuration, then the controller can be programmed, but the user must have physical access to the device which is impossible when the user is locked out or does not have phone access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical keypad configuration system with a wireless communication system. The pager receives configuration commands wirelessly, eliminating the need for physical access to the alarm device. This substitution enables users to program and reprogram the system from a distance using their pager, even when locked out or without phone access.
3Ease of operation
If a glass-break detector uses only low-sound and high-sound filters, then the system is simple to operate, but it can only detect specific sound patterns and cannot recognize other types of alarms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal sound detection system where the distributed sensor can recognize multiple types of alarm conditions beyond just glass-breaking. The system uses pattern recognition algorithms that can be programmed to detect various sound signatures (fire alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, other break-ins). This multi-functional approach maintains ease of operation while dramatically expanding detection capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a computer implemented method for sending alerts. A distributed sensor receives a sound and determines whether the sound matches a preset criterion. If so, the distributed sensor transmits an event to a central portal device.