Electrochromic Fire Detector Indication System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fire detectors rely heavily on small, difficult-to-recognize LEDs for event indication, which can be missed by users, especially from a distance, and often require multiple LEDs for different events, making it challenging to understand alarms or maintenance needs.
Innovation Solution
A device using electro-chromic layers that change color based on detected events, with a controller and voltage generator system to apply specific voltages and communicate through a pulse width modulator, providing clear visual indications for events like alarms, maintenance, and battery status without relying on LEDs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If multiple small LEDs are used to indicate different events, then the device can provide information about multiple events, but the LEDs are difficult to see and recognize from a distance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies electro-chromic layers that change color in response to applied voltage to indicate different events. Instead of using multiple small LEDs, the system uses a single visible surface area that displays different colors (e.g., green for normal, yellow for warning, red for alarm) to communicate event status clearly from a distance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/optical LED system with an electro-chromic system that uses electrical voltage to induce color changes in the visible surface. This substitution eliminates the need for multiple discrete light-emitting components and provides a more visible indication mechanism.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple LEDs are used for different events, then each event can have its own indication, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the electro-chromic visible surface universal by enabling it to display multiple colors to indicate different events. A single electro-chromic layer structure can show green, yellow, red, and other colors depending on the applied voltage, replacing the need for multiple event-specific LEDs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple indication functions into a single electro-chromic visible surface. Instead of having separate LEDs for different events, the system combines all event indications into one unified display mechanism that communicates status through color changes.
3Loss of information
If traditional LED systems are used for event indication, then the device can provide visual feedback, but energy consumption is higher and operational costs are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the indication system by using electro-chromic layers that consume significantly less energy compared to continuous LED operation. The electro-chromic material maintains its color state without continuous power input, only requiring energy during state transitions, thereby reducing overall energy consumption.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides clear, long-range visual indications of fire detector events, improving user awareness and reducing confusion, with energy efficiency and lower operational costs compared to traditional LED systems.
Implementation Method 1
The one or more electro-chromic layers are adapted to glow with a color on the device by application of the generated voltage
Data Source
AI summary
A device and a method for providing an indication to a user regarding events associated with a device. A method includes detecting a plurality of events associated with a device and communicating the detected events to a controller of the device. The method includes generating a command for each of the detected events and communicating the command to a voltage generator of the device. The method includes generating voltage based on the command and applying the generated voltage to one or more electro-chromic layers of a plurality of electro-chromic layers embedded in the device. The method includes glowing a color by the one or more electro-chromic layers on the device by application of the generated voltage.