Fiber Optic Node Location Mapping via Time of Flight
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional smoke detection systems require manual and error-prone methods for mapping the physical location of detectors within a facility, which are not machine-readable and do not provide real-time feedback for maintenance or control systems.
Innovation Solution
A fiber optic system with a harness and control system that determines the physical location of nodes within a predetermined area by emitting and receiving light signals, allowing for interactive display and control of detector locations and sensitivity adjustments based on risk regions and operational status.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual mapping methods are used to determine detector locations, then the process is simple to implement, but the mapping is tedious, error-prone, and not machine readable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical mapping methods with an automated optical system. Emitters and detectors use light-based time-of-flight measurements to automatically determine physical locations, eliminating tedious manual measurement and drawing processes while providing machine-readable output that can be directly displayed on fire alarm panels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces emitters as intermediary devices that facilitate automatic location mapping. These emitters send light signals to detectors, enabling the system to automatically calculate and determine physical locations without direct manual intervention, thereby improving accuracy while maintaining manageable system complexity.
2Reliability
If individual sensor units with processing components are positioned at each sensing location, then detection sensitivity is improved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of multiple individual sensor units into a centralized detection system. Instead of each sensing location having its own independent sensor unit with processing components, the system uses a network of fiber optic cables connecting multiple detection points to a central processing unit, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high detection sensitivity through coordinated operation of distributed detectors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal detection architecture where a single centralized processing system serves multiple sensing locations. The fiber optic network enables one processing unit to handle data from numerous detectors throughout the facility, eliminating the need for redundant processing components at each location while maintaining comprehensive monitoring capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If physical maps are created manually, then the process is straightforward, but the maps must be redone with layout changes and are not automatically displayed on control panels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual map creation and updating processes with automated electronic mapping. The system uses light-based distance measurements to automatically generate and update digital representations of facility layouts, eliminating the need to manually redraw maps when configurations change and enabling automatic display on fire alarm control panels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements automatic feedback mechanisms where the detection system continuously monitors and reports detector locations and status to the control panel. This real-time feedback enables the system to automatically update its internal map representation without manual intervention, ensuring the control panel always displays current facility布局和detector positions.
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
Enables accurate, automated mapping and control of detector locations, improving maintenance efficiency and reducing false alarms by adjusting sensitivity based on risk regions and operational conditions.
Implementation Method 1
A control system is operably coupled to the at least one emitter and the at least one node to determine a physical location of the at least one node relative to the predetermined area
Implementation Method 2
Light is transmitted from each of the plurality of nodes and scattered light is received at each of the plurality of nodes
Data Source
AI summary
A system for locating a detection system within a predetermined area includes a fiber optic harness defining at least one node in communication with the predetermined area. Light is received at the at least one node. At least one emitter is arranged in communication with the at least one node. A control system is operably coupled to the at least one emitter and the at least one node to determine a physical location of the at least one node relative to the predetermined area.