Fire Alarm System Using Segmented Relay Networks for Reliable RF Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fire alarm systems face reliability issues due to malfunctions in relay systems, which can hinder effective notification of fire occurrences to building occupants.
Innovation Solution
A fire alarm system utilizing RF communication between multiple sensing and relay systems, with each sensing unit transmitting alarm information to corresponding relay systems and storing signal transmission paths, allowing for stable information transmission even if one relay system malfunctions, and operating in power-saving and normal modes to minimize power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single relay system is used to transmit alarm information, then the system structure is simple, but the reliability decreases when the relay system malfunctions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the relay system into multiple independent relay systems (first relay system, second relay system, third relay system), each capable of independently receiving and transmitting alarm information. This segmentation ensures that if one relay system malfunctions, the others can still transmit the alarm information, thereby improving reliability without requiring a completely redundant complex system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism where sensing units can transmit alarm information to multiple relay systems simultaneously, and relay systems can forward information to adjacent relay systems. This intermediary communication path allows the system to route alarm information through alternative paths if one path is blocked, resolving the reliability-simplicity contradiction.
2Reliability
If multiple relay systems are used to improve reliability, then the reliability increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the relay function across multiple independent relay systems that can operate autonomously. Each relay system has its own sensing units and communication capabilities, allowing the system to distribute the relay function rather than using a single complex centralized relay system, thus improving reliability while keeping individual components simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a multi-relay system that uses more relay systems than the minimum single relay would provide. This excessive action (using multiple relay systems) ensures high reliability by providing redundant paths for alarm information transmission, accepting that the complexity increase is justified by the critical safety function being performed.
3Speed
If the sensing system operates continuously to detect fires immediately, then the response speed is fast, but the power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by introducing a power saving mode where the sensing system operates intermittently rather than continuously. The system can switch between a low-power standby state and an active detection state, allowing fast response when needed while significantly reducing overall power consumption during normal operation periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic operation modes for the sensing system, allowing it to adjust its operational state based on environmental conditions and alarm status. The system can dynamically transition between power saving mode and active monitoring mode, optimizing the balance between response speed and power consumption rather than operating at a fixed continuous state.
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 system ensures reliable transmission of alarm information through adjacent relay systems, enhancing the overall reliability of the fire alarm system while reducing power usage during normal operations.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor that detects heat, smoke, flame, and the like generated by a fire
Implementation Method 2
a sensor that detects heat, smoke, flame, and the like generated by a fire
Implementation Method 3
performing Radio Frequency (RF) communication with the plurality of sensing systems
Data Source
AI summary
A fire alarm system according to an embodiment of the inventive concept includes a plurality of sensing systems, each sensing whether a fire has occurred, and a plurality of relay systems each corresponding to any one of the plurality of sensing systems, performing Radio Frequency (RF) communication with the plurality of sensing systems, and performing RF communication with each other, wherein each of the plurality of sensing systems includes a plurality of sensing units having different address information, wherein when detecting a fire, each of the plurality of sensing units transmits alarm information to a corresponding relay system among the plurality of relay systems, wherein when receiving alarm information from another adjacent sensing unit, each of the plurality of sensing units transmits the alarm information to a corresponding relay system among the plurality of relay systems, wherein each of the plurality of relay systems includes a memory in which information of parties corresponding to the address information is stored, and a reception unit configured to receive the alarm information from the plurality of sensing units, wherein when receiving the alarm information, the reception unit transmits a warning message to devices corresponding to the parties, and transmits the alarm information to adjacent relay systems among the plurality of relay systems.