Fire Detection Camera Alignment for Hit Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current infrared/video camera controlled fire extinguishing systems suffer from inaccuracies in targeting due to system-related errors, such as distorted images, angular misalignments, and mechanical drift, leading to suboptimal hit accuracy and excessive extinguishing agent consumption.
Innovation Solution
A method involving two IR/video camera systems for continuous detection and automatic target tracking, with precise alignment and adjustment of the extinguisher launcher using test measurements and triangulation for accurate distance calculation, ensures precise targeting and minimizes extinguishing agent usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single IR camera is used for fire detection and launcher control, then the system structure is simple, but the hit accuracy is insufficient due to system-related errors and angular misalignments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection function into two separate camera systems: a first IR/video camera for fire detection and a second IR/video camera for target tracking. This segmentation allows each camera to be optimized for its specific function and eliminates the compromise between detection accuracy and control accuracy that plagues single-camera systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a control system that acts as an intermediary between the two camera systems and the launcher. This control system processes images from both cameras, calculates the deviation between the launcher axis and the fire source, and generates correction commands, thereby mediating the coordination between detection and control functions.
2Area of stationary object
If the IR camera is mounted at a distance from the extinguisher launcher, then the detection area is larger, but angular misalignment errors increase reducing hit accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the detection function into two specialized camera systems positioned at different locations: the first camera can be optimally positioned for maximum detection coverage, while the second camera is positioned specifically for accurate target tracking and alignment with the launcher.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system continuously receives images from both cameras, calculates the angular deviation between the launcher axis and the fire source in real-time, and generates feedback commands to adjust the launcher positioning, thereby compensating for any angular misalignment errors.
3Ease of manufacture
If mechanical adjustment components are used for launcher alignment, then the system is easier to manufacture, but mechanical drift occurs reducing long-term accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The control system continuously monitors the alignment between the launcher and the fire source using images from the second camera and automatically generates correction commands to compensate for any drift, eliminating the need for manual mechanical adjustments and maintaining long-term alignment stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-alignment by automatically detecting the fire source position and calculating the required correction angles, then executing the alignment through the adjustment mechanism without requiring external intervention, thereby maintaining accuracy over time.
4Measurement precision
If test extinguishing attempts are performed to determine correction angles, then the launcher can be aligned with the fire source, but extinguishing agent is consumed during calibration
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses visual copying of the fire source position from camera images to determine the required correction angles, replacing the need for actual test extinguishing attempts. The control system calculates the deviation based on image analysis rather than physical trial-and-error.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical trial-and-error alignment process with an optical-electronic system that uses camera images and computational algorithms to determine the precise correction angles, eliminating the need for physical test shots that consume extinguishing agent.
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
This method enhances the hit accuracy of fire extinguishing systems, allowing for quick and efficient fire suppression with reduced agent consumption, minimizing environmental impact and storage needs.
Implementation Method 1
a first IR/video camera system (D1) for a first detection to ensure continuous fire detection
Implementation Method 2
a second IR/video camera system (D2) for a second detection to ensure automatic target tracking with respect to the source of fire
Data Source
AI summary
A method for improving the hit accuracy of fire detection systems controlled by infrared and video fire detection by means of a first IR/video camera system for the first detection unit (D1) to ensure continuous fire detection and a second IR/video camera system for the second detection unit (D2) to ensure automatic target tracking with respect to the source of fire, as well as to an extinguisher launcher (A) rigidly connected to the second detection unit. The method is characterised by steps through which video/infrared-controlled extinguishing systems can be precisely hit with regard to the target precision, and fires can be combated as quickly as possible, even in the early phase, with as little extinguishing agent as possible.