Fire Event Detection Mapping Using Distributed Sensor Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fire detection systems are inadequate in tracking the real-time progression of a fire event within a structure and recording it for later graphical mapping, which is essential for effective response and post-event analysis by various stakeholders.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising multiple fire event detectors with GPS modules, alarms, and data transmission capabilities that send alerts to an emergency response module, allowing for real-time fire location and progression mapping, and subsequent graphical documentation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If traditional fire detection systems are used, then fire events can be detected and alerts can be transmitted, but the real-time progression of the fire cannot be tracked and recorded for later mapping
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the structure into multiple detection zones with individual fire detectors at each position. Each detector independently monitors its local area and records detection events with timestamps and locations. This segmentation enables detailed tracking of fire progression through multiple points in the structure without requiring a single complex centralized system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-configures multiple fire detectors at predetermined locations throughout the structure before a fire event occurs. Each detector is pre-programmed to monitor specific zones and record events with location and time data. This preliminary setup enables comprehensive fire progression tracking without requiring real-time system reconfiguration or additional complexity during the fire event.
2Measurement precision
If multiple fire detectors are distributed throughout the structure, then real-time fire location and progression can be tracked, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each fire detector in the network performs multiple functions: it monitors for fire conditions, records detection events with timestamps, determines its own location, transmits data to the emergency response module, and participates in mapping fire progression. This multi-functionality at each detector level enables precise fire location tracking without requiring complex centralized processing or additional specialized equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a replicated record of fire detection events at each detector location, preserving the exact timing and location data. These replicated records are transmitted to the emergency response module where they are consolidated into a comprehensive fire progression map. This copying approach maintains measurement precision while distributing the complexity across multiple simple, identical detector units rather than requiring a complex centralized system.
3Loss of information
If fire detection data is recorded and mapped for later analysis, then post-event analysis capability is improved, but the system requires additional data processing and storage capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The fire detectors automatically perform data recording, location determination, and transmission without requiring external intervention. The emergency response module automatically receives, stores, and processes the detection data to create fire progression maps. This self-service approach preserves complete fire event information while minimizing the need for complex manual data collection and processing procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors fire conditions, records detection events with timestamps and locations, and maintains data transmission to the emergency response module throughout the entire fire event duration. This continuous operation ensures no fire progression information is lost, providing complete data for post-event analysis while using automated processes to manage data processing complexity.
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 and timely fire location identification for responders and detailed post-fire event analysis, facilitating better response and investigation.
Implementation Method 1
detecting an ambient air condition indicative of a fire event using a plurality of fire event detectors
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for mapping progression of a fire event within a structure distributing fire event detectors throughout the structure, detecting an ambient air condition indicative of a fire event using the fire event detectors, sounding an alarm in a respective fire event detector if an ambient air condition proximate a respective fire event detector detects a fire event, determining a geographical position of each of the plurality of fire event detectors associated with the structure, determining a clock time indicative of a respective fire sensor detecting a fire event, an emergency response module remote from the plurality of fire event detectors receiving a notification from a respective fire event detector that an ambient air condition indicative of a fire event condition has been detected at a specific time and specific position, and mapping to a display the specific time and the specific detector and position of the notification.