Fire Detection Sensor Unit with Multi-Modal Infrared and Smoke Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fire detection methods are inadequate as they rely on visual sightings, are limited to daylight hours, and fail to provide real-time, accurate location and speed data of wildfires, leading to inefficient resource deployment and increased risk due to smoke and poor visibility.
Innovation Solution
A ground-based sensor unit network with heat-resistant shells, multiple infrared and smoke detectors, and wind sensors that transmit real-time data via radio transmitters, enabling continuous monitoring and strategic decision-making for effective firefighting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If visual sighting methods are used for fire detection, then the system is simple and cost-effective, but detection is limited to daylight hours and provides inaccurate location data
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensor types (infrared pyroelectric sensors, infrared thermopile sensors, smoke detectors, temperature sensors) into a single integrated sensor unit. This merging of detection functions allows the system to operate independently of daylight conditions while providing precise location data through multiple sensing dimensions, resolving the contradiction between system simplicity and measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor unit is designed as a multi-functional device that performs detection, localization, and data transmission simultaneously. The integrated design includes viewing windows for optical sensors, ventilation holes for smoke detectors, and built-in radio transmitters, enabling the system to overcome the limitations of single-function visual sighting methods while maintaining cost-effectiveness.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If satellite imaging is used for fire detection, then detection can occur at any time, but detection frequency is low (twice per day) and real-time location data is unavailable
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor units are pre-deployed throughout the monitoring area and continuously operational, performing detection actions before fires reach significant size. The system maintains constant surveillance through multiple sensors that detect smoke, heat, and temperature changes immediately, eliminating the delays inherent in periodic satellite passes and enabling real-time response.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor units provide continuous detection and data transmission throughout the entire monitoring period. The radio transmitters continuously send data to command centers, and the sensors continuously monitor for fire conditions, ensuring uninterrupted detection capability that contrasts with the intermittent satellite imaging schedule.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If manned and unmanned aircraft with infrared technology are used, then heat sources can be detected at night, but operation is expensive and limited to one area at a time
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the monitoring area into multiple zones, each covered by independently operating sensor units. Each sensor unit is a compact, self-contained device with its own sensors and radio transmitter, allowing parallel operation across multiple locations simultaneously. This segmentation eliminates the need for expensive aerial operations while enabling comprehensive night-time monitoring throughout the entire area.
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 provides accurate, real-time data on wildfire location, speed, and climatic conditions, enabling rapid and targeted resource deployment to effectively contain and extinguish fires, reducing damage and improving safety.
Implementation Method 1
each viewing window being optically coupled to an infrared pyroelectric sensor
Implementation Method 2
an infrared thermopile sensor
Implementation Method 3
the interior of the shell defining a chamber containing at least one smoke detector
Implementation Method 4
a temperature sensor mounted on or in the unit
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor unit comprising a heat resistant shell, the shell having a plurality of viewing windows spaced around the shell exterior to define a 360° view around the unit, each viewing window being optically coupled to an infrared pyroelectric sensor and an infrared thermopile sensor, the interior of the shell defining a chamber containing at least two different smoke detectors, the shell having ventilation holes communicating with the chamber and temperature sensors mounted on the unit, the shell housing at least one printed circuit board coupled to the sensors and detectors and supporting a computer and radio transmitter, and a rechargeable power source powering the printed circuit board.