HVAC Fan Shutoff With Camera-Based Fire Location Alerts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fire protection systems in HVAC systems do not effectively suppress the spread of fire by automatically shutting off fans when a fire is detected, and they lack a mechanism to inform occupants of the fire location in a timely manner.
Innovation Solution
A fire suppression system that integrates a smoke detector with a transmitter to send signals to an HVAC interface to shut down the HVAC system, a camera to provide visual confirmation of the fire location, and a display unit to inform occupants, ensuring that the HVAC system is shut down and combustion air is deprived, thereby controlling the fire spread.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If the HVAC system continues to operate during a fire, then air circulation is maintained for normal comfort, but fire spread is accelerated through the air handling system
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-establishes the connection between smoke detectors and HVAC control interfaces before a fire occurs. When smoke is detected, the pre-programmed automatic shut-off sequence is immediately activated, depriving the fire of combustion air and oxygen while preventing fire spread through the air handling system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors smoke detector signals and automatically adjusts HVAC operation based on fire detection feedback. When smoke is detected, the system receives feedback from the smoke detector and automatically shuts off the HVAC system. The system can also restore HVAC operation after the fire is extinguished, demonstrating adaptive feedback control.
2Loss of information
If smoke detectors alone are used, then fire detection is provided, but occupants are not informed of the specific fire location in a timely manner
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges smoke detection, camera surveillance, and display notification functions into an integrated fire location identification system. When smoke is detected, the camera automatically captures images of the area, and both the smoke detector signal and camera image are transmitted to the display device, providing occupants with immediate visual confirmation of the fire location.
Solution Approach 2:
The display device serves as an intermediary that receives and processes signals from both smoke detectors and cameras, then presents integrated fire location information to occupants. This intermediary component bridges the gap between detection systems and human understanding, making fire location information immediately accessible.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the HVAC system is shut down immediately upon fire detection, then fire spread is suppressed, but normal air circulation and comfort are disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic or conditional HVAC operation based on fire detection status. The HVAC system operates normally during safe conditions, shuts off automatically when fire is detected, and can be restored after the fire is extinguished. This periodic action pattern balances fire suppression needs with normal comfort requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to system for suppressing the fire and warning to the occupants are disclosed. The described system includes a thermostat and Fan in an HVAC interface with a residential HVAC system, a receiver operable to receive a signal indicating the presence of a fire or smoke, and a processor in communication with the receiver and in response, sends a signal to the HVAC interface to cause the residential HVAC system to be shut down. In addition the system also includes camera system sending signal to a display unit displaying the floor and room number on the screen, thus warning the occupants the location of the fire.