Particle Detection Using Radiation Beam Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing particle detection methods face challenges in accurately detecting particles in large areas and outdoor environments due to issues like air handling systems causing particles to be swept away, low sensitivity, complex installations, environmental conditions leading to false alarms, and the need for skilled personnel. Current methods are intrusive, prone to misalignment, and struggle with distinguishing between nuisance particles and actual threats.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that emit a beam of radiation into a monitored region and use image capturing means to detect variations in images, allowing for indirect proportional determination of the beam's power level, alleviating causes of variations not related to particles of interest, and simulating multiple point detectors by dividing the beam into segments. This approach includes synchronizing light sources with image capture devices, compensating for distortions, and using additional beams for intrusion detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If beam detectors are used to measure particle attenuation, then detection coverage area is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to low sensitivity and inability to distinguish particle types
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the monitored area into multiple zones using multiple radiation beams, with each beam creating a distinct detection zone. This segmentation allows the system to maintain precise measurements in each zone while collectively covering a large area, resolving the contradiction between coverage and precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional point detection to two-dimensional area detection by using multiple beams at different angles and positions. This dimensional expansion enables simultaneous precise measurement across extended coverage areas without sacrificing sensitivity.
2Measurement precision
If point detectors are placed in specific locations to detect particles, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple detection functions into a single integrated system where multiple radiation sources and detectors work together as one unified apparatus. This merging maintains precise detection capabilities while reducing the number of separate installation points and simplifying overall system deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection system is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously - detecting particles across large areas, distinguishing particle types, and providing location information - all within a single apparatus configuration, reducing installation complexity while maintaining precision.
3Reliability
If aspirated smoke detectors sample air through ducts to detect particles, then detection reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to complex sampling infrastructure requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the detection function from complex sampling infrastructure and implements it directly in the monitored space using radiation beams. This eliminates the need for air handling ducts and sampling points, maintaining reliable particle detection while dramatically simplifying installation and operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses radiation beams as an intermediary medium to detect particles directly in the monitored area without requiring physical air sampling. This intermediary approach maintains detection reliability by directly interacting with particles while eliminating complex sampling infrastructure.
4Area of stationary object
If multiple detectors are deployed to cover large areas, then detection coverage is improved, but loss of time increases due to commissioning and alignment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple detection functions into a single coordinated system where radiation sources and detectors are pre-configured to work together. This reduces commissioning time by eliminating the need to individually align and calibrate multiple separate detectors while maintaining comprehensive area coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is pre-configured with predetermined beam paths and detector positions that are optimized for coverage before deployment. This preliminary arrangement of detection zones and parameters reduces on-site commissioning and alignment time while ensuring comprehensive area monitoring.
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 efficient detection of particles without the need for sampling or placing detectors in specific locations, improving sensitivity and reducing false alarms by directly detecting particle presence and location, while being less intrusive and requiring less skilled labor for installation and maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
uses a laser and a photodiode to detect light scattered from particles
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides use of one or more emitted beams of radiation (16), for example, laser beam(s), in combination with an image capturing means (14), for example, one or more video cameras and/or optical elements to detect particles (30), for example smoke particles, located in an open space (12).