Projected Beam Detector with Imaging Device for Automatic Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing projected beam smoke detectors are difficult to install and align, and installers must manually measure distances to set sensitivity, which can lead to improper settings and trouble conditions due to misalignment.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a multi-pixel image sensor, such as a CMOS camera, to automatically measure the distance across the projected space by comparing received signal levels to a known table of values, allowing for accurate beam alignment and sensitivity setting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual distance measurement and sensitivity setting is used, then installers can set the detector, but installation complexity and alignment difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The detector automatically performs distance measurement and sensitivity setting without requiring installer intervention. The system uses an imaging device to capture reflector images, automatically calculates distances based on reflector size in the field of view, and self-configures the sensitivity parameter, eliminating manual measurement and alignment steps
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement processes with an optical imaging system. Instead of physically measuring distance with tools, the system uses an imaging device to capture optical information about the reflector's apparent size and automatically computes distance through image processing algorithms
2Productivity
If beam alignment is not precise, then installation is faster, but trouble conditions occur due to misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The system captures images of the reflector using an imaging device and uses the apparent size of the reflector in the image field of view as feedback to determine distance. This feedback mechanism allows the system to automatically adjust and verify beam alignment, ensuring the beam is properly centered on the reflector while maintaining fast installation
Solution Approach 2:
The detector performs preliminary distance measurement and alignment verification during the installation process itself, rather than requiring separate alignment steps. By measuring distance and verifying beam-centering on the reflector before final installation completion, the system ensures proper alignment is achieved without adding time to the installation process
3Measurement precision
If installers manually measure distance, then sensitivity can be set, but measurement time and installation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual distance measurement with an optical imaging method. The imaging device captures the reflector's image and the system calculates distance based on the reflector's known physical size and its apparent size in the image field of view, eliminating the need for physical measurement tools and manual measurement time
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging device serves multiple functions: it captures the reflector image for distance measurement, verifies beam alignment by checking if the beam is centered on the reflector, and provides visual feedback for installation verification. This multi-functionality consolidates multiple installation steps into a single automated process
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 solution enables automatic distance measurement and alignment, reducing installation errors, improving sensitivity settings, and allowing for real-time monitoring of reflector position and intensity, thus enhancing the reliability and accuracy of smoke detection systems.
Implementation Method 1
determining an apparent size of the reflector in the field of view of the imaging device... comparing the apparent size of the reflector to a known size of the reflector
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of installing a projected beam detector can include providing a radiant energy source, providing a reflector, and projecting a radiant energy beam from the source to the reflector. A multi-pixel sensor or camera can be provided. The beam can be reflected from the reflector back to the sensor. The distance between the reflector and the camera can be determined based on size of image of the reflector incident on the camera. Where incident intensity corresponds to expected intensity for a predetermined distance, the sensitivity can be set based on predetermined distance.