Remote Appliance Control Using State Alerts for Fire Prevention
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional smoke alarms only alert residents to potential fires after smoke is detected, failing to prevent fires from starting in the first place, and there is a need for remote management of electrical and gas devices to mitigate fire risks.
Innovation Solution
A computer system that remotely manages electrical and gas devices by determining changes in their state, notifying users, and sending control signals to turn them on or off, using geofences, timers, smoke alarms, and environmental sensors to prevent unauthorized use and potential fires.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If smoke alarms are used to detect fires, then fire detection capability is improved, but fire prevention capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by monitoring device states (stove, oven, washing machine, etc.) before fires occur. It detects when devices are turned on or left running and sends notifications to users, enabling preventive action before smoke is generated. This shifts the focus from reactive detection to proactive prevention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary notification system between the monitored devices and users. Instead of directly detecting fires, the system uses intermediaries (notifications about device states) to alert users about potential fire hazards, allowing them to take preventive measures before actual fires occur.
2Reliability
If remote monitoring and control of electrical devices is implemented, then fire prevention capability is improved, but system complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves multi-functionality by using a single notification platform to monitor multiple different device types (stoves, ovens, washing machines, dryers, etc.). Rather than creating separate complex systems for each device, one universal system handles fire prevention across diverse appliances through standardized monitoring and notification mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by automatically monitoring device states and sending notifications without requiring users to manually check each appliance. The automated monitoring and notification process reduces the burden on users while maintaining simple system architecture.
3Loss of information
If automated notifications are sent to users about device state changes, then user awareness of potential hazards is improved, but loss of time for user response deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary notification about device states before hazardous conditions develop. By alerting users when devices are turned on or left running, the system provides advance warning that gives users sufficient time to respond and prevent fires, rather than waiting until smoke is detected.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments described herein are directed to methods and apparatuses for remotely managing electrical and gas devices. In one scenario, a computer system performs a method for remotely managing electrical devices. The method may include determining that an electrical device has changed state, notifying at least one user that the electrical device has changed state, and either receiving an indication from the user that the electrical device is to be turned off, and turning the electrical device off, or receiving an indication from the user that the electrical device is to be turned on, and turning the electrical device on.