Remote Control Hazard Detection System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hazard detectors for smoke and carbon monoxide often fail due to battery neglect or power outages, and users face challenges in locating missing remote controls, which are crucial for daily use but frequently go unnoticed or unaddressed.
Innovation Solution
A rechargeable battery-powered remote control system integrated with a base charger that automatically scans for smoke and carbon monoxide when removed and includes a locator button to help find the remote control, combining hazard detection with a common, frequently used device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate battery-powered smoke detector is used, then hazard detection capability is provided, but users forget to change batteries and the device is neglected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a smoke detector with a remote control device, creating a single integrated unit that performs both hazard detection and remote control functions. This merging ensures the detector is frequently used and noticed, preventing battery neglect while maintaining reliable hazard detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The remote control device is given dual functionality: it serves as both a remote control for electronic devices and as a smoke detector. This multi-functionality increases the likelihood that users will interact with and maintain the device, ensuring battery changes occur regularly while providing continuous hazard detection.
2Reliability
If a hard-wired smoke detector is used, then continuous power supply is ensured, but the detector becomes worthless when power goes out
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts its power source based on availability. It operates from wall power when available, automatically switching to battery power when the outlet is unavailable, providing continuous operation regardless of power conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes its operational parameters by switching between different power sources (wall outlet to battery) based on environmental conditions. This parameter change ensures continuous operation while adapting to varying power availability scenarios.
3Reliability
If a remote control is used frequently, then battery power is tested daily, but the remote control is easily lost when not noticed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a locator button that provides feedback by causing the remote control to emit audible and visual signals. This feedback mechanism helps users locate the remote control when lost, addressing the issue of the device going unnoticed despite frequent use.
4Reliability
If a hazard detector is incorporated into a remote control, then the detector remains functional through daily usage, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges a smoke detector with a remote control into a single integrated device. While this increases device complexity, it ensures the detector is frequently used and noticed, maintaining reliability. The combination of functions in one device prevents the detector from being neglected.
Data Source
AI summary
A remote control system relating to a remote control and a base charger. A rechargeable battery contained within the remote control is charged when rested within a charging position of the base charger. Once a user removes the remote control from the charging position, the remote control doubles as a portable hazard detector that operates in a sustained manner for as long as the rechargeable batter has power. This means that the remote control will emit an alert noise if a hazard such as smoke or high level of carbon monoxide is detected by internal sensors located within the remote control. The base charger also has sensors and an alert speaker to inform the user of a potential hazard. In addition, the base charger is in communication with the remote control so that a user can locate a missing remote control.