Rotating Beam Smoke Detector for Large Area Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current beam detector systems for smoke detection in large areas are limited by the need for multiple point detectors and are ineffective due to ceiling geometry, as they can only detect smoke that contacts them and may not provide comprehensive coverage.
Innovation Solution
A smoke detector system with rotating beam detector units that transmit light and use multiple receivers to detect changes in light intensity, pausing or slowing down at specific positions to monitor for smoke, and can be configured with multiple units for comprehensive 360-degree coverage and inter-communication for enhanced detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple point detectors are used to monitor large areas, then coverage area is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a rotating beam detector that dynamically scans across a large area, replacing the need for multiple static point detectors. The detector rotates to change its monitoring direction, allowing a single unit to cover the same area that would require many fixed detectors, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining comprehensive coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The single beam detector unit performs multiple functions by rotating to different positions, effectively monitoring multiple areas sequentially. This multi-functional design allows one detector to replace many specialized point detectors, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining extensive coverage capability.
2Ease of operation
If point detectors are located on the ceiling, then installation is simplified, but detection effectiveness decreases due to height and geometry
Solution Approach 1:
The rotating beam detector dynamically adjusts its monitoring direction and position, allowing it to effectively monitor smoke regardless of ceiling height or geometry. The rotation mechanism enables the detector to change its field of view, maintaining detection effectiveness that fixed ceiling-mounted point detectors cannot achieve.
3Area of stationary object
If beam detector rotates continuously, then coverage is improved, but detection precision decreases due to inability to pause at critical positions
Solution Approach 1:
The beam detector employs periodic rotation with intentional pauses at critical positions. The detector rotates to scan different areas periodically, then pauses temporarily when aligned with specific zones to enhance detection precision. This periodic action with pauses allows the system to maintain both comprehensive coverage and accurate smoke detection by concentrating observation time at critical monitoring positions.
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
This system provides more effective smoke detection across large areas by adjusting rotation speed and pausing at critical positions to accurately detect smoke presence, reducing false alarms and improving coverage with multiple units.
Implementation Method 1
the at least one transmitter is configured to generate and transmit light, such as infrared, visible or ultraviolet light
Implementation Method 2
the receiver detects light emitted by the transmitter... determine the presence of smoke in the intervening region from the intensity of the light that is detected
Implementation Method 3
a motor configured to rotate the moveable portion... at particular rotational positions of the moveable portion, any given one of the transmitters is aligned with the receivers
Implementation Method 4
determine the presence of smoke in the intervening region from the intensity of the light that is detected... monitor how the intensity of the light detected... changes with time
Data Source
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AI summary
A smoke detector system 20 is disclosed, comprising a beam detector unit 10 having a moveable portion 14 comprising at least one light transmitter 16, a base portion for fixing to a surface, and a motor configured to rotate the moveable portion 14 relative to the base portion. The system also has at least one receiver for detecting light transmitted by the transmitter.