Shutter Test Device for Flame Detector Response Time

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing technologies are unable to effectively determine whether detectors forming virtual flame/fire spectra at UV and IR wavelengths function correctly and estimate the detection time, as well as the time period in which tubes explode and the system becomes active.

Innovation Solution

A portable shutter test device that uses a 24V external power supply to operate a test lamp, allowing for the measurement of reaction time to radiation by displaying data on an LCD screen for UV and IR sources located behind a shutter, which controls the radiation exposure to sensors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If UV and IR light sources are integrated to test lamp for testing UV/IR sensors, then testing capability is provided, but it is almost impossible to estimate the time period in which detectors react to light sources and the time period in which tubes discharged actively

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetesting capabilityVSAvoiddetection time estimation
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

A shutter mechanism is introduced as an intermediary component between the test lamp and the detector. The shutter controls the timing of light exposure to the detector, enabling precise measurement of detection response time. The shutter's opening and closing actions create defined time windows for radiation exposure, allowing accurate timing measurements that were previously impossible with continuous illumination.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The test device measures its own performance characteristics by using the shutter to control when the detector receives light from the integrated test lamp. The system automatically times the detector's response to the shutter-controlled radiation, providing self-diagnostic capability for detection time estimation without requiring external timing equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Adaptability or versatility

If test lamp is integrated into flame detector, then testing function is built-in, but it is mostly impossible to obtain efficient measurement data and no shutter or equivalent component to control radiation of light sources is mentioned

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebuilt-in testing functionVSAvoidmeasurement data efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The shutter serves as a critical intermediary that controls the timing and duration of light radiation from the integrated test lamp to the detector. By precisely controlling when radiation occurs, the shutter enables the system to capture accurate temporal measurement data, transforming the built-in test lamp from a simple illumination source into a precise measurement tool.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The shutter operates periodically, opening and closing at controlled intervals to expose the detector to radiation from the test lamp in defined time windows. This periodic action allows multiple measurement cycles to be performed, gathering sufficient data for accurate statistical analysis of detection response times while maintaining efficient use of the integrated test system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

3Device complexity

If no shutter or equivalent component is used, then device structure is simple, but time period measurement for detector response and tube activation cannot be determined

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructure simplicityVSAvoidresponse time measurement capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The shutter is introduced as a minimal yet essential intermediary component that enables time period measurement without significantly complicating the overall device structure. The shutter's simple mechanical or electronic design allows it to be integrated into the existing test lamp assembly, adding measurement capability while maintaining structural simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The shutter is positioned and configured in advance within the test device to control radiation exposure timing. By pre-establishing the shutter's location and operation sequence, the system is prepared to automatically measure detector response times and tube activation periods without requiring complex real-time control mechanisms during actual testing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 device enables accurate measurement of detector response times and tube activation periods in milliseconds, allowing for efficient testing and maintenance of flame/fire detection systems.

Implementation Method 1

a shutter (11) which controls radiation of light sources

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRadiation absorption: Absorption (EM radiation)

Implementation Method 2

UV and IR light sources are integrated to test lamp and used for testing UV/IR sensors

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight emission: Light

Data Source

PatentEP4018421B1Shutter test device for flame/fire detectors
Publication Date: 2025.02.12 NERO ENDUSTRI SAVUNMA SANAYI AS
  • EP4018421B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4018421B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3

AI summary

Invention relates to a shutter (11) test device (1) determining whether or not detectors detecting flame spectrum at UV and IR wave lengths by forming virtual flame/fire spectrum work and estimating detection time per milliseconds, estimating the time period in which tubes explode as well as time period in which fire extinguishing system work. The shutter (11) provides or prevents delivery of light source radiations to detector under control of the control unit. The control unit receiving alarm signal generated by detectors detecting sent radiation via cable or wireless estimates response time activated as a result of alarm signal and tests working of fire extinguishing system subject to said alarm and activation period and calculates time period of activation.