Smoke Detector with Vortex Chamber and Capillary Offset
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current smoke, gas, or particle detection systems face challenges such as inefficiency in high-ceiling environments due to the Poulain effect, complex and expensive multi-point suction detector installations, and inability to determine the source of detected particles, especially in low-volume applications.
Innovation Solution
A smoke, gas, or particle detector with a detection chamber connected to a suction device and a capillary offsetting the air suction point, featuring a vortex-forming design and virtual impactor to extend air residence time, and an embedded micro-pump for active air displacement, combined with a signal transmission system for reliable detection and source identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If natural convection is used to transport smoke samples to detectors, then passive detection is achieved, but detection reliability deteriorates in high-ceiling environments due to the Poulain effect
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from passive natural convection to active dynamic air sampling using fans or pumps. This dynamic approach overrides the static Poulain effect by mechanically forcing air movement, ensuring reliable particle transport to detectors regardless of ceiling height or thermal layering conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the natural convection mechanism (thermal-driven passive transport) with a mechanical air sampling system. This substitution eliminates dependence on thermal effects like the Poulain effect, providing consistent particle transport through mechanically controlled airflow.
2Reliability
If multi-point suction detectors are installed to improve detection sensitivity, then detection sensitivity is improved, but installation complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal air sampling system where a single detector unit with integrated sampling capability can serve multiple detection functions. The detector combines particle sampling, optical detection, and source localization capabilities in one unit, replacing the need for multiple separate point detectors and their associated piping infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the air sampling function from the complex multi-point detector system and integrates it into a single detector unit. This extraction eliminates the need for extensive suction pipe networks while maintaining the ability to sample particles from multiple locations through the device's mobility and adjustable sampling orientation.
3Reliability
If current detection systems are used, then detection is achieved, but source localization capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the detector's position, orientation, and sampling data are continuously monitored and used to determine particle sources. The system provides feedback loops that correlate detection events with spatial information, enabling real-time source localization and tracking of particle origins.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds spatial and temporal dimensions to the detection process. By incorporating position tracking, orientation data, and time-stamped detection events, the system transforms simple particle detection into a multi-dimensional analysis that enables precise source localization through spatial correlation of detection patterns.
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
Enhances detection reliability by extending air residence time in the chamber, reduces installation complexity and costs, and allows for precise determination of particle sources, improving sensitivity and accuracy in various application volumes.
Implementation Method 1
a suction device, via a fan, actively draws air from a network of tubing punctuated with multiple capture orifices
Implementation Method 2
detection is based on the optical principle of light scattering and/or absorption by smoke, gas or particles
Implementation Method 3
detection is based on the optical principle of light scattering and/or absorption by smoke, gas or particles
Implementation Method 4
In the case of high ceilings (above 12 meters), a layer of hot air can form under the ceiling, under the action of the Poulain effect
Implementation Method 5
the retention means is formed of an interior volume of the chamber configured so that an aspirated air flow forms a vortex, between an inlet and an outlet of said chamber, to increase the time of occupation of smoke particles in the chamber
Data Source
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AI summary
The detector (100) of smoke, gas or particles includes: a detection chamber (110) connected to a sucking device (105) and to an aperture allowing the passage of a flow of air and of particles or of gas; a means for segregating particles passing through the aperture and/or retaining particles in the chamber; a detector (115) of the presence of smoke, gas or particles in the detection chamber; and an emitter (120) of a signal representative of the detection of smoke, gas or particles in the detection chamber.