Fire Patents (Class 340/286.05)
  • Patent number: 11322004
    Abstract: A system and a method for determining one or more safe evacuation paths in an event of fire. A method includes receiving measurements of parameter/s from one or more detectors. The one or more detectors detect parameter/s in an event of fire in a premises and are positioned at each of a plurality of evacuation paths inside the premises. The method further includes determining one or more safe evacuation paths from the plurality of evacuation paths inside the premises based on the measurements of the parameter/s. The method also includes displaying an indication of each of the one or more safe evacuation paths on an interface of a user device based on the determination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2022
    Assignee: CARRIER CORPORATION
    Inventors: Venkat Rao, Bharat Kumar Vundi
  • Patent number: 11288951
    Abstract: A method, system and devices assisting detection of a cover/cap. The method includes monitoring detection chamber readings from a plurality of detectors and identifying an anomaly in the detection chamber readings. Further, the one or more detectors from the plurality of detectors each having an anomaly are determined from the detection chamber readings. An alert is executed based on the anomaly in the detection chamber readings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2022
    Assignee: CARRIER CORPORATION
    Inventor: Don Patric Lobo
  • Patent number: 11240056
    Abstract: A safety automation system for an occupiable structure includes a computing management system including a computer processor, and a computer readable storage medium configured to run embedded software and cloud server software. A fire detection device of the automation system is adapted to detect a fire condition and output an associated fire condition detected signal to the computing management system. A condition deterrence device is configured to accept a wireless command signal from the computing management system associated with the fire condition detected signal and for actuating an appliance to at least reduce risk presented by the condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2022
    Assignee: CARRIER CORPORATION
    Inventors: Anis Zribi, Travis Silver, Jonathon Hughes, John Andres, Chris Rovenstine, Sean Curley, Michael L. Richards
  • Patent number: 11002579
    Abstract: A method of determining at least one point of entry of smoke into a smoke detection system, the system having a sampling pipe network including at least one sampling pipe and a plurality of sampling inlets through which an air sample can enter the at least one sampling pipe of the smoke detection system for analysis by a particle detector, said method including: determining a volume of sample air that has passed through at least part of the smoke detection system since a predetermined event or a value corresponding to said volume; and determining through which sampling inlet of the plurality of sampling inlets the smoke entered the smoke detection system based, at least in part, on the determined volume or value. Systems for implementing such a method and related methods are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2021
    Assignee: Xtralis Technologies, Ltd.
    Inventors: Kemal Ajay, Ron Knox, Brian Alexander, Karl Boettger, Rajiv Kumar Singh, Thor North, Stephen James Pattinson, Peter Massingberd-Mundy
  • Patent number: 10694107
    Abstract: A process for the elimination of thermal interferences in the infrared and video fire detection at an early stage in waste incineration plants, recycling facilities, warehouses and the like. The process is characterized by an additional noise and vibration analysis, by measuring the noise level of vehicles situated in the area to be detected or other thermal interference sources, with a distinction in measuring the noise level between day mode and night mode. The volume thresholds can thus be determined and be used as a threshold for determining whether a fire extinguishing sequence should be triggered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2020
    Inventor: Albert Orglmeister
  • Patent number: 10424190
    Abstract: A safety automation system (20) for an occupiable structure and method of operation includes a plurality of detection devices (30) to facilitate the detection of a hazard condition and output a hazard detected signal to a computing management system (44) that may be a cloud computing system. The management system includes a computer processor (46), and a computer readable storage medium (48) capable of generating various notifications to a mobile user interface device (32).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2019
    Assignee: CARRIER CORPORATION
    Inventors: Anis Zribi, Travis Silver, Jonathon Hughes, John Andres, Chris Rovenstine, Sean Curley, Michael L. Richards
  • Patent number: 10391345
    Abstract: Embodiments of laser material processing systems with fire suppression are disclosed herein. A laser material processing system configured in accordance with one embodiment includes a laser material processing region, at least one sensor disposed in the laser material processing region, and at least one suppressant delivery port positioned in or adjacent to the laser material processing region. The sensor is configured to detect the presence of self-sustained combustion in the laser material processing region, and a suppressant delivery port is configured to deliver suppressant to suppress the self-sustained combustion when at least one of the sensors detects self-sustained combustion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: UNIVERSAL LASER SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Yefim P. Sukhman, Stefano J. Noto, Christian J. Risser, Matthew R. Ricketts
  • Patent number: 10129704
    Abstract: Embodiments relate generally to systems and methods for tracking emergency responders. An emergency responder tracking system may comprise a beacon comprising a radio frequency module; a portable device, wherein the portable device is configured to receive a wireless signal from the beacon and transmit the wireless signal to a computer system, wherein the computer system comprises a user interface and is configured to receive the wireless signal from the portable device and provide a map, in the user interface, of a location of the beacon; wherein the wireless signal comprises a unique identifier, a location of the beacon, a last detected location of an emergency responder, and/or current time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2018
    Assignee: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC., A DELAWARE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Steve Huseth, Neb Petrovacki
  • Patent number: 9934673
    Abstract: Methods and systems for alerting a wearer of a wearable device of an abnormality are disclosed. The abnormality is detected by a smart device. The smart device then communicates the abnormality to a mobile terminal. The mobile terminal causes the wearable device to detect a current activity status and/or a current environment setting of the wearer of the wearable device. The mobile terminal then determines and communicates to the wearable device a type of warning operation based on the current activity status and environment setting of the wearer. The wearable device then performs the type of warning operation for alerting the wearer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: Xiaomi Inc.
    Inventors: Enxing Hou, Long Dai, Ziguang Gao
  • Patent number: 9799175
    Abstract: The present invention provides methods and systems for a signal device that includes at least one smoke detecting device, optionally a severe weather warning device, and optionally a carbon monoxide detecting device, which are housed within a housing comprising a top portion and a base. A circuit board having a top side and a bottom side that extends to an outer edge is also contained within the housing, and at least one LED is positioned in close proximity to the outer edge of the bottom side of the circuit board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2017
    Assignee: White Stagg, LLC
    Inventor: Bradley Benjamin Stagg
  • Patent number: 9699858
    Abstract: Techniques presented herein are directed to the coordinated network-based control of the color capabilities of multi-color fixtures. A network device is connected to multi-color light fixtures each comprising a local processor and a plurality of color light emitters. The network device receives data inputs from one or more data sources and uses the data inputs to identify a color informational display for presentation across a plurality of the multi-color light fixtures. The network device generates messages encoding light control settings for each of the plurality of multi-color light fixtures enabling each multi-color light fixture to present a spatial or temporal segment of the color informational display and sends the messages to the plurality of light fixtures. Execution of instructions embedded in the messages by the local processors results in the creation of the color informational display across the plurality of multi-color light fixtures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2017
    Assignee: Cisco Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew A. Laherty, Donald Schriner, William MacGowan, Charles Calvin Byers
  • Patent number: 9622301
    Abstract: Systems and methods for driving optical sources operating at different wavelengths within a smoke sensor are described herein. Multiple optical sources such as light emitting diodes may be used in a photoelectric smoke sensor to detect particles of different sizes. Photoelectric smoke sensors can operate by pulsing the LEDs and measuring a response in a light sensor. The signal measured at the light sensor changes based on the quantity of particles existing in a smoke chamber. Each optical source may have different operational characteristics and thus require different drive currents to operate. LED driving circuitry according to embodiments discussed herein provide a consistent and reliable drive current to each optical source, while maximizing efficiency of power consumption across a range of possible voltages provided by different power sources.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2017
    Assignee: GOOGLE INC.
    Inventors: Daniel Adam Warren, Ian C. Smith, Brian Jonathan Conner
  • Patent number: 9609287
    Abstract: Remote monitoring and inspection of measurement devices, emergency equipment, parking spaces, and other items is accomplished by using an image sensor (e.g., a CMOS sensor) to capture an image containing information about the monitored item. A signal containing information about the image (e.g., data representing the captured image or data indicating the state of the captured image) is transmitted to a remote central station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: en-Gauge, Inc.
    Inventors: Brendan T. McSheffrey, Terrance Riedel
  • Patent number: 9495862
    Abstract: An improved emergency response system and method includes at least one zone display structured to present a plurality of zones that convey certain information to bystanders, dispatchers, and/or emergency responders. Each zone corresponds to a different portion of the local premises, such that the zones are collectively configured to convey at least directional information pertaining to the local premises. The zone display is further configured to present at least one universal directional indicator associated with each zone. Accordingly, the information associated with the zones and directional indicators is utilized to facilitate an emergency response. The presenting of the zones can include depicting at least a portion of the premises via mapping overlay display. Further, the zone displays can depict threat level indicators corresponding to perceived circumstances of one or more zones.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2016
    Inventor: Jeffrey Childers
  • Patent number: 9449485
    Abstract: A flame detector incorporates visible and near infrared sensors in common with processing circuits to form processed instantaneous, dc type, signal values minus an average value and peak-to-peak ranges of values of ac-type signals over a measurement time interval on the order of three seconds. The resulting values are further processed to determine the presence of a fire condition by comparing them to a predetermined threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2016
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Theodore Raymond Lapp
  • Patent number: 9324226
    Abstract: Method of implementing a disaster identification system by utilizing personal illuminated displays to visually communicate with search and rescue personnel. The method consists of holding or attaching an illuminated display to people and pets that are located in a disaster stricken area. In one exemplary method, the illuminated displays are set by the users to certain colors and flash patterns to indicate their location, group make up and condition to search and rescue personnel patrolling the area. The night is now utilized to discover survivor's locations and conditions, something that is not done today.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Juan Enrique Cienfuegos
  • Patent number: 9323826
    Abstract: Methods, systems and software are described for analyzing micro-blog messages to detect activity of interest. The system includes a clusterer for clustering micro-blog messages received over a first period of time, a classifier for scoring the clustered messages; a knowledge base, a rule generator for generating classification rules from the knowledge base; and a matcher for matching the scored messages to information requests. Methods for operating the system and its components are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: EBH Enterprises Inc.
    Inventors: Edward J. Bailey, Samuel L. Hendel, Jeffrey D. Kinsey, Richard J. Schiller
  • Patent number: 9265115
    Abstract: A system and method to illuminate an emergency exit pathway during an event is provided. The system includes a receiver in communication with a transmitter, a lighting device wired to the receiver, and a power source configured to power the lighting device and the receiver. The transmitter is configured to communicate a signal indicative of an even to the receiver. The event is an emergency event requiring evacuation of a space. The space is an enclosed space. The lighting device surrounds at least a portion of an exit for the space and is configured to emit light and illuminate the portion of the exit when the signal is received by the receiver. The lighting device is a plurality of light emitting diodes arranged along at least three sides of the exit The power source is a battery pack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Inventors: Otto W Dunn, Kipton Dunn
  • Patent number: 9076319
    Abstract: An interface system for providing a comprehensive user interface for alarm systems. The interface system may include two or more alarm system workstations, each having a user interface application installed thereon. One or more alarm panels may be connected to each of the alarm system workstations, and one or more points may be connected to each of the alarm panels. A broker workstation may be connected to the two or more alarm system workstations, and one or more client workstations may be connected to the broker workstation. A user interface broker may be installed on the broker workstation, wherein the user interface broker is configured to provide the one or more client workstations with a user interface that presents the status of, and that provides control over, all of the points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2015
    Assignee: TYCO FIRE & SECURITY GMBH
    Inventors: Mario Boisclair, Joseph Piccolo, III, Dennis McEvoy, Mary Winna Fox, Kirill Alexandrov
  • Patent number: 8896427
    Abstract: A portable thermal image emergency exit marking device for use by firefighters and rescue personnel includes a polygonal housing having electrical heating elements on side panels that are shaped to form infrared heat generating words or symbols indicating an escape exit which are clearly visible by a thermal imaging camera, a flashing strobe light, and an audible alarm, to guide firefighters to the exit of a burning smoke-filled building. The configuration of the infrared heating elements avoids confusion and clearly distinguishes the words or symbols from other hot spots, heat emitting objects, and burning objects in the environment of the burning structure. An accessory adjustably supports the marking device at various heights above the floor surface when desired. The housing may have a ring for connecting a rope that can be extended from the housing to an exit of the burning structure and followed to exit the burning structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Inventor: Roland Ramirez
  • Patent number: 8860573
    Abstract: The present invention is an alarm system comprising an alarm handset (10) having a housing (30), a detector circuit (100) having means (102, 104) for receiving a preselected signal from a remote transmitter (40) and generating a first detection signal in response thereto, first sensing means for sensing change in a preselected parameter of the handset, warning means (300) for generating a warning signal, alarm means (400) for generating an alarm signal and control means (500) responsive to receipt of the detection signal to activate the alarm means (400). The control means (500) is operable to activate the warning means in response to at least one of receipt of the control signal and sensing of the change in the preselected parameter of the handset.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Fireangel Limited
    Inventors: Stuart Arthur Hart, Nicholas Alexander Rutter
  • Patent number: 8854194
    Abstract: Remote monitoring and inspection of measurement devices, emergency equipment, parking spaces, and other items is accomplished by using an image sensor (e.g., a CMOS sensor) to capture an image containing information about the monitored item. A signal containing information about the image (e.g., data representing the captured image or data indicating the state of the captured image) is transmitted to a remote central station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: en-Gauge, Inc.
    Inventors: Brendan T. McSheffrey, Terrance Riedel
  • Patent number: 8854195
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are described for providing access to a network via a first one of a plurality of network access nodes in the network. The network access nodes each have a network address associated therewith which is unique on the network, the first network access node having a first network address associated therewith. The first network address is associated with a first computer while the first computer is connected to the first network access node thereby providing access to the network. When implemented at a hospitality structure such as a hotel, as a guest is checking in or in response to some other appropriate event, information regarding the guest's room environment and other preferences in a database record is transmitted from a head-end module to the network access node in the guest's assigned room. The assigned room is then automatically configured to suit the guest's preferences.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Guest Tek Interactive Entertainment Ltd.
    Inventors: William B. West, Wallace Eric Smith, Steven R. McDaniel
  • Patent number: 8749392
    Abstract: A method includes receiving occupancy information from a node located in an area of a structure, where the occupancy information includes a number of individuals located in the area. An indication of an evacuation condition is received from the node. One or more evacuation routes are determined based at least in part on the occupancy information. An instruction is provided to the node to convey at least one of the one or more evacuation routes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: OneEvent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Kurt Joseph Wedig, Daniel Ralph Parent, Tammy Michelle Wedig, Kristin Ann Sutter-Parent
  • Patent number: 8730019
    Abstract: A pull station for an alarm includes a housing having an actuator mounted for movement with respect thereto. The actuator has a standby (i.e., normal) position and an alarm position. The actuator has a contoured actuation surface configured such that downward pressure on the actuation surface moves the actuator from the standby position to the alarm position. The actuator may be rotatably or slidably coupled to the housing. The actuation surface may extend beyond the front face of the housing when in the standby position. In some embodiments, the actuation surface is cup-shaped. In other embodiments, the actuation surface is v-shaped, with first and second angled portions forming oblique angles with respect to a lateral axis of the housing. Thus arranged, the actuator can be operated by a disabled who may not have complete hand or finger dexterity. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: SimplexGrinnell LP
    Inventor: Steven T. Varieur
  • Patent number: 8717162
    Abstract: A method for controlling guiding, signal or alert lights, particularly signal lights for an emergency escape route in a fire situation, in which method there are controlled sequentially arranged light sources, such as LED light sources. In the method, in the first step the sequentially arranged light sources (40), which are most advantageously arranged as a light source string (4) or at least as part thereof, are activated, on the basis of a signal received from a fire detector (3), to be switched to a first mode, in which first mode the sequentially arranged light sources are used for indicating the direction of an escape route, and/or to a second mode, where the light sources (40) are switched to emit continuous light. The invention also relates to a system and a device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Marimils OY
    Inventor: Göran Sundholm
  • Patent number: 8717150
    Abstract: The alarming device of the present invention includes a battery power supply; a sensor section that outputs an anomaly detection signal in the case of detecting an anomaly; a alert section that outputs an anomaly alarm based on the anomaly detection signal; a reception circuit section that receives an event signal from another alarming device; a transmission circuit section that transmits an event signal to the other alarming device; an anomaly monitoring section that, when the sensor section has detected an anomaly, causes the alert section to output the anomaly alarm based on the anomaly detection signal and causes the transmission circuit section to transmit an event signal according to the anomaly of the alarming device to the other alarming device, and on the other hand, when the reception circuit section has received an event signal according to an anomaly of the other alarming device from the other alarming device, causes the alert section to output the anomaly alarm; and a communication control sectio
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Hochiki Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshitaka Egawa, Hiroshi Shima
  • Patent number: 8698613
    Abstract: An improved system and method are disclosed for providing test functionality for fire and security system monitoring networks. An operator at a workstation node can place points into a “test-mode” while those points remain “live” (i.e., the system remains operational). For points placed in test-mode, if/when such points transition into a non-normal state (e.g., an alarm state), no flashing or other indication requiring a manual acknowledgement from the operator of the workstation node will occur. In addition, for systems employing banners, active lists, automatic printouts or graphics icons that indicate events, no such indications will occur at the workstation node. The disclosed system and method can also generate documentation verifying completion of system testing in accordance with local jurisdictional requirements. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Tyco Fire & Security GmbH
    Inventor: Dennis McEvoy
  • Patent number: 8692862
    Abstract: A method is provided in one embodiment and includes establishing a communication session involving a first endpoint and a second endpoint that are associated with a video conference in a network environment. The first endpoint is associated with a first identifier and the second endpoint is associated with a second identifier. The method also includes evaluating first audio data for the first endpoint, and determining a vocative parameter associated with the first audio data, where image data can be rendered on a user interface at the first endpoint based on the detecting of the vocative parameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Cisco Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Sylvia Olayinka Aya Manfa N'guessan
  • Patent number: 8653984
    Abstract: An emergency lighting system for a building includes at least one LED-based light. An emergency detector is operable to detect an emergency. The emergency detector produces an emergency signal in response to the emergency. A controller is operable to control the at least one LED-based light in response to the emergency signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: iLumisys, Inc.
    Inventors: John Ivey, David L Simon
  • Patent number: 8610557
    Abstract: A system includes a fire extinguisher station having a number of sensors to detect various predetermined conditions that can be communicated in alarms to a central station. The central station receives alarms from the fire extinguisher and determines whether to contact emergency personnel and/or building maintenance personnel. Other items of emergency equipment can be included in the system for improved detection and response to emergency conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: en-Gauge, Inc.
    Inventors: John J. McSheffrey, Sr., John J. McSheffrey, Jr., Brendan T. McSheffrey
  • Patent number: 8587442
    Abstract: A smoke alarm has a base element with a flat mounting surface, a light emitter that is attached to the mounting surface and that is configured to issue an illuminating light, and a light receiver that is attached to the mounting surface next to the light emitter and that is configured to receive a measurement light that results from a back-scattering of the illumination light at a measurement object located in a detection space. A data processing device is coupled to an output of the light receiver and configured to evaluate temporal changes of an output signal issued by the light receiver. Also, there is provided a method for checking the functional capability of the smoke alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Markus Loepfe, Kurt Müller, Georges A. Tenchio, Walter Vollenweider
  • Patent number: 8547238
    Abstract: A system for confirming the detection of a fire using a plurality of radiation or flame sensors each equipped with a radiation detector and an optical filter having a spectral transmission characteristic in which at least one optical filter is redundant to at least one other optical filter. The result is a system having operationally redundant sensors. In use, if a fire is detected by one of the redundant sensors without including the other redundant radiation sensor in the fire detection calculation, then a fire detection algorithm can switch to the other operationally redundant sensor to check for confirmation of a fire. Due to the spatial separation and if the object is small and close, a different result will be obtained with the redundant detector being used in the calculation compared to the primary detector that is associated with the redundant detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: KnowFlame, Inc.
    Inventor: John Harchanko
  • Patent number: 8493230
    Abstract: Provided is an elevator evacuation supporting system which can appropriately guide people living in a building to the hall of an elevator in the case of occurrence of a disaster.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Shiro Hikita, Kiyoji Kawai, Masahiko Konishi, Masafumi Iwata
  • Patent number: 8484032
    Abstract: A system and method for operating a security system include a device control module configured for electronic communication with a plurality of devices and a user interface coupled in electronic communication with the device control module. The user interface includes a voice memory and a first speaker. The user interface is configured to receive a first system event from the device control module identifying a first condition detected by the security system. The user interface is further configured to retrieve a voice message from the voice memory corresponding to the first system event and transmit the voice message via the first speaker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: UTC Fire & Security Americas Corporation, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald Edward Becker, Richard Philip Tucker, William Edwards, Baohua Shu, Laigui Qin, Wei Chen
  • Publication number: 20130169422
    Abstract: A pull station for an alarm includes a housing having an actuator mounted for movement with respect thereto. The actuator has a standby (i.e., normal) position and an alarm position. The actuator has a contoured actuation surface configured such that downward pressure on the actuation surface moves the actuator from the standby position to the alarm position. The actuator may be rotatably or slidably coupled to the housing. The actuation surface may extend beyond the front face of the housing when in the standby position. In some embodiments, the actuation surface is cup-shaped. In other embodiments, the actuation surface is v-shaped, with first and second angled portions forming oblique angles with respect to a lateral axis of the housing. Thus arranged, the actuator can be operated by a disabled who may not have complete hand or finger dexterity. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2013
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Applicant: SIMPLEXGRINNELL LP
    Inventor: SimplexGrinnell LP
  • Patent number: 8421605
    Abstract: Remote monitoring and inspection of measurement devices, emergency equipment, parking spaces, and other items is accomplished by using an image sensor (e.g., a CMOS sensor) to capture an image containing information about the monitored item. A signal containing information about the image (e.g., data representing the captured image or data indicating the state of the captured image) is transmitted to a remote central station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: en-Gauge, Inc.
    Inventors: Terrance Riedel, Brendan T. McSheffrey
  • Patent number: 8378808
    Abstract: A dual intercom-camera-interfaced smoke/fire detection system and method includes, inter alia, an interactive panoramic camera communication system operatively responsive to real-time emergency signals. The interactive camera service provider communications network independently and communicatively couples panoramic cameras in real-time to authorized peripheral electronic devices (APEDs) such that an emergency event is independently transmitted and directly viewed in real-time at the APEDs. The interactive camera service provider communications network is independently operable from a real-time emergency signal transmitting mechanism and a real-time emergency signal simultaneous transmitting mechanism, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventor: Torrain Gwaltney
  • Patent number: 8350693
    Abstract: A system includes a fire extinguisher station having a number of sensors to detect various predetermined conditions that can be communicated in alarms to a central station. The central station receives alarms from the fire extinguisher and determines whether to contact emergency personnel and/or building maintenance personnel. Other items of emergency equipment can be included in the system for improved detection and response to emergency conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: en-Gauge, Inc.
    Inventors: John J. McSheffrey, Sr., John J. McSheffrey, Jr., Brendan T. McSheffrey
  • Patent number: 8289146
    Abstract: A monitoring system for a NAC (Notification Appliance Circuit) is provided. The monitoring system includes a system controller, and a NAC comprised of one or more notification appliances that may be in a series. The NAC and its appliances may be operatively coupled to the system controller. The system controller is operable to determine whether a notification appliance has sufficient voltage at a low voltage operation. The system controller may control the voltage to the NAC in order to provide power to simulate operation of the NAC using battery power. A voltage may be measured during the simulation (such as at one end of the NAC). The measured voltage may be compared with a predetermined minimum operating voltage for the notification appliance. Based on the comparison, it may be determined whether the one or more appliances on the NAC may operate properly when the NAC is operated using battery power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: SimplexGrinnell LP
    Inventors: Johnpaul P. Barrieau, Gary Vincent, Mark P. Barrieau
  • Patent number: 8248216
    Abstract: Remote monitoring and inspection of measurement devices, emergency equipment, parking spaces, and other items is accomplished by using an image sensor (e.g., a CMOS sensor) to capture an image containing information about the monitored item. A signal containing information about the image (e.g., data representing the captured image or data indicating the state of the captured image) is transmitted to a remote central station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: en-Gauge, Inc.
    Inventors: Terrance Riedel, Brendan T. McSheffrey
  • Patent number: 8199002
    Abstract: A power saving wireless fire alarm system has a master station and a plurality of battery-powered fire detecting terminals linked for wireless communication with each other. Upon detection of a fire occurrence at one of the fire detecting terminals, the fire detecting terminal transmit a fire detection message to a master station which in turn transmit a wake-up message to the other fire detecting terminals and thereafter a fire information message which starts a multiple synchronous communication between the master station and the fire detecting terminals. Each fire detecting terminal has a power controller which selects an intermittent reception mode of activating its own receiver only intermittently until receiving the wake-up message or information indicative of the fire occurrence, and select a constant operation mode thereafter to make the fire detecting terminals be ready for the multiple synchronous communication commenced by the fire information message from the master station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Junichi Suzuki, Takashi Saeki, Koji Sakamoto, Masanori Kurita
  • Patent number: 8159361
    Abstract: An arrangement for use in a safety notification system includes primary and secondary power sources and a voltage converter. The primary power source provides power to a notification appliance circuit of a notification system. The secondary power source includes at least one battery. The voltage converter is coupled between the battery and the notification appliance circuit of the notification system, and is configured to generate a regulated DC voltage from an output voltage generated by the second power source. In general, the secondary power source is employed when the primary power source is not available or otherwise is not functioning. However, the secondary power source may also be employed in other circumstances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Siemens Industry, Inc.
    Inventor: Karen D. Lontka
  • Patent number: 8102245
    Abstract: A system can have a storage element that stores contact information for one or more messaging devices of one or more parties associated with an end user, a detection element that detects an emergency call initiated by the end user, and a transmission element that transmits a notice associated with the detected emergency call to at least one among the one or more messaging devices. Additional embodiments are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property I, LP
    Inventors: Mary McCarthy, Roland Noll
  • Patent number: 8068026
    Abstract: A periodic tester to determine the readiness of a fire pump system interfaces with a fire pump controller, an electric motor, and a sprinkler system. The fire pump controller has a power on/off sensor which interfaces with an electric motor which starts the fire pump to provide water to the sprinkler system. The power on/off system has a contactor coil as a component. The periodic tester targets two of the main components of fire system failure: the power on/off sensor and the contactor coil. The periodic tester may be retrofitted to existing systems and interface either directly or indirectly with the power on/off sensor to accommodate both systems that have a solenoid valve and those that do not. The periodic tester is designed to attempt to start the system only once during a set cycle. Any failure to start is displayed through audible and visual alarms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Inventors: Manuel J. Delerno, Vincent O. Rodriguez
  • Patent number: 8063763
    Abstract: A monitoring system for a NAC (Notification Appliance Circuit) is provided. The monitoring system includes a system controller, and a NAC comprised of one or more notification appliances that may be in a series. The NAC and its appliances may be operatively coupled to the system controller. The system controller is operable to determine whether a notification appliance has sufficient voltage at a low voltage operation. The system controller may control the voltage to the NAC in order to provide power to simulate operation of the NAC using battery power. A voltage may be measured during the simulation (such as at one end of the NAC). The measured voltage may be compared with a predetermined minimum operating voltage for the notification appliance. Based on the comparison, it may be determined whether the one or more appliances on the NAC may operate properly when the NAC is operated using battery power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: SimplexGrinnell LP
    Inventors: Johnpaul P. Barrieau, Gary Vincent, Mark P. Barrieau
  • Patent number: 8013755
    Abstract: An apparatus configured to integrate with existing fire system strobe/horn plates. The apparatus may be a mass notification plate. Also disclosed are embodiments of a strobe housing configured to mix and/or reflect light emitted from one or more light emitters, such as high intensity LEDs, through a lens. The lens may be configured to produce a mass notification pattern. Further disclosed are embodiments of systems and methods that may be configured to deliver strobe control signals and/or strobe color control signals over a two-wire fire system powerline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: UTC Fire & Security Americas Corporation, Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis Ted Rock, Steven Hein, Munro Howard Sykes, Gary Pollack
  • Patent number: 8009020
    Abstract: Remote monitoring and inspection of measurement devices, emergency equipment, parking spaces, and other items is accomplished by using a digital image sensor (e.g., a CMOS sensor) to capture a digital image containing information about the monitored item. A signal containing information about the digital image (e.g., data representing the captured digital image or data indicating the state of the captured digital image) is transmitted to a remote central station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: en-Gauge, Inc.
    Inventors: Terrance Riedel, Brendan T. McSheffrey
  • Patent number: 7978066
    Abstract: Disclosed is a navigation apparatus and method using RFID that is capable of providing information on a current position and a moving direction to the destination. An antenna unit has directivity in a predetermined direction and receives at least one radio signal transmitted from at least one RFID tag. An RFID reader converts the at least one radio signal provided by the antenna unit into information on the at least one RFID tag in a digital form, measures the reception strength of the at least one radio signal, and provides the information on the at least one RFID tag and information on the received strength. A control unit determines the current position and moving direction on the basis of the information on the at least one RFID tag and the information on the reception strength provided from the RFID reader. Accordingly, it is possible to accurately recognize the current position and the moving direction of the navigation apparatus and guide the moving direction to the destination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology
    Inventors: Hyuk Lim, Jae-Hyung Jang, Yung-Kwan Kim
  • Patent number: RE44102
    Abstract: An indexed database alarm and monitor, for assigning each unit of a multiple unit system a labeled index of pre-selected designations, and or descriptions of use by voice-playback and reporting, by voice-playback of first detecting units designation and or description of use by each unit in the system. Being comprised of the following components, a fire sensor, an alarm IC with piezo horn and detection I/O, a multiple position encoder, a 8-bit dip switch, a radio frequency decoder transmitter and receiver encoder with antenna switch and antenna, a voice-playback device with speaker and a microcontroller all housed within one unit. A complete system being comprised of a plurality of said units, equal to the number of positions on the multiple position encoder, each units multiple position encoders position being different and generating a different index.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Inventor: Calvin Walker