Flame Patents (Class 340/577)
  • Patent number: 7119678
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a system and method for the wireless light sensor input to a security system, wherein the light sensed by the light sensor is used to determine the activation and deactivation state of the security system. The system and method determine a light level threshold value and obtaining a light level value. Further, the obtained light level value is compared to a light level threshold value in order to determine if the present light level value is greater than or less than the light level threshold value, and finally, a signal is transmitted to a remote device in response to the comparison of the light level value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Assignee: Honeywell International, Inc.
    Inventor: Fred Katz
  • Patent number: 7119697
    Abstract: To detect flames burning carbon-free hydrogen-bearing fuels, first, second, and third sensors sense first, second and third regions of an infrared water emission band, and generate first, second, and third signals. A processor generates an alarm when the sensors indicate flame. The first region low cut-off wavelength may be lower than the second region low cut-off wavelength. The third region high cut-off wavelength may be higher than the second region high cut-off wavelength. The combined regions may include nearly the entire water emission band. The processor may discriminate distances to flames using the sensor signals. A fourth sensor may sense moisture concentration, and the processor may discriminate distances based thereon. The regions may be defined such that for a fire, all three regions receive substantial energy, with second region to first region energy ratio less than 1:1 and a second region to third region energy ratio less than 1:1.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Assignee: Detector Electronics Corporation
    Inventor: John D. King
  • Patent number: 7098796
    Abstract: A method and system for detecting early fires in a predetermined area includes capturing a plurality of images of the predetermined area during an interval for generating a plurality of difference frames, and detecting a number of pixels that have fire characteristics in each difference frame. If the detection result indicates that the flame of the predetermined area substantially increases during the interval, the method outputs an early fire alarm that can provide more time for firefighting. Thus, both early fire detection and reduction of false fire alarms are achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: Huper Laboratories Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chao-Ho Chen, Cheng-Liang Kao
  • Patent number: 7091869
    Abstract: The measuring arrangement contains a measuring cell and a reference cell, respectively, and microphones assigned to these cells, to which microphones an electronic evaluation circuit is connected and in which a subtraction of the signals of the microphones takes place, as well as a radiation source for applying a modulated signal to the measuring cell. The modulation frequency of the radiation source coincides with the resonant frequency of the measuring cell, and the measuring cell and the reference cell are open at at least one end to the gas to and/or aerosol to be detected. The measuring arrangement is used as smoke alarm, gas alarm, fire hazard alarm or as combined smoke and gas alarm, wherein each of the measuring cells is exposed to a radiation of a wavelength at which a relevant substance to be detected is absorbent and an opto-acoustic effect is produced as a result.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: Siemens Building Technologies AG
    Inventors: Martin Forster, Peter Nebiker
  • Patent number: 7064660
    Abstract: A system and method for inferring an electronic rendering (170) of an environment (110) comprises a plurality of devices (341 and 345), and a processing device. Each wireless device is capable of determining a distance between a neighboring wireless device. Moreover, each device is capable of performing at least one of the following: determining an environmental attribute of the environment, and determining a location of an object in the environment. The processing device gathers information determined from the plurality of devices and infers the electronic rendering of the environment based on the information gathered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2006
    Assignee: Motorola, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew R. Perkins, Robert J. O'Dea, Mark J. Johnson, Neal K. Patwari
  • Patent number: 7046154
    Abstract: The invention relates to a flame-monitoring device in which an a.c. input voltage (U1) is limited to a voltage limit (U2) by means of a voltage limiter (4). Said voltage limit (U2) is applied to a flame sensing device (7) which operates by means of the rectifying effect of a flame, and through which a current (i) flows, especially when a flame (6) is present. An asymmetric voltage limit (U2) can be defined by said voltage limiter (4), said limit being then applied to the sensing device (7).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Assignee: Siemens Building Technologies AG
    Inventors: Klaus Bott, Alexander Diebold, Jürgen Hoffmann, Reiner Kind
  • Patent number: 7030766
    Abstract: A device with a multi-function test feature for assessing or directing multiple sensor functions is provided for monitoring and interrogating air flow through Heating/Ventilation/Air-conditioning (HVAC)-type ducts for changes to ambient conditions such as smoke, heat, gas, and/or relative humidity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Edwards Systems Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Right, Hilario Costa, Jan Braam, Paul Schatz
  • Patent number: 7009521
    Abstract: A contactless ambient condition detection system includes at least one base connectable to a power and signal transmitting cable and a compatible detector. The detector removably engages the base. Electrical energy, from the cable is wirelessly coupled to the detector via the base. The detector is in wireless bidirectional communication with the base. Alarm indicating signals, generated remotely, can be wirelessly coupled, from the cable via the base, to the detector. Locally generated alarms can be wirelessly coupled to the cable. Detectors can be replaced without exposing the installer to AC contacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Assignee: BRK Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Floyd E. Brooks, Romualdo S. Siazon, Kenneth L. Venzant, Derek S. Johnston
  • Patent number: 7008218
    Abstract: There is described a method and apparatus for controlling the combustion by-product formation rate in at least one burner of a fossil fuel fired power plant. The burner has an associated flame scanner which is focused on a small area of the burner flame to obtain an image signal of the flame. A flame signal that represents properties of temporal combustion in the visible light spectrum of the burner is generated from the image signal. Combustion turbulence at the burner is analyzed from the flame signal by a dynamic invariant that has a relationship to the combustion by-product values and different combustion by-product levels at the burner and the combustion turbulence is correlated to the combustion by-product formation rate at the burner. The method and apparatus can also be used to correlated the combustion turbulence at a multiplicity of burners to the associated combustion by-product formation rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Assignee: ABB Inc.
    Inventors: Hui Zhang, Paul H. Chase, James M. Niziolek
  • Patent number: 7002478
    Abstract: A method of operating a computer for smoke and flame detection comprising the steps of: receiving digitised images of the region to be monitored; comparing pixels of one of said images with pixels of another said image according to two predetermined procedures to produce a flame present decision and a smoke present decision; and providing a fire detected signal according to said smoke present and flame present decisions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Assignee: VSD Limited
    Inventors: Ian Frederick Moore, Edward Grellier Colby, Michael John Black
  • Patent number: 6989745
    Abstract: A sensor unit for use in a surveillance system is provided. The sensor unit interfaces with a sensor device to receive sensor data from the sensor device. The sensor unit is configured to generate an event record based upon received sensor data. The event record is of a predetermined format and is output to a data unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Assignee: Vistascape Security Systems Corp.
    Inventors: Tomislav F. Milinusic, Demetrios Papacharalampos, Alexander Danileiko
  • Patent number: 6985080
    Abstract: An analog flame sense circuit is provided that utilizes the flame rectification method of sensing flame. The circuit uses an AC voltage source and discrete components to provide the sensing of the flame current. Either a single-pole or a two-pole filter may be used to smooth the generated sense voltage. A DC bias is provided to the filter to ensure a positive voltage. The circuit also includes a high-gain, high-impedance amplifier to translate the high impedance voltage of the sensing portion of the circuit to a relatively low impedance voltage for use by an electronic control circuit. In one embodiment, a high-gain emitter-follower amplifier constructed from two bi-polar junction transistors (BJTs) is used. An integrated Darlington configuration may be used, as well as a single BJT having a high gain, and an integrated operational amplifier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2006
    Assignee: Ranco Incorporated of Delaware
    Inventors: John Kociecki, Yelena N. Kaplan
  • Patent number: 6975235
    Abstract: A temperature warning system for a fireplace includes, for example, an arrangement to sense a temperature of at least one area of the fireplace and a signaling device controlled by the arrangement to provide a signal responsive to the temperature of the area. The arrangement may include an electrical circuit including a thermistor positioned outside the viewing area to measure the temperature of an area of the fireplace. The signaling device may include visual or audible signaling devices for signaling to a user when an area of the fireplace is above a threshold temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Assignee: HON Technology Inc.
    Inventors: Bradley Dean Determan, Thomas J. Bachinski, David J. Oja
  • Patent number: 6967582
    Abstract: A sensor of incident ambient photons is combined, in a detector with one or more sensors responsive to other types of ambient parameters such as gas, humidity, temperature or the like. Outputs from the sensors are processed to establish the existence of one of a hazardous condition, a non-hazardous condition and a false alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Lee D. Tice, Dragan Petrovic, Paul J. Sistare
  • Patent number: 6960987
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a fire alarm system for connecting a plurality of fire sensors to sensor lines, and giving an alarm in response to fire information output from the fire sensor in a line unit. The fire alarm system includes a current modulation section and an address specification section. The current modulation section is used for maintaining a current flowing in the sensor line at a predetermined value for a predetermined time at the time of a fire, and modulating the current in accordance with the inherent address information of the fire sensor. The address specification section is used for sensing fire information by judging whether or not the current has been maintained at the predetermined value for the predetermined time, and also for specifying the inherent address of the fire sensor that issued the fire information, from the modulated state of the current.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2005
    Assignee: Hochiki Corporation
    Inventors: Manabu Dohi, Masahiko Nemoto, Naoto Yamano, Hiroshi Shima, Naoya Matsuoka
  • Patent number: 6956485
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for the detection of flame by entering (S1) a video signal into an algorithm which processes individual pixels in (S2) a frequency band is determined and used as a filter (S3) applies a threshold to create a map of significant movement (S4) applies an awareness map (S5) a number of parameters are calculated to decide whether flame is present in the video images being processed (S6) applies further filtering before indicating an alarm registering the presence of a flame threat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Assignee: VSD Limited
    Inventors: Robert Frederick Aird, Edward Grellier Colby, Michael John Black
  • Patent number: 6952169
    Abstract: A wireless automatic detection and suppression system for the detection and suppression of a hazard within an environment, the system includes a wireless automatic suppression apparatus, and at least one detector positioned about the environment to detect a hazard, each detector further includes a transceiver for transmitting a wireless signal to a receiver upon detecting a hazard. The receiver is in communication with the apparatus. The apparatus also includes a cylinder containing an extinguishing agent and a valve attached to the cylinder. The valve has at least one discharge port that may be opened such that the extinguishing agent flows through each discharge port and out a discharge nozzle positioned about the environment. A receiver is in communication with the valve such that upon receiving a wireless signal that a hazard exists in the environment the valve will automatically open and expel the extinguishing agent out of the discharge nozzle(s).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2005
    Inventor: Adrian Simtion
  • Patent number: 6914535
    Abstract: A light scattering type smoke sensor comprising a holder with openings embedded with light emitting part and light detecting part respectively, which do not protrude into the smoke detection chamber. The optical axis of light emitting part intersects at a predetermined first angle ? in the horizontal direction with the optical axis of the light detecting part at a predetermined second angle ? in the vertical direction. The optical axis of the light emitting part and optical axis of the light detecting part further comprise a configuration angle ? in the range of 90˜120 degrees used as the supplementary angle for the scattering angle ?. Accordingly, the smoke detection part is further constituted in a thin-shaped light scattering smoke sensor which enables the setup of a scattering angle with no directivity in the smoke influx to the smoke detection chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Assignee: Hochiki Corporation
    Inventors: Hidenari Matsukuma, Manabu Dohi, Hiroshi Honma, Hiroshi Shima
  • Patent number: 6914534
    Abstract: An adverse condition detector that allows the user to visually determine the type of adverse condition being detected. The adverse condition detector includes a sensor and a control unit coupled to the sensor. When the sensor detects an adverse condition above a selected level, the control unit generates an audible alarm signal and a visual alarm signal. The visual alarm signal simulates the type of adverse condition being detected. In one embodiment of the invention, the visual alarm signal includes a plurality of visual indicators operated in a random fashion to simulate the appearance of a flame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Assignee: Maple Chase Company
    Inventor: William P. Tanguay
  • Patent number: 6903357
    Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method for solid state spark detection are disclosed. A semiconducting photodetector has a pair of electrical conductors for carrying an electrical current generated when the semiconducting photodetector receives light energy generated by sparks. An electrical current detector is operably coupled with the electrical conductors for sensing the electrical current generated to signal receipt of the light energy generated by sparks. The present invention can be coupled to a monitoring device, such as an oscilloscope, for monitoring intensity and/or timing of spark phenomena. A plurality of semiconducting photodetectors and associated electrical current detectors may be used in concert if desired. The semiconducting photodetectors are suitably adapted to respond to light energy of different magnitudes or wavelengths to more particularly study sparks of different natures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Andrew M. Robb
  • Patent number: 6885298
    Abstract: A fuel cell system includes a fuel cell stack with single fuel cells stacked together in a fuel cell housing and a detection system for fire or elevated temperatures. The detection system may include a monitoring system; a sensor unit that detects fire or elevated temperatures inside said fuel cell housing; and a voltage or current source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Assignee: Ballard Power Systems AG
    Inventors: Ted Everson, Adrian Corless, Edward Mufford
  • Patent number: 6844818
    Abstract: A smoke detection system comprising video camera monitoring means, video frame comparison means, signal processing means, and alarm generating means dependant on an output from the signal processing means; the signal processing means being arranged to analyse successive frames acquired by the video camera monitoring means and to compare the intensity and/or colour of individual pixels or group of pixels so as to consider the overall characteristics and inter-relationships of these pixels so as to detect the presence of smoke characterised in that the signal processing means analyses a plurality of different types of change in the said characteristics and inter-relationships.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Assignee: VSD Limited
    Inventor: Henry Joseph Grech-Cini
  • Patent number: 6829513
    Abstract: The present invention provides an application which is used to program building systems such as fire safety systems. It is an object of the invention to provide a method for creating one or more configuration files for the control panel of a fire safety system to allow the control panel to more efficiently control the fire safety system. The present provides a method for creating one or more system configurations. The configuration file may be comprised of one or more user created views.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Assignee: Siemens Building Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Frank Piersanti, Tien Nguyen, Reto Hug
  • Patent number: 6828913
    Abstract: A dispersion light smoke detector has a structure for providing a definite measuring volume, the structure being formed as two light receivers or an imaging optical system for one light receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Ulrich Oppelt, Andreas Hensel, Bernd Siber, Anton Pfefferseder
  • Patent number: 6801132
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and device for the early detection of fire and for fighting fire indoors and outdoors, especially in living areas, of homes and buildings. According to the invention, a central freely programmable domestic control block comprising an intelligent bus system, sensors, and actuators controls, regulates and monitors the domestic technical system and, at the same time, sensors detect the direct and indirect fire characteristics, which are monitored by a separate check, control and regulating block that activates an extinguishing agent supply system when a set value has been exceeded. The aim of the invention is to improve a method and device of the aforementioned type such that the extinguishing agent is variably and selectively discharged with a high degree of efficacy by the provision of a system which can be modularly integrated in the security design of a building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2004
    Inventors: Torsten Clauss, Andreas Schmidt, Wassil Jansen
  • Patent number: 6801133
    Abstract: An electrical wiring monitoring system for sensing overheating of electrical lines which could result in electrical fires. The electrical wiring monitoring system includes a housing member having front and side walls and being adapted to be mounted to a wall structure near a fuse box; and also includes a cover member being hingedly attached to the housing member and being closeable over the front wall of the housing member; and further includes a monitor assembly including a microprocessor being disposed in the housing member, and also including a power source being connected to the microprocessor, and further including an alarm-sounding assembly being connected to the microprocessor, and also including an electrical line control/display assembly being connected to the microprocessor; and also includes wire overheating detection members being connected to the microprocessor and being attached about electrical wires of electrical lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2004
    Inventor: Edgardo Ham
  • Publication number: 20040178914
    Abstract: A circuit for a flame sensor and a method for sensing the presence of a flame in a burner. The signal from the sensor is passed to an amplifier located adjacent to the sensor and amplified without having a sensor signal contaminated with common mode radiation. The pulsed signal is passed from the amplifier to a rectifier. The pulsed signal of the amplifier is a fully amplified signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2003
    Publication date: September 16, 2004
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL THERMAL INVESTMENTS LTD.
    Inventor: Nader Kiarostami
  • Publication number: 20040178915
    Abstract: The invention relates to a flame-monitoring device in which an a.c. input voltage (U1) is limited to a voltage limit (U2) by means of a voltage limiter (4). Said voltage limit (U2) is applied to a flame sensing device (7) which operates by means of the rectifying effect of a flame, and through which a current (i) flows, especially when a flame (6) is present. An asymmetric voltage limit (U2) can be defined by said voltage limiter (4), said limit being then applied to the sensing device (7).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2003
    Publication date: September 16, 2004
    Inventors: Klaus Bott, Alexander Diebold, Jurgen Hoffmann, Reiner Kind
  • Publication number: 20040174265
    Abstract: An analog flame sense circuit is provided that utilizes the flame rectification method of sensing flame. The circuit uses an AC voltage source and discrete components to provide the sensing of the flame current. Either a single-pole or a two-pole filter may be used to smooth the generated sense voltage. A DC bias is provided to the filter to ensure a positive voltage. The circuit also includes a high-gain, high-impedance amplifier to translate the high impedance voltage of the sensing portion of the circuit to a relatively low impedance voltage for use by an electronic control circuit. In one embodiment, a high-gain emitter-follower amplifier constructed from two bi-polar junction transistors (BJTs) is used. An integrated Darlington configuration may be used, as well as a single BJT having a high gain, and an integrated operational amplifier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2003
    Publication date: September 9, 2004
    Applicant: Ranco Incorporated of Delaware
    Inventors: John Kociecki, Yelena N. Kaplan
  • Patent number: 6788208
    Abstract: A method and a fire-alarm system controls stationary fire-extinguishing systems. The fire-alarm devices of the fire-alarm system are equipped with one or more detectors. If at least one pre-adjustable alarm threshold of a fire identification characteristic is reached, the fire-extinguishing device is activated and the fire detectors are selectively switched to a higher stage of sensitivity. The detectors to be switched are locally selected depending on the actual development of the fire in terms of space. The dynamic adaptation of the sensitivity of the detectors to the development of a fire permits analyzing the development of the fire through the generated smoke, water vapor or extinguishing-water mist, and to influence the fire-extinction process in a targeted manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Assignee: Minimax GmbH
    Inventor: Hauke Dittmer
  • Patent number: 6784798
    Abstract: Due to the presence of various environmental condition detectors in the home and businesses such as smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, natural gas detectors, etc., each having individual but similar sounding alarm patterns, it can be difficult for occupants of such dwellings to immediately determine the specific type of environmental condition that exists during an alarm condition. The present invention comprises an environmental condition detector using both tonal pattern alarms and pre-recorded voice messages to indicate information about the environmental condition being sensed. Single-station battery-powered and 120VAC detectors are described as are multiple-station interconnected 120VAC powered detectors. The pre-recorded voice messages describe the type of environmental condition detected or the location of the environmental condition detector sensing the condition, or both, in addition to the tonal pattern alarm. Provisions are made for multi-lingual pre-recorded voice messages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Inventor: Gary Jay Morris
  • Publication number: 20040112114
    Abstract: A detector for smoke, heat or the like, which has test function circuitry capable of initiating verification of the detector operation, including testing of a communication path between the detector and a central control unit. The test is actuated on receipt of a signal initiated at the detector, which indicates success by illuminating the detector's LED. An operator is able to initiate the test by means of a laser pointer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2003
    Publication date: June 17, 2004
    Inventors: Steve J Penney, Paul J Taylor
  • Patent number: 6731207
    Abstract: A modular detector includes at least one module receiving port. Members of a plurality of modules have a common form factor and are removably insertable into the port. Members of the plurality, when inserted, implement a selected communication, sensing or output function. One module can be removed and replaced with another thereby changing detector characteristics. A respective detector could have several ports to receive a plurality of insertable modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: BRK Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael A. Swieboda, Mark A. Devine, Andrew J. Ivanecky, Kenneth L. Venzant, Derek S. Johnston, Romualdo S. Siazon, Floyd E. Brooks
  • Patent number: 6719456
    Abstract: A method of detecting fire ignition sources includes using an electronic temperature sensor to probe potential ignition sites. The fire hazards for the sites are determined based on at least one of measurements of temperatures at or near the site, measurements of rate of temperature rise at or near the site, and measurements of temperature gradients at or near the site. Apparatus for performing the method is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Inventors: Randall S. Mundt, James C. Mundt
  • Publication number: 20040063154
    Abstract: A smoke detector of an obscuration type has an effective light propagation path of substantially greater length than the light propagation paths of conventional obscuration-type smoke detectors to provide increased smoke detection sensitivity without increased background noise or numbers of false alarm incidents. The smoke detector has a light source that emits a light beam that propagates into a detection chamber composed of first and second optical components having respective first and second opposed light reflecting surfaces. The light reflecting surfaces reflect the light beam across the detection chamber multiple times before the reflected light beam is incident on a light detector. The multiple reflections of the light beam increase its effective path length of propagation within the detection chamber to provide the increased smoke detection sensitivity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2003
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: David K. Booth, Douglas H. Marman, Gary E. Friar
  • Patent number: 6700495
    Abstract: The invention relates to a flame monitor for an oil- or gas-operated burner, having a photosensor which detects the optical flame radiation and an evaluation circuit which is connected downstream of said photosensor and ascertains whether the radiation received by the photosensor corresponds to that of a burning flame and, in the event of a negative result, generates a switch-off signal for the fuel supply, wherein the evaluation circuit determines the number of zero crossings of the processed signal of the photosensor within a predetermined unit of time and compares it with a predetermined limit value, a switch-off signal for the fuel supply being generated when said limit value is undershot, the signal of the photosensor, freed from the DC voltage component and noise, being processed by corresponding amplification to form square-wave pulses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: BFI Automation
    Inventors: Kurt-Henry Mindermann, Mirko Loncaric
  • Publication number: 20030201899
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a fire detector having a sensor group (10), which contains at least one conventional fire detection sensor (12, 13); and having a control and evaluation unit (9), which is connected to the sensor group (10), set up to evaluate the signal (S2, S3) supplied by the at least one fire detection sensor, and if necessary, set up to output at least one control signal (T1; T2) for the fire detection sensor(s) (12, 13); the fire detector being characterized in that the sensor group (10) also has a chemosensor (11) or a chemosensor array, which is likewise connected to the control and evaluation unit (9) for evaluating the detection signal (S1) of the chemosensor or chemosensor array, and which is set up on the basis of a chemical sensor-operation principle to detect gas and/or smoke emissions created by fire. The additional chemosensor is preferredly an optoelectronic gas sensor functioning on an optode basis, or an optoelectronic gas sensor array functioning on an optode basis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2000
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventors: Joachim Schneider, Anton Pfefferseder, Andreas Hensel, Ulrich Oppelt
  • Publication number: 20030174056
    Abstract: A system for verifying the detection of a fire event by a fire detection device utilizing multiple air condition sensors includes a programmable logic circuit that evaluates whether input data supplied thereto by the sensors satisfies predetermined threshold parameters. If the input data matches one particular parameter, the other threshold parameters are decreased and evaluation frequency is increased. The circuit energizes an alarm if input data from the sensors satisfies the particular parameter and at least one of the decreased parameters or if the input data satisfies at least two non-decreased parameters. Therefore, a fire event sensed by one sensor is verified by another sensor before causing an alarm. At power-up, the circuit compares initial input data with the predetermined parameters and modifies the parameters if the input data is within respective predetermined ranges. This also decreases false alarms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2002
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventor: Bob F. Harshaw
  • Publication number: 20030141979
    Abstract: A flame detection system utilizing microcomputer control of a unique self-checking signal interruption system for checking the status of the sensing tube by employing solid state switches and a balance beam shutter. The microcomputer uses a diode and a solid state relay circuit to generate a compatible signal output to a burner control.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2002
    Publication date: July 31, 2003
    Inventors: Gary G. Wild, John D. Eley
  • Patent number: 6600424
    Abstract: Due to the presence of various environmental condition detectors in the home and businesses such as smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, natural gas detectors, etc., each having individual but similar sounding alarm patterns, it can be difficult for occupants of such dwellings to immediately determine the specific type of environmental condition that exists during an alarm condition. The present invention comprises an environmental condition detector using both tonal pattern alarms and pre-recorded voice messages to indicate information about the environmental condition being sensed. Single-station battery-powered and 120VAC detectors are described as are multiple-station interconnected 120VAC powered detectors. The pre-recorded voice messages describe the type of environmental condition detected or the location of the environmental condition detector sensing the condition, or both, in addition to the tonal pattern alarm. Provisions are made for multi-lingual pre-recorded voice messages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Inventor: Gary Jay Morris
  • Patent number: 6597288
    Abstract: An improved fire alarm system capable of reliably detecting the presence of fire caused by different sources. The fire alarm system detects a smoke density (S) as well as a temperature difference (&Dgr;T) within a predetermined time interval, and has primary criteria of (i) whether the smoke density (S) exceeds a smoke threshold [e.g., S>5%/m]; (ii) whether the temperature difference (&Dgr;T) exceeds a temperature difference threshold [e.g., &Dgr;T≧18 C]; and (iii) whether a combination of S and &Dgr;T satisfies an inequality [e.g. 2S+&Dgr;T≧12] which is based upon a decreasing function of &Dgr;T with an increase of S. The detected smoke density and the temperature difference are examined with reference to the primary criteria so as to provide a fire warning signal indicating a possible fire presence when anyone of the above primary criteria is satisfied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Works, Ltd.
    Inventors: Masayuki Amano, Takayuki Nishikawa, Takeshi Wada, Shoichi Oka, Junichi Watanabe
  • Publication number: 20030112140
    Abstract: A fuel cell system includes a fuel cell stack with single fuel cells stacked together in a fuel cell housing and a detection system for fire or elevated temperatures. The detection system may include a monitoring system; a sensor unit that detects fire or elevated temperatures inside said fuel cell housing; and a voltage or current source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2001
    Publication date: June 19, 2003
    Inventors: Ted Everson, Adrian Corless, Edward Mufford
  • Patent number: 6577242
    Abstract: An ambient condition detector incorporates a common radiant energy source to carry out a first, sensing, function and a second, information transmitting function. The source can generate a beam to implement a fire sensing function. In addition, modulated radiant energy emitted from the source can be remotely sensed to determine detector status or internal parameter values. In an alternate embodiment, a source of radiant energy can be configured at an exterior periphery of the detector and information can be wirelessly transmitted therefrom using one or more analog modulation processes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Assignee: Pittway Corporation
    Inventors: Hsing C. Jen, James S. Slater
  • Publication number: 20030080865
    Abstract: An alarm system is provided which includes multiple notification appliances for signaling an alarm condition. The system controller intelligently controls the notification appliances including notification devices such as an audible or visual alarm through multi-bit digital messages sent over communication lines. The alarm system has both a standby and active mode of operation in which communication between the controller and notification appliances is possible in both modes of operation. In the standby mode, the notification appliances are powered at a first voltage level. Communication between the notification appliances and the system controller is provided by sending data pulses along the communication lines relative to the first voltage level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2002
    Publication date: May 1, 2003
    Applicant: ADT Services AG
    Inventors: Anthony J. Capowski, Michael A. Furtado, Paul H. Maier
  • Patent number: 6556141
    Abstract: An apparatus for flameout detection to be used with a furnace having a sight hole tube for inspection of a flame. The apparatus comprises a fixed portion adapted for being mounted to the sight hole tube and being electrically connected to a control system. The fixed portion defines a first see-through channel being positioned opposite a sight hole of the sight hole tube, whereby the flame is visible therethrough. A detachable portion has a sensor device disposed therein a second see-through channel. The detachable portion is releasably mounted to the fixed portion such as to engage a contact connection therewith. The sensor device is disposed opposite the first see-through channel of the fixed portion for flameout detection therethrough, wherein the detachable portion is electrically disconnected upon being detached from the fixed portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Assignee: PIA Procédé Industriel Automatisé Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Ouellette, Roland Fabry
  • Patent number: 6545608
    Abstract: A flame-sensing element and supporting circuitry is disguised by installing it in an object normally found within the type of room in which it is to monitor. In the best example, a lavatory is monitored by installing a mock fire-safety sprinkler head on the ceiling; the glass-bulb trigger element of a sprinkler head is replaced with a glass bulb flame-sensing element. Alternatively, the glass bulb flame-sensing element and associated electronics may be concealed in a housing designed to house a room deodorant, an air purifier of the ultraviolet or ozone-generating type, a reservoir for a liquid toilet bowl or urinal deodorant, behind the grille of a ventilating air vent, behind the grille of a loudspeaker housing, or within the housing of a smoke detector. The disguise or concealment is meant to hide the apparatus from notice by a surreptitious smoker who would smoke tobacco in an area wherein smoking is prohibited, especially in school lavatories.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Inventor: Michael G. Kaufman
  • Publication number: 20030058114
    Abstract: A fire detection system for an enclosed area comprises: at least one infrared (IR) imager for generating infrared images of at least a portion of the enclosed area, for determining from the images that a fire is perceived present in the enclosed area, and for generating a first signal indicative of the perceived presence of fire; at least one fire detector for monitoring at least a portion of the enclosed area, the fire detector comprising at least one fire byproduct chemical sensor for generating at least one second signal representative of the presence of at least one fire byproduct chemical in the enclosed area; and a controller governed by the first and second signals to confirm that a fire is present in the enclosed area. In one embodiment, the enclosed area is divided into a plurality of detection zones with at least one fire detector disposed at each detection zone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2002
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Inventors: Mark S. Miller, Thomas G. Wiegele
  • Patent number: 6515589
    Abstract: A scattering light smoke alarm has a light transmitter and a light receiver arranged so that a scattering point of the light transmitter and the light receiver are located outside the scattering light smoke alarm in a free space, a cover for protecting the light receiver and the light transmitter, and an element for distinguishing between smoke and other foreign bodies which are located in an area around the scattering point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Joachim Schneider, Anton Pfefferseder, Bernd Siber, Andreas Hensel, Ulrich Oppelt
  • Patent number: 6501383
    Abstract: The method according to the invention of monitoring a flame uses the known principle that a direct current signal (IF) of different magnitude is produced in dependence on the presence or intensity of the flame from an ac voltage signal. That purpose is served for example by ionization electrodes (3) or ultraviolet sensors (4, 4a) which in dependence on the intensity of the flame produce a corresponding direct current signal. When the flame is extinguished no direct current signal is produced. The direct current signal (IF) is detected by an evaluation circuit (6) and converted into a first output signal (A), wherein conversion is effected by various further circuit elements (7, 9, 10) in such a way that differently changing output signals (A1, A2) are obtained depending on the respective flame intensity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Assignee: Siemens Building Technologies AG
    Inventor: Karl-Friedrich Haupenthal
  • Patent number: 6491516
    Abstract: A Hanukkiah (10) for carrying combustible candles (12) includes a sense circuit (16) coupled to an output circuit (18). The output circuit comprising at least one of an electronic playback device (112), an electromechanical device (52), or a light source device (46), or a combination thereof. Sense circuit (16) includes a flame-responsive circuit (16A) adapted and arranged to respond to a portion of energy emitted by a lit shamash (12A) candle of the Hanukkiah, and an RF receiver circuit (16B) adapted and arranged to respond to a portion of predetermined RF signal. A dreidel (200) is further provided comprising a rotation-sensitive RF transmitting circuit (230) for generating predetermined RF signals upon spinning of the dreidel. The flame of shamash (12A) and/or the spinning of dreidel (200) are adapted to activate output circuit (18) of Hanukkiah (10) to provide entertaining audible and/or visual output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Inventors: Guy Tal, Ran Tal