Smoke Patents (Class 340/628)
  • Publication number: 20120050051
    Abstract: A fire detector has a detection unit working on the optical scattered-light principle, as well as an electronic evaluation unit. An acoustic and/or optical warning device outputs an acoustic and/or optical alarm when a fire is detected. The fire detector has an energy storage device, in particular a battery, for the autarkic supply of electrical power to the fire detector as well as a voltage measuring unit for measuring a battery voltage present at the energy storage device. A warning device outputs an acoustic warning if the battery voltage falls below a first voltage threshold. The fire detector also has a sensor sensitive to ambient light and a device for suppressing the output of the acoustic warning if the ambient light falls below a predefinable brightness threshold. The detection unit is an open scattered-light detection unit with a detection space outside the fire detector and the sensor sensitive to ambient light is at the same time an optical receiver of the scattered-light detection unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventor: MICHAEL CLOSSEN-VON LANKEN SCHULZ
  • Patent number: 8120501
    Abstract: A window with built-in devices that senses carbon monoxide; powered only by the exterior daylight; that automatically opens by itself and sounds an alarm when a dangerous level of carbon monoxide is sensed to release the accumulated carbon monoxide and let the clean air with fresh oxygen enter the contaminated area to prevent or minimize poisoning and/or death of humans & animals without the need of any human physical action; the provided contacts can be connected to a private alarm station to alert the Fire & Police Departments to provide immediate assistance to the endangered humans & animals and protect the opened residence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Inventor: Alfredo Mancini
  • Patent number: 8111168
    Abstract: A smoke detector comprises a first housing to face an area in which to detect smoke, a second housing secured to the first housing, electronics to detect smoke within the area, and a flameproof barrier positioned between the first and second housings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: Kidde Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth Frazer Bell
  • Patent number: 8106784
    Abstract: A combination smoke and heat detector which allows, in spite of a simple structure, light emitted from an indication lamp to be visually confirmed from a wide range of directions. The combination smoke and heat detector (100) includes a body base (10), a printed circuit board (1), a thermosensitive element (2), a dark chamber (3), an indication lamp (4) mounted to the printed circuit board (1), a protective cover (30), and a bar-like light guide (5) for guiding light emitted from the indication lamp (4) to the outside of the protective cover (30). The light guide (5) passes through a light guide through-hole (35) formed in the protective cover (30) so as to be mounted therein, with one end surface thereof facing the indication lamp (4), and another end surface thereof protruding to the outside of the protective cover (30) by a height substantially equal to or larger than a protruding height of the dark chamber (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Nohmi Bosai Ltd.
    Inventors: Tomohiro Katou, Takashi Itou, Kenichi Katou
  • Patent number: 8106785
    Abstract: To enable an air velocity of sampling air to be precisely measured, a smoke detector (S) includes: a smoke detection part (22) connected to a sampling pipe (11); a fan (12) that sucks sampling air (SA) into the sampling pipe; and an air velocity sensor (15) that measures an air velocity of the sampling air within the sampling pipe. The air velocity sensor (15) is disposed at a primary side of the fan (12), and a straightening vane (25) is disposed between the air velocity sensor (15) and a suction port (12a) of the fan (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Nohmi Bosai Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Yokota
  • Patent number: 8098166
    Abstract: An aspirated smoke detector includes a smoke sensor, an aspirator and variable speed control circuits. As the concentration of smoke increases, the speed control circuits can increase aspirator speed from a first, nominal value to a second, higher value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Scott Lang
  • Patent number: 8094030
    Abstract: A fire detection system comprises a detection unit (2A) able to measure an electrical quantity between a first (BOA) and a second (B1A) terminal, and a first detector (11A) connected to the first and second terminals (BOA, B1A) and able to form a first value of the electrical quantity in a determined state of the first detector, for example in the event of the detecting of a fire in a first zone (Z). A second detector (12A) connected to the first and second terminals (BOA, B1A) is able to form a second value of the electrical quantity in said determined state, that is to say for example in the event of the detecting of a fire in a second zone, and a third value of the electrical quantity in another state different from the determined state, that is to say for example during normal operation. The first value and the third value are different from the second value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Airbus Operations SAS
    Inventor: Laurent Escaich
  • Patent number: 8089366
    Abstract: To enable an air velocity of sampling air to be precisely measured, a smoke detector (S) includes: a smoke detection part (22) connected to a sampling pipe (11); a fan (12) that sucks sampling air (SA) into the sampling pipe; and an air velocity sensor (15) that measures an air velocity of the sampling air within the sampling pipe. The air velocity sensor (15) is disposed at a primary side of the fan (12), and a straightening vane (25) is disposed between the air velocity sensor (15) and a suction port (12a) of the fan (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: Nohmi Bosai Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Yokota
  • Publication number: 20110317007
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a smoke and carbon monoxide alarm system including a smoke and carbon monoxide alarm device and a base unit connected to the smoke and carbon monoxide alarm device through at least one of wire connection or wireless connection. The smoke and carbon monoxide alarm device can include a control circuit configured to receive an input signal and transmit an alarm signal; a first sensor coupled to the control circuit, the first sensor being configured to generate the input signal upon detecting smoke; a second sensor coupled to the control circuit, the second sensor being configured to generate the input signal upon detecting carbon monoxide; and a camera coupled to the control circuit, the camera being configured to be activated by the control circuit when the alarm signal is transmitted to an alarm. The base unit can include a cellular transceiver configured to transmit images captured by the camera to a pre-determined remote station.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2010
    Publication date: December 29, 2011
    Inventor: Ki-Il KIM
  • Patent number: 8084890
    Abstract: A system for detecting and preventing electrical fire includes an intake fuse box, a main distribution panel/housing, a subdistribution panel/housing, a main power circuit (MPC) connecting the intake fuse box (IFB) to the main distribution panel (MDP), and a sub power circuit (SPC) connecting the MDP to the subdistribution panel. First-third gas/smoke/heat detectors are arranged in the IFB, main panel housing, and subpanel housing, respectively, and provide respective low level outputs for gas/smoke/heat exceeding a first threshold and high level outputs for a second threshold. A remote controlled main level circuit breaker is arranged in the MPC, a remote controlled sub level circuit breaker is arranged in the SPC, and a controller unit has first-third inputs connected to first-third gas/smoke/heat detectors, respectively, for receiving first-third low and high level outputs, an alarm output, and first and second breaker control outputs connected to respective main and sub level circuit breakers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Inventor: Per Erik Lie
  • Patent number: 8085147
    Abstract: A building security arrangement includes a sensor for emitting an audible alarm signal. A security system installed in the building detects the audible alarm signal and transmits an electrical alarm signal over a public switched telephone network in response to the detection of the audible alarm signal. A central monitoring station receives the electrical alarm signal over the public switched telephone network and notifies an alarm authority in response to receiving the electrical alarm signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignees: Bosch Security Systems Inc, Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Michael G. Marriam, James R Riley, Steven Markham
  • Patent number: 8085157
    Abstract: A multi-frequency photoelectric smoke detector includes a multi-frequency, source and an multi-frequency sensing array. The array can be part of a solid state camera which can be used to sense scattered multi-frequency light. Multiple wavelength signals, red, blue green for example, emitted by the camera can be analyzed to determine a degree of airborne particulate matter in a sensing region between the source and the array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Lorenzo Luterotti
  • Publication number: 20110304469
    Abstract: An alarm for detecting radiation and/or pollutants such as smoke, carbon monoxide or the like, the alarm comprises: an alarm circuit (12) including detection means (14) for detecting the radiation and/or pollutants, and an audible alarm (16); a power supply circuit (24) connectable to an external AC power supply for supplying standby power to the alarm circuit (12); and a battery (20) for supplying power to the audible alarm (16) when the alarm is energised. The power supply circuit (20) is configured to supply current to the alarm circuit (12) at a level less than that required to energise the audible alarm (16).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2010
    Publication date: December 15, 2011
    Applicant: Sprue Safety Products LTD.
    Inventors: Nicholas Rutter, Stuart Hart
  • Patent number: 8077046
    Abstract: A fire detector and method of using it generate a fire alarm through use of a smoke detector and a carbon monoxide detector once the smoke detector detects a threshold level of light obscuration for greater than a first pre-selected time period or a reduced threshold level of light obscuration for greater than a second pre-selected time period or the CO detector detects a rate of increase in CO concentration which exceeds a first preselected CO rate for a third pre-selected time period and the smoke detector detects the reduced threshold level of light obscuration or the rate of increase in CO concentration exceeds a second preselected CO rate for a fourth pre-selected time period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Airware, Inc.
    Inventor: Jacob Wong
  • Patent number: 8077048
    Abstract: Systems and methods for a smoke monitor are described. In one aspect, a smoke monitor includes a detector to sense when a user lights a smoking device such as a cigarette, pipe, etc. In one implementation, for example, such detection is made by detecting the audible sound of a lighter, via a smoke detector, and/or so on. In one implementation, the smoke monitor includes a counter that counts the number of smoking devices lit by a user, for example, over a predetermined amount of time. Exceeding a threshold number of smoking devices (e.g., lighting one or more smoking devices) over that period of time may cause the smoke monitor to implement one or more configurable events such as audio alarms, vibrations, etc. In one implementation, and responsive to the smoke monitor detecting smoke, a particle generator coupled to the smoke monitor generates particles to freshen surrounding air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: King Saud University
    Inventor: Fozeyah Saleh Almiman
  • Patent number: 8077028
    Abstract: An emergency alert system with the capability of providing audible alerts upon the detection of a possible emergency condition or a malfunctioning system component is provided. An audible alert may include voice phrases that are selected and output based, at least in part, on information associated with the possible emergency condition or malfunctioning system component. The noise in an area may be received and the volume of the outputted voice phrase may be changed based, at least in part, on the noise in the area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: ABL IP Holding LLC
    Inventors: John Evan Lane, Victor Eugene Sanhdage
  • Publication number: 20110298623
    Abstract: A method and device for early detection of fires is based on the detection of volatile thermolysis products which are characteristic of the material to be monitored, ambient air being aspirated from an area to be monitored with respect to fire and being ionized, the ionized gas flow being channeled through an electromagnetic field, the resulting field strength of which modifying the trajectories of the ions in their temporal and spatial dependence with a parameter set in such a manner that positive and/or negative ions of the ionized gas are forced onto pre-determined trajectories and are detected for generating a fire alarm. Accordingly, fires can be detected quickly and reliably in the earliest possible phase before their full development so that taking or initiating follow-up actions can occur particularly quickly and at an early stage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2011
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Applicant: MINIMAX GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Kurt Lenkeit, Achim Schumann
  • Patent number: 8068034
    Abstract: A safety sensor device for an appliance detects burning conditions and shuts off power to the appliance. The device includes a sensor unit positioned near an exhaust of the appliance, and a relay unit connected along a power supply path to the appliance. The relay and sensor units are linked. The sensor unit includes a sensor for monitoring exhaust air from the appliance. The relay unit includes a circuit that electrically connects the appliance with a power source while in an ON state and electrically disconnects the appliance from the power source while in an OFF state, the circuit being responsive to the sensor unit to transition from the ON state to the OFF state if the sensor detects burning conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: Pioneering Technology Corp.
    Inventors: Reza Shah, Peter M. Callahan, legal representative, Eajaz Zaheer, Yee Bing Hoo, Timothy SoeMoe Thu
  • Patent number: 8054189
    Abstract: When a rechargeable battery of a life safety device reaches its end of life, the life safety device provides an audible signal indicating that replacement is required. When the device is disconnected from line power, the rechargeable battery still contains a significant amount of energy. The device automatically begins controlled discharge the battery until the stored energy has been reduced to a safe level for disposal of the life safety device and its battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Assignee: Walter Kidde Portable Equipment Inc.
    Inventors: Travis Silver, Stan Burnette, Matthew J. Buchholz
  • Patent number: 8035527
    Abstract: A fire detection system for monitoring a volume containing fluid, typically air, for the presence of smoke particles is disclosed. A conduit for receiving the fluid, and any smoke particles therein, and directing the fluid to a smoke detector has a plurality of inlets formed therein. A respective temperature sensor is associated with each of the inlets which generate a signal indicative of a change in temperature in the region of the inlet. In the embodiments, the temperature sensor comprises one or more fiber Bragg gratings. The fiber Bragg gratings preferably have different grating periods. The reflected light from each fiber Bragg grating is returned back down the fiber optic cable and redirected via a 2×1 coupler to a wavelength detection system and a personal computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Kidde IP Holdings Limited
    Inventor: Brian David Powell
  • Patent number: 8021469
    Abstract: A control system and associated methods for an air treatment system. In one aspect, the present invention provides a control system and method for controlling blower speed as a function of separately determined smoke and dust concentrations. In one embodiment, the control system and method provides a variable delayed between changes in motor speed to address undesirable rapid changes between speeds. In another aspect, the present invention provides a system and method for calibrating a sensor to provide more uniform operation over time. In yet another aspect, the present invention provide a system and method for calibrating motor speed to provide more consistent and uniform motor speed over time. The present invention also provides a system and method for tracking filter life by as a function of time, motor speed and/or a sensed variable, such as particulate concentration in the environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Access Business Group International LLC
    Inventors: Thomas A. Niezgoda, Thomas J. Leppien, Gregory K. Evans
  • Patent number: 8013751
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a fire alarm 1 that includes a base 1.5 and a fire alarm insert which can be connected to base 1.5. A covering cap 3 and a sheet 2, 2.1 located between the covering cap 3 and the fire alarm insert 1.1 are provided to cover fire alarm insert 1.1.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Bernd Siber, Andreas Hensel, Stefan Sittenauer, Ulrich Oppelt
  • Publication number: 20110210843
    Abstract: The sensor network may include a location capture processing unit; and a plurality of sensors in communication with the location capture processing unit. Each sensor of the plurality of sensors includes a controller and a RF receiver configured to receive RF signals. The RF receiver is in communication with the controller. A localization engine is configured to receive beacon signals transmitted by other sensors in the sensor network. The localization engine is in communication with the controller. The controller of each of the plurality of sensors is further configured to determine a position of its respective sensor using either RF receiver or localization engine or both. The plurality of sensors communicates their position to the location capture processing unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2010
    Publication date: September 1, 2011
    Applicant: ANDREW LLC
    Inventor: Thomas Kummetz
  • Patent number: 8004416
    Abstract: A smoke alarm system having a base and a body. The base is mounted onto and electrically connected to an unswitched electrical box. The body contains conventional smoke alarm circuitry. The base contains a threaded female socket similar to a standard light bulb socket. The body contains a corresponding male threaded connector similar to that on a standard light bulb. The body is thus able to be electrically connected to as well as physically mounted to the base by simply screwing the male threaded connector into the female threaded socket in the same manner as a light bulb is screwed into a light socket. The base is installed on the ceiling with its wires extending into the unswitched electrical box. A metal ring on the bottom shoulder of the base is connected to the smoke alarm interconnect system. On top of the body are two metal spring-loaded tabs which are connected within the smoke alarm to its interconnect system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Inventors: Arch C. Bradley, Jr., Cindy A. Bradley
  • Patent number: 7999666
    Abstract: An emergency lighting unit includes a lamp, a backup battery, controller, and a network interface. The controller connects the backup battery to the lamp upon detection of an emergency condition and loss of main power. The network interface interfaces with and receives commands from a fire alarm control panel via a fire alarm network. Each emergency lighting unit may have a unique identifier with respect to the fire alarm network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: SimplexGrinnell LP
    Inventors: Mark B. Barrieau, Johnpaul P. Barrieau, Jeffrey R. Brooks
  • Publication number: 20110193712
    Abstract: To enable an air velocity of sampling air to be precisely measured, a smoke detector (S) includes: a smoke detection part (22) connected to a sampling pipe (11); a fan (12) that sucks sampling air (SA) into the sampling pipe; and an air velocity sensor (15) that measures an air velocity of the sampling air within the sampling pipe. The air velocity sensor (15) is disposed at a primary side of the fan (12), and a straightening vane (25) is disposed between the air velocity sensor (15) and a suction port (12a) of the fan (12).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2011
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Inventor: Hiroyuki YOKOTA
  • Patent number: 7994928
    Abstract: Improvements in a smoke alarm are presented. The multifunction smoke alarm unit includes separate sensors within a single enclosure for detecting smoke and occupancy, sounding a distinctive audible alarm when combustion is detected or the presence of a person within the area of the sensor. The multifunction smoke alarm can replace an existing single function smoke alarm. Multiple multifunction smoke alarms are networkable together for various purposes. Additional features include intruder alarm, visitor annunciator, integrated illumination source, external lighting control, HVAC system control, ceiling fan control, ventilation control, and/or fire safety system control. The proposed multifunction smoke alarm provides much-needed improvements for security, energy saving, safety, and user convenience without the need for completely separate systems for each purpose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Inventor: Robert Charles Richmond
  • Publication number: 20110187543
    Abstract: A home safety 911 system which comprises a battery disposed in an enclosure that supplies power to a smoke sensor, a carbon monoxide sensor and a gas leak sensor. An audible alarm module, a visual alarm module and an escape route module are all disposed in the enclosure and can be activated by any one of the sensors. A “FIRE 911” visual alarm display is mounted on at least one window in a house and is remotely activated by the visual alarm module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2011
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Inventors: Linda Russo, Vincenzo Tedesco
  • Publication number: 20110187541
    Abstract: Provided is an audible alarm device including a piezoelectric buzzer, which is capable of suppressing wasted current consumption not contributing to increased sound pressure of the piezoelectric buzzer. The audible alarm device includes: a piezoelectric buzzer; a coil connected in parallel to the piezoelectric buzzer; a current limiting means for adjusting a current supply period for the piezoelectric buzzer and the coil, and limiting a current to the coil during current supply; and a control circuit for controlling on/off time of the current limiting means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2011
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Inventor: Takahiro Noguchi
  • Publication number: 20110187542
    Abstract: A notification system including an electrical switch wherein the switch includes a radio frequency receiver circuit coupled to a power supply and the RF receiver circuit, in response to an alarm signal, engages an output relay to close at least one electrical contact in the switch. A notification method comprising: a smoke detector emitting an RF alarm signal; an RF receiver circuit in an electrical switch receiving the signal; the RF receiver engaging an output relay; and the output relay closes at least one electrical contract in the switch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2011
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Inventors: William J. DITTMER, Allan DITTMER
  • Patent number: 7982628
    Abstract: A verbal language based output system includes data defining a geometrical region, such as a building, configuration data relative to various detectors in the region, and a plurality of event inputs associated with the detectors. Verbal language generation software, in response to the data and the event inputs, produces verbal descriptions of developing events. Such verbal descriptions can be audibly output for use by personnel needing to enter the region to address the events.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas A. Plocher, Henry Chen
  • Patent number: 7973669
    Abstract: A sensor assembly includes a sensor configured to detect at least one material or condition, such as a smoke detector, fire detector, or carbon monoxide detector. The sensor assembly also includes a base configured to be mounted on a structure, such as a wall or ceiling, and to receive the sensor. The sensor assembly further includes a wireless module located between the sensor and the base. The wireless module is configured to transmit position information. The wireless module may include one or more electrical contacts used to form at least one electrical connection between the base of the sensor assembly and the sensor. The wireless module may also include a printed circuit board having the contacts, wireless radio circuitry, an antenna, and other components. The printed circuit board could be substantially hidden from view when the sensor is attached to the base and the base is mounted on the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Hai D. Pham, Steve D. Huseth, Andrew G. Berezowski, Thomas J. Schubring, Edward J. Dauskurdas, Dan Hawkinson, Kalvin Watson, Edward J. Kurtz, David J. Wunderlin
  • Patent number: 7969296
    Abstract: A method and system are provided, which provides reliable fire detection. In one implementation, the automated system includes a combination of sensors configured to measure various factors associated with a hazard, such as a fire or gas leakage, and generate sensor readings. Factors measured can include smoke, carbon monoxide and heat. The system further includes a detection device that is configured to determine whether a hazard or fire exists by performing a fuzzy analysis of sensor readings. The fuzzy analysis includes categorizing respective sensor readings into fuzzy sets, and determining whether the hazard exists based on a combination of the categorizations. In addition the size and direction of a fire can be determined from multiple sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Williams-Pyro, Inc.
    Inventor: Andrew W. Stell
  • Patent number: 7969321
    Abstract: A smoke detector adapted for installation within a bracket of a ceiling downlight; the smoke detector comprising a lower body portion adapted for engagement with said bracket, and an upper body portion extending upwardly from said lower portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Inventor: John Spellman
  • Patent number: 7963343
    Abstract: A Christmas tree fire prevention device preferably includes an air-pressurized reservoir containing fire-retardant agent and a mechanism for automatically discharging the fire-retardant agent. The discharging mechanism may be connected to the reservoir via a flexible hose may also be removably attached to the apex of an existing Christmas tree and camouflaged as a holiday decoration. A mechanism for automatically emitting an alarm signal when the automatic fire-retardant agent discharging mechanism is activated may further be included. The discharging mechanism may include a valve with a metal-alloy plug which has a relatively low melting point. Flame heated air preferably causes the plug to melt and activates the discharging mechanism, which ejects the plug from the valve. The pressurized fire-retardant may then egress through the valve, deflect off a guard located on top of the discharging mechanism, and cover the Christmas tree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Inventor: James Hopkins
  • Patent number: 7965178
    Abstract: The present invention provides an intelligent, integrated facility and fireground management system which is efficient, assures first responder, pedestrian and appliance safety, as well as precise performance in extreme emergency situations, regulatory compliance, easy and flexible integration with building systems and add-on components, as well as advanced internal component monitoring and event logging. The present invention additionally provides systems and method for real-time first responder situational awareness and real-time fireground situational awareness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Inventors: Bruce E. Schmuttor, David B. McCauley
  • Patent number: 7956764
    Abstract: An ambient condition detector outputs an alarm comprising a tonal pattern comprising at least two distinctly different pitch tones in one embodiment of the invention. Another embodiment comprises a detector whereby a user can select a pitch tone to be output within a tonal pattern alarm when the detector senses an ambient condition. Options include verbal output to indicate the type of ambient condition sensed and/or the location of the detector sensing the ambient condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Inventor: Gary Jay Morris
  • Patent number: 7952486
    Abstract: A liquid crystal display device with a substrate and a gas detector. The substrate has a pixel array area and an electrical connection area. The pixel array area has a plurality of pixels. The electrical connection area has a plurality of bond pads positioned on the surface of the substrate to address the plurality of pixels in the pixel array area. The gas detector is positioned within the electrical connection area. The gas detector is arranged to detect the presence of a specified gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: Chimei Innolux Corporation
    Inventor: Pavel Novoselov
  • Patent number: 7948627
    Abstract: A photoelectric smoke detector may detect presence of smoke by utilizing a light emitting element and a light receiving element whose optical axes intersect with each other. The photoelectric smoke detector may include a casing for storing the light emitting element and the light receiving element. Inlet and outlet ports may be respectively provided in one and the other sides of the casing, the inlet and outlet ports bringing air flow into the casing. Rectifying light blocking means may be provided contiguously with each of the inlet and outlet ports, the rectifying light blocking means preventing entry of disturbance light into an interior space and forming a flow line of smoke extending from one or the other inlet and outlet port to the other or the one inlet and outlet port such that the flow line passes through a detection area by the light emitting element and the light receiving element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: Fenwal Controls of Japan, Ltd.
    Inventors: Masao Iguchi, Kanji Numao
  • Patent number: 7948389
    Abstract: An electronic device, for example a smoke alarm, that includes a battery carrier that includes a push to open and push to close apparatus for opening and closing the carrier. In one embodiment, the carrier is mounted so as to be pivotable between a closed position and an open position. Pivoting movement of the carrier is controlled by a double acting latch mechanism that includes at least one heart-shaped cam groove and at least one cam follower engaging with the cam groove. The carrier is a simple to access and operate to facilitate replacement of the battery. A lockout mechanism can also be provided to prevent closure of the carrier without a battery installed. In addition, a tamper resist mechanism can be provided to prevent the carrier from being opened when the carrier is at the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: Walter Kidde Portable Equipment, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason M. Sharpe, Larry R. Ratzlaff, Joseph G. DeLuca
  • Patent number: 7940190
    Abstract: A self-monitoring smoke detector comprising a housing (11) defining an internal chamber (12). An optical transmitter (13) is mounted within the housing (11) so as to direct light into the optical chamber (12). An optical receiver (14) is mounted in the housing (11) and in optical communication with the optical chamber (12). The optical transmitter (13) and the optical receiver (14) are so positioned that light from the transmitter cannot directly reach the receiver. Monitoring means is provided, comprising first and second light-scattering means (13a and 14a) positioned respectively in alignment with the transmitter (13) and the receiver (14). The arrangement is such that, in the absence of reflector particles in the optical chamber, light from the transmitter (13) can reach the receiver (14) only after scattering at the first light-scattering means (13a) and then after scattering at the second light-scattering means (14a).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Assignee: Thorn Security Limited
    Inventor: Stephen John Penney
  • Publication number: 20110095895
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a safety apparatus for providing a visible signal to firefighters or other rescuers of occupants of a building that an occupant is in a particular location or room of the building. According to one embodiment of the invention, the safety apparatus may include an emergency detector, such as a smoke alarm or carbon monoxide alarm or the like responsive to an emergency condition, including a visible signaling device, and a detector responsive to the presence of an occupant for providing a signal to the visible signaling device when the safety device is activated by the emergency condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2009
    Publication date: April 28, 2011
    Inventors: Gregory Chero, Brian Bolinger
  • Publication number: 20110094184
    Abstract: A method of displaying smoke propagation in a region minimizes distractions due to building structural elements so that a user can focus on the smoke flow. An associated apparatus includes a plurality of smoke detectors and a display device which respond to smoke in the building. The apparatus generates the displays indicating the path of propagation of the developing smoke between floors. The display device can be wirelessly coupled to the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2009
    Publication date: April 28, 2011
    Applicant: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Ji Gu, Yusi Liu, Thomas A. Plocher
  • Patent number: 7928854
    Abstract: Techniques for smoke detection are provided. In one aspect, an exemplary smoke detection device is provided. The smoke detection device comprises an infrared beam transmitting unit; an infrared beam receiving unit; and a control module associated with the infrared beam transmitting unit and the infrared beam receiving unit. The infrared beam transmitting unit and the infrared beam receiving unit are configured to communicate with each other, via an infrared beam, and with the control module, via a signal produced in response to smoke being present at a level that is greater than a threshold smoke level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Inventor: Gary Martino
  • Patent number: 7928853
    Abstract: An alarm unit, for sounding an alarm on detection of a fire emergency condition, which comprises a smoke detector, an alarm indicator and a heat detector wherein the smoke detector is capable of receiving power from a first power source and the heat detector is capable of receiving power from a second power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Inventor: Peter Frost-Gaskin
  • Publication number: 20110084844
    Abstract: A sensor device for the detection of smoke and carbon monoxide. Smoke and carbon monoxide detecting elements are placed within a housing which also contains a rechargeable power source for powering the detector elements The housing is provided with a first interface to engage a lighting fixture and a second interface for engaging a light source. Upon applying electric current to the lighting fixture, power is applied to the sensor device for charging the rechargeable power source and for illuminating the light source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2009
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Inventor: Richard E. Carnation
  • Publication number: 20110074590
    Abstract: A smoke detector system comprising of a localized, radio frequency, wireless Remote Control incorporated within a small magnet, such as those produced for use in kitchens, and a portable, particulate matter and/or heat sensing, smoke detector. Smoke detector is designed to emit an audible and/or lighted alarm upon activation. System is designed whereby the localized remote control is capable of muting the smoke detector alarm for a pre-set period of time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventors: Eric Sacknoff, Theodora Sacknoff
  • Publication number: 20110063101
    Abstract: A safety alarm system and method are provided. The alarm system includes a gas detector and a possible fire detector. A controller is provided to process signals from the detectors and provide signals to a vent controller so that if a detected gas level is too high, the vent controller will open a vent. Further, the vent will be prevented from opening if a fire is detected. Alarms may be activated if the detected gas level is too high and if a possible fire is detected. The alarm system can be coupled to a generator set to effect engine shutdown if the detected gas level is too high.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2010
    Publication date: March 17, 2011
    Inventor: Michael Cristoforo
  • Publication number: 20110057806
    Abstract: A hazardous condition detector including a housing containing at least one sensor unit for sensing at least one ambient condition and a microprocessor contained within the housing operatively coupled to the sensor unit though a hardware interface. The hazardous condition detector also includes a memory means associated with the microprocessor, the memory means contains at least one alarm threshold value stored therein from which the microprocessor selects a single alarm threshold value, and user activated hardware control means operatively coupled to the microprocessor. The control means when activated by a user during an alarm condition reduces the sensitivity of the hazardous condition detector by changing the voltage across the sensor unit sensed by the microprocessor to a level that is within the range of a non alarm event defined by the single alarm threshold value selected by the microprocessor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: UNIVERSAL SECURITY INSTRUMENTS, INC
    Inventor: Eric V. Gonzales
  • Publication number: 20110057805
    Abstract: A smoke alarm is described which comprises a base element (105) with a flat mounting surface, a light transmitter (111) that is attached to the mounting surface and that is configured to issue an illuminating light (111a), and a light receiver (112) that is attached to the mounting surface next to the light transmitter (111) and that is configured to receive a measurement light (112a) which results from a back-scattering of the illumination light (111a) at a measurement object located in a detection space (115). The smoke alarm further comprises a data processing device (135) that is coupled to an output of the light receiver (112) and that is configured to evaluate temporal changes of an output signal issued by the light receiver (112). Also, a method for checking the functional capability of the described smoke alarm (100) is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2009
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Applicant: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Markus Loepfe, Kurt Mueller, Georges A. Tenchio, Walter Vollenweider