Abstract: An air monitoring apparatus includes, in an exemplary embodiment, a housing having at least one fluid passage to permit a fluid to enter the housing, and a constituent detection device positioned in the housing. The detection device includes at least one electrode, a power supply electrically coupled to the at least on electrode, and a logic circuit electrically coupled to the power supply. The logic circuit is configured to detect a change in at least one of impedance magnitude and a phase shift angle magnitude over a range of frequencies when the detection device contacts at least one fluid constituent contained in the fluid flowing into the cartridge through the at least one fluid passage, or when the detection device contacts at least one constituent in a solid whose chemical and/or material properties change as a function of fluid flowing into the housing through the at least one fluid passage.

Abstract: A real time alarm classification system and method of use and, more particularly, to a residual gas analyzer configured to identify specific root causes of an abnormal condition such as, for example, contamination, undesirable process variability and equipment malfunction in wafer processing. The real-time alarm classification system comprises a computer infrastructure operable to: generate top contributors associated with an alarm triggered by sensed abnormal conditions; compare the top contributors to contributors of historic RGA (residual gas analyzer) alarms of known root causes that were generated by a validated model; and provide a probable root cause of the sensed abnormal conditions when a match is found between the top contributors and the contributors associated with the historic RGA alarms of known root causes. A method and computer readable medium is also contemplated to provide the processes.

Abstract: A line-powered module that is selectively operable in one of a plurality of modes of operation based upon the value of a selection signal. The line-powered module includes a control unit that selectively operates the module in one of the plurality of modes of operation based upon the value of a selection signal received by the control unit. The line-powered module includes a selection input that is coupled to the control unit such that the selection signal can be received at the selection input. Preferably, the selection input receives a selection wire that can be moved between different points of connection to define the plurality of states of the selection signal. Based upon the connection of the selection wire, the control unit operates the line-powered module in one of the plurality of modes of operation.

Abstract: A hazardous condition detector is provided. The hazardous condition detector comprises a body, a hazardous condition sensor, and at least one corona discharge apparatus. The body defines a passage therethrough. The passage extends between an inlet and an outlet. The hazardous condition sensor is positioned within the passage. The at least one corona discharge apparatus is positioned within the passage to draw a fluid into the passage through the inlet and to expel the fluid through the outlet.

Abstract: A wireless detector and alarm system, such as for example a smoke detector and/or carbon monoxide (CO) detector, operable to be linked and unlinked with one or more like detectors thereby forming a network of detectors. A detector sensing the presence of an environmental condition, which requires the sounding of an alert is operable to transmit a signal to other remotely linked detectors, thereby triggering the remotely linked detectors to sound an appropriate alarm. The detector at the location of the environmental condition causing the alarm and the remotely linked detector are capable to operate in teach and learn modes such that the address or “house codes” of the detectors can be synchronized.

Abstract: The subject invention relates to a new alarm which is based on using a quarternary tunable Mid-IR laser to measure both particles and gas at the same time. The measurement is done within an area of which the gas of interest will absorb the Mid-IR radiation. By widely tuning the emission wavelength of the laser, several wavelengths can be measured in order to accurately find both gas composition and particle density with one laser based sensor. We tested a new device which use radiation between 2.27 ?m and 2.316 ?m. Methane gas reduces intensity of the radiation at certain wavelengths in this device, while particles/fog reduce intensity for all wavelengths. In this case, fog should not trigger an alarm, while methane leaks should. This can also be applied for CO and smoke in which one sensor will measure both parameters to sound an alarm instead of just one parameter.

Abstract: A wireless-controlled detecting device includes a one-way waterproof-ventilating outer layer installed therein with a signal detector provided with a programmable IC and a sensor module. The programmable IC and the sensor module are connected and fixed in position by a soft PCB that is connected with a thin power supply unit. The wirelessly controlled detecting device is further installed with a wireless transmitter and a wireless receiver for receiving the result of detection, and the wireless signal receiver is connected with a signal-indicating device for indicating the result of detection by means of lamplight, sounds, characters and vibration. The detection data can be stored in a storage device for a user to be controlled and managed.

Abstract: A gas detector and method of operating the gas detector that includes a carbon monoxide sensor and a processor. The carbon monoxide sensor senses an environmental concentration of carbon monoxide and provides the sensed value to the processor. Upon receiving the value of the carbon monoxide level (COppm), the processor determines an alarm threshold level based upon the COppm level. Once the alarm threshold level is determined, the processor calculates the COHb percentage for the current COppm reading based upon a derived, fixed point equation. The processor activates an audible/visual indicator when the sensed COHb percentage exceeds the alarm threshold.

Abstract: A safety system for connection to a toxic gas detector and a toxic gas producing engine, and its operating method, includes an interrupt device coupled to connections to the detector and the engine. The interrupt device includes a toxic gas signal detecting circuit and a circuit for permitting starting of the engine. The detecting circuit activates the permitting circuit if the toxic gas signal represents a toxic gas concentration below a predetermined level. In one embodiment, the permitting circuit is activated if the safety system is healthy and fully functional. Similarly, a safety system for connection to a toxic gas detector and a toxic gas supply, and its operating method, includes an interrupt device coupled to connections to the detector and the toxic gas supply. The interrupt device includes a toxic gas signal detecting circuit and a circuit for permitting of flow from the toxic gas supply.

Abstract: The Carbon Monoxide and Explosive Gas Shut Off System is an invention that will shut off the source of carbon monoxide and explosive gas at the time it is first detected by the carbon monoxide and explosive gas detector. This will save lives.

Abstract: The Carbon Monoxide and Explosive Gas Shut Off System is an invention that will shut off the source of carbon monoxide and explosive gas.

Abstract: Regional physical information can be entered along with automatically sensed ambient condition information into regional monitoring system. Alarm decision processing can be adjusted in accordance therewith.

Abstract: The present invention provides very small low cost apparatus and method for determining the concentration and/or hazard from a target gas by means of optically monitoring one or more sensors that responds to carbon monoxide. The apparatus comprises a photon source optically coupled to the sensor and the photon intensity passing through the sensor is quantified by one or more photodiode(s) in a system, so that the photon flux is a function of at least one sensor's response to the target gas, e.g., transmits light through the sensor to the photodiode. The photocurrent from the photodiode is converted to a sensor reading value proportional to the optical characteristics of the sensors and is loaded into a microprocessor or other logic circuit. In the microprocessor, the sensor readings may be differentiated to determine the rate of change of the sensor readings and the total photons absorbed value may be used to calculated the CO concentration.

Abstract: An adverse condition detector that records historical data concerning the operation of the detector such that the detector can be interrogated by a technician. The microprocessor of the adverse condition detector monitors for alarm conditions and other important information related to the operation of the detector. Upon identifying an important characteristic of the detector operation, the microprocessor time stamps the information and stores the information within memory of the microprocessor. The detector includes an interface pad that is accessible from the exterior of the detector such that a technician can access the interface pad without removing the detector housing.

Abstract: A portable apparatus is provided for detecting the presence in a local atmosphere of gases that are hazardous to the health of humans and animals, the detector providing a warning to the operator of the apparatus of the presence of such gases.

Abstract: A programmable interface module includes a linear power regulator to control and provide power to interfaced components on an as needed basis. The interface module is implemented in, for example, a threat sensor pack and multiplexed to a plurality of sensor modules. In a first mode, the linear voltage regulator provides a relatively small amount of power which allows a sensor module to output a signal responsive to detecting an environmental condition (e.g., gamma or x-ray radiation, extreme temperatures, etc.). The interface module can switch the linear voltage regulator to a second mode in which the linear voltage regulator ramps up the amount of power provided to a detecting sensor module. The sensor module can then provide a threat level indicative of a concentration or intensity of the environmental condition. If the threat level surpasses a predetermined threshold, the senor pack can output a threat signal to security server.

Abstract: A device is described for a safety system on an installation in connection with the operation of a habitat (10) in which an object that is carrying out work which results in heat generation such as flames, sparks and the like, is isolated from the surroundings, and where an overpressure of air is set up in the habitat (10) to prevent ingress of flammable gases, and comprising systems for supply of electricity and overpressure air to the equipment inside the habitat, and also an alarm system which can warn of irregularities and the like.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of processing an analog sensor signal, the analog sensor signal being amplified by an operational amplifier. The amplified analog sensor signal is measured and compared with a threshold value. A DC voltage is generated as a function of a difference between the amplified analog sensor signal and the threshold value and a composite signal is formed from the analog sensor signal and the DC voltage. The composite signal is amplified and an output signal is output.

Abstract: A monitoring system includes one or more monitoring devices, positioned in sewer manholes, storm drains, etc., and a remote monitoring station that communicates wirelessly therewith. The monitoring device may be an integrated unit, including sensors, a two-way telemetry unit, a power supply, a processor, and supporting hardware, all located in an enclosed, waterproof housing. The monitoring device is placed within a manhole cavity to obtain depth (e.g., water level) measurements, images, and other data, and report the measurements back to the remote monitoring station, which analyzes the data and responds to alert messages when a dangerous water level is detected. An additional sensor may monitor the manhole cover for security purposes. A distributed mesh network of wireless nodes may be used to relay communications from the monitoring devices along alternative paths, through bridge nodes that may connect to a public wireless or cellular network.

Abstract: A multi-function replica traffic light device is disclosed. The device includes a plurality of lights of different colors aligned in a direction. The device also includes at least two selected from the group consisting of a motion detector, a timer, an audio detector, a gas detector, a smoke detector, and a visible light detector, each of which is configured to generate a signal. The device further includes a processor configured to turn on and off the plurality of lights in response to the signal.

Abstract: A sensor detects one or more hazardous materials, such as by measuring the concentration of one or more hazardous gasses. The sensor or an external system can also determine a location of the sensor. This location can be associated with the measured data from the sensor at the external system or at the sensor. The location could be determined at the sensor using GPS or RFID. The location could be determined at the external system using RFID. The external system can use the measured data and the location information to perform a wide variety of tasks, such as mapping hazardous materials in a processing or other environment or identifying trends in the concentration of the hazardous materials.

Abstract: This invention relates to providing convenient night and pathway lighting this is integrated into a detector unit. Incorporating the illumination features into the detector unit provides the possibility to simplify the installation, utilize the backup battery power of the detector such that the illumination is provided even in a power outage, and further to allow illumination options that are directly linked to alarm events determined by the detector.

Abstract: Gas monitoring apparatus comprises a sensor module and an associated display module which can be physically connected together or separated. The sensor module contains gas sensors and is used to detect the concentration of gas, for example in a mine working. The sensor module transmits readings wirelessly to the display module, which includes a display to show the reading. Each sensor unit can communicate with multiple display units and vice versa.

Abstract: A medical gas alarm system for use in a healthcare facility having a medical gas system and having a network of computer devices is provided. The alarm system includes at least one area alarm controller adapted to receive a first signal indicative of a condition of a first portion of the medical gas system. The area alarm controller is adapted to communicate with the network. The alarm system also includes at least one master alarm controller adapted to receive a second signal indicative of a condition of a second portion of the medical gas system. The master alarm controller is adapted to communicate with the network. The area alarm controller is adapted to communicate with the master alarm controller through the network.

Abstract: An alarm system (100) to wake sleeping occupants in the event of an emergency has a receiver (105) for detecting a warning signal (130) emitted from an external device (125), such as a smoke or carbon monoxide detector. A processor (11) compares the received warning signal to a predetermined signal and, if they correspond, then a transmitter (115) transmits an alarm (135). The predetermined signal can be preprogrammed or it can be learned by alarm system. The alarm is at least one of an audible, visual, vibratory, and/or olfactory communication. A customized audible communication in a voice familiar to the occupants can be recorded and stored in the alarm system. In addition, the system may provide different alarms before and after motion is detected.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, a detection system may include at least one sensor located in an enclosable space, each sensor being configured to detect at least one environmental feature and provide a corresponding at least one environmental feature signal; means for processing the at least one environmental feature signal and providing at least one processed feature signal, the at least one processed feature signal corresponding to a transformed at least one environmental feature signal; a hosted function configured to provide instructions to the processing means, the hosted function comprising a computational algorithm adapted to perform numerical transformation operations based on the at least one environmental feature signal, the hosted function being configured to provide a map image based on the at least one processed feature signal; and a means for displaying the map image.

Abstract: A generator monitoring system and method includes a plurality of sensors (12) disposed within a generator enclosure (18) to sense health conditions of a generator (10) housed within the enclosure. The sensors are interconnected to provide a single communication path (14) for allowing communication with the plurality of sensors. A monitoring device (16) outside the generator enclosure receives health condition information from each of the plurality of sensors via the single communication path. A sensor may be disposed within the generator enclosure to detect particulates emitted from a monitored portion (e.g., 52) of the generator housed within the enclosure. A sensor may be disposed proximate a bus bar connection (130) of the generator to sense a health condition of the bus bar connection and generate corresponding health condition information provided to the monitoring device.

Abstract: A fire alarm for an installation via a housing that is flush with the ceiling, having at least one light source arranged in the housing and at least one light receiver arranged in the housing, as well as a shutter disk, which seals the housing. To prevent the spreading of stray light between the light source and the light receiver via the shutter disk, a shield, for example, is provided in the shutter disk to suppress or absorb stray light.

Abstract: A detector with voice output is described. In various embodiments, the detector comprises a detection circuit that detects a substance, a recording circuit that records a sound in a memory, and a playback circuit that retrieves the recorded sound from memory and emits the recorded sound via a speaker when the detection circuit detects the substance. The recorded sound can be a human voice.

Abstract: An arrangement for use in an occupancy-based ventilation system includes a plurality of CO2 sensors and a processing circuit. The plurality of CO2 sensors are disbursed throughout a plurality of spaces in a building. The processing circuit is operably coupled to receive information representative of CO2 measurements generated by the plurality of CO2 sensors. The processing circuit is operable to determine a value corresponding to occupancy, based on information from the CO2 sensors, and to control the flow of fresh supply air into the building ventilation system based on the determined value.

Abstract: A communication apparatus is provided. The communication apparatus includes a control module, a communication module, and an alcohol-vapor-concentration sensor. The communication is electrically connected with the control module. The alcohol-vapor-concentration sensor is electrically connected with the control module to detect and deliver an alcohol vapor concentration value to the control module. Therefore, it is convenient for users to perform an alcohol vapor concentration detection.

Abstract: In a hydrogen gas station where a great number of sensors are installed, in case hydrogen leakage occurs, sensors in the vicinity of the leakage location start to transmit a warning to an access point all at once. This causes channel capacity saturation and failure to transmit a warning to the access point. Nodes and the access point are connected to each other by an uplink channel and a downlink channel. The access point detects congested/uncongested status of the uplink channel by using a wireless transmitter module and notifies the nodes of the congested/uncongested status of the channel by means for transmitting onto the downlink channel. Meanwhile, each node controls its transmission operation, according to the hydrogen concentration level detected by its hydrogen sensor and the uplink channel congested/uncongested status notified from the access point. In this way, channel overflow due to access congestion in case of hydrogen leakage can be prevented.

Abstract: A first gas sensing element is provided in a first position to measure a concentration of a gas continuously, and a second sensing element is provided in a second position to measure the concentration of the gas intermittently. The second position is in close proximity to the first position. A deterioration determination unit is connected with the first and second sensing elements to make a determination as to whether the first sensing element becomes deteriorated, by comparing output values from the first and second sensing elements. A power controller is configured to supply the second sensing element with electric power throughout waiting periods during which the second sensing element stops measuring the concentration of the gas, and an amount of the electric power supplied throughout waiting periods is smaller than that supplied throughout operating periods during which the second sensing element continuously measures the concentration of the gas.

Abstract: A backdraft detector incorporates at least one oxygen sensor in combination with a flow sensor. Both sensors are coupled to control circuitry which evaluates sensed oxygen levels of a flowing sample being monitored by the flow sensor.

Abstract: A gas-measuring system is provided that is suitable for both mobile and stationary use. A mobile measuring device (2) with sensors (4, 5, 6, 7) for detecting gas concentrations and a base station (3) are provided for this purpose. The mobile measuring device (2) is inserted into a holder (31) of the base station (3) and the operating functions to the measuring device (2) are now switched over to the base station (3).

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a ventilation control device having a portable housing capable of being selectively positioned in various locations in a space such as a room, vehicle compartment or any other area where people or animals may be located. The ventilation control device has a gas detection portion within the portable housing capable of sensing the presence of a specified gas or gasses. A transmitter is also located within the portable housing and operably engaged to the gas detection portion for transmitting a ventilation signal. A power source is located within said portable housing for energizing said transmitter. The power source can be an independent power source such as a battery or a connector such as plug for connecting to power outside of the portable housing or both. A connection portion is located on the portable housing for removably connecting the portable housing at a user specified location.

Abstract: A totally integrated ventilation system is contained in the outside air inlet stream. The system samples and controls ventilation airflow as it enters a structure. An air valve connecting the outside air inlet stream to the return plenum is controlled by a valve positioning device and a processor that monitors sensors located in the outside air inlet stream, air quality data provided by a telecommunications link and the HVAC system control signals. The air quality data includes locally broadcast air pollution data or air quality alert data related to accidents or terrorist attacks. The processor and valve positioning device simultaneously control a separate pressure relief valve that allows contaminated air to be exhausted from the structure. An alternate configuration uses a supplemental fan to introduce the outside air inlet stream directly into the structure where HVAC systems are not used.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device and method for automatically reporting and determining the geographic location of potential carbon monoxide emergencies utilizing wireless E-911 location systems. The combination carbon monoxide and wireless E-911 location alarm in its main device embodiment comprises a self-contained carbon monoxide alarm interfaced with a cellular transceiver, which operates in existing wireless E-911 location systems. The cellular transceiver is a cellular processor with integrated memory for storing emergency identification data for automated carbon monoxide emergency incident reporting to 911 public safety answering point operators.

Abstract: An ambient condition detector includes a time delay function whereby a user initiates a functionality test of the detector and has time to move away from the vicinity of the detector before a potentially hearing damaging, audible report is issued from the detector under test. Multiple ways to set the time delay interval are included in the various embodiments. The sensors of the ambient condition detector may include fire sensors, smoke sensors, gas sensors, motion sensors, vibration sensors and multiple combinations of these sensors.

Abstract: A carbon monoxide detector and method for installing a carbon monoxide detector. The carbon monoxide detector is capable of being hardwired into an installed wall electrical outlet box without reduction of the number of available electrical receptacles.

Abstract: A hazardous gases and wind direction sensor includes a housing having a hazardous gas sensor. The gas sensor sends an output signal to a transmitter at a predetermined frequency upon detecting a hazardous gas. Wind detection is provided by eight LEDs aligned with eight corresponding photocells disposed in the housing, where each photocell represents a topographical direction and is adapted to provide an output signal associated with a particular wind direction at a predetermined frequency. A disk is coupled to a rotatable shaft in the housing and positioned between the LEDs and photocells. The shaft is coupled to a wind direction indicator such as a windsock. The disk has a slot sized to allow light to pass from one of the LEDs to its corresponding photocell, which sends an output signal to enable a switching circuit in the transmitter. The switching circuit enables the output signal at a predetermined frequency to be transmitted to a receiver.

Abstract: A smoke detector system having a base unit and multiple satellite units is provided. The base unit detects various hazards, i.e., smoke or carbon monoxide, and broadcasts a radio frequency signal to activate warning devices on the various satellite units. The satellite units include a radio frequency receiver to receive the signal broadcasted by the base unit. The warning devices include a laser cannon, a speaker, a strobe light, and a wireless camera separately or in combination with other warning devices. Alternatively, each base unit may include one or more of the warning devices and a radio frequency receiver, and each satellite unit may include the detection devices and a radio frequency transmitter. In this way, each device in the system may activate warning devices in each other device in the system when a hazard is detected.

Abstract: A multi-function relay module for use with a series of hazardous condition detectors that are interconnected by an interconnect line. The relay module is positioned between the interconnected hazardous condition detectors and one or more auxiliary devices such that the relay module can selectively activate each of the auxiliary devices. The relay module receives the interconnect signal and determines whether the interconnect signal is indicating a first sensed condition or a second sensed condition. A selection signal having multiple states is received by the control unit. The control unit is programmed to respond to the type of sensed condition indicated by the interconnect signal based upon the state of the selection signal. Thus, the relay module can selectively respond to either the first sensed condition, the second sensed condition or either of the first or second sensed conditions.

Abstract: A gas sensor system includes a gas sensor capable of producing an output signal responsive to the concentration of a specific gas component in measurement gas, a gas concentration determination device that makes electrical connections to the gas sensor and determines the concentration of the specific gas component according to the output signal of the gas sensor, a failure detection device that detects a potential failure in any one of the electrical connections, a sensor temperature determination device that judges whether the gas sensor has been cooled to a predetermined temperature or lower with reference to a sensor temperature parameter and a failure identification device that, when the gas sensor has been cooled to the predetermined temperature or lower, outputs a diagnosis signal to the gas sensor, measures potentials of the electrical connections under the diagnosis signal and identifies in which of the electrical connections the potential failure is occurring based on the measured potentials.

Abstract: A side turn signal light that flashes during operation is disposed on a vehicle body side surface of a vehicle. Further, a camera that images a vehicle side zone that includes the side turn signal light in a section thereof, and a near-infrared LED for night-time illumination are respectively housed in a door mirror. A coating that allows visible light component to pass through while reducing near-infrared component is applied to a lamp bulb of the side turn signal light. Alternatively, a film that allows visible light component to pass through while reducing near-infared component is applied to a lens of the side turn signal light.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a refrigerator for storing foods at a low temperature. An avatar refrigerator and a method for sensing contamination of the same receive measurement values from various sensors installed around the refrigerator in a contamination sensing mode, decide kinds and degrees of contamination in each position by analyzing the measurement values of the sensors by a control means, decide contamination solving methods, and display the kinds and degrees of contamination in each position and the contamination solving methods through a display means formed at the refrigerator door side with avatars. As a result, the avatar refrigerator and the method for sensing contamination of the same maintain the clean air environment and improve health by notifying the air contamination in the peripheral regions of the refrigerator installed at the center of the residential space and the contamination solving methods as well as freshly maintain the foods by storing the foods at a low temperature.

Abstract: An information transmission system comprising a conductor operable to carry a desired information signal. A first tube substantially surrounds the conductor and a second tube substantially surrounds the first tube to define a substantially fluid-tight chamber therebetween. In another aspect, the invention provides an information transmission system suited to transmit information between a first electronic device and a second electronic device located a distance from the first electronic device. The system includes an information transmission line that connects to the first electronic device and the second electronic device. A conduit surrounds at least a portion of the information transmission line. The conduit defines a substantially fluid-tight chamber. A quantity of fluid is disposed within the chamber and a sensor is positioned to measure a parameter of the quantity of fluid. An indicator is operable to signal a breach condition in response to the measured parameter.

Abstract: A cooling medium compressor arrangement is comprised of a compressor, a control mechanism electrically connected with the compressor, and a gas sensor, and the safety of the arrangement is improved by arranging the control mechanism and the gas sensor in a common housing.

Abstract: Homeland Intelligence Systems Technology “H-LIST” comprises nano-sensors embedded in a silicon substrate and etched/fused in a micro-fibered material to enable an outfit for monitoring suspicious terrorist activities and for track biological and chemical gases, and explosives, including stationary and portable weapons of mass destruction such as those that are likely carried on the body of a terrorist or suicide bomber, or that are likely planted in a parked vehicle or carried inside a moving vehicle. H-LIST includes a wired outfit comprising at least a jacket that is worn by an officer, a security officer, a bus driver, hostesses, Doctors and the like, for sensing deadly gases and explosives in a defined area.

Abstract: A person-carried hydrogen sulfide instrument is adapted for use with a conventional SCADA system or other type of fault monitoring system normally intended for monitoring well-related conditions at a well site. In response to detecting an abnormally high concentration of hydrogen sulfide gas, the instrument triggers the fault monitoring system to record an H2S fault and convey that information to a remote computer. In some embodiments, the instrument includes a signal relay unit that listens to a conventional H2S monitor. The signal relay unit has a learning mode that teaches the unit to recognize an audible alarm from the H2S monitor. In response to bearing the H2S alarm, the signal relay unit emits a trigger signal to the fault monitoring system.