Configured To Promote Sensing Capability (e.g., Smoke Detector) Patents (Class 340/693.6)
  • Patent number: 7098789
    Abstract: A device for detecting a prohibited object in a zone with protected access includes a supporting base designed to receive a single foot wearing a shoe of an individual to be inspected. The device further includes a detector to detect a target material and a position-identifier suitable for imposing accurate positioning of the foot of the individual being inspected relative to the detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Inventor: Alessandro Manneschi
  • Patent number: 7061392
    Abstract: An exit path indicating device incorporates at least a first port for receiving an alarm indicating signal. In normal operation upon receipt of the alarm indicating signal, the device outputs a visual or an audible, or both, indicator of the presence of an exit or egress path for use in evacuating the region. A second port disables the operation of the device. The second port can be coupled to a local sensor which provides an indication of a hazardous or alarm condition adjacent to or on the exit or egress path. If the sensor is indicating the presence of a hazardous or alarm condition, the indicating device can be disabled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: Honeywell International, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel C. Hawkinson
  • Patent number: 7038588
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for patient point-of-care data management is provided. Patient point-of-care data is obtained in realtime or in substantially realtime and is made available to subscribers or authorized users on either a local computer display screen, a remote computer display screen, or both. In some embodiments, data associated with a plurality of patients is made available and is viewable simultaneously on a computer display screen. In some embodiments, patient point-of-care data from a plurality of hospitals is available.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Assignee: Draeger Medical Infant Care, Inc.
    Inventors: Otho N. Boone, Nancy St. Clair, John H. Richards, Ian McDermott, Joseph P. Bagnell, Robert J. Strecker
  • Patent number: 7034702
    Abstract: An optical smoke detector for detecting particulates in an air sample. The detector includes a detection chamber defining an enclosure for the air sample. At least one opening is in fluid communication with the detection chamber whereby the air sample can be introduced and discharged from the detection chamber. A cleaning port defines a passageway to the detection chamber from a position external to the smoke detector and a resilient valve seals the cleaning port with a substantially air-tight seal. The valve member is accessible from a position external to the smoke detector. The valve member is openable, permitting passage of air through the cleaning port into the discharge chamber, by engaging the valve member with a nozzle, such as an air nozzle mounted on a canister of pressurized air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Robert M. Thomas, John M. McNamara, Scott T. Castle, Thomas L. Hauder
  • Patent number: 7026943
    Abstract: An acoustic wave sensor utilizes one or more acoustic waves trapped in an acoustic wave cavity to detect the presence of one or more substances on a surface of the acoustic wave cavity. To detect the presence of ice, a trapped torsional acoustic wave is used. To detect water, an acoustic wave with flexural or compressional components is used. The sensor includes a number of transducers adjacent the acoustic wave cavity where a controller drives different sets of the transducers to generate different acoustic waves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Assignee: TexZec, Inc.
    Inventors: Terence J. Knowles, Chris Kalmus
  • Patent number: 7026945
    Abstract: An alarm device interface system comprising a power strip interface, a communication system, and a response system. The power strip interface comprises an electrical connection for powering and/or receiving a component in the system. The communication system comprises or utilizes sensors to detect a condition and may signal the response system to respond to the condition. Selective sending of the signal can be direct from the sensors, via transfer through a control module, or manually activated. The response system receives the selectively sent signal and may utilize one or more response components to perform a variety of functions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Inventor: Bobby D. Hill
  • Patent number: 7011444
    Abstract: A fire sensor comprising a baseplate, a temperature detecting element, and a protective case. The baseplate has an outside surface which serves as a heat sensing surface which is exposed to a hot airflow generated by a fire. The temperature detecting element thermally contacts with the inside surface of the baseplate to detect the temperature of the baseplate. The protective case contacts with the radially outer portion of the inside surface of the baseplate to form a hermetically sealed space between itself and the baseplate. The temperature detecting element is confined within the hermetically sealed space. The baseplate has the temperature detecting element in approximately the central portion of the inside surface thereof and also has a shape and a material which meet the condition that the product of the thickness and heat conductivity of the baseplate is 1.1×10?4 (W/K) or less.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Assignee: Hochiki Corporation
    Inventors: Kari Mayusumi, Yukio Yamauchi, Hiroshi Shima
  • Patent number: 6987459
    Abstract: A portable detector of combustible or explosive gases incorporates a polymeric-type sensor or sensor array coupled to a programmed processor which carries out an evaluation of one or more signals from the sensor or array to evaluate the presence of combustible or explosive vapors. Non-polymeric sensors such as temperature sensors, humidity sensors and/or pressure sensors can also be incorporated and their outputs evaluated to compensate the outputs of the sensor or array of sensors. The detector can be housed in a sealed enclosure and energized by a battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Honeywell International, Inc.
    Inventor: Lee D. Tice
  • Patent number: 6977596
    Abstract: A location system is provided for a fire extinguisher that identifies and locates a fire extinguisher in response to a smoke alarm. The location system is connected to the fire extinguisher to permit a user to quickly locate, find and use the fire extinguisher upon the activation of the smoke alarm. The location system may take the form of a mechanical-electrical system directly connected to the fire extinguisher or may take the form of an alerting system situated very close to the fire extinguisher or connected to the fire extinguisher for transmitting a signal via free space upon the receipt of an activation signal from the smoke alarm system. The purpose of the location system is to identify the location of the fire extinguisher for a user in response to an audio alert being generated by the smoke alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2005
    Inventor: Winfield Joel Brown
  • Patent number: 6965321
    Abstract: A vehicle notification system includes a control panel removably positionable inside a vehicle and including a transceiving mechanism for identifying imminent environmental conditions. The system further includes a plurality of transceivers disposed at predetermined locations exterior of a vehicle housing the control panel. The plurality of transceivers selectively send a plurality of input signals to the transceiving mechanism and for identifying an imminent environmental condition, respectively. The transceiving mechanism includes a display panel housed by the control panel for providing visual information regarding an imminent environmental condition. The transceiving mechanism may further include an input mechanism connected to the control panel for receiving driver-identification information so that one of the plurality of transceivers can identify a driver of a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2005
    Inventor: Abbas Arab
  • Patent number: 6940410
    Abstract: A smoke detection and monitoring arrangement detects surreptitious smoking in various zones in a building, e.g., rest rooms and break rooms, and also detects tampering. Each detection unit has an intake grille leading to a duct which contains an air flow detector, a smoke detector and an optical intrusion or tampering detector. Air flow may be induced by an internal fan, or may result from an optional connection to ventilation ductwork. Air flow, smoke, and tamper signals are fed from each unit to a central control panel, which may include visible indicators and an audible alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Inventor: Dan Deacy
  • Patent number: 6933854
    Abstract: A security bulb assembly for providing a user with a home or building security device that would allow a user to convert an existing motion detector security light into a combination security light and audible alarm. The security bulb assembly includes a main housing having a pair of sockets. A mounting assembly is coupled to the main housing whereby the main housing is adapted to be mounted to a support structure. An audible alarm assembly is coupled to one of the sockets of the main housing. A light coupled to a second one of the sockets of the main housing. A motion sensor is coupled to the main housing. The motion sensor is operationally coupled to each of the sockets for sending an electrical current to each of the sockets thereby activating the audible alarm assembly and illuminating the light upon detection of motion by the motion sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Inventor: Lorenzo Burgess
  • Patent number: 6924730
    Abstract: A fire door control system permits user input during regular use and during alarm conditions. The system utilizes primary and secondary power sources and incorporates a variety of preventive safeguards assuring that functionality of the fire door control system will not be lost. The system utilizes primary power when possible in all alarm conditions. However, during alarm conditions when primary power is lost or when a hand crank hoist remains dangerously engaged, the system is bumplessly connected to a secondary power source and a fire door of the system is closed with the aid of a clutch that directly connects the drive input with an axle that supports the fire door. The clutch pulses on and off to control the descent of the door. The system includes an electronic controller for coordinating the operation of elements of the system and for implementing a method of controlling a fire door system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Inventor: Rob Jason Evans
  • Patent number: 6917296
    Abstract: A fire heat sensor comprising a high-temperature detecting portion provided with a temperature detecting element which exhibits a fast heat response to a rise in ambient temperature, and a low-temperature detecting portion provided with a temperature detecting element which exhibits a slow heat response to a rise in ambient temperature. The fire heat sensor further comprises a resin member by which the high-temperature detecting portion and the low-temperature detecting portion are integrally formed so that heat energy is transferred from the temperature detecting element of the high-temperature detecting portion to the temperature detecting element of the low-temperature detecting portion. In the fire heat sensor, differential heat sensing is performed based on temperatures detected by the low-temperature detecting portion and the high-temperature detecting portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2005
    Assignee: Hochiki Corporation
    Inventors: Kari Mayusumi, Yukio Yamauchi, Hiroshi Shima
  • Patent number: 6909376
    Abstract: A light and sensor assembly (22) for use with a land craft, watercraft or aircraft. The assembly includes a shell (28) for mounting to, or that is a part of the body (24) of, the vehicle. Internal to the enclosed space defined by the shell is a socket and bulb assembly (30, 32) for providing light and heat. Also disposed in the shell is a transducer (36) that emits or receives energy as part of a proximity sensing assembly. The transducer is encased in a transducer housing (38). The transducer housing is positioned relatively close to the bulb so that the heat emitted by the bulb warms the transducer housing. This heat fosters the evaporation of water off the exposed face of the transducer housing so as to minimize the extent to which this water can inhibit the utility of the transducer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Inventor: Mark Rennick
  • Patent number: 6891476
    Abstract: An electronic exposure dose meter and a radiation handling operation management system is capable of realizing real time exposure management. The radiation handling operation management system has monitoring unit receiving an exposure dose amount measured by an electronic exposure dose meter having a radiation detector, its counter circuit and a PHS transmission and reception antenna, from a plurality of transmission and reception base station installed in a radiation handling operation site through bidirectional communication with a central management section via an external management base station, and deriving position of user of the electronic exposure dose meter for collecting and displaying position and exposure dose amount of the user. The electronic exposure dose meter has a radiation detector, a counter circuit, a PHS antenna for bidirectional communication with a central management section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Kitaguchi, Tetsuya Matsui, Naoya Fukutsuka, Kouichi Ushiroda, Naoyuki Kono
  • Patent number: 6891480
    Abstract: A self-aligning sensor assembly that is useful for mounting safety sensors that require precise alignment such as electric eyes and electric garage door opener sensors that include an aligned emitter and detector wherein the self-aligning mechanism allows the sensors to be realigned manually or automatically. This invention is also a method for deactivating a sensor mechanism such as a garage door opener sensor using the self-aligning mechanism of this invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: Lynx Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Gerald H. Williams, Robert Schram
  • Patent number: 6882272
    Abstract: A danger detecting system has a danger detecting control center, at least one detector, at least one conductor connecting the danger detecting control center with the at least one detector, the danger detecting control center producing an output signal depending on a signal of the detector, the danger detecting control center being composed of a plurality of modules, a bus through which the modules are connected, the danger detecting control center and the modules being formed so that the modules are mountable and/or dismountable during an operation of the danger detecting control center.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Anton Pfefferseder, Torsten Meyer-Staufenbiel, Bernd Siber, Andreas Hensel, Ulrich Oppelt
  • Patent number: 6859146
    Abstract: A mounting kit and smoke detecting apparatus releasably mountable to a distant support surface, including a smoke detector weighing W, a support plate securable to the support surface and releasably securable to the smoke detector by a separating force of Y, and a longitudinal member having a proximate end graspable by a user and a distal end releasably securable to the smoke detector. A selectable first connector on the distal end is releasably securable to the smoke detector for mounting the smoke detector to the support plate and a selectable second connector is securable to the smoke detector for detaching the smoke detector from the support plate. The first connector is secured to the smoke detector by a separating force no greater than X and the second connector is secured to the smoke detector by a separating force no less than Z. At least one of X<(Y?W) and X<Y is true, and at least one of Y<Z and (Y?W)<Z is true.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Assignee: SafetyWise LLC
    Inventors: Timothy R. McGreal, Laura L. McGreal, Marilyn L. McGreal
  • Patent number: 6853305
    Abstract: A tape-drive condensation sensor includes a probe with first and second spaced-apart electrodes that define a passage for air flow within a pneumatic conduit. A voltage source is coupled between the electrodes and the voltage of the source and the spacing between the electrodes are adapted to pass a current when a drop of condensation forms between the electrodes. An alarm circuit is activated by the flow of current, the alarm being adapted to signal an event of discernible condensation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Mariel Acosta-Geraldino, Diana Joyce Hellman, Wayne Alan McKinley
  • Patent number: 6819240
    Abstract: To provide an anti-thief security sensor assembly wherein an optical axis of a beam projecting unit can be accurately aligned with that of a beam receiving unit, the anti-thief security sensor assembly includes a beam projecting unit 1 for projecting an infrared beam IR and a beam receiving unit 8 for receiving the infrared beam IR. The beam projecting unit 1 includes a projector cover 21A detachably mounted on a mounting base 20A for enclosing and protecting a sensor circuit on the mounting base 20A, an opening detecting switch 7 for detecting a physical opening of the projector cover 21A, and a projected beam suppressing circuit 4 operable in response to detection by the opening detecting switch 7 to reduce a quantity of the infrared beam emitted from the beam projecting unit 1 to thereby reproduce the infrared beam of a quantity substantially equal to that having passed through the projector cover 21A.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Assignee: Optex Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masashi Iwasawa, Tsuyoshi Hatano, Hiroyuki Ikeda
  • Patent number: 6797959
    Abstract: The sensitivity adjusting equipment applied to a photoelectric smoke detector is provided. The photoelectric smoke detector includes a luminous component for providing an input light and a detecting component for receiving an even output light. The sensitivity adjusting equipment includes a light-scattering device having a scattering component and an adjustable hole for scattering the input light evenly and adjusting an intensity of the input light so as to output the even output light to the detecting component. The sensitivity adjusting equipment also includes a movable platform having a first brace connected to the photoelectric smoke detector and a supporting base having a second brace connected to the light-scattering device. The movable platform is moved to make the photoelectric smoke detector and the light-scattering device combined to adjust the sensitivity of the photoelectric smoke detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: Precision Instrument Development Center, National Science Council
    Inventors: Shenq-Tsong Chang, Ho-Lin Tsay, Tai-Shan Liao, Bih-Chang Wang, Ting-Ming Huang
  • Patent number: 6791453
    Abstract: Presented is a communications protocol for use by interconnected hazardous condition detectors, such as smoke and carbon monoxide detectors for use in dwellings and other structures. This communications protocol provides conventional signaling to indicate the presence of a smoke condition necessitating the generation of a smoke temporal pattern by all interconnected detectors. The protocol further defines a signaling method by which conventional smoke detectors that are incapable of providing temporal patterns other than that required for a smoke alarm condition will not be sent into an alarm mode of operation upon receipt of a signal other than the conventional smoke alarm signal. This communications protocol defines a pulsed signal to indicate a non-smoke alarm condition that is of a duration that will not trigger the conventional smoke alarms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Walter Kidde Portable Equipment, Inc.
    Inventors: John J. Andres, Michael W. Apperson, Joseph G DeLuca, Chris R. Gilbert, Craig Kleinberg, Larry Ratzlaff, Stephen M. Ernst, John Wurtenberger
  • Patent number: 6778091
    Abstract: A smoke detecting chamber for use in a light-scattering type smoke detector is provided which includes a chamber cover that forms one side of the smoke detecting chamber. The chamber cover includes a plurality of first baffles that prevent external light from entering the smoke chamber. The smoke detector further includes a chamber base that forms another side of the smoke detecting chamber, the chamber base including a plurality of second baffles that intermesh with the first baffles when the smoke detecting chamber is formed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2004
    Inventors: James R. Qualey, III, Louis Desmarais, Jayanthi Prasad, Lawrence G. Stanley, Donald D. Brighenti
  • Patent number: 6768424
    Abstract: A system for identifying the location of a fire extinguisher includes a fire detector with a wireless transmitter. When the detector goes into alarm, it not only emits a local audible alarm, it also transmits wirelessly a signal receivable by a fire extinguisher locating unit. This unit includes a receiver and circuitry for detecting the received alarm indicating signal. It also includes audible output circuitry, for example, speech synthesis circuitry, and optionally, an optical indicator. Upon detection at the unit of the alarm indicating signal, the speech synthesizing circuitry can be activated to indicate verbally the location of the extinguisher. Simultaneously, if desired, the illuminatable output device, such as a light bulb or light emitting diode, can be energized to provide a visual indication of extinguisher location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Inventor: Gary J. Morris
  • Patent number: 6762688
    Abstract: A smoke detector monitors one or more internal conditions, such as battery output voltage in detectors that include batteries. Both audible and visible indicators are energized to indicate the presence of the monitored condition or conditions. A switch or a wireless sensor on the detector can be actuated to temporarily suppress the audible indicator provided the battery exhibits an output voltage in a predetermined range, less than that of normal operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2004
    Assignee: BRK Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Derek Scott Johnston, Vincent B. Mori, Edward C. Duran, Kenneth L. Venzant
  • Patent number: 6756906
    Abstract: A self-contained smoke detector system has internal self-diagnostic capabilities and accepts a replacement smoke intake canopy (14) without a need for recalibration. The system includes a microprocessor-based self-diagnostic circuit (200) that periodically checks sensitivity of the optical sensor electronics (24, 28) to smoke obscuration level. By setting tolerance limits on the amount of change in voltage measured in clean air, the system can provide an indication of when it has become either under-sensitive or over-sensitive to the ambient smoke obscuration level. An algorithm implemented in software stored in system memory (204) determines whether and provides an indication that for a time (such as 27 hours) the clean air voltage has strayed outside established sensitivity tolerance limits. The replaceable canopy is specially designed with multiple pegs (80) having multi-faceted surfaces (110, 112, 114).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Brian Andrew Bernal, Robert Gerard Fischette, Kirk Rodney Johnson, Douglas Henry Marman
  • Publication number: 20040090337
    Abstract: A device is described for warning of abnormal operating conditions such as development of gases, such as smoke fumes from smouldering in equipment such as electrical equipment and the like, or warning of gas leaks from containers, pipelines, etc., comprising a housing-forming element with inlets for rising air from the equipment, and a detector inside the housing for monitoring for the presence of any gases in the air from the equipment/container, and any increase in the temperature in the equipment. The device is characterised in that the housing defines one or more ducts, preferably in an upwardly direction, from the mentioned inlet and to the outlet from the housing, as each of the one or more ducts comprises a detector arranged in a duct, respectively. Also described is an application of the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2003
    Publication date: May 13, 2004
    Inventor: Kenneth Nordvik
  • Patent number: 6734800
    Abstract: A device used to alert an individual of the presense of low atmospheric pressure. This is accomplished through the use of an aeronoid barometer, and an audio/visual alarm. The counterclockwise rotation of the metallic barometer needle contacts the the sensor probe, or metallic contact, at a given low atmospheric pressure. This contact completes an electrical circuit which activates an alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Inventor: Ronald C Laieski
  • Patent number: 6720886
    Abstract: A switchgear cabinet including a smoke indicator which has an intake pipe and, in a housing, a smoke sensor as well as a fan or ventilator, which draws air from the interior of the switchgear cabinet into the housing via an inlet aperture in a housing wall and discharges the air via an outlet into the space outside the housing. A sensitive smoke indicator, which is also usable with the switchgear cabinet partially open, has the intake pipe communicating by its upper end region with the inlet aperture. The housing which is enclosed in a sealing manner apart from the intake pipe and the outlet, is disposed in the interior of the switchgear cabinet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Assignee: Rittal GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Michael Seelbach, Heinrich Strackbein, Markus Hain, Edgar Nickel
  • Patent number: 6703922
    Abstract: A method for monitoring exposure time of workers involves the use of a sensor, which is carried by the workers for monitoring continually in a real-time fashion in an environment such that the results are recorded by a recorder. The an add-on or built-in timer in the sensor or the recorder is used to monitor time, which is recorded in the recorder simultaneously, so as to obtain the real-time continuous exposure level of a hazardous material in the environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: Institute of Occupational Safety & Health, Council of Labor Affairs
    Inventors: Tung-Sheng Shih, Peng-Yau Wang
  • Patent number: 6696971
    Abstract: An adapter (10) for a light fixture (F) has a socket (16) into which the base of the light bulb (L) is screwed. The adapter has a base (12) sized to be inserted in a socket of the light fixture for attaching the adapter to the light fixture. The adapter further includes a housing (14) in which is installed an audio alarm (20) for a security system. The audio alarm is electrically operated and connected in parallel with the light bulb. Electrical current routed to the adapter through the light fixture simultaneously illuminates the light bulb screwed into the socket of the light holder and the audio alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Inventor: Gess Tukin
  • Patent number: 6696967
    Abstract: Provided is an alarm for detecting radiation, smoke and/or other air pollutants and includes detection means, first means for connection to a light fitting, and second means for connection to a light source. Electrical connection means connects the first means and the second means to enable the light source to be powered from the light fitting. In addition, a battery powers the alarm during periods of non-use of the light source, and isolating means thermally isolates the detection means from at least one of the electrical connection means, the light fitting and the light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Inventors: Nicholas Alexander Rutter, Simon Paul Tate
  • Publication number: 20040001006
    Abstract: A modular smoke detector has a sensing electrode carried by an insulator module. The insulator module also carries an ionization source and a field effect transistor. The insulator module lockingly engages a printed circuit board. A conical smoke deflector and exterior electrode are assembled to the insulator module. The deflector and exterior electrode are spaced apart providing a space for inflow and outflow of airborne particles of combustion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2003
    Publication date: January 1, 2004
    Inventors: William MacPherson, Gregory A. Wischstadt
  • Publication number: 20030227391
    Abstract: A covering and mounting structure for mounting a motion detector having electronic adjustment controls, light emitting diodes (LEDs), and at least one motion detector lens, provides for selectively covering the controls, LEDs and a motion detector lens. The structure can be cylindrical or non-cylindrical in shape, and disposed in pendant or standing-post arrangement. Furthermore, the structure includes a telescopic structure or an exterior cover for the selective covering. In one embodiment, the structure includes one downwardly viewing first motion detector lens and a laterally viewing second PIR motion detector lens.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2002
    Publication date: December 11, 2003
    Inventor: Daniel John Beasley
  • Patent number: 6636154
    Abstract: An ambient air condition sensor housing includes a front portion releasably coupled to a rear portion and defining an interior space therebetween adapted to retain at least one ambient air condition sensor. The rear portion defines apertures for passage of the ambient air therethrough. A labyrinth having a plurality of spaced apart upstanding walls is integrally attached to an inner surface of the rear portion and is positioned so as to cooperate with the air condition sensor. Each wall of the labyrinth includes a slightly arcuate configuration for funneling the ambient air toward the air condition sensor. The rear portion and labyrinth are completely covered with a black coating so as to minimize light reflectivity within the interior space whereby to enhance proper functioning of the air sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Inventors: Thomas B. Brundage, Brian C. Hall
  • Publication number: 20030193397
    Abstract: To provide an anti-thief security sensor assembly in which the angle of an optical unit can be adjusted over a wide range without increasing the size thereof and in which an optical axis can easily be adjusted, the security sensor assembly includes an optical unit (14) mounted at its lateral sides on a support member (9) of a device body (4) for rotation about a horizontal pivot axis (24) for projecting or receiving a detecting wave. A drive gear (29) is rotatably mounted on the support member (9) and positioned laterally of the optical unit (14) and adapted to be manually turned. A driven gear (39) is mounted on a lateral side of the optical unit (14) and is drivingly meshed with the drive gear (29). The driven gear (39) is rotatable together with the optical unit (14) about a horizontal pivot axis (11).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2003
    Publication date: October 16, 2003
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Ikeda
  • Publication number: 20030148637
    Abstract: A sensor head component is configurable as an accessory for performing various functions on other sensor head components interconnected in a sensor head of a monitoring tool assembly. Certain sensor head components may benefit from the performance of such functions as removable of debris from particular surfaces as well as calibration processes. To perform these functions, an accessory is configurable to include a body portion with a motor positioned therein. Connectable to the motor may be an accessory arm which includes at least one element connected thereto for performing the particular function. When activated, the motor manipulates the accessory arm such that the element moves within a target area and performs the particular function upon at least one of the sensor head components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2002
    Publication date: August 7, 2003
    Inventors: Kent D. Henry, Christopher J. McKee
  • 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: 20030071740
    Abstract: An ambient air condition sensor housing includes a front portion releasably coupled to a rear portion and defining an interior space therebetween adapted to retain at least one ambient air condition sensor. The rear portion defines apertures for passage of the ambient air therethrough. A labyrinth having a plurality of spaced apart upstanding walls is integrally attached to an inner surface of the rear portion and is positioned so as to cooperate with the air condition sensor. Each wall of the labyrinth includes a slightly arcuate configuration for funneling the ambient air toward the air condition sensor. The rear portion and labyrinth are completely covered with a black coating so as to minimize light reflectivity within the interior space whereby to enhance proper functioning of the air sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventors: Thomas B. Brundage, Brian C. Hall
  • Publication number: 20030063005
    Abstract: A fire heat sensor comprising a high-temperature detecting portion provided with a temperature detecting element which exhibits a fast heat response to a rise in ambient temperature, and a low-temperature detecting portion provided with a temperature detecting element which exhibits a slow heat response to a rise in ambient temperature. The fire heat sensor further comprises a resin member by which the high-temperature detecting portion and the low-temperature detecting portion are integrally formed so that heat energy is transferred from the temperature detecting element of the high-temperature detecting portion to the temperature detecting element of the low-temperature detecting portion. In the fire heat sensor, differential heat sensing is performed based on temperatures detected by the low-temperature detecting portion and the high-temperature detecting portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2002
    Publication date: April 3, 2003
    Applicant: Hoichiki Corporation
    Inventors: Kari Mayusumi, Yukio Yamauchi, Hiroshi Shima
  • Publication number: 20030063007
    Abstract: A switchgear cabinet including a smoke indicator which has an intake pipe and, in a housing, a smoke sensor as well as a fan or ventilator, which draws air from the interior of the switchgear cabinet into the housing via an inlet aperture in a housing wall and discharges the air via an outlet into the space outside the housing. A sensitive smoke indicator, which is also usable with the switchgear cabinet partially open, has the intake pipe communicating by its upper end region with the inlet aperture. The housing which is enclosed in a sealing manner apart from the intake pipe and the outlet, is disposed in the interior of the switchgear cabinet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2002
    Publication date: April 3, 2003
    Inventors: Michael Seelbach, Heinrich Strackbein, Markus Hain, Edgar Nickel
  • Publication number: 20030058117
    Abstract: A fire sensor comprising a baseplate, a temperature detecting element, and a protective case. The baseplate has an outside surface which serves as a heat sensing surface which is exposed to a hot airflow generated by a fire. The temperature detecting element thermally contacts with the inside surface of the baseplate to detect the temperature of the baseplate. The protective case contacts with the radially outer portion of the inside surface of the baseplate to form a hermetically sealed space between itself and the baseplate. The temperature detecting element is confined within the hermetically sealed space. The baseplate has the temperature detecting element in approximately the central portion of the inside surface thereof and also has a shape and a material which meet the condition that the product of the thickness and heat conductivity of the baseplate is 1.1×10−4 (W/K) or less.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2002
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Applicant: Hoichiki Corporation
    Inventors: Kari Mayusumi, Yukio Yamauchi, Hiroshi Shima
  • Publication number: 20030058116
    Abstract: A fire sensor comprising a heat detection element for detecting heat from a hot airflow generated by a fire, a sensor main body, and an outer cover, which has a plurality of plate fins protruding from the sensor main body, for protecting the heat detecting element. The plate fins have a predetermined offset angle to a center line passing through the center of the outer cover and are erected approximately perpendicular to the sensor main body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2002
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Applicant: Hoichiki Corporation
    Inventors: Kari Mayusumi, Yukio Yamauchi, Hiroshi Shima
  • Publication number: 20030058104
    Abstract: To provide an anti-thief security sensor assembly wherein an optical axis of a beam projecting unit can be accurately aligned with that of a beam receiving unit, the anti-thief security sensor assembly includes a beam projecting unit 1 for projecting an infrared beam IR and a beam receiving unit 8 for receiving the infrared beam IR. The beam projecting unit 1 includes a projector cover 21A detachably mounted on a mounting base 20A for enclosing and protecting a sensor circuit on the mounting base 20A, an opening detecting switch 7 for detecting a physical opening of the projector cover 21A, and a projected beam suppressing circuit 4 operable in response to detection by the opening detecting switch 7 to reduce a quantity of the infrared beam emitted from the beam projecting unit 1 to thereby reproduce the infrared beam of a quantity substantially equal to that having passed through the projector cover 21A.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Inventors: Masashi Iwasawa, Tsuyoshi Hatano, Hiroyuki Ikeda
  • Patent number: 6515588
    Abstract: A monitoring and alerting system for luggage including a master unit and a plurality of slave units. Each slave unit has a unique identity. The master unit and slave units each have a status display having numbered indicia which normally displays the numbered indicia for the slave units in a first color, and has an annunciator. When the master unit and slave units are separated by a predetermined distance, an alert condition is established whereby the numbered indicia for that slave unit changes to a second color and both the master unit and slave unit sound an alert with their annunciators. A wire loop may be used to attach the slave units to luggage, which normally maintains a closed circuit, such that if the wire loop is removed from the luggage and becomes open circuited while the slave unit is on, the alert condition is established.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Inventor: Ricardo Sarabia
  • Publication number: 20020171557
    Abstract: A security electronic system comprises a monitoring/communication device mounted to a cap that removeably closes a housing. The housing is hung by a flexible obedient cable from a building ceiling or the like such that the monitoring device is proximate a target area. The flexible obedient cable is bendable to adjust the location of the monitoring device, but the flexible obedient cable indefinitely maintains the monitoring/communication device at the proper location. The monitoring/communication device may be a fixed or variable focus camera in monochrome or color, infrared illuminator/lighting, motion sensor, low voltage lighting, smoke detector, speaker audio unit, or other device that is back-mounted to the cap. Target areas remote from each other are serviced by separate distribution points, which minimizes the length of the necessary wires.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2001
    Publication date: November 21, 2002
    Inventor: William E. Wegener
  • Publication number: 20020167414
    Abstract: Resonant decay sensors that determine a parameter based on the decay of acoustic standing waves in a tube. Parameters that can be determined include temperature, pressure, the level of a material in the tube, and the height of a material above an end of the tube. Resonant decay sensors can produce both point level and continuous level sensors. A vibration mount, such as a rubber ring, beneficially isolates an acoustic transducer from the body of the tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2001
    Publication date: November 14, 2002
    Inventor: John Michael Kelly
  • Publication number: 20020167411
    Abstract: A sensor element is described, having a heating device, which is used for determining at least one gas component of an exhaust gas of an internal combustion engine. On at least one outer surface of sensor element a heat-conducting layer is applied, at least in a plurality of places, which has a higher thermal conductivity than the outer surface of sensor element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2002
    Publication date: November 14, 2002
    Inventors: Thomas Egner, Hans-Joerg Renz, Lothar Diehl
  • Publication number: 20020167410
    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: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2001
    Publication date: November 14, 2002
    Inventors: Ouellette Daniel, Fabry Roland