Abstract:
Multiple parameter fire detection uses outputs from one or more radiant energy sensors in combination with outputs from smoke or thermal sensors to shorten response times to alarm while minimizing nuisance alarms. The radiant energy related outputs can be used to alter parameters of the smoke or thermal sensors. The various sensors can be displaced from one another in an alarm system.
Abstract:
Wide area camera vision systems can respond to variations in light beams projected into a region being monitored. The variations are indicative of the presence of smoke in the region. In addition to providing viewable images of the region being monitored, analysis software can be used to evaluate the extent of smoke in the region or regions being monitored.
Abstract:
An ambient condition detector incorporates an audio transducer for discrimination between alarm and non-alarm conditions. The transducer can provide occupancy information. In addition, a monitoring system can graphically present information as to the location of individuals, such as firefighters, in the region.
Abstract:
An aspirated-type detector includes a housing with an internal ambient condition sensing region and a sensor carried therein. The housing is perforated with ambient atmosphere inflow ports. A fan or similar device lowers the pressure in the internal region thereby producing a positive inflow of adjacent, external ambient atmosphere into the sensing region. Alternatively, the fan can be operated to inject exterior ambient atmosphere into the sensing chamber under positive pressure. The fan can also be modularized. The detector can incorporate control circuitry for supervisory or signal processing purposes.
Abstract:
An isolation circuit, which draws essentially zero current in a normal or stand-by state, uses a normally closed relay in combination with a storage element. A capacitor can be used as the storage element to energize the relay, using previously stored energy, in the event that a communication line to which the isolator is coupled exhibits a short circuit or low voltage condition. In this instance, the prestored energy on the capacitor activates the relay for a predetermined period of time, thereby open circuiting the communication line. When voltage is reapplied to one side of the isolator circuit, the relay is continuously energized and maintained in its open circuit condition until the low voltage or short circuit has been remedied.
Abstract:
A wireless communications system incorporates a plurality of synchronized wireless units. Each unit minimizes energy requirements by entering a low current, inactive, state between synchronizing signals. The unit automatically enters an active state prior to receipt of the next synchronizing signal.
Abstract:
A residential monitoring system incorporates a plurality of physiological sensors that can provide information as to the condition of an individual. That information can be coupled to a local computer which can carry out more extensive analysis and engage in more complex interactions with both the individual and a displaced care giver.
Abstract:
An ambient condition detector has a housing that carries a sensor of an airborne constituent such as a gas, and a condenser for minimizing an inflow of moisture into the sensor. A filter can be used to reduce fluid flow velocity prior to passing through or by the condenser.
Abstract:
A flexible multi-processor communications system supports variable message lengths and variable groups and application designations at respective processors. The receiving processors determine what action, if any, needs to be taken in response to the combination of group and application information in the messages. The receiving processors can include pluralities of pre-stored groups and applications along with associated priorities and the functions to perform.
Abstract:
A monitoring system for one or more physiological conditions includes at least one sensor couplable to an individual whose condition is being monitored. The sensor is in real-time wireless, continuous communication with a displaced unit, which could be local to the individual. The displaced unit evaluates incoming signals from the sensor to determine if the individual or other caregivers need feedback as to a sensed condition.