Advanced Fire Detection Using Multi-Signature Alarm Algorithms

Published

March 16, 1999

Author(s)

D T. Gottuk, M J. Peatross, R J. Roby, C L. Beyler

Abstract

The objective of this work was to assess the feasibility of reducing false alarms while increasing sensitivity through the use of combined conventional smoke detectors with carbon monoxide (CO) sensors. This was accomplished through an experimental program using both real (fire) and nuisance alarm sources. A broad selection of sources was used ranging from smoldering wood and flaming fabric to cooking fumes. Individual sensor outputs and various signal-conditioning schemes involving multiple sensors were explored. The results show that improved fire-detection capabilities can be achieved over standard smoke detectors by combining smoke measurements with CO measurements in specific algorithms. False alarms can be reduced while increasing sensitivity (i.e., decreasing the detection time for real fires). Patented alarm criteria were established using algorithms consisting of the product of smoke obscuration and the change in CO concentration. Alarm algorithms utilizing ionization detector smoke measurements proved to be more effective than measurements from photoelectric detectors. 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.

Proceedings Title

Fire Suppression and Detection Research Application Symposium. Research and Practice: Bridging the Gap. Proceedings. Fire Protection Research Foundation

Conference Dates

March 16-18, 1999

Conference Location

Orlando, FL

Conference Title

International Conference on Automatic Fire Detection "AUBE '99", 11th. Proceedings. University of Duisburg. [Internationale Konferenz uber Automatischen Brandentdeckung.]

Pub Type

Conferences

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Keywords

fire detection, fire detection systems, algorithms, false alarms, sensitivity, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide, sensors, smoke measurement

Citation

Gottuk, D. , Peatross, M. , Roby, R. and Beyler, C. (1999), Advanced Fire Detection Using Multi-Signature Alarm Algorithms, Fire Suppression and Detection Research Application Symposium. Research and Practice: Bridging the Gap. Proceedings. Fire Protection Research Foundation, Orlando, FL, [online], https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=916590 (Accessed April 19, 2024)