Novel Integrated System for Fire Detection, Alarms & Real-Time Fire-Ground Surveys

Cyrano Sciences, Inc. proposes to develop and demonstrate a distributed sensor network that uses arrays of traditional and non-traditional detectors with data fusion to improve system performance and to perform a real-time survery of the fire ground to better protect and inform firefighters. Each node consists of multiple detectors, including a polymer-composite sensor array and other detectors, to reduce the incidence of false alarms and provide faster fire detection capabilities. Data fusion occurs at each node and alarm fusion occurs at a system-wide level, providing robust alarms and the ability to locate the source of a fire. The overall architecture of the system allows sensors to be added after installation and provides a communications center for mobile devices with GUIs. We envision using non-traditional sensors, such as video and force sensors, that will be installed in the structure and integrated with the system to provide complete and new information to first responders. We also envision that firefighters will have GPS and residual life indicators (for respirators) on their person and that these sensors will communicate with the building communications center, providing full information to the firefighter command center about the fire, the building, and personnel.