Redundant gas detection system
Inventors
Harrison, Matthew S. • McBee, Anthony D. • Loposser, Darren D. • Bowling, Michael E. • Smith, Nikolas J.
Assignees
Publication Number
US-12087146-B2
Publication Date
2024-09-10
Expiration Date
2042-10-06
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Abstract
A system for redundantly detecting a gas is provided. The system includes first and second series-connected gas sensors and a signaling module. If both gas sensors are functioning normally, the signaling module provides an alert when both gas sensors detect a predetermined gas concentration. If however any one of the gas sensors is experiencing a fault condition, the faulty gas sensor's alarm is shunted by operation of a fault relay, and the signaling module provides an alert when the non-faulty gas sensor detects a predetermined gas concentration. If both gas sensors are experiencing a fault condition, both gas sensors' alarms are shunted by fault relays, and an audible and/or visual alert is generated by the signaling module. Embodiments of the present invention are well suited for industrial facilities, manufacturing facilities, research and development laboratories, and other locations where unsafe gas concentrations may become present.
Core Innovation
The invention provides a system for redundantly detecting or monitoring a gas, using first and second gas sensors connected in series with a signaling module. Each gas sensor includes a detector switch and a fault relay. When both sensors are functioning normally, the signaling module issues an alert only if both sensors detect a predetermined gas concentration. This system is designed to enhance reliability by requiring agreement between two independent gas sensors under standard operating conditions.
When one of the gas sensors experiences a fault condition, the corresponding detector switch is shunted by operation of its fault relay. In this scenario, the non-faulty gas sensor alone controls the signaling module, which provides an alert if it detects a predetermined gas concentration. If both sensors are faulty, both detector switches are shunted, and the signaling module generates an audible and/or visual alert to indicate the failure. This redundancy ensures that monitoring can continue even if a single sensor fails, and clear alerts are generated for maintenance and safety.
The system is particularly applicable to environments where monitoring gas concentrations is critical for safety, such as industrial facilities, manufacturing facilities, and research and development laboratories. In addition to monitoring for oxygen, the system can be adapted for other gases including hydrogen, nitrous oxide, carbon dioxide, argon, and helium.
Claims Coverage
There are two independent claims in the patent, each stating a set of inventive features for redundant gas detection.
Redundant gas sensor system with fault bypass and signaling
A system comprising: - A signaling module configured to issue audio or visual signals. - A first and a second gas sensor connected in series with the signaling module, such that all are series connected between a supply voltage and ground. - Each gas sensor includes: - A detector switch that allows current to flow when the gas presence meets a predetermined target, causing the signaling module to issue a warning signal. - A fault relay configured to detect a fault and, upon determination of the fault, shunt the gas sensor and cause the signaling module to issue a fault signal associated with the faulty gas sensor. - The detector switch is normally open, closing in response to gas detection, and bypassed via the fault relay during a fault.
Series connected dual gas sensors with parallel fault relays and state-based signaling
A system comprising: - First and second gas sensors adapted to measure gas concentration, each including a gas detector switch (electrical switch changing state based on measured gas concentration relative to a predetermined gas concentration). - First and second fault relays, each connected in parallel with a respective gas detector switch. Each fault relay shunts its gas detector switch in response to a fault in the associated gas sensor. - A signaling module electrically connected in series with both gas detector switches, configured to issue alerts in response to combinations of detector switch states and/or faults, including: - Both detector switches active (second state), - One detector switch active and a fault detected in the other sensor, - Faults present in both sensors.
The inventive features establish a redundancy-based gas detection system using series-connected sensors with parallel fault relays and a signaling module that reacts to defined sensor and fault conditions.
Stated Advantages
Minimizes false alarms in gas detection to reduce unnecessary evacuations and operational downtime.
Maintains monitoring functionality even when one gas sensor is experiencing a fault condition.
Provides clear audible and visual alerts indicating either gas hazards or specific sensor faults.
Reduces workplace safety risks associated with occupants disabling sensors due to routine false alarms.
Documented Applications
Industrial facilities for monitoring unsafe gas concentrations.
Manufacturing facilities requiring atmospheric monitoring.
Research and development laboratories where gas hazards may occur.
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