Connected monitoring system

A multi-zone monitoring system is disclosed. The system includes a plurality of sensor modules configured to monitor conditions in a plurality of detection zones. The sensor modules include a combination of detection devices configured to detect different conditions based on a designated zone of each sensor module. The system further includes a reporting device in communication with each of the sensor modules. The reporting device is configured to report the status of each of the detection zones based on indications communicated via the detection devices in the corresponding detection zone.

TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to a monitoring system and more particularly relates to a monitoring system for a home or building.

SUMMARY

In one aspect of the disclosure, a multi-zone monitoring system is disclosed. The system comprises a plurality of sensor modules configured to monitor conditions in a plurality of detection zones. The sensor modules comprise a combination of detection devices configured to detect different conditions based on a designated zone of each sensor module. The system further comprises a reporting device in communication with each of the sensor modules. The reporting device is configured to report the status of each of the detection zones based on indications communicated via the detection devices in the corresponding detection zone.

In another aspect of the disclosure, a multi-zone monitoring system is disclosed. The system comprises a plurality of sensor modules configured to monitor conditions in a plurality of detection zones. Each of the sensor modules comprises a combination of detection devices configured to detect different conditions based on a designated zone of each sensor module. The detection devices comprise a kitchen sensor module configured to detect conditions in a kitchen region. The kitchen sensor module is configured to detect a burning food associated with a stove or cooktop. The system further comprise a reporting device in communication with each of the sensor modules. The reporting device is configured to report the status of each of the detection zones based on indications communicated via the detection devices in the corresponding detection zone.

In yet another aspect of the disclosure, a multi-zone monitoring system is disclosed and includes a plurality of sensor modules configured to monitor conditions in a plurality of detection zones. The sensor modules comprise a combination of detection devices configured to detect different conditions based on a designated zone of each sensor module. The plurality of sensor modules comprises a nursery sensor module configured to detect conditions in a nursery region. The nursery sensor module comprises an ammonia sensor configured to detect ammonia in the air of the nursery region. The system further includes a reporting device in communication with each of the sensor modules. The reporting device is configured to report the status of each of the detection zones based on indications communicated via the detection devices in the corresponding detection zone. The reporting device is configured to output a urine or excrement notification in response to the detection of the ammonia in the air of the nursery region.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Implementations of the subject matter are demonstrated in exemplary representations herein. However, it is to be understood that the disclosed subject matter may assume various alternative packages and orientations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

Referring now toFIG. 1, reference numeral10generally designates a monitoring system for a building or home12. The monitoring system10may comprise a plurality of sensor modules14that may be utilized to detect a condition of each of a plurality of zones or rooms in the building or home12. In some examples, each of the sensor modules14may be configured to monitor particular environmental conditions and provide for various functions that may be configured to detect room or zone-specific conditions. The conditions may include a wide variety of temperature and environmental conditions that may be associated with the corresponding zone, room, or environment which a respective sensor module14is configured to monitor. As discussed herein, the sensor modules14comprise a garage module14a, a kitchen module14b, and a bedroom or nursery module14c. However, additional sensor modules14may be utilized in coordination with the system10without departing from the spirit of the disclosure.

Each of the sensor modules14may be connected via a wireless communication network16, which may utilize a reporting device (e.g. a wireless router17and/or a status hub18), which may further comprise a status interface20. The communication network16may be implemented by utilizing a variety of communication protocols configured to distribute data among various electronic devices. For example, the communication network16may comprise an IEEE 802.11 connection, and IEEE 802.15 connection, a Bluetooth® connection, a Wi-Fi connection, a WiMAX connection, cellular signal, a signal using Shared Wireless Access Protocol-Cord Access (SWAP-CA) protocol, or any other type of RF or wireless signal. An IEEE 802.15 connection includes any wireless personal area networks (WPAN), such as ZigBee, Z-Wave, Bluetooth®, UWB, and IrDA. In this configuration, the communication network16may provide for the sensor modules14to share and receive information from a mobile device22, the status hub18, and/or a remote server24or a cloud-based network via an internet connection26.

The mobile device22may be in communication with the status hub18and/or the sensor modules14via the communication network16. Accordingly, though discussed in reference to the status hub18and the status interface20, the reporting device may be implemented as the mobile device22or various devices that may be in communication with the sensor modules14. In this way, a user of the system10may flexibly access the status signals and various information captured via the sensor modules14. Additionally, the mobile device22may be configured to send and/or receive audio messages such that the sensor modules14may further provide for two-way communication. As discussed herein, the mobile device22may correspond to various forms of mobile devices including, but not limited to, a smartphone, tablet, cellular telephone, laptop, computer, etc.

In order to provide for the two-way communication, the status hub18, as well as one or more of the sensor modules14, may comprise a microphone28and/or a speaker30. In such embodiments, the system10may also be configured to control output prerecorded or generated audible warnings configured to communicate the nature of a condition or one or more warnings, instructions, and/or additional information to a user via the speaker30associated with each of the sensor modules14and the status hub18. Accordingly, in response to the detection of one or more states or conditions detected in each of the zones or rooms where the sensor modules14and/or the status hub18are located, the system may output a status notification or alert identifying the detected state. Additionally, the system10may be configured to initiate an emergency communication (e.g. a telephonic communication) from the system10in response to the detection of a potentially hazardous chemical or environmental condition that may be detected by one or more of the sensor modules14.

In addition to the microphone28and/or a speaker30, one or more of the sensor modules14or the status hub18may comprise display screen32. Additionally, the display screen32may serve as a touchscreen interface configured to receive inputs providing for the status interface20of the status hub18. Though shown as a separate device, the status hub18may include or comprise one or more of the sensor modules14in a single, continuous package. Additionally, the multiple status hubs18may be implemented to improve access to the status of various aspects of the home12that are monitored via the sensor modules14. Accordingly, the system10may provide for a convenient and flexible solution configured to monitor and communicate specific environmental, ambient, security, and/or status conditions of each of the monitored zones and the objects or lifeforms located in the zones as further discussed in the following detailed description.

Referring generally now toFIGS. 2-4, a plurality of zones40a,40b, and40care shown demonstrating exemplary operating environments for the garage module14a, the kitchen module14b, and the bedroom or nursery module14c. As previously described, each of the modules14may comprise a specific array or suite of detection devices42and/or additional devices (e.g. peripheral devices, such as the microphone28and/or a speaker30). For example, the sensor modules14may comprise a set or array of detection devices designed to track conditions and/or provide services or automated operations suited to each of the zones40. For example, each of the modules14may comprise a variety of the detection devices42, communication devices44, indicators, lights46, and various additional features that may be suited to the zone40in which the module14is configured to operate.

In various embodiments, the detection devices42may include, but are not limited to, an imaging device42a, a vapor or air quality detection device42b, moisture sensors42c, a proximity sensor42d, carbon monoxide sensor42e, heat sensor42f, thermometer42g, humidity sensor42h, vital sensors42i, infrared temperature sensors42j, a vehicle sensor42k, barrier status sensor42m, smoke detection device42n, and/or various additional sensors that may be suited to the environments of the respective zones40. In this way, each of the sensor modules14may provide for a wide variety of detection functions and features that may be associated with the zones40. The following description provides for examples of the garage module14a, the kitchen module14b, and the bedroom or nursery module14cin reference toFIGS. 2-4.

In various aspects, one or more of the detection devices42may be implemented with a chemical sensor or nanofiber chemical sensor. The nanofiber chemical sensor may be configured to sense various chemicals and compounds that may be present in the ambient air within the one or more compartments14. In operation, each of the nanofiber chemical sensors may communicate with a processor configured to monitor changes in electrical characteristics for each of the nanofiber chemical sensors in the presence of the various airborne materials. Based on the combination of signals received from the nanofiber chemical sensor(s), the system10may identify the presence and concentration of one or more contaminants in one or more of the zones40or rooms.

The nanofibers used in the sensors may be synthesized with specific functional groups that can interact with specific airborne materials/vapors/particles. The nanofibers are deposited on an interdigitated electrode to form an electrode-nanofiber array. Interaction of the nanofibers with airborne materials changes the measured electrical characteristics of the nanofiber chemical sensor. An increase or decrease in the measured current or effective resistance of each of the nanofiber chemical sensors occurs as a result of interaction with these airborne material interactions. Examples of nanofiber chemical sensors are discussed in detail in U.S. Patent No. 10,962,493, entitled, “NANOFIBER SMOKE DETECTION CALIBRATION” filed Apr. 18, 2019, by David J. Cammenga; U.S. Patent Publication No. 2020/0080978 A1, entitled, “MULTIMODE PLATFORM FOR DETECTION OF COMPOUNDS” filed Sep. 17, 2019, by Ling Zhang; and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2018/0348129 A1, entitled, “NANOFIBRIL MATERIALS FOR HIGHLY SENSITIVE AND SELECTIVE SENSING OF AMINES” filed Nov. 21, 2017, by Ling Zhang, which are included herein by reference in their entirety.

Referring now toFIG. 2, an example of the garage module14ais shown. The garage module14amay comprise a plurality of detection devices42that may be suited to detect conditions that may be encountered in a garage50. In the illustrated example, the garage50comprises at least one garage door opener52configured to open and close a garage door54to provide selective access to the garage50. The garage door opener52may include an electronic receiver58configured to receive command in the form of wireless control signals from a remote control device (e.g. a dedicated garage door opener remote) and/or a programmable or trainable transmitter60that may be incorporated in the vehicle56, the garage module14a, and/or various modules or devices of or in communication with the system10. As discussed herein, the trainable transmitter may correspond to a HOMELINK® system. Examples of trainable control systems and other similar systems are described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,819,498, entitled “SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR WIRELESS RE-PROGRAMMING OF MEMORY IN A COMMUNICATION SYSTEM,” filed Aug. 21, 2012, by Chris H. Vuyst; and U.S. Pat. No. 8,384,513, entitled “TRANSMITTER AND METHOD FOR TRANSMITTING AN RF CONTROL SIGNAL,” filed Jan. 3, 2006, by Todd R. Witkowski, which are included herein by reference in their entirety.

In order to monitor the garage50, the garage module14a, may be centrally mounted such that the detection devices42may detect conditions in the garage50that may be of interest and communicate such conditions to the status hub18and among the various devices (e.g. the mobile device22) and modules14of the system10. In an exemplary implementation, the garage module14amay comprise a trainable transmitter60, the imaging device42a, the vapor or air quality detection device42b, a proximity sensor42d, carbon monoxide sensor42e, heat sensor42f, thermometer42g, humidity sensor42h, infrared temperature sensors42j, a vehicle sensor42k, barrier status sensor42m, and/or a smoke detection device42n. Additionally, the garage module14amay comprise a light source62, the microphone28, and/or the speaker30. In this configuration, the garage module14amay be configured to detect a variety of conditions in the garage50and control the garage door opener52via an activation of the trainable transmitter60. For example, the garage module14amay be configured to control the garage door opener52to open the garage door54in response to a remote access request via the status hub18and/or the mobile device22or in response to an air quality condition or evacuation concern as identified by the detection devices42as discussed herein. Additionally, the garage module14amay be configured to communicate a status to the status hub18and/or announce a status or condition of the garage50or any of the zones40of the sensor modules14in communication with the system10.

In operation, the detection devices may each be configured to detect one or more conditions of interest in the garage50. For example, the imaging device42amay be implemented to detect motion and/or identify objects in the garage50. Such detection may be implemented to identify a security status resulting from the detection of a person or animal in the garage50and/or identify a presence of the vehicle56based on the associated image data. Additionally, the vapor or air quality detection device42bmay be implemented to detect one or more air contaminants or chemicals in the air. Such detections may not only be utilized to identify air quality conditions but also an operating state of the vehicle56and to identify a fuel or fluid leak deposited on a floor or surface of the garage50. The air quality may identify the presence of such contaminants and identify the nature of the contaminants based on the chemical composition of particles identified in the garage50. Additionally, the air quality detection device42bmay be associated with a carbon monoxide sensor42e. In this way, the garage module14amay be configured to detect a variety of conditions in the garage50. Further details air quality detection device42bare discussed in reference toFIG. 5.

In some implementations, the garage module14amay further comprise one or more detection devices42configured to detect conditions in the garage50. For example, the heat sensor42for the thermometer42gmay be configured to detect increased heat levels that may be associated with a fire. Similarly, the smoke detection device42nmay be configured to detect smoke from a fire condition in the garage50. The garage module14amay further comprise a vehicle sensor42k(e.g. an inductive sensor) to detect the presence of the vehicle56in the garage50as well as the barrier status sensor42m(e.g. an inductive or optical sensor, momentary switch, etc.) to detect a closure status of the garage door54. In some implementations, the garage module14amay be configured to control the garage door54to open or prevent the garage door54from closing in response to a detection that the vehicle56is present in the garage and an engine is running. The determination of the vehicle56running may be determined by the garage module14a, and more generally by the system10, based on emissions detected via the detection devices (e.g. the air quality detection device42b) or communications from a communication circuit in the vehicle56.

In some implementations, the garage module14amay be configured to detect the temperature and humidity of the garage50with the thermometer42gand the humidity sensor42h. Additionally, the garage module14amay be configured to detect the temperature of one or more objects or surfaces of objects in the garage50. For example, the garage module14amay comprise one or more of the infrared temperature sensors42j, which may be directed to a portion of the garage50where the vehicle56may commonly be parked. The garage module14amay similarly or additionally comprise the imaging device42aincorporating to an infrared imaging device and/or thermal imaging device. The thermal imaging device may correspond to a focal plane array (FPA) utilizing microbolometers as FPA sensors. In this way, the garage module14amay be configured to detect and report temperature or fire related conditions in the garage50.

As discussed herein, one or more of the sensor modules14may comprise a sensory window70(e.g. an imaging field of view, a detection range, etc.). Accordingly, a representative sensory window70is shown demonstrating the sensory window70aligned centrally within the garage50and configured to monitor a substantial portion of the garage50wherein the one or more vehicles56may be parked. Though a single garage module14ais demonstrated inFIG. 2, the system10may comprise a plurality of modules14in each of the zones40in order to ensure coverage and responsive detection that may be scalable based on the proportions of each of the zones40.

The trainable transmitter may be configured to control the garage door opener52(e.g., to issue a signal that causes the garage door opener52to open a garage door54). The trainable transmitter may be trained using an original transmitter used to control garage door opener52. For example, the original transmitter may be a hand-held garage door opener transmitter configured to transmit a garage door opener signal at a frequency, such as 355 Megahertz (MHz), wherein the activation signal has control data, which can be fixed code or cryptographically-encoded code (e.g., a rolling code). Accordingly, the system10may provide for the sensor module14to display instructions and/or warnings related to the detection of one or more states, events, chemicals, etc. that may be detected by the detection devices42.

Referring now toFIG. 3, an example of the kitchen module14bis shown in a kitchen78representing the second zone40b. The kitchen module14bmay comprise a plurality of the detection devices42that may be suited to detect conditions that may be encountered near a range80(e.g. oven, cooktop, etc.), a refrigerator82, a small appliance84(coffee maker, toaster, microwave, etc.), a dishwasher, and/or a sink86. For example, the kitchen module14bmay comprise an imaging device42a, a vapor or air quality detection device42b(e.g. explosive gas detector), moisture sensors42c, a carbon monoxide sensor42e, heat sensor42f, thermometer42g, infrared temperature sensors42j(e.g. flame or heat detection), smoke detection device42n(e.g. an optical smoke detection device), and/or various additional sensors suited to the environment of the kitchen78. Additionally, the kitchen module14bmay comprise the light source62(e.g. a motion or security light), the microphone28, and/or the speaker30. Though discussed in reference to the kitchen78, the sensor module14bmay be similarly suited for placement in a utility room containing a washer, clothes dryer, slop sink, etc.

In operation, the imaging device42amay be configured to detect a usage or occupancy of the kitchen78. Such information may be implemented by the system10as an indication of the security status of the building or home12. The system10may monitor the vapor or air quality detection device42bto identify a variety of chemical compositions that may be detected in the kitchen78. For example, the air quality detection device42bmay be configured to detect a gas leak (e.g. associated with the range80), burning food products, chemical leaks or usage of household chemicals, and/or a contaminant odor that may be related to the sink86and/or a garbage or refuse receptacle. The system10may monitor the moisture sensors42cto detect leaks related to the sink or refrigerator82, which may be utilized to identify unexpected thawing events.

The smoke detection device42nof the kitchen module14bmay be monitored by the system10to identify and/or report a fire or smoke-related events that may be associated with the range80and/or the small appliance84. Similarly, the thermometer42gand the infrared temperature sensor42jmay be configured to detect localized heating proximate to the kitchen module14band or high-temperature zones located in the sensory window70as previously discussed. In this way, the system10may utilize the kitchen module14bto detect and report a variety of events or conditions that may be attributed to kitchen related appliances and related conditions in the home12.

In some examples, the modules14(e.g., the kitchen module14b) may be configured to report one or more alert conditions to the status hub18in response to the detection of a combination of conditions identified in the corresponding zone40. In some instances, the system10may be configured to report a condition in each of the zones40in response to a time or duration of a detection as well as an occupancy of the zone40in which the activity is detected. For example, the system10may report a burning condition (e.g. odor associated with burning as detected by the air quality detection device42b, smoke detection device42n, etc.) if the condition is detected for a first predetermined time (e.g. 30 seconds, 2 minutes, 5 minutes, etc.) when the kitchen78is unoccupied as identified by the imaging device42a. In an instance where the kitchen78or the corresponding zone40is occupied, the system10may report the condition if detected for a second predetermined period of time (e.g. 5 minutes, 15 minutes, 30 minutes, etc.). In some cases, the second predetermined time may exceed the first predetermined time, such that the notification when the zone40is occupied is not perceived as a nuisance. Though discussed in reference to the burning condition as detected by the kitchen module14b, the notifications for each of the conditions detected by the system10may vary based on the occupancy, timing, and the combination of various other conditions that may be detected by the sensor modules14of system10as discussed herein. Also, though discussed in reference to the occupancy of each of the zones40, the system10may similarly adjust the timing of notifications and alerts based on a zone being unoccupied for a predetermined period of time.

Referring now toFIG. 4, an example of the bedroom or nursery module14cis shown in a nursery90representing the third zone40c. The nursery module14cmay comprise a plurality of the detection devices42that may be suited to detect conditions that may be encountered near a crib92, a changing table94, a refuse container, etc. For example, the nursery module14cmay comprise the imaging device42a, a vapor or air quality detection device42b(e.g. ammonia sensor), a carbon monoxide sensor42e, thermometer42g, humidity sensor42h, vital sensors42i, a smoke detection device42n, and/or various additional sensors that may be suited to the environments of the nursery90.

The air quality detection device42b(e.g. ammonia sensor) may be configured to detect urine or excrement in the nursery90that may be related to a soiled diaper. In response to such detections, the system10may be configured to receive one or more instructions to mute/silence or delay alerts for a selected or predetermined period of time. Muting or silencing the alerts may provide for period of time for a user (e.g., a parent or caretaker) to clean or remedy the source of the odor without consistent or repeated triggering of the detection. The silence or delay of the warning or alarm may be controlled by a user interface, which may be incorporated on the nursery module14cand/or the status interface20, which may be incorporated or used in conjunction with each of the modules14a,14b, etc. Accordingly, the system10may enable the user to control the activation of a temporary mute operation or delay of one or more of the alerts output from the nursery module14cin response to a variety of user inputs including but not limited to an input to a pushbutton or touchscreen received by the status interface20, a voice instruction received via the microphone28, and/or a gesture recognized by the imaging device42a.

In addition to the alert output from the nursery module14c, the system10may additionally be configured to control one or more connected devices (e.g., a fan, air purifier, air freshener, etc.) in response to the detection of the urine or excrement. Such control instructions may be configured by an operator of the system10, such that the nursery module14cand/or any of the sensor modules14may be configured to control a connected device (e.g., smart device) in response to the detection of one or more conditions in each of the rooms or zones monitored by the system10. Such associations or automated controls may be set up via the status interface20and/or the mobile device22in communication with the system10.

The vital sensors42imay correspond to a microwave Doppler sensor, millimeter-wave sensor, conventional imaging device, and/or range imagery device configured to detect the behavior of an occupant of one or more zones40of the system10. For example, the vital sensor42imay correspond to a microwave Doppler sensor directed toward a crib92of the nursery90and configured to detect the heartbeat and heart rate of a baby in the crib92. More generally, the sensory window70of the vital sensor42imay be directed to cover a mattress in the crib92, such that the nursery module14cmay detect and report the heart rate, movement, and various activities of the baby or subject of the sensor data. Additionally, the module14cand the system10may be configured to output status indications in response to the heart rate varying from a user-selected or preconfigured range of heart rates. In this configuration, the system10may provide for monitoring and alerts output via the sensor modules14, the status hub18, and/or the mobile device22to alert the user to a variety of conditions in the nursery90.

In some aspects, the nursery module14cmay further be configured to detect carbon monoxide levels at low concentrations. For example, the level of carbon monoxide in one or more of the zones40may be detected at levels exceeding 6-10 ppm. Accordingly, the carbon monoxide sensor42emay be configured to communicate the level of carbon monoxide, such that the modules14(e.g. the nursery module14c, kitchen module14b, etc.) may communicate an alert to the status hub18in response to the detection of a level of carbon monoxide exceeding a predetermined level (e.g. greater than 20 ppm, greater than 40 ppm, etc.) depending on the sensitivity of the corresponding zone40to the presence of the carbon monoxide. Accordingly, the system10may selectively communicate one or more alerts in response to the detection of the carbon monoxide at different levels in each of the zones40.

Additionally, the nursery module14cmay comprise the light source62(e.g. a motion or security light), the microphone28, and/or the speaker30. The light source may be configured as a task light and/or night light. The microphone28and speaker30may be configured to provide for a monitoring operation of a baby or individual in the nursery90as well as two-way communication via the mobile device22and/or the status hub18.

In general reference toFIGS. 2-4, the imaging device42amay correspond to a charge-coupled device (CCD) and the active-pixel sensor (CMOS sensor) configured to detect a usage or occupancy of each of the zones40. Such information may be implemented by the system10as an indication of the security status of the building or home12. Additionally, the system10may monitor the vapor or air quality detection device42bto identify a variety of chemical compositions that may be detected in or among the zones40. In this way, the system10may be configured to identify a location of a security event or environmental condition in one of the zones40and communicate the location of the condition via each of the sensor modules14, the status hub18, and/or the mobile device22.

The imaging device42amay be implemented in a variety of ways. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, the imaging device42amay comprise at least one image sensor, which may be in communication with one or more image processors and/or a memory configured to complete the various processing steps for image data captured in the sensory window70. The image processors may be integrated with or separately provided from a controller of the system10. As discussed further in reference toFIG. 6, the imaging device42amay be in communication with a communication circuit, which may be configured to communicate the image data to a remote server or device (e.g. a mobile device) for processing, review, and/or communication in relation to one or more notifications. Accordingly, the sensor module14, the status hub18, and/or the remote server24may be configured to process the image data captured by each of the imaging devices42adiscussed herein to complete various image processing and identification steps discussed herein.

In some examples, the imaging device42amay correspond to a plurality of imaging devices or stereoscopic imaging devices. The imaging device42amay also correspond to an infrared imaging device, thermal imaging device, or a combination of thermal and conventional imaging devices. The thermal imaging device may correspond to a focal plane array (FPA) utilizing microbolometers as FPA sensors. Accordingly, the image data captured by the system10may comprise thermal image data and/or conventional image data in the visible light spectrum. In this way, imaging device42amay be configured to detect changes in the image data by scanning each of the zones40in a variety of different wavelength of light (e.g. ultraviolet [UV], infrared [IR], etc.) and compare the image data to identify a variety of conditions.

Referring now toFIG. 5, an exemplary schematic diagram of the air quality detection device42bis shown. The air quality detection device42bmay be configured to identify a type and/or concentration of various chemicals in each of the zones40discussed herein. In various aspects, the air quality detection device42bmay correspond to a variety of sensory devices. For example, the air quality detection device42bmay be implemented by a variety of devices including, but not limited to, electrochemical sensors, amperometric gas sensors, carbon monoxide sensors, catalytic bead sensors, thermal conductivity sensors, metal oxide sensors (MOS), infrared (IR) sensors, photoionization detectors (PID), etc. Such sensors may vary in application and, therefore, may be implemented in various combinations to achieve the identification and detection of various chemicals and contaminants that may be present in the rooms or detection zones as discussed herein. Though specific examples are discussed herein, the air quality detection device42bmay be implemented by similar sensors or developing sensory technologies without departing from the spirit of the disclosure.

In some embodiments, the air quality detection device42bmay comprise at least one nanofiber chemical sensor100. The nanofiber chemical sensor100may be configured to sense various chemicals and compounds that may be present in the ambient air within the zones40. In some aspects, the at least one nanofiber chemical sensor100may comprise a plurality of nanofiber chemical sensors. In operation, each of the one or more nanofiber chemical sensors100may be in communication with a processor102, which may be configured to monitor changes in electrical characteristics for each of the nanofiber chemical sensors100in the presence of the various airborne materials. Based on the combination of signals received from the at least one nanofiber chemical sensor100, the processor102may be configured to identify the presence of one or more contaminants in the zones40.

The nanofibers used in the sensors100may be synthesized with specific functional groups that can interact with airborne materials/vapors/particles. The nanofibers are deposited on an interdigitated electrode to form an electrode-nanofiber array. Interaction of the nanofibers with airborne materials changes the measured electrical characteristics of the nanofiber chemical sensor100. An increase or decrease in the measured current or effective resistance of each of the nanofiber chemical sensors occurs as a result of these airborne material interactions.

Nanofibers of each of the sensors100with different functional groups have a different response to the same airborne material. By using the plurality of nanofiber chemical sensors100in an array, an identifying response signature can be established by the processor102for each of a plurality of airborne materials. Accordingly, based on the electrical signals communicated from the array, the processor102may be configured to detect a variety of conditions that may exist in the home12and/or the zones40. The nanofibers of the sensors100may have a proportionately large three-dimensional surface area that is resistant to particulate fouling. In various aspects, the processor102may be configured to identify a variety of contaminants in the zones40in response to the particular contaminant or family of contaminants identified by the air quality detection device42b.

In various aspects, the air quality detection device42bmay be configured to identify a variety of chemicals present in the passenger compartment and/or proximate to the corresponding sensor module14. Chemicals and compounds that may be detected by the device42bmay be trained or programmed based on electrical signatures received by the processor102in response to the presence of the chemicals. Examples of chemicals that may be identified and/or detected may include, but are not limited to, Benzaldehyde, Hexane, Acetone, Ethanol, Diesel Fuel, Nitrobenzene, and Formaldehyde. Some examples of explosives and chemical agents that may be detected may include Nitromethane, DNT (Dinitrotoluene), TNT (Trinitrotoluene), ANFO (Ammonium Nitrate Fuel Oil), Ammonium Nitrate, PETN (may detect taggant), RDX (may detect taggant), TATP (Triacetone Triperoxide), H2O2 (Hydrogen Peroxide), TEP (Triethylphosphate), DMMP (Dimethyl methylphosphonate), 2-Chloroethyl ethyl sulfide, Triphosgene, and Methyl Salicylate. Some examples of toxic chemicals that may be detected by the air quality detection device42bmay include, but are not limited to, Chlorine Gas, Ammonia, Hydrogen Peroxide, Sulfur Dioxide, Hydrochloric Acid, TEP (Triethyl Phosphate), Phosphine, Hydrogen Cyanide, Arsine, and Formaldehyde. In some examples, the detection device may also be configured to detect one or more chemicals commonly found in consumer foods and/or goods including, but not limited to, Trichloroanisole, Melamine, Trimethylamine, Limonene, Pinene, Linalyl acetate, Menthol, Menthone, and Linalool. The device42bmay additionally be configured to detect various amines including, but not limited to, N-Methylphenethylam-lamine, Phenethylamine, Methylamine, Aniline, Triethylamine, and Diethylamine. Accordingly, based on the detection of each of the chemicals detected by the device42b, the sensor module14may provide a corresponding response, which may update a status indication on the status hub18, control the garage door opener52, control a light or alarm notification, update a security status, relay an emergency notification, etc.

The chemical sensors100of the air quality detection device42bmay be arranged in any manner and may be disposed in an inner chamber106of a housing108having a plurality of air vents110. The air vents110may provide for ambient and/or forced air to flow into the inner chamber106. In this configuration, updated samples of the air present in the zones40may flow passed the chemical sensors100providing consistently updated monitoring of the chemical particulates present in the air. In various implementations, the air vents110may be large enough and/or numerous enough to allow the ambient air to flow into the inner chamber106without restriction. A processor102of the air quality detection device42bmay be in communication with the system10via a wired and/or wireless connection.

Common chemicals and corresponding odors that may be detected by the device42bin each of the modules14may vary widely. For example, the device42bmay be configured to identify a variety of odors including, but not limited to, perfumes, feces, fish, skunk, pet odor, decaying biological material, methane, hydrogen sulfide, body odor (body-related bacterial odor), smoke, alcohol, bodily fluids, vomit, etc. Some of these odors may relate to comfort issues while others could present health issues to one or more users or occupants of one or more of the zones40.

Additionally, the air quality detection device42bmay be configured to detect and identify a variety of chemicals that may generally be considered dangerous which may or may not cause a significant odor. Examples of such chemicals or sources of such chemicals may be allergens including, but not limited to, peanuts, soy, perfumes, smog, etc. Additional examples of chemical or sources of such chemicals may include, but are not limited to, explosives, gun powder, accelerants, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), drugs (e.g. methamphetamine, alcohol), smog, smoke, exhaust, etc. In response to the detection of such chemicals, the system10may respond in different ways, particularly in comparison to the detection of chemicals that may not be dangerous in relation to the occupancy of the zones.

Referring now toFIG. 6, a block diagram of the system10comprising the sensor module(s)14and the status hub18. InFIG. 6, the sensor module14of the system10is shown in communication with each of the detection devices42a-42n, etc. The sensor module14may comprise a processor122having one or more circuits configured to control various operations of the system10. The processor122may be in communication with a memory124configured to store instructions to control operations of the detection devices42and control various aspects of the system10in response thereto. For example, the sensor module14may be configured to store one or more control responses configured to control various peripherals or status notifications of the system10in response to the status of each of the detection devices42and the corresponding zone40.

In some embodiments, the status hub18may further comprise one or more communication circuits126configured to communicate via a communication network16. Accordingly, the system10may be in communication with a remote server24and/or a mobile device22via the communication network16. The communication network16may comprise one or more wireless or wired network interfaces or communication protocols. As discussed herein, wireless communication protocols may operate in accordance with communication standards including, but not limited to, the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineering (IEEE) 802.11 (e.g., WiFi™); Bluetooth®; advanced mobile phone services (AMPS); digital AMPS; global system for mobile communications (GSM); code division multiple access (CDMA); Long Term Evolution (LTE or 4G LTE); local multipoint distribution systems (LMDS); multi-channel-multi-point distribution systems (MMDS); RFID; and/or variations thereof. In this configuration, the sensor module14may be configured to send an alert or message to the mobile device22and/or the remote server24identifying a detection of a condition in the home12and a corresponding zone40of the detection. The alert or message may correspond to a text message, data message, email, alert via an application operating on the mobile device22, etc.

As discussed herein the status hub18may also comprise a transceiver circuit130that may be in communication with the communication network16, the remote server24, and/or the mobile device22. The status hub18may comprise a processor132in communication with a memory134. The processor132may correspond to one or more microprocessors and/or control circuits configured to process instructions that may be stored in the memory134. In an exemplary embodiment, the processor132may be configured to access and process instructions incorporated in a sensor control module, which may be stored in the memory134. In this way, the processor132may be configured to process various computational tasks that may be associated with selecting and communicating the various modes, alerts, status indications, and notifications as discussed herein. Such alerts may be communicated via each of the sensor modules14as well as the status interface20, which may comprise the microphone28, the speaker30, and a display screen as well as one or more of the sensor modules14integrated into a housing for use in one or more of the zones40.

Though described generically as processors, each of the processors provided herein may correspond to various forms of application-specific integrated circuits (ASICS), digital-signal-processors (DSPs), a group of processing components, and/or other suitable electronic processing components. The memory devices may correspond to one or more devices (e.g. RAM, ROM, flash memory, hard disk storage, etc.) for storing data and/or computer code that may be utilized to facilitate the various processes described herein. It will be understood that any described processes or steps within described processes may be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the present device. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and are not to be construed as limiting.

The above description is considered that of the illustrated embodiments only.