EVACUATION SYSTEM WITH SENSORS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/736,676, filed Dec. 13, 2012, the contents of which are incorporated by reference in its entirety into the present disclosure.

[0002] Most homes, office buildings, stores, etc. are equipped with one or more smoke detectors. In the event of a fire, the smoke detectors are configured to detect smoke and sound an alarm. The alarm, which is generally a series of loud beeps or buzzes, is intended to alert individuals of the fire such that the individuals can evacuate the building. Unfortunately, with the use of smoke detectors, there are still many casualties every year caused by building fires and other hazardous conditions. Confusion in the face of an emergency, poor visibility, unfamiliarity with the building, etc. can all contribute to the inability of individuals to effectively evacuate a building. Further, in a smoke detector equipped building with multiple exits, individuals have no way of knowing which exit is safest in the event of a fire or other evacuation condition. As such, the inventors have perceived an intelligent evacuation system to help individuals successfully evacuate a building in the event of an evacuation condition.

[0003] An illustrative method includes receiving occupancy information from a node located in an area of a structure, where the occupancy information includes a number of individuals located in the area. An indication of an evacuation condition is received from the node. One or more evacuation routes are determined based at least in part on the occupancy information. An instruction is provided to the node to convey at least one of the one or more evacuation routes.

[0004] An illustrative node includes a transceiver and a processor operatively coupled to the transceiver. The transceiver is configured to receive occupancy information from a second node located in an area of a structure. The transceiver is also configured to receive an indication of an evacuation condition from the second node. The processor is configured to determine an evacuation route based at least in part on the occupancy information. The processor is further configured to cause the transceiver to provide an instruction to the second node to convey the evacuation route.

[0005] An illustrative system includes a first node and a second node. The first node includes a first processor, a first sensor operatively coupled to the first processor, a first occupancy unit operatively coupled to the first processor, a first transceiver operatively coupled to the first processor, and a first warning unit operatively coupled to the processor. The first sensor is configured to detect an evacuation condition. The first occupancy unit is configured to determine occupancy information. The first transceiver is configured to transmit an indication of the evacuation condition and the occupancy information to the second node. The second node includes a second transceiver and a second processor operatively coupled to the second transceiver. The second transceiver is configured to receive the indication of the evacuation condition and the occupancy information from the first node. The second processor is configured to determine one or more evacuation routes based at least in part on the occupancy information. The second processor is also configured to cause the second transceiver to provide an instruction to the first node to convey at least one of the one or more evacuation routes through the first warning unit.

[0006] Another illustrative method includes receiving, with a portable occupancy unit, a first signal using a first detector, where the first signal is indicative of an occupant in a structure. A second signal is received with the portable occupancy unit using a second detector. The second signal is indicative of the occupant in the structure. The first signal and the second signal are processed to determine whether the occupant is present in the structure. If it is determined that the occupant is present in the structure, an output is provided to convey that the occupant has been detected.

[0007] An illustrative portable occupancy unit includes a first detector, a second detector, a processor, and an output interface. The first detector is configured to detect a first signal, where the first signal is indicative of an occupant in a structure. The second detector is configured to detect a second signal, where the second signal is indicative of the occupant in the structure. The processor is configured to process the first signal and the second signal to determine whether the occupant is present in the structure. The output interface is configured to convey an output if the occupant is present in the structure.

[0008] An illustrative tangible computer-readable medium having computer-readable instructions stored thereon is also provided. If executed by a portable occupancy unit, the computer-executable instructions cause the portable occupancy unit to perform a method. The method includes receiving a first signal using a first detector, where the first signal is indicative of an occupant in a structure. A second signal is received using a second detector, where the second signal is indicative of the occupant in the structure. The first signal and the second signal are processed to determine whether the occupant is present in the structure. If it is determined that the occupant is present in the structure, an output is provided to convey that the occupant has been detected.

[0009] An illustrative method includes receiving, at a server, an indication of an evacuation condition from a sensory node located in a structure. The method also includes determining a severity of the evacuation condition. The method further includes adjusting a sensitivity of at least one sensory node in the structure based at least part on the severity of the evacuation condition.

[0010] An illustrative system server includes a memory configured to store an indication of an evacuation condition that is received from a sensory node located in a structure. The system server also includes a processor operatively coupled to the memory. The processor is configured to determine a severity of the evacuation condition. The processor is also configured to adjust a sensitivity of at least one sensory node in the structure based at least part on the severity of the evacuation condition.

[0011] An illustrative non-transitory computer-readable medium has computer-readable instructions stored thereon. The computer-readable instructions include instructions to store an indication of an evacuation condition that is received from a sensory node located in a structure. The computer-readable instructions also include instructions to determine a severity of the evacuation condition. The computer-readable instructions further include instructions to adjust a sensitivity of at least one sensory node in the structure based at least part on the severity of the evacuation condition.

[0012] An illustrative method includes receiving, at a server, sensed data from a sensor located in a structure, wherein the sensor is part of an evacuation system for the structure. The method also includes determining, based on the sensed data, whether a threshold relative to the sensed data has been exceeded. The method further includes providing a notification if it is determined that the threshold is exceeded.

[0013] An illustrative system server includes a memory configured to store sensed data received from a sensor located in a structure, wherein the sensor is part of an evacuation system for the structure. The system server also includes a processor operatively coupled to the memory and configured to determine, based on the sensed data, whether a threshold relative to the sensed data has been exceeded. The system server further includes a transmitter operatively coupled to the processor and configured to provide a notification if it is determined that the threshold is exceeded.

[0014] An illustrative non-transitory computer-readable medium has computer-readable instructions stored thereon. The computer-readable instructions include instructions to receive sensed data from a sensor located in a structure, wherein the sensor is part of an evacuation system for the structure. The computer-readable instructions also include instructions to determine, based on the sensed data, whether a threshold relative to the sensed data has been exceeded. The computer-readable instructions further include instructions to provide a notification if it is determined that the threshold is exceeded.

[0015] Other principal features and advantages will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the following drawings, the detailed description, and the appended claims.

[0025] Described herein are illustrative evacuation systems for use in assisting individuals with evacuation from a structure during an evacuation condition. An illustrative evacuation system can include one or more sensory nodes configured to detect and/or monitor occupancy and to detect the evacuation condition. Based on the type of evacuation condition, the magnitude (or severity) of the evacuation condition, the location of the sensory node which detected the evacuation condition, the occupancy information, and/or other factors, the evacuation system can determine one or more evacuation routes such that individuals are able to safely evacuate the structure. The one or more evacuation routes can be conveyed to the individuals in the structure through one or more spoken audible evacuation messages. The evacuation system can also contact an emergency response center in response to the evacuation condition.

[0026] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an evacuation system 100 in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In alternative embodiments, evacuation system 100 may include additional, fewer, and/or different components. Evacuation system 100 includes a sensory node 105, a sensory node 110, a sensory node 115, and a sensory node 120. In alternative embodiments, additional or fewer sensory nodes may be included. Evacuation system 100 also includes a decision node 125 and a decision node 130. Alternatively, additional or fewer decision nodes may be included.

[0027] In an illustrative embodiment, sensory nodes 105, 110, 115, and 120 can be configured to detect an evacuation condition. The evacuation condition can be a fire, which may be detected by the presence of smoke and/or excessive heat. The evacuation condition may also be an unacceptable level of a toxic gas such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, etc. Sensory nodes 105, 110, 115, and 120 can be distributed throughout a structure. The structure can be a home, an office building, a commercial space, a store, a factory, or any other building or structure. As an example, a single story office building can have one or more sensory nodes in each office, each bathroom, each common area, etc. An illustrative sensory node is described in more detail with reference to FIG. 2.

[0028] Sensory nodes 105, 110, 115, and 120 can also be configured to detect and/or monitor occupancy such that evacuation system 100 can determine one or more optimal evacuation routes. For example, sensory node 105 may be placed in a conference room of a hotel. Using occupancy detection, sensory node 105 can know that there are approximately 80 individuals in the conference room at the time of an evacuation condition. Evacuation system 100 can use this occupancy information (i.e., the number of individuals and/or the location of the individuals) to determine the evacuation route(s). For example, evacuation system 100 may attempt to determine at least two safe evacuation routes from the conference room to avoid congestion that may occur if only a single evacuation route is designated. Occupancy detection and monitoring are described in more detail with reference to FIG. 2.

[0029] Decision nodes 125 and 130 can be configured to determine one or more evacuation routes upon detection of an evacuation condition. Decision nodes 125 and 130 can determine the one or more evacuation routes based on occupancy information such as a present occupancy or an occupancy pattern of a given area, the type of evacuation condition, the magnitude of the evacuation condition, the location(s) at which the evacuation condition is detected, the layout of the structure, etc. The occupancy pattern can be learned over time as the nodes monitor areas during quiescent conditions. Upon determination of the one or more evacuation routes, decision nodes 125 and 130 and/or sensory nodes 105, 110, 115, and 120 can convey the evacuation route(s) to the individuals in the structure. In an illustrative embodiment, the evacuation route(s) can be conveyed as audible voice evacuation messages through speakers of decision nodes 125 and 130 and/or sensory nodes 105, 110, 115, and 120. Alternatively, the evacuation route(s) can be conveyed by any other method. An illustrative decision node is described in more detail with reference to FIG. 3.

[0030] Sensory nodes 105, 110, 115, and 120 can communicate with decision nodes 125 and 130 through a network 135. Network 135 can include a short-range communication network such as a Bluetooth network, a Zigbee network, etc. Network 135 can also include a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a telecommunications network, the Internet, a public switched telephone network (PSTN), and/or any other type of communication network known to those of skill in the art. Network 135 can be a distributed intelligent network such that evacuation system 100 can make decisions based on sensory input from any nodes in the population of nodes. In an illustrative embodiment, decision nodes 125 and 130 can communicate with sensory nodes 105, 110, 115, and 120 through a short-range communication network. Decision nodes 125 and 130 can also communicate with an emergency response center 140 through a telecommunications network, the Internet, a PSTN, etc. As such, in the event of an evacuation condition, emergency response center 140 can be automatically notified. Emergency response center 140 can be a 911 call center, a fire department, a police department, etc.

[0031] In the event of an evacuation condition, a sensory node that detected the evacuation condition can provide an indication of the evacuation condition to decision node 125 and/or decision node 130. The indication can include an identification and/or location of the sensory node, a type of the evacuation condition, and/or a magnitude of the evacuation condition. The magnitude of the evacuation condition can include an amount of smoke generated by a fire, an amount of heat generated by a fire, an amount of toxic gas in the air, etc. The indication of the evacuation condition can be used by decision node 125 and/or decision node 130 to determine evacuation routes. Determination of an evacuation route is described in more detail with reference to FIG. 4.

[0032] In an illustrative embodiment, sensory nodes 105, 110, 115, and 120 can also periodically provide status information to decision node 125 and/or decision node 130. The status information can include an identification of the sensory node, location information corresponding to the sensory node, information regarding battery life, and/or information regarding whether the sensory node is functioning properly. As such, decision nodes 125 and 130 can be used as a diagnostic tool to alert a system administrator or other user of any problems with sensory nodes 105, 110, 115, and 120. Decision nodes 125 and 130 can also communicate status information to one another for diagnostic purposes. The system administrator can also be alerted if any of the nodes of evacuation system 100 fail to timely provide status information according to a periodic schedule. In one embodiment, a detected failure or problem within evacuation system 100 can be communicated to the system administrator or other user via a text message or an e-mail.

[0033] In one embodiment, network 135 can include a redundant (or self-healing) mesh network centered around sensory nodes 105, 110, 115, and 120 and decision nodes 125 and 130. As such, sensory nodes 105, 110, 115, and 120 can communicate directly with decision nodes 125 and 130, or indirectly through other sensory nodes. As an example, sensory node 105 can provide status information directly to decision node 125. Alternatively, sensory node 105 can provide the status information to sensory node 115, sensory node 115 can provide the status information (relative to sensory node 105) to sensory node 120, and sensory node 120 can provide the status information (relative to sensory node 105) to decision node 125. The redundant mesh network can be dynamic such that communication routes can be determined on the fly in the event of a malfunctioning node. As such, in the example above, if sensory node 120 is down, sensory node 115 can automatically provide the status information (relative to sensory node 105) directly to decision node 125 or to sensory node 110 for provision to decision node 125. Similarly, if decision node 125 is down, sensory nodes 105, 110, 115, and 120 can be configured to convey status information directly or indirectly to decision node 130. The redundant mesh network can also be static such that communication routes are predetermined in the event of one or more malfunctioning nodes. Network 135 can receive/transmit messages over a large range as compared to the actual wireless range of individual nodes. Network 135 can also receive/transmit messages through various wireless obstacles by utilizing the mesh network capability of evacuation system 100. As an example, a message destined from an origin of node A to a distant destination of node Z (i.e., where node A and node Z are not in direct range of one another) may use any of the nodes between node A and node Z to convey the information. In one embodiment, the mesh network can operate within the 2.4 GHz range. Alternatively, any other range(s) may be used.

[0034] In an illustrative embodiment, each of sensory nodes 105, 110, 115, and 120 and/or each of decision nodes 125 and 130 can know its location. The location can be global positioning system (GPS) coordinates. In one embodiment, a computing device 145 can be used to upload the location to sensory nodes 105, 110, 115, and 120 and/or decision nodes 125 and 130. Computing device 145 can be a portable GPS system, a cellular device, a laptop computer, or any other type of communication device configured to convey the location. As an example, computing device 145 can be a GPS-enabled laptop computer. During setup and installation of evacuation system 100, a technician can place the GPS-enabled laptop computer proximate to sensory node 105. The GPS-enabled laptop computer can determine its current GPS coordinates, and the GPS coordinates can be uploaded to sensory node 105. The GPS coordinates can be uploaded to sensory node 105 wirelessly through network 135 or through a wired connection. Alternatively, the GPS coordinates can be manually entered through a user interface of sensory node 105. The GPS coordinates can similarly be uploaded to sensory nodes 110, 115, and 120 and decision nodes 125 and 130. In one embodiment, sensory nodes 105, 110, 115, and 120 and/or decision nodes 125 and 130 may be GPS-enabled for determining their respective locations. In one embodiment, each node can have a unique identification number or tag, which may be programmed during the manufacturing of the node. The identification can be used to match the GPS coordinates to the node during installation. Computing device 145 can use the identification information to obtain a one-to-one connection with the node to correctly program the GPS coordinates over network 135. In an alternative embodiment, GPS coordinates may not be used, and the location can be in terms of position with a particular structure. For example, sensory node 105 may be located in room five on the third floor of a hotel, and this information can be the location information for sensory node 105. Regardless of how the locations are represented, evacuation system 100 can determine the evacuation route(s) based at least in part on the locations and a known layout of the structure.

[0035] In one embodiment, a zeroing and calibration method may be employed to improve the accuracy of the indoor GPS positioning information programmed into the nodes during installation. Inaccuracies in GPS coordinates can occur due to changes in the atmosphere, signal delay, the number of viewable satellites, etc., and the expected accuracy of GPS is usually about 6 meters. To calibrate the nodes and improve location accuracy, a relative coordinated distance between nodes can be recorded as opposed to a direct GPS coordinate. Further improvements can be made by averaging multiple GPS location coordinates at each perspective node over a given period (i.e., 5 minutes, etc.) during evacuation system 100 configuration. At least one node can be designated as a zeroing coordinate location. All other measurements can be made with respect to the zeroing coordinate location. In one embodiment, the accuracy of GPS coordinates can further be improved by using an enhanced GPS location band such as the military P(Y) GPS location band. Alternatively, any other GPS location band may be used.

[0036] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a sensory node 200 in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In alternative embodiments, sensory node 200 may include additional, fewer, and/or different components. Sensory node 200 includes sensor(s) 205, a power source 210, a memory 215, a user interface 220, an occupancy unit 225, a transceiver 230, a warning unit 235, and a processor 240. Sensor(s) 205 can include a smoke detector, a heat sensor, a carbon monoxide sensor, a nitrogen dioxide sensor, and/or any other type of hazardous condition sensor known to those of skill in the art. In an illustrative embodiment, power source 210 can be a battery. Sensory node 200 can also be hard-wired to the structure such that power is received from the power supply of the structure (i.e., utility grid, generator, solar cell, fuel cell, etc.). In such an embodiment, power source 210 can also include a battery for backup during power outages.

[0037] Memory 215 can be configured to store identification information corresponding to sensory node 200. The identification information can be any indication through which other sensory nodes and decision nodes are able to identify sensory node 200. Memory 215 can also be used to store location information corresponding to sensory node 200. The location information can include global positioning system (GPS) coordinates, position within a structure, or any other information which can be used by other sensory nodes and/or decision nodes to determine the location of sensory node 200. In one embodiment, the location information may be used as the identification information. The location information can be received from computing device 145 described with reference to FIG. 1, or from any other source. Memory 215 can further be used to store routing information for a mesh network in which sensory node 200 is located such that sensory node 200 is able to forward information to appropriate nodes during normal operation and in the event of one or more malfunctioning nodes. Memory 215 can also be used to store occupancy information and/or one or more evacuation messages to be conveyed in the event of an evacuation condition. Memory 215 can further be used for storing adaptive occupancy pattern recognition algorithms and for storing compiled occupancy patterns.

[0038] User interface 220 can be used by a system administrator or other user to program and/or test sensory node 200. User interface 220 can include one or more controls, a liquid crystal display (LCD) or other display for conveying information, one or more speakers for conveying information, etc. In one embodiment, a user can utilize user interface 220 to record an evacuation message to be played back in the event of an evacuation condition. As an example, sensory node 200 can be located in a bedroom of a small child. A parent of the child can record an evacuation message for the child in a calm, soothing voice such that the child does not panic in the event of an evacuation condition. An example evacuation message can be “wake up Kristin, there is a fire, go out the back door and meet us in the back yard as we have practiced.” Different evacuation messages may be recorded for different evacuation conditions. Different evacuation messages may also be recorded based on factors such as the location at which the evacuation condition is detected. As an example, if a fire is detected by any of sensory nodes one through six, a first pre-recorded evacuation message can be played (i.e., exit through the back door), and if the fire is detected at any of nodes seven through twelve, a second pre-recorded evacuation message can be played (i.e., exit through the front door). User interface 220 can also be used to upload location information to sensory node 200, to test sensory node 200 to ensure that sensory node 200 is functional, to adjust a volume level of sensory node 200, to silence sensory node 200, etc. User interface 220 can also be used to alert a user of a problem with sensory node 200 such as low battery power or a malfunction. In one embodiment, user interface 220 can be used to record a personalized message in the event of low battery power, battery malfunction, or other problem. For example, if the device is located within a home structure, the pre-recorded message may indicate that “the evacuation detector in the hallway has low battery power, please change.” User interface 220 can further include a button such that a user can report an evacuation condition and activate the evacuation system.

[0039] Occupancy unit 225 can be used to detect and/or monitor occupancy of a structure. As an example, occupancy unit 225 can detect whether one or more individuals are in a given room or area of a structure. A decision node can use this occupancy information to determine an appropriate evacuation route or routes. As an example, if it is known that two individuals are in a given room, a single evacuation route can be used. However, if three hundred individuals are in the room, multiple evacuation routes may be provided to prevent congestion. Occupancy unit 225 can also be used to monitor occupancy patterns. As an example, occupancy unit 225 can determine that there are generally numerous individuals in a given room or location between the hours of 8:00 am and 6:00 pm on Mondays through Fridays, and that there are few or no individuals present at other times. A decision node can use this information to determine appropriate evacuation route(s). Information determined by occupancy unit 225 can also be used to help emergency responders in responding to the evacuation condition. For example, it may be known that one individual is in a given room of the structure. The emergency responders can use this occupancy information to focus their efforts on getting the individual out of the room. The occupancy information can be provided to an emergency response center along with a location and type of the evacuation condition. Occupancy unit 225 can also be used to help sort rescue priorities based at least in part on the occupancy information while emergency responders are on route to the structure.

[0040] Occupancy unit 225 can detect/monitor the occupancy using one or more motion detectors to detect movement. Occupancy unit 225 can also use a video or still camera and video/image analysis to determine the occupancy. Occupancy unit 225 can also use respiration detection by detecting carbon dioxide gas emitted as a result of breathing. An example high sensitivity carbon dioxide detector for use in respiration detection can be the MG-811 CO2 sensor manufactured by Henan Hanwei Electronics Co., Ltd. based in Zhengzhou, China. Alternatively, any other high sensitivity carbon dioxide sensor may be used. Occupancy unit 225 can also be configured to detect methane, or any other gas which may be associated with human presence.

[0041] Occupancy unit 225 can also use infrared sensors to detect heat emitted by individuals. In one embodiment, a plurality of infrared sensors can be used to provide multidirectional monitoring. Alternatively, a single infrared sensor can be used to scan an entire area. The infrared sensor(s) can be combined with a thermal imaging unit to identify thermal patterns and to determine whether detected occupants are human, feline, canine, rodent, etc. The infrared sensors can also be used to determine if occupants are moving or still, to track the direction of occupant traffic, to track the speed of occupant traffic, to track the volume of occupant traffic, etc. This information can be used to alert emergency responders to a panic situation, or to a large captive body of individuals. Activities occurring prior to an evacuation condition can be sensed by the infrared sensors and recorded by the evacuation system. As such, suspicious behavioral movements occurring prior to an evacuation condition can be sensed and recorded. For example, if the evacuation condition was maliciously caused, the recorded information from the infrared sensors can be used to determine how quickly the area was vacated immediately prior to the evacuation condition. Infrared sensor based occupancy detection is described in more detail in an article titled “Development of Infrared Human Sensor” in the Matsushita Electric Works (MEW) Sustainability Report 2004, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0042] Occupancy unit 225 can also use audio detection to identify noises associated with occupants such as snoring, respiration, heartbeat, voices, etc. The audio detection can be implemented using a high sensitivity microphone which is capable of detecting a heartbeat, respiration, etc. from across a room. Any high sensitivity microphone known to those of skill in the art may be used. Upon detection of a sound, occupancy unit 225 can utilize pattern recognition to identify the sound as speech, a heartbeat, respiration, snoring, etc. Occupancy unit 225 can similarly utilize voice recognition and/or pitch tone recognition to distinguish human and non-human occupants and/or to distinguish between different human occupants. As such, emergency responders can be informed whether an occupant is a baby, a small child, an adult, a dog, etc. Occupancy unit 225 can also detect occupants using scent detection. An example sensor for detecting scent is described in an article by Jacqueline Mitchell titled “Picking Up the Scent” and appearing in the August 2008 Tufts Journal, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0043] In an alternative embodiment, sensory node 200 (and/or decision node 300 described with reference to FIG. 3) can be configured to broadcast occupancy information. In such an embodiment, emergency response personnel can be equipped with a portable receiver configured to receive the broadcasted occupancy information such that the responder knows where any humans are located with the structure. The occupancy information can also be broadcast to any other type of receiver. The occupancy information can be used to help rescue individuals in the event of a fire or other evacuation condition. The occupancy information can also be used in the event of a kidnapping or hostage situation to identify the number of victims involved, the number of perpetrators involved, the locations of the victims and/or perpetrators, etc.

[0044] Transceiver 230 can include a transmitter for transmitting information and/or a receiver for receiving information. As an example, transceiver 230 of sensory node 200 can receive status information, occupancy information, evacuation condition information, etc. from a first sensory node and forward the information to a second sensory node or to a decision node. Transceiver 230 can also be used to transmit information corresponding to sensory node 200 to another sensory node or a decision node. For example, transceiver 230 can periodically transmit occupancy information to a decision node such that the decision node has the occupancy information in the event of an evacuation condition. Alternatively, transceiver 230 can be used to transmit the occupancy information to the decision node along with an indication of the evacuation condition. Transceiver 230 can also be used to receive instructions regarding appropriate evacuation routes and/or the evacuation routes from a decision node. Alternatively, the evacuation routes can be stored in memory 215 and transceiver 230 may only receive an indication of which evacuation route to convey.

[0045] Warning unit 235 can include a speaker and/or a display for conveying an evacuation route or routes. The speaker can be used to play an audible voice evacuation message. The evacuation message can be conveyed in one or multiple languages, depending on the embodiment. If multiple evacuation routes are used based on occupancy information or the fact that numerous safe evacuation routes exist, the evacuation message can include the multiple evacuation routes in the alternative. For example, the evacuation message may state “please exit to the left through stairwell A, or to the right through stairwell B.” The display of warning unit 235 can be used to convey the evacuation message in textual form for deaf individuals or individuals with poor hearing. Warning unit 235 can further include one or more lights to indicate that an evacuation condition has been detected and/or to illuminate at least a portion of an evacuation route. In the event of an evacuation condition, warning unit 235 can be configured to repeat the evacuation message(s) until a stop evacuation message instruction is received from a decision node, until the evacuation system is reset or muted by a system administrator or other user, or until sensory node 200 malfunctions due to excessive heat, etc. Warning unit 235 can also be used to convey a status message such as “smoke detected in room thirty-five on the third floor.” The status message can be played one or more times in between the evacuation message. In an alternative embodiment, sensory node 200 may not include warning unit 235, and the evacuation route(s) may be conveyed only by decision nodes. The evacuation condition may be detected by sensory node 200, or by any other node in direct or indirect communication with sensory node 200.

[0046] Processor 240 can be operatively coupled to each of the components of sensory node 200, and can be configured to control interaction between the components. For example, if an evacuation condition is detected by sensor(s) 205, processor 240 can cause transceiver 230 to transmit an indication of the evacuation condition to a decision node. In response, transceiver 230 can receive an instruction from the decision node regarding an appropriate evacuation message to convey. Processor 240 can interpret the instruction, obtain the appropriate evacuation message from memory 215, and cause warning unit 235 to convey the obtained evacuation message. Processor 240 can also receive inputs from user interface 220 and take appropriate action. Processor 240 can further be used to process, store, and/or transmit occupancy information obtained through occupancy unit 225. Processor 240 can further be coupled to power source 210 and used to detect and indicate a power failure or low battery condition. In one embodiment, processor 240 can also receive manually generated alarm inputs from a user through user interface 220. As an example, if a fire is accidently started in a room of a structure, a user may press an alarm activation button on user interface 220, thereby signaling an evacuation condition and activating warning unit 235. In such an embodiment, in the case of accidental alarm activation, sensory node 200 may inform the user that he/she can press the alarm activation button a second time to disable the alarm. After a predetermined period of time (i.e., 5 seconds, 10 seconds, 30 seconds, etc.), the evacuation condition may be conveyed to other nodes and/or an emergency response center through the network.

[0047] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a decision node 300 in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In alternative embodiments, decision node 300 may include additional, fewer, and/or different components. Decision node 300 includes a power source 305, a memory 310, a user interface 315, a transceiver 320, a warning unit 325, and a processor 330. In one embodiment, decision node 300 can also include sensor(s) and/or an occupancy unit as described with reference to sensory unit 200 of FIG. 2. In an illustrative embodiment, power source 305 can be the same or similar to power source 210 described with reference to FIG. 2. Similarly, user interface 315 can be the same or similar to user interface 220 described with reference to FIG. 2, and warning unit 325 can be the same or similar to warning unit 235 described with reference to FIG. 2.

[0048] Memory 310 can be configured to store a layout of the structure(s) in which the evacuation system is located, information regarding the locations of sensory nodes and other decision nodes, information regarding how to contact an emergency response center, occupancy information, occupancy detection and monitoring algorithms, and/or an algorithm for determining an appropriate evacuation route. Transceiver 320, which can be similar to transceiver 230 described with reference to FIG. 2, can be configured to receive information from sensory nodes and other decision nodes and to transmit evacuation routes to sensory nodes and/or other decision nodes. Processor 330 can be operatively coupled to each of the components of decision node 300, and can be configured to control interaction between the components.

[0049] In one embodiment, decision node 300 can be an exit sign including an EXIT display in addition to the components described with reference to FIG. 3. As such, decision node 300 can be located proximate an exit of a structure, and warning unit 325 can direct individuals toward or away from the exit depending on the identified evacuation route(s). In an alternative embodiment, all nodes of the evacuation system may be identical such that there is not a distinction between sensory nodes and decision nodes. In such an embodiment, all of the nodes can have sensor(s), an occupancy unit, decision-making capability, etc.

[0050] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram illustrating operations performed by an evacuation system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In alternative embodiments, additional, fewer, and/or different operations may be performed. Further, the use of a flow diagram is not meant to be limiting with respect to the order of operations performed. Any of the operations described with reference to FIG. 4 can be performed by one or more sensory nodes and/or by one or more decision nodes. In an operation 400, occupancy information is identified. The occupancy information can include information regarding a number of individuals present at a given location at a given time (i.e., current information). The occupancy information can also include occupancy patterns based on long term monitoring of the location. The occupancy information can be identified using occupancy unit 225 described with reference to FIG. 2 and/or by any other methods known to those of skill in the art. The occupancy information can be specific to a given node, and can be determined by sensory nodes and/or decision nodes.

[0051] In an operation 405, an evacuation condition is identified. The evacuation condition can be identified by a sensor associated with a sensory node and/or a decision node. The evacuation condition can result from the detection of smoke, heat, toxic gas, etc. A decision node can receive an indication of the evacuation condition from a sensory node or other decision node. Alternatively, the decision node may detect the evacuation condition using one or more sensors. The indication of the evacuation condition can identify the type of evacuation condition detected and/or a magnitude or severity of the evacuation condition. As an example, the indication of the evacuation condition may indicate that a high concentration of carbon monoxide gas was detected.

[0052] In an operation 410, location(s) of the evacuation condition are identified. The location(s) can be identified based on the identity of the node(s) which detected the evacuation condition. For example, the evacuation condition may be detected by node A. Node A can transmit an indication of the evacuation condition to a decision node B along with information identifying the transmitter as node A. Decision node B can know the coordinates or position of node A and use this information in determining an appropriate evacuation route. Alternatively, node A can transmit its location (i.e., coordinates or position) along with the indication of the evacuation condition.

[0053] In an operation 415, one or more evacuation routes are determined. In an illustrative embodiment, the one or more evacuation routes can be determined based at least in part on a layout of the structure, the occupancy information, the type of evacuation condition, the severity of the evacuation condition, and/or the location(s) of the evacuation condition. In an illustrative embodiment, a first decision node to receive an indication of the evacuation condition or to detect the evacuation condition can be used to determine the evacuation route(s). In such an embodiment, the first decision node to receive the indication can inform any other decision nodes that the first decision node is determining the evacuation route(s), and the other decision nodes can be configured to wait for the evacuation route(s) from the first decision node. Alternatively, multiple decision nodes can simultaneously determine the evacuation route(s) and each decision node can be configured to convey the evacuation route(s) to a subset of sensory nodes. Alternatively, multiple decision nodes can simultaneously determine the evacuation route(s) for redundancy in case any one of the decision nodes malfunctions due to the evacuation condition. In one embodiment, each decision node can be responsible for a predetermined portion of the structure and can be configured to determine evacuation route(s) for that predetermined portion or area. For example, a first decision node can be configured to determine evacuation route(s) for evacuating a first floor of the structure, a second decision node can be configured to determine evacuation route(s) for evacuating a second floor of the structure, and so on. In such an embodiment, the decision nodes can communicate with one another such that each of the evacuation route(s) is based at least in part on the other evacuation route(s).

[0054] As indicated above, the one or more evacuation routes can be determined based at least in part on the occupancy information. As an example, the occupancy information may indicate that approximately 50 people are located in a conference room in the east wing on the fifth floor of a structure and that 10 people are dispersed throughout the third floor of the structure. The east wing of the structure can include an east stairwell that is rated for supporting the evacuation of 100 people. If there are no other large groups of individuals to be directed through the east stairwell and the east stairwell is otherwise safe, the evacuation route can direct the 50 people toward the east stairwell, down the stairs to a first floor lobby, and out of the lobby through a front door of the structure. In order to prevent congestion on the east stairwell, the evacuation route can direct the 10 people from the third floor of the structure to evacuate through a west stairwell assuming that the west stairwell is otherwise safe and uncongested. As another example, the occupancy information can be used to designate multiple evacuation routes based on the number of people known to be in a given area and/or the number of people expected to be in a given area based on historical occupancy patterns.

[0055] The one or more evacuation routes can also be determined based at least in part on the type of evacuation condition. For example, in the event of a fire, all evacuation routes can utilize stairwells, doors, windows, etc. However, if a toxic gas such as nitrogen dioxide is detected, the evacuation routes may utilize one or more elevators in addition to stairwells, doors, windows, etc. For example, nitrogen dioxide may be detected on floors 80-100 of a building. In such a situation, elevators may be the best evacuation option for individuals located on floors 90-100 to evacuate. Individuals on floors 80-89 can be evacuated using a stairwell and/or elevators, and individuals on floors 2-79 can be evacuated via the stairwell. In an alternative embodiment, elevators may not be used as part of an evacuation route. In one embodiment, not all evacuation conditions may result in an entire evacuation of the structure. An evacuation condition that can be geographically contained may result in a partial evacuation of the structure. For example, nitrogen dioxide may be detected in a room on the ground floor with an open window, where the nitrogen dioxide is due to an idling vehicle proximate the window. The evacuation system may evacuate only the room in which the nitrogen dioxide was detected. As such, the type and/or severity of the evacuation condition can dictate not only the evacuation route, but also the area to be evacuated.

[0056] The one or more evacuation routes can also be determined based at least in part on the severity of the evacuation condition. As an example, heat may be detected in the east stairwell and the west stairwell of a structure having only the two stairwells. The heat detected in the east stairwell may be 120 degrees Fahrenheit (F) and the heat detected in the west stairwell may be 250 degrees F. In such a situation, if no other options are available, the evacuation routes can utilize the east stairwell. The concentration of a detected toxic gas can similarly be used to determine the evacuation routes. The one or more evacuation routes can further be determined based at least in part on the location(s) of the evacuation condition. As an example, the evacuation condition can be identified by nodes located on floors 6 and 7 of a structure and near the north stairwell of the structure. As such, the evacuation route for individuals located on floors 2-5 can utilize the north stairwell of the structure, and the evacuation route for individuals located on floors 6 and higher can utilize a south stairwell of the structure.

[0057] In an operation 420, the one or more evacuation routes are conveyed. In an illustrative embodiment, the one or more evacuation routes can be conveyed by warning units of nodes such as warning unit 235 described with reference to FIG. 2 and warning unit 325 described with reference to FIG. 3. In an illustrative embodiment, each node can convey one or more designated evacuation routes, and each node may convey different evacuation route(s). Similarly, multiple nodes may all convey the same evacuation route(s). In an operation 425, an emergency response center is contacted. The evacuation system can automatically provide the emergency response center with occupancy information, a type of the evacuation condition, a severity of the evacuation condition, and/or the location(s) of the evacuation condition. As such, emergency responders can be dispatched immediately. The emergency responders can also use the information to prepare for the evacuation condition and respond effectively to the evacuation condition.

[0058] In one embodiment, occupancy unit 225 of FIG. 2 can also be implemented as and/or used in conjunction with a portable, handheld occupancy unit. The portable occupancy unit can be configured to detect human presence using audible sound detection, infrared detection, respiration detection, motion detection, scent detection, etc. as described above, and/or ultrasonic detection. Firefighters, paramedics, police, etc. can utilize the portable occupancy unit to determine whether any human is present in a room with limited or no visibility. As such, the emergency responders can quickly scan rooms and other areas without expending the time to fully enter the room and perform an exhaustive manual search.

[0059] FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a portable occupancy unit 500 in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In one embodiment, portable occupancy unit 500 can be implemented as a wand having sensors on one end, a handle on the other end, and a display in between the sensors and the handle. Alternatively, any other configuration may be used. For example, as described in more detail below, at least a portion of portable occupancy unit 500 may be incorporated into an emergency response suit.

[0060] Portable occupancy unit 500 includes a gas detector 502, a microphone detector 504, an infrared detector 506, a scent detector 508, an ultrasonic detection system 510, a processor 512, a memory 514, a user interface 516, an output interface 518, a power source 520, a transceiver 522, and a global positioning system (GPS) unit 524. In alternative embodiments, portable occupancy unit 500 may include fewer, additional, and/or different components. In one embodiment, portable occupancy unit 500 can be made from fire retardant materials and/or other materials with a high melting point or heat tolerance in the event that portable occupancy unit 500 is used at the site of a fire. Alternatively, any other materials may be used to construct portable occupancy unit 500. Gas detector 502, microphone detector 504, infrared detector 506, and scent detector 508 can be used to detect occupancy as described above with reference to occupancy unit 225 of FIG. 2.

[0061] Ultrasonic detection system 510 can be configured to detect human presence using ultrasonic wave detection. In one embodiment, ultrasonic detection system 510 can include a wave generator and a wave detector. The wave generator can emit ultrasonic waves into a room or other structure. The ultrasonic waves can reflect off of the walls of the room or other structure. The wave detector can receive and examine the reflected ultrasonic waves to determine whether there is a frequency shift in the reflected ultrasonic waves with respect to the originally generated ultrasonic waves. Any frequency shift in the reflected ultrasonic waves can be caused by movement of a person or object within the structure. As such, an identified frequency shift can be used to determine whether the structure is occupied. Alternatively, processor 512 may be used to identify frequency shifts in the reflected ultrasonic waves. In one embodiment, occupancy unit 225 described with reference to FIG. 2 can also include an ultrasonic detection system.

[0062] Processor 512 can be used to process detected signals received from gas detector 502, microphone detector 504, infrared detector 506, scent detector 508, and/or ultrasonic detection system 510. In an illustrative embodiment, processor 512 can utilize one or more signal acquisition circuits (not shown) and/or one or more algorithms to process the detected signals and determine occupancy data. In one embodiment, processor 512 can utilize the one or more algorithms to determine a likelihood that an occupant is present in a structure. For example, if the detected signals are low, weak, or contain noise, processor 512 may determine that there is a low likelihood that an occupant is present. The likelihood can be conveyed to a user of portable occupancy unit 500 as a percentage, a description (i.e., low, medium, high), etc. Alternatively, processor 512 can determine the likelihood that an occupant is present and compare the likelihood to a predetermined threshold. If the likelihood exceeds the threshold, portable occupancy unit 500 can alert the user to the potential presence of an occupant. If the determined likelihood does not exceed the threshold, portable occupancy unit 500 may not alert the user.

[0063] In an illustrative embodiment, processor 512 can determine whether occupants are present based on the combined input from each of gas detector 502, microphone detector 504, infrared detector 506, scent detector 508, and/or ultrasonic detection system 510. In an illustrative embodiment, the one or more algorithms used by processor 512 to determine occupancy can be weighted based on the type of sensor(s) that identify an occupant, the number of sensors that identify the occupant, and/or the likelihood of occupancy corresponding to each of the sensor(s) that identified the occupant. As an example, detection by ultrasonic detection system 510 (or any of the other detectors) may be given more weight than detection by scent detector 508 (or any of the other detectors). As another example, processor 512 may increase the likelihood of occupancy as the number of detectors that detected any sign of occupancy increases. Processor 512 can also determine the likelihood of occupancy based on the likelihood corresponding to each individual sensor. For example, if all of the detectors detect occupancy with a low likelihood of accuracy, the overall likelihood of a present occupant may be low. In one embodiment, any sign of occupancy by any of the sensors can cause processor 512 to alert the user. Similarly, processor 512 can provide the user with information such as the overall likelihood of occupancy, the likelihood associated with each sensor, the number of sensors that detected occupancy, the type of sensors that detected occupancy, etc. such that the user can make an informed decision.

[0064] Processor 512 can also be used to monitor and track the use of portable occupancy unit 500 such that a report can be created, stored, and/or conveyed to a recipient. As an example, the report can include a time, location, and likelihood of occupancy for each potential occupant that is identified by portable occupancy unit 500. The report can also include any commands received from the user of portable occupancy unit 500, any information received from outside sources and conveyed to the user through portable occupancy unit 500, etc. The report can be stored in memory 514. The report can also be conveyed to an emergency response center, other emergency responders, etc. via transceiver 522.

[0065] In addition to informing a user of whether an occupant is detected and/or a likelihood that the detection is accurate, portable occupancy unit 500 can also inform the user whether a detected occupant is a human or an animal (i.e., dog, cat, rat, etc.) using infrared pattern analysis based on information received from infrared detector 506 and/or audible sound analysis based on information received from microphone detector 504. Portable occupancy unit 500 can also use detected information and pattern analysis to determine and convey a number of persons or animals detected and/or whether detected persons are moving, stationary, sleeping, etc. In one embodiment, portable occupancy unit 500 can also use temperature detection through infrared detector 506 and/or any of the other detection methods to help determine and convey whether a detected occupant is dead or alive.

[0066] In one embodiment, a separate signal acquisition circuit can be used to detect/receive signals for each of gas detector 502, microphone detector 504, infrared detector 506, scent detector 508, and ultrasonic detection system 510. Alternatively, one or more combined signal acquisition circuits may be used. Similarly, a separate algorithm can be used to process signals detected from each of gas detector 502, microphone detector 504, infrared detector 506, scent detector 508, and ultrasonic detection system 510. Alternatively, one or more combined algorithms may be used.

[0067] The one or more algorithms used by processor 512 can include computer-readable instructions and can be stored in memory 514. Memory 514 can also be used to store present occupancy information, a layout or map of a structure, occupancy pattern information, etc. User interface 516 can be used to receive inputs from a user for programming and use of portable occupancy unit 500. In one embodiment, user interface 516 can include voice recognition capability for receiving audible commands from the user. Output interface 518 can include a display, one or more speakers, and/or any other components through which portable occupancy unit 500 can convey an output regarding whether occupants are detected, etc. Power source 520 can be a battery and/or any other source for powering portable occupancy unit 500.

[0068] Transceiver 522 can be used to communicate with occupancy unit 225 and/or any other source. As such, portable occupancy unit 500 can receive present occupancy information and/or occupancy pattern information from occupancy unit 225. Portable occupancy unit 500 can use the present occupancy information and/or occupancy pattern information to help determine a likelihood that one or more humans is present in a given area. For example, the occupancy pattern information may indicate that there is generally a large number of people in a given area at a given time. If used in the given area at or near the given time, the occupancy detection algorithms used by portable occupancy unit 500 may be adjusted such that any indication of occupancy is more likely to be attributed to human occupancy. The present occupancy information can be similarly utilized. Transceiver 522 can also be used to receive information regarding the type of evacuation condition, a location of the evacuation condition, a temperature at a given location, a toxic gas concentration at a given location, etc. The information, which can be received from the evacuation system, an emergency response center, and/or any other source, can be used by the user to identify high risk areas, to identify an optimal route to a given location, etc.

[0069] Transceiver 522 can also include short range communication capability such as Bluetooth, Zigbee, etc. for conveying information to a user that is wearing a firefighter suit or other emergency responder suit. For example, transceiver 522 can convey information regarding a detected occupant to an earpiece of the user and/or for conveyance through a speaker or display screen built into a helmet of the suit worn by the user. Transceiver 522 can also receive information from a transmitter incorporated into the suit worn by the user. For example, the transmitter incorporated into the suit can transmit voice or other commands to transceiver 522 of portable occupancy unit 500. As such, the user can control portable occupancy unit 500 while wearing bulky fire retardant gloves and/or other protective equipment.

[0070] Global positioning system (GPS) unit 524 can be configured to direct a user of portable occupancy unit 500 to a known location of an occupant using output interface 518. The known location can be received from occupancy unit 225, from an emergency response center, and/or from any other source. In an alternative embodiment, portable occupancy unit 500 can receive verbal and/or textual directions to a known location of an occupant. The verbal and/or textual directions can be received from occupancy unit 225, from the emergency response center, and/or from any other source. The verbal and/or textual directions can be conveyed to a user through output interface 518.

[0071] Global positioning system unit 524 can also be used to determine a current location of portable occupancy unit 500 for conveyance to an emergency response center, other portable occupancy units, occupancy unit 225, other computing devices, etc. The current location can be conveyed by transceiver 522. The current location can be used to determine a location of a user of portable occupancy unit 500, to tag a located occupant, to tag a potential source of a fire or other evacuation condition, etc. As an example, a user of portable occupancy unit 500 may locate an occupant in a room in which the occupant is not in immediate danger. The user can tag the room using GPS unit 524 and convey the location to an emergency responder such that the emergency responder can find the occupant and lead him/her safely out of the structure. As such, the user of portable occupancy unit 500 can continue searching for additional occupants that may be in more immediate danger.

[0072] In one embodiment, at least a portion of portable occupancy unit 500 may be incorporated into a suit of an emergency responder, such as a firefighter suit. For example, the sensors may be incorporated into a helmet of the suit, into one or both gloves of the suit, into a backpack of the suit, etc. The output interface may be incorporated into one or more speakers of the helmet of the suit. The output interface can also be incorporated into a display screen within the helmet of the suit. The processor, memory, user interface, power source, transceiver, and GPS unit can similarly be incorporated into the suit. In an alternative embodiment, at least the sensors and the transceiver may be incorporated into a wand or other portable unit, and the output interface, processor, memory, user interface, power source, and GPS unit can be incorporated into the suit.

[0073] In one embodiment, the system herein can be implemented using a remote server that is in communication with a plurality of sensory nodes that are located in a dwelling. The remote server can be used to process information reported by the sensory nodes and to control the sensory nodes. In one embodiment, the remote server can replace the decision node(s) such that a given dwelling is only equipped with the sensory nodes. In such an embodiment, the system can be implemented using cloud computing techniques as known to those of skill in the art.

[0074] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating operations performed by an evacuation system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In alternative embodiments, fewer, additional, and/or different operations may be performed. The use of a flow diagram is not meant to be limiting with respect to the order of operations performed. In an operation 600, the system determines a severity of a sensed condition. In one embodiment, the severity may be based at least in part on a rate of change (or spread rate) of the sensed condition. As an example, a condition may be detected at a first sensory node. The rate of change can be based on the amount of time it takes for other sensory nodes to sense the same condition or a related condition. If the other sensory nodes rapidly sense the condition after the initial sensing by the first sensory node, the system can determine that the condition is severe and rapidly spreading. As such, the severity of a sensed condition can be based at least in part on the rate at which the sensed condition is spreading. Detected occupancy can also be used to determine the severity of a sensed condition. As an example, a sensed condition may be determined to be more severe if there are any occupants present in the structure where the condition was sensed.

[0075] The type of sensed condition may also be used to determine the severity of a sensed condition. As an example, sensed smoke or heat indicative of a fire may be determined to be more severe than a sensed gas such as carbon monoxide, or vice versa. The amount of dispersion of a sensed condition may also be used to determine the severity of the sensed condition. In one embodiment, known GPS locations associated with each of the sensory nodes that have sensed a condition can be used to determine the dispersion of the condition. As an example, if numerous sensory nodes spread out over a large area detect the sensed condition, the system can determine that the severity is high based on the large amount of dispersion of the sensed condition. In one embodiment, the GPS locations associated with each of the nodes can be fine-tuned using wireless triangulation as known to those of skill in the art. As an example, a first node may be considered to be at location zero, and locations of all of the other nodes in the building/structure can be relative to location zero. Using wireless triangulation techniques, the relative signal strength of the nodes can be used to determine the locations of the nodes relative to location zero, and the determined locations can be used to replace and improve the accuracy of the GPS locations originally assigned to the nodes during installation.

[0076] The magnitude of the sensed condition can further be used to determine the severity of the sensed condition. As an example, a high temperature or large amount of smoke can indicate a fire of large magnitude, and the system can determine that the severity is high based on the large magnitude. As another example, a large amount of detected carbon dioxide can indicate a high risk to occupants and be designated an evacuation condition of high severity.

[0077] In an illustrative embodiment, the determination of whether a sensed condition has high severity can be based on whether any of the factors taken into consideration for determining severity exceed a predetermined threshold. As an example, a determination of high severity may be made based on the spread rate if a second sensory node detects the sensed condition (that was originally detected by a first sensory node) within 5 seconds of detection of the sensed condition by the first sensory node. Alternatively, the spread rate threshold may be 0.5 seconds, 1 second, 3 seconds, 10 seconds, etc. As another example, the high severity threshold for occupancy may be if one person or pet is detected in the building, if one person or pet is detected within a predetermined distance of the sensory node that sensed the condition, etc. With respect to magnitude, the high severity threshold may be if the temperature is greater than 150 degrees Fahrenheit (F), greater than 200 degrees F., greater than 300 degrees F., etc. The magnitude threshold may also be based on an amount of smoke detected, an amount of gas detected, etc. The high severity threshold with respect to dispersion can be if the sensed condition is detected by two or more sensory nodes, three or more sensory nodes, four or more sensory nodes, etc. The high severity threshold with respect to dispersion may also be in terms of a predetermined geographical area. As an example, the system may determine that the severity is high if the evacuation condition has dispersed an area larger than 100 square feet, 200 square feet, etc. The system may also determine that the severity is high if the evacuation condition has dispersed through at least two rooms of a structure, at least three rooms of the structure, etc.

[0078] In an operation 605, an action is taken based on the severity. In one embodiment, the system can prioritize the sensed condition based at least in part on the severity. A sensed condition with high severity may be prioritized higher than a sensed condition with low severity. In one embodiment, the priority can be provided to emergency rescue personnel as an indication of the urgency of the sensed condition. The emergency rescue personnel can be use the severity indication to help determine the amount of resources (e.g., personnel, fire trucks, etc.) to deploy in response to the evacuation condition. The severity can also be used by the system to help determine whether a sensed condition is a false alarm. A sensed condition with a high severity can be determined to be an actual evacuation condition and the system can trigger the appropriate alarms, notifications, etc. In one embodiment, the severity of a sensed condition may also be used to control the sensitivity of the sensory node that sensed the condition and other sensory nodes in the vicinity of the sensory node that sensed the condition. Sensitivity adjustment is described below with respect to an operation 610.

[0079] In the operation 610, the sensitivity of one or more sensory nodes is adjusted. Sensitivity can refer to the rate at which a sensory node scans its environment for smoke, gas such as carbon monoxide, temperature, occupancy, battery power, ambient light, etc. Examples of sensitivity can be scanning twice a second, once a second, once every 5 seconds, once every 30 seconds, once a minute, once an hour, etc. As indicated above, in one embodiment, the system may adjust the sensitivity of one or more sensory nodes based on the severity of a sensed condition. As also described above, severity can be determined based on factors such as the rate of change of the sensed condition, detected occupancy, the type of sensed condition, the amount of dispersion of the sensed condition, the magnitude of the sensed condition, etc. As an example, smoke may be detected at a sensory node X, and sensory node X can transmit an indication that smoke was detected to a decision node and/or a remote server. If the decision node and/or remote server determine that the sensed condition has high severity, the system can increase the sensitivity of the sensory node X and/or sensory nodes Y and Z in the vicinity of sensory node X such that the scan rate for these nodes increases. The increased sensitivity can also result in a higher communication rate such that the decision node and/or remote server receive more frequent communications from sensory nodes X, Y, and Z regarding sensor readings. The increased sensitivity may also result in a reduction in one or more predetermined thresholds that the system uses to determine if a sensed condition has high severity, to determine if the sensed condition triggers a notification, etc.

[0080] The sensitivity of sensory nodes can also be adjusted if any sensory node detects a condition, regardless of the severity of the condition. As an example, the system may automatically increase the sensitivity of sensory nodes Y and Z (which are in the vicinity of sensory node X) if sensory node X detects a condition. The system may also increase the sensitivity of all sensory nodes in a building/structure if any one of the sensory nodes in that building/structure sense a condition. In one embodiment, in the event of an alternating current (AC) power failure, the sensitivity of sensory nodes may be decreased to conserve battery power within the sensory nodes. Similarly, in embodiments where AC power is not present, the system may decrease the sensitivity of any nodes that have low battery power.

[0081] The sensitivity of sensory nodes may also be controlled based on a location of the sensory node and/or a learned condition relative to the sensory node. For example, a sensory node in a kitchen or in a specific location within a kitchen (such as near the oven/stovetop) may have higher sensitivity than sensory nodes located in other portions of the structure. The sensitivity may also be higher in any sensory node where a condition has been previously detected, or in sensory nodes where a condition has been previously detected within a predetermined amount of time (e.g., within the last day, within the last week, within the last month, within the last year, etc.). The sensitivity may also be based on occupancy patterns. For example, the sensitivity of a given sensory node may be lower during times of the day when occupants are generally not in the vicinity of the node and raised during times of the day when occupants are generally in the vicinity of the node. The sensitivity may also be raised automatically any time that an occupant is detected within the vicinity of a given sensory node.

[0082] The sensitivity of a sensory node may also be increased in response to the failure of another sensory node. As an example, if a sensory node X is no longer functional due to loss of power or malfunction, the system can automatically increase the sensitivity of nodes Y and Z (which are in the vicinity of node X). In one embodiment, the system may increase the sensitivity of all nodes in a building/structure when any one of the sensory nodes in that building/structure fails. In another embodiment, the system may automatically increase the sensitivity of one or more nodes in a building/structure randomly or as part of a predetermined schedule. The one or more nodes selected to have higher sensitivity can be changed periodically according to a predetermined or random time schedule. In such an embodiment, the other nodes in the building/structure (e.g., the nodes not selected to have the higher sensitivity) may have their sensitivity lowered or maintained at a normal sensitivity level, depending on the embodiment.

[0083] In an operation 615, status information regarding the sensory nodes is received from the sensory nodes. In an illustrative embodiment, the sensory nodes periodically provide status information to the decision node and/or remote server. The status information can include an identification of the sensory node, location information corresponding to the sensory node, information regarding battery life of the sensory node, information regarding whether the sensory node is functioning properly, information regarding whether any specific sensors of the sensory node are not functioning properly, information regarding whether the speaker(s) of the sensory node are functioning properly, information regarding the strength of the communication link used by the sensory node, etc. In one embodiment, information regarding the communication link of a sensory node may be detected/determined by the decision node and/or remote server. The status information can be provided by the sensory nodes on a predetermined periodic basis. In the event of a problem with any sensory node, the system can alert a system administrator (or user) of the problem. The system can also increase the sensitivity of one or more nodes in the vicinity of a sensory node that has a problem to help compensate for the deficient node. The system may also determine that a node which fails to timely provide status information according to a periodic schedule is defective and take appropriate action to notify the user and/or adjust the sensitivity of surrounding nodes.

[0084] In an operation 620, the system receives and distributes notifications. The notifications can be related to school closings, flight delays, food/drug recalls, natural disasters, weather, AMBER alerts for missing children, etc. The system can receive the notifications from any source known to those of skill in the art. In one embodiment, the notifications are received by the decision node and/or remote server and provided to one or more sensory nodes. The notifications can be provided to the sensory nodes as recorded messages that can be played through the speaker(s) of the sensory nodes. The notifications can also be provided to the sensory nodes as textual messages that are conveyed to users through a display on the sensory nodes. The display can be a liquid crystal display (LCD) or any other display type known to those of skill in the art. The notifications can also be provided to users as e-mails, text messages, voicemails, etc. independent of the sensory nodes.

[0085] In one embodiment, the system can determine the sensory nodes (e.g., locations) to which the notification applies and send the notification to sensory nodes and/or users located within that geographical area. The determination of which sensory nodes are to receive the notification can be based on information known to the system such as the school district in which nodes are located, the zip code in which nodes are located, etc. The sensory nodes in a given geographical area can also be determined based at least in part on the GPS locations associated with the sensory nodes. In an alternative embodiment, the nodes affected by a notification may be included in the notification such that the system does not determine the nodes to which the notification applies.

[0086] In one embodiment, users can tailor the mass notification feature of the system based on their desires/needs. For example, the user can filter notifications by designating the types of notifications that he/she wishes to receive. As such, only the desired type(s) of notifications will be provided to that user. The user may also designate one or more specific sensory nodes that are to receive and convey the notifications, such as only the node(s) in the kitchen, only the node(s) in the master bedroom, etc. The specific sensory node(s) designated to receive and convey the notification may also be based on the time of day that the notification is received. For example, the user may designate the node(s) in the kitchen to convey notifications between 8:00 am and 10:00 pm, and the node(s) in the master bedroom to convey notifications that are received from 10:01 pm through 7:59 am. The user can also select a volume that notifications are to be played at, and different volume levels may be designated for different times of day. The user may also pre-record messages that are to be conveyed through the speaker(s) of the sensory node(s) based on the type of notification. For example, in the event of a tornado notification, the pre-recorded message from the user may be “A tornado is approaching, please head to the basement and stay away from windows.” Alternatively, default messages generated by the system or the mass notification system may be used. The user can further designate the number of times that a notification is to be repeated. In one embodiment, sensory nodes may include a notification light that indicates a notification has been received. The user can receive the notification by pushing a button on the sensory node to play the notification. In addition to the notification itself, the system may also provide instructions to the user for responding to the notification. The instructions may include an evacuation route, a place to go within a dwelling, a place not to go within the dwelling, to leave the dwelling etc.

[0087] In an operation 625, one or more lights on a sensory node are activated. The light(s) can be used to illuminate the immediate area of the sensory node to help occupants identify and utilize evacuation routes. In one embodiment, the light(s) on the sensory node can be light emitting diode (LED) lights. In one embodiment, the lights can be activated in the event of an AC power loss at a sensory node, regardless of whether an evacuation condition is sensed. In an alternative embodiment, the lights may be activated only if there is AC power loss and a detected evacuation condition. In one embodiment, the sensory nodes may include ambient light sensors, and the lights on the sensory node can be activated in the event of an evacuation condition where no or little ambient light is detected by the sensory node.

[0088] In one embodiment, the decision nodes and/or remote server may periodically transmit a heartbeat signal to the sensory nodes using communication links between the decision nodes/remote server and the sensory nodes. If the heartbeat signal is not received by a sensory node, the sensory node can poll surrounding sensory nodes to determine whether the surrounding nodes have received the heartbeat signal. If the surrounding nodes have received the heartbeat signal, the sensory node can determine that there is a problem with its communication link. If the surrounding nodes have not received the heartbeat signal, the sensory node can determine that there is a power loss or radio communication failure with the decision node and/or remote server. If it is determined that there is a power failure with a local decision node or server, the sensory node can be configured to detect whether there is sufficient ambient light in the vicinity, and to activate the one or more lights on the sensory node if there is not sufficient ambient light. In one embodiment, in the event of a power failure, the sensory nodes can also enter a lower power smoke detector mode in which the sensory node functions only as a traditional smoke detector to conserve battery power until AC power is restored.

[0089] In an operation 630, information is provided to emergency responders and/or an emergency call center. Emergency responders can be fire fighters, police officers, paramedics, etc. The emergency call center can be a 911 call center or other similar facility. In an illustrative embodiment, emergency responders can log in to the system to access information regarding evacuation conditions. A user interface can be provided for emergency responders to log in through a computing device such as a laptop computer, smart phone, desktop computer, etc. Individual emergency responders or entire emergency response units can have a unique username and password for logging in to the system. In one embodiment, the system can keep track of the time and identity of individuals who log in to the system.

[0090] Upon logging in to the system, the emergency responder can be provided with a list of sensed evacuation conditions. The list can include an identification of the type of sensed condition such as fire, smoke, gas, etc. The list can include a time at which the condition was first sensed or last sensed based on one or more timestamps from the sensory node(s) that detected the condition. The list can include an address where the condition was sensed and a number of individuals that live at or work at the address. The list can include the type of structure where the condition was sensed such as one story business, three story office building, two story residential home, ranch residential home, etc. The list can also include the size of the structure where the condition was sensed such as a square footage. The list can further include an indication of the response status such as whether anyone has responded to the condition, who has responded to the condition, the time that the condition was responded to, whether additional assistance is needed, etc. In one embodiment, when new entries are added to the list, an audible, textual, and or vibratory alarm can be transmitted from the computing device to notify the emergency responder that a new evacuation condition has been sensed.

[0091] In an illustrative embodiment, the first responder can select an entry from the list of in progress evacuation conditions to receive additional information regarding the selected entry. The additional information can include an animated isothermal view of the structure that shows the current temperatures throughout the structure based on temperatures detected by the sensory nodes within the structure. In addition to temperature zones, the animated isothermal view can illustrate window locations, door locations, any other exit/entry points of the structure, the road(s) nearest the structure, etc. In one embodiment, a separate isothermal view can be provided for each floor and/or each room of the structure, such as a first floor, second floor, third floor, basement, master bedroom, kitchen, etc. The additional information can include a time at which the condition was detected, a number of persons that live or work at the structure, ages of the persons that live or work at the structure, names of the persons that live or work at the structure, a number and/or type of pets at the structure, whether there are farm animals present, the type and/or number of farm animals present, a type of the structure, a size of the structure, a type and/or composition of roofing that the structure has, the type of truss system used in the structure, a type of siding of the structure (e.g., vinyl, aluminum, brick, etc.), whether the structure has sprinklers, whether there are any special needs individuals that live or work in the structure, the type of special needs individuals that live or work in the structure, a lot size of the location, characteristics of the lot such as hilly, trees, flat, etc., a number and/or type of vehicles (cars, trucks, boats, etc.) that may be present at the location, potential obstructions such as on street parking, steep driveway, and hills, etc. As discussed in further detail below, general information regarding the structure, occupants, lot, vehicles, etc. can be provided by the user during installation and setup of the system.

[0092] In one embodiment, the additional information can also include a number of occupants detected at the location at the current time and/or at the time the condition was detected. In such an embodiment, the system can track the number of occupants in a structure by monitoring the exit/entry points of the structure. The occupancy information can also include a location of the occupants. As an example, the system may determine that three occupants are located in a room of the structure, and that the temperature surrounding the room is high. As such, the emergency responders can determine that the three individuals are trapped in the room and make it a priority to get those individuals out of the structure.

[0093] The additional information can include a time when the condition was first detected, historical spread rates of the condition, the severity of the condition, the magnitude of the condition, the amount of dispersion of the condition, the current spread rate of the condition, etc. The amount of dispersion can be used to determine the extent of the evacuation condition and allow responders to determine an appropriate number of responders to send to the structure. As an example, if the system senses smoke and high temperature at every sensory node within the structure, the emergency responders can determine that a fire is present and has spread throughout the structure. Appropriate resources to fight the fire can then be dispatched.

[0094] The additional information can further include an estimated arrival time of the emergency responder to the location using any GPS navigational techniques known to those of skill in the art, the current time, and the condition at the location. The condition at the location can be estimated by the system based on sensed conditions, such as flames in the kitchen, flames in the basement, smoke throughout the structure, etc. The condition at the location may also be based on a first-hand account of an occupant of the structure. In one embodiment, the occupant can provide the first-hand account to an emergency call center operator who can enter the information into the system such that it is accessible by the emergency responders. The emergency call center operator can also enter additional information such as whether any responders are currently on site at the location, a number of responders on site, etc. The first-hand account may also be entered directly into the system by the occupant through a computing device once the occupant has evacuated the structure. The first-hand account can include information regarding the evacuation condition, information regarding occupants still in the structure, information regarding access to the structure, etc. In one embodiment, the user can verbally provide the information and the system can provide the verbal account to the emergency responder. Alternatively, the system can automatically transcribe the verbal account into text and provide the text to the emergency responder. In another embodiment, the user may textually provide the information.

[0095] The additional information regarding an evacuation condition can also include statistics regarding the condition. The statistics can include a heat rise at the structure in terms of degrees per time unit (e.g., 50 degrees F/second), a smoke rise at the structure in terms of parts per million (ppm) per time unit (e.g., 2000 ppm/second), and/or a gas rise such as a carbon monoxide level increase. The heat rise, smoke rise, and/or gas rise can be provided textually and/or visually through the use of a graph or chart. The statistics can also include a heat magnitude and/or smoke magnitude. The statistics can also include one or more locations of the dwelling where occupants were last detected, whether there is still AC power at the location, whether communication to/from the sensory nodes is still possible, whether there is any ambient light at the location, etc. In illustrative embodiments, any of the statistics may be associated with a timestamp indicative of a time of the measurements, etc. that the statistic is based on.

[0096] The additional information regarding an evacuation condition can also include maps. The maps may include a street map of the area surrounding the location at which the evacuation condition was sensed, a map that illustrates utility locations and fire hydrants proximate to the location at which the evacuation condition was sensed, an overhead satellite view showing the location at which the evacuation condition was sensed, a map showing neighborhood density, etc. In one embodiment, one or more of the maps may highlight the route of the emergency responder such that the emergency responder knows the relative location of the structure as he/she arrives at the scene. The additional information may also include a weather report and/or predicted weather for the location at which the evacuation condition was sensed. The maps and/or weather information can be obtained from mapping and weather databases as known to those of skill in the art.

[0097] The additional information regarding an evacuation condition can also include pictures of the interior and/or exterior of the structure. The pictures can include one or more views of the home exterior, illustrating windows, doors, and other possible exits and/or one or more views of the lot on which the structure is located. The pictures can also include one or more interior views of the structure such as pictures of the kitchen, pictures of the bathroom(s), pictures of the bedroom(s), pictures of the basement, pictures of the family room(s), pictures of the dining room(s), etc. The pictures can further include blueprints of the structure. The blueprints can illustrate each floor/level of the structure, dimensions of rooms of the structure, locations of windows and doors, names of the rooms in the structure, etc. In one embodiment, construction information may be included in conjunction with the pictures. The construction information can include the type/composition of the roof, the type of truss system used, the type of walls in the structure, whether there is a basement, whether the basement is finished, whether the basement is exposed, whether the basement has egress windows, the type(s) of flooring in the structure, the utilities utilized by the structure such as water, electricity, natural gas, etc., the grade of the lot on which the structure is located, etc.

[0098] In one embodiment, the system can also generate an investigation page that illustrates statistics relevant to an event investigation. The investigation page can include information regarding what was detected by each of the sensory nodes based on location of the sensory nodes. The detected information can be associated with a timestamp indicating the time that the detection was made. As an example, an entry for a first sensory node located in a kitchen 7:00 pm can indicate a detected smoke level at 7:00 pm, a detected temperature at 7:00 pm, a detected carbon monoxide level at 7:00 pm, a detected number of occupants at 7:00 pm, etc. Additional entries can be included for the first sensory node at subsequent times such as 7:01 pm, 7:02 pm, 7:03 pm, etc. until the evacuation condition is resolved or until the first sensory node is no longer functional. Similar entries can be included for each of the other nodes in the structure. The entries can also indicate the time at which the system determined that there is an evacuation condition, the time at which the system sends an alert to emergency responders and/or an emergency call center, the time at which emergency responders arrive at the scene, etc.

[0099] The investigation page may also include textual and/or visual indications of smoke levels, heat levels, carbon monoxide levels, occupancy, ambient light levels, etc. as a function of time. The investigation page can also include diagnostics information regarding each of the sensory nodes at the structure. The diagnostics information can include information regarding the battery status of the node, the smoke detector status of the node, the occupancy detector status of the node, the temperature sensor status of the node, the carbon monoxide detector status of the node, the ambient light detector status of the node, the communication signal strength of the node, the speaker status of the node, etc. The diagnostic information can also include an installation date of the system at the structure, a most recent date that maintenance was performed at the structure, a most recent date that a system check was performed, etc. The investigation page can also include a summary of the evacuation condition that may be entered by an event investigator.

[0100] In an illustrative embodiment, emergency response call centers can also access the system through a user interface. As indicated above, emergency response operators can add information through the user interface such that the information is accessible to the emergency responders. The information can be received through a 911 call from an occupant present at the location of the evacuation condition. The information may also be received from emergency responders at the location of the evacuation condition. In one embodiment, an audible, textual, and/or vibratory alarm can be triggered upon detection of an evacuation condition to alert an emergency response operator of the condition. In one embodiment, the alarm may continue until the emergency response operator acknowledges the evacuation condition.

[0101] In one embodiment, the system can also send a ‘warning’ alert to a user such as a home owner/business owner when an evacuation condition is detected at his/her structure. In an illustrative embodiment, the system can determine that there is an evacuation condition if a smoke level, heat level, carbon monoxide level, etc. exceeds a respective predetermined evacuation condition threshold. The predetermined evacuation condition thresholds can be set by the system or designated by the user, depending on the embodiment. The system may also be configured to send a ‘watch’ alert to a user if a smoke level, heat level, carbon monoxide level, occupancy level, etc. exceeds a respective predetermined watch threshold. The predetermined watch thresholds can be set by the system or designated by the user, depending on the embodiment. In an illustrative embodiment, the watch thresholds can be in between a normal/expected level and the predetermined evacuation condition threshold. As such, the watch thresholds can be used to provide an early warning to a user that there may be a problem. As an example, the watch threshold for heat in a master bedroom may be 150 degrees F. and the evacuation condition threshold for heat in the master bedroom may be 200 degrees F. As another example, the user may indicate that a detected occupancy which exceeds a watch threshold (e.g., 10 people, 15 people, etc.) should result in a watch alert being sent to the user. As such, the user can determine whether there is an unauthorized party at his/her home. The user can also set the watch threshold for occupancy to 1 person for periods of time when the user is on vacation. As such, the user can be alerted if anyone enters his/her home while he/she is on vacation. A watch alert can also be sent to the user if a power loss is detected at any of the nodes. Watch alerts can also be sent to the user if the system detects a problem with any node such as low battery, inadequate communication signal, malfunctioning speaker, malfunctioning sensor, etc.

[0102] In one embodiment, when the system sends an early warning watch alert to a user, the system can request a response from the user indicating whether the user is at the location and/or whether the user believes that the watch alert is a false alarm. If no response is received from the user or if the user indicates that the alert may not be a false alarm, the system can automatically increase the sensitivity of the system to help determine whether there is an evacuation condition. The watch alerts and warning alerts can be sent to the user in the form of a text message, voice message, telephone call, e-mail, etc. In an illustrative embodiment, watch alerts are not provided by the system to emergency responders or an emergency response call center.

[0103] In one embodiment, one or more of the sensory nodes in a structure can include a video camera that is configured to capture video of at least a portion of the structure. Any type of video camera known to those of skill in the art may be used. In one embodiment, the video captured by the video camera can be sent to a remote server and stored at the remote server. To reduce the memory requirements at the remote server, the remote server may be configured to automatically delete the stored video after a predetermined period of time such as one hour, twelve hours, twenty-four hours, one week, two weeks, etc. A user can log in to the remote server and view the video captured by any one of the sensory nodes. As such, when the user is away from home, the user can check the video on the remote server to help determine whether there is an evacuation condition. Also, when the user is on vacation or otherwise away from home for an extended period of time, the user can log in to the remote server to make sure that there are no unexpected occupants in the structure, that there are no unauthorized parties at the structure, etc. The stored video can also be accessible to emergency responders, emergency call center operators, event investigators, etc. In one embodiment, in the event of an evacuation condition, the video can be streamed in real-time and provided to emergency responders and/or emergency call center operators when they log in to the system and view details of the evacuation condition. As such, the emergency responders and/or emergency call center operators can see a live video feed of the evacuation condition. The live video feed can be used to help determine the appropriate amount of resources to dispatch, the locations of occupants, etc.

[0104] FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating communication between the system, emergency responders, a user, and an emergency response call center in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. Although not illustrated, it is to be understood that the communications may occur through a direct link or a network such as the Internet, cellular network, local area network, etc. Sensory nodes 705 in a structure can provide detected information, status information, etc. to a system server 700. The sensory nodes 705 can also receive instructions, evacuation routes, etc. from the system server 700. The sensory nodes 705 can also communicate with a user device 710 to provide alerts and receive acknowledgements and/or instructions regarding the alerts. In an alternative embodiment, communication of alerts and acknowledgements may be between the system server 700 and the user device 710. The user device 710 can also communicate with the sensory nodes 705 and/or system server 700 during installation and/or testing the system as described in more detail below.

[0105] Upon detection of an evacuation condition, the system server 700 can provide information regarding the evacuation condition and/or structure to an emergency responder server 715. In one embodiment, the emergency responder server 715 can generate a record of the evacuation condition and provide the record to an emergency call center 720. The emergency responder server 715 may also receive information from the emergency call center 720 such as login information, additional information regarding the evacuation condition received during a 911 call, etc. In one embodiment, the emergency responder server 715 or an operator at the emergency response call center can initiate contact with the first responders through a telephone call, etc. to an emergency responder center. Upon receiving notice of the evacuation condition, an emergency responder can use an emergency responder device 725 to log in to the system. The login information can be communicated from the emergency responder device 725 to the emergency responder server 715. The emergency responder device 725 can receive the evacuation condition record and utilize the information to prepare for responding to the evacuation condition and to ensure that sufficient resources are dedicated to the evacuation condition.

[0106] The evacuation condition record provided to the emergency responder device 725 from the emergency responder server 715 can include any of the information discussed above, including maps, pictures, occupancy information, statistics regarding the evacuation condition, etc. In an alternative embodiment, the emergency responder server 715 may not be used. In such an embodiment, the system server 700 can be used to communicate with the emergency call center 720 and the emergency responder device 725.

[0107] In an illustrative embodiment, the system server 700 and/or sensory nodes 705 can communicate with the user device 710 during setup, installation, and/or testing of the system, and also to provide warning and watch alerts as described above. The user device can be a laptop computer, cellular telephone, smart phone, desktop computer, or any other computing device known to those of skill in the art. In one embodiment, the user device 710 can be used to access a user interface such that a user can access the system. The user interface can allow the user to set system preferences, provide occupancy information, provide vehicle information, upload pictures of the structure, provide construction information regarding the structure, provide lot information, provide information regarding the density of the surrounding neighborhood, etc. The user interface can also be used by the user to select and configure a service plan associated with the system and pay bills for the service plan.

[0108] The user interface accessible through the user device 710 can allow the user to record personalized evacuation route messages and/or personalized messages for dealing with mass notifications received by the system, and designate which sensory node(s) are used to convey the personalized messages. The user can also select how alerts/notifications are provided to the user, such as phone calls, text messages, e-mails, etc. The user can individually control the volume of each node through the user interface. The user can indicate the name of the room where each sensory node is located such that the room name is associated with the node (e.g., kitchen, living room, master bedroom, garage, etc.). The user can also temporarily decrease node sensitivity based on planned family events such as parties, seasonal canning (which results in high heat), card games in which guests are smoking, etc. In one embodiment, the user can use the user interface to designate the sensitivity level for each of the detectors included in each of the sensory nodes. In another embodiment, the user can also set threshold levels for heat, smoke, and/or carbon monoxide to dictate what constitutes an evacuation condition and/or a watch (or early warning) condition as discussed above.

[0109] The user can also access system integrity and status information through the user interface. The system integrity and status information can include present battery levels, historic battery levels, estimated battery life, estimated sensor life for any of the sensors in any of the sensory nodes, current and historic AC power levels, current and historic communication signal strengths for the sensory nodes, current and historic sensitivity levels of the sensory nodes, the date of system installation, the dates when any system maintenance has been performed and/or the type of maintenance performed, etc. The system information accessible through the user interface can further include current and historic levels of smoke, heat, carbon monoxide, ambient light, occupancy, etc. detected by each of the sensory nodes.

[0110] The system can also provide the user with weekly, monthly, yearly, etc. diagnostic reports regarding system status. The reports may also be provided to emergency response departments such as a fire department and an insurance provider that insure the user's home. The system can also send reminders to the user to perform periodic tests and/or simulations to help ensure that the system is functional and that the user stays familiar with how the system operates. In one embodiment, users may receive an insurance discount from their insurance provider only if they run the periodic tests and/or simulations of the system. The system can also send periodic requests asking the user to provide any changes to the information provided during installation. Examples of information that may change can include an addition to the structure, additional occupants living at the structure, a new pet, the death of a pet, fewer occupants living at the structure, a change in construction materials of the structure such as a new type of roof, new flooring, etc.

[0111] In an illustrative embodiment, the user can develop and run emergency test scenarios through the user interface to test the system and help ensure that the user understands how the system operates. As an example, the user may simulate an evacuation condition of a fire. As such, the system can provide evacuation routes, play pre-recorded messages, sound an alarm, send a warning alert to the user, etc. such that the user and others in the structure can perform a fire drill. In addition to practicing the fire drill, the user can verify that room locations associated with the sensors are accurate, the desired volume levels of the sensors are being used, that pre-recorded evacuation messages are correct, etc. As discussed above, in the event of an evacuation condition or mass notification message, the system can also be configured take different actions based on the time of day that the evacuation condition is detected or that the mass notification is received. The user can also simulate an evacuation condition for a specific time of day to ensure that the system operates as designated by the user for that specific time. The user can also simulate the system with respect to mass notifications that may be received and conveyed by the system such as weather alerts, school closings, etc.

[0112] In an illustrative embodiment, evacuation simulations can be controlled by the system server 700. Alternatively, a separate emergency simulator server may be used. In one embodiment, the simulation of an evacuation condition may be performed in conjunction with the emergency responder server 715 and/or the emergency call center 720 to ensure that the system properly provides the authorities with a notification of the evacuation condition. In such an embodiment, the notification provided to the emergency responder server 715 and/or the emergency call center 720 can be designated as a ‘test’ notification or similar to ensure that the emergency responders know that there is not an actual evacuation condition.

[0113] FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating an evacuation system 800 with remote sensors in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. Evacuation system 800 includes a sensory node 105, a decision node 125, a network 135, an emergency response center 140, and a computing device 145 as described with reference to FIG. 1 and throughout the present application. In addition, evacuation system 800 is in communication with a climate control unit 802, and includes a water flow sensor 805, flood sensor 810, a wind sensor 815, and a hail/rain sensor 820. In alternative embodiments, evacuation system 800 may include fewer, additional, or different elements.

[0114] As illustrated in FIG. 8, climate control unit 802, water flow sensor 805, flood sensor 810, wind sensor 815, and hail/rain sensor 820 are in communication with network 135 such that sensed data can be communicated to decision node 125 and/or sensory node 105 through network 135. Instructions and/or data can also be provided to climate control unit 802, water flow sensor 805, flood sensor 810, wind sensor 815, and hail/rain sensor 820 from decision node 125, sensory node 105, and/or computing device 145 via network 135. In an alternative embodiment, climate control unit 802, water flow sensor 805, flood sensor 810, wind sensor 815, and hail/rain sensor 820 may communicate directly with decision node 125, sensory node 105, and computing device 145 through a wired or wireless connection outside of network 135.

[0115] Climate control unit 802 can be a thermostat or other unit that is used to control the temperature within a building by controlling heating units and air conditioning units for the building. In one embodiment, decision node 125 and/or sensory node 105 of evacuation system 800 can include a thermometer or other known apparatus for determining temperature. The decision node 125 and/or sensory node 105 can also include data regarding the usual or normal temperature for one or more different rooms of the building in which evacuation system 800 is installed. The data can be based on sensed temperature data that is accumulated over time. The data can also be received from a user through the user interface of evacuation system 800 as threshold temperatures for various rooms of the building. For example, the user may indicate that the minimum temperature for a bedroom of the building is 68 degrees Fahrenheit (F) and that the minimum temperature for the basement of the building is 60 degrees F. As another example, the user may indicate that the maximum temperature for the bedroom of the building is 72 degrees F., the maximum temperature for a kitchen of the building is 76 degrees F., and the maximum temperature for a bathroom of the building is 74 degrees F.

[0116] In an illustrative embodiment, the temperature data is used by decision node 125 and/or sensory node 105 to control climate control unit 802 such that the desired temperature or normal temperature is maintained throughout the various rooms of the building. As a result, there can be numerous locations throughout the building at which decision/sensory nodes are installed, and the temperature can be controlled through each of these locations. This is in contrast to many traditional systems in which a single, centrally located thermostat is used to control the temperature for an entire building. In one embodiment, the user can also manually control climate control unit 802 by sending instructions via the user interface of evacuation system 800. For example, the user may leave on vacation during the winter and forget to turn the heat down prior to departure. With the present system, the user can log in to the user interface and provide an instruction to lower the heat from 72 degrees F. to 60 degrees F. for the entire building. The instruction can be received by decision node 125 and/or sensory node 105 via network 135. Responsive to receiving the instruction, decision node 125 and/or sensory node 105 can control climate control unit 802 to implement the temperature change in the building.

[0117] In one embodiment, the user can be provided a notification if the temperature in a given room of the building exceeds a set temperature or an expected temperature by a threshold amount. For example, if the temperature in a bedroom exceeds the expected temperature by 10 degrees, the user may be provided a notification. The notification can be a visual and/or audio notification from the decision/sensory node, or the notification may be in the form of an e-mail, text message, telephone call, etc. to a computing device of the user. In one embodiment, one or more neighbors of the user may also be provided with such a notification. The threshold amount and form of notification can be specified by the user during setup of evacuation system 800. In an alternative embodiment, decision node 125 and/or sensory node 105 may include the functionality of a thermostat such that decision node 125 and/or sensory node 105 controls the heating and air conditioning units directly. In such an embodiment, the building may not include a centrally located climate control unit 802.

[0118] Water flow sensor 805 can be used to determine if continuous water flow is occurring within a dwelling. Such detection is beneficial in both an environmental sense and also as a method of predicting a home flooding catastrophe. In an illustrative embodiment, evacuation system 800 can learn normal water flow patterns of the building based on sensor data received from water flow sensor 805 and/or based on data received from the user. The learned/received data can include an identification of times of day when it is generally expected that there will be little or no water flow, times of day when it is generally expected that there will be heavy water flow, an identification of days of the week on which water flow is expected to light or heavy, areas of the house where it is generally expected that there will be light or heavy water flow, etc. Abnormal water flow or excessive water flow can occur if a water pipe breaks, a garden hose is left on, a toilet runs continuously, a water faucet is left on, etc. In one embodiment, abnormal water flow can be detected if the water runs longer than a predetermined threshold amount of time such as a number of minutes or a number of hours. The threshold can be set by the user via the user interface, or established by the system, depending on the embodiment. In the event of detection of abnormal water flow, the user can be provided with a notification. The notification can be a visual and/or audio notification from the decision/sensory node, or the notification may be in the form of an e-mail, text message, telephone call, etc. to a computing device of the user. In one embodiment, one or more neighbors of the user may also be provided with such a notification.

[0119] In an illustrative embodiment, water flow sensor 805 can be an acoustic sensor mounted on or near a water pipe. In one embodiment, water flow sensor 805 can include a microphone, a processor, a memory, and a transmitter. The microphone can be mounted on, near, or around a water pipe to detect the sound of running water within the pipe. In an illustrative embodiment, the microphone is part of a sleeve that wraps around the water pipe. The microphone can be acoustically isolated from environmental noises via insulation, noise cancellation techniques, or any other techniques known to those of skill in the art. The processor of water flow sensor 805 can receive volume and frequency characteristics of sounds received through the microphone. The memory can store the data, and the transmitter, which can be wired or wireless, can transmit the measured values to a decision node, a sensory node, or a local/remote server, which in turn can determine whether there is water flow, the amount of water flow, and whether the water flow is normal or abnormal. Alternatively, the processor of water flow sensor 805 can make such determinations. If the water flow is abnormal, a notification is provided as discussed above. The water pipe that is monitored can be the main water line coming into the home/building, or any other water pipe in the building, including the water supply to a sprinkler system designed to combat fire. In one embodiment, a water flow sensor 805 can be installed on each water pipe in the building.

[0120] In one embodiment, water flow sensor 805 may also include a thermistor or other temperature detection device to monitor a temperature of the water pipe. The temperature of the water pipe can also be used to detect water flow and determine whether the water flow is normal or abnormal. For example, if the hot water faucet is left on, the thermistor may sense that the temperature of the water pipe is high for an extended period of time, which is an indication that hot water is running. The thermistor may similarly detect that cold water is running if the temperature of the water pipe is low for an extended period of time. In an illustrative embodiment, the thermistor can be used in conjunction with the microphone to help prevent false alarms. For example, if the microphone data is inconclusive, the system may relay on the thermistor data to help determine whether water is flowing through a pipe. Alternatively, the thermistor may be used independent of the microphone.

[0121] Flood sensor 810 can be used to detect a flood in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. As an example, one or more flood sensors can be placed in areas on a lowest level of a building where flooding may occur, such as a basement generally, near a sump pump in a basement, in a bathroom within the basement, near a washing machine, etc. Flood sensor 810 may also be placed in upper levels of the building in or near bathrooms, laundry rooms, kitchens, and/or other areas that are potentially at risk of flooding. Flood sensor 810 can detect flooding that occurs as a result of internal water leaks or water from outside that flows into a building. In one embodiment, flood sensor 810 can measure the electrical conductivity between two or more sensors or probes of flood sensor 810 that are placed at or near floor level to detect the presence of water. Any water detecting probes or sensing components known to those of skill in the art can be used.

[0122] In addition to the sensors, flood sensor 810 can include a processor, a transmitter, and a memory. In an illustrative embodiment, upon detection of water by flood sensor 810, the processor of flood sensor 810 can receive an indication that water has been detected, store the information in memory, and cause the transmitter to transmit data to a decision node, sensory node, or local/remote server via wireless and/or wired communication. In response to detection of water and a potential flood, the user can be provided with a notification. The notification can be a visual and/or audio notification from the decision/sensory node, or the notification may be in the form of an e-mail, text message, telephone call, etc. to a computing device of the user. In one embodiment, one or more neighbors of the user may also be provided with such a notification.

[0123] Wind sensor 815 can be used to detect wind proximate to a building in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. As an example one or more wind sensors can be placed in areas on or near an exterior of a building, such as a fence post, a roof, a dedicated post, etc. Wind sensor 815 can be used to detect high winds that may potentially damage an exterior of a building, such as siding, roofing, etc. In one embodiment, wind sensor 815 can be implemented in part as a hot wire anemometer. A hot wire anemometer uses a very fine wire (generally on the order of several micrometers) electrically heated up to some temperature above the ambient temperature. Air flowing past the wire has a cooling effect on the wire. As the electrical resistance of metals such as tungsten, for example, is dependent upon the temperature of the metal, a relationship can be obtained between the resistance of the wire and the flow speed such that the flow speed of the wind can be determined.

[0124] Alternatively, the wind sensing components may be ultrasonic. Both wind speed and direction can be measured using an ultrasonic sensor. The ultrasonic sensor uses ultrasound to determine horizontal wind speed and direction. In one embodiment, an array of three equally spaced ultrasonic transducers on a horizontal plane can be used to ensure accurate wind measurement from all wind directions, without blind angles or corrupted readings. The ultrasonic wind sensor has no moving parts, which makes it maintenance free.

[0125] In addition to the sensors, wind sensor 815 can include a processor, a transmitter, and a memory. In an illustrative embodiment, upon detection of wind with a speed in excess of a threshold by wind sensor 815, the processor of wind sensor 815 can receive an indication that high speed wind has been detected, store the data in memory, and can cause the transmitter to transmit the data to a decision node, sensory node, or local/remote server via wireless and/or wired communication. The wind speed threshold can be set by the user, or set by the system depending on the embodiment. In response to detection of the high speed wind, the user can be provided with a notification. The notification can be a visual and/or audio notification from the decision/sensory node, or the notification may be in the form of an e-mail, text message, telephone call, etc. to a computing device of the user. In one embodiment, one or more neighbors of the user may also be provided with such a notification.

[0126] Hail/rain sensor 820 can be used to detect hail and/or heavy rain in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. As an example, one or more hail/rain sensors can be placed in areas on or near an exterior of a building, such as a fence post, a roof, a dedicated post, etc. In one embodiment, hail/rain sensor 820 can be a piezoelectic sensor that includes a round stainless steel cover mounted to a rigid frame. A piezoelectric detector is located beneath the cove, and the electronics of the system can be mounted beneath the detector. Hail and raindrops hit the sensor at their terminal velocity, which is a function of the hail/raindrop diameter. Measurement is based on the acoustic detection of each individual rain drop or piece of hail as it impacts the sensor cover. Larger raindrops or pieces of hail create a larger acoustic signal than smaller drops or pieces of hail. The piezoelectric detector converts the acoustic signals into voltages. Total rain/hail fall is calculated from the sum of the individual voltage signals per unit time and the known surface area of the sensor. This information is also used to calculate intensity and duration of rain or hail. In one embodiment, the sensor can also distinguish between hail and raindrops based on the acoustic differences when rain vs. hail contacts the sensor. Alternatively, the hail/rain sensor can be a fully shielded, low mass, thin, large surface sensor that includes a sensing element constructed of elastic electret film and a plurality of layers of polyester with aluminum electrodes. Crimped connectors can be used for connecting the electrodes to an electronic measuring device as known to those of skill in the art. Alternatively, any other hail/rain sensor known to those of skill in the art may be used.

[0127] In an alternative embodiment, hail/rain sensor 820 can be implemented in whole or in part as a tipping bucket sensor that is configured to detect precipitation. The tipping bucket sensor can be implemented as a rain/hail gauge that includes a funnel that collects and channels the precipitation into a small seesaw-like container. After a pre-set amount of precipitation falls, the lever tips, dumping the precipitation and sending an electrical signal via the processor and transmitter, as discussed below.

[0128] In addition to the sensors, hail/rain sensor 820 can include a processor, a transmitter, and a memory. In an illustrative embodiment, upon detection of hail/rain by hail sensor 820, the processor of hail sensor 820 can receive an indication that hail/rain has been detected, store the data in memory, and cause the transmitter to transmit data to a decision node, sensory node, or local/remote server via wireless and/or wired communication. In response to detection of hail and/or rain that exceeds a hail/rain threshold, the user or an interested party such as the home insurer can be provided with a notification. The notification can be a visual and/or audio notification from the decision/sensory node, or the notification may be in the form of an e-mail, text message, telephone call, etc. to a computing device of the user. The hail/rain threshold can be set by the user or by the system, and can be based on the duration of hail/rain, the size of the hail/rain, and/or the amount of hail/rain.

[0129] In addition to the sensors discussed above, evacuation system 800 may also include indoor and/or outdoor temperature sensors, indoor and/or outdoor humidity sensors, lightning detection sensors, lightening range detection sensors, sun intensity sensors, freeze sensors, earthquake sensors, etc. that operate in a similar fashion to the sensors discussed above. As one example, the system may include a combined temperature and humidity sensor that detects relative humidity and temperature outputs. A lightning detector can function by detecting the electromagnetic pulse emitted by a lightning strike. By measuring the strength of the detected electromagnetic pulse, the lightning sensor can then estimate how far away the detected strike was. When exposed to multiple detected strikes, the lightning detector can be configured to calculate and extrapolate the direction of the storm's movement relative to its position (i.e., approaching, departing, or stationary). Sun intensity can be measured using optical sensors as known to those of skill in the art. An earthquake sensor can be implemented using an accelerometer as known to those of skill in the art.

[0130] Any of these additional sensors can include a processor, a transmitter, and a memory. In an illustrative embodiment, upon detection of a detected condition or a detected condition in excess of a threshold, the processor of the sensor can receive an indication that a condition has been detected, store the data in memory, and cause the transmitter to transmit data to a decision node, sensory node, or local/remote server via wireless and/or wired communication. In response to detection of the condition or a condition that exceeds a threshold, the user or other interested party can be provided with a notification. The notification can be a visual and/or audio notification from the decision/sensory node, or the notification may be in the form of an e-mail, text message, telephone call, etc. to a computing device of the user. In one embodiment, one or more neighbors of the user may also be provided with such a notification. The threshold, if used, can be set by the user or by the system.

[0131] In addition to providing users with notifications that their dwellings may be at risk of damage, the above-discussed sensor information may also be provided to insurance companies. For example, the ability to detect excessive rain, hail, high winds, lightning strikes, earthquakes, etc. over a geographically disperse area would greatly improve the ability to underwrite insurance customers. The detection of hail could also generate automated messages to home inspectors, providing a rapid customer interaction. Hail detection in an area or neighborhood could also prompt the system to send text warning messages alerting insurance customers to move their vehicles indoors. Historic information of rainfall will also help insurance companies underwrite homeowners policies when there are concerns of flooding. The outdoor wind speed and direction sensor could also be used to improve conditions during the heating season. Under high wind conditions, homes tend to cool much quicker than on calm, sunny days. As such, the user may be provided with a suggestion to open/close windows to improve heating/cooling of the building. Further, by collecting and analyzing internal and external environmental conditions including wind speed, sunlight intensity, humidity, and external temperature, the home temperature could be regulated much more efficiently to save energy. Further, detecting high levels of humidity over long period of times may be indicative of broken water pipes within a building's walls, leading to mold development. Sensing persistent, elevated levels of humidity could warn the homeowner prior to the onset of mold. An indoor freeze sensor can also be used to warn a homeowner that the heating system is not working and that water pipes may be at risk of freezing and bursting.

[0132] In addition, any of the sensors described herein can be used in part for multi-parameter detection of an evacuation condition. In an illustrative embodiment, multi-parameter detection can refer to use of multiple environmental conditions as detected by differing types of sensors to determine when an evacuation condition occurs, and to prevent false alarms. In one embodiment, the detected environmental conditions can be compared against one other or compared against themselves over time to determine the presence or absence of flame, smoke, or other physical conditions that embody or are precursors to a fire or other evacuation condition. As such, the system can be configured to store and organize data collected by the various sensors of the system. That data can then be used to further refine the algorithms described herein in a manner that creates a more sensitive and more accurate evacuation condition detection algorithm.

[0133] In one embodiment, the collected data and the algorithm can be normalized for geographic differences, location of the sensor in specific places in a structure (such as a room with regularly elevated or diminished levels of a particular parameter—e.g., greater humidity in a bathroom or kitchen), etc. For example, the system may take geographic location and elevation into consideration when interpreting sensed humidity levels and temperatures. A building in a desert climate is more likely to have high temperature and low humidity than a building located in a mountainous region. The system can also utilize historical weather data to help evaluate sensor readings and determine whether a reading indicates an evacuation condition or a false alarm. For example, the system may know to expect elevated humidity levels during what is traditionally a rainy season for a given region. The system can also access a weather database to obtain upcoming forecast information such that the system can know whether a storm, temperature increase, temperature decrease, etc. is to be expected.

[0134] In an illustrative embodiment, any of the decision nodes or sensor nodes disclosed herein can include a silence switch, button, or other control such that the user can terminate an alarm/warning in the event of a false positive. The evacuation system can use activation of the silence switch to identify trends of when false positives occur, and to adjust system sensitivity based on the trends. As an example, a user may cook a frozen pizza at 6:00 pm in a kitchen of a house. The oven used to cook the pizza may generate smoke and cause a sensory node in the kitchen to identify an evacuation condition. In response, the user may press the silence button because there is not really a fire in the kitchen. The same occurrence may occur numerous times over the course of several months (i.e., a false positive may occur at around 6:00 pm due to smoke sensed by the kitchen sensory node, and the user may use the silence switch). As a result, the system can automatically adjust the sensitivity of the sensory node in the kitchen such that a small amount of smoke does not set off the alarm if the small amount of smoke is detected between 5:30-6:30 pm on weekdays, for example. The times during which the sensitivity is adjusted, the days on which sensitivity is adjusted, and the amount by which the sensitivity is adjusted can vary based on the specific implementation. In one embodiment, the system may require permission from the user prior to adjusting the sensitivity to ensure that the user is comfortable with the sensitivity adjustment. The sensitivity adjustment is not limited to the kitchen. A similar sensitivity adjustment based on use of the silence switch may occur in a bathroom due to humidity/temperature increases responsive to the user taking a shower at a certain time of day, or in any other room of the house where false alarms routinely occur.

[0135] In one embodiment, buildings that utilize the present evacuation system may have a remotely located, or cloud based, emergency panel that is located on a server that is connected to network 135. As a result, information from the emergency panel can readily be provided to fire fighters and other emergency responders.

[0136] In one embodiment, the evacuation systems described herein can include the ability to send textual messages to 911 call centers when an evacuation condition is detected. In one implementation, the system can be connected to a home telephone line (landline) and can call a local 911 center and transmit textual information directly to the 911 operator. The textual information can include an address at which the evacuation condition was detected. The textual information can also include a website link through which the 911 operator can obtain additional information regarding the building, the occupants, and/or the evacuation condition. In another embodiment, individuals who are deaf and/or unable to speak can use text functionality of the system to communicate directly with a 911 operator through text messages.

[0137] The evacuation systems described herein can also include microphones within the nodes to monitor noises within a building. As one example, the system can be used to monitor and detect potential problems with elderly individuals based on sounds. For example, a loud noise (e.g., bang, crash, etc.) in the middle of the night may be an indication that an elderly individual has fallen out of bed, fallen down on the way to the restroom, etc. As a result of such a noise, the system can send a notification to an individual responsible for caring for the elderly individual, such as a relative, a nursing home custodian, etc. The occupancy detection functionality of the evacuation system can also be used to detect if an elderly individual unexpectedly leaves his/her room and send a notification to one or more individuals caring for the elderly individual.

[0138] In an embodiment in which the evacuation system includes video capabilities, the system may also use biometric monitoring in conjunction with occupancy detection to identify what individuals enter and leave the building. The biometric monitoring can be implemented through retinal detection as known to those of skill in the art. Retinal scans can be taken of individuals that live at, work in, or otherwise regularly enter the building. As such, in addition to identifying a number of occupants in the building or in a portion of the building, the system can also identify which individuals are in the building. The system can also identify individuals who are not regularly in the building if their retinal scan does not match any stored retinal scan information. In one embodiment, a notification can be sent to a user if an individual with an unknown retinal pattern enters the building. This may be an indication of a burglar or of unwanted individuals in the building.

[0139] The evacuation system can further be configured to tie into existing systems of the building such that lights can be remotely controlled, doors can locked/unlocked, a garage door can be opened/closed, etc. For example, the system can be configured to send wireless signals to a garage door opener such that a user can remotely open/close the garage door. The system can also be integrated into the building's electrical system to control lights, electronic door locks, and/or any other electronic components of the building.

[0140] In an illustrative embodiment, any of the operations described herein can be implemented at least in part as computer-readable instructions stored on a computer-readable memory. Upon execution of the computer-readable instructions by a processor, the computer-readable instructions can cause a node to perform the operations.

[0141] The foregoing description of illustrative embodiments has been presented for purposes of illustration and of description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting with respect to the precise form disclosed, and modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or may be acquired from practice of the disclosed embodiments. It is intended that the scope of the invention be defined by the claims appended hereto and their equivalents.