Surya Prototype: Fire Extinguisher Alarm Device with Installation and Expiration Date Timer

Concept:

A smart alarm device that attaches to fire extinguishers to monitor their installation and expiration dates. The device will issue an audible alert starting one week before the expiration date, ensuring timely maintenance or replacement.

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Key Features

1. Installation Timer:

Tracks the installation date and calculates the expiration timeline.

2. Expiration Date Alerts:

Emits an alarming sound starting 7 days before the expiration date, continuing daily until replacement.

3. LED Indicator:

Visual alert system with color-coded LEDs:

Green: Active and valid.

Yellow: Approaching expiration (within one week).

Red: Expired.

4. Battery Status Monitoring:

Notifies users if the device's battery is running low.

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Components

1. Microcontroller (e.g., ATmega328):

Handles date tracking and alert mechanisms.

2. Real-Time Clock (RTC) Module:

Tracks time and date to ensure accurate timer functionality.

3. Buzzer:

Emits an audible alarm as the expiration date nears.

4. LED Indicators:

Provides visual alerts for status updates.

5. Input Buttons:

Allows users to set the installation date and expiration duration.

6. Battery (e.g., CR2032 or Li-ion):

Powers the device with long-lasting performance.

7. Plastic Enclosure:

Compact, durable housing to attach securely to the fire extinguisher.

8. Adhesive Mounting or Magnetic Clip:

Ensures easy attachment to various extinguisher types.

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Mechanism

1. Setup:

Upon installation, the user sets the installation date and lifespan of the fire extinguisher (e.g., 5 years).

The RTC module records the current date and calculates the expiration date.

2. Monitoring:

The device continuously monitors the current date against the expiration timeline.

3. Alert Activation:

7 days before the expiration date:

The buzzer emits a loud alarm daily until the expiration date.

The LED changes from green to yellow.

After the expiration date:

The LED turns red, and the alarm becomes continuous until reset.

4. Battery Status Check:

A low-power indicator alerts the user to replace the battery to ensure uninterrupted operation.

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Benefits

1. Proactive Maintenance:

Ensures fire extinguishers are replaced or serviced on time, reducing safety risks.

2. Convenience:

Eliminates the need for manual checks by providing automated alerts.

3. Increased Safety:

Prevents reliance on expired or ineffective extinguishers during emergencies.

4. Cost-Effective:

Affordable solution that extends the usability of existing fire extinguishers.

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Future Enhancements

Bluetooth Connectivity:

Pair with a smartphone app for remote monitoring and notifications.

QR Code Scanner:

Automatically retrieves expiration data by scanning extinguisher labels.

Centralized Monitoring:

Link multiple devices in a building to a single monitoring system for large-scale management.