World's smallest four-in-one smoke alarm to save us from fire

In what could significantly reduce the impact of fire accidents in smaller spaces like boats, yachts, caravans or motorhomes, a joint team from Denmark and New Zealand has developed the world's smallest four-in-one smoke alarm. This alarm can be easily installed in small spaces and also used to wake up travelers if the door has opened, for personal protection and as a movement alarm.

World's smallest alarm

Smoke alarms have never been seen as an important requirement in a household. However, most of the fire accidents take place in the absence of an effective smoke alarm and generally when people are sleeping. According to Peter Smith, founder of Cavius Nano and also the member of the designing team, smoke alarms were not working or installed in over 80 percent of the total 3700 house fire cases attended by the New Zealand Fire Service last year. This new smoke alarm thus qualifies to be a life saving device one must have.

The 4-inch long Cavius Nano smoke alarm is based on the photoelectric technology. It differs considerably from the smoke alarms based on ioniziation sensors which monitors the electrically charged particles. These alarms produce sound when there is a change in the electrical balance of its chamber because of smoke. However, they have been found to be prone to false alarms.

In contrast, the photoelectric Cavius Nano alarm has a light sensor. The amount of light which reaches the sensor of this alarm changes whenever smoke particles enter into it. And, the alarm blows off when the amount of smoke becomes more than the maximum allowable level set previously. This new smoke alarm has a control lamp as well an audible warning signal. While control lamp flashes constantly when it is active, the alarm produces a penetrating sound at 85 db(A) at three meters.

Priced at $69.99, this photoelectric device has been designed aesthetically for small spaces and comes with a battery that will work for five years. It is easy to install and environment friendly as well. Among the other features, this alarm has an option for a ten minute pause and it alerts the user if the battery is low. At present, the company is trying to increase the brand awareness about the alarm and sell through high value retailers. It is now being sold in countries like France, Australia, New Zealand etc and can be purchased online as well.

Via: BusinessDay