DE102005060748B3 - Fire warning alarm unit e.g. smoke warning alarm unit, flame alarm unit for use in houses and commercial areas has memory for storing self-testing results which are also sent by transmitter to receiver - Google Patents

Abstract

A self-test device (9) includes smoke sensors (3,4) and test aerosol (7) that output test signals. A processor (8) that executes a self-test operation has a memory that stores the results of self-testing. A transmitter (10) sends the self-testing results to a receiver (11). An independent claim is also included for a method for testing a fire warning alarm unit.

Description

The The invention relates to a fire alarm with a self-test device for functional testing of the fire alarm, with the self-testing device testing equipment for generating test signals, one to carry the self-examination equipped processor and a memory. Furthermore, will a procedure for checking a fire alarm described with a self-test device, which at specified intervals a self-examination performs.

at The fire alarms may in particular be smoke detectors, Flame detectors, fire gas detectors or heat detectors act, all are suitable to indicate a fire. Used especially frequently become smoke detectors. However, the invention is not limited to fire alarms, but basically refers more generally to hazard detectors in homes or properties, their functionality be checked from time to time should or should. In addition to the already mentioned fire detectors this can also moisture detectors or the like.

Smoke detectors are used in apartments or apartment-like or commercial premises, to present persons early before fires or to warn of smoke so that they are adapted to the risk event can react. To fires Being able to recognize in time becomes the installation of such smoke detectors in apartments in the new housing construction and also increasingly required by law in the housing stock. According to DIN standard 14676 "smoke detector for residential buildings, apartments and rooms with apartment-like Use - installation, Operation and maintenance "are Smoke alarm at least once a year to a functional test under drag. This exam is usually carried out by skilled personnel at the installation site in the apartment, but can also be carried out by the home user himself. It consists in usually from a visual inspection and an alarm check. The visual inspection aims at mechanical damage and contamination of the smoke intrusion openings and sees, if necessary a cleaning of the same before. The alarm check, with which the test key is used Simulation of smoke in a smoke detector chamber is triggered must lead to an audible alarm. The functional test can also associated with a change of the battery of the smoke alarm be.

The The above-described manual functional test has the disadvantage that it must be carried out at the installation site of the smoke alarm device. In case of execution by qualified personnel means the high personnel costs for the journey, Gaining access to the apartment and conducting the examination. The exam by the housing user carries the risk of a non-professional Execution. In addition, can in this case compliance with the norm prescribed by the standard Maintenance interval can not be ensured or documented.

Of the with the manual test associated expense leads in most cases also that the prescribed maximum maintenance interval in usually largely exhausted becomes. A more common one as the annual functional test is therefore practically not performed. A more frequent test, however, would be the functional safety raise, because possible losses a fire alarm can be detected faster. Due to the high manual testing can be associated with a more frequent functional test higher reliability The smoke detector therefore can not be reached.

From the DE 694 28 800 T2 is an optically operating smoke detector with a self-diagnosis known, with which it is checked whether the smoke detector system operates within its calibration limits. For this purpose, a self-diagnostic circuit based on a microprocessor is provided, which periodically checks the sensitivity of the optical receiver electronics to a smoke noise level. This eliminates the need for periodic manual calibration tests. In case of problems with the optical receiver electronics, the system provides a corresponding display. However, it is not possible to determine with this smoke detector whether the self-diagnosis has actually been carried out. Therefore, the smoke detector described there is not suitable to document the test carried out in accordance with the DIN regulations accordingly.

From the DE 10 2004 015 039 A1 a fire alarm system is known, which consists of a fire detector connected to a bus. A central control unit can initiate the inspection of the fire detector via the bus. For this purpose, the fire detector then controls an additional device output to a separate test device that simulates the fire by generating an artificial smoke gas cloud. The control panel connected to the bus then checks whether the fire detector triggers. However, such an installation with a wired bus system is very expensive and expensive and requires high-quality electronic equipment to use the fire detector and to check at regular intervals. This is not particularly suitable for private housing.

From the DE 299 19 926 U1 is an electronic smoke detector with a modular inflected wireless transmitter for wireless transmission of an alarm signal known to provide a cost-effective way to equip smoke detectors in the private housing area with radio-transmissible alarm signals. However, self-diagnosis is not possible with this smoke detector. There is also the risk that the subsequently attachable radio transmitter, for example, due to insufficient contact the Alarmaus solution of the smoke detector may not reliably transmit. In particular, the radio transmitter can also be removed or dropped, with the result that a possible alarm is no longer displayed.

task The invention is therefore the prescribed regular functional test of a smoke alarm to automate and create a cost effective way operability the smoke detector reliable to be able to determine.

These The object is achieved with the features of the independent claims 1 and 7 solved.

at the hazard or fire alarm is suggested that in the memory the self-test device the results of the self-examination are storable and that in the fire alarm or the self-test device a transmitting device is provided to the results of the self-test to send a receiving device. This is how the results stand the self-examination in the self-test device to disposal and are retrievable by a system or a person at any time, so that the statutory maintenance and checks of Fire alarms are easy to control and document. In addition, can be provided that in case of malfunction the results, for example sent directly in the form of alarms and / or by a corresponding display on the smoke alarm itself, eg. a yellow or red light emitting diode (LED) is displayed.

there is the self-test device preferably integrated with the fire alarm, i. in one casing recorded the fire alarm. That way, the reliability can be the self-test device elevated because the self-checking device through the housing protected by the fire alarm. Furthermore Fire detectors with integrated self-test device can be easier especially fire alarms with a self-sufficient energy supply, in particular a long-life battery are equipped, and therefore without additional Cabling effort to the desired Places can be attached. As a rule, it is sufficient for the fire alarm or danger detector and the self-checking device to provide a common long-term battery. However, it is according to the invention also possible, the fire alarm and the self-checking device by two separate Batteries to be supplied, preferably in case of failure of a battery the other battery takes over the power supply of the entire device.

In an alternative embodiment of the fire alarm, the self-test device also as a separate device be formed, which between the fire alarm and its Mounting surface, typically a ceiling, is appropriate.

To the Sending out the results of the self-examination may be the sending facility the fire alarm or the self-test device preferably as Be configured radio transmitter, the results of the self-examination as Send radio telegrams. To retrieve this, the fire alarm can in an easily realizable embodiment in addition also have a radio receiver, allowing bidirectional radio communication between the self-checking device and a reading device is built, which also equipped with radio receiver and transmitter is. Can do this at a regular review of the Fire alarm by a radio command simply the results of last self-examination (s) be retrieved from the memory. If necessary, the implementation of a current self-examination be initiated.

To the radio transmitters and receivers are preferred designed so that the remote control or remote reading also from outside an apartment triggered can be, for example, by a reader with a portable Trigger and / or display with radio transmitter and receiver. Across from a manual visual and functional test is thereby reduced the testing effort considerably, because the apartments of a property are no longer entered have to and with appropriate radio range, the self-tests of Smoke alarms of several apartments are triggered simultaneously can. The test results will be then immediately after execution The examination or transmit a retrieval signal by radio to the mobile reader. As a result, it is particularly according to the invention also possible, the maintenance and review of Hazard detectors in homes with in particular a radio-controlled consumption reading, For example, a heating costs, to integrate.

According to one particularly preferred embodiment has the self-tester processor, which in particular a microcontroller and the integrated Memory may have over a time module for the timed initiation of the self-test and / or Sending the results of the self-examination. Thus, the processor can the introspection time-controlled and for example monthly or weekly a functional test of the smoke detector. The result of self-examination can immediately sent out and / or as a value history with a time stamp be stored in the memory of the processor, so that all Values of previous functional checks can also be called up are. Furthermore a detected malfunction can also be directly on the Fire alarm, for example, be visually displayed.

In order to leads the Self-test device according to the invention via a Microcontroller with clock and calendar function as hardware or software may be executed in the microcontroller, controlled by This clock and calendar function at fixed intervals or programmable Sequences self-tests from, with the times and intervals of self-tests at the production and / or assembly, for example via a Parameterization interface are adjustable. Especially advantageous is it when the test results are stored with a time stamp in the memory of the self-test device, so that at a later Sending out the results of the self-checking the time the respective review is.

Preferably Therefore, the fire detector also has an interface for parameterization the self-test device on, in particular for entering a test scheme or more, for example executed at different times Testing schemes with different examination scope. The interface, for example an optical interface, can also for reading error messages and / or reading the results the self-examination be used.

The The invention further relates to a method for checking a fire alarm with a self-test device, which at specified intervals a self-examination performs. The inventive method is in particular to carry out in the case of the above-described fire alarm or other hazard detectors, especially in real estate or apartments, suitable. In which Methods according to the invention are the results the self-examination stored in the self-test device and transmitted at predetermined times for receipt by a separate receiving device.

A simple variant is a bidirectional radio communication, at the self-checking device and one as a device for reading designed receiving device each have a radio transmitter and receiver so that the stored results of the self-examination by means of a radio telegram requested at the self-test device and then through the Selbstprüfvorrich device for reception by the separate receiving device by means of a be sent out to other radio telegrams.

The Procedure leaves also arranged in combination with in a property Data collectors use the wired or wirelessly with consumption metering devices, in particular Heat cost allocators, electricity meters, water meters or like that, communicate. These data collectors can be set up according to the invention they will also see the results of the self-examination of the Fire alarm received and save for later reading with. The Data collectors can also the exam trigger the fire alarm at certain times and the test results then incidentally with received. The triggering times can be self-sufficient from the corresponding data collector and / or to a direct command formed, which, for example, in a Fernablese control room triggered and by remote data transmission is transmitted to the appropriate data collector. So be additional at short notice progress tests on request. in principle is a data collector in, for example, also only unidirectional radio communication, which is described below, suitable, by remote data transmission to enable a remote reading of the results of the self-examination.

A particularly cost-effective Variant of the proposed method can be realized, if the results of the self-examination through the self-checking device in a unidirectional radio communication. This type of data transfer is often used in the consumption value recording, so that the process of the invention especially good with usual Combine method for consumption reading. there can the results of the self-testing device as previously described by permanently installed data collector or by means of mobile receivers read out as receiving devices.

Then it is particularly advantageous if the transmission of the results of the self-examination takes place at predefinable intervals. In the case of a mobile readout, the radio telegrams with the result data of the self-test device must frequently be transmitted, so that the reception is also possible by means of mobile receivers, which in the case of the mobile Consumption value recording are used. Typically, such emissions can then take place approximately every 30 seconds, so that the radio telegrams are recorded at a conventional consumption value reading in the property without further measures. With stationary data collectors as a receiving device, however, few, preferably randomly distributed, transmissions are sufficient after the self-test has been carried out.

It is according to the invention Particularly advantageous if different test schemes with different Scope of testing can be specified. In addition, can the implementation a self-examination time-controlled, so that the self-test device is activated independently of external influences and, if appropriate, different test schemes at different times accomplished can be. If for example, a calendar-driven weekly self-review is performed, For example, this can be based on the electronic simulation of a Sensor signal and the electronic detection of the drive signal for the limited acoustic alarm become. About that In addition, once or twice a year calendar-driven with a full self-check a test substance, eg a test aerosol or a diffuser usable in the smoke alarm, and an acoustic alarm test carried out via a microphone. This can be the advantage of frequent checking with the conservation of resources (test substance, Battery charge). In addition, a radio can also be used triggered introspection adjustable in scope of testing be, with the scope of testing is specified in the radio command.

Especially It is advantageous if it by means of suitable test equipment possible is, all Check components of the fire alarm. The test equipment of the self-test device can preferably be designed such that the self-test the complete smoke detector with all components involved and Function groups, from the smoke sensor itself all the way up to the audible alarm or parts thereof.

Of the Smoke sensor can work, for example, according to the scattered light principle, wherein a light source and a light receiver are provided, which in the normal state are arranged such that emitted by the light source Light in the light receiver not received. Only when smoke enters the fire alarm, Part of the light is reflected and detected by the light sensor. In this case it is possible the function of the fire alarm by spraying a suitable test aerosol or the like, because after spraying the appropriate test substance that on the test substance reflected light would have to be detected.

Further could the test light be simulated by a second light source in the smoke alarm. It would be it for redundancy reasons particularly advantageous if in each case two smoke sensor pairs, respectively consisting of light source and light detector, so in the smoke alarm are arranged, that the light source of the first smoke sensor pair as a smoke detector with the light detector of the first smoke sensor pair works together and the light detector of the second smoke sensor pair as a test sensor for the Light source of the first smoke sensor pair is formed. Corresponding can for the second smoke sensor pair apply, so that a redundant smoke sensor arrangement is reached.

Farther For example, through connections on the microcontroller of the processor itself, the battery voltage of the smoke detector. This can be the discharge state and the pulse load behavior of the battery the smoke detector checked become. Furthermore, the acoustic alarm can by providing a suitable microphones are checked. In this case, the turn-on of the alarm or the Siren according to the invention so short be held that these - provided the review is not performed in normal rest periods will - from the resident or user of a property is not noticed at all. This can be triggered the self-examination can also be linked to the output of a daylight sensor, so that a possibly unavoidable noise nuisance does not occur at night.

The Invention thus automates the functional testing of fire alarms or other hazard detectors through a self-examination and allows a Further rationalization of functional testing through their integration in others, anyway in the building ongoing service processes, such as the radio remote reading of consumption meters. This leads to an optimization of the operating costs prescribed by law Smoke alarm or the like. In addition, the Invention by the automation of a higher frequency testing, which the reliability thereby increasing a fire alarm, that in the event of a defect the fire or smoke detector will be faster can be exchanged.

Further Features, advantages and applications of the above Invention will become apparent from the following description of a embodiment and the drawing. All described or illustrated features form for themselves the subject matter of the present invention, also independent of the summary in the claims or their remittances.

The only 1 shows schematically a smoke detector according to the invention with a self-test device.

The trained as a smoke alarm fire detector 1 has an open by not shown smoke-penetrating openings to the outside test chamber 2 on, in the case of a fire, smoke, by smoke sensor pairs 3 . 4 is detected. A smoke sensor pair 3 . 4 consists of a designed as an LED light source 5 and a light detector formed as a photodiode 6 , Here are the light source 5 and the light detector 6 of each smoke sensor pair 3 . 4 so arranged that by the light source 5 emitted light not directly on the light detector 6 same smoke sensor pair 3 . 4 falls. Due to black walls of the test chamber 2 no stray light also reaches the light sensor. But fills the test chamber 2 with smoke, then part of the test light is the light source 5 on the light sensor 6 scattered by the same light detector, thus detecting the presence of smoke.

For checking the smoke detector 1 is a self-test device 9 provided that a processor 8th having a microcontroller and a memory. To check the smoke detector 1 can be controlled by the processor 8th a test aerosol 7 into the test chamber 2 be poured in, so that by a light source 5 emitted light on the light detector 6 same smoke sensor pair 3 . 4 is detected. By such a test, the normal function of the smoke alarm is simulated in case of fire, which may additionally be provided that the test aerosol must flow through the openings provided for the smoke inlet openings in the test chamber. In this way, the smoke intrusion openings are checked for contamination by dust or lint.

A second test principle can be achieved by the pair of smoke sensors 3 . 4 realize, with the light source 5 of the smoke sensor pair 3 is arranged so that it is directly on the light detector 6 of the smoke sensor pair 4 irradiates. Accordingly, the light source 5 of the smoke sensor pair 4 arranged such that its light emitted directly to the light detector 6 of the first smoke sensor pair 3 incident. In this way, by the light source 5 and the light detector 6 of the smoke sensor pair 4 the function of the components 5 . 6 of the smoke sensor pair 3 be completely checked.

Should prove during the functional test that one of the two components 5 . 6 of the smoke sensor pair 3 not working, the processor can 6 a conversion of the smoke sensor pair used to the smoke sensor pair 4 until maintenance is done and the smoke sensor pair 3 is repaired. Alternatively, the processor 8th for normal smoke detection also alternating with the smoke sensor pair 3 and the smoke sensor pair 4 work, leaving a failure of the complete smoke alarm 1 is unlikely due to the intended redundancy.

In addition, an alarm triggering sensor output signal may be provided, for example, by the processor 8th generated electronically and fed into the transmitter to make only a check of the electronic circuit. Furthermore, in addition, a visual inspection of the smoke-penetrating openings for contamination can take place, for example, by means of a light barrier. For this purpose, it is possible to detect the existing ambient light through the smoke penetration opening.

The smoke detector 1 also has an unillustrated audible alarm, which upon stimulation of the smoke alarm 1 via a likewise not shown microphone by self-test device 9 can be checked.

The self-examination by the self-checking device 9 is calendar-and clock-controlled. This is indicated by the processor 8th a corresponding timer.

The test result of a self-test is in the memory, not shown, of the processor 8th stored for retrieval or transmission.

From this memory, the results of the self-examination by means of a transmitting device 10 transmitted by radio at regular time intervals of, for example, 30 seconds, so that they are equipped with a mobile receiving device 11 can be received with appropriate radio receiver. This unidirectional radio communication is also used by consumer detection devices to communicate with the mobile receiving device 11 Consumption read, for example, from heat cost allocators, electricity meters, water meters or the like.

The smoke alarm 1 is therefore particularly suitable, a method for checking the smoke alarm 1 with a self-checking device 9 perform a self-test at predetermined intervals and the results of the self-test in a microcontroller and a memory having processor 8th stores. These results are then transmitted by a transmitter 10 sent out at predeterminable times to a receiving device 11 to be received. Instead of the described mobile receiving device 11 It is also possible to use stationary data collectors which receive and manage the self-test results sent out. Basically, a bi-directional, wireless or wired communication to retrieve the results of the self-examination is conceivable.

By the system according to the invention it is therefore easy to even tests to make a hazard alarm and according to the legal requirements Document standard regulations.

1

Fire- or smoke detector

2

test chamber

3

Smoke sensor pair

4

Smoke sensor pair

5

Light source LED

6

Light detector photodiode

7

Aerosol testing

8th

processor

9

Selbstprüfvorrichtung

10

transmitting device

11

Receiving device, mobile receiver

Claims (12)

Fire alarm with a self-test device ( 9 ) for functional testing of the fire alarm ( 1 ), the self-checking device ( 9 ) Test equipment ( 7 . 4 ) for generating test signals, a processor set up to perform the self-test ( 8th ) and a memory, characterized in that in the memory the results of the self-test can be stored and a transmitting device ( 10 ) is provided to pass the results of the self-test to a receiving device ( 11 ) to send. Fire alarm according to claim 1, characterized in that the self-testing device ( 9 ) in the fire alarm ( 1 ) is integrated. Fire alarm according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the transmitting device ( 10 ) is a radio transmitter. Fire alarm according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the processor ( 8th ) has a time module for timed initiation of the self-examination and / or transmission of the results of the self-examination. Fire alarm according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fire alarm ( 1 ) an interface for the parameterization of the self-test device ( 9 ) having. Procedure for checking a fire alarm ( 1 ) with a self-test device ( 9 ), which carries out self-checking at predefinable intervals, characterized in that the results of the self-testing in the self-testing device ( 9 ) and at predetermined times for receipt by a separate receiving device ( 11 ) are sent out. Method according to claim 6, characterized in that the results of the self-examination by the self-checking device ( 9 ) are transmitted in a unidirectional radio communication. A method according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the transmission takes place at predeterminable intervals, so that the reception by mobile reception devices ( 11 ) is possible. Method according to one of claims 6 to 8, characterized that different testing schemes with different scope of testing can be specified. Method according to one of claims 6 to 9, characterized that's carrying a self-examination timed. Method according to one of claims 9 or 10, characterized that different test schemes are executed at different times. Method according to one of claims 6 to 11, characterized that by means of suitable test equipment all Components of the fire alarm are checked.