EP2879104B2 - Auxiliary device for a punctual danger alarm for the monitoring of the function of the danger alarm and use of a such device - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to an additional device for a hazard detector designed as a point detector for monitoring the function of the hazard detector. The hazard detector is in particular a smoke detector or smoke gas detector.

Furthermore, the invention relates to an arrangement of a hazard detector designed as a point detector and of an additional device that is constructively and/or connected to it and attached to the hazard detector.

Finally, the invention relates to the use of such an additional device to monitor the surroundings of the alarm for flow-shielding objects, to monitor at least one entry opening of the alarm for dirt and, if necessary, to monitor the function of an acoustic alarm of the alarm.

From the US patent application U.S. 2009/0243843 A1 describes a device that has a mounting base and a smoke detector that can be detachably attached thereto. An ultrasonic transmitter and an opposing ultrasonic receiver are attached to the mounting base in such a way that at least part of the smoke detector, such as the smoke chamber, lies between them. Changing the shape of the smoke detector, such as covering it with a plastic bag, will produce a different modulation or profile of the spatially transmitted ultrasonic energy. This change can be detected locally and used to generate an indication of an obstacle. In a local embodiment according to FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 Ultrasonic energy is directed at the smoke aperture area of a smoke detector, causing some of that energy to pass through the smoke chamber in the smoke detector passes through and exits again. This portion of the ultrasonic energy is then detected in spatially modulated form by a receiver located opposite the transmitter.

The hazard alarms considered are preferably smoke alarms, smoke gas alarms or smoke alarms. Such hazard alarms typically have an optical detector unit that works according to the scattered light principle for detecting smoke particles. Alternatively or additionally, they can have a detector unit working according to the acousto-optical principle or a gas sensor for detecting gases typical of a fire. Furthermore, such hazard alarms can have a temperature sensor for detecting impermissibly high temperatures in the vicinity of the hazard alarm.

Furthermore, the hazard alarms under consideration can be connected to a hazard alarm center via a common alarm line or alarm line, in particular via a two-wire line, in terms of signals and/or data technology. Alternatively or additionally, they can have an autonomous energy supply, such as a battery. Furthermore, such hazard detectors can have a radio module for transmitting an alarm message, a warning message or status information to a neighboring hazard detector or to a hazard alarm center. They can also be set up to forward an alarm message, warning message or status information transmitted by radio from a neighboring hazard detector to a neighboring hazard detector or to a hazard detection center in the sense of routing.

According to the DIN 14676 standard, "smoke alarm devices for residential buildings, apartments and rooms similar to apartments - installation, operation and maintenance" must be checked at least once a year by means of a mandatory visual and functional test. The subject of the check is, on the one hand, that there are no disturbing objects in the vicinity of the smoke alarm device, such as within a radius of half a meter around the alarm device, which could shield the smoke for the smoke to be detected in the event of a fire. If, on the other hand, there are entry openings in the housing of such a hazard detector, the permeability of these entry openings for smoke or smoke gas must also be checked regularly. Such smoke alarm devices can also be checked automatically.

Proceeding from the state of the art mentioned at the outset, it is an object of the invention to specify a device which simplifies an automated regular check of such alarm indicators.

It is a further object of the invention to specify a device which enables subsequent standard-compliant functional monitoring of a hazard alarm, in particular a smoke alarm, in a simple manner.

Finally, an object of the invention is to specify a suitable arrangement with such a device and a suitable use of such a device.

These objects are solved by the subject matter of the independent patent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the present invention are described in the dependent claims.

The object of the invention is achieved by an additional device for a hazard detector designed as a point detector. The additional device is a separate unit that can be attached to the hazard alarm and is provided for monitoring the function of the hazard alarm. According to the invention, the device has a plurality of transmitting and receiving units distributed in the circumferential direction around the hazard detector, the transmitting and receiving units being arranged in a lateral outer area of the hazard detector remote from the hazard detector for detecting objects in the vicinity of the hazard detector. The device has an evaluation unit connected thereto, the evaluation unit is set up to control the respective transmission units to emit a signal in the vicinity of the hazard detector, to time-evaluate a respective signal originating from the receiver units and reflected by objects in the vicinity of the hazard detector, and to output a first message if a detected object is within a specified range distance around the alarm and when the reflected signal exceeds a predetermined minimum level. The transmitting and receiving units are arranged in a lateral outer area of the hazard detector remote from the hazard detector for detecting objects in the vicinity of the hazard detector. When included, the alarm and the ancillary device share a common axis of symmetry. The hazard detector is designed to be rotationally symmetrical. The additional device protrudes in a lateral, radial direction away from the axis of symmetry in a range of 1 cm to 5 cm beyond the outer dimensions of the alarm device.

The core of the invention is that a conventional hazard alarm, in particular a smoke alarm, which does not have any automatic function monitoring for flow-shielding objects in its vicinity, can be retrofitted with this function. If an object is detected in the vicinity of the hazard detector, a first message can then be issued. This can be done, for example, by activating an optical and/or acoustic display unit on the additional device itself and/or by radio to a higher-level hazard warning center.

As a result, uninterrupted or at least almost uninterrupted monitoring of the surroundings of the hazard detector for flow-shielding objects is advantageously possible. The transmitting units and/or receiving units are preferably distributed evenly in the circumferential direction. The distance between an object and the hazard detector can be determined using the echo principle by means of a time evaluation.

According to one embodiment, the device has a central receptacle, in particular a base, for receiving the hazard alarm. Typically, the hazard detectors designed as point detectors are designed for particularly detachable mounting on a base or detector base. This simplifies the assembly work considerably.

It is particularly advantageous if the additional device forms a detector base that is compatible in terms of design and connection technology.

"Connection-wise" means that electrical contact is made with detector contacts of the recorded hazard detector. Typically, smoke detectors used in commercial settings are not set up to sound an audible alarm. Rather, they are set up for operation on a common detector line or detector line, in particular on a two-wire line. The signal and/or data transmission of an alarm detected by the hazard detector or a warning to a connected higher-level hazard detection center then takes place via this detector line. This detector line, which is also referred to as the detector bus, is also used to supply the connected hazard detector with electrical power. Such alarms are usually also referred to as smoke alarms in contrast to smoke alarms with acoustic alarm output in the non-commercial sector according to the DIN 14676 standard.

Data communication with the recorded hazard detector is possible by making electrical contact with the recorded hazard detector on the additional device according to the invention or by attaching the additional device according to the invention to such a hazard detector. The additional device according to the invention can have the function of a hazard warning center or act like a hazard warning center. Alternatively or additionally, a electrical power supply of the recorded hazard detector carried out by the contacted additional device.

As an alternative or in addition, the additional device can have a base receptacle that is structurally compatible and possibly in terms of connection technology, in order to attach the additional device to a detector base for simplified installation.

If the additional device has both a base or detector base for a hazard detector to be accommodated and a preferably opposite base receptacle for mounting the additional device on a base, such an additional device can also be referred to as a "base".

The additional device according to the invention is preferably designed in the form of a ring or ring segment or polygon. Such an additional device can therefore also be referred to as an additional ring. The attachment stands in a range of 1 cm to 5 cm in the lateral direction. Directions away from a main structural axis of the recorded hazard detector are referred to as “laterally”. Since the majority of the known hazard detectors are designed to be essentially rotationally symmetrical, the additional device also extends in the radial direction beyond the outer lateral dimensions of the hazard detector in a range of 1 cm to 5 cm. In this case, the hazard detector and additional device have a common structural main axis or axis of symmetry.

According to an alternative embodiment to the previous embodiment, the device is designed for laterally enclosing the hazard alarm. As a result, the device can be placed on the already installed hazard detector without covering it. The inner contour of the additional device is preferably matched to the lateral outer contour of the hazard detector to be framed at the side.

The evaluation unit can also be set up to weight the respective received reflected signals. In this case, reflected signals from objects that are closer to the hazard detector can be weighted more highly than objects at the edge of the monitored environment. The evaluation unit is preferably set up to only issue the first message when an object is permanently detected within the monitored environment. By "permanently" is meant a minimum time of presence of several minutes, hours, or days.

According to one embodiment, the at least one transmitting unit is an optical transmitting unit, such as an LED, in particular an LED emitting infrared light, and the at least one receiving unit is an optical receiving unit, in particular a spectrally sensitive photodiode thereon. Both units can be combined into one structural unit.

Alternatively or additionally, the at least one transmission unit can be an acoustic transmission unit, such as an ultrasound transmitter, and the at least one reception unit can be an acoustic reception unit, in particular an ultrasound receiver. Both units can also be combined into one structural unit as an ultrasonic transceiver.

Alternatively or additionally, the at least one transmission unit can be a microwave transmitter and the at least one reception unit can be a microwave receiver. Both units can also be combined into one radar unit.

According to a further embodiment, the device has an optical scanning device for one or more entry openings of a received or enclosed hazard alarm. It also has an evaluation unit connected thereto, ie an evaluation unit connected thereto in terms of data or signals. The evaluation unit is set up to issue a second message in the event that impermissible contamination is detected. The scanning preferably takes place optically and in particular with infrared light. The optical scanning of the entry opening takes place outside of the recorded hazard detector, ie from the outside.

In particular, the optical scanning device has a light transmitter, in particular an infrared LED, for emitting a highly focused light beam. The light transmitter is aligned in such a way that its light beam passes the at least one entry opening at a small distance. "Low" preferably means a distance value from the entry opening in the range from 1 mm to 10 mm. The optical scanning device also has a light receiver, in particular a photodiode for infrared light. It is provided and aligned to receive scattered light from contamination from the area of the at least one entry opening. The evaluation unit connected to the light transmitter and light receiver is set up to issue a second message if a received signal originating from the light receiver exceeds a predetermined minimum level. In other words, the second message is issued when there is sufficient scattered light from the contamination in front of the entry opening.

As an alternative to the previous embodiment, the optical scanning device can have a plurality of light transmitters, in particular infrared LEDs, each for emitting a highly concentrated light beam. The respective light transmitter is aligned in such a way that its light beam passes through at least one entry opening at a short distance. "Small" preferably means a distance from the entrance opening in the range of 1 mm to 10 mm. The optical scanning device has a plurality of light receivers, in particular photodiodes sensitive to infrared light, for receiving scattered light from contamination from the region of the at least one entry opening. The evaluation unit connected to the light emitters and light receivers is set up to use the data coming from the respective light receivers Evaluate received signals and issue a second message if the result of the assessment exceeds a predetermined comparison value. This advantageously avoids the output of the second message if only one received signal exceeds a minimum level. The second message is preferably only output when half or the majority of the available received signals exceed the minimum level.

According to a particular embodiment, the device has a contact-based and/or wireless communication interface for data communication between a control unit of the recorded hazard alarm and an evaluation unit of the additional device.

At the same time, the communication interface with contacts can be an already existing interface of a hazard detector, which is provided for contacting the hazard detector via its detector contacts on a detector line or on a detector bus. The interface with contacts can also be a separate interface which, after the hazard detector has been attached to the additional device, makes contact with corresponding counter-contacts of the additional device.

The wireless communication interface can, for example, be a so-called NFC interface (for Near Field Communication), which enables data to be transmitted in an inductively coupled way to and from another NFC interface in the recorded hazard detector within a few centimeters. In addition, electrical energy can be transmitted in this way from the additional device to the hazard detector for the electrical supply of the hazard detector.

In principle, both communication interfaces allow the evaluation unit of the additional device to access the control unit of the recorded hazard alarm in terms of data technology. With the appropriate configuration of the hazard detector this allows indirect access to the output and input units of the hazard detector.

According to a further embodiment, the device has a plurality of light transmitters arranged in a distributed manner, each for emitting a light bundle. The respective light bundle is directed onto the at least one entry opening of a hazard detector that is held or surrounded. The light beam preferably comes from an infrared LED. The evaluation unit for activating the light transmitter is connected to these and set up to output a second message if a light reception signal transmitted by the hazard detector via the communication interface and originating from a light receiver inside the hazard detector falls below a predetermined value. Preferably, the light receiver inside the hazard detector is at the same time a light receiver provided for detecting scattered light smoke. As a result, it is advantageously possible to check the permeability of the at least one entry opening in the hazard alarm.

According to an advantageous embodiment, the device has an acoustic alarm and/or an alarm flasher. The evaluation unit is set up to receive, via the communication interface, in the event of an alarm, an alarm signal output by the recorded or framed hazard detector, in order to activate the acoustic alarm transmitter and/or alarm flasher in the event of an alarm. The communication interface can, for example, be an existing interface of a hazard detector, which is provided for contacting the hazard detector via its detector contacts on a detector line or on a detector bus.

The additional device also has means for acoustically or electrically checking the acoustic alarm transmitter and/or means for optically checking the alarm flasher. In the acoustic case, the means can then be a microphone whose emitted microphone signal is checked by the evaluation unit for the presence of a predetermined audio frequency and volume level is checked. Alternatively, the means may be an electrical signal detector which checks for the presence of electrical excitation signals for the siren. In the optical case, the means can be one of the optical receiving units for monitoring the surroundings or one of the light receivers for monitoring pollution.

Furthermore, the device is set up to repeatedly monitor the functionality of the acoustic alarm device and/or the alarm flasher, e.g. weekly, monthly, quarterly, etc. The evaluation unit is set up to issue a third message if the functional check of the acoustic alarm sounder and/or the alarm flasher has failed.

According to a further embodiment, the additional device has a radio module, a motion detector, a smoke gas sensor, a temperature sensor, a loudspeaker, an acoustic alarm, an alarm flasher, emergency lighting and/or a battery. As a result, the range of functions of the additional device according to the invention can advantageously be expanded to include further safety and comfort functions.

The object of the invention is also achieved by an arrangement of a hazard detector designed as a point detector and an additional device according to the invention that is constructively and/or connected to it and attached to the hazard detector.

Particularly advantageous is the use of an additional device according to the invention for monitoring the surroundings of the alarm for flow-shielding objects, for monitoring at least one entry opening of the alarm for dirt and optionally for monitoring the function of an acoustic alarm and/or alarm flasher of the hazard detector. In particular, the hazard detector is then a smoke detector.

FIG 1

ein Beispiel für eine erste und zweite Ausführungsform einer Anordnung aus einer Zusatzeinrichtung und aus einem aufgenommenen Gefahrenmelder gemäss der Erfindung in einer Seitenansicht,

FIG 2

das Beispiel gemäss FIG 1 in einer Draufsicht,

FIG 3

die beispielhafte erste Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemässen Anordnung gemäss FIG 1 in einer Detailansicht und in einer Explosionsdarstellung,

FIG 4

das Beispiel gemäss FIG 3 im betriebsbereiten Zustand der erfindungsgemässen Anordnung,

FIG 5

die beispielhafte zweite Ausführungsform der erfindungsgemässen Anordnung gemäss FIG 1 in einer Detailansicht und in einer Explosionsdarstellung,

FIG 6

das Beispiel gemäss FIG 4 und FIG 5 in einer Draufsicht und in einer gemeinsamen Darstellung,

FIG 7

ein Beispiel für eine dritte Ausführungsform einer Anordnung aus einer Zusatzeinrichtung und aus einem eingefassten Gefahrenmelder gemäss der Erfindung,

FIG 8

das Beispiel gemäss FIG 7 in einer Draufsicht,

FIG 9

ein weiteres Beispiel für eine erste Ausführungsform der Anordnung mit einer ersten Variante einer Verschmutzungsüberwachung gemäss der Erfindung,

FIG 10

ein weiteres Beispiel für eine erste Ausführungsform der Anordnung mit einer zweiten Variante einer Verschmutzungsüberwachung gemäss der Erfindung und

FIG 11

ein beispielhaftes Funktionsschema für alle Anordnungen aus einer beispielhaften Zusatzeinrichtung mit einer Reihe von möglichen Erweiterungsmodulen und aus einem Gefahrenmelder gemäss der Erfindung.

The invention and advantageous embodiments of the present invention are evident from the example of the following figures. show it

FIG 1

an example of a first and second embodiment of an arrangement of an additional device and of a recorded danger detector according to the invention in a side view,

FIG 2

the example according to FIG 1 in a top view,

3

the exemplary first embodiment of the inventive arrangement according to FIG 1 in a detailed view and in an exploded view,

FIG 4

the example according to 3 in the operational state of the arrangement according to the invention,

5

the exemplary second embodiment of the arrangement according to the invention FIG 1 in a detailed view and in an exploded view,

6

the example according to FIG 4 and 5 in a plan view and in a joint representation,

FIG 7

an example of a third embodiment of an arrangement of an additional device and a cased alarm according to the invention,

8

the example according to FIG 7 in a top view,

9

a further example of a first embodiment of the arrangement with a first variant of a contamination monitoring according to the invention,

10

a further example of a first embodiment of the arrangement with a second variant of pollution monitoring according to the invention and

11

an exemplary functional diagram for all arrangements from an exemplary additional device with a number of possible expansion modules and from a hazard detector according to the invention.

FIG 1 shows an example of a first and second embodiment of an arrangement A1, A2 from an additional device R1, R2 and from a recorded danger alarm M according to the invention in a side view. The hazard detector M shown is designed as a point detector and in the present example a smoke detector. The hazard detector M is designed to be attached to the additional device R1, R2 shown. The two arrangements A1, A2 differ only in that the respectively associated additional device R1, R2 according to the invention is designed for mounting on a base or for mounting on the ceiling D shown without a base. The different arrangements A1, A2 are detailed in the figures 3 to 5 shown.

According to the invention, the additional device R1, R2 is a separate unit that can be attached to the hazard detector M and is provided for monitoring the function of the hazard detector M. The additional device R1, R2 shown has, for example, five transmission units S and five reception units E (see FIG 2 ) for the detection of objects OB in the vicinity of the hazard detector M. In the present example, a rod-shaped object OB is detected within a predetermined hemispherical monitoring area UR around the hazard detector M. To do this, the transmission units S send signals into the vicinity of the hazard detector (symbolized by arrows). The signals reflected by the rod-shaped object OB (symbolized by dashed arrows) are detected by the receiving units E. An evaluation unit of the additional device, not shown in this illustration, determines this then, on the basis of the reflected signals, whether the detected object is within the surveillance area UR and whether this is suitable for effecting flow shielding of the hazard detector with regard to smoke detection.

In the present example, the transmitting units S and receiving units E are ultrasonic transmitters and ultrasonic receivers. The transmitter and receiver can also be combined into one structural unit as an ultrasonic transceiver.

FIG 2 shows the example according to FIG 1 in a top view. It shows an evenly distributed arrangement of the light transmitters S and light receivers E in the circumferential direction of the recorded hazard alarm M. This makes it possible to monitor the surroundings of the hazard alarm M almost completely.

3 shows the exemplary first embodiment of the arrangement A1 according to the invention FIG 1 in a detailed view and in an exploded view. In the upper part of the 3 a per se known detector base SO can be seen, which simplifies the installation of hazard detectors on a ceiling D. Underneath, an additional device R1 according to the first embodiment is shown, which already allows a base receptacle SA for attaching the additional device R1 to the base SO. At the same time, the additional device R1 has a central receptacle on its opposite side, which structurally corresponds to the detector base SO above it. In the present example, the lower part of the 3 Smoke detector M shown can be attached both directly to the upper base SO and to the additional device R1. The additional device R1 according to the invention can thus also be referred to as a "base" according to the technical term for such devices. In the present example, the additional device R1 has a cylindrical or cylindrical-conical design.

FIG 4 shows the example according to 3 in the operational state of the inventive arrangement A1. In this representation it is particularly easy to see how the additional device R1 monitors the area around the recorded hazard detector M for flow-shielding objects OB.

In the FIG 4 RA denotes a lateral outer area that is remote from the hazard detector M and extends a few centimeters beyond the lateral outer contour AM of the hazard detector M recorded. AR designates the radial outer edge of the additional device R1. BAT designates batteries that are provided for the energy supply of the additional device R1. They are also used to supply power to the recorded hazard detector M via detector contacts (not shown in more detail) in the detector base SO.

5 shows the exemplary second embodiment of the arrangement A2 according to the invention FIG 1 in a detailed view and in an exploded view. In contrast to 3 The base mount SA for attaching the additional device R2 to the ceiling, for example, is missing here.

6 shows the example according to FIG 4 and 5 in a plan view and in a joint representation. This representation shows the uniform distribution of the transmitting and receiving units S, E, each of which is combined here to form a structural unit. A first communication interface is denoted by KS1, which advantageously corresponds to a detector interface already provided for the smoke detector M accommodated. On the one hand, this enables data transmission between the evaluation unit of the additional device R1, R2 and a control unit of the smoke detector M. On the other hand, this interface KS1 can also be used to supply electrical energy to the smoke alarm M that is accommodated by the additional device R1, R2.

FIG 7 shows an example of a third embodiment of an arrangement A3 from an additional device R3 and from a bordered hazard detector M. Like FIG FIG 7 shows, the accessory R1 is now a ring for side framing of the hazard detector M trained. The inner contour of the ring-shaped additional device R3 is matched to the lateral outer contour AM of the bordered hazard detector M.

8 shows the example according to FIG 7 in a top view. In this representation, the ring shape of the exemplary additional device R3 can be seen particularly well. the 8 Figure 10 further shows a series of batteries for powering the accessory R3. The additional device R3 and the enclosed hazard detector M can each have a wireless communication interface KS2 for data transmission. On the one hand, data transmission between the evaluation unit of the additional device R3 and a control unit of the smoke detector M is possible via this wireless communication interface KS2. On the other hand, this interface KS2 can also be used to supply electrical energy to the smoke detector M that is accommodated in an inductively coupled manner by means of the additional device R3. A circular coil, which is preferably concentric to one another, can be arranged both in the additional device R3 and in the recorded hazard detector M for data transmission and, if necessary, for energy transmission. The respective coils can be implemented in the form of conductor tracks on a respective circuit board of the additional device and of the hazard detector M.

9 shows another example of a first embodiment of the arrangement A1 with a first variant of a contamination monitor according to the invention. For this purpose, the additional device R1 shown has an optical scanning device SV, EV for an entry opening OF of the recorded hazard alarm M and an evaluation unit SER, which is not shown in more detail and is connected thereto. The evaluation unit is set up to output a second message M2 in the event that impermissible contamination V is detected.

In the present example, the device has a plurality of light transmitters SV arranged in a distributed manner, each for emitting a light beam which is directed at the at least one entry opening OF is directed. The evaluation unit is connected to the light transmitters SV for activating the light transmitters SV and is also set up to output a second message M2 if a light reception signal transmitted by the hazard detector M via the communication interface and originating from a light receiver SV inside the hazard detector M has a predetermined value falls below As in the left part of the 9 can be seen, the light arriving in the entry opening OF strikes dirt V, so that insufficient light reaches the light receiver EV arranged inside the hazard detector M. This is therefore an indication of impermissible contamination V in the area of the inlet opening OF shown. On the other hand, the light emitted by the right-hand light transmitter SV reaches the additional light receiver EV in sufficient quantity inside the hazard detector M. The associated entry opening OF is therefore largely free of dirt V.

The second message is preferably suppressed when half or the majority of the received signals provided at the light receivers EV exceed the minimum level.

10 shows another example of a first embodiment of the arrangement A1 with a second variant of a contamination monitor according to the invention.

In this case, the optical scanning device SEV has a plurality of light transmitters SV, each for emitting a highly concentrated light beam, with the respective light transmitter SV being aligned in such a way that its light beam passes at least one entry opening OF at a short distance. The light transmitter SV is preferably an infrared LED or an infrared laser diode. The optical scanning device SEV also has a number of light receivers EV for receiving scattered light from dirt V from the area of the at least one entry opening OF. The evaluation unit is connected to the light transmitters SV and light receivers EV in terms of signals. It is also set up to To evaluate received signals originating from light receivers EV and to output a second message M2 if the result of the evaluation exceeds a predetermined comparison value.

In the left part of 10 it can be seen how scattered light is detected at the left entrance opening OF, while in the right part of the 10 the emitted light beam passes through the entry opening OF which is free of contamination V. As a result, no appreciable scattered light signal can be detected by the associated light receiver in the additional device R1. In the present example, a light transmitter and a light receiver are each realized as a common component SEV.

11 shows an exemplary functional diagram for all arrangements A1-A3 from an exemplary additional device R1-R3 with a number of possible expansion modules and from a hazard alarm M according to the invention.

The additional device R1-R3 according to the invention typically has a microcontroller as the evaluation unit SER. It also typically has a number of digital as well as analog input and output channels.

The additional device R1-R3 can, for example, have a radio module FM, which is connected to the evaluation unit via a communication bus. This can be used to output the first to third M1-M3 messages, e.g. to a higher-level alarm control panel. The other way round, for example, changes can be made to the firmware of the SER evaluation unit or operating parameters can be adjusted.

The additional device R1-R3 can have a manual button on the outside for testing the additional device R1-R3 or the connected hazard detector M.

Furthermore, the additional device R1-R3 can have a motion detector, for example to detect the presence of people. If necessary, an alarm message can be sent via the FM radio module if the additional device R1-R3 is switched to a mode to monitor for intruders, for example using the manual button.

The additional device R1-R3 can also have a microphone for monitoring an acoustic alarm. The microphone can also be used for room surveillance in the sense of a "baby monitor".

The additional device R1-R3 can also have a camera. This can be used as a receiving unit to detect flow-shielding objects in the vicinity of the hazard detector, e.g. by comparing previous recordings.

Furthermore, the additional device R1-R3 can have a CO gas detector. If increased CO levels are detected, an alarm or warning message can then be issued.

The additional device R1-R3 can also have a temperature sensor. If a high temperature is detected, an alarm message can also be issued.

The additional device R1-R3 can have a loudspeaker for outputting stored voice messages in the event of an alarm. Depending on the messages M1-M3, for example, a message "Please remove objects in the area of the hazard detector", "Please remove dirt from the hazard detector" or "Please have the hazard detector checked" can be output.

Furthermore, the additional device R1-R3 according to the invention can have emergency lighting. This can have several white LEDs. For example, in the event of a fire, the emergency lighting can be switched on at night for orientation.

In the right part of 11 the structure of a hazard detector M is shown schematically. The control unit of the hazard detector M is denoted by SEM. She is typically the same a microcontroller. The hazard alarm M can, for example, have a battery BAT for self-sufficient energy supply. Alternatively or additionally, a battery interface BS with contacts can be present, via which the hazard detector M can be supplied with energy after it has been attached to the additional device R1-R3.

If the hazard detector M is a smoke detector for operation on a detector line, typically in the commercial sector, there is no acoustic alarm device symbolized as a loudspeaker and a button for testing the smoke detector.

With the additional device R1-R3 according to the invention, a smoke detector intended for fire detection in the commercial sector and for operation on a detector line or on a detector bus can advantageously be expanded to include the functionality of automated environmental monitoring for flow-shielding objects and dirt monitoring of the entry openings of the smoke detector.

Reference List

A1-A3

arrangement

AT THE

Outer contour of the hazard detector

AR

outer edge

BAT

battery

BS

battery connection

D

ceiling

E

receiving unit

EV

light receiver

FM

radio module

KS1, KS2

communication interface

M

Hazard detector, smoke detector, smoke alarm

M1-M3

messages

N

insect net

IF

object

OF

entry opening

OM

optical measuring chamber

P

circuit board

R1-R3

additional equipment

RA

lateral outdoor area

S

transmitter unit

SA

recording, base recording

SE

transmitter/receiver unit

S.E.M

Control unit of the hazard detector

SER

Evaluation unit of the additional device

SEV

light transmitter/receiver

SO

Base, detector base

SV

light transmitter

ur

Monitoring area around the hazard detector

V

pollution

Claims (13)

1. Auxiliary device for a hazard alarm (M) constructed as a point type detector, wherein the device is a separate unit that can be attached to the hazard alarm (M) and is provided to monitor the operation of the hazard alarm (M), wherein the device has a plurality of transmitting and receiving units (S, E, SE) distributed in the circumferential direction around the hazard alarm (M), and wherein the device has an evaluation unit (SER) connected thereto, wherein the evaluation unit (SER) is adapted

   - to control the respective transmitting units (S) to output a signal in the vicinity of the hazard alarm (M),

   - to evaluate in terms of time a respective signal originating from the receiving units (E) and reflected at objects (OB) in the vicinity of the hazard alarm (M), and

   - to output a first alarm signal (M1) if a detected object (OB) is located within a predefined distance around the hazard alarm (M) and if the reflected signal exceeds a predefined minimum level,

   characterised in that

   - the transmitting and receiving units (S, E, SE) are arranged in a lateral outer region (RA) of the hazard alarm (M) located at a distance from the hazard alarm (M) for the detection of objects (OB) in the vicinity of the hazard alarm (M),

   - when received, the hazard alarm (M) and the auxiliary device have a shared axis of symmetry,

   - the hazard alarm (M) is designed in a rotationally symmetrical manner, and

   - the auxiliary device extends in the lateral radial direction away from the axis of symmetry in a range of 1 cm to 5 cm beyond the outer dimensions of the hazard alarm (M).
2. Device according to claim 1, wherein the transmitting units (S) are optical, acoustic or radio-based transmitting units, in particular based on ultrasound, infrared light or microwaves, and wherein the receiving units (E) are optical, acoustic or radio-based receiving units, in particular based on ultrasound, infrared light or microwaves.
3. Device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the device has an optical scanning device (SEV, SV, EV) for one or more inlet opening(s) (OF) of a received or bordered hazard alarm (M) and an evaluation unit (SER) connected thereto, and wherein the evaluation unit (SER) emits a second alarm signal (M2) in the event of detected inadmissible contamination (V).
4. Device according to claim 3, wherein the optical scanning device (SEV) has a light transmitter (SV) for emitting a highly bundled light beam, wherein the light transmitter (SV) is oriented in such a way that its light beam passes the at least one inlet opening (OF) at a slight distance, wherein the optical scanning device (SEV) has a light receiver (EV) for receiving scattered light from contamination (V) from the region of the at least one inlet opening (OF), and wherein the evaluation unit (SER) connected to the light transmitter (SV) and light receiver (EV) is adapted to output a second alarm signal (M2) if a received signal originating from the light receiver (EV) exceeds a predefined minimum level.
5. Device according to claim 3, wherein the optical scanning device (SEV) has a plurality of light transmitters (SV) each for transmitting a highly bundled light beam, wherein the respective light transmitter (SV) is oriented in such a way that its light beam passes at least one inlet opening (OF) at a slight distance, wherein the optical scanning device (SEV) has a plurality of light receivers (EV) for receiving scattered light from contamination (V) from the region of the at least one inlet opening (OF), and wherein the evaluation unit (SER) connected to the plurality of light transmitters (SV) and light receivers (EV) is adapted to evaluate the received signals originating from respective light receivers (EV) and to output a second alarm signal (M2) if the result of the evaluation exceeds a predefined reference value.
6. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the device has a contact-based and/or wireless communications interface (KS1, KS2) for data communication between a control unit (SEM) of the received hazard alarm (M) and an evaluation unit (SER) of the auxiliary device (R1-R3).
7. Device according to claim 6, wherein the device has a plurality of distributed light transmitters (SV) for emitting one light bundle respectively which is directed toward the at least one inlet opening (OF) of a received or bordered hazard alarm (M), wherein the evaluation unit (SER) is connected thereto in order to control the light transmitter (SV) and is adapted to output a second alarm signal (M2) if a light receiving signal transmitted from the hazard alarm (M) via the communications interface (K1, K2), and which originates from a light receiver (SV) inside the hazard alarm (M), falls below a predefined value.
8. Device according to claim 6 or 7,

   - wherein the device has an acoustic alarm signalling device and/or an alarm flash,

   - wherein the evaluation unit (SER) is adapted to receive via the communications interface (K1, K2) an alarm signal output in the event of an alarm by the received or bordered hazard alarm (M) in order to then control the acoustic alarm signalling device and/or alarm flash,

   - wherein the device has means for the acoustic or electrical checking of the acoustic alarm signalling device and/or means for visual checking of the alarm flash,

   - wherein the device is adapted to repeatedly monitor the functionality of the acoustic alarm signalling device and/or the alarm flash and

   - wherein the evaluation unit (SER) is adapted to output a third alarm signal (M3) if the acoustic alarm signalling device and/or the alarm flash fail(s) the functional test.
9. Device according to one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the device has a radio module (FM), a motion sensor, a smoke gas sensor, a temperature sensor, a loudspeaker, an acoustic alarm signalling device, an alarm flash, an emergency light and/or a battery (BAT).
10. Device according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the device has a central receptacle, in particular a base (SO), to receive the hazard alarm (M).
11. Device according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the device is designed for lateral bordering of the hazard alarm (M) .
12. Arrangement comprising a hazard alarm (M) constructed as a point type detector and comprising an auxiliary device (R1-R3) that is matched thereto in terms of construction and/or connections and is attached to the hazard alarm (M) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 9, according to claim 10 or according to claim 11.
13. Use of an auxiliary device (R1-R1) according to one of claims 1 to 9, according to claim 10 or according to claim 11 for monitoring the vicinity of the hazard alarm (M) for current-shielding objects (OB), for monitoring at least one inlet opening (OF) of the hazard alarm (M) for contamination (V) and optionally for monitoring the function of an acoustic alarm signalling device and/or alarm flash of the hazard alarm (M), wherein the hazard alarm (M) is in particular a smoke alarm.

Images