EP4006862A1 - Method and system for controlling sirens, for communication, and population information - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a method and a system for controlling sirens, for informing the population, the economy, institutions and emergency services. Information is transmitted bidirectionally and without delay between the triggering points and the sirens via digital infrastructures. Due to the use of different Internet technologies and protocols, the method and system according to the invention is not limited to a specific data format during transmission. The method or system also includes disaster management functions that ensure communication between the initiating and responsible disaster control agencies. The bodies connected via the system communicate with each other via chat, voice, video and data exchange. Accessible applications also enable people with disabilities to receive warnings and information.

Description

The invention relates to a method for controlling sirens, for communication and for informing the population. In a first method step, an entity generates a data set with control commands based on a triggering event, the control commands being assigned to a siren and/or a siren group. The control commands and the siren and/or siren group are preferably selected based on the triggering event. The data record is then transmitted to a server device. In a further step, the server device stores the data set in a database. The siren and/or siren group preferably receives a push notification and/or then retrieves the control commands assigned to it from the server and, in a final method step, generates an output signal including the control commands. Furthermore, before and during a disaster, information is given to the population and communication is made possible.

In addition, the invention relates to a system and a computer program product for controlling sirens, for communication and for informing the population

Background and prior art

For many decades, sirens have been used to alert and inform the public about various events. Extensive systems for warning the population were set up during the Cold War. The two most important components of the warning system were, on the one hand, sirens for alerting and, on the other hand, radio for warning messages and information on the danger situation. As a result of the political détente, most of the cost-intensive alarm systems were shut down after 1992.

What has remained is the radio warning to the population and, in some areas, local alarms via sirens, which are also used to alert (voluntary) fire brigades. However, in time-critical situations, such as storms, radio warnings can only reach a limited section of the population in the short term without prior alerting, as the radio is only listened to for around 180 minutes a day on average. With the current system, it is not possible to alert the population quickly and across the board in the event of catastrophes and major damage events.

The control center landscape (especially in Germany) is also characterized by the fact that there are technical restrictions in the cooperation of different control centers with one another, in particular due to proprietary technologies. This continues with the control of resources. This creates media breaks that have far-reaching adverse effects in this environment.

The so-called "nationwide warning day" carried out in Germany with the triggering of sirens on September 10, 2020 made it clear that the disaster management currently practiced does not meet the organizational and technical requirements of civil protection. The sirens could not be triggered on time and at the same time. So far there is no uniform central procedure for the operation and testing of sirens.

Disaster situations are not tied to administrative borders, but there is still a lack of an infrastructure geared beyond this for the exchange of information between the disaster management agencies.

When a siren is triggered in the event of a disaster, it is just as important that other information is provided to the public in addition to the alert. This is currently only possible via digital media and radio, although this is not done in a targeted manner and can also fail depending on the disaster.

The sirens are currently triggered by the control centers using the POCSAG standard. This paging transmission standard was developed in the late 1970s and has established itself as the transmission procedure in professional mobile communications in Europe. The disadvantage here, however, is the long alarm runtimes when there are a large number of sirens to be triggered at the same time. This is due to the push method used and the limited transmission capacity. Another problem that exists throughout Europe with the use of POCSAG is that there is no return channel for trip confirmation and function monitoring.

DIRECTIVE (EU) 2018/1972 OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL of December 11, 2018 on the European Electronic Communications Code requires member states to provide equivalence in terms of access and choice for end-users with disabilities (Articles 110,111). The sirens currently in use do not meet this requirement because they cannot be heard by people with hearing impairments, for example.

object of the invention

The object of the invention was therefore to eliminate the disadvantages of the prior art and to ensure simultaneous triggering of a large number of selected sirens with defined signal sequences within seconds and to record operational readiness through continuous status reports and to provide information to the public as required.

Summary of the Invention

The object according to the invention is solved by the features of the independent claims. Advantageous configurations of the invention are described in the dependent claims.

1. a) eine Entität aufgrund eines Auslösungsereignisses einen Datensatz mit Steuerungsbefehlen erzeugt und an eine Servereinrichtung übermittelt, wobei die Steuerungsbefehle einer Sirene und/oder einer Sirenengruppe zugeordnet sind und die Steuerungsbefehle sowie die Sirene und/oder Sirenengruppe anhand des Auslösungsereignisses ausgewählt werden;
2. b) die Servereinrichtung den Datensatz in einer Datenbank speichert;
3. c) die Sirene und/oder Sirenengruppe die ihr zugeordneten Steuerungsbefehle von der Servereinrichtung abruft oder von dieser übermittelt werden;
4. d) die Sirene und/oder Sirenengruppe ein Ausgabesignal unter Einbezug der Steuerungsbefehle erzeugt.

In a preferred embodiment, the invention relates to a method for controlling sirens, for communication and for informing the population, characterized in that

1. a) an entity generates a data set with control commands based on a triggering event and transmits it to a server device, the control commands being assigned to a siren and/or a siren group and the control commands and the siren and/or siren group are selected based on the triggering event;
2. b) the server device stores the data set in a database;
3. c) the siren and/or siren group retrieves the control commands assigned to it from the server device or transmits them from the server device;
4. d) the siren and/or siren group generates an output signal including the control commands.

The combination of the present method steps leads to a surprising synergy effect, which leads to the advantageous properties and the associated overall success of the invention, with the individual features interacting with one another. An important advantage of the method according to the invention can be seen in particular in the fact that thousands of receivers, preferably sirens, can be triggered with defined signal sequences within a few seconds in a geographic area, in particular allowing bidirectional communication between a siren or siren group and an entity becomes.

The method also advantageously enables the operational readiness of an entire system to be monitored by means of continuous queries which are sent to the server device by the sirens. Each time a siren is queried, additional information is transmitted to the server device, e.g. the siren status and the functional readiness of the sirens. In contrast, in the response to the query, the server device sends information and control commands that respond thereto to the siren. The method, in particular the server device, preferably ensures the retrieval of control commands and information and at the same time the monitoring of the operational readiness of the objects (preferably sirens). Alternatively, the server device continuously determines the information available for a siren area and immediately transmits this to the siren and/or siren group.

Because the server device preferably stores the data record in a database, a history for the triggering of various sirens is advantageously generated. It goes without saying that this stored history or historical data can be accessed at any time - even retrospectively - and this data can therefore also be checked. In this way, alarm signals can also be analyzed afterwards.

In terms of the invention, an entity is preferably a clearly identifiable variable, for example an object. The object can be material or immaterial, concrete or abstract. Other examples of an entity are: a computer, a smartphone, a vehicle, an account, a condition. In a particularly preferred variant, the entity has an interface that is set up to enable a person to make manual entries, so that a triggering event or parameters associated with it are preferably supplied to the entity as input. The entity can preferably further process and transmit these inputs accordingly.

The method is preferably initiated by a triggering event. A triggering event is preferably to be understood as an event which manifests itself as a discrepancy between a actual event and an actually expected event, so that a warning of the population, parts of the population or emergency services is required. However, a trigger event can also represent a planned event or a manually triggered event. For example, various planned tests of an alarm system can also form a triggering event. A triggering event is preferably also to be understood as a so-called “trigger”. A triggering event is also preferably time- and location-dependent, so that, for example, the triggering event is relevant over a specific time range only in a geographic area. A triggering event is preferably selected from the group comprising, testing an alarm system in a geographic area, war, smog, plane crash, or natural disasters such as earthquake, volcanic eruption, flood, avalanche, storm, tsunami. The invention is not limited to these triggering events.

The triggering event can be automatically recognized by the entity or manually provided to the entity as input by a person. For example, a person can recognize the triggering event and give the entity an instruction that results in the creation of the record.

Depending on the triggering event, a siren or a group of sirens is selected, which should preferably be used to alert the population or should be subject to a function test. After a suitable selection (manually or automatically) has been made, a corresponding data record with control commands specific to the sirens is preferably generated and transmitted to the server device. Each siren is preferably set up in such a way that it cyclically (repeatedly) sends a query to the server device, with the siren asking the server device specifically for new control commands assigned to it. If no control commands are included in the server device, the siren preferably does not emit an output signal. If, however, there are control commands for the siren on the server device, these are preferably transmitted to the siren after the query has been made and the siren executes the control commands by preferably generating an output signal.

Control commands are preferably a command sequence that controls the siren in such a way that an output signal is generated, it being possible for a characteristic output signal or a signal sequence to be generated. The output signal is advantageous for the population to understand directly as an alarm signal. The control commands are also preferably dependent on the triggering event. It can be preferred that a user manually sends the control commands to the entity as input or the entity generates control commands after the user has introduced a manual input for a triggering event or the entity recognizes the triggering event without external influences and generates based on it control commands. Artificial intelligence algorithms can preferably be used for the automated detection of a triggering event by the entity.

Furthermore, the entity is preferably configured to generate a data set. The data set is preferably stored as summarized data in databases or in files. The data record is preferably stored in a file format selected from the group consisting of JSON, XML, and CSV. One of the great things about JSON files is their simplicity of implementation and application. Due to the simple structure, JSON files do not require many resources when used. In this way, extensive data can be evaluated in an acceptable time. The XML format can advantageously be connected to other systems without great effort, so that there is particularly good compatibility. XML is just as advantageous for long-term file storage and XML can also be easily converted into other file formats. The CSV file format is advantageously versatile. The great advantage of the CSV format is that it is easy to transfer, such as importing it into different databases or programs. In existing databases, content from CSV files can be imported many times. It is particularly advantageous when different data sources (e.g. data from different entities) are to be combined into a single database.

The file formats to be used are not irrelevant for the proposed method, because they have an influence on the calculation speed, the memory and the transmission speed. The interaction of the file formats with the entity, the server device and/or the siren or siren group contribute, among other things, to the technical character of the invention. It has also been shown that in particular the control commands for the sirens or siren groups can be stored particularly well in the aforementioned file formats without having to accept any relevant loss of information.

In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the server device is a decentralized server or a number of decentralized servers connected to one another. These are preferably remote from the siren or the siren group and/or the entity. With regard to the present invention, remote means that the server is preferably positioned at a location that is not in the same building as the siren and/or entity. A decentralized server can also be understood as an external server. The advantage of such an arrangement can be seen, among other things, in the fact that the system is designed decentrally, so that if individual components such as the entity and/or server device and/or siren or siren group fail, the individual components can be replaced or repaired individually. replaced or repaired without having to replace the entire system.

The server device preferably includes an authentication function, an application server, a database and/or a VoIP PBX. The individual servers are preferably designed to be multiple (one server each for a geographic subarea and/or for load balancing) and redundant (backup servers take over the function in the event of a failure) and ensure interaction between the server device and the sirens or siren groups. The redundancy of the servers advantageously leads to a particularly stable system that can be implemented reliably, because if individual components fail, the proposed method or system can continue to be implemented with the respective non-failed server.

The functions and/or components covered by the server device can be implemented by a server, multiple servers, a server cluster and/or multiple server clusters and can be designed individually, redundantly or multi-redundantly, with the individual Functions can be realized by one or more servers and/or by one or more applications. The individual functions can also be implemented for load distribution or for the logical separation of several instances.

In the method and/or system according to the invention, access by the entities and the sirens or siren groups is preferably verified by the authentication function. Authentication is a useful means of determining whether an entity or siren or person (preferably via access to an entity) is in fact who it claims to be. If a subscriber accesses an authentication function, only the user name and password may be required as identification data. In a further preferred embodiment, the subscriber must preferably request and receive a security token, which he can use to access a specific service.

• die Servereinrichtung mit einer Entität, bevorzugt eine weitere Entität, in Datenverbindung steht, wobei diese einer Betriebsüberwachung zugeordnet ist;
• bei einer Auslösung einer Sirene und/oder Sirenengruppe eine Auslösebestätigung über die Servereinrichtung an die Entität, bevorzugt an die weitere Entität, übertragen wird.

In a further preferred embodiment, the method is characterized in that

• the server device is in a data connection with an entity, preferably a further entity, which is assigned to operational monitoring;
• when a siren and/or siren group is triggered, a confirmation of triggering is transmitted via the server device to the entity, preferably to the further entity.

Furthermore, the history of the siren triggering and the triggering event and the siren status are preferably stored in the database. Malfunctions and failures are preferably registered in an operational monitor that is in data communication with the server device, with the operational monitor comprising an entity that is connected to the server device. In a further preferred embodiment, the method is accordingly characterized in that the server device has a data connection with an entity which is assigned to operational monitoring. The operational monitoring is a device/point that preferably continuously monitors the entire proposed method and is in communication with the control centers and/or the central administration point and/or the server device. The operational monitoring accordingly has an entity which is preferably able to analyze - for example using algorithms of artificial intelligence - to recognize patterns in data that allow a conclusion to be drawn about an event that requires a specific reaction, the operational monitoring forwards information about a necessary reaction to the appropriate responsible bodies. In a further preferred embodiment, the operational monitoring has means for visualizing the monitored data for a person who then analyzes this data and manually contacts the responsible departments. Provision can also be made for the operational monitoring to have a storage unit in which all recorded data from the server device is stored. In an alternative, the server device has an integrated operational monitoring component that can also register faults and failures, preferably automatically. Operational monitoring enables a Data processing unit in which a remote desktop tool and/or ssh/telnet access is installed, e.g. access for updates or configuration changes.

In terms of the invention, a siren is preferably a device for acoustic alarms or warnings, usually by means of a characteristic howling tone that rises and falls. According to the invention, the acoustic alarm is preferably to be understood as the output signal of the siren. In the public sector, sirens are preferably used to alert the fire brigade or to warn the civilian population in the event of a disaster. Based on the design and sound generation, a distinction is made between mechanical (or motor), pneumatic and electronic sirens. The last two types, but usually only the pneumatic sirens, are preferably referred to as high-performance sirens (HLS).

A mechanical siren (also motor siren) preferably consists of a paddle-wheel-like drum (the so-called rotor) and an interrupted housing enclosing it (the so-called stator). By rotating the drum, e.g. B. by an electric motor, the resulting air flow is constantly cut off and generates a sound. The pitch depends on the speed and the number of blades, the so-called ports of the drum. The pitch of a siren in hertz is calculated as revolutions per second multiplied by the number of ports. The stator has the same number of openings to ensure that the air flow is stopped at all ports simultaneously. The starting and stopping of the motor results in a higher and lower tone. Mechanical sirens are considered to be particularly reliable and also enable economical and simple replacement of individual components or the entire siren as such.

Pneumatic sirens generate their sound similar to a mechanical siren, preferably by cyclically interrupting the air flow, which also occurs through an electric motor-driven rotor in the siren head. In contrast to the mechanical siren, in which an air flow is preferably created by centrifugal force, compressed air at around 16 bar is preferably fed from a storage container under a siren mast to a siren head. After the rotor, which preferably consists of a perforated disk that periodically opens or closes the outlet openings, the air is preferably directed into several horns. The advantage of this solution is the immediately available supply of compressed air, which is continuously replenished by a compressor, and the much greater performance of this type of siren. For a model with a head height of 20 meters, the sound pressure on the ground 20 meters from the siren is about 130 dB, and the sound can still be heard at a distance of 12 km.

Electronic sirens, on the other hand, preferably generate the sound with a loudspeaker and an electronic amplifier. With a control you can also feel the rise and fall of the mechanical siren. The advantage of electronic sirens is that they have no moving parts. This reduces weight, maintenance effort and power consumption. This type of siren is also partly independent of the mains power supply by means of a battery that can be charged by solar cells or the mains power supply. The individual horns can be turned in the desired direction to provide more or less sound in certain areas. Voice announcements can also be implemented with electronic sirens. In the case of electronic sirens, voice announcements can preferably be made using pre-stored audio data or transmitted Audio data or text-to-speech conversion, also multilingual, can be generated. Loudspeakers can also be integrated as electronic sirens in communities, companies, schools, train stations and factory sirens - preferably via a switch for loudspeaker systems.

In addition, the siren systems can be equipped with an optical signal transmitter, in particular one or more lights and/or displays, which emits a color-pulsing signal over the entire duration of the event. This then indicates that associated information can be accessed via another information source (internet app, radio,...). Visual signaling devices can also be used to warn/alert people with hearing impairments.

It goes without saying that a large number of sirens represent a siren group, with the sirens included in the siren group preferably being locally separated from one another. In a preferred embodiment, a large number of sirens that are located in a defined geographic area are to be understood as a siren group. This geographical area or the siren group is also preferably assigned to a control center, a municipality or a triggering area (central administration structure).

In a preferred embodiment, the data set is stored in a database of a server device. It goes without saying that a database, also known as a database system, is preferably a system for electronic data management. The main task of a database is to store large amounts of data efficiently, consistently and permanently and to provide the necessary subsets in different, needs-based forms of representation for users and application programs.

• bei Ausfall der standardgemäß genutzten Übertragungskanäle, die Übertragung der Steuerungsbefehle und/oder Audiosignale über ein autarkes Funksystem erfolgt;
• das autarke Funksystem zwischen der Sirene und der Entität und/oder der Servereinrichtung betrieben wird, durch eine oder mehrere USV bzw. Stromspeicher abgesichert ist und eine kontinuierliche Überwachung der standardgemäß genutzten Übertragungskanäle erfolgt, wobei bei deren Ausfall automatisch auf das autarke Funksystem umgeschaltet wird;
• die Funkverbindung, in Form der Funksysteme, wie LoRaWAN, PMR, CB-Funk oder andere integriert wird.

In a further preferred embodiment, the method is characterized in that

• if the transmission channels used by default fail, the control commands and/or audio signals are transmitted via a self-sufficient radio system;
• the self-sufficient radio system between the siren and the entity and/or the server device is operated, is secured by one or more UPS or power storage devices and the transmission channels used by default are continuously monitored, with automatic switching to the self-sufficient radio system in the event of their failure;
• the radio connection is integrated in the form of radio systems such as LoRaWAN, PMR, CB radio or others.

• die Sirene und/oder die Sirenengruppe zyklisch eine Abfrage an die Servereinrichtung übermittelt, wobei mit der Abfrage die Sirene und/oder Sirenengruppe der Servereinrichtung sirenen- und/oder umgebungsbezogene Informationen, bevorzugt Informationen über den Sirenenstatus und/oder der Funktionsbereitschaft, übermittelt;
• die Servereinrichtung in einer Antwort auf die Abfrage den Datensatz mit Steuerungsbefehlen an die Sirene und/oder Sirenengruppe übermittelt;
• die sirenen- und/oder umgebungsbezogenen Informationen der Entität bereitgestellt werden
• einer Sirene und/oder Sirenengruppe eine Identifikationsnummer oder ein geographischer Bereich zugeordnet ist.

In a further preferred embodiment, the method is characterized in that

• the siren and / or the siren group cyclically transmits a query to the server device, with the query the siren and / or siren group of Server device siren and / or environment-related information, preferably information about the siren status and / or operational readiness transmitted;
• the server device transmits the data set with control commands to the siren and/or siren group in a response to the query;
• the siren and/or environment related information is provided to the entity
• an identification number or geographical area is assigned to a siren and/or siren group.

The embodiment described above advantageously means that it can be recognized in good time in a simple manner whether a siren and/or siren group is functional and also leads to bidirectional communication between the entity and siren and/or siren group. The siren and/or group of sirens thus receives control commands, whereas the siren transmits siren-related and/or environment-related information to the server device, which transmits the information to the entity.

Siren-related information is preferably information about the siren status and/or the operational readiness. On the other hand, environment-related information is preferably information that relates to the environment of the siren. This can preferably be the immediate area or an area in an area radius of up to several kilometers, preferably an area radius has a size of up to 100 km, more preferably up to 25 km, particularly preferably up to 10 km, in particular up to 1 km. The environment-related information as well as the siren-related information is preferably recorded via sensors and either analyzed or pre-processed via a data processing unit included in the siren and then transmitted to the server device or transmitted directly to the server device as raw data without pre-processing, with the raw data then being processed by the Server setup can be analyzed and edited. It can also be preferable for the recorded sensor data to be processed and/or analyzed first by the entity as siren-related and environment-related information.

The sensors are preferably integrated in the siren and/or siren group. The advantage of such a siren with sensors can be seen in the fact that chemical and/or physical properties of the environment and/or the siren can be recorded as such and made available to the entity through the bidirectional communication option. This is preferably done automatically and - "live" - without a time delay, so that an entity can react immediately to the data received and can generate modified control commands. A particular advantage is brought about by a siren group, because a large number of sirens having sensors correspond to a large number of data sources, which can each transmit siren-related and environment-related information to an entity via the server device. A comprehensive overall picture of a situation or a state of a triggering event can be obtained through the analysis of all recorded environment-related information. The overall picture is spatially resolved, with each siren being defined at its location as a data point in a geographical area.

In a further preferred embodiment, the siren and/or the siren group cyclically generates a query to the server device. The cyclic query is time-dependent and is to be understood in such a way that a query is repeatedly sent to the server device at specific time intervals. The time intervals are preferably defined as a time range of less than 5 minutes, more preferably less than 1 minute, particularly preferably less than 30 seconds, most preferably less than 10 seconds and in particular less than 3 seconds. The selected time ranges of the query have proven to be particularly resource-efficient ( e.g. in relation to the data consumption of the selected transmission method), whereby the time intervals are considered to be a sufficiently short time to enable the most immediate possible (without a relevant disadvantageous time delay) bi-directional communication between siren and entity.

The cyclic query is preferably automated by the sirens. However, it can also be done manually by a person using an input interface included in the siren and/or by an event or state detected by the integrated sensors. An automated query carried out by the siren (as well as automated processing of the queried control data) advantageously means that a siren can also issue an alarm signal, although it is very difficult for people to reach it - because, for example, a natural disaster damaged the building in which the siren installed, destroyed by debris, or impassable by flooding.

The siren and/or environment-related information is transmitted to the server device simultaneously with the query. This can be presented, for example, in the way that a data set is provided with information about the sirens and/or their environment and this data set also includes a query to the server device, which enables the transmission of control commands from the server device to the siren and/or siren group is initiated.

Furthermore, the server device preferably transmits the data record with control commands to the siren or the siren group in a response to the query. The main result of this is that the siren or siren group receives control commands and can process them further.

In a preferred embodiment, a data set is generated for the query and the response. The query generated by the siren can thus be defined as a query data record and the response generated by the server device as a response data record. In addition to a query, the query data record preferably includes siren-related and/or environment-related information. The response data record, on the other hand, preferably includes the control commands, which are included in a data record generated by the entity, which is stored in a database in the server device.

In another preferred embodiment, siren and/or environment related information is provided to the entity. In this case, the siren and/or environment-related information is preferably sent to the entity via a further data record (this can be created by a server device or a siren). The server device can preferably assign the created data set to a corresponding entity. In other variants When creating a record, the siren can assign the record to a relevant entity and attach corresponding assignment data to the record.

If the siren and/or environment-related information is provided to the entity, this is preferably to be understood as a retrospective signal from the siren or siren group, which can be further processed and/or analyzed by the entity. Such an analysis can advantageously recognize that a siren or siren group is subject to a defect. Furthermore, the environment-related information in particular can be used to transmit "first-hand" information directly and directly to the entity, so that the entity can include this for the selection of appropriate control commands without having to rely on third-party services (e.g. weather services). Ultimately, this is advantageously a live monitoring of the siren or siren group and their surroundings, with the decentralized positioning of individual sirens generating a comprehensive picture of the situation.

In a further preferred embodiment, the siren and/or siren group receives a trigger signal (push), which results in an immediate query to the server device and/or an immediate triggering of an alarm/warning.

In a further preferred embodiment, the entity sends a control command or a control signal and/or an alarm/warning via cell broadcast. The transmission to the sirens and loudspeakers as well as the mobile phone/smartphone takes place on one channel or separate channels.

In a further preferred embodiment, hearing-impaired people are made aware of the warnings and information via a mobile phone/smartphone. This is preferably done using an app that generates light signals and/or vibration. These signals can be implemented by lighting up the display, built-in lamps/flashing lights, by vibration of built-in mechanisms or by externally connected signaling systems for light and vibration.

• ein Mobiltelefon/Smartphone die von einer Entität erstellten Warnungen und/oder Informationen zu einem Katastrophenfall erhalten und/oder mittels Mikrofon den Signalton identifizieren und/oder die Informationen erkennen,
• hörgeschädigte Menschen über ein Mobiltelefon/Smartphone auf die Warnungen und Informationen aufmerksam gemacht werden, wobei vorzugsweise eine App Lichtsignale und/oder Vibration erzeugt und/oder die Warnung und/oder Information auf dem Display anzeigt,
• die Lichtsignale durch Aufleuchten des Displays und/oder eingebauter Lampen/Blitzlichter des Mobiltelefons/Smartphones und/oder durch Vibration eingebauter Mechanismen des Mobiltelefons/Smartphones und/oder durch extern angeschlossene Signalanlagen für Licht und/oder Vibration realisiert werden.

In a further preferred embodiment, the method is characterized in that

• a mobile phone/smartphone receive the alerts and/or information about a disaster event generated by an entity and/or identify the beep and/or recognize the information using a microphone,
• people with hearing impairments are made aware of the warnings and information via a mobile phone/smartphone, with an app preferably generating light signals and/or vibration and/or showing the warning and/or information on the display,
• the light signals are realized by lighting up the display and/or built-in lamps/flashing lights of the mobile phone/smartphone and/or by vibrating built-in mechanisms of the mobile phone/smartphone and/or by externally connected signaling systems for light and/or vibration.

In a further preferred embodiment, if the transmission channels used as standard, which are wireless and/or wired, fail, the transmission of the Control commands and/or audio signals via a self-sufficient transmission system, preferably a radio system.

In a further preferred embodiment, the autonomous transmission system is preferably battery operated between the siren and/or siren group and the entity or entities and/or server device. By continuously monitoring the transmission channels used as standard, it is possible to automatically switch to the autonomous transmission system if they fail.

In a further preferred embodiment, the radio connection is integrated in the form of radio systems such as LoRaWAN, PMR, CB radio or others.

In a further preferred embodiment, an entity is battery/rechargeable battery operated and/or connected to a UPS or emergency power system.

In a further preferred embodiment, the audio signals are generated with a microphone on the entity and/or directly on site on the siren and/or siren group.

In a further preferred embodiment, the audio signals are generated by the transmission of a text to the siren and/or siren group and subsequent conversion into speech (text-to-speech) by the data processing unit.

• die Erzeugung der Audiosignale bzw. akustischen Ausgabe mit einem Mikrofon an der Entität und/oder direkt vor Ort an der Sirene erfolgt,
  und/oder
• zur Erzeugung der Audiosignale bzw. akustischen Ausgabe auf der Entität und/oder der Servereinrichtung ein Text eingegeben und/oder ausgewählt und/oder generiert wird, der an die Sirene und/oder Sirenengruppe übermittelt und/oder von dieser abgerufen wird und von der Datenverarbeitungseinheit in Sprache gewandelt wird (Text-to-Speech).

In a further preferred embodiment, the method is characterized in that

• the audio signals or acoustic output is generated with a microphone on the entity and/or directly on site at the siren,
  and or
• to generate the audio signals or acoustic output on the entity and/or the server device, a text is entered and/or selected and/or generated, which is transmitted to the siren and/or siren group and/or retrieved by it and processed by the data processing unit in language is converted (text-to-speech).

1. (i) bidirektional zwischen der Servereinrichtung und Sirene und/oder Sirenengruppe und/oder
2. (ii) bidirektional zwischen der Entität und der Servereinrichtung

über ein Übertragungsverfahren oder in Kombination oder über mehrere Übertragungsverfahren redundant erfolgt, nämlich Mobilfunk (36), Digitalfunk (37), alternative Übertragungsverfahren wie LoRaWAN (37a), kabelgebundenes Internet (auch Router-WLAN) (38), Landesnetze der Verwaltungen (38a) oder Satelliteninternet (39), wobei die Übertragung vorzugsweise verschlüsselt wird.In a further preferred embodiment, the transmission of data, in particular the data record and/or the siren and/or environment-related information,

1. (i) bi-directionally between the server device and siren and/or siren group and/or
2. (ii) bidirectional between the entity and the server facility

takes place redundantly via a transmission method or in combination or via several transmission methods, namely mobile radio (36), digital radio (37), alternative transmission methods such as LoRaWAN (37a), wired Internet (also router WLAN) (38), state networks of the administrations (38a) or satellite internet (39), the transmission preferably being encrypted.

The aforementioned methods enable direct and secure transmission without any significant loss of data, using known infrastructure. The main advantage of digital radio can be seen in the possibility of carrying out group communication. The extent to which group addressing is possible and network overload is excluded (e.g. TETRA network) must be taken into account. Mobile radio technology, on the other hand, advantageously has a very good transmission rate of signals and enables the use of mobile communication participants (siren or entity) and can trigger group information by means of broadcast. In contrast, wired Internet has extremely stable and good transmission speeds, with external sources of interference not affecting the connection. The risk of data loss during wired transmission can therefore be regarded as extremely low. Satellite Internet is independent of DSL expansion and/or mobile (LTE/5G) availability, so that it is advantageous to communicate with sirens or entities in very remote locations. In addition, satellite internet and mobile communications can be used so that mobile sirens (e.g. on vehicles) can also be reached. A special application of satellite internet is the transmission of warning messages as individual or group information, as is made possible in Germany, for example, by the modular warning system (MoWaS) via satellites such as GLONASS and, in the future, GALILEO. The state network of the administrations is a wired transmission network set up (for administrations) that is independent of external providers and therefore advantageously does not allow access from outside. In particular, this enables extremely secure data transmission - without the risk of data manipulation by third parties.

A transmission of data via a transmission method, which takes place bidirectionally, is to be understood within the meaning of the invention in such a way that data can be sent or received by both participants in the communication connection. This means that a data set and/or information can be transmitted from the server device to the siren and/or siren group and vice versa. The transmission can also take place from an entity to the server device and vice versa.

The term "and vice versa" refers to the bidirectional communication between the above components, i.e. that the data set and/or the siren and/or environment-related information is sent from the siren and/or siren group to the server device and/or from the server device to the Entity is transmitted via a transmission method, namely mobile radio, digital radio, wired Internet, national government networks, alternative transmission methods (such as LoRaWAN) or satellite Internet.

In a further preferred embodiment, the method is characterized in that several transmission methods are used redundantly and/or the transmission is encrypted. The redundancy of the transmission method has a positive effect on the security and stability of the method according to the invention; in particular, it has been shown that the combination of different types of transmission method leads to outstanding stability of the transmission. Thus, in the event of a failure or poor connectivity of a first transmission method, which is carried out redundantly or in combination with the method

Transmission methods take over the essential transmission. In addition, the transmission is encrypted, with different signatures being able to be used or also all encryption methods known to those skilled in the art.

In a further preferred embodiment, the method is characterized in that the entity is assigned to a control center and/or a central administration structure and/or a facility of the critical infrastructure. This advantageously makes it possible for the control center and the central administration structure as well as the establishment of the critical infrastructure to participate in the method according to the invention and to participate in the system according to the invention. These institutions have existed for a long time, so that no new organizational structures have to be generated, but existing structures in particular are included in the process.

According to the invention, a control center (operational control center or PSAP (Public Safety Answering Point)) is preferably set up to manage the operation of an assigned organization. It preferentially receives information, evaluates it and coordinates the connected services. In the context of public services in particular, there are control centers that take emergency calls for firefighting, for the preservation or rescue of important property, for civil protection, in medical and technical rescue services, for saving human lives, in matters of public safety and order, and rescue services, fire brigades, technical matters Use aid agency, police and other emergency services. They can usually be reached around the clock and have a data connection with each other. A contact person can be reached anywhere in Europe under the emergency number 112, who can arrange help from the areas mentioned.

An area of responsibility is preferably assigned to each control center. This is usually of a geographical nature and can be represented, for example, by a district, a city, a federal state, a state, a region that spans national borders or a continent. The area of responsibility can be represented as one or more polygons in a projection onto a two-dimensional surface, such as a map. A comparison between the location data of a siren or siren group and polygons preferably leads to a control center being responsible. Control centers are therefore to be seen as a decentralized organizational structure, which brings with it a multitude of advantages. A responsible control center is preferably positioned relatively close (related to a distance) to an occurring triggering event, so that regional parameters can also be included in the triggering of an alarm and the generation of control commands. In addition, if a first control center fails, another control center can take over the tasks of the first control center, which is still not very far from the triggering event. The integration of control centers in the proposed procedure also leads to more flexibility and less administrative effort, because the entire control center organization has a smaller number of employees, so it is possible to react quickly to deadline bottlenecks and emergencies, for example.

A central administration structure is preferably a facility or organizational structure which is designed as a (centrally organised) staff position which is provided with all decision-making powers in connection with a triggering event. the In this case, the central management structure can be re-established for a limited time only for the triggering event, depending on a triggering event. A central administration structure is preferably to be understood as a central organizational structure.

The Federal Office for Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance (BBK) is to be understood as a central administrative structure in Germany. The Federal Office for Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance is a higher federal authority within the portfolio of the Federal Ministry of the Interior, Building and Community and is the central organizational element for civil security. Furthermore, the central administrative structure can preferably be designed as a crisis management team for the federal government, the federal states, urban and/or rural districts. The main advantage of a central administrative structure is the uniform decision-making power centered in one place. Starting from this organization (or within this organization), all essential organizational decisions relating to a triggering event can be made centrally. A central administrative structure advantageously has bundled specialist knowledge and bundled material resources in one place.

A critical infrastructure facility is preferably an organization or facility of major importance to the state community, the failure or impairment of which would result in lasting supply bottlenecks, significant disruptions to public safety or other dramatic consequences. Almost every area of daily life is supported by modern technology. All of these technical systems and facilities, in turn, require certain basic services to function properly. Motor vehicles and heating systems, for example, need fuel, buildings need a reliable supply of energy and water, and without transport, goods and services cannot be manufactured or sold. These basic services, which are so important for our society, are referred to as critical infrastructures (KRITIS). In Germany, organizations and institutions, for example in the fields of energy supply, information technology and telecommunications, transport and traffic, health, water, nutrition, finance and insurance, state and administration as well as media and culture are preferably counted among the critical infrastructures. The operators of these critical infrastructures, regardless of whether they are organized privately or under public law, provide the critical services that are absolutely necessary for the supply of the population in high quality and stability.

It goes without saying that both the control center and the central administration structure can simultaneously participate in the proposed procedure via one or more entities.

In a further preferred embodiment, the method is characterized in that one or more entities have a data connection to one another and communicate with one another. The respective entities can also be assigned to different organizational structures, ie to a control center or a central administration office. With a cooperative working method, for example between the control centers and the civil protection offices, the procedure can be used as a common platform with reporting channels for the automated exchange of information between different systems and administrative levels. In this case, other facilities, for example a critical infrastructure (KRITIS), can preferably also be identified using their individual ID or by means of geographic object selection are addressed. Tasks can be shared and resources can be optimally used in consultation between the control center and central administration before or during the triggering of an alarm. Furthermore, the siren and/or environment-related information transmitted retrospectively by the sirens can also be analyzed cooperatively and reacted to based thereon. Since the control centers can react more quickly due to their decentralized arrangement, they can be made responsible for repairing or replacing this siren at a specific location, for example, by the central administration point, whereas the central administration point has the global overview. A particularly advantageous method or system is created in the interaction and exchange of all entities.

The entity is also preferably set up to display the availability of the recipients in a table and/or by means of a map display. In this way, the recipients to be addressed can be selected and orders, inquiries, reports and/or information can be sent and/or received with receipt and/or read confirmations.

In a further preferred embodiment, the method is characterized in that the entities communicate with one another via chat, data exchange, preferably photos, videos and/or documents, voice and/or video. Such communication advantageously leads to better options for coordinating an alarm operation and also for exchanging information that goes beyond alerting the population. The selected communication channels are particularly fast and reliable and barrier-free, especially when used together. This means, for example, that hearing-impaired or blind people can also participate in communication via the entities.

In a further preferred embodiment, the method is characterized in that the entity is a terminal or a computer program product installed on a terminal or a web application, the terminal being selected from the group computer, laptop, notebook, tablet PC, tablet, smartphone, telecommunications terminal. The entity is not limited to the list of end devices listed here. In principle, end devices are preferably set up to communicate via a subsequent transmission method: mobile communications, digital radio, wired Internet, national government networks, alternative transmission methods (such as LoRaWAN) or satellite Internet. The aforementioned terminals can be used in a variety of ways and can advantageously also be used for other functions that go beyond the proposed method.

In a further preferred embodiment, the method is characterized in that the entity and/or server device generates a data set which, in addition to control commands, also includes audio data, with the output signal of the siren preferably outputting the audio data. An output signal that includes the output of an audio file can lead to an improved warning and thereby convey a greater information content to the population. This information content can also go beyond the mere warning of the population. For example, instructions can be issued on how the population should behave in the best case, with these preferably being dependent on the respective triggering event. Such audio signals are preferably output by electronic sirens.

In a further preferred embodiment, the method is characterized in that the siren comprises a data processing unit and at least one sensor, the at least one sensor being a current sensor and/or an acoustic sensor and/or a weather/environmental sensor, the data processing unit having a communication device , wherein the data processing unit generates siren-related and/or environment-related information based on parameters recorded by the sensors and/or executes the control commands of the first data set and/or external control commands that are introduced by a user via an interface.

A sensor (also detector or measuring transducer or measuring sensor) is a technical component and preferably the first element of a measuring chain in a measuring device. A sensor can have physical (e.g. amount of heat, temperature, humidity, pressure, sound field sizes, brightness, acceleration) or chemical (e.g. pH value, ionic strength, electrochemical potential) properties and/or the material composition of its environment qualitatively or quantitatively as a measured variable determine. These variables are recorded using physical or chemical effects and converted into an electrical signal that can be further processed. The sensor or the measuring device is preferably integrated in the siren.

In a preferred embodiment, the siren includes an active sensor. Active sensors generate a voltage due to their measuring principle and do not require any auxiliary electrical energy. Active sensors can be, for example, thermocouples, light sensors or pressure sensors. The installation of active sensors advantageously leads to lower energy consumption.

In a further preferred embodiment, the sensor of the siren is designed as a passive sensor. Passive sensors contain passive components whose parameters are changed by the measured variable. These parameters are converted into electrical signals by primary electronics. In this case, auxiliary energy supplied from the outside is required. Passive sensors are z. E.g.: Load cells, resistance thermometers, strain gauges, magnetic field sensors (Hall probe). Passive sensors advantageously deliver particularly accurate measurement results.

The communication device of the siren preferably has means for communication via the aforementioned transmission methods (mobile radio, digital radio, wired internet, state networks of the administrations, alternative transmission methods (such as LoRaWAN) or satellite internet). Such a means can comprise a transmitting and/or receiving unit.

In a further preferred embodiment, the method is characterized in that a telephone (microphone+loudspeaker) connected to the data processing unit can be used to communicate bidirectionally with an entity.

In a further preferred embodiment, the method is characterized in that the data processing unit comprises a single-board computer. A remote desktop tool and/or ssh/telnet access is preferably installed on the single-board computer. A single-board computer, often English. single-board computer (SBC), according to the invention Computer system in which all electronic components required for operation are combined on a single printed circuit board. The main advantage is the compact design, a wide range of possible uses and the extremely low price.

In a further preferred embodiment, the method is characterized in that the at least one sensor is a current sensor and/or an acoustic sensor and/or a weather/environmental sensor. With these sensors, the siren can advantageously record essential parameters about the siren itself or the environment surrounding the siren. Current sensors are preferably electrical components with which the current intensity in cables and busbars can usually be measured in a galvanically isolated (non-contact) manner using the magnetic flux density triggered by electrical currents. By monitoring the current, the readiness for operation and the functionality of a siren can advantageously be checked, whereupon an entity can react accordingly. The use of an acoustic sensor advantageously means that noises from the siren and the environment can be recorded. In addition to the current sensor, the information from the acoustic sensor can also be used to monitor the function and status of the sirens. Furthermore, this sensor can preferably be used to verify the correctness of the control commands. Among other things, the acoustic sensor prefers to pick up background noise in the environment or the output signal of the siren.

Preference is given to acoustic sensors, components in technical systems that supply information about states, with acoustic effects being utilized and acoustic converters generating signals that can be evaluated electronically.

In a preferred embodiment, the acoustic sensor is an active acoustic sensor. Active acoustic sensors preferably generate an ultrasonic field that is influenced by the environment. For example, the positions of boundary surfaces can be determined from sound reflections, from sound diffraction at edges or from frequency changes (acoustic Doppler effect) speeds. Such acoustic sensors are used, for example, in materials testing. They work non-destructively and can be easily adapted to the respective requirements. In the present case, an acoustic sensor can check the surroundings of the siren and/or "scan" it for the use of a continuous check, with a situational image being generated, for example, by corresponding reflections and being transmitted to the entities.

In a further preferred embodiment, the acoustic sensor is a passive acoustic sensor. In the case of passive acoustic sensors, noises (for example the output signal) of a siren and/or the environment surrounding the siren are preferably recorded. As a result, on the one hand, the output signal can be verified by the entity and, on the other hand, background noise or other noises such as calls for help can be picked up by the siren and transmitted to the entity. A microphone is preferably to be understood as a passive acoustic sensor.

According to the invention, a weather/environmental sensor is preferably selected from the group comprising a temperature sensor, air pressure sensor, humidity sensor, CO2 sensor, radiation sensor, gas sensor, biosensor, photo sensor and/or a camera. Furthermore can a weather/environmental sensor configured to sense wind direction. The recorded sensor data are preferably transmitted to the entities. With the inclusion of weather data such as the wind direction, the danger area can be defined, for example in the event of smoke development, and the associated sirens can thus be selected automatically by the entity. A weather/environmental sensor in the form of a camera in connection with a preferably AI-supported application on the data processing unit and/or the server device can classify or evaluate the situation on site.

In a further preferred embodiment, the method is characterized in that an identification number or a geographic area is assigned to a siren. The identification number of a siren means that control commands can be sent individually to each siren. A geographic area is preferably to be regarded as an area that has a spatial extent and can be assigned to a control center.

In a further preferred embodiment, the method is characterized in that the server device includes an authentication function, an application server, a database and a VoIP PBX.

An authentication function preferably includes a database of user IDs, passwords and other information such as IP addresses and permitted services. When an entity and/or siren attempts to log into the system of the invention, the entity and/or siren encrypts the user ID and password and sends them to the authentication function for verification. This compares the transmitted authentication data with the stored ones. If they match, the saved data of the checked user is released.

An application server, or application server, is generally a server on a computer network that runs application programs. An application server preferably offers a runtime environment for the server part of a client-server application, whereas in a web application the web browser preferably represents the client part of the application.

A database is preferably stored on a database server. Computers on which database systems are stored are preferably referred to as database servers, with the server preferably providing data management services that can be used from other computers. In larger systems with a high volume of data, high-performance mainframe computers are preferably configured as database servers, which serve as a hub for the flow of information.

A VoIP telephone system, also known as a VoIP telecommunications system or IP-PBX, is preferably a telephone system that no longer requires a conventional telephone connection, but rather the calls are conducted via an Internet connection. The voice information is preferably transported in small data packets over a data network instead of over the conventional telephone network. The network protocol SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) is used here. Since the VoIP telephone system uses the data network to connect to the telephones or other IP-enabled devices, a Telephone wiring at the company location is no longer necessary. Using a VoIP gateway, VoIP telephone systems can be connected to classic telephone lines, which means that the changeover is associated with little effort.

In a further preferred embodiment, the method is characterized in that, in the event of a disaster, further information is provided to the citizens in addition to the alarm. This is preferably solved by entities creating acoustic information and publishing them via the siren loudspeakers.

In a further preferred embodiment, the method is characterized in that as part of disaster management, the exchange of information between entities, control centers, situation centers, central management structure and / or facilities of the critical infrastructure is implemented and orders, inquiries, reports and / or information with receipt - and/or read receipts can be sent and/or received.

The advantages, technical effects and other statements discussed throughout the document in connection with the method according to the invention apply analogously to a system (according to the invention) for controlling sirens, for communication and for informing the population, which makes use of the method according to the invention. Likewise, all advantages, technical effects and other explanations in the context of the system are to be transferred to the method.

1. a) wobei die Entität dazu eingerichtet ist, aufgrund eines Auslösungsereignisses einen Datensatz mit Steuerungsbefehlen zu erzeugen und an die Servereinrichtung zu übermitteln, wobei die Steuerungsbefehle einer Sirene und/oder einer Sirenengruppe zugeordnet sind und die Steuerungsbefehle sowie die Sirene und/oder Sirenengruppe anhand des Auslösungsereignisses ausgewählt werden;
2. b) wobei die Servereinrichtung dazu eingerichtet ist, den Datensatz in einer Datenbank zu speichern;
3. c) wobei die Sirene und/oder Sirenengruppe dazu eingerichtet ist, die ihr zugeordneten Steuerungsbefehle von der Servereinrichtung abzurufen und ein Ausgabesignal aufgrund der Steuerungsbefehle zu erzeugen.

In a further preferred embodiment, the invention relates to a system for controlling sirens, for communication and for informing the population, characterized in that the system comprises a siren and/or siren group, an entity and a server device,

1. a) wherein the entity is set up to generate a data set with control commands based on a triggering event and to transmit it to the server device, the control commands being assigned to a siren and/or a siren group and the control commands and the siren and/or siren group based on the triggering event to be chosen;
2. b) the server device being set up to store the data record in a database;
3. c) the siren and/or siren group being set up to retrieve the control commands assigned to it from the server device and to generate an output signal on the basis of the control commands.

Such a system for solving the above-mentioned problem is neither known from the prior art nor suggested to an average person skilled in the art. Rather, the system according to the invention is to be regarded as a departure from the prior art, in which sirens are controlled in a network-based manner. In particular, the system is set up to carry out the method described above and the various embodiments of the method.

The proposed system is designed to control sirens, to inform the population, business, institutions and emergency services. Information is preferably transmitted bidirectionally and without delay between the triggering points and data processing units of the sirens via digital infrastructures. Through the use of different Internet technologies and protocols, the system is not limited to a specific data format during transmission and can also be easily adapted for future applications. The system preferably also includes disaster management functions that ensure communication between the initiating and responsible disaster control agencies. The places connected via the system communicate with each other preferably via chat, voice, video and data exchange. Accessible applications also enable people with disabilities to receive warnings and information.

With the system according to the invention, thousands of receivers (e.g. sirens) with defined signal sequences can be triggered within a few seconds in a control center area using various network technologies. The operational readiness of the system is monitored by means of continuous polls sent by the sirens to the server facility. Each siren transmits additional information, e.g. siren status and operational readiness. In response to the query, the server device sends appropriate information and control commands. The so-called polling process thus ensures that control commands and information are called up and at the same time that the operational readiness of the sirens is monitored. Colored markings show the status (e.g. "ready for use", "triggered", "faulty" or "logged off") in a visualization by a computer program product.

• die Sirene und/oder die Sirenengruppe dazu eingerichtet ist, zyklisch eine Abfrage an die Servereinrichtung zu übermitteln und mit der Abfrage der Servereinrichtung sirenen- und/oder umgebungsbezogene Informationen, bevorzugt Informationen über den Sirenenstatus und/oder der Funktionsbereitschaft, zu übermitteln;
• die Servereinrichtung dazu eingerichtet ist, in einer Antwort auf die Abfrage den Datensatz mit Steuerungsbefehlen an die Sirene und/oder Sirenengruppe zu übermitteln und die sirenen- und/oder umgebungsbezogene Informationen der Entität bereitzustellen.

In a further preferred embodiment, the system is characterized in that

• the siren and/or the siren group is set up to cyclically transmit a query to the server device and to transmit siren-related and/or environment-related information, preferably information about the siren status and/or the functional readiness, with the query to the server device;
• the server device is set up to transmit the data set with control commands to the siren and/or siren group in a response to the query and to provide the siren and/or environment-related information to the entity.

• die Sirene und/oder die Sirenengruppe dazu eingerichtet ist, Informationen und/oder Steuerungsbefehle über das Satelliteninternet und/oder Cell Broadcast zu empfangen.

In a further preferred embodiment, the system is characterized in that

• the siren and/or the siren group is set up to receive information and/or control commands via the satellite internet and/or cell broadcast.

1. (i) bidirektional zwischen der Servereinrichtung und der Sirene und/oderSirenengruppe;
   und/oder
2. (ii) bidirektional zwischen der Entität und der Servereinrichtung;

über ein Übertragungsverfahren, nämlich Mobilfunk, Digitalfunk, kabelgebundenen Internet, Landesnetze der Verwaltungen, alternative Übertragungsverfahren (wie LoRaWAN) oder Satelliteninternet übertragbar ist.In a further preferred embodiment, the system is characterized in that the data set

1. (i) bidirectional between the server device and the siren and/or siren group;
   and or
2. (ii) bidirectional between the entity and the server facility;

can be transmitted via a transmission method, namely mobile radio, digital radio, wired Internet, state networks of the administrations, alternative transmission methods (such as LoRaWAN) or satellite Internet.

In a further preferred embodiment, the system is characterized in that several transmission methods can be used redundantly and/or the transmission can be encrypted.

With the redundant use of different network technologies (so-called "hybrid transmission method"), the system preferentially addresses the users (preferably entities or sirens or other devices) either via a uniquely assigned ID or through a developed geographic object selection (GOA). In this case, a user (preferably an entity or a siren) is selected or controlled via a geographic area assigned to him, which is formed by a polygon on a geographic map. If a control command for a specific siren (ID) is preferably sent to the server device in the system according to the invention, this is stored in the database for retrieval by this siren. However, if a control command for a geographic area is transmitted to the server device, all objects (preferably a large number of sirens - i.e. siren groups) that are assigned to this geographic area or whose assigned geographic area overlaps with the transmitted one are first determined according to the geographic object selection . Then the control command for polling by all detected sirens (IDs) is stored in the database. In both variants, the respective sirens cyclically retrieve the control commands and information intended for them from the server device (polling).

In a further preferred embodiment, the system is characterized in that, as an alternative to polling, a query for the control commands and/or information by the siren and/or siren group is triggered by a push message, as a so-called trigger, and/or
there is a permanent connection, for example a socket connection, between the siren and/or siren group and the server device.

In a further preferred embodiment, the system is characterized in that the entity is assigned to a control center and/or a central administration structure and/or
one or more entities have a data connection to one another and communicate with one another, the entities preferably communicating via chat, voice, video and/or data exchange.

In the case of a cooperative working method, eg between the control centers and the civil protection offices, the preferred system can be used as a common platform with reporting channels for the automated exchange of information between different systems and administrative levels.

The availability of the recipients (preferably sirens, entities) is preferably displayed in a table and/or by a map display in a preferred computer program product and/or a web application. In this way, the recipients to be addressed can be selected and orders, inquiries, reports and/or information can be sent and/or received with receipt and/or read confirmations.

In a further preferred embodiment, the system is characterized in that the entity comprises a terminal or a computer program product installed on a terminal or a web application, the terminal being selected from the group of computer, laptop, notebook, tablet PC, tablet, smartphone, telecommunications terminal.

• die Entität dazu eingerichtet ist, einen Datensatz zu erzeugen, der neben Steuerungsbefehlen auch Audiodaten mit einem Audiosignal umfasst;
• die Sirene und/oder Sirenengruppe dazu eingerichtet ist, das Audiosignal alsAusgabesignal auszugeben.

In a further preferred embodiment, the system is characterized in that

• the entity is set up to generate a data set which, in addition to control commands, also includes audio data with an audio signal;
• the siren and/or siren group is arranged to emit the audio signal as an output signal.

• die Sirene und/oder Sirenengruppe dazu eingerichtet ist, die Lautstärke des Audiosignals in Abhängigkeit von der Windrichtung, Windstärke und/oder Umgebungslautstärke auszugeben.

In a further preferred embodiment, the system is characterized in that

• the siren and/or siren group is set up to output the volume of the audio signal depending on the wind direction, wind speed and/or ambient volume.

In a further preferred embodiment, the system is characterized in that the siren and/or siren group comprises a data processing unit and at least one sensor, the data processing unit having a communication device, the data processing unit being configured to use recorded parameters of the sensors siren and/or to generate environment-related information and/or to execute the control commands of the first data set and/or external control commands that are introduced by a user via an interface.

A siren data processing unit preferably consists of a computer (single-board computer with UPS), which can be connected via mobile radio (NB-loT, LTE, etc.), digital radio (TETRA, paging, etc.), wired Internet, state networks of the administrations , alternative transmission methods (LoRaWAN, etc.) or satellite internet is connected to the server setup. To increase security and stability during transmission, multiple transmission methods are preferably used redundantly. The information is transmitted in encrypted form using the polling method, with a siren data processing unit processing the messages or commands addressed to it directly or to a geographic area encompassing it. The siren data processing unit can be used both in existing sirens and in new sirens to be set up. Both electronic and motorized sirens can be triggered with fixed or individually defined siren sequences, which are configured in the user interface of a computer program product according to the invention. In the case of electronic sirens, voice announcements can preferably be made using pre-stored audio data or by transmitted audio data or text-to-speech conversion, also multilingual, can be generated. Loudspeakers in communities, companies, schools, train stations and factory sirens can also be integrated as electronic sirens via a switch for loudspeaker systems. Mobile sirens with a data processing unit can also be used on vehicles and drones in conjunction with automatic location determination (satellite navigation). A siren can also only consist of an amplifier and one or more loudspeakers or siren horns and can be connected to the siren data processing unit.

The power supply for the motorized sirens is controlled via relays, with a current sensor preferably monitoring the current flow. A connected acoustic sensor evaluates the signal tones measured to monitor the function of all types of sirens. At the locations of the emergency services, such as fire brigades, the messages are preferably shown on a connected display. A connection for sensors can be connected multifunctionally, e.g. with a smoke detector and/or a burglar alarm. Furthermore, a weather station can be connected, which provides weather data for the system according to the invention. For this purpose, weather sensors are connected to the siren data processing unit and their data is transmitted to the server device for evaluation. If required, these can also be made available to the weather services. The sirens can also be triggered locally via function keys, which are preferably attached to or connected to the siren data processing unit. With a publicly accessible telephone (also video telephone) connected to the siren data processing unit, an emergency call can be made, which is transmitted to the responsible rescue control center using the available transmission method with the highest priority (determined by the reliability and capacity of the connection).

In a further preferred embodiment, the system is characterized in that the data processing unit comprises a single-board computer.

In a further preferred embodiment, the system is characterized in that the at least one sensor is a current sensor and/or an acoustic sensor and/or a weather/environmental sensor.

In a further preferred embodiment, the system is characterized in that an identification number or a geographic area or an address or address list is assigned to a siren.

In a further preferred embodiment, the system is characterized in that the server device includes an authentication function, an application server, a database and a VoIP PBX.

The server setup preferably consists of an authentication function, application server, database and a VoIP PBX. The individual servers may each have multiple configurations (one server each for a geographic sub-area and/or for load balancing) and are redundant (backup servers take over the function in the event of a failure) and ensure interaction between the entities and the sirens. The connection between the Server setup and the data processing units can be done via mobile radio, digital radio, wired internet, state networks of the administrations, alternative transmission methods (such as LoRaWAN), satellite internet and a combination of these transmission methods.

Throughout the preferred system, the accesses of the users (the entities or the sirens) are preferably verified by the authentication function. Furthermore, the history of the siren triggering as well as the trigger and the siren status are preferably saved. Malfunctions and failures are preferably registered by an operational monitoring component. Access to the server device via an interface can be provided for receiving messages in the geographic location area, a preferred computer program product for disaster and warning messages, as well as operating systems with corresponding functionalities.

1. a) eine Datenverbindung zu einer Servereinrichtung aufzubauen, wobei die Servereinrichtung mit einer Sirene und/oder Sirenengruppe in Datenkommunikation steht;
2. b) einen Datensatz mit Steuerungsbefehlen zu erzeugen und an die Servereinrichtung zu übermitteln, wobei die Steuerungsbefehle einer Sirene und/oder einer Sirenengruppe zugeordnet sind;
3. c) durch eine Eingabe eines Nutzers über eine Schnittstelle und/oder automatisiert über einen Algorithmus die Steuerungsbefehle sowie die Sirene und/oder Sirenengruppe anhand eines Auslösungsereignisses auszuwählen.

In a further preferred embodiment, the invention relates to a computer program product for controlling sirens, for communication and for informing the population, characterized in that the computer program product is set up to

1. a) set up a data connection to a server device, the server device being in data communication with a siren and/or siren group;
2. b) to generate a data set with control commands and to transmit it to the server device, the control commands being assigned to a siren and/or a siren group;
3. c) to select the control commands and the siren and/or siren group based on a triggering event automatically by means of an input from a user via an interface and/or automatically via an algorithm.

The computer program product is preferably installed on an entity, in particular on a terminal device included in the entity.

• eine Benutzeroberfläche zu generieren, wobei auf dieser Standorte und Status einer Sirene oder einer Sirenengruppe auf einer Karte und/oder in Tabellenform darstellbar sind und über eine Schaltfläche die Auslösung inkl. Signalart sowie die Signalaufhebung/Entwarnung auswählbar ist.

In a further preferred embodiment, the computer program product is characterized in that the computer program product is set up to

• to generate a user interface, on which the locations and status of a siren or a group of sirens can be displayed on a map and/or in table form and the triggering including the type of signal and the cancellation of the signal/all-clear can be selected via a button.

The sirens can be selected directly or based on the area in which they are located (GOA) and the signal sequence and, if necessary, the signal cancellation or all-clear can be triggered by buttons on a user interface of the computer program product. The selection can be made both in the table and by graphically selecting a previously defined area, such as a city, a district or a freely defined area, in the map display, or by selecting an individual siren in the map display.

With the inclusion of weather data such as the wind direction, the danger area can be defined, e.g. in the event of smoke development, and the associated sirens can be selected automatically. When a siren or siren group is triggered, the name of the trigger is assigned to the corresponding data record (here: "Trigger") in the database and displayed to all authorized users of the system. When alerting mobile radio-capable devices, the mobile radio cells of the defined area are determined from the map display and triggered. If the cellphone-enabled device is a smartphone or mobile phone, a message is displayed and/or acoustically signaled by an app or a functionality integrated into the respective operating system.

The computer program product is preferably a web application and includes a user interface with buttons for triggering sirens and to support communication, with the responsible authorities (control centers, crisis teams of the federal, state, urban and rural districts, etc.) communicating with each other via chat, data exchange (e.g. photos or documents) and/or can communicate by voice and video using the integrated telephone module.

It is also possible to define geographic areas on a map and save them as a triggerable area. In addition, the sirens registered in the system can be managed and individual signal sequences can be defined, which can be selected when the sirens are triggered. Various user rights can be assigned via an integrated rights management system. The control centers and the central administrative structure are given the opportunity to use the computer program product for internal and external crisis communication, which avoids media/communication breaks. To alert the population, all mobile radio-capable devices (preferably by cell broadcast) located in a defined area can be triggered in the map display.

In a further preferred embodiment, the computer program product is characterized in that the computer program product is installed on an entity. A computer program product is preferably to be understood as a physical, ready-to-sell software product that includes a program.

1. a) Aufbauen einer Datenverbindung zu einer Servereinrichtung, wobei die Servereinrichtung mit einer Sirene und/oder Sirenengruppe in Datenkommunikation steht;
2. b) Erzeugen eines Datensatzes mit Steuerungsbefehlen und Übermittelung des Datensatzes an die Servereinrichtung, wobei die Steuerungsbefehle einer Sirene und/oder einer Sirenengruppe zugeordnet sind;
3. c) Auswahl der Steuerungsbefehle sowie der Sirene und/oder der Sirenengruppe durch eine Eingabe eines Nutzers über eine Schnittstelle und/oder automatisiert über einen Algorithmus.

According to the invention, a computer program product can be loaded into an internal memory of a digital computer and further comprises software code sections with which the following steps are carried out when the product is run on a computer:

1. a) Establishing a data connection to a server device, the server device being in data communication with a siren and/or siren group;
2. b) generation of a data set with control commands and transmission of the data set to the server device, the control commands being assigned to a siren and/or a siren group;
3. c) Selection of the control commands and the siren and/or the siren group by input from a user via an interface and/or automatically via an algorithm.

Further preferred embodiments of the invention

The invention also preferably relates to a method and an arrangement for controlling sirens for informing the population and for communication between the triggering/responsible locations.

The invention preferably enables alarm signals to be transmitted more quickly, with the simultaneous triggering of the sirens to be triggered occurring without delay.

A digital infrastructure is preferably used to ensure that the initiating/responsible bodies can also communicate with each other via data exchange, chat, voice and video beyond the administrative area assigned to them.

Until now, the sirens of the control centers were preferably triggered by alarm transmission with POCSAG (Post Office Code Standard Advisory Group). POCSAG is a paging transmission standard developed in the late 1970's. A disadvantage of this method is the long alarm runtimes with a large number of sirens to be triggered at the same time.

This is due to the complex addressing of the sirens, the push method used and the limited transmission capacity.

The sirens are controlled by a telecontrol receiver - there is no return channel that enables function monitoring and activation confirmation. The capability of the system is therefore only possible by manually listening to the siren tones on site, at which point malfunctions can only be identified.

Disaster situations are not tied to administrative borders, but there is still a lack of an infrastructure geared beyond this for the exchange of information between the disaster management agencies.

The current weather situation is of great importance for an optimal local assessment. So far, only the weather data has often been available without a direct or imprecise regional reference.

The invention is based, among other things, on the object of ensuring that all selected sirens are triggered simultaneously with defined signal sequences within seconds and of detecting operational readiness through continuous status reports. Furthermore, the triggering/responsible bodies should communicate with each other via data exchange, chat, voice and video.

The competent authorities are preferably addressed using their name and/or the geographic area assigned to them. The communication is preferably implemented via the web application or an application programmed accordingly for the respective operating system.

When a siren is triggered, the name of the sender is preferably assigned to the corresponding data record (triggering) in the database for central or regional triggering and control of the sirens and displayed to all authorized users of the system.

Within the framework of disaster management, the operators/facilities of the critical infrastructure (KRITIS) are preferably involved with the geographical areas and their names. The control server, with the application server, the database server and the TC system, also designed multiple times and redundantly, preferably ensures the interaction between the control center computer, the central control computer, stationary and mobile, and the siren control unit.

With the control center computer and central control computer, each with a headset and web application with the user interface, the locations and status of all sirens are preferably displayed on a geographical map and in table form. Buttons can be used to select the triggering including the type of signal and the cancellation of the signal/all clear. In the map display, all sirens located in an area to be defined can preferably be triggered by graphically selecting an area after confirmation. In addition, the locations of the operators/facilities of the critical infrastructure (KRITIS) are preferably shown.

With the inclusion of weather data, such as wind direction, the danger area is defined, for example in the event of smoke development, and the associated sirens are preferably selected automatically. For this purpose, weather sensors can be connected to the siren control units and their data can be sent to the control server for evaluation.

The tabular view of the user interface preferably shows the siren locations and their operating status, such as operational readiness, including power failure and siren status.

With the telephone module for VoIP integrated in the web application, communication is preferably ensured via voice (headset), video, chat and data exchange.

The connectivity between the computer control center, computer central control and the siren control unit is preferably via the control server via mobile radio (NB-loT, LTE, etc.), digital radio (BOS -TETRA), wired Internet, national networks of the administrations, satellite Internet and a combination of these Transmission method (redundancy).

In addition to controlling the sirens, an emergency call can be made manually using the telephone connected to the siren control unit or the trigger function keys, which is then transmitted to the responsible rescue control center using the available transmission method with the highest priority (quality of the connection).

Operational monitoring registers system deviations.

Various user rights are preferably assigned via an integrated rights management system. With the appropriate rights, a member of a control center group can create additional users of the control center.

The information is preferably retrieved and received in encrypted form using the polling method, with the control unit sirens preferentially processing the messages or commands addressed to it directly or to a geographic area encompassing it.

In the entire siren control system, the users computer control center and computer central control as well as the control units sirens are preferably authenticated for operation and the history of the siren activations and siren status are saved.

The siren control unit preferentially retrieves the information from the control server continuously. The sirens in a siren triggering area are preferably connected to the siren control unit to trigger the electronic sirens with signal tone or motor sirens with the siren trigger signal. Preferentially defined siren sequences or individually defined siren sequences, which are configured in the user interface, can be output.

The siren control unit preferably consists of a computer (single-board computer) with UPS and can be optionally connected on the input side to mobile radio, digital radio, wired Internet, state networks of the administrations, satellite Internet.

The triggering of the sirens is implemented on site with the function keys triggering manually. The power supply for the sirens is preferably controlled with a siren power connection relay, with a current sensor monitoring the siren operation. A connected acoustic sensor evaluates the acoustic signal tones for function monitoring.

The sensors connection is multifunctional, e.g. wired with a smoke detector and/or a burglar alarm.

Furthermore, a weather station can be switched on, which provides weather data for the computer control center.

The operating display preferably shows the current status of the siren control units and the functionality of the system.

In the case of sirens with a signal tone, voice announcements are preferably generated by means of ready-made, stored texts or alternatively by text-to-speech conversion, also in multiple languages. Loudspeakers in communities, companies, schools and factory sirens can also be controlled as sirens with signal tone via a switch loudspeaker systems through system integration. Likewise, mobile sirens with control unit sirens with automatic location determination (satellite navigation) can be used on vehicles and drones.

A siren can also only consist of an amplifier and one or more loudspeakers or siren horns and can be connected to the siren control unit.

Apps for disaster reports and operating systems with corresponding functionalities are preferably provided with access to the control server for receiving the reports in the occupied area.

A separate device with an integrated acoustic/noise sensor can preferably be used for hearing-impaired people, which identifies the signal tone and displays it via a light and/or vibration and/or a display. Alternatively, an app can be used, which also uses the microphone integrated in the smartphone or an external microphone beep identified and identified by a light and/or vibration and/or indication on the display. Additional information can also be retrieved from the control server. If a voice announcement sounds from the siren, it is converted into text and displayed using voice recognition.

To alert the population, all sirens and/or other mobile radio-capable devices located in a defined area can be triggered in the map display by graphically selecting an area using cell broadcast. For this purpose, when selecting an area to be triggered, the relevant mobile radio cells for the execution of the cell broadcast are determined. As an alternative or in addition to triggering from the map display, a previously defined area, such as a city, a district or a freely defined area, is triggered from a tabular and/or other textual display.

If the cellphone-enabled device is a smartphone or mobile phone, a message is displayed and/or acoustically signaled by an app or a functionality integrated into the respective operating system.

At the locations of the emergency services, such as fire brigades, the messages are preferably shown on a display, with a voice connection to the triggering computer control center being able to be produced by telephone.

As part of disaster management, the siren control system can be used as a common platform with reporting channels for the automated exchange of information between different systems and administrative levels. Orders, inquiries, reports and/or information can be sent and received with receipt and read confirmations.

In a further preferred embodiment, the method for controlling sirens, for communication and for informing the population is characterized in that a siren control unit is implemented by a computer, preferably a single-board computer, which is connected via mobile radio and/or the cable Internet and / or national networks of the administrations and / or satellite Internet and / or digital radio is controlled.

In a further preferred embodiment, the method for controlling sirens, for communication and for informing the population is characterized in that triggering/responsible bodies communicate with each other via computer control center and computer central control via data exchange, chat, voice and video, and that the communication implemented via the web application or an application programmed accordingly for the respective operating system.

In a further preferred embodiment, the method is characterized in that the connectivity between the computer control center, computer central control and the control unit sirens via the control server via mobile radio (NB-loT, LTE, etc.) and / or digital radio (BOS -TETRA) and /or wired internet and/or national administration networks and/or satellite internet and/or a combination of these transmission methods.

• dass über die Benutzeroberfläche der Webanwendung, oder einer für das jeweilige Betriebssystem entsprechend programmierte Anwendung, die Standorte und der Status aller Sirenen auf einer Karte und/oder in Tabellenform dargestellt sind und über die Schaltflächen die Auslösung inkl. Signalart sowie die Signalaufhebung/Entwarnung auswählbar sind,
• dass in der Kartendarstellung alle in einem zu definierenden Bereich befindlichen Sirenen durch zeichnerische Auswahl eines Gebietes auslösbar sind,
• dass alternativ oder ergänzend zur Auslösung aus der Kartendarstellung, eine Auslösung eines zuvor definierten Gebietes, wie zum Beispiel einer Stadt, einem Landkreis oder einer frei definierten Fläche, sowie auch einer oder mehrerer direkt ausgewählter Sirenen, aus einer tabellarischen und/oder sonstigen textuellen Darstellung erfolgt,
• dass die Auslösung der Sirenen mit zuvor definierten oder auch individuell definierten Sirenenfolgen, welche in der Benutzeroberfläche konfiguriert werden können, erfolgt,
• dass der Abruf und Empfang der Informationen verschlüsselt erfolgt, wobei die Steuereinheit Sirenen die an sie direkt oder an einen sie umfassenden geografischen Bereich adressierte Meldungen bzw. Befehle verarbeitet,
• dass die elektronischen Sirenen mit Signalton bzw. Motorsirenen mit Auslösesignal Sirene zur Auslösung mit der Steuereinheit Sirenen verbunden werden.

In a further preferred embodiment, the method for controlling sirens, for communication and for informing the population is characterized in that

• that via the user interface of the web application, or an application programmed accordingly for the respective operating system, the locations and the status of all sirens are shown on a map and/or in table form and the triggering including the signal type as well as the signal cancellation/all-clear can be selected via the buttons ,
• that in the map display all sirens located in an area to be defined can be triggered by graphically selecting an area,
• that alternatively or in addition to triggering from the map display, a previously defined area, such as a city, a district or a freely defined area, as well as one or more directly selected sirens, is triggered from a tabular and/or other textual display ,
• that the sirens are triggered with previously defined or individually defined siren sequences, which can be configured in the user interface,
• that the information is retrieved and received in encrypted form, with the siren control unit processing the messages or commands addressed to it directly or to a geographical area encompassing it,
• that the electronic sirens with signal tone or motor sirens with siren trigger signal are connected to the siren control unit for triggering.

In a further preferred embodiment, the method for controlling sirens, for communication and for informing the population is characterized in that the danger area is defined, taking into account weather data such as wind direction, and the relevant sirens are preferably selected automatically.

• dass bei Sirenen mit Signalton Sprachdurchsagen mittels vorgefertigter gespeicherter Texte oder alternativ durch Text-in-Sprache-Umwandlung, auch mehrsprachig, generiert werden,
• dass vorhandene Sirenen mit Signalton in Gemeinden, Unternehmen, Schulen und Werkssirenen über einen Umschalter Lautsprecheranlagen in das System integriert und direkt angesteuert werden,
• dass mobile Sirenen mit Steuereinheit Sirenen mit automatischer Standortermittlung auf Fahrzeugen und Drohnen eingesetzt werden,
• dass Apps für Katastrophenmeldungen sowie Betriebssystemen mit entsprechenden Funktionalitäten der Zugang zum Serversystem zum Empfang der Meldungen im Aufenthaltsbereich bereitgesellt wird,
• dass für hörgeschädigte Menschen ein separates Gerät mit integriertem Akustik-/Geräuschsensor bereitgestellt wird, welches den Signalton identifiziert und über eine Leuchte und/oder Vibration und/oder eine Anzeige darstellt,
• dass ergänzend oder alternativ für hörgeschädigte Menschen eine App, welche über das in das Smartphone integrierte oder über ein externes Mikrofon den Signalton identifiziert und durch eine Leuchte und/oder Vibration und/oder Anzeige auf dem Display kenntlich macht und zusätzlich, falls notwendig, weitere Informationen vom Steuerungsserver abruft und bei Sprachansagen aus der Sirene diese mittels Spracherkennung in Text umgewandelt und angezeigt werden.

In a further preferred embodiment, the method for controlling sirens, for communication and for informing the population is characterized in that

• that in the case of sirens with a signal tone, voice announcements are generated by means of ready-made, stored texts or alternatively by text-to-speech conversion, also in multiple languages,
• that existing sirens with signal tone in communities, companies, schools and factory sirens are integrated into the system via a switch and directly controlled,
• that mobile sirens with control unit sirens with automatic location determination are used on vehicles and drones,
• that apps for disaster reports and operating systems with corresponding functionalities are provided with access to the server system for receiving the reports in the occupied area,
• that a separate device with an integrated acoustic/noise sensor is provided for hearing-impaired people, which identifies the signal tone and displays it via a light and/or vibration and/or a display,
• that additionally or alternatively for hearing-impaired people an app, which identifies the signal tone via the microphone integrated into the smartphone or via an external microphone and makes it recognizable by a light and/or vibration and/or display on the display and, if necessary, further information from the control server and, in the case of voice announcements from the siren, these are converted into text and displayed using voice recognition.

In a further preferred embodiment, the method for controlling sirens, for communication and for informing the population is characterized in that, in addition to controlling the sirens, an emergency call, optionally including video telephony, is manually triggered using the telephone connected to the data processing unit or the function keys can be transmitted, which is transmitted to the responsible rescue control center using an available transmission method.

• dass eine Plattform mit Meldewegen zum automatisierten Informationsaustausch verschiedener Systeme und Verwaltungsebenen bereitgestellt wird und darüber Aufträge, Anfragen, Berichte und/oder Informationen mit Empfangs- und/oder Lesebestätigungen gesendet und/oder empfangen werden,

In a further preferred embodiment, the method for controlling sirens, for communication and for informing the population is characterized in that in the context of disaster management, the locations of the computer control center, computer central control and operators / facilities of the critical infrastructure with the geographical areas and their designation can be integrated into the map display,

• that a platform with reporting channels for the automated exchange of information between different systems and administrative levels is provided and that orders, inquiries, reports and/or information with receipt and/or read confirmations are sent and/or received,

In a further preferred embodiment, the invention relates to an arrangement for controlling sirens, for communication and for informing the population, characterized in that a weather station is attached to the siren or in its vicinity, the weather sensors of which are connected to the siren control unit ( also wireless) and their data is transmitted to the control server for evaluation.

• dass in der Kartendarstellung alle in einem zu definierenden Bereich befindlichen Sirenen und/oder sonstigen mobilfunkfähigen Geräte durch zeichnerische Auswahl eines Gebietes auslösbar sind,
• dass alternativ oder ergänzend zur Auslösung aus der Kartendarstellung, eine Auslösung eines zuvor definierten Gebietes, wie zum Beispiel einer Stadt, einem Landkreis oder einer frei definierten Fläche, aus einer tabellarischen und/oder sonstigen textuellen Darstellung erfolgt,
• dass die Auslösung der mobilfunkfähigen Geräte mittels Cell Broadcast erfolgt,
• dass bei der Auswahl eines auszulösenden Gebietes, die betreffenden Mobilfunkzellen für die Ausführung des Cell Broadcasts ermittelt werden,
• dass die Auslösung eines mobilfunkfähigen Gerätes, wie einem Smartphone oder Mobiltelefon, die Anzeige und/oder akustische Signalisierung einer Meldung, durch eine App oder eine in das jeweilige Betriebssystem integrierte Funktionalität, umfasst.

In a further preferred embodiment, the method for controlling sirens, for communication and for informing the population is characterized in that

• that in the map display all sirens and/or other mobile radio-capable devices located in an area to be defined can be triggered by graphically selecting an area,
• that alternatively or in addition to triggering from the map display, a previously defined area, such as a city, a district or a freely defined area, is triggered from a tabular and/or other textual display,
• that the mobile radio-capable devices are triggered by means of cell broadcast,
• that when selecting an area to be triggered, the relevant mobile radio cells for the execution of the cell broadcast are determined,
• that the triggering of a mobile device, such as a smartphone or mobile phone, includes the display and/or acoustic signaling of a message by an app or a functionality integrated into the respective operating system.

CHARACTERS

The invention is to be explained in more detail below with reference to figures, without being restricted to these.

Brief description of the illustrations

Fig.1

Schematic representation of a preferred embodiment of the system according to the invention

Fig.2

Schematic representation of a preferred data processing unit of a siren

Detailed description of the illustrations

Fig.1 1 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the system according to the invention for controlling a siren 31 and/or a siren group 3, for communication and for informing the population, which is preferably suitable for carrying out a method according to the invention. A first entity 5 is assigned to a control center or situation center 2 . This means that the control center/the situation center 2 preferably has an entity 5, such as a computer, on its premises. This computer is preferably set up to generate control commands for a siren 31 and/or a siren group 3 manually by a person and/or automatically. The entity 5 or the computer preferably has a corresponding computer program product and/or has access to corresponding web applications for generating the control commands. In the event of a triggering event - such as a natural disaster - a person can select, preferably via entity 5 , which siren 31 and/or siren group 3 should sound the alarm, with the alarm being defined as an output signal. It can also be preferred that the selection is carried out automatically by the entity 5 or a computer program product installed on a computer. After the siren 31 and/or siren group 3 has been selected, the entity 5 generates a data record with the control commands and transmits it to a server device 1 .

In addition, the system preferably has a second entity 5 which is assigned to a central management structure 4 . A central administrative structure 4 should preferably be seen as the Federal Office for Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance (BBK) or crisis management teams at the federal, state, urban and rural levels. Similar to the first entity 5, which is assigned to the control center/the situation center 2 , the second entity 5 is preferably also designed as a computer with appropriately installed computer program products and/or access to appropriate web applications, so that control commands for a siren 31 and/or siren group 3 in a record can be generated after one for one Alarm specific siren 31 and/or siren group 3 has been selected. It goes without saying that the entities 5 can also be in the form of a smartphone, laptop, tablet PC, tablet or other end devices.

Both of the aforementioned entities 5 (the control center/the situation center 2 and the central management structure 4) are in a data connection with a server device 1. The entities 5 communicate with the server device 1 preferably via wired Internet (also router WLAN) 38 and/or state networks of Administrations 38a.

Furthermore, a third entity 5 (for example another computer) is assigned to an operational monitor 53 which also has a data connection to the server device 1 . The operation monitor 53 preferably registers system deviations.

The server device 1 of the preferred system comprises several components. It preferably has an authentication function 10 , an application server 11 , a database 12 and a VoIP PBX 13 . The server device 1 has means for communicating via different communication paths or transmission methods (in combination and redundantly). The server device 1 is also preferably in communication with a data processing unit 32 of the siren 31 and/or with a large number of sirens, which represent a siren group 3 . The data processing unit 32 preferably communicates via wired Internet (also router WLAN) 38 and/or mobile radio 36 and/or digital radio 37 and/or alternative transmission methods such as LoRaWAN 37a and/or a satellite connection, i.e. via satellite Internet 39 and/or state networks of the administrations 38a. The server device 1 stores the data set with control commands received from an entity 5 in a database 12. The data processing unit 32 of the siren 31 and/or siren group 3 cyclically sends a query to the server device 1, the query being a query for new ones to the respective siren-directed control commands. If new control commands assigned to siren 31 and/or siren group 3 are included in the database, these are transmitted to or retrieved by server device 1 based on the query to respective data processing unit 32 of siren 31 and/or siren group 3 . Based on the control commands received, the siren 31 and/or siren group 3 emits an alarm or an output signal. In another case, in which there are no control commands for the respective siren 31 and/or siren group 3 stored on the server device 1 , the siren 31 does not carry out any action, i.e. no alarm, since it does not receive any control commands from the server device 1 . After a predefined time, the siren 31 and/or siren group 3 generates another query and transmits it to the server device 1, so that the status of the siren 31 and/or siren group 3 can be continuously updated and new control commands can be implemented.

A siren 31 preferably has a data processing unit 32 . Furthermore, the siren 31 or the data processing unit 32 can preferably have a switch for loudspeaker systems 52 . In particular in the case of electric sirens 31 , the output signal is made available for loudspeakers in addition to the siren horn. The siren 31 and/or siren group 3 also has sensors that are siren- or environment-dependent Can record parameters and provide the server device 1 in the course of the query sent. The server device 1 , on the other hand, can transmit these parameters to the individual entities 5 (preferably the control center, the situation center 2, the central administration structure 4 and/or the operations monitor 53) . In this way, bi-directional communication between siren 31 and entity 5 is made possible.

Output signals can also be in the form of voice announcements that are generated with entity 5 and/or server device 1 . The audio signals are generated with a microphone 61 on the entity 5 and/or directly on site on the data processing unit 32 . Alternatively, audio signals can be transmitted by a text that is converted into speech in the data processing unit 32 and/or the server device 1 (text-to-speech).

If the transmission channels used by default fail, the control commands and the transmission of audio signals are transmitted between the entity 5 and/or the server device 1 and the data processing unit 32 via an autonomous radio system such as LoRaWAN, PMR, CB radio or others. The power supply relevant to the output signal is preferably controlled by the relay 35 in the case of motorized sirens 31 . In the case of electronic sirens, the signals, warnings and/or information are output via the audio output/power amplifier 62 .

Furthermore, the entities 5 (preferably the control center, the situation center 2, the central management structure 4 and/or the operational monitoring 53) and the siren 31 and/or siren group 3 are authenticated for operation using the authentication function 10 and the history of the siren activations throughout the system and siren status saved.

2 1 schematically represents a component arrangement of a preferred data processing unit 32. The data processing unit 32 preferably includes a communication device 9. The data processing unit 32 and the communication device 9 are included on a single-board computer, with the communication device 9 being set up to enable data transmissions on different communication paths. It is thus possible for the data processing unit 32 to receive and/or send data via mobile radio 36, digital radio 37, alternative transmission methods such as LoRaWAN 37a, wired Internet (router WLAN) 38, national administration networks 38a and/or satellite Internet 39 . In addition, the siren 31 preferably has a power storage device 33 . This can be designed, for example, as a so-called power bank, which ensures an uninterruptible power supply (UPS). In addition, the siren 31 includes a power connection 34 and a relay 35 and/or an audio output/power amplifier 62 and an operating display 44. The relay 35 preferably controls the power supply relevant to the output signal in the case of motorized sirens 31 . In the case of electronic sirens, the signals, warnings and/or information are output via the audio output/power amplifier 62 . The siren 31 particularly preferably also has sensors such as a current 41 or acoustic sensor 42 , these sensors being able to record siren-related and/or environment-related information Server device 1 and / or other entities 5 can be made available. It is also possible for the data processing unit 32 of the siren 31 to have an input interface 40 via which a person, preferably the fire department, can trigger a signal sequence for the siren 31 using an alarm button, which in turn can be transmitted to the server device 1 and the other entities 5 . Bidirectional communication is made possible by connecting a telephone (microphone + loudspeaker) 43 to the data processing unit 32 of the siren 31 or to a router, e.g. the wired Internet 38 , so that people can communicate with the control center, the situation center 2 .

Reference List

1

server setup

2

Control room, situation center

3

siren group

4

central management structure

5

entity

9

communication facility

10

authentication function

11

application server

12

Database

13

VoIP PBX

31

siren

32

data processing unit

33

power storage

34

power connection

35

relay

36

cellular

37

digital radio

37a

alternative transmission methods such as LoRaWAN

38

wired Internet (also router WLAN)

38a

National networks of administrations

39

satellite internet

40

input interface

41

current sensor

42

acoustic sensor

43

Telephone (microphone + speaker)

44

power indicator

52

Loudspeaker switch

53

operational monitoring

56

Critical infrastructure facilities

61

microphone

62

Audio Output/Power Amplifier

Claims (15)

Methods for controlling sirens (31, 3), for communication and for informing the population
characterized in that a) an entity (5) generates a data set with control commands as a result of a triggering event and transmits it to a server device (1), the control commands being assigned to a siren (31) and/or a siren group (3) and the control commands and the siren (31 ) and/or siren group (3) are selected based on the triggering event; b) the server device (1) stores the data set in a database; c) the siren (31) and/or siren group (3) retrieves the control commands assigned to it from the server device (1) or transmits them; d) the siren (31) and/or siren group (3) generates an output signal as a function of the control commands. Method according to claim 1
characterized in that - The siren (31) and/or the siren group (3) cyclically transmits a query to the server device (1), with the query the siren (31) and/or siren group (3) of the server device (1) sending sirens and/or or environment-related information, preferably information about the siren status and / or operational readiness transmitted; - The server device (1) transmits the data set with control commands to the siren (31) and/or the siren group (3) in a response to the query; - the siren and/or environment related information of the entity (5) is provided - an identification number or a geographic area is assigned to a siren (31) and/or siren group (3). Method according to one or both of the preceding claims
characterized in that
a transmission of data, in particular the data record and/or the siren and/or environment-related information, (i) bidirectional between the server device (1) and the siren (31)
and/or siren group (3);
and or (ii) bidirectional between the entity (5) and the server device (1); takes place redundantly via a transmission method or in combination or via several transmission methods, namely mobile radio (36), digital radio (37), alternative transmission methods such as LoRaWAN (37a), wired Internet (also router WLAN) (38), state networks of the administrations (38a) or satellite internet (39), the transmission preferably being encrypted. Method according to one or more of the preceding claims
characterized in that the entity (5) is assigned to a control center (2) and/or a central administration structure (4) and/or a device of the critical infrastructure (56) and/or one or more entities (5) have a direct and/or indirect data connection with one another and communicate with one another via chat, data exchange, voice and/or video. Method according to one or more of the preceding claims
characterized in that the entity (5) comprises a terminal or a computer program product installed on a terminal or a web application, the terminal being selected from the group computer, laptop, notebook, tablet PC, tablet, smartphone, telecommunications terminal. and or the entity (5) and/or the server device (1) generates a data set which, in addition to control commands, also includes audio data, the output signal of the siren (31) and/or siren group (3) preferably outputting the audio signals of the audio data. Method according to one or more of the preceding claims
characterized in that the siren comprises a data processing unit (32) and at least one sensor, - wherein the at least one sensor is a current sensor (41) and/or an acoustic sensor (42) and/or a weather/environmental sensor, - wherein the data processing unit (32) has a communication device (9), wherein the data processing unit (32) generates siren-related and/or environment-related information based on parameters recorded by the sensors and/or the control commands of the data set and/or external control commands that are transmitted via an interface (40) brought in by a user, - Wherein the data processing unit (32) preferably comprises a single-board computer and preferably a remote desktop tool and/or an ssh/telnet access is installed, which is used by an operational monitor (53). - It being possible to communicate bidirectionally with an entity (5) preferably with a telephone (microphone+loudspeaker) (43) connected to the data processing unit (32). Method according to one or more of the preceding claims
characterized in that
the server device includes an authentication function (10), an application server (11), a database (12) and a VoIP PBX (13). - The server device (1) is preferably in a data connection with an entity (5), which is assigned to an operational monitor (53); - preferably when a siren (31) and/or siren group (31) is triggered, a triggering confirmation is transmitted via the server device (1) to the entity (5). Method according to one or more of the preceding claims
characterized in that - if the transmission channels used by default fail, the control commands and/or audio signals are transmitted via a self-sufficient radio system; - the autonomous radio system between the siren (31) and the entity (5) and/or the server device (1) is operated, is secured by one or more UPS or power storage devices and continuous monitoring of the transmission channels (36, 37, 37a, 38, 38a, 39) takes place, in the event of their failure there is an automatic switchover to the autonomous radio system; - the radio connection, in the form of radio systems, such as preferably LoRaWAN, PMR, CB radio is integrated. Method according to one or more of the preceding claims
characterized in that - the siren (31) and/or the siren group (3) broadcast information and/or control commands via the satellite internet (39) and/or cell broadcast (14) and/or mobile radio (36) and in particular triggers an output signal immediately or after querying the server device (1). Method according to one or more of the preceding claims
characterized in that - a mobile phone/smartphone receive the alerts and/or information on a disaster generated by an entity (5) and/or identify the signal tone and/or recognize the information by means of a microphone, - hearing-impaired people are made aware of the warnings and information via a mobile phone/smartphone, with an app preferably generating light signals and/or vibration and/or showing the warning and/or information on the display, - the light signals are implemented by lighting up the display and/or built-in lamps/flashlights of the mobile phone/smartphone and/or by vibrating built-in mechanisms of the mobile phone/smartphone and/or by externally connected signaling devices for light and/or vibration. Method according to one or more of the preceding claims
characterized in that - the audio signals or acoustic output are generated with a microphone (61) on the entity (5) and/or directly on site on the siren (31), and/or - To generate the audio signals or acoustic output on the entity (5) and/or the server device (1), a text is entered and/or selected and/or generated, which is sent to the siren (31) and/or siren group (3) is transmitted and/or retrieved from it and is converted into speech (text-to-speech) by the data processing unit (32). Method according to one or more of the preceding claims
characterized in that - within the framework of disaster management, the exchange of information between entities (5), control centres, situation centers (2), central administrative structure (4) and/or critical infrastructure facilities (56) is implemented and orders, inquiries, reports and/or information are shared Acknowledgments of receipt and/or reading can be sent and/or received. System for controlling sirens (31, 3), for communication and for informing the population
characterized in that
the system comprises a siren (31) and/or siren group (3), at least one entity (5) and a server device (1), the system being configured to carry out a method according to one or more of the preceding claims. Computer program product for controlling sirens (31, 3), for communication and for informing the population, which is stored in a computer-usable medium, characterized in that
the computer program product is set up to a) establishing a data connection to a server device (1), the server device (1) being in data communication with a siren (31) and/or siren group (3); b) to generate a data set with control commands and to transmit it to the server device (1), the control commands being assigned to a siren (31) and/or a siren group (3); c) to select the control commands and the siren (31) and/or siren group (3) based on a trigger event by an input from a user via an interface and/or automatically via an algorithm. Computer program product according to claim 14
characterized in that
the computer program product is set up to - to generate a user interface, on which the locations and status of a siren (31) or a siren group (3) can be displayed on a map and/or in table form and the triggering including the type of signal and the cancellation of the signal/all clear can be selected via a button, - The computer program product being installed on an entity (5), the entity (5) comprising a terminal device.

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