AU2017101369A4 - An alert system for work sites - Google Patents

Abstract

Abstract Disclosed herein is an alert system and method for use with one or more work sites. In use, the disclosed system and method provide alerts to the relevant work site personnel, such as an incident report to a work site manager or an evacuation siren to site workers. The disclosure is applicable any type of work sites, but is particularly useful to work sites that have temporary or unreliable power supply. For example, the disclosure is applicable to construction and/or building work sites, mining work sites, chemical processing plants, oil drilling platforms. Further, the disclosure is particularly useful in the case of multiple work sites, where a site specific alert may be provided to the relevant work site personnel, such as a work site manager managing multiple work sites at the same time. 102a Mesh Network 4 ------------------ -------- "Siren Base Station Call Pognts 102b Mesh Network 5 6Cloud ' ,.Siren - - - - -- - 1 Base Station Call Points Fig. 1

Description

An alert system for work sites Field of the invention

The present invention generally relates to an alert system and method for one or more work sites. More particularly, the present invention relates to an alert system and method for one or more work sites with multiple alert modules deployed across the one or more work sites.

Background of the invention

Work site safety in potentially hazardous areas such as building sites and construction sites is important. It would be desirable to reduce or minimise work site safety issues from operational, personal and regulatory perspectives. Despite best practice and safety procedures, however, accidental injuries or incidents in work sites do occur, at least partly due to the complex and unique environment each work site presents. For example, a building site includes presence of workers from different trades and contracting companies, working in close proximity with different tools and different risks. Further, the increase in construction of multi-storey buildings has hindered quick access of all areas of a building site. In the event of an incident, it can be vital to have immediate access to medical assistance.

Alert or nurse call systems play a role in decreasing response times and minimising injury trauma to work site workers. However, the work site environment can be frequently changing as work site activities progress. The changes can be physical, such addition or removal of a wall or a storey. The changes can alternatively or additionally be non-physical, such as radio interference or signal degradation from constructed concrete walls, scaffolding, constantly moving heavy machinery and other equipment. There can be frequent power disruptions, such as a lack of available mains power, and a high risk of outage to communications devices and infrastructure.

Reference to any prior art in the specification is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgment or any form of suggestion that this prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in any jurisdiction or that this prior art could reasonably be expected to be understood, regarded as relevant and/or combined with other pieces of prior art by a person skilled in the art.

Summary of the disclosure

In one aspect the present invention provides an alert system for use with a work site, the alert system including: multiple alert modules for deployment across the work site, the multiple alert modules including an evacuation module; an on-site module for positioning at the work site, the on-site module configured for two-way direct or indirect wireless communication with the multiple alert modules; a remote module in two-way remote communication with the on-site module and at least one user device; and wherein the evacuation module is configured to be remotely controllable by the user device, via the on-site module, to remotely activate an evacuation siren.

In a second aspect the present invention provides an alert system for use with a work site, the alert system including: multiple alert modules for deployment across the work site, the multiple alert modules including a notification module; an on-site module for positioning at the work site, the on-site module configured for twoway direct or indirect wireless communication with the multiple alert modules; a remote module in two-way remote communication with the on-site module and at least one user device; and wherein the notification module is configured to be remotely controllable by the user device, via the on-site module, to remotely schedule sleep cycles of the notification module.

Also described herein is an alert system for use with one or more work sites, the alert system including: an on-site module at each respective one of the one or more of the work sites, the on-site module configured for two-way direct or indirect wireless communication with multiple alert modules deployed across the respective one of the one or more of the work sites, the on-site module configured to receive an on-site alert signal from one of the multiple alert modules upon its activation; and a remote module in two-way remote communication with the on-site module and at least one user device, the remote module configured to send a site-specific alert to the at least one user device responsive to the on-site alert signal received by the on-site module.

The alert system may further comprise the multiple alert modules each configured to transmit the on-site alert signal to the on-site module upon activation.

In the case of the two-way indirect communication, at least one of the multiple alert modules may be configured to wirelessly communicate to the on-site module via at least one other of the multiple alert modules.

Each of the multiple alert modules may include a notification module and/or an evacuation module.

The evacuation module may include a siren trigger and a siren receiver, and the siren trigger upon activation may send an on-site evacuation signal to the on-site module, which upon receipt of the on-site evacuation signal causes the remote module to send a site-specific evacuation alert to the at least one user device responsive to the on-site evacuation signal received by the on-site module.

Alternatively, the evacuation module may include a siren trigger and a siren receiver, and the siren trigger upon activation may send an on-site evacuation signal to the siren receiver to cause an evacuation siren.

At least one user device may be configured to configure one or more settings of the on-site module and via the remote communication. The at least one user device may include a user application for a user to configure the one or more settings of the on-site module via the user application.

At least one user device may be configured to undertake either or both of the following two actions: • control one or more operations of the multiple alert modules via the remote communication to the on-site module and via the wireless communication to the multiple alert modules. • monitor status of the multiple alert modules via the on-site module via the remote communication to the on-site module and via the wireless communication to the multiple alert modules.

The at least one user device may include a user application for a user to undertake either or both of the two actions. Where the multiple alert modules include an evacuation module, and the one or more controllable operations of the multiple alert modules may include remote activation of an evacuation siren. Where the multiple alert modules include a notification module, and the one or more controllable operations of the multiple alert modules include remote scheduling of sleep cycles.

Further aspects of the present invention and further embodiments of the aspects described in the preceding paragraphs will become apparent from the following description, given by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Brief description of the drawings

Figure 1 illustrates an example of an alert system for use with one or more work sites.

Figure 2 illustrates an example of an on-site module.

Figure 3 illustrates an example of a notification module.

Figure 4 illustrates an example of a siren trigger.

Figure 5 illustrates an example of a siren receiver.

Figure 6 illustrates a schematic configuration of an example mesh network.

Detailed description of embodiments

Disclosed herein is an alert system and method for use with one or more work sites. In use, the disclosed system and method provide alerts to the relevant work site personnel, such as an incident report to a work site manager or an evacuation siren to site workers. The disclosure is applicable any type of work sites, but is particularly useful to work sites that have temporary or unreliable power supply. For example, the disclosure is applicable to construction and/or building work sites, mining work sites, chemical processing plants, oil drilling platforms, dangerous work sites or any site that can require evacuation. Further, the disclosure is particularly useful in the case of multiple work sites, where a site-specific alert may be provided to the relevant work site personnel, such as a work site manager managing multiple work sites at the same time.

Overview

Figure 1 illustrates an example of the disclosed system. A system (100) is configured for use with work sites (102a) and (102b). The system (100) includes an on-site module (1) at each of the work sites (102a and 102b). The on-site module (1) is configured for two-way direct or indirect wireless communication with multiple alert modules (2, 3, 4) deployed across the respective one of the one or more of the work sites (102a and 102b). Direct wireless communication denotes wireless communication between an alert module and the on-site module via a direct wireless link, whereas indirect wireless communication denotes wireless communication between an alert module and the on-site module via one or more of other neighbouring alert modules that are within range of one another. A skilled person would appreciate that the system (100) may be used with more or fewer work sites than illustrated.

The on-site module (1) is configured to receive an on-site alert signal from one of the multiple alert modules (2, 3, 4) upon its activation via the two-way communication. In one arrangement, the alert modules (2, 3, 4) are selectively installed in the respective work sites (102a and 102b) at locations convenient or otherwise accessible for site workers to activate in case of an incident.

The system (100) also includes a remote module (6) in two-way remote communication with the on-site module (1) and at least one user device (7, 8). The remote module (6) is configured to send a site-specific alert to the at least one user device (7, 8) responsive to the on-site alert signal received by the on-site module (1). The two-way remote communication may be conducted via one or more communication networks, such as a mobile network (e.g. GSM, 3G, LTE cellular network), a wired network (ADSL or ISDN network) and a wireless local area network (e.g. WiFi network). The at least one user device may be a mobile device, such as a mobile phone, a tablet or a laptop, or a non-mobile device, such as a workstation or a desktop computer. In one arrangement, the remote module (6) is cloud-based. For example, it is hosted on a server in a data centre which has wired connectivity to the internet, via which the at least one user device may be reached via one or more of a mobile, wired and wireless local area networks.

In the configuration illustrated in Figure 1, the multiple alert modules (2, 3, 4) are not part of the system (100), such that the disclosed system may be retrofitted in work sites already deployed with alert modules (2, 3, 4) compatible with the on-site module (1). In others (not shown), the multiple alert modules (2, 3, 4) are part of and included in the system (100) and installed together at substantially the same time as the on-site module (1).

Where permanent or mains power is not available, the system (100) includes at least some alert modules (such as 2, 3) which are battery-powered. The alert modules may be IP (internet protocol)-based wireless devices communicating in a mesh configuration. In one example, the mesh configuration allows each device to communicate with all devices within its wireless range, in order to pass information, such as a configuration signal, from the on-site module (1), on to its destined alert module. As mentioned above, the two-way wireless communication may be direct, indirect or a combination of the two. This example of mesh configuration avoids the need for mains-powered repeater devices.

On-site module

Fig. 2 illustrates an example of the on-site module (1). The on-site module (1) includes an enclosure 202. The enclosure 202 houses a button 204 for activating a siren. The button 204 may be a mechanical button (such as a push button) or nonmechanical (such as touch-sensitive button).

In one arrangement, the on-site module 1 is a control panel that runs proprietary software to manage the system (100), including controlling any of the alert modules (2, 3, 4). The on-site module (1) may continuously or regularly monitor the status of the alert modules (2, 3, 4) and perform module checks to register or record the following: presence of a previously registered alert module, signal strength and connectivity of an alert module, power consumption and battery level of an alert module, and SMS functionality of an alert module. Where a signal loss to a previously registered alert module is detected, a notification may appear on the on-site module 1 or may be sent to the least one user device (7, 8). The notification includes a message regarding a detected signal loss, which a work site personnel may resolve in response by installing additional alert modules.

The system (100) is intended to be installed and maintained by the user of the system (100), the benefits of which are twofold. First, it eliminates the need and cost of sending a technician to the work site(s) for commissioning and repairs.

Second, it increases the practical reach of the product into remote and overseas locations.

The on-site module (1) may be operated in one of several ways. In one arrangement, where the on-site module (1) has no wired or mobile communication capability, the on-site module (1) is limited to communication via wireless communication to and control the alert modules (2, 3, 4). In this arrangement, no SMS may be sent. The on-site module (1) may receive an on-site alert signal transmitted by the alert modules (2, 3, 4). The evacuation siren can be activated or subsequently deactivated from the on-site module (1). In another arrangement, where the on-site module (1) has wired communication capability (such as via an Ethernet port) and/or mobile communication capability (such as via a mobile communication interface and a SIM card), the on-site module (1) may be configured for use to send an SMS to the at least one user device (7, 8). Further, the two-way remote communication via the remote module (6) allows the at least one user device (7, 8) to control or monitor the system (100), including any one or more of the on-site module (1) and alert modules (2, 3, 4), such as checking the status of each of the alert modules (2, 3, 4), and activating and deactivating an evacuation siren via an application interface. (See more below)

In one arrangement, the on-site module (1) includes an alert sub-system, which is capable of sending site-specific alerts via SMS. The site-specific alerts can be sent using the mobile communication interface, or via the Ethernet port via a wired network. In one example, when the on-site module (1) receives an on-site alert signal from any alert module (2,3, 4), the on-site alert will be stored by the on-site module (1) and placed into an alert queue for transmission to the at least one user device, such as those identified by a list of predetermined devices or telephone numbers of work site operators or administrators stored on the on-site module (1). The list may specify which entry in the list is capable of receiving or allowed to receive certain types of on-site alerts. The types of on-site alerts can include but are not limited to notification module activation and siren trigger activation. Where the activation is triggered by self-diagnostic procedures by the on site-module or the alert modules themselves, the types of on-site alerts can include but are not limited to fault events such as loss of direct and/or indirect wireless connectivity, a low level of remaining battery power. The site-specific SMS alert may then be sent to those entries matching based on the type of the on-site alert being raised. The user(s) operating the at least one user device (7, 8) having received the site-specific SMS alert is able to respond to the alert via the same method of transmission. Responses may include cancelling the on-site alert signal, acknowledging the on-site alert signal, or activating an evacuation siren.

In some arrangements, the on-site module (1) includes one or more of the following modes and capabilities:

Installation mode: • “Learning in" devices during initial set up phase: Notification modules, Evacuation Triggers and Receivers • Installing additional devices if required at later stage • Evacuation Sirens to Triggers pairing • Custom location naming

Connectivity mode: • Connection to remote module (6) via SMS and/or Ethernet for external monitoring • Synchronize site and system information • Receive software/firmware update • Monitoring verification

Test mode: • Required for regular physical system check by activating all devices in the network. In that mode response can be provided via either mobile application or on the On-site module

Summary/standby mode: • Displays HEALTH CHECK results of all devices in the network by category in a list: Battery level, Network Connectivity, SMS Connectivity • Alerts to next: Scheduled system test, scheduled maintenance call out, Scheduled system off time

Event mode: • Displays location and name of the triggered Notification module and/or Evacuation Siren • Respond to Notification module by sending out acknowledgement to triggered point • Record Incident • Send automated SMS alert to designated recipients Evacuation mode: • Activate and Cancel Evacuation Siren System log mode: • Records the following data with time stamp o Events o Faults o System tests results Dashboard mode: • Users set up for SMS receipt and mobile application access • System password change • System on/off schedule • System testing schedule • Request maintenance call out

Alert modules

Depending on the configuration, the alert modules each include a notification module (2) and/or an evacuation module (3, 4), both of which can be activated via local activation means (such as via a button) and/or remote local means (such as via a signal sent via the two-way remote communication). In the case of a notification module (2), local activation by a site worker may be prompted by the site worker witnessing an on-site injury, which requires medical attention or medical personnel attendance to the relevant work site. Remote activation of a notification module by a site manager may be prompted by a notification to the site manager by means other than the system (100). For example, where the site manager is verbally informed of an on-site injury, the notification module (2) may be activated either via app or an on-site module station depending on what is nearby] In case of an evacuation module (3, 4), local activation by a site worker may be prompted by an onsite hazard, such as a fire or chemical spill, requiring evacuation of the relevant work site or an area of the relevant work site. Remote activation of an evacuation module (3, 4) by a site manager may be prompted after an evaluation and subsequent upgrade of the risk level of an incident initially alerted to the site manager by, for example, local activation of the notification module.

In one example, the evacuation module (3 and 4) includes a siren trigger (3) and a siren receiver (4). The siren trigger (3) upon activation sends an on-site evacuation signal to the on-site module (1) of that work site. The on-site module (1) responsive to the receipt of the on-site evacuation signal causes the remote module (6) to send a corresponding site-specific evacuation alert to the at least one user device (7, 8). In another example, instead of, or in addition to, sending an on-site evacuation signal to the on-site module (1), the siren trigger (3) upon activation sends an on-site evacuation signal to the siren receiver (4) to cause an evacuation siren.

Configuration, control and monitoring

The described system allows a user to use the user devices (7, 8) to configure or control alert modules, or monitor work site status. The user devices (7, 8) may be an on-site workstation wired to the on-site module (1), e.g. being set up in the site office, for local configuration, monitoring and control. Alternatively, the user devices (7, 8) may be an off-site mobile device in remote communication with the onsite module (1) via the remote module (6), such as a cloud-based server, for remote configuration, monitoring and control.

In the example illustrated in Figure 1, the user devices (7, 8) each includes a user application, such as a software or an installed app. The user application includes a graphical user interface for the user to view information received from, or send operational of configuration commands to, the on-site modules (1) and/or the alert modules (2, 3, 4) at the respective the work sites, to the work sites. The user application allows the user devices (7 and 8) to configure settings of each on-site module (1) in the one or more work sites (e.g. 102a and 102b). This may be useful for site managers managing multiple sites. The settings may include siren trigger (3) and siren receiver (4) pairing, user set up, maintenance schedule, service call outs, on/off times of the system (100).

Further, via two-way remote communication and the two-way wireless communication, the user devices (7 and 8) are each configured to control one or more operations of the one or more of the multiple alert modules (2, 3, 4) at each site (102a, 102b). Where an alert module concerned is a notification module (2), the one or more controllable operations may include remote scheduling of sleep cycles. Where an alert module concerned is an evacuation module (3, 4), the one or more controllable operations may include remote activation of an evacuation siren. Alternatively or additionally, the user devices (7 and 8) are each configured to monitor status of the multiple alert modules (2, 3, 4). The status includes battery level and wireless connectivity level.

Notification module

Fig. 3 illustrates an example of the notification module (2). In one arrangement, the notification module (2) is battery-operated. Each may include an IP based communication wireless transmitters that serve as emergency call points strategically positioned around a work site for maximum coverage. In this example, the notification module (2) includes a push button 302, a cancel button 304, one or more visual indicators (e.g. LEDs) 306 and audible indicator (not shown). The notification module (2) is mounted on the aluminium backboards (308) for visibility.

In one arrangement, each notification module (2) is connected to the on-site module via a mesh network. This arrangement allows the remote module (6) to access each individual notification module (2) remotely via the internet using a tunnelling mechanism, such as that used in Amazon Web Services (AWS) cloud server, and therefore each notification module (2) is part of an Internet Of Things (IOT).

In one arrangement, each notification module (2) is powered by any one or more of the following options: a) dual battery, b) power-over-Ethernet powered, and c) mains-powered. Where powered via the POE and/or the mains options, the notification modules are able to additionally connect to a strobe light, a siren and other low voltage devices such as a sensor (e.g. one or more of a motion sensor, a light sensor, and a heat sensor.

In one arrangement, the notification module (2) is configured to ensure that its battery lasts for up to 12 months without recharging. A trade-off between response time of a genuine notification module activation, and battery life has been identified. To address this trade-off, the notification module (2) is configured to be into a sleep mode (i.e. not actively transmitting or receiving), and periodically wake up to check for communications message requests from the on-site module (1). For example, the notification module (2) is configured to operate under two wake-sleep cycles concurrently: a wake-sleep cycle at shorter intervals (e.g. 2-second intervals) to check for receipt of an on-site alert signal, and a wake-sleep cycle at longer intervals (e.g. 1-hour intervals) to perform complete checks of the notification modules (2). All notification modules may be configured by the on-site module (1) to have synchronised sleep-wake cycles to Alternatively or additionally, To address the tradeoff, the on-site module (1) can be configured for a site-specific operation schedule allowing system power on/off times to reduce battery consumption of the notification modules (2). The off time represents permanent sleep cycle. This may be achieved by programming of the mesh network via standard protocols whereby the on-site module (1) sends configuration signal to all alert modules (2, 3, 4) in the mesh

In one arrangement, the notification modules (2) allow two-way wireless communication with the on-site module (1) to provide audio and visual feedback to the operator. The visual indication will be via one or more indicators (e.g. a coloured LED(s) connected to the micro-controller via a general-purpose input/output (GPIO) pin), whilst the audible indication will be via a piezo buzzer connected to the micro controller. This provides the system (100) with deterministic results, and hence provides assurance to anyone in need of using the notification module (2) or evacuation module (3, 4) by means of visual and audible notification.

In one arrangement, once a notification module (2) is activated (e.g. button 302 is pushed), the notification module (2) will awake from its sleep state and wait for the transmission window to open during the synchronised sleep mode of the mesh network. When the transmission window is open for communication the notification module (2) will transmit an on-site alert signal to the on-site module (1). Once the transmission has been received by the on-site module (1), the on-site module (1) will respond with an alert signal acknowledgement to the originating notification module (2). Then notification module (2) may present the following appearance: • When idling, the visual indication on the notification module (2) will present a first appearance (e.g. flashing green briefly at regular intervals). • When activated, the visual indication will present a second appearance (e.g. illuminating red constantly). As mentioned above, the activation causes the on-site module (1) upon receipt of the onsite alert signal to send a site-specific alert to the at least one user device either via the mobile communication interface (e.g. through a SIM card) or wired communication interface (e.g. through Ethernet). • When the on-site alert signal is acknowledged by the on-site module (1) or the at least one user device, the visual indication will present a third appearance (e.g. illuminating yellow constantly). • When deactivated (e.g. a cancel button 304 is pressed), the visual indication will present a fourth appearance before returning to the first appearance (e.g. illuminating green for 3 seconds, then return to idling). • If communications to the on-site module (1) is lost or an error is detected, the visual indication will present a fifth appearance (e.g. flashing red and yellow alternatively).

In one arrangement, the notification modules (2) each have a line-of-sight range of about 300-400 metres. Degradation of signal is expected in heavily obstructed areas or areas where signal is required to pass through concrete and other building materials. The operating conditions of the enclosure of each notification module include IP53 rating requirements.

Evacuation module: siren trigger and siren receiver

The evacuation module (3, 4) includes a siren trigger (3) and a siren receiver (4). In the example illustrated in Fig. 4, the siren trigger (3) includes a button (402) for activating the siren. When the siren trigger (3) is activated, it may undertake one or both of two operations. The siren trigger (3) upon activation may send an on-site evacuation signal to the siren receiver (4) to cause an evacuation siren. Each siren receiver (4) is associated with an evacuation siren. The evacuation siren can include an audible siren (e.g. a loud and repeating tone), and/or a visual indication (e.g. flashing bright light). Alternatively or additionally, the siren trigger (3) upon activation sends an on-site evacuation signal to the on-site module (1), which upon receipt of the on-site evacuation signal causes the remote module (6) to send a site-specific evacuation alert to the at least one user device (7, 8) responsive to the on-site evacuation signal received by the on-site module (1).

In one arrangement, the siren triggers (3) are battery-operated. Each may include an IP based communication wireless transmitters that serve as site evacuation triggers. Fig. 4 illustrates an example of a siren trigger (3). In this example, the siren trigger (3) includes a push button 402, a cancel button 404, and one or more visual indicators (e.g. LEDs) 406. The siren trigger (3) is mounted on the aluminium backboards (408) for visibility.

Each trigger may be configured to activate multiple sirens (via the corresponding siren receivers (4)) simultaneously. Conversely, multiple triggers can also be used to activate same siren (via the corresponding siren receiver (4)). Siren triggers (3) and sirens receivers (4) are connected in the same manner as the notification modules (2), and will initiate a local area network connection to the nosite module (1). Profile parameters will also be transmitted to the Siren triggers (3) and sirens receivers (4) as per the notification modules (2).

In one arrangement, the activation of a siren trigger (3) triggers an on-site evacuation signal sent to the on-site module (1). The on-site module (1) will respond to the siren trigger (3) with an acknowledgement in the same manner as it does in response to an on-site alert signal. When an on-site evacuation signal has been received by the on-site module (1), the on-site module (1) is able to perform all of the functions and alerts similar to those in response to an on-site alert signal. The on-site module (1) will also communicate with the siren receiver (4) to turn on the siren. The siren can be turned on and off periodically in patterns as defined by the sirens profile parameters. Any number of installed siren receivers (4) can activate their siren in response to instructions by the on-site module (1) to do so.

In one arrangement, all installed siren receivers (4) are activated at the same time, to effect a site-wide evacuation. In another arrangement, only some of the installed siren receivers (4) are activated at the same time, to effect a partial site evacuation. The on-site module (1) is configured to reset and turn off the siren via the corresponding the siren receivers (4). There can be any number of siren receivers (4) and any number of siren triggers (3) installed.

The siren triggers (3) may be operated in a stand-alone mode, where a connection is established between any number and combination of siren triggers (3) and sirens receiver (4). Alternatively or additionally, the siren triggers (3) may be operated to communicate with the at least one user device (7, 8) via on-site module (1).

Then siren triggers (3) may present the following appearance: • When idling, the visual indication (406), such as LED, on the siren trigger (3) will present a first appearance (e.g. flashing green briefly at regular intervals). • When the EVACUATE button (402) is pressed, the notification module indicators will present a second appearance (such as flashing red until cancelled). Further, one or more SMS messages may be sent to the at least one user devices either via the mobile communication interface (e.g. through a SIM card) or wired communication interface (e.g. through Ethernet) if used in conjunction with the on-site module (1). • When deactivated (e.g. a cancel button 404 is pressed), the visual indication will present a third appearance before returning to the first appearance (e.g. illuminating green for 3 seconds, then return to idling). • If communications to the siren receiver (4) or to the on-site module (1) is lost or an error is detected, the visual indication will present a fourth appearance (e.g. flashing red and yellow alternatively).

Siren receiver

Fig. 5 illustrates an example of a siren receiver (4). The siren receiver (4) is mains-powered. It is connected to an evacuation siren and designed to be compatible and can trigger most sirens on the market. The siren receivers (4) operate within the same mesh network as the notification modules (2) and use the mesh network created by the notification modules (2) to benefit from the extended range. Where only the evacuation sirens are used on-site, the siren receiver (4) and/or the siren triggers (3) are configured to create their own mesh network between themselves.

In one arrangement, a siren receiver is mains-powered and therefore does not go to sleep. Multiple siren receivers (4) on the same work site operate in synchronisation with each other. In one example, when a siren trigger (3) is activated, all the sirens may be configured to be set off simultaneously, regardless of how far away the furthest siren is. The at least one user device (7, 8) may be configured to control, via the on-site module (1), the siren receivers (4) remotely using the application interface on the at least one user device (7, 8). In one arrangement, each siren receiver (4) module is configured to enable two outputs for controlling the evacuation siren: a 230V-240V siren and a 12V 2A siren.

Mesh network

The mesh communications network has the advantage of being self-healing. In the event of a signal loss via one route, neighbouring nodes (e.g. alert modules (2, 3, 4)) can take over responsibility for message passing and reroute the message. This makes the technology suitable for a construction site environment.

In the event that the healing characteristic does not resolve a communications problem, the system (100) permits additional notification modules (2) to be added to an installation at a later time, requiring little overhead in terms of reconfiguration or infrastructure. This means that in a changing and hostile environment, if communications reliability is impacted, a end-customer can address the problem by the added installation.

Each notification module (2) is a member of a local area wireless mesh network operating in the 900MHz ISM band. Using the mesh network topology allows the system to operate without the need for repeaters. If for whatever reason a notification module (2) is out of range then further notification module (2) or other types of alert modules can be inserted into the network in appropriate locations until all nodes can communicate back to the on-site module (1).

The primary network mesh topology used is DigiMesh, which is an optimised mesh network protocol providing good resilience, reliability, and redundancy. Each notification module (2) will use the synchronised sleeping router configuration as defined by the DigiMesh protocol.

Once a notification module (2) is powered on it will immediately attempt to connect to the mesh network. If a connection cannot be successfully completed then the notification module (2) will enter back into its sleep state for a default period of time as specified by default parameters.

Once a notification module (2) is connected to the local mesh network, a profile will be requested from the on-site module (1) for this particular notification module (2) which will be uniquely identified. The profile will contain various parameters including power cycle sleep times used for synchronising the mesh network. The power cycle sleep times will determine how frequently the network awakes to listen and synchronise once again.

Based on the profile information received, a notification module (2) will enter its sleep state. All local mesh network nodes will be in the sleep state at the same time with all nodes in the network having identical sleep parameters as defined by the received profile in order to preserve the battery and to ensure reliable communication.

As all notification modules (2) are synchronised, then they will all awake at the same time in order to re-synchronise, route traffic from other notification modules (2) or nodes, or communicate with the on-site module (1) either via other notification modules (2) or directly, whichever is more direct.

When a notification module (2) awakes from its sleep state, it will resynchronise with all other nodes on the mesh network. During this awake time the notification module (2) will remain awake for a period of time defined by its received profile parameters, during which time it will listen for commands from the on-site module (1). If the on-site module (1) has commands for a particular notification module (2) then the commands will be sent by the on-site module (1) to the notification module (2) and the notification module (2) will perform its instructed duties.

Operating the system in this manner can avoid repeaters whilst using battery power and preserving the battery life.

Mesh Synchronisation Deployment

In one arrangement, during initial deployment of the devices (e.g. on-site module, alert modules, etc.) of the system (100), a special Deployment Mode is initiated by a certain button pressed on each device. This deployment mode causes the device to wake up, and stay awake until it receives a ‘Time Sync’ packet from the onsite module (1), or a timeout occurs, which causes the device to return to normal operation mode. The Time Sync packet contains the local time known to the on-site module (1), plus the period at which the device should automatically wake from power saving sleep mode, plus other parameters.

Normal Operation

In one arrangement, periodically (defined by the software in the on-site module (1)) a ‘Time Sync’ packet is transmitted by the on-site module (1). This packet contains the local time, as known by the on-site module (1), as well as other synchronisation data.

Each device within range will wake according to the time period defined in the last received sync packet, and will receive this new synchronisation message.

Each device will re-transmit this sync packet so that other devices within range will also receive the Time Sync Packet.

In Fig. 6, the Time Sync packet received by Node C from the on-site module (1) (labelled the Base Station) is also received by Node D. Nodes C & D can reset their clocks & parameters from this Time Sync packet. Nodes C & D will re-transmit this packet. Node B will receive this re-transmitted Time Sync packet, and will process it before re-transmitting. Node A will finally receive a Time Sync packet from Node B. Each device which receives a Time Sync packet acknowledges it to the sender. This acknowledgment is used by the individual devices to build an internal ‘Health Status’ table, which can be used by the on-site module (1).

When a Time Sync packet is transmitted, the sending device can include requests as part of this packet for any receiving devices to action. This may include performing certain local actions such as turning a Light or Audio device on or off, or simply returning data during the acknowledgment.

Missed Synchronisation

In one arrangement, in the event that a device has woken 6 times and not received a sync packet, the device will remain awake for two whole sync periods to ensure that a sync packet is received (assuming the failure is due to clock synchronisation).

During this time, the operator will be alerted by a change of colour on the device indicator light.

The on-site module (1) will also be aware of this condition as it has not heard from the device recently, and will indicate an error condition on the screen.

While awake, the device will transmit ‘Sync Request’ packets periodically to solicit a response from any listening devices within range.

Computer cloud

In one arrangement, the remote module (6) is implemented as a cloud solution using Amazon Web Services (AWS). AWS IoT is a managed cloud platform that lets connected devices easily and securely interact with cloud applications and other devices. AWS IoT provides secure, bi-directional communication between Internet-connected devices such as Call Points and the AWS cloud. This enables the remote module (6) to collect telemetry data from multiple devices and store and analyze the data. Internet connectivity is achieved for the Nurse Call System either via a SIM card installed in the On-site module (1) or network connection via Ethernet cable.

Monitoring server

In one arrangement, the remote module (6) is capable of total external control and monitoring of all systems (100) in different work sites that are connected via Internet to AWS anywhere in the world.

The remote module (6) provides an html-based dashboard for monitoring the status and health of all devices installed in the field.

The on-site module (1) will contain a number of statistics and historical data events that can be retrieved by the remote module (6). This data can be presented via html to an operator or administrator via html.

The dashboard will allow users to view reports, logs, errors, and statistics via html. The dashboard is able to configure notification modules (2), siren triggers (3), and siren receivers (4), and on-site modules (1) using html forms. The configuration data will be stored on the remote module (6) and sent the on-site modules (1) at multiple work sites.

The remote-module (6) will periodically retrieve status, logs, historical events, and configuration data from each system (100) installed by means of communicating with the corresponding on-site module (1).

Proprietary software allows for user friendly interface to AWS collected data.

All data accumulated and stored based on the serial number of each device. Functionality

Site specific system information recording of all devices via serial number - External programming and system configuration - Historical statistical reporting - Monitoring information

System power on/off times schedule System Health Check Events log Incident reporting Faults recording

System testing results and schedule tests alerts Calendar reminders Warranty information - Client initiated emergency technician call outs - Scheduled maintenance call outs - External Software/firmware upgrades

User devices (such as mobile devices)

Utilizing Amazon Web Services (AWS) and through an application interface (such as proprietary mobile app) the users are able to control notification modules (2) and evacuation sirens (e.g. via siren triggers 3 and/or siren receivers (4)) on site from their phones or tablets.

The mobile app communicates with the remote module (6) and is able to control certain features and receive status information from the system (100) by communicating with it via the remote module (6). The remote module (6) receives events, status information, configuration parameters, historical logs, etc. from the onsite modules (1). The remote module (6) stores this information for use by the mobile app.

Communication between the mobile app and the remote module (6) is via the internet using the TCP/IP protocol.

Once an alert is triggered, that alert will be forwarded to the on-site module (1) as described above and then if an app is registered for use with that particular system (100), the app will receive a site-specific alert and the user can respond with one of several options including but not limited to reset event, cancel alert, etc. The app can also initiate an alert and remote activation of the evacuation siren via the remote module (6).

Users will install the app that they download from an app store on their mobile devices. When they log in they will receive site specific information that is synchronized to the on-site module (1) and receives information such as: - Work site Name - Number and location of notification modules (2), siren triggers (3) and siren receivers (4) - Contact details of SMS recipients - Devices Health Status - Scheduled system test information

Functionality

The mobile app allows for the following: - Respond to the event - Incident report generation

Now that arrangements of the present disclosure are described, it should be apparent to the skilled person in the art that the described arrangements have at least one or more of the following advantages or easily deployable improvements: • device-traceability in the network in IP-based configuration. • cable-less or wireless installation for ease end-customer. • control over the notification and evacuation modules • self-learning notification modules that end-users can install • practically unlimited notification module connections to on-site module • integrated on-site module SMS warning system via SIM or/and Ethernet with multiple recipients

• flexible powering options for notification modules: battery, main, POE • optional siren/strobe lights at each notification module with main powered devices • visual and audio feedback at notification modules with two way signal transmission to on-site module • automated system Heath Checks including battery status, signal strengths, SMS connectivity at on-site module and mobile app • touch screen operated on-site module • an integrated site specific smart phone application with unlimited users • programmable notification module names and placement locations from on-site module or mobile app • reporting software at on-site module with incident logging • on-site module testing mode with report generation • programmable system test schedule • programmable system on/off time schedule • automated request for maintenance call outs, can be set by the end user • electronic event log • wireless integrated site evacuation system with multiple siren/trigger combinations • controlled from on-site module or mobile app • full external system monitoring by remote module in real time with complex reporting and alert options • external programming by remote module via Cloud Technology

It will be understood that the invention disclosed and defined in this specification extends to all alternative combinations of two or more of the individual features mentioned or evident from the text or drawings. For example, any one or more the calibration steps can be used separately or in conjunction. All of these different combinations constitute various alternatives of the present disclosure.

Claims (5)

1. Claims

   1. An alert system for use with a work site, the alert system including: multiple alert modules for deployment across the work site, the multiple alert modules including an evacuation module; an on-site module for positioning at the work site, the on-site module configured for two-way direct or indirect wireless communication with the multiple alert modules; a remote module in two-way remote communication with the on-site module and at least one user device; and wherein the evacuation module is configured to be remotely controllable by the user device, via the on-site module, to remotely activate an evacuation siren.
2. 2. The alert system of claim 1, wherein the multiple alert modules include a notification module, and wherein the notification module is configured to be remotely controllable by the user device, via the on-site module, to remotely schedule sleep cycles of the notification module.
3. 3. An alert system for use with a work site, the alert system including: multiple alert modules for deployment across the work site, the multiple alert modules including a notification module; an on-site module for positioning at the work site, the on-site module configured for two-way direct or indirect wireless communication with the multiple alert modules; a remote module in two-way remote communication with the on-site module and at least one user device; and wherein the notification module is configured to be remotely controllable by the user device, via the on-site module, to remotely schedule sleep cycles of the notification module.
4. 4. The alert system of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the on-site module is configured to: receive an on-site alert signal generated by an alert module upon its activation; and responsive to receiving the on-site alert signal, send a site-specific alert to the at least one user device.
5. 5. The alert system of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: the on-site module is configured for two-way indirect wireless communication with at least one of the multiple alert modules via another of the multiple alert modules.