EP2333802B1 - Sensor unit and building monitoring system with such sensor units - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a sensor unit with a non-contact identity or position detection provided, connected in an electrically controllable sensor circuit sensor. It further relates to a monitoring system for buildings, in particular for a building automation and / or control with such sensor units and the use of such a sensor unit.

In a sensor unit of the type mentioned for non-contact identity or position detection, the sensor arranged in the sensor module usually interacts contactlessly with an associated control element which, depending on its respective position, relates to the actual sensor and / or depending on the type of identity code Signals specifically associated, electrically detectable reactions of the sensor causes. In particular, such a sensor unit may be provided, for example, for monitoring the closed position of a window or a door in the associated window / door frame, with a magnet usually being arranged as the control element on the movable window sash. The sensor, which can be designed, for example, as a reed contact, as a Hall sensor or as an AMR / GMR sensor, responds directly to the magnetic field (s) at its installation location, so that a direct distinction can be made as to whether the controlling magnetic element is direct located near the sensor or not.

If in such systems only to determine whether the window or the door is open or closed, the sensor module is usually mounted directly on or in the window frame, wherein the magnetic element provided as a control element is arranged on the movable window sash. In contrast, if at the same time a monitoring of the locking state of the window fitting is to take place, the sensor unit is arranged on the locking fitting, while, for example, a drive rod carries a control magnet. Such a system is for example from the DE 199 14 568 C2 known.

In the event that the sensor is designed as a magnetically controllable sensor, a reed contact or a Hall sensor is usually provided as a magnetic sensor in such a sensor unit, wherein the magnetic sensor with a connection cable firmly connected and the cable connection point is usually potted. The magnetic sensor is usually connected via the corresponding connection cable with an evaluation unit, in which the detection of the sensor signals is made. In one embodiment of the magnetic sensor as reed contact while an associated switch is closed depending on whether the associated control magnet is in spatial proximity of the sensor or not. Consequently, as a result of a parallel connection of this switch to a test resistor, depending on whether the associated control magnet is in the immediate vicinity of the sensor or not, the detectable total resistance in the associated electrically controllable sensor circuit changes. By means of a suitable measurement and evaluation of the resistance of the sensor circuit, it is thus possible to detect and distinguish between two states in the evaluation unit, namely either "reed switch closed" (corresponds to control magnet in the vicinity, ie window or door closed) or "reed switch opened "(corresponds to control magnet not nearby, so for example window or door open).

By a suitable interconnection and a comparison with stored in the central evaluation thresholds for the electrical parameters in the sensor circuit so that the targeted and centralized monitoring of the window and / or door elements or the like in a building monitoring system is possible. For a reliable interaction between the central evaluation unit on the one hand and the connected sensor units on the other hand is but required that the sensor circuit of the respective sensor unit is adapted in terms of its configuration to the corresponding basic design of the evaluation unit, in particular their stored thresholds for state discrimination. This is usually accounted for by the fact that the potentially large number of sensor units is designed to be uniform and adapted to the evaluation unit in terms of their configuration of the electrical properties, the corresponding sensor units being suitably produced already during manufacture with regard to the predetermined criteria and threshold values. However, this presupposes that specifically adapted sensor units are produced for each predetermined evaluation unit, wherein a free interchangeability between sensor units and a subsequent conversion to other sensor units while maintaining the central evaluation unit is not necessarily possible. The flexibility in the selection and use of the sensor units in combination with the respective evaluation is thus limited.

A sensor unit according to the preamble of claim 1 is known from DE202005002797 U1 known.

The invention is therefore based on the object to provide a sensor unit of the type mentioned above, for the particularly flexible and thus resource-saving way integration into a variety of diverse overall systems is possible.

This object is achieved by the features of claim 1.

The sensor may be magnetic field controlled, so for example as a reed contact, Hall sensor, AMR / GMR sensor or the like, or be carried out on RFID basis.

The invention is based on the consideration that for a particularly resource-saving provision of the sensor units, even under variable operating conditions, So in particular for use in combination with different evaluation units, although the basic design of the sensor unit should be made for particularly large quantities. However, in order to allow individual adaptation to the requirements of the respective evaluation unit and thus a particularly high degree of flexibility with regard to possible combinations of sensor unit on the one hand and evaluation unit on the other hand, especially with possibly varying requirements with regard to the planned connection to the evaluation units, the sensor unit, starting from a largely independent body, in a particularly simple manner in terms of their essential for connection to the central evaluation unit properties, ie in particular their electrical parameters and / or their communication-side connection, be configurable. This is achieved by providing a configuration module for variably setting the system parameters of the sensor unit.

The configuration module can be arranged in the manner of an integrated embodiment in the actual sensor housing, wherein the configuration of the system parameters can be done for example via the external setting of switching or magnetic elements or other control devices on or in the configuration module. The configuration or system adaptation is done in this case subsequently by the appropriate settings and manipulation of the configuration module. In order to enable in a particularly simple manner the production of uniform components in large numbers, which saves resources, the sensor is advantageously arranged in a sensor module, wherein the configuration module is configured as a separate module connectable to the sensor module. In this advantageous development, the consistent division of the sensor unit into several subunits or modules is thus provided on the production side, which can be produced independently of each other and in the manner of self-contained elements. The division is provided in such a way that the essential basic elements of the sensor module in the manner of a large-scale production type independently and even in large quantities be provided unchanged in the manner of a separate sensor module, which is to be connected to the final configuration of the electrical and / or communication-side properties of the sensor circuit of this unitary sensor module suitably connected to the configuration module. It is also conceivable a solution with a body, which is also provided with the cable outlet. At this base body, which is provided as a receptacle for the sensor element, an adjustment option for configuration purposes for the resistors is provided as well as the possibility for the exchange of components.

The configuration module is designed such that the electrical properties of the sensor circuit, in particular resistors and the like, are set via the configuration module by means of suitable components contained therein. The actual sensor unit, that is to say the combination of sensor module and configuration module, thereby arises through the joining of these two modules, whereby this can be done, for example, directly at the place of use and thus particularly in line with requirements. Later conversions of the sensor units, for example in the form of adaptation to an evaluation unit to be newly installed, can be carried out via a reconfiguration by replacing the configuration module.
A particularly simple design and also a subsequent reliable evaluation of the sensor unit can be achieved by the desired state discrimination is carried out by reading resistance values in the sensor circuit. In order to take this into account, the configuration module in an advantageous embodiment of the invention has a number of resistance elements for establishing electrical resistance values in the sensor circuit.
In an additional or alternative advantageous embodiment, provision may be made for a targeted and individualized connection and adaptation of the sensor unit to the central evaluation unit via the communication-side coupling. In this case, the configuration module is advantageously in the manner of a Communication interface configured as a communication module for connecting the sensor unit to the communication system or network of the central evaluation unit. In the case of a wired communication network, the configuration module can be designed, for example, as a parameterizable interface for setting the respective bus protocol, the system logic of the evaluation unit or the like. Alternatively or additionally, in the case of a wireless coupling of the sensor unit to the central evaluation unit, the configuration module can be designed as an RF or radio module or the like. The proposed system adaptation using the configuration module is carried out in particular by the appropriate selection of the respective radio and transmission parameters for the configuration module.

Advantageously, the sensor unit for targeted and adapted introduction and integration of window or door elements, in particular in the frame or Rahmenfalze, provided in corresponding receiving chambers. In order to allow a particularly simple and positionally accurate mounting of the sensor units in the intended holding chamber, the sensor module advantageously has, together with the configuration module connected to it, a function housing adapted in its external dimensions to a predetermined contour of the associated receiving chamber. In order for the outer shape of the resulting outer housing of the sensor unit is matched with assembled sensor and configuration module to the contour and design of the respective receiving chamber. In order to allow a particularly high operational safety of the sensor unit and also a particularly long life of the components used, in a further advantageous embodiment, the functional housing is designed in the manner of an encapsulated design, so that the components arranged therein of the sensor module and the configuration module suitable and sealing are enclosed. For this purpose, advantageously, the abutting edge, which results from the assembly of the sensor module and the configuration module, is provided with an associated seal, preferably against the entry of moisture.

In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the sensor unit of the type mentioned in a monitoring system for buildings, for example, to monitor the closed state of windows and / or doors used. In addition to the actual monitoring functions, the monitoring system can also have alarm functions or the like and, for example, be part of an air conditioning system, a system for access control for the respective building and / or an alarm system. Advantageously, the monitoring system comprises a central evaluation unit, to which a plurality of sensor units of the type mentioned is connected.

The advantages achieved by the invention are, in particular, that by using the configuration module, an adaptation of the system parameters to the specifications of the central evaluation unit particularly flexible and in particular also subsequently, for example, in a system change or in the manner of retrofitting, can be made. As a result, the actual sensor with the components therein can be manufactured in a uniform manner, regardless of type of construction and usage, whereby individualization and adaptation to specific requirements of the evaluation unit can be carried out via the configuration module on the other hand. Thus, the provision of suitable sensor units is made possible by simple means even with varying requirements by the appropriate evaluation.

FIG. 1

eine Sensoreinheit als Teil eines Überwachungssystems für ein Gebäude, und

FIG. 2 bis 6

jeweils ein Schaltschema für ein Sensormodul der Sensoreinheit gemäß FIG. 1.

An embodiment of the invention will be explained in more detail with reference to a drawing. Show:

FIG. 1

a sensor unit as part of a monitoring system for a building, and

FIG. 2 to 6

in each case a circuit diagram for a sensor module of the sensor unit according to FIG. 1.

Identical parts are provided with the same reference numerals in all figures.

The sensor unit 1 according to FIG. 1 is provided within a building monitoring system for non-contact identity or position detection and, in particular, for determining the closed state of a door or window. For this purpose, the sensor unit 1 comprises a sensor module 2, which cooperates with an external control, not shown. Depending on whether the control is in spatial proximity to the sensor module 2 or not, this changes its measurable electrical properties, so that it can be determined via a suitable remote selection, whether the control is in the vicinity of the sensor module 2 or not. In this case, the sensor module 2 can be designed on the basis of RFID, wherein the control element emits corresponding signals in the manner of a signature, wherein the position recognition is possible on the basis of the comparatively low transmission range values of such systems. In the embodiment, however, a magnet-controlled switch, in particular a so-called reed contact, is arranged in the sensor module 2 as the actual sensor, which is switched by an external magnet as a control. The reed contact closes in consequence of the magnetic field acting on the magnet, so that it can be concluded on the basis of the circuit state of the reed contact, whether the control magnet is in its environment or not.

For remote reading, the reed contact of the sensor module 2 is connected in an electrically controllable sensor circuit 3. For the intended use in the embodiment for detecting the closing state of a door or window, the sensor module 2, the sensor circuit 3 is connected via an inaccessible molded connection 4 to a multi-wire connection cable 6 and connected via this with the central evaluation of the building monitoring system, in a frame profile 8 of the respective window or door integrated. The frame profile 8 has for recording and positioning of the sensor module 2, a suitable receiving opening 10, in which the sensor module 2 can be introduced. Corresponding to the frame profile 8 associated with the window or door leaf at one of the receiving opening 10 suitably appropriate location of the control magnet for the reed contact is mounted so that when the window is closed or door closed the control magnet is in the immediate vicinity of the sensor module 2. When the door or window is open, this is not the case, so that can be closed on the electrical properties of the sensor module 2 suitable for the opening state of the window or the door. Similarly, the combination of sensor module 2 and control magnet can also be arranged such that the locking state of the window or the door, for example via the corresponding locking pin, can be monitored.

The design of the sensor unit 1 specifically takes into account the fact that different types or designs can be used in comparatively complex surveillance systems for buildings as a central evaluation unit, which have different requirements with regard to the signals to be exchanged with the sensor units 1, such as the individual signal values , Voltage or resistance levels / communication or bus protocols or the like. This actually requires that the sensor unit 1 should already be adapted during its manufacture to the specific specifications of the respective evaluation unit. In order nevertheless to be able to ensure a comparatively high degree of flexibility of the sensor unit 1 in the adaptation to the respective evaluation unit with production costs kept at a particularly low level, the sensor unit 1 is designed as a subsequently configurable unit, ie after the actual production. This is achieved by assigning the sensor module 2 a configuration module 12 provided for adapting the system parameters to the central evaluation unit.

The configuration module 12 can in turn be designed as a subsequently adjustable element, for example via control switches or the like, and fixed be connected to the sensor module 2. In the exemplary embodiment, however, the sensor unit 1 comprises, in addition to the sensor module 2, which contains the actual sensor connected to the electrically controllable sensor circuit 3, a separate configuration module 12 which can be connected to the sensor module 2 and which contains a number of parameters for setting the electrical parameters of the sensor circuit 3 provided components is arranged. In particular, the configuration module 12 comprises a number of resistance elements, via which the electrical resistances a number of partial branches of the sensor circuit 3 can be determined.

The configuration module 12 can be connectable to the sensor module 2 in various ways. For example, as shown in FIG. 1 indicated, a plug connection may be provided; but there are also other possible connections. The connector is preferably designed with regard to common protection regulations suitable, especially as protected against environmental influences compound.

In the exemplary embodiment, the sensor module 2 and the configuration module 12 are also dimensioned and configured in their outer dimensions in such a way that, after joining these modules, a functional housing 14 adapted in its outer dimensions to a predetermined contour results. In particular, this functional housing 14 is preferably designed such that it is adapted to a corresponding inner contour of the frame profile 8, so that via the introduction of the sensor unit 1 in the respective inner contour an automatic correct positioning and centering of the sensor unit 1 takes place.

In the embodiment of FIG. 1, essentially a cylindrical functional housing 14 is shown, in which the configuration module 12 is connected in the manner of an attached cap flush with the lateral surface of the underlying cylinder. Of course, however, other suitable configurations and dimensions of sensor module 2 on the one hand and configuration module 12 may be provided on the other hand to form a functional housing 14 of the respective predetermined type. The functional housing 14 is also configured in such a way that the components contained in the sensor module 2 and in the configuration module 12 are encapsulated and thus arranged in an operationally protected manner. For this purpose, in particular the butt joint 15 of the housing parts formed during assembly of the sensor module 2 on the one hand and the configuration module 12 on the other hand can be designed sealed / sealed.

In addition, in order to preclude subsequent manipulation of the sensor unit 1 by unauthorized replacement of the configuration module 12, the mechanical connection of the sensor module 2 and configuration module 12 can be self-locking, for example snapping or latching, so that nondestructive opening after assembly is no longer possible or only with the aid of assistance a special tool is possible.

In the FIG. 2 to 6 For example, some variants of possible electrical interconnections in the sensor module 2 and in the configuration module 12 are shown. In this case, a basic structure of the sensor unit 1 may be provided, as he also in the view in FIG. 1, and wherein the sensor module 2 is respectively connected directly to the connection cable 6 and the configuration module 12 in turn is brought into contact with the sensor module 2. Alternatively, however, it may also be provided in a variant that the sensor module 2 is to be connected to the connection cable 6 with electrical interposition of the configuration module 12. In all the illustrated embodiments, a magnetically controllable reed contact is provided as the sensor 16, which reacts in the manner of a switch to a control magnet in its environment. For external field monitoring while another magnetically controllable reed contact 17 is additionally provided in the embodiment; other configurations are conceivable.

In the embodiment according to FIG. 2 If the sensor 16 is arranged in the sensor module 2, and in the configuration module 12 are suitable bridging loops 18, 20, with which the line terminals of the sensor 16 can be connected to the corresponding line terminals of the connecting cable 6 to form the electrically controllable sensor circuit 3. In addition, a so-called sabotage circuit 22 is also provided in the manner of a safety circuit in which a closed conductor loop is produced between the further conductors of the connection cable 6 via the configuration module 12. The sabotage circuit 22 can thus be used to easily check whether, in the manner of an unauthorized manipulation, the sensor unit 1 as a whole or also the configuration module 12 has been disconnected from its terminals.

In the configuration module 12, a number of electrical resistors 24 are still located, which determine the electrical properties of the sensor circuit 3 when the configuration module 12 is mounted. In order to distinguish the switching states "closed" and "open" of the sensor 16, correspondingly different resistance values can be read out in the sensor circuit. By replacing the configuration module 12 with otherwise constant sensor module 2 thus the electrical properties of the sensor circuit 3 can be changed and thus adapted to different specifications of the evaluation. Of course, by appropriate specification or modification of the individual resistors 24 in the configuration module 12 after FIG. 2 even an individual adaptation of the actual electrical parameters of the sensor circuit 3 to any specifications possible.

In the embodiment according to FIG. 3 is essentially a similar electrical interconnection of the sensor circuit 3 in comparison to the embodiment according to FIG. 2 provided, but here the configuration module 12 is connected in the manner of an intermediate piece between the sensor module 2 and the connecting cable 6.

In the embodiment according to FIG. 4, FIG. 5 the adaptation of the system parameters of the sensor 16 to the specifications of the central evaluation unit is provided by means of a configurable communication-side coupling. In this case, in these exemplary embodiments, the configuration module 12 is designed in the manner of a communication interface as a communication module for connecting the sensor module 2 to the communication system or network of the central evaluation unit. In the embodiment according to FIG. 4, FIG. 5 If this network is designed wired, and the configuration module 12 is configured as a bus interface and thus as a parameterizable interface for setting the respective bus protocol. In FIG. 4 is shown that variant in which the sensor module 2 is connected directly to the connection cable, whereas in the variant acc. FIG. 5 the sensor module 2 is connected to the connection cable 6 with electrical interposition of the configuration module 12.

In this basically analogous construction is gem. FIG. 6 the configuration module 12 designed for the wireless communication-side connection of the sensor module 2 to the communication network of the central evaluation unit. In this case, the configuration module 12 is designed as an RF or functional module in this embodiment.

Claims (8)

1. Sensor unit (1) comprising an electrically controllable sensor circuit (3), a configuration module (12) and a sensor (16) that is intended for contactlessly verifying identity or position, is connected into the electrically controllable sensor circuit (3) and is connected to the configuration module (12) in order to adjust the system parameters of said sensor to the requirements of a central evaluation unit, characterised in that a number of components which are provided for adjusting the electrical parameters of the sensor circuit (3) are arranged in the configuration module (12).
2. Sensor unit (1) according to claim 1, the sensor (16) of which is arranged in a sensor module (2), wherein the configuration module (12) is designed as a separate module which can be connected to the sensor module (2).
3. Sensor unit (1) according to claim 1, the configuration module (12) of which has a number of resistor elements in order to determine electrical resistance values in the sensor circuit (3).
4. Sensor unit (1) according to any of claims 1 to 3, the configuration module (12) of which is designed as a communication module for connecting to the central evaluation unit on the communication side.
5. Sensor unit (1) according to any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the sensor module (2), together with the configuration module (12) connected thereto, has a functional housing (14), the external dimensions of which are adapted to a prescribed contour.
6. Sensor unit (1) according to claim 5, wherein the functional housing (14) encloses in an encapsulating manner the components of the sensor module (2) and of the configuration module (12) which are arranged therein.
7. Monitoring system for buildings comprising a central evaluation unit, to which a number of sensor units (1) according to any of claims 1 to 6 is connected.
8. Use of a sensor unit (1) according to any of claims 1 to 6 in a building monitoring system.

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