GB2557246A

GB2557246A - Hazard detector test verification and logging system

Info

Publication number: GB2557246A
Application number: GB1620436.4A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Welton Adam
Original assignee: LAN Control Systems Ltd
Current assignee: LAN Control Systems Ltd
Priority date: 2016-12-01
Filing date: 2016-12-01
Publication date: 2018-06-20
Also published as: GB201620436D0

Abstract

A system comprising an apparatus for testing hazard detectors such as fire alarms, smoke alarms and Carbon Monoxide alarms. The hazard detector 6 to be tested comprises a visual indicator 8, such as a light source and an identification tag 12, such as an RFID tag or QR code (RTM). The testing apparatus 10 comprises an enclosure 14 which, when is use, is placed over the hazard detector 6 and contains means to generate a test environment within said enclosure, such as smoke or heat. The testing apparatus 10 further comprises a sensor 16 to detect the visual output 8 from the hazard alarm and a communication device which receives the alarms identification data and outputs a test result signal, possibly to a portable communication device of the user.

Description

(54) Title of the Invention: Hazard detector test verification and logging system Abstract Title: Hazard detection test verification and logging system (57) A system comprising an apparatus for testing hazard detectors such as fire alarms, smoke alarms and Carbon Monoxide alarms. The hazard detector 6 to be tested comprises a visual indicator 8, such as a light source and an identification tag 12, such as an RFID tag or QR code ^(RTM). The testing apparatus 10 comprises an enclosure 14 which, when is use, is placed over the hazard detector 6 and contains means to generate a test environment within said enclosure, such as smoke or heat. The testing apparatus 10 further comprises a sensor 16 to detect the visual output 8 from the hazard alarm and a communication device which receives the alarm’s identification data and outputs a test result signal, possibly to a portable communication device of the user.

At least one drawing originally filed was informal and the print reproduced here is taken from a later filed formal copy.

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Intellectual

Property

Office

Application No. GB1620436.4

RTM

Date : 11 January 2017

The following terms are registered trade marks and should be read as such wherever they occur in this document:

“QR code” - page 10 of the description

Intellectual Property Office is an operating name of the Patent Office www.gov.uk/ipo

TITLE OF THE INVENTION

Hazard Detector Test Verification and Logging System

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a system for verification and logging the action of hazard detector testing, such as smoke/heat/carbon monoxide fire detectors.

Smoke/heat/carbon monoxide fire detectors (herein referred to as ‘hazard detectors’ for brevity) are well known safety devices, which are typically installed at suitable locations within buildings so as to trigger an alarm upon occurrence of a fire. The alarm typically alerts individuals within the building and may also be communicated by way of a suitable signal to a monitoring system, i.e. to one or more individual or organisation responsible for the safety of the building.

Detectors may be wired into the building or else may be wireless (e.g. relying solely on an on-board battery for powering the device).

There is an ongoing need to ensure that the operation of detectors remains fit for purpose. This typically requires testing the activation of detectors at periodic intervals according to a predetermined schedule in order to adhere to local regulations. Detectors are typically located on ceilings and so it is known to provide detector testing apparatus on an elongate pole to hold the apparatus adjacent the detector. The apparatus releases an aerosol simulated gas or heat into a cup, which is located over the detector in order to determine the point at which the detector is triggered. The cup is transparent to allow visual verification of the test by the tester.

An example of this kind of apparatus is disclosed in EP 0 698 262 (No Climb Products Limited). This type of apparatus has become standard for use in detector testing. In EP 0 698 262 there is disclosed the use of an infra-red emitter and receiver arrangement within the device for the purpose of determining the concentration of simulated smoke in the cup during a test. The method of use involves using the emitter/receiver arrangement as a light obscuration sensor.

Despite the availability of such equipment, detector testing remains an arduous process, requiring a tester to individually attend every detector in a building, using the equipment to trigger each detector in turn. The tester must individually log each success or fail result and the corresponding detector ID to ensure the test results are adequately recorded. The time taken to conduct a test is important, not only for the efficiency of the detector testing process, but also because the building and any occupants are at risk whilst the fire alarm system is being tested. The cost of detector testing can be significant, particularly for large buildings or sites.

There also exists a possibility that human error could cause erroneous test result entries. However many existing systems do not provide the tools to verify whether or not tests have been conducted correctly.

EP 1 468 409 (No Climb Products) proposes the provision of a modified system in which the detector comprises a read/write memory device, such that the detector ID can be read when the test device is brought into proximity with the detector. A test result is written to the memory device and can be read by the test device. Therefore, upon providing a suitable interrogation signal, the testing device can obtain the detector ID and the previous test result from the detector memory device. The system has a control unit having a recording device to log test results. The recording device may be connected to a computer to download the test data and also to upload any further instructions to be delivered to the detector memory device for subsequent testing.

Whilst this system provides potential benefits over manually recording test results, it remains a problem that manual verification of the test result is required. Furthermore, batches of test results must be collated and downloaded for a site. Thus detected issues are reported with a delay and may be subject to human error. This may require return visits to a site after the test results have been analysed.

Also, the provision of a bespoke memory read/write system requires the testing apparatus to be matched with a bespoke detector type. Incompatibility between detector and testing equipment can result in failed tests or the need for more timeconsuming manual intervention.

It is an aim of the present invention to provide a hazard detector test verification and/or logging system, which overcomes or mitigates one or more of the abovedescribed problems. It may be considered an additional or alternative aim to provide an efficient or universal hazard detector test verification & logging system.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a hazard detector test verification system comprising: a hazard detector having a visual activation indicator and a readable identification device; a portable testing device comprising an enclosure shaped to selectively enclose the hazard detector for testing and means for generating a test environment within the enclosure, the testing device further comprising a sensor arranged to detect triggering of the visual activation indicator during testing of the hazard detector and a communication device arranged to receive identification data from the readable identification device and a signal output of the sensor so as to output a test result verification signal based thereon.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a portable hazard detector test verification device comprising an enclosure shaped to selectively enclose a hazard detector for testing and means for generating a test environment within the enclosure, a visual indication sensor arranged to detect visual indication output of the hazard detector confirming activation of the detector during testing and a communication device arranged to receive identification data from the detector and a signal output of the visual indication sensor so as to output a test result verification signal based thereon.

According to a third aspect of the invention there is provided a kit for mounting to a portable hazard detector test apparatus having an enclosure shaped to selectively enclose the hazard detector for testing and means for generating a test environment within the enclosure, the kit comprising: a visual indication sensor arranged to detect a visual activation indicator of the hazard detector during testing; and a communication module arranged to receive a signal output of the visual indication sensor and identification data from the hazard detector so as to output a test result verification signal based thereon.

The system, device and/or kit of the invention may provide for hazard detector test verification and logging.

The readable identification device of the hazard detector may comprise a unique identifier, such as an identification code, for the hazard detector. The identification device may comprise a memory device. The identification code may comprise a visual code, e.g. wherein the identification device comprises a coded label applied to the hazard detector.

The communication device/module may be arranged to interrogate/read the identification device of the hazard detector, e.g. to obtain a unique identity for the hazard detector. The communication device/module may comprise a wireless, e.g. near-field, communication device.

The readable identification device may or may not comprise a read-only-memory. The readable identification device may comprise a wireless communication device, such as a near-field device, e.g. an RFID tag.

In examples of the invention, the enclosure is provided with light inhibiting means such as a light absorbing or reflecting material, e.g. for inhibiting ambient light passing into the enclosure. The enclosure may be provided with an opaque material, for example on a wall of the enclosure. The light inhibiting material may comprise a light filter, e.g. arranged to filter out/block certain wavelengths of light but permit passage of one or more further wavelength. Thus the light inhibiting means may be partially transparent so as to permit viewing of the interior of the enclosure during use of the testing device.

The enclosure may comprise the light inhibiting means, e.g. within the material/structure of the enclosure itself or as a cover or wrap applied thereto. The light inhibiting material may be attachable to and/or removable from the portable test apparatus.

The visual indication sensor(s) may be arranged to sense the presence or absence of light within the enclosure. The sensor(s) may be sensitive to the colour/wavelength of light or another property of electromagnetic radiation within the enclosure. The sensor(s) may be tuned to a specific colour or wavelength band. The sensor(s) may sense light within a wavelength band that is blocked by the light inhibiting means/material.

Additionally or alternatively, the sensor(s) may be arranged to detect a visual indication pattern, such as a continuous or intermittent pattern, e.g. flashing/blinking light emission.

The sensor(s) may be located on an interior surface/side of a light inhibiting material of the enclosure.

The test verification device or kit may comprise an antenna, e.g. a near-field communication antenna. The enclosure may comprise an open end or rim and the antenna may be positioned adjacent the open end or rim. The enclosure may comprise a lip at its open end, e.g. a circumferential lip. The antenna may be located against the lip and/or fitted thereto. The antenna may be formed with/within, or applied to, the light inhibiting means/material of the enclosure.

Typically the enclosure takes the form of a cup or bowl arranged for placement over the hazard detector.

The communication device/module may comprise an audio and/or visual signal output device, e.g. for informing the user of any or any combination of the status of the test, a successful detector ID read and/or hazard detector activation. A speaker, buzzer, light, LED, screen or other audio, visual and/or tactile signalling/alerting or reporting device may be used. Thus the user may receive local confirmation of the test status or activation result.

Additionally or alternatively, the communication device/module may comprise a data signal output device, e.g. a transmitter or transceiver. The device may output a signal comprising the hazard detector ID and the test result, e.g. including the time and/or date of the test.

The communication module/device may be arranged to confirm receipt the signal output of the visual indication sensor within a predetermined time period of receipt of the identification data from the hazard detector. The communication module/device may output a positive test result verification signal if the identification data and visual indication sensor output are received within said time period. The communication module/device may output a negative test result verification signal if one of the identification data and visual indication sensor output are not received within said time period. The time period may be initiated by receipt of the identification data.

The communication device may be connected to any or any combination of the antenna, light sensor(s), audio and/or visual output device.

The communication device may be mounted to the testing device, e.g. to the enclosure, light inhibiting means, or a device housing. The communication device may be removably mounted, e.g. in the case of the test verification kit/apparatus.

The communication device may communicate with a portable/remote communication device, such as a mobile telephone or the like carried by the user or a monitoring system for the building.

The communication device may communicate with a remote monitoring system. The remote monitoring system may maintain a status log for each hazard detector and may issue updates/alerts to users. Upon receiving one or more test result verification signal, the remote monitoring system may output an update to the user/tester, e.g. to their portable communicate device or else the communication device of the testing device/system. Thus the user may receive confirmation of the test result from the remote monitoring system, e.g. in near-real-time, so as to validate the test result before moving on to a further hazard detector test.

The remote monitoring system may issue an update or test status report to a building/facility operator, or other authorised party. This may provide confirmation/validation of the test results, e.g. including data/information corresponding to any or all verified test results. This may allow a facility operator to sign off the detector testing process in full sight of the results from the remote monitoring facility.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of verifying hazard detector test results using the system, device or kit of the previous aspects.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention, there is provided a system and method of monitoring hazard detector testing via a building safety monitoring system arranged to receive test results from the communication device of a hazard detector testing device and to output test results to one or more end user device.

Wherever practicable, any of the essential or preferable features defined in relation to any one aspect of the invention may be applied to any further aspect. Accordingly the invention may comprise various alternative configurations of the features defined above.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Practicable embodiments of the invention are described in further detail below by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, of which:

Fig. 1 shows a side view of a hazard testing device according to the prior art;

Fig. 2 shows a side view of a hazard testing device with test verification capability according to an example of the present invention;

Fig. 3 shows a schematic of a monitoring system including hazard detector test verification apparatus according to an example of the invention; and

Fig. 4 shows a schematic of a building safety monitoring system with which the invention may be implemented.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Turning to Fig. 1, there is shown an example of a hazard detector testing device 2 according to the prior art. The testing device 2 comprises a transparent upper enclosure 3 mounted to a lower housing 4. The enclosure is open at its upper end 5 in use such that it can be placed over a smoke detector 6.

The device 2 is mounted to a pole 7, only the upper end of which is shown in Fig.

1. Within the housing is provided an assembly for generating a test condition, e.g. a simulated smoke condition, within the interior of the enclosure 3. Such systems are known in the art and will not be described in detail for brevity since they are commercially available. An example can be found in EP 0 698 262, which controls the emission of an aerosol so as to create simulated smoke environment to trigger the smoke detector. In this manner the user operating the portable test apparatus may check not only a pass/fail result for the smoke detector but also the sensitivity of the smoke detector (i.e. the aerosol concentration in the enclosure that triggered the smoke detector). Thus it will be appreciated that a pressurised gas/aerosol reservoir is provided along with a suitable valve and control mechanism for controlled release into the enclosure interior. Alternatives to aerosols may be used to provide simulated smoke within the enclosure.

In other examples, the test condition generator could additionally or alternatively comprise a heater e.g. to create an elevated temperature within the enclosure within the vicinity of the hazard detector. The hazard detector would thus comprise a temperature sensor.

When the detector is being tested, the upper end 5 is brought into contact with the ceiling 9 about the hazard detector 6 and the test condition applied. The user can view the triggering of the detector via the transparent enclosure 3 according to light emitted from the detector visual indicator, which takes the form of a light emitting diode (LED) of the detector. The user can then manually log the test result.

Turning now to Fig. 2, there is shown an example of a hazard detector testing device 10 according to the present invention. The example is described below by way of a kit or device for attachment to the device 2 of Fig. 1 so as to provide additional functionality. This kind of device is beneficial since there exist a significant number of testing devices already in use and so the ability to retrofit those existing devices to provide additional functionality would make best use of existing equipment. However the invention may instead be implemented by making a new device having the features described below or by providing any or any combination of those features as optional modules or add-ons for a new detector device.

Like numerals are used in Fig. 2 for features identified in Fig. 1. For the example of Fig. 2, it is notable that no parts of the testing device 2 of Fig. 1 need to be removed, replaced or reconditioned. Instead the invention can be implemented simply by adding further components to the existing device.

In Fig. 2 the smoke detector 6 has an identification device 12. The identification device takes the form of a memory device, such as a chip or tag 12, onto which an identification code (e.g. a suitable alphanumeric code or similar) for the detector 6 is written. Typically a unique identifier is provided for each smoke detector.

In this example the detector identity device takes the form of a Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) tag. A passive tag is considered best suited such that it does not require a power source on-board the detector. Thus tags can be simply be embedded in, or applied to, a detector without significant alteration to the detector.

The RFID device 12 in this example comprises a read-only identity , in which the detector ID is stored. The ability to prevent writing to the memory allows robust and tamper-free operation. The device 12 may thus comprise a write-once-readmany (WORM) memory device. However in other examples of the invention, the memory device 12 could be used for other purposes as required.

The memory device 12 may be applied, to the underside or exterior of the hazard detector, e.g. using an adhesive/glue or other suitable fixing means. A tamperevident fixing method may be beneficial.

In other examples, the memory device could comprise other means for storing a product ID, such as, for example a graphical code, bar code, QR code or similar, which can be read by a suitable reader on the testing device 10. The memory device could comprise a label, sticker or other visual indicia applied to the exterior of the hazard detector.

In Fig. 2 there is shown a light-inhibiting member 14 applied to the wall of the transparent enclosure 3. The member 14 may be applied to the interior or exterior of the enclosure. The member 14 forms a wrapper or cover for the enclosure extending all the way around its perimeter.

The member provides a filter or block to ambient light passing through the enclosure side wall. The upper end 5 of the enclosure remains open when not in use.

The member 14 may take the form of a black-out wrapper, sleeve or other layer, which may be mounted or applied to the enclosure 3. Typically a flexible sheet material is used, which may be applied to the enclosure using an adhesive, such as a glue. A self-adhesive liner or cover maybe used. A peel-able and/or residuefree adhesive could be used in case it is desired to provide a removable wrapper. In other examples a tight fitting material may be used for the member 14. A friction-enhancing or non-slip material, e.g. such as an elastomeric material, could be used.

The member may be elastic, e.g. such that is a tight fit onto the enclosure 3. The member 14 may be formed as a closed loop or an open loop, e.g. having one or more fastener to hold the member 14 about the enclosure.

The periphery of the enclosure at its open end 5 may be provided with a resiliently deformable material, e.g. in the form of a lip or upstanding seal. This may provide a good, e.g. light inhibiting, seal with the ceiling 9 around the hazard detector 6 when the testing device is brought into contact therewith for use. Such a seal material may be integral with the light-inhibiting member 14 or separate therefrom.

The light-inhibiting member 14 has on its internal side a light sensor 16. This may be provided/mounted on the internal surface of the member 14 itself. In other examples the light sensor may be mounted to an internal surface of the enclosure 3 itself rather than the member 14. The sensor is thus sensitive to light emitted by the hazard detector visual indicator within the enclosure. Whilst a single sensor is shown for schematic simplicity, a plurality or array of light sensors may be provided. One or more sensor may be tuned to detect a specific colour/wavelength of light. For example, in the event that the test apparatus comprises an infra-red light emitter and receiver for detecting the presence of artificial smoke within the enclosure, the sensor may be tuned to detect light with a maximum threshold in the visible spectrum, e.g. to omit infra-red light from the activation detection process. Similarly, if a heater is used for detector activation, the sensor may omit wavelengths associated with thermal radiation caused by the heat activation process.

In an example, in which the member comprises a light filter, rather than a light block, the sensors may be tuned to colours/wavelengths of light filtered out by the member 14.

The member 14 also has mounted thereto indication means, such as one or more light (e.g. LED 18) capable of emitting one or more colour of light on the exterior side of the wrapper 14 and/or enclosure 3. Additionally or alternatively, the member 14 comprises an audio output device 20, such as a speaker, buzzer, alarm or the like for outputting sound into the environment surrounding the enclosure.

In other examples, the enclosure 3 itself may be formed of a suitable lightinhibiting material so as to avoid the need for a separate wrapper. In any such examples, the light sensor(s) 16 may be mounted to the enclosure itself and the indication means 18 and/or 20 may be mounted to the enclosure or elsewhere in/on the housing 4.

A communications module 22 is provided on the device 10. The communications module may comprise a power source and signal transmitter/receiver circuitry. The communications module 22 may have a wired or wireless connection with any or any combination of the visual indication sensor(s) 16, the light emitter 18 and/or audio output device 20. The communication module typically comprises a data/signal connection and also an electrical/power connection with any or any combination of those devices, such that a power source (e.g. battery) in the module 22 can power the relevant devices.

The communication module 22 in this example comprises a wireless/radio transmitter for sending verified detector activation data off the device 10. A suitably short-range wireless communication protocol may be used, such as Bluetooth (RTM) or Wi-Fi (RTM).

The communication module 22 may be attached to the housing 4 as a singular module, e.g. using an adhesive or a suitable fastener. A suitable bracket may be used, such the module can be removably attached, e.g. to permit replacement of the module or a battery, etc). The communication module 22 and/or an on-board power source, such as a rechargeable battery, may be located within, rather on, the housing 4. In other examples, the communication module 22 may be provided on the member 14.

The communication module typically comprises a controller (e.g. a suitably programmed chip) for controlling any or all of:

- RFID detection circuitry

- Light sensor detection circuitry

- LED control circuitry

- Audio control circuitry

- Wireless communication circuitry

The device comprises an antenna 24 for wireless communication. In this example, the antenna 24 comprises a loop antenna for RFID interrogation. A custom antenna 24 is provided on the member 14 in this example, e.g. as a loop towards the leading/upper peripheral edge of the sleeve-shaped cover/wrapper.

The antenna 24 surrounds the open end 5 of the enclosure 3.

In use, as shown in Fig. 3, a user can hold the device 10 up to a smoke detector 6 such that the open end 5 of the enclosure contacts the ceiling 9, or other support surface, on which the smoke detector 6 is mounted. The enclosure 3, including the light inhibiting member 14 surrounds the detector 6, such that the detector is maintained within the enclosure interior and is shielded from the external environment.

The communication module 22 is powered on and interrogates the RFID tag 12 so as to obtain the detector ID. The format of the obtained ID may be prescribed and may be checked by the communication module controller. Additionally or alternatively, the controller may be previously updated with a list of valid identification codes for the detectors to be tested, e.g. at a known site.

The action of successfully obtaining a code or reading a valid code may be indicated to the user by the external output device, e.g. light/LED 18 or audio signal generator 20. Thus the user may receive an indication that the test can commence.

Prior to testing the smoke detector 6, the status of the internal light sensor(s) 16 within the enclosure may be checked to ensure the internal light level/condition is adequate for the test. For example, there may be a threshold light level and the interior of the enclosure must be below said threshold level prior to commencing the test.

In the event that the light sensor(s) detect an activation output from the detector LED 8 prior to commencing the test, or unacceptable ambient light levels in the enclosure, this may be reported to the user e.g. via the external light/audio signal generator 18, 20.

The test condition is then generated within the enclosure and the visual indication sensor detects the presence or absence of an output from the detector activation LED 8. It is possible that the communication module continually interrogates the RFID tag 12, so as to ensure a concurrent test result is achieved at the time the detector ID is being read from the detector memory. However in the present example, in order to conserve energy, the successful reading of the hazard detector ID triggers a time period in which the detector activation signal must be received in order to achieve a verified detector activation signal output by the device 10.

The light condition indicative of smoke detector activation, as detected by the light sensor(s) 16 may comprise one or more of: a light level, a light colour (e.g. a wavelength falling within a permissible band) and/or a lighting pattern (e.g. a blinking or otherwise intermittent lighting pattern). The light 8 on the detector 6 may comprise a plurality of different colour LED’s or other light sources, or a single light source arranged to emit different colours of light, e.g. according to different operational states of the detector. In the present example, the sensor 16 detects a simple change in state of the light detector (i.e. between ‘off’ and On’ conditions) as being indicative of detector activation.

A time delay between test initiation and the sensed light condition could also be logged if desired.

Upon the controller receiving a sensor output from the light sensor 16 indicative of a positive or negative detector activation result, e.g. whilst reading a valid RFID tag or within the predetermined time period thereafter, the communication module generates and outputs a corresponding detector event signal, e.g. as a verified activation event signal or an alternative/failed event signal. In the event of no sensed light output from the detector for a predetermined period of time, e.g. akin to normal test window, the communication module may output a nonactivation/failed event signal. The predetermined time period will typically be a number of seconds, such as a time period less than, or equal to, 20 seconds, 10 seconds, 5 seconds or 3 seconds.

In order to implement this functionality, the ID obtained from the detector may be held in a volatile memory of the communication module/controller, e.g. in a timer state, for the predetermined time period. If the detector activation result is not received whilst the ID is held in the volatile memory, then a failed activation may be determined.

In this way positive and negative detector activation attempts can be logged. Thus every time a detector ID is read, an event log may be created. This allows tracking of the user/tester actions in a manner that has not been hitherto available.

The external LED 18 and/or audio generator 20 may be triggered to indicate to the user that the detector activation has been (a) successfully completed or (b) failed.

In one example of the invention, the communication module 22 could transmit the detector activation result signal by way of a suitable wireless signal (e.g. Wi-Fi (RTM) or a cell phone signal) to a local router or base station. In such examples, the communication module could compile the detector ID, activation result and time and date data for communication as an output signal (e.g. comprising packet data) for a remote recipient.

In the example, shown in Fig. 3, the communication module communicates with a portable electronic device 30 of the user/tester. This may allow use of a short(er) range wireless/radio communication signal such as Bluetooth (RTM). The portable communication device 30 can thus be employed to handle further communication/reporting functionality as will be described below. The portable device 30 may be a mobile phone, tablet, PDA or similar smart device having a screen, data processing/storage and communications circuitry of known type. The device 30 may run an application specifically for the handling/reporting of hazard detector status/test data.

The communication module 22 transmits the relevant output signal either directly or indirectly to a remote monitoring centre/facility 26, e.g. via a wide area network such as the world wide web 32, where the signal is received and a corresponding log is made in a data store (e.g. comprising a database) 28, in which data relating to the status of hazard detectors for the site under inspection is maintained. Typically the remote monitoring facility 26 has a server and other associated hardware allowing storage and management of data for multiple different sites. The monitoring facility can thus administer data from multiple different communications modules 22 and devices 10 being used to verify hazard detector testing at different locations. In this way the monitoring facility 22 may be offered as a central monitoring and alerting/reporting service for multiple users.

The monitoring facility 26 server can make available and/or transmit hazard detector status/test data to user devices. The transmission of data from the monitoring facility 26 provides alerting and reporting functionality. Thus during the testing process, upon receipt of activation data for an individual detector 6, the monitoring facility can output confirmation of the updated entry.

The use of a portable user electronic device 30 is beneficial in that the tester can receive confirmation of the logged detector activation result on the device 30 (e.g. by way of audio, visual and/or tactile output) in addition to, or instead of, via the output means 18, 20 on the device 10. The user device 30 may maintain a local log of test/activation status for a plurality of detectors 6 within a site. The device may be provided with the relevant data so as to create a test schedule for a site in advance. The test schedule may be populated with detector test/activation results as they are obtained from the communication module 22 and/or reported as being logged by the remote monitoring facility.

In this way a user can track the progress of the testing procedure and has a local electronic record of the test results. Regardless of whether an individual test was passed, failed or incorrectly conducted, the user has confirmation on device 30 to check before proceeding with the testing of the next detector or deciding whether further action is taken with respect to the previous detector test. Furthermore, the individual actions taken by the tester can be logged at a remote monitoring facility of later interrogation, reporting or other evidential use.

The remote monitoring facility 26 communicates a confirmatory signal when activation results for individual detectors 6 or a site/building as a whole have been received and/or updated in the data store 28. This return signal can then be logged on the user device 30 or communications module 22. In this way, the local log of the detector activation/test results is updated with an indicator that the results have been also recorded remotely. Thus the local and remote records can be synchronised by a suitable digital handshake procedure.

When the testing is complete, the user has a complete log of the activation/test results including the detector ID’s, the test outcome(s) for each detector and the associated time/date information.

With this type of report available, the user can sign off the testing work, e.g. by applying an electronic/digital signature via the device 30. This can be transmitted to the remote monitoring facility 26 as a final record of the test results. This may be used to provide an official record and/or test certificate to any other users of the reporting/alerting service such as a landlord, site operator or management company for the relevant building. This is represented in Fig. 3 by further user device 34, on which reports pertaining to any or all of the above-discussed information may be generated by communication with the monitoring facility 26.

The ability to sign off testing work using the system described herein may be of significant benefit to the efficiency of the testing process for both the tester and the site operator. It can be used to ensure compliance with the relevant local regulations by generating verified logs of testing work. Thus the verification and logging system enabled by the present invention can offer significant benefits over manual inspection and verification of detector activation during testing.

The invention disclosed herein also allows minimal battery usage, thereby allowing prolonged use by a mobile tester without the need for cumbersome battery packs or frequent recharging intervals.

Turning to Fig. 4 there is shown how the detector activation/test verification system described herein can be integrated into a wider alarm/safety management system 36 for a building/site. In Fig. 4 it can be seen that the hazard detectors 6 for a site are electrically connected, e.g. by cabling, to a local control/management unit 38, e.g. taking the form of a control panel. The system typically comprises other detectors, such as manual fire alarm trigger units 40, e.g. amongst other sensors that may be connected to the common control unit 38.

The control unit 38 controls triggering of the alarm and/or other reporting tools for the hardwired safety system in the building. The control unit 38 also allows control of testing of other aspects of the system, i.e. aside from the individual detector testing described above. The control unit 38 has a communication port, to which is connected a communication gateway device 42 for communication with the remote monitoring facility 26 described above. This provides online access to system status data and reports in addition to alerts when alarms are triggered, etc.

Thus the remote monitoring facility 26 can provide remote control room functionality for users via their own PC’s, tablets, mobile phones or other end user devices 34. Periodic testing and reporting for the site safety monitoring system can be provided using the system. The gateway device 42 can be configured to receive data from a plurality of different makes and models of control unit 38 so as to provide output data in a format that is suitable for the remote facility 26.

The control unit 38 is permanently mounted within the building and allows administration of commissioning, servicing, maintenance, testing, performance and day-to-day use of fire alarm systems or other security/safety systems.

Within the system of Fig. 4, the communication module 22 of the testing/verification device 10 could communicate directly or indirectly with the gateway device 42 for the building in which the testing is being carried out. Even for sites, in which no such gateway device 42 exists, the communication module 22 or the user electronic device 30 can be supplemented with a portable gateway device 44 so as to coordinate the communication of detector activation data with the remote monitoring facility 26 within the context of wider facility safety management.

Thus, if desired, the verified detector activation results can be integrated with a wider site management tool and can provide alerts and access to test reports/results in a format that is in keeping with other asset and safety monitoring equipment for the site.

The need to gather only an ID from the detector 6 itself allows the system to be universal in its potential implementation, without being tied to any specific make/model of detector or its associated test functionality.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A hazard detector test verification system comprising:

a hazard detector having a visual activation indicator and a readable identification device;

a portable testing device comprising an enclosure shaped to selectively enclose the hazard detector for testing and means for generating a test environment within the enclosure, the testing device further comprising a sensor arranged to detect triggering of the visual activation indicator during testing of the hazard detector and a communication device arranged to receive identification data from the detector and a signal output of the sensor so as to output a test result verification signal based thereon.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the readable identification device comprises a wireless communication device and the communication device is arranged to interrogate a memory of the wireless communication device.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the enclosure has an open end for locating over the hazard detector in use and the portable testing device comprises an aerial located about the open end for use in interrogating the hazard detector memory.

4. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the enclosure has a light inhibiting material.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the light inhibiting material comprises a cover arranged so as to extend around a peripheral wall of the enclosure.

6. The system of claim 4 or 5, wherein the sensor is located on an interior of the light inhibiting material of the enclosure.

7. The system of any preceding claim, the testing device comprising an audio and/or visual signal output device for indicating a hazard detector test status or result to a user in the vicinity of the testing device.

8. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the sensor is sensitive to a colour or intensity of light emitted by the visual activation indicator.

9. The system of any preceding claim, wherein a flashing or continuous pattern of light emission from the visual activation indicator is sensed by the sensor and checked by the communication device.

10. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the communication device comprises a data signal transmitter arranged to output a signal comprising the hazard detector ID and the hazard detector activation result.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the communication device is mounted to the testing device and communicates with a portable communication device of the user, the portable communication device transmitting a the detector activation verification signal to a remote monitoring system, wherein the detector activation verification signal comprises the hazard detector ID, the hazard detector activation result and the time/date of receipt of the activation result.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein the portable communication device has stored thereon a hazard detector test schedule, said schedule being populated by test results as they are received from the communication device of the testing device.

13. The system of claim 11 or 12, wherein the remote monitoring system maintains a status log for each hazard detector, the remote monitoring system issuing an update signal to the portable communication device or another monitoring device upon receipt of a test result verification signal for a hazard detector.

14. The system of any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the portable communication device comprises a digital signature input device such that a user can electronically sign off the test result for one or more hazard detector using the portable communication device to thereby create a validated test record.

15. A portable hazard detector test verification device comprising:

an enclosure shaped to selectively enclose a hazard detector for testing; a test environment generator for creating a test environment within the enclosure;

a visual indication sensor arranged to detect light emitted from a visual activation indicator of the hazard detector when the test environment is generated within the enclosure; and a communication device arranged to receive both identification data from the hazard detector and a signal output of the visual indication sensor, the communication device outputting a test result verification signal based thereon.

16. The device of claim 15, further comprising a reader device arranged to read an identification code off an identification device of the hazard detector when the enclosure is located over the hazard detector.

17. Apparatus for verifying a test result achieved by a portable hazard detector testing device having an enclosure shaped to selectively enclose the hazard detector for testing and means for generating a test environment within the enclosure, the apparatus comprising:

a visual indication sensor arranged to detect a visual activation indicator of the hazard detector during testing; and a communication module arranged to receive a signal output of the visual indication sensor and identification data from the hazard detector so as to output a test result verification signal based thereon.

18. The apparatus of claim 17 comprising a light inhibiting cover for the enclosure of the testing device.

19. The apparatus of claim 17 or 18 wherein the visual indication sensor is mounted to the interior of the light inhibiting cover.

20. The apparatus of any one of claims 17 to 19 wherein the communication device outputs a positive test result verification signal if the identification data from the detector and the signal output of the sensor are received within a predetermined time period.

21. The apparatus of any one of claims 17 to 20 wherein the communication device outputs a negative test result verification signal if the signal output of the sensor is not received within a predetermined time period after receipt of the identification data from the detector.

22. A method of monitoring hazard detector testing via a remote monitoring system, the method comprising performing a test using the system of claim 1, the test verification device of claim 15 or the apparatus of claim 17, receiving hazard detector test result verification signals at the remote monitoring system from the communication device, updating a database of the remote monitoring system comprising a log of hazard detector activation results and outputting the hazard detector activation results to one or more end user device.

Intellectual

Property

Office

Application No: GB 162043 6.4 Examiner: Anna Rice

22. The apparatus of any one of claims 17 to 21, provided as a kit or add-on for a portable hazard detector testing device.

23. A method of monitoring hazard detector testing via a remote monitoring system, the method comprising performing a test using the system, testing device or apparatus of any preceding claim, receiving hazard detector test result verification signals at the remote monitoring system from the communication device, updating a database of the remote monitoring system comprising a log of hazard detector activation results and outputting the hazard detector activation results to one or more end user device.

Amendments to the Claims have been filed as follows:CLAIMS:

1. A hazard detector test verification system comprising:

a portable testing device comprising an enclosure shaped to selectively enclose the hazard detector for testing and means for generating a test environment within the enclosure, the testing device further comprising a sensor arranged to detect triggering of the visual activation indicator during testing of the hazard detector and a communication device arranged to receive identification data from the detector and a signal output of the sensor so as to output a test result verification signal based thereon, wherein the communication device outputs a positive test result verification signal if the identification data from the detector and the signal output of the sensor are received within a predetermined time period.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the communication device is mounted to the testing device and communicates with a portable communication device of the user, the portable communication device transmitting a detector activation verification signal to a remote monitoring system, wherein the detector activation verification signal comprises the hazard detector ID, the hazard detector activation result and the time/date of receipt of the activation result.

15. A portable hazard detector test verification device comprising:

a visual indication sensor arranged to detect light emitted from a visual activation indicator of the hazard detector when the test environment is generated within the enclosure; and a communication device arranged to receive both identification data from the hazard detector and a signal output of the visual indication sensor, the communication device outputting a test result verification signal based thereon, wherein the communication device outputs a positive test result verification signal if the identification data from the detector and the signal output of the sensor are received within a predetermined time period.

a visual indication sensor arranged to detect a visual activation indicator of the hazard detector during testing; and a communication device arranged to receive a signal output of the visual indication sensor and identification data from the hazard detector so as to output a test result verification signal based thereon, wherein the communication device outputs a positive test result verification signal if the identification data from the detector and the signal output of the sensor are received within a predetermined time period.

20. The apparatus of any one of claims 17 to 19 wherein the communication device outputs a negative test result verification signal if the signal output of the sensor is not received within a predetermined time period after receipt of the identification data from the detector.

21. The apparatus of any one of claims 17 to 20, provided as a kit or add-on for a portable hazard detector testing device.