GB2574115A - A warning system for an electrical wiring enclosure - Google Patents

Abstract

A warning system is provided for use in an electrical wiring enclosure 1000 such as a fuse box, distribution board, or consumer unit. The warning system comprises an electrical device 1 comprising a battery (14,fig.6), a circuit board including a microprocessor (15,fig.6), and a transmitter. The device 1 is enclosed by a housing (23,24,fig.6) having a securing means (21,22,fig.4) for attaching the housing to a surface, such as a rail, moulding, or busbar 1003 within the wiring enclosure 1000. The warning system further comprises at least one sensor 2,3 such as a smoke, flame, gas, or temperature sensor. The smoke sensor 2 may be fitted into an external wall of the unit via a knock out panel on the unit exterior. The temperature sensor 3 may be arranged in the neutral bar. The microprocessor processes a signal from the at least one sensor and upon an alarm condition, the transmitter communicates a warning signal to a remote receiver. The alarm condition may result in the activation of a prevention system such as a sprinkler or gas suppression system. The smoke sensor 2 may further be provided with an audible alert.

Description

A WARNING SYSTEM FORAN ELECTRICAL WIRING ENCLOSURE

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a warning system for an electrical enclosure. More particularly the invention reduces risk of fire and thereby improves fire safety of enclosures, fuse boxes and electrical distribution boards or units.

Background

Increasing use of enclosures/distribution boards or distribution units is common in many electrical situations, for example a ‘consumer unit’ in a domestic dwelling.

There are typically two types of breakers mounted in the electrical panel. These include: MCBs (Miniature Circuit Breakers) and GFCIs (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters). A GFCI is more commonly referred to as an RCD (Residual Current Device) in Europe. An MCB is an electro-mechanical device, and acts like a fuse to trip to protect cables from overload and fault currents which can damage the cable or even cause a fire. A GFCI (RCD) trips and isolates a power supply if there is a flow of current from hot (line) to ground (earth) in a system such as when an appliance gets wet. GFCI devices can normally be identified because they are typically larger than MCB devices and often have a small test button.

When temperatures exceed a manufacturer’s recommended maximum or a standard for related wiring, equipment and associated electrical equipment can cause trouble to apparatus such as this and hazards to property and health.

The breakers (switchgear) are mounted on a DIN rail within the distribution board.

Prior Art

KR 101 615 144 (PARK) discloses a power distribution board that is secure from fire and a method of operating the same wherein the invention provides a branch breaker. A circuit includes: a temperature and gas (smoke) detector provided in a body to sense damage to an insulation material due to heat before the inside of the power distribution board is ignited and gas (smoke); and a stack light connected to the temperature and gas (smoke) detector announces an urgent situation when the power distribution board catches fire; and deploys a fire extinguisher for rapid extinguishing of the fire.

US 8 576 547 (GARRARD) discloses a safety module for mounting on an electrical switch board. The module includes: a body adapted to be mounted on an elongate mounting rail of the switchboard. The elongate mounting rail has a longitudinal direction and at least one input is provided for connection to at least one smoke detector. A circuit breaker opener comprises at least one arm extending externally of the body to at least one side of the body in the longitudinal direction.

GB 2 438 252 (MARSON) discloses a fire source isolation circuit to help overcome and reduce loss of life, injury and fire damage, and which is used and adapted to suit standard fire detection systems, in domestic premises and commercial premises when fed via RCD (residual current device) supplies. The fire source isolation circuit consists of a 12 way consumer unit split into two groups of miniature circuit breakers [MCBS]. One of the 6 groups of MOBS is protected by an RCD device and the other group of MCBS are used to feed lighting and alarms.

WO2010/083839 (KELD) discloses and apparatus and method for detecting a fire.

US5461367 (ALTAVELA et al) discloses a fire alarm for an electric panel cabinet.

GB2554913 (FLETCHER) discloses a sensor apparatus for sensing overheating.

The present invention arose in order to overcome problems suffered by existing devices.

Summary of the Invention

According to the present invention there is provided a warning system for use with an electrical wiring enclosure comprising: an electrical device suitable for receiving a power supply, the device is enclosed by a housing having a securing means for attaching the housing to a surface within a wiring enclosure; the housing contains a microprocessor or microcontroller for processing a signal from at least one sensor; a transmitter is operative to transmit a warning signal to a remote receiver when an alert is triggered by a signal processed by the microprocessor or microcontroller in response to the signal from the at least one sensor; and upon receipt of the warning signal, the remote receiver raises an alarm remote from an electrical enclosure.

Ideally the sensor(s) is in direct contact with a busbar/terminal and so senses any early temperature rise in advance of any excess overheating.

The alarm raised may be a notification such as an SMS, phone call, an alarm such as a fire alarm or a preventative automated action such as initiation of a sprinkler system and/or gas suppression system/s.

In this way the system permits the early detection of potential dangers, such as indication of conditions that may lead to a fire or detection of poisonous levels of gases, so that action can be taken early to prevent loss of life. By raising both a local alert and remote alarm a person or persons at a remote location are notified that a warning signal has been detected and can take action to avoid loss of life.

The system does not operate to disconnect a power supply to particular region but instead generates and alert sequence by means of a primary local alert and secondary remote means of raising alarm, so that preventive action can be taken at an early stage.

It is appreciated that the type of alert generated and alarm raised may be indicative of the level of risk. For example of a slightly increased temperature may generate a different alert and alarm to the alert and alarm generated for detection of smoke of flames.

Preferably the system provides a fire safety system locally that can correspond with remote fire safety means, such as a fire alarm or sprinkler system, thereby ensuring maximum promptness and availability of warnings of fire, excessive heat or smoke. It is appreciated that the system may be used for early warning for other safety systems, such as for detection of carbon monoxide.

The housing or the electrical device encases the microprocessor that processes data received from the at least one sensor or other components such as a battery. The housing also includes securing means to permit connection of the housing to a surface.

Typically the housing is moulded from synthetic plastics. Preferably the housing is similar to a residual-current device (RCD) so that housing can be fitted in the electrical wiring housing in a similar manner to an RCD. In some embodiments the electrical device may be an RCD (BS EN 61009), Miniature Circuit breaker (BS EN 60898) or Arc Fault Detection Device (BS EN 62606).

An exterior face of the housing may also include information such as date of manufacture, or a brand label/print. In some embodiments the exterior face of the housing is adapted to receive a label/print, for example having a recess.

Preferably the securing means on the housing are adapted for connection to a rail, in this way the housing can be fitted onto a rail such as a conductive rail. For example, the housing may include securing means that enable the housing to be clipped onto the rail, in the manner of a standard circuit breaker, comprising for example a displacement catch means and a fixed catch means. This enables the housing to be easily installed into an electrical enclosure such as a consumer unit without modification to the enclosure being required.

One example of a conductive rail is a standard type widely used for mounting circuit breakers, industrial and control equipment inside equipment racks. Such rails are often referred to as by DIN rails from the Deutsches Institut fCir Normung which is a widely adopted European standard.

In another embodiment the housing may include a securing means that is adapted to permit passage of a busbar, for example having a channel or slot through which the busbar passes.

In some embodiments the channel may be adapted to permit electrical connection of the electrical components within the housing to the busbar. For example the housing may include a slot for receiving a busbar and may include a terminal to permit electrical connection to the busbar.

In a preferred embodiment the channel or slot is arranged on a lower face of the housing and is at least 10mm deep and preferably 16mm deep.

The system has one or more sensor to detect variation in conditions. Typically the system has more than one sensor where each sensor detects different parameters such a temperature, presence of smoke, flame, gases. The sensors are selected based on the parameters which require monitoring and therefore multiple sensors may be provided to monitor different parameters. In some cases two or more sensors may be provided to monitor one parameter, possibly at different locations, or at the same location to provide greater accuracy of the reading.

The sensors may be arranged internal or external of the housing. In some embodiments the external sensors may be mounted remote of the housing.

Preferably the sensors are provided at locations that corresponds to the best detection point for detecting the conditions that may indicate a danger. For example, being located at an area most likely to overheat or emit poisonous gasses.

Preferably the system operates in two main steps, a first step which involves obtaining data by the sensor and if the data collected indicates a risk triggering a local alert, and a second step of transmitting a signal to a remote location to generate an alarm. The remote location may be a fire alarm, a smart phone, a command unit, fire station or similar.

Depending upon the data collected by the sensor(s) the alert generated may vary and the subsequent alarm that is raised may also vary. For example a small increase in temperature, below the level that would usually trigger a fire, may generate a local LED flashing alert and raise an SMS message to a user, whereas detection of smoke may trigger a flashing alert and audible alert and raise a phone call to a user and trigger the main fire alarm system.

The system may be provided as a retrofit item or as an integrated part of an electrical wiring enclosure, electrical distribution unit or electrical board.

The system and components of the present invention improves safety by providing earlier indication of a potential danger such as increased temperature or smoke prior to the outbreak of a fire.

Preferably the electrical device receives a power input line to supply the system. The power input line may be arranged to allow supply of power from an adjacent circuit breaker/device.

In some embodiments the apparatus comprises a power output line, for example in an embodiment in which the electrical device also functions as a circuit breaker and/or circuit device.

In some preferred embodiments the warning system also includes an uninterrupted power supply (UPS) such as at least one battery that is connected to, and capable of powering, the microprocessor or microcontroller and at least one sensor. The battery may provide the power source for the system or more preferably may provide an auxiliary power source should the main power supply fail.

Preferably the battery has at least a three hour operating life when mains supply fails or is disconnected.

Preferably the battery is rechargeable and maintained via integral trickle charger/battery management system.

The one or more sensor(s) detects the selected parameters and at a predefined level, or within, above or below a pre-defined range an alert is activated in response to data obtained by the sensor.

The sensor(s) may be located inside the enclosure so as to monitor the condition of the components and/or internal wiring. In other embodiments the sensor/s monitors ambient temperature external the enclosure.

A preferred embodiment of the invention includes multiple external temperature sensors to monitor terminals and busbars within an electrical wiring enclosure.

In a preferred embodiment at least one sensor is a thermostat for detecting a predefined temperature. The thermostat is mounted on or integrated with a neutral terminal within an electrical enclosure.

In another preferred embodiment the temperature sensor may be a thermistor coupled to the neutral terminal on a flying lead. The sensor is capable of communicating digitally over a modular bus wire/s. This allows the system to connect up to multiple temperature sensors.

The temperature sensor must be able to detect a temperature range varying at least between zero degrees Celsius and 90 degrees Celsius.

Preferably at least one of the sensors is a photo-electric smoke detector.

In some embodiments the system may include an infra-red sensor for detecting fire and/or heat.

The neutral terminal/s is typically a first point of overheating leading to a fire, therefore detection of increased temperature in this area, beyond a predetermined limit, would serve as a risk indicator of a fire starting. Early detection would enable preventive action to be taken.

The alert generated in response to data from a sensor is a local alert at an electrical wiring enclosure. Activation of the sensor within or beyond a pre-defined range, or above or below a pre-defined level may trigger an alert. The alert may audible, visual, haptic or a combination of any of the before mentioned alerts. In this way a local alert is activated as a warning.

Ideally the system includes a local audio and visual alert which are activated by the sensors. It is appreciated that different sensors may activate different alerts or sequences of alerts.

The alert means may be arranged in an enclosure, on an external surface of the enclosure or slightly remote of the enclosure. Preferably the alert means may comprise an audible and/or visual alert. In some embodiments the visual alert comprises an LED (light emitting diode), which may be envisaged to be externally mounted on the enclosure in use.

In some embodiments the system may include a self-contained smoke detector with an alert. The smoke detector may be located internal the enclosure so as to monitor the internal components and enclosures wiring. The alert may be arranged to project through the enclosure to an outer face, for example to provide a visual alert that can be seen without having to open the enclosure or to provide an audible alert that can be readily heard.

In some embodiments the housing includes at least one knock-out portion. In this way the housing can be easily adapted to receive wiring or sensors at desired locations on the housing.

For example a heat sensor, smoke detector or alert means may all be arranged to interact with the knock-out portions that are often preformed in the housing.

In this way the apparatus of the present invention may be intended as an aftermarket fitting apparatus for use in standard enclosures such as a consumer unit or distribution board.

In some embodiments the device may include, or be operable with an external smoke detector.

The transmitter may be connected to the remote receiver by a wired or a wireless connection. The type of connection used may be adapted depending on location and requirements. For example in some locations it may not be possible to reliably transmit a wireless signal and therefore a wired connection is required.

The output signal may contain a voltage.

For embodiments using a wired connection the system may be connected to the wiring of an existing system, such as hardwired fire alarm system.

For embodiments using wireless signal transmission the signal may be transmitted uses various methods such as, but not limited to a mobile network, infrared, radio frequency, Bluetooth (RTM) or satellite. It is appreciated that it may be necessary to permit relay of signals or issuance of repeated signals to ensure reliable transmission.

In embodiments of the system where the remote activation is performed wirelessly the system may include a modem (for example a 2G/3G/4G/5G modem) and a SIM card to allow bi-directional communication between the electrical device and a remote device such as a server.

Remote notifications may be programmed to be sent to pre-defined locations, such as to a smartphone, PC, server, or control unit. The raised alarm may be a remote notification may be in the form of an SMS or email including information relating to device identification, location and alert status warning.

In some embodiments the system may include a memory for storing user defined data. In this way data may be collected over time and subsequently analysed to indicate patterns such as high risk periods of time, preferred method and timing or alerts and alarms.

In some embodiments the system may be provided as a kit of parts. This may make it easier for aftermarket adaptation of known enclosure/electrical distribution units or boards. Additionally this may allow a user to select the components, for example the type of sensors for the location in which it is fitted.

The system may include a building management system (BMS) and a third party BMS triggered by a dry contact so as to activate the BMS, for example in situations of power failure.

In preferred embodiments the status of the system may be indicated by a light such as a light emitting diode (LED). For example the system may include red, green and blue indicator lights to advise of different statuses.

Preferably the system is constructed to be suitable for operating at and being stored at an ambient operating temperature range -20 degrees Celsius to +100 degrees

Celsius.

In preferred embodiments the system is connected to a power supply. The system may operate from either an AC or DC voltage supply via an external circuit breaker/device.

In some embodiments an enclosure may encase an internal and/or external smoke sensor and include an external alert such as include an external LED and/or external sounder. In this way when smoke is detected a local alert is generated.

It is appreciated that an external sounder provides an audio alert when activated by a sensor or test function. The external sounder may also be activated during a test. The decibel level is preferably approximately 85 Decibels.

In some embodiments a sensor and an alert means may share a single common arrangement but can be mounted separately internally or externally of an enclosure. .

In some embodiments the system includes a local user interface. The interface may include a test button which is typically a momentary switch. The test function may be indicated by different LEDs, such as a status indication LED, an activation LED and an external flashing LED.

In some embodiments a dry contact is used to enable/supply a trigger signal to an external 3rd party devices such as Hive smart home products. The voltage being ranges between AC or DC.

The switched live function enables an integrated or remote nominated supply voltage.

Preferably the system has various operating modes. For example in a normal operating mode data from the system may be recorded, such as a battery voltage reading, and sensor readings, with the data being sent to a remote server. The data may be sent at regular intervals, for example once a week. The data may be sent using the transmitter to send data to the remote receiver. Ideally the server receiving the data has a means to acknowledge receipt of the data transmission and indicates if the transfer of data is not successfully made. If a connection is not made the system moves into failed connection mode

In normal operating mode any local alert is dormant, for example a sounder is silent, and the external LED is dormant.

Additionally any switched live and dry contact for output should be open..

Preferably the system also includes a test mode. Typically the test mode is activated by pushing the test button and pushing the test button again deactivates test mode.

It is appreciated that it may be possible to perform a test function remotely, for example through a remote dashboard that communications with the electrical device.

When operating in test mode the electrical device sends a battery voltage reading and sensor readings to the server. The server should acknowledge receipt of the transmission and if it does not the system moves into failed connection mode.

While in test mode the alerts are triggered for a pre-determined period of time, or in a particular sequence to check they are working correctly.

The switched live and dry contact for output is closed during test mode and the third party contactor should be closed.

The system has an alert mode or modes. For example the system may have a warning mode and a fire mode wherein each mode is triggered by different parameters and may generate different alerts.

The alert mode may be triggered by one or more situation to include activation of one or more sensor, battery level falling below a specified threshold indicating loss of power, a requirement for servicing.

The alerts are intended to be distinguishable from any associated alarm, such as a fire alarm. For example the frequency and Decibel level of any local alert is different to that of a remote alarm.

The switched live and dry contact for output should be open and the third party contactor/relay should be open.

As an example a fire alarm mode may be triggered by any one or combination of the following events:

Temperature readings exceed 75 degrees Celsius

Internal smoke sensor reading indicating that smoke is present

Failure to reconnect

While in alarm mode any sounder may sound continually, and any LED should flash. The switched live and dry contact for output should be closed and the third party contactor should be closed.

Preferably while in alarm mode the unit should repeatedly send the current battery voltage reading and sensor readings to the remote receiver.

The system reverts back into normal operating mode when all sensor inputs have reverted back to normal operating conditions.

Preferably the system includes a failed connection mode. This mode is triggered if a confirmation of transmission to the server, which may be the remote receiver, is not received back from the server/remote receiver when in either normal or test mode. In this mode the unit should repeatedly attempt to transmit the current readings for the battery voltage and sensors.

If the system is unable to connect for more than a predetermined period of time a specific alert is issued.

Transmission packets from the electrical device to the remote server/receiver may include the following:

Battery voltage reading

Sensor readings

Operating mode (may be sent with every transmission)

System time stamp (may be sent with every transmission)

System identification (may be sent with every transmission)

Transmission packets from the server to the electronic device or to a remote dashboard may include:

Force mode - enter the selected operating mode remotely

Force data capture - make the specified unit send the most recent sensor readings

Force transmission rate - change the specified units transmission rate

Force sample rate - change the specified units sample rate

Receipt - notify the unit that the last transmission was received

Preferably the system has secure socket layers (SSL) due to the potential security threat of external commands triggering an alarm. Use of SSL enables encryption of the link between each device and the remote receiver/server.

In preferred embodiments the system operable through a remote dashboard. The dashboard may permit two levels of account, admin and user.

The admin role allowing top level access to all user accounts, with the capability of deleting and editing all preferences, settings and accounts.

The user role allows the registration of single or multiple warning systems, it allows control over system settings and assignment of designated personal for the automated messaging on alarm events. It also allows remote instructions to be sent to the electrical devices.

Preferably all data received from registered devices is stored and made available to the user, for example in tabular form and via a simple graphical representation.

A preferred embodiment of the invention will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the Figures in which:

Brief Description of Figures

Figure 1 shows an isometric view of an embodiment of a distribution unit and apparatus for modifying the unit according to the present invention;

Figure 2 shows a reverse isometric view of the embodiment shown in Figure 1;

Figure 3 shows an isometric view of the embodiment of the device shown in in Figure

1;

Figure 4 shows a reverse isometric view of the embodiment of the device shown in

Figure 3;

Figure 5 shows an exploded isometric view of the embodiment of the device shown in Figure 3;

Figure 6 shows a reverse exploded isometric view of the embodiment of the device shown in Figure 3;

Figures 7 show isometric views of a smoke detector and visual alert unit shown in the kit of parts in Figure 1;

Figures 8 show exploded isometric views of the unit shown in Figures 7;

Figures 9 show isometric views of the embodiment of the heat sensor shown in the apparatus of Figure 1;

Figure 10 shows exploded isometric views of the sensor shown in Figures 9;

Figures 11 A, 11,B, 11C, 11D show various views of a sensor for a monitoring a neutral connection;

Figures 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D show various views of a sensor for a monitoring a neutral connection; and

Figure 13 shows a clock diagram of the system.

Detailed Description of Figures

With reference to Figures 1 and 2 there is shown an embodiment of the present invention arranged in a distribution unit 1000. The warning system for an electrical wiring enclosure comprises an electrical device 1 encased within a housing that contains components.

The housing is arranged to fit onto a DIN rail 1003 of the unit 1000. Wired connections 4 and 5 (See Figure 2) are provided to connect to a smoke detector and combined alert 2 and a temperature sensor 3. In some embodiments the unit is not comprised within the invention.

Figures 3 to 6 specifically show the housing or the electrical device 1.

The device 1 is a discrete device that has a securing means in the form of a female connector 12 that clips onto the rail using a displacement catch means 21 and a fixed catch means 22. In this way the electrical device can be easily mounted to a rail 1003 in the unit 1000.

The device 1 comprises a housing formed from two thermoplastics housings 23, 24. A battery 14 and printed circuit board (PCB) 15 including a microprocessor or microcontroller 15 are housed within the housing.

The device has a test button 13 to allow a user to check the system is operating correctly.

The housing as ingresses 7, 8 and terminal blocks 10, 9 for the outgoing alert/alarm signal and outgoing power feed respectively, as well as a terminal 11 and ingress 6 for incoming power for example from a precedent circuit breaker/device.

In use the temperature sensor 3 is arranged in the neutral bar 1003 of the distribution unit 1000.

In use smoke detector unit 2, shown in detail in Figures 7 and 8 is located on and screwed onto the external wall of the distribution unit 1000. The smoke detector unit 2 combines a sensor (smoke detector) with an alert (audible/visual module). It is appreciated that in other embodiments these components may be provided separately, in which case each component is separately mounted on the enclosure. In some configurations it may be necessary to provide blanking panels to approved standards that will close or reinforce any openings.

The smoke detector 29 portion of the smoke detector unit 2 is located internal the unit 100, and the alert 28 is located on the exterior of the housing, so as to be visible.

The alert 28 comprises a flashing light emitting diode (LED), in a red translucent cover.

Figures 7 and 8 show an example of a smoke detector unit 2 that is combined with an alert.

The smoke detector unit 2 has a smoke detector 29 formed of two parts 29A, 29B and flanged housing 30 which receives the smoke detector 29, a lock ring 31 which permits a lens 28 and audible and/or visual alert module 32 to be connected to the smoke detector forming a single unit. The configuration of the smoke detector unit 2 permits the smoke detector unit to be fitted so that it traverses a wall of unit (electrical wiring enclosure) such that the smoke detector sits within the enclosure and the lens and is visible on an external part of the enclosure.

The external wall 1004 of the distributor unit 1000 comprises a plurality of knock-out disc holes 1002 to allow passage of wiring for example using cable glands (not shown). The smoke detector unit is a standard cable gland size so that it can be fitted in one of the disc holes 1002, and comprises two main screw fit parts (30. 31), which screw over the hole to either side of the wall 1004. This enables the smoke detector unit 2 to be securely placed into position. In further embodiments knock out holes are provided on all external walls of the unit.

Further embodiments of the device may be envisaged to permit wired connection with a third party, independent or discrete alert mechanism or remote devices. In this way the remote devices may provide an alert for remote purposes, for example to warn all residents of a multiple occupancy premises.

The device is formed in polybutylene terephthalate (PBT and coloured ‘fire engine red’ (Pantone 448C) at least in part.

Figures 9 and 10 show an example of a heat sensor 3 that can be slotted into a neutral bar. The heat sensor(s) 3 comprises a connection that is sized to slot into the neutral bar of the enclosure/distributor unit 1000. The sensor is wired to the electrical device 1 such that the sensor is connected to the microprocessor or microcontroller.

In use the sensor(s) detects changes in environment, atmosphere and temperature and feed back this information to the microprocessor or microcontroller which processes the data and will generate an alert if certain conditions are decided.

For example the smoke detector unit 2 is provided to detect smoke within the enclosure/distribution unit and if detected an alert is activated as the smoke detecting portion extends into the enclosure.

It is appreciated that the smoke detector unit 2 may be configured to detect smoke external of the enclosure/distribution unit, for example if the smoke detecting portion is arranged on an outer face of the enclosure/distribution unit, or the smoke detecting unit may be configured to detect smoke both internally and externally of the enclosure.

When heat or smoke is detected, the device unit 3 sends a signal to the alert and a transmitters sends a signal to a remote receiver which may be an external device or mobile device such as a smartphone to which it is connected.

The local alert may emit a siren and/or a flashing light to provide persons (residents/public) with an early warning to check the enclosure, evacuate the building/ and alert the fire brigade, emergency services, or appropriate persons. When an alert is activated a signal is transmitted from the transmitter to the remote receiver to raise an alarm. The alarm raised is different and/or separate to the local alert.

In some embodiments the apparatus may comprise a battery health LED status indicator or monitor, for example an indicator light.

Figures 11 and 12 show examples of other sensors that may be used to detect temperature at a neutral terminal, bar or neutral connection.

Figures 11A (overview), 11B (top view), 11C (cross section), 11D (bottom view) show a round connector 40 with a neutral termination input 41, a sensor housing 42 which holds the neutral termination input and a lead 44 that connects to the modular bus wiring. Ideally the round connector is machined as a single part and is conductive.

In Figure 11C the temperature sensor 43 can be seen embedded in the sensor housing 42 and the sensor housing 42 is encapsulated in a heat conducting material

45.

Figures 12A (overview), 12B (top view), 12C (cross section) and 12D (bottom view) show a square connector 50. The square connectors has a neutral terminal input 51 that has a debossed surface to make it a sufficient fixing. . A temperature sensor 53 is arranged in contact with an encapsulating material that in itself is housed within neutral termination input 51. Any hollow regions are filled with an encapsulating 10 material 55 that is heat conductive. A sensor housing 51 which holds the neutral termination input and a lead 54 that connects to the modular bus wiring.

Figure 13 shows a typical block diagram example of the system.

The invention has been described by way of examples only and it will be appreciated that variation may be made to the above-mentioned embodiments without departing from the scope of invention as defined by the claims, in particular but not solely combination of features of described embodiments.

Claims (19)

1. A warning system for use in an electrical wiring enclosure comprising: an electrical device suitable for receiving a power supply, the device is enclosed by a housing having a securing means for attaching the housing to a surface within the wiring enclosure; the housing contains a microprocessor or microcontroller for processing a signal from at least one sensor; a transmitter is operative to transmit a warning signal to a remote receiver when an alert is triggered by a signal processed by the microprocessor or microcontroller in response to the signal from the at least one sensor; and upon receipt of the warning signal the remote receiver raises an alarm that is remote from the electrical enclosure.

2. A warning system according to claim 1 wherein the at least one sensor is provided external of the housing.

3. A warning system according to claim 1 or claim 2 including at least one battery that is connected to and capable of powering the at least one sensor.

4. A warning system according to any preceding wherein the securing means are adapted for connection to a rail.

5. A warning system according to any preceding wherein the securing means are adapted for connection to a moulding.

6. A warning system according to any preceding wherein the securing means are adapted for connection to a busbar.

7. A warning system according to any preceding claim wherein the transmitter is connected to the receiver by a wired connection.

8. A warning system according to any preceding claim wherein the transmitter communicated with the receiver by a wireless connection.

9. A warning system according to any preceding claim wherein the at least one sensor is for detecting smoke and/or a flame and/or a gas, such as CO or CO2.

10. A warning system according to any preceding claim wherein the at least one sensor is a thermostat for detecting a predefined temperature/s.

11. A warning system according to any preceding claim wherein at least one sensor is provided on, about or within a neutral terminal within the electrical enclosure.

12. A warning system according to any preceding claim wherein the housing has a channel for receiving a busbar.

13. A warning system according to any preceding claim wherein the housing includes at least one knock-out portion.

14. A warning system according to any preceding claim wherein the alarm raised is an audible alarm, an email, an SMS.

15. A warning system according to any preceding claim wherein the alarm raised activates a prevention system such as sprinklers or gas suppression systems.

16. A warning system according to any preceding claim wherein a smoke detector is provided with an audible alert.

17. A warning system according to any preceding claim including at least one smoke alarm.

18. A warning system according to claim 16 wherein the smoke alarm is external of the electrical wiring enclosure.

19. A warning system according to any preceding claim including a memory for storing user defined data.