GB2592660A

GB2592660A - Hazard detector testing

Info

Publication number: GB2592660A
Application number: GB2003234.8A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Stuart Allen; Bartlam Philip; Andelin Jacob
Original assignee: No Climb Products Ltd
Current assignee: No Climb Products Ltd
Priority date: 2020-03-05
Filing date: 2020-03-05
Publication date: 2021-09-08
Anticipated expiration: 2040-03-05
Also published as: GB2592660B; GB202003234D0

Abstract

Hazard detector testing system 100 comprises sensor 130, stimulus generator 150, and controller 110. The sensor detects both EM-radiation produced by a hazard detector and ambient EM-radiation. The stimulus generator produces a test stimulus such as heat or simulated smoke to activate an alarm state of the hazard detector. The controller determines whether the hazard detector has entered an alarm state based on the EM-radiation detected by the sensing arrangement. The electromagnetic radiation may be visible light. The hazard detector may produce EM-radiation periodically and the testing system may determine that the hazard detector is in an alarm state when it produces EM-radiation continuously or at a different periodicity. The system may feature a proximity sensor and/or a time-of-flight sensor. Further aspects include: testing a hazard detector based on a detected signal from the detector and a sensed distance between the detector and a testing system; testing a hazard detector based on an alarm state and a detected stability of the detector; and calibrating a hazard detector testing system.

Description

Hazard Detector Testing

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to testing of the operation of hazard detectors. BACKGROUND Hazard detection systems can utilise a variety of sensors to detect hazards, including smoke sensors, heat sensors, gas sensors, etc. Equipment to carry out functional testing of different types of hazard detector is already known. In such equipment, test stimulus can be designed to replicate the hazard in a non-hazardous fashion (e.g. heat, simulated smoke), so that the correct operation of the detector and/or the system can be verified without the risk of duplicating the real hazard (e.g. a real fire). A test system for carrying out a functional test would normally require an operator to manually activate the test system to initiate a test on a hazard detector, determine whether a test was a success by manually checking for an output from the hazard detector under test, and then manually log the result of the test. This relies on an operator correctly carrying out an assessment and can be prone to errors.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

From a first aspect, the present invention provides a system for testing a hazard detector, the system comprising: a sensing arrangement configured to detect electromagnetic radiation produced by a hazard detector, and to detect ambient electromagnetic radiation; a stimulus generating arrangement configured to produce a test stimulus to test the hazard detector, wherein the test stimulus is to activate an alarm state of the hazard detector; and a controller configured to determine whether the hazard detector has entered the alarm state based on the electromagnetic radiation and ambient electromagnetic radiation detected by the sensing arrangement.

From a second aspect, the present invention provides a method of testing a hazard detector corresponding to the first aspect, the method comprising: obtaining data relating to electromagnetic radiation produced by the hazard detector; detecting ambient electromagnetic radiation; generating a test stimulus, wherein the test stimulus is to activate an alarm state of the hazard detector; and determining whether the hazard detector has entered the alarm state based on the electromagnetic radiation produced by a hazard detector and the detected ambient electromagnetic radiation.

From a third aspect, the present invention provides another system for testing a hazard detector, the system comprising: a first sensing arrangement configured to detect a signal from a hazard detector; a second sensing arrangement configured to measure the distance between the hazard detector testing system and the hazard detector; a stimulus generating arrangement configured to produce a test stimulus to test the hazard detector, wherein the test stimulus is to activate an alarm state of the hazard detector; and a controller configured to determine a test result based on whether the hazard detector has entered the alarm state based on the signal detected by the first sensing arrangement and the measured distance by the second sensing arrangement.

From a fourth aspect, the present invention provides a method of testing a hazard detector corresponding to the third aspect, the method comprising: measuring the distance between a hazard detector and the hazard detector testing system; generating a test stimulus, wherein the test stimulus is to activate an alarm state of the hazard detector; determining a test result based on whether the hazard detector has entered the alarm state and the measured distance between the hazard detector and the hazard detector testing system.

From a fifth aspect, the present invention provides a hazard detector testing system comprising: a first sensing arrangement configured to detect a signal from a hazard detector; a second sensing arrangement configured to detect stability; a stimulus generating arrangement configured to produce a test stimulus to test the hazard detector, wherein the test stimulus is to activate an alarm state of the hazard detector; and a controller configured to determine a test result based on whether the hazard detector has entered the alarm state based on the signal detected by the first sensing arrangement and the detected stability of the second sensing arrangement.

From a sixth aspect, the present invention provides a method of testing a hazard detector corresponding to the fifth aspect, the method comprising: generating a test stimulus, wherein the test stimulus is to activate an alarm state of the hazard detector; determining a test result based on whether the hazard detector has entered the alarm state and a detected stability of the hazard detector testing system.

From a seventh aspect, the present invention provides a system for testing a hazard detector comprising a dispenser for attachment to an elongate pole, the dispenser further comprising any one or more of the aforementioned hazard detector testing systems of the first or third or fifth aspect.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Examples of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of the hazard detector testing system according to a first example of the invention; Figure 2 shows a flow diagram of the method for testing the hazard detector using the hazard detector testing system of Figure 1; Figure 3 shows a flow diagram of an example method for determining alarm state activation in a hazard detector testing system of Figure 1; Figure 4 shows a flow diagram for an example method for calibrating the hazard detector testing system of Figure 1; Figure 5 shows a schematic diagram of the hazard detector testing system according to a second example of the invention; Figure 6 shows a flow diagram of an example method for testing the hazard detector using the hazard detector testing system of Figure 5; Figure 7 shows a flow diagram of an example method for generating a test stimulus using the hazard detector testing system of Figure 5; Figure 8 shows a flow diagram of an example method for determining a test result using the hazard detector testing system of Figure 5; Figure 9 shows a schematic diagram of the hazard detector testing system according to a third example of the invention; Figure 10 shows a flow diagram of an example method for determining a test result using the hazard detector testing system of Figure 9; Figure 11 shows a schematic diagram of a dispensing tool that includes some or all of the elements of the hazard detector testing system of figure 1, figure 5 or figure 9;

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Examples described herein relate to hazard detector testing systems which are used to test hazard detectors.

Referring to Figure 1, there is shown an example of hazard detector testing system 100.

In this example, the hazard detector testing system 100 comprises a controller 110. The controller 110 may comprise a plurality of components, some of which are described below according to an example. The controller 110 may be a programmable logic device (PLD) or other computing device that can carry out instructions. The controller 110 may include multiple processing elements that are integrated in a single device as described in the example below or distributed across devices.

The controller 110 of the hazard detector testing system 100 may comprise a controller data input/output unit 111 to receive input data from external components including, but not limited to, a user interface module 120 and a sensing arrangement 130. The controller data input/output unit 111 may also output data from the controller to other external components including, but not limited to, a stimulus generating arrangement 150. In an example, the controller data input/output unit 111 may comprise a transmitter arrangement to wirelessly send data from the controller 110 to a corresponding receiving device. In an example, the data sent wirelessly from the controller 110 via the controller data input/output unit 111 may be sent to a mobile communication device. In a further example, the data sent wirelessly from the controller 110 via the controller data input/output unit 111 may be sent to a Fire Control Panel (FCP). Hazard detection devices on which testing may be carried out by the hazard detector testing system 100 may be connected to the FCP, which is the central control point for the fire system in a building. In an example, the controller data input/output unit 111 may comprise a receiver arrangement to receive data from an external device to the controller 110 wirelessly.

The controller 110 of the hazard detector testing system 100 may further comprise a processor 112 to manage all the components within the controller 110, and process all data flow between the components within the controller 110.

The controller 110 of the hazard detector testing system 100 may further comprise a memory unit 113 to store any data or instructions which may need to be accessed at a later stage. The time extent to which the data is stored in the memory unit 113 may vary depending on the various data requirements of the controller 110.

The hazard detector testing system 100 as shown in Figure 1 further comprises a user interface module 120 to allow a user to interact with the hazard detector testing system 100. The user interface module 120 may comprise a Ul data input/output unit 121 to facilitate entry of the input data into the hazard detector testing system 100. The Ul data input/output unit 121 may include a display screen and/or input devices (not shown) in the form of text buttons to allow user interaction and/or data input into the hazard detector testing system 100. In an example the display screen may be a touch sensitive screen. The input data may be, but is not limited to, model and/or make information relating to any specific hazard detector. The user interface module 120 may further comprise a processor 122 to receive and process data input by the user which may then be sent to the controller 110 from the user interface module 120, via the Ul data input/output module 121. In an example, the Ul data input/output unit 121 may comprise a transmitter to wirelessly send data from the user interface module 120 to a corresponding receiving device. In an example, the corresponding receiving device may be the controller 110. In an example, the data sent wirelessly from the user interface module 120 via the Ul data input/output unit 121 may be sent to a mobile communication device. In a further example, the data sent wirelessly from the user interface module 120 via the Ul data input/output unit 121 may be sent to the Fire Control Panel (FCP). In an example, the U I data input/output unit 121 may comprise a receiver arrangement to receive data from an external device to the user interface module 120 wirelessly.

The hazard detector testing system 100 as shown in Figure 1 further comprises the sensing arrangement 130. The first sensing arrangement 130 may comprise a sensor configured to detect the output signals from the hazard detector. In an example, the first sensing arrangement 130 may comprise at least one photosensitive element configured to detect visible light of various wavelengths. In other examples, there may be a plurality of photosensitive elements or an array of photosensitive elements. The photosensitive element may be configured to receive photons of light and convert the received photons into data which may be processed by the controller 110 via processor 112. In a further example, the sensing arrangement 130 may comprise at least one camera configured to record visible light of various wavelengths. The camera may be configured to record visible light and convert the received images into data which may be processed by the controller 110 via processor 112. The sensing arrangement 130 is not limited to a photosensitive element or a camera. Any device, or combination of devices, which may be configured to receive visible light may be implemented in the sensing arrangement 130. In another example, the first sensing arrangement 130 may comprise at least one infrared sensor configured to detect infrared signals produced by the hazard detector. In another example, the first sensing arrangement 130 may comprise at least one Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) reader configured to detect radio frequency signals transmitted by the hazard detector. In another example, the first sensing arrangement 130 may be configured to detect a predetermined electromagnetic interference (EM I)/noise radiation profile produced by the hazard detector when the hazard detector has entered an alarm state. The first sensing arrangement 130 is not limited to the above mentioned sensing elements. The hazard detector that is being tested using the hazard detector testing system may comprise a plurality of signal transmitting elements to indicate the state of the hazard detector. Any sensing element, or combination of elements, which may be configured to receive the signals produced by the hazard detector may be implemented into the sensing arrangement 130 The hazard detector testing system 100 as shown in Figure 1 further comprises the stimulus generating arrangement 150. The stimulus generating arrangement 150 is configured to release a stimulus to activate an alarm state of a hazard detector and may be conventional. The stimulus is to replicate a hazard in a non-hazardous fashion (e.g. heat, simulated smoke). The stimulus may vary depending on the type of hazard detector that is being tested. In an example, the stimulus generator 150 may generate a smoke, heat or carbon monoxide (CO) stimulus if the hazard detector being tested is a smoke, heat and / or CO detector respectively. The stimulus generator 150 may be capable of generating one or more of the test stimuli to test a multi-hazard detector that detects for different types of hazard such as smoke, heat and CO.

The hazard detector testing system 100 as shown in Figure 1 further comprises a database 113a which comprises data relating to the model and/or make of hazard detectors to be used with the hazard detector testing system 100. In an example, the database 113a may be provided in a server remote from the location where the testing of the hazard detector is carried out. In an example, the server may be a part of a cloud computing network. In a further example, the database 113a may be located in the memory unit 113. The database 113a is not limited to being located in the remote server or the memory unit 113. The database 113a may be located in any location where data can be stored The database 113a may send data to or receive data from the controller 110 via a wired or wireless connection.

In an example, the hazard detector may have a normal state and an alarm state. The normal state of a hazard detector is an indication that a stimulus indicative of a hazard is not present in the hazard detector. In an example, a hazard detector may emit visible light of a specific wavelength periodically, where a quick flash of the specific visible light is emitted once every minute (or any other specified time depending on the make and model of the hazard detector), to indicate a normal state. The alarm state of a hazard detector indicates that a stimulus has been detected by the hazard detector. In an example, a hazard detector may emit visible light of a specific wavelength in a pattern different to that in its normal state so as to distinguish the alarm state from normal state, to indicate that a stimulus has been detected. This may be continuously, where the specific visible light is emitted as a solid light -or flashing at a different period to the normal state. The hazard detector is not limited to producing electromagnetic radiation in the form of visible light in the above mentioned configurations. The indication of alarm state and normal state may vary depending on the make and/or model of the hazard detector being tested.

Referring to Figure 2, there is shown a flow diagram of a method 200 of testing a hazard detector using the hazard detector testing system 100. The method 200 starts with obtaining 210 data relating to electromagnetic radiation produced by the hazard detector.

In block 210, the controller 110 may obtain data relating to electromagnetic radiation produced by a hazard detector from the database 113a and store the data within the memory unit 113. The data may be in relation to information about the normal and alarm state of the hazard detector. In an example, the hazard detector testing system 100 may have, stored within the database 113a, predetermined data relating the normal and alarm state of multiple models and/or makes of hazard detectors. In a further example, the user may download data relating to the normal and alarm state of specific models and/or makes of hazard detectors from an external resource, which may then be stored within the database 113a. In a further example, where data relating to the normal and alarm state of specific models and/or makes of hazard detectors is not available, the hazard detector testing system may create a new entry into the database 113a, which may then be used for further tests on hazard detectors of the same make and/or model.

S

Further discussion in relation to this example will be provided later when referring to figure 4.

In block 220 of method 200, the ambient electromagnetic radiation is detected. The ambient electromagnetic radiation may be the visible light around a hazard detector. In an example, the ambient electromagnetic radiation is detected via the sensing arrangement 130 and the data relating to the detected ambient visible light may be stored in the memory unit 113 of the controller 110. In an example, the controller 110 may process the detected ambient electromagnetic radiation via the processor 112 and distinguish the component of the ambient electromagnetic radiation which relates to the electromagnetic radiation produced by the hazard detector during normal state. The ambient electromagnetic radiation may comprise a combination of any background visible light around the hazard detector and the electromagnetic radiation produced by the hazard detector during normal state. In an example, the background electromagnetic radiation may be background visible light. In a further example, the controller 110 may receive, from the memory unit 113, stored data relating to the electromagnetic radiation produced by the hazard detector during normal state and the stored data relating to the detected ambient visible light, and via the processor 112, determine a baseline electromagnetic radiation data which combines the data relating to the electromagnetic radiation produced by the hazard detector during normal state and the data relating to the detected ambient electromagnetic radiation.

In block 230 of method 200, the test stimulus is generated via the stimulus generating arrangement 150. The stimulus generating arrangement 150 generates a stimulus depending on the type of hazard detector. In response to detecting the stimulus, the hazard detector may enter the alarm state. In an example, the generation of the stimulus via the stimulus generating arrangement 150 may trigger the sensing arrangement 130 to commence detection of electromagnetic radiation produced by the hazard detector during alarm state.

In block 240 of method 200, hazard detector testing system determines whether the hazard detector has entered the alarm state as a response to the test stimulus generated by the stimulus generating arrangement 150.

Referring to Figure 3, there is shown a flow diagram of one example of a method 300 of determining alarm state activation as described in block 240.

In block 310 of method 300, the controller 110 receives data from the sensing arrangement 130. The received data relates to any detected electromagnetic radiation which has been detected by the sensing arrangement 130.

In block 320 of method 300, the controller 110 retrieves the stored baseline electromagnetic radiation data from the memory unit 113. The controller 110 also retrieves the data relating to the electromagnetic radiation produced by the hazard detector during alarm state from the database 113a or from the memory unit 113.

In block 330 of method 300, the controller 110 processes, via the processor 112, the data received from the sensing arrangement 130, the data relating to the electromagnetic radiation produced by the hazard detector during alarm state, and the baseline electromagnetic radiation data. The controller 110 may identify a component of the data received from the sensing arrangement 130 which relates to the baseline electromagnetic radiation data. The controller 110 may also identify a component of the data received from the sensing arrangement 130 which relates to the electromagnetic radiation produced by the hazard detector during alarm state. Identifying the component of the data received from the sensing arrangement 130 which relates to the baseline electromagnetic radiation data can result in a more accurate and reliable identification of the data relating to electromagnetic radiation produced by the hazard detector during alarm state as the controller 110 can distinguish the alarm state from the normal state.

In block 340 of method 300, the controller 110 determines whether the alarm state has been activated after the test stimulus has been generated and can selectively judge if there has been a successful test or a failed test. A successful test may be determined by the controller 110 if the electromagnetic radiation produced by the hazard detector during alarm state is identified within the data received from the sensing arrangement 130 after the stimulus generating arrangement 150 generates the test stimulus.

Alternatively, a failed test may be determined by the controller 110 if the electromagnetic radiation produced by the hazard detector during alarm state is not identified within the data received from the sensing arrangement 130 after the stimulus generating arrangement 150 generates the test stimulus. The controller 110 may wait for a predetermined period of time before determining that the hazard detector has not detected the test stimulus. In an example, the database 113a may have stored within it, data relating to the predetermined time for the specific make and/or model of the hazard detector. In another example, the predetermined time may be specified via the user interface module 120 before the test stimulus has been generated. In another example, the predetermined time may be up to 10-60 seconds after the generation of the test stimulus. The result of the determination of whether the hazard detector has entered alarm state may be stored in the memory unit 113 of the controller 110 or another memory unit such that the result can be automatically logged. Related information such as time and date and information relating to the detector including location of the detector in a premises may be stored along with the result of the determination.

In block 350 of method 300, the controller 110 outputs the result of the determination of whether the hazard detector has entered alarm state to an external device via the controller data input/output unit 111. In an example, the external device may be the user interface module 120. In a further example, the external device may be a mobile communication device. The result of the determination may be sent to another device such as a fire control panel or other remote unit using a transmitter arrangement (not shown).

Now referring to Figure 4, there is shown a flow diagram for an example method 400 for creating a new entry in the database 113a of the hazard detector testing system 100. In an example, the controller 110 may try to retrieve data, from the database 113a, relating to the electromagnetic radiation produced by a particular hazard detector during normal and/or alarm state, however no data relating to a particular hazard detector may be available within the database 113a, or downloadable by the database 113a. In this example, the controller 110 may perform method 400, which begins with determining 410 a baseline electromagnetic radiation data. This block may allow for data relating to electromagnetic radiation to be obtained from a detector as part of block 210 of figure 2 or a separate method. The sensing arrangement 130 may detect the ambient electromagnetic radiation around the hazard detector and the electromagnetic radiation produced by the hazard detector during a normal state over a specified time period. In an example, the detection of ambient electromagnetic radiation may comprise holding the hazard detector testing system 100 over the hazard detector for the specified period of time. The data detected by the sensing arrangement 130 may then be sent to the controller 110 via the controller data input/output unit 111. The controller 110 may process, via the processor 112, the data received relating to the ambient electromagnetic radiation and the electromagnetic radiation produced by the hazard detector during a normal state to determine a baseline electromagnetic radiation data.

The controller 110 may then store the baseline electromagnetic radiation data in the memory unit 113.

In block 420 of method 400, the test stimulus is generated via the stimulus generating arrangement 150. The stimulus generating arrangement 150 generates a stimulus depending on the type of hazard detector. In response to detecting the stimulus, the hazard detector may enter the alarm state. In an example, the generation of the stimulus via the stimulus generating arrangement 150 may trigger the sensing arrangement 130 to begin detecting for electromagnetic radiation for specified period of time.

In block 430 of method 400, the controller 110 determines a change in electromagnetic radiation produced by the hazard detector after the stimulus is generated by the stimulus generating arrangement. The controller 110 may receive data from the sensor arrangement 130 relating to the electromagnetic radiation detected for a specified period of time after the generation of the stimulus. The controller 110 may also retrieve the baseline electromagnetic radiation data from the memory unit 113. In an example, the controller 110 processes, via the processor 112, the data from the sensor arrangement 130 and the baseline electromagnetic radiation data to determine if there has been a change in the electromagnetic radiation produced by the hazard detector after the stimulus is generated compared to the baseline electromagnetic radiation data. In an example, the change may be determined by detecting whether the electromagnetic radiation has deviated from the baseline electromagnetic radiation by a threshold or sufficient amount. For example, where the detector has a light that flashes intermittently to indicate the state of the detector (e.g. normal, alarm), a detection that the light is flashing every 30 seconds may indicate that the detector is in a normal state. The threshold may be set to a first range, for example, 25-35 seconds to indicate normal state. A detection that the light is flashing every 5 seconds may indicate that the detector is in an alarm state. The threshold may be set to a second range, for example, 2-7 seconds to indicate alarm state. Other thresholds may be used and this can allow use with different detectors which may have different light flash rates within certain ranges to indicate the state of the detector.

In block 440 of method 400, the controller 110 stores the change in the electromagnetic radiation produced by the hazard detector after the stimulus is generated compared to the baseline electromagnetic radiation in the database 113a. The controller 110 may determine that this change in electromagnetic radiation is in relation to the electromagnetic radiation produced by the hazard detector during alarm state.

Referring to Figures, there is shown another example of hazard detector testing system 500.

In this example, the hazard detector testing system 500 comprises a controller 510. The controller 510 may comprise a plurality of components, some of which are described below according to an example. The controller 510 may be a programmable logic device (PLD) or other computing device that can carry out instructions. The controller 510 may include multiple processing elements that are integrated in a single device as described in the example below or distributed across devices.

The controller 510 of the hazard detector testing system 500 may comprise a controller data input/output unit 511 to receive input data from external components including, but not limited to, a user interface module 520, a first sensing arrangement 530 and a second sensing arrangement 540. The controller data input/output unit 511 may also output data from the controller to other external components including, but not limited to, a stimulus generating arrangement 550. In an example, the controller data input/output unit 511 may comprise a transmitter to wirelessly send data from the controller 510 to a corresponding receiving device. In an example, the data sent wirelessly from the controller 510 via the controller data input/output unit 511 may be sent to a mobile communication device. In a further example, the data sent wirelessly from the controller 510 via the controller data input/output unit 511 may be sent to a Fire Control Panel (FCP). Hazard detection devices on which testing may be carried out by the hazard detector testing system 500 may be connected to the FCP, which is the central control point for the fire system in a building. In an example, the controller data input/output unit 511 may comprise a receiver arrangement to receive data from an external device to the controller 510 wirelessly.

The controller 510 of the hazard detector testing system 500 may further comprise a processor 512 to manage all the components within the controller 510, and process all data flow between the components within the controller 510.

The controller 510 of the hazard detector testing system 500 may further comprise a memory unit 513 to store any data or instructions which may need to be accessed at a later stage. The time extent to which the data is stored in the memory unit 513 may vary depending on the various data requirements of the controller 510.

The hazard detector testing system 500 as shown in Figure 5 further comprises the user interface module 520 to allow a user to interact with the hazard detector testing system 500. The user interface module 520 may comprise a Ul data input/output unit 521 to facilitate entry of the input data into the hazard detector testing system 500. The Ul data input/output unit 521 may include a display screen and/or input devices (not shown) in the form of text buttons to allow user interaction and/or data input into the hazard detector testing system 500. In an example the display screen may be a touch sensitive screen. The input data may be, but is not limited to, model and/or make information relating to any specific hazard detector. The user interface module 520 may further comprise a processor 522 to receive and process data input by the user which may then be sent to the controller 510 from the user interface module 520, via the Ul data input/output module 521. In an example, the Ul data input/output unit 521 may comprise a transmitter to wirelessly send data from the user interface module 520 to a corresponding receiving device. In an example, the corresponding receiving device may be the controller 510. In an example, the data sent wirelessly from the user interface module 520 via the Ul data input/output unit 521 may be sent to a mobile communication device. In a further example, the data sent wirelessly from the user interface module 520 via the Ul data input/output unit 521 may be sent to a Fire Control Panel (FCP). In an example, the Ul data input/output unit 521 may comprise a receiver arrangement to receive data from an external device to the user interface module 520 wirelessly.

The hazard detector testing system 500 as shown in Figure 5 further comprises the first sensing arrangement 530. The first sensing arrangement 530 may comprise a sensor configured to detect the output signals from the hazard detector. In an example, the first sensing arrangement 530 may comprise at least one photosensitive element configured to detect visible light of various wavelengths. In another example, the first sensing arrangement 530 may comprise at least one infrared sensor configured to detect infrared signals produced by the hazard detector. In another example, the first sensing arrangement 530 may comprise at least one Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) reader configured to detect radio frequency signals transmitted by the hazard detector.

The first sensing arrangement 530 is not limited to the above mentioned sensing elements. The hazard detector that is being tested using the hazard detector testing system may comprise a plurality of signal transmitting elements to indicate that the hazard detector has entered an alarm state. Any sensing element, or combination of elements, which may be configured to receive the signals produced by the hazard detector may be implemented into the sensing arrangement 530.

The hazard detector testing system 500 as shown in Figure 5 further comprises the second sensing arrangement 540. In an example, the second sensing arrangement 540 may comprise at least one proximity sensor configured to detect the presence of nearby objects without any physical contact i.e. in a non-contact manner. The second sensing arrangement 540 may be configured to detect the distance from the hazard detector testing system 500 to the hazard detector which is being tested. The second sensing arrangement 540 may further be configured to send the detected distance to the controller 510, via the controller data input/output unit 511, as data which may be processed by the controller 510 and stored in the memory unit 513.

The hazard detector testing system 500 as shown in Figure 5 further comprises the stimulus generating arrangement 550. The stimulus generating arrangement 550 may be the same as the arrangement 150 of figure 1 and is configured to release a stimulus to activate an alarm state of a hazard detector. The stimulus may vary depending on the type of hazard detector that is being tested. In an example, the stimulus generator 550 may generate a smoke, heat or carbon monoxide (CO) stimulus if the hazard detector being tested was a smoke, heat or CO detector respectively. The stimulus generator 150 may be capable of generating one or more of the test stimuli to test a multi-hazard detector that detects for different types of hazard such as smoke, heat and CO detector.

The hazard detector testing system 500 as shown in Figure 5 further comprises a database 513a which comprises data relating to the model and/or make of hazard detectors to be used with the hazard detector testing system 500. In an example, the database 513a may be provided in a server remote from the location where the testing of the hazard detector is carried out. In an example, the server may be a part of a cloud computing network. In a further example, the database 513a may be located in the memory unit 513. The database 513a is not limited to being located in the remote server or the memory unit 513. The database 513a may be located in any location where data can be stored. The database 513a may send data to or receive data from the controller 510 via a wired or wireless connection.

Referring to Figure 6, there is shown a flow diagram of a method 600 of testing a hazard detector using the hazard detector testing system 500. The method starts with measuring 610 the distance between the hazard detector and the hazard detector testing system 500. In an example, the controller 510 receives data from the second sensing arrangement 540 and determines a measured distance between the hazard detector and the hazard detector testing system 500. In an example, measured distance may be saved into the memory unit 513 of the controller 510.

In block 620 of method 600, the test stimulus is generated via the stimulus generating arrangement 550. The test stimulus may be generated when the controller 510 determines that the hazard detector is in proximity to the hazard detector testing system 500 after processing, via the processor 512, data received from the second sensing arrangement 540. In an example, the controller 510 determines that the hazard detector is in proximity to the hazard detector testing system 500 after determining the measured distance.

Referring to Figure 7, there is shown a flow diagram of an example method 700 of generating the test stimulus. In block 710 of method 700, the controller 510 obtains predetermined distance data relating to the distance between the hazard detector and the hazard detector testing system 500 from the database 513a and stores the data within the memory unit 513. In an example, the database 513a may have predetermined data relating to the distance between the hazard detector and the hazard detector testing system 500 of multiple models and/or makes of hazard detectors. In a further example, the user may download data relating to the distance between the hazard detector and the hazard detector testing system 500 of specific models and/or makes of hazard detectors, which may then be stored within the database 513a. In a further example, where data relating to the distance between the hazard detector and the hazard detector testing system 500 of specific models and/or makes of hazard detectors is not available, the hazard detector testing system may create a new entry into the database 513a in the memory unit 513 of the controller 510, which may then be used for further tests on hazard detectors of the same make and/or model.

In block 720 of method 700, the controller 510 receives data from the sensing arrangement 540 and determines the measured distance between the hazard detector and the hazard detector testing system 500. In an example, measured distance may be saved into the memory unit 513 of the controller 510. In an example, the controller 510 may process the data via processor 512 to determine if the measured distance matches the obtained distance between the hazard detector and the hazard detector testing system 500.

In block 730 of method 700, the test stimulus is generated. The controller 510 may determine if the hazard detector is in proximity to the hazard detector testing system 500. If it is determined that the hazard detector is in proximity to the hazard detector testing system 500, the controller 510 may send an instruction to the stimulus generating arrangement 550 to generate the test stimulus and therefore initiate a test sequence to test the operation of the hazard detector.

In block 630 of method 600, the controller 510 determines a test result after the test stimulus has been generated. Referring to Figure 8, there is shown a flow diagram of a method 800 of determining the test result. In block 810 of the method 800, the controller 510 receives data from the first sensing arrangement 530 and the second sensing arrangement 540. The first sensing arrangement 530 may detect an alarm state signal output by the hazard detector as a response to the test stimulus. In an example, the alarm state of a hazard detector indicates that a stimulus has been detected by the hazard detector. In an example, the alarm state signal of the hazard detector may be a light signal. In a further example, the alarm state signal of the hazard detector may be an infrared signal. In a further example, the alarm state signal of the hazard detector may be a radio frequency signal. The hazard detector is not limited to producing the signals in the above mentioned configurations. The indication of alarm state may vary in signal type depending on the make and/or model of the hazard detector being tested. If the alarm state signal is detected by the first sensing arrangement 530, data relating to the alarm state signal may be sent to the controller 510 via the controller input/output unit 511. The controller 510 also obtains data relating to the measured distance between the hazard detector and the hazard detector testing system 500 from the memory unit 513. The controller 510 may determine if the distance between the hazard detector and the hazard detector testing system exceeds the measured distance by a predetermined threshold distance after the test stimulus is generated.

The next step in method 800 may be one of blocks 820a, 820b or 820c depending on the data received by the controller 510 from the first sensing arrangement 530 and the second sensing arrangement 540 and the controller selectively determines the result of the test on the hazard detector and the result may be aborted, successful or failed.

In block 820a of method 800, the controller 510 determines an aborted test after the test stimulus is generated. The controller 510 may receive data from the second sensing arrangement 540 relating to the distance between the hazard detector and the hazard detector testing system 500. The controller 510 may also obtain the measured distance data relating to the distance between the hazard detector and the hazard detector testing system 500 from memory unit 513. The controller 510 may then process the data via processor 512 and determine if the distance between the hazard detector and the hazard detector testing system 500 has exceeded the measured distance by more than the predetermined threshold amount. In an example, the predetermined threshold amount may be pre-programmed and/or set by the user. In a further example, the threshold amount may be 5-10% of the measured distance, however is not limited to this range, and may be any specified tolerance range. If the controller determines that the distance between the hazard detector and the hazard detector testing system 500 has exceeded the measured distance by more than the predetermined threshold amount, the controller 510 may abort the test. This may be achieved by sending instructions to the stimulus generating arrangement 550 to stop the test stimulus from being produced by the testing system.

In block 820b of method 800, the controller determines a successful test after the test stimulus is generated. The controller 510 may receive data from the first sensing arrangement 530 relating to the signal output by the hazard detector. The controller 510 may process the data via processor 512 and determine whether the alarm state has been activated. If the controller 510 identifies a component of the data received from the sensing arrangement 530 which relates to the alarm state data of the hazard detector, the controller 510 may then determine a successful test.

In block 820c of method 800, the controller determines a failed test after the test stimulus is generated. The controller 510 may receive data from the first sensing arrangement 530 relating to the signal output by the hazard detector. The controller 510 may process the data via processor 512 and determine whether the alarm state has been activated. The controller 510 may wait a predetermined period of time before determining that the hazard detector has not detected the test stimulus. In an example, the database 513a may have stored within it, data relating to the predetermined time for the specific make and/or model of the hazard detector. In another example, the predetermined time may be specified via the user interface module 520 before the test stimulus has been generated. In another example, the predetermined time may be up to 10-60 seconds after the generation of the test stimulus, or any other time range that is sufficient to allow the hazard detector to detect the presence of the test stimulus. If the controller 510 does not identify a component of the data received from the sensing arrangement 530 which relates to the alarm state data of the hazard detector after the predetermined period of time, the controller 510 may then determine a failed test.

In block 830 of method 800, the determination of the test result may be stored in the memory unit 513 of the controller 510. Alternatively or additionally, the controller 510 may output the determined test result to an external device via the controller data input/output unit 511. In an example, the external device may be the user interface module 520. In a further example, the external device may be a mobile communication device. The result of the determination may be sent to another device such as a fire control panel or other remote unit using a transmitter arrangement (not shown). Therefore, the result can be automatically logged. Related information such as time and date and information relating to the detector including location of the detector in a premises may be stored or communicated along with the result of the determination.

Referring to Figure 9, there is shown another example hazard detector testing system 900.

In this example, the hazard detector testing system 900 comprises a controller 910. The controller 910 may comprise a plurality of components, some of which are described below according to an example. The controller 910 may be a programmable logic device (PLD) or other computing device that can carry out instructions. The controller 910 may include multiple processing elements that are integrated in a single device as described in the example below or distributed across devices.

The controller 910 of the hazard detector testing system 900 may comprise a controller data input/output unit 911 to receive input data from external components including, but not limited to, a user interface module 920, a first sensing arrangement 930 and a second sensing arrangement 940. The controller data input/output unit 911 may also output data from the controller to other external components including, but not limited to, a stimulus generating arrangement 950. In an example, the controller data input/output unit 911 may comprise a transmitter to wirelessly send data from the controller 910 to a corresponding receiving device. In an example, the data sent wirelessly from the controller 910 via the controller data input/output unit 911 may be sent to a mobile communication device. In a further example, the data sent wirelessly from the controller 910 via the controller data input/output unit 911 may be sent to a Fire Control Panel (FCP). Hazard detection devices on which testing may be carried out by the hazard detector testing system 900 may be connected to the FCP, which is the central control point for the fire system in a building. In an example, the controller data input/output unit 911 may comprise a receiver arrangement to receive data from an external device to the controller 910 wirelessly.

The controller 910 of the hazard detector testing system 900 may further comprise a processor 912 to manage all the components within the controller 910, and process all data flow between the components within the controller 910.

The controller 910 of the hazard detector testing system 900 may further comprise a memory unit 513 to store any data or instructions which may need to be accessed at a later stage. The time extent to which the data is stored in the memory unit 913 may vary depending on the various data requirements of the controller 910.

The hazard detector testing system 900 as shown in Figure 9 further comprises the user interface module 920 to allow a user to interact with the hazard detector testing system 900. The user interface module 920 may comprise a Ul data input/output unit 921 to facilitate entry of the input data into the hazard detector testing system 900. The Ul data input/output unit 921 may include a display screen and/or input devices (not shown) in the form of text buttons to allow user interaction and/or data input into the hazard detector testing system 900. In an example the display screen may be a touch sensitive screen. The input data may be, but is not limited to, model and/or make information relating to any specific hazard detector. The user interface module 920 may further comprise a processor 922 to receive and process data input by the user which may then be sent to the controller 910 from the user interface module 920, via the Ul data input/output module 921. In an example, the Ul data input/output unit 921 may comprise a transmitter to wirelessly send data from the user interface module 920 to a corresponding receiving device. In an example, the corresponding receiving device may be the controller 910. In an example, the data sent wirelessly from the user interface module 920 via the Ul data input/output unit 921 may be sent to a mobile communication device. In a further example, the data sent wirelessly from the user interface module 920 via the Ul data input/output unit 921 may be sent to a Fire Control Panel (FCP). In an example, the Ul data input/output unit 921 may comprise a receiver arrangement to receive data from an external device to the user interface module 920 wirelessly.

The hazard detector testing system 900 as shown in Figure 9 further comprises the first sensing arrangement 930. The first sensing arrangement 930 may comprise a sensor configured to detect the output signals from the hazard detector. In an example, the first sensing arrangement 930 may comprise at least one photosensitive element configured to detect visible light of various wavelengths. In another example, the first sensing arrangement 930 may comprise at least one infrared sensor configured to detect infrared signals produced by the hazard detector. In another example, the first sensing arrangement 930 may comprise at least one Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) reader configured to detect radio frequency signals transmitted by the hazard detector. The first sensing arrangement 930 is not limited to the above mentioned sensing elements. The hazard detector that is being tested using the hazard detector testing system may comprise a plurality of signal transmitting elements to indicate that the hazard detector has entered an alarm state. Any sensing element, or combination of elements, which may be configured to receive the signals produced by the hazard detector may be implemented into the sensing arrangement 930.

The hazard detector testing system 900 as shown in Figure 9 further comprises the second sensing arrangement 940. In an example, the second sensing arrangement 940 may be a stability sensing arrangement, comprising at least one stability sensor configured to detect the stability of the hazard detector testing system whilst the hazard detector is being tested. In an example, the stability sensor may be a G-sensor (accelerometer) and/or altimeter configured to detect the stability of the hazard detector testing system. The second sensing arrangement 940 may further be configured to send data related to the detected stability to the controller 910, via the controller data input/output unit 911, as data which may be processed by the controller 910 and stored in the memory unit 913. Therefore, data can be received in relation to whether the tester is being held still during a test. If the testing system is being moved around too much relative to the detector, it may be decided that the test cannot be relied upon as other factors such as ambient signals may be affecting the output signals received by the first sensing arrangement 930 from the hazard detector.

The hazard detector testing system 900 as shown in Figure 9 further comprises the stimulus generating arrangement 950. The stimulus generating arrangement 950 may be the same as the arrangement 150 of figure 1, or arrangement 550 of figure 5, and is configured to release a test stimulus to test whether an alarm state of a hazard detector is activated. The stimulus may vary depending on the type of hazard detector that is being tested. In an example, the stimulus generator 950 may generate a smoke, heat or carbon monoxide (CO) stimulus if the hazard detector being tested was a smoke, heat or CO detector respectively. The stimulus generator 950 may be capable of generating one or more of the test stimuli to test a multi-hazard detector that detects for different types of hazard such as smoke, heat and CO detector.

The hazard detector testing system 900 as shown in Figure 9 further comprises a database 913a which comprises data relating to the model and/or make of hazard detectors to be used with the hazard detector testing system 900. In an example, the database 913a may be provided in a server remote from the location where the testing of the hazard detector is carried out. In an example, the server may be a part of a cloud computing network. In a further example, the database 913a may be located in the memory unit 913. The database 913a is not limited to being located in the remote server or the memory unit 913. The database 913a may be located in any location where data can be stored. The database 913a may send data to or receive data from the controller 910 via a wired or wireless connection.

Referring to Figure 10, there is shown a flow diagram of a method 1000 of testing a hazard detector using the hazard detector testing system 1000. The method 1000 starts with generating the test stimulus via the stimulus generating arrangement 950. The stimulus generating arrangement 950 generates a stimulus depending on the type of hazard detector. In response to detecting the stimulus, the hazard detector may enter the alarm state.

In block 1020 of the method 1000, the controller 910 receives data from the first sensing arrangement 930 and the second sensing arrangement 940 after the test stimulus has been generated. The first sensing arrangement 930 may detect an alarm state signal output by the hazard detector as a response to the test stimulus. In an example, the alarm state of a hazard detector indicates that a stimulus has been detected by the hazard detector. In an example, the alarm state signal of the hazard detector may be a light signal. In a further example, the alarm state signal of the hazard detector may be an infrared signal. In a further example, the alarm state signal of the hazard detector may be a radio frequency signal. The hazard detector is not limited to producing the signals in the above mentioned configurations. The indication of alarm state may vary in signal type depending on the make and/or model of the hazard detector being tested.

If the alarm state signal is detected by the first sensing arrangement 930, data relating to the alarm state signal may be sent to the controller 910 via the controller input/output unit 911. The controller 910 also obtains data relating to the stability of the hazard detector testing system 900 from the second sensing arrangement 940. The controller 910 may determine if there has been a change in the stability of the hazard detector testing system 900 after the test stimulus is generated. In an example, the change in stability may be determined if there has been a change in the orientation of the hazard detector testing system 900 after the test stimulus is generated.

The next step in method 1000 may be one of blocks 1030a, 1030b or 1030c depending on the data received by the controller 910 from the first sensing arrangement 930 and the second sensing arrangement 940 and the controller selectively determines the result of the test on the hazard detector and the result may be determined as an unstable, successful or failed test.

In block 1030a of method 1000, the controller 910 determines an unstable test after the test stimulus is generated. The controller 910 may receive data from the second sensing arrangement 940 relating to the stability of the hazard detector testing system 900 after the test stimulus has been generated. The controller 910 may then process the data via processor 912 and determine if the stability of the hazard detector testing system has changed by more than a predetermined threshold amount. In an example, the predetermined threshold amount may be pre-programmed and/or set by the user. In a further example, the threshold amount may be 5-10% of the measured distance, however is not limited to this range, and may be any specified tolerance range. If the controller determines that the hazard detector testing system 900 is not been stable after the test stimulus is generated, the controller 910 may determine that the test is an unstable test. This may be achieved by sending instructions to the stimulus generating arrangement 950 to stop the test stimulus from being produced by the testing system.

In block 1030b of method 1000, the controller determines a successful test after the test stimulus is generated. The controller 910 may receive data from the first sensing arrangement 930 relating to the signal output by the hazard detector. The controller 910 may process the data via processor 912 and determine whether the alarm state has been activated. If the controller 910 identifies a component of the data received from the sensing arrangement 930 which relates to the alarm state data of the hazard detector, the controller 910 may then determine a successful test.

In block 1030c of method 1000, the controller determines a failed test after the test stimulus is generated. The controller 910 may receive data from the first sensing arrangement 930 relating to the signal output by the hazard detector. The controller 910 may process the data via processor 912 and determine whether the alarm state has been activated. The controller 910 may wait a predetermined period of time before determining that the hazard detector has not detected the test stimulus. In an example, the database 913a may have stored within it, data relating to the predetermined time for the specific make and/or model of the hazard detector. In another example, the predetermined time may be specified via the user interface module 920 before the test stimulus has been generated. In another example, the predetermined time may be up to 10-60 seconds after the generation of the test stimulus, or any other time range that is sufficient to allow the hazard detector to detect the presence of the test stimulus. If the controller 910 does not identify a component of the data received from the sensing arrangement 930 which relates to the alarm state data of the hazard detector after the predetermined period of time, the controller 910 may then determine a failed test.

In block 1040 of method 1000, the determination of the test result may be stored in the memory unit 913 of the controller 910. Alternatively or additionally, the controller 910 may output the determined test result to an external device via the controller data input/output unit 911. In an example, the external device may be the user interface module 920. In a further example, the external device may be a mobile communication device. The result of the determination may be sent to another device such as a fire control panel or other remote unit using a transmitter arrangement (not shown). Therefore, the result can be automatically logged. Related information such as time and date and information relating to the detector including location of the detector in a premises may be stored or communicated along with the result of the determination.

An example hazard detector testing system, which combines aspects of the hazard detector testing system 100 and hazard detector testing system 500, is discussed below. In particular, an example system that combine ambient electromagnetic radiation with the proximity sensing. In another example (not shown), the hazard detector system 900 may be provided in addition or instead of hazard detector testing system 500 to provide stability sensing in addition to or instead of proximity sensing.

The example hazard detector testing system may comprise a controller such as controller 110 or 510 as shown in Figures 1 and 5. In an example, the example hazard detector testing system may comprise a memory module similar to the memory modules 113 or 513. In an example, the example hazard detector testing system may comprise a database similar to the database 113a or 513a. The database may comprise data relating to the electromagnetic radiation produced by the hazard detector during normal and alarm state. The database may further comprise data relating to the distance between the hazard detector and the example hazard detector testing system.

The example hazard detector testing system may comprise a user interface module such as user interface module 120 or 520 as shown in Figures 1 and 5.

The example hazard detector testing system may comprise a stimulus generating arrangement such as stimulus generating arrangement 150 or 550 as shown in Figures 1 and 5.

The example hazard detector testing system may comprise a first sensing arrangement similar to the sensing arrangement 130 as shown in Figure 1. The sensing arrangement of the example hazard detector testing system is configured to detect visible light. The visible light detected may be the electromagnetic radiation produced by the example hazard detector in the normal and alarm state, and the ambient electromagnetic radiation around the hazard detector.

The example hazard detector testing system may comprise a second sensing arrangement similar to the second sensing arrangement 540 as shown in Figure 5. The second sensing arrangement of the example hazard detector testing system is configured to measure the distance between the hazard detector and the example hazard detector testing system and can act as a proximity sensor.

The example hazard detector testing system performs a method of determining if the alarm state of the hazard detector has entered the alarm state as a response to the test stimulus being generated, similar to the method 300. In addition to performing this method, the example hazard detector also determines whether the distance between the hazard detector and the example hazard detector testing system has increased by more than a predetermined threshold amount after the test stimulus is generated.

The controller of the example hazard detector may determine an aborted test if the distance between the hazard detector and the example hazard detector testing system has exceeded a measured distance by more than a predetermined threshold distance. In this instance, the controller may determine that the example hazard detector testing system has been moved after the test stimulus is generated. The controller may confirm this is the case by determining if an increased level of ambient light is detected. The controller may then instruct the stimulus generating arrangement of the example hazard testing system to stop generating the test stimulus, and indicate that the test has been aborted. The controller of the example hazard detector may also determine a successful test if the alarm state of the hazard detector is detected after the stimulus has been generated; or the controller of the example hazard detector may determine a failed test if the alarm state of the hazard detector is not detected after the stimulus has been generated.

Referring to Figure 11, there is shown a hazard detector testing apparatus 1100. The hazard detector testing apparatus 1100 comprises dispenser 1110 that includes an elongate pole 1111 that may be attachable to the dispenser to allow the test to be carried out on a hazard detector 1112 that may be located on the ceiling of an environment. In an example, the dispenser 1110 is formed an open topped housing 1113 including a bottom and sidewall forming a cavity to receive a hazard detector 1112. The open topped housing 1113 may be transparent. The hazard detector 1112 may comprise a light emitting device 1114 such as a light emitting diode which emits, for example, an LED light signal when in an alarm state. In one example, this may be a particular colour light signal such as a red signal. In addition or alternatively, the detector 1112 may comprise another alert condition indicator. In an example, the hazard detector testing system 100, the hazard detector testing system 500, or the hazard detector testing system 900 is located within the cavity and attached to the open topped housing 1113 to enable a hazard alert condition to be automatically detected as described above in relation to system 100, 500 or 900. The signal detection sensing arrangement of the system 100, 500 or 900 may comprise a plurality of photosensitive elements positioned at various locations in the open topped housing 1113 to automatically detect alert signals output from a wide variety of hazard detectors. A series of lenses may be provided as part of the first sensing arrangement to increase the viewing area of the photosensitive elements.

In addition to the examples described in detail above, the skilled person will recognize that various features described herein can be modified and/or combined with additional features, and the resulting additional examples can be implemented without departing from the scope of the system of the present disclosure, as this specification merely sets forth some of the many possible example configurations and implementations for the claimed solution.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A hazard detector testing system comprising: a sensing arrangement configured to detect electromagnetic radiation produced by a hazard detector, and to detect ambient electromagnetic radiation; a stimulus generating arrangement configured to produce a test stimulus to test the hazard detector, wherein the test stimulus is to activate an alarm state of the hazard detector; and a controller configured to determine whether the hazard detector has entered the alarm state based on the electromagnetic radiation and ambient electromagnetic radiation detected by the sensing arrangement.
2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to distinguish between the electromagnetic radiation produced by the hazard detector, and the ambient electromagnetic radiation.
3. The system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the controller is further configured to distinguish between a normal state of the hazard detector and the alarm state of the hazard detector.
4. The system according to claim 3, wherein the controller is further configured to determine that the hazard detector is in the normal state when the hazard detector produces the electromagnetic radiation periodically, and is configured to determine that the hazard detector is in the alarm state when the hazard detector produces the electromagnetic radiation continuously.
5. The system according to claim 3, wherein the controller is further configured to determine that the hazard detector is in the normal state when the hazard detector produces the electromagnetic radiation periodically, and is configured to determine that the hazard detector is in the alarm state when the hazard detector produces the electromagnetic radiation at a different periodicity to when the hazard detector is in the normal state.
6. The system according to claim 4, wherein the controller is further configured to determine that the ambient electromagnetic radiation comprises the electromagnetic radiation produced in the normal state of the hazard detector.
7. The system according to claim 4, wherein the controller is further configured to determine a baseline electromagnetic radiation which combines the electromagnetic radiation produced by the hazard detector during normal state and the ambient electromagnetic radiation.
8. The system according to any preceding claim, wherein the electromagnetic radiation is visible light of a first predetermined wavelength or wavelength range.
9. The system according to any preceding claim, wherein the ambient electromagnetic radiation is ambient visible light.
10. The system according to claim 1, wherein the hazard detector testing system further comprises a transmitter arrangement configured to send data based at least in part on the determination made by the controller.
11. The system according to claim 1, wherein the hazard detector testing system further comprises a second sensing arrangement configured to measure the distance between the testing system and the hazard detector.
12. The system according to claim 11, wherein the second sensing arrangement comprises a proximity sensor and/or a time-of-flight sensor.
13 A method of testing a hazard detector, the method comprising: obtaining data relating to electromagnetic radiation produced by the hazard detector; detecting ambient electromagnetic radiation; generating a test stimulus, wherein the test stimulus is to activate an alarm state of the hazard detector; and determining whether the hazard detector has entered the alarm state based on the electromagnetic radiation produced by a hazard detector and the detected ambient electromagnetic radiation.
14. The method according to claim 13, wherein the electromagnetic radiation produced by the hazard detector is distinguished from the ambient electromagnetic radiation.
15. The method according to any of claims 13 or 14, wherein the electromagnetic radiation produced by the hazard detector is produced periodically in a normal state of the hazard detector, and wherein the electromagnetic radiation produced by a hazard detector is produced continuously in the alarm state of the hazard detector.
16. The method according to any of claims 13 or 14, wherein the electromagnetic radiation produced by the hazard detector is produced periodically in a normal state of the hazard detector, and wherein the electromagnetic radiation produced by a hazard detector is produced at a different periodicity to when the hazard detector is in the normal state in the alarm state of the hazard detector.
17. The method according to claim 15, wherein the detected ambient electromagnetic radiation comprises the electromagnetic radiation produced in the normal state of the hazard detector.
18. The method according to any of claims 13 to 17, wherein the detected ambient electromagnetic radiation is recorded as a baseline electromagnetic radiation.
19. The method according to any of claims 13 to 18, wherein determining whether the hazard detector has entered the alarm state comprises: determining a successful test when electromagnetic radiation produced by the hazard detector in the alarm state is detected; or determining a failed test, when electromagnetic radiation from the hazard detector is not detected;
20. The method according to claim 18, wherein determining whether the hazard detector has entered the alarm state further comprises distinguishing the electromagnetic radiation produced by the hazard detector when in the alarm state from the recorded baseline electromagnetic radiation.
21. The method according to any of claims 13 to 20, wherein the electromagnetic radiation is visible light of a first predetermined wavelength or wavelength range.
22. The method according to any of claims 13 to 21, wherein the ambient electromagnetic radiation is ambient visible light.
23. The method according to any of claims 13 to 19, further comprising outputting data based at least in part on the determination of whether the hazard detector has entered the alarm state.
24. The method according to any of claims 13 to 23, further comprising measuring the distance between the testing system and the hazard detector.
25. The method according to claim 24, wherein the determination of whether the hazard detector has entered the alarm state is stopped if the distance between the testing system and the hazard detector exceeds a threshold distance.
26 A hazard detector testing system comprising: a first sensing arrangement configured to detect a signal from a hazard detector; a second sensing arrangement configured to measure the distance between the hazard detector testing system and the hazard detector; a stimulus generating arrangement configured to produce a test stimulus to test the hazard detector, wherein the test stimulus is to activate an alarm state of the hazard detector; and a controller configured to determine a test result based on whether the hazard detector has entered the alarm state based on the signal detected by the first sensing arrangement and the measured distance by the second sensing arrangement.
27. The system according to claim 26, wherein the controller is further configured to determine that the hazard detector is in the alarm state when an alarm state signal is detected
28. The system according to claim 26, wherein the hazard detector testing system further comprises a transmitter arrangement configured to send data based at least in part on the determination made by the controller.
29. The system according to any of claims 26 to 28, wherein the second sensing arrangement comprises a first proximity sensor and/or a time-of-flight sensor.
30. A method of testing a hazard detector, the method comprising: measuring the distance between a hazard detector and the hazard detector testing system; generating a test stimulus, wherein the test stimulus is to activate an alarm state of the hazard detector; determining a test result based on whether the hazard detector has entered the alarm state and the measured distance between the hazard detector and the hazard detector testing system.
31. The method according to claim 30, wherein the measured distance between the hazard detector and the hazard detector testing system is stored in a memory unit.
32. The method according to claim 30 or 31, wherein generating the test stimulus comprises determining whether the hazard detector is in proximity to the hazard detector testing system.
33. The method according to claim 30,31, or 32, wherein generating the test stimulus comprises: obtaining a predetermined distance between the hazard detector and the hazard detector testing system; and generating the test stimulus if the measured distance matches the obtained predetermined distance.
34. The method according to claim 33, wherein obtaining the predetermined distance between the hazard detector and the hazard detector testing system comprises retrieving a predetermined distance from the memory unit.
35. The method according to any of claims 30 to 34, wherein it is determined that the hazard detector is in the alarm state when alarm state signal data is detected by the controller.
36. The method according to any of claims 30 to 35, wherein determining the test result comprises: determining an aborted test, wherein the distance between the hazard detector and the hazard detector testing system is determined to exceed the measured distance from the hazard detector by a predetermined threshold distance after the test stimulus is generated.determining a successful test when an alarm state signal is detected by the controller after the test stimulus is generated, or determining a failed test when the alarm state signal is not detected by the controller after the test stimulus is generated.
37. The method according to any of claims 30 to 36, wherein the signal produced by the hazard detector is any of a visible light signal, infrared signal or radio frequency signal.
38. The method according to any of claims 30 to 37, further comprising outputting data based at least in part on the determination of whether the hazard detector has entered the alarm state.
39 A hazard detector testing system comprising: a first sensing arrangement configured to detect a signal from a hazard detector; a second sensing arrangement configured to detect stability; a stimulus generating arrangement configured to produce a test stimulus to test the hazard detector, wherein the test stimulus is to activate an alarm state of the hazard detector; and a controller configured to determine a test result based on whether the hazard detector has entered the alarm state based on the signal detected by the first sensing arrangement and the detected stability of the second sensing arrangement.
40. The system according to claim 39, wherein the controller is further configured to 25 determine that the hazard detector is in the alarm state when an alarm state signal is detected
41. The system according to claim 39 or 40, wherein the hazard detector testing system further comprises a transmitter arrangement configured to send data based at least in part on the determination made by the controller.
42. The system according to any of claims 39 to 41, wherein the second sensing arrangement comprises a stability sensor.
43. The system according to claim 42, wherein the stability sensor is a G-sensor and/or an altimeter.
44. A method of testing a hazard detector, the method comprising: generating a test stimulus, wherein the test stimulus is to activate an alarm state of the hazard detector; determining a test result based on whether the hazard detector has entered the alarm state and a detected stability of the hazard detector testing system.
45. The method according to claim 44, wherein the detected stability is stored in a memory unit.
46. The method according to claim 44 or 45, wherein it is determined that the hazard detector is in the alarm state when alarm state signal data is detected by a controller.
47. The method according to any of claims 44 to 46, wherein determining the test result comprises: determining an unstable test, wherein the stability of the hazard detector testing system is determined to have changed by more than a predetermined threshold amount.determining a successful test when an alarm state signal is detected by the controller after the test stimulus is generated; or determining a failed test when the alarm state signal is not detected by the controller after the test stimulus is generated.
48. The method according to any of claims 44 to 47, wherein the signal produced by the hazard detector is any of a visible light signal, infrared signal or radio frequency signal.
49. The method according to any of claims 44 to 48, further comprising outputting data based at least in part on the determination of whether the hazard detector has entered the alarm state.
A system for testing a hazard detector comprising: a dispenser comprising an elongate pole, the dispenser further comprising the hazard detector testing system of any of claims 1 to 12 or 26 to 30 or 39 to 43
51. The system according to claim 50, wherein the testing system is in the form of a module received in the dispenser.
52. The system of claim 50 or 51, wherein the dispenser comprises an open-topped housing including a bottom and sidewall forming a cavity for receiving the hazard detector.
53 A method for calibrating a hazard detector testing system, the method comprising: determining a baseline electromagnetic radiation; generating a test stimulus, wherein the test stimulus is to activate an alarm state of a hazard detector; detecting whether the hazard detector has entered the alarm state based on a change in electromagnetic radiation between ambient electromagnetic radiation and the baseline electromagnetic radiation; and storing the detected change in electromagnetic radiation in a memory unit.
54. The method according to claim 53, wherein determining the baseline electromagnetic radiation comprises detecting ambient electromagnetic radiation and storing detected electromagnetic radiation as a baseline radiation in a memory unit.
55. The method according to claim 54, wherein detecting the ambient electromagnetic radiation comprises positioning the hazard detector testing system over the hazard detector for a specified period of time.
56. The method according to claim 53, 54 or 55, wherein the ambient electromagnetic radiation comprises the electromagnetic radiation produced in the normal state of the hazard detector.
57. The method according to any of claims 53 to 56, wherein detecting a change in electromagnetic radiation includes detecting whether the ambient electromagnetic radiation has varied over a predetermined threshold value compared to the baseline electromagnetic radiation.
58. The method according to any of claims 53 to 57, wherein the detected change in electromagnetic radiation is stored in the memory unit as electromagnetic radiation produced by the hazard detector during the alarm state.