WO2020051645A1 - Smoke alarm system - Google Patents

Smoke alarm system Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2020051645A1
WO2020051645A1 PCT/AU2019/050983 AU2019050983W WO2020051645A1 WO 2020051645 A1 WO2020051645 A1 WO 2020051645A1 AU 2019050983 W AU2019050983 W AU 2019050983W WO 2020051645 A1 WO2020051645 A1 WO 2020051645A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
smoke
relay
gas valve
detecting unit
communication module
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/AU2019/050983
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Joshua Hull
Kevin Hull
Original Assignee
HULL Joshua
Kevin Hull
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from AU2018903471A external-priority patent/AU2018903471A0/en
Application filed by HULL Joshua, Kevin Hull filed Critical HULL Joshua
Priority to AU2019338430A priority Critical patent/AU2019338430A1/en
Publication of WO2020051645A1 publication Critical patent/WO2020051645A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G08—SIGNALLING
    • G08B—SIGNALLING OR CALLING SYSTEMS; ORDER TELEGRAPHS; ALARM SYSTEMS
    • G08B17/00—Fire alarms; Alarms responsive to explosion
    • G08B17/10—Actuation by presence of smoke or gases, e.g. automatic alarm devices for analysing flowing fluid materials by the use of optical means
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H71/00—Details of the protective switches or relays covered by groups H01H73/00 - H01H83/00
    • H01H71/10—Operating or release mechanisms
    • H01H71/1009—Interconnected mechanisms
    • H01H71/1018—Interconnected mechanisms with only external interconnections
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G08—SIGNALLING
    • G08B—SIGNALLING OR CALLING SYSTEMS; ORDER TELEGRAPHS; ALARM SYSTEMS
    • G08B17/00—Fire alarms; Alarms responsive to explosion
    • G08B17/10—Actuation by presence of smoke or gases, e.g. automatic alarm devices for analysing flowing fluid materials by the use of optical means
    • G08B17/103—Actuation by presence of smoke or gases, e.g. automatic alarm devices for analysing flowing fluid materials by the use of optical means using a light emitting and receiving device
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H71/00—Details of the protective switches or relays covered by groups H01H73/00 - H01H83/00
    • H01H71/10—Operating or release mechanisms
    • H01H71/12—Automatic release mechanisms with or without manual release
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02H—EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS
    • H02H1/00—Details of emergency protective circuit arrangements
    • H02H1/0007—Details of emergency protective circuit arrangements concerning the detecting means
    • H02H1/003—Fault detection by injection of an auxiliary voltage
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
    • H02H—EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENTS
    • H02H3/00—Emergency protective circuit arrangements for automatic disconnection directly responsive to an undesired change from normal electric working condition with or without subsequent reconnection ; integrated protection
    • H02H3/02—Details
    • H02H3/021—Details concerning the disconnection itself, e.g. at a particular instant, particularly at zero value of current, disconnection in a predetermined order
    • H02H3/023—Details concerning the disconnection itself, e.g. at a particular instant, particularly at zero value of current, disconnection in a predetermined order by short-circuiting
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
    • H04W—WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS
    • H04W88/00—Devices specially adapted for wireless communication networks, e.g. terminals, base stations or access point devices
    • H04W88/02—Terminal devices
    • H04W88/04—Terminal devices adapted for relaying to or from another terminal or user
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G08—SIGNALLING
    • G08B—SIGNALLING OR CALLING SYSTEMS; ORDER TELEGRAPHS; ALARM SYSTEMS
    • G08B25/00—Alarm systems in which the location of the alarm condition is signalled to a central station, e.g. fire or police telegraphic systems
    • G08B25/001—Alarm cancelling procedures or alarm forwarding decisions, e.g. based on absence of alarm confirmation
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G08—SIGNALLING
    • G08B—SIGNALLING OR CALLING SYSTEMS; ORDER TELEGRAPHS; ALARM SYSTEMS
    • G08B25/00—Alarm systems in which the location of the alarm condition is signalled to a central station, e.g. fire or police telegraphic systems
    • G08B25/01—Alarm systems in which the location of the alarm condition is signalled to a central station, e.g. fire or police telegraphic systems characterised by the transmission medium
    • G08B25/08—Alarm systems in which the location of the alarm condition is signalled to a central station, e.g. fire or police telegraphic systems characterised by the transmission medium using communication transmission lines
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G08—SIGNALLING
    • G08B—SIGNALLING OR CALLING SYSTEMS; ORDER TELEGRAPHS; ALARM SYSTEMS
    • G08B25/00—Alarm systems in which the location of the alarm condition is signalled to a central station, e.g. fire or police telegraphic systems
    • G08B25/01—Alarm systems in which the location of the alarm condition is signalled to a central station, e.g. fire or police telegraphic systems characterised by the transmission medium
    • G08B25/10—Alarm systems in which the location of the alarm condition is signalled to a central station, e.g. fire or police telegraphic systems characterised by the transmission medium using wireless transmission systems

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a smoke alarm system.
  • the present invention has particular but not exclusive application for a smoke alarm system for buildings. Reference will be made in the specification to the use of a relay for a smoke alarm system. The patent specification describes this use but it is by way of example only and the invention is not limited to this use.
  • smoke alarms are mandatory in residential buildings. It has been found that smoke alarms can provide an early warning to residents. Such an early warning can mean the difference between life and death.
  • a problem with smoke alarms is that they can be ineffective if nobody is present to hear the alarm.
  • Some prior art smoke alarms include communication modules to automatically call emergency services.
  • the present invention broadly resides in a smoke alarm system including
  • a relay to control electrical power supply to all or part of a switchboard located remote to the smoke detecting unit
  • the smoke detecting unit when the smoke detecting unit detects smoke, the smoke detecting unit communicates with the relay to cut the electrical power supply through the relay.
  • the smoke detecting unit preferably communicates wirelessly with the relay. Alternatively or additionally, the smoke detecting unit communicates with the relay via an electrical cable.
  • the smoke detecting unit is preferably powered by a battery.
  • the smoke detecting unit is connected to mains electricity. More preferably the smoke detecting unit is adapted to be powered by mains power and use battery power as a backup if mains power is lost.
  • the smoke detecting unit preferably includes a speaker to emit an audible alarm signal.
  • the smoke detecting unit is preferably adapted to communicate to other nearby smoke detecting units.
  • the smoke detecting units are adapted to communicate to each other.
  • the smoke detecting units are adapted to communicate to each other and emit an audible alarm signal if one of the smoke detecting units detects smoke.
  • the smoke detecting units are adapted to communicate to each other and actuate a visual alarm if one of the smoke detecting units detects smoke.
  • the smoke detecting unit includes a communication module to communicate to other devices.
  • detecting smoke is a reference to detecting a predefined threshold amount of smoke.
  • the smoke detecting unit includes a photoelectric smoke detecting sensor.
  • the smoke detecting unit includes an ionisation smoke detecting sensor.
  • the relay controls power to part of the switchboard.
  • electrical power can be maintained to essential items (such as emergency lighting, light circuits, and life support machinery) when smoke is detected.
  • the relay controls power to all of the switchboard.
  • the relay can also be referred to as a switch.
  • the relay preferably includes a communication module.
  • the communication module preferably enables the relay to receive signals from the smoke detecting unit wirelessly and/or via an electric cable.
  • the relay is preferably adapted to detect an earth leakage and cut power through the relay if an earth leakage is detected.
  • the relay is preferably adapted to detect a power surge and cut power through the relay if a power surge is detected.
  • the relay can be installed in the switchboard.
  • the relay is a main switch.
  • the relay is installed in the switchboard as a main switch.
  • the relay can replace an existing main switch in a switchboard.
  • the relay can replace a circuit breaker in a switchboard.
  • the relay is installed as a circuit breaker in the switchboard.
  • the relay is adapted to control the supply of single phase electric power. In another embodiment, the relay is adapted to control the supply of two phase electric power. In a further embodiment, the relay is adapted to control the supply of three phase electric power.
  • the smoke alarm system is adapted to communicate with a mobile device such as a mobile phone.
  • the smoke alarm system can issue an alarm on the mobile device if smoke is detected.
  • the smoke alarm system can be reset (after issuing an alarm) by the mobile device.
  • the smoke detecting unit communicates with the mobile device.
  • the smoke alarm system communicates wirelessly with the mobile device using a wireless communication method such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
  • the smoke alarm system communicates with the mobile device via a cellular network.
  • the smoke alarm system communicates with the mobile device via a landline.
  • the smoke alarm system includes a gas valve.
  • the smoke detecting unit detects smoke
  • the smoke detecting unit communicates with the gas valve to stop the flow of gas through the gas valve.
  • the gas valve is actuated by a solenoid.
  • the relay isolates power to the solenoid to stop the flow of gas through the gas valve.
  • the smoke detecting unit preferably communicates wirelessly with the gas valve. Alternatively or additionally, the smoke detecting unit communicates with the gas valve via an electrical cable.
  • the smoke detecting unit include a gas sensor.
  • the smoke alarm unit communicates with the gas valve to stop the flow of gas through the gas valve.
  • the smoke alarm unit communicates with the relay to cut the electrical power supply through the relay.
  • the smoke alarm unit activates a ventilation device.
  • the ventilation device is a ventilation fan.
  • the gas sensor is a carbon monoxide sensor.
  • the smoke detecting unit is adapted to emit an audible alarm signal if a predefined level of a predefined gas is detected.
  • the present invention broadly resides in a smoke alarm system including
  • a relay to control electrical power supply to all or part of a switchboard located remote to a smoke detecting unit
  • the smoke detecting unit when the smoke detecting unit detects smoke, the smoke detecting unit communicates with the relay to cut the electrical power supply through the relay.
  • the present invention broadly resides in a smoke alarm system including
  • a relay to control electrical power supply to all or part of a switchboard located remote to the smoke detecting unit
  • the smoke detecting unit when the smoke detecting unit detects smoke, the smoke detecting unit communicates with the relay to cut the electrical power supply through the relay, and wherein when the smoke detecting unit detects smoke, the smoke detecting unit communicates with the gas valve to stop gas flowing through the gas valve.
  • the smoke detecting unit includes a communication module.
  • the relay includes a communication module.
  • the gas valve includes a communication module.
  • the smoke detecting unit communication module is adapted to communicate with the relay communication module and the gas valve communication module.
  • the communication modules are adapted to communicate to each other wirelessly. Alternatively or additionally, the communication modules are adapted to communicate to each other via one or more electrical cables.
  • the present invention broadly resides in a relay for a smoke alarm system the relay including
  • a communication module to communicate with one or more smoke detecting units
  • the relay cuts electrical power supply through the relay.
  • the communication module communicates with the one or more smoke detecting units wirelessly.
  • the communication module communicates with the one or more smoke detecting units via one or more electric cables.
  • the communication module emulates a smoke detecting unit.
  • the relay will appear as a smoke detecting unit from the perspective of a smoke detecting unit.
  • the present invention broadly resides in a gas valve for a smoke alarm system the gas valve including
  • a communication module to communicate with one or more smoke detecting units
  • the gas valve stops gas flowing through the gas valve.
  • the gas valve is actuated by a solenoid.
  • the gas valve communication module communicates with the one or more smoke detecting units wirelessly.
  • the gas valve communication module communicates with the one or more smoke detecting units via one or more electric cables.
  • the gas valve communication module emulates a smoke detecting unit.
  • the gas valve will appear as a smoke detecting unit from the perspective of a smoke detecting unit.
  • the present invention broadly resides in a gas valve for a smoke alarm system the gas valve including a communication module to communicate with a relay as described in this specification,
  • the gas valve stops gas flowing through the gas valve.
  • the gas valve is actuated by a solenoid.
  • the gas valve communication module communicates with the relay wirelessly.
  • the gas valve communication module communicates with the relay via one or more electric cables.
  • Figure 1 is a schematic view of a smoke alarm system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 2 is a schematic view of the smoke alarm system of Figure 1 including a gas valve
  • Figure 3 is a schematic view of a smoke alarm system according to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 4 is a schematic view of the smoke alarm system of Figure 3 including a gas valve
  • Figure 5 is a side view of a relay in the form of circuit breaker according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 6 is a schematic view of a relay according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 7 is a schematic view of a gas valve according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
  • the smoke alarm system 10 has a smoke detecting unit 12.
  • the smoke detecting unit 12 includes a photoelectric smoke detecting sensor to detect a predefined amount of smoke (threshold amount).
  • the smoke detecting unit 12 is powered by mains power (not shown) and includes a battery (not shown) as a backup if mains power is lost.
  • the smoke detecting unit 12 includes a speaker to sound an audible alarm if a predefined amount of smoke is detected.
  • the smoke detecting unit 12 includes a communication module to communicate wirelessly with a relay 14 which supplies electrical power to a switchboard 16. In this manner, if a predefined amount of smoke is detected, the smoke detecting unit sends a signal, and the relay 14 receives the signal and cuts electrical power to designated circuits of the electrical installation.
  • the relay 14 includes a relay communication module to receive wireless signals from the communication module of the smoke detecting unit 12.
  • the smoke detecting unit 12 communicates wirelessly with one or more relays in the form of circuit breakers 18,20,22, instead of the relay 14.
  • electrical power can be cut selectively, i.e. to only those circuit breakers 18,20,22 that have a communication module that communicates with the smoke detecting unit 12.
  • power can be cut to non-essential services and power points, leaving power connected for lighting and other essential services.
  • a benefit of cutting electrical power is that electrical equipment that could potentially cause a fire can be turned off when smoke is first detected, in this manner, power can potentially be cut while the equipment or nearby items are smouldering but have not caught fire.
  • the smoke detecting unit 12 is interconnectable to other smoke detecting units (not shown). In this manner, if one of the smoke detecting units detects smoke, all of the smoke detecting units sound an alarm.
  • the gas valve 30 includes a gas valve communication module to receive wireless signals from the communication module of the smoke detecting unit 12.
  • the gas valve 30 includes a solenoid to control the state of the gas valve 30 (i.e. open or shut). If a predefined amount of smoke is detected, the smoke detecting unit 12 sends a signal, and the gas valve communication module receives the signal and the gas valve 30 changes state to shut to stop gas from flowing through the gas valve 30.
  • the gas valve communication module is adapted to receive wireless signals from the relay communication module of the relay 14. If a predefined amount of smoke is detected by a smoke detecting unit 12, the relay communication module of the relay 14 sends a signal, and the gas valve communication module receives the signal and the gas valve 30 changes state to shut to stop gas from flowing through the gas valve 30.
  • Smoke alarm system 110 is similar to smoke alarm system 10 shown in Figure 1.
  • the difference between smoke alarm system 110 and smoke alarm system 10 is that in smoke alarm system 10, a smoke detecting unit 112 communicates with a relay 114 which supplies electrical power to a switchboard 116 via an electrical cable 124 instead of wirelessly.
  • the smoke detecting unit 112 communicates via the electrical cable with one or more relays in the form of circuit breakers 118, 120,122, instead of the relay 114.
  • the gas valve 130 includes a gas valve communication module to receive signals from the communication module of the smoke detecting unit 12 via electrical cables 124 and 126.
  • the gas valve 130 includes a solenoid to control the state of the gas valve 130 (i.e. open or shut). If a predefined amount of smoke is detected, the smoke detecting unit 112 sends a signal, and the gas valve communication module receives the signal and the gas valve 130 changes state to shut to stop gas from flowing through the gas valve 130.
  • the gas valve communication module is adapted to receive signals from the relay communication module of the relay 114 via electrical cables 124 and 126.
  • a smoke alarm system can communicate via both one or more electrical cables and wirelessly.
  • the circuit breaker 200 includes a communication module to communicate with one or more smoke detecting units (not shown) wirelessly and/or via one or more electrical cables. In this manner relays in the form of circuit breakers can replace existing circuit breakers in switchboards.
  • the relay 220 for a smoke alarm system (not shown).
  • the relay 220 includes a communication module to communicate with one or more smoke detecting units (not shown) wirelessly and/or via one or more electrical cables 222.
  • the relay 220 is located between a main switch 218 and a plurality of circuit breakers (not shown) connected to connections 230,232,234,236,238,240.
  • the relay 220 When the communication module of the relay 220 receives a signal from one or more smoke detecting units to indicate that smoke has been detected, the relay 220 cuts electrical power supply to selected ones of the connections 230,232,234,236,238,240. For example, power can be maintained to connections 230 and 232 which supply power to essential equipment, while power is cut to connections 234,236,238 and 240, which supply power to non-essential equipment.
  • the communication module of the relay 220 emulates a smoke detecting unit. In this manner the relay 220 will appear as a smoke detecting unit from the perspective of a smoke detecting unit.
  • the relay is used as a circuit breaker instead of a main switch to a switchboard. In this manner electrical power can be cut selectively.
  • the gas valve 300 includes a communication module to communicate with one or more smoke detecting units (not shown) wirelessly and/or via one or more electrical cables and/or to communicate with a relay (not shown) wirelessly and/or via one or more electrical cables.
  • the gas valve 300 stops gas flowing through the gas valve 300.
  • the communication module of the gas valve 300 emulates a smoke detecting unit. In this manner the gas valve 300 will appear as a smoke detecting unit from the perspective of a smoke detecting unit.
  • An advantage of the preferred embodiment of the smoke alarm system includes the ability to cut power to potential fire causing equipment. Another advantage of the preferred embodiment of the smoke alarm system includes the ability to turn off a supply of gas to a building. A further advantage of the preferred embodiment of the smoke alarm system includes selectively cutting power to non- essential services.

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  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Analytical Chemistry (AREA)
  • Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
  • Emergency Management (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Computer Networks & Wireless Communication (AREA)
  • Signal Processing (AREA)
  • Fire Alarms (AREA)

Abstract

A smoke alarm system including a smoke detecting unit, a relay to control electrical power supply to all or part of a switchboard located remote to the smoke detecting unit, wherein when the smoke detecting unit detects smoke, the smoke detecting unit communicates with the relay to cut the electrical power supply through the relay.

Description

SMOKE ALARM SYSTEM
FIELD OF INVENTION
The present invention relates to a smoke alarm system. The present invention has particular but not exclusive application for a smoke alarm system for buildings. Reference will be made in the specification to the use of a relay for a smoke alarm system. The patent specification describes this use but it is by way of example only and the invention is not limited to this use.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
In many jurisdictions, smoke alarms are mandatory in residential buildings. It has been found that smoke alarms can provide an early warning to residents. Such an early warning can mean the difference between life and death.
A problem with smoke alarms is that they can be ineffective if nobody is present to hear the alarm.
Some prior art smoke alarms include communication modules to automatically call emergency services.
However, the time between a smoke alarm being triggered and emergency services attending to a fire is typically enough to cause significant damage.
Other prior art smoke alarm systems are interconnected so that if smoke is detected in a part of a building where nobody is present to hear an alarm, other smoke alarms in the building will also issue an alarm.
While prior art smoke alarms can provide an adequate early warning, they are unable to stop a fire from causing significant damage.
Other systems such as automated sprinkler systems typically only activate after significant damage has occurred. Additionally, automated sprinkler systems can cause significant damage by being activated.
OBJECT OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of the present invention to overcome or at least alleviate one or more of the abovementioned problems with existing smoke alarm systems and/or provide the consumer with a useful or commercial choice. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In one aspect, the present invention broadly resides in a smoke alarm system including
a smoke detecting unit;
a relay to control electrical power supply to all or part of a switchboard located remote to the smoke detecting unit,
wherein when the smoke detecting unit detects smoke, the smoke detecting unit communicates with the relay to cut the electrical power supply through the relay.
The smoke detecting unit preferably communicates wirelessly with the relay. Alternatively or additionally, the smoke detecting unit communicates with the relay via an electrical cable.
The smoke detecting unit is preferably powered by a battery. Preferably the smoke detecting unit is connected to mains electricity. More preferably the smoke detecting unit is adapted to be powered by mains power and use battery power as a backup if mains power is lost.
The smoke detecting unit preferably includes a speaker to emit an audible alarm signal.
The smoke detecting unit is preferably adapted to communicate to other nearby smoke detecting units. Preferably the smoke detecting units are adapted to communicate to each other. Preferably the smoke detecting units are adapted to communicate to each other and emit an audible alarm signal if one of the smoke detecting units detects smoke. Preferably the smoke detecting units are adapted to communicate to each other and actuate a visual alarm if one of the smoke detecting units detects smoke. Preferably the smoke detecting unit includes a communication module to communicate to other devices.
It will be understood that detecting smoke is a reference to detecting a predefined threshold amount of smoke.
Preferably the smoke detecting unit includes a photoelectric smoke detecting sensor. Alternatively or additionally, the smoke detecting unit includes an ionisation smoke detecting sensor.
Preferably the relay controls power to part of the switchboard. Preferably in this manner electrical power can be maintained to essential items (such as emergency lighting, light circuits, and life support machinery) when smoke is detected. In another embodiment, the relay controls power to all of the switchboard. The relay can also be referred to as a switch.
The relay preferably includes a communication module. The communication module preferably enables the relay to receive signals from the smoke detecting unit wirelessly and/or via an electric cable.
The relay is preferably adapted to detect an earth leakage and cut power through the relay if an earth leakage is detected.
The relay is preferably adapted to detect a power surge and cut power through the relay if a power surge is detected.
Preferably the relay can be installed in the switchboard. In one embodiment, the relay is a main switch. Preferably the relay is installed in the switchboard as a main switch. Preferably the relay can replace an existing main switch in a switchboard. In another embodiment, the relay can replace a circuit breaker in a switchboard. Preferably, the relay is installed as a circuit breaker in the switchboard.
In one embodiment, the relay is adapted to control the supply of single phase electric power. In another embodiment, the relay is adapted to control the supply of two phase electric power. In a further embodiment, the relay is adapted to control the supply of three phase electric power.
In one embodiment, the smoke alarm system is adapted to communicate with a mobile device such as a mobile phone. Preferably the smoke alarm system can issue an alarm on the mobile device if smoke is detected. In one embodiment, the smoke alarm system can be reset (after issuing an alarm) by the mobile device. Preferably the smoke detecting unit communicates with the mobile device. Preferably the smoke alarm system communicates wirelessly with the mobile device using a wireless communication method such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. In another embodiment, the smoke alarm system communicates with the mobile device via a cellular network. In a further embodiment, the smoke alarm system communicates with the mobile device via a landline.
In one embodiment, the smoke alarm system includes a gas valve. Preferably when the smoke detecting unit detects smoke, the smoke detecting unit communicates with the gas valve to stop the flow of gas through the gas valve. Preferably the gas valve is actuated by a solenoid. In one embodiment the relay isolates power to the solenoid to stop the flow of gas through the gas valve. The smoke detecting unit preferably communicates wirelessly with the gas valve. Alternatively or additionally, the smoke detecting unit communicates with the gas valve via an electrical cable.
In one embodiment, the smoke detecting unit include a gas sensor. Preferably if a predefined level of a predefined gas is detected, the smoke alarm unit communicates with the gas valve to stop the flow of gas through the gas valve. Preferably if a predefined level of a predefined gas is detected, the smoke alarm unit communicates with the relay to cut the electrical power supply through the relay. In one embodiment, if a predefined level of a predefined gas is detected, the smoke alarm unit activates a ventilation device. Preferably the ventilation device is a ventilation fan. Preferably the gas sensor is a carbon monoxide sensor.
Preferably the smoke detecting unit is adapted to emit an audible alarm signal if a predefined level of a predefined gas is detected.
In another aspect, the present invention broadly resides in a smoke alarm system including
a relay to control electrical power supply to all or part of a switchboard located remote to a smoke detecting unit,
wherein when the smoke detecting unit detects smoke, the smoke detecting unit communicates with the relay to cut the electrical power supply through the relay.
In a further aspect, the present invention broadly resides in a smoke alarm system including
a smoke detecting unit;
a relay to control electrical power supply to all or part of a switchboard located remote to the smoke detecting unit; and
a gas valve,
wherein when the smoke detecting unit detects smoke, the smoke detecting unit communicates with the relay to cut the electrical power supply through the relay, and wherein when the smoke detecting unit detects smoke, the smoke detecting unit communicates with the gas valve to stop gas flowing through the gas valve.
Preferably the smoke detecting unit includes a communication module. Preferably the relay includes a communication module. Preferably the gas valve includes a communication module. Preferably the smoke detecting unit communication module is adapted to communicate with the relay communication module and the gas valve communication module. Preferably the communication modules are adapted to communicate to each other wirelessly. Alternatively or additionally, the communication modules are adapted to communicate to each other via one or more electrical cables.
In another aspect, the present invention broadly resides in a relay for a smoke alarm system the relay including
a communication module to communicate with one or more smoke detecting units,
wherein when the communication module receives a signal from the one or more smoke detecting units to indicate that smoke has been detected, the relay cuts electrical power supply through the relay.
Preferably the communication module communicates with the one or more smoke detecting units wirelessly. Alternatively or additionally, the communication module communicates with the one or more smoke detecting units via one or more electric cables.
Preferably the communication module emulates a smoke detecting unit. Preferably the relay will appear as a smoke detecting unit from the perspective of a smoke detecting unit.
In yet another aspect, the present invention broadly resides in a gas valve for a smoke alarm system the gas valve including
a communication module to communicate with one or more smoke detecting units,
wherein when the communication module receives a signal from the one or more smoke detecting units to indicate that smoke has been detected, the gas valve stops gas flowing through the gas valve.
Preferably the gas valve is actuated by a solenoid.
Preferably the gas valve communication module communicates with the one or more smoke detecting units wirelessly. Alternatively or additionally, the gas valve communication module communicates with the one or more smoke detecting units via one or more electric cables.
Preferably the gas valve communication module emulates a smoke detecting unit. Preferably the gas valve will appear as a smoke detecting unit from the perspective of a smoke detecting unit.
In a further aspect, the present invention broadly resides in a gas valve for a smoke alarm system the gas valve including a communication module to communicate with a relay as described in this specification,
wherein when the communication module receives a signal from the relay to indicate that smoke has been detected, the gas valve stops gas flowing through the gas valve.
Preferably the gas valve is actuated by a solenoid.
Preferably the gas valve communication module communicates with the relay wirelessly. Alternatively or additionally, the gas valve communication module communicates with the relay via one or more electric cables.
The features described with respect to one aspect also apply where applicable to all other aspects of the invention. Furthermore, different combinations of described features are herein described and claimed even when not expressly stated.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
In order that the present invention can be more readily understood reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings which illustrate a preferred embodiment of the invention and wherein:
Figure 1 is a schematic view of a smoke alarm system according to an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 2 is a schematic view of the smoke alarm system of Figure 1 including a gas valve;
Figure 3 is a schematic view of a smoke alarm system according to another embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 4 is a schematic view of the smoke alarm system of Figure 3 including a gas valve;
Figure 5 is a side view of a relay in the form of circuit breaker according to an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 6 is a schematic view of a relay according to an embodiment of the present invention; and
Figure 7 is a schematic view of a gas valve according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
With reference to Figure 1 there is shown a smoke alarm system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The smoke alarm system 10 has a smoke detecting unit 12. The smoke detecting unit 12 includes a photoelectric smoke detecting sensor to detect a predefined amount of smoke (threshold amount).
The smoke detecting unit 12 is powered by mains power (not shown) and includes a battery (not shown) as a backup if mains power is lost.
The smoke detecting unit 12 includes a speaker to sound an audible alarm if a predefined amount of smoke is detected.
The smoke detecting unit 12 includes a communication module to communicate wirelessly with a relay 14 which supplies electrical power to a switchboard 16. In this manner, if a predefined amount of smoke is detected, the smoke detecting unit sends a signal, and the relay 14 receives the signal and cuts electrical power to designated circuits of the electrical installation.
The relay 14 includes a relay communication module to receive wireless signals from the communication module of the smoke detecting unit 12.
In another embodiment, the smoke detecting unit 12 communicates wirelessly with one or more relays in the form of circuit breakers 18,20,22, instead of the relay 14. In this manner, electrical power can be cut selectively, i.e. to only those circuit breakers 18,20,22 that have a communication module that communicates with the smoke detecting unit 12. For example, power can be cut to non-essential services and power points, leaving power connected for lighting and other essential services.
A benefit of cutting electrical power is that electrical equipment that could potentially cause a fire can be turned off when smoke is first detected, in this manner, power can potentially be cut while the equipment or nearby items are smouldering but have not caught fire.
The smoke detecting unit 12 is interconnectable to other smoke detecting units (not shown). In this manner, if one of the smoke detecting units detects smoke, all of the smoke detecting units sound an alarm.
Wth reference to Figure 2, there is shown the smoke alarm system 10 of Figure 1 further including a gas valve 30.
The gas valve 30 includes a gas valve communication module to receive wireless signals from the communication module of the smoke detecting unit 12. The gas valve 30 includes a solenoid to control the state of the gas valve 30 (i.e. open or shut). If a predefined amount of smoke is detected, the smoke detecting unit 12 sends a signal, and the gas valve communication module receives the signal and the gas valve 30 changes state to shut to stop gas from flowing through the gas valve 30. In another embodiment, the gas valve communication module is adapted to receive wireless signals from the relay communication module of the relay 14. If a predefined amount of smoke is detected by a smoke detecting unit 12, the relay communication module of the relay 14 sends a signal, and the gas valve communication module receives the signal and the gas valve 30 changes state to shut to stop gas from flowing through the gas valve 30.
With reference to Figure 3, there is shown a smoke alarm system 110 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Smoke alarm system 110 is similar to smoke alarm system 10 shown in Figure 1. The difference between smoke alarm system 110 and smoke alarm system 10 is that in smoke alarm system 10, a smoke detecting unit 112 communicates with a relay 114 which supplies electrical power to a switchboard 116 via an electrical cable 124 instead of wirelessly.
In another embodiment, the smoke detecting unit 112 communicates via the electrical cable with one or more relays in the form of circuit breakers 118, 120,122, instead of the relay 114.
Wth reference to Figure 4, there is shown the smoke alarm system 110 of Figure 3 further including a gas valve 130.
The gas valve 130 includes a gas valve communication module to receive signals from the communication module of the smoke detecting unit 12 via electrical cables 124 and 126. The gas valve 130 includes a solenoid to control the state of the gas valve 130 (i.e. open or shut). If a predefined amount of smoke is detected, the smoke detecting unit 112 sends a signal, and the gas valve communication module receives the signal and the gas valve 130 changes state to shut to stop gas from flowing through the gas valve 130. In another embodiment, the gas valve communication module is adapted to receive signals from the relay communication module of the relay 114 via electrical cables 124 and 126. If a predefined amount of smoke is detected by a smoke detecting unit 112, the relay communication module of the relay 114 sends a signal, and the gas valve communication module receives the signal and the gas valve 130 changes state to shut to stop gas from flowing through the gas valve 130. In a further embodiment, not shown, a smoke alarm system can communicate via both one or more electrical cables and wirelessly.
With reference to Figures 5 there is shown a relay in the form of a circuit breaker 200 for a smoke alarm system (not shown). The circuit breaker 200 includes a communication module to communicate with one or more smoke detecting units (not shown) wirelessly and/or via one or more electrical cables. In this manner relays in the form of circuit breakers can replace existing circuit breakers in switchboards.
Wth reference to Figure 6 there is shown a relay 220 for a smoke alarm system (not shown). The relay 220 includes a communication module to communicate with one or more smoke detecting units (not shown) wirelessly and/or via one or more electrical cables 222.
The relay 220 is located between a main switch 218 and a plurality of circuit breakers (not shown) connected to connections 230,232,234,236,238,240.
When the communication module of the relay 220 receives a signal from one or more smoke detecting units to indicate that smoke has been detected, the relay 220 cuts electrical power supply to selected ones of the connections 230,232,234,236,238,240. For example, power can be maintained to connections 230 and 232 which supply power to essential equipment, while power is cut to connections 234,236,238 and 240, which supply power to non-essential equipment.
To enable interoperability with existing interconnected smoke detecting units (not shown), the communication module of the relay 220 emulates a smoke detecting unit. In this manner the relay 220 will appear as a smoke detecting unit from the perspective of a smoke detecting unit.
In another embodiment (not shown) the relay is used as a circuit breaker instead of a main switch to a switchboard. In this manner electrical power can be cut selectively.
Wth reference to Figure 7 there is shown a gas valve 300 for a smoke alarm system (not shown). The gas valve 300 includes a communication module to communicate with one or more smoke detecting units (not shown) wirelessly and/or via one or more electrical cables and/or to communicate with a relay (not shown) wirelessly and/or via one or more electrical cables.
When the communication module of the gas valve 300 receives a signal from one or more smoke detecting units and/or a relay to indicate that smoke has been detected, the gas valve 300 stops gas flowing through the gas valve 300. In one embodiment, to enable interoperability with existing interconnected smoke detecting units (not shown), the communication module of the gas valve 300 emulates a smoke detecting unit. In this manner the gas valve 300 will appear as a smoke detecting unit from the perspective of a smoke detecting unit.
ADVANTAGES
An advantage of the preferred embodiment of the smoke alarm system includes the ability to cut power to potential fire causing equipment. Another advantage of the preferred embodiment of the smoke alarm system includes the ability to turn off a supply of gas to a building. A further advantage of the preferred embodiment of the smoke alarm system includes selectively cutting power to non- essential services.
VARIATIONS
While the foregoing has been given by way of illustrative example of this invention, all such and other modifications and variations thereto as would be apparent to persons skilled in the art are deemed to fall within the broad scope and ambit of this invention as is herein set forth.
Throughout the description and claims of this specification the word “comprise” and variations of that word such as“comprises” and“comprising”, are not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers or steps.

Claims

1. A smoke alarm system including
a smoke detecting unit;
a relay to control electrical power supply to all or part of a switchboard located remote to the smoke detecting unit,
wherein when the smoke detecting unit detects smoke, the smoke detecting unit communicates with the relay to cut the electrical power supply through the relay.
2. A smoke alarm system as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the smoke detecting unit is adapted to communicate to other nearby smoke detecting units, and the smoke detecting unit and the nearby smoke detecting units are adapted to communicate to each other and emit an audible alarm signal if one of the smoke detecting unit or the nearby smoke detecting units detects smoke.
3. A smoke alarm system as claimed in claim 1 or in claim 2, wherein the relay includes a communication module to enable the relay to receive signals from the smoke detecting unit wirelessly and/or via an electric cable.
4. A smoke alarm system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the relay is installed in the switchboard as a main switch.
5. A smoke alarm system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the relay is installed as a circuit breaker in the switchboard.
6. A smoke alarm system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the smoke alarm system is adapted to communicate with a mobile device and issue an alarm on the mobile device if smoke is detected, and wherein the smoke alarm system can be reset by the mobile device.
7. A smoke alarm system as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, further including a gas valve, wherein in use, when the smoke detecting unit detects smoke, the smoke detecting unit communicates with the gas valve to stop the flow of gas through the gas valve.
8. A smoke alarm system as claimed in claim 7, further including a gas sensor, wherein in use if a predefined level of a predefined gas is detected, the smoke alarm unit communicates with the gas valve to stop the flow of gas through the gas valve, and/or wherein in use if a predefined level of a predefined gas is detected, the smoke alarm unit activates a ventilation device.
9. A smoke alarm system including
a relay to control electrical power supply to all or part of a switchboard located remote to a smoke detecting unit,
wherein when the smoke detecting unit detects smoke, the smoke detecting unit communicates with the relay to cut the electrical power supply through the relay.
10. A smoke alarm system including
a smoke detecting unit;
a relay to control electrical power supply to all or part of a switchboard located remote to the smoke detecting unit; and
a gas valve,
wherein when the smoke detecting unit detects smoke, the smoke detecting unit communicates with the relay to cut the electrical power supply through the relay, and wherein when the smoke detecting unit detects smoke, the smoke detecting unit communicates with the gas valve to stop gas flowing through the gas valve.
1 1. A smoke alarm system as claimed in claim 10, wherein the smoke detecting unit includes a communication module, the relay includes a communication module, and the gas valve includes a communication module, and wherein the smoke detecting unit communication module is adapted to communicate with the relay communication module and the gas valve communication module.
12. A smoke alarm system as claimed in claim 1 1 , wherein the communication modules are adapted to communicate to each other wirelessly.
13. A relay for a smoke alarm system the relay including a communication module to communicate with one or more smoke detecting units,
wherein when the communication module receives a signal from the one or more smoke detecting units to indicate that smoke has been detected, the relay cuts electrical power supply through the relay.
14. A relay as claimed in claim 13 wherein the communication module communicates with the one or more smoke detecting units wirelessly.
15. A relay as claimed in claim 13 wherein the communication module communicates with the one or more smoke detecting units via one or more electric cables.
16. A gas valve for a smoke alarm system the gas valve including
a communication module to communicate with one or more smoke detecting units,
wherein when the communication module receives a signal from the one or more smoke detecting units to indicate that smoke has been detected, the gas valve stops gas flowing through the gas valve.
17. A gas valve as claimed in claim 16, wherein the gas valve communication module communicates with the one or more smoke detecting units wirelessly and/or via one or more electric cables.
18. A gas valve for a smoke alarm system the gas valve including
a communication module to communicate with a relay as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 15,
wherein when the communication module receives a signal from the relay to indicate that smoke has been detected, the gas valve stops gas flowing through the gas valve.
19. A gas valve as claimed in claim 18, wherein the gas valve communication module communicates with the one or more smoke detecting units wirelessly.
20. A gas valve as claimed in claim 18, wherein the gas valve communication module communicates with the one or more smoke detecting units via one or more electric cables.
PCT/AU2019/050983 2018-09-14 2019-09-13 Smoke alarm system WO2020051645A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

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AU2019338430A AU2019338430A1 (en) 2018-09-14 2019-09-13 Smoke alarm system

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

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AU2018903471 2018-09-14
AU2018903471A AU2018903471A0 (en) 2018-09-14 Smoke alarm system

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WO (1) WO2020051645A1 (en)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2022256749A2 (en) * 2021-06-04 2022-12-08 Smart Cellular Labs, Llc Integrated smoke alarm communications system

Citations (5)

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AU2003200895B2 (en) * 2002-03-08 2004-05-13 Fire Preventors Limited Hazard prevention apparatus
US20100073174A1 (en) * 2006-11-07 2010-03-25 6036716 Canada Inc. Wireless Smoke Detector Power Cut-Off System
US20100201206A1 (en) * 2007-09-28 2010-08-12 Graham Chilvers Power Control Apparatus
US20110170377A1 (en) * 2010-01-12 2011-07-14 Ferdinand Villegas Legaspi Systems and methods for automatically disabling appliances
US20130093593A1 (en) * 2011-10-17 2013-04-18 John H. Woods Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector, Alarm, Transmitter, and Cut out switch system

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
AU2003200895B2 (en) * 2002-03-08 2004-05-13 Fire Preventors Limited Hazard prevention apparatus
US20100073174A1 (en) * 2006-11-07 2010-03-25 6036716 Canada Inc. Wireless Smoke Detector Power Cut-Off System
US20100201206A1 (en) * 2007-09-28 2010-08-12 Graham Chilvers Power Control Apparatus
US20110170377A1 (en) * 2010-01-12 2011-07-14 Ferdinand Villegas Legaspi Systems and methods for automatically disabling appliances
US20130093593A1 (en) * 2011-10-17 2013-04-18 John H. Woods Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector, Alarm, Transmitter, and Cut out switch system

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