DEVICE FOR ACCESSING AN UNDERGROUND OR SURFACE BUILDING INFRASTRUCTURE WITH A PERIODIC DETECTION DEVICE

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of access solutions for underground and surface civil engineering infrastructure of all types. Access to the infrastructure is generally via an access hatch, also called an access cover or access cover.

[0002] A hatch provides access to underground and surface civil engineering infrastructure for inspection and monitoring. Civil engineering infrastructure includes, in particular, public and private networks (hydraulic, electrical, gas, communication, etc.), excluding domestic applications such as housing.

[0003] The infrastructures in question include, but are not limited to: public infrastructure networks, such as public natural resource or energy access networks: water networks (including drinking water reservoirs or water tower-type storage towers, sanitation networks dedicated to rainwater and wastewater, fire hydrants - also called fire standpipes - and the corresponding networks), electrical power networks, including electrical cabinets (which can be installed above ground, or be underground, buried, or partially buried), communication cable networks (telephone, fiber optics, etc.); private infrastructure networks: water, energy, underground (cabled) or aerial (antenna networks for example) communication infrastructure.

[0004] A complete access solution typically includes an access cover (hatch or cover), a frame to which the access cover is attached and which is, for example, sealed in the ground or on fixed infrastructure, and a chamber located under (or behind) the access cover.

[0005] It is important to ensure control over the resources distributed by these infrastructures (natural resources, energy, or information sources). This is a matter of public and economic interest. For certain applications, it is crucial to be able to control the infrastructures at all times, that is, to ensure the continuous availability of information concerning them.

[0006] Access hatches, by definition, constitute an access point to an infrastructure. While these access points may be necessary for infrastructure control or maintenance interventions, they nonetheless represent weaknesses in infrastructure security, as they can serve as points of intrusion. For many applications, it is therefore important to be able to detect unauthorized access to the infrastructure.

[0007] It should be noted that throughout this document, the term intrusion is used to refer to any unauthorized access, and includes in particular the breaking into of an access device.

[0008] US patent 8976038 describes a device for verifying that an access hatch, such as a manhole cover, is in the closed position. The device includes a sensor positioned in the chamber beneath the hatch and adapted to detect an acoustic signal emitted at the sensor and reflected by the hatch. When the hatch is open, the signal is not reflected, and the hatch's openness can thus be determined. In response, an image sensor can capture an image of the scene, and / or the hatch open information can be transmitted wirelessly.

[0009] However, systems known in the state of the art can at best detect the opening of a hatch, but they do not solve the problem of intrusion into an infrastructure, because an intrusion is potentially already in progress, or the movement (for example the opening) of the hatch does not correspond to an intrusion.

[0010] US document 2011 / 0148631 A1 discloses an access device according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0011] The invention relates to a device for accessing underground or surface civil engineering infrastructure, according to claim 1.

[0012] The processing of the signal(s) from one or more sensors in the invention makes it possible to detect if an intrusion attempt is underway. This allows, thanks to the communication module, for an alert to be sent before the intrusion into the access device's chamber is effective. Action can thus be taken very quickly. Among these measures, dispatching an intervention team is possible. Various measures can also be taken at the level of the infrastructure concerned. For example, for a communication network (e.g., a fiber optic network), it is possible to immediately cease the exchange of information on this network. For a water network, the water flow can be shut off upstream or downstream of the access point in question.

[0013] The analysis module detects information characteristic of an intrusion attempt based on a correlation of parameters of the same signal or of parameters of signals from different sensors.

[0014] The communication module may include wireless or wired communication means.

[0015] The communication module is of the multiprotocol type.

[0016] The access device may include a shock or vibration sensor.

[0017] The access device may include an acoustic sensor.

[0018] The detection of information characteristic of an intrusion attempt is based, at least in part, on the frequency of shocks, vibrations, or sounds (detected by the sensor). The frequency is advantageously correlated with an intensity data point for the shocks, vibrations, or sounds, for the detection of information characteristic of an intrusion attempt.

[0019] The access device may include a temperature sensor or an optical sensor capable of detecting thermal radiation. The detection of information characteristic of an intrusion attempt is based, at least in part, on a temporal evolution of temperature or thermal radiation.

[0020] The access device includes at least one sensor for opening or closing the hatch from among: a contact mechanical sensor, an angular position sensor of the hatch, an accelerometer, an optical sensor.

[0021] The access device may include a battery to power the communication module, either as the primary power source or in the event of failure of a primary power source.

[0022] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent in the description below.

[0023] The attached drawings are given as non-exhaustive examples: there figure 1 represents an access device conforming to an embodiment of the invention; the figure 2 represents another example of an embodiment of an access device according to the invention; the figure 3 schematically represents a communication module that can be implemented in the invention.

[0024] There figure 1 represents a trapdoor 1 and the frame 2 to which it is linked, which are intended to close a chamber (not shown in the figure 1 ) or to allow access to it. The figure 1 aims to present an example of the physical constitution of an access device, but the invention is applicable to many other constitutions.

[0025] Hatch 1 is shown in an open position, allowing access to the chamber via the opening 21 formed by the frame 2.

[0026] Trapdoor 1 can have various configurations. In the example shown in the figure 1 The access cover is made of galvanized steel. Depending on other possible constructions, the access cover can be made of cast iron (ductile, gray), stainless steel, or a composite material. The access cover can therefore be made of a single material or combine different constituent materials. Thus, part of the cover's surface can be made of one material and the remaining surface of another. In particular, the cover can combine galvanized steel with a section having a special coating, or be made of cast iron with an insert of another material.

[0027] This can notably help to enable the transmission of electromagnetic waves through hatch 1, as detailed below.

[0028] In the example of the figure 1 The hatch has a rigid outer skin 11, for example made of galvanized steel. The outer skin corresponds to the visible part of the hatch 1 when it is in the closed position. The outer skin 11 covers or ensures surface continuity with the frame 2. Naturally, the hatch 1 may be slightly raised relative to the frame 2, and / or have a non-planar surface that is wholly or partially raised relative to the frame 2.

[0029] Under the outer skin 11, ribs 12 form compartments 13, 13'. The ribs 12 are substantially orthogonal to the outer skin 11.

[0030] Frame 2 can also be made of steel. The other constituent materials mentioned above can be used alternatively. In particular, frame 2 can be made of the same material as hatch 1.

[0031] It features sealing elements 21 for its final fixing by sealing at the opening of a chamber (not shown in the figure 1 The chamber can, for example, be made of reinforced concrete or fiber-reinforced mortar for infrastructure requiring safety. The chamber can also be made of composite material or any other material commonly used in civil engineering.

[0032] The hatch 1 has a seat, i.e. a contact area in the closed position, which can simply be placed on the frame 2 or be held in the frame 2.

[0033] The hatch 1 is attached to the frame so that it can assume an open and a closed position. For example, the hatch 1 can be pivoted on the frame 2 by means of a pivot 15. The hatch 1 may have a simple opening mechanism, meaning it can be opened with a simple lifting key, or it may have a more or less complex locking system (for example, allowing the hatch 1 to be opened only with a specific key). The locking system 16 may include two locking latches that can be rotated to bear against the underside of the frame 2, preventing the hatch 1 from being opened.

[0034] Hatch 1 is equipped in the invention with a communication module 3.

[0035] The communication module 3 may include, in particular, an electronic unit 31 equipped with at least one antenna 32 for transmitting a signal over a wireless network. Alternatively or in addition, the communication module 3 may allow for wired communication.

[0036] The communication module 3 can be housed in a compartment 13 formed beneath the outer skin 11 by the ribs 12. The compartment 13 containing the communication module 3 is closed by an inner skin 14. The inner skin 14 is rigid. The inner skin 14 can be made of an inorganic or organic material (e.g., plastic, composite material) that can be reinforced to resist mechanical (e.g., cutting tools) or thermal (e.g., blowtorch) damage. It can be metallic, for example, hot-dip galvanized steel, or stainless steel.

[0037] It provides protection for the communication module 3. One, several, or all of the compartments 13, 13' formed by the ribs 12 can be closed by an internal rigid skin 14.

[0038] The antenna 32 of the communication module 3 can be positioned in the same compartment as the rest of the communication module 3. Alternatively, the antenna can be positioned in a different compartment. The antenna's positioning is important to allow wave transmission from the plate 1. The antenna 32 (or one or more of the communication module's antennas) can be located in a different compartment than the electronic housing 31.

[0039] The antenna's position is advantageously optimized to achieve the best possible transmission of electromagnetic waves through hatch 1. However, in certain applications, the requirement to protect the antenna against external stress (such as an attempted break-in of the hatch) may be taken into account. The antenna's configuration and position may, in particular, consider the configuration of the ribs 12, as well as the presence on hatch 1 of areas of lesser attenuation for electromagnetic waves: areas thinner than the rest of hatch 1, or made of a different material than the rest of the hatch allowing for better wave transmission, the presence of a keyhole in the hatch, etc.

[0040] When the communication module is configured to allow wireless communication, said communication module is integrated (positioned) in a fixed or adjustable manner, to ensure the best signal transmission performance and consequently the lowest possible power consumption.

[0041] There figure 2 represents another example of an embodiment of an access device according to the invention. figure 2 illustrates in particular another example of the physical constitution of an access device to which the invention is applicable. figure 2 represents an access hatch 1 which, unlike the hatch of the device of the figure 1 , is essentially circular.

[0042] Frame 2 is, in parallel, roughly circular. It provides access to room 4.

[0043] In the example shown here, the cover or hatch 2 is typically made of cast iron (for example, ductile iron). The frame 2 is made of the same material. The hatch 1 is hinged to the frame 2 by a pivot 15. A locking mechanism 16 secures the hatch 1 in the closed position.

[0044] Ribs 12 form compartments 13, 13' beneath the upper skin 11 of hatch 1. The compartments are open, meaning they are not enclosed by an inner skin. The communication module is installed in one of the compartments, attached to the inner face of the upper skin 11 of hatch 1. The communication module 3 can be secured using conventional mechanical fasteners, such as screws. Other fastening methods, such as magnetic fasteners, may also be used.

[0045] More specifically, the electronic housing 31 of the communication module and the antenna 32 are fixed in the same compartment 13.

[0046] An example of a communication module 3 that can be used in the invention is schematically represented in the figure 3 .

[0047] The communication module shown comprises an electronic box 31 and an antenna 32. The box 32 integrates a microprocessor 33 adapted to receive signals from at least one sensor 34. In this case, two sensors 34 are used in the example embodiment shown.

[0048] The sensors 34 can be integrated into the electronic housing 31 or connected to it, as in the example shown, by sensor ports 35. The electronic housing 31 can advantageously be watertight or even airtight. It can have a plastic or steel casing. The ports of the electronic housing 31, whether they are the sensor ports 35 or, as described below, the ports for connecting a power supply or an antenna, can advantageously be sealed. Unused ports can be covered by a watertight cap.

[0049] The signal emitted by each sensor 34, which represents a measured quantity, can be analyzed to determine whether an intrusion attempt has occurred in the access device chamber. Specifically, an analysis module analyzes the signal delivered by sensor 34 to identify information characteristic of an intrusion attempt. This characteristic information can be derived from a parameter of the signal, or from a correlation of parameters within the same signal or from signals originating from different sensors.

[0050] In the example shown here, the analysis module is formed by the microprocessor 33 of the electronic box 31. In particular, the analysis module executes a computer program according to instructions enabling the analysis of the signal (or signals) in order to determine the information characteristic of an intrusion attempt.

[0051] Thus, the analysis module can be integrated into the communication module, or separate from it, depending on the implementation method envisaged.

[0052] The 34 sensors can be of various types, to measure various quantities whose value and / or evolution analysis makes it possible to determine the characteristic information of an intrusion attempt.

[0053] In particular, sensor 34 can measure a quantity representative of a mechanical or thermal action on hatch 1.

[0054] In the example shown, a first sensor 34 is a shock or vibration sensor. A second sensor 34 is a temperature sensor.

[0055] The shock or vibration sensor can, for example, be based on an accelerometer. It detects sudden mechanical or vibratory stresses applied to hatch 1. The detection of information characteristic of an attempted intrusion can then be based on the frequency of the detected shocks or vibrations. The intensity or power of one or more detected shocks can be used as a primary or supplementary parameter, correlated with the frequency. This allows, for example, the detection of both attempted break-ins through repeated impacts on the hatch or its immediate surroundings, and attempted break-ins through sudden mechanical force, such as the detonation of an explosive charge.

[0056] This detection function could be provided alternatively or in addition by a sound sensor, according to the same modalities.

[0057] The temperature sensor is positioned to measure the temperature either on the internal surface of hatch 1 or at a specific point in chamber 3 of the access device. The sensor can be of various known technologies, requiring contact with the area whose temperature is being measured or non-contact (e.g., a laser sensor). It can also be an optical sensor adapted to detect thermal radiation, for example, an infrared camera. A rapid temperature rise may indicate an attempted intrusion by mechanical or thermal cutting (e.g., with a blowtorch) of hatch 1 or its connection to the frame 2 of the access device.

[0058] The sensors 34 may also include a sensor for the open or closed position of the hatch, for example, a contact mechanical sensor, an angular position sensor for the hatch, an accelerometer, or an optical sensor. Such a sensor makes it possible to detect a total or partial opening of the hatch. If an opening is detected following the detection of information characteristic of an intrusion attempt, this makes it possible to confirm the intrusion into the infrastructure by the access device in question.

[0059] When information characteristic of an intrusion attempt is detected, the analysis module issues an intrusion alert. This intrusion alert is then transmitted by the communication module over one or more wireless networks and / or via a wired connection. The communication module may include a means of encrypting the transmitted data.

[0060] The example shown in the figure 3 is a wireless communication module. This communication module 3 is of the multiprotocol type, that is to say, adapted to transmit according to at least two wired and / or wireless communication protocols (simultaneously or alternatively, for example depending on network availability).

[0061] The protocols used can notably be chosen from among the protocols of the Internet of Things.

[0062] The protocols that can be implemented in the invention can be categorized as follows.

[0063] The protocols used may include one or more wired communication protocols. For example, these wired communication protocols can be adapted for fiber optic or cable communication.

[0064] The protocols used include at least one wireless communication protocol. Wireless communication protocols can be short-range, and / or medium- or long-range.

[0065] Wired networks and short-range communication networks are therefore mainly unoperated, that is to say, independent of a network of antennas deployed by an operator.

[0066] In particular, short-range wireless communication protocols can be chosen from: NFC, RFID, Bluetooth, including Bluetooth Low Energy, LiFi, and Zigbee (trademarks). The use of alternative protocols of this type, whether known or emerging, is also possible.

[0067] Medium- and long-range communication protocols can be chosen from 4G, 5G, LoRa, Sigfox, NB-LoT, LTE-M, GPRS, and GSM (trademarks). The use of alternative protocols of this type, whether known or emerging, is also possible.

[0068] Medium- and long-range communication networks can be operated or unoperated. Currently, most networks that provide very long range, number portability, and optimal coverage regardless of geographical location are operated. These networks are billed by the operator.

[0069] Generally, long-distance, low-power transmission technologies are preferred. These may utilize the 868 MHz–914 MHz band. In certain use cases, short- or medium-distance transmission technologies may be employed. These technologies may use the 433 MHz band, for example. A relay is then used to transmit data over a long-distance network, enabling control of the access device from a remote platform.

[0070] Cellular communication protocols (GSM, GPRS, EDGE, UMTS / HSPA, LTE) have the advantage of good network availability.

[0071] The communication module includes a power supply. This power supply can be a battery 36, and / or a connection to a power grid (e.g., a national distribution network) and / or a local power source (hydroelectric turbine, wind turbine, solar panel, etc.). The battery 36 can be of various types, including lithium-ion. It ensures sufficient autonomy for the communication module 3, for example, two years under normal operating conditions.

[0072] The battery 36 can be integrated into the electronic housing 31, or be external to this housing as in the example shown in the figure 3 Other energy sources, complementary or alternative, can be used: photovoltaic cells, connection to an electrical grid, etc.

[0073] The developed invention can be used within the framework of a management system for a fleet of access devices to one or more underground or surface civil engineering infrastructures as previously described.

[0074] The system includes access devices to at least one underground or surface civil engineering infrastructure, which are centrally supervised.

[0075] The intrusion attempt alert, and optionally the intrusion confirmation provided by a hatch position detection sensor, are transmitted by the communication module to a server. This alert is then relayed to an operator responsible for taking appropriate action, or it is processed by an automated system that takes appropriate action.

[0076] Of course, in order for appropriate measures to be taken, it may be necessary to identify the access device in question. For this purpose, for example, each access device in the system can be associated with an identifier. When an access device communicates with the server, it transmits its identifier to enable identification. As is well known, recognition algorithms can be used during communication between the access device and the server to allow for mutual authentication and secure the communication.

[0077] Identifying the access device allows access to information about it. Specifically, the access device can be geolocated, for example, by loading location information associated with it during installation. This location information (for example, the latitude and longitude coordinates of the access device) can be stored in computer memory during the device's installation. This memory can be located on the S server or remotely from it.

[0078] Alternatively, position information can be stored in a memory located at the level of the access device (for example in the communication module 3), this position information being attached in the data transmitted by the access device.

[0079] The invention thus developed provides an access device for underground or surface civil engineering infrastructure, offering means to detect an attempted intrusion into the access device, particularly an attempted break-in. The device can detect different modes of intrusion, depending on the sensors used and the processing of the sensor signal(s). The detection of information characteristic of an attempted intrusion, possibly followed by confirmation of the intrusion, allows for the immediate implementation of appropriate measures.

Claims

1. A device for accessing an underground or surface civil engineering infrastructure, comprising an access hatch (1) having a closed position wherein it closes a chamber (4) and an open position wherein it gives access to said chamber (4), the access device comprising at least one sensor (34) configured to measure a variable representative of a mechanical or thermal action on the hatch (1) in the closed position, i.e. a shock or vibration sensor, or an acoustic sensor, and to deliver a signal corresponding to the measured variable, the access device comprising a communication module (3) configured for transmitting an attempted intrusion alert, the access device comprising an analysis module comprising a microprocessor, the analysis module executing a computer program according to instructions making it possible to analyse the signal so as to detect therein information characteristic of an attempted intrusion into the chamber (4) on the basis of a correlation of parameters of the same signal or of signal parameters from different sensors (34), the parameters comprising the change over time of said measured variable, i.e. a change of frequency of shocks, vibrations, or sounds detected, the frequency of the shocks, vibrations or sounds being correlated with a given intensity of the shocks, vibrations, or sounds, and if said characteristic information is detected, the analysis module generates said attempted intrusion alert, and in that it further comprises at least one sensor for opening or closing the hatch among: a contact mechanism sensor, an angular position sensor of the hatch, an accelerometer, an optical sensor, the access device being characterised in that the communication module is multiprotocol type configured to transmit alternately according to at least two communication protocols according to network availability.

2. The access device according to claim 1, wherein the device comprises a battery (36) allowing the power supply of the communication module (3), principally or in the event of failure of a main electrical source.