System for detecting fire initiation comprising a plurality of detecting devices forming a network

Abstract

The invention relates to a system for detecting fire initiation, comprising: - a plurality of detecting devices (2) forming a network covering a region to be monitored, and - an information-technology platform (3), characterized in that each detecting device (2) is configured to: - acquire infrared images of the region to be monitored (1); - detect a local increase in infrared radiation, and - if a local increase in infrared radiation is detected, transmit, to the information-technology platform (3), a digital warning signal.

Description

Fire outbreak detection system comprising a plurality of detection devices forming a mesh

[0001] The field of the invention is that of the design of fire-fighting systems.

[0002] More specifically, the invention relates in particular to a system for detecting the start of fires.

[0003] For many years, the risk of fires in natural sites has been increasing exponentially.

[0004] To preserve natural heritage, particularly private or public forests, it is necessary to prevent these fire risks and to be able to act as soon as the first signs of fire appear.

[0005] For this, several fire detection solutions exist to monitor risk areas.

[0006] A first solution involves the use of watchtowers.

[0007] These watchtowers are manned by watchmen who, using binoculars, monitor natural areas in order to detect signs of fires and alert the services dedicated to extinguishing the fires.

[0008] For autonomous surveillance, the monitors can be replaced by optical and / or infrared cameras.

[0009] This first solution has many drawbacks.

[0010] First of all, the presence of supervisors or cameras generates a significant operating cost for the solution.

[0011] Indeed, the large number of supervisors combined with the hourly labor cost makes this solution expensive. Furthermore, the human factor makes this solution fallible.

[0012] Furthermore, when the supervisors are replaced by cameras, the cost of purchasing the cameras and their maintenance (frequent servicing and cleaning) do not reduce operating costs, and may even, on the contrary, increase them, especially since it is still necessary to mobilize several people to continuously watch the screens transmitting the images from the cameras.

[0013] Furthermore, since watchtowers are designed to monitor several dozen square kilometers, in order for it to be detected, the fire must be large enough to generate smoke dense enough to be detected several kilometers away. By then, it is usually already too late to limit the damage caused by the fire. In addition to the vast area to be monitored, other parameters limit the effectiveness of watchtowers, for example, low sun, twilight or darkness, or hazy atmospheres due, for example, to pollution, pollen or the presence of dust.

[0014] Finally, when a fire is detected, only an approximate geographic area of ​​the fire location can be determined.

[0015] Precise identification of the location of the fire is therefore necessary before the emergency services are called in on site.

[0016] A second solution consists of using satellites which retransmit, in real time, images of the places to be monitored.

[0017] This second solution is even more expensive to implement than the first solution. On the other hand, the location of the fire is more precise.

[0018] However, for it to be detected, the fire must be large enough to generate smoke dense enough to be detected several kilometers away. Generally, a fire can only be detected by this second solution when it extends over an area of ​​at least 0.1 hectares (1000 square meters).

[0019] So, as with the first solution, when the fire is identified, it is already too late to limit the damage.

[0020] Furthermore, when cloud cover is present above the fire, the fire is masked and therefore not detectable by satellites.

[0021] A third solution is to use flying machines such as helicopters, balloons or drones that fly over risk areas.

[0022] Due to the complexity of operation (need to declare a flight plan, maintenance of flying machines, and taking into account weather conditions in particular), the use of this third solution does not allow for optimal or continuous monitoring of risk areas.

[0023] From then on, the use of flying machines is programmed, leaving, between each flight time, an unmonitored time in risk areas.

[0024] Furthermore, in particularly rugged areas and / or areas not covered by radio communication, there may be a delay between the moment a fire is identified and it is reported. This delay can then delay emergency response, and therefore cause damage due to the fire.

[0025] Due to their high cost, these first three solutions are only used optimally during so-called critical seasons, particularly periods of drought, which often correspond to summer. During less critical seasons, these solutions are still used, but in a more limited manner, or with reduced resources, for example, fewer personnel for watchtowers.

[0026] Also, outside of these so-called critical seasons, monitoring of natural spaces is limited, which increases the risk of destruction by fire.

[0027] A fourth solution is to use sensors located in the heart of risk areas.

[0028] These sensors, placed several meters high in precise locations, make it possible to detect physical parameters, in particular the presence of gas, humidity and / or heat characteristic of fires.

[0029] These sensors are connected, by means of communication, to a central unit which can emit an alert signal in order to trigger emergency intervention.

[0030] Although less expensive than the solutions described previously, this fourth solution has certain drawbacks.

[0031] To operate, the sensors must be powered electrically. For this, they are connected to batteries that must be recharged or replaced periodically.

[0032] This therefore requires tedious and costly maintenance. Failure to recharge or replace the battery renders the sensor unusable, which reduces the effectiveness of the fire detection system.

[0033] Additionally, weather conditions can also affect fire detection.

[0034] Indeed, in the event of strong winds, the smoke released by a fire can be directed towards sensors far from the fire zone.

[0035] Therefore, the indication of the location of the fire may be incorrect and lead emergency services to the wrong place.

[0036] Also, an alert can be wrongly issued by bad detection.

[0037] For example, smoke from a motor vehicle could be interpreted as a fire by a sensor, triggering an alert and unnecessary emergency response.

[0038] The invention aims in particular to overcome the drawbacks of the prior art.

[0039] More specifically, the invention aims to propose a fire outbreak detection system enabling safe, rapid, geographically precise and permanent detection of fire outbreaks.

[0040] The invention also aims to provide such a fire detection system which is simple and inexpensive to use.

[0041] The invention also aims to provide such a fire detection system with increased autonomy, without the need for frequent maintenance operations.

[0042] These objectives, as well as others which will appear subsequently, are achieved thanks to the invention which has as its subject a system for detecting the start of fires, comprising:- a plurality of detection devices forming a mesh of an area to be monitored, each detection device integrating recording means capable of memorizing a unique identifier and including at least one sensor of a physical characteristic of a start of fire, a processing unit and first means of communication;- a computer platform including a database relating to the detection devices and listing the unique identifiers of all the detection devices and of the second means of communication intended to cooperate with the first means of communication to form a communication channel;characterized in that each sensor of each detection device is an infrared type camera, and in that each detection device is configured to:- acquire, via the sensors, infrared images of the area to be monitored at regular intervals;- detect a predetermined infrared level threshold in a first image, and- compare the infrared level of a second successive image with the first image to detect a localized increase in infrared radiation, and- if a localized increase in infrared radiation is detected, transmit to the computer platform, via the communication channel, a digital alert signal including the unique identifier of the detection device and geolocation data stored in the recording means.;

[0043] Such a fire detection system makes it possible to determine the start of a fire quickly and accurately.

[0044] In fact, the use of sensors in the form of infrared cameras makes it possible to detect an abnormal rise in temperature in the area to be monitored, even before smoke appears.

[0045] This then makes it possible to trigger the emergency intervention before a blaze becomes too severe and causes partial destruction of the area to be monitored.

[0046] In addition, the transmission of the unique identifier of the detection device from which the digital alert signal originates, as well as its geolocation, makes it possible to better guide the emergency response since the intervention zone can be determined and delimited precisely.

[0047] According to an advantageous aspect, the computer platform also comprises at least one display device for displaying the geolocation data of the detection device having emitted the digital alert signal.

[0048] This display device allows an operator to coordinate the emergency response by identifying the intervention zone.

[0049] This means that emergency services can bring equipment adapted to the intervention zone to ensure effective extinguishing of the fire without the risk of encountering hazards due to the geography of the intervention site, or almost.

[0050] According to another advantageous aspect, each detection device also integrates at least one digital camera, and the computer platform is configured to transmit, to each detection device having transmitted a digital alert signal, a request to take an instant photograph by the digital camera, each detection device being configured to execute said photograph upon receipt of the request and to transmit it to the computer platform, via the communication channel, to be displayed on the display device.

[0051] It is thus possible to remove any doubt using the detection device, to confirm or deny the start of a fire.

[0052] An operator can, in fact, visually determine whether the alert is linked to a real fire outbreak or whether, on the contrary, it is linked to an increase in an infrared level, for example linked to the presence of the thermal signature of an animal, a person or a vehicle with a thermal engine circulating in the area to be monitored.

[0053] The purpose of doubt removal is in particular to limit unnecessary rescue interventions, these unnecessary interventions being costly and depriving rescue teams of material and physical resources for real interventions, such as domestic fires or accidents. In addition, doubt removal makes it possible to determine the size of the rescue team dispatched to the scene of the fire, as well as the material resources required.

[0054] According to another advantageous aspect, each detection device also integrates at least one digital camera, and the processing unit is configured to take a snapshot using the digital camera, and transmit said snapshot to the computer platform simultaneously with the digital alert signal, via the communication channel, to be displayed on the display device.

[0055] This allows an operator to identify the start of a fire as soon as a digital alert signal is received.

[0056] If necessary, the operator can visually confirm, by issuing a request from the computer platform, the start of the fire using a second image.

[0057] This allows for rapid triggering of emergency response in the event of a fire, without the risk of delay due to a poor connection.

[0058] According to another advantageous aspect, each detection device integrates means for moving the or each sensor and / or digital camera.

[0059] This makes it possible to limit the number of sensors and digital cameras to ensure a 180° scan of the area to be monitored by each sensor, or even 360° when the detection device is installed at the top of a mast.

[0060] In other words, the means of movement allow the sensor and / or digital camera to be rotated to ensure optimal monitoring of the area to be monitored.

[0061] By limiting the number of sensors and digital cameras, it is then possible to limit the cost of the fire detection system.

[0062] According to another advantageous aspect, each detection device comprises a protective housing and an electric battery for powering each sensor, the processing unit, the first means of communication and / or the digital camera(s).

[0063] This configuration makes each of the detection devices energy-independent.

[0064] This makes it easier to install the fire detection system, as there is no need to create an electrical network to supply the detection devices.

[0065] According to another advantageous aspect, the housing comprises an external support, and each device integrates means for capturing solar energy for recharging the battery.

[0066] The external support and the means of capturing solar energy make it possible to further improve the energy autonomy of the detection devices since the battery can be recharged continuously, in parallel with the operation of the detection devices.

[0067] According to another advantageous aspect, the means of capturing solar energy are in the form of a photosensitive film.

[0068] Such a photosensitive film ensures that the batteries are recharged regardless of sunlight conditions.

[0069] In fact, the photosensitive characteristic of the film allows it to react to the presence of light to ensure the battery is charged, without requiring direct exposure to solar radiation.

[0070] Furthermore, the use of photosensitive film makes it possible to limit the weight of the detection device since it does not require a supporting structure compared to certain photovoltaic cells.

[0071] Furthermore, in forests, it is not uncommon for small branches, pine cones or even fruit (e.g. chestnuts) to fall from trees and risk hitting the detection devices. A transparent protective cover may, if necessary, be added to the detection device to protect the photosensitive film.

[0072] According to another advantageous aspect, the fire outbreak detection system also comprises at least one portable computer unit held by at least one user of the system, each portable computer unit integrating third communication means intended to cooperate with the second communication means to form a second communication channel, the portable computer unit also integrating display means configured to reproduce the information displayed on the display device of the computer platform.

[0073] The portable computer unit allows an operator to monitor potential fire outbreaks remotely from the computer platform.

[0074] This makes it possible, for example, to ensure constant monitoring of the areas to be monitored without the need for dedicated operators.

[0075] From then on, a small farmer or an individual wishing to monitor his forest area can then use his portable computer unit to trigger the emergency intervention himself if he deems it necessary, or intervene directly at the site of the fire if he is able to do so.

[0076] The invention also relates to a detection device for a fire start detection system as previously described, characterized in that it comprises:- a protective housing;- at least one sensor housed in the housing, taking the form of an infrared type camera;- first communication means intended to cooperate with second remote communication means, and- a processing unit coupled to the sensor and to the first communication means, the processing unit being configured to carry out the comparison between two successive images coming from the sensor,- means for recording an identifier and geolocation data.

[0077] Such a detection device allows the implementation of a fire detection system as previously described, in a simple, rapid and autonomous manner.

[0078] In fact, thanks to the detection and processing of images directly by the sensor, the detection device makes it possible to transmit a reliable digital alert signal which can be verified as described previously.

[0079] In addition, the detection of a fire outbreak by infrared technology makes it possible to coordinate rapid emergency response to limit the risk of destruction by fire of the area to be monitored.

[0080] According to another advantageous aspect, the detection device also comprises at least one digital camera connected to the processing unit.

[0081] The digital camera makes it possible to verify the veracity of the digital alert in order to trigger, or not, the intervention of a rescue team.

[0082] This verification can be done visually by an operator, in order to discern the start of a fire from a temporary animal, human or material thermal signature.

[0083] The invention further relates to a method for detecting the start of a fire in an area to be monitored by means of a fire start detection system as previously described, characterized in that it comprises the steps of:- installing, in an area to be monitored, a plurality of detection devices in order to define a mesh of the area to be monitored;- acquiring, via each sensor, infrared images of the area to be monitored at regular intervals;- detecting a predetermined infrared level threshold in a first image;- comparing the infrared level of a second successive image with the first image to detect a localized increase in infrared radiation, and - if a localized increase in infrared radiation is detected, transmitting to the computer platform, via the communication channel, a digital alert signal including the unique identifier of the detection device and geolocation data stored in the recording means.;

[0084] Such a method makes it possible to create an optimized monitoring environment for an area to be monitored.

[0085] Indeed, the creation of a mesh by the arrangement of detection devices ensures effective surveillance coverage.

[0086] The detection of a fire outbreak can thus be carried out redundantly by several detection devices, which increases the credibility of a digital alert signal indicating the outbreak of a fire.

[0087] According to an advantageous aspect, the method also comprises a so-called doubt removal step consisting of: - sending, to each detection device having transmitted a digital alert signal, a request to take an instant photograph by the digital camera, said photograph being transmitted to the computer platform, via the communication channel, and - checking on the photographs the presence of significant characteristics of a fire outbreak.

[0088] Removing doubts helps avoid unnecessary emergency intervention.

[0089] This eliminates the costs of unnecessary emergency travel.

[0090] In addition, the material and physical resources of the emergency services can be kept available for real needs and not mobilized unnecessarily because of a false alarm.

[0091] According to another advantageous aspect, the method also comprises a so-called doubt removal step consisting of: - taking an instantaneous photograph using the digital camera, said photograph being transmitted to the computer platform, via the communication channel, simultaneously with the transmission of the digital alert signal, and - checking on the photographs the presence of significant characteristics of a fire outbreak.

[0092] The transmission of a snapshot simultaneously with the digital alert signal makes it easier to trigger the emergency response.

[0093] In fact, an operator can check for the presence of significant characteristics of a fire outbreak upon receipt of the digital alert signal, without resorting to an additional connection with the detection device, such a connection being able to delay the intervention of the emergency services in the event of limitation of the bandwidth of the communication channel.

[0094] If necessary, this doubt removal may be followed by a second doubt removal consisting of issuing, to each detection device having transmitted a digital alert signal, a request to take an instant photograph by the digital camera, said photograph being transmitted to the computer platform, via the communication channel, to verify, on the photographs, the presence of significant characteristics of a fire outbreak.

[0095] According to another advantageous aspect, the method also comprises a step consisting of carrying out geolocation of each detection device during its installation in the area to be monitored.

[0096] This makes it possible to streamline the processing of digital alert signals.

[0097] Thanks to the geolocation of detection devices, when an alert is issued, it is possible to precisely define a place of intervention.

[0098] By precisely defining the intervention location, rescue teams can then plan equipment adapted to the topography of the intervention location, to limit the risks of obstacles to their intervention.

[0099] According to another advantageous aspect, during the installation step, the detection devices are fixed on trees located in the area to be monitored, under the foliage of said trees.

[0100] This fixing of the detection devices then ensures effective and rapid detection of fire outbreaks.

[0101] This is explained by the fact that by being located under the canopy, and more precisely under the foliage of the trees, the detection devices can analyze the area to be monitored without obstacles to identify possible outbreaks of fires, for the benefit of the protection of the area to be monitored.

[0102] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear more clearly on reading the following description of preferred embodiments of the invention, given as illustrative and non-limiting examples, and the appended drawings among which:

[0103] is a schematic representation of a first embodiment of a fire outbreak detection system, according to the invention;

[0104] is a schematic representation of a second embodiment of a fire outbreak detection system, according to the invention,

[0105] is a schematic cross-sectional representation of a detection device of the fire outbreak detection system according to the invention.

[0106] Figures 1 and 2 schematically illustrate preferred embodiments of a fire outbreak detection system according to the invention.

[0107] The fire detection system can detect the start of a fire in a monitoring zone 1 in order to alert emergency services quickly to prevent the fire from spreading significantly and protect the monitoring zone 1.

[0108] For this, the fire outbreak detection system comprises a plurality of detection devices 2 and a computer platform 3 intended to receive information from the detection devices 2.

[0109] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the detection devices 2 are arranged in the area to be monitored 1 so as to create a mesh of the area to be monitored 1.

[0110] With reference to the, each detection device 2 integrates, at least:- a sensor 4 of a physical characteristic of a fire outbreak;- a processing unit 5;- first communication means 6;- recording means 7, intended to memorize a unique identifier of the detection device 2.

[0111] More precisely, each sensor 4 of a physical characteristic of a fire outbreak is in this case an infrared type camera.

[0112] With reference to figures 1 and 2, the computer platform 3 includes:- a database 8 relating to the detection devices 2 and listing the unique identifiers of all the detection devices 2, and- second means of communication 9.

[0113] The second communication means 9 are intended to cooperate with the first communication means 6 of the detection devices 2 to form a communication path 10.

[0114] Each detection device 2 is configured to, at a minimum:- acquire, via the sensors 4, infrared images of the area to be monitored 1 at regular intervals;- detect a predetermined infrared level threshold in a first image;- compare the infrared level of a second successive image with the first image, to detect a localized increase in infrared radiation, and- if a localized increase in infrared radiation is detected, transmit to the computer platform 3, via the communication channel 10, a digital alert signal including the unique identifier of the detection device 2 and geolocation data stored in the recording means 7.

[0115] For this, the processing unit 5 integrates a calculator allowing the implementation of a clock to determine the regular intervals.

[0116] The processing unit 5 also makes it possible to compare the two images coming from the sensor 4.

[0117] For this purpose, the processing unit 5 integrates an algorithm making it possible to translate each image into infrared level zones.

[0118] From the two images, the algorithm makes it possible to isolate and determine a change in the intensity of the infrared radiation as well as its spatial change, i.e. the increase in the size of a high infrared intensity on the second image. The algorithm can carry out this analysis of two successive images incrementally, i.e. between a first image and a second image, then between the second image and a third image, then between the third image and a fourth image, and so on. This makes it possible to maintain or not the emission of the digital alert signal by the detection device 2.

[0119] For informational and non-limiting purposes, the threshold from which the digital alert signal can be emitted by the detection device 2 is exceeded when the infrared level corresponds to a temperature greater than or equal to 60°C for an image acquired during the day, and when the infrared level corresponds to a temperature greater than or equal to 50°C for an image acquired at night. The differentiation between day and night can be carried out either in a photosensitive manner, or by a manual and predetermined configuration, or according to a law for time-stamping the images.

[0120] According to a first embodiment of the fire start detection system, illustrated by the, each detection device 2 is in direct communication with the computer platform 3.

[0121] In other words, the communication channel 10 is divided into as many channels as the fire detection system comprises detection devices 2.

[0122] According to a second embodiment of the fire start detection system, illustrated by the, each detection device 2 is in indirect communication with the computer platform 3.

[0123] More specifically, the fire detection system includes a gateway P which splits the communication channel 10 into two parts.

[0124] Each of the detection devices 2 then communicated directly with the gateway P which forms an interface with the computer platform 3.

[0125] This configuration makes it possible to limit the necessary range of the first means of communication 6 to reduce the energy consumption of the detection devices 2. Also, this configuration allows detection devices 2 located outside the range of existing communication networks to be able to transmit the digital alert signal to the computer platform 3.

[0126] Thus, it is necessary that only the gateway P, which can be connected to an existing electrical network, has long-distance communication means to complete the communication channel 10. By way of non-limiting example, the gateway P can use the Internet network to communicate with the IT platform 3.

[0127] This limits the overall energy consumption of the fire detection system and allows it to be used in remote areas where power supply from a national grid is difficult or even impossible.

[0128] Furthermore, when one of the detection devices 2 is out of communication range of the gateway P or the computing platform 3, its connectivity with the other detection devices 2, thanks to the mesh, can ensure the transmission of a possible digital alert signal to the computing platform 3 or the gateway P.

[0129] This therefore makes it possible to maintain surveillance of the area to be monitored 1 even if the detection devices 2 are far from the gateway P or the IT platform 3.

[0130] With reference to figures 1 and 2, the computer platform 3 also comprises at least one display device 11 for displaying the geolocation data of the detection device 2 having emitted the digital alert signal.

[0131] By means of the display device 11, a user can verify the veracity of the digital alert signal, i.e. the presence of a fire outbreak in the area to be monitored 1.

[0132] For this, each detection device 2 also integrates at least one digital camera 12.

[0133] The computer platform 3 is then configured to transmit, to each detection device 2, and via the communication channel 10, having transmitted a digital alert signal, a request to take a snapshot by the digital camera 12.

[0134] To do this, the computer platform 3 then includes an ad hoc communication interface allowing the user to interact with the detection devices 2 of the fire outbreak detection system.

[0135] Each detection device 12 is then configured to execute said snapshot upon receipt of the request and transmit it to the computer platform 3 via the communication channel 10, to be displayed on the display device 11.

[0136] In other words, when a digital alert signal is emitted by at least one of the detection devices 2, a user can visually check the presence of a fire starting in the area to be monitored 1 and trigger, if necessary, the intervention of a rescue team to prevent the fire from spreading.

[0137] This makes it possible in particular to prevent the presence of an animal, or any other phenomenon, whose thermal signature is perceived as a localized increase in infrared radiation in the area to be monitored 1, from being considered as the start of a fire and leading to the unjustified intervention of a rescue team.

[0138] Indeed, the unjustified intervention of a rescue team generates significant costs and a significant mobilization of resources which could be allocated to a justified intervention.

[0139] However, according to an alternative embodiment, the processing unit 5 can be configured to control the digital camera 12 as soon as a fire starts to be detected, so as to transmit a doubt removal image simultaneously with the transmission of the digital alert signal.

[0140] The request will then be triggered to confirm the initial conclusions of the observation of the image transmitted with the digital alert signal.

[0141] With reference to the, the detection device 2 comprises a protective housing 13 in which the processing unit 5, the first communication means 6 and the recording means 7 are housed.

[0142] The detection device 2 also comprises a case 14 mechanically connected to the housing 13, and inside which the or each sensor 4 and the or each digital camera 12 are housed.

[0143] The case 14 is connected to the housing 13 by means of an arm 15.

[0144] According to the embodiment illustrated in the, the housing 13 integrates means for moving the or each sensor 4 and the or each digital camera 12.

[0145] The movement means take the form of motor means 16 to which the arm 15 is connected.

[0146] This thus makes it possible to rotate the case 14 by means of the arm 15 around an axis of rotation along which the arm 15 extends.

[0147] This makes it possible to modify the shooting angle of the sensors 4 and digital cameras 12 in order to ensure scanning of the area to be monitored 1.

[0148] According to a first variant embodiment, the detection device 2 comprises a single sensor 4 and a single camera 12.

[0149] The case 14 is thus movable to allow rotation of the sensor 4 and the digital camera 12 in order to scan the area to be monitored.

[0150] In this case, the sensor 4 and the digital camera 12 have an opening angle for capturing images of between 120° and 180°, or even between 10° and 180°.

[0151] According to a second embodiment, the sensor 4 and the digital camera each have an opening angle of less than 180°, for example of the order of 60°.

[0152] In this case, the case 14 integrates three sensors 4 and three digital cameras each distributed angularly at 60°. Thus, the set of sensors 4 and digital cameras 12 allows a 180° scan of the area to be monitored 1.

[0153] In this case, the motorization of the case 14 relative to the box 13 is not obligatory.

[0154] However, to refine, if necessary, the taking of images, in particular by the digital camera 12 when removing doubts, the detection device 2 can retain the motor means 16 making it possible to make the case mobile in rotation relative to the housing 13.

[0155] Generally speaking, depending on the opening angle of each sensor 4 and each digital camera 12, the number of sensors 4 and digital cameras 12 is chosen so as to allow a scan of the area to be monitored by the detection device 2 of 180°, where appropriate supplemented by the addition of the motor means 16 to allow the rotation of the case 14.

[0156] In other words, if the number of sensors 4 and digital cameras 12 and their respective aperture does not allow, in a fixed manner, a 180° scan of the zone 1 to be monitored, then the detection device 2 will be provided with motor means 16 to allow the pivoting of the case 14 and thus enlarge the angular scanning zone of the detection device 2.

[0157] Still with reference to the, in order to make it energetically autonomous, the detection device 2 has an external support 17 which extends radially around the housing 13, and supports means 18 for capturing solar energy.

[0158] The detection device 2 then integrates an electric battery 19 housed in the housing 13 and connected to the capture means 18 to store the captured solar energy and restore it to the various elements of the detection device 2, namely the or each sensor 4, the processing unit 5, the first communication means 6, the recording means 7, the or each digital camera 12 and, where appropriate, the motor means 16.

[0159] The means 18 for capturing solar energy are presented, for example, in the form of a photosensitive film making it possible to capture the brightness in places not directly reached by the sun's rays, such as for example in forests, under the canopy, and more particularly under the foliage of trees.

[0160] According to an alternative embodiment, the housing 13 has transparent zones behind which photovoltaic cells are located. Reflectors can also be arranged on either side of each photovoltaic cell to amplify the light radiation and, thus, maximize the production of electrical energy stored in the battery 19.

[0161] Other energy capture means may also be provided to power the battery 19 of the device. For example, these other capture means may exploit wind energy.

[0162] In order to further improve the effectiveness of the detection device 2, the case 14 may also include secondary sensors 20 making it possible to detect physical phenomena of a fire starting, such as the outside temperature, the humidity, the level of fine particles in the air, the carbon level, the oxygen level, etc.

[0163] Furthermore, each detection device 2 can integrate a backup battery S allowing power to be supplied to the detection device 2 when the battery 19 is faulty or when its recharging is no longer ensured.

[0164] In this case, each detection device 2 may also include ad hoc means for detecting a failure of the battery 19 or its recharging.

[0165] With reference to figures 1 and 2, the fire start detection system also comprises at least one portable computer unit 21 integrating third communication means 22 and display means 23.

[0166] The third communication means 22 are configured to cooperate with the second communication means 9 of the computer platform 3 in order to form a second communication channel 24.

[0167] Thus, when a user does not have direct access to the computer platform 3, he can, remotely, interact with the latter, via the portable computer unit 21.

[0168] The portable computer unit 21 may in particular be in the form of a computer, a smartphone or a digital tablet for example.

[0169] The display means 23 of the portable computer unit 21 are configured to reproduce the information displayed on the display device 11 of the computer platform 3.

[0170] Furthermore, the portable computer unit 21 can integrate a computer application allowing either the remote transmission of the request to take a snapshot by the digital camera 12, or the control of the computer platform 3 to transmit said request.

[0171] The detection of a fire outbreak is carried out using a process implementing the fire outbreak detection system which has just been described.

[0172] This method comprises the steps of:- installing, in the area to be monitored 1, a plurality of detection devices 2 in order to define a mesh of the area to be monitored 1;- acquiring via each sensor 4 infrared images of the area to be monitored 1 at regular intervals;- detecting a predetermined threshold of infrared level in a first image;- comparing the infrared level of a second successive image with the first image to detect a localized increase in infrared radiation and,- if a localized increase in infrared radiation is detected, transmitting to the computer platform 3, via the communication channel 10, a digital alert signal.

[0173] As explained previously, to verify the veracity of a fire outbreak, the method also comprises a so-called doubt removal step consisting of: - sending, to each detection device 2 having transmitted a digital alert signal, a request to take an instantaneous photograph by the digital camera 12, said photograph being transmitted to the computer platform 3 via the communication channel 10, and - verifying on the photographs the presence of significant characteristics of a fire outbreak.

[0174] This verification step is carried out visually by an operator who analyses the images to detect, for example, flames or smoke.

[0175] When removing doubt, it may happen that the operator detects an animal, or any other phenomenon, whose thermal signature causes a localized increase in the infrared level between two successive images.

[0176] In this case, the operator does not trigger the dispatch of emergency services since the doubt removal operation makes it possible to characterize the presence of an increase in infrared level between two successive images as being linked to the presence of an animal, or any other phenomenon, and not the start of a fire.

[0177] When installing each detection device 2 in the area to be monitored 1, a step consisting of carrying out a geolocation of each detection device 2 is carried out.

[0178] In other words, when a detection device is installed in the area to be monitored 1, its position is recorded.

[0179] This positioning can be carried out either automatically in the case where the detection device is provided with a GPS module capable of recording in the recording means 7 the position or geolocation of the detection device, or manually.

[0180] In this case, the operator carrying out the installation of the detection devices 2 uses a GPS beacon, or any suitable geolocation device, and records, or manually enters via an ad hoc interface, the geolocation coordinates of the device in the recording means 7.

[0181] Thus, when a detection device 2 transmits an alert signal to the computer platform 3, via the first communication channel 10, it transmits on the one hand its unique identifier, and on the other hand its geolocation coordinates so that the computer unit can display the detection device 2 and its positioning to allow an operator to trigger the precise emergency intervention.

[0182] When installed, the detection devices 2 are fixed directly to the trees located in the area to be monitored 1, under the foliage of the trees.

[0183] According to an alternative embodiment, each detection device 2 can be associated with a mast and planted in the area to be monitored 1.

[0184] In this case, each detection device 2 is located at the top of said mast.

[0185] To enable 360° detection, each detection device 2 may comprise several sensors 4 and digital cameras 12 depending on their respective opening angles.

[0186] Alternatively, each detection device 2 may comprise a single sensor 4 and a single digital camera 12, in which case, the motor means 16 make it possible to rotate the sensor 4 and the digital camera 12 to ensure 360° surveillance.

[0187] For informational and non-limiting purposes, the detection devices 2 are generally separated from each other by a distance of between 50m and 200m.

[0188] However, the separation distance between two detection devices 3 could be greater than 200m, the first means of communication 6 then being chosen according to the separation between the detection devices 2 and according to the access to the communication standards and protocols by all the detection devices 2 of the fire start detection system.

[0189] The fire detection system just described, and its implementation method, make it possible to quickly and accurately identify the start of a fire in an area to be monitored, and to trigger the intervention of a rescue team when necessary.

[0190] In other words, thanks to the removal of doubt, an operator can verify that a digital alarm signal is indeed linked to the start of a fire and not the presence of an animal, a human or a motorized vehicle, or any other phenomenon that could release heat locally and temporarily.

[0191] Therefore, by checking the start of the fire, the operator can trigger the intervention of the emergency services only if necessary.

[0192] This makes it possible to limit unjustified emergency interventions, as these interventions generate significant costs and require significant mobilization of resources that could be allocated to a justified intervention.

[0193] Other advantageous features of the fire detection system just described can be cited.

[0194] First, energy management can be optimized by using very low power consumption components.

[0195] Then, periodic standby of the main functions can be carried out when they are not in use, for example interrupting communications between the computing platform 2 and the detection devices 2.

[0196] In addition, low-power communication technologies can be used in the fire detection system.

[0197] Furthermore, the use of high-efficiency, low-self-discharge accumulators to form the batteries 19 can be chosen.

[0198] Finally, the communications between the computing platform 3 and the detection devices 2 or the portable computing units 21, i.e. the establishment of the first communication channel 10 and the second communication channel 24, can implement technologies and protocols such as, but not limited to, 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G, LTE M1, Bluetooth or even Wi-Fi, which are known and allow communication with low energy consumption.

[0199] A communication network between the different detection devices 2 installed in the area to be monitored 1 can also be provided to create additional passageways allowing information to be transmitted by relaying it through the different detection devices 2 to the gateway P or to the computer platform 3.

[0200] The analysis of the infrared images can be carried out automatically by the processing unit 5 of each detection device 2, digitally, that is to say by using calculation tools making it possible to detect, between two images, the evolution of an average, a standard deviation, a derivative or even an integral of the infrared radiation present on the images.

[0201] Furthermore, thanks to the processing unit 5, each detection device 2 can carry out self-learning to refine the detection of fire outbreaks.

[0202] Indeed, when each detection device 2 transmits a digital alert signal to the computer platform 3, and in the case where the removal of doubt makes it possible to refute the hypothesis of a fire starting, the processing unit 5 and the recording means 7 can integrate the characteristic data having generated the emission of the digital alert signal in order to limit the sending of new alerts for similar configurations of detection of a localized increase in the infrared level.

[0203] In other words, it makes it possible to identify situations in which the presence of animals, humans, motorized vehicles or any other phenomenon could be interpreted as the start of a fire.

[0204] The database 8 of the IT platform 3 also makes it possible to record the various digital alert signals as they occur, in order to produce statistics to identify, for example, the locations most at risk, or to recognize or identify a possible failure of a detection device 2 which would generate incessant but erroneous alerts.

[0205] In addition, these statistics can help identify animal passage areas, for example migratory currents, or the evolution of any other environmental parameters such as temperature, humidity, fine particle levels, or even carbon dioxide levels.

[0206] The computer platform 3, via the first communication channel 10, can also allow interaction with each detection device 2 located in the area to be monitored 1 in order to modify its operating parameters or simply carry out an update.

[0207] This action can also be carried out from the remote computer unit 21, via the computer platform 3.

Claims

Fire start detection system, comprising: - a plurality of detection devices (2) forming a mesh of an area to be monitored (1), each detection device (2) integrating recording means (7) capable of memorizing a unique identifier and including at least one sensor (4) of a physical characteristic of a fire start, a processing unit (5) and first means of communication (6); - a computer platform (3) including a database (8) relating to the detection devices (2) and listing the unique identifiers of all the detection devices (2) and of the second means of communication (9) intended to cooperate with the first means of communication (6) to form a communication channel (10);characterized in that each sensor (4) of each detection device (2) is an infrared camera, and in that each detection device (2) is configured to: - acquire, via the sensors (4), infrared images of the area to be monitored (1) at regular intervals; - detect a predetermined infrared level threshold in a first image, and - compare the infrared level of a second successive image with the first image to detect a localized increase in infrared radiation, and - if a localized increase in infrared radiation is detected, transmit to the computer platform (3), via the communication channel (10), a digital alert signal including the unique identifier of the detection device (2) and geolocation data stored in the recording means (7). System according to claim 1, characterized in that the computer platform (3) also includes at least one display device (11) for displaying the geolocation data of the detection device (2) which emitted the digital alert signal. System according to the preceding claim, characterized in that each detection device (2) also integrates at least one digital camera (12), and in that the computer platform (3) is configured to send, to each detection device (2) which has transmitted a digital alert signal, a request to take a snapshot by the digital camera (12), each detection device (2) being configured to execute said snapshot upon receipt of the request and to transmit it to the computer platform (3), via the communication channel (10), to be displayed on the display device (11). System according to claim 2, characterized in that each detection device (2) also integrates at least one digital camera (12), and in that the processing unit (5) is configured to take an instant snapshot by the digital camera (12), and transmit said snapshot to the computer platform (3) simultaneously with the digital alert signal, via the communication channel (10), to be displayed on the display device (11). System according to the preceding claim, characterized in that each detection device (2) integrates means for moving the or each sensor (4) and / or digital camera (12). System according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each detection device (2) comprises a protective housing (13) and an electric battery (19) to power each sensor (4), the processing unit (5), the first means of communication (6) and / or the digital camera(s) (12). System according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the housing (13) includes an external support (17), and in that each detection device (2) integrates means for capturing (18) solar energy for recharging the battery (19). System according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the means for capturing solar energy (18) are in the form of a photosensitive film. System according to claims 1 and 2, characterized in that it also comprises at least one portable computing unit (21) held by at least one user of the system, each portable computing unit (21) incorporating third means of communication (22) intended to cooperate with second means of communication (9) to form a second communication channel (24), the portable computing unit (21) also incorporating display means (23) configured to reproduce the information displayed on the display device (11) of the computing platform (3). A detection device (2) for a fire detection system according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises: - a protective housing (13); - at least one sensor (4) housed in the housing (13), taking the form of an infrared camera; - first communication means (6) intended to cooperate with remote second communication means (9), and - a processing unit (5) coupled to the sensor (4) and the first communication means (6), the processing unit (5) being configured to perform the comparison between two successive images from the sensor (4), - means for recording an identifier and geolocation data. Detection device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that it also comprises at least one digital camera (12) connected to the processing unit (5). Method for detecting the start of a fire in a monitored area (1) by means of a fire detection system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that it comprises the steps of: - installing, in a monitored area (1), a plurality of detection devices (2) in order to define a mesh of the monitored area (1); - acquiring, via each sensor (4), infrared images of the monitored area (1) at regular intervals; - detecting a predetermined infrared level threshold in a first image;- compare the infrared level of a second successive image with the first image to detect a localized increase in infrared radiation, and - if a localized increase in infrared radiation is detected, transmit to the computer platform (3), via the communication channel (10), a digital alert signal including the unique identifier of the detection device (2) and geolocation data stored in the recording means (7). Method according to the preceding claim, characterized in that it also includes a so-called doubt-relief step consisting of: - issuing, to each detection device (2) which has transmitted a digital alert signal, a request to take an instant snapshot by the digital camera (12), said snapshot being transmitted to the computer platform, via the communication channel (10), and - verifying on the snapshots the presence of significant characteristics of a fire starting. Method according to claim 12, characterized in that it also includes a so-called doubt-relief step consisting of: - taking an instant snapshot with the digital camera (12), said snapshot being transmitted to the computer platform, via the communication channel (10), simultaneously with the transmission of the digital alert signal, and - checking on the snapshots for the presence of significant characteristics of a fire starting. Method according to any one of claims 12 to 14, characterized in that it also includes a step of carrying out a geolocation of each detection device (2) when it is installed in the area to be monitored (1). A method according to any one of claims 12 to 15, characterized in that, during the installation step, the detection devices (2) are fixed on trees located in the area to be monitored (1), under the foliage of said trees.

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