Fire protection system and method for controlling said system

Abstract

The invention relates to a fire protection system (200) for drawing water from a swimming pool, said swimming pool comprising at least one suction inlet connected via a pipe (121) to a first filtration pump (120), said system (200) being characterized in that it comprises: - a second pump (220), connected on one side to said suction inlet and on the other side to a discharge pipe (230) intended to allow the connection of a fire hose, and - a control module (250) capable of controlling the stopping of said first filtration pump (120) and the starting of said second pump (220), upon receipt of an activation signal emitted by a set of remote controls (260). Figure for the abstract: Fig. 1

Description

Title of the invention: Fire protection system and method for controlling said system

[0001] The present invention relates to the protection of dwellings and the environment against fires. More particularly, it relates to a fire protection system for drawing water from a swimming pool.

[0002] Climate change is leading to increasingly frequent heat waves and a heightened risk of fires. Therefore, it is crucial to protect the environment and homes from these fires. At the same time, due to this climate change, the availability of drinking water is becoming a major issue, and consumers must pay increasingly close attention to their water consumption. To avoid drawing water from the drinking water supply to extinguish a fire, one solution is to use water from swimming pools.

[0003] To remove water from swimming pools, firefighters generally use water pumping trucks. In this case, a hose is connected to the suction pump on board the truck and unrolled to the pool. However, it is necessary to be able to get the truck close to the pool, which is not always possible depending on the terrain.

[0004] To overcome this problem of access to the pool by fire truck, there are floating motor pumps specially manufactured for firefighters, which allow them to draw water from the surface and discharge it via a flexible hose, either to fill a tanker truck or to directly extinguish a fire. The drawback of these motor pumps is that they are heavy (around fifty kilograms) and contain a combustion engine requiring fuel, which can be risky near a fire.

[0005] Other motor pumps are marketed for private individuals, so they can protect their homes in the event of a fire while waiting for the fire department to arrive. For example, the device sold under the brand name "POOLSAM" allows a private individual to easily set up their motor pump in case of fire. To do this, the user unrolls a suction hose connected to the motor pump and a flexible discharge hose connected on one end to the motor pump and on the other to a fire hose. They then immerse a strainer, attached to the end of the suction hose, in the pool water, prime the motor pump, and then, when the motor pump is at its maximum flow rate, they open the fire hose. The drawback of these motor pumps lies in the fact that they include a combustion engine that uses fuel. As with motor pumps intended for firefighters, handling fuel to fill them requires The pump's fuel tank, located near a fire, remains very risky for the user, especially if they are not a fire professional. Furthermore, using a combustion engine requires regular running for maintenance. Consequently, if the device is stored all winter without its engine being regularly serviced, it may not function when needed.

[0006] Another device, marketed by Astral Pool under the trademark "POOL FIRE PROTECT", consists of connecting a flexible discharge hose, the end of which is connected to a fire hose, to a pipe in the pool's filtration system. For this purpose, a set of ball valves or a three-way valve is installed downstream of the filtration pump, relative to the direction of water flow in the filtration circuit: either on the pump's discharge outlet, to allow the pumped water to flow towards the fire hose's discharge pipe rather than towards the filtration equipment; or on the drain outlet pipe intended to discharge the backwash water from the filtration equipment, to allow the pumped water to flow towards the fire hose's discharge pipe rather than towards the wastewater system.A primary drawback of this solution lies in the fact that it requires knowing how to operate the correct valves on the water treatment system located in the equipment room at the right time, all while using the fire hose to extinguish the fire. Indeed, under normal pool operating conditions, the valve on the line from the vacuum port is closed, the valve on the line from the skimmers is open, and the valve on the line from the main drain is closed or partially open. However, in a fire situation, the valve on the line from the skimmers must be closed to prevent air from being drawn into the pump, and the valve on the line from the main drain must be fully opened. In the stress of fighting the fire, there is therefore a risk of incorrectly operating these valves.Furthermore, when firefighters need to intervene while the owner is not present, they cannot access the technical room and therefore cannot use the fire protection system. Moreover, while the water column in a standard pool installation is generally around ten meters, connecting a fire hose equipped with a nozzle extends the water column to approximately eighteen meters, which roughly doubles the pressure loss compared to a standard installation. Consequently, while the flow rate of the filtration pump might be fifteen cubic meters per hour in a standard installation, it can drop to five cubic meters per hour when this fire protection system is connected, due to the pressure loss. The filtration pump is therefore under considerable strain, impacting its lifespan. Furthermore, even if the water pressure at the fire hose outlet is sufficient, the flow rate is far too low to effectively fight a fire.

[0007] In addition to the drawbacks mentioned above for each of the existing devices, none of these devices protects the existing pool installation, and in particular the filtration pump. Indeed, if the fire protection device were to draw all the water from the pool, the filtration pump would end up drawing in air instead of water, which would damage it.

[0008] The invention therefore aims to remedy at least one of the drawbacks of the prior art by providing a fire protection system for drawing water from a swimming pool. This system allows for the safe pumping of water from a swimming pool while protecting the electrical equipment of the water treatment system, located in the technical room, and in particular the filtration pump. It requires no intervention in the technical room during operation and provides a jet of water from the fire hose with sufficient characteristics to effectively combat a fire. To this end, the water flow rate from the fire hose must be greater than or equal to thirteen cubic meters per hour, the length of the water jet projected by the fire hose must be at least ten meters to protect the operator, and the water pressure must be greater than or equal to one bar.Finally, the fire protection system according to the invention must be able to be installed both on swimming pool installations under construction and on installations undergoing renovation.

[0009] To this end, the invention relates to a fire protection system for drawing water from a swimming pool, said swimming pool comprising at least one suction inlet connected, via a pipe, to a first filtration pump, said system being characterized in that it comprises: - a second pump, connected on one side to the aforementioned suction inlet and on the other side to a discharge pipe, intended to allow the connection of a fire hose, - and a control module arranged to control the stopping of said first filtration pump and the starting of said second pump, upon receipt of an activation signal emitted by a set of remote controls.

[0010] Thus, the fire protection system commands the first filtration pump to stop before the second pump is activated, so that the first filtration pump, connected to the pool's filtration equipment, is protected. Installing a second pump, dedicated to the fire protection system, protects the pool's water treatment system and ensures adequate pressure and flow at the fire hose outlet. Furthermore, the fact that the system is controlled by a control module upon receiving an activation signal emitted by a remote control system, requires no intervention in the technical room where the pool water treatment system is located.

[0011] According to other optional system features:

[0012] The remote control assembly includes an engagement means designed to arm the system and an validation means designed to validate the activation of the system;

[0013] it further includes an audible and / or visual alarm, the operation of which is controlled by order of the control module upon receipt of an arming signal emitted by said interlocking means;

[0014] it includes a water flow controller disposed in said discharge pipe and connected to the control module to send it water flow information;

[0015] it further includes a monitoring means designed to send a message to one or more predetermined recipient(s) in the event of activation of said system, said message including at least one geolocation information for said system;

[0016] it is electrically powered by means of a photovoltaic panel;

[0017] it further includes a pressure switch designed to stop said second pump when the pressure exceeds a pre-calibrated maximum threshold value;

[0018] it comprises a first non-return valve disposed upstream of said first filtration pump and a second non-return valve disposed upstream of said second pump;

[0019] it includes an automatic three-way valve, disposed on the pipe connecting said bottom drain to said first filtration pump and to said second pump, said automatic valve being controlled by said control module.

[0020] The invention further relates to a method of controlling the fire protection system described above, characterized in that it comprises the following steps: - a step of arming said system; - a validation step for the activation of said system; - a stopping step of said first filtration pump and; - an activation step for said second pump.

[0021] According to other features of the process:

[0022] when the fire protection system is armed, the control method further includes a step of triggering an audible and / or visual alarm;

[0023] when the fire protection system is armed, the control method further includes an initialization and triggering step of a first time delay during which the validation step of the system activation must be carried out;

[0024] when said first pump is stopped, said control method further includes an initialization and triggering step of a second time delay, at the end of which the activation step of said second pump is carried out;

[0025] said control method further includes a step of detecting flow information sent by the flow controller and a step of stopping said second pump when said flow information corresponds to a zero water flow or to a water flow measured in the discharge pipe less than or equal to a predetermined minimum threshold value;

[0026] The control method further includes an initialization and triggering step of a third predetermined time delay, to allow said second pump to prime itself.

[0027] The invention finally relates to a computer program comprising program code instructions for the execution of the steps of the system control method described above, when said program is executed by a processor.

[0028] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the description given by way of illustrative and non-limiting example, with reference to the accompanying figures which represent:

[0029] [Fig. 1], a simplified diagram of a swimming pool water treatment system equipped with a fire protection system according to a first embodiment,

[0030] [Fig.2], a simplified diagram of a swimming pool water treatment installation equipped with a fire protection system according to a second embodiment,

[0031] [Fig.3], a functional synoptic diagram of the fire protection system according to the invention,

[0032] [Fig.4], a flowchart representing the steps of the fire protection system control process according to the invention.

[0033] In the following description, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" are defined with respect to the direction of water flow in the water treatment plant.

[0034] In the following description, "water treatment system" means a system for filtering swimming pool water. This system may also include chemical treatments, such as the addition of products to restore the water's pH, for example.

[0035] The term "suction inlet" refers to any inlet located in the swimming pool and connected to a pipe, through which the filtration pump can draw water. Generally, there are several suction inlets in a swimming pool. These include skimmers, a vacuum port, and / or a main drain.

[0036] Figure 1 schematically illustrates a fire protection system 200 according to the invention connected to a conventional swimming pool water treatment system. A first pump 120, also called the "filtration pump" because it is connected to A filtration unit 130 is connected to at least one pool suction inlet and pumps water from this suction inlet via a pipe 121 to the filtration unit 130 via a pipe 123. Once treated, the water is then returned to the pool via a discharge pipe 124. Another pipe 125 connects the filtration unit 130 to the wastewater system, allowing the dirty water to be discharged to the wastewater treatment system during a cleaning operation of the filtration unit 130. Valves 122, 131, and 132 are also provided on the pipes to control the flow of water from one or more suction inlets, either back to the pool after treatment by the filtration unit 130 or back to the wastewater system after cleaning the filtration unit 130.The fire protection system 200 according to the invention connects to a pipe 121 coming from a suction inlet of the pool. Preferably, it connects to the pipe 121 coming from the main drain of the pool. If necessary, it can be connected to another pipe coming from another suction inlet of the pool, such as the skimmers, for example. Thus, a second pump 220, also referred to as the "fire pump" in the rest of the description, is connected to a suction inlet of the pool, preferably the main drain, and to a discharge pipe 230, intended to allow the connection of a fire hose. For this, the end of the 230 discharge pipe, to which the fire hose is connected, includes a 232 fire hose fitting. In France, for example, fire hose fittings are symmetrical fittings of the Guillemain type or of the DSP type (acronym for Dubois Spécial Paris).The fire hose connection 232 for the discharge pipe 230 is located outside the building housing the water treatment plant, allowing the fire hose to be connected directly to the plant from the outside. The fire hose connection 232 can also be fitted with a plug or check valve to prevent small animals from entering the discharge pipe 230 when it is not in use.

[0037] A control module 250 allows the stopping of the first filtration pump 120 and the activation of the second fire pump 220. The commands of the control module 250 are represented by dashed arrows in figures 1 to 3, while the data received by the control module 250 are represented by dashed arrows.

[0038] A flow controller 231 is advantageously located in the discharge pipe 230 to control the flow rate of the water discharged by the second fire pump 220, and is connected to the control module 250. A flow controller is defined as any system that measures or detects the flow rate of water in a pipe. Such a flow controller can therefore take the form of a detector The flow rate sensor then sends a binary signal, "1" or "0", to the control module 250 via a dry contact, depending on whether or not it detects flow in the pipe. In another embodiment, the flow controller 231 can be a flow meter that sends the flow rate value it measures in the pipe back to the control module 250. In yet another embodiment, the flow controller 231 can be a pressure sensor that allows the control module to determine, based on the pressure measured in the pipe, whether or not there is flow in the discharge pipe 230.

[0039] When the flow controller 231 is in the form of a detector, it includes a paddle immersed in the water flow which acts on a contactor, which sends a flow information, for example "1" or "0", to the control module 250 to control respectively the maintenance of operation or the stopping of the second pump 220 depending on whether flow is detected or not.

[0040] When the flow controller 231 is in the form of a flow meter, it measures the flow rate in the pipeline and sends the measured value to the control module, which compares it to a predetermined minimum threshold value. When the measured flow rate is below this minimum threshold value, the control module 250 commands the second pump to stop, and when the measured flow rate is above this minimum threshold value, the control module commands the second pump to continue operating.

[0041] When the flow controller 231 is in the form of a pressure sensor, it measures the water pressure in the pipeline and sends the measured pressure value to the control module 250. The control module then compares the measured pressure value to a predetermined minimum threshold pressure value. If the measured pressure value is lower than the minimum threshold value, for example 0.1 bar, this means that the water flow is insufficient and the control module commands the fire pump to stop.

[0042] The flow controller 231 thus protects the second pump 220. Indeed, as soon as the water flow from this second pump 220 is zero or becomes too low, and less than or equal to a predetermined minimum threshold value, due to a blocked pipe for example or a closed valve or an obstruction of the pump 220 or any other reason affecting the flow, the flow controller 231 sends a flow information, for example "0" in the detector example, to the control module 250, in order to stop the pump 220. As soon as the water flow in the discharge pipe is not zero, the flow controller 231 sends a flow information, "1" in the detector example, to the control module 250, to keep the pump 220 running.

[0043] The filtration pumps 120 of existing swimming pool water treatment systems are generally not capable of operating with significant pressure losses over an average water column of eighteen meters, nor of delivering the desired water flow and pressure at the fire hose outlet. Adding a second pump 220 dedicated to the operation of the fire protection system 200, and not using the filtration pump 120, allows, on the one hand, the system 200 to operate without regard to the technical room and its component equipment, and on the other hand, delivers sufficient water flow and pressure at the fire hose outlet to fight a fire.

[0044] By way of illustrative and non-limiting example, the second pump 220 could, for instance, be a pump manufactured by Pentair, from the range marketed under the trade name "Ultraflow". Such a pump can operate at a pressure between one and five bar and is capable of delivering a flow rate of up to thirty-three cubic meters per hour. Consequently, with the pressure losses associated with a water column of approximately eighteen meters, such a pump is still capable of delivering a water flow rate greater than or equal to thirteen cubic meters per hour at the fire hose outlet, in accordance with requirements.

[0045] For safety, a valve 222 may be provided upstream of the second fire pump 220. Such a valve 222 may, for example, be useful during maintenance work on the second pump 220. Advantageously, a first check valve 224 is located upstream of the first filtration pump 120 and a second check valve 223 is located upstream of the second pump 220. These check valves protect the system by guiding the flow of water in the pipes according to which pump is operating, without human intervention. These check valves effectively eliminate the need to operate the valves 122 and 222 of the water treatment system in the technical room.

[0046] According to another embodiment, as schematically shown in [Fig. 2], these check valves can be replaced by a three-way solenoid valve 226, located on the pipe 121 connecting a pool suction inlet, preferably the main drain, to the first filtration pump 120 and the second fire pump 220, said solenoid valve 226 being controlled by the control module 250. In this case, the solenoid valve 226 is controlled to switch between a first position allowing the flow of water from the main drain to the first filtration pump 120 and a second position allowing the flow of water from the main drain to the second fire pump 220. Such a solenoid valve 226 can, for example, be a valve marketed under the reference "Besgo 3-way" by the Swiss company Besgo. Such a solenoid valve 226 is operated by compressed air via a small integrated compressor and electrically controlled. Thus, the switching of the solenoid valve 226 from the first position to the second position and vice versa is controlled by the control module 250 simultaneously with the stop command of the first filtration pump 120 and vice versa.

[0047] Finally, a pressure switch, not shown in the figures, can also be connected to the second fire pump 220. Such a pressure switch includes a pressure relief valve that cuts off the power supply to the fire pump 220 as soon as the pressure at the pump outlet exceeds a maximum threshold pressure, for example, five bar, which has been previously calibrated. Such a pressure switch protects the hydraulic circuit of the installation and the second fire pump 220 from excessive pressure, which can occur, for example, when the second fire pump 220 is operating and the fire hose valve is closed.

[0048] Figure 3 shows a functional block diagram of the fire protection system 200 according to the invention, and Figure 4 shows a flowchart of the steps in the control process for this system. For the sake of simplicity, Figures 3 and 4 are described simultaneously. In the flowchart of Figure 4, certain optional steps are shown with dashed lines.

[0049] The fire protection system 200 includes a control module 250 which, upon receiving input signals, controls the stopping of the filtration pump 120 and the activation of the fire pump 220, or vice versa. This control module 250 can, for example, be in the form of a programmable logic controller (PLC). Such a PLC includes a microcontroller that reads and interprets the data it receives via input modules, to produce commands that are output by output modules in the form of signals. These signals are either digital (on / off) or analog. The input modules are connected to sensors, such as a digital flow detector 231 that detects whether or not there is flow in the pipe, and to manually activated contactors 261, 262, such as buttons or switches.The output modules connect the microcontroller to output devices such as relays 254, 255, 256, which allow control of the first filtration pump 120, the second fire pump 220, a solenoid valve 226 and / or an audible and / or visual alarm 252.

[0050] Once the fire protection system 200 is installed on the swimming pool installation, a first step 301 (“INI”) of the control process for said system consists of supplying said fire protection system 200 with electrical power and thus initializing it. The fire protection system 200 is then in standby mode. In this standby mode, during a step 302 (“ARMT”) the system waits for an arming instruction.

[0051] The fire protection system 200 further includes a remote control unit 260 that can be activated by a user. This remote control unit 260 is located outside the building, not in the technical room housing the water treatment plant equipment, so that it remains accessible to any person authorized to fight fires, and in particular to firefighters, without requiring building keys. Preferably, the remote control unit 260 is fixed to the exterior wall of the building at a height of between 150 and 180 centimeters. The remote control unit 260 includes an activation means 261 and an actuation means 262. The activation means 261 may, for example, be in the form of a push button or a button. A subsequent step 303 (“ARMT OK?”) of the command process is to check if the system 200 is armed.As long as system 200 is not armed, i.e., as long as the engagement means 261 has not been activated by a person, the control module 250 remains in standby at step 302, awaiting an arming instruction. As soon as the engagement means 261 is activated, it sends an "armed" signal to the control module 250, which then detects that system 200 is armed.

[0052] Optionally, when the control module 250 receives the arming signal from the system 200 emitted by the interlocking means 261, said control module 250 commands, in a step 304 (“ALM”), the triggering of an audible and / or visual alarm 252. By way of illustrative and non-limiting example, the audible and / or visual alarm 252 may, for example, be in the form of a flashing light with an integrated siren. It serves to warn that the system 200 has been armed. This alarm may preferably be located outside the building. Once the interlocking means 261 has been activated and the system 200 is therefore armed (step 303), a subsequent step 305 (“VAL”) consists of placing the control module 250 in a state awaiting a validation instruction.

[0053] Optionally, the signal sent by the switching means 261 to the control module 250 also allows, during steps 306 to 308, the initialization and triggering of a first time delay ti during which the validation means 262 must be triggered. This first time delay ti can, for example, be configured during the installation and initialization of the system 200 and set to a maximum threshold value tsi, for example, sixty seconds, in order to give the user time to activate the validation means 262. If the validation means 262 is not activated during the maximum duration ts of this first time delay tb, this means that the switching means 261 was triggered in error and the system returns to standby mode at the end of the time delay. In this case, the control process returns to step 302 (“ARMT”) awaiting the next arming signal. The control means 250 also commands the silencing of alarm 252 if such an alarm was triggered in the optional step 304. This prevents accidental activation.

[0054] The validation means 262 can, for example, be in the form of a key switch. Thus, a key is required to activate this validation means 262 and trigger the operation of the fire protection system 200, thereby preventing misuse by malicious individuals or children, for example. The keys are preferably standardized for all systems and can be in the form of standardized keys, coded systems, or radio frequency identification (RFID) badges programmed with a specific identifier.

[0055] A subsequent step 309 (“VAL OK?”) of the control process consists of verifying whether the activation of system 200 is validated. When the validation means 262 has been activated, it sends a validation signal to the control module 250, which then detects that the activation of the fire protection system 200 is validated. In response to this validation signal, the control module 250 sends, in a step 310 (“AR-PF”), a first command Cl to a normally closed relay NC 254 to switch it to the open position, so that it no longer energizes a normally open relay NO 255 ​​controlling the first filtration pump 120 of the pool water treatment system. Thus, the switching of the NC relay 254 and the NO relay 255 makes it possible to stop the first filtration pump 120 and protect it during the operation of the fire protection system 200.

[0056] In a subsequent step 314 (“ACTLPI”), the control module 250 sends a second command C2 to a normally open NO relay 256 connected to the second fire pump 220, in order to switch it to the closed position, so as to power said second fire pump 220 and activate its operation.

[0057] Optionally, at the time of step 310, when the first filtration pump 120 is shut down, the control module 250 initializes and triggers, during steps 311 to 313, a second time delay t2 allowing the user who activated the validation means 262 sufficient time to take hold of the fire hose nozzle located at the end of the fire hose before the second fire pump 220 is activated. This second time delay t2 can, for example, be configured during the installation and initialization of the system 200 and set to a maximum threshold value ts2, for example, sixty seconds, to allow the user time to take hold of the fire hose nozzle. The control module 250 then commands the activation of the second fire pump 220 at the end of this second time delay.

[0058] The flow controller 231, located in the discharge pipe 230 of the second fire pump 220, continuously sends flow information to the control module 250.

[0059] When the flow controller 231 is in the form of a flow detector, it sends the control module a binary flow information of "1" or "0" depending on whether or not it detects flow in the pipe. In step 319 ("D-OK?"), the control module 250, upon receiving this flow information, detects whether or not there is flow in the discharge pipe 230. When the detected flow information is "0", for example, the control module then detects, in step 319, a zero flow and proceeds to step 328 ("AR-PI"), to cut off the power supply to the NO relay 256, so that it switches to the open position and the second fire pump 220, ceasing to be powered, stops. Thus, the second pump 220 is also protected. In this case, the installation needs to be checked to see where the problem is coming from.If no solution can be found quickly, the system 200 is disarmed at step 327 by reactivating the interlocking means 261. The control module 250 returns to standby mode, and the control process returns to step 302, awaiting an arming signal. If a solution is found, the system remains armed, and the control module 250, at step 325, waits for the second pump 220 to be reactivated. Conversely, as long as the flow information sent by the flow detector is equal to "1" in this example, the control module detects, at step 319, that there is flow and continues to energize the NO relay 256 to keep the second pump 220 running. In this case, the control process proceeds to a next step 324 (“AR-PI?”) to check if the fire pump has not been stopped by a new actuation of the validation means 262.

[0060] It is possible that, during the operation of the fire protection system 200, the user may need to deactivate the second fire pump 220 for a period of time. In this case, the user again activates the validation means 262 to send a deactivation signal to the control module 250, which then cuts off the power supply to the normally open relay N0 256, thus stopping the second pump 220. A subsequent step 325 (“ACTI”) then places the control module 250 in a state of readiness for a reactivation instruction for the second fire pump 220. In the following step 326 (“ACTLPI?”), the control module checks whether the second fire pump 220 has been reactivated. As soon as the user activates the validation means 262 again, the control module 250 receives the validation signal from the validation means 262 and detects the reactivation of the pump.The control module 250 switches the NO relay 256 again in order to reactivate the second fire pump 220. Prior to the reactivation of the second pump. 220, the control module 250 can initiate and trigger the second optional time delay, in steps 311 to 313, so as to allow the user sufficient time to take control of the fire hose. If the user does not reactivate the fire pump, the control module 250 checks, in step 327 ("ARMT OK?"), whether the system 200 is still armed, that is, whether or not it has received a disarming signal from the activation means 261. If the system 200 is no longer armed, the control module 250 returns to standby mode and the control process returns to step 302 awaiting an arming signal.

[0061] When the flow controller is in the form of a flow meter, it sends the real-time measured flow value to the control module 250. In step 319, the control module then compares the measured flow value D to a predetermined minimum threshold value. This step determines whether the second fire pump 220 is stopped or not, depending on whether the measured water flow D in the discharge pipe 230 is lower or higher than said predetermined minimum threshold value.Thus, when the measured water flow rate D, delivered by the second fire pump 220, drops and becomes less than or equal to the predetermined minimum threshold value, due to an obstruction in the pipe or pump, or a closed valve, for example, the control module 250 detects that there is insufficient flow in the discharge pipe 230 and proceeds to step 328 ("AR-PI"), which cuts off the power supply to the NO relay 256. This causes the relay to switch to the open position, and the second fire pump 220, no longer receiving power, stops. In this way, the second pump 220 is also protected. In this case, the system must be checked to determine the source of the problem. If no solution can be found quickly, the system 200 is disarmed during a step 327, by reactivating the interlocking means 261, the control module 250 returns to standby mode and the control process returns to step 302 awaiting an arming signal.If a solution is found, the system remains armed and the control module 250, at step 325, waits for the second pump 220 to be reactivated. Conversely, as long as the measured water flow rate D, discharged by the second pump 220 into the discharge pipe 230, is greater than the predetermined minimum threshold value, the control module 250 detects sufficient flow in the discharge pipe 230 and continues to energize the NO relay 256 to keep the second pump 220 running. In this case, the control process proceeds to a subsequent step 324 ("AR-PI?") to check whether the fire pump has been stopped by a new actuation of the validation means 262.

[0062] In the alternative embodiment, not shown in the figures, in which the flow controller 231 is in the form of a pressure sensor, it measures the water pressure in the discharge pipe 230 and sends the valueThe pressure measured at the control module 250 is compared to a predetermined minimum pressure threshold. If the measured pressure is below this threshold, for example, 0.1 bar, the water flow is insufficient, and the control module shuts off the fire pump. The control module 250 can also compare the measured pressure to a predetermined upper threshold that must not be exceeded to avoid damaging the system's hydraulic circuit and the secondary fire pump. This upper threshold can be set, for example, to 4.9 bar. If the measured pressure exceeds this value, the control module 250 automatically shuts down the system and can, for example, display a message to request maintenance.If the measured pressure value is above an intermediate high value, for example above 1.5 bar, this means that the fire hose valve is closed. In this case, the control module 250 can, for example, command the second fire pump 220 to stop and trigger a timer, for example of five minutes, for the fire hose valve to reopen. If the fire hose valve is open during the timer period, then the second fire pump 220 is reactivated; otherwise, the second pump remains off.

[0063] Optionally, simultaneously with the activation of the second fire pump 220, the control module 250 initializes and triggers, during steps 315 to 318, a third time delay t3, which can be configured during the installation of the fire protection system 200 according to the water treatment system to which it is connected. Depending on the system, the second pump 220 may take more or less time to prime and provide a stable water flow. The duration ts 3 of this third time delay t3 will generally be between one and five minutes. This time delay allows the flow information sent by the flow controller 231 to be disregarded as long as the second fire pump 220 is in priming mode and is not pumping water into the discharge pipe 230.Once the second pump is primed, the water flow it delivers is normally at its maximum and stable, and the flow information sent to the control module 250 by the flow controller 231 can then be taken into account. When the second pump 220 is primed before the end of the duration ts 3 of this third time interval, the control process goes directly to step 319 where the flow information sent by the flow controller 231 is taken into account by the control module 250.

[0064] Advantageously, a pressure switch, not shown in the figures, can be added to measure the pressure at the outlet of the second pump 220 and is electrically connected to the second fire pump 220. Such a pressure switch It includes a pressure relief valve that shuts off the pump's power supply when the pressure at the pump outlet exceeds a pre-calibrated maximum threshold pressure, for example, 4.9 bar. This pressure switch protects the system's hydraulic circuit and the second 220 fire pump from overpressure that can occur, for example, when the second 220 fire pump is running while the fire hose valve is closed.

[0065] In this case, the pressure switch detects, in step 320, the water pressure in the discharge pipe 230. If the pressure is too high, and exceeds the maximum threshold pressure, the pressure switch commands the shutdown, in step 321, of the second fire pump 220. As soon as the pressure switch detects, in the following step 322, a pressure lower than the overpressure threshold pressure, the pressure switch reactivates the second fire pump 220 in step 323.

[0066] To stop the fire protection system 200, simply reverse the procedure by activating the validation means 262 again. Activating this means 262 sends a signal to the control module 250, which detects it at a step 324 and cuts off the power supply to the normally open NO relay 256, thus stopping the second pump 220. At this stage, the first filtration pump 120 is not restarted because the installation and the water level in the pool must be checked to ensure that the filtration pump 120 will not be damaged when it is restarted. After checking the installation and topping up the water level if necessary, the first filtration pump 120 can be restarted by activating the activation means 261 again. Activating the activation means 261 again sends a disarming signal to the control module 250, which detects it at a step 327.With the situation having returned to normal, the audible and / or visual alarm 252 also ceases to function on command from the control module 250 after receiving the signal emitted by the interlocking means 261. The control module therefore returns to standby and the control process returns to step 302 awaiting an arming signal.

[0067] The control module 250 and the relays 254, 255, 256 can be assembled in a sealed box placed on the frame outside the technical room of the water treatment installation.

[0068] The water pressure at the outlet of the fire hose is preferably greater than one bar and less than five bars to avoid damaging the bonds of pipes conventionally made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or polypropylene (PP).

[0069] The 200 fire protection system according to the invention can be connected to both pool water treatment systems undergoing renovation and pool systems under construction. When the system is intended to be installed On a new construction, the section of the pool suction inlets and the section of the pipes can be substantially increased, in order to minimize pressure losses and so that the flow rate of water flowing from a suction inlet, for example the bottom drain, towards the 230 discharge pipe is greater than or equal to fifteen cubic meters per hour.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the control module 250 may further include a monitoring module for sending a message to one or more predetermined recipient(s), such as the nearest fire station, law enforcement, and / or the town hall, for example, in the event of a confirmed activation of system 200 (step 309). This message may include information on the date and time of the activation of system 200, the geolocation point of the system that issued this alert message, and the fastest route to reach it, for example.

[0071] According to yet another embodiment, the 200 fire protection system can be made energy self-sufficient and no longer be connected to the installation's electrical panel but powered by a solar panel to which it is electrically connected. Thus, the system being self-sufficient, it can be used even in the event of a power outage during a fire.

[0072] According to yet another variant, it is also possible to provide a retention tank, not shown in the figures, at the outlet of the wastewater discharge pipe 125, in order to pump the water stored in this retention tank as a priority. In this case, another solenoid valve is placed between the second fire pump 220, the pipe 121 coming from the pool suction inlet, and the pipe coming from the retention tank. A sensor detects the water level in the retention tank, and as soon as there is no more water in said tank, the sensor sends a signal to the control module 250, which controls said solenoid valve, in order to switch the solenoid valve so that the second fire pump 220 can draw water from the pool suction inlet, via the pipe 121.

[0073] The fire protection system just described has the advantage of being easy to use and allows anyone to protect their home and surroundings. It also allows a firefighter to intervene alone and begin protection work before the arrival of fire engines. Furthermore, this system allows firefighters to reduce handling and increase efficiency. The system is automatic and requires no intervention in the technical room of the water treatment plant; it is sufficient to connect the fire hose to the fire department connection 232 of the discharge pipe 230 and to activate the activation means 261 and the validation means 262 of the control assembly 260. Remotely controlled to trigger the operation of system 200. The second fire pump, 220, is sized to provide, at the nozzle outlet, a water jet with a pressure preferably between one and five bars, a flow rate greater than or equal to thirteen cubic meters per hour, and a length greater than ten meters, and preferably greater than fifteen meters. Finally, this system allows the fire hose to be connected directly to a pump truck to fill its tank.

Claims

Demands

1. Fire protection system (200) intended to draw water from a swimming pool, said swimming pool comprising at least one suction inlet connected, via a pipe (121), to a first filtration pump (120), said system (200) being characterized in that it comprises: - a second pump (220), connected on one side to said suction inlet and on the other side to a discharge pipe (230), intended to allow the connection of a fire hose, - and a control module (250) arranged to control the stopping of said first filtration pump (120) and the starting of said second pump (220), upon receipt of an activation signal emitted by a set (260) of remote controls.

2. Fire protection system (200) according to claim 1, characterized in that the remote control assembly (260) includes an engagement means (261) designed to arm the system (200) and a validation means (262) designed to validate the activation of the system (200).

3. Fire protection system (200) according to claim 2, characterized in that it further comprises an audible and / or visual alarm (252), the operation of which is controlled by order of the control module (250) upon receipt of an arming signal emitted by said interlocking means (261).

4. Fire protection system (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a water flow controller (231) disposed in the discharge pipe (230) and connected to the control module (250) to send it water flow information (D).

5. Fire protection system (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it further comprises a monitoring means designed to send a message to one or more predetermined recipient(s) in the event of activation of said system (200), said message comprising at least one geolocation information for said system.

6. Fire protection system (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that it is electrically powered by means of a photovoltaic panel.

7. Fire protection system (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it further comprises a pressure switch designed to stop said second pump (220) when the pressure is greater than a previously calibrated maximum threshold value.

8. A method for controlling a fire protection system (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that it comprises the following steps: - a step (303) of arming said system (200); - a step (309) of validating the activation of said system (200); - a step (310) of stopping said first filtration pump (120); - and a step (314) of activating said second pump (220).

9. Control method according to claim 8, characterized in that when the fire protection system (200) is armed, said control method further comprises a triggering step (304) of an audible and / or visual alarm (252).

10. A control method according to any one of claims 8 to 9, characterized in that when the fire protection system (200) is armed, said control method further comprises an initialization step (306) and triggering step (307) of a first time delay (tsi) during which the validation step (309) of the activation of the system (200) must be carried out.

11. Control method according to any one of claims 8 to 10, characterized in that when said first pump (120) is stopped (310), said control method further comprises an initialization step (311) and triggering step (312) of a second time delay (t 2), at the end of which the activation step (314) of said second pump (220) is carried out.

12. A control method according to any one of claims 8 to 11, provided that they depend on claim 4, characterized in that said control method further comprises a step (319) of detecting a flow information sent by the flow controller (231) and a step (328) of stopping said second pump (220) provided that said flow information corresponds to a zero water flow (D) or to a water flow measured in the discharge pipe (230) less than or equal to a predetermined minimum threshold value.

13. Control method according to claim 12, characterized in that said control method further comprises an initialization step (315) and triggering step (316) of a third predetermined time delay (t3), to allow said second pump (220) to prime.

14. Computer program comprising program code instructions for performing the steps of the control method according to any one of claims 8 to 13, of the fire protection system (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, when said program is executed by a processor.

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