Fire Monitoring System

Abstract

Reduces false detections caused by reflected sunlight. [Solution] The fire monitoring system comprises an infrared camera, a temperature identification means for identifying the temperature of the heat source for each of multiple thermal images captured by the infrared camera, and a processing execution means for executing fire response processing when the multiple temperatures identified by the temperature identification means do not satisfy a first condition, and not executing fire response processing when the multiple temperatures satisfy the first condition, wherein the first condition is that the multiple temperatures are monotonically increasing or monotonically decreasing.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a fire monitoring system. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a fire detection and extinguishing system that combines a scanning fire detection device and a water nozzle device to monitor and extinguish fires in large facilities such as arenas and halls. In this fire detection and extinguishing system, the scanning fire detection device is installed in a position that overlooks the restricted area. It performs two-dimensional scanning of the restricted area using optical horizontal and vertical scanning. When the received light signal from the infrared sensor exceeds a threshold level, it is determined to be a fire source. The control device determines the coordinate position of the fire source based on the horizontal and vertical scanning angles of the fire detection device when the fire source is detected, and controls the water discharge direction and water discharge distance of the water nozzle device. For example, the water discharge nozzle device is equipped with a water discharge nozzle with a fixed elevation and depression angle that can be rotated horizontally. The water discharge direction toward the fire source is determined by controlling the rotation of the water discharge nozzle, and the water discharge distance is determined by the water discharge pressure supplied to the water discharge nozzle. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 10-258136 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The fire detection device in such a system acquires temperature using an infrared camera, but when reflected sunlight enters the infrared camera, it may acquire a temperature higher than the fire detection level, resulting in a false detection. The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and has as its object to suppress erroneous detection caused by reflected light from the sun. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] In order to solve the above problems, the fire monitoring system of the present invention comprises an infrared camera, a temperature identification means for identifying the temperature of a heat source for each of a plurality of thermal images captured by the infrared camera, and a processing execution means for executing fire response processing when the plurality of temperatures identified by the temperature identification means do not satisfy a first condition, and not executing the fire response processing when the plurality of temperatures satisfy the first condition, wherein the first condition is that the plurality of temperatures are monotonically increasing or monotonically decreasing. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to the present invention, it is possible to suppress erroneous detection caused by reflected light from the sun. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows an example of the coverage area of ​​this water cannon system. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows an example of a water cannon system. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 shows an example of the arrangement of the water cannon 201 and the protection range. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows an example of the appearance of the fire detection device 203. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 shows an example of the arrangement and surveillance area of ​​the fire detection device 203. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 shows an example of the arrangement and surveillance area of ​​the fire detection device 203. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 shows an example of the functional configuration of the water cannon and fire detection control panel 205. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 shows an example of the functional configuration of the water cannon central operation panel 207. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 shows an example of an operation sequence 900 in automatic mode. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 shows an example of an operation sequence 1000 in manual mode. [Figure 11]FIG. 11 shows an example of an operational flow 1100 of normal exploration. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 shows an example of an operational flow 1200 for fixed point exploration. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 shows an example of an operational flow 1300 of the A exploration. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 shows an example of an operational flow 1400 of B exploration. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 shows an example of an operational flow 1500 for B exploration. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 shows an example of the change in temperature acquired by an infrared camera when the heat source is the reflected light of the sun or the flames of a fire. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] 1. Embodiment Overview An outline of this embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, in order to suppress erroneous detection caused by reflected light from the sun, attention is focused on changes in temperature acquired by an infrared camera.

[0009] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the change in temperature acquired by an infrared camera when the heat source is the reflected light of the sun or the flames of a fire. The vertical axis indicates the temperature (°C), and the horizontal axis indicates the number of times the temperature has been acquired. For example, the value "1" on the horizontal axis indicates the first acquisition. The temperature sampling period is 3 seconds.

[0010] As shown in Figure 16(a), when the heat source is reflected sunlight, the temperature tends to change in one direction (monotonically decreasing). In the figure, the temperature changes in a decreasing direction, but it can also change in an increasing direction (monotonically increasing). In that case, the temperature also changes in one direction. Furthermore, when the heat source is reflected sunlight, even if the temperature change is not unidirectional, the temperature change is small. In contrast, when the heat source is a fire flame, as shown in FIG. 16(b), the temperature change is not unidirectional and is large due to the fluctuation of the flame.

[0011] In this embodiment, attention is focused on such differences in temperature change, and if the temperature change is unidirectional or small, it is determined that the heat source is reflected sunlight, and if the temperature change is not unidirectional or large, it is determined that the heat source is not reflected sunlight.

[0012] 1-2.Configuration This embodiment is a sprinkler system (hereinafter referred to as a "water cannon system") that uses a water-discharge head, etc. This water cannon system is a sprinkler system that combines a fire monitoring system for effectively detecting a fire that breaks out in a fire-protected building with a large space or a high ceiling, and a fire extinguishing system for effectively extinguishing the fire.

[0013] This water cannon system consists of a water cannon, a remote control valve, a fire pump, a fire detection device, a fire detection control panel, a water cannon / fire detection control panel, a water cannon central control panel, a water cannon local control panel, and a water cannon information processing panel.

[0014] When the fire detection system detects a fire, it moves on to the task of identifying the precise location of the fire source, and once the location of the fire source is confirmed, it selects and aims the water cannon to spray water. In automatic mode, a timer runs, and when the countdown ends, the corresponding remote control valve is automatically opened and the fire pump is started, causing the water cannon to begin spraying water.

[0015] If fine adjustments to the water cannon's direction are necessary, the image captured by the fire detection device's visible camera can be viewed and operated from the central water cannon control panel, and the direction of the water cannon can be adjusted.It is also possible to directly check the fire source on site and adjust it by operating the water cannon's local control panel.

[0016] The target of this water cannon system is a structure with a retractable roof that, when closed, creates a large space. It is primarily used for baseball games and can accommodate a large number of people.

[0017] An example of the surveillance area of ​​the water cannon system is shown in Figure 1. The water cannon system monitors the field area 101 (area surrounded by a thick solid line) and the spectator seats 102 (area surrounded by a dashed line).

[0018] Next, Figure 2 shows an example of a water cannon system. In the protected area, a water cannon 201 and a remote control valve 202 for controlling the water discharge from the water cannon 201 are arranged. The remote control valve 202 is installed in a water supply pipe connecting the water cannon 201 and a fire pump 211.

[0019] Also arranged within the protected area are fire detection device 203, water cannon / fire detection control panel 205 and fire detection control panel 206 for controlling fire detection device 203. Fire detection device 203 is connected by a signal line to water cannon / fire detection control panel 205 or fire detection control panel 206 via fire detection device relay panel 204. Water cannon / fire detection control panel 205 is connected to remotely operated valve 202 by a signal line.

[0020] Also, within the protection range, a water cannon on-site operation panel 208 for operating the water cannon 201 is placed. This water cannon on-site operation panel 208 is connected to the water cannon 201 and the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205 via signal lines.

[0021] In the pump room, a fire pump 211 and a pump control panel 212 for controlling the fire pump 211 are arranged.

[0022] The disaster prevention center is equipped with a water cannon information processing panel 209, a water cannon central operation panel 207, and a receiver 210. The water cannon information processing panel 209 is connected by signal lines to the water cannon central operation panel 207 and the receiver 210. The water cannon information processing panel 209 is also connected by signal lines to the fire detection device relay panel 204, the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205, the fire detection control panel 206, and the pump control panel 212. The main components are explained below.

[0023] Water cannon 201 is a small, movable head for spraying water over a wide area. This water cannon 201 automatically turns toward the fire source based on information from fire detection device 203, etc., and changes the water discharge angle and water discharge shape to three levels (far, medium, near) depending on the distance to the fire source, thereby effectively spraying water against the fire.

[0024] FIG. 3 shows an example of the arrangement of the water cannon 201 and the protection range. Water cannons 201 are installed in three locations: in the first base seating area, the third base seating area, and near the center field back screen. Each water cannon has three water discharge patterns: far 301, middle 302, and near 303, depending on the distance to the fire source.

[0025] Next, the remote control valve 202 is a valve for controlling the start and stop of water discharge from the water cannon 201. When a fire breaks out and a water cannon 201 to discharge water is selected, the corresponding remote control valve 202 is opened by automatic control or manual operation, and the water cannon 201 starts discharging water.

[0026] The fire detection device 203 is a fire detection means for detecting a monitoring area set in a fire prevention object and acquiring images thereof. The acquired images are transmitted to the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205, the fire detection control panel 206, and the water cannon information processing panel 209 via the fire detection device relay panel 204.

[0027] Fig. 4 shows an example of the appearance of the fire detection device 203. Fig. 4(a) shows the left side, Fig. 4(b) shows the front, and Fig. 4(c) shows the right side. The fire detection device 203 consists of an electric pan head 401 for horizontal rotation, an electric pan head 402 for vertical rotation placed on the electric pan head 401, and an infrared camera 403 and a visible camera 404 attached to the rotation axis of the electric pan head 402.

[0028] The infrared camera 403 and visible light camera 404 can be rotated and tilted up and down by electric pan heads 401 and 402, and can stop sequentially at 12 different monitoring positions to acquire images.

[0029] 5 and 6 show an example of the arrangement and surveillance area of ​​the fire detection device 203. Fig. 5 particularly shows the surveillance area in the first detection mode, and Fig. 6 particularly shows the surveillance area in the second detection mode. Basically, one fire detection device 203 is installed for each water cannon 201, and specifically, they are placed in three locations: in the first base seating area, the third base seating area, and near the center back screen. However, because it is not possible to monitor the entire surveillance area with just these, an additional fire detection device 203 is installed near the ceiling roof above the center back screen (hereinafter referred to as the "large window").

[0030] At this time, the center field fire detection device 203 is normally in a dormant state, as its surveillance area is encompassed by the large window, third base side, and first base side fire detection devices 203. Also, since most of the surveillance area can be monitored by combining two fire detection devices, the large window fire detection device 203 and the first base side or third base side fire detection device 203, the remaining device monitors the remaining area by fixed-point surveillance. To perform this control, two types of surveillance modes (see Table 1) are defined, and they are operated by switching between them at regular intervals using a timer.

[0031] [Table 1]

[0032] Here, normal detection is a detection method in which the fire detection device 203 stops at regular intervals, captures thermal images, and detects the entire monitoring range. The fire detection device 203 notifies the approximate location of the fire source when it finds it, even if it has not completed its rounds. On the other hand, fixed point detection is a detection method in which the fire detection device 203 captures thermal images at a fixed angle and performs detection. The fire detection device 203 notifies the approximate location of the fire source when it finds the fire source.

[0033] 5 shows the monitoring range of the first detection mode. In the figure, solid line 501 indicates the surveillance range of fire detection device 203 on the first base side, dashed line 502 indicates the surveillance range of fire detection device 203 on the third base side, and dashed line 503 indicates the surveillance range of fire detection device 203 for the large window. 6 shows the monitoring range of the second detection mode. In the figure, solid line 601 indicates the surveillance range of fire detection device 203 on the first base side, dashed line 602 indicates the surveillance range of fire detection device 203 on the third base side, and dashed line 603 indicates the surveillance range of fire detection device 203 for the large window.

[0034] Next, the water cannon and fire detection control panel 205 will be described. The water cannon / fire detection control panel 205 controls the fire detection device 203, identifies the presence and location of a fire source from images received from the device, and sends the information to the water cannon information processing panel 209. In addition, the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205 receives control commands from the water cannon information processing panel 209 and controls the water discharge pattern and rotation of the water cannon 201, as well as the elevation and rotation of the visible camera 404 of the fire detection device 203.

[0035] FIG. 7 shows an example of the functional configuration of the water cannon and fire detection control panel 205. The water cannon / fire detection control panel 205 includes a normal detection unit 701, a fixed point detection unit 702, an A detection unit 703, a B detection unit 704, and a water cannon control unit 705. These functions are provided by the processor executing a control program stored in the memory.

[0036] First, the normal detection unit 701 performs a normal detection. Specifically, the normal detection unit 701 stops the infrared camera 403 at regular angle intervals, captures images, and detects the entire monitoring range. At this time, the normal detection unit 701 analyzes the images acquired by the infrared camera 403 at each monitoring position and compares the temperature at the highest temperature position with the fire detection temperature set value. The fire detection temperature set value referenced in this comparison process is a threshold value that is set in advance by the user.

[0037] The normal detection unit 701 also determines whether the maximum temperature location is included in a mask area. The mask area referenced in this determination is an area set in advance by the user to be excluded from the target of fire detection, and is set individually for each of the 12 monitoring locations. Therefore, the user can individually set the area to be excluded from the target of fire detection for each of the 12 monitoring locations.

[0038] The normal detection unit 701 determines that there is a fire if, as a result of the above comparison and judgment, the temperature at the highest temperature location exceeds the fire judgment temperature setting value and the highest temperature location is not included in the mask area corresponding to the monitoring location.

[0039] After determining that there is a fire, the normal detection unit 701 calculates the location of the fire source based on the installation position of the fire detection device 203, the rotation angle and elevation angle of the infrared camera 403 when capturing the fire source image, and the image captured by the infrared camera 403 (more specifically, the pixel position indicating the fire source).

[0040] Specifically, the normal inspection unit 701 first corrects the rotation angle and elevation angle based on the image captured by the infrared camera 403. At that time, the normal inspection unit 701 calculates, as the correction values ​​for the rotation angle and elevation angle, the rotation angle and elevation angle measured when the pixel indicating the fire source is positioned approximately at the center of the screen.

[0041] Next, the normal detection unit 701 calculates the distance from the fire detection device 203 to the fire source in a planar view using the following formula (1). D = H × tan(β) (1) In this formula (1), D represents the distance from the fire detection device 203 to the fire source in a plan view, H represents the installation height of the fire detection device 203, and β represents the elevation angle of the infrared camera 403 when photographing the fire source. The normal detection unit 701 substitutes the installation height (set value) of the fire detection device 203 and the correction value of the elevation angle into this formula (1) to calculate the distance from the fire detection device 203 to the fire source in a plan view.

[0042] After calculating the distance to the fire source, the normal detection unit 701 then calculates the coordinate values ​​of the fire source using the following equations (2) to (4). xi = x + D × cos(α) (2) yi=y+D×sin(α)···(3) zi=-z (4) In these equations (2) to (4), (x, y, z) are coordinate values ​​indicating the installation position of the fire detection device 203, α represents the rotation angle of the infrared camera 403 when capturing an image of the fire source, and (xi, yi, zi) are coordinate values ​​of the fire source. The detailed processing of the normal exploration will be described later.

[0043] Next, the fixed point inspection unit 702 will be described. The fixed-point detection unit 702 executes fixed-point detection. Specifically, the fixed-point detection unit 702 captures thermal images at a fixed angle using the infrared camera 403. At this time, the fixed-point detection unit 702 analyzes the images acquired by the infrared camera 403 at a pre-designated monitoring position and compares the temperature at the highest temperature position with the fire detection temperature set value. The fire detection temperature set value referenced in this comparison process is a threshold value that is set in advance by the user.

[0044] The fixed point detection unit 702 also determines whether the maximum temperature position is included in a mask area. The mask area referenced in this determination is an area set in advance by the user to be excluded from the target of fire detection, and is set individually for each of the 12 monitoring locations. Therefore, the user can individually set the area to be excluded from the target of fire detection for each of the 12 monitoring locations.

[0045] The fixed point detection unit 702 determines that there is a fire if, as a result of the above comparison and judgment, the temperature at the highest temperature location exceeds the fire judgment temperature set value and the highest temperature location is not included in the mask area corresponding to the monitoring location.

[0046] After determining that a fire has occurred, the fixed point detection unit 702 calculates the approximate location of the fire source. The method for calculating the approximate location of the fire source is the same as that used by the normal detection unit 701, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted. The fixed point exploration process will be described in detail later.

[0047] Next, the A search unit 703 will be described. The A exploration unit 703 executes the A exploration. The A exploration is an exploration that is executed simultaneously by the three fire exploration devices 203 excluding the fire exploration device 203 that detected the fire when a fire is detected during a normal exploration or fixed-point exploration. This A exploration differs from the normal exploration in that, whereas in the normal exploration, exploration is not performed beyond the monitoring position where the fire was detected, the A exploration executes exploration at least once at each of the monitoring positions regardless of fire detection.

[0048] Next, the B search unit 704 will be described. The B exploration unit 704 executes B exploration. This B exploration is an exploration in which the fire detection device 203 that issued the A alarm moves to locate the fire point at the center of the screen captured by the infrared camera 403, and obtains more detailed position information.

[0049] Specifically, when a fire is determined to exist by normal detection unit 701, fixed point detection unit 702, or A detection unit 703, B detection unit 704 controls motorized pan heads 401 and 402 so that the highest temperature position is approximately the center of the screen of infrared camera 403. At that time, B detection unit 704 determines whether the elevation / depression angle of motorized pan head 402 that it controls satisfies a predetermined condition. The predetermined condition taken into consideration in this determination is that the elevation / depression angle of motorized pan head 402 is 0° (horizontal) or less. If this condition is not satisfied, it is highly likely that the fire source is sunlight, and so B detection unit 704 cancels the fire determination made by normal detection unit 701, etc. This prevents erroneous detection of a fire.

[0050] After controlling the motorized camera heads 401 and 402, the B search unit 704 acquires multiple images, including the maximum temperature position, from the infrared camera 403. The B search unit 704 then analyzes the acquired images and identifies the maximum temperature in each image. After identifying the maximum temperature, if the identified maximum temperature is equal to or higher than the forced alarm determination temperature, the B search unit 704 corrects the maximum temperature to a forced alarm replacement temperature. The forced alarm determination temperature referenced in this correction process is a threshold value preset by the user, which is set to 400°C in this embodiment. On the other hand, the forced alarm replacement temperature is a correction value preset by the user, which is set to 1000°C in this embodiment. This forced alarm replacement temperature is set to a temperature higher than the forced alarm determination temperature.

[0051] If the forced alarm threshold temperature is set to 400°C, the flame temperature (measured by this system as approximately 300°C) is below 400°C and therefore is not corrected to the forced alarm replacement temperature. On the other hand, the temperature of sunlight (measured by this system as approximately 600°C) is above 400°C and therefore is corrected to a fixed value called the forced alarm replacement temperature (1000°C). As a result of this correction, false fire detection can be more reliably prevented in the process of comparing temperatures between images, which will be described later. Note that the temperature of sunlight, 600°C, is the temperature measured when direct light or specularly reflected light is incident on the infrared camera 403; when reflected light from a concrete floor or the like is incident, a different temperature is measured.

[0052] After the temperature correction, the B detection unit 704 compares the correction values ​​between the multiple images. If the result of this comparison shows that the temperature difference is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, the B detection unit 704 cancels the fire determination made by the normal detection unit 701, etc. This is because if there is no or little temperature difference between images, it is highly likely that the fire source represented by those images is sunlight or its metallic reflection, rather than a flame with fluctuating temperature. By canceling the fire determination when the temperature difference is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold in this way, false fire detection can be prevented.

[0053] On the other hand, if the temperature difference exceeds a predetermined threshold as a result of the comparison, the B search unit 704 identifies the temperature of the heat source for each of the multiple thermal images captured by the infrared camera 403. Specifically, the B search unit 704 identifies the highest temperature of the heat source for each of the 10 thermal images. If the multiple identified temperatures do not satisfy a predetermined condition, the B search unit 704 executes a fire response process, and if the multiple temperatures satisfy the predetermined condition, the B search unit 704 does not execute a fire response process.

[0054] The predetermined condition here is that the temperatures are monotonically increasing or decreasing. If this condition is met, it is assumed that the heat source is reflected sunlight. The fire response process referred to here means notifying the water cannon information processing panel 209 of the detection results. In notifying the detection results, the B detection unit 704 calculates the fire source position from an image including the maximum temperature position obtained from the infrared camera 403. This method of calculating the fire source position is the same as that of the normal detection unit 701, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0055] To summarize, when a fire is determined by the normal detection unit 701 or the like, the B detection unit 704 identifies the location of the fire source from an image including the above-mentioned highest temperature position obtained from the infrared camera 403 when the specified condition that the elevation angle of the electric pan head 402 is 0° (horizontal) or less is met, the temperature difference between multiple images exceeds a specified threshold, and the temperature change in the multiple thermal images is not a monotonically increasing or decreasing one. The B search process will be described in more detail later.

[0056] Next, the water cannon control unit 705 will be described. The water cannon control unit 705 receives a water cannon control command transmitted from the water cannon central operation panel 207 and controls the water cannon 201 to point toward the fire source.

[0057] Next, the fire detection control panel 206 will be described. The fire detection control panel 206 is the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205 without the water cannon control unit 705, and is installed for the fire detection device 203 in the large window described above.

[0058] The water cannon central operation panel 207 is used to manage the water cannon system. When a fire occurs, this water cannon central operation panel 207 displays images captured by the visible camera 404 of the fire detection device 203 on a TV monitor, and also displays various information and operating conditions sent from the water cannon information processing panel 209 on an LCD monitor and on the operation unit. The operation unit can be used to control and switch the visible camera 404 and water cannon 201, and to operate the water cannon.

[0059] FIG. 8 shows an example of the functional configuration of the water cannon central operation panel 207. The water cannon central operation panel 207 includes a water cannon control command unit 801, an automatic water discharge judgment unit 802, a water discharge control command unit 803, a notification unit 804, and a simulated fire test command unit 805. These functions are provided by the processor executing a control program stored in the memory.

[0060] First, when the water cannon central operation panel 207 receives Alarm B transmitted from the water cannon information processing panel 209, the water cannon control command unit 801 transmits a water cannon control command to the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205. The transmitted water cannon control command commands the water cannon 201 to be controlled so as to face the fire source.

[0061] The automatic water discharge determination unit 802 determines whether the fire source location identified by the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205 or the fire detection control panel 206 is included in the automatic water discharge target area. The automatic water discharge target area referred to in this determination process is an area set in advance by the user, and is an area that is the target of automatic water discharge. In this embodiment, the audience seating area is not included in this automatic water discharge target area.

[0062] If the fire source location identified by the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205 or the like is included in the automatic water discharge target area, the water discharge control command unit 803 automatically starts discharging water from the water cannon 201 toward the fire source location.

[0063] If the fire source location identified by the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205 or the like is not included in the automatic water discharge target area, the notification unit 804 prompts the user to manually discharge water instead of the above-mentioned automatic water discharge. As described above, in this embodiment, the area subject to automatic water spraying does not include the audience seats. Therefore, if the fire source is located in the audience seats, automatic water spraying is not performed, and instead manual water spraying is performed. If manual water spraying is performed, water spraying is started at a position some distance away from the audience seats, and after informing the audience that the water is being sprayed, the water is directed toward the fire source, thereby preventing the water from hitting the audience directly.

[0064] Next, the water cannon local operation panel 208 will be described. The water cannon local operation panel 208 is installed in close proximity to the water cannon 201 in order to directly operate the water cannon 201 while checking the fire situation on-site. Even in the unlikely event of a system failure occurring in the control system from the water cannon central operation panel 207 and the water cannon information processing panel 209, manual operation from the water cannon local operation panel 208 is possible.

[0065] The water cannon information processing panel 209 collects and determines the fire source location information from the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205 and the fire detection control panel 206, receives the video signal from the visible camera 404, and controls the camera. In addition, the water cannon information processing panel 209 cooperates with the water cannon central operation panel 207 and the water cannon local operation panel 208 to issue control commands, alarms, and displays to various devices.

[0066] The receiver 210 is a fire receiver installed as an automatic fire alarm system. The receiver 210 displays and issues warnings about water discharge, automatic / manual status, system abnormalities, etc.

[0067] 1-3.Operation The water cannon system is monitored and operated by a central water cannon control panel 207 installed in the disaster prevention center, and in the event of a fire, it performs prompt initial firefighting activities according to a predetermined operational flow. The predetermined operational flow includes fire detection by fire detection, which has an automatic mode and a manual mode. These automatic and manual modes are explained below.

[0068] 1-2-1.Automatic mode FIG. 9 shows an example of an operation sequence 900 in automatic mode. First, the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205A constantly performs normal detection or fixed-point detection (step 901). Then, if a fire is detected as a result of the normal detection or fixed-point detection, the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205A notifies the water cannon information processing panel 209 of the detection results indicating the occurrence of a fire and the approximate location of the fire source (step 902). When the water cannon information processing panel 209 receives the detection results, it notifies the water cannon central operation panel 207 of Alarm A (step 903). When the water cannon central operation panel 207 receives this Alarm A, it displays Alarm A on its LCD monitor.

[0069] After transmitting the above-mentioned detection results, the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205A performs detection B (step 904). If a fire is detected as a result of detection B, the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205A notifies the water cannon information processing panel 209 of the detection results indicating the occurrence of a fire and the detailed location of the fire source (step 905). Upon receiving this detection result, the water cannon information processing panel 209 notifies the water cannon central operation panel 207 of an alarm B (step 906). Upon receiving this alarm B, the water cannon central operation panel 207 displays a fire message on the LCD monitor and TV monitor. The water cannon central operation panel 207 also transfers the information to the receiver 210 via the water cannon information processing panel 209.

[0070] Additionally, water cannon central operation panel 207 selects water cannon 201 and a water discharge pattern (step 907). Then, water cannon central operation panel 207 transmits a water cannon control command to water cannon / fire detection control panel 205A via water cannon information processing panel 209 (step 908). Upon receiving this water cannon control command, water cannon / fire detection control panel 205A controls water cannon 201A based on this command (step 909). As a result of this control, water cannon 201A is directed toward the fire source.

[0071] After transmitting the water cannon control command, the water cannon central operation panel 207 determines whether the detailed location of the fire source is included in the automatic water discharge area (step 910). If the result of this determination is that the detailed location of the fire source is included in the automatic water discharge area, the water cannon central operation panel 207 waits until it receives Alarm B from the second water cannon / fire detection control panel 205. On the other hand, if the result of this determination is that the detailed location of the fire source is not included in the automatic water discharge area, the water cannon central operation panel 207 displays the fire compartment and a message on the LCD monitor saying, "This is not an automatic water discharge area. Check the site and perform appropriate initial fire extinguishing." Then, the water cannon central operation panel 207 does not execute step 918 and subsequent steps described below.

[0072] As described above, in this embodiment, the area subject to automatic water spraying does not include the audience seats. Therefore, if the fire source is located in the audience seats, automatic water spraying is not performed, and instead manual water spraying is performed. If manual water spraying is performed, water spraying is started at a position some distance away from the audience seats, and after informing the audience that the water is being sprayed, the water is directed toward the fire source, thereby preventing the water from hitting the audience directly. It should be noted that instead of manual water discharge, firefighting activities may be carried out using other fire extinguishing equipment (for example, an indoor fire hydrant).

[0073] The above-mentioned prompting for manual water discharge by the water cannon central operation panel 207 is not limited to displaying a message, but may be performed by audio output.

[0074] After notifying the above-mentioned B alarm, the water cannon information processing panel 209 transmits an A search start command to all other water cannon / fire detection control panels 205 and fire detection control panel 206 (step 911). The following explanation will be given for the case where the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205B receives this A search start command.

[0075] When the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205B receives the command to start the A-detection, it executes the A-detection (step 912). If the A-detection detects a fire, the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205B notifies the water cannon information processing panel 209 of the detection results indicating the occurrence of a fire and the approximate location of the fire source (step 913). When the water cannon information processing panel 209 receives the detection results, it notifies the water cannon central operation panel 207 of an A-detection alarm (step 914).

[0076] After transmitting the above-mentioned detection results, the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205B executes detection B (step 915). If the detection B results in the detection of a fire, the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205B notifies the water cannon information processing panel 209 of the detection results indicating the occurrence of a fire and the detailed location of the fire source (step 916). Upon receiving the detection results, the water cannon information processing panel 209 notifies the water cannon central operation panel 207 of an alarm B (step 917).

[0077] Upon receiving this Alarm B, the water cannon central operation panel 207 starts a countdown using a 15-second timer (step 918). Then, when the count value reaches zero, the water cannon central operation panel 207 sends a pump start command to the water cannon information processing panel 209 (step 919). Upon receiving this pump start command, the water cannon information processing panel 209 starts the fire pump 211 (step 920).

[0078] Furthermore, the water cannon central operation panel 207 transmits a remotely controlled valve open command to the water cannon information processing panel 209 (step 921). Upon receiving this remotely controlled valve open command, the water cannon information processing panel 209 opens the remotely controlled valve 202A for the water cannon 201A (step 922). As a result, water is sprayed from the water cannon 201A toward the fire source.

[0079] As a result of the water discharge, the fire is extinguished, and when a restoration operation is performed on the water cannon central operation panel 207, the fire pump 211 is stopped. This concludes the description of the automatic mode.

[0080] 1-2-2.Manual mode FIG. 10 shows an example of an operation sequence 1000 in manual mode. The operation sequence in the manual mode is the same as the operation sequence in the automatic mode from step 901 to step 917. A description of these steps will be omitted.

[0081] After receiving the second B alarm, the water cannon central operation panel 207 waits without starting the countdown. When a center staff member who has confirmed the fire operates the water discharge key on the water cannon central operation panel 207 in this state (step 1001), the water cannon central operation panel 207 sends a pump start command to the water cannon information processing panel 209 (step 1002). When the water cannon information processing panel 209 receives this pump start command, it starts the fire pump 211 (step 1003).

[0082] Furthermore, the water cannon central operation panel 207 transmits a remotely controlled valve open command to the water cannon information processing panel 209 (step 1004). Upon receiving this remotely controlled valve open command, the water cannon information processing panel 209 opens the remotely controlled valve 202A for the water cannon 201A (step 1005). As a result, water is sprayed from the water cannon 201A toward the fire source.

[0083] Another water discharge method is to use the local water cannon operation panel 208. In this case, the center personnel rush to the site and confirm the fire. Then, the center personnel operates the local water cannon operation panel 208A for operating the water cannon 201A to obtain operation authority. The center personnel then performs rotation operation of the water cannon 201A, selects a water discharge pattern, and operates the water discharge key (step 1006). In response to this operation, the local water cannon operation panel 208A transmits a pump start command to the water cannon information processing panel 209 (step 1007). When the water cannon information processing panel 209 receives this pump start command, it starts the fire pump 211 (step 1008).

[0084] Furthermore, the water cannon local operation panel 208A transmits a remotely controlled valve open command to the water cannon information processing panel 209 (step 1009). Upon receiving this remotely controlled valve open command, the water cannon information processing panel 209 opens the remotely controlled valve 202A for the water cannon 201A (step 1010). As a result, water is sprayed from the water cannon 201A toward the fire source.

[0085] As a result of the water discharge, the fire is extinguished, and when a restoration operation is performed on the water cannon central operation panel 207, the fire pump 211 is stopped. This concludes the description of the manual mode.

[0086] 1-2-3. Normal Exploration 11 shows an example of an operation flow 1100 for normal detection. The normal detection shown in the drawing is executed by the normal detection unit 701 of the water cannon and fire detection control panel 205 or the fire detection control panel 206.

[0087] The normal detection unit 701 moves the infrared camera 403 of the fire detection device 203 to one of 12 monitoring positions (step 1101). In addition, the normal detection unit 701 acquires mask data corresponding to the monitoring position to which the camera has been moved (step 1102). The normal detection unit 701 then acquires a thermal image captured by the infrared camera 403 that has been moved to the monitoring position (step 1103).

[0088] After acquiring the thermal image, the normal detection unit 701 analyzes the acquired thermal image and extracts the pixel with the highest temperature (step 1104). In doing so, the normal detection unit 701 extracts the pixel with the highest temperature for each of the four areas formed by dividing the thermal image into four areas in the vertical direction. However, the normal detection unit 701 does not extract pixels from the mask area indicated by the acquired mask data.

[0089] After extracting pixels from each area, the normal detection unit 701 converts the maximum temperature of each pixel into a distance (step 1105). Specifically, the normal detection unit 701 multiplies the maximum temperature of each pixel by a correction coefficient corresponding to the corresponding area. For example, the normal detection unit 701 multiplies the maximum temperature of pixels in a first area by the correction coefficient corresponding to the first area.

[0090] After converting the distance, the normal detection unit 701 compares the calculated converted value with the fire detection temperature set value (step 1106). If the result of this comparison shows that both converted values ​​are equal to or less than the fire detection temperature set value (NO in step 1106), the normal detection unit 701 returns to step 1101 and moves the infrared camera 403 to the next monitoring position. On the other hand, if the result of this comparison shows that either converted value exceeds the fire detection temperature set value (YES in step 1106), the normal detection unit 701 next compares the number of pixels having a converted value that exceeds the fire detection temperature set value with a set number (step 1107).

[0091] If the result of this comparison shows that the number of pixels is less than the set number (NO in step 1107), the normal detection unit 701 returns to step 1101 and moves the infrared camera 403 to the next monitoring position. On the other hand, if the result of this comparison shows that the number of pixels is equal to or greater than the set number (YES in step 1107), the normal detection unit 701 calculates the approximate position of the fire source (step 1108). At that time, the normal detection unit 701 calculates the approximate position of the fire source from the rotation angle and depression angle of the infrared camera 403 and the acquired image.

[0092] After calculating the approximate location of the fire source, the normal detection unit 701 notifies the water cannon information processing panel 209 of the detection results indicating the occurrence of a fire and the approximate location of the fire source (step 1109). This concludes the explanation of normal exploration.

[0093] 1-2-4. Fixed point survey 12 shows an example of an operation flow 1200 for fixed-point investigation. The fixed-point investigation shown in the drawing is executed by the fixed-point investigation unit 702 of the water cannon and fire investigation control panel 205 or the fire investigation control panel 206.

[0094] The fixed point inspection unit 702 moves the infrared camera 403 of the fire detection device 203 to a pre-specified monitoring position (step 1201). In addition, the fixed point inspection unit 702 acquires mask data corresponding to the monitoring position to which the infrared camera 403 has been moved (step 1202). The fixed point inspection unit 702 then acquires a thermal image captured by the infrared camera 403 that has been moved to the monitoring position (step 1203).

[0095] After acquiring the thermal image, the fixed point probing unit 702 analyzes the acquired thermal image and extracts the pixel with the highest temperature (step 1204). At this time, the fixed point probing unit 702 extracts the pixel with the highest temperature for each of the four areas formed by dividing the thermal image into four areas in the vertical direction. However, the fixed point probing unit 702 does not extract pixels from the mask area indicated by the acquired mask data.

[0096] After extracting pixels from each area, the fixed point inspection unit 702 converts the maximum temperature of each pixel into a distance value (step 1205). Specifically, the fixed point inspection unit 702 multiplies the maximum temperature of each pixel by a correction coefficient corresponding to the corresponding area.

[0097] After converting the distance, the fixed point detection unit 702 compares the calculated converted value with the fire detection temperature set value (step 1206). If the result of this comparison shows that both converted values ​​are the fire detection temperature set value (NO in step 1206), the fixed point detection unit 702 returns to step 1203 and acquires the next thermal image. On the other hand, if the result of this comparison shows that either converted value exceeds the fire detection temperature set value (YES in step 1206), the fixed point detection unit 702 next compares the number of pixels having a converted value that exceeds the fire detection temperature set value with a set number (step 1207).

[0098] If the result of this comparison shows that the number of pixels is less than the set number (NO in step 1207), the fixed point inspection unit 702 returns to step 1203 and acquires the next thermal image. On the other hand, if the result of this comparison shows that the number of pixels is equal to or greater than the set number (YES in step 1207), the fixed point inspection unit 702 calculates the approximate position of the fire source (step 1208). At this time, the fixed point inspection unit 702 calculates the approximate position of the fire source from the rotation angle and depression angle of the infrared camera 403 and the acquired image.

[0099] After calculating the approximate location of the fire source, the fixed point detection unit 702 notifies the water cannon information processing panel 209 of the detection results indicating the occurrence of the fire and the approximate location of the fire source (step 1209). This concludes the explanation of fixed point exploration.

[0100] 1-2-5.A Exploration 13 shows an example of an operation flow 1300 of the A-search. The A-search shown in the drawing is executed by the A-search unit 703 of the water cannon and fire search control panel 205 or the fire search control panel 206.

[0101] Although the entity that executes the process is different, the process itself of the A exploration is the same as that of the normal exploration, in steps 1101 to 1109. These steps have already been explained, so the explanation will be omitted here.

[0102] Unlike normal exploration, A exploration performs exploration at least once at all monitoring positions regardless of fire detection. Therefore, A exploration includes steps 1301 and 1302.

[0103] In step 1301, the A-search unit 703 determines whether or not the infrared camera 403 has completed a round of the monitoring positions. If the result of this determination is that the infrared camera 403 has not completed a round of the monitoring positions (NO in step 1301), the A-search unit 703 returns to step 1101 and moves the infrared camera 403 to the next monitoring position. On the other hand, if the result of this determination is that the infrared camera 403 has completed a round of the monitoring positions (YES in step 1301), the A-search unit 703 next determines whether or not a fire source candidate exists (step 1302).

[0104] Specifically, the A-search unit 703 determines whether or not a "YES" determination is made in the determination of step 1107 while the infrared camera 403 is traveling around the monitoring positions. If the result of this determination is not a "YES" determination (NO in step 1302), the A-search unit 703 returns to step 1101 and moves the infrared camera 403 to the next monitoring position. On the other hand, if the result of this determination is a "YES" determination (YES in step 1302), the A-search unit 703 calculates the approximate position of the fire source (step 1108). At this time, the A-search unit 703 calculates the approximate position of the fire source from the rotation angle and depression angle of the infrared camera 403 and the acquired image.

[0105] After calculating the approximate location of the fire source, the A exploration unit 703 notifies the water cannon information processing panel 209 of the exploration results indicating the occurrence of the fire and the approximate location of the fire source (step 1109). This concludes the explanation of Exploration A.

[0106] 1-2-6.B Exploration 14 shows an example of an operation flow 1400 of the B exploration. The B exploration shown in the drawing is executed by the B exploration unit 704 of the water cannon and fire exploration control panel 205 or the fire exploration control panel 206.

[0107] Based on the approximate location of the fire source acquired by the normal search, fixed-point search, or search A, the search B unit 704 calculates the movement angle (swivel angle and depression angle) of the infrared camera 403 so that the fire source will be approximately at the center of the screen (step 1401). After calculating the movement angle, the search B unit 704 determines whether the calculated depression angle is 0 degrees or less (step 1402). If the result of this determination is that the calculated depression angle is greater than 0 degrees (NO in step 1402), the fire source is likely to be sunlight, and the search B unit 704 terminates the search B. This prevents erroneous detection of a fire. On the other hand, if the calculated depression angle is 0 degrees (horizontal) or less (YES in step 1402), the search B unit 704 moves the infrared camera 403 so that the fire source will be approximately at the center of the screen (step 1403).

[0108] After moving the infrared camera 403, the B search unit 704 acquires multiple thermal images captured by the infrared camera 403 (step 1404). After acquiring the thermal images, the B search unit 704 analyzes the acquired thermal images and extracts the pixel with the highest temperature in each thermal image (step 1405). The B search unit 704 then performs distance conversion on the maximum temperature of each extracted pixel (step 1406). Specifically, the B search unit 704 applies the maximum temperature of each pixel to a predetermined correction formula to calculate a correction value. However, at this time, if the maximum temperature is equal to or higher than the forced alarm determination temperature (400°C), the B search unit 704 substitutes it with the forced alarm substitution temperature (1000°C) instead of applying the correction formula. As a result of this correction, false fire detection can be more reliably prevented in step 1408, which will be described later.

[0109] After distance conversion, the B search unit 704 counts the number of pixels in each thermal image whose correction value exceeds the fire detection temperature setting value (step 1407). If the counted number of pixels in all thermal images is less than the setting number (NO in step 1407), the B search unit 704 ends the B search. On the other hand, if the counted number of pixels in any thermal image is equal to or greater than the setting number (YES in step 1407), the B search unit 704 next compares the correction values ​​of the maximum temperatures among the multiple thermal images (step 1408).

[0110] If the result of this comparison shows that the difference between the maximum and minimum correction values ​​is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold (NO in step 1408), the B exploration unit 704 ends B exploration. This is because if there is no or little temperature difference between the images, it is highly likely that the fire source represented by those images is sunlight or its metallic reflection, rather than a flame with fluctuating temperature. By canceling the fire judgment when the temperature difference is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, false fire detection can be prevented. After B exploration is completed, A exploration is performed again.

[0111] On the other hand, if the result of this comparison shows that the difference between the maximum and minimum correction values ​​exceeds a predetermined threshold (YES in step 1408), the B search unit 704 acquires 10 thermal images captured by the infrared camera 403 (step 1409). The B search unit 704 then analyzes the acquired 10 thermal images and extracts the pixel with the highest temperature in each thermal image (step 1410). The B search unit 704 then calculates the difference between the two temperatures before and after the highest temperature of each extracted pixel (step 1411). Specifically, for each pair of images (1st and 2nd, 3rd and 4th, 5th and 6th, 7th and 8th, 9th and 10th), the B search unit 704 subtracts the former highest temperature from the latter highest temperature to calculate the difference.

[0112] The B exploration unit 704 then determines whether the signs (positive or negative) of all the calculated differences are the same (step 1412). If the result of this determination is that all the differences have the same sign (YES in step 1412), this means that the temperature change is unidirectional. In particular, if the signs of all the differences are positive, this means that the temperature change is monotonically increasing, and if the signs of all the differences are negative, this means that the temperature change is monotonically decreasing. If the temperature change is unidirectional, it is estimated that the heat source is reflected sunlight, and the B exploration unit 704 ends the B exploration.

[0113] On the other hand, if the signs of all the differences are not the same (NO in step 1412), it means that the temperature change is not unidirectional. In this case, it is estimated that the heat source is not reflected sunlight, so the B detection unit 704 calculates the detailed position of the fire source (step 1413). In this case, the B detection unit 704 calculates the detailed position of the fire source from the rotation angle and depression angle of the infrared camera 403 and the above-mentioned acquired image.

[0114] After calculating the detailed location of the fire source, the B exploration unit 704 notifies the water cannon information processing panel 209 of the exploration results indicating the occurrence of the fire and the detailed location of the fire source (step 1414). This concludes the explanation of Exploration B.

[0115] The above-described B exploration focuses on the temperature change acquired by the infrared camera 403, and if the temperature change is unidirectional, it is determined that the heat source is reflected sunlight, and the B exploration is terminated. Therefore, this B exploration can suppress erroneous detections caused by reflected sunlight.

[0116] 2. Variations The above embodiment may be modified as follows: The following modifications may be combined with each other. (1) In the above embodiment, a baseball stadium is assumed to be a fire prevention object. However, the fire prevention object is not limited to a baseball stadium, and may be any other facility that can accommodate spectators.

[0117] (2) In the above normal inspection and A inspection, 12 monitoring locations are assumed, but the number of monitoring locations may be changed as appropriate depending on the fire prevention object and the number of fire detection devices 203 to be installed.

[0118] (3) In the above-mentioned B detection, if the condition that the elevation angle of the electric pan head 402 is 0° (horizontal) or less is not met, the fire determination by the normal detection unit 701 etc. is canceled. However, this condition is merely an example, and the threshold value of the elevation angle may be changed as appropriate depending on the fire prevention object.

[0119] (4) In the above-mentioned B-detection, the forced alarm judgment temperature is assumed to be 400°C, and the forced alarm replacement temperature is assumed to be 1000°C. However, these values ​​are merely examples, and may be changed as appropriate depending on the expected false detection targets and the specifications of the device.

[0120] (5) In the above-described B detection, the corrected values ​​of the maximum temperatures are compared between multiple thermal images, and if the difference between the maximum and minimum corrected values ​​is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, the fire determination by the normal detection unit 701, etc. is canceled. Instead of this determination method, if the corrected values ​​of the maximum temperatures match between multiple thermal images, the fire determination by the normal detection unit 701, etc. may be canceled. In other words, if the difference between the corrected values ​​between multiple thermal images is equal to or less than zero, the fire determination by the normal detection unit 701, etc. may be canceled.

[0121] (6) In the above embodiment, the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205 has the functions shown in Fig. 7, and the water cannon central operation panel 207 has the functions shown in Fig. 8. However, this functional arrangement is merely an example, and some or all of the functions provided in the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205 and the water cannon central operation panel 207 may be distributed to other devices.

[0122] (7) In the above-mentioned B search, attention is paid to whether the temperature change is unidirectional, thereby preventing erroneous detection due to the reflected light of the sun. Instead of this method, attention may be paid to the magnitude of the temperature change, thereby preventing erroneous detection due to the reflected light of the sun. Such a method will be described below.

[0123] When this method is adopted, the B search unit 704 identifies the temperature of the heat source for each of the multiple thermal images captured by the infrared camera 403. Specifically, the B search unit 704 identifies the highest temperature of the heat source for each of the 12 thermal images. Then, if the multiple identified temperatures do not satisfy a predetermined condition, the B search unit 704 executes a fire response process, and if the multiple temperatures satisfy the predetermined condition, the B search unit 704 does not execute a fire response process.

[0124] The predetermined condition here means that, for example, for consecutive first to third temperatures among the plurality of temperatures, the difference between the first and second temperatures and the difference between the second and third temperatures fall within a predetermined range. When this condition is met, it is estimated that the heat source is reflected sunlight. The above-mentioned predetermined range is set so as to be able to distinguish from the case where the heat source is a fire flame.

[0125] The fire response process referred to here means notifying the water cannon information processing panel 209 of the detection results. In notifying the detection results, the B detection unit 704 calculates the fire source position from an image including the maximum temperature position obtained from the infrared camera 403. This method of calculating the fire source position is the same as that of the normal detection unit 701, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0126] FIG. 15 shows an example of an operation flow 1500 of the B search according to this modification. The operational flow 1500 shown in the figure differs from the operational flow 1400 shown in FIG. 14 in that it has steps 1501 to 1505 instead of steps 1409 to 1412.

[0127] First, in step 1501, the B search unit 704 acquires 12 thermal images captured by the infrared camera 403. The B search unit 704 then analyzes the acquired 12 thermal images and extracts the pixel with the highest temperature in each thermal image (step 1502). The B search unit 704 then calculates the difference between the two temperatures before and after the highest temperature of each extracted pixel (step 1503). Specifically, for each pair of images (1st and 2nd, 3rd and 4th, 5th and 6th, 7th and 8th, 9th and 10th, and 11th and 12th), the B search unit 704 subtracts the former highest temperature from the latter highest temperature to calculate the difference.

[0128] The B search unit 704 then calculates the difference between the two preceding and following differences (step 1504). Specifically, for each pair of differences, such as the difference between the first and second images and the difference between the third and fourth images, the difference between the fifth and sixth images and the difference between the seventh and eighth images, and the difference between the ninth and tenth images and the difference between the eleventh and twelfth images, the B search unit 704 subtracts the former from the latter to calculate the difference. The B search unit 704 then determines whether all of the calculated differences are within a predetermined range (step 1505). If the result of this determination is that all of the differences are within the predetermined range (YES in step 1505), this means that the temperature change is small. In this case, the heat source is estimated to be reflected sunlight, and the B search unit 704 ends the B search.

[0129] On the other hand, if all the differences are not within the predetermined range (NO in step 1505), it means that the temperature change is large. In this case, it is estimated that the heat source is not reflected sunlight, and the B exploration unit 704 calculates the detailed location of the fire source (step 1413). According to the present modified example described above, it is also possible to suppress erroneous detection caused by reflected light from the sun.

[0130] (8) In the above embodiment or variation (7) of the B survey, the reflected light of the sun is determined based on 10 or 12 thermal images. However, this number of 10 or 12 is merely an example. The reflected light of the sun may be determined based on a number of images other than 10 or 12.

[0131] (9) In the above embodiment or variation (7) of the B search, the highest temperature pixel is extracted from each of the 10 or 12 thermal images. However, the extracted pixel is not limited to the highest temperature pixel. If the same criteria are applied to all thermal images, a pixel other than the highest temperature (for example, the pixel with the second highest temperature) may be extracted.

[0132] (10) In the above embodiment or variation (7) of the B exploration, if it is determined that the heat source is not reflected sunlight, the exploration result is notified to the water cannon information processing panel 209. However, this process is merely an example of a fire response process. If it is a process for responding to a fire, for example, a fire determination may be performed as a separate fire response process.

[0133] (11) When the heat source is reflected sunlight, as described above, the temperature tends to change in one direction (see Figure 16(a)). In addition, when the heat source is reflected sunlight, it is known that the slope of the approximation line showing the temperature change falls within a certain range. Therefore, when determining whether the heat source is reflected sunlight, in addition to determining whether the temperature changes in one direction, it is also possible to determine whether the slope of the approximation line showing the temperature change falls within a certain range. By performing this two-stage determination, the accuracy of the determination is improved.

[0134] In this case, the B search unit 704 identifies the temperature of the heat source for each of the multiple thermal images captured by the infrared camera 403. Specifically, the B search unit 704 identifies the highest temperature of the heat source for each of the 10 thermal images. The B search unit 704 then determines whether the identified multiple temperatures satisfy a first condition. The first condition here refers to the multiple temperatures monotonically increasing or monotonically decreasing. In addition, the B search unit 704 determines whether the identified multiple temperatures satisfy a second condition. The second condition here refers to the slope of the approximation line of the multiple temperatures falling within a predetermined range. The B search unit 704 then executes the above-described fire response process when the multiple temperatures do not satisfy the first condition or the second condition (i.e., when the heat source is not reflected sunlight), and does not execute the above-described fire response process when the multiple temperatures satisfy the first condition and the second condition (i.e., when the heat source is reflected sunlight).

[0135] Note that B search unit 704 uses, for example, the least squares method to find the above-mentioned approximate straight line. The upper limit of the above-mentioned predetermined range is set to, for example, a value 1.2 times the slope with the largest absolute value obtained by collecting data on temperature changes in reflected light from the sun for a certain period of time using infrared camera 403. On the other hand, the lower limit of the above-mentioned predetermined range is set to, for example, a value 1 / 2 times the slope with the smallest absolute value obtained by collecting data on temperature changes in reflected light from the sun for a certain period of time using infrared camera 403.

[0136] Next, the processing of the B search unit 704 will be described with reference to an operation flow 1400 of the B search shown in FIG.

[0137] If the result of the determination in step 1412 shows that all differences have the same sign (YES in step 1412), the B exploration unit 704 determines whether or not the slope of the approximation line for the multiple temperatures extracted in step 1410 is within a predetermined range (not shown). If the result of this determination shows that the slope of the approximation line is within the predetermined range, it is assumed that the heat source is reflected sunlight, and so the B exploration unit 704 ends the B exploration. On the other hand, if the result of this determination shows that the slope of the approximation line is not within the predetermined range, it is assumed that the heat source is not reflected sunlight, and so the B exploration unit 704 calculates the detailed fire source position (step 1413).

[0138] The determination of the gradient of the approximate line described above may be performed in the seventh modification example described above. In this case, the B search unit 704 identifies the temperature of the heat source for each of the multiple thermal images captured by the infrared camera 403. Specifically, the B search unit 704 identifies the highest temperature of the heat source for each of the 10 thermal images. The B search unit 704 then determines whether the identified multiple temperatures satisfy a first condition. The first condition here refers to, for example, a condition where, for consecutive first to third temperatures among the multiple temperatures, the difference between the first temperature and the second temperature and the difference between the second temperature and the third temperature are within a predetermined range. If this condition is satisfied, it is estimated that the heat source is reflected sunlight. The above-mentioned predetermined range is set so as to be able to distinguish from the case where the heat source is a fire flame.

[0139] In addition, B search unit 704 determines whether the identified temperatures satisfy a second condition. The second condition here refers to the slope of the approximation line of the temperatures falling within a predetermined range. When the temperatures do not satisfy the first condition or the second condition (i.e., when the heat source is not reflected sunlight), B search unit 704 executes the above-described fire response process, and when the temperatures satisfy the first condition and the second condition (i.e., when the heat source is reflected sunlight), B search unit 704 does not execute the above-described fire response process.

[0140] Next, the processing of the B search unit 704 will be described with reference to an operation flow 1500 of the B search shown in FIG.

[0141] If the result of the determination in step 1505 shows that all differences are within a predetermined range (YES in step 1505), the B exploration unit 704 determines whether the slope of the approximate line for the multiple temperatures extracted in step 1502 is within a predetermined range (not shown). If the result of this determination shows that the slope of the approximate line is within the predetermined range, it is assumed that the heat source is reflected sunlight, and so the B exploration unit 704 ends the B exploration. On the other hand, if the result of this determination shows that the slope of the approximate line is not within the predetermined range, it is assumed that the heat source is not reflected sunlight, and so the B exploration unit 704 calculates the detailed fire source position (step 1413).

[0142] (12) In the above-mentioned B exploration, if the heat source is reflected sunlight, the heat source heated by sunlight may be cooled. In this case, the B search unit 704 identifies the temperature of the heat source for each of the multiple thermal images captured by the infrared camera 403. Specifically, the B search unit 704 identifies the highest temperature of the heat source for each of the 10 thermal images. The B search unit 704 then determines whether the identified multiple temperatures satisfy a first condition. The first condition here refers to the multiple temperatures monotonically increasing or monotonically decreasing. If the multiple temperatures do not satisfy the first condition (i.e., if the heat source is not reflected sunlight), the B search unit 704 executes the fire response process described above. If the multiple temperatures satisfy the first condition (i.e., if the heat source is reflected sunlight), the B search unit 704 executes a process to cool the heat source.

[0143] The process for cooling the heat source referred to here is, for example, a process of notifying the water cannon information processing panel 209 of a cooling request. When notifying the cooling request, the B detection unit 704 calculates the heat source position from an image including the above-mentioned maximum temperature position acquired from the infrared camera 403. Then, the B detection unit 704 notifies the water cannon information processing panel 209 of a cooling request including the calculated heat source position. The method for calculating the heat source position is the same as that of the normal detection unit 701, and therefore the explanation will be omitted.

[0144] When the water cannon information processing panel 209 receives a cooling request from the B detection unit 704, it transfers it to the water cannon central operation panel 207. When the water cannon central operation panel 207 receives this cooling request, it selects the water cannon 201 and a water discharge pattern. The water discharge pattern selected here is a water discharge pattern in which water is sprayed over a wide area for a short period of time. The water cannon central operation panel 207 then transmits a water cannon control command to the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205 via the water cannon information processing panel 209. When the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205 receives this water cannon control command, it controls the water cannon 201 based on this command. As a result of this control, the water cannon 201 is directed toward the heat source.

[0145] Furthermore, water cannon central operation panel 207 transmits a pump start command to water cannon information processing panel 209. Upon receiving this pump start command, water cannon information processing panel 209 starts fire pump 211. In addition, water cannon central operation panel 207 transmits a remote control valve open command to water cannon information processing panel 209. Upon receiving this remote control valve open command, water cannon information processing panel 209 opens remote control valve 202 for water cannon 201. As a result, water is sprayed from water cannon 201 onto the heat source.

[0146] The cooling process described above may be performed in the seventh modification. In this case, the B search unit 704 identifies the temperature of the heat source for each of the multiple thermal images captured by the infrared camera 403. Specifically, the B search unit 704 identifies the highest temperature of the heat source for each of the 10 thermal images. The B search unit 704 then determines whether the multiple identified temperatures satisfy a first condition. The first condition here refers to, for example, a condition that, for consecutive first to third temperatures among the multiple temperatures, the difference between the first temperature and the second temperature and the difference between the second temperature and the third temperature fall within a predetermined range.

[0147] When the plurality of temperatures do not satisfy the first condition (i.e., when the heat source is not reflected sunlight), the B search unit 704 executes the above-mentioned fire response process, and when the plurality of temperatures satisfy the first condition (i.e., when the heat source is reflected sunlight), the B search unit 704 executes the above-mentioned process for cooling the heat source. The subsequent process is as described above.

[0148] (13) The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and includes various modifications. For example, the above-described embodiments have been described in detail to clearly explain the present invention, and the present invention is not necessarily limited to those including all of the described configurations. Furthermore, it is possible to replace part of the configuration of one embodiment with the configuration of another embodiment, or to add the configuration of another embodiment to the configuration of one embodiment. Furthermore, it is possible to add, delete, or replace part of the configuration of each embodiment with other configurations.

[0149] Furthermore, the above-described configurations, functions, processing units, processing means, etc. may be partially or entirely implemented in hardware, for example, by designing them as integrated circuits. The above-described configurations, functions, etc. may also be implemented in software, with a processor interpreting and executing a program that implements each function. Information such as the programs, tables, and files that implement each function can be stored in a memory, a recording device such as a hard disk or SSD (Solid State Drive), or a recording medium such as an IC card, SD card, or DVD.

[0150] In addition, the control lines and information lines shown are those that are considered necessary for the explanation, and do not necessarily show all the control lines and information lines in the product. In reality, it can be assumed that almost all components are interconnected. The above-described embodiments disclose at least the configurations described in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0151] 101...field area, 102...spectator seats, 201...water cannon, 202...remote control valve, 203...fire detection device, 204...fire detection device relay panel, 205...water cannon / fire detection control panel, 206...fire detection control panel, 207...water cannon central operation panel, 208...water cannon local operation panel, 209...water cannon information processing panel, 210...receiver, 211...fire pump, 212...pump control panel, 401, 402... Electric pan head, 403... Infrared camera, 404... Visible camera, 701... Normal detection unit, 702... Fixed point detection unit, 703... A detection unit, 704... B detection unit, 705... Water cannon control unit, 801... Water cannon control command unit, 802... Automatic water discharge judgment unit, 803... Water discharge control command unit, 804... Notification unit

Claims

1. Infrared camera and a temperature specifying means for specifying the temperature of a heat source for each of the plurality of thermal images captured by the infrared camera; a processing execution means for executing a fire response processing when the plurality of temperatures specified by the temperature specifying means do not satisfy a first condition, and for not executing the fire response processing when the plurality of temperatures satisfy the first condition; Equipped with the first condition is that the plurality of temperatures monotonically increase or decrease; A fire monitoring system characterized by:

2. Infrared camera and a temperature specifying means for specifying the temperature of a heat source for each of the plurality of thermal images captured by the infrared camera; a processing execution means for executing a fire response processing when the plurality of temperatures specified by the temperature specifying means do not satisfy a first condition, and for not executing the fire response processing when the plurality of temperatures satisfy the first condition; Equipped with the first condition is that, for consecutive first to third temperatures among the plurality of temperatures, a difference between the first temperature and the second temperature and a difference between the second temperature and the third temperature are included within a first range; A fire monitoring system characterized by:

3. the process execution means executes the fire response process when the plurality of temperatures do not satisfy the first condition or the second condition, and does not execute the fire response process when the plurality of temperatures satisfy the first condition and the second condition; the second condition is that the gradient of the approximation line of the plurality of temperatures is included in a second range; 3. A fire monitoring system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. 3. The fire monitoring system according to claim 1, wherein the processing execution means executes processing for cooling the heat source when the plurality of temperatures satisfy the first condition.

Images