control system

Abstract

This system provides a control system that can reduce the risk of fire outbreaks using existing automatic fire alarm systems. [Solution] The control system 101 includes a sensor 10 positioned separately from the detector 301 in the space 902 where the detector 301 of the automatic fire alarm system is installed, and an actuator 20 that performs processing to activate the detector 301. The sensor 10 detects gases indicating signs of ignition emitted by items that may ignite located in the space 902, before the items ignite. The control system 101 further includes a control device 30 that causes the actuator 20 to perform processing on the condition that the concentration of the gas detected by the sensor 10 exceeds a predetermined concentration.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a control system for preventing the occurrence of fires.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, various devices equipped with batteries, such as smartphones, notebook PCs (Personal Computers), drones, motorcycles, household storage batteries, and vehicles, have become widespread. Along with the spread of these devices, the risk of fires caused by battery ignition and the like has been recognized. In the case of a battery fire, first, the battery continues to generate heat for a long time. When the temperature of the battery reaches a predetermined temperature, the battery undergoes thermal runaway, leaking electrolyte and gases, which are thermal decomposition products thereof, outside the battery. After that, the battery ignites by a thermite reaction. The ignited battery falls into a state where it cannot be easily extinguished.

[0003] In the cargo hold of a vehicle carrier that transports vehicles, thousands of vehicles equipped with large-capacity batteries that may ignite as described above are arranged such that they are positioned relative to each other at intervals of several tens of centimeters in all directions. Therefore, if a fire breaks out due to a battery fire in any one vehicle, it is not easy to extinguish the fire in this vehicle. Furthermore, when a fire breaks out in one vehicle in this way, it quickly spreads to the surrounding vehicles. Therefore, when a fire breaks out from a vehicle in the cargo hold, extinguishing the fire becomes extremely difficult.

[0004] Therefore, in vehicle carriers, automatic fire alarm equipment for detecting fires has conventionally been installed. This automatic fire alarm equipment mainly consists of a sensor that operates by detecting smoke, flames, heat, etc. generated by a fire, and a receiver that notifies the crew of the fire triggered by the operation of the sensor.

[0005] However, automatic fire alarm systems configured in this way only alert to fires after they have occurred. Therefore, even if they detect the fire after it has manifested as smoke, flames, or heat, they may not be able to respond to fires that spread rapidly as described above.

[0006] To solve this problem, for example, Japanese Patent Publication No. 2005-312642 (Patent Document 1) discloses a fire detection and notification system for a vehicle carrier, which mainly has a fire detection temperature sensor that detects whether or not a fire has occurred from information such as the surface temperature of the vehicle, and comprises a plurality of sensor units distributed on the ceiling of the cargo compartment, a plurality of control units that receive detection signals from the fire detection temperature sensor and position information of the sensor units, and a central monitoring device connected to these control units via a communication bus.

[0007] According to such a fire detection and notification system for vehicle carriers, a temperature sensor for fire detection can quickly detect signs of a fire before it breaks out, and this detection signal can be transmitted to a central monitoring device via a control unit. Therefore, it can be expected that the fire detection and notification system disclosed in Patent Document 1 can prevent fires from occurring. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2005-312642 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0009] To implement a fire detection and notification system for vehicle carriers, such as the one disclosed in Patent Document 1, it is necessary to connect a control unit that receives detection signals from sensor units with a central monitoring device located in the wheelhouse or elsewhere, via communication means. Furthermore, the central monitoring device must be optimized for the fire detection information system. Thus, implementing such a fire detection and notification system requires considerable effort and cost.

[0010] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned points, and aims to provide a control system that can reduce the risk of fire using existing automatic fire alarm equipment. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] The control system according to the present invention comprises a sensor positioned separately from the detectors of an automatic fire alarm system in the space where the detectors are installed, and an actuator that performs processing to activate the detectors. The sensor detects gases indicating signs of ignition emitted by articles that are likely to ignite located in the space, before the articles are ignited. The control system according to the present invention further comprises a control device that causes the actuator to perform the processing described above, on the condition that the concentration of the gas detected by the sensor exceeds a predetermined concentration. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a control system that can reduce the risk of fire outbreaks using existing automatic fire alarm systems. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] [Figure 1] This diagram shows the equipment layout inside a vehicle carrier equipped with a control system and a fire warning system. [Figure 2] This is a schematic diagram showing a vehicle with a control system installed, viewed from the front. [Figure 3]It is a schematic view of a vehicle with a control system attached as seen from the side. [Figure 4] It is a diagram for explaining the hardware configuration of each device constituting the control system. [Figure 5] It is a flowchart for explaining the flow of processing executed by the control system. [Figure 6] It is a schematic view of the luggage compartment for explaining the state where the operating device is operating. [Figure 7] It is a schematic view of the luggage compartment for explaining the state where the operating device according to the modification is operating. [Figure 8] It is a schematic view of the luggage compartment for explaining the state where the operating device according to another modification is operating. [Figure 9] It is a diagram for explaining the hardware configuration of each device constituting the control system according to another form. [Figure 10] It is a flowchart for explaining the flow of processing executed by the control system. [Figure 11] It is a perspective view of a vehicle with a control system according to another form attached. [Figure 12] It is a schematic view of a vehicle with a control system according to another form attached as seen from the front. [Figure 13] It is a schematic view of a vehicle with a control system according to another form attached as seen from the side. [Figure 14] It is a schematic view of the luggage compartment for explaining the state where the operating device according to another form is operating. [Figure 15] It is a schematic view of a vehicle to which a control system according to yet another modification is applied as seen from the front. [Figure 16] It is a schematic front view of an operating device according to yet another modification. [Figure 17] It is a schematic bottom view of an operating device according to yet another modification. [Figure 18] It is a schematic front view of an operating device according to yet another modification. [Figure 19] It is a schematic bottom view of an operating device according to yet another modification. [Figure 20]This diagram illustrates the hardware configuration of each component constituting the control system in other modified cases. [Figure 21] This is a schematic diagram of the cargo compartment to illustrate the state in which the operating device related to other modifications is in operation. [Figure 22] This is a schematic diagram of the cargo compartment to illustrate the state in which the operating device related to other modifications is in operation. [Figure 23] This diagram illustrates the hardware configuration of each component that makes up a control system of a different form. [Figure 24] This is a schematic diagram of the cargo compartment to illustrate the state when other types of actuators are in operation. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0014] Each embodiment of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The embodiments described below illustrate the application of the present invention to a control system used in a vehicle carrier in which a vehicle equipped with a battery, which is an example of an article that may ignite, is loaded in the cargo compartment, which is an example of a space. In the embodiments described below, the same or common parts are denoted by the same reference numerals in the drawings, and their descriptions will not be repeated.

[0015] [Embodiment 1] Figure 1 shows the arrangement of equipment inside a vehicle carrier equipped with the control system and fire warning system according to this embodiment. Figure 2 is a schematic view of a vehicle equipped with the control system according to this embodiment, seen from the front. Figure 3 is a schematic view of a vehicle equipped with the control system according to this embodiment, seen from the side. First, before describing the control system 101 and fire warning system according to this embodiment, an overview of the configuration of the vehicle carrier 900 equipped with the control system 101 will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 3.

[0016] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the vehicle carrier 900 mainly consists of a wheelhouse 901 and a cargo room 902. Multiple crew members CR1 are stationed in the wheelhouse 901, and these multiple crew members CR1 are responsible for steering the vehicle carrier 900 and monitoring the ship's interior. In Figure 1, one of these multiple crew members CR1 is shown (the same applies to Figures 4 and 23, which will be described later).

[0017] The cargo compartments 902 are located on multiple decks within the vehicle carrier 900. Multiple vehicles 200 are densely arranged in each cargo compartment 902, with approximately 20 cm of space between them on all sides. The ceiling 902a of the cargo compartment 902 is configured to be raised and lowered according to the height of the vehicles 200. For example, the distance between the floor 902b and the ceiling 902a of the cargo compartment 902 (i.e., the ceiling height) is approximately 2 m.

[0018] In cargo compartment 902, crew member CR2 is responsible for patrolling and monitoring the cargo compartment 902. Figure 1 shows one of these multiple crew members CR2 (the same applies to Figures 4, 6 through 8, 14, 21, 23, and 24 described later).

[0019] The vehicle carrier 900 is equipped with an automatic fire alarm system 300 to enable prompt firefighting in the event of a fire on board. The automatic fire alarm system 300 has multiple detectors 301 and a receiver 302.

[0020] Multiple detectors 301 are installed on the ceiling 902a of the cargo compartment 902 so as to be positioned at predetermined intervals from one another. This allows the crew member CR1 to determine the approximate location of the fire based on a predetermined signal P (see Figure 4) transmitted from the activated detector 301 to the receiver 302 when a detector 301 is activated.

[0021] In this example, each detector 301 is a so-called photoelectric spot-type detector that detects smoke. A photoelectric spot-type detector has a light-emitting part and a light-receiving part inside. The light emitted from the light-emitting part collides with smoke particles that have entered the inside of the detector and is scattered. The scattered light is then detected by the light-receiving part. The detector is activated when the light-receiving part detects the light.

[0022] Furthermore, smoke detectors are not limited to photoelectric spot-type detectors. Smoke detectors may also be photoelectric separate-type detectors, etc.

[0023] When detector 301 is activated, receiver 302 receives the signal P transmitted from detector 301 and notifies the crew CR1, etc., of the fire. Receiver 302 is typically located in the wheelhouse 901. Receiver 302 mainly consists of a monitor 302a used for displaying alarms and the location of activated detector 301, a speaker 302b for at least audibly announcing alarms, and an operating unit 302c (see Figure 4, described later).

[0024] The detector 301 and the receiver 302 are connected by wiring (see dashed line in Figure 1). The signal P emitted when the detector 301 detects smoke and activates is transmitted to the receiver 302 via this wiring. When the receiver 302 receives the signal P emitted by the detector 301, the fire is reported to the crew CR1 in the wheelhouse 901.

[0025] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, each vehicle 200 located in the cargo compartment 902 has a built-in battery 201 for supplying power to a motor that serves as a drive source. A lithium-ion battery is preferably used as the battery 201. In Figures 1 to 3, etc., a private car is used as an example of a vehicle 200, but it is not limited to this. Any vehicle 200 can have a motor as a drive source, or a combination of an internal combustion engine and a motor as a drive source, and have wheels. For example, vehicle 200 may be a motorcycle, bus, truck, etc.

[0026] Battery 201 is a fire-prone item. Specifically, if Battery 201 deteriorates, the internal electrolyte oxidizes, generating flammable gas. If Battery 201 is subjected to any impact while flammable gas is present, it may ignite. Problems in the manufacturing process of Battery 201 can also lead to ignition. Overcharging can also cause Battery 201 to ignite.

[0027] As is known as the "tracking phenomenon," vehicles equipped with batteries can catch fire even when the power is off. More specifically, even when the power is off, if moisture such as humidity and foreign matter such as dust are present in the wiring connected to the battery, a short circuit can occur. This can cause the battery to catch fire.

[0028] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of each component of the control system shown in Figure 1. The configuration of the control system 101 will be described with reference to Figures 2 through 4.

[0029] As shown in Figures 2 to 4, the control system 101 comprises a sensor 10, an actuator 20, a control device 30, an alarm device 40, and a power supply 50. In the control system 101, the sensor 10, the actuator 20, the control device 30, the alarm device 40, and the power supply 50 are built into the housing 70. In other words, in this embodiment, the control system 101 is configured as a standalone device.

[0030] Sensor 10 is installed separately from the detector 301 of the automatic fire alarm system 300. Sensor 10 detects gas generated by thermal runaway of the battery 201 located in the cargo compartment 902 before the battery 201 ignites. In this embodiment, sensor 10 primarily detects gas present in the space between the vehicle 200 and the floor 902b of the cargo compartment 902.

[0031] More specifically, sensor 10 detects the concentration of a predetermined type of gas in the space. The predetermined type of gas includes at least one of the following: gas produced by the evaporation of the electrolyte of battery 201, gas produced by the thermal decomposition of the electrolyte of battery 201, and gas produced by the reaction between the electrodes of battery 201 and the electrolyte of battery 201.

[0032] Gases produced by the thermal decomposition of the electrolyte of battery 201 include hydrogen, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, methane, ethane, ethylene, acetylene, propane, propylene, butane, and pentane. Gases produced by the reaction between the electrodes of battery 201 and the electrolyte of battery 201 include hydrogen sulfide, carbonyl sulfide, carbon disulfide, methyl sulfide, methyl disulfide, hydrogen fluoride, and hydrogen chloride. The above predetermined types of gases may be one or more of these gases.

[0033] In this embodiment, the electrolyte of the battery 201 is an electrolyte solution. For example, any of the following carbonate esters can be used as the electrolyte: ethyl methyl carbonate, diethyl carbonate, dimethyl carbonate, ethyl carbonate, vinylene carbonate, fluoroethylene carbonate, 1,3-propanesultone, propylene carbonate, and dimethoxyethane. Note that the electrolyte is not limited to a liquid and may be a solid.

[0034] An air quality sensor is used as sensor 10. The air quality sensor detects a predetermined type of gas. Examples of air quality sensors include sensors using laser scattering, sensors using optical methods, electrochemical sensors, semiconductor sensors, sensors using infrared absorption, and photoelectric sensors.

[0035] Sensors utilizing laser scattering methods calculate the number and size of particles by irradiating them with laser light and measuring the intensity of the scattered light. Using sensors employing laser scattering methods enables highly accurate real-time measurements. Examples of sensors utilizing laser scattering methods include the SPS30 (Sensirion), PMS5003 (Plantower), and HPMA115S0 (Honeywell).

[0036] Sensors that utilize optical methods detect the attenuation of light caused by particles blocking light, by using a light source and a photodetector.

[0037] In an electrochemical sensor, particles of a specific gas are adsorbed onto the sensor's electrodes. This adsorption triggers a chemical reaction that generates an electric current. The electrochemical sensor detects changes in this current to calculate the concentration of the specific gas.

[0038] In semiconductor sensors, particles of a specific gas are adsorbed onto the surface of the semiconductor material of the sensor, and this adsorption changes the electrical resistance of the semiconductor material. The semiconductor sensor calculates the concentration of the specific gas by detecting this change in electrical resistance.

[0039] Sensors that utilize infrared absorption (NDIR sensors) take advantage of the phenomenon that certain gases absorb infrared radiation of specific wavelengths. NDIR sensors detect the amount of light absorbed by a specific gas as light emitted from an infrared source passes through it. Based on this decrease in light, NDIR sensors calculate the concentration of the specific gas.

[0040] A photoelectric sensor has a light source and a light receiver inside. Light emitted from the light source collides with gas particles that have entered the photoelectric sensor and is scattered. The scattered light is then detected by the light receiver. The photoelectric sensor detects that gas is present at a concentration above a predetermined level by detecting the light with the light receiver.

[0041] Of the air quality sensors described above, the power consumption of the sensor using the laser scattering method, the sensor using the optical method, and the photoelectric sensor is less than that of the other types of air quality sensors described above. Therefore, from the viewpoint of reducing the power consumption of sensor 10, it is preferable to use one of the above-mentioned air quality sensors—the sensor using the laser scattering method, the sensor using the optical method, or the photoelectric sensor—as sensor 10.

[0042] From the standpoint of providing partial or complete redundancy, it is preferable to install multiple sensors 10. This allows other sensors 10 to take over the function if one sensor 10 fails.

[0043] If the battery 201 experiences thermal runaway, at least one of the following will leak out of the battery 201: the electrolyte, the gas produced by the evaporation of the electrolyte, the gas produced by the thermal decomposition of the electrolyte, and the gas produced by the reaction between the electrodes of the battery 201 and the electrolyte, and further leak out of the vehicle 200 on which the battery 201 is installed.

[0044] The electrolyte that leaks outside of vehicle 200 accumulates on the floor 902b located below vehicle 200.

[0045] Most of the gases that leak outside vehicle 200 remain in the space between vehicle 200 and floor 902b. This is because, with the exception of some (specifically hydrogen, carbon monoxide, methane, and hydrogen fluoride), most of these gases have a specific gravity greater than that of air.

[0046] The sensor 10 detects the gas that accumulates in the space between the vehicle 200 and the floor 902b when the battery 201 experiences thermal runaway, even before the battery 201 ignites.

[0047] The actuator 20 performs a process to activate the detector 301. Here, the content of the above process varies depending on the type of detector 301 installed in the cargo compartment 902, and in this embodiment, the actuator 20 only needs to emit either smoke or heat. In this example, since the detector 301 detects smoke, the actuator 20 emits smoke as the above process. For this reason, in this embodiment, the actuator 20 includes a smoke flare. The smoke flare may use a smoke-generating agent composed of gunpowder, or it may use compressed gas composed of a powder fire extinguishing agent or nanozeolite.

[0048] The control device 30 acquires information on the concentration of the gas detected by the sensor 10 from the sensor 10 at predetermined control cycles T (for example, every second). The control device 30 causes the actuator 20 to execute a process to activate the detector 301 when the concentration of the predetermined type of gas detected by the sensor 10 exceeds a predetermined concentration. Specifically, the control device 30 generates smoke from the actuator 20 when the concentration of the predetermined type of gas detected by the sensor 10 exceeds a set concentration M.

[0049] The set concentration M is appropriately set to a concentration higher than the concentration M0 of the predetermined type of gas in normal atmospheric conditions, to the extent that it has a significant difference from the concentration M0 of the predetermined type of gas. This allows the control device 30 to generate smoke from the actuator 20 only when the battery 201 experiences thermal runaway, before the battery 201 ignites.

[0050] The control device 30 has as its main components a CPU (Central Processing Unit) for executing programs, ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), and flash memory. The various processes in this embodiment are realized by the CPU executing programs.

[0051] More specifically, the CPU (processing unit) performs predetermined calculations based on the gas concentration information obtained from the sensor 10. ROM and flash memory store data non-volatilely. Flash memory stores the above-mentioned program. RAM stores data generated by the execution of the program by the CPU volatilely. Each component of the control device 30 is connected to the others by a data bus.

[0052] The alarm device 40 emits an alarm to the surrounding area of ​​the housing 70 by sound and / or light. In this embodiment, the alarm device 40 is a buzzer that emits sound and light (typically a flash) continuously. However, the alarm device 40 is not limited to this, and can be configured to emit an alarm to the surrounding area of ​​the housing 70 by at least one of sound and light.

[0053] The actuator 20, the control device 30, and the alarm device 40 are powered by a power supply 50 built into the housing 70. In this example, the power supply 50 is a primary battery. Primary batteries are inexpensive and readily available worldwide. The power supply 50 may be a primary battery, a secondary battery, or a power supply provided from the ship's power supply via an AC / DC (Alternating Current / Direct Current) converter or a USB (Universal Serial Bus) cable that converts AC voltage to DC voltage.

[0054] The housing 70 has a roughly rectangular parallelepiped shape. The housing 70 is positioned in contact with the portion of the bottom surface 200a of the vehicle 200 that is located near the battery 201. More specifically, the housing 70 has magnets (not shown) on the portion of its outer surface that is opposite the bottom surface 200a. The housing 70 is attached to the bottom surface 200a by the magnetic force of the magnets.

[0055] The housing 70 is not limited to a roughly rectangular parallelepiped shape and can be modified as appropriate. The method of attaching the housing 70 to the bottom surface 200a is not limited to the magnetic force of magnets. For example, the housing 70 may be attached to the bottom surface 200a by the adhesive force of an adhesive provided on the part of the outer surface of the housing 70 that faces the bottom surface 200a. Suitable components of the adhesive include thermoplastic elastomers, urethane rubber, silicone rubber, acrylic rubber, natural rubber, synthetic rubber, etc. From the viewpoint of heat resistance and weather resistance, it is preferable to use silicone rubber as a component of the adhesive.

[0056] After the loading of the vehicle 200 onto the vehicle carrier 900 is complete, the vehicle 200 is secured to the floor 902b by lashing belts 500 (see Figure 11 below) attached to the floor 902b to prevent it from moving during the voyage. The attachment of the housing 70 to the bottom surface 200a is typically done at the same time as the attachment of the lashing belts 500 to the vehicle 200. The removal of the housing 70 from the bottom surface 200a is done before the vehicle 200 is unloaded from the vehicle carrier 900. The removal of the housing 70 from the bottom surface 200a is done at the same time as the release of the vehicle 200 from being secured by the lashing belts 500.

[0057] The fire warning system, comprising the control system 101 configured as described above and an automatic fire alarm system 300 having a detector 301 and a receiver 302, makes it possible to warn of signs of fire originating from a vehicle 200 located in the cargo compartment 902 where the detector 301 is installed. This point will be described in detail later.

[0058] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow performed by the control system shown in Figure 4. The processing performed in the control system 101 will be explained with reference to Figure 5.

[0059] In this example, the following processes by the control system 101 are started after a predetermined time (for example, 30 minutes) has elapsed since the loading of the vehicle 200 onto the vehicle carrier 900 was completed. More specifically, the following processes are executed after a predetermined time has elapsed since the housing 70 was attached to the bottom surface 200a of the vehicle 200. More specifically, the following processes are executed after a predetermined time has elapsed since a switch (for example, a power switch or a switch to start operation) provided on the housing 70 was turned on by the user. This is because immediately after loading the vehicle 200 onto the vehicle carrier 900, the battery 201 has become considerably heated due to the operation performed for loading. It is preferable that the above switch is provided so as not to protrude from the outer surface of the housing 70 in order to prevent accidental operation.

[0060] As shown in Figure 5, in step S1, the control device 30 determines whether or not a predetermined control period T has arrived. If it is determined that the control period T has arrived (YES in step S1), the control device 30 proceeds to step S2. If it is determined that the control period T has not arrived (NO in step S1), the control device 30 proceeds to step S1.

[0061] In step S2, the control device 30 obtains information on the gas concentration detected by the sensor 10 from the sensor 10. After step S2, in step S3, the control device 30 determines whether the gas concentration is equal to or greater than the set concentration M.

[0062] If the gas concentration is determined to be equal to or greater than the set concentration M (if the answer is YES in step S3), the control device 30 activates the alarm device 40 in step S4, generating sound and light (typically a flash) continuously. This notifies the surroundings of the occurrence of an abnormality. After a certain period of time has elapsed since the alarm device 40 started to operate, the actuator 20 is activated in step S5 to release smoke.

[0063] If the gas concentration is determined to be less than the set concentration M (i.e., NO in step S3), the control device 30 proceeds to step S1. The control device 30 may execute the process in step S5 before the process in step S4. Alternatively, the control device 30 may execute the process in step S4 and the process in step S5 simultaneously.

[0064] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the cargo compartment illustrating the state in which the actuator shown in Figure 4 is activated. Referring to Figures 4 and 6, the processes performed by the control system 101 and the processes performed by the fire warning system equipped with the control system 101 will be explained.

[0065] As described above, the control device 30 activates the actuator 20, causing smoke 800 to be emitted from the smoke flares contained in the actuator 20, as shown in Figures 4 and 6. The smoke 800 diffuses around the housing 70. The diffused smoke 800 is detected by sensors 301 installed on the ceiling 902a. Typically, the diffused smoke 800 is detected by sensors 301 installed on the ceiling 902a near the vehicle 200 to which the control system 101 with the activated actuator 20 is attached.

[0066] When the smoke 800 is detected by the detector 301, the detector 301 is activated. When the detector 301 is activated, a signal P is transmitted from the activated detector 301 to the receiver 302. Upon receiving the signal P, the receiver 302 displays an alarm on the monitor 302a or emits an alarm through the speaker 302b. As a result, the crew member CR1 located in the wheelhouse 901 can learn that the battery 201 is in an abnormal temperature state. In other words, the crew member CR1 can learn that there are signs of a fire caused by the battery 201.

[0067] Thus, the control system 101 makes it possible to activate the automatic fire alarm system 300 before the battery 201 ignites. This allows crew members CR1, CR2, etc., to quickly take predetermined appropriate action before the battery 201 ignites. As a result, the control system 101 makes it possible to reduce the risk of fire in the cargo compartment 902 caused by the vehicle 200.

[0068] The control system 101 alerts the vehicle carrier 900 to signs of a fire originating from the vehicle 200 using the vehicle carrier 900's existing automatic fire alarm system 300. Therefore, the only work required to install the control system 101 is to attach it to the vehicle 200.

[0069] As described above, the control system 101 makes it possible to reduce the risk of fire using existing automatic fire alarm equipment. Furthermore, the control system 101 can be easily introduced to the vehicle carrier 900.

[0070] When the control system 101 is used, smoke 800 is emitted from below the vehicle 200, which is equipped with the thermally runaway battery 201, by the actuator 20. As a result, the crew CR2 located in the cargo compartment 902 can instantly identify the location of the vehicle 200 to which the control system 101 is installed, by visually observing the emitted smoke 800. Therefore, the crew CR2 can take appropriate action quickly before the battery 201 ignites. Consequently, the risk of fire originating from the vehicle 200 in the cargo compartment 902 can be further reduced.

[0071] Furthermore, in the control system 101, simultaneously with the ejection of smoke 800 by the actuator 20, the alarm device 40 continuously emits sound and light below the vehicle 200. Therefore, the crew CR2 can instantly pinpoint the location of the vehicle 200 by the sound and light emitted by the alarm device 40. Thus, the risk of fire in the cargo compartment 902 caused by the vehicle 200 can be further reduced.

[0072] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the housing 70 can be positioned appropriately within the range in which the sensor 10 can detect the occurrence of an abnormality in the vehicle 200. For example, as described above, the housing 70 can be positioned in contact with the bottom surface 200a of the vehicle 200. In this way, according to this example, the sensor 10 can be installed in a position in which an abnormality in the vehicle 200 can be reliably detected. That is, according to this example, the position of the sensor 10 can be appropriately changed so that the object to be detected (battery 201 or an item containing it) is not located in the blind spot of the sensor 10. Therefore, according to this example, it is possible to prevent the sensor 10 from failing to detect the occurrence (manifestation) of an abnormality and the resulting delay in the discovery of the abnormality. According to this example, an initial response to an abnormality in the vehicle 200 can be carried out quickly.

[0073] Furthermore, in the control system 101, the sensor 10 is configured to primarily detect gas present in the space between the vehicle 200 and the floor 902b of the cargo compartment 902. This allows for highly sensitive detection of gas generated when the battery 201 overheats. As mentioned above, the specific gravity of most of the gas species contained in this gas is greater than that of air.

[0074] In this embodiment, the example described was one in which the sensor 10 primarily detects gas present in the space between the vehicle 200 and the floor 902b of the cargo compartment 902. However, the gas detected by the sensor 10 does not necessarily have to be gas present in the space between the vehicle 200 and the floor 902b of the cargo compartment 902; it can be any gas present around the vehicle 200. In this case, it is preferable that the sensor 10 is configured to detect gas present in the space within a range of 0.45 m from the outer surface of the vehicle body of the vehicle 200.

[0075] In this embodiment, the control system 101 was described as being applied to a vehicle carrier 900 in which a vehicle 200 containing a battery 201 is placed in a cargo compartment 902 where a detector 301 of an automatic fire alarm system 300 is installed. However, the control system 101 can naturally be applied to vehicles other than vehicle carriers in which such vehicles are placed in the cargo compartment.

[0076] As an example, the control system 101 may be used in a cargo warehouse equipped with a cargo compartment (space) where a detector for an automatic fire alarm system is installed and a large-capacity battery system such as a household storage battery (for items that may ignite) is located.

[0077] As another example, the control system 101 may be used in a freight train that has a container (space) in which a sensor for an automatic fire alarm system is installed and a smartphone containing a battery (an item that may ignite) is placed.

[0078] As another example, the control system 101 may be used in a ship or the like that has a cargo compartment (space) where an automatic fire alarm system detector is installed and an unmanned or manned drone powered by a battery (for items that may ignite) is positioned.

[0079] <Variation> (First variation) Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the cargo compartment illustrating the state in which the actuator according to the first modified example is in operation. Hereinafter, the control system 101A according to the first modified example of Embodiment 1 will be described with reference to Figure 7.

[0080] As shown in Figure 7, the control system 101A according to this modified example has a housing 70A instead of housing 70. Compared to the control system 101, the control system 101A differs in the arrangement of housing 70A.

[0081] More specifically, in the control system 101, the housing 70 is positioned in contact with a portion of the bottom surface 200a of the vehicle 200 that is located near (more specifically, directly below) the battery 201 (see Figure 2, etc.), whereas in the control system 101A, the housing 70A is positioned near the vehicle 200 without contacting it. More specifically, in the control system 101A, the housing 70A is placed on the floor 902b of the cargo compartment 902, which is opposite to the portion of the bottom surface 200a of the vehicle 200 that is located directly below the battery 201.

[0082] Even when the control system 101A is configured in this way, effects similar to those described in the above-described embodiment can be obtained. Therefore, with the control system 101A, the risk of fire can be reduced using existing automatic fire alarm equipment.

[0083] (Second variation) In this modified example, a configuration is described in which the automatic fire alarm system includes, instead of the smoke detector 301, a detector configured to detect at least ultraviolet light. Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the cargo compartment to illustrate the state in which the actuator according to the second modified example is activated. Hereinafter, the control system 101B according to the second modified example of Embodiment 1 will be described with reference to Figure 8.

[0084] As shown in Figure 8, in this modified example, the automatic fire alarm system 300 has multiple detectors 301A and a receiver 302. Specifically, detectors 301A are installed in the cargo compartment 902 instead of detectors 301.

[0085] Detector 301A is an ultraviolet spot-type detector that senses the intensity of ultraviolet light and activates when the change in the intensity of ultraviolet light exceeds a predetermined change W1. Thus, this modified example differs from the above configuration which uses smoke detector 301 to detect smoke 800, in that it uses detector 301A which senses the intensity of ultraviolet light. Accordingly, the configuration of the actuator in control system 101B also differs from the configuration of actuator 20 in control system 101.

[0086] More specifically, in the control system 101 according to the above-described embodiment, the actuator 20 emits smoke 800 as a process for activating the sensor 301 (see Figure 6, etc.), whereas in the control system 101B according to this modified example, the actuator generates ultraviolet light as a process for activating the sensor 301A. More specifically, in this modified example, an ultraviolet LED (Light Emitting Diode) light that emits light including ultraviolet light is used as the actuator. Specifically, the ultraviolet LED light emits light including ultraviolet light so that the amount of change in the intensity of ultraviolet light detected by the sensor 301A is equal to or greater than a predetermined change amount W1.

[0087] According to the control system 101B, the control device 30 emits ultraviolet light from the actuator. Because ultraviolet light travels in a straight line, the emitted ultraviolet light reflects off surrounding objects repeatedly as it enters the detection range of the detector 301A. As a result, the change in the intensity of the ultraviolet light detected by the detector 301A becomes greater than or equal to the change amount W1. Consequently, the detector 301A can be activated. Thus, in this modified example, the actuator can activate the detector 301A even when no flame is present.

[0088] Even when the control system 101B is configured in this way, effects similar to those described in the above-described embodiment can be obtained. Therefore, with the control system 101B, the risk of fire can be reduced using existing automatic fire alarm equipment.

[0089] The control system 101B according to this modified example differs from the control system 101 according to the embodiment described above in the arrangement of the housing 70. Specifically, in the control system 101B, the housing 70 is arranged such that a part of the housing 70 protrudes outward from the periphery of the bottom surface 200a of the vehicle 200. This allows the sensor 301A to more reliably detect ultraviolet light emitted from the actuator compared to when the housing 70 is positioned in contact with the portion of the bottom surface 200a directly below the battery 201.

[0090] In the above explanation, an example configuration was given in which an ultraviolet spot-type detector is installed on the ceiling 902a as detector 301A. However, the system is not limited to this. An infrared spot-type detector that senses the intensity of infrared radiation and activates when the change in the intensity of infrared radiation exceeds a predetermined change amount W2 may also be used as detector 301A. In this case, the activation device can be a device that emits infrared radiation instead of ultraviolet radiation. Specifically, an infrared LED light or laser diode is used to emit light containing infrared radiation so that the change in the intensity of infrared radiation sensed by detector 301A exceeds a predetermined change amount W2. Even with such a configuration, the activation device can activate detector 301A even when no flame is present.

[0091] [Embodiment 2] Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of each device constituting the control system according to Embodiment 2. Figure 10 is a flowchart illustrating the processing flow performed by the control system shown in Figure 9. Figure 11 is a perspective view of a vehicle equipped with a control system according to another embodiment. Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of a vehicle equipped with a control system according to another embodiment viewed from the front. Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of a vehicle equipped with a control system according to another embodiment viewed from the side. Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of the cargo compartment illustrating the state in which the actuator according to this embodiment is in operation.

[0092] The control system 102, the fire warning system equipped with the control system 102, and the control method according to this embodiment will be described below with reference to Figures 9 to 14. In this embodiment, the control system 102 is used instead of the control system 101.

[0093] In the control system 101 of Embodiment 1, various devices are housed in a single housing 70, as shown in Figure 4. In contrast, in the control system 102 of this embodiment, as shown in Figures 9 to 14, the devices are distributed and housed in a first housing 71 and a second housing 72. Thus, in this embodiment, the control system 102 is composed of two devices: a first device (first unit) and a second device (second unit). In this respect, the control system 102 of this embodiment differs from the control system 101 of Embodiment 1.

[0094] More specifically, in this embodiment, a roughly rectangular first housing 71 houses a sensor 10, a control device 30, an alarm device 40, a power supply 50, and a first communication interface 61. A roughly rectangular second housing 72 houses an actuator 20, a power supply 50A, and a second communication interface 62. The first interface 61 and the second interface 62 are configured to transmit and receive signals to each other via wireless communication. The power supply 50A supplies power to the actuator 20 and the second interface 62. Note that communication between the first interface 61 and the second interface 62 is not limited to wireless communication but may also be wired communication.

[0095] As shown in Figures 11 to 13, the first housing 71, which houses the sensor 10 and the like, is attached to the lashing belt 500 via the strap 501. The first housing 71 is positioned on the floor 902b in the vicinity of the part directly beneath the vehicle 200. Thus, the first housing 71 is positioned in the vicinity of the battery 201. The second housing 72 is positioned around the sensor 301. More specifically, the second housing 72 is placed on the floor 902b in the part below the sensor 301.

[0096] As shown in Figure 10, the processing flow executed by the control system 102 differs from the processing flow executed by the control system 101 of Embodiment 1 (see Figure 5) in that it has steps S11 and S12 between step S4 and step S5.

[0097] Specifically, if in step S3 the gas concentration is determined to be equal to or greater than the set concentration M (if the answer in step S3 is YES), the control device 30 activates the alarm device 40 in step S4, generating sound and light (typically a flash) continuously. This notifies the surroundings of the occurrence of an abnormality. After a certain period of time has elapsed since the alarm device 40 started operating, in step 11 the control device 30 transmits a control command Q to the actuator 20 via the first interface 61. In step S12 the actuator 20 receives the control command Q via the second interface 62.

[0098] In step S5, based on the fact that the actuator 20 has received the control command Q, the actuator 20 emits smoke 800. Thus, in step S5, the control device 30 activates the actuator 20 by remote command to emit smoke 800 from the actuator 20 (more specifically, the smoke flare). Note that the process in step S4 may be performed simultaneously with the process in step S5, or after the process in step S5.

[0099] Even when the control system 102 is configured in this way, effects similar to those described in Embodiment 1 above can be obtained. Therefore, the control system 102 makes it possible to reduce the risk of fire using existing automatic fire alarm equipment.

[0100] In the control system 102, the smoke 800 emitted by the actuator 20 is ejected below the sensor 301. Therefore, by using the control system 102, the sensor 301 can more reliably detect the smoke 800 ejected from the actuator 20.

[0101] In the control system 102, as described above, the first housing 71, which houses the sensor 10 and other components, is attached to the lashing belt 500. This makes it possible to install the first housing 71 at the same time as attaching the lashing belt 500 to the vehicle 200. As a result, the workload required for installing the control system 102 is reduced.

[0102] Furthermore, although this embodiment has been described using the example of the control device 30 being built into the first housing 71, the control device 30 may also be built into the second housing 72. That is, in the control system 102, the sensor 10, the power supply 50, and the first interface 61 may be built into the first housing 71, and the control device 30, the actuator 20, the power supply 50A, and the second interface 62 may be built into the second housing 72.

[0103] In this configuration, the sensor 10 transmits information about the gas concentration detected by the sensor 10 to the control device 30 via the first interface 61. The control device 30 receives this information via the second interface 62, and, on the condition that the gas concentration indicated by this information is equal to or greater than the set concentration M, activates the actuator 20 to eject smoke 800. Even with this configuration, the same effect as in the configuration in which the control device 30 is built into the first housing 71 can be obtained.

[0104] Furthermore, with this configuration, the first housing 71, which is the housing attached to the lashing belt 500, can be made smaller. As a result, the workability of attaching the lashing belt 500 to the vehicle 200, removing the lashing belt 500 from the vehicle 200, and installing the first housing 71, which is done in conjunction with these operations, can be improved.

[0105] <Variation> (First variation) In this modified example, the automatic fire alarm system 300 is described in which a detector 301B configured to detect heat is provided instead of a smoke detector 301. Figure 15 is a schematic view from the front of a vehicle to which the control system according to the first modified example of this embodiment is applied. Figure 16 is a schematic front view of the actuator according to this modified example. Figure 17 is a schematic bottom view of the actuator according to this modified example. Hereinafter, the control system 102A according to the first modified example of Embodiment 2 will be described with reference to Figures 15 to 17.

[0106] As shown in Figures 15 to 17, in this modified example, the control system 102A includes a second housing 72A instead of the second housing 72. The second housing 72A houses an actuator 20A instead of the actuator 20. In the following example, the control device 30 is assumed to be housed in the first housing 71.

[0107] The automatic fire alarm system 300 has multiple detectors 301B and a receiver 302. Specifically, detectors 301B are installed in the cargo compartment 902 instead of detectors 301.

[0108] Detector 301B is a so-called differential spot-type detector that operates when the internal pressure of the air chamber provided in detector 301B exceeds a set pressure. Inside the differential spot-type detector is an air chamber. This air chamber is equipped with a diaphragm and contacts. In detector 301B, the diaphragm deforms as the internal pressure of the air chamber rises. This deformation of the diaphragm closes the contacts. When these contacts close, detector 301B operates.

[0109] Thus, this modified example differs from the configuration using the smoke detector 301 described in the embodiment, or the ultraviolet spot type or infrared spot type detector 301A described in the modified example of Embodiment 1, in that it uses a differential spot type detector 301B.

[0110] As described above, since the sensor 301B differs from the sensor 301, the configuration of the actuator 20A and the arrangement of the second housing 72A in the control system 102A differ from the configuration of the actuator 20 and the arrangement of the second housing 72 in the control system 102.

[0111] More specifically, in the control system 102 according to the second embodiment described above, the actuator 20 ejects smoke 800 as a process to activate the sensor 301 (see Figure 14, etc.), whereas in the control system 102A according to this modified example, the actuator 20A applies external pressure to the air chamber of the sensor 301B as a process to activate the sensor 301B. In this modified example, the actuator 20A is one having an actuator 21 configured to reciprocate in the vertical direction.

[0112] The second housing 72A, which houses the actuator 20A and the like, has a gripping portion 72a consisting of a pair of arm-shaped parts. The gripping portion 72a grips the sensor 301B. As a result, the second housing 72A is positioned in contact with the sensor 301B.

[0113] In the control system 102A configured in this way, the actuator 20A drives the actuator 21 based on the receipt of a control command Q via the second interface 62. When the actuator 21 is driven, the outer wall portion of the sensor 301B that defines the air chamber is pressed by the actuator 21. When the outer wall portion is pressed, the internal pressure of the air chamber increases. Specifically, the actuator 20A operates the actuator 21 so that the internal pressure of the air chamber becomes equal to or greater than the set pressure. As a result, the sensor 301B is activated. Even with this configuration, the actuator 20A can activate the sensor 301B even when no heat is generated.

[0114] Even when the control system 102A is configured in this way, effects similar to those described in Embodiments 1 and 2 above can be obtained. Therefore, with the control system 102A, the risk of fire can be reduced using existing automatic fire alarm equipment.

[0115] In this modified example, the case in which the actuator 20A has an actuator 21 was used as an example, but the actuator 20A is not limited to having an actuator 21. For example, the actuator 20A may have a servo motor and an elastic member such as a spring. In this case, the driving force of the servo motor can press the elastic member toward the outer wall of the sensor 301B. Alternatively, the actuator 20A may have a gas generator. In this case, by operating the gas generator directly below the sensor 301B, it is possible to increase the internal pressure of the air chamber. Alternatively, the actuator 20A may have explosives. In this case, by detonating the explosives directly below the sensor 301B, it is possible to increase the internal pressure of the air chamber.

[0116] (Second variation) In this modified example, the automatic fire alarm system 300 will also be described in which a detector configured to detect heat is included. Figure 18 is a schematic front view of the actuator according to the second modified example of this embodiment. Figure 19 is a schematic bottom view of the actuator according to this modified example. The control system 102B according to this modified example will be described below with reference to Figures 18 and 19.

[0117] As shown in Figures 18 and 19, in this modified example, the control system 102B includes a second housing 72B instead of the second housing 72. The second housing 72B houses an actuator 20B instead of the actuator 20. In the following example, the control device 30 is assumed to be housed in the first housing 71.

[0118] The automatic fire alarm system 300 has multiple detectors 301C and a receiver 302. Specifically, detectors 301C are installed in the cargo compartment 902 instead of detectors 301.

[0119] Detector 301C is a fixed-temperature spot-type detector that activates when the ambient temperature around it exceeds a predetermined set temperature. The fixed-temperature spot-type detector has a heat receiving plate, a circular bimetallic strip, and a contact. In detector 301C, as the temperature of the heat receiving plate rises, the circular bimetallic strip deforms or inverts. This deformation or inversion closes the contact. When the contact closes, the detector activates.

[0120] As described above, since the sensor 301C differs from the sensor 301, the configuration of the actuator 20B and the arrangement of the second housing 72B in the control system 102B differ from the configuration of the actuator 20 and the arrangement of the second housing 72 in the control system 102. Note that the arrangement of the second housing 72B is the same as that of the second housing 72A in the first modified example of this embodiment, so its explanation will not be repeated.

[0121] More specifically, in the control system 102 according to Embodiment 2, the actuator 20 emits smoke 800 as a process for activating the sensor 301 (see Figure 14, etc.), whereas in the control system 102B according to this modified example, the actuator 20B generates heat as a process for activating the sensor 301C. More specifically, the actuator 20B has a nichrome wire 22. The actuator 20B generates enough heat to raise the ambient temperature of the sensor 301C above the set temperature by making the nichrome wire 22 red-hot.

[0122] In the control system 102B configured in this way, the actuator 20B, upon receiving a control command Q via the second interface 62, causes the nichrome wire 22 to glow red. When the ambient temperature around the sensor 301C rises above the set temperature due to the glowing red of the nichrome wire 22, the temperature of the heat receiving plate rises. As the temperature of the heat receiving plate rises, the circular bimetal inverts or otherwise. This inversion or other action causes the sensor 301C to activate. Even with this configuration, the actuator 20B can activate the sensor 301C even when no heat is generated by a flame.

[0123] Even when the control system 102B is configured in this way, effects similar to those described in Embodiments 1 and 2 can be obtained. Therefore, with the control system 102B, the risk of fire can be reduced using existing automatic fire alarm equipment.

[0124] In this modified example, the case in which the actuator 20B has a nichrome wire 22 was used as an example, but the actuator 20B is not limited to having a nichrome wire 22. For example, the actuator 20B may have a Peltier element or an explosive. In this case, the Peltier element or explosive generates heat, which can activate the sensor 301C.

[0125] (Third variation) In this modified example, the automatic fire alarm system 300 is configured to include a detector 301D that detects a signal instead of a smoke detector 301. Figure 20 is a diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of each component constituting the control system 102C according to the third modified example of this embodiment. Figure 21 is a schematic diagram of the cargo compartment illustrating the state in which the actuator according to this modified example is activated. Hereinafter, the control system 102C according to the third modified example of Embodiment 2 will be described with reference to Figures 20 and 21.

[0126] As shown in Figures 20 and 21, in this modified example, the control system 102C includes a first housing 71C instead of the first housing 71. The sensor 10 and the first interface 61 are housed inside the first housing 71C.

[0127] The control system 102C includes a second housing 72C instead of the second housing 72. The second housing 72C houses the actuator 20C, the control device 30C, the power supply 50C, and the second interface 62. The second housing 72C is located adjacent to the third interface 63, which will be described later.

[0128] The control system 102C further includes a third interface 63 for communication. The third interface 63 is a relay that relays the transmission and reception of signals between the first interface 61 and the second interface 62, and relays the transmission of signals from the second interface 62 to the sensor 301D. The third interface 63 is installed, for example, on the ceiling 902a of the cargo compartment 902. However, the placement of the third interface 63 is not limited to this, and it may be installed on the wall of the cargo compartment 902, or on the floor 902b of the cargo compartment 902.

[0129] The automatic fire alarm system 300 has multiple detectors 301D and a receiver 302. Specifically, detectors 301D are installed in the cargo compartment 902 instead of detectors 301.

[0130] The sensor 301D is activated by receiving a predetermined signal. As a result of using the sensor 301D configured in this way, the configuration of the actuator 20C in the control system 102C differs from the configuration of the actuator 20 in the control system 102.

[0131] More specifically, in the control system 102 according to the above-described embodiment 2, the actuator 20 emits smoke 800 as a process to activate the sensor 301 (see Figure 14, etc.), whereas in the control system 102C according to this modified example, the actuator 20C transmits a predetermined signal P1 to the sensor 301D as a process to activate the sensor 301D. In this modified example, the actuator 20C is a transmitter configured to transmit the signal P1 to the sensor 301D via wireless or wired communication.

[0132] In the control system 102C configured in this way, the control device 30C acquires information on the gas concentration detected by the sensor 10 from the sensor 10 at predetermined first cycles (for example, every 30 seconds). When the gas concentration detected by the sensor 10 becomes equal to or greater than the set concentration N, the control device 30C sends a control command Q1 to the sensor 10 to change the first cycle to a shorter, predetermined second cycle (for example, every 10 seconds). From then on, the control device 30C acquires information on the gas concentration detected by the sensor 10 from the sensor 10 at predetermined second cycles. The set concentration N is set to a concentration lower than the set concentration M described above.

[0133] When the gas concentration detected by the sensor 10 reaches or exceeds the set concentration M, the control device 30C causes the actuator 20C to send a signal P1 to the detector 301D. This activates the detector 301D.

[0134] Even when the control system 102C is configured in this way, effects similar to those described in Embodiments 1 and 2 above can be obtained. Therefore, with the control system 102C, the risk of fire can be reduced using existing automatic fire alarm equipment.

[0135] Furthermore, as described above, the control system 102 is configured such that, when the gas concentration detected by the sensor 10 meets predetermined conditions, the control device 30C can change the period for acquiring information from the sensor 10 from the first period to a shorter second period. This makes it possible to monitor the gas concentration more intensively in situations where the risk of fire is relatively high.

[0136] In this modified example, the case in which the control system 102C is equipped with a third interface 63 was described as an example. However, if the first interface 61 and the second interface 62 can communicate directly, and the second interface 62 can directly transmit signals to the sensor 301D, the control system 102C does not necessarily need to be equipped with a third interface 63.

[0137] (Fourth variation) Figure 22 is a schematic diagram of the cargo compartment illustrating the state in which the actuator according to the fourth modified example is in operation. The control system according to the fourth modified example of Embodiment 2 will be described below with reference to Figure 22.

[0138] As shown in Figure 22, in this modified example, the control system includes a first housing 71D instead of the first housing 71. The sensor 10 and the first interface 61 are housed inside the first housing 71D.

[0139] The first housing 71D includes a magnet 600 on at least a portion of its outer surface. In this modified example, the floor 902b of the cargo compartment 902 is made of a magnetic metal material. The first housing 71D is fixed to the floor 902b by the magnet 600.

[0140] Even when the control system is configured in this way, effects similar to those described in Embodiments 1 and 2 above can be obtained. Therefore, the control system makes it possible to reduce the risk of fire using existing automatic fire alarm equipment.

[0141] [Embodiment 3] Figure 23 is a diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of each component constituting the control system according to Embodiment 3. Figure 24 is a schematic diagram of the cargo compartment illustrating the state in which the actuator according to Embodiment 3 is in operation.

[0142] The control system 103, the fire alarm system equipped with the control system 103, and the control method according to this embodiment will be described below with reference to Figures 23 and 24. In this embodiment, the control system 103 is used instead of the control system 101. Also, in this embodiment, the sensor 13 is used instead of the sensor 10.

[0143] In the control system 101 of Embodiment 1, as shown in Figure 6, the sensor 10 detects the gas concentration around one vehicle 200. In contrast, in the control system 103 of this embodiment, as shown in Figures 23 and 24, the sensor 13 is configured to detect the gas concentration around each of multiple vehicles 200. In this respect, the control system 103 of this embodiment differs from the control system 101 of Embodiment 1.

[0144] More specifically, in this embodiment, the housing 70 is positioned on the surface of the column 903 provided in the cargo compartment 902, on the side facing the floor 902b. However, the position of the housing 70 is not limited to this; it may also be positioned on the surface of the wall of the cargo compartment 902, or on the floor 902b in the portion facing the bottom surface 200a of a particular vehicle 200.

[0145] The control device 30 acquires information on the gas concentration detected by the sensor 13 from the sensor 13 at predetermined control cycles T. When the gas concentration around each of the multiple vehicles 200 detected by the sensor 13 meets predetermined conditions, the control device 30 generates smoke from the actuator 20.

[0146] Even when the control system 103 is configured in this way, effects similar to those described in Embodiment 1 above can be obtained. Therefore, the control system 103 makes it possible to reduce the risk of fire using existing automatic fire alarm equipment.

[0147] Furthermore, as described above, if the control system 103 is configured to detect the gas concentration around each of the multiple vehicles 200 using the sensor 13, the effort required for installing the control system 103 can be reduced compared to the case where the gas concentration around only one vehicle 200 is detected by the sensor.

[0148] (Note) The characteristic configuration of the control system disclosed in the above-described embodiment and its modified form can be summarized as follows:

[0149] [Note 1] A sensor is placed separately from the detectors of the automatic fire alarm system in the same space where the detectors are installed. The system includes an actuator that performs a process to activate the above-mentioned detector, The above sensor detects gases indicating the possibility of ignition emitted by an item that may ignite located in the above space, before the item ignites. A control system further comprising a control device that causes the actuator to perform the above process on the condition that the concentration of the above gas detected by the above sensor exceeds a predetermined concentration.

[0150] [Note 2] The item that may ignite as described above is a battery. The above-mentioned gas is generated when the above-mentioned battery undergoes thermal runaway, as described in Appendix 1 of the control system.

[0151] [Note 3] The above battery has electrodes and an electrolyte, The control system as described in Appendix 2, wherein the gas includes at least one of the following: the gas produced by the evaporation of the electrolyte, the gas produced by the thermal decomposition of the electrolyte, and the gas produced by the reaction between the electrode and the electrolyte.

[0152] [Note 4] The control system as described in Appendix 3, wherein the above gas is at least one of the following: carbonate esters, hydrogen, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, methane, ethane, ethylene, acetylene, propane, propylene, butane, pentane, hydrogen sulfide, carbonyl sulfide, carbon disulfide, methyl sulfide, methyl disulfide, hydrogen fluoride, and hydrogen chloride.

[0153] [Note 5] The above battery is installed in the vehicle. The specific gravity of the above gas is greater than that of air. The above sensor is a control system described in any one of the appendices 2 to 4, located on the floor of the above space.

[0154] [Note 6] The above-mentioned space is the cargo compartment of the vessel transporting the above-mentioned vehicle, and is the control system described in Appendix 5.

[0155] [Note 7] The above vehicle is secured to the floor by lashing belts attached to the floor, The above sensor is attached to the lashing belt, and is part of the control system described in Appendix 5 or 6.

[0156] [Note 8] The enclosure further includes the above-mentioned sensor, The flooring is made of a magnetic metal. The control system described in Appendix 5 or 6, wherein the housing includes a magnet and is fixed to the floor by the magnet.

[0157] [Note 9] The control system described in any one of the appendices 1 to 8, wherein the sensor is one of the following: a sensor utilizing laser scattering, a sensor utilizing optical methods, a sensor utilizing infrared absorption, a photoelectric sensor, an electrochemical sensor, or a semiconductor sensor.

[0158] [Note 10] A first housing incorporating the above-mentioned sensor and a first interface for communication, and positioned near the item that may ignite, The device further comprises a second housing that incorporates the above-mentioned actuator and a second interface for communication, and is positioned in contact with or around the sensor, The control device described above is built into either the first housing or the second housing described above. If the above control device is built into the first housing, The control device, on the condition that the concentration of the gas detected by the sensor exceeds the predetermined concentration, transmits a predetermined command to the actuator via the first interface. The above operating device, upon receiving the above-predetermined command via the above-mentioned second interface, executes the above-mentioned process. If the above control device is built into the second housing, The sensor transmits information on the concentration of the gas detected by the sensor to the control device via the first interface. The control system according to any one of the appendices 1 to 9, wherein the control device receives the information via the second interface and, on the condition that the concentration of the gas indicated by the information becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined concentration, causes the actuator to perform the above process.

[0159] [Note 11] The above detector is designed to activate when it detects smoke. The above operating device is a control system according to any one of the appendices 1 to 10, which generates smoke as the above process.

[0160] [Note 12] The above-mentioned sensor detects either ultraviolet light or infrared light, and activates when the change in the intensity of that light exceeds a predetermined amount. The above operating device is a control system according to any one of the appendices 1 to 10, wherein the above-mentioned process generates one of the above-mentioned lights, thereby making the amount of change of the one of the above-mentioned lights detected by the above-mentioned sensor equal to or greater than the above-mentioned predetermined amount of change.

[0161] [Note 13] The above-mentioned sensor has a first configuration in which it operates when the internal pressure of the sensor exceeds a predetermined pressure, or a second configuration in which it operates when the ambient temperature of the sensor exceeds a predetermined temperature. If the sensor has the first configuration described above, the operating device, as part of the above process, applies external pressure to the sensor to raise the internal pressure to a predetermined level or higher. If the above-mentioned sensor has the second configuration described above, the control system according to any one of the appendices 1 to 10, wherein the operating device generates heat as the above-mentioned process to raise the ambient temperature of the sensor to or above the predetermined temperature described above.

[0162] (Other forms, etc.) In the control systems according to the embodiments and modifications of the present invention described above, the example given is that the battery electrolyte is a liquid electrolyte, but the battery electrolyte may also be composed of a solid electrolyte. That is, according to the above control system, it is possible to reduce the risk of fire in a vehicle equipped with an all-solid-state battery using existing automatic fire alarm equipment.

[0163] The shapes, configurations, sizes, numbers, materials, etc., of each part shown in the embodiments and modifications of the present invention described above can be modified in various ways, as long as they do not depart from the spirit of the present invention.

[0164] Furthermore, the characteristic configurations shown in the embodiments and modifications of the present invention described above can naturally be combined with each other without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0165] Thus, the embodiments and their variations disclosed herein are illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The technical scope of the present invention is defined by the claims and includes all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the description in the claims. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0166] 10,13 Sensors, 20,20A~20C Actuators, 21 Actuator, 22 Nichrome wire, 30,30C Control device, 40 Alarm device, 50,50A,50C Power supply, 61 First interface, 62 Second interface, 63 Third interface, 70,70A Housing, 71,71C,71D First housing, 72,72A~72C Second housing, 72a Gripping part, 101,101A,101B,102,102A~102C,103 Control system, 200 Vehicle, 200a Bottom, 201 Battery, 300 Automatic fire alarm system, 301,301A~301D Detectors, 302 Receiver, 302a Monitor, 302b Speaker, 302c Operating unit, 500 Lashing belt, 501 Straps, 600 magnets, 800 smoke, 900 car carrier, 901 bridge, 902 cargo compartment, 902a ceiling, 902b floor, 903 pillars, CR1, CR2 crew.

Claims

1. A sensor is placed in the space where the detectors of the automatic fire alarm system are installed, separately from the detectors, The system includes an actuator that performs a process to activate the aforementioned detector, The sensor detects a gas indicating an impending ignition emitted by an article that is likely to ignite located in the space, before the article is ignited. A control system further comprising a control device that causes the actuator to perform the process on the condition that the concentration of the gas detected by the sensor becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined concentration.

2. The item that may ignite is a battery. The control system according to claim 1, wherein the gas is generated by the thermal runaway of the battery.

3. The aforementioned battery has electrodes and an electrolyte, The control system according to claim 2, wherein the gas includes at least one of the following: the evaporated electrolyte, the gas produced by the thermal decomposition of the electrolyte, and the gas produced by the reaction between the electrode and the electrolyte.

4. The control system according to claim 3, wherein the gas is at least one of the following: carbonate esters, hydrogen, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, methane, ethane, ethylene, acetylene, propane, propylene, butane, pentane, hydrogen sulfide, carbonyl sulfide, carbon disulfide, methyl sulfide, methyl disulfide, hydrogen fluoride, and hydrogen chloride.

5. The aforementioned battery is installed in the vehicle, The specific gravity of the aforementioned gas is greater than that of air. The control system according to claim 2, wherein the sensor is located on the floor of the space.

6. The control system according to claim 5, wherein the space is the cargo compartment of a vessel that transports the vehicle.

7. The vehicle is secured to the floor by lashing belts attached to the floor, The control system according to claim 5, wherein the sensor is attached to the lashing belt.

8. The housing further comprises the aforementioned sensor, The floor is made of a magnetic metal, The control system according to claim 5, wherein the housing includes a magnet and is fixed to the floor by the magnet.

9. The control system according to claim 1, wherein the sensor is one of the following: a sensor utilizing laser scattering, a sensor utilizing optical methods, a sensor utilizing infrared absorption, a photoelectric sensor, an electrochemical sensor, and a semiconductor sensor.

10. A first housing incorporating the sensor and a first interface for communication, and positioned near the item that may ignite, The device further comprises a second housing that incorporates the actuator and a second communication interface, and is positioned in contact with the sensor or positioned around the sensor, The control device is housed in either the first housing or the second housing. If the control device is built into the first housing, The control device, on the condition that the concentration of the gas detected by the sensor becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined concentration, transmits a predetermined command to the actuator via the first interface. The operating device, upon receiving the predetermined command via the second interface, executes the process: If the control device is built into the second housing, The sensor transmits information on the concentration of the gas detected by the sensor to the control device via the first interface. The control system according to claim 1, wherein the control device receives the information via the second interface and, on the condition that the concentration of the gas indicated by the information becomes equal to or greater than the predetermined concentration, causes the actuator to execute the process.

11. The aforementioned detector is activated when it detects smoke. The control system according to claim 1, wherein the operating device generates smoke as the process.

12. The aforementioned sensor detects either ultraviolet light or infrared light, and activates when the change in the intensity of the aforementioned light exceeds a predetermined change. The control system according to claim 1, wherein the operating device generates one of the lights as a process, thereby making the amount of change of the one light detected by the sensor equal to or greater than the predetermined amount of change.

13. The sensor has a first configuration that activates when the internal pressure of the sensor exceeds a predetermined pressure, or a second configuration that activates when the ambient temperature of the sensor exceeds a predetermined temperature. If the sensor has the first configuration, the operating device, as part of the process, applies external pressure to the sensor to raise the internal pressure to a predetermined pressure or higher. The control system according to claim 1, wherein, if the sensor has the second configuration, the operating device generates heat as part of the process to raise the ambient temperature of the sensor to a predetermined temperature or higher.

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