Water cannon system

Abstract

We provide a water cannon system that can prevent direct hits to occupants even in automatic water discharge mode. [Solution] The water cannon system includes a fire detection means that searches a monitoring area set on a fire-protected object and acquires an image of the monitoring area; a fire source location identification means that identifies the location of the fire source from the image acquired by the fire detection means; an automatic water discharge determination means that determines whether or not the identified fire source location is included within a predetermined automatic water discharge target area; and a water discharge control command means that, if the fire source location is included within the automatic water discharge target area, initiates water discharge from the water cannon towards the fire source location.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a water cannon system.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a system that combines a scanning fire detection device and a water discharge nozzle device as a fire detection and extinguishing system for monitoring and extinguishing fires in facilities with large usage spaces such as arenas and halls. In such a fire detection and extinguishing system, a scanning fire detection device is installed at a position where the警戒区域 can be overlooked from above, and the警戒区域 is two-dimensionally scanned by optical horizontal and vertical scans. When the light reception signal of the incident light on the infrared sensor exceeds the threshold level, it is determined as a fire source. The control device obtains the coordinate position of the fire source based on the horizontal and vertical scan 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 discharge nozzle device. For example, the water discharge nozzle device includes a water discharge nozzle with a fixed pitch angle that can rotate horizontally, and the water discharge direction is set to the fire source by controlling the rotation of the water discharge nozzle. The water discharge distance is set by the water discharge pressure supplied to the water discharge nozzle.

[0003] This fire detection and extinguishing system has an automatic water discharge mode and a manual water discharge mode. The automatic water discharge mode is a mode in which, after the water discharge preparation of the water cannon is completed, water discharge is automatically started when a predetermined automatic water discharge condition is satisfied without the monitor operating the manual water discharge operation switch. On the other hand, the manual water discharge mode is a mode in which, after the water discharge preparation of the water cannon is completed, the monitor operates the manual water discharge operation switch to manually start the water discharge.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Let's consider a scenario where this fire detection and extinguishing system is installed in a facility that can accommodate spectators. In that case, if a fire breaks out in the seating area while the system is in automatic water discharge mode, water will be automatically discharged, potentially causing the water to directly hit spectators. However, in manual water discharge mode, for example, water can be started towards a location a certain distance away from the seating area, and after informing the spectators of the discharge, the water can be directed towards the fire source, thus preventing the water from directly hitting spectators.

[0006] This invention has been made in view of these circumstances, and aims to provide a water cannon system that can prevent direct hits to occupants of a building even in automatic water discharge mode. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To solve the above problems, the water cannon system according to the present invention comprises: fire detection means for exploring a monitoring area set on a fire-protected object and acquiring an image of the monitoring area; fire source location identification means for identifying the location of the fire source from the image acquired by the fire detection means; automatic water discharge determination means for determining whether the identified fire source location is included within a predetermined automatic water discharge target area; and water discharge control command means for starting water discharge from the water cannon to the fire source location if the fire source location is included within the automatic water discharge target area. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a water cannon system that can prevent direct hits to occupants of a building even in automatic water discharge mode. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [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 configuration. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows an example of the placement and protective range of water cannon 201. [Figure 4]Figure 4 shows an example of the appearance of the fire detection device 203. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows an example of the arrangement and coverage area of ​​the fire detection device 203. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows an example of the arrangement and coverage area of ​​the fire detection device 203. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows an example of the functional configuration of the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows an example of the functional configuration of the water cannon central control panel 207. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows an example of the operation sequence 900 in automatic mode. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows an example of the operation sequence 1000 in manual mode. [Figure 11] Figure 11 shows an example of the operation flow 1100 for normal exploration. [Figure 12] Figure 12 shows an example of the operation flow 1200 for fixed-point exploration. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows an example of the operation flow 1300 for exploration A. [Figure 14] Figure 14 shows an example of the operation flow 1400 for B exploration. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] 1. Embodiment 1-1. Composition This embodiment is a sprinkler system using a water-discharge type head (hereinafter referred to as the "water cannon system"). This water cannon system is a sprinkler system that combines a fire detection system for effectively detecting fires occurring in fire-protected buildings with large spaces or high ceilings, and a fire extinguishing system for effectively extinguishing fires.

[0011] This water cannon system consists of a water cannon, remote-controlled valves, fire pumps, fire detection equipment, fire detection control panel, water cannon / fire detection control panel, water cannon central control panel, water cannon field control panel, and water cannon information processing panel, etc.

[0012] When the fire detection device detects a fire, it proceeds to the task of identifying the detailed location of the fire source. Once the fire source location is determined, a water cannon for water discharge is selected and aimed. In the case of the automatic mode, a timer activates, and when the countdown ends, water discharge starts from the water cannon automatically by opening the corresponding remote control valve and starting the fire extinguishing pump.

[0013] If fine adjustment of the water discharge position is necessary, the video captured by the visible camera of the fire detection device can be confirmed and operated on the central operation panel of the water cannon to adjust the direction of the water cannon. It is also possible to directly confirm the fire source on-site and operate and adjust the local operation panel of the water cannon.

[0014] The fire protection object of this water cannon system is a structure with an opening and closing roof, which encloses a large space when closed. It is mainly used for baseball and can accommodate a large number of people.

[0015] Figure 1 shows an example of the warning range of this water cannon system. This water cannon system warns the field part 101 (the area surrounded by the thick solid line) and the spectator seats 102 (the area surrounded by the dashed line) shown in the figure.

[0016] Next, Figure 2 shows an example of the system of the water cannon system. In the protection range, a water cannon 201 and a remote control valve 202 for controlling the water discharge of the water cannon 201 are arranged. The remote control valve 202 is installed on the water supply pipe connecting the water cannon 201 and the fire extinguishing pump 211.

[0017] Also, in the protection range, a fire detection device 203, a water cannon - fire detection control panel 205 and a fire detection control panel 206 for controlling the fire detection device 203 are arranged. The fire detection device 203 is connected by a signal line to the water cannon - fire detection control panel 205 or the fire detection control panel 206 via a fire detection device relay panel 204. The water cannon - fire detection control panel 205 is connected by a signal line to the remote control valve 202.

[0018] Furthermore, a water cannon field control panel 208 for operating the water cannon 201 is located within the protected area. This water cannon field control panel 208 is connected to the water cannon 201 and the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205 by signal lines.

[0019] The pump room houses a fire pump 211 and a pump control panel 212 for controlling the fire pump 211.

[0020] The disaster prevention center houses a water cannon information processing panel 209, a water cannon central control panel 207, and a receiver 210. The water cannon information processing panel 209 is connected to the water cannon central control panel 207 and the receiver 210 by signal lines. The water cannon information processing panel 209 is also connected to the fire detection system relay panel 204, the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205, the fire detection control panel 206, and the pump control panel 212 by signal lines. The main components are described below.

[0021] The water cannon 201 is a movable, compact head designed to spray water over a wide area. Based on information from the fire detection device 203 and other sources, the water cannon 201 automatically rotates towards the fire source, and its spray angle and shape change in three stages (far, medium, and near) according to the distance to the fire source, effectively dispersing water against the fire.

[0022] Figure 3 shows an example of the placement and protective range of water cannon 201. Water cannons 201 are positioned in three locations: the first base side seating area, the third base side seating area, and near the center field backstop. Each water cannon has three spray patterns depending on the distance to the fire source: long-range 301, intermediate 302, and close-range 303.

[0023] Next, the remote-controlled valve 202 is a valve for controlling the discharge and stopping of water from the water cannon 201. When a fire occurs and the water cannon 201 is selected to discharge water, the corresponding remote-controlled valve 202 is opened by automatic or manual control, and water discharge from the water cannon 201 begins.

[0024] The fire detection device 203 is a fire detection means that searches a designated monitoring area on a fire-protected building and acquires images of it. The acquired images are transmitted via the fire detection device relay panel 204 to the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205, the fire detection control panel 206, and the water cannon information processing panel 209.

[0025] Figure 4 shows an example of the external appearance of the fire detection device 203. Figure 4(a) shows the left side, Figure 4(b) shows the front, and Figure 4(c) shows the right side. The fire detection device 203 consists of a motorized pan / tilt head 401 for horizontal rotation, a motorized pan / tilt head 402 mounted on the motorized pan / tilt head 401 for vertical rotation, and an infrared camera 403 and a visible light camera 404 attached to the rotation axis of the motorized pan / tilt head 402.

[0026] The infrared camera 403 and visible light camera 404 can be rotated and tilted using motorized pan / tilt heads 401 and 402, and can sequentially stop at 12 different monitoring positions to acquire images.

[0027] Figures 5 and 6 show examples of the arrangement and coverage range of the fire detection device 203. Figure 5 specifically shows the coverage range for the first detection mode, and Figure 6 specifically shows the coverage range for the second detection mode. The fire detection devices 203 are basically installed one per water cannon 201, specifically in three locations: the first base side seating area, the third base side seating area, and near the center field backstop. However, since this is not enough to monitor the entire area under surveillance, an additional fire detection device 203 is installed near the ceiling roof above the center field backstop (hereinafter referred to as the "large window").

[0028] At this time, the fire detection device 203 on the center side is kept in a deactivated state under normal circumstances because its coverage area is included by the fire detection devices 203 on the large window, third base side, and first base side. Furthermore, since the combination of the fire detection device 203 on the large window and the fire detection device 203 on the first base side or third base side can monitor most of the coverage area, the remaining device monitors the remaining portion through fixed-point detection. Two types of detection modes (see Table 1) are defined to perform this control, and they are switched between at regular intervals using a timer.

[0029] [Table 1]

[0030] In this context, "normal exploration" refers to an exploration method in which the fire detection device 203 stops at regular intervals to acquire thermal images and explore the entire monitoring area. Even if the fire detection device 203 has not completed a full circuit, it will notify the approximate location of the fire source when it finds one. On the other hand, fixed-point exploration is an exploration method in which the fire detection device 203 acquires thermal images at a fixed angle and conducts an exploration. The fire detection device 203 notifies the approximate location of the fire source when it finds it.

[0031] Figure 5, shown above, illustrates the monitoring range of the first detection mode. In this figure, the solid line 501 indicates the monitoring range of the fire detection device 203 on the first base side, the dashed line 502 indicates the monitoring range of the fire detection device 203 on the third base side, and the double dashed line 503 indicates the monitoring range of the fire detection device 203 at the large window. On the other hand, Figure 6, mentioned above, shows the monitoring range of the second detection mode. In this figure, the solid line 601 shows the monitoring range of the fire detection device 203 on the first base side, the dashed line 602 shows the monitoring range of the fire detection device 203 on the third base side, and the double dashed line 603 shows the monitoring range of the fire detection device 203 at the large window.

[0032] Next, I will explain the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205. The water cannon / fire detection control panel 205 controls the fire detection device 203, identifies the presence and location of a fire source from the images received from it, and sends the information to the water cannon information processing panel 209. The water cannon / fire detection control panel 205 also 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.

[0033] Figure 7 shows an example of the functional configuration of this water cannon / fire detection control panel 205. The water cannon / fire detection control panel 205 comprises 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 a processor executing a control program stored in memory.

[0034] First, the normal detection unit 701 performs a normal detection. Specifically, the normal detection unit 701 stops the infrared camera 403 at regular intervals to capture images and detect the entire monitoring area. 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 location with the fire detection temperature setting value. The fire detection temperature setting value referenced in this comparison process is a threshold value pre-set by the user.

[0035] The normal detection unit 701 also determines whether the above-mentioned highest temperature location is included in the masked area. The masked area referenced in this determination is an area pre-set by the user to be excluded from the fire detection target, and is set individually for each of the 12 monitoring locations. Therefore, the user can individually set the area to be excluded from the fire detection target for each of the 12 monitoring locations.

[0036] The normal detection unit 701 determines that there is a fire if, as a result of the above comparison and determination, the temperature at the highest temperature location exceeds the fire detection temperature setting value, and the highest temperature location is not included in the mask area corresponding to the monitoring location. Detailed information on the processing of routine surveys will be provided later.

[0037] Next, we will explain the fixed-point exploration unit 702. The fixed-point survey unit 702 performs a fixed-point survey. Specifically, the fixed-point survey unit 702 uses an infrared camera 403 to capture thermal images at a fixed angle and conduct a survey. At that time, the fixed-point survey unit 702 analyzes the images acquired by the infrared camera 403 at a predetermined monitoring position and compares the temperature at the highest temperature location with the fire detection temperature setting value. The fire detection temperature setting value referenced in this comparison process is a threshold value that is set in advance by the user.

[0038] The fixed-point detection unit 702 also determines whether the above-mentioned highest temperature location is included in the mask area. The mask area referenced in this determination is an area pre-set by the user to be excluded from the fire detection target, and is set individually for each of the 12 monitoring locations. Therefore, the user can individually set the area to be excluded from the fire detection target for each of the 12 monitoring locations.

[0039] The fixed-point detection unit 702 determines that there is a fire if, as a result of the above comparison and determination, the temperature at the highest temperature location exceeds the fire determination temperature setting value, and the highest temperature location is not included in the mask area corresponding to the monitoring location. Detailed processing of the fixed-point survey will be described later.

[0040] Next, we will explain the A exploration unit 703. The A-detection unit 703 performs an A-detection. An A-detection is performed simultaneously by three fire detection devices 203, excluding the fire detection device 203 that detected the fire, when a fire is detected during a normal detection or fixed-point detection. This A-detection differs from a normal detection in that, unlike a normal detection, no detection is performed beyond the monitoring position where the fire was detected, an A-detection is performed at least once at each monitoring position, regardless of whether a fire is detected.

[0041] Next, we will explain the B exploration unit 704. The B exploration unit 704 performs the B exploration. This B exploration involves moving the fire detection device 203, which issued the A alarm, so that the fire point is in the center of the screen captured by the infrared camera 403, and then conducting the exploration to obtain more detailed positional information.

[0042] Specifically, when the normal detection unit 701, the fixed-point detection unit 702, or the A detection unit 703 detect a fire, the B detection unit 704 controls the motorized pan / tilt heads 401 and 402 so that the highest temperature position is approximately in the center of the infrared camera 403's screen. At that time, the B detection unit 704 determines whether the elevation angle of the controlled motorized pan / tilt head 402 meets a predetermined condition. The predetermined condition considered in this determination is that the elevation angle of the motorized pan / tilt head 402 is 0° (horizontal) or less. If this condition is not met, there is a high possibility that the fire source is sunlight, and therefore the B detection unit 704 cancels the fire detection by the normal detection unit 701, etc. This prevents false fire detection.

[0043] After controlling the motorized pan / tilt heads 401 and 402, the B-surveillance unit 704 acquires multiple images, including the highest temperature location, from the infrared camera 403. The B-surveillance unit 704 then analyzes the acquired images to identify the highest temperature in each image. After identifying the highest temperature, if the identified highest temperature is equal to or greater than the forced alarm determination temperature, the B-surveillance unit 704 corrects the highest temperature to the forced alarm replacement temperature. The forced alarm determination temperature referenced in this correction process is a threshold value set in advance by the user, and in this embodiment, it is set to 400°C. On the other hand, the forced alarm replacement temperature is a correction value set in advance by the user, and in this embodiment, it is set to 1000°C. This forced alarm replacement temperature is set to a temperature higher than the forced alarm determination temperature.

[0044] When the forced alarm detection temperature is set to 400°C, the flame temperature (measured at approximately 300°C in this system) is below 400°C and is therefore not corrected to the forced alarm replacement temperature. On the other hand, the temperature of sunlight (measured at approximately 600°C in this system) is above 400°C and is therefore corrected to a fixed value of 1000°C, the forced alarm replacement temperature. As a result of this correction, false fire detection can be more reliably prevented in the process of comparing temperatures between images, as described later.

[0045] After performing the temperature correction described above, the B-detection unit 704 compares the correction values ​​between the multiple images. If the temperature difference is below a predetermined threshold as a result of this comparison, the B-detection unit 704 cancels the fire detection made by the normal detection unit 701, etc. This is because if there is little or no 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 detection when the temperature difference is below a predetermined threshold in this way, false fire detections can be prevented.

[0046] On the other hand, if the temperature difference exceeds a predetermined threshold as a result of the above comparison, the B exploration unit 704 identifies the fire source location from the image including the highest temperature location acquired from the infrared camera 403.

[0047] In summary, when the normal detection unit 701 or the like determines that there is a fire, and the predetermined conditions are met such that the elevation angle of the motorized pan / tilt head 402 is 0° (horizontal) or less, and the temperature difference between multiple images exceeds a predetermined threshold, the B exploration unit 704 identifies the location of the fire source from the image including the highest temperature location acquired from the infrared camera 403. Further details regarding the processing of B exploration will be described later.

[0048] Next, we will explain the water cannon control unit 705. The water cannon control unit 705 receives water cannon control commands transmitted from the water cannon central control panel 207 and controls the water cannon 201 so that it points towards the fire source.

[0049] Next, we will explain the fire detection control panel 206. The fire detection control panel 206 is a modified version of the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205, with the water cannon control unit 705 removed, and is installed in relation to the large-window fire detection device 203 mentioned above.

[0050] The water cannon central control panel 207 is for the overall management of the water cannon system. In the event of a fire, this water cannon central control 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 status sent from the water cannon information processing panel 209 on an LCD monitor and on the control unit. The control unit allows for the control and switching of the visible camera 404 and the water cannon 201, as well as water discharge operations.

[0051] Figure 8 shows an example of the functional configuration of the water cannon central control panel 207. The water cannon central control panel 207 comprises a water cannon control command unit 801, an automatic water discharge determination unit 802, a water discharge control command unit 803, and a notification unit 804. These functions are provided by a processor executing a control program stored in memory.

[0052] First, when the water cannon control command unit 801 receives a B alarm transmitted from the water cannon information processing panel 209 to the water cannon central control panel 207, it transmits a water cannon control command to the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205. The transmitted water cannon control command instructs the water cannon 201 to be controlled so that it points towards the fire source.

[0053] 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 referenced in this determination process is an area pre-set by the user and is the area subject to automatic water discharge. In this embodiment, the seating area is not included in this automatic water discharge target area.

[0054] The water discharge control command unit 803 automatically starts water discharge from the water cannon 201 to the fire source location identified by the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205, etc., if that location is included in the area subject to automatic water discharge.

[0055] If the location of the fire source identified by the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205, etc., is not included in the area subject to automatic water discharge, the notification unit 804 will prompt the user to manually discharge water instead of automatically discharging water (in other words, notify the user that automatic water discharge will not be performed). As described above, in this embodiment, the area targeted by automatic water discharge does not include the audience seating. Therefore, if the fire source is located in the audience seating area, automatic water discharge will not be performed, and manual water discharge will be performed instead. With manual water discharge, it is possible to prevent the water from directly hitting the audience by starting the discharge towards a location a certain distance away from the audience seating area, informing the audience of the discharge, and then directing the discharge towards the fire source.

[0056] Next, I will explain the water cannon field control panel 208. The water cannon field control panel 208 is installed in close proximity to the water cannon 201 to allow for direct operation of the water cannon 201 while monitoring the fire situation on-site. In the event of a system failure in the control system from the water cannon central control panel 207 and the water cannon information processing panel 209, manual operation from the water cannon field control panel 208 is also possible.

[0057] The water cannon information processing panel 209 collects fire source location information from the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205 and the fire detection control panel 206, determines the fire source location, receives video signals from the visible camera 404, and controls the camera. In addition, the water cannon information processing panel 209 works in conjunction with the water cannon central control panel 207 and the water cannon field control panel 208 to issue control commands, alarms, and displays to various devices.

[0058] Receiver 210 is a fire alarm receiver installed as part of an automatic fire alarm system. This receiver 210 displays and sounds alarms regarding water discharge status, automatic / manual status, system malfunctions, etc.

[0059] 1-2.Operation The water cannon system is monitored and operated via a central control panel 207 located at the disaster prevention center. In the event of a fire, it enables swift initial firefighting activities according to a predetermined operational flow. This predetermined operational flow includes fire detection through fire detection detection, which has both an automatic and a manual mode. The following describes these automatic and manual modes.

[0060] 1-2-1. Automatic Mode Figure 9 shows an example of the operation sequence 900 in automatic mode. First, the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205A continuously performs normal or fixed-point detection (step 901). Then, if a fire is detected as a result of the normal 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). Upon receiving these detection results, the water cannon information processing panel 209 notifies the water cannon central operation panel 207 of an A alarm (step 903). Upon receiving this A alarm, the water cannon central operation panel 207 displays the A alarm on the LCD monitor.

[0061] After transmitting the above detection results, the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205A performs a B detection (step 904). If the B detection detects a fire, 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 these detection results, the water cannon information processing panel 209 notifies the water cannon central control panel 207 of a B alarm (step 906). Upon receiving this B alarm, the water cannon central control panel 207 displays a fire message on the LCD monitor and TV monitor. The water cannon central control panel 207 also forwards the information to the receiver 210 via the water cannon information processing panel 209.

[0062] In addition, the water cannon central control panel 207 selects the water cannon 201 and the water discharge pattern (step 907). Then, the water cannon central control panel 207 transmits a water cannon control command to the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205A via the water cannon information processing panel 209 (step 908). When the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205A receives this water cannon control command, it controls the water cannon 201A based on this command (step 909). As a result of this control, the water cannon 201A is directed towards the fire source.

[0063] After transmitting the above water cannon control command, the water cannon central control 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 control panel 207 waits until it receives a B alarm 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 control panel 207 displays the fire compartment and the message "This is not an automatic water discharge area. Check the site and perform appropriate initial firefighting." on the LCD monitor. The water cannon central control panel 207 then does not perform steps 918 and beyond, which will be described later.

[0064] As described above, in this embodiment, the area targeted by automatic water discharge does not include the audience seating. Therefore, if the fire source is located in the audience seating area, automatic water discharge will not be performed, and manual water discharge will be performed instead. With manual water discharge, it is possible to prevent the water from directly hitting the audience by starting the discharge towards a location a certain distance away from the audience seating area, informing the audience of the discharge, and then directing the discharge towards the fire source. In addition, firefighting activities may be carried out using other fire extinguishing equipment (for example, indoor fire hydrants) instead of manual water discharge.

[0065] Furthermore, the prompt for manual water discharge from the water cannon central control panel 207 may not be limited to the display of a message, but may also be provided by voice output.

[0066] After receiving notification of 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 panels 206 (step 911). The following description will explain what happens when the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205B receives this A search start command.

[0067] When the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205B receives the A detection start command, it performs 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, which indicate the occurrence of a fire and the approximate location of the fire source (step 913). When the water cannon information processing panel 209 receives these detection results, it notifies the water cannon central operation panel 207 of an A alarm (step 914).

[0068] After transmitting the above detection results, the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205B performs a B detection (step 915). If the B 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 detailed location of the fire source (step 916). Upon receiving these detection results, the water cannon information processing panel 209 notifies the water cannon central operation panel 207 of a B alarm (step 917).

[0069] When the water cannon central control panel 207 receives this B alarm, it starts a 15-second timer countdown (step 918). When the count reaches zero, the water cannon central control panel 207 sends a pump start command to the water cannon information processing panel 209 (step 919). When the water cannon information processing panel 209 receives this pump start command, it starts the fire pump 211 (step 920).

[0070] The water cannon central control panel 207 also transmits a remote control valve open command to the water cannon information processing panel 209 (step 921). Upon receiving this remote control valve open command, the water cannon information processing panel 209 opens the remote control valve 202A for the water cannon 201A (step 922). As a result, water is discharged from the water cannon 201A towards the fire source.

[0071] Once the fire is extinguished by the water discharge and the water cannon's central control panel 207 is operated to restore power, the fire pump 211 will stop. The above is an explanation of the automatic mode.

[0072] 1-2-2. Manual Mode Figure 10 shows an example of the operation sequence 1000 in manual mode. The operation sequence in manual mode is the same as that in automatic mode from step 901 to step 917. These steps will not be explained further.

[0073] The water cannon central control panel 207 remains in standby mode after receiving the second B alarm, without starting the countdown. In this state, when a center personnel who has confirmed a fire operates the water discharge key on the water cannon central control panel 207 (step 1001), the water cannon central control panel 207 transmits a pump start command to the water cannon information processing panel 209 (step 1002). Upon receiving this pump start command, the water cannon information processing panel 209 activates the fire pump 211 (step 1003).

[0074] The water cannon central control panel 207 also transmits a remote control valve open command to the water cannon information processing panel 209 (step 1004). Upon receiving this remote control valve open command, the water cannon information processing panel 209 opens the remote control valve 202A for the water cannon 201A (step 1005). As a result, water is discharged from the water cannon 201A towards the fire source.

[0075] Another method of water discharge involves using the water cannon on-site control panel 208. In this case, center personnel rush to the scene and confirm the fire. The center personnel then operate the water cannon on-site control panel 208A to operate the water cannon 201A and acquire control. The center personnel then rotate the water cannon 201A, select a water discharge pattern, and operate the water discharge key (step 1006). Upon receiving this operation, the water cannon on-site control 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 activates the fire pump 211 (step 1008).

[0076] The water cannon's on-site control panel 208A also transmits a remote control valve open command to the water cannon's information processing panel 209 (step 1009). Upon receiving this remote control valve open command, the water cannon's information processing panel 209 opens the remote control valve 202A for the water cannon 201A (step 1010). As a result, water is discharged from the water cannon 201A towards the fire source.

[0077] Once the fire is extinguished by the water discharge and the water cannon's central control panel 207 is operated to restore power, the fire pump 211 will stop. The above is an explanation of manual mode.

[0078] 1-2-3. Routine Exploration Figure 11 shows an example of the operation flow 1100 of a normal search. The normal search shown in the figure is performed by the normal search unit 701 of the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205 or the fire detection control panel 206.

[0079] The normal detection unit 701 moves the infrared camera 403 of the fire detection device 203 to one of the 12 monitoring positions (step 1101). In addition, the normal detection unit 701 acquires mask data corresponding to the destination monitoring position (step 1102). Then, the normal detection unit 701 acquires the thermal image captured by the infrared camera 403 that has moved to the monitoring position (step 1103).

[0080] After acquiring the thermal image, the normal exploration unit 701 analyzes the acquired thermal image and extracts the pixels with the highest temperature (step 1104). In doing so, the normal exploration unit 701 extracts the pixels with the highest temperature from each of the four areas formed by dividing the thermal image into four vertical sections. However, the normal exploration unit 701 does not extract pixels from the masked areas indicated by the acquired mask data.

[0081] After extracting pixels from each area, the normal exploration unit 701 performs distance conversion on the highest temperature of each pixel (step 1105). Specifically, the normal exploration unit 701 multiplies the highest temperature of each pixel by a correction coefficient corresponding to the area. For example, the normal exploration unit 701 multiplies the highest temperature of a pixel in the first area by a correction coefficient corresponding to the first area.

[0082] After distance conversion, the normal detection unit 701 compares the calculated converted values ​​with the fire detection temperature setting value (step 1106). If, as a result of this comparison, all converted values ​​are less than or equal to the fire detection temperature setting 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, as a result of this comparison, any converted value exceeds the fire detection temperature setting value (YES in step 1106), the normal detection unit 701 then compares the number of pixels with converted values ​​exceeding the fire detection temperature setting value with the set number (step 1107).

[0083] If the result of this comparison is 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 is 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 location of the fire source (step 1108). In this case, the normal detection unit 701 calculates the approximate location of the fire source from the rotation angle and depression angle of the infrared camera 403 and the acquired image described above.

[0084] 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). The above is an explanation of routine exploration.

[0085] 1-2-4. Fixed-point survey Figure 12 shows an example of the operation flow 1200 for fixed-point detection. The fixed-point detection shown in the figure is performed by the fixed-point detection unit 702 of the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205 or the fire detection control panel 206.

[0086] The fixed-point survey 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 survey unit 702 acquires mask data corresponding to the destination monitoring position (step 1202). Then, the fixed-point survey unit 702 acquires the thermal image captured by the infrared camera 403 that has moved to the monitoring position (step 1203).

[0087] After acquiring the thermal image, the fixed-point exploration unit 702 analyzes the acquired thermal image and extracts the pixel with the highest temperature (step 1204). In doing so, the fixed-point exploration unit 702 extracts the pixel with the highest temperature from each of the four areas formed by dividing the thermal image into four vertical sections. However, the fixed-point exploration unit 702 does not extract pixels from the masked area indicated by the acquired mask data.

[0088] After extracting pixels from each area, the fixed-point exploration unit 702 performs distance conversion on the highest temperature of each pixel (step 1205). Specifically, the fixed-point exploration unit 702 multiplies the highest temperature of each pixel by a correction coefficient corresponding to the area.

[0089] After distance conversion, the fixed-point survey unit 702 compares the calculated converted values ​​with the fire detection temperature setpoint (step 1206). If, as a result of this comparison, all converted values ​​are equal to the fire detection temperature setpoint (NO in step 1206), the fixed-point survey unit 702 returns to step 1203 and acquires the next thermal image. On the other hand, if, as a result of this comparison, any of the converted values ​​exceed the fire detection temperature setpoint (YES in step 1206), the fixed-point survey unit 702 then compares the number of pixels with converted values ​​exceeding the fire detection temperature setpoint with the set number (step 1207).

[0090] If the result of this comparison is that the number of pixels is less than the set number (NO in step 1207), the fixed-point exploration unit 702 returns to step 1203 and acquires the next thermal image. On the other hand, if the result of this comparison is that the number of pixels is equal to or greater than the set number (YES in step 1207), the fixed-point exploration unit 702 calculates the approximate location of the fire source (step 1208). In this case, the fixed-point exploration unit 702 calculates the approximate location of the fire source from the rotation angle and depression angle of the infrared camera 403 and the acquired image above.

[0091] After calculating the approximate location of the fire source, the fixed-point survey unit 702 notifies the water cannon information processing panel 209 of the survey results indicating the occurrence of a fire and the approximate location of the fire source (step 1209). The above is an explanation of fixed-point surveys.

[0092] 1-2-5.A Exploration Figure 13 shows an example of the operation flow 1300 of A-type detection. The A-type detection shown in the figure is performed by the A-type detection unit 703 of the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205 or the fire detection control panel 206.

[0093] Although the entity executing the processing differs, the processing itself is the same as that of the normal exploration, sharing steps 1101-1109. Since these steps have already been explained, we will omit their explanation here.

[0094] Unlike routine surveys, Survey A involves conducting a survey at least once at every monitoring location, regardless of whether a fire is detected. Therefore, Survey A includes steps 1301 and 1302.

[0095] In step 1301, the A exploration unit 703 determines whether the infrared camera 403 has completed a full circuit of the monitoring positions. If the result of this determination is that the infrared camera 403 has not completed a full circuit of the monitoring positions (NO in step 1301), the A exploration 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 full circuit of the monitoring positions (YES in step 1301), the A exploration unit 703 then determines whether or not a potential ignition source exists (step 1302).

[0096] Specifically, the A-search unit 703 determines whether a "YES" determination was made in step 1107 during the process of the infrared camera 403 completing a full circuit of the monitoring positions. If the result of this determination is not "YES" (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 "YES" (YES in step 1302), the A-search unit 703 calculates the approximate location of the fire source (step 1108). In this case, the A-search unit 703 calculates the approximate location of the fire source from the rotation angle and depression angle of the infrared camera 403 and the acquired image described above.

[0097] 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 a fire and the approximate location of the fire source (step 1109). The above is an explanation of Exploration A.

[0098] 1-2-6.B Exploration Figure 14 shows an example of the operation flow 1400 of B detection. The B detection shown in the figure is performed by the B detection unit 704 of the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205 or the fire detection control panel 206.

[0099] The B exploration unit 704 calculates the movement angle (rotation angle and depression angle) of the infrared camera 403 so that the fire source is approximately at the center of the screen, based on the approximate location of the fire source obtained by normal exploration, fixed-point exploration, or A exploration (step 1401). After calculating the movement angle, the B exploration 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 above 0 degrees (NO in step 1402), the B exploration unit 704 terminates the B exploration because there is a high possibility that the fire source is sunlight. This prevents false detection of fire. On the other hand, if the calculated depression angle is 0° (horizontal) or less (YES in step 1402), the B exploration unit 704 moves the infrared camera 403 so that the fire source is approximately at the center of the screen (step 1403).

[0100] After moving the infrared camera 403, the B-surveillance unit 704 acquires multiple thermal images captured by the infrared camera 403 (step 1404). After acquiring the thermal images, the B-surveillance unit 704 analyzes the acquired thermal images and extracts the pixel with the highest temperature in each thermal image (step 1405). Then, the B-surveillance unit 704 performs distance conversion on the highest temperature of each extracted pixel (step 1406). Specifically, the B-surveillance unit 704 calculates a correction value by applying the highest temperature of each pixel to a predetermined correction formula. However, in this case, if the highest temperature is above the forced alarm determination temperature (400°C), the B-surveillance unit 704 replaces it with the forced alarm replacement temperature (1000°C) instead of applying it to the above correction formula. As a result of this correction, false fire detection can be prevented more reliably in step 1408, which will be described later.

[0101] After distance conversion, the B exploration unit 704 counts the number of pixels in each thermal image whose correction value exceeds the set fire detection temperature (step 1407). If the number of pixels counted in all thermal images is less than the set number (NO in step 1407), the B exploration unit 704 terminates the B exploration. On the other hand, if the number of pixels counted in any of the thermal images is equal to or greater than the set number (YES in step 1407), the B exploration unit 704 then compares the correction values ​​of the highest temperatures among the multiple thermal images (step 1408).

[0102] As a result of this comparison, if the difference between the maximum and minimum values ​​of the correction is less than or equal to a predetermined threshold (NO in step 1408), the B-surveillance unit 704 terminates the B-surveillance. This is because if there is little or no 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 detection when the temperature difference is less than or equal to a predetermined threshold in this way, false fire detections can be prevented. After the B exploration is completed, the A exploration will be performed again.

[0103] On the other hand, if the difference between the maximum and minimum values ​​of the correction is found to exceed a predetermined threshold (YES in step 1408), the B exploration unit 704 calculates the detailed location of the fire source (step 1409). In this case, the B exploration unit 704 calculates the detailed location of the fire source from the rotation angle and depression angle of the infrared camera 403 and the acquired image described above.

[0104] 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 a fire and the detailed location of the fire source (step 1410). The above is an explanation of B exploration.

[0105] 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 the building subject to fire protection. However, the building subject to fire protection is not limited to a baseball stadium, and may be any other facility capable of accommodating spectators.

[0106] (2) The above-mentioned routine and A-type surveys assume 12 monitoring locations, but the number of monitoring locations may be changed as appropriate depending on the fire-protected building and the number of fire detection devices 203 to be installed.

[0107] (3) In the above-mentioned B detection, if the condition that the elevation angle of the motorized pan / tilt head 402 is 0° (horizontal) or less is not met, the fire determination made by the normal detection unit 701, etc. is canceled. However, this condition is merely an example, and the threshold for the elevation angle may be changed as appropriate depending on the fire-protected object.

[0108] (4) In the above B exploration, 400°C is assumed as the forced alarm determination temperature and 1000°C as the forced alarm replacement temperature. 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.

[0109] (5) In the above-mentioned B exploration, the correction values ​​of the highest temperature are compared among multiple thermal images, and if the difference between the maximum and minimum correction values ​​is less than or equal to a predetermined threshold, the fire determination by the normal exploration unit 701, etc. is canceled. Alternatively, the fire determination by the normal exploration unit 701, etc. may be canceled if the correction values ​​of the highest temperature are the same among multiple thermal images. In other words, the fire determination by the normal exploration unit 701, etc. may be canceled if the difference in correction values ​​among multiple thermal images is zero or less.

[0110] (6) In the above embodiment, the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205 is equipped with the functions shown in Figure 7, and the water cannon central control panel 207 is equipped with the functions shown in Figure 8. However, this functional arrangement is merely an example, and some or all of the functions provided by the water cannon / fire detection control panel 205 and the water cannon central control panel 207 may be distributed to other equipment.

[0111] It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are included. For example, the embodiments described above are described in detail to make the present invention easier to understand, and are not necessarily limited to those having all the configurations described. Furthermore, it is possible to replace parts of the configuration of one embodiment with the configuration of another embodiment, and it is also possible to add configurations from other embodiments to the configuration of one embodiment. In addition, it is possible to add, delete, or replace parts of the configuration of each embodiment with other configurations.

[0112] Furthermore, each of the above configurations, functions, processing units, and processing means may be implemented in hardware, either partially or entirely, by designing them as integrated circuits, for example. Alternatively, each of the above configurations and functions may be implemented in software by having the processor interpret and execute programs that implement each function. Information such as programs, tables, and files that implement each function can be stored in 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.

[0113] Furthermore, the control lines and information lines shown are those deemed necessary for explanatory purposes, and not all control lines and information lines are necessarily shown in the actual product. In reality, it is safe to assume that almost all components are interconnected. Furthermore, the above-described embodiments disclose at least the configuration described in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0114] 101...Field area, 102...Spectator seating, 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 control panel, 208...Water cannon local control panel, 209...Water cannon information processing panel, 210...Receiver, 211...Fire pump, 212...Pump control panel, 401, 402...Motorized pan / tilt head, 403...Infrared camera, 404...Visible light camera, 701...Normal exploration unit, 702...Fixed-point exploration unit, 703...A exploration unit, 704...B exploration unit, 705...Water cannon control unit, 801...Water cannon control command unit, 802...Automatic water discharge determination unit, 803...Water discharge control command unit, 804...Notification unit

Claims

1. A fire detection means that searches a monitoring area set on a fire-protected building and acquires an image of the monitoring area, A fire source location identification means that identifies the location of the fire source from an image acquired by the aforementioned fire detection means, An automatic water discharge determination means for determining whether the identified fire source location is included within a predetermined automatic water discharge target area, A water discharge control command means that initiates water discharge from a water cannon to the fire source location when the fire source location is included within the automatic water discharge target area. A water cannon system equipped with a water cannon.

2. The water cannon system according to claim 1, further comprising a notification means for notifying the user that water will not be automatically discharged if the location of the fire source is not included within the area to be automatically discharged.

3. The aforementioned fire-protected building is a facility capable of accommodating spectators, The aforementioned area subject to automatic water discharge does not include seating areas. A water cannon system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that

4. The fire detection means includes an infrared camera mounted on an electric pan / tilt head so as to be able to rotate and tilt, and the infrared camera is equipped with an infrared camera that sequentially stops at multiple monitoring positions to acquire images. A mask region is set for each of the aforementioned multiple monitoring locations. The system further includes a fire determination means that analyzes an image acquired at a first monitoring position by the infrared camera and determines that a fire has occurred if the temperature at the highest temperature location exceeds a predetermined threshold and the highest temperature location is not included in the mask region corresponding to the first monitoring position. The fire source location identification means identifies the fire source location from an image acquired by the fire detection means, which includes the highest temperature location, when the fire determination means determines that there is a fire. A water cannon system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that

5. The system further includes a pan / tilt head control means that controls the motorized pan / tilt head so that the highest temperature position is approximately at the center of the infrared camera screen when the fire detection means determines that a fire has occurred, When the elevation angle of the controlled motorized pan / tilt head satisfies predetermined conditions, the fire source location identification means identifies the fire source location from the image including the highest temperature location. The water cannon system according to claim 4, characterized in that

6. The water cannon system according to claim 5, characterized in that the fire source location identification means identifies the fire source location from an image including the highest temperature location when the elevation angle of the controlled motorized pan / tilt head is horizontal or lower.

7. The system further includes a temperature correction means that corrects the temperature indicated by the image including the highest temperature location to a predetermined temperature higher than the predetermined threshold if the temperature indicated is above a predetermined threshold. The fire source location identification means compares the corrected temperature across multiple images and identifies the fire source location from the image containing the highest temperature location if the temperature difference exceeds a predetermined threshold. The water cannon system according to claim 5, characterized in that

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