Radio

Abstract

To preferentially transmit an abnormality signal with higher importance in a radio.SOLUTION: A fire alarm comprises: a detection unit which detects an abnormality; and a signal processing unit which executes carrier sense at the number of times corresponding to the abnormality detected by the detection unit and transmits a signal for notification of the abnormality after execution of the carrier sense. The signal processing unit starts the carrier sense at the number of times corresponding to a first abnormality, and when the detection unit detects a second abnormality with higher priority than that of the first abnormality during the execution of the carrier sense, transmits a signal for notification of the second abnormality instead of the first abnormality, or with the first abnormality. Moreover, the number of times of the carrier sense corresponding to the first abnormality is more than the number of times corresponding to second carrier sense.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a wireless device.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a home fire alarm system in which a plurality of fire alarms operate in conjunction to give a fire alarm has been known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). According to this fire alarm system, it is possible to notify a person in a room different from the room where a fire has occurred of the occurrence of the fire.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In an alarm system such as the fire alarm system exemplified here, various signals can be transmitted and received between the alarms. For example, each alarm can be provided with a fire detection unit and a gas leak detection unit, and a fire detection signal and a gas leak detection signal can be transmitted and received between the alarms.

[0005] When it is possible to transmit and receive a plurality of types of abnormal signals in this way, there is a need to assign a priority to the transmission of each abnormal signal. For example, there is a need to prioritize the transmission of a fire detection signal over a gas leak detection signal.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and an object thereof is to preferentially transmit an abnormal signal of higher importance in a wireless device.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] To solve the above problems, the wireless device according to the present invention comprises a detection unit for detecting abnormalities, and a signal processing unit that performs carrier sensing a number of times or for a duration corresponding to the abnormality detected by the detection unit, and transmits a signal to notify the abnormality after the execution of said carrier sensing. The signal processing unit starts carrier sensing a number of times or for a duration corresponding to a first abnormality, and if the detection unit detects a second abnormality having a higher priority than the first abnormality during the execution of said carrier sensing, it transmits a signal to notify the second abnormality in place of the first abnormality, or together with the first abnormality, and the value indicating the number of times or duration of carrier sensing corresponding to the first abnormality is greater than the value indicating the number of times or for a duration corresponding to carrier sensing corresponding to the second abnormality. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, a wireless device can prioritize the transmission of abnormal signals of higher importance. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Diagram showing a fire alarm system 100 installed in house H. [Figure 2] Block diagram showing the hardware configuration of fire alarm 1 [Figure 3] Sequence diagram showing fire-related procedures [Figure 4] Sequence diagram showing fire recovery procedures [Figure 5] Sequence diagram showing gas leak interlocking process [Figure 6] Sequence diagram showing gas leak recovery process [Figure 7] Flowchart showing the signal transmission process [Figure 8] A time chart showing a specific example of signal transmission processing. [Figure 9] Flowchart showing the fire alarm signal transmission process. [Figure 10] Flowchart showing the gas leak-related signal transmission process. [Figure 11]Time chart showing specific examples of fire-linked signal transmission processing and gas leak-linked signal transmission processing

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] 1. Embodiment A fire alarm system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described. The fire alarm system 100 described here is a residential fire alarm system in which a plurality of fire alarms operate in conjunction to give a fire alarm. 1-1. Configuration

[0011] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a fire alarm system 100 installed in a house H. As shown in the figure, the fire alarm system 100 includes a fire alarm 1A which is a master unit and a plurality of fire alarms 1B which are slave units. In the following description, the fire alarm 1A which is the master unit is referred to as "master unit 1A", and the fire alarm 1B which is the slave unit is referred to as "slave unit 1B". Also, the master unit 1A and the slave unit 1B are collectively referred to as "fire alarm 1".

[0012] The fire alarm 1 is a wireless device and is an interlocking type fire alarm. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of this fire alarm 1. As shown in the figure, the fire alarm 1 includes a fire detection unit 11, a gas leak detection unit 12, an alarm unit 13, a wireless communication unit 14, an operation reception unit 15, a power supply unit 16, and a control unit 17.

[0013] Among these, the fire detection unit 11 is a means for detecting a fire. This fire detection unit 11 includes sensors for detecting smoke, heat, etc. in order to detect a fire.

[0014] The gas leak detection unit 12 is a means for detecting a gas leak. This gas leak detection unit 12 includes a gas sensor in order to detect a gas leak.

[0015] The alarm unit 13 is a means for issuing an alarm to the user. This alarm unit 13 includes a speaker and an indicator lamp in order to issue an alarm to the user.

[0016] The wireless communication unit 14 is a means for wireless communication with other fire alarms 1. This wireless communication unit 14 includes an antenna and a wireless communication circuit for wireless communication with other fire alarms 1.

[0017] The operation reception unit 15 is a means for receiving the user's operation. This operation reception unit 15 includes a switch for receiving the user's operation.

[0018] The power supply unit 16 is a means for supplying power to each part of the fire alarm 1. This power supply unit 16 includes a battery and a power supply circuit for supplying power to each part of the fire alarm 1.

[0019] The control unit 17 is a means for controlling each part of the fire alarm 1. This control unit 17 includes a memory and a microcomputer for controlling each part of the fire alarm 1. Based on various setting data stored in the memory, by executing a program incorporated in the microcomputer, various functions are realized in the fire alarm 1. Hereinafter, the functions realized in the master device 1A and the functions realized in the slave device 1B will be described in order.

[0020] First, the functions realized in the master device 1A will be described. In the master device 1A, functions such as a fire interlock processing unit 161, a gas leak interlock processing unit 162, a recovery processing unit 163, and a signal processing unit 164 are realized.

[0021] The fire interlock processing unit 161 detects a fire based on the output of the fire detection unit 11 of its own device. When a fire is detected, it activates the alarm unit 13 to output an alarm sound and turn on the indicator light. In addition, it instructs the signal processing unit 164 to transmit a fire interlock signal to each slave device 1B.

[0022] Also, the fire interlock processing unit 161 receives a fire interlock signal transmitted from the slave device 1B and detects a fire. When a fire is detected, it activates the alarm unit 13 to output an alarm sound and turn on the indicator light. In addition, it instructs the signal processing unit 164 to transmit a fire interlock signal to each slave device 1B. This fire interlock processing unit 161 is an example of a detection unit according to the present invention.

[0023] The gas leak interlocking processing unit 162 detects a gas leak based on the output of the unit's gas leak detection unit 12. When a gas leak is detected, it activates the alarm unit 13, emits an alarm sound, and illuminates an indicator light. In addition, it instructs the signal processing unit 164 to transmit a gas leak interlocking signal to each slave unit 1B.

[0024] Furthermore, the gas leak interlocking processing unit 162 receives a gas leak interlocking signal transmitted from the slave unit 1B and detects a gas leak. When a gas leak is detected, it activates the alarm unit 13, outputs an alarm sound, and illuminates an indicator light. In addition, it instructs the signal processing unit 164 to transmit a gas leak interlocking signal to each slave unit 1B. This gas leak interlocking processing unit 162 is an example of a detection unit according to the present invention.

[0025] The recovery processing unit 163 detects the receipt of a fire recovery notification transmitted from the slave unit 1B, and if the unit's fire detection unit 11 does not detect a fire, it stops the operation of the unit's alarm unit 13. In addition, the recovery processing unit 163 instructs the signal processing unit 164 to transmit a fire recovery interlocking signal to each slave unit 1B.

[0026] Furthermore, the recovery processing unit 163 detects the receipt of a gas leak recovery notification transmitted from the slave unit 1B, and if the unit's gas leak detection unit 12 does not detect a gas leak, it stops the operation of the unit's alarm unit 13. In addition, the recovery processing unit 163 instructs the signal processing unit 164 to transmit a gas leak recovery interlocking signal to each slave unit 1B.

[0027] The signal processing unit 164 transmits an interlocking signal upon receiving instructions from the fire interlocking processing unit 161, the gas leak interlocking processing unit 162, or the recovery processing unit 163.

[0028] The signal processing unit 164, in particular, when transmitting an interlock signal in response to instructions from the fire interlock processing unit 161 or the gas leak interlock processing unit 162, identifies the number of carrier sense operations corresponding to the detected anomaly. Specifically, when transmitting a fire interlock signal, it identifies the number "3," and when transmitting a gas leak interlock signal, it identifies the number "6." After performing the identified number of carrier sense operations, it transmits an interlock signal notifying of the detected anomaly.

[0029] In this case, if another anomaly is detected while carrier sensing is in progress, the signal processing unit 164 sends an interlocking signal that notifies both the initially detected anomaly and the newly detected anomaly. For example, if carrier sensing is started after a gas leak is detected, and a fire is detected while carrier sensing is in progress, an interlocking signal is sent that notifies both the gas leak and the fire. By notifying both anomalies simultaneously in this way, the anomaly detected later can be notified at an early stage.

[0030] Furthermore, as the number of carrier sense counts determined by the signal processing unit 164 increases, the total time required for carrier sensing also increases. Therefore, determining the number of carrier sense counts can be rephrased as determining the carrier sense time. This also applies to the number of carrier sense counts determined by the signal processing unit 168, which will be described later.

[0031] Next, the functions implemented in the sub-unit 1B will be described. The sub-unit 1B implements the following functions: fire interlock processing unit 165, gas leak interlock processing unit 166, recovery processing unit 167, and signal processing unit 168.

[0032] The fire interlocking processing unit 165 detects a fire based on the output of its own fire detection unit 11. Upon detecting a fire, it activates the alarm unit 13, emits an alarm sound, and illuminates an indicator light. In addition, it instructs the signal processing unit 168 to transmit a fire interlocking signal to the master unit 1A and the other slave units 1B.

[0033] Furthermore, the fire interlocking processing unit 165 detects a fire by receiving a fire interlocking signal transmitted from the master unit 1A or other slave unit 1B. When a fire is detected, it activates the alarm unit 13, outputs an alarm sound, and illuminates an indicator light. This fire interlock processing unit 165 is an example of a detection unit according to the present invention.

[0034] The gas leak interlocking processing unit 166 detects a gas leak based on the output of the unit's gas leak detection unit 12. When a gas leak is detected, it activates the alarm unit 13, which emits an alarm sound and illuminates an indicator light. In addition, it instructs the signal processing unit 168 to transmit a gas leak interlocking signal to the master unit 1A and the other slave units 1B.

[0035] Furthermore, the gas leak interlocking processing unit 166 receives a gas leak interlocking signal transmitted from the master unit 1A or other slave unit 1B and detects a gas leak. When a gas leak is detected, the alarm unit 13 is activated, outputting an alarm sound and illuminating an indicator light. This gas leak interlocking processing unit 166 is an example of a detection unit according to the present invention.

[0036] When the recovery processing unit 167 detects that the fire has been extinguished in its monitoring area and the fire detection unit 11 of its unit no longer detects a fire, it instructs the signal processing unit 168 to send a fire recovery notification to the master unit 1A. After sending this fire recovery notification, when it detects the receipt of a fire recovery interlocking signal sent from the master unit 1A, it stops the operation of the alarm unit 13.

[0037] Furthermore, when the gas leak in the unit's monitoring area stops and the unit's gas leak detection unit 12 stops detecting a gas leak, the recovery processing unit 167 instructs the signal processing unit 168 to send a gas leak recovery notification to the master unit 1A. After sending this gas leak recovery notification, when the unit detects the receipt of a gas leak recovery interlock signal sent from the master unit 1A, it stops the operation of the alarm unit 13.

[0038] The signal processing unit 168 receives instructions from the fire interlock processing unit 165, the gas leak interlock processing unit 166, or the recovery processing unit 167 and transmits interlock signals, etc.

[0039] The signal processing unit 168, in particular, when transmitting an interlock signal in response to instructions from the fire interlock processing unit 165 or the gas leak interlock processing unit 166, identifies the number of carrier sense operations corresponding to the detected anomaly. Specifically, when transmitting a fire interlock signal, it identifies the number "3," and when transmitting a gas leak interlock signal, it identifies the number "6." After performing the identified number of carrier sense operations, it transmits an interlock signal notifying of the detected anomaly.

[0040] In this case, if another anomaly is detected while carrier sensing is in progress, the signal processing unit 168 sends an interlocking signal that notifies both the initially detected anomaly and the newly detected anomaly. For example, if carrier sensing is started after a gas leak is detected, and a fire is detected while carrier sensing is in progress, an interlocking signal is sent that notifies both the gas leak and the fire. By notifying both anomalies simultaneously in this way, the anomaly detected later can be notified at an earlier stage.

[0041] 1-2.Operation The operation of the fire alarm system 100 will be described. Specifically, the fire interlocking process, fire recovery process, gas leak interlocking process, gas leak recovery process, and signal transmission process will be described.

[0042] 1-2-1. Fire Interlocking Procedures The fire interlocking process is a process in which multiple fire alarms 1 synchronize to sound a fire alarm when a fire occurs in house H. Figure 3 is a sequence diagram showing this fire interlocking process.

[0043] In the fire interlock process shown in the figure, when a fire occurs in the monitoring area of ​​the slave unit 1B, the fire detection unit 11 of the slave unit 1B detects the fire (step Sa1). After detecting the fire, the fire interlock processing unit 165 of the slave unit 1B activates the alarm unit 13, outputs an alarm sound, and illuminates an indicator light (step Sa2). This notifies occupants of the fire. The fire interlock processing unit 165 also instructs the signal processing unit 164 to transmit a fire interlock signal to the master unit 1A and each slave unit 1B. Upon receiving this instruction, the signal processing unit 164 transmits a fire interlock signal to the master unit 1A and each slave unit 1B (step Sa3).

[0044] When another slave unit 1B receives this fire interlock signal, the fire interlock processing unit 165 of that slave unit 1B activates the alarm unit 13, outputs an alarm sound, and illuminates an indicator light (step Sa4). This notifies the occupants of the fire.

[0045] When the master unit 1A receives the fire interlock signal described above, the fire interlock processing unit 161 of the master unit 1A activates the alarm unit 13, outputs an alarm sound, and illuminates the indicator light (step Sa5). This notifies the occupants of the fire. In addition, the fire interlock processing unit 161 instructs the signal processing unit 164 to transmit a fire interlock signal to each slave unit 1B. Upon receiving this instruction, the signal processing unit 164 transmits a fire interlock signal to each slave unit 1B (step Sa6). This makes the interlocking of each slave unit 1B more reliable.

[0046] When the slave unit 1B receives a fire alarm signal transmitted from the master unit 1A, if it has not received a fire alarm signal from the source of the fire (slave unit 1B), it activates the alarm unit 13, outputs an alarm sound, and illuminates an indicator light. This notifies occupants of the fire. The above is an explanation of the fire alarm system.

[0047] According to the fire alarm system described above, it is possible to notify people in rooms other than the one where the fire occurred.

[0048] The above explanation of the fire-related process assumes that a fire occurs in the monitoring area of ​​slave unit 1B. If, contrary to this assumption, a fire occurs in the monitoring area of ​​master unit 1A, master unit 1A will execute steps Sa1 to Sa3 described above.

[0049] 1-2-2. Fire Restoration Procedures The fire recovery process is the process of stopping the fire alarm that was started by the fire alarm interlocking process. Figure 4 is a sequence diagram showing this fire recovery process.

[0050] In the fire recovery process shown in the figure, when the fire is extinguished in the monitoring area of ​​the slave unit 1B and the fire detection unit 11 of the slave unit 1B no longer detects a fire (step Sb1), the recovery processing unit 167 of the slave unit 1B instructs the signal processing unit 168 to send a fire recovery notification to the master unit 1A. Upon receiving this instruction, the signal processing unit 168 sends a fire recovery notification to the master unit 1A (step Sb2).

[0051] The recovery processing unit 163 of the master unit 1A receives fire recovery notifications from all slave units 1B that have detected a fire, and if the fire detection unit 11 of the unit itself does not detect a fire (step Sb3), it controls the alarm unit 13 to output an alarm sound and illuminate an indicator light in order to notify occupants of the recovery. After that, it stops the operation of the alarm unit 13 of the unit itself (step Sb4). In addition, the recovery processing unit 163 instructs the signal processing unit 164 to send a fire recovery interlock signal to each slave unit 1B. Upon receiving this instruction, the signal processing unit 164 sends a fire recovery interlock signal to each slave unit 1B (step Sb5).

[0052] When the sub-unit 1B receives this fire recovery interlock signal, the recovery processing unit 167 of the sub-unit 1B controls the alarm unit 13 to output an alarm sound and illuminate an indicator light in order to notify the occupants of the recovery. After that, it stops the operation of the alarm unit 13 (step Sb6). The above is an explanation of the fire recovery process.

[0053] According to the fire recovery procedure described above, all fire alarms in all fire alarms 1 will be deactivated, provided that no fire is detected by any of the fire alarms 1.

[0054] 1-2-3. Gas leak linked processing The gas leak interlocking process is a process in which multiple fire alarms 1 synchronize to sound a gas leak alarm when a gas leak occurs in house H. Figure 5 is a sequence diagram showing this gas leak interlocking process.

[0055] In the gas leak interlocking process shown in the figure, when a gas leak occurs in the monitoring area of ​​the slave unit 1B, the gas leak detection unit 12 of the slave unit 1B detects the gas leak (step Sc1). After detecting the gas leak, the gas leak interlocking processing unit 166 of the slave unit 1B activates the alarm unit 13, outputs an alarm sound, and illuminates an indicator light (step Sc2). This notifies the occupants of the gas leak. The gas leak interlocking processing unit 166 also instructs the signal processing unit 168 to transmit a gas leak interlocking signal to the master unit 1A and each slave unit 1B. Upon receiving this instruction, the signal processing unit 168 transmits the gas leak interlocking signal to the master unit 1A and each slave unit 1B (step Sc3).

[0056] When another slave unit 1B receives this gas leak interlock signal, the gas leak interlock processing unit 166 of that slave unit 1B activates the alarm unit 13, outputs an alarm sound, and illuminates an indicator light (step Sc4). This notifies the occupants of the gas leak.

[0057] When the master unit 1A receives the gas leak interlock signal described above, the gas leak interlock processing unit 162 of the master unit 1A activates the alarm unit 13, outputs an alarm sound, and illuminates the indicator light (step Sc5). This notifies the occupants of the gas leak. In addition, the gas leak interlock processing unit 162 instructs the signal processing unit 164 to transmit a gas leak interlock signal to each slave unit 1B. Upon receiving this instruction, the signal processing unit 164 transmits a gas leak interlock signal to each slave unit 1B (step Sc6). This further ensures the interlocking of each slave unit 1B.

[0058] When a slave unit 1B receives a gas leak interlock signal transmitted from the master unit 1A, and does not receive a gas leak interlock signal from any other slave unit 1B, it activates the alarm unit 13, emits an alarm sound, and illuminates an indicator light. This notifies the occupants of the gas leak. The above is an explanation of the gas leak response system.

[0059] According to the gas leak notification system described above, it is possible to notify people in rooms other than the one where the gas leak occurred.

[0060] The above explanation of the gas leak interlocking process assumes that a gas leak occurs in the monitoring area of ​​slave unit 1B. If, contrary to this assumption, a gas leak occurs in the monitoring area of ​​master unit 1A, master unit 1A will execute steps Sc1 to Sc3 above.

[0061] 1-2-4. Gas leak repair procedures The gas leak recovery process is the process of stopping the gas leak alarm that was started by the gas leak interlocking process. Figure 6 is a sequence diagram showing this gas leak recovery process.

[0062] In the gas leak recovery process shown in the figure, when the gas leak stops in the monitoring area of ​​the slave unit 1B and the gas leak detection unit 12 of the slave unit 1B no longer detects a gas leak (step Sd1), the recovery processing unit 167 of the slave unit 1B instructs the signal processing unit 168 to send a gas leak recovery notification to the master unit 1A. Upon receiving this instruction, the signal processing unit 168 sends a gas leak recovery notification to the master unit 1A (step Sd2).

[0063] The recovery processing unit 163 of the master unit 1A receives gas leak recovery notifications from all slave units 1B that have detected a gas leak, and if the unit's own gas leak detection unit 12 does not detect a gas leak (step Sd3), it controls the alarm unit 13 to output an alarm sound and illuminate an indicator light in order to notify occupants of the recovery. After that, it stops the operation of the unit's own alarm unit 13 (step Sd4). In addition, the recovery processing unit 163 instructs the signal processing unit 164 to send a gas leak recovery interlock signal to each slave unit 1B. Upon receiving this instruction, the signal processing unit 164 sends a gas leak recovery interlock signal to each slave unit 1B (step Sd5).

[0064] When the slave unit 1B receives this gas leak recovery interlock signal, the recovery processing unit 167 of the slave unit 1B controls the alarm unit 13 to output an alarm sound and illuminate an indicator light in order to notify the occupants of the recovery. After that, it stops the operation of the alarm unit 13 (step Sd6). The above is an explanation of the gas leak repair process.

[0065] According to the gas leak recovery procedure described above, the gas leak alarms of all fire alarms 1 will be deactivated, provided that no gas leaks are detected in any of the fire alarms 1.

[0066] 1-2-5. Signal Transmission Processing The signal transmission process is the process by which fire alarm 1 transmits a fire alarm signal or a gas leak signal to other fire alarms 1. Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating this signal transmission process. The following explanation will refer to Figure 7 to describe the case in which master unit 1A transmits a fire alarm signal or a gas leak signal to slave unit 1B.

[0067] In the signal transmission process shown in the figure, the signal processing unit 164 of the master unit 1A first identifies the number of carrier senses Nt corresponding to the type of interlocking signal to be transmitted (step Se1). Specifically, when transmitting a fire interlocking signal, it identifies the number "3", and when transmitting a gas leak interlocking signal, it identifies the number "6". Next, the signal processing unit 164 initializes the count value n (step Se2). Next, the signal processing unit 164 performs carrier sensing (step Se3) and determines whether the level of the detected received signal is below a predetermined threshold (step Se4). If the result of this determination is that the level of the detected received signal is greater than the predetermined threshold (NO in step Se4), the signal processing unit 164 waits for a predetermined time (NO in step Se5). After the predetermined time has elapsed (YES in step Se5), it returns to step Se2. On the other hand, if the result of the determination in step Se4 is that the level of the detected received signal is below a predetermined threshold (YES in step Se4), the signal processing unit 164 increments the count value n (step Se6). Then, it is determined whether the incremented count value n is greater than or equal to the carrier sense count Nt identified in step Se1 (step Se7). If the result of this determination is that the incremented count value n is less than the carrier sense count Nt (NO in step Se7), the signal processing unit 164 returns to step Se3. On the other hand, if the result of this determination is that the incremented count value n is greater than or equal to the carrier sense count Nt (YES in step Se7), the signal processing unit 164 determines whether another abnormality has been newly detected (step Se8). Specifically, if it is attempting to transmit a fire interlock signal, it determines whether a gas leak has been detected, and if it is attempting to transmit a gas leak interlock signal, it determines whether a fire has been detected. If the result of this determination is that no other abnormality has been newly detected (NO in step Se8), the signal processing unit 164 transmits an interlock signal to the slave unit 1B notifying the original abnormality (step Se9). On the other hand, if this determination results in the detection of another abnormality (YES in step Se8), the signal processing unit 164 sends an interlocking signal to the slave unit 1B to notify it of the newly detected abnormality in addition to the abnormality that was initially the target of notification (step Se10). The above is an explanation of the signal transmission process.

[0068] Next, we will explain a specific example of the signal transmission process described above. Figure 8 is a time chart showing a specific example of the signal transmission process.

[0069] Figure 8(a) shows the transmission process for the fire alarm signal. In this transmission process, the signal processing unit 164 performs carrier sense C three times after fire detection, and then transmits the fire alarm signal.

[0070] Figure 8(b) shows the transmission process for fire and gas leak interlocking signals. In this transmission process, the signal processing unit 164 starts carrier sense C after fire detection, and upon detection of a gas leak during carrier sense C, transmits an interlocking signal that notifies of both fire and gas leak.

[0071] Figure 8(c) shows the transmission process for fire and gas leak signals. In this transmission process, the signal processing unit 164 starts carrier sense C after fire detection, and upon detection of a gas leak after carrier sense C, it first transmits a fire signal, then performs carrier sense C six times, and finally transmits a gas leak signal.

[0072] Figure 8(d) shows the transmission process for the gas leak interlock signal. In this transmission process, the signal processing unit 164 performs carrier sense C six times after detecting a gas leak, and then transmits the gas leak interlock signal.

[0073] Figure 8(e) shows the transmission process for gas leak and fire interlocking signals. In this transmission process, the signal processing unit 164 starts carrier sense C after detecting a gas leak, and upon detection of a fire during carrier sense C, transmits an interlocking signal that notifies of both the gas leak and the fire.

[0074] Figure 8(f) shows the transmission process for gas leak and fire alarm signals. In this transmission process, the signal processing unit 164 starts carrier sense C after detecting a gas leak, and upon detection of a fire after carrier sense C, it first transmits a gas leak alarm signal, then performs carrier sense C three more times, and finally transmits a fire alarm signal. The above is an explanation of a specific example of signal transmission processing.

[0075] In the signal transmission process described above, the gas leak alert signal is configured to have more carrier senses than the fire alert signal. Therefore, fire alerts are more likely to be notified simultaneously with gas leak alerts. In other words, fire alerts are more likely to be notified without delay than gas leak alerts. For this reason, fire alerts can be given priority over gas leak alerts.

[0076] In the above description of the signal transmission process, the master unit 1A transmits a fire alarm signal or a gas leak alarm signal to the slave unit 1B. However, the above signal transmission process is also performed when the slave unit 1B transmits a fire alarm signal or a gas leak alarm signal to the master unit 1A or to other slave units 1B. In this case, however, the signal processing unit 168 of the slave unit 1B performs the above signal transmission process instead of the signal processing unit 164 of the master unit 1A.

[0077] 2. Variations The above embodiment may be modified as follows. Furthermore, the following modifications may be combined with each other.

[0078] 2-1. Variation 1 In the signal transmission process according to the above embodiment, if the signal processing unit 164 or 168 detects another anomaly during carrier sensing, it notifies both the initial anomaly and the other anomaly. Alternatively, the signal processing unit 164 or 168 may adopt a notification method in which it first notifies only of the other anomaly detected during carrier sensing.

[0079] When this notification method is adopted, the master unit 1A is equipped with a signal processing unit 164A instead of the signal processing unit 164. This signal processing unit 164A transmits an interlocking signal upon receiving instructions from the fire interlocking processing unit 161, the gas leak interlocking processing unit 162, or the recovery processing unit 163.

[0080] In particular, when the signal processing unit 164A receives instructions from the fire interlocking processing unit 161 and transmits a fire interlocking signal, it performs carrier sensing three times before transmitting the fire interlocking signal. Also, when the signal processing unit 164A receives instructions from the gas leak interlocking processing unit 162 and transmits a gas leak interlocking signal, it performs carrier sensing six times before transmitting the gas leak interlocking signal. However, if a fire is newly detected while the signal processing unit 164A is performing carrier sensing, it transmits an interlocking signal notifying of the fire instead of the gas leak. Then, after transmitting that interlocking signal, it transmits an interlocking signal notifying of the gas leak. The reason for notifying of a fire before a gas leak is that fires have a higher priority (in other words, a higher degree of urgency or importance).

[0081] On the other hand, the slave unit 1B is equipped with a signal processing unit 168A instead of the signal processing unit 168. This signal processing unit 168A receives instructions from the fire interlock processing unit 165, the gas leak interlock processing unit 166, or the recovery processing unit 167 and transmits interlock signals, etc.

[0082] In particular, when the signal processing unit 168A receives instructions from the fire interlocking processing unit 165 and transmits a fire interlocking signal, it performs carrier sensing three times before transmitting the fire interlocking signal. Also, when the signal processing unit 168A receives instructions from the gas leak interlocking processing unit 166 and transmits a gas leak interlocking signal, it performs carrier sensing six times before transmitting the gas leak interlocking signal. However, if a fire is newly detected while the carrier sensing is being performed, the signal processing unit 168A transmits an interlocking signal notifying of the fire instead of the gas leak. Then, after transmitting that interlocking signal, it transmits an interlocking signal notifying of the gas leak. The reason for notifying of a fire before a gas leak is that fires have a higher priority (in other words, a higher degree of urgency or importance).

[0083] Next, we will explain the notification methods related to this modification. Specifically, we will explain the fire alarm signal transmission process and the gas leak signal transmission process.

[0084] First, let's explain the fire alarm signal transmission process. This fire alarm signal transmission process is the process by which fire alarm 1 transmits a fire alarm signal to other fire alarms 1. Figure 9 is a flowchart showing this fire alarm signal transmission process. Below, we will refer to Figure 9 and explain the case where the master unit 1A transmits a fire alarm signal to the slave unit 1B.

[0085] In the fire-linked signal transmission process shown in the figure, the signal processing unit 164A of the master unit 1A first initializes the count value m (step Sf1). Next, the signal processing unit 164A determines whether the count value m is equal to or greater than the carrier sense count of "3" (step Sf2). If the result of this determination is that the count value m is less than the carrier sense count of "3" (NO in step Sf2), the signal processing unit 164A performs a carrier sense (step Sf4) and determines whether the level of the detected received signal is below a predetermined threshold (step Sf5). If the result of this determination is that the level of the detected received signal is greater than the predetermined threshold (NO in step Sf5), the signal processing unit 164A waits for a predetermined time (NO in step Sf6). Then, after the predetermined time has elapsed (YES in step Sf6), it returns to step Sf1. On the other hand, if the result of the determination in step Sf5 is that the level of the detected received signal is below a predetermined threshold (YES in step Sf5), the signal processing unit 164A increments the count value m (step Sf7) and returns to step Sf2.

[0086] Then, if the result of the determination in step Sf2 is that the count value m is 3 or more (YES in step Sf2), the signal processing unit 164A transmits a fire interlock signal to the slave unit 1B (step Sf3). The above is an explanation of the fire-related signal transmission process.

[0087] Next, we will explain the gas leak interlock signal transmission process. This gas leak interlock signal transmission process is the process by which fire alarm 1 transmits a gas leak interlock signal to other fire alarm 1s. Figure 10 is a flowchart showing this gas leak interlock signal transmission process. In the following, we will refer to Figure 10 and explain the case in which master unit 1A transmits a gas leak interlock signal to slave unit 1B.

[0088] In the gas leak interlock signal transmission process shown in the figure, the signal processing unit 164A of the master unit 1A first initializes the count value k (step Sg1). Next, the signal processing unit 164A determines whether a new fire has been detected (step Sg2). If a new fire is detected as a result of this determination (YES in step Sg2), the signal processing unit 164A executes the fire interlock signal transmission process described above (step Sg3). After executing the fire interlock signal transmission process, it returns to step Sg1. On the other hand, if a new fire has not been detected as a result of this determination (NO in step Sg2), it performs carrier sensing (step Sg4) and determines whether the level of the detected received signal is below a predetermined threshold (step Sg5). If the level of the detected received signal is greater than the predetermined threshold as a result of this determination (NO in step Sg5), the signal processing unit 164A waits for a predetermined time (NO in step Sg6). After the predetermined time has elapsed (YES in step Sg6), it returns to step Sg1. On the other hand, if the result of the determination in step Sg5 is that the level of the detected received signal is below a predetermined threshold (YES in step Sg5), the signal processing unit 164A increments the count value k (step Sg7). Then, it determines whether the incremented count value k is 6 or more (step Sg8). If the result of this determination is that the incremented count value k is less than 6 (NO in step Sg8), the signal processing unit 164A returns to step Sg2. On the other hand, if the result of this determination is that the incremented count value k is 6 or more (YES in step Sg8), the signal processing unit 164A transmits a gas leak interlocking signal to the slave unit 1B (step Sg9). The above is an explanation of the gas leak-related signal transmission process.

[0089] Next, we will explain specific examples of the fire alarm signal transmission process and the gas leak signal transmission process described above. Figure 11 is a time chart showing specific examples of these two transmission processes.

[0090] Figure 11(a) shows the transmission process for the fire alarm signal. In this transmission process, the signal processing unit 164A performs carrier sense C three times after fire detection, and then transmits the fire alarm signal.

[0091] Figure 11(b) shows the transmission process for fire and gas leak signals. In this transmission process, the signal processing unit 164A starts carrier sense C after fire detection, and upon detection of a gas leak during carrier sense C, first transmits a fire signal, then performs carrier sense C six times, and finally transmits a gas leak signal.

[0092] Figure 11(c) shows the transmission process for fire and gas leak signals. In this transmission process, the signal processing unit 164A starts carrier sense C after fire detection, and upon detection of a gas leak after carrier sense C, it first transmits a fire signal, then performs carrier sense C six times, and finally transmits a gas leak signal.

[0093] Figure 11(d) shows the transmission process for the gas leak interlock signal. In this transmission process, the signal processing unit 164A performs carrier sense C six times after detecting a gas leak, and then transmits the gas leak interlock signal.

[0094] Figure 11(e) shows the transmission process for gas leak and fire alarm signals. In this transmission process, the signal processing unit 164A starts carrier sense C after detecting a gas leak, and upon detection of a fire during carrier sense C, first transmits a fire alarm signal, then performs carrier sense C six times, and finally transmits a gas leak alarm signal.

[0095] Figure 11(f) shows the transmission process for gas leak and fire alarm signals. In this transmission process, the signal processing unit 164A starts carrier sense C after detecting a gas leak, and upon detection of a fire after carrier sense C, it first transmits a gas leak alarm signal, then performs carrier sense C three times, and finally transmits a fire alarm signal.

[0096] In the gas leak interlock signal transmission process described above, if a fire is detected during carrier sensing, the fire interlock signal is transmitted before the gas leak interlock signal. Therefore, fires can be notified more quickly than gas leaks.

[0097] In addition, in the gas leak interlock signal transmission process described above, the number of carrier senses for the gas leak interlock signal is set to be higher than that for the fire interlock signal. Therefore, compared to the case where the number of carrier senses is set to be the same as that for the fire interlock signal, fires are more likely to be notified preferentially.

[0098] In the above explanation of the fire alarm signal transmission process and the gas leak signal transmission process, the master unit 1A transmits a fire alarm signal or a gas leak signal to the slave unit 1B. However, the same two transmission processes are also performed when the slave unit 1B transmits a fire alarm signal or a gas leak signal to the master unit 1A or to other slave units 1B. In this case, however, the signal processing unit 168A of the slave unit 1B performs the same two transmission processes instead of the signal processing unit 164A of the master unit 1A.

[0099] 2-2. Variation 2 In the gas leak interlock signal transmission process according to the above modified example 1, when executing the fire interlock signal transmission process, the count value k accumulated in the gas leak interlock signal transmission process may be carried over. That is, the count value k accumulated in the gas leak interlock signal transmission process may be set as the initial value of the count value m in the fire interlock signal transmission process (see step Sf1 in Figure 9). By carrying over the count value k in this way, the fire interlock signal can be transmitted earlier.

[0100] 2-3. Variation 3 In the above embodiment and modification 1, the transmission of the fire interlock signal and the gas leak interlock signal is prioritized by making the number of carrier senses for both signals different. However, these signals are just examples of signals for which transmission priority can be set. As another example, the fire alarm 1 may be equipped with a human motion sensor instead of the gas leak detection unit 12, and the transmission of the fire interlock signal and the human detection interlock signal may be prioritized by making the number of carrier senses for both signals different. As yet another example, the fire alarm 1 may be equipped with a human motion sensor instead of the fire detection unit 11, and the transmission of the gas leak interlock signal and the human detection interlock signal may be prioritized by making the number of carrier senses for both signals different. As yet another example, the fire alarm 1 may be equipped with a smoke sensor and a heat sensor as the fire detection unit 11, the gas leak detection unit 12 may be omitted, and the transmission of the smoke detection interlock signal and the heat detection interlock signal may be prioritized by making the number of carrier senses for both signals different. As yet another example, a human motion sensor may be added to the fire alarm 1, and the transmission of the three signals may be prioritized by making the number of carrier senses for the fire interlock signal, the gas leak interlock signal, and the human detection interlock signal different. In cases where the number of carrier senses for three or more signals is different, and the transmission process of the second signal interrupts the transmission process of the first signal (see Figure 10), the need to carry over the count value (see Modification 2) may be determined according to the priority (in other words, urgency or importance) of the second signal. For example, if a fire alarm signal is transmitted as an interruption during the transmission process of a gas leak alarm signal, the count value may be carried over, while if a gas leak signal is transmitted as an interruption during the transmission process of a human detection alarm signal, the count value may not be carried over.

[0101] Although not specifically mentioned above, the number of carrier senses when transmitting the recovery interlock signal (and recovery notification) may be increased compared to when transmitting the (fire / gas leak) interlock signal to prioritize the continuation of the fire / gas leak alarm state over recovery.

[0102] 2-4. Variation 4 In the above embodiment and modification 1, the number of carrier senses for the fire alarm signal is set to "3", and the number of carrier senses for the gas leak alarm signal is set to "6". However, these settings are merely examples. The number of carrier senses for the fire alarm signal and the gas leak alarm signal may be set to other values ​​as long as the latter is greater than the former.

[0103] 2-5. Variation 5 In the fire recovery process according to the above embodiment, the master unit 1A determines whether the entire system can be restored. Alternatively, a method may be adopted in which each fire alarm 1 individually determines whether it can be restored. Specifically, each fire alarm 1 may stop the operation of its own alarm unit 13 when it receives a recovery notification from all other fire alarms 1 that have detected a fire, and its own fire detection unit 11 does not detect a fire. A similar recovery method may be applied to gas leak recovery processing.

[0104] 2-6. Variation 6 In the fire alarm system 100 described above, the parent and child units of the fire alarm 1 are distinguished. However, the distinction between parent and child units of the fire alarm 1 is not essential. Each process described in the above embodiment and modification 1 may be performed in a fire alarm system without parent-child distinction.

[0105] 2-7. Variation 7 The signal processing unit 164 or 168 according to the above embodiment may be controlled to repeatedly transmit the interlocking signal a number of times corresponding to the type of interlocking signal to be transmitted. For example, it may be controlled to transmit a fire interlocking signal more often than a gas leak interlocking signal.

[0106] In addition to or instead of this control, the signal processing unit 164 or 168 may be controlled to repeatedly transmit the interlocking signal at a frequency corresponding to the type of interlocking signal to be transmitted. For example, the fire interlocking signal may be controlled to be transmitted at a shorter frequency than the gas leak interlocking signal.

[0107] The two types of control described above may also be applied to the signal processing unit 164A or 168A according to the modified example 1.

[0108] 2-8. Variation 8 In the signal transmission process according to the above embodiment, carrier sensing is performed a predetermined number of times or more before determining whether another abnormality has been newly detected (see Figure 7). Therefore, if a fire is detected after a gas leak is detected, carrier sensing will be performed six or more times before an interlocking signal notifying of the gas leak and fire is transmitted (see Figure 8(e)). However, instead of this transmission method, if a fire is detected after a gas leak is detected, an interlocking signal notifying of the gas leak and fire may be transmitted after carrier sensing has been performed three or more times. By adopting such a transmission method, the interlocking signal notifying of the fire can be transmitted earlier. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0109] 1...Fire alarm, 1A...Master unit, 1B...Slave unit, 11...Fire detection unit, 12...Gas leak detection unit, 13...Alarm unit, 14...Wireless communication unit, 15...Operation reception unit, 16...Power supply unit, 17...Control unit, 161...Fire interlock processing unit, 162...Gas leak interlock processing unit, 163...Recovery processing unit, 164, 164A...Signal processing unit, 165...Fire interlock processing unit, 166...Gas leak interlock processing unit, 167...Recovery processing unit, 168, 168A...Signal processing unit, C...Carrier sense, H...Residential

Claims

1. A detection unit that detects abnormalities, After carrier sensing is performed, a signal processing unit transmits a signal to notify of the abnormality detected by the detection unit. Equipped with, If the detection unit detects a second abnormality with higher priority than the first abnormality while performing carrier sensing in response to the detection of the first abnormality, the signal processing unit transmits a signal to notify the second abnormality in place of the first abnormality, or together with the first abnormality. A wireless device characterized by the following features.

2. If the detection unit detects the second abnormality during the execution of the carrier sense in response to the detection of the first abnormality, the signal processing unit transmits a signal notifying the second abnormality along with the first abnormality. The wireless device according to claim 1.

3. If the detection unit detects a second abnormality during the execution of carrier sensing in response to the detection of the first abnormality, the signal processing unit transmits a signal notifying the second abnormality after performing carrier sensing a number of times or for a duration corresponding to the second abnormality. The number of times or duration of carrier senses performed in response to the detection of the first anomaly is carried over as the number of times or duration of carrier senses performed corresponding to the second anomaly. The wireless device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. If the detection unit detects a second abnormality during the execution of carrier sensing in response to the detection of the first abnormality, the signal processing unit transmits a signal notifying the second abnormality along with the first abnormality when the number of carrier sensing operations or the duration reaches a value smaller than the number of operations or the duration corresponding to the second abnormality. A wireless device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. When the signal processing unit recovers from an abnormal state, after performing carrier sensing, it transmits a signal to notify of the recovery. The value indicating the number or duration of carrier senses corresponding to the recovery is greater than the value indicating the number or duration of carrier senses corresponding to the anomaly. A wireless device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

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