Smart socket devices and electrical safety systems

Abstract

A smart socket device is described that includes a socket configured to receive an electrical plug of an electrical appliance, a mains current connector for connecting to a mains power cable, a PCB with a conductor configured to pass electrical current through the conductor between the mains current connector and the electrical plug during use, a thermal sensor configured to detect a surface temperature of the conductor of the PCB, a processor configured to communicate with the thermal sensor and determine when the detected surface temperature of the conductor exceeds a predetermined threshold, and a communication link configured to communicate with a remote device. The invention also includes an electrical safety system that includes a smart socket device configured to communicate with one or more remote devices. The invention also includes a safety module for insertion into the electrical socket device and a safety module for insertion into the smart socket device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a smart socket device for detecting the presence of a hazard, and to a system of a plurality of interconnected smart socket devices for detecting and addressing hazards.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, concerns have been raised over fire risks caused by failures of household electrical appliances. It is reported that 70% of accidental residential fires are caused by electrical equipment and power supply. Many of these fires are caused by small electrical surges or changes in ambient conditions, which can be mitigated if detected and addressed at an early stage. Accordingly, in the modern era where an increasing proportion of household appliances require a constant electrical connection, measures must be taken to ensure the safety of household users and residents who use such appliances.

[0003] One approach is to install sensors in homes that detect parameters indicating the presence of a fire (such as smoke, CO, CO₂, or harmful gas). These sensors can detect fire hazards and trigger an alarm to warn nearby residents. However, in many cases, by the time such an indication is identified, the fire has already started, so it is too late to completely prevent damage and eliminate the hazard to building occupants. Furthermore, this approach cannot always guarantee attracting the attention of nearby residents, and it has been shown that such systems do not dramatically reduce the occurrence of household fires. Furthermore, when household residents are away from home, there is often no way for them to know what is happening in the home, and it may even take several weeks before residents are actually aware of the detected parameters and the potential catastrophic impact of a fire.

[0004] Another consideration is that as urban populations increase, more people are living in apartment buildings and other multi-unit dwellings specifically designed for this purpose. Some multi-unit dwellings may choose to adopt a "walking watch" service, where staff manually patrol the building, detect fires, and sound alarms as needed. However, such services are expensive and inefficient. Furthermore, if only a communal alarm system is in operation, it can be difficult for both residents and emergency services to pinpoint the source of the hazard.

[0005] Therefore, a system is needed that can detect potential fire risks early and prevent or mitigate the impact of detected fire risks. [Overview of the project] [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The smart socket according to the present invention comprises a socket configured to receive an electrical plug of an electrical device; a main current connector for connecting to a main power cable; a PCB having a conductor configured to allow current to flow through the conductor between the main current connector and the electrical plug during use; a thermal sensor configured to detect the surface temperature of the conductor on the PCB; a processor configured to communicate with the thermal sensor and determine when the detected surface temperature of the conductor exceeds a predetermined threshold; and a communication link configured to communicate with a remote device.

[0007] "PCB conductors" are preferably conductive elements of the PCB within a smart socket device that form part of the current conduction path between a receptacle that contacts an electrical plug during use and terminals configured to connect the smart socket to the rest of the power network. In a preferred example, PCB conductors are part of conductive material placed on the PCB and left intentionally exposed for surface temperature measurement. This could be a planar portion of conductive material, e.g., wiring on the PCB, which can be introduced into a circuit, particularly for surface temperature measurement, or form part of an existing current path. In a preferred example, PCB conductors can be made of known material and / or dimensions so that other electrical properties can be inferred from surface temperature measurements without requiring additional sensors.

[0008] By detecting the surface temperature of the PCB conductors and identifying when the conductor surface temperature exceeds a predetermined threshold, the smart socket device according to the present invention can identify potential hazards at an earlier stage than conventional electrical hazard detection methods. Advantageously, by measuring the surface temperature of the PCB conductors rather than the plug housing or protrusions, the material and geometric shape of the temperature measurement site are independent of any electrical equipment plugged into the socket, thereby improving the accuracy and consistency of surface temperature detection.

[0009] The thermal sensor is configured to detect the surface temperature of the PCB's conductors, but it can also detect the presence of a flame.

[0010] The processor may be configured to determine when the surface temperature of a PCB conductor exhibits behavior indicating a potential electrical hazard. For example, it may be configured to determine when the temperature gradient across the surface of a PCB conductor exceeds a certain level, when the surface temperature distribution across a PCB conductor exhibits a certain behavior, or when the rate of change of surface temperature exhibits a certain behavior. The processor may also use machine learning algorithms and may be trained to identify such behavior indicating a particular hazard. The smart socket device may further include a memory configured to hold data on the surface temperature behavior of a conductor associated with a particular hazard, and the processor may be configured to receive conductor surface temperature data from a thermal sensor and compare it with data stored in memory to determine the presence of a hazard. The processor may be configured to determine the presence of a hazard based on the output of a thermal sensor in combination with one or more sensors, for example, a machine learning algorithm may determine the presence of a hazard based on the output of a combination of sensors, in particular the temperature of a conductor detected by a thermal sensor in combination with a measured current passing through the conductor, detected by a current sensor.

[0011] Preferably, the thermal sensor of the smart socket device may be configured to provide non-contact measurement of the temperature of the PCB conductors during use. This provides a more accurate means of identifying the temperature and avoids the need for a sensor that is precisely positioned to be in contact with the PCB conductors, where even slight displacement of the sensor over the device's lifespan could lead to unsuccessful measurements.

[0012] Preferably, the thermal sensor is an infrared sensor. The infrared sensor may be, for example, a photon detector, a pyroelectric detector, or a thermopile detector. Examples of such sensors are pyrometers and infrared thermal imaging sensors. Particularly preferably, the thermal sensor is an infrared camera equipped with an array of thermopile detector pixels. In this way, a very accurate reading of the surface temperature can be determined to reliably identify hazards. The use of thermal imaging allows for the distribution and changes of the temperature being measured, and allows more information to be collected to provide a more reliable identification of electrical hazards at an earlier stage.

[0013] Preferably, the thermal sensor includes a lens that provides a wide field of view, for example, 30 to 90 degrees, preferably about 60 degrees.

[0014] In other examples, the thermal sensor of a smart socket device may be configured to contact and measure the temperature of a PCB conductor during use. Examples of such thermal sensors include NTC thermistors, PTC thermistors, resistance temperature detectors (RTDs), thermocouples, and semiconductor-based sensors. In these examples, the temperature sensor may be configured to contact the surface of a PCB conductor to measure the surface temperature, or it may be thermally coupled to the surface of a PCB conductor in a different manner.

[0015] Preferably, the conductors of the smart socket device include conductive tracks extending across the plane of the PCB, and the thermal sensor is positioned to face the conductive tracks. In particular, the smart socket device may comprise a first PCB and a second PCB containing a thermal sensor, with the conductive tracks positioned on the plane of the first PCB, and the first and second PCBs positioned such that the thermal sensor on the second PCB faces the conductive tracks on the first PCB. More specifically, the first PCB may be positioned between the socket and the second PCB, and the first PCB includes a first plane facing the socket and a second opposing plane facing the second PCB, with the conductive tracks positioned on the second plane. This provides a compact arrangement for performing temperature sensing without substantially increasing the dimensions of the smart socket device, and also allows for retrofitting to existing smart sockets.

[0016] The conductor is preferably a planar conductor or includes a planar portion, which is arranged on the surface of the (first) PCB.

[0017] Alternatively or additionally, the conductors of the smart socket may include a connector positioned to contact the pins of an electrical plug when received in the socket.

[0018] Both of the above conductor arrangements provide a fixed area for the conductive material inside the smart socket device, and as a result, the thermal sensor can reliably detect the surface temperature of the conductor without being affected by the external environment.

[0019] Preferably, the socket is configured to receive a plug having live pins and neutral pins, the PCB comprises live conductors configured to conduct current between live main wires and live pins, and neutral conductors configured to conduct current between main neutral wires and neutral pins, and the thermal sensor is configured to measure the temperature of the live conductors and / or neutral conductors. In particular, the smart socket device may comprise a first thermal sensor configured to measure the temperature of the live conductors and a second thermal sensor configured to measure the temperature of the neutral conductor.

[0020] Preferably, the smart socket device further comprises a housing, the socket is provided on the surface of the housing, and the PCB and thermal sensor are located inside the housing. This allows the PCB and thermal sensor to be fully housed within the housing of the smart socket safety device so that they are protected.

[0021] Preferably, the conductor is provided on a first PCB, and the first PCB is configured to provide smart socket functionality. Particularly preferably, the first PCB includes a relay for disconnecting the mains power supply to the electrical device plugged into the socket. Preferably, the first PCB includes a current sensor for measuring the current conducted through the conductor. Preferably, a thermal sensor is provided on a second PCB located adjacent to the first PCB. In this way, the first PCB provides the functionality associated with a conventional smart socket, and the second PCB provides the additional temperature sensing functionality of the present invention. In this way, both the first and second PCBs can be modular components and can be replaced and upgraded as needed. Furthermore, conductor temperature sensing can be retrofitted to an existing smart socket by installing the second PCB adjacent to an existing first PCB that provides smart socket functionality.

[0022] Preferably, the smart socket device further comprises an ambient temperature sensor configured to measure the ambient temperature in the vicinity of the smart socket device. Particularly preferably, the processor is configured to determine a predetermined threshold (or temperature change behavior related to electrical faults) based on the local ambient temperature measured by the ambient temperature sensor. This allows the predetermined threshold to be adapted based on the heat generated from the environment in which the smart socket device is located and / or from the electrical components of the smart socket device itself.

[0023] Preferably, the smart socket device further comprises a relay configured to connect and then disconnect an electrical plug to a main current connector. Particularly preferably, a processor is configured to receive commands from a remote device via a communication link and to control the relay in response to one or more of the following: a detected surface temperature exceeding a predetermined threshold and data from a programmable timer in the smart socket device. In this way, the smart socket device can, upon instruction from a remote operator, automatically interrupt the supply of current to address a hazard when the conductor surface temperature reaches a hazard level, or automatically at a specified time of day to reduce energy consumption. Commands from the remote device may be issued from a smart user device of a resident or emergency responder.

[0024] Preferably, the smart socket device comprises one or more additional sensors, wherein the one or more sensors comprise one or more of a smoke and / or gas sensor, a carbon monoxide sensor, a moisture and / or water sensor, and a current sensor that enables the device to sense the presence of a wider range of hazards and identify hazards more reliably. For example, a smart socket device further comprising a current sensor may be configured to detect current passing through a conductor of a PCB, and the processor is configured to determine the presence of an electrical fault based on a combination of data received from the current sensor and data received from the heat sensor. This allows the smart socket device to identify hazards more quickly, since an increase in the surface temperature of a conductor is likely to precede an increase in the current flowing through said conductor.

[0025] Preferably, the smart socket device comprises one or more of a smoke and / or gas sensor, a carbon monoxide sensor, and a current sensor, and the processor is configured to determine whether a corresponding parameter sensed by each sensor exceeds a predetermined threshold. The combination of sensors enables reliable identification of substantially all domestic hazards associated with electrical equipment.

[0026] Preferably, the processor is configured to identify the presence of a hazard based on the output of a combination of sensors. In particular, the processor uses a combined approach in which the outputs of a plurality of sensors are used to more reliably identify risk. For example, the processor may use a machine learning algorithm that uses outputs from a plurality of sensors to identify risk. In this way, hazards can be identified more reliably than when based on the output of a single sensor. For example, a combination of outputs from a current sensor and a heat sensor can be used to more reliably identify the presence of an electrical fault. In a particularly preferred example, outputs from a current sensor, a heat sensor, and an ambient temperature sensor are used to identify the presence of an electrical fault.

[0027] The smart socket device may have one, two or more sockets, and each of the sockets may have its own current sensor and relay switch.

[0028] The smart socket device is configured such that each sensed parameter has a corresponding threshold or behavior indicating the presence of a hazard. The device may include a memory storing data including such thresholds and behavior change patterns, so that the processor can compare the sensed parameters with corresponding data to identify the presence of potential risks. Similarly, the processor can compare the behavior of the combination of sensed parameters with response data stored in the memory, so as to identify the presence of a hazard more reliably than when based on the output of a single sensor.

[0029] The smart socket device may further include a water sensor. The smart socket device comprises a main body accommodating the socket, a thermal sensor and a processor, the water sensor is arranged to be disposed on a surface under the main body of the smart socket device, and the water sensor is connectable to the main body via a cable connection or a wireless connection. This also enables detection of water leakage, which can be particularly dangerous when combined with an electrical fault. The processor may be configured to analyze the response of the water sensor in combination with one or more other sensors, so as to determine the presence of a hazard more reliably.

[0030] In one example, the smart socket device is a plug-in adapter unit further comprising a plug portion configured to be received into a mains power socket, the plug portion being positioned relative to the socket so that when the plug portion is received into the mains power socket, the mains power plug of the electrical equipment can be received into the socket of the smart socket device. This allows the smart socket device to be used with existing mains power sockets in a building by simply plugging the plug portion of the adapter unit into the mains power socket and plugging the equipment to be monitored into the socket of the adapter unit. The plug-in adapter may have a single socket or multiple sockets, forming an extension lead.

[0031] In another example, a smart socket device is a faceplate for a mains power socket. Preferably, the faceplate for a mains power socket is configured to be mounted on a surface such as a wall to interface with the mains power wiring. In particular, a smart socket device is a mains power socket fascia unit that can be installed in a building in place of a conventional mains power socket unit by, for example, screwing the device to the wall of an electrical access point. This allows smart socket devices to be installed throughout the building to monitor all electrical equipment.

[0032] Preferably, the smart socket device further includes an audible and / or visual alarm.

[0033] Preferably, the communication link is configured to communicate wirelessly with the remote device. This allows the smart socket device to be used in an electrical safety system (i.e., a smart socket device network) throughout a building to identify risks, alert users, and address those risks. Preferably, the smart socket device is configured to communicate with other smart socket devices and / or remote devices, including, for example, a Wi-Fi® network, a narrowband radio frequency network, Bluetooth®, a mobile carrier network, or a mesh network communicating according to the OpenThread networking protocol. Employing two or more potential communication networks allows for contingency planning in case one of the networks fails. Alternatively, or in addition to wireless communication, communication may also be performed using optical or other wired communication networks, preferably Ethernet or power line communication (PLC).

[0034] The smart socket device preferably further comprises means for providing warnings to the user. Preferably, the warning means include an audible and / or visual alarm that can be activated to notify the user when the processor determines that the surface temperature of the conductive material of the PCB has exceeded a threshold. The smart socket device is also preferably configured to send a warning to a user device, such as a smartphone, to inform the user of the location and type of the identified hazard. The device may also be configured to use a voice assistant (Apple TM Siri, Google TM Assistant, Microsoft TM Cortana, Amazon TM It can be configured to notify users (such as Alexa) and provide information about hazards and directions for leaving the building.

[0035] Smart socket devices offer further advantages when provided in an electrical safety system that includes one or more smart socket devices and one or more remote devices. In this way, the devices can communicate to notify the user of a risk and take action automatically or when prompted by the user to address the hazard.

[0036] In another aspect of the present invention, an electrical safety system is provided comprising a smart socket device according to a first aspect of the present invention and one or more remote devices, wherein the smart socket device is configured to send a signal to the remote devices using a communication link when a processor determines that the surface temperature of a PCB conductor exceeds a predetermined threshold. In this way, the remote devices can warn the user or take action to address a potential hazard.

[0037] Remote devices may include any device connected to the network via a communication link, which is typically not a smart socket device but could be, for example, a smartphone, smart television, voice assistant device, or other smart user device, as well as remotely controlled valves, a router or hub, a docking station for a mobile phone, a fire alarm, a smoke alarm, a sprinkler system, and dynamic lighting signs.

[0038] Preferably, the communication link comprises a wireless communication link, which is preferably provided by one or more of the following: a narrowband radio frequency network, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, a mobile carrier network, and a mesh network communicating according to the Thread (i.e., OpenThread) networking protocol. Implementing two or more networks allows for contingency coverage in the event of a failure in one of the networks. Alternatively, or in addition to wireless communication, communication may also be performed using optical or other wired communication networks, preferably Ethernet or power line communication (PLC).

[0039] Preferably, the electrical safety system further comprises one or more smart socket devices and one or more remote devices, the smart socket devices and remote devices forming a mesh network that the smart socket devices and remote devices can communicate with. In this way, each device can communicate with other devices so that coordinated actions and alerts can be provided. Particularly preferably, the smart socket devices and remote devices are configured to communicate according to the OpenThread networking protocol. This allows the network to operate without a single point of failure and provides redundancy to the mesh network.

[0040] The electrical safety system may include processing units that are located outside the smart socket device, either locally as standalone remote devices within the same building as the smart socket device, or integrated into a multi-functional remote device. Furthermore, the processing units may be provided as a distributed system (e.g., a "cloud" system). In some examples, the electrical safety system may have local processing units for processing data received from the smart socket device and remote devices, and the system may be further configured to send data to remote processing units in the cloud, thereby allowing the location where processing takes place to be selected based on a specific task, processing requirements, or current network status.

[0041] Preferably, at least one remote device of the electrical safety system includes a smart user device, which is configured to provide an audible or visual alert after receiving a signal from a smart socket device. This allows the electrical safety system to effectively notify the user when an identified hazard occurs. Typically, a smart user device, such as a smartphone or other smart device, can run one or two forms of software, or “apps,” such as (1) a user app (for residents) and (2) a responder app (for emergency services and building authorities). The smartphone (or other smart user device) can run app (1) or (2) which allows the user to manage the system and receive alerts. In particular, when a hazard is detected, a signal can be sent from the smart socket device to the smart user device, and app (1) or (2) can display information about the hazard, such as that a fire has been detected, the location of the fire, and options for the user to limit the potential spread of the fire, such as by cutting off the power or calling emergency services. Furthermore, if the responder's smart user device has location capabilities, the responder's substantially real-time location can be provided to other smart user devices running user app (1).

[0042] Data may be transmitted from each smart socket device and remote device directly or indirectly through other processing nodes, for example, via a data communication interface, preferably a cellular network modem (and / or SIM card) integrated into each device for direct communication with the processing unit over the internet. More typically, a smart socket device or remote device may communicate with a node ("hub") in the local network, and the hub may communicate data to the processing unit over an external network such as the internet.

[0043] The processing unit may be communicatively coupled to memory, which may be "cloud" memory, that stores information about devices within the electrical safety system, the location of smart socket devices within the electrical safety system, and the building layout where the local devices of the electrical safety system are located. The building layout data may include a pre-generated 3D map of locations within the building. Alternatively, the building layout may be generated based on the location of smart socket devices within a mesh network within the building. The building layout data can be accessed, for example, via an app (1) or (2) on a smart user device for evacuation by evacuees and for emergency response by emergency services. This data is typically stored in the cloud and accessed using appropriate user permissions and identity management. This data can also be provided to local hospitals, for example, to notify them of potential emergency hospitalizations and to prepare for those hospitalizations.

[0044] Preferably, at least one remote device is a voice assistant device (Apple TM Siri, Google TM Assistant, Microsoft TM Cortana, Amazon TM Voice assistant devices (such as Alexa) are configured to notify the user when they receive a signal from a smart socket device. The voice assistant device may be configured to provide one or more of the following: information about the type and location of the hazard, information to provide options for responding (e.g., calling emergency services, activating an isolation device), or information on how to safely exit the building to avoid the hazard.

[0045] Preferably, at least one remote device comprises a dynamic signage with a configurable display, the dynamic signage being configured to receive signals from a smart socket and to display information on the configurable display in response to receiving signals from the smart socket device. The dynamic signage preferably includes a matrix of LEDs so that the information displayed by the signage is programmable. The system is preferably configured to display instructions on the dynamic signage to coordinate evacuations in emergencies. In particular, the dynamic signage is configured to display evacuation, instructions, and / or accident updates.

[0046] Preferably, at least one remote device includes a speaker configured to sound an alarm or provide an audible announcement in response to receiving a signal from the smart socket device.

[0047] Preferably, at least one remote device includes a computer system of the fire station. In response to receiving a signal from the smart socket device, the fire station may be provided with information regarding the status of the identified hazard. This could, for example, enable emergency responders to arrive at the scene faster and with more information if the hazard develops into a fire.

[0048] Preferably, the firefighter helmet comprises an integrated visor with at least one remote device providing augmented reality functionality, and further includes a battery pack and a communication link. In particular, in response to receiving signals from a smart socket device, the augmented reality visor can provide the wearer with information about the current status of a hazard identified by the smart socket device, a 3D map of the building where the smart socket device is located showing where the hazard is located, and digital markers / symbols that provide information to the wearer.

[0049] Preferably, at least one remote device of the electrical safety system includes an isolation unit with a communication link, which is configured to restrict the flow of water, gas, or electricity through the isolation unit upon receiving a signal from a smart socket device. In this way, the isolation unit can receive communications from the smart socket device indicating that the equipment is behaving in a way that suggests a malfunction, and the isolation device can take action to restrict or prevent the flow of service to a specific piece of equipment, part of a building, or the entire building.

[0050] At least one remote device comprises a smart user device, which is preferably configured to send a signal to an isolation unit in order to remotely control the isolation unit after receiving a signal from a smart socket device. This may be done by a building resident via app (1) or by an emergency responder via app (2).

[0051] Isolation units can take several different forms. In one example, at least one isolation unit comprises a local water isolation unit configured to be installed at a local water connection to electrical equipment, the local water isolation unit comprising a cable or wireless connection for connecting to a smart socket device and an electric valve, the local water isolation unit configured to close the electric valve to restrict the water supply to the electrical equipment when it receives a signal from the smart socket device. In this way, water supply to specific equipment, groups of equipment, or areas of a building can be restricted to prevent flooding or electrical problems caused by water.

[0052] Preferably, at least one isolation unit includes a mains isolation unit comprising at least one motorized valve configured to be installed in a main water supply pipe, header water tank, or gas supply pipe, wherein the mains isolation unit is configured to close the motorized valve to limit the mains power upon receiving a signal from a smart socket device. Preferably, at least one isolation unit includes a mains isolation unit comprising a mains cutoff switch, wherein the mains isolation unit is configured to activate the cutoff switch to cut off the mains power upon receiving a signal from a smart socket device. These mains cutoff units can be used to stop further supply of gas, electricity, or water to the entire building or specific zones within the building to prevent escalating hazards.

[0053] The main power isolation unit may be connected to a main power consumption unit and configured to activate a main switch on the main power consumption unit to shut off the main power supply. Alternatively, the main power isolation unit may be integrated into a consumer unit or fuse box.

[0054] The isolation unit may include one or more local sensors for identifying local hazards. Preferably, the isolation unit includes a processor and one or more of a heat sensor, a smoke and / or gas sensor, a carbon monoxide sensor, a moisture and / or water sensor, and a current sensor, and the isolation unit is configured to restrict the flow of water, gas, or electricity when the processor determines that a parameter sensed by the local sensor exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0055] When connected via a mesh network, the smart socket devices and isolation units constituting the electrical safety system are each assigned to groups, and it is preferable that multiple such smart socket devices and isolation units constitute each group. Grouping may be based, for example, on the location of the devices, particularly in the case of an electrical safety system deployed across a multi-family building. For example, an electrical safety system may comprise multiple smart socket devices arranged across several flats within a building and multiple mains isolation units configured to restrict the mains supply to each flat within the building. The smart socket devices may be grouped based on which flat they are located in, and the isolation units may be grouped based on which flats they restrict the mains supply to. If a first smart socket device located in a first flat determines that the detected surface temperature of a conductor exceeds a predetermined threshold, the first smart socket device can use grouping to identify which other smart socket devices are located in the first flat and optionally in adjacent flats. Furthermore, the first smart socket device can also use grouping to identify one or more isolation units that can restrict the mains supply to the first flat and optionally in adjacent flats. The first smart socket device can then automatically send signals to other identified smart socket devices and isolation units to, for example, disconnect the sockets of smart socket devices via provided relays and / or restrict one or more main supplies of gas, water, and electricity. This operation can be performed simultaneously or sequentially (for example, by distance from the first smart socket device), manually or automatically.

[0056] Preferably, when connected via a mesh network, smart socket devices constituting an electrical safety system can be used in conjunction with one or more processing units and memory of the electrical safety system to identify the location of amplified hazards, such as fires, within a building, and to provide a three-dimensional (3D) mapping of the building layout indicating the location of the hazards to residents and / or emergency responders via smart user devices or the aforementioned fire helmets. For example, if a first smart socket device located in a first flat of a multi-unit building determines that the detected surface temperature of a conductor exceeds a predetermined threshold, the first smart socket device can transmit a signal to a processing unit of the electrical safety system. The processing unit can then analyze the data transmitted by the first smart socket to determine the location of the hazard (e.g., which flat is the hazard). The processing unit can then retrieve the building layout where the local devices of the electrical safety system are located from a communicably coupled memory, and then use the hazard locations and building layout to generate a 3D map of the building indicating the location of the hazards. Alternatively, the 3D map of the building layout may be generated based on the locations of smart socket devices within the mesh network within the building. In the event of a hazard such as a fire escalating, this mapping allows emergency services to act more efficiently when they arrive on the scene, enabling residents to evacuate safely.

[0057] Optionally, the electrical safety system may include further independent sensors, such as a thermal sensor or module comprising multiple heat sensors, smoke sensors, gas sensors, carbon monoxide sensors, and water sensors, each having a communication link. The electrical safety system may further include electrical equipment having an integrated thermal sensor. The electrical safety system may further include additional safety devices, such as plug-in adapters, light switch faceplates, and wall / ceiling-mounted sensing units, each of which comprises at least a thermal sensor. Further details relating to the above safety devices can be found in UK Patent No. 2015243.5.

[0058] In another aspect of the present invention, a safety module for insertion into an electrical socket device is provided, the electrical socket device comprising a socket configured to receive an electrical plug of an electrical device and a main current connector for connecting to a main power cable, the safety module comprising a PCB having a conductor configured to allow current to flow through the conductor between the main current connector and the electrical plug during use, a thermal sensor configured to detect the surface temperature of the conductor on the PCB, a processor communicating with the thermal sensor and configured to determine when the detected surface temperature of the conductor exceeds a predetermined threshold, and a communication link configured to communicate with a remote device. In this way, the safety module can be retrofitted to a conventional socket to provide hazard detection by providing a first PCB having a conductor through which current from the main power supply to the device flows, and a second PCB having a thermal sensor for measuring the temperature of the conductor provided on the first PCB. The safety module can provide additional functions as described above in the first aspect of the present invention.

[0059] In a further aspect of the present invention, a safety module is provided for insertion into a conventional smart socket device, the smart socket device comprising a socket configured to receive an electrical plug of an electrical device, a main current connector for connecting to a main power cable, and a PCB having conductors configured to allow current to flow through the conductor between the main current connector and the electrical plug during use, the safety module comprising a thermal sensor configured to detect the surface temperature of the conductors on the PCB of the smart socket, and a processor communicating with the thermal sensor, configured to determine when the detected surface temperature of the conductors exceeds a predetermined threshold. Thus, the safety module can be retrofitted to a conventional smart socket device to provide hazard detection by measuring the temperature of conductors present on the PCB of the smart socket. Preferably, the safety module comprises a PCB on which the thermal sensor is provided, and the safety module is configured such that the PCB of the safety module is positioned adjacent to the PCB of the smart socket. The safety module can provide additional functionality as described above in the first aspect of the present invention.

[0060] All of the functions described above with respect to the smart socket device can also be implemented in the safety module described above. When the safety module is inserted into an electrical socket device or a smart socket device, it can be referred to herein as a smart socket device according to the present invention and can form part of the electrical safety system described above.

[0061] In this way, users can adapt conventional electrical socket devices or smart socket devices to the smart socket device according to the present invention by retrofitting a safety module within the housing of the electrical socket device or smart socket device. This allows for easy integration of safety functions in locations where conventional sockets are already provided, without the need to completely replace the conventional socket.

[0062] In a further aspect of the present invention, a firefighter helmet is provided comprising an integrated visor, a battery pack, and a communication link that provide augmented reality functionality. Preferably, the communication link is configured to receive signals from a smart socket device as defined above, and the integrated visor is configured to display information in response to the received signals. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0063] Herein, embodiments of the present invention will be described merely as examples with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Figure 1A] This figure schematically shows a smart socket device according to the present invention in the form of either a main power socket faceplate or a safety module inserted into a conventional electrical socket device. [Figure 1B] This figure schematically shows a smart socket device according to the present invention in the form of either a main power socket faceplate or a safety module inserted into a conventional electrical socket device. [Figure 1C] This figure schematically shows a smart socket device according to the present invention in the form of either a main power socket faceplate or a safety module inserted into a conventional electrical socket device. [Figure 2A] This figure schematically shows a smart socket device according to the present invention in the form of either a main power socket faceplate or a safety module inserted into a conventional electrical socket device. [Figure 2B] This figure schematically shows a smart socket device according to the present invention in the form of either a main power socket faceplate or a safety module inserted into a conventional electrical socket device. [Figure 2C] This figure schematically shows a smart socket device according to the present invention in the form of either a main power socket faceplate or a safety module inserted into a conventional electrical socket device. [Figure 3A]This figure schematically shows a smart socket device according to the present invention in the form of a safety module inserted into a conventional smart socket device. [Figure 3B] This figure schematically shows the PCB of a safety module for insertion into a conventional smart socket device according to the present invention. [Figure 3C] This figure schematically shows the PCB of a safety module for insertion into a conventional smart socket device according to the present invention. [Figure 4] This figure schematically illustrates a remote device for an electrical safety system according to the present invention, including a firefighter's helmet. [Figure 5] This is a schematic diagram illustrating the electrical safety system according to the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0064] Figures 1A to 1C show a smart socket device 100 according to the present invention. The smart socket device 100 includes a socket 120 positioned behind a socket faceplate 140 and arranged to receive an electrical plug of an electrical appliance, a main current connector (not shown) for connecting to a main power cable, and a first PCB 130 having live and neutral conductors 131 arranged to allow current to flow through a conductor 131 between the main current connector and the electrical plug during use. The smart socket device 100 further includes a second PCB 110 having a thermal sensor 111 configured to detect the surface temperature of the electrical plug when it is received in the socket 120 of the smart socket device 100, the thermal sensor 111 being mounted on the second PCB 110.

[0065] The smart socket device 100 further includes a processor (located inside the device and not shown) configured to communicate with a thermal sensor 111 and determine when the detected surface temperature of the conductors 131 of the PCB 130 exceeds a predetermined threshold, and / or display specific fluctuation patterns associated with the risk of electrical faults. Since the thermal sensor 110 is configured to detect the surface temperature of the conductors 131 of the PCB 130, the smart socket device 100 enables early detection of hazardous conditions that could lead to a fire. In particular, a major cause of house fires is overheating due to electrical faults in electrical equipment. Such electrical faults can be determined at a very early stage by the rise in the surface temperature of the conductors 131 of the PCB 130, and by monitoring this parameter, electrical faults can be detected within the smart socket device before they escalate.

[0066] The smart socket device 100 further includes a communication link configured to communicate with a remote device. The communication link preferably provides wireless communication capabilities to take various risk mitigation measures, including sending alerts to a user device such as a smartphone and turning off a mains power, water, or gas supply by communicating with one or more remote devices. As will be described in more detail below, multiple smart socket devices and remote devices can be connected to each other in a network to realize various functions for identifying potential hazards at an early stage, alerting users and emergency services, and autonomously taking various measures to address the hazard, or when instructed by the user via a connected smart user device.

[0067] The smart socket device 100 may further comprise various functions for providing various responses when the processor determines that the detected surface temperature of the conductor 131 of the PCB 130 exceeds a predetermined threshold. Specifically, the device 100 may further include an internal alarm device for providing a warning when the surface temperature of the conductor on the PCB exceeds a predetermined threshold, indicating a risk of fire. The device 100 may include one or more relay switches for stopping the flow of current to equipment through the smart socket device 100. Furthermore, the smart socket device 100 may comprise several additional sensors for detecting the presence of a hazard.

[0068] The smart socket device 100 can provide various functions associated with commercially available smart sockets. For example, the first PCB 130 may include a relay that enables remote control of the smart socket, allowing remote turning off and on of current supply to equipment plugged into the socket by a user operating a connected user device or via a programmable timer. The first PCB 130, also referred to as a "power board", may further comprise a sensor for measuring the power supplied to equipment plugged into the smart socket device 100, for example, a current sensor provided on the first PCB 130. To provide this functionality, conventional smart sockets include a PCB having some form of conductor through which the mains power is connected to equipment plugged into the outlet. The present invention utilizes this conductor as a means for detecting the presence of an electrical fault in equipment plugged into the smart socket. In particular, the inventors have confirmed that an increase in the temperature of the conductor on the PCB of the smart socket allows an electrical fault in the equipment to be recognized at an early stage, and an appropriately configured thermal sensor can identify a potential hazard at an early stage.

[0069] <PCB conductor> As described above, the conductor 131 of the first PCB 130 of the smart socket device 100 is positioned so that current flows to the electrical plug through the conductor between the current connectors during use. In the example shown in Figures 1A to 1C, the conductor 131 is a spring connector positioned so as to maintain contact with the pins of the electrical plug when inserted into the socket by the restoring force of the spring connector. Similarly, other electrical connectors such as spade connectors, ring connectors, bullet connectors, and screw terminals may be provided as the conductor 131 of the PCB 130. The conductor 131 may be made of a metal with high conductivity, such as an alloy of silver, copper, gold, platinum, and palladium.

[0070] The conductor 131 generally includes a planar portion of the conductor arranged on the plane of the PCB 130. Specifically, the first PCB 130 is positioned such that a first face of the PCB is adjacent to the underside of the socket faceplate 140, and a second face opposite to the first face of the PCB faces away from the faceplate 140. The conductor 131 has a planar portion of conductive material on the second face of the PCB 130, providing an area to which the thermal sensor 111 can be directed. In this way, a compact and effective arrangement can be achieved by providing the thermal sensor 111 on a second PCB 110 ("thermopile array board") substantially parallel to the first PCB 130, with the thermal sensor 111 positioned to face the planar portion of the conductor 131 on the second face of the first PCB 130. In the example of Figures 1A to 1C, the conductor 131 includes a spring connector arranged to receive the pins of an electrical plug and a planar portion on the second face of the PCB 130.

[0071] Figures 1A to 1C show one pair of conductors 131 for each of the live current path and the neutral current path, but a single conductor 131 for either the live current path or the neutral current path may be exposed on the surface of the PCB 130, or three conductors 131, one for each of the live current path, the neutral current path, and the earth current path, may be exposed on the surface of the PCB 130. Each conductor provided is positioned to make electrical contact with the corresponding live, neutral, or earth pin of the electrical plug when plugged into the socket 120.

[0072] The thermal sensor 111 detects the surface temperature of one or more provided conductors 131 connected to the socket 120, or multiple thermal sensors can be provided for each socket 120, 111, and if multiple conductors are exposed on the surface of the PCB 130, each thermal sensor is configured to detect the surface temperature of an individual conductor 131.

[0073] Figures 2A to 2C show alternative arrangements of conductors on the PCB. The conductors 231 of the smart socket device 200 are conductive tracks extending across the plane of the PCB 230 and may be made of a highly conductive metal, as in the example above. In Figures 2A to 2C, three conductive tracks are shown extending across the plane of the PCB 230, each forming part of one of the live current path, neutral current path, and earth current path. Alternatively, one or a pair of tracks may be provided on the plane of the PCB 230, each forming part of one of the live, neutral, or earth current paths.

[0074] The thermal sensor 211 may measure the surface temperature of one or more provided conductors 231, or alternatively, multiple thermal sensors 211 may be provided, each configured to detect the surface temperature of an individual conductive track 231, with multiple conductors exposed on the surface of the PCB 230.

[0075] As shown in Figures 2A to 2C, the PCB 210, which includes the thermal sensor 211, and the PCB 230, which includes the conductive track 231, are positioned relative to each other such that the conductive track 231 is within the field of view of the thermal sensor 211. Figures 2A to 2C show the conductive track 231 positioned on the upward-facing surface of the PCB 230 and the thermal sensor 211 positioned on the downward-facing surface of the PCB 210, but the PCBs may be provided in any suitable orientation such that the PCB 210 and PCB 230 are positioned such that the thermal sensor on the PCB 210 faces the conductive track on the PCB 230, so that the conductive track is within the field of view of the thermal sensor 211.

[0076] The aforementioned conductors are completely enclosed within the smart socket device so that their live surfaces are not exposed to the outside when the smart socket device is in use.

[0077] Furthermore, both configurations ensure that the material and geometric shape of the temperature-measuring surface remain constant, regardless of what is plugged into the electrical equipment. This can improve the accuracy and consistency of surface temperature detection. For example, if the material of the conductive track 231 is known, the processor can adjust the thermal sensor 211 using appropriate physical properties of the conductive material, such as its emissivity, to provide more accurate surface temperature detection.

[0078] <Thermal sensor> The thermal sensor 111 is provided by an infrared sensor configured to detect absolute temperature by measuring emitted infrared radiation. The calculated temperature is then based on the known or assumed emissivity of the target surface.

[0079] The thermal sensor 111 may be, for example, a pyrometer configured to detect the absolute temperature of a point on the surface of a conductor 131 of the PCB 130, or the thermal sensor 111 may be an infrared camera with an array of infrared detector pixels. The infrared array sensor may comprise an 8x8 grid array of thermopile elements that detect absolute temperature by measuring emitted infrared radiation. This infrared array sensor can provide a thermal image by measuring the actual temperature and temperature gradient, enabling highly precise measurement of surface temperature and identification of temperature changes. The infrared array sensor also preferably includes a lens to provide an increased field of view so that a wide area of ​​the conductor can be imaged even when the thermal sensor 111 is located at close range. The lens may comprise an integrated silicon lens that provides a field of view of about 60 degrees. The thermal sensor 111 is preferably configured to detect temperature changes over a range of -20°C to 100°C, enabling tracking of the surface temperature of the conductor 131 of the PCB 130 as it begins to heat up in the event of an electrical fault. The thermal sensor 111 may be, for example, a Panasonic Grid-EYE® sensor, and is generally used for motion detection, occupancy detection, people counting, and lighting control.

[0080] The thermal sensor 111 is configured to provide non-contact temperature measurement of the surface of the conductor 131 on the PCB 130 when the electrical equipment is connected to the socket 120. The use of non-contact thermal imaging allows for imaging of the conductor 131 as a whole, enabling the detection of temperature changes across the entire conductor rather than from a single point as required by contact measurement. In addition, contact measurement requires the contact temperature sensor to be positioned to maintain contact with the conductor 131. If the contact temperature sensor moves out of its designated position and loses contact with the conductor, accurate temperature measurement becomes impossible, and there is a risk that dangerous malfunctions of the electrical equipment will not be detected. Infrared array sensors also allow for more complex processing of the thermal images received by the sensor. For example, more advanced machine learning-based algorithms can be used to detect temperature change patterns that indicate high-risk failures in the equipment.

[0081] The thermal sensor 111 can be positioned in several different ways to achieve a reading of the surface temperature of the conductor 131 of the PCB 130. In Figures 1A to 1C, when the smart socket device 100 is viewed from the socket faceplate 140, the thermal sensor 111 is positioned on a second PCB 110 located behind the PCB 130. In particular, the thermal sensor 111 is positioned on the PCB 110 such that the conductor 131 of the PCB 130 is within the field of view of the thermal sensor 111. In this way, the thermal sensor 111 images the surface of the conductor 131 of the PCB 130. The thermal sensor 111 may be positioned similarly in a number of alternative positions to provide non-contact surface temperature measurement of the conductor 130 of the PCB 130 of the smart socket device 100.

[0082] In other examples not shown, the thermal sensor 111 may alternatively be configured to provide a contact measurement of the temperature of the conductor 131 of the PCB 130 during use. Examples of such thermal sensors include NTC thermistors, PTC thermistors, resistance temperature detectors (RTDs), thermocouples, and semiconductor-based sensors. In these examples, the temperature sensor 111 may be configured to contact the surface of the conductor 131 of the PCB 130 to measure the surface temperature, or it may be otherwise thermally coupled to the surface of the conductor 131 of the PCB 130.

[0083] The above description of the thermal sensor 111 can be equally applied to the thermal sensor 211 in Figures 2A to 2C and the thermal sensor 311 in Figures 3B and 3C.

[0084] <Faceplate for main power socket> The smart socket device 100 shown in Figures 1A to 1C may be provided as a mains socket faceplate configured to be mounted on an electrical connection point on a wall or other surface. The mains socket fascia in Figures 1A to 1C, like a conventional mains socket fascia, comprises a substantially flat body defined by a socket faceplate 140. The smart socket device 100 is configured to be placed in place of a conventional mains socket fascia at an electrical access point in a building to improve safety against the risk of fire and electrical faults. In the example in Figures 1A to 1C, the smart socket device 100 has two sockets 120, but other such smart socket devices may equally have a single socket 120 or more sockets 120. Similarly, although the device 100 in Figures 1A to 1C is in the form of a faceplate configured to be mounted on a wall or other surface, it may also be provided as a movable extension socket configured to be mounted on a mains socket via a cable. The smart socket device faceplate 140, like a conventional mains socket faceplate, includes a switch 141 for turning on the supply of current to the corresponding socket 120. When in use, the smart socket device faceplate 140 is mounted to the wall by screwing it into place using screws (not shown) in place of a conventional power socket faceplate. Electrical equipment is plugged into the socket 120 and power is supplied by switching the switch 141 to the ON position.

[0085] In device 100, the surface temperature of the conductor 131 of the PCB 130 is monitored by a thermal infrared sensor 111. When a specific temperature or temperature change is identified by a processor (not shown), device 100 can determine the presence of a potential risk and take several actions. The smart socket device 100 may first include an internal alarm device (not shown) configured to sound when a hazard is detected in order to warn inhabitants of the surrounding area.

[0086] Furthermore, the smart socket device 100 includes a communication link configured to communicate with one or more remote devices. In particular, the device 100 is configured to wirelessly communicate via the communication link to a user device such as a smartphone in order to warn the user of the presence of a potential electrical fault and to provide further information about the type of hazard detected and its location within the building.

[0087] The smart socket device 100 may include a reset switch (not shown) for resetting the device 100 or for silencing an alarm when it is sounding. The smart socket device 100 may further include a set of status LEDs to indicate to the user that the device 100 is functioning correctly. Specifically, the LEDs may indicate network connectivity, power to the device, and the status of the alarm sound. The set of LEDs may be provided on the surface of the housing 130 to provide the user with a visual warning. The smart socket device 100 may also be configured to communicate with other user devices, such as a smart TV, smartwatch, or other device, via a wireless communication link to indicate the presence of a potential hazard and provide details about the detected hazard.

[0088] The smart socket device 200 shown in Figures 2A to 2C may also be provided as a mains power socket fascia and may include any of the features of the smart socket 100 described above. The housing of the smart socket device 200 comprises a socket faceplate 140 and an outer casing 290 configured to house PCBs 230 and 210. The front half of the outer casing 290 includes a status LED 291 configured to perform the functions described above with respect to the smart socket device 100. The rear half of the outer casing comprises a mains current connector 260 for connection to a mains power cable 261. Preferably, the mains current connector 260 comprises one or more solderless terminals for each of the live, neutral, and earth cables 261. As shown in Figures 2A to 2C, the mains current connector 260 may comprise a three-way WAGO connector for each of the live, neutral, and earth main cables 261, allowing integration into a ring circuit and optional connection to a spar socket.

[0089] As described above, the conductor 231 of PCB 230 includes conductive tracks extending across the plane of PCB 230. PCB 230 further comprises a battery 232 so that the battery can power any provided sensors, processor 270, and communication links so that the smart socket device can continue to communicate with the remote device in the event of a power outage or a dangerous situation in which the mains power is intentionally shut down.

[0090] The PCB 210 further includes a processor 270 and a relay 280 configured to selectively control the current between the plug and the socket. If one of the onboard sensors detects a parameter indicating a potential hazard and / or fire, such as the sensed surface temperature of the conductor 231 exceeding a predetermined threshold, the device 200 automatically activates the relay 280 so that the electrical connection between the electrical equipment and the socket is interrupted. This ensures that when a potential hazard is perceived by the adapter, the power supply to potentially dangerous electrical equipment is immediately turned off. Furthermore, the relay 280 may be activated by receiving commands from a remote device via a communication link or based on data from a programmable timer in the smart socket device.

[0091] Similar to smart socket device 100, smart socket device 200 may include an internal alarm sounding device (not shown) configured to sound when a hazard is detected in order to warn residents in the surrounding area. Smart socket device 200 may also include a reset switch (not shown) for resetting device 200 or for silencing the alarm when it is sounding. <Additional sensors>

[0092] In addition to the thermal sensor 110, the smart socket device 100 may include several additional sensors for detecting the presence of a hazard. Similarly, the smart socket device 200 may include several additional sensors in addition to those shown in the embodiments provided in Figures 2A-2C.

[0093] Various additional sensors related to the smart socket device 200 are described below, but these additional sensors can also be implemented in other examples of smart socket devices, such as safety modules for insertion into the smart socket device 100 or electrical socket devices.

[0094] The exemplary smart socket device 200 shown in Figures 2A to 2C further comprises an ambient temperature and / or humidity sensor 212 which can be used to determine a predetermined threshold surface temperature (or temperature change behavior related to electrical faults) of the conductor 231 of the PCB 230 based on the measured local ambient temperature, and a current sensor 213 for monitoring the current supplied to an electrical device plugged into the smart socket device 200. The current sensor is located within the device to measure the current flowing through one or more electrical devices plugged into the smart socket device 200. The smart socket device 200 may further comprise one or more smoke and / or gas sensors configured to detect smoke and / or gas, preferably methane, in the vicinity of the device 200, from any electrical device connected to the smart socket device 200, or from, for example, a gas fireplace, boiler, or cooking appliance, and a carbon monoxide sensor configured to detect carbon monoxide in the vicinity of the smart socket device 200, for example, from a gas fireplace or boiler.

[0095] Each sensor is electrically connected to a processor 270 within the device 200, thereby enabling the processor 270 to determine whether any of the sensed parameters indicate a potential hazard. The processor 270 is configured to determine the presence of a potential hazard by identifying when the value of a sensed parameter exceeds a predetermined threshold. However, the presence of a hazard can also be identified using more complex processing, for example, by identifying the rate of change of a sensed parameter, or when the change in a sensed parameter exhibits specific behavior or patterns associated with an increased risk of a hazard. The processor 270 may also be configured to determine the presence of a hazard based on a combination of sensor outputs to more reliably identify risk. For example, the processor 270 can use more complex algorithms, such as machine learning-based algorithms that take outputs from multiple sensors to determine an increase in risk. For instance, in a situation where the current sensor and thermal sensor readings are lower than their corresponding individual thresholds, the combined behavior of the sensor readings signifies an increase in hazard, which can be detected earlier than with a single sensor. Similarly, an unusually high incidence of one or more parameters may indicate the presence of a hazard. The device 200 may include an internal memory for holding such sensor parameter data, and the processor 270 is configured to compare the received data with data indicating hazards held in memory to identify the presence of a hazard. The processor 270 may use more complex algorithms, such as machine learning algorithms, which can be trained to identify parameter changes associated with an increased risk of a potential hazard. For example, a machine learning algorithm may include a neural network (or support vector machine) that functions to receive data from the sensor as input, and once trained on a set of simulated hazards, can identify real hazards from combinations of inputs from the sensor using weights and thresholds that are not predetermined by the operator.In another example, a linear regression model may be used to identify changes in parameters over time in order to predict or estimate the level of risk.

[0096] The smart socket device 200 may also include a water sensor (not shown) configured to detect the presence of water in the vicinity of the device 200. In particular, the water sensor may comprise a water sensor body positioned on the ground beneath the smart socket device 200 to detect the collection of water on the surface beneath the device 200. The water sensor body is connected to the device by a water sensor connector. The connector may comprise a plug that is inserted into a corresponding socket on the side of the device to connect the water sensor to an internal processor 270, thereby allowing the processor 270 to receive a signal from the water sensor to identify the presence of water and alert the user using an alarm or wireless communication link to a user device. The presence of water can be a hazard in particular when there is an electrical fault in electrical equipment, and an additional water sensor may detect the presence of a leak from household electrical equipment or a main water supply to identify such a hazard.

[0097] In addition to providing alarms or sending alerts to remote devices such as smartphones, the smart socket device 200 can also take action automatically or when instructed by the user in response to detected hazards. In this way, the smart socket device 200 forms part of an electrical safety system that can detect hazards, warn the user, and take appropriate action to address the hazards. <Safety Module>

[0098] Figures 1A-1C and 2A-2C were described above as examples of smart socket devices, but they may similarly illustrate exemplary embodiments of safety modules for insertion into electrical socket devices according to the present invention, shown in combination with electrical socket devices. The safety module may be configured to provide hazard detection via measurement of conductors on a PCB, for insertion into conventional electrical sockets or for insertion into smart sockets. Since the safety module, when inserted into a conventional electrical socket device, can provide the same functionality as the smart socket device according to the present invention, the device resulting from retrofitting a safety module to an electrical socket device is referred to here as a smart socket device. The process of inserting such a safety module into an existing electrical socket device is referred here to as retrofitting a safety module to an electrical socket device.

[0099] Referring to Figures 1A to 1C, in one example, the safety module comprises a PCB 110 with any components located thereon, and is configured to be inserted into a conventional smart socket device in which a first PCB (power board) 130 already exists. Thus, in this example, the electrical socket device may provide, for example, a socket faceplate 140, a PCB 130 (used to provide conventional smart socket functionality), and an optional back box (not shown). The safety module is retrofitted to the electrical smart socket device, with the PCB 110 positioned so that the live and neutral conductors 131 of each socket of the electrical socket device (shown on the PCB 130 present in the smart socket) are within the field of view of the thermal sensor 111.

[0100] In other examples, the safety module may be configured for insertion into a conventional (non-smart) socket that does not include a PCB 130 for providing functions such as on / off switching via relays and current monitoring. In these examples, the safety module includes both a first PCB (power board) 130 containing conductors for conducting mains power to the electrical equipment when connected, and a second PCB (thermal sensor board) 110 containing thermal sensors for detecting the temperature of the conductors 131 of the first PCB.

[0101] Referring to Figures 2A to 2C, in another example, the safety module comprises an outer casing 290 and any components on or inside the outer casing 290. In this case as well, the electrical socket device may provide, for example, a socket faceplate 140 and an optional back box (not shown). In this example, an existing mains power cable from a conventional electrical socket device may be disconnected from the socket faceplate and reconnected to a mains current connector 260 on the rear half of the outer casing 290. The cable is then connected between the conductive track 231 and the socket 120 of the socket faceplate 140 to reconnect the socket 120 to the mains power.

[0102] Figure 3A shows an exemplary smart socket device 300 according to the present invention, in which a safety module according to the present invention is retrofitted to a smart socket device. In this example, the safety module comprises PCBs 310 and 350, and the smart socket device comprises a socket faceplate 340, PCB 330, a rear housing 390, and a back box 391. In this example, the existing socket already implements several “smart” functions, such as providing an electrical socket, a processor, and a relay configured to connect and disconnect a communication link on PCB 330, so that the relay can be controlled from a remote device such as a smartphone. By retrofitting PCBs 310 and 350 to a conventional smart socket device, the resulting device can sense the presence of a wider range of hazards and more reliably identify specific hazards.

[0103] Figure 3B shows PCB 350 in more detail. PCB 350 includes a temperature and / or humidity sensor 312, a carbon monoxide and / or methane gas sensor 314, and a smoke sensor 315. PCB 310, shown in Figure 3C, includes a thermal sensor 311, a temperature / humidity sensor 312, a current sensor 313, and a processor (not shown) configured to receive data from the provided sensors. Sensors located on PCB 350 can be communicatively coupled to PCB 310 via one or more cables so that sensors located on PCB 350 can communicate with a processor located on PCB 310. The above sensors can perform the same functions as described above with respect to smart socket devices 100 and 200. In addition to the sensors shown in Figures 3A to 3C, the safety module may further include any of the additional sensors or alert functions described above in relation to smart socket devices 100 and 200.

[0104] The safety module according to the present invention may be retrofitted across multiple conventional sockets located within a room or building to form a component of an electrical safety system capable of detecting hazards, warning the user, and taking appropriate action to address the hazard. <Firefighter helmet>

[0105] Figure 4 schematically shows an exemplary firefighter helmet 400 according to one aspect of the present invention. The helmet 400 comprises a visor 410 that provides integrated augmented reality functionality, a battery pack 420 that supplies power to the helmet, and a communication link 430. The helmet 400 may optionally include an integrated positioning module (not shown), such as a GNSS receiver.

[0106] The augmented reality capabilities of the Visor 410 allow the helmet wearer to display information overlaid on the physical world that can improve their knowledge and efficiency when dealing with amplified hazards such as fires. In response to receiving a signal from a smart socket device that a hazard is present and a fire team is needed, the augmented reality Visor can provide the wearer with information regarding the current status of the hazard and real-time communications via the control panel visualization 411. This may include, for example, the type of hazard, the time the hazard was identified, and what actions have already been taken to act on the hazard.

[0107] Furthermore, a 3D mapping 412 of the building where the hazard is located is displayed, indicating its location within the building. Further details about this 3D mapping are described below as part of the electrical safety system. The visualization 412 may also allow the wearer to identify their own position within the 3D mapping and to direct the wearer toward the source of the hazard.

[0108] Furthermore, the visualization 413 can provide the wearer with digital markers / symbols to inform them, for example, the direction in which they should move to reach the hazard source, and the nearest blocked path between themselves and the hazard source. <Electrical Safety System>

[0109] An electrical safety system according to the present invention may include at least one smart socket device according to the present invention and may include a plurality of smart socket devices according to the present invention that communicate with each other. The electrical safety system may also include one or more additional remote devices that communicate with at least one smart socket device via a communication link. One or more smart socket devices may be configured, for example, to send a signal to the remote device using the communication link when a processor determines that the surface temperature of a PCB conductor exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0110] Figure 5 shows an exemplary electrical safety system 1000 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The electrical safety system 1000 includes one or more smart socket devices 100 / 200 / 300, one or more smart socket devices according to the present invention embodied as a plug-in adapter 500, and a remote device, the remote device including one or more fire safety helmets 400 according to the present invention, one or more smart hubs 500, one or more smart hubs 600, one or more isolation units 700, one or more smart user devices 800, one or more dynamic signs 900, one or more speakers 950, and one or more voice assistant alarms 1200.

[0111] Each device of the electrical safety system 1000 is provided with a communication link so that it can communicate with each other via wireless connections, such as wireless narrowband frequencies, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, mobile carrier networks, and the OpenThread mesh networking protocol. Instead of, or in addition to, wireless communication, communication may also be performed using optical or other wired communication networks, preferably Ethernet or power line communication (PLC). Preferably, the devices of the electrical safety system 1000 can communicate via two communication channels so that different types of networks provide fail-safes. In this example, remote devices can communicate with each other and with smart socket devices via Wi-Fi 601 and / or mesh network 602. Mesh network 602 may comprise, for example, a wireless mesh network communicating over 868 MHz. Preferably, mesh network 602 includes a mesh network communicating via the OpenThread mesh networking protocol. By providing two communication networks, if one network goes down, data from thermal sensors placed throughout the building can still be communicated so that the location of fire hazards and the location of building occupants can be determined. In Figure 5, the lines connecting the smart socket devices 100 / 200 / 300, smart socket device 500, smart hub 600, and isolation unit 700 represent a mesh network in which each device can communicate independently of the others.

[0112] The connectivity of each remote device within the local network may be managed by a smart hub 600 connected to a central router (not shown) within the building. The smart hub 600 itself may include one or more thermal sensors. In a preferred embodiment, the smart hub 600 is integrated into a device having further sensing capabilities. Typically, the smart hub 600 is integrated into a ceiling-mounted unit, as described in UK Patent No. 2015243.5.

[0113] The devices of the electrical safety system 1000 communicate locally with each other, so that they can quickly initiate alarms or other safety notifications in response to detected hazards. For example, if a thermal sensor located within a smart socket device 100 / 200 / 300, 500 detects a localized rise in the surface temperature of a PCB conductor indicating the presence of an electrical fault, this information can be communicated to other safety devices in the building via local Wi-Fi 601 and / or mesh network 602. In response, additional smart socket devices 100 / 200 / 300, 500 provided in the electrical safety system 1000 can activate an integrated alarm system to warn residents of a fire hazard and / or locally power off at the location of the smart socket devices 100 / 200 / 300, 500.

[0114] The isolation unit 700 can be configured to be installed in a main power source, such as a main water supply, main power circuit unit, header water tank, or gas supply pipe. The location of the isolation unit is typically pre-configured within the building. In response to the identification of a fire hazard by one or more sensors in the system, a signal may be transmitted to the isolation unit via a Wi-Fi / mesh network to shut off the gas, electricity, or water supply to the building, significantly minimizing the risk of secondary fire, explosion, or electrical hazard (for example, if a large water leak affects an energized electrical device or circuit).

[0115] The smart socket devices 100 / 200 / 300, 500 and the isolation units 700 may each be assigned to a group, and the grouping may be based on the location of the devices, for example, especially when the electrical safety system 1000 is deployed across a multi-unit building. For example, the electrical safety system 1000 may comprise a plurality of smart socket devices 100 / 200 / 300, 500 arranged across several flats within a building, and a plurality of mains isolation units 700 configured to restrict the mains power to each flat within the building. The smart socket devices 100 / 200 / 300, 500 can be grouped based on which flats they are located in, and the isolation units 700 can be grouped based on which flats they can restrict the mains power to. If a first smart socket device 100 / 200 / 300, 500 located in a first flat determines that the detected surface temperature of a conductor exceeds a predetermined threshold, the first smart socket device 100 / 200 / 300, 500 can use grouping to identify which other smart socket devices 100 / 200 / 300, 500 are located in the first flat, and optionally in adjacent flats. Furthermore, the first smart socket device 100 / 200 / 300, 500 can also use grouping to identify one or more isolation units 700 that can restrict the mains power supply to the first flat and optionally adjacent flats. The first smart socket devices 100 / 200 / 300, 500 then automatically transmit signals to other identified smart socket devices 100 / 200 / 300, 500 and isolation unit 700, which can, for example, disconnect the sockets of the smart socket devices via the provided relays and / or restrict one or more main power sources from gas, water, and electricity.

[0116] In addition to the processing performed by the smart socket devices 100 / 200 / 300, 500 of the electrical safety system 1000, data acquired by the sensors of the electrical safety system 1000 may be further processed by a system processing unit 1100, which in this example is remotely hosted in a cloud system. However, in other embodiments, the processing unit 1100 may be locally located within the building. Sensor data may be transmitted from the smart hub 600 to the processing unit 1100 via the internet through a router. In other words, data from each sensor in the local network may first be sent to the smart hub, which then communicates with the processing unit. The system processor 1100 is configured to analyze the data obtained from the sensors of the electrical safety system and determine the location of a hazard or potential hazard. For example, if data from a smart socket device located in the living room of a flat on the first floor of a building indicates a localized temperature rise that suggests the presence or risk of fire, it can be inferred that the location of the fire is within the living room of that flat. Data from sensors in other smart sockets 100 / 200 / 300, 500, and isolation unit 700 located within the flat can also be analyzed to confirm such conclusions.

[0117] The processing unit 1100 may be communicably coupled to a memory that may be a “cloud” memory that stores, for example, information about devices within the electrical safety system 1000 and the building layout in which the local devices of the electrical safety system are located. The building layout data may include a three-dimensional (3D) mapping of locations within the building and may also indicate the locations of the smart socket devices 100 / 200 / 300, 500 and the isolation unit 700.

[0118] If hazards such as fire increase, the processing unit 1100 can combine this building layout data with the locations of hazards in the mesh network identified by the smart socket devices 100 / 200 / 300, 500, and the locations of further smart socket devices 100 / 200 / 300, 500 to create a 3D mapping showing the locations of hazards within the electrical safety system 1000. For example, if a first smart socket device 100 / 200 / 300, 500 located in a first flat of a multi-unit building determines that the detected surface temperature of a conductor exceeds a predetermined threshold, the first smart socket device 100 / 200 / 300, 500 can transmit a signal to the processing unit 1100 of the electrical safety system 1000. The processing unit 1100 can then analyze the data transmitted by the first smart sockets 100 / 200 / 300, 500 to determine the location of the hazard (e.g., which flat is the hazard). The processing unit 1100 can then retrieve the building layout located in the memory to which the local devices of the electrical safety system 1000 are communicably coupled, and then use the hazard locations and building layout to generate a 3D map of the building indicating the hazard locations. Alternatively, the 3D map of the building layout may be generated by the processing unit 1100 based on the locations of the smart socket devices 100 / 200 / 300, 500 in the mesh network within the building. In the event of increased hazards such as fire, this mapping allows emergency services to act more efficiently when they arrive on the scene and enables residents to evacuate safely.

[0119] A particular advantage is that authorized users, such as building managers and fire and emergency services, can access data transmitted to the processing unit 1100 or stored in a communicably coupled memory via secure access to a cloud server, thereby viewing hazard conditions in real time or near real time from their own devices. Using this information, emergency services can focus their efforts on areas where specific assistance is needed, ensuring both improved safety for building occupants and improved safety for emergency service personnel themselves.

[0120] Data processed by the processor 1100 may be communicated to one or more additional remote devices via a communication link such as the Internet. Specific remote devices may include a smartphone 800, a fire helmet 400, a dynamic sign 900, a speaker 950, and a voice assistant alarm 1200. The smartphone (or other smart user device) may run an app that allows the user to receive alerts and notifications from the system processor 1100 (e.g., via a cloud server through a communication link such as the Internet) indicating the location of identified hazards, and to execute commands on what to do next. A smart user device, such as the smartphone 800 or other smart device, may run one or two forms of software, or “apps”: (1) a user app (for residents) and (2) a responder app (for emergency services and construction authorities). The smartphone 800 may run app (1) or (2) that allows the user to manage the system and receive alerts. In particular, when a hazard is detected, the smart socket device can send a signal to a smart user device, and the app (1) or (2) can provide information about the hazard, such as that a fire has been detected, the location of the fire, and options for the user to deal with the fire, for example, by sending a signal to the isolation unit 700 to shut off the main power.

[0121] The processing unit 1100 may, for example, receive location information from the smartphone 800 to guide the user out of the building. In some examples, the system processor may also control the behavior of the smartphone to switch on the "flashlight" function of the smartphone if, for example, the main power supply in the building is turned off.

[0122] If the connection between the communication hub and the cloud (1100) is lost, the electrical safety device can link to any smart device with the “app” installed (via WiFi, Bluetooth, or other “localized” communication means) to provide the same functionality as if the connection to the cloud had not failed. In this scenario, the smart devices form part of a mesh network (at least temporarily).

[0123] Building layout data can be accessed by evacuees for evacuation purposes and by emergency services for emergency response. This data is typically stored in the cloud and accessed using appropriate user permissions and identity management. This data can also be provided to local hospitals, for example, to notify them of potential emergency hospitalizations and to prepare for those hospitalizations. This information may be accessed by firefighters working inside the building during a fire. In this scenario, the system acts as an enhanced “monitoring officer,” enabling fire commanders and firefighters at the scene to understand the fire situation as accurately as possible while minimizing their own risk.

[0124] The electrical safety system includes a communication device for communicating data to the building's occupants. This may take the form of one or more optical indicators 900 placed throughout the building. For example, upon receiving a signal from a smart socket device 100 / 200 / 300, 500, the optical indicators can be activated to display information to the building's occupants. The optical indicators may also take the form of dynamic signage 900 with configurable displays placed on walls throughout the building's common areas. When there is no fire risk, these signs may be displayed blank. However, in response to a fire hazard being identified by a smart socket device 100 / 200 / 300, 500, the signs may be illuminated (e.g., by integrated LEDs) to indicate a status update or command (e.g., a format or arrow, a symbol or text) to safely guide occupants out of the building.

[0125] In place of, or in addition to, the dynamic signage 900, the electrical safety system 1000 may include a communication device in the form of one or more speakers 950. The speakers may be configured to sound an alarm and / or announcement in response to receiving a signal from the smart socket devices 100 / 200 / 300, 500.

[0126] The dynamic signage 900 and speaker 950 each have a wireless communication link for receiving signals transmitted from the processor 1100, for example, via the internet, thereby enabling the optical indicator 900 and / or speaker 950 to operate.

[0127] The electrical safety system 1000 may further include a voice assistant alarm 1200, which is configured to notify the user when it receives a signal from a smart socket device 100 / 200 / 300, 500. The voice assistant alarm may be configured to provide one or more of the following: information about the type and location of a hazard, options for responding (e.g., emergency telephone service, activation of isolation device 700), or information on how to safely exit the building to avoid the hazard. The voice assistant alarm includes a wireless communication link for receiving signals transmitted from a processor 1100, for example, via the Internet.

[0128] Figure 5 shows that the dynamic signage 900, speaker 950, and voice assistant alarm 1200 can communicate indirectly with smart socket devices 100 / 200 / 300, 500 via the smart hub 600 and processor 1100, but they can also form part of a local mesh network, and their functions can be activated directly when they receive signals from smart socket devices 100 / 200 / 300, 500 within the local mesh network.

Claims

1. A socket installed to accept the electrical plug of an electrical device, A main current connector for connecting to the main current supply cable, A PCB comprising a conductor arranged so that current flows through the conductor between the main current connector and the electrical plug during use, A thermal sensor configured to detect changes in the temperature of the conductor of the PCB, A processor configured to communicate with the thermal sensor and determine whether the detected temperature of the conductor of the PCB exhibits behavior indicating a potential electrical hazard, A smart socket device, including a communication link configured to communicate with a remote device.

2. The smart socket device according to claim 1, wherein the thermal sensor is configured to provide non-contact measurement of the temperature of the conductor of the PCB during use.

3. The smart socket device according to claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to determine whether the detected temperature of the conductor exceeds a predetermined threshold.

4. The smart socket device according to claim 1, wherein the heat sensor is an infrared sensor.

5. A first PCB on which the aforementioned conductor is mounted, The smart socket device according to claim 1, further comprising a second PCB which includes the thermal sensor and is disposed adjacent to the first PCB.

6. The smart socket device according to claim 5, wherein the first PCB includes a relay for disconnecting the supply of main power to a device plugged into the socket.

7. The smart socket device according to claim 5, wherein the first PCB includes a current sensor for measuring the current flowing through the conductor.

8. The smart socket device according to claim 1, wherein the conductor comprises a conductive track extending across the surface of the PCB, and the thermal sensor is positioned to face the conductive track.

9. A first PCB, wherein the conductive track is disposed on the surface of the first PCB, A second PCB comprising the thermal sensor, wherein the first and second PCBs are arranged such that the thermal sensor of the second PCB faces the conductive track of the first PCB, A smart socket device according to claim 8, including the following:

10. The smart socket device according to claim 9, wherein the first PCB is positioned between the socket and the second PCB, and the first PCB has a first surface facing the socket and a second opposing surface facing the second PCB, and the conductive track is positioned on the second opposing surface.

11. The smart socket device according to claim 1, further comprising a connector configured such that the conductor contacts the pins of the electrical plug when received in the socket.

12. The socket is configured to receive a plug having live pins and neutral pins, and the PCB is, A live conductor configured to conduct current between the live main wire and the live pin, A neutral conductor configured to conduct current between the main neutral wire and the neutral pin, The smart socket device according to claim 1, wherein the thermal sensor is configured to measure the temperature of the live conductor and / or the neutral conductor.

13. The smart socket device according to claim 12, comprising a first thermal sensor configured to measure the temperature of the live conductor and a second thermal sensor configured to measure the temperature of the neutral conductor.

14. The smart socket device according to claim 1, further comprising an ambient temperature sensor configured to measure the ambient temperature near the smart socket device.

15. The processor further comprises a relay configured to connect and disconnect the electrical plug from the main current connector, Receiving commands from a remote device via a communication link, The detected surface temperature exceeds the threshold, The smart socket device according to claim 1, configured to control the relay in response to one or more data from a programmable timer within the smart socket device.

16. The smart socket device according to claim 1, further comprising a current sensor configured to detect the current passing through the conductor of the PCB, wherein the processor is configured to determine the presence of an electrical fault based on a combination of data received from the current sensor and data received from the thermal sensor.

17. The smart socket device according to claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to determine whether the detected rate of change in temperature exhibits a specific behavior.

18. A smart socket device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, Equipped with one or more remote devices, An electrical safety system in which the smart socket device is configured to send a signal to the remote device using the communication link when the processor determines that the detected temperature of the conductor on the PCB exhibits behavior indicating a potential electrical hazard.

19. The electrical safety system according to claim 18, wherein the electrical safety system comprises one or more smart socket devices and one or more remote devices, and the smart socket devices and the remote devices form a mesh network on which the smart socket devices and the remote devices can communicate.

20. The electrical safety system according to claim 19, wherein the smart socket device and the remote device are configured to communicate in accordance with the OpenThread network protocol.

21. The electrical safety system according to claim 18, wherein at least one remote device comprises a smart user device, the smart user device is configured to provide an audible or visual alert after receiving a signal from the smart socket device.

22. The electrical safety system according to claim 18, wherein at least one remote device comprises a dynamic sign having a configurable display, the dynamic sign being configured to receive a signal from a smart socket and to display information on the configurable display accordingly.

23. The electrical safety system according to claim 18, wherein at least one remote device comprises an isolation unit having a communication link, and the isolation unit is configured to restrict the flow of water, gas, or electricity through the isolation unit when it receives a signal from the smart socket device.

24. The electrical safety system according to claim 23, wherein at least one remote device comprises a smart user device, the smart user device is configured to transmit a signal to the isolation unit in order to remotely control the isolation unit after receiving a signal from a smart socket device.

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