Remotely controllable flush-type sprinkler control system and sprinkler actuator

Abstract

A remotely controllable ceiling-embedded sprinkler control system and a sprinkler driving device are disclosed. A ceiling-embedded sprinkler control system according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a fire detector for detecting the occurrence of a fire in a protected area; a monitoring control panel for receiving a fire occurrence signal from the fire detector; a head control unit that opens a sprinkler head according to an operation request signal transmitted from the monitoring control panel, performs operation control based on the characteristics of the thermal element of the sprinkler head, and determines whether to open the sprinkler head based on a change in the electrical state of the sprinkler head; a sprinkler head for spraying fire extinguishing water into the protected area when a fire occurs; and a head driving unit formed integrally with the sprinkler head, which heats the thermal element through an electrical heating means according to the opening request signal of the head control unit to open the sprinkler head, and transmits a change in the electrical state resulting from the opening of the sprinkler head to the head control unit.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The disclosed embodiments relate to a remotely controllable ceiling-mounted sprinkler control system and a sprinkler driving device. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, most buildings are equipped with fire-fighting sprinkler systems. Sprinkler heads are placed at regular intervals on ceilings or walls and open to spray water when a heat-sensitive element heats up to a certain temperature. These sprinkler heads include fusible link type and glass bulb type; among these, those installed embedded in the ceiling for aesthetic purposes may be flush-type sprinklers.

[0003] Conventional ceiling-mounted sprinklers only open when a heat-sensitive element melts at a specific temperature; consequently, the delay in heat transfer speed during a fire can delay initial fire suppression. Furthermore, conventional ceiling-mounted sprinklers cannot selectively open specific sprinklers within a protected area remotely, nor may they allow for remote verification of whether the sprinklers are open. Consequently, automatic operation linked with fire detectors or real-time monitoring via central control is impossible, which may compromise the speed and reliability of fire response.

[0004] Furthermore, some technologies propose a method of directly attaching a heating element to the surface of a glass bulb to break it; however, this limits the contact area of ​​the heating element, which can lead to reduced heat transfer efficiency and distortion of the inherent operating temperature of the heat-sensitive element. Consequently, there may be limitations where the sprinkler head loses its original passive operating characteristics or experiences a delayed response.

[0005] The aforementioned sprinkler system may have limitations in initial response due to the inability to remotely control it, the inability to verify whether the sprinkler head is open, and heat transfer delays. Prior art literature

[0006] Korean Patent Publication No. 10-1656491 (September 9, 2016) The problem to be solved

[0007] The disclosed embodiments aim to provide a remotely controllable ceiling-mounted sprinkler control system and a sprinkler driving device for providing individual control, group control, and open / close determination functions for a remotely controllable ceiling-mounted (flush-type) sprinkler head.

[0008] In addition, the disclosed embodiments aim to provide a remotely controllable ceiling-mounted sprinkler control system and a sprinkler driving device that remotely control the opening operation of a sprinkler head, remotely determine whether the sprinkler head is open, and manage the status of a plurality of sprinkler heads in real time through a central control unit or a monitoring unit. means of solving the problem

[0009] A ceiling-embedded sprinkler control system according to one embodiment comprises: a fire detector for detecting the occurrence of a fire in a protected area; a monitoring control panel for receiving a fire occurrence signal from the fire detector; a head control unit that opens a sprinkler head according to an operation request signal transmitted from the monitoring control panel, performs operation control based on the characteristics of a thermal element of the sprinkler head, and determines whether to open the sprinkler head based on a change in the electrical state of the sprinkler head; a sprinkler head for spraying fire extinguishing water into the protected area when a fire occurs; and a head driving unit formed integrally with the sprinkler head, which heats the thermal element through an electrical heating means according to the opening request signal of the head control unit to open the sprinkler head, and transmits the change in the electrical state resulting from the opening of the sprinkler head to the head control unit, wherein each of the fire detector, the monitoring control panel, the head control unit, and the head driving unit is equipped with a wired communication function or a wireless communication function, and the sprinkler head is a ceiling-embedded type.

[0010] The head control unit above can transmit the result of determining whether the sprinkler head is open to the monitoring control panel and other head control units.

[0011] The head driving unit is positioned on the outer surface of the sprinkler head and heats a heat-sensing element by an electrical heating method to open the sprinkler head, and when the sprinkler head is opened, it can transmit a change in the electrical state resulting from the interruption of the electrical connection to the head control unit.

[0012] The sprinkler head comprises: a body coupled to a fire extinguishing water pipe for a sprinkler that supplies fire extinguishing water, and including a water outlet in the form of a through hole; a frame formed to protrude from the other part of the body by screw coupling to the inner surface of the body, formed in the form of a through hole penetrating a part and the other part, and having a lead wire groove formed on a part of the outer surface; an inner loading plate formed such that a cylinder contacts a part of a circular plate shape, and a through hole penetrating the other part is formed from the part and arranged to be inserted into the through hole of the frame; an outer loading plate formed in a shape corresponding to the inner loading plate and arranged to be inserted in a certain direction from the other part of the outer loading plate; a retaining ring made of an elastic material in the form of a flat ring with a ring shape having a part of the connection cut off, formed such that one surface contacts the inner loading plate and the other surface contacts the outer loading plate; a heat collector formed on the other part of the outer loading plate to detect fire; and a heat-sensitive element disposed on the other part of the heat collector that melts upon the occurrence of a fire. It includes a locking screw that supports the other part of the thermal element, and the lead wire groove may be formed to accommodate electrical wiring for power supply for the operation of the head drive unit and for transmitting a signal determining whether the sprinkler head is open.

[0013] The head driving unit may include an insulating ring, an inner ring contact, an outer ring contact, a heating resistor, and an insulating cap inserted into the outer diameter surface of the outer loading plate.

[0014] The head driving unit comprises: an inner ring contact formed in the shape of a ring-shaped flat ring and including a first-1 printed circuit pattern and a second-1 printed circuit pattern divided and arranged opposite each other on an inner diameter surface; and an outer ring contact formed in the shape of a ring-shaped flat ring and including a first-2 printed circuit pattern electrically connected to the first-1 printed circuit pattern and a second-2 printed circuit pattern electrically connected to the second-1 printed circuit pattern, divided and arranged opposite each other on an outer diameter surface, and can transmit an electrical state change including a resistance change occurring as the inner ring contact and the outer ring contact are separated from each other to the head control unit.

[0015] The above heating resistor has an outer surface coated with an insulating material comprising at least one of an insulating resin and an enamel material, and is arranged in a circular winding shape on the outer surface of an external loading plate, so that it can heat the heat-sensing element according to the application of voltage during operation.

[0016] The sprinkler head and the head driving unit each comprise a plurality of units, and the head control unit is connected to the plurality of head driving units and, in accordance with the operation request signal transmitted from the monitoring control panel, opens the plurality of sprinkler heads individually or in groups, adjusts the operation based on the thermal characteristics of the plurality of sprinkler heads, and determines whether to open each of the sprinkler heads based on the change in the electrical state of each of the plurality of sprinkler heads, and the plurality of head driving units can heat the thermal elements through the electrical heating means of each of the plurality of sprinkler heads according to the control of the head control unit.

[0017] The head control unit can operate each of the plurality of sprinkler heads individually, or operate them by grouping them according to at least one of the order of protected zones, the order of arrangement, and the control logic, and can individually determine whether each of the plurality of sprinkler heads is open and transmit the result to the monitoring control panel.

[0018] The head control unit may include a current detection unit for determining whether the sprinkler head is open based on an electrical state change transmitted according to the opening of the sprinkler head.

[0019] A sprinkler driving device according to another embodiment comprises: an insulating ring formed in a ring shape, the outer diameter being a size corresponding to the inner diameter of an inner ring contact and the inner diameter being a size corresponding to the inner diameter of an outer ring contact; an inner ring contact disposed on the other part of the insulating ring and formed in the shape of a ring-shaped flat ring, comprising a first-1 printed circuit pattern and a second-1 printed circuit pattern divided and disposed oppositely on the inner diameter surface; an outer ring contact disposed on the other part of the inner ring contact and formed in the shape of a ring-shaped flat ring, comprising a first-2 printed circuit pattern electrically connected to the first-1 printed circuit pattern divided and disposed oppositely on the outer diameter surface, and a second-2 printed circuit pattern electrically connected to the second-1 printed circuit pattern; and a heating resistor connected to the first-2 printed circuit pattern and the second-2 printed circuit pattern, which heats a thermal element of a sprinkler head upon voltage application to cause the sprinkler head to open. It includes a head driving unit composed of an insulating cap having a through hole formed therein so that the heating resistor is inserted at a position corresponding to the heating resistor, and the head driving unit is formed integrally with the sprinkler head.

[0020] The head driving unit can transmit the electrical state change occurring as the inner ring contact and the outer ring contact are separated from each other to the head control unit.

[0021] The above heating resistor has an outer surface coated with an insulating material comprising at least one of insulating resin and enamel material, and is arranged in a circular winding shape on the outer surface of the outer loading plate of the sprinkler head, so that it can heat the heat-sensing element according to the application of voltage during operation.

[0022] In addition to this, a computer program stored on a computer-readable storage medium for executing a method for implementing the disclosed embodiments may be further provided.

[0023] In addition to this, a computer-readable recording medium may be further provided for recording a computer program for executing a method for implementing the disclosed embodiments. Effects of the invention

[0025] According to the disclosed embodiments, sprinkler heads can be selectively opened individually or in groups when a fire occurs, allowing for a rapid and accurate initial response depending on the fire situation.

[0026] In addition, according to the disclosed embodiments, the opening status of each sprinkler head can be checked remotely in real time, enabling centralized monitoring and management.

[0027] In addition, according to the disclosed embodiments, since a remote control function can be performed in parallel while maintaining the physical properties of the heat-sensitive element, a composite sprinkler control system capable of both automatic and manual control can be implemented while maintaining compatibility with a general sprinkler control system. Consequently, the limitations of existing sprinkler control systems, such as field-dependent operation and inability to check the status, can be overcome, fire spread can be prevented in advance, and maintenance efficiency can be improved. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0029] FIG. 1 is a block diagram for roughly explaining the overall structure of a ceiling-mounted sprinkler control system according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining the head control unit of FIG. 1. FIGS. 3 and 4 are block diagrams illustrating the overall structure of a ceiling-mounted sprinkler control system according to another embodiment. FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a head control unit according to another embodiment. FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a sprinkler head and a sprinkler head driving unit according to one embodiment. FIGS. 7 and 8 are block diagrams for explaining the head drive unit of FIG. 6 in detail. FIG. 9 is a drawing for explaining the lead wire groove of a sprinkler head according to one embodiment. FIG. 10 is a simulation graph of the operating time relative to the temperature rise of a head drive unit according to one embodiment. FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a computing environment including a computing device according to one embodiment. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0030] Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The following detailed description is provided to facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the methods, apparatuses, and / or systems described herein. However, this is merely illustrative and the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0031] In describing the embodiments of the present invention, detailed descriptions of known technologies related to the present invention are omitted if it is determined that such detailed descriptions may unnecessarily obscure the essence of the invention. Furthermore, the terms described below are defined in consideration of their functions within the present invention, and these may vary depending on the intentions or practices of the user or operator. Therefore, such definitions should be based on the content throughout this specification. Terms used in the detailed description are intended merely to describe the embodiments of the present invention and should not be limiting in any way. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, expressions in the singular form include the meaning of the plural form. In this description, expressions such as "include" or "comprise" are intended to refer to certain characteristics, numbers, steps, actions, elements, parts thereof, or combinations thereof, and should not be interpreted to exclude the existence or possibility of one or more other characteristics, numbers, steps, actions, elements, parts thereof, or combinations thereof other than those described.

[0032] FIG. 1 is a block diagram for roughly explaining the overall structure of a ceiling-embedded sprinkler control system according to one embodiment.

[0033] Referring to FIG. 1, a ceiling-mounted (Flush Pendant) sprinkler control system (hereinafter referred to as the control system) (1000) may be configured to remotely operate the heads of fire extinguishing sprinkler equipment installed in a building for fire suppression. The control system (1000) may be equipped with a remote control function.

[0034] The above control system (1000) may include a ceiling-mounted sprinkler head (Flush Pendant Sprinkler Head) (hereinafter referred to as sprinkler head) (200), a sprinkler head controller (hereinafter referred to as head controller) (300), a sprinkler head actuator (hereinafter referred to as head actuator) (500), a monitoring and control panel (600), a fire monitoring server (700), and a fire detector (800). The components illustrated in FIG. 1 are not essential for implementing the control system (1000) according to the present disclosure, so the control system (1000) described in this specification may have more or fewer components than those listed above.

[0035] The components illustrated in FIG. 1 may be connected to each other so as to be communicable through a communication network (not shown). In some embodiments, the communication network may include the Internet, one or more local area networks, wire area networks, cellular networks, mobile networks, other types of networks, or a combination of these networks.

[0036] The sprinkler head (200) may be configured to spray fire extinguishing water into the protected area in the event of a fire. A detailed explanation thereof will be provided later.

[0037] The sprinkler head (200) of the present disclosure may be a flush-type.

[0038] The head control unit (300) may be configured to open the sprinkler head (200) according to an operation request signal transmitted from the monitoring control panel (600), perform operation control based on the characteristics of the thermal element (218) of the sprinkler head (200), and determine whether to open the sprinkler head (200) based on a change in the electrical state of the sprinkler head (200). The characteristics of the thermal element may include an operating temperature and an operating time, etc.

[0039] Specifically, when the head control unit (300) receives a control signal, such as an operation request signal from the monitoring control panel (600), it can operate the head drive unit (500) of the sprinkler head (200) to open the sprinkler head (200).

[0040] The head control unit (300) can transmit the result of determining whether the sprinkler head (200) is open to the monitoring control panel (600) and other head control units.

[0041] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the head driving unit (500) may be formed integrally with the sprinkler head (200) and may be configured to open the sprinkler head (200) by heating the heat-sensing body (218) through an electrical heating means in response to an opening request signal from the head control unit (300), and to transmit the electrical state change resulting from the opening of the sprinkler head (200) to the head control unit (300). The electrical state change may include a change in resistance value or a change in current value.

[0042] The head drive unit (500) is configured to control the opening of the sprinkler head (200) and to determine whether it is open remotely. It may be formed integrally with the sprinkler head (200) or included in the sprinkler head (200), but is not limited thereto.

[0043] The head drive unit (500) opens the sprinkler head (200) in accordance with the opening request signal of the head control unit (300), and when the sprinkler head (200) is opened, it detects the amount of current change in the circuit of the head drive unit (500) to determine whether the sprinkler head (200) is opened through the head control unit (300). At this time, the head control unit (30) can transmit the determination result to the monitoring control panel (600).

[0044] Specifically, the head driving unit (500) is positioned on the outer surface of the sprinkler head (200) and heats the heat-sensing element (218) by an electrical heating method to open the sprinkler head (200), and when the sprinkler head (200) is opened, it can transmit the electrical state change resulting from the interruption of the electrical connection to the head control unit (300).

[0045] There may be multiple head driving units (500). At this time, the multiple head driving units (500) can heat the heat-sensing body (218) through the electrical heating means of each of the multiple sprinkler heads (200) according to the control of the head control unit (3000). At this time, there may be multiple sprinkler heads (200).

[0046] The head drive unit (500) of the present disclosure, including the head drive unit (500) described above, may be implemented as a separate, independent sprinkler drive device (not shown). In this case, the sprinkler drive device includes the head drive unit and is connected via wired or wireless communication with other components of the control system (1000) to perform functions such as controlling the opening of the sprinkler head (200) to be implemented in the present disclosure and remotely determining whether it is open.

[0047] The head control unit (300) is connected to a plurality of head drive units (500) and, in accordance with an operation request signal transmitted from a monitoring control panel (600), opens a plurality of sprinkler heads (200) individually or in groups, and adjusts the operation based on the thermal characteristics of the plurality of sprinkler heads (200) and determines whether each of the sprinkler heads (200) is opened based on the change in the electrical state of each of the plurality of sprinkler heads (200).

[0048] The head control unit (300) and the head drive unit (500) are connected in a one-to-one (1:1) manner to control each sprinkler head (200), or connected in a one-to-many (1:n) manner so that one head control unit (300) can control multiple head drive units (500) individually or in groups.

[0049] Specifically, the head control unit (300) can operate each of the plurality of sprinkler heads (200) individually, or operate them by grouping them according to at least one of the order of protected zones, order of arrangement, control logic, and risk order based on the risk factor environment.

[0050] For example, referring to FIG. 3, the head control unit (300) can activate a plurality of sprinkler heads (200-1 to 200-n; 200) placed in each of the bedroom-1, bedroom-2, and living room in a preset order. At this time, the head control unit (300) can activate the sprinkler head (200) of the protected area where the fire occurred first, and then activate the sprinkler head (200) in order of the protected area closest to the protected area where the fire occurred. In addition, the head control unit (300) can activate the sprinkler head (200) by considering the hazardous environment of the protected area. This can be applied in the same way to other embodiments.

[0051] As another example, referring to FIG. 4, the head control unit (300) can first activate a plurality of sprinkler heads (200-11 to 200-1n; 200) in protected area #1, and then activate a plurality of sprinkler heads (200-21 to 200-2n; 200) in protected area #2. If a fire occurs in protected area #2, the head control unit (300) can first activate a plurality of sprinkler heads (200-21 to 200-2n; 200) in protected area #2, and then activate a plurality of sprinkler heads (200-11 to 200-1n; 200) in protected area #1. At this time, each head driving unit (500) is assigned a unique identification number, so the head control unit (300) can prioritize activating the sprinkler head closest to the area where the fire occurred among the plurality of sprinkler heads (200-21~200-2n; 200) in protected area #2, and then activate the sprinkler head (200) closest to the first activated sprinkler head. In addition, the head control unit (300) can activate the sprinkler head (200) by considering the hazardous environment of the protected area.

[0052] As another example, the head control unit (300) can simultaneously operate multiple sprinkler heads (200) corresponding to each of the multiple fire occurrence areas when there are multiple fire occurrence areas. In addition, the head control unit (300) can operate the sprinkler heads (200) by taking into account the hazardous environment of the protected area.

[0053] The head control unit (300) can individually determine whether each of the multiple sprinkler heads (200) is open and transmit the result to the monitoring control panel (600).

[0054] The head control unit (300) controls each of the sprinkler heads (200) and can adjust the operating time of the sprinkler heads (200) and determine whether to open them according to the operation request signal received from the monitoring control panel (600).

[0055] The monitoring control panel (600) may be configured to receive a fire occurrence signal from a fire detector (800).

[0056] The monitoring control panel (600) may be configured to be connected to a fire management server (700), and when a fire is detected through a fire detector (800), receive information about the fire occurrence area (fire occurrence protection zone) from the fire management server (700) and transmit a control signal to the head control unit (300) to operate the sprinkler head (200) in the fire occurrence area.

[0057] To this end, the fire detector (800) is assigned a unique identification number, so that the monitoring control panel (600) can relatively quickly identify the fire location where the fire occurred based on the unique identification number of the fire detector (800) transmitted along with fire occurrence detection information.

[0058] The monitoring control panel (600) can determine whether the sprinkler head (200) is open based on the signal received from the head control unit (300).

[0059] The head control unit (300) and the head drive unit (500) described above may be assigned a unique identification number (ID) for communication and control with the monitoring control panel (600).

[0060] The fire management server (700) is connected via wired or wireless communication with the fire detector (800) and the monitoring control panel (600) to collect and manage information about the fire occurrence area.

[0061] The fire management server (700) can store and manage information of each component within the control system (1000). At this time, the fire management server (700) can collect and store various information related to each sprinkler head (200), including unique identification numbers assigned to each head control unit (300) and head driving unit (500), or share it with other components.

[0062] The unique identification number of the head drive unit (500) can be used to identify the sprinkler head (200) to which the head drive unit (500) is installed, but is not limited thereto, and it is also possible to assign a separate unique identification number to the sprinkler head (200).

[0063] The above fire management server (700) may be omitted as needed by the operator, and in such case, other components including a fire detector (800) and a monitoring control panel (600) may perform the role instead.

[0064] The fire detector (800) may be configured to detect the occurrence of a fire in the corresponding protected area, and may be equipped with wired or wireless communication functions. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the fire detector (800) may be connected to a fire management server (700) to transmit and receive information to and from each other.

[0065] Each of the aforementioned fire detector (800), monitoring control panel (600), head control unit (300), and head driving unit (500) is equipped with a wired communication function or a wireless communication function so as to be able to transmit and receive information to and from each other.

[0067] Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating the head control unit of Figure 1.

[0068] Referring to FIG. 2, the head control unit (300) may be configured to remotely open the sprinkler head (200).

[0069] The head control unit (300) is connected to the monitoring control panel (600) and the head drive unit (500), receives an operation request signal transmitted from the monitoring control panel (600), adjusts the output of the head drive unit (500), and determines whether to open the sprinkler head (200) based on the current value detected by the head drive unit (500) and transmits the result to the monitoring control panel (600). At this time, the head control unit (300) may be directly connected to the monitoring control panel (600) or connected to the monitoring control panel (600) through another head control unit (300).

[0070] Specifically, the head control unit (300) may include a control unit (MCU) (302), a power supply unit (304), a power control unit (306), a current detection unit (308), and a driver (310).

[0071] The control unit (302) is configured to control the overall operation of the head control unit (300) and can control power for output adjustment of the head drive unit (500) and determine whether the sprinkler head (200) is open.

[0072] Specifically, the control unit (302) receives an operation request signal from the monitoring control panel (600), adjusts the power of the head drive unit (500), and determines whether to open the sprinkler head (200) based on the changed current of the head drive unit (500) and transmits it to the monitoring control panel (600).

[0073] The control unit (302) can open the sprinkler head (200) by operating the head drive unit (500) according to the operation request signal of the monitoring control panel (600).

[0074] The control unit (302) can determine whether the sprinkler head (200) is open based on the amount of current change or resistance change input from the current detection unit (308).

[0075] Specifically, the control unit (302) recognizes the case where the current is cut off or the resistance value changes above a preset reference value as the open state of the sprinkler head (200), and conversely recognizes the case where normal current flows as the closed state.

[0076] The information on whether the sprinkler head (200) is determined as described above is transmitted to the monitoring control panel (600) by the control unit (302), and the monitoring control panel (600) can monitor the open state of the sprinkler head (200) remotely in real time through this. Accordingly, the control unit (302) of the present disclosure can provide a highly reliable control structure that not only provides simple drive control but also allows verification of the actual operation status of the sprinkler head (200) in conjunction with the monitoring control panel (600).

[0077] The control unit (302) can control the power generated from the heating resistor (508) provided in the head drive unit (500) according to the operation request signal applied from the monitoring control panel (600). In addition, the control unit (302) can adjust the driving timing and the amount of power applied to the head drive unit (500) based on the intrinsic operating temperature and target operating time of the thermal element (218) included in the sprinkler head (200). This allows the actual opening time of the sprinkler head (200) to be precisely adjusted according to the control signal.

[0078] The control unit (302) can control the thermal element (218) to an optimal operation by considering that the thermal element (218) can adjust its unique operating temperature and operating time according to a preset standard.

[0079] That is, power (P) = Voltage 2 (V 2 Since ) / resistance (R) [W], when the resistance is maintained at a constant level, the power control unit (306) can control the power supplied to the head drive unit (500) by adjusting the voltage applied to the resistance using an inverter, etc.

[0080] A variable resistor may be additionally placed in series with a resistor connected to the head driving unit (500), and the voltage applied to the head driving unit (500) may be selectively changed by changing the value of the variable resistor.

[0081] Meanwhile, as another example, by setting the resistance value applied to the head drive unit (500) differently according to the characteristics of each type of sprinkler head disclosed in Table 1 (e.g., operating temperature, response time, etc.), the optimal operating characteristics required for each sprinkler head (200) can be realized.

[0082] Table 1 below may show the relationship between the indicated temperature and the reaction grade of a flush-type sprinkler head.

[0083]

[0084] Table 2 below may represent design conditions.

[0085]

[0086] The power supply unit (304) may be configured to supply overall power for the operation of the head control unit (300).

[0087] The power control unit (306) may be configured to control the output of the head drive unit (500) by adjusting the voltage or adjusting the variable resistor.

[0088] Specifically, the power control unit (306) can adjust the power applied to the head drive unit (500) according to the control of the control unit (302), and can adjust the operating time of the sprinkler head (200) according to the inherent operating temperature and operating time of the heat-sensitive element (218) of the sprinkler head (200) that is preset.

[0089] The current detection unit (308) may be configured to detect a current value or a resistance value that changes accordingly when the sprinkler head (200) is opened by a forced opening operation or a unique melting operation of the heat-sensitive element (218) in response to an operation request signal from the monitoring control panel (600).

[0090] Specifically, the current detection unit (308) can detect that when the sprinkler head (200) is opened, the electrical circuit formed in the head driving unit (500) is switched to a permanent open state (Open Circuit), the circuit resistance changes to infinity, and accordingly, the current is abruptly cut off.

[0091] The current detection unit (308) transmits the detected change in current value or resistance value to the control unit (302) to reliably determine whether the sprinkler head (200) is open. Accordingly, the current detection unit (308) can improve the accuracy of remote monitoring and control by not only transmitting a simple operation signal but also verifying the actual open state of the sprinkler head (200) in real time.

[0093] FIGS. 3 and 4 are block diagrams illustrating the overall structure of a ceiling-embedded sprinkler control system according to another embodiment.

[0094] Below, a configuration in which a plurality of sprinkler heads are connected to a single head control unit in a control system (1000) will be described as an example.

[0095] The control system (1000) may include a fire extinguishing water pipe (100), an alarm valve (110), a plurality of sprinkler heads (200-1 to 200-n; 200), a head control unit (300), a monitoring control panel (600), a fire management server (700), and a fire detector (800).

[0096] The fire extinguishing water pipe (100) is a pipe for supplying fire extinguishing water to a plurality of sprinkler heads (200-1 to 200-n) and can be connected to an alarm valve (110).

[0097] The alarm valve (110) is automatically opened when the sprinkler head (200-1 to 200-n) sprays fire extinguishing water, supplying fire extinguishing water to the control system (1000) and maintaining a constant water pressure within the system.

[0098] The sprinkler head (200) may be configured to suppress a fire by spraying high-pressure fire extinguishing water into a protected area (or monitoring area) when a fire occurs.

[0099] When each of the multiple sprinkler heads (200-1 to 200-n, 200-11 to 200-1n, 200-21 to 200-2n) is opened according to individual control, group control, or mechanical operation, the opening status of each sprinkler head (200-1 to 200-n, 200-11 to 200-1n, 200-21 to 200-2n) can be determined by the resistance value or current value detected through each head control unit (300-1, 300-2) and transmitted to the monitoring control panel (600).

[0100] Referring to FIG. 3, one head control unit (300) can be connected to a plurality of sprinkler heads (200-1 to 200-n).

[0101] The head control unit (300) can individually operate each of the sprinkler heads (200-1 to 200-n) according to the control signal of the monitoring control panel (600), and can group multiple sprinkler heads (200-1 to 200-n) by protection zone (e.g., living room, bedroom-1, bedroom-2, etc.) or by the arrangement order of the sprinkler heads (200-1 to 200-n) (e.g., 200-1 to 4, 200-5 to 200-6, or 200-7 to 200-n) and operate them all at once.

[0102] Referring to FIG. 4, a plurality of sprinkler heads (200-11 to 200-1n) can be connected to one head control unit (300-1), and a plurality of sprinkler heads (200-21 to 200-2n) can be connected to another head control unit (300-2).

[0103] For example, the head control unit (300-1 or 300-2) can group multiple sprinkler heads (200-11 to 200-1n, 200-21 to 200-2n) by protection zone (protection zone #1, protection zone #2) and operate them all at once according to the control signal of the monitoring control panel (600).

[0104] Through this, the control system (1000) of the present disclosure can effectively suppress the fire in the early stages and inhibit the spread of the fire by controlling each of the above-described operations according to the fire spread speed, the structure of the protected area, or the characteristics of the stored flammable material when a fire occurs.

[0105] Referring to FIG. 4, the head control unit (300-1) and another head control unit (300-2) may be configured to be connected in series with each other.

[0106] Accordingly, the head control unit (300-1) and another head control unit (300-2) can communicate with each other and receive signals transmitted from another additionally connected head control unit (not shown) and transmit them to the monitoring control panel (600), thereby ensuring the stability of the control system (1000) through redundancy.

[0107] The monitoring control panel (600) may be configured to be connected to a fire management server (700), and when a fire is detected through a fire detector (800), receive information about the fire occurrence area from the fire management server (700) and transmit a control signal to the head control unit (300) to operate the sprinkler head (200) in the fire occurrence area.

[0108] The fire management server (700) is linked with the monitoring control panel (600) and connected to the fire detectors (800, 800-1, 800-2) installed in each protected area (e.g., living room, bedroom-1, bedroom-2, etc.), and can receive information about the fire occurrence area from the fire detectors (800) and provide it to the monitoring control panel (600).

[0109] The fire detector (800) may be equipped with wired or wireless communication functions and configured to detect the occurrence of a fire in the area.

[0111] FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a head control unit according to another embodiment.

[0112] Figure 5 will be explained as an example of a configuration in which multiple sprinkler heads are connected to a single head control unit in a ceiling-embedded sprinkler control system as in Figures 3 and 4.

[0113] The head control unit (300) is configured to remotely open a plurality of sprinkler heads (200-1 to 200-n; 200) and is connected to the monitoring control unit (600) through the monitoring control unit (600) or other head control units (300-1, 300-2), and can be connected to a plurality of head driving units (500-1 to 500-n).

[0114] The head control unit (300) receives an operation request signal from the monitoring control panel (600), adjusts the output of each head drive unit (500-1 to 500-n), and determines whether each sprinkler head (200-1 to 200-n) is open based on the current value or resistance value detected through each head drive unit (500-1 to 500-n) and transmits the result to the monitoring control panel (600).

[0115] Specifically, the head control unit (300) may include a control unit (302), a power supply unit (304), a power control unit (306), a current detection unit (308), and a plurality of actuators (310).

[0116] The control unit (302) is configured to control the overall operation of the head control unit (300), performs power control for adjusting the output of each head drive unit (500-1 to 500-n), and can determine whether each sprinkler head (200-1 to 200-n) is open.

[0117] Specifically, the control unit (302) receives an operation request signal from the monitoring control panel (600), adjusts the power of each head drive unit (500-1 to 500-n), and determines whether to open each sprinkler head (200-1 to 200-n) based on the changed current of each head drive unit (500-1 to 500-n) and transmits the result to the monitoring control panel (600).

[0118] The control unit (302) can open the sprinkler heads (200-1 to 200-n) by operating the head drive unit (500-1 to 500-n) according to the operation request signal of the monitoring control panel (600).

[0119] The control unit (302) can operate the sprinkler heads (200-1 to 200-n) individually, or group and operate the multiple sprinkler heads (200-1 to 200-n) according to at least one of the following: a protected area, an arrangement order of the sprinkler heads (200-1 to 200-n), a control logic, and a risk order based on a risk factor environment.

[0120] The control unit (302) can determine whether each of the sprinkler heads (200-1 to 200-n) is open based on the amount of current change input from the current detection unit (308). Specifically, the control unit (302) recognizes the case where the current is cut off or the resistance value changes to infinity as the open state of the sprinkler heads (200-1 to 200-n), and conversely recognizes the case where normal current flows as the closed state.

[0121] The information on whether the opening status is determined as described above is transmitted to the monitoring control panel (600) by the control unit (302), and the monitoring control panel (600) can remotely monitor the opening status of each of the plurality of sprinkler heads (200-1 to 200-n) in real time. Accordingly, the control unit (302) of the present disclosure can provide a highly reliable control structure that not only provides simple drive control but also verifies the actual operation status of each sprinkler head (200-1 to 200-n) in conjunction with the monitoring control panel (600).

[0122] The control unit (302) can control the power generated from the heating resistor (508) provided in the head drive unit (500-1 to 500-n) according to the operation request signal applied from the monitoring control panel (600). In addition, the control unit (302) can adjust the driving timing and the amount of power applied to the head drive unit (500) based on the inherent operating temperature and target operating time of the heat-sensitive element (218) included in the sprinkler head (200). This allows the actual opening time of the sprinkler head (200) to be precisely adjusted according to the control signal.

[0123] The control unit (302) can control the thermal element (218) to an optimal operation by considering that the thermal element (218) can adjust its unique operating temperature and operating time according to a preset standard.

[0124] That is, power (P) = Voltage 2 (V 2 Since ) / resistance (R) [W], when the resistance is maintained at a constant level, the power control unit (306) can control the power supplied to the head drive unit (500-1 to 500-n) by adjusting the voltage applied to the resistance using an inverter, etc.

[0125] The power supply unit (304) may be configured to supply overall power for the operation of the head control unit (300).

[0126] The power control unit (306) may be configured to adjust the output of each of the head drive units (500-1 to 500-n) by adjusting the voltage or adjusting the variable resistor.

[0127] Specifically, the power control unit (306) can adjust the power applied to each of the head driving units (500-1 to 500-n) according to the control of the control unit (302), and can adjust the operating time of the sprinkler heads (200-1 to 200-n) according to the inherent operating temperature and operating time of the thermal element (218) of the pre-set sprinkler head (200). That is, the power control unit (306) can control the operating time of the sprinkler heads (200-1 to 200-n) by considering the characteristics (inherent operating temperature and operating time) that differ according to the specifications of each thermal element (218) and by considering the characteristics of the thermal element (218) identified in advance.

[0128] The current detection unit (308) may be configured to detect whether each of the sprinkler heads (200-1 to 200-n) is open.

[0129] The current detection unit (308) can determine whether the sprinkler head (200-1 to 200-n) is open based on the change in electrical state transmitted according to the opening of the sprinkler head (200-1 to 200-n).

[0130] The actuator (310) may be configured to directly apply voltage to each head actuator (500-1 to 500-n) of the sprinkler head (200-1 to 200-n), or to detect a change in current when the sprinkler head (200-1 to 200-n) is opened and transmit it to the current detector (308).

[0131] The current detection unit (308) may be configured to detect a change in current value or a change in resistance value in each sprinkler head (200-1 to 200-n) when the sprinkler head (200) is opened by a forced opening operation according to an operation request signal from the monitoring control panel (600) or by a unique melting operation of the heat-sensitive element (218).

[0132] Specifically, the current detection unit (308) can detect the current individually and transmit it to the control unit (302) because the current changes as the electrical circuit formed in the head driving unit (500-1 to 500-n) becomes permanently open when the sprinkler head (200-1 to 200-n) is opened.

[0133] The change in the detected current or resistance value is transmitted to the control unit (302), so that the head control unit (300) can reliably determine whether each sprinkler head (200-1 to 200-n) is open. Accordingly, the current detection unit (308) of the present disclosure can improve the accuracy of remote monitoring and control by not only transmitting a simple operation signal but also individually checking the actual open state of each sprinkler head (200-1 to 200-n) in real time.

[0134] As another example, a variable resistor may be additionally placed in series with a resistor connected to the head driving unit (500-1 to 500-n), and the voltage applied to the head driving unit (500) may be selectively changed by changing the value of the variable resistor.

[0135] As another example, by setting different resistance values ​​applied to the head drive unit (500-1 to 500-n) according to the characteristics of each type of sprinkler head disclosed in Table 1 (e.g., operating temperature, response time, etc.), the optimal operating characteristics required for each sprinkler head (200-1 to 200-n) can be realized.

[0137] FIG. 6 is a block diagram for explaining a sprinkler head and a head driving unit according to one embodiment, FIG. 7 and 8 are block diagrams for explaining the head driving unit of FIG. 6 in detail, and FIG. 8 is a drawing for explaining the lead wire groove of a sprinkler head according to one embodiment.

[0138] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 8, the sprinkler head (200) may include a body (202), an outlet (204), a frame (206), an inner loading plate (210), a retaining ring (212), an outer loading plate (214), a heat collector (216), a thermal element (218), and a locking screw (220).

[0139] At this time, the sprinkler head (200) may be formed integrally with the head driving unit (500). The head driving unit (500) may have a lead wire groove (512) formed therein.

[0140] The body (202) may be configured to be coupled with a fire extinguishing water pipe (100 in FIG. 1, FIG. 3 and FIG. 4) for a sprinkler that supplies fire extinguishing water, and may include a water outlet (204) in the form of a through hole.

[0141] The body (202) may include a valve cap (not shown in the drawing) that closes the outlet (204) in a normal boundary state where the sprinkler head (200) is not operating in the other part (lower part).

[0142] The outlet (204) may be configured to discharge fire extinguishing water by being formed in the form of a path penetrating the center of another part (lower) from a part (upper) of the body (202).

[0143] The frame (206) may be configured to be screw-coupled to the body (202).

[0144] The frame (206) is screw-coupled to the inner surface of the body (202) and formed to protrude from the other part of the body (202), and is formed in the shape of a through hole that penetrates a part and the other part, and a lead wire groove (512) may be formed on a part of the outer surface.

[0145] The lead wire groove (512) may be configured to accommodate electrical wiring for power supply for the operation of the head drive unit (200) and for transmitting a signal to determine whether the sprinkler head (202) is open.

[0146] A portion (upper) of the frame (206) is joined to the body (202), and the other portion (lower) can support the thermal element (218) by means of a locking screw (220).

[0147] The internal loading plate (210) is formed such that a cylinder contacts a part of the circular plate shape, and a through hole is formed from a part to penetrate another part so as to be inserted into the through hole of the frame (206).

[0148] The retaining ring (212) is formed such that one side contacts the inner loading plate (210) and the other side contacts the outer loading plate (214), and may be configured to be a flat ring-shaped ring made of an elastic material with some connections cut off.

[0149] Specifically, the retaining ring (212) may be configured to be positioned directly below the outer edge of the inner loading plate (210) and partially inserted into a groove formed on the inner side of the frame (205).

[0150] The retaining ring (212) can be formed as a flat ring in the shape of an elastic flat ring with a circular cross-section and a portion cut off.

[0151] The retaining ring (212) may be configured to be in a state of tension in a normal state on the inclined surface formed on the inner loading plate (210) and the outer loading plate (214), and to be fixed in place by the tension of the valve cap (not shown in the drawing), the inner loading plate (210), and the outer loading plate (214), so that the outlet (204) is not opened.

[0152] The external loading plate (214) may be configured to be formed in a shape corresponding to the internal loading plate (210) and inserted in a certain direction from the other part of the internal loading plate.

[0153] Specifically, the outer loading plate (214) is positioned on the other side (downward side) of the retaining ring (212) and is formed to correspond to the outer surface of the inner loading plate (210), so as to be combined in a manner that wraps around the outside of the inner loading plate (210).

[0154] The heat collector (216) may be configured to be screw-coupled to the external loading plate (214).

[0155] The heat collector (216) may be formed on the other part (lower part) of the external loading plate (214) and configured to detect fire.

[0156] The thermal element (218) may be configured to be placed on the other part (lower part) of the frame (206).

[0157] Specifically, the heat-sensing element (218) is placed on the lower part (bottom) of the heat collector (216) and melts upon the occurrence of a fire, and can be supported on the outer loading plate (214) by a locking screw (210) that is screw-coupled to the inner loading plate (210).

[0158] The thermal element (218) is formed of a low-melting point metal alloy (Eutectic Alloy), such as Field's Metal, which melts at a specific temperature, and has the characteristic of melting at a specific temperature. Accordingly, the intrinsic operating temperature and operating time of the thermal element (218) can be set based on the data in Table 1 described above, and the control unit (302) can perform optimal operation control by referring to this.

[0159] The locking screw (220) may be configured to support the other part (lower part) of the heat-sensing body (218).

[0160] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the head drive unit (500) may include an insulating ring (502), an inner ring contact (504), an outer ring contact (506), a heating resistor (508), and an insulating cap (510) that are inserted into the outer diameter surface of the outer loading plate (214). The heating resistor (508) may be a nichrome wire resistor.

[0161] Additionally, the head drive unit (500) may further include an inner ring contact spring (505) that is positioned at the contact surface between the inner diameter surface of the inner ring contact (504) and the outer diameter surface of the outer ring contact (506) when the inner ring contact (504) and the outer ring contact (506) are combined, and performs a fixing function.

[0162] The insulating ring (502) may be configured to ensure electrical insulation between the outer loading plate (214) formed of a metal material, the inner ring contact (504), and the outer ring contact (506).

[0163] The insulating ring (502) is made of a material with relatively excellent insulating properties, such as synthetic resin, ceramic, or epoxy resin, and can be provided in a flat ring structure. This structure not only provides electrical insulation but also secures mechanical strength so that it can be stably fixed during the compression or fastening process.

[0164] The insulating ring (502) can be formed in the shape of a ring, with an outer diameter corresponding to the inner diameter of the inner ring contact (504) and an inner diameter corresponding to the inner diameter of the outer ring contact (506). By doing so, the insulating ring (502) can minimize the contact area to prevent leakage current and minimize the degradation of insulation performance due to thermal and mechanical deformation even during long-term use. Accordingly, the insulating ring (502) can effectively block current from leaking to the external loading plate (214) while simultaneously providing a key insulating structure that maintains the reliability of the circuit and prevents malfunction.

[0165] The inner ring contact (504) is disposed on the other part of the insulating ring (502) and is formed in the shape of a ring-shaped flat ring, and may include a first-1 printed circuit pattern and a second-1 printed circuit pattern divided and disposed opposite each other on the inner diameter surface. The other part of the insulating ring (502) may refer to the lower part of the insulating ring (502) based on FIG. 6.

[0166] Referring to FIG. 8, the inner ring contact (504) is a flat ring-shaped flat ring made of a printed circuit board (PCB), and on the inner diameter surface, a first-1 printed circuit pattern (504-1) and a second-1 printed circuit pattern (504-2) formed in a printed circuit board (PCB) manner may be formed by dividing them left and right so as to face each other. That is, the first-1 printed circuit pattern (504-1) and the second-1 printed circuit pattern (504-2) may be formed on the inner diameter surface of the inner ring contact (504).

[0167] The above first-1 printed circuit pattern (504-1) and second-1 printed circuit pattern (504-2) form electrically independent paths and may be configured to be electrically connected to an external ring contact (506).

[0168] The first-1 printed circuit pattern (504-1) and the second-1 printed circuit pattern (504-2) can be connected to the head control unit (300) through an electrical contact provided on the upper plane of the flat ring. The electrical contact can be extended to the upper plane through a via hole or a conductive plating layer to form an electrical circuit connection with the first-1 printed circuit pattern (504-1) and the second-1 printed circuit pattern (504-2). At this time, the connection with the head control unit (300) uses electrical wiring, and the wiring path can utilize a lead wire groove (512) formed by carving a groove in the frame (206). To this end, as shown in FIG. 9, a lead wire groove (512) can be formed from a part of the outer surface of the frame (206) of the sprinkler head (200) to another part.

[0169] The outer ring contact (506) is positioned on the other side of the inner ring contact (504) and is formed in the shape of a ring-shaped flat ring, and may include a first-2 printed circuit pattern (506-1) electrically connected to a first-1 printed circuit pattern (504-1) and a second-2 printed circuit pattern (506-2) electrically connected to a second-1 printed circuit pattern (504-2) that are divided and positioned opposite each other on the outer diameter surface.

[0170] Specifically, the outer ring contact (506) is a flat ring-shaped flat ring made of a printed circuit board (PCB), and on the outer diameter surface, a first-second printed circuit pattern (506-1) and a second-second printed circuit pattern (506-2) formed in a printed circuit board (PCB) manner can be arranged in left and right divisions so as to face each other. That is, the first-second printed circuit pattern (506-1) and the second-second printed circuit pattern (506-2) can be formed on the outer diameter surface of the outer ring contact (506).

[0171] The first-2 printed circuit pattern (506-1) and the second-2 printed circuit pattern (506-2) form electrically independent paths, which may be configured to electrically connect the first-1 printed circuit pattern (504-1) and the second-1 printed circuit pattern (504-2) formed on the inner diameter surface of the inner ring contact (504) to each of the two circuits.

[0172] The first-2 printed circuit pattern (506-1) and the second-2 printed circuit pattern (506-2) can be connected to a heating resistor (508) through a heating resistor connection contact (506-3) (electrical contact) provided on the lower plane of the flat ring. The heating resistor connection contact (506-3) can be extended to the lower plane through a via hole or a conductive plating layer to form an electrical circuit connection with the first-2 printed circuit pattern (506-1) and the second-2 printed circuit pattern (506-2).

[0173] Meanwhile, the inner ring contact spring (505) can be implemented in the form of a thin spring between the first-1 printed circuit pattern (504-1) and the first-2 printed circuit pattern (506-1) and between the second-1 printed circuit pattern (504-2) and the second-2 printed circuit pattern (506-2) of the inner ring contact (504) and the outer ring contact (506). As shown in FIG. 8, the inner ring contact spring (505) can be composed of two.

[0174] The inner ring contact spring (505) can normally maintain an electrical connection by stably pressing the inner ring contact (504) and the outer ring contact (506) using the elastic restoring force of the spring. On the other hand, when the sprinkler head is opened, the inner ring contact (504) and the outer ring contact (506) are mechanically separated by the separation action of the head structure, and accordingly, the inner ring contact spring (505) also relaxes and detaches, so that the electrical connection between the first-1 printed circuit pattern (504-1) and the first-2 printed circuit pattern (506-1), and between the second-1 printed circuit pattern (504-2) and the second-2 printed circuit pattern (506-2), can be automatically cut off, respectively.

[0175] Generally, the inner ring contact (504) and the outer ring contact (506) may be directly electrically connected by the first-1 printed circuit pattern (504-1) and the first-2 printed circuit pattern (506-1), and the second-1 printed circuit pattern (504-2) and the second-2 printed circuit pattern (506-2), without the inner ring contact spring (505). In this direct contact connection method, the contacts may corrode or weld in a fire or long-term use environment, and in such cases, even if the sprinkler head is opened, electrical separation between the first printed circuit pattern (504-1, 504-2) and the second printed circuit pattern (506-1, 506-2) may not occur, and a problem may arise in which the head control unit (300) cannot detect whether the normal sprinkler head (200) is open.

[0176] On the other hand, the present disclosure applies an internal ring contact spring (505) structure so that when the sprinkler head (200) is opened, a reliable mechanical separation and electrical opening are induced, thereby allowing for the expectation of further improving the reliability of the detection result regarding whether the sprinkler head (200) is open.

[0177] The head driving unit (500) can transmit to the head control unit (300) an electrical state change that occurs as the inner ring contact (504) and the outer ring contact (506) are separated from each other. The electrical state change may include a resistance change or a current change.

[0178] The heating resistor (508) may be configured to be connected to the first-2 printed circuit pattern (506-1) and the second-2 printed circuit pattern (506-2) and to heat the heat-sensitive element (218) of the sprinkler head (200) according to the application of voltage so that the sprinkler head (200) opens.

[0179] The heating resistor (508) may be coated with an insulating resin or enamel material so that electrical insulation is stably secured.

[0180] Specifically, the heating resistor (508) may be coated with an insulating material having an outer surface that includes at least one of an insulating resin and an enamel material.

[0181] The heating resistor (508) is arranged in a circular winding shape on the outer surface of the external loading plate (214) so ​​as to heat the heat-sensing body (218) when voltage is applied during operation. That is, the heating resistor (508) is arranged in a circular winding shape for a preset number of times, and when voltage is applied during operation, the heat-sensing body (218) can be heated quickly and uniformly by resistance heating.

[0182] Both terminals of the heating resistor (508) are electrically connected to the electrical wiring drawn from the driver (310) of the head control unit (300), and the electrical wiring can be stably fixed by being arranged along the lead wire groove (512) formed in the frame (206).

[0183] An insulating cap (510) may be positioned at the other end of the outer ring contact (506) and may have a through hole formed so that a heating resistor (508) is inserted at a position corresponding to the heating resistor (508).

[0184] An insulating cap (510) may be formed to be mounted inside the head drive unit (500) to ensure electrical insulation. The insulating cap (220) is made of a synthetic resin, ceramic, or epoxy resin material with excellent insulating properties and can block a heating resistor (508) or electrode part placed inside from coming into direct contact with a metal material such as a frame (206) or a heat collector (216). The heating resistor (508) may also be referred to as a nichrome wire resistor.

[0185] The insulating cap (510) may be provided in a disc shape or a ring shape, and may have a protrusion or groove structure formed as needed.

[0186] The inner ring contact (504) and the outer ring contact (506) can be electrically contacted, respectively, the first-1 printed circuit pattern (504-1) and the second-1 printed circuit pattern (504-2) formed in a printed circuit board (PCB) manner. Under normal circumstances, the inner ring contact (504) and the outer ring contact (506) form a continuous electrical path between the first-1 and first-2 printed circuit patterns and the first-2 and second-2 printed circuit patterns, so that the resistance value can be maintained within a certain range.

[0187] However, when a fire occurs, the heat collector (216) collects heat and transmits it to the heat-sensing body (218) by the resistance heating of the heating resistor (508) of the head driving unit (500) under the control of the head control unit (300), or by the heat generated by the fire, and the heat-sensing body (218) melts and the head opens. Then, the inner ring contact (504) and the outer ring contact (506) are mechanically separated, and the electrical connection between the first-1 printed circuit pattern (504-1) and the second printed circuit pattern (504-2) is severed, causing the resistance value to change to virtually infinite. This change in resistance is detected in real time by the current detection unit (308, 308) of the head control unit (300), and the opening status of the sprinkler head (200) can be determined electronically based on the rapid change in the current value.

[0188] Referring to FIG. 8, the lead wire groove (512) may be a concave, elongated fan-shaped groove on the surface of the frame (206) for connecting a lead wire to the head control unit (300) to supply power to the heating resistor (508) and to detect when the sprinkler head is opened, that the inner ring contact (504) and the outer ring contact (506) are separated, and the electrical circuit becomes permanently open.

[0189] The lead wire groove (512) arranged in this manner prevents the electrical wiring from being damaged or detached due to external shocks or vibrations, and also has the effect of preventing malfunction by maintaining insulation reliability. Therefore, the structure according to the present invention can simultaneously realize rapid heating of the heat-sensing element (218) and safe placement of the electrical wiring even within a limited space, thereby enabling more stable and reliable operation in a fire situation.

[0190] Unlike a conventional sprinkler head, the sprinkler head (200) of the present disclosure can precisely control the operation of the heat-sensitive element and determine the open state in real time, thereby providing the effect of improving the reliability and control efficiency of fire response.

[0191] In a normal standby state, a typical sprinkler head (not shown) may not have the heat-sensitive element (218) melted, so the outlet (204) is kept sealed by the valve cap and the fire extinguishing water may not be discharged. Subsequently, when a fire occurs in the building and heat spreads along the ceiling surface due to convection, the sprinkler head (200) can intensively collect heat through the heat collector (216) and transfer it to the heat-sensitive element (218).

[0192] The heat-sensing element (218) is made of a low-melting point metal alloy (eutectic alloy) and can gradually melt and decrease in volume when heated above a certain temperature of Table 1 described above. As a result, the outer loading plate (214) moves downward, and as a result, a gap can be formed between the inner loading plate (210) and the outer loading plate (214).

[0193] As a gap occurs, the retaining ring (212) coupled to the inner groove of the frame (206) contracts (shrinks) due to the restoring force and detaches, and as a result, the heat-sensitive element (218) loses its support and can fall freely. Accordingly, the valve cap moves downward due to its own weight and the water pressure of the fire extinguishing water, and the outlet (204) can be opened. That is, a typical sprinkler head can operate so that the outlet (204) is opened by the melting of the heat-sensitive element (218), and fire extinguishing water is sprayed to suppress the fire.

[0194] Accordingly, since a standard sprinkler head relies solely on the melting of the heat-sensitive element (218) by the fire heat source, the response speed in the early stages of a fire is slow, and in certain environments (e.g., high ceiling structure, weak convection flow), there may be a delay in operation.

[0195] On the other hand, the control system (1000) of the present disclosure is equipped with an electric heating means (e.g., a nichrome wire resistor) linked to a head control unit (300), and can induce a relatively rapid opening operation by directly heating the heat-sensing element (218) by the heating resistor (508) according to a control signal. Accordingly, the control system (1000) of the present disclosure can respond more quickly in the event of a fire and can simultaneously ensure reliability and safety.

[0197] FIG. 10 is a simulation graph of the operating time relative to the temperature rise of a head drive unit according to one embodiment.

[0198] Referring to FIG. 10, the heating resistance (508) of the head driving unit (500) for operating the sprinkler head (200) by melting the heat-sensitive element (218) of the sprinkler head (200) of Table 1 by resistance heating can be calculated as follows.

[0199] 1) Calculation of heat quantity (required energy)

[0200] The total energy Q required to heat a heat-sensitive element (metal alloy) to a target temperature can be calculated using Equation 1.

[0201]

[0202] m : Mass of heat-sensitive material (g) → 0.2 g

[0203] c : Specific heat (J / g·K) → 0.15 J / g·K (Field's Metal approx.)

[0204] Display temperature 72℃ early response type

[0205] Q = 0.2 · 0.15 ·105 = 3.15 J

[0206] 2) Heat energy including loss correction

[0207] Heat loss coefficient:

[0208] Heater efficiency:

[0209] Transmission delay correction factor:

[0210] The adjusted heat quantity after loss correction can be as shown in Equation 2.

[0211]

[0212] 3) Calculation of operating time

[0213] When the supply power P = 1.5 W, the operating time t can be equal to Equation 3.

[0214]

[0215] 4) Calculate resistance value

[0216] When the supply voltage V = 12 V, the resistance value R of the heating resistor can be equal to Equation 4.

[0217]

[0218] 5) Calculation of heating resistor (Nichrome resistor) length [L]

[0219] Unit resistance of nichrome wire = 34.7 Ω / m (based on a diameter of 0.2 mm)

[0220] The length of the heating resistance can be equal to Equation 5.

[0221]

[0223] When a heat resistance is wrapped in multiple layers on the outer diameter surface of the outer loading plate (214) of a ceiling-mounted flush-type sprinkler head, the total number of wraps, the number of layers, and the final outer diameter can be calculated as follows.

[0224] Table 3 below may represent the definition of basic conditions.

[0225]

[0226] 1) Heating resistance, number of turns per layer, and length

[0227] The calculation of the number of turns that can be wound in one layer can be as shown in mathematical formula 6.

[0228]

[0229] The winding length of the nth layer can be equal to mathematical formula 7.

[0230]

[0231] 2) The accumulated winding length of the heating resistance (up to a total of k layers) can be equal to Equation 8.

[0232]

[0233] 3) Conditions for calculating the total number of floors k

[0234] Using mathematical formula 9, the target length and accumulated winding length By comparing, we can find the value that satisfies the minimum k.

[0235]

[0236] 4) The final outer diameter can be calculated using mathematical formula 10.

[0237]

[0239] The external loading plate (214) of a standard ceiling-mounted sprinkler head has a usable height of 9 mm to 10 mm, so a nichrome wire with a length of 2.77 m and a diameter of 0.2 mm can be wound in 4 layers.

[0240] In addition, by using an insulated heating resistor (enameled nichrome wire resistor), multi-layer winding is possible, and in this disclosure, 4-layer winding can be applied, in which case the total winding outer diameter is about 10.6 mm, which can be sufficiently accommodated in the outer space of the external loading plate (214).

[0241] Accordingly, the present disclosure can secure sufficient heat resistance even in a limited space, and this can be expected to have the effect of simultaneously ensuring the performance of operating the sprinkler head (200) by operating the heat-sensitive element (218) relatively quickly and stably melting it.

[0242] The metal alloy applied to the heat-sensing element (218) of the sprinkler head (200) in Table 1 above has a mass of about 0.2g and an average specific heat of about 0.15J / g·K as shown in Table 2, and the required heat amount of the heat resistance (508) for the early response sprinkler to operate from room temperature (based on 25℃) to an indicated temperature of 72℃ can be 8.75J when considering losses.

[0243] The heating element of the heating resistor (508) used in this embodiment is driven with a rated power of 1.5W, and the supply voltage can be DC 12V and the resistance value can be 96Ω. Accordingly, the heat-sensing element (218) may show the following simulation results.

[0244] The early response type with an indicated temperature of 72°C in the sprinkler head (200) can start operating within 5.83 seconds when resistance heating is generated by a 1.5W heating resistor.

[0245] A standard sprinkler head (200) with an indicated temperature of 105℃ can start operating within about 7.5 seconds if the operating time is calculated as in 1) to 3) above.

[0246] The present disclosure allows the operating time to be arbitrarily adjusted by controlling the structure, diameter, resistance value, and supply power of the heating resistor (508) of the head drive unit (500). As a result, it can provide the advantage of relatively fast responsiveness and precise control compared to a conventional heat-sensing sprinkler head (not shown).

[0248] FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a computing environment including a computing device according to one embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, each component may have different functions and capabilities in addition to those described below, and may include additional components in addition to those described below.

[0249] The illustrated computing environment (10) includes a computing device (12). The computing device (12) may be one or more components included in a control system (1000) according to one embodiment.

[0250] The computing device (12) includes at least one processor (14), a computer-readable storage medium (16), and a communication bus (18). The processor (14) can cause the computing device (12) to operate according to the exemplary embodiment described above. For example, the processor (14) can execute one or more programs stored in the computer-readable storage medium (16). The one or more programs may include one or more computer-executable instructions, and the computer-executable instructions may be configured to cause the computing device (12) to perform operations according to the exemplary embodiment when executed by the processor (14).

[0251] A computer-readable storage medium (16) is configured to store computer-executable instructions or program code, program data and / or other suitable forms of information. A program (20) stored in the computer-readable storage medium (16) includes a set of instructions executable by a processor (14). In one embodiment, the computer-readable storage medium (16) may be memory (volatile memory such as random access memory, non-volatile memory, or a suitable combination thereof), one or more magnetic disk storage devices, optical disk storage devices, flash memory devices, or other forms of storage media that are accessed by a computing device (12) and capable of storing desired information, or a suitable combination thereof.

[0252] The communication bus (18) interconnects various other components of the computing device (12), including the processor (14) and the computer-readable storage medium (16).

[0253] The computing device (12) may also include one or more input / output interfaces (22) and one or more network communication interfaces (26) that provide interfaces for one or more input / output devices (24). The input / output interfaces (22) and the network communication interfaces (26) are connected to a communication bus (18). The input / output devices (24) may be connected to other components of the computing device (12) through the input / output interfaces (22). An exemplary input / output device (24) may include an input device such as a pointing device (such as a mouse or trackpad), a keyboard, a touch input device (such as a touchpad or touchscreen), a voice or sound input device, various types of sensor devices and / or imaging devices, and / or an output device such as a display device, a printer, a speaker and / or a network card. An exemplary input / output device (24) may be included inside the computing device (12) as a component constituting the computing device (12), or it may be connected to the computing device (12) as a separate device distinct from the computing device (12).

[0254] The disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a recording medium that stores instructions executable by a computer. The instructions may be stored in the form of program code and, when executed by a processor, may generate a program module to perform the operation of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium may be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

[0255] Although representative embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications can be made to the above-described embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of the present invention should not be limited to the described embodiments, but should be defined by the claims set forth below as well as equivalents thereof. Explanation of the symbols

[0256] 10: Computing Environment 12: Computing device 14: Processor 16: Computer-readable storage media 18: Communication bus 20: Program 22: Input / Output Interface 24: Input / Output Devices 26: Network communication interface 100: Fire extinguishing water piping for sprinklers 110: Alarm valve 200: Sprinkler head 300: Head control unit 500: Head drive unit 502: Insulating ring 504: Internal ring contact 505: Internal ring contact spring 506: External ring contact 508: Heating resistor 510: Insulating cap 512: Lead wire home 600: Monitoring and Control Panel 700: Fire Management Server 800: Fire detector 1000: Ceiling-mounted sprinkler control system

Claims

Claim 1 A fire detector for detecting the occurrence of a fire in a protected area; a monitoring control panel for receiving a fire occurrence signal from the fire detector; a head control unit that opens a sprinkler head according to an operation request signal transmitted from the monitoring control panel, performs operation control based on the characteristics of the thermal element of the sprinkler head, and determines whether to open the sprinkler head based on a change in the electrical state of the sprinkler head; a ceiling-mounted sprinkler head for spraying fire extinguishing water into the protected area in the event of a fire; The sprinkler head comprises a head driving unit formed integrally with the sprinkler head, which heats the heat-sensitive element through an electrical heating means in accordance with an opening request signal from the head control unit to open the sprinkler head, and transmits the electrical state change resulting from the opening of the sprinkler head to the head control unit; wherein each of the fire detector, the monitoring control panel, the head control unit, and the head driving unit is equipped with a wired communication function or a wireless communication function; and the sprinkler head comprises: a body that is coupled to a fire extinguishing water pipe for a sprinkler supplying fire extinguishing water and includes a water outlet in the form of a through hole; a frame that is screw-coupled to the inner surface of the body and formed to protrude from the other part of the body, formed in the form of a through hole penetrating a part and the other part, and has a lead wire groove formed on a part of the outer surface; and an internal loading plate formed such that a cylinder contacts a part of a circular plate shape, and is provided to be inserted into the through hole of the frame by forming a through hole penetrating the other part from the part. An external loading plate formed in a shape corresponding to the internal loading plate and arranged to be inserted in a partial direction from the other part of the internal loading plate; a retaining ring made of an elastic material in the form of a flat ring with a ring shape having one side in contact with the internal loading plate and the other side in contact with the external loading plate, with a portion of the connection cut off; and a heat collector formed on the other part of the external loading plate to detect fire.A ceiling-mounted sprinkler control system comprising: a heat-sensitive element disposed on the outer part of the heat collector and melting upon the occurrence of a fire; and a locking screw supporting the outer part of the heat-sensitive element, wherein the head driving unit comprises an insulating ring, an inner ring contact, an outer ring contact, a heating resistor, and an insulating cap inserted into the outer diameter surface of the outer loading plate. Claim 2 A ceiling-embedded sprinkler control system according to claim 1, wherein the head control unit transmits the result of determining whether the sprinkler head is open to the monitoring control panel and another head control unit. Claim 3 A ceiling-embedded sprinkler control system according to claim 1, wherein the head driving unit is disposed on the outer surface of the sprinkler head and heats a heat-sensing element by an electrical heating method to open the sprinkler head, and when the sprinkler head is opened, transmits a change in electrical state resulting from the interruption of the electrical connection to the head control unit. Claim 4 A ceiling-embedded sprinkler control system according to claim 1, wherein the lead wire groove is formed to accommodate electrical wiring for power supply for the operation of the head drive unit and for transmitting a signal for determining whether the sprinkler head is open. Claim 5 delete Claim 6 A ceiling-embedded sprinkler control system according to claim 1, wherein the head driving unit comprises: an inner ring contact formed in the shape of a ring-shaped flat ring and including a first-1 printed circuit pattern and a second-1 printed circuit pattern divided and arranged opposite each other on an inner diameter surface; and an outer ring contact formed in the shape of a ring-shaped flat ring and including a first-2 printed circuit pattern electrically connected to the first-1 printed circuit pattern and a second-2 printed circuit pattern electrically connected to the second-1 printed circuit pattern, divided and arranged opposite each other on an outer diameter surface, and transmitting an electrical state change including a resistance change occurring as the inner ring contact and the outer ring contact are separated from each other to the head control unit. Claim 7 A ceiling-embedded sprinkler control system according to claim 1, wherein the heating resistor has an outer surface coated with an insulating material comprising at least one of an insulating resin and an enamel material, and is arranged in a circular winding shape on the outer surface of an external loading plate to heat the heat-sensing element upon voltage application during operation. Claim 8 A ceiling-mounted sprinkler control system according to claim 1, wherein the sprinkler head and the head driving unit each comprise a plurality of units, and the head control unit is connected to the plurality of head driving units and opens the plurality of sprinkler heads individually or in groups according to the operation request signal transmitted from the monitoring control panel, and adjusts the operation based on the thermal element characteristics of the plurality of sprinkler heads and determines whether to open each of the sprinkler heads based on the change in the electrical state of each of the plurality of sprinkler heads, and the plurality of head driving units heat the thermal element through the electrical heating means of each of the plurality of sprinkler heads according to the control of the head control unit. Claim 9 A ceiling-embedded sprinkler control system according to claim 8, wherein the head control unit individually operates each of a plurality of sprinkler heads or operates them by grouping them according to at least one of a protected zone order, an arrangement order, and a control logic, and individually determines whether each of the plurality of sprinkler heads is open and transmits the result to the monitoring control panel. Claim 10 A ceiling-embedded sprinkler control system according to claim 1, wherein the head control unit includes a current detection unit for determining whether the sprinkler head is open based on an electrical state change transmitted according to the opening of the sprinkler head. Claim 11 delete Claim 12 delete Claim 13 delete

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