Fire alarm system and method for operating same

Abstract

The fire alarm system according to an embodiment of the present invention may comprise multiple first sensing units and multiple repeaters including a first repeater. The multiple first sensing units and the multiple repeaters may operate in a fire retransmission mode or a communication inspection mode in which same divide the time into multiple first time sections and operate accordingly. The communication inspection mode may comprise: a first interval in which the first repeater transmits a communication inspection command to the multiple first sensing units at a preset time; multiple second intervals in which the multiple first sensing units successively transmit response signals to the communication inspection command, respectively; and multiple third intervals in which the first repeater and the multiple first sensing units transmit pieces of data, respectively.

Description

Fire alarm system and method of operation thereof

[0001] The present invention relates to a fire alarm system with improved reliability and a method of operating the fire alarm system.

[0002] Typically, sensing units transmit and receive inspection signals with a relay through a communication status check. To continuously check the communication status, the sensing unit switches from a standby state to an active state and can transmit and receive signals with the relay. However, the inspection signal may also activate sensing units that do not require inspection. In this case, the battery may be damaged. Furthermore, as many signals are transmitted and received during the communication status check, interference may occur, causing sensing units that do not require inspection to malfunction due to the inspection signal.

[0003] The present invention aims to provide a fire alarm system with improved reliability and an operating method of the fire alarm system.

[0004] A fire alarm system according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of first sensing units that detect the occurrence of a fire and transmit a fire detection signal that is generated or amplified by a signal transmitted, and a plurality of repeaters including a first repeater that performs wireless communication with the plurality of first sensing units, wherein the plurality of first sensing units and the plurality of repeaters operate in a communication check mode or a fire retransmission mode in which time is divided into a plurality of first time periods and the operation is performed, and the communication check mode may include a first period in which the first repeater transmits a communication check command to the plurality of first sensing units during the plurality of first time periods at a preset time, a plurality of second periods in which the plurality of first sensing units sequentially transmit a response signal to the communication check command during the first time periods, and a plurality of third periods each disposed between the plurality of second periods and each transmitting data of the first repeater and the plurality of first sensing units during the first time periods.

[0005] The plurality of second sections and the plurality of third sections may be arranged after the first section.

[0006] The above first time may be 200ms (milliseconds).

[0007] During the above communication check mode, the repeater may be in constant operation.

[0008] The bandwidth of each of the above communication check command and the response signal to the above communication check command may be less than 1%.

[0009] The fire retransmission mode may include a plurality of fourth sections in which the plurality of first sensing units sequentially transmit the fire detection signal for the first time period, a plurality of fifth sections arranged between the plurality of fourth sections and each transmitting the data of the first repeater and the plurality of first sensing units for the first time period, and a sixth section in which the first repeater transmits a fire response signal for the fire detection signal to the plurality of first sensing units for the plurality of first time periods.

[0010] The sixth section may be placed after the plurality of fourth sections and the plurality of fifth sections.

[0011] The data includes the fire detection signal, and the fire detection signal can be transmitted to the plurality of repeaters through the plurality of third sections, the plurality of fifth sections, and the sixth section.

[0012] The above fire detection signal may use an LBT (Listen Before Transmission) communication method during the plurality of third sections, the plurality of fifth sections, and the sixth section.

[0013] The plurality of first sensing units and the plurality of repeaters can be time-synchronized with each other.

[0014] In one embodiment of the present invention, a method for operating a fire alarm system including a plurality of first sensing units and a first relay that detect the occurrence of a fire and transmit a fire detection signal that is generated or transmitted by amplifying a signal, the method comprising: a step of operating the plurality of first sensing units and the first relay in a communication check mode or a fire retransmission mode in which the plurality of first sensing units and the first relay operate by dividing a time into a plurality of first time periods; the step of operating in the communication check mode includes a step of transmitting a communication check command to the plurality of first sensing units at a preset time during a plurality of first time periods; a step of sequentially transmitting a response signal to the communication check command by the plurality of first sensing units during the first time periods; and a step of transmitting data of the first relay and the plurality of first sensing units during the first time periods after the step of transmitting the response signal; and the step of operating in the fire retransmission mode includes a step of sequentially transmitting the fire detection signal by the plurality of first sensing units during the first time periods; and a step of transmitting the fire detection signal by the first relay and the plurality of first sensing units after the step of transmitting the fire detection signal. The step of transmitting the data of the units for the first time period may include a step of transmitting a fire response signal for the fire detection signal by the first relay unit to the plurality of first sensing units for a plurality of first time periods.

[0015] The above fire detection signal can be transmitted to the first repeater through the step of transmitting the fire response signal and the step of transmitting the data.

[0016] As described above, in the communication inspection mode and fire retransmission mode, time can be divided and communication between designated devices can be performed at designated times, thereby promoting efficient frequency operation. This can reduce traffic in the fire alarm system's operation method. Therefore, a fire alarm system with enhanced reliability and its operation method can be provided.

[0017] FIG. 1 illustrates a fire alarm system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating one sensing unit among a plurality of sensing units according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating a repeater according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] FIG. 4 illustrates a plurality of repeaters for each space and a plurality of first sensing units connected to each of the plurality of repeaters according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining the operation mode of a plurality of first sensing units and a repeater according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an operation method of a fire alarm system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a communication inspection mode according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] FIG. 8 can operate in a fire retransmission mode according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] In this specification, when it is said that a component (or region, layer, portion, etc.) is “on,” “connected to,” or “coupled to” another component, it means that it can be directly disposed / connected / coupled to the other component, or a third component may be disposed between them.

[0026] Identical drawing numbers indicate identical components. Furthermore, in the drawings, the thicknesses, proportions, and dimensions of components are exaggerated for the purpose of effectively illustrating the technical content. "And / or" encompasses any combination of one or more of the associated components.

[0027] While terms such as "first" and "second" may be used to describe various components, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the present invention, a first component may be referred to as a "second component," and similarly, a second component may also be referred to as a "first component." Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0028] Additionally, terms such as "below," "lower," "above," and "upper" are used to describe the relationships between components depicted in the drawings. These terms are relative concepts and are explained based on the directions indicated in the drawings.

[0029] It should be understood that terms such as "include" or "have" are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in the specification, but do not preclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0030] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains. Furthermore, terms defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted to have a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and should not be interpreted in an overly idealistic or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined herein.

[0031] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0032] FIG. 1 illustrates a fire alarm system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Referring to FIG. 1, a fire alarm system (10) can detect a fire situation. The fire alarm system (10) can include a plurality of first sensing units (SM), a video recorder (CT), a plurality of second sensing units (SM2), a repeater (200), a receiver (300), and a server system (400).

[0034] Each of the plurality of first sensing units (SM) can detect whether a fire has occurred. In addition, the plurality of first sensing units (SM) can transmit information about a state (e.g., information about the current temperature, smoke, humidity, or gas of a location where the sensing unit is installed) even if a fire has not occurred. In Fig. 1, five first sensing units (SM) are illustrated as an example, but the present invention is not limited thereto. Each of the plurality of first sensing units (SM) can transmit a fire detection signal (SG-1a) including fire information to adjacent first sensing units (SM) and / or a repeater (200).

[0035] The fire detection signal (SG-1a) may include a signal generated by the first sensing unit (SM) that detects whether a fire has occurred and a signal amplified by the first sensing unit (SM).

[0036] Radio Frequency (RF) communication can be used to transmit fire detection signals (SG-1a). The RF communication method can be a communication method that exchanges information by radiating radio frequencies. This broadband communication method, utilizing frequencies, can be highly stable due to its low impact on weather and environmental conditions. The RF communication method can also be linked to voice or other additional functions and can offer high transmission speeds.

[0037] The RF communication method according to one embodiment of the present invention may utilize a narrowband. The narrowband may refer to a band with a fractional bandwidth of less than 1%. Since the RF communication method using the narrowband has a relatively narrow data transmission bandwidth, it may not affect adjacent channels. Therefore, the communication method of the fire prevention system (10) may be advantageous in terms of frequency interference. In addition, long-distance communication of 1 km (kilometer) or more may be possible with a low power of about 10 mW (milliwatt). For example, the RF communication method may utilize a frequency band of 447 MHz to 448 MHz. However, this is merely exemplary, and communication methods such as Ethernet, Wifi, LoRA, M2M, 3G, 4G, LTE, LTE-M, Bluetooth, or WiFi Direct may be utilized in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] The image recorder (CT) can capture images (IM). The image recorder (CT) can transmit the captured images (IM) to a relay (200).

[0039] A plurality of second sensing units (SM2) can be attached to a plurality of facilities arranged in a building. The plurality of second sensing units (SM2) can obtain facility information (FI) of each of the plurality of facilities. The plurality of second sensing units (SM2) can transmit the facility information (FI) to a repeater (200). The facility information (FI) can include information on the status of the facility, such as temperature, rotation speed, rotation number, pressure, and inflow of the facility in which each of the plurality of second sensing units (SM2) is installed. However, this is exemplary, and the plurality of second sensing units (SM2) according to an embodiment of the present invention may be omitted.

[0040] A repeater (200) can communicate with a plurality of first sensing units (SM) via RF. The repeater (200) can receive a fire detection signal (SG-1a) from the plurality of first sensing units (SM). The repeater (200) can convert the fire detection signal (SG-1a) into a second fire information signal (SG-2a). The second fire information signal (SG-2a) can include the fire information. The repeater (200) can transmit the second fire information signal (SG-2a) to a receiver (300). A plurality of repeaters can be provided.

[0041] The RF communication method can be used as a method for transmitting the second fire information signal (SG-2a). That is, the repeater (200) and the receiver (300) can communicate using the RF method.

[0042] The receiver (300) can receive a second fire information signal (SG-2a) from the repeater (200). The receiver (300) can convert the second fire information signal (SG-2a) into a third fire information signal (SG-3a). The third fire information signal (SG-3a) can include the fire information. The receiver (300) can transmit the third fire information signal (SG-3a) to the server system (400).

[0043] The RF communication method can be used as a method for transmitting the third fire information signal (SG-3a). That is, the receiver (300) and the server system (400) can communicate using the RF method.

[0044] The server system (400) can determine a fire situation based on the third fire information signal (SG-3a) received from the receiver (300).

[0045] When the server system (400) receives the third fire information signal (SG-3a), it can transmit a third response signal (SG-3b) to the receiver (300).

[0046] When the receiver (300) receives the second fire information signal (SG-2a) or the third response signal (SG-3b), it can transmit the second response signal (SG-2b) to the repeater (200).

[0047] When the repeater (200) receives a fire detection signal (SG-1a) or a second response signal (SG-2b), it can transmit a fire response signal (SG-1b) to a plurality of first sensing units (SM).

[0048] The server system (400) can receive big data (BD) from an external second server (BS). The big data (BD) can be updated periodically. Big data (BD) can refer to data whose size exceeds the capabilities of typical software tools to collect, manage, and process within an acceptable hardening time, as a means of predicting a diverse society. This large-scale data can provide greater insight than existing limited data.

[0049] The plurality of stakeholders (20) may include, for example, a fire department, stakeholders at the scene of a fire, a disaster prevention center (or a public institution related to public safety), and monitoring screens placed in a building's situation room. The plurality of stakeholders (20) may receive fire warning messages in the form of text messages, video messages, or voice messages via landlines, smartphones, or other mobile devices.

[0050] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating one sensing unit among a plurality of sensing units according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, each of the plurality of first sensing units (SM) may include a fire sensing unit (SS), a memory (MM), an amplifier (AMP), a communication unit (ATN), and a battery unit (TT1).

[0052] A fire sensing unit (SS) can detect at least one of smoke, temperature, humidity, and gas. The fire sensing unit (SS) can detect at least one of smoke, temperature, humidity, and gas to generate fire information. The fire information can include a value measured by the fire sensing unit (SS). In Fig. 2, one fire sensing unit (SS) is illustrated as an example, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, each of the plurality of first sensing units (SM) includes a plurality of fire sensing units, and each of the plurality of fire sensing units can detect at least one of smoke, temperature, humidity, and gas.

[0053] The memory (MM) can store information about the fire sensing unit (SS) and unique address information of the first sensing unit (SM). The first sensing unit (SM) can automatically determine a modulation method generated by the mounted fire sensing unit (SS) based on the information about the fire sensing unit (SS). Through this automatic modulation method, the fire sensing unit (SS) can easily generate fire information and transmit a fire detection signal (SG-1a) regardless of which types of fire sensing units are mounted on each of the plurality of first sensing units (SM).

[0054] The memory (MM) may include volatile memory or non-volatile memory. The volatile memory may include DRAM, SRAM, flash memory, or FeRAM. The non-volatile memory may include an SSD or HDD.

[0055] The communication unit (ATN) can transmit a fire detection signal (SG-1a) to the repeater (200).

[0056] The communication unit (ATN) can also transmit a fire detection signal (SG-1a) to other adjacent first sensing units (SM). The fire detection signal (SG-1a) can include fire information generated by the fire sensing unit (SS) and the address information. The communication unit (ATN) can periodically transmit the fire detection signal (SG-1a) to the repeater (200).

[0057] When the first sensing unit (SM) and the repeater (200) are far apart from each other and it is difficult for the repeater (200) to directly receive the fire detection signal (SG-1a), the communication unit (ATN) can stably transmit the signal to the repeater (200) by transmitting the fire detection signal (SG-1a) to another adjacent first sensing unit (SM). The communication unit (ATN) can receive the fire detection signal (SG-1a) from another adjacent first sensing unit (SM).

[0058] The communication unit (ATN) can receive a fire detection signal (SG-1a) from another first sensing unit (SM). The received fire detection signal (SG-1a) may have a reduced transmission rate and / or accuracy due to a transmission distance and noise during the process of being transmitted from an adjacent other first sensing unit (SM). The amplifier unit (AMP) can amplify the reduced quality fire detection signal (SG-1a). The amplified fire detection signal (SG-1a) may have an improved transmission rate and / or accuracy. The communication unit (ATN) can transmit the amplified fire detection signal (SG-1a) to at least one of a plurality of adjacent first sensing units (SM). The amplified fire detection signal (SG-1a) may increase the accuracy, transmission rate, and transmission distance of a signal transmitted between the plurality of first sensing units (SM) and the repeater (200).

[0059] An amplified fire detection signal (SG-1a) according to one embodiment of the present invention can be transmitted to another adjacent first sensing unit (SM) and amplified again in an amplifier (AMP) of another adjacent first sensing unit (SM).

[0060] According to the present invention, a plurality of first sensing units (SM) can stably transmit data to a plurality of first sensing units (SM) and a repeater (200) using an amplifier (AMP). Accordingly, the reliability of the plurality of first sensing units (SM) can be improved.

[0061] The power supply unit (TT1) can supply power to the fire sensing unit (SS), memory (MM), amplifier unit (AMP), and communication unit (ATN).

[0062] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a communication unit (ATN) may utilize RF communication. The RF communication method may have low power consumption. The power consumption of the first sensing unit (SM) may be minimized, and the first sensing unit (SM) may be capable of low-power operation. Accordingly, the battery unit (TT1) may stably supply power to the fire sensing unit (SS), memory (MM), amplifier (AMP), and communication unit (ATN) for a long time.

[0063] Furthermore, according to the present invention, the plurality of first sensing units (SM) can be operated in a power-saving mode that does not consume power and a normal mode that operates in a fire situation, thereby minimizing the power consumption of each of the plurality of first sensing units (SM). Accordingly, each of the plurality of first sensing units (SM) can be operated at low power.

[0064] FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating a repeater according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 3, the repeater (200) can communicate with a plurality of first sensing units (SM). For example, the repeater (200) can communicate with 40 first sensing units (SM). The repeater (200) can include a communication unit (ANT-G), a power unit (PW-G), a battery unit (BT-G), and a control unit (CC-G).

[0066] The communication unit (ATN-G) can communicate with a plurality of first sensing units (SM) and a receiver (300). The communication unit (ATN-G) can receive a fire detection signal (SG-1a) from each of the plurality of first sensing units (SM). The communication unit (ATN-G) and the communication unit (ATN, see FIG. 2) of each of the plurality of first sensing units (SM) can communicate wirelessly via RF communication. The communication unit (ATN-G) can transmit a second fire information signal (SG-2a) to the receiver (300). The communication unit (ATN-R, see FIG. 4) of the communication unit (ATN-G) and the receiver (300) can communicate wirelessly via RF communication.

[0067] The power supply unit (PW-G) can receive a first power supply from an external source. The first power supply can supply power to the communication unit (ATN-G) and the control unit (CC-G).

[0068] The battery unit (BT-G) can supply a second power source. The second power source can supply power to the communication unit (ATN-G) and the control unit (CC-G).

[0069] According to the present invention, the battery unit (BT-G) can supply the second power even when the first power supplied from the power supply unit (PW-G) is cut off, thereby allowing the repeater (200) to operate. The repeater (200) can stably receive a fire detection signal (SG-1a) from a plurality of first sensing units (SM) and stably transmit a second fire information signal (SG-2a) to the receiver (300). Accordingly, the reliability of signal transmission can be improved.

[0070] The control unit (CC-G) can convert the fire detection signal (SG-1a) into a second fire information signal (SG-2a). When the first power is not supplied to the communication unit (ATN-G) from the power unit (PW-G), the control unit (CC-G) can supply the second power from the battery unit (BT-G) to the communication unit (ATN-G).

[0071] FIG. 4 illustrates a plurality of repeaters for each space and a plurality of first sensing units connected to each of the plurality of repeaters according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 4, the server system (400) can be connected to a plurality of relays (200-1, 200-2, 200-3).

[0073] In FIG. 4, three relays (200-1, 200-2, 200-3) are exemplarily illustrated as being connected to one server system (400). However, the number of relays (200) connected to one server system (400) according to one embodiment of the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, six to ten relays may be connected to one server system (400).

[0074] The plurality of repeaters (200-1, 200-2, 200-3) may include a first repeater (200-1), a second repeater (200-2), and a third repeater (200-3).

[0075] The first repeater (200-1) can process signals received from the first area (AR1). The first repeater (200-1) can communicate with a plurality of adjacent first sensing units (SM-1). For example, the first repeater (200-1) can communicate with seven adjacent first sensing units (SM-1).

[0076] The second repeater (200-2) can process signals received from the second area (AR2). The second repeater (200-2) can communicate with a plurality of adjacent first sensing units (SM-2). For example, the second repeater (200-2) can communicate with six adjacent first sensing units (SM-2).

[0077] The third repeater (200-3) can process signals received from the third area (AR3). The third repeater (200-3) can communicate with a plurality of adjacent first sensing units (SM-3). For example, the third repeater (200-3) can communicate with six adjacent first sensing units (SM-3).

[0078] In FIG. 4, 6 to 8 first sensing units (SM-1, SM-2, SM-3) are connected to one repeater as an example, but the number of first sensing units (SM) connected to one repeater (200) according to one embodiment of the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, 6 to 20 first sensing units (SM) may be connected to one repeater (200).

[0079] Among the plurality of first sensing units (SM-1, SM-2, SM-3), they may be arranged to overlap in the areas governed by the repeaters (200-1, 200-2, 200-3). In this case, unlike the present invention, interference may occur due to the transmission and reception of signals from the plurality of repeaters (200) to one first sensing unit (SM). However, through the operating method of the fire alarm system of the present invention, which will be described later, even if at least one first sensing unit (SM) that is not in charge of the area governed by each of the plurality of repeaters (200-1, 200-2, 200-3) is arranged, the inspection operation and the fire detection operation can be performed without interference.

[0080] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining an operation mode of a plurality of first sensing units and a repeater according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an operation method of a fire alarm system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] Referring to FIGS. 1, 4, 5, and 6, a plurality of first sensing units (SM) and a plurality of repeaters (200) can operate in a communication check mode (MD1) or a fire retransmission mode (MD2).

[0082] A plurality of first sensing units (SM) can detect the occurrence of a fire in real time (S110). If no fire is detected, the plurality of first sensing units (SM) can operate in sleep mode. This allows the plurality of first sensing units (SM) to conserve power.

[0083] If no fire occurs, the plurality of first sensing units (SM) and the repeater (200) communicating therewith can operate in a communication check mode (MD1) at predetermined intervals (S120).

[0084] When a fire occurs, at least one first sensing unit (SM) adjacent to the point where the fire occurred can generate a fire detection signal (SG-1a) (S130).

[0085] The first sensing unit (SM) can transmit the generated fire detection signal (SG-1a) to other adjacent sensing units (SM) and multiple repeaters (200).

[0086] A plurality of first sensing units (SM) and a plurality of repeaters (200) can operate in a fire retransmission mode (MD2) and transmit a fire detection signal (SG-1a) subsequent to the initially generated fire detection signal (SG-1a) (S140).

[0087] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a communication inspection mode according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0088] Referring to FIGS. 1, 5, and 7, the step of operating in the communication check mode (MD1) may include a step in which one repeater (200) transmits a communication check command to a plurality of first sensing units (SM) for a plurality of first time periods at a preset time, a step in which the plurality of first sensing units (SM) sequentially transmit a response signal to the communication check command for a first time period, and a step in which, after the step of transmitting the response signal, data of one repeater (200) and the plurality of first sensing units (SM) are transmitted for a first time period.

[0089] A plurality of repeaters (200) may be provided. A single building may house a plurality of repeaters (200). In the communication check mode (MD1), the plurality of repeaters (200) may sequentially perform communication check operations.

[0090]

[0091] Table 1 above illustrates the operation of repeater 1 (200) that is the first among multiple repeaters (200) to perform a communication check mode (MD1). Repeater 1 (200) can be connected to 20 first sensing units (SM). One repeater (200) and the first sensing units (SM) connected thereto can be defined as one group. For example, repeater 1 (200) and the 20 first sensing units (SM) connected thereto can be defined as the first group.

[0092] In Table 1 above, the row showing "seconds" may be composed of a plurality of first times. That is, one cell in Table 1 above may be defined as a first time. The cell interval of the first time may be 200 ms (milliseconds).

[0093] In the row showing the "order number", the numbers represent that the narrowband frequency band is divided into 25 channels by dividing the channels into predetermined frequency intervals. For example, the narrowband frequency band may have 447.252625 MHz (megahertz) to 447.56875 MHz, and the predetermined frequency interval may be 12.5 kHz (kilohertz). In the row showing the "order number", the first channel may be defined as the traffic vector of the repeater (200) of the corresponding group. In Table 1, the traffic vector of repeater No. 1 (200) may be assigned to 0 seconds.

[0094] In the row showing "number", the number may be the number of the first sensing units (SM), and S may be a period for receiving a response signal of the corresponding first sensing unit (SM) to the carrier signal of the first repeater (200). For example, 20 first sensing units (SM) may be connected to the first repeater (200). R may be a time for each of the first sensing units (SM) to transmit data other than a communication check command.

[0095] The plurality of first sensing units (SM) and the plurality of repeaters (200) can be time-synchronized with each other. As a result, the time error between the plurality of first sensing units (SM) and the plurality of repeaters (200) can be maintained at a maximum of less than 50 ms.

[0096] Each of the plurality of repeaters (200) can periodically transmit time information to each of the plurality of first sensing units (SM) at a time required by each of the plurality of first sensing units (SM) and at a set time. The plurality of first sensing units (SM) can correct the device time and error based on the received time information, thereby managing the time error between the plurality of first sensing units (SM) and the plurality of repeaters (200) to within 10 ms.

[0097] During the communication check mode (MD1), a plurality of repeaters (200) may be in a constant operating state. The communication check mode (MD1) may include a first section, a plurality of second sections, and a plurality of third sections.

[0098] During the first section, the first repeater (200) can transmit a communication check command to the plurality of first sensing units (SM) for a plurality of first times at a preset time (S210). That is, the first section can be a carrier transmission section of the first repeater (200), and the first section can be provided for 1.6 seconds. That is, each of the plurality of repeaters (200) can transmit a carrier signal and a communication check command to the plurality of first sensing units (SM) at a preset time based on the traffic vector defined in the channel of Table 1.

[0099] Unlike the present invention, each of the multiple repeaters can only operate using the LBT (Listen Before Transmission) communication method. This is a frequency selection method that determines whether the selected frequency is being used by another system and, if it is determined to be occupied, selects a different frequency. For example, a node intending to transmit can first listen to the medium, determine if it is idle, and then send a backoff protocol before transmitting. In this case, a wait time (Listen time) is required to check for wireless transmissions from the counterpart device and peripheral devices and determine if the frequency is free, which may increase the wait time during the competition for frequency preemption between devices. However, according to the present invention, the operation method of the fire alarm system (10) can use the LBT communication method only when necessary. As shown in Table 1 above, during the communication check mode (MD1), a plurality of repeaters (200) and a plurality of first sensing units (SM) communicating with each of the plurality of repeaters (200) can communicate with each other by dividing the time into a plurality of channels. Efficient frequency operation is possible between the plurality of repeaters (200) and the plurality of first sensing units (SM). For example, the communication method of the communication check mode (MD1) can accommodate up to three times the traffic than the communication method using the LBT communication method. As a result, collision of wireless signals used in the fire alarm system (10) can be prevented, and rapid communication check can be enabled. Therefore, a fire alarm system (10) with improved reliability and an operating method thereof can be provided.

[0100] A plurality of first sensing units (SM) can be switched to Wake-On-Radio (WOR) mode before the first predetermined period based on a time synchronized with the first repeater (200).

[0101] The first sensing units (SM) in the above WOR mode state wake up in the Sleep mode, which is a power-saving state, according to the reception sensitivity of the carrier signal transmitted by the first repeater (200) and receive a communication check command, and if it is not a communication check for the group to which the device belongs, it can be switched to the Sleep mode.

[0102] The first relay (200) can check whether all of the plurality of first sensing units (SM) belonging to the first group have transmitted a response signal to the communication check command (S220).

[0103] During a plurality of second periods, a plurality of first sensing units (SM) may sequentially transmit a response signal to a communication check command (S230). Each of the plurality of second periods may operate for a first time. Each of the plurality of second periods may be represented by a number in the row showing the "number" in Table 1. For example, during a period indicated by 1 in Table 1, a first first sensing module (SM) may transmit a response signal to a communication check command, during a period indicated by 2, a second first sensing module (SM) may transmit a response signal to a communication check command, and during a period indicated by 3, a third first sensing module (SM) may transmit a response signal to a communication check command.

[0104] A plurality of first sensing units (SM) that have received a communication check command transmitted in the first section can transmit a response signal to the first repeater (200) in the corresponding second section if they determine that the communication check command has been transmitted from a repeater (200) of the group to which they belong. The first sensing unit (SM) that transmitted the response signal can be switched back to the sleep mode.

[0105] When a plurality of first sensing units (SM) that have received a communication check command transmitted from the first section determine that the communication check command was not transmitted from a repeater (200) of the group to which they belong, they may not respond to the communication check command and may switch to Sleep mode.

[0106] The bandwidth of each of the communication check command and the response signal to the communication check command may be less than 1%. That is, the communication check command and the response signal may operate in a narrowband.

[0107] During a plurality of third sections, the first repeater (200) and each of the plurality of first sensing units (SM) can transmit data (S240). Each of the plurality of third sections can operate for a first time. Each of the plurality of third sections can be indicated by R in the row showing the "number" in Table 1. The plurality of third sections can be respectively arranged between the plurality of second sections.

[0108] The above data may include an initial fire detection signal (SG-1a) and other data. The initial fire detection signal (SG-1a) may refer to a fire detection signal (SG-1a) generated by a first sensing unit (SM) that first detected a fire among a plurality of first sensing units (SM). That is, during a communication check during a plurality of third sections, an initial fire detection signal (SG-1a) and other data generated by another first sensing unit (SM) of another group or the group may be received.

[0109] According to the present invention, the fire alarm system (10) can quickly recognize a fire situation when a fire occurs while operating in a communication inspection mode (MD1) through multiple third sections. Therefore, a fire alarm system (10) with improved fire detection reliability and an operating method thereof can be provided.

[0110] When a plurality of first sensing units (SM) transmit a fire detection signal (SG-1a) during a plurality of third periods, the plurality of first sensing units (SM) may use an LBT communication method in which they listen for 20 ms during the first period and then transmit the fire detection signal (SG-1a). By distributing and processing data using this LBT communication method, collisions between signals in the same band can be prevented.

[0111] According to the present invention, the operating method of the fire alarm system (10) can utilize the LBT communication method only when necessary. That is, the LBT communication method, which requires a waiting time, can be used only in sudden fire situations, and during communication inspection periods, time can be divided and communication between designated devices can be performed at designated times, thereby promoting efficient frequency operation. This can reduce traffic in the operating method of the fire alarm system (10). Therefore, a fire alarm system (10) with improved reliability and an operating method thereof can be provided.

[0112] A plurality of second sections and a plurality of third sections may be arranged after the first section. The plurality of second sections and the plurality of third sections may be provided alternately. The number of each of the plurality of second sections and the plurality of third sections may correspond to the number of the plurality of first sensing units (SM) connected to one repeater (200).

[0113] According to the present invention, each channel has a corresponding first sensing unit (SM) that outputs data, a command, or a response signal at a dedicated transmission time, thereby transmitting a communication check command and a response signal without interference to all first sensing units (SM) communicating with one repeater (200) without causing interference to other devices.

[0114]

[0115]

[0116]

[0117]

[0118]

[0119] Tables 2 to 6 above are tables illustrating the operation of repeaters 2 to 6 among multiple repeaters (200). In describing Tables 2 to 6 above, the same symbols are used for the components described in Table 1, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0120] The second repeater (200) and the first sensing units (SM) connected thereto may be defined as a second group. The third repeater (200) and the first sensing units (SM) connected thereto may be defined as a third group. The fourth repeater (200) and the first sensing units (SM) connected thereto may be defined as a fourth group. The fifth repeater (200) and the first sensing units (SM) connected thereto may be defined as a fifth group. The sixth repeater (200) and the first sensing units (SM) connected thereto may be defined as a sixth group.

[0121] In each of the rows showing the "order" in Tables 2 to 6 above, the first channel may be assigned the traffic vector of the repeater (200) of the corresponding group. In Table 2 above, the traffic vector of repeater No. 2 (200) may be assigned to 10 seconds. In Table 3 above, the traffic vector of repeater No. 3 (200) may be assigned to 20 seconds. In Table 4 above, the traffic vector of repeater No. 4 (200) may be assigned to 30 seconds. In Table 5 above, the traffic vector of repeater No. 5 (200) may be assigned to 40 seconds. In Table 6 above, the traffic vector of repeater No. 6 (200) may be assigned to 50 seconds.

[0122] The traffic vector of each of the multiple repeaters (200) can be allocated at 10-second intervals.

[0123] The second relay (200) can operate after the communication check operation of the first relay (200). The third relay (200) can operate after the communication check operation of the second relay (200). The fourth relay (200) can operate after the communication check operation of the third relay (200). The fifth relay (200) can operate after the communication check operation of the fourth relay (200). The sixth relay (200) can operate after the communication check operation of the fifth relay (200). That is, in the communication check mode (MD1), relays 1 to 6 can operate sequentially to perform communication checks with a plurality of first sensing units (SM).

[0124] The communication check mode (MD1) of each of repeaters 2 to 6 can operate substantially the same as the communication check mode (MD1) of repeater 1.

[0125] According to the present invention, each channel has a corresponding first sensing unit (SM) that outputs data, a command, or a response signal at a dedicated transmission time, thereby transmitting a communication check command and a response signal without interference to all first sensing units (SM) communicating with each of a plurality of repeaters (200) without causing interference to other devices. Accordingly, a fire alarm system (10) with improved reliability and an operating method thereof can be provided.

[0126] Furthermore, according to the present invention, the time for all 120 first sensing units (SM) assigned to each of a plurality of channels to perform a single communication check is approximately 59 seconds or less, and thus, three transmission opportunities can be provided within the communication check time limit of 200 seconds. Accordingly, a fire alarm system (10) capable of rapid communication checks and an operating method thereof can be provided.

[0127] FIG. 8 can operate in a fire retransmission mode according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0128] Referring to FIGS. 1, 5, and 8, when at least one of the plurality of first sensing units (SM) detects a new fire, a fire detection signal (SG-1a) may be generated. The fire detection signal (SG-1a) at this time may be referred to as an initial fire detection signal (SG-1a).

[0129] The first fire detection signal (SG-1a) can be transmitted to a plurality of repeaters (200) through a plurality of third sections designated as R in Table 1 in the communication check mode (MD1) and a plurality of fifth and sixth sections in the fire retransmission mode (MD2) described later.

[0130] After the initial fire detection signal (SG-1a) is transmitted, a retransmitted fire detection signal (SG-1a) generated or amplified from one of the adjacent other sensing units (SM) can be transmitted via the fire retransmission mode (MD2).

[0131] Unlike the present invention, when a fire is detected by a plurality of first sensing units (SM) due to a large-scale fire or the like, a large number of fire detection signals (SG-1a) may be generated from each of the first sensing units (SM). The possibility of interference occurring between the large number of fire detection signals (SG-1a) may increase. However, according to the present invention, the plurality of first sensing units (SM) and the plurality of repeaters (200) may operate in a fire retransmission mode (MD2) after the first fire detection signal (SG-1a) is generated. In the fire retransmission mode (MD2), the plurality of first sensing units (SM) and the plurality of repeaters (200) may configure a time division table based on a synchronization time, and each of the first sensing units (SM) may transmit a retransmission fire detection signal (SG-1a) at a predetermined time. A fire detection signal (SG-1a) generated or amplified after the initial fire detection signal (SG-1a) can be quickly transmitted to the corresponding repeater (200) without interference according to the fire retransmission mode (MD2). Therefore, a fire alarm system (10) with improved reliability and an operating method thereof can be provided.

[0132] The step of operating in the fire retransmission mode (MD2) may include a step in which a plurality of first sensing units (SM) sequentially transmit a retransmission fire detection signal (SG-1a) for a first time period, a step in which, after the step of transmitting the retransmission fire detection signal (SG-1a), data of a repeater (200) and the plurality of first sensing units (SM) are transmitted for a first time period, and a step in which the repeater (200) transmits a fire response signal (SG-1b) for the retransmission fire detection signal (SG-1a) to the plurality of first sensing units (SM) for a plurality of first time periods.

[0133]

[0134] Table 7 above illustrates the operation of the first group of multiple repeaters (200) that performs the fire retransmission mode (MD2). In describing Table 7, the same symbols are used for the components described in Table 1, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0135] In the row showing the "order number", the first channel can be defined as the traffic vector of the repeater (200) of the group. In Table 7 above, the traffic vector of repeater number 1 (200) can be assigned to 0 seconds.

[0136] In the row showing “number”, the numbers may be the numbers of the first sensing units (SM), and A1 to A6 may be sections in which the first repeater (200) transmits a fire response signal (SG-1b) to a plurality of first sensing units (SM).

[0137] The fire retransmission mode (MD2) may include a plurality of fourth segments, a plurality of fifth segments, and a sixth segment.

[0138] The first relay (200) can check whether all of the plurality of first sensing units (SM) belonging to the first group have transmitted a fire detection signal (SG-1a) (S310).

[0139] During a plurality of fourth sections, a plurality of first sensing units (SM) can sequentially transmit a fire detection signal (SG-1a) (S320). Each of the plurality of fourth sections can operate for a first time. Each of the plurality of fourth sections can be represented by a number in the row showing the “number” in Table 7. For example, during a section indicated by 1 in Table 7, a first first sensing module (SM) can transmit a fire detection signal (SG-1a), during a section indicated by 2, a second first sensing module (SM) can transmit a fire detection signal (SG-1a), and during a section indicated by 3, a third first sensing module (SM) can transmit a fire detection signal (SG-1a).

[0140] During a plurality of fifth sections, the first repeater (200) and each of the plurality of first sensing units (SM) can transmit data (S330). Each of the plurality of fifth sections can operate for a first time. Each of the plurality of fifth sections can be indicated by R in the row showing the "number" in Table 7 above. The plurality of fifth sections can be respectively arranged between the plurality of fourth sections.

[0141] The above data may include a first fire detection signal (SG-1a). The first fire detection signal (SG-1a) may refer to a fire detection signal (SG-1a) generated by a first sensing unit (SM) among a plurality of first sensing units (SM) that first detected a fire.

[0142] According to the present invention, the fire alarm system (10) can quickly recognize a new fire situation when operating in a fire retransmission mode (MD2) through a plurality of fifth sections. Therefore, a fire alarm system (10) with improved reliability and an operating method thereof can be provided.

[0143] When a plurality of first sensing units (SM) transmit a fire detection signal (SG-1a) during a plurality of fifth periods, the plurality of first sensing units (SM) may use an LBT communication method in which they listen for 20 ms during the first period and then transmit the fire detection signal (SG-1a). By distributing and processing data using this LBT communication method, collisions between signals in the same band can be prevented.

[0144] According to the present invention, the operating method of the fire alarm system (10) can utilize the LBT communication method only when necessary. That is, the LBT communication method, which requires a waiting time, can be used only in sudden fire situations, and during communication inspection periods, time can be divided and communication between designated devices can be performed at designated times, thereby promoting efficient frequency operation. This can reduce traffic in the operating method of the fire alarm system (10). Therefore, a fire alarm system (10) with improved reliability and an operating method thereof can be provided.

[0145] Multiple fifth sections can perform substantially the same role as multiple third sections.

[0146] A plurality of fourth sections and a plurality of fifth sections may be provided alternately. The number of each of the plurality of fourth sections and the plurality of fifth sections may correspond to the number of the plurality of first sensing units (SM) connected to one repeater (200).

[0147] The bandwidth of each of the fire detection signal (SG-1a) and the fire response signal (SG-1b) may be less than 1%. That is, the fire detection signal (SG-1a) and the fire response signal (SG-1b) may operate in a narrowband.

[0148] When all of the first sensing units (SM) transmit a retransmission fire detection signal (SG-1a), it can operate in the 6th section.

[0149] During the 6th section, the repeater (200) can transmit a fire response signal (SG-1b) to a retransmission fire detection signal (SG-1a) to a plurality of first sensing units (SM) for a plurality of first times (S340).

[0150] The sixth segment may be placed after multiple fourth segments and multiple fifth segments. The sixth segment may run for ten first time periods. For example, the sixth segment may run for two seconds.

[0151] The sixth segment may include multiple parts (A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6). Each of the multiple parts (A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6) may be assigned a transmission time of 300 ms.

[0152] The plurality of parts (A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6) may include a first part (A1), a second part (A2), a third part (A3), a fourth part (A4), a fifth part (A5), and a sixth part (A6). The number of the plurality of parts (A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6) may be equal to the number of the plurality of repeaters (200) operating in the frequency band.

[0153] For example, a repeater (200) that has received a retransmission fire detection signal (SG-1a) can transmit all fire response signals (SG-1b) to a plurality of first sensing units (SM) of the first group belonging to it as one packet during the first part (A1).

[0154] The second repeater (200) that has received the retransmission fire detection signal (SG-1a) can transmit all fire response signals (SG-1b) to a plurality of first sensing units (SM) of the second group belonging to it as one packet during the second part (A2).

[0155] The third repeater (200) that has received the retransmission fire detection signal (SG-1a) can transmit all fire response signals (SG-1b) to the plurality of first sensing units (SM) of the third group belonging to it as one packet during the third part (A3).

[0156] The 4th relay (200) that has received the retransmission fire detection signal (SG-1a) can transmit all fire response signals (SG-1b) to the plurality of first sensing units (SM) of the 4th group belonging to it as one packet during the 4th part (A4).

[0157] The fifth repeater (200) that has received the retransmission fire detection signal (SG-1a) can transmit all fire response signals (SG-1b) to the plurality of first sensing units (SM) of the fifth group belonging to it as one packet during the fifth part (A5).

[0158] The 6th repeater (200) that has received the retransmission fire detection signal (SG-1a) can transmit all fire response signals (SG-1b) to the plurality of first sensing units (SM) of the 6th group belonging to it as one packet during the 6th part (A6).

[0159] At this time, the first sensing unit (SM) that has not received the fire response signal (SG-1b) from the corresponding repeater (200) can retransmit the fire response signal (SG-1b) using at least one of the plurality of fifth intervals of the communication time of another repeater (200).

[0160] During the 6th section, the first fire detection signal (SG-1a) generated from another group or another first sensing unit (SM) of the group may be received.

[0161] According to the present invention, the fire alarm system (10) can quickly recognize a fire situation when a fire occurs while operating in the fire retransmission mode (MD2) through the sixth section. Therefore, a fire alarm system (10) with improved reliability and an operating method thereof can be provided.

[0162] When a plurality of first sensing units (SM) transmit a fire detection signal (SG-1a) during the 6th section, the plurality of first sensing units (SM) may use an LBT communication method in which they listen to each of the plurality of sections (A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6) for 100 ms and then transmit the fire detection signal (SG-1a). By distributing and processing data using this LBT communication method, collisions between signals in the same band can be prevented.

[0163] According to the present invention, the operating method of the fire alarm system (10) can utilize the LBT communication method only when necessary. That is, the LBT communication method, which requires a waiting time, can be used only in sudden fire situations, and during communication inspection periods, time can be divided and communication between designated devices can be performed at designated times, thereby promoting efficient frequency operation. This can reduce traffic in the operating method of the fire alarm system (10). Therefore, a fire alarm system (10) with improved reliability and an operating method thereof can be provided.

[0164]

[0165]

[0166]

[0167]

[0168]

[0169] Tables 8 to 12 above are tables illustrating the operations of groups 2 to 6 performing fire retransmission mode (MD2) among multiple repeaters (200). In describing Tables 8 to 12, the same drawing reference numerals are used for components described in FIG. 7, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0170] In each row of Tables 8 to 12, each "order" may be assigned to the first channel by the traffic vector of the repeater (200) of the corresponding group. In Table 8, the traffic vector of repeater No. 2 (200) may be assigned to 10 seconds. In Table 9, the traffic vector of repeater No. 3 (200) may be assigned to 20 seconds. In Table 10, the traffic vector of repeater No. 4 (200) may be assigned to 30 seconds. In Table 11, the traffic vector of repeater No. 5 (200) may be assigned to 40 seconds. In Table 12, the traffic vector of repeater No. 6 (200) may be assigned to 50 seconds.

[0171] The fire retransmission mode (MD2) of each of the second to sixth groups may operate substantially identically to the fire retransmission mode (MD2) of the first group.

[0172] While the present invention has been described above with reference to preferred embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art or those with ordinary knowledge in the art that various modifications and changes can be made to the present invention without departing from the spirit and technical scope of the present invention as set forth in the claims below. Accordingly, the technical scope of the present invention should not be limited to the contents described in the detailed description of the specification, but should be defined by the claims.

[0173] In fire alarm systems, communication inspection mode and fire retransmission mode can be used to divide time and allow communication between designated devices at designated times, thereby promoting efficient frequency management. This can reduce traffic in the fire alarm system's operation. Therefore, the present invention, which relates to a fire alarm system, has high industrial applicability.

Claims

1. A plurality of first sensing units that detect the occurrence of a fire and transmit a fire detection signal that is generated or amplified by a signal received; and A plurality of repeaters including a first repeater that performs wireless communication with the plurality of first sensing units, The plurality of first sensing units and the plurality of repeaters operate in a communication check mode or a fire retransmission mode in which time is divided into a plurality of first time periods, The above communication check mode is, A first section in which the first relay transmits a communication check command to the plurality of first sensing units for a plurality of first times at a preset time; A plurality of second sections in which the plurality of first sensing units sequentially transmit a response signal to the communication check command for the first time period; and A fire alarm system comprising a plurality of third sections each disposed between the plurality of second sections, each of which transmits data of the first repeater and each of the plurality of first sensing units for the first time.

2. In paragraph 1, A fire alarm system wherein the plurality of second sections and the plurality of third sections are placed after the first section.

3. In paragraph 1, A fire alarm system wherein the first time is 200ms (milliseconds).

4. In paragraph 1, A fire alarm system in which the repeater is in constant operation during the above communication check mode.

5. In paragraph 1, A fire alarm system wherein the bandwidth of each of the above communication inspection command and the response signal to the above communication inspection command is less than 1%.

6. In paragraph 1, The above fire retransmission mode is, A plurality of fourth sections in which the plurality of first sensing units sequentially transmit the fire detection signal for the first time period; A plurality of fifth sections each arranged between the plurality of fourth sections, each transmitting the data of the first repeater and the plurality of first sensing units for the first time; and A fire alarm system comprising a sixth section in which the first relay transmits a fire response signal for the fire detection signal to the plurality of first sensing units for a plurality of first times.

7. In paragraph 6, The fire alarm system wherein the sixth section is placed after the plurality of fourth sections and the plurality of fifth sections.

8. In paragraph 6, The above data includes the fire detection signal, A fire alarm system in which the fire detection signal is transmitted to the plurality of repeaters through the plurality of third sections, the plurality of fifth sections, and the sixth section.

9. In paragraph 8, A fire alarm system using an LBT (Listen Before Transmission) communication method during the plurality of third sections, the plurality of fifth sections, and the sixth section, wherein the fire detection signal is transmitted.

10. In paragraph 1, A fire alarm system in which the plurality of first sensing units and the plurality of relays are time-synchronized with each other.

11. A method of operating a fire alarm system including a plurality of first sensing units and a first relay that detect the occurrence of a fire and transmit a fire detection signal that is generated or amplified by a signal received, The step of operating the plurality of first sensing units and the first relay in a communication check mode or a fire retransmission mode in which the plurality of first sensing units and the first relay operate by dividing the time into a plurality of first time periods, The steps for operating in the above communication check mode are: A step in which the first relay transmits a communication check command to the plurality of first sensing units for a plurality of first times at a preset time; A step in which the plurality of first sensing units sequentially transmit a response signal to the communication check command for the first time; and A step of transmitting data of the first repeater and the plurality of first sensing units for the first time period after the step of transmitting the response signal, The steps for operating in the above fire retransmission mode are: A step in which the plurality of first sensing units sequentially transmit the fire detection signal for the first time period; A step of transmitting the data of the first repeater and the plurality of first sensing units for the first time period after the step of transmitting the fire detection signal; and A method of operating a fire alarm system, comprising the step of the first relay transmitting a fire response signal for the fire detection signal to the plurality of first sensing units for a plurality of first times.

12. In paragraph 11, A fire alarm system operating method in which the above fire detection signal is transmitted to the first relay through the step of transmitting the fire response signal and the step of transmitting the data.

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