Alarm unit

Abstract

An alarm unit (50) is configured for coupling to an installed base plate (10) having a terminal block for connection to a mains supply. The alarm unit (50) comprises an alarm sensor for detecting a hazard condition including smoke, heat, fire and / or carbon monoxide, and one or more electrical contacts arranged to engage corresponding contacts associated with the terminal block when the alarm unit (50) is coupled to the base plate (10) to supply mains power. An alignment feature is arranged to cooperate with a complementary alignment feature of the base plate (10) to position the alarm unit (50) in at least one permitted orientation, and a coupling arrangement mechanically retains the alarm unit (50) on the base plate (10), optionally via relative sliding engagement. An external perimeter of the alarm unit (50) is configured to match a footprint of the base plate (10), optionally providing a substantially continuous outer surface.

Description

AL-HISPEC-PA-013GBALARM UNITTECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present application relates to an alarm unit, and in particular an alarm unit that interacts with an existing alarm base plate.BACKGROUND

[0002] Smoke, fire and / or carbon monoxide alarms are an important safety feature in modem homes. It has been known for some time to provide these devices to ensure adequate fire safety and to meet regulations. This is especially important in rental properties, larger installations for commercial properties or unified residential properties and for other properties with interlinked alarms or the like, such as hotels, residential halls and the like.

[0003] New installations of such alarm units require the provision of a base plate, which is electrically connected to a mains supply, and can also include the use of main-wired interconnections. However, whilst new installations can be fitted with a base plate that matches the main alarm unit supplied by the manufacturer this can limit upgrade or replacement possibilities.

[0004] Accordingly, there are a number of compromises needed in order to try and install or update such alarm units.

[0005] It is an object of the present invention to at least ameliorate the above-mentioned issues.SUMMARY

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided an alarm unit for coupling to an installed base plate having a terminal block for connection to a mains supply, said alarm unit comprising: an alarm sensor configured to detect a hazard condition such as smoke, heat, fire and / or carbon monoxide; one or more electrical contacts configured, when the alarm unit is coupled to the base plate, to electrically engage corresponding contactsAL-HISPEC-PA-013GBassociated with the terminal block to supply mains power to the alarm unit; an alignment feature configured to cooperate with a complementary alignment feature of the base plate to position the alarm unit relative to the base plate in at least one permitted orientation; and a coupling arrangement configured to engage a complementary coupling formation of the base plate to mechanically retain the alarm unit on the base plate; wherein an external perimeter of the alarm unit is configured to match a footprint of the base plate when the alarm unit is coupled to the base plate.

[0007] The present invention allows an alarm unit to be installed onto an existing or newly installed base plate. The use of an alignment means ensures that the installation provides a quick and easy way for an installer to attach the alarm unit to the mounting location. Accordingly, retrofitting is possible, as is a later installation of the alarm unit at a later time than installation of the base plate.

[0008] The alarm unit may comprise a battery for providing backup power to the alarm unit. Coupling of the alarm unit to the base plate can electrically connect the alarm sensor to the battery. In embodiments, the alarm unit may comprise a battery isolation arrangement configured to hold the battery electrically disconnected from alarm electronics prior to installation, wherein coupling the alarm unit to the base plate actuates the battery isolation arrangement to electrically connect the battery to the alarm electronics.

[0009] The alarm unit may comprise a housing. The housing may comprising an external rim around the periphery of the alarm unit, n embodiments the alignment feature may comprise a cutaway configured to engage with a corresponding projection on the base plate such that the external rim forms a continuous surface when the alarm unit is installed onto the base plate. In embodiments, in the coupled state, an external perimeter region of the alarm unit and an outer perimeter region of the base plate may define a substantially continuous outer surface.

[0010] In some embodiments the cutaway may provide access to an opening in the housing. The opening can comprise electrical contacts of the alarm unit for engagement with corresponding electrical contacts on or adjacent to the terminal block.

[0011] The alarm unit may comprise an electrical safety circuit, said circuit configured to check a connection integrity of the mains supply.AL-HISPEC-PA-013GB

[0012] The alarm unit may also be configured to provide an alert in response to detection of a degraded neutral connection, the detection being based on at least one of increased contact resistance and intermittent neutral continuity within the terminal block and / or between the terminal block and the electrical contacts of the alarm unit.

[0013] The terminal block may comprise a live terminal, a neutral terminal, an earth terminal, and an interconnect terminal for electrically interconnecting the alarm unit with one or more further alarm units. The alarm unit may be configured to operate in a hard-wired interconnect mode in which the interconnect terminal is electrically connected to a corresponding interconnect conductor, and a wireless interconnect mode in which the interconnect terminal is left unconnected. In embodiments, the alarm unit may comprise a module interface configured to receive a removable communications module, the communications module comprising intercommunication electronics arranged to communicate with other alarm units comprising corresponding communications modules. The alarm unit may comprise a test function configured, in response to actuation of a test input, to trigger one or more interconnected alarm units via the interconnect terminal and / or the communications module.

[0014] The base plate may comprise a removable terminal cover configured to cover the terminal block after connection of conductors thereto. In embodiments, the electrical contacts and the coupling arrangement may be configured such that, during coupling, a relative sliding movement between the alarm unit and the base plate causes (i) engagement of the electrical contacts with the terminal block and (ii) engagement of the coupling arrangement with the complementary coupling formation to retain the alarm unit on the base plate. The present invention allows for replacement or retrofit scenarios, since an installer can replace the alarm unit while re-using an installed base plate and existing mains wiring, thereby reducing installation time, avoiding disturbance to ceiling or wall finishes, and minimising downtime in premises having multiple alarm mounting locations.

[0015] In embodiments, the coupling arrangement and electrical contacts may be configured so that the alarm unit is installed using a guided relative motion, for example a sliding movement, a sliding and pressing movement, and / or a combined sliding and rotational movement, such that electrical engagement with the terminal block and mechanical retentionAL-HISPEC-PA-013GBon the base plate are achieved in a single installation action. This can reduce the risk of incorrect installation and can provide consistent electrical contact pressure.

[0016] In embodiments, the interconnect functionality provides flexibility in installation. A hard-wired interconnect mode can be used where interconnect conductors are present, while a wireless interconnect mode can be used where wiring is absent or undesirable. The removable communications module can facilitate upgrading an installed population of alarms to wireless intercommunication without modifying the base plate wiring, and may allow different communication technologies to be supported using different modules.

[0017] In embodiments, the test function enables verification of correct installation and / or correct interconnect operation, and can trigger one or more interconnected alarm units via the interconnect terminal and / or the communications module, thereby assisting commissioning and ongoing maintenance.

[0018] According to another embodiment of the present invention there is provided an alarm unit for fitting on a base plate, said base plate comprising a mounting elements for attaching to a ceiling or wall, a terminal block for receiving a mains supply, and attachment means for receiving and securing the alarm unit; said alarm unit comprising: an alarm element for detecting an abnormal room condition such as smoke, heat, fire or carbon monoxide; one or more electrical connectors for engaging with the terminal block to electrically power the alarm element; alignment means for positioning the alarm unit relative to the base plate; and securing means for engaging the attachment means to couple the alarm unit to the base plate; and wherein the alarm unit is shaped to substantially align with the base plate.

[0019] In embodiments, the alarm unit may further comprise an adaptor plate configured for installation on a pre-existing base plate, the adaptor plate comprising a complementary alignment feature for cooperation with the alignment feature of the alarm unit to position the alarm unit relative to the pre-existing base plate in at least one permitted orientation. The adaptor plate may also be configured to define an outer perimeter region such that, in the coupled state, the adaptor plate provides a substantially matched footprint of the alarm unit and / or forms a substantially continuous outer surface with an external perimeter region of the alarm unit.AL-HISPEC-PA-013GB

[0020] According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of installing an alarm unit according to any embodiment of the first aspect, said method comprising the steps of: preparing a base plate at an alarm mounting location by connecting and / or checking a mains supply connection to a terminal block of the base plate; aligning the alarm unit relative to the base plate using cooperating alignment features; and moving the alarm unit relative to the base plate to engage electrical contacts of the alarm unit with corresponding contacts associated with the terminal block and to mechanically retain the alarm unit on the base plate via a coupling arrangement.

[0021] This method allows for easy installation of an alarm unit onto an existing base plate.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGSThe invention will now be described with reference to the following figures in which:

[0022] Figure la shows a schematic of a base plate for an alarm unit according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure lb shows a schematic of an alarm unit according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 1c shows a side view of the alarm unit of Figure lb connected to the base plate of Figure la.

[0025] Figure 2a shows a diagrammatic view of the base plate of Figure la.

[0026] Figure 2b shows a diagrammatic view of the alarm unit of Figure lb being installed onto the base plate of Figure 2a.

[0027] Figure 2c shows a rear view of the alarm unit of Figure lb.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] Figure la shows a base plate 10 for an alarm unit. The base plate comprises mounting elements 12 for attaching to a ceiling or wall, a terminal block 62 for receiving a mains supply, and attachment means for receiving and securing the alarm unit.

[0029] Figure lb shows an alarm unit 50 configured to attach to the base plate 10, with Figure 1c showing the alarm unit connected to the base plate.AL-HISPEC-PA-013GB

[0030] Figure 2a shows an alternative view of the base plate 10. The base plate has a terminal block. The base plate has four labelled terminals within the terminal block namely Live, Neutral, Earth and Interconnect. A cover 60 is shown in an exploded view in Figure 2a.

[0031] The following steps are used to mount the alarm unit:1. Locate a preexisting alarm location.2. Separate the alarm base plate 10 from the alarm unit 50.3. Check the Live, Neutral, and Interconnect (if applicable) wires from a mains supply according to the specified strip length. A side access panel 32 may be removed to aid access.4. Remove the terminal cover 60 to access the terminals 62, from the base plate 10 to check the connections.5. Check the connection of the wires to the corresponding terminals 62 on the flush mounting base. Make sure to securely tighten the screws.Note: If it is desired to interconnect the fire alarms, a central interconnect terminal IC on the alarm mounting base can be connected. If an alternative such as radiofrequency is used, this contact can be left empty. The interconnect terminal of the fire alarm is for direct hard wire connections with other alarm units / alarm devices.6. Reattach the terminal cover 60.This is broadly shown in Figure 2a.

[0032] To install the alarm unit, the following steps are made:1. Align the screwdriver symbol 70 on the alarm unit 50 with the fixing latch 72 on the mounting base 10.2. Slide and firmly push the alarm unit 50 until it clicks into place on the base plate 10. Sliding engagement causes electrical engagement of the contacts 64 on the alarm unit 50 with the terminal block 62 and mechanical retention via the latch / coupling arrangement 70 / 72. In embodiments, the battery within the alarm unit 50 is electrically connected when the alarm unit is inserted into the mounting base.Note: The battery will activate once the alarm unit is inserted into the mounting base. It is designed to provide a 10-year lifespan during regular operation.3. The alarm unit 50 is now securely attached to the mounting base, switch the permanent mains supply on to power the alarm. A green LED will be illuminated on the front to indicate mains power, a red flashing LED will illuminate every 40-60 seconds to signalAL-HISPEC-PA-013GBnormal operation. If any other sequence of flashing LEDs occur, this can be indicative of an error.4. Press and HOLD the test button for up to 20 seconds, the alarm will sound and trigger any other interconnected units within this period.This is broadly shown in Figure 2b.

[0033] Figure 2c shows a rear view of the alarm unit. This shows a module 80 that can be installed into the alarm unit. The module 80 comprises intercommunication electronics to allow the alarm unit 50 to communicate with other alarm units comprising similar modules.

[0034] The alarm unit comprises a housing that has an external perimeter or rim 40. A cutaway 42 within the perimeter of the housing is configured to cooperate or engage with a corresponding protrusion 44 on the base plate, to provide a keying arrangement with the cutaway. This ensures that the alarm unit substantially matches the footprint of the base plate to provide a substantially seamless finish.

[0035] The installation method allows for an alarm unit 50 to be installed on an existing base plate 10 without the need to replace and reinstall a new base plate. This allows for updating and easier maintenance of the overall alarm. This can be particularly beneficial in commercial or industrial installations which may have multiple alarms that require regular replacement or maintenance.

[0036] In embodiments, an adaptor plate may be fixed to a pre-existing base plate, the adaptor plate comprising a complementary alignment feature configured to cooperate with the alignment feature of the alarm unit to position the alarm unit in a permitted orientation, and optionally defining an outer perimeter region that matches the footprint of the alarm unit and / or forms a substantially continuous outer surface with the alarm unit. The adaptor plate may additionally provide a coupling formation for engagement with the coupling arrangement.

[0037] The foregoing disclosure provides illustration and description but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the implementations to the precise form disclosed. Modifications may be made in light of the above disclosure or may be acquired from practice of the implementations. As used herein, the term “component” is intended to be broadly construed asAL-HISPEC-PA-013GBhardware, firmware, or a combination of hardware and software, ft will be apparent that systems and / or methods described herein may be implemented in different forms of hardware, firmware, and / or a combination of hardware and software. The actual specialized control hardware or software code used to implement these systems and / or methods is not limiting of the implementations. Thus, the operation and behaviour of the systems and / or methods are described herein without reference to specific software code - it being understood that software and hardware can be used to implement the systems and / or methods based on the description herein. As used herein, satisfying a threshold may, depending on the context, refer to a value being greater than the threshold, greater than or equal to the threshold, less than the threshold, less than or equal to the threshold, equal to the threshold, and / or the like, depending on the context. Although particular combinations of features are recited in the claims and / or disclosed in the specification, these combinations are not intended to limit the disclosure of various implementations. In fact, many of these features may be combined in ways not specifically recited in the claims and / or disclosed in the specification.

[0038] Although each dependent claim listed below may directly depend on only one claim, the disclosure of various implementations includes each dependent claim in combination with every other claim in the claim set. No element, act, or instruction used herein should be construed as critical or essential unless explicitly described as such. Also, as used herein, the articles “a” and “an” are intended to include one or more items and may be used interchangeably with “one or more.” Further, as used herein, the article “the” is intended to include one or more items referenced in connection with the article “the” and may be used interchangeably with “the one or more.” Furthermore, as used herein, the term “set” is intended to include one or more items (e.g., related items, unrelated items, a combination of related and unrelated items, and / or the like), and may be used interchangeably with “one or more.” Where only one item is intended, the phrase “only one” or similar language is used. Also, as used herein, the terms “has,” “have,” “having,” or the like are intended to be open-ended terms. Further, the phrase “based on” is intended to mean “based, at least in part, on” unless explicitly stated otherwise. Also, as used herein, the term “or” is intended to be inclusive when used in a series and may be used interchangeably with “and / or,” unless explicitly stated otherwise (e.g., if used in combination with “either” or “only one of’).

Claims

AL-HISPEC-PA-013GBCLAIMS:

1. An alarm unit for coupling to an installed base plate having a terminal block for connection to a mains supply, said alarm unit comprising:an alarm sensor configured to detect a hazard condition such as smoke, heat, fire and / or carbon monoxide;one or more electrical contacts configured, when the alarm unit is coupled to the base plate, to electrically engage corresponding contacts associated with the terminal block to supply the mains power to the alarm unit;an alignment feature configured to cooperate with a complementary alignment feature of the base plate to position the alarm unit relative to the base plate in at least one permitted orientation; anda coupling arrangement configured to engage a complementary coupling formation of the base plate to mechanically retain the alarm unit on the base plate;wherein an external perimeter of the alarm unit is configured to match a footprint of the base plate when the alarm unit is coupled to the base plate.

2. The alarm unit of claim 1 , wherein, in the coupled state, an external perimeter region of the alarm unit and an outer perimeter region of the base plate define a substantially continuous outer surface.

3. The alarm unit of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the alarm unit comprises a battery for providing backup power to the alarm unit, and wherein coupling of the alarm unit to the base plate electrically connects the alarm sensor to the battery.

4. The alarm unit of any preceding claim, wherein the alarm unit comprises a housing having an external perimeter or rim, and wherein the alignment feature comprises a cutaway configured to engage with a corresponding projection on the base plate such that the external perimeter or rim forms a continuous surface when the alarm unit is installed onto the base plate.

5. The alarm unit of claim 4, wherein the cutaway provides access to an opening in the housing, said opening comprising electrical contacts of the alarm unit for engagement with corresponding electrical contacts on or adjacent to the terminal block.AL-HISPEC-PA-013GB6. The alarm unit of any preceding claim, wherein the alarm unit comprises an electrical safety circuit configured to check a connection integrity of the mains supply.

7. The alarm unit of claim 6, wherein the alarm unit is configured to provide an alert in response to detection of a degraded neutral connection, the detection being based on at least one of increased contact resistance and intermittent neutral continuity within the terminal block and / or between the terminal block and the electrical contacts of the alarm unit.

8. The alarm unit of claim 3, wherein the alarm unit comprises a battery isolation arrangement configured to hold the battery electrically disconnected from alarm electronics prior to installation, and wherein coupling the alarm unit to the base plate actuates the battery isolation arrangement to electrically connect the battery to the alarm electronics.

9. The alarm unit of any preceding claim, wherein the electrical contacts and the coupling arrangement are configured such that, during coupling, a relative sliding movement between the alarm unit and the base plate causes (i) engagement of the electrical contacts with the terminal block and (ii) engagement of the coupling arrangement with the complementary coupling formation to retain the alarm unit on the base plate.

10. The alarm unit of any preceding claim, wherein the terminal block comprises a live terminal, a neutral terminal, an earth terminal, and an interconnect terminal for electrically interconnecting the alarm unit with one or more further alarm units.

11. The alarm unit of claim 10, wherein the base plate comprises a removable terminal cover configured to cover the terminal block after connection of conductors thereto.

12. The alarm unit of claim 10 or claim 11, wherein the alarm unit is configured to operate in:(a) a hard-wired interconnect mode in which the interconnect terminal is electrically connected to a corresponding interconnect conductor; and(b) a wireless interconnect mode in which the interconnect terminal is left unconnected.AL-HISPEC-PA-013GB13. The alarm unit of claim 12, comprising a module interface configured to receive a removable communications module, the communications module comprising intercommunication electronics arranged to communicate with other alarm units comprising corresponding communications modules.

14. The alarm unit of claim 10, claim 11, claim 12 or claim 13, wherein the alarm unit comprises a test function configured, in response to actuation of a test input, to trigger one or more interconnected alarm units via the interconnect terminal and / or the communications module.

15. The alarm unit of any preceding claim, wherein the alarm unit is configured to be installed on a pre-existing base plate without replacement of the base plate.

16. The alarm unit of claim 15, wherein the alarm unit further comprises an adaptor plate configured for installation on the pre-existing base plate, said adaptor plate comprising the complementary alignment feature for cooperation with the alignment feature of the alarm unit to position the alarm unit relative to the pre-existing base plate in the at least one permitted orientation.

17. The alarm unit of claim 16, wherein the adaptor plate is configured such that, when installed on the pre-existing base plate and coupled to the alarm unit, an external perimeter region of the alarm unit and an outer perimeter region defined by the adaptor plate and the preexisting base plate provide a substantially matched footprint and / or a substantially continuous outer surface.

18. A method of installing an alarm unit according to any preceding claim, said method comprising the steps of:preparing a base plate at an alarm mounting location by connecting and / or checking a mains supply connection to a terminal block of the base plate;aligning the alarm unit relative to the base plate using cooperating alignment features; andmoving the alarm unit relative to the base plate to engage electrical contacts of the alarm unit with corresponding contacts associated with the terminal block and to mechanically retain the alarm unit on the base plate via a coupling arrangement.

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