DE20017217U1 - Multifunctional remote monitoring device - Google Patents

Description

HWG Telekommunikationssysteme GmbH &khgr; HL-1005/002/UMB 6.10.2000

MULTIFUNCTIONAL REMOTE MONITORING DEVICE

The invention relates to an alarm and remote monitoring device.

Alarm and monitoring systems for businesses and offices that are connected to the telephone network are known, for example, from DE-OS 198 15 767 Al. They usually comprise several control units that are connected to one or more detectors via cable or radio, e.g. with infrared motion detectors, pressure sensors, door and window sensors, glass break detectors, smoke and water detectors, etc. If one of the sensors reports an event, the control unit sets off an alarm siren and an alarm is given by telephone.

DE-OS 198 15 767 A1 describes in particular a radio property security system with at least one locking unit, an alarm device (such as a siren or a telephone dialer) and other functional units, whereby all system units and the control unit have an identical communication element, e.g. a UHF transmitter and receiver, so that the units can communicate with each other. The disadvantage of this system is that it is prone to false alarms and, due to its technical complexity, can only be installed by a specialist company. In addition, it must be constantly ensured that the alarm message is received and correctly interpreted, which can ultimately only be guaranteed by a police station or a security and locking company.

Such alarm and monitoring devices are too expensive for private use because of the telephone and cable installations and the connections between the detectors and the central control unit. The services of the security and locking company or the police also cost money. The programming effort should not be underestimated either.

It must be ensured that the control unit responds to the detector signals correctly and as specified. The remote monitoring systems used to date are therefore overly complex, expensive and not sufficiently adaptable for private use.
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The object of the invention is to provide an alarm and monitoring system which overcomes the disadvantages of previous systems. In particular, an alarm and monitoring system is to be provided which is inexpensive to manufacture, does not look bulky or is camouflaged for the burglar, requires comparatively little mechanical and electrical installation, causes hardly any operating and maintenance costs, is compatible with existing equipment and electrical installations, is easy to set up and can be used in the private sector, but which on the other hand also provides reliable alarm and monitoring functions.

This object is achieved by an alarm and monitoring device according to claim 1. Advantageous embodiments of the innovation are described in the subclaims.

The invention and its advantages are described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. It shows: 25

Fig. 1A is a photograph of the alarm device according to the invention with the keypad cover open;

Fig. IB the alarm device of Fig. IA, with the keypad cover closed;

Fig. 2 the rear of the alarm device of Fig. IA and B;

Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram of the circuit with the main

elements of the alarm system;

Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram of the keypad circuit and the control circuit of the alarm system;

Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram of the circuit of the RF unit of the alarm system;

Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram of the passive infrared motion detector circuit;

Fig. 7 is a diagrammatic representation of an alarm device disguised as a clock radio according to a second embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 8 shows the circuit diagram of the alarm device according to the second embodiment.

See Figures IA, IB and 2. The alarm device 10 according to the invention is compact and not very bulky, as it is only a few centimeters high and wide. An operator keypad 1, a passive infrared motion detector 2 and a siren 3 are integrated into the housing 8 of the alarm device 10. LEDs 12a, 12b are on the housing, which show the operator the operating status of the system. The keypad 1 has a closable flap 9, see Fig. 2, so that the device is less conspicuous and the keypad 1 is protected against accidental input. On the back of the alarm device 10 (see Fig. 1A) there is a battery compartment 4, a connection 6 for the power supply, for example to a 12V plug-in power supply, as well as one or more sockets and 0 interfaces for external sensors and detectors, for example for smoke and water detectors, etc. In addition, a recess 11 is provided at the back of the housing so that the device 10 can be attached to the wall, for example to a screw. The alarm device 10 can of course also be set up free-standing.

Although the alarm device in Fig. 1 is provided with a connection 6 for a plug-in power supply, it remains operational even in the event of a power failure. The battery compartment 4 contains an emergency battery for this case. The connection 6 for the plug-in power supply can also be omitted if the device is to run on battery power only.

The alarm device in Fig. 1 has a connection 5 to the telephone network. Alternatively, the telephone connection can also be made wirelessly, for example via a radio connection with a DECT base station, where it is then registered as another cordless telephone unit. Furthermore, the connection to the digital telephone network (ISDN) or to the digital mobile radio network (e.g. GSM) is provided in a convenient implementation.

Figures 3 to 6 show the main circuit blocks of the alarm devices.

0 The alarm system includes a plug-in power supply 31, which in this case supplies 12V. The power can also come from a 9V block battery. The voltages required to operate the circuit are +12V and +5V.

The alarm device further comprises a siren, for example a buzzer circuit 32 with a piezoelectric sounder (see 3 in Fig. 1).

The central control unit further comprises one or more 0 interfaces 33 and internal plug connections 40, 42, e.g.

for connection to a passive infrared motion detector (see Figure 6). If required, other internal and external sensors can also be connected to the central control unit via these interfaces.
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The alarm device includes a telephone dialling circuit 34 so that the unit can be dialled by means of a multi-frequency tone dialling

generator 50 pre-programmed telephone numbers. A circuit 35 is also provided for sending a recorded text. This is stored in the memory (for example a ROM, RAM/EPROM, etc.) as the message to be sent in the event of an alarm as soon as the control unit has reached one of the pre-programmed telephone numbers. This message is repeated regularly, for example via an endless loop. The alarm unit can also send a pre-selected tone signal to the telephone line, or another signal so that the person called can identify the alarm unit. In a preferred embodiment, a microphone and a speech processor are also provided so that the operator can store various individual alarm messages in the memory 35.

The alarm device also includes (see Fig. 4) a keypad circuit 37 (see 1 in Fig. 1) and a processor circuit 38 which implements the inputs on the keypad, sets up the device as described below, and switches the LEDs 12a, 12b. It can also react to other signals as appropriate, for example, to the signal from a passive infrared motion detector 2 (not shown in Figs. 3 or 4), operate the siren circuit 32 and activate the telephone dialing circuit 34. The processor circuit 38 also operates the LEDs 12a, 12b so that the operator can read the operating status of the alarm unit.

Finally, the alarm unit comprises an RF receiver circuit 39, see Fig. 5. The RF circuit 39 can receive a radio signal from a remote control (not shown) via the antenna 0 13, which then arms or disarms the alarm device. The output from the RF circuit 39, which responds to the radio signals from the remote control, goes to the processor circuit 3 8 for further processing. By using a remote control to activate or deactivate the alarm device, the operator is prevented from needing a separate key for this. The

Remote control also makes it easier to activate or deactivate the alarm device 10. Since the alarm device can be armed or disarmed without the operator having to approach the alarm device, there is no risk of the operator inadvertently triggering an alarm when switching the system on or off, causing the siren 3 to sound or the system to make a telephone call.

For safety reasons, the remote control must be registered in advance as a signal transmitter for activating or deactivating the alarm device. This and other operating and standby states of the control circuit 3 8 are now described.

The alarm device is protected by an access code or PIN. The PIN is stored in the memory of the processor circuit 38. To set up or modify the functions of the alarm device, the user must first enter the secret PIN number on the keypad 1 each time.

To register the remote control, the operator must enter the corresponding access code on the keypad 37 and then operate the remote control, for example by pressing the buttons to switch the alarm system on and off.

The remote control then sends a signal to the alarm device, with each remote control sending a signal with a unique code to the control unit so that it is registered as a remote control with the alarm device. Done. Nothing else needs to be programmed. The remote control can then be used to arm or disarm the alarm device. In this way, several remote controls can also be registered with the alarm device so that, for example, each member of the household has their own remote control for the alarm device.

Of course, you can also activate or deactivate the alarm device without the remote control. To do this, you only have to

enter the access code on keypad 1 and then press the corresponding additional key ("#" or "*"). This will arm or disarm the alarm system. If the alarm device is to be able to be armed via the keypad, the alarm must be delayed by a certain time, for example 30 seconds. The user can then move out of the range of the alarm unit within this time. To switch the system off, the operator must quickly go to the alarm device, enter the code and then press the button to switch off the alarm system. A time frame must therefore be specified, for example 15 seconds, between the first time movement is detected by the motion detector and the alarm being triggered.

Depending on the setting made by the operator via the keypad, the entry of a code and a PIN number, it can also be specified whether the alarm unit is armed immediately when armed via a remote control or only after a certain period of time, for example after 3 0 seconds.

Optionally, you can also specify that an alarm ("panic alarm") is triggered immediately when the arming or disarming button on the remote control is pressed at the same time, regardless of whether the infrared motion detector or one of the auxiliary detectors detects something or not.

After entering the code on the keypad 1 and selecting the other function keys, the user can then optionally switch off the 0 siren 3. In the event of an alarm, no audible signal is given but the specified telephone numbers are called (silent alarm). By entering the access code and pressing the corresponding function keys, the motion detector can also be switched off, for example 5 if the operator only wants to rely on external sensors connected to the alarm device.

The predefined telephone numbers can be entered on keypad 1 after entering the code. Several telephone numbers can be entered, for example three. The alarm device can also be set to call the telephone numbers in sequence in the event that, for example, one or more numbers are busy.

The recipient of the telephone call from the alarm device can then confirm the call, for example by pressing a corresponding button on the telephone. This DTMF tone is then recognized by the multi-frequency detection circuit 38, so that the further telephone numbers are no longer dialed. This confirmation tone can then switch off the alarm device or the siren - of course only if the siren is on. The confirmation tone can also return the alarm device to its original armed state. If no confirmation tone reaches the control unit, the next telephone number is automatically dialed.

The audio message provided by the alarm device may be repeated, followed or interrupted by signals, such as siren signals, indicating that the message is coming from an alarm device. The signals can be selected by users on the keypad by entering the code and pressing the appropriate keys for the signal. This option is particularly useful when the person being called, e.g. a guard and shooting company, is being called by several different alarm devices. Other options can be selected on the keypad, e.g. by pressing the code followed by the appropriate function keys.

As described, the operator can easily select different functions and the integrated alarm device

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He does not need any additional equipment or special expert knowledge for this.

The invention provides a compact integrated alarm system which offers the following functions and advantages: (a) that the alarm system can be switched on and off using a remote control, (b) that the alarm system can also be switched on and off using the keypad 1 of the control unit, for example if the remote control has been lost or misplaced; (c) that there is a built-in siren which responds to a signal from the passive infrared motion detector or one of the other sensors, unless a silent alarm has been programmed; (d) that a predetermined telephone number is automatically dialled as soon as the passive infrared motion detector detects movement (or one of the other sensors gives a signal); (e) that a recorded message is sent to the recipient of the telephone call; (f) that a signal is also sent which allows the alarm device to be identified, i.e. by the recipient of the telephone call. The alarm device according to the invention thus meets all requirements for simplicity, easy installation and versatile use. The disadvantages of the state of the art are thus overcome.

Figure 7 shows an alarm and monitoring unit disguised as a radio alarm clock or alarm clock and Figure 8 shows the associated circuit diagram. The unit comprises a passive infrared motion detector (PIR), a siren 3, a telephone dialer 36, an analogue interface 33a, an ISDN interface 33b (Multiple Units Interface), one or more input contacts 43 (NO or NC), an interface 33c for the RF extender, a telephone dial-in system 52 for checking the status of the RF detectors or the transmitter, a 12V mains connection 31 and a radio-controlled clock 54 with LCD display 56. The telephone dialer 36 has an analogue 33A and/or an ISDN connection 33B for four telephone numbers with 20 digits each. Accordingly, the sales unit contains

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an RJll-RJll connection cable and a TAE-N adapter with RJll input for the analogue interface. The central monitoring and telephone unit also contains an internal microphone for recording a telephone message, a 95 decibel siren and an LCD display for the clock or radio, which can also show telephone numbers and status data, in conjunction with a backlit green and red LCD light display. Alternatively, coloured LEDs can also be used. There is also an interface for an RF transmitter with a multi-pin connection for the input signal, the power connection or for setting the status. The key feature of the remote monitoring unit, which is disguised as a clock or radio alarm clock, is that any message can be recorded for each telephone number on the voice unit of the integrated telephone dialler, which is then passed on to the right person in the event of an alarm. In addition, the multi-frequency tone from the called telephone can be used to listen into the room via the microphone integrated in the telephone dialler. Thirdly, it is important that disguising the device as a clock or radio alarm clock offers increased security and protection, but on the other hand the user is dealing with a seemingly familiar device that can also be programmed as an alarm and monitoring unit. Finally, other remote sensors can be connected to the central telephone dialer via a radio interface or cable, for example using the registration procedure described above.

The keys and buttons shown in Fig. 7 are A for arming or disarming the alarm and a number pad with star and hash keys for entering programs and other functions and settings, telephone numbers and the PIN.

It goes without saying that other tasks and functions can be freely assigned to the above-mentioned keys, or additional keys and buttons can be provided. The device according to the invention can be easily installed and programmed as follows.

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SETTING UP PHONE NUMBERS.

See Figure 7. To do this, press one of the number keys, e.g. key 1, 2 or 3, on the housing for about two seconds until you hear an acknowledgement tone. The red display 12a for programming mode starts to flash. The telephone number is then entered by pressing the number keys. Finally, the input is terminated by pressing the hash key. A double acknowledgement tone is heard and the red display for the active programming mode goes out. Additional telephone numbers can be entered in the same way. As a rule, memory locations are provided for telephone numbers with up to 20 digits. In a preferred embodiment, the telephone number entered is shown simultaneously on the LCD display 60.

RECORDING THE MESSAGE

The telephone message is recorded in a similar way. First, a number key, e.g. the 5 key, is pressed until a signal tone sounds. The red display 12a for the programming mode begins to flash. After pressing the hash key, a message can then be recorded via the microphone 64 and saved. The active recording state is also indicated by a continuous red light 12a. A word message can then be recorded in a predefined time, e.g. 21 seconds. The recording is ended by pressing the hash key again. The red display goes out.

The message can be checked by playing it over the external loudspeaker 64. To do this, press the button 5 for two seconds until a signal tone sounds and the red display starts flashing. Pressing the star button then plays the message and makes it audible over an external loudspeaker. The message can also be heard using an earphone 5.

SETTING UP THE SIREN

To do this, press a number key, e.g. key 6, for about two seconds until you hear an acknowledgment tone and the red display starts flashing. Pressing the hash key will then silence the alarm. This will be confirmed by a double acknowledgment tone and the red light going out. The sirens can be re-armed by pressing the star key instead of the hash key.

ARMING OR DEACTIVATING THE PIR DETECTOR

To do this, press a number key, e.g. the 7 key, until you hear a beep and the red light starts flashing. The passive infrared motion detector can then be switched on and off by pressing the hash or star key.

The programming is confirmed by a double acknowledgement tone and the red light going out. Delay times for the alarm can also be set in this way. Delay times of 90 or 30 seconds have proven to be effective. The delay times can also be pre-programmed. It is also advantageous to adjust the viewing angle of the passive infrared motion detector (PIR).

ARMING AND DISARMING THE ALARM

To do this, press the A button on the device, as you would with a normal alarm clock. An acknowledgment tone sounds and a green light on the back of the device flashes for a few seconds according to the alarm delay, e.g. 90 seconds. A steady green light then indicates an armed alarm. The alarm can be disarmed again by pressing the A button, confirmed by a double acknowledgment tone and the green light going out. The pin of the multiple pin connection of the RF remote control must also be armed or disarmed.

ALARM TRIGGERING/ALARM CLEARING

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The alarm is triggered either by the passive infrared motion detector or by a remote external contact or sensor. To cancel the alarm, press button A or give a corresponding command via the remote control.

An advantageous feature of this second embodiment is that it is possible to listen in during the telephone call, so that the person being called can hear into the room where the system is located via the telephone or microphone. The device is set up so that each time the device is opened it triggers a normal alarm. The LCD display can otherwise be used to show the time, telephone numbers or other important information. The telephone dialler is preferably switched as follows: First the programmed telephone number is dialled and the recorded message is played and repeated. Then the second telephone number is dialled and the recorded message is played again. Finally the third telephone number is dialled, and so on. After each playback the DTMF tone or alarm is switched off or dialling is stopped and the listening microphone is activated for one minute so that the person being called can hear into the room where the alarm system is located.

The claimed scope of protection arises from the claims, whereby the description and the drawings serve to explain the terms and the principle of the invention.

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List of reference symbols Keypad 1 passive infrared motion detector (PIR) 2 siren 3 Battery compartment 4 Telephone connection 5 Power connection 6 Housing 7 Power supply (12V plug-in power supply) 8th lockable flap 9 Alarm device 10 Wall mounting recess 11 LED 12a,b antenna 13 Plug-in power supply 31 Circuit with piezoelectric sound generator 32 Interfaces 33 Telephone dialing 34 Circuit/memory for word messages 35 Telephone dialer 36 Keypad circuit 37 Control circuit (multi-frequency detection circuit) 38 RF circuit 39 internal plug connections e.g. for passive infrared 40.42 motion detector Multi-frequency tone dialing generator 50 LCD display for clock or radio 60 Alarm arming button A 62 Outdoor speaker with microphone 64

14 List of reference symbols

1 Keypad 2 passive infrared motion detector (PIR) 3 siren 4 Battery compartment 5 Telephone connection 6 Power connection 7 Housing 8th Power supply (12V plug-in power supply) 9 lockable flap 10 Alarm device 11 Wall mounting recess 12a,b LED 13 antenna 31 Plug-in power supply 32 Circuit with piezoelectric sound generator 33 Interfaces 34 Telephone dialing 35 Circuit/memory for word messages 36 Telephone dialer 37 Keypad circuit 38 Control circuit (multi-frequency detection circuit) 39 RF circuit 40.42 internal plug connections e.g. for passive infrared motion detector 50 Multi-frequency tone dialing generator 60 LCD display for clock or radio 62 Alarm arming button A 64 Outdoor speaker with microphone

Claims (7)

1. Alarm and monitoring device, characterized by a housing ( 8 ) containing
a control circuit ( 38 ) for the operating functions of the alarm device ( 19 ),
a keypad circuit ( 37 ) for entering commands, messages and the authorization code,
an RF circuit ( 39 ) for receiving radio signals from a remote control by which the alarm and monitoring device ( 10 ) can be switched on and off, the remote control being registered with the alarm device ( 10 ) by the user entering the access code on the keypad ( 1 ) and sending a signal from the remote control to the circuit,
an infrared motion detector ( 2 ) which can trigger an alarm when a detection signal from the control circuit ( 38 ) is received,
Telephone dialling devices ( 34 , 35 , 36 ) which, in response to an alarm signal from the control circuit ( 38 ), dial one or more telephone numbers which the operator has previously entered on the keypad after entering the password, and a
Voice storage unit with microphone for recording one or more messages to be sent to the dialled telephone number in the event of an alarm, optionally together with a signal identifying the alarm device ( 10 ). 2. Alarm and monitoring device according to claim 1, characterized in that alarm, monitoring and telephone dialing functions are integrated or hidden in a radio or clock unit. 3. Alarm and monitoring device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that a multi-frequency tone can be used to listen in on the room where the device is located from the called telephone of the telephone dialing unit via the microphone. 4. Alarm and monitoring device according to one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a siren which responds to an alarm signal from the control circuit ( 38 ). 5. Alarm and monitoring device according to one of claims 1 to 4, comprising a cable connection and/or a radio interface for remote, wired or radio sensors for smoke, water, broken glass, movements, etc. 6. Alarm and monitoring device according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the infrared motion detector ( 2 ) can be optionally deactivated by entering a password on the keypad and the key selection for a deactivated infrared motion detector. 7. An alarm and monitoring device according to any preceding claim, wherein the control circuit ( 38 ) is operatively arranged to deactivate the alarm device ( 10 ) upon receipt of a predetermined signal from the called telephone number.