GB2640672A

GB2640672A - Sprinkler system monitoring device

Info

Publication number: GB2640672A
Application number: GB2406065.9A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Albert Walker Stephen
Original assignee: Hydrotech Fire & Mech Ltd
Current assignee: Hydrotech Fire & Mech Ltd
Priority date: 2024-04-30
Filing date: 2024-04-30
Publication date: 2025-11-05
Also published as: GB202406065D0

Abstract

The present invention relates to a device for monitoring a sprinkler system and communicating with an alarm system. The sprinkler system comprises a pipe 200 configured to allow a sprinkler fluid to flow therethrough, a valve 220 within the pipe and a valve handle 250 configured to move the valve between an open position and a closed position. The device comprises a flow switch device 260 for detecting the flow of the sprinkler fluid in the pipe, wherein the flow switch device comprises a flow switch connected to a flow switch alarm interface for communicating with the alarm system. The device further comprises a valve switch 242 for detecting whether the valve is in the open or closed position and connected to a valve switch alarm interface for communicating with the alarm system. The flow switch device further comprises the valve switch alarm interface. The valve switch may comprise a reed switch 244 which is controlled by a magnet 246 positioned on the valve handle.

Description

Sprinkler system monitoring device

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to fire sprinkler system monitoring. In particular, the present invention relates to a device for monitoring a sprinkler system and a manifold comprising said device. The present invention further relates to a sprinkler system comprising the manifold of the present invention and a flow switch device for detecting flow of a sprinkler fluid in a pipe.

Background to the Invention

Some fire safety systems include sprinklers. It is important that sprinklers are monitored to ensure they are functioning correctly. Therefore, fire sprinkler systems include sprinkler monitoring systems, such as the system shown in Figure 1. Sprinkler monitoring systems include a flow switch device 160 which can detect the flow of a sprinkler fluid, such as water, through a pipe 100, for example the pipe 100 of a manifold. Some flow switch devices 160 can also detect flow characteristics of the fluid, such as flow rate or pressure.

Some standards for fire sprinkler systems, such as BS 9251:2021, require that all valves which control the flow of water to the sprinkler system should be electrically monitored for the open position. To meet this standard, the valves which can be used to open and close a main passage of the manifold of the sprinkler system are monitored, e.g., valve 120. Such monitored valves 120 include a handle 150 which can be used to move the valve from the open to closed position, and vice versa. The handle 150 facilitates operation of the switch in the valve switch circuit, such that when the valve 120 is in the open position, the handle contacts a switch contact 140, and the valve switch is closed. Thus, the valve switch circuit is closed. On the other hand, when the handle 150 is moved, and thus the valve 120 is even partially closed, the handle 150 does not contact the switch contact 140 and the valve switch is open.

Thus, the valve switch circuit is open, i.e., broken.

Fire safety systems also include fire alarms within an alarm system. Such alarm systems include receivers to receive information from various components in the fire safety system and controllers to control the operation of different parts of the system. For example, alarm systems can receive a signal indicating that one fire alarm is activated and control the other fire alarms such that they are also activated. As another example, alarm systems can receive a signal indicating that sprinkler fluid is flowing through a pipe of a sprinkler, i.e., the sprinkler is activated, and control the fire alarms such that they are also activated.

Sprinkler monitoring systems include a flow switch alarm interface and a valve switch alarm interface 130, both of which allow signals from the sprinkler monitoring system to be sent to the receiver in the alarm system. In current sprinkler monitoring systems, the valve switch alarm interface 130, i.e., the alarm interface to which the valve switch is connected, is often co-located with the valve switch, as shown in Figure 1.

Generally, the valve switch circuit and associated valve switch alarm interface is contained within a housing to protect the circuit and interface. The flow switch alarm interface is a second interface that is associated with and located with the flow switch 160. Similarly, the flow switch and associated flow switch alarm interface are contained within a second housing. Since valve switches often work in conjunction with flow switches, there is communication between the interfaces and the associated wiring 170 is both bulky and unsightly. The valve switch housing and the flow switch housing are usually large in size and can result in the manifold being bulky and taking up a large amount of space, in terms of a volume around the pipe and/or a surface area of the pipe. It is desirable for components which are attached to the pipes of sprinkler systems, for example sprinkler monitoring manifolds, to be small and compact in size, since these components are usually installed in small spaces such as ceiling space or cupboards.

It is an object of the present invention to obviate or mitigate one or more of the abovementioned problems.

Summary of the Invention

The present invention relates to a device for monitoring a sprinkler system and a manifold for a sprinkler system and is based on work performed by the inventors in which they have found that it is possible to provide an improved sprinkler system monitoring device. The present invention further relates to a sprinkler system comprising the manifold and a flow switch device for detecting flow of a sprinkler fluid in a pipe, e.g., a pipe of the manifold.

According to aspects of the invention, there is provided a device for monitoring a sprinkler system, a manifold comprising said device, a sprinkler system containing said manifold, and a flow switch device as set forth in the appended claims. Other features of the invention will be apparent from the dependent claims, and the description which follows.

In a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a device for monitoring a sprinkler system and communicating with an alarm system, the sprinkler system comprising a pipe configured to allow a sprinkler fluid to flow therethrough, a valve within the pipe and a valve handle configured to move the valve between an open position and a closed position, wherein the device comprises: a flow switch device for detecting the flow of the sprinkler fluid in the pipe, wherein the flow switch device comprises a flow switch connected to a flow switch alarm interface for communicating with the alarm system; and a valve switch for detecting whether the valve is in the open or closed position and connected to a valve switch alarm interface for communicating with the alarm system, and wherein the flow switch device further comprises the valve switch alarm interface.

As will be appreciated by the skilled person, a flow switch may comprise a sensor, e.g., a paddle which protrudes into a pipe of a sprinkler system, which can detect the flow of a sprinkler fluid, such as water, through a pipe, for example the pipe of a manifold.

Some flow switches can also detect flow characteristics of the fluid, such as flow rate or pressure. Flow switches and associated devices are extremely beneficial in fire alarm systems, especially when there is no other alarm, for example a heat or smoke alarm, present in a room. In this case, if a sprinkler is activated due to the presence of a fire, the flow switch device detects that the sprinkler is activated and the flow switch alarm interface communicates with the alarm system to notify the system of the activation of the sprinkler, and thus the presence of a fire, which can be used to activate audible fire alarms and warn occupants of the building. Further fire safety information can also be communicated by the flow switch alarm interface to the alarm system, such as the location or identity of the sprinkler, which can be used to determine the location of the fire.

Valve switches allow the general status and availability of the sprinkler system to be monitored. This is useful because if the valve is closed, then no fluid can flow to the sprinkler nozzles, which may render the sprinkler system redundant. Therefore, as mentioned above, some standards for fire sprinkler systems, such as BS 9251:2021, require that all valves which control the flow of water to the sprinkler system should be electrically monitored for the open position.

The present inventors have surprisingly found that by arranging the components of the flow switch device and valve switch in the way described, an overall smaller and more compact monitoring device can be obtained which allows for easier and more convenient installation. Currently in the field of the invention, there has been an aim to make flow switch devices and valve switches smaller separately.

As will be appreciated by the skilled person, a sprinkler system is an active fire suppression system, comprising a sprinkler fluid supply system and associated monitoring systems. Although sprinkler systems were traditionally used only in commercial buildings, there is now a trend for residential buildings to be supplied or retrofitted with sprinkler systems. In the present invention, the sprinkler system may be for a commercial or residential building.

As will be appreciated by the skilled person, an alarm system or fire alarm system is a system configured to detect and alert occupants of a building to the presence of fire, smoke or other fire-related features, e.g., heat. Alarm systems usually comprise an audible alarm and can also comprise a visual alarm and/or other types of alarms.

As used herein, the term "sprinkler fluid" is used to mean a fluid released by sprinklers.

Sprinkler fluids are for supressing a fire and are generally released on detection of fire, or a fire-related feature. A sprinkler fluid, may include, for example, water or other fire retardants.

In the present invention, the flow switch is connected to a flow switch alarm interface and a valve switch is connected to a valve switch alarm interface. In this context, the term "connected to" means that the flow switch is communicatively coupled to the flow switch alarm interface and the valve switch is communicatively coupled to the valve switch alarm interface. Such communicative coupling may involve electrical connections, for example wires, and allows the switches to provide relevant information regarding sprinkler fluid flow or valve status to the respective interface. These interfaces can then communicate with the central alarm system to provide information regarding the fluid flow and/or valve status to the central alarm system, i.e., to the receiver of the alarm system. This communication can be carried out using a communicator for wireless or wired communication.

The present invention provides a device for monitoring a sprinkler system. The sprinkler system comprises a pipe configured to allow a sprinkler fluid to flow therethrough, a valve within the pipe and a valve handle configured to move the valve between an open position and a closed position.

The valve can move between an open position, in which sprinkler fluid can flow through the pipe, and a closed position, in which sprinkler fluid cannot flow through the pipe. In general, the valve is maintained in the open position, unless maintenance of the sprinkler system is taking place, in which case the valve can be closed to shut off sprinkler fluid access to one or more sprinklers of the sprinkler system. The valve handle is configured to move the valve between the open position and the closed position. The device of the invention comprises a valve switch for detecting whether the valve is in the open or closed position.

In the device of the first aspect of the present invention, the flow switch device further comprises the valve switch alarm interface. The present inventors have surprisingly found that by arranging the components of the flow switch device and valve switch such that the valve switch alarm interface is provided with the flow switch device, an overall smaller and more compact monitoring device can be obtained which allows for easier and more convenient installation. The valve switch alarm interface is integrally provided with the flow switch device, which results in a more compact device overall. The valve switch alarm interface and flow switch device may be co-located i.e., located in the same, or a similar, position and/or located together.

In embodiments, the flow switch device may further comprise a housing. By housing the flow switch device, the wires and circuitry present in the flow switch device are protected from damage caused by impacts, sprinkler fluid and the like. The housing may be a solid and/or resilient housing. The housing may be formed from a waterproof or water-resistant material.

The housing may contain the flow switch, the flow switch alarm interface and the valve switch alarm interface. As set out above, the housing prevents damage to the components contained therein. In addition, the inventors have also found that by housing the flow switch, flow switch alarm interface and valve switch alarm interface in a single housing, the device of the present invention is overall smaller in size which allows for more convenient installation and maintenance. The use of a single housing comprising both switch alarm interfaces may also reduce the amount of wiring required outside of the housing and/or remove the need for this exposed wiring.

The flow switch alarm interface and the valve switch alarm interface may be two separate interfaces which are co-located and/or located within a single housing. In embodiments, the flow switch alarm interface and the valve switch alarm interface may comprise a single interface. For example, the flow switch alarm interface and the valve switch alarm interface may be electrically connected to form an alarm interface. Alternatively, or additionally, the flow switch alarm interface and the valve switch alarm interface may be physically connected to form an alarm interface. The use of a single interconnected alarm interface reduces the complexity of the wiring required in the device of the present invention.

In embodiments of the present invention, the valve switch may comprise a non-contact switch. The term "non-contact switch", as used herein, means that the switch does not require physical contact with an object to operate, for example a user's digit, or other activating device, such as a valve handle of a sprinkler system.

Non-contact switches have the advantage of being more reliable than contact switches, such as toggle switches, since there is no physical wearing of connection points.

Furthermore, non-contact switches avoid the need for switch contacts protruding from the device and are generally smaller switch components than, for example, toggle switches, thereby saving space. In addition, by utilising a non-contact switch, the switch itself, which is part of an electrical circuit, can be entirely located within a small switch protector so that it is not exposed. Therefore, the switch can be protected from damage from impacts and fluids, for example water.

In embodiments the non-contact switch is a magnetic switch, i.e., a switch operated by a magnetic field. In preferred embodiments, the non-contact switch is a reed switch.

As will be appreciated by the skilled person, a reed switch is an electromechanical switch activated by a magnetic field. A reed switch usually comprises two flexible metal contacts which are brought together, and thus the switch is closed, in the presence of a magnetic field. The present inventors have found a reed switch particularly beneficial in the device of the present invention as it is a small and reliable switch which allows for significant space saving when the device is installed, compared to the toggle switches currently used in the field of the invention.

The valve handle of the sprinkler system may comprise a magnet connected thereto. The magnet may be configured to operate, i.e., open and close, the reed switch. For example, when the valve handle is in the open position, i.e., when the valve is open, the magnet present on the valve handle is brought into close proximity with the valve switch, i.e., the reed switch. The magnetic field closes the reed switch which communicates with the interface and thus the alarm system to inform the system that the valve is open. On the other hand, when the valve handle is moved into the closed, or a partially closed position, i.e., when the valve is closed, or partially closed, the magnet present on the valve handle moves away from the valve switch, i.e., the reed switch. The reed switch therefore opens, and the alarm system is informed that the valve is closed. In this example, the type of reed switch is a normally open reed switch; however, as will be apparent to the skilled person, a normally closed reed switch may be used instead. As will be apparent to the skilled person, the valve signal communicated to the alarm system and/or the processing and control of the alarm system in relation to the valve signal can be adjusted according to the type of reed switch used. As such, a valve signal that indicates the valve is open may be a continuous signal or an instantaneous alarm signal and/or a valve signal that indicates the valve is closed may be a continuous signal or an instantaneous alarm signal.

By "connected to the valve handle" it is meant that the magnet is attached to the valve handle such that the magnet moves when the valve handle moves. However, the magnet need not be directly attached to the valve handle but may be indirectly attached by way of a projection or extension attached to the handle.

In embodiments of the present invention, when the flow switch device detects the flow of the sprinkler fluid, the flow switch alarm interface sends a flow switch signal to the alarm system. This informs the alarm system that sprinkler fluid is flowing and that a fire may be present. The alarm system may thereby activate other fire alarms in the system such that they are also activated. Such alarms may provide an audible alarm to occupants of the building in which the sprinkler system and alarm system is installed.

As will be apparent to the skilled person, in this example, the flow switch alarm signal indicating that the fluid is flowing is an instantaneous alarm signal; however, the flow switch alarm signal could comprise a continuous signal that is sent to the alarm system to indicate that the fluid is not flowing. In this case, when the alarm system does not receive this signal, it is determined that the fluid is flowing, and the alarm system can be activated. In general, the flow switch signal(s) may be continuous or instantaneous signal(s).

In embodiments of the present invention, when the valve switch detects the open position of the valve, the valve switch alarm interface may send a valve switch signal to the alarm system. This informs the alarm system that the valve is in the open position and that fluid can flow through the pipe of the sprinkler system, if required. The valve switch alarm interface may, alternatively or additionally, send a valve switch signal to the alarm system when the valve switch detects the closed or partially closed position of the valve. As for the flow switch signal(s), the valve switch signal(s) may be continuous or instantaneous signal(s).

In a second aspect of the invention there is provided a device for monitoring a sprinkler system and communicating with an alarm system, the sprinkler system comprising a pipe configured to allow a sprinkler fluid to flow therethrough, a valve within the pipe and a valve handle configured to move the valve between an open position and a closed position, wherein the device comprises: a flow switch device for detecting the flow of the sprinkler fluid in the pipe, wherein the flow switch device comprises a flow switch connected to a flow switch alarm interface for communicating with the alarm system; and a valve switch for detecting whether the valve is in the open or closed position and connected to a valve switch alarm interface for communicating with the alarm system, and wherein the valve switch comprises a non-contact switch.

The valve switch of the second aspect of the invention comprises a non-contact switch. As described above, the term "non-contact switch", as used herein, means that the switch does not require physical contact with an object to operate, for example a user's digit, or other activating device, such as a valve handle of a sprinkler system.

In embodiments the non-contact switch is a magnetic switch, i.e., a switch operated by a magnetic field. In preferred embodiments, the non-contact switch is a reed switch. As will be appreciated by the skilled person, a reed switch is an electromechanical switch activated by a magnetic field. A reed switch usually comprises two flexible metal contacts which are brought together, and thus the switch is closed, in the presence of a magnetic field. The present inventors have found a reed switch particularly beneficial in the device of the present invention as it is a small and reliable switch which allows for significant space saving when the device is installed, compared to the toggle switches currently used in the field of the invention.

The valve handle of the sprinkler system may comprise a magnet connected thereto.

The magnet may be configured to operate, i.e., to open and close, the reed switch. For example, when the valve handle is in the open position, i.e., when the valve is open, the magnet present on the valve handle is brought into close proximity with the valve switch, i.e., the reed switch. The magnetic field closes the reed switch which communicates with the interface and thus the alarm system to inform the system that the valve is open. On the other hand, when the valve handle is moved into the closed, or a partially closed position, i.e., when the valve is closed, or partially closed, the magnet present on the valve handle moves away from the valve switch, i.e., the reed switch. The reed switch therefore opens, and the alarm system is informed that the valve is closed. In this example, the type of reed switch is a normally open reed switch; however, as will be apparent to the skilled person, a normally closed reed switch may be used instead. As will be apparent to the skilled person, the valve signal communicated to the alarm system and/or the processing and control of the alarm system in relation to the valve signal can be adjusted according to the type of reed switch used. As such, a valve signal that indicates the valve is open may be a continuous signal or an instantaneous alarm signal and/or a valve signal that indicates the valve is closed may be a continuous signal or an instantaneous alarm signal.

In embodiments, the flow switch device further comprises the valve switch alarm interface. The present inventors have surprisingly found that by arranging the components of the flow switch device and valve switch such that the valve switch alarm interface is provided with the flow switch device, an overall smaller and more compact monitoring device can be obtained which allows for easier and more convenient installation. The valve switch alarm interface is integrally provided with the flow switch device, which results in a more compact device overall. The valve switch alarm interface and flow switch device may be co-located i.e., located in the same position and/or located together.

In embodiments of the present invention, when the flow switch device detects the flow of the sprinkler fluid, the flow switch alarm interface sends a flow switch signal to the alarm system. This informs the alarm system that sprinkler fluid is flowing and that a fire may be present. The alarm system may thereby activate other fire alarms in the system such that they are also activated. Such alarms may provide an audible alarm to occupants of the building in which the sprinkler system and alarm system is installed. As will be apparent to the skilled person, in this example, the flow switch alarm signal indicating that the fluid is flowing is an instantaneous alarm signal; however, the flow switch alarm signal could comprise a continuous signal that is sent to the alarm system to indicate that the fluid is not flowing. In this case, when the alarm system does not receive this signal, it is determined that the fluid is flowing, and the alarm system can be activated. In general, the flow switch signal(s) may be continuous or instantaneous signal(s).

Features of the device of the second aspect of the invention are described above in relation to the first aspect of the invention.

In a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a manifold for monitoring a sprinkler system and communicating with an alarm system, the manifold comprising: a pipe configured to allow a sprinkler fluid to flow therethrough; a valve within the pipe for opening and closing the pipe to control the flow of the sprinkler fluid therethrough; a valve handle configured to move the valve between an open position and a closed position; a flow switch device for detecting the flow of the sprinkler fluid in the pipe, wherein the flow switch device comprises a flow switch connected to a flow switch alarm interface for communicating with the alarm system; and a valve switch for detecting whether the valve is in the open or closed position and connected to a valve switch alarm interface for communicating with the alarm system, and wherein the flow switch device further comprises the valve switch alarm interface.

The present inventors have found that by arranging the components of the flow switch device and valve switch in the way described, a smaller, more compact manifold can be obtained. This allows for easier and more convenient installation.

As will be appreciated by the skilled person, a manifold is a pipe with several branches and/or openings. As will be appreciated, in the field of the present invention a manifold comprises a pipe or main tube body with an inlet at a first end and an outlet at a second end. The pipe is configured to allow a sprinkler fluid, for example water or other fire retardants, to flow therethrough, thereby supplying sprinkler fluid to sprinkler outlets, or sprinkler nozzles, within a building, for example.

The pipe of the manifold and/or sprinkler system has a valve located within the pipe. The valve is configured to open and close a main passage of the pipe to control the flow of the sprinkler fluid therethrough. If a sprinkler nozzle opens, when a fire is present and the pipe is open, sprinkler fluid flows through the pipe to supply the sprinkler nozzles.

The valve may be any suitable valve which can be moved between and open and closed position. In embodiments, the valve comprises a ball valve.

Similar to the device of the first aspect of the present invention, the flow switch device further comprises the valve switch alarm interface. The present inventors have surprisingly found that by arranging the components of the flow switch device and valve switch such that the valve switch alarm interface is provided with the flow switch device, an overall smaller and more compact monitoring device can be obtained which allows for easier and more convenient installation. The valve switch alarm interface is integrally provided with the flow switch device, which results in a more compact device overall. The valve switch alarm interface and flow switch device may be co-located i.e., located in the same position and/or located together.

The housing may contain the flow switch, the flow switch alarm interface and the valve switch alarm interface. As set out above, the housing prevents damage to the components contained therein. In addition, the inventors have also found that by housing the flow switch, flow switch alarm interface and valve switch alarm interface in a single housing, the manifold of the present invention is overall smaller in size which allows for more convenient installation and maintenance. The use of a single housing comprising both switch alarm interfaces may also reduce the amount of wiring required outside of the housing and/or remove the need for this exposed wiring.

The flow switch alarm interface and the valve switch alarm interface may be two separate interfaces which are co-located and/or located within a single housing. In embodiments, the flow switch alarm interface and the valve switch alarm interface may comprise a single interface. For example, the flow switch alarm interface and the valve switch alarm interface may be electrically connected to form an alarm interface. Alternatively, or additionally, the flow switch alarm interface and the valve switch alarm interface may be physically connected to form an alarm interface. The use of a single interconnected alarm interface reduces the complexity of the wiring required in the manifold of the present invention.

In embodiments, the valve switch of the manifold comprises a non-contact switch. As described above, a non-contact switch means that the switch does not require physical contact with an object to operate, for example a user's digit, or other activating device, such as a valve handle of a sprinkler system.

In embodiments the non-contact switch is a magnetic switch, i.e., a switch operated by a magnetic field. In preferred embodiments, the non-contact switch is a reed switch. As will be appreciated by the skilled person, a reed switch is an electromechanical switch activated by a magnetic field. A reed switch usually comprises two flexible metal contacts which are brought together, and thus the switch is closed, in the presence of a magnetic field. The present inventors have found a reed switch particularly beneficial in the manifold of the present invention as it is a small and reliable switch which allows for significant space saving when the manifold is installed, compared to the toggle switches currently used in the field of the invention.

The valve handle of the manifold may comprise a magnet connected thereto. The magnet may be configured to operate, i.e., open and close, the reed switch. For example, when the valve handle is in the open position, i.e., when the valve is open, the magnet present on the valve handle is brought into close proximity with the valve switch, i.e., the reed switch. The magnetic field closes the reed switch which communicates with the interface and thus the alarm system to inform the system that the valve is open. On the other hand, when the valve handle is moved into the closed, or a partially closed position, i.e., when the valve is closed, or partially closed, the magnet present on the valve handle moves away from the valve switch, i.e., the reed switch. The reed switch therefore opens, and the alarm system is informed that the valve is closed. In this example, the type of reed switch is a normally open reed switch; however, as will be apparent to the skilled person, a normally closed reed switch may be used instead. As will be apparent to the skilled person, the valve signal communicated to the alarm system and/or the processing and control of the alarm system in relation to the valve signal can be adjusted according to the type of reed switch used. As such, a valve signal that indicates the valve is open may be a continuous signal or an instantaneous alarm signal and/or a valve signal that indicates the valve is closed may be a continuous signal or an instantaneous alarm signal.

The manifold of the present invention may further comprise a test port. The test port may comprise a test valve, for example a ball valve. The test port may enable easy and convenient testing, repair and maintenance of the manifold. The manifold of the present invention may yet further comprise a pressure measuring port, for mounting of a pressure sensor and/or gauge. Such a pressure sensor and/or gauge can be used to conveniently test the operation of the manifold.

Features of the manifold of the third aspect of the present invention are described above in relation to the devices of the first and second aspects of the invention.

In a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a manifold for monitoring a sprinkler system and communicating with an alarm system, the manifold comprising: a pipe configured to allow a sprinkler fluid to flow therethrough; a valve within the pipe for opening and closing the pipe to control the flow of the sprinkler fluid therethrough; a valve handle configured to move the valve between an open position and a closed position; a flow switch device for detecting the flow of the sprinkler fluid in the pipe, wherein the flow switch device comprises a flow switch connected to a flow switch alarm interface for communicating with the alarm system; and a valve switch for detecting whether the valve is in the open or closed position and connected to a valve switch alarm interface for communicating with the alarm system, and wherein the valve switch comprises a non-contact switch.

Features of the manifold of the third aspect of the invention apply equally to the manifold of the fourth aspect of the present invention. What is more, features of the manifold of the fourth aspect of the invention are described above in relation to the devices of the first and second aspects of the invention.

In the manifold of the present invention, the valve switch comprises a non-contact switch. As described above, the term "non-contact switch", as used herein, means that the switch does not require physical contact with an object to operate, for example a user's digit, or other activating device, such as a valve handle of a sprinkler system.

Non-contact switches have the advantage of being more reliable than contact switches, such as toggle switches, since there is no physical wearing of connection points. Furthermore, non-contact switches avoid the need for switch contacts protruding from the device and are generally smaller switch components than, for example, toggle switches, thereby saving space. In addition, by utilising a non-contact switch, the switch itself, which is part of an electrical circuit, can be entirely located within a small switch protector so that it is not exposed. Therefore, the switch can be protected from damage from impacts and fluids, for example water.

As will be appreciated by the skilled person, a reed switch is an electromechanical switch activated by a magnetic field. A reed switch usually comprises two flexible metal contacts which are brought together, and thus the switch is closed, in the presence of a magnetic field. The present inventors have found a reed switch particularly beneficial in the manifold of the present invention as it is a small and reliable switch which allows for significant space saving around the manifold, compared to the toggle switches currently used in the field of the invention.

The valve handle of the manifold may comprise a magnet connected thereto. The magnet may be configured to operate, i.e., to open and close, the reed switch. For example, when the valve handle is in the open position, i.e., when the valve is open, the magnet present on the valve handle is brought into close proximity with the valve switch, i.e., the reed switch. The magnetic field closes the reed switch which communicates with the interface and thus the alarm system to inform the system that the valve is open. On the other hand, when the valve handle is moved into the closed, or a partially closed position, i.e., when the valve is closed, or partially closed, the magnet present on the valve handle moves away from the valve switch, i.e., the reed switch. The reed switch therefore opens, and the alarm system is informed that the valve is closed. In this example, the type of reed switch is a normally open reed switch; however, as will be apparent to the skilled person, a normally closed reed switch may be used instead. As will be apparent to the skilled person, the valve signal communicated to the alarm system and/or the processing and control of the alarm system in relation to the valve signal can be adjusted according to the type of reed switch used. As such, a valve signal that indicates the valve is open may be a continuous signal or an instantaneous alarm signal and/or a valve signal that indicates the valve is closed may be a continuous signal or an instantaneous alarm signal.

In embodiments, the flow switch device may further comprise the valve switch alarm interface. The present inventors have surprisingly found that by arranging the components of the flow switch device and valve switch such that the valve switch alarm interface is provided with the flow switch device, an overall smaller and more compact manifold can be obtained which allows for easier and more convenient installation.

The valve switch alarm interface is integrally provided with the flow switch device, which results in a more compact device overall. The valve switch alarm interface and flow switch device may be co-located i.e., located in the same position and/or located together on the manifold.

The present invention also provides a sprinkler system comprising the manifold according to the third and/or fourth aspects of the present invention.

The present invention also provides a sprinkler system comprising the device according to the first and/or second aspects of the present invention.

The present invention also provides a flow switch device for detecting the flow of a sprinkler fluid in a pipe, the flow switch device comprising a flow switch, a flow switch alarm interface, and a valve switch alarm interface, wherein the flow switch is connected to the flow switch alarm interface, the valve switch alarm interface is configured to be connected to a valve switch for detecting whether a valve is in the open or closed position, and the flow switch alarm interface and the valve switch alarm interface are configured to communicate with an alarm system.

Features of the flow switch device are described above in relation to the first, second, third and fourth aspects of the invention.

There is also provided a manifold comprising the flow switch device and a sprinkler system comprising the flow switch device. Features of the manifold and sprinkler system are described above in relation to the first, second, third and fourth aspects of the invention.

Detailed Description of the Invention

The present invention will now be further described with reference to the following figures in which: Figure 1 shows a prior art device, as discussed above; Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a device according to an embodiment of the present invention; and Figure 3 shows a side view of a portion of the device of Figure 2.

The present inventors have undertaken significant experimentation to develop the device of the present invention. Figures 2 and 3 show a manifold for monitoring a sprinkler system and for communicating with an alarm system of a fire safety system. This manifold comprises a pipe 200 that is configured to allow a sprinkler fluid to flow therethrough. When the sprinkler system is activated, i.e., when a fire is detected, the sprinkler fluid can flow from a sprinkler fluid source to the sprinklers via the manifold.

The manifold can regulate the flow of the sprinkler fluid out of the sprinklers by allowing or preventing the flow of the sprinkler fluid within the manifold using a valve 220. The valve 220 is located within the pipe and is connected to a valve handle 250. The valve handle 250 is configured to move the valve 220 between an open position, in which the sprinkler fluid can pass through the valve 220, and a closed position, in which the flow of the sprinkler fluid through the valve 220 is restricted or completely prevented.

The manifold further comprises a valve switch 242 for detecting the position of the valve 220, i.e., for detecting whether the valve 220 is in the open position or the closed position. The valve switch 242 comprises a reed switch 244 which is controlled by a magnet 246. The valve handle 250 is connected to the magnet 246 at one end and comprises a grip portion at the other end. The handle 250, magnet 246, reed switch 244 and valve 220 are arranged such that when the valve 220 is open, the handle 250 is in the open position, and the magnet 246 is close enough to the reed switch 244 to apply a magnetic field to the reed switch 244, thereby closing the reed switch 244, or causing the reed switch 244 to be in a closed position.

The valve switch 242 is part of a valve switch circuit which includes the valve switch 242 and a valve switch alarm interface. The valve switch alarm interface is for communicating with the alarm system by sending a valve switch signal to the alarm system.

The manifold further comprises a flow switch device 260 for detecting the flow of the sprinkler fluid in the pipe 200, i.e., for detecting whether the sprinkler fluid is flowing in the pipe, and optionally for detecting flow characteristics of the sprinkler fluid such as pressure or rate of flow. The flow switch device 260 comprises a flow switch connected to a flow switch alarm interface, for communicating with the alarm system, and the valve switch alarm interface. In this example, the flow switch alarm interface and the valve switch alarm interface are provided by a single alarm interface receiving inputs from both the valve switch and the flow switch. The valve switch alarm interface is electrically connected to the reed switch 244 via one or more wires 270 protected by a sleeve, which extend out of the flow switch device 260. The flow switch device 260 further includes a housing which contains the flow switch, the flow switch alarm interface and the valve switch alarm interface, thus protecting them from damage caused by impacts, sprinkler fluid and the like. By co-locating the flow switch, the flow switch alarm interface and the valve switch alarm interface, less space, e.g., volume or area, is taken up by the device and/or the manifold. In this way, a smaller, compact and more space-efficient device and/or manifold is provided. Furthermore, the device and/or the manifold are more convenient to install due to the reduced number of separate components.

The flow switch alarm interface is configured to send a flow switch signal to the alarm system when the sprinkler fluid flows through the pipe 200. The valve switch alarm interface is configured to send a valve switch signal, e.g., a continuous valve switch signal, to the alarm system when the reed switch 244 is closed. When the reed switch 244 is closed, the valve switch circuit is closed and therefore a current can flow therethrough.

The flow switch alarm interface and the valve switch alarm interface may be provided by one alarm interface, i.e., the flow switch alarm interface and the valve switch alarm interface are physically and/or electronically coupled such that they are the same alarm interface. The alarm interface can communicate information about both the flow switch and the valve switch. The alarm interface includes a communicator that is configured to send a flow switch signal and/or a valve switch signal to the alarm system. This communication is achieved using any suitable communication means, e.g., the signals can be sent via a wireless connection or a wired connection. Advantageously, the device is more convenient to install due to the overall reduced number of components.

The manifold shown in Figures 2 and 3 includes a test port 280 and a pressure sensor/gauge 290 connected to a pressure port for testing the operation of the manifold. These features together and separately enable easy and convenient repair and maintenance of the manifold.

It will be appreciated that numerous modifications to the above-described device may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, the flow switch alarm interface and the valve switch alarm interface can be two separate interfaces provided by the flow switch device. Furthermore, the flow switch device comprising the flow switch, the flow switch alarm interface and the valve switch alarm interface, and optionally the valve switch, may be retrofitted to existing sprinkler systems.

Throughout this specification, the term "comprising" or "comprises" means including the component(s) specified but not to the exclusion of the presence of other components. The term "consisting essentially of or "consists essentially of means including the components specified but excluding other components except for materials present as impurities, unavoidable materials present as a result of processes used to provide the components, and components added for a purpose other than achieving the technical effect of the invention.

The term "consisting of or "consists of means including the components specified but excluding addition of other components.

Whenever appropriate, depending upon the context, the use of the term "comprises" or "comprising" may also be taken to encompass or include the meaning "consists essentially of" or "consisting essentially of', and may also be taken to include the meaning "consists of" or "consisting or.

The optional features set out herein may be used either individually or in combination with each other where appropriate and particularly in the combinations as set out in the accompanying claims. The optional features for each aspect or exemplary embodiment of the invention as set out herein are also to be read as applicable to any other aspect or exemplary embodiments of the invention, where appropriate. In other words, the skilled person reading this specification should consider the optional features for each exemplary embodiment of the invention as interchangeable and combinable between different exemplary embodiments.

All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive.

Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

Claims

Claims 1. A device for monitoring a sprinkler system and communicating with an alarm system, the sprinkler system comprising a pipe configured to allow a sprinkler fluid to flow therethrough, a valve within the pipe and a valve handle configured to move the valve between an open position and a closed position, wherein the device comprises: a flow switch device for detecting the flow of the sprinkler fluid in the pipe, wherein the flow switch device comprises a flow switch connected to a flow switch alarm interface for communicating with the alarm system; and a valve switch for detecting whether the valve is in the open or closed position and connected to a valve switch alarm interface for communicating with the alarm system, and wherein the flow switch device further comprises the valve switch alarm interface.
2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the valve switch comprises a non-contact switch.
3. The device according to claim 2, wherein the non-contact switch comprises a reed switch.
4. The device according to claim 3, further comprising a magnet connected to the valve handle, the magnet being configured to open and close the reed switch.
5. The device according to any preceding claim wherein when the flow switch device detects the flow of the sprinkler fluid, the flow switch alarm interface sends a flow switch signal to the alarm system.
6. The device according to any preceding claim wherein when the valve switch detects the open position of the valve, the valve switch alarm interface sends a valve switch signal to the alarm system.
7. The device according to any preceding claim wherein the flow switch device further comprises a housing.
8. The device according to claim 7, wherein the housing contains the flow switch, the flow switch alarm interface and the valve switch alarm interface.
9. The device according to any preceding claim wherein the flow switch alarm interface and the valve switch alarm interface are electrically connected to form an alarm interface.
10. A device for monitoring a sprinkler system and communicating with an alarm system, the sprinkler system comprising a pipe configured to allow a sprinkler fluid to flow therethrough, a valve within the pipe and a valve handle configured to move the valve between an open position and a closed position, wherein the device comprises: a flow switch device for detecting the flow of the sprinkler fluid in the pipe, wherein the flow switch device comprises a flow switch connected to a flow switch alarm interface for communicating with the alarm system; and a valve switch for detecting whether the valve is in the open or closed position and connected to a valve switch alarm interface for communicating with the alarm system, and wherein the valve switch comprises a non-contact switch.
11. The device according to claim 10, wherein the non-contact switch comprises a reed switch.
12. The device according to claim 11, further comprising a magnet connected to the valve handle, the magnet being configured to open and close the reed switch.
13. The device according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the flow switch device further comprises the valve switch alarm interface.
14. A manifold for monitoring a sprinkler system and communicating with an alarm system, the manifold comprising: a pipe configured to allow a sprinkler fluid to flow therethrough; a valve within the pipe for opening and closing the pipe to control the flow of the sprinkler fluid therethrough; a valve handle configured to move the valve between an open position and a closed position; a flow switch device for detecting the flow of the sprinkler fluid in the pipe, wherein the flow switch device comprises a flow switch connected to a flow switch alarm interface for communicating with the alarm system; and a valve switch for detecting whether the valve is in the open or closed position and connected to a valve switch alarm interface for communicating with the alarm system, and wherein the flow switch device further comprises the valve switch alarm interface.
15. The manifold according to claim 14, wherein the valve switch comprises a non-contact switch.
16. The manifold according to claim 15, wherein the non-contact switch comprises a reed switch.
17. The manifold according to claim 16, further comprising a magnet connected to the valve handle, the magnet being configured to open and close the reed switch.
18. A sprinkler system comprising the manifold of any one of claims 14-17.
19. A flow switch device for detecting the flow of a sprinkler fluid in a pipe, the flow switch device comprising: a flow switch; a flow switch alarm interface; and a valve switch alarm interface, wherein: the flow switch is connected to the flow switch alarm interface; the valve switch alarm interface is configured to be connected to a valve switch for detecting whether a valve is in the open or closed position; and the flow switch alarm interface and the valve switch alarm interface are configured to communicate with an alarm system.