DE102009057256A1 - Sensor unit and building monitoring system with such sensor units - Google Patents

Abstract

A sensor unit (1) with a contactless identity or position detection provided, in an electrically controllable sensor circuit (3) connected and in a sensor module (2) arranged sensor (16) should allow particularly resource-friendly way integration into a variety of different overall systems , For this purpose, the sensor (16) according to the invention for adapting its system parameters to the specifications of a central evaluation unit with a configuration module (12).

Description

The invention relates to a sensor unit with a non-contact identity or position detection provided, connected in an electrically controllable sensor circuit sensor. It further relates to a monitoring system for buildings, in particular for a building automation and / or control with such sensor units and the use of such a sensor unit.

In a sensor unit of the type mentioned for non-contact identity or position detection, the sensor arranged in the sensor module usually interacts contactlessly with an assigned control element which, depending on its respective position, relates to the actual sensor and / or depending on the type of identity code Signals specifically associated, electrically detectable reactions of the sensor causes. In particular, such a sensor unit may be provided, for example, for monitoring the closed position of a window or a door in the associated window / door frame, with a magnet usually being arranged as the control element on the movable window sash. The sensor, which can be designed, for example, as a reed contact, as a Hall sensor or as an AMR / GMR sensor, responds directly to the magnetic field (s) at its installation location, so that a direct distinction can be made as to whether the controlling magnetic element is direct located near the sensor or not.

If in such systems only to determine whether the window or the door is open or closed, the sensor module is usually mounted directly on or in the window frame, wherein the magnetic element provided as a control element is arranged on the movable window sash. If, on the other hand, monitoring of the locking state of the window fitting is to take place at the same time, then the sensor unit is arranged on the locking fitting, while, for example, a drive rod carries a control magnet. Such a system is for example from the DE 199 14 568 C2 known.

In the event that the sensor is designed as a magnetically controllable sensor, a reed contact or a Hall sensor is usually provided as a magnetic sensor in such a sensor unit, wherein the magnetic sensor with a connection cable firmly connected and the cable connection point is usually potted. The magnetic sensor is usually connected via the corresponding connection cable with an evaluation unit, in which the detection of the sensor signals is made. In one embodiment of the magnetic sensor as reed contact while an associated switch is closed depending on whether the associated control magnet is in spatial proximity of the sensor or not. Consequently, as a result of a parallel connection of this switch to a test resistor, depending on whether the associated control magnet is in the immediate vicinity of the sensor or not, the detectable total resistance in the associated electrically controllable sensor circuit changes. By means of a suitable measurement and evaluation of the resistance of the sensor circuit, it is thus possible to detect and distinguish between two states in the evaluation unit, namely either "reed switch closed" (corresponds to control magnet in the vicinity, ie window or door closed) or "reed switch opened "(corresponds to control magnet not nearby, so for example window or door open).

By a suitable interconnection and a comparison with stored in the central evaluation thresholds for the electrical parameters in the sensor circuit so that the targeted and centralized monitoring of the window and / or door elements or the like in a building monitoring system is possible. For a reliable interaction between the central evaluation unit on the one hand and the connected sensor units on the other hand, it is necessary that the sensor circuit of the respective sensor unit is adapted with regard to its configuration to the corresponding basic design of the evaluation unit, in particular its stored threshold values for state differentiation. This is usually accounted for by the fact that the potentially large number of sensor units is designed to be uniform and adapted to the evaluation unit in terms of their configuration of the electrical properties, the corresponding sensor units being suitably produced already during manufacture with regard to the predetermined criteria and threshold values. However, this presupposes that specifically adapted sensor units are produced for each predetermined evaluation unit, wherein a free interchangeability between sensor units and a subsequent conversion to other sensor units while maintaining the central evaluation unit is not necessarily possible. The flexibility in the selection and use of the sensor units in combination with the respective evaluation is thus limited.

The invention is therefore based on the object to provide a sensor unit of the type mentioned above, for the particularly flexible and thus resource-saving way integration into a variety of diverse overall systems is possible.

This object is achieved according to the invention in that the sensor for adapting the system parameters of the sensor unit to the specifications of a central evaluation unit is connected to a configuration module.

The sensor may be magnetic field controlled, so for example as a reed contact, Hall sensor, AMR / GMR sensor or the like, or be carried out on RFID basis.

The invention is based on the consideration that for a particularly resource-saving provision of the sensor units even under variable operating conditions, ie in particular for use in combination with different evaluation units, although the basic design of the sensor unit should be made for particularly large quantities. However, in order to allow individual adaptation to the requirements of the respective evaluation unit and thus a particularly high degree of flexibility with regard to possible combinations of sensor unit on the one hand and evaluation unit on the other hand, especially with possibly varying requirements with regard to the planned connection to the evaluation units, the sensor unit, starting from a largely independent body, in a particularly simple manner in terms of their essential for connection to the central evaluation unit properties, ie in particular their electrical parameters and / or their communication-side connection, be configurable. This is achieved by providing a configuration module for variably setting the system parameters of the sensor unit.

The configuration module can be arranged in the manner of an integrated embodiment in the actual sensor housing, wherein the configuration of the system parameters can be done for example via the external setting of switching or magnetic elements or other control devices on or in the configuration module. The configuration or system adaptation is done in this case subsequently by the appropriate settings and manipulation of the configuration module. In order to enable in a particularly simple manner the production of uniform components in large numbers-which saves resources-the sensor is advantageously arranged in a sensor module, the configuration module being configured as a separate module connectable to the sensor module. In this advantageous development, the consistent division of the sensor unit into several subunits or modules is thus provided on the production side, which can be produced independently of each other and in the manner of self-contained elements. The division is provided in such a way that the essential basic elements of the sensor module in the manner of a large-scale production type are provided independently and in large quantities unchanged in the manner of a separate sensor module, said for final adjustment of the electrical and / or communication-side properties of the sensor circuit this uniform sensor module suitable to be connected to the configuration module. It is also conceivable a solution with a body, which is also provided with the cable outlet. At this base body, which is provided as a receptacle for the sensor element, a setting possibility for configuration purposes for the resistors is provided as well as the possibility for the exchange of components.

The configuration module is designed in a further advantageous embodiment such that by suitable components contained therein, the electrical properties of the sensor circuit, in particular resistors and the like, are set via the configuration module. The actual sensor unit, that is to say the combination of sensor module and configuration module, thereby arises through the joining of these two modules, whereby this can be done, for example, directly at the place of use and thus particularly in line with requirements. Later conversions of the sensor units, for example in the form of adaptation to an evaluation unit to be newly installed, can be carried out via a reconfiguration by replacing the configuration module.

A particularly simple design and also a subsequent reliable evaluation of the sensor unit can be achieved by the desired state discrimination is carried out by reading resistance values in the sensor circuit. In order to take this into account, the configuration module in an advantageous embodiment of the invention has a number of resistance elements for establishing electrical resistance values in the sensor circuit.

In an additional or alternative advantageous embodiment, provision may be made for a targeted and individualized connection and adaptation of the sensor unit to the central evaluation unit via the communication-side coupling. In this case, the configuration module in the manner of a communication interface is advantageously designed as a communication module for connecting the sensor unit to the communication system or network of the central evaluation unit. In the case of a wired communication network, the configuration module can be designed, for example, as a parameterizable interface for setting the respective bus protocol, the system logic of the evaluation unit or the like. Alternatively or additionally, in the case of a wireless coupling of the sensor unit the central evaluation unit is the configuration module designed as an RF or radio module or the like. The proposed system adaptation using the configuration module is carried out in particular by the appropriate selection of the respective radio and transmission parameters for the configuration module.

Advantageously, the sensor unit for targeted and adapted introduction and integration of window or door elements, in particular in the frame or Rahmenfalze, provided in corresponding receiving chambers. In order to allow a particularly simple and positionally accurate mounting of the sensor units in the intended holding chamber, the sensor module advantageously has, together with the configuration module connected to it, a function housing adapted in its external dimensions to a predetermined contour of the associated receiving chamber. In order for the outer shape of the resulting outer housing of the sensor unit is matched with assembled sensor and configuration module to the contour and design of the respective receiving chamber. In order to allow a particularly high operational safety of the sensor unit and also a particularly long life of the components used, in a further advantageous embodiment, the functional housing is designed in the manner of an encapsulated design, so that the components arranged therein of the sensor module and the configuration module suitable and sealing are enclosed. For this purpose, advantageously, the abutting edge, which results from the assembly of the sensor module and the configuration module, is provided with an associated seal, preferably against the entry of moisture.

In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the sensor unit of the type mentioned in a monitoring system for buildings, for example, to monitor the closed state of windows and / or doors used. In addition to the actual monitoring functions, the monitoring system can also have alarm functions or the like and, for example, be part of an air conditioning system, a system for access control for the respective building and / or an alarm system. Advantageously, the monitoring system comprises a central evaluation unit, to which a plurality of sensor units of the type mentioned is connected.

The advantages achieved by the invention are, in particular, that by using the configuration module, an adaptation of the system parameters to the specifications of the central evaluation unit particularly flexible and in particular also subsequently, for example, in a system change or in the manner of retrofitting, can be made. As a result, the actual sensor with the components therein can be manufactured in a uniform manner, regardless of type of construction and usage, whereby individualization and adaptation to specific requirements of the evaluation unit can be carried out via the configuration module on the other hand. Thus, the provision of suitable sensor units is made possible by simple means even with varying requirements by the appropriate evaluation.

An embodiment of the invention will be explained in more detail with reference to a drawing. Show:

1 a sensor unit as part of a monitoring system for a building, and

2 to 6 in each case a circuit diagram for a sensor module of the sensor unit according to 1 ,

Identical parts are provided with the same reference numerals in all figures.

The sensor unit 1 according to 1 is provided within a building monitoring system for non-contact identity or position detection, and in particular for determining the closure state of a door or window. This includes the sensor unit 1 a sensor module 2 that interacts with an external control, not shown. Depending on whether the control is in close proximity to the sensor module 2 or not, this changes its measurable electrical characteristics, so that via a suitable remote readout it can be determined if the control is close to the sensor module 2 or not. The sensor module 2 can be configured based on RFID, wherein the control emits corresponding signals in the manner of a signature, the position detection is possible due to the relatively low transmission range of such systems. In the embodiment, however, is in the sensor module 2 arranged as the actual sensor, a magnet-controlled switch, in particular a so-called reed contact, which is switched by an external magnet as a control. The reed contact closes in consequence of the magnetic field acting on the magnet, so that it can be concluded on the basis of the circuit state of the reed contact, whether the control magnet is in its environment or not.

For remote selection is the Reedkonakt of the sensor module 2 in an electrically controllable sensor circuit 3 connected. For the intended use in the embodiment for detecting the closing state of a door or a window, the sensor module 2 , whose sensor circuit 3 over one inaccessible spilled connection 4 to a multi-wire connection cable 6 connected and connected via this with the central evaluation unit of the building monitoring system, in a frame profile 8th integrated of the respective window or door. The frame profile 8th points to the recording and positioning of the sensor module 2 a suitable receiving opening 10 on, in which the sensor module 2 can be introduced. Corresponding to this is the frame profile 8th associated window or door at one of the receiving opening 10 appropriate appropriate location of the control magnet for the reed contact mounted so that when the window is closed or closed door of the control magnet in the immediate vicinity of the sensor module 2 located. When the door or window is open, this is not the case, so that about the electrical properties of the sensor module 2 suitable to the opening state of the window or the door can be closed. Analog can be the combination of sensor module 2 and control magnet also be arranged such that the locking state of the window or the door, for example via the corresponding locking pin, can be monitored.

In the embodiment of the sensor unit 1 is specifically taken into account the fact that especially in comparatively complex monitoring systems for buildings as a central evaluation unit different types or types can be used, with respect to the with the sensor units 1 be replaced signals different requirements such as the individual signal values, voltage or resistance levels / communication or bus protocols or the like. This actually requires that the sensor unit 1 already adapted to the specific specifications of the respective evaluation unit during its production. Nevertheless, a comparatively high flexibility of the sensor unit 1 to be able to ensure the adaptation to the respective evaluation unit with simultaneously kept particularly low production costs, is the sensor unit 1 as subsequently, so after the actual production, configured configurable unit. This is achieved by the sensor module 2 a configuration module provided for adapting the system parameters to the central evaluation unit 12 assigned.

The configuration module 12 can in turn as a subsequently adjustable element, for example via control switches or the like, designed and fixed to the sensor module 2 be connected. In the exemplary embodiment, the sensor unit comprises 1 but in addition to the sensor module 2 , that in the electrically controllable sensor circuit 3 switched actual sensor contains, a separate, with the sensor module 2 connectable configuration module 12 , in which a number of for adjusting the electrical parameters of the sensor circuit 3 provided components is arranged. In particular, the configuration module comprises 12 while a number of resistive elements, over which the electrical resistors a number of sub-branches of the sensor circuit 3 can be determined.

The configuration module 12 can do this in different ways with the sensor module 2 be connectable. For example, as in 1 indicated, be provided a plug connection; but there are also other possible connections. The connector is preferably designed with regard to common protection regulations suitable, especially as protected against environmental influences compound.

In the exemplary embodiment, the sensor module 2 and the configuration module 12 also dimensioned and configured in their outer dimensions such that, after joining these modules, a functional housing adapted in its outer dimensions to a predetermined contour 14 results. In particular, this functional housing 14 preferably configured such that it to a corresponding inner contour of the frame profile 8th is adjusted so that about the insertion of the sensor unit 1 in the respective inner contour an automatic correct positioning and centering of the sensor unit 1 he follows.

In the embodiment according to 1 is essentially a cylindrical functional housing 14 shown in which the configuration module 12 is connected in the manner of an attached cap flush with the lateral surface of the underlying cylinder. Of course, however, other suitable configurations and dimensions of sensor module 2 on the one hand and configuration module 12 on the other hand, to form a functional housing 14 be provided in each case predetermined type. The functional housing 14 is also designed in such a way that in the sensor module 2 and in the configuration module 12 contained components are encapsulated and thus arranged operationally protected. In particular, this may be the case when assembling the sensor module 2 on the one hand and configuration module 12 on the other hand formed edge 15 the housing parts sealed / sealed executed.

In addition, a subsequent manipulation of the sensor unit 1 by unauthorized replacement of the configuration module 12 can rule out the mechanical connection of sensor module 2 and configuration module 12 self-locking, for example, snapping or latching, be designed so that a nondestructive opening after the Joining is no longer possible or only possible with the help of a special tool.

In the 2 to 6 are some examples of possible electrical interconnections in the sensor module 2 and in the configuration module 12 shown. In this case, a basic structure of the sensor unit 1 be provided, as he also in the view in 1 is shown, and wherein the sensor module 2 each directly to the connection cable 6 is connected and the configuration module 12 in turn with the sensor module 2 is associated. Alternatively, however, it may also be provided in a variant that the sensor module 2 under electrical interposition of the configuration module 12 with the connection cable 6 to connect. In all illustrated embodiments is as a sensor 16 a magnetically controllable reed contact is provided, which reacts in the manner of a switch to a control magnet in its environment. For external field monitoring is in the embodiment, in addition another magnetically controllable reed contact 17 intended; other configurations are conceivable.

In the embodiment according to 2 is in the sensor module 2 the sensor 16 arranged, and in the configuration module 12 There are suitable bridging loops 18 . 20 , with which the line connections of the sensor 16 to form the electrically controllable sensor circuit 3 with the corresponding cable connections of the connection cable 6 can be connected. In addition, a so-called sabotage circle is also in the nature of a security circle 22 provided by the configuration module 12 a closed conductor loop between other wires of the connection cable 6 will be produced. About the sabotage circle 22 can thus be easily checked, whether in the manner of unauthorized manipulation of the sensor unit 1 as a whole or the configuration module 12 was disconnected from its terminals.

In the configuration module 12 There are still a number of electrical resistances 24 , with the configuration module installed 12 the electrical properties of the sensor circuit 3 determine. For distinguishing the switching states "closed" and "open" of the sensor 16 Accordingly, different resistance values in the sensor circuit can be read out. By replacing the configuration module 12 with otherwise constant sensor module 2 thus can the electrical properties of the sensor circuit 3 changed and adapted to different specifications of the evaluation. Of course, by suitable specification or modification of the individual resistors 24 in the configuration module 12 to 2 also an individual adaptation of the actual electrical parameters of the sensor circuit 3 to possible specifications possible.

In the embodiment according to 3 is essentially a similar electrical interconnection of the sensor circuit 3 in comparison to the embodiment according to 2 provided, but here is the configuration module 12 in the manner of an intermediate piece between the sensor module 2 and the connection cable 6 is switched.

In the embodiment according to 4 . 5 is the adaptation of the system parameters of the sensor 16 provided to the specifications of the central evaluation unit by means of a configurable communication-side coupling. In this case, in these embodiments, the configuration module 12 in the manner of a communication interface as a communication module for connecting the sensor module 2 configured to the communication system or network of the central evaluation unit. In the embodiment according to 4 . 5 This network is designed to be wired, and the configuration module 12 is designed as a bus interface and thus as a parameterizable interface for setting the respective bus protocol. In 4 In this case, that variant is shown in which the sensor module 2 directly connected to the connection cable, whereas in the variant acc. 5 the sensor module 2 under electrical interposition of the configuration module 12 to the connection cable 6 connected.

In this basically analogous construction is gem. 6 the configuration module 12 for the wireless communication-side connection of the sensor module 2 designed for the communication network of the central evaluation unit. In this case, the configuration module is in this embodiment 12 designed as RF or functional module.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

sensor unit

2

sensor module

3

sensor housing

4

connection

6

connection cable

8th

frame profile

10

receiving opening

12

configuration module

14

impact edge

15

function housing

16

sensor

18

bridging loop

20

bridging loop

22

tamper circuit

24

resistors

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• DE 19914568 C2 [0003]

Claims (9)

Sensor unit ( 1 ) provided with a non-contact identity or position detection, in an electrically controllable sensor circuit ( 3 ) switched sensor ( 16 ) to adapt its system parameters to the specifications of a central evaluation unit with a configuration module ( 12 ) connected is. Sensor unit ( 1 ) according to claim 1, whose sensor ( 16 ) in a sensor module ( 2 ), wherein the configuration module ( 12 ) as a separate, with the sensor module ( 2 ) connectable module is configured. Sensor unit ( 1 ) according to claim 1 or 2, in its configuration module ( 12 ) a number of for adjusting the electrical parameters of the sensor circuit ( 3 ) is arranged. Sensor unit ( 1 ) according to claim 3, whose configuration module ( 12 ) a number of resistance elements for determining electrical resistance values in the sensor circuit ( 3 ) having. Sensor unit ( 1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 4, whose configuration module ( 12 ) is designed as a communication module for communication-side connection to the central evaluation unit. Sensor unit ( 1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 5, in which the sensor module ( 2 ) together with the configuration module ( 12 ) a in its outer dimensions adapted to a predetermined contour functional housing ( 14 ) having. Sensor unit ( 1 ) according to claim 6, wherein the functional housing ( 14 ) arranged therein components of the sensor module ( 2 ) and the configuration module ( 12 Encapsulating encapsulates. Monitoring system for buildings with a central evaluation unit to which a number of sensor units ( 1 ) is connected according to one of claims 1 to 7. Use of a sensor unit ( 1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 7 in a building monitoring system.

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