Essay: CENTRAL BUILDING FIRE EXIT LOCKING SYSTEM

 
ABSTRACT
The way-finding behaviour and response during a fire emergency in a virtual environment was experimentally investigated. Forty participants, divided into two groups, were required to find the emergency exit as soon as possible in a virtual hotel building because of a fire escape demand under condition 1 (Virtual environment without virtual fire, control group) and condition 2 (Virtual environment with virtual fire, treatment group). Compared to the control group, the treatment group induced significantly higher skin conductivity and heart rate, experienced more stress, took longer time to notice the evacuation signs, had quicker visual search and had a longer escape time to find the exit. These results indicated that the treatment condition induced higher physiological and psychological stress, and had influenced the escape behaviour compared to the control group. In practice, fire evacuation education and fire evacuation system design should consider the response characteristics in a fire emergency.
 
Chapter 1: Introduction
1.1 Introduction
Central Building Fire Exit Locking System, which have been improve from the normal safety fire exit that has just normal safety door system. The improvements that we would do is adding a magnetic lock at the safety door, that connected to a circuit which can make it become a more effective safety system. Furthermore, the circuit is fully controlled by PLC. It will be a control room for monitoring and control the system. This room will be supplied with sound alarm and LED as an indicator to notice the safety officer about the door’s situation either is locked or unlocked.
Furthermore, a fire escape is a special kind of emergency exit, usually mounted to the outside of a building or occasionally inside but separate from the main areas of the building. It provides a method of escape in the event of a fire or other emergency that makes the stairwells inside a building inaccessible. Fire escapes are most often found on multiple-story residential buildings, such as apartment buildings. At one time, they were a very important aspect of fire safety for all new construction in urban areas; more recently, however, they have fallen out of common use. This is due to the improved building codes incorporating fire detectors, technologically advanced fire fighting equipment, which includes better communications and the reach of fire fighting ladder trucks, and more importantly fire sprinklers.
Figure 1.1 Fire Exit Door
By the way, the function of this door is a little different with the old door. We will use some electronic components in the system such as smoke detector and temperature sensor. This system will ensure the safety door is always in locked condition, and it will be unlocked once there are smoke detection or temperature limit is reached. The door normally in locked condition to prevent things that will affect the system and to prevent abuse by the public. In addition, battery installation will be include to ensure the system will operate continuously once the power failure.
Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) was originally named Programmable Controller (PC) but this has caused some confusion when personal computers became more common. Thus to avoid confusion, PLC is widely used compared to PC. The original PLC was just a simple on and off device. Therefore it was very suitable to replace simple relay applications. Since the early days, manufacturers of PLC have added numerous features and enhancements to PLC. Now it has the capability to handle complex tasks such as position control, process control and other difficult applications. The speed of operation and case of programming has also improved drastically. PLC is really an industrial computer as its hardware and software have been specifically adapted to the industrial environment. It is an electronic microprocessor based control system that monitors input signals to detect changes from devices such as limit switches, push buttons and sensors. Based on the status of input signals, PLC will react by producing output signals to drive output devices like motors, relays, alarm and contactors to on or off state. This is done with a control application program stored within the PLC memory. The program will execute according to pre defined sequence of operations.
PLC is widely used in the industrial sector as it has some major advantages. First of all, the wiring of PLC is much less compared to conventional relay control system. Modification can be quite difficult with all these wiring in the conventional control panel. But in PLC, modification of control sequence or application can easily be done by programming through the console of PLC or computer software without the need to change the wiring if no additional input or output devices required. Besides that, the complicated wiring in conventional system may also cause the troubleshooting to be quite troublesome. In comparison, the PLC self diagnostic functions enable easy and fast troubleshooting of the system.
1.2 Project Background
Fire exit door is widely used in the public building and industries. This project is to find ways of improving the effectiveness of fire exit locking system mainly in residential and central building areas. The main goal is to find out how to reduce the number of victims stucked in case of fire in buildings effectively.
1.3 Problem Statement
I. Research have found there are some difficulties have occurred while doing search and rescue (SAR) process.
II. The fireman will take time to use normal safety door, which operate manually.
III. Have to break the door first to get in to the interior of the building if the door is locked
1.4 Objectives
I. To implement a temperature sensor and smoke detector to the safety door system.
II. To design a safety locking system for fire hazard.
III. To construct a safety fire exits locking system by using PLC.
1.5 Scope of Project
The scopes of the project is to design an effective central building fire exit locking system. In this project, we are going to use magnetic lock which will be fitted at the safety door. This magnetic lock will allows us to lock and unlock the safety door automatically by a system. The system will be controlled by a circuit that consist of temperature sensor and smoke detector. It will operate according to the received signal from the sensor at the door.
1.6 Output
The output is to target the planned and designed fire exit system to functions as objectives and upgrading the previous fire exit to improve the effectiveness and functionality.
Chapter 2: Literature Review
2.1 Introduction
This chapter discussed the exist model of the fire exit. The information will be used to construct this new fire exit system to ensure it functions as objective needs.
2.2 History of development of fire exit door
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order (RRFSO) 2005, which came into force in October 2006, charges the responsible person in control of non-domestic premises with the safety of everyone, whether employed in or visiting the building. Under Article 14 of the RRFSO, this duty of care includes ensuring that “routes to emergency exits from premises and the exits themselves are kept clear at all times” and that these “emergency routes and exits must lead as directly as possible to a place of safety”. In other words, the entire escape route up to and including the final exit from a building must remain unobstructed at all times, while the distance people have to go to escape (the travel distance) must be as short as possible.
In terms of fire safety, the final exits on an escape route in a public building are known as fire exits. They may or may not be located on the usual route of traffic when the premises are operating under normal circumstances. The final exit doors should open easily, immediately and, wherever practicable, “in the direction of escape”. outwards into a place of safety outside the building. Sliding or revolving doors must not be used for exits specifically intended as fire exits. The emergency routes and fire exits must be well lit and indicated by appropriate signs, for example ‘Fire Exit – Keep Clear’. In locations that require illumination, emergency lighting of adequate intensity must be provided in case the normal lighting fails, and illuminated signs used. The primary purpose of emergency escape lighting is to illuminate escape routes but it also illuminates other safety equipment.
2.3 Classification and itentification of fire exit door
Whereas a fire door is an internal door designed to compartmentalise a section of a building in the event of a fire and/or protect an escape route through it for a minimum length of time, typically 30 minutes (FD30), it is not necessary for a fire exit door at the end of the escape route to be of fire resisting standard or to be kept closed. Its role is to enable the swift and safe egress of people from a building into a place of safety outside rather than to contain the smoke and flames of a conflagration.
This gives rise to another issue, however. Fire exit doors must, by their very nature, be incorporated into the external walls of a building and, although the RRFSO states that they “must not be so locked or fastened that they cannot be easily and immediately opened by any person who may require to use them”, i.e. when exiting a building in a fire situation, they do have to be secured in such a way as to prevent unauthorised entry under normal conditions.
This tension between the two functions of a fire exit door is recognised in the various HM Government guides to fire safety risk assessment in public and commercial premises published by the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG). For example, the guide to “Large Places of Assembly” (May 2006) states that “guidance on fire exits starts from the position that doors on escape routes should not be fitted with any locking devices”, but goes on to note that the security aspect can be addressed by the installation of dedicated hardware that prevents unlimited access but still enables the occupants of a building or area to open the door easily if there is a fire.
CHAPTER 3: METHODOLOGY
3.1 Introduction
This chapter will discuss about the fire exit system that can be integrated with the temperature sensor and smoke detector. It is focused on sensitive of sensor and the function of the system. Autodesk software has been used to create the design. The method of flow diagram of the project is shown in Figure 3.1, Figure 3.2 and Figure 3.3
3.2 Overall project Flow Chart
Figure 3.1 Overall Project Flow Chart
3.2.1 Details Of Overall Project Flow Chart
Figure 3.2 Details Of Overall Project Flow Chart
3.2.2 Flow Chart Operation of The Project
Figure 3.3 Flow Chart Operation Of The Project
3.3 Project Background
In this project, it required to fabricate a model of the fire exit system prototype. The system installation should be fully constructed referring to the drawing to make sure the project achieve its objective. 2 pairs combination of sensor are used in this project as a signal detection. Since this project used 1 source to operate at one time, it will ease the processes of controlling the system. The block diagram for the system is shown in figure 3.5 and ladder diagram is shown in figure 3.6.
3.3.1 Project Design
The design or prototype must be function and same as real design. From this design, the study is installed by the following scope of design. First, wood has been selected for the material body.
Figure 3.4 Completed Design Of The Prototype
3.3.2 Block diagram of the Project
Figure 3.5 shows the block diagram of this project.
Figure 3.5 The Block Diagram Of System
• Constant power source : Main power supply
• Emergency battery circuit : Lead acid battery to the system when main system stop working in fire as a backup power supply
• Control panel : Active and operational systems by PLC
• Input : Temperature sensor and smoke detector which will detect and send signal.
• Output : Led, siren and magnetic lock which function based on input signal.
• Temperature sensor : Device that senses high temperature.
• Smoke detector : Device that senses smoke.
• Led : Lighting indicator.
• Siren : Device that made sound as a warn.
• Magnetic lock : Lock and unlock the exit door by control the current.
3.3.3 Ladder diagram of Project
Figure 3.6 shows the ladder diagram that used in this project. The ladder diagram consists of start button, stop button, temperature sensor, smoke detector, alarm, magnetic lock and led indicator. Both sensor will detect the signal and send it to the PLC. The alarm, magnetic lock and led will function based on signal received at the sensor.
Figure 3.6 Ladder Diagram Of Fire Exit Locking System Using PLC
3.4 Hardware Development and Requirement of the System
The model is designed by using AutoCAD 2013-English. Several studies and changes are made to complete the final design. The study is based on the function, stability and the body design itself. The finalized design was made to suit with the equipment used.
3.5 Hardware Specification
For this prototype of fire exit system, the conceptual design model is simple. The wood as shown in figure 3.7 is used for the body structure. Other items are shown in the Table 1.0 and explained further.
Figure 3.7 Wood For Main Body For The Prototype
3.5.1 Smoke Detector
Figure 3.8 12V DC Smoke Detector
This small gadgets will alert and warn people stay far away from danger field when it detected smoke.While have no smoke, the diode can receive very weak infrared light.When the smoke entering the the chamber, diode can receive more and more light,when the smoke attains the certain density, the detector can give out alarm signal.The detector is suitable for detect the smoke in house, shop, hotel, restaurant,office building, school, bank, library, computer house and storehouse etc.
Technical Specification of Smoke Detector :
1)12V Supply.
2)Sound Level:>=85dB/m
3)Alarm Current: <=20mA
4)Standby Current: 300?A
5)Operating Temperature: -10°C ~ +50°C
6)Operating Humidity: 95%RH
7)Detecting Area:20 square meter
8)Smoke Sensitivity: 2.36%/FT +/-1.251%/FT OBS.
3.5.2 Temperature/Heat Sensor
Figure 3.9 12V DC Temperature/Heat Sensor
A ‘heat detector is a fire alarm device designed to respond when the connected thermal energy of a fire increases the temperature of a heat sensitive element. The thermal mass and conductivity of the element regulate the rate flow of heat into the element. All heat detectors have this thermal lag. Heat detectors have two main classifications of operation, “rate-of-rise” and “fixed temperature.”. This temperature sensor can be manipulate the sensitivity of heat that will be sensed.
3.5.3 Outdoor Siren / Alarm
Figure 3.10 12V DC Siren / Alarm
A siren is a loud noise making device. Civil defense sirens are mounted in fixed locations and used to warn of natural disasters or attacks. Sirens are used on emergency service vehicles such as ambulances, police cars and fire trucks.
There are two general types:
1. Pneumatic
2. Electronic.
Many fire sirens serve double duty as tornado or civil defense sirens, alerting an entire community of impending danger. Most fire sirens are either mounted on the roof of a fire station, or on a pole next to the fire station. Fire sirens can also be mounted on or near government buildings, on tall structures such as water towers, as well as in systems, where several sirens are distributed around a town for better sound coverage.
Most fire sirens are single tone and mechanically driven by electric motors with a rotor attached to the shaft. Some newer sirens are electronically driven by speakers, though these are not as common.
Fire sirens are often called “fire whistles”, “fire alarms”, or “fire horns.” Although there is no standard signaling of fire sirens, some utilize codes to inform firefighters of the location of the fire. Civil defense sirens pulling double duty as a fire siren often can produce an alternating “hi-lo” as the fire signal, or a slow wail as to not confuse the public with the standard civil defense signals of alert and attack. Fire sirens are often blasted once a day at noon and are also called “noon sirens” or “noon whistles”.
3.5.4 LED Light Strobe
Figure 3.11 Led Round Light Strobe
3.5.5 Electromagnetic Lock
Figure 3.12 12V DC Electromagnetic Lock
An electromagnetic lock, magnetic lock, or maglock is a locking device that consists of an electromagnet and an armature plate. There are two main types of electric locking devices. Locking devices can be either “fail safe” or “fail secure”. A fail-secure locking device remains locked when power is lost. Fail-safe locking devices are unlocked when de-energized. Direct pull electromagnetic locks are inherently fail-safe. Typically the electromagnet portion of the lock is attached to the door frame and a mating armature plate is attached to the door. The two components are in contact when the door is closed. When the electromagnet is energized, a current passing through the electromagnet creates a magnetic flux that causes the armature plate to attract to the electromagnet, creating a locking action. Because the mating area of the electromagnet and armature is relatively large, the force created by the magnetic flux is strong enough to keep the door locked even under stress.
Specification :
1)Low maintenance with no moving parts
2)Simple and quick installation of surface mounted magnets suitable for timber or metal doors
3)Single version available with built-in timer (0-90 seconds)
4)Suitable for single or double doors, inward or outward opening
5)High holding force up to 1200 lbs per door leaf(dependant on installation)
6)12V
3.6 Software Used to Design Project
3.6.1 AutoCAD 2013
AutoCAD 2013 has been used for the drawing purpose. The software support 2D and 3D format that compatible with design. This version was chosen because the students are comfort with the style rather than the latest one. Plus, this software is used across a wide range of industries, by architects, project managers, engineers, graphic designers, and other professionals. It is supported by 750 training centers worldwide.
Figure 3.13 AutoCAD 2013
3.6.2 Programmable Logic Controller (PLC)
Figure 3.14 Programmable Logic Controller
A programmable logic controller, PLC, or programmable controller is a digital computer used for automation of typically industrial electromechanical processes, such as control of machinery on factory assembly lines, amusement rides, or light fixtures. PLCs are used in many machines, in many industries. PLCs are designed for multiple arrangements of digital and analog inputs and outputs, extended temperature ranges, immunity to electrical noise, and resistance to vibration and impact. Programs to control machine operation are typically stored in battery-backed-up or non-volatile memory. A PLC is an example of a “hard” real-time system since output results must be produced in response to input conditions within a limited time, otherwise unintended operation will result.
3.6.3 Design Description
This is the finalized design for the study. The structure is shown in the figures below.
Figure 3.15 Front View Of The Fire Exit With The System
Figure 3.16 Top View From Admin Room To The Fire Exit
Chapter 4: Results and Discussion
4.1 Introduction
This chapter contains the analysis data and results for the studies. The results will show the completed operated the project, Central Building Fire Exit Locking System Using PLC. Tested with smoke and high temperature.
4.2 Testing procedure of Central Building Fire Exit Locking System Using PLC.
Figure 4.1 The Complete Operated Central Build Fire Exit Locking System
Figure 4.1 shows the complete operated Fire Exit Locking System. To start the system, the green button or start button need to be push, the system will start running. This system consist 2 sensor, smoke detector and temperature sensor. Each sensor uses different sense, so it will make this system more reliable to be use as safety fire exit. Both sensor are used to sense and send signal to the PLC, and the door will be unlocked, siren and alarm will turned on to let people know that exit door can be use for escape.
4.3 Discussion
There are some problems occurred during completion of the system testing.
First, after installing the electromagnetic lock to the door, the door seemed quite hard to stick and lock the door. The main body of the electromagnetic lock is not really fitted with the steel plate. This made the electromagnetic lock did not stick and unable to lock the door. The solution is to adjust the position of the steel plate to the right position. So the door will able to be locked once the electromagnetic lock stick with the steel plate.
Second, we found that some of Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) is require 24V of voltage for the operation. Since our system only used 12V voltage of equipment, we connect the battery to the PLC as main supply.
Last, for worldwide use, we connect some extra wire for direct source to the battery. So, this system is able to use at the building that did not have any Programmable Logic Controller (PLC).
Chapter 5: Conclusion
5.1 Introduction
This chapter will give an overall conclusion based on the results that had been collected from the project. In addition, several suggestions and recommendations will be given for the future enhancement and advancement.
5.2 Conclusion
With the minimum cost, this project can design and fabricate the functional safety system from fire hazard. This system will ensure the door will always locked, to make sure there are nothing block the exit door. Once the system detect high temperature or smoke, the door will automatically unlocked. So, civilian can use this door as emergency exit smoothly. They no need to break the door since the door automatically controlled by the system with those sensor, temperature sensor and smoke detector.
In this project, we learn and apply the entire subject that we have learn from semester 1 until 5. We build and start the project by doing a lot of researches. This project is a real challenges for us because we are not really know about PLC. And our project need a good knowledge about PLC for finished it.
“Central Building Fire Exit Locking System By Using PLC” project have been successfully realized in week 12 September section. During 14 weeks of final year project, more experiences in technical and others are gained. It is good for the student to learn more about PLC and to design the ladder. This final year project also can be as learning process of technical work such as drawing, drilling, cutting, designing the ladder diagram of the project and handling the machine and tools.
Throughout this Final Year Project activity, valuable knowledge and skill that are relevant to the ship system are gained and applied. Final Year Project also helps to improve the skill and knowledge that are gained during academic session. The project can be considered succeed as it can be completed within period time given by university.
5.3 Future Recommendation
Several weaknesses have been detected during the studies:
i. Build more solid prototype model.
ii. Use adapter for main supply using alternative current (AC).
iii. On off switch with password (admin use).
In the next semester final year project, student should cooperate with lecturer UniKL MIMET to develop or to produce the FYP title. They may produce project that is more unique and will be based on the latest technology by sharing their knowledge and experience in engineering field and their previous education. The student will also be more interested as they get involved in producing the idea of project.
Other than that, UniKL MIMET also should improve several aspects which will be more suitable for next semester student who take this subject. For example:
• UniKL MIMET should give extra time to the student for choosing the Final Year Project title. The application for the title should be done before they start semester 5 which mean at the end of semester 4, the application form must be submitted.
• For a high cost project, the student should have more budgets for their project. As sometime they have to buy material that is high cost.
• UniKL MIMET also should ensure the title that student suggests is suitable with this subject.
5.4 Summary
Based on the study, it can be summarised that the existing fire exit door need to be improved due the case of fire. With the highly growth of building, the development and improvement of fire exit door need to be done to suit with the requirement of the buildings and safety.
Reference
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Vessels and Vehicles – Emergensy Escape & Fire Fighting, (March 3, 2013) Retrieved from http://www.hsa.ie/eng/Topics/Fire/Emergency_Escape_and_Fire_Fighting/
VideoRay Crawler (n.d). In VideoRay Products, Professional ROV, VideoRay 4 ROVs. Retrieved from http://www.videoray.com/homepage/professional-rovs/videoray-pro-4.html
“Hull Crawler Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Underwater Hull Inspection” (n.d) In Hull crawler Datasheet. Retrieved from https://www.qinetiq-na.com/data-sheet_hull-crawler.pdf.
MHC Datasheet (June 2013). In Magnetic Hull Crawler (MHC) Documentation. Retrieved from http://www.cybernetix.fr/en/node/1004
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