Access Control Unit Signaling for Faster Commissioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

The commissioning of access devices and control devices in buildings is complex, time-consuming, and costly due to the lack of clear identification of connected devices, leading to potential technical malfunctions and misconfigurations.

Innovation Solution

A method where a control device with a signal output device detects an installer's action on an access device, sends a trigger signal, and outputs a perceptible signal, allowing for identification of connected devices through a mobile terminal using IT communication signals, enabling efficient configuration and reducing errors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If traditional commissioning methods are used without automated identification, then device configuration can be completed, but the process becomes time-consuming and costly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommissioning speedVSAvoidcommissioning time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The control unit is pre-configured with identification data (such as LED patterns or acoustic signals) before installation. During commissioning, the installer simply needs to trigger identification through the access device, and the pre-prepared signals are automatically emitted to identify the control unit. This preliminary preparation eliminates time-consuming manual identification processes during the actual commissioning phase.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical identification methods (physically tracing connections, checking wiring) with automated signal-based identification. The control unit emits perceptible signals (visual LED patterns, acoustic beeps, or digital communication signals) that can be automatically detected and recorded by the commissioning device, substituting manual inspection with automated electronic identification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Measurement precision

If manual identification methods are used to determine control unit connections, then device mapping can be established, but the process becomes complex and error-prone

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice identification accuracyVSAvoidcommissioning process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control unit automatically performs identification functions by emitting its own unique signals when triggered. Instead of requiring the installer to manually trace connections or use complex testing equipment, the control unit serves itself by providing identifiable signals that directly reveal its identity and connection status, simplifying the commissioning process while maintaining high accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements a feedback mechanism where the control unit responds to trigger signals from the access device by emitting identification signals. The commissioning device detects these signals and uses them to automatically map the control unit to the correct access device and location. This closed-loop feedback process ensures accurate identification while eliminating complex manual procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Reliability

If control units are installed without immediate identification, then installation can proceed, but misconfigurations and faulty placements cannot be detected early

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration accuracyVSAvoidinstallation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The identification capability is built into the control unit during manufacturing, with pre-configured identification signals (LED patterns, acoustic responses, or communication protocols). This preliminary preparation allows the control unit to immediately provide identification functionality upon installation, enabling early detection of misconfigurations without adding complexity to the installation process itself.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the identification function with the control unit itself, so that the same device that performs control functions also provides identification signals. This integration eliminates the need for separate identification tools or procedures, maintaining installation simplicity while ensuring reliable configuration accuracy through built-in self-identification capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP4138052B1Method for preparing a control device for access devices for commissioning, access system and computer program product
Publication Date: 2023.10.11 DORMAKABA SCHWEIZ AG
  • EP4138052B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4138052B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4138052B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a method for preparing a control unit for access control devices for commissioning, wherein at least one access control device is communicatively connected to the control unit, wherein the control unit has a communication interface for information technology communication with a mobile terminal and/or a signal output device for outputting a perceptible signal, wherein the method comprises the following steps: a) detecting an action by an installer on an access control device, b) sending a trigger signal based on the installer's action from the access control device to the control unit connected to the access control device, c) receiving the trigger signal by the control unit, d) transmission by the control unit of an information technology signal or modification of an existing continuous information technology signal of the control unit via the communication interface, and/or output.through the control unit, a perceptible signal by means of the signal output device.