Alarm Controller Single Button Command Assignment Logic
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users often fail to properly respond to alarm activations due to lack of familiarity with alarm system operations, leading to unnecessary disabling of devices, which can be dangerous, especially in non-emergency situations like cooking-related smoke.
Innovation Solution
A controller with a processor that automatically assigns commands to a single user action based on circumstances, such as test, locate, or silence, using a user interface with dedicated indicators and a button, allowing users to manage alarm devices without needing to understand complex operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple buttons are provided for different alarm functions (test, locate, silence), then the system provides comprehensive control capabilities, but the user interface complexity increases and users may press wrong buttons leading to incorrect responses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple function buttons (test, locate, silence) into a single button interface. The processor automatically determines which function to execute based on the current alarm state and timing, eliminating the need for users to select between multiple buttons and reducing interface complexity while maintaining full control capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically interpreting user intent through state-machine logic. The processor monitors alarm conditions, device states, and timing to autonomously determine which command the user intends to execute, removing the burden of manual function selection from the user.
2Measurement precision
If users must read and understand instruction manuals to operate alarm devices correctly, then precise control is achieved, but user convenience deteriorates and incorrect responses occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides feedback through LED indicators that visually display the current alarm state and the function that will be executed on the next button press. This real-time feedback eliminates the need for users to consult manuals, as the system itself communicates its state and expected responses through intuitive visual cues.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses different colored LED indicators to represent different alarm states and functions. Color-coded visual feedback allows users to quickly understand system status and intended actions without reading text-based instructions, significantly improving ease of operation while maintaining control precision.
3Loss of time
If alarm devices are silenced without locating the alarming device first, then response time is reduced, but safety deteriorates due to potential unnecessary disabling of devices
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by automatically executing the locate function before allowing silence. When an alarm is detected, the system first identifies and highlights the alarming device through LED indicators, ensuring users know which device to silence. Only after this preliminary location step does the system permit silencing, preventing accidental disabling of wrong devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic function sequencing where the available commands change based on current system state. The silence function becomes enabled only after the locate function has been executed, creating a dynamic workflow that adapts to the alarm situation. This state-dependent command availability ensures safety while maintaining efficient response.
Data Source
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AI summary
A controller (1) for a smoke, heat, and carbon monoxide alarm system automatically assigns one of a plurality of commands to a common user action button (10) press, according to circumstances. It assigns a test command if all of the alarm devices are in standby, a locate command if any of the alarm devices are alarming, and a hush command if its last command was a locate command. The processor activates output indicators to provide alarm condition information to a user, and there is a dedicated indicator (21-23) for each sensed condition. The processor controls the indicators (24-27) to inform the user of the command which would be assigned to a next button (10) press.