Automated Testing Framework for Building Control Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional building automation systems (BAS) face delays in data reporting, limited flexibility, and inefficiencies in real-time data analysis, making it difficult to detect and address issues promptly, especially in complex HVAC systems where multiple devices rely on network operations for continuous and efficient operation.
Innovation Solution
An automated testing system that uses computer processors to correlate control system points with test variables, execute test sequences, analyze results for discrepancies, and generate reports or instructions to improve system performance, allowing for real-time adjustments and optimization of building control systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional building automation systems use periodic data monitoring with intervals of 1-15 minutes, then system complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but real-time detection capability deteriorates and response time increases to six hours or even six months
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by proactively testing control points and detecting anomalies before they cause system failures. The automated testing framework continuously monitors and evaluates system health, identifying potential issues in advance and enabling preventive maintenance, thus reducing response time without increasing operational complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback loops where test results are immediately analyzed and used to adjust monitoring strategies. The automated framework provides real-time feedback on system performance, enabling dynamic response to detected anomalies and significantly reducing the time lag between issue detection and response action
2Device complexity
If conventional systems use pre-established data points and pre-programmed operational limits, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to new building components and energy efficiency standards deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static pre-programmed limits to dynamic adaptive thresholds. The automated testing framework continuously learns from system behavior patterns and adjusts operational limits dynamically, enabling the system to adapt to new building components and energy efficiency standards without increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables parameter changes by allowing operational limits and data points to be dynamically modified based on detected patterns and performance metrics. The automated framework can adjust monitoring parameters, thresholds, and test frequencies in response to changing system conditions and requirements, maintaining low complexity while high adaptability
3Ease of operation
If building automation systems perform self-diagnostics, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates because the BAS may not be working properly and test results could be skewed or invalidated
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces an intermediary automated testing framework that acts as an independent watchdog between the BAS and the diagnostic process. This external testing system objectively evaluates BAS performance without being influenced by BAS operational states, ensuring reliable test results while maintaining ease of operation through automation
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service through automated testing that independently evaluates system health without requiring external intervention. The automated framework continuously monitors and tests BAS functionality, generating reliable diagnostics autonomously and enabling the system to self-identify issues without compromising reliability
4Measurement precision
If conventional systems manually test building automation systems with field technicians, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to manual-intensive methods being financially unviable for ensuring reliable operation
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual mechanical testing methods with automated electronic testing frameworks. The automated testing framework uses computer-controlled protocols to evaluate BAS performance, maintaining measurement precision while dramatically increasing productivity and making comprehensive testing financially viable
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service through automated testing that independently evaluates system health without requiring external intervention. The automated framework continuously monitors and tests BAS functionality, generating reliable diagnostics autonomously and enabling the system to self-identify issues without compromising reliability
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments provide systems, methods, and computer program products for diagnosing an operational functionality and/or performance of one or more building controlled systems. Such are generally configured to: correlate one or more control system points with one or more test variables associated with one or more test sequences; execute at least one of said one or more test sequences based at least in part upon said correlation and at least in part upon one or more user-defined parameters, the execution generating test data indicative of one or more results; at least in part analyze the test data to identify whether one or more discrepancies exist therein, the identification being based at least in part upon a comparison of the test data with the one or more control system point properties; and generate at least one of one or more reports, one or more alerts, or one or more instructions.