System and method for handing off the configuration of a building device from a contractor to a customer using a hang tag or the like
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Solution Overview
Problem
Coordination between contractors and users during the setup process of building control systems is challenging, as both parties often operate in different phases of the setup, leading to inefficiencies and a need for improved communication and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A system that includes a remote computing device communicating with building control systems, allowing contractors to partially configure devices and leave instructions for users, such as messages on displays, clings, or hang tags, which include URLs and unique identifiers for further configuration, enabling users to register and connect devices to WiFi networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the contractor fully configures the building device during installation, then the device can perform all functions immediately, but the user cannot personalize the configuration settings to their preferences
Solution Approach 1:
The configuration process is segmented into two distinct phases: contractor configuration (core functions, device setup) and user configuration (personalization, preferences). This segmentation allows each party to perform their specific tasks without interference, resolving the contradiction between immediate functionality and user personalization.
Solution Approach 2:
The contractor performs preliminary configuration actions during installation to enable core device functionality. This preliminary setup includes basic device parameters and operational modes, allowing the device to function immediately while leaving personalization settings available for later user configuration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the contractor leaves the device for the user to configure later, then the user can personalize settings, but the device cannot perform core functions during the intervening time
Solution Approach 1:
The contractor performs preliminary configuration during installation to enable core device functionality before leaving. This includes setting basic operational parameters, device identification, and communication settings, ensuring the device is operationally ready while still allowing user personalization later.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is designed to support self-service configuration where the user can complete personalization settings at their convenience. The device maintains core functionality independently while providing interfaces for user customization, allowing both immediate operation and future adaptability.
3Ease of operation
If the contractor provides comprehensive configuration instructions to the user, then the user can complete setup, but the coordination between contractor and user becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
A message object serves as an intermediary between the contractor and user. This message object contains pre-formatted configuration instructions, device information, and setup guidance, eliminating the need for complex direct coordination while enabling user self-configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses message objects that can be copied and transmitted between devices and users. These standardized message templates contain all necessary configuration information and instructions, simplifying the coordination process while maintaining ease of user operation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the system provides different functionality for contractors and users, then each role gets appropriate features, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Different functionality is provided at different stages of the configuration process rather than simultaneously. The contractor interface enables comprehensive device setup and message creation, while the user interface focuses on personalization and completion of configuration. This temporal and functional separation maintains system simplicity while providing role-specific capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates generally to systems, methods and tools for coordinating the activities of a contractor and a user during a setup process of a building control system. In some instances, a contractor may install a building device and then partially configure the building device. The contractor may then leave a message at the building device for a customer. The message may including an instruction on how the customer can take action to further configure the building device. In some cases, the message may include an electronic message displayed on a display of the building device. In some cases, the message may be on a cling that is releasably secured to a face of the building device and/or may be on a hang tag that is releasably secured to the building device.