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 domains, leading to inefficiencies and a need for improved communication and configuration methods.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that involves contractors partially configuring building devices to perform core functions, leaving instructions for users to further configure them, including registration with a remote computing device, using messages displayed on the devices or attached substrates, and utilizing a portal for both contractors and users to manage and configure building control systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the contractor fully configures the building device, then the device can perform all functions, but the user cannot personalize the configuration to their preferences
Solution Approach 1:
The configuration process is segmented into two distinct phases: contractor configuration (core functionality setup) and user configuration (personalization). The system separates these roles through different user interfaces and authentication mechanisms, allowing each party to perform their specific tasks without interfering with the other's capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The contractor performs preliminary configuration actions to establish core device functionality before the user arrives. This includes basic setup, network configuration, and essential parameters. The system preserves this preliminary configuration while enabling the user to add personalization layers on top, rather than requiring complete reconfiguration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the contractor leaves the device unconfigured, then the user can fully personalize it, but the device cannot perform core functions during the intervening time
Solution Approach 1:
The contractor performs preliminary configuration to establish core device functionality before departing. The system is designed to preserve this configuration state and maintain device operation during the interval before user personalization, ensuring reliability is not compromised by the handoff process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts its configuration state based on user interaction. Initially, the device operates in a contractor-configured state with core functionality enabled. Upon user authentication, the system transitions to allow personalization while maintaining operational continuity, rather than requiring a complete configuration reset.
3Ease of operation
If the system provides the same interface to both contractors and users, then the interface is simple, but contractors cannot access additional features and functionality
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements local quality by providing different interface capabilities to different user roles. Contractors authenticate with specific credentials that grant access to advanced configuration features, while users receive a simplified interface for personalization only. The underlying system remains the same, but the presented interface quality varies by user type and authentication state.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses an intermediary authentication mechanism (contractor-specific login credentials) to mediate between the simple user interface and the complex contractor capabilities. This intermediary layer allows the system to maintain interface simplicity for end users while providing expanded functionality to authorized contractors through a gatekeeping authentication process.
4Ease of operation
If the contractor provides detailed configuration instructions, then the user can complete setup, but communication and coordination between contractor and user remains challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the user's configuration actions are tracked and communicated back to the contractor through a shared portal or notification system. This allows the contractor to monitor setup progress and provide targeted assistance only when needed, rather than requiring comprehensive initial instructions for every possible scenario.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service configuration for the user through an intuitive interface that guides them through personalization steps without requiring detailed contractor-provided instructions. The interface itself provides contextual help and validation, reducing the information that needs to be communicated between contractor and user while maintaining setup completeness.
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.