Electronic Exit Dogging With Wireless Security State Reporting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional exit device dogging mechanisms are limited by manual operation, high power consumption, and complex wire routing, which can be time-consuming and costly, and often fail to integrate effectively with security systems.
Innovation Solution
An electronic dogging mechanism with wireless communication capabilities, local sensor analysis, and efficient wire management, allowing for automated control and real-time reporting of security states, reducing power consumption and simplifying installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional mechanical dogging mechanisms are used, then the exit device can be set to dogged or undogged state, but manual operation is time-consuming and delays emergency response
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional mechanical dogging mechanism with an electronic system comprising an electronic dogging mechanism, controller, and wireless communication interface. The electronic dogging mechanism uses an electric motor to actuate the pushbar between extended and retracted positions, eliminating the need for manual manipulation of mechanical components. The controller receives wireless commands and automatically actuates the dogging mechanism, reducing response time while maintaining operational control.
2Extent of automation
If electrically-activated drivers are used to dog the exit device, then automated control is achieved, but power consumption is excessively high due to continuous energization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by energizing the electric motor only transiently during the actuation process. The controller energizes the motor to move the pushbar to the desired position (extended or retracted), then de-energizes it. The electronic dogging mechanism maintains its position through mechanical retention (such as a detent or latch mechanism) without requiring continuous power, thereby achieving automated control with minimal power consumption.
3Ease of manufacture
If wires are routed through the exit device components, then electronic components can be connected, but installation is complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the wiring complexity from the exit device installation by providing wire access points that allow wires to be routed externally or through simplified pathways. The electronic dogging mechanism and sensor assemblies include designated wire entry/exit points and routing channels that eliminate the need to route wires through moving parts or disassemble components, significantly reducing installation time and complexity.
4Reliability
If sensors are installed to detect door position, then security monitoring is improved, but wire routing becomes more complex and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by designing the wire access points and routing infrastructure to serve multiple functions. The same wire routing pathways and access points used for the electronic dogging mechanism are also utilized by sensor assemblies to transmit door position, force applied, and other security-relevant data. This shared infrastructure reduces overall wiring complexity while enabling comprehensive security monitoring.
Data Source
AI summary
An exit device according to one embodiment includes a plurality of sensors and an electronic dogging mechanism. The exit device is configured to locally analyze sensor data to determine the security state of the exit device, report data to a management system via a wireless communication channel established between the exit device and the management system, and receive and process instructions to perform an electronic dogging operation.