Fire Control Panel Configuration via Spatial Asset Model Transfer

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Solution Overview

Problem

Replacing fire control panels in facilities poses challenges due to the lack of configuration data and the complexity of matching correct configuration files with the correct panels, often requiring on-site expertise and resulting in potential loss of system history and connectivity issues.

Innovation Solution

A system that uses a computing device to create a spatial asset model of the fire control system, allowing for the transmission of configuration information to a new fire control panel, enabling remote synchronization and reducing the need for physical site visits, with guided steps for correcting installation errors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Duration of action of stationary object

If a new fire control panel is installed to replace an existing one, then the system can be updated and maintained, but configuration data is lost and commissioning time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommissioning timeVSAvoidconfiguration data
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of stationary objectVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by automatically detecting the replacement of the fire control panel and proactively initiating the transfer of configuration data from the old panel to the new one before the replacement process is complete. This includes automatically identifying the new panel, locating configuration data, and establishing the data transfer pathway in advance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system creates a copy of the configuration data from the old fire control panel and transfers it to the new panel. This copying process ensures that all necessary configuration information, including device addresses, communication parameters, and system settings, is replicated accurately to maintain system functionality during replacement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Productivity

If configuration data is transferred automatically, then commissioning time is reduced, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation efficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The fire control system performs self-service by automatically detecting panel replacement, identifying the new panel, locating configuration data, and initiating the transfer process without requiring manual intervention from technicians. The system monitors its own state and executes the configuration transfer autonomously, reducing installation complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements feedback mechanisms to monitor the replacement process and configuration data transfer. It detects when a panel is replaced, verifies the new panel's readiness, tracks the transfer progress, and confirms successful configuration migration, allowing the system to adapt to changes automatically.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Reliability

If manual configuration is performed on-site, then configuration accuracy is ensured, but installation costs and time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration accuracyVSAvoidcommissioning time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary configuration data extraction and preparation before the physical replacement occurs. Configuration data is automatically collected from the old panel, validated, and ready for transfer, ensuring accuracy is maintained while eliminating the need for manual on-site configuration work.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces manual mechanical configuration processes with automated digital data transfer. Instead of technicians manually copying settings or using complex configuration tools on-site, the system uses automated detection and transfer mechanisms to move configuration data, simplifying the installation process while maintaining accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentEP3712867B1Fire control panel configuration
Publication Date: 2023.11.08 HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC
  • EP3712867B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3712867B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3712867B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Methods, devices, and systems for fire control panel configuration are described herein. In some examples, one or more embodiments include a memory, and a processor to execute executable instructions stored in the memory to receive configuration information for a fire control system of a facility, create a spatial asset model of the fire control system using the configuration information for the fire control system, and transmit, in response to detecting a replacement of a fire control panel in the fire control system with a new fire control panel, the spatial asset model to the new fire control panel.