Building Access Control Programming From Image-Based Device Layouts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for defining and programming access control and network systems in environments, such as buildings, are laborious, prone to errors, and require extensive manual intervention, especially in large installations with multiple devices and varying configurations.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system that uses image files to identify and program devices by receiving indicia representing device categories, associating them with user-defined data sets for behaviors and requirements, and converting this data into a format readable by an installation system for automated programming, reducing manual intervention and errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual programming methods are used for access control and network devices, then flexibility and adaptability are maintained, but the process becomes laborious, time-consuming, and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses image files (such as CAD drawings or photographs) of the building environment as a template or copy of the physical space. Device indicia are overlaid on this image representation, allowing the system to automatically extract device locations and configurations without manual surveying or programming, thereby increasing productivity and reducing errors
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of programming devices (where technicians physically configure each device) with an automated computer vision system that uses image processing and optical recognition to automatically identify devices and generate configuration data, eliminating manual intervention and reducing errors
2Measurement precision
If extensive manual survey and programming is performed for thousands of access points, then complete device identification is achieved, but the process takes considerable time and resources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by capturing an image of the entire building environment beforehand. This image serves as a pre-prepared dataset that contains all device information in visual form, allowing rapid automated processing later without needing to manually survey each device individually during the commissioning phase
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple functions into a single image file: the building layout, device locations, device types, and configuration parameters are all encoded together in the image with overlaid indicia. This consolidation allows the system to process all device information simultaneously rather than requiring separate manual steps for each device
3Adaptability or versatility
If trained programmers manually configure each device individually, then device-specific requirements are met, but the complexity and cost of installation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by placing specific device indicia (with unique identifiers and configuration data) at the exact locations where devices are installed in the building image. Each indicium contains localized information specific to that device's requirements, allowing the system to automatically generate appropriate configurations for each device while maintaining overall system coordination
Data Source
AI summary
A computer implemented method of programming access controllers in an environment, the method comprising the steps of: receiving an image file representative of the environment to be controlled, said image file comprising one more indicia representative of a device controlling access for an access point in the environment, said indicia comprising data representative of the requirements of the device; for each of the one or more indicia present on the image file identifying a device and associated device configuration data for the identified device, wherein the identified device complies with the requirements indicated by the indicia; writing the identified device data and associated configuration data into a format readable by a security management system and programming said security management system with the identified device data and associated configuration data.