In-field Sensor Programming via Magnetic Modulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Security systems often require on-site access to security panels to 'learn' new sensors, which is impractical when the security provider lacks the necessary passcode, making it difficult to replace defective sensors without disrupting the system.
Innovation Solution
A stand-alone programming device and method that use a transducer to modulate magnetic fields, RF signals, or infra-red light to program replacement sensors with identification information, allowing them to mimic the defective sensor's serial number and operate seamlessly within the security system without needing panel access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a new sensor is replaced in the security system, then the system can continue to function, but access to the security panel is required to 'learn' the new sensor which may not be available if the provider lacks the passcode
Solution Approach 1:
A portable programming device is introduced as an intermediary tool that enables sensor programming without requiring access to the security panel. The device contains a transducer that modulates magnetic fields to communicate sensor data directly to the replacement sensor, bypassing the need for panel authentication while maintaining system reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The traditional mechanical/access-based sensor learning process (requiring physical access to the security panel with proper authentication) is replaced with a magnetic field-based wireless communication system. The portable programming device uses a transducer to generate modulated magnetic fields that carry sensor programming data, eliminating the need for panel access
2Reliability
If the security provider does not have the passcode, then security is maintained, but the provider cannot access the security panel to program new sensors
Solution Approach 1:
The portable programming device serves as an intermediary that bypasses the security panel authentication requirement. It directly programs the replacement sensor using modulated magnetic fields, allowing security providers to maintain authentication security while still enabling sensor replacement through an alternative programming path
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor programming function is segmented from the security panel authentication system. Instead of requiring access to the centralized security panel, the programming capability is distributed to a portable device that can independently program sensors using magnetic field communication, separating the authentication function from the programming function
3Ease of operation
If a portable programming device uses a transducer to modulate magnetic fields for sensor programming, then panel access is eliminated, but the device requires additional components (transducer, driver circuitry)
Solution Approach 1:
The portable programming device integrates multiple functions into a single unit: it contains a microcontroller for data processing, a transducer for magnetic field generation, and a battery for power supply. This multi-functional integration enables the device to programm sensors without panel access while keeping the overall system portable and self-contained
Solution Approach 2:
The transducer in the portable programming device changes the physical parameters of the magnetic field by modulating its frequency and amplitude according to the sensor data being programmed. This parameter modulation allows encoding of programming information in the magnetic field without requiring complex communication protocols or additional hardware
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables the replacement of defective sensors without requiring access to the security panel, ensuring continuous system functionality and simplifying the replacement process for security service providers.
Implementation Method 1
a transducer for modulating a magnetic field, an RF signal or infra-red light
Data Source
AI summary
A method, system, and apparatus for programming a sensor at a customer location is disclosed. A defective sensor at a customer location is replaced by a new sensor that is programmed at the customer location using a programming device or a transducer coupled to a computing device. The new sensor is programming using the sensor's detector normally used to sense a change in a magnetic field, an RF signal, infra-red light, or some other emission or property.