Integrated Security Component in Building Wiring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing security and automation systems require running new electrical and communication lines to power and connect components, which is inconvenient and costly, especially when retrofitting existing infrastructure.
Innovation Solution
Integrating security and automation components into existing electrical wiring and devices, such as outlets and switches, to provide power and communication capabilities, allowing for voice control and intercom functions through a control panel, using a processor, memory, and wireless communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If new electrical and communication lines are run to power and connect security and automation components, then reliable power and communication are provided, but installation cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes existing electrical wiring serve dual purposes: continuing to provide power to electrical devices while simultaneously functioning as a communication network for security and automation components. This eliminates the need for separate communication wiring, reducing installation complexity while maintaining reliable communication through the existing robust electrical infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
Existing electrical outlets and switches are made to perform multiple functions: their original power distribution function plus new functions as communication interfaces and control points for security/automation systems. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for additional dedicated wiring infrastructure
2Use of energy by moving object
If new electrical wiring is installed to power security and automation devices, then adequate power supply is ensured, but installation time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the preliminary infrastructure of existing electrical wiring and outlets that were already installed in the building. By utilizing this pre-existing power and communication infrastructure, the system avoids the time-consuming process of installing new wiring, enabling rapid deployment of security and automation components without compromising power supply capability
3Device complexity
If existing electrical infrastructure is utilized for both power and communication, then installation cost and complexity are reduced, but potential interference between power and communication signals may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces communication modules with signal conditioning circuits that act as intermediaries between the electrical wiring and communication components. These modules filter, isolate, and condition the signals to prevent electrical noise and interference from corrupting communication data, enabling reliable operation over the shared electrical infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The communication modules transform communication signals into forms suitable for transmission over electrical wiring by modifying signal parameters such as voltage levels, frequency, and modulation schemes. This parameter transformation allows communication signals to coexist with power transmission by operating in different electrical domains and reducing mutual interference
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method for implementing an integrated device includes operating a component of a security and/or automation system, wherein the component is housed with an electronic device that is connected to electrical wiring of a building, communicating between the component and a control panel of the security and/or automation system, and providing power to the component and the electronic device through the electrical wiring.