Decentralized Locking Device Coordination via Sensor Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional building systems require manual initiation and control of locking devices, limiting automation and efficient operation of multiple locking devices within a building.
Innovation Solution
A system where each locking device is equipped with a control device having a communication interface, allowing them to communicate and coordinate based on sensor signals from various environmental condition detectors, enabling decentralized control and automated operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation of locking devices is used, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation and productivity deteriorate due to extensive user interaction required
Solution Approach 1:
The locking devices are equipped with sensor devices that automatically detect environmental conditions and trigger appropriate actions without user intervention. The control units process sensor signals and autonomously control the locking devices, enabling the system to serve itself and eliminating the need for manual operation.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical operation is replaced by an automated control system comprising sensor devices, communication interfaces, and control units. The mechanical action of opening/closing locking devices is substituted with an automated decision-making process based on sensor input, replacing human interaction with an electronic control mechanism.
2Extent of automation
If decentralized control with communication interfaces is implemented, then extent of automation improves, but device complexity increases due to multiple control units and communication protocols
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into distributed control units, each associated with a specific locking device. This segmentation allows autonomous decision-making at each node while maintaining overall system coordination through communication interfaces, enabling high automation without requiring a complex centralized control architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
Each control unit is designed as a multi-functional module that can detect environmental conditions via sensor devices, process sensor signals, communicate with other control units, and control its associated locking device. This universal design reduces overall system complexity by using standardized components rather than specialized dedicated systems.
3Productivity
If coordination between multiple locking devices is implemented, then productivity improves through automated operation, but loss of information increases due to communication requirements between control units
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback loops where sensor devices continuously monitor environmental conditions and provide real-time information to control units. Control units exchange status information and coordination data through communication interfaces, ensuring that all devices have access to current system state information and can make informed decisions without information loss.
Data Source
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AI summary
A building system comprises at least two locking devices, each having a frame, an adjustable sash movably arranged on the frame, an electromechanical drive device for adjusting the adjustable sash or a component thereof, and a control unit, and at least one sensor device for generating a sensor signal depending on at least one environmental condition. The control unit (40-43) of each locking device (20-23) has a communication interface (401), and the control units (40-43) of the at least two locking devices (20-23) are configured to communicate with each other via their communication interfaces (401) to control the at least two locking devices (20-23) depending on the sensor signal of the at least one sensor device (30-35).In this way, a building system is provided in which processes that are conventionally initiated and controlled by a user can take place in a largely automated manner, thus making it easier for a user to operate a number of locking devices in a building.