Mobile Device Live Paging Override for Fire Control Panels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators in emergency notification systems, such as fire safety systems, often face delays in broadcasting audio messages due to lack of immediate access to a microphone at the fire alarm control panel, especially during walk-throughs in remote areas.
Innovation Solution
A live paging system that enables operators to broadcast audio messages from mobile devices connected to the control panel via a proxy or gateway application, allowing override paging capabilities to notification devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If operators use the FACP's microphone to broadcast audio messages, then reliable notification can be achieved, but operators must return to the FACP which causes time delays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a wireless communication intermediary (mobile device with application) that mediates between the operator and the FACP microphone. The operator can initiate paging requests and transmit audio messages wirelessly from remote locations, eliminating the need to physically return to the FACP while maintaining reliable notification through the established communication infrastructure.
2Ease of operation
If operators carry mobile devices with communication capabilities, then immediate broadcasting from remote areas is enabled, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the universal multi-functionality of mobile devices (smartphones, tablets, or other portable communication devices) that operators already possess. By developing an application for these existing devices rather than requiring specialized equipment, the system achieves broad accessibility while minimizing additional complexity. The mobile device's existing communication capabilities are utilized to interface with the FACP.
3Productivity
If operators can page from any location using mobile devices, then response efficiency improves, but authentication and security management becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service authentication mechanisms where the mobile device application automatically manages security credentials and authentication tokens. The system handles verification of operator identity and authorization status programmatically, reducing the manual burden on operators while maintaining robust security. Authentication credentials are managed automatically by the application rather than requiring manual security procedures.
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems (100), methods, and devices for live paging from a mobile device (400) in operable communication with a fire control panel (200) are provided. Upon an occurrence of a stimulus activity at a fire control panel, e.g., an emergency event, an operator, remote from the fire control panel, may launch a control application (270) from the mobile device. Upon launching the control application, a connection between the mobile device and the fire control panel may be established, and a microphone (415) coupled to the mobile device may be activated for the operator to begin paging. The page may then be broadcasted in real-time via one or more annunciators (268) operably connected to the fire control panel, or, as a recorded message.