Multi-frame display for fire protection monitoring system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing facility monitoring systems face complexity and inefficiency due to lack of uniformity among different types of control panels, limited flexibility in message customization, and inadequate visual representation of alarm conditions, which hinders operator response in emergency situations.
Innovation Solution
A facility monitoring system that connects multiple monitoring devices to a central station, generating a multi-frame display configuration where information changes in one frame automatically update related information in others, using a CPU with customizable system monitor and graphics programs, and allowing for dynamic updating of device images and messages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If hardware converters are used to translate information from different control panels, then uniformity of information presentation is improved, but system cost increases and conversion completeness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a software-based message broker as an intermediary component that receives messages from diverse control panels and reformats them into a standardized format. This broker acts as a mediator between heterogeneous control panels and the central monitoring station, enabling uniform information presentation without requiring expensive hardware converters for each panel type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces physical hardware converters with a software-based message translation system. Instead of using semiconductor chips or dedicated conversion hardware for each control panel type, the system uses software programs running on the central station to translate and standardize messages from various panel types, significantly reducing hardware costs and complexity.
2Area of stationary object
If multiple control panels from different manufacturers are used to cover larger facilities, then monitoring coverage is improved, but system complexity increases due to lack of uniformity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal message format and standardized display interface that can accommodate messages from any control panel manufacturer. The system uses a common message structure with standardized fields for alarm type, location, and status, allowing diverse control panels to be integrated without increasing operational complexity. This universal approach enables the system to scale to large facilities while maintaining consistent information presentation.
3Device complexity
If fixed message formats are used in monitoring systems, then system simplicity is maintained, but flexibility in tailoring messages deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic message formatting capabilities that allow the system to adapt message content and format based on the specific alarm condition, device type, and user preferences. The message broker includes programmable fields that can be customized to display different information depending on the situation, while maintaining a standardized underlying structure. This dynamic approach enables flexible message tailoring without sacrificing system simplicity.
4Loss of information
If detailed information is provided for all devices in alarm conditions, then information completeness is improved, but operator response time deteriorates due to information overload
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing different levels of information detail in different display areas and contexts. The standardized message format includes essential information (alarm type, location, status) in prominent positions for immediate recognition, while additional detailed information is available in less prominent areas or upon request. This selective information presentation ensures operators receive critical data quickly while maintaining access to complete information when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A facility monitoring system connects to a plurality of monitoring devices positioned throughout a facility. Each of the plurality of monitoring devices is coupled with a monitoring station, wherein the monitoring station is configured to generate a configuration of a display having a plurality of frames. Each frame displays information simultaneously wherein change of information in one frame automatically alters information related to at least one of the plurality of monitoring devices in another frame.