Remote Interface Actuator for Fire Alarm Control Panels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fire alarm system testing and maintenance require multiple technicians to physically interact with control panels and remote devices, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs due to the need for manual activation and verification of fire detectors and system resets.
Innovation Solution
The development of an interface actuator device that allows remote control and monitoring of control panel interfaces using a mobile device, equipped with an actuator for controlling buttons and a camera for image capture, enabling technicians to perform tasks from a distance and reducing the need for multiple technicians to be present.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple technicians are used for walkthrough testing and maintenance, then the control panel and remote devices can be monitored and controlled simultaneously, but the cost and time requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
An automated interface actuator device is introduced as an intermediary between the technician and the control panel interface. The actuator includes a plunger that can automatically press buttons, navigate menus, and interact with the control panel, eliminating the need for a second technician to manually operate the interface while the first technician tests remote devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The control panel interface is enabled to operate autonomously through the automated actuator device. The actuator can automatically perform acknowledgments, system resets, and other interface operations without human intervention, allowing the system to service itself during testing procedures.
2Ease of operation
If a technician physically interacts with the control panel interface, then direct control and monitoring are achieved, but travel time between the panel and remote devices increases
Solution Approach 1:
The interface actuator serves as a robotic intermediary that remains positioned at the control panel while remotely executing interface operations. This allows the technician to work at remote devices without needing to physically return to the control panel, as the actuator autonomously performs all necessary interface interactions.
3Reliability
If manual interface operation is used during testing, then technicians can verify system responses, but the process becomes repetitive and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator device autonomously performs repetitive interface operations such as pressing acknowledgment buttons, navigating through menus, and executing system resets. This automation maintains verification accuracy while eliminating the manual labor and repetition associated with traditional walkthrough testing procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator can continuously and repeatedly perform interface operations without fatigue or interruption. Unlike manual operation which requires pauses and repositioning, the automated actuator maintains continuous operation, pressing buttons and navigating interfaces without interruption to maximize testing efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
An interface actuator device, an interface actuator system, and a system and method for remotely controlling an interface of a control panel are disclosed. The interface actuator device includes an actuator for controlling the interface of the control panel and an attachment mechanism for mounting the interface actuator device to the control panel. The system can further include a camera for capturing images of the interface and a mobile device for controlling the actuator and viewing the images from the camera.