Microprocessor Service Panel for Emergency Utility Shut-Off
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for controlling utility services in school science classrooms, such as electrical and plumbing services, are inefficient and pose safety hazards due to remote location of control switches, difficulty in accessing valves, and lack of emergency shut-off capabilities, leading to potential accidents and damage.
Innovation Solution
A service panel with a microprocessor-controlled utility controller that allows centralized control and emergency shut-off, integrated with building automation systems, featuring a touchscreen interface, RF remote control, and panic button for immediate deactivation, along with programmable logic for safe operation and monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If control switches and valves are located remotely from the service panel, then safety isolation is improved, but accessibility for maintenance and emergency response deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines previously separate components (control switches, solenoid valves, and service panel) into an integrated assembly. The solenoid valves are mounted directly on the service panel, eliminating the need for remote location and complex wiring while maintaining safety isolation through the panel's enclosure.
Solution Approach 2:
The service panel acts as an intermediary housing that brings control functionality to the user interface location. By mounting solenoid valves and control circuitry within the panel, the system provides both safety isolation and easy accessibility without requiring remote components.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If control switches are concealed within cabinets or walls, then unauthorized access is prevented, but emergency shut-off capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The service panel uses a segmented access system with different levels of accessibility. The main panel enclosure provides security against unauthorized access, while the emergency shut-off button is segmented as a separate, easily accessible component that can be operated without opening the panel or using special tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The emergency shut-off function is extracted from the concealed control mechanisms and provided as a separate, externally accessible button on the panel face. This allows emergency response without requiring access to the concealed control switches or valves.
3Reliability
If solenoid valves and control circuitry are remotely located, then safety isolation is improved, but device complexity and wiring requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the solenoid valves, control circuitry, and service panel into a single integrated assembly. This eliminates the need for separate remote mounting and complex interconnections, reducing wiring requirements while maintaining safety isolation through the panel's enclosed design.
Data Source
AI summary
A service panel for controlling at least one utility actuator to control the availability of a utility comprises a covered enclosure having an exterior region and an interior region, at least one readily accessible utility control providing ON and OFF request signals and a limited access control in the exterior region providing a temporary activate signal. The service panel has a controller and data storage programmed with code and data and control circuitry providing an “ON” control signal to the at least one utility actuator to switch the at least one utility actuator to the “ON” state, and the control circuitry providing an “OFF” control signal to the at least one utility actuator to switch the at least one utility actuator to an OFF state, the control circuitry further providing a re-key signal to the at least one actuator in response to activation of a switch.