Upgradable Alarm System Communication Module

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Solution Overview

Problem

Security monitoring systems face challenges in adapting to rapidly changing wireless communication technologies, requiring commensurate upgrades to maintain system security and functionality.

Innovation Solution

An upgradable and configurable communication module within the alarm system, featuring a universal adapter and authorization circuit, allows for secure installation of new modems, enabling adaptation to evolving wireless standards and enhancing video transmission capabilities based on modem speed.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the security system uses fixed wireless communication technology, then system security is maintained, but the system cannot adapt to rapidly changing wireless communication standards

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to wireless communication standardsVSAvoidsystem security
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system transitions from a fixed communication module to a dynamic, replaceable modem architecture. The universal adapter allows different modem types to be installed based on evolving wireless standards while maintaining system security through the authorization circuit that verifies installer codes before allowing modifications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The communication system is divided into separate functional components: a permanent universal adapter embedded in the base controller and replaceable modems. This segmentation allows the adaptive modem component to be upgraded independently while the secure base controller remains unchanged.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If the system allows easy installation of new modems, then adaptability to new standards is improved, but system security may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodem upgrade capabilityVSAvoidsecurity risks from unauthorized changes
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The authorization circuit acts as an intermediary between the installer and the base controller. It mediates the installation process by requiring verification of an installer code through multiple communication attempts, allowing legitimate upgrades while blocking unauthorized access.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary verification of the installer code before allowing modem installation. The authorization circuit attempts to communicate the required code multiple times before installation begins, ensuring that only authorized personnel can upgrade the modem while maintaining system security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of operation

If the system uses a universal adapter for modem installation, then ease of upgrade is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodem installation easeVSAvoidbase controller complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The universal adapter is designed with multi-functionality to handle different modem types and communication protocols. This universal interface simplifies the installation process for technicians while consolidating the complexity into a single dedicated component rather than distributing it throughout the entire system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS9495845B1Control panel for security monitoring system providing cell-system upgrades
Publication Date: 2016.11.15 RSI VIDEO TECHNOLOGIES INC
  • US9495845B1 patent drawing
  • US9495845B1 patent drawing
  • US9495845B1 patent drawing

AI summary

Various aspects of the present disclosure are directed towards alarm systems, apparatus, and methods of using the systems and apparatus. In one embodiment, an alarm system includes intrusion sensor(s) and a central control panel that allows limited access to changes to a system configuration based upon the use of an installer code and the system configuration includes adding or changing interface modules. Additionally, the system includes an authorization circuit that requests the installer code from the remote location over a communications link and in response thereto, provides the installer code to the control circuit.