Voice-Driven Interactive Commissioning for Solo BMS Field Technicians
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional commissioning tasks for field devices supported by a Building Management System (BMS) require two technicians, often necessitating awkward positions and manual handling of equipment, which can be inefficient and hazardous.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and device that enables interactive commissioning through voice-delivered responses to audible prompts, allowing a single technician to perform commissioning activities using a repository of workflow sequences that include user activities and automated system processes, reducing the need for manual intervention and enabling solo operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two technicians are used for commissioning tasks, then the commissioning can be completed with proper supervision and coordination, but the complexity of the commissioning process increases and the time required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The commissioning system performs self-service through automated workflows where the BMS automatically executes commissioning tasks based on predefined sequences. The system self-manages the coordination between technicians and devices without requiring constant human-to-human communication, thereby maintaining reliability while reducing process complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a commissioning system as an intermediary between technicians and the BMS. This intermediary automates the coordination and communication processes, replacing the need for direct technician-to-technician interaction and reducing the complexity of manual commissioning procedures while maintaining reliable task completion.
2Reliability
If two technicians are deployed for field device commissioning, then proper monitoring and assistance can be provided, but the time required for commissioning tasks increases
Solution Approach 1:
The commissioning system provides self-service capabilities by automatically monitoring and assisting field device commissioning through predefined workflows. The BMS autonomously tracks commissioning progress and provides necessary support functions, eliminating the need for a second technician to physically accompany the field technician while maintaining reliable monitoring and assistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of human-to-human coordination with an automated digital system. The BMS uses software-based workflows and communication protocols to substitute the physical presence and coordination functions of a second technician, thereby reducing commissioning time while maintaining support reliability.
3Reliability
If technicians access field devices in challenging positions, then complete commissioning coverage is achieved, but the risk of accidents increases
Solution Approach 1:
The commissioning system performs self-service by automatically accessing and monitoring field devices through integrated sensors and communication interfaces. The BMS autonomously collects data from devices in challenging positions without requiring a second technician to physically access these locations, thereby achieving complete commissioning coverage while eliminating safety risks associated with technician exposure to hazardous environments.
4Adaptability or versatility
If manual handling of equipment is required during commissioning, then flexibility in performing tasks is maintained, but the efficiency of the commissioning process decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical handling of equipment with automated electronic systems. The BMS uses software-based control and communication protocols to automatically configure and test field devices, substituting manual operations with automated processes that maintain task flexibility through programmable workflows while significantly improving commissioning efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The commissioning system achieves flexibility through parameter changes in software configurations rather than manual physical adjustments. The BMS allows dynamic modification of commissioning parameters, thresholds, and sequences through software interfaces, maintaining adaptability to different commissioning scenarios while eliminating the time-consuming nature of manual equipment handling.
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein are frameworks and methodologies configured to assist configuring devices supported by a building management system. Embodiments of the invention have been particularly developed to allow commissioning of devices, such as HVAC components, to be performed more efficiently in the field. While some embodiments will be described herein with particular reference to that application, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to such a field of use, and is applicable in broader contexts.