Wireless Communication Module for Remote Building Protection System Servicing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The labor-intensive nature of servicing, troubleshooting, and monitoring fire and security protection systems in buildings, which often require multiple technicians and cumbersome equipment like laptops for reporting, hinders efficient operation and compliance with regulatory testing requirements.
Innovation Solution
A wireless communication module that connects to the control panel of the protection system, enabling a portable service tool to remotely access and control the system, allowing technicians to perform tasks from a distance and generate reports without the need for physical presence at the control panel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a wired connection with a dedicated access point is used for servicing the protection system, then system reliability is improved, but device complexity and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
A wireless communication module serves as an intermediary between the control panel and the service tool, enabling communication without direct wired connections. The module includes a wireless transceiver that communicates with service tools wirelessly, eliminating the need for technicians to be physically present at the control panel while maintaining reliable system access.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical wired connection system with a wireless communication system. Instead of using physical cables and dedicated access points that require technician presence, the system uses wireless transceivers to communicate system status and control commands, reducing device complexity and labor requirements.
2Measurement precision
If a laptop computer is used for reporting and data output, then measurement precision is improved, but portability and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The reporting and data output functionality is extracted from the heavy laptop computer and integrated directly into the wireless service tool. The service tool can generate and output reports locally without requiring connection to an external laptop or printer, improving portability while maintaining reporting accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The service tool is designed as a multi-functional device that combines wireless communication, system monitoring, data collection, and report generation capabilities in a single portable unit. This eliminates the need for separate laptop and printer equipment, making the service tool universally capable of performing all servicing functions.
3Reliability
If multiple technicians are deployed for remote component testing, then system reliability is improved, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The service tool enables a single technician to independently perform all testing and servicing functions without requiring coordination with other technicians. The wireless communication capability allows the technician to control the control panel and monitor components remotely from the location of the remote device, making the system self-servicing with one person.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds the dimension of spatial flexibility by enabling remote control and monitoring from any location within wireless range. Instead of requiring multiple technicians to be physically present at different locations, the service tool allows one technician to operate from the remote device location, transforming the servicing approach from location-bound to mobility-based.
Data Source
AI summary
A communication module communicates between the tools or control panel and the technician. A communications module connects to or by the control panel or other controller of the protection system. The communications module wirelessly communicates with a service tool, such as a personal data assistant. The technician may control the protection system with the service tool from a remote location, such as by a monitoring device or other component being tested. The communications module may be taken with the technician when testing is complete or left in the building for later use. The communications module is provided as part of the protection system or is added at a later time to an existing system.