Automatic Enrollment of Two-Way Wireless Security Sensors

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current two-way wireless security systems require extensive manual input for sensor enrollment, leading to errors and inefficiencies, especially when enrolling multiple devices.

Innovation Solution

A method and system that automatically enrolls two-way wireless devices by receiving unique identifiers via wireless signals and confirming enrollment through a controller, reducing manual intervention and eliminating errors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If manual enrollment methods are used for two-way wireless sensors, then the controller can obtain sensor information, but extensive manual input is required which is arduous and error-prone

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenrollment accuracyVSAvoidenrollment effort
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The sensor device automatically transmits its unique identifier to the controller through wireless communication, eliminating the need for manual data entry. The system performs self-enrollment where the sensor serves itself by providing its identification information automatically, thus improving reliability while reducing operational effort

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The manual mechanical process of reading serial numbers from plates and typing them into keypads is replaced with an automated electronic wireless transmission system. The controller receives the unique identifier electronically via wireless signal, substituting the manual mechanical enrollment process with an automated electronic system that is both more reliable and easier to operate

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of operation

If automated enrollment systems are used, then manual input is reduced, but sensors must be operated in unique manners or passed close to the controller

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenrollment simplicityVSAvoidenrollment procedure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The sensor device maintains its standard operating functions while adding the capability to automatically transmit its unique identifier for enrollment purposes. The device serves multiple functions: its normal sensing operation and its self-enrollment function, without requiring special operational modes or procedures

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

Solution Approach 2:

The enrollment information (unique identifier) is extracted and transmitted wirelessly from the sensor device to the controller, separating the enrollment function from the physical proximity requirement. This allows enrollment to occur without needing to pass the sensor close to the controller or use special operational modes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Productivity

If manual enrollment is performed for multiple sensors, then each sensor can be enrolled, but the process becomes increasingly time-consuming and error-prone

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenrollment speedVSAvoidenrollment accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

Each sensor device automatically provides its unique identifier to the controller through wireless transmission, enabling rapid enrollment of multiple sensors without manual intervention. This self-service mechanism maintains high accuracy while dramatically increasing enrollment speed when dealing with multiple devices

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The enrollment process can be performed continuously for multiple sensors without interruption or repetition of manual steps. Each sensor transmits its identifier sequentially or simultaneously via wireless communication, allowing the controller to enroll multiple sensors in a continuous automated process that maintains accuracy while improving productivity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Data Source

PatentUS8373553B2System and method for automatic enrollment of two-way wireless sensors in a security system
Publication Date: 2013.02.12 TYCO FIRE & SECURITY GMBH
  • US8373553B2 patent drawing
  • US8373553B2 patent drawing
  • US8373553B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system and method are disclosed for enrolling two-way wireless security system devices (alarms, detectors, lights) in a security system. A controller is provided and is capable of exchanging wireless signals with the two-way wireless devices. The system has an enroll mode where the two-way wireless devices transmit enroll signals to the controller. The enroll signals contain an identifier associated with each device. An installer uses a keypad or other interface device to confirm enrollment of each of the devices. The controller sends an enroll confirmation signal back to the two-way wireless devices confirming that the devices have been enrolled. In response, each of the devices emits an audible or visual enroll confirmation signal to the installer.