U.S. patent application number 14/192515 was filed with the patent office on 2017-08-03 for monitoring removal of an automation control panel.
This patent application is currently assigned to Vivint, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Vivint, Inc.. Invention is credited to Jungtaik Hwang, James E. Nye.
Application Number | 20170220014 14/192515 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51531382 |
Filed Date | 2017-08-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170220014 |
Kind Code |
A9 |
Nye; James E. ; et
al. |
August 3, 2017 |
MONITORING REMOVAL OF AN AUTOMATION CONTROL PANEL
Abstract
A control panel is used to control and/or monitor an automation
system. The control panel may be removed from a mounted location to
repair or replace the control panel. Replacement may be performed
by a different provider of automation systems, potentially without
prior notice to the current provider of the automation system. To
alert the provider of the replacement, the control panel may use an
anti-tamper switch to detect removal from the mounted location. A
signal may be sent to a remote service system indicating the
removal. If the control panel also loses AC power, or if the
control panel loses all power, the remote service system may assume
that the control panel is being replaced. In response, the remote
service center may request that a customer service representative
contact the customer to potentially retain the customer, recover
equipment, or resolve any concerns about the automation system
equipment.
Inventors: |
Nye; James E.; (Alpine,
UT) ; Hwang; Jungtaik; (Draper, UT) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Vivint, Inc. |
Provo |
UT |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Vivint, Inc.
Provo
UT
|
Prior
Publication: |
|
Document Identifier |
Publication Date |
|
US 20140277609 A1 |
September 18, 2014 |
|
|
Family ID: |
51531382 |
Appl. No.: |
14/192515 |
Filed: |
February 27, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61791021 |
Mar 15, 2013 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G05B 19/048 20130101;
G05B 2219/23043 20130101; G05B 2219/25097 20130101; G05B 15/02
20130101 |
International
Class: |
G05B 19/048 20060101
G05B019/048 |
Claims
1. A method of monitoring a control panel of an automation system,
the method comprising: determining a tamper sensor of the control
panel has been activated; determining the control panel has lost
access to at least one power supply; determining the control panel
has been removed from a mounted location; and notifying a customer
service system.
2. The method recited in claim 1, further including: receiving a
message from the control panel, the message indicating removal of
the control panel has been detected.
3. The method recited in claim 1 further including: receiving a
message from the control panel, the message indicating access to
the at least one power supply has been lost.
4. The method recited in claim 1, further including: receiving at
least two messages from the control panel, wherein: a first message
indicates the control panel has been removed from the mounted
location; and a second message indicates the control panel has lost
access to at least one power supply.
5. The method recited in claim 1, wherein determining that the
control panel has lost access to at least one power supply
includes: sending a request to the control panel, and after sending
the request to the control panel, receiving a response message
indicating access to the at least one power supply has been lost,
or determining a response to the request to the control panel has
not been received.
6. The method recited in claim 5, wherein determining that a
response to the request to the control panel has not been received
includes: determining all power to the control panel has been lost;
and. determining the control panel has lost access to a primary
power supply.
7. The method recited in claim 1, further including: determining
the control panel has been replaced; and initiating a follow-up
with a user of the control panel.
8. A method, comprising: at a control panel of an automation
system, detecting the control panel has been removed from a mounted
location; after detecting the control panel has been removed,
determining whether the control panel lost access to a primary
power supply; and sending a message to a remote service system, the
message at least indicating the control panel has been removed from
the mounted location.
9. The method recited in claim 8, the message further indicating
whether the control panel lost access to the primary power
supply.
10. The method recited in claim 8, wherein sending the message is
performed after determining whether the control panel lost access
to the primary power supply.
11. The method recited in claim 8, wherein sending the message is
performed before determining whether the control panel lost access
to the primary power supply.
12. The method recited in claim 11, further comprising: before
determining whether the control panel lost access to the primary
power supply, receiving a signal from the remote service
system.
13. The method recited in claim 12, wherein the received signal is
a ping message.
14. The method recited in claim 12, wherein determining whether the
control panel lost access to the primary power supply is performed
in response to receiving the signal from the remote service
system.
15. A control panel for an automation system, comprising: an
anti-tamper switch configured to detect removal of the control
panel from a mounted location; a sensor configured to detect the
presence of primary power; a tamper monitoring module that monitors
the anti-tamper switch and the sensor; one or more processors in
communication with the tamper monitoring module; and a
communication interface connected to the one or more processors for
sending messages to a remote service system.
16. The control panel recited in claim 15, further comprising: one
or more computer storage media having stored thereon computer
executable instructions that, when executed, cause the one or more
processors to: send a message to the remote service system upon
determining that the anti-tamper switch indicates the control panel
is detached from the mounted location.
17. The control panel recited in claim 15, further comprising: one
or more computer storage media having stored thereon computer
executable instructions that, when executed, cause the one or more
processors to: send a message to the remote service system upon
determining that the anti-tamper switch indicates the control panel
is detached from the mounted location and determining the sensor
indicates there is no access to power.
18. The control panel recited in claim 15, further comprising: a
primary power supply component and a secondary power supply
component.
19. The control panel recited in claim 18, wherein the secondary
power supply component is configured to be disabled only following
one or more of: removal of the control panel from the mounted
location; or loss of primary power to the control panel.
20. An automation system comprising: the control panel recited in
claim 15; and a plurality of automation components in communication
with the control panel, wherein the plurality of automation
components are in communication with the control panel using a
wireless mesh network.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 61/790,021, titled: "Methods for Monitoring
Removal of an Automation Control Panel, and Systems and Devices
Related Thereto," filed on Mar. 15, 2013.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates to automation systems. More
particularly, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to
monitoring removal of a control panel of an automation system. More
particularly still, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to
detecting when a control panel of an automation system is removed,
and determining the reason for the removal and potentially
recovering the removed equipment.
BACKGROUND
[0003] People are increasingly interested in providing security to
a building. Security in a home setting may be particularly
significant for a home owner or resident who is away from home, who
has small children, or who keeps valuable items at the home. For
such an owner or resident to feel secure, security and privacy may
be provided through various security mechanisms. Example methods
include using door and window locks, the use of video security
cameras, or intrusion detection security systems. Some or all of
these components may be automated, and potentially included as part
of an automation system associated with one or more other
functions.
[0004] In general, an automation system may include multiple
sensors that can detect particular events, and potentially control
different devices. A door or window lock may include a sensor to
detect an unauthorized entry, a window being broken, or the like.
Other sensors may detect a water leak, and potentially shut-off a
water supply in response. Other sensors may detect smoke or carbon
monoxide, control lighting or heating elements, or have other
purposes or capabilities.
[0005] A control panel may provide centralized control of the
automation system and its various components or systems. If a
security-related or other event is detected by the automation
system, information about the event can be relayed to the control
panel. The control panel may take appropriate action, such as
sounding an alarm, deactivating or activating another portion of
the automation system, or displaying information on a display of
the control panel. The control panel may also send a message or
information to an emergency responder, a network monitoring system,
or some other remote system. The control panel may also be used,
either on its own initiative or in response to communication from a
remote location, to cause a sensor or system component to take a
specified action.
[0006] A service provider associated with an automation system may
make a significant investment in each automation system that is
installed and used. Often, the service provider may pay for all or
some of the labor costs associated with installation of an
automation system, as well as some or all of the costs for
equipment (e.g., control panel, window and door sensors, cameras,
HVAC controllers, door locks, water monitors, carbon monoxide
detectors, etc.). The service provider may be paid for continued
use of the service and system as a way to recoup the investment
over time.
SUMMARY
[0007] In accordance with aspects of the present disclosure,
embodiments of methods, systems, software, control panels,
computer-readable media, and the like are described or would be
understood and which relate to security systems and other types of
automation systems. In accordance with some embodiments of the
present disclosure, a security or automation system may be used in
connection with a control panel. If the control panel is removed
from an installed location, or has power cut-off, a remote service
system may be notified. Based on removal and/or loss of power, the
remote service system may determine that there may be a problem
with the control panel, that someone is tampering with the control
panel, or that the control panel is being replaced. A customer
service representative may then contact the customer to determine
the reason for the removal and/or loss of power, and to see what
can be done to remedy any concerns.
[0008] In example systems and methods, a service system that is
remote from the control panel may receive a signal indicating the
control panel has been removed. The service system may attempt to
communicate with the control panel to determine whether power has
also been lost. A response may be received. The response may
indicate some power has been lost. For instance, AC power to the
control panel may be lost; however, backup DC power may have
remained available for the control panel to send the signal. In
other cases, no response may be received. In that case, the service
system may assume all power has been lost. When some or all power
has been lost at the control panel, the remote service center may
initiate a service call to have a representative contact the
customer and determine the cause for the removed control panel
and/or loss of power. A retention representative may make the
contact as it may be determined that the removal and loss of power
is likely due to replacement of the automation system by a
competitive automation system. The retention representative may
make contact within hours, minutes, or even seconds of determining
the control panel has been removed and/or lost power. If the
customer is replacing the automation system, the retention
specialist may attempt to retain the customer. If the signals are
the result of some other action, the retention specialist may make
that determination and provide a remedy, if available.
[0009] In accordance with some embodiments, a control panel that
detects removal from a mounted location may detect a loss of some
or all power prior to sending a signal to a remote service center,
or prior to receiving a communication from the remote service
center. The control panel may therefore be configured to
automatically test both location (e.g., whether mounted to a
mounting plate) and power (e.g., whether AC power is present) even
in the absence of a request from a remote service system.
[0010] Some embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a
control panel usable in testing location and/or power. In an
example embodiment, a control panel may include an anti-tamper
switch or sensor to detect location, and a power sensor to detect
whether AC or other power is present. If the control panel is
removed from a mounting plate, a wall, a bracket, or some other
location or device, the anti-tamper switch may initiate a
communication to a remote service provider. The power sensor may
similarly detect whether AC, DC, or other power has been lost, and
allow such information to be communicated to the remote service
system.
[0011] Embodiments of the present disclosure further relate to
automation systems including components and systems as described
herein. Example automation systems may include a control panel
connected to multiple automation components. Such automation
components may optionally be encrypted or otherwise secured.
Additional embodiments relate to a remote service system. An
example remote service system may include a network operations
center, a monitoring system, or some back-end or other service
provider. The remote service system may include one or more
computing systems to receive electronic communications from a
control panel and potentially to send electronic communication to a
control panel. The remote service system may further be capable of
sending electronic or other communications to customer service
representatives, or computing devices of customer service
representatives, requesting contact be made with a customer in
response to signals received from the control panel of the
customer.
[0012] Other aspects, as well as the features and advantages of
various aspects, of the present disclosure will become apparent to
those of ordinary skill in the art through consideration of the
ensuing description, the accompanying drawings and the appended
claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] In order to describe the manner in which features and other
aspects of the present disclosure can be obtained, a more
particular description of certain subject matter will be rendered
by reference to specific embodiments which are illustrated in the
appended drawings. Understand these drawings depict only typical
embodiments and are not considered to be limiting in scope, nor
drawn to scale for all embodiments. Various embodiments will be
described and explained with additional specificity and detail
through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:
[0014] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of an exemplary
automation system according to one embodiment of the present
disclosure;
[0015] FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of an exemplary control
panel usable in an automation system, according to one embodiment
of the present disclosure;
[0016] FIG. 3A illustrates a cross-sectional view of an exemplary
control panel mounted to a wall or other mounting surface, with
some components of the control panel schematically illustrated,
according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0017] FIGS. 3B-3D illustrate cross-sectional views of the control
panel of FIG. 3A in various stages of removal from the mounting
surface, in accordance with some embodiments of the present
disclosure;
[0018] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary method for monitoring
removal of a control panel and notifying a service system of
removal of the control panel, in accordance with some embodiments
of the present disclosure;
[0019] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary method for monitoring
removal of a control panel, and includes monitoring loss of power,
in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0020] FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary method for monitoring
removal of a control panel and notifying a service system of
removal, according to another embodiment of the present
disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0021] Systems, devices and methods of the present disclosure are
configured for use in connection with residential and/or commercial
buildings, or with other locations which may use an automation
system. Without limiting the scope of the present disclosure, a
home or business may have a security system installed to monitor
use of the building, including entry into the home through a door,
window, or other similar entry point. Sensors at the entry point
may detect when the entry point is open, closed, or broken (e.g., a
window broken) and may respond in different ways in response to a
change in status. For instance, when the security system is armed,
an alarm may sound if a door or window is opened. Optionally,
police or security may be contacted to request they monitor the
building. Of course, other types of components within the
automation system may result in other responses. For instance, if a
leak in a water pipe or sprinkler system is detected, a response
may include shutting off a valve. If no one is detected in a
particular location, lighting may be turned off or dimmed.
[0022] Turning now to FIG. 1, an example distributed system 100 is
illustrated for allowing automating a physical location 101 (e.g.,
a home, office, etc.). The distributed system 100 may generally
represent, or include, an automation system 104a associated with
the location 101. As part of such a distributed system 100, a
control panel 102a may be used. The control panel 102a may, but
need not necessarily, be located at the location 101 being
monitored or controlled. For instance, in FIG. 1, the control panel
102a is located within the location 101 where other components of
the automation system 104a are also located. Certain aspects of the
distributed system 100, or the automation system 104a, may be
administered through the control panel 102a, or the control panel
102a may provide users with information about a status of the
automation system 104a.
[0023] The automation system 104a may generally be referred to
herein as a "security system," but need not be limited to
security-related features. Indeed, the automation system 104a of
the illustrated embodiment may include a number of different
components, any or all of which may be used in connection with the
control panel 102a. In this particular embodiment, for instance,
the automation system 104a includes a communications system 106, an
entertainment system 108, a heating, ventilation, and air
conditioning ("HVAC") system 110, a lighting system 112, a security
system 114, a sprinkler system 116, and a telephone system 118.
Additional or other systems or components may also be included and
monitored or controlled using the control panel 102a.
[0024] Any or all of the systems 106-118 may include sensors,
controllers, valves, switches, or other components, or any
combination thereof. Such components may be controlled or set using
the control panel 102a, may be monitored using the control panel
102a, may communicate with each other or the control panel 102a, or
may have additional or other capabilities. Such components, which
generally monitor or control some aspect of the location 101, may
generally be referred to herein as "automation components" and may
perform a variety of functions. For instance, a set of one or more
automation components may be integrated as part of the security
system 114 associated with the location 101. In some embodiments,
the automation components of the security system 114 may include
sensors that detect intruders (e.g., unauthorized opening of a door
or window, breakage of a window, motion sensors, etc.), sensors
that detect smoke or fire, or some other security-related component
or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the security system
114 may include automation components such as cameras which obtain
still or video images of one or more locations.
[0025] The automation components of the systems 106-118 may include
any number of capabilities and functions. In one embodiment, for
instance, the automation components may be encrypted or secured to
restrict the ability to intercept communications, to use the
automation components with un-approved devices, or for any number
of other reasons. FIG. 1 illustrates an example in which each of
the systems 106-118 may be secured, as indicated by the lock on
each system. In at least one embodiment, some or all automation
components of each system 106-118 may be encrypted, to thereby
encrypt communications, encrypt an address or identification
associated with the automation component, or the like. The control
panel 102a may have suitable public/private keys or other
decryption components to communicate with the encrypted automation
components. If an unauthorized replacement control panel is
provided, however, such a control panel may be unable to
communicate with the corresponding automation components of the
systems 106-118, unable to obtain address/device information, or
unable to understand communications. In some embodiments, such as
where the systems 106-118 operate using a mesh network, encryption
of automation components may allow some or all automation
components to communicate, and each automation component may
optionally include encryption capabilities to encrypt or otherwise
secure its own communications, to decrypt or interpret secured
communications of other automation components or the control panel
102a, or other capabilities, or some combination thereof.
[0026] Automation components of the automation system 104a may take
any number of forms, and are not limited to security components.
For instance, automation components may include entertainment
components such as televisions, recordable media players (e.g., DVD
player, Blu-Ray Player, digital video recorders, VCR, set-top box,
etc.), projectors, speakers, stereos, and the like, any or all of
which may be separate from the control panel 102a. Such
entertainment components may be used, by way of example only, to
turn on a television, radio, optical disk player, or the like,
change a channel or volume of television or radio, or for other
purposes. In the same or other embodiments, automation components
may include thermostats, air conditioners, furnaces, temperature
sensors, and the like, or controllers therefor. Monitored and/or
controllable automation components may further include lighting
system components such as light fixtures, switches, motion sensors,
etc. to monitor the status of lights and/or to turn lights on or
off. Additional components or controllers, or may include security
system components including sensors or detectors (e.g., motion
sensors, magnetic sensors, intrusion sensors, vibration sensors,
infrared sensors, ultrasonic detectors, microwave detectors,
contact sensors, photoelectric beam detectors, smoke detectors,
temperature sensors, carbon monoxide detectors, etc.), video or
still cameras, speakers, microphones, or other components. In
embodiments where the automation system 104a includes a sprinkler
system 116, the automation components may include valves,
actuators, sensors (e.g., flow rate sensors, proximity sensors,
etc.), sprinklers, pumps, and the like. In a similar manner, where
one or more of the automation components is part of a telephone
system 118, the automation components may include telephones,
answering machines, call forwarding components, intercoms, and the
like. Some or all of the automation components of the various
systems 106-118 may also include wireless communication system
components. As an example, the automation components may include
routers, switches, access points, repeaters, bridges, and the
like.
[0027] When a given condition occurs at a monitored automation
component, the control panel 102a may cause other automation
components to respond. Additionally, or alternatively, the control
panel 102a may communicate with components, including those remote
from the physical location. As an example, upon monitoring the
automation components of the systems 106-118, the control panel
102a can detect changes in status, which changes may correspond to
events. For instance, as discussed herein, if the security system
114 includes an automation component at a door, the control panel
102a may detect when the door is open or closed, or when the status
of the door changes. If the security system 114 is armed, opening
of the door may trigger an event indicating a potential intruder
has entered the building. The control panel 102a may be programmed
to respond accordingly. For instance, the security system 114 may
also include an alarm automation component. The control panel 102a
may turn on the alarm of the alarm automation component. Of course,
the control panel 102a may also perform other actions, including
initiating a phone call to the police or security (e.g., using the
telephone system 118 or a radio component built into the control
panel 102a). In the event of another type of event--whether
detected using the security system 114 or another of the systems
106-118--the control panel 102a may facilitate taking of other
actions.
[0028] In at least some embodiments, the control panel 102a may
communicate with one or more third parties. For instance, FIG. 1
illustrates the control panel 102a as being in communication with a
network operations center ("NOC") 120. Optionally, the control
panel 102a may provide the NOC 120 with information about detected
events. In some cases, the NOC 120 may then take actions. By way of
illustration, if the control panel 102a notifies the NOC 120 that a
potential intruder has entered a building, the NOC 120 may respond
by notifying police or security. Consequently, some actions taken
in response to a detected event may be taken by the NOC 120 rather
than by the control panel 102a.
[0029] FIG. 1 also illustrates an example embodiment in which the
control panel 102a is in communication with a monitoring system
121. The monitoring system 121 may include a back end service
system or center through which events of the control panel 102a are
monitored. The monitoring system 121 may potentially identify
events and potential actions to take in response to an event. For
instance, continuing with an example of a security system (e.g.,
security system 114), if an intruder is detected, the monitoring
system 121 may determine when an alarm should sound at the location
101 and communicate with the control panel 102a to request the
alarm.
[0030] In accordance with some embodiments of the present
disclosure, the monitoring system 121 includes, or is associated
with, a service center 123. The service center 123 may include
computing devices and/or personnel who respond to events identified
in any of numerous automation systems 104a-104n. In the example of
a potential intruder at the location 101, the monitoring system 121
may receive some notice of the event and pass information about the
event to the service center 123 (e.g., send an electronic message
including information about the event, where the event is located,
contact information for a user of the automation system 104a,
etc.). The service center 123 may then reach-out to the user of the
automation system 104a to ask if they need assistance, to alert
them of what was detected, to contact emergency personnel, or for
any number of other actions that can be automated or include human
operator assistance. Although the monitoring system 121 is shown as
being separate from the NOC 120, in other embodiments the NOC 120
may include some or all operations of the monitoring system 121.
The service center 123 may also be included as part of the NOC 120,
or separate therefrom, and can also be separate from the monitoring
system 121.
[0031] To allow the NOC 120 and/or monitoring system 121 to be
aware of detected events, and to potentially respond to such
events, the control panel 102a may communicate with the NOC 120 or
monitoring system 121 through a communications network 122. The
communications network 122, which may carry electronic
communications, may include the Internet, local area networks, wide
area networks, virtual private networks ("VPN"), telephone
networks, other communication networks or channels, or any
combination of the forgoing. Thus, it should be understood that the
communications network 122 may operate in any number of different
manners, and can include different components, and may be
distributed so as to include different components at different
locations. For instance, the communications network 122 may include
a wireless communication system such as that provided by a mobile
phone provider. As an example, the control panel 102a may include a
radio component to communicate with or using the communications
network 122 through GSM, CDMA, LTE, HSPA+ or other similar
technologies used by mobile phone systems. In other embodiments,
other wireless systems or even wired communication may be used. Any
combination of the foregoing may also be used. Thus, while a single
communications network 122 is illustrated, such a component may be
illustrative of multiple devices or components. For instance, the
communications network 122 may include multiple networks
interconnected to facilitate communication.
[0032] Regardless of the particular type of protocols and systems
used by the communications network 122, the NOC 120 or monitoring
system 121 may receive information from the control panel 102a
about events detected using automation components. In some
embodiments, the NOC 120 includes human operators who monitor the
events (e.g., where the NOC 120 includes the service center 123).
Based on the type of event detected, the human operator may
initiate some type of response. That response may be implemented
using the control panel 102a by, for instance, sending information
back to the control panel 102a, initiating voice communication
through the control panel 102a, or in other manners. When
implementing actions using the control panel 102a, the actions may
be considered to be "in-band". In other embodiments, the human
operator may initiate an "out-of-band" response. Such a response
may include actions taken without use of the control panel 102a.
For instance, after detecting an intruder, a phone call may be made
to police or security to request that they monitor the location
where the intruder was detected. A phone call could also be placed
to the user or owner of the automation system 104a. As an example,
the NOC 120 may place a call to a mobile device 124, send an email
retrieved at the computing device 126, or otherwise initiate some
communication or action.
[0033] While some responses may be taken or initiated by using a
human operator, other responses may be automated. For instance, if
a signal representative of a potential intruder alert is detected,
the NOC 120 may automatically initiate an action, such as calling
or otherwise communicating with the police, a home owner, or the
like (e.g., text message, e-mail, emergency alert systems, etc.).
The same or similar actions may be taken by a separate monitoring
system in embodiments where the monitoring system 121 is present.
The NOC 120 and/or monitoring system 121 may include computing
devices to initiate such actions. In accordance with at least one
embodiment, the NOC 120 and/or monitoring system 121 includes, or
communicates with, a data store 127. The data store 127 may include
information to allow a determination of what actions to take, what
automation system is affected, who is the user of the particular
automation system, and the like. Each event may, for instance, be
associated with a different in-band and/or out-of-band action that
can be taken, with such different actions being stored in the data
store 127.
[0034] The NOC 120 or monitoring system 121 may optionally be used
for other or additional purposes beyond responding to events
detected by the automation system 104a. For instance, the NOC 120
or monitoring system 121 may be a central monitoring location for
use with multiple control panels 102a-102n. Indeed, monitoring may
be performed for any number of control panels 102a-102n, each of
which may be connected to its own automation system 104a-104n.
Further, the NOC 120 and/or monitoring system 121 may update
software or firmware on the control panels 102a-102n, and to ensure
that the control panels 102a-102n are operating and communicating
properly with automation components of their respective automation
systems 104a-104n and/or with the NOC 120 or monitoring system 121.
As a result of such monitoring, when the automation components of
an automation system 104a-104n detect a certain event (e.g., a
security-related event such as a break-in, a fire, etc.), the
control panel 102a-102n can obtain the information and optionally
takes some prescribed action (e.g., initiating an alarm, performing
a corrective action, notifying an administrator or user, etc.). The
corresponding control panel 102a-102n may also communicate such
information to the NOC 120 through the communications network 122
for review or action. In a similar manner, the monitoring system
121 may provide monitoring functionality for each of the control
panels 102a-102n, as well as for their corresponding automation
systems 104a-104n. The monitoring system 121 may communicate
directly with the control panels 102a-102n through the
communications network 122, or may communicate with the NOC 120
(e.g., directly, or through the communications network 122).
[0035] The distributed system 100 of the present disclosure may be
implemented as a communication system in which the operations of
various systems and components may be monitored through
communication links. As discussed herein, such communication links
may include wired or wireless links, or can include a combination
of wired and wireless links, any or all of which may use different
protocols or networks. Regardless of the particular mode of
communication, the status or operation of devices and components
can be reported to, or controlled using, the corresponding control
panel 102a, NOC 120, monitoring system 121, or even other devices
124, 126. For instance, the devices 124, 126 may interact with the
monitoring system 121 to monitor and/or control aspects of the
automation systems 104a-104n. The NOC 120 and/or monitoring system
121 may, for instance, provide a remote access system. Using the
remote access system, a user may use a browser or application on a
computing device (e.g., computing device 126, mobile device 124) to
interact with the NOC 120 or monitoring system 121, which can in
turn communicate with the control panel 102a to monitor or control
aspects of the automation system 104a. In other embodiments, a
remote access system may be provided by, or in connection with, the
control panel 102a, so that a remote computing device may
communicate directly with the control panel 102a via the
communications network 122.
[0036] The control panel 102a may be equipped to use one or more
different communication protocols in communicating with automation
components of the automation system 104a and with the
communications network 122. Such communication protocols may be
implemented using any combination of one or more of wired or
wireless communication. As an example, automation components of the
automation system 104a may operate using a wireless protocol, or
system that allows a mesh network to be formed. Each automation
component may, for instance, optionally be able to communicate with
some or any other automation component, provided they are in range
of each other. If the automation components use a wireless system
for communicating with the control panel 102a, an automation
component that is in range of the control panel 102a may also send
information to, or receive information from, the control panel
102a. In some embodiments, the automation components may
communicate with each other and the control panel 102a using the
same communication protocol. Although not intended to limit the
scope of the present disclosure, an example communication protocol
for such an embodiment may be a low-power, short-range wireless
communication protocol (e.g., Z-Wave, ZigBee, etc.). In other
embodiments, larger range wireless communication protocols (e.g.,
WiFi, LightwaveRF, etc.) may be used in addition to, or instead of,
the short-range alternatives. Such connections may also allow
two-way communication or may provide only one-way
communication.
[0037] The control panel 102a may also optionally communicate with
the communications network 122 and/or the NOC 120 or devices 124,
126 using the same or other protocols. As an example, if the mobile
device 124 is in sufficiently close physical proximity to the
control panel 102a, a physical connection may be used, or a
suitable wireless communication protocol (e.g., Z-Wave, ZigBee,
Bluetooth, WiFi, etc.) may be used.
[0038] Communication with the communications network 122 may also
be made in any suitable manner, including using wireless or wired
communication, or a combination thereof. For instance, as discussed
herein, an example control panel 102a may communicate with the
communications network 122 operating on a mobile telephone system.
A GSM, CDMA, LTE, HSPA+, or other similar wireless communication
component may therefore be included in the control panel 102a and
the communications network 122 to allow for such communication. In
other embodiments, the communications network 122 may have other
components to allow for alternative or additional types of
communication between the communications network 122 and the
control panel 102a. Moreover, a NOC 120 may communicate with
different control panels 102a-102n of different automation systems
104a-104n using the same or different communication protocols, and
potentially allow such control panels 102a-102n to communicate with
each other.
[0039] Turning now to FIG. 2, an example control panel 202 is
schematically illustrated. It should be appreciated in view of the
disclosure herein that the control panel 202 may be used in the
distributed system of FIG. 1 or in connection with any of a variety
of other systems. Further, the control panel 202 is merely
illustrative, and a control panel of the present disclosure may
have fewer or additional components, or elements other than those
expressly described or illustrated, or may be used in connection
with systems or components other than those of FIG. 1 or the
methods, systems, and devices disclosed herein.
[0040] In FIG. 2, the control panel 202 includes multiple
components interacting together over one or more communication
channels. In this embodiment, for instance, one or more processors
228 may communicate with input/output devices 230, a communication
interface 232, memory 234 and/or a mass storage device 236 via a
communication bus 238. The processors 228 may generally include one
or more processing components, including a central processing unit,
a graphics processing unit, or the like, any of which may be
capable of executing computer-executable instructions received or
stored by the control panel 202.
[0041] The processors 228 may communicate with the communication
interface 232 using the communication bus 238. The communication
interface 232 may receive or send communications via one or more
networks (e.g., communications network 122 of FIG. 1) or otherwise
communicate with other components or devices (e.g., automation
system 104a of FIG. 1). Received communications may be provided
over the communication bus 238 and processed by the processors
228.
[0042] In the particular embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, the
communication interface 232 may include multiple components to
allow communication via one or more different protocols. For
instance, the illustrated embodiment includes a local wireless
interface component 240 for connecting to local components, such as
over a wireless mesh network. As discussed herein, an example of
the local wireless interface component 240 may include radio which
operates using Z-Wave, ZigBee, or other protocols, or some
combination thereof. Such a component may specifically communicate
with security or other automation system components for a residence
or other structure, including one or more sensors, cameras,
controllers, and the like. Further, while a single local wireless
interface component 240 is shown in FIG. 2, such a component may
include multiple elements, including antennas. In some embodiments,
for instance, the local wireless interface component 240 may
include multiple antennas to communicate with multiple automation
components simultaneously, and potentially using any of a variety
of different frequencies or channels.
[0043] In still another example embodiment, an example
communication interface 232 may include a mobile interface
component 242 for communicating over a mobile telephone network. An
example network may include, for instance, GSM, CDMA, LTE, HSPA+,
or other communication typically used by a wireless carrier to
communicate with a mobile device such as a telephone or tablet
computing device. As discussed herein, in one example embodiment,
the mobile interface component 242 may be provided to facilitate
communication between the control panel 202 and a network
operations center (e.g., NOC 120 of FIG. 1) or remote service
provider system (e.g., monitoring system 121 of FIG. 1).
[0044] In still another embodiment, the communication interface 232
may include other components. For instance, an example control
panel 202 may send and/or receive communications over a wireless
protocol such as WiFi (i.e., IEEE 802.11), Bluetooth, or some other
protocol. The local wireless interface component 240 may, for
instance, include WiFi or other similar capabilities. Moreover,
according to some embodiments as disclosed herein, the interface
component 240 may be configured to allow the control panel 202 to
function as a wireless access point.
[0045] According to some embodiments, the control panel 202 may
include one or more input/output devices 230. The input/output
devices 230 may communicate with one or more processors 228 using
the communication bus 238. Any suitable type of input/output device
may be provided. For instance, the control panel 202 may include
buttons, keypads, voice recognition components, or the like through
which input is received from a user. A display 244 may also be
provided and used as an output to display information to a user. In
some embodiments, the display 244 may also act as an input. For
instance, the display 244 may be a touch-sensitive display allowing
a user to touch the display 244 to make a selection, to provide
input through a gesture, or to otherwise provide input. Still other
types of input or output devices may include an anti-tamper switch
246, audio output devices such as a speaker 248, power components
(e.g., an AC power component 250a or battery power source 250b),
ports, sensors, or other elements or some combination thereof. The
input/output devices 230 of a control panel 202 are merely
illustrative. In other embodiments, for instance, trackball, mouse,
biometric reader (e.g., iris scanner, fingerprint reader, etc.),
GPS device, or other component, or some combination of the
foregoing, may be included.
[0046] The control panel 202 may also include memory 234 and mass
storage device 236. In general, the memory 234 may include one or
more of persistent and non-persistent storage, and in the
illustrated embodiment the memory 234 is shown as including random
access memory (RAM) 252 and read only memory (ROM) 254. Other types
of memory or storage may also be included.
[0047] The mass storage device 236 may generally be comprised of
persistent storage in any of a number of different forms. Such
forms may include a hard drive, flash-based storage, optical
storage devices, magnetic storage devices, or other forms which are
either permanently or removably coupled to the control panel 202.
In some embodiments, an operating system 256 defining the general
operating functions of the control panel 202, and which is executed
by the processors 228, may be stored in the mass storage device
236, although all or a portion of the operating system 256 may
alternatively be stored in the memory 234. Other components stored
in the mass storage device 236 may include drivers 258 (e.g., to
facilitate communication between the processors 228 and the
input/output devices 230 and/or components of the communication
interface 232), a browser 260 (e.g., to access or display
information obtained over a network, including mark-up pages and
information), and application modules.
[0048] Application modules may generally include any module,
program, or application that may be used in the operation of the
control panel 202. Examples of application modules may include
programs specifically designed for use with a security and/or
automation system (e.g., automation module 262), or more general
use programs, applications, or modules. Examples of more general
use applications can include word processing applications,
spreadsheet applications, games, calendaring applications, weather
forecast applications, sports scores applications, and other
applications.
[0049] As shown in FIG. 2, in at least one embodiment, an
automation module 262 may include, or operate in connection with,
additional modules or components capable of being used by the
control panel 202 in connection with a security or automation
system. For instance, the automation module 262 may include an
additional communication module 264. The communication module 264
may generally control or monitor how one or more communication
systems of a residence or commercial building operate. As an
example, an intercom system may be provided at an entry to the
building, and the communication module 264 may monitor its use and
potentially be used in passing communications (e.g., using a
speaker or sending communications to a remote device). The
communication module 264 may similarly be configured to facilitate
visual communications (e.g., using one or more cameras and/or
visual display devices). Moreover, the communication module 264 may
determine when to allow communication.
[0050] The automation module 262 may also include an optional
entertainment module 266, HVAC module 268, and lighting module 270.
The entertainment module 266 may generally monitor and/or control
entertainment-related devices and functions of a location. For
instance, the channel or volume of a television may be monitored
and potentially changed using the control panel 202. The HVAC
module 268 may generally monitor or control heating or air
conditioning components. For instance, if the temperature in a
location is higher or lower than desired, the HVAC module 268 may
control a thermostat to obtain a more comfortable temperature.
Similarly, the lighting module 270 may monitor, control or
otherwise interface with lighting components including switches,
lighting fixtures, and the like. In some embodiments, such as where
a light is provided at an entry way, the lighting module 270 may
interface with sensors to detect the presence of a person (e.g., a
motion sensing light). The lighting module 270 may also perform
other functions (e.g., automatically turn on a light in response to
a trigger event).
[0051] The modules 272-276 may provide additional, and potentially
similar functions. For instance, the security module 272 may
interface with security-based automation components, such as
sensors (e.g., motion sensors, magnetic sensors, intrusion sensors,
vibration sensors, infrared sensors, ultrasonic detectors,
microwave detectors, contact sensors, photoelectric beam detectors,
smoke detectors, temperature sensors, carbon monoxide detectors,
etc.). When an event is detected, the security module 272 may
determine how the control panel 202 should respond to the event,
what communications to send to a NOC or other remote location, or
what other actions to take.
[0052] The notifications module 274 may have other functions. For
instance, in response to some events, it may be desirable to
provide information to a remote or other third party. As an
example, a NOC or other remote service provider may be sent
information about an event. The remote system may then respond to
the control panel 202 for some in-band action, or take other
actions out-of-band. Therefore, in some embodiments, the
notifications module 274 may collect information from one or more
other modules or automation components and prepare a report or
notification on events, the status of automation components, or the
like. Such a report may be prepared periodically or in response to
a particular event. In one embodiment, an event may trigger a
report by the notifications module 274, which can then use the
communication interface 232 to send the report to a NOC or other
remote system.
[0053] The notifications module 274 may also be used for other
functions. As discussed herein, a control panel 202 may also
receive information from one or more sources. Such sources may
include automation components, and the notifications module 274 may
collect, store, and potentially report on received information. The
notifications module 274 may also receive information from a NOC or
other similar location or service provider. As an example, a NOC
may send information requesting that the control panel 202 take a
particular action (e.g., turn on an alarm). The notifications
module 274 may receive the information and then distribute the
information to an appropriate module (e.g., security module 272) or
automation component. In still another embodiment, information that
is received may be displayed or otherwise output using the
input/output devices 230.
[0054] The automation module 262 may also include other components
or modules, including a tamper monitoring module 276. In at least
some embodiments, the tamper monitoring module 276 may detect when
a user or other person or entity is attempting to remove, damage,
replace, or otherwise tamper with the control panel 202. For
instance, the tamper monitoring module 276 may monitor the
anti-tamper switch 246 of the input/output devices 230. When the
anti-tamper switch 246 is activated, the tamper monitoring module
276 may determine what action to take, and can potentially interact
with the notifications module 274 to communicate the event to a NOC
or other remote service provider. In some embodiments, the tamper
monitoring module 276 may monitor other components in addition to,
or instead of, the anti-tamper switch 246. For instance, as
discussed herein, a person removing the control panel from a
mounting surface may remove the control panel's 202 access to a
power source. In one embodiment, the tamper monitoring module 276
may therefore also monitor the AC power component 250a, the battery
power source 250b, or some other component usable to provide power
to the control panel 202.
[0055] The foregoing description and the modules shown in FIG. 2
are purely provided to illustrate the variety of different types of
modules, programs, or applications that may be included, and are
not intended to be an exclusive list. In other embodiments, for
instance, additional modules may include a remote access module.
Such a module could, for instance, enable the control panel 202 to
be directly accessed using remote devices (e.g., devices 124, 126
of FIG. 1), and to potentially have communications relayed through
the control panel 202 either to or from the remote devices. In
other embodiments, however, remote access may be enabled through a
web portal, NOC, monitoring system, or other system, and managed by
the remote access module. Thus, a user of a remote device could
potentially set or view communications, door cameras,
entertainment, lighting, security, HVAC, sprinkler, telephone, or
other settings remotely, or even receive or otherwise monitor audio
or video feeds from a remote location.
[0056] The automation module 262 may also include additional or
other modules or components, including modules not shown in FIG. 2.
For instance, the automation module 262 may include a sprinkler
system module (e.g., to verify water flow rates at one or more
locations, turn sprinklers on or off, etc.), a telephone module
(e.g., to interface with a telephone system and potentially run
telephone calls through the control panel, to forward calls, etc.),
an updating module (e.g., to pull or request software updates), and
the like. In other embodiments, modules may be included and which
relate to authentication, settings, preferences,
encryption/decryption, an emergency override, or other modules.
[0057] Turning now to FIGS. 3A-3D, an example control panel 302 is
illustrated in additional detail. The control panel 302 may include
some or all of the components or capabilities of the control panels
described relative to FIGS. 1 and 2, or may include still other or
additional features. The particular control panel 302 is
illustrated to describe one mechanism for preventing or restricting
unwanted tampering with the control panel 302, but other
anti-tampering mechanisms or systems may also be used.
[0058] In the particular embodiment shown in FIG. 3A, a control
panel 302 is shown as being mounted to a mounting surface, such as
the wall 304, using a mounting plate 306. In this particular
embodiment, the mounting plate 306 has a rear surface that engages
or connects to an exterior surface of the wall 304. A frontal
surface of the mounting plate 306 may then connect to a body 303 of
the control panel 302.
[0059] The control panel 302 may include a variety of components or
features, some of which are schematically illustrated in FIG. 3A.
In particular, the control panel 302 may include one or more
interface components, such as a display 348. Using the display 348,
information may be communicated about the control panel 302 and/or
a connected automation system. Other interface features, including
speakers, buttons, ports, and the like are omitted to avoid
unnecessarily obscuring aspects of the disclosure, but may also be
included in the control panel 302.
[0060] The control panel 302 may communicate with local automation
components and/or remote service providers using one or more
antennas 342, 344. In some embodiments, a set of one or more
antennas 342, 344 may communicate with local automation components
within an automated location. Example systems and protocols are
discussed herein, and may include, but are not necessarily limited
to, use of wireless mesh network protocols. The antenna 344 may
also communicate with local automation components. In other
embodiments, however, the antenna 344 includes one or more antennas
to communicate with a remote service provider. The antenna 344 may
also include components or features described herein, including
features and components for communicating using a mobile phone
communications network or other wireless or wired communication
network.
[0061] Additional features of the control panel 302 may include a
controller 328. The controller 328 may include one or more
processors and/or other components for operating the control panel
302. In one embodiment, the controller 328 may include a printed
circuit board or other similar component, along with storage
devices, processors, and the like. Such a controller 328 may
interpret signals received via the antennas 342, 344, input
received via the display 348 or other input/output components, or
to send signals to the same or similar components. A communication
link 338 may be connected to the controller 328 to allow such
communication among the various components of the control panel
302.
[0062] One or more power supplies may be provided to allow the
controller 328, display 348, antennas 342, 344, and other
components to operate. Any of a number of power supplies may be
used. In this particular embodiment, the control panel 302 includes
an AC power supply 350a and a DC power supply 350b.
[0063] More particularly, the AC power supply 350a of the
illustrated embodiment may include a plug or other connector
configured to connect to an AC power source. In this particular
embodiment, the AC power source may include an outlet 308 in the
wall 304, although an outlet 308 may be located in any suitable
location. The DC power supply 350b of the illustrated embodiment
may include a DC voltage source such as a battery or set of
batteries. The DC power supply 350b is shown as embedded within the
body 303 of the control panel 302, although such a power supply may
be removable. In some embodiments, the DC power supply 350b and AC
power supply 350a may each power some components of the control
panel 302. In other embodiments, the one of the DC power supply
350b or AC power supply 350a may provide primary power to all or
some components, while the other may act as a backup power source.
For instance, the AC power supply 350a may be the primary power
source; however, the DC power supply 350b may provide power in the
event the AC power supply 350a is unplugged, damaged, disconnected,
or otherwise fails to provide the necessary power.
[0064] Turning now to FIGS. 3B-3D, embodiments of the control panel
302 are illustrated in additional detail to illustrate a manner in
which the control panel 302 may be removed from the wall 304.
Removal may occur to replace a defective device, replace the device
with an updated model, to replace a component (e.g., DC power
supply 350b), when service is discontinued, or for any number of
other purposes. Potentially anyone may remove the control panel
302; however, in some embodiments the removal may trigger certain
events that are reported to a NOC, monitoring service, a customer
service center, or other remote location. In some embodiments,
monitoring may potentially detect when a customer is replacing the
control panel with a competitive system, even if the customer has
not notified the current service provider of the change.
[0065] As discussed herein, a rear surface of the body 303 of the
control panel 302 may be secured to a frontal surface of the
mounting plate 306. The control panel 302 may optionally include a
sensor 346 that detects when installation is performed. The sensor
346 may, for instance, include a mechanical switch or button that
can be depressed against the frontal surface of the mounting plate
306. A depressed state may indicate the control panel 302 is
installed, while an un-depressed state may indicate the control
panel 302 is detached from the mounting plate 306. While the sensor
346 may include a mechanical switch or sensor, the sensor 346 may
operate in other manners. For instance, the sensor 346 may include
a magnetic switch using magnetic fields to determine when the
control panel 302 is attached or detached relative to the mounting
plate 306. Other types of sensors may include proximity sensors,
inductive sensors, capacitive sensors, photoelectrical sensors, or
any other sensor. A sensor or switch combining any of the foregoing
may also be used.
[0066] The control panel 302 may be secured to the mounting plate
306 in any number of manners. Mechanical fasteners, adhesives,
other components, or any combination thereof, may secure the
control panel 302 in place. For instance, in one embodiment the
mounting plate 306 and/or body 303 of the control panel 302 may
create a frictional or interference fit, or a so-called "snap-fit,"
that temporarily locks the control panel 302 to the mounting plate
306. In at least one embodiment, a mechanical fastener may be
used.
[0067] For instance, FIG. 3B illustrates a screw 378 that has
optionally been removed from the body 303 of the control panel 302.
Once the screw 378 is removed, the control panel 302 may
potentially be removed from the mounting plate 306, as shown in
FIG. 3C. In particular, in this embodiment, the mounting plate 306
may include, or be attached to, a connector 307 that cooperates
with a slot 380 or other feature of the body 303 of the control
panel 302. In FIG. 3B, the connector 307 is shown as being located
within the slot 380. As best seen in FIG. 3A, when the screw 378 is
secured to the control panel 302, the screw 378 may also pass
through, or otherwise connect to, the connector 307, thereby
securing the control panel 302 to the mounting plate 306. As shown
in FIG. 3C, however, once the screw 378 is removed, the connector
307 may be removed from the slot 380 and the control panel 302 can
be removed from the mounting plate 306. Upon such removal, the
sensor 346 may expand from a previously depressed state, thereby
indicating the control panel 302 has been removed. In some
embodiments, and as discussed in more detail herein, the sensor 346
may be monitored (e.g., by controller 328). Upon removal of the
control panel 302, the controller 328 may send a signal (e.g.,
using an antenna) to a remote location, or may take some action
entirely on its own.
[0068] In order to send a signal, or to power the controller 328
and/or sensor 346, the control panel 302 may maintain some type of
power supply available. As shown in FIG. 3B, the AC power supply
350a may be disconnected in some embodiments. Such a disconnection
may occur prior to removal of the screw 378 and/or detachment of
the control panel 302 from the mounting plate 306, although in
other embodiments, the AC power supply 350a may be disconnected
afterwards. If the AC power supply 350a is disconnected prior to
the removal of the control panel 302 from the mounting plate 306,
the DC power supply 350b may continue to supply power to some or
all components. If the AC power supply 350a provides primary power
to the control panel 302, the controller 328 may include, or be
connected to, a sensor that detects when the AC power supply 350a
is no longer providing power in order to make the transition to DC
power. In at least some embodiments, the DC power supply 350b may
provide sufficient voltage to power the sensor 346, controller 328,
and one or more antennas 342, 344. Consequently, even when AC power
is unavailable, the presence of DC power may allow the control
panel 302 to process a signal and send it to a NOC or other remote
location for evaluation.
[0069] According to at least some embodiments, the DC power supply
350b may also be removable or otherwise disconnected from the
control panel 302. In FIG. 3D, for instance, the body 303 of the
control panel 302 may include a removable door 305 that provides
access to the DC power supply 350b. In this particular embodiment,
the removable door 305 may be located on a rear surface of the body
303. In such an embodiment, the control panel 302 may need to be
removed from the mounting plate 306 before the DC power supply 350b
can be removed and/or replaced. By locating the removable door 305
or other mechanism for allowing removal of the DC power supply 350b
in this manner, the DC power supply 350b may be available for use
any time the control panel 302 is removed from the mounting plate
306. More particularly, to access the removable door 305, the
control panel 302 is optionally required to be first removed from
the mounting plate 306, which can then allow the sensor 346 to
detect removal and allow sending of a signal relating thereto
before a user or other entity has a chance to remove the DC power
supply 350b.
[0070] By allowing a signal to be sent before the DC power supply
350b is removed, the control panel 302 may be protected against
various types of actions. For instance, an intruder may attempt to
enter a location and damage or remove the control panel 302 in
order to disable an alarm. However, even if the intruder was to
disconnect the AC power supply 350a and remove the control panel
302, a notification may be transmitted before the intruder may be
able to remove the DC power supply 350b.
[0071] In another aspect, an owner of a location monitored using
the control panel 302 with an automation system may decide to
discontinue automation services. Typically, such an owner may
remove the automation system equipment, including the control panel
302, and dispose of the equipment. If the user removes the control
panel 302, a signal may be sent to a NOC or other location. That
location may then contact the owner to attempt to recover the
control panel 302 and recoup some costs associated with the
automation system.
[0072] In still another embodiment, a user may decide to switch to
an alternative automation system and provider. The user or other
provider may unplug and remove the control panel 302. Upon doing
so, however, the control panel 302 may continue to have power
available through the DC power supply 350b, and detect the removal
of the control panel, and send a notification of the removal to a
NOC or other location. In one embodiment, the NOC or other remote
service provider may contact the customer directly. A customer
service representative may, for instance, be provided with
information about the removal and can immediately call the customer
to inquire about the removed panel. Upon determining the user is
considering switching to an alternative automation system and
provider, the customer service representative may enter in a dialog
intended to retain the customer.
[0073] Yet another aspect of the embodiment in FIGS. 3A-3D may be
the ability to restrict collective removal of the control panel 302
and mounting plate 306 from the wall 304. In particular, FIGS.
3A-3D illustrate a sensor 346 that may detect when the control
panel 302 is removed from the mounting plate 306. In an attempt to
circumvent such a system, a person could potentially attempt to
remove the mounting plate 306 from the wall 304 directly, without
first removing the control panel 302. As shown in FIGS. 3B-3D, the
mounting plate 306 is optionally secured to the wall 304 using one
or more screws 309, although any other suitable mechanical or other
fastener may be used. In at least some embodiments, the screws 309
are secured at a location covered by the control panel 302 (see
FIG. 3B). Only after removing the control panel 302 may a person
potentially access the screws 309 to remove them, and thus remove
the mounting plate 306.
[0074] The various aspects of the embodiment of a control panel 302
in FIGS. 3A-3D are illustrative, and should not be interpreted as
being required in all embodiments. Moreover, while certain features
are described or illustrated in one manner, they may be provided in
other manners as well. For instance, FIGS. 3A-3D illustrate a
removable door 305 on the rear surface of the control panel 302. In
other embodiments, the removable door 305 or other mechanism for
allowing removal of the DC power supply 350b may be located in
other locations. For instance, the removable door 305 may be
located on a front surface or top or bottom surface the control
panel 302. Although not necessary for all embodiments, an
alternative location may, in some embodiments, continue to allow
the DC power supply 350b to be removed only after removal of the
control panel 302 from the mounting plate 306, or after
disconnection of the AC power supply 350a. For instance, the
removable door 305 may include a lock or other feature that is
activated as long as the AC power supply 350a is active. Thus, a
user may be unable to remove the removable door 305 until first
disconnecting the AC power supply 350a. Removal of the control
panel 302 from the mounting plate 306 may also be required to occur
prior to disconnection of the AC power supply 350a. In such an
embodiment, even in the control panel 302 is removed, and the AC
power supply 350a also removed very quickly thereafter, the DC
power supply 350b may continue to provide power for enough time to
allow the sensor 346 to detect removal of the control panel 302
and/or the AC power supply 350a, and to send a signal to a NOC,
central monitoring service, or other location.
[0075] In another embodiment, the control panel 302 and the
mounting plate 306 may be connected in other manners. As discussed
herein, the illustrated embodiment illustrates a connector 307 and
slot 380. A screw 378 may pass through the control panel 302 and
connect to the connector 307 to secure the control panel 302 to the
mounting plate 306. In other embodiments, however, the screw 378
may be entirely omitted and replaced with other components,
including other mechanical fasteners, or interlock features. In
another embodiment, the connector 307 may be located on the control
panel 302 and mate with a corresponding slot or other feature of
the mounting plate 306.
[0076] As discussed herein, embodiments of the present disclosure
relate to detecting removal of a control panel. Upon detecting
removal of the control panel, actions may be taken to recover
equipment, mitigate losses, retain customers, or for other reasons.
The control panel may also be configured to assist or implement the
process.
[0077] Referring now to FIGS. 4-6, some example methods are
described for responding to removal of a control panel from a
mounted location. The methods of FIGS. 4-6 may be implemented using
control panels described herein (e.g., control panels 102a-102n,
202 and 302 of FIGS. 1-3D), as well as by using other systems or
equipment (e.g., NOC 120 or monitoring system 121 of FIG. 1). Each
method is illustrative only, and may include additional or fewer
acts in some embodiments. Accordingly, the methods of FIGS. 4-6 may
include elements which are interchangeable and/or which may be used
in any combination with other steps, acts or methods in which a
control panel is removed, replaced, damaged, installed, or
recovered.
[0078] To allow a better understanding of the methods of FIGS. 4-6,
such methods will be described in connection with the control panel
302 of FIGS. 3A-3D. Such a description merely provides one
embodiment of how methods may be implemented, and is not intended
to limit the methods of FIGS. 4-6 to any particular embodiment or
system.
[0079] With reference to FIG. 4, a method 400 for responding to
removal of a control panel is described and illustrated. For the
method 400 of FIG. 4, a control panel of an automation system may
be mounted on a wall or otherwise secured at a particular location.
The control panel may be monitored and removal of the control panel
may be detected in act 402. In the context of the embodiment of a
control panel 302 shown in FIGS. 3A-3D, detecting removal may
include using a sensor (e.g., sensor 346) that determines when the
control panel 302 is removed from a mounting plate, wall, or other
surface. A mechanical, magnetic, inductive, capacitive,
photoelectrical, proximity, or other sensor, or some combination of
the foregoing, may facilitate such a determination by detecting
removal of the control panel.
[0080] When removal of the control panel is detected in act 402,
the control panel may prepare and send a message or other signal
indicating removal was detected (act 404). In some embodiments,
preparing and sending the message may be accomplished using a
wireless antenna that sends a signal over a mesh network, WiFi
network, mobile network, or other wireless network. In other
embodiments, the signal may be sent in other manners, including
through a wired connection, or through a long-range wireless
network.
[0081] Regardless of how the signal or message is sent, the message
may be directed to a remote location. In at least some embodiments,
the remote location may include a NOC, a monitoring system, or
another remote service provider system. Such a system may include
one or more computing devices, including servers, back-end systems,
and the like. The signal may be conveyed in an electronic form that
is received by the remote service provider in act 406. In receiving
the message, the remote service provider may interpret the message
and determine that the message indicates the control panel was
removed. In response, the remote service provider may send a
notification to a customer service system (act 408). Such a system
may allow a customer service representative or system to contact
the customer (act 410). Upon contacting the customer in act 410,
the service representative may inquire about the removal to
determine why a signal was received indicating the control panel
was removed (act 412).
[0082] The signal may have been received for any number of reasons.
For instance, an anti-tamper switch, sensor, or other component
responsible for detecting removal of the control panel may be
defective, which could result in a false alarm. The user may have
also removed the control panel to replace a defective or depleted
battery, or because the control panel itself stopped performing one
or more functions. In any such case, the customer service
representative or center may determine whether the device or
component is defective (act 416). Optionally, if a component is
defective, a replacement may be provided in act 418. Providing a
replacement may include ordering a replacement to be sent to the
customer, scheduling a service call to see if repair or replacement
is available, or the like.
[0083] If the device or component was not defective, a
determination may also be made as to whether the customer is
discontinuing service (act 420). If the customer is going to stop
using the service altogether, or will be switching to an
alternative service, the customer service representative or system
may take actions to retain the customer (act 422). Such actions may
include offering discounts or upgraded equipment, describing short
fallings of a competitive system, or other actions. If an upgrade
is to be provided, or if unable to retain the customer, the
customer service center may recover equipment from the consumer
(act 424). To recover equipment, a service call may be scheduled to
allow recovery of the control panel. As described herein, some
embodiments contemplate using automation components that are
encrypted or otherwise secured. Such components may be unusable
with a competitor's system, and may thus also be recovered in act
424 in addition to, or instead of, the control panel.
[0084] In some embodiments, detecting removal of the control panel
may occur in isolation to trigger a response from a remote service
provider, although other embodiments may contemplate making other
automatic or automated inquiries prior to potentially requesting a
customer be contacted. FIG. 5, for instance, illustrates an example
method 500 for responding to removal of a control panel by also
attempting to determine whether power remains available to the
control panel. Certain aspects of the method 500 may be similar to
acts or components of the method 400 of FIG. 4, which can therefore
be incorporated into the method 500.
[0085] In FIG. 5, an act 502 may include detecting removal of a
control panel from a mounted location. As noted herein, this may be
done in any number of forms, including by an automated fashion
using an anti-tamper switch, or another component or sensor. In
response, the control panel (that is detected as having been
removed), or another component in the automation system, may
prepare and send a message or signal to indicate removal of the
control panel was detected (act 504). In at least one embodiment,
the message or signal may be sent to a remote system. An example
message may be provided as an electronic communication signal or
message and provided to one or more computing systems as part of a
NOC, monitoring system, or other remote service provider.
Regardless of the particular type of remote service provider, the
message may be received in act 506. Receipt of the message may
include interpreting the message to determine the control panel was
removed.
[0086] After the message is received in act 506, the remote service
provider may attempt to continue communication with the control
panel in act 508. This messaging may take any number of forms. For
instance, in one embodiment, the remote service provider may
request the control panel to provide information on its power
state, including whether or not AC power, DC power, or another
power supply has been cut-off. If, for instance, AC power has been
cut-off, but DC power is still available, the control panel can
receive the message and send a response back in act 510 to indicate
AC power was lost. A ping message may also or alternatively be sent
in act 508 to see if any response can be received from the control
panel.
[0087] In act 512, the method 500 may continue to determine whether
a response was received from the control panel in response to the
request of act 508. If a response was received, the control panel
may be assumed not dead, and has at least some power available.
Consequently, a determination may be made to determine whether the
control panel lost AC power (act 514). If the control panel does
not have AC power, the method 500 may assume the control panel has
been removed for repair, replacement, or due to discontinued use.
Consequently, at act 516, the method may send a notification to a
customer service system to request that the customer be contacted.
The customer service system may then contact the customer to
determine the precise reason why the control panel was removed. In
one example, the customer service system, which may be the same as,
or different than, the remote service provider, may take action to
determine if a device was defective, if there was a false alarm, if
service is being discontinued, if an alternative system is being
installed, or the like. Acts similar to, or potentially including,
acts 410-424 of FIG. 4 may be used by the customer service system
to make such determinations.
[0088] In some embodiments, the remote service provider may limit
contact from some customer service representatives to circumstances
when it is reasonable to assume that disconnection has occurred for
replacement purposes. For instance, if a control panel is removed
but continues to be powered by an AC power source, it may be
assumed that the device is not being replaced. As a result, if act
514 determines power remains available, the method 500 may end
without notifying the customer service system and requesting that
they contact the customer. In some embodiments, the requesting of
power information in acts 508, 510, determining whether a response
is received in act 512, and determining whether AC power is
available to the control panel in act 514 may be repeated one or
more times, and potentially repeatedly over a predetermined or
other delay period. More particularly, as long as AC power remains
available, the method 500 may include continuing to request and
potentially receive information. Upon loss of communication, or
loss of AC power at the control panel, the method may then move to
act 516 of notifying the customer service system. Repetition of
acts 508-514 may also be terminated in other manners. For instance,
if the control panel sends a signal indicating it has been
reconnected, the remote service provider may, but does not
necessarily, terminate the method 500.
[0089] If acts 508-514 continue to repeat over an extended period
of time, the method 500 may also end in act 518, but possibly may
also result in a notification to a customer service system.
Continued AC power, but a detached control panel may not indicate a
replacement system is being installed, but may indicate a
potentially defective component or other problem with the control
panel. Optionally, a customer service system, or set of available
customer service representatives, may contact a user when there is
an assumed defect or other problem, but such a system or
representatives may be different as compared to a representative or
system used for retention when the assumption is that the control
panel is being replaced (e.g., when the control panel is removed
and AC or DC power is cut-off). In other embodiments, the same
customer service system or representatives may be notified, but
provided different information.
[0090] In embodiments where there is a delay before notifying the
customer service system, the length of the delay may vary. As noted
above, the delay may be shortened if it is determined that AC power
is lost, that there is no signal, indicating that the control panel
is potentially being replaced, or if the control panel is
reconnected. In other embodiments, the full delay may be used. That
delay may be up to approximately two hours in some embodiments. In
a more particular embodiment, the status of the control panel may
be monitored over a period up to approximately one hour, or up to
approximately thirty minutes. In still another embodiment, status
of a control panel may be monitored for up to approximately ten
minutes. Of course, in other embodiments, the delay or time period
during which monitoring continues may be longer than approximately
two hours.
[0091] One aspect of the method 500 of FIG. 5 is the ability to
contact a customer quickly in the event of a potential problem, or
at a time when an alternative system is contemplated. Accordingly,
some embodiments of the present disclosure also contemplate the
method 500 being fully performed in potentially less than
approximately thirty minutes, less than approximately fifteen
minutes, or even less than approximately ten minutes. In such
embodiments, a delay before notifying a customer service system may
be shortened (e.g., be less than approximately ten minutes, less
than approximately five minutes, less than approximately two
minutes, etc.). If, for instance, a replacement is being installed,
this may allow the representative to call right at the time the
replacement is installed to potentially retain the customer.
Contacting the customer after a replacement has been installed may
be far less effective for retaining the customer than getting in
touch with the customer before the replacement is complete.
[0092] While the method 500 includes use of a remote service
provider to request information (e.g., information about AC power),
other embodiments contemplate the control panel detecting and
providing information about AC power even absent a request. FIG. 6,
for instance, illustrates a method 600 in which a control panel may
be monitored, and its removal from a mounted location detected (act
602). Optionally, when removal is detected, the control panel 600
may determine whether or not AC power has also been cut-off (act
604). Optionally, the act 604 may be repeated over a period of time
to continuously monitor the AC power supply.
[0093] Upon determining the status of the AC power supply in act
604, the control panel can prepare and send a message or signal to
indicate the control panel has been removed, and whether or not AC
power is still available (act 606). This message may take a number
of forms, and can be an electronic message communicated over a
wired or wireless communication system, or a combination thereof,
as discussed herein. In some embodiments, the message may take the
form of two or more messages that collectively describe the power
and/or removal status of the control panel.
[0094] The messages about removal of the control panel and/or the
status of AC power of the control panel may be received by a remote
service provider in act 608. Such a remove service provider may
include a NOC or monitoring system, either of which may optionally
provide a back-end system for administering an automation system
connected to the control panel. Upon receipt of the message in act
608, the remote service provider may determine whether the control
panel has AC power in act 610. If there is not AC power, which may
lead to an assumption that the control panel is being replaced, the
method may include sending a notification to a customer service
system to allow them to contact the customer and determine what is
happening (act 620). As discussed herein, the customer service
system may take any number of courses of action to determine if the
control panel, or its components, is defective, if the system is
indeed being replaced, if the user is discontinuing service, or the
like.
[0095] If the control panel has not lost AC power, as determined in
act 610, the method 600 may perform other actions prior to
performing act 620. In one embodiment, the method 600 may instead
include the remote service provider attempting to again communicate
with the control panel to determine the power available to the
control panel (act 612). If the control panel has power, it may
respond in act 614. The request in act 612 may be a ping message to
determine if there is power at the control panel, which may be
indicated by a response. The request in act 612 may also be more
detailed, and may request power information (e.g., whether AC power
is available). Consequently, the response in act 614 may include
more detail than a simple response to a ping message.
[0096] When a response is received, method 600 may include the
remote service provider determining whether the control panel has
power (act 616). This may include, in some embodiments, determining
whether the control panel 616 has any power at all, or what type of
power is available. For instance, if no response is received to the
request in act 612, it can be assumed there is no power at all and
the control panel is dead. That may result in sending a
notification to the customer service system in act 620 to request
contact with the customer, and determine if there is a problem with
the system, whether a replacement is being considered, or if
something else is occurring. Similarly, a response is provided in
act 614, but the response indicates AC power has been lost, the
determination in act 616 may also lead to the customer service
system being notified in act 620. If, however, AC power continues
to be available, the method 618 may end. In some embodiments, if AC
power continues at the control panel, the acts 612-616 of the
method 600 may repeat over a period of time. Upon expiration of
that time period, the method 600 may end in act 618. Alternatively,
prolonged periods where AC power is available, but the control
panel indicates it is not secured to the mounted location, may
indicate another problem and a customer service system can be
alerted.
[0097] In view of the above description, it should be appreciated
that systems, control panels, devices, and methods of the present
disclosure may allow for detection of problems with a control panel
and/or detection of a control panel that is being replaced with a
competitive system, or simply discontinued. By monitoring whether
the control panel is mounted, and potentially the status of the
power supplies to the control panel, the systems, devices, and
methods may detect such events and respond. An example response may
include triggering a notification at a customer service center. In
response to the notification, a customer service representative may
call or otherwise contact the customer to determine what is
happening and see why the control panel is showing a loss of power
and/or disconnection from the mounted location. Such a call may be
made manually, or may be auto-dialed for the customer service
representative.
[0098] When the call is made, a problem may be remedied in a timely
manner. For instance, if there is a problem with the system,
replacements components may be ordered or sent and/or a service
call may be scheduled. If the system is being replaced with a
competitor's system, a retention specialist may attempt to retain
the customer. As such retention can potentially occur nearly
immediately following removal of a control panel, and before
installation of a competitive system, the likelihood of retaining a
customer can be significantly increased.
[0099] Embodiments of the present disclosure may comprise or
utilize a special purpose or general-purpose computer including
computer hardware, such as, for example, one or more processors and
system memory in a control panel for an automation system, a server
or computing device of a network operations center or monitoring
system, or in other systems or components. Embodiments within the
scope of the present disclosure also include physical and other
computer-readable media for carrying or storing computer-executable
instructions and/or data structures. Such computer-readable media
can be any available media that can be accessed by a general
purpose or special purpose computer system. Computer-readable media
that store computer-executable instructions are computer storage
media. Computer-readable media that carry computer-executable
instructions are transmission media. Thus, by way of example, and
not limitation, embodiments of the disclosure can comprise at least
two distinctly different kinds of computer-readable media,
including at least computer storage media and/or transmission
media. Computer-readable media that includes computer-executable
instructions may also be referred to as a computer program
product.
[0100] Examples of computer storage media include RAM, ROM, EEPROM,
CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or
other magnetic storage devices, flash-based storage, solid-state
storage, or any other physical, non-transmission medium which can
store desired program code means in the form of computer-executable
instructions or data structures and which can be accessed by a
general purpose or special purpose computer.
[0101] When information is transferred or provided over a
communication network or another communications connection (either
hardwired, wireless, or a combination of hardwired or wireless) to
a computing device, the computing device properly views the
connection as a transmission medium. A "communication network" may
generally be defined as one or more data links that enable the
transport of electronic data between computer systems and/or
modules, engines, and/or other electronic devices, and
transmissions media can include a communication network and/or data
links, carrier waves, wireless signals, and the like, which can
carry desired program or template code means or instructions in the
form of computer-executable instructions or data structures within,
to or from a communication network. Combinations of storage media
and transmission media should also be included within the scope of
computer-readable media.
[0102] Further, upon reaching various computer system components,
program code means in the form of computer-executable instructions
or data structures can be transferred automatically from
transmission media to storage media (or vice versa). For example,
computer-executable instructions or data structures received over a
network or data link can be buffered in RAM within a network
interface module (e.g., a "NIC"), and then eventually transferred
to computer system RAM and/or to less volatile computer storage
media at a computer system. Thus, it should be understood that
computer storage media can be included in computer system
components that also (or even primarily) utilize transmission
media.
[0103] Computer-executable instructions comprise instructions and
data which, when executed at a processor, cause a general purpose
computer, dedicated or special purpose computer (e.g., an
automation system control panel), or special purpose processing
device to perform a certain function or group of functions. The
computer executable instructions may be, for example, binaries,
intermediate format instructions such as assembly language, or even
source code. Although the subject matter has been described in
language specific to structural features and/or methodological
acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the
appended claims is not necessarily limited to the described
features or acts described above, nor performance of the described
acts or steps by the components described above. Rather, the
described features and acts are disclosed as example forms of
implementing the claims.
[0104] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the
embodiments may be practiced in network computing environments with
many types of computer system configurations, including, personal
computers, desktop computers, laptop computers, message processors,
hand-held devices, programmable logic machines, multi-processor
systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics,
network PCs, tablet computing devices, minicomputers, automation
system control panels, network operations centers, mainframe
computers, mobile telephones, PDAs, pagers, routers, switches, and
the like.
[0105] Embodiments may also be practiced in distributed system
environments where local and remote computer systems, which are
linked (either by hardwired data links, wireless data links, or by
a combination of hardwired and wireless data links) through a
network, both perform tasks. In a distributed computing
environment, program modules may be located in both local and
remote memory storage devices.
[0106] Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that
embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced in
special-purpose, dedicated or other computing devices integrated
within or particular to a particular residence, business, company,
government agency, or other entity, and that such devices may
operate using one or more network, wireless, hardwire, or other
connections, or any combination thereof. Examples may include
residential or commercial buildings in connection with security or
other automation systems configured to monitor local conditions
(i.e., within a specific range of the building), remote conditions
(i.e., accessible regardless whether within a particular range), or
some combination thereof.
[0107] Although the foregoing description contains many specifics,
these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the
disclosure or of any of the appended claims, but merely as
providing information pertinent to some specific embodiments that
may fall within the scopes of the disclosure and the appended
claims. Various embodiments are described, some of which
incorporate differing features. Any feature illustrated or
described relative to one embodiment is interchangeable and/or may
be employed in combination with features of any other embodiment
herein. In addition, other embodiments may also be devised which
lie within the scopes of the disclosure and the appended claims.
The scope of the disclosure is, therefore, indicated and limited
only by the appended claims and their legal equivalents. All
additions, deletions and modifications to the disclosure, as
disclosed herein, that fall within the meaning and scopes of the
claims are to be embraced by the claims.
* * * * *