Problem Statement:
The current system requires constant monitoring, which is time-consuming and inefficient. It is difficult for operators to identify the state of each sensor output at a glance, and there is no alert when a monitored value is out of range. Users currently have the ability to change the time frame being shown, but only by manually changing the URL.
Proposed System:
Our team will create a self-aware system that monitors and alerts users to the sudden changes and equipment failures in the system. The system should also prioritize the alerts so that the operator knows the urgency of the event. These alerts will operate on a push concept so the user does not need to constantly watch the display. Users should be able to view the current state of the system as well as past trends over an adjustable time period, as well as compare outputs from separate periods of time.
Information Requirements:
Sensors/Parameters:
Current:
Outside temp
Inside temp
Set temp
Simulated temp
Heater status
Proposed:
Humidity
Light - artificial and ambient
Indicator of window status
Ventilation window open/closed
Window breakages (think home security system)
The value of each parameter
Whether each parameter's value is within range
The range of acceptable values for each parameter
The temporal context/range of the data being viewed
The urgency of an “abnormal” situation
The cause of a sudden change in sensor output
Alert Types:
Urgent
If heater is on, and temperature does not change or goes down (heater is broken)
Sudden temperature changes (broken sensor or glass)
Secondary
“Zero” light (wire is loose)
Temperature is approaching edge of recommended range (small leaks, sensors not calibrated)
Humidity out of range
Use Cases considered:
--> Urgent Issue
User provides temp set point
Set point stays at same level
Accept range (+/-)
Temp drops below the range for a some time
Define “some” time
Notify the user to take action
Reasons for the issue
Heater turned off while it should be on (broken)
Roof or windows open
This could also mean humidity increased
--> Less Urgent Issue
User provides temp set point
Set point stays at same level
Accept range (+/-)
Temp is still in range but not equal to simulated
Heater running for longer duration
Reasons for the issue
Heater not functioning properly
Final System:
Our team updated an interface for monitoring the sensor outputs of a smart greenhouse. The old system consisted of a collection of lines on a single graph, which was difficult for the user to comprehend. Our new design shifts the focus to alerts only, and the user can make the choice to examine the sensor outputs in more detail on deeper pages.
