CN106354105B

CN106354105B - System and method for controlling device and facility resources based on location

Info

Publication number: CN106354105B
Application number: CN201610562906.1A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 爱德华·纽金特; 皮埃尔·德-拜利耶考特; 阿明·卡尔顿巴彻; 安东·米什基尼斯
Original assignee: Arc Informatique
Current assignee: Arc Informatique
Priority date: 2015-07-17
Filing date: 2016-07-15
Publication date: 2021-02-26
Anticipated expiration: 2036-07-15
Also published as: CN106354105A

Abstract

The present invention relates to systems and methods for controlling equipment and facility resources based on location, and provides a method and system for controlling equipment and facility resources via a user's mobile device based on location. A location sensor is used to detect location information of a user within or near a facility. Location information is wirelessly transmitted from a user's mobile device to a server. One or more actions that can be used by the user are determined based on the location information and the user role, where the actions represent actions that can be used in the ICS application. Transmitting an instruction to cause the mobile device to display the determined action in a user interface that enables a user to receive the message and interact with a device or facility resource located in proximity to the user by interacting with one or more actions displayed in the user interface.

Description

System and method for controlling device and facility resources based on location

Technical Field

The present invention relates to systems and methods for controlling equipment and facility resources based on location.

Background

Field workers and other mobile users rely on automation-based Industrial Control Systems (ICS) including data acquisition and monitoring control (SCADA) systems, Building Management Systems (BMS), Building Automation Systems (BAS), Human Machine Interfaces (HMI), or Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) to perform their tasks during indoor or outdoor work and cannot easily access information based on their location and work functions on mobile devices. Conventional solutions rely on remote desktop services and web browsers to provide remote views for emulating host ICS. Using conventional approaches, manipulating and filtering a remote view of a host system for a desired action on a user's mobile device can be difficult and time consuming for the user, given the widely available set of data, commands, actions, and messages on the host system.

Disclosure of Invention

According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for controlling equipment and facility resources via a user's mobile device based on location, the method comprising the steps of: detecting location information of a user within or near a facility using a location sensor; wirelessly communicating the location information from the user's mobile device to a server; determining one or more actions available to the user based on the location information, the one or more actions representing actions available in an industrial control system application, ICS, application; and wirelessly communicating instructions to the mobile device to cause the mobile device to display the one or more actions determined for the user in a user interface that enables the user to receive messages and interact with equipment or facility resources located in proximity to the user by interacting with the one or more actions displayed in the user interface.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for controlling equipment and facility resources via a user's mobile device based on location, the system comprising: a server; a mobile device in wireless communication with the server, wherein the mobile device is configured to detect location information of a user within or near a facility using a location sensor, and transmitting the location information to the server, and the server is configured to determine one or more messages or one or more actions that the user can use based on the location information, and wirelessly transmit instructions to the mobile device to cause the mobile device to display the one or more actions determined for the user in a user interface, the one or more actions represent actions that can be used in an industrial control system application or ICS application, the user interface enables the user to receive messages and to interact with equipment or facility resources located in proximity to the user by interacting with one or more actions displayed in the user interface.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a non-transitory computer readable medium storing instructions executable by a processing device for implementing a method for controlling equipment and facility resources via a user's mobile device based on location, the method comprising the steps of: detecting location information of a user within or near a facility using a location sensor; wirelessly communicating the location information from the user's mobile device to a server; determining one or more actions available to the user based on the location information, the one or more actions representing actions available in an industrial control system application, ICS, application; and wirelessly communicating instructions to the mobile device to cause the mobile device to display the one or more actions determined for the user in a user interface that enables the user to receive messages and interact with equipment or facility resources located in proximity to the user by interacting with the one or more actions displayed in the user interface.

Drawings

Some embodiments are shown by way of example in the drawings and should not be construed as limiting the invention:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a location-based control and automation system implemented in modules according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a flow diagram illustrating an example method for providing control of equipment and facility resources via a user's mobile device based on the user's location, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of an example system that provides a user with control of equipment or facility resources via a mobile device according to an example embodiment;

fig. 4 is a diagram illustrating data flow in a location-based control and automation system according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 5A is a schematic diagram depicting an example system architecture for a location-based automation and control system, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 5B is a diagram illustrating data flow in the example system architecture of FIG. 5A, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 6A is a diagram showing a floor layout in a building for implementing a location-based automation and control system according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 6B is a diagram illustrating a screen of a user's mobile device on the floor depicted in FIG. 6A, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 7A is a diagram showing a floor layout in a building for implementing a location-based automation and control system in accordance with an example embodiment;

FIG. 7B is a diagram illustrating a screen of a user's mobile device on the floor depicted in FIG. 7A, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a layout of floors in a building and a screen of two users' mobile devices on the floors for implementing a location-based automation and control system according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 9 illustrates a network diagram depicting a system to implement a location-based automation and control system according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram of an exemplary computing device that may be used to implement an exemplary embodiment of the location-based automation and control system described herein; and

FIG. 11 is a block diagram of an exemplary mobile device that may be used to implement an exemplary embodiment of the location-based automation and control system described herein.

Detailed Description

Systems, methods, and computer-readable media for providing control of devices and building resources via a user's mobile device based on location will be described in detail herein. An exemplary embodiment includes the steps of: the method comprises detecting location information of a user within a building using a location sensor installed within the building, determining one or more actions available to the user based on the location information, wherein the actions represent actions available in a SCADA application, BMS, or BAS, and wirelessly transmitting (communicating) instructions to a mobile device that cause the mobile device to display a user interface having the determined actions, wherein the user interface enables the user to interact with equipment or building resources located in proximity to the user.

An entity or organization may use a computer-implemented automation-based control system to facilitate control of various equipment, machines, or facility resources. Industrial Control Systems (ICS) are known in the industry as such control systems. In the general category, such automation-based control systems are also known as data acquisition and monitoring control Systems (SCADA), Building Management Systems (BMS), Building Automation Systems (BAS), Human Machine Interfaces (HMI) or Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES). The ICS operates on the encoded signal on the communication channel to provide remote control of the device and to retrieve information about the status of the device that may be displayed on the user equipment. The ICS can include a Human Machine Interface (HMI) to facilitate automatic monitoring and control of devices via a user interface. BMS and BAS are computer-based automation and control systems installed within buildings to assist in controlling and monitoring the mechanical and electrical resources of the building, such as ventilation, lighting, electrical systems, fire alarm systems and security systems, and the like. The MES is a computer-based automation and control system installed within a manufacturing plant to assist in plant equipment and material management to ensure that products are produced according to a plan and to provide manufacturing history and process pedigree information (genealogy) for processing. ICS, including SCADA, BMS, BAS, HMI, and MES, can be referred to herein as a host system.

Using conventional approaches, manipulating and filtering a remote view of a host system for a desired action on a user's mobile device can be difficult and time consuming for the user, given the small available screen size and the widely available set of data, commands, actions, and messages on the host system. Additionally, it is desirable to utilize emerging channels for communicating data, commands, actions, and messages, such as wearable devices and augmented reality displays. The efficiency of the user is significantly improved by a location-based automation and control system having an automatic filter for providing relevant information and controlling the user's mobile device based on the user's rights and the user's physical location.

Smart devices are evolving in the increasingly tightly connected internet of things (IoT) world, or in applications in the field of industrial automation, the industrial internet of things (IIoT). Geotagging (Geo-tag), which is the IoT technology used by Indoor Positioning Systems (IPS), is a key element of the new mobility architecture used by ICS. Geotagging technologies include Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) Beacon (Beacon), Near Field Communication (NFC), QR code (barcode format), and other technologies such as WiFi positioning systems.

These technologies plus the Global Positioning System (GPS) for outdoor positioning are standards on modern mobile devices. Using IPS or GPS, the mobile device is able to know its current location. If the app on the device verifies and maintains the user's identity, the device can immediately inform the user who it is and the user's location in real time. In the distributed environment of many ICSs, there are different servers that provide information and control for each control area. A control area may refer to all devices in a physical area, such as a floor in a modern high-rise building, or may refer to an automation system, such as an elevator or HVAC.

In today's world, mobile workers need to know what assets (assets) are included in each area and how to connect to a particular server in that area to access relevant information and control. Given that there are many different issuers of server software, it is unlikely that a regional server will have information organized in a consistent manner or have a consistent user interface. This complicates the process of mobile workers accessing the information and controls needed to perform their tasks in the use, operation or maintenance of the building or industrial facility.

The location-based automation and control system described herein includes an application (also referred to as an "app") running on a mobile device, a centralized set of application servers, and one or more location sensors or geotags for determining indoor locations or GPS for determining outdoor locations. Location-based automation and control systems rely on the existence of a standard network for connecting the components of the system. The system module generates events linked to actions such as sending updated information messages and control to mobile workers based on the worker's job function and devices in the vicinity of the worker. The inputs to the logic module are worker identity and/or current location/position information. The location-based automation and control system described herein also solves the problem of providing, in real-time, the location of a mobile worker that is not readily known by the ICS application. Tracking using an access control system or RFID provides a close location, however, the system described herein provides indoor tracking of mobile workers using location sensors mounted to various parts of the building in the indoor case or GPS signals in the outdoor case. The location-based automation and control system is provided in the form of an application and can be installed on existing and commercially available mobile devices, including cell phones, tablets, wearable devices, and augmented reality devices.

In an embodiment, the mobile device is typically held by a mobile worker and used to inform a host system (SCADA, BMS, or BAS) of the location of the device, regardless of whether the mobile device is indoors or outdoors. The information along with the worker credentials and user profile provides the host system with a context based on location and task, where the context is then used as input to filter data, commands, and actions available to the mobile worker. These actions include automatically presenting relevant information and controls to a worker on the worker's mobile device. As a result of the continuous evaluation of the location sensor, the mobile device together with the host system automatically maintains information about the current location of the mobile device. This enables the host system to perform predetermined actions and provide the mobile application with information and control in the context of the worker's current location as the worker moves into the facility, campus or industrial complex.

The use of GPS or an Indoor Positioning System (IPS) geotag (e.g., location sensor 940 of fig. 9) enables a location-based automation and control system. These geotags may include, but are not limited to: GPS, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) beacon, Near Field Communication (NFC) device, QR code, barcode, any other commercially available location sensor, or any combination thereof. Here, the geotag may be referred to as a location sensor that enables a host computer (ICS) to determine a location if associated with a physical location within a facility. In addition to specific locations, regional concepts are incorporated into the system, which enables distribution of actions and information based on a hierarchy of rules. The system continuously evaluates information from the location sensors to determine the appropriate filtering of available measures, commands, actions and messages within the context of the job function of the worker using the mobile device. As a result, the system automatically pushes relevant information and control to the worker's device and the current physical location of the worker is recorded by the host computer (ICS).

As a result of continuously receiving updated location information from the mobile device, the host system is able to track mobile workers and mobile assets. This information enables the host system to consciously maintain the real-time location of the mobile worker. The system records and then identifies patterns of movement of the worker. The location and movement of the worker may be visualized on a user interface of the host system. In some embodiments, an automatic notification based on the location of the worker is sent to the worker's mobile device or to safety and emergency personnel.

The system reacts to the movement by generating events. The events include the following: the generation and persistence of mobile profiles, automated environmental adaptation, appropriate security or safety related actions, messages, or other work processes in the vicinity of qualified workers based on problem areas or areas of interest.

The following description is presented to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the computer system structures and related manufacturing methods and provisions to provide control of equipment and facility resources via a user's mobile device based on the user's location. Various modifications to the example embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Furthermore, in the following description, numerous details are set forth for the purpose of explanation. However, it will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and processes are shown in block diagram form in order not to obscure the description of the invention with unnecessary detail. Thus, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein.

In an embodiment, the location sensor is deployed in an area of interest within a building or facility. Additionally, or alternatively, specific locations of interest, such as access points to areas, doors, windows, rooms, mobile assets, etc., are equipped with NFC devices and QR code type position sensors. The system configuration software includes a function for printing a unique identifier for the QR code and a function for storing the unique identifier for the NFC device. The location sensors are stored in a database and associated with their corresponding locations and areas. In addition, locations and areas are associated with actions, events and messages. The association is achieved by both the host system and the mobile application for the location-based automation and control system.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram 100 illustrating a location-based automation and control system in a modular manner, according to an example embodiment. These modules may be implemented in the

devices

920 and 930 shown in fig. 9. These modules may include a location module 110, an action module 120, and a control module 130. These modules may include various circuits, circuitry, and other units of one or more software components, programs, applications, apps, or codebases, or instructions configured to be executed by one or more processors included in

devices

920 and 930. In other implementations, one or more of

modules

110, 120, and 130 may be included in server 950, while other ones of

modules

110, 120, and 130 may be provided in

devices

920 and 930. Although these

modules

110, 120, and 130 are shown in fig. 1 as distinct modules, it should be understood that these

modules

110, 120, and 130 may be implemented as fewer or more modules than shown. It should be appreciated that any of these

modules

110, 120, and 130 may be in communication with one or more components included in a system 900 (fig. 9), such as a database (e.g., database 960), a server (e.g., server 950), a device (e.g., devices 910, 915), a location sensor (e.g., location sensor 940), or an apparatus (e.g.,

apparatus

920, 930, 970), among others.

The location module 110 may be configured to detect location information of a user. The action module 120 may be configured to determine one or more actions available to the user based on the user's location. The control module 130 may be configured to enable control of the devices and building resources.

Fig. 2 illustrates a flow diagram of an example method 200 according to an example embodiment, where the example method 200 is used to provide control of equipment and facility resources via a user's mobile device based on the user's location. The method 200 may be performed using modules in the location based automation and control system 100 shown in fig. 1.

In operation 202, the location module 110 is configured to detect location information of a user within a building using a location sensor installed within the building or, in the case of outdoors, GPS signals from the user's mobile device. In an example embodiment, the location module 110 is configured to continuously scan for location sensors near the user. In some implementations, operation 202 is performed by a mobile device.

In operation 204, the location module 110 is configured to wirelessly transmit location information from the user's mobile device to a server. In an example embodiment, the server is installed with an ICS. The ICS may be a commercially available application or system.

In operation 206, the action module 120 is configured to determine one or more actions available to the user based on the location information. The one or more actions represent actions available to the user within the ICS. In another embodiment, the location module 110 is configured to transmit a user profile to the server and the action module 120 is configured to determine one or more actions based on the user profile. The user profile may include information relating to the identity of the user. The action module 120 is configured to determine one or more actions available to the user by querying a database that stores information relating to the location of the location sensor to determine the one or more actions. The action module 120 may be further configured to store the location information in a database in association with the user. In some implementations, the action module 120 is configured to generate one or more events based on the location information of the user.

In operation 208, the action module 120 is configured to wirelessly transmit to the mobile device to cause the mobile device to display the action for the user determined by operation 206 within the user interface. The user interface enables a user to interact with devices or building resources located in the vicinity of the user. A user may interact with a device or building resource by interacting with actions displayed within the user interface. The action may be displayed as a selectable control button.

In an example embodiment, the location module 110 is configured to detect a change in the user's location information, and the action module 120 is configured to update the action displayed on the mobile device based on the detected change in the location information. In some implementations, the action module 110 is configured to determine relevant information based on the location of the user and cause the mobile device to display the relevant information. For example, the related information may be information related to devices located near the user.

The associated action may be set as a control button within a user interface displayed on the user's mobile device. In some implementations, the device or building resource can be controlled by the user clicking, triggering, or selecting a control button. In other embodiments, the control button may be a slide control. In other embodiments, the control buttons may be radio buttons or check boxes that can be selected by the user. The relevant information may be provided in the form of text, a chart, or any other suitable output form within a user interface displayed on the user's mobile device.

In some implementations, a set of access rights can be associated with a user and a mobile device through a host application. The user profile includes user credentials such as a username and password. The user profile may also include information relating to access rights for the user. For example, a user may log in to an application on the user's mobile device using a username and password, and a set of access permissions may be associated with the user and the mobile device based on the login information. In an example embodiment, to facilitate configuration and maintenance of user privileges, users may be associated with user profiles. The user profile helps identify a group of users who have or need to have the same user privileges.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of an example system 300 for providing control of a device or building resource to a user via a mobile device according to an example embodiment. The system 300 includes a mobile device 305, a plurality of location sensors 310, a Quick Response (QR) code 315, a Near Field Communication (NFC) device 320, a host system 325 (e.g., ICS), a relational database 330, a history database 335, and a control room device 340.

As part of the job functions of users (workers) within a building, the users may use the mobile devices 305 to control or monitor equipment or building resources. Various devices within a building may be used to detect the location of a user. For example, the location sensor 310 may have a predetermined sensing area and may be registered to identify users within a particular space or area within a facility. The location sensor 310 may detect the presence of the mobile device 305. As another example, a user may scan the QR code 315 using their mobile device 305, where the QR code 315 may be configured on a device near the user or near the user. As another example, the location of the user may be detected by NFC device 320 via mobile device 305. The location sensor 310, QR code 315, and NFC device 320 are registered in a database to identify a location, a particular space, area, or equipment.

As described above, mobile device 305 includes an application for monitoring active position sensors in the vicinity of the mobile device and collecting passive geotag data. The background service included in the application continuously scans the environment of the location sensor. The application also includes a user interface for enabling a user to scan a location sensor such as an NFC device and a QR code. If one or more sensors are found, the user's environmental context is sent to the host system. If one or more events are configured for a given context, these events are triggered within the host system. If an action is configured for an event triggered by a given context, a notification is sent to the mobile device along with appropriate information and controls. If one or more messages are associated with a given context, the messages are presented to the user. The message may include text, a chart, or both, and may be displayed on the user's mobile device via the user interface. In some implementations, the message can be an email message or notification provided on the user's mobile device. The message may provide information about the context (user's location, user's job function, user's profile, etc.) for the user.

Location information or user profile information for the user/mobile device 305 is sent from the mobile device 305 to the host system 325 via a wireless, WiFi, or mobile network connection. The host system 325 may be an ICS configured for a particular facility and the devices and resources of that facility. The host system 325 may be implemented in connection with the server 950 described in connection with fig. 9. Host system 325 queries relational database 330 to determine the information and actions available to user/mobile device 305 based on the location or user profile information received from mobile device 305. The host system 325 includes logic to process the user's location information and provide the user with relevant actions and information. The host system also maintains a relational database 330 using actions, locations, and events.

After determining the information and actions available to the user, the host system 325 sends data related to the available information and actions to the mobile device 305 so that the user can control and monitor the equipment or building resources in its vicinity. The mobile device 305 may include an application for implementing the location-based automation and control system described herein, where the application generates a user interface for displaying information and control buttons based on available information and available actions determined by the host system 325.

The location information and user profile information are stored or archived in a historical database 335 to maintain a record of user movement within the building. The host system 325 also sends the user's location and user profile information to the control room device 340. The control room device 340 may also display a user interface of the host system 325 to facilitate control and monitoring of any equipment or building resources according to the control room.

FIG. 4 is a diagram 400 illustrating data flow of a location-based automation and control system according to an example embodiment. The system associates actions and events with a location sensor, or a location indicated by a location sensor, or an area specified by a plurality of location sensors. These associations are configured using only simple and flexible grammatical expressions and vocabularies. Thus, the system provides a high level of scalability. The complexity and effort of system debugging is minimized while achieving a high degree of scalability.

Data is sent between the user's mobile device 305 and the host system 325 as described in connection with fig. 3. The mobile device 305 sends the environmental context data 410 to the host system 325. The environmental context data 410 may represent the location and user profiles of users within a building. In some implementations, the location sensor can provide images or video, such as from an augmented reality camera or the like, to determine the environmental context data 410. Host system 325 communicates with relational database 330 to determine information and actions available to the user based on the user's location and user profile. Host system 325 sends motion data 425 to mobile device 305. The action data 425 may include information and actions available to the user based on the user's location and user profile. In some implementations, the action data 425 may be forwarded to an augmented reality display or other device. The host system 325 sends event data 430 to the control room devices. Event data 430 may include messages, notifications, user interface outputs, alarms, control commands of the device to adjust the set point of the temperature, and security levels, among others.

FIG. 5A is a schematic diagram depicting an example system architecture 500 for a location-based automation and control system according to an example embodiment. Fig. 5B is a diagram illustrating data flow in the example system architecture of fig. 5A, according to an example embodiment. As described above, the functionality of the location-based automation and control system is set up by an application on the mobile device. The application 505 sends the environmental context data 510 to the host system 515. The host system 515 includes a decision maker module 520 having a predicate solver module 525 and an action selector 535. The predicate solver module 525 sends the user location data 530 to the action selector 535. Action selector 535 queries database 540 to determine the actions available to the user based on the user's location and identity. The action selector 535 sends the action data 545 to the application 505.

The user's environmental context 510 may include both types of data, location data and user data. The user data is an access token that enables authentication and authorization and generally represents the identity of the user reporting the data. The location data is data that makes the location of the user known. Location data is made available by sending and evaluating GPS coordinates (outdoors) given by the mobile device that location-based control app 505 (if any) is running, and a list of

nearby geotags

310, 315, and 320. Additionally, the location data also includes distances to the beacon 310 that exhibit a geotag type, such that the exact coordinates of the user are determined, or the tags are removed from the background if the distance of the tags to the worker is outside of a meaningful range.

Associating location data with geographic location 566 is part of predicate solution 564 shown in FIG. 5B. The geographic location 566 is hierarchically structured, and the geographic location 566 may contain any number of

geographic markers

310, 315, and 320 at various levels. The geographic location may also be specified by a geometric area specified by GPS coordinates or any other custom coordinate system. Given location data, the current user context 562 may be associated with one or more geographic locations 564. Generic actions 570 are templates that can be specified as actions available to the user in any number of locations. Instead of specifying actions for "controlling lighting" in each room of the building, a single general action 570 may be specified for this purpose. The association between the geographic location 566 and the generic action 570 is made by matching criteria. These criteria include matching and filtering characteristics of location and action. These criteria are used to generate a query 568 against relational database 330, thereby resulting in a list of generic actions 570. The resulting characteristics of the generic action 570 are replaced by the parameters 572 obtained using the given geographic location 566 using the results of the database query 568. The result of this algorithm is a set of customized actions 574 sent back to location-based control app 505 and presented to the user.

In the event that an update of the location or environmental context of the mobile device is detected, one or more new actions are made available to the user on the user's mobile device. These actions may include, but are not limited to: a list showing measured values including details such as quality of data; showing a trend of one or more values; showing log and historical data; displaying a message associated with a location; initializing one or more commands for the host system; defining or changing one or more supervisory control settings locations; showing a list of alerts; defining or changing one or more alarm thresholds; notify of receipt or disguise of the alert; displaying a symbol of a visual rendition of an asset (asset) containing an environmental context (the symbol may display a measurement or status information maintained as a real-time value or real-time data); loading a scheme; displaying a schedule of events; navigating to a web page or other system resource; and displaying the file. As used herein, an alarm may be generated in the event that certain criteria are met or an event is triggered requiring the attention of a person.

In some cases, updates in the location or environmental context of the mobile device generate new events. In an example embodiment, the event is automatically executed in the host system. Events may include, but are not limited to: updating and keeping the position of the user; initiating an alarm; sending an email or SMS; updating the number of users in the specific area; and adaptation of environmental parameters in specific areas. In some embodiments, there may be more than one predicate solver 564, and in example embodiments, the predicate solvers work together to exchange information so that the overall system benefits from, for example, sending alarms to safety devices, etc., while notifying workers of the hazard. The adaptation of the environmental parameters in a particular area may include actions such as: (i) turning off the lights of the office while the office is idle, (ii) adjusting HVAC settings based on the number of people in the room, (iii) adjusting security levels based on the identity of individuals within the area, or (iv) initiating a security alert if the number of people within the area exceeds a threshold. In general, the present invention is enabled to automatically generate events according to business rules based on the location of the user.

FIG. 6A is a diagram 600 illustrating a floor layout within a building for implementing a location-based automation and control system according to an example embodiment. Fig. 6B is a diagram illustrating a display 620 of a user's mobile device on the floor depicted in fig. 6A according to an example embodiment. As explained herein, a location-based automation and control system provides control of devices and building resources based on user location within the building. As shown in fig. 6A, user 615 is located near a stairwell on floor 605. A geotagged beacon 610 is mounted on the floor 605. The user 615 is not within range for detecting the geotag beacon 610 and does not register the user's current location for any information or control to access the device or building resource. Thus, as shown by display 620 of the mobile device of user 615, there are no actions available to the user via the user interface of the application.

FIG. 7A is a diagram 700 illustrating a floor layout within a building for implementing a location-based automation and control system according to an example embodiment. Fig. 7B is a diagram illustrating a display screen 720 of a user's mobile device on the floor depicted in fig. 7A, according to an example embodiment. As shown in fig. 7A, user 715 is currently within detection range of geotag beacon 710 (as compared to user 615 in fig. 6A). Based on the location information (and in some embodiments, user profile information), the location-based automation and control system provides the user 715 with relevant actions and information, as shown on the display screen 720 of the mobile device of the user 715. In connection with FIGS. 1-5, the actions available to user 715 are determined as described above. As shown in fig. 7B, based on the user's location within floor 1 of building a, user 715 has the following actions available to it: and switching on and off the lamp. Based on the user's proximity to room 105 on floor 1 of building a, user 715 has the authority to: switching lights and controlling the A/C.

Fig. 8 is a diagram 800 illustrating a floor layout within a building for implementing a location-based automation and control system and displays of mobile devices of two users on a floor according to an example embodiment. As shown in fig. 8,

users

810 and 820 are each located at different locations on floor 805. The display of the user 810 carrying the mobile device is shown as display 815. The display of a user 820 carrying a mobile device is shown as display 825. User 810 is not within detection range of the geotag beacon, while user 820 is within detection range of the geotag beacon 830. As explained herein, the location-based automation and control system determines the information and actions that a user may access based on the user's location (and in some embodiments, based on a user profile). Thus, as shown on display 815, user 810 has no accessible actions and, as shown on display 825, user 820 may access information and actions related to devices located near the geotag beacon 830.

In this manner, the systems and methods described herein provide for location-based control of equipment and building resources via a user's mobile device. Position information of a user within a building is detected using a position sensor installed within the building. The location information is wirelessly transmitted from the user's mobile device to a server. One or more actions determined as available to the user are determined based on the location information, wherein the actions represent actions available in the ICS application. Transmitting instructions to cause the mobile device to display the determined actions within a user interface, wherein the user interface enables a user to interact with a device or building resource located in proximity to the user by interacting with one or more actions displayed in the user interface. The location-based automation and control system preferably provides an intelligent device that is scalable, easy to use, maintainable, and integrated.

A location-based automation and control system may be used for a number of scenarios. For example, the system may be used while maintaining the environment. A service engineer may monitor assets (equipment or building resources) that are suspected of or have failed. An asset may be uniquely identified by a location sensor mounted to the asset or used to identify the location at which the asset is located. In this example, where the mobile device user is near an asset, the mobile device application may present the following relevant actions to the user: monitoring real-time data; monitoring historical data; displaying the trend data; accessing a user guide for an asset; the ability to place a component in a maintenance mode; accessing an alert list for the component; and advise of the receipt of the alert.

As another example, a location-based automation and control system may be used in a diagnostic environment. In the event of a walk around to one or more facilities, a mobile device user is notified about a failure event in the user's area of responsibility. This responsible area is in the context of both the physical area (vicinity, area, entire facility, etc.) and the user's role, which may be configured in the host system.

As another example, a location-based automation and control system may be used in a commissioning environment. Debugging a device used by a host system may be a lengthy process. Typically, one worker at a central host system uses a radio to communicate with a mobile worker who can directly confirm the status of the device. With the location-based automation and control system described herein, only one worker is required to debug the device used by the host system. The mobile worker is provided with control and information for the device as it approaches the device.

Further, as another example, a location-based automation and control system may be used for access control. Knowledge of the identity and current location of the system's workers enables the construction of an access control system. A company member or building visitor needs to access the area. The request is provided to the host system based on a location sensor in proximity to the worker that is previously associated with the visit location. The alert configuration causes an alert to be initiated in the event that an individual enters or leaves an area (intersecting a virtual fence). The system supports the concept of zone-based user privileges. The credentials of the mobile workers allow changes depending on the current space or area and system state or other environmental factors. The system can verify the credentials and if appropriate access rights are granted to the worker, change the worker credentials, thereby changing the information and controls set on the mobile device, and for the building management system, issue a warning notification of security or safety while invoking an action to apply the interlocking measures.

As another example, a location-based automation and control system may be used in a secure environment. The system provides a platform for building the components of the life safety system. The location information is evaluated and actions are generated to notify the mobile workers of the emergency condition and to distribute customized information for providing an optimal evacuation route according to the worker's current location. The host system can monitor any workers remaining on site or alert workers moving in the wrong direction.

As another example, a location-based automation and control system may be used to track the location of the worker. By monitoring the location of the worker, traffic analysis may be visually displayed on a 2D or 3D map in real time. The actions of the system as a result of tracking the worker's location may be the following: initiating a security alert; adjusting local environmental controls such as temperature, humidity, ventilation or a/C, or providing energy balance based on an assessment of cumulative load.

In another example, assets such as building equipment may be tracked using a location-based automation and control system. A location sensor associated with the asset is registered as part of a location-based automation and control system. The relationship between the location of the asset location sensors enables the system to track moving assets, even assets inside a building or facility, as compared to other location sensors associated with fixed areas and spaces. As an example of the previous description, the host system may react to the relocation of the mobile asset by alerting, visualizing, or recording information.

In another example, the presence of two work teams simultaneously in the same area may cause mutual interference. This interference may disrupt the work process or have a negative impact on worker safety. The location-based automation and control system addresses the interference with an alternate work process by alerting workers to the interference situation and having teams communicate with each other to help workers who are not aware of the location to avoid the interference.

Various use cases are made possible because the system builds a link between legacy host systems (ICS) and IPS technologies to provide distance-based services to mobile device users. Existing IPS applications using indoor positioning, indoor navigation, and micro-geo-location products focus on marketing, retail data, and public relations applications. The limited number of IPS applications available to industrial automation (i.e., ICS) does not provide automated dynamic control and environmental context to mobile workers.

The system described herein has the advantage over the prior art that it facilitates commissioning of indoor positioning systems by utilizing a generic approach. The system also takes an innovative use of geofencing against indoor context. The system also makes explicit use of the different properties of the position sensors in a diverse set-up. The bluetooth LE beacon does not require proactive actions by the mobile device user. The NFC device and QR code require user interaction and are used for asset identifiers in all basic use cases. In the case of combining the two different methods described above, the following additional benefits arise: the NFC device and QR code may serve as a verifier for integrity/plausibility checks and as an identifier for tracking mobile assets, while in case the certificate is carried for authorization marking purposes, the bluetooth LE beacon may be given to the mobile worker as a certificate of automation author.

The system also contains other functional points that are not present in conventional solutions. The use of a moving beacon as an identity verifier is innovative and the system further comprises means to diagnose missing, removed, malfunctioning or invalid position sensors using exploratory means. Additionally, the system also provides hands-free operation capabilities including the use of wearable mobile devices and augmented reality devices.

FIG. 9 illustrates a network diagram depicting a system 900, wherein the system 900 is utilized to implement a location-based automation and control system in accordance with an example embodiment. System 900 may include a network 905, a plurality of devices (e.g., devices 910, 915), a plurality of apparatuses (e.g., apparatus 920, apparatus 930, apparatus 970), a location sensor 940, a server 950, and a database 960.

Devices

910 and 915,

apparatuses

920, 930, and 970, location sensor 940, server 950, and database 960 are each in communication with network 905.

In an example embodiment, one or more portions of network 905 may be a point-to-point (ad hoc) network, an intranet, an extranet, a Virtual Private Network (VPN), a Local Area Network (LAN), a wireless LAN (wlan), a Wide Area Network (WAN), a Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN), a Metropolitan Area Network (MAN), a portion of the internet, a portion of the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), a cellular telephone network, a wireless network, a WiFi network, a WiMax network, and other types of networks, or a combination of two or more such networks. In such embodiments, communications may be ensured by TLS encryption or similar security measures.

Devices

910 and 915 may also include building resources.

Devices

910 and 915 may include, but are not limited to: heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, electronic systems, ductwork, blind control systems, lighting systems, elevators and escalators, fire detection and alarm systems, access control systems, security control systems, and Public Address (PA) systems, among others.

In some embodiments,

devices

920 and 930 may include, but are not limited to: cellular or mobile phones, smart phones, tablets, ultra-notebooks, netbooks, laptops, handheld devices, wireless devices, portable appliances, wearable computers, smart watches, smart vision systems, Portable Digital Assistants (PDAs), multi-processor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, and mini-computers, and the like. Users in the field or building use the

devices

920 and 930 to control or monitor the devices or building resources based on the user's location or proximity of the devices and building resources.

In some embodiments, means 970 may include, but is not limited to: a workstation, a Personal Computer (PC), a general purpose computer, an internet appliance, a handheld device, a wireless device, a portable device, a wearable computer, a cellular or mobile phone, a Portable Digital Assistant (PDA), a smartphone, a tablet, an ultra-notebook, a netbook, a notebook, a desktop, a multi-processor system, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, a gaming console, a digital video converter box, a network PC, a mini-computer, an augmented reality headset, and so forth. The device 970 may be located within a control room within a facility or may be located remotely, e.g., as a cloud service, and may provide access to ICS applications.

Devices

920, 930, and 970 may include one or more of the components described in connection with fig. 10.

Devices

920, 930, and 970 may each be connected to network 905 via a wired or wireless network.

Devices

920 and 930 may each include, but are not limited to, one or more applications such as: web browser applications, GPS applications, network connectivity applications, and location-based automation and control applications (based on the location-based automation and control system described herein), among others. The devices 970 may include, but are not limited to, one or more applications such as: web browser, SCADA system, BMS application, BAS application, and the like. In some embodiments, device 970 does not include a location-based automation and control application (based on the location-based automation and control system described herein).

In an example embodiment, the

devices

920 and 930 may perform all of the functions described herein. In other embodiments, a location-based automation and control system may be included on

devices

920 and 930, and server 950 performs the functions described herein. Further, in another embodiment, the

devices

920 and 930 may perform some of these functions, and the server 950 performs other functions described herein.

Database 960 and server 950 are each connected to network 905 via a wired network. Optionally, one or more of database 960 and server 950 may be connected to network 905 via a wireless network. Although not shown, the server 950 may be (directly) connected to the database 960. The server 950 includes one or more computers or processors configured to communicate with the

devices

920, 930, and 970 via the network 905. Server 950 has installed therein one or more applications or web sites accessed by

devices

920, 930, and 970 and/or facilitates access to the contents of database 960. Database 960 includes one or more storage devices for storing data and/or instructions (or code) used by server 950 and/or

devices

920, 930, and 970. Database 960 and/or server 950 may be located in one or more different locations geographically dispersed or different from

devices

920, 930, and 970. Alternatively, database 960 may be included within server 950. The server 950 may be installed with one or more components of an ICS, wherein the system facilitates control of various device and facility resources, as described above.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram of an exemplary computing device 1000 that may be used to implement an exemplary embodiment of the location-based automation and control system described herein. Computing device 1000 includes one or more non-transitory computer-readable media for storing one or more computer-executable instructions or software for implementing exemplary embodiments. The non-transitory computer readable medium may include, but is not limited to: one or more types of hardware memory, and non-transitory tangible media (e.g., one or more magnetic storage disks, one or more optical disks, and one or more flash drives), among others. For example, the memory 1006 included in the computing device 1000 may store computer-readable and computer-executable instructions or software for implementing exemplary embodiments of the location-based automation and control system 100. The computing device 1000 also includes a configurable and/or programmable processor 1002 and an associated core 1004, and optionally, one or more additional configurable and/or programmable processors 1002 'and associated cores 1004' (e.g., where the computer system has multiple processors/cores) for executing computer-readable and computer-executable instructions or software stored in the memory 1006, as well as other programs for controlling system hardware. Processor 1002 and processor 1002 'may each be a single core processor or a multiple core (1004 and 1004') processor.

Virtualization may be employed in the computing device 1000 to allow for dynamic sharing of infrastructure and resources in the computing device. The virtual machine 1014 may be configured to handle processes running on multiple processors such that the processes appear to use only one computing resource rather than multiple computing resources. Multiple virtual machines may also be used with one processor.

The memory 1006 may include computer system memory or random access memory such as DRAM, SRAM, EDORAM, etc., and the memory 1006 may also include other types and combinations of memory.

A user may interact with the computing device 1000 through a visual display device 1018, such as a computer monitor, wherein the visual display device 1018 may display one or more graphical user interfaces 1022 that may be arranged corresponding to the exemplary embodiments. Computing device 1000 may include other I/O devices for receiving input from a user, such as a keyboard or any suitable multi-touch interface 1008, a pointing device 1010 (e.g., a mouse), a microphone 1028, and/or a camera 1032 (e.g., a camera or scanner). A multi-touch interface 1008 (e.g., keyboard, keypad, scanner, touch screen, etc.) and a pointing device 1010 (e.g., mouse, stylus, etc.) may be coupled to a visual display device 1018. Computing device 1000 may include other suitable conventional I/O peripherals.

The computing device 1000 may also include one or more storage devices 1024 for storing data and computer-readable instructions and/or software for implementing the exemplary embodiment of the location-based automation and control system 100 described herein, where the storage device 1024 is such as a hard drive, CD-ROM, or other computer-readable medium. Exemplary storage 1024 may also store one or more databases for storing any suitable information needed to implement the exemplary embodiments. For example, exemplary storage 1024 may store one or more databases 1026 for storing information such as location information for location sensors, user profiles, user access rights, user credentials, one or more actions available to a user, and/or any other information used by embodiments of system 100. The database may be manually or automatically updated at any suitable time to add, delete, and/or update one or more items in the database.

Computing device 1000 may include a network interface 1012 configured to connect via one or more network devices 1020 to one or more networks, such as a Local Area Network (LAN), a Wide Area Network (WAN), or the internet over various connections including, but not limited to: standard telephone lines, LAN or WAN links (e.g., 802.11, T1, T3, 56kb, and x.25), broadband connections (e.g., ISDN, frame relay, and ATM), wireless connections, Controller Area Network (CAN), or a specific combination of any or all of the above. In a typical implementation, the computing device 1000 may include one or more antennas 1030 to facilitate the computing device 1000 in wirelessly connecting with a network (e.g., via a network interface). The network interface 1012 may include a built-in network adapter, network interface card, PCMCIA network card, card bus network adapter, wireless network adapter, USB network adapter, modem, or any other device suitable for connecting the computing device 1000 to any type of network capable of communication and performing the operations described herein. Moreover, the computing device 1000 may be any computer system, such as a workstation, desktop computer, server, laptop, handheld computer, tablet computer (e.g., iPad)^TMTablet), mobile computing or communication device (e.g., iPhone)^TMCommunication devices), point-of-sale terminals, corporate internal devices, or other forms of computing and telecommunication devices capable of communication and having sufficient processing and memory capabilities to perform the operations described herein.

Computing device 1000 may run any operating system 1016, such as any version

To doFor any version of Macintosh computer, with different releases of the operating systems Unix and Linux

Any embedded operating system, any real-time operating system, any open source operating system, any special purpose operating system, or any other operating system capable of running on a computing device and performing the operations described herein. In typical embodiments, the operating system 1016 may be run in native mode or emulation mode. In typical implementations, operating system 1016 may be run on one or more cloud machine instances.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram of an exemplary mobile device 1100 that may be used to implement the location-based automation and control system described herein. The mobile device 1100 may include a processor 1110. Processor 1110 may be any of a number of different types of commercially available processors suitable for mobile devices (e.g., NVIDIA system-on-a-chip (SoC) multi-core processors such as Tegra K-1, Xscale architecture microprocessors, peripheral component interconnect (peripheral component interconnect) and peripheral component interconnect (peripheral component interconnect) with Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) devices,

Core^TMA processor,

Atom^TMA processor,

A processor,

A processor,

A Snapdagon processor,

An architectural processor, a microprocessor without internal interlocked pipeline stages (MIPS) architectural microprocessor,

A series system on chip (SoCs) processor, or other type of processor). Memory 1120, such as Random Access Memory (RAM), flash memory, or other types of memory, is accessible to the processor 1110. The memory 1120 is adapted to store an Operating System (OS)1130 and application programs 1140 such as one or more components of the location-based automation and control system described herein, a Web browser application program, and other application programs. The processor 1110 may be coupled directly or via appropriate intermediate hardware with a display 1150 and one or more input/output (I/O) devices 1160, such as a keyboard, touch panel sensor, microphone, and speaker. Processor 1110 may also be coupled to a transceiver 1170 that is connected to an antenna 1190. The transceiver 1170 may be configured to transmit and receive cellular network signals, wireless data signals, or other types of signals via the antenna 1190 depending on the nature of the mobile device 1100. In this way, a connection to the communication network 1005 can be established. In addition, the mobile device 1100 may also include a GPS1180 that may also receive and transmit GPS signals using an antenna 1190. GPS1180 may be used to determine location information for a user in situations where the user is outdoors.

In describing exemplary embodiments, specific terminology is employed for the sake of clarity. For purposes of explanation, specific items are intended to include at least all technical and functional equivalents that operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar purpose. In addition, in some instances, particular exemplary embodiments include a plurality of system elements, device components, or method steps, which may be replaced with a single element, component, or step. Also, a single element, component or step may be substituted for a plurality of elements, components or steps serving the same purpose. Further, where exemplary embodiments are shown and described with reference to specific embodiments, those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that: various substitutions and changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the scope of the invention. Moreover, other embodiments, features, and advantages are also within the scope of the invention.

The exemplary flow charts provided herein are for illustrative purposes and are not limiting examples of methods. One of ordinary skill in the art will know that: an exemplary method may include more or fewer steps than those shown in an exemplary flowchart, and the steps in an exemplary flowchart may be performed in a different order than shown in the schematic flowchart.

Related citations

This application claims priority to U.S. patent application No. 62/193910 filed on 7/17/2015, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. This application also relates to U.S. patent application 62/215576 filed on 8/9/2015, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Claims

1. A method for controlling equipment and utility resources via a user's mobile device based on location, the method comprising the steps of:

detecting location information of a user within or near a facility using a location sensor;

wirelessly communicating the location information from the user's mobile device to a server;

determining one or more actions available to the user based on the location information, the one or more actions representing actions available in an industrial control system application, ICS, application; and

wirelessly transmitting instructions to the mobile device to cause the mobile device to display one or more actions determined for the user in a user interface that enables the user to receive messages and interact with equipment or facility resources located in proximity to the user by interacting with the one or more actions displayed in the user interface,

wherein the location sensor comprises a Near Field Communication (NFC) device and/or a barcode at the facility and a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) beacon at the mobile device.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the location information is detected using a location sensor installed within the facility while the user is indoors.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the location information is detected using GPS signals from the mobile device if the user is outdoors.

4. The method of claim 1, further comprising:

continuously scanning position sensors in the vicinity of the user.

5. The method of claim 4, further comprising:

detecting a change in the location information of the user; and

updating one or more actions displayed on the mobile device based on detecting the change in the location information.

6. The method of claim 1, further comprising:

wirelessly transmitting a user profile from the mobile device of the user to the server; and

determining the one or more actions based on the user profile.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein the user profile comprises a user identity verified by a certificate.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein determining one or more actions available to the user comprises querying a database to determine one or more actions available to the user, wherein the database is to store information related to a location of the location sensor.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein the server is installed with an ICS application to control equipment and facility resources.

10. A method according to claim 1, wherein the mobile worker carries an identifier token, such geographic marking being used for unintentional location detection, which in combination with the second positioning method authorises the action of accessing the device.

11. The method of claim 9, wherein the ICS application is a commercially available application.

12. The method of claim 1, further comprising:

storing the location information in a database in association with the user.

13. The method of claim 1, further comprising:

generating one or more events based on the location information of the user.

14. The method of claim 1, wherein the one or more actions include at least one of control of a device or facility resource, maintenance of a device or facility resource, and diagnostics of a device or facility resource.

15. The method of claim 9, wherein the ICS application is one of a data collection and monitoring control system application, a building management system application, a building automation system application, a human interface application, and a manufacturing execution system application.

16. A system for controlling equipment and facility resources via a user's mobile device based on location, the system comprising:

a server;

a mobile device in wireless communication with the server,

wherein the mobile device is configured to detect location information of a user within or near a facility using a location sensor and transmit the location information to the server, an

The server is configured to determine one or more messages or one or more actions that the user is able to use based on the location information, and to wirelessly transmit instructions to the mobile device to display the one or more actions determined for the user in a user interface that represents actions that are available in an industrial control system application, ICS, application, the user interface enabling the user to receive messages and interact with equipment or facility resources located in the vicinity of the user by interacting with the one or more actions displayed in the user interface,

17. The system of claim 16, wherein the location information is detected using a location sensor installed within the facility with the user indoors.

18. The system of claim 16, wherein the location information is detected using GPS signals from the mobile device if the user is outdoors.

19. The system of claim 16, wherein the mobile device is further configured to continuously scan for location sensors in the vicinity of the user.

20. A system according to claim 16 wherein location detection incorporates detection methods requiring conscious action or interaction of the mobile device user with a location sensor and methods in the form of unconscious background detection.

21. The system of claim 20, wherein the location sensor comprises a Near Field Communication (NFC) device and/or a QR code.

22. The system according to claim 20, wherein the method in the form of unintentional background detection comprises a GPS and/or Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) beacon.

23. The system of claim 16, wherein the combination of location methods allows for a double verification of the user's location, improves accuracy, and improves the protection against tampering or tampering with the geotag.

24. The system of claim 19, wherein the mobile device is further configured to detect a change in the location information of the user, and

wherein the server is further configured to update one or more actions displayed on the mobile device based on detecting the change in the location information.

25. The system of claim 16, wherein the mobile device is further configured to transmit a user profile to the server, and

wherein the server is configured to determine the one or more actions based on the user profile.

26. The system of claim 16, wherein the server is configured to query a database for storing information relating to the location of the location sensor to determine one or more actions available to the user.

27. The system of claim 25, wherein the user profile comprises a user identity verified by a certificate.

28. The system of claim 16, wherein the server is configured to store the location information in a database in association with the user.

29. The system of claim 16, wherein the server is configured to generate one or more events based on the location information of the user.

30. The system of claim 16, wherein the one or more actions include at least one of control of a device or facility resource, maintenance of a device or facility resource, and diagnostics of a device or facility resource.

31. The system of claim 16, wherein the server is installed with an ICS application to control equipment and facility resources.

32. The system of claim 31, wherein the ICS application is one of a data collection and monitoring control system application, a building management system application, a building automation system application, a human interface application, and a manufacturing execution system application.

33. The system of claim 31, wherein the ICS application is a commercially available application.

34. A non-transitory computer readable medium storing instructions executable by a processing device for implementing a method for controlling equipment and facility resources via a user's mobile device based on location, the method comprising the steps of:

35. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 34, wherein the location information is detected using a location sensor installed within the facility while the user is indoors.

36. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 34, wherein the location information is detected using GPS signals from the mobile device if the user is outdoors.

37. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 34, wherein the method further comprises:

determining the one or more actions based on the user profile.

38. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 37, wherein the user profile comprises a user identity verified by a certificate.

39. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 34, wherein the method further comprises storing the location information in a database in association with the user.

40. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 34, wherein the method further comprises generating one or more events based on the location information of the user.

41. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 34, wherein the one or more actions include at least one of control of a device or facility resource, maintenance of a device or facility resource, and diagnostics of a device or facility resource.

42. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 34, wherein the server is installed with an ICS application to control equipment and facility resources.

43. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 42, wherein the ICS application is one of a data collection and monitoring control system application, a building management system application, a building automation system application, a human interface application, and a manufacturing execution system application.

44. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 42, wherein the ICS application is a commercially available application.

45. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 34, wherein the method further comprises continuously scanning location sensors near the user.

46. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 44, wherein the method further comprises:

detecting a change in the location information of the user; and

47. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 34, wherein determining one or more actions available to the user comprises querying a database to determine one or more actions available to the user, wherein the database is to store information related to a location of the location sensor.