What Zwangsläufigkeit (the unavoidability feature) is and how it works

Ajax systems get a new feature: the unavoidability, or Zwangsläufigkeit. It becomes available with the latest version of OS Malevich. The feature is determined by the VdS standard and is a common practice in Germany. It’s a market habit that is widely implemented with each security system installation to minimize false alarms and rapid response unit (RRU) calls. Let’s figure out how the feature works.

VdS states that security systems must raise the alarm only when an intrusion or another emergency has actually occurred. This can be achieved by minimizing the number of false alarms in the following ways:

1. Arming the system should be possible only if all the devices function properly, and the system is malfunction-free.
2. Users should be able to enter the site physically only if they have disarmed the security system. Physically blocking the entrance prevents false alarms caused by forgetfulness.

As for the first point, Ajax systems already have System integrity check. Before arming happens, the feature runs the status check on all devices in the system. If any door or window is open, any detectors’ enclosure is damaged, or communication with one of the devices is lost, the system will not be armed. As for limiting physical access to the protected site, the system should have devices for automatic entrance locking/unlocking: a blocking element and a bolt switch contact.

How to integrate door-locking devices in Ajax systems

Ajax offers wired Superior MultiTransmitter Fibra or Superior Transmitter Fibra for integrating door-locking devices into an Ajax system and monitoring their state. The system will inform users whether the devices are currently locked or unlocked. For automatic locking/unlocking, Superior MultiRelay Fibra can be used. There are also wireless options: ​​MultiTransmitter Jeweller (firmware version 2.13 or later) and Relay Jeweller. 

At the latest Special Event, the Ajax team introduced Superior MultiTransmitter IO (4X4) Fibra, an integration module that can make the whole process much easier. It has not only inputs but also two logic and two relay outputs with dry contacts to control connected devices. The IO model integrates all necessary devices into an Ajax system and can control them too.

Let’s take a look at sample connection schemes to understand how to use these devices to implement the unavoidability feature in practice.

How to put together the unavoidability setup

In this first scheme, the system is controlled by Superior Hub Hybrid (2G or 4G version). Superior DoorProtect G3 Fibra that is installed at the entrance detects a door being closed. In this case, Superior KeyPad TouchScreen Fibra is used to arm/disarm the protected site.

A blocking element is a small motorized locking bolt installed inside the door. It locks when the system is armed and unlocks when it is disarmed. The element is connected to both Superior MultiTransmitter Fibra to inform about the state (locked/unlocked) and Superior MultiRelay Fibra, which automatically controls the bolt.

A bolt switch contact is a press mechanism typically fitted into a flat striking plate that is mounted in the door frame. The bolt switch contact is connected to Superior MultiTransmitter Fibra and used to monitor the door locking. It is activated by pressing a locking bolt on a switch. If the locking bolt presses the bolt switch, the door is locked. The bolt’s position is checked during the arming process. If the “locked” status is not received, the arming process fails, and Ajax apps notify of the incident.

In this second scheme, the setup is similar but uses Superior MultiTransmitter IO (4X4) Fibra to manage locking devices. The module offers not only integration but also takes over the automation, so an additional relay is no longer required. The setup also includes the new Superior KeyPad Outdoor Fibra, which has been presented at Ajax Special Event.

Apart from these devices, automatic door openers and electric locks are common additions to such setups, so they are often integrated into Ajax systems using Superior MultiRelay Fibra. Learn more about how to integrate such devices into an Ajax system.

How the unavoidability feature works

Now, when the system is ready, let us have a look at how the unavoidability feature prevents false alarms:

1. A user closes the door, locks it with keys, and arms the system.
2. A hub runs the system integrity check to inspect it for malfunctions and verifies whether all doors/windows are closed. If the check detects a malfunction, Ajax apps inform about the problem and suggest how to fix it. If the integrity check detects no issues, the hub activates a blocking element.
3. The blocking element automatically draws out a bolt, thus blocking the door.
4. At the same time, the bolt switch contact is pressed. 
5. The bolt’s position is checked during the arming process. Ajax apps notify the user that the door was locked according to VdS requirements. If the “locked” status is not received, the arming process fails, and Ajax apps notify the user of the incident.
6. The entrance remains blocked until the system is disarmed. Even if users use their keys to unlock the door, the blocking element will still prevent it from opening.

To learn more about how to connect all these devices to Superior MultiTransmitter IO (4X4) Fibra, integrate them into the system, and configure the unavoidability feature in Ajax apps, please check this comprehensive guide.

Feature availability

The unavoidability feature is available with the latest versions of Ajax apps. While it is commonly used in the German market, Ajax Systems made it available worldwide. It is a useful enhancement for every Ajax system. Unavoidability will help prevent false alarms if a user forgets to disarm the system when entering the protected site.