Analysis and design of time-deadbands for univariate alarm systems

Time-deadbands (or alarm latches) are popular alarm configuration methods used in industry to improve the alarm system performance. In this paper, time-deadband based configurations for the case of univariate alarm systems are analyzed. Mathematical models are developed based on Markov processes, and analytical expressions for performance indices (the false alarm rate, missed alarm rate, and expected detection delay) are derived. Systematic design procedures are also proposed, and the utility of the methods is illustrated through design examples.