Abstract: Systems for monitoring a confined space include image sensors, such as cameras, and access control devices, such as intercoms and scanning devices, positioned within the interior and external to the confined space. Sensors for detecting hazardous materials, light sources, and audio output devices, such as speakers, may also be positioned within the confined space. Equipment within the confined space may be explosion proof or intrinsically safe and rated for use in hazardous areas. A first single electrical cable, such as a multi-core cable, may engage all of the system components external to the confined space to power components. A second single electrical cable may engage all of the components within the confined space to the power components. A monitoring station may receive video, audio, sensor, and access data from the system equipment and generate alarms and notifications responsive to unauthorized access attempts, hazardous materials, or irregular user incidents.

Abstract: Methods for monitoring the movement of latch members using wireless sensors include receiving wireless sensor data that indicates the rate of movement of a latch member toward an open or closed position. Based on correspondence between the rate of movement and latch function data that associates movement rates with functionality and life expectancy of latch members, the health and useable life expectancy of the latch member may be estimated. Additionally, if the movement of the latch member does not fall within threshold minimum and maximum values, or if the movement of a latch does not correspond to a command, output indicating a malfunction may be generated or pipe moving operations associated with the latch member may be canceled.

Abstract: Methods for monitoring the positions of latch members in a fingerboard structure through use of wireless sensors include using wireless sensor data to determine the angular position of a given latch member, in real-time. If the angular position of the latch member deviates from an expected position by more than a threshold value, this may indicate a possible malfunction of the latch member, and a pipe moving operation may be cancelled. The wireless sensors may also measure rates of movement of a latch member toward the open and closed positions. The rates of movement may be used to estimate the health and useable life expectancy of the latch member. Additionally, if the movement of the latch does not fall within threshold minimum and maximum values, or if the movement of a latch does not correspond to a command, pipe moving operations associated with the latch member may be canceled.