Methods and systems for configuring one or more devices

Abstract

Aspects of the invention are directed to systems and methods for configuring one or more devices installed in a building. One or more embodiments of the invention describe a method comprising the steps of establishing, by a mobile device, a connection with a first device via a short-range network. The method also describes the step of enabling the first device to determine one or more unconfigured devices by the first device broadcasting a discovery message via the short-range network. The method further describes the step of enabling the first device to configure the one or more unconfigured devices via the short-range network in response to the determination of the one or more unconfigured devices.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention generally relates to building automation systems (BAS). More particularly, this invention relates to systems and methods for configuring one or more devices installed in a building. Background Technology

[0002] Multiple different devices are installed in the building to maintain the ambient temperature and meet other requirements within the building. These devices can be air conditioners, fire detectors, coolers, variable air volume (VAV) units, or other similar devices. Each of these devices needs to be installed and commissioned to ensure they are fully operational.

[0003] Existing methods for commissioning these devices require manually setting Internet Protocol (IP) addresses, Service Set Identifiers (SSIDs), grid IDs, and passwords. Other existing solutions for commissioning these devices involve using commissioning tools employed by technicians. For this purpose, technicians must carry these tools to every single device installed in the building. Furthermore, technicians must manually access each device, for example, using a ladder. Typically, there are hundreds or thousands of such devices installed in a building, and technicians must manually access each one for commissioning and maintenance. Therefore, commissioning these devices in a building can take technicians days or months. This process is time-consuming. There is no method to automatically configure these devices without physical access.

[0004] In view of the above problems, there is a need for efficient systems and methods for automatically and simultaneously configuring one or more devices in a building. There is also a requirement to significantly reduce the time and manual labor required for technicians to configure these devices. To address the problems in existing solutions, systems and methods are disclosed. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Various embodiments of the present invention describe a method for configuring one or more devices. The method includes the step of: establishing a connection with a first device via a short-range network by a mobile device. The method further includes the step of: enabling the first device to determine one or more unconfigured devices by broadcasting a discovery message via the short-range network. The method further includes the step of: enabling the first device to configure one or more unconfigured devices via the short-range network in response to the determination of one or more unconfigured devices.

[0006] In embodiments of the present invention, the method further includes the following steps: communicating with a first device and one or more unconfigured devices via a short-range network using different broadcast and / or unicast commands; and transmitting broadcast and / or unicast commands via data frames to configure one or more unconfigured devices.

[0007] In different embodiments of the present invention, the short-range network is a Wi-Fi network.

[0008] In embodiments of the present invention, a first device transmits encrypted configuration information to one or more unconfigured devices for configuring the one or more unconfigured devices. Furthermore, the one or more unconfigured devices decrypt the encrypted configuration information.

[0009] In another embodiment of the invention, the first device is enabled to transmit a blink command to one or more configured devices to locate or identify the configured devices.

[0010] In another embodiment of the present invention, the method further includes the following steps: after configuring one or more unconfigured devices, changing from an unconfigured state of one or more unconfigured devices to a configured state.

[0011] In another embodiment of the invention, the first device is connected to a short-range network dongle for communicating with a mobile device via a short-range network.

[0012] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the first device simultaneously and / or iteratively configures one or more unconfigured devices via a short-range network.

[0013] In different embodiments of the invention, the configuration of the first device by the mobile device and the configuration of one or more unconfigured devices by the first device are performed at the data link layer.

[0014] In another embodiment of the invention, when the first device receives an identification message from one or more unconfigured devices, the first device identifies one or more unconfigured devices.

[0015] In embodiments of the present invention, the first device reconfigures and / or unconfigures one or more configured devices.

[0016] Various embodiments of the present invention describe a method for configuring one or more devices. The method further includes the steps of: connecting a first device to a mobile device via a short-range network, and identifying one or more unconfigured devices by having the first device broadcast a discovery message via the short-range network. The method further includes the steps of: receiving an identification message from one or more unconfigured devices in response to the discovery message, and configuring one or more unconfigured devices via the short-range network in response to receiving the identification message.

[0017] In embodiments of the present invention, the method further includes the following step: receiving an acknowledgment message after configuring one or more unconfigured devices.

[0018] Various embodiments of the present invention describe a system for configuring one or more devices. The system includes a mobile device and a first device. The mobile device is configured to establish a connection with the first device via a short-range network. The first device is configured to identify one or more unconfigured devices by broadcasting a discovery message via the short-range network. The first device is also configured to receive an identification message from the one or more unconfigured devices in response to the discovery message. The first device is further configured to configure the one or more unconfigured devices in response to receiving the identification message.

[0019] In different embodiments of the invention, the mobile device communicates with a first device and one or more unconfigured devices via a short-range network using different broadcast and / or unicast commands. Furthermore, broadcast and / or unicast commands are transmitted via data frames to configure one or more unconfigured devices.

[0020] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the mobile device enables the first device to reconfigure and / or deconfigure one or more configured devices.

[0021] In an embodiment of the present invention, a first device transmits encrypted configuration information to one or more unconfigured devices for configuring the one or more unconfigured devices. The one or more unconfigured devices decrypt the encrypted configuration information.

[0022] In another embodiment of the invention, the first device is configured to change from an unconfigured state of one or more unconfigured devices to a configured state after configuring one or more unconfigured devices.

[0023] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the configuration of the first device by the mobile device and the configuration of one or more unconfigured devices by the first device are performed at the data link layer.

[0024] In another embodiment of the invention, a computer-readable medium for configuring one or more devices is disclosed. The computer-readable medium includes one or more processors and a memory coupled to the one or more processors, the memory storing instructions executable by the one or more processors. The one or more processors are configured to connect a first device to a mobile device via a short-range network and to identify one or more unconfigured devices by having the first device broadcast a discovery message via the short-range network. The one or more processors are further configured to receive an identification message from the one or more unconfigured devices in response to the discovery message, and to configure the one or more unconfigured devices via the short-range network in response to receiving the identification message.

[0025] This overview is provided to introduce the selection of concepts in a simplified form, which are further described in the detailed description below. This overview is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to help determine the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0026] Other aspects, advantages, and key features of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments disclosed in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1A An exemplary system architecture according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0028] Figure 1B A model communication between a mobile device and a first device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is depicted.

[0029] Figure 1C A model signaling diagram depicting a first device and one or more configured / unconfigured devices according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0030] Figures 1D to 1I Sample screenshots depicting the interface of an application on a mobile device.

[0031] Figure 2 A block diagram depicting different components of an exemplary mobile device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 3 A block diagram depicting different components of an exemplary first device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 4 The illustration depicts an exemplary flowchart of a method for performing the invention, implemented by a mobile device according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0034] Figure 5The illustration depicts an exemplary flowchart of a method for performing the invention, implemented by a first device according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0035] Throughout the accompanying drawings, corresponding reference numbers indicate the corresponding components. Detailed Implementation

[0036] This document describes techniques for employing systems and methods for configuring one or more devices. One or more devices may be installed on each floor of a building. These devices, if not currently configured, can be configured by a mobile device operated using an application. The mobile device can establish a connection with a first device from the one or more devices using a short-range network. The mobile device can be operated by a person / technician capable of connecting to the first device using an application on the mobile device. Once a connection with the first device is established, the first device is able to communicate with the remaining unconfigured devices installed in the building. Communication between the first device and the unconfigured devices occurs via a short-range network. Several different types of messages can be exchanged between the first device and the unconfigured devices to configure the unconfigured devices in the building. These messages are described in detail below.

[0037] As used herein, one or more devices may be installed in a building and may include a first device, one or more configured devices, and one or more unconfigured devices. The first device may be considered a master device, which is directly connected to the mobile device via a short-range network. The one or more configured devices may be devices that have been configured or previously configured by a technician / personnel. The one or more unconfigured devices may be devices that are not configured and await configuration by the first device. These one or more unconfigured devices may be considered slave devices communicating with the first device (which may be considered the master device) via a short-range network. The first device, one or more configured devices, and one or more unconfigured devices may communicate with each other via the BACnet communication protocol for building automation and control (BAC) networks, which is well known in the art. In an exemplary embodiment, each of the first device and one or more unconfigured devices is a controller for a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) control system, a chiller system, a lighting control system, an access control system, and a fire detection system and their associated equipment. The first device may be a configured device or capable of being configured as a gateway or access point for communicating with one or more unconfigured devices using an application.

[0038] As used herein, a short-range network can be a WiFi network, a Bluetooth network, a ZigBee network, a near-field communication network, or any such network known or obvious to those skilled in the art.

[0039] Throughout this specification, reference numeral 106 describes all devices. Reference numerals 106A-106E (106) can be considered as independent devices. Similarly, throughout this specification, reference numeral 104 describes all floors. Reference numerals 104A-104D (104) can be considered as independent floors.

[0040] The networks described herein may use message formats according to the network's technical requirements / protocols. As an example, for Wi-Fi networks, the message format is used as an 802.11 data frame, which includes a header and a payload. The message format used herein is configured in the payload of the 802.11 data frame. This invention uses a novel message format in the payload, as described herein.

[0041] Figure 1A An exemplary system architecture 100A according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is depicted. For example... Figure 1A As depicted, building / property 102 may have a first floor 104A, a second floor 104B, a third floor 104C, and a fourth floor 104D. Each floor 104 may have one or more devices 106. (As shown in...) Figure 1A As can be seen, one device 106A can be installed on the first floor 104A, and two devices 106B and 106C can be installed on the second floor 104B. Similarly, one device 106D can be installed on the third floor 104C, and one device 106E can be installed on the fourth floor 104D. Although building 102 has only four floors 104A-104D, those skilled in the art will understand that building 102 can have more or fewer floors. Similarly, for the sake of simplicity, only five devices 106A-106E are shown on floor 104 of building 102, but those skilled in the art will understand that any number of devices can be present on each floor 104.

[0042] Furthermore, the mobile device 108 with the application can be operated by personnel / technicians 110 and can be connected to the short-range network 112. Additionally, personnel 110 can select any device from one or more devices 106 installed on the corresponding floor 104 of building 102 to connect to the mobile device 108. For this purpose, personnel 110 can make that particular device the first / master device by connecting or inserting a dual in-line package (DIP) switch or a hardware switch into any device. Thus, such a device can act as an access point. Therefore, the device selected by personnel 110 can be connected to the mobile device 108 and is referred to below as the first device. Consider the following example: where personnel 110 selects device 106A installed on the first floor 104A for connecting the mobile device 108 to device 106A, and is therefore referred to as the first device 106A or the master device. The connection between the first device 106A and the mobile device 108 is password protected. Although the personnel 110 have selected device 106A as the first device from one or more devices 106A-106E, those skilled in the art will understand that any other device from one or more devices 106A-106E can also be selected as the first device. Communication between the mobile device 108 and the first device 106A is described below. Figure 1B The explanation is as follows.

[0043] Figure 1B This describes exemplary communication between a mobile device 108 and a first device 106A according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. For example... Figure 1B As depicted, mobile device 108 is connected to short-range network 112. Furthermore, a first device 106A (the host device) is connected to a short-range dongle 114, which provides the short-range network 112 to the first device 106A for communication with mobile device 108. In an exemplary embodiment, short-range dongle 114 is a Wi-Fi dongle. Using short-range network 112, mobile device 108 can establish a connection with first device 106A. To establish a connection with first device 106A, a person 110 can use an application stored and executed on mobile device 108 to connect to the selected first device 106A. Figure 1D Describe the application's interface, showing how it's used to build mobile device 10. 8 A "Connect" button connects the mobile device 108 to the first device 106A. Furthermore, communication between the mobile device 108 and the first device 106A is conducted via XML / HTML (Extended Markup Language or Hypertext Markup Language) format through a REST (Representational State Transfer) API (Application Programming Interface). The first device 106A has a built-in web server, which can be accessed by a web browser or application in the mobile device 108 to configure the first device 106A.

[0044] In an exemplary embodiment, the first device 106A can be either a configured device or an unconfigured device. If the first device 106A is a configured device, a person 110 can use an application in mobile device 108 to configure the first device 106A to configure one or more other devices 106B-106E. Furthermore, if the first device 106A is an unconfigured device, the person 110 can use an application in mobile device 108 to first configure the first device 106A, and then enable the first device 106A to configure one or more other unconfigured devices 106B-106E (or slave devices). In an exemplary embodiment, the first device 106A is configured using an application in mobile device 108 or by connecting or inserting a dual in-line package (DIP) switch or a hardware switch into the first device 106A. The following... Figure 1C The document provides details on how the first device 106A is configured with one or more other devices 106B-106E.

[0045] Figure 1C A model signaling diagram 100C depicts a first device 106A and one or more devices 106B-106E according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Once a mobile device 108 is connected to the first device 106A via a short-range network 112, a person 110 can use an application in the mobile device 108 to enable the first device 106A to configure one or more other devices 106B-106E.

[0046] After mobile device 108 connects to first device 106A, first device 106A can broadcast a network name (SSID). Other devices 106B-106E can monitor airborne radio traffic and extract the network name broadcast by first device 106A. Once devices 106B-106E have extracted the network name, they can connect to the same network 112. This radio connection can be an open connection, i.e., no passphrase / password is required for connection, but data exchange is performed securely using a symmetric key. Therefore, each of one or more devices 106B-106E can also connect to first device 106A via a short-range network.

[0047] At step 120, the first device 106A can broadcast an M_DISCOVER message to all other devices 106B-106E via the short-range network 112. This can be done by selecting the "..." option provided in the application by personnel 110. Auto Discovery Mode "This is done when all configured and unconfigured devices 106 in building 102 are discovered. Additionally, personnel 110 can select this option after the mobile device 108 is connected to the first device 106A." Auto Discovery Mode ". Figure 1EThe interface of the application running on the mobile device 108 is depicted, showing a "Discover" button for discovering all configured and unconfigured devices 106.

[0048] Table 1 below describes the contents of the M_DISCOVER message or the information contained therein. The M_DISCOVER message contains the hardware address of the first device 106A and padding bytes. M_IE_HARDWARE_ADDR M_IE_PAD_BYTES Table 1 At step 122, in response to the M_DISCOVER message, device 106B transmits an M_REQ_IDENTITY message (i.e., an identification message) to the first device 106A via short-range network 112. Table 2 below describes the content of the M_REQ_IDENTITY message or the information contained therein. The M_REQ_IDENTITY message contains the hardware address of device 106B, the vendor identifier of device 106B, the device identifier of device 106B, the serial number of device 106B, the location of device 106B, and padding bytes. M_IE_HARDWARE_ADDR M_IE_VENDOR_ID M_IE_DEVICE_ID M_IE_SERIAL_NUM M_IE_DEVICE_LOCATION M_IE_PAD_BYTES Table 2 Similarly, at step 124, in response to the M_DISCOVER message, device 106C transmits an M_REQ_IDENTITY message to the first device 106A via short-range network 112. At step 126, in response to the M_DISCOVER message, device 106D transmits an M_REQ_IDENTITY message to the first device 106A via short-range network 112.

[0049] Furthermore, in step 128, in response to the M_DISCOVER message, device 106E transmits an M_DEVICE_IDENTITY message to the first device 106A via short-range network 112. Table 3 below describes the content or information contained in the M_DEVICE_IDENTITY message. Since device 106E is a configured device, the M_DEVICE_IDENTITY message sent by device 106E includes the hardware address of the configured device 106E, the vendor identifier of the configured device 106E, the device identifier of the configured device 106E, the serial number of the configured device 106E, the location of the configured device 106E, the Internet Protocol (IP) address of the configured device 106E, the credentials of the configured device 106E, and padding bytes. M_IE_HARDWARE_ADDR M_IE_VENDOR_ID M_IE_DEVICE_ID M_IE_SERIAL_NUM M_IE_DEVICE_LOCATION M_IE_IP_PARA M_IE_CRED M_IE_PAD_BYTES Table 3 When the first device 106A receives the M_REQ_IDENTITY message and / or the M_DEVICE_IDENTITY message from all devices 106B-106E, the first device 106A can identify the unconfigured devices 106B-106D and the configured device 106E based on the configuration status of these devices 106. For example, the first device 106A identifies device 106E as a configured device, while the other devices 106B-106D are unconfigured devices.

[0050] At step 130, the first device 106A may also broadcast an M_DISCOVER_UNCONFIGURED message to all or one or more unconfigured devices 106B-106D via the short-range network 112. This is provided in the personnel 110 selection application. Start Discovering Unconfigured "This is performed when all unconfigured devices 106 in building 102 are discovered. This step 130 differs from step 120 because in step 120, all configured and unconfigured devices are discovered by the first device 106A, while in step 130, only unconfigured devices are discovered by the first device 106A. When device 106A broadcasts the M_DISCOVER_UNCONFIGURED message, configured device 106E does not respond because this message is only expected for unconfigured devices 106B-106D."

[0051] Table 4 below describes the contents or information contained in the M_DISCOVER_UNCONFIGURED message. The M_DISCOVER_UNCONFIGURED message contains the hardware address of the first device 106A and padding bytes. M_IE_HARDWARE_ADDR M_IE_PAD_BYTES Table 4 At step 132, in response to the M_DISCOVER_UNCONFIGURED message, the unconfigured device 106B transmits an M_REQ_IDENTITY message (i.e., an identification message) to the first device 106A via the short-range network 112. The content of the M_REQ_IDENTITY message is explained above in Table 2.

[0052] Similarly, in step 134, the unconfigured device 106C transmits an M_REQ_IDENTITY message to the first device 106A via the short-range network 112. In step 136, in response to the M_DISCOVER_UNCONFIGURED message, the unconfigured device 106D transmits an M_REQ_IDENTITY message to the first device 106A via the short-range network 112. When the first device 106A receives M_REQ_IDENTITY messages from all unconfigured devices 106B-106D, the first device 106A can then communicate only with the unconfigured devices 106B-106D.

[0053] At step 138, the first device 106A can transmit a (unicast) M_CONFIG_DEVICE message to the unconfigured device 106B via the short-range network 112. To do this, a person 110 can enter configuration information (e.g., a password) in an application stored in the mobile device 108 and then click the "Save" option provided in the application. This message enables the first device 106A to transmit encrypted configuration information to the unconfigured device 106B. Such encrypted configuration information may include, but is not limited to, an Internet Protocol (IP) subnet address, a default gateway, location, and / or credentials / password. Figure 1F The application interface is depicted, showing the "Configure Devices" button used to configure one or more unconfigured devices 106B-106E. Figure 1G The application interface is depicted, showing the selection made by personnel 110 to configure the unconfigured device 106B. Figure 1H The application interface is depicted, showing personnel 110 entering configuration information in the application, and displaying a "Save" button to save the configuration information.

[0054] When the unconfigured device 106B receives the M_CONFIG_DEVICE message, it can decrypt the encrypted configuration information and implement the decrypted configuration information. Implementing the configuration information by the unconfigured device 106B configures the unconfigured device 106B. Within the scope of this invention, the first device 106A can transmit the same configuration information to the unconfigured device 106B, and this configuration information is also used by the first device 106A as its configuration information. In other words, the same configuration information can be used to configure both the first device 106A and the unconfigured device 106B. Also within the scope of this invention, different configuration information can be used to configure both the first device 106A and the unconfigured device 106B. Furthermore, using a symmetric key algorithm to encrypt and decrypt the configuration information to enhance data security is well-known in the art.

[0055] Table 5 below describes the content or information contained in the M_CONFIG_DEVICE message. The M_CONFIG_DEVICE message includes the hardware address of device 106B, the device identifier of device 106B, the serial number of device 106B, the location of device 106B, the Internet Protocol (IP) address, credentials, and padding bytes. M_IE_HARDWARE_ADDR M_IE_DEVICE_ID M_IE_SERIAL_NUM M_IE_DEVICE_LOCATION M_IE_IP_PARA M_IE_CRED M_IE_PAD_BYTES Table 5 At step 140, in response to the M_CONFIG_DEVICE message, the unconfigured device 106B can transmit an M_CONFIG_DEVICE_ACK message to the first device 106A via the short-range network 112. The M_CONFIG_DEVICE_ACK message provides the first device 106A with confirmation that the unconfigured device 106B has been configured and is therefore now a configured device.

[0056] Table 6 below describes the contents of the M_CONFIG_DEVICE_ACK message or the information contained therein. The M_CONFIG_DEVICE_ACK message contains the hardware address of device 106B, the device identifier of device 106B, the serial number of device 106B, the location of device 106B, the Internet Protocol (IP) address, credentials, and padding bytes. M_IE_HARDWARE_ADDR M_IE_DEVICE_ID M_IE_SERIAL_NUM M_IE_DEVICE_LOCATION M_IE_IP_PARA M_IE_CRED M_IE_PAD_BYTES Table 6 At step 142, the first device 106A can transmit (unicast) an M_START_LED_BLINK message to the unconfigured device 106B via the short-range network 112. When personnel 110 initiates an LED blinking sequence from the application, the M_START_LED_BLINK message enables the first device 106A to unicast the message to the unconfigured device 106B to locate or identify the newly configured device 106B. Figure 1I The application interface is depicted, showing personnel 110 selecting the “Blink” button for locating and identifying the configured device 106B in building 102.

[0057] Table 7 below describes the content or information contained in the M_START_LED_BLINK message. The M_START_LED_BLINK message contains the hardware address of device 106B, the device identifier of device 106B, the serial number of device 106B, and padding bytes. M_IE_HARDWARE_ADDR M_IE_DEVICE_ID M_IE_SERIAL_NUM M_IE_PAD_BYTES Table 7 At step 144, in response to the M_START_LED_BLINK message, the unconfigured device 106B may begin blinking upon receiving the M_START_LED_BLINK message (i.e., the blinking command), and may also transmit an M_START_LED_BLINK_ACK message to the first device 106A via the short-range network 112. The M_START_LED_BLINK_ACK message provides the first device 106A with an acknowledgment that the M_START_LED_BLINK message has been successfully received by the configured device 106B.

[0058] Table 8 below describes the content or information contained in the M_START_LED_BLINK_ACK message. The M_START_LED_BLINK_ACK message contains the hardware address of device 106B, the device identifier of device 106B, the serial number of device 106B, and padding bytes. M_IE_HARDWARE_ADDR M_IE_DEVICE_ID M_IE_SERIAL_NUM M_IE_PAD_BYTES Table 8 In the same manner, from steps 146 to 152, the unconfigured device 106C can be configured and begins flashing by sharing the messages described above for the unconfigured device 106B. Similarly, from steps 154 to 160, the unconfigured device 106D can be configured and begins flashing.

[0059] After configuring the unconfigured devices 106B-106D, the first device 106A can change the unconfigured state of the unconfigured devices 106B-106D to the configured state, because these devices 106B-106D have been successfully configured by the first device 106A.

[0060] All messages between the first device 106A and the mobile device 108, and between the first device 106A and the configured and (as well as) unconfigured devices 106B-106DE, are exchanged via their respective short-range networks using the data link layer (via data frame unicast or broadcast, to configure one or more unconfigured devices). Therefore, the invention also includes applications in the first device 106A and the mobile device 108 to perform configuration of one or more unconfigured devices 106B-106D by the first device 106A at the data link layer.

[0061] Thus, the present invention enables the first device 106A to simultaneously and / or iteratively configure one or more unconfigured devices 106B-106D via the short-range network 112. By configuring all unconfigured devices 106B-106D via the first device 106A, manual configuration of each device 106 is unnecessary, and the time spent configuring these devices 106B-106C is significantly reduced. The present invention also addresses accessibility issues, such as eliminating the need for personnel 110 to use ladders to configure these devices 106B-106D, as these devices can be configured using the application in the mobile device 108.

[0062] The invention further includes a person 110 for unconfiguring a configured device 106E. To this end, the person 110 may open an application on the mobile device 108 and enable the first device 106A to unconfigure the configured device 106E. At step 162, the first device 106A may send an M_UNCONFIG_DEVICE message to the configured device 106E, and upon receiving the M_UNCONFIG_DEVICE message, the configured device 106E may uninstall the implemented configuration information to become an unconfigured device.

[0063] The invention further includes a person 110 for reconfiguring a configured device 106E. For this purpose, the person 110 may open an application on the mobile device 108 and enable the first device 106A to reconfigure the configured device 106E. At step 164, the first device 106A may transmit an M_RECONFIG_DEVICE message to the configured device 106E, and upon receiving the M_RECONFIG_DEVICE message, the configured device 106E may be reconfigured by the person 110 by implementing new configuration information on the configured device 106E.

[0064] Table 9 below describes the content or information contained in the M_UNCONFIG_DEVICE message. The M_UNCONFIG_DEVICE message contains the hardware address of device 106E, the device identifier of device 106E, the serial number of device 106E, and padding bytes. M_IE_HARDWARE_ADDR M_IE_DEVICE_ID M_IE_SERIAL_NUM M_IE_PAD_BYTES Table 9 Each of the Wi-Fi data link layer messages exchanged between the first device 106A and one or more configured and unconfigured devices 106B-106E may have the following message formats, as provided in Table 10 below. Furthermore, each of the aforementioned Wi-Fi data link layer messages exchanged between the first device 106A and one or more configured and unconfigured devices 106B-106E may have the following message address formats, as provided in Table 11 below. Table 12 below describes the magic byte (8-byte) format that is a component of the message format as described in Table 10 above. 1 0x33 2 0x33 … 7 0x33 8 Message begins (0x4D) Table 12 Table 13 below shows the fixed-length information elements that are part of the message format described in Table 10 above. 1 Information element code X Fixed length data Table 13 Table 14 below shows the variable-length information elements that are part of the message format as described in Table 10 above. 1 Information element code 1 Data length X data Table 14 Table 15 below shows details about the different information elements that are components of the message format described in Table 10 above. Figure 2 An exemplary embodiment of the present invention is depicted. The mobile device 108 may include, but is not limited to, a communication unit 202, an interface 204, a determination unit 206, a memory 208, and / or a processor 210. The communication unit 202 may be adapted to establish a connection with the first device 106A via a short-range network 112. The communication unit 202 may also be adapted to transmit messages to the first device 106A via the short-range network 112 (as described above). The interface 204 may be adapted to display an application interface, using which any device can be selected by a person 110 as the first device, as described above. Using the interface 204, the first device 106A can communicate with other devices 106B-106E, as described above. The determination unit 206 may be adapted to determine the configured and unconfigured devices 106B-106E based on M_REQ_IDENTITY and / or M_DEVICE_IDENTITY messages from the configured and unconfigured devices 106B-106E. Memory 208 may be adapted to store applications through which mobile device 108 and first device 106A communicate. Processor 210 may be adapted to perform the functions / operations as described herein.

[0065] Furthermore, the communication unit 202, interface 204, determination unit 206, and memory 208 may be communicatively coupled to the processor 210. The different units described herein are exemplary. One or more units may be used to perform the invention. For example, tasks performed by the communication unit 202, interface 204, determination unit 206, and memory 208 and / or processor 210 may be performed by a single unit. Alternatively, a greater number of units as described herein may be used to perform the invention.

[0066] Figure 3 Block diagrams depicting various components of an exemplary first device 106A according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The first device 106A may include, but is not limited to, a communication unit 302, a slot / port 304, a determination unit 306, a memory 308, and / or a processor 310. The communication unit 302 may be adapted to establish a connection with one or more configured and unconfigured devices 106B-106E via a short-range network 112. The communication unit 302 may also be adapted to transmit messages (as described above) to one or more configured and unconfigured devices 106B-106E via the short-range network 112. The slot / port 304 may be adapted to receive a short-range dongle (i.e., a WiFi dongle) for providing the short-range network 112 to the first device 106A. The determination unit 306 may be adapted to determine the configured and unconfigured devices 106B-106E based on M_REQ_IDENTITY and / or M_DEVICE_IDENTITY messages received by the first device from the configured and unconfigured devices 106B-106E. Memory 308 may be adapted to store the configuration state of each of the configured and unconfigured 106B-106E. Processor 310 may be adapted to perform the operations as described herein. Note that the other configured and unconfigured devices 106B-106E may include communication units, slots / ports, determination units, memory, and / or processors that operate in a similar manner to the components / modules of the first device 106A. Figure 3 The determining unit 306 in the middle has the same as Figure 2 The determining unit 206 has a similar function. Whether the determining unit is included in the mobile device 108, the first device 106A, or both can be a design choice.

[0067] Furthermore, communication unit 302, slot / port 304, determination unit 306, and / or memory 308 may be communicatively coupled to processor 310. The different units described herein are exemplary. One or more units may be used to perform the invention. For example, tasks performed by communication unit 302, slot / port 304, determination unit 306, and memory 308 and / or processor 310 may be performed by a single unit. Alternatively, a greater number of units as described herein may be used to perform the invention.

[0068] Figure 4A flowchart illustrating the features of the invention in an exemplary embodiment is provided. Method flowchart 400 describes a method performed by mobile device 108 for configuring one or more unconfigured devices 106B-106D. Method flowchart 400 begins at step 402.

[0069] At step 404, the application in mobile device 108 can establish a connection with first device 106A via short-range network 112. This is in accordance with the above. Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1C The following is a more detailed discussion.

[0070] At step 406, the application in mobile device 108 enables first device 106A to identify one or more unconfigured devices 106B-106D by broadcasting a discovery message (i.e., M_DISCOVER_UNCONFIGURED) via short-range network 112. This is in the above... Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1C The following is a more detailed discussion.

[0071] At step 408, the application in mobile device 108 enables first device 106A to configure one or more unconfigured devices 106B-106D via short-range network 112 in response to the determination of one or more unconfigured devices 106B-106D. This is in the above... Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1C This will be discussed in more detail later. Then, the method flowchart 400 can end at 410.

[0072] Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the invention outlines the features of the invention. Method flowchart 500 describes a method performed by a first device 106A for configuring one or more unconfigured devices 106B-106D. Method flowchart 500 begins at step 502.

[0073] At step 504, the first device 106A can be connected to the mobile device 108A via the short-range network 112. This is in accordance with the above. Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1C The following is a more detailed discussion.

[0074] At step 506, the first device 106A can identify one or more unconfigured devices 106B-106D by broadcasting a discovery message (i.e., M_DISCOVER_UNCONFIGURED) via the short-range network 112. This is in accordance with the above. Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1C The following is a more detailed discussion.

[0075] At step 508, the first device 106A may receive an identification message (i.e., M_REQ_IDENTITY) from one or more unconfigured devices 106B-106D in response to a discovery message. This is in accordance with the above. Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1C The following is a more detailed discussion.

[0076] At step 510, the first device 106A may configure one or more unconfigured devices 106B-106D via the short-range network 112 in response to receiving an identification message. This is in accordance with the above. Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 1C This will be discussed in more detail later. Then, the method flowchart 500 can end at 512.

[0077] In one embodiment of the invention, the invention can be operated using one or more computer-readable devices. The one or more computer-readable devices can be associated with a first device 106A. The computer-readable medium includes one or more processors and memory coupled to the one or more processors, the memory storing instructions executable by the one or more processors. The one or more processors are configured to connect the first device 106A to a mobile device 108 via a short-range network 112, and to identify one or more unconfigured devices 106B-106D by broadcasting a discovery message by the first device 106A via the short-range network 112. The one or more processors are also configured to receive an identification message from the one or more unconfigured devices 106B-106D in response to the discovery message. The one or more processors are also configured to configure the one or more unconfigured devices 106B-106D via the short-range network 112 in response to receiving the identification message.

[0078] This invention is applicable to various industries / fields, such as, but not limited to, banking, hospitality, housing, and construction. / The construction industry, offices, universities, hospitals, colleges, homes, and any other industry / sector known in the field and in which the device 106 is used.

[0079] The embodiments of the present invention described herein are exemplary, and various modifications and alterations made by those skilled in the art are within the scope of the present invention.

[0080] Exemplary computer-readable media include flash memory drives, digital versatile discs (DVDs), compact discs (CDs), floppy disks, and cassette tapes. By way of example and not limitation, computer-readable media include computer storage media and communication media. Computer storage media include volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented according to any method or technology for storing information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. Computer storage media are tangible and mutually exclusive with communication media. Computer storage media are implemented in hardware and do not include carrier waves and propagating signals. For the purposes of this invention, computer storage media are not signals themselves. Exemplary computer storage media include hard disks, flash drives, and other solid-state memories. In contrast, communication media typically embody computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in modulated data signals (e.g., carrier waves or other transmission mechanisms) and include any information delivery medium.

[0081] Although described in conjunction with an exemplary computing system environment, the examples of the present invention have the capability to be implemented using many other general or special computing system environments, configurations, or devices.

[0082] Examples of the invention can be described in the general context of computer-executable instructions (e.g., program modules) executed by one or more computers or other devices as software, firmware, hardware, or a combination thereof. Computer-executable instructions can be organized into one or more computer-executable components or modules. Typically, program modules include, but are not limited to, routines, programs, objects, components, and data structures that perform a particular task or implement a particular abstract data type. Aspects of the invention can be implemented using any number and organization of such components or modules. For example, aspects of the invention are not limited to the specific computer-executable instructions or specific components or modules illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described herein. Other examples of the invention may include different computer-executable instructions or components that have more or less functionality than those illustrated and described herein. Aspects of the invention transform a general-purpose computer into a dedicated computing device when configured to execute the instructions described herein.

[0083] The order in which operations are performed or executed in the examples of the invention illustrated and described herein is not essential unless otherwise specified. That is, operations may be performed in any order unless otherwise specified, and examples of the invention may include additional operations or fewer operations than those disclosed herein. For example, it is contemplated that a particular operation be performed before, after, or simultaneously with another operation, which is within the scope of this invention.

[0084] As used in this subject matter specification, the term "controller" can essentially mean any processor or computing unit or device, including but not limited to direct digital control of HVAC systems, area controllers for HVAC systems, single-core processors, single-processors with software multithreading capabilities, multi-core processors, multi-core processors with software multithreading capabilities, multi-core processors with hardware multithreading technology, parallel platforms, and parallel platforms with distributed shared memory. Additionally, a processor can mean an integrated circuit, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a programmable logic controller (PLC), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. Processors can utilize nanoscale architectures (e.g., but not limited to molecular and quantum dot-based transistors, switches, and gates) to optimize space usage or enhance the performance of user equipment. Processors can also be implemented as combinations of computing units.

[0085] When describing elements or examples of aspects of the invention, the articles “a,” “an,” “the,” and “the” are intended to indicate the presence of one or more elements. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are intended to include and indicate the presence of additional elements besides those listed. The term “exemplary” is intended to mean “an example of…”. The phrase “one or more of the following: A, B, and C” means “at least one of A and / or at least one of B and / or at least one of C.”

[0086] Having described aspects of the invention in detail, it will be apparent that modifications and variations are possible without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. Since various changes can be made in the above-described constructions, products, and methods without departing from the scope of the invention, it is intended that everything contained in the foregoing description and shown in the accompanying drawings should be understood as illustrative and not restrictive.

[0087] Although the subject matter has been described using language specific to structural features and / or actions, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or actions described above. The specific features and actions described above are disclosed as examples of implementing the claims, and other equivalent features and actions are intended to be within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A method comprising: - A connection to a first device is established by a mobile device via a short-range network, the first device being selected by a person associated with the mobile device from one or more devices installed on the corresponding floor of the building; - Enabling the first device to determine one or more unconfigured devices by broadcasting a discovery message via the short-range network includes: enabling the first device to broadcast a first discovery message to the one or more devices via the short-range network; enabling the first device to receive one or more identification messages in response to the first discovery message from the one or more devices, and determining, based on each of the one or more identification messages in response to the first discovery message, whether the corresponding device is an unconfigured device or a configured device; and - Enabling the first device to configure the one or more unconfigured devices via the short-range network in response to the determination of one or more unconfigured devices includes: enabling the first device to broadcast a second discovery message different from the first discovery message to the one or more unconfigured devices; enabling the first device to receive one or more identification messages in response to the second discovery message from the one or more unconfigured devices; and enabling the first device to configure the corresponding unconfigured device by transmitting encrypted configuration information to the corresponding unconfigured device based on each of the one or more identification messages in response to the second discovery message.

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising communicating with the first device and the one or more unconfigured devices via the short-range network using different broadcast and / or unicast commands, wherein the broadcast and / or unicast commands are transmitted via data frames to configure the one or more unconfigured devices.

3. The method as described in claim 1, wherein, The short-range network is a Wi-Fi network.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein, The one or more unconfigured devices decrypt the encrypted configuration information.

5. The method of claim 1, further comprising, after configuring the one or more unconfigured devices, changing from an unconfigured state of the one or more unconfigured devices to a configured state.

6. The method of claim 5, further comprising enabling the first device to transmit a flashing command to one or more configured devices to locate or identify the configured devices.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein, The first device is connected to a short-range network dongle for communicating with the mobile device via the short-range network.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein, The first device configures the one or more unconfigured devices simultaneously and / or iteratively via the short-range network.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein, If the first device is an unconfigured device, the mobile device first configures the first device, and the configuration of the first device by the mobile device and the configuration of the one or more unconfigured devices by the first device are performed at the data link layer.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein, The first device reconfigures and / or deconfigures one or more configured devices.

11. The method of claim 1, further comprising receiving one or more confirmation messages from the one or more unconfigured devices after configuring the one or more unconfigured devices.

12. A system comprising: - One or more devices installed on the corresponding floor of a building; and - A mobile device configured to establish a connection with a first device via a short-range network, the first device being selected by a person associated with the mobile device from one or more devices; as well as - The first device is configured to: Determining one or more unconfigured devices by broadcasting a discovery message via the short-range network includes: broadcasting a first discovery message to the one or more devices via the short-range network; receiving one or more identification messages in response to the first discovery message from the one or more devices; and determining, based on each of the one or more identification messages in response to the first discovery message, whether the corresponding device is an unconfigured device or a configured device; and Configuring one or more unconfigured devices via the short-range network in response to the determination of one or more unconfigured devices includes: broadcasting a second discovery message different from the first discovery message to the one or more unconfigured devices; receiving one or more identification messages in response to the second discovery message from the one or more unconfigured devices; and configuring the corresponding unconfigured device by transmitting encrypted configuration information to the corresponding unconfigured device based on each of the one or more identification messages in response to the second discovery message.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein, The mobile device communicates with the first device and the one or more unconfigured devices via the short-range network using different broadcast and / or unicast commands, wherein the broadcast and / or unicast commands are transmitted via data frames to configure the one or more unconfigured devices.

14. The system of claim 12, wherein, The mobile device enables the first device to reconfigure and / or deconfigure one or more configured devices.

15. The system of claim 12, wherein, The one or more unconfigured devices decrypt the encrypted configuration information.

16. The system of claim 12, wherein, The first device is configured to change from an unconfigured state of the one or more unconfigured devices to a configured state after configuring the one or more unconfigured devices.

17. The system of claim 12, wherein, If the first device is an unconfigured device, the mobile device first configures the first device, and the configuration of the first device by the mobile device and the configuration of the one or more unconfigured devices by the first device are performed at the data link layer.

18. A computer-readable medium comprising one or more processors and a memory coupled to the one or more processors, the memory storing instructions executable by the one or more processors, the one or more processors being configured to: A first device is connected to a mobile device via a short-range network, the first device being selected by a person associated with the mobile device from one or more devices installed on a corresponding floor of the building; Determining one or more unconfigured devices by having the first device broadcast a discovery message via the short-range network includes: broadcasting a first discovery message to the one or more devices via the short-range network; receiving one or more identification messages in response to the first discovery message from the one or more devices; and determining, based on each of the one or more identification messages in response to the first discovery message, whether the corresponding device is an unconfigured device or a configured device; and Configuring one or more unconfigured devices via the short-range network in response to the determination of one or more unconfigured devices includes: broadcasting a second discovery message different from the first discovery message to the one or more unconfigured devices; receiving one or more identification messages in response to the second discovery message from the one or more unconfigured devices; and configuring the corresponding unconfigured device by transmitting encrypted configuration information to the corresponding unconfigured device based on each of the one or more identification messages in response to the second discovery message.

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