Method and system for identifying a networked device installed at an installation location

Abstract

The invention relates to a method and system for identifying a networked device installed at an installation location. A system and method of identifying a networked device of a set of networked devices installed at a first installation location known in a management server of the set of networked devices installed at the installation locations of the set of networked devices is disclosed. Each networked device of the set of networked devices has a unique identifier. A predetermined sound is emitted using a loudspeaker of a portable device. Information indicative of the first installation location is further transmitted from the portable device to the management server. Upon detection of the predetermined sound using a microphone in a first networked device of the set of networked devices, the unique identifier of the first networked device is transmitted from the first networked device to the management server. Then, at the management server, the unique identifier of the first networked device is linked to the first installation location.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to identifying a networked device in a group of networked devices that is installed at an installation location among a plurality of installation locations of the group of networked devices. Background Art

[0002] In a system with a set of networked devices installed at various locations, knowing which device is installed where can be beneficial. Such networked devices can be, for example, networked speakers, networked door stations, or networked cameras. For example, when a set of networked speakers is to be installed in a building, such as a department store, it is often desirable to know which speaker is installed where so that targeted audio messages can be emitted from speakers at specific locations. For example, a specific message might be intended to be emitted from one or more speakers installed in a specific department of the department store. In a typical scenario, each networked device has a unique identifier—that is, an identifier unique to that device. Examples of unique identifiers include serial numbers or MAC addresses. Furthermore, the installation locations are predetermined and known to a management server. After installation, each networked device can communicate with the management server, for example, via a network to which the installed networked device can connect. The management server can then receive the unique identifiers from the networked devices and, therefore, know which networked devices are connected to the network, but it will not know which networked device is located at which installation location unless such a link is established. In the prior art, this is typically achieved by specifying which networked device is to be installed at which location. However, this process makes the installation of networked devices more cumbersome because, even in cases where the networked devices may all be identical except for the unique identifier, the person installing the networked devices must ensure that the correct networked device is installed in the correct location. In addition, there is always a risk that some networked devices are not installed in their intended installation locations. This is particularly serious when the number of networked devices is large. Furthermore, in some scenarios, the installer may not be someone who understands networked devices other than how they should be physically installed. The unique identifier may also not be visible through visual inspection but may require a connection to the networked device. Finally, if multiple networked devices have already been installed and it is noticed that at least some of the networked devices have not been installed in the intended installation locations, the installation locations may make it difficult to obtain the unique identifiers of the networked devices.

[0003] Therefore, improvements in this regard are desired. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of the foregoing, it is an object of the inventive concept to mitigate, alleviate or eliminate one or more of the above identified deficiencies and disadvantages in the art, singly or in combination.

[0005] According to a first aspect, a method is provided for identifying a networked device in a group of networked devices that is installed at a first installation location among the installation locations of the group of networked devices. Each networked device in the group of networked devices has a unique identifier, and the first installation location is known to a management server. A predetermined sound is emitted using a speaker of a portable device, and the portable device transmits information indicating the first installation location to the management server. Upon detecting the predetermined sound using a microphone in the first networked device, the first networked device transmits its unique identifier to the management server. At the management server, the unique identifier of the first networked device is linked to the first installation location.

[0006] A networked device is any type of device that is connected to a network so that it can communicate information within the network. Examples of such networked devices include speakers, security cameras, door stations, etc.

[0007] The unique identifier may be any identifier that is unique to the networked device.

[0008] “Installation location known in the management system” means that the installation location itself is known in the management system, for example, as a location on a map. However, which networked device is installed at which installation location is unknown in the management system.

[0009] When a predetermined sound is emitted from the speaker of the portable device, the portable device does not need to be located at any particular location. However, the fact that the predetermined sound is detected using the microphone in the first networked device implies that the portable device should be positioned so that the emitted predetermined sound can be detected using the microphone in the first networked device. Therefore, it is implied that the portable device is located within a distance from the first installation location such that the microphone in the networked device installed at the first installation location can detect the emitted predetermined sound.

[0010] By sending information identifying the first installation location to the management server, along with the unique identifier of the first networked device that detected the predetermined sound, it can be concluded that the first networked device is installed at the first installation location. Thus, after the networked device is installed at the first installation location, the system can determine which networked device is installed at the first installation location. This is further possible without requiring a physical or electronic connection to the networked device. This is further possible when the networked device is installed such that all or part of any visual indication of its unique identifier on the networked device is obscured.

[0011] Upon detecting the predetermined sound, the first networked device may further use a speaker in the first networked device to emit a predetermined response sound.

[0012] By emitting the predetermined response sound, the user of the portable device can verify that the predetermined response sound is emitted from the network-connected device installed at the first installation location.

[0013] In a scenario where the group of networked devices is mounted at mounting locations such that the predetermined sound can be detected using microphones in both the first and second networked devices, the portable device should be located closer to the first mounting location than to all other mounting locations of the group of networked devices when the predetermined sound is emitted.

[0014] Thus, in an embodiment, the predetermined sound includes a first frequency and a second frequency, and when the predetermined sound is emitted, the portable device is located closer to the first installation location than to all other installation locations of the group of networked devices. A first ratio between the amplitude of the predetermined sound detected in the first networked device at the first frequency and the amplitude at the second frequency can then be obtained. When the predetermined sound is detected using a microphone in the second networked device, a unique identifier of the second networked device is sent from the second networked device to the management server. A second ratio between the amplitude of the predetermined sound detected in the second networked device at the first frequency and the amplitude at the second frequency can then be obtained. The management server then determines which of the first and second networked devices is closest to the portable device. This determination is based on the first and second ratios. At the management server, the unique identifier of the networked device determined to be closest to the portable device is then linked to the first installation location.

[0015] By emitting two frequencies, the relative distances from the portable device can be determined for the first and second networked devices based on a first ratio and a second ratio, respectively. This is possible because the amplitude of the higher of the first and second frequencies attenuates more over a distance than the amplitude of the lower of the first and second frequencies. Therefore, because the portable device is closest to the first mounting location when the predetermined sound is emitted, the networked device closest to the portable device will also be closest to the first mounting location. Therefore, after the networked device is installed at the first mounting location, even if a group of networked devices are installed at the mounting location such that the predetermined sound emitted when the portable device is located at one location can be detected by two or more networked devices installed in different mounting locations, it becomes possible to determine which networked device is installed at the first mounting location in the system.

[0016] The first ratio and the second ratio can be determined at the first networked device. The first ratio and the second ratio are then sent from the first networked device and the second networked device to the management server, respectively. Subsequently, obtaining the first ratio and the second ratio at the management server includes receiving the first ratio and the second ratio sent to the management server from the first networked device and the second networked device, respectively.

[0017] Alternatively, the first ratio and the second ratio may be determined at the management server. This further requires sending a representation of the detected predetermined sound from the first networked device to the management server, and sending a representation of the detected predetermined sound from the second networked device to the management server. Consequently, obtaining the first ratio and the second ratio at the management server includes determining the first ratio and the second ratio.

[0018] According to a second aspect, a system for identifying networked devices in a group of networked devices that are installed at corresponding installation locations in the group of networked devices is provided. The system includes: a portable device including a speaker; a management server including a memory storing the installation locations of the group of networked devices; and the group of networked devices, each of which includes a microphone and is installed at the installation location. The portable device further includes circuitry configured to perform: an emit function configured to emit a predetermined sound using the portable device's speaker; and a transmit function configured to transmit information indicating the installation location in the group of networked devices to the management server. Each networked device in the group of networked devices further includes circuitry configured to perform an identifier transmit function configured to transmit a unique identifier of the networked device to the management server upon detecting a predetermined sound using the microphone. The management server further includes circuitry configured to perform a link function configured to link the unique identifier to the installation location.

[0019] The optional additional functions of the method according to the first aspect described above are also applicable to the system according to the third aspect, when applicable. To avoid unnecessary repetitions, reference is made to the above.

[0020] According to a third aspect, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium is provided, having stored thereon instructions for implementing the method according to the first aspect when the instructions are executed by the system according to the second aspect.

[0021] Further scope of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description given below. However, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating preferred embodiments of the present invention, are given by way of illustration only, as various changes and modifications within the scope of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description.

[0022] Therefore, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the specific components of the described devices or the behavior of the described methods, because such devices and methods can vary. It should also be understood that the terms used herein are only used to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to be restrictive. It must be noted that the articles "a" and "the" as used in this specification and the appended claims mean that there are one or more elements, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "a unit" or "the unit" can include several devices, etc. In addition, "comprises," "comprising," "containing," and similar words do not exclude other elements or steps. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] The above and other aspects of the present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, which should not be considered limiting but are for explanation and understanding.

[0024] Figure 1 A system for identifying which networking device of a group of networking devices is installed at a respective one of the group of installation locations for the networking devices is shown.

[0025] Figure 2 Show Figure 1 portable devices in the system.

[0026] Figure 3 Show Figure 1 networked devices in your system.

[0027] Figure 4 Show Figure 1 The management server of the system.

[0028] Figure 5 A flow chart illustrating an embodiment of a method directed to identifying which networking device of a group of networking devices is installed at a respective one of the group of installation locations of the networking devices.

[0029] Figures 6a to 6c A flow chart illustrating a further embodiment of a method directed to identifying which networking device of a group of networking devices is installed at a respective one of the group of networking devices' installation locations. Specific embodiments

[0030] The present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings in which currently preferred embodiments of the invention are illustrated. However, the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein.

[0031] The present invention is applicable to any scenario where it is necessary to determine which of a group of networked devices having corresponding unique identifiers is installed in a first installation location among installation locations known in a management server.

[0032] For example, the present invention is applicable to a scenario in which a group of networked devices are to be installed at corresponding installation locations in an installation location, wherein each networked device has a unique identifier, i.e., each networked device has an identifier that is unique to the device. For example, the networked device may be a networked speaker or a networked camera or any other networked device with a unique identifier. The unique identifier may be, for example, a serial number or a MAC address. The installation location has been predetermined and is known in a management server, for example on a map of the area or location where the networked device is to be installed. After installation, each networked device can communicate with the management server, for example, via a network to which the installed networked devices can be connected and to which the management server is also connected. The management server can then receive the unique identifier from the networked device and thus know which networked devices are connected to the network. However, unless such a link is established, the management server does not know which networked device is located at which installation location.

[0033] In another example, the present invention is also applicable to the following scenario: when a group of networked devices have been installed at installation locations according to a map known to a management server, wherein the unique identifier of each networked device is pre-linked to a corresponding one of the installation locations, but after installation, it is determined that at least some of the networked devices have been installed at incorrect installation locations relative to the indications on the map. Therefore, in this scenario, the person installing the networked devices should have identified the unique identifier of each of the networked devices in the group and installed them in the corresponding installation locations according to the links on the map known to the management server, but in at least some cases failed to install the correct networked device at the correct installation location.

[0034] Now combine Figures 1 to 4 A system 100 for identifying which networking device 140 of a group of networking devices 140 is installed at a corresponding installation location of installation locations A through E of the group of networking devices 140 is described. Figure 1 As shown in FIG, system 100 includes a portable device 110 , a set of networked devices 140 , and a management server 170 .

[0035] Figure 2 Show Figure 1 The portable device 110 of the system 100 can be a mobile phone, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, etc.

[0036] Portable device 110 includes a speaker 115 and circuitry 120. Circuitry 120 is configured to perform the functions of portable device 110. Circuitry 120 may include a processor 122, such as a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a tensor processing unit (TPU), a microcontroller, or a microprocessor. Processor 122 is configured to execute program code. For example, the program code may be configured to perform the functions of portable device 110.

[0037] The portable device 110 may further include a memory 130. The memory 130 may be one or more of a buffer, a flash memory, a hard drive, a removable medium, a volatile memory, a non-volatile memory, a random access memory (RAM), and another suitable device. In a typical arrangement, the memory 130 may include a non-volatile memory for long-term data storage and a volatile memory used as device memory for the circuit 120. The memory 130 may exchange data with the circuit 120 via a data bus. Supporting control lines and an address bus may also exist between the memory 130 and the circuit 120.

[0038] The functionality of the portable device 110 may be embodied in the form of executable logic routines (e.g., lines of code, software programs, etc.) stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium (e.g., memory 130) of the portable device 110 and executed by the circuitry 120 (e.g., using the processor 122). Furthermore, the functionality of the portable device 110 may be a stand-alone software application or form part of a software application that performs additional tasks associated with the portable device 110. The described functionality may be considered as a method that the processing unit (e.g., the processor 122 of the circuitry 120) is configured to perform. Likewise, while the described functionality may be implemented by software, such functionality may also be implemented by dedicated hardware or firmware, or some combination of hardware, firmware, and / or software.

[0039] The speaker 115 is configured to emit a predetermined sound. In an embodiment, the speaker is configured to emit a sound comprising two frequencies. The two frequencies can be emitted in parallel or sequentially. Figure 5 and Figures 6a to 6c Further description of the predetermined sounds that the speaker 115 is configured to emit in different embodiments is provided in the description of .

[0040] The circuit 120 is configured to execute a sound emitting function 132 configured to emit a predetermined sound using the speaker 115. The circuit 120 is further configured to execute an information transmitting function 134 configured to transmit information indicating the installation location to the management server 170. Specifically, the installation location at which the networked device 140 to be determined is installed is indicated.

[0041] In the following Figure 5 and Figures 6a to 6c Further description of the actions performed by the functionality of the portable device 110 in different embodiments is provided in the description of FIG.

[0042] Figure 3 Show Figure 1 The networked device 140 of the system 100 has a unique identifier. The networked device 140 may be a networked speaker, a networked camera, or a networked door station.

[0043] Networked device 140 includes a microphone 145 and circuitry 150. Circuitry 150 is configured to perform the functions of networked device 140. Circuitry 150 may include a processor 152, such as, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a tensor processing unit (TPU), a microcontroller, or a microprocessor. Processor 152 is configured to execute program code. The program code may be configured to perform the functions of networked device 140, for example.

[0044] The networking device 140 may further include a memory 160. The memory 160 may be one or more of a buffer, a flash memory, a hard drive, a removable medium, a volatile memory, a non-volatile memory, a random access memory (RAM), and another suitable device. In a typical arrangement, the memory 160 may include a non-volatile memory for long-term data storage and a volatile memory used as device memory for the circuit 150. The memory 160 may exchange data with the circuit 150 via a data bus. Matching control lines and an address bus may also exist between the memory 160 and the circuit 150.

[0045] The functionality of networking device 140 may be embodied in the form of executable logic routines (e.g., lines of code, software programs, etc.) stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium (e.g., memory 160) of networking device 140 and executed by circuitry 150 (e.g., using processor 152). Furthermore, the functionality of networking device 140 may be a standalone software application or form part of a software application that performs additional tasks associated with networking device 140. The described functionality may be considered a method that a processing unit (e.g., processor 152 of circuitry 150) is configured to perform. Likewise, while the described functionality may be implemented in software, the functionality may also be implemented in dedicated hardware or firmware, or some combination of hardware, firmware, and / or software.

[0046] The microphone 145 is configured to detect a predetermined sound.

[0047] The circuitry 150 is configured to execute an identifier transmission function 162 configured to transmit a unique identifier of the networked device 140 to the management server 170 upon detecting a predetermined sound emitted by the speaker 115 of the portable device 110 .

[0048] In an embodiment where the speaker 115 of the portable device 110 is configured to emit a predetermined sound including a first frequency and a second frequency, the circuit 150 may be further configured to execute a ratio determination function 164 configured to determine a ratio between the amplitude of the predetermined sound detected by the microphone 145 at the first frequency and the amplitude of the predetermined sound at the second frequency when the predetermined sound is detected using the microphone 145. The circuit is then further configured to execute a ratio transmission function 166 configured to transmit the ratio to the management server 170.

[0049] Alternatively, in an embodiment where the speaker 115 of the portable device 110 is configured to emit a predetermined sound including a first frequency and a second frequency, the circuit 150 may be further configured to execute a sound sending function 168, which is configured to send a representation of the detected predetermined sound to the management server 170 when the predetermined sound is detected using the microphone 145.

[0050] Additionally, the circuit 150 may be further configured to execute a sound emitting function 169 configured to emit a predetermined response sound using the speaker 148 upon detecting a predetermined sound emitted by the speaker 115 of the portable device 110 .

[0051] In the following Figure 5 and Figures 6a to 6c A further description of the actions performed by the functionality of the networking device 140 in different embodiments is provided in the description of FIG.

[0052] Figure 4 Show Figure 1 The management server 170 of the system 100 may be implemented in a device separate from the portable device 110, such as a separate computer or computer system connected to the network to which the networked device is connected or to be connected. Alternatively, the management server may be implemented in the portable device 110.

[0053] If the management server 170 is implemented as a device separate from the portable device 110, the management server 170 includes a memory 175 and a circuit 180. The circuit 180 is configured to perform the functions of the management server 170. The circuit 180 may include a processor 182 such as, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a tensor processing unit (TPU), a microcontroller, or a microprocessor. The processor 182 is configured to execute program code. The program code may be configured to perform the functions of the management server 170, for example.

[0054] The management server 170 may further include a memory 190. The memory 190 may be one or more of a buffer, flash memory, a hard drive, removable media, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, random access memory (RAM), or another suitable device. In a typical arrangement, the memory 190 may include non-volatile memory for long-term data storage and volatile memory used as device memory for the circuit 180. The memory 190 may exchange data with the circuit 180 via a data bus. Supporting control lines and an address bus may also exist between the memory 190 and the circuit 180.

[0055] The functionality of the management server 170 may be embodied in the form of executable logic routines (e.g., lines of code, software programs, etc.) stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium (e.g., memory 190) of the management server 170 and executed by the circuitry 180 (e.g., using processor 182). Furthermore, the functionality of the management server 170 may be a standalone software application or form part of a software application that performs additional tasks associated with the management server 170. The described functionality may be considered a method that a processing unit (e.g., processor 182 of the circuitry 180) is configured to perform. Likewise, while the described functionality may be implemented in software, it may also be implemented in dedicated hardware or firmware, or some combination of hardware, firmware, and / or software.

[0056] The storage 175 is configured to store the installation locations and links between the unique identifiers of the networked devices and the corresponding installation locations. The storage 175 may further be configured to store a map and an indication of the installation locations on the map.

[0057] The circuitry 180 is configured to execute a linking function 192 configured to link the unique identifier received from the networked device 140 to the installation location.

[0058] In an embodiment, the speaker 115 of the portable device 110 is configured to emit a predetermined sound including a first frequency and a second frequency, and when the predetermined sound is emitted, the portable device is placed closer to one installation location than to all other installation locations of the group of networked devices. For example, if it is to be determined which networked device 140 is installed Figure 1 If the portable device is located at a first mounting location A in the portable device 110, the portable device is located at a location A' that is closer to the first mounting location A than to all other mounting locations B through E. In this embodiment, the circuitry 180 may be further configured to execute a ratio acquisition function 194 configured to obtain a respective ratio between the amplitude of the predetermined sound detected in each networked device at a first frequency and the amplitude at a second frequency. The circuitry 180 may then be further configured to execute a proximity determination function 196 configured to determine which of the networked devices is closest to the portable device based on the determined respective ratios. If respective ratios are received from two or more networked devices 140, the ratio acquisition function 194 may be configured to receive the respective ratios. Alternatively, if representations of the detected sound are received from two or more networked devices 140, the ratio acquisition function 194 may be configured to determine the respective ratios of the two or more networked devices 140. The linking function 192 may then be configured to link the unique identifier of the networked device determined to be closest to the portable device 110 to the first mounting location A.

[0059] If the management server 170 is implemented in the portable device 110, the portable device 110 will further include a storage 175. In addition, the circuitry 120 of the portable device 110 will be further configured to perform the functions of the management server 170, namely the linking function 192 and the optional ratio acquisition function 194 and proximity determination function 196.

[0060] Now combine Figure 5 and Figures 6a to 6c Embodiments of a method of identifying which networked device of a group of networked devices is installed at a first installation location are described.

[0061] exist Figure 5 In FIG. 5 , a flow chart is shown relating to an embodiment of a method 500 for identifying which networked device in a group of networked devices is installed at a first installation location. The method 500 may be performed, for example, at Figures 1 to 4 Each of the networked devices in the set of networked devices has a unique identifier, and may be, for example, as described with respect to Figure 3 The networked device 140 described, and using a method such as Figure 2 The portable device described in the portable device is executed. The installation location of the group of networked devices is such as about Figure 4 The management server 170 described is known in the art. Figure 4 As described, the management server may be implemented in a device separate from the portable device, or the management server may be implemented in the portable device. Therefore, when referring to the management device below, both cases are covered.

[0062] Method 500 is performed with respect to a first installation location in a set of installation locations for networked devices to determine which networked device in the set of networked devices is installed at the first installation location. Method 500 may then be repeated for some or all of the remaining installation locations for the remaining networked devices in the set of networked devices.

[0063] First, a predetermined sound is emitted ( S510 ) using the speaker of the portable device. The predetermined sound is emitted ( S510 ) at the location of the portable device, allowing the microphone of the networked device installed at the first installation location to detect the predetermined sound. The portable device further transmits ( S520 ) information indicating the first installation location to the management server. This information can be transmitted, for example, when the user of the portable device selects the first installation location on a map in the portable device. When the predetermined sound is detected using the microphone of the first networked device, the first networked device transmits ( S530 ) its unique identifier to the management server. Then, at the management server, the unique identifier of the first networked device is linked ( S580 ) to the first installation location.

[0064] The method 500 may further include the first networked device emitting a predetermined response sound upon detecting the predetermined sound (S590). In this manner, the operator can verify that the first networked device has detected the emitted predetermined sound and that the response sound emitted from the first networked device is from the first installation location for which the method 500 is being performed.

[0065] Method 500 is applicable to a scenario where only the first networked device in the group of networked devices detects the emitted predetermined sound, and no other networked device detects the emitted predetermined sound. This may be, for example, a scenario where the networked devices are sparsely distributed so that only one networked device at a time is within a distance from the portable device to detect the emitted predetermined sound.

[0066] In scenarios where more than one networked device can detect the emitted predetermined sound, the method may further include: verifying at the management server (S570) that only the unique identifier of the first networked device has been received before linking (S580) the unique identifier of the first networked device to the first installation location. If the management server receives the unique identifier of a further networked device, the portable device may be prompted to move closer to the first installation location and / or reduce the amplitude of the predetermined sound before repeating method 500 with respect to the first installation location. Additionally or alternatively, a user of the portable device may detect when the predetermined response sound is emitted from more than one networked device. Then, prior to repeating method 500 with respect to the first installation location, the portable device may be moved closer to the first installation location and / or the amplitude of the predetermined sound may be reduced. Additionally or alternatively, when emitting (S520) the predetermined sound, the portable device may be positioned such that the emitted sound cannot be detected by microphones of networked devices installed at installation locations other than the first installation location for which method 500 was performed.

[0067] In addition to linking S580 the unique identifier of the first networked device to the first installation location, the first networked device may also be provided with a name, such as a name indicative of the location where it is installed. For example, if the first networked device is installed in a building, the networked device may be given a name indicative of the part of the building where the first networked device is installed.

[0068] 6 , therein is shown a flow chart relating to a further example of a method 500 for identifying which of a group of networked devices is installed at a first installation location.

[0069] Method 600 may be used, for example, in connection with Figures 1 to 4 Each of the networked devices in the set of networked devices has a unique identifier, and may be, for example, as described with respect to Figure 3 The networked device 140 described, and using a method such as Figure 2 The portable device described in the portable device is executed. The installation location of the group of networked devices is such as about Figure 4 The management server 170 described is known in the art. Figure 4 As described, the management server may be implemented in a device separate from the portable device, or the management server may be implemented in the portable device. Therefore, when referring to the management device below, both cases are covered.

[0070] Method 600 is applicable to scenarios where a group of networked devices are installed at installation locations such that typically more than one networked device will detect a predetermined sound emitted by a portable device. In this regard, when method 600 is performed for a first installation location, the portable device is placed S605 at a location closer to the first installation location than to all other installation locations of the group of networked devices. The predetermined sound is then emitted S610. The predetermined sound includes two different frequencies, namely a first frequency and a second frequency. The reason for emitting two sounds of different frequencies is that the amplitude of a higher frequency sound is attenuated more than the amplitude of a lower frequency sound across the same distance. The first frequency and the second frequency can be emitted simultaneously, sequentially, or a combination of the two. In addition, the first and second frequency portions of the predetermined sound can be any type of sound wave, such as a sine wave.

[0071] The portable device further sends S620 information indicating the first installation location for which the method 600 is being performed.

[0072] The predetermined sound is then detected using the microphone of the first networked device. This means that the first networked device is installed at a location within a certain distance from the portable device so that the microphone of the first networked device can detect the predetermined sound. Upon detecting the predetermined sound, the first networked device transmits its unique identifier to the management server (S630).

[0073] Similarly, the predetermined sound is detected using the microphone of the second networked device. This means that the second networked device is also installed at a location within a certain distance from the portable device, so that the microphone of the second networked device can detect the predetermined sound. Upon detecting the predetermined sound, the first networked device transmits its unique identifier to the management server (S635).

[0074] At this stage, it is not possible to determine which of the first networked device and the second networked device is installed at the first installation location for which method 600 is performed. However, if the microphone in any of the further networked devices in the group of networked devices does not detect the predetermined sound being emitted, then one of the first networked device and the second networked device is installed at the first installation location for which method 600 is performed.

[0075] To determine which of the first and second networked devices is installed in the first installation location for which method 600 is respectively executed, a first ratio between the amplitude of a first frequency of a predetermined sound detected at the first networked device and the amplitude of a second frequency of the predetermined sound detected at the first networked device is obtained (S660) at the management server. Similarly, a second ratio between the amplitude of the first frequency of the predetermined sound detected at the second networked device and the amplitude of the second frequency of the predetermined sound detected at the second networked device is obtained (S662) at the management server. By comparing these ratios, it is possible to determine which of the first and second networked devices is closer to the location where the portable device was located when the predetermined sound was emitted. Specifically, if the first frequency is higher and the second frequency is lower, the networked device closest to the location where the portable device was located when the predetermined sound was emitted will have the highest ratio. If the first frequency is lower and the second frequency is higher, the networked device closest to the location where the portable device was located when the predetermined sound was emitted will have the lowest ratio.

[0076] After obtaining the first ratio and the second ratio, the management server determines (S664) which of the first and second networked devices is closest to the portable device, or in other words, closest to the location of the portable device at the time the predetermined sound was emitted. Finally, because the portable device was located closer to the first installation location than to all other installation locations of the group of networked devices when the predetermined sound was emitted, the networked device determined to be closest to the portable device will also be the networked device closest to the first installation location. Therefore, the management server links (S680) the unique identifier of the networked device determined to be closest to the portable device to the first installation location.

[0077] The networked device that is closest to the first installation location and whose unique identifier is linked to the first installation location can then be prompted, for example by a management server, to emit a predetermined response sound. In this way, the operator can verify that the predetermined response sound is coming from the first installation location for which method 600 is being performed.

[0078] The first ratio and the second ratio may be determined at the first networked device and the second networked device, respectively, or may be determined at the management server. In the following description, the description of two alternative embodiments is respectively about Figure 6b and Figure 6c described.

[0079] Go to Figure 6b , Figure 6b Disclosed are steps performed after detecting a predetermined sound being emitted in the first and second networked devices when a first ratio and a second ratio are determined in the first and second networked devices, respectively.

[0080] A first ratio between an amplitude of a first frequency of a predetermined sound detected at the first networked device and an amplitude of a second frequency of the predetermined sound detected at the first networked device is determined S640 at the first networked device.The first ratio is then sent S642 from the first networked device to the management server.

[0081] Similarly, a second ratio is determined S644 at the second networked device between the amplitude of the first frequency of the predetermined sound detected at the second networked device and the amplitude of the second frequency of the predetermined sound detected at the second networked device. The second ratio is then sent S646 from the second networked device to the management server.

[0082] Then, obtaining S660 the first ratio at the management server comprises receiving S660 the first ratio at the management server.

[0083] Similarly, obtaining S662 the second ratio at the management server then comprises receiving S662 the second ratio at the management server.

[0084] Go to Figure 6c , Figure 6c Disclosed are steps performed after detecting a predetermined sound emitted in a first networked device and a second networked device when a first ratio and a second ratio are determined in a management server.

[0085] A representation of the predetermined sound detected at the first networked device is sent S650 from the first networked device to the management server.

[0086] Then, obtaining S660 the first ratio at the management server comprises determining S660 a first ratio at the management server between an amplitude of a first frequency of the predetermined sound detected at the first networked device and an amplitude of a second frequency of the predetermined sound detected.

[0087] Similarly, a representation of the predetermined sound detected at the second networked device is sent S652 from the second networked device to the management server.

[0088] Then, obtaining S662 the second ratio at the management server comprises determining S662 a second ratio at the management server between the amplitude of the first frequency of the predetermined sound detected at the second networked device and the amplitude of the second frequency of the predetermined sound detected.

[0089] The above are about Figure 5 and Figures 6a to 6c The steps of the described method may be performed in different variants and with different degrees of automation in different parts of the system 100. Examples of such variants are described below.

[0090] For example, when a networked device detects a predetermined sound, the networked device may automatically send its unique identifier to the server. Alternatively, the networked device may also notify the server that it has detected the predetermined sound, and the server may link this information to the networked device's registered unique identifier, or the server may request the unique identifier once the networked device signals that it has detected the predetermined sound.

[0091] In other variations, if the portable device has a network connection to a networked device, the networked device may send its unique identifier to the portable device rather than directly to the server. If two or more networked devices detect a predetermined sound, they may each send their respective unique identifiers to the portable device. The portable device may also receive a representation of the detected sound so that the portable device can perform a process to determine which networked device is closest. Once the closest networked device is determined, the portable device may instruct the server to link the unique identifier of the networked device to the first installation location.

[0092] If only one networked device detects the predetermined sound and notifies the server, the server can automatically link the unique identifier of that networked device to the first installation location. Alternatively, the server can prompt the installer or user to confirm that the identified networked device should be linked to the first installation location. If two or more networked devices detect the predetermined sound, it can be determined as described above which of them is closest to the portable device that emitted the predetermined sound. The server can automatically link the networked device determined to be closest to the first installation location. Alternatively, a list of networked devices that detected the predetermined sound can be presented, with the networked devices sorted from closest to farthest. The installer or user can be prompted to indicate that the networked device at the top of the list is to be linked to the first installation location. Consistent with the above description, the networked device at the top of the list can be instructed to emit a confirmation sound so that the person carrying the portable device can hear that it is the intended networked device that has been identified. The person carrying the portable device can then indicate that this confirmation has been performed. Thereafter, the server can link the unique identifier of the networked device at the top of the list to the first installation location.

[0093] If two or more networked devices have been sorted from closest to furthest, then once the closest networked device has been linked to a first installation location, the server can automatically or through input from the installer proceed to link the next networked device on the list to another installation location known to be closer to the first location. To this end, the next networked device can be instructed to emit a confirmation sound so that the person carrying the portable device can confirm that the next networked device is in fact the second closest networked device.

[0094] Even if only one networked device detects the predetermined sound, that networked device can be instructed to emit a confirmation sound so that the person carrying the portable device can be sure that the intended networked device has been recognized. This can be useful, for example, in situations where the intended networked device is malfunctioning or blocked and does not detect the predetermined sound, but another networked device slightly further away does detect the predetermined sound, to avoid linking the wrong networked device to the first installation location.

[0095] Advantageously, networked devices may not always listen for the predetermined sound, but may only listen when they enter installation or configuration mode. The server may send an instruction to the networked device to enter installation mode and thereby begin listening for the predetermined sound. The networked device may then exit installation mode after the predetermined installation time has expired or upon an exit instruction from the server. If the portable device has a network connection to networked devices, the portable device may send an instruction to one or more networked devices throughout the network to begin listening for the predetermined sound. If such an instruction is sent from the portable device only to one of the networked devices, the networked device may in turn notify the server, which may instruct the other networked devices to begin listening. In other embodiments, the networked devices may continuously listen for the predetermined sound.

[0096] The information indicating the first installation location can be sent in various ways. As an example, the server can provide the portable device with a map of the locations where the networked devices are installed. When the person holding the portable device walks up to one of the networked devices, they can indicate this location on the map. This indication can then be sent to the server. In other embodiments, the portable device may be less complex, and the person holding the portable device can be instructed where to go based on a map on the server. This map can, for example, be printed out, or the person holding the portable device can be given verbal instructions by someone viewing the map on the server. When the portable device is taken to the desired location, the person holding the portable device can activate a predetermined sound. When the server receives information from the networked device that the networked device has detected the predetermined sound, the server can link the unique identifier of the networked device to the installation location to which the person was instructed to go. After a predetermined time has passed, after instructions from someone at the server, or after the networked device emits a sound indicating that the link has been completed, the person can proceed to another networked device.

[0097] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. Rather, numerous modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the appended claims. Such modifications and variations may be understood and implemented by those skilled in the art who practice the claimed invention through a study of the drawings, this disclosure, and the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method of identifying a networked device in a group of networked devices that is installed at a first installation location known to a management server among the installation locations of the group of networked devices, wherein each networked device in the group of networked devices has a unique identifier, the method comprising: emitting a predetermined sound using a speaker of a portable device, wherein the portable device is located closer to the first installation location than to all other installation locations of the set of networked devices, such that a microphone in a networked device installed at the first installation location can detect the emitted predetermined sound; sending information indicating the first installation location from the portable device to the management server; upon detecting the predetermined sound using a microphone in a first networked device, sending the unique identifier of the first networked device from the first networked device to the management server; and The unique identifier of the first networked device is linked to the first installation location at the management server.

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: When the predetermined sound is detected, the first network-connected device emits a predetermined response sound using a speaker in the first network-connected device.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined sound comprises a first frequency and a second frequency, and wherein, When the predetermined sound is emitted, the portable device is located closer to the first installation location than to all other installation locations of the set of networked devices, the method further comprising: obtaining, at the management server, a first ratio between an amplitude of the predetermined sound detected in the first networked device at the first frequency and an amplitude of the predetermined sound at the second frequency; upon detecting the predetermined sound using a microphone in a second networked device, transmitting the unique identifier of the second networked device from the second networked device to the management server; obtaining, at the management server, a second ratio between an amplitude of the predetermined sound detected in the second networked device at the first frequency and an amplitude at the second frequency; determining, at the management server, a networked device, one of the first networked device and the second networked device, that is closest to the portable device based on the first ratio and the second ratio; and The linked behaviors include: The unique identifier of the networked device determined to be closest to the portable device is linked to the first installation location.

4. The method according to claim 3, further comprising: determining, at the first networked device, a first ratio between the amplitude of the predetermined sound detected in the first networked device at the first frequency and the amplitude at the second frequency; sending the first ratio from the first networked device to the management server; determining, at the second networked device, a second ratio between the amplitude of the predetermined sound detected in the second networked device at the first frequency and the amplitude at the second frequency; and sending the second ratio from the second networked device to the management server, The action of obtaining the first ratio at the management server includes: receiving the first ratio, and The act of obtaining the second ratio at the management server includes: The second ratio is received.

5. The method according to claim 3, further comprising: transmitting a detected representation of the predetermined sound from the first networked device to the management server; and sending a detected representation of the predetermined sound from the second networked device to the management server, The action of obtaining the first ratio at the management server includes: determining, in the management server, the first ratio between the amplitude of the predetermined sound detected in the first networked device at the first frequency and the amplitude at the second frequency, and The act of obtaining the second ratio at the management server includes: A second ratio between the amplitude of the predetermined sound detected in the second networked device at the first frequency and the amplitude at the second frequency is determined in the management server.

6. A system for identifying a networked device in a group of networked devices that is installed at a corresponding installation location in the group of installation locations of the networked devices, the system comprising: portable devices including speakers; a management server comprising a memory storing said installation locations of said set of networked devices; as well as the set of networked devices installed at the installation location, each networked device comprising a microphone, wherein the portable device further comprises circuitry configured to: a sound emitting function configured to emit a predetermined sound using the speaker of the portable device, wherein the portable device is located closer to the first installation location than to all other installation locations of the group of networked devices, so that a microphone in a networked device installed at the first installation location can detect the emitted predetermined sound; as well as an information sending function configured to send information indicating the installation location to the management server, Each of the networked devices in the set of networked devices further comprises circuitry configured to perform: an identifier sending function configured to send the unique identifier of the networked device to the management server when the predetermined sound is detected using the microphone, and The management server further comprises a circuit configured to execute: A linking function is configured to link the unique identifier to the installation location.

7. The system of claim 6 , wherein the circuitry included in each networked device in the set of networked devices is further configured to perform: The sound emitting function is configured to emit a predetermined response sound using a speaker in the networked device when the predetermined sound is detected.

8. The system of claim 6 , wherein the predetermined sound comprises a first frequency and a second frequency, and wherein when the predetermined sound is emitted, the portable device is located closer to the installation location than to all other installation locations of the set of networked devices, wherein the circuitry included in the management server is further configured to: a ratio acquisition function configured to acquire a corresponding ratio between the amplitude of the predetermined sound at the first frequency and the amplitude at the second frequency detected in each networked device, and a proximity determination function configured to determine a networked device among the networked devices that is closest to the portable device based on the determined corresponding ratios, The linking function is configured to link the unique identifier of the networked device determined to be closest to the portable device to the installation location.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the circuitry included in each networked device in the set of networked devices is further configured to perform: a ratio determination function configured to, upon detecting the predetermined sound, determine the corresponding ratio between the amplitude of the predetermined sound detected in the networked device at the first frequency and the amplitude at the second frequency; and a ratio sending function configured to send the determined corresponding ratio to the management server, in, The ratio acquisition function is configured to receive the corresponding ratio.

10. The system of claim 8, wherein the circuitry included in each networked device in the set of networked devices is further configured to perform: a sound sending function configured to send a representation of the detected predetermined sound to the management server when the predetermined sound is detected, and The ratio deriving function is configured to determine the corresponding ratio between the amplitude of the predetermined sound detected in each networked device at the first frequency and the amplitude at the second frequency.

11. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having instructions stored thereon, for implementing the method according to claim 1 when the instructions are executed by the system according to claim 6.

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