Visual ear picking management system and method based on Internet of Things

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of computer manufacturing such as cloud platforms and the Internet of Things, in particular to a visual ear picking management system and method based on the Internet of Things. The system comprises an ear acquisition imaging gun, a 4G communication remote control box, a background management cloud server and a mobile phone WeChat applet. The ear-collecting imaging gun is used for collecting and displaying ear cavity images; the 4G communication remote control box comprises an embedded processor and a 4G communication module, and is used for receiving a start-stop instruction sent by the background management cloud server and controlling the on-off of the ear-acquisition imaging gun; the background management cloud server is used for receiving an equipment use request from a mobile phone WeChat applet, executing account fee deduction and service duration control and generating an equipment start-stop instruction; the mobile phone WeChat applet is used for user login, service selection and equipment use request sending. According to the system, remote start-stop control and automatic charging management of the ear-picking equipment are realized, and the intelligence and safety of ear-picking service are improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to cloud platforms, the Internet of Things and other computer manufacturing technologies, as well as the manufacturing of digital creative technology equipment, intelligent consumer devices such as virtual reality and digital technology playback devices, and particularly to a visual ear-collecting management system and method based on the Internet of Things. Background Technology

[0002] Existing ear-cleaning equipment is mostly a standalone unit, relying on manual button control for starting and stopping, and cannot interact with the internet or back-end systems. Due to the lack of remote control and unified management mechanisms, service personnel must manually start and stop each device individually, making centralized management and standardized operation and maintenance difficult. This model is particularly inefficient in chain stores or multi-workstation scenarios, not only increasing labor costs but also easily leading to problems such as forgetting to turn off equipment, inaccurate billing, and uncontrolled service durations, seriously affecting service safety and management reliability. The above content is only for assisting in understanding the technical solution of this invention and does not represent an admission that the above content is prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to address the problem that the start and stop of ear-cleaning equipment in the prior art rely entirely on manual operation and lack remote intelligent control and automated management mechanisms. It provides a visualized ear-cleaning management system and method based on the Internet of Things, aiming to realize remote start and stop control of the ear-cleaning imaging gun and information management of the service process, thereby ensuring operational safety while achieving automation, controllability and traceability of ear-cleaning services.

[0004] A visualization-based ear-cleaning management system based on the Internet of Things is characterized by comprising: an ear-cleaning imaging gun, a 4G communication remote control box, a back-end management cloud server, and a WeChat mini-program.

[0005] The ear-cleaning imaging gun is used to collect and display images of the inside of the ear canal in real time. It has a built-in high-definition camera and display screen. The camera is electrically connected to an external control box via a six-hole aviation plug and is used to output video signals and receive control signals. The 4G communication remote control box includes an embedded digital processor, a 4G communication module, and a video conversion module. The embedded digital processor controls the power supply to and from the ear-cleaning imaging gun according to instructions from the cloud server. The 4G communication module establishes communication with the backend management cloud server via an IoT platform. The video conversion module converts the video signal output by the ear-cleaning imaging gun into an analog signal and transmits it to a display. The backend management cloud server is used to receive user operation requests from the WeChat mini-program on mobile phones, and to perform account verification, deduction management, service duration control, and device start / stop command generation. The backend management cloud server has an account level management and service billing module, which corresponds to different rates according to account level. The backend management cloud server has a countdown control module, which automatically generates and sends a shutdown control command when the countdown ends. The WeChat mini program is used to enable user interaction and has functions such as QR code login, service selection, account query and service countdown display. After the user confirms the use of the service, the mini-program sends a usage request to the cloud server; after verifying the payment, the cloud server sends a power-on control command to the 4G communication remote control box; after receiving the command, the 4G control box controls the ear-cleaning imaging gun to start, completes the acquisition and display of ear cavity images; after the service countdown ends, the cloud server automatically sends a power-off command to control the ear-cleaning imaging gun to turn off.

[0006] The six-pin aviation connector includes six pins for power positive, negative, video output, signal ground, control input, and device identification. The control input enables power on / off control via level signals.

[0007] The 4G communication remote control box is equipped with a dual timing mechanism: a cloud-based countdown timer as the primary mechanism and a local timing timer in the control box as a redundancy mechanism. When a communication interruption or failure to respond within a timeout is detected, a safe shutdown is automatically executed.

[0008] The background management cloud server and the control box communicate using the MQTT protocol. Downlink topics are used to send control commands, and uplink topics are used to report device status.

[0009] The backend management cloud server also includes a log storage module, which is used to record service items, deducted amounts, service duration, and device status change information.

[0010] The WeChat mini-program on the mobile phone has a renewal function, which allows users to add time before the countdown ends. The cloud server updates the remaining service time based on the addition request and sends a delay instruction.

[0011] The ear-cleaning imaging gun has a built-in temperature sensor. When the detected temperature exceeds a preset threshold, the control box will perform an over-temperature protection shutdown.

[0012] The backend management cloud server uses HTTPS and token verification mechanisms to authenticate requests from the mini-program client, preventing unauthorized control.

[0013] The control box converts the video signal from the ear-cleaning imaging gun into a standard 1Vpp / 75Ω CVBS analog signal through a video buffer amplification circuit to ensure image transmission stability.

[0014] The system also includes an anomaly detection module. When the ear-collecting imaging gun goes offline, the heartbeat times out, or the video signal is lost, the cloud server automatically issues a shutdown command and records the anomaly log.

[0015] A visual ear-collecting management method based on the Internet of Things, characterized by the following steps: Preliminary steps: After the control box is powered on, it registers with the IoT platform via the 4G module to establish a secure connection with the backend cloud server; Binding steps: Administrators scan the QR code of the ear cleaning device via WeChat mini program to complete the binding of the device to the store account; Login steps: Users log in to their accounts on the mini-program, and the server verifies the account level and balance information; Order placement steps: The user selects the service item and duration, the cloud server calculates the cost based on the account level and performs the deduction operation, generating a service order and target duration; Power-on steps: The cloud server sends a power-on control command to the 4G communication control box through the IoT platform, and the control box sends a start signal to the ear-collecting imaging gun; Service steps: The ear-cleaning imaging gun is activated, acquiring images of the ear canal and displaying them on the screen in real time; the cloud server starts the service countdown. Timing steps: The cloud server periodically monitors the countdown progress and receives heartbeat packets from the control box; if a disconnection is detected, the local timing redundancy mechanism of the control box is activated. Renewal steps: Before the countdown ends, users can send a renewal request through the mini-program, and the cloud server will update the remaining time and reissue the control command. Shutdown procedure: When the countdown reaches zero or a shutdown request is received, the cloud server issues a shutdown command, and the control box performs a power-off operation to shut down the ear-collecting imaging gun; Synchronization steps: The control box reports the usage duration and status, the cloud server updates the order status and displays the service completion prompt and billing information on the mini-program.

[0016] The communication between the cloud server and the control box uses the MQTT over TLS protocol, and the commands are signed to prevent replay attacks.

[0017] The control box in the method is equipped with a local countdown protection. When the communication interruption exceeds a preset time threshold T, the power-off operation is automatically performed.

[0018] The system abnormal events include: network disconnection, heartbeat loss, video signal interruption, and over-temperature warning. Detecting any of these events will trigger a safe shutdown process.

[0019] The log records include: order number, device number, user ID, service duration, deduction amount, and instruction execution status, which are used for subsequent auditing and reconciliation.

[0020] The beneficial effects of this invention are: The implementation of this invention not only improves the controllability and safety of ear-cleaning equipment but also significantly enhances the management efficiency of chain stores. The system achieves standardized operation and maintenance of ear-cleaning services through centralized cloud control and IoT communication. The backend management cloud server can simultaneously manage multiple 4G communication remote control boxes and ear-cleaning imaging guns, enabling real-time monitoring of equipment status, remote start / stop, and automatic billing. Users can clearly view the remaining service time, cost, and equipment status, making the service process transparent and traceable. In summary, this invention achieves intelligent, information-based, and automated control of ear-cleaning services, effectively solving the problems of low efficiency, insufficient security, and high operating costs in traditional ear-cleaning management systems, and has significant practical value and promising prospects for promotion. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 This is a schematic block diagram of the overall system structure of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 2 This is a schematic flowchart of the method steps of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the signal flow for the execution steps of the method of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0024] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention. It is understood that the accompanying drawings are provided for reference and illustration only, and are not intended to limit the present invention. The connection relationships shown in the accompanying drawings are only for clear description and do not limit the connection method.

[0025] Existing ear-cleaning services largely rely on manual operation and traditional monitoring methods, lacking IoT-based visual management tools. Traditional ear-cleaning equipment is typically a standalone unit, unable to interact with the internet or mobile systems. Service records and billing depend heavily on manual registration, resulting in low management efficiency, difficulty in controlling service duration, and a poor user experience. Furthermore, even existing equipment with camera capabilities often uses independent display structures, failing to achieve unified backend management. Administrators cannot remotely control equipment startup and shutdown, nor can they monitor equipment status and service progress in real time. This necessitates operators manually operating each device, wasting manpower and increasing the risk of missed shutdowns or inaccurate billing. For example, some existing ear imaging devices are activated via local buttons, failing to link with user accounts and order information, making it difficult to meet the intelligent management needs of standardized chain stores.

[0026] To address the aforementioned problems, this invention provides a visualized ear-cleaning management system and method based on the Internet of Things (IoT) to solve issues such as manual operation of ear-cleaning equipment, fragmented billing processes, insufficient communication security, and uncontrollable equipment operation status in existing technologies. The core objective of this invention is to achieve remote start / stop control of ear-cleaning equipment and automatic linkage between user accounts and order information. This is achieved by establishing a multi-level communication link between a mobile WeChat mini-program, a backend management cloud server, and a 4G communication remote control box, realizing information-based closed-loop control of the ear-cleaning service process. This invention further solves the communication security problem of equipment control, ensuring prevention of command forgery, disconnection errors, and timing anomalies in the IoT transmission environment. Simultaneously, the system, through the collaborative linkage of the user end, device end, and backend end, forms a complete business closed loop from login, billing, start / stop control to bill generation, realizing fully automated and intelligent management of the ear-cleaning service process. Specifically: like Figures 1-3 As shown, an IoT-based visual ear-collecting management system includes: an ear-collecting imaging gun, a 4G communication remote control box, a WeChat mini-program, and a backend management cloud server. Among them: Ear-cleaning imaging gun, used to acquire and display images of the ear cavity; A 4G communication remote control box includes an embedded processor and a 4G communication module. The 4G communication remote control box is used to receive device start / stop commands and control the power supply of the ear-collecting imaging gun. The WeChat mini-program is used by users to log in, select services, and send device usage requests to the backend management cloud server. The background management cloud server is used to receive the device usage request, execute account deduction and service duration control, and generate and send the device start / stop command to the 4G communication remote control box according to the device usage request.

[0027] Preferably, the ear-cleaning imaging gun is electrically connected to the 4G communication remote control box via a six-hole aviation plug, for simultaneously transmitting video signals and control signals, and for supplying power to the ear-cleaning imaging gun.

[0028] Preferably, the background management cloud server includes a countdown control module, which is used to automatically generate and send a device start / stop command to the 4G communication remote control box to shut down the ear-cleaning imaging gun when the service duration ends.

[0029] Preferably, an encrypted communication connection is established between the background management cloud server and the 4G communication remote control box via the Transport Layer Security (TLS) protocol, and the device start / stop command carries a digital signature and sequence number information for verification and idempotent execution.

[0030] Preferably, the 4G communication remote control box includes a local countdown module and periodically sends heartbeat messages to the background management cloud server. When the background management cloud server does not receive the heartbeat message within a preset timeout period, the 4G communication remote control box automatically executes control to shut down the ear-cleaning imaging gun based on the local countdown module.

[0031] A visual ear-collecting management method based on the Internet of Things includes the following steps: User operation steps: The user logs into their account via WeChat mini-program on their mobile phone and sends a device usage request to the backend management cloud server; Cloud processing steps: The background management cloud server receives the device usage request, executes account deduction, and generates device start / stop instructions for starting the ear-cleaning imaging gun; Equipment execution steps: The 4G communication remote control box receives the device start / stop command for starting the ear-cleaning imaging gun and controls the ear-cleaning imaging gun to start. Ear cleaning service steps: The ear cleaning imaging gun captures images of the ear cavity and displays them on the screen in real time, while the background management cloud server starts the service countdown; Shutdown procedure: When the service countdown ends or a shutdown request is received, the background management cloud server generates a device start / stop command for shutting down the ear-cleaning imaging gun and sends it to the 4G communication remote control box. The 4G communication remote control box then shuts down the ear-cleaning imaging gun to complete a single service.

[0032] Preferably, a pre-operation step is included before the user operation steps: after the 4G communication remote control box is powered on, it registers with the Internet of Things platform through the 4G module and establishes an encrypted communication connection with the background management cloud server; The process includes a binding step after the pre-processing steps and before the user operation steps: the administrator scans the QR code of the 4G communication remote control box with a WeChat mini-program on their mobile phone to complete the binding of the 4G communication remote control box with the store account. The process includes a login step after the binding step and before the user operation step: the user logs in to their account via the WeChat mini program on their mobile phone, and the backend management cloud server verifies the account level and account balance information.

[0033] Preferably, an order placement step is included between the user operation steps and the cloud processing steps: the user selects the service item and service duration in the WeChat mini program on their mobile phone, the background management cloud server calculates the fee according to the account level and completes the deduction, and generates a service order and target duration parameters; After the ear-cleaning service step and before the power-off step, a timing monitoring step is also included: the background management cloud server periodically monitors the service countdown progress and receives heartbeat messages from the 4G communication remote control box. When a communication drop is detected, the local timing redundancy mechanism of the 4G communication remote control box is activated.

[0034] Preferably, a renewal step is included between the timing monitoring step and the shutdown step: when the service countdown has not ended, the user sends a renewal request through the WeChat mini program on their mobile phone, and the background management cloud server updates the remaining time and sends a device start / stop command to the 4G communication remote control box to extend the service time. The shutdown step also includes a synchronization step: after the ear-cleaning imaging gun is turned off, the 4G communication remote control box reports the usage time and device status, and the background management cloud server updates the order status and displays the billing information on the WeChat mini program on the mobile phone.

[0035] Preferably, the communication between the pre-step and the login step adopts the Transport Layer Security (TLS) protocol, and the device start / stop command interaction between the background management cloud server and the 4G communication remote control box adopts token or digital signature verification. The heartbeat message includes the device power status and timestamp information. When the background management cloud server does not receive the heartbeat message within the preset heartbeat timeout threshold, it triggers an exception and instructs the 4G communication remote control box to perform control to turn off the ear-collecting imaging gun. In the synchronization step, the billing information includes the service item, the amount deducted, the service duration, the device number and the order number, and is persistently stored by the back-end management cloud server for auditing and reconciliation.

[0036] After adopting the solution of this invention, the backend management cloud server can execute account deduction and generate device start / stop commands after receiving a device usage request from a WeChat mini-program. The 4G communication remote control box receives this command and controls the power supply to and from the ear-cleaning imaging gun, thereby achieving remote control and automatic start / stop. While the ear-cleaning imaging gun is acquiring and displaying ear cavity images in real time, the backend management cloud server starts a service countdown. When the countdown ends or a shutdown request is received, the backend management cloud server generates another device start / stop command to shut down the ear-cleaning imaging gun. Through the above mechanism, a secure and closed-loop control path is formed between the user and the backend.

[0037] This system can complete IoT registration and secure connection of the 4G communication remote control box in the pre-processing stage. During operation, it uses a heartbeat mechanism to detect disconnections and implement local redundant timing, ensuring precise and controllable service duration. During service, users can send renewal requests via a WeChat mini-program on their mobile phones. The backend management cloud server updates the service duration in real time and reissues control commands. After service completion, the 4G communication remote control box reports usage duration and status information, and the backend management cloud server synchronously generates billing information and displays it on the mini-program, achieving automatic settlement. The system uses the Transport Layer Security (TLS) protocol during communication and employs digital signatures or token mechanisms to ensure the security of command interactions, thereby preventing forgery and replay attacks.

[0038] The implementation of this invention not only improves the controllability and safety of ear-cleaning equipment but also significantly enhances the management efficiency of chain stores. The system achieves standardized operation and maintenance of ear-cleaning services through centralized cloud control and IoT communication. The backend management cloud server can simultaneously manage multiple 4G communication remote control boxes and ear-cleaning imaging guns, enabling real-time monitoring of equipment status, remote start / stop, and automatic billing. Users can clearly view the remaining service time, cost, and equipment status, making the service process transparent and traceable. In summary, this invention achieves intelligent, information-based, and automated control of ear-cleaning services, effectively solving the problems of low efficiency, insufficient security, and high operating costs in traditional ear-cleaning management systems, and has significant practical value and promising prospects for promotion.

[0039] The entire system solution can be understood as a comprehensive management platform integrating "visualized ear cleaning, IoT remote control, intelligent billing, and mobile interaction." The system comprises an ear cleaning imaging gun, a communication control box, an IoT cloud platform and backend management server, and a WeChat mini-program for the user. The system's structural design and functional logic work together to ensure the security of ear services, the visualization of operations, the intelligence of device management, and the convenience of the user experience.

[0040] Before use, the ear-cleaning imaging gun is connected to the communication control box via a six-pin aviation connector. Some pins are used for power supply and video signal transmission, while others transmit equipment start / stop control signals. The imaging gun contains a high-definition camera and a display screen. The camera's resolution is typically between one and five million pixels, and it features a ring light to create a clear image inside the ear canal. The real-time video signal captured by the camera is converted into an analog signal by the video converter circuit within the control box before being output to the display, ensuring that on-site personnel can observe the condition inside the ear canal in real time.

[0041] The communication control box integrates an embedded digital processor and a 4G communication module. The 4G module connects to a cloud server via an IoT platform, enabling remote communication and control of the device. Upon receiving start / stop commands from the cloud, the control box uses the digital processor to control the power MOSFET or relay circuit to power on / off the imaging gun, thus achieving remote power-on and power-off. The control box also maintains a heartbeat mechanism and local timing function. In the event of network anomalies or cloud disconnection, it can still safely shut down the device based on a local countdown, ensuring operational safety and billing consistency.

[0042] The IoT platform and the back-end management server constitute the core control and information processing center of the system. The cloud server is responsible for storing and managing user account information, service item information, and device operating status. User account data includes account level and balance information, while service item information includes the billing standards and corresponding service durations for different types of ear cleaning services. The server communicates with the mini-program via HTTPS or WebSocket, receiving login, service selection, and start requests from the user client; simultaneously, it sends start and stop commands to the control box via MQTT or TCP protocols. The server initiates the timing logic simultaneously with the power-on command, and sends the power-off command after the set duration is reached. If network delays or abnormal interruptions occur during the timing process, the server will confirm the device status through a status comparison mechanism after communication is restored to avoid duplicate charges or erroneous operations.

[0043] The WeChat mini-program on the user side serves as the system's human-computer interaction interface, handling functions such as login verification, service selection, account inquiry, and real-time information display. After scanning a QR code to enter the system and logging in with their account information, the system displays available services and their corresponding fees. Once the user selects a service and confirms payment, the mini-program sends the account information, service item, and device number to the cloud server. After the server completes the payment verification, it generates a control command and sends it to the control box via the IoT channel, automatically activating the ear-cleaning imaging gun. Throughout the service process, the mini-program displays a countdown and account balance changes in real time. After the service ends, it synchronously displays the service record, ensuring users can clearly understand the costs and usage details.

[0044] To ensure reliable system operation in complex environments, the solution incorporates a dual-timekeeping protection mechanism and a command signature verification mechanism. The dual-timekeeping mechanism means that both the cloud and the local control box maintain a timer simultaneously. When either reaches its time limit, a shutdown operation is triggered, ensuring timely service termination even during network instability. The command signature verification uses encryption algorithms to verify control commands sent from the cloud, preventing illegal commands or duplicate execution and ensuring the security of remote control.

[0045] Through the coordinated operation of the above modules, the system can automatically start and stop the ear-cleaning equipment, manage the duration, and settle the payment after the user completes scanning and payment. This digitizes, visualizes, and automates the ear-cleaning service, which previously relied on human experience and manual management. The entire solution has significant advantages over traditional methods in terms of security, management efficiency, and user experience.

[0046] In detail: The system's overall structure consists of an ear-cleaning imaging gun, a 4G communication remote control box, an IoT and back-end management cloud server, and a WeChat mini-program client. These components form a data loop via the network, completing the entire process from user operation to device execution and result feedback. In the system, after a user issues an operation request on the WeChat mini-program, the data is transmitted to the cloud server or IoT platform via HTTPS, and then transmitted to the control box via MQTT or TCP through the 4G network. The control box then controls the operation of the ear-cleaning imaging gun and the display terminal through GPIO, relays, and video conversion circuits. The real-time status of the device is uploaded back to the cloud and returned to the mini-program via WebSocket or HTTPS, creating a two-way control channel of "request-execution-feedback."

[0047] The ear-cleaning imaging gun is the system's visual execution terminal, internally equipped with a camera and display unit for real-time imaging and presentation of the ear canal. The camera's pixel count can be selected from one to five million, with a frame rate of twenty to sixty frames per second, a field of view of seventy to one hundred and twenty degrees, and close-range focusing capability of five to thirty millimeters. A ring light is arranged around the gun body, using high color rendering index LEDs with a color temperature between four thousand and six thousand Kelvin, and employing a PWM dimming method of two hundred to two thousand Hz to avoid visual flicker. The imaging gun uses a six-pin aviation connector for unified connection of video, power supply, and control signals. In the connector's pin design, pins one and two are for twelve-volt DC power supply, pin three is the analog video output terminal (using CVBS1Vpp / 75Ω signal format, which can also be replaced with MIPI or USB interface in other embodiments), pin four is the video ground, pin five receives start / stop signals from the control box, and pin six can be used as a probe identification or temperature detection signal line, facilitating system expansion of identification functions. The imaging gun's electromagnetic protection meets the ±8kV air gap discharge standard, and the housing has IPX4 splash-proof performance. The video ground and the housing ground are isolated from each other to avoid signal interference caused by circulating current.

[0048] The 4G communication remote control box is the core of the system's execution and communication. It contains an embedded digital processor and a 4G communication module that supports LTE Cat-1 or Cat-4 networks, has a SIM or eSIM interface, and assigns a unique DeviceID or IMEI number to each device. The control box's power input is DC 12 to 24 volts, outputting a regulated 12-volt, 3-amp power supply to the imaging gun. In terms of specific control methods, the processor can drive MOSFETs or relays via GPIO to control the on / off state of the imaging gun's power supply, or it can control the enable pin of the DC / DC converter module to achieve synchronous power-on. If the imaging gun outputs a digital signal, the control box integrates a video decoding or encoding bridge circuit to convert the USB camera signal into a CVBS or VGA analog signal output; if the output is an analog signal, the control box internally performs 75-ohm termination matching, low-pass filtering, and buffer amplification to ensure the signal conforms to the electrical specifications of the display. To improve system stability, the control box is equipped with local fault tolerance mechanisms, including a watchdog function that automatically executes a timeout shutdown after a 30-60 second heartbeat timeout in the cloud, and a dual-timer mechanism synchronized with the cloud. When the cloud timer reaches 10 minutes, a local countdown of 10 minutes plus 5-10 seconds is set to ensure timely shutdown even in the event of a network outage. Control commands must be verified by sequence number and timestamp before execution. Execution only occurs after the sequence number increments and the signature verification passes, preventing duplicate or forged commands. All communication is encrypted using TLS 1.2 or 1.3 protocol, and command signing uses a token mechanism based on HMAC-SHA256. If verification fails, execution is rejected and reported to the cloud.

[0049] The IoT platform and the backend management cloud server together form the brain of the system, undertaking core functions such as device access, communication management, account management, and billing settlement. Devices establish encrypted communication channels via the MQTT protocol, with downlink topics named "iot / DeviceID / cmd" and uplink topics named "iot / DeviceID / stat". Clients make requests via HTTPS interfaces, and real-time push is achieved through WebSocket channels. Control commands issued by the server are encapsulated in standard JSON data format. For example, power-on commands include serial number, command type, service duration, order number, and timestamp, along with a digital signature. Power-off commands include the shutdown reason and timestamp, while the status data returned by the device includes command confirmation number, device status, and time information. The cloud determines the billing coefficient based on the user's account level; for example, ordinary users, members, and VIP users correspond to rates of 1x, 0.9x, and 0.8x respectively. When a user places an order, the system first freezes the corresponding balance, then deducts fees in segments based on duration or in a lump sum, and automatically shuts down the device when the timer expires. If the service is abnormally interrupted, settlement is based on the actual usage time reported by the device. To ensure data consistency between the cloud and devices, the system employs a strategy of cloud-based primary timing and local backup timing. When an order status progresses through stages such as "creation, payment, running, completion, or termination," both parties automatically synchronize based on the reported status. The server stores all operation logs, including user ID, device number, instruction sequence number, timestamp, and signature digest, for subsequent traceability and dispute resolution.

[0050] WeChat Mini Programs serve as the primary entry point for user interaction with the system. Users bind their devices by scanning a QR code containing the device's unique identifier and verification information. The Mini Program uses OAuth authentication for login, and the system generates a session token for the user upon login. Device binding requires administrator authorization or one-time PIN verification to prevent unauthorized control. After entering the interface, users can select different ear-cleaning services, which display the corresponding rates and estimated duration. Payment is deducted upon confirmation. Once the device is started, the Mini Program displays a real-time countdown, with the countdown data pushed synchronously from the cloud. If a user wishes to terminate or extend the service midway, they can send a command via the "Stop" or "Renew" button, and the system will generate the corresponding shutdown or extension command. The Mini Program also features an error message mechanism. In cases of disconnection, insufficient balance, device occupancy, or video lock failure, a unified error code will be displayed for user understanding and troubleshooting.

[0051] Through the above structural design and operational logic, the entire system achieves a closed-loop process from user-initiated operation to device response, from video acquisition to visualization display, and from remote communication to automatic billing. Ear cleaning services no longer rely on manual judgment and control, but instead achieve safe, accurate, and efficient operation through networked and intelligent device collaboration.

[0052] In another embodiment, the steps of the visual ear-cleaning management method are as follows: Preliminary steps: Device online and registration; After the control box is powered on, it connects to the IoT platform via the 4G module, completes TLS handshake and authentication using the device certificate, reports HELLO and firmware version, and enters IDLE state to standby.

[0053] Binding steps: The device is associated with the store account; the administrator scans the device QR code or enters the DeviceID in the mini program, and after cloud verification, the binding is completed in the "store / room / workstation" dimension, generating a device control permission table and access token.

[0054] Login steps: User login and balance verification; Users log in via the mini-program using OAuth, and the cloud retrieves the account level and balance, displaying available service items and corresponding rates, estimated duration and deduction rules.

[0055] Order placement steps: Select the service and freeze the deduction; the user confirms the project and duration, the cloud calculates the amount payable based on the rate, if the balance is sufficient, it will be frozen or deducted immediately, create an order CREATED→PAID, and generate order_id and target duration_s.

[0056] Power-on command steps: The cloud sends an activation command; the cloud sends a POWER_ON command (including seq, order_id, duration_s, and signature) via MQTT (TLS), and switches RUNNING on the order side and starts the cloud countdown timer.

[0057] Startup steps: The control box is idempotently powered on and feedback is provided; after the control box passes the signature and serial number verification, the GPIO is pulled high / the relay is closed to power on the imaging gun, and video switching is enabled at the same time; after initialization is completed, stat: OK and the local redundant countdown start value are reported.

[0058] Service steps: Image display and status maintenance; imager captures data and displays it on the screen; the control box reports a heartbeat (including voltage, temperature / video lock status) every 10–30 seconds, and the cloud and mini-program refresh the countdown in real time. If the user clicks "Pause / Abort", the cloud immediately sends POWER_OFF(reason:"user_abort").

[0059] Renewal steps (optional): Extend duration online; Before the countdown reaches zero, users can add duration in the mini-program; After the cloud completes the deduction, send EXTEND_TIME or resend POWER_ON(duration_s+=Δ), and the control box updates the local countdown after verifying the increment of seq.

[0060] Anomaly handling steps: protection against disconnection and unauthorized access; if the cloud detects a device heartbeat timeout or the control box detects an MQTT link breakage exceeding the threshold T (30–60s), the control box will execute a safe shutdown when its local redundancy timer reaches zero; duplicate / expired / signature-incorrect instructions will be rejected and an error_code will be reported, and the cloud will set the order to ABORT and calculate the actual duration.

[0061] Shutdown procedure: Automatically terminate service; when the cloud countdown reaches zero, send POWER_OFF(reason:"timeout"), the control box performs a power cut and reports OFF_ACK; if the cloud is unreachable, the local redundant countdown will also be cut off when it reaches zero, ensuring "consistent shutdown upon reaching the timeout".

[0062] Settlement and synchronization steps: Recording and reconciliation; The control box returns the final usage_s, which the cloud uses to verify against the order's target duration, generating a consumption record (item, amount, duration, timestamp, device number) and synchronizing it to the user's account; The mini-program pops up a "Service Completed" message and bill details, and electronic vouchers can be downloaded.

[0063] Dual timing addresses the risk of "failure to shut down on time" due to network instability, ensuring consistency between security and billing. Commands with serial numbers and signatures prevent replay and forgery, ensuring idempotency and security for remote control. The CVBS solution for video uses a universally available analog interface (CVBS1Vpp / 75Ω), enabling rapid display implementation without relying on a specific SoC; it can also be replaced with a digital link.

[0064] This invention addresses the problems of manual operation control, low management efficiency, and untraceable service processes in existing technologies by proposing a technical solution that enables remote communication, automatic start / stop control, and information-based billing management. This solution allows for unified control and service process management of ear-cleaning equipment within an IoT communication environment, significantly improving system intelligence and service stability.

[0065] Compared with existing technologies, this invention has the following advantages: By introducing a 4G communication remote control box with communication and control functions at the device end, and establishing a collaborative mechanism between a background management cloud server and a mobile WeChat mini-program in the system architecture, remote start / stop control and service process management of the ear-cleaning imaging gun can be realized. While ensuring communication security, the system supports account deduction, service duration control, and order synchronization updates, achieving a closed-loop process from user login to device control to bill generation. Through multi-level linkage and heartbeat detection mechanisms, the system can maintain operational continuity during network fluctuations and synchronize device status and bill information after service completion, thereby significantly improving the security, controllability, and automation level of ear-cleaning services.

[0066] Finally, it should be noted that the above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art can still modify the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments or make equivalent substitutions for some of the technical features. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An Internet of Things based visual ear management system, characterized by, The ear imaging gun is used for collecting and displaying ear cavity images. The 4G communication remote control box includes an embedded processor and a 4G communication module, and is used for receiving device start-stop instructions and controlling the on-off of the ear imaging gun. The mobile phone WeChat applet is used for user login, service selection, and sending device use requests to the background management cloud server. The background management cloud server is used for receiving the device use requests, performing account deduction and service duration control, and generating and issuing the device start-stop instructions to the 4G communication remote control box according to the device use requests. The ear imaging gun is electrically connected to the 4G communication remote control box through a six-hole aviation plug, used for simultaneously transmitting video signals and control signals, and supplying power to the ear imaging gun. The background management cloud server includes a countdown control module, which is used for automatically generating and issuing device start-stop instructions for turning off the ear imaging gun to the 4G communication remote control box when the service duration ends.

2. The IoT-based visual earpick management system according to claim 1, wherein, An encrypted communication connection through the Transport Layer Security (TLS) protocol is established between the background management cloud server and the 4G communication remote control box, and the device start-stop instructions carry digital signatures and serial number information for verification and idempotent execution.

3. The IoT-based visual earpick management system according to claim 2, wherein, The 4G communication remote control box includes a local countdown module and periodically sends heartbeat messages to the background management cloud server. When the background management cloud server does not receive the heartbeat messages within a preset timeout period, the 4G communication remote control box automatically executes control for turning off the ear imaging gun based on the local countdown module.

4. The IoT-based visual earpick management system according to claim 3, wherein, The following steps are included:

5. The IoT-based visual earpick management system according to claim 4, wherein, User operation step: the user logs in to the account through the mobile phone WeChat applet and sends a device use request to the background management cloud server; 6. An Internet of Things-based visual ear picking management method, characterized by, Cloud processing step: the background management cloud server receives the device use request, performs account deduction, and generates device start-stop instructions for starting the ear imaging gun; Device execution step: the 4G communication remote control box receives the device start-stop instructions for starting the ear imaging gun and controls the ear imaging gun to start; Ear service step: the ear imaging gun collects ear cavity images and displays them in real time on the display screen, while the background management cloud server starts the service countdown; Shutdown step: when the service countdown ends or a shutdown request is received, the background management cloud server generates device start-stop instructions for turning off the ear imaging gun and issues them to the 4G communication remote control box, which turns off the ear imaging gun to complete a single service. The pre-step before the user operation step includes: after the 4G communication remote control box is powered on, it registers with the Internet of Things platform through the 4G module and establishes an encrypted communication connection with the background management cloud server; The binding step after the pre-step and before the user operation step includes: the administrator scans the two-dimensional code of the 4G communication remote control box through the mobile phone WeChat applet to complete the binding of the 4G communication remote control box and the store account. 7.The IoT-based visual earpick management method of claim 6, wherein, ​ ​ The method further comprises a login step after the binding step and before the user operation step: the user logs in the account in the mobile WeChat applet, and the account level and account balance information are checked by the background management cloud server. 8.The IoT-based visual earpick management method of claim 7, wherein, The method further comprises an order placing step between the user operation step and the cloud processing step: the user selects the service item and service duration in the mobile WeChat applet, the background management cloud server calculates the fee according to the account level and completes the deduction, generates a service order and target duration parameter; The method further comprises a timing monitoring step after the ear picking service step and before the shutdown step: the background management cloud server monitors the service countdown progress and receives the heartbeat message from the 4G communication remote control box, and when the communication is detected to be offline, the local timing redundancy mechanism of the 4G communication remote control box is enabled. 9.The Internet-of-Things based visual earpick management method according to claim 8, wherein, The method further comprises a fee extension step between the timing monitoring step and the shutdown step: when the service countdown is not over, the user sends a fee extension request through the mobile WeChat applet, the background management cloud server updates the remaining duration and issues a device start-stop instruction to the 4G communication remote control box to extend the service duration; The method further comprises a synchronization step after the shutdown step: the 4G communication remote control box reports the usage duration and device status after the ear picking imaging gun is turned off, the background management cloud server updates the order status and displays the billing information in the mobile WeChat applet. 10.The Internet-of-Things based visual earpick management method according to claim 9, wherein, The communication between the pre-step and the login step adopts the Transport Layer Security (TLS) protocol, and the device start-stop instruction interaction between the background management cloud server and the 4G communication remote control box adopts token or digital signature verification; The heartbeat message contains device power state and timestamp information, and the background management cloud server triggers abnormal processing and instructs the 4G communication remote control box to execute the control for turning off the ear picking imaging gun when the heartbeat message is not received within the preset heartbeat timeout threshold; In the synchronization step, the billing information includes service item, deduction amount, service duration, device number and order number, and is stored persistently by the background management cloud server for auditing and reconciliation.

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