Method and arrangement for establishing a wireless connection between a device and a Bluetooth-enabled terminal device

Abstract

Method for establishing a wireless connection between at least one device (10) and a mobile Bluetooth-enabled terminal device (13) comprising a mobile application (12) and the low-energy protocol stack, wherein the mobile application (12) is configured and set up for communication (15) between the device (10) and the Bluetooth-enabled terminal device (13), wherein the device (10) comprises a Bluetooth-enabled transmit / receive unit comprising the low-energy protocol stack, and the transmit / receive unit is designed and configured to transmit / receive data within a defined transmit / receive range (14), comprehensively the steps: Repeated transmission of a control signal (11) by the transmitting / receiving unit of the device (10), automatic connection of the transmit / receive unit to the terminal device (13) according to the low-energy protocol stack as soon as the Bluetooth-enabled terminal device (13) is within the transmit / receive range (14), automatic opening of the mobile application (12) on the terminal device (13) by means of the control signal (11) in order to establish communication (15) between the mobile application (12) and the device (10), provided that the control signal (11) has been received by the terminal device (13).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method for establishing a wireless connection between at least one device and a mobile Bluetooth-enabled terminal device comprising a mobile application and the low-energy protocol stack.

[0002] Furthermore, the invention relates to an arrangement for establishing a wireless connection between at least one device and a mobile Bluetooth-enabled terminal device comprising a mobile application and the low-energy protocol stack.

[0003] Such methods and arrangements are known, for example, from EP 3 382 977 B1 or US 2019 / 0037612 A1 and are always used when a connection is to be established between two Bluetooth-enabled devices. If a connection is to be established between an end device, such as a smartphone, tablet PC, or smartwatch, and another Bluetooth-enabled device, a mobile application must regularly be opened on the end device, or a number of steps must be initiated to control the device using the end device or to establish communication between the two devices. Such communication between devices is important for many processes, for example, to ensure that the device may be operated based on existing security measures such as age verification.

[0004] Document US 2017 / 0354183 A1 discloses an electronic cigarette with a Bluetooth module. This module transmits information about the cigarette's output power and a user's smoking data to another Bluetooth-enabled device. To configure the other device to receive this information, a corresponding program or app must first be installed on the device.

[0005] Many wireless consumer products, such as fitness trackers and smart home gadgets, require the user to install a mobile application on their smartphone and then pair the mobile application with the wireless device. After the initial pairing of the mobile application with the wireless device, the user's smartphone is also paired. The paired devices can then communicate with each other, i.e., exchange data and execute signals or processes on each other. The relationship between the device, the mobile application, and the smartphone then remains active unless the user chooses to ignore this device in the smartphone's Bluetooth settings.

[0006] Communication or the connection between a Bluetooth-enabled device and a mobile application on a user's device can be handled via various protocols. The most popular protocol today is Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), which uses a GATT service to exchange or synchronize information between the device and the user's mobile application. For synchronization between a BLE device and a mobile application to occur, the user must reliably perform a series of steps to ensure the processes function correctly. It must be ensured that the user's device (e.g., the smartphone) is switched on and that the latest versions of the respective programs are installed. The Bluetooth-enabled device must also be switched on.To control applications on the device using the mobile device, the mobile application must also be opened, and the device and the mobile application must be paired or connected. These four conditions must be met for successful communication between the two devices, especially to synchronize the Bluetooth-enabled device with a mobile application.

[0007] Mobile operating systems from major providers support automatic background synchronization between a wireless device and the application, meaning when the application is not in the foreground and without the user having to activate the synchronization function. Currently, only applications certified as health and fitness apps by the two leading operating systems can take advantage of background synchronization, albeit on a limited basis. To improve mobile phone battery life, the battery management systems of the two major operating systems use a proprietary algorithm to prioritize functions; third-party applications always have a lower priority than native functions. Therefore, scheduled synchronizations from third-party applications are frequently interrupted or canceled, leading to frequent data gaps and even data loss.Data loss occurs, for example, when the device's memory is full and new data is generated, but cannot be saved.

[0008] The aforementioned method of communication between Bluetooth-enabled devices and end devices leads to a number of disadvantages. While the individual steps are generally not complex, they are tedious and, above all, time-consuming. For this reason, many users frequently neglect or forget to synchronize their wireless, Bluetooth-enabled devices with their end devices (e.g., smartphones) in a timely manner. This can result in, for example, outdated programs on the devices, which can lead to errors in device operation or on the devices themselves.

[0009] Communication between a wireless device and a mobile application is crucial, for example, to ensure the device has the latest firmware, enabling secure and reliable operation and providing valuable features to both the user and the manufacturer. These features include the ability to control device settings, monitor device performance, analyze user behavior and consumption, and remotely control the device. Above all, reliable and consistent communication between the wireless device and the mobile application is essential for offering new digital services to both the user and the manufacturer.In this way, manufacturers can offer and refine digital business models, while users can access the latest features of their devices, which can be installed and activated via software updates. These services are also known as Software as a Service (SaaS).

[0010] If users neglect to regularly synchronize their device with the mobile application, data gaps arise, meaning information is missing on the device and / or in the mobile application. When information is missing, the device can become a security risk, many relevant services become unavailable, and the product's value can decrease. A lack of synchronization can therefore be detrimental to both the device manufacturer / provider and the user. To obtain complete and accurate data from Bluetooth-enabled devices, some manufacturers reward users for consistent manual synchronization. The user must turn on the device, open the application, pair it with their device, and manually activate the synchronization function. This requires user commitment and discipline; the user can, for example, be rewarded with incentives.The more often it synchronizes, the more rewards it receives. Another approach is to avoid synchronization via the end device by connecting the device directly to a network using, for example, GSM, LoRa, or SigFox technology, through which synchronization would then take place. However, this method is expensive because (a) additional electronic components such as an eSIM are required, (b) a more powerful battery is needed to support the transmission function, and (c) the user must subscribe to a monthly data plan with a mobile network operator.

[0011] Many electronic devices are subject to measures to prevent uncontrolled use, such as age verification, or to prevent further use in the event of manufacturer recalls. Continued use of these devices can lead to health problems in some areas. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that users are not exposed to health risks when using the devices and that they are authorized to do so. This is particularly important in the case of medical devices and e-cigarettes, where it must be ensured and documented that the device may be used.

[0012] It is therefore an object of the present invention to propose a method that ensures largely automated, secure, and convenient data synchronization between a Bluetooth-enabled device and an end device comprising a mobile application, and that enables the establishment of a wireless connection. Furthermore, the object is to propose a corresponding arrangement.

[0013] The problem is solved by a method with the aforementioned features in that the mobile application is designed and configured for communication between the device and the Bluetooth-enabled terminal device, wherein the device comprises a Bluetooth-enabled transmit / receive unit comprising the low-energy protocol stack, and the transmit / receive unit is designed and configured to send / receive data within a defined transmit / receive range, and the method according to the invention comprises the following steps: repeatedly sending a control signal by the transmit / receive unit of the device, automatically connecting the transmit / receive unit to the terminal device according to the low-energy protocol stack as soon as the Bluetooth-enabled terminal device is within the transmit / receive range, and automatically opening the mobile application on the terminal device by means of the control signal.to establish communication between the mobile application and the device, provided the control signal has been received by the terminal device. The method according to the invention offers a number of advantages. For example, by repeatedly sending the control signal, signals are continuously transmitted from the device, which, upon receipt by the terminal device containing a mobile application, automatically enable communication between the device and the terminal device. In this way, time-consuming and sometimes complex steps in the desired communication between the device and the terminal device or the application of a terminal device can be avoided. This simplifies communication on the one hand and saves time in establishing a connection or setting up communication on the other. The associated communication, which can also be referred to as synchronization,In particular, the synchronization between the device and the terminal device or mobile application leads to absolute data integrity between the device and the terminal device. This eliminates the need for the user to otherwise require independent communication between the devices or data synchronization. Advantageously, this allows data to be sent between the device and the terminal device or mobile application without requiring any further external transmission or authentication steps. The solution according to the invention ensures that a Bluetooth-enabled device and a mobile application or terminal device with a mobile application pair automatically and thereby reliably and promptly synchronize information, data, settings, and firmware automatically and without user intervention, or communicate for data transmission. This preferably occurs whenever...when new data is available, i.e., during or immediately after the intended use of the device. The invention is therefore unique in that it is fully automated and requires no user intervention. Furthermore, it does not rely on the functionality of a native operating system, such as iOS or Android functionality, which makes it reliable and cross-platform.

[0014] For the purposes of this invention, "device" means any electrically operated device, also called an appliance, designed and configured to establish a wireless connection. The device could therefore be, for example, a coffee machine, an e-cigarette, an inhaler, etc. The devices have corresponding components that enable the establishment of a wireless connection and include at least one Bluetooth-enabled transmit / receive unit comprising the Low Energy protocol stack. Such components can be integrated into a single unit or be separate components.

[0015] In the context of the invention, "wireless connection" or "connection" essentially refers to receiving control signals and establishing a connection between the device and the terminal device. Communication is preferably only possible through this established connection. "Communication" or "communicating" essentially refers to the data exchange / synchronization between the devices, preferably via the mobile application.

[0016] The "Bluetooth-enabled transmit / receive unit comprising the Low Energy protocol stack" is also known as a BLE unit, where BLE stands for the Bluetooth Low Energy protocol. The BLE of the device or endpoint explicitly includes localization standards, such as those implemented using iBeacon.

[0017] The term "mobile, Bluetooth-enabled device comprising the low-energy protocol stack" refers to all portable or stationary devices designed and configured to run a mobile application and supporting the Bluetooth standard, particularly BLE. Examples include smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, computers, etc., which fall under the category of mobile, Bluetooth-enabled devices comprising the low-energy protocol stack. Portable devices are preferred because they allow for location-independent use of the method according to the invention. For the sake of simplicity, the "mobile, Bluetooth-enabled device comprising the low-energy protocol stack" will also be referred to as Bluetooth-enabled device, mobile device, device, or the like, but each term refers to a mobile, Bluetooth-enabled device comprising the low-energy protocol stack.

[0018] The "mobile application" within the meaning of the invention is to be understood, in particular, as a companion application or mobile companion application, and is also known as such; that is, it is an application that is designed for the specific end device and not just any application. For example, end device X can only open the mobile application (companion application) for X. The "mobile application" is also referred to simply as an application or app. A "mobile application" is defined as application software for mobile devices or mobile operating systems. In particular, the term "mobile application" regularly includes "the mobile, Bluetooth-enabled end device comprising the low-energy protocol stack."

[0019] The "defined transmit / receive range" of the "transmit / receive unit" is determined on the one hand by the technical specifications of the transmit / receive unit and on the other hand by the low-energy protocol stack. This means that such modules or protocols are designed to transmit / receive data within a defined range. iBeacon modules, for example, can achieve a range of up to 30 meters. However, the range can preferably be divided into different categories depending on the signal strength to the device, thereby triggering different actions or signals. For example, a distinction into four range categories is conceivable: a) unknown distance (unknown), b) immediate (up to 50 cm), c) close (up to 2 m), or d) far (up to 30 m).

[0020] A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that, prior to the initial automatic connection of the transmitting / receiving unit with the terminal device, the terminal device and the device are paired in a prior authentication step. This ensures that the device or the mobile application establishes an automatic connection only with the correspondingly authenticated mobile application or device. This prevents the data from being passed on to unauthorized parties or read by unauthorized third parties. The pairing process thus includes the corresponding authentication between the device and the mobile application.In this way, the user only needs to pair the two modules to be connected once to automatically establish a connection between the devices, provided the device and the mobile application have completed the pairing process. The device and the mobile device preferably remain paired until the pairing is revoked. Ideally, the pairing and the automatic connection of the devices can be disconnected at any time.

[0021] A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the mobile application is opened by means of the control signal, particularly when the mobile application is completely closed on the terminal device. "Completely closed" specifically means that the mobile application is neither running in the foreground nor in the background on the terminal device, i.e., that the mobile application is no longer running in the terminal device's cache. In this way, the establishment of the wireless connection between the device and the terminal device is possible at any time, regardless of the current availability of the mobile application, which is only opened automatically in a subsequent step. In an advantageous embodiment, the opening of the mobile application can take place in the background without requiring an active opening of the mobile application.This leads to significantly higher acceptance and user-friendliness of such mobile applications, as well as a greater range of functions for both the device and the mobile application.

[0022] A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the sending / receiving of the control signal is based on a Bluetooth profile from the low-energy protocol stack, in particular GATT. This enables standardized data exchange without requiring deep access to the integrated operating systems of the end devices. Such a protocol is regularly implemented across platforms in existing components, particularly in currently available transceiver units, thus facilitating easy integration between different manufacturers or operating systems.

[0023] A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the communication between the device and the mobile application is based on a wireless connection between the device and the terminal device, in particular on a radio standard such as Bluetooth, WLAN, ZigBee, NFC, RFID, Wibree, WiMAX, or mobile communication. More preferably, several of the above connections can be executed simultaneously or sequentially to ensure reliable data transmission. In a particularly preferred embodiment, communication takes place via the existing transmitter / receiver unit according to the Bluetooth protocol. The different radio standards can be used depending on the nature of the data to be transmitted, with a standard that supports high data rates being automatically selected when high data rates are expected.The data exchange between the device and the mobile application is preferably bidirectional. This makes it possible to control certain selected functions of the device using the mobile device and / or to transmit information from the device to the mobile device. This information could, for example, include operating instructions for the device, where it is crucial that the user has acknowledged these instructions in a verifiable manner. Optionally, the mobile device can report back to the device via Bluetooth that the user has received this information, thus documenting it. In this way, the data can be analyzed promptly and in a high-quality format to gain valuable insights.This allows both users and manufacturers to monitor product performance, track usage patterns of the device, and remotely control the device.

[0024] A further advantageous embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the mobile application, opened by the control signal, performs one or more of the following actions: comparison of the device's operating data between an actual value and a target value; execution of the device according to its specifications, provided the actual value matches the target value of the operating data; receipt of operating data with the target value by the device from the mobile application and / or from the terminal device, provided the actual value deviates from the target value of the operating data, in order to establish the target value of the operating data on the device; blocking of device-related actions, provided the actual value deviates from the target value of the operating data, in order to prevent the intended use of the device; documentation of the actual value and / or the target value of the operating data in the mobile application and / or on the device.The comparison process enables continuous monitoring of actual and target states, ensuring that the data being compared is always up-to-date. Ideally, the control signal triggers a data synchronization between the device and the end device. If one or more data pairs do not match, the provided measures prevent potentially harmful use, or alternatively, document that the user has used the device despite the actual data not matching the target data. This allows users of the device to take advantage of new, attractive services and business models at any given time, made available in real time via data provided by the mobile application.This also enables the manufacturers of the device to develop new business models, thereby opening up new and more diverse sources of income.

[0025] According to a further preferred embodiment, the operating data includes firmware data for performing intended actions on the device. The transferability of the operating data or firmware data ensures the transmission of data necessary for the basic functionality of the device. This data is essential for executing or operating the device. The transferability of this data ensures that the device is always equipped with the latest software for its operation. This extends the device's service life, enables the unlocking of more extensive functionalities, and provides a means, for example, of providing security updates at short notice.

[0026] A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized by the fact that the device is wirelessly controlled via the mobile device using the mobile application. In other words, the mobile application is configured such that data, preferably bidirectional, can be exchanged between the mobile device and the device. This makes it possible to control certain selected functions of the device using the mobile device and / or to transmit information from the device to the mobile device. This information could, for example, include instructions for operating the device, for which it is of great importance that the user has acknowledged them in a verifiable manner. Optionally, the fact that the user has acknowledged this information can be reported back to the device via Bluetooth and thus documented.The control can also include all functions, such as starting or stopping the device when entering or leaving the transmit / receive range, or preheating components of the device.

[0027] Furthermore, the problem is solved by a corresponding arrangement with the aforementioned features in that the mobile application is configured and set up for communication between the device and the Bluetooth-enabled terminal device, wherein the device comprises a Bluetooth-enabled transmit / receive unit comprising the low-energy protocol stack, and the transmit / receive unit is configured and set up to send / receive data within a defined transmit / receive range, and wherein the transmit / receive unit is configured to repeatedly send a control signal in order to automatically connect the transmit / receive unit to the terminal device according to the low-energy protocol stack as soon as the Bluetooth-enabled terminal device is within the transmit / receive range, and is configured to automatically open the mobile application on the terminal device by means of the control signal.to establish communication between the mobile application and the device, provided the control signal has been received by the terminal device.

[0028] To avoid repetition, reference is made to the advantages already described in detail in connection with the inventive method. These advantages also apply analogously to the inventive arrangement described below.

[0029] Another advantageous embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the device and / or the terminal device are designed and configured to couple the terminal device and the device for authentication purposes before the initial automatic connection of the transmitting / receiving unit to the terminal device.

[0030] Further training is characterized by the fact that the transmitting / receiving unit is trained and set up so that the sending / receiving of the control signal is based on a Bluetooth profile from the low-energy protocol stack, in particular GATT.

[0031] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the device and the terminal device are designed and configured to communicate with each other on the basis of a wireless connection, in particular on a radio standard such as Bluetooth, WLAN, ZigBee, NFC, RFID, Wibree, WiMAX, mobile communications.

[0032] A further advantageous embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the mobile application is designed and configured to perform one or more of the following measures: comparing the operating data of the device between an actual value and a target value; executing the device according to its specification, provided the actual value matches the target value of the operating data; receiving operating data with the target value from the mobile application and / or from the terminal device, provided the actual value deviates from the target value of the operating data, in order to establish the target value of the operating data on the device; blocking device actions, provided the actual value deviates from the target value of the operating data, in order to prevent the intended use of the device; documenting the actual value and / or the target value of the operating data in the mobile application and / or on the device.

[0033] A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the operating data of the device includes firmware data for performing intended actions on the device.

[0034] Another advantageous embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the terminal device is designed and configured to control the device by means of the mobile application.

[0035] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the device is an inhaler designed for inhaling an active ingredient released from an inhalation medium. Preferably, core functions of the inhaler can be conveniently controlled via the mobile device. Furthermore, it is possible to wirelessly transmit operating parameters of the inhaler to the mobile device. This ensures that the user only uses an inhaler that contains the most up-to-date data, e.g., software for operating / running the inhaler, before the inhaler is activated for use. The inhaler in question can be either a medical inhaler or an e-cigarette or components thereof. An e-cigarette is particularly preferred as the inhaler.

[0036] The method is particularly advantageous when carried out with an inhaler and / or with an arrangement according to one or more of claims 9 to 16.

[0037] Further expedient and / or advantageous features and developments of the method and the arrangement are set forth in the dependent claims and the description. Particularly preferred embodiments are explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings show the Fig. 1 to Fig. 9 schematic representations to illustrate the steps of the method and arrangement according to the invention.

[0038] The basic steps of the inventive method for establishing a wireless connection between at least one device 10 and a mobile Bluetooth-enabled terminal device 13 comprising a mobile application 12 and the low-energy protocol stack are described below. Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5 to Fig. 6 is explained below. The mobile application 12 or the terminal device 13 is designed and configured for communication 15 between the device 10 and the Bluetooth-enabled terminal device 13. In the figures, the Bluetooth-enabled terminal device 13 is shown as an example of a smartphone. This representation serves only for illustration. Of course, the terminal device 13 is not limited to the smartphone shown, but rather includes any terminal device 13 that includes a mobile application 12 and is designed and configured to communicate with a corresponding device 10 based on the low-energy protocol stack. The mobile application 12 is not shown in detail in the figures, but is simplified primarily as the white screen of the Bluetooth-enabled terminal device 13. The mobile application 12 is not limited in its design or functionality; the basic functionality of the communication 15 or...Synchronization is based on the mobile application 12. The device 10 according to the invention comprises a Bluetooth-enabled transmit / receive unit comprising the low-energy protocol stack, and the transmit / receive unit is configured to send / receive data within a defined transmit / receive range. In the accompanying figures, the device 10 is shown by way of example in the form of an inhaler. This representation serves only for illustration. Of course, the device 10 is not limited to the inhaler shown, but rather includes any device 10 that in any case comprises a Bluetooth-enabled transmit / receive unit comprising the low-energy protocol stack (not shown in the figures). The transmit / receive unit can be integrated externally or internally within the device 10.Preferably, the transmitting / receiving unit is configured to act as an iBeacon device. For this purpose, the iBeacon protocol is implemented in the transmitting / receiving unit. As described in... Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the device 10 sends out a control signal 11, which is, for example, a broadcast message.

[0039] The method according to the invention comprises the steps of repeatedly sending the control signal 11 by the transmitting / receiving unit of the device 10, as described in Fig. 1 is shown. As soon as the Bluetooth-enabled device 13 is within the transmit / receive range 14 (see Fig. 2) is located, an automatic connection of the transmitting / receiving unit of the device 10 with the terminal device 13 takes place according to the low-energy protocol stack, which is in the Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 is shown schematically. The mobile application 12 then opens automatically on the terminal device 13 (see Fig. 5) by means of the control signal 11 to establish communication 15 between the mobile application 12, 13 and the device 10, provided that the control signal 11 has been received by the terminal device 13 (see Fig. 4) The communication 15 between the device 10 and the mobile application 12 or the terminal device 13 is in the Fig. Figure 6 shows data exchange. The arrows indicate that data can be transferred from device 10 to terminal 13, and that data can also be transferred between terminal 13 and device 10, i.e., sending and / or receiving data is possible.

[0040] Fig. Figure 7 schematically shows that preferably the device 10 and / or the terminal device 13 are designed and configured to pair the terminal device 13 and the device 10 for authentication purposes before the initial automatic connection of the transmitting / receiving unit to the terminal device 13. During this process, for example, the device 10 sends a request message via Bluetooth to the terminal device 13 asking whether it is permitted to send application programs or data to the terminal device 13. If the mobile terminal device 13 sends a confirmation message, the device 10 is paired with the terminal device 13 via Bluetooth. The authentication process can particularly preferably include further steps, such as the entry of matching codes, to increase security during the pairing process. The relationship orThe coupling 16 between device 10, mobile application 12 and terminal device 13 is preferably maintained to ensure automatic connection in the future.

[0041] It is further preferred, as in the Fig. Figure 5 shows that the mobile application 12 is opened by means of the control signal 11, particularly when the mobile application 12 is completely closed on the terminal device 13. For the method according to the invention, it is irrelevant whether the screen of the terminal device 13 is unlocked during the process; what is essential is that the mobile application 12 is opened by the control signal 11, thereby establishing an automatic connection between the device 10 and the terminal device 13. Based on this automatic connection, communication 15 is then possible, for example, data synchronization.

[0042] Preferably, the transmit / receive unit is designed and configured such that the transmission / receiving of the control signal 11 is based on a Bluetooth profile from the low-energy protocol stack, in particular GATT. Alternatively, the transmission / receiving of the control signal 11 can also be based on a different Bluetooth profile or by means of an independent data transmission standard.

[0043] Advantageously, the device 10 and the terminal 13 are designed and configured to communicate with each other on the basis of a wireless connection, in particular on a radio standard such as Bluetooth, WLAN, ZigBee, NFC, RFID, Wibree, WiMAX, or mobile communications. The wireless connection or communication 15 is in Fig. Figure 6 illustrates this. Depending on the available wireless connections of the connected devices, a preferred wireless connection can be established. The established connection then enables data synchronization between the device 10 and the terminal device 13 or the mobile application 12, which preferably also occurs automatically after the automatic connection process.

[0044] In the method according to the invention, the mobile application 12, opened by the control signal 11, preferably performs one or more of the following actions. A comparison of the operating data of the device 10 between an actual value and a target value is performed; that is, it is checked whether the data for executing the device 10 corresponds to a target value, in other words, whether the operating data is up to date. If this is not the case, an error message can, for example, be displayed on the device 10 and / or on the terminal device 13 / the mobile application 12. The operating data can be essential or optional data for executing the device 10, and thus, in particular, (operating) software.

[0045] The operating data may also include data generated by the device 10 or the terminal device 13, which must be cross-referenced, e.g., age or authentication verifications as well as data on the use of the device 10, particularly relevant for time restrictions on the use of the device 10. Preferably, the operating data also includes firmware data for performing intended actions on the device 10.

[0046] Provided the actual value of the operating data matches the target value, the device 10 can be operated according to its specifications. Another measure could be for the device 10 to receive operating data with the target value from the mobile application 12 and / or the terminal device 13 if the actual value deviates from the target value, in order to bring the target value of the operating data to the device 10. Alternatively or additionally, a measure could consist of blocking actions involving the device 10 if the actual value deviates from the target value, in order to prevent the intended use of the device 10. This could be achieved, for example, by means of further (mechanical) elements or software solutions not shown in the figures.Another measure could be the documentation of the actual and / or target values ​​of the operating data in the mobile application 12 and / or on the device 10. All or only some of the above measures may be implemented or present, depending on the design and legal requirements.

[0047] Preferably, the device 10 is wirelessly controlled via the terminal device 13 using the mobile application 12, as described in the Fig. Figure 9 is shown. The data transmitted to the device 10 via the mobile application 12 of the terminal device 13 includes control signals 17 to control the device 10. These control signals 17 can be used, for example, to reproduce signals on the device 10, to preheat the device 10 or components thereof, or to perform other interactions specific to the respective device 10.

[0048] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the method for establishing a wireless connection comprises the following steps and specifications. The terminal device 13 is hereinafter referred to as a smartphone, and the low-energy protocol stack comprises the iBeacon software. a) The iBeacon software is installed on a wireless device 10. b) The smartphone is switched on. c) The mobile application 12 can be switched off. d) The smartphone's Bluetooth communication is switched on. e) The wireless device 10 is switched on. f) The wireless device 10 has data for sharing with the mobile application 12. g) The wireless device 10 sends a control signal 11 (iBeacon message) and requests the previously paired smartphone to connect. h) The smartphone is moved within range of the iBeacon of device 10. i) The control signal 11 (iBeacon message) opens the mobile application 12. j) The mobile application 12 automatically connects to the wireless device 10. k) The mobile application 12 initiates a bidirectional synchronization with the device 10 using GATT services.

[0049] For this to work, the (companion) smartphone is within range of the device 10. Device 10 and the smartphone pair automatically. The control signal (iBeacon message, broadcast message) is received by the smartphone and interpreted as a command to open the mobile (companion) application 12. Subsequently, the mobile application 12 is preferably opened upon receiving the control signals 11 and automatically connects to the paired device 10. The mobile application 12 then switches the communication protocol to BLE and initiates GATT services to send / receive data with the device 10.

[0050] The present invention also relates to the invention described in the Fig. 2, Fig. 3, Fig. 4, Fig. 5, Fig. 6, Fig. 7, Fig. 8 to Fig. The arrangement shown in Figure 9 comprises a device 10 and a mobile Bluetooth-enabled terminal 13 with a mobile application 12. The terminal 13 includes the low-energy protocol stack, and the device 10 comprises a Bluetooth-enabled transmit / receive unit comprising the low-energy protocol stack. The advantages resulting from this arrangement have already been described in connection with the method according to the invention; therefore, reference is made to the relevant passages to avoid repetition.

[0051] Preferably, the device 10 is an inhaler designed and configured for inhaling an active ingredient released from an inhalation medium. According to the invention, the core functions of such an inhaler are conveniently and safely controllable via the mobile device 13. The device 10, designed as an inhaler, is configured such that, for example, operating data can be wirelessly transmitted between the inhaler and the mobile device 13 or the mobile application 12, and / or settings of such data can be configured or preset via the mobile device 12.

[0052] All embodiments previously described in connection with device 10 are also applicable to other BLE-enabled and compatible products, such as headphones, electric toothbrushes, medical devices or the like.

Claims

[1] Method for establishing a wireless connection between at least one device (10) and a mobile Bluetooth-enabled terminal device (13) comprising a mobile application (12) and the low-energy protocol stack, wherein the mobile application (12) is configured and set up for communication (15) between the device (10) and the Bluetooth-enabled terminal device (13), wherein the device (10) comprises a Bluetooth-enabled transmit / receive unit comprising the low-energy protocol stack, and the transmit / receive unit is designed and configured to transmit / receive data within a defined transmit / receive range (14), comprehensively the steps: Repeated transmission of a control signal (11) by the transmitting / receiving unit of the device (10), automatic connection of the transmit / receive unit to the terminal device (13) according to the low-energy protocol stack as soon as the Bluetooth-enabled terminal device (13) is within the transmit / receive range (14), automatic opening of the mobile application (12) on the terminal device (13) by means of the control signal (11) in order to establish communication (15) between the mobile application (12) and the device (10), provided that the control signal (11) has been received by the terminal device (13). [2] Method according to claim 1, characterized by , that prior to the first automatic connection of the transmit / receive unit to the terminal (13), the terminal (13) and the device (10) were paired together in a previously performed authentication step (16). [3] Method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by, that the mobile application (12) is opened by means of the control signal (11), especially when the mobile application (12) is completely closed on the terminal device (13). [4] Method according to one or more of claims 1 to 3, characterized by , that the sending / receiving of the control signal (11) is based on a Bluetooth profile from the low-energy protocol stack, in particular GATT. [5] Method according to one or more of claims 1 to 4, characterized by , that the communication (15) between the device (10) and the mobile application (12) is based on a wireless connection between the device (10) and the terminal device (13), in particular on a radio standard such as Bluetooth, WLAN, ZigBee, NFC, RFID, Wibree, WiMAX, mobile communications. [6] Method according to one or more of claims 1 to 5, characterized by, that the mobile application (12) opened by the control signal (11) performs one or more of the following actions: - Comparison of operating data of the device (10) between an actual value and a target value, - Operating the device (10) according to its specification, provided that the actual value matches the target value of the operating data, - Receiving operational data by the device (10) with the target value from the mobile application (12) and / or from the terminal device (13), if the actual value deviates from the target value of the operational data, in order to bring about the target value of the operational data on the device (10), - Blocking device-related actions if the actual value deviates from the target value of the operating data in order to prevent the intended use of the device (10), - Documenting the actual value and / or the target value of the operating data in the mobile application (12) and / or on the device (10). [7] Method according to claim 6, characterized by , that the operating data includes firmware data for performing intended actions on the device (10). [8] Method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by , that the device (10) is wirelessly controlled via the terminal device (13) using the mobile application (12). [9] Arrangement for establishing a wireless connection between at least one device (10) and a mobile Bluetooth-enabled terminal (13) comprising a mobile application (12) and the low-energy protocol stack, wherein the mobile application (12) is configured and set up for communication (15) between the device (10) and the Bluetooth-enabled terminal (13), wherein The device (10) comprises a Bluetooth-enabled transmit / receive unit comprising the low-energy protocol stack, and the transmit / receive unit is configured and set up to send / receive data within a defined transmit / receive range (14), and wherein the transmit / receive unit is configured to repeatedly send a control signal (11) to automatically connect the transmit / receive unit to the terminal device (13) in accordance with the low-energy protocol stack as soon as the Bluetooth-enabled terminal device (13) is within the transmit / receive range (14), and is configured to automatically open the mobile application (12) on the terminal device (13) by means of the control signal (11) in order to establish communication (15) between the mobile application (12) and the device (10), provided that the control signal (11) has been received by the terminal device (13). [10] Arrangement according to claim 9, characterized by, that the device (10) and / or the terminal (13) are designed and configured to couple the terminal (13) and the device (10) for authentication purposes prior to the first automatic connection of the transmit / receive unit to the terminal (13) (16). [11] Arrangement according to claim 9 or 10, characterized by , that the transmit / receive unit is designed and configured to transmit / receive the control signal (11) on the basis of a Bluetooth profile from the low-energy protocol stack, in particular GATT. [12] Arrangement according to one or more of claims 9 to 11, characterized by , that the device (10) and the terminal device (13) are designed and configured to communicate with each other on the basis of a wireless connection (15), in particular on a radio standard such as Bluetooth, WLAN, ZigBee, NFC, RFID, Wibree, WiMAX, mobile communications. [13] Arrangement according to one or more of claims 9 to 12, characterized by, that the mobile application (12) is trained and configured to perform one or more of the following actions: - Comparison of the operating data of the device (10) between an actual value and a target value, - Operating the device (10) according to its specification, provided that the actual value matches the target value of the operating data, - Receiving operational data by the device (10) with the target value from the mobile application (12) and / or from the terminal device (13), if the actual value deviates from the target value of the operational data, in order to bring about the target value of the operational data on the device (10), - Blocking device-related actions if the actual value deviates from the target value of the operating data in order to prevent the intended use of the device (10), - Documenting the actual value and / or the target value of the operating data in the mobile application (12) and / or on the device (10). [14] Arrangement according to claim 13, characterized by , that the operating data of the device (10) includes firmware data for performing intended actions on the device (10). [15] Arrangement according to one or more of claims 9 to 14, characterized by , that the terminal device (13) is trained and configured to control the device (10) using the mobile application (12). [16] Arrangement according to any one of claims 9 to 15, characterized by , that the device (10) is an inhaler designed for inhaling an active substance released from an inhalation medium.

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