Network device, method for forming a device network and device network

Abstract

A network device is provided. The network device includes an interaction detection module (2) configured to detect an event of a physical interaction between the network device (1) and a second network device (1') and to provide interaction data relating to the physical interaction. The network device further includes a wireless communication module (3) for communicating with other network devices and a control module (4) configured to evaluate the interaction data received from the interaction detection module (2) and to configure the network device (1) for network communication, at least partially, based on the interaction data. A method for forming a device network and a device network itself are also provided.

Description

[0001] The technical field of the present application relates generally to network devices. In particular, the present disclosure relates to a network device, a method for forming a device network, and a device network.

[0002] Both networked or networkable devices and device networks with two or more networked devices, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), are known. To join a network, network devices typically need to be commissioned or configured accordingly.

[0003] Identifying and configuring network devices can be a time-consuming and tedious process. Furthermore, this process often requires additional equipment such as picking tools, QR scanners, smartphones, or other devices, making the process of setting up a device network even more difficult and prone to errors.

[0004] The aim of this application is to provide a particularly convenient and user-friendly method for forming a device network.

[0005] According to a first aspect, a network device is provided. A network device is defined here as a network-enabled device, in particular a smart device, that can communicate with other communication-enabled devices in order to join or form a network of devices, e.g., an Internet of Things.

[0006] The network devices in this context can include, but are not limited to, LED drivers (light-emitting diodes), push buttons, control panels, sensors, etc.

[0007] The network device includes an interaction detection module configured to detect an event of physical interaction between the network device (hereinafter referred to as the first network device) and another network device (hereinafter referred to as the second or target network device). The second network device may be configured as a network-enabled device with similar network capabilities to the first network device. The interaction detection module is also configured to provide interaction data related to the physical interaction, particularly after its detection.

[0008] The network device also includes a wireless communication module for communication with other network devices. Furthermore, the network device may include one or more wired or wireless communication modules, in particular a main or central communication module for communication with other devices on the network, based on one or more communication protocols such as Zigbee, BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy), Wi-Fi, DALI, 2.4G Wireless, PLC (Power Line Communication), etc. Bluetooth is a registered trademark of the Bluetooth Special Interest Group. Zigbee is a registered trademark of the Zigbee Alliance. Wi-Fi is a registered trademark of the Wireless Fidelity Alliance. DALI (Digital Addressable Lighting Interface) is a registered trademark of the International Standardization Consortium for lighting and building automation networks.

[0009] The network device also includes a control module that is configured to evaluate the interaction data received from the interaction detection module and to configure the network device, at least partially, based on the interaction data.

[0010] Configuring the network device can include configuring it to join an existing device network or creating a new one. It can also include commissioning the network device to join a device network.

[0011] The interaction detection module can be configured, in particular, to detect physical interaction between network devices. In some embodiments, the interaction detection module is configured to identify the detected interaction and forward the interaction data and / or information about the identified interaction to the control module. Specifically, the interaction detection module can be configured to forward the interaction data to the control module immediately or without delay when it detects an interaction between one network device and another.

[0012] The control module can be configured to manage the commissioning and configuration status of the network device. Similarly, the second or target network device can include an interaction detection module, a communication module, and a control module, with the control module of the second network device being configurable to manage the commissioning and configuration status of the second Manages network devices.

[0013] The control modules of the first and second network devices can also be configured to exchange all network-related information necessary for initiating and completing the commissioning and / or configuration of the network devices. This allows the network devices to receive mutual parameters to perform further commissioning actions.

[0014] This allows network devices to be connected to each other and / or to other network devices and configured to build a network.

[0015] The commissioning and configuration of the devices can be triggered solely by the physical interaction of the two devices, without the need for additional equipment or tools. This makes setting up device networks particularly convenient for the user.

[0016] Furthermore, by individually coupling different devices, a large number of network devices can be commissioned to form a multi-device network.

[0017] The interaction detection module can be configured to detect physical contact or direct physical interaction between the network device and the second network device. Thus, simply bringing the two devices together can initiate the pairing, configuration, and commissioning process. The contact that the interaction detection module can detect can include, in particular, devices bumping into each other, devices sticking together, devices rubbing against each other, etc.

[0018] The interaction detection module can be configured, in particular, to detect tapping on the network device, the network device sticking to another network device for a predefined minimum time, e.g., three seconds, and / or rubbing of the network devices. Specifically, the interaction detection module can be configured to detect light or even minor tapping and / or rubbing of the network devices without posing a significant risk of damage to the network devices.

[0019] The interaction detection module can comprise at least one interaction detection system with at least one interaction detection sensor. The interaction detection sensors can include one or more knock, collision, and / or adhesion sensors, in particular one or more sensors for magnetic detection, collision detection, accelerometers, and / or gyroscopes.

[0020] The control module can be configured to instruct the wireless communication module to send interaction event information, search for the presence of the second (target) device, and initiate a handshake with the second device. The handshake between the first network device and the second, or target, network device ensures a smooth and reliable pairing of the first and second network devices.

[0021] The control module can be configured to search for an existing device network and initiate the creation of a new network if no network is detected.

[0022] Especially in the event that no device network is available, the first network device and the second network can initially form a two-device network, to which further devices can be added and which can subsequently be expanded.

[0023] The control module can be configured to send a message to the second device requesting it to join the new or newly created network. Specifically, the control module can instruct the communication module to send the network device's network information to the target device in order to join the new network once the handshake is complete.

[0024] In some embodiments, the network device includes a power supply module to provide electrical power to the interaction detection module, the control module, and the at least one communication module. Thanks to the power supply module, if the network device is configured as an AC-powered device, it can be configured through physical interaction even when the network device is disconnected from the mains.

[0025] According to a second aspect, a method for forming a device network is provided. The method includes providing a first network device and a second network device. The first and second network devices can be configured according to the first aspect. In particular, each of the first and second network devices can include an interaction detection module configured to detect an event of physical interaction between the first and second network devices. The first and second network devices can also include at least one wireless communication module and a control module as described above.

[0026] The procedure further includes the detection of a physical interaction event. The physical interaction can be detected, in particular, by the interaction detection module of the first network device and / or the second network device.

[0027] The method also includes sending interaction data relating to the physical interaction, in particular to the control module of the first network device and / or the second network device. Specifically, the interaction data can be sent from the interaction detection module of the first network device and / or the second network device to the respective control module after the physical interaction has been detected.

[0028] The procedure further includes evaluating the interaction data and configuring the first network device and / or the second network device, at least partially, based on the interaction data. The evaluation of the interaction data can be performed by the control module of the first or second network device.

[0029] Configuring the first and / or second network device may include configuring the first and / or second network device to join an existing device network or to create a new device network. Configuration may also include commissioning the first and / or second network device to join a device network.

[0030] This method allows devices to be picked or configured solely through the physical interaction of the two devices, without requiring any additional equipment or tools. This makes setting up or expanding device networks particularly convenient for the user.

[0031] The process can include initiating a handshake between the first and second network devices when physical interaction between them is detected. This handshake ensures smooth and reliable pairing between the two devices.

[0032] According to a third aspect, a device network is provided. The device network comprises a number of network devices, in particular at least two network devices, wherein the device network includes at least one network device as described in the first aspect. The device network can be easily expanded by the network device described in the first aspect, by configuring and commissioning additional devices solely through physical interaction with the network device.

[0033] The following description provides details for describing the embodiments of this specification. However, it will be clear to a person skilled in the art that the embodiments can also be implemented without such details.

[0034] Some parts of the embodiments have similar parts. The similar parts may have the same names or similar part numbers. The description of one part may refer to another similar part, thereby avoiding repetition of text without limiting the disclosure. Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic block diagram of a network device according to one embodiment, Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic block diagram of two network devices according to one embodiment. Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic block diagram of a network device according to one embodiment, Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic block diagram of a network device according to another embodiment, Fig. Figure 5 shows an example of the implementation of the procedure for a device network according to one embodiment, Fig. Figure 6 shows an example of the implementation of the method for a device network according to another embodiment, and Fig. Figure 7 shows a flowchart of a method for forming a device network according to one embodiment.

[0035] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic block diagram of a network device according to one embodiment. The network device 1 is a configurable network-enabled device that is capable of joining device networks or establishing a new network when configured and / or commissioned accordingly.

[0036] The network device 1 includes in particular an interaction detection module 2, a wireless communication module 3 and a control module 4.

[0037] The interaction detection module 2 is configured to detect a physical interaction between network device 1 and another network device.

[0038] The interaction detection module 2 is further configured to transmit interaction data relating to the physical interaction to the control module 4.

[0039] The wireless communication module 3 is configured for communication with other network devices. Depending on the embodiment, the network device 1 may include more than one communication module, in particular a main or central communication module, e.g., for communication based on one or more communication protocols such as NFC (Near Field Communication), Zigbee, BLE, Wi-Fi, DALI, 2.4G Wireless, PLC, etc.

[0040] In particular, the wireless communication module 3 can be configured to be used temporarily, especially only or exceptionally, for device detection and information exchange when an interaction event occurs, until the main communication module takes over communication with other devices within the network.

[0041] The wireless communication module 3 can, for example, be a standalone communication module, e.g., a built-in NFC reader and an NFC chip that is separate from the main communication module.

[0042] In some embodiments, the function of the communication module 3, in particular the temporary exchange of information, is performed by the main communication module of the IoT device, such as Bluetooth or Zigbee.

[0043] The communication module 3 of the network device 1 can be configured, in particular, to send event and network information and to exchange network and other essential information with the respective target device or interaction partner.

[0044] The control module 4 can include a processor and a memory unit for storing data and machine-readable instructions for the processor. The control module 4 can also have an interface for communication, in particular for exchanging data with the interaction detection module 2 and the wireless communication module 3. The control module 4 can be configured, in particular, by storing appropriate data and machine-readable instructions in the memory unit. For simplicity, the interface, processor, and memory unit of the control module 4 are represented in Fig. 1 not shown.

[0045] The control module 4 is configured to receive the interaction data from the interaction detection module 2, evaluate the data and configure the network device 1 at least partially based on the interaction data.

[0046] The control module 4 can further be configured to perform additional process steps according to various embodiments by storing appropriate data and / or machine-readable instructions in the memory unit of the control module 4.

[0047] In particular, the control module 4 can be configured to instruct the communication module 3 to transmit event and network information and to exchange network and other important information with the respective target device or interaction partner.

[0048] In some embodiments, once the device and network information of the interaction device has been confirmed by the communication module, it is sent to the control module, thereby initiating the processing logic for the network configuration of network device 1.

[0049] As a result, a main or central network module of the network device can be commissioned. Specifically, the wireless communication module can be used for handshakes and information exchange only when an interaction event is detected. This information can later be used to commission the device's main network modules.

[0050] Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic block diagram of two network devices according to one embodiment. In particular, it shows Fig. 2 a first network device 1 and a second network device 1'. In this embodiment, both devices are similarly configured as IoT devices capable of joining device networks or establishing a new network when appropriately configured and / or commissioned.

[0051] In particular, each of the network devices 1, 1' comprises an interaction detection module 2, 2', a communication module 3, 3' and a control module 4, 4', according to the embodiment of the Fig. 1.

[0052] The interaction detection modules 2 and 2' are configured to detect a physical interaction between the first network device 1 and the second device 1', where the physical interaction 5 in Fig. 2 is symbolized by a pictogram.

[0053] The interaction detection modules 2 and 2' are further configured to provide interaction data relating to the physical interaction to the control modules 4 and 4' respectively.

[0054] The communication modules 3, 3' of the first network device 1 and / or the second network device 1' can in particular be configured to send event and network information and to exchange network and other essential information with the respective target device or interaction partner.

[0055] Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic block diagram of a network device according to one embodiment. The embodiment of Fig. 3 essentially corresponds to the embodiment of the Fig. 1, wherein the control module 4 comprises a microcomputer unit (MCU) 6 and the interaction detection module 2 comprises a mechanical contact or collision sensor 7.

[0056] The wireless communication module 3 is implemented as a standalone wireless communication module, in particular as an NFC module with an NFC reader 8 and an NFC chip 9 for exchanging network configuration information and handshaking.

[0057] Network device 1 according to Fig. 3 also includes a main communication module 10. The main communication module can be configured to communicate based on a standard communication protocol such as DALI, Zigbee, etc.

[0058] Thus, network device 1 is according to Fig. 3 is able to communicate with other devices via both the NFC module 3 and the main communication module 10.

[0059] Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic block diagram of a network device according to another embodiment. The embodiment of Fig. 4 essentially corresponds to the embodiment of the Fig. 3, wherein the wireless communication module 3 is implemented as the main communication module 10, which is responsible for both the configuration of the network device 1 and the operation of the device network once the network device 1 has been configured and / or commissioned for the device network.

[0060] The execution in Fig. 4 also includes an auxiliary power module 11, which can serve as a secondary power supply when the main power supply is switched off.

[0061] Especially for devices that require installation and connection to the mains power supply, the auxiliary power module can be used for interactive configuration and / or commissioning prior to installation. The auxiliary power module can be either an internal battery or an external power bank.

[0062] In some embodiments, the auxiliary power supply is configured so that at least the interaction detection module, the control module and the wireless communication module are powered prior to installation.

[0063] Fig. Figure 5 shows an example of the implementation of the method for a device network according to one embodiment. The example of Fig. 5 includes two network devices 1, 1', which are configured according to the first aspect, in particular according to one of the in the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3 to Fig. 4 illustrated embodiments.

[0064] The left side of the Fig. 5 symbolizes the network devices 1 and 1' in the initial state, in which there is no network connection between the network devices 1 and 1'.

[0065] The right side of Fig. 5 symbolizes the network devices 1 and 1' in the final state, in which a network connection is established between the network devices 1 and 1'.

[0066] Due to the configuration of network devices 1 and 1', the transition from the initial state to the final state, symbolized by an arrow in the middle, can be easily achieved by gently bumping the two network devices 1 and 1' together.

[0067] Fig. Figure 6 shows an example of the implementation of the method for a device network according to another embodiment. The in Fig. The example shown comprises three different types of network devices 1, 1', 1'', specifically three driver modules, a switch 1' and a presence sensor 1''. All these devices are configured as smart devices with network capabilities according to the first aspect described above.

[0068] The left side of the Fig. 6 corresponds to an initial state in which all network devices 1, 1', 1'' are disconnected, i.e. there is no network connection between network devices 1, 1' and 1''.

[0069] The right side of Fig. 6 symbolizes the network devices 1, 1', 1'' in the final state, in which a network connection is established between the network devices 1, 1' and 1''.

[0070] Due to the configuration of the network devices 1, 1', 1'', the transition, symbolized by an arrow in the middle, from the initial state to the final state can be easily achieved by gently nudging the individual network devices 1, 1', 1'' one after the other.

[0071] As a result, a network of 20 devices, as schematically depicted in the upper right corner, can be created. By applying these principles, device networks of any size and topology can be created.

[0072] Fig. Figure 7 shows a flowchart of a method for forming a device network according to one embodiment. The method 40 can be performed with at least two network devices to commission the devices to join a device network or to create a new network. In particular, the method can be applied repeatedly to extend an already created network.

[0073] According to procedure 40, the procedure can be initiated by a physical interaction between a first network device and a second network device in step 45. Step 45, or a preceding step, may also involve the provisioning of the two network devices, which are equipped with the network device capabilities described above.

[0074] In step 50, an event of physical interaction between the first network device and the second network device is detected. The detection of the physical interaction can be performed, in particular, by the interaction detection module of each device. Specifically, the physical interaction can be detected by the interaction detection module 2 of each of the two network devices.

[0075] Step 50 can also include the provision of interaction data, i.e., data relating to the detected physical interaction. Specifically, the interaction data can be sent from the interaction detection module 2 to the control module 4 of the respective network devices.

[0076] After receiving the interaction data from the interaction recognition module 2, the control module 4 can control all in Fig. The control module can take over the subsequent steps shown in section 7. In particular, it can evaluate the interaction data and coordinate all subsequent steps, at least partially based on the interaction data received from the interaction recognition module 2.

[0077] In the embodiment of the Fig. 7. Procedure 40 further includes the broadcasting of a notification from one or each of the network devices in step 55, which can be received by the respective interaction partner device. The broadcasting can be carried out, in particular, by the wireless communication module 3 of the devices.

[0078] In particular, the wireless communication module 3 can be instructed by the respective control module 4 to send the notification in such a way that it can be received by the interaction partner device, in particular by its wireless communication module 3.

[0079] In step 60, collision and network information is transmitted, in particular via the wireless communication modules 3 of the network devices. The procedure may also include waiting for information about the coupling device; see step 65 in Fig. 7.

[0080] In step 70, the pairing device information can be received. If no pairing device information is received in step 70, the process can be terminated immediately; see step 75. The pairing device information can include network-related information or information relevant to network formation. In particular, it can contain information about the current status of the network devices.

[0081] If the information about the pairing device is received in step 70, a network status check of both devices can be performed; see step 80 in [reference missing]. Fig. 80.

[0082] If the network status check in step 80 reveals that both network devices are being put into operation or already belong to a network, the process is terminated immediately (step 85). In some embodiments, if both devices already belong to the network, the necessary adjustments are made depending on the decision option.

[0083] If the network status check in step 80 shows that neither network device is connected to an existing network, a new network can be created in step 90, and both network devices can be connected to the newly created network. Specifically, the control module of the first and / or second device can initiate the creation of a new network. It then sends a message to both devices, requesting them to join the newly created network.

[0084] For example, after the two devices have detected the interaction, they can begin commissioning to the same network, e.g. Zigbee, BLE, DALI, etc.

[0085] The network devices or the control modules of the network devices can be configured so that the network devices can be assigned to the same group of devices within the network.

[0086] In some embodiments, the network devices can be configured to leave the network or perform other configuration steps when an event of physical interaction is detected.

[0087] If the network status check in step 80 shows that only one of the two network devices is connected to an existing network, the unconnected network device can be added to the existing network in step 95.

[0088] In some embodiments, setup and / or joining the network occurs immediately after event detection and receipt of the interaction data. In other embodiments, the event information is first recorded and processed, and network commissioning and coupling are performed later, e.g., after power-on or upon a single additional event.

[0089] The novel method described above for forming a device network makes the coupling process particularly easy, as a slight push or bump of two devices is sufficient to initiate the configuration or commissioning process.

[0090] Furthermore, the method requires no additional device, such as an NFC reader or a mobile application. This allows any device to pair with any other device that uses the exact same mechanism, without the need for a master node.

[0091] Furthermore, the process is particularly precise and error-free, as it is based on the principle of "what you see is what you get". The coupling process, in particular, involves the intuitive selection of physical devices, which makes the process especially accurate and reliable.

[0092] Furthermore, the method is characterized by robust scalability. Users can extend the system's functionality through custom tap methods, particularly for group control. These devices also offer the convenience of supporting other network configuration processes such as grouping, scenes, and schedules, making their operation user-friendly and efficient.

[0093] Network device groups can be expanded quickly and easily by individually pairing and configuring additional network devices. Furthermore, the method can be operated offline, meaning it can be performed without internet access, thus eliminating the need for an internet connection.

[0094] Although at least one exemplary embodiment has been presented in the preceding detailed description, it should be understood that there are numerous variations. It should also be appreciated that the exemplary embodiment or embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the disclosure in any way. Rather, the preceding detailed description is intended to provide the person skilled in the art with practical guidance for implementing the exemplary embodiment or embodiments. Reference symbol list 1,1',1'' Network device 2.2' Interaction Recognition Module 3.3" wireless communication module 4.4' Control module 5 physical interaction 6 MCU 7 mechanical contact or collision sensor 8 11 NFC readers 9 NFC chip 10 Main communication module Auxiliary power module 20 Network 40 Method 45th process step 50th process step 55th process step 60th process step 65th process step 70th process step 75th process step 80th process step 85th process step 90th process step 95 Procedure step

Claims

[1] Network device, comprising: - an interaction detection module (2) configured to detect an event of a physical interaction between the network device (1) and a second network device (1') and to provide interaction data relating to the physical interaction, - a wireless communication module (3) for communication with other network devices, and - a control module (4) configured for this purpose: - evaluate the interaction data received from the interaction recognition module (2) and - to configure the network device (1) for network communication, at least partially, on the basis of the interaction data. [2] Network device according to claim 1, wherein the interaction detection module (2) is configured to detect a physical contact between the network device (1) and the second network device (1'). [3] Network device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the interaction detection module (2) is configured to detect tapping of the network devices (1, 1'), sticking of the network devices (1, 1') together for a predefined minimum time and / or friction of the network devices (1, 1'). [4] Network device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the interaction detection module (2) comprises at least one interaction detection system with at least one interaction detection sensor. [5] Network device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the control module (4) is configured: - to instruct the wireless communication module (3) to send information about interaction events, - to search for the presence of the second device, and - to initiate a handshake with the second device. [6] Network device according to claim 5, wherein the control module (4) is further configured as follows: - to search for an existing device network, and - to initiate the creation of a new network if no network is detected. [7] Network device according to claim 6, wherein the control module (4) is further configured as follows: - to send a message to the second device and ask it to join the new network. [8] Method (40) for forming a device network, comprising: - Deploying a first network device and a second network device, - Capturing an event of physical interaction between the first network device and the second network device, - Providing interaction data related to the physical interaction, - Processing the interaction data, and - Configuring the first network device and / or the second network device, at least partially, based on the interaction data. [9] The method of claim 8, further comprising: - Initiating a handshake between the first network device and the second network device when physical interaction between the first network device and the second network device is detected. [10] Device network, wherein the device network comprises at least one network device according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

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