Method and system for identifying which networked device is mounted at mounting location

Abstract

To provide a system and a method of identifying which networked device in a set of networked devices is mounted at a first one of mounting locations of the set of networked devices known in a management server.SOLUTION: In a system, each networked device in the set of networked devices has a unique identifier. A predetermined sound is emitted using a loudspeaker of a portable device. Information specifying a first mounting location is further sent from the portable device to a management server. Upon detecting a predetermined sound using a microphone in a first networked device in the set of networked devices, the unique identifier of the first networked device is sent from the first networked device to the management server. At the management server, the unique identifier of the first networked device is then linked to the first mounting location.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to identifying which network devices of a set of network devices are attached to a mounting location of a mounting location of the set of network devices. [Background technology]

[0002] In a system in which a set of network devices are installed at respective mounting locations, it may be advantageous to know which devices are installed where. Such network devices may be, for example, network speakers, network door stations, or network cameras. For example, if a set of network speakers is installed in a building such as a department store, it is typically desirable to know which speakers are installed where so that targeted sound messages can be emitted from the speakers at specific locations. For example, a specific message may be intended to be transmitted from one or more speakers installed in a specific department of the department store. In a typical scenario, each network device has a unique identifier, i.e. each network device has an identifier that is unique to that device. The unique identifier may be, for example, a serial number or a MAC address. Furthermore, the mounting locations are pre-determined and known at the management server. After installation, each network device can communicate with the management server, for example through a network to which the installed network device can connect. The management server can then receive the unique identifiers from the network devices and thus know which network devices are connected to the network, but cannot know which network devices are located at which mounting locations unless such links are created. In the prior art, this is typically done by identifying which network devices should be installed in which locations. However, such a procedure makes installation of the network devices more cumbersome because the person installing the network devices must ensure that the correct network devices are installed in the correct locations, even though the network devices are identical except for a unique identifier. Furthermore, there is always a risk that some network devices will not be installed in their intended installation locations. This becomes especially evident when the number of network devices is large.Additionally, in some scenarios, the installer may not have knowledge of the network device other than how it should be physically attached. The unique identifier may also not be accessible by visual inspection, but may require a connection to the network device. Finally, when a network device is attached and it is noted that at least a portion of the network device is not attached to its intended attachment location, the attachment location may be such that it is difficult to retrieve the unique identifier of the network device.

[0003] Therefore, improvements in this area are desirable. Summary of the Invention

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

[0005] According to a first aspect, a method is provided for identifying which network device of a set of network devices is attached to a first mounting location of mounting locations of the set of network devices. Each network device of the set of network devices has a unique identifier and the first mounting location is known at a management server. A predetermined sound is emitted using a speaker of the portable device, and the portable device transmits information identifying the first mounting location to the management server. Upon detecting the predetermined sound using a microphone in the first network device, the first network device transmits its unique identifier to the management server. At the management server, the unique identifier of the first network device is linked to the first mounting location.

[0006] A network device may be any type of device connected to a network such that it can communicate information within the network. Such a network device may be, for example, a speaker, a surveillance camera, a door station, etc.

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

[0008] "The mounting location is known in the management system" means that the mounting location itself is known in the management system, for example as a location on a map, but which network device is mounted in which mounting location is not known in the management system.

[0009] The portable device does not need to be in a particular location when the predetermined sound is emitted from its speaker. However, it is implicit from the fact that the predetermined sound is detected using a microphone in the first network device that the portable device should be positioned such that the emitted predetermined sound can be detected using the microphone in the first network device. It is therefore implicit that the portable device be located within a certain distance from the first mounting location to allow detection of the emitted predetermined sound by a microphone in a network device mounted at the first mounting location.

[0010] By transmitting information identifying the first mounting location to the management server and transmitting a unique identifier of the first network device that detects the predetermined sound, it can be derived that the first network device is mounted at the first mounting location. Thus, in the system after mounting the network device at the first mounting location, it becomes possible to derive which network device is mounted at the first mounting location. This is even possible without requiring a physical or electronic connection to the network device. It is even possible when the network device is mounted such that all or part of any visual indication on the network device of its unique identifier is obscured.

[0011] The first network device may further emit a predetermined response sound using a speaker within the first network device upon detecting the predetermined sound.

[0012] By emitting the predetermined response sound, a user of the portable device can authenticate that the predetermined response sound originated from a network device attached to the first attachment location.

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

[0014] Thus, in an embodiment, the predetermined sound includes a first frequency and a second frequency, and the portable device is located closer to the first mounting location than all other mounting locations of the set of network devices when the predetermined sound is emitted. A first ratio between the amplitude at the first frequency and the amplitude at the second frequency of the detected predetermined sound at the first network device can then be obtained. Upon detecting the predetermined sound using a microphone in the second network device, a unique identifier of the second network device is transmitted from the second network device to the management server. A second ratio between the amplitude at the first frequency and the amplitude at the second frequency of the detected predetermined sound at the second network device can then be obtained. Then, in the management server, it is determined which network device of the first network device and the second network device is closest to the portable device. The determining is based on the first ratio and the second ratio. In the management server, the unique identifier of the network device determined to be closest to the portable device is then linked to the first mounting location.

[0015] By emitting two frequencies, the relative distances to the portable device can be determined for the first and second network devices based on the first and second ratios, respectively. This is possible because the higher amplitude of the first and second frequencies is attenuated over distance more than the lower amplitude of the first and second frequencies. Thus, since the portable device is located closest to the first mounting location when the predetermined sound is emitted, the network device closest to the portable device is also closest to the first mounting location. Thus, even if a set of network devices are mounted at mounting locations such that the predetermined sound emitted when the portable device is located at one location can be detected by two or more network devices mounted at different mounting locations, it is possible to derive which network device is mounted at the first mounting location in the system after mounting the network device at the first mounting location.

[0016] The first ratio and the second ratio may be determined at the first network device. The first ratio and the second ratio are then transmitted from the first network device and the second network device, respectively, to a management server. Obtaining the first ratio and the second ratio at the management server then includes receiving the first ratio and the second ratio from the first network device and the second network device, respectively, to the management server.

[0017] Alternatively, the first ratio and the second ratio may be determined at a management server, which further requires transmitting a representation of the detected predetermined sound from the first network device to the management server and transmitting a representation of the detected predetermined sound from the second network device to the management server. Obtaining the first ratio and the second ratio at the management server then includes determining the first ratio and the second ratio.

[0018] According to a second aspect, a system is provided for identifying which network devices of a set of network devices are attached to respective mounting locations of the set of network devices. The system includes a portable device having a speaker, a management server having a memory that stores mounting locations of the set of network devices, and a set of network devices attached to the mounting locations, each having a microphone. The portable device further includes circuitry configured to perform a sound emission function configured to emit a predetermined sound using the speaker of the portable device, and a transmission function configured to transmit information identifying one mounting location of a plurality of mounting locations of the set of network devices to the management server. Each network device of the set of network devices further includes circuitry configured to perform an identifier transmission function configured to transmit its unique identifier to the management server upon detecting the predetermined sound using the microphone. The management server further includes circuitry configured to perform a link function configured to link the unique identifier to the mounting location.

[0019] The above-mentioned optional additional features of the method according to the first aspect also apply to the system according to the third aspect, where applicable. In order to avoid excessive repetition, reference is made to the above.

[0020] According to a third aspect, there is provided a non-transitory computer readable storage medium storing instructions for performing a method according to the first aspect when executed by a system according to the second aspect.

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

[0022] Therefore, it is to be understood that the present invention is not limited to the specific components of the described device or the operation of the described method, and that such devices and methods may vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting. It is noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the articles "a", "an", "the", and "said" are intended to mean that there are one or more elements, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "a unit" or "the unit" may include several devices, etc. Furthermore, the words "comprising", "including", "containing", and similar phrases do not exclude other elements or steps. These and other aspects of the invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying figures, which should not be considered limiting but are used for explanation and understanding. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0023] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates a system for identifying which network devices of a set of network devices are attached to each mounting location of the mounting locations of the set of network devices. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 illustrates a portable device of the system of FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 illustrates network devices in the system of FIG. 1. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a management server of the system of FIG. [Diagram 5] 1 is a flow chart of an embodiment of a method for identifying which network devices of a set of network devices are attached to each mounting location of the mounting locations of the set of network devices. [Figure 6a]10 is a flow chart of a further embodiment of a method for identifying which network devices of a set of network devices are attached to each mounting location of the mounting locations of the set of network devices. [Figure 6b] 10 is a flow chart of a further embodiment of a method for identifying which network devices of a set of network devices are attached to each mounting location of the mounting locations of the set of network devices. [Figure 6c] 10 is a flow chart of a further embodiment of a method for identifying which network devices of a set of network devices are attached to each mounting location of the mounting locations of the set of network devices. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0024] The present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which a presently preferred embodiment of the invention is shown, however, this invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein.

[0025] The present invention is applicable to any scenario in which it is to determine which of a set of network devices, each having a unique identifier, is attached to a first attachment location of attachment locations known to a management server.

[0026] For example, the invention is applicable to a scenario in which a set of network devices are to be installed at respective mounting locations of mounting locations, each network device having a unique identifier, i.e. each network device has an identifier that is unique to that device. The network devices may be, for example, network speakers or network cameras, or any other network devices that have a unique identifier. The unique identifier may be, for example, a serial number or a MAC address. The mounting locations are pre-determined and known in the management server, for example on a map of the area or facility where the network devices are to be installed. After installation, each network device can communicate with the management server, for example through a network to which the installed network devices can be connected and to which the management server is also connected. The management server can then receive the unique identifiers from the network devices and thus know which network devices are connected to the network. However, without such a link, the management server does not know which network devices are located at which mounting locations.

[0027] In another example, the present invention is also applicable when a set of network devices are installed in mounting locations according to a map known to a management server, and the unique identifier of each network device is pre-linked to a respective mounting location of the mounting locations, but at least some of the network devices are identified after installation to be installed in an incorrect mounting location relative to the instructions on the map. Thus, in this scenario, a person installing the network devices should identify the unique identifier of each network device of the set of network devices and install them in their respective mounting locations according to the links on the map known to the management server, but in at least some cases failed to install the correct network devices in the correct mounting locations.

[0028] A system 100 for identifying which network device 140 of a set of network devices 140 is attached to each of attachment positions A to E of the set of network devices 140 will now be described with reference to Figures 1 to 4. As shown in Figure 1, the system 100 includes a portable device 110, a set of network devices 140, and a management server 170.

[0029] Figure 2 shows a portable device 110 of the system 100 of Figure 1. The portable device 110 may be, for example, a mobile phone, a tablet, or a laptop.

[0030] The portable device 110 includes a speaker 115 and a circuit 120. The circuit 120 is configured to perform functions of the portable device 110. The circuit 120 may include a processor 122, such as a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a tensor processing unit (TPU), a microcontroller, or a microprocessor. The processor 122 is configured to execute program code. The program code may be configured to perform functions of the portable device 110, for example.

[0031] The portable device 110 may further comprise a memory 130. The memory 130 may be one or more of a buffer, a flash memory, a hard drive, a removable media, a volatile memory, a non-volatile memory, a random access memory (RAM), or another suitable device. In a typical arrangement, the memory 130 may include a non-volatile memory for long-term data storage and a volatile memory that serves as device memory for the circuit 120. The memory 130 may exchange data with the circuit 120 via a data bus. There may also be associated control lines and address buses between the memory 130 and the circuit 120.

[0032] The functionality of the portable device 110 may be embodied in the form of executable logic routines (e.g., lines of code, software programs, etc.) stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium (e.g., memory 130) of the portable device 110 and executed by the circuitry 120 (e.g., using the processor 132). Furthermore, the functionality of the portable device 110 may be a standalone software application or may form part of a software application that performs additional tasks related to the portable device 110. The described functionality may be considered as a method that a processing unit, e.g., the processor 132 of the circuitry 120, is configured to execute. Also, while the described functionality may be implemented in software, such functionality may be performed via dedicated hardware or firmware, or some combination of hardware, firmware, and / or software.

[0033] The speaker 115 is configured to emit a predetermined sound. In an embodiment, the speaker is configured to emit a sound that includes two frequencies. The two frequencies can be emitted in parallel or sequentially. Further description of the emitted predetermined sounds that the speaker 115 is configured to emit in different embodiments is provided below in the description with respect to Figures 5 and 6a-6c.

[0034] The circuit 120 is configured to execute a sound emission function 132 configured to emit a predetermined sound using the speaker 115. The circuit 120 is further configured to execute an information transmission function 134 configured to transmit information identifying an attachment location to the management server 170. In particular, the attachment location is indicated to determine which network device 140 is attached.

[0035] Further description of operations performed by the functions of portable device 110 in different embodiments is provided below in the discussion with respect to Figures 5 and 6a-6c.

[0036] Figure 3 shows a network device 140 of the system 100 of Figure 1. The network device 140 has a unique identifier. The network device 140 may be, for example, a network speaker, a network camera, or a network door station.

[0037] Network device 140 comprises microphone 145 and circuitry 150. Circuitry 150 is configured to perform functions of network device 140. Circuitry 150 may include a processor 152, such as, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a tensor processing unit (TPU), a microcontroller, or a microprocessor. Processor 152 is configured to execute program code. The program code may be configured to perform functions of network device 140, for example.

[0038] The network device 140 may further comprise a memory 160. The memory 160 may be one or more of a buffer, a flash memory, a hard drive, a removable media, a volatile memory, a non-volatile memory, a random access memory (RAM), or another suitable device. In a typical arrangement, the memory 160 may include a non-volatile memory for long-term data storage and a volatile memory that serves as device memory for the circuit 150. The memory 160 may exchange data with the circuit 150 via a data bus. Associated control lines and address buses may also be present between the memory 160 and the circuit 150.

[0039] The functionality of the network device 140 may be embodied in the form of executable logic routines (e.g., lines of code, software programs, etc.) stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium (e.g., memory 160) of the network device 140 and executed by the circuitry 150 (e.g., using the processor 152). Furthermore, the functionality of the network device 140 may be a standalone software application or may form part of a software application that performs additional tasks related to the network device 140. The described functionality may be considered as a method that a processing unit, e.g., the processor 152 of the circuitry 150, is configured to execute. Also, while the described functionality may be implemented in software, such functionality may be performed via dedicated hardware or firmware, or some combination of hardware, firmware, and / or software.

[0040] The microphone 145 is configured to detect a predetermined sound.

[0041] The circuitry 150 is configured to perform an identifier transmission function configured to transmit a unique identifier of the network device 140 to the management server 170 upon detecting a predetermined sound emitted by the speaker 115 of the portable device 162 .

[0042] In embodiments in which speaker 115 of portable device 110 is configured to emit a predetermined sound including a first frequency and a second frequency, circuitry 150 may be further configured to perform a ratio determination function 164 configured to, upon detecting the predetermined sound using microphone 145, determine a ratio between an amplitude at the first frequency and an amplitude at the second frequency of the predetermined sound detected by microphone 155. The circuitry is then further configured to perform a ratio transmission function 166 configured to transmit the ratio to management server 170.

[0043] Alternatively, in an embodiment in which the speaker 115 of the portable device 110 is configured to emit a predetermined sound including a first frequency and a second frequency, the circuitry 150 may be further configured to execute a sound transmission function 168 configured to transmit a representation of the detected predetermined sound to the management server 170 upon detecting the predetermined sound using the microphone 145.

[0044] In addition, the circuitry 150 may be further configured to execute a sound emission function 169 configured to emit a predetermined response sound using the speaker 148 upon detecting a predetermined sound emitted by the speaker 115 of the portable device 110.

[0045] Further description of operations performed by the functions of network device 140 in different embodiments is provided below in conjunction with Figures 5 and 6a-6c.

[0046] Figure 4 shows an administration server 170 of the system 100 of Figure 1. The administration server 170 may be implemented in a device separate from the portable device 140, for example as a separate computer or computer system connected to the network to which the network devices are or will be connected. Alternatively, the administration server may be implemented in the portable device 140.

[0047] When the management server 170 is implemented as a device separate from the portable device 14, the management server 170 includes a memory unit 175 and a circuit 180. The circuit 180 is configured to perform functions of the management server 170. The circuit 180 may include a processor 182, such as, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a tensor processing unit (TPU), a microcontroller, or a microprocessor. The processor 182 is configured to execute program code. The program code may be configured to perform functions of the management server 170, for example.

[0048] The management server 170 may further comprise a memory 190. The memory 190 may be one or more of a buffer, a flash memory, a hard drive, a removable media, a volatile memory, a non-volatile memory, a random access memory (RAM), or another suitable device. In a typical arrangement, the memory 190 may include a non-volatile memory for long-term data storage and a volatile memory that serves as device memory for the circuitry 180. The memory 190 may exchange data with the circuitry 180 via a data bus. Associated control lines and address buses may also be present between the memory 190 and the circuitry 180.

[0049] The functionality of the management server 170 may be embodied in the form of executable logic routines (e.g., lines of code, software programs, etc.) stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium (e.g., memory 190) of the management server 170 and executed by the circuitry 180 (e.g., using the processor 182). Furthermore, the functionality of the management server 170 may be a standalone software application or may form part of a software application that performs additional tasks related to the management server 170. The described functionality may be considered as a method that a processing unit, e.g., the processor 182 of the circuitry 180, is configured to execute. Also, while the described functionality may be implemented in software, such functionality may be performed via dedicated hardware or firmware, or some combination of hardware, firmware, and / or software.

[0050] The storage unit 175 is configured to store the attachment locations and links between the unique identifiers of the network devices and the respective attachment locations. The storage unit 175 may be further configured to store a map and an indication of the attachment locations on the map.

[0051] The circuitry 180 is configured to perform a linking function 192 configured to link the unique identifier received from the network device 140 to the attachment location.

[0052] In an embodiment, the speaker 115 of the portable device 110 is configured to emit a predetermined sound including a first frequency and a second frequency, and the portable device is mounted at a position closer to one mounting position than all other mounting positions of the set of network devices when the predetermined sound is emitted. For example, when determining which network devices 140 are mounted at the first mounting position A of FIG. 1, the portable device is mounted at a position A' closer to the first mounting position A than all other mounting positions B-E. In such an embodiment, the circuit 180 may be further configured to perform a ratio obtaining function 194 configured to obtain a respective ratio between an amplitude at the first frequency and an amplitude at the second frequency of the detected predetermined sound at each network device. The circuit 180 is then further configured to perform a proximity determining function 196 configured to determine which of the network devices is closest to the portable device based on the determined respective ratios. If the respective ratios are received from two or more network devices 140, the ratio obtaining function 194 may be configured to receive the respective ratios. Alternatively, if representations of the detected sound are received from more than one network device 140, the ratio obtainment function 194 may be configured to determine respective ratios for the more than one network device 140. The linking function 192 is then configured to link the unique identifier of the network device determined to be closest to the portable device 170 to the first mounting location A.

[0053] When the management server 170 is implemented in the portable device 140, the portable device 140 further comprises a memory unit 175. Furthermore, the circuitry 150 of the portable device 140 is further configured to perform the functions of the management server 170, namely a link function 192 and optionally a ratio obtaining function 194 and a proximity determining function 196.

[0054] An embodiment of a method for identifying which network devices of a set of network devices are attached to a first attachment location will now be described with reference to Figures 5 and 6a-6c.

[0055] In FIG. 5, a flow chart is shown of an embodiment of a method 500 for identifying which network devices of a set of network devices are attached to a first attachment location. The method 500 may be implemented in the system 100, for example, as described in connection with FIGS. 1-4. Each network device of the set of network devices has a unique identifier and is implemented using a portable device, such as the portable device described in connection with FIG. 2, which may be, for example, the network device 140 described in connection with FIG. 3. The attachment locations of the set of network devices are known in a management server, such as the management server 170 described in connection with FIG. 4. As described in connection with FIG. 4, the management server may be implemented in a device separate from the portable devices, or the management server may be implemented in the portable device. Thus, in the following references to the management device, both of these options are encompassed.

[0056] Method 500 is performed in association with a first mounting location of the mounting locations of the set of network devices to determine which network devices of the set of network devices are mounted in the first mounting location. Method 500 may then be repeated for some or all of the remaining mounting locations of the remaining network devices of the set of network devices.

[0057] First, a predetermined sound is emitted S510 using a speaker of the portable device. The predetermined sound is emitted S510 while the portable device is positioned such that a microphone of a network device attached to a first mounting location can detect the predetermined sound. The portable device further transmits S520 information identifying the first mounting location to the management server. The information may be transmitted, for example, when a user of the portable device selects the first mounting location on a map in the portable device. Upon detecting the predetermined sound using the microphone in the first network device, the first network device transmits S530 its unique identifier to the management server. Then, in the management server, the unique identifier of the first network device is linked S580 to the first mounting location.

[0058] The method 500 may further include the first network device emitting a predetermined response sound S590 upon detecting the predetermined sound. In this manner, an operator can verify that the first network device has detected the emitted predetermined sound and verify that the response sound emitted from the first network device comes from the first mounting location where the method 500 is being performed.

[0059] The method 500 is applicable to a scenario in which only a first network device detects the emitted pre-defined sound and not other network devices in the set of network devices, such as in a scenario in which the network devices are sparsely distributed such that only one network device at a time is within a distance from the portable device to detect the emitted pre-defined sound.

[0060] In a scenario where multiple network devices can detect the emitted predetermined sound, the method may further include verifying S570 that only the unique identifier of the first network device has been received at the management server before linking S580 the unique identifier of the first network device to the first mounting location. If the management server receives unique identifiers by additional network devices, the management server may prompt the portable device to move closer to the first mounting location and / or reduce the amplitude of the predetermined sound before a re-iteration of the method 500 is performed in relation to the first mounting location. Additionally or alternatively, a user of the portable device may detect when the predetermined response sound is emitted from multiple network devices. The portable device may then be moved closer to the first mounting location and / or the amplitude of the predetermined sound may be reduced before a re-iteration of the method 500 is performed in relation to the first mounting location. Additionally or alternatively, the portable device may be placed in a position such that while the predetermined sound is being emitted S520, the emitted sound cannot be detected by a microphone of a network device mounted at a mounting location other than the first mounting location at which method 500 is being performed.

[0061] In addition to linking the unique identifier of the first network device to the first mounting location S580, the first network device may be provided with a name, such as a name indicative of the location in which it is mounted. For example, if the first network device is mounted in a building, the network device may be given a name indicative of the part of the building in which the first network device is mounted.

[0062] 6a-6c, a flow chart of a further embodiment of a method 500 for identifying which network devices of a set of network devices are attached to a first attachment location is shown.

[0063] The method 600 may be implemented in the system 100, for example, as described in relation to Figures 1-4. Each network device of the set of network devices has a unique identifier and may be, for example, the network device 140 described in relation to Figure 3, and is implemented using a portable device, such as the portable device described in relation to Figure 2. The mounting locations of the set of network devices are known to a management server, such as the management server 170 as described in relation to Figure 4. As described in relation to Figure 4, the management server may be implemented in a device separate from the portable devices, or the management server may be implemented in the portable device. Thus, references below to a management device encompass both of these options.

[0064] The method 600 is applicable to a scenario in which a set of network devices are mounted at mounting locations such that the plurality of network devices typically detect a predefined sound emitted from the portable device. To this end, when the method 600 is performed in relation to a first mounting location, the portable device is located at a location closer to the first mounting location than all other mounting locations of the set of network devices S605. The predefined sound is then emitted S610. The predefined sound includes two different frequencies, namely a first frequency and a second frequency. The reason that the two different frequencies are emitted is that over the same distance, the amplitude of the higher frequency sound is attenuated more than the amplitude of the lower frequency sound. The first frequency and the second frequency may be emitted simultaneously, sequentially, or a combination of both. Furthermore, the first frequency and the second frequency portions of the predefined sound may be of any type, such as, for example, a sinusoidal sound.

[0065] The portable device further transmits S620 information indicative of the first mounting location where the method 600 is being performed.

[0066] The emitted predetermined sound is then detected using a microphone in the first network device. This means that the first network device is mounted at a mounting location within a certain distance from the portable device so that the emitted predetermined sound can be detected by the microphone of the first network device. Upon detecting the emitted predetermined sound, the first network device transmits its unique identifier to the management server S630.

[0067] Similarly, the emitted predetermined sound is detected using a microphone in the second network device. This means that the second network device is also mounted at a mounting location within a certain distance from the portable device so that the emitted predetermined sound can be detected by the microphone of the second network device. Upon detecting the emitted predetermined sound, the first network device transmits its unique identifier to the management server S635.

[0068] At this stage, it cannot be determined whether the first network device or the second network device is mounted at the first mounting location where the method 600 is performed. However, if no microphone of any further network device of the set of network devices detects the emitted predetermined sound, then one of the first network device and the second network device is mounted at the first mounting location where the method 600 is performed.

[0069] To determine whether the first network device or the second network device is attached to the first attachment location where the method 600 is performed, a first ratio between the amplitude of the first frequency of the detected predetermined sound in the first network device and the amplitude of the second frequency of the detected predetermined sound in the first network device is obtained in the management server S660. Similarly, a second ratio between the amplitude of the first frequency of the detected predetermined sound in the second network device and the amplitude of the second frequency of the detected predetermined sound in the second network device is obtained in the management server S662. By comparing these ratios, it can be determined whether the first network device or the second network device is closer to the location where the portable device was located when the predetermined sound was emitted. Specifically, if the first frequency is a higher frequency and the second frequency is a lower frequency, the network device closest to the location where the portable device was located when the predetermined sound was emitted has the highest ratio. If the first frequency is a lower frequency and the second frequency is a higher frequency, the network device closest to the location where the portable device was located when the predetermined sound was emitted has the lowest ratio.

[0070] After obtaining the first ratio and the second ratio, it is determined in the management server which of the first network device and the second network device is closest to the portable device, or rather closest to the position of the portable device when the predetermined sound was emitted S664. Finally, since the portable device was located closer to the first mounting position than all other mounting positions of the set of network devices when the predetermined sound was emitted, the network device determined to be closest to the portable device is also the network device closest to the first mounting position. Thus, the unique identifiers of the network devices of the first network device and the second network device determined to be closest to the portable device are linked to the first mounting position in the management server S680.

[0071] The network device closest to the first mounting location and whose unique identifier is linked to the first mounting location may then be prompted, for example by the management server, to emit a predefined response sound. In this way, an operator can authenticate that the predefined response sound comes from the first mounting location where the method 600 is being performed.

[0072] The first and second ratios may be determined in the first and second network devices, respectively, or in a management server. In the following description, two alternative embodiments are described with reference to Figures 6b and 6c, respectively.

[0073] Referring to Figure 6b, Figure 6b discloses steps performed after a predetermined sound emitted is detected at a first network device and a second network device, when a first ratio and a second ratio are determined at the first network device and the second network device, respectively.

[0074] A first ratio between an amplitude of a first frequency of the detected predetermined sound at the first network device and an amplitude of a second frequency of the detected predetermined sound at the first network device is determined S640 at the first network device. The first ratio is then transmitted S642 from the first network device to the management server.

[0075] Similarly, a second ratio between the amplitude of the first frequency of the detected predetermined sound at the second network device and the amplitude of the second frequency of the detected predetermined sound at the second network device is determined at the second network device S644. The first ratio is then transmitted from the first network device to the management server S646.

[0076] Next, obtaining the first ratio at the management server S660 includes receiving the first ratio at the management server S660.

[0077] Similarly, obtaining the second ratio at the management server S662 includes receiving the second ratio at the management server S662.

[0078] Referring to FIG. 6c, FIG. 6c discloses steps that are performed after a predetermined sound emitted is detected at a first network device and a second network device when the first ratio and the second ratio are determined at a management server.

[0079] A representation of the detected predetermined sound at the first network device is transmitted S650 from the first network device to the management server.

[0080] Next, obtaining a first ratio at the management server S660 includes determining a first ratio between an amplitude of a first frequency of the detected predetermined sound at the first network device and an amplitude of a second frequency of the detected predetermined sound at the management server S660.

[0081] Similarly, a representation of the detected predetermined sound at the second network device is transmitted S652 from the second network device to the management server.

[0082] Next, obtaining a second ratio at the management server S662 includes determining a second ratio between the amplitude of a first frequency of the detected predetermined sound at the first network device and the amplitude of a second frequency of the detected predetermined sound at the management server S662.

[0083] The method steps described above with respect to Figures 5 and 6a-6c, respectively, may be implemented in different variations and with varying degrees of automation in different parts of the system 100. Examples of such variations are described below.

[0084] For example, when a network device detects a predefined sound, it can automatically send its unique identifier to a server, or the network device can notify the server that it has detected a predefined sound, and the server can link this information to the network device's already registered unique identifier, or the server can request the unique identifier after signaling that the network device has detected a predefined sound.

[0085] In another variation, if the portable device has a network connection to a network device, the network device may transmit its unique identifier to the portable device rather than directly to the server. If more than one network device detects a given sound, they may transmit their respective unique identifiers to the portable device. The portable device may also receive a representation of the detected sound, such that the portable device may perform a process to determine which network device is closest. Once it is determined which network device is closest, the portable device may instruct the server to link the unique identifier of that network device to the first mounting location.

[0086] If only one network device detects the predetermined sound and notifies the server, the server may automatically link the unique identifier of that network device to the first mounting location. Alternatively, the server may prompt the installer or user to confirm that the identified network device should be linked to the first mounting location. If more than one network device detects the predetermined sound, it may be determined as described above which of these is closest to the portable device emitting the predetermined sound. The server may automatically link the network device determined to be the closest to the first mounting location. Alternatively, it may present a list of network devices that detected the predetermined sound and sort the network devices from closest to furthest. The installer or user may be prompted to indicate that the network device at the top of the list should be linked to the first mounting location. In line with what has been described above, the network device at the top of the list may be instructed to emit a confirmation sound so that the person with the portable device can hear that it is the identified intended network device. The person with the portable device may then indicate that this confirmation has been performed. After this, the server may link the unique identifier of the network device at the top of the list to the first mounting location.

[0087] If two or more network devices are ranked from closest to furthest, once the closest is linked to the first mounting location, the server may automatically, or through the installer's input, continue to link the next network device on the list to another mounting location known to be closer to the first location. To this end, the next network device may be instructed to emit a confirmation sound so that the person with the portable device can verify that the next network device is indeed the second closest one.

[0088] Even if only one network device detects the predetermined sound, that network device can be instructed to emit a confirmation sound, thereby allowing a person with the portable device to confirm that the intended network device has been identified. This can be useful, for example, to avoid linking the wrong network device to the first mounting location if the intended network device has failed or been blocked and does not detect the predetermined sound, but another network device slightly away does detect the predetermined sound.

[0089] It may be advantageous for the network device to only listen for the predetermined sound when in installation or configuration mode, rather than always listening for the predetermined sound. The server may send an instruction to the network device to enter installation mode, thereby starting listening for the predetermined sound. The network device may then exit installation mode after a predetermined installation time has elapsed, or upon receiving an exit instruction from the server. If the portable device has a network connection to the network devices, the portable device may send an instruction to one or more of the network devices over the network to start listening for the predetermined sound. If such an instruction is sent from the portable device to only one of the network devices, that network device may notify the server, which may in turn instruct the other network devices to start listening. In other embodiments, the network device may continuously listen for the predetermined sound.

[0090] The information identifying the first attachment location can be transmitted in various ways. As an example, the portable device may be provided by the server with a map of where the network devices are attached. When the person holding the portable device walks up to one of the network devices, this location on the map can be indicated. This instruction can then be transmitted to the server. In other embodiments, the portable device may be less sophisticated and the person holding the portable device may be instructed where to go based on a map on the server. Such a map may be printed out, for example, or the person with the portable device may be instructed verbally by someone looking at the map on the server. When the portable device is brought to the desired location, the person holding the portable device may sound a predetermined sound. When the server receives information from the network device that the network device has detected the predetermined sound, it may link the unique identifier of the network device to the attachment location where the person was instructed to go. The person may continue to another network device after a predetermined time has elapsed, after an instruction from someone at the server, or after the network device emits a sound indicating that the link is complete.

[0091] Those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments. On the contrary, many modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the appended claims. Such modifications and variations can be understood and effected by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed invention, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method (500; 600) for identifying which network device among a set of network devices is attached to a first attachment position of the attachment positions of the set of network devices known in a management server, wherein each network device of the set of network devices has a unique identifier, emitting a predetermined sound using a speaker of a portable device, wherein the portable device is located closer to the first attachment position than all other attachment positions of the set of network devices so that the emitted predetermined sound can be detected by a microphone in the network device attached to the first attachment position (S510; S610), transmitting information specifying the first attachment position from the portable device to the management server (S520; S620), when detecting the predetermined sound using a microphone in the first network device, transmitting the unique identifier of the first network device from the first network device to the management server (S530; S630), linking the unique identifier of the first network device to the first attachment position in the management server (S580; S680) comprising a method (500; 600).

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising, when detecting the predetermined sound, the first network device (S590) emitting a predetermined response sound using a speaker in the first network device comprising the method (500; 600) according to claim 1.

3. The predetermined sound includes a first frequency and a second frequency, the portable device is located closer to the first attachment position than all other attachment positions of the set of network devices when the predetermined sound is emitted, and the method includes obtaining, in the management server, a first ratio between an amplitude at the first frequency and an amplitude at the second frequency of the detected predetermined sound in the first network device (S660), When detecting the predetermined sound using a microphone in the second network device, transmitting the unique identifier of the second network device from the second network device to the management server (S520; S620); In the management server, obtaining a second ratio between the amplitude at the first frequency and the amplitude at the second frequency of the detected predetermined sound in the second network device (S662); In the management server, determining which of the first network device and the second network device is closest to the portable device based on the first ratio and the second ratio (S664); further comprising The linking (S580; S680) is linking the unique identifier of the network device determined to be closest to the portable device to the first attachment position (S580; S680); including The method (500; 600) according to claim 1.

4. In the first network device, determining a first ratio between the amplitude at the first frequency and the amplitude at the second frequency of the detected predetermined sound in the first network device (S640); transmitting the first ratio from the first network device to the management server (S642); In the second network device, determining a second ratio between the amplitude at the first frequency and the amplitude at the second frequency of the detected predetermined sound in the second network device (S644); transmitting the second ratio from the second network device to the management server (S646); further comprising In the management server, obtaining the first ratio (S660) is receiving the first ratio (S660); including In the management server, obtaining the second ratio (S662) is receiving the second ratio (S662); including The method (500; 600) according to claim 3.

5. transmitting the representation of the detected predetermined sound from the first network device to the management server (S650); transmitting the representation of the detected predetermined sound from the second network device to the management server (S650); further comprising in the management server, obtaining the first ratio (S660) comprises in the management server, determining the first ratio between the amplitude at the first frequency and the amplitude at the second frequency of the detected predetermined sound in the first network device (S660); including in the management server, obtaining the second ratio (S662) comprises in the management server, determining the second ratio between the amplitude at the first frequency and the amplitude at the second frequency of the detected predetermined sound in the second network device (S662); including The method (500; 600) according to claim 3.

6. A system (100) for identifying which network device (140) among a set of network devices (140) is attached to each attachment position (A-E) of the attachment positions (A-E) of the set of network devices (140), a portable device (110) comprising a speaker (115); a management server (170) comprising a memory (175) for storing the attachment positions (A-E) of the set of network devices (140); a set of network devices (140) attached to the attachment positions (A-E), each network device (140) comprising a set of network devices (140) with a microphone (145); comprising the portable device (110) is a sound-emitting function (132) configured to emit a predetermined sound using the speaker (115) of the portable device, the portable device being closer to the first attachment position than all other attachment positions of the set of network devices so that detection of the emitted predetermined sound by a microphone in the network device attached to the first attachment position is possible, and an information transmission function (134) configured to transmit information identifying the attachment position (A) to the management server (170); further comprising a circuit (120) configured to execute Each network device (140) of the set of the network devices (140) is further provided with a circuit (150) configured to execute an identifier transmission function (162) that, when detecting the predetermined sound using the microphone (145), transmits its unique identifier to the management server (170). The management server (170) is further provided with a circuit (180) configured to execute a linking function (192) configured to link the unique identifier to the attachment position (A). System (100). **Claim 7** The circuit provided in each network device of the set of network devices is further configured to execute a sound emission function (169) configured to emit a predetermined response sound using a speaker (148) within the network device (140) when detecting the predetermined sound. The system (100) according to claim 6. **Claim 8** The predetermined sound includes a first frequency and a second frequency. When the predetermined sound is emitted, the portable device (110) is located at a position (A') closer to the attachment position (A) than all other attachment positions (A - E) of the set of network devices (140). The circuit (180) provided in the management server (170) is further configured to execute a ratio acquisition function (194) configured to acquire each ratio between the amplitude at the first frequency and the amplitude at the second frequency of the detected predetermined sound in each network device (140), and a proximity determination function (196) configured to determine, based on the determined respective ratios, which network device (140) among the network devices (140) is closest to the portable device (110). The linking function (192) is configured to link the unique identifier of the network device (140) determined to be closest to the portable device (110) to the attachment position (A). The system (100) according to claim 6. **Claim 9** The circuit (150) provided in each network device (140) of the set of network devices (140) Upon detecting the predetermined sound, a ratio determination function (164) configured to determine, in the network device (140), each ratio between the amplitude at the first frequency of the detected predetermined sound and the amplitude at the second frequency, and a ratio transmission function (166) configured to transmit each determined ratio to the management server (170) are further configured to execute, the ratio acquisition function (194) is configured to receive each ratio, The system (100) according to claim 8.

10. The circuit (150) provided in each network device (140) of the set of network devices (140) is further configured to execute a sound transmission function (168) configured to transmit, to the management server (170), a representation of the detected predetermined sound when the predetermined sound is detected and the ratio acquisition function (194) is configured to determine each ratio between the amplitude at the first frequency of the detected predetermined sound and the amplitude at the second frequency in each network device (140). The system (100) according to claim 8.

11. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing instructions for implementing the method (500; 600) according to any one of claims 1 to 5 when executed by the system (100) according to any one of claims 6 to 10.

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