3D Measurement Device NFC Link for Secure Remote Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing 3D measurement devices lack a user-friendly and secure method for initialization and control, particularly in scenarios where multiple users or remote operation is required, leading to inefficiencies and increased size and weight due to energy demands.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating near-field communication (NFC) technology to establish a secure link between a 3D measurement device and a remote control unit, enabling authorization, initialization, and activation of the device, as well as establishing communication paths for remote operation and network connectivity, thereby reducing energy consumption and device size.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If 3D measurement device incorporates NFC technology for secure initialization and remote control, then user friendliness and ease of operation are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser friendlinessVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an NFC interface as an intermediary component that enables secure communication between the 3D measurement device and external devices (smartphones, tablets, or other NFC-enabled devices). This mediator handles authorization, initialization, and control commands, improving ease of operation while containing complexity within a standardized communication module rather than the entire device system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If 3D measurement device enables remote operation and network connectivity, then adaptability and versatility are improved, but device size increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoiddevice size
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The NFC device serves multiple functions: it provides secure authorization, enables initialization, facilitates remote control, and establishes network connectivity. By consolidating these diverse functions into a single multi-functional interface, the patent achieves high adaptability without proportionally increasing device size, as the NFC module handles multiple tasks through a compact standardized protocol.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Volume of moving object

If 3D measurement device reduces size and weight, then portability is improved, but energy consumption increases due to reduced battery capacity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice sizeVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements periodic or on-demand communication through the NFC interface rather than continuous operation. The NFC device enables initialization and control commands to be transmitted periodically or when needed, allowing the 3D measurement device to remain in low-power states between operations. This periodic action pattern reduces average energy consumption, compensating for the reduced battery capacity resulting from the smaller device size.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This solution enhances user friendliness, reduces device size and weight, and extends operating time by enabling secure and efficient initialization and remote control of 3D measurement devices, while allowing for network connectivity and data processing.

Implementation Method 1

a first near-field communication (NFC) device (61) that is assigned to the 3D measurement device (10), and a second NFC device (62), wherein an NFC link (63) is established between the first NFC device (61) and the second NFC device (62)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectNear-field communication (NFC): Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11506767B2Method for optically scanning and measuring an environment using a 3D measurement device and near field communication
Publication Date: 2022.11.22 FARO TECHNOLOGIES INC
  • US11506767B2 patent drawing
  • US11506767B2 patent drawing
  • US11506767B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for scanning and measuring using a 3D measurement device is provided. The method includes providing the 3D measurement device having a light emitter, a light receiver and a command and evaluation device. The 3D measurement device is further includes a first near-field communication (NFC) device having a first antenna. A second NFC device having a second antenna is positioned adjacent the 3D measurement device. An NFC link is established between the first NFC device and the 3D measurement device. An identifier is transmitted from the second NFC device to the 3D measurement device. It is determined that the second NFC device is authorized to communicate with the 3D measurement device. Commands are transferred to the 3D measurement device from the second NFC device based at least in part on the determination that the second NFC device is authorized to communicate with the 3D measurement device.