Acoustic Workflow System Distribution for Network Failure Recovery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Connected environments like smart homes and offices face communication failures due to unreliable network connections, which disrupt the operation of computer-embedded devices and require complex setup processes.
Innovation Solution
The Acoustic Workflow System Distribution (AWSD) leverages acoustic input and response systems of electronic devices to facilitate communication between devices without an active network connection, using acoustic commands to relay workflow tasks and maintain device pairing even during network outages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If network connection is used for device communication, then devices can operate in a connected environment, but communication failures occur due to unreliable network connections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces acoustic signals as an intermediary communication channel between electronic devices. When network communication fails, devices use acoustic commands (sound waves) to transmit workflow task information, maintaining communication reliability without depending on network stability. The acoustic signal acts as a mediator that bridges the communication gap during network outages.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the communication parameter from network-based electronic signals to acoustic signals when network reliability deteriorates. This parameter switching allows the system to adapt to varying network conditions, maintaining operational reliability by transitioning to an alternative communication mode that is independent of network connectivity.
2Reliability
If acoustic communication is used to bypass network failures, then communication reliability improves, but device complexity increases due to additional communication protocols
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the acoustic communication capability universal across all electronic devices in the connected environment. Each device is equipped with both network communication and acoustic communication capabilities, allowing any device to switch between or combine these modes as needed. This multi-functionality ensures workflow execution reliability without requiring complex centralized control, as each device independently manages its communication protocols.
3Ease of operation
If network connection is required for device pairing, then centralized control is maintained, but setup process becomes complex and devices cannot operate independently during network outages
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary device pairing using acoustic communication before network connection is established or during network outages. Devices can exchange pairing information and establish relationships through acoustic signals in advance, so that when network connectivity is restored or available, the devices are already paired and ready to operate. This preliminary action simplifies the setup process and ensures device operation reliability independent of network availability.
Data Source
AI summary
A workflow initiation is detected by a first electronic device. The workflow initiation is directed to a connected environment workflow. The connected environment workflow is related to performance of a set of one or more workflow tasks. It is determined that a first remote task of the set of workflow tasks is directed at a second electronic device. The determination is in response to the workflow initiation. A communication failure is identified. The communication failure is based on the first remote task. The communication failure is a failure to communicate with the second electronic device. An acoustic command is generated in response to the communication failure. The acoustic command is related to the first remote task. The acoustic command is provided to the second electronic device.