Appliance Remote Enable Interface for Secure Network Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remote communication systems for appliances do not account for unexpected or unknown changes in appliance status, limiting their effectiveness in remote management and control.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system that enables remote interaction with appliances by using a remote enable interface, allowing a remote device to communicate with an appliance over a network only when the remote enable interface is activated, and includes a controller to manage and facilitate this communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If remote communication is always enabled for appliances, then remote management and control capability is improved, but security risk and unauthorized access vulnerability increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary authentication and status verification before allowing remote communication. The controller checks whether the appliance is in a remote enable mode and validates the remote device's credentials before establishing communication, preventing unauthorized access while maintaining remote management capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary authentication mechanism between the remote device and the appliance. The controller acts as a mediator that verifies the remote enable interface status and manages the communication protocol, ensuring secure interaction without exposing the appliance to direct unauthorized access
2Ease of operation
If remote communication protocols are simplified for ease of use, then ease of operation is improved, but ability to detect and respond to unexpected status changes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the appliance transmits status information to the remote device during communication. The controller monitors appliance status changes and provides updates to the remote device, ensuring that simplified communication protocols do not compromise the ability to detect and respond to unexpected status changes
Solution Approach 2:
The communication protocol is designed to be dynamic, adapting its complexity based on the appliance's operational state. When the appliance is in remote enable mode, the system activates enhanced status monitoring and reporting features, while maintaining simple interaction for routine operations
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method of remotely interacting with an appliance system are provided. A remote device, such as a computer, a smartphone, a tablet, etc., can initiate communications with an appliance through a communications network. When a remote enablement mode is initiated at the appliance, the remote device can interact with the appliance. For instance, the remote device can initiate operational cycles, activate notifications, perform diagnostic routines, etc. The remote enablement mode can be initiated by a user within the proximity of the appliance using a remote enable interface. The remote enable interface can be a mechanical device, an electromechanical device, and/or a selection through a user interface coupled to the appliance.