Local Audio Device Contingent Actions During Network Outages
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Solution Overview
Problem
Devices that rely on network-based services for functionality often cease to function during network unavailability or outages, disrupting services like media playback and home automation.
Innovation Solution
A voice interaction computing system where a local audio device, equipped with microprocessors and memory, interacts with a remote control service to perform both network-dependent and network-independent actions, allowing for fallback functions when network connectivity is lost, such as playing cached content or audible alerts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If devices rely on network-based services for functionality, then service functionality and features are improved, but reliability deteriorates during network unavailability
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by caching content and pre-configuring fallback actions before network unavailability occurs. The local device stores content locally and prepares alternative actions (such as playing cached content or displaying error messages) that can be executed immediately when network connectivity is lost, ensuring continuous functionality without interruption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements beforehand cushioning by establishing backup mechanisms and error handling procedures in advance. When network issues occur, pre-prepared fallback actions (such as playing local cached content instead of streaming, or displaying offline error messages) cushion the impact of network unavailability, maintaining service continuity and user experience.
2Productivity
If devices perform network-dependent actions, then service quality is improved, but device complexity increases due to connectivity management requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service by enabling the local device to autonomously detect network availability and execute appropriate actions without requiring constant external control. The device independently monitors connectivity status, determines whether to perform network-dependent or fallback actions, and manages error handling locally, reducing the complexity of centralized connectivity management while maintaining high service quality.
Data Source
AI summary
A speech-based system includes a local device in a user premises and a network-based control service that directs the local device to perform actions for a user. The control service may specify a first action that is to be performed upon detection by the local device of a stimulus. In some cases, performing the first action may rely on the availability of network communications with the control service or with another service. In these cases, the control service also specifies a second, fallback action that does not rely upon network communications. Upon detecting the stimulus, the local device performs the first action if network communications are available. If network communications are not available, the local device performs the second, fallback action.