Building Automation Controller Configuration via QR Code
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing building automation systems face challenges in network security and user customization, as initial configuration for personalized environmental controls is complex and labor-intensive, and existing approaches do not adequately address authorized user modifications.
Innovation Solution
A network-independent interface system using a mobile device to generate a machine-readable code that encodes user preferences and authentication data, allowing users to modify environmental settings without a network connection, with the code being read by a building automation system to adjust settings accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a network connection is used for configuration and control, then ease of operation is improved, but network security risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a machine-readable code (QR code) as an intermediary carrier that transmits configuration and authentication data without requiring a network connection. The mobile device reads this code to obtain system parameters and authentication credentials, enabling secure local configuration and control while eliminating direct network exposure for initial setup and user authentication.
2Ease of operation
If traditional configuration methods are used, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a simplified copy of the configuration interface through a mobile application that mirrors the building automation system's control capabilities. Instead of requiring users to navigate complex system configurations directly, the mobile app provides a user-friendly interface that captures user preferences and translates them into system commands, significantly reducing configuration complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary configuration actions by encoding authentication data and system parameters into a machine-readable code before the user arrives. When the mobile device scans the code, the configuration process is already partially complete, with authentication credentials and system identifiers pre-loaded, eliminating the need for complex real-time configuration steps.
3Reliability
If network access is required for user authentication, then reliability is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
Authentication credentials and user permissions are pre-loaded into the mobile application through the machine-readable code during system initialization or previous sessions. This allows users to authenticate immediately by presenting their mobile device without requiring real-time network verification, significantly reducing authentication time while maintaining security through locally stored encrypted credentials.
Data Source
AI summary
An approach for configuration of a controller in a building automation system (BAS) using a code that may be generated by the BAS, but accessed without a network work connection.