Centralized Wireless Network for Multi-Room Properties
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing facility control systems face challenges in efficiently managing and monitoring low-powered devices in large facilities due to high installation and maintenance costs, complexity, and the limitations of wired and infrared communication methods, particularly in retrofitting existing structures where wire installation is costly and disruptive.
Innovation Solution
A centralized wireless network utilizing the ZigBee protocol allows low-powered devices to communicate directly with network routers or gateways, enabling efficient communication across RF transmission areas, with the option to operate on multiple frequency bands and integrate with wired networks for higher data transfer rates, and includes a central server for message integrity and retransmission management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If wired communication networks are installed in existing facilities, then communication reliability is improved, but installation cost and facility disruption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical wired communication system with a wireless RF-based communication system. Low-powered devices communicate via RF signals to network routers or gateways, eliminating the need for physical wire installation in existing facilities while maintaining communication reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces network routers and gateways as intermediary devices that facilitate wireless communication between low-powered devices and the central server. These intermediaries enable reliable communication across the facility without requiring direct wired connections between all devices.
2Ease of operation
If battery operation is used for inaccessible devices, then installation flexibility is improved, but operational cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces battery-powered RF communication with wired power and communication infrastructure. Devices mounted in inaccessible locations receive power and communication signals through physical wiring, eliminating the need for batteries while maintaining installation flexibility.
3Device complexity
If IR communication is used for wireless communication, then installation complexity is reduced, but communication reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces infrared (IR) communication with RF-based wireless communication. RF signals can penetrate walls and communicate through obstacles, providing reliable communication between rooms and areas where IR line-of-sight communication would fail.
4Measurement precision
If dedicated wired networks are installed in each room, then communication precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple communication functions into a unified wireless network system. Low-powered devices, network routers, and gateways all operate on the same RF communication protocol, eliminating the need for separate dedicated wired networks in each room while maintaining communication precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal wireless communication infrastructure that serves multiple functions: data transmission, device control, and monitoring. The same RF network supports various device types and communication needs across the entire facility, reducing overall system complexity.
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 reduces installation and maintenance costs, enhances communication efficiency, and allows for seamless integration with existing infrastructure, improving facility management and operational efficiency while minimizing downtime and revenue impact.
Implementation Method 1
allowing all devices (regardless if they are low powered battery operated devices) in an area defined and/or covered by Radio Frequency (RF) transmissions to communicate directly with network routers or gateways
Implementation Method 2
Solutions for communicating with devices such as those that cannot be accessed by wires have predominately been addressed through combinations of wired connections, Infrared (IR) communication
Data Source
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AI summary
Method and devices for use in a centralized wireless network are provided. The centralized wireless network employs a wireless communication protocol to communicate with various devices throughout the network. In addition to communication, the protocol may be used to control and monitor various aspects of the devices throughout the network.