Compensated Network Device Idle Capacity Utilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network service arrangements do not effectively utilize the excess capacity of remotely accessible devices during periods of non-use, leading to wasted capabilities and unfavorable cost-benefit ratios for both private subscribers and service providers, lacking incentives for private users to offer excess functionality to service providers and third parties.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that compensates subscribers for performing ancillary functions using their devices' excess transmission, processing, add-on, or signal propagation capacities, allowing third parties to tap into these capabilities through a network service provider framework, enabling utilization of idle device time and additional functionalities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If conventional network service arrangements are used, then service providers can offer network access to subscribers, but the excess capacity of devices during idle periods is wasted and no economic benefit is generated
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables device owners to automatically offer their excess capacity to the network without manual intervention. The device autonomously participates in ancillary service provision during idle periods, converting previously wasted resources into economic value through the compensation framework established by the service provider.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of device usage by transitioning from exclusive primary function use to shared usage including ancillary functions. During idle periods, devices shift from a dormant state to an active state where they can perform additional services such as signal propagation, data collection, or processing for third parties, thereby changing the utilization parameter from 0% to a positive value.
2Adaptability or versatility
If service providers build new infrastructure to provide ancillary services, then service capabilities are expanded, but capital investment and operational costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system makes existing device infrastructure universal by enabling it to perform multiple functions. The same device that provides primary service to its owner can simultaneously or alternatively provide ancillary services to the network and third parties. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated infrastructure for ancillary services, as existing devices are repurposed to serve multiple roles.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of building new physical infrastructure, the system creates a virtual copy of network capabilities by utilizing the computational and communicative resources of existing devices. The ancillary service network is effectively a software-layer replication of network functionality that runs on distributed device hardware, avoiding the need for duplicate physical infrastructure investment.
3Productivity
If private subscribers are asked to provide excess device functionality, then ancillary services become available, but subscribers lack financial incentive to participate
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a compensation feedback mechanism where subscribers receive direct economic feedback for providing excess device functionality. The service provider establishes a compensation framework that pays subscribers based on the value of ancillary services their devices provide, creating a positive feedback loop that incentivizes continued and increased participation in the ancillary service network.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates dynamic pricing and compensation structures that adjust based on network demand, device utilization, and service type. Compensation rates are not static but vary to reflect the real-time value of ancillary services, allowing subscribers to maximize their earnings by providing services during periods of high demand while maintaining flexibility in their participation levels.
4Adaptability or versatility
If third parties want to access device capabilities, then ancillary services can be utilized, but there is no vehicle for third parties to tap into subscriber bases
Solution Approach 1:
The service provider acts as an intermediary between third parties and device subscribers. The service provider establishes a framework that allows third parties to access ancillary services without directly interfacing with individual device owners. The intermediary manages the complexity of device access, authentication, and service delivery, while third parties simply interact with the service provider's standardized interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the service delivery architecture into distinct layers: the device layer that provides raw capabilities, the service provider layer that manages and coordinates resources, and the third-party application layer that consumes services. This segmentation allows third parties to access device capabilities through the managed interface without needing to deal with the underlying complexity of individual device configurations and permissions.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for facilitating controlled use of a remotely accessible device for compensation is described. At least one device remotely accessible over a network and capable of performing a function ancillary to a primary function performed for a subscriber through use of the at least one device is identified. A subscriber of the at least one device is compensated in exchange for performance of the ancillary function relative to the primary function.