Contextual Identity Assignment via Proximity Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manually assigning and configuring contextual identities for IoT devices is a time-consuming and error-prone process, especially during the installation of new devices in a network.
Innovation Solution
The system automatically assigns a contextual identity to a new IoT device by utilizing proximity data from existing devices on the client network, which is collected and analyzed by a device management service to determine the estimated location and corresponding contextual identity of the new device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual assignment of contextual identity is used, then device can be identified and controlled, but installation time increases and error rate increases
Solution Approach 1:
The new IoT device automatically determines its own contextual identity by collecting proximity data from existing devices and processing it through the device management service, eliminating the need for manual configuration by technicians or users
Solution Approach 2:
Existing devices in the network pre-establish the contextual framework (room locations, device groupings) before the new device arrives, allowing the new device to automatically inherit and adopt the appropriate contextual identity based on its proximity to existing devices
2Ease of operation
If manual configuration is performed, then contextual identity can be assigned, but risk of security breaches increases due to technician account access
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-configuration automatically through machine-to-machine communication between the new device, existing devices, and the device management service, completely eliminating the need for human technicians to access user accounts or manually configure devices
Solution Approach 2:
The device management service acts as a secure intermediary that orchestrates the automatic contextual identity assignment process, using signed tokens and cryptographic verification to ensure secure communication without requiring direct human intervention or account access
3Productivity
If automated proximity-based assignment is used, then installation time decreases and accuracy improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device management service performs multiple functions including token generation, proximity data collection coordination, contextual identity determination, and assignment execution, consolidating complex operations into a single multi-functional system that manages the entire automated onboarding process
Data Source
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AI summary
A device management service at a provider network may assign a contextual identity to a newly installed device at a client network based on proximity of other devices to the new device. When a new device is installed on a client network, the device broadcasts a request for proximity data. When another device receives the request, it generates proximity data. For example, it may measure a strength of the radio signal received from the new device, which varies depending on how close the devices are. The new device receives proximity data from the other devices on the client network. The new device then transmits the proximity data to a device management service. The device management service uses an algorithm to determine an estimated location of the new device based on the proximity data. The device management service determines a contextual identity of the new device based on the estimated location.