Automated Device Commissioning via Machine-Readable Code

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Solution Overview

Problem

Manual entry of long sequences of numbers and letters for high-security applications is error-prone and inefficient, with some tasks being impractical for conventional automated systems to reassign.

Innovation Solution

A system and method using machine-readable code, such as QR Codes, where a hand-held device captures and decodes the code to access configuration information, enabling a controller to commission device applications without manual input, leveraging IEEE 802.15.4 protocol and pattern recognition algorithms for reliable operation in various conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If manual entry of long sequences is used for high-security applications, then security level is improved, but error rate increases and efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecurity levelVSAvoidentry accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical manual entry system with an automated optical recognition system. The camera captures an image of the code, and image processing algorithms automatically extract and verify the configuration information, eliminating manual typing entirely while maintaining security through the use of complex machine-readable codes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses a machine-readable code (visual copy) that contains encoded configuration information. Instead of manually transcribing long sequences, the system captures a visual copy of the code through the camera and automatically decodes it, ensuring accurate transfer of information without human intervention.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

2Reliability

If manual entry of long sequences is used, then security level is improved, but time consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesecurity levelVSAvoidcommissioning time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the time-consuming manual entry process with automated image capture and processing. The camera instantly captures the code, and algorithms rapidly decode the configuration information, reducing commissioning time from several minutes of manual typing to a few seconds of automated processing while maintaining high security through complex coded information.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Extent of automation

If conventional automated systems are used to reassign tasks, then automation level is improved, but task reassignment becomes impractical for some operations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomation levelVSAvoidtask reassignment capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary machine-readable code that bridges the gap between physical devices and automated systems. The code serves as a mediator that contains all necessary configuration information, allowing conventional automated systems (camera, processor) to reassign the task of information entry from manual to automated operation across various device types.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal commissioning solution that works across multiple device types (smartphones, tablets, cameras, computers) and various environmental conditions. The machine-readable code can be scanned by any device with an image capturing capability, making the automation approach universally applicable to different tasks and devices without requiring task-specific customization.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Productivity

If manual entry processes are redesigned to reduce steps, then efficiency is improved, but error reduction is limited without automated instruments

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveworkflow efficiencyVSAvoiderror rate

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual entry instruments with automated optical recognition and processing instruments. The system uses camera-based image capture followed by algorithmic code decoding and verification, completely eliminating human involvement in the information entry process and achieving both high efficiency and near-zero error rates through automated instrument operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS9202037B2System and method for using machine readable code to commission device applications

Publication Date: 2015.12.01 HAIER US APPLIANCE SOLUTIONS INC

AI summary

A system for using machine readable code to commission a device application includes a controller, an image capturing device, and at least one processor. The at least one processor is programmed to receive an image acquired from the image capturing device, wherein the image includes a code, the at least one processor is also programmed to access information from the code, and send the information accessed from the code to the controller, wherein the information enables the controller to commission a device application.