Distributed Service Management System for Remote Device Repair

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Solution Overview

Problem

The shift from traditional brick-and-mortar retail to online and telephone sales of devices has resulted in a lack of available in-store service and repair options, necessitating systems and methods for managing distributed sales, service, and repair operations, including remote and on-site solutions.

Innovation Solution

A computer-implemented method and system for establishing client accounts, facilitating remote service sessions, and rebooting devices to normal or safe modes, which involves receiving client personal and device data, generating subscription and account data, and enabling remote service sessions between client devices and provider systems, allowing for remote authentication, service request handling, and technician-assisted repairs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If online and telephone sales of devices are adopted, then sales reach and convenience are improved, but in-store service and repair availability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesales reachVSAvoidservice availability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a centralized service center as an intermediary between remote customers and service technicians. This service center coordinates remote service requests, manages technician assignments, and facilitates communication between parties, enabling online sales to maintain service quality through remote troubleshooting and diagnostics rather than requiring physical store presence

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical system of in-person service at physical stores with electronic and communication-based systems. Remote diagnostics, software-based troubleshooting, and electronic service management replace the need for customers to physically visit stores, maintaining service availability while supporting online sales channels

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If in-store service and repair operations are maintained, then service quality is improved, but operational complexity and costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice qualityVSAvoidoperational complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments service operations into distinct functional units: remote diagnostics, troubleshooting, parts management, and customer coordination. This segmentation allows each function to be optimized independently and managed through specialized systems, reducing overall operational complexity while maintaining comprehensive service quality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The service center is designed as a universal platform that handles multiple service functions (diagnostics, troubleshooting, parts ordering, scheduling) through integrated systems. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate operational systems, reducing complexity while maintaining service quality across diverse device types and issues

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS8832424B1Systems and methods for managing distributed sales, service and repair operations
Publication Date: 2014.09.09 MILMAN DAVID
  • US8832424B1 patent drawing
  • US8832424B1 patent drawing
  • US8832424B1 patent drawing

AI summary

The systems and methods of the present disclosure are generally related to managing distributed sales, service and repair operations. In particular, the systems and methods of the present disclosure relate to managing a distributed network of sales, service and/or repair operations that include automated features.