Drone Data Backup Using Li-Fi/Wi-Fi Switching for Remote Devices

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wireless communication technologies like Li-Fi face challenges in maintaining continuous communication due to topographical constraints and line-of-sight requirements, making it difficult to back up data from remotely located devices without network infrastructure.

Innovation Solution

A drone-based system that switches between Li-Fi and Wi-Fi communication protocols to establish a stable connection with devices, collecting data and then transferring it to a cloud platform via network infrastructure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If Li-Fi communication is used for high-speed data transfer, then data transfer speed is improved, but communication reliability deteriorates due to line-of-sight requirements and topographical constraints

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transfer speedVSAvoidcommunication reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically switches between Li-Fi and Wi-Fi communication protocols based on real-time connection quality and environmental conditions. The drone attempts Li-Fi first for high-speed transfer, then seamlessly transitions to Wi-Fi if line-of-sight is blocked, ensuring continuous operation despite changing conditions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The communication system changes its operational parameters by switching between two different protocols (Li-Fi and Wi-Fi) depending on the situation. This allows the system to optimize for speed when conditions permit Li-Fi, and for reliability when Wi-Fi is needed

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If a drone is used to reach remote devices, then accessibility to devices without network infrastructure is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccessibility to remote devicesVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The drone is designed as a multi-functional platform that performs multiple tasks: data collection from remote devices, wireless data transmission using dual protocols (Li-Fi and Wi-Fi), and autonomous navigation to network infrastructure. This consolidates what would otherwise require separate systems into a single versatile device

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

Solution Approach 2:

The drone acts as an intermediary between remote devices without network infrastructure and the cloud platform. It collects data from isolated devices, transmits it wirelessly, and delivers it to network infrastructure, thereby mediating the connection between otherwise disconnected systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If continuous communication is maintained from remote locations, then data backup reliability is improved, but communication stability deteriorates due to lack of network infrastructure

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata backup reliabilityVSAvoidcommunication stability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by establishing multiple communication protocols (Li-Fi and Wi-Fi) before data transfer is needed. The drone attempts Li-Fi connection first, and if that fails, immediately switches to Wi-Fi, ensuring continuous operation without interruption

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system prepares backup communication channels in advance. By having both Li-Fi and Wi-Fi capabilities ready, the system cushions against potential communication failures, ensuring that data backup can proceed reliably even when one protocol fails due to environmental factors

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

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

Ensures uninterrupted data backup from remotely located devices by overcoming line-of-sight obstacles and enabling high-speed data transfer even in areas without stable network connectivity.

Implementation Method 1

the device is configured to emit light-based communications substantially vertically

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight-based communication: Light

Implementation Method 2

receiving data from the device via the light-based communications channel

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight-based communication reception: Photoelectric Effect

Implementation Method 3

receiving the data from the device via the radiofrequency-based communications channel

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRadiofrequency-based communication: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS20250343596A1Non-Interrupted Remote Device Backup to a Cloud Platform
Publication Date: 2025.11.06 DELL PROD LP
  • US20250343596A1 patent drawing
  • US20250343596A1 patent drawing
  • US20250343596A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A system can physically position the system substantially above a device, wherein the device is configured to emit light-based communications substantially vertically, and wherein the device omits internet connectivity. The system can attempt to establish a light-based communications channel with the device to produce a result. The system can, based on the result indicating success in establishing the light-based communications channel with the device, receive data from the device via the light-based communications channel. The system can, based on the result indicating failure in establishing the light-based communications channel with the device, establish a radiofrequency-based communications channel with the device, and receive the data from the device via the radiofrequency-based communications channel. The system can, after receiving the data, physically move the system to a location where the system is configured to establish a network connection. The system can back up the data via the network connection.