Edge Device Configuration via QR Code and NFC Standards
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing edge devices require custom hardware for remote configuration, which limits their deployment and management, especially in scenarios where standard, off-the-shelf equipment is preferred.
Innovation Solution
Edge devices are configured using standard industrial components that can decode QR-codes or utilize NFC for self-configuration, allowing them to obtain and apply configuration data from external sources, such as QR-codes or NFC devices, enabling remote setup without custom hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If custom hardware is used for remote configuration, then configuration capability is achieved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the configuration capability from custom hardware by using standard QR code technology and NFC standards that are already widely available. The configuration function is separated from proprietary hardware and implemented through universally understood communication protocols, allowing any device with standard components to perform remote configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces QR codes and NFC as intermediary communication mechanisms between the configuration source and the edge device. These intermediaries translate complex configuration data into simple, standard formats that can be easily read and processed by devices with common hardware components, eliminating the need for custom configuration hardware.
2Ease of operation
If custom hardware is used for remote configuration, then configuration capability is achieved, but ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using QR codes and NFC technology that serve multiple purposes across different device types and manufacturers. These standard technologies can be implemented in any edge device regardless of manufacturer or specific hardware architecture, significantly simplifying the manufacturing process compared to custom proprietary solutions.
3Ease of manufacture
If standard components are used, then ease of manufacture improves, but configuration capability may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service configuration where the edge device automatically reads QR codes or NFC tags and processes configuration data without requiring complex custom hardware or manual intervention. The device uses its existing standard camera or NFC antenna to autonomously complete the configuration process, maintaining full capability while using standard components.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for externally configuring a device, wherein the device is devised for configuring, comprising positioning in a sufficient proximity external to the device a portable object provided with a representation of a configuration data for the device, wherein the representation is according to a standard non-custom industrial practice, further obtaining by the device the representation from the portable object, deciphering the representation into the configuration data by the device, and responsively configuring the device according to the configuration data by the device, and an apparatus for performing the same.