Embedded Sensor Configuration via Portable Fob Proximity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing home systems employing wireless communications, such as LR-WPAN, require complex mechanisms for associating sensors with controllers, often needing multiple people or devices to be present in the same location for configuration, which is inefficient and inconvenient.
Innovation Solution
Embedding sensors, controls, or display devices within household objects with integrated wireless ports and proximity sensors, allowing configuration through a portable fob that communicates wirelessly with the server when proximate, enabling self-configuration of the system without the need for multiple devices or personnel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional association mechanisms are used for sensors and controllers, then reliable device pairing can be achieved, but the configuration process requires multiple people or devices to be present at the same location, increasing system complexity and reducing ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a portable fob as an intermediary device that mediates the association between sensors and controllers. The fob contains a proximity sensor that detects when it is near a sensor, triggering a wireless communication sequence that automatically pairs the devices without requiring manual intervention from multiple people or complex procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-configuration through automatic detection and pairing mechanisms. When the portable fob approaches a sensor, the proximity sensor automatically detects the fob's presence and initiates the association process with the controller, allowing the system to configure itself without external assistance.
2Adaptability or versatility
If sensors are embedded within household objects, then the system becomes less obtrusive and more integrated, but the configuration process becomes more difficult without accessible physical interfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical or physical configuration interfaces with wireless communication mechanisms. Instead of requiring physical access to configuration ports or buttons on embedded sensors, the system uses wireless ports to communicate configuration data between the portable fob, sensors, and controllers, eliminating the need for physical access to embedded components.
Solution Approach 2:
The portable fob serves as an intermediary that bridges the gap between the user and embedded sensors. It provides a portable configuration interface that can wirelessly communicate with embedded sensors, making configuration accessible without requiring physical access to the embedded components within household objects.
3Ease of operation
If wireless communication is used for sensor configuration, then physical access and multiple personnel are eliminated, but reliable device association and pairing become more challenging without physical connection mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates proximity sensors that provide feedback about the spatial relationship between the portable fob and sensors. This feedback mechanism ensures reliable device association by confirming that the fob is properly positioned near the sensor before initiating wireless configuration, thereby maintaining reliability without physical connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The portable fob acts as a reliable intermediary that manages wireless device association. It coordinates the pairing process between sensors and controllers, ensuring reliable association through structured communication protocols and proximity verification, replacing the need for physical connection mechanisms.
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
Facilitates efficient and user-friendly configuration of home systems by allowing sensors and devices to be integrated within household objects, enabling wireless communication and self-configuration using a portable fob, enhancing convenience and reducing the complexity of system setup.
Implementation Method 1
a second port, including, for example, a proximity sensor, adapted to communicate with a fob when the fob is proximate to the second port
Implementation Method 2
a first wireless port adapted to wirelessly communicate with a server
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor node or a control device node is for a home system including a server and a fob. The node includes a household object, and a sensor, control or display device embedded in or substantially within the household object. The sensor, control or display device includes a first wireless port adapted to wirelessly communicate with the server, a second port adapted to communicate with the fob when the fob is proximate to the second port, and a processor operatively associated with the first wireless port and the second port. The processor is adapted to receive proximity information from the second port and responsively communicate with the server through the first wireless port, in order to configure the sensor, control or display device.