Automated Field Device Location via User Interaction Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual recording of field device locations is labor-intensive and prone to errors, and existing solutions like geo-tagged data aggregation are ineffective for field devices with limited public interest.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that utilize a positioning device to determine the location of field devices by combining interaction indications from users with location signals, allowing for automated storage and retrieval of field device locations in a database.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If manual recording of field device locations is used, then the implementation is simple and requires minimal technology, but the labor effort is high and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service location recording where field devices automatically transmit their location data through interaction indications. Users interact with field devices (e.g., unlocking, using services), and these interactions automatically generate location records without requiring manual data entry, thus eliminating labor-intensive recording while maintaining simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical recording processes with electronic communication systems. Field devices equipped with communication modules automatically send location data electronically, substituting the manual writing/recording mechanism with automated electronic data transmission and processing
2Extent of automation
If geo-tagged data aggregation from public sources is used, then automated location determination is achieved, but it does not work well for field devices with limited public interest
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces an intermediary mechanism where user interactions with field devices serve as the mediator for location determination. Instead of relying on public geo-tagged data, the patent uses the interaction itself (e.g., unlocking, transaction) as the trigger that automatically records and transmits location information, making it applicable to any field device that can log interactions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-equipping field devices with interaction logging capabilities and communication modules. Before location determination is needed, the system is already in place to automatically capture and transmit location data when interactions occur, eliminating the need for post-hoc data aggregation
3Measurement precision
If automated location determination using interaction indications is implemented, then labor effort is reduced and accuracy improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves universality by designing field devices that perform multiple functions: their primary function (e.g., locking, dispensing, metering) plus the additional function of automatic location recording and transmission. This multi-functionality allows the same device to serve both its operational purpose and location determination without adding separate dedicated equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the location determination function with the existing field device operations. The interaction indication system that was already necessary for device operation is combined with location data capture and transmission, creating an integrated system that reduces overall complexity compared to separate dedicated location tracking equipment
Data Source
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AI summary
It is presented a method for determining a location of a field device. The method is performed in a location determination device and comprises the steps of: receiving a signal comprising location coordinates of a user having interacted with the field device; obtaining an indication of interaction between the user and the field device; and determining the location of the field device to correspond to the location coordinates. A corresponding location determination device, computer program and computer program product are also presented.