Architectural Covering Gateway Placement Using Proximity Metrics
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for connecting architectural structural coverings, such as blinds and shades, to a data network for remote operation are often cumbersome and require a pre-established data network, making the installation process time-consuming and dependent on network availability.
Innovation Solution
A method that allows the installer's device to connect to the gateway via a direct connection, such as Bluetooth, and send a structure identifier to determine proximity metrics, enabling the placement of the gateway without a pre-existing data network, and subsequently connects the gateway to the architectural structural coverings once the home network is set up.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional data network connection methods are used for gateway setup, then remote operation capability is achieved, but the installation process becomes time-consuming and requires pre-established network infrastructure
Solution Approach 1:
The installer's device establishes a direct connection with the gateway before the home data network is set up, performing the initial configuration and proximity metric determination in advance. This preliminary action allows the gateway to be pre-configured with structure identifiers and covering associations, eliminating the need for trial-and-error placement after network installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary direct connection mechanism (using protocols like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi Direct) between the installer's device and the gateway, bypassing the requirement for a pre-established home data network. This intermediary communication channel enables configuration to occur independently of the final network infrastructure.
2Reliability
If trial-and-error method is used for gateway placement, then connectivity is eventually achieved, but the process becomes cumbersome and dependent on data network availability
Solution Approach 1:
The gateway determines proximity metrics (such as signal strength or distance measurements) and communicates this feedback to the installer's device. This real-time feedback mechanism allows the installer to make informed placement decisions immediately, rather than relying on trial-and-error methods where connectivity is only tested after placement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical trial-and-error placement process with an information-based system using proximity metrics and digital feedback. Instead of physically moving the gateway and testing connectivity repeatedly, the system uses wireless signal measurements and software-based determination to guide optimal placement from the outset.
3Adaptability or versatility
If no data network is available during installation, then gateway placement cannot be tested, but this also removes the constraint requiring network setup before installation
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts the verification method based on network availability. When no data network is available, the system uses direct connection protocols and proximity metrics for verification. Once the home network is established, the system transitions to network-based verification methods, seamlessly adapting to the available infrastructure throughout the installation process.
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques for configuring an architectural structural covering system are described. The system can include a number of coverings and a number of gateways. A gateway can be communicatively coupled with a covering, whereby remote controls of the covering can be effectuated via the gateway. To set-up such system, proximity metrics between coverings and the gateway can be processed and presented at a user interface to indicate the quality of the placement of the gateway in relation to a connectivity range to a space that includes the coverings and in relation to the strength of the connectivity to each covering. After the placement of the gateway is complete, the gateway can be connected to a data network and can receive from a computer system a configuration of the coverings and an assignment indicating which covering the gateway is to control.