Hub Switching for Mobile IoT Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing home and office automation systems face limitations due to the restricted range and number of controllable devices in wireless networks, leading to device inoperability when moving out of range from the control hub, and complex multi-hub networks require manual device pairing.
Innovation Solution
A redundant star network system with multiple hubs equipped with short and long-range wireless transceivers and processors that periodically test peripheral devices, allowing automatic handover of control when a device is out of range, and includes a cloud server for user notification and system operation information storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single control hub is used, then the network structure is simple, but the device becomes non-operational when moving outside the range of the control hub
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple control hubs into a coordinated network where hubs work together to maintain device operability. When a device moves outside one hub's range, another hub in the network takes over control, ensuring continuous operation without requiring complex manual reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic hub selection where the controlling hub changes automatically based on the device's location. The system dynamically determines which hub should control which devices, allowing the network to adapt to moving devices while maintaining simple operation for users.
2Reliability
If multiple control hubs are used, then the device remains operational when moving between ranges, but devices have to be manually paired to each network hub
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automatic device-to-hub assignment where devices self-configure into the appropriate hub's control range. The system automatically determines which hub should control which device based on location and network conditions, eliminating the need for manual pairing while maintaining reliable operation across multiple hubs.
3Length of stationary object
If multiple control hubs are used, then the control range is extended, but the network configuration becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a coordinator entity that manages the multi-hub network automatically. This intermediary handles the complex tasks of determining device-to-hub assignments and managing communication between hubs, thereby extending the control range while keeping the configuration process simple for users.
4Reliability
If a device moves outside the range of its control hub, then communication is lost, but adding more hubs increases network complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes each control hub universal by enabling every hub to potentially control every device in the network. Each hub is equipped with the capability to take over control of any device, not just devices initially assigned to it. This multi-functionality ensures communication continuity when devices move between ranges while maintaining a manageable number of hubs.
Data Source
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AI summary
A system for efficient hub switching of mobile network devices is disclosed. The system includes a peripheral device (PD), a first control hub, and a second control hub. The PD includes a wireless long range transceiver and a microcontroller, and is controlled wirelessly by the first control hub. The first control hub and second network hub each have a wireless long range transceiver, hardware processors, and hardware memory that stores system operation information. The system operation information includes instructions for controlling the PD. Additionally, the system operation information includes instructions for listening for a response from the PD. The listening instructions include an expected response timeframe after the control instructions are sent. The system operation information further includes instructions for requesting the second control hub control the PD. Furthermore, the system operation information includes instructions for taking over control of the PD.