IoT Device Automatic Pairing via CPE Mediated Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
IoT devices with limited capabilities, lacking user interfaces and web server hosting capabilities, require complex and intervention-heavy pairing and provisioning processes, especially when they do not have dedicated Ethernet ports or Wi-Fi capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A method and system where a client device receives configuration information via electronic messages, including a unique password and service access details, allowing it to automatically pair and authenticate with a remote configuration server or web portal using CPE or a portable device, minimizing user intervention through firmware programming and Bluetooth or Wi-Fi communications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual pairing and provisioning processes are used for IoT devices, then user control and security are improved, but operation complexity and user intervention requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-provisions IoT devices with unique identifiers, cryptographic keys, and service information during manufacturing. This preliminary configuration enables automatic connection to CPE and configuration servers without requiring manual user setup, thereby maintaining security while reducing operational complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The IoT device autonomously performs provisioning and configuration by automatically connecting to CPE using pre-configured credentials, authenticating with the configuration server, and retrieving configuration parameters without human intervention. This self-service approach maintains security through automated authentication while eliminating manual pairing steps
2Ease of operation
If automated configuration is implemented for IoT devices, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity and firmware requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the configuration system into separate components: the IoT device contains only essential firmware for automatic connection and authentication, while the CPE and configuration server handle complex provisioning logic. This segmentation reduces firmware complexity in the IoT device while enabling automated configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The CPE acts as an intermediary between the IoT device and the configuration server. It receives the IoT device's connection request, authenticates it, and mediates the configuration process by relaying information between the device and server. This intermediary approach simplifies the IoT device firmware while enabling automated configuration
3Adaptability or versatility
If CPE-based configuration service is used, then connectivity and authentication capabilities are improved, but requirement for additional equipment at customer premises increases
Solution Approach 1:
The CPE is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides Internet connectivity, hosts the configuration service, authenticates IoT devices, and relays configuration data. By consolidating these functions into a single device already present in most homes, the patent avoids requiring additional specialized equipment while enhancing connectivity and authentication capabilities
Data Source
AI summary
A method of configuring a client device at a customer premises is provided. An electronic message is received from a vendor of a client device with customer premise equipment (CPE) at the customer premises or a portable communication device. The electronic message provides configuration information for the client device. The configuration information includes a password and an access name of a service for use in configuring the client device via communications with a remote configuration server. The service is made available at the customer premises via the CPE or the communication device so that the client device automatically pairs to the service and is authenticated with the password to the configuration server via Internet connectivity capability of the CPE or portable communication device so that the client device may be configured. The client device has firmware preprogramed to automatically and securely access the service, when detected, at the customer premises.