IoT Task Transfer Mechanism for Failing Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
IoT devices are unable to autonomously transfer tasks to other devices in a network when they run out of resources or are unable to complete tasks, leading to incomplete or unexecuted tasks.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a task transfer module and interpreter module in IoT devices that allow them to communicate and autonomously transfer tasks to other capable devices within the network by comparing task requirements with device capabilities and configuring tasks on accepting devices without user intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If tasks are confined to be executed by the initiating device only, then device autonomy and simplicity are maintained, but task completion reliability deteriorates when the device runs out of resources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a task transfer mechanism that acts as an intermediary between the failing device and potential recipient devices. When a device determines it cannot complete a task (e.g., due to battery depletion), it automatically transfers the task to another device in the network that has the capability to execute it. This mediator mechanism resolves the contradiction by maintaining task completion reliability without requiring each individual device to be fully autonomous in all scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal task execution capability across multiple devices in the network. Instead of confining tasks to a single device, the system enables any device with appropriate capabilities to execute transferred tasks. This multi-functionality approach ensures that tasks can be completed reliably even when the original device fails, while keeping individual device complexity manageable through standardized transfer protocols.
2Productivity
If manual reconfiguration is required when task transfer is needed, then device complexity is reduced, but user time and operational efficiency are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service functionality where devices automatically detect when they cannot complete a task and initiate the transfer process without user intervention. The failing device autonomously identifies suitable recipient devices, transfers the task, and notifies the user of the completion. This self-service capability dramatically improves operational efficiency by eliminating manual reconfiguration steps while the standardized automation protocols keep device complexity manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-establishing device capability profiles and maintaining a registry of available devices before task failure occurs. When a device determines it cannot complete a task, the transfer mechanism already has the information needed to quickly identify suitable recipients, eliminating the need for real-time decision-making and manual intervention. This preliminary preparation improves productivity while keeping the actual transfer operation simple.
3Adaptability or versatility
If tasks are transferred across devices with different manufacturers and formats, then system versatility is improved, but compatibility and configuration complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies homogeneity by standardizing the task transfer protocol and data formats across devices from different manufacturers. All devices use a common interface for task description, capability declaration, and transfer signaling. This standardization enables cross-manufacturer compatibility while keeping configuration complexity low, as devices don't need to be individually configured for each transfer scenario - the standardized protocol handles format conversion automatically.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a universal task representation format that can describe tasks applicable to multiple device types regardless of manufacturer. This universal format allows a single task definition to be transferred to and executed by diverse devices (smartphones, tablets, wearables, etc.) without requiring device-specific configuration. The versatility is improved through broad device support while configuration complexity remains manageable through the universal standard.
Data Source
AI summary
In a transfer of tasks between devices in a network, a failing device determines that it will not complete a task. The failing device compares the requirements of the task with sets of device capabilities on a device list, where each set is associated with a device in the network. The failing device determines that the requirements of the task matches, a set of device capabilities associated with a given device, and in response, sends a request to transfer the given task to the given device. When a rejection of the request is received, the failing device compares the requirements of the task with remaining sets of device capabilities on the device list, determines that the requirements of the task matches a second set of device capabilities associated with a second given device, and in response, sends a second request to transfer the task to the second given device.