Mesh Range Testing With Mock Devices Before Energy System Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for range testing mock devices in energy management systems using mesh topology are inadequate, requiring inefficient installation processes that consume time and resources.
Innovation Solution
A method involving supplying power to mock devices, adding them to a range test list via a first wireless protocol, positioning them in the intended locations, and triggering a range test via a second wireless protocol to determine communication effectiveness between the mock devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional methods are used for range testing mock devices, then installation processes can be completed, but the processes consume excessive time and resources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing range testing with mock devices before actual device installation. The system allows installers to test communication ranges and signal strength using mock devices that simulate actual devices, enabling optimization of device placement and communication setup in advance. This preliminary testing phase identifies potential communication issues before real devices are installed, reducing rework and installation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses mock devices as copies of actual devices to perform range testing. These mock devices replicate the communication characteristics and physical properties of actual devices, allowing testers to evaluate mesh topology performance without risking damage to expensive actual devices. The copies enable safe, reversible testing of various scenarios including signal obstruction and interference conditions.
2Reliability
If range testing is performed without mock devices, then actual devices can be installed directly, but communication issues may arise after installation requiring rework
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary range testing using mock devices to validate communication reliability before actual device installation. By testing mesh topology communication paths, signal strength, and device discoverability in advance, the system ensures that actual devices will communicate reliably once installed. This preliminary validation prevents post-installation communication failures and reduces the need for reconfiguration or relocation of actual devices.
Solution Approach 2:
Mock devices serve as intermediaries between the testing process and actual devices. They mediate the range testing process by providing a safe, controllable environment to test communication protocols and mesh topology performance. The intermediaries allow testers to evaluate communication reliability without exposing actual devices to potential installation errors or communication failures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple wireless protocols are used for range testing, then communication compatibility can be verified, but the testing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The range testing system implements multi-functionality by supporting multiple wireless protocols (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, Thread) within a single unified testing platform. The system automatically detects which protocol each mock device and actual device uses and configures appropriate testing parameters. This universal approach allows comprehensive protocol compatibility verification without requiring separate testing equipment for each protocol, managing complexity through automation and unified interface design.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for range testing mock devices using mesh topology are provided herein. For example, a method for range testing mock devices using mesh topology comprises supplying power to a plurality of mock devices corresponding to a plurality of actual devices in an energy management system, adding the plurality of mock devices to a range test list via a first wireless protocol, positioning the plurality of mock devices in a location where the plurality of actual devices will be installed, and triggering a range test via a second wireless protocol different than the first wireless protocol to determine if the plurality of mock devices have communication therebetween.