Instant Messaging Interface for Remote Measurement Instrument Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for remotely controlling measurement instruments using mobile devices are complex and require special software installations and network configurations, making it difficult to securely and comfortably control such instruments.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing a protected local network with a measurement instrument equipped with local instant messaging software, allowing control via a standard instant messaging app on a mobile device, enabling communication through an instant messaging server, and supporting protocols like VISA and SCPI for remote control without needing special software on the mobile device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional remote control software is installed on a mobile device to control a measurement instrument, then remote control functionality is achieved, but the complexity of software installation and network configuration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling any mobile device with a standard instant messaging application to control measurement instruments, eliminating the need for device-specific remote control software. The instant messaging server acts as a universal intermediary that any mobile device can connect to, making the remote control system universally accessible without requiring special software installations or network configurations on each device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an instant messaging server as an intermediary between the mobile device and the measurement instrument. This mediator handles the complex network communication and protocol translation, allowing the mobile device to simply send instant messaging commands while the server manages the connection to the instrument's control interface, thereby simplifying the user's task.
2Adaptability or versatility
If special remote control software is installed on a mobile device, then the mobile device can communicate with the measurement instrument, but the ease of use is reduced due to additional installation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The instant messaging application serves multiple functions: it acts as the remote control interface, handles authentication, manages communication protocols, and provides the user interface. By leveraging the ubiquity of instant messaging apps on mobile devices, the system achieves versatility in controlling measurement instruments while maintaining ease of use, as users already have these apps installed and familiar with their operation.
3Reliability
If the measurement instrument is located in a protected local network, then network security is improved, but remote access from outside the network becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The instant messaging server acts as a secure intermediary that receives commands from external mobile devices and forwards them to the measurement instrument within the protected local network. The server handles authentication, encryption, and protocol translation, allowing external access while maintaining the security boundary of the local network. The instrument remains protected behind the firewall while still being remotely controllable through the mediated connection.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for remote control of a measurement instrument comprises a protected local network and a measurement instrument connected to the protected local network. The measurement instrument is configured to execute a local instant messaging software. The local instant messaging software forms a remote control interface for the measurement instrument.