Mobile App Dynamic Channel Selection for Building Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional remote control devices for building automation systems are expensive and limited in functionality, as they often require direct communication with a control panel within a specific distance, restricting their ability to manage multiple systems effectively.
Innovation Solution
A mobile device with multiple communication channels and a stored application that can directly communicate with a control panel, dynamically selecting a communication link based on a predefined hierarchy to establish a connection, allowing for various operational modes depending on the channel used.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional remote control devices are used to communicate with the control panel, then the device can control the building automation system, but the device is limited to working only within a certain distance of the control panel
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a third-party server as an intermediary between the mobile device and the control panel. The mobile device communicates with the server over a network, which then relays commands to the control panel, enabling remote control beyond direct communication range while maintaining system security through the server's mediation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from direct local communication (spatial dimension) to network-based remote communication (network dimension). By adding the network communication layer, the system enables control from any location with network access, effectively adding a new dimension to the communication architecture
2Length of moving object
If a mobile device communicates with a third-party server instead of the control panel directly, then the device can operate beyond distance limitations, but the functionality of the mobile device with respect to management of the BAS is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal communication interface that supports multiple communication protocols and modes. The system can switch between direct control panel communication for full functionality and server-mediated communication for remote access, making the mobile device adaptable to different operational requirements without sacrificing capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables dynamic switching between different communication modes. The system can adaptively choose to communicate directly with the control panel when nearby for full functionality, or route through the server when remote, providing flexible, context-dependent operation that optimizes both distance and functionality
3Ease of operation
If conventional remote control devices are used, then the device can control the system, but the device is expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a standard mobile device (smartphone or tablet) that the user already possesses, rather than requiring a specialized expensive remote control. The mobile device's existing camera, processor, and display are leveraged to create control functionality, eliminating the need to purchase dedicated expensive control equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the control system compatible with universal mobile devices that users already own. By designing the control application to work on standard smartphones and tablets, the system eliminates the need for expensive proprietary remote controls while maintaining full control capabilities
Data Source
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AI summary
A remote control for a monitoring system of a building is provided including a mobile device having a plurality of communication channels and a media storage area. An application is stored in the media storage area of the mobile device. The application is configured to communicate with a control panel of the monitoring system. The application dynamically selects a communication channel to establish a communication link with the control panel based on a predetermined hierarchy. The application operates in one of a plurality of modes based on the communication channel selected.