Mobile Application for Remote Outdoor Grill Control via Cloud Server
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing outdoor appliances, such as grills and smokers, require manual operation and lack remote control capabilities beyond limited Bluetooth connectivity, restricting users' ability to control functions and access information from a distance.
Innovation Solution
A software application and user interface that enables remote control of electronically-controlled appliances by receiving user inputs, generating instructions, and sending them to the appliance for execution, allowing communication with remote computing systems and cloud services for advanced control and monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If BLUETOOTH radio is used for remote control, then wireless communication capability is improved, but control range is limited and functionality is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a server as an intermediary component that relays communication between the mobile device and the outdoor appliance. The server receives control signals from the mobile device via network communication and forwards them to the appliance, enabling extended range control beyond direct BLUETOOTH limitations while maintaining wireless operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from direct short-range BLUETOOTH communication to network-based communication through a server, adding a dimensional layer to the communication architecture. This allows control signals to traverse longer distances via internet or network infrastructure rather than being constrained to direct line-of-sight proximity
2Device complexity
If manual controls are used, then device simplicity is maintained, but user presence at appliance is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical controls (dials, knobs, buttons) with electronic control systems that can be operated remotely via mobile devices. The appliance incorporates electronic components such as motors, sensors, and communication modules that enable automated and remote operation, substituting the need for physical presence at the appliance
3Measurement precision
If electronic controls are added, then control precision is improved, but user must still be present at appliance
Solution Approach 1:
The server acts as a communication intermediary that enables remote operation of electronic controls. The server receives precise control commands from the mobile device and transmits them to the appliance's electronic control system, maintaining both control precision and remote operation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual interface on the mobile device that replicates the appliance's control functions. The mobile application provides a digital copy of the control interface, allowing users to interact with the appliance's electronic controls remotely as if physically present, thereby enabling precise control from any location
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments are directed to controlling an electronically-controlled appliance using a software application and providing a user interface for controlling an electronically-controlled appliance. In one scenario, a computer system receives an indication from a remote computing system indicating that an electronically-controlled appliance is communicably connected to the remote computing system. The computer system provides a notification in the software application indicating that the electronically-controlled appliance is available to receive instructions, and receives a user input at the software application indicating that certain functions are to be performed by the electronically-controlled appliance. The computer system further generates instructions configured to control the electronically-controlled appliance based on the functions specified in the received user input, and sends the generated instructions to the electronically-controlled appliance to perform the specified functions. These functions are then interpreted and carried out on the electronically-controlled appliance via the hardware controller.