Mobile Data Gathering with Tree-Structured Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Field data gathering using mobile devices is often tedious and prone to errors, and existing applications require significant reprogramming when data requirements change, leading to lost productivity due to time lags in retooling.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for flexible data gathering using mobile computing devices that allows central offices to configure data formats with a tree-structured data package, enabling operators to collect only necessary data using various input modules, which are then aggregated and transmitted to the central office.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If paper-based order sheets are used for data gathering, then data collection can be performed without specialized equipment, but the process requires repeat visits and is not environmentally friendly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical paper-based data collection system with an electronic mobile computing device system. The mobile device captures data electronically through various input modules (camera, microphone, sensors, text input) and transmits it directly to the central office, eliminating the need for physical paper sheets and repeat visits for data correction or supplementation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy of the data collection process where the mobile device captures images, audio, and sensor data that replicate traditional paper-based information gathering. These digital copies can be instantly transmitted and stored, replacing the physical copying and manual handling of paper documents.
2Productivity
If fixed applications are used for data gathering, then data collection can be automated, but the applications require reprogramming when data requirements change
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic data collection system where the central office can remotely configure and update the types of data to be collected. The mobile computing device receives configuration parameters from the central office that define what data points are required, allowing the system to adapt to changing data requirements without physical reprogramming or retooling in the field.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal data collection platform that can handle multiple types of data gathering tasks through a single mobile device. The system provides various data input modules (camera, microphone, sensors, text input) that can be activated based on the configuration received from the central office, making the device adaptable to different data collection needs without requiring separate specialized applications.
3Reliability
If comprehensive data gathering is performed in the field, then all necessary information can be collected in one visit, but the process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the central office pre-configure the exact data requirements before field deployment. The mobile device receives a configuration package that specifies precisely what data points are needed, allowing the field operator to collect only the necessary information in a single visit without unnecessary complexity or time-wasting on irrelevant data gathering tasks.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for field data gathering and which provide flexible configuration options for a central office. The system, run from, mobile computing devices, provides a free-flowing data gathering experience while only requiring what the central office needs from the field. The central office can configure the system to accept different types of data by way of different data input means available to the mobile computing device. Only the data needed by the central office need be collected by the mobile device operator. The data format is defined by the central office and is uploaded to each of the relevant mobile computing devices for use by the operators. Once each data set has been collected by an operator, the data package with the data set is scheduled for transmission to the central office once a connection with the central office can be made.