Modular Wireless Interface for Arbitrary Device Network Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for connecting electrical devices to computer networks are cumbersome and costly, requiring significant re-engineering, additional hardware, and complex software development, leading to poor user experiences and limited functionality due to vendor inexperience and high burdens on support systems.
Innovation Solution
A standardized modular wireless communications interface with a programmable controller, allowing devices to be easily connected to networks through optical or wireless configuration, reducing development and approval burdens for vendors and enhancing user experience by enabling remote monitoring and control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional network interface hardware and software are added to devices, then network connectivity is achieved, but device complexity and development cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a centralized network service provider as an intermediary that handles all network communication functions. Instead of embedding network interfaces directly in devices, the service provider acts as a mediator that receives data from devices via simple interfaces and manages complex network protocols, routing, and communication on behalf of the devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts network communication functionality from individual devices and consolidates it into a centralized service provider. This separation removes the burden of network interface hardware, wireless approvals testing, and complex software development from device manufacturers, allowing them to focus solely on their core product functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If vendors add communications interfaces and processing capabilities to devices, then network control is enabled, but development effort and support burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The service provider performs self-service by automatically handling network configuration, protocol translation, and communication routing without requiring device-specific development. The system includes automatic data format translation and protocol conversion, eliminating the need for vendors to develop custom network communication software for each device type.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple vendors provide network services for devices, then device compatibility is achieved, but service quality and functionality remain severely lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The service provider implements a universal platform that supports multiple device types, communication protocols, and network configurations through a single integrated system. The system includes universal data translation capabilities that can handle various device-specific protocols and formats, providing consistent reliable service across all connected devices regardless of manufacturer or type.
4Adaptability or versatility
If devices are re-engineered with communications interfaces, then network connectivity is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts expensive network interface hardware and complex software development costs from individual device manufacturing and consolidates them into a centralized service provider infrastructure. Devices only need simple, inexpensive interfaces to communicate with the service provider, dramatically reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining full network connectivity functionality.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution simplifies the connection of devices to networks, reduces costs, and improves user experience by providing a unified internet-based service for managing various devices, enabling seamless monitoring and control while maintaining compatibility and security.
Implementation Method 1
the Imp having an optical sensor, coupled to the processor, to detect optical signals transmitted through a housing of the Imp
Data Source
AI summary
System and method of interfacing arbitrary non-network connected devices to wireless computer networks. The invention provides an optically configurable wireless communications module, in either fixed or removable formats, with wireless (e.g. WiFi) network connectivity. The module also has a programmable arbitrary device controller, associated software, and at least the combination of the arbitrary device and the module also provides a unique ID code. A software token assisted method may be used to associate the unique ID code with appropriate control software and this association stored in network server memory. The invention may also use an internet-based service and a local optical programmer to configure the module's wireless network configuration. Once connectivity is established, the module may upload its unique ID code to the server and receive appropriate arbitrary device control code from the server. Portable version modules may be swapped between arbitrary devices at will, and will automatically configure themselves.