Modular Wireless Interface for Networked Device Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for connecting devices to computer networks are cumbersome and costly, requiring significant re-engineering, additional hardware, and software development, leading to complex and often buggy implementations that burden device vendors and result in poor user experiences due to incomplete or incompatible control and monitoring services.
Innovation Solution
A standardized modular wireless communications interface that integrates a programmable controller, allowing devices to be easily connected to networks through a small, removable module like an SD card, which configures itself and maintains persistent internet connections, reducing the need for extensive software development and hardware modifications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional methods are used to add network connectivity to devices, then devices can be connected to networks, but significant re-engineering, additional hardware, and software development are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides network connectivity functionality into a separate, standalone module that can be independently added to devices without modifying the core device architecture. This module handles all network-related functions (WiFi, Ethernet, Bluetooth) and communication protocols, allowing the main device to remain simple while gaining network capabilities through a plug-and-play addition.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a gateway device or bridge that acts as an intermediary between non-networked devices and the network. This intermediary handles the complexity of network protocols, IP addressing, and communication routing, allowing simple devices to access networks without direct network interface integration. The gateway absorbs the complexity of network operations while presenting a simplified interface to the host device.
2Ease of operation
If communications interfaces and processing capabilities are added to devices, then network control is enabled, but vendor expertise and development resources are consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal network control module that can be applied across multiple device types and industries. This single module provides all necessary network control functions (WiFi, Ethernet, Bluetooth, protocol handling, security) that work with various host devices without requiring device-specific customization. The module's universal design eliminates the need for vendors to develop network control capabilities from scratch for each product line.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service mechanisms where the network control module automatically configures itself upon insertion, including automatic network discovery, IP address assignment, and connection establishment. The module monitors its own status, manages its own communication protocols, and provides self-diagnostic capabilities, freeing vendors from the burden of manual configuration and support for network operations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If network interfaces and processing capabilities are integrated into devices, then devices can communicate with networks, but production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple network interface types (WiFi, Ethernet, Bluetooth) and their associated processing capabilities into a single integrated module. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate hardware components for each network protocol, reducing bill of materials costs and assembly complexity. The merged module shares common resources such as antennas, processors, and memory across all network functions, achieving economies of scale that lower per-unit production costs.
Data Source
AI summary
This invention provides a standard method of interfacing an arbitrary non-network connected device to computer networks such as the Internet. The invention modularizes the communications interface by providing a plug-in communications module, which may be compatible with a standard solid-state memory card interface and form factor, thus removing the burden of wireless approvals testing (the module is tested vs. the whole product). The invention also integrates a programmable arbitrary device controller and associated software into this same communications module, thus removing the burden of the majority of the software development for most arbitrary non-network connected devices. The invention further provides a unified internet-based service that can help configure the module's network configuration, and download appropriate control code for whatever arbitrary device the module is currently connected to.