Multifunction Scanner Device With Reprogrammable Microcontroller
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current IoT devices are often designed for single-specific uses and require extensive programming capabilities, limiting their versatility and ease of reprogramming.
Innovation Solution
A mobile, small form factor device equipped with a microcontroller, Wi-Fi access, GPS, and memory card, allowing for multipurpose functionality and easy reprogramming, with the ability to connect and interact with various communication protocols and third-party devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If IoT devices are designed for single-specific uses, then device functionality is specialized and reliable, but device versatility and adaptability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal IoT device platform that can perform multiple functions through reprogrammable microcontrollers and modular peripheral interfaces. The system allows a single device to be configured for different applications (tracking, scanning, hosting websites) by loading different software, thereby achieving versatility without requiring multiple specialized devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The device employs dynamic reconfiguration capabilities where the system functionality can be changed at runtime through software updates and peripheral reattachment. The microcontroller can be reprogrammed to alter device behavior, and peripherals can be dynamically connected or disconnected to modify system capabilities, enabling the device to adapt to different tasks as needed.
2Adaptability or versatility
If IoT devices require extensive programming capabilities, then device functionality can be customized, but ease of operation and user accessibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates self-service features including automatic software updates, over-the-air programming capabilities, and automated peripheral detection. The device can autonomously manage its own configuration and reprogramming tasks, reducing the need for users to perform complex manual programming operations while maintaining high adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary software layers and abstraction interfaces that simplify the programming process. These intermediaries provide user-friendly configurations and automated code generation, allowing users to reprogram device functionality without needing extensive programming knowledge, thus bridging the gap between customization capability and ease of use.
3Weight of moving object
If device form factor is made small and portable, then device portability and wearability are improved, but device functionality and component integration are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested modular architecture where small core components are integrated within a compact housing, and additional functional peripherals can be attached or nested within the device structure. This allows the base device to remain small and portable while functionality can be expanded by adding modular components that integrate seamlessly with the compact form factor.
Data Source
AI summary
A portable programmable computing device 1 containing a memory 14, GPS antenna 12, Wi-Fi component 21, microprocessor 11, and power source 15 housed in a mobile, compact, housing 41. Housing 41 can be a wearable garment, allowing computing device 1 to be hidden within the garment, thus enabling device 1 to communicate with outside devices surreptitiously. Microprocessor 11 can be easily programmed and reprogrammed by a user. Device 1 can connect to the Internet through various means, based on the components contained within or otherwise coupled to device 1, e.g., cellular component 23, Bluetooth component 24, and other wireless protocol (such as Wi-Fi 21) components, to execute various useful functions, including tracking, scanning, and hosting a personal Website. The scanner function is adapted to search for wireless networking access points, and can accommodate a plurality of protocols, including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.