Multiprotocol IoT Module for Building Equipment Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing building management systems face challenges in efficiently communicating and controlling various building subsystems due to compatibility issues between different printed circuit boards and microcontroller units, limiting the integration of multiple wireless protocols and data processing capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A compact IoT module with multiprotocol wireless communication capabilities, integrating a microcontroller and wireless circuit on a single circuit board, supporting protocols like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Zigbee, and enabling data processing and storage, with blockchain integration for secure data transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple wireless protocols are integrated into a single module, then communication versatility and compatibility are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple wireless communication protocols (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Zigbee) into a single integrated IoT module, merging previously separate communication functions into one unified device that can operate across different building management systems
Solution Approach 2:
The IoT module is designed with multi-functionality to support multiple wireless protocols simultaneously, allowing a single device to communicate with various building subsystems (HVAC, lighting, security) that use different communication standards, thereby eliminating the need for multiple separate communication devices
2Productivity
If data processing and storage are performed locally in the module, then communication efficiency and response time are improved, but device complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The module performs partial data processing locally rather than completely processing all data locally or sending all data to the cloud. It processes critical data immediately for time-sensitive operations while buffering and selectively transmitting other data, balancing processing efficiency with energy conservation
3Reliability
If blockchain technology is integrated for secure data transmission, then data security and reliability are improved, but device complexity and computational requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The IoT module acts as an intermediary that implements lightweight blockchain functionality for secure data transmission. It uses simplified consensus mechanisms and selective blockchain integration only for critical data transactions, rather than implementing full blockchain protocols, thereby achieving enhanced security without excessive complexity
Data Source
AI summary
At least one embodiment relates to a building device. The building device includes a circuit board, a wireless circuit, and a microcontroller (MCU) module configured for various tasks. The device can include a sensor. The wireless circuit is configured to operate according to multiple protocols and transmit and receive wireless data. The MCU is coupled to the wireless circuit and is configured to control building equipment using the wireless data and sensor data from the sensor. The sensor, the MCU, and the wireless circuit can be provided in a single module.