NB-IoT Connector for Remote Device Restart
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face difficulties in remotely and securely restarting technical devices due to complex software and limited accessibility, often relying on technicians or purchasing new devices, especially when local networks are unavailable or insecure.
Innovation Solution
A connector with a radio module using NB-IoT signals, integrated into technical devices, allows remote control via a user terminal, eliminating the need for local wireless networks and enhancing security through unique call numbers and PIN authentication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a connector is controlled via app or web portal using local WLAN, then the device can be restarted remotely, but the system becomes vulnerable to security attacks and hacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the vulnerable internet-based control mechanism (app/web portal via WLAN) with a telephone network-based control mechanism. The connector receives control commands via telephone calls or SMS messages, utilizing the established security and reliability of the telephone network instead of the exposed WLAN and internet infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the telephone network as an intermediary between the user and the connector. This intermediary layer provides enhanced security through call authentication and PIN codes, while also improving reliability by using the robust telephone network infrastructure that operates independently of local WLAN availability.
2Reliability
If a connector requires local WLAN for operation, then control commands can be transmitted, but the system becomes inaccessible when local network is unavailable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the connector accessible through multiple independent communication channels: local WLAN, mobile telephone network, and fixed telephone network. This multi-functionality ensures that the connector can be controlled regardless of which network is available, greatly improving both reliability and adaptability to different network conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a new dimension of control by introducing telephone network access as an alternative to WLAN-based control. This allows users to control the connector from any location with telephone service, even when local WLAN is unavailable, effectively adding a spatial and network-dimensional alternative.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If users call a unique call number to control the connector, then security is enhanced through authentication, but the operation becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary authentication actions (unique call number assignment and PIN code setup) during the initial configuration phase. Once configured, the operation simplifies to just calling the number and entering the PIN, which is much simpler than navigating through app interfaces or web portals while maintaining strong security.
Data Source
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AI summary
Techniques for restoring a functionality of a technical device operated with electricity, in particular the method is executable by means of an arrangement, comprising the following steps: Providing a connector, wherein the connector is provided on the powered technical device such as to enable or disable a power supply to the device; Sending a radio signal by means of a user terminal to the connector, in particular the radio signal is sent when a malfunction of the technical device has been detected; Execution of a control command caused by the radio signal to restore the functionality of the device, wherein the radio signal is transmitted from the user terminal to the connector by means of an NB-IoT radio signal and/or a mobile radio signal.