Network Device Detection via Identification Code Matching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing network technologies lack an efficient method for automatically detecting slave devices in custom networks, such as automated outdoor home lighting systems, where traditional setup methods are non-existent, making it difficult for central control devices to identify and communicate with slave devices.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus for detecting remote network devices involve transmitting a message with a first network identification code and determining if a response is received from devices matching a stored second network identification code, with the apparatus including a processor, transmitter, and receiver to store identification information and repeat the process until no further responses are received.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional router setup methods are used, then network devices can be connected manually, but the process is complex and requires user knowledge of network configuration

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of device connectionVSAvoidcomplexity of network setup
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The slave device automatically performs network registration by transmitting its identification information to the central control device without requiring manual user configuration. The system uses automatic message transmission and response mechanisms where the slave device initiates contact with the central control device, and the central control device automatically stores the slave device's information in a database, eliminating the need for users to manually configure network parameters.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Extent of automation

If automatic detection methods are implemented, then network setup is simplified, but the system requires additional communication protocols and identification mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomation of device detectionVSAvoidcomplexity of detection system
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The central control device is pre-programmed with a database structure and communication protocol that enables automatic slave device detection. The system includes pre-defined message formats for identification requests and responses, allowing the central control device to automatically transmit messages, receive slave device identification information, and store it in the database without requiring complex real-time processing or additional hardware.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Measurement precision

If network identification codes are used for device detection, then device recognition accuracy is improved, but the system requires precise code matching and validation mechanisms

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of device identificationVSAvoidcomplexity of identification system
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses unique identification information (such as serial numbers or MAC addresses) that are copied and stored in the central control device's database. When a slave device transmits its identification information, the central control device compares it against stored codes and creates a match record. This copying approach ensures accurate device recognition while maintaining simplicity, as the identification process relies on straightforward string comparison rather than complex validation algorithms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentUS11894943B2Method and apparatus for network device detection
Publication Date: 2024.02.06 UNIVERSAL ELECTRONICS INC
  • US11894943B2 patent drawing
  • US11894943B2 patent drawing
  • US11894943B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method and apparatus for detecting remote network devices. In one embodiment, the method comprises detecting an event and a) transmitting a message requesting a response from one or more remote network devices, the message comprising a first network identification code, and b) determining whether a response to the message has been received, the response transmitted by a remote network device after receiving the message and determining that the first network identification code matches a second network identification code stored within the remote network device, the response comprising identification information of the remote network device. If c) a response has not been received, terminating the method for detecting remote network devices if a pre-determined time period has elapsed since transmitting the message. If d) a response has been received, storing identification information associated with the responding remote network device and repeating steps a-d until no further responses are received.