Network-Based Mobile Device Imaging and Charging System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for updating software and settings on mobile devices require direct physical connection to a central machine, making it inefficient for simultaneous imaging and charging across diverse and remote locations, such as hospitals or schools.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a network-connected kit computer with USB signal conversion software and Power Over Ethernet (POE) to simulate a direct USB connection, allowing for remote data transfer and charging of multiple devices over a network, using a centralized server to manage and update client devices via IP addresses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If direct physical connection to central machine is used for updating software, then device imaging can be performed, but efficiency is reduced when multiple devices need simultaneous imaging and charging across remote locations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a network as an intermediary medium between the central machine and client devices. Instead of requiring direct USB physical connections, the system uses network communication (via IP addresses) to transmit imaging data and control signals. This allows multiple devices to be imaged simultaneously from remote locations without physical proximity to the central machine.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical USB connection system with an electronic network-based system. The physical USB cable connection is substituted by network protocols and software communication, allowing data transfer and device control over standard network infrastructure rather than requiring specialized physical interfaces.
2Productivity
If multiple devices are updated simultaneously over network, then efficiency improves, but system complexity increases with USB signal conversion and power management
Solution Approach 1:
The kit computer serves multiple functions: it acts as a network endpoint for receiving imaging data, runs USB signal conversion software to translate network data into device-specific protocols, and manages power delivery through the data transfer/charging switch software. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate systems into a single versatile platform.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically manages the complexity of signal conversion and power management through software agents running on the kit computer. The data transfer/charging switch software autonomously monitors device states and adjusts power delivery accordingly, without requiring manual intervention or complex hardware switches.
3Productivity
If USB connection is used for data transfer, then device imaging is achieved, but charging capability is limited due to USB power constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts power delivery based on device needs. The data transfer/charging switch software monitors whether a device is in data transfer mode or charging mode, and switches the power output accordingly. This allows the same physical connection to serve different functions with appropriate power levels for each mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines data transfer and charging functions into a single integrated system. Instead of requiring separate USB cables for data and power, or separate charging infrastructure, the system merges both capabilities through the network connection, with intelligent software managing the dual functionality of the same physical interface.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables simultaneous imaging and charging of multiple mobile devices across remote locations without the need for physical proximity, improving efficiency and flexibility in managing device profiles and settings.
Implementation Method 1
A software running on the central computer uses a USB signal conversion software, running on a kit computer and connected to the client device, to simulate the client device being directly connected to the server computer through the network for re-imaging of the client device. A data transfer/charging switch software on the kit computer switches the amperage of the kit computer appropriately to accommodate a data transfer and charging mode for the client device
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods of the present invention provide for one or more centralized server computers communicatively coupled to a network and configured to: receive a request to update an image on a client device connected via the network. A software running on the central computer uses a USB signal conversion software, running on a kit computer and connected to the client device, to simulate the client device being directly connected to the server computer through the network for re-imaging of the client device. A data transfer/charging switch software on the kit computer switches the amperage of the kit computer appropriately to accommodate a data transfer and charging mode for the client device.