Network Device Mapping Using UWB Positioning and Environment Models
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Solution Overview
Problem
Managing a large number of network devices in a physical environment is challenging due to difficulties in proper arrangement, identification, and control, leading to potential errors and confusion.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a location device to collect position and device information data, map network devices to a physical environment model, and provide a user-friendly interface for control, employing ultrawideband positioning technology and QR-code scanning for precise and efficient device management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If network devices are managed without a mapping system, then the system structure is simple, but it becomes difficult to identify and control devices in large networks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual model that copies the physical environment and maps network devices to corresponding locations in this model. This allows users to identify and control devices by their visual representation in the model rather than dealing with abstract device identifiers, thus improving ease of operation without requiring direct physical access to devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a model of the physical environment as an intermediary between the user and the actual network devices. This model serves as a mediator that simplifies device identification and control by providing a visual, location-based interface, while the server handles the complex mapping and device management operations in the background.
2Reliability
If manual device arrangement methods are used, then implementation is simple, but errors and confusion increase in large networks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual, error-prone mechanical processes of device arrangement and identification with an automated digital mapping system. The server automatically creates and maintains the mapping between physical device locations and their representations in the virtual model, eliminating human errors associated with manual tracking and management of large numbers of devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides visual feedback by displaying the model of the physical environment with network devices marked at their actual locations. This allows users to verify device positions and identify devices accurately, providing immediate visual confirmation that reduces errors in device management operations.
3Measurement precision
If detailed device information is collected and mapped, then device control precision is improved, but data processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential information needed for device identification and location (device identifiers, position coordinates, and basic properties) and stores this in the virtual model. Detailed device specifications and configuration data are maintained separately by the server, allowing the client interface to remain lightweight while still providing precise device location and control capabilities.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for managing network devices are provided. The method comprises collecting position data of at least one network device (5) with a location device for determining the position of the at least one network device (5) relative to at least one positioning base, collecting device information data from the at least one network device (5) with the location device, the device information data representing individual properties of the at least one network device (5), determining the position of the at least one network device (5) according to the position data, providing a model of the physical environment based on environment data, and mapping the at least one network device (5) to the model of the physical environment such that the device information data of the at least one network device (5) is assigned to at least one location in the model of the physical environment, according to the position of the at least one network device (5). Further, a location device and a system for managing network devices are provided.