Networked Light Bulb Pre-authorization via RFID for Safe Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing home automation systems, such as X10, Insteon, and Echelon, face challenges in configuring networked light bulbs due to their hard-to-reach installation locations and the risk of physical harm when accessing powered bulbs, lacking a user-friendly mechanism for initialization and setup.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an electronically readable unique identifier, such as an RFID tag or optically readable symbol, that allows for pre-authorization of networked light bulbs into a home network without requiring power or network connectivity, enabling configuration through devices like smartphones or point-of-sale systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional configuration methods are used where users manually access and configure light bulbs during installation, then network setup can be completed, but users face safety risks from hot powered bulbs and difficulty reaching hard-to-access installation locations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the light bulb with a unique identifier and authorization token before installation. The bulb is pre-associated with a specific network ID during manufacturing or packaging, so that during installation, the user only needs to power the bulb and the configuration is automatically completed without manual intervention, eliminating the need to physically access hot or hard-to-reach bulbs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing a unique identifier (such as an RFID tag, barcode, or other machine-readable symbol) as a mediator between the light bulb and the network configuration system. This identifier allows automatic recognition and association of the bulb with its authorized network without requiring physical access to the bulb's configuration interfaces.
2Productivity
If light bulbs are installed in hard-to-reach locations to achieve proper lighting coverage, then lighting functionality is optimized, but configuration and maintenance become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the light bulb to automatically perform its own configuration and network association without requiring user intervention. The bulb uses its pre-configured unique identifier and authorization token to automatically join the designated network when powered on, eliminating the need for users to physically access the bulb for configuration purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical configuration approach (physically accessing switches, dials, or buttons on the bulb) with an automated electronic identification system. Machine-readable identifiers and automatic network protocols substitute for manual mechanical configuration, allowing bulbs in hard-to-reach locations to be configured remotely without physical access.
3Reliability
If network security mechanisms like WEP, WPA, or WPA2 are implemented to protect authorized device communication, then network security is improved, but configuration complexity increases as users must manually enter security keys into each device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the light bulb with authorization tokens and network security credentials during manufacturing or packaging. The unique identifier is pre-associated with the appropriate network security key, so that during installation, the bulb automatically uses the correct security credentials to join the network without requiring users to manually enter complex security keys.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses copying by distributing pre-configured authorization tokens and security credentials through the unique identifier system. Instead of requiring users to manually input security keys, the system copies the appropriate authorization information from the pre-configured data associated with the bulb's unique identifier, simplifying the configuration process while maintaining security.
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
Facilitates easy and safe inclusion of networked light bulbs into home networks, allowing for remote association and subsequent authorization, enhancing user convenience and safety during installation.
Implementation Method 1
Incorporating an electronically readable unique identifier, such as an RFID tag or optically readable symbol
Data Source
AI summary
A unique identifier may be stored in an RFID chip, a bar code, or other methods of passive storage associated with the networked light bulb. The unique identifier may be accessed while the light bulb is unpowered and before the light bulb is put into service. Information is stored in a database that identifies an association between the unique identifier and a particular network. If the light bulb is put into service, the light bulb may send the unique identifier over the network. A device may receive the unique identifier and query the database for information related to the unique identifier. If the unique identifier is associated with the particular network that the light bulb is connected to, the light bulb may be added as an authorized node on the particular network.