NFC-Powered Embedded Device Configuration via RF Signal
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Solution Overview
Problem
The initial configuration and setup of embedded devices, such as those in the Internet of Things, require significant user intervention and time, leading to poor user experience and increased labor costs due to the need for manual Wi-Fi network configuration and device registration.
Innovation Solution
The use of near field communication (NFC) protocols to facilitate the configuration of embedded devices by powering and configuring them without the need for manual intervention, allowing multiple devices to be configured simultaneously without removal from packaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual configuration methods are used for embedded devices, then configuration can be performed with basic equipment, but significant user intervention and time are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical configuration operations with automated optical scanning. The imaging device captures images of multiple devices simultaneously, and image processing automatically extracts configuration data, eliminating the need for manual intervention and significantly reducing setup time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-positioning multiple embedded devices in a group within packaging or on a surface before configuration. This allows simultaneous imaging and configuration of all devices in the group, rather than configuring them one by one during the setup process.
2Reliability
If individual device configuration is performed, then each device receives proper setup, but labor costs increase due to manual intervention requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple configuration operations into a single imaging and processing step. By capturing images of multiple devices simultaneously and processing them together, the system achieves both high reliability through automated extraction and high productivity through batch processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses optical copying through imaging to capture configuration data from multiple devices simultaneously. The imaging device creates visual copies of device labels or identifiers, which are then processed to extract configuration information, enabling rapid bulk configuration while maintaining accuracy.
3Ease of operation
If devices must be removed from packaging for configuration, then configuration can be performed individually, but the process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables self-service configuration where devices are configured automatically through imaging without requiring user removal from packaging. The system autonomously captures images, processes them, and applies configuration data, making the process as simple as placing devices in the imaging field of view.
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
This method significantly reduces the time and labor required for device setup, improving user experience and reducing costs by enabling efficient, automated configuration of embedded devices through NFC-powered configuration data transfer.
Implementation Method 1
In response to a request for information, the RF communicator transmits the requested information to a source of the request via an RF signal emitted by the NFC antenna
Implementation Method 2
The RF communicator receives a request for information from the computing device, retrieves the requested information from a memory, and transmits the requested information to a source of the request
Data Source
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Figure 2
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AI summary
Systems, methods, and apparatus to configure embedded devices are described. An example apparatus includes a network interface to communicatively couple the apparatus with a network, an antenna to receive a radio frequency signal including 1) configuration data and 2) power, a memory coupled to the antenna to receive the power and to store the configuration data, a network configurer to retrieve the configuration data from the memory and to configure the network interface based on the retrieved data, and a power source other than the antenna to provide power to the memory and the network configurer during operation of the network configurer.