NFC Tag Action Assignment for Home Network Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Home networks with diverse devices require efficient methods for interconnection and control, but existing solutions lack simplicity and cost-effectiveness in assigning actions to network devices, especially in scenarios where devices need to communicate and perform specific tasks without direct programming.
Innovation Solution
A method using a passive NFC or RFID tag within a publish/subscribe network, where a control device reads the tag's unique ID and URL, connects to a management server, and selects an action from a list to assign to the network device, allowing the management server to store and trigger the action, leveraging publish/subscribe messaging and DDS for real-time communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If direct programming and configuration methods are used for network devices, then device control precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a tag as an intermediary object that stores identification information and action identifiers. Instead of directly programming devices, the tag mediates between the user and the network device, containing the necessary configuration data that enables automated device identification and action assignment without complex direct configuration procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent pre-programs the tag with identification information and action identifiers during manufacturing. This preliminary action eliminates the need for complex configuration at deployment time, as the tag already contains the necessary data structures and identifiers that enable automated device control when read by the control device
2Adaptability or versatility
If customizable tags are used for specific user needs, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the tag into two functional parts: a read-only identification section that is factory-programmed for mass production efficiency, and a read/write action identifier section that can be dynamically assigned. This segmentation allows standardized manufacturing of the base tag while enabling flexible customization of actions through software configuration rather than hardware reprogramming
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a standardized tag design that can be mass-produced with identical identification structures. Customization is achieved by copying and assigning different action identifiers from a predefined set rather than creating entirely custom tags for each user scenario, maintaining manufacturing efficiency while providing adaptability
3Adaptability or versatility
If active programmable tags are used, then functionality is improved, but cost and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the tag to be passive and read-only for its primary function of storing identification information. The tag does not require external power sources or active processing, instead relying on the control device to read and interpret the tag data. This self-service approach eliminates power consumption requirements while maintaining essential functionality through clever data structure design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs inexpensive passive tags that can be manufactured at low cost without power sources or programmable memory. These simple tags are replaced or reconfigured as needed, accepting limited lifespan and functionality in exchange for dramatically reduced cost and zero power consumption, suitable for applications where tags are attached to devices or objects
4Measurement precision
If multiple devices are managed individually, then device control precision is improved, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal tag format and control device interface that can manage multiple different network devices through a common mechanism. The tag stores device identification and action identifiers that work across various device types, allowing users to manage multiple devices using the same standardized approach rather than device-specific configuration procedures
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 easy setup and control of network devices with a wide range of applications, allowing users to manage multiple devices by reading tags, without the need for customization or direct device connections, while maintaining low costs due to the use of read-only tags.
Implementation Method 1
Near field communication (NFC) is a set of well-established standards for smartphones and similar mobile devices to establish radio communication with each other by bringing them into contact proximity. NFC in particular allows communication between an NFC device and an unpowered NFC chip, known for example as a 'tag' or an 'NFC tag'.
Implementation Method 2
Radio-frequency identification (RFID) is a wireless non-contact use of radio-frequency electromagnetic fields to transfer data, for example for the purpose of automatically identifying and tracking a tag attached to an object.
Data Source
AI summary
The method for assigning a tag (T) with an action for a network device (N) within a network comprising a management server (M), a control device (S) and the network device reads the tag with the control device; the tag transmitting a unique tag ID and a URL to the control device. The control device (S) reads the URL and connects with the management server (M), in case the tag has no action assigned, an action to be performed by the network device (N) is selected for the tag from a list on the control device, the management server is informed about the selected action. The management server stores the selected action in a memory of the management server, and the control device communicates with the network device (N) to inform the network device (N) to perform the action.