Optical Sensor Network Address Assignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Configuring network devices in automated pharmacy machines is time-consuming and prone to errors due to the need for manual assignment of network addresses, which can lead to incorrect assignments and additional costs.
Innovation Solution
A method where optical sensors automatically generate and assign network addresses based on image information, such as barcodes, using a predetermined algorithm, eliminating the need for human intervention and reducing errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual configuration methods are used to assign network addresses, then human intervention can populate look-up tables, but errors and additional costs may occur due to incorrect address assignments
Solution Approach 1:
The network device automatically assigns its own network address by reading the barcode and processing the location information through an algorithm, eliminating the need for manual configuration and reducing errors associated with human intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical configuration methods (dipswitches, jumpers, manual look-up table population) with an automated optical scanning system that reads barcodes and programmatically assigns network addresses
2Productivity
If manual configuration methods are used to assign network addresses, then installers can physically configure devices, but time-consuming processes and potential for errors are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The device configures itself automatically upon power-up or initialization by scanning its own barcode and processing the location information, eliminating the time required for installer intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The barcode containing location information is pre-affixed to the device during manufacturing, so that when the device is installed and powered on, the network address can be automatically assigned without requiring subsequent manual configuration steps
3Extent of automation
If automated optical sensors are used to generate image data, then network addresses can be automatically assigned based on physical location, but additional hardware and processing requirements are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The optical sensor serves multiple functions: it can read barcodes for network address assignment, and it also functions as an operational scanner for reading prescription or package barcodes during normal automated pharmacy operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the network address assignment function with the existing prescription scanning function by using the same optical sensor and barcode reading capability for both purposes, thereby avoiding additional dedicated hardware
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
Automatically assigning network addresses to network devices based on physical location information reduces configuration time, minimizes errors, and eliminates the need for manual dipswitch configuration, enhancing reliability and efficiency in automated pharmacy systems.
Implementation Method 1
activating the optical sensor to generate data representing an image in view thereof
Data Source
AI summary
A method for configuring a network device includes activating a sensor of the network device to receive data. The data from the sensor is analyzed to determine physical location information indicated thereby. A network address is automatically assigned to the network device based on the physical location information indicated by the data from the sensor. Related methods, systems, and apparatus are also discussed.