Reconfigurable IoT Device for Multi-Protocol Scanning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current IoT devices are often designed for single-specific uses and require extensive programming capabilities, limiting their versatility and reprogrammability.
Innovation Solution
A portable, multifunctional computing device with a microcontroller, Wi-Fi access, GPS, and memory card, allowing for easy reprogramming and integration into various devices, including wearables and unmanned drones, with support for multiple communication protocols and peripheral additions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If IoT devices are designed for single-specific uses with fixed functionality, then device complexity is reduced and manufacturing is simplified, but adaptability and versatility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal IoT device platform with a reconfigurable radio frequency front end that can be programmed to support multiple communication protocols (WiFi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, LoRa, etc.) and perform various functions (scanning, tracking, hosting websites) through software configuration rather than hardware changes, allowing one device to replace multiple specialized devices
Solution Approach 2:
The device employs dynamic reconfigurability where the radio frequency front end can be programmatically adjusted to change its operational characteristics, supported by a rechargeable battery enabling dynamic power management and operational flexibility, allowing the device to adapt its functionality based on real-time requirements
2Adaptability or versatility
If IoT devices require extensive programming capabilities to modify intended use, then functionality can be customized, but ease of operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary configuration interface and pre-programmed functionality templates that mediate between the user and the complex reconfigurable hardware, allowing users to modify device behavior through simplified configuration parameters or selected function templates rather than direct programming of the radio frequency front end or microcontroller
Solution Approach 2:
The device includes pre-configured functionality templates and default operation modes that are prepared in advance, allowing users to quickly deploy common functions (scanning, tracking, website hosting) without extensive programming, while still retaining the capability for custom configuration when needed
3Weight of moving object
If a device is designed to be small and portable, then ease of carrying is improved, but functionality and power capacity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple previously separate functions (radio frequency communication, GPS tracking, web hosting, data storage) into a single integrated device with a microcontroller, reconfigurable RF front end, and memory card, achieving multipurpose functionality in a compact form factor that can be worn or carried
4Adaptability or versatility
If communication protocols are expanded to include multiple protocols, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal communication platform with a reconfigurable radio frequency front end that can be programmed to support multiple communication protocols (WiFi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, LoRa, etc.) through software configuration rather than requiring separate hardware for each protocol, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining broad protocol support
Data Source
AI summary
A portable programmable computing device 1 containing a memory 14, GPS antenna 12, Wi-Fi component 21, microprocessor 11, and power source 15 housed in a mobile, compact, housing 41. Housing 41 can be a wearable garment, allowing computing device 1 to be hidden within the garment, thus enabling device 1 to communicate with outside devices surreptitiously. Microprocessor 11 can be easily programmed and reprogrammed by a user. Device 1 can connect to the Internet through various means, based on the components contained within or otherwise coupled to device 1, e.g., cellular component 23, Bluetooth component 24, and other wireless protocol (such as Wi-Fi 21) components, to execute various useful functions, including tracking, scanning, and hosting a personal Website. The scanner function is adapted to search for wireless networking access points, and can accommodate a plurality of protocols, including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.