Remote Computer Diagnostics via Cellular Link and Emulator Agent

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Solution Overview

Problem

Users face difficulties in diagnosing and repairing computer issues due to complexity, lack of technical knowledge, and high costs associated with accessing qualified technicians, especially when network connectivity is an issue.

Innovation Solution

A system and method utilizing cellular communication devices to facilitate remote computer diagnostics and repair by downloading diagnostic and repair applications, establishing a communications link, and using an emulator agent to control the computer's diagnostic and repair functions, with a network server brokering communications between peer technicians and users.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a user seeks help from a qualified technician for computer diagnostics and repair, then the problem can be accurately diagnosed and repaired, but the cost to the user becomes high and the response time becomes lengthy

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccuracy of diagnosis and repairVSAvoidresponse time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables users to perform self-diagnosis and self-repair of computer problems using automated diagnostic software and guided troubleshooting tools. Users can independently identify and resolve common computer issues without needing to contact external technicians, thereby eliminating waiting time while maintaining reliable problem-solving through structured diagnostic procedures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

An automated diagnostic system acts as an intermediary between the user and potential technician intervention. The system first attempts to diagnose and repair problems automatically, and only escalates to human technician involvement when necessary. This intermediary layer filters out many routine issues, reducing both cost and time for users while preserving accurate diagnosis capabilities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If a user seeks help from a qualified technician for computer diagnostics and repair, then the problem can be accurately diagnosed and repaired, but the cost to the user becomes high

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccuracy of diagnosis and repairVSAvoidcost of service

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The system provides users with automated diagnostic and repair tools that they can use independently to resolve computer problems. This self-service capability eliminates the need to pay for technician time on routine issues, significantly reducing service costs while maintaining reliable diagnosis and repair through proven diagnostic algorithms and guided procedures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses cost-effective automated software-based diagnostic tools rather than expensive human technician time for routine problems. The automated system can be deployed universally at low cost, providing reliable diagnostics without the high per-use cost associated with professional technician services.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Loss of time

If a technician attempts to diagnose and repair a computer remotely, then on-site travel is avoided, but the ability to accurately diagnose and repair the problem is hampered by interface difficulties

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetravel timeVSAvoidease of remote interface

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of timeVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system employs an automated diagnostic software agent as an intermediary that runs locally on the user's computer. This agent directly interfaces with system files, registers, and hardware components, eliminating the need for technicians to navigate complex interfaces or guide users through manual troubleshooting steps. The intermediary maintains full access to diagnostic data while removing interface complexity from the human user or remote technician.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Ease of manufacture

If a user without technical knowledge attempts to diagnose computer problems, then no technician cost is incurred, but the ability to accurately diagnose and repair the problem is severely limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecost of serviceVSAvoidaccuracy of diagnosis

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system provides automated self-service diagnostic capabilities that guide users through structured troubleshooting procedures. The software automatically interprets diagnostic data, identifies problem causes, and recommends or executes repair actions, enabling users without technical knowledge to achieve accurate diagnoses and effective repairs that would otherwise require expert technician intervention.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS8792879B2System and method of performing remote diagnostics on a computing device

Publication Date: 2014.07.29 FINBERG SCOTT A

AI summary

A user's cellular communication device communicates with a peer cellular communication device to perform diagnostic or repair functions on a computer connected to the user's device. The user's device is connected to the computer via a cable. The remote device commands the user's device to query the computer via the cable connection for information about the computer. Based on that information, the remote device generates commands to send to the user's device. Upon receipt, the user's device employs the commands to execute selected diagnostic and repair programs resident on the computer.