Sensor Context Adaptation via Dual-Interface Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
General sensor devices face inefficiencies in power consumption and cost due to out-of-context configurations that do not adapt to varying contexts, leading to unnecessary data reporting and battery drainage, as well as high operating costs for data transmission.
Innovation Solution
A general sensor equipped with both short-range and long-range communication interfaces, allowing for context-specific configuration and operation by detecting access points for receiving instructions and reporting data, thereby optimizing power usage and reducing costs for the provider.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a general sensor is configured to report data continuously regardless of context, then the sensor can provide comprehensive monitoring, but power consumption increases and unnecessary data transmission occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system dynamically adjusts its operation mode based on detected context. The controller switches between continuous monitoring, periodic sampling, and standby modes depending on whether the sensor is in a controlled environment (like a warehouse) or uncontrolled environment (like during transportation), optimizing power consumption while maintaining necessary monitoring coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters (sampling rate, reporting frequency, activation state) based on contextual conditions. When in a controlled environment, the sensor reduces sampling frequency and reporting intervals, effectively changing the operational parameters to reduce power consumption while maintaining adequate monitoring
2Loss of information
If a general sensor reports data frequently to ensure data availability, then data freshness is improved, but transmission costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The reporting frequency parameter is dynamically adjusted based on context. In controlled environments where data is less critical, the reporting interval is extended. In uncontrolled environments where monitoring is crucial, the reporting frequency increases, optimizing the balance between data freshness and transmission costs
3Adaptability or versatility
If a general sensor is pre-configured for multiple contexts, then the device can handle various scenarios, but the configuration becomes complex and difficult to manage
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system performs self-configuration by automatically detecting its operational context and adjusting its parameters without requiring manual reconfiguration. The controller autonomously determines whether the sensor is in a controlled or uncontrolled environment and configures appropriate sampling and reporting rates, eliminating the need for complex pre-configuration for multiple contexts
Data Source
AI summary
A User Equipment having at least one sensor, a short range communications interface, a long range communications interface and a controller, wherein the controller is configured for: establishing a connection with a first access point through the short range communications interface; receiving operating instructions for the at least one sensor from the first access point; causing the at least one sensor to operate according to the operating instructions; receiving sensor data from the at least one sensor; and for reporting the sensor data through the long range communications interface.