Smart Connector for Internet Hub Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems fail to provide robust and uninterrupted Internet and power connections, particularly during outages caused by Internet Service Provider issues, modem or router failures, and power outages, leading to frequent disruptions in computer systems.
Innovation Solution
A smart connector system that monitors Internet and power connections, reboots affected devices, and reroutes connectivity through cellular networks if necessary, while maintaining power using an integrated UPS and alerting users via instant messaging, and includes self-testing and maintenance for UPS battery health.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the smart connector continuously monitors and automatically reboots devices, then Internet connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The smart connector performs self-testing and self-diagnosis of Internet connections, automatically detecting problems and rebooting affected devices without requiring external intervention. The system monitors its own operational status and takes corrective actions autonomously, embodying the self-service principle to maintain reliability while managing complexity through automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors Internet connection status and provides feedback loops that trigger automatic reboots when problems are detected. The connector tests connections, detects failures, executes reboot sequences, and verifies restoration, creating a closed-loop feedback mechanism that improves reliability through automated response to connection issues.
2Productivity
If the smart connector implements comprehensive monitoring and automatic reboot functions, then productivity is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The smart connector handles all troubleshooting and recovery operations autonomously without requiring user intervention. The system independently monitors connections, diagnoses problems, executes reboots, and verifies restoration, completely eliminating user burden in troubleshooting while maintaining high productivity through continuous availability.
Solution Approach 2:
The smart connector acts as an intermediary between the user and the Internet connection infrastructure. It absorbs all technical complexity and operational burden, providing a simplified interface where users simply benefit from continuous connectivity without needing to understand or manage the underlying monitoring and reboot mechanisms.
3Reliability
If the smart connector uses AC plugs under program control to reset devices, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical plug insertion/removal operations with programmable electronic control of AC plugs. The system uses electronic switching mechanisms controlled by a microprocessor to automatically connect and disconnect power to Internet hub devices, substituting mechanical user actions with automated electronic control to improve reliability while managing complexity through integration.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for protecting a computer system is performed by a smart connector is described. The smart connector tests an Internet connection provided by an Internet hub. The connector reboots the Internet hub if the testing detects a problem in the Internet connection. Then, the connector tests the Internet connection after rebooting the Internet hub. If the problem persists after rebooting the Internet hub, the connector sends a hub problem notification. The components of the smart connector are also described.