Symbolic Site Topography for Connected Object Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing home automation systems face challenges in efficiently controlling connected objects due to the complexity of representing geographical areas and the risk of interaction errors from incorrect object identification.
Innovation Solution
A method is proposed that uses a visual interface to display a symbolic representation of a geographical area as interactive buttons, allowing users to select sub-areas and control connected objects associated with those areas, while minimizing computer resource intensity and preventing malicious use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a detailed 2D or 3D plan representation of the building is used to show connected objects, then the user can identify object locations, but the computation and display costs become too high
Solution Approach 1:
The building is divided into multiple rooms, and each room is represented by a simple icon rather than a detailed 2D/3D plan. This segmentation allows the system to manage complexity by breaking down the large building into smaller, more manageable units that can be displayed efficiently.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of displaying the actual detailed architectural plans, the patent uses simplified icon representations that copy only the essential information (room existence and object locations) without the computational burden of full graphical representations.
2Ease of operation
If a simple list of connected objects is used, then the interface is easy to implement, but the user cannot easily identify the exact location of objects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a spatial dimension to the object list by organizing objects within the context of room icons. Instead of a flat one-dimensional list, the interface creates a two-dimensional structure where objects are nested within their corresponding room representations, providing both simplicity and spatial context.
3Measurement precision
If detailed room layouts and exact object positions are displayed, then object identification is precise, but the interface becomes complex and resource-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different levels of detail to different parts of the interface. Room icons provide a simplified overview, while object lists within each room provide detailed information. This local quality approach ensures that detailed information is available when needed without overwhelming the entire interface with complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for controlling a connected object deployed in a geographical area. A corresponding computer program, storage medium, and processing circuit. The method includes displaying, via a visual interface, a symbolic representation of the geographical area in the form of juxtaposed interactive buttons. Each interactive button is associated with a respective sub-area of the geographical area. The method includes obtaining a sub-area selection command generated by an interaction, via a user interface, with a displayed particular interactive button, selecting the sub-area associated with the particular interactive button, and, on the basis of feedback obtained via the user interface, issuing a control signal intended for the connected object.