Unified Interface for Machine-to-Machine Telemetry Connectivity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current telemetry systems face challenges in connecting diverse devices with different communication protocols and networks, requiring custom interfaces and drivers, which is time-consuming and inefficient, and existing solutions like OPC have limitations in security, scalability, and configuration.
Innovation Solution
An inventory management system with a configurable device translation server and complex message constructor that authenticates commands, manages messages, and provides a common interface for machine-to-machine communication across various devices and networks, using protocols like XML, SOAP, and CDMA, to facilitate seamless communication and data exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If custom device drivers and interfaces are developed for each device with different communication protocols, then device compatibility and communication capability are improved, but development time and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary component (message constructor, translation server, or adapter layer) that sits between the diverse devices and the control system. This intermediary handles protocol translation, message formatting, and command authentication, allowing devices with different communication protocols to interact through a unified interface without requiring custom drivers for each device type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal message constructor and translation server that can handle multiple communication protocols (XML, SOAP, CDMA, etc.) and device types through a single multi-functional component. This universal interface performs authentication, message construction, and protocol translation for various devices including HVAC systems, medical devices, and industrial machinery, eliminating the need for device-specific custom interfaces.
2Ease of operation
If custom device drivers are written for controlling device operation, then device control capability is improved, but development time and resource requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables devices to self-configure and self-describe through standardized message formats and protocols. The message constructor automatically generates appropriate communication messages based on device capabilities and requirements, eliminating the need for manual custom driver development. The system performs self-service through automated message construction, protocol selection, and command authentication.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses parameter-based configuration where devices and control systems exchange capability parameters, communication protocol preferences, and operational parameters through standardized messages. By changing from fixed custom drivers to flexible parameter-based communication, the system can adapt to different devices by adjusting message parameters rather than rewriting drivers, significantly reducing development time.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing solutions like OPC are used for device communication, then interoperability is improved, but security, scalability, and configuration flexibility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic message construction and adaptive protocol selection that can respond to changing security requirements, device capabilities, and network conditions. Unlike static OPC solutions, the system can dynamically adjust authentication methods, message formats, and communication protocols based on device type, security level, and operational context, providing both interoperability and enhanced security.
4Productivity
If a unified interface for machine-to-machine communication is implemented across various devices and networks, then communication efficiency and scalability are improved, but implementation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication system into distinct functional modules: message constructor, translation server, authentication layer, and device interface layer. Each module handles specific tasks independently, making the overall system more manageable despite its comprehensive functionality. The segmentation allows parallel development and deployment of different components without affecting the entire system.
Data Source
AI summary
Various aspects of the present invention relate generally to telemetry methods and systems and more particularly, to telemetry network connectivity systems, devices and methods. In some embodiments, an inventory management system may be configured to provide machine-to-machine network connectivity. The inventory management system may be used in conjunction with a location device configured to transmit a vehicle identification number (VIN) and a device identifier of the location device. In some embodiments, the inventory management system may be configured to: (1) track whether the location device is located within a predetermined perimeter; (2) provide current inventory and ownership status associated the location device; and/or (3) place the location device in a sleep and/or passive state with periodic check-ins.