Topology Key Automates Network Device Location Entry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional device monitoring systems require tedious and time-consuming manual entry of topological location information for networked devices, which can be laborious and inefficient, especially when the user interface is not located near the devices.
Innovation Solution
A device topology definition system utilizing a location indicia device, such as a key or mobile device, that detects and communicates location information via Bar Codes, QR Codes, or RFID tags, allowing the device monitoring application to automatically update topology information without manual entry at the user interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual entry of topological location information is used, then data accuracy can be ensured, but time consumption and labor intensity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical data entry with automated optical scanning and RFID detection systems. Barcode scanners, QR code readers, and RFID sensors automatically capture topological location information from labels attached to network devices, eliminating the need for manual typing while maintaining data accuracy through machine-readable precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses copies of location information stored in digital databases that correspond to physical labels on devices. When a barcode or RFID tag is scanned, the system retrieves pre-stored topological location data from a database, ensuring accuracy while dramatically reducing the time required compared to manual entry.
2Ease of operation
If the user interface is located away from the devices, then centralized monitoring is achieved, but data collection becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces portable data collection devices (mobile scanners, tablets with RFID readers) as intermediaries between the centralized monitoring system and distributed network devices. These intermediaries capture location data at device sites and automatically transmit it to the central interface, maintaining centralized control while simplifying data collection through automated mobile tools.
3Productivity
If automated location detection is implemented, then data entry speed increases, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs universal scanning and detection tools that can read multiple types of identifiers (barcodes, QR codes, RFID tags) and work with various network devices through standard interfaces. This multi-functionality enables automated data collection across diverse devices without requiring separate specialized systems for each device type, thus increasing speed while controlling complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables quick and efficient setting of topological or location information for networked devices, reducing the need for manual data entry and improving the accuracy and speed of device monitoring by automating the collection of location data.
Implementation Method 1
A device topology definition system utilizing a location indicia device, such as a key or mobile device, that detects and communicates location information via Bar Codes, QR Codes, or RFID tags
Data Source
AI summary
A device topology definition system works in conjunction with a location indicia detector, such as a topology key or detector, to simplify entry of device location information in a device monitoring system. To mitigate the tedium of entering location information for each device being monitored, the topology key or detector can be inserted into a data port or aperture of a device, or otherwise detect location indicia located on or proximate to a device, and a topology definition system of the device monitoring application will read topology information from the key or detector and logically associate the topology information with the device's identifier. This association is recorded as part of a global topology data set for the monitored devices maintained by the device monitoring application. In the case of a topology key, the topology information stored on the key can be modified prior to inserting the key into another device, allowing device location information to be quickly entered into the device monitoring application without requiring a user to enter the location information manually at the monitoring application's user interface.