Visual Device Pairing via Image Recognition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Interfacing with wireless devices is complex and difficult due to the lack of intuitive interfaces and confusing device names, especially as the number of devices increases, making it hard for users to pair and interact with them effectively.
Innovation Solution
A master device images and identifies an object device using its image, allowing automatic pairing and providing an interface to control or pass data to the object device, even for devices with limited or no interfaces, by displaying relevant information overlaid on the image and using broadcast data to filter and select the correct device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional pairing protocols are used, then device connectivity is established, but the pairing process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by capturing an image of the object device and extracting identifying features before the actual pairing process. The master device pre-processes visual information to generate device identifiers, so when pairing is initiated, the identification phase is already complete or near-complete, significantly reducing the time required for the overall pairing operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical/manual pairing operations (manual protocol activation, manual device name matching) with an optical/image-based identification system. The master device uses image processing to automatically identify and retrieve object device identifiers, substituting the manual mechanical process of comparing device names with an automated visual recognition system that is both faster and more intuitive.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If device names are used for identification, then devices can be identified, but the names are indistinct and confusing to users
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of relying on abstract text-based device names that may not reflect the actual device, the system creates a visual copy (image) of the object device and extracts identifying features from that visual representation. This visual copy serves as a more intuitive and accurate identifier that directly represents the physical device being identified, making it easier for users to recognize and distinguish between devices.
3Adaptability or versatility
If interfaces are added to every wireless device, then interaction capability improves, but device size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The master device serves as an intermediary that provides the rich interface and image processing capabilities needed for device identification and interaction. Rather than requiring every object device to have its own complex interface, the master device acts as a mediator that captures images, processes visual information, and manages the pairing process, allowing simple object devices to gain enhanced interaction capabilities through the master device's interface.
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 2
Figure 4A~5B
AI summary
A master device images an object device and uses the image to identify the object device. The master device then automatically interfaces with the identified object device, for example, by pairing with the object device. The master device may receive broadcast data from the object device including information about the visual appearance of the object device and use the broadcast data in the identification of the object device. The master device may retrieve data related to the object device and display the related data, which may be display the data over the displayed image of the object device. The master device may provide an interface to control the object device or be used to pass data to the object device.