Window Operator Wireless Switching for Connectivity Loss

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current window operating systems lack integration with smart home technology, failing to provide secure and efficient control mechanisms, particularly in scenarios where internet connectivity is lost, and there is a need for improved control and security features.

Innovation Solution

A window operator assembly equipped with a motor, communication circuitry, and processor circuitry that switches between different wireless communication systems, such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, to maintain operation and security, including automatic window closure, locking, and sensor-driven actions, with features like encryption, pressure, liquid, and motion sensing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the window operator assembly uses a single primary wireless communication system (Wi-Fi), then the communication range is extended, but the system loses functionality when internet connectivity is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem functionalityVSAvoidcommunication system
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple wireless communication systems (Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Low Energy) into a single window operator assembly. The communication circuitry includes both Wi-Fi module and BLE module, allowing the system to utilize both communication protocols simultaneously or alternatively to maintain functionality under different connectivity conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically switches between different communication modes based on connectivity status. The processor circuitry monitors internet connectivity and automatically transitions from Wi-Fi-only mode to dual-mode operation when connectivity is lost, and vice versa when connectivity is restored. This dynamic adaptation ensures continuous functionality without user intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If the window operator assembly implements automated security actions (closing and locking windows), then security is enhanced, but user control flexibility is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoiduser control
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system provides feedback to users about automated security actions through notifications and status updates. When the processor circuitry automatically closes or locks windows in response to connectivity loss, users receive alerts explaining the action taken and the conditions that triggered it, maintaining transparency and user awareness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The window operator assembly performs security functions autonomously without requiring direct user intervention. The processor circuitry automatically monitors connectivity status, determines when security actions are needed, and executes window closing and locking operations independently, freeing users from constant manual control while maintaining security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If the window operator assembly uses encrypted wireless communications, then security is improved, but processing time and energy consumption increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The encryption implementation applies different security measures to different communication channels based on their security requirements. Wi-Fi communications, which may carry more sensitive data, use robust encryption protocols, while BLE communications use appropriate encryption for their specific use case. This localized approach to encryption optimizes security while minimizing unnecessary energy consumption on less critical channels.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS20230287727A1Window operator assemblies and devices for controlling the same
Publication Date: 2023.09.14 QUB LLC
  • US20230287727A1 patent drawing
  • US20230287727A1 patent drawing
  • US20230287727A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An example window operator assembly comprises a motor, communication circuitry, and processor circuitry. The communication circuitry being configured to provide a first type of wireless communications and a second type of wireless communication with a first wireless communication system and a second wireless communication system. And, the processor circuitry being configured to identify connection loss between the communication circuitry and the first wireless communication system, and in response, cause the communication circuitry to switch to the second wireless communication system and cause the window operator assembly to perform an action.