Wireless Device Association Using RF Range Estimates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for associating wireless devices with point names in installation plans are labor-intensive and prone to human error, especially in HVAC control systems where devices require scaffolding and are unpowered during installation, making verification difficult.
Innovation Solution
An automated process using RF propagation patterns, an inferencing engine, and machine-readable installation plans to associate wireless devices with point names by measuring range and signal strength, allowing for incremental association and optimization of transmit power levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual techniques are used for mapping device IDs to point names, then the installation process can be completed, but the process is labor-intensive and subject to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical processes (physical labeling, handwritten mapping) with automated electronic systems. The installer uses a mobile device to scan QR codes on devices and automatically receives GPS-coordinated point names, eliminating manual data entry and reducing human error while improving installation speed
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service through automated GPS-based identification. The mobile device automatically determines the installer's location, identifies the corresponding point name from the installation plan, and provides it without requiring manual verification or cross-referencing, making the process both faster and more reliable
2Ease of manufacture
If scaffolding and ladders are used for physical access to installation locations, then devices can be installed at designated locations, but safety risks and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mobile device as an intermediary tool that eliminates the need for physical scaffolding and ladders. The system provides GPS-coordinated navigation to exact installation locations on the ground level, allowing installers to retrieve and install devices without climbing or using elevated equipment, thereby removing safety hazards while maintaining installation precision
3Productivity
If devices are installed while unpowered, then installation can proceed without electrical infrastructure, but verification of device functionality becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary verification by having the installer scan the QR code on the device before installation. The system validates the device ID against the installation plan and confirms the correct point name association in advance, ensuring device functionality and correct mapping are verified before the device is even installed, eliminating the need for post-installation testing
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
This method reduces human error and labor by automatically associating wireless devices with point names, ensuring accurate mapping and efficient installation even in complex environments, improving operational reliability and safety by eliminating the need for manual verification.
Implementation Method 1
utilizes automatic wireless device parameter control, installation plan information, and an inferencing engine to perform a process of identification, selection, mapping, and association of installed wireless devices with point names
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method automatically associate wireless devices to point names. An installation plan indicates that wireless devices are installed at designated locations. Each designated location in the installation plan includes an associated point name, each wireless device is configured to transmit a message indicating itself as the source of the message, and each wireless communication device is installed proximate to its designated location. Expected distances are determined between one or more pairs of designated locations on the installation plan. Range estimate data is gathered from the installed wireless devices for one or more pairs of the installed wireless devices. A unique identifier within a signal transmitted by one of the installed wireless devices is associated with a corresponding point name on the installation plan. The association is determined at least in part by the expected distances and the range estimate data.