Home network of connected consumer devices.
Abstract
A method to generate a representation of a structure; the method includes providing an ad-hoc mesh network having at least two nodes associated with the structure, obtaining time of flight data for each node of the network, and using the flight time data to generate the representation of the structure. A method to generate a three-dimensional representation of a structure; the method includes providing an ad-hoc mesh network having at least three nodes associated with the structure, wherein at least one node is a mobile node moving around the structure, obtaining time-of-flight data for each pair of nodes in the network, and use the flight time data to generate a three-dimensional representation of the structure.

Term
6.8 yearsleft in the term
Expires 17 July 2033.
- Priority
- Filed
- Granted
- Today
- Expires
16 claims: 2 independent, 14 dependent
- 1REIVINDICACIONES 5 1. Un método para generar una representación de una estructura; el método está caracterizado porque comprende:proporcionar una red ad hoc en malla que tiene al menos dos nodos asociados con la estructura, proveer al menos un producto de consumo dentro de la 10 estructura, el producto de consumo estando asociado con al menos uno de los nodos, obtener datos del tiempo de vuelo para cada nodo de la red;y usar los datos de tiempo de vuelo para generar la representación de la estructura;en donde los al menos dos nodos incluyen al menos un nodo móvil 15 y los datos de tiempo de vuelo se obtienen mientras el nodo móvil se mueve.
- 2El método de la reivindicación 1, caracterizado además porque la representación es una representación tridimensional y la red tiene al menos tres nodos.
- 3El método de la reivindicación 2, caracterizado además 20 porque el nodo móvil contiene un sensor.
- 4El método de la reivindicación 1, caracterizado además porque los nodos tienen al menos dos modos de comunicación diferentes. IMPIOS INSTITUTO MtXICAN ' DE LA ΜΟΡΙΕΓΑΙ» INDUSTRIAL
- 5El método de la reivindicación 1, caracterizado además porque obtener los datos de tiempo de vuelo comprende obtener datos del tiempo de vuelo solamente para una línea de modo de comunicación de señales seleccionada de:un módulo de comunicaciones transparente para la habitación o línea de datos de señal.
- 6El método de la reivindicación 1, caracterizado además porque obtener el tiempo de datos de vuelo comprende obtener el tiempo de datos de vuelo para los al menos dos nodos de comunicaciones diferentes.
- 7El método de la reivindicación 1, caracterizado además porque la red ad hoc en malla comprende al menos cuatro nodos.
- 8El método de la reivindicación 7, caracterizado además porque usar los datos de tiempo de vuelo comprende usar los datos de tiempo de vuelo para el cuarto nodo para fijar la posición del tercer nodo en un punto.
- 9El método de la reivindicación 3, caracterizado además porque el nodo móvil está asociado a un producto de consumo conocido que se usa solamente en regiones particulares de la estructura.
- 10El método de la reivindicación 9, caracterizado además porque el nodo móvil está asociado a una barredora usada solamente en pisos no alfombrados.
- 11El método de la reivindicación 3, caracterizado además porque el nodo móvil está asociado a un limpiador robótico que esquiva los muebles y las paredes.
- 12IMPI^ INST1TUTO El método de la reivindicación 3, cara ^éñZádo''~acfemas porque el nodo móvil está asociado a un nodo adher+dt) a uiid Iridicula.
- 13El método de la reivindicación 3, caracterizado además porque el nodo móvil está asociado a un dispositivo arreglado para que sea llevado por un usuario para proporcionar datos con respecto a la estructura.
- 14El método de la reivindicación 1, caracterizado además porque comprende usar datos disponibles de tiempo de vuelo con respecto a la ubicación de nodos en las habitaciones.
- 15El método de la reivindicación 14, caracterizado porque comprende, además, usar datos disponibles con respecto a los propósitos de las habitaciones.
- 16Un método para generar una representación tridimensional de una estructura; el método está caracterizado porque comprende:proporcionar una red ad hoc en malla que tiene al menos tres nodos asociados con la estructura, caracterizado porque al menos un nodo es un nodo móvil que se mueve alrededor de la estructura;proveer al menos un producto de consumo dentro de la estructura, el producto de consumo estando asociado con al menos uno de los nodos, obtener datos de tiempo de vuelo para cada par de nodos en la red;y IMPI INSTITUTO usar los datos de tiempo de vuelo para cfSti$t#r'i^re£b^ tridimensional de la estructura;en donde los al manos h™ nndns incluyan al menos un nodo móvil y los datos de tiempo de vuelo se obtienen mientras el nodo móvil se mueve.
Independent claims16
138 paragraphs in 11 sections, as filed
(54) Title: HOME NETWORK OF CONNECTED CONSUMER DEVICES.
(54) Title: HOME NETWORK OF CONNECTED CONSUMER DEVICES.
(57) Summary
A method of generating a representation of a structure; The method includes providing an ad hoc mesh network that has at least two nodes associated with the structure, obtaining time-of-flight data for each node in the network, and using the time-of-flight data to generate the representation of the structure. A method of generating a three-dimensional representation of a structure; The method includes providing an ad hoc mesh network that has at least three nodes associated with the structure, where at least one node is a mobile node moving around the structure, obtaining time-of-flight data for each pair of nodes in the network, and use the time-of-flight data to generate a three-dimensional representation of the structure.
(57) Abstract
A method of generating a representation of a structure includes providing an ad hoc mesh network having at least two nodes associated with the structure, obtaining time of flight data for each node in the network, and using the time of flight data to generate the representation of the structure. A method of generating a three-dimensional representation of a structure includes providing an ad hoc mesh network having at least three nodes associated with the structure, wherein at least one node is a mobile node that moves around the structure, obtaining time of flight data for each pair of nodes in the network, and using the time of flight data to generate the three-dimensional representation of the structure.
PATENT TITLE No. 349290
Owner (s): THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY
Address: One Procter & Gamble Plaza, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45202, USA
Name: HOME NETWORK OF CONNECTED CONSUMER DEVICES.
Classification: OIR: G01S1 / 68; G07F11 / 0O; H04B10 / 114; H04B11 / 00; H04L12 / 28; H04W4 / 04;
H05B41 / 00
CPC: G01S1 / 70: G01S1 / 74; G01S1 / 76: G01S5 / 16: G01S5 / 18: H04B10 / 116:
H04B10 / 1149; H04B11 / 00; * *
Inventor (s): RAJ B. ΑΡΤΕ; CHRISTOPHER PAULSON; ERIK JOHN HASENOEHRL
REQUEST
<td>Number:</td><td>International Presentation Date:</td>
<td>MX / a / 2015/000780</td><td>July 17, 2013</td>
PRIORITY
Country: Coot: Number:
US July 17, 2012 13 / 551,562
Validity: Twenty years
Expiration Date: July 17, 2033
Issue Date: July 20, 2017 .....
The reference patent is granted based on articles 1<sup>or</sup>, 2 "section V, 6" section MI, and 59 of the Industrial Property Law.
In accordance with article 23 of the Industrial Property Law, this patent is valid for twenty years, non-extendable from the date of filing the international application and will be subject to payment of the fee to keep the rights in force.
Whoever signs this title does so based on the provisions of articles 6<sup>or</sup> Sections III and 7 bis 2 of the Industrial Property Law (Official Gazette of the Federation (DO.F.) 06/27/1991, amended on 08/02/1966, 10/25/1966, 12/26/1997 , 06/17/1999, 01/26/2004, 06/16/2005, 01/25/2006, 05/06/2009, 01/06/2010, 06/18/2010, 06/06/2010, 27 / 01/2012 and 09/04/2012); articles 1<sup>or</sup>, 3 «fraction V subsection a), 4<sup>or</sup> and 12<sup>or</sup> Sections I and III of the Regulations of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (D.OF. 12/14/1999, amended on 07/01/2002, 07/15/2004, 07/28/2004 and 09/07/2007) ; items Γ, 3<sup>or</sup>, 4<sup>or</sup>, 5th section V subsection a), 16 sections I and III and 30 of the Organic Statute of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (DOF 12/27/1999, amended on 10/10/2002, 07/29/2004, 04 / 08/2004 and 09/13/2007): 1<sup>or</sup>, 3<sup>or</sup> and 5 '«part a) of the Agreement that delegates powers to the Deputy General Directors, Coordinator, Divisional Directors, Heads of Regional Offices, Divisional Deputy Directors, Departmental Coordinators and other subordinates of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property. (DOF 12/15/1999, amended on 02/04/2000, 07/29/2004, 08/04/2004 and 09/13/2007).
This document is signed with an advanced electronic signature (FIEL), based on articles 7 BIS 2 of the Industrial Property Law; 3 of its Regulations, and 1 section III, 2 section V, 26 BIS and 26 TÉR of the Agreement establishing the guidelines for the use of the Payment Portal and Electronic Services (PASE) of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property, in the procedures indicated.
THE DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OF PATENTS
NAHANNY CANAL REYES
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HOME NETWORK OF CONNECTED CONSUMER DEVICEST <
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Low-power personal area networks, such as ZigBee, Z-Wave, Insteon, JenNet-IP, X10, or the like, are becoming more and more prevalent. Currently, home appliances, lighting, heating and cooling devices, security and monitoring systems, entertainment systems, communications, lawn sprinklers, etc. They include control microprocessors and wireless communication devices to allow wireless connection to the home network. This allows control of these devices to reside in smartphones, PDAs, laptops, desktops, or other devices where an easy-to-use software control interface exists, or control can reside in the cloud internet, with a single local interface.
There are several different ways to organize and configure these networks. Existing technologies can group home devices into groups based on the ability to communicate using visible light, ultrasound, infrared light, radio frequency, and other communication technologies, allowing devices to be organized into groups based on limited space in the room. they reside, as well as the type of device they represent. Integrating a microprocessor in each of the devices allows them to receive programming that gives a high degree of flexibility to the user. However, the sheer number of configurations available can be overwhelming for the typical user.
Most of the network technologies used in these cases are relatively complicated and difficult for a consumer to use. Add, authenticate, and go to><sup>1</sup> configuring new devices and types may involve teieontaaí ^^
INDUSTRIAL trained to carry out the installation. As the cost of microprocessors, memories, displays, transmitters and receivers for radio and line-of-sight communications decreases, the cost of adding these capabilities to inexpensive and even disposable consumer products has become possible. This leads to a new set of challenges in terms of consumers and networks.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a device of a consumer product.
Figure 2 shows a block diagram of one embodiment of a communications portion of a device in a network.
Figure 3 shows an embodiment of a lighting device.
Figure 4 shows an alternative embodiment of a lighting device.
Figure 5 shows a diagram of an embodiment of a fabric having multiple potential nodes in an ad hoc wireless network.
Figure 6 shows a flow chart of one embodiment of a method for creating a room list.
Figure 7 shows a flow chart of one embodiment of a method for assigning a function to a room.
Figure 8 shows a flow chart of one embodiment of a method for determining and executing an action based on a wireless ad hoc network configuration.
Figure 9 shows a lihá modáílidad flow diagram for developing a three-dimensional representation of a house.
Figure 10 shows an example of a three-dimensional representation of nodes in a structure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE MODALITIES OF THE INVENTION
General node v non-lighting device
Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a consumer product device that is network capable. Device 10 has a receiver or adapter 12 that contains a consumer product. The consumer product can be one of several products. For example, the consumer product may consist of a dispenser of a consumer product that doses or delivers some type of consumer product, such as shaving cream, environmental modifier, toothpaste, lotion, shampoo, cotton swabs, leaves of razors, tissues, etc. The consumer product may consist of non-electrically powered implements such as a razor, toothbrush, duster, broom, mop, scrub brush, toilet brush, etc. The consumer product may consist of electrically powered devices, such as a coffee maker or other kitchen appliance, such as a toaster oven, a television set, a hair dryer, a vacuum cleaner, an air purifier, a humidifier, etc. These are only intended to be examples of electrically actuated and non-electrically actuated products and are not in any way limited or inferred to be limited to a particular product or configuration. Consumer products, as defined in the present description, do not have any network communication capabilities. In these devices, communication only takes the form of local communications, such as user interfaces, warning lights, etc.
IMPI
Receiver 12 snaps onto the device ^^^ that the consumer device is mechanically connected in any other way, and possibly electrically, to the consumer product device 10. For electrically actuated devices, the receiver 12 It may include a standard 2-pin or 3-pin receiver, such as the one seen on electrical outlets.
The consumer product device further includes at least one communications hub or module 14. The communications hub may comprise a communications module or several communications modules, each with a different type of communications technology. For example, the communication module may consist of a room-limited communication module. "Room limited" means that the communication medium of this device uses signals that generally do not cross barriers, such as walls, floors and ceilings. Examples include line of sight signals, such as optical and acoustic signals. Additionally, the communication modules may consist of, or include, a room-transparent communication module. “Transparent to the room” means that the device's communication medium is not limited by walls and floors. These barriers can attenuate the signal, but generally do not interrupt it. The communications hub 14 may contain one of these types of modules, or both, and may contain more than one of each type, such as two modules limited to rooms and one transparent to the room, etc. each with its own ability to connect to other devices in an ad hoc mesh architecture network.
Networking capability allows devices that would not otherwise have this capability to enter and exit an ad hoc mesh network and communicate with other devices that also may not have that capability. When these devices and products are provided with the ability to communicate and coordinate with other devices, the usuafWpúédeacíministráf ^ tií ^ ios ü; '.λ.,., .., 0 ·., ^ isr.!' , 'ri .1 _____aspects of the house.
The consumer product device may further include a power connector 17 electrically coupled to the communications module. The power connector can take many forms, but typically consists of a standard 2- or 3-pin plug. The power connector provides power to the communications module and can additionally provide power to the device portion of the consumer product.
Other variants and modifications of the device of the consumer product are possible. For example, a sensor 18 may allow the user to track a level of the consumer product within the receiver 12. For example, if the consumer product consists of a dispenser of some kind, the sensor may be a light sensor. The light sensor could be positioned in such a way that the light to the sensor is blocked by the consumer product. When the consumer product runs out, the light will hit the sensor and indicate that the dispenser is almost empty. Other types of sensors can include heat sensors, weight sensors, accelerometers, diagnostic sensors, air quality sensors, VOC (volatile organic compound) sensors, etc. Using the network capability of the device, detecting the health of the consumer product can trigger actions that will be described in detail later.
Figure 2 shows one embodiment of the communication module 14 that provides the network capability. The module may contain a module 26 transparent to the room. The transparent module for the room may be radio equipment, in which case it may have an associated antenna 22. Radio equipment can communicate over one of many different types of protocols, but will most likely use a packet-based protocol, such as the IP protocol. Even more particularly, the
IMPI protocol can be one of IP version 6 (IPv6), such as IPvS ^ sqt ^ fec ^ <sup>1</sup> INDUSTRIAL '
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low-power wireless terminal (6L0WPAN) or the Neighborhood Exchange Protocol.
Figure 2 shows a room-transparent and a room-limited communication module, and it is understood that only one is needed to provide network capability. As mentioned above, the room-limited communication module generally consists of a light from a visual communication module, such as an infrared light, visible light, and ultrasonic signals or other acoustic signals, etc. When a receiver is not within the vision of the transmitter, the receiver will not receive the signal. The line-of-sight communication module may have an emitter, such as emitter 24, coupled to it.
Typically, the communications module 14 receives power from an electrical outlet or a battery through the power connector 16. However, the power connector 16 may additionally consist of a wireless power receiver. In some cases, a base device can transmit a signal to a receiver that can convert the signal into power for the receiver. Currently, these types of receivers have very limited functionality due to the limited amount of energy they receive, and limited range due to losses in the signal that carries the energy. However, solutions to these problems may be contemplated in the future, and the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to direct power connections. Additionally, the device can include both types of power connectors. The device can be configured such that the communication modules have extended range when connected to power.
Of course, other optional components are possible. For example, memory 20 may reside within the communications hub, within each
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. * DE LA · Ε, piei / p; industrial communications module, elsewhere in the device, or be a memo or networked, as is common in computing in nuBe. If there is also a controller 20 separate from the communications module, each module may have its own controller, with a central device controller separate from those, or a networked controller.
In addition to sensors configured to detect the status of consumer products, other types of sensors may exist in the device, or the sensor may reside in its own node. The sensor can be a security sensor, a radio frequency identification tag, a barcode reader or an environmental sensor, motion sensor, sound sensor, odor sensor, smoke detector, airborne particulate sensors , dust and pollen sensor, air purification system, metrology, airborne biological agent sensor, virus and bacteria sensors, surface contaminant sensors, sanitary sensors, water quality sensors, humidity sensors, etc. Environmental sensors can detect air quality, light level, temperature, and air flow. For example, a sensor that detects air quality can determine that the room needs to renew it and can send a signal through the network to the ambient modifier to freshen the air. For lighting applications, the sensor could send information about the level of light that would cause one or more lighting fixtures to turn on. Lighting devices as nodes will be described in detail later.
Referring to Figure 1, the communications module may additionally have an optional direct-connect communications port, such as a USB or IEEE 1394 (Firewire) port 17. This may give the user the ability to connect the device to a computing device for initial setup or programming, updating firmware or software, as well as allowing the device to connect directly to a device
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consumption that has a similar port, such as an audio equipment or a television. Erpuertó 17 can also allow connection to a “réCr” access door or access point to provide connection to an external network, such as the Internet.
Lighting products
Until now, the description has focused on consumer products that are not lighting products, which include both light bulbs, which are any type of lighting item that screws into a socket to receive power when turned on and can include the light bulbs. Traditional incandescent bulbs, LED bulbs, compact fluorescent bulbs (CFL), etc. and other lighting products, such as lamps. Also, new forms of light that can obtain energy through alternative means, such as batteries, induction, sonic, etc. Figure 3 shows one embodiment of an adapter 30 for use with a light bulb. Communications module 14 is part of a housing wherein the housing has a light emitting receptacle 32 configured to accept a light bulb. This allows the use of typical household light bulbs in place of bulbs that already include expensive adapters, referred to herein as fully integrated light bulbs, or specialized sockets having centrally controllable processors and other adapters. Fully integrated light bulbs with lists and room identifiers.
Alternatively, the light-emitting receptacle 32 could take the form of a plug in an outlet similar to an outlet, as shown in Figure 4. In this embodiment, the rear side of the adapter would resemble the rear side of the adapter shown as 16 in Figure 1. The communications module 14 will have one of the communications module limited to the room or the communications module
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The light emitting receptacle could accept an aj-hu · ι · bulb »<sub>π</sub> i - <sub>0</sub> lick? η ·· ^ has a power cord, or a light that has a built-in power connector, such as the one seen in hazard lights, for example.
Similar to the non-lighting adapter described above, the lighting fixture may further include a sensor. The sensor will typically consist of a light sensor, but may additionally consist of a temperature sensor, a smoke detector, etc. The sensor can communicate with a controller resident in adapter 30 or it can communicate with a controller located in other lighting or non-lighting devices on the ad hoc network. Controller can control power connection, enable or disable power switching at the light emitter as dictated by sensor inputs combined, possibly, with user input on desired lighting levels for particular times of day or specific activities .
The lighting fixture can form an ad hoc mesh network, in which devices enter and exit the network at will, and all devices on the network can communicate with any device and with all devices within range. While there may be a central controller, each device may also have its own controller. Instead of a central controller, a device can be designated as a master node and provide control signals to the other nodes. In accordance with known ad hoc mesh network protocols, a node may designate itself as a master node, typically based on its ability to connect the ad hoc mesh network to other networks. In the absence of such a node, the nodes will arbitrate which one is the master. The specific details of these processes are not the focus of the description.
Until now, the description has focused on providing products of
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consumption with the ability to form ad hoc wireless mesh networks. 'EtígÉadO'Cle intelligence of these consumer products can vary from a relatively “silly” group, such as light bulbs, sweepers, environmental modifiers, etc., to a high degree of sophistication, such as in computing and electronic devices. of consumption. Having networks of devices with these capabilities can allow a user to segment the nodes of the network into rooms in the house or structure without any prior knowledge of the house plan.
Room list / room identifiers
Figure 5 shows an example of a house floor plan. The techniques used in this case can be applied to any structure, such as an office building or a hospital, that has more than one room. This description, which focuses on consumer products, will use a house as an illustrative structure. This selection is not intended to be limiting nor should any limitation be inferred from it. The nodes in this network reside in rooms, but the user does not need to know or have the floor plan. It should be mentioned that the user of the techniques and modalities is not, necessarily, a human consumer. The 'user' can be a computing device used by a human consumer to gather information in a way that the consumer does not need to do so.
Figure 6 shows a flow chart of one embodiment of a method for determining the nodes that reside in each room. The ad hoc mesh network is formed in 40. This can include distributing the nodes and then having them broadcast signals to notify any node in the area of their presence. The nodes can be lighting products or consumer products, such as those described above. As part of the network formation, nodes can send signals and determine the presence of
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At 42, the signals between the nodes are srratizarntonele-pysde - ^^ analysis, in various places, such as the network, the node, the cloud. Relative to the floor plan in Figure 5, some nodes will see nodes that other nodes cannot “see”, where “seeing” a node means detecting the presence of the node. For example, node I can see nodes J, A, and H. However, node J can also see node L and node K. Node K can see node M. By analyzing the signals, it can be determined that node J cannot see node M, so there must be a wall between nodes J and M. Similarly, node I can see node H through the gate , but node I cannot see node G, even though node I knows about node G through node H information.
Beyond this analysis, the nodes can also determine the distances between them. A receiving node can determine the time of a transmission from another node, and from this determine the distance between the nodes, although not necessarily the orientation. By using these two types of analysis, as an example, one can determine the rooms within a structure. Based on the line of sight data, it is possible to segment the nodes into rooms. Furthermore, based on the strength of the received signal, the network can determine the approximate dimensions of the rooms. The nodes can have multiple ways of detecting each other, such as optically, electrically, via sensors, etc.
The previous analysis only assumes the use of a communication module limited to the room. In some embodiments, the nodes may additionally use a room-transparent communications module. In this case, the nodes can identify each other without relying on communication limited to the room. By combining this data with the signal data line, the network can identify walls and openings between nodes and segment the nodes into haíLach ^ s ^ n 44oí ^ -eiérhplo, in ΟΕΙ.ΛΡΚΟΠίΓΛΠ
In relation to figure 5, node I can know the existence of node C on the basis of the transparent communication module for the room. However, when looking at signals confined to the room, it could not detect the presence of node C, indicating the presence of a wall or other barrier between them.
Once the nodes are segmented into rooms, the node information is updated to associate that node with that room at 46. One of the nodes on the network may include non-volatile memory, or the non-volatile memory may reside externally. to the network, but in communication with one of the nodes. The list of rooms and nodes associated with rooms can be stored in this memory. The node on which the non-volatile memory or has the link to the non-volatile memory can be a master node, as previously discussed. Since these nodes can be attached to consumer products or involve consumer products that can be moved by a user or be mobile themselves, this process can be repeated periodically to acquire updated information.
It should be noted that although the previous process focuses on the segmentation of the nodes in the rooms, it is possible to segment the devices, in addition, into other types of segments, such as segmenting them by user, type of device, etc. This discussion concentrates on room segmentation, but the use of other types of segments should be considered within the scope of the embodiments presented in this invention.
Objective of the room
Once the nodes are segmented into rooms and the nodes are associated with those rooms, the network can determine a target for each room.
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Figure 7 shows a flow diagram of a method of w'metodb ^ Éa ^ assigning a target to the room. Processes 50-56 copy the -deteRgHfa-G-Gon-up-anáüsisj of the signals similar, if not equal, to that of the segmentation of the nodes into rooms. The nodes form the network at 50, and the signals between the nodes are analyzed. As mentioned, analysis can occur on each individual node, on a master node if one is designated, on the network, in the cloud, etc. Having segmented the nodes into rooms, the network would then obtain the identity of one of the nodes in the room, at 58.
Obtaining the identity of one of the nodes in the room can take many forms. The nodes themselves may have information that they encode in the signals they transmit, such as a device identifier, a name, etc. The user can install this information on the node when it is activated, by using a USB port or a resident interface on the node. The node will have this information in what will be referred to here as 'node data'. The node data includes any information about the node, such as the type of device on the node, the state of the device, such as full or nearly empty, its power state, what other nodes it is connected to, and so on.
In one embodiment, the node data consists of at least one identifier for the device residing at the node. The node or other node on the network accesses the identifier database and uses the device identifier as an index in the database. The resulting information provides the network with more information about the node. For example, the device may be identified by a SKU (stock holding unit) reference number. Access to the database results in the SKU being identified as a toothbrush. In addition, there may be other types of identifiers. The identifier can be a barcode, a network address, a presumed identity based on an analysis of the surrounding devices or information about the environment, etc.
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On the basis of this information, the network can assign a function to the room, at 60, in this example where the brush deiO'tlUIIU lUblduiiua in ol-bath.
The database can also take many forms. It can be a product database with lots of information, or just a small look-up table, as well as any conceivable option within those extremes. The database may reside in non-volatile memory at a node on the network, or it may reside externally to the network, but be accessible through a link to the external network.
Access to the database can also be layered. A first database can identify a particular device, such as a toothbrush, triggering access to a second database that provides more information about the toothbrush, such as a model number or brand. In one embodiment, the accessed database may consist of a database populated by consumers who have similar networks and may have a better understanding to assign the function in the room.
The database can be organized in many different ways. In one embodiment, it consists of a node table, a room table, and associations between the node table and the room table. In another, it consists of a table of nodes in the wireless network, a table of rooms in the house, a list of room functions, and associations between room functions, rooms, and nodes.
In one embodiment, the information contained in the room list can be useful in assigning a function to the room. If the room list is stored by using the identity to assign a function to the room, it could be based on an ordinary room list. Alternatively, the rooms feature could be assigned based on an old or older list of • INSTiTJrc MBiWa<sup>1</sup> ¢./ , <sub>w</sub>. PE La l'RGné ΓζΑί *<sup>χ</sup> rooms, a list of current node functions, a list of historical node functions, current node location data, historical node data, current sensor data, historical sensor data, data preference data. user, an external database of room functions, home plans, and external home-related data.
Actions
Having identified a target for the room, the network may have the ability to act on the basis of the room target and the existing nodes in the room. One embodiment of this process is illustrated in Figure 8. In one embodiment, at 62, the network has a node associated with a consumer product, such as an air purifier dispenser, it being understood that the node may be associated with any type of consumer product device, as discussed in connection with Figure 1. Additionally, the network has a node with a computing device, such as node A, which has a link to an internal or external network.
At 62, the consumer product node sends data to the computing device node. This data is node data, discussed above, and can include a node identifier, consumer product status, power status, and so on. The computing device could then access the database at 64 to collect more data about the node and associate that data with the node data. The computing device may make the determination of an action to take in relation to the node device at 66 and execute that action at 68. The action may be internal or external to the network.
Internal actions can involve altering the function of the node, such as stopping it, slowing it down, reducing usage, etc. It may involve
<img file="MX349290B_D0008.tif" />
association of devices to the current node whose operation is ^^ the activation of another device if one is running out of supply. In addition, it may involve updating an internal database, such as a shopping list to be provided to a user that identifies the supplies needed at a particular node, or sending a message to the user within the network.
Outside actions may involve sending a text message to a user through a link to a cell phone network, sending an email through an Internet gateway and mail client, accessing a e-commerce gateway for ordering more supplies or access to information about devices residing on a node in an external database.
For example, suppose the node has an air purifier dispenser. The node data includes an identifier that identifies the device as an air cleaner and its status, indicating the amount of purifier remaining in the canister. The node transmits the data to the computing device. The computing device has access to a database, internal or external, and determines that based on quantity, the receptacle is almost empty. The database in this case can simply be a list stored in memory. The computing device then identifies different actions on the basis that the receptacle is almost empty. The device can contact the user to notify them of the status. The device can access an e-commerce gateway and order more air purifier. The device can also stop the air purifier to prevent the air purifier device from wearing out.
The selection of the action to execute may involve the input of sensor data, the input of user data, the preconditions set by the user,
ΙΜΡΐ / ΜΜ etc. For example, a sensor can detect that the air flow a'W ^^ ijn ^ lfed®<sup>:</sup>The air has dropped below a particular threshold, indicating that the filter needs cleaning. This information can help the network select the action to take.
In this way, the network obtains valuable information about the devices at the nodes of the network, allowing the network to provide services to the user automatically. The more tasks and services the network can handle, the easier it is for the user to use the products and the network. Other benefits may also arise from having a network like that in a structure.
Home discovery
As mentioned above in relation to the structure diagram, the user may not have plans or floor plans available to enter the data into the network. However, nodes on the network may 'see' the structure in a different way. A benefit of the network may lie in its ability to develop a three-dimensional representation of the structure.
Figure 9 illustrates one embodiment of a method for performing a 'home discovery' in which the device network generates a three-dimensional representation of the home. At 80, a network is provided that has at least three nodes. Using three nodes allows one node to triangulate its position relative to the other two nodes. Generally, the communication modules in these nodes will be the transparent modules for the room. Having three nodes provides enough information for signal analysis, and since one of the nodes may reside on a different floor, modules limited to the room would not allow another node to see that node.
By using the time of flight of the signals between the three nodes, as illustrated in Figure 10, the analysis of the signals can produce a diagram <sup>18</sup> WICKED
INSTITUTO MEXICAN '<.!
> F LA FROPIE 'A'l general of the nodes within a structure. In addition, if you analyze the signals, there may also be other information. Knowing the type of node and if the node is mobile * can also be useful.
For example, one of the nodes can be attached to a floor sweeper, such as a Swiffer® dust mop. The movement of the floor mop during use provides information on where there are uncarpeted floors, in addition to providing more triangulation data on the location of the other two nodes. In another example, the node can be attached to a robotic vacuum cleaner, such as a Roomba®. This would allow for the identification of carpeted surfaces, as well as possible information on the location of furniture in the rooms. Of course, other mobile nodes are possible. The user can even use a duster or other type of 'stick' structure and map the structure to the net. Still another alternative could involve binding a node to a pet.
More information results in a more accurate representation of the home. The above discussion focuses on the use of the transparent communication module for the room as a means of locating the nodes. However, previous discussions also include the ability to use room-limited modules, as well as room segmentation and room targets that have been previously identified. All this information can be used to generate a three-dimensional representation of the home, as well as signal analysis. This information can be stored within a network or external to it, but be accessible by at least one node.
The above embodiments provide a convenient, simple, and easy-to-use way for a user to establish a network of consumer product nodes in a home. The network collects information for the user or can act more
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Autonomous MEXICAN INSTITUTE. The end result is a network of devices that will cool down your home and enjoy it. -_______________—------- It will be appreciated that several of the above and other features and functions, as well as alternatives to these, can be conveniently combined in many different systems or applications. Likewise, it will be appreciated that various alternatives, modifications, variations or improvements of these, not currently foreseen or anticipated, whose object is to be further included in the claims below, may be made later by those skilled in the art.
<img file="MX349290B_D0009.tif" />
Contents11
13 sheets
Sheet 1 Sheet 2 Sheet 3 Sheet 4 Sheet 5 Sheet 6 Sheet 7 Sheet 8 Sheet 9 Sheet 10 Sheet 11 Sheet 12 Sheet 13
24 members in 7 offices
Priority claims9
| Document | Office | Kind | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| 13551562 | United States of America | – | |
| 201213551562 | United States of America | A | |
| 201213551562 | United States of America | A | |
| 2013050837 | United States of America | W | |
| 2013050837 | United States of America | W | |
| 13551562 | – | – | – |
| PCTUS2013050837 | – | – | – |
| US201213551562 | – | – | – |
| WO2013US50837 | – | – | – |
Members24
| Document | Office | Kind | |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2879641A1 | Canada | A1 | |
| CA2879649A1 | Canada | A1 | |
| US2014023060A1 | United States of America | A1 | |
| US2014025805A1 | United States of America | A1 | |
| WO2014015007A1 | World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) | A1 | |
| WO2014015009A2 | World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) | A2 | |
| WO2014015009A3 | World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) | A3 | |
| WO2014015009A3 | World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) | A3 | |
| CN104487860A | China | A | |
| CN104508506A | China | A | |
| MX2015000705A | Mexico | A | |
| MX2015000780A | Mexico | A | |
| EP2875374A1 | European Patent Office (EPO) | A1 | |
| EP2875375A2 | European Patent Office (EPO) | A2 | |
| JP2015530008A | Japan | A | |
| JP2015532796A | Japan | A | |
| JP6010226B2 | Japan | B2 | |
| JP6085027B2 | Japan | B2 | |
| CN104487860B | China | B | |
| MX349290BThis record | Mexico | B | |
| CN104508506B | China | B | |
| US10165654B2 | United States of America | B2 | |
| EP2875374B1 | European Patent Office (EPO) | B1 | |
| EP2875375B1 | European Patent Office (EPO) | B1 |
1 legal event, as the office reported them to INPADOC
Events
| Event | Code | |
|---|---|---|
| Grant or registrationFG | FG |
Numbers
- Publication
- 349290
- Publication, DOCDB
- 349290
- Publication, EPODOC
- MX349290
- Application
- 2015000780
- Application, DOCDB
- 2015000780
- Application, EPODOC
- MX20150000780
Titles2
- Spanish
- RED HOGAREÑA DE DISPOSITIVOS DE CONSUMO CONECTADOS.
- English
- HOME NETWORK OF CONNECTED CONSUMER DEVICES.
Classification
- CPC, 11
- G01S1/76
- H04B11/00
- H04L12/2803
- G01S5/16
- G01S5/18
- H04B10/1149
- H04B10/116
- G01S1/725
- G08B21/18
- G01S1/753
- H05B47/19
- IPC, 7
- G01S1 68
- G07F11 00
- H04B10 114
- H04B11 00
- H04L12 28
- H04W4 04
- H05B41 00