Signal cloning

Systems, apparatuses, and methods relating to security and/or automation systems are described. In one embodiment, a method may include receiving linking information from a first device by a second device, linking the second device with the first device via a first connection, the linking based at least in part on the linking information, storing at least a portion of the linking information, and transmitting the stored linking information from the second device to one or more other devices via a second connection.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure generally relates to security and/or automation systems, and more particularly to methods for cloning one or more signals, characteristics, and/or connections, which may include transmitting certain information about one or more signals, characteristics, and/or connections to one or more other devices.

Security and automation systems are widely deployed to provide various types of communication and functional features such as monitoring, communication, notification, and/or other functions. These systems may be capable of supporting communication with a user through a communication connection and/or a system management action.

Current systems require users to carry physical keys and/or use a pin code to enter a structure, such as a home. But these keys and pin codes can be burdensome, be lost, lead to forgotten keypad codes, lead to difficulty activating the keypad, lead to mechanical or electrical malfunctions, and/or entry by an inappropriate party who gained access to the key or the keypad code—among other problems.

In addition, current systems require certain types of connections to provide a secure connection between two devices. For example, Bluetooth technology may provide some advantages over other connection types because of its rotating frequency. But this technology has distinct drawbacks, including requiring one-to-one pairing that becomes extremely complicated, unwieldy, and burdensome on users—particularly with complex home security and/or automation applications.

SUMMARY

In many cases, one-to-one pairing becomes extremely complicated, unwieldy, and burdensome on users—particularly with home security and/or automation applications. In some cases a home, for example, may have 4 main users each having a short range wireless communication protocol device (e.g., a Bluetooth device, a near field communication (NFC) device, etc.) and 10 in-home short range wireless communication protocol devices (e.g., Bluetooth-enabled devices, NFC devices, etc.). Current systems would require at least 40 connections (each of the 4 users having 10 connections or more) leading to extremely complicated and difficult to manage systems.

The proposed solutions include, among other things, cloning a signal, a characteristic, and/or a connection, and transmitting at least some of the relevant information relating to the signal, the characteristic, and/or the connection to other devices. This reduces any requirement for numerous one-to-one connections, while also expanding the functionality of the system at least by enabling these other devices to perform additional functions and/or communicate in ways they otherwise would not be able to. In addition, the present systems and methods may provide additional functionality including relative location-based automation and features.

According to at least one embodiment, a method for security and/or automation systems is described. In some embodiments, the method may include receiving linking information from a first device by a second device, linking the second device with the first device via a first connection, the linking based at least in part on the linking information, storing at least a portion of the linking information, and/or transmitting the stored linking information from the second device to one or more other devices via a second connection.

In some embodiments, the method may include transmitting linking information to the first device. In some embodiments, the first device may include a mobile phone, a portable electronic device securable to a user or a user's clothing, and/or a key fob.

In some embodiments, linking the second device with the first device via the first connection may include linking via a Bluetooth connection. In some embodiments, the linking information may include pairing information. In some embodiments, the pairing information may include at least one of legacy pairing information, secure simple pairing information, and/or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the method may include linking the first device directly to each of the one or more other devices based at least in part on the transmitting.

In some embodiments, the linking information may include at least one of a link key, a media access control (MAC) address of the first device, a clone of a media access control (MAC) address of the second device, and/or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the method may include establishing the second connection, wherein the second connection may include a secure connection.

In some embodiments, establishing the second connection may include sending secure data between the second device and the one or more other devices. In some embodiments, the secure data may include at least one of a key and a secret. In some embodiments, the second connection may include a wired connection.

In some embodiments, the second connection may include a non-Bluetooth connection.

In some embodiments, receiving linking information from the first device by the second device may include receiving a user input from the first device by the second device. In some embodiments, the user input may include at least one of a pin and a password.

In some embodiments, the second connection may include a direct connection between the second device and the one or more other devices.

In some embodiments, the second connection may include a network connection between the second device and the one or more other devices.

In some embodiments, the second device may include a system panel.

According to at least one embodiment, an apparatus for security and/or automation systems is described. In some embodiments, this apparatus may include a second device to communicate with a first device via a first connection, the second device to communicate with one or more other devices via a second connection, a processor, memory in electronic communication with the processor, and/or instructions stored in the memory, the instructions being executable by the processor to: receive linking information from the first device by the second device, link the second device with the first device via the first connection, the linking based at least in part on the linking information, store at least a portion of the linking information, and/or transmit the stored linking information from the second device to the one or more other devices via the second connection.

In some embodiments, the second device may include a security system panel. In some embodiments, the first device may include a mobile phone, a portable electronic device securable to a user or a user's clothing, and/or a key fob.

According to at least one embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing computer executable code for security and/or automation systems is described. In some embodiments, the code is executable by a processor to: receive linking information from a first device by a second device, link the second device with the first device via a first connection, the linking based at least in part on the linking information, store at least a portion of the linking information, and/or transmit the stored linking information from the second device to one or more other devices via a second connection.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Because electronic systems continue to develop and become more complex—including using numerous related and/or connected devices—there exists a need to help connect multiple devices without requiring burdensome and complicated procedures, while also enhancing functionality. The present systems and methods clone a signal, a characteristic, and/a connection between two devices and use this cloned information with other devices. This decreases system complexity, increases functionality, and provides a better user-centered experience.

The following description provides examples and is not limiting of the scope, applicability, and/or examples set forth in the claims. Changes may be made in the function and/or arrangement of elements discussed without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Various examples may omit, substitute, and/or add various procedures and/or components as appropriate. For instance, the methods described may be performed in an order different from that described, and/or various steps may be added, omitted, and/or combined. Also, features described with respect to some examples may be combined in other examples.

In some embodiments, one or more devices may be used to enable entry into a structure—such as a home and/or a business. In some embodiments, these one or more devices may include a smartphone, wearables (e.g., Fitbit, NikeFuelBand, etc.), key fobs, shoes and/or clothing with electronic chips, watches, glasses, and/or other devices. At least some of these devices may be Bluetooth enabled.

In some embodiments, access to a structure may be based at least in part on having a particular device. For example, a system—such as a security and/or an automation system—may tie a certain device (e.g., a first device, device A) to a certain person (e.g., user A). In some embodiments, access to a structure may be based at least in part on the proximity of a particular device to a structure and/or a another device, and/or a signal strength related to a particular device's signal and/or connection. For example, whether user A is able to enter a structure may depend at least in part on one or more of: the proximity of device A to a structure itself, a device within a structure (e.g., a second device), and/or the strength of a signal and/or a connection relating to device A and/or another device.

Bluetooth technology—unlike some other commonly used signals and connections (e.g., Wi-Fi, etc.)—utilizes frequency shifting, which means that the frequency for the communication of the two Bluetooth-paired devices changes over time. This shifting provides for a more secure connection compared to other systems, including systems that may continually send out a periodic signal at a designated frequency. Using a Bluetooth (including Bluetooth, legacy Bluetooth, Bluetooth 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, 4.0, 4.1, etc., and/or Bluetooth Low Energy (sometimes called Ultra Low Bluetooth) sometime include Secure Simple Pairing) connection also provides a tool for wide-reaching implementation that becomes increasingly available as even more people own and/or regularly use Bluetooth-enabled devices.

Other types of communication technology including, but not limited to, short range wireless communication protocol and/or near field communication (NFC) may also be used instead of, in addition to, and/or in conjunction with Bluetooth and/or other communication methods.

Bluetooth technology is only one example and should not be construed to limit this disclosure that applies with equal force to other short range wireless communication protocols and technologies. In some embodiments, the short range wireless communication protocols that may be used will be capable of requiring authentication of at least some information communicated between one or more elements, encrypting at least some information communicated between one or more elements, and/or sharing one or more pieces of confidential information (e.g., keys that may include link keys, etc.).

But Bluetooth technology requires a one-to-one pairing that may be described as a master-slave relationship. This one-to-one pairing, however, requires a distinct connection between the devices and in systems having multiple user devices and/or multiple in-structure devices numerous one-to-one connections may present difficult problems.

In some embodiments, other functions related to this cloning technology may be carried out and/or performed relative to devices outside and/or inside a particular structure. For example, a business may include multiple devices (i.e., lights, cameras, locks, computers, televisions, speakers, etc.) that are enabled to communicate with a user's device. In some embodiments, the multiple devices may communicate with one or more users' devices using a Bluetooth connection.

By using the present systems and/or methods described in this disclosure, user devices and structural devices may be able to better communicate and/or not rely on one direct, linear connection. For example, using the present systems and/or methods, the first device may communicate with the second device and/or the other devices directly (e.g., third, fourth, and/or other devices). In addition, the second device may communicate with the first device and/or the other devices (e.g., third, fourth, and/or other devices). In addition, the other devices (e.g., third, fourth, and/or other devices) may communicate with the first device and/or the second devices.

In some embodiments, at least some—if not all—of these devices may communicate directly without requiring another device and/or without communicating through another device. For example, assuming a first device and a second device are linked using a connection (e.g., a Bluetooth connection) and other devices are connected, as a user changes location inside and/or outside a structure or other location, the other devices can communicate with the first and or the second devices despite only establishing the first connection one time (e.g., only pairing the first device with the one second device).

For example, a user's smartphone may pair using a Bluetooth connection with a first speaker in a home. This connection can then be cloned and as a user moves throughout the house the user's smartphone may communicate with other speakers and/or devices—despite not being paired with the other speakers and/or devices. In addition, as the user moves outside the home, the user's smartphone may communicate with other devices and/or speakers (e.g., a user's car)—all without having to pair directly with all the other devices (speakers, cars, etc.).

In other embodiments, at least some—if not all—of these devices may communicate indirectly using another device as an intermediate and/or by communicating through another device.

In addition, using location-based permissions, one or more users may be authorized and/or prohibited from accessing one or more areas, rooms, devices, locks, etc. For example, a system may be able to notify a first user (e.g., a parent) if another user (e.g., a child) accesses and/or attempts to access a particular area (e.g., a home office), a particular device (e.g., a gun safe, a computer), and/or other devices—based on one or more parameters. These parameters may include user preferences, system preferences and/or limitations, device preferences and/or limitations, and/or others.

In some embodiments, creating a connection between multiple devices includes sharing one or more keys between the multiple devices. These one or more keys may facilitate sharing information between the multiple devices and/or communicating between the multiple devices.

In some embodiments, information—including these one or more keys—may be cloned to other devices that are not part of a first connection. For example, a first device and a second device may communicate via a connection—where, in some embodiments, this connection may include a Bluetooth connection. In some embodiments, this Bluetooth connection may require a media access control (MAC) address and/or a key. Based at least in part on this connection (e.g., between a first device and a second device), one of the devices (e.g., the second device) may communicate information to other devices (e.g., a third device, a fourth device, etc.).

In some embodiments, this communicated information may include any information related to the connection of first device and the second device. In some embodiments, this information may include a MAC address, a key, and/or other related information, among other information. In some embodiments, this information may include a key, a MAC address of the first device, and/or a clone of a MAC address of the second device. By providing at least some of the cloned information, the other devices may be able to communicate with a first device, a second device, and/or between multiple other devices.

In some embodiments, by using at least some of this information with other devices the first device may only “see” the second devices and the other devices as one device and/or group. This provides additional features and functions—particularly from a user's perspective—because the way the system and the user's first device (e.g., a smartphone) will see the other devices is based on one group and/or one device, instead of a list of every single device. Thus, if the other devices included 20 devices, then instead of showing the second device and the 20 devices in one lengthy list the user may only see one device (e.g., the second device) and/or one group (e.g., the second device's cloned group). This creates a better user experience.

Alternatively, in some embodiments, the cloned devices and/or groups may be displayed as distinct, individual devices that the user can see, adjust, monitor, etc.

In some embodiments, some of the devices described in this disclosure may include smartphones, wearables (e.g., Fitbit, NikeFuelBand, etc.), key fobs, shoes and/or clothing with electronic chips, watches, glasses, system panels, computers, and/or other devices.

In some embodiments, the sharing of the cloned information (e.g., a key, a MAC address) related to one or more devices is performed by having a device (such as the second device, e.g., a system panel, a door lock, a doorbell system, etc.) assemble and communicate certain information to one or more third devices (e.g., lights, cameras, locks, door locks, computers, televisions, monitors, clocks, entertainment systems, music players, thermostats, speakers, cars, vehicles, etc.), and/or other additional devices.

In some embodiments, communication to the third device (and/or other devices) may be unicast, multicast, broadcast, and/or otherwise sent. In some embodiments, after the third device receives this information, this third device (and/or one or more other related devices) would then store the cloned information (e.g., using a table in memory, etc.).

In some embodiments, at least one device may correlate at least some of the stored information with one or more users. One or more rules and/or settings may facilitate, inhibit, and/or prohibit certain actions based at least in part on correlating the stored information with one or more users.

For example, certain stored information may be correlated with a non-administrator user that may have limited access to certain devices, areas, and/or other characteristics associated with the system—including, limiting the non-administrator user's entry into a room, an area, and/or use of one or more devices. As another example, a non-administrator user may be prohibited from unlocking an interior door lock that may lead to a home office, a closet, and/or a safe room.

In some embodiments, exemplary methods and/or systems may include: a first device (e.g., a customer device) being used to scan for and/or find other Bluetooth-enabled devices. In some embodiments, a second device (e.g., a system panel) may be a Bluetooth enabled device and may be found by the first device. The first device and the second device may then pair with each other. In some embodiments, this pairing may be performed automatically, semi-automatically, and/or based on manual user instruction.

In some embodiments, this pairing may be based at least in part on: one or more instructions and/or protocols, user input, system preferences and/or settings, devices preferences and/or settings, a pin code, a pass phrase, a key, and/or based on other methods. In some embodiments, the second device may be aware of and/or capable of communication with other devices associated with and/or related to the second device, including those related to a specific customer account.

In some embodiments, the second device may clone at least some of the pairing information related to the first device and/or the second device. This cloning may occur by the second device communicating with a remote server through one or more wired and/or wireless communications, by the second device communicating directly with the other devices (e.g., a third device), and/or by other related methods.

In some embodiments, before, during, and/or after the cloning and/or the sharing of the cloned information, the second device (and/or other devices, such as a third device) may send periodic requests to initiate contact with the first device. In some embodiments, when the first device responds, the other devices (e.g., second device, third device, and/or other devices) may be able to receive one or more communications from the first device and/or perform one or more actions based at least in part on the response and/or other information. In some embodiments, the other devices, the first device, and/or the second device may use certain information—including but not limited to the first device's response—to determine relative location and/or decide if any action should be taken (e.g., unlocking a door, turning on a light, etc.).

In some embodiments, the present systems and methods facilitate communication between numerous devices based on only one set of paired devices (e.g., based on a Bluetooth pairing connection). This allows for direct communication between the numerous devices themselves, without having to always be routed through an intermediate device (e.g., a controller) and without having to pair each set of devices. Instead, the present systems and methods facilitate improved communication using a mesh communication system rather than a more-limited, linear based system—enhancing user experience by limiting organizational difficulties based on multiple, cumbersome pairings that would otherwise be required.

In some embodiments, the third device (and/or the fourth, the fifth, and/or other devices) may be designated as a Master device for communications with at least one of the first device, the second device, and/or other devices. In some embodiments, these one or more Master devices may be able to initiate and/or receive communication with the first device, the second device, and/or other devices.

In addition, in some embodiments, a different user (i.e., another non-administrator user, an administrator user) may be notified about certain rules, and/or protocols—including a prohibition related to the non-administrator user. This different user (or users) may be able to receive one or more notifications related to other users, rules, protocols, statuses, conditions, actions, events, and/or prohibitions—where at least one notification may be based at least in part on information related to one or more devices (including the first, second, third, and/or other devices).

In some embodiments, this third device may include appropriate hardware and/or software to enable this third device to listen and/or communicate with at least one of the first device and/or the second device. In some embodiments, this appropriate hardware and/or software may include a Bluetooth-compatible chip that would facilitate communication from the third device to at least one of the first device and second device—including communication based on non-Bluetooth communication. In some embodiments, this appropriate hardware and/or software may facilitate communication via radio frequency, electromagnetics, local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), virtual private network (VPN), wireless network (using 802.11, for example), 345 MHz, Z Wave, cellular network (using 3G and/or LTE, for example), and/or other signal types.

By communicating this information to the other devices (e.g., a third device), the other devices will then be able to communicate with and/or listen to at least one of the first device and the second device. This communication may be performed using radio frequency, electromagnetics, local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), virtual private network (VPN), wireless network (using 802.11, for example), 345 MHz, Z Wave, cellular network (using 3G and/or LTE, for example), and/or other signal types.

In some embodiments, after other devices are able to communicate based at least in part on the cloned information, multiple systems and/or methods may be used. For example, a first device (e.g., a smartphone) may be able to communicate directly and/or indirectly with a second device (e.g., a system panel) inside a structure (e.g., a home). An ability to communicate directly may be based at least in part on one or more parameters related to a proximity of the first device and the second device, and/or signal and/or connection characteristics related to the first device and the second device.

In another example, however, a first device (e.g., a smartphone) may not be able to communicate directly with a second device (e.g., a system panel) inside a structure (e.g., a home). In some embodiments, the first device may be able to communicate with another device (e.g., a door lock) based at least in part on a connection that is based at least in part on the cloned information, but that may not be a Bluetooth connection. Then the other device (e.g., a door lock) may be able to communicate with a second device (e.g., a system panel). This interconnectivity may facilitate and/or supplement communication between devices that may not otherwise have been able to communicate, or whose communication would have been significantly hindered and/or entirely prevented.

In some embodiments, a first signal and/or a first communication related to one or more devices may change, shift, and/or rotate based on time, events, and/or other related parameters. And, based on a first signal and/or a first communication related to some devices, other signals and/or communication may be based at least in part on this first signal and/or communications. Accordingly, the other signals (e.g., second signal and/or second communication), may also change, shift, and/or rotate based at least in part on the first signal. For example, if a first signal relating to a first unit and a second unit shifts its operating frequency, a second signal relating to the second unit and a third unit may shift its operating frequency based at least in part on the first signal.

FIG. 1is a block diagram illustrating one embodiment of a system100in which the present systems and methods may be implemented. In some embodiments, the systems and methods described here may be performed in relation to on one or more devices illustrated in system100. The system100may include first unit110, second unit105, third unit120, database125, and/or network115that allows first unit110, second unit105, third unit120, and/or database125to communicate with one another and/or other system components—directly between any of the components, indirectly through one or more intermediate components, and/or some combination.

Although elements of first unit110, second unit105, third unit120, and/or database125may be depicted as being internal to the respective components, it is understood that one or more of the elements may be external to each component and may be connected to one or more respective components (e.g.,105,110,115,120, and/or125) through one or more wired and/or wireless connections.

Any elements discussed with respect to other components and/or elements of system100(and/or others) may also apply to similar and/or different elements of other components and/or elements of system100and/or others. For example, discussion about the relationship between first unit110and second unit105, can also apply to the relationship between first unit110and third unit120, second unit105and third unit120, and/or others.

The elements and/or components described as relating to one or more units and/or other structures may apply equally to other components and/or elements. For example, discussion relating to linking module137may apply equally to linking module145and/or linking module159.

In addition, interactions between different elements, components, and/or units (e.g., such as communication relating to one or more protected signals) may apply equally to other components and/or elements. For example, discussion related to functions relating to authentication and/or encryption of communications relating to first unit110and/or second unit105may apply equally to functions relating to authentication and/or encryption of communications relating to third unit120and/or second unit105, among others.

In some embodiments, first unit110may include an actuator module131. This actuator module131may include one or more buttons, switches, knobs, toggles, levers, regulators, actuators, and/or other devices for being actuated. In some embodiments, actuator module131may activate first unit110, second unit105, network115, third unit120, and/or database125. In some embodiments, actuator module131may be actuated by a user electronically, automatically, and/or physically, including being actuated by the user's hand. In some embodiments, this actuator module131may be actuated based at least in part on one or more inputs, such as a system100input, that may send a signal from the actuator module131to another module of first unit110and/or another component and/or element of a system.

In some embodiments, first unit110may include communication module133. This communication module133may facilitate communication between first unit110and other components of system100, including but not limited to second unit105, network115, third unit120, and/or database125. In some embodiments, communication module133may facilitate communication between first unit110and other elements of system100, such as actuator module131, communication module133, memory135, linking module137, user feedback module138, and/or protected signal module139, among others. In some embodiments, communication module133may facilitate communication via one or more connections (e.g., connection160). In some embodiments, communication module133may facilitate communication via one or more wired and/or wireless connections.

In some embodiments, communication module133may generate a notification and/or a transmission in response to receiving one or more signals from one or more other modules, including but not limited to actuator module131, memory135, linking module137, protected signal module139, user feedback module138, and/or other components or elements of a system (e.g., system100). This notification and/or transmission may be sent to one or more components and/or elements of system100.

In some embodiments, first unit110may communicate through communication module133(or not, but instead directly) with second unit105, third unit120, database125, and/or other components and/or elements via a communication path that includes a combination and/or one or more designated connections (e.g., connection160) and/or network115.

In some embodiments, network115may include cloud networks, local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), virtual private networks (VPN), wireless networks (using 802.11, for example), cellular networks (using 3G and/or LTE, for example), and/or other networks. In some embodiments, the network115may include the internet.

In some embodiments, first unit110may include memory135. In some embodiments, memory135may include computer executable instructions that can be executed by one or more processors. These one or more processors may be present in an element of first unit110(e.g., communication module, linking module, and/or protected signal module, among others) and/or one or more other components of system100(e.g., second unit105and/or third unit120).

In some embodiments, memory135may include computer executable instructions that may cause first unit110to interact with one or more components of system100, such as second unit105and/or third unit120. In some embodiments, memory135may contain, among other code, the Basic Input-Output system (BIOS) which controls basic hardware operation such as the interaction with peripheral components or devices.

In some embodiments, first unit110may include a linking module137. This linking module may act—independently and/or with other components and/or elements—to link first unit110with one or more other units. This linking module may (with protected signal module139) facilitate secure communications between first unit110and second unit105. This linking module may facilitate establishing a short wave wireless communication connection, such as Bluetooth, using one or more parameters, including but not limited to one or more MAC addresses, keys, signal frequencies, and/or other parameters. In some embodiments, linking module137may facilitate communication one or more components (e.g., first unit110and second unit105) based at least in part on one or more exchanges of information passed at least from one unit to another unit and/or between both units. For example, first unit110and second unit105may communicate regarding one or more keys—such as link keys—that each may store and that are common to both.

In some embodiments, user feedback module138may facilitate providing feedback about one or more system100components and/or elements. For example, user feedback module138may provide feedback related to first unit110, second unit105, third unit120, and/or database125. In some embodiments, user feedback module138may provide feedback related to connection160. In some embodiments, this feedback may include visual, audible, tactile, and/or other types of feedback, or some combination of two or more feedback types. In some embodiments, this feedback may be related to one or more actuators (e.g., buttons) and/or light emitting diodes (LEDs).

In some embodiments, first unit110may include protected signal module139. In some embodiments, protected signal module may include one or more processors to perform one or more functions. In some embodiments, the protected signal module139may generate one or more signals. Or, the protected signal module139may transmit one or more signals originated from other sources—including but not limited to other components of system100.

In some embodiments, protected signal module139may be able to generate a signal having one or more characteristics. These characteristics may include creating one or more packets present in a signal. These one or more packets may include secure data including, but not limited to, encryption information such as a key, authorization information such as a secret, and/or other information.

In some embodiments, protected signal module139may be able to communicate with other components of system100directly, through communication module133, by one or more connections (e.g., connection160), and/or by other communication methods.

In some embodiments, protected signal module139may transmit one or more packets of information that have been encrypted. In some embodiments, communication module133may transmit one or more packets of information, that have been encrypted, by one or more modules of first unit110. These encrypted packets may have been encrypted by first unit110, second unit105, and/or some other component and/or element—present in system100and/or another system. In some embodiments, these encrypted packets may include a status byte and/or one or more hash bytes. In some embodiments, the one or more hash bytes may each include a 24 bit hash.

In some embodiments, the one or more packets may include a counter, which may correspond to a number of events. The number of events may include the number of times one or more packets have been sent, the actuator module131has been activated, and/or other events.

In some embodiments, one or more components of system100(e.g. second unit105) includes an encryption algorithm designed to obscure data and/or a hash algorithm to require authentication of data. In some embodiments, the encryption may include a rabbit encryption, symmetric cryptograph, asymmetric cryptography, and/or other types. In some embodiments, the authentication hash is a 24 bit hash.

In some embodiments, when actuator module131is actuated, (e.g., a button is pressed) data packets—encrypted and/or requiring authentication—are transmitted by the first unit110. In some embodiments, the second unit105receives the data packets transmitted by the first unit110and then decrypts the encrypted data in the data packets, if applicable. In some embodiments, the encryption may include a key (e.g., a 128 bit key). In some embodiments, protected signal module147may perform one or more operations disclosed with respect to the second unit105. In some embodiments, a protected signal comprises one or more data packets. In some embodiments, the key and/or the secret may be stored in the code section of first unit110, second unit105, and/or others.

In some embodiments, the second unit105receives the data packets transmitted by first unit110and then hashes/authenticates the data. In some embodiments, the hash may include a secret (e.g., a 72 bit secret). Based at least in part on the hashing/authenticating of the data, the second unit105may transmit one or more data packets to third unit120.

In some embodiments, first unit110may generate a key used for encryption and/or a secret used for authentication. The key and/or the secret may be generated based on user input, based on system-detected parameters, based on system events, and/or automatically.

In some embodiments, the key and/or the secret may be generated based on input received by the actuator module131. The input received by the actuator module131may include a number of times an actuator (e.g., a button) is actuated. Or the input received by the actuator module131may include whether a combination of one or more actuators are actuated. In some embodiments, the input received by the actuator module131may include whether one or more actuators are actuated for a time interval (e.g., 5, 10, 15, 20, or 30 seconds).

In some embodiments, the input required to generate a key and/or a secret may be sufficient to prevent errant, meaningless generations. For example, the time interval required may be sufficiently long to avoid a user's errant input (e.g., 15 seconds or more). As another example, the input required may include one or more types of input—including but not limited to an input that a combination of one or more actuators are actuated over a certain time interval (e.g., buttons1and3are activated simultaneously for 15 seconds or more).

In some embodiments, the key and/or the secret may each be random, pseudo-random, non-random, non-pseudo random, and/or some combination. In some embodiments, the key is generated using a very low oscillator (vlo) and a random jump number that may be incremented by a predetermined value at a specified event (e.g., actuating actuator module131). In some embodiments, the secret is generated using a very low oscillator (vlo) and a random jump number that may be incremented by a predetermined value at a specified event (e.g., actuating actuator module131).

In some embodiments, the first unit110may transmit a key and/or a secret. In some embodiments, transmitting a key and/or a secret from the first unit110to another component of system100may occur after a certain time interval. For example, first unit110may generate a key and/or a secret during a 15 second interval and then first unit110may transmit the key and/or the secret after the 15 completion of the 15 second interval.

In some embodiments, the first unit110may transmit the key and/or the secret during the same time interval when each is generated. For example, first unit110may generate a key and/or a secret during a 15 second interval and transmit the key and/or the secret during the same 15 second interval.

In some embodiments, the second unit105may receive the key and/or the secret. Based at least in part on receiving the key and/or the secret, the second unit105may store, transmit, map, and/or capture, identifying information related to the first unit110and/or the third unit120that transmitted the key and/or the secret. In some embodiments, this identifying information may include the key serial number of the sending unit.

In some embodiments, the communication of information, including one or more data packets between one or more system components (e.g., first unit110and second unit105, second unit105and third unit120, etc.) may include encryption having a key and/or authentication having a secret.

In some embodiments, the second unit105may perform certain actions related to data packets, including but not limited to those data packets received by the second unit from another component of a system. In some embodiments, performing certain actions may be based at least in part on whether: the key and/or the secret have been transmitted to the second unit105; the identifying information has been transmitted and/or received by first unit110, second unit105, and/or third unit120. In some embodiments, these certain actions may include decrypting one or more encrypted data packets, authenticating one or more data packets requiring authentication, and/or other related actions.

In some embodiments, the key and the secret may be transmitted by and/or to one or more devices. In some embodiments, the key and the secret may be transmitted simultaneously, in parallel, in series, and/or otherwise. For example, second unit105may transmit the secret to the third unit120and then transmit the key to the third unit120. In other embodiments second unit105may transmit the key to the first unit110and/or third unit120and then transmit the secret to the first unit110and/or third unit120.

In some embodiments, the communication link between first unit110and second unit105(and/or second unit105and third unit120, among others) may be a secure communication link using a protected signal. This secure communication link may require authentication, encryption, and/or both. The communications between first unit110and second unit105(and/or second unit105and third unit120, among others) may include multiple secure communications between them and/or other devices. These secure communications—transmitted and/or received via secure communication links—may be performed using one communication link to perform all the required functions or multiple communication links.

In some embodiments, first unit110and second unit105may both use authentication. In some embodiments, the authentication may use one or more public-private authentication key pairs. Where multiple authentication key pairs are created and/or used at least some of the authentication key pairs may pertain to the first unit110and/or at least some of the authentication key pairs may pertain to the second unit105.

In some embodiments, at least a portion of the device-specific authentication key pairs are known only to one entity, and not others. For example, a first authentication key pair specific to first unit110may not be known to second unit105. As another example, a private part of the first key pair specific to first unit110may not be known to second unit105, but a public part of the first key pair specific to first unit110may be known to second unit105.

In some embodiments, a public part of first unit110's authentication key pair would be communicated to the second unit105, while the private part of the first unit110authentication key pair would not be communicated to the second unit105.

In some embodiments, a dual authentication may occur, which may include authenticating the first unit110and authenticating the second unit105. In some embodiments, authentication may require multiple pieces of information to be verified. For example, the first unit110may authenticate a communications link by verifying a person or an entity associated with the second unit105and/or verifying a server or a device (which may or may not be related to the second unit—such as a server). In some embodiments, this authentication may include using a username and/or a password. In some embodiments, this authentication may include using a secret and/or an API key. In some embodiments, this authentication may include using an authentication key pair—which may include generating a key pair specifically related to each entity and/or device. In some embodiments, this authentication may include a client certified authenticated secure sockets layer (SSL) connection.

In other embodiments, the secure communications between two devices (e.g., second unit105and third unit120) may be performed based on multiple secure connections—including multiple secure connections running in series and/or in parallel. In some embodiments, at least some of the multiple secure connections may require authentication. In other embodiments, every secure connection may require authentication.

In some embodiments, communication module133may facilitate secured communication at least in part based on communication with protected signal module139. Protected signal module139may independently perform all actions relating to authentication and/or encryption relating to the systems and/or methods described in this disclosure. Or, in some cases, protected signal module139may perform actions relating to authentication and/or encryption relating to the systems and/or methods described in this disclosure in conjunction with one or more other components and/or elements of other systems.

In some embodiments, protected signal module139may generate confidential information. In some embodiments, protected signal module139may generate one or more authentication keys (also discussed as secrets). In some embodiments, an authentication key may include multiple parts, including a private key and/or a public key.

In some embodiments, protected signal module139may receive confidential information from another device and/or source. In some embodiments, protected signal module139may receive one or more authentication keys from another device.

In some embodiments, one or more devices illustrated in system100may communicate with and/or link to database125. Database125may include stored content163and/or user related content165. In some embodiments, stored content163may include data generated, received, transmitted, linked, stored, and/or compared by at least one of first unit110, second unit105, third unit120, and/or network115, among others. In some embodiments, information related to data packets, that may be encrypted and/or require authentication, may be included as stored content163. In some embodiments, first unit110, second unit105, and/or third unit120may access stored content163in database125over network115.

In some embodiments, database125may be internal or external to one or more components of system100(i.e., connected to a device through network115and/or connected directly to one or more devices of system100). For example, at least a portion of database125may be internal and/or external to first unit110, second unit105, and/or third unit120. In some embodiments, user related content165may include, but is not limited to, user preferences, passwords, personal information, system information (e.g., model numbers, installation dates, etc.), content specification other components of system100including first unit110, second unit105, and/or third unit120, and/or network115, information designated by the user and/or an administrator as related to the system, and/or other information.

In some embodiments, first unit110and second unit105may communicate via a Bluetooth connection using pairing information, while third unit120and second unit105may communicate via one or more connection that does not use pairing information and/or may be a non-Bluetooth connection. In some embodiments, first unit110and second unit105may communicate via a Bluetooth connection using pairing information, while third unit120and second unit105may communicate via one or more connections that uses cloned information at least related to the pairing information used by first unit110and second unit105. In some embodiments, communication between second unit105and third unit120may include a connection based at least in part on radio frequency, electromagnetics, local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), virtual private network (VPN), wireless network (using 802.11, for example), 345 MHz, Z Wave, cellular network (using 3G and/or LTE, for example), and/or other signals. In some embodiments, first unit110and second unit105may communicate via one or more connections, which may include a Bluetooth connection. In some embodiments, third unit120and second unit105may communicate via one or more connections, which may include a Bluetooth connection.

All the actions, specifications, and communications described with respect to the modules of first unit110and/or second unit105, may apply equally with communications between first unit110and/or third unit120, second unit105and/or third unit120, and/or other communications. This may include utilizing protected signal modules147and/or161, communication modules141and/or155, linking modules145and/or159, and/or others.

In some embodiments, any transmitting and/or communication may be performed via network115. In some embodiments, network115may include a wired network, while in other embodiments network115may include a wireless network. In some embodiments, of system100(and others) network115may include wired/and or wireless connections. In some embodiments, components such as first unit110, second unit105, and/or third unit120may be connected in multiple ways, including having one or more wired and/or one or more wireless connections.

In some embodiments, comparison module149may compare one or more pieces of information, including but not limited to information transmitted from and/or received by the first unit110, second unit105, third unit120, and/or other components. In some embodiments, comparison module149may compare one or more portions of a key serial number, a key, a secret, an encrypted data packet, a data packet requiring authentication, a counter, a distance, an iteration value, and/or other information. In some embodiments, comparison module149may compare information related to or stored in second unit105with information related to or stored in first unit110. In some embodiments, comparison module149may compare information related to or stored in second unit105with information related to or stored in third unit120and/or first unit110. In some embodiments, comparison module149may compare information related to or stored in second unit105with information related to or stored in database125.

In some embodiments, components of system100may have one or more pieces of identifying information associated with them. This identifying information may include, but is not limited to, a key serial number, a unit number, a model name, a model number, a software or a hardware version, and/or other related information.

FIG. 2illustrates an example of a communications system200in accordance with various aspects of the disclosure. The system200may include first unit210, second unit205, third unit220, fourth unit230, fifth unit240, network115, and/or other components. In some embodiments, units may communicate with each using similar, different, exactly the same, and/or other variations of different signals.

For example, in some embodiments, first unit210and second unit205may communicate using one type of signal (e.g., Bluetooth), while second unit205and fifth unit240may communicate using another type of signal (e.g., Z Wave). In some embodiments, communication between second unit205and other units (220,230, and/or240) may include using a signal that requires authentication and/or decryption. In some embodiments, communication between second unit205and other units (220,230, and/or240) may be based at least in part on cloned information from one or more other connections and/or signals (such as communication between first unit210and second unit205).

In some embodiments, connections160,170, and/or190may include one or more of a wired connection, a wireless connection, and/or both. In some embodiments, connections160,170, and/or190may facilitate communication, transmission, encryption, authentication, and/or changing certain signal characteristics, among other things.

In some embodiments, first unit210and second unit205include short range wireless communication protocol devices. In some embodiments, first unit210and second unit205communicate based on linking information250. This linking information may include link key information252, MAC address information254, technical information256, and/or other information258.

The link key information252may include information related to one or more link keys that may be used to establish short range wireless communications. This link key information252may facilitate device communication as a way to link multiple devices. For example, with Bluetooth communication the signal frequencies may change over a period of time and the link key information252may facilitate communication between devices that know and/or have stored the link key—despite the shifting signal frequencies. In addition, MAC address information254may include information related to one or more MAC addresses of first unit210, second unit205, and/or other units in a system. In some embodiments, this MAC information may be used in conjunction with other information—such as link key information252—(or alternatively solely by itself) to facilitate communication between multiple devices.

In some embodiments, second unit205, third unit220, fourth unit230, and/or fifth unit240may include short range wireless communication protocol devices, where at least some of these devices may have different characteristics and/or communicate in different ways from communications with other units (e.g., first unit210). For example, second unit205and fourth unit230may communicate via a 345 MHz connection that may or may not be authenticated, while second unit205may communicate with another unit via a Bluetooth and/or a Z Wave connection.

In some embodiments, second unit205, third unit220, fourth unit230, and/or fifth unit240may communicate based on linking information260. This linking information may include link key information252, MAC address information254, technical information256, and/or other information258.

Linking information260may be the same as, different, similar, and/or related to linking information250, discussed here. For example, linking information260may include link key information that is the same as, different, similar, and/or related to link key information252. In some embodiments, link key information260may be cloned link key information from one or more signals related to first unit210and second unit205.

As another example, MAC address information254may be communicated from second unit205to third unit220, fourth unit230, and/or fifth unit240, among others. This information may be used to facilitate communication between second unit205and other units and/or between first unit210and/or other units. In some embodiments, MAC address information254may be communicated by second unit205to third unit220. This MAC address information254may include actual255MAC address information and/or cloned257MAC address information. For example, second unit205may communicate the actual MAC address of first unit210and/or other units, and second unit205may also communicate cloned MAC address information of second unit205and/or other units. In some embodiments, the MAC address information254may include actual MAC address information, cloned MAC address information, and/or some combination.

In some embodiments, third unit220may receive the actual MAC address of first unit210and/or the cloned MAC address of second unit205. At least in part based on receiving the cloned MAC address of second unit205, other units (e.g., third unit220, fourth unit230, etc.) may be able to communicate directly with first unit210via one or more connections160,170,190, network115, and/or some combination. In some embodiments, third unit220may receive the cloned MAC address of first unit210and/or the actual MAC address of second unit205.

FIG. 3illustrates an example of a communications system300in accordance with various aspects of the disclosure. The system300may be related to a structure355that may include first unit310, second unit305, third unit315, fourth unit320, fifth unit325, network115, sensor unit330, entry point unit340, sensors related to openings335and/or345, motion unit350, first outside unit360, and/or second outside unit365, and/or other components. In some embodiments, each of A-H may be a distance between one or more units, sensors, areas, and/or other elements of a system.

In some embodiments, one or more components of a system (e.g., system300) may include one or more sensors. These sensors may include, but are not limited to: proximity, motion, temperatures, humidity, sound level, smoke, structural features (e.g., glass breaking, window position, door position), time, geo-location data of a user and/or a device, distance, biometrics, weight, speed, height, size, preferences, light, darkness, weather, time, system performance, and/or other inputs that relate to a security and/or an automation system.

In some embodiments, whether other characteristics related to user301and/or first unit310may be determined based on one or more units. For example, a user's position may be determined based on a relative position relating to one or more units (e.g., first outside unit360). For example, if first unit310can communicate with first outside unit360then the user's position may be determined based at least in part on a relative position of first unit310with one or more other units. In some embodiments, this relative position may relate to multiple units, sensors, areas, positions, and/or other characteristics. For example, a user's301position may be determined based at least in part on the location of first unit310related to first outside unit360, second outside unit365, motion unit350, entry point unit340, opening345, and/or second unit305.

In some embodiments, using the present systems and methods allows for communication from the position of user301via first unit310to second unit305. In some embodiments, first unit310may be too far away from second unit305(based on distance A) to reliably communicate. Using the present methods, first unit310may communicate with fifth unit325based on a distance G (that may be shorter than distance A). Then fifth unit325may communicate with second unit305directly and/or may communicate with third unit315based on distance H (and/or may then communicate with second unit305based on distance B). By using the cloned information, first unit310may be able to communicate indirectly with second unit305through and/or based at least partly on other units.

FIG. 4shows exemplary methods400and systems in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, a method incorporating the present systems and methods may include receiving linking information from a first device by a second device, linking the second device with the first device via a first connection, the linking based at least in part on the linking information, storing at least a portion of the linking information, and/or transmitting the stored linking information from the second device to one or more other devices via a second connection—as shown in blocks405,410,415, and420. In some embodiments, any and/or all of these operations may be performed by or at any system components and/or elements.

In some embodiments, at least one of a first connection and a second connection may include a protected signal connection. This protected signal may include having sufficient protection such that others may not discover the units and/or the connection without having at least one of a link key and one or more MAC addresses. For example, in some embodiments, the second connection may include an encrypted signal, a signal requiring authentication, and/or some combination.

FIG. 5shows exemplary methods500and systems in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, a method incorporating the present systems and methods may include receiving linking information from a first device by a second device and transmitting linking information to the first device, linking the second device with the first device via a first connection including linking via a Bluetooth connection, the linking based at least in part on the linking information, storing at least a portion of the linking information, and/or transmitting the stored linking information from the second device to one or more other devices via a second connection—as shown in blocks505,510,515, and520. In some embodiments, any and/or all of these operations may be performed by or at any system components and/or elements.

FIG. 6shows exemplary methods600and systems in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, a method incorporating the present systems and methods may include receiving linking information from a first device by a second device, the linking information including at least one of a link key, a media access control (MAC) address of the first device, and/or a clone of a media access control (MAC) address of the second device, and/or combinations thereof, linking the second device with the first device via a first connection, the linking based at least in part on the linking information, storing at least a portion of the linking information, and/or transmitting the stored linking information from the second device to one or more other devices via a second connection—as shown in blocks605,610,615, and620. In some embodiments, any and/or all of these operations may be performed by or at any system components and/or elements.

FIG. 7shows exemplary methods700and systems in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, a method incorporating the present systems and methods may include receiving linking information from a first device by a second device, linking the second device with the first device via a first connection, the linking based at least in part on the linking information, storing at least a portion of the linking information, establishing a second connection, that includes a secure connection, based at least in part on sending secure data between the second device and the one or more other devices, and/or transmitting the stored linking information from the second device to one or more other devices via the second connection—as shown in blocks705,710,715,720, and/or725. In some embodiments, any and/or all of these operations may be performed by or at any system components and/or elements.

FIG. 8shows exemplary methods800and systems in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, a method incorporating the present systems and methods may include receiving linking information including pairing information from a first device by a second device and transmitting linking information to the first device, linking the second device with the first device via a first connection including linking via a Bluetooth connection, the linking based at least in part on the linking information, storing at least a portion of the linking information, and/or transmitting the stored linking information from the second device to one or more other devices via a second connection, the second connection including a non-Bluetooth connection—as shown in blocks805,810,815, and820. In some embodiments, any and/or all of these operations may be performed by or at any system components and/or elements.

FIG. 9shows exemplary methods900and systems in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, a method incorporating the present systems and methods may include receiving linking information from a first device by a second device, linking the second device with the first device via a first connection, the linking based at least in part on the linking information, storing at least a portion of the linking information, and/or transmitting the stored linking information from the second device to one or more other devices via a second connection that includes a direct connection between the second device and the one or more other devices—as shown in blocks905,910,915, and920. In some embodiments, any and/or all of these operations may be performed by or at any system components and/or elements.

In some examples, aspects from two or more of the methods400-900may be combined and/or separated. It should be noted that methods400,500,600,700,800,900, etc. are just example implementations, and that the operations of the methods400-900may be rearranged or otherwise modified such that other implementations are possible.

FIG. 10shows a system1000for use in signal cloning systems, in accordance with various examples. System1000may include a second unit105-a, which may be an example of the second unit105ofFIG. 1. Second unit105-amay also be an example of one or more aspects of second unit205and/or1205ofFIGS. 2 and 12. In some embodiments, second unit105-amay include a security and/or a home automation system control panel. In some embodiments, the terms a control panel and a control device may be used synonymously.

Second unit105-amay include linking module1045, which may be an example of linking module137,145,159, and/or1215described with reference toFIGS. 1, 2, 12and/or others. Second unit105-amay also include protected signal module1055, which may be an example of protected signal modules139,147, and/or161described with reference toFIGS. 1, 2, and/or others.

Second unit105-amay also include components for bi-directional communications including components for transmitting communications and/or components for receiving communications. For example, second unit105-amay communicate bi-directionally with one or more of device115-a, one or more sensors115-b, remote storage135, and/or remote server140. This bi-directional communication may be direct (e.g., second unit105-acommunicating directly with remote storage135) or indirect (e.g., second unit105-acommunicating indirectly with remote server140through remote storage135).

Linking module1045may facilitate linking and/or communication between one or more components and/or elements of a system, including second unit105-abased at least in part on one or more parameters related to a communication signal and/or connection between a first unit (e.g., first unit110) and a second unit (e.g., second unit105) as described above with reference toFIGS. 1, 2, and/or others. For example, second unit105-amay communicate information to one or more other devices to facilitate communication between the one or more other devices and a first unit (e.g., first unit110) and/or a second unit105-a. In some embodiments, this information may include a key, a MAC address (e.g., of a first device), and/or a clone of a MAC address (e.g., of a second device). By providing at least some of the cloned information, the other devices may be able to communicate with a first device, a second device, and/or between multiple other devices.

The protected signal module1055may facilitate secure linking and/or communication between one or more components and/or elements of a system, including second unit105-abased at least in part on one or more parameters related to a communication signal and/or connection. In some embodiments, protected signal module1055may at least in part help establish a secure communication signal between second unit105-aand one or more other units. For example, if first unit110and second unit105-acommunicate based on a Bluetooth signal, protected signal module1055may at least in part help establish a secure communication signal between second unit105-aand third unit120, among others. In some embodiments, establishing a secure, protected communication signal may include requiring authentication, decryption, and/or other related methods related to short range wireless communications.

Second unit105-amay also include a processor module1005, and memory1010(including software (SW))1015, an input/output controller module1020, a user interface module1025, a transceiver module1030, and one or more antennas1035each of which may communicate—directly or indirectly—with one another (e.g., via one or more buses1040). The transceiver module1030may communicate bi-directionally—via the one or more antennas1035, wired links, and/or wireless links—with one or more networks or remote devices as described above. For example, the transceiver module1030may communicate bi-directionally with one or more of device115-a, remote storage135, and/or remote server140.

The transceiver module1030may include a modem to modulate the packets and provide the modulated packets to the one or more antennas1035for transmission, and to demodulate packets received from the one or more antenna1035. In some embodiments, while a control panel or a control device (e.g., second unit105-a) may include a single antenna1035, the control panel or the control device may also have multiple antennas1035capable of concurrently transmitting or receiving multiple wired and/or wireless transmissions. In some embodiments, one element of second unit105-a(e.g., one or more antennas1035, transceiver module1030, etc.) may provide a direct connection to a remote server140via a direct network link to the Internet via a POP (point of presence). In some embodiments, one element of second unit105-a(e.g., one or more antennas1035, transceiver module1030, etc.) may provide a connection using wireless techniques, including digital cellular telephone connection, Cellular Digital Packet Data (CDPD) connection, digital satellite data connection, and/or another connection.

The signals associated with system1000may include wireless communication signals such as radio frequency, electromagnetics, local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), virtual private network (VPN), wireless network (using 802.11, for example), 345 MHz, Z Wave, cellular network (using 3G and/or LTE, for example), and/or other signals. The one or more antennas1035and/or transceiver module1030may include or be related to, but are not limited to, WWAN (GSM, CDMA, and WCDMA), WLAN (including Bluetooth and Wi-Fi), WMAN (WiMAX), antennas for mobile communications, antennas for Wireless Personal Area Network (WPAN) applications (including RFID and UWB). In some embodiments, each antenna1035may receive signals or information specific and/or exclusive to itself. In other embodiments each antenna1035may receive signals or information not specific nor exclusive to itself.

In some embodiments, one or more sensors115-b(e.g., motion, proximity sensor, smoke, glass break, door, window, carbon monoxide, and/or another sensor) may connect to some element of system1000via a network using one or more wired and/or wireless connections.

In some embodiments, the user interface module1025may include an audio device, such as an external speaker system, an external display device such as a display screen, and/or an input device (e.g., remote control device interfaced with the user interface module1025directly and/or through I/O controller module1020).

One or more buses1040may facilitate data communication between one or more elements of second unit105-a(e.g., processor module1005, memory1010, I/O controller module1020, user interface module1025, etc.).

Memory1010may include random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), flash RAM, and/or other types. Memory1010may store computer-readable, computer-executable software/firmware code1015including instructions that, when executed, cause the processor module1005to perform various functions described in this disclosure (e.g., receiving linking information, linking one or more units, storing information such as the linking information, transmitting stored information, etc.). Alternatively, the software/firmware code1015may not be directly executable by the processor module1005but may cause a computer (e.g., when compiled and executed) to perform functions described herein.

In some embodiments, processor module1005may include, among other things, an intelligent hardware device (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a microcontroller, and/or an ASIC, etc.). Memory1010can contain, among other things, the Basic Input-Output system (BIOS) which may control basic hardware and/or software operation such as the interaction with peripheral components or devices. For example, linking module1045and/or protected signal module1055to implement the present systems and methods may be stored within system memory1010. Applications resident with system1000are generally stored on and accessed via a non-transitory computer readable medium, such as a hard disk drive and/or other storage medium. Additionally, applications can be in the form of electronic signals modulated in accordance with the application and data communication technology when accessed via a network interface (e.g., transceiver module1030, one or more antennas1035, etc.).

Many other devices and/or subsystems may be connected to one or may be included as one or more elements of system1000(e.g., entertainment system, computing device, remote cameras, wireless key fob, wall mounted user interface device, cell radio module, battery, alarm siren, door lock, lighting system, thermostat, home appliance monitor, utility equipment monitor, and so on). In some embodiments, all of the elements shown inFIG. 10need not be present to practice the present systems and methods. The devices and subsystems can be interconnected in different ways from that shown inFIG. 10. In some embodiments, an aspect of some operation of a system, such as that shown inFIG. 10, may be readily known in the art and are not discussed in detail in this application. Code to implement the present disclosure can be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium such as one or more of system memory1010or other memory. The operating system provided on I/O controller module1020may be iOS®, ANDROID®, MS-dOS®, MS-WINDOWS®, OS/2®, UNIX®, LINUX®, or another known operating system.

The transceiver module1030may include a modem configured to modulate the packets and provide the modulated packets to the antennas1035for transmission and/or to demodulate packets received from the antennas1035. While the devices115-amay include a single antenna1035, the devices115-amay have multiple antennas1035capable of concurrently transmitting and/or receiving multiple wireless transmissions.

FIG. 11illustrates an example of a communications system1100in accordance with various aspects of the disclosure. The communications system1100may include second devices1105, devices1115, and/or a network1130.

The network1130may provide user authentication, encryption, access authorization, tracking, Internet Protocol (IP) connectivity, and other access, calculation, modification, and/or functions. The second devices1105may interface with the network1130through wired and/or wireless communication links1132and may perform communication configuration, adjustment, and/or scheduling for communication with the devices1115, or may operate under the control of a controller. In various examples, the second devices1105may communicate—either directly or indirectly (e.g., through network1130)—with each other over wired and/or wireless communication links1134. Second devices1105may communicate with a back end server—directly and/or indirectly—using one or more communication links.

The second devices1105may wirelessly communicate with the devices1115via one or more antennas. Each of the second devices1105may provide communication coverage for a respective geographic coverage area1110. In some examples, second devices1105may be referred to as a control device, a base transceiver station, a radio base station, an access point, a radio transceiver, and/or some other suitable terminology. The geographic coverage area1110for a second devices1105may be divided into sectors making up only a portion of the coverage area. The communications system1100may include second devices1105of different types. There may be overlapping geographic coverage areas1110for one or more different parameters, including different technologies, features, subscriber preferences, hardware, software, technology, and/or methods. For example, each second device1105may be related to one or more discrete structures (e.g., a home, a business) and each of the one more discrete structures may be related to one or more discrete areas. In other examples, multiple second devices1105may be related to the same one or more discrete structures (e.g., multiple control panels relating to a home and/or a business complex).

The devices1115are dispersed throughout the communications system1100and each device1115may be stationary and/or mobile. A device1115may include a cellular phone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a wireless modem, a wireless communication device, a handheld device, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, a cordless phone, a wireless local loop (WLL) station, a display device (e.g., TVs, computer monitors, etc.), a printer, a sensor, and/or the like.

A device1115may also include or be referred to by those skilled in the art as a user device, a sensor, a smartphone, a Bluetooth device, a Wi-Fi device, a mobile station, a subscriber station, a mobile unit, a subscriber unit, a wireless unit, a remote unit, a mobile device, a wireless device, a wireless communications device, a remote device, an access terminal, a mobile terminal, a wireless terminal, a remote terminal, a handset, a user agent, a mobile client, a client, and/or some other suitable terminology.

A device1115may include and/or be one or more sensors that sense: proximity, motion, temperatures, humidity, sound level, smoke, structural features (e.g., glass breaking, window position, door position), time, geo-location data of a user and/or a device, distance, biometrics, weight, speed, height, size, preferences, light, darkness, weather, time, system performance, and/or other inputs that relate to a security and/or an automation system. A device115may be able to communicate through one or more wired and/or wireless connections with various components such as control panels, base stations, and/or network equipment (e.g., servers, wireless communication points, etc.) and/or the like.

The communication links1125shown in communications system1100may include uplink (UL) transmissions from a device1115to a second device1105, and/or downlink (DL) transmissions, from a second devices1105to a device1115. The downlink transmissions may also be called forward link transmissions while the uplink transmissions may also be called reverse link transmissions. Each communication link1125may include one or more carriers, where each carrier may be a signal made up of multiple sub-carriers (e.g., waveform signals of different frequencies) modulated according to the various radio technologies. Each modulated signal may be sent on a different sub-carrier and may carry control information (e.g., reference signals, control channels, etc.), overhead information, user data, etc. The communication links1125may transmit bidirectional communications and/or unidirectional communications. Communication links1125may include one or more connections, including but not limited to, 345 MHz, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular, Z Wave, 802.11, peer-to-peer, LAN, WLAN, Ethernet, fire wire, fiber optic, and/or other connection types related to security and/or automation systems.

In some embodiments of communications system1100, second devices1105and/or devices1115may include one or more antennas for employing antenna diversity schemes to improve communication quality and reliability between second devices1105and devices1115. Additionally or alternatively, second devices1105and/or devices1115may employ multiple-input, multiple-output (MIMO) techniques that may take advantage of multi-path, mesh-type environments to transmit multiple spatial layers carrying the same or different coded data.

While the devices1115may communicate with each other through the second devices1105using communication links1125, each device1115may also communicate directly with one or more other devices via one or more direct communication links1134. Two or more devices1115may communicate via a direct communication link1134when both devices1115are in the geographic coverage area1110or when one or neither devices1115is within the geographic coverage area1110. Examples of direct communication links1134may include Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth, wired, and/or, and other P2P group connections. The devices1115in these examples may communicate according to the WLAN radio and baseband protocol including physical and MAC layers from IEEE 802.11, and its various versions including, but not limited to, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11a, 802.11n, 802.11ac, 802.11ad, 802.11ah, etc. In other implementations, other peer-to-peer connections and/or ad hoc networks may be implemented within communications system1100.

FIG. 12shows a block diagram1200of a second device1205for use in electronic communication, in accordance with various aspects of this disclosure. The second device1205may be an example of one or more aspects of a second unit105described with reference toFIGS. 1, 2, 10, and/or others. The second device1205may include a receiver module1210, a linking module1215, and/or a transmitter module1220. The second device1205may also be or include a processor. Each of these modules may be in communication with each other—directly and/or indirectly.

The receiver module1210may receive information such as packets, user data, and/or control information associated with various information channels (e.g., control channels, data channels, etc.). The receiver module1210may be configured to receive information relating to one or more signals, connections, and/or communications relating to one or more devices, among other things. Information may be passed on to the linking module1215, and/or to other components of the second device1205.

The various illustrative blocks and components described in connection with this disclosure may be implemented or performed with a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an ASIC, an FPGA or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but in the alternative, the processor may be any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, and/or state machine. A processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, and/or any other such configuration.

In addition, any disclosure of components contained within other components or separate from other components should be considered exemplary because multiple other architectures may potentially be implemented to achieve the same functionality, including incorporating all, most, and/or some elements as part of one or more unitary structures and/or separate structures.

This disclosure may specifically apply to security system applications. This disclosure may specifically apply to automation system applications. In some embodiments, the concepts, the technical descriptions, the features, the methods, the ideas, and/or the descriptions may specifically apply to security and/or automation system applications. Distinct advantages of such systems for these specific applications are apparent from this disclosure.

The process parameters, actions, and steps described and/or illustrated in this disclosure are given by way of example only and can be varied as desired. For example, while the steps illustrated and/or described may be shown or discussed in a particular order, these steps do not necessarily need to be performed in the order illustrated or discussed. The various exemplary methods described and/or illustrated here may also omit one or more of the steps described or illustrated here or include additional steps in addition to those disclosed.

Furthermore, while various embodiments have been described and/or illustrated here in the context of fully functional computing systems, one or more of these exemplary embodiments may be distributed as a program product in a variety of forms, regardless of the particular type of computer-readable media used to actually carry out the distribution. The embodiments disclosed herein may also be implemented using software modules that perform certain tasks. These software modules may include script, batch, or other executable files that may be stored on a computer-readable storage medium or in a computing system. In some embodiments, these software modules may permit and/or instruct a computing system to perform one or more of the exemplary embodiments disclosed here.

This description, for purposes of explanation, has been described with reference to specific embodiments. The illustrative discussions above, however, are not intended to be exhaustive or limit the present systems and methods to the precise forms discussed. Many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to explain the principles of the present systems and methods and their practical applications, to enable others skilled in the art to utilize the present systems, apparatus, and methods and various embodiments with various modifications as may be suited to the particular use contemplated.