Patent Description:
Modem electronic monitoring systems for the home typically include imaging devices having one or more cameras having video and audio communication technology. Such imaging devices may comprise, for example, standalone smart cameras or doorbells having such cameras. Each imaging device can have one or more sensors, such as a motion sensor, directed at an activity zone to be monitored such that motion, or another monitored activity in the activity zone, triggers image capture and transmission by the imaging device's camera. The electronic monitoring system may also have additional monitoring devices that perform monitoring functions without capturing an image, such as standalone motion sensors, smoke detectors, etc. The electronic monitoring system further includes a hub or base station to communicate with the monitoring devices and with an external server, such as a cloud-based server. In addition, the hub or base station may also communicate with one or more user devices such as a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a smartphone, or a tablet.

<CIT> discloses a scanner of a handheld electronic device used to capture a registration identifier and connection information is determined by scanning the registration barcode. In some cases, the connection information may be stored in a memory of the handheld electronic device and may be used to establish a Wi-Fi connection with a wireless access point. In some cases, the registration barcode may be translated into multiple screen frames that may be presented in a screen frame sequence via a user interface displayed via a display of an electronic device that is different from the handheld electronic device. The scanner may directly capture the individual frames in the sequence via the display of the other electronic device.

<CIT> discloses systems and methods to provide a notification of a connectivity problem of a video doorbell to a smartphone. A first communication link between the video doorbell and a backend server is determined unavailable, such as when a password used by the video doorbell to access a local area network is not accepted by the LAN. A second communication link between the video doorbell and the smartphone via the Bluetooth transceiver is established and a message is sent to the smartphone, via the Bluetooth transceiver, indicating that the password used by the video doorbell to access the LAN is not accepted by the LAN. The message causes an application running on the smartphone to display a notification on a display of the smartphone indicating the communication problem.

In order to on-board or integrate the monitoring device into an electronic monitoring system, the one or more user devices may be used. For example, a user may log into an account on a predetermined website or open an application on a mobile user device and log into the account. Once logged into the account, a user may choose to add a monitoring device to the electronic monitoring system and select the specific type of monitoring device to be added, such as a camera, a doorbell, or a smoke detector. Thereafter, a user selects the type of connection, e.g., wireless network, through which the monitoring device is to be connected to the electronic monitoring system. The selected monitoring device is powered up, and the user device displays one or more access points or service set identifiers (SSIDs) for various available WIFI signals generated by a gateway router of the electronic monitoring system. The user selects a desired one of the one or more SSIDs displayed on the user device and inputs the WIFI credential associated with the selected SSID. In response, the user device generates a Quick Response (QR) code associated with SSID selected by the user, which includes data corresponding to the selected SSID and its associated WIFI credential. With the QR code displayed by the user device, a user engages a synchronization actuator on the monitoring device, thereby causing the camera of the monitoring device to scan the QR code. Using the data corresponding to the selected SSID and its associated WIFI credential, the monitoring device connects to an access point for the wireless network of the electronic monitoring system in a conventional manner.

While functional for their intended purpose, prior methods to on-board or integrate a monitoring device into an electronic monitoring system have certain limitations. By way of example, utilizing these prior methods, a user can only provide data for a single SSID and its associated WIFI credential to the monitoring device. In such circumstances, if the wireless network goes down, the monitoring device will no longer be able to communicate on the wireless network. Further, if the SSID used by the monitoring device to connect to the wireless network is not the best candidate for the monitoring device to perform the on-boarding process (for example, due to the distance between the monitoring device and the SSID and/or interference), the monitoring device may not be able to connect to the wireless network.

Further, in prior methods, a monitoring device would connect to the wireless network via a single SSID and its associated WIFI credential. As such, if a user would like to connect to the wireless network via a different SSID and its associated WIFI credential, the user must repeat the on-boarding process heretofore described and select a different SSID when prompted by the user device. It can be appreciated that, at best, repeating the on-boarding process is a nuisance. At worst, a serious problem may result if the monitoring device is unable to connect to the wireless network.

In view of the foregoing, a method is needed for on-boarding/integrating a monitoring device into an electronic monitoring system in which the monitoring device may simply and easily receive and store a plurality of SSIDs and WIFI credentials for connection to a wireless network.

Also needed is a method for on-boarding/integrating a monitoring device into an electronic monitoring system wherein the monitoring device is connectable to a wireless network via one of a plurality of SSIDs and WIFI credentials.

There is also a need for a method for on-boarding/integrating a monitoring device into an electronic monitoring system wherein a plurality of SSIDs and WIFI credentials may be simply and easily transferred to the monitoring device via a single QR code.

In accordance with an aspect the present invention, one or more of these needs is met by providing a method for on-boarding/integrating a monitoring device into an electronic monitoring system. A plurality of access points to a wireless network are displayed. Each of the plurality of access points has a corresponding credential associated therewith. Some or all of the plurality of access points are selected. A computer-readable code, including information for the selected access points and associated credentials, is generated. Thereafter, the computer-readable code is read with the monitoring device.

The method may include storing the information for the selected access points and associated credentials in computer-readable memory on the monitoring device. The selected access point having the greatest signal strength is the identified. Thereafter, the monitoring device is connected to the wireless network via the identified access point using the credential associated with the identified access point.

In the event of failure of the connection between the monitoring device and the wireless network via the identified access point, a second of the selected multiple access points is identified, and the monitoring device is connected to the wireless network via the identified second access point using the credential associated with the identified second access point.

The monitoring device may include an imaging device including a camera. The camera is configured to scan the computer-readable code, e.g., a QR code. The plurality of access points can be displayed on a user device, and the user device can display the computer-readable code to be read by the monitoring device.

A series of access points may be sequentially selected from the plurality of access points.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for on-boarding/integrating a monitoring device into an electronic monitoring system. The method includes displaying a list of a plurality of access points to a wireless network on a display associated with a user device. Each of the plurality of access points has a corresponding credential associated therewith. A series of access points is sequentially selected from the plurality of access points. A computer-readable code including data corresponding to the selected access points and associated credentials is displayed on the display associated with the user device. The computer-readable code is scanned with the monitoring device, and the data for the selected access points and associated credentials is stored in computer-readable memory on the monitoring device. The access point of the selected access points having the greatest signal strength is identified as an initial access point. The monitoring device is connected to the wireless network via the initial access point and the credential associated therewith.

In the event of failure of the connection between the monitoring device and the wireless network via the initial access point, a second access point of the selected access points having the greatest signal strength besides the initial access point is identified. Thereafter, the monitoring device is connected to the wireless network via the second access point and the credential associated therewith.

The monitoring device may include a camera configured to scan a computer-readable code, e.g., a QR code.

In accordance with still another aspect of the invention, a wireless network is provided that includes a monitoring device such as smart camera, a base station in wireless communication with the monitoring device and with a wide area network (WAN) that includes a user device, and a processor that is contained at least in part in the monitoring device. The process is configured to cause a plurality of access points to the wireless network to be displayed on the user device, each of the plurality of access points having a corresponding credential associated therewith. The wireless network is configured to permit the selection of some or all of the plurality of access points and to generate a computer-readable code that includes information for the selected access points and associated credentials. The computer-readable code then is read by the monitoring device.

These and other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings. This problem is solved by the subject-matter of the independent claims. Advantageous examples of the present disclosure are the subject-matter of the dependent claims.

Preferred exemplary embodiments of the invention are illustrated in the accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals represent like parts throughout, and in which:.

Referring now to <FIG>, in accordance with an aspect of the invention, an electronic system <NUM> for real-time monitoring can include one or more monitoring devices <NUM> and a hub or base station <NUM>. A number "n" 12a-12n of monitoring devices are schematically illustrated in <FIG>. Unless otherwise specified, all references to an "imaging device" <NUM> should be construed to apply equally to any of the imaging devices 12a-12n. One or more user devices <NUM>, such as a smart phone, tablet, laptop, or PC, communicate with the base station <NUM>. Each user device <NUM> includes a display that typically includes both an audio display and a video display, internal computing and storage capabilities, and a program or application servicing as a user interface for the system <NUM>. In the case of a smart phone, the display typically will include a touch screen and a speaker.

Each monitoring device <NUM> is configured to perform any of a variety of monitoring, sensing, and communicating functions, including acquiring data and to transmitting it to the base station <NUM> for further processing and/or transmission to a server and/or the user device(s) <NUM>. Each monitoring device <NUM> may be battery powered or wired. Several such monitoring devices may be mounted around a building or other structure or area being monitored. For example, in the case of a residential home, monitoring devices <NUM> could be mounted by each entrance, selected windows, and even on a gate or light pole. A monitoring device <NUM> also could be incorporated into or coupled to a doorbell, floodlight, etc. The monitoring devices <NUM> may comprise any combination of devices capable of monitoring a designated area such as a home, office, industrial or commercial building, yard, parking or storage lot, etc. Each individual monitoring device <NUM> may monitor one or a combination of parameters such as motion, sound, temperature etc. Each of the individual monitoring devices 12may be or include still or video cameras, temperature sensors, microphones, motion sensors, etc. At least one such monitoring device, one of which is shown at shown at 12ain <FIG>, is an imaging device described in more detail below. The data acquired by imaging device 12a typically will correspond to a video image, and each imaging device 12a may be or include a camera such as a video camera <NUM>.

Still referring to <FIG>, as labeled on imaging device 12a, one or more of the imaging device may include microphone <NUM>, visible and/or infrared (IR) lights <NUM>, a power supply <NUM> such as a battery or battery pack, and/or imaging device electronic circuitry <NUM>. Circuit <NUM> may include one or more imagers <NUM>, an audio circuit <NUM>, a media encoder <NUM>, a processor <NUM>, a non-transient memory storage <NUM> and/or a wireless I/O communication device (radio) <NUM>, among other things.

Still referring to <FIG>, each monitoring device <NUM> can communicate with the base station <NUM> through a network <NUM>. It is contemplated that the network <NUM> may be in whole or in part a wired network, a wireless network, or a combination thereof. The network <NUM> may include a private Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) <NUM>, hosted by the base station <NUM> operating as an access point. One such network is an IEEE <NUM> network. The hub or base station <NUM> can include base station electronic circuitry <NUM> including a first wireless I/O communication device <NUM> for communicating with the monitoring devices <NUM> over the WLAN <NUM>, a second wired or wireless I/O communication device <NUM> for accessing a Wide Area Network (WAN) <NUM>, such as the Internet through a Local Area Network (WLAN) <NUM> connected to a Gateway and/or Router <NUM>, a processor <NUM> and/or a non-transient memory storage <NUM>, among other things. The base station <NUM> also could be combined with a router <NUM> or another device in a single module, which would still be considered a "base station" within the meaning of the present disclosure. It should be apparent that "circuity" in the regard can comprise hardware, firmware, software, or any combination thereof.

Instead of or in addition to containing a video camera <NUM> or other imaging device, one or all of the monitoring devices <NUM> may include one or more sensors <NUM> configured to detect one or more types of conditions or stimulus, for example, motion, opening or closing events of doors or windows, sounds such as breaking glass or gunshots, the presence of smoke, carbon monoxide, water leaks, and temperature changes. The monitoring devices <NUM> may further include or be other devices such as audio devices, including microphones, sound sensors, and speakers configured for audio communication or providing audible alerts, such as Arlo Chime™ audible devices. The imaging devices or cameras <NUM>, sensors <NUM>, or other monitoring devices <NUM> also may be incorporated into form factors of other house or building accessories, such as doorbells, floodlights, etc., each which may be available on a stand-alone basis or as part of any of a number of systems available from Arlo Technologies, Inc. of Carlsbad, California.

Still referring to <FIG>, the base station <NUM> may also be in communication with a server <NUM>, which may be a cloud-server accessible via the WAN <NUM>. The server <NUM> can include or be coupled to a microprocessor, a microcontroller or other programmable logic element (individually and collectively considered "a controller") configured to execute a program. Alternatively, interconnected aspects of the controller and the programs executed by it could be distributed in various permutations within the monitoring device <NUM>, the base station <NUM>, the user device <NUM>, and the server <NUM>. This program, while operating at the server level, may be utilized in filtering, processing, categorizing, storing, recalling and transmitting data received from the monitoring devices <NUM> via the base station <NUM>. Server <NUM> may also be in communication with or include a computer vision (CV) program, also referred to as an image evaluation module, which can apply one or more filters or processes, such as edge detection, facial recognition, motion detection, etc., to detect one or more characteristics of the image or other recording such as, but not limited to, identifying or detection of a specific individual person(s) or a person(s) in general, an animal, vehicle, or package present in the image or recording. The CV program and further capabilities will further be described below.

In operation, each monitoring device <NUM> can be configured, through suitable mounting of the monitoring device <NUM> and/or through suitable manipulation of its controls, to monitor an area of interest, such as a part of a building or section of property or a monitored zone. In the case of imaging device 12a, the device 12a may capture an image automatically upon detection of a triggering event and/or upon receipt of a command from a user device <NUM>. An image also may be captured automatically upon detection of a triggering event detected by a detector. Whether the monitoring device is an imaging device or some other device, the triggering event may be motion, and the detector may be a motion detector. Instead of or in addition to detecting motion, the detector could include an IR sensor detecting heat, such as the body heat of an animal or person. The triggering event also could be sound, in which case the detector may include the microphone <NUM>. In this case, the triggering event may be a sound exceeding a designated decibel level or some other identifiable threshold. Upon receiving notification from a monitoring device <NUM> of a triggering event, the system <NUM> can generate an alert such as a push notification ("PN") and send it to one or more user devices <NUM> for indicating the triggering event. As explained in more detail below, the particular alert sent to the user device <NUM> will have characteristics that correspond to the type of stimulus or event that was detected.

In the case of the monitoring device being an image device 12a having a camera, whether camera operation is triggered by a command from a user device <NUM> or by detection of a triggering event, the camera <NUM> can then capture a raw video stream which, in turn, can be provided to the media encoder <NUM> for producing video packets in an encoded video stream. Similarly, the microphone <NUM> and the audio circuit <NUM> can capture a raw audio stream which, in turn, can be provided to the media encoder <NUM> for producing audio packets in an encoded audio stream. Accordingly, the video and/or audio packets, referred to herein as "media" packets, are provided in an encoded media stream. Under control of the processor <NUM> executing the program, the encoded media stream can be transmitted from the wireless I/O communication device <NUM> to the base station <NUM>. The monitoring device 12a also is provided by a user-accessible sync button <NUM> which, upon actuation, triggers an onboarding operation as described below.

The media stream may then be transmitted via the WAN <NUM> to a remote data storage device <NUM> in communication with a media server <NUM> for data storage and processing. The storage device <NUM> may be a cloud-based storage device, and the media server <NUM> may be a cloud server accessible via a wireless connection. A filtered or otherwise processed image can then be displayed on the user device <NUM>, along with additional visual and/or audio messaging such as a text and/or audio message identifying a generic or particular person or object.

<FIG> represents a specific example of imaging device 12a shown in in the form of a smart camera. In the illustration, the smart camera 12a has a small and compact housing <NUM> for enclosing and protecting the various camera components illustrated as blocks in <FIG>. The smart camera 12a includes a lens <NUM> and an imager device (or primary sensor) <NUM>. The imager <NUM> can be any suitable type of image capturing device or sensor, including, for example, an area array sensor, a Charge Coupled Device (CCD) sensor, a Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) sensor, or a linear array sensor, just to name a few possibilities. The imager <NUM> may capture images in suitable wavelengths on the electromagnetic spectrum. The imager <NUM> may capture color images and/or grayscale images.

The smart camera 12a has a field of view <NUM> extending radially from the outwardly facing lens <NUM>. The field of view <NUM> is a portion of the environment <NUM> within which the smart camera 12a can detect electromagnetic radiation via the lens <NUM> and imager <NUM>. The smart camera 12a is configured to capture images. An image is a digital representation of a scene for the environment <NUM> as captured by the smart camera 12a. Capturing an image refers to the act of obtaining and recording an image data file or stream of the digital representation. The scene is the portion of the environment <NUM> observed through the field of view <NUM>. Capturing a plurality of images in a timed sequence can result in a video. Capturing a video refers to the act of obtaining and recording a video data file or stream of the digital representation.

Still referring to <FIG>, the smart camera 12a has a controller <NUM> including a control architecture <NUM> having a processor <NUM> and a memory <NUM>. Of course, the controller could similarly have multiple processors, such as dual processors and accompanying memory. The processor <NUM> can include any component or group of components that are configured to execute, implement, and/or perform any of the processes or functions described herein or any form of instructions to carry out such processes or cause such processes to be performed. Examples of suitable processors include a microprocessor, microcontroller, and other circuitry that can execute software. Further examples of suitable processors include, but are not limited to, a central processing unit (CPU), an array processor, a vector processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a programmable logic array (PLA), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), programmable logic circuitry, and a controller. The processor <NUM> can include a hardware circuit (e.g., an integrated circuit) configured to carry out instructions contained in program code.

The memory <NUM> stores one or more types of instructions and/or data. The memory <NUM> can include volatile and/or non-volatile memory. Examples of suitable memory include RAM (Random Access Memory), flash memory, ROM (Read Only Memory), PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), registers, disks, drives, or any other suitable storage medium, or any combination thereof. The memory <NUM> can be a component of a processor, can be operatively connected to a processor for use thereby, or a combination of both. The memory <NUM> can include various instructions stored thereon. For example, the memory <NUM> can store one or more modules. Modules can be or include computer-readable instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause a processor to perform the various functions disclosed herein. While functions may be described herein for purposes of brevity, it is noted that the functions are performed by the processor <NUM> using the instructions stored on or included in the various modules described herein. Some modules may be stored remotely and accessible by a processor using, for instance, various communication devices and protocols.

The smart camera 12a typically communicates wirelessly (e.g., with the base station <NUM>) via an input/output device, such as a radio <NUM>. An example of a radio includes a wireless local area network (WLAN) radio. With the WLAN radio <NUM>, the smart camera 12a generally communicates over a short-range wireless communication network, such as the WLAN <NUM>. In one implementation, the radio <NUM> includes a transceiver <NUM> for transmitting and receiving signals to and from the base station <NUM>, via an antenna <NUM>. The transceiver <NUM> can be separate from or part of the control architecture <NUM>. The wireless communication can be as prescribed by the IEEE <NUM> standards in accordance with the Wi-Fi™ communication protocol. It is appreciated, however, that the smart camera 12a can be adapted to perform communications in accordance with other known or to be developed communication protocol, or even a proprietary communication protocol developed for a particular application. Also, while only a single transceiver <NUM> and single antenna <NUM> is shown, multiple transceivers and multiple antennas can be used to communicate at multiple communication frequency bands. Alternatively, the single transceiver <NUM> and the single radio <NUM> can communicate over multiple frequency bands.

The imaging devices 12a can further include one or more secondary sensors <NUM>. For example, a secondary sensor <NUM> may be a microphone, a motion sensor, a temperature sensor, an image sensor, or a vibration sensor.

An exemplary camera capable of incorporating aspects of the invention is an Arlo Ultra™ camera available from Arlo Technologies in Carlsbad, California, US. Before moving to other components of the system <NUM>, it should be understood by somebody skilled in the art that the imaging devices 12a includes many additional conventional components typically found in a wireless camera. Further discussion regarding these components is not provided herein since the components are conventional.

Turning now to <FIG>, the figure represents a specific example of the more generic base station <NUM> shown in <FIG>. In the illustration, the base station <NUM> has a housing <NUM> for enclosing and protecting the various components illustrated as blocks in <FIG>. The base station <NUM> has a controller <NUM>, including a processor <NUM> and a memory <NUM>. While the arrangement of <FIG> shows a single processor <NUM> and a single memory <NUM>, it is envisioned that many other arrangements are possible. For example, multiple elements of the base station <NUM> can include a distinct processor and memory. The processor <NUM> can include a component or group of components that are configured to execute, implement, and/or perform any of the processes or functions described herein for the base station <NUM> or a form of instructions to carry out such processes or cause such processes to be performed. Examples of suitable processors include a microprocessor, a microcontroller, and other circuitry that can execute software. Further examples of suitable processors include, but are not limited to, a core processor, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphical processing unit (GPU), an array processor, a vector processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a programmable logic array (PLA), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), math co-processors, and programmable logic circuitry. The processor <NUM> can include a hardware circuit (e.g., an integrated circuit) configured to carry out instructions contained in program code. In arrangements in which there are a plurality of processors, such processors can work independently from each other, or one or more processors can work in combination with each other.

Still referring to <FIG>, the base station <NUM> includes a memory <NUM> for storing one or more types of instructions and/or data. The memory <NUM> can include volatile and/or non-volatile memory. Examples of suitable memory include RAM (Random Access Memory), flash memory, ROM (Read Only Memory), PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), registers, disks, drives, or any other suitable storage medium, or any combination thereof. The memory <NUM> can be a component of the processor <NUM>, can be operatively connected to the processor <NUM> for use thereby, or a combination of both. The controller <NUM> can include various instructions stored thereon. For example, the controller <NUM> can store one or more modules. Modules can be or include computer-readable instructions that, when executed, cause the processor <NUM> to perform the various functions disclosed for the module. While functions may be described herein for purposes of brevity, it is noted that the functions are performed by the processor <NUM> or another portion of the controller using the instructions stored on or included in the various modules. Some modules may be stored remotely and accessible by the processor <NUM> or another portion of the controller using, for instance, various communication devices and protocols.

Still referring to <FIG>, the base station <NUM> typically communicates wirelessly (e.g., with the imaging devices <NUM>) via a radio <NUM>. An example of a radio includes a wireless local area network (WLAN) radio. With the WLAN radio <NUM>, the base station <NUM> generally communicates over a short-range wireless communication network, such as the WLAN <NUM>. In one implementation, the radio <NUM> includes a transceiver <NUM> for transmitting and receiving signals to and from the base station <NUM>, via an antenna <NUM>. The transceiver <NUM> can be separate to or part of the controller <NUM>. The wireless communication can be as prescribed by the IEEE <NUM> standards in accordance with the Wi-Fi™ communication protocol. It is appreciated, however, that the base station <NUM> can be adapted to perform communications in accordance with other known or to be developed communication protocol, or even a proprietary communication protocol developed for a particular application. Also, while only a single transceiver <NUM> and single antenna <NUM> is shown, multiple transceivers and multiple antennas can be used to communicate at multiple communication frequency bands. Alternatively, the single transceiver <NUM> and the single radio <NUM> can communicate over multiple frequency bands.

The base station <NUM> includes the user interface <NUM>. The user interface <NUM> can include an input apparatus and an output apparatus. The input apparatus includes a device, component, system, element, or arrangement or groups thereof that enable information/data to be entered into the base station <NUM> from a user. The output apparatus includes any device, component, or arrangement or groups thereof that enable information/data to be presented to the user. The input apparatus and the output apparatus can be combined as a single apparatus, such as a touch screen commonly used by many electronic devices.

The base station <NUM> includes a communication port <NUM>, which is configured to provide a communication interface between a larger computer network, such as the Internet via the gateway.

In one construction, since the base station <NUM> is powered by an enduring power source (e.g., power outlet), it is not necessary for the base station <NUM> to be operated in a default sleep mode, although this is not precluded. An exemplary base station capable of incorporating aspects of the invention is an Arlo SmartHub™ base station available from Arlo Technologies in Carlsbad, California, US. Before moving to the operation of the system <NUM>, it should be well understood by somebody skilled in the art that the base station <NUM> includes many additional conventional components typically found in a base station or access point.

As briefly mentioned above, the CV program, or image evaluation module, stored in or accessible by the controller on the server <NUM> may be equipped with additional features to enhance operating capabilities of system <NUM>. For purposes of discussion, the CV program will be discussed with respect to execution on the server <NUM>. However, it is understood that controller may refer to the controller on the server <NUM>, the controller <NUM> on the imaging device 12a, the controller <NUM> on the base station <NUM>, or a combination thereof. Each controller includes memory configured to store instructions and a processor configured to execute the stored instructions. Modules may be stored in the memory for any of the devices and executed by the corresponding processor. The imaging device 12a is in communication with the base station <NUM>, and the base station <NUM> is in communication with the server <NUM>. Thus, a portion of the processing, which will be described with respect to the CV program, may be executed on any controller and the output of the processing communicated to another processor for another portion of the processing.

In order to on-board/integrate a monitoring device <NUM> having a camera, such as smart security camera 12a, into monitoring system <NUM>, it is necessary to provide monitoring device 12a-12n with access credentials <NUM> for the access points to the various frequency bands of WLAN <NUM> broadcast by gateway router <NUM>. More specifically, gateway router <NUM> is initialized so as to broadcast WLAN <NUM> on various frequency bands, each having its own unique network name 158a and corresponding password 158b. The connection point to each of these frequency bands is an access point. In addition, when initialized, gateway router <NUM> connects to WAN <NUM> so as to interact with server <NUM> and provides server <NUM> with data regarding access credentials <NUM> for the various frequency bands being broadcast. If a user utilizes a PC or laptop to interact with gateway router <NUM>, the user may access the device through a user account set up on server <NUM> of cloud-based control service system <NUM>. Alternatively, if the user utilizes a mobile device, such as a smart phone or tablet, an application may be provided thereon which allows the user access to their account.

Once logged in their account, a user can gain access to the network names 158a and corresponding passwords 158b for each of the access points to the various frequency bands of WLAN <NUM> broadcast by gateway router <NUM>, either by direct communication with the gateway router <NUM> or through communication with server <NUM>, <FIG>. It is contemplated for the user to change network names 158a and corresponding passwords 158b to user-selected network names 158a and corresponding user-selected passwords 158b, if so desired by the user.

Referring now to <FIG>, upon completion of the naming of the network names 158a and corresponding passwords 158b for each of the access points, a user may now select the access points (typically by selecting network names 158a) for connection to WLAN <NUM>, block <NUM>, <FIG>. For example, a user may select the network name 158a for the access point to the <NUM> frequency band and the network name 158a for the access point to the <NUM> frequency band. The user may be prompted to add each access point sequentially or, alternatively, a user may select a plurality of access points provided in a list displayed on the display screen <NUM> of user device <NUM>. In addition, a user may be prompted on user device <NUM> to select the type of monitoring device <NUM> to be added to monitoring system <NUM>, e.g., smart security camera system 12a. It is contemplated for the user to select the type of monitoring device <NUM> to be added to monitoring system <NUM> through a drop-down menu displayed on user device <NUM> or by the user entering an identification code (e.g., a UPC code) corresponding to the type of monitoring device <NUM> to be added.

Once the type of monitoring device <NUM>, in this case a smart camera 12a, is selected, the program or application on the user device <NUM> generates a machine/computer-readable code, such as a QR code, at block <NUM>, <FIG>. The code includes data corresponding to all access points and associated access credentials <NUM> (or in other words all of the network names 158a and corresponding passwords 158b selected by the user) embedded therein which are required for monitoring device 12a to connect to the various access points of WLAN <NUM>. As is known, a QR code is comprised of black squares arranged in a square grid on a white background, which can be read by an imaging device such as a camera, processed, and appropriately interpreted to allow for the transfer of the data embedded in the code. The QR code <NUM> may be displayed on display <NUM> of user device <NUM> as shown in <FIG>, or the QR code <NUM> may be printed out by a user.

After being powered up, monitoring device <NUM> must be placed in a connection mode to transfer data thereto. By way of example, a user may press and release sync button <NUM> on monitoring device 12a (<FIG>) to cause monitoring device <NUM> to enter the connection mode wherein the data corresponding to all access points and associated access credentials <NUM> which are required for monitoring device 12a to connect to WLAN <NUM> may be transferred thereto. More specifically, with monitoring device 12a in its connection mode, a visual display, such as a blinking LED, is provided to indicate to the user that imaging device or image capture element <NUM> of monitoring device 12a is now configured to scan QR code <NUM>, heretofore described. Imager <NUM> of monitoring device 12a is positioned within a set range of (e.g., approximately <NUM> inches) and directed at QR code <NUM> such that QR code <NUM> is within the field of view of imager <NUM> of monitoring device 12a. When imager <NUM> of monitoring device <NUM> reads QR code <NUM>, monitoring device 12a and/or user device <NUM> may provide an audible signal informing the user that monitoring device 12a has read QR code <NUM> and received the data embedded in QR code <NUM>, block <NUM>, <FIG>. If no audible signal is provided, the process may be repeated.

Once QR code <NUM> is scanned by imager <NUM> of monitoring device 12a, image signal processor <NUM> causes the data embedded in QR code <NUM> to be processed, appropriately interpreted, and transmitted to computer-readable memory <NUM> for future reference, block <NUM>, <FIG>. In addition, image signal processor <NUM> causes monitoring device <NUM> to scan the area for the various access points identified in the data received via QR code <NUM>, block <NUM>, <FIG>, and prioritizes the located access points based on the strength of signals received by wireless I/O communication device <NUM>, block <NUM>, <FIG>. Once the access points are prioritized, the system selects the access point having the strongest signal strength for connection to the network and causes primary wireless I/O communication device <NUM> of monitoring device 12a to connect to an initial access point having the strongest signal strength utilizing network name 158a and corresponding password 158b for the access point obtained via QR code <NUM>. This allows allowing monitoring device <NUM> to send and receive data over WLAN <NUM>, through monitoring system <NUM>, and typically from WLAN <NUM> to WAN <NUM> for processing by server <NUM> (<FIG>), block <NUM>, <FIG>. Once monitoring device <NUM> connects to WLAN <NUM>, a serial number of and/or other information concerning the monitoring device 12a may be transmitted to server <NUM>. Server <NUM> may provide confirmation of the successful integration of monitoring device 12a into monitoring system <NUM>. For example, server <NUM> may causes the serial number of monitoring device 12a and the time zone in which monitoring device resides to be transmitted to user device <NUM> for display on display <NUM>, block <NUM>, <FIG>.

As should be apparent from the above discussion of the controller, some or all of the functions performed by the server <NUM> could instead be performed, by in part or whole by circuitry stored in the base station <NUM> or other devices.

With monitoring device 12a integrated into monitoring system <NUM>, data packets corresponding to sounds, images, captured frames, and/or video clips captured by the camera of monitoring device 12a may be transmitted by monitoring device <NUM> over WLAN <NUM> to the base station <NUM>, to the server <NUM> over WAN <NUM>, and/or to the one of more user devices <NUM>, block <NUM>, <FIG>. Further, data packets from one of more user devices <NUM>, server <NUM> or the various components of monitoring system <NUM> may be transmitted to monitoring device 12a over WLAN <NUM>.

Referring again to <FIG>, during operation, image signal processor <NUM> of monitoring device 12a monitors communications on WLAN <NUM>, block <NUM>, <FIG>. If image signal processor <NUM> of monitoring device 12a senses no disruption in communication, monitoring device 12a remains in the default operational state and communications continue through the initial access point, block <NUM>. If, at decision block <NUM>, it is determined that there is a connectivity issue or communication(s) disruption, primary radio <NUM> of monitoring device 12a attempts to reconnect to WLAN <NUM> through the initial access point at block <NUM>. At decision block <NUM>, monitoring device <NUM> evaluates whether the reconnection attempt was successful. If the reconnection attempt is successful, monitoring device is restored to the default operational state at block <NUM>, and system communications continue through the initial access point.

Still referring to <FIG>, if it is determined at decision block <NUM> that the reconnection attempt has failed, image signal processor <NUM> of monitoring device 12a once again scans the area for the various access points identified in the data received via QR code <NUM>, block <NUM>, and prioritizes the remaining access points based on signal strength, block <NUM>, and the access point having the strongest signal strength is identified. Once the access points are prioritized, image signal processor <NUM> of monitoring device <NUM> causes primary radio <NUM> of monitoring device 12a to connect to a second access point having the strongest signal strength detected, utilizing the access credentials <NUM> for the second access point obtained via QR code <NUM>, thereby allowing monitoring device <NUM> to send and receive data over WLAN <NUM>, through monitoring system <NUM>, and typically from WLAN <NUM> to WAN <NUM> through the internet provider system for processing by server <NUM> (<FIG>) at block <NUM>. Thereafter, image signal processor <NUM> of monitoring device 12a monitors communications on WLAN <NUM> through second access point, block <NUM>. If no connection is made through the second access point after a certain number of attempts or a certain amount of elapsed time for the attempts as dictated by, for example, a stored program on the monitoring device 12a and/or server <NUM>, image signal processor <NUM> of monitoring device 12a may once again scans the area for the various access points identified in the data received via QR code <NUM> and repeat the connection process, block <NUM> as heretofore described.

Although the operations described above with reference to <FIG> are described in conjunction with the specific smart camera type of imaging device 12a shown in <FIG>, it is to be understood that the same are comparable functions could be performed with the more generic monitoring device of <FIG> or any of a variety monitoring devices as well, so long as the monitoring device has the capability of reading a QR code or otherwise acquiring the required data.

Although the best mode contemplated by the inventors of carrying out the present invention is disclosed above, practice of the above invention is not limited thereto.

Claim 1:
A method for on-boarding/integrating a monitoring device into an electronic monitoring system, comprising:
displaying a plurality of access points to a wireless network on a user device, each of the plurality of access points having a corresponding credential associated therewith;
selecting multiple access points of the plurality of access points;
generating a computer-readable code including information for the selected access points and associated credentials on the user device, the computer-readable code being readable by the monitoring device; and
reading the computer-readable code with the monitoring device;
identifying with the monitoring device one of the selected access points having the greatest signal strength and providing the same as an initial access point;
connecting the monitoring device to the wireless network via the initial access point and the credential associated with the initial access point;
monitoring the connection between the monitoring device and the wireless network and if the connection between the monitoring device and the wireless network is disrupted, conducting the additional steps of:
attempting to reconnect the monitoring device to the wireless network via the initial access point and the credential associated with the initial access point;
if the monitoring device fails to reconnect to the wireless network via the initial access point, conducting the additional steps of:
identifying with the monitoring device a second of the selected access points having the greatest signal strength and providing the same as a second access point;
connecting the monitoring device to the wireless network via the second access point and the credential associated with the second access point.