DE102020122650A1 - Method and arrangement for setting up a wireless connection between a device and a Bluetooth-enabled terminal - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for establishing a wireless connection between at least one device (10) and a Bluetooth-capable end device (13) comprising a mobile application (12), the mobile application (12) being used for communication (15) between the device (10 ) and the Bluetooth-capable end device (13) is designed and set up, the device (10) comprising a Bluetooth-capable transceiver unit, and the transceiver unit is designed and set up to transmit data within a defined transmission/reception range (14). send / receive, comprising the steps of repetitively sending a control signal (11) by the transceiver unit of the device (10), automatically connecting the transceiver unit to the terminal (13) according to the low-energy protocol stack as soon as the Bluetooth-enabled end device (13) is within the transmission/reception range (14), automatic opening of the mobile application (1 2) on the terminal (13) using the control signal (11) to set up communication (15) between the mobile application (12) and the device (10) if the control signal (11) was received by the terminal (13). . Furthermore, the present invention relates to a corresponding arrangement.

Description

The invention relates to a method for setting up a wireless connection between at least one device and a mobile Bluetooth-enabled terminal device that includes a mobile application and includes the low-energy protocol stack.

Furthermore, the invention relates to an arrangement for setting up a wireless connection between at least one device and a mobile Bluetooth-enabled terminal device that includes a mobile application and includes the low-energy protocol stack.

Such methods are always used when a connection is to be established between two Bluetooth-enabled devices. If a connection is to be established between an end device, for example a smartphone, a tablet PC or a smart watch, and another Bluetooth-enabled device, a mobile application must be opened regularly on the end device to run the Bluetooth-enabled device, or a large number of applications Steps are initiated to control the device using the terminal, for example, or to set up communication between the two devices. Such communication between devices is important for many processes, for example to ensure that the device, due to existing security measures such as e.g. B. Age checks may be carried out.

From the document U.S. 2017/0354183 A1 an electronic cigarette with a Bluetooth device is known. Using the Bluetooth device, information on the output power and smoke data of a user is transmitted to another Bluetooth-capable end device. In order to set up the further end device for receiving the information mentioned, it is necessary beforehand to install a corresponding program or a corresponding app on the end device.

Many wireless consumer products, such as fitness trackers and smart home gadgets, require the user to install a mobile application on their smartphone and then pair the mobile application with the wireless device. After the initial pairing of the mobile application with the wireless device, the user's smartphone is also paired. The paired devices can then communicate with each other, i. H. Exchange data with each other or execute signals or operations on the respective devices. After that, the relationship between the device, the mobile application, and the smartphone remains intact unless the user chooses to ignore that device in the smartphone's Bluetooth settings.

The communication or connection between a Bluetooth-enabled device and a mobile application of a terminal device can be handled using various protocols. The most popular protocol today is Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), which uses a GATT service to exchange or synchronize information between the device and the user's mobile application. In order for a synchronization between a BLE device and a mobile application to take place, the user must reliably carry out a series of steps so that the processes are functional. It must be ensured that the end device (e.g. the smartphone) is switched on and that the current versions of the respective programs to be run are installed. The Bluetooth-enabled device must also be switched on. In order to control applications on the device using the end device, the mobile application must then be opened and the device and the mobile application must be paired with one another or connected to one another. In order for successful communication between the two devices to be possible, in particular for synchronizing the Bluetooth-enabled device with a mobile application, these four conditions must be met.

Major mobile phone operating systems support automatic synchronization between a wireless device and the application in background mode, i. H. when the application is not in the foreground and without the user activating the synchronization function. Currently, only applications certified as health and fitness applications by the two leading operating systems can take advantage of the background sync feature, albeit on a limited basis. To improve cell phone battery life, the battery management system of the two major operating systems uses a proprietary algorithm to prioritize functions; Third-party applications always have a low priority over native functions. Therefore, regularly scheduled synchronizations of third-party applications are interrupted or canceled, resulting in frequent data gaps and even data loss. Data loss occurs, for example, when the device's memory is full and new data is generated but cannot be saved.

The aforementioned manner of communication between Bluetooth-enabled devices (devices) and end devices leads to a whole number of disadvantages. The individual steps do not usually represent demanding processes, but these steps are tedious and, above all, time-consuming. For this reason, many users neglect or forget to synchronize their wireless, Bluetooth-enabled devices with their end devices (e.g. smartphones) frequently and in good time, which means that execution programs on the devices are not up-to-date, which can lead to errors in the operation of the device or on the devices.

Communication between the wireless device and the mobile application is important, for example, to ensure that the device has the most up-to-date firmware, to function securely and reliably, and to provide the user and the manufacturer with valuable features such as B. the ability to control the device settings, monitor the performance of the device, analyze the behavior and consumption of the user and control the device remotely. Above all, however, reliable and regular communication between the wireless device and the mobile application is a mandatory requirement in order to be able to offer the user and the manufacturer new digital services. In this way, it is possible for the manufacturer to offer and revise digital business models on the one hand, and on the other hand it is possible for the user to be provided with the latest functions of the respective device, which can be installed and activated on the device, for example, via software updates be able. These services are also known as Software as a Service (SaaS).

In addition, if the user does not remember to regularly synchronize their device with the mobile application, data gaps arise, i.e. information is missing on the device and/or in the mobile application. If information is missing, then the device can become a security risk, many relevant services will become unavailable and the value of the product can decrease. A lack of synchronization can therefore be disadvantageous both for the manufacturer or provider of the device and for the user. To get complete and accurate data from Bluetooth-enabled devices, some manufacturers reward users for constant manual synchronization. The user needs to turn on the device, open and pair the application with their device, and manually enable the sync feature. This requires the user's commitment and discipline; for example, the user can be rewarded with incentives, i.e. the more often he syncs, the more rewards he will receive. Another approach is to avoid synchronization via the end device by connecting the device directly to a network with, for example, GSM, LoRa or SigFox technology, through which synchronization is to take place. However, this way is expensive because (a) additional electronic components such. B. an eSIM is required, (b) a more powerful battery is required to support the sending function and (c) the user must subscribe to a monthly data plan with a mobile operator.

With many electronic devices, there are also efforts to ensure that the devices cannot be used without supervision, for example through age checks, or that further use can be prevented in the event of recall campaigns by the manufacturer. Continued use of devices can lead to health restrictions in some areas. It must therefore be ensured that the user does not expose himself to any health risks when using the device and is authorized to use the device. In particular in the field of medical devices and when using e-cigarettes, it must be ensured and documented that the device may be used.

It is therefore the object of the present invention to propose a method that ensures largely automated, secure and convenient data synchronization between a Bluetooth-enabled device and a terminal device that includes a mobile application and enables a wireless connection to be set up. Furthermore, the task is to propose a corresponding arrangement.

The object is achieved by a method with the features mentioned at the outset in that the mobile application is designed and set up for communication between the device and the Bluetooth-enabled terminal device, the device comprising a Bluetooth-enabled transceiver that includes the low-energy protocol stack , and the transmitter/receiver unit is designed and set up to transmit/receive data within a defined transmission/reception range, and the method according to the invention comprises the following steps: repetitive transmission of a control signal by the transmitter/receiver unit of the device, automatic connection the transceiver unit with the terminal according to the low-energy protocol stack, as soon as the Bluetooth-enabled terminal is within the transmission / reception range, automatic opening of the mobile application on the terminal using the control signal to enable communication between the mobile application and set up the device if the control signal was received by the terminal. The method according to the invention offers a number of advantages. Thus, by repetitively sending the Steuersig As a result, signals are continuously sent from the device, which automatically enable communication between the device and the terminal device when they are received by the terminal device that includes a mobile application. In this way, time-consuming and sometimes complex partial steps can be avoided in the desired communication between the device and the terminal or the application of a terminal. On the one hand, this simplifies communication and, on the other hand, saves time when establishing a connection or setting up communication. The associated communication, which can also be referred to as synchronization, or which in particular sets up synchronization between the device and the terminal device or the mobile application, leads to absolute data integrity between the device and the terminal device. This means that the user no longer has to independently communicate between the devices or synchronize the data, which would otherwise be necessary. It is more advantageously possible that data can be sent between the device and the end device or the mobile application without the need for further external transmission or authentication steps. The solution according to the invention ensures that a Bluetooth-enabled device and a mobile application or a terminal with a mobile application automatically pair and thus synchronize information, data, settings and firmware reliably and promptly automatically and without user intervention, or for the transmission of data communicate. This is preferably done whenever new data is available, ie during or immediately after the intended use of the device. The invention is therefore unique in that it is fully automated and requires no user intervention. Furthermore, it does not rely on native operating system functionality such as iOS and Android functionality, making it reliable and cross-platform.

A “device” within the meaning of the invention is any electrically operable device, also called a device, which is designed and set up to set up a wireless connection. The device can thus be a coffee machine, an e-cigarette, an inhaler, etc., for example. The devices have appropriate components, which makes it possible to set up a wireless connection on the one hand and at least one Bluetooth-capable transceiver unit that includes the low-energy protocol stack on the other. Such components can be combined into a single unit, or represent separate components.

Within the meaning of the invention, “wireless connection” or “connecting” essentially means receiving the control signals and establishing a connection between the device and the terminal device. Communication is preferably only possible through the established connection to one another. "Communication" or "Communicate" essentially represents the data exchange / synchronization between the devices, preferably via the mobile application.

The "bluetooth-enabled transceiver unit comprising the low-energy protocol stack" is also known as a BLE unit, where BLE stands for the protocol of Bluetooth Low Energy. The BLE of the device or the end device expressly includes standards for localization, such as is implemented using iBeacon, for example.

“Mobile, Bluetooth-enabled end devices that include the low-energy protocol stack” are understood to mean all portable or stationary end devices that are designed and set up to run a mobile application and support the Bluetooth standard, in particular BLE. For example, smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, computers, etc. fall under mobile Bluetooth-capable end devices comprising the low-energy protocol stack, with transportable devices being preferred since they allow the method to be used according to the invention regardless of location. The “mobile, Bluetooth-enabled end device comprising the low-energy protocol stack” is also referred to below simply as a Bluetooth-enabled end device, mobile end device, end device or the like, but this is to be understood as meaning a mobile Bluetooth-enabled end device comprising the low-energy protocol stack is.

The "mobile application" within the meaning of the invention is to be understood in particular as an accompanying application or mobile accompanying application and is also known as such, i. H. it is an application designed for a specific device and not just any application. For example, the terminal X can only open the mobile application (companion application) for X. The "mobile application" is simply referred to as an application or app. A "mobile application" is an application software for mobile devices or mobile operating systems. In particular, the term “mobile application” regularly includes “the mobile Bluetooth-enabled end device that includes the low-energy protocol stack”.

The "defined transmission/reception range" of the "transmission/reception unit" is determined on the one hand by the technical specifications of the transmission/reception unit capture unit and on the other hand, this is specified by the low-energy protocol stack, ie such modules or protocols are designed to send/receive data within a defined range. For example, iBeacon modules can reach a range of up to 30 meters. However, the range can preferably be divided into different categories depending on the signal strength to the device, as a result of which different actions or signals are sent out, for example. For example, a differentiation into four range categories is conceivable: a) unknown distance - (unknown), b) immediate - (up to 50 cm), c) near - (up to 2 m) or d) far - (up to 30 m) .

A preferred embodiment of the invention is characterized in that before the first automatic connection of the transceiver to the terminal, the terminal and the device were coupled to one another in a previously performed authentication step. This ensures that the device or the mobile application only establishes an automatic connection with the appropriately authenticated mobile application or with the appropriately authenticated device. This prevents the data from being passed on to unauthorized bodies or read by unauthorized third parties. The process of coupling thus includes the appropriate authentication between the device and the mobile application. In this way, the user only has to couple the two modules to be connected to one another once in order to then automatically be provided with a connection between the devices, provided that the device and the mobile application have completed a coupling process. As a result, the device and the end device preferably remain coupled to one another until the coupling is revoked. Particularly preferably, the coupling and the automatic connection of the devices can be separated at any time.

A preferred development of the invention is characterized in that the mobile application is opened by means of the control signal, in particular when the mobile application on the terminal is completely closed. Where "completely closed" means in particular that the mobile application on the end device is not running in the foreground or in the background, i. H. that the mobile application is no longer executed in the terminal's cache. In this way, the wireless connection between the device and the end device can be established at any time, regardless of the current availability of the mobile application, which is only opened automatically in a further step. In an advantageous embodiment, the mobile application can be opened in the background without having to actively open the mobile application. This leads to a significantly higher acceptance and user-friendliness of such mobile applications and to a larger range of functions of the device and the mobile application.

An expedient refinement of the invention is characterized in that the control signal is sent/received on the basis of a Bluetooth profile from the low-energy protocol stack, in particular GATT. In this way, a standardized exchange of data is possible without having to penetrate too deeply into the integrated operating systems of the end devices. Such a protocol is regularly stored across platforms in the existing components, in particular in the transceiver units currently available, as a result of which integration between different manufacturers or operating systems can be set up easily.

A preferred development of the invention is characterized in that the communication between the device and the mobile application is based on a wireless connection between the device and the terminal device, in particular on a radio standard such as e.g. B. Bluetooth, WLAN, ZigBee, NFC, RFID, Wibree, WiMAX, mobile radio. More preferably, several of the above connections can be executed simultaneously or sequentially to ensure reliable data transmission. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the communication takes place using the existing transmitter/receiver unit in accordance with the Bluetooth protocol. The different wireless standards can be used depending on the data to be transmitted, with a standard that supports transmission of high data rates being automatically selected if the data rates are expected to be high. The data between the device and the mobile application can preferably be exchanged bidirectionally. It is thus possible to control certain selected functions of the device using the mobile terminal device and/or to transmit information from the device to the mobile terminal device. This information can, for example, be instructions for operating the device, which it is of great importance that the user of the device has taken note of in a comprehensible manner. The fact that the user has noticed this information can optionally be reported back from the mobile terminal device to the device via Bluetooth and thus documented. In this way, the data can be analyzed in a timely and high-quality manner to gain valuable insights. Thus, both users and Her monitor product performance, monitor device usage behavior, and remotely control the device.

A further expedient embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the mobile application opened by the control signal carries out one or more of the following measures: comparison of operating data of the device between an actual value and a target value; Executing the device according to its specification if the actual value corresponds to the target value of the operating data; Receiving operating data by the device with the target value from the mobile application and/or from the terminal device if the actual value deviates from the target value of the operating data in order to bring about the target value of the operating data on the device; blocking of device-related actions if the actual value deviates from the target value of the operating data in order to prevent the device from being used as intended; Documenting the actual value and/or the target value of the operating data in the mobile application and/or on the device. The process of comparison gives the possibility of a continuous comparison of an actual and a target state, which ensures that the data to be compared is always up-to-date. The measure carried out by the control signal particularly preferably includes a synchronization of data between the device and the terminal device. If one or more data pairs do not match, the measures provided ensure that potentially damaging use does not occur, or alternatively it is documented that the user has used the device even though the actual data does not correspond to the target data . As a result, the users of the device can use the advantages of new, attractive services and business models at the latest point in time, which are made available in an up-to-date manner using data provided by the mobile application. This also enables the manufacturers of the device to develop new business models, which means that new and more diverse sources of income can be opened up.

According to a further preferred embodiment, the operating data includes firmware data for carrying out intended actions on the device. The transferability of the operating data or the firmware data means that data can be transmitted, which is necessary for the basic functionality of the device. The data is essential for running or operating the device. The portability of this data ensures that the device is always equipped with the latest software for operating the device. This extends the lifespan of the device, enables greater functionality to be unlocked and represents a possibility, e.g. B. to provide security updates at short notice.

A preferred development of the invention is characterized in that the device is controlled wirelessly via the terminal device using the mobile application. In other words, the mobile application is set up in such a way that data can be exchanged, preferably bidirectionally, between the mobile terminal device and the device. It is thus possible to control certain selected functions of the device using the mobile terminal device and/or to transmit information from the device to the mobile terminal device. This information can, for example, be instructions for operating the device, which it is of great importance that the user of the device has taken note of in a comprehensible manner. The fact that the user has noticed this information can optionally be reported back from the mobile terminal device to the device via Bluetooth and thus documented. Controlling can also include all functions, such as starting or stopping the device when entering or leaving the transmission/reception range, or preheating components of the device.

Furthermore, the object is achieved by a corresponding arrangement with the features mentioned in that the mobile application is designed and set up for communication between the device and the Bluetooth-enabled terminal device, the device having a Bluetooth-enabled transmission system that includes the low-energy protocol stack. /receiving unit comprises, and the transmitting / receiving unit is designed and set up to send / receive data within a defined transmission / reception range, and wherein the transmitting / receiving unit is set up to carry out a repetitive transmission of a control signal in order to transmit / Receiving unit to automatically connect to the terminal according to the low-energy protocol stack as soon as the Bluetooth-enabled terminal is within the transmission / reception range and is designed to automatically open the mobile application on the terminal using the control signal in order to establish communication between the mobile A set up the application and the device if the control signal was received by the terminal device.

To avoid repetition, in connection with the arrangement according to the invention, reference is made to the advantages already described in detail in connection with the method according to the invention. These apply analogously Way also for the arrangement according to the invention given below.

A further expedient embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the device and/or the terminal device are designed and set up to couple the terminal device and the device to one another for authentication before the first automatic connection of the transceiver unit to the terminal device.

A further development is characterized in that the transmission/reception unit is designed and set up such that the control signal is transmitted/received on the basis of a Bluetooth profile from the low-energy protocol stack, in particular GATT.

In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the device and the terminal device are designed and set up to communicate with one another on the basis of a wireless connection, in particular using a radio standard such as e.g. B. Bluetooth, WLAN, ZigBee, NFC, RFID, Wibree, WiMAX, mobile radio.

A further expedient embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the mobile application is designed and set up to carry out one or more of the following measures: comparison of the operating data of the device between an actual value and a target value; Executing the device according to its specification if the actual value corresponds to the target value of the operating data; Receiving operating data by the device with the target value from the mobile application and/or from the terminal device if the actual value deviates from the target value of the operating data in order to bring about the target value of the operating data on the device; blocking of device-related actions if the actual value deviates from the target value of the operating data in order to prevent the device from being used as intended; Documenting the actual value and/or the target value of the operating data in the mobile application and/or on the device.

A preferred development of the invention is characterized in that the operating data of the device includes firmware data for carrying out specified actions on the device.

A further expedient embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the terminal device is designed and set up to control the device using the mobile application.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the device is an inhaler designed for inhaling an active substance released from an inhalation medium. In this way, core functions of the inhaler can preferably be conveniently controlled via the mobile terminal device. It is also possible to wirelessly transmit the operating parameters of the inhaler to the mobile device. This ensures that the user only uses an inhaler that has the most up-to-date data, e.g. B. software for operating / running the inhaler, ready before use of the inhaler is enabled. The inhaler mentioned can be both an inhaler for a medical indication and an e-cigarette or components thereof. The inhaler is particularly preferably an e-cigarette.

The method is particularly advantageously carried out with an inhaler and/or with an arrangement according to one or more of Claims 9 to 16.

Further expedient and/or advantageous features and developments of the method and of the arrangement result from the dependent claims and the description. Particularly preferred embodiments are explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings show the 1 until 9 each schematic representations to illustrate the steps of the method according to the invention and the arrangement according to the invention.

The basic steps of the method according to the invention for setting up a wireless connection between at least one device 10 and a mobile application 12 that includes a mobile device 13 that includes the low-energy protocol stack and is Bluetooth-enabled are explained using FIG 1 until 6 explained below. The mobile application 12 or the terminal 13 is designed and set up for communication 15 between the device 10 and the terminal 13 with Bluetooth capability. In the figures, the Bluetooth-enabled terminal 13 is shown as an example in the form of a smartphone. This representation is for illustrative purposes only. Of course, the terminal 13 is not limited to the smartphone shown, but rather includes any terminal 13 that in any case includes a mobile application 12 and is designed and set up to communicate with a corresponding device 10 on the basis of the low-energy protocol stack. The mobile application 12 is not shown in detail in the figures, but is mostly simplified as a white screen of the Bluetooth-capable end device 13. The mobile application 12 is radio in its design and in its function tionally not limited; however, the basic functionality of the communication 15 or synchronization is designed and set up on the basis of the mobile application 12 . The device 10 according to the invention comprises a Bluetooth-capable transceiver unit comprising the low-energy protocol stack, and the transceiver unit is designed and set up to transmit/receive data within a defined transmission/reception range. In the accompanying figures, the device 10 is shown by way of example in the form of an inhaler. This representation is for illustrative purposes only. Of course, the device 10 is not limited to the inhaler shown, but rather includes any device 10 that includes a Bluetooth-capable transceiver unit—not shown in the figures—that includes the low-energy protocol stack. The transmitter/receiver unit can be integrated in the device 10 on the outside or inside. The transceiver is preferably set up to act as an iBeacon device. For this purpose, the iBeacon protocol is implemented in the transmitter/receiver unit. As in 1 shown, the device 10 sends out a control signal 11, which is a broadcast message, for example.

The method according to the invention comprises the steps of repetitive transmission of the control signal 11 by the transmitter/receiver unit of the device 10, as is shown in 1 is shown. As soon as the Bluetooth-enabled end device 13 is within the transmission/reception range 14 (see 2 ) is located, there is an automatic connection of the transceiver unit of the device 10 with the terminal 13 according to the low-energy protocol stack, which is in the 3 and 4 is shown schematically. The mobile application 12 is then automatically opened on the terminal device 13 (see 5 ) by means of the control signal 11 in order to set up a communication 15 between the mobile application 12, 13 and the device 10 if the control signal 11 was received by the terminal 13 (see 4 ). The communication 15 between the device 10 and the mobile application 12 or the terminal 13 is in the 6 shown as data exchange. The arrows indicate that data can be transmitted from the device 10 to the terminal 13, as well as the possibility of data transmission between the terminal 13 and the device 10, ie it is possible to send and/or receive data.

7 shows schematically that the device 10 and/or the terminal device 13 are preferably designed and set up to couple the terminal device 13 and the device 10 to one another for authentication 16 before the first automatic connection of the transceiver unit to the terminal device 13. In the process For example, the device 10 sends a request message to the terminal 13 via Bluetooth as to whether it is allowed to send application programs or data to the terminal 13 . If the mobile terminal device 13 sends a confirmation message, the device 10 is coupled to the terminal device 13 via Bluetooth 16. The authentication can particularly preferably include further procedural steps, for example the input of matching codes, in order to increase security during the coupling process. The relationship or coupling 16 between the device 10, the mobile application 12 and the end device 13 is preferably maintained in order to ensure the automatic connection in the future.

More preferably, as in the 5 shown, the mobile application 12 is opened by means of the control signal 11, in particular when the mobile application 12 on the terminal device 13 is completely closed. For the method according to the invention, it is irrelevant whether the screen of the terminal 13 is unlocked during the process; what is important is that the mobile application 12 is opened by the control signal 11, as a result of which an automatic connection between the device 10 and the terminal 13 takes place. Communication 15 is then possible on the basis of the automatic connection, for example synchronization of data.

The transmission/reception unit is preferably designed and set up such that the control signal 11 is transmitted/received on the basis of a Bluetooth profile from the low-energy protocol stack, in particular GATT. Alternatively, the control signal 11 can also be sent/received on the basis of another Bluetooth profile, or by means of an independent standard for data transmission.

The device 10 and the terminal device 13 are advantageously designed and set up to communicate with one another on the basis of a wireless connection, in particular on a radio standard, in particular on a radio standard such as e.g. B. Bluetooth, WLAN, ZigBee, NFC, RFID, Wibree, WiMAX, mobile radio. The wireless connection or communication 15 is in 6 shown. A preferred wireless connection can be established depending on the existing radio connections in the connected devices. The established connection then enables data to be synchronized between the device 10 and the terminal device 13 or the mobile application 12, which preferably also takes place automatically after the automatic connection process.

In the method according to the invention, the mobile application 12 opened by the control signal 11 preferably carries out one or more of the following measures. A comparison of operating data of the device 10 between an actual value and a target value, ie a comparison is made as to whether the data for running the device 10 correspond to a target value, in other words whether the operating data are up to date. If this is not the case, an error message can be output on the device 10 and/or on the terminal 13/the mobile application 12, for example. The operating data can be essential or optional data for running the device 10, ie in particular (operating) software.

However, the operating data can also include data generated by the device 10 or the terminal 13, which must be compared with one another, e.g. B. Proof of age or authentication as well as data on the use of the device 10, particularly relevant for time restrictions on the use of the device 10. More preferably, the operating data include firmware data for carrying out intended actions on the device 10.

If the actual value of the operating data corresponds to the target value of the operating data, the device 10 can be designed according to its specifications. Another measure can be the device 10 receiving operating data with the target value from the mobile application 12 and/or from the terminal 13 if the actual value deviates from the target value of the operating data by the target value to bring about the operational data on the device 10; alternatively or additionally, a measure can include blocking actions involving the device 10 if the actual value deviates from the target value of the operating data in order to prevent the device 10 from being used as intended. This can be done, for example, by means of additional (mechanical) elements or software solutions (not shown in the figures). Another measure can be the documentation of the actual value and/or the target value of the operating data in the mobile application 12 and/or on the device 10 . All or just some of the above measures can take place or exist, whereby this can depend on the design and the legal requirements.

The device 10 is preferably controlled wirelessly via the terminal 13 by means of the mobile application 12, as is shown in FIG 9 is shown. For this purpose, the data transmitted to the device 10 via the mobile application 12 of the terminal device 13 includes control signals 17 in order to control the device 10 . With these control signals 17, for example, signals can be reproduced on the device 10, the device 10 or components thereof can be preheated, or other interactions specific to the respective device 10 can be carried out.

1. a) Die iBeacon-Software ist auf einer drahtlosen Vorrichtung 10 installiert.
2. b) Das Smartphone ist eingeschaltet.
3. c) Die mobile Applikation 12 kann ausgeschaltet werden.
4. d) Die Bluetooth-Kommunikation des Smartphones ist eingeschaltet.
5. e) Die drahtlose Vorrichtung 10 ist eingeschaltet.
6. f) Die drahtlose Vorrichtung 10 verfügt über Daten zum Teilen mit der mobilen Applikation 12.
7. g) Die drahtlose Vorrichtung 10 sendet ein Steuersignal 11 (iBeacon-Nachricht) und fordert das zuvor gekoppelte Smartphone zur Verbindung auf.
8. h) Das Smartphone wird in Reichweite des iBeacon der Vorrichtung 10 bewegt.
9. i) Das Steuersignal 11 (iBeacon-Nachricht) öffnet die mobile Applikation 12.
10. j) Die mobile Applikation 12 verbindet sich automatisch mit der drahtlosen Vorrichtung 10.
11. k) Die mobile Applikation 12 startet eine bidirektionale Synchronisation mit der Vorrichtung 10 unter Verwendung von GATT-Diensten.

In a further preferred embodiment according to the invention, the method for setting up a wireless connection comprises the following steps and specifications. Wherein the end device 13 is subsequently a smartphone and the low-energy protocol stack comprises the iBeacon software.

1. a) The iBeacon software is installed on a wireless device 10.
2. b) The smartphone is switched on.
3. c) The mobile application 12 can be switched off.
4. d) The Bluetooth communication of the smartphone is switched on.
5. e) The wireless device 10 is powered on.
6. f) The wireless device 10 has data to share with the mobile application 12.
7. g) The wireless device 10 sends a control signal 11 (iBeacon message) and requests the previously paired smartphone to connect.
8. h) The smartphone is moved within range of the device 10 iBeacon.
9. i) The control signal 11 (iBeacon message) opens the mobile application 12.
10. j) The mobile application 12 automatically connects to the wireless device 10.
11. k) The mobile application 12 starts a bi-directional synchronization with the device 10 using GATT services.

For this purpose, the (companion) smartphone is within range of the device 10. The device 10 and the smartphone pair up automatically. The control signal (iBeacon message, broadcast message) is received by the smartphone and interpreted as a command to open the mobile (companion) application 12 . The mobile application 12 is then preferably opened when the control signals 11 are received and automatically connects to the coupled device 10. The mobile application 12 then changes the communication protocol to BLE and initiates GATT services for sending/receiving data with the device 10.

The present invention also relates to the 2 until 9 Arrangement shown, with a device 10 and a mobile Bluetooth-enabled terminal 13 with a mobile application 12. The terminal 13 comprises the low-energy protocol stack and the device 10 comprises a Bluetooth-enabled transmitter/receiver unit comprising the low-energy protocol stack. The advantages resulting from the arrangement have already been described in connection with the method according to the invention, which is why, to avoid repetition, reference is made to the relevant passages.

The device 10 is preferably an inhaler which is designed and set up for inhaling an active ingredient released from an inhalation medium. According to the invention, the core functions of such an inhaler can be conveniently controlled and are set up more safely via the mobile terminal device 13 . The device 10 designed as an inhaler is set up such that, for example, operating data can be transmitted wirelessly between the inhaler and the terminal 13 or the mobile application 12 and/or such settings on the inhaler can be made or specified via the mobile terminal 12 .

All of the embodiments previously described in connection with the device 10 are also applicable to other BLE-enabled and compatible products, such as e.g. As headphones, electric toothbrushes, medical equipment or the like applicable.

QUOTES INCLUDED IN DESCRIPTION

This list of documents cited by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Patent Literature Cited

• US 2017/0354183 A1 [0004]

Claims (16)

Method for establishing a wireless connection between at least one device (10) and a mobile Bluetooth-capable end device (13) comprising a mobile application (12), the low-energy protocol stack comprising, the mobile application (12) for communication (15) is formed and set up between the device (10) and the Bluetooth-enabled terminal (13), wherein the device (10) comprises a Bluetooth-capable transceiver unit comprising the low-energy protocol stack, and the transceiver unit is designed and set up to transmit/receive data within a defined transmission/reception range (14), including the steps: repetitive transmission of a control signal (11) by the transmitter/receiver unit of the device (10), Automatic connection of the transmitter/receiver unit to the terminal (13) according to the low-energy protocol stack as soon as the Bluetooth-enabled terminal (13) is within the transmission/reception range (14), Automatic opening of the mobile application (12) on the terminal (13) using the control signal (11) in order to set up communication (15) between the mobile application (12) and the device (10), provided that the control signal (11) is Terminal (13) was received. procedure after claim 1 , characterized in that before the initial automatic connection of the transceiver to the terminal (13), the terminal (13) and the device (10) were coupled to one another (16) in a previously performed authentication step. procedure after claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that the mobile application (12) is opened by means of the control signal (11), in particular when the mobile application (12) on the terminal (13) is completely closed. Method according to one or more of the Claims 1 until 3 , characterized in that the sending/receiving of the control signal (11) takes place on the basis of a Bluetooth profile from the low-energy protocol stack, in particular GATT. Method according to one or more of the Claims 1 until 4 , characterized in that the communication (15) between the device (10) and the mobile application (12) is based on a wireless connection between the device (10) and the terminal (13), in particular on a radio standard, such as . B. Bluetooth, WLAN, ZigBee, NFC, RFID, Wibree, WiMAX, mobile radio. Method according to one or more of the Claims 1 until 5 , characterized in that the mobile application (12) opened by the control signal (11) executes one or more of the following measures: - comparison of operating data of the device (10) between an actual value and a target value, - execution of the device (10) according to their specification, provided that the actual value corresponds to the target value of the operating data, - the device (10) receiving operating data with the target value from the mobile application (12) and/or from the terminal ( 13) if the actual value deviates from the target value of the operating data in order to bring about the target value of the operating data on the device (10), - blocking of device-related actions if the actual value differs from the target value of the operating data deviates in order to prevent the device (10) from being used as intended, - documenting the actual value and/or the target value of the operating data in the mobile application (12) and/or on the device (10). procedure after claim 6 , characterized in that the operating data comprises firmware data for carrying out intended actions on the device (10). Procedure according to one of Claims 1 until 7 , characterized in that the device (10) is controlled wirelessly via the terminal (13) by means of the mobile application (12). Arrangement for establishing a wireless connection between at least one device (10) and a mobile Bluetooth-enabled terminal (13) comprising a mobile application (12), the low-energy protocol stack comprising, the mobile application (12) for communication (15) is formed and set up between the device (10) and the Bluetooth-enabled terminal (13), wherein the device (10) comprises a Bluetooth-enabled transmission/reception unit comprising the low-energy protocol stack, and the transmission/reception unit is formed and set up , to send/receive data within a defined transmission/reception range (14), and wherein the transmission/reception unit is set up to carry out repetitive transmission of a control signal (11) in order to automatically communicate with the transmission/reception unit with the end device (13 ) to connect according to the low-energy protocol stack as soon as the Bluetooth-enabled terminal device (13) is within the transmission/reception range (14). ndet, and is formed by means of the Steuersig nals (11) to automatically open the mobile application (12) on the terminal (13) in order to set up communication (15) between the mobile application (12) and the device (10), provided the control signal (11) is transmitted by the terminal (13) was received. arrangement according to claim 9 , characterized in that the device (10) and / or the terminal (13) are designed and set up, before the first automatic connection of the transmitter / receiver unit with the terminal (13) the terminal (13) and the device (10) to be coupled to each other for authentication (16). arrangement according to claim 9 or 10 , characterized in that the transmission / reception unit is designed and set up that the transmission / reception of the control signal (11) takes place on the basis of a Bluetooth profile from the low-energy protocol stack, in particular GATT. Arrangement according to one or more of the claims 9 until 11 , characterized in that the device (10) and the terminal (13) are designed and set up to communicate with each other on the basis of a wireless connection (15), in particular on a radio standard, such as. B. Bluetooth, WLAN, ZigBee, NFC, RFID, Wibree, WiMAX, mobile radio. Arrangement according to one or more of the claims 9 until 12 , characterized in that the mobile application (12) is designed and set up to carry out one or more of the following measures: - comparing the operating data of the device (10) between an actual value and a target value, - executing the device (10 ) according to their specification, provided that the actual value corresponds to the target value of the operating data, - the device (10) receives operating data with the target value from the mobile application (12) and/or from the terminal (13) if the actual value deviates from the target value of the operating data in order to bring about the target value of the operating data on the device (10), - blocking of device-related actions if the actual value differs from the target value of the operating data, to prevent the device (10) from being used as intended, - documenting the actual value and/or the target value of the operating data in the mobile application (12) and/or on the device (10). arrangement according to Claim 13 , characterized in that the operating data of the device (10) firmware data for performing intended actions on the device (10). Arrangement according to one or more of the claims 9 until 14 , characterized in that the terminal (13) is designed and set up to control the device (10) by means of the mobile application (12). Arrangement according to one of claims 9 until 15 , characterized in that the device (10) is an inhaler designed for inhaling an active ingredient released from an inhalation medium.

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