SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ACCESSING AND CONTROLLING DEVICES AND SERVICES

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims priority to US application No. 62/566,818 filed on October 2, 2017 and to US application No. 62/654,262 filed on April 6, 2018. These documents are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for accessing devices and services. In particular, the present disclosure relates to systems and methods for accessing, controlling, updating and monitoring devices and services in an environment.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0003] The interconnection of devices offers new possibilities.

[0004] One drawback is the rules applied to devices are fixed and are set when a system is installed as it relates to supervision, activation and control. In general those rules are dictated by regulations and are either set for constant supervision, arm away and arm stay. One problem is new connected devices, an API or services can't change those rules dynamically. Also, and as an example, another problem is a user can't have different rules for the supervision, actions and control between when they leave for work for a day, leave to the cottage for the weekend, or leave on a vacation for a few weeks. Further, some devices installed in a facility may not be updated remotely. For example, for some alarm systems, a technician has to go to the customer's house to update the firmware of the alarm system, to install and connect new hardware, etc.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0005] In some embodiments, a method of providing access to devices and associated services is described herein. The method includes identifying devices in an environment; connecting the identified devices; determining services associated to the identified devices; and monitoring the identified devices and associated services.

[0006] In some embodiments, a system for providing access to devices and associated services is described herein. The system includes a controller for detecting and identifying devices in an environment, wherein the controller is further configured to connect to the identified devices, determine services associated to the identified devices, and provide access to the identified devices and associated services.

[0007] In some embodiments, a method of controlling and monitoring, through a communication network, an existing electronic device at a user's location is described herein. The method includes integrating the existing electronic device into a predetermined platform; detecting at least one existing sensor associated to the existing electronic device; optionally installing at least one further sensor into the existing electronic device; connecting the existing electronic device to the predetermined platform through the communication network; and sensing or monitoring at least one sensor associated to the existing electronic device.

[0008] In some embodiments, a method of controlling and monitoring, through a communication network, an electronic device at a user location is described herein. The method includes detecting at least one sensor associated to the existing electronic device; optionally installing at least one further sensor into the existing electronic device; connecting the existing electronic device to the predetermined platform through the communication network; and sensing and monitoring at least one sensor associated to the existing electronic device.

[0009] In some embodiments, a system for communicating, controlling and monitoring, through a communication network, an existing electronic device at a user's location, the system comprising: a control unit for: integrating an existing electronic device into a predetermined platform; detecting at least the existing sensor associated to the existing electronic device; optionally installing at least one further sensor into the existing electronic device; connecting the existing electronic device to the predetermined platform through the communication network; and sensing or monitoring at least one sensor associated to the existing electronic device.

[00010] In some embodiments, a method of controlling and monitoring, through a communication network, a controller at a user's location is described herein. The method includes integrating the controller into a predetermined platform; detecting at least one device connected to the controller on the predetermined platform; optionally installing at least one further device into the controller; connecting the controller to the predetermined platform through the communication network, such that the communication network is a secured direct communication interface for exchanging messages and requests between the controller and the predetermined platform; and sensing or monitoring at least one of the device or further device on the predetermined platform.

[00011] In some embodiments, a method of creating and monitoring a scenario comprising a plurality of scenes on a predetermined platform through a communication network, the predetermined platform being connected to devices comprising smart devices and analog devices is described herein. The method includes configuring/creating a scene the scene comprising at least one trigger associated with a device monitored by the platform through the communication network and at least one action to be performed when the scene is triggered; configuring/creating the at least one trigger associated to the scene; configuring/creating the at least one action associated to the scene; and activating the scenario such as the scenario includes the scene.

[00012] In some embodiments, a method of configuring/monitoring scenarios on a communication network. The method includes determining/choosing/configuring a preset scenario, wherein the scenario comprises at least one scene having at least one trigger and at least one action; monitoring a trigger associated with the scenario; and performing the action associated with the scenario when the trigger is activated. [00013] In some embodiments, a device for creating and monitoring a scenario comprising a plurality of scenes on a predetermined platform through a communication network is described herein. The device includes a communication interface for monitoring and controlling devices connected to the platform; at least one user interface for receiving user input and providing indication to the user; a memory; and a processor operatively coupled to the memory, the one or more user interfaces, and the communication interface, the processor being configured for: configuring/creating a scene the scene comprising at least one trigger associated with a device monitored by the platform through the communication network and at least one action to be performed when the scene is triggered; configuring/creating the at least one trigger associated to the scene; configuring/creating the at least one action associated to the scene; and activating the scenario such as the scenario includes the scene.

[00014] In some embodiments, a method for creating/activating a community call for an action based on a predetermined trigger is described herein. The method includes sending a request to a contact to ask them to perform an action; sensing a trigger associated with a device monitored by the platform through a communication network; inviting the contact to the platform once the trigger is activated; informing the contact of the action to take after the trigger is activated; and monitoring status of the action undertaken by the contact.

[00015] In some embodiments, a controller for providing access to and control of at least one device located at a customer premise, the at least one device being coupled to the controller through a communication interface, the controller is described herein. The controller includes at least one hardware driver having a corresponding software driver/module, a communication protocol, and corresponding to a particular communication interface; a memory unit for storing at least one protocol and at least one application programming interface (APIs) and an API specification information corresponding to devices; and a processing unit in communication with the hardware drivers and the memory unit, the processing unit adapted to: configure the at least one hardware driver using the software driver for transmitting and receiving messages over a corresponding communication interface using the protocol associated with the software driver, for a particular device, determine whether the device is a smart device or analog/non-smart device; transmit and receive messages over a communication interface to a desired device, such that: when the desired device is a smart device, the processing unit: selects an API corresponding to the desired device, queries the desired device, transmits and retrieves API information from the desired device in accordance with the selected API; and when the device is an analog/non-smart device, the processing unit queries a retrofit module through a retrofit communication interface such that the retrofit module queries/monitors/controls/receives messages from the desired device.

[00016] In some embodiments, a method for controlling a device on a network is described herein. The method includes requiring an action to be taken on the device; forwarding a control message to a controller, wherein the controller is connected to smart devices and analog devices; determining whether the device is a smart device or an analog device; converting, by the controller, the control message into an analog control message if the device is an analog device; and forwarding the control message or the analog control message to the device for controlling the device.

[00017] In some embodiments, a method of providing a contact access to a user location having one or more devices coupled to a platform over a communications network, the one or more devices comprising smart devices and/or analog devices is described herein. The method includes activating a scenario comprising one or more scenes on the platform; sensing a trigger associated with the one or more devices by the platform over the communication network; sending a request by the platform over the communication network to the contact to perform an action; receiving a response by the platform over the communication network from the contact; and based on the response, providing access to the user location to the contact. [00018] In some embodiments, a system for providing a contact access to a user location having one or more devices, the one or more devices comprising smart devices and/or analog devices is described herein. The system includes a platform device having a processor, a controller, a non- transitory processor-readable storage medium communicatively coupled to the processor, and a communication interface communicatively coupled to the processor, the platform device communicatively coupled to the one or more devices via the communication interface, the processor configured to: activate a scenario comprising a plurality of scenes over the communication network; sense a trigger associated with the one or more devices by receiving a signal from the one or more devices over the communication network; send a request through the communication network to the contact to perform an action; receive a response over the communication network from the contact; and based on the response, provide access to the user location to the contact.

[00019] In some embodiments, a method of sharing information of a user location to partners of a platform, the user location having one or more devices coupled to the platform over a communication network, the one or more devices comprising smart devices and/or analog devices is described herein. The method includes receiving information by the platform from the one or more devices over the communications network, the information comprising at least one of use information and physical location information of at least one of the one or more devices at the user location; analyzing the information by the platform to determine preferences of one or more users of the at least one of the one or more devices; based on the analyzing, determining, by the platform, the partners having goods and/or services that align with the preferences of the one or more users of the at least one of the one or more devices; and sharing the information by the platform with the partners over the communication network.

[00020] In some embodiments, a system for sharing information of a user location to partners, the user location having one or more devices, the one or more devices comprising smart devices and/or analog devices is described herein. The system includes a platform device having a processor, a controller, a non-transitory processor-readable storage medium communicatively coupled to the processor, and a communication interface communicatively coupled to the processor, the platform device communicatively coupled to the one or more devices via the communication interface, the processor configured to: receive information from the one or more devices over the communications network, the information comprising at least one of use information and physical location information of at least one of the one or more devices at the user location; analyze the information to determine preferences of one or more users of the one or more devices; based on the analyzing, determine the partners having goods and/or services that align with the preferences of the one or more users of the one or more devices; and share the information with the partners over the communication network.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[00021] Figure 1A is a perspective view of a controller according to one example.

[00022] Figure 1 B is a perspective view of a controller according to one example.

[00023] Figure 2 shows a diagram of services provided by the methods and systems described in the present disclosure according to one example.

[00024] Figure 3 shows a network platform of the present disclosure according to one example.

[00025] Figure 4 shows a diagram of services provided by the methods and systems described in the present disclosure according to one example.

[00026] Figure 5 shows a diagram of services (video services) provided by the methods and systems described in the present disclosure according to one example. [00027] Figure 6 shows a diagram of a network platform provided by the methods and systems described in the present disclosure according to one example.

[00028] Figure 7 shows a description of a network platform provided by the methods and systems described in the present disclosure according to one example.

[00029] Figure 8 shows a diagram of a network platform provided by the methods and systems described in the present disclosure according to one example.

[00030] Figure 9 shows a description of the infrastructure, video server, front end, cloud API and controller of the methods and systems described in the present disclosure according to one example.

[00031] Figure 10 shows a description of retrofit, connect air (a type of controller) and NOC of the methods and systems described in the present disclosure according to one example.

[00032] Figure 1 1 shows a diagram of a platform provided by the methods and systems described in the present disclosure according to one example.

[00033] Figure 12 shows a description of server access and availability of the methods and systems described in the present disclosure according to one example.

[00034] Figure 13 shows a diagram of controllers described in the present disclosure according to one example.

[00035] Figure 14 shows a description of controllers according to one example.

[00036] Figure 15 shows embodiments of methods and systems described in the present disclosure according to one example.

[00037] Figure 16 shows a description of the interface described in the present disclosure according to one example. [00038] Figure 17 shows a diagram of a platform provided by the methods and systems described in the present disclosure according to one example.

[00039] Figure 18 shows a description of the described in the present disclosure according to one example.

[00040] Figure 19 shows a diagram of a platform provided by the methods and systems described in the present disclosure according to one example.

[00041] Figure 20 shows a diagram of a platform provided by the methods and systems described in the present disclosure according to one example.

[00042] Figure 21 shows a diagram of a platform provided by the methods and systems described in the present disclosure according to one example.

[00043] Figure 22 shows a diagram of a platform provided by the methods and systems described in the present disclosure according to one example.

[00044] Figure 23 shows a diagram of a platform provided by the methods and systems described in the present disclosure according to one example.

[00045] Figure 25 shows a diagram of a network provided by the methods and systems described in the present disclosure according to one example.

[00046] Figures 26-33 shows parts of the Figure 25.

[00047] Figures 34 to 81 show diagrams of flowcharts, platforms and hardware provided by the methods and systems described in the present disclosure according to examples.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

[00048] A method of providing access to devices and associated services, includes identifying devices in an environment; connecting the identified devices; determining services associated to the identified devices; and monitoring the identified devices and associated services.

[00049] For example, the services and devices are shown in the figures provided in the present disclosure. In particular, the services are shown in Figure 2. [00050] The methods and system provided in the present disclosure provide an open and evolutive loT ecosystem and platform. They allow cross- selling between different service providers. They also allow advanced scenarios of interactions between the connected devices.

[00051] The method also includes controlling the identified devices and the associated services. The method further includes updating the identified devices and the associated services.

[00052] The method further includes programming the identified devices and the associated services.

[00053] The associated services comprise one or more: supervision services, concierge services, medical services, services SDK allowing scenario services to be developed for partners in different industries. Other services are shown in the figures provided in the present disclosure and may also include access control management, geofencing, time and attendance and guard services.

[00054] A system for providing access to devices and associated services includes a controller for detecting and identifying devices in an environment, wherein the controller is further configured to connect to the identified devices, determine services associated to the identified devices, and provide access to the identified devices and associated services. The controller can control the identified devices and the associated services. The controller can update the identified devices and the associated services.

[00055] The controller can program the identified devices and the associated services. The associated services includes one or more: supervision services, concierge services, medical services, services SDK and scenario services.

[00056] The controller can fully work in offline mode. Commands from a mobile application and local applications can be sent to the controller. [00057] The controller can send data to servers through communication channels in order to prevent data loss and improve reliability.

[00058] The controller can be multi protocol. The controller can talk with devices from various manufacturers.

[00059] The controller can be managed remotely through a mobile application and the use of cloud servers. The controller can be managed remotely through use of cloud servers.

[00060] The controller can be accessed remotely for support purpose.

[00061] Access to the controller can require approval from a user that is physically present in front of the controller or other systems interfaces.

[00062] Security includes:

• DDOS

• Access Notifications

• Email Validation

• Session Auditing

• Password strength

• VPN

• Access Control

• Access level

• Token

• Backup

• Session Management

• Behaviour Pattern Analysis

• Geo Fencing

• SSL

• Picture

• Activity auditing

• Social login

• Geo location

• Internal Encryption

• Address Validation

• ReCaptcha

• Login failures control

• Rules

• IP Filtering

• Digital ID

• Session Scalability

• Logs

• U2F Verification • Auto Scalability

• Phone Validation

• Brower Connectivity

• One time Password

Notifications include:

• By Date

• By Devices

• Service

• Mobile App

• Web App

• Search

• Screen App

• By users

Computers include :

• Modular

• Reset Button

• Motion senor

• Temperature senor

• Reboot button

• Speaker

• Buzzer

• Touch screen

• Tamper switch

• Keyboard

• Certifications

• Humidity sensor

• Light sensor

• Power

• Camera

• Gyroscope

• Notifications LED

• Powerful

• Proximity sensor

• Accelerometer

• Fingerprint

• Microphone

• Barometric sensor

• Compass

• Update over the air

Ports include:

• 802.15.4

• IR

• DB9 • Bluetooth

• Lutron

• 915 Mhz

• Weave

• RJ45

• 4G

• ZigBee

• LVDS

• LoRa

• USB

• PCI-Express

• Daughter boards

• Thread

• 433 Mhz

• Micro HDMI

• USB-C

• E-SATA

• RFID

Devices include:

• Groups

• Access rights

• Devices Auditing

• Devices list

• Devices Information

• Devices Type

Users include:

• Name

• Customers list

• Email address

• Picture

• Users list

• Users auditing

• Groups

• Phone number

Scenarios include:

• Triggers

• Actions

• Date & Time

• Behaviour

• Event

• Grouped actions

• By users

• By devices

• By event

• Events

• By locations • By status

Geolocation includes:

• History

• By Rooms

• Beacon

• GPS

• By level

• By properties

Medical includes:

• Inventory monitoring

• Health monitoring

• Elders tracking

• Medication tracking

Supervision includes:

• Intrusion monitoring

• Panic button monitoring

• Camera monitoring

• Flood monitoring

• Inventory monitoring

• Child tracking

• Elder tracking

• Temperature monitoring

• Access control management

• Fire monitoring

• Access control monitoring

Filter menu includes:

• Devices

• Sub location

• Properties

Flashbar includes:

• Notifications

• Problems

• Plugins

• Events

• Alerts

Activity Menu • Priorities

• Events

• Problems

• Alerts

Main Menu includes:

• Components

Billing:

• Debit card

• Recurring

• Credit card

• loT Market Place

• Transfer

• Check

Communications includes:

• SMS

• IP

• Screen

• 2 Ways

• Video

• Zigbee

• Desktop

• Z-Wave

• 4G

• Bluetooth

• Mobile

• NFC

• VoIP

[00063] For example, a method of controlling and monitoring, through a communication network, an existing electronic device at a user location is provided herein. For example, the existing electronic can be an electronic device that is installed at a customer's house, such as an alarm system or a smart tv, etc.

[00064] The method includes integrating the existing electronic device into a platform as described in this document, such as an online monitoring platform. [00065] For example, a technician can come into the house of the customer to install a new controller. Figure 76 shows a diagram of a communication network that can installed by the technician. Referring to Figure 76, the technician will install the 2Klick controller and 2Klic retrofit in the customer's house. The 2Klick controller can be configured to communicate directly with the 2Klic Cloud. Devices, such as phones, tablets and computers can directly access the 2Klic Cloud.

[00066] It is to be noted that technicians can face multiple problems during a smart system installation at their customer's house, such as setup of routers to access the controller from internet. Most of the time, they have to setup some open doors to access the controller remotely. This may expose customer to potential hacking attacks, as there are servers that are dedicated to scan all IP addresses and ports to find open gateways and find interesting opportunities to hack.

[00067] Therefore, to prevent computer hacks, the technician can configure the controller to report itself to 2KLIC Cloud. This way, 2KLIC will always know how to contact it and forward authorized requests to this controller. The controller will centralize all internal communications through its unique secured communications with 2KLIC Cloud.

[00068] For example, as shown in Fig. 76, the retrofit device can allow a controller to communicate to non-smart/analog devices. The retrofit device allows a controller to communicate to non-smart/analog devices. So, on the one hand, the retrofit device is connected to the controller (for example, by Zwave or RS232); on the other hand, the retrofit device is physically connected to a non-intelligent/analog device. For example, the retrofit system is connected to the non-intelligent device, the retrofit system can be directly connected to the electrical system of the non-intelligent device to detect/control the electrical system and the variations of voltage and/or current of the sensors/detectors of the non-intelligent device. For example, the retrofit device can detect that the voltage of an infrared motion sensor changes from 2 volts to 0 volts and send a message to the controller to notify it of this change. [00069] For example, when a technician comes into the house of the customer to install a new controller for the customer, the technician will integrate an existing electronic device, such as a thermostat control system, to the new platform, for example, by loading a computer program such (a linux program for configuring the new platform) into the thermostat control system.

[00070] Once the platform has been integrated, using the new platform, the technician can now detect sensors and devices that were already installed at the customer's house. For example, the technician can also install new sensors and devices into the platform.

[00071] Once the platform has been integrated, the technician can connect to thermostat control system using the new platform through the Internet network at the house. Once connected, the platform can now sense and monitor sensors and devices installed at the customer's house. For example, it is now possible to invoice the customer through the new platform according to a specific revenue model between partners.

[00072] A method of controlling and monitoring through a platform, such an online monitoring system, an electronic device, such as a controller, located at a customer's house, includes: detecting sensors associated to the controller; optionally installing at least one further sensor into the controller; connecting the controller to the online monitoring system through a communication network; sensing/monitoring at least one sensor associated to the controller; and invoicing the customer through the online monitoring system.

[00073] For example, a method of controlling and monitoring, through a communication network, an existing electronic device at a user's location is provided herein. The method can includes integrating the existing electronic device into a predetermined platform; detecting at least one existing sensor associated to the existing electronic device; optionally installing at least one further sensor into the existing electronic device; connecting the existing electronic device to the predetermined platform through the communication network; andsensing or monitoring at least one sensor associated to the existing electronic device.

[00074] For example, the act of integrating can include uploading from or downloading into the existing electronic device a program (a linux program) associated with the predetermined platform. For example, the act of integrating can include integrating a configuration chip into the existing electronic device. For example, the predetermined platform is an online monitoring and controlling system.

[00075] A method of controlling and monitoring, through a communication network, an electronic device at a user location is provided herein. For example, the method can include: detecting at least one sensor associated to the existing electronic device; optionally installing at least one further sensor into the existing electronic device; connecting the existing electronic device to the predetermined platform through the communication network; and sensing and monitoring at least one sensor associated to the existing electronic device.

[00076] For example, the method can further include setting up a controller to report itself directly to the predetermined platform, such that the predetermined platform and the controller have a secured direct communication interface for exchanging messages and requests to this controller.

[00077] For example, the method can further include centralizing, at the controller, all internal communications and messages to the predetermined platform.

[00078] For example, the method can further include sending all internal communications and messages to the predetermined platform through the secured direct communication interface between the controller and the predetermined platform.

For example, the method can further include invoicing the user through the predetermined platform. For example, the method can further include communicating with the user through the predetermined platform. For example, the method can connecting, through a communication network, a retrofit device to the existing electronic device; and detecting at least one sensor associated with the retrofit device.

[00079] For example, the method can further include sensing or monitoring the at least one sensor associated with the retrofit device.

[00080] For example, the electronic device is a smart device. For example, the smart device can be a Zwave device, Bluetooth device and/or Wifi device. For example, the method of claim 24 further comprising invoicing said user through the predetermined platform.

[00081] For example, as shown in Fig. 76, the retrofit device allows a controller to communicate to non-smart/analog devices. So, on the one hand, the retrofit device is connected to the controller (for example, by Zwave or RS232); on the other hand, the retrofit device is physically connected to a non- intelligent/analog device. For example, the retrofit system is connected to the non-intelligent device, the retrofit system can be directly connected to the electrical system of the non-intelligent device to detect/control the electrical system and the variations of voltage and/or current of the sensors/detectors of the non-intelligent device. For example, the retrofit device can detect that the voltage of an infrared motion sensor changes from 2 volts to 0 volts and send a message to the controller to notify it of this change.

[00082] For example, the controller and/or the retrofit device can have store a logic/conversion table for converting signals sent by an analog device into a smart message that can be understood. For example, the logic/conversion table for corresponding to a device (such as a motion sensor) connected to the retrofit device can notify/teach that a change from 2 volts to 0 volts means that someone walked in the perimeter of the motion sensor. This allows the controller and/or the retrofit device to possess a level of intelligence when reading signals/messages from analog. no-smart device. Another example would be to have a retrofit device connected to a non-intelligent oven and to be able to send commands for setting the cooking temperature of the oven; for example (a signal commend represented by 00X1 could be sent by the retrofit device to the over for setting the temperature to 350 degree Celsius; and 00X2 for for 400 degree).

[00083] For example, the retrofit device can detect voltage variations of an analog device, such as a motion detector. For example, these variations can be sent at the ports of the retrofit device by the corresponding analog device. For example, there are ports retrofitted in some models of the controller and there is also a retrofit device that only manages these ports. For example, the retrofit ports are able to send messages to analog device (such as 00X1 , 00X2, etc). For example, it is the chipset attached to the ports that will do the work, on firmware order. For example, the controllers can include up to 5 retrofit ports; 1 outgoing and 4 incoming. For example, the retrofit device can include 10 ports; 9 inbound, 1 outbound and can communicate with other retrofit devices to add additional ports

[00084] A system for communicating, controlling and monitoring, through a communication network, an existing electronic device at a user's location is provided herein. For example, the system can include a processing unit for: integrating an existing electronic device into a predetermined platform; detecting at least the existing sensor associated to the existing electronic device; optionally installing at least one further sensor into the existing electronic device; connecting the existing electronic device to the predetermined platform through the communication network; and sensing or monitoring at least one sensor associated to the existing electronic device.

[00085] A method of controlling and monitoring, through a communication network, a controller at a user's location is provided herein. The method includes: integrating the controller into a predetermined platform; detecting at least one device connected to the controller on the predetermined platform; optionally installing at least one further device into the controller; connecting the controller to the predetermined platform through the communication network, such that the communication network is a secured direct communication interface for exchanging messages and requests between the controller and the predetermined platform; and sensing or monitoring at least one of the device or further device on the predetermined platform.

[00086] Figure 76 shows a diagram of a communication network at a user's location where the controller, the retrofit unit and various devices are installed. The user's location may include any physical location including but not limited to a house, a car, a vehicle and the user's body. For instance, in some examples, the controller may be incorporated into wearable device that is worn by a user.

[00087] In one example, Figure 80 shows a diagram of the installation process of a controller at a user's premise (e.g. house), and the various communication channels after the controller has been installed. Figure 81 shows a flowchart of the installation process. Figure 77 shows an exemplary embodiment of the location of the controller and various device inside a user's home.

[00088] For example, a method of creating and monitoring a scenario comprising a plurality of scenes on a predetermined platform through a communication network is provided herein. The predetermined platform can be connected to devices comprising smart devices and analog device. For example, the method includes: configuring/creating a scene the scene comprising at least one trigger associated with a device monitored by the platform through the communication network and at least one action to be performed when the scene is triggered; configuring/creating the at least one trigger associated to the scene; configuring/creating the at least one action associated to the scene; and activating the scenario such as the scenario includes the scene. The method also includes selecting the device on which a scene or trigger is associated.

[00089] For example, the predetermined platform can be a control and/or monitoring system that is accessible online via a website. For example, the monitoring system can be accessible via an app downloaded on a cell phone. For example, the predetermined platform can provide a list of devices connected thereto.

[00090] For example, the predetermined platform can monitor a status of a device connected to the predetermined platform and create a scenario associated with the device. For example, the scene can indicate the status of the scenario. A status label associated to the scenario can be displayed on the predetermined platform or on the mobile application on the user cellphone.

[00091] For example, the predetermined platform can initiate an action when the scene of the scenario is triggered. For example, an alert can be sent to a user when the scenario is triggered.

[00092] For example, a method of configuring/monitoring scenarios on a communication network is provided herein. For example, the method can include determining/choosing/configuring a preset scenario, wherein the scenario comprises at least one scene having at least one trigger and at least one action; monitoring a trigger associated with the scenario; and performing the action associated with the scenario when the trigger is activated. For example, the method can enable a following scene, when the current scene is triggered.

[00093] For example, a device for creating and monitoring a scenario comprising a plurality of scenes on a predetermined platform through a communication network is provided herein. For example, the device includes a communication interface for monitoring and controlling devices connected to the platform; one or more user interfaces for receiving user input and providing indication to the user; a memory; and a processor. The processor can be operatively coupled to the memory, the one or more user interfaces, and the communication interface.

[00094] The processor can be configured for: configuring/creating a scene the scene comprising at least one trigger associated with a device monitored by the platform through the communication network and at least one action to be performed when the scene is triggered; configuring/creating the at least one trigger associated to the scene; configuring/creating the at least one action associated to the scene; and activating the scenario such as the scenario includes the scene.

[00095] Today, we can connect almost anything; services, applications, and devices. Connecting is an excellent opportunity to perform automated operations and to improve lifestyle and business. To do so, we designed an application capable of managing this endless environment. The present feature will animate it, make it autonomous.

[00096] Integrated into an API, to connect to any digital feature, the scenarios feature captures the available options to offer them as triggers and/or actions to the user.

[00097] For example, when you create a scenario, a choice of preset scenarios is offered, or you can start a brand new one. Every scenario includes at least one scene which includes one or a set of triggers and one or a set of actions. As soon as one of the triggers is activated, all the actions are performed. When this scene is triggered, a following scene can be enabled.

[00098] Figures 33 to 50 generally described how to create and setup scenes, triggers and scenarios. For example, Figures 33 and 50 describes a flowchart for configuring scenarios. For example, Figures 34 to 50 show how scenarios can be configured through a online computer platform and through a mobile device. Cards associated to the scenarios are also shown on Figures 34 to 50. Configuration of scenario settings, including descriptions, permissions and scenes are also shown on Figures 34 to 50. For example, on Figure 41 , there is shown a list of devices where scenes and scenarios can be configured.

[00099] As devices, the scenarios are represented as a card on an application. It includes the icon, the color status, the title, an extra line of information, and a contextual line for status description. Those cards are seen in the scenario manager, under settings. When a card is clicked, the scenario's settings are showing up to customize them. [000100] We can use use filters to screen scenarios, based on properties with their locations, and on scenarios types. Those types should be coming from a label input in the scenario's description.

[000101] Since the user can have multiple scenarios actioning the same devices, it may be able to get a prioritization system to perform a choice of two opposite actions that could happen at the same time. To do so, a sorting mechanism will just organize a single list of scenarios. The scenarios that are on the top of others can have priority. This will push to the top list all important scenarios. Example; a scenario whose purpose is to protect your life should be more important than a scenario to protect your property.

[000102] A scenario can include a plurality of scenes. A method of creating and monitoring a scenario can be run on a predetermined platform, such as an online monitoring system, through a communication network. The online monitoring system can be connected to devices including smart devices and analog (non-smart) devices. For example, the method includes configuring/creating a scene. A scene can include triggers associated with a device monitored by the online monitoring system through the communication network and actions to be performed when the scene is triggered (such as when the triggers is activated).

[000103] For example, the method includes configuring/creating triggers associated to the scene. For example, the method includes configuring/creating actions associated to the scene. For example, the method includes activating the scenario such as the scenario includes the scene.

[000104] For example, the scene indicates the status of the scenario on the online monitoring system. For example, the online monitoring platform can show a status of the scenario. For example, an action can be initiated when the trigger of a scene is activated.

[000105] A method of configuring/monitoring scenarios on a communication network can include: determining/choosing/configuring a preset scenario, which includes at least one scene having at least one trigger and at least one action; monitoring a trigger associated with the scenario; an performing the action associated with the scenario when the trigger is activated. For example, a following scene can be active with the trigger of the current scene is activated.

[000106] When you create a scenario, a choice of preset scenarios is offered, or you can start a brand new one. Every scenario includes at least one scene which includes one or a set of triggers and one or a set of actions. As soon as one of the triggers is activated, all the actions are performed. When this scene is triggered, a following scene can be enabled.

[000107] Creating scenarios will animate the manual features of 2KLIC Apps in almost full customizable experience for the users and partners. Able to add behaviors, actions, reactions. Based on this tool, it should be able to add an Al to manage and hopefully create next version of scenarios. The scenarios must be flexible enough to fit most types of environments and situations, in the simplest way possible.

[000108] As devices, the scenarios are represented as a card on 2KLIC applications. It includes the icon, the color status, the title, an extra line of information, and a contextual line for status description. Those cards are seen in the scenario manager, under settings. When a card is clicked, the scenario's settings are showing up to customize them.

[000109] We'll use filters to screen scenarios, based on properties with their locations, and on scenarios types. Those types should be coming from a label input in the scenario's description.

[000110] Since the user can have multiple scenarios actioning the same devices, it is needed to get a prioritization system to perform a choice of two opposite actions that could happen at the same time. To do so, a sorting mechanism will just organize a single list of scenarios. The scenarios that are on the top of others will have priority. This will push to the top list all important scenarios. [000111] Example; a scenario whose purpose is to protect your life should be more important than a scenario to protect your property.

[000112] How the applications can have a card system. Each scenario is represented as a card.

[000113] Add a scenario

[000114] From the body of My scenarios page, the user can create a scenario by clicking on the plus button. The right panel will display all options to create a new scenario; blank, based on an existing one or a preset scenario.

[000115] Description

[000116] The user will have to define the status, give a name, an optional description, and an icon for the activation of the scenario.

[000117] Scene

[000118] The scenarios must be flexible enough to fit most types of environments. To do so, the scenario will be articulated in scenes. Those scenes will themselves include triggers and actions to perform. A scenario can have any number of scenes. The scene also includes a title, if more than one scene.

[000119] A scene could reflect the status of the scenario by becoming light green if the scenario is actually running and is at this step.

[000120] Timeline

[000121] The scenarios will follow a dynamic virtual timeline, based on scenes. Those scenes will include triggers and actions to perform. The scenarios will start with a single scene. A scenario can have any number of scenes. From this first scene, there will be one or many possible child scenes, giving the chance to have different levels of flow. Having different levels of flow enables the capability to have a part of the scenario to wait for another trigger, while the other part can behave differently. Example; if a scene is dedicated to wait for a trigger, the other scene can deactivate the complete scenario with another trigger. All following scenes will be dependant on their previous scene process to perform their own, and so on.

[000122] Live operations

[000123] A scene will reflect the status of the scenario by becoming light green if the scenario is actually running.

[000124] Add a scene

[000125] From a plus button, on the timeline, another scene can be added. As scenarios, it can be a blank scene, based on an existing scene, or a preset scene. This new scene will be added just at the position where the plus has been pressed, which could be between 2 scenes, or just after one.

[000126] Trigger

[000127] The triggers included in each scene are any kind of event. An event could be defined as a change of status of something. Since there is a change, it is loggable. If it is loggable, then, the user can use it as a trigger. A scene can include one or many triggers to trigger the actions. The default rule will be that one trigger or another one of the same scene can trigger the actions.

[000128] Action

[000129] The actions included in each scene are any kind of possible automated actions. Those actions, to be possible, must be controlled through the application, to something virtual, like a feature in the app, and/or physical, like activated electrically, electronically, maybe with a motor, or a speaker. A scene can include one or many actions to perform. The default rule will be that all actions of the same scene will be triggered together. Once triggered, the next scene, if existing, will be authorized to trigger.

[000130] Condition

[000131] On every trigger, and every action, the user can add conditions to authorize the trigger or the action to occur. Those conditions are like weather status; if it is sunny, then, this event can occur. [000132] Activation

[000133] To add flexibility, and different kind of behaviors, the scenario will have different levels of activation;

[000134] · The activation of the scene. If deactivated, then nothing will happen from only this scene.

[000135] · The trigger of the scene. If not triggered, then this scene will not perform. It will like in a standby mode, ready to act, based on its triggers.

[000136] Integration of other scenarios and scenes

[000137] To avoid recreating many times the same scene, the user will have the opportunity to integrate scenarios and scenes as triggers or actions for other scenes, from other scenarios.

[000138] Permissions

[000139] In order to be sure that the access of each scenario is secured, we'll add permissions schemas. Some scenarios should be locked by 2KLIC, some by the owners and maybe the administrators.

[000140] Terms and conditions

[000141] If a scenario is preset, we need the user to accept the terms and conditions. It must be part of the process of adding a scenario.

[000142] Scenarios flow and wireframes

[000143] Brief description of the Figure 33 flow diagram

1 . Scene creation- In order to provide the services for the customers, need to set the scenarios in the settings. The scenes of scenario includes the triggers and actions for the occurred event.

2. Add a trigger- For scene creation, add the trigger for the scene and check that it has any conditions to be added, if conditions, add the conditions else check if there any other trigger to be added for the scene if so add the trigger. If there are no other trigger to add then proceed for add an action 3. Add an action- In order to add the action for the scene, check that actions has any conditions to be added, if conditions, add the conditions else check does it have more scenes to add.

4. More scenes- if user need to add more scenes for the scenario, initially check if the scenario has already a scene, if a scene, check is there two daughter scenes, if it has a daughter scene create the scene else check for active scenario

5. Active scenario- If scenario is active then check that card is showing up- means card must be displayed in dashboard. If there is no active scenario then nothing is going to happen in the backend.

6. Display the card- once the card has been displayed in the dashboard, in the backend we need to check did the trigger happen in the first following scene, if so initiate all the actions of the scene.

7. Initiate actions- if the trigger happen in the first following scene then initiate all the actions of this scene and check for conditions if we have conditions then see weather they fulfil the conditions, if not related action will not perform, if we don't have any condition process the actions.

8. Other following scenes- If there are any other following scenes repeat step 7 else end the scene.

[000144] For example, a method for creating/activating a community call for an action based on a predetermined trigger, including: sending a request to a contact to ask them to perform an action; sensing a trigger; inviting the contact to the platform once the trigger is activated; informing the contact of the action to take after the trigger is activated; and monitoring status of the action undertaken by the contact.

[000145] For example, a method for creating/activating a community call for an action based on a predetermined trigger is provided herein. For example, the method can include: sending a request to a contact to ask them to perform an action; sensing a trigger associated with a device monitored by the platform through a communication network; inviting the contact to the platform once the trigger is activated; informing the contact of the action to take after the trigger is activated; and monitoring status of the action undertaken by the contact.

[000146] For example, the community call plugin is a feature integrated in the scenarios. This allows the users to choose the community call as a potential action based on the chosen trigger. This community call plugin will offer the user to send a request his friends, his neighbours or other known people, to require them some custom actions to perform. The guest will then get invited once the trigger activated. They will click on the link, get access to the actions required, take actions, and close the request. All recipients and transmitter will receive notifications about the status. Could be useful for many security events, or mutual aid while someone is away from the property. The fact that this feature is connected to a 2KLIC solution brings a lot of opportunities to help open automatically or remotely doors, watch the action through cameras, or other automation option.

[000147] Figure 50 to 60 shows how to configure community call for an action based on a predetermined trigger. For example, Figure 50 shows a flowchart some of the actions that are undertaken when configuring community, for example, at the settings level, at the device level, and at the NOC level.

[000148] For example, Figures 50 to 60 show how a community can be configured through an online computer platform and through a mobile device. Configuration of community settings, including descriptions, permissions and scenes are also shown on Figures 34 to 50. For example, on Figure 51 , there is shown a list of devices where a community can be configured

[000149] Uses cases

[000150] A user is leaving its property. He might wish to ask friends or neighbors, during his absence, to

o check water valve problem

o give water to plants o take out the trash

o make a security tour

o give access for AirBNB customers or cleaners

o confirm that an important event (Fire?) is happening and notify the emergency service

[000151] A user is home. He might wish to ask friends or neighbors, to o help during his heart attack

[000152] Reverse SSH

[000153] One problem that installers are facing during a smart system installation at their customer's property is the setup of their router to access from internet. Most of the time they have to setup some open doors to access remotely their system. This is a waste of time and a potential risk for the customers to get hacked. Servers are dedicated to scan all IP addresses and ports to find open gateways and maybe find interesting opportunities to hack. https://ipvm.com/reports/hik-hack-map

[000154] One solution is to do not open those doors and ask the controller to report itself to 2KLIC Cloud. This way, 2KLIC will always know how to contact it and forward authorized requests to this controller. The controllerwill centralize all internal communications through its unique secured communications with 2KLIC Cloud. Figure 61 shows a diagram of a communication between the controller and the 2KLIC Cloud. Figure 62 shows a flowchart diagram of the communication between the controller and the 2KLIC Cloud. Figure 63 shows a communication between the controller, devices connected to the controller through various protocols and the cloud. Figure 64 shows a flowchart of the communication between an application and a analog device, showing as well the message and conversion of such message at the controller.

[000155] Communication protocols [000156] The fact to centralize all communications of a property in a single controller have multiple benefits;

cheaper to control many different communications protocols with only one controller rather than one for each

orchestration of all the property from one single system

easier to update to improve protection or other features

cheaper to communicate from outside with only one device rather than many

faster to setup

[000157] Protocols integrated in the controller. Each protocol has its own benefits:

Bluetooth

o common on cellphone and because of its small range of 10m, can be used to localize a device. Integrated in a scenario, it could trigger some actions based on the related device which could be related to a user. Means if you enter a room, it could customize the environment just for you, as example. Or even just unlock and/or open a door

Z-Wave

o commonly used on home automation devices for its low cost, and security

o the range is adapted to a standard common property

o it is also capable of mesh networking to reach some out of range devices or to bypass some concrete walls for example

Wi-Fi

o widely known and commonly installed in many properties today o used as a network backup if network cable if defective or impossible to install RS232

o commonly integrated in many security electronics

Analog

o as many devices, like plugs, switches that are not smart, the fact to connect them to our controllers, enables the transformation into a smart object that we can now control

HDMI

o enables the computer to connect a monitor to display the application. USB keyboard and mouse can be attached to make it autonomous

4G

o in case land internet is not available or crashing a 4G connection will provide full access to the cloud or to the property from internet

[000158] Use case examples of the analog protocol

[000159] The purpose of the analog protocol conversion is to be able to manage basic low power devices as if they were capable to communicate and able to be controllable in case of relays, motors, lights or sound systems.

[000160] Our controller is directly able to detect the state of those devices by controlling their switch or power source. They are plugged to the retrofit ports of the controller.

[000161] A user wants to switch on a light

1 . He presses the related button on the application

2. The message is transmitted to 2KLIC cloud platform

3. It gets authenticated and forwarded to the related property's controller

4. The controller is authenticating the message and converting it into an analog signal

5. The device gets its state changed [000162] A user wants to received notifications when somebody opens a door

1 . The door contact changes its state

2. The controller converts the signal into a digital message and forwards it to 2KLIC cloud platform

3. It gets authenticated and forwarded to the related user's applications

4. The application is authenticating the message and processes it as a notification and a change state of the related button

[000163] Network Operating Center

[000164] The NOC is a web cloud-based application to manage customers, devices, applications, services utilities, municipalities and other entities. It is acting as the backend / back-office for 2KLIC applications. Where 2KLIC applications are operating an Internet of Things environment, the NOC will provide support, extra services, extra applications, management.

[000165] This will be the place where partners will be able to find Big Data like features.

[000166] For example, a manufacturer will be able to get data to analyse about the products they sell. That will help improving and understanding their customers. Or a reseller can get a dashboard to monitor requests, troubles and emergencies of their customer's properties.

[000167] For example, a controller for providing access to and control of at least one device located at a customer premise is provided herein. The device can be coupled to the controller through a communication interface. The controller can include at least one hardware driver having a corresponding software driver/module, a communication protocol, and corresponding to a particular communication interface; a memory unit for storing at least one protocol and at least one application programming interface (APIs) and an API specification information corresponding to devices; and a processing unit in communication with the hardware drivers and the memory unit. The processing unit can be adapted to: configure the at least one hardware driver using the software driver for transmitting and receiving messages over a corresponding communication interface using the protocol associated with the software driver.

[000168] For a particular device, the processing unit can determine whether the device is a smart device or analog/non-smart device; and transmit and receive messages over a communication interface to a desired device, such that: when the desired device is a smart device, the processing unit: selects an API corresponding to the desired device and queries the desired device, transmits and retrieves API information from the desired device in accordance with the selected API . When the device is an analog/non-smart device, the processing unit queries a retrofit module through a retrofit communication interface such that the retrofit module queries/monitors/controls/receives messages from the desired device.

[000169] For example, the controller can include a synchronization unit for synchronizing the memory unit with a predetermined platform over a communication interface. For example, the device can be one of a smart device or an analog/non-smart device. For example, the communication interface is an input/output port or a wireless interface. For example, the retrofit module is a one of: retrofit alarm switch, retrofit wall light switch, retrofit detector and retrofit wall plug. For example, the retrofit interface can include one of: Zwave and RS232.

[000170] For example, a method for controlling a device on a network, including: requiring an action to be taken on the device; forwarding a control message to a controller, wherein the controller is connected to smart devices and analog devices; determining whether the device is a smart device or an analog device; converting, by the controller, the control message into an analog control message if the device is an analog device; and forwarding the control message or the analog control message to the device for controlling the device.

[000171] For example, a method for controlling a device on a network is provided herein, The method involves requiring an action to be taken on the device; forwarding a control message to a controller, wherein the controller is connected to smart devices and analog devices; determining whether the device is a smart device or an analog device; converting, by the controller, the control message into an analog control message if the device is an analog device; and forwarding the control message or the analog control message to the device for controlling the device.

[000172] Figures 65 to 75 shows various embodiments and configuration of the controller. For example, Figures 66 to 75 show the communication channels, the input and output ports and protocols that are used by the controller. Figures 66 to 75 also show various hardware that can be connected or integrated into the controller. Figure 78 shows various accessory/hardware of an exemplary embodiment of the controller.

[000173] Figures 1 -33, 79 and 80 show examples of controllers, diagrams of services, methods, systems, networks, platforms, infrastructures, servers, interfaces in accordance with specific embodiments of the disclosure.

[000174] In one embodiment, a method of providing a contact access to a user location having one or more devices coupled to a platform over a communications network, the one or more devices comprising smart devices and/or analog devices is described. The method includes activating a scenario comprising one or more scenes on the platform; sensing a trigger associated with the one or more devices by the platform over the communication network; sending a request by the platform over the communication network to the contact to perform an action; receiving a response by the platform over the communication network from the contact; and based on the response, providing access to the user location to the contact.

[000175] The providing access to the user location to the contact may include providing access to a premises at the user location.

[000176] The activating the scenario may include activating at least one scene. [000177] The sensing the trigger associated with the one or more devices may include monitoring at least one sensor associated with at least one of the one or more devices.

[000178] The sending the request may include requesting that the contact answer a security question.

[000179] The response may include receiving the answer to the security question by the platform and validating the response to the security question.

[000180] In one embodiment, a system for providing a contact access to a user location having one or more devices, the one or more devices comprising smart devices and/or analog devices is described. The system includes a platform device having a processor, a non-transitory processor-readable storage medium communicatively coupled to the processor, and a communication interface communicatively coupled to the processor, the platform device communicatively coupled to the one or more devices via the communication interface, the processor configured to: activate a scenario comprising a plurality of scenes over the communication network; sense a trigger associated with the one or more devices by receiving a signal from the one or more devices over the communication network; send a request through the communication network to the contact to perform an action; receive a response over the communication network from the contact; and based on the response, provide access to the user location to the contact.

[000181] The controller may be further configured to provide the contact with access to a premises at the user location.

[000182] The controller may be further configured to activate at least one scene of the scenario.

[000183] The controller may be further configured to monitor at least one sensor associated with at least one of the one or more devices by receiving a signal from the at least one of the one or more devices over the communication network. [000184] The controller may be further configured to request that the contact answer a security question.

[000185] The controller may be further configured to receive the answer to the security question and validate the answer to the security question before providing access to the user location to the contact.

[000186] In one embodiment, a method of sharing information of a user location to partners of a platform, the user location having one or more devices coupled to the platform over a communication network, the one or more devices comprising smart devices and/or analog devices is described. The method includes receiving information by the platform from the one or more devices over the communications network, the information comprising at least one of use information and physical location information of at least one of the one or more devices at the user location; analyzing the information by the platform to determine preferences of one or more users of the at least one of the one or more devices; based on the analyzing, determining, by the platform, the partners having goods and/or services that align with the preferences of the one or more users of the at least one of the one or more devices; and sharing the information by the platform with the partners over the communication network.

[000187] The information may include use information and physical location information of at least one of the one or more devices at the user location.

[000188] The analyzing the information by the platform to determine preferences of one or more users of the at least one of the one or more devices may include building a profile of the one or more users of the at least one of the one or more devices.

[000189] The determining, by the platform, the partners having goods and/or services that align with the preferences of the one or more users of the at least one of the one or more devices may include comparing the profile of the one or more users of the at least one of the one or more devices to profiles of the partners. [000190] In one embodiment, a system for sharing information of a user location to partners, the user location having one or more devices, the one or more devices comprising smart devices and/or analog devices, is described herein. The system includes a platform device having a processor, a non- transitory processor-readable storage medium communicatively coupled to the processor, and a communication interface communicatively coupled to the processor, the platform device communicatively coupled to the one or more devices via the communication interface, the processor configured to: receive information from the one or more devices over the communications network, the information comprising at least one of use information and physical location information of at least one of the one or more devices at the user location; analyze the information to determine preferences of one or more users of the one or more devices; based on the analyzing, determine the partners having goods and/or services that align with the preferences of the one or more users of the one or more devices; and share the information with the partners over the communication network.

[000191] The information may include use information and physical location information of at least one of the one or more devices at the user location.

[000192] The processor may be further configured to analyze the information to determine preferences of one or more users of the at least one of the one or more devices by building a profile of the one or more users of the at least one of the one or more devices.

[000193] The processor may be further configured to determine the partners having goods and/or services that align with the preferences of the one or more users of the at least one of the one or more devices by comparing the profile of the one or more users of the at least one of the one or more devices to profiles of the partners. [000194] The scope of the claims should not be limited by specific embodiments and examples provided in the disclosure, but should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with the disclosure as a whole.