Product Feature Definition

Product feature definition is an abstract representation of smart hardware capabilities. It describes device functions, parameters, and how data is exchanged with the cloud. Features digitally express hardware capabilities and define communication rules between the device and the cloud platform. This abstraction and standardization help the platform manage devices, monitor data, and issue control commands more efficiently.

I. Feature categories

l Standard features: Common features supported by a product category, also called standard DP Codes. Because product attributes differ, standard features vary by product.

l Custom features: If a designed device capability is not covered by standard features, you can define a custom feature.

l Advanced features: Capabilities that do not fit common feature formats—such as cloud timers, cloud countdowns, and group creation—are called advanced features.

II. Data transfer types

Defines the direction of data exchange:

Ø Send and report: Commands can be sent to the device; device data can be reported to the cloud.

Ø Report only: Data can only be transferred from the device to the cloud.

Ø Send only: Data can only be sent from the cloud to the device.

III. Data types

Ø Enum: A custom finite set of values—for example, low / medium / high on a heater.

Ø Bool: A binary true/false value—for example, on/off for a switch.

Ø Int: Linearly adjustable numeric data—for example, temperature 20–40°C.

Ø String: Feature data transferred as a string.

Ø Double: Numeric data with fractional precision—for example, stepless level 0.1–3.0.

Ø Fault: Fault reporting and statistics DPs; report-only—for example, temperature sensor fault, motor fault, and over-temperature fault.

IV. Example

Take a humidifier. First outline features: power switch, stepless level, light switch, light brightness, light mode, current humidity, target humidity, warm mist switch, warm mist level, and child lock.

Then add product features on the platform as shown:

In most cases, standard features on the developer platform cover typical device needs. If a required feature is missing, add a custom feature.