Acoustic Configuration for End-User Device Setup
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing consumer devices face challenges in configuring network connectivity and accessing services without user intervention, particularly when new devices are purchased and need to link to network services for digital content access.
Innovation Solution
An intermediate computing device generates and plays back an acoustic configuration file using near-field acoustic signals, embedding configuration parameters that can be detected by end-user devices, enabling them to connect to network services by processing these signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If conventional configuration methods are used, then user intervention is required which increases complexity, but automated configuration is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The end-user device automatically configures itself by receiving and processing acoustic signals containing configuration parameters. The device performs self-service configuration without requiring user intervention to manually enter credentials or network settings, as the acoustic signal delivers all necessary configuration data directly to the device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual configuration methods (mechanical interaction through user input) with acoustic signal transmission. Instead of users physically entering configuration data through keyboards or interfaces, the system uses acoustic waves to transmit configuration parameters wirelessly to the device, automating the process.
2Ease of operation
If manual configuration methods are used, then configuration process is complex, but simplicity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex configuration process from the user's responsibility and transfers it to the acoustic signal transmission system. The configuration parameters are packaged into an acoustic signal file that contains all necessary information (credentials, network settings, etc.), removing the need for users to manually handle complex configuration tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The acoustic signal acts as an intermediary carrier that transports configuration parameters from the source to the end-user device. This intermediary mechanism simplifies the configuration process by providing a single unified method for delivering all configuration data, replacing multiple complex manual steps with a single acoustic transmission action.
3Extent of automation
If automated configuration is implemented, then user intervention is reduced, but configuration reliability must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the end-user device processes the acoustic signal and confirms successful configuration. The acoustic configuration method includes verification steps that ensure the configuration parameters were correctly received and applied, maintaining reliability while achieving automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The configuration parameters are prepared and embedded in the acoustic signal in advance before transmission. This preliminary preparation ensures that all necessary configuration data is validated and ready before reaching the end-user device, maintaining configuration reliability while enabling automated deployment.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method simplifies the configuration process for end-user devices, allowing them to access network services efficiently and facilitating troubleshooting, reducing user complexity and reliance on conventional setup methods.
Implementation Method 1
an acoustic output component to output encoded near-field acoustic signals
Data Source
AI summary
An intermediate device is operated to play back an acoustic configuration file for an end-user device. The acoustic configuration file can embed configuration parameters that are detectable by the end-user device. In particular, the end-user device can use the configuration parameters in conjunction with performing select operations, such as operations to configure the end-user device for communication with the network service.