Ad-hoc Network Parameter Configuration via Rudimentary Path
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Solution Overview
Problem
Consumer electronics devices require complex setup processes for wireless or wired Ethernet networks, necessitating technical knowledge that average consumers do not possess, making it impractical for them to establish and maintain secure connections.
Innovation Solution
A method for automatically configuring necessary network parameters, such as SSID, WEP security, and channel frequency, between devices using a rudimentary communication path established through a first device and a new device, with user activation and encryption to ensure secure and minimal human intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If automatic configuration is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by allowing devices to automatically configure themselves through peer-to-peer communication. When a new device joins the network, it autonomously exchanges parameters with existing devices and configures its network settings without human intervention, thus improving ease of operation while managing complexity through automation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring devices with necessary network parameters before actual network operation. Devices are prepared with default settings and can automatically join the network by exchanging configuration data with existing members, eliminating the need for manual setup and reducing operational complexity
2Reliability
If security measures are added, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Security configuration is automated through self-service mechanisms where devices automatically exchange encrypted parameters and establish secure connections. The system handles security protocols, encryption key generation, and parameter protection automatically, maintaining reliability while preserving ease of operation by eliminating manual security configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing automatic configuration protocols that mediate between security requirements and user simplicity. The system acts as an intermediary layer that handles complex security exchanges between devices, allowing users to benefit from secure connections without directly managing security parameters
3Device complexity
If manual configuration is required, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies preliminary action by pre-configuring devices with necessary network parameters and protocols before deployment. Devices are prepared with default settings and can automatically join the network by exchanging configuration data with existing members, eliminating the need for manual setup and significantly improving network setup speed
Solution Approach 2:
Automatic configuration enables self-service deployment where devices autonomously configure themselves through peer-to-peer communication. When a new device joins, it automatically exchanges parameters with existing devices and configures its network settings, dramatically improving productivity by eliminating manual configuration time
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques for automatically configuring necessary parameters of a device to be coupled to a network with minimum human intervention are disclosed. In one embodiment, a wired and/or wireless Ad-hoc network is established to facilitate communications among a group of devices. When a new device is added to the network, a rudimentary communication path is initially established between one of the devices in the network and the new device such that necessary parameters (e.g., SSID, WEP security, channel frequency) can be exchanged for the new device to function properly in the network. To ensure the parameters are exchanged in a secure fashion, an additional public security procedure can be used between the two devices.