Barcode Reader Pre-Configuration via NFC for Bluetooth Connectivity

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Solution Overview

Problem

Cordless barcode reader devices require different settings to connect wirelessly to various computing devices, with each device's operating system necessitating specific configurations for connection, leading to complexity in establishing seamless communication links.

Innovation Solution

A method where a barcode reader device sends a request via a first short-range wireless protocol, receives settings from the computing device via the same protocol, modifies its settings accordingly, and establishes a communication link using a second short-range wireless protocol, allowing for adaptable connections across different devices and protocols.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the barcode reader device uses fixed settings for wireless connection, then connection stability to a specific device type is improved, but adaptability to different computing devices deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection stabilityVSAvoidadaptability to different computing devices
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The barcode reader device dynamically adjusts its wireless connection settings based on the target computing device type. The device transitions from fixed settings to adaptive settings by receiving device type information and automatically modifying connection parameters, enabling reliable connections across multiple device types without manual reconfiguration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The device changes its operational parameters (wireless connection settings) based on the detected computing device type. By receiving information about the target device and automatically adjusting connection parameters, the barcode reader maintains reliable connections while adapting to different operating systems and device requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If the barcode reader device manually configures settings for each device type, then connection compatibility is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection compatibilityVSAvoidease of connection
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The barcode reader device performs self-configuration by automatically detecting the computing device type and adjusting its wireless connection settings without user intervention. The device receives device type information and autonomously modifies its parameters, eliminating the need for users to manually configure settings for different device types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements feedback by receiving information about the target computing device type and using that information to automatically adjust connection settings. This closed-loop approach allows the device to adapt its configuration based on real-time device identification, ensuring compatibility while simplifying the connection process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Adaptability or versatility

If the barcode reader device supports multiple connection protocols, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotocol compatibilityVSAvoidconfiguration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The barcode reader device implements multi-functionality by supporting multiple wireless connection protocols and automatically selecting the appropriate protocol based on the detected computing device type. This universal approach allows a single device to connect to various device types (smartphones, tablets, computers) without requiring separate dedicated hardware for each protocol.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS20220327301A1Pre-configure scanner for successful bluetooth connection
Publication Date: 2022.10.13 ZEBRA TECHNOLOGIES CORP
  • US20220327301A1 patent drawing
  • US20220327301A1 patent drawing
  • US20220327301A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Techniques for pre-configuring a barcode reader device for establishing a communication link with a particular computing device via a short-range communication protocol are provided herein. An example method includes sending, by a barcode reader device, a request to a computing device via a first short-range wireless communication protocol (e.g., NFC); receiving, by the barcode reader device, from the computing device, via the first short-range wireless communication protocol, an indication of one or more barcode reader device settings for establishing a short-range communication link with the computing device via a second short-range wireless communication protocol (e.g., Bluetooth®); modifying, by the barcode reader device, the one or more barcode reader device settings as indicated; and establishing, by the barcode reader device, the short-range communication link with the computing device via the second short-range wireless communication protocol.