Bar Code Wireless LAN Configuration for Digital Camera Direct Print
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing direct print systems using wireless LAN for image data transmission require setting of WEP-KEY for encrypted communication and cannot transmit data to a specific printer unless the destination is specified, making the process complex, especially in networks with multiple devices.
Innovation Solution
A direct print system that includes a digital camera and a printer capable of communicating via wireless LAN, using a bar code to convey setting and transmission-destination information, allowing the camera to read and transmit image data to the printer without manual specification, simplifying the printing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If wireless LAN communication is used for direct print system, then image data transmission between digital camera and printer is enabled, but setting WEP-KEY for encrypted communication is required which increases complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The printer automatically performs preliminary actions by acquiring wireless-LAN information (including WEP-KEY) and generating a bar code representing this information before the actual printing operation. This allows the digital camera to obtain the necessary configuration data through simple bar code reading, eliminating the need for manual WEP-KEY setting and reducing configuration complexity while maintaining wireless communication capability
Solution Approach 2:
A bar code serves as an intermediary carrier that transmits wireless-LAN information (including WEP-KEY) from the printer to the digital camera. Instead of directly configuring wireless settings or manually entering WEP-KEY, the system uses the bar code as a mediator to transfer the necessary encrypted communication information, simplifying the configuration process while enabling secure wireless communication
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple printers are connected on network, then printing flexibility is improved, but transmission destination must be specified which increases operation complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The bar code acts as an intermediary that carries transmission-destination information directly from the printer to the digital camera. When multiple printers are connected, the user simply reads the bar code from the desired printer, which automatically provides the correct transmission destination information, eliminating the need to manually specify the destination and simplifying the operation while maintaining the ability to select from multiple printers
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service operation where the digital camera automatically obtains the transmission destination information by reading the bar code generated by the printer. The printer itself provides the necessary information (including its own identification and wireless settings) through the bar code, allowing the camera to automatically configure the transmission without user intervention for destination specification
Data Source
AI summary
Wireless-LAN information is set in a digital still camera in a comparatively simple manner. Specifically, if a digital still camera and a printer are to communicate utilizing a wireless LAN, the printer generates a two-dimensional bar code containing wireless-LAN setting information such as ESS-ID and WEP KEY, and printer setting information such as an IP address. The printer is used to generate a direct print setting sheet on which have been recorded the generated two-dimensional bar code as well as the wireless-LAN setting information and printer setting information. The digital still camera is used to take a picture of the two-dimensional bar code and read the wireless-LAN setting information and printer setting information from the two-dimensional bar code. The read wireless-LAN setting information and printer setting information is set in the digital still camera, and the printer and digital still camera cooperate to perform direct printing using the wireless LAN.