BLE Beacon Credential Distribution for Wi-Fi Direct Data Transfer
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Users face difficulties in consistently checking in at physical locations using mobile devices due to the need for cellular data connectivity, which can be unreliable, and existing systems do not efficiently facilitate large data transfers for features like video advertisements.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) beacons to provide credentials for Wi-Fi access and establish Wi-Fi Direct connections for large data transfers, allowing users to check in and receive content without relying on cellular data, using a combination of BLE and Wi-Fi Direct protocols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cellular data connectivity is used for check-in and content delivery, then users can receive advertisements and information, but users cannot check in reliably in areas with poor cellular reception
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces BLE beacons as an intermediary communication medium between the mobile device and the merchant system. These beacons operate independently of cellular networks, providing a reliable local communication channel for check-in and content delivery that works regardless of cellular signal strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication system is segmented into multiple independent channels: BLE beacons for initial check-in and credential distribution, and Wi-Fi for large data transfers. This segmentation allows each channel to be optimized for its specific function and ensures that failure in one channel (cellular) does not prevent the overall system from working.
2Quantity of substance
If large data files like video advertisements are transmitted, then users can receive rich content, but transmission time increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The data transmission process is segmented into two phases: first, transmission of small credential data via fast BLE connection for immediate use; second, transmission of large content files via the parallel Wi-Fi connection. This allows users to access essential functionality immediately while larger files transfer in the background without blocking the user experience.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by establishing the Wi-Fi Direct connection and initiating large file transfers immediately after check-in, while the user is still engaged with the check-in process. This overlapping of operations reduces total transmission time by not waiting for sequential completion.
3Adaptability or versatility
If users manually check in every visit, then the merchant can provide targeted information, but users experience tedious repeated actions
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service by automatically detecting the user's presence through BLE beacon signals and initiating the check-in process without requiring manual user action. The mobile device automatically connects to the beacon, receives credentials, and establishes Wi-Fi connection, making the entire check-in process transparent and convenient for the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from BLE beacon signals to automatically trigger check-in actions. When the mobile device detects the beacon signal, it automatically initiates the check-in sequence, providing immediate feedback that the check-in process has started and completed, eliminating the need for repeated manual actions.
4Reliability
If BLE beacons are used for check-in, then users can check in without cellular data, but BLE has limited data transfer capability for large files
Solution Approach 1:
The data transfer task is segmented into two parts: small credential data (user profiles, access tokens) transmitted via BLE, and large content files (videos, images) transmitted via Wi-Fi. This segmentation allows BLE to handle its strength (reliable small data transfer) while Wi-Fi handles its strength (large data transfer), solving both limitations.
Solution Approach 2:
BLE beacons serve as an intermediary that facilitates the establishment of a Wi-Fi Direct connection. The beacon transmits initial credentials that enable the mobile device to connect to the merchant's Wi-Fi network, effectively using BLE as a key exchange mechanism that unlocks the higher-capacity Wi-Fi transmission channel.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for facilitating wireless connections using a Bluetooth® low energy (BLE) beacon installed at a location. In particular, the provided systems and methods may facilitate wireless connections by providing credentials for accessing a wireless network at the location when a user checks in to the location using a user device in communication with the BLE beacon. The provided systems and methods may further facilitate wireless connections by establishing a Wi-Fi Direct connection with the user device to quickly provide content to the user device while at the location.