Communication Apparatus Network Switching for Seamless Data Transfer
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Digital cameras equipped with a simplified access point function cannot connect to different networks, such as the Internet, while transferring data, limiting the ability to use multiple applications simultaneously and preventing seamless image uploads to Social Networking Services.
Innovation Solution
A communication apparatus and method that switch between two communication methods: a first method that only allows connection to a local network and a second method that allows connection to a different network, enabling the communication apparatus to switch to the second method when an application transitions to a background state, allowing continued data transfer and internet connectivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the communication apparatus uses the first communication method (simplified AP function) to transfer data, then data transfer between the digital camera and smart device is enabled, but the smart device cannot connect to external networks such as the Internet
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between the first communication method (simplified AP) and the second communication method (standard AP) based on whether the smart device is in the foreground or background state. When the application is in the foreground, the simplified AP method is used for direct data transfer. When the application transitions to the background, the system switches to the standard AP method, enabling the smart device to connect to external networks while maintaining data transfer capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication apparatus changes its operational parameters by switching between different communication methods. The first communication method (simplified AP) is used when the application is active, and the second communication method (standard AP) is activated when the application is in the background, allowing the system to adapt its network connectivity parameters based on the application state.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the application remains in the foreground state to maintain network connectivity, then Internet access is available, but the user cannot switch to other applications
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the communication method based on application state. Users can freely switch between applications as needed. When the first application is in the foreground, it uses the simplified AP method. When the user switches to a second application (putting the first application in the background), the system automatically switches to the standard AP method, maintaining network connectivity without requiring the user to keep any specific application in the foreground.
3Ease of operation
If the application transitions to the background state to use other applications, then multi-application usage is enabled, but the smart device loses Internet connectivity and cannot upload images to SNS
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects when the application transitions to the background state and dynamically switches from the first communication method (simplified AP) to the second communication method (standard AP). This dynamic switching ensures that when users switch to other applications, the smart device maintains Internet connectivity through the standard AP method, enabling continuous image upload to SNS without interruption.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication apparatus acts as an intermediary that manages the transition between different communication methods. When the application is in the background, the standard AP function serves as a mediator that maintains the connection between the smart device and external networks, allowing image data to be transmitted to SNS even though the original application is not active.
4Reliability
If the system uses only the simplified AP function for data transfer, then direct communication between devices is achieved, but the device cannot connect to different networks simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the communication functionality into two distinct modes: the first communication method (simplified AP) for direct device-to-device communication, and the second communication method (standard AP) for network connectivity. The system can selectively activate the appropriate segment based on the application state, ensuring reliable direct communication when needed and multi-network capability when the application is in the background.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication apparatus is designed with multi-functionality, incorporating both the simplified AP function and the standard AP function. This universal design allows the device to perform both direct communication (when the application is active) and network connectivity (when the application is in the background), making the system adaptable to different operational requirements without needing separate devices.
Data Source
AI summary
A communication apparatus that communicates with a data transfer apparatus using a plurality of communication methods that include a first communication method with which the communication device is unable to connect to a second network while connected to the data transfer apparatus via a first network, and a second communication method with which the communication device is able to connect to the second network while connected to the data transfer apparatus, executes a communication application for data communication, and controls the communication device. While the communication apparatus is executing the communication application and is connected to the data transfer apparatus using the first communication method, the communication controller controls the communication device so as to switch from the first communication method to the second communication method upon the state of the communication application transitioning to a background state.