Communication Channel Selection Interface for Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Users face cumbersome processes when selecting communication channels and specifying communication targets for external devices using multiple communication systems like Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, requiring multiple input operations.

Innovation Solution

A communication support program that simplifies input operations by providing different interfaces and options based on previously selected communication channels and devices, enabling users to switch between Wi-Fi and Bluetooth systems seamlessly through a touch interface.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple communication channels (Bluetooth and Wi-Fi) are provided for external device communication, then communication versatility is improved, but the number of input operations required increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecommunication channel selectionVSAvoidinput operations

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by automatically detecting available communication channels and pre-configuring communication settings before user interaction. When a user initiates communication, the system has already prepared channel options and device lists, eliminating the need for users to manually configure each communication parameter and reducing input operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Measurement precision

If the system provides detailed selection interfaces for communication channels and target devices, then communication precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecommunication target specificationVSAvoidinterface complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The communication selection process is segmented into multiple hierarchical stages: first selecting communication channel type (Bluetooth/Wi-Fi), then selecting target device, and finally confirming communication parameters. This segmentation allows the interface to present only relevant options at each stage rather than displaying all possible settings simultaneously, reducing perceived complexity while maintaining precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The interface dynamically adapts its complexity based on user actions and system state. When communication parameters are previously set or when only one channel is available, the interface simplifies by automatically selecting defaults. When multiple options exist, the interface progressively reveals detailed selection options, adjusting complexity to match actual user needs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS9699720B2Communication channel selection and communication device management

Publication Date: 2017.07.04 BROTHER KOGYO KK

AI summary

Communication using a communication device may be configured using a variety of options and processes. In one example, communication channels may be selected or otherwise designated. Depending on whether a communication channel has been previous selected or designated, differing processes and options may be provided to a user, thereby facilitating communication configuration. The processes and options may also differ depending on whether a communication channel is currently activated. Moreover, in some examples, if a device has not been previously selected as a communication destination, the communication configuration and process may provide an option to select a destination device.