Electronic Device Automatic AP and Relay Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Wi-Fi solutions require separate dedicated devices for access point and relay functions, increasing consumer burden and limiting the ability to enhance Wi-Fi signal strength and coverage without additional purchases.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device, such as a personal computer or smart screen, is enabled to automatically switch into access point or relay mode when not in use, using preset duration criteria to convert into an access point or repeater, thereby expanding home network coverage without the need for additional hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dedicated devices such as wireless router and wireless repeater are purchased separately to provide AP function and relay function, then the Wi-Fi signal strength and coverage are enhanced, but the consumer burden increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables existing electronic devices to perform multiple functions - serving as both access points and relays simultaneously. The electronic device can dynamically switch between AP mode and relay mode based on network conditions, eliminating the need for separate dedicated devices while maintaining enhanced Wi-Fi coverage and signal strength
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the functions of access point and relay into a single electronic device. By integrating both AP functionality and relay capability in one device, the system reduces the total number of devices needed while achieving the same network expansion and signal enhancement goals
2Area of stationary object
If several APs are networked or a repeater is used to expand coverage, then the coverage of wireless signal is expanded, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic device automatically determines whether to function as an access point or relay based on its own network usage status and connection conditions. The system self-configures without requiring manual intervention, automatically switching modes based on whether it is connected to wired or wireless networks, thereby simplifying deployment while expanding coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic device dynamically switches between AP mode and relay mode based on real-time network conditions. When connected to a wired network, it operates as an AP; when connected to a wireless network, it operates as a relay. This dynamic adaptation simplifies network configuration while maintaining expanded coverage
3Adaptability or versatility
If dedicated devices are used for AP and relay functions, then the network expansion capability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic device automatically configures itself as either an access point or relay based on its network connection status. When the device detects it is connected to a wired network, it automatically functions as an AP; when connected to a wireless network, it automatically functions as a relay. This self-configuration eliminates manual setup complexity while maintaining versatile network expansion capability
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of this application relate to the field of terminal technologies and disclose a method for automatically enabling an access point function and a relay function, and an electronic device. After an electronic device is powered on, if the electronic device is connected to a wired network and does not use the network within preset duration, an AP mode is enabled; or if the electronic device is connected to a wireless network and does not use the network within preset duration, a repeater mode is enabled. The AP function and the relay function can be automatically enabled on the electronic device such as a personal computer or a smart screen, and an existing device of a consumer can be set as an AP or a repeater. The consumer does not need to buy a dedicated AP or repeater. This improves Wi-Fi use experience of the consumer.