Dual Pathway Display Device Network Connectivity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electronic display devices face challenges with network connectivity issues, security vulnerabilities, and the need for manual updates, making them unreliable and difficult to manage, especially in emergency situations where third-party access is required.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a thin-client display system with dual pathway connectivity via a wide area network and a local area network, allowing automatic registration and content management, with a content management server to transmit and schedule content, and prioritize messages across secure networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional electronic display device uses a single local Wi-Fi connection for content updates, then the device can be updated locally, but the system becomes vulnerable to network connectivity issues and security breaches
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the network connectivity into separate segments: a primary local area network (LAN) for routine content updates and a secondary wide area network (WAN) for critical communications. This segmentation allows the system to maintain reliability by switching between networks if one fails, while managing complexity through dedicated functions for each network type.
Solution Approach 2:
The system prepares backup network connections and pre-configured content sources before failures occur. By maintaining a secondary WAN connection and pre-loaded content libraries, the system can continue operating even when the primary LAN is unavailable, cushioning against connectivity failures before they impact operations.
2Productivity
If the display device requires manual local updates, then the device can be updated, but the management process becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The display device automatically connects to content sources via the WAN, retrieves updates without manual intervention, and applies content changes autonomously. This self-service capability eliminates the need for manual local updates, significantly improving productivity while reducing the operational burden on administrators.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors its own operational status and network connectivity, automatically adjusting content retrieval operations based on real-time feedback. When the LAN is available, it uses that connection; when unavailable, it switches to WAN-based updates, optimizing the management process dynamically.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the device uses Wi-Fi protocols for connections, then the device can communicate over a network, but the connections become insecure and vulnerable to hacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a secure server as an intermediary between the display device and external content sources. All communications pass through this secured intermediary, which authenticates devices and encrypts data transmission, thereby protecting against security vulnerabilities while maintaining network versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the security parameter of network communications by transitioning from unsecured Wi-Fi protocols to encrypted secure protocols (such as HTTPS and TLS) for WAN communications. This parameter change maintains connectivity versatility while eliminating security vulnerabilities.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If the display device is locked behind firewall security measures, then external access is prohibited, but third parties cannot access the device during emergency situations
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts its security posture based on operational context. During normal operations, firewalls maintain strict security protocols. When emergency situations are detected or declared, the system dynamically opens controlled access channels to authorized third parties, balancing security protection with access flexibility as needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A display devices with dual pathway connections. More particularly, electronic signage devices with dual or redundant pathways offering lower cost and higher reliability.