Information Processing Apparatus Network Switching for Software Updates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Smartphones and other information processing devices cannot update software when connected to electronic devices with wireless LAN access point functions, as they automatically disconnect from wide area networks, preventing access to internet-based update servers.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus with a connection unit for both wide area networks and wireless LAN, a receiving unit to determine software capability, an acquiring unit to download updates via a third communication method, and a control unit to re-enable communication after updating, ensuring seamless software updates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the information processing apparatus connects to the electronic apparatus using wireless LAN access point function, then communication between the apparatuses is enabled, but the wide area network connection is automatically disconnected and the apparatus cannot access internet-based update servers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication functions into distinct modes: wireless LAN access point mode for direct apparatus communication and wide area network mode for internet access. The system can switch between these segmented modes or operate both simultaneously through multi-home networking, allowing the apparatus to maintain internet connectivity while enabling direct wireless communication with other devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The information processing apparatus is designed with multi-functionality to perform both wireless LAN access point operations and wide area network communications simultaneously. By supporting multiple network interfaces and protocols (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular), the apparatus can universally communicate via wireless LAN while maintaining adaptability to access internet-based update servers through wide area networks.
2Speed
If the apparatus switches to wireless LAN connection for faster communication, then communication speed is improved, but the wide area network connection is automatically disconnected preventing software updates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic network management where the apparatus can dynamically switch between communication modes based on operational needs. The system dynamically allocates network resources, allowing high-speed wireless LAN communication for data transfer while maintaining wide area network connectivity for software updates, or switching between modes as conditions change.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes network connection parameters dynamically, adjusting which network interface is active for which function. By modifying network configuration parameters (enabled/disabled states, priority levels, bandwidth allocation), the apparatus can optimize communication speed via wireless LAN while preserving software update capability through maintained wide area network parameter settings.
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus comprises a connection unit being connectable to an electronic apparatus using a first communication method or a second communication method, a receiving unit that receives, from the electronic apparatus via the second communication method, information indicating a capability of software for communication with the electronic apparatus using the first communication method, a determination unit that determines whether software of the information processing apparatus meets the capability, an acquiring unit that, if the software of the information processing apparatus does not meet the capability, acquires software that meets the capability via a network using a third communication method, and a control unit that enables the communication with the electronic apparatus using the first communication method after the software that meets the capability is acquired.