Automated IP Address Configuration Across Network Segments
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Solution Overview
Problem
In network environments with multiple segments, setting up devices such as printers across different segments is time-consuming and labor-intensive due to the need for manual IP address configuration and management.
Innovation Solution
A method where an information processing apparatus sets a second IP address for itself, searches for and communicates with devices to set a first IP address, generates a third IP address with the same network segment as the device, and uses this third IP address for communication, allowing for automated and efficient setting of devices across different network segments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual IP address configuration is performed for each device in multi-segment network, then devices can be properly configured, but time and effort required increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The information processing apparatus automatically performs IP address configuration for devices by itself. The apparatus changes its own IP address to match the target network segment, discovers devices automatically, configures their IP addresses, and then restores its original IP address - all without requiring manual intervention for each device configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The information processing apparatus changes its IP address to the target network segment before performing device discovery and configuration. This preliminary action enables the apparatus to communicate with devices in different network segments and automatically configure them with appropriate IP addresses before returning to its original network segment.
2Ease of operation
If vendor performs setting operations for devices before providing to customer, then customer can use devices immediately, but setting operations become time-consuming when multiple network segments are involved
Solution Approach 1:
The vendor's information processing apparatus automatically performs all necessary setting operations including IP address assignment, device discovery, and configuration without requiring manual vendor intervention. This automation maintains the benefit of pre-configured devices for customers while dramatically improving vendor productivity by eliminating time-consuming manual setup processes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If information processing apparatus changes IP address to set devices in different network segment, then device configuration across segments becomes possible, but communication with device after setting becomes problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The information processing apparatus dynamically changes its IP address based on the target network segment requirements. After configuring devices in a different network segment, the apparatus automatically changes back to its original IP address, maintaining communication capability with the device through proper address management and restoration of original network identity.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus monitors its own IP address state and automatically restores the original IP address after completing device configuration in a different network segment. This feedback mechanism ensures that the apparatus returns to its proper network identity while maintaining the ability to communicate with configured devices through the previously assigned IP addresses.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of controlling a PC setting a first IP address for a printer having a network segment different from a network segment of the PC, the method including: setting a second IP address for the PC, searching for the printer having an IP address before a change by communication using the second IP address and transmitting a network setting command including the first IP address to the searched printer to set the first IP address, generating a third IP address having a network segment identical to a network segment of the first IP address set for the printer, setting the generated third IP address for the PC, and transmitting a printer setting command to the printer using the third IP address.