Information Processing Device Master Switching Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing communication systems between devices are complex and cumbersome, requiring manual setup and disconnection of connections when switching communication managing devices, leading to decreased usability, especially in networks with multiple devices.

Innovation Solution

An information processing device and method that facilitates connection and disconnection between devices by transmitting identification information and managing master requests, allowing seamless switching of communication managing devices without manual intervention, using a combination of close proximity and near field wireless communication methods.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual connection setup and disconnection is performed when switching communication managing devices, then communication network can be established and switched, but the operation becomes tedious and usability decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveusability of communication applicationVSAvoidtime for setup and disconnection work

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by automatically establishing connections between devices when a new master device is designated, before the user needs to use the communication function. The connection setup is done in advance through automatic detection and pairing, eliminating the need for manual setup at the time of switching masters.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The communication managing device performs self-service by automatically managing connection establishment and disconnection when switching masters. The system autonomously handles the complex connection setup process, including device discovery, pairing, and network configuration, without requiring user intervention or manual operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Adaptability or versatility

If all connections are disconnected when switching communication managing devices, then the new device can take over, but the switching process becomes complicated and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to switch communication managing deviceVSAvoidcomplexity of connection setting work

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses an intermediary approach where the new master device establishes connections with slave devices directly, rather than requiring complete disconnection and reconfiguration. The connection management is mediated through automatic protocols that handle the transition smoothly, reducing the complexity of switching operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The connection topology dynamically adjusts when switching masters. Instead of static disconnection and reconnection, the system dynamically reconfigures connections in real-time, allowing the new master to assume control while maintaining communication continuity and simplifying the switching process.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If manual connection establishment is required for each device, then communication can be set up, but the process becomes tedious especially in networks with three or more devices

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecommunication connection establishmentVSAvoidsimplicity of setup process

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The communication managing device automatically performs device discovery, connection establishment, and network configuration without user intervention. The system self-services the entire connection setup process, including automatic pairing with slave devices and configuration of communication parameters, ensuring reliable connections while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The communication managing device performs multiple functions automatically: device discovery, connection establishment, network configuration, and slave device management. This multi-functional automation eliminates the need for separate manual operations for each connection task, simplifying the overall setup process while ensuring reliable communication.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS9124714B2Information processing device and method, program, and information processing system

Publication Date: 2015.09.01 SONY GROUP CORP

AI summary

An information processing device has a first transmitting unit to connect a first other information processing device and second other information processing device and transmit the content via the connection; a first receiving unit to receive a master request that requests an upgrade to a master from the first other information processing device; a second transmitting unit to transmit the identification information of the first other information processing device to the second information processing device upon receiving the master request; a disconnecting unit to disconnect the connection with the second other information processing device after transmitting the identification information of the first other information processing device; and a second receiving unit to receive content via the connection from the first other information processing device.