Mobile Device Wireless Access Point Connection Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face difficulties in establishing connections between mobile devices and wireless access points due to the need for technical expertise, such as finding and configuring ESSIDs and credentials, leading to a frustrating and time-consuming experience.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that allows mobile devices to connect to wireless access points by scanning or entering a barcode or printed number on the access point, using software to automatically obtain and transmit the necessary ESSID and credential information for secure connection establishment, either locally or through a remote server.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If users manually configure ESSID and credentials to connect to a WAP, then connection security is maintained, but user operation complexity increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary system consisting of a server and database that automatically manages ESSID and credential distribution. Instead of users directly configuring security parameters, the system mediates the connection process by providing pre-configured credentials through a user-friendly interface, thereby maintaining security while reducing operational complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service connection establishment where users can connect to WAPs without technical expertise. The automated system handles credential retrieval and configuration in the background, allowing users to simply initiate connection requests through a simplified interface while the system autonomously manages the security configuration
2Measurement precision
If users manually obtain and configure ESSID and credential information, then connection accuracy can be ensured, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring ESSID and credential information in a centralized database before users need to connect. When a user initiates a connection, the system has already prepared the necessary credentials, eliminating the time-consuming manual search and configuration process while ensuring accurate connection parameters
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical process of finding, copying, and configuring ESSID and credentials with an automated electronic system. The system electronically retrieves and applies connection parameters automatically, substituting manual operations with automated processes that are both faster and more accurate
3Reliability
If WAPs use hidden or cloaked ESSIDs for security, then network security is improved, but user ability to detect and connect deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the server maintains knowledge of hidden WAP ESSIDs through registration and reporting. When users search for connections, the system provides feedback about available hidden networks and automatically retrieves the appropriate credentials, allowing users to connect to secure hidden networks without manually detecting them
Data Source
AI summary
Under one aspect of the present invention, a system is provided for facilitating communication between a mobile device and a wireless access point (WAP). The mobile device includes a processor and a non-volatile computer readable medium. The system may include an identifier disposed on the WAP; and a communication application stored in the non-volatile computer readable medium of the mobile device and configured to cause the processor of the mobile device to perform the steps of: (a) obtaining a digital representation of the identifier of the WAP; (b) connecting to the WAP; (c) transmitting the digital representation of the identifier to the WAP; (d) receiving from the WAP an ESSID and a credential responsive to the transmitted digital representation; and (e) connecting to the selected wireless access point based on the ESSID and credential.