Network Adapter With Internal Memory For Automatic Software Activation

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Solution Overview

Problem

The increasing complexity and volume of available application software make it difficult for users to discover and access relevant software, and the installation process often requires technical skills and is time-consuming.

Innovation Solution

A network adapter with internal memory that automatically activates and provides resident application software when connected to a host computer, allowing users to access software without manual installation, with options for automatic deactivation and uninstallation, secure data storage, and updates, and compatibility with various devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If application software is manually installed on a host computer, then the software can be used, but the installation process is time-consuming and requires technical skills

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of software installationVSAvoidinstallation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The network adapter automatically activates resident application software when connected to a host computer without requiring user intervention for installation. The system performs self-service by detecting the connection and automatically launching the appropriate application, eliminating the need for manual installation processes and technical configuration by the user.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Application software is pre-installed and stored in the network adapter's internal memory before connection to the host computer. This preliminary preparation allows the software to be automatically activated upon connection, eliminating the need for installation at the time of use and reducing both installation time and technical skill requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple application software packages are made available to users, then software variety increases, but it becomes difficult for users to discover and access relevant software

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesoftware varietyVSAvoidsoftware discoverability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The network adapter serves as an intermediary device that bridges the gap between multiple available application software packages and the user. It automatically detects which application is appropriate for the current connection and task, then activates that specific application without requiring the user to search through or select from multiple software options, thus maintaining software variety while improving discoverability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The network adapter dynamically determines which application software to activate based on the current connection type and user needs. Rather than presenting a static list of available software, the system adaptively selects and activates the most relevant application, making software discovery automatic and context-aware while preserving access to a wide variety of applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If application software is stored on a host computer, then the software is easily accessible, but sensitive information may be permanently stored and compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesoftware accessibilityVSAvoiddata security risk
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts application software from the host computer and stores it in the network adapter's internal memory instead. This physical separation removes sensitive information from the host computer where it could be permanently stored and compromised, while maintaining ease of access through automatic activation when the adapter is connected. The software and data are taken out of the vulnerable host environment and placed in a more secure, portable storage location.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Data Source

PatentUS8332561B2Network adapter, method, and computer program product
Publication Date: 2012.12.11 SONY GROUP CORP
  • US8332561B2 patent drawing
  • US8332561B2 patent drawing
  • US8332561B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A network adapter for plugging into a host computer is provided. The network adapter may include an internal memory and connection means for connecting the host computer to a communications network. The network adapter may include resident application software stored in the network adapter's internal memory, whereby the resident application software automatically activates when the network adapter is plugged into the host computer.