Network Camera Setup via USB Cable and Application
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The setup process for network cameras is overly complicated for users, requiring extensive configuration steps and technical knowledge, including IP address settings, wireless network configurations, and software-specific procedures, which hinders easy integration into local area networks.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a USB cable to connect a network camera to a computing device, where an application program retrieves and transmits network configuration data to the camera, simplifying the setup process by eliminating the need for barcode scanning, ad-hoc wireless connections, and manual entry of complex settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional manual configuration methods are used for network cameras, then comprehensive network settings can be configured, but the setup process becomes overly complicated and difficult for users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a computing device as an intermediary between the user and the network camera. The computing device runs an application that automatically retrieves network configuration data and transmits it to the network camera via cable connection, eliminating the need for users to manually configure complex network settings directly on the camera
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service configuration where the network camera automatically receives and applies network configuration data transmitted from the computing device. The camera's network settings are automatically adjusted based on the received configuration data, requiring minimal user intervention beyond initiating the setup process
2Reliability
If comprehensive network configuration options are provided, then proper network integration is achieved, but the learning curve and time required for setup increases
Solution Approach 1:
The computing device application performs preliminary actions by automatically retrieving network configuration data from the local area network before transmission to the network camera. This pre-configured data includes all necessary network settings, eliminating the need for users to spend time manually configuring each parameter during setup
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple configuration methods are provided (barcode scanning, ad-hoc wireless, manual entry), then flexibility is improved, but the overall complexity of the setup process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complexity of network configuration retrieval and processing from the user's direct interaction with the network camera. The computing device application handles all complex operations including retrieving network configuration data, processing the information, and transmitting it to the camera, leaving users with a simple cable-connection interface
Data Source
AI summary
A method of setting up a network camera to communicate with a network includes connecting a cable to both the network camera and a computing device, the computing device being in communication with the network. The method also includes transmitting network configuration data from the computing device to the network camera via the cable, and adjusting network settings of the network camera according to the received network configuration data.