Network Device Use Case Configuration via Dynamic Labeling

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for setting up collaborative networks across multiple locations are inflexible, requiring reconfiguration and reprogramming for each use case, making it difficult to quickly adapt to new use cases or switch between them, and current digital polling solutions are limited in flexibility and suitability for ad-hoc usage.

Innovation Solution

A system that dynamically configures network devices to adapt to different use cases by applying device labels and rules, allowing easy addition or removal of sources and sinks during a session, and integrates a digital interactive dialogue window with web browser content for efficient collaboration and polling.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional network devices are configured for specific use cases, then the data flow is established correctly for that use case, but the devices require reconfiguration and reprogramming for each new use case, making quick adaptation impossible

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different use casesVSAvoidtime for reconfiguration and reprogramming
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The network device is designed with a universal configuration system that can serve multiple use cases through software-based configuration rather than hardware reconfiguration. The device maintains a library of configuration templates and can dynamically switch between different use case configurations (e.g., video conferencing, online teaching, collaborative work) without physical changes or manual reprogramming, enabling one device to perform multiple functions efficiently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The configuration system implements dynamic adaptability where the device can automatically adjust its settings and data flow paths based on the selected use case. When a user selects a different use case, the system dynamically reconfigures network parameters, routing rules, and device behaviors without requiring manual intervention or downtime, allowing seamless transition between different collaborative scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If manual reconfiguration is performed for each new use case, then the correct data flow is established, but technically qualified intervention and site visits are required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecorrect data flow establishmentVSAvoidease of adding new use cases
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements self-service configuration capabilities where the device automatically detects the selected use case and applies the appropriate configuration template without human intervention. The automated system validates data flow paths, adjusts network parameters, and activates the correct operational mode, eliminating the need for technically qualified personnel to perform manual reconfiguration or site visits for each new use case while maintaining reliable data flow establishment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Configuration templates for various use cases are pre-configured and stored in the device memory before actual use. When a user selects a use case, the system retrieves and applies the pre-prepared configuration, which includes all necessary data flow rules, network parameters, and device settings. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for on-site technical intervention as the device can autonomously activate the correct pre-configured scenario.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If conventional polling tools are used, then voting functionality is provided, but the tools require specific presentation software plugins and create a separate poll experience that must be integrated manually

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepolling functionalityVSAvoidintegration complexity with presentation content
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The polling functionality is merged directly into the web browser interface and integrated with the presentation content display. Instead of using separate poll tools that require manual integration, the system combines the presentation viewer and polling interface into a unified web-based environment. Users can view presentation content and participate in polls within the same browser window, eliminating the need for separate plugins or manual integration steps while maintaining reliable polling functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The web browser serves as a universal platform that combines multiple functions: displaying presentation content, running polls, collecting votes, and showing results—all within a single interface. This eliminates the need for specialized presentation software plugins or separate polling tools, as the browser natively supports all collaborative activities. The system provides a unified experience where polling and presentation are seamlessly integrated without requiring additional software installations or complex configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP3639224B1Method and system for streaming data over a network
Publication Date: 2023.04.19 BARCO NV
  • EP3639224B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3639224B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3639224B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present invention provides a system and method for collaboration e.g. by configuring network devices for streaming electronic media data over a computer network. The network comprises type 1- and type 2 network devices and the data can be streamed from a type 1 network device to a type 2 network device according to an electronic value. A use-case comprises a collection of such electronic values. Such a system or method can be used for combining a digital interactive dialog window with generic web content shown by web browsers. The digital interactive dialog window can be overlaid onto the web content in an ad-hoc manner.