Network Intermediary Device for Extending Apparatus Functionality
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for adding functionality to network-connected apparatuses require specific hardware components or unique identifiers, limiting their versatility and flexibility in extending or improving existing functionalities.
Innovation Solution
A device with a first connector for network communication and a second connector for connecting to the apparatus, using different network portions to provide additional functionality without requiring additional hardware on the apparatus, allowing communication with the apparatus using a local protocol while appearing as part of the apparatus to the network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a device is connected directly to the network, then the device is accessible in the network, but the device requires a unique identifier (such as an IP address) which complicates network configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus acts as an intermediary between the device and the network. The device connects to the apparatus via a local interface (e.g., USB, Bluetooth), and the apparatus handles all network communications using its own identifier. This mediator approach allows the device to be network-accessible without requiring the device itself to have a network identifier or direct network connection.
2Ease of operation
If logic circuitry is made accessible in the network, then the device can be controlled remotely, but security risks increase due to direct network exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus serves as a secure intermediary that receives all network commands and relays them to the device through a protected local interface. The device's logic circuitry remains isolated from direct network access, eliminating security vulnerabilities associated with direct exposure while maintaining full remote controllability through the apparatus's network connection.
3Adaptability or versatility
If additional functionality is added to an apparatus, then the functionality is extended, but hardware components or unique identifiers are required which limit versatility
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus provides a universal platform for adding functionality to various devices without requiring device-specific hardware modifications. By using standard local interfaces (USB, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi) and handling all network communications centrally, the same apparatus can extend functionality to different types of devices, making the solution highly versatile and adaptable.
Data Source
AI summary
A device and method for providing additional functionality to an apparatus having a network connector by which the apparatus is configured to be connected to a network and to be allocated an identifier in the network, wherein the device is adapted to be connected between the network and the apparatus, wherein the device is configured to communicate with the network using a first network portion, wherein the device is configured to communicate with the apparatus using a second network portion, wherein logic circuitry of the device is accessible in the network via the apparatus using the second network portion. The device may be found in a system.