Dual Wireless Interface Switching for NFC to Wi-Fi Direct Handover

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing communication devices struggle to efficiently switch between different wireless communication protocols such as NFC and Wi-Fi Direct, leading to inefficiencies and limitations in data transfer speeds and compatibility with various devices.

Innovation Solution

A function executing device equipped with multiple communication interfaces (NFC and Wi-Fi) that dynamically switches between these protocols based on device state and capability, using a control unit to manage communication processes and store permission information for functions, ensuring optimal communication based on the device's status and the terminal's capabilities.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If a communication device uses only NFC for initial connection, then short-range communication is achieved, but data transfer speed is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transfer speedVSAvoidcommunication reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically switches communication interfaces based on operational needs. Initially, NFC is used for reliable short-range connection establishment. Once connected, the system transitions to Wi-Fi Direct for high-speed data transfer, optimizing both reliability and speed at different stages of the communication process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The communication device is equipped with multiple wireless communication interfaces (NFC and Wi-Fi Direct) that serve different functions. NFC handles initial connection and control signals, while Wi-Fi Direct handles bulk data transfer, allowing the device to universally communicate with various terminals while optimizing performance for each task.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If a communication device supports multiple wireless protocols, then compatibility with various devices is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice compatibilityVSAvoidinterface management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control unit acts as an intermediary that manages multiple communication interfaces. It automatically selects the appropriate interface (NFC or Wi-Fi Direct) based on the terminal device type and communication requirements, shielding users from the complexity of multi-protocol management while maintaining high compatibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adapts its communication interface based on the detected terminal device. The control unit monitors device characteristics and automatically switches between NFC and Wi-Fi Direct protocols, providing universal compatibility without requiring manual user configuration or increasing operational complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Productivity

If the system switches interfaces dynamically, then communication efficiency is improved, but control complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication efficiencyVSAvoidcontrol process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control unit implements feedback mechanisms to monitor communication status, device compatibility, and transfer requirements. Based on this feedback, it automatically makes intelligent decisions about interface switching, optimizing communication efficiency while keeping control logic automated and manageable through systematic decision-making rules.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS12487783B2Function executing device with two types of wireless communication interfaces
Publication Date: 2025.12.02 BROTHER KOGYO KK
  • US12487783B2 patent drawing
  • US12487783B2 patent drawing
  • US12487783B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A function executing device is configured to send a wireless identifier to a communication device via a first type of wireless communication interface for setting up a wireless connection. The function executing device is configured to determine whether the function executing device is in an error state and, if not, to establish the wireless connection via a second type of wireless communication interface. The function executing device operates in a parent state in the wireless connection. Additionally, print data may be received from the communication device. However, if the function executing device is in an error state the wireless connection is not established via the second type of wireless communication interface.