Peripheral Device Configuration via Visual Data Matching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Users face frustration and inefficiency when configuring peripheral devices with information handling systems due to the need for manual search and installation of specific configuration data, with no guarantee of correct data being found, and existing solutions require specific indicators on the devices.

Innovation Solution

A method involving an image capturing device that receives visual data from peripheral devices and matches it with standard images stored in a database to automatically configure the devices for communication with an information handling system, eliminating the need for user-inputted configuration data.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual configuration methods are used, then users can configure peripheral devices, but the process is time-consuming and frustrating

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of configurationVSAvoidconfiguration time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables automatic configuration by having the peripheral device self-identify through visual indicators that the IHS automatically detects and processes, eliminating the need for user intervention in searching and installing configuration data

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical processes (user searching, selecting, and installing configuration data) with an automated optical system using image capture devices to detect visual indicators and automatically retrieve configuration data

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Extent of automation

If special indicators are placed on peripheral devices for automatic recognition, then configuration becomes automated, but the device design is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomatic configurationVSAvoiddevice design flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses universal visual indicator types (stickers, printed patterns, embedded elements) that can be applied to various peripheral devices regardless of manufacturer or model, allowing the same IHS system to automatically configure diverse devices without device-specific modifications

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

Solution Approach 2:

The IHS captures an image of the visual indicator on the peripheral device and uses this visual copy to identify and retrieve the corresponding configuration data, eliminating the need for physical or electronic tags while maintaining automatic recognition

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Reliability

If users manually search for configuration data, then they can find the correct data, but there is no guarantee of locating the correct data

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration accuracyVSAvoidconfiguration process
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system establishes a feedback loop where the visual indicator on the peripheral device provides direct information to the IHS about the required configuration data, ensuring the IHS retrieves the correct configuration without user intervention or guesswork

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS8161201B2Methods and system for configuring a peripheral device with an information handling system
Publication Date: 2012.04.17 DELL PROD LP
  • US8161201B2 patent drawing
  • US8161201B2 patent drawing
  • US8161201B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for configuring a peripheral device in communication with an information handling system (IHS) is disclosed, wherein the method includes receiving visual data associated with the peripheral device and mapping configuration data to the peripheral device based on the visual data. The method further includes utilizing the configuration data to configure the peripheral device in communication with the IHS. An information handling system (IHS) in communication with an image capturing device is further disclosed including a storage device operable to store a database, the database configured to store a standard image of a peripheral device, wherein the standard image is associated with configuration data for the peripheral device. The system further includes a memory coupled to the storage device and a processor to receive visual data associated with the peripheral device from the image capturing device. The processor is operable to execute a software application configured to match the visual data with the standard image to configure the peripheral device based on the configuration data.