Power Path Network Configuration for IoT Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional network configuration methods require manual user input and are inefficient, especially in environments with multiple possible networks, where identifying the correct network connection can be cumbersome and prone to errors.
Innovation Solution
A configuration apparatus and method that utilize a processor and memory to obtain and transmit network configuration data through a power path between devices, allowing automatic network connection by transmitting configuration parameters like SSID and passwords, thereby simplifying the process and improving efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual user input is used for network configuration, then user control is maintained, but configuration time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service configuration by allowing devices to automatically obtain network configuration data through power path transmission. When a device is powered on or connected, it automatically receives SSID, password, and other network parameters from the power supply device or connected device, eliminating the need for manual user input and significantly reducing configuration time
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a power path as an intermediary channel for data transmission. The power supply device or connected device acts as a mediator that automatically transmits network configuration data to the powered device through the existing power connection, simplifying the configuration process without requiring manual intervention
2Measurement precision
If manual network selection is required, then network accuracy is improved, but user burden and operation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically identifies and selects the appropriate network for the device. Through the power path transmission, the device receives pre-configured network parameters including SSID and authentication information, enabling automatic network connection without requiring users to manually search, select, or input network details
Solution Approach 2:
The network configuration data is prepared in advance in the power supply device or connected device. When a new device is powered on or connected, the configuration data is already available and automatically transmitted, eliminating the need for real-time network selection and reducing operational burden on users
3Productivity
If automatic configuration through power path is implemented, then configuration efficiency is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the existing power path infrastructure to serve dual purposes: power delivery and data transmission. By making the power supply device or connected device act as a configuration intermediary, the system uses already-present communication channels (power lines, existing connections) for both power and configuration data, avoiding the need for separate dedicated configuration hardware or protocols
Solution Approach 2:
The power supply device or connected device serves as an intermediary that simplifies the overall system architecture. Instead of requiring direct peer-to-peer communication or complex configuration protocols between devices, the intermediary handles data transmission through the power path, reducing the complexity of individual device implementations while improving overall configuration efficiency
Data Source
AI summary
A configuration apparatus includes a processor and a memory. The processor is configured to obtain first data of a first device, the first data indicating that the first device is ready for network configuration. The memory is configured to store network configuration data of a second device. The processor is further configured to: obtain the network configuration data of the second device, and send the network configuration data to the first device, the network configuration data being used to configure the first device to be in a same network connection state as the second device. A power path exists between the first device and the second device, and at least one of the first data or the network configuration data is transmitted through the power path.