Projector Wireless LAN Mode Switching via SSID Projection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Users face difficulties in switching the wireless LAN operating mode of projectors, especially when installed hanging from the ceiling, as direct input to the control panel is challenging, infrared remote control reception is hindered, and cable control paths are unavailable, leading to issues with establishing a stable wireless LAN connection.

Innovation Solution

A wireless LAN connection method that allows a projector to project connection information indicating SSID, with a site survey processing unit to detect nearby access points, enabling the projector to connect as a client to a wireless LAN terminal operating as an access point, and vice versa, using a picture signal generation unit and input unit for user input.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the projector is installed by hanging from the ceiling, then the installation flexibility and space utilization are improved, but the ease of direct input to the control panel and reception of infrared remote control deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation flexibilityVSAvoidease of direct input
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical control methods (direct panel input and infrared remote control) with a wireless LAN-based control system. The projector functions as both an access point and a client in wireless LAN, enabling control commands to be transmitted wirelessly through network protocols, thus eliminating the need for physical access to the control panel or line-of-sight infrared communication.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If the projector operates in access point mode, then the projector can provide wireless network service to terminals, but the user must input SSID, security key, and IP address which increases operational complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewireless network service provisionVSAvoidoperational complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic mode switching capability where the projector can automatically transition between access point mode and client mode based on the operational context. This dynamic adaptation eliminates the need for users to manually configure complex wireless settings, as the system autonomously selects the appropriate mode and establishes connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The projector performs self-configuration and automatic connection establishment when switching between access point and client modes. The system autonomously manages wireless LAN parameters, authentication, and connection routing without requiring user intervention, thereby simplifying operation while maintaining versatile networking capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If the projector switches wireless LAN operating mode, then the projector can adapt to different network environments, but the currently connected wireless LAN communication path is cut off which reduces connection stability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork environment adaptationVSAvoidconnection stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent establishes a preliminary connection path before mode switching occurs. When the projector needs to switch between access point and client modes, it first sets up the new communication route in advance, then transitions the connection. This preliminary action ensures that control commands can continue to be transmitted without interruption during the mode transition, maintaining connection stability while enabling network environment adaptation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS10893552B2Projector having wireless LAN terminal function, method for wireless LAN connection of said projector, and projection system
Publication Date: 2021.01.12 SHARP KK
  • US10893552B2 patent drawing
  • US10893552B2 patent drawing
  • US10893552B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention provides a method for establishing a connection path by way of a wireless LAN path of a projector and a wireless LAN terminal even when the operating mode is switched. The method establishes a wireless LAN connection between a wireless LAN terminal and a projector that can operate as an access point apparatus or a client apparatus of a wireless LAN. The projector projects connection information that indicates SSID, the wireless LAN terminal receives the connection information as input by way of a provided input unit, and further, operates as an access point apparatus. The projector detects the wireless LAN terminal that is operating as an access point device by means of a site survey, and the projector then connects to the wireless LAN terminal as a client apparatus.