Proximity-Based Audio Device Network Setup via Signal Intensity

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wireless network systems lack a simple and secure method for connecting multiple audio apparatuses to an access point in a home network, requiring complex operations and potential security risks.

Innovation Solution

A method that uses beacon signals to detect and connect audio apparatuses to a computer, calculates the distance based on signal intensity, and transmits setting information via BLE communication to establish secure connections to an access point, allowing for easy and safe network setup without pairing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional wireless network connection methods are used, then connection can be established, but the connection process becomes complex and security risks increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection securityVSAvoidconnection process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a computer as an intermediary device that mediates the connection between the audio apparatus and the access point. The computer receives the SSID from the audio apparatus, determines proximity via distance calculation, and then transmits the SSID to the access point, simplifying the connection process while enhancing security through proximity verification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual configuration operations with automatic distance-based proximity detection. Instead of requiring users to manually configure network settings, the system automatically calculates distance using signal intensity and triggers connection based on proximity thresholds, substituting mechanical user operations with automated sensing and decision-making.

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

2Ease of operation

If manual configuration of network settings is required, then connection security can be maintained, but user operation becomes complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection setup simplicityVSAvoidconnection setup time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary actions by having the audio apparatus store the SSID in advance and automatically transmit it to the computer when in proximity. The computer pre-calculates distance and automatically initiates the connection process, eliminating the need for users to manually input network settings and significantly reducing setup time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-service connection where the audio apparatus automatically transmits its SSID to the computer, and the computer automatically transmits it to the access point based on proximity detection. This eliminates manual user intervention entirely, allowing the connection process to service itself automatically.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If proximity verification is implemented, then connection security is enhanced, but additional detection steps are required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection securityVSAvoiddetection process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the computer serve multiple functions: it acts as a beacon for the audio apparatus to locate, performs distance calculation via signal intensity measurement, and serves as the transmission intermediary for the SSID. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated devices for each function, simplifying the overall system while maintaining security.

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

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables simple and secure connections of multiple audio apparatuses to an access point, enhancing user experience and security by eliminating the need for complex pairing processes and reducing the risk of incorrect connections.

Implementation Method 1

A distance from the computer to the first apparatus is calculated on a basis of an intensity of a signal received from the first apparatus communicably connected

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSignal intensity measurement:

Data Source

PatentEP3397018B1Information processing method, program, and information processing system
Publication Date: 2021.11.10 SONY GROUP CORP
  • EP3397018B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3397018B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3397018B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

An information processing method according to an embodiment of the present technology which is executed by a computer includes detecting, on a basis of a beacon signal transmitted from a first apparatus, the first apparatus, and communicably connecting the detected first apparatus and the computer. A distance from the computer to the first apparatus is calculated on a basis of an intensity of a signal received from the first apparatus communicably connected. In a case where the calculated distance is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold value, setting information for communicably connecting the first apparatus and a second apparatus is transmitted to the first apparatus.