Proximity-Based Camera Configuration via Mobile Intermediary
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network camera setup methods are time-consuming and difficult for users, requiring complex steps such as connecting to a modem or router using ethernet cables and manual entry of network information.
Innovation Solution
Implementing proximity-based communication methods, including QR codes, Bluetooth, and NFC, to enable direct and simplified connection of cameras to networks using mobile devices, allowing for two-way communication and setup without manual input.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional network camera setup methods are used (connecting to modem/router using ethernet cable, manual network information entry), then reliable network connection is achieved, but setup time and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mobile device as an intermediary between the camera and the network. The mobile device captures network information via QR code, transmits it through proximity-based communication (Bluetooth, NFC, ultrasound) to the camera, enabling automatic network connection without manual input or ethernet cables, thus reducing setup time while maintaining connection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring network information in QR code format and preparing proximity-based communication channels before the actual camera setup. This allows the camera to automatically receive and process network credentials when brought close to the mobile device, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual configuration steps
2Reliability
If traditional network camera setup methods are used (manual password entry, encryption operations), then secure network connection is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system performs self-service by automatically receiving, processing, and configuring network credentials through proximity-based communication. The camera autonomously handles encryption and security protocols without requiring user intervention for manual password entry, thereby maintaining security while dramatically improving ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations (typing passwords, pressing buttons, connecting cables) with automated wireless communication mechanisms. Proximity-based communication technologies (Bluetooth, NFC, ultrasound) substitute for manual input methods, while QR code optical recognition replaces physical cable connections, making the setup process much easier while maintaining security through automated credential transmission
3Ease of operation
If simplified setup methods are implemented (QR code, proximity-based communication), then ease of operation improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile device serves multiple functions: it acts as a QR code scanner, a proximity-based communication transmitter, and a setup interface for the camera. By consolidating these functions in a device users already possess, the system avoids adding separate dedicated components to the camera, thereby improving ease of operation while limiting the increase in overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile device acts as an intermediary that absorbs much of the communication complexity. Instead of requiring the camera to have sophisticated interfaces for multiple communication protocols, the mobile device handles the complexity of QR code generation, proximity protocol selection, and data formatting, transmitting only essential information to the camera through simplified channels
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques are disclosed for systems and methods to provide setup, network connection, and/or other operations for network cameras. The operations may be initiated in response to placing a user device having proximity-based communications circuitry in proximity of a camera having proximity-based communications circuitry. The user device and the camera may exchange information responsive to placing the user device in the proximity of the camera. The information may include network information sent from the user device to the camera and/or camera information sent from the camera to the user device. The network information may include information associated with a network. The camera may be connected to the network using the network information. The camera may be added to list of accessible cameras on the user device when the camera is connected to the network. The proximity-based communications circuitry may be Near Field Communications circuitry.