QR-Based Wi-Fi Provisioning Across DPP and Non-DPP Devices

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wireless communication schemes, such as the Device Provisioning Protocol (DPP), face challenges in establishing Wi-Fi connections between devices that do not support DPP, particularly when frequency band compatibility issues arise.

Innovation Solution

A communication device and terminal device configuration that utilizes a QR Code to output code information including a public key and network identification, enabling the device to determine DPP support and establish connections using either the public key or network identification information based on compatibility, thereby facilitating Wi-Fi connections with target access points.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the Device Provisioning Protocol (DPP) is used to establish Wi-Fi connections, then connection establishment is simplified, but compatibility with devices that do not support DPP deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection establishmentVSAvoiddevice compatibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The communication device performs multiple functions: it can both initiate DPP-based connections (when the terminal supports DPP) and act as an access point for non-DPP devices. The device adapts its behavior based on the terminal's capabilities, making the system universally compatible with both DPP and non-DPP devices through a single unified approach

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If the communication device supports both DPP and non-DPP connection methods, then device compatibility is improved, but processing load increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice compatibilityVSAvoidprocessing load
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The communication device dynamically adjusts its operation mode based on the terminal device's capabilities. When a DPP-capable terminal is detected, the device uses DPP-based connection establishment; when a non-DPP terminal is detected, it switches to access point mode. This dynamic adaptation eliminates the need for complex dual-mode processing while maintaining compatibility with both device types

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If the communication device acts as an access point for non-DPP terminals, then compatibility with non-DPP devices is improved, but the complexity of connection management increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenon-DPP device compatibilityVSAvoidconnection management
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connection management process is segmented into distinct paths: one for DPP-capable terminals and another for non-DPP terminals. The device determines which path to follow based on terminal capability detection, separating the complex management logic into manageable, condition-based segments rather than requiring simultaneous handling of all scenarios

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS12526639B2Communication device, and a terminal device for establishing a Wi-Fi connection with a target access point
Publication Date: 2026.01.13 BROTHER KOGYO KK
  • US12526639B2 patent drawing
  • US12526639B2 patent drawing
  • US12526639B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A communication device may output a code image representing code information including a public key of the communication device and specific network identification information. In a first case where the public key included in the code information is used by a terminal device, the communication device may receive first connection information from the terminal device by executing a predetermined communication in which the public key is used with the terminal device, and establish a Wi-Fi connection with a target access point by using the first connection information. In a second case where the specific network identification information included in the code information is used, the communication device may establish a Wi-Fi connection with the terminal device; receive second connection information from the terminal device by using the Wi-Fi connection with the terminal device, and establish a Wi-Fi connection with the target access point by using the second connection information.