Router-Assisted Network Troubleshooting Web Page

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Users face difficulties in troubleshooting network connection problems due to lack of knowledge about router configurations and light signals, leading to unnecessary ISP calls and potential loss of faith in router brands, with conventional user guides being inconvenient and often unavailable.

Innovation Solution

A system that includes a mediation device (e.g., router) with a storage unit for an assisting web page, which is sent to a main terminal device when a network connection issue occurs, guiding users through troubleshooting steps without requiring additional program installations, and also includes an auxiliary terminal device for downloading support web pages to adjust settings.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If users refer to router user guides (paper or CD) for troubleshooting, then troubleshooting instructions can be found, but the document or CD is often missing and installation is complicated and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetroubleshooting accessibilityVSAvoidinstallation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The troubleshooting web page is prepared in advance and stored in the router's memory before network connection problems occur. When a connection problem is detected, the system immediately sends the pre-prepared web page to the terminal device, eliminating the need for users to search for or install troubleshooting programs from physical media.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the physical mechanical system of user guides (paper manuals, CD-ROMs that require installation) with an electronic web-based system. The troubleshooting information is delivered as a web page through the network, eliminating physical media handling and installation procedures entirely.

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

2Reliability

If users call ISPs for help when network connection problems occur, then professional assistance is obtained, but it creates tremendous human resource and financial burden on ISPs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection problem resolutionVSAvoidISP resource efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables users to diagnose and troubleshoot network connection problems independently by providing automated web-based guidance. The router automatically detects connection issues and sends appropriate troubleshooting web pages to users' terminal devices, allowing users to resolve problems themselves without contacting ISP support staff.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a web page as an intermediary between the router and the user. This intermediary provides structured troubleshooting information and guides users through diagnostic steps, serving as a bridge that reduces the need for direct human intervention from ISPs while still enabling effective problem resolution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of operation

If users blame the router for network connection problems, then they may replace the router, but the problem persists and money is wasted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser confidenceVSAvoidfinancial waste
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The system provides feedback to users about the actual cause of network connection problems through diagnostic web pages. By presenting users with structured troubleshooting steps and diagnostic information, the system helps users understand whether the issue lies with the router, cable connections, or other components, preventing premature replacement of functional routers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS8773979B2System and method for assisting user in troubleshouting network connection problems
Publication Date: 2014.07.08 D-LINK CORP
  • US8773979B2 patent drawing
  • US8773979B2 patent drawing
  • US8773979B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention is to provide a system for assisting a user in troubleshooting network connection problems, which includes a main terminal device (e.g., a computer) and a mediation device (e.g., a router) connected to the main terminal device and storing an assisting web page. Upon receiving a web page request instruction from the main terminal device, the mediation device redirects the web page request instruction to a website address. When the mediation device determines that itself is not connected to the Internet (i.e., a network connection problem occurs), the mediation device will send the assisting web page to the main terminal device. The assisting web page is displayed by the main terminal device through a browser thereof, so as for the user to troubleshoot the network connection problem according to the steps specified in the assisting web page (e.g., to perform a line inspection, a light signal check, etc.).