Router Collaboration via Cradle Intermediary
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable wireless routers face issues with slow and costly wireless links to internet service providers, as well as poor signal strength and battery life limitations.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that establish a primary and alternate data exchanger link between a router and an internet service provider, with the alternate data exchanger embedded in a cradle or wireless gateway, allowing automatic switching to improve data transfer rates and signal strength, and extending battery life by providing a power source.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If wireless links to internet service provider are used, then portability and flexibility are improved, but data transfer speed and cost-effectiveness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a cradle as an intermediary device between the portable router and the wired network infrastructure. The cradle contains a wired data exchanger that connects to the internet service provider through a wired connection, serving as a mediator that enables high-speed internet access when the router is docked, while maintaining the router's portability when used independently with wireless connections
2Adaptability or versatility
If wireless links to internet service provider are used, then portability is improved, but usage cost deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cradle acts as an intermediary that provides access to lower-cost wired internet service provider connections. When the portable router is placed in the cradle, it automatically or manually switches from the expensive wireless data exchanger to the more cost-effective wired data exchanger in the cradle, reducing usage costs while maintaining internet connectivity
3Adaptability or versatility
If router operates continuously on battery, then portability is improved, but operating duration deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cradle provides self-service functionality by automatically recharging the router's battery when docked. The power interface in the cradle connects to a power source and automatically supplies power to the router's battery interface, allowing the router to recharge without user intervention and extend its operating duration for subsequent portable use
4Reliability
If signal strength is increased, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data exchanger functionality into two separate devices: a wireless data exchanger in the portable router for mobile use, and a wired data exchanger in the stationary cradle for high-reliability connections. This segmentation allows each device to be optimized for its specific function without adding complexity to the portable router, as the wired connection capabilities are housed in the cradle
Data Source
AI summary
A router system is disclosed. The router system comprises a wireless router and a cradle comprising a router interface configured to receive the router. One or more connections are positioned at the router interface for communicating with the router. Methods and systems for communicating between a router and the internet are also disclosed.