Router Integrated User Interface for Independent WAN LAN Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current router configurations require a user interface from a second device to initiate certain functions, especially those related to wireless WAN communications, which can be inconvenient and limit the router's ability to operate independently.
Innovation Solution
Integration of user controls within the router's enclosure allows for direct initiation of actions such as connecting to or disconnecting from a wireless WAN, managing LAN connections, and communicating configuration or state information without relying on an external device interface, using a combination of visual, audible, and tactile indicators and controls.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If router configuration is accomplished using a computer with web browser interface, then users can access configuration pages and status information, but the router cannot initiate functions independently without requiring an external device interface
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the user interface controls directly into the router device, merging previously separate functions (router backend processing and frontend user interface) into a single integrated unit. This allows the router to independently initiate functions while maintaining user interaction capability, resolving the contradiction between operational convenience and system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The router is designed to perform multiple functions including routing, user interface provision, and independent function initiation. By making the router universal and multi-functional, it can operate independently without requiring a separate computer interface, thus improving ease of operation while managing device complexity through consolidated functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the router requires a second device to provide user interface for certain functions, then configuration and control can be achieved, but the router's ability to operate independently is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The user interface is merged directly into the router device, eliminating the requirement for a separate second device. This integration enables the router to operate independently while maintaining ease of user interaction through built-in visual, audible, and tactile indicators and controls.
Solution Approach 2:
The router becomes self-sufficient by incorporating its own user interface capabilities. It can independently provide configuration and control functions without relying on external devices, thus improving adaptability and versatility while maintaining user-friendly operation through integrated interface elements.
3Productivity
If visual, audible, and tactile indicators and controls are integrated into the router enclosure, then the router can communicate and receive commands directly, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple communication and control functions (visual indicators, audible indicators, tactile controls) are merged into a single integrated user interface system within the router enclosure. This consolidation improves network management efficiency by enabling direct router interaction while managing structural complexity through unified design.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated user interface provides multiple communication modalities (visual, audible, tactile) within a single system, enabling the router to independently communicate status and receive commands. This multi-functional approach improves productivity by facilitating direct interaction while containing structural complexity through consolidated architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of initiating router functions includes providing a router device having an integrated user interface having a user control and an indicator. From the router device, a first data link to a wide area network is established. From the router device, a second data link to enable a local area network is established. Via the indicator, state information regarding the first and second data links is communicated. It is determined if the user control has been activated. Upon detecting that the user control has been activated one or both of the first and second data links are modified. Information indicating the modification is communicated via the indicator.