Peripheral Device Auto-Configuration via RSM Driver Protocol Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing systems for configuring peripheral devices with host devices often require manual intervention, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs due to the need for technical expertise, especially when non-standard protocols are involved, and do not support automatic transmission of configuration data.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that uses a Remote Scanner Management (RSM) driver to detect and configure peripheral devices by treating them as compound devices, enabling bi-directional communication by identifying and supporting compatible protocols, and updating the driver as needed to establish a communication link.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual configuration is used for peripheral devices with non-standard protocols, then configuration can be completed with basic hardware, but technical expertise is required and time is wasted

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveConfiguration easeVSAvoidConfiguration time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The peripheral device automatically performs protocol switching and configuration data reception without requiring manual intervention. The device self-configures by detecting the host device type and autonomously switching to the appropriate communication protocol, eliminating the need for trained personnel to manually configure settings or scan barcodes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The peripheral device pre-loads multiple communication protocols and configuration capabilities before connection. This allows the device to quickly switch between different protocols (such as USB, Bluetooth, WiFi) and immediately begin communication with the host device without requiring manual configuration steps during the connection process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Ease of manufacture

If manual configuration by untrained personnel is attempted, then cost is reduced, but incorrect installation occurs and repair requests increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveInstallation costVSAvoidInstallation reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The peripheral device performs self-configuration and self-diagnosis, automatically detecting the host device type and selecting the appropriate communication protocol. This eliminates the need for trained personnel to perform complex configuration tasks, allowing untrained users to install devices reliably without causing incorrect installations or increasing repair requests.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements automatic feedback mechanisms where the peripheral device monitors communication status and automatically adjusts its configuration based on detected host device responses. This includes automatic protocol switching when initial communication attempts fail and verification of successful configuration, ensuring reliable installation even by untrained personnel.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Adaptability or versatility

If protocol switching is required for configuration data transmission, then communication capability is improved, but manual intervention is required to switch protocols

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveProtocol compatibilityVSAvoidConfiguration simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The peripheral device dynamically switches between different communication protocols based on the detected host device type. The device maintains multiple protocol capabilities and automatically selects the appropriate protocol (USB, Bluetooth, WiFi, etc.) during operation, allowing flexible adaptation to different hosts without requiring manual protocol switching by the user.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system employs an intermediary detection mechanism that identifies the host device type and mediates the protocol selection process. This intermediary layer automatically determines which protocol to use based on host device characteristics and configures the communication interface accordingly, eliminating the need for users to manually switch protocols while maintaining broad protocol compatibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Reliability

If outside personnel are contracted for installation and configuration, then installation reliability is improved, but costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveInstallation reliabilityVSAvoidInstallation cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The peripheral device performs complete self-configuration including automatic protocol detection, host device identification, and communication parameter setup. This eliminates the need to contract outside personnel for installation and configuration tasks, allowing reliable installation by untrained users while significantly reducing labor costs associated with professional installation services.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The device pre-configures multiple communication protocols and detection routines before deployment. This preliminary preparation enables the device to autonomously complete the entire installation process upon connection, including protocol selection and configuration data exchange, eliminating the need for paid installation services while maintaining high installation reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS8082369B2System and method for configuring an electronic device
Publication Date: 2011.12.20 SYMBOL TECHNOLOGIES LLC
  • US8082369B2 patent drawing
  • US8082369B2 patent drawing
  • US8082369B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system and method configures an electronic device. The method comprises detecting a coupling of a peripheral device to a host device. The peripheral device appears as a compound device including an interface device and a communications device. The method comprises identifying a protocol utilized by the communications device. The method comprises generating a communications link between the communications device and the host device when the protocol is compatible with a driver of the host device.