Server-Based Wireless LAN Connection Setup via Code Scanning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current wireless LAN spot systems are cumbersome for setting connections between communication devices due to complex procedures and the inability to dynamically change or increase setting information, leading to potential leakage of confidential data when embedded in images.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising a server that manages and distributes setting information upon request, and a communication apparatus that reads and converts code information into setting information, allowing for dynamic changes and secure transmission, using a URI-based approach to separate the data path from the image encoding.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If setting information is embedded in bar code or image, then connection setting can be automated, but the setting information cannot change once generated and confidential information may be leaked

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection setting automationVSAvoidsetting information flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the setting information into two parts: a static code portion embedded in the bar code/image that can be automatically read, and a dynamic server portion that contains the actual connection settings. This segmentation allows the bar code to remain simple and scannable while the server stores and manages the flexible, updatable connection information.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a server as an intermediary between the bar code and the connection settings. The bar code contains only a reference to the server, not the actual settings. This intermediary allows automatic retrieval of setting information while enabling centralized management, updates, and security control of the connection parameters.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Extent of automation

If setting information is embedded in bar code, then connection can be established automatically, but large amounts of setting information cannot be embedded

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection setting automationVSAvoidamount of setting information
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the actual connection setting information from the bar code and stores it on the server. The bar code contains only a minimal reference (server address and identifier), while the complete setting information is retrieved dynamically from the server. This extraction solves the limitation of bar code storage capacity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent moves the storage dimension from the two-dimensional bar code to the network dimension. Instead of embedding all settings in the bar code, the system uses the network to store and retrieve the setting information, effectively adding a new dimension for information storage and access.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Reliability

If wireless LAN connection setting is performed manually, then connection information can be customized, but the setting procedure becomes complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection setting accuracyVSAvoidsetting time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary action by pre-configuring all connection settings on the server before the actual connection process. When a user scans the bar code, the settings are automatically retrieved and applied without requiring manual configuration. This preliminary setup on the server eliminates time-consuming manual operations while maintaining accurate, customized settings.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS8770475B2System and method for setting connection between information processing devices, communication apparatus, setting information identifier outputting apparatus, and computer program
Publication Date: 2014.07.08 NEC CORP
  • US8770475B2 patent drawing
  • US8770475B2 patent drawing
  • US8770475B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system for setting a connection between information processing devices, according to the present invention includes: a server apparatus which is arranged on a network, collectively manages setting information necessary for a connection between other devices, and distributes requested setting information according to a request from another apparatus; and a communication apparatus which transmits information to the server apparatus. The communication apparatus includes: a first reading unit which makes displayed or printed code information readable, the code information indicating a location of setting information necessary for a connection to another device; a second reading unit which reads the code information; a converting unit which converts the code information into the location of the setting information; an acquiring unit which acquires the setting information from the location of the setting information; and a connection setting unit which performs a connection setting based on the setting information.