Smart Device Network Access via Optical Identification Codes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for providing wireless network access to smart devices are limited by the need for physical buttons, which are difficult to implement on certain devices and lack feasibility and versatility, especially for devices mounted in hard-to-reach locations.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that uses a server to associate wireless access points with smart devices via identification codes, allowing network access authentication information to be sent directly to the devices, eliminating the need for physical buttons and enhancing accessibility and versatility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If WPS encryption with a single key is used for wireless router configuration, then network access is achieved, but physical buttons must be mounted on smart devices which limits design and is difficult to implement on certain devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical button-pressing system with an optical recognition system. Instead of requiring physical buttons on smart devices, the system uses cameras to capture images of identification codes (QR codes or barcodes) displayed on mobile devices. This substitution eliminates the need for mechanical buttons while maintaining reliable network access authentication.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary identification code (QR code or barcode) as a mediator between the smart device and the wireless router. The identification code serves as a bridge that allows the router to recognize and authenticate the smart device without direct physical interaction or button pressing, thus resolving the contradiction between reliable authentication and design flexibility.
2Reliability
If physical buttons are required for network access, then WPS authentication can be completed, but devices mounted in hard-to-reach locations become inaccessible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical button-pressing operation with a remote optical recognition operation. The identification code can be displayed on a mobile device that is within range of the router's camera, allowing authentication to be performed without physically touching or being near the smart device's button. This enables devices mounted in hard-to-reach locations to be easily authenticated.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a visual copy (identification code displayed on mobile device screen) instead of the original physical button interface. The mobile device acts as a remote control interface, copying the authentication function to a location that is easily accessible to the user, thus resolving the accessibility issue for mounted devices.
3Reliability
If solid buttons are mounted on smart devices without input screens, then network access is possible, but the design is limited and aesthetic quality suffers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for mechanical buttons by substituting them with an optical recognition system. The smart device only needs to display an identification code on its screen (or have it printed on a label), and the router's camera captures this code for authentication. This removes the need for additional mechanical components while maintaining network access capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the authentication function from the physical button and relocates it to the optical recognition system. The identification code contains all necessary authentication information, allowing the authentication function to be separated from the device's physical structure. This simplifies the device design by removing unnecessary mechanical components.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a method, apparatus and system for readily and conveniently getting network access for a smart device. The method for network access for a smart device includes receiving, by a server comprising a processor and a non-transitory storage medium, a first identification identifying a wireless access point and a first terminal identifier; receiving a second identification identifying a smart device and a second terminal identifier; associating the wireless access point with the smart device if the first terminal identifier corresponds to the second terminal identifier, and sending the second identification for the associated smart device to the wireless access point. The wireless access point provides network access authentication information to the smart device so that the smart device can get access to a network provided by the wireless access point with the network access authentication information.