Wi-Fi Direct Connection via Access Point Mediation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing Wi-Fi Direct connection methods are complex and inconvenient, requiring multiple user interactions and power-intensive device searches, especially when connecting with devices already known to the user.

Innovation Solution

A Wi-Fi Direct connection system that uses an access point to facilitate connections between devices by allowing a first device to request a connection from a second device, which enters a standby mode and automatically accepts provisioning discovery requests, simplifying the process and reducing power consumption.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional Wi-Fi Direct connection method is used, then connection can be established between devices, but the process is complex and requires multiple user interactions

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveConnection process simplicityVSAvoidConnection process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an access point as an intermediary device that mediates the connection process between two Wi-Fi Direct devices. The access point receives connection requests from one device, transmits them to the target device, and coordinates the provisioning discovery process, thereby simplifying the user interaction required for connection establishment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a standby mode where the target device performs preliminary actions by continuously listening for connection requests through the access point without requiring active device searching. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for complex real-time device discovery and connection negotiation between devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Ease of operation

If devices perform active searching for Wi-Fi Direct connections, then connection can be established, but power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveConnection convenienceVSAvoidBattery power consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of continuous active scanning, the patent implements periodic connection request transmission through the access point. The initiating device sends connection requests at intervals through the access point, and the target device periodically checks for requests in standby mode, significantly reducing power consumption compared to continuous active scanning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts the power-intensive device searching function from the Wi-Fi Direct devices and transfers it to the access point. The access point handles the connection request coordination and device location, allowing the Wi-Fi Direct devices to remain in low-power standby mode while still enabling convenient connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Reliability

If multiple user interactions are required for Wi-Fi Direct connection, then connection can be established, but user convenience decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveConnection establishmentVSAvoidUser manipulation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The access point acts as a mediator that automates the connection negotiation process. It receives simple user-initiated connection requests, coordinates the provisioning discovery exchange between devices, and manages the connection establishment, reducing the number of user interactions required while maintaining reliable connection establishment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables the system to perform self-service by automatically completing the provisioning discovery process once the user initiates a connection request. The devices automatically exchange necessary connection information through the access point without requiring user confirmation or intervention, making the process both reliable and convenient.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP3740027B1Establishment of a wi-fi direct connection between two wireless devices
Publication Date: 2022.08.31 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • EP3740027B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3740027B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3740027B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A Wi-Fi Direct connection method for a plurality of devices and a device having a Wi-Fi Direct connection function are disclosed. The Wi-Fi Direct connection method including connecting the plurality of devices through an access point (AP) for communication, making a request through a first device to a second device from among the plurality of devices through the AP to perform a Wi-Fi Direct connection, changing the state of the second device into a standby mode for the Wi-Fi Direct connection in a response to the request for the Wi-Fi Direct connection, performing provisioning discovery by the first device after making the request for the Wi-Fi Direct connection and exchanging a provisioning method with the second device; and accepting the Wi-Fi Direct connection in response to the second device receiving the provisioning discovery request from the first device which has requested the Wi-Fi Direct connection.