Wi-Fi Direct Setup Using Smartphone Intermediary

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing Wi-Fi Direct communication methods require at least one device to have a QR code reading function, limiting communication between devices without this capability and restricting mobility, as fixedly set devices cannot read QR codes.

Innovation Solution

A communication apparatus and method that allows devices without a QR code reading function to communicate wirelessly by using a smartphone with a QR code reading capability to provide necessary information for GO determination, enabling direct communication between devices using Wi-Fi Direct, even when both devices are immobile.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If QR code reading function is required for direct communication setup, then communication security and parameter configuration are improved, but device compatibility and ease of operation deteriorate for devices without reading capability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication securityVSAvoiddevice compatibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a third device (smartphone or terminal with QR code reading function) as an intermediary to facilitate communication setup between two fixed devices. The third device reads the QR code from one device, extracts communication parameters, and transmits them to the other device via wireless communication, enabling devices without reading capabilities to establish secure connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent divides the communication setup process into separate functions: QR code generation and display on one device, QR code reading and parameter extraction on a third device, and parameter transmission to the target device. This segmentation allows each device to have specialized roles, improving overall system compatibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Manufacturing precision

If QR code reading function is required for direct communication setup, then communication parameter configuration is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to mobility restrictions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter configuration accuracyVSAvoidoperational convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The third device acts as a mobile intermediary that can move between the fixed devices to perform QR code reading and parameter transmission, eliminating the need for the fixed devices themselves to have reading capabilities or to be mobile.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical requirement of physical QR code reading (which requires device mobility or proximity) with wireless parameter transmission from the third device, substituting a mechanical interaction model with a more flexible wireless communication model.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Stability of the object's composition

If both devices are fixedly set without reading capability, then device stability is improved, but ability to establish communication deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice stabilityVSAvoidcommunication capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a mobile third device as an intermediary that bridges the communication gap between two stable, fixed devices. The third device performs the QR code reading and parameter transmission functions that the fixed devices cannot perform themselves, allowing the fixed devices to maintain their stable positions while still establishing communication.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP3476175B1Communication apparatus, communication method, and program for facilitating direct communication
Publication Date: 2023.08.09 CANON KK
  • EP3476175B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3476175B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP3476175B1 patent drawingFigure 5

AI summary

A communication apparatus reads an image relating to a first other communication apparatus and acquires information on the first other communication apparatus from the image. The communication apparatus reads an image relating to a second other communication apparatus and acquires information on the second other communication apparatus from the image. The communication apparatus transmits information on a communication channel to the first other communication apparatus. The communication channel is for use in a role determination process for determining roles of the first other communication apparatus and the second other communication apparatus in direct wireless communication. The communication apparatus transmits the information on the communication channel and the information on the first other communication apparatus to the second other communication apparatus.