Wi-Fi Management Frame Networking Without Connection Drop
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network configuration methods for intelligent devices require disconnecting current communication connections, which can disrupt normal communication and impose high capability requirements on the devices, especially when configuring networks using soft APs.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the use of management frames with vendor-specific fields to configure network access without disconnecting current connections, enabling secure and efficient network configuration by broadcasting networking information directly to the intelligent device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If network configuration is performed using soft AP connection method, then the intelligent device can be configured to access the network, but the current communication connection must be disconnected which disrupts normal communication
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network configuration process into two independent paths: (1) maintaining the existing communication connection for normal operations, and (2) establishing a separate soft AP connection for configuration purposes. This allows the intelligent device to handle configuration tasks without disrupting ongoing communications, resolving the contradiction between connection stability and configuration capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a network configuration device as an intermediary that mediates between the intelligent device and the target network. The configuration device receives configuration information from the server, forwards it to the intelligent device through the soft AP connection, and then disconnects. This intermediary approach enables configuration without requiring the intelligent device to maintain persistent connections or disrupt existing communications.
2Adaptability or versatility
If soft AP is started to broadcast configuration information, then network configuration can be achieved, but high capability requirements are imposed on the intelligent device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the intelligent device to autonomously start the soft AP, broadcast configuration requests, receive configuration information from the network configuration device, and complete the network access process without manual intervention. The device independently manages the entire configuration workflow, reducing the need for complex external control systems and lowering overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The network configuration device serves as an intermediary that simplifies the capabilities required of the intelligent device. Instead of requiring the intelligent device to directly communicate with the target network and handle complex authentication, the intermediary configuration device manages these complex interactions, allowing the intelligent device to use simpler communication protocols and reducing its capability requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A device network configuration method and a first device are provided. The method is performed by the first device. The first device interacts with a second device through n management frames, at least one of the n management frames includes a vendor specific field, and the n is a positive integer. The method includes: broadcasting a first management frame without disconnecting a current communication connection, a vendor specific field of the first management frame carrying networking information of a first network, the networking information of the first network being configured to configure the second device to access the first network.