Information Processing Apparatus Using Wi-Fi SSID Location Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face confusion and service unavailability when attempting to use multifunction copying machines in stores other than where their apps are designed for, due to differing Wi-Fi SSIDs and lack of clear instructions on alternative service locations.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus with a providing unit, obtaining unit, and informing unit that identifies the user's location through receivable radio wave SSIDs and provides instructions on how to access the desired service, such as directing the user to a nearby store with the required service.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If users attempt to use multifunction copying machines in stores other than where their apps are designed for, then service availability decreases, but user confusion and lack of clear instructions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors the user's current location by detecting Wi-Fi SSIDs and provides real-time feedback about service availability. When the user moves to a store without the desired service, the system immediately notifies them and provides guidance information, creating a closed-loop feedback mechanism that prevents service confusion before it occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The information processing apparatus acts as an intermediary between the user and the multifunction copying machines across different stores. It mediates the service access by translating the user's location and service requirements into actionable guidance, such as directing users to nearby stores with available services or providing alternative service options.
2Ease of operation
If the system provides detailed location and service information to users, then user guidance improves, but information processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The information processing apparatus performs multiple functions using a unified approach: it detects Wi-Fi SSIDs for location identification, determines service availability based on stored store information, calculates nearby stores with alternative services, and provides comprehensive guidance all through a single system. This multi-functional design avoids the need for separate specialized components for each task.
Solution Approach 2:
The system simplifies information processing by changing parameters from detailed individual store analyses to aggregated nearby store information. Instead of processing complex service configurations for each potential destination store, the system provides guidance based on proximity and general service availability, reducing computational complexity while maintaining user guidance effectiveness.
3Measurement precision
If the system monitors user location continuously to provide accurate service availability information, then service guidance accuracy improves, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic action by monitoring Wi-Fi SSIDs at intervals rather than continuously. The location detection is triggered by changes in the wireless environment or user movement patterns, allowing the system to maintain accurate location tracking while consuming less power compared to continuous monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal device leverages its existing Wi-Fi communication capabilities for location detection without requiring additional dedicated hardware or continuous active scanning. The device utilizes ambient Wi-Fi signals that are already present in the environment, turning the wireless infrastructure into a self-service location detection mechanism that consumes minimal additional power.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Effectively guides users to available multifunction copying machine services by determining their location through SSIDs and offering instructions to access the service, enhancing user experience and reducing confusion.
Implementation Method 1
The obtaining unit obtains identification information included in receivable radio waves
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus includes a providing unit, an obtaining unit, and an informing unit. The providing unit provides a certain service to a user. The obtaining unit obtains identification information included in receivable radio waves. The informing unit provides information how a user is able to use the service provided by the providing unit if a place where the user is positioned is not a place where the service is available. The place where the user is positioned is estimated by the identification information obtained by the obtaining unit.