Wireless Device Connection Setup via Terminal Selection Screen
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for connecting printers to information processing devices are complex and inconvenient, requiring users to navigate multiple selection screens and confirm connection methods, which can be cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
A method that acquires information from communication devices and displays a selection screen on the information processing device, allowing users to choose between connecting via an access point or directly to the device, using Wi-Fi Easy Connect (WEC) and Device Provisioning Protocol (DPP) for network setup, simplifying the connection process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the connection method selection screen is displayed on the printer side, then the printer can initiate connection, but the user operation becomes complex and inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional approach by displaying the connection method selection screen on the information processing apparatus (terminal) side instead of the printer side. This allows the terminal to control the connection setup process, presenting connection options to the user and managing the connection establishment, thereby simplifying user operation while maintaining connection versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The information processing apparatus acts as an intermediary between the user and the printer connection process. It receives connection requests, presents connection method options to the user, and manages the connection establishment, thereby reducing the operational complexity that would otherwise fall on the user when dealing with direct printer-side connection initiation
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple connection methods are provided, then connection flexibility is improved, but the selection process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the connection setup process by separating the selection of connection methods from the actual connection establishment. The information processing apparatus presents multiple connection method options (such as direct connection, connection via access point, connection via Bluetooth) as distinct choices, allowing the user to select from various methods without being overwhelmed by a single complex process
Solution Approach 2:
The connection method selection screen dynamically adapts to the current state of both the terminal and printer, presenting only relevant connection methods based on detected capabilities and current connection status. This dynamic adjustment reduces the apparent complexity by showing only applicable options rather than all possible connection methods
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes: acquiring information of a communication apparatus from the communication apparatus capable of wirelessly communicating with an information processing apparatus; displaying, on a display unit, a selection screen for a setting concerning connection between the communication apparatus and a device outside the communication apparatus, based on the acquired information of the communication apparatus; and performing processing according to a selection result on the selection screen. The selection screen is a screen on which a plurality of connection methods for the setting are selectably displayed, and the plurality of connection methods include a first connection method for connecting an access point outside the communication apparatus to the communication apparatus, and a second connection method for connecting, without the access point, the information processing apparatus to the communication apparatus.