Automated Wireless Network Installation via Pre-configured Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for installing wireless communications networks require significant user involvement, leading to high chances of human error due to the need for manual entry of complex wireless network configuration information such as SSIDs and encryption keys, making the process time-consuming and prone to mistakes.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that automatically configure client devices to connect to a wireless communications network by using an installation device with non-volatile memory storing pre-configured wireless network configuration information, which is paired with the access point, allowing for automated setup without user input.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual configuration method is used, then user control and flexibility are maintained, but user error rate increases and installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the installation device with all necessary network parameters (SSID, encryption keys, IP settings) before the actual installation process. This pre-prepared configuration data is then automatically transferred to the access point, eliminating the need for manual entry during installation and thereby reducing user errors while maintaining simplicity.
2Productivity
If automated configuration is implemented, then installation time is reduced and user error is minimized, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The installation device serves as an intermediary between the user and the access point configuration process. It automatically manages the complex tasks of retrieving, validating, and transferring configuration parameters, thereby simplifying the user's role to merely initiating the process while achieving fast, error-free installation.
3Stability of the object's composition
If pre-configured installation device is used, then configuration consistency is improved, but initial setup complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The installation device is pre-configured with all necessary network parameters before deployment. This preliminary configuration ensures that the same consistent settings are applied across multiple installations, eliminating configuration drift and ensuring reliability while the initial setup is performed once during device manufacturing or preparation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of method of installing a wireless communications network configures a client device to connect wirelessly to an access point arranged to provide a wireless communications network. The method comprises running an installation program on the client device for configuring the client device to attach to the wireless communications network. The installation program is automatically provided with wireless network configuration information comprising at least a wireless network identifier which identifies traffic using the wireless communications network. The automatic provision of the wireless network configuration information comprising said wireless network identifier is implemented by connecting an installation device comprising non-volatile memory which stores said information, and configuring said installation program to utilize the information stored on said installation device. The wireless network configuration information stored on said installation device corresponds to the wireless network configuration of said access point and both the installation device and the access point were configured with the wireless network configuration information prior to said installation device being connected to any client terminal arranged to connect to said access point.