Wireless Network Device Automatic WLAN Configuration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Setting up multiple wireless network devices, such as IP cameras, in a network is cumbersome as it requires manual editing of service identifiers and repeated processes, making it time-consuming and inefficient.

Innovation Solution

An automatic configuration method for wireless local area networks (WLANs) that allows a wireless network device to automatically switch between access point and client modes based on the presence of other devices with a preset service identifier, enabling it to connect to a network terminal device and configure other devices within the network.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual editing of service identifier is used to set wireless network devices, then each device can be individually configured, but the process becomes time-consuming and inefficient when setting multiple devices

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of setting wireless network devicesVSAvoidtime required for setting multiple devices
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The wireless network device automatically detects the presence of a wireless router or access point, obtains network configuration information automatically, and configures itself without requiring manual intervention. The device autonomously completes the setting process by searching for available networks, selecting appropriate networks, and applying configuration parameters automatically.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring the wireless network device with default parameters and automatically detecting the network environment before full configuration is needed. The device prepares configuration templates and network information in advance, enabling rapid deployment without repeated manual setup for multiple devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Productivity

If repeated manual setting process is used for multiple wireless network devices, then each device can be configured independently, but the overall setup process becomes complex and inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespeed of setting multiple devicesVSAvoidcomplexity of setting process
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the configuration process for multiple wireless network devices into a single automated operation. Instead of manually configuring each device separately, the system combines detection, selection, and configuration into one integrated process that simultaneously handles multiple devices through automated batch configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The wireless network device is designed with multi-functionality to perform various configuration tasks automatically, including network detection, information acquisition, parameter generation, and configuration application. This universal capability allows a single device to handle the entire setup process for multiple wireless network devices without requiring specialized manual intervention for each step.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Loss of time

If automatic configuration is implemented, then the setting process is simplified and time is saved, but the device must automatically detect and switch between different network modes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetime required for network setupVSAvoidcomplexity of automatic detection and mode switching
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The wireless network device dynamically adjusts its operating mode based on real-time detection of the network environment. The device automatically switches between different modes (e.g., access point mode, client mode) according to the detected presence of wireless routers or access points, enabling adaptive configuration without manual mode selection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements feedback mechanisms where the wireless network device continuously monitors the network environment, detects the presence of other devices, and adjusts its configuration based on this feedback. The device receives signals from the network environment and automatically modifies its operating parameters in response, creating a closed-loop configuration process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS9706487B2Wireless network device and automatic configuration method for linking wireless local area network
Publication Date: 2017.07.11 VIVOTEK INC
  • US9706487B2 patent drawing
  • US9706487B2 patent drawing
  • US9706487B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A wireless network device and an automatic configuration method are provided. When no second wireless network device providing a wireless local area network (WLAN) is found or when a service identifier of the second wireless network device lacks a preset prefix, a first wireless network device operates in an access point (AP) mode with service identifier comprising the preset prefix to receive a first setting signal carrying a terminal service identifier of a network terminal device, switches its operation mode from the AP mode to a client mode to edit its service identifier setting by the terminal service identifier, and connects to the network terminal device. When the service identifier of the second wireless network device comprises the preset prefix, the first wireless network device connects to the second wireless network device to link the network terminal device.