Wireless Network Device Commissioning via Discovery Mode
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless network systems require tedious configuration processes, especially when merging devices from multiple networks, which can be cumbersome for users seeking a 'plug-and-play' experience.
Innovation Solution
A wireless network system and method that allows a device from one network to join another without disconnection, using a discovery mode where the joining device broadcasts a message to enter the commissioning mode, enabling simultaneous operation in both networks with maintained communication parameters and user-defined settings without device reset.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a joining device is added to an existing network system, then the device becomes addressable and operable in the network, but the configuration process becomes tedious and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The network device performs preliminary actions by automatically detecting the joining device through broadcasted discovery messages and initiating the commissioning process without requiring manual user intervention. The system prepares and assigns network addresses in advance, eliminating the need for users to manually configure settings during the joining process.
Solution Approach 2:
The joining device performs self-service by automatically broadcasting discovery messages and initiating the commissioning process autonomously. The device self-configures by receiving network parameters from the network device without requiring user intervention, thereby reducing configuration time and effort.
2Adaptability or versatility
If devices are merged from multiple network systems, then network functionality is enhanced, but user effort and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The commissioning mode enables a network device to perform multiple functions: detecting joining devices, assigning network addresses, and transferring network parameters. This multi-functional approach consolidates what would otherwise require separate manual operations into a single automated process, reducing user effort during network merges.
Solution Approach 2:
The commissioning mode acts as an intermediary mechanism between different network systems, facilitating seamless transitions. It mediates the joining process by automatically handling the coordination between the joining device and existing network devices, thereby simplifying the user experience during network merges.
3Ease of operation
If a joining device broadcasts discovery messages to enter commissioning mode, then configuration is automated and simplified, but network communication complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The commissioning mode extracts the complex configuration negotiation process from normal network operation. By separating the joining process into a distinct mode with dedicated discovery messages and commissioning protocols, the system manages complexity in an isolated manner while presenting simplicity to end users.
Solution Approach 2:
The network communication is segmented into distinct phases: normal operation mode and commissioning mode. The commissioning mode handles specialized joining tasks with dedicated protocols, while normal operations continue uninterrupted. This segmentation allows complex joining logic to be isolated without affecting overall system simplicity.
Data Source
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AI summary
A wireless network system and a method of commissioning a wireless network system is described. The network system comprises at least a network device (1) and a joining device (21). The network device (1) comprises a communication interface (2) for transmitting and receiving data over a wireless medium and a first network address of a first network system (30). The joining device (21) comprises a communication interface (2) for transmitting and receiving data over a wireless medium, a second network address of a second network system (35) and a configuration memory (28) for storing at least a network address. The network device (1) and the joining device (21) are configured for operation in a discovery mode, in which said joining device (21) broadcasts a discovery message. Said network device (1) upon reception of said discovery message enters a commissioning mode, in which the network device (1) provides joining information to said joining device (21), comprising at least a third network address of said first network system (30). The joining device (21) accordingly stores said joining information in said configuration memory (28), so that said joining device (21) is addressable in said first network system (30) and said second network system (35).