Wireless Node Configuration via BLE Range Limiting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless network node configuration methods are inefficient due to the difficulty in identifying and configuring a large number of nodes, and they are vulnerable to malicious intrusion due to long communication distances and cleartext information transmission, requiring complex technical knowledge and training for installers.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus using a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) function to determine a communication range, send configuration requests, and establish connections with wireless network nodes, ensuring targeted configuration and enhanced security through near-field communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If wireless network nodes are configured using traditional wireless communication methods with long communication ranges, then the configuration can be performed over larger distances, but the system becomes vulnerable to malicious intrusion and eavesdropping due to cleartext information transmission
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the communication parameter from long-range to short-range by using BLE technology with a predetermined communication range. This parameter change inherently limits the communication distance, making it difficult for external attackers to intercept or eavesdrop on the configuration information, thus resolving the security vulnerability while maintaining useful configuration capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional wireless configuration methods are used with large communication ranges, then configuration can be performed remotely, but the complexity of identifying and configuring a large number of nodes increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by limiting the configuration to a local area with a predetermined communication range. This ensures that only nodes within the immediate vicinity can be configured, making node identification and configuration management much simpler. The installer only needs to be aware of nodes in the local area rather than managing potentially hundreds of remote nodes.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If BLE function with predetermined communication range is used, then security against eavesdropping is improved and node identification is simplified, but the configuration must be performed within limited distance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary approach by using a mobile terminal device as the configuration controller. The mobile terminal acts as an intermediary between the installer and the wireless network nodes. The installer operates the mobile terminal within a local area, and the BLE function handles the short-range secure communication. This intermediary setup allows the installer to configure nodes without needing to be physically close to each node while maintaining security and simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a method, an apparatus, and a system of configuring a wireless network node, and a computer readable medium. The method is applicable to a wireless network configuration device having a BLE function, and includes: determining a communication range of the BLE function based on a preset parameter; activating the BLE function, and sending a configuration request to each of wireless network node devices within the determined BLE communication range; receiving an acknowledgment message returned by a wireless network node device in response to the configuration request, and establishing a BLE connection with the wireless network node device that meets a preset condition.