Wireless Node Remote Configuration via Shared Channel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless node configuration methods require physical access and additional hardware, such as user interfaces or non-wireless connections like Ethernet or USB, making it difficult to configure devices like cameras and printers that lack these interfaces or have complex user interfaces.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for remotely configuring wireless nodes using a shared wireless communication channel, where a master node transmits configuration information to a slave node, allowing it to set network parameters like BSSID, channel, and encryption keys without the need for physical access or additional hardware, using IEEE 802.11 standards for communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If physical access methods (user interface or direct hardware connection) are used to configure wireless nodes, then configuration can be performed, but it requires physical access and additional hardware that may not be necessary
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical/physical connection methods (Ethernet cables, USB connections, physical user interface interactions) with wireless communication methods. Configuration data is transmitted through wireless packets between nodes, eliminating the need for physical hardware connections and reducing device complexity while maintaining configuration capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a configuration node as an intermediary that facilitates remote configuration of target nodes. This intermediary node transmits configuration packets wirelessly to the target node, enabling configuration without direct physical access to the target device while maintaining security and control.
2Ease of operation
If wireless configuration packets are transmitted across shared communication channels, then remote configuration is enabled, but security risks from unauthorized access increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary security measures by pre-configuring security credentials and authorization rules in nodes before configuration operations. The configuration node verifies authorization credentials before transmitting configuration packets, and target nodes verify the authenticity of received packets, preventing unauthorized access before it can cause harm.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where configuration nodes receive acknowledgment and status information from target nodes after transmitting configuration packets. This feedback loop allows verification that configuration was successfully applied and enables detection of unauthorized access attempts, providing real-time security monitoring and control.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for connection and remote configuration of wireless nodes communicating on a shared-communications channel. A master node includes a processor configured to generate a frame including configuration information designating network configuration parameters for configuring a remote wireless node for network communications. The master node transmits the frame over the shared communication channel to a slave node to be configured. The slave node includes a receiver for receiving the frame from the master node on the shared communication channel. The slave node includes a processor for configuring the wireless node to communicate according to the network configuration parameters designated by the configuration information in the frame.