CA2688181A1 - Method and apparatus for remotely connecting an electronics device to a wireless network - Google Patents
Method and apparatus for remotely connecting an electronics device to a wireless network Download PDFInfo
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- CA2688181A1 CA2688181A1 CA2688181A CA2688181A CA2688181A1 CA 2688181 A1 CA2688181 A1 CA 2688181A1 CA 2688181 A CA2688181 A CA 2688181A CA 2688181 A CA2688181 A CA 2688181A CA 2688181 A1 CA2688181 A1 CA 2688181A1
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- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 23
- 238000013500 data storage Methods 0.000 claims description 9
- 230000004913 activation Effects 0.000 claims description 3
- 230000003993 interaction Effects 0.000 abstract description 3
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 11
- 230000006854 communication Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000012795 verification Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000002093 peripheral effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000000060 site-specific infrared dichroism spectroscopy Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000007175 bidirectional communication Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012790 confirmation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000003032 molecular docking Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000012546 transfer Methods 0.000 description 1
Classifications
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04W—WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS
- H04W88/00—Devices specially adapted for wireless communication networks, e.g. terminals, base stations or access point devices
- H04W88/02—Terminal devices
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04W—WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS
- H04W12/00—Security arrangements; Authentication; Protecting privacy or anonymity
- H04W12/08—Access security
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04W—WIRELESS COMMUNICATION NETWORKS
- H04W48/00—Access restriction; Network selection; Access point selection
- H04W48/16—Discovering, processing access restriction or access information
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- Computer Networks & Wireless Communication (AREA)
- Signal Processing (AREA)
- Computer Security & Cryptography (AREA)
- Mobile Radio Communication Systems (AREA)
Abstract
A method of quickly and easily connecting a station that has no user means of network selection or of inputting required passwords in order to connect to a network. The station communicates and interacts with a client in order to communicate a list of more networks, and their respective details, than the client may be able to detect itself, as well to receive instructions as to which network to connect to and any additional required data, such as a password, thereby resulting a connecting the station to the wireless network with minimal interaction from a user, thereby minimizing the possibility for errors and negating the need for any user interaction tools on the station (for example keypad, display).
Description
METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR REMOTELY CONNECTING AN ELECTRONICS
DEVICE TO A WIRELESS NETWORK
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application relates to Canadian Patent Application No. 2,646,871 filed on 17 December 2008, entitled "Handheld Electronic Device and Docking Station Wireless System," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
100021 Embodiments of this invention relate to a method for connecting a wireless electronic device, henceforth known as a station, to a wireless network by utilizing another device, henceforth known as a client. The method addresses and overcomes certain key limitations of both the station and the client, such as, no input means on the station to select and access dedicated networks itself, and the inability of some clients to detect all available networks, in the case of a wireless networks. In the practice of the embodiments of the invention, the user of the client need only know the password of the network to connect to it, and in the cases of unprotected networks would not need even the password in order to connect. The client obtains all the network configuration data, such as network name and encryption, however not the password, from the station and, in return, sends the password of the encrypted network it desires to connect to back to the station so it can then connect to that network. The embodiments of the invention include the network configuration data receiving client and the network configuration data transmitting station.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
100031 Today there are many networks, many being wireless utilizing a user-configurable network name, or SSID, such that if a new device wants to join a specific network it needs to scan the area, detect the available networks and then connect to it.
It is even more complicated if the desired network is password protected. However, such networks suffer from several problems.
100041 One problem is that connecting to a wireless network is intimidating for many people and a serious technical challenge for anyone who is not comfortable with such technology or networks. Many people would not have any idea how to detect a network and then provide the relevant information to the device that wants to connect in order to allow it to connect. This is much worse for the user if the network is encrypted with a password.
100051 Further, it requires the user to know the details of the network to which they want to connect. For example, for an encrypted network, they need to know the network name, or SSID, the password and the encryption protocol used on the network, such as the WPA or WEP encryption schemes.
100061 Further, more and more electronic devices within the home and office are using both wired and wireless protocols such as Wi-FI or Bluetooth to communicate across both wide and local area networks. Users wanting to connect to those devices need to be able to connect to, and often switch between, these networks quickly and easily.
100071 Further, wireless devices that desire to connect to encrypted wireless network must have an input means, such as a keyboard and display, that allow a user to input the password to the encrypted network. This is not always feasible or appropriate for some
DEVICE TO A WIRELESS NETWORK
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application relates to Canadian Patent Application No. 2,646,871 filed on 17 December 2008, entitled "Handheld Electronic Device and Docking Station Wireless System," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
100021 Embodiments of this invention relate to a method for connecting a wireless electronic device, henceforth known as a station, to a wireless network by utilizing another device, henceforth known as a client. The method addresses and overcomes certain key limitations of both the station and the client, such as, no input means on the station to select and access dedicated networks itself, and the inability of some clients to detect all available networks, in the case of a wireless networks. In the practice of the embodiments of the invention, the user of the client need only know the password of the network to connect to it, and in the cases of unprotected networks would not need even the password in order to connect. The client obtains all the network configuration data, such as network name and encryption, however not the password, from the station and, in return, sends the password of the encrypted network it desires to connect to back to the station so it can then connect to that network. The embodiments of the invention include the network configuration data receiving client and the network configuration data transmitting station.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
100031 Today there are many networks, many being wireless utilizing a user-configurable network name, or SSID, such that if a new device wants to join a specific network it needs to scan the area, detect the available networks and then connect to it.
It is even more complicated if the desired network is password protected. However, such networks suffer from several problems.
100041 One problem is that connecting to a wireless network is intimidating for many people and a serious technical challenge for anyone who is not comfortable with such technology or networks. Many people would not have any idea how to detect a network and then provide the relevant information to the device that wants to connect in order to allow it to connect. This is much worse for the user if the network is encrypted with a password.
100051 Further, it requires the user to know the details of the network to which they want to connect. For example, for an encrypted network, they need to know the network name, or SSID, the password and the encryption protocol used on the network, such as the WPA or WEP encryption schemes.
100061 Further, more and more electronic devices within the home and office are using both wired and wireless protocols such as Wi-FI or Bluetooth to communicate across both wide and local area networks. Users wanting to connect to those devices need to be able to connect to, and often switch between, these networks quickly and easily.
100071 Further, wireless devices that desire to connect to encrypted wireless network must have an input means, such as a keyboard and display, that allow a user to input the password to the encrypted network. This is not always feasible or appropriate for some
2 electronics devices, such as consumer electronics devices like music player stations. It adds cost, complexity and can impact the esthetic appeal of these consumer electronics.
100081 Further, clients, for example handheld wireless devices such as smartphones, could be used to tell the station which network to connect to and provide it with the password.
However, many clients have limited or no support to connect to point to point networks as they are designed for business users with the primary purpose of working in shared network environments. In addition, some clients cannot detect certain networks around them and therefore may not be able to detect a desired network. If the client cannot detect the networks around them, then they are not capable of instructing the station.
100091 There is, therefor, a need for a method to allow wireless stations to connect to networks quickly, easily and without having to add additional complexity added to them.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
100101 In order that the embodiments of the invention may be better understood, a preferred embodiment will now be described by way of example only wherein 100111 Fig. 1 is a block diagram representing the architecture of a handheld device according to the prior art;
100121 Fig. 2 is a diagram representing the existing method of connecting a station to a wireless network via an external client according to the prior art;
100131 Fig. 3 is a diagram representing the existing method of connecting a station to a wireless network utilizing direct inputs to the station according to the prior art;
100081 Further, clients, for example handheld wireless devices such as smartphones, could be used to tell the station which network to connect to and provide it with the password.
However, many clients have limited or no support to connect to point to point networks as they are designed for business users with the primary purpose of working in shared network environments. In addition, some clients cannot detect certain networks around them and therefore may not be able to detect a desired network. If the client cannot detect the networks around them, then they are not capable of instructing the station.
100091 There is, therefor, a need for a method to allow wireless stations to connect to networks quickly, easily and without having to add additional complexity added to them.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
100101 In order that the embodiments of the invention may be better understood, a preferred embodiment will now be described by way of example only wherein 100111 Fig. 1 is a block diagram representing the architecture of a handheld device according to the prior art;
100121 Fig. 2 is a diagram representing the existing method of connecting a station to a wireless network via an external client according to the prior art;
100131 Fig. 3 is a diagram representing the existing method of connecting a station to a wireless network utilizing direct inputs to the station according to the prior art;
3 100141 Fig. 4 is a diagram representing an embodiment of the invention wherein a client wirelessly communicates with a station to connect the station to a wireless network;
100151 Fig. 5 is a diagram representing an embodiment of the invention wherein a client communicates with a station via wired means to connect the station to a wireless network;
100161 Fig. 6 is a software flowchart representing the operational relationship within and between a client and the station in order to connect the station to a wireless network, per an embodiment of the invention; and 100171 Fig. 7 represents a software flowchart representing the operational relationship within and between a music station and a client.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
100181 It is an object of the embodiments of the present invention to provide a method to allow users to connect their wireless electronics device, henceforth known as a station, to a desired network quickly and easily through communication with another wireless device, henceforth known as a client. The station, which has no user input means such as a keyboard, is much more capable of receiving the list of available wireless networks than the client, therefore sends the network data, sans encryption password, to the client, which does have user input means such as a keyboard. The user selects which network they desire the station to connect to and if it is encrypted, they also enter the password of that network. The selected network and potential password are sent back to the station thereby allowing the station to connect to the desired wireless, and potentially encrypted, network.
100151 Fig. 5 is a diagram representing an embodiment of the invention wherein a client communicates with a station via wired means to connect the station to a wireless network;
100161 Fig. 6 is a software flowchart representing the operational relationship within and between a client and the station in order to connect the station to a wireless network, per an embodiment of the invention; and 100171 Fig. 7 represents a software flowchart representing the operational relationship within and between a music station and a client.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
100181 It is an object of the embodiments of the present invention to provide a method to allow users to connect their wireless electronics device, henceforth known as a station, to a desired network quickly and easily through communication with another wireless device, henceforth known as a client. The station, which has no user input means such as a keyboard, is much more capable of receiving the list of available wireless networks than the client, therefore sends the network data, sans encryption password, to the client, which does have user input means such as a keyboard. The user selects which network they desire the station to connect to and if it is encrypted, they also enter the password of that network. The selected network and potential password are sent back to the station thereby allowing the station to connect to the desired wireless, and potentially encrypted, network.
4 100191 Accordingly, in one aspect, the embodiments of the invention provide a client comprising [00201 a housing;
100211 activation on-off means;
100221 display face;
100231 means for receiving and transmitting data;
100241 user controls and instructing means to enable device to perform tasks;
100251 characterized in further comprising [00261 network identification data storage means for storing network identification data;
100271 means for receiving said network identification data for storage in said storage means;
100281 means for operably using to said network identification data to wirelessly transmit complete network data to connect to a network; and 100291 means for wirelessly transmitting complete network data to other devices.
100301 By the term "network identification data" in this specification and claims is meant digital data that comprises network name and other configuration settings to identify a specific network and may optionally include network encryption type.
100311 By the term "complete network data" in this specification and claims is meant digital data that comprises said network identification data and associated password or similar type data that allows user access to the network.
100321 Accordingly, in one aspect, the embodiments of the invention provide a station comprising 100331 a housing;
100341 means for receiving and transmitting data;
100351 network data storage means for wirelessly receiving and storing a plurality of network identification data and complete network data;
100361 means for transmitting said network identification data to other devices;
100371 means for receiving complete network data for storage in said network data storage means; and [00381 means for operably using to said complete network data to wirelessly connect to a network.
100391 The connection means further comprises wired or wireless means.
100401 In a preferred aspect, the station, as hereinabove defined, in communication with speaker means external of said station.
100411 In one embodiment, the station comprises a printed circuit board (PCB) in which resides a central processor unit (CPU) connected to input/output peripherals.
100421 There are five significant stages in setting up the connections for both the client and the station. Firstly, the station scans for available networks and obtains the network identification data for each. Secondly, it sends all the network identification data to the client.
Thirdly, the client allows the user to select a network and input a password if required, thereby creating the complete network data. Fourthly, the complete network data is transmitted back to the station. Finally, the station uses the complete network data to connect to the network.
100431 In a yet further aspect, the embodiments of the invention provide a music data wirelessly transmittable and receivable system comprising in combination a handheld device, as hereinabove defined, with a wirelessly receivable station as hereinabove defined. Thus, the embodiments of the present invention allow a user to overcome the shortcomings of existing systems by removing the need to physically connect the wireless device to the media station to connect both devices to a network. This is done by adding wireless support to the media station, either by integrating the technology directly into the media station, or by creating a peripheral accessory that can interface and transfer data to existing media stations. The embodiments of the present invention provide wireless support, and also preferably offers numerous processes, such as, to ensure security over risky networks; to ensure protocols and procedures are in place should the connection between the media station and the wireless device be lost; to manage multiple wireless devices potentially connected to the media station at the same time, to support multiple wireless handset manufacturers; notwithstanding each have different software operating systems, to minimize wireless handset power dissipation; and to minimize complexity of installation or use.
100441 The preferred method operation involves a music station with Wi-Fi capabilities that should preferably be connected to wireless access point that offers access however user communication means such as a keyboard or display. This reduces cost and complexity however makes it more difficult to configure to user needs. A
client, such as an Apple iPhone g, iPod touch or BlackBerry device will preferably connect to the music station through Wi-Fi means via the music station's independent, henceforth known as ad hoc, Wi-Fi connection. However, there is no limitation in having the client connect to the music station through wired means, such as an Ethernet cable. If done wirelessly, the client will disconnect temporarily from the Wi-Fi network to join the music stations' ad hoc network in order to control it.
100451 Once connected to the music station, the client can receive a list of all the Wi-Fi wireless networks that it sees, including whether it is encrypted, and if so, what encryption scheme it uses, such as WPA, WPA2 or WEP, however it does not receive the password to the network. The client allows the user to see a list of these networks from a pull down list so that the user never even needs to type in the name of the network and then to choose which network the user would like to connect to.
100461 If the user selects a non-encrypted network the client informs the music station and the music station proceeds to connect to the desired wireless network, without the user ever having to have actually typed the network name, thereby reducing any change of user input error.
100471 If the user selects an encrypted network, the client requests the user to input the password to the desired network. Once entered, the desired network, the encryption type (which is transparent to the user as they never need to worry what type of encryption format is used) and the password are sent to the music station to allow it to access the desired encrypted network. Once again, the user only needs to type the minimum amount of data required to access the network. The name of the network and the encryption time never need to be actually type in.
100481 Once the music station connects to the desired network, the client proceeds to also connect to this network and even if it could not detect it earlier, it now knows the name and encryption time so once again, only the password needs to be entered if the client desires to connect to the same network as the music station, in order to further control it, for example. If the client and music station were physically connected via an Ethernet wire or some other means, the physical connection can be removed if the client no longer needs to control the music station or if the client intends to join the same wireless network as the music station.
[00491 The embodiments of the invention obviate the need for the client to be capable of being able to detect all available networks or being able to forced to understand and select the network specifics, such as the network name and possible encryption format, and to type theme in manually.
100501 Further, the embodiments of the invention obviate the need for the station have to input or display means to allow users to manually type, at minimum, the password to the desired network thereby saving complexity, cost and potential esthetic issues.
Minimal interaction with users minimizes the possibility of human error and significantly reduces the complexity required to manage such errors.
100511 Fig. 1 is a block diagram representing the architecture of a handheld device according to the prior art. The prior art handheld device architecture may include a CPU 1, a network data Storage media 2, a CPU memory Frame buffer 3, a user interface 4, an I/O
interface 5, and a wireless modem 6.
100521 Fig. 2 is a diagram representing the existing method of connecting a station to a wireless network according via an external client to the prior art shown generally as 20. A
client 22 manually types in, at minimum, the network name, the encryption type and the password to the network. The complete network data 24 is the transmitted to the station 26 which receives the data and then uses the network data 28 to obtain access to the network 30.
100531 Fig. 3 is a diagram representing the existing method of connecting a station to a wireless network according via an external client to the prior art shown generally as 40. A
client 42 manually types in, at minimum, the network name, the encryption type and the password to the network. The complete network data 44 is the transmitted to the station 46 which receives the data and then uses the network data 48 to obtain access to the network 50.
100541 Fig. 4 is a diagram representing the existing method of connecting a station to a wireless network utilizing direct inputs according to the prior art shown generally as 60. A
station 62 requires the user to type in, at minimum, the network name, the encryption type and the password to the network via a station and human bi-directional communication means 64.
The complete network data 66 is then used to obtain access to the network 68.
100551 Fig. 5 is a diagram of a wireless network generally shown as 80, with a music station 82 that desires to become a part of the wireless network 84 within the grouping available wireless networks 86 that may or may not be completely visible to client 88. Music station 82 wirelessly transmits to network identification data 90 thereby allowing Client 88 to add necessary encryption details (i.e. password) to network identification data 90 thereby creating complete network data 92 and return it to music station 82 to allow it to wirelessly provide complete network data to network 84 in order to wirelessly join network 84.
100561 Fig. 6 is a diagram of a wireless network generally shown as 100, with a music station 102 that desires to become a part of the wireless network 104 within the grouping available wireless networks 106 that may or may not be completely visible to client 108. Music station 102 wirelessly transmits to network identification data via wired connection 90 thereby allowing Client 108 to add necessary encryption details (i.e. password) and return complete network data along wired connection 90 to allow it to wirelessly provide complete network data 114 to network 104 in order to wirelessly join network 104.
100571 Fig. 7 represents a software flowchart representing the operational relationship within and between a music station and client according to an embodiment of the invention wherein 200 is in respect of the station and 300 of the client. The client may request a direct connection to the station, and the station may accept the client's request.
The client may request that the station provide the client with a list of surrounding wireless access points, and the station may accept the client's request. The station may perform a wireless scan for any surrounding wireless access points. The station may then send a list of any available wireless access points found during the scan to the client. The client may accept the list of available wireless access points from the station and present the list to the end user of the client.
The client may request that the station connect to a wireless access point selected from the list, for example, by the end user. The client may receive connection credentials from the end user, if required for the selected wireless access point, and send them to the station. The station may accept the client's request, and may verify that it can connect to the selected wireless access point using the credentials sent by the client. The station may send the results of the connection verification back to the client.
100581 The client may receive the results of the attempted verification from the station, and, if the results indicate that the station cannot connect to the selected wireless access point, the client may request that the end user verify the connection credentials. After the end user verifies the connection credentials, for example, by re-entering them into the client, the client may send the connection credentials back to the station with a request to verify the connection again. If the results of the attempted verification indicate that the station can connect to the selected wireless access point, the client may send a confirmation to the station of the request to connect to the selected wireless access point. The station may accept the confirmed request from the client, and may disconnect from the client and connect to the selected wireless access point. The client may disconnect from the station and also connect to the selected wireless access point.
Although this disclosure has described and illustrated certain preferred embodiments of the invention, it is to be understood that the invention is not restricted to those particular embodiments. Rather, the invention includes all embodiments which are functional or physical equivalents of the specific embodiments and features that have been described and illustrated.
100211 activation on-off means;
100221 display face;
100231 means for receiving and transmitting data;
100241 user controls and instructing means to enable device to perform tasks;
100251 characterized in further comprising [00261 network identification data storage means for storing network identification data;
100271 means for receiving said network identification data for storage in said storage means;
100281 means for operably using to said network identification data to wirelessly transmit complete network data to connect to a network; and 100291 means for wirelessly transmitting complete network data to other devices.
100301 By the term "network identification data" in this specification and claims is meant digital data that comprises network name and other configuration settings to identify a specific network and may optionally include network encryption type.
100311 By the term "complete network data" in this specification and claims is meant digital data that comprises said network identification data and associated password or similar type data that allows user access to the network.
100321 Accordingly, in one aspect, the embodiments of the invention provide a station comprising 100331 a housing;
100341 means for receiving and transmitting data;
100351 network data storage means for wirelessly receiving and storing a plurality of network identification data and complete network data;
100361 means for transmitting said network identification data to other devices;
100371 means for receiving complete network data for storage in said network data storage means; and [00381 means for operably using to said complete network data to wirelessly connect to a network.
100391 The connection means further comprises wired or wireless means.
100401 In a preferred aspect, the station, as hereinabove defined, in communication with speaker means external of said station.
100411 In one embodiment, the station comprises a printed circuit board (PCB) in which resides a central processor unit (CPU) connected to input/output peripherals.
100421 There are five significant stages in setting up the connections for both the client and the station. Firstly, the station scans for available networks and obtains the network identification data for each. Secondly, it sends all the network identification data to the client.
Thirdly, the client allows the user to select a network and input a password if required, thereby creating the complete network data. Fourthly, the complete network data is transmitted back to the station. Finally, the station uses the complete network data to connect to the network.
100431 In a yet further aspect, the embodiments of the invention provide a music data wirelessly transmittable and receivable system comprising in combination a handheld device, as hereinabove defined, with a wirelessly receivable station as hereinabove defined. Thus, the embodiments of the present invention allow a user to overcome the shortcomings of existing systems by removing the need to physically connect the wireless device to the media station to connect both devices to a network. This is done by adding wireless support to the media station, either by integrating the technology directly into the media station, or by creating a peripheral accessory that can interface and transfer data to existing media stations. The embodiments of the present invention provide wireless support, and also preferably offers numerous processes, such as, to ensure security over risky networks; to ensure protocols and procedures are in place should the connection between the media station and the wireless device be lost; to manage multiple wireless devices potentially connected to the media station at the same time, to support multiple wireless handset manufacturers; notwithstanding each have different software operating systems, to minimize wireless handset power dissipation; and to minimize complexity of installation or use.
100441 The preferred method operation involves a music station with Wi-Fi capabilities that should preferably be connected to wireless access point that offers access however user communication means such as a keyboard or display. This reduces cost and complexity however makes it more difficult to configure to user needs. A
client, such as an Apple iPhone g, iPod touch or BlackBerry device will preferably connect to the music station through Wi-Fi means via the music station's independent, henceforth known as ad hoc, Wi-Fi connection. However, there is no limitation in having the client connect to the music station through wired means, such as an Ethernet cable. If done wirelessly, the client will disconnect temporarily from the Wi-Fi network to join the music stations' ad hoc network in order to control it.
100451 Once connected to the music station, the client can receive a list of all the Wi-Fi wireless networks that it sees, including whether it is encrypted, and if so, what encryption scheme it uses, such as WPA, WPA2 or WEP, however it does not receive the password to the network. The client allows the user to see a list of these networks from a pull down list so that the user never even needs to type in the name of the network and then to choose which network the user would like to connect to.
100461 If the user selects a non-encrypted network the client informs the music station and the music station proceeds to connect to the desired wireless network, without the user ever having to have actually typed the network name, thereby reducing any change of user input error.
100471 If the user selects an encrypted network, the client requests the user to input the password to the desired network. Once entered, the desired network, the encryption type (which is transparent to the user as they never need to worry what type of encryption format is used) and the password are sent to the music station to allow it to access the desired encrypted network. Once again, the user only needs to type the minimum amount of data required to access the network. The name of the network and the encryption time never need to be actually type in.
100481 Once the music station connects to the desired network, the client proceeds to also connect to this network and even if it could not detect it earlier, it now knows the name and encryption time so once again, only the password needs to be entered if the client desires to connect to the same network as the music station, in order to further control it, for example. If the client and music station were physically connected via an Ethernet wire or some other means, the physical connection can be removed if the client no longer needs to control the music station or if the client intends to join the same wireless network as the music station.
[00491 The embodiments of the invention obviate the need for the client to be capable of being able to detect all available networks or being able to forced to understand and select the network specifics, such as the network name and possible encryption format, and to type theme in manually.
100501 Further, the embodiments of the invention obviate the need for the station have to input or display means to allow users to manually type, at minimum, the password to the desired network thereby saving complexity, cost and potential esthetic issues.
Minimal interaction with users minimizes the possibility of human error and significantly reduces the complexity required to manage such errors.
100511 Fig. 1 is a block diagram representing the architecture of a handheld device according to the prior art. The prior art handheld device architecture may include a CPU 1, a network data Storage media 2, a CPU memory Frame buffer 3, a user interface 4, an I/O
interface 5, and a wireless modem 6.
100521 Fig. 2 is a diagram representing the existing method of connecting a station to a wireless network according via an external client to the prior art shown generally as 20. A
client 22 manually types in, at minimum, the network name, the encryption type and the password to the network. The complete network data 24 is the transmitted to the station 26 which receives the data and then uses the network data 28 to obtain access to the network 30.
100531 Fig. 3 is a diagram representing the existing method of connecting a station to a wireless network according via an external client to the prior art shown generally as 40. A
client 42 manually types in, at minimum, the network name, the encryption type and the password to the network. The complete network data 44 is the transmitted to the station 46 which receives the data and then uses the network data 48 to obtain access to the network 50.
100541 Fig. 4 is a diagram representing the existing method of connecting a station to a wireless network utilizing direct inputs according to the prior art shown generally as 60. A
station 62 requires the user to type in, at minimum, the network name, the encryption type and the password to the network via a station and human bi-directional communication means 64.
The complete network data 66 is then used to obtain access to the network 68.
100551 Fig. 5 is a diagram of a wireless network generally shown as 80, with a music station 82 that desires to become a part of the wireless network 84 within the grouping available wireless networks 86 that may or may not be completely visible to client 88. Music station 82 wirelessly transmits to network identification data 90 thereby allowing Client 88 to add necessary encryption details (i.e. password) to network identification data 90 thereby creating complete network data 92 and return it to music station 82 to allow it to wirelessly provide complete network data to network 84 in order to wirelessly join network 84.
100561 Fig. 6 is a diagram of a wireless network generally shown as 100, with a music station 102 that desires to become a part of the wireless network 104 within the grouping available wireless networks 106 that may or may not be completely visible to client 108. Music station 102 wirelessly transmits to network identification data via wired connection 90 thereby allowing Client 108 to add necessary encryption details (i.e. password) and return complete network data along wired connection 90 to allow it to wirelessly provide complete network data 114 to network 104 in order to wirelessly join network 104.
100571 Fig. 7 represents a software flowchart representing the operational relationship within and between a music station and client according to an embodiment of the invention wherein 200 is in respect of the station and 300 of the client. The client may request a direct connection to the station, and the station may accept the client's request.
The client may request that the station provide the client with a list of surrounding wireless access points, and the station may accept the client's request. The station may perform a wireless scan for any surrounding wireless access points. The station may then send a list of any available wireless access points found during the scan to the client. The client may accept the list of available wireless access points from the station and present the list to the end user of the client.
The client may request that the station connect to a wireless access point selected from the list, for example, by the end user. The client may receive connection credentials from the end user, if required for the selected wireless access point, and send them to the station. The station may accept the client's request, and may verify that it can connect to the selected wireless access point using the credentials sent by the client. The station may send the results of the connection verification back to the client.
100581 The client may receive the results of the attempted verification from the station, and, if the results indicate that the station cannot connect to the selected wireless access point, the client may request that the end user verify the connection credentials. After the end user verifies the connection credentials, for example, by re-entering them into the client, the client may send the connection credentials back to the station with a request to verify the connection again. If the results of the attempted verification indicate that the station can connect to the selected wireless access point, the client may send a confirmation to the station of the request to connect to the selected wireless access point. The station may accept the confirmed request from the client, and may disconnect from the client and connect to the selected wireless access point. The client may disconnect from the station and also connect to the selected wireless access point.
Although this disclosure has described and illustrated certain preferred embodiments of the invention, it is to be understood that the invention is not restricted to those particular embodiments. Rather, the invention includes all embodiments which are functional or physical equivalents of the specific embodiments and features that have been described and illustrated.
Claims (15)
PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS:
1. An electronic handheld device comprising:
a housing;
an activation on-off means;
a display face;
means for receiving and transmitting data;
a user controls and instructing means adapted to enable the device to perform tasks;
a device network identification data storage means adapted to store network identification data;
means for receiving the network identification data for storage in the device network identification data storage means;
means for operably using the network identification data to wirelessly transmit complete network data to connect to a network; and a wireless modem adapted to transmit the complete network data to at least one other device.
a housing;
an activation on-off means;
a display face;
means for receiving and transmitting data;
a user controls and instructing means adapted to enable the device to perform tasks;
a device network identification data storage means adapted to store network identification data;
means for receiving the network identification data for storage in the device network identification data storage means;
means for operably using the network identification data to wirelessly transmit complete network data to connect to a network; and a wireless modem adapted to transmit the complete network data to at least one other device.
2. The device of claim 1 further comprising stored network identification data.
3. The device of claim 2 further comprising means for combining the network identification data with network access data to generate the complete network data.
4. The device of claim 3, wherein the network access data is a password.
5. The device of claim 1, wherein the at least one other device is a receiving station comprising:
a receiving station wireless modem adapted to wirelessly receive the complete network data from the electronic handheld device; and means for using the complete network data to connect to a network.
a receiving station wireless modem adapted to wirelessly receive the complete network data from the electronic handheld device; and means for using the complete network data to connect to a network.
6. The device of claim 5, wherein the receiving station further comprises a network identification and complete network data storage means.
7. A system for connecting to a network comprising:
an electronic handheld device comprising:
a housing;
an activation on-off means;
a display face;
means for receiving and transmitting data;
a user controls and instructing means adapted to enable the device to perform tasks;
a device network identification data storage means adapted to store network identification data;
means for receiving the network identification data for storage in the device network identification data storage means;
means for operably using the network identification data to wirelessly transmit complete network data to connect to a network;
a wireless modem adapted to transmit the complete network data to at least one other device; and a receiving station comprising a receiving station wireless modem adapted to discover the network identification data, wirelessly transmit the network identification data to the electronic handheld device, and wirelessly receive the complete network data from the electronic handheld device; and means for using the complete network data to connect to a network.
an electronic handheld device comprising:
a housing;
an activation on-off means;
a display face;
means for receiving and transmitting data;
a user controls and instructing means adapted to enable the device to perform tasks;
a device network identification data storage means adapted to store network identification data;
means for receiving the network identification data for storage in the device network identification data storage means;
means for operably using the network identification data to wirelessly transmit complete network data to connect to a network;
a wireless modem adapted to transmit the complete network data to at least one other device; and a receiving station comprising a receiving station wireless modem adapted to discover the network identification data, wirelessly transmit the network identification data to the electronic handheld device, and wirelessly receive the complete network data from the electronic handheld device; and means for using the complete network data to connect to a network.
8. A method of connecting to a network comprising:
transmitting wirelessly instructions to a receiving station to discover network identification data;
receiving wirelessly the network identification data from the receiving station;
receiving input of network access data corresponding to at least one network in the network identification data; and combining the network access data with the network identification data to produce complete network data for the at least one network.
transmitting wirelessly instructions to a receiving station to discover network identification data;
receiving wirelessly the network identification data from the receiving station;
receiving input of network access data corresponding to at least one network in the network identification data; and combining the network access data with the network identification data to produce complete network data for the at least one network.
9. The method of claim 8, further comprising:
connecting to the at least one network using the complete network data.
connecting to the at least one network using the complete network data.
10. The method of claim 8, further comprising:
transmitting wirelessly the complete network data to the receiving station;
and transmitting wirelessly instructions to the receiving station to connect to the at least one network using the complete network data.
transmitting wirelessly the complete network data to the receiving station;
and transmitting wirelessly instructions to the receiving station to connect to the at least one network using the complete network data.
11. The method of claim 8, wherein the network access data is a password.
12. The method of claim 8, further comprising storing the network identification data.
13. A method of connecting to a network comprising:
receiving wirelessly instructions from an electronic handheld device to discover network identification data;
scanning wirelessly at least one network to discover the network identification data, and transmitting wirelessly the network identification data to the electronic handheld device.
receiving wirelessly instructions from an electronic handheld device to discover network identification data;
scanning wirelessly at least one network to discover the network identification data, and transmitting wirelessly the network identification data to the electronic handheld device.
14. The method of claim 13, further comprising:
receiving wirelessly complete network data from the electronic handheld device;
receiving wirelessly instructions from the electronic handheld device to connect to at least one network using the complete network data;
connecting to the at least one network using the complete network data.
receiving wirelessly complete network data from the electronic handheld device;
receiving wirelessly instructions from the electronic handheld device to connect to at least one network using the complete network data;
connecting to the at least one network using the complete network data.
15. The method of claim 13, further comprising storing the network identification data.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2688181A CA2688181A1 (en) | 2009-12-11 | 2009-12-11 | Method and apparatus for remotely connecting an electronics device to a wireless network |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2688181A CA2688181A1 (en) | 2009-12-11 | 2009-12-11 | Method and apparatus for remotely connecting an electronics device to a wireless network |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2688181A1 true CA2688181A1 (en) | 2011-06-11 |
Family
ID=44144930
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2688181A Abandoned CA2688181A1 (en) | 2009-12-11 | 2009-12-11 | Method and apparatus for remotely connecting an electronics device to a wireless network |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2688181A1 (en) |
-
2009
- 2009-12-11 CA CA2688181A patent/CA2688181A1/en not_active Abandoned
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