Cellular Modem Auto-Switching via GPS Geo-Fencing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current dual mode 3G/4G cellular modems in vehicles cannot automatically detect and switch to 4G coverage when the vehicle re-enters a 4G area while still connected to a 3G network, leading to suboptimal data connection speeds due to their inability to monitor both 3G and 4G frequencies simultaneously, especially in scenarios where vehicles are constantly transmitting data.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that utilizes GPS and a central database to monitor the vehicle's location and network connections, switching from 3G to 4G automatically by comparing the current GPS location to geo-fence polygon data and updating records of coverage areas, allowing the vehicle to disconnect from 3G and connect to 4G when reliable 4G coverage is detected.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the cellular modem monitors only one frequency at a time, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to detect and switch to 4G coverage is impaired
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by using GPS to predict the vehicle's future location and proactively checking whether 4G coverage exists in that area before the vehicle actually arrives. This allows the modem to prepare for network switching in advance, ensuring reliable connection when entering 4G coverage without requiring continuous monitoring of both 3G and 4G frequencies simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces GPS location information and a database of coverage areas as intermediary elements between the modem and the cellular networks. Instead of directly monitoring both 3G and 4G frequencies, the system uses GPS coordinates to query pre-stored coverage area data, which indirectly determines the optimal network to connect to, simplifying the modem's monitoring requirements.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If the vehicle continuously transmits data on 3G network, then data transmission continuity is maintained, but the ability to detect 4G coverage is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary checks using GPS location data to determine if the vehicle is approaching or has entered a 4G coverage area before actually switching networks. This allows the system to maintain continuous 3G transmission until the appropriate moment, then proactively switch to 4G for optimized speed, resolving the conflict between continuity and optimization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring GPS location and comparing it against stored coverage area data. When the vehicle's position indicates entry into a 4G coverage zone, the system receives feedback and automatically initiates network switching, ensuring both transmission continuity and speed optimization without manual intervention.
3Reliability
If manual network switching is required, then network connection control is precise, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically monitoring GPS location, querying coverage area data, and executing network switching without driver intervention. The driver simply operates the vehicle while the system autonomously manages network connectivity, maintaining precise control through automated decision-making based on real-time location and pre-stored coverage information.
Data Source
AI summary
This invention provides a system and a method to automatically switch cellular data communications from 3G to 4G mode wherever reliable 4G cellular connectivity is available, and to collect and report reliable 4G cellular coverage geo-fence polygon information. The invention also provides a system and method to automatically switch cellular data communications between 4G cellular networks provided by different carriers, and 3G cellular networks provided by different carriers.