Common Network Address Assignment for Mobile Host Data Flow Mobility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current network domain standards, such as Proxy Mobile IPv6 (RFC 5213), do not allow mobile host devices to use multiple network interfaces simultaneously with a common network address, preventing the movement of data flows between network interfaces.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that enable assignment of a common network address to multiple network interfaces of a computing device attached to a network domain, allowing dynamic negotiation of which network interface to use for data flows, by sending a proxy binding update message to a local mobility anchor and receiving network address information from a mobility access gateway.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing network domain standards (RFC 5213) are followed, then each network interface is configured with a unique network address based on different home network prefixes, but data flow movement between network interfaces is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables a single network address to serve multiple network interfaces simultaneously, allowing the same IP address to be used across different interfaces (cellular, WiFi, etc.) for seamless data flow migration. This multi-functional address assignment resolves the contradiction by making the network address universal rather than interface-specific.
Solution Approach 2:
The Mobility Access Gateway (MAG) acts as an intermediary that manages the binding between network addresses and multiple interfaces. It receives proxy binding update messages, processes the multi-interface address assignment requests, and coordinates with the Local Mobility Anchor (LMA) to enable data flow movement while maintaining address uniqueness requirements.
2Ease of manufacture
If multiple network interfaces use different network addresses, then network address conflict is avoided, but flexibility in network resource utilization is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic network address assignment where a single network address can be dynamically bound to different network interfaces based on current network conditions and data flow requirements. The MAG processes dynamic binding updates that allow the same address to move between interfaces, providing flexibility while maintaining configuration simplicity through centralized management.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a common network address is assigned to multiple network interfaces, then data flow movement between interfaces is enabled, but network address management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The Mobility Access Gateway serves as a mediator that handles the complexity of managing common network addresses across multiple interfaces. It processes proxy binding update messages, validates address assignments, and coordinates with the LMA to maintain network integrity. This intermediary approach enables data flow mobility while shielding end devices from management complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the MAG receives and processes binding update messages from mobile hosts, validates the requests against current network state, and provides appropriate responses. This feedback loop ensures proper address management while enabling flexible data flow movement between interfaces.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method, apparatus, and computer program product are provided for enabling assignment of a common network address to multiple network interfaces of a computing device attached to a network domain. An apparatus (302) may include a processor (310) configured to send a message to a mobility access gateway (306) comprising a request that a mobile host device (302) be assigned a common network address for simultaneous use on multiple network interfaces of the mobile host device through which the mobile host device is attached to the network domain. The processor may be further configured to receive a message comprising network address information from the mobility access gateway indicating that the mobile host device has been assigned a common network address for simultaneous use on multiple network interfaces of the mobile host device through which the mobile host device is attached to the network domain. Corresponding methods and computer program products are also provided.