Dual Mode Wireless Client Provisioning via Network Environment Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing VoIP-capable dual mode telephones face challenges in provisioning, as they require costly and inefficient methods to update configuration files, especially when transitioning between GSM and WiFi networks, leading to increased operational costs and suboptimal user experience.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for provisioning wireless client devices that determine the current network environment and timing intervals for configuration file updates, using SIP-based messages over IP networks and SMS over PSTN networks, allowing for incremental timer management and cost-effective updates by prioritizing IP-based network access for configuration file retrieval.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If configuration file updates are performed using GSM network, then the telephone can receive updates while mobile, but the operational cost increases due to charging for GSM network access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a WiFi network as an intermediary medium for configuration file updates. When the telephone is connected to a WiFi network, it uses this intermediary connection to retrieve updates, thereby avoiding direct use of the GSM network for updates and reducing operational costs while maintaining update capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the network parameter (from GSM to WiFi) for configuration file retrieval based on availability. By detecting WiFi connectivity and switching to this alternative network for updates, the system optimizes operational costs while preserving the ease of receiving configuration updates.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the telephone uses dual mode operation (GSM and WiFi), then it can access both networks, but the provisioning complexity increases due to needing to manage multiple network types
Solution Approach 1:
The telephone performs self-service by automatically detecting its current network environment (GSM or WiFi) and autonomously selecting the appropriate method for retrieving configuration files. This self-service mechanism simplifies provisioning complexity by eliminating the need for manual configuration or complex network management protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts its provisioning method based on the current network environment. The telephone monitors its connectivity status and switches between GSM and WiFi-based update methods as needed, creating a dynamic provisioning system that manages complexity through automated adaptation rather than static configuration.
3Reliability
If configuration file updates are performed frequently, then the telephone has current settings, but the time and resources required for updates increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic action by using timers to schedule configuration file updates at appropriate intervals rather than continuously. The telephone checks for updates periodically based on its network connection status, ensuring configuration freshness while avoiding excessive update frequency that would waste time and resources.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback mechanisms where the telephone reports its network status and update requirements to the provisioning server. This feedback loop allows the system to optimize update timing and frequency based on actual conditions, ensuring reliable configuration updates without unnecessary time consumption.
Data Source
AI summary
Method and apparatus for provisioning a wireless multi-modal client device in a telecommunications system includes determining a provisioning environment within and a provisioning condition under which the client device is operating, determining a state of a configuration file of the client device and obtaining an updated configuration file based on the provisioning environment and provisioning conditions. The provisioning environment is determined by detecting one or more wireless networks accessible by the client device such as an IP-based network and a PSTN-based network. Connection to the IP-based network is made via WiFi and to the PSTN-based network via GSM/GPRS. The wireless networks defining the provisioning environment have characteristic timing intervals for configuration file updating. There is also an incremental timer that determines the elapsed time for each characteristic timing interval and switches between characteristic timing intervals depending upon the provisioning environment that the client device is operating within.