Dynamic Network Interconnections for Multifamily Housing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The current process of establishing internet services in multifamily and multi-tenant housing is time-consuming and error-prone, involving physical connections and technician visits, which can disrupt other networks and take days or weeks to complete.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of dynamic networking systems that allow for the configuration of resident gateways and provider switching devices to establish connections between local area networks and Internet Service Providers, enabling seamless and automated connections without the need for physical technician visits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If physical connection establishment by technician is used, then reliable network connection is achieved, but time consumption increases and network disruptions occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical physical connection process with automated software-based virtual connections. The system uses virtual network interfaces and software-defined networking to establish connections between units and ISPs without requiring physical cable installation or technician presence, thereby eliminating time loss while maintaining connection reliability through automated configuration and provisioning
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service network connection establishment where units can automatically register and configure their own network connections. The gateway device automatically discovers available ISPs, negotiates connection parameters, and establishes virtual connections without requiring manual technician intervention, allowing tenants to independently activate services within minutes
2Reliability
If technician visits for physical connection are required, then proper physical connectivity is ensured, but operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex physical connectivity configuration with automated virtual connection management. The system uses virtual network interfaces, software-defined networking, and automated gateway configuration to manage connections, eliminating the need for technicians to physically wire connections while reducing operational complexity through centralized software control
Solution Approach 2:
The gateway device acts as an intermediary between units and ISPs, automatically handling connection establishment and management. The gateway receives registration requests from units, discovers available ISPs, configures virtual connections, and manages network parameters, thereby simplifying the overall system architecture by centralizing connection logic in a single device
3Adaptability or versatility
If physical connection changes are made, then network reconfiguration is achieved, but network disruptions to other units occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network into isolated virtual connection spaces for each unit. Each unit has its own virtual network interface and dedicated connection parameters, allowing reconfiguration of one unit's connection without affecting other units. The virtual network architecture creates logical isolation between units, enabling independent connection management while preventing disruptions to neighboring units
4Manufacturing precision
If manual ISP connection configuration is used, then precise connection control is achieved, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables tenants to independently select from multiple available ISPs and configure their own network connections through automated gateway processes. The gateway automatically discovers available ISPs, presents connection options to the tenant, handles authentication, and configures network parameters without requiring manual technical intervention, making the process as easy as selecting an ISP while maintaining precise connection control
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes connection parameters such as IP addresses, gateway addresses, and network masks automatically during the connection establishment process. The gateway modifies these parameters based on the selected ISP and available network resources, presenting a simplified user interface where tenants only need to select an ISP while the system handles all precise parameter configuration automatically
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems are provided for establishing dynamic connections between network devices and Internet Service Providers. A computing device may receive a registration request associated with a unit of a structure over a first communication channel. The computing device may configure a gateway and/or provider switching device of the structure to connect a service network to a local area network within the unit. The computing device may then receive a request to establish a network connection between the gateway and an Internet Service Provider over a second communication channel. The request may include an identification of a particular Internet Service Provider from a plurality of Internet Service Providers. The computing device may facilitate a network layer connection between the gateway and the particular Internet Service Provider.