Geofence-Based Communication Mode Prioritization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mobile devices face challenges in smoothly switching between cellular and satellite communication modes, leading to potential connectivity interruptions, especially in areas with unreliable cellular coverage such as military zones or areas with bad weather, where the default configuration of cellular-first is not optimal.
Innovation Solution
A device equipped with a location-based component and multiple communication interfaces, including cellular, satellite, and Wi-Fi, that receives configuration information about geofences and prioritization settings, allowing it to dynamically switch between communication modes based on location to ensure continuous connectivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the device uses cellular connectivity as the default communication mode, then the device can maintain economical operation and simple configuration, but the device experiences connectivity interruptions and service delays in areas with unreliable cellular coverage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic communication mode selection by allowing the device to switch between cellular and satellite modes based on real-time location and configured geofences. The system transitions from a static default configuration to a dynamic decision-making process that monitors location changes and automatically selects the most reliable communication interface available at each moment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different communication priorities to different geographic locations through geofence-based configuration. Each geofence region can have customized communication mode preferences, allowing the device to use cellular in certain areas while prioritizing satellite in other areas, thereby optimizing reliability for each specific location rather than using a uniform default everywhere.
2Reliability
If the device switches between cellular and satellite modes manually or with simple defaults, then the configuration remains simple, but the handover process causes network section delays and service interruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring geofences with preferred communication modes before the device actually needs to switch. When the device enters a geofence region, the appropriate communication interface is already prepared and prioritized, enabling faster transition without manual intervention or delay.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the device continuously monitors its location and compares it against configured geofences. This real-time feedback triggers automatic communication mode adjustments, ensuring the device switches to the most reliable mode at the optimal moment rather than experiencing delays from manual switching or simple defaults.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the device uses manufacturer default cellular-first configuration, then the device operates simply and economically in most areas, but the configuration is unsuitable for high risk regions with unreliable cellular connectivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the device universal by enabling it to operate with multiple communication modes (cellular and satellite) simultaneously, each with configurable priorities. The device can adapt its behavior based on location while maintaining the ability to use any available communication interface, making it suitable for diverse environments from standard areas to high-risk regions with unreliable cellular service.
4Reliability
If the device implements configurable geofences and communication prioritization, then the device achieves reliable connectivity in diverse regions, but the system complexity and configuration requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication configuration into discrete geofence regions, each with its own prioritization settings. This segmentation allows complex communication strategies to be broken down into manageable geographic zones, making the overall system more configurable and easier to administer while maintaining high reliability through location-specific optimization.
Data Source
AI summary
Many machine-to-machine (M2M) devices and portable user devices have the ability to switch between cellular technology and satellite technology to ensure network connectivity. While the automatic handover is useful, there are situations where it is desirable to have greater control over the configuration of the communication modes of these devices. Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention describe the ability to designate a prioritized list of communication modes, the ability to manually configure communication modes directly on the device, the ability to configure communication modes remotely over the air, and the ability to configure communication modes according to a geofence.