GPS Device WLAN Connection Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current GPS devices rely on cellular or satellite networks for data transmission, leading to higher operational costs and inability to seamlessly connect to and utilize available wireless local area networks (WLANs) while moving, due to design limitations of Wi-Fi networks that are not optimized for roaming devices.
Innovation Solution
A method for a GPS-ready mobile device to search for and connect to 802.11 Wi-Fi networks, using a process that scans for available networks, prioritizes connections based on signal strength and security, and efficiently manages data transfer by storing GPS records in volatile memory during motion and transferring them to non-volatile memory when stationary, allowing for seamless data exchange with a master GPS server over the selected WLAN.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If GPS devices use cellular or satellite networks to send and receive data, then reliable data transmission is achieved, but operational cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The GPS device is designed to support multiple communication networks (cellular, satellite, and Wi-Fi), allowing it to universally transmit data across different network types. This multi-functionality enables the device to select cost-effective Wi-Fi networks when available while maintaining reliability through fallback to cellular or satellite networks.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the communication parameter (network type) based on availability and cost considerations. By switching from expensive cellular/satellite networks to lower-cost Wi-Fi networks when conditions permit, the system reduces operational costs while maintaining data transmission reliability.
2Reliability
If Wi-Fi networks are designed for stationary devices with authentication and negotiation processes, then network security is maintained, but connection speed deteriorates when devices are moving
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-scanning for available Wi-Fi networks and pre-establishing connection parameters before the device needs to transmit GPS data. This allows the device to quickly connect to suitable networks without undergoing lengthy authentication processes during active movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is made dynamic by continuously monitoring device velocity and network availability, adapting connection strategies in real-time. When device velocity indicates movement, the system adjusts by selecting networks and connection methods optimized for mobile conditions, thereby maintaining both security and connection speed.
3Reliability
If GPS devices are designed specifically for manufacturer's cellular or satellite networks, then network compatibility is ensured, but adaptability to other networks is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The GPS device incorporates universal communication capabilities that support multiple network types (cellular, satellite, and Wi-Fi). This design ensures compatibility with traditional networks while simultaneously enabling adaptability to Wi-Fi networks, resolving the contradiction between reliability and versatility.
4Reliability
If Wi-Fi access points require authentication and negotiation taking up to 45 seconds or 1 minute, then secure connection is established, but device may move out of range before connection
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary network scanning and selection before authentication is required. By identifying suitable networks in advance and preparing connection parameters, the device minimizes the time spent on authentication and negotiation, reducing the likelihood of moving out of range during the connection process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system accelerates the connection process by skipping unnecessary delays and optimizing the authentication sequence. When device velocity indicates movement, the system rushes through the authentication and negotiation process as quickly as possible, maintaining security while minimizing connection time to prevent the device from moving out of range.
Data Source
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AI summary
A process for detecting and connecting a GPS-enabled device to available inrange wireless local area networks (WLANs), particularly while the device is in motion. Once connected, the GPS enabled device sends and receives data and other information from a web service or software application. The process includes detecting relative movement speed of the GPS device and repeatedly attempts connections with new WLAN access points when in motion, particularly in excess of five miles per hour and/or twenty-five miles per hour.