Handoff Switch for Heterogeneous Wireless Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems face challenges in implementing seamless handoff between heterogeneous networks, such as IEEE 802.11 and IEEE 802.16 networks, which are essential for providing high-quality services in 4G communication systems, especially in ensuring mobility and Quality of Service (QoS) across different network types.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method for vertical handoff between WLAN (IEEE 802.11) and broadband wireless communication networks (IEEE 802.16) are introduced, utilizing a switch to relay handoff messages and process handoffs between Base Stations (BS) and Access Points (APs), converting messages between the two networks to ensure seamless connectivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If handoff between heterogeneous networks (802.11 and 802.16) is implemented, then mobility and QoS are improved, but system complexity increases due to message format differences and protocol incompatibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a message conversion mechanism that acts as an intermediary between 802.11 and 802.16 networks. When a handoff request message is received from one network type, the system converts it to the corresponding message format of the target network type before processing. This intermediary conversion layer resolves the protocol incompatibility issue while enabling seamless handoff between heterogeneous networks, thus improving mobility and QoS without requiring complex direct integration between different network protocols.
2Productivity
If 802.11 network is integrated into 802.16 network, then network capacity and coverage are improved, but message compatibility issues arise due to different message formats
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transforming message format parameters between different network types. The message conversion mechanism modifies structural parameters (message fields, data organization) and semantic parameters (message meaning, protocol semantics) to adapt 802.11 messages to 802.16 format and vice versa. This allows the 802.11 network to be integrated into the 802.16 network while preserving message integrity and meaning, thus improving network capacity and coverage without losing information during message transmission.
3Ease of operation
If seamless handoff is achieved between networks, then user experience is improved, but handoff processing time increases due to message conversion requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-establishing message conversion rules and formats between 802.11 and 802.16 networks. The system prepares conversion templates and protocol mappings in advance, so that when a handoff request occurs, the message format transformation can be performed quickly using pre-defined structures. This preliminary preparation reduces the actual conversion time during handoff events, maintaining seamless connectivity while minimizing processing time delays.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method for implementing a vertical handoff between a WLAN and a broadband wireless communication network are provided. The vertical handoff apparatus includes a base station (BS) of the broadband wireless network and at least one access point (AP) of the WLAN within the cell coverage area of the BS, and a switch for forwarding packets between the BS and the at least one AP and processing a handoff between the BS and the at least one AP.