Handover Service Function Entity for Seamless WiMAX to WiFi Transition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication systems face challenges in seamless handover between WiMAX and WiFi networks, particularly due to the lack of consideration for different WiFi network types, leading to complex network deployments and service disruptions.
Innovation Solution
A processing method and communication system that enables handover by discovering and authenticating access points in WiFi networks, using a handover service function entity to establish connections and manage probe requests, allowing devices to switch between WiMAX and WiFi networks without significant changes to the existing network infrastructure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the WiFi SFF only provides an AP simulation function without considering different WiFi network types, then the handover process can be simplified, but the network deployment becomes complex and requires great improvements on existing networks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the WiFi SFF by enabling it to identify and adapt to different WiFi network types (thin-AP-based and fat-AP-based networks). Instead of using a fixed simulation mode, the WiFi SFF dynamically adjusts its behavior based on the detected network type, allowing it to either simulate a thin-AP or forward messages directly to a fat-AP, thereby simplifying network deployment while maintaining ease of handover operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic adaptability into the WiFi SFF by making its operational mode flexible rather than static. The WiFi SFF can switch between different operational states (simulation mode vs. forwarding mode) depending on the target network type, enabling the system to adapt to various deployment scenarios without requiring complex pre-configurations or network modifications
2Adaptability or versatility
If the MS disables the WiMAX radio unit and then enables the WiFi radio unit to access the WiFi network, then handover from WiMAX to WiFi can be performed, but service continuity is disrupted and the handover process becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by establishing a tunnel connection between the MS and the target WiFi network (through the WiFi SFF and authenticator) before the actual handover occurs. The MS discovers the target AP, obtains its BSSID, and sets up the communication path in advance while still connected to the WiMAX network. This allows the MS to maintain service continuity through the tunnel during the radio unit switching process, avoiding service disruption
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the WiFi SFF as an intermediary entity that facilitates seamless handover between WiMAX and WiFi networks. The WiFi SFF acts as a mediator that receives messages from the MS, forwards them to the target WiFi network, and relays responses back to the MS. This intermediary mechanism enables the MS to maintain continuous service through the tunnel connection while switching radio units, thereby ensuring service continuity without direct MS intervention in the complex handover process
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses a processing method supporting handover, and communication apparatus, which can reduce an impact on an existing network. The method includes: A handover service function entity receives an identifier of a first AP from an MS, where the first AP is discovered in a WiFi network, and determines, according to the identifier of the first AP, an authenticator entity corresponding to the first AP corresponding to the identifier; establishes a connection with the MS; receives from the MS a probe request message for probing an AP to be associated; and returns to the MS a probe request response message that carries an identifier of an AP to be associated with the MS, so that the MS associates with the AP corresponding to the identifier of the AP to be associated, and accesses the WiFi network through the AP to be associated and the authenticator entity.