M2M Device Network Selection via Signal Quality
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Solution Overview
Problem
Machine-to-Machine (M2M) devices face challenges in maintaining reliable cellular network connectivity due to limited coverage and varying signal quality, which can lead to inadequate quality of service and device malfunction when operating across multiple cellular networks.
Innovation Solution
A controller for M2M devices that selects and registers with a cellular network based on a predetermined signal quality measurement aligned with the application's quality of service level, allowing for autonomous operation and switching between networks if the initial connection fails to meet the required standards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If M2M devices operate autonomously without human interaction, then device independence and automation are improved, but the ability to diagnose and solve communication problems deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The M2M device performs self-diagnosis and self-selection of cellular networks by autonomously evaluating signal quality measurements against predetermined thresholds and automatically registering with suitable networks without human intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The device continuously monitors received signal quality measurements from cellular networks and uses this feedback to dynamically select and switch between networks based on whether the signal quality meets predetermined thresholds required for the application
2Adaptability or versatility
If M2M devices use packet-switched communication for flexibility, then communication versatility is improved, but system complexity increases especially with circuit-switched architecture overlay
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and focuses on the essential function of signal quality evaluation and network selection, separating this core functionality from the complex packet-switched communication protocols to simplify the overall system approach
3Adaptability or versatility
If M2M devices register with multiple cellular networks for coverage, then network availability is improved, but the difficulty of ensuring proper operation and avoiding network damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses parameter changes by evaluating signal quality measurements against predetermined thresholds to dynamically determine which network to register with, simplifying the configuration process while maintaining multi-network capability
4Adaptability or versatility
If M2M devices register with cellular networks having low signal quality to maintain connectivity, then network availability is improved, but the quality of service deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device dynamically adjusts its network selection by continuously monitoring signal quality measurements and automatically switching between cellular networks based on whether the measured signal quality meets predetermined thresholds, ensuring both availability and service quality
Data Source
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AI summary
A machine-to-machine device is configured to execute an application and comprises a cellular network interface for wireless communication of data for the application with a cellular network. It has subscription information allowing it to register with more than one cellular network. The device may be registered with one cellular network, selected as having a received signal quality measurement of at least a predetermined level that is based upon a quality of service level defined by the application. It is also provided that the device may identify that a quality measurement for a packet-switched communication link fails to meet a predetermined level. In response, the machine-to-machine device may be deregistered from one cellular network and registered with another cellular network.