M2M Field Device Submissive Network Mode Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Machine-to-machine (M2M) devices in remote settings face connectivity issues due to geographical limitations and the need to maintain multiple cellular technology accounts, leading to high carrier fees and logistical challenges in switching between them.
Innovation Solution
A remotely deployed device automatically selects and switches between different mobile network modes based on availability and signal quality, using stored information about previous successful connections to establish data transfer connections without requiring external coordination or complex account management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a M2M node is designed with circuitry for multiple cellular technologies, then connectivity reliability is improved, but device complexity and carrier fees increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-establishes multiple carrier accounts and profiles before deployment. The M2M node is pre-configured with multiple carrier profiles including authentication credentials, allowing it to automatically select and switch between carriers without real-time coordination, thus improving reliability while managing complexity through advance preparation
Solution Approach 2:
The M2M node autonomously selects and switches between different cellular technologies and carriers based on local availability and signal quality without requiring external coordination. The device independently manages carrier profile selection and authentication, eliminating the need for centralized control and reducing operational complexity
2Reliability
If a M2M node is designed with circuitry for multiple cellular technologies, then connectivity reliability is improved, but carrier fees increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically changes operational parameters by selecting different carrier profiles based on signal quality metrics and availability. The M2M node monitors cellular signal conditions and automatically switches to the most cost-effective carrier that provides adequate connectivity, optimizing the balance between reliability and carrier fees through parameter-based selection
3Reliability
If selective switching between cellular technologies is implemented, then connectivity reliability is improved, but logistical complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The M2M node autonomously performs carrier selection and switching operations without requiring external coordination or manual intervention. The device independently evaluates available cellular technologies, selects the appropriate carrier profile, and executes the switch automatically, thereby improving reliability while eliminating logistical complexity associated with centralized management
4Reliability
If the M2M node attempts to connect to multiple mobile network modes simultaneously, then connectivity reliability is improved, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary scanning and evaluation of available mobile network modes before establishing full connections. The M2M node quickly assesses which carriers are available and selects the most suitable one in advance, avoiding the need to maintain simultaneous connections to multiple networks, thus improving reliability while conserving energy
Data Source
AI summary
A method is provided for a remotely-deployed field device to automatically select one of different mobile network modes to communicate with a server computing device. The field device is configured to maintain consistent and reliable connection with the server computing device by automatically switching between different mobile network modes that are selectively open and active based on various criteria, such as technical and/or business considerations. The automatic selection of mobile network modes is achieved in a submissive mobile network connection regime in which the remotely deployed field device autonomously operates to submit to whichever mobile network mode is open and active under preset criteria.