Mesh Network Roaming via Brokering Service
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cellular network roaming methods are inadequate for handling roaming in multiple mesh networks, which often operate with different Radio Access Technologies (RATs) and frequency bands, leading to unreliable connections and high costs due to varying relay node dependencies and network loads.
Innovation Solution
A brokering service that assists nodes in roaming between multiple mesh networks by negotiating roaming contracts between Network Management Services (NMS) of different networks, evaluating and comparing costs, RATs, and metrics to determine the most efficient and cost-effective roaming option, thereby enabling seamless connectivity and reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a node connects to its gateway node through a single relay node in a mesh network, then the connection structure is simplified, but the reliability deteriorates because the node becomes entirely dependent on that relay node and becomes detached when the relay node drops out
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic path selection and roaming capabilities that allow nodes to switch between different relay nodes and networks based on current conditions. When the primary relay node fails or the node moves outside coverage, the system dynamically establishes alternative communication paths through other relay nodes or roaming networks, transforming the static single-path connection into a dynamic multi-path system that maintains reliability while managing complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple mesh networks operate with different Radio Access Technologies and frequency bands, then the versatility and coverage are improved, but the complexity of roaming management deteriorates due to varying relay node dependencies and network loads
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a roaming management system that acts as an intermediary between different mesh networks with varying RATs and frequency bands. This intermediary handles the complexity of interoperability, authentication, and path selection across heterogeneous networks, allowing nodes to roam seamlessly between networks with different technologies without each node needing to manage the complexity of multiple RATs and frequency bands independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The roaming management system implements universal protocols and interfaces that work across different Radio Access Technologies and frequency bands. By creating a multi-functional roaming framework that can handle various network types (mesh, cellular, Wi-Fi) through common procedures, the system enables versatile coverage while keeping roaming management complexity centralized and standardized rather than distributed and technology-specific.
3Adaptability or versatility
If roaming costs are decided on an individual basis for each network, then the adaptability to different network conditions is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to the need for individual agreements between operators
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary roaming agreements and pre-configured roaming profiles that establish cost frameworks and authentication mechanisms in advance. Instead of negotiating individual arrangements for each roaming event, operators pre-establish roaming partnerships with defined cost structures, allowing nodes to seamlessly roam between partnered networks without real-time negotiation, thus maintaining cost flexibility while dramatically simplifying operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A brokering service apparatus (400) and method therein (150) for assisting a first node (111) to roam in multiple mesh networks (100) are disclosed. The multiple mesh networks (100) comprises a first network (110) comprising a first node (111) and a gateway node (113) and a second network (120) comprising a gateway node (123). The multiple mesh networks (100) further comprises a mesh node (140, 141) which may belong to either the first network (110), the second network (120) or a third network (130). The brokering service apparatus receives a connection request associated with the first node 111 and the first network (110), the connection request is sent by the first node (111) via the mesh node (140). The brokering service identifies the first network (110) and data requirements for the first node (111) and negotiates a roaming contract between a first NMS (160) associated with the first network (110) and at least a second NMS (170) associated with the second network (120). When the roaming contract is established, the brokering service transmits a roaming accept message to at least the second NMS (170) of the second network (120).