Mid-Session Mode Switching in Multimode Communication Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Contemporary communication systems require multiple devices for different services, leading to complexity and the need for multiple service agreements and unique identifiers, with mid-session mode changes in communication systems often occurring without user control, resulting in undesirable interruptions.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method where a communication terminal device can initiate and control mid-session changes in access modes, taking into account user preferences, by sending indications to the network to switch between available modes of access, such as SIP INVITE messages, allowing seamless transitions between different communication protocols and networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specialized devices are used for different communication services, then communication functionality is improved, but device complexity and user management complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal communication device capable of supporting multiple communication modes (wireless, wireline, voice, data, messaging) within a single device. The system allows one device to perform functions previously requiring multiple specialized devices, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining comprehensive communication functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple communication services and access modes into a single integrated device. By combining wireless and wireline capabilities, voice and data services, and multiple protocol support (SIP, H.323) into one device, the system eliminates the need for separate specialized devices for each communication function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple service agreements and unique identifiers are required for each device, then service coverage is improved, but service management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables a single device to access multiple communication networks (cellular, WiFi, landline) and services (voice, data, messaging) through unified service agreements. One device can maintain service contracts with multiple carriers and networks simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate service agreements for each specialized device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple service access points into a single service management framework. The device can handle multiple unique identifiers (phone numbers, email addresses, Ethernet addresses) and service agreements through one unified interface, simplifying service management while maintaining broad service coverage.
3Productivity
If mid-session mode switching is controlled by the network, then network optimization is improved, but user control and communication quality deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional network-controlled mode switching approach by enabling user-initiated or device-autonomous mode switching. Instead of the network forcing mode changes, the user or device determines when and how to switch between communication modes (e.g., from cellular to WiFi), giving users control while maintaining network connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements dynamic mode switching where the communication mode can change during an active session based on user preferences, available networks, and communication quality requirements. The device can seamlessly transition between different access modes (wireless, wireline, 2G, 3G, WiFi) while maintaining the communication session, providing both user control and network optimization.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for performing mode-agile communications during a communications session is disclosed. A communications terminal device supporting multiple modes of access is configured to determine when, during a session involving a first mode of access communications, a second mode of access is available and is to be used for subsequent communications for the session. The communications terminal device initiates or controls switchover from one mode of access to another.