Mobile Device Network Switching Using Satellite Forecasts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mobile devices face inefficiencies when switching between cellular and satellite networks, particularly due to unnecessary power consumption and user experience impacts from attempting to switch to satellite modes without ensuring satellite signal availability, especially in indoor or obstructed areas.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method that determines the availability of satellite networks by utilizing satellite observation forecasts and signal strength from Global Navigation Satellite Systems, allowing devices to remain in cellular mode if satellite signals are not available, and prioritizing network selection based on context and application requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the mobile device attempts to switch to satellite network mode, then network coverage is improved, but power consumption increases unnecessarily when satellite signals are not available
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of satellite signal availability before initiating a network switch to satellite mode. The processor checks whether satellite signals are detectable at the current location and time using satellite observation forecasts, and only proceeds with the network switch if signals are confirmed available, thereby avoiding unnecessary power consumption from failed switch attempts
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses satellite observation forecasts that provide feedback about future satellite visibility based on location and time. This feedback mechanism allows the device to predict whether satellite signals will be available before attempting to switch networks, enabling informed decision-making that balances coverage needs with power consumption
2Productivity
If the mobile device switches between networks frequently, then network optimization is improved, but user experience deteriorates due to call drops and connection interruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The system detects satellite signal availability in advance using observation forecasts before initiating network switches. By predicting future satellite visibility based on current location and time, the system ensures that switches are only performed when signals will be available, preventing call drops and connection interruptions that would degrade user experience
Solution Approach 2:
The satellite observation forecast provides feedback about upcoming satellite visibility, allowing the system to time network switches optimally. This feedback ensures that switches occur only when satellite signals are expected to be available, maintaining continuous connectivity and preventing user-facing disruptions
3Area of stationary object
If the mobile device uses satellite network mode, then coverage area is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts network mode selection based on real-time detection of satellite signal availability and satellite observation forecasts. Instead of statically remaining in satellite mode for extended coverage, the processor continuously evaluates whether satellite signals are detectable and switches networks dynamically, using cellular mode when satellite signals are unavailable to conserve power while maintaining coverage capability when signals are present
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques are provided for selecting cellular and satellite networks. An example method for switching between communication networks includes receiving one or more signals via a first wireless communication network with a mobile device, determining a second wireless communication network is available based at least in part on a location of the mobile device and a time, detaching the mobile device from the first wireless communication network at the time if the second wireless communication network is available, and receiving one or more signals from the second wireless communication network with the mobile device after the time.