Mobile Node Network Selection Across WLAN and Cellular Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing interworking arrangements for WLAN and cellular networks do not allow for seamless network selection across all operating modes and states of a mobile node, limiting the flexibility and efficiency of communication.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that enable a mobile node to dynamically select between WLAN and cellular networks based on operator preference criteria, using signaling layer parameter messages to buffer and update selection values, allowing selection in active, inactive, traffic, or idle modes, and during hand-offs, ensuring flexible and adaptive network communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing interworking arrangements are used for WLAN and cellular networks, then network selection is limited to specific operating modes, but flexibility and efficiency of communication are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal network selection mechanism that operates across all mobile node operating modes (active, inactive, traffic, and idle modes). The selection apparatus is designed to function independently of the specific operational state, enabling consistent network selection capabilities whether the mobile node is in WLAN or cellular network, and regardless of its current mode. This multi-functional approach resolves the contradiction by making the system adaptable to all scenarios while maintaining communication efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic network selection that can be performed at any stage of operation with dynamically adjustable selection criteria. The mobile node can update its network selection preferences and criteria in real-time based on current conditions, operator preferences, and network status. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt flexibly to changing conditions while maintaining efficient communication, resolving the contradiction between versatility and productivity.
2Ease of operation
If network selection is restricted to specific modes, then system complexity is reduced, but ease of operation is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service network selection mechanism where the mobile node autonomously performs network selection based on its own stored criteria and current operational state. The mobile node maintains its own selection criteria and can independently determine the optimal network without requiring complex external control mechanisms. This self-service approach enhances ease of operation while avoiding the need for complex centralized selection systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs preliminary action by having the mobile node pre-configure network selection criteria and preferences before actual network selection is needed. The mobile node stores operator preferences and selection criteria in advance, allowing it to quickly and easily select networks when needed without complex real-time decision-making. This pre-prepared approach simplifies the selection process while maintaining operational flexibility across all modes.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus, and an associated method, by which to facilitate selection of with which network portion of a WLAN-cdma2000, or other multi-network radio communication system, that the mobile node should communicate. A parameter message is communicated to the mobile node. The parameter message includes indications, values of which are extracted from the message, buffered at a buffer, and subsequently accessed. A selector utilizes the accessed values to determine with which of the network portions that the mobile node shall communicate.