Mobile Device Peer-to-Peer Network Access via Blockchain Smart Contracts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users often face limited or non-existent access to telecommunications networks due to geographical or infrastructure-related issues, and existing subscription models, such as post-paid and pre-paid plans, can lead to high costs or service restrictions.
Innovation Solution
The system enables peer-to-peer (P2P) network access between mobile devices using blockchain-based smart contracts, allowing devices to share telecommunications network access and manage terms like rates and payment methods, thereby facilitating access in restricted areas without relying on traditional roaming or subscription limitations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional network subscription models (post-paid or pre-paid) are used, then network access is provided, but users face high costs, data caps, or service restrictions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the traditional monolithic network access model into distributed peer-to-peer connections. Instead of relying on a single network provider, users can connect through multiple peer devices, each providing partial network access. This segmentation enables flexible, customizable access arrangements that avoid traditional data caps and high roaming charges.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables users to independently negotiate and establish network access terms with peer devices through smart contracts. Users can set their own rates, data limits, and service conditions without relying on traditional network carrier policies. This self-service approach provides greater adaptability and customization of network access terms.
2Duration of action of moving object
If post-paid subscription is used, then continuous network access is provided, but users may reach data caps and face high additional charges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic network access terms through smart contracts that can be adjusted in real-time. Users can set flexible data limits, time-based restrictions, and variable pricing that adapt to their needs. This dynamic approach replaces static data caps with customizable, adjustable parameters that prevent unexpected charges while maintaining continuous access.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows users to change access parameters (data limits, rates, time periods) on-demand through programmable smart contracts. Instead of being locked into fixed data buckets, users can dynamically adjust their consumption parameters, switch between different peer providers, and modify terms without changing their fundamental network access arrangement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If pre-paid subscription is used, then users have control over data consumption, but users may run out of data and cannot easily renew before needing service
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal peer-to-peer network access system that works across multiple devices and network providers. Users can access network services through any available peer device, not just their primary network provider. This multi-functionality allows seamless switching between different data sources, eliminating service interruptions when one data bucket is depleted.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses smart contracts to establish preliminary agreements with multiple peer providers in advance. Users can pre-configure access terms, rates, and data limits with multiple potential providers before needing service. When one data source is depleted, users can automatically or manually switch to another pre-arranged peer provider without service interruption.
4Ease of operation
If peer-to-peer network sharing is implemented, then network access availability improves in restricted areas, but system complexity increases due to blockchain and smart contracts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces smart contracts as intermediary layers that automatically manage the complex peer-to-peer negotiations and transactions. These self-executing contracts handle rate agreements, data tracking, and payment settlements without requiring direct complex interactions between users. The blockchain serves as a decentralized intermediary that provides trust and verification while maintaining relative simplicity for end users.
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems and methods are described herein for providing mobile devices with peer to peer access to telecommunications networks. The network-based systems enable mobile devices associated with subscribers of the telecommunications networks to establish direct connections with other mobile devices (e.g., third party mobile devices of users that are not subscribers) over peer to peer (P2P) communication protocols. For example, a mobile device can, over a P2P connection, act as a Hotspot, Wi-Fi tether, or bridge for a third party or other mobile device requesting access to the networks.