Multi-Network Cellular Modem for Simultaneous Emergency Calls
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle systems that make emergency calls lack the ability to simultaneously connect to multiple networks, which can lead to unreliable data transfer and voice communication during critical situations, such as accidents, where timely and efficient communication with emergency services is essential.
Innovation Solution
A multi-connectivity cellular modem system that detects available networks and places simultaneous emergency calls on each, allowing for the selection of one call as a voice call and the other as a data transfer call based on network characteristics, ensuring continued connectivity and data transfer even if one network becomes unreliable.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single network is used for emergency calling, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability of communication is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the emergency communication function into multiple independent network connections. Instead of relying on a single network, the vehicle places simultaneous emergency calls on multiple available cellular networks, dividing the communication task across separate channels to improve overall reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of network diversity by utilizing multiple different cellular networks simultaneously. By varying the network parameter from a single network to multiple networks, the system improves communication reliability while the modem handles the complexity of managing these multiple connections.
2Reliability
If simultaneous calls on multiple networks are placed, then communication reliability is improved, but device complexity is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The cellular modem is designed with multi-functionality to handle multiple simultaneous calls across different networks. This universal capability allows the single modem to perform what would traditionally require multiple separate devices, managing voice and data calls concurrently on multiple networks without increasing physical device count.
3Productivity
If one call is designated for voice and another for data, then communication efficiency is improved, but call management complexity is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies local quality by assigning different functions to different calls based on network characteristics. One call is optimized for voice communication while another is optimized for data transfer, with each call tailored to the specific strengths of its assigned network rather than using all networks for all purposes.
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a processor configured to determine availability of multiple cellular network connectivity via a multi-network cellular modem, responsive to detecting a reportable incident. The processor is also configured to place a plurality of simultaneous emergency calls, one on each available connectivity option, via the modem, responsive to the determination of multiple option availability.