Multi-WAN Edge Routing for Seamless Satellite-Cellular Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication networks lack the capability for seamless switching between untrusted networks, leading to inefficiencies and call drops during transitions, especially in disaster scenarios and satellite-based networks, and fail to provide resilient connectivity.
Innovation Solution
A multi-WAN network framework incorporating satellite-based and cellular networks with an edge appliance that includes a satellite modem, cellular modem, switch, and processing node for dynamic traffic routing, utilizing a connectivity platform with microservices and software-defined wide area networks to manage and optimize traffic across both networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a secure tunnel is established over Wi-Fi network to maintain trusted connection, then security is improved, but network complexity and switching capability between untrusted networks deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (session management function) that enables switching between untrusted networks without requiring full trust. The intermediary maintains session state and coordinates handovers between different network types (cellular, Wi-Fi, satellite), allowing the system to operate securely across untrusted networks while managing complexity through centralized coordination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic network selection and switching capabilities that allow the communication system to adapt between different network types in real-time. The system can dynamically transition between trusted and untrusted networks based on availability and conditions, rather than being locked into a single network type, thereby improving flexibility without compromising security.
2Adaptability or versatility
If switching capability between untrusted networks is added, then adaptability is improved, but reliability of connection during transition deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary actions by establishing session state and switching parameters in advance before actual network transitions occur. The session management function pre-configures routing parameters, QoS settings, and security contexts, so that when switching is needed, the connection can be maintained smoothly without disruption. This proactive preparation ensures reliability during transitions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms that continuously monitor network conditions, connection quality, and available resources. Based on this feedback, the system can adjust switching decisions in real-time, selecting optimal networks and timing transitions to minimize disruption. The feedback loop ensures that switching actions maintain connection reliability by adapting to actual network performance.
3Productivity
If multiple wireless networks are integrated for resilient connectivity, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal session management function that handles multiple network types (cellular, Wi-Fi, satellite) through a single integrated framework. Rather than requiring separate management systems for each network, the universal function provides unified session state management, QoS control, and switching capabilities across all network types, thereby improving productivity while controlling complexity through consolidation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the complex multi-network management into distinct functional components: session management function, mobility management, QoS control, and network selection. This segmentation allows each function to be optimized independently and simplifies the overall system architecture. By dividing the complex task into manageable segments, the system achieves high productivity without overwhelming complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-wide area network (WAN) incorporating both satellite-based communication networks and cellular networks (e.g., an LTE network) is disclosed. In one embodiment, the WAN is implemented with a communications framework comprising: an edge appliance comprising a satellite modem interconnect for coupling to a satellite modem external to the edge appliance, a cellular modem interconnect for coupling to a cellular modem external to the edge appliance, a switch coupled to the satellite and cellular modem interconnects, and a processing node coupled to the switch and comprising a router to switch traffic between the satellite modem interconnect and the cellular modem interconnect when the edge appliance communicates with a public data network using a satellite link or a terrestrial cellular link, respectively; and a connectivity platform configured for connection to the edge appliance, the connectivity platform comprising a broker/integrator component configured to operate as a broker and an integrator between the edge appliance and both connectivity service providers and business support systems that perform subscription management to enable the edge appliance access to the satellite and terrestrial cellular links.