Network Access Point Selection Using Attribute Comparison
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of mobile devices face difficulties in selecting reliable Wi-Fi hotspots due to poorly configured, malfunctioning, or malicious connections, and existing systems consume significant battery power scanning for available hotspots with little benefit, especially in densely populated areas.
Innovation Solution
A computing device determines its location and detects nearby network access points (NAPs), obtains attribute values, and compares them with sensor values to prioritize and automatically connect to the highest-rated NAP, while adjusting scan patterns to conserve battery life.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If mobile devices continuously scan for available hotspots, then users can discover more network access points, but battery power is substantially consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by obtaining attribute values about hotspots before the device actually scans for them. A computing device collects hotspot attributes (location, capacity, authentication requirements) in advance, so when scanning is needed, the device can quickly match available hotspots without extensive scanning, thus reducing battery consumption while maintaining discovery capability
Solution Approach 2:
A computing device acts as an intermediary between mobile devices and hotspots. The computing device maintains a database of hotspot attribute values and provides this information to mobile devices, eliminating the need for devices to continuously scan and evaluate all potential hotspots themselves, thereby reducing their energy consumption
2Adaptability or versatility
If mobile devices scan for hotspots in densely populated areas, then more connection options are available, but the selection process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where attribute values of hotspots are obtained and compared against device sensor values. This feedback loop allows the system to automatically evaluate compatibility between device capabilities and hotspot requirements, simplifying the selection process by presenting only suitable options rather than requiring users to manually evaluate all available hotspots
Solution Approach 2:
The selection process is segmented into distinct steps: obtaining hotspot attribute values, comparing with device sensor values, prioritizing compatible hotspots, and automatically selecting the best match. This segmentation transforms the complex selection task into manageable automated steps, reducing user burden even in densely populated areas with many hotspot options
3Reliability
If mobile devices scan for hotspots even when none are within range, then the device remains ready to connect, but battery life is reduced with little benefit
Solution Approach 1:
The scanning behavior is made dynamic rather than static. The system adjusts scanning activity based on actual conditions - obtaining attribute values and scanning only when hotspots are likely to be available or when the device is in locations where hotspots exist. This dynamic approach maintains connection readiness when beneficial while conserving battery life when scanning would be futile
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments enable prioritization and selection of network access points (NAP) by a computing device using NAP attribute values. The computing device obtains the attribute values based on a location of the computing device and/or proximate NAPs detected by the computing device. The obtained attribute values are compared to a state of the computing device (e.g., sensor values), user preferences, or other criteria to select at least one of the NAPs for connection with the computing device. In some embodiments, a user of the computing device is presented with a list of Wi-Fi access points ranked according to relevance to the computing device and/or user.