Network Path Selection Using Continuous Quality Metrics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network path selection methods in environments like hospital networks rely on static prioritization, which fails to account for variable connection quality issues such as link failures, congestion, and disconnections, leading to intermittent quality problems.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system where devices continuously calculate connection quality indicators (CQIs) for available network paths, periodically polling the server to assess reliability and latency, and dynamically adjust network connections based on the highest CQI to ensure the most reliable and fastest path is used.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If static prioritization is used for path selection, then device complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to intermittent quality issues from link failures, congestion, and disconnections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic path selection by continuously monitoring connection quality metrics (latency, packet loss, throughput) and adapting the selected network path in real-time based on current conditions. Each device maintains a path order that is dynamically updated based on measured CQIs, allowing the system to respond to changing network conditions such as link failures, congestion, and disconnections, thereby resolving the contradiction between simplicity and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback mechanisms where connection quality indicators are continuously measured and used to adjust path selection decisions. The CQI measurements feed back into the path ordering logic, creating a closed-loop control system that automatically adapts to network conditions. This feedback-driven approach improves reliability without requiring complex manual configuration, as the system self-adjusts based on observed performance.
2Reliability
If continuous CQI measurement and dynamic path updating is implemented, then reliability and connection quality are improved, but use of energy increases due to continuous polling and monitoring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic CQI measurement and path evaluation instead of truly continuous monitoring. Devices poll connection quality at defined intervals and update path order based on accumulated measurements. This periodic approach maintains reliable connectivity by detecting changes in network conditions while reducing energy consumption compared to continuous real-time monitoring, as the system balances measurement frequency with power savings.
3Adaptability or versatility
If static prioritization is used for path selection, then ease of operation is improved, but adaptability deteriorates as the system cannot respond to changing network conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service path selection where each device autonomously measures its own connection quality metrics and determines the optimal path without requiring external control or manual configuration. Devices independently maintain path orders based on their own CQI measurements, allowing the network to adapt to changing conditions while keeping individual device operation simple. The complexity is distributed across devices rather than centralized, improving adaptability without sacrificing ease of operation at the device level.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for network path selection are herein provided. In one example, a method comprises determining, for each device of one or more devices, connection quality indicators (CQIs) for one or more available network connection paths; and connecting each device to a server via a respective network connection path with a highest CQI of the one or more available network connection paths.