Network Selection Using Historical Data Mining
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile devices face challenges in connecting to networked printers and other devices due to differing network environments, with existing solutions failing to automatically identify the correct network and establish connections, especially in complex local area networks with multiple subnets and wireless networks, leading to administrative overhead and connectivity issues.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that uses historical data mining to automatically identify the appropriate network for a mobile device to connect to a target network device, by retrieving and prioritizing previously established connection information, accessing a connection server for records, and iteratively attempting connections using a prioritized list of networks based on signal strength, security, and user feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing pairing solutions (NFC hotspots, BLE tags) are used to identify network addresses, then device identification is improved, but network connectivity is not achieved because they do not provide network topology information
Solution Approach 1:
The solution segments the connection establishment process into two distinct phases: first using NFC/BLE for precise device identification and address discovery, then separately establishing network connectivity through automated network selection and credential retrieval. This segmentation allows each technology to excel at its specific function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary component (connection manager/server) that bridges the gap between device identification and network connectivity. This intermediary stores network topology information, credentials, and configuration data, enabling the mobile device to connect to the correct network without manual user input, thus resolving the connectivity issue while preserving the identification capability.
2Reliability
If manual network configuration is provided to ensure connectivity, then network connection reliability is improved, but administrative overhead increases especially as network information changes over time
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-storing network configuration data, credentials, and topology information in a centralized server or local cache before the user needs to connect. When a connection is needed, the system automatically retrieves and applies this pre-prepared information, eliminating the need for manual reconfiguration even as network information changes over time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the system continuously monitors network availability, connection status, and changes in network topology. Based on this feedback, the system automatically updates stored configuration data and credentials, ensuring that the most current network information is available for automatic connection establishment without requiring administrative intervention.
3Adaptability or versatility
If users are presented with multiple network SSIDs to select from, then network selection flexibility is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates because users do not know which network to use
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by automatically performing network selection based on stored configuration data and connection history. The mobile device autonomously determines which network to join, retrieves necessary credentials, and establishes connectivity without requiring the user to manually evaluate or select from multiple SSIDs, thus maintaining flexibility while dramatically improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
Network preferences, selection criteria, and configuration data are prepared in advance and stored in the system. When a user needs to connect to a network device, the system automatically applies these pre-established rules and information to select the appropriate network, eliminating the need for users to make complex decisions about which SSID to choose.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for establishing a network connection between a mobile device and a network device includes determining whether the mobile device has previously established a network connection with the network device, and determining whether the mobile device and the network device can connect using information corresponding to a previously established network connection. If the mobile device has not previously established a network connection with the network device or if the mobile device and the network device cannot connect using above information, the method includes determining whether one or more records of network connections corresponding to the network device exist, and determining if the mobile device and the network device can connect using information included in those records. If the mobile device and the network device can connect using the above information or records, the transmitter component of the mobile device establishes a new network connection with the network device.