Network Selection for Wireless Communication
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methodologies for selecting wireless communication networks are inefficient due to differences in transmission protocols between public land mobile networks (PLMNs) and wireless local area networks (WLANs), with network roaming primarily controlled by the network rather than the terminal, leading to suboptimal service access and high costs.
Innovation Solution
A method for selecting a network based on operational parameters such as bandwidth, cost, frame rate, and signal path delay, involving the terminal and a third-party service provider or network handover decision server to gather and analyze data from multiple networks, using SIP signals to invite responses and make informed decisions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If network roaming is controlled primarily through the network rather than the terminal, then network management is simplified, but service access optimization and cost-effectiveness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network selection control function by introducing a dedicated network selection entity that operates independently from both the terminal and the network operator. This entity receives information from multiple networks, evaluates them based on predefined criteria, and makes autonomous selection decisions, thereby separating the complexity of multi-network evaluation from both the terminal and network infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a network selection entity as an intermediary component that mediates between multiple networks and the terminal. This intermediary gathers network information, performs evaluation according to operator policies and user preferences, and selects the most appropriate network, thus optimizing service access without requiring complex changes to existing network or terminal systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple networks with different transmission protocols are accessed, then service availability is improved, but selection methodology complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal network selection entity that can handle multiple networks with different transmission protocols (PLMN, WLAN, WiMAX) through a single standardized interface. This entity uses common evaluation criteria and information elements to assess diverse networks, providing multi-functional capability without requiring separate selection mechanisms for each network type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter-based evaluation where networks are assessed using standardized information elements such as bandwidth, cost, frame rate, and signal path delay. By converting diverse network capabilities into comparable parameter formats, the system can objectively evaluate and select among different network types using consistent methodology.
3Ease of operation
If terminal-based network selection is implemented, then service access flexibility is improved, but network coordination and roaming efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by having the network selection entity gather and evaluate network information in advance before actual service access is needed. This pre-evaluation allows the system to maintain updated knowledge of network conditions, costs, and capabilities, enabling rapid and informed selection decisions when service is required without real-time coordination overhead.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the network selection entity continuously receives information from networks about their current state, performance, and availability. This feedback loop enables the entity to dynamically adjust its evaluations and selections based on real-time conditions, improving both flexibility and coordination efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile station MS1 can communicate through a PLMN (2) and also through a number of local wireless networks e.g. WLAN (6) and WiMAX (7). When the user of MS1 wishes to run an application, for example an video player application, a suitable one of the networks is selected for the communication by obtaining data from the candidate networks using SIP INVITE messages that produce responses containing network parameter data for each of the candidate networks. The handset MS1 may also monitor local network traffic to determine network congestion and also check past history to determine whether many handovers have been made during previous sessions. The data is collated and checked with a service provider (10) so that a network selection decision can be made.