Multi-network OBU Wi-Fi Offloading for Autonomous Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication networks are inadequate for supporting complex arrays of both moving and static nodes, such as autonomous vehicle networks, as they fail to provide efficient connectivity and data management.
Innovation Solution
A dynamically configurable communication network architecture that integrates mobile and static nodes, utilizing multi-network on-board units (OBUs) to create a mesh of communication links, leveraging public and private Wi-Fi hotspots for intelligent traffic offloading and data management, with adaptive protocols for energy efficiency and reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If current communication networks are used to support mobile and static nodes, then network coverage is provided, but connectivity efficiency and data management capability are inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication network into multiple functional components: mobile access points (OBUs) for mobile nodes, fixed access points for static nodes, gateway nodes for network interconnection, and cloud-based servers for data management. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in specific functions, improving overall connectivity efficiency and data management capability while maintaining network coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements multi-functional OBUs that can operate as both mobile access points providing Wi-Fi connectivity and as relay nodes forwarding data between mobile and fixed networks. This universality enables a single device to serve multiple purposes, enhancing connectivity efficiency and adaptability across different network scenarios without requiring separate dedicated devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multi-network OBUs are integrated to create mesh communication links, then connectivity for mobile and static nodes is improved, but network complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where OBUs and gateway nodes continuously monitor network conditions (signal strength, traffic load, connectivity status) and automatically adjust their behavior accordingly. Mobile nodes receive feedback about available networks and can dynamically select optimal connections, while gateway nodes receive feedback about traffic patterns and can intelligently route data, reducing the need for complex manual configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables self-service operation where OBUs automatically perform network discovery, authentication, and data routing without requiring complex centralized control. The mesh network autonomously establishes and maintains connections based on local conditions, with OBUs independently managing their own connectivity and the network automatically reconfiguring itself when nodes move or network conditions change.
3Productivity
If intelligent traffic offloading to Wi-Fi hotspots is implemented, then data transfer optimization is achieved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically adjusts traffic offloading decisions based on real-time conditions including signal strength, network load, and energy availability. OBUs can flexibly switch between different communication modes (direct Wi-Fi connection, relay through other OBUs, or traditional cellular) depending on current network conditions and energy constraints, optimizing data transfer while managing energy consumption adaptively rather than through fixed rigid rules.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for intelligent offloading of traffic to public and private Wi-Fi hotspots leveraging the cloud in a network of moving things.