Remote Access Server for Mobile Device Local Network Continuity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods fail to enable mobile communication devices to maintain communication with their local networks when they leave the coverage area or are not connected, especially with private IP addresses behind Network Address Translators (NAT), limiting mobility and session continuity.
Innovation Solution
A remote access server with a controller and virtual device server creates a virtual mobile communication device, using public identities and alternate links to maintain session continuity and route data packets, allowing devices to communicate as if they were still connected to the local network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mobile communication device uses private IP addresses behind NAT for local network communication, then communication within the local network is enabled, but the device cannot maintain communication when leaving the local network coverage area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a remote access server as an intermediary between the mobile device and the local network. When the mobile device leaves the local network, the server acts as a mediator to relay communications, maintaining session continuity by bridging the gap between the device's public IP address and its private IP address in the local network.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a new communication dimension by establishing an alternate link through a remote access server via public networks (such as cellular data networks). This creates a parallel communication path that operates independently of the local Wi-Fi network, allowing the device to maintain connectivity from outside the local network coverage area.
2Device complexity
If conventional UPnP bridge methods are used to enable access across networks, then simple design is achieved, but private IP addresses behind NAT cannot be handled
Solution Approach 1:
The remote access server serves as a mediator that handles NAT traversal automatically. It receives communications from the mobile device using public IP addresses, performs the necessary address translation and packet routing, and forwards them to the local network devices using private IP addresses, thereby resolving NAT compatibility issues without requiring complex client-side implementation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual representation of the mobile device in the local network through the remote access server. This virtual copy maintains the device's network presence and session state, allowing local network devices to continue communicating with the mobile device as if it were still physically connected to the local network.
3Adaptability or versatility
If connection-based protocols like SIP are used for wide area network communication, then mobility is enabled, but process-intensive translation to UPnP is required with limited features
Solution Approach 1:
The remote access server provides multi-functional support by handling multiple communication protocols and scenarios. It can work with various UPnP devices and services while also supporting wide area network connectivity, eliminating the need for separate protocol translation layers and providing a unified solution that maintains full UPnP functionality alongside mobile connectivity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, device and system for allowing a mobile communication device, such as a DLNA/UPnP device, to continue to communicate with its local network, even when the mobile device leaves or loses contact with the local network. The method includes providing information to a remote access server to create a virtual mobile device in a local network. The virtual device communicates with other devices within the local network as if it is the actual mobile device. The remote access server is configured to route data packets between the virtual device and the mobile device via a second network that does not rely on the mobile nodes connection to the local network. A public IP address of the remote access server provided to the mobile device before the device leaves the local network is used to communicate with the virtual device via an IP-based public network coupled to the local network.