Segmented Network Architecture for Remote Connectivity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Providing reliable network connectivity to remote areas where wired access and cellular service are challenging, and satellite communication equipment is expensive and impractical for individual users.
Innovation Solution
A network communications system utilizing a segmented network architecture with level zero, one, and two nodes, employing different WLAN frequency bands for backbone and access segments, and dynamic tunneling to enable seamless roaming and self-healing capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If satellite communication equipment is used to provide Internet connectivity to remote areas, then network coverage and accessibility are improved, but system cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The network is divided into hierarchical levels (level zero, level one, level two nodes) where each node performs specific functions. Level zero nodes connect to external networks, level one nodes provide backhaul connectivity, and level two nodes provide access to client devices. This segmentation allows the system to achieve wide coverage while distributing complexity across multiple simple, standardized nodes rather than requiring complex satellite equipment at every location.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate network nodes (level one and level two nodes) that act as mediators between the external network and client devices in remote areas. These intermediate nodes relay communications and provide network services locally, eliminating the need for direct satellite equipment at each remote location while maintaining coverage and accessibility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a segmented network architecture with multiple nodes is deployed to extend network coverage, then network accessibility is improved, but network complexity and configuration difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
Network nodes automatically perform configuration, tunnel establishment, and role assignment without manual intervention. When a node joins the network, it autonomously determines its level (zero, one, or two) based on existing network topology, configures appropriate tunnels, and begins providing services. This self-service capability eliminates complex manual configuration while enabling widespread deployment of accessible network nodes.
Solution Approach 2:
The network topology and node roles are dynamically adjusted based on real-time conditions. Nodes can change their operational state and tunnel configurations automatically in response to network changes, failures, or new connections. This dynamic behavior allows the network to maintain accessibility while adapting to changing conditions without requiring manual reconfiguration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If dynamic tunnel provisioning is implemented to enable seamless roaming, then network mobility is improved, but signaling overhead and processing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Tunnels are pre-established and configured between nodes before actual data traffic flows through them. When nodes join the network, their tunnel endpoints and routing paths are predetermined and configured in advance. This preliminary action allows seamless roaming and mobility without requiring complex real-time tunnel reconfiguration, reducing processing complexity while maintaining network mobility.
4Ease of operation
If automated node provisioning is used to simplify deployment, then ease of deployment is improved, but reliability and network stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Automated provisioning systems incorporate feedback mechanisms that monitor network conditions, node status, and tunnel performance. Nodes continuously exchange status information and adjust their configurations based on feedback from the network environment. This feedback loop ensures that automated deployment maintains network stability and reliability by detecting and responding to issues without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates redundant pathways and backup configurations established in advance to cushion against potential failures. When provisioning nodes automatically, the system pre-configures alternative routes and failover mechanisms that activate if primary paths fail, ensuring network reliability is maintained despite automated deployment processes.
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein are systems and methods for dynamically provisioning network communications systems that use a segmented network architecture to provide wireless access to a satellite network to ultimately provide connectivity to an external network such as the Internet. The disclosed technologies enable dynamic and automated provisioning of network infrastructure that provides wireless access over a geographic area. The disclosed technologies also enable self-healing network nodes, or network nodes that can automatically reconfigure themselves to maintain network connectivity in the case that another network node ceases to function properly. Advantageously, this allows the disclosed network communications systems to be deployed, installed, and maintained by relatively unskilled operators or technicians. This may be particularly beneficial in remote communities where there is a lack of skilled network engineers.