Network-Based Sensor System for Seamless Private Public Network Transition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing monitoring systems for physical assets lack efficient and seamless transition between private and public networks, leading to gaps in location tracking and data transmission, especially when assets move across network boundaries.
Innovation Solution
A network-based sensing system that includes a sensor attached to the asset, a first wireless access point operating in a private network, and at least one cellular base station in a public network, allowing the sensor to determine its network coverage and switch between private and public networks for optimal data transmission to a cloud server, using a combination of location detection and coverage determination circuits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the sensor uses only private network for data transmission, then power consumption is reduced, but location tracking reliability deteriorates when asset moves outside private network coverage
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between private and public networks based on coverage availability. The sensor determines its location and checks for private network coverage, transitioning to public network when private coverage is unavailable, ensuring continuous monitoring while adapting to changing environmental conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (network selection logic) that mediates between the sensor and different network infrastructures. This intermediary determines the appropriate network path based on location and coverage status, resolving the contradiction between power efficiency and reliability
2Reliability
If the sensor switches between private and public networks, then location tracking reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor is designed with multi-functionality, incorporating both private and public network communication capabilities within a single device. This universal design allows the sensor to operate across different network infrastructures without requiring separate dedicated devices for each network type
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback mechanisms where the sensor continuously monitors its location and network coverage status, then adjusts its transmission path accordingly. This closed-loop control simplifies the switching logic by using real-time status information to automatically determine the appropriate network
3Reliability
If the sensor transmits data continuously using public network, then location tracking reliability is maintained, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies different transmission strategies based on local conditions. When private network coverage is available locally, the sensor uses this lower-power option. When outside private coverage, it switches to public network transmission, optimizing power consumption according to the local network environment
Data Source
AI summary
A network-based sensing system for monitoring an object is disclosed. The system includes a sensor, attached to the object, that collects object information, a first wireless access point that operates in a first private network covering a first private region, and at least one cellular base station that operates in a public network outside of the first private region. The sensor includes functionality to detect a location of the sensor in a location detection period and to determine a type of network coverage of the sensor. The sensor establishes connection with the first wireless access point via a first private network for transmitting the object information, when the sensor is covered by the first private network, and with the at least one cellular base station via a public cellular network for transmitting the object information, when the sensor is covered by only the public cellular network.