Specialized SSID Beaconing for Seamless WLAN Handoff
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless network transition methods often result in time-consuming and disruptive hand-offs between networks, leading to communication interruptions as mobile devices move between different wireless networks.
Innovation Solution
The use of strategically placed transmitters broadcasting specialized SSIDs (signaling SSIDs) that provide advance notification of network changes, allowing mobile devices to proactively initiate seamless transitions between wireless networks by encoding information about nearby networks, including network boundaries, security settings, and coverage areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional wireless network hand-off methods are used, then network coverage can be provided across multiple networks, but communication interruptions occur during hand-off transitions
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by broadcasting signaling SSIDs that notify mobile devices of upcoming network changes before the actual hand-off occurs. This advance notification allows devices to proactively initiate transition procedures, preparing for network changes in advance rather than reacting after connection loss occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where mobile devices monitor signaling SSIDs and provide feedback about their network status and transition needs. This enables the network infrastructure to adjust hand-off timing and parameters based on actual device conditions, optimizing the transition process and minimizing interruptions.
2Productivity
If traditional wireless network hand-off methods are used, then network coverage can be provided across multiple networks, but hand-off process is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
By broadcasting signaling SSIDs in advance of actual network changes, the system enables mobile devices to begin transition procedures before the hand-off is needed. This preliminary action significantly reduces the actual hand-off duration by pre-establishing connection parameters and authentication credentials.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts hand-off timing and parameters based on real-time network conditions and device mobility patterns. Signaling SSIDs are broadcast at optimized intervals and locations, allowing the system to adapt transition speed to match actual network landscape changes and device movement rates.
3Reliability
If signaling SSIDs are broadcast to provide advance notification, then seamless transitions can be achieved, but additional signaling infrastructure is required
Solution Approach 1:
The signaling SSID infrastructure is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides hand-off notifications, conveys network information, and enables device positioning. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated signaling systems, as the same infrastructure supports multiple network management tasks simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The signaling SSID acts as an intermediary mechanism that bridges the gap between network infrastructure and mobile devices during transitions. Rather than requiring direct complex communication protocols between all network elements, the signaling SSID provides a standardized intermediate layer that simplifies the overall system architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for communicating wireless network landscape information to a mobile device is shown and described. Strategic placement of beaconing devices that are encoded with pre-defined, specialized SSIDs allows information to be forwarded to the mobile clients to trigger specific behavior in the clients and to enable the clients to pro-actively control network transitions, thereby increasing their ability to provide seamless communications.