Adapting Fixed Access Point Coverage Using Vehicle Route Information
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication networks are inadequate for supporting complex networks involving both moving and static nodes, such as those found in the Internet of Moving Things and autonomous vehicle networks, as they fail to provide reliable and efficient connectivity and coverage.
Innovation Solution
A communication network platform that adapts to various environments by using mobile access points (OBUs) and fixed access points (FAPs) to create a flexible, scalable, and secure network architecture, enabling connectivity and Internet access for both mobile and static devices, with features like adaptive antenna coverage, power management, and multi-network interfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If fixed access points are used to provide wireless coverage, then network infrastructure is established, but coverage gaps and dead zones occur in areas with limited fixed access point deployment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines fixed access points (FAPs) with mobile access points (OBUs in vehicles) to form a hybrid network architecture. This merging allows the system to leverage both the stability of fixed infrastructure and the mobility of vehicle-mounted access points, eliminating coverage gaps in areas where FAPs are not deployed while maintaining reliable connectivity through multiple access options.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts the network architecture by transitioning between fixed and mobile access points based on real-time conditions. Vehicles equipped with OBUs move through coverage gaps and dead zones, dynamically providing wireless access where FAPs are absent. The system continuously monitors coverage quality and redirects users between FAPs and OBUs, making the network flexible and adaptive to changing environmental conditions.
2Reliability
If mobile access points are deployed to fill coverage gaps, then connectivity is improved in dead zones, but network complexity increases due to coordinating moving and static nodes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a centralized server as an intermediary that manages the hybrid network of FAPs and OBUs. This server handles authentication, authorization, accounting (AAA), and coordination between fixed and mobile access points, simplifying the overall system architecture. By centralizing control functions, the system reduces the complexity that would otherwise arise from coordinating numerous distributed mobile and static nodes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs a universal authentication and management framework that works seamlessly with both FAPs and OBUs. The same security protocols, user authentication mechanisms, and network management procedures apply regardless of whether the user connects via fixed or mobile access point, reducing operational complexity and enabling unified management of heterogeneous network elements.
3Use of energy by moving object
If adaptive antenna coverage is implemented, then energy efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases due to adaptive control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where OBUs and FAPs continuously monitor signal quality, user density, and coverage conditions. Based on this feedback, the system dynamically adjusts transmission power, antenna beam directions, and resource allocation. This feedback-driven adaptation enables energy-efficient operation by activating or adjusting only the necessary access points and antennas based on real-time demand, rather than operating all components at full capacity continuously.
Data Source
AI summary
Communication network architectures, systems and methods for supporting a network of mobile nodes. As non-limiting examples, various aspects of this disclosure provide systems and methods for adapting fixed access point coverage and/or power input/output in a network of moving things that may include autonomous vehicles.