Wireless Device Configuration via Network Location Services
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wireless communication devices, such as DECT headsets, face compliance issues with national radio frequency spectrum regulations when used across different countries or regions, leading to potential interference and the need for multiple device versions, which is inconvenient for travelers and manufacturers.
Innovation Solution
A method to configure wireless communications devices based on real-time location information obtained from a service provider via a connected computing device, ensuring compliance with local regulations by selecting the appropriate configuration profile for frequency bands and power levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a GPS receiver is integrated in the device to determine location, then location accuracy is improved, but device cost and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by leveraging the computing device's existing network connection and location services to obtain location information, rather than integrating a GPS receiver directly in the wireless communications device. This mediator approach allows the device to access location data through the computing device's network interface, avoiding the need for additional GPS hardware while maintaining location accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The computing device serves multiple functions: it provides communication capabilities, stores configuration profiles, and determines location through network services. By making the computing device universal and having it handle location determination, the patent avoids adding specialized GPS hardware to the wireless communications device, thus reducing device complexity and cost.
2Adaptability or versatility
If devices are configured to scan local environment for DECT signals to determine operating characteristics, then adaptability to local regulations is improved, but reliability decreases when devices are recently switched on from different regions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the computing device determine location information and select the appropriate configuration profile before the wireless communications device actually needs to transmit. The configuration is prepared in advance based on pre-obtained location data from network services, ensuring that when the device activates, it already has the correct configuration rather than having to scan and potentially select the wrong profile.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from network-based location services to automatically adjust the device configuration. The computing device queries network services for location information, receives feedback about the current region, and uses this feedback to select the appropriate configuration profile, ensuring reliable and accurate configuration without manual intervention or erroneous scanning.
3Reliability
If multiple device versions are produced for different countries, then compliance with local regulations is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the device universal by incorporating a configuration mechanism that allows a single hardware version to operate compliantly in multiple countries. The computing device stores multiple configuration profiles corresponding to different regions and automatically selects the appropriate one based on location information, eliminating the need for manufacturers to produce multiple hardware versions for different markets.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static hardware configurations to dynamic software-based configuration. Instead of having different hardware versions for different countries, the patent uses dynamic configuration profiles that can be automatically loaded and changed based on the device's location, allowing a single device to adapt its operating parameters dynamically to comply with local regulations.
Data Source
AI summary
A wireless communications device (2) and an interface unit (3) in a mobile communications system are configured. The interface unit (3) is connected to the wireless communications device (2) according to a wireless communication protocol and to a computing device (1) connected to a communications network (5) via an access point (7) having an address. The computing device (1) is requested to visit a service provider (8) on the network (5), which based on the address of said access point (7) can provide location information regarding said access point (7). In dependence thereof one of a number of stored configuration profiles are determined, and the interface unit (3) is configured accordingly. A configuration request comprising said determined configuration profile is transmitted to the wireless communications device (2), which is then configured accordingly, and a communications link can be established between the interface unit (3) and the wireless communications device (2).