Wireless Network Selection via Active Intermediate Server Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for selecting a wireless network from multiple available options rely on passive measurements, which may not provide an accurate picture of performance, especially for inactive networks, leading to suboptimal connectivity.
Innovation Solution
A wireless communications system that includes a mobile device communicating with an application server through an intermediate server, which actively determines the best network by passing test data and generating scoring data based on metrics like round trip ping time, packet burst rate, and signal quality, and switches to the most suitable network dynamically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If passive measurements (signal strength, location, historical data) are used to select wireless networks, then the selection process is simple and low-cost, but the accuracy of performance assessment is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary active measurements by sending test data packets through the intermediate server before final network selection. This preliminary action allows the mobile device to assess actual network performance (latency, packet loss, throughput) rather than relying solely on passive historical data, thereby improving measurement precision while maintaining manageable complexity through structured test protocols
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediate server is introduced as a mediator between the mobile device and application servers. This intermediary facilitates active measurements by receiving test data from the mobile device and returning results, enabling accurate performance assessment of multiple wireless networks without requiring direct complex interactions between mobile devices and distant application servers
2Reliability
If active measurements with intermediate server are implemented, then network performance assessment accuracy is improved, but system complexity and overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate server performs multiple functions: it acts as a relay for test data transmission, a collector of performance metrics, a processor of measurement results, and a selector of optimal networks. This multi-functionality consolidates complex operations into a single system component, improving network selection reliability while preventing exponential growth in overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback loops where the intermediate server continuously monitors network performance through active measurements, compares results against selection criteria, and dynamically adjusts network selections. This feedback mechanism ensures reliable network selection by constantly adapting to changing network conditions while maintaining systematic control through automated decision-making
3Productivity
If multiple wireless networks are continuously monitored with active measurements, then the most optimal network can be selected, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs partial active measurements by selecting a subset of test parameters (latency, packet loss, throughput) and limiting measurement frequency to periodic intervals rather than continuous monitoring. This partial action approach maintains network selection optimization by capturing essential performance variations while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to exhaustive continuous measurements
Solution Approach 2:
Active measurements are performed periodically at scheduled intervals rather than continuously. The mobile device and intermediate server coordinate periodic test data transmissions, allowing the system to track network performance trends over time and make optimal selections while conserving mobile device energy during intervals between measurements
Data Source
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AI summary
A wireless communications system may include different wireless communications networks, an application server, and an intermediate server configured to communicate with the application server. The wireless communications system may also include a mobile wireless communications device configured to communicate with the intermediate server over each of the different wireless communications networks to determine a selected wireless communications network. The mobile wireless communications device may also be configured to communicate with the application server via the intermediate server over the selected wireless communications network.