WLAN Device PRL Distribution via Intermediary
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Solution Overview
Problem
The distribution of a preferred roaming list (PRL) in cellular communication networks is challenging in areas with poor service coverage and consumes bandwidth needed for user communications, such as data services and voice calls.
Innovation Solution
A wireless local area network (WLAN) device receives a request for network access from a wireless communication device, identifies a PRL, and transfers it to the device, allowing the device to access cellular communication services, thereby providing an alternative pathway for PRL distribution independent of the home cellular network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If PRL is distributed over the home cellular network, then the wireless communication device can access cellular services, but bandwidth is consumed that could be used for user communications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a WLAN network as an intermediary channel for PRL distribution. Instead of directly distributing PRL over the cellular network, the system uses the WLAN network as a mediator to transfer PRL data to the wireless communication device, thereby separating the PRL distribution function from the cellular network bandwidth resources.
2Reliability
If PRL is distributed over the home cellular network, then the wireless communication device can determine roaming networks, but the process is difficult to achieve in areas of poor cellular service coverage
Solution Approach 1:
The WLAN access point acts as an intermediary that enables PRL distribution in areas where cellular coverage is poor. The device can establish a WLAN connection independently of cellular signal strength, allowing PRL updates to be received even when cellular service is unavailable or weak.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a new dimension for PRL distribution by utilizing the WLAN network infrastructure, which operates independently from the cellular network coverage areas. This creates an alternative pathway that is not constrained by cellular signal availability.
3Quantity of substance
If alternative PRL distribution pathway is used via WLAN, then bandwidth consumption on cellular network is reduced, but additional network infrastructure is required
Solution Approach 1:
The WLAN infrastructure is utilized for multiple purposes: it serves both as a standard wireless network for general data communication and as an additional channel for PRL distribution. This multi-functionality reduces the need for dedicated specialized infrastructure while achieving the goal of reducing cellular bandwidth consumption.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and software for providing a preferred roaming list (PRL) to a wireless communication device are provided herein. In one example, a method of operating a wireless local area network (WLAN) device is presented. The method includes receiving a request for network access to the WLAN from a wireless communication device, identifying a PRL for the wireless communication device responsive to at least the request, where the wireless communication device can use the PRL to access a cellular communication service. The method also includes transferring the PRL to the wireless communication device.