Continous Network Discovery Using Opportunistic Scanning

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This patent describes a method and device for continuously discovering wireless networks, such as Wi-Fi or other wireless technologies, while maintaining ongoing communication sessions. The core technique involves briefly pausing (or 'freezing') data exchange with a connected device, scanning for available networks on a different channel for a short time (shorter than the minimum interval between network announcements), and then resuming the communication. This approach enables real-time, continuous discovery of available networks or technologies without noticeable interruptions to the user or significant impact on communication quality.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Mobile devices (smartphones, tablets, laptops) that need to discover the best available Wi-Fi or wireless network without interrupting active connections.
• Wireless mesh networks in smart cities or enterprise environments where constant network topology changes require real-time discovery.
• Mission-critical devices such as medical equipment or industrial automation systems where continuous network availability and smooth handover are crucial.
• Cognitive radio and white space devices that must detect primary users and switch frequencies to avoid interference, as per regulatory requirements.
• Connected vehicles and transportation systems that need seamless handovers between access points while on the move.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Enables continuous network or technology discovery without noticeably affecting ongoing data communication or degrading user experience.
• Maintains strict Quality of Service (QoS) requirements, suitable for real-time applications such as VoIP or telemetry.
• Reduces service interruption duration to a few milliseconds, making handovers seamless even during active sessions.
• Can be easily implemented with existing wireless standards (e.g., IEEE 802.11), supporting integration in current devices and infrastructure.
• Supports passive scanning, minimizing network overhead and avoiding disruption on the channels being scanned.
• Flexible design that supports various signal types (beacons, pilots, headers, energy patterns) and works across different frequency bands.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a method for network discovery in a wireless communication network comprising communication devices sending announcement signals regularly with a period being equal to or exceeding a predefined minimum announcement interval, wherein a first communication device a) communicates with a second communication device during a data exchange phase on a first channel; b) freezes the communication with the second device by signalling a freezing message terminating the data exchange phase; c) scans for the announcement signal of third communication devices on a second channel in a scan phase, wherein the scan phase duration is shorter than the minimum announcement interval; d) unfreezes the communication with the second communication device by signalling an unfreezing message; and e) repeats steps a) through d).