Electrical computers and digital processing systems: multicomput – Multiple network interconnecting
Patent
1996-06-11
1999-10-05
Rinehart, Mark H.
Electrical computers and digital processing systems: multicomput
Multiple network interconnecting
709238, 709230, 455432, H04L 2906, G06F 1517
Patent
active
059616075
DESCRIPTION:
BRIEF SUMMARY
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The invention pertains to a system for transmitting data flow in data communication networks, for example in cellular networks or in stationary multi-computer networks.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
In recent years, parallel with the traditional cellular networks for voice communication, there has been an increase in the development of widely-varying cellular networks for the mobile transmission of data. The significance of these networks may be perceived from the fact that some network service providers are already making inter-continental networks available.
These networks, however, present to some degree considerable differences in regard to their underlying technology, their fee structure, and the geographical area which they cover. Beyond this, the network subscriber or network user often requires specific interfaces for individual user programs.
Owing to the existing heterogeneous cellular infrastructure, and since the mobility of today's users frequently dictates that network subscribers go beyond the coverage area of one cellular network and move into the coverage area of another (i.e. the network subscribers "roam"), it is often necessary to operate with varying data-communication networks simultaneously.
Generic transmission systems which only allow specifically-defined communication with a single physical network are already known. In the simplest instance, this type of system consists of a highly-specific applications program interface (API); in the most complex case they provide a standard protocol for data transmission to the user. There is, however, no known system of this type which integrates the varying physical networks under a single standard protocol.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
It is therefore the object of the present invention to provide a generic system which makes it possible for users to be able to select freely between the most varying networks, with as little technical expenditure as possible, and with minimal initial costs for equipment as well as operational costs, in order, for example, to respond to limited geographical coverage areas or to be able to move freely in terms of fees charged.
It is an additional goal that a mobile network subscriber's change from one mobile network to another should remain completely seamless for users in a stationary network or in another mobile network subscriber, in other words, that this change takes place exclusively between a stationary gateway and the mobile subscriber.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
As a solution to achieve this objective, the system in accordance with the invention provides: a user level, through which each network subscriber communicates and which is independent of a particular physical network; a network level possessing a network protocol which is independent of physical networks; a network integration unit, which integrates at least two varying physical networks and allows these networks to appear as one physical network at the network level; and also a network interface, which is configured between the network integration unit and the network level.
Network subscribers may be, for example, stationary or portable data processing equipment or test devices.
The network interface in accordance with the invention is designed as a common interface to all physical wireless networks. This arrangement is characterized first of all through a structural form which is simple to implement technically. In addition, the uniform application of communication protocols is made possible with this system.
Furthermore, the structural configuration in accordance with the invention is characterized by the fact that a network subscriber may still be reached under the same address at the network level after a change of the physical network.
In order to provide the best possible support to network subscribers for their individual applications and in their user areas, the varying mobile data communication networks may be wholly integrated by means of the system in accordance with the invention, and are accessible for u
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International Business Machines - Corporation
Patru Daniel
Ray-Yarletts Jeanine S.
Rinehart Mark H.
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