Access Point Agent for Self-Organizing Network Path Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Setting up and configuring wireless local area networks (WLANs) with multiple access points to offload capacity from wireless wide area networks is challenging, requiring automated methods to simplify setup and operation while maintaining combined control with SON controllers.
Innovation Solution
The system employs an agent application on access points that includes a SON connection controller and access point controller, which automatically determines available communication paths and establishes connections with a SON controller using prioritized paths, facilitating automated setup and management of both WLANs and wide area networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If automated setup methods are implemented for wireless local area networks, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The access point automatically performs setup and configuration tasks by autonomously establishing communication paths with the SON controller. The system self-configures by selecting communication paths and exchanging messages without requiring manual intervention, thereby improving ease of operation while the automation handles the complexity internally
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an agent application as an intermediary component that facilitates communication between the access point and the SON controller. This agent handles the complex path selection and message exchange protocols, encapsulating the complexity within a manageable intermediary layer that simplifies the overall system operation
2Reliability
If multiple communication paths are monitored and selected automatically, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically selects communication paths based on current network conditions and availability. The access point monitors multiple potential paths and adapts its selection in real-time, allowing the system to maintain reliable connections by responding to changing conditions without requiring static complex configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the access point monitors the status of communication paths and reports back to the SON controller. This feedback loop enables the system to detect path failures and automatically switch to alternative paths, improving reliability while the feedback structure organizes the complexity into manageable information flows
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes initiating, by an agent application of an access point, a communication connection to a self-organizing network controller via a particular communication path to the self-organizing network controller. The particular communication path is identified in a prioritized set of communication paths to the self-organizing network controller. The method includes receiving, at the access point, control data from the self-organizing network controller via the particular communication path. The control data includes an instruction for a station, the station in communication with the access point via a wireless local area network supported by the access point. The method also includes sending the instruction to the station from the access point via the wireless local area network. The instruction is executable by the station to cause the station to modify a data transmission rate of the station.