Ad Hoc Network Initiation via Selective Probe Response
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Solution Overview
Problem
In ad hoc wireless networks, devices often simultaneously initiate separate networks when attempting to connect, leading to the creation of two separate networks instead of a single joint network, resulting in a poor user experience due to the time-consuming process of merging these networks.
Innovation Solution
Implementing the 'WPSE scan' operational mode, where devices respond only to probe request frames from similarly enabled devices, allowing them to determine which device should initiate the network and potentially join an existing network, thereby avoiding the creation of duplicate networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If devices simultaneously initiate separate ad hoc networks when attempting to connect, then each device can independently establish its own network, but two separate networks are created instead of a single joint network, resulting in time-consuming merging processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having devices check for existing ad hoc networks before initiating a new one. When a device receives a probe request, it determines whether the requesting device is actively setting up an ad hoc network and responds accordingly, preventing duplicate network creation before it occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through probe request and probe response messages that allow devices to communicate their network initiation status. By exchanging this information, devices can determine which device should start the network and adjust their behavior to avoid creating separate networks.
2Adaptability or versatility
If devices respond to all probe request frames, then connectivity opportunities are maximized, but duplicate networks are created when multiple devices simultaneously initiate networks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having devices check for existing ad hoc networks before initiating a new one. When a device receives a probe request, it determines whether the requesting device is actively setting up an ad hoc network and responds accordingly, preventing duplicate network creation before it occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by making the probe response behavior context-dependent. Devices differentiate their responses based on the specific condition of whether the requesting device is actively setting up an ad hoc network, allowing selective response that prevents duplicate networks while maintaining connectivity flexibility.
3Ease of operation
If devices use standard probe request/response procedures, then the network initiation process is simple, but devices cannot determine which device should initiate the network, leading to duplicate network creation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having devices check for existing ad hoc networks before initiating a new one. When a device receives a probe request, it determines whether the requesting device is actively setting up an ad hoc network and responds accordingly, preventing duplicate network creation before it occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism in the form of probe request and probe response messages that carry information about network initiation status. This intermediary communication allows devices to coordinate and determine which device should start the network without adding significant complexity to the initiation process.
Data Source
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Figure 1B
Figure 2A~2A'
AI summary
Method, apparatus, and computer program product embodiments are disclosed to improve network performance for ad hoc network initiation. Example embodiments include a new operational sequence for wireless devices initiating the use of an ad hoc network. The example embodiments require appropriately enabled wireless devices to only respond to probe request frames from other similarly appropriately enabled wireless devices. In this manner, two devices may avoid the time consuming effort of combining two different ad hoc networks into a single ad hoc network so that the two devices can communicate.