Adaptive Channel Scanning in Wireless Access Points
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing channel scanning methods in wireless access points (APs) are inefficient as they do not consider the amount and type of wireless traffic, leading to potential data loss when scanning other channels.
Innovation Solution
Implementing adaptive channel scanning and changing methods in APs based on the amount of wireless device traffic, type of call, and power-save status to optimize channel usage and prevent data loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the AP performs periodic channel scanning to measure coverage and interference characteristics, then the network can identify optimal channels, but the AP cannot service wireless devices on its current operating channel during scanning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic channel scanning by adjusting scanning behavior based on real-time network conditions. The AP monitors traffic patterns and adapts scanning frequency and duration dynamically, allowing scanning to occur during low-traffic periods while maintaining service during high-traffic periods, thus resolving the contradiction between reliable channel selection and continuous device service capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic channel scanning with variable intervals. Instead of continuous scanning, the AP performs scanning at predetermined intervals adjusted based on network traffic conditions. This periodic approach allows the AP to scan for optimal channels while maintaining service to wireless devices during most operational time, resolving the contradiction between channel selection reliability and service productivity
2Reliability
If the AP scans all channels periodically to ensure optimal channel selection, then channel coverage and interference characteristics are measured, but scanning efficiency is reduced due to not considering traffic conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes scanning parameters dynamically based on network conditions. The AP adjusts scanning interval, duration, and scope according to measured traffic patterns, device types, and channel utilization. This parameter adaptation allows the system to maintain accurate channel selection by scanning thoroughly when needed while reducing scanning time during stable conditions, resolving the contradiction between selection accuracy and time efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the AP continuously monitors wireless traffic conditions, device associations, and channel utilization metrics. This feedback information is used to adapt scanning behavior, focusing scanning efforts on channels that need monitoring while reducing scanning on stable channels. The feedback loop enables the system to maintain accurate channel selection while minimizing unnecessary scanning time
3Reliability
If the AP stops channel scanning when traffic conditions indicate potential data loss risk, then data loss probability is reduced, but channel selection may be delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-establishing multiple candidate channels and their characteristics before actual data transmission begins. The AP performs initial channel scanning and evaluation in advance, storing channel information in a database. When channel switching is needed, the system can quickly select from pre-evaluated channels rather than performing comprehensive scanning at the moment of need, thus maintaining data reliability while reducing response time
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic decision-making for channel switching based on real-time traffic analysis. The AP continuously monitors traffic conditions and dynamically determines when channel scanning should be suspended to prevent data loss. This dynamic approach allows the system to maintain data reliability by avoiding scanning during critical transmission periods while minimizing delays through intelligent, condition-based channel selection decisions
Data Source
AI summary
An access point device that is adapted to a wireless network and a wired network is disclosed. The access point includes a transceiver to receive wireless frames from a plurality of wireless devices of the wireless network, respectively, and at least one component to process information extracted from the wireless frames and to control channel scanning based upon at least one of an amount of wireless device traffic and a type of call.