Configurable Antenna Hidden Node Minimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
The Hidden Node Problem in wireless networks, where devices not visible to each other cause interference and reduce network efficiency, leading to performance degradation and frequent disconnections, especially in densely populated areas, is not adequately addressed by existing solutions like RTS/CTS mechanisms which incur significant overhead and fail for broadcast frames.
Innovation Solution
A method that establishes a communication path to identify hidden nodes by comparing visible devices between two network devices, using a configurable antenna to restrict its visibility range, thereby minimizing the number of hidden nodes by deactivating antenna sectors that do not contribute to the signal quality, ensuring only necessary sectors remain active.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If RTS/CTS mechanism is used to counter hidden nodes, then collision protection is improved, but network overhead increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of antenna directionality from omnidirectional to directional, fundamentally altering how devices detect and respond to hidden nodes. This allows the system to maintain reliability without requiring RTS/CTS overhead by physically controlling which devices can be detected as hidden nodes through directional antenna beams.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the omnidirectional visibility range into multiple directional sectors. By dividing the 360-degree detection range into discrete directional beams, the system can selectively activate only necessary sectors, reducing the probability of hidden node detection while maintaining connection reliability, thereby eliminating the need for RTS/CTS overhead.
2Area of stationary object
If omnidirectional antenna is used, then visibility range is maximized, but hidden node interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making different parts of the antenna system serve different functions. Specifically, different antenna sectors are activated based on local conditions - only sectors pointing toward known devices remain active, while sectors that would detect hidden nodes are deactivated. This localized control of antenna activation reduces hidden node interference while maintaining sufficient visibility range.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic antenna configuration where the active antenna sectors change based on network conditions. The system continuously adapts which sectors are active based on device positions and hidden node detection, transforming the static omnidirectional antenna into a dynamic directional system that optimizes visibility while minimizing hidden node exposure.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If directional antenna sectors are deactivated to reduce hidden nodes, then hidden node interference decreases, but new device access may be hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by proactively deactivating antenna sectors that would detect hidden nodes before interference can occur. By pre-configuring the antenna system to avoid hidden node detection, the system prevents interference while maintaining open access for legitimate new devices through the remaining active sectors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the system monitors for hidden node conditions and dynamically adjusts antenna sector activation. When hidden nodes are detected or suspected, the system provides feedback to deactivate relevant sectors, and when conditions improve, sectors are reactivated, creating a self-regulating system that balances hidden node reduction with new device access.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention proposes a method for optimizing a wireless network connection when at least one of the devices comprises a configurable antenna. For avoiding Hidden Nodes problems, it is proposed to modify the configurable antenna in such a way that the number of third network devices seen only by the network device having the configurable antenna is minimized.