AP Sensor Coverage Estimation for Wireless KPI Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Monitoring network performance in high-density wireless deployments is expensive and inefficient due to the need for on-site technicians and dedicated hardware, and using existing Access Points (APs) as sensors can interfere with client service.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing existing APs with dual radios to dynamically switch between frequencies, identifying redundant radios to mitigate interference, and selecting a subset of APs as sensors through Flexible Radio Assignment (FRA) to optimize coverage and functionality without harming client service.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If radio sensor coverage is manually tested by physically moving through the coverage area, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the physical testing process by using probe virtual images and a virtual probe environment. Instead of physically moving sensors through the coverage area, the system generates virtual representations of probe positions and uses image processing techniques to analyze coverage patterns, thereby eliminating time-consuming physical movement while maintaining measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of physically moving sensors and manually recording coverage data with an automated image processing system. The system uses virtual probe images captured by cameras or sensors, then applies automated image analysis algorithms to determine coverage areas, eliminating the need for manual physical testing and data collection.
2Measurement precision
If multiple probes are tested individually for coverage, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the testing process for multiple probes into a single integrated system. Instead of testing each probe separately with individual equipment, the system captures virtual images of multiple probe positions simultaneously and processes them through a unified image analysis algorithm, thereby maintaining precise measurement while reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal testing system that can handle multiple different probe types and configurations through a single platform. The virtual probe image generation and image processing system is designed to be multi-functional, accommodating various sensor types, mounting configurations, and coverage patterns without requiring separate specialized equipment for each probe type.
Data Source
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AI summary
An apparatus, computer program product, and method relating to radio sensor coverage estimation for wireless network assurance. A network controller estimates a network sensor coverage level for candidate access points (APs), based on potential use of the candidate APs as network sensors to measure at least one key performance indicator (KPI). The controller determines a subset of the candidate APs, based on evaluating candidate APs for suitability as network sensors. The controller estimates a second network sensor coverage level for the subset of candidate APs, based on potential use of the subset of candidate APs as network sensors. The controller determines that the second network sensor coverage level is within a pre-defined threshold of the first network sensor coverage level, and provisions a radio in each AP in the subset of candidate APs as a network sensor to measure at least one KPI.