BSS Color Selection via Interference Estimation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Random assignment of Basic Service Set (BSS) color values in wireless networks can lead to network degradation due to interference, as existing methods do not consider the environmental factors such as other network devices' channels, assigned BSS colors, and network busyness when selecting BSS colors.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that estimate interference levels of available BSS color values in a specified channel by collecting information from network devices, filtering relevant data, and selecting a BSS color value with a lower interference level to minimize network interference, using equations to calculate interference based on received signal strength indication (RSSI) and active frame ratios.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If BSS color values are randomly assigned to network devices, then the assignment process is simple and fast, but network performance degrades due to interference from conflicting color assignments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the BSS color parameter from random assignment to environment-based selection. The system evaluates multiple parameters including operating channel, assigned BSS colors of neighboring devices, network busyness, and interference levels to select optimal color values that minimize conflicts and improve network reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system continuously monitors the wireless environment, collects information about neighboring network devices, estimates interference levels for available BSS colors, and uses this feedback to select optimal color assignments that reduce network degradation
2Reliability
If BSS color values are selected based on environmental factors and interference estimation, then network interference is reduced, but the complexity of the color selection process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-collecting information about the wireless environment, including operating channels and BSS color assignments of neighboring devices, before selecting BSS colors. This preliminary data collection and environment assessment simplifies the subsequent color selection process while ensuring optimal performance
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by autonomously monitoring its own wireless environment, estimating interference levels for different BSS color options, and selecting optimal color assignments without requiring external intervention or complex manual configuration
Data Source
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AI summary
An example network device may include a processor to receive information of a set of devices including at least one network device; estimate interferences of available basic service set (BSS) color values in a specified channel, based on the received information; and select one BSS color value with the interference lower than others from the available BSS color values.