Cable Interference Detection via FFT Signal Signature

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for detecting and correcting interference in wireless networks caused by cable networks are resource-intensive, often requiring weeks or months to identify and resolve issues, as they rely on skilled technicians with test equipment to locate signal degradation sources.

Innovation Solution

A method and system using a cable interference detection device that obtains a signal signature of wireless signals through Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) representation and compares it to a stored cable network signal signature to determine if interference is caused by a cable network, allowing for automated detection and localization of interference sources.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If manual detection methods using test equipment are used, then measurement precision can be achieved, but loss of time increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinterference detection accuracyVSAvoidtime to identify and correct interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The wireless network device performs self-diagnosis by automatically detecting interference signals and identifying cable network sources without requiring external test equipment or skilled technicians. The device monitors its own radio channels, compares signal characteristics against stored profiles, and autonomously determines interference causes and locations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical detection processes with automated electronic signal processing. Instead of physically moving test equipment to locate interference sources, the system uses electronic comparison of signal signatures and fast Fourier transform analysis to automatically identify and locate interference sources.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Loss of time

If automated detection systems are implemented, then loss of time is reduced, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetime to identify and correct interferenceVSAvoiddetection system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The detection system leverages existing components within the wireless network device to perform multiple functions. The same radio channel monitoring and signal processing capabilities used for normal wireless communication are also utilized for interference detection, eliminating the need for separate dedicated detection hardware.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system pre-stores cable network signal profiles and characteristics before interference occurs. When interference is detected, the system compares real-time signal characteristics against these pre-established profiles to rapidly identify cable network sources, avoiding the need for complex real-time analysis.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Measurement precision

If skilled technicians with test equipment are deployed, then measurement precision is maintained, but productivity decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinterference source identification accuracyVSAvoidinterference resolution speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The wireless network device autonomously performs interference detection and analysis without requiring skilled technicians. The device automatically monitors its radio channels, analyzes signal characteristics, identifies interference sources, and provides location information, replacing the need for human expertise in the detection process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system continuously monitors radio channel conditions and provides feedback about interference presence and characteristics. This ongoing monitoring and analysis enables rapid identification of interference sources without requiring manual intervention, maintaining both accuracy and speed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This approach significantly reduces the time and resources needed to identify and correct interference issues by enabling automated detection and localization of cable network interference, improving the efficiency of wireless network maintenance.

Implementation Method 1

obtains a signal signature of a wireless signal received at a receiver of a mobile communication device, the signal signature being a fast fourier transform representation of the wireless signal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFast Fourier Transform:

Data Source

PatentUS9167460B2Detection of cable network interference on wireless network
Publication Date: 2015.10.20 ROGERS COMMUNICATIONS
  • US9167460B2 patent drawing
  • US9167460B2 patent drawing
  • US9167460B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Described are methods and devices for detecting cable network interference on a wireless network. In one aspect, disclosed is a method, performed by a processor of a cable interference detection device, of detecting interference in a wireless network caused by a cable network. The method includes: obtaining a signal signature of a wireless signal received at a receiver of a mobile communication device, the signal signature being a fast fourier transform representation of the wireless signal; and determining that the wireless signal represents interference caused by the cable network by comparing the signal signature to a cable network signal signature.