Closed-loop automatic channel selection for wireless interference

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current automatic channel selection algorithms in wireless communication networks, such as those following IEEE 802.11 standards, fail to effectively minimize interference due to their open-loop models, which do not account for differential environmental conditions, transmit power levels, and frequency-specific noise, leading to suboptimal channel selection during communication sessions.

Innovation Solution

A closed-loop method that measures actual maximum user throughput and channel quality by sending test traffic data, storing the results, and dynamically adjusting the transmission channel using a dynamic frequency selection mechanism to minimize interference, considering environmental conditions and power levels.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If open-loop automatic channel selection algorithms are used, then device complexity is reduced, but channel selection optimization and interference minimization deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvechannel selection algorithm complexityVSAvoidchannel selection optimization
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a closed-loop channel selection algorithm that continuously measures actual maximum user throughput and channel quality indicators, then uses this feedback to dynamically adjust channel assignments. The system monitors differential environmental conditions, transmit power levels, and frequency-specific noise, and re-optimizes channel selection based on real-time measurements, thereby resolving the contradiction between algorithm complexity and optimization effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary channel quality assessments and throughput measurements before final channel assignment decisions. By pre-evaluating differential environmental conditions and noise characteristics across available channels, the algorithm prepares optimized channel selections in advance, improving reliability without requiring excessively complex real-time processing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Object-affected harmful factors

If channel hopping is implemented to avoid interference, then interference minimization is improved, but loss of time increases due to frequent channel changes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinterference from other access pointsVSAvoidtime for channel switching
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic channel selection that adapts to changing interference conditions while maintaining stability. The closed-loop algorithm continuously monitors channel quality and interference levels, making channel transitions only when measurements indicate a significant improvement is available. This dynamic approach balances interference avoidance with minimizing unnecessary channel switches, thereby reducing time loss while maintaining interference minimization benefits.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Productivity

If more channels are utilized to increase throughput, then productivity is improved, but object-generated harmful factors worsen due to increased interference

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata throughputVSAvoidinterference from radio transmitting devices
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality optimization by evaluating and selecting channels based on their specific interference characteristics and environmental conditions for each local area. The closed-loop algorithm measures channel quality indicators and throughput performance on a per-channel basis, assigning channels with better local quality characteristics to specific access points or time periods. This allows the system to utilize multiple channels for increased throughput while minimizing interference by selecting channels with locally optimal quality characteristics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS10985789B2Closed-loop automatic channel selection
Publication Date: 2021.04.20 RUCKUS IP HOLDINGS LLC
  • US10985789B2 patent drawing
  • US10985789B2 patent drawing
  • US10985789B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system and method for improving radio performance through automatic channel selection utilizing a closed-channel model is disclosed. A measurement engine records maximum user throughput on a per station basis during normal traffic operation. The measurement engine further records throughput metrics based on test traffic sent to all associated stations during idle operation. A policy logic engine utilizes the measurements to determine an optimal transmission channel for transmission and receipt of data.