Cloud Platform Optimizing Heterogeneous Wireless Network Spectrum
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Solution Overview
Problem
Heterogeneous wireless networks face challenges in management, control, monitoring, security, and optimization due to scarce spectrum allocation, fragmented connectivity, and the lack of efficient handoff mechanisms between different network types, particularly with the increasing demand for mobile data and the integration of Wi-Fi access points into various devices.
Innovation Solution
A cloud-based management platform that provides configuration, monitoring, analytics, security, optimization, and radio resource management for heterogeneous wireless devices, utilizing an open broadband interface and software-defined networking modules to dynamically manage and optimize Wi-Fi and cellular networks, enabling seamless handovers and data offloading between networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If Wi-Fi access points are deployed in an ad-hoc manner by end-users, enterprises, and hot-spot operators, then the coverage area is expanded, but the spectrum utilization becomes inefficient and interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the centralized controller receives information about network conditions, interference levels, and spectrum usage from distributed access points. Based on this feedback, the controller dynamically adjusts channel assignments and power levels to optimize spectrum utilization while maintaining expanded coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes operational parameters such as channel frequency, transmit power, and modulation schemes based on real-time network conditions. This allows the network to adapt to varying traffic loads and interference patterns, improving overall spectrum efficiency across the expanded coverage area.
2Adaptability or versatility
If carrier sense multiple access is used for channel sharing in unlicensed bands, then device compatibility is maintained, but the mechanism is not designed for current density of wireless devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent maintains compatibility with standard carrier sense multiple access protocols while adding enhanced functionality through centralized coordination. The system can operate in both autonomous mode (using standard CSMA/CA) and coordinated mode (with centralized control), providing universal compatibility across different device types and deployment scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
A centralized controller acts as an intermediary between wireless devices and the network infrastructure. This mediator coordinates channel access, manages interference, and optimizes resource allocation, enabling the network to handle higher device densities while maintaining compatibility with standard access protocols.
3Ease of operation
If stand-alone Wi-Fi access points are configured and managed by end users, then deployment flexibility is improved, but management complexity and security vulnerabilities increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables end-users to deploy access points with minimal configuration through automated discovery and setup processes. The centralized controller automatically configures network parameters, manages authentication, and handles updates, allowing users to benefit from simplified deployment while maintaining system-wide coordination and security.
4Reliability
If embedded and hotspot access points are pre-configured, then security is improved, but configuration flexibility and adaptability to local conditions are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Access points are pre-configured with security policies, authentication mechanisms, and baseline operational parameters before deployment. This preliminary configuration ensures security requirements are met from the outset, while the centralized controller subsequently adapts these configurations to local network conditions and requirements.
5Area of stationary object
If different wireless devices use different network types, then service coverage is improved, but handoff mechanisms between networks are inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple wireless network types (Wi-Fi, cellular, fixed wireless) into a unified heterogeneous network managed by a centralized controller. This integration allows for coordinated resource allocation and seamless handoffs between different network types, reducing handoff time while maintaining expanded service coverage across diverse environments.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of managing heterogeneous wireless devices in three or more different types of networks is disclosed. Each type of network uses a different type of radio access technology. The method includes receiving measurement data from a plurality of heterogeneous wireless devices via a control interface, wherein a heterogeneous wireless device provides connections to client devices via one or more of the three or more radio access technologies. The method includes searching, using a processor, for optimized adjustments to one or more parameters associated with one or more of the plurality of heterogeneous wireless devices based at least in part on a set of network optimization goals and the measurement data received from the plurality of heterogeneous wireless devices. The method includes transmitting at least some of the optimized adjustments of the one or more parameters to the one or more of the plurality of heterogeneous wireless devices.