Femtocell Access Point RF Network Sweep Prediction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional radio frequency (RF) network sweeps are often performed manually and infrequently, with limited geographic coverage, and do not accurately represent actual network congestion or traffic conditions, leading to incomplete assessment of wireless communication network quality.
Innovation Solution
The use of femtocell access points (FAPs) for RF network sweeps, where the availability of FAPs is predicted based on the likelihood of mobile device access, allowing for non-intrusive and non-disruptive sweeps during peak hours and in previously unmonitored areas, by comparing network quality characteristics between wireless and wired channels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual RF network sweeps are performed at ground level, then the sweep operation can be executed with simple equipment, but the geographic coverage is limited and the assessment accuracy is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses femtocell access points as virtual measurement platforms that copy the functionality of manual sweep equipment but operate from elevated locations. The FAP performs RF network sweeps remotely, creating a virtual presence at heights that were previously only accessible through physical manual deployment, thereby expanding coverage area while maintaining measurement capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions RF network sweeps from ground-level two-dimensional coverage to three-dimensional aerial coverage by deploying femtocell access points on rooftops and elevated structures. This dimensional change allows the measurement system to access previously unreachable geographic areas and provide comprehensive coverage of urban canyons and dense environments
2Measurement precision
If RF network sweeps are performed infrequently, then the network operation is undisturbed, but the network quality assessment is outdated and incomplete
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements scheduled periodic RF network sweeps using femtocell access points, where sweeps are automatically performed at predetermined intervals or times. This periodic operation ensures up-to-date network quality assessment without requiring continuous monitoring, balancing measurement accuracy with minimal disruption to normal network operations
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where network quality measurements from femtocell sweeps are analyzed and used to trigger additional sweeps when degradation is detected. This adaptive feedback loop ensures timely assessment of network conditions while reducing unnecessary sweeps during stable periods, optimizing the balance between assessment frequency and operational disturbance
3Measurement precision
If RF network sweeps are performed during peak hours, then the network quality under congestion can be assessed, but mobile device users may experience service disruption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the femtocell access point as an intermediary measurement platform that assesses network conditions without directly interfering with user service. The FAP performs sweeps by listening to and analyzing RF signals in the environment rather than actively transmitting test signals that would cause disruption, enabling congestion assessment while minimizing impact on mobile users
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical approach of active signal transmission used in traditional sweeps with a passive signal analysis method. Instead of transmitting test signals that could interfere with user communications, the femtocell sweep system passively receives and analyzes existing RF signals to assess network quality under congestion conditions without causing service disruption
4Measurement precision
If femtocell access points are used for RF network sweeps, then comprehensive coverage and accurate assessment are achieved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the dual functionality of femtocell access points, which serve both as commercial network infrastructure devices and as RF network sweep measurement platforms. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated sweep equipment, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive measurement capabilities through the FAP's integrated RF analysis functions
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods that utilize femtocell access points (FAP) to perform radio frequency (RF) network sweeps are provided. In one embodiment, a method includes: predicting an availability of an access point (AP) to perform an RF network sweep; and determining that the access point is available to perform the RF network sweep based, at least, on a prediction that a mobile device on a white list for the access point is not likely to access the access point during a time interval associated with performing the RF network sweep. In another embodiment, a method includes: comparing a network quality characteristic for a wireless channel associated with a FAP with a network quality characteristic for a wired network communicatively coupled to the FAP. The network quality characteristics can be the same. The method can then include employing the comparison to determine to which network an impairment is attributable.