Heterogeneous Ad Hoc Network Optimization for Bandwidth Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile devices often experience fast local wireless connections but slow connections to the broader network, necessitating a method to optimize the selection of lender bandwidth in ad hoc networks for efficient data transfer.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that identify available lenders and networks, calculate optimization values for peer-to-peer and multiplexed networks, and select the optimum network to minimize cost, time, or maximize throughput by forming heterogeneous networks composed of both peer-to-peer and multiplexed architectures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a wireless device uses local wireless connections (e.g., IEEE 802.11a/b/g) for data transfer, then data transfer rate is improved (3 to 54 Mbps), but transmission range deteriorates (limited to 30 to 300 ft)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple wireless connections with different characteristics (fast short-range connections and slow long-range connections) into a unified network path. By merging these disparate connections, the system achieves both high data transfer rates and extended transmission range, resolving the contradiction between speed and range.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary devices (other wireless devices acting as relays or gateways) that bridge the gap between fast local connections and slow wide-area connections. These intermediaries enable data to traverse through multiple hops, effectively extending transmission range while maintaining high transfer rates through optimal path selection.
2Length of moving object
If a wireless device uses wide-area wireless protocols (e.g., EV-DO, CDMA) for network connection, then transmission range is improved (miles), but data transfer rate deteriorates (10 kbps to 1 Mbps)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network path into multiple sections: fast local wireless segments for high-speed data transfer and wide-area wireless segments for extended range. By dividing the end-to-end connection into these functional segments, each operating at its optimal performance level, the system achieves both long transmission range and high data transfer rates.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple network paths with different performance characteristics into a single optimized communication route. By combining fast local connections and wide-area connections in a heterogeneous network, the system leverages the strengths of each protocol type to overcome their individual limitations.
3Productivity
If a borrower selects bandwidth lenders in an ad hoc network, then network utilization is improved, but selection complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service mechanisms where wireless devices automatically discover available bandwidth lenders, evaluate their suitability, and select optimal connections without manual intervention. The system autonomously performs network discovery, lender identification, and selection based on current network conditions and borrower needs, simplifying the process while maximizing network utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where devices continuously monitor network conditions, lender availability, and transfer performance. This feedback informs dynamic selection and reselection of bandwidth lenders, enabling the system to adapt to changing conditions and maintain optimal network utilization without complex manual configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
Method and system for optimizing selection of a network. The method includes identifying available lenders and existing networks within a vicinity of a borrower, selecting an optimization technique for completing a task of the borrower, calculating, for a plurality of network options, a value for completing the borrower's task according to the optimization technique, and selecting an optimum network option to complete the borrower's task. The plurality of network options includes forming a heterogeneous network composed of both a peer-to-peer network and a multiplexed network.