Home Network Controller Client Steering via Usage Profiles
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current network management systems lack the ability to create detailed profiles for each client device based on usage, leading to issues such as lag and restricted access when multiple clients use high data-intensive applications or connect to the same access point, and are unable to steer clients to optimal bandwidth channels based on usage patterns or user preferences.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a self-learning algorithm within a Home Network Controller (HNC) to create usage history profiles for each client device, allowing for intelligent configuration of access points and steering of clients to optimal access points based on their usage patterns and bandwidth requirements, using a wireless gateway and Home Network Extender protocol server.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If clients are assigned to access points using conventional profile-based methods, then network management is simplified, but clients experience lag and restricted access when multiple clients use high data-intensive applications on the same access point
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically changes the assignment parameter from static profile-based allocation to real-time usage-based allocation. The Home Network Controller monitors data usage patterns, application types, and network conditions, then reassigns clients to different access points based on current throughput capacity and usage patterns, resolving the contradiction between simple management and reliable performance
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service by having the Home Network Controller automatically monitor usage patterns, create usage history profiles, and perform client steering without manual intervention. This maintains simplicity while improving reliability through automated, intelligent decision-making based on real-time network conditions
2Productivity
If clients are steered from gateway to extender using conventional methods, then load balancing is achieved, but lag time issues occur when all clients are operating under optimal data usage
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by proactively monitoring usage patterns and predicting when steering will be needed, rather than reacting after lag occurs. The Home Network Controller creates usage history profiles and anticipates bandwidth requirements, enabling preemptive client steering that avoids lag time entirely
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback loops where the Home Network Controller monitors real-time usage data, throughput capacity, and network conditions, then adjusts client assignments dynamically. This feedback mechanism ensures optimal data throughput while minimizing steering lag by making timely, data-driven decisions
3Reliability
If access points restrict certain applications for specific time periods, then network security is improved, but clients must manually switch networks to access restricted applications
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service by automatically detecting when a client needs to access restricted applications and autonomously performing the steering operation. The Home Network Controller monitors application usage patterns, identifies when restricted apps are needed, and automatically switches clients to appropriate networks without manual user intervention, maintaining security while improving convenience
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback mechanisms to monitor client application usage in real-time, detect when restricted applications are attempted, and automatically adjust network assignments. This closed-loop approach maintains security restrictions while eliminating manual switching requirements through automated, context-aware decision-making
4Device complexity
If general profiles are assigned to all clients by access points, then configuration is simplified, but clients cannot ensure seamless data streaming when switching between networks
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the profile parameter from static general profiles to dynamic usage-specific profiles. The Home Network Controller creates and maintains separate usage history profiles for each client based on their specific applications, devices, and usage patterns, enabling seamless data streaming by anticipating needs and pre-positioning clients on appropriate networks
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements local quality by creating customized profiles for each individual client rather than applying uniform general profiles. Each client receives a tailored usage history profile that reflects their specific needs, devices, and usage patterns, enabling personalized, seamless data streaming while maintaining simplified overall configuration through automated profile generation
Data Source
AI summary
A content streaming apparatus, method, and computer readable media steer a client device to from one wireless access point to another based on usage history of the client device. A controller is configured to establish a wireless streaming session between one or more access points and one or more client devices. An initial profile category is assigned by one or more access point to the client device based on one or more profile categories. A self-learning algorithm is executed to collect usage data of the client device and store the usage to create a usage history profile for the client device. The controller provides instruction to steer the client device to one of the access points based on the usage history profile of the client. Preferably, the content streaming apparatus is a home network controller. From the software/client end a steering app is downloadable to the client device for executing software associated with the self-learning algorithm.