Multi-Network Interference Advisor for Wireless Industrial Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless computer networks in industrial environments face interference issues due to overlapping operations on the same ISM frequency band, particularly between WirelessHART and WLAN networks, which are not adequately addressed by historical interference data alone, especially during dynamic changes in network topology or structure.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing a common multi-network interference advisor (CMIA) that collects and compares runtime and historical channel utilization data to identify interference patterns, advising network managers on preventive actions such as avoiding time-slot and frequency synchronization, and managing network events to mitigate inter-network interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If WirelessHART and WLAN networks operate on the same ISM frequency band in close vicinity, then network coverage and utility are improved, but inter-network interference occurs causing performance degradation
Solution Approach 1:
A common multi-network interference observer is introduced as an intermediary component that monitors channel utilization of both WirelessHART and WLAN networks. This observer collects runtime and historical data, identifies interference patterns, and provides advice to network managers, thereby mediating the interference relationship between the two networks and improving coexistence while maintaining coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback loops where the interference observer monitors channel utilization, detects interference patterns, and feeds this information back to network managers. This feedback mechanism enables dynamic adjustment of network parameters to mitigate interference while maintaining network coverage and performance
2Object-affected harmful factors
If pseudo-random channel hopping is used in WirelessHART network, then interference elimination is improved to a certain extent, but packet collision still occurs when packets are transmitted at the same time and frequency
Solution Approach 1:
The interference observer analyzes historical channel utilization data and transmission profiles to predict potential packet collisions before they occur. By identifying interference patterns in advance, the system can provide preemptive advice to network managers to adjust timing and frequency allocations, preventing packet collisions before they happen
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts the channel hopping strategy by continuously monitoring runtime channel utilization and adjusting recommendations based on current network conditions. This dynamic approach allows the system to optimize packet transmission timing and frequency allocation in real-time, reducing collisions while maintaining interference elimination benefits
3Ease of manufacture
If pre-operation interference avoidance techniques are used considering only historical interference information, then planning phase inputs are improved, but dynamic changes during operation phase cannot be adequately addressed
Solution Approach 1:
The common multi-network interference observer serves multiple functions: it collects historical interference data for planning phase inputs, monitors runtime channel utilization during operation, identifies interference patterns, and provides adaptive recommendations. This multi-functional system addresses both planning and operational phase requirements, enabling the network to handle dynamic changes effectively
4Adaptability or versatility
If network topology changes or plant physical structure changes occur during operation, then network adaptability is improved, but inter-network interference cannot be limited over the life cycle period
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors runtime channel utilization and adapts its interference pattern identification to changing network conditions. When network topology or plant physical structure changes occur, the observer detects new interference patterns and provides updated recommendations, maintaining interference limitation throughout the network's life cycle while preserving adaptability
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides a system and method for advising wireless computer networks on inter-network interferences during their life time. The method of the present invention initially observes initial channel utilization profiles along with corresponding time-slots of dynamic network elements and network characteristics of a first network and stores as historical channel utilization profiles. The initial transmission profiles an interfering second network are also recorded. The threshold transmission profiles are then recorded as historical transmission profiles. The aggregator determines interference patterns, by comparing historical channel utilization profiles with runtime threshold transmission profiles and advises and pre-warns appropriate network actions to a network manager of the first network on the interference prone zones. The system of the present invention includes a first network with a common multi-network interference observer, to advise on inter-network interferences.