Wireless LAN Probe Request Frame Signal Strength Assessment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current access point scan methods in wireless LAN systems, such as the active scan method, result in inefficiencies due to unnecessary waiting for the maximum probe response time and wastage of wireless resources, as access points respond unconditionally to probe request frames without considering the wireless environment.
Innovation Solution
An active scan method that includes generating and transmitting probe request frames with signal strength information, allowing stations to assess uplink and downlink quality based on path loss and performing access before the maximum probe response time elapses, and access points responding only if uplink quality meets predetermined standards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If the station waits for the maximum probe response time to pass before requesting access, then it can receive responses from all access points, but it causes waste of time and delays access to suitable access points
Solution Approach 1:
The station performs preliminary assessment of access points by evaluating probe response frames as they are received, rather than waiting for all responses. The station calculates path loss for each access point and identifies suitable candidates before the maximum probe response time expires, enabling early access to appropriate access points while still maintaining the ability to receive additional responses if needed.
2Reliability
If access points respond unconditionally to all probe request frames, then all access points are available to stations, but it causes waste of wireless resources
Solution Approach 1:
Access points evaluate the local quality of each probe request by calculating the path loss between themselves and the requesting station. Only access points that meet a predetermined path loss threshold (indicating suitable signal quality) transmit probe response frames. This selective response mechanism maintains reliability for suitable access points while reducing wireless resource consumption by eliminating responses from unsuitable access points.
3Loss of time
If the station requests access immediately upon receiving a probe response frame, then access time is reduced, but it may select an access point with poor wireless environment
Solution Approach 1:
The station implements a feedback mechanism where it evaluates the probe response frame by calculating the path loss to the access point before deciding to request access. This feedback loop ensures that the station only selects access points that meet the predetermined path loss threshold, guaranteeing suitable wireless environment assessment while enabling relatively quick access compared to waiting for all responses.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a method for scanning for an access point. An active scan method comprises the steps of: generating a probe request frame including information on the signal strength of a terminal; and transmitting the probe request frame to an access point. Thus, a waste of time and radio resources can be prevented.