LiFi Access Point Identification for Geospatial AFC
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated frequency coordination (AFC) in network access points faces challenges in determining the geospatial location of access points, especially when they are positioned high up, as traditional methods like signal strength measurement are ineffective due to weak signals and lack of identifying features.
Innovation Solution
The use of LiFi technology, where a network controller assigns a unique light sequence to access points, which are detected by user devices to determine an identifier, and this information, along with the device's geospatial coordinates, is reported to an AFC server to perform AFC, ensuring minimal interference with other access points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If signal strength measurement is used to identify access points, then the AFC process can be initiated, but the measurement is ineffective when the access point is positioned high up due to weak signals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces light sequences as an intermediary identification mechanism between the access point and the user device. Instead of relying on weak radio signals for identification, the access point emits visible light sequences that serve as a reliable identifier, while the radio signal strength is used separately for geospatial estimation. This mediator approach decouples the identification function from the signal strength measurement, solving the reliability problem.
2Measurement precision
If user device geospatial coordinates are used to approximate access point location, then AFC can be performed, but the accuracy is reduced due to the unknown vertical distance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by using only the horizontal components (latitude and longitude) of the user device's geospatial coordinates for AFC purposes, while deliberately ignoring the vertical component (altitude). This partial use of available data allows the system to proceed with AFC using the information that is sufficiently accurate, without requiring the complete and more difficult-to-obtain three-dimensional location data.
3Extent of automation
If access points lack identifying features, then the AFC process cannot be initiated, but adding physical identifiers increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the light-emitting diode serve multiple functions: it provides illumination for users and simultaneously encodes the access point's unique identifier in light sequences. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate physical identifiers like labels or barcodes, maintaining device simplicity while enabling automated identification and AFC initiation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables effective AFC for access points without known geospatial locations by using LiFi to identify access points and communicate transmission characteristics, such as channel usage and frequencies, to avoid interference.
Implementation Method 1
a light emitting diode associated with an access point emits a light sequence that identifies the access point
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes detecting, by a mobile device, a light sequence emitted from a light emitting diode associated with an access point and determining, by the mobile device, an identifier for the access point based on the light sequence. The method also includes reporting, by the mobile device, a geospatial location of the mobile device and the identifier for the access point to an automated frequency coordination (AFC) server to perform AFC for the access point.