Mesh Network Channel Segmentation for Throughput
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mesh networks, such as those based on IEEE 802.11s operating over 802.11n MAC, face throughput degradation due to all devices operating in the same channel, leading to media congestion and reduced performance.
Innovation Solution
The method involves determining dedicated channels for each communication apparatus based on channel utilization, allowing simultaneous communication on these channels to avoid collisions and increase throughput by using secondary channels in conjunction with dedicated channels for data and signaling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If all devices operate in the same channel, then network simplicity is maintained, but throughput degradation occurs due to media congestion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the single shared communication channel into multiple dedicated channels assigned to different mesh peerings. Each peerings (communication pair) operates on its own dedicated channel, which divides the congested media into separate communication lanes. This segmentation eliminates collisions between different peerings and enables simultaneous transmissions, directly resolving the throughput degradation caused by media congestion while maintaining manageable complexity through automated channel assignment.
2Productivity
If dedicated channels are assigned to each apparatus, then simultaneous transmissions are enabled, but channel assignment complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through automated channel assignment mechanisms where mesh devices autonomously select and assign dedicated channels to peerings without requiring manual configuration. The system automatically manages channel allocation, monitoring, and adjustment based on network conditions, thereby enabling simultaneous transmissions across multiple dedicated channels while keeping the operational complexity low for end users.
3Productivity
If secondary channels are used in conjunction with dedicated channels, then data and signaling can be transmitted simultaneously, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling mesh devices to operate on multiple channels simultaneously - a dedicated channel for primary communication and secondary channels for additional data transmission and signaling. This multi-channel capability allows the same device to handle different types of traffic (data, signaling, control) on different channels, increasing transmission efficiency and throughput while the system manages the complexity of multi-channel operations through automated protocols.
Data Source
AI summary
In a non-limiting and exemplary embodiment, a method is provided for arranging multi-channel wireless communications, comprising: determining a first dedicated channel for a first apparatus from a set of channels, receiving an indication of a second dedicated channel for a second apparatus, and communicating with the second apparatus on the first dedicated channel and on the second dedicated channel, wherein a first communications event on the first dedicated channel and a second communication event at the second dedicated channel are carried out at least partially simultaneously.