Mesh Network Route Selection via Bandwidth Evaluation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional wireless local area networks (WLANs) lack the ability to network multiple access points together and allow users to connect to multiple access points simultaneously, resulting in unsatisfactory coverage due to overlapping mesh network interference.
Innovation Solution
A method is introduced to determine and select the optimal route from user equipment (UE) to an external network by identifying and evaluating route segments through mesh access points and alternative networks, considering bandwidth and quality of service (QoS) requirements, to route data effectively and minimize interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple mesh access points are deployed to extend network coverage, then coverage area is improved, but interference between overlapping networks increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network path into multiple independent route segments (UE to mesh AP, mesh AP to alternative network, alternative network to external network). Each segment is evaluated separately for bandwidth and QoS, allowing the system to select optimal paths while avoiding interference-prone overlapping mesh connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an alternative network (such as wired broadband or cellular network) as an intermediary path. Instead of routing traffic through multiple mesh access points which causes interference, the traffic is routed through this alternative network that acts as a mediator, eliminating the harmful interference while maintaining extended coverage capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional WLAN access is used, then device complexity is low, but the ability to network multiple access points together is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal routing system that can handle multiple types of networks (mesh WLAN, alternative wired/wireless networks) through a common framework. The route selection mechanism works across different network types, providing multi-functionality without requiring complex device-specific implementations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic route selection that adapts to current network conditions. The system continuously evaluates bandwidth and QoS parameters of different route segments and dynamically selects the optimal path, allowing the network to adapt to changing conditions without requiring complex static configuration.
3Ease of operation
If mesh network routing is simplified, then ease of operation is improved, but interference management capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service routing where the system automatically identifies route segments, evaluates their bandwidth and QoS characteristics, and selects optimal paths without user intervention. This automated self-service approach maintains ease of operation while effectively managing interference through intelligent route selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the system continuously monitors network conditions (bandwidth availability, QoS metrics) along different route segments and uses this feedback to dynamically adjust route selection. This feedback loop enables effective interference management while keeping the system easy to operate through automatic adaptation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for determining a route from a mesh network to an external network includes identifying route segments from a user equipment (UE) to the external network. The route segments comprise at least a first route segment from the UE to a first mesh access point (AP), a second route segment from the first mesh AP to the external network through a wide area cellular wireless network (WACWN), and a third route segment from the first mesh AP to the external network through an alternative network. The method further includes determining respective bandwidth of at least the first, second and third route segments and selecting the route based on the bandwidth of the first, second and third route segments, wherein the route comprises at least two of the route segments. The method also includes routing data between the UE and the external network via the selected route.