Mobile Access Point Repositioning for mmWave Line-of-Sight
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mmWave wireless network systems face inefficiencies due to poor connectivity caused by obstacles blocking line-of-sight between access points and wireless devices, leading to the need for multiple access points that increase system cost.
Innovation Solution
A wireless network system with a mobile access point and an actuator that moves to optimize line-of-sight conditions using a controller, which determines optimal locations based on connectivity data and obstacle mapping through machine learning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple access points are deployed to improve connectivity in obstructed environments, then connectivity reliability is improved, but system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The access point is made mobile rather than stationary, allowing it to dynamically reposition itself to maintain line-of-sight connectivity with wireless devices. This single mobile access point can adapt to changing environmental conditions and device locations, replacing the need for multiple fixed access points while maintaining connectivity reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The access point autonomously determines its own optimal position using obstacle mapping and line-of-sight analysis, then self-adjusts its location via the actuator mechanism. This self-positioning capability eliminates the need for complex centralized control systems that would be required to coordinate multiple access points, reducing system complexity while maintaining reliability.
2Productivity
If mmWave frequency is used to increase bandwidth and throughput, then data transmission speed is improved, but line-of-sight connectivity becomes more difficult to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The access point continuously monitors connectivity conditions and dynamically repositions itself to maintain optimal line-of-sight for mmWave transmission. This dynamic adaptation ensures that the high-frequency mmWave signals can maintain reliable line-of-sight connectivity despite obstacles or changing device positions, preserving both throughput and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where connectivity data from wireless devices is continuously monitored, and this information feeds back to the access point's positioning control. The access point uses this feedback to adjust its position in real-time, ensuring that mmWave line-of-sight connectivity is maintained for optimal data transmission speed.
3Device complexity
If a single access point is used to reduce system cost, then system cost is reduced, but connectivity coverage and reliability decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The single access point is equipped with mobility capabilities, allowing it to traverse different locations within the coverage area. This dynamic positioning enables one access point to provide coverage equivalent to multiple fixed access points, maintaining connectivity reliability while reducing system cost and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile access point serves multiple functions: it provides wireless access, performs obstacle mapping, determines optimal positions, and acts as a moving relay point for different devices. This multi-functionality allows a single access point to replace what would traditionally require multiple specialized access points, reducing cost while maintaining coverage and reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A wireless network system including a mobile access point, a wireless device, and an actuator. The actuator is configured to move the mobile access point to a position having an improved line-of-sight condition between the wireless device and the mobile access point.