Automated RF WLAN Configuration via Sensor-Based Data Collection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The configuration of wireless networks is complex and labor-intensive, requiring manual entry of data for access point locations and antenna orientations, which is error-prone and time-consuming, especially in large deployments, and necessitates frequent site surveys to maintain optimal performance due to dynamic RF environments.
Innovation Solution
The use of sensors to automatically collect data on access point locations and properties, enabling the construction of RF models to dynamically configure and reconfigure wireless networks in real-time, reducing the need for manual entry and frequent site surveys.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If manual entry of access point location and antenna orientation data is used, then configuration accuracy can be achieved, but the configuration process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical data entry with automated sensor-based data collection. Sensors mounted on access points automatically capture location and orientation information, eliminating the need for manual surveying and data input while maintaining configuration accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The access points perform self-configuration by using their own sensors to automatically determine their location and antenna orientation. The system autonomously collects RF environment data and configures operational parameters without requiring manual intervention, reducing both time and labor requirements.
2Reliability
If frequent site surveys are conducted to maintain optimal performance in dynamic RF environments, then network performance is optimized, but operational complexity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous feedback loops where sensors mounted on access points automatically monitor RF environment changes and feed this data back to the configuration system. The system dynamically adjusts operational parameters based on real-time sensor data, maintaining optimal performance without requiring manual site surveys.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of periodic manual site surveys, the system maintains continuous automated monitoring and reconfiguration capabilities. Sensors continuously collect RF environment data, enabling the system to adapt to changes in real-time and maintain optimal network performance without interruption or manual intervention.
3Productivity
If automated sensor-based configuration is implemented, then configuration efficiency and accuracy are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multi-functional sensors that simultaneously perform multiple tasks: determining access point location, measuring antenna orientation, and monitoring RF environment conditions. This universal approach consolidates multiple measurement functions into single sensor packages, improving configuration efficiency while managing system complexity through functional integration.
Data Source
AI summary
In a wireless LAN (WLAN), methods, apparatuses and systems directed to facilitating configuration of a wireless network is provided. According to one implementation of the present invention, sensors are used to collect data associated with locations and other properties of access points of the wireless network. The collected data can then be used to assist in automatically configuring one or more aspects of the wireless network. In some implementations, the collected data can be used to dynamically re-configure the wireless network in real time. According to another implementation of the present invention, location computation mechanisms are used to collect data associated with the location of one or more wireless clients, and the data is used to dynamically adjust one or more radio frequency (RF) coverage maps in real time. The revised RF coverage maps can then be used to re-configure one or more operational parameters of the wireless network. Implementations of the present invention provide many advantages, such as automating the configuration of the wireless network in real time and facilitating network management decisions.