SON Server FILS Link Setup Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
The initial link setup time in Wi-Fi networks, which can take several seconds, causes interruptions in voice or video calls, especially for users on the move, and is exacerbated by scanning delays in scenarios like 'Tokyo Central Station' where many users enter and exit a coverage area quickly, leading to inefficiencies in accessing available Wi-Fi connections.
Innovation Solution
A Wi-Fi Self-Organizing Network (SON) system that uses a cloud/network-based server to update access point RF configurations based on changes in user traffic and network topologies, facilitating the Fast Initial Link Setup (FILS) protocol by reducing scanning time through enhanced mechanisms like Filter List and Comprehensive Probe Response, and dynamically managing radio resources to optimize link setup.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If traditional link setup process is used, then authentication and association can be completed, but link setup time is too long (several seconds) causing interruptions in voice or video calls
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing authentication and association procedures before the actual data transmission begins. The Fast Initial Link Setup (FILS) protocol establishes the link in advance during the initial connection phase, so that when voice or video calls start, the link is already established and ready for immediate use, eliminating interruptions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the link setup process into distinct phases: initial link setup (authentication and association) separated from subsequent data transmission. By completing the authentication and association phases during the initial connection before data transfer begins, the system reduces the perceived setup time for users while maintaining reliable call continuity.
2Loss of information
If comprehensive scanning is performed to discover all access points, then complete network visibility is achieved, but scanning time increases significantly especially when many users enter and exit coverage area quickly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential network information needed for connection from the complete scanning process. Instead of performing comprehensive scans to discover all access points, the system extracts and uses only the necessary authentication and association data from available signals, reducing scanning time while maintaining sufficient network visibility for seamless connectivity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple access points are scanned and probed individually, then all available connections are identified, but the number of probe responses increases causing Wi-Fi pollution and delays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple individual probe responses into a single comprehensive probe response that contains information from multiple access points. This consolidation reduces the number of separate probe responses transmitted over the air, decreasing Wi-Fi pollution and scanning delays while still providing clients with multiple connection options for seamless roaming and connectivity.
Data Source
AI summary
Ameliorating initial link setup in manage networks, self-organizing networks (SONs), systems, etc. of the type having capabilities sufficient to facilitate operations according to a common methodology is contemplated. The contemplated processes and systems may include ameliorating initial link setup when operating pursuant to the Fast Initial Link Setup (FILS) protocol defined in the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) specification 802.11ai with use of a self-organizing network (SON) server to facilitate access point selection.