Super Channel Layer Aggregation for Hybrid Network Management

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional hybrid wired/wireless networks face challenges in providing seamless communication and efficient resource allocation due to the mobility of access devices, limited channel availability, and interference issues, especially in multi-band multi-protocol environments, where equipment compatibility and interference from other devices in the 2.4 GHz spectrum hinder effective data transfer and network management.

Innovation Solution

A method and system that create a super channel in a multi-band multi-protocol hybrid wired/wireless network by aggregating messages from various communication bands and protocols into a single multi-protocol layer, allowing for the identification of an optimal communication path and enabling seamless communication across different channels and bands, while integrating network management processes for efficient bandwidth and QoS management.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If separate protocol stacks are used for each communication band and protocol, then protocol-specific communication can be maintained, but device complexity and hardware/software requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotocol compatibilityVSAvoidprotocol stack complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple separate protocol stacks into a single unified protocol stack that handles multiple communication bands (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) and protocols (802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11a) simultaneously. This consolidation eliminates redundant hardware and software components while maintaining the ability to communicate across different protocol specifications through a single integrated layer.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The unified protocol stack is designed with universal functionality to handle multiple communication standards within a single structure. The super channel layer aggregates messages from different physical layers and protocols, enabling the system to perform multiple communication functions through one protocol stack rather than requiring separate dedicated stacks for each protocol.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple separate protocol stacks are implemented, then each protocol can operate independently, but channel utilization and network management efficiency decrease

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprotocol independenceVSAvoidchannel utilization
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines channel management functions across multiple protocols into a single unified channel management mechanism. The super channel layer aggregates control information and management frames from different physical layers, enabling coordinated channel utilization across 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands regardless of the underlying protocol (802.11b, 802.11g, or 802.11a).

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The super channel layer acts as an intermediary between the physical layers and the network management functions. It aggregates messages from different protocols and bands, translating and coordinating them through a unified management interface that optimizes channel utilization across the entire hybrid network without requiring protocol-specific management separate from the physical layer.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Device complexity

If conventional channel management is used in multi-band networks, then simplicity is maintained, but interference from other devices and mobility issues are not adequately addressed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvechannel management simplicityVSAvoidcommunication stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic channel management that adapts to changing network conditions in real-time. The unified protocol stack continuously monitors traffic patterns, interference levels, and device mobility, dynamically adjusting channel assignments and management frame transmissions across both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands to maintain optimal communication stability despite mobility and interference challenges.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms at the super channel layer that aggregate information from all physical layers and protocols. This feedback loop enables the network management functions to detect interference conditions and mobility events across the entire multi-band network, adjusting channel allocation and management strategies based on real-time conditions from all protocols simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS9014196B2System and method for providing a super channel in a multi-band multi-protocol hybrid wired/wireless network
Publication Date: 2015.04.21 AVAGO TECHNOLOGIES INTERNATIONAL SALES PTE LTD
  • US9014196B2 patent drawing
  • US9014196B2 patent drawing
  • US9014196B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Messages from a physical layer of each communication band and communication channel associated with each protocol utilized in a multi-band, multi-protocol network may be aggregated into a single multi-protocol layer called, for example, a super channel layer. An optimal communication path may be identified from among the communication bands and/or communication channels based on information borne by the single multi-protocol layer. A communication session may be established via optimal communication path. The communication path may include different channels within a single communication bands, and/or channels selected from different communication bands. In this regard, channels from the same or different communication bands may be combined to provide an optimal communication path. The single multi-protocol layer may be characterized as a sublayer located within the data link layer. Accordingly, the single multi-protocol layer may be located above a MAC layer, both of which are part of the data link layer.