Active Superframe Interleaving for Network Coexistence
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
When multiple networks operate in close proximity, they often face interference due to sharing the same operating channel, especially when the number of networks exceeds the available predefined channels, leading to a lack of available channels for new networks to use without causing mutual interference.
Innovation Solution
Implementing active superframe interleaving between networks, where one network's hub can request and coordinate with another to adjust their active superframe lengths and inactive durations, allowing them to share the same channel without interference by interleaving their active transmission periods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multiple networks operate on the same predefined channel set, then channel availability for new networks is limited, but using different channels for each network causes interference when the number of networks exceeds available channels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the channel usage in time by dividing operation into active superframes and inactive superframes. Multiple networks share the same channel by transmitting in different time segments (their respective active superframes), thereby avoiding simultaneous transmission and interference while allowing more networks to coexist on limited channels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic active and inactive superframes for each network. By rhythmically alternating between active transmission periods and inactive listening periods, networks create predictable time patterns that allow other networks to transmit during their inactive periods, reducing interference while maximizing channel utilization.
2Ease of operation
If networks use the same predefined channel, then channel hunting is simplified, but channel capacity is insufficient when too many networks operate simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the superframe structure dynamic and adjustable. Networks can modify their active superframe lengths and inactive durations based on traffic conditions and coexistence requirements, allowing flexible adaptation to changing network densities while maintaining simple channel selection through predefined channels.
3Speed
If a hub maintains continuous active superframes, then network responsiveness is maximized, but other networks cannot share the channel without causing interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces periodic inactive superframes into the continuous operation cycle. During inactive superframes, hubs stop transmitting and listen for other networks, creating time windows for channel sharing while maintaining rapid responsiveness during active superframes. This periodic structure enables both high-speed operation and multi-network coexistence.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the invention provide coexistence among independent networks through active superframe interleaving. Network hubs and devices exchange signals over a selected channel only during active superframes of their network. Network hubs broadcast coexistence information during their active superframes. A hub of network B desiring to use the selected channel first attempts to fit its active superframes within network A's inactive superframes, if available. If network A is not providing inactive superframes, then the network B hub determines whether network A is willing to coexist using active superframe interleaving on the channel. If so, the network B hub sends an interleave request message to the network A hub, which may accept the message and send back an interleave response message. The network A hub then offers new inactive superframes, and the network B hub adapts the transmissions and receptions of network B to fit within these inactive superframes.