Variable Scan Interval Using Context for Wireless Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional Information Handling Systems (IHSs) face increased system loads due to frequent wireless scanning operations, especially with the inclusion of multiple wireless interfaces, leading to unnecessary scanning and power consumption.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a variable scan interval system that adjusts scanning frequencies based on context information such as motion, application usage, posture, user distance, and environmental conditions, allowing for exponential increase or decrease in scanning intervals to optimize performance and power usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If wireless scanning operations are performed frequently to improve connectivity and network availability, then network connection reliability is improved, but system load and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic scan interval adjustment where the scanning frequency is not fixed but adapts based on device state. The system transitions between different scan interval modes (e.g., short intervals when moving, long intervals when stationary) based on context information from sensors, allowing the scanning behavior to be dynamic rather than static, thus balancing reliability and power consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the scan interval parameter based on detected context conditions. When motion is detected above a threshold, the system switches to a first scan interval (shorter); when motion is below the threshold, it switches to a second scan interval (longer). This parameter adjustment directly addresses the contradiction by modifying scanning frequency according to operational context
Solution Approach 3:
The system uses feedback from motion sensors and context detection to continuously monitor device state and adjust scanning behavior accordingly. The scan interval is modified based on feedback about whether the device is moving or stationary, creating a closed-loop system that optimizes power consumption while maintaining connectivity based on actual operational needs
2Stability of the object's composition
If wireless scanning operations are performed at fixed intervals to ensure consistent network discovery, then network discovery consistency is maintained, but unnecessary scanning occurs increasing system load
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs scanning operations partially - not continuously at fixed intervals, but selectively based on context. When the device is stationary, scanning is reduced or suspended; when motion is detected, scanning is activated or intensified. This partial action approach maintains necessary network discovery while avoiding excessive scanning that would increase system load
Solution Approach 2:
The scanning system transitions from static fixed-interval operation to dynamic context-aware operation. The scan interval is adjusted based on real-time context information, creating a flexible scanning regime that adapts to device state rather than following a rigid schedule, thereby reducing unnecessary scanning operations
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for variable scan interval using context are described. In some embodiments, an Information Handling System (IHS) may include a processor and a memory coupled to the processor, the memory having program instructions stored thereon that, upon execution, cause the IHS to: scan for wireless networks at a scan interval; and adjust the scan interval based upon context.