Wi-Fi Access Point Resynchronization for Accurate Device Locationing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Maintaining synchronization among a large number of access points in a network to ensure accurate locationing and analytics of Wi-Fi devices is challenging due to new access points being added or rebooted, leading to out-of-sync STA packets and incorrect locationing data.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method where access points synchronize with predefined time intervals to send STA reports, with resynchronization events when new access points join the network, using SSI values for location determination and real-time mapping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If access points send STA reports periodically with predefined time intervals, then locationing accuracy is improved, but synchronization difficulty increases when new access points are added or existing ones reboot
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where access points monitor the presence and status of other access points in the network. When a new access point joins or an existing one reboots, the system detects this change and automatically triggers a resynchronization event, adjusting the reporting intervals of affected access points to maintain consistent timing across the network.
Solution Approach 2:
The synchronization mechanism is made dynamic by allowing access points to adjust their STA report intervals based on network conditions. When synchronization events occur, access points dynamically modify their reporting schedules to align with the updated timing, enabling the system to adapt to changes in network composition while maintaining locationing accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If access points resynchronize when new access points join, then locationing accuracy is maintained, but network performance degradation occurs due to increased synchronization overhead
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-planning and pre-coordinating resynchronization events before they are fully executed. When a new access point joins or an existing one reboots, the system prepares the resynchronization schedule in advance, notifying affected access points of upcoming timing changes so they can adjust their buffers and queues accordingly, minimizing disruption to ongoing operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements cushioning mechanisms by maintaining buffer intervals and grace periods around synchronization events. These buffers allow access points to gracefully transition between synchronization states without causing abrupt disruptions to data flow or locationing operations, absorbing the performance impact of resynchronization over an extended period rather than concentrating it in a single moment.
3Manufacturing precision
If access points maintain strict synchronization intervals, then STA packet timing accuracy is improved, but adaptability to network changes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The synchronization system is designed to be dynamic rather than static. Access points maintain strict timing intervals during normal operation to ensure packet timing accuracy, but the system automatically detects network changes (new access points joining or existing ones rebooting) and triggers resynchronization events that adjust the intervals accordingly, allowing the system to adapt to changing network conditions while preserving timing precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service by enabling access points to autonomously detect synchronization status and initiate resynchronization when needed. Each access point monitors the network for changes and can independently adjust its reporting intervals and timing, allowing the network to adapt to changes without requiring centralized control or manual intervention, thus maintaining both precision and adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
A plurality of access points synch with a first synch event to establish a first predefined time interval for periodically sending STA reports. Responsive to detecting the new access point, each of the plurality of access points is resynched by sending a second sync event to establish a second predefined time interval for periodically sending STA reports. A real-time mapping can be displayed of the station using a first location at a first instance, as initially synched, and a second location at the second instance, as resynched.