Dynamic Wi-Fi to CBRS Load Balancing for Saturated Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
High user density in public venues leads to performance degradation in Wi-Fi networks due to limited channels, which is particularly problematic for critical assets like wireless cameras and security staff.
Innovation Solution
Implement a process to dynamically distribute client devices between Wi-Fi and Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) by analyzing radio and channel conditions, client experience, and available spectrum, using a light license scheme and Spectrum Access Service (SAS) to allocate CBRS spectrum on-demand.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If Wi-Fi networks are used in high-density public venues, then wireless connectivity is provided to users, but network performance degrades due to channel saturation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the wireless network infrastructure into two distinct systems: Wi-Fi access points for general connectivity and CBRS base stations for capacity augmentation. This segmentation allows the network to distribute users across multiple access technologies, preventing any single system from becoming saturated while maintaining overall network reliability in high-density environments
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal wireless access system where both Wi-Fi and CBRS technologies serve the same function of providing wireless connectivity. The system can dynamically route users to either Wi-Fi or CBRS based on current network conditions, making the overall system multi-functional in terms of access technology while maintaining a unified user experience
2Reliability
If CBRS spectrum is allocated on-demand to mitigate Wi-Fi saturation, then user experience is improved, but system complexity increases due to license management and spectrum allocation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a Spectrum Access Service (SAS) as an intermediary system that manages CBRS spectrum allocation. The SAS acts as a mediator between Wi-Fi access points and CBRS base stations, handling license acquisition, spectrum assignment, and coordination. This intermediary layer abstracts the complexity of spectrum management from the access network elements while enabling dynamic CBRS deployment to improve user experience
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system continuously monitors Wi-Fi network conditions (such as channel utilization and user density) and dynamically triggers CBRS spectrum allocation when saturation is detected. The SAS receives feedback about network state, adjusts spectrum allocation accordingly, and coordinates with access points to load balance users between Wi-Fi and CBRS, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to changing conditions
Data Source
AI summary
Load balancing for saturated wireless may be provided. A computing device may determine that an Access Point (AP) has reached a saturation point. A first Service Device (SD) having a first SD coverage area that overlaps an AP coverage area associated with the AP may be identified. Then a license to operate within a frequency spectrum segment for the first SD coverage area may be obtained. A plurality of user devices may be moved from the AP to the first SD. The first SD may then service the plurality of user devices using at least a portion of the frequency spectrum segment.