Distributed Wi-Fi Mesh Network Bandwidth Sharing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Wi-Fi networks have limited range and bandwidth, restricting the use of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services to close proximity, and attempts to expand coverage have been costly and unsuccessful due to high infrastructure costs and competition with private networks.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that enables owners of residential Wi-Fi hotspots to share their excess bandwidth with others, forming a distributed wireless network, where users can access each other's connections through a server-managed software that registers and authorizes access, allowing free or fee-based roaming and VoIP services.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If Wi-Fi network range is extended using traditional infrastructure methods, then coverage area increases, but infrastructure cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple independent Wi-Fi access points into a unified mesh network where each access point serves dual purposes: as an endpoint for local connectivity and as a relay node for extending network coverage. This merging of functions allows coverage expansion without requiring additional dedicated infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
Existing Wi-Fi access points are utilized to extend network coverage by enabling them to function as relay nodes. The system leverages already-deployed infrastructure to serve the additional function of coverage extension, eliminating the need for new infrastructure investment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If Wi-Fi access points are linked into a unified network, then network coverage and roaming capability improve, but network complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a centralized controller that acts as an intermediary to manage the mesh network. This controller handles complex tasks such as route optimization, node coordination, and seamless handoff management, thereby simplifying the overall system operation and enabling advanced features without burdening individual access points.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional single-hop Wi-Fi connectivity to multi-hop mesh networking, adding a temporal and spatial dimension to data transmission. Data can traverse multiple nodes sequentially, creating new pathways and enabling coverage in previously unreachable areas while maintaining connection continuity.
3Ease of operation
If excess bandwidth is shared among users, then internet access affordability improves, but bandwidth management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a bandwidth sharing system with centralized monitoring that tracks usage patterns, node performance, and network load in real-time. This feedback mechanism enables dynamic bandwidth allocation and optimization, ensuring fair distribution while maintaining service quality, thereby managing complexity through automated monitoring rather than manual intervention.
Data Source
AI summary
A plurality of users are associated with a system having at least one information processor coupled to a communication network. Multiple wireless access points to the communication network are provided; and multiple of the users associated with the system are provided access to the communication network via the access points.