Wireless Interference Detection via Spectrum Analytics Server
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for detecting and locating network interference in wireless communications are costly, disruptive, and inefficient, as they often require disabling network equipment and deploying teams during low utilization times, and are ineffective for intermittent interferers.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that aggregates and correlates network performance, topology, and event data to detect and localize unintentional interference using a spectrum analytics server, allowing for real-time identification and characterization of interference without disrupting network operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional interference detection methods are used (disabling transmitting equipment and deploying teams during low utilization times), then interference sources can be detected, but network service is disrupted and detection capability is reduced for intermittent interferers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a spectrum sensor as an intermediary device that can detect interference sources without requiring the network to disable its transmitting equipment. The sensor acts as a separate detection system that monitors the spectrum environment while the network continues normal operations, thus maintaining both detection capability and service continuity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical approach of disabling transmitting equipment with an electronic sensing approach using spectrum sensors. Instead of turning off transmitters to detect interference, the system uses sensors to electronically monitor and identify interference sources while transmitters remain active, enabling continuous detection without service disruption
2Measurement precision
If dedicated energy measurement probes are deployed throughout serving areas, then interference detection capability is improved, but system complexity and cost increase substantially
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes existing network elements multi-functional by enabling them to perform both their primary communication functions and interference detection functions. Base stations and other network infrastructure continue to provide service while simultaneously acting as interference sensors, eliminating the need for dedicated probe devices
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the network infrastructure to serve itself by having base stations and network elements detect interference in their own vicinity. The system uses its existing resources (base stations, spectrum sensors integrated into network infrastructure) to monitor and identify interference sources, rather than requiring separate dedicated detection devices
Data Source
AI summary
Interference is a common problem in wireless communication networks. This disclosure provides a method and system that detect and locate interference sources based on various data describing or captured from an operational network during normal mobile wireless service times.