Centralized Wireless Network Control for Load Balancing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless network technologies lack efficient mechanisms for centralized control of mobile station associations and data routing in wireless mesh networks, leading to uneven load distribution among access points and suboptimal data transmission rates.
Innovation Solution
A centralized system and method for controlling mobile station associations and data routing in wireless multi-hop networks, utilizing a mesh router architecture with virtual interfaces for control and data traffic, and an optimization algorithm that calculates optimal user associations, paths, and data rates based on network topology and contention graphs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mobile stations choose access points based on signal strength, then connection reliability is improved, but load distribution among access points becomes uneven
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the selection parameter from signal strength to a composite metric that includes both signal strength and load information. The access point selection metric is defined as a function of signal strength and load, allowing the system to balance connection reliability with load distribution by adjusting the weights of these parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where access points broadcast their load status and signal strength information to mobile stations. This feedback allows mobile stations to make informed decisions about which access point to associate with, considering both connection quality and network load conditions.
2Productivity
If centralized control is implemented for association and routing, then load distribution and rate optimization are improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a centralized controller as an intermediary component that manages association and routing decisions. This controller collects network state information, performs optimization calculations, and sends control commands to access points and mobile stations, thereby centralizing complexity in a dedicated component rather than distributing it throughout the entire network.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments functionality into distinct components: a centralized controller for decision-making, access points for local data transmission, and mobile stations for client operations. This segmentation allows each component to have well-defined responsibilities, making the overall system more manageable despite the increased complexity.
3Area of stationary object
If more access points are deployed to improve coverage, then network coverage is improved, but deployment cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables access points to serve multiple functions: they not only provide wireless connectivity but also act as relay nodes for extending network coverage and routing data through the network. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated infrastructure components, thereby reducing deployment costs while maintaining extensive coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a hierarchical network structure where access points can be nested within mesh networks, with some access points serving as relay nodes for other access points. This nesting allows the network to extend coverage by utilizing existing access points as intermediate nodes, reducing the need for fully independent access point deployments.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a method and system for centralized controlled association of a mobile station (STA) to a wireless access point (AP) in a wireless network (10) with a plurality of wireless access points (11, 12). The method comprises the step of gathering information by a central control entity (30) about existing connectivity and/or interference of mobile stations (STAs) in the wireless network. Based on said gathered information it is deciding by said central control entity which mobile station (STA) is associate to which wireless access point (AP). The central entity further calculates the connectivity and/or interference of the associated mobile stations (STA) within the wireless network and reconfigures the association of mobile stations within the wireless network.