WLAN Channel Scanning Segmentation for Data Loss Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional channel scanning methods in wireless local area networks (WLANs) cause significant delays and data loss due to the need to interrupt communication operations while scanning multiple channels, which is particularly problematic for dual-band stations that require scanning 38 channels, resulting in 5320 ms of communication disruption.
Innovation Solution
The method separates the channel scanning procedure into multiple operations and allows for returning to the original channel during a set return period to resume communication and transmit/receive blocked packets, utilizing a scanning unit, decision unit, and transceiver unit to manage the scanning process, including setting parameters like the return period, stay period, and start-up channel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a station scans all channels to determine available channels for communication, then the station can identify suitable channels for association, but communication operations are interrupted causing significant data loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the channel scanning process into multiple separate scanning operations rather than requiring a single continuous scan of all channels. The station can perform scanning in intervals, returning to the original channel between scans to transmit and receive blocked packets, thereby reducing data loss while still identifying suitable channels for association.
2Measurement precision
If a station scans all 38 channels to ensure complete channel knowledge, then comprehensive channel information is obtained, but communication disruption time increases to 5320 ms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic scanning where the station performs channel scanning in multiple intervals rather than continuously. Between scanning operations, the station returns to the original channel to maintain communication. This periodic approach reduces the total communication disruption time from 5320 ms to a shorter duration while still gathering necessary channel information.
3Loss of information
If the station performs continuous scanning of all channels, then complete channel information is gathered, but packet transmission and reception are blocked throughout the scanning period
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the scanning process into multiple segments separated by return periods to the original channel. During these return periods, the station can transmit and receive blocked packets, maintaining data transmission efficiency. This segmented approach ensures both complete channel information is gathered and productivity is maintained.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent ensures continuity of useful action by allowing the station to return to the original channel between scanning operations to transmit and receive packets. This maintains productive communication activities throughout the scanning process rather than having continuous interruptions, thereby preserving data transmission efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
Instead of scanning all the channels at once, the present method separates a channel scanning procedure into multiple channel scanning operations. The method reduces a data loss rate during the operation by returning to the operating channel an associated access point operates on in accordance with a return period for transceiving blocked packets.