Beam visualization and using augmented reality for control and interaction

Overview

This technology is a system and method for using augmented reality (AR) to visualize and interact with wireless network activities. It presents a wireless augmented reality toolkit (WiART) composed of several components. Firstly, a wireless network analytic platform collects and aggregates wireless measurement data from network devices, providing users with insights into their wireless network performance. Additionally, special purpose RF sensors can be used to measure wireless network conditions.

Secondly, the system offers a user interface that leverages augmented reality to present radio analytics in a visually intuitive manner. This AR component overlays real-world visual information with generated radio analytics, enabling users to gain a better understanding of wireless activities and parameter selection.

The third component is a control interface that allows users to remotely control internet-connected network devices using virtual control knobs presented via AR. This control flow enables users to adjust parameters such as transmit powers and antenna radiation patterns.

Lastly, a cloud management framework facilitates device association with the AR framework and allows users to generate markers for network devices. Users can engage in a gamification process to adjust control knobs for optimizing wireless network performance, contributing to the development of new wireless network control algorithms.

Market Applications

Wireless Network Management: The system can be applied to improve the management and optimization of wireless networks in various environments, such as homes, offices, and public spaces
Wireless Network Research: The system supports wireless network research and experimentation by providing real-time insights into antenna radiation patterns and wireless activities
Augmented Reality Technologies: The patent contributes to the advancement of augmented reality technologies in the field of wireless connectivity

Key Advantages

Real-time Visualization: The system offers real-time visualization of antenna radiation patterns and beam directions, providing valuable insights into wireless network dynamics
User-Friendly AR Interface: Augmented reality makes it easier for users to understand wireless activities and control network devices, enhancing user experience
Data Collection and Analysis: The system collects and aggregates wireless measurement data, allowing users to gain insights into their wireless network performance and facilitating the development of new control algorithms
Wireless Network Optimization: Users can optimize wireless coverage and performance through the gamification process, ensuring a better wireless experience

Problems Solved

Difficulty Visualizing Wireless Signals: The patent addresses the challenge of visualizing radio frequency (RF) electromagnetic signals, which are typically invisible, by providing dynamic and real-time visualization of antenna radiation patterns
Lack of Real-Time AR Applications in Wireless Connectivity: It overcomes the limited applications of augmented reality in wireless connectivity by enabling real-time visualization of wireless signals and activities
Disconnect between Antenna Radiation Patterns and Network Performance: The system bridges the gap between available antenna radiation patterns and their effects on network performance, especially in cognitive radio networks
Limited functionality and usability of conventional beamforming systems: Conventional beamforming systems typically require complex hardware and software configurations, and lack user-friendly interfaces and feedback mechanisms, which are addressed here