Three-dimensional visualization of Wi-Fi signal propagation through multiple floors

The present technology is directed to visualizing a Wi-Fi access point (AP) signal propagation pattern through multiple floors. The present technology can execute a Wi-Fi signal propagation model corresponding to a first AP on a first floor of a building plan and a second AP on a second floor of the building plan. The Wi-Fi signal propagation model calculates a Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for a plurality of APs including the first AP and the second AP. The present technology can further present a visualization of the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the plurality of APs, wherein the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the first AP on the first floor of the building plan projects onto the second floor of the building plan.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The subject matter of this disclosure relates in general to the field of wireless networks, and more particularly, to systems and methods for visualizing a Wi-Fi access point (AP) signal propagation pattern through multiple floors.

BACKGROUND

With growing interest in optimizing the wireless network infrastructure to improve the wireless network performance, various wireless network planning tools are available for analyzing, visualizing, and troubleshooting the wireless signal propagation (e.g., Wi-Fi coverage) of the wireless network. A visualization of the wireless signal propagation can help understanding the signal propagation (i.e., assessing the signal propagation behavior) and validating the signal propagation based on signal level measurements from APs and sensors so that an optimized wireless network can be designed, for example, as to where to place or how to configure Wi-Fi APs.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various wireless network planning tools are available for analyzing, simulating, visualizing, and troubleshooting wireless signal propagation (i.e., Wi-Fi coverage) of a wireless network. Most of the tools provide a simulation of Wi-Fi coverage by predicting a wireless signal strength and signal propagation on a single floor, typically by predicting the wireless signal propagation at one height and filling the entire 3-D volume uniformly.

However, such approximations cannot provide an accurate and reliable visualization of the wireless signal propagation. For example, in a building plan with multiple floors, the wireless signal propagation on the current floor can experience noise or interferences caused by APs or objects located on the other floors such as a floor above or a floor below. Such noise or interferences can particularly affect the Wi-Fi coverage and network performance near the ceiling or the ground of the current floor.

As such, a single plane of Wi-Fi coverage cannot accurately reflect the network performance throughout the floor in 3-D. A dynamic network environment can be more accurately visualized when any interference or impact from other floors is also considered.

Therefore, there exists a need for 3-D visualization of the Wi-Fi AP signal propagation pattern through multiple floors. The present technology includes systems, methods, and computer-readable media for solving these problems and discrepancies. Specifically, systems, methods, and computer-readable media for providing a 3-D visualization of a Wi-Fi signal propagation (i.e., Wi-Fi coverage) through multiple floors are provided in the present disclosure.

Overview

The present technology includes systems, methods, and computer-readable media are provided for visualizing a Wi-Fi AP signal propagation pattern through multiple floors.

According to at least one example of the present technology, a method includes executing a Wi-Fi signal propagation model corresponding to at least one first AP on a first floor of a building plan and at least one second AP on a second floor of the building plan. The method further includes presenting a visualization of the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for a plurality of APs including the first AP on the first floor and the second AP on the second floor.

In particular, the Wi-Fi signal propagation model calculates a Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the plurality of APs including the first AP and the second AP. Also, the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the first AP on the first floor of the building plan projects onto the second floor of the building plan.

In another example, a system for visualizing a Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern through multiple floors (e.g., 3-D signal propagation visualization system) is provided that includes a storage (e.g., a memory configured to store data, such as virtual content data, one or more images, etc.) and one or more processors (e.g., implemented in circuitry) coupled to the memory and configured to execute instructions and, in conjunction with various components (e.g., a network interface, a display, an output device, etc.), cause the one or more processors (e.g., a visualization service) to execute a Wi-Fi signal propagation model corresponding to a first AP on a first floor of a building plan and a second AP on a second floor of the building plan and present a visualization of the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the plurality of AP.

A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having stored therein instructions which, when executed by one or more processors (e.g., a visualization service), can cause the one or more processors to execute a Wi-Fi signal propagation model corresponding to a first AP on a first floor of a building plan and a second AP on a second floor of the building plan and present a visualization of the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the plurality of APs.

The Wi-Fi signal propagation model calculates a Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for a plurality of APs including the first AP and the second AP. The present technology can further present a visualization of the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the plurality of APs, wherein the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the first AP on the first floor of the building plan projects onto the second floor of the building plan

DESCRIPTION

FIG.1illustrates an example 3-D signal propagation visualization system100for presenting a wireless signal propagation in 3-D according to some aspects of the disclosed technology. As shown inFIG.1, the 3-D signal propagation visualization system100can include one or more services primarily responsible for examining and analyzing signals from a plurality of access points (APs)102A,102B,102C, . . . (collectively,102), determining a signal propagation pattern for the APs102based on a signal propagation model, and providing a 3-D visualization of the signal propagation pattern including analysis, troubleshooting, simulations, or optimizations of the signal propagation pattern.

The 3-D signal propagation visualization system100can include an AP database104that includes information about the plurality of APs102, which are configured to transmit wireless communication signals. In some aspects, the information about the plurality of APs102can include, but is not limited to a location of APs102and their orientation (e.g., azimuth and elevation angles), a model number, a signal strength, end-of-life data, an antenna type, a channel, a frequency (band), or network information of which the APs102belong.

The 3-D signal propagation visualization system100can include an AP model service106that is a collection of signal propagation models for different types of AP antennae102. In some examples, the signal propagation model includes a description of the signal propagation pattern based on the information associated with the AP antennae102. For example, such information can be provided by the AP database104or related to parameters derived from various configuration attributes and measurements such as transmission power (txPower), signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), Key Performance Indicator (KPI) values, or Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI) values.

The 3-D signal propagation visualization system100can include a visualization service108configured to perform 3-D modeling, i.e., display a 3-D visualization of the signal propagation pattern based on the signal propagation model, the antenna pattern of the Wi-Fi AP, the configuration of the Wi-Fi AP (txPower, azimuth angle, elevation, band and channel) and the geometry of space as defined in a building plan. In some examples, the visualization service108can display the 3-D visualization of the signal propagation in the form of a heatmap, which uses color-coding to represent different values of the signal strength. In some instances, the visualization service108can generate a time-based (temporal) visualization where changes in the signal propagation pattern over time can be presented in the 3-D visualization.

The 3-D signal propagation visualization system100can also include a ray tracing service110configured to perform ray tracing from a particular AP. In some examples, the ray-tracing service110can compute attenuation based on the line-of-sight from a particular AP to a certain vertex in space. For example, ray tracing can be used to visualize the signal propagation by tracing paths of electromagnetic waves and simulating the way that the waves interact with any objects it may hit. If a straight line is drawn from a particular AP and does not hit anything in the space, then the signal propagation model works in a straightforward manner. On the other hand, if there is an obstacle (e.g., a wall, shelving, ceiling, etc.) along the path, the signal propagation pattern can be broken into multiple segments since the signal propagation pattern can change depending on the properties of the obstacle that the pattern has to pass through.

The 3-D signal propagation visualization system100can include a telemetry service112configured to collect and record data from the plurality of APs102or sensors on the floor pertaining to the APs102in space. In some examples, the telemetry data can be used to update information about a particular AP (e.g., model, antenna type, etc.) or feed into the visualization service108to provide an optimized 3-D visualization instead of relying on a predicted model. In some instances, the telemetry service112can utilize the telemetry data to validate a certain predicted model.

The 3-D signal propagation visualization system100can also include an analysis service114that is configured to analyze data associated with the wireless coverage such as SNR measurements, latency measurements, a number of client devices associated with each of the APs, KPI values, txPower measurements, or RSSI measurements. In some instances, the analysis service114can further perform analysis pertaining to data associated with one or more errors or constraints of the APs102that can impact the wireless coverage.

The 3-D signal propagation visualization system100can include a troubleshooting service116configured to perform various types of troubleshooting by isolating and root-causing issues or errors relating to the network performance and signal propagation pattern based on the APs102and providing suggestions to resolve such issues or errors. In some examples, the troubleshooting service116can identify both cause and consequences of the issues, for example, obstructions in the line of sight, a level of signal coverage, a number of client devices connected to APs, co-channel interference, or stickiness of roaming clients to APs.

The 3-D signal propagation visualization system100can include an optimization service118configured to provide a 3-D visualization of the optimized signal propagation pattern that provides better operational signal coverage and lower interference. In some examples, the optimization service118can provide an upgrade option for the APs or configuration settings to achieve improved network performance. In some instances, the optimization service118can provide the optimized 3-D visualization that illustrates dynamic changes as conditions in the network change. In some examples, the optimization service118can propose different optimized layouts by radio spectrum (RF) or deployment of the APs for a given space.

The 3-D signal propagation visualization system100can also include a simulation service120configured to simulate various scenarios relating to deployment of APs, potential network failures, estimated RF leakage, or alternative network configurations. In some instances, the simulation service120can provide a simulated 3-D visualization of the various proposed layouts provided by the optimization service118.

In some examples, the simulation service120can provide a simulated 3-D visualization illustrating the impact of an alternative deployment of APs, for example, how the signal propagation pattern is impacted by deploying a new or upgraded AP at different locations on the floor. Also, the simulation service120can simulate a 3-D visualization based on the impact of an upgrade or different AP upgrade strategies prior to the actual update to observe and compare the wireless coverage.

Furthermore, a type of materials of obstructions in the space can significantly impact the signal propagation pattern. The simulation service120can provide a simulated visualization of the signal propagation pattern depending on the type of materials of obstacles such as walls or shelving, or what is stored on shelving (e.g., liquid, metal, non-metal, etc.).

Additionally, the simulation service120can provide a simulated 3-D visualization illustrating potential network failures. For example, the simulation service120can help define coverage zones to avoid coverage blackout zones in common.

The 3-D signal propagation visualization system100can also include a user location service122configured to identify a location of a user (e.g., client device) and obtain data associated with the user/client device to determine the signal propagation pattern. For example, a client density can significantly affect the wireless network coverage.

In some examples, the user location identified by the user location service122can be combined with an AP coverage so that the 3-D visualization can include the impact of the client device such as an operating system of client devices, client device density, or any RF interference due to the presence of RF-emitting device (e.g., mobile phones, cordless phones, wireless security cameras, etc.).

In some examples, the user location service122can help to optimize the latency and the signal propagation pattern by identifying the location of client devices and the type of services that the client devices are performing. For example, too many client devices performing VoIP calls on the same AP can worsen the network performance and cause a bad call quality due to latencies. The 3-D visualization of the signal propagation pattern can include the user location provided by the user location service122to illustrate such impact of the client devices on the wireless network coverage.

The 3-D signal propagation visualization system100can also include a building plan design service124configured to allow a user to manage the settings of the building plan or the floor plan of the space (e.g., layout, objects, viewpoint, etc.).

The 3-D signal propagation visualization system100can include a building plan import service126configured to import a building plan or a floor plan. The building plan or the floor plan can be in any suitable format, for example, a Building Information Modeling (BIM) file or a Computer-Aided Design (CAD) file. In some examples, the building plan import service126can import the building plan or the floor plan that contains a technical drawing, blueprint, schematic, or 3-D rendering of the floor that is to be visualized in 3-D.

In some instances, the signal propagation pattern can be overlaid over the building plan or the floor plan provided by the building plan import service126. Depending on the type of the imported file for the building plan, details of the building or the floor such as a type of materials of the obstacles (e.g., a wall, etc.) or location of APs or sensors can further be included in the building plan.

The 3-D signal propagation visualization system100can also include a building plan layout service128configured to store the building plan layout and support the 3-D visualization of the building plan layout. In some examples, the building plan layout service128can perform the function of a management and control platform for managing, monitoring, and storing data associated with the visualization based on the building plan.

The 3-D signal propagation visualization system100can also include a user interface service130configured to allow a user to manage and control settings of the visualization or network configurations to optimize the 3-D visualization. For example, the settings can include a viewpoint (e.g., a first-person perspective, an orbit view, or a bird's eye view), layout, parameters (e.g., txPower, SNR measurements, KPI values, RSSI values, etc.), or visualization options. Also, the examples of network configurations can include but are not limited to elevation or azimuth angle of APs, deployment of APs, band and a type of network or APs.

In some instances, the user interface service130can provide information to or receive feedback from the user via a communication service132as further described below. In some examples, the user may be asked to evaluate and manage various suggestions proposed by the troubleshooting service116or the optimization service118.

The 3-D signal propagation visualization system100can also include a communication service132configured to transmit and receive information wirelessly over a network. In some examples, the communication service132can send and receive communications from/to a building plan system (not shown) that may provide building plan updates. In some instances, the communication service132can transmit and receive data from/to a user for analyzing, troubleshooting, simulating, or optimizing the 3-D visualization of the signal propagation pattern.

FIG.2illustrates an example network architecture140for the 3-D signal propagation visualization system100illustrated inFIG.1according to some aspects of the disclosed technology. The network architecture140comprises a wireless network150, sales tools160, a network controller170, a Wi-Fi 3D analyzer180, and a user190. In some embodiments, Wi-Fi 3D analyzer180executes on a client device and takes advantage of hardware acceleration capabilities from a graphics processor, but Wi-Fi 3D analyzer180can operate in other environments such as a server or on a device with only general processing capabilities, or in a cloud environment. Even though the network controller170and Wi-Fi 3D analyzer180are illustrated as separate components inFIG.2, in some examples, they can be a single device (i.e., the Wi-Fi 3D analyzer180is run on the network controller70itself) or run in a virtualized cloud environment.

The wireless network150comprises APs102illustrated inFIG.1, sensor(s), and user devices. The network controller170can include AP database104, AP model service106, telemetry service112, user location service122, building plan design service124, building plan import service126, and building plan layout service128, all of which are illustrated inFIG.1. The Wi-Fi 3D analyzer180can include visualization service108, analysis service114, troubleshooting service116, optimizations service118, simulation service120, and user interface service130, all of which are also illustrated inFIG.1.

The wireless network150can transmit sensor data152, assurance data154, and/or telemetry data156to the network controller170. The network controller170can store such received data and can provide user interfaces and APIs for receiving network configurations and updates. Network configurations can be used to provision158various devices in wireless network150. Also, the network controller170can transmit live data172, 3-D maps174(e.g., 3-D building plans or floor plans), and/or hardware models176to the Wi-Fi 3D analyzer. While not shown inFIG.2, alternatively, live data172, 3-D maps174, and/or hardware models176can be exported to cloud instead of a local PC or GPU and provide user190with insights186.

The Wi-Fi 3D analyzer180can use the 3-D maps174and hardware models176to generate predictions or simulations of wireless signal propagation and their correlation with the live data172. Based on the data received from the network controller170, the Wi-Fi 3-D analyzer180can provide wireless 3-D rendering182, simulation184, and/or insights188to the user190. For example, the user can be provided with the wireless 3-D rendering182of the wireless signal coverage (e.g., RF coverage) and options to run simulations184for what-if scenarios, and insights186including suggestions for improving the network performance associated with the wireless signal coverage. Based on what is provided by the Wi-Fi 3D analyzer180, the user190can take action188accordingly, for example, modifying a network configuration to improve the network performance. Wi-Fi 3D analyzer180can forward any updates to the network configuration for provisioning178to the network controller170.

Furthermore, the sales tools160can provide a product upgrade management based on the communication flow between the sales tools160, the network controller170, and the Wi-Fi 3D analyzer180. The sales tools160can transmit new products and lifecycle data162to the network controller170. Then the network controller170forwards the new products and lifecycle data164to the Wi-Fi 3D analyzer180. The new products and lifecycle data162and164can include new product availability for sale or end-of-life dates for AP products.

Based on the new products and lifecycle data164, the Wi-Fi 3D analyzer180can provide upgrade proposals166, which can include simulation184and insights186on product upgrade, to the user190. Also, in response to the upgrade proposals, the user190can place a new product order168by utilizing the sales tools160. For example, the new products and lifecycle data162can include end-of-life data associated with a particular AP so that an upgrade or replacement of a new AP can be recommended based on the end-of-life data prior to the expiry of the AP. Also, the user190can place an order for a new AP with the sales tools160.

FIG.3illustrates an example network architecture diagram for a wireless network150, a network controller170, and a Wi-Fi 3-D analyzer180according to some aspects of the disclosed technology. The wireless network150, also illustrated inFIG.2, comprises APs102and sensors103and client devices105.

The wireless network150can transmit telemetry feedback (for example, telemetry data156illustrated inFIG.2) to the network controller170. For example, each AP102transmits beacons to the sensor103whereby a sensor report can be generated. Also, the APs102communicate with each other via inter-AP Neighbor Discovery Protocol (NDP) to generate neighbor reports. Furthermore, client device105measures beacons and returns a report with stored beacon information (e.g., 802.11k beacon reports). Based on the neighbor reports, 802.11k beacon reports, and sensor reports, the wireless network150provides telemetry feedback to the network controller170. The telemetry feedback can include information about a distance and azimuth angle between a pair of APs or an AP and a sensor and walls or any obstructions between the pair on a building plan or a floor plan. Also, network controller170includes location information of client devices based on RSSI location, which is received from the wireless network150.

Based on the data provided by the wireless network150, the network controller170and the Wi-Fi 3-D analyzer180can determine a predictive RSSI model and visualize the predicted RSSI at all 3-D locations.

FIG.4illustrates an example menu200including a list of various parameters that can be adjusted for the 3-D visualization of the wireless signal propagation.

Menu200provides an option for key performance indicator (KPI) heatmap metrics202, for example, none, RSSI, SNR, or Interference. Depending on the selected heatmap metrics, the 3-D visualization of the wireless signal propagation can be presented based on RSSI values, SNR measurements, or interference measurements. RSSI values are a predicted or measured power level at a point in space of an RF transmitted from an AP. Also, SNR measurements are based on the amplitude of signal and noise level. Interference measurements or predictions are based on the power of the interfering signals.

Menu200also provides an option for heatmap type204, for example, point cloud, isosurface, or scanner. A point cloud heatmap provides the 3-D visualization of the wireless signal propagation as a collection of color-coded points where a color variation corresponds to a degree of signal strength. An isosurface heatmap displays the 3-D visualization of the wireless signal propagation with isosurfaces (e.g., contour lines or surfaces) where each isosurface represents points of equal values in a 3-D space. A scanner provides the 3-D visualization of the wireless signal propagation with color-coded bands where the color of the bands corresponds to a degree of signal strength. Also, the scanner allows a user to manipulate a height in the 3-D space, for example, via a height manipulation bar under a cut height208so that the wireless signal propagation pattern can be scanned through the 3-D space, for example, from a ground to a ceiling and visualized at varying heights.

Furthermore, a heatmap opacity206can be adjusted, for example, in a scale of 0 (i.e., non-transparent) to 100 (i.e., fully transparent) to adjust the transparency of the 3-D visualization.

Also, cut height (ft)208can be adjusted, for example, in a scale of 0 to 10. A user can select a particular height where the 3-D visualization is desired. Or, with a play button and a pause button, the 3-D visualization of the wireless signal propagation can be simulated at continuously varying heights from 0 ft to 10 ft.

Menu200also provides an option where a visualization of telemetry data210can be switched on and off. Also, telemetry threshold212can be adjusted, for example, in a scale of −100 to −35.

Furthermore, menu200provides an option for a RF Model selection214. For example, a drop-down list provides various options for the RF model such as cubes and walled offices, drywall offices, or open space.

While not shown inFIG.4, menu200can include different or alternative options. For example, menu200could include an option for clipping a 3-D floor plan to take cross-sections of the floor plan to allow clear visualization of an area of interest. Menu200could include an adjustable noise floor to be used in calculating a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). Menu200could include an option to change the model of AP being visualized to permit comparisons between various hardware options. Menu200could include an option to adjust the frequency band from 2.4 GHz to 5 GHz to visualize attributes associated with RF propagation at those frequencies. The 2.4 GHz band typically provides a greater distance of coverage, while the 5 GHz band typically provides faster communication speeds. Menu200can include antennae options that might permit visualizations using directional antennas or omnidirectional antennas. Menu200could provide options for adjusting transmission power of an antenna, or a channel. Menu200could also provide various sliders for visualizing animations such as a time scale. Accordingly, the menu can provide many options that can vary depending on the type of visualization being presented.

FIG.5illustrates an example 3-D visualization300of Wi-Fi AP RF signal propagation. In the 3-D visualization300, the 3-D visualization of a building plan (e.g., floor plan) is overlaid with RF propagation patterns. As shown inFIG.5, the 3-D visualization300illustrates the RF signal propagation patterns as a collection of zones302where each zone represents a service area covered by each AP102(e.g., AP102illustrated inFIG.1). Each zone is in the shape of a dome to illustrate a signal strength in the service area in 3-D instead of a simple flat layer in 2-D. Furthermore, the color and size of the domes correspond to a degree of signal strength from the AP in the service area. The dome shape acknowledges that the RF propagation from an AP is not uniform at all heights of a floor plan.

Even though the 3-D visualization300of Wi-Fi AP RF signal propagation inFIG.5uses a color-coded dome model, the 3-D visualization of the RF signal propagation according to the present disclosure can be provided in the form of a point cloud model, a heat map, or a contour map to illustrate the degree of signal strength in the 3-D space.

FIG.6illustrates an example method600for providing a 3-D visualization of Wi-Fi AP signal propagation pattern through multiple floors. Although the example method600depicts a particular sequence of operations, the sequence may be altered without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, some of the operations depicted may be performed in parallel or in a different sequence that does not materially affect the function of the method600. In other examples, different components of an example device or system that implements the method600may perform functions at substantially the same time or in a specific sequence.

According to some examples, the method600includes executing a Wi-Fi signal propagation model corresponding to at least one first AP on a first floor of a building plan and at least one second AP on a second floor of the building plan at step610. For example, the visualization service108illustrated inFIG.1may execute a Wi-Fi signal propagation model corresponding to at least one first AP on a first floor of a building plan and at least one second AP on a second floor of the building plan.

In some examples, the Wi-Fi signal propagation model calculates a Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for a plurality of APs including the at least one first AP and the at least one second AP. For example, the visualization service108illustrated inFIG.1may calculate a RF propagation pattern (i.e., a Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern) for at least one Wi-Fi AP102(e.g., the at least one first AP on the first floor or the at least one second AP on the second floor) based on the Wi-Fi signal propagation model for at least one Wi-Fi AP, the antenna pattern of the Wi-Fi AP, the configuration of the Wi-Fi AP (txPower, azimuth angle, elevation, band, and channel), and the geometry of space as defined in a building plan.

An example method700for the calculating the 3-D Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern (i.e., 3-D RF propagation model) is illustrated inFIG.7. The method700includes projecting a plurality of ray-paths in a plurality of directions in a 3-D space at block710. For example, the ray tracing service110illustrated inFIG.1may project a plurality of ray-paths in a plurality of directions in a 3-D space. In some embodiments, the ray-paths originate from the Wi-Fi AP and emanate in a variety of X, Y, and Z planes.

The method700includes determining whether the ray-paths interface with a building material defined in a building plan at block720. For example, the ray tracing service110illustrated inFIG.1may determine whether the ray-paths interface with a building material defined in a building plan.

The method700includes segmenting each ray-path of the ray-paths that interface with a building material the respective ray-path into contiguous segments of substantially uniform mediums at block730. For example, the ray tracing service110illustrated inFIG.1may segment the respective ray-path into contiguous segments of substantially uniform mediums.

The ray tracing service110can provide the segmented ray paths to an AP model service106. The combination of the collection of ray paths for any AP and model information from AP model service106can be provided to visualization service108.

The method700includes determining a RF signal strength at points along the segments of the ray-paths at block740. For example, the visualization service108illustrated inFIG.1may determine a RF signal strength (i.e., wireless signal strength or Wi-Fi signal strength) at points along the segments of the ray-paths. The visualization service108can use the information about the collection of ray paths for any AP and a RF propagation model particular to the type of AP and the parameters for the specification AP to determine the RF signal strength at points along the segments of the ray-paths. In some embodiments, the signal degrades along the ray path as defined by the RF propagation model as a function of distance through the segment and characteristics of RF propagation pattern through the substantially uniform mediums through which the segment traverses.

In some examples, the substantially uniform mediums include open space, concrete, glass, wood, metal, non-metal, glass, liquid, or other materials. Depending on the type of materials, the ray-path interfaces in a different way, which results in varying RF signal strengths at points along the segments.

Referring toFIG.6, according to some examples, the method600includes presenting a visualization of the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the plurality of APs at step620. In some instances, the plurality of APs includes the at least one first AP on the first floor and the at least one second AP on the second floor. For example, the visualization service108illustrated inFIG.1may present a visualization of the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the plurality of APs including the at least one first AP and the at least one second AP.

In some examples, the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the at least one first AP on the first floor of the building plan projects onto the second floor of the building plan. InFIG.8, the 3-D visualization800of Wi-Fi signal propagation illustrates the Wi-Fi coverage through multiple floors (e.g., Floor 1 and Floor 2). As shown inFIG.8, the Wi-Fi propagation pattern802from an AP on Floor 1 projects onto Floor 2 of the building plan. The Wi-Fi coverage (i.e., wireless AP signal propagation) from an AP located on Floor 1 reaches Floor 2 and provides Wi-Fi coverage804on Floor 2. Also, Wi-Fi coverage806and808on Floor 2 are projected from APs located on Floor 1.

In some instances, the visualization of the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the plurality of APs illustrates the first floor of the building plan showing a volume where the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the at least one second AP on the second floor of the building plan projects onto the first floor. For example, the 3-D visualization of the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern can include a Wi-Fi coverage that appears on the first floor (Floor 1), which is projected from an AP placed on the second floor (Floor 2). The Wi-Fi coverage on the first floor can be represented in a 3-D volume in the visualization.

According to some examples, the method600further includes detecting one or more overlapping portions within the building plan where the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the at least one first AP on the first floor and the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the at least one second AP on the second floor overlap. For example, the visualization service108illustrated inFIG.1may detect one or more overlapping portions within the building plan where the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the at least one first AP on the first floor and the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the at least one second AP on the second floor overlap.

According to some examples, the method600includes marking the one or more overlapping portions within the building plan in the visualization of the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the plurality of APs. For example, the visualization service108illustrated inFIG.1may mark the one or more overlapping portions within the building plan in the visualization of the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the plurality of APs.

In some instances, any interference or attenuation on the current floor due to the Wi-Fi signal propagation from other floors can be determined based on the marking of the one or more overlapping portions.

Also, the marking of the one or more overlapping portions can provide the severity of the impact from the Wi-Fi coverage from other floors to the Wi-Fi coverage on the current floor. For example, the marking of the one or more overlapping portions can be color-coded or represented in a different shape or pattern depending on the degree of the interference.

According to some examples, the method600further comprises determining that a Wi-Fi signal strength in the one or more overlapping portions within the building plan is lower than a threshold. For example, the visualization service108illustrated inFIG.1may determine that a Wi-Fi signal strength in the one or more overlapping portions within the building plan is lower than a threshold.

In some instances, a user interface can be provided to allow a user to manage and control the threshold to simulate the change of the Wi-Fi coverage based on varying thresholds. For example, the user interface service130as illustrated inFIG.1can provide a user with an option to adjust the threshold for areas in which the Wi-Fi coverage is lower than the threshold.

Further, the method600comprises providing one or more suggestions to improve the Wi-Fi signal strength so that the Wi-Fi signal strength in the one or more overlapping portions is over the threshold. For example, the visualization service108illustrated inFIG.1may provide one or more suggestions to increase the Wi-Fi signal strength in the one or more overlapping portions over the threshold.

In some instances, the one or more suggestions are based on data associated with power, frequency, and channel of the APs. For example, wireless network150as illustrated inFIG.2can provide sensors data152, assurance data154, or telemetry data156, all of which can be associated with characteristics of each of the APs102. Based on such data, Wi-Fi 3D analyzer180may provide insights186to user190including the one or more suggestions on how to improve the Wi-Fi signal strength and optimize the Wi-Fi coverage.

In some examples, the one or more suggestions include a change in a configuration of the at least one first AP or the at least one second AP. For example, the optimization service118illustrated inFIG.1can provide a suggestion where the Wi-Fi coverage can be optimized in terms of network configuration.

Furthermore, the method600includes determining that, within the one or more overlapping portions on the second floor of the building plan, a Wi-Fi signal strength from the at least one first AP on the first floor is stronger than a Wi-Fi signal strength from the at least one second AP on the second floor. For example, the visualization service108illustrated inFIG.1may determine that within the one or more overlapping portions located on the second floor, a signal strength from an AP located on the first floor is stronger than a signal strength from an AP located on the second floor.

In some examples, the visualization of the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern can include a visual representation of the one or more overlapping portions on the second floor when a signal strength from an AP located on the first floor is stronger than a signal strength from an AP located on the second floor within the one or more overlapping portions.

According to some examples, the method600includes detecting interference in the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the at least one first AP on the first floor, wherein the interference is caused by one or more objects located on the second floor. For example, the visualization service108illustrated inFIG.1may detect interference in the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the at least one first AP on the first floor where the interference is caused by one or more objects located on the second floor.

In some instances, not only the APs on other floors or the Wi-Fi signal propagation from the APs on the other floor, but also objects or obstacles located on the other floor (e.g., Floor 2) can impact the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern on the current floor (e.g., Floor 1).

In some examples, the impact on the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern on the current floor can vary depending on a type of materials of the objects or obstacles located on the other floor (e.g., open space, concrete, glass, wood, metal, non-metal, glass, liquid, or other materials).

According to some examples, the method600includes providing one or more proposals to account for the interference in the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the at least one first AP on the first floor caused by the one or more objects located on the second floor. For example, the visualization service108illustrated inFIG.1may provide one or more proposals to account for the interference in the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the at least one first AP on the first floor caused by the one or more objects located on the second floor.

In some examples, the visualization service108illustrated inFIG.1may include identification of the type of the materials of the objects or obstacles located on the floor. Furthermore, the optimization service118illustrated inFIG.1may provide a proposal regarding the location of the objects and obstacles or location of the APs based on the information associated with the type of materials of the objects.

According to some examples, an impact of signal leakage (e.g., RF leakage) can be identified and estimated based on telemetry feedback. For example, an atrium or other inter-floor RF conduits can cause the signal leakage within the building plan. Based on telemetry feedback from APs102and sensor(s)105as illustrated inFIG.3, the network controller170or Wi-Fi 3-D analyzer180can identify and estimate the impact of the signal leakage.

In some instances, the 3-D visualization of the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern can include a visual representation of the impact of the signal leakage. For example, the visualization service108illustrated inFIG.2may include a visual representation of the signal leakage, wherein the impact of signal leakage can be determined based on telemetry feedback.

FIG.9shows an example of computing system900, which can be for example any computing device making up 3-D signal propagation visualization system100, or any component thereof in which the components of the system are in communication with each other using connection905. Connection905can be a physical connection via a bus, or a direct connection into processor910, such as in a chipset architecture. Connection905can also be a virtual connection, networked connection, or logical connection.

Example system900includes at least one processing unit (CPU or processor)910and connection905that couples various system components including system memory915, such as read only memory (ROM)920and random access memory (RAM)925to processor910. Computing system900can include a cache of high-speed memory912connected directly with, in close proximity to, or integrated as part of processor910.

Processor910can include any general purpose processor and a hardware service or software service, such as services932,934, and936stored in storage device930, configured to control processor910as well as a special-purpose processor where software instructions are incorporated into the actual processor design. Processor910may essentially be a completely self-contained computing system, containing multiple cores or processors, a bus, memory controller, cache, etc. A multi-core processor may be symmetric or asymmetric.

To enable user interaction, computing system900includes an input device945, which can represent any number of input mechanisms, such as a microphone for speech, a touch-sensitive screen for gesture or graphical input, keyboard, mouse, motion input, speech, etc. Computing system900can also include output device935, which can be one or more of a number of output mechanisms known to those of skill in the art. In some instances, multimodal systems can enable a user to provide multiple types of input/output to communicate with computing system900. Computing system900can include communications interface940, which can generally govern and manage the user input and system output. There is no restriction on operating on any particular hardware arrangement and therefore the basic features here may easily be substituted for improved hardware or firmware arrangements as they are developed.

The storage device930can include software services, servers, services, etc., that when the code that defines such software is executed by the processor910, it causes the system to perform a function. In some embodiments, a hardware service that performs a particular function can include the software component stored in a computer-readable medium in connection with the necessary hardware components, such as processor910, connection905, output device935, etc., to carry out the function.

Illustrative examples of the disclosure include:

Aspect 1: A method for visualizing a Wi-Fi access point signal propagation pattern through multiple floors of a building plan, the method comprising: executing a Wi-Fi signal propagation model corresponding to at least one first access point on a first floor of a building plan and at least one second access point on a second floor of the building plan, wherein the Wi-Fi signal propagation model calculates a Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for a plurality of access points including the at least one first access point and the at least one second access point; and presenting a visualization of the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the plurality of access points, wherein the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the at least one first access point on the first floor of the building plan projects onto the second floor of the building plan.

Aspect 2: The method of Aspect 1, further comprising: detecting one or more overlapping portions within the building plan where the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the at least one first access point on the first floor and the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the at least one second access point on the second floor overlap; and marking the one or more overlapping portions within the building plan in the visualization of the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the plurality of access points.

Aspect 3: The method of any of Aspects 1 to 2, further comprising: determining that a Wi-Fi signal strength in the one or more overlapping portions within the building plan is lower than a threshold; and providing one or more suggestions to increase the Wi-Fi signal strength in the one or more overlapping portions over the threshold.

Aspect 4: The method of any of Aspects 1 to 3, wherein the one or more suggestions include a change in a configuration of the at least one first access point or the at least one second access point.

Aspect 5: The method of any of Aspects 1 to 4, wherein the visualization of the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the plurality of access points illustrates the first floor of the building plan showing a volume where the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the at least one second access point on the second floor of the building plan projects onto the first floor.

Aspect 6: The method of any of Aspects 1 to 5, wherein the Wi-Fi signal propagation model calculates the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the plurality of access points by: projecting a plurality of ray-paths in a plurality of directions in a 3-D space, wherein the ray-paths originate from each of the plurality of access points and emanate in a variety of X, Y, and Z planes; determining whether the ray-paths interface with one or more materials defined in the building plan; for each ray-path of the ray-paths that interface with the one or more materials defined in the building plan, segmenting the respective ray-path into contiguous segments of substantially uniform mediums; and determining a Wi-Fi signal strength at points along the contiguous segments of the ray-paths, wherein the Wi-Fi signal strength degrades along the contiguous segments of the ray-paths as defined by the Wi-Fi signal propagation model as a function of distance through the contiguous segments and characteristics of the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern through the substantially uniform mediums through which the contiguous segments traverse.

Aspect 7: The method of any of Aspects 1 to 6, further comprising: detecting interference in the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the at least one first access point on the first floor, wherein the interference is caused by one or more objects located on the second floor.

Aspect 8: The method of any of Aspects 1 to 7, further comprising: providing one or more proposals to account for the interference in the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the at least one first access point on the first floor caused by the one or more objects located on the second floor.

Aspect 9: The method of any of Aspects 1 to 8, further comprising: providing one or more proposals to account for the interference in the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the at least one first access point on the first floor caused by the one or more objects located on the second floor.

Aspect 10: A system for visualizing a Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern through multiple floors, comprising: a storage configured to store instructions; a processor configured to execute the instructions and cause the processor to: execute a Wi-Fi signal propagation model corresponding to at least one first access point on a first floor of a building plan and at least one second access point on a second floor of the building plan, wherein the Wi-Fi signal propagation model calculates a Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for a plurality of access points including the at least one first access point and the at least one second access point, and present a visualization of the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the plurality of access points, wherein the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the at least one first access point on the first floor of the building plan projects onto the second floor of the building plan.

Aspect 11: The system of Aspect 10, wherein the processor is configured to execute the instructions and cause the processor to: detect one or more overlapping portions within the building plan where the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the at least one first access point on the first floor and the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the at least one second access point on the second floor overlap; and mark the one or more overlapping portions within the building plan in the visualization of the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the plurality of access points.

Aspect 12: The system of any of Aspects 10 to 11, wherein the processor is configured to execute the instructions and cause the processor to: determine that a Wi-Fi signal strength in the one or more overlapping portions within the building plan is lower than a threshold; and provide one or more suggestions to increase the Wi-Fi signal strength in the one or more overlapping portions over the threshold.

Aspect 13: The system of any of Aspects 10 to 12, wherein the one or more suggestions include a change in a configuration of the at least one first access point or the at least one second access point.

Aspect 14: The system of any of Aspects 10 to 13, wherein the visualization of the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the plurality of access points illustrates the first floor of the building plan showing a volume where the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the at least one second access point on the second floor of the building plan projects onto the first floor.

Aspect 15: The system of any of Aspects 10 to 14, wherein the Wi-Fi signal propagation model calculates the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the plurality of access points by: projecting a plurality of ray-paths in a plurality of directions in a 3-D space, wherein the ray-paths originate from each of the plurality of access points and emanate in a variety of X, Y, and Z planes; determining whether the ray-paths interface with one or more materials defined in the building plan; for each ray-path of the ray-paths that interface with the one or more materials defined in the building plan, segmenting the respective ray-path into contiguous segments of substantially uniform mediums; and determining a Wi-Fi signal strength at points along the contiguous segments of the ray-paths, wherein the Wi-Fi signal strength degrades along the contiguous segments of the ray-paths as defined by the Wi-Fi signal propagation model as a function of distance through the contiguous segments and characteristics of the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern through the substantially uniform mediums through which the contiguous segments traverse.

Aspect 16: The system of any of Aspects 10 to 15, wherein the processor is configured to execute the instructions and cause the processor to: detect interference in the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the at least one first access point on the first floor, wherein the interference is caused by one or more objects located on the second floor.

Aspect 17: The system of any of Aspects 10 to 16, wherein the processor is configured to execute the instructions and cause the processor to: provide one or more proposals to account for the interference in the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the at least one first access point on the first floor caused by the one or more objects located on the second floor.

Aspect 18: The system of any of Aspects 10 to 17, wherein the processor is configured to execute the instructions and cause the processor to: provide one or more proposals to account for the interference in the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the at least one first access point on the first floor caused by the one or more objects located on the second floor.

Aspect 19: A non-transitory computer readable medium comprising instructions, the instructions, when executed by a computing system, cause the computing system to: execute a Wi-Fi signal propagation model corresponding to at least one first access point on a first floor of a building plan and at least one second access point on a second floor of the building plan, wherein the Wi-Fi signal propagation model calculates a Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for a plurality of access points including the at least one first access point and the at least one second access point; and present a visualization of the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the plurality of access points, wherein the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the at least one first access point on the first floor of the building plan projects onto the second floor of the building plan.

Aspect 20: The computer readable medium of Aspect 19, wherein the computer readable medium further comprises instructions that, when executed by the computing system, cause the computing system to: detect one or more overlapping portions within the building plan where the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the at least one first access point on the first floor and the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the at least one second access point on the second floor overlap; and mark the one or more overlapping portions within the building plan in the visualization of the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the plurality of access points.

Aspect 21: The computer readable medium of any of Aspects 19 to 20, wherein the computer readable medium further comprises instructions that, when executed by the computing system, cause the computing system to: determine that a Wi-Fi signal strength in the one or more overlapping portions within the building plan is lower than a threshold; and provide one or more suggestions to increase the Wi-Fi signal strength in the one or more overlapping portions over the threshold.

Aspect 22: The computer readable medium of any of Aspects 19 to 21, wherein the one or more suggestions include a change in a configuration of the at least one first access point or the at least one second access point.

Aspect 23: The computer readable medium of any of Aspects 19 to 22, wherein the visualization of the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the plurality of access points illustrates the first floor of the building plan showing a volume where the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the at least one second access point on the second floor of the building plan projects onto the first floor.

Aspect 24: The computer readable medium of any of Aspects 19 to 23, wherein the Wi-Fi signal propagation model calculates the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the plurality of access points by: projecting a plurality of ray-paths in a plurality of directions in a 3-D space, wherein the ray-paths originate from each of the plurality of access points and emanate in a variety of X, Y, and Z planes; determining whether the ray-paths interface with one or more materials defined in the building plan; for each ray-path of the ray-paths that interface with the one or more materials defined in the building plan, segmenting the respective ray-path into contiguous segments of substantially uniform mediums; and determining a Wi-Fi signal strength at points along the contiguous segments of the ray-paths, wherein the Wi-Fi signal strength degrades along the contiguous segments of the ray-paths as defined by the Wi-Fi signal propagation model as a function of distance through the contiguous segments and characteristics of the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern through the substantially uniform mediums through which the contiguous segments traverse.

Aspect 25: The computer readable medium of any of Aspects 19 to 24, wherein the computer readable medium further comprises instructions that, when executed by the computing system, cause the computing system to: detect interference in the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the at least one first access point on the first floor, wherein the interference is caused by one or more objects located on the second floor.

Aspect 26: The computer readable medium of any of Aspects 19 to 25, wherein the computer readable medium further comprises instructions that, when executed by the computing system, cause the computing system to: provide one or more proposals to account for the interference in the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the at least one first access point on the first floor caused by the one or more objects located on the second floor.

Aspect 27: The computer readable medium of any of Aspects 19 to 26, wherein the computer readable medium further comprises instructions that, when executed by the computing system, cause the computing system to: provide one or more proposals to account for the interference in the Wi-Fi signal propagation pattern for the at least one first access point on the first floor caused by the one or more objects located on the second floor.