System and Method for MIMO Split-Physical Layer Scheme for a Wireless Network

Abstract

A system employing split-PHY functionality across multiple access heads to establish multiple paths between a client device (CD) and an access network. Space-time coding includes transmitting one or multiple spatial streams through each access head. Macro transmit diversity includes transmitting a same signal, consisting of one or more spatial streams, from one or more access heads. A CD uses a strongest signal transmitted from at least one access head or diversity combining of two or more signals to recover the signal. Space-time coding includes receiving one or multiple spatial streams through each access head. Macro receive diversity includes receiving a same signal from a CD at one or more access heads. A strongest received signal is used to recover a signal or diversity combining of two or more signals received at different access heads is used to recover the transmitted signal.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The invention relates to a split physical (PHY) layer scheme for a multiple input multiple output (MIMO)-based wireless network.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Providing a cost effective, robust communications infrastructure using wireless local area networking (WLAN) technologies is a challenge in enterprise office environments. For example, the area to be covered within the office environment is diverse in size and shape (e.g. corridors, stairwells, atriums, conference rooms, workstation cubicles, etc.). The transmission path between a WLAN-enabled client device and a WLAN access point may be obscured by the building infrastructure (e.g. walls, support columns, stairways), by office equipment (e.g. book cases, storage units, cubicle partitions, etc.), and by the office workers themselves. In addition, the transmission path may be affected by other equipment operating in the area (e.g. microwave ovens, cellular phones, other WLAN devices, etc.) producin...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a method for improving wireless coverage in a way that takes into account the specific needs of different areas. This is done by using a central radio controller and multiple remote access heads, each with its own coverage pattern. The method allows for better control over the wireless signal and reduces interference with nearby areas. The overall coverage pattern is designed to be tailored to the specific needs of each area, providing better performance and efficiency. The method also allows for dynamic selection of the most suitable remote access heads for each transmission opportunity, reducing errors and maximizing throughput.

Problems solved by technology

Providing a cost effective, robust communications infrastructure using wireless local area networking (WLAN) technologies is a challenge in enterprise office environments.

In addition, the transmission path may be affected by other equipment operating in the area (e.g. microwave ovens, cellular phones, other WLAN devices, etc.) producing interference that disrupts communications.

Interference, whether intentional or unintentional, cannot be anticipated and must be dealt with as it occurs.

Normal operation of applications running on the client device may be disrupted during the time that it takes for the client device to find a new access point and to establish a connection through that access point.

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