Radio resource management using line of sight feedback

Abstract

A technique for determining one or more Radio Resource Management (RRM) input parameters at a first wireless access point (AP) is disclosed. The one or more RRM input parameters are determined based on line-of-sight (LOS) estimation between two wireless stations (STAs). Multiple RRM values ​​are generated based on the one or more RRM input parameters. A wireless connection is established between the first AP and the first STA using the RRM values.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments presented in this disclosure generally relate to wireless communication. More specifically, one or more embodiments disclosed herein relate to radio resource management using line-of-sight feedback. Background Technology

[0002] In enterprise WiFi, radio resource management (RRM) algorithms frequently rely on input measurements from communications between wireless access points (APs). For example, neighbor discovery protocol (NDP) packets can be transmitted from an AP to its neighbors. NDP packets can help neighboring APs discover the presence of a source AP and can be used to measure radio frequency (RF) path loss between APs.

[0003] Newer WiFi standards (such as 802.11k) include additional client measurement feedback. For example, a customer can now report information about other nearby APs visible to that customer to their associated AP. This information, along with AP-to-AP communication, can be used for RRM management and optimization. Attached Figure Description

[0004] To gain a more detailed understanding of the features described above in this disclosure, the brief summary of this disclosure can be described in more detail with reference to embodiments, some of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. However, it should be noted that the drawings illustrate typical embodiments and should not be considered limiting; other equivalent embodiments are contemplated.

[0005] Figure 1 The diagram illustrates the determination of range and line of sight between wireless STAs according to one embodiment.

[0006] Figure 2 Line-of-sight transmission between wireless APs is illustrated according to one embodiment.

[0007] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating a wireless user equipment and an access point according to one embodiment.

[0008] Figure 4 This is a flowchart of an RRM using line-of-sight information according to one embodiment.

[0009] Figure 5 The diagram illustrates line-of-sight likelihood elements transmitted in network messages according to an embodiment.

[0010] Figure 6 This is a flowchart further illustrating the use of line-of-sight information in an RRM according to one embodiment.

[0011] For ease of understanding, the same reference numerals are used where possible to indicate common elements in the figures. It is contemplated that elements disclosed in one embodiment may be advantageously used in other embodiments without specific description. Detailed Implementation

[0012] The embodiment includes a method. The method includes determining one or more radio resource management (RRM) input parameters at a first wireless access point (AP), wherein the one or more RRM input parameters are determined based on line-of-sight (LOS) estimation between two radio stations (STAs). The method also includes generating a plurality of RRM values ​​based on the one or more RRM input parameters. The method further includes establishing a wireless connection between the first AP and the first STA using the RRM values.

[0013] The embodiment also includes a first wireless access point (AP) including a processor and a memory storing a program. When executed on the processor, the program performs operations. These operations include determining one or more RRM input parameters at the AP, wherein the one or more RRM input parameters are determined based on a LOS estimate between two STAs. The operations also include generating a plurality of RRM values ​​based on the one or more RRM input parameters. The operations further include establishing a wireless connection between the first AP and the first STA using the RRM values.

[0014] The embodiments also include a non-transitory computer program product comprising a computer-readable storage medium having computer-readable program code executable by one or more computer processors performing operations. The operations include determining one or more RRM input parameters at the AP, wherein the one or more RRM input parameters are determined based on a LOS estimate between two STAs. The operations also include generating a plurality of RRM values ​​based on the one or more RRM input parameters. The operations further include establishing a wireless connection between a first AP and a first STA using the RRM values.

[0015] Example Implementation

[0016] As discussed above, in this embodiment, the AP can use client measurement feedback and AP-to-AP communication for RRM management and optimization. Currently, neither client measurement feedback nor AP-to-AP communication includes location information or information on whether there is a clear line of sight between the reporting and receiving devices.

[0017] However, recently proposed WiFi specifications include a report of the likelihood that ranging measurements between wireless stations (STAs) have been performed within the line of sight (LOS). For example, a draft specification of IEEE 802.11az includes a field that reports this likelihood of the LOS of the most recent ranging measurement.

[0018] In this embodiment, LOS information can be used to improve RRM management and optimization (e.g., via APs). In this embodiment, further discussed with reference to the following figures, by incorporating LOS information (rather than relying solely on AP-to-AP signal strength), RRM can better determine how much overlap actually exists between the coverage areas of two APs. For example, each transmission from one AP to two adjacent APs may have the same signal strength, but one adjacent AP may be physically closer to the source AP but not in the LOS, while the other AP may be physically farther from the source AP but in the LOS. The closer AP is more likely to overlap with the source AP in coverage because it is physically closer to the source AP.

[0019] Therefore, the source AP can incorporate LOS information to improve RRM and avoid overlap and radio transmission conflicts (e.g., interference). In embodiments, several different types of measurements can be used. For example, inter-AP measurements (i.e., AP-to-AP) can be used, and inter-AP measurements can include fine timing measurement (FTM) ranging performed between nearby APs, as well as NDP transmission and reception. Ranging can be added to the current out-of-channel procedure.

[0020] As another example, customer-to-AP measurements can also be used, including FTM ranging and beacon reports. In this example, to attempt to locate itself, a customer can quickly perform ranging with many nearby APs. When an AP finds that the customer has a high LOS likelihood with its associated AP and at least one nearby AP, it can request a beacon report from the customer. Customer reports with higher LOS likelihood can be assigned a higher reliability weight compared to customer reports with lower LOS likelihood. The data can then be collected and stored (e.g., in the AP's database or an AP-accessible database) for use in RRM and roaming.

[0021] Furthermore, as described below, in the embodiments, the LOS estimation information can be used for at least three aspects of RRM. First, the LOS estimation information can be used for LOS verification (e.g., verifying the LOS likelihood estimate). Second, the LOS estimation information can be used for channel and transmission power allocation. Third, the LOS estimation information can be used for roaming management. These are merely examples, and the LOS estimation information can be used for any suitable aspect of RRM.

[0022] Figure 1According to one embodiment, the determination of range and LOS between wireless STAs is illustrated. An indoor environment 100 includes multiple STAs, including APs 102A to 102H and user equipment 104. User equipment 104 can be any suitable user equipment, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, or other suitable devices. Each STA (e.g., APs 102A to 102H and user equipment 104) can estimate its range with other STAs in various ways. For example, a STA can use signal strength (e.g., Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI)) to receive transmissions received from other STAs.

[0023] As another example, STAs can use round-trip time measurements (e.g., FTM or other suitable techniques) to estimate the time it takes for a wireless signal to propagate between STAs. Because distance is proportional to propagation time (e.g., based on the speed of light), these round-trip time measurements can be used to estimate the range between STAs.

[0024] In an embodiment, this can be performed between STAs with a loss of authority (LOS) and also between STAs without a LOS. For example, AP 102A and AP 102H have a LOS using path 112. AP 102A can also communicate with AP 102B, but AP 102A has no LOS: the signal from AP 102A to AP 102B must either be reflected (e.g., along paths 110A and 110B) or transmitted through a blocking medium.

[0025] Similarly, User Equipment 104 has a LOS along path 114 to AP 102F. User Equipment 104 can also communicate with AP 102C, but User Equipment 104 has no LOS. Communication must be reflected or transmitted through a blocking medium. For example, communication between User Equipment 104 and AP 102C can be along reflected paths 116A to 116B to 116C.

[0026] Figure 2 One embodiment illustrates LOS transmission between wireless APs. Environment 200 (e.g., an indoor environment) includes APs 102A, 102B, and 102H. APs 102A and 102B are physically close to each other, but there is no LOS due to the frame between them. Assuming that the frame rarely allows or disallows signal transmission, the signal between APs 102A and 102B must propagate via a reflection path, such as from 110A to 110B. APs 102A and 102H have LOS paths, but they are physically far apart. The signal between APs 102A and 102H can propagate via a direct path 112.

[0027] AP 102A has a coverage area 122A. AP 102B has a coverage area 122B. AP 102H has a coverage area 122H. Because AP 102A is located physically adjacent to AP 102B, coverage areas 122A and 122B overlap, even though AP 102A and AP 102B do not have a direct LOS for communication. Because AP 102A is located further away from AP 102H, coverage areas 122A and 122H do not overlap.

[0028] Suppose that the measured path loss for communication between AP 102A and AP 102B (e.g., along path 110A to 110B) is the same as the measured path loss for communication between AP 102A and AP 102H. This could be because, for example, AP 102A is closer to AP 102B than AP 102H. However, the absence of LOS between AP 102A and AP 102B would result in a greater path loss per propagation distance.

[0029] An AP responsible for RRM management (e.g., AP 102A) might assume the same RRM value should apply to every scenario. However, this can lead to suboptimal results. Because coverage area 122A overlaps with coverage area 122B, APs 102A and 102B should account for this overlap and use different RRM values ​​to avoid conflicts (e.g., different channels or lower transmission power). Because coverage area 122A does not overlap with coverage area 122H, APs 102A and 102H do not need to consider the potential conflict of their RRM values. Incorporating LOS estimation into RRM can differentiate between scenarios and reduce or eliminate this problem.

[0030] Figure 3 This is a block diagram illustrating a user equipment 300 and an access point (AP) 350 according to one embodiment. The user equipment 300 includes a processor 302, a memory 310, and a network component 320. The processor 302 generally retrieves and executes programming instructions stored in the memory 310. The processor 302 may be included. The processor 302 represents a single central processing unit (CPU), multiple CPUs, a single CPU with multiple processing cores, a graphics processing unit (GPU) with multiple execution paths, etc.

[0031] Network component 320 includes the components necessary for the user equipment 300 to connect to the wireless communication network as described above. Figures 1 to 2 The components under discussion. For example, network component 320 may include a WiFi or cellular network interface component and associated software.

[0032] Although memory 310 is shown as a single entity, it may include one or more memory devices having memory blocks associated with entity addresses, such as random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, or other types of volatile and / or non-volatile memory. Memory 310 generally includes program code that performs various functions relevant to the use of user equipment 300. While alternative implementations may have different functions and / or combinations of functions, the program code is generally described as various functional “applications” or “modules” within memory 310.

[0033] Within memory 310, ranging module 312 helps determine the range with another wireless device (e.g., another user equipment, access point, another wireless infrastructure device, or any other suitable wireless device). In an embodiment, ranging module 312 can generate a range estimate with respect to other wireless devices. This will be based on... Figure 4 Further discussion will follow with the accompanying diagrams.

[0034] AP 350 includes processor 352, memory 360, and network component 370. Processor 352 generally retrieves and executes programming instructions stored in memory 360. Processor 352 may be included. This processor 302 represents a single central processing unit (CPU), multiple CPUs, a single CPU with multiple processing cores, a graphics processing unit (GPU) with multiple execution paths, etc.

[0035] Network component 370 includes the AP 350 and is necessary for wireless communication network connection as described above. Figures 1 to 2 The components under discussion. For example, network component 370 may include a WiFi or cellular network interface component and associated software.

[0036] Although memory 360 is shown as a single entity, it may include one or more memory devices having memory blocks associated with the entity's addresses, such as random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, or other types of volatile and / or non-volatile memory. Memory 360 generally includes program code that performs various functions relevant to the use of AP 350. While alternative implementations may have different functions and / or combinations of functions, the program code is generally described as various functional "applications" or "modules" within memory 360.

[0037] Within memory 360, ranging module 362 helps determine the range with another wireless device (e.g., a user device, another AP, another wireless infrastructure device, or any other suitable wireless device). In an embodiment, ranging module 362 can generate a LOS estimate with other wireless devices. Memory 360 also includes RRM module 364. In an embodiment, RRM module 364 manages the radio resources of AP 350. Furthermore, in an embodiment, RRM module 364 can use the LOS estimate generated by ranging module 362 for the RRM of AP 350. This will be based on... Figure 4 Further discussion will follow with the accompanying diagrams.

[0038] Furthermore, although the RRM module 364 is shown in the AP 350, the RRM module 364 may instead (or additionally) be located in the central controller or any other suitable network component. In one embodiment, the AP acts as a central controller or includes central controller functionality. Alternatively, another network component acts as a central controller or includes central controller functionality.

[0039] Figure 4 This is a flowchart 400 of an RRM using line-of-sight information according to one embodiment. At block 402, the ranging module (e.g., in...) Figure 3 The ranging module 362 in the AP 350 shown receives the LOS estimate. As discussed above, this can be the user equipment (e.g., in...) Figure 3 The LOS estimate can be obtained from the user equipment 300 shown, another AP, or any other suitable wireless device. Furthermore, the user equipment can receive the LOS estimate (e.g., the LOS estimate from another user equipment, AP, or other suitable wireless device). In embodiments, the LOS estimate can be as included in the proposed 802.11az specification, such as... Figure 5 The LOS likelihood element is shown.

[0040] Figure 5 One embodiment illustrates a LOS likelihood element 500 transmitted in a network message (e.g., as part of the 802.11az standard). In this embodiment, the LOS likelihood element comprises four octets. Octet 502 includes a component ID that identifies the LOS likelihood element. Octet 504 includes the length of the component (e.g., the length of the LOS likelihood element). Octet 506 includes a component ID extension.

[0041] Eight-bit byte 508 includes the LOS log-likelihood ratio. In an embodiment, the LOS log-likelihood ratio contains an estimated log-likelihood, i.e., the measurement included in the direction measurement element or in the TOD field of the FTM frame is a LOS measurement. For example, the LOS log-likelihood ratio field can be a signed 8-bit number containing 40xlog10 of the estimated ratio between the probability of the associated measurement on a LOS path and the probability of the measurement on a non-LOS path. In an embodiment, this covers a range from -31.75dB to +31.75dB. This is merely an example, and the LOS log-likelihood ratio can be represented in any suitable manner. Furthermore, eight-bit byte 508 may not include a log representation at all. In an embodiment, a predetermined value (e.g., 255) can be used in this eight-bit byte 508 to indicate that the LOS log-likelihood ratio is unavailable. Line-of-sight likelihood element 500 is merely an example of a data structure for LOS estimation. Any suitable element or data structure can be used.

[0042] return Figure 4 At box 404, the ranging module verifies the received LOS. As discussed above, in this embodiment, the ranging module receives the LOS estimate (e.g., included in...). Figure 5 (as shown in the LOS likelihood element 500). In an embodiment, the LOS estimate can be further enhanced by comparing the distance between wireless STAs (e.g., STAs whose LOS is estimated) with the estimated path loss between them to change the LOS likelihood estimate.

[0043] For example, the distance between wireless STAs can be estimated using FTM or any other suitable ranging technique. The estimated path loss can be obtained from existing computing techniques, such as NDP frames transmitted between STAs (e.g., between two APs). For example, in existing systems, APs can propagate or transmit NDP frames that include the transmission power used for NDP frame transmission. A receiver of one of these NDP frames can obtain the path loss by comparing the reported transmission power (e.g., in the NDP frame) with the RSSI of the received packets. NDP frames are just one example of suitable path loss acquisition techniques, and other protocols or techniques can be used (e.g., between user equipments, or between a user equipment and an AP).

[0044] In this embodiment, for two STAs within the LOS, the path loss will be matched to an LOS path loss model (e.g., free-space path loss). If the calculated path loss is significantly higher than the expected value of a given LOS path loss model, then the STA is likely not within the LOS. If the LOS estimate does not accurately indicate that the STA is within the LOS, the confidence level in the reported LOS information may be reduced. Alternatively, the LOS estimate itself can be modified to correct incorrect estimates. Furthermore, in this embodiment, an AP with a directional antenna can adjust the path loss model to account for antenna pattern gain (e.g., using antenna information available from a ranging module operating on the AP).

[0045] At box 406, the RRM module (e.g., in...) Figure 5 The RRM module 364 in the AP 350 shown modifies the RRM input parameters. In this embodiment, the RRM module modifies the RRM input parameters based on a validated LOS estimate after block 404. For example, the RRM module can generate enhanced path loss estimates for channel allocation, transmission power allocation, and roaming priority ranking. This will be explained below according to... Figure 6 A more detailed discussion.

[0046] At box 408, the RRM module uses RRM input parameters (e.g., the parameters generated at box 406) to determine and apply RRM values. In this embodiment, the RRM module uses RRM input parameters generated by using LOS estimation (e.g., based on...). Figure 6 The enhanced path loss estimation discussed here is used to determine channel allocation, transmission power, roaming priority ordering, and other appropriate RRM values.

[0047] For example, this can be accomplished using known RRM calculation algorithms and techniques (e.g., in existing APs). Because the improved RRM input parameters are generated using LOS estimation information, the known RRM algorithms and techniques will generate improved RRM values. The wireless STA (e.g., AP) can then operate using the generated radio resource values ​​(e.g., generated channel values, transmit power values, and roaming values).

[0048] Alternatively, the RRM calculation algorithm and technique themselves can be modified to incorporate LOS estimation information. For example, instead of modifying the input parameters of the RRM calculation algorithm and technique (e.g., as follows based on...), Figure 5 (As discussed), it is better to keep the input parameters constant and modify the RRM calculation algorithm and technique to take LOS estimation information into account. Furthermore, the input parameters of both the RRM calculation algorithm and technique, as well as the RRM calculation algorithm and technique themselves, can be modified to use LOS estimation information.

[0049] Figure 6A flowchart 600 of an RRM using LOS information is further illustrated according to one embodiment. In the embodiment, Figure 6 and Figure 4 The corresponding box is shown in box 406. At box 602, the RRM module (e.g., in...) Figure 5 The RRM module 364 in the AP 350 shown is based on LOS estimation (e.g., in...). Figure 4 (The verified LOS estimate generated at box 404 in the middle) modifies the channel allocation parameters.

[0050] Many current channel allocation algorithms and techniques rely on path loss measurements between APs for channel allocation. For example, channelization algorithms can attempt to improve frequency separation between neighboring basic service sets (BSS) (e.g., neighboring APs and user equipment). This can be done by assigning a metric to each channel based on: (1) how many detected neighbors are also operating on that channel, and (2) the RSSI of those neighbors. The RRM module then selects the channel with the lowest weight.

[0051] In embodiments, the RRM module can use LOS estimation information to improve this channelization. For example, as discussed above and Figure 2 As shown, two pairs of STAs (e.g., two pairs of APs) can have the same RSSI but different overlapping coverage areas. Figure 2 As shown, AP 102A can have the same RSSI from AP 102B and AP 102H, but AP 102B is closer to AP 102A and is more likely to conflict with AP 102A. This is because AP 102B is not within the LOS of AP 102A, while AP 102H is within the LOS of AP 102A.

[0052] The RRM module of AP 102A can receive the LOS estimate of AP 102B within AP 102A and incorporate this estimate into the channelization algorithm. For example, AP 102A can more strongly attempt to avoid conflicts with AP 102B because AP 102A and AP 102B may have coverage overlap (e.g., even if the RSSI of the pair may be relatively low). In one embodiment, this can be accomplished by modifying the path loss algorithm used for channelization, which will incorporate the LOS estimate information. For example, this can be done using the following equation:

[0053] PL_Enhanced = PL_Measured + (LOS_Estimate - 0.5) * Adjustment coefficient

[0054] In this embodiment, PL_Enhanced represents the enhanced path loss incorporated into the LOS estimation information, PL_Enhanced represents the measured path loss (e.g., based on NDP frame transmission or any other suitable technique), and LOS_Estimate represents the LOS likelihood estimation information (e.g., in the case of...). Figure 5 (As shown in the LOS likelihood element 500).

[0055] At box 604, the RRM module modifies the transmission power parameters based on LOS estimation information. For transmission power allocation, to control cell size and reduce inter-BSS interference while maintaining coverage within the deployment area, existing RRM algorithms and techniques can adjust AP transmission power based on the RSSI of adjacent STAs (e.g., adjacent APs). However, as discussed above with respect to box 602, in one embodiment, LOS information affects the likelihood of conflicts between adjacent STAs (e.g., between adjacent APs).

[0056] In an embodiment, the RRM module can improve transmission power allocation by incorporating LOS estimation information. For example, path loss estimation can be improved by using the same equations used for channelization:

[0057] PL_Enhanced = PL_Measured + (LOS_Estimate - 0.5) * Adjustment coefficient

[0058] In this embodiment, PL_Enhanced represents the enhanced path loss incorporated into the LOS estimation information, PL_Enhanced represents the measured path loss (e.g., based on NDP frame transmission or any other suitable technique), and LOS_Estimate represents the LOS estimation information (e.g., in the context of...). Figure 5 (As provided in the LOS likelihood element 500 shown). For the channelization discussed in box 602 above, the RRM module can use the enhanced path loss information to determine the appropriate transmission power parameters.

[0059] At box 606, the RRM module modifies roaming parameters based on LOS information. For example, an AP can use RRM to guide a STA (e.g., a user equipment) to a nearby AP. The AP can provide the STA with a list of candidate APs to consider. In embodiments, the AP can further prioritize candidate APs based on various criteria. These criteria may include the RSSI of neighboring APs, ranging estimates (e.g., from FTM or other suitable techniques), and other suitable criteria. In embodiments, LOS estimation information between the source AP and APs adjacent to the source AP can be used to improve roaming, including improving the prioritization of candidate APs for roaming. In embodiments, neighboring APs with the same RSSI can be inversely adjusted for the LOS of the source AP. For example, assuming the LOS from a roaming candidate AP to the STA is stronger than the LOS from the current AP to a roaming candidate AP, then a neighboring AP with a relatively low RSSI and weak LOS is likely a strong roaming candidate.

[0060] Furthermore, ranging information between the STA and candidate APs can be used to improve roaming. For example, an AP can identify whether a roaming STA is stationary or moving by observing ranging information and through other means. If the STA is likely stationary and the candidate AP has a high LOS estimate (e.g., the candidate AP may be within the STA's LOS), then the priority of a neighboring AP may be higher than if that neighboring AP had no LOS estimate.

[0061] However, if the STA is likely mobile, a candidate AP with a high LOS estimate (e.g., the STA may currently be within the candidate AP's LOS) may have a lower priority than another candidate AP with a similar RSSI to the STA but a lower LOS estimate (e.g., not currently within the LOS). In other words, if the STA is likely mobile, a currently connected AP can prioritize roaming APs that are not currently within the STA's LOS over another AP with the same RSSI but currently within the STA's LOS.

[0062] This is because, assuming the RSSI between the STA and two candidate APs (one within the STA's LOS and the other outside the STA's LOS) is approximately equal, then the candidate AP without LOS is likely to be more physically close to the STA (i.e., as stated above). Figure 2(As discussed). Because the LOS can change as the STA moves (or other objects between the STA and AP move), a communication link between the STA and an AP that is not currently in the LOS may be more secure than a communication link between the STA and an AP that is currently in the LOS. A longer physical distance between a candidate AP currently in the LOS and the STA can be detrimental to link quality, while a closer distance to a candidate AP that is not currently in the LOS means that communication is likely to remain strong after movement is restricted (e.g., the candidate AP is no longer in the STA's LOS, meaning communication is unlikely to be impaired as the STA moves). Furthermore, since the candidate AP in the LOS is farther from the STA, there may be another candidate AP closer to the STA.

[0063] The present disclosure references various embodiments. However, the scope of this disclosure is not limited to the specifically described embodiments. Rather, any combination of the described features and elements is considered to implement and practice the considered embodiments, regardless of whether it is associated with different embodiments. Furthermore, when elements of an embodiment are described in the form of "at least one of A and B," it should be understood that embodiments including only element A, only element B, and including both element A and element B are all considered. Moreover, while some embodiments disclosed herein may achieve advantages over other possible solutions or over the prior art, whether a given embodiment achieves a particular advantage does not limit the scope of this disclosure. Therefore, the aspects, features, embodiments, and advantages disclosed herein are illustrative only and should not be considered elements or limitations of the claims unless expressly stated in the claims. Similarly, references to "this application" should not be construed as a generalization of any inventive subject matter disclosed herein and should not be considered elements or limitations of the claims unless expressly stated in the claims.

[0064] As those skilled in the art will recognize, the embodiments disclosed herein can be embodied as systems, methods, or computer program products. Therefore, the various embodiments can take the form of entirely hardware embodiments, entirely software embodiments (including firmware, resident software, microcode, etc.), or embodiments combining software and hardware aspects, which are generally referred to herein as “circuit,” “module,” or “system.” Furthermore, the various embodiments can take the form of computer program products contained in one or more computer-readable media having computer-readable program code.

[0065] The program code contained on a computer-readable medium can be transmitted using any suitable medium, including but not limited to wireless, wired, optical fiber, RF, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. The computer program code performing the operations of the various embodiments of this disclosure can be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including object-oriented programming languages ​​(such as Java, Smalltalk, C++, etc.) and traditional procedural programming languages ​​(such as the "C" programming language or similar programming languages). The program code can be executed entirely on the user's computer, partially on the user's computer, as a standalone software package partially on the user's computer and partially on a remote computer, or entirely on a remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer and the user's computer can be connected via any type of network (any type of network includes a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN)), or the remote computer can be connected to an external computer (e.g., via the Internet provided by an Internet service provider).

[0066] Various aspects of this disclosure are described with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to embodiments set forth in this disclosure. It should be understood that each block in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions / actions specified in the blocks of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams.

[0067] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable medium that can direct a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus or other device to operate in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable medium produce an article of art including instructions that perform the functions / actions specified in the flowchart diagrams and / or block diagrams.

[0068] Computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus or other equipment to produce a series of operational steps that are executed on the computer, other programmable apparatus or other equipment, thereby generating a process implemented by the computer, such that the instructions that are executed on the computer, other programmable data processing apparatus or other equipment provide a process for the implementation of a function / action specified within a flowchart diagram and / or block diagram.

[0069] The flowcharts and block diagrams in the accompanying drawings illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments. In this regard, each box in a flowchart or block diagram may represent a module, segment, or portion of code containing one or more executable instructions that implement one or more specific logical functions. It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions mentioned in the boxes may appear in a different order than that shown in the drawings. For example, depending on the functions involved, two boxes shown consecutively may actually be executed substantially simultaneously, or these boxes may sometimes be executed in reverse order. It should also be noted that each box in the block diagrams and / or flowcharts, and combinations of boxes in the block diagrams and / or flowcharts, may be implemented by a hardware-based dedicated system that performs a specific function or action, or by a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions.

[0070] In view of the foregoing, the scope of this disclosure is defined by the claims.

[0071] Examples of this disclosure are set forth in the following numbered clauses.

[0072] 1. A method comprising:

[0073] One or more radio resource management (RRM) input parameters are determined at the first wireless access point (AP), wherein the one or more RRM input parameters are determined based on line-of-sight (LOS) estimation between two wireless stations (STAs);

[0074] Multiple RRM values ​​are generated based on the one or more RRM input parameters; and

[0075] The RRM value is used to establish a wireless connection between the first STA and the first AP.

[0076] 2. The method according to Clause 1, wherein the one or more RRM input parameters include enhanced path loss estimates associated with the two STAs.

[0077] 3. The method according to Clause 2, wherein the enhanced path loss estimation includes a measured path loss estimate modified based on the LOS estimation.

[0078] 4. The method according to Clause 3, wherein the two STAs comprise a second AP and a first AP, and wherein the measured path loss estimate is determined based on Neighbor Discovery Protocol (NDP) frames exchanged between the first AP and the second AP.

[0079] 5. The method described in Clause 1 further includes:

[0080] The LOS estimate is received at the first AP as part of a network message, and the LOS estimate includes the log-likelihood ratio of the LOS associated with the two STAs.

[0081] 6. The method according to Clause 1, wherein the two STAs include a second AP and a first AP, and wherein the plurality of RRM values ​​include at least one of channel allocation between the first AP and the second AP or transmission power allocation between the first AP and the second AP.

[0082] 7. The method according to Clause 6, wherein the plurality of RRM values ​​are generated based on the LOS estimate to reduce radio transmission conflicts between a first basic service set (BSS) corresponding to the first AP and a second BSS corresponding to the second AP.

[0083] 8. The method according to Clause 1, wherein the first STA includes a first user equipment, and the method further includes:

[0084] The first roaming priority of the first user equipment and the second AP is determined based on the LOS estimate between the second AP and the first user equipment; and

[0085] The second roaming priority of the first user equipment and the third AP is determined based on the LOS estimate between the third AP and the first user equipment.

[0086] 9. The method according to Clause 8, wherein the LOS estimate between the first user equipment and the second AP is greater than the LOS estimate between the first user equipment and the third AP, and wherein the first roaming priority is higher than the second roaming priority.

[0087] 10. The method according to Clause 8, wherein the LOS estimate between the first user equipment and the second AP is greater than the LOS estimate between the first user equipment and the third AP, wherein the first user equipment estimate is movable, and wherein the first roaming priority and the second roaming priority are inversely adjusted based on the LOS estimate such that the second roaming priority is higher than the first roaming priority.

[0088] 11. The method according to Clause 1 further includes:

[0089] The measured first path loss corresponding to the two STAs is compared with the estimated second path loss associated with the LOS path loss model; and

[0090] The trust level associated with the LOS estimate is modified based on a comparison of the first path loss and the second path loss, wherein the RRM input parameters are determined at least in part based on the modified trust level.

[0091] 12. The first wireless access point (AP), comprising:

[0092] Processor; and

[0093] A memory storing a program that performs operations when executed on the processor, the operations including:

[0094] One or more radio resource management (RRM) input parameters are determined at the AP, wherein the one or more RRM input parameters are determined based on line-of-sight (LOS) estimates between two radio stations (STAs);

[0095] Multiple RRM values ​​are generated based on the one or more RRM input parameters; and

[0096] The RRM value is used to establish a wireless connection between the first STA and the AP.

[0097] 13. The AP as described in Clause 12, wherein the one or more RRM input parameters include an enhanced path loss estimate associated with the two STAs.

[0098] 14. The AP as described in Clause 13, wherein the enhanced path loss estimation includes a measured path loss estimate modified based on the LOS estimate, wherein the two STAs include a second AP and the first AP, and wherein the measured path loss estimate is determined based on Neighbor Discovery Protocol (NDP) frames exchanged between the first AP and the second AP.

[0099] 15. The AP as described in Clause 12, wherein the two STAs comprise a second AP and a first AP, and wherein the plurality of RRM values ​​are generated based on the LOS estimate to reduce radio transmission conflicts between a first basic service set (BSS) corresponding to the first AP and a second BSS corresponding to the second AP.

[0100] 16. The AP as described in Clause 12, wherein the first STA includes a first user equipment, and the operation further includes:

[0101] The first roaming priority of the first user equipment and the second AP is determined based on the LOS estimate between the second AP and the first user equipment; and

[0102] The second roaming priority of the first user equipment and the third AP is determined based on the LOS estimate between the third AP and the first user equipment.

[0103] Wherein, the LOS estimate between the first user equipment and the second AP is greater than the LOS estimate between the first user equipment and the third AP, wherein the first user equipment estimate is movable, and wherein the first roaming priority and the second roaming priority are inversely adjusted based on the LOS estimate, such that the second roaming priority is higher than the first roaming priority.

[0104] 17. A non-transitory computer program product, comprising:

[0105] A computer-readable storage medium having computer-readable program code that can be executed by one or more computer processors to perform operations, said operations including:

[0106] One or more radio resource management (RRM) input parameters are determined at the first wireless access point (AP), wherein the one or more RRM input parameters are determined based on line-of-sight (LOS) estimation between two wireless stations (STAs);

[0107] Generate multiple RRM values ​​based on the one or more RRM input parameters; and

[0108] The RRM value is used to establish a wireless connection between the first STA and the first AP.

[0109] 18. The computer program product according to Clause 17, wherein the one or more RRM input parameters include an enhanced path loss estimate associated with the two STAs.

[0110] 19. The computer program product according to Clause 17, wherein the two STAs comprise a second AP and a first AP, and wherein the plurality of RRM values ​​are generated based on the LOS estimate to reduce radio transmission conflicts between a first basic service set (BSS) corresponding to the first AP and a second BSS corresponding to the second AP.

[0111] 20. The computer program product according to Clause 17, wherein the first STA includes a first user equipment, and the operation further includes:

[0112] The first roaming priority of the first user equipment and the second AP is determined based on the LOS estimate between the second AP and the first user equipment; and

[0113] A second roaming priority for the first user equipment and the third AP is determined based on the LOS estimate between the third AP and the first user equipment, wherein the LOS estimate between the first user equipment and the second AP is greater than the LOS estimate between the first user equipment and the third AP, wherein the first user equipment estimate is movable, and wherein the first roaming priority and the second roaming priority are inversely adjusted based on the LOS estimate such that the second roaming priority is higher than the first roaming priority.

Claims

1. A method for wireless communication, comprising: One or more radio resource management (RRM) input parameters are determined at the first wireless access point (AP), wherein the one or more RRM input parameters are determined based on line-of-sight (LOS) estimation between two wireless stations (STAs); Generate multiple RRM values ​​based on the one or more RRM input parameters; A wireless connection is established between the first STA and the first AP using the RRM value; The measured first path loss corresponding to the two STAs is compared with the estimated second path loss associated with the LOS path loss model; and The trust level associated with the LOS estimate is modified based on a comparison of the first path loss and the second path loss, wherein the RRM input parameters are determined at least in part based on the modified trust level. Wherein, the first STA includes a first user equipment, and the method further includes: The first roaming priority of the first user equipment and the second AP is determined based on the LOS estimate between the second AP and the first user equipment; and The second roaming priority of the first user equipment and the third AP is determined based on the LOS estimate between the third AP and the first user equipment.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The one or more RRM input parameters include enhanced path loss estimates associated with the two STAs.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein, The enhanced path loss estimation includes a measured path loss estimate modified based on the LOS estimation.

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein, The two STAs include a second AP and a first AP, and the measured path loss estimate is determined based on neighbor discovery protocol (NDP) frames exchanged between the first AP and the second AP.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising: The LOS estimate is received at the first AP as part of a network message, and the LOS estimate includes the log-likelihood ratio of the LOS associated with the two STAs.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The two STAs include a second AP and a first AP, and wherein the plurality of RRM values ​​include at least one of channel allocation between the first AP and the second AP or transmission power allocation between the first AP and the second AP.

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein, Based on the LOS estimation, the plurality of RRM values ​​are generated to reduce radio transmission conflicts between the first basic service set (BSS) corresponding to the first AP and the second BSS corresponding to the second AP.

8. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The LOS estimate between the first user equipment and the second AP is greater than the LOS estimate between the first user equipment and the third AP, wherein the first roaming priority is higher than the second roaming priority.

9. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The LOS estimate between the first user equipment and the second AP is greater than the LOS estimate between the first user equipment and the third AP, wherein the first user equipment is estimated to be mobile, and wherein the first roaming priority and the second roaming priority are inversely adjusted based on the LOS estimate such that the second roaming priority is higher than the first roaming priority.

10. The first wireless access point (AP), comprising: processor; as well as The memory stores a program that, when executed by the processor, performs operations including the following: One or more radio resource management (RRM) input parameters are determined at the AP, wherein the one or more RRM input parameters are determined based on line-of-sight (LOS) estimation between two radio stations (STAs); Generate multiple RRM values ​​based on the one or more RRM input parameters; A wireless connection is established between the first STA and the AP using the RRM value; The measured first path loss corresponding to the two STAs is compared with the estimated second path loss associated with the LOS path loss model; and The trust level associated with the LOS estimate is modified based on a comparison of the first path loss and the second path loss, wherein the RRM input parameters are determined at least in part based on the modified trust level, wherein the first STA includes a first user equipment, and the AP is further configured to: The first roaming priority of the first user equipment and the second AP is determined based on the LOS estimate between the second AP and the first user equipment; and The second roaming priority of the first user equipment and the third AP is determined based on the LOS estimate between the third AP and the first user equipment.

11. The AP according to claim 10, wherein, The one or more RRM input parameters include enhanced path loss estimates associated with the two STAs.

12. The AP according to claim 11, wherein, The enhanced path loss estimation includes a measured path loss estimate modified based on the LOS estimation.

13. The AP according to claim 12, wherein, The two STAs include a second AP and a first AP, and the measured path loss estimate is determined based on neighbor discovery protocol (NDP) frames exchanged between the first AP and the second AP.

14. The AP according to any one of claims 10 to 13, further configured as follows: The LOS estimate is received at the first AP as part of a network message, and the LOS estimate includes the log-likelihood ratio of the LOS associated with the two STAs.

15. The AP according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein, The two STAs include a second AP and a first AP, and wherein the plurality of RRM values ​​include at least one of channel allocation between the first AP and the second AP or transmission power allocation between the first AP and the second AP.

16. The AP according to claim 15, wherein, Based on the LOS estimation, the plurality of RRM values ​​are generated to reduce radio transmission conflicts between the first basic service set (BSS) corresponding to the first AP and the second BSS corresponding to the second AP.

17. The AP according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein, The two STAs include a second AP and a first AP, and wherein, based on the LOS estimate, the plurality of RRM values ​​are generated to reduce radio transmission conflicts between a first basic service set (BSS) corresponding to the first AP and a second BSS corresponding to the second AP.

18. The AP according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein, The LOS estimate between the first user equipment and the second AP is greater than the LOS estimate between the first user equipment and the third AP, wherein the first roaming priority is higher than the second roaming priority.

19. The AP according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein, The LOS estimate between the first user equipment and the second AP is greater than the LOS estimate between the first user equipment and the third AP, wherein the first user equipment is estimated to be mobile, and wherein the first roaming priority and the second roaming priority are inversely adjusted based on the LOS estimate such that the second roaming priority is higher than the first roaming priority.

20. A computer-readable medium having computer-readable program code, said computer-readable program code being executable by one or more computer processors to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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