Range Extender (RE) placement in Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs) using Fine Timing Measurement (FTM) procedures

Abstract

The present disclosure provides methods, apparatuses, and systems for placing a range extender (RE) based on a distance between the RE and an access point (AP). The RE can determine the distance between the RE and the AP based on round trip timing (RTT) information. In some aspects, the RE can exchange fine timing measurement (FTM) frames with the AP. The RE can determine the distance between itself and the AP based on the RTT information. Based on the distance between the RE and the AP, the RE can provide a coarse placement indicator for improving the location of the RE. The RE can also determine a signal strength or channel state information (CSI) relative to the AP. Based on the signal strength or the CSI, the RE can provide a fine placement indicator that indicates that the RE can be placed closer to or farther away from the AP or remain in its current location.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This patent application claims priority to U.S. nonprovisional patent application No. 17 / 013,436, filed September 4, 2020, entitled “RANGE EXTENDER(RE) PLACEMENTUSING FINE TIMING MEASUREMENT(FTM) PROCEDURE IN A WIRELESS LOCAL AREA NETWORK(WLAN),” which has been assigned to the assignee of this application. The disclosure of that earlier application is considered part of this patent application and is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to the field of wireless communications, and more particularly to location-aware guidance using fine timing measurement (FTM) frames in a wireless local area network (WLAN).

[0004] Related technical descriptions

[0005] A Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) can be formed by one or more wireless access points (APs) that provide a shared wireless communication medium for use by multiple client devices (also known as wireless stations (STAs)). The basic building block of a WLAN conforming to the IEEE 802.11 family of standards is the Basic Service Set (BSS) managed by the AP. Each BSS is identified by a Service Set Identifier (SSID) advertised by the AP. The AP periodically broadcasts beacon frames to enable other STAs within its wireless range to establish or maintain a communication link with the WLAN.

[0006] Adding a range extender (RE) to a WLAN can extend the coverage area of ​​an access point (AP). When an RE is added to a WLAN, it can provide user feedback (such as flashing lights) suggesting where to place the RE relative to the AP. The location of the RE can affect how effectively it extends the coverage area.

[0007] Overview

[0008] The systems, methods, and apparatus disclosed herein each have several innovative aspects, and no single aspect is solely responsible for the desired properties disclosed herein.

[0009] An innovative aspect of the subject matter described in this disclosure can be implemented in a method for wireless communication performed by a device of a first access point (AP) in a wireless local area network (WLAN). The method may include determining whether a WLAN device is capable of exchanging fine timing management (FTM) frames. The method may include: in response to determining that the WLAN device is capable of exchanging FTM frames, determining a first distance from the first AP to the WLAN device based at least in part on FTM frames exchanged with the WLAN device; and obtaining an indication of a second distance between a second AP and the WLAN device. The method may also include: in response to determining that the WLAN device is capable of exchanging FTM frames, determining the location of the WLAN device based at least in part on the first distance and the second distance; and guiding the WLAN device to the second AP based at least in part on the location of the WLAN device.

[0010] In some respects, this location can be the relative position of the WLAN device with respect to the first AP and the second AP.

[0011] In some aspects, the method may include: determining the signal strength of a signal received from a WLAN device; and determining that the signal strength is less than a signal strength threshold. A method for determining whether a WLAN device is capable of exchanging FTM frames may respond to determining that the signal strength is less than the signal strength threshold.

[0012] In some respects, methods for determining whether a WLAN device is capable of exchanging FTM frames may include obtaining capability elements from the WLAN device that indicate its ability to exchange FTM frames.

[0013] In some aspects, a method for determining a first distance based at least in part on FTM frames exchanged with a WLAN device may include: outputting an FTM frame for transmission to the WLAN device; and obtaining an FTM acknowledgment (ACK) associated with the FTM frame from the WLAN device. Determining the first distance based at least in part on FTM frames exchanged with the WLAN device may further include: determining a round-trip time (RTT) based at least in part on the FTM frame and the FTM ACK; and determining the first distance based at least in part on the RTT.

[0014] In some aspects, methods for guiding WLAN devices may include selecting guidance information based at least in part on the location of the WLAN device, wherein the guidance information indicates whether the WLAN device should be guided at least in part based on the location. The method may include determining, at least in part based on the guidance information, whether to guide the WLAN device to a second access point (AP).

[0015] In some respects, methods for obtaining an indication of a second distance may include receiving an FTM ranging report indicating the second distance.

[0016] In some aspects, the method may also include: outputting an FTM request for transmission to a WLAN device; obtaining an FTM ACK from the WLAN device; and exchanging an FTM frame with the WLAN device in response to obtaining the FTM ACK.

[0017] In some aspects, the method may also include obtaining distance information from the second AP, including an indication of the second distance.

[0018] In some aspects, the method may also include obtaining distance information from other APs in the WLAN, which indicates additional distances from the other APs to the WLAN device.

[0019] In some aspects, the method may further include: determining a third distance from the first AP to the WLAN device based at least in part on additional FTM frames exchanged with the WLAN device; and directing the WLAN device from a first frequency band of the first AP to a second frequency band of the first AP based at least in part on the third distance.

[0020] In some aspects, the method may further include: after guiding the WLAN device, determining the signal strength of the communication received from the WLAN device; determining that the signal strength is greater than a signal strength threshold; and updating the guidance information to indicate the location and the signal strength.

[0021] Another innovative aspect of the subject matter described in this disclosure can be implemented in a method for wireless communication performed by a device of an access point (AP) in a WLAN. The method may include determining whether the WLAN device is capable of exchanging FTM frames. The method may include: in response to determining that the WLAN device is capable of exchanging FTM frames, determining a distance from the AP to the WLAN device based at least in part on FTM frames exchanged with the WLAN device. The method may also include: in response to determining that the WLAN device is capable of exchanging FTM frames, directing the WLAN device from a first frequency band of the AP to a second frequency band of the AP based at least in part on the distance.

[0022] In some aspects, the method may further include: determining the signal strength of a signal received from a WLAN device, and determining that the signal strength is less than a signal strength threshold, wherein determining whether the WLAN device is capable of exchanging FTM frames is performed in response to determining that the signal strength is less than the signal strength threshold.

[0023] In some aspects, the method may further include: determining that the AP has a wireless association with a WLAN device via a first frequency band; and determining, at least in part, based on the distance, that the WLAN device is outside a first range of the AP's first frequency band.

[0024] In some aspects, the method may also include determining a second range of the WLAN in the second frequency band.

[0025] In some aspects, the method may also include outputting an FTM frame for transmission to a WLAN device, and obtaining an FTM ACK from the WLAN device.

[0026] In some aspects, methods for guiding WLAN devices may include: selecting guidance information based at least in part on the distance from the AP to the WLAN device; and determining, at least in part on the guidance information, to guide the WLAN device to a second frequency band.

[0027] In some aspects, the method may further include: after guiding the WLAN device, determining the signal strength of the communication received from the WLAN device; determining that the signal strength is greater than a signal strength threshold; and updating the guidance information to indicate the distance and the signal strength.

[0028] Another innovative aspect of the subject matter described in this disclosure can be performed by means of a first access point (AP) for wireless communication. The means may include a processor configured to determine whether WLAN devices of a WLAN are capable of exchanging FTM frames. The processor may be configured to: in response to the determination that the WLAN devices are capable of exchanging FTM frames, determine a first distance from the first AP to the WLAN devices based at least in part on FTM frames exchanged with the WLAN devices; obtain an indication of a second distance between the second AP and the WLAN devices; and determine the location of the WLAN devices based at least in part on the first distance and the second distance. The means may also include an interface configured to output a message for directing the WLAN devices to the second AP based at least in part on the location of the WLAN devices.

[0029] In some respects, the processor can also be configured to: determine the signal strength of a signal received from a WLAN device; and determine that the signal strength is less than a signal strength threshold. Determining whether the WLAN device is capable of exchanging FTM frames can be performed in response to determining that the signal strength is less than the signal strength threshold.

[0030] In some respects, the processor is further configured to obtain an indication of a second distance from the FTM ranging report.

[0031] In some aspects, the interface can be further configured to output FTM frames for transmission to a WLAN device, and to obtain an FTM ACK from the WLAN device. The processor can be further configured to determine the RTT based on the FTM frame and the FTM ACK, and to determine a first distance based on the RTT.

[0032] In some aspects, the processor may be further configured to select guidance information based at least in part on the location of the WLAN device, wherein the guidance information indicates whether the WLAN device should be guided at least in part based on the location. The processor may also be configured to determine, at least in part based on the guidance information, to guide the WLAN device to a second AP.

[0033] In some respects, the processor may be further configured to: determine that the location is outside a first coverage area of ​​a first frequency band of the first AP and within a second coverage area of ​​a second frequency band of the first AP; and to direct the WLAN device from the first frequency band of the first AP to the second frequency band of the first AP based at least in part on the location.

[0034] In some respects, the processor may be further configured to: determine a third distance from the first AP to the WLAN device based at least in part on additional FTM frames exchanged with the WLAN device; and to direct the WLAN device from a first frequency band of the first AP to a second frequency band of the first AP based at least in part on the third distance.

[0035] Another innovative aspect of the subject matter described in this disclosure can be performed by an access point (AP) for wireless communication. The device may include a processor configured to determine whether WLAN devices of a WLAN are capable of exchanging FTM frames. The processor may also be configured to: determine, in response to the determination that the WLAN devices are capable of exchanging FTM frames, at least in part based on FTM frames exchanged with the WLAN devices; and to direct the WLAN devices from a first frequency band of the AP to a second frequency band of the AP, at least in part based on the distance.

[0036] In some respects, the processor can be further configured to: determine the signal strength of a signal received from a WLAN device; and determine that the signal strength is less than a signal strength threshold. Determining whether the WLAN device is capable of exchanging FTM frames can be performed in response to determining that the signal strength is less than the signal strength threshold.

[0037] In some respects, the processor may be further configured to: determine that the AP has a wireless association with a WLAN device via a first frequency band; and determine, at least in part, based on the distance, that the WLAN device is outside a first coverage area of ​​the AP's first frequency band.

[0038] In some respects, the processor may be further configured to select guidance information based at least in part on the distance of the WLAN device; and to determine, at least in part on the guidance information, to guide the WLAN device to the second frequency band.

[0039] Another innovative aspect of the subject matter described in this disclosure can be implemented in a method for wireless communication in a WLAN performed by a device of a first WLAN. The method may include determining a first distance from the first WLAN device to the second WLAN device based at least in part on FTM frames exchanged with the second WLAN device. The method may include determining, at least in part on the first distance, whether the first WLAN device is within range of the second WLAN device. The method may include determining a signal strength associated with the second WLAN device in response to the second WLAN device being within that distance range. The method may include comparing the signal strength to one or more signal strength thresholds. The method may also include providing a fine-grained placement indicator based on the comparison.

[0040] In some aspects, the method of comparing the signal strength with one or more signal strength thresholds may include determining that the signal strength is less than a first signal strength threshold among the one or more signal strength thresholds. The first signal strength threshold may indicate the minimum signal strength within the distance range.

[0041] In some aspects, the method of providing a fine placement indicator may include providing a fine placement indicator in response to determining that the signal strength is less than the first signal strength threshold, indicating that the first WLAN device should be moved closer to the second WLAN device.

[0042] In some aspects, the method of comparing the signal strength with one or more signal strength thresholds may include determining that the signal strength is greater than a second signal strength threshold of the one or more signal strength thresholds, the second signal strength threshold indicating the maximum signal strength over the distance range.

[0043] In some aspects, the method of providing a fine placement indicator may include providing a fine placement indicator in response to determining that the signal strength is greater than the second signal strength threshold, indicating that the first WLAN device should be moved further away from the second WLAN device.

[0044] In some aspects, the method of comparing the signal strength with one or more signal strength thresholds may include determining that the signal strength is greater than or equal to a first signal strength threshold among the one or more signal strength thresholds, the first signal strength threshold indicating the minimum signal strength within the distance range. Comparing the signal strength with one or more signal strength thresholds may also include determining that the signal strength is less than or equal to a second signal strength threshold among the one or more signal strength thresholds, the second signal strength threshold indicating the maximum signal strength within the distance range.

[0045] In some aspects, the method of providing a fine placement indicator may include providing a fine placement indicator in response to determining that the signal strength is greater than or equal to the first signal strength threshold and the signal strength is less than or equal to the second signal strength threshold, indicating that the first WLAN device should remain in its current position.

[0046] In some aspects, the method may include determining one or more additional signal strengths associated with the second WLAN device in response to providing a fine placement indicator instructing the first WLAN device to remain in its current location. The method may also include updating distance information based on the one or more additional signal strengths.

[0047] In some aspects, the method may include determining whether a first distance is greater than the distance range in response to the second WLAN device not being within the distance range of the first WLAN device. The method may also include providing a coarse placement indicator for moving the first WLAN device closer to the second WLAN device in response to determining that the first distance is greater than the distance range.

[0048] In some aspects, the method may include determining whether a first distance is less than the distance range in response to the first WLAN device not being within the distance range of the second WLAN device. The method may also include providing a rough placement indicator for moving the first WLAN device further away from the second WLAN device in response to determining that the first distance is less than the distance range.

[0049] In some aspects, the method may include: in response to the first WLAN device being within a distance range of the second WLAN device, providing a coarse placement indicator in response to determining a first distance within that distance range to indicate that the first WLAN device should remain in its current position.

[0050] In some aspects, a method for determining a first distance from a first WLAN device to a second WLAN device, at least in part based on FTM frames exchanged with a second WLAN device, may include outputting a first FTM frame for transmission to the second WLAN device. The method may include obtaining a second FTM frame from the second WLAN device, and determining an RTT based on the first and second FTM frames. The method may also include determining the first distance based on the RTT.

[0051] In some aspects, methods for determining the signal strength associated with a second WLAN device may include determining a Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) based on signals received from the second WLAN device.

[0052] In some respects, this distance range may include the range of distances between the first WLAN device and the second WLAN device.

[0053] Another innovative aspect of the subject matter described in this disclosure can be implemented in a method of wireless communication in a WLAN performed by means of a first WLAN device. The method may include determining a first distance from the first WLAN device to the second WLAN device based at least in part on FTM frames exchanged with a second WLAN device. The method may include determining, at least in part on the first distance, whether the first WLAN device is within range of the second WLAN device. The method may include determining channel state information (CSI) associated with the second WLAN device in response to the second WLAN device being within that distance range. The method may include comparing the CSI with one or more CSI thresholds. The method may include providing a fine-grained placement indicator based on the comparison.

[0054] In some aspects, the method of comparing the CSI with one or more CSI thresholds may include determining that the CSI is less than a first CSI threshold among the one or more CSI thresholds. The first CSI threshold may indicate one or more of scattering, fading, and power attenuation over the distance range.

[0055] In some respects, the method of providing a fine placement indicator includes providing a fine placement indicator that indicates moving the first WLAN device closer to the second WLAN device in response to determining that the CSI is less than the first CSI threshold.

[0056] In some aspects, the method of comparing the CSI with one or more CSI thresholds may include determining that the CSI is greater than a second CSI threshold among the one or more CSI thresholds. The second CSI threshold may indicate one or more of scattering, fading, and power attenuation over the distance range.

[0057] In some aspects, the method of providing a fine placement indicator may include providing a fine placement indicator in response to determining that the CSI is greater than the second CSI threshold, indicating that the first WLAN device should be moved further away from the second WLAN device.

[0058] In some aspects, a method for comparing the CSI to one or more CSI thresholds may include determining that the CSI is greater than or equal to a first CSI threshold among the one or more CSI thresholds. The first CSI threshold may indicate the minimum CSI within the distance range. The method may also include determining that the CSI is less than or equal to a second CSI threshold among the one or more CSI thresholds. The second CSI threshold may indicate the maximum CSI within the distance range.

[0059] In some aspects, the method of providing a fine placement indicator may include providing a fine placement indicator in response to determining that the CSI is greater than or equal to the first CSI threshold and the CSI is less than or equal to the second CSI threshold, indicating that the first WLAN device should remain in its current position.

[0060] Another inventive aspect of the subject matter described in this disclosure can be performed by means of a first WLAN device for wireless communication. The means may include one or more interfaces for communicating via the WLAN. The means may include one or more processors configured to determine a first distance from the first WLAN device to the second WLAN device, at least in part, based on FTM frames exchanged with the second WLAN device via the one or more interfaces. The one or more processors may be configured to determine, at least in part, whether the first WLAN device is within range of the second WLAN device, based on the first distance. The one or more processors may also be configured to: determine a signal strength associated with the second WLAN device in response to the second WLAN device being within that distance; and compare the signal strength with one or more signal strength thresholds. The one or more processors may also be configured to output a fine placement indicator based on the comparison.

[0061] In some aspects, the one or more processors may be configured to compare the signal strength with one or more signal strength thresholds, and the one or more processors may be configured to determine that the signal strength is less than a first signal strength threshold among the one or more signal strength thresholds. The first signal strength threshold may indicate the minimum signal strength within the distance range.

[0062] In some aspects, the one or more processors may be configured to provide a fine placement indicator, and the one or more processors may be configured to provide a fine placement indicator indicating that the first WLAN device should be moved closer to the second WLAN device in response to a determination that the signal strength is less than the first signal strength threshold.

[0063] In some aspects, the one or more processors may be configured to compare the signal strength with one or more signal strength thresholds, and the one or more processors may be configured to determine that the signal strength is greater than a second signal strength threshold among the one or more signal strength thresholds. The second signal strength threshold may indicate the maximum signal strength within the distance range.

[0064] In some respects, the one or more processors may be configured to provide a fine placement indicator, and the one or more processors may be configured to provide a fine placement indicator indicating that the first WLAN device should be moved further away from the second WLAN device in response to a determination that the signal strength is greater than the second signal strength threshold.

[0065] In some aspects, the one or more processors may be configured to compare the signal strength with one or more signal strength thresholds, and the one or more processors may be configured to determine that the signal strength is greater than or equal to a first signal strength threshold among the one or more signal strength thresholds, the first signal strength threshold indicating the minimum signal strength within the distance range. The one or more processors may be configured to determine that the signal strength is less than or equal to a second signal strength threshold among the one or more signal strength thresholds. The second signal strength threshold may indicate the maximum signal strength within the distance range.

[0066] In some aspects, the one or more processors may be configured to provide a fine placement indicator, and the one or more processors may be configured to provide a fine placement indicator in response to determining that the signal strength is greater than or equal to the first signal strength threshold and the signal strength is less than or equal to the second signal strength threshold, indicating that the first WLAN device should remain in its current position.

[0067] Another innovative aspect of the subject matter described in this disclosure can be performed by a wireless communication device for wireless communication of a first WLAN device. This wireless communication device of the first WLAN may include one or more interfaces for communication via the WLAN and one or more processors. The device may include one or more processors configured to determine a first distance from the first WLAN device to the second WLAN device based at least in part on FTM frames exchanged with the second WLAN device via the one or more interfaces. The one or more processors may be configured to: determine whether the first WLAN device is within range of the second WLAN device based at least in part on the first distance; and determine a CSI associated with the second WLAN device in response to the second WLAN device being within that distance range. The one or more processors may be configured to: compare the CSI with one or more CSI thresholds; and output a fine placement indicator based on the comparison.

[0068] In some aspects, the CSI may include a receiver CSI (CSIR) and a transmitter CSI (CSIT), and the one or more processors may be configured to determine the difference between CSIT and CSIR. Comparison of the CSI with one or more CSI thresholds may include comparing the difference between CSIT and CSIR with the one or more CSI thresholds.

[0069] Another innovative aspect of the subject matter described in this disclosure can be implemented as a computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform any of the methods described above.

[0070] Another innovative aspect of the subject matter described in this disclosure can be implemented as a system comprising means for implementing any of the methods described above.

[0071] Details of one or more aspects of the subject matter described in this disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the following description. Other features, aspects, and advantages will become apparent from this description, the drawings, and the claims. It should be noted that the relative dimensions in the following drawings may not be drawn to scale. Brief description of the attached diagram

[0073] Figure 1 A system diagram of an example wireless communication network is shown.

[0074] Figure 2 A timing diagram illustrating an example process used to perform a ranging operation is shown.

[0075] Figure 3 A system diagram of an example wireless local area network (WLAN) is shown, which includes access points (APs) configured to perform location-aware guidance based on timing information obtained from slave stations (STAs).

[0076] Figure 4 A system diagram of an example WLAN including an AP configured to direct STAs from the AP's first frequency band to the AP's second frequency band is shown.

[0077] Figure 5 A system diagram of an example WLAN is shown, including an AP that performs guidance operations in response to signal information.

[0078] Figure 6 Describe and explain the process of an example operation performed by the AP for location-aware guidance.

[0079] Figure 7 The process of performing an example operation for location-aware band guidance by the AP device is described and explained.

[0080] Figure 8 The process is described to illustrate an example operation of performing position-aware guidance using a STA with fine timing measurement (FTM) capability.

[0081] Figure 9 The process is described and explained as an example operation for performing location-aware guidance in a WLAN that includes STAs with and without FTM capability.

[0082] Figure 10 A system diagram of an example WLAN is shown, which includes a RE configured to perform operations for placing the RE based on timing information obtained from the AP.

[0083] Figure 11 A system diagram of an example WLAN is shown, which includes a RE configured to perform operations for fine placement based on signal strength information obtained from the AP.

[0084] Figure 12 The process of placing REs in the environment using timing information is described and explained by a device of the first WLAN device.

[0085] Figure 13 The process of placing REs in the environment using timing information is described and explained by a device of the first WLAN device.

[0086] Figure 14 The process is described to illustrate an example operation for roughly placing a RE in a WLAN that may contain APs with FTM capability.

[0087] Figure 15 Example operations are described for the process of coarse and fine placement of REs in a WLAN that includes one or more APs with FTM capability.

[0088] Figure 16 Additional example operations are explained for the process of coarse and fine placement of REs in a WLAN that includes one or more APs with FTM capability.

[0089] Figure 17 An example operation is described for the process of finely placing REs in a WLAN using Channel State Information (CSI).

[0090] Figure 18 A block diagram of an example wireless communication device is shown.

[0091] Figure 19A A block diagram of an example AP is shown.

[0092] Figure 19B A block diagram of an example STA is shown.

[0093] Figure 20 A block diagram of an example electronic device for implementing various aspects of this disclosure is shown.

[0094] Similar reference numerals and naming conventions in the various figures indicate similar elements.

[0095] Detailed description

[0096] The following description pertains to certain aspects for the purpose of describing the inventive aspects of this disclosure. However, those skilled in the art will readily recognize that the teachings herein can be applied in many different ways. The examples in this disclosure are based on Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) communication according to the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 wireless standard. However, the described aspects can be implemented in any device, system, or network capable of transmitting and receiving radio frequency (RF) signals according to one or more of the following: the IEEE 802.11 standard, Bluetooth standard, Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Frequency Division Multiple Access (FDMA), Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA), Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), GSM / General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), Enhanced Data GSM Environment (EDGE), Terrestrial Trunking Radio (TETRA), Wideband CDMA (W-CDMA), Evolved Data Optimized (EV-DO), 1xEV-DO, EV-DO Revision A, EV-DO Revision B, High-Speed ​​Packet Access (HSPA), High-Speed ​​Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA), High-Speed ​​Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA), Evolved High-Speed ​​Packet Access (HSPA+), Long Term Evolution (LTE), AMPS, or other known signals used for communication in wireless networks, cellular networks, or Internet of Things (IoT) networks (such as systems utilizing 3G, 4G, 5G, or 6G or further implementations thereof).

[0097] A wireless local area network (WLAN) in a home, apartment, business, or other type of environment may include two or more WLAN devices. A WLAN may include one or more access points (APs) and one or more stations (STAs). An AP is a STA that performs distributed system access functions in a WLAN. For simplicity, this disclosure relates to a WLAN device that can operate as an AP or a STA. An AP can provide wireless access to STAs located in the coverage area of ​​the AP. STAs may include various types of WLAN devices, such as mobile phones, laptops, gaming systems (including virtual and augmented reality systems (VR and AR, or collectively XR)), entertainment systems, smart appliances, wearable devices, and IoT devices. Some APs may be able to establish connectivity over more than one frequency band. For example, an AP may operate a first basic service set (BSS) on a first frequency band (such as the 2.4 GHz band) and a second BSS on a second frequency band (such as the 5 GHz band). For simplicity, the first BSS and the second BSS may be referred to as the first frequency band of the AP and the second frequency band of the AP, respectively.

[0098] WLANs typically provide network connectivity throughout a physical space. When a STA moves into this space, it can receive signals from a first AP, such as beacon frames and other signals. The STA can associate with the first AP to establish connectivity to the WLAN. If the STA moves outside the coverage area of ​​the first AP, the signal strength of the signal received from the first AP may weaken. In some instances, the STA may be unaware of other APs, so it can still associate with the first AP despite a weaker signal. In response to the weak signal, the STA can scan to find different APs that can provide a stronger signal. For example, when the STA moves outside the coverage area of ​​the first AP, it can enter the coverage area of ​​a second AP. When the STA enters the coverage area of ​​the second AP, the first AP can attempt to guide the STA to associate with the second AP.

[0099] Various aspects of this disclosure generally relate to AP guidance or frequency band guidance based on the location of the STA. Some aspects more specifically relate to using Fine Timing Measurement (FTM) procedures to determine the relative distance or location of the STA to guide the STA from one AP to another. Some aspects relate to using FTM procedures to determine the relative distance or location of the STA to guide the STA from a first frequency band of the AP to a second frequency band of the AP. In some implementations, the AP may determine the location of the STA based on timing information and may guide the STA based on that location. To obtain round-trip timing (RTT) information, the AP may exchange FTM frames with the STA. The AP may determine the distance between itself and the STA based on the RTT information. The AP may also obtain distance information from other APs, where this distance information may include the distance between another AP and the STA. Using the distance between itself and the STA and additional distance information (such as the distance between another AP and the STA), the AP may determine the location of the STA and guide the WLAN device based on its location. The AP may guide the WLAN device to a different frequency band of the AP or a different AP.

[0100] To facilitate orientation, WLAN devices typically exchange signaling information, such as beacon measurement reports (defined in IEEE 802.11k) and received signal strength indicator (RSSI) measurements. For example, an AP can request a beacon measurement report from a STA, and the STA can provide a beacon measurement report to the AP. A beacon measurement report may include signal strength information from one or more beacon frames obtained from one or more APs in the WLAN. Using existing technologies, the exchange of beacon measurement reports and other signaling information may not be instantaneous, and in some instances, beacon reports may be unavailable. Therefore, the orientation process may be delayed or may not occur. For example, while an AP may periodically request beacon measurement reports, the STA may not respond to these requests. For instance, the STA may not receive a request from the AP due to interference in the WLAN and therefore may not respond to the AP. As another example, the STA may delay responding to a request due to network congestion. Therefore, APs may postpone their orientation process until the AP receives a beacon measurement report. In some instances, postponing the orientation process results in the STA remaining connected to the first AP even when it has moved to the coverage area of ​​a second AP that can better serve the STA than the first AP. In some instances, redirection delays cause APs to miss opportunities for band redirection and network load balancing. For example, some APs may initiate redirection when the RSSI measurement for a STA is below a signal strength threshold. When a STA moves away from an AP, RSSI updates may be delayed due to communication problems associated with low signal strength. Delayed RSSI updates may cause an AP to miss the opportunity to redirect a STA to another AP. Delayed RSSI updates may also cause an AP to miss the opportunity to redirect a STA from its first band to its second band. While an AP is waiting for an RSSI update, a STA may be associated with different APs. When an AP misses a band redirection opportunity, other APs in the WLAN may become overloaded.

[0101] Fine Timing Measurement (FTM) is a protocol introduced in IEEE 802.11-2016 (which is incorporated into IEEE 802.11MC). WLAN devices can exchange FTM frames and determine their Real-Time Tolerance (RTT) by using the Time of Departure (TOD) and Time of Arrival (TOA) timestamps captured during frame exchange. RTT information can include both TOD and TOA timestamps. Based on the RTT information, a WLAN device can measure its RTT relative to another WLAN device. The WLAN device can then multiply this RTT by 0.5 and the approximate speed of light in the wireless medium to determine the distance between the WLAN devices. WLAN devices can repeat this process with other WLAN devices to determine their relative distances or to other WLAN devices based on their relative distances to other WLAN devices and their known locations.

[0102] In some implementations, the AP can determine the STA's location based on RTT information and guide the STA accordingly. In other implementations, the AP can exchange FTM frames with the STA to obtain RTT information indicating the distance from the AP to the STA. The AP can also obtain distance information from other APs in the WLAN. By using the distance to the STA and additional distance information, the AP can determine the STA's location and guide the STA based on its position relative to the AP or another AP.

[0103] In some implementations, the first AP can determine a first distance from itself to the STA based on RTT information. For example, the first AP can exchange FTM frames with the STA. The FTM frame can include RTT information indicating the RTT of communication between the AP and the STA. By using the RTT, the AP can determine the first distance from the AP to the STA. In some implementations, the first AP can also determine a second distance from the second AP to the STA. For example, the first AP can obtain distance information from the second AP, where this distance information includes the second distance—the distance from the STA to the second AP. As another example, the first AP can obtain this distance information from an FTM ranging report received from the second AP or any suitable STA. In some examples, the first AP can determine the location of the STA based on the first and second distances. The first AP can determine whether to guide the STA based on its location. For example, the first AP can guide the STA to the second AP based on its location, i.e., the STA can be closer to the second AP, or the STA can be able to receive a signal with a higher relative strength based on its location.

[0104] In some implementations, the first AP can direct the STA to a different frequency band. For example, the first AP can direct the STA from its second frequency band to its first frequency band based on the STA's location. When the STA enters the coverage area of ​​the first frequency band, the AP can direct the STA from its second frequency band back to its first frequency band. For example, the AP's first frequency band may have a larger coverage area than its second frequency band. Therefore, when the STA moves to a greater distance from the AP, the AP can direct the STA to its first frequency band.

[0105] In some implementations, the first AP can access guidance information indicating whether to guide the STA based on its location. Depending on the STA's location, the guidance information can instruct the first AP not to guide the STA, to guide the first AP to a second AP, or to guide the first AP to a different frequency band of the first AP, as further described herein. For example, the guidance information can indicate a set of guidance decisions for a given location. In some implementations, the guidance information may include other information, such as the target AP to which the STA will be guided, distance information relative to other APs, location information relative to other APs, signal information relative to other APs, or any other information suitable for providing a basis for determining whether to guide the WLAN device.

[0106] Some STAs may not support the FTM features specified in IEEE 802.11-2016 and therefore may not support acquiring or exchanging FTM frames. Therefore, in some implementations, the AP can determine whether a STA is capable of exchanging FTM frames. In some implementations, during association, the AP can receive one or more elements indicating whether a STA is capable of acquiring or exchanging FTM frames. For example, during association, the AP can receive an extended capability element, where a field indicates that the STA is capable of acting as an FTM responder. If the STA is capable of acting as an FTM responder, then the STA has FTM capability. In some implementations, the AP can receive a capability element indicating that the STA can provide a ranging report indicating the range between the STA and other APs, where these ranges are determined using FTM protocols. STAs without FTM capability can also be referred to as not having FTM capability. The AP can determine the location of STAs with FTM capability based on RTT information obtained from the STA and distance information from other APs. The AP can determine whether to guide the STA based on its location.

[0107] In some implementations, guidance can be triggered by weak signal strength. For example, the AP can detect that the RSSI for the STA is less than a signal strength threshold. In response to determining that the RSSI for the STA is less than the signal strength threshold, the AP can determine whether the STA has FTM capability and perform guidance based on the STA's FTM-derived position. Therefore, FTM and guidance procedures can be triggered based on a decrease or change in the RSSI of the signal received from the STA. A change in the RSSI can indicate a change in the STA's position relative to the AP. Therefore, when the RSSI changes to below the signal strength threshold, the AP can initiate FTM to determine the updated position of the STA. If the STA has already moved to the new position, the AP can determine whether to guide the STA based on that new position.

[0108] In some implementations, the AP can band-direct a STA with FTM capability without information from other WLAN devices. For example, the STA can be associated with the AP's second band. However, the AP's first band can support a greater distance than its second band. The AP can exchange FTM packets with the STA to determine the distance from the AP to the STA. Based on this distance, the AP can direct the STA from its second band to its first band.

[0109] Specific implementations of the subject matter described in this disclosure can achieve one or more of the following potential advantages. Traditional guidance techniques may involve the AP sending information requests that are ignored by the STA. Unresponsive STAs may hinder the guidance process. In some implementations, the AP can use FTM procedures to obtain the information used in guidance and achieve better responsiveness from the STA. In some implementations, using RTT information derived from FTM frames to determine the STA's location by the AP can lead to faster guidance decisions compared to existing guidance techniques that use signaling information such as beacon measurement reports and RSSI. Faster guidance decisions by the AP can also result in fewer missed guidance opportunities. Using RTT information can also allow the AP to determine the STA's location more accurately. With improved location accuracy, the WLAN can make better and more consistent guidance decisions. Faster and more accurate guidance can lead to better STA performance and a better user experience.

[0110] Providing wireless access across an environment can be challenging for a single access point (AP) because various conditions can adversely affect the wireless signal. As the wireless signal travels a relatively long distance from the AP, it may lose strength, which can degrade the wireless service provided to STAs within the WLAN. In some environments, objects and materials may absorb, reflect, interfere with, or otherwise adversely affect the wireless signal. Adding one or more range extenders (REs) to the WLAN can increase signal strength in areas relatively far from the AP and in areas where the wireless signal is adversely affected by environmental conditions. An RE can be an additional AP within the WLAN that extends coverage by receiving and retransmitting wireless signals between WLAN devices. For example, an RE can retransmit wireless signals from a central AP (CAP) to STAs within the WLAN and vice versa. A CAP can be an AP connected to a gateway. REs and other APs can extend the service of a CAP and can be connected to the CAP via wired or wireless links.

[0111] The location of the RE (Relay Receiver) can affect its effectiveness in increasing coverage area or otherwise enhancing signal strength within a WLAN. The RE can perform a process that assists in placing the RE in the appropriate location. Traditional RE placement is based on the measured signal strength received from the AP. Based on this signal strength, the RE can provide feedback indicating whether it should move closer to the AP, further away from the AP, or remain in its current location. In some instances, there is no simple relationship between signal strength and distance from the AP. For example, environmental conditions (such as objects, walls, and other obstacles) may cause a first RE near the AP to have a lower signal strength than a second RE further away from the AP.

[0112] Various aspects of this disclosure generally relate to assisting in RE placement in an environment. Some aspects more specifically relate to using both FTM frames and signal strength to assist in placing the RE in a suitable location within that environment. The RE can use FTM frames to guide various aspects of its coarse placement, and signal strength can be used to guide its fine placement. FTM enables the RE to measure its RTT from itself to the AP based on FTM frames it sends to and receives from the AP. After measuring the RTT, the RE can determine a first distance from itself to the AP by multiplying the RTT by the approximate speed of light in the wireless medium. By using FTM, the RE uses RTT information rather than signal strength to determine the first distance. By using RTT information (such as FTM), the RE can determine the first distance to the AP without considering how environmental conditions may affect signal strength.

[0113] By using the initial distance from the RE to the AP, the RE can roughly determine whether it is within an acceptable distance range from the AP. This acceptable distance range can be the range that appropriately extends the coverage area of ​​the AP in the WLAN while maintaining adequate signal strength. Therefore, by using this acceptable distance range, the RE can use RTT information to find a distance where signal strength and coverage area are likely appropriate at its location during the rough placement of the RE. The RE can provide a rough placement indicator to indicate whether to move the RE closer to the AP, further away from the AP, or whether the RE is within the acceptable distance range. The RE can repeat the rough placement-related operations until the RE is within the acceptable distance range of the AP.

[0114] If the RE is within the acceptable distance range, the RE can perform fine-tuning operations for RE placement. In response to the RE determining that it is within the acceptable distance range of the AP, the RE can determine the signal strength associated with the AP. For example, for fine-tuning the RE placement, the RE can determine the RSSI based on the signal received from the AP.

[0115] A RE (Relay Element) can compare signal strength to one or more signal strength thresholds. These thresholds can encompass one or more signal strength ranges that indicate whether the RE should be repositioned for finer placement. For example, a first signal strength threshold might identify a minimum signal strength below which the RE should be moved closer to the AP. A second threshold might identify a maximum signal strength above which the RE should be moved further away from the AP. The range of values ​​including the minimum and maximum signal strengths indicates the range of signal strength within which the RE should remain in its current location. Therefore, comparing signal strength to one or more signal strength thresholds can indicate whether the signal strength is too high, too low, or within an acceptable range.

[0116] Based on a comparison of signal strength with one or more signal strength thresholds, the RE can provide a fine-grained placement indicator to assist in the fine placement of the RE in the environment. As mentioned, this comparison can indicate whether the signal strength is too high, too low, or within an appropriate range. The fine-grained placement indicator can relate to whether the signal strength is too high, too low, or within an appropriate range. For example, if the signal strength is too high, the fine-grained placement indicator could be an indication to move the RE further away from the AP. If the signal strength is too low, the fine-grained placement indicator could be an indication to move the RE closer to the AP. If the signal strength is within an appropriate range, the fine-grained placement indicator could be an indication to keep the RE in its current position. The fine-grained placement indicator may include or otherwise result in the presentation of any suitable audible or visual indication (such as a beep, flash, or text on a screen) to move the RE in the environment.

[0117] Specific implementations of the subject matter described in this disclosure can also be implemented to achieve one or more of the following potential advantages. In some implementations, using RTT information derived from FTM frames to determine the distance to the AP can lead to faster RE placement decisions compared to RE placement techniques that use only signaling information (such as RSSI). The RE can also utilize signaling information to provide more accurate placement guidance compared to conventional techniques used for RE placement. The RE can also utilize channel state information to provide more accurate and robust placement guidance compared to conventional techniques used for RE placement. Faster, more accurate, and more robust placement decisions by the RE can create a better user experience by reducing the time users spend waiting for guidance (such as audible or visual instructions) on where to place the RE within the environment.

[0118] Figure 1A system diagram of an example wireless communication network 100 is shown. According to some aspects, the wireless communication network 100 may be an example of a wireless local area network (WLAN) (such as a Wi-Fi network) (and will be referred to WLAN 100 below). For example, WLAN 100 may be a network implementing at least one of the IEEE 802.11 standard family (such as standards defined by the IEEE 802.11-2016 specification or its amendments, including but not limited to 802.11aa, 802.11ah, 802.11ad, 802.11aq, 802.11ay, 802.11ax, 802.11az, 802.11ba, and 802.11be). WLAN 100 may include numerous WLAN devices, such as access points (APs) 102 and multiple stations (STAs) 104 having wireless associations with APs 102. Although only one AP 102 is shown, WLAN 100 may also include multiple APs 102. The IEEE 802.11-2016 standard defines a STA as an addressable unit. An AP is an entity that contains at least one STA and provides access to associated STAs via a wireless medium (WM) for access to distribution services (such as another network, not shown). Therefore, an AP includes both the STA and Distribution System Access Function (DSAF). Figure 1 In the example, AP 102 may be connected to a gateway device (not shown) that provides connectivity to another network 140. The DSAF of AP 102 can provide access between STA 104 and the other network 140. Although AP 102 is described as an access point using infrastructure mode, in some implementations, AP 102 may be a conventional STA operating as an AP. For example, AP 102 may be a STA capable of operating in peer-to-peer or stand-alone mode. In some other examples, AP 102 may be a software AP (SoftAP) operating on a computer system.

[0119] Each STA 104 may also be referred to as a mobile station (MS), mobile device, mobile handheld device, wireless handheld device, access terminal (AT), user equipment (UE), subscriber station (SS), or subscriber unit, and other possibilities. STA 104 may represent a variety of devices such as mobile phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), other handheld devices, netbooks, laptops, tablets, laptops, display devices (e.g., TVs, computer monitors, navigation systems, etc.), music or other audio or stereo devices, remote control devices (“remote controllers”), printers, kitchen or other household appliances, key fobs (e.g., for passive keyless entry and start (PKES) systems), and other possibilities.

[0120] A single AP 102 and its associated set of STAs 104 may be referred to as a Basic Service Set (BSS), which is managed by the corresponding AP 102. Figure 1 Example coverage area 108 of AP 102 is shown, which may represent the Basic Service Area (BSA) of WLAN 100. The BSA can be identified to users by a Service Set Identifier (SSID) and to other devices by a Basic Service Set Identifier (BSSID), where the BSSID may be the Media Access Control (MAC) address of AP 102. AP 102 periodically broadcasts a beacon frame (“beacon”) including the BSSID to enable any STA 104 within the wireless range of AP 102 to establish or maintain a corresponding communication link 106 with AP 102 (hereinafter also referred to as a “Wi-Fi link”). For example, the beacon may include an identifier of the primary channel used by the corresponding AP 102 and a timing synchronization function for establishing or maintaining timing synchronization with the AP. AP 102 may provide access to external networks (such as network 140) to each STA 104 in the WLAN via the corresponding communication link 106. In order to establish a communication link 106 with AP 102, each STA 104 is configured to perform passive or active scanning operations (“scanning”) on frequency channels in one or more frequency bands (e.g., 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, 6 GHz, or 60 GHz bands). To perform a passive scan, STA 104 listens for beacons transmitted by the corresponding AP 102 at periodic time intervals (referred to as Target Beacon Transmission Time (TBTT) (measured in units of time (TU), where one TU can be equal to 1024 microseconds (μs)). To perform an active scan, STA 104 generates probe requests and transmits these probe requests sequentially on each channel to be scanned, and listens for probe responses from AP 102. Each STA 104 can be configured to identify or select an AP 102 to associate with based on scan information obtained through passive or active scanning, and perform authentication and association operations to establish a communication link 106 with the selected AP 102. AP 102 may assign an Association Identifier (AID) to STA 104 at the end of the association operation, and AP 102 uses the AID to track STA 104.

[0121] As wireless networks become increasingly prevalent, STA 104 can have the opportunity to choose from one of many BSSs within its range or from multiple APs 102 that together form an Extended Service Set (ESS) (comprising multiple connected BSSs). The extended network station associated with WLAN 100 can be connected to a wired or wireless distribution system that allows multiple APs 102 to be connected in such an ESS. Thus, STA 104 can be covered by more than one AP 102 and can be associated with different APs 102 at different times for different transmissions. Additionally, after being associated with an AP 102, STA 104 can also be configured to periodically scan its surroundings to find a more suitable AP 102 to associate with. For example, a STA 104 moving relative to its associated AP 102 can perform a "roaming" scan to find another AP 102 with more suitable network characteristics, such as a larger Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) or reduced traffic load.

[0122] In some scenarios, STA 104 can form a network without AP 102 or other equipment besides STA 104 itself. An example of such a network is an ad hoc network (or wireless ad hoc network). Ad hoc networks are alternatively referred to as mesh networks or peer-to-peer (P2P) networks. In some scenarios, ad hoc networks can be implemented within a larger wireless network (such as WLAN 100). In such implementations, while STA 104 can communicate with each other via AP 102 using communication link 106, STA 104 can also communicate directly with each other via direct wireless link 107. Furthermore, two STA 104 can communicate via direct communication link 107 regardless of whether the two STA 104 are associated with and served by the same AP 102. In such ad hoc systems, one or more STA 104 can assume the role played by AP 102 in the BSS. Such STA 104 can be referred to as the group owner (GO) and can coordinate transmissions within the ad hoc network. Examples of direct wireless links 107 include Wi-Fi Direct connections, connections established using Wi-Fi Tunneling Direct Link Establishment (TDLS) links, and other P2P group connections.

[0123] AP 102 and STA 104 function and communicate (via the corresponding communication link 106) in accordance with the IEEE 802.11 standard family, such as standards defined by the IEEE 802.11-2016 specification or its revisions, including but not limited to 802.11aa, 802.11ah, 802.11aq, 802.11ad, 802.11ay, 802.11ax, 802.11az, 802.11ba, and 802.11be. These standards define the WLAN radio and baseband protocols used for the PHY and Media Access Control (MAC) layers. AP 102 and STA 104 transmit and receive wireless communications (also referred to below as "Wi-Fi communication") to and from each other in the form of Physical Layer Convergence Protocol (PLCP) Protocol Data Units (PPDUs).

[0124] Each frequency band may include multiple subbands or frequency channels. For example, PPDUs conforming to revisions of the IEEE 802.11n, 802.11ac, 802.11ax, and 802.11be standards can be transmitted in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands, where each band is divided into multiple 20 MHz channels. Thus, these PPDUs are transmitted on physical channels with a minimum bandwidth of 20 MHz, but larger channels can be formed through channel bonding. For example, PPDUs conforming to revisions of the IEEE 802.11n, 802.11ac, 802.11ax, and 802.11be standards can be transmitted on physical channels with bandwidths of 40 MHz, 80 MHz, 80+80 MHz, 160 MHz, 160+160 MHz, or 320 MHz by bonding two or more contiguously or non-contiguously allocated 20 MHz channels together. For example, IEEE 802.11n describes the use of up to two channels (resulting in a combined 40 MHz bandwidth) and defines a high-throughput (HT) transmission format. IEEE 802.11ac describes the use of up to eight channels (resulting in a maximum combined 160 MHz bandwidth) and defines a very high-throughput (VHT) transmission format. IEEE 802.11ax also supports up to a combined 160 MHz bandwidth (which can be a combination of eight channels, each with a width of 20 MHz). IEEE 802.11be can support up to a combined 320 MHz bandwidth (which is a combination of 16 channels, each with a width of 20 MHz).

[0125] AP 102 and STA 104 in WLAN 100 can transmit PPDUs on unlicensed spectrum, which can be a portion of the spectrum including bands traditionally used by Wi-Fi technologies, such as the 2.4 GHz band, 5 GHz band, 60 GHz band, and 900 MHz band. Some implementations of AP 102 and STA 104 described herein can also communicate in other bands, such as the 6 GHz band, that can support both licensed and unlicensed communication. AP 102 and STA 104 can also be configured to communicate on other bands, such as shared licensed bands, where multiple operators may have licenses to operate in one or more of the same or overlapping bands.

[0126] Each PPDU is a composite structure comprising a PHY preamble, a PHY header, and a payload in the form of a PLCP Service Data Unit (PSDU). For example, a PSDU may include a PHY preamble and header (which may be referred to as a PLCP preamble and header) and one or more MAC Protocol Data Units (MPDUs). The information provided in the PHY preamble and header can be used by the receiving equipment to decode subsequent data in the PSDU. In instances where the PPDU is transmitted over bonded channels, the preamble and header fields may be copied and transmitted in each of multiple component channels. The PHY preamble can be used for packet detection, automatic gain control, channel estimation, and other purposes. The format, decoding, and information provided in the PHY header are based on the specific IEEE 802.11 protocol to be used to transmit the payload and typically include signaling fields (such as SIG-A and SIG-B fields) that include BSS and addressing information such as BSS color and STA ID.

[0127] Various aspects of the transmission can vary based on the distance between the transmitting party (e.g., AP 102 or STA 104) and the receiving party (e.g., another AP 102 or STA 104). Wireless communication devices generally benefit from having information relating to the location or proximity of the individual STAs 104 within the coverage area. In some examples, the relevant distance can be calculated using an RTT-based ranging protocol. Additionally, in some implementations, AP 102 and STA 104 can be configured to perform ranging operations. Each ranging operation may involve exchanging FTM frames (such as those defined in the IEEE 802.11mc specification or its revisions or updates).

[0128] Figure 2 A timing diagram illustrating an example process for performing ranging operation 200 is shown. The process for ranging operation 200 can be performed collaboratively by two wireless devices 202a and 202b (each of which can be an example of AP 102 or STA 104).

[0129] Wireless devices 202a and 202b can exchange FTM messages as part of ranging operation 200. Ranging operation 200 may begin when the first wireless device 202a transmits an initial FTM ranging request frame 204 at time t1,0. In some implementations, the second wireless device 202b may respond to the FTM ranging request 204 within approximately 10 milliseconds (+ / - 3 milliseconds) of receiving it. In response to successfully receiving the FTM ranging request frame 204 at time t2,0, the second wireless device 202b may respond by transmitting a first ACK 206 at time t3,0, which the first wireless device 202a receives at time t4,0. The first wireless device 202a and the second wireless device 202b may exchange one or more FTM bursts, each of which may include multiple exchanges of FTM action frames (hereinafter referred to as "FTM frames") and corresponding ACKs. One or more of the FTM ranging request frame 204 and the FTM action frame (hereinafter referred to as the “FTM frame”) may include FTM parameters specifying various characteristics of the ranging operation 200.

[0130] exist Figure 2 In the example shown, during the first exchange starting at time t1,1, the second wireless device 202b may transmit the first FTM frame 208. The second wireless device 202b may record time t1,1 as the TOD of the first FTM frame 208. The first wireless device 202a may receive the first FTM frame 208 at time t2,1 and transmit a first acknowledgment frame (ACK) 210 to the second wireless device 202b at time t3,1. The first wireless device 202a may record time t2,1 as the TOA of the first FTM frame 208 and record time t3,1 as the TOD of the first ACK 210. The second wireless device 202b may receive the first ACK 210 at time t4,1 and record time t4,1 as the TOA of the first ACK 210.

[0131] Similarly, in the second exchange starting at time t1,2, the second wireless device 202b may transmit a second FTM frame 212. The second FTM frame 212 may include a first field indicating the TOD of the first FTM frame 208 and a second field indicating the TOA of the first ACK 210. The first wireless device 202a may receive the second FTM frame 212 at time t2,2 and transmit a second ACK 214 to the second wireless device 202b at time t3,2. The second wireless device 202b may receive the second ACK 214 at time t4,2. Similarly, in the third exchange starting at time t1,3, the second wireless device 202b may transmit a third FTM frame 216. The third FTM frame 216 may include a first field indicating the TOD of the second FTM frame 212 and a second field indicating the TOA of the second ACK 214. The first wireless device 202a may receive the third FTM frame 216 at time t2,3 and transmit a third ACK 218 to the second wireless device 202b at time t3,3. The second wireless device 202b can receive the third ACK 218 at time t4,3.

[0132] The first wireless device 202a may determine the ranging indication based on the aforementioned TODs and TOAs. For example, in an implementation or instance where the FTM burst includes four exchanges of FTM frames as described above, the first wireless device 202a may be configured to determine the round-trip time (RTT) between itself and the second wireless device 202b based on Equation 1 below.

[0133]

[0134] In some implementations, the ranging indicator is the RTT (Round-Trip Time). Additionally or alternatively, in some implementations, the first wireless device 202a may determine the actual approximate distance between itself and the second wireless device 202b, for example, by multiplying the RTT by 0.5 and by the approximate speed of light in the wireless medium. In such instances, the ranging indicator may additionally or alternatively include a distance value. Additionally or alternatively, the ranging indicator may include an indication of whether the second wireless device 202b is within the neighborhood of the first wireless device 202a (e.g., a service discovery threshold) based on the RTT. In some implementations, the first wireless device 202a may transmit the ranging indicator to the second wireless device 202b at time t1, 4, for example, in a ranging report 224, wherein the second wireless device receives the ranging report 224 at time t2, 4.

[0135] As previously described, this disclosure includes some example techniques in which the FTM protocol can be used to determine the location of a STA. An AP can then determine, based on the STA's location, whether to redirect the STA to another AP or to a different frequency band of an AP.

[0136] Figure 3A system diagram of an example WLAN is shown, which includes an AP configured to perform location-aware guidance based on RTT information obtained from the STA. Figure 3 The WLAN 300 shown is based on Figure 1 The example WLAN 100 described herein. WLAN 300 includes APs 310 and 312 and STA 314. In the various examples described herein, for simplicity, one or more WLAN devices (such as STA 314) may be referred to as STAs, regardless of whether the WLAN device is an AP or a non-AP STA. For example, STA 314 may be a non-AP STA or an AP. Furthermore, although not shown for simplicity, WLAN 300 may include one or more additional STAs, which may include one or more additional APs and one or more additional non-AP STAs. In some implementations, WLAN 300 may be configured as a mesh network, which may include AP 310, AP 312, and one or more additional APs. APs 310 and 312 may be connected to a gateway device (not shown) that provides connectivity to another network. APs 310 and 312 may be... Figure 1 AP102 or Figure 19A An example implementation of AP 1902. STA 314 can be... Figure 1 STA 104 or Figure 19B Example implementation of STA 1904.

[0137] Each of APs 310 and 312 may include a measurement unit 306. Measurement unit 306 may determine the distance from the AP to the STA. For example, in AP 310, measurement unit 306 may determine the distance from AP 310 to STA 314. In some implementations, measurement unit 306 may determine the distance based on signal information. For example, in AP 310, measurement unit 306 may obtain signal information associated with STA 314, such as RSSI and beacon measurement reports. Measurement unit 306 may determine the distance from AP 310 to STA 314 based on this signal information. In some implementations, measurement unit 306 may also determine the distance based on RTT information. For example, in AP 310, measurement unit 306 may determine the distance from AP 310 to STA 314 based on RTT information derived from FTM frames exchanged with STA 314. The FTM frame may include a timestamp indicating the RTT between AP 310 and STA 314. By using RTT (Real-Time Tolerance), measurement unit 306 can determine the distance between AP 310 and STA 314. Measurement unit 306 can also obtain location information from AP 312. This location information may include the distance from AP 312 to STA 314. This location information may also include the position of STA 314 relative to AP 312. By using the distance from AP 310 to STA 314 and the location information obtained from AP 312, measurement unit 306 can determine the position of STA 314. In some implementations, this position may be relative to AP 310. AP 310 may share the location information about STA 314 with other APs in the WLAN 300 (such as AP 312).

[0138] Each of APs 310 and 312 may further include a guidance unit 308. Guidance unit 308 may include guidance information 318 used when making guidance decisions. In some implementations, guidance unit 308 may guide the STA based on the location determined by measurement unit 306 and guidance information 318. Guidance unit 308 may use the location to access the guidance decision in guidance information 318. In some implementations, guidance information 318 may associate the location with a guidance decision (such as "guide" or "do not guide"). In some implementations, guidance information indicates the target AP (such as AP 312) to which the STA will be guided. Guidance unit 308 may operate a feedback loop to update guidance information 318. For example, after guiding the STA, guidance unit 308 may measure the signal strength at the STA to determine whether guidance is effective. Guidance unit 308 may update guidance information 318 based on this determination. Guidance information 318 may be implemented as a data structure in a memory device. For example, in some implementations, the guidance information 318 may include a lookup table that includes guidance decisions indexed by location or region. In some other implementations, the guidance information 318 may be organized in any other manner suitable for storing information and may include any information suitable for determining guidance decisions based on the location of STA 314.

[0139] In some implementations, STA 314 may begin at a first location 316 within the coverage area of ​​AP 310. While within the coverage area of ​​AP 310, STA 314 has a radio association 302 with AP 310. During a period of time, STA 314 may move closer to the coverage area of ​​AP 312. During this period, AP 310 may determine the location of STA 314 once or multiple times. To determine the location, AP 310 may exchange FTM frames with STA 314. The FTM frame may include RTT information that can be used to determine the RTT between AP 310 and STA 314. Based on this RTT, AP 310 may determine the distance from AP 310 to STA 314. AP 310 may also determine the distance from STA 314 to AP 312. For example, AP 310 may obtain location information indicating the distance from STA 314 to AP 312 via a measurement frame received from AP 312. AP 310 can use this distance, along with location information obtained from AP 312, to determine the location of STA 314. In some implementations, this location can be relative to AP 310. In some implementations, AP 310 can use two or more distances to a known location (such as the corresponding distances from STA 314 to AP 312 and from STA 314 to AP 310) to determine the relative location of STA. If one or two distances to a known location exist, AP 310 can represent the location of STA 314 using a set of coordinates indicating a point where STA 314 can reside. If three or more distances to a known location exist (such as distance information associated with three or more APs), AP 310 can use trilateration to determine a single point representing the location of STA 314 relative to AP 310. AP 310 can use the location of STA 314 to determine whether to guide STA 314. AP 310 can periodically repeat the process of determining location and determining whether to guide. Therefore, during the period when STA 314 is moving closer to AP 312, AP 310 can determine one or more locations of STA 314 and make one or more guidance decisions regarding STA 314. In some implementations, AP 310 can access guidance information indicating whether to guide STA 314 based on its location. Depending on the location of STA 314, the guidance information can guide AP 310 to guide STA 314 to AP 312. After AP 310 guides STA 314 to AP 312, STA 314 establishes a radio association 304 with AP 312.

[0140] Directing refers to any activity that causes a device to wirelessly associate with a second AP instead of maintaining its association with the first AP. Directing may also be referred to as reassociation activity, movement, transfer, relocation, transformation, handover, repositioning, handover, etc. Various techniques exist that can be used to direct STA 314 to a specific AP or frequency band. For example, AP 310 can simply request the device to reassociate with AP 312 using IEEE 802.11v or other protocols. An IEEE 802.11v configuration message may include a list of one or more other APs (e.g., including AP 312) as a suggestion for STA 314 to reassociate with AP 312. However, if STA 314 does not support the IEEE 802.11v protocol or chooses to ignore the suggestion, AP 310 can use another technique to direct STA 314. For example, AP 310 can send a disconnect message to STA 314, or AP 310 can block traffic (at least one incoming packet) to STA 314 to force STA 314 to re-associate with AP 312.

[0141] Figure 4 A system diagram of an example WLAN including an access point (AP) configured to direct STAs from the AP's first frequency band to the AP's second frequency band. Figure 3 As described herein, WLAN 300 may include AP 310, AP 312 and STA 314.

[0142] AP 310 can support communication on a first frequency band and a second frequency band. The first frequency band may include a 2.4 GHz band, and the second frequency band may include a 5 GHz band. The first frequency band may have a coverage area represented by a first region within circle 322. The second frequency band may have a coverage area represented by a second region within circle 320.

[0143] Initially, STA 314 can be within the coverage area of ​​the first frequency band and can have a radio association 402 with AP 310 on the first frequency band. As STA 314 moves around the environment, AP 310 can track the movement of STA 314. AP 310 can determine the distance from AP 310 to STA 314 based on RTT information included in the FTM frame exchanged with STA 314. The FTM frame can include a timestamp that can be used to derive the RTT between AP 310 and STA 314. By using the RTT, AP 310 can determine the distance from AP 310 to STA 314. AP 310 can also determine the distance based on guidance information 318 (such as...). Figure 3As shown in the diagram, the distance from AP310 to STA 314 determines whether to guide STA 314. Initially, AP 310 may not guide STA 314 because STA 314 is connected via the first frequency band and is within its coverage area. Over time, AP 310 can track the movement of STA 314 by repeating this process. When STA 314 moves closer to AP 310, AP 310 can determine that STA 314 is within the coverage area of ​​the second frequency band based on the RTT information obtained from STA 314. In response, AP 310 can guide STA 314 from the first frequency band to the second frequency band, thereby generating a radio association 404. When AP 310 repeats the distance determination process, AP 310 can share the distance with AP 312. For example, AP 310 can transmit a management frame to AP 312 to share location information indicating the distance from AP 310 to STA 314.

[0144] Figure 5 A system diagram of an example WLAN is shown, including an AP that performs guidance operations in response to signal information. Figure 3 As described herein, WLAN 300 may include AP 310, AP 312 and STA 314.

[0145] like Figure 5As shown, AP 312 may have a coverage area within circle 508. AP 310 may have a coverage area within circle 506. These ranges define area 510, where STA 314 may be within the coverage areas of both AP 310 and 312. The guide boundary 504 represents a distance from AP 310 at which the signal strength for STA 314 may be less than a signal strength threshold. In some implementations, a guide process may be triggered when the signal strength is less than the signal strength threshold. For example, STA 314 may initially connect to AP 312 via wireless association 502. AP 312 may monitor RSSI measurements to determine if the signal strength is less than the signal strength threshold. AP 312 may determine the RSSI based on one or more signals received from STA 314. AP 312 may determine whether the RSSI indicates a signal strength less than the signal strength threshold. The signal strength may decrease as STA 314 moves away from AP 312. If STA 314 moves past guide boundary 504, the signal strength may drop below the signal strength threshold. In response to determining that the signal strength is less than a signal strength threshold, AP 310312 can determine the position of STA 314 based on RTT information associated with STA 314 and position information obtained from AP 310. For example, AP 312 can exchange FTM frames with STA 314. The FTM frame can include RTT information that can be used to determine the RTT between AP 312 and STA 314. Based on this RTT, AP 312 can determine the distance from AP 312 to STA 314. AP 312 can also determine the distance from STA 314 to AP 310. For example, AP 312 can obtain position information indicating the distance from STA 314 to AP 310 via a measurement frame received from AP 310. AP 312 can determine whether to guide STA 314 based on the position of STA 314. AP 312 can access guidance information indicating whether to guide STA based on its position. Depending on the STA's location, guidance information can instruct AP 312 to direct the STA to a second AP. AP 312 can then direct STA 314 to AP 310. After guidance, STA 314 establishes a wireless association 512 with AP 310. AP 312 can share the distance from AP 312 to STA 314 and the location of STA 314 with AP 310.

[0146] Figure 6 The process 600 describes an example operation for location-aware guidance performed by a device of the AP. Process 600 can be performed by a wireless communication device (such as [reference 1]). Figure 18 and 20The described wireless communication device 1800 or electronic device 2000 may perform the procedure. In some implementations, the procedure 600 may be performed by an AP (such as, see below) Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 19A The wireless communication device that operates or operates within the AP (one of the APs 102, 310, 312 and 1902) as described herein shall perform the operation.

[0147] In box 610, the device of the first AP in the WLAN can determine whether the WLAN devices are able to exchange FTM frames.

[0148] In block 614, in response to determining that the WLAN device is capable of exchanging FTM frames, the device of the first AP can continue process 600 in block 618.

[0149] In box 618, the device of the first AP can determine the first distance from the first AP to the WLAN device based at least in part on the FTM frames exchanged with the WLAN device.

[0150] In box 620, the device of the first AP can obtain a second distance from the second AP to the WLAN device.

[0151] In box 630, the device of the first AP can determine the location of the WLAN device at least in part based on the first distance and the second distance.

[0152] In box 640, the device of the first AP can direct the WLAN to the remote AP at least in part based on the location of the STA.

[0153] Figure 7 The process 700, described and explained, illustrates an example operation of location-aware band guidance performed by a device of the AP. Process 700 can be performed by wireless communication devices (such as those described in reference 1). Figure 18 and 20 The described wireless communication device 1800 or electronic device 2000 may perform this process. In some implementations, process 700 may be performed by an AP (such as, see respective...). Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 19A The wireless communication device that operates or operates within the AP (one of the APs 102, 310, 312 and 1902) as described herein shall perform the operation.

[0154] In box 710, the device of the AP in the WLAN can determine whether the WLAN device is able to exchange FTM frames.

[0155] In box 720, in response to determining that the WLAN device is capable of exchanging FTM frames, the process continues in box 730.

[0156] In box 730, the device of the AP can determine the distance from the AP to the WLAN device based at least in part on FTM frames exchanged with the WLAN device.

[0157] In box 740, the device of the AP can direct the WLAN device from the second frequency band of the AP to the first frequency band of the AP, at least in part, based on the distance.

[0158] Figure 8 The process 800 is described to illustrate an example operation for performing location-aware guidance using a STA with FTM capability. Process 800 can be communicated by wireless communication devices (such as those described in reference 1). Figure 18 and 20 The described wireless communication device 1800 or electronic device 2000 may perform the process. In some implementations, process 800 may be performed by an AP (such as, see respective...). Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 19A The description of flowchart 800 refers to one of the APs 102, 310, 312, and 1902, or a wireless communication device operating within the AP. Figure 3 Other devices described.

[0159] In box 810, AP 310 can detect STA 314 with FTM capability. In some implementations, AP 310 can detect probe requests or other communications from STA 314 indicating that STA 314 has FTM capability. In some instances, AP 310 can receive a capability element that includes a field indicating that STA 314 has FTM capability. For example, AP 310 can receive an extended capability element where a field indicates that STA 314 can act as an FTM responder. If STA 314 can act as an FTM responder, then STA 314 has FTM capability. In some implementations, all STAs in WLAN 300 can have FTM capability.

[0160] In box 820, AP 310 may exchange FTM frames with STA 314. In some implementations, AP 310 may output an FTM request for transmission to STA 314. STA may return an FTM ACK. In response to the FTM ACK, AP 310 may exchange FTM frames with STA 314. The FTM frame may include a timestamp or other timing information that can be used to determine the RTT from AP 310 to STA 314.

[0161] In box 830, AP 310 can determine the distance to STA 314 based on the FTM frame. In some implementations, AP 310 can determine the distance to STA 314 based on the RTT associated with the FTM frame.

[0162] In box 840, AP 310 can obtain first location information indicating the location of STA 314 relative to other APs in WLAN 300. In some implementations, AP 310 can obtain the first location information from AP 312 via a management frame shared between APs 310 and 312. The location information may include the distance between AP 312 and STA 314, the location of STA 314 relative to AP 312, and the location of other APs in WLAN 300 (…). Figure 3 The distance between (not shown in the image), the position relative to other APs, and any other suitable location information.

[0163] In box 850, AP 310 can determine the location of STA 314 based on the distance and location information (determined in box 830). In some implementations, AP 310 can determine the location of STA 314 using two or more distances to a known location (such as the corresponding distances from STA to AP 312 and AP 310). If fewer than three distances exist, AP 310 can represent the location of STA using a set of coordinates indicating a point where STA can reside. If three or more distances exist (such as when the distance information involves three or more APs), AP 310 can use trilateration to determine a single point representing the location of STA 314. These operations can continue in parallel in boxes 860 and 870.

[0164] In block 860, AP 310 can determine whether the location of STA 314 is suitable for guidance. In some implementations, AP 310 can make this determination based on guidance information 318. In some implementations, guidance information 318 can indicate guidance decisions to be made at various locations. By using the location of STA 314 as an index to guidance information 318, AP 310 can obtain the guidance decision associated with that location. In some implementations, guidance information 318 may include other information, such as the target AP to which STA 314 will be guided, distance information related to the WLAN device, location information related to the WLAN device, signal information related to the WLAN device, and any other suitable information that can provide a basis for determining whether to guide the WLAN device. If the location is not suitable for guidance, operation continues in block 820. If the location is suitable for guidance, operation continues in block 880.

[0165] In box 880, AP 310 can guide STA 314. In some implementations, AP 310 can guide STA 314 to the target AP (such as AP 312) indicated in the guidance information 318.

[0166] In box 870, AP 310 outputs second location information indicating the position of STA 314 relative to AP 310. AP 312 and other APs (not shown) in WLAN 300 can obtain this second location information and use it to perform location-aware guidance.

[0167] Figure 9 This describes and explains a process 900 for performing location-aware guidance in a WLAN that includes both STAs with and without FTM capability. Process 900 can be performed by wireless communication devices (such as those described in reference 1). Figure 18 and 20 The described wireless communication device 1800 or electronic device 2000 may perform the procedure. In some implementations, the procedure 900 may be performed by an AP (such as, see below) Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 19A and Figure 20 The process 900 is performed by a wireless communication device that operates or operates within an AP (one of the described APs 102, 310, 312, and 1902). The following description of process 900 will refer to AP 310 and... Figure 3 Other devices described.

[0168] In box 901, AP 310 can determine the signal strength for STA 314.

[0169] In block 902, AP 310 can determine whether the signal strength of STA 314 is less than a signal strength threshold. In some implementations, AP 310 can determine the RSSI based on one or more signals received from STA 314, and can determine the signal strength based on that RSSI. In some implementations, AP 310 can also determine whether other conditions are met, such as whether network load conditions are met. For example, network load conditions may be met when the target AP (such as AP 312) used for the directed operation is not overloaded. Network load conditions may not be met when the target AP (such as AP 312) is overloaded. If the signal strength is greater than or equal to the signal strength threshold or the network load condition is not met, AP 310 can continue monitoring the signal strength by looping back to block 902. If the signal strength is less than the signal strength threshold or the network load condition is met, the operation can continue in block 904.

[0170] In box 904, AP 310 can determine whether STA has FTM capability. In some implementations, AP 310 can receive a capability element that includes a field indicating that STA 314 has FTM capability. For example, during association, AP 310 can receive a capability element indicating that STA can act as an FTM responder. If STA can act as an FTM responder, then STA has FTM capability. If STA 314 has FTM capability, operation can continue in box 916. If STA 314 does not have FTM capability, operation can continue in box 908.

[0171] In box 908, AP 310 can request information from STA 314 indicating signal strength relative to AP 310 and other APs in the WLAN. In some implementations, AP 310 can request a beacon measurement report that includes received channel power indicators (RCPIs) relative to AP 310 and other APs in the WLAN 300. The AP can also request other IEEE 802.11k reports (such as neighbor reports) or other information indicating signal strength relative to AP 310 and other APs. IEEE 802.11k is a revision of the IEEE 802.11 radio resource management standard. It defines and exposes radio and network information to facilitate the management and maintenance of WLANs.

[0172] In box 910, AP 310 can determine whether STA has responded to the request for signal strength information. In some implementations, STA 314 can provide one or more beacon measurement reports, including RCPI relative to AP 310 and other APs in WLAN 300. STA 314 can provide additional IEEE 802.11k information or any other suitable information indicating signal strength relative to APs in WLAN 300. If STA 314 does not respond to the request for signal strength information, operation can continue in box 908. If STA responds to the request for signal strength information, operation can continue in box 912.

[0173] In block 911, AP 310 can be implemented to compare the signal strength received from STA 314 with the signal strength of STA 314 relative to other APs in WLAN 300. In some implementations, AP 310 can compare its RCPI relative to itself and STA 314 with one or more RCPIs relative to STA 314 and other APs in WLAN 300.

[0174] In box 912, AP 310 can determine whether the difference between these signal strengths is greater than a signal strength threshold. In some implementations, AP 310 can determine whether the difference between these RCPIs is greater than a signal strength threshold. If the difference between these signal strengths is greater than the signal strength threshold, the operation can continue in box 914. If the difference between these signal strengths is less than the signal strength threshold, the operation can continue in box 902.

[0175] In box 914, AP 310 can guide STA 314. For STAs without FTM capability, AP 310 can guide STA 314 to a target AP based on signal information (such as RCPI).

[0176] Returning to reference box 904, if STA 314 has FTM capability, operation can continue in box 916. In box 916, AP 310 can exchange FTM frames with STA 314. In some implementations, AP 310 can output an FTM request for transmission to STA 314. STA 314 can return an FTM ACK. In response to this FTM ACK, AP 310 can exchange FTM frames with STA 314. The FTM frame may include a timestamp or other timing information that can be used to determine the RTT from AP 310 to STA 314.

[0177] In box 918, AP 310 can determine the distance to STA 314 based on the FTM frame. In some implementations, AP 310 can determine the distance to STA 314 based on the RTT associated with the FTM frame.

[0178] In box 920, AP 310 can obtain location information indicating the location of STA 314 relative to other APs in WLAN 300. In some implementations, AP 310 can obtain this location information from AP 312 via a management frame shared between APs 310 and 312. The location information may include the distance between AP 312 and STA 314, the location of STA 314 relative to AP 312, and the location of other APs in WLAN 300. Figure 2 The distance between (not shown in the image), the position relative to other APs, and any other suitable location information.

[0179] In box 922, AP 310 can determine the location of STA 314 based on the distances (determined in box 918) and that location information. In some implementations, AP 310 can determine the location of STA 314 using two or more distances to a known location (such as the corresponding distances from STA 314 to AP 312 and AP 310). If fewer than three distances exist, AP 310 can represent the location of STA 314 using a set of coordinates indicating a point where STA 314 can reside. If three or more distances exist (such as when the distance information involves three or more APs), AP 310 can use trilateration to determine a single point representing the location of STA 314.

[0180] In box 924, AP 310 can determine whether the location of STA 314 is suitable for guidance. In some implementations, AP 310 can make this determination based on guidance information 318. In some implementations, guidance information 318 can indicate guidance decisions to be made at various locations. By using the location of STA 314 as an index to guidance information 318, AP 310 can obtain the guidance decision associated with that location. In some implementations, guidance information 318 may include other information, such as the target AP to which STA 314 will be guided, distance information related to the WLAN device, location information related to the WLAN device, signal information related to the WLAN device, and any other suitable information that can provide a basis for determining whether to guide the WLAN device. If the location is not suitable for guidance, the operation continues in box 902. If the location is suitable for guidance, the operation continues in box 914.

[0181] If the operation moves from box 924 to box 914, AP 310 can guide STA 314 to the target AP (such as AP 312) indicated in the guidance information 318.

[0182] Figure 10 A system diagram of an example WLAN is shown, which includes a RE configured to perform operations for placing the RE based on RTT information obtained from the AP. Figure 10 The WLAN 1000 shown is based on Figure 1The example WLAN 1000 is described below. WLAN 1000 includes RE 1010 and AP 1002. Although not shown for simplicity, WLAN 1000 may include one or more STAs, which may include one or more additional APs and one or more additional non-AP STAs. In some implementations, WLAN 1000 may be configured as a mesh network, which may include AP 1002, RE 1010, and one or more additional APs. AP 1002 may be a central AP (CAP), where CAP is an AP connected to a gateway device (not shown) that provides connectivity to another network. RE may be an AP that can extend coverage area by receiving and retransmitting radio signals between WLAN devices. RE may extend the service of CAP and may be connected to CAP via a wired or wireless link. In some implementations, RE 1010 may be an AP within WLAN 1000 that can receive and retransmit radio signals between AP 1002 and STAs (not shown) in the WLAN to extend the coverage area of ​​AP 1002. RE 1010 and AP 1002 may be... Figure 1 AP 102, Figure 19A AP 1902 or Figure 19B Example implementation of STA1904.

[0183] RE 1010 may include a measurement unit 1018. Measurement unit 1018 may determine the distance from RE 1010 to AP 1002 based on RTT information. Measurement unit 1018 may determine the distance from RE 1010 to AP 1002 based on RTT information derived from FTM frames exchanged with AP 1002. The FTM frame may include a timestamp that can be used to derive the RTT between RE 1010 and AP 1002. Using the RTT, measurement unit 1018 may determine a first distance between RE 1010 and AP 1002.

[0184] Initially, RE 1010 can be located at a first position 1026. A first distance threshold indicates a minimum acceptable distance 1012 between RE 1010 and AP 1002. A second distance threshold indicates a maximum acceptable distance 1016 between RE 1010 and AP 1002. Distance range 1008 can include the range of acceptable distances between RE 1010 and AP 1002. Circles 1004 and 1006 illustrate the spatial relationship between RE 1010 and the minimum acceptable distance 1012, the maximum acceptable distance 1016, and the distance range 1008. Initially, RE 1010 is farther from AP 1002 than the maximum acceptable distance (outside circle 1006) and outside the acceptable distance range (not between circles 1004 and 1006).

[0185] RE 1010 may also include a placement unit 1020. Placement unit 1020 can perform both coarse placement and fine placement operations for RE 1010. For coarse placement, RE 1010 can compare a first distance from itself to AP 1002 with a first distance threshold and a second distance threshold to determine if RE 1010 is within distance range 1008 (between circles 1004 and 1006). If RE 1010 is outside distance range 1008, RE 1010 can determine if it is within a minimum acceptable distance (within circle 1006). If RE 1010 is within the minimum acceptable distance, RE 1010 can provide a coarse placement indicator instructing that RE 1010 be moved further away from AP 1002. If RE 1010 is outside the maximum acceptable distance (outside circle 1006), RE 1010 can provide a rough placement indicator to suggest moving RE 1010 closer to AP 1002.

[0186] At the first position 1026, RE 1010 is farther from AP 1002 than the maximum acceptable distance. Placement unit 1020 can compare the first distance to AP 1002 with a first distance threshold and a second distance threshold, and determine that RE 1010 is farther from AP 1002 than the maximum acceptable distance. In response to determining that RE 1010 is farther from AP 1002 than the maximum acceptable distance, RE 1010 can provide a coarse placement indicator indicating that RE 1010 should be moved closer to AP 1002.

[0187] In response to the coarse placement indicator, RE 1010 can be repositioned to the second position 1028. RE 1010 can repeat the coarse placement operation until it is within the distance range 1008. Continuing with coarse placement, RE 1010 determines a second distance between itself and AP 1002 and determines whether it is within the distance range 1008. At the second position 1028, RE 1010 is within the distance range 1008. If RE 1010 is within this distance range, it displays a coarse placement indicator indicating that RE 1010 should remain in its current position.

[0188] Placement unit 1020 may include distance information 1022 and signal information 1024. Distance information 1022 may indicate the relationship between the distance from RE 1010 to AP 1002, a distance threshold, and a coarse placement indicator. For example, relationship 1030 may include:

[0189] 1) If the distance is less than the first distance threshold (denoted as...) Figure 10DT1 in the diagram provides a rough placement indicator (shown as) for moving further away from AP1002. Figure 10 (See CPI in the middle) Figure 10 Distance information (1030);

[0190] 2) If the second distance threshold (shown as) Figure 10 If the distance (DT2) is greater than or equal to the first distance threshold (DT1), then a coarse placement indicator is provided to maintain the position (see [reference]). Figure 10 Distance information (1030) in the middle; and

[0191] 2) If the distance is greater than the second distance threshold (DT2), a coarse placement indicator is provided to move closer to the AP (see [link]). Figure 10 (Distance information 1030 in the data).

[0192] Distance thresholds and relationships can be configured to extend the coverage area of ​​AP 1002 and provide appropriate signal strength to RE 1010. Distance information 1022 may include one or more distance thresholds, coarse placement indicators, and other information suitable for performing coarse placement of RE 1010.

[0193] In some implementations, RE 1010 can also perform fine placement operations. For fine placement, RE 1010 can provide an indication of its placement based on signal strength. For example, RE 1010 can obtain the RSSI associated with AP 1002. Placement unit 1020 can determine a fine placement indicator based on this RSSI and provide the fine placement indicator to assist in placing RE 1010 in the environment, such as... Figure 11 Further details are provided below.

[0194] Figure 11 A system diagram of an example WLAN is shown, which includes a RE configured to perform operations for fine placement based on signal strength information obtained from the AP. Figure 11 It is a reference Figure 10 To describe, and as in Figure 10 As described herein, WLAN 1000 may include RE 1010 and AP 1002.

[0195] like Figure 11As shown, RE 1010 can be located at position 1028 within a distance range 1008. The distance range 1008 can be an acceptable distance range for coarse placement of RE 1010. If within the distance range 1008, RE 1010 can perform operations for fine placement. For fine placement, RE 1010 can determine the signal strength of AP 1002. RE 1010 can establish a network association 1102 with AP 1002 to determine the signal strength of AP 1002. Signal strength can be represented by RSSI. RE 1010 can compare the signal strength to one or more signal strength thresholds to determine whether the signal strength is too high, too low, or within an acceptable range.

[0196] A first signal strength threshold indicates the maximum acceptable signal strength from AP 1002. A second signal strength threshold indicates the minimum acceptable signal strength from AP 1002. A signal strength range indicates the range of acceptable signal strengths from AP 1002. If the signal strength is greater than the first signal strength threshold, RE 1010 can provide a fine placement indicator indicating to move further away from AP 1002. If the signal strength is less than the second signal strength threshold, RE 1010 can provide a fine placement indicator indicating to move closer to AP 1002. If the signal strength is greater than or equal to the second signal strength threshold and less than or equal to the first signal strength threshold, RE 1010 can provide a fine placement indicator indicating to leave RE 1010 in its current position.

[0197] As mentioned, placement unit 1020 may include signal information 1024. Signal information 1024 may indicate the relationship between signal strength destined for AP, signal strength threshold, and fine placement indicator. For example, relationship 1104 may include:

[0198] 1) If the signal strength (shown as) Figure 11 If the signal strength (SS) is greater than the first signal strength threshold (SST1), a fine placement indicator (FPI) is provided to indicate that the AP 1002 should be moved further away.

[0199] 2) If the signal strength is less than or equal to a first signal strength threshold (SST1) and the signal strength is greater than or equal to a second signal strength threshold (SST2), a fine placement indicator is provided to indicate that the signal is held in the current position; and

[0200] 3) If the signal strength is less than a second signal strength threshold (SST2), a fine placement indicator is provided to indicate moving closer to AP1002. The signal strength thresholds and relationships can be configured to expand the coverage area of ​​AP1002 and provide appropriate signal strength to RE1010. Signal information 1024 may include one or more signal strength thresholds, fine placement indicators, and other information suitable for performing fine placement of RE 1010.

[0201] Figure 12 The process 1200, described and explained, is an example operation performed by a device of a first WLAN device for placing an RE in the environment using RTT information. Process 1200 can be performed by a wireless communication device (such as [reference 1]). Figure 18 and 20 The described wireless communication device 1800 or electronic device 2000 may perform this process. In some implementations, process 1200 may be performed by an AP (such as, see respective...). Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 19A The process 1200 is performed by a wireless communication device that operates or operates within an AP (such as one of the described APs 102, 310, 312, and 1902). In some implementations, process 1200 may be performed by a RE (such as those described in reference 102, 310, 312, and 1902). Figure 10 and Figure 11 The described RE 1010) is used to execute.

[0202] In block 1210, the means of the first WLAN device can determine a first distance from the first WLAN device to the second WLAN device based at least in part on FTM frames exchanged with the second WLAN device.

[0203] In block 1220, the means of the first WLAN device can determine whether the first WLAN device is within the range of the second WLAN device, at least in part, based on a first distance. In some implementations, the means of the first WLAN device can be configured to provide coarse placement assistance. Coarse placement assistance may include a coarse placement indicator.

[0204] In box 1230, the means of the first WLAN device can determine the signal strength associated with the second WLAN device within the distance range in response to the second WLAN device.

[0205] In box 1240, the device of the first WLAN device can compare the signal strength with one or more signal strength thresholds.

[0206] In box 1250, the device of the first WLAN device can provide fine placement indicators based on the comparison.

[0207] Figure 13 The process 1300, described and explained, is an example operation performed by a device of a first WLAN device for placing an RE in the environment using RTT information. Process 1300 can be performed by a wireless communication device (such as [reference 1]). Figure 18 and 20 The described wireless communication device 1800 or electronic device 2000 may perform this process. In some implementations, process 1300 may be performed by an AP (such as, see below) Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 19A and Figure 20 The process 1300 is performed by a wireless communication device that operates or operates within an AP (such as one of the described APs 102, 310, 312, 1902, and 2000). In some implementations, process 1300 may be performed by a RE (such as those described in reference 102, 310, 312, 1902, and 2000). Figure 10 and Figure 11 The described RE 1010) is used to execute.

[0208] In block 1310, the means of the first WLAN device can determine a first distance from the first WLAN device to the second WLAN device based at least in part on FTM frames exchanged with the second WLAN device.

[0209] In block 1320, the means of the first WLAN device can determine whether the first WLAN device is within the range of the second WLAN device, at least in part, based on a first distance. In some implementations, the means of the first WLAN device can be configured to provide coarse placement assistance. Coarse placement assistance may include a coarse placement indicator.

[0210] In block 1330, the means of the first WLAN device can determine channel state information (CSI) associated with the second WLAN device within the distance range in response to the second WLAN device.

[0211] In box 1340, the device of the first WLAN device can compare the CSI with one or more CSI thresholds.

[0212] In box 1350, the device of the first WLAN device can provide fine placement indicators based on the comparison.

[0213] Figure 14 The present invention describes a process 1400 for example operation of coarsely placing a RE in a WLAN that may contain an AP with FTM capability. For an AP with FTM capability, the RE can use FTM frames during the coarse placement of the RE. Process 1400 can be described by wireless communication devices (such as those described in reference 1400). Figure 18 and20 The described wireless communication device 1800 or electronic device 2000 is used to perform this process. In some implementations, process 1400 may be performed by an AP (such as referred to separately). Figure 10 and Figure 11 The described RE1010 is used to operate or to operate within an AP in a wireless communication device. The description of flowchart 1400 will refer to RE 1010 and reference... Figure 10 Other devices described.

[0214] In box 1402, RE 1010 can determine whether AP 1002 has FTM capability. AP 1002 can receive a capability element indicating that RE 1010 can act as an FTM responder. The capability element may be included in the beacon or in the information exchanged during association. If RE 1010 receives an information element indicating that AP 1002 can act as an FTM responder, then AP 1002 has FTM capability. Otherwise, RE does not have FTM capability. If AP 1002 has FTM capability, operation can continue in box 1404. Otherwise, operation continues in box 1422.

[0215] In box 1404, RE 1010 can exchange FTM frames with AP 1002. FTM frames may include timestamps or other timing information that can be used to derive the RTT from the RE to the AP. RE 1010 can exchange FTM frames without creating a network association with AP 1002.

[0216] In box 1406, RE 1010 can determine the distance based on the FTM frame. RE 1010 can determine the distance based on the RTT associated with the FTM frame.

[0217] In box 1408, RE 1010 can compare the distance to one or more distance thresholds. For example, RE 1010 can compare the distance to two distance thresholds. A first distance threshold indicates the minimum distance between RE 1010 and AP 1002. A second distance threshold indicates the maximum distance between RE 1010 and AP 1002. The first and second distance thresholds together indicate the range of distances in which RE 1010 can be placed. If the distance (determined in box 1406) is less than the first distance threshold (in box 1410), the operation continues in box 1412. If the first distance is greater than the first distance threshold (in box 1410), the operation continues in box 1414.

[0218] In box 1412, RE 1010 can provide a coarse placement indicator to indicate that RE should be moved further away from AP 1002. The operation continues in box 1404. RE 1010 can be repeated for the coarse placement operation until RE 1010 is within the distance range of AP 1002.

[0219] In box 1414, RE 1010 can determine (as determined in box 1406) whether the distance is greater than a second distance threshold. For example, the second distance threshold may indicate the maximum distance between RE 1010 and AP 1002. RE 1010 can determine whether the distance between RE 1010 and AP 1002 is greater than the maximum distance. If the distance is greater than the second distance threshold, the operation continues in box 1416. If the distance is not greater than the second distance threshold, the operation continues in box 1418.

[0220] In box 1416, RE 1010 can provide a coarse placement indicator to indicate that it should be moved closer to AP. For example, RE 1010 can provide a coarse placement indicator by flashing a light indicating that RE 1010 should be moved closer to AP 1002. The coarse placement indicator can include or be associated with any suitable media (such as audio, sound, video, and flash). RE 1010 can present the media. RE 1010 can cause the media to be presented by providing the coarse placement indicator to another device (such as a WLAN device or any suitable device not connected to WLAN 1000). RE 1010 can repeat the operation for coarse placement until RE 1010 is within range of AP 1002.

[0221] In box 1418, RE 1010 can provide a rough placement indicator to indicate whether to remain in the current position. For example, RE 1010 may be located within a distance range of AP 1002. Because RE 1010 is within this distance range, RE 1010 can provide a rough placement indicator to indicate whether to remain in the current position.

[0222] Returning to reference box 1402, if AP 1002 does not have FTM capability, the operation can continue in box 1422. If the AP does not have FTM capability, RE 1010 does not perform coarse placement based on the RTT information received from AP 1002. Instead, RE 1010 can use signal strength to assist in placing RE 1010 in the environment. In box 1422, RE 1010 can establish a network association with AP 1002.

[0223] In box 1424, RE 1010 can determine the signal strength of AP 1002. RE 1010 can determine the RSSI for AP 1002.

[0224] In box 1426, RE 1010 can provide indication of its placement based on the signal strength. If the signal strength is too high, RE 1010 can provide indication to move further away from AP 1002. If the signal strength is too low, RE 1010 can provide indication to move closer to AP 1002. If the signal strength is within the acceptable range, RE 1010 can provide indication to remain in its current position. Although the operations at boxes 1422, 1424, and 1426 involve signal strength and the placement of RE 1010, these operations may differ from the fine placement operations for RE 1010 described herein.

[0225] Figure 15 Example operation of process 1500 for coarse and fine placement of REs in a WLAN including one or more APs with FTM capability is described. Process 1500 can be performed by wireless communication devices (such as those described in reference 1500). Figure 18 and 20 The described wireless communication device 1800 or electronic device 2000 is used to perform this process. In some implementations, process 1500 may be performed by an AP (such as referred to separately). Figure 10 and Figure 11 The described RE 1010 is used to operate or to operate within an AP in a wireless communication device. The description of flowchart 1500 will refer to RE 1010 and reference... Figure 10 Other devices described.

[0226] In box 1502, RE 1010 can determine whether it has established a network association with AP 1002. If a network association has not yet been established, the operation continues in box 1502. If RE 1010 has established a network association with AP 1002, RE 1010 may have received a capability element indicating that AP 1002 can act as an FTM responder. If RE 1010 has established a network association with AP 1002, the operation continues in box 1504.

[0227] In box 1504, RE 1010 can exchange FTM frames with AP 1002. The FTM frame may include a timestamp or other timing information that can be used to export the RTT from RE 1010 to AP 1002.

[0228] In box 1506, RE 1010 can determine the distance based on the FTM frame. The RE can determine the distance based on the RTT associated with the FTM frame.

[0229] In box 1508, RE 1010 can compare this distance to two distance thresholds. A first distance threshold indicates the minimum distance between RE 1010 and AP 1002. A second distance threshold indicates the maximum distance between RE 1010 and AP 1002. Together, the first and second distance thresholds indicate the range of distances within which RE 1010 can be placed. If the distance (determined in box 1506) is less than the first distance threshold, the operation continues in box 1512. If the first distance is greater than the first distance threshold, the operation continues in box 1514.

[0230] In box 1512, RE 1010 can provide a coarse placement indicator to move RE 1010 further away from AP 1002. The operation continues in box 1504. RE 1010 can be repeated for the coarse placement operation until RE 1010 is within range of AP 1002.

[0231] In box 1514, RE 1010 can determine (as determined in box 1506) whether the distance is greater than a second distance threshold. For example, the second distance threshold may indicate the maximum distance between RE 1010 and AP 1002. RE 1010 can determine whether the distance between RE 1010 and AP 1002 is greater than the maximum distance. If the distance is greater than the second distance threshold, the operation continues in box 1516. If the distance is not greater than the second distance threshold, the operation continues in box 1518.

[0232] In box 1516, RE 1010 can provide a coarse placement indicator to indicate that it should be moved closer to AP. For example, RE 1010 can provide a coarse placement indicator by flashing a light to indicate that RE 1010 should be moved closer to AP 1002. RE 1010 can be repeated for coarse placement until RE 1010 is within range of AP 1002.

[0233] In box 1518, RE 1010 can provide a rough placement indicator to indicate whether to maintain the current position. For example, RE 1010 may be located within a distance range of AP 1002. Because RE 1010 is within this distance range, RE 1010 can provide a rough placement indicator to indicate whether to maintain the current position. This process can be performed within... Figure 16 Continue at box 1622 shown.

[0234] Figure 16 Additional example operations for coarse and fine placement of REs in a WLAN including one or more APs with FTM capability are explained in section 1500. From box 1518 ( Figure 15 (As shown in the diagram), the operation can continue in box 1622.

[0235] In box 1622, RE 1010 can determine the signal strength associated with AP 1002. For example, RE 1010 can determine the RSSI for AP 1002.

[0236] In box 1624, RE 1010 can determine whether the signal strength is less than a first signal strength threshold. The first signal strength threshold can indicate the minimum signal strength relative to AP 1002. If the signal strength is less than the first signal strength threshold, the operation continues in box 1626. Otherwise, the operation continues in box 1628.

[0237] In box 1628, RE 1010 can determine whether the signal strength is greater than a second signal strength threshold. The second signal strength threshold can indicate the maximum signal strength relative to AP 1002. If the signal strength is greater than the second signal strength threshold, the operation continues in box 1632. If the signal strength is less than the second signal strength threshold, the operation continues in box 1630.

[0238] In box 1632, RE 1010 can provide a fine placement indicator to indicate whether to move further away from AP 1002. Operation continues in box 1504. Figure 15 (As shown in the image).

[0239] In box 1630, RE 1010 can provide a fine placement indicator indicating that the current position should be maintained. For operation to reach box 1630, the signal strength must be within a range greater than or equal to the minimum signal strength and less than or equal to the maximum signal strength. Because the signal strength is within this range, RE 1010 can provide a fine placement indicator indicating that the current position should be maintained.

[0240] Returning to reference box 1624, if the signal strength is less than a first signal strength threshold, the operation continues in box 1626. In box 1626, RE 1010 can provide a fine placement indicator indicating whether to move closer to AP 1002. The operation can continue in box 1504. Figure 15 (As shown in the image).

[0241] Figure 17 Example operation of procedure 1700 for coarse and fine placement of REs in a WLAN using Channel State Information (CSI) is described. Procedure 1700 can be performed by wireless communication devices (such as those described in reference 1700). Figure 18 and 20 The described wireless communication device 1800 or electronic device 2000 is used to perform this process. In some implementations, process 1700 may be performed by an AP (such as referred to separately). Figure 10 and Figure 11The described RE 1010 is used to operate or to operate within an AP in a wireless communication device. The description of flowchart 1700 will refer to RE1010 and reference... Figure 10 Other devices described.

[0242] In some implementations, RE 1010 can perform operations for Figure 15 The diagram shows the coarse placement operation. After executing box 1518, RE 1010 can execute procedure 1700, which begins at box 1722. In procedure 1700, RE 1010 can use CSI to determine fine placement in the environment.

[0243] In box 1722, RE 1010 can determine the CSI based on communications received from AP 1002. The CSI information can be an instantaneous CSI or a short-term CSI. In some implementations, RE 1010 can estimate the CSI based on communications received from AP 1002 on a per-subcarrier basis (e.g., on a per-orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) subcarrier basis). The CSI determined by the receiving device (e.g., RE 1010) can also be referred to as the receiver CSI (or CSIR). The CSI can indicate the channel characteristics of the communication channel between AP 1002 and RE 1010 on a per-subcarrier basis. For example, the CSI can indicate how a signal propagates from AP 1002 to RE 1010 and can represent the combined effects of scattering, fading, and power attenuation over the distance between AP 1002 and RE 1010. In some implementations, the CSI can indicate the CSI amplitude on a per-subcarrier basis. The CSI amplitude can indicate the signal strength on a per-subcarrier basis. In some implementations, CSI can also indicate the CSI phase on a per-subcarrier basis.

[0244] In box 1724, RE 1010 can determine whether the CSI is less than a first CSI threshold. In some implementations, the CSI can be a CSI amplitude, and the first CSI threshold can be a first CSI amplitude threshold. In some implementations, the CSI can be an aggregation of CSI amplitudes derived on a per-subcarrier basis, which can be referred to as the aggregated CSI amplitude. For example, RE 1010 can determine the aggregated CSI amplitude by determining the average of the CSI amplitudes derived on a per-subcarrier basis. As another example, RE 1010 can determine the aggregated CSI by determining the average of the sums of the squared values ​​of each CSI amplitude derived on a per-subcarrier basis. The first CSI amplitude threshold can indicate the minimum aggregated CSI amplitude. In some implementations, RE 1010 can compare the aggregated CSI amplitude with the first CSI amplitude threshold to determine whether the aggregated CSI amplitude is less than the first CSI amplitude threshold. If the CSI is less than the first CSI threshold, the process continues in box 1728. Otherwise, the process continues in box 1726.

[0245] In box 1726, RE 1010 can determine whether the CSI is greater than a second CSI threshold. In some implementations, the second CSI threshold may be a second CSI amplitude threshold. The second CSI amplitude threshold may indicate the maximum aggregated CSI amplitude. In some implementations, RE 1010 can compare the aggregated CSI amplitude with the second CSI amplitude threshold to determine whether the aggregated CSI amplitude is greater than the second CSI amplitude threshold. If the CSI is greater than the second CSI threshold, the operation continues in box 1732. If the signal strength is less than the second signal strength threshold, the operation continues in box 1730.

[0246] In box 1732, RE 1010 can provide a fine placement indicator to indicate whether to move further away from AP 1002. Operation continues in box 1504. Figure 15 (As shown in the image).

[0247] In box 1730, RE 1010 can provide a fine placement indicator to indicate that the current position should be maintained. For operation to reach box 1730, the CSI can be within a CSI range greater than or equal to the minimum CSI and less than or equal to the maximum CSI. Because this CSI is within this range, RE 1010 can provide a fine placement indicator to indicate that the current position should be maintained.

[0248] Returning to reference box 1724, if the CSI is less than the first CSI threshold, the operation continues in box 1728. In box 1728, RE 1010 can provide a fine placement indicator indicating whether to move closer to AP 1002. The operation can continue in box 1504. Figure 15 (As shown in the image).

[0249] In some implementations, network 1000 can utilize operations related to CSI from the transmitting device (CSIT) and CSIR to provide placement assistance for AP 1002.

[0250] In some implementations, RE 1010 may also use CSIT in providing placement guidance. RE 1010 may obtain CSIT information from AP 1002 (as in box 1722). In some implementations, RE 1010 may compare CSIT with CSIR to determine information related to one or more of scattering, fading, and power attenuation (as in box 1724). This comparison of CSIT with CSIR may provide a value greater than, equal to, or less than a first CSI threshold. If the value is less than the first CSI threshold (as in box 1724), RE 1010 may provide a fine placement indicator to move closer to AP 1002 (as in box 1728), or RE 1010 may make a further comparison with a second CSI threshold (as in box 1726). If the comparison of CSIT with CSIR is greater than the second CSI threshold, RE 1010 may provide a fine placement indicator to maintain its current position (as in box 1730). Alternatively, RE can provide fine placement indicators (such as in box 1732) for moving further away from AP 1002.

[0251] Figure 18 A block diagram of an example wireless communication device 1800 is shown. In some implementations, wireless communication device 1800 may be an example of a device for use in a STA (such as one of the STAs 104 described herein). In some implementations, wireless communication device 1800 may be an example of a device for use in an AP (such as AP 102 described herein). Wireless communication device 1800 may generally be referred to as a device or wireless communication apparatus. Wireless communication device 1800 is capable of transmitting (or outputting for transmission) and receiving wireless communications (e.g., in the form of wireless packets). For example, wireless communication device 1800 may be configured to transmit and receive packets in the form of PPDUs and MPDUs conforming to IEEE 802.11 standards (such as those defined by the IEEE 802.11-2016 specification or its amendments, including but not limited to 802.11ah, 802.11ad, 802.11ay, 802.11ax, 802.11az, 802.11ba, and 802.11be in addition to future 802.11 standards).

[0252] The wireless communication device 1800 may be or may include a chip, system-on-a-chip (SoC), chipset, package, or device that includes one or more modems 1802 (e.g., a Wi-Fi (compliant with IEEE 802.11) modem). In some implementations, the one or more modems 1802 (collectively, “Modem 1802”) additionally include a WWAN modem (e.g., a 3GPP 4G LTE or 5G compatible modem). In some implementations, the wireless communication device 1800 also includes one or more radios 1804 (collectively, “Radio 1804”). In some implementations, the wireless communication device 1800 further includes one or more processors, processing blocks, or processing elements (collectively, “Processor 1806”) and one or more memory blocks or elements (collectively, “Memory 1808”).

[0253] Modem 1802 may include intelligent hardware blocks or devices (e.g., application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) and other possibilities). Modem 1802 is generally configured to implement a PHY layer. For example, modem 1802 is configured to modulate packets and output modulated packets to radio 1804 for transmission over a wireless medium. Similarly, modem 1802 is configured to acquire modulated packets received by radio 1804 and demodulate these packets to provide demodulated packets. In addition to modulators and demodulators, modem 1802 may further include digital signal processing (DSP) circuitry, automatic gain control (AGC), encoders, decoders, multiplexers, and demultiplexers. For example, when in transmission mode, data acquired from processor 1806 is provided to a decoder, which encodes the data to provide encoded bits. The encoded bits are mapped to points in a modulation constellation (using a selected MCS) to provide modulated symbols. The modulated symbols may be mapped to several (N) points. SS One) spatial flow or several (N) STS (1) space-time stream. The modulated symbols in the corresponding space stream or space-time stream can be multiplexed, transformed via an inverse fast Fourier transform (IFFT) block, and subsequently provided to the DSP circuitry for Tx windowing and filtering. The digital signal can be provided to a digital-to-analog converter (DAC). The resulting analog signal can be provided to an upconverter and ultimately to Radio 1804. In implementations involving beamforming, the modulated symbols in the corresponding space stream are pre-coded via a steering matrix before being provided to the IFFT block.

[0254] In receive mode, the digital signal received from radio 1804 is provided to a DSP circuitry system configured to acquire the received signal, for example, by detecting the presence of the signal and estimating the initial timing and frequency offset. The DSP circuitry system is further configured to digitally condition the digital signal, for example, using channel (narrowband) filtering, analog impairment conditioning (such as correcting I / Q imbalance), and applying digital gain to ultimately obtain a narrowband signal. The output of the DSP circuitry system can be fed to an AGC, which is configured to use information extracted from the digital signal (e.g., in one or more received training fields) to determine the appropriate gain. The output of the DSP circuitry system is also coupled to a demodulator configured to extract modulated symbols from the signal and, for example, calculate the log-likelihood ratio (LLR) for each bit position of each subcarrier in each spatial stream. The demodulator is coupled to a decoder configured to process the LLR to provide decoded bits. The decoded bits from all spatial streams are fed to a demultiplexer for demultiplexing. Demultiplexed bits can be descrambled and provided to the MAC layer (processor 1806) for processing, evaluation, or interpretation.

[0255] Radio 1804 generally includes at least one radio frequency (RF) transmitter (or “transmitter chain”) and at least one RF receiver (or “receiver chain”), which can be combined into one or more transceivers. For example, the RF transmitter and receiver may include various DSP circuitry systems, each including at least one power amplifier (PA) and at least one low-noise amplifier (LNA). The RF transmitter and receiver may further be coupled to one or more antennas. For example, in some implementations, wireless communication device 1800 may include or be coupled to multiple transmit antennas (each with a corresponding transmit chain) and multiple receive antennas (each with a corresponding receive chain). Symbols output from modem 1802 are provided to radio 1804, which transmits the symbols via the coupled antennas. Similarly, symbols received via the antennas are acquired by radio 1804, which provides the symbols to modem 1802. In some implementations, radio 1804 and one or more antennas may form one or more network interfaces (which may also be referred to as “interfaces”).

[0256] Processor 1806 may include intelligent hardware blocks or devices designed to perform the functions described herein, such as, for example, processing cores, processing blocks, central processing units (CPUs), microprocessors, microcontrollers, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), programmable logic devices (PLDs) (such as field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs)), discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof. Processor 1806 processes information received via radio 1804 and modem 1802, and processes information to be output via modem 1802 and radio 1804 for transmission over a wireless medium. For example, processor 1806 may implement a control plane and a MAC layer, configured to perform various operations related to the generation and transmission of MPDUs, frames, or packets. The MAC layer is configured to perform or facilitate frame decoding and decoding, spatial multiplexing, space-time block decoding (STBC), beamforming, and OFDMA resource allocation, and other operations or techniques. In some implementations, processor 1806 may generally control modem 1802 to cause the modem to perform the various operations described above.

[0257] Memory 1808 may include tangible storage media, such as random access memory (RAM) or read-only memory (ROM), or combinations thereof. Memory 1808 may also store non-transient processor or computer-executable software (SW) code containing instructions that, when executed by processor 1806, cause the processor to perform various operations described herein for wireless communication, including the generation, transmission, reception, and interpretation of MPDUs, frames, or packets. For example, the various functions of the components disclosed herein, or the various blocks or steps of the methods, operations, processes, or algorithms disclosed herein, may be implemented as one or more modules of one or more computer programs.

[0258] In some implementations, the wireless communication device 1800 may include a measuring unit (not shown) and a guiding unit (not shown). The measuring unit and the guiding unit may be similar to those described in the reference. Figure 3 The measurement unit 306 and the guide unit 308 described herein can implement any of the operations described herein for position-aware guidance.

[0259] In some implementations, the wireless communication device 1800 may include a measuring unit (not shown) and a placement unit (not shown), the measuring unit and the placement unit being similar to a reference. Figure 10 The measurement unit 1018 and placement unit 1020 are described, and can perform any of the operations described herein for coarse and fine placement.

[0260] In some implementations, the measuring unit, the placement unit, and the guiding unit may be implemented by a processor 1806 and a memory 1808. The memory 1808 may include computer instructions executable by the processor 1806 to implement the functionality of the probe signal unit. Any of these functionalities may be implemented partially (or entirely) in hardware or on the processor 1806.

[0261] In some implementations, the processor 1806 and memory 1808 of the wireless communication device 1800 may be referred to as a processing system. A processing system generally refers to a system or series of machines or components that receive inputs and process those inputs to produce a set of outputs (which can be passed to other systems or components such as one of STA 104 or one of AP 102). In some implementations, the processing system may include the processor 1806, memory 1808, and one or more other components of the wireless communication device 1800, such as a modem 1802.

[0262] In some implementations, the processing system of STA 104 can interface with other components of STA 104 and can process information (such as inputs or signals) received from other components, output information to other components, etc. For example, the chip or modem of STA 104 (such as wireless communication device 1800) may include a processing system and one or more interfaces. These one or more interfaces may include a first interface for receiving or acquiring information, and a second interface for outputting, transmitting, or providing information. In some cases, the first interface may refer to the interface between the processing system of the chip or modem and the receiver, allowing STA 104 to receive information or signal input, and such information can be transmitted to the processing system. In some cases, the second interface may refer to the interface between the processing system of the chip or modem and the transmitter, allowing STA 104 to transmit information output from the chip or modem. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize that the second interface may also acquire or receive information or signal input, and the first interface may also output, transmit, or provide information.

[0263] In some implementations, the processing system of AP 102 can interface with other components of AP 102 and can process information (such as inputs or signals) received from other components, output information to other components, etc. For example, the chip or modem of AP 102 (such as wireless communication device 1800) may include a processing system, a first interface for receiving or acquiring information, and a second interface for outputting, transmitting, or providing information. In some cases, the first interface may refer to the interface between the processing system of the chip or modem and the receiver, allowing AP 102 to receive information or signal input, and such information can be transmitted to the processing system. In some cases, the second interface may refer to the interface between the processing system of the chip or modem and the transmitter, allowing AP 102 to transmit information output from the chip or modem. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize that the second interface can also acquire or receive information or signal input, and the first interface can also output, transmit, or provide information.

[0264] Figure 19A A block diagram of an example AP 1902 is shown. For example, AP 1902 could be an example implementation of the AP 102 described herein. AP 1902 includes a wireless communication device (WCD) 1910. For example, wireless communication device 1910 could be a reference... Figure 18 An example implementation of the described wireless communication device 1800 is described. AP 1902 also includes a plurality of antennas 1920 coupled to the wireless communication device 1910 for transmitting and receiving wireless communications. In some implementations, AP 1902 additionally includes an application processor 1930 coupled to the wireless communication device 1910, and a memory 1940 coupled to the application processor 1930. AP 1902 further includes at least one external network interface 1950, which enables AP 1902 to communicate with a core network or backhaul network to obtain access to external networks, including the Internet. For example, external network interface 1950 may include one or both of a wired (e.g., Ethernet) network interface and a wireless network interface (such as a WWAN interface). Components of the foregoing can communicate directly or indirectly with other components of these components on at least one bus. AP 1902 further includes a housing that encloses the wireless communication device 1910, application processor 1930, memory 1940, and at least a portion of the antennas 1920 and external network interface 1950.

[0265] Figure 19B A block diagram of an example STA 1904 is shown. For example, STA 1904 could be an example implementation of the STA 104 described herein. STA 1904 includes a wireless communication device 1915. For example, wireless communication device 1915 could be a reference... Figure 9An example implementation of the described wireless communication device 1800. STA 1904 also includes one or more antennas 1925 coupled to the wireless communication device 1915 for transmitting and receiving wireless communications. STA 1904 additionally includes an application processor 1935 coupled to the wireless communication device 1915, and a memory 1945 coupled to the application processor 1935. In some implementations, STA 1904 further includes a user interface (UI) 1955 (such as a touchscreen or keyboard) and a display 1965, which can be integrated with the UI 1955 to form a touchscreen display. In some implementations, STA 1904 may further include one or more sensors 1975 (for example, such as one or more inertial sensors, accelerometers, temperature sensors, pressure sensors, or altitude sensors). Components of the foregoing can communicate directly or indirectly with other components of these components on at least one bus. STA 1904 further includes a housing that encloses at least portions of the wireless communication device 1915, the application processor 1935, the memory 1945, and the antenna 1925, the UI 1955, and the display 1965.

[0266] Figure 20 A block diagram of an example electronic device for implementing various aspects of this disclosure is shown. In some implementations, electronic device 2000 may be an access point (AP, including any AP described herein), a range extender, a station (including any STA described herein), or another electronic system. Electronic device 2000 may include processor 2002 (potentially including multiple processors, multiple cores, multiple nodes, or implementing multithreading, etc.). Electronic device 2000 may also include memory 2006. Memory 2006 may be system memory or any of the possible implementations of the computer-readable medium described herein. In some implementations, processor 2002 and memory 2006 may be referred to as a processing system. Electronic device 2000 may also include bus 2010 (such as PCI, ISA, PCI-Express, Hyper... AHB, AXI, etc.) and one or more network interfaces 2004 (which may also be referred to as "interfaces"), the one or more network interfaces 2004 including wireless network interfaces (such as WLAN interfaces, interface, interface, The electronic device 2000 may have at least one of a network interface (such as a wireless USB interface, etc.) and a wired network interface (such as an Ethernet interface, a powerline communication interface, etc.). In some implementations, the electronic device 2000 may support multiple network interfaces, each of which is configured to couple the electronic device 2000 to a different communication network.

[0267] Electronic device 2000 may include a measuring unit 306 and a guiding unit 308, which can implement operations for location-aware guidance as described herein. In some implementations, the measuring unit 306 and the guiding unit 308 may be distributed within processor 2002 and memory 2006. The measuring unit 306 and the guiding unit 308 can perform some or all of the location-aware guidance operations described in this disclosure.

[0268] Electronic device 2000 may include a measurement unit 1018 and a placement unit 1020, which can perform coarse and fine placement operations for RE as described herein. In some implementations, the measurement unit 1018 and the placement unit 1020 may be distributed within processor 2002 and memory 2006.

[0269] The memory 2006 may include computer instructions that can be executed by the processor 2002 to implement... Figure 1-20 The functionality of each implementation described herein. Any of these functionalities may be implemented partially (or entirely) in hardware or on the processor 2002. For example, the functionality may be implemented using an application-specific integrated circuit, in logic implemented in the processor 2002, in a coprocessor on a peripheral device or card, etc. Furthermore, each implementation may include fewer components or include Figure 20 Additional components not described herein (such as video cards, audio cards, additional network interfaces, peripherals, etc.). Processor 2002, memory 2006, and network interface 2004 are coupled to bus 2010. Although described as being coupled to bus 2010, memory 2006 may also be coupled to processor 2002.

[0270] Figure 1-20 The operations described herein are examples intended to aid in understanding the exemplary implementations and should not be used to limit potential implementations or the scope of the claims. Some implementations may perform additional operations, perform fewer operations, perform operations in parallel or in a different order, or perform some operations differently.

[0271] As used in this article, the phrase “at least one of” a list of items refers to any combination of those items, including a single member. As an example, “at least one of a, b, or c” is intended to cover: a, b, c, ab, ac, bc, and abc.

[0272] The various descriptive logics, logic blocks, modules, circuits, and algorithmic processes described in conjunction with the implementations disclosed herein can be implemented as electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of both. Hardware-software interchangeability has been generally described in terms of its functionality and is explained throughout the various descriptive components, blocks, modules, circuits, and processes described herein. Whether such functionality is implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and the design constraints imposed on the overall system.

[0273] Hardware and data processing apparatuses for implementing the various descriptive logics, logic blocks, modules, and circuits described in conjunction with the aspects disclosed herein may be implemented or executed using general-purpose single-chip or multi-chip processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, or any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, such as a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors cooperating with a DSP core, or any other such configuration. In some implementations, specific processes and methods may be executed by a circuit system dedicated to a given function.

[0274] In one or more aspects, the described functionality may be implemented in hardware, digital electronic circuit systems, computer software, firmware (including the structures disclosed herein and their structural equivalents), or any combination thereof. Implementation of the subject matter described herein may also be implemented as one or more computer programs, i.e., one or more modules of computer program instructions encoded on a computer storage medium for execution by a data processing apparatus or for controlling the operation of a data processing apparatus.

[0275] If implemented in software, the functions can be stored or transmitted as one or more instructions or codes on or through a computer-readable medium. The processes of the methods or algorithms disclosed herein can be implemented in a processor-executable software module that can reside on a computer-readable medium. Computer-readable media include both computer storage media and communication media, including any medium that can be implemented to transfer a computer program from one location to another. Storage media can be any available medium accessible to a computer. By way of example and not limitation, such computer-readable media can include RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disc storage, disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to store desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and is accessible to a computer. Any connection can also be properly referred to as a computer-readable medium. Disks and discs as used herein include compact discs (CDs), laser discs, optical discs, digital versatile discs (DVDs), floppy disks, and Blu-ray discs. TM Disks, where disks typically reproduce data magnetically, and discs reproduce data optically using lasers. Combinations may also be included within the scope of computer-readable media. Additionally, the operation of a method or algorithm may reside as one of code and instructions, or any combination or set of code and instructions, on machine-readable and computer-readable media that can be incorporated into a computer program product.

[0276] Various modifications to the implementations described in this disclosure may be apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other implementations without departing from the spirit or scope of this disclosure. Therefore, the claims are not intended to be limited to the implementations shown herein, but are to be granted the broadest scope consistent with this disclosure, the principles disclosed herein, and the novel features.

[0277] In addition, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the terms “upper” and “lower” are sometimes used for the convenience of describing the figures and indicate a relative position corresponding to the orientation of the figures on the correctly oriented page, and may not reflect the true orientation of any device as implemented.

[0278] Some features described in this specification in the context of separate implementations may also be implemented in combination in a single implementation. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single implementation may also be implemented separately or in any suitable sub-combination in multiple implementations. Furthermore, although features may be described as operating in certain combinations and even originally claimed in this way, one or more features from the claimed combination may be removed from that combination in some cases, and the claimed combination may be for sub-combinations or variations thereof.

[0279] Similarly, although the operations are depicted in a specific order in the accompanying drawings, this should not be construed as requiring such operations to be performed in the specific order shown or sequentially, or requiring the performance of all explained operations to achieve the desired result. Furthermore, the drawings may schematically depict one or more example processes in the form of flowcharts. However, other operations not depicted may be incorporated into the schematically explained example processes. For example, one or more additional operations may be performed before, after, simultaneously with, or between any explained operation. In some environments, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Moreover, the separation of various system components in the described implementation should not be construed as requiring such separation in all implementations, and it should be understood that the described program components and systems can generally be integrated together in a single software product or packaged into multiple software products. Additionally, other implementations also fall within the scope of the appended claims. In some cases, the actions recited in the claims may be performed in a different order and still achieve the desired result.

[0280] In some aspects, a first method for wireless communication in a WLAN, performed by means of a first WLAN device, may include determining a first distance from the first WLAN device to the second WLAN device based at least in part on FTM frames exchanged with the second WLAN device. In some aspects, the first method may include determining whether the first WLAN device is within range of the second WLAN device based at least in part on the first distance. In some aspects, the first method may include determining a signal strength associated with the second WLAN device in response to the second WLAN device being within that distance range. In some aspects, the first method may include comparing the signal strength to one or more signal strength thresholds. In some aspects, the first method may include providing a fine-grained placement indicator based on the comparison.

[0281] The first method may include additional aspects, such as any single aspect or any combination of aspects described below or in conjunction with one or more other methods described elsewhere in this document.

[0282] In a first aspect, comparing the signal strength with one or more signal strength thresholds may include determining that the signal strength is less than a first signal strength threshold among the one or more signal strength thresholds, the first signal strength threshold indicating the minimum signal strength within the distance range.

[0283] In a second aspect, either alone or in combination with the first aspect, providing a fine placement indicator may include providing a fine placement indicator in response to determining that the signal strength is less than the first signal strength threshold, indicating that the first WLAN device should be moved closer to the second WLAN device.

[0284] In a third aspect, comparing the signal strength with one or more signal strength thresholds, either alone or in combination with one or more of the first and second aspects, may include determining that the signal strength is greater than a second signal strength threshold among the one or more signal strength thresholds, the second signal strength threshold indicating the maximum signal strength over the distance range.

[0285] In a fourth aspect, providing a fine placement indicator may, alone or in combination with one or more of the first to third aspects, include providing a fine placement indicator in response to determining that the signal strength is greater than the second signal strength threshold, indicating that the first WLAN device should be moved further away from the second WLAN device.

[0286] In a fifth aspect, comparing the signal strength with one or more signal strength thresholds, either alone or in combination with one or more of the first to fourth aspects, may include determining that the signal strength is greater than or equal to a first signal strength threshold among the one or more signal strength thresholds, the first signal strength threshold indicating the minimum signal strength within the distance range. In the fifth aspect, comparing the signal strength with one or more signal strength thresholds may include determining that the signal strength is less than or equal to a second signal strength threshold among the one or more signal strength thresholds, the second signal strength threshold indicating the maximum signal strength within the distance range.

[0287] In a sixth aspect, providing a fine placement indicator may, alone or in combination with one or more of the first to fifth aspects, include providing a fine placement indicator that instructs the first WLAN device to remain in its current position in response to determining that the signal strength is greater than or equal to the first signal strength threshold and the signal strength is less than or equal to the second signal strength threshold.

[0288] In a seventh aspect, either alone or in combination with one or more of the first to sixth aspects, the first method may include determining one or more additional signal strengths associated with the second WLAN device in response to providing a fine placement indicator instructing the first WLAN device to remain in its current location. In this seventh aspect, the first method may further include updating distance information based on the one or more additional signal strengths.

[0289] In an eighth aspect, alone or in combination with one or more of the first to seventh aspects, the first method may include: determining whether a first distance is greater than the distance range in response to the second WLAN device not being within the distance range of the first WLAN device. In this eighth aspect, the first method may include providing a coarse placement indicator for moving the first WLAN device closer to the second WLAN device in response to determining that the first distance is greater than the distance range.

[0290] In a ninth aspect, alone or in combination with one or more of the first to eighth aspects, the first method may include: determining whether a first distance is less than a distance range in response to the first WLAN device being outside the distance range of the second WLAN device. In this ninth aspect, the first method may include providing a rough placement indicator for moving the first WLAN device further away from the second WLAN device in response to determining that the first distance is less than the distance range.

[0291] In a tenth aspect, alone or in combination with one or more of the first to ninth aspects, the first method may include: in response to the first WLAN device being within a distance range of the second WLAN device, in response to determining that the first distance is within the distance range, providing a coarse placement indicator instructing the first WLAN device to remain in its current position.

[0292] In the eleventh aspect, determining a first distance from the first WLAN device to the second WLAN device, either alone or in combination with one or more of the first to tenth aspects, at least in part based on FTM frames exchanged with the second WLAN device, may include: outputting a first FTM frame for transmission to the second WLAN device; obtaining a second FTM frame from the second WLAN device; determining an RTT based on the first FTM frame and the second FTM frame; and determining the first distance based on the RTT.

[0293] In the twelfth aspect, determining the signal strength associated with the second WLAN device, either alone or in combination with one or more of the first to eleventh aspects, may include determining the RSSI based on signals received from the second WLAN device.

[0294] In the thirteenth aspect, alone or in combination with one or more of the first to twelfth aspects, the distance range may include the range of distance between the first WLAN device and the second WLAN device.

[0295] In some aspects, a second method for wireless communication in a WLAN, performed by means of a first WLAN device, may include determining a first distance from the first WLAN device to the second WLAN device based at least in part on FTM frames exchanged with the second WLAN device. The second method may include determining, at least in part, whether the first WLAN device is within range of the second WLAN device based on the first distance. The second method may include determining a CSI associated with the second WLAN device in response to the second WLAN device being within that distance range. The second method may include comparing the CSI to one or more CSI thresholds. The second method may include providing a fine placement indicator based on the comparison.

[0296] The second method may include additional aspects, such as any single aspect or any combination of aspects described below or in conjunction with one or more other methods described elsewhere in this document.

[0297] In a first aspect, comparing the CSI with one or more CSI thresholds may include determining that the CSI is less than a first CSI threshold of the one or more CSI thresholds, the first CSI threshold indicating one or more of scattering, fading, and power attenuation over the distance range.

[0298] In a second aspect, either alone or in combination with the first aspect, providing a fine placement indicator may include providing a fine placement indicator in response to determining that the CSI is less than the first CSI threshold, indicating that the first WLAN device should be moved closer to the second WLAN device.

[0299] In a third aspect, comparing the CSI with one or more CSI thresholds, either alone or in combination with one or more of the first and second aspects, may include determining that the CSI is greater than a second CSI threshold among the one or more CSI thresholds, the second CSI threshold indicating one or more of scattering, fading, and power attenuation over the distance for the range of distances.

[0300] In a fourth aspect, providing a fine placement indicator may, alone or in combination with one or more of the first to third aspects, include providing a fine placement indicator in response to determining that the CSI is greater than the second CSI threshold, indicating that the first WLAN device should be moved further away from the second WLAN device.

[0301] In a fifth aspect, comparing the CSI with one or more CSI thresholds, either alone or in combination with one or more of the first to fourth aspects, may include determining that the CSI is greater than or equal to a first CSI threshold among the one or more CSI thresholds, the first CSI threshold indicating the minimum CSI within the distance range. In the fifth aspect, comparing the CSI with one or more CSI thresholds may include determining that the CSI is less than or equal to a second CSI threshold among the one or more CSI thresholds, the second CSI threshold indicating the maximum CSI within the distance range.

[0302] In a sixth aspect, providing a fine placement indicator may, alone or in combination with one or more of the first to fifth aspects, include providing a fine placement indicator that indicates the first WLAN device should remain in its current position in response to determining that the CSI is greater than or equal to the first CSI threshold and the CSI is less than or equal to the second CSI threshold.

[0303] In some aspects, an apparatus for wireless communication of a first WLAN device may include one or more interfaces for communicating via the WLAN. The apparatus may include one or more processors configured to determine a first distance from the first WLAN device to the second WLAN device, at least in part, based on FTM frames exchanged with the second WLAN device via the one or more interfaces. The one or more processors may be configured to determine, at least in part, whether the first WLAN device is within range of the second WLAN device, based on the first distance. The one or more processors may be configured to determine a signal strength associated with the second WLAN device in response to the second WLAN device being within that distance range. The one or more processors may be configured to compare the signal strength with one or more signal strength thresholds. The one or more processors may be configured to output a fine placement indicator based on the comparison.

[0304] The apparatus of the first WLAN device may include additional aspects, such as any single aspect or any combination of aspects described below or in conjunction with one or more other apparatuses described elsewhere herein.

[0305] In a first aspect, one or more processors configured to compare the signal strength with one or more signal strength thresholds may include one or more processors configured to determine that the signal strength is less than a first signal strength threshold of the one or more signal strength thresholds, the first signal strength threshold indicating the minimum signal strength of the distance range.

[0306] In a second aspect, either alone or in combination with the first aspect, one or more processors configured to provide a fine placement indicator may include one or more processors configured to provide a fine placement indicator indicating that the first WLAN device should be moved closer to the second WLAN device in response to determining that the signal strength is less than the first signal strength threshold.

[0307] In a third aspect, either alone or in combination with one or more of the first and second aspects, one or more processors configured to compare the signal strength with one or more signal strength thresholds may include one or more processors configured to determine that the signal strength is greater than a second signal strength threshold of the one or more signal strength thresholds, the second signal strength threshold indicating the maximum signal strength of the distance range.

[0308] In a fourth aspect, one or more processors configured to provide a fine placement indicator, either alone or in combination with one or more of the first to third aspects, may include one or more processors configured to provide a fine placement indicator indicating that the first WLAN device should be moved further away from the second WLAN device in response to a determination that the signal strength is greater than the second signal strength threshold.

[0309] In a fifth aspect, individually or in combination with one or more of the first to fourth aspects, one or more processors configured to compare the signal strength with one or more signal strength thresholds may include one or more processors configured to determine that the signal strength is greater than or equal to a first signal strength threshold among the one or more signal strength thresholds, the first signal strength threshold indicating the minimum signal strength within the distance range. In this fifth aspect, one or more processors configured to compare the signal strength with one or more signal strength thresholds may include one or more processors configured to determine that the signal strength is less than or equal to a second signal strength threshold among the one or more signal strength thresholds, the second signal strength threshold indicating the maximum signal strength within the distance range.

[0310] In a sixth aspect, either alone or in combination with one or more of the first to fifth aspects, one or more processors configured to provide a fine placement indicator may include one or more processors configured to provide a fine placement indicator indicating that the first WLAN device should remain in its current position in response to a determination that the signal strength is greater than or equal to the first signal strength threshold and the signal strength is less than or equal to the second signal strength threshold.

[0311] In some aspects, the wireless communication means of the first WLAN device may include one or more interfaces for communicating via the WLAN. The first WLAN device may include one or more processors configured to determine a first distance from the first WLAN device to the second WLAN device based at least in part on FTM frames exchanged with the second WLAN device via the one or more interfaces. The one or more processors may be configured to determine whether the first WLAN device is within range of the second WLAN device based at least in part on the first distance. The one or more processors may be configured to determine a CSI associated with the second WLAN device in response to the second WLAN device being within that range. The one or more processors may be configured to compare the CSI with one or more CSI thresholds. The one or more processors may be configured to output a fine placement indicator based on the comparison.

[0312] The wireless communication device may include additional aspects, such as any single aspect or any combination of aspects described below or in conjunction with one or more other devices described elsewhere herein.

[0313] In a first aspect, the CSI may include CSIR and CSIT, and the one or more processors may be further configured to determine the difference between CSIT and CSIR, wherein the comparison of the CSI with one or more CSI thresholds may include comparing the difference between CSIT and CSIR with the one or more CSI thresholds.

Claims

1. A method performed by an apparatus of a first wireless local area network (WLAN) device for wireless communication in a WLAN, comprising: determining a first distance from the first WLAN device to a second WLAN device based at least in part on fine timing measurement (FTM) frames exchanged with the second WLAN device; determining whether the first WLAN device is within a distance range of the second WLAN device based at least in part on the first distance; determining channel state information (CSI) associated with the second WLAN device in response to the first WLAN device being within the distance range, the CSI comprising receiver channel state information (CSIR) and transmitter channel state information (CSIT); comparing a difference between the CSIT and the CSIR to one or more CSI thresholds; and providing a fine placement indicator based on the comparison. comparing a difference between the CSIT and the CSIR to one or more CSI thresholds comprises:

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, determining that the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR is less than a first CSI threshold of the one or more CSI thresholds, the first CSI threshold indicating one or more of scattering, fading, and power decay over a distance of the distance range. providing the fine placement indicator comprises:

3. The method of claim 2, wherein, providing a fine placement indicator indicating to move the first WLAN device closer to the second WLAN device in response to determining that the CSI is less than the first CSI threshold. comparing a difference between the CSIT and the CSIR to one or more CSI thresholds comprises:

4. The method of claim 1, wherein, determining that the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR is greater than a second CSI threshold of the one or more CSI thresholds, the second CSI threshold indicating one or more of scattering, fading, and power decay over a distance of the distance range. providing the fine placement indicator comprises:

5. The method of claim 4, wherein, providing a fine placement indicator indicating to move the first WLAN device farther away from the second WLAN device in response to determining that the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR is greater than the second CSI threshold. comparing a difference between the CSIT and the CSIR to one or more CSI thresholds comprises:

6. The method of claim 1, wherein, determining that the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR is greater than or equal to a first CSI threshold of the one or more CSI thresholds, the first CSI threshold indicating a minimum CSI of the distance range, and determining that the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR is less than or equal to a second CSI threshold of the one or more CSI thresholds, the second CSI threshold indicating a maximum CSI of the distance range. providing the fine placement indicator comprises:

7. The method of claim 6, wherein, providing a fine placement indicator indicating to keep the first WLAN device in a current location in response to determining that the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR is greater than or equal to the first CSI threshold and the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR is less than or equal to the second CSI threshold. ​ 8. A wireless communications apparatus of a first wireless local area network (WLAN) device, comprising: one or more interfaces for communicating via a wireless local area network (WLAN); and one or more processors configured to: determine a first distance from the first WLAN device to a second WLAN device based at least in part on fine timing measurement (FTM) frames exchanged with the second WLAN device via the one or more interfaces; determine whether the first WLAN device is within a distance range of the second WLAN device based at least in part on the first distance; determine channel state information (CSI) associated with the second WLAN device in response to the first WLAN device being within the distance range, the CSI comprising receiver channel state information (CSIR) and transmitter channel state information (CSIT); compare a difference between the CSIT and the CSIR to one or more CSI thresholds; and output a fine placement indicator based on the comparison.

9. The wireless communications apparatus of claim 8, wherein the one or more processors configured to compare the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR to one or more CSI thresholds are further configured to: determine that the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR is less than a first CSI threshold of the one or more CSI thresholds, the first CSI threshold indicating one or more of scattering, fading, and power decay over distances of the distance range.

10. The wireless communications apparatus of claim 9, wherein the one or more processors configured to provide the fine placement indicator are further configured to: provide a fine placement indicator indicating to move the first WLAN device closer to the second WLAN device in response to determining that the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR is less than the first CSI threshold.

11. The wireless communications apparatus of claim 8, wherein the one or more processors configured to compare the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR to one or more CSI thresholds are further configured to: determine that the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR is greater than a second CSI threshold of the one or more CSI thresholds, the second CSI threshold indicating one or more of scattering, fading, and power decay over distances of the distance range.

12. The wireless communications apparatus of claim 11, wherein the one or more processors configured to provide the fine placement indicator are further configured to: provide a fine placement indicator indicating to move the first WLAN device farther from the second WLAN device in response to determining that the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR is greater than the second CSI threshold.

13. The wireless communications apparatus of claim 8, wherein the one or more processors configured to compare the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR to one or more CSI thresholds are further configured to: ​ determining that a difference between the CSIT and the CSIR is greater than or equal to a first CSI threshold of the one or more CSI thresholds, the first CSI threshold indicating a minimum CSI for the distance range, and determining that a difference between the CSIT and the CSIR is less than or equal to a second CSI threshold of the one or more CSI thresholds, the second CSI threshold indicating a maximum CSI for the distance range.

14. The wireless communication apparatus of claim 13, wherein the one or more processors configured to provide the fine placement indicator are further configured to: provide a fine placement indicator indicating that the first WLAN device is to remain at a current location in response to determining that a difference between the CSIT and the CSIR is greater than or equal to the first CSI threshold and that a difference between the CSIT and the CSIR is less than or equal to the second CSI threshold.

15. A non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising processor-executable program code that, when executed by one or more processors, is configured to: determine a first distance from a first WLAN device to a second WLAN device based at least in part on fine timing measurement (FTM) frames exchanged with the second WLAN device; determine whether the first WLAN device is within a distance range of the second WLAN device based at least in part on the first distance; in response to the first WLAN device being within the distance range, determine channel state information (CSI) associated with the second WLAN device, the CSI comprising receiver channel state information (CSIR) and transmitter channel state information (CSIT); compare a difference between the CSIT and the CSIR to one or more CSI thresholds; and provide a fine placement indicator based on the comparison.

16. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 15, wherein the one or more processors configured to compare the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR to one or more CSI thresholds are further configured to: determine that the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR is less than a first CSI threshold of the one or more CSI thresholds, the first CSI threshold indicating one or more of scattering, fading, and power decay over a distance for the distance range.

17. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 16, wherein the one or more processors configured to provide the fine placement indicator are further configured to: provide a fine placement indicator indicating that the first WLAN device is to be moved closer to the second WLAN device in response to determining that the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR is less than the first CSI threshold.

18. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 15, wherein the one or more processors configured to compare the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR to one or more CSI thresholds are further configured to: determine that the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR is greater than a second CSI threshold of the one or more CSI thresholds, the second CSI threshold indicating one or more of scattering, fading, and power decay over a distance for the distance range. determining that the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR is greater than a second CSI threshold of the one or more CSI thresholds, the second CSI threshold indicating one or more of scattering, fading, and power decay over distances of the distance range.

19. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 18, wherein the one or more processors configured to provide the fine placement indicator are further configured to: provide a fine placement indicator indicating to move the first WLAN device farther away from the second WLAN device in response to determining that the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR is greater than the second CSI threshold.

20. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 15, wherein the one or more processors configured to compare the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR to one or more CSI thresholds are further configured to: determine that the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR is greater than or equal to a first CSI threshold of the one or more CSI thresholds, the first CSI threshold indicating a minimum CSI of the distance range, and determine that the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR is less than or equal to a second CSI threshold of the one or more CSI thresholds, the second CSI threshold indicating a maximum CSI of the distance range.

21. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 20, wherein the one or more processors configured to provide the fine placement indicator are further configured to: provide a fine placement indicator indicating to keep the first WLAN device in a current location in response to determining that the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR is greater than or equal to the first CSI threshold and the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR is less than or equal to the second CSI threshold.

22. A first wireless local area network (WLAN) device, comprising: means for determining a first distance from the first WLAN device to a second WLAN device based at least in part on fine timing measurement (FTM) frames exchanged with the second WLAN device; means for determining whether the first WLAN device is within a distance range of the second WLAN device based at least in part on the first distance; means for determining channel state information (CSI) associated with the second WLAN device in response to the first WLAN device being within the distance range, the CSI including receiver channel state information (CSIR) and transmitter channel state information (CSIT); means for comparing a difference between the CSIT and the CSIR to one or more CSI thresholds; and means for providing a fine placement indicator based on the comparison.

23. The first WLAN device of claim 22, wherein the means for comparing the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR to one or more CSI thresholds comprises: means for determining that the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR is less than a first CSI threshold of the one or more CSI thresholds, the first CSI threshold indicating one or more of scattering, fading, and power decay over distances of the distance range.

24. The first WLAN device of claim 23, wherein the means for providing the fine placement indicator comprises: means for providing a fine placement indicator indicating that the first WLAN device is to be moved closer to the second WLAN device in response to determining that the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR is less than the first CSI threshold.

25. The first WLAN device of claim 22, wherein the means for comparing the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR to one or more CSI thresholds comprises: means for determining that the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR is greater than a second CSI threshold of the one or more CSI thresholds, the second CSI threshold indicating one or more of scattering, fading, and power decay over distances of the distance range.

26. The first WLAN device of claim 25, wherein the means for providing the fine placement indicator comprises: means for providing a fine placement indicator indicating that the first WLAN device is to be moved farther away from the second WLAN device in response to determining that the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR is greater than the second CSI threshold.

27. The first WLAN device of claim 22, wherein the means for comparing the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR to one or more CSI thresholds comprises: means for determining that the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR is greater than or equal to a first CSI threshold of the one or more CSI thresholds, the first CSI threshold indicating a minimum CSI of the distance range, and means for determining that the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR is less than or equal to a second CSI threshold of the one or more CSI thresholds, the second CSI threshold indicating a maximum CSI of the distance range.

28. The first WLAN device of claim 27, wherein the means for providing the fine placement indicator comprises: means for providing a fine placement indicator indicating that the first WLAN device is to remain at a current location in response to determining that the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR is greater than or equal to the first CSI threshold and the difference between the CSIT and the CSIR is less than or equal to the second CSI threshold.

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