Controlling motion topologies in standardized wireless communication networks

Abstract

In general, the motion sensing topology of a multi-access point (multi-AP) wireless communication network can be controlled. In some aspects, the multi-AP wireless communication network includes a first AP device, a second AP device, and a multi-AP controller. The multi-AP controller identifies the wireless communication topology, including identifying that a first client station device is associated with the first AP device. The multi-AP controller defines a motion sensing topology different from the wireless communication topology, and this motion sensing topology includes a wireless motion sensing link between the first client station device and the second AP device. The multi-AP controller initiates motion sensing measurements based on the motion sensing topology, and these motion sensing measurements use the wireless motion sensing link, while the first client station device remains associated with the first AP device.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 072,905, filed August 31, 2020, entitled "Controlling Motion Topology in a Standardized Wireless Communication Network". The aforementioned priority application is incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] The following description pertains to the control of motion sensing topologies in standardized wireless communication networks.

[0004] Motion detection systems have been used to detect the movement of objects, such as in a room or outdoors. In some example motion detection systems, infrared or optical sensors are used to detect the movement of objects within the sensor's field of view. Motion detection systems have been used in security systems, automated control systems, and other types of systems. Attached Figure Description

[0005] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating an example wireless communication system.

[0006] Figures 2A to 2B This is a block diagram illustrating an example wireless signal used for communication between wireless communication devices.

[0007] Figure 3A This is a block diagram illustrating various aspects of an example wireless communication topology for a wireless communication network.

[0008] Figure 3B This is a block diagram illustrating various aspects of another example wireless communication network topology.

[0009] Figure 4A This is a flowchart illustrating various aspects of the example processing.

[0010] Figure 4B This is a flowchart illustrating various aspects of an example initialization process for a wireless communication network used for motion sensing.

[0011] Figure 4C This is a flowchart illustrating various aspects of the example association process.

[0012] Figure 4D This is a flowchart illustrating various aspects of the example topology optimization process.

[0013] Figure 4E This is a flowchart illustrating various aspects of an example motion sensing measurement process.

[0014] Figure 4F This is a flowchart illustrating various aspects of an example motion sensing measurement process.

[0015] Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating various aspects of an example wireless communication network that performs motion sensing topology control.

[0016] Figure 6 This is a block diagram illustrating various aspects of an example wireless communication network that controls a motion sensing topology.

[0017] Figure 7 This is a block diagram illustrating various aspects of an example wireless communication device.

[0018] Figure 8A This is a block diagram illustrating various aspects of an example Enhanced Service Set (ESS).

[0019] Figure 8B This is a block diagram illustrating various aspects of the example ESS.

[0020] Figure 9A It shows that it is aimed at Figure 8A The example ESS shown illustrates example association processing and targeting Figure 8B The example ESS provides a ladder diagram of various aspects of the example topology optimization process.

[0021] Figures 9B to 9C It shows that it is aimed at Figure 8B The example shown is a trapezoidal diagram of various aspects of the example motion sensing measurement process of the ESS. Detailed Implementation

[0022] In some aspects described herein, wireless sensing systems can be used for wireless sensing applications by processing wireless signals (e.g., radio frequency signals) transmitted spatially between wireless communication devices. Example wireless sensing applications include motion detection, which may include one or more of the following: detecting the movement of objects in space, motion tracking, motion localization, breathing detection, breathing monitoring, presence detection, gesture detection, gesture recognition, human detection (moving and stationary human detection), human tracking, fall detection, speed estimation, intrusion detection, walking detection, step counting, respiratory rate detection, apnea estimation, posture change detection, activity recognition, gait rate classification, gesture decoding, sign language recognition, hand tracking, heart rate estimation, respiratory rate estimation, room occupancy detection, human dynamics monitoring, and other types of motion detection applications. Other examples of wireless sensing applications include object recognition, speech recognition, keystroke detection and recognition, tamper detection, touch detection, attack detection, user authentication, driver fatigue detection, traffic monitoring, smoke detection, school violence detection, human counting, metal detection, human recognition, bicycle localization, human queue estimation, WiFi imaging, and other types of wireless sensing applications. For example, a wireless sensing system can operate as a motion detection system to detect the presence and location of motion based on Wi-Fi signals or other types of wireless signals.

[0023] The examples above can be useful for home monitoring. Home monitoring using the wireless sensing systems described herein offers several advantages, including full-home coverage through walls and darkness, discreet detection without cameras, higher accuracy (e.g., compared to sensors in environments that do not use Wi-Fi signal sensing sensors), reduced false alarms, and adjustable sensitivity. Robust motion detection systems can be provided by layering Wi-Fi motion detection capabilities within routers and gateways.

[0024] The examples above can also be useful in health monitoring. Caregivers want to know that their loved ones are safe, while older adults and people with special needs want to maintain their independence at home with dignity. Health monitoring using the wireless sensing system described herein offers a solution that uses wireless signals to detect movement without using cameras or infringing on privacy, generates alerts when abnormal activity is detected, tracks sleep patterns, and generates preventative health data. For example, caregivers can monitor movement, visits from healthcare professionals, and unusual behaviors such as spending more time in bed than usual. Furthermore, it allows for discreet movement monitoring without the need for wearable devices, and the wireless sensing system described herein provides a more economical and convenient alternative to assisted living facilities and other safety and health monitoring tools.

[0025] The examples above can also be useful in setting up a smart home. In some examples, the wireless sensing systems described herein use predictive analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) to learn movement patterns accordingly and trigger smart home functions. Examples of smart home functions that can be triggered include adjusting the thermostat when someone passes through the front door, turning other smart devices on or off based on preferences, automatically adjusting lighting, adjusting the HVAC system based on the current occupants, and so on.

[0026] In some aspects described herein, wireless motion sensing topologies are controlled within standardized wireless communication networks. In some implementations, controlling a wireless motion sensing topology includes wireless motion sensing links between client station (STA) devices and access point (AP) devices that are not associated with each other. In some instances, wireless signals transmitted over the wireless motion sensing link during a scheduled illumination session can be received by either the STA or AP device and can be analyzed to determine channel information for the wireless motion sensing link within the wireless motion sensing topology. Channel information can represent the physical medium over which a transfer function is applied to the wireless signal traversing space. In some instances, channel information includes channel response. Channel response can characterize the physical communication path, representing a combination of effects such as scattering, fading, and power attenuation within the space between the transmitter and receiver. In some instances, channel information includes beamforming state information (e.g., feedback matrix, steering matrix, channel state information (CSI), etc.) provided by a beamforming system. Beamforming is a signal processing technique frequently used in multi-antenna (multiple-input / multiple-output (MIMO)) radio systems for directional signal transmission or reception. Beamforming can be achieved by manipulating elements in an antenna array such that signals at a specific angle undergo constructive interference while other signals undergo destructive interference. Channel information of a wireless motion sensing link can be analyzed (e.g., by an access point or other device in a wireless communication network, or by a remote device receiving information from the network) to detect, for example, whether motion has occurred in space, to determine the relative location of the detected motion, or both. In some aspects, channel information of individual communication links can be analyzed to detect, for example, whether an object exists or does not exist if no motion is detected in space.

[0027] Example motion detection and localization algorithms that can be used to detect motion based on wireless signals include the techniques described in the following patents, as well as others: U.S. Patent 9,523,760 entitled "Detecting Motion Based on Repeated Wireless Transmissions"; U.S. Patent 9,584,974 entitled "Detecting Motion Based on Reference Signal Transmissions"; U.S. Patent 10,051,414 entitled "Detecting Motion Based on Decompositions Of Channel Response Variations"; U.S. Patent 10,048,350 entitled "Motion Detection Based on Groupings of Statistical Parameters of Wireless Signals"; U.S. Patent 10,108,903 entitled "Motion Detection Based on Machine Learning of Wireless Signal Properties"; U.S. Patent 10,109,167 entitled "Motion Localization in a Wireless Mesh Network Based on Motion Indicator Values"; and U.S. Patent 10,109,167 entitled "Motion Localization Based on Channel...". U.S. Patent 10,109,168, entitled "Response Characteristics"; U.S. Patent 10,743,143, entitled "Determining a Motion Zone for a Location of Motion Detected by Wireless Signals"; U.S. Patent 10,605,908, entitled "Motion Detection Based on Beamforming Dynamic Information from Wireless Standard Client Devices"; and U.S. Patent 10,605,907, entitled "Motion Detection by a Central Controller Using Beamforming Dynamic Information".U.S. Patent 10,600,314, entitled "Modifying Sensitivity Settings in a Motion Detection System"; U.S. Patent 10,567,914, entitled "Initializing Probability Vectors for Determining a Location of Motion Detected from Wireless Signals"; U.S. Patent 10,565,860, entitled "Offline Tuning System for Detecting New Motion Zones in a Motion Detection System"; U.S. Patent 10,506,384, entitled "Determining a Location of Motion Detected from Wireless Signals Based on Prior Probability"; U.S. Patent 10,499,364, entitled "Identifying Static Leaf Nodes in a Motion Detection System"; U.S. Patent 10,498,467, entitled "Classifying Static Leaf Nodes in a Motion Detection System"; and U.S. Patent 10,498,467, entitled "Determining a Confidence for a Motion Zone Identified as a Location". U.S. Patent 10,460,581, entitled "Motion for Motion Detected by Wireless Signals"; U.S. Patent 10,459,076, entitled "Motion Detection based on Beamforming Dynamic Information"; U.S. Patent 10,459,074, entitled "Determining a Location of Motion Detected from Wireless Signals Based on Wireless Link Counting"; and U.S. Patent 10,438,468, entitled "Motion Localization in a Wireless Mesh Network Based on Motion Indicator Values".U.S. Patent 10,404,387, entitled "Determining Motion Zones in a Space Traversed by Wireless Signals"; U.S. Patent 10,393,866, entitled "Detecting Presence Based on Wireless Signal Analysis"; U.S. Patent 10,380,856, entitled "Motion Localization Based on Channel Response Characteristics"; U.S. Patent 10,318,890, entitled "Training Data for a Motion Detection System using Data from a Sensor Device"; U.S. Patent 10,264,405, entitled "Motion Detection in Mesh Networks"; U.S. Patent 10,228,439, entitled "Motion Detection Based on Filtered Statistical Parameters of Wireless Signals"; U.S. Patent 10,129,853, entitled "Operating a Motion Detection Channel in a Wireless Communication Network"; and U.S. Patent 10,129,853, entitled "Selecting Wireless Communication Channels Based on Signal Quality". US Patent 10,111,228, concerning “Metrics”.

[0028] The following example wireless sensing system is described in the context of motion detection. However, one or more of the operational and technical improvements and advantages achieved when the wireless sensing system is operating as a motion detection system may also be applicable in examples where the wireless sensing system is used in another wireless sensing application.

[0029] In some instances, aspects of the systems and techniques described herein offer technical improvements and advantages over existing methods. For example, a wireless motion sensing topology, different from the wireless communication topology, can be used to improve the sensitivity, accuracy, or efficiency of a wireless motion sensing system for various aspects of motion (e.g., the localization of motion in space). In some cases, the systems and techniques described herein can be used to define and control motion sensing topologies based on existing wireless communication topologies to achieve optimized motion sensing performance. For example, the motion sensing topology can be optimized based on sensing-based metrics and defined based on user-defined application inputs. The technical improvements and advantages realized in the example of wireless sensing systems used for motion detection can also be realized in examples of wireless sensing systems used in other wireless sensing applications.

[0030] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating an example wireless communication system 100. The example wireless communication system 100 includes three wireless communication devices 102A, 102B, and 102C. The example wireless communication system 100 may include additional wireless communication devices 102 and / or other components (e.g., one or more network servers, network routers, network switches, cables, or other communication links, etc.).

[0031] Example wireless communication devices 102A, 102B, and 102C can operate in a wireless communication network, for example, according to a wireless communication network standard or another type of wireless communication protocol. For example, the wireless communication network can be configured to operate as a wireless local area network (WLAN), a personal area network (PAN), a metropolitan area network (MAN), or other types of wireless communication networks. Examples of WLANs include networks configured to operate according to one or more of the IEEE 802.11 family of standards (e.g., Wi-Fi networks). Examples of PANs include those based on short-range communication standards (e.g., Bluetooth). Networks that operate using Near Field Communication (NFC), ZigBee, and millimeter-wave communication.

[0032] In some implementations, wireless communication devices 102A, 102B, and 102C can be configured to communicate in a cellular network, for example, according to cellular network standards. Examples of cellular networks include networks configured according to standards such as: 2G standards such as Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) and Enhanced Data Rate Evolution (EDGE) or EGPRS; 3G standards such as Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), and Time Division Synchronous Code Division Multiple Access (TD-SCDMA); 4G standards such as Long Term Evolution (LTE) and LTE-A Advanced (LTE-A); and 5G standards; and so on.

[0033] In some cases, one or more of the wireless communication devices 102 are Wi-Fi access points or other types of wireless access points (WAPs). In some cases, one or more of the wireless communication devices 102 are access points of a multi-AP wireless communication network (e.g., a commercially available mesh network system). In some instances, one or more of the wireless communication devices 102 may be implemented as a wireless access point (AP) in a mesh network, while (one or more) other wireless communication devices 102 are implemented as client station devices (e.g., mobile devices, smart devices, etc.) that access the mesh network through one of the AP devices. In some cases, one or more of the wireless communication devices 102 are mobile devices (e.g., smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, laptops, etc.), wireless-enabled devices (e.g., smart thermostats, Wi-Fi-enabled cameras, smart TVs), or other types of devices that communicate in a wireless communication network.

[0034] exist Figure 1 In the example shown, wireless communication devices transmit wireless signals to each other via a wireless communication link (e.g., according to a standard or non-standard wireless communication protocol of a wireless communication network), and the wireless signals communicated between these devices can be used as motion detectors to detect motion of objects in the signal path between these devices. In some implementations, standard signals (e.g., channel sounding signals, beacon signals), non-standard reference signals, or other types of wireless signals can be used as motion detectors.

[0035] exist Figure 1 In the example shown, the wireless communication link between wireless communication devices 102A and 102C can be used to detect a first motion detection area 110A, the wireless communication link between wireless communication devices 102B and 102C can be used to detect a second motion detection area 110B, and the wireless communication link between wireless communication devices 102A and 102B can be used to detect a third motion detection area 110C. In some instances, the motion detection area 110 may include, for example, air, solid materials, liquids, or other media through which radio electromagnetic signals can propagate.

[0036] exist Figure 1 In the example shown, when an object moves within any motion detection area 110, the motion detection system can detect motion based on signals transmitted through that associated motion detection area 110. Typically, the object can be any type of static or movable object, and can be living or inanimate. For example, the object can be a human (e.g., Figure 1The objects shown are people (106), animals, inorganic objects, or other devices, equipment or assemblies, objects that define all or part of the boundaries of a space (e.g., walls, doors, windows, etc.), or other types of objects.

[0037] In some examples, the wireless signal can propagate through a structure (e.g., a wall) before or after interaction with the moving object, enabling the detection of movement of the moving object even when there is no line of sight between the moving object and the transmitting or receiving hardware. In some instances, the motion detection system can communicate motion detection events to other devices or systems such as security systems or control centers.

[0038] In some cases, the wireless communication device 102 itself is configured to perform one or more operations of the motion detection system, for example, by executing computer-readable instructions (e.g., software or firmware) on the wireless communication device. For example, each device can process received wireless signals to detect motion based on changes in the communication channel. In some cases, other devices (e.g., remote servers, cloud-based computer systems, network-attached devices, etc.) are configured to perform one or more operations of the motion detection system. For example, each wireless communication device 102 can send channel information to a designated device, system, or service performing the motion detection system operation.

[0039] In an example of operation, wireless communication devices 102A and 102B may broadcast wireless signals to or address wireless signals to other wireless communication devices 102C, and wireless communication device 102C (and possibly other devices) may receive wireless signals transmitted by wireless communication devices 102A and 102B. Wireless communication device 102C (or other system or device) then processes the received wireless signals to detect motion of objects in the space accessed by the wireless signals (e.g., in zones 110A and 110B). In some instances, wireless communication device 102C (or other system or device) may perform one or more operations of a motion detection system.

[0040] Figure 2A and Figure 2B This is a block diagram illustrating an example wireless signal communication between wireless communication devices 204A, 204B, and 204C within space 200. The wireless communication devices 204A, 204B, and 204C may be, for example, Figure 1 The wireless communication devices 102A, 102B, and 102C shown may be other types of wireless communication devices.

[0041] In some cases, one or more of the wireless communication devices 204A, 204B, and 204C may be part of, or be used by, a wireless communication system operating as a motion detection system in space 200. Example space 200 may be completely or partially enclosed or open at one or more boundaries. Space 200 may be or may include the interior of a room, multiple rooms, a building, an indoor area, or an outdoor area, etc. In the illustrated example, the first wall 202A, the second wall 202B, and the third wall 202C at least partially surround space 200.

[0042] Example wireless communication devices 204A, 204B, and 204C can form a wireless communication network with a wireless communication topology and transmit wireless signals for wireless communication purposes through space 200. The wireless communication topology may include a first set of links or channels between the wireless communication devices 204A, 204B, and 204C. The wireless communication network formed by the example wireless communication devices 204A, 204B, and 204C may also have a motion sensing topology for motion sensing purposes through space 200. The motion sensing topology may include a second set of links or channels between the wireless communication devices 204A, 204B, and 204C. In some implementations, the first set of links or channels of the wireless communication topology and the second set of links or channels of the motion sensing topology may be the same, share a subset of links or channels, or may be different. Figures 3A to 3B , Figures 4A to 4F , Figures 5 to 7 and Figures 8A to 8B The diagram illustrates example systems and techniques for controlling wireless communication topologies and motion sensing topologies.

[0043] exist Figure 2A and Figure 2B In the example shown, the first wireless communication device 204A repeatedly transmits wireless motion detection signals (e.g., periodically, intermittently, at scheduled, unscheduled, or random intervals). The second wireless communication device 204B and the third wireless communication device 204C receive signals based on the motion detection signals transmitted by the wireless communication device 204A.

[0044] As shown in the figure, Figure 2A At the initial time (t0), the object is at position 214A, and... Figure 2B At a subsequent time (t1), the object has moved to the second position 214B. Figure 2A and Figure 2BIn this context, a moving object in space 200 is represented as a human, but the moving object can be other types of objects. For example, a moving object can be an animal, an inorganic object (e.g., a system, device, equipment, or assembly), an object that defines all or part of the boundary of space 200 (e.g., a wall, door, window, etc.), or other types of objects. Figure 2A and Figure 2B In the example shown, wireless communication devices 204A, 204B, and 204C are stationary and therefore at the same position at the initial time t0 and the subsequent time t1. However, in other examples, one or more of wireless communication devices 204A, 204B, and 204C may be mobile and may move between the initial time t0 and the subsequent time t1.

[0045] like Figure 2A and Figure 2B As shown, multiple example paths of the wireless signal transmitted from the first wireless communication device 204A are illustrated by dashed lines. Along the first signal path 216, the wireless signal is transmitted from the first wireless communication device 204A and reflected from the first wall 202A toward the second wireless communication device 204B. Along the second signal path 218, the wireless signal is transmitted from the first wireless communication device 204A and reflected from both the second wall 202B and the first wall 202A toward the third wireless communication device 204C. Along the third signal path 220, the wireless signal is transmitted from the first wireless communication device 204A and reflected from the second wall 202B toward the third wireless communication device 204C. Along the fourth signal path 222, the wireless signal is transmitted from the first wireless communication device 204A and reflected from the third wall 202C toward the second wireless communication device 204B.

[0046] exist Figure 2A In the process, along the fifth signal path 224A, the wireless signal is transmitted from the first wireless communication device 204A and reflected from the object at the first position 214A toward the third wireless communication device 204C. Figure 2A Time t0 and Figure 2B Between time t1 and t2, the object moves in space 200 from a first position 214A to a second position 214B (e.g., a distance from the first position 214A). Figure 2B In the middle, along the sixth signal path 224B, the wireless signal is transmitted from the first wireless communication device 204A and reflected from the object at the second position 214B toward the third wireless communication device 204C. Because the object moves from the first position 214A to the second position 214B, therefore... Figure 2B The sixth signal path 224B shown is compared to Figure 2A The fifth signal path shown is 224A long. In some examples, signal paths can be added, removed, or otherwise modified due to the movement of objects in space.

[0047] Figure 2A and Figure 2B The example wireless signals shown may experience attenuation, frequency shift, phase shift, or other effects along their respective paths, and may have portions propagating in other directions, for example, through walls 202A, 202B, and 202C. In some examples, the wireless signals are radio frequency (RF) signals. Wireless signals may include other types of signals.

[0048] The transmitted signal may have multiple frequency components within a frequency bandwidth, and may include one or more frequency bands within the frequency bandwidth. The transmitted signal may be transmitted omnidirectionally, directionally, or otherwise from the first wireless communication device 204A. In the illustrated example, the wireless signal traverses multiple corresponding paths in space 200, and the signal along each path may be attenuated due to path loss, scattering, or reflection, and may have phase or frequency shifts.

[0049] like Figure 2A and Figure 2B As shown, signals from various paths 216, 218, 220, 222, 224A, and 224B are combined at the third wireless communication device 204C and the second wireless communication device 204B to form a received signal. Due to the influence of multiple paths in space 200 on the transmitted signal, space 200 can be represented as a transfer function (e.g., a filter) that takes the transmitted signal as input and outputs the received signal. When an object moves within space 200, the attenuation or phase shift applied to the wireless signal along the signal path can change, thus altering the transfer function of space 200. When transmitting the same wireless signal from the first wireless communication device 204A, if the transfer function of space 200 changes, the output of that transfer function (e.g., the received signal) can also change. Changes in the received signal can be used to detect object movement. Conversely, in some cases, if the transfer function of space does not change, the output of the transfer function (the received signal) may remain unchanged.

[0050] Mathematically, the transmitted signal f(t) from the first wireless communication device 204A can be described by equation (1):

[0051]

[0052] Where, ω n c represents the frequency of the nth frequency component of the transmitted signal. n Let represent the complex coefficient of the nth frequency component, and t represent time. When the transmitted signal f(t) is transmitted from the first wireless communication device 204A, the output signal r from path k can be described according to equation (2). k (t):

[0053]

[0054] Where, α n,k Let φ represent the attenuation factor (or channel response; e.g., due to scattering, reflection, and path loss) of the nth frequency component along path k, and φ n,k Let R represent the phase of the signal at the nth frequency component along path k. Then, the received signal R at the wireless communication device can be described as all output signals r from all paths to the wireless communication device. k The sum of (t), which is shown in equation (3):

[0055]

[0056] Substituting equation (2) into equation (3) yields equation (4):

[0057]

[0058] The received signal R at the wireless communication device can then be analyzed to detect motion, for example. For instance, using a Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) or other types of algorithms, the received signal R at the wireless communication device can be transformed to the frequency domain. The transformed signal can then be represented as a series of n complex values ​​for the received signal R, where one complex value corresponds to a frequency component (n frequencies ω). n Each frequency component in (location). For frequency ω n The frequency component at position Y can be represented in equation (5) as follows: n :

[0059]

[0060] Given frequency component ω n Complex value Y n Indicates the frequency component ω n The relative magnitude and phase shift of the received signal at that location. As the object moves through space, due to the channel response α in space... n,k The complex value Y is constantly changing. n Changes. Therefore, the changes detected in the channel response (and consequently the complex value Y) n A stable channel response can indicate the movement of an object within a communication channel. Conversely, a stable channel response can indicate the absence of movement. Therefore, in some implementations, the complex value Y of each device in a wireless communication network can be processed. n This is used to detect whether motion has occurred in the space traversed by the transmitted signal f(t).

[0061] exist Figure 2A and Figure 2BOn the other hand, beamforming can be performed between devices based on some knowledge of the communication channel (e.g., feedback properties generated by the receiver). This beamforming can be used to generate one or more guiding properties (e.g., a guiding matrix) applied by the transmitter devices to shape the transmitted beam / signal in one or more specific directions. In some instances, changes in the guiding or feedback properties used in the beamforming process indicate changes that may be caused by moving objects in a space accessed by a wireless signal. For example, motion can be detected by identifying significant changes in the communication channel over a period of time (such as those indicated by the channel response, or guiding or feedback properties, or any combination thereof).

[0062] In some implementations, for example, a steering matrix can be generated at the transmitter (beamforming transmitter) based on a feedback matrix provided by the receiver device (beamforming receiver) based on channel sensing. Since the steering and feedback matrices are related to the propagation characteristics of the channel, these matrices change as an object moves within the channel. Changes in channel characteristics are reflected accordingly in these matrices, and by analyzing the matrices, motion can be detected, and different characteristics of the detected motion can be determined. In some implementations, a spatial map can be generated based on one or more beamforming matrices. The spatial map can indicate the general orientation of objects in space relative to the wireless communication device. In some cases, a "pattern" of the beamforming matrices (e.g., the feedback or steering matrix) can be used to generate the spatial map. The spatial map can be used to detect the presence of motion in space or to detect the location of detected motion.

[0063] Figure 3A This is a block diagram illustrating various aspects of the wireless communication topology 310A of an example wireless communication network 300. The example wireless communication network 300 is a multi-AP wireless communication network including multiple access point (AP) devices and multiple client station (STA) devices. The wireless communication devices (AP devices and STA devices) in the example wireless communication network 300 are organized in the wireless communication topology 310A, which can be configured to improve or optimize the wireless communication performance in example space 301. The multi-AP wireless communication network can operate based on wireless communication standards, examples of which are Wi-Fi Direct (which may have STA-to-STA information), the IEEE 802.11md standard, and the IEEE 802.11ax standard. The IEEE 802.11md standard is defined in the document titled "IEEE P802.11-REVmd". TMThe IEEE 802.11ax standard was published in the document titled "P802.11ax / D6.0, IEEE Draft Standard for Information Technology - Telecommunications and Information Exchange Between Systems - Local and Metropolitan Area Networks - Specific Requirements - Part 11: Wireless LAN Medium Access Control (MAC) and Physical Layer (PHY) Specifications" (May 2017) (which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety).

[0064] Figure 3A The example space 301 shown is a home comprising multiple distinct spatial areas or zones. In the example shown, the wireless motion detection system uses a multi-AP home network topology (e.g., a mesh network or self-organizing network (SON)), which includes three access points (APs): a central access point 326 and two extended access points 328A and 328B. In the example multi-AP home network, each AP can support multiple frequency bands (2.4GHz, 5GHz, 6GHz) and can enable multiple frequency bands simultaneously. Each AP can use different Wi-Fi channels to serve its associated STA devices, as this allows for better spectrum efficiency.

[0065] In a multi-AP home Wi-Fi network, one of several APs can be selected and designated as the central AP. In some instances, the central AP may be or include a multi-AP controller. The multi-AP controller is configured to perform functions including network and configuration, backhaul topology control, spectrum efficiency management, Quality of Service (QoS) optimization, network topology control, and other functions. In some instances, a device providing multi-AP controller functionality can be selected from multiple APs within the multi-AP wireless communication network based on predefined criteria. In some instances, multi-AP controller functionality may be provided by a remote device or system (e.g., a cloud-based system). The selection of the central AP or multi-AP controller can be managed through manufacturer software running on each AP device. For example, the central AP may be an AP device with a wired Internet connection. Figure 3A In the example shown, other access points (APs) 328A and 328B (e.g., extension APs) are wirelessly connected to the central AP 326 via corresponding wireless backhaul connections 330A and 330B. The central AP 326 can select a different wireless channel than the extension APs to serve its associated clients. The extension APs 328A and 328B use the corresponding wireless backhaul connections 330A and 330B to connect to the central AP 326, enabling network traffic to move between APs and providing a gateway to the Internet.

[0066] Extended APs 328A and 328B extend the range of the central AP 326 by enabling STA devices to connect to potentially closer APs or different channels, thereby generating... Figure 3A The example wireless communication network 300 shown has a wireless communication topology 310A. In some examples, in the wireless communication topology 310A, individual STA devices are assigned or associated with individual APs. Each extended AP 328A, 328B can select different channels to serve its associated STA device. In some examples, the multi-AP wireless communication network performs band-bootstrapping or client-bootstrapping decisions to optimize wireless communication performance based on one or more communication-based metrics. In some implementations, the multi-AP wireless communication network includes an optimizer that can bootstrap events at any time to optimize one or more communication-based metrics. In some implementations, one or more communication-based metrics may include channel utilization, upload demand, download demand, load balancing, resource balancing, physical distance, signal strength, etc.

[0067] exist Figure 3A In the examples shown, client station devices (e.g., Wi-Fi client devices) 332A, 332B, 332C, 332D, 332E, 332F, and 332G use as follows: Figure 3AThe corresponding wireless links 334A, 334B, 334C, 334D, 334E, 334F, and 334G shown are connected to the central AP 326 or to one of the extension APs 328A and 328B. Client station devices 332A, 332B, 332C, 332D, 332E, 332F, and 332G can be referred to as STA devices and may include wireless-enabled devices (e.g., mobile devices, smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, laptops, smart thermostats, wireless-enabled cameras, smart TVs, wireless-enabled speakers, wireless-enabled power outlets, etc.).

[0068] exist Figure 3A In the example shown, devices 332A, 332B, 332C, and 332D (e.g., via corresponding wireless links 334A, 334B, 334C, and 334D) are associated with extended AP 328A. Similarly, devices 332E and 332G (e.g., via corresponding wireless links 334E and 334G) are associated with central AP 326. In the same manner, device 332F (e.g., via wireless link 334F) is associated with extended AP 328B. The channels (or frequency bands) used by wireless backhaul connections 330A and 330B may differ from the channel (or frequency band) of wireless link 334 used to serve the associated STA device.

[0069] exist Figure 3A In the example shown, each wireless link 334A, 334B, 334C, 334D, 334E, 334F, and 334G utilizes a frequency channel selected by the respective AP associated with the corresponding device 332A, 332B, 332C, 332D, 332E, 332F, and 332G. Each AP can independently select its own channel to serve the corresponding device, and wireless link 334 in the wireless communication topology 310A can be used for data communication.

[0070] In some implementations, one or more access points (APs) in the wireless communication network 300 have a wired Internet connection 336. Figure 3A In the example shown, the central AP 326 is connected to a wired Internet connection 336, which extends Internet connectivity to the home network. Thus, Internet bonding services from devices connected to APs without wired Internet connections (e.g., extension APs 328A, 328B) are carried over to devices with wired Internet connections on corresponding wireless backhaul connections (e.g., wireless backhaul connections 330A or 330B).

[0071] In some implementations, Figure 3AIn the multi-AP wireless communication network 300 shown (which may be referred to as an Enhanced Service Set (ESS)), a STA device can be associated with one AP device at a time. However, using a "Fast Basic Service Set (BSS) switching" exchange, this association can be changed from one AP device to another within the same ESS. This can occur when the multi-AP wireless communication network 300 decides to move a STA device from one AP device to another for load balancing or other communication optimization purposes (e.g., channel utilization, upload demand, download demand, load balancing, resource balancing, physical distance, or signal strength). Figure 4C Example processing 414 illustrates example topology optimization processing.

[0072] In some implementations, Figure 3A The wireless communication topology 310A shown may not be suitable or optimal for motion sensing. For example, in Figure 3A In the example, the association between the device and the AP is determined based on one or more communication metrics (which may not necessarily be compatible with optimized motion detection).

[0073] In some cases, the device associations between STA devices and AP devices in a multi-AP wireless communication network 300 can be controlled and modified based on one or more wireless sensing-based metrics. For example, the associations between STA devices and AP devices can be modified, and a new wireless link capable of motion sensing measurements and the resulting new association can be created between a device and another AP. In this case, the wireless communication topology is changed or updated for motion sensing. Therefore, the new wireless link in the updated wireless communication topology is used for both wireless network services and motion sensing. In this case, the new wireless link serves as both a wireless communication link in the wireless communication topology of the wireless communication network 300 and a wireless motion sensing link in the motion sensing topology of the wireless communication network 300.

[0074] Figure 3B This is a block diagram illustrating various aspects of another example wireless communication topology 310B of the wireless communication network 300. Figure 3B In the example, the wireless communication topology 310B of the wireless communication network 300 is different from that of the wireless communication network 300. Figure 3AThe wireless communication network 300 shown has a wireless communication topology 310A. In this case, a wireless communication topology 310B is formed by associating one or more STA devices with one or more APs based on sensing-based metrics. In some examples, a wireless communication topology may be formed for motion localization in space 301. In this case, the wireless communication topology for wireless data communication is the same as the motion sensing topology for motion sensing. Controlling the wireless communication topology can cause devices 332A, 332B, and 332F (e.g., via corresponding wireless links 344A, 344B, 344F) to be associated with AP 328B, while devices 332C, 332D, and 332E can (e.g., via corresponding wireless links 344C, 344D, 344E) to be associated with AP 328A. Similarly, controlling the wireless communication topology can cause device 332G (e.g., via wireless link 344G) to be associated with AP 326.

[0075] Wireless sensing software (e.g., motion detection software) running on one or more of devices 332A, 332B, 332C, 332D, 332E, 332F, and 332G, or on one or more of APs 326 and 328, can collect and process data (e.g., channel information) corresponding to the wireless motion sensing links in the motion sensing topology that perform motion sensing measurements. The wireless sensing software can be installed as a user application on the device or AP, or it can be part of the operating system on the device or AP. The wireless sensing software and the wireless communication network can form a wireless sensing system.

[0076] In some implementations, AP devices 326 and 328 do not include wireless sensing software and are not otherwise configured to perform motion detection in space 301. Instead, in such implementations, the wireless sensing software runs on STA devices 332A, 332B, 332C, 332D, 332E, 332F, and 332G. In some examples, the wireless sensing software running on the STA devices can utilize channel information provided by the client devices' radio firmware (e.g., WiFi radio firmware) to collect and process the channel information. In some implementations, client devices 332A, 332B, 332C, 332D, 332E, 332F, and 332G send requests to their associated APs 326 and 328 to transmit wireless signals that can be used by the client devices as motion detectors to detect motion of objects in space 301. Requests sent to the associated APs 326 and 328 can be empty data packets, beamforming requests, pings, standard data services, or combinations thereof.

[0077] In some implementations, results obtained from running wireless sensing software (e.g., a determination related to whether movement has occurred in space 301 or the location of movement in space 301) can be provided to the end user in real time. Additionally or alternatively, results obtained from the wireless sensing software can be stored (e.g., locally stored on client device 332 or AP 326, 328 or on a cloud-based storage service) and analyzed to reveal statistics to the end user over a specific time frame (e.g., hours, days, or months). In some implementations, alerts (e.g., notifications, audio, or video alerts) can be provided to the end user based on results obtained from the wireless sensing software. For example, the wireless sensing system can communicate motion detection events to other devices or systems (such as security systems or control centers). As another example, the wireless sensing system can communicate motion detection events to caregivers or emergency contacts designated by the end user.

[0078] As an alternative in some cases, a motion sensing topology can be defined for motion detection that differs from the wireless communication topology. For example, a motion sensing topology can be created without modifying the association between any STA device and AP device in the multi-AP wireless communication network 300. In this case, the wireless communication topology (e.g., Figure 3A 310A or Figure 3B The 310B topology in the wireless communication network 300 is used for network services and possible other wireless network functions, while different motion sensing topologies are used for motion sensing functions and possible other wireless sensing applications. Therefore, a new wireless link (e.g., a virtual link) in the motion sensing topology can be exclusively used for wireless motion sensing (but not for wireless network services or other wireless network functions). In this case, the new wireless link serves as a wireless motion sensing link in the motion sensing topology of the wireless communication network 300, but is not used in the wireless communication topology of the wireless communication network 300. For Figure 8A , Figure 8B Let's illustrate with an example.

[0079] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating various aspects of an example process 400 for controlling a motion sensing topology in a wireless communication network. In some implementations, the wireless communication network is a standardized wireless communication network that performs the example process 400 and operates based on wireless communication standards (examples of which are Wi-Fi Direct, IEEE 802.11md, and IEEE 802.11ax). The wireless communication network performing the example process 400 includes multiple access point (AP) devices and at least one client station (STA) device. In some implementations, the wireless communication network includes (e.g., set up with...) Figures 3A to 3B The central AP 326 is a multi-AP controller. In some examples, the example processor 400 can be used to determine, control, modify, or reconfigure. Figures 8A to 8B The example multi-AP wireless communication network shows a motion sensing topology.

[0080] At 402, a wireless communication topology for the multi-AP wireless communication network is formed. As shown in example process 400, operation 402 includes sub-operation 416, in which an ESS is formed and a motion sensing topology is initialized. In some instances, a user can power on the AP devices. When the AP devices are powered on, they can communicate with each other to form an ESS. In some implementations, the wireless communication topology is initialized once the ESS is formed. In some instances, the initial motion sensing topology is the same as the wireless communication topology (e.g., the initial wireless communication topology obtained during sub-operation 416). In some implementations, a coordination list of parameters exchanged between all AP devices within the ESS can be generated by the operation of the multi-AP controller. For example, the multi-AP controller receives entries from all APs to create a complete list. The coordination list includes the name of each BSS, the operating frequency of each BSS, a list of all corresponding STA devices associated with each BSS, an indication of the BSS (where the associated STA devices are within communication range of these BSSs), and timing information for the broadcast downlink lighting transmissions of each AP device (e.g., such as...). Figure 4A and Figure 4E (See sub-operation 422 in operation 408 shown). In some implementations, this list may be updated periodically.

[0081] In some implementations, during motion sensing topology initialization, the time windows for each AP device in the ESS to transmit each broadcast illumination (e.g., when to perform downlink illumination broadcasts during operation 408) can be negotiated and determined. In some instances, the determined time windows of each AP device can be communicated to the STA device, so that the STA device knows when to change the channel used to receive downlink illumination broadcasts from the AP devices.

[0082] As shown in example process 400, operation 402 includes sub-operation 412, in which association processing is performed. Prior to association processing, the STA device may not be associated with any AP device. For example, association processing 412 can be performed between the STA device and neighboring AP devices when the STA device is powered on. In some implementations, association processing is performed to associate the STA device with AP devices within its vicinity. For example, during sub-operation 412, the STA device may send a probe request to discover AP devices within its vicinity. The probe request informs the STA device of its supported data rates and capabilities. All AP devices that receive the probe request can respond. The AP device receiving the probe request checks whether the STA device has at least one commonly supported data rate. If these devices have compatible data rates, a probe response is sent, informing the AP device of its SSID (Wireless Network Name), supported data rates, encryption type (if required), and other capabilities. The STA device then determines the compatible network based on the probe responses it has received from more than one AP device. Once the STA device has determined the AP device it wishes to associate with, the STA device can send an association request to that AP device. If the elements in the association request match the capabilities of the AP device, the AP device can create an association ID for the STA device and respond with an association response containing a success message granting network access to the STA device. In this case, the STA device successfully associates with the AP device, and data transmission as part of wireless data communication can begin on the first wireless link between the STA device and the associated AP device. In some implementations, authentication processing can be performed between the STA device and the AP device before the association request is sent from the STA device to the AP device (e.g., as...). Figure 9A The example association processing 900 and example topology optimization processing 910 are shown.

[0083] As shown in example process 400, operation 402 further includes sub-operation 414, in which the wireless communication topology is optimized. Operation 414 can occur periodically and asynchronously. In some implementations, operation 414 is omitted or optional. In some cases, the topology optimization process 414 can result in a change in the wireless communication topology. For example, a STA device can be de-associated with a first AP device and re-associated with a second AP device. In this case, the first associated wireless link between the STA device and the first AP device can be deactivated; and a second different associated wireless link between the STA device and the second AP device can be created by redirecting the STA device from the first AP device to the second AP device. In this case, indications of changes in the wireless communication topology (particularly in a changed BSS) can be transmitted to and coordinated by the multi-AP controller. In some implementations, the multi-AP controller initiates the wireless communication topology optimization process. In some instances, changes in the wireless communication topology of the wireless communication network can include, for example, one or more of the following: a new STA device joining the wireless communication network, modifications due to optional optimizations performed by the multi-AP controller, or other situations. In some instances, once the wireless communication topology is optimized and a optimized wireless communication topology is established, the motion sensing topology is updated to be identical to the optimized wireless communication topology. In other instances, the motion sensing topology remains the initial wireless communication topology.

[0084] At 404, a motion sensing topology is defined. In some cases, the motion sensing topology is initialized to be the same as the wireless communication topology (e.g., during sub-operation 416), and then updated while the wireless communication topology remains unchanged. For example, the STA device can be associated with a first AP device defining a first BSS via an associated wireless link used for wireless data communication. In this case, a wireless motion sensing link can be formed between the STA device and a second, different AP device defining a second BSS when operation 404 is performed. In this case, the STA device is not associated with the second AP device and remains associated with the first AP device. In some cases, a series of motion sensing measurements can be scheduled on the wireless motion sensing link and then performed according to the schedule. In some instances, when motion sensing measurements are performed on the wireless motion sensing link, wireless data transmission on the wireless link between the STA device and the first AP can be paused, and the data can be buffered in the first AP device or the STA device for later transmission (e.g., when the scheduled motion sensing measurements are completed and the STA device returns from "motion sensing mode" to "wireless data communication mode").

[0085] As shown in example processing 400, operation 404 receives input from operation 402. For example, during sub-operations 414 and 416 in operation 402, a list of which STA devices are associated and which STA devices are within the communication range of all available AP devices can be generated. For another example, when the BSSs within the ESS operate at different communication frequencies, and when downlink lighting processing is used for motion sensing measurements, timing information can be generated during sub-operation 416 regarding when each AP will broadcast downlink lighting so that the STA devices will know when to tune to the frequency to receive the broadcast lighting.

[0086] like Figure 4A As shown, operation 404 receives additional application instructions or constraints from application input 406. Such instructions are used during operation 404, for example, when scheduling lighting sessions within the ESS, through the operation of a multi-AP controller. In some instances, instructions that explicitly define the motion sensing topology can be received from application input 406. For example, application input 406 may provide information such as: on which AP / STA pair motion sensing measurements will be performed, and whether uplink or downlink lighting is required, whether measurements are expected in the uplink direction, downlink direction, or both; the rate at which uplink measurements will be performed; or whether single or periodic lighting is expected. In some instances, application input 406 may specify constraints that can be used to determine which STA devices and which AP devices will be used to form a wireless motion sensing link to improve motion detection, and what type of lighting (e.g., downlink or uplink lighting) will be used on that wireless motion sensing link. For example, constraints that can be included as part of application input 406 may be maximizing floor coverage, maximizing coverage in certain areas, or minimizing coverage in certain areas. In this case, the update of the motion sensing topology can be determined by the operation of the multi-AP controller after receiving the constraints in application input 406.

[0087] like Figure 4A As shown, operation 404 can also receive input from motion sensing measurement 408. In some implementations, operation 408 can transmit an indication that a measurement (e.g., a single measurement or a sequence of N periodic measurements) has been completed. In some instances, when operation 404 receives this indication from operation 408, a new measurement can be scheduled based on application input 406. In some instances, when operation 404 receives this indication from operation 408, a change in the motion sensing topology may occur based on application input 406.

[0088] In some instances, the creation of at least one motion sensing link for motion sensing can also be determined based on device-level inputs (e.g., battery life, resources, or other device-level parameters). For example, if the battery life of the STA device is below a threshold limit, the motion sensing link between the STA device and the corresponding AP device may not be used for motion sensing.

[0089] As shown in example process 400, operation 404 includes sub-operation 418, in which at least one wireless motion sensing link can be created for motion sensing. In some implementations, the wireless motion sensing link can be created as part of a motion sensing topology. The wireless motion sensing link can be created between a STA device and an AP device within communication range of the STA device but not associated with the STA device.

[0090] As shown in example process 400, operation 404 further includes sub-operation 420, in which at least one lighting session is scheduled on at least one wireless motion sensing link. In some instances, operation 420 can be used to coordinate motion sensing processing in a wireless communication network relative to a motion sensing topology. Operation 418 is used to coordinate measurements between STA devices and AP devices within an ESS in the uplink and downlink directions. Figure 4A As shown, operation 420 is performed based on information about the wireless communication topology obtained from operation 402, information about the motion sensing topology obtained during operation 418, and instructions / constraints from application input 406. In some instances, the motion sensing topology also includes wireless links, each between two associated AP devices and STA devices. In this case, lighting sessions are also scheduled on these wireless links.

[0091] In some instances, multiple wireless motion sensing links for motion sensing measurements can be established between a single STA device and multiple corresponding AP devices located near that STA device. The STA device can operate at different frequencies when communicating with the multiple corresponding AP devices during a corresponding scheduled lighting session. Similarly, multiple wireless motion sensing links for motion sensing measurements can also be established between a single AP device and multiple corresponding STA devices. In this case, the AP devices can operate on the same channel when communicating with the multiple corresponding STA devices during a corresponding scheduled lighting session.

[0092] At 408, motion sensing measurements are performed. These measurements can be initialized by a multi-AP controller and can be performed by individual AP devices and STA devices based on the motion sensing topology and scheduled lighting sessions. In some implementations, motion sensing measurements can be performed on at least one wireless motion sensing link established during operation 404. In some implementations, operation 408 includes one or more downlink lighting processes on one or more wireless motion sensing links and / or one or more uplink lighting processes on one or more wireless motion sensing links.

[0093] As shown in example process 400, operation 408 includes sub-operation 422, in which downlink illumination processing is performed on the wireless motion sensing link. In example operation 422, the STA device listens for broadcast illumination transmissions from the AP device on the wireless motion sensing link at a pre-scheduled time, determines channel state information, and calculates a channel estimate for motion sensing purposes. In some examples, when the STA device is wirelessly data communicating with the associated first AP device on a first frequency, the STA device may need to switch to a second, different frequency at the scheduled downlink illumination session to receive downlink illumination transmitted on the wireless motion sensing link from the second AP device. In some examples, when the first AP device and the second AP device are operating on the same frequency, it may not be necessary for the STA device to switch to a different frequency to receive downlink illumination from the second AP device. In some implementations, wireless data communication between the STA device and the associated first AP device may be temporarily suspended on the associated wireless link. In this scenario, the data can be buffered on the first AP device or STA device, and the data is recovered until the STA device returns from the "motion sensing mode" with the second AP device to the "wireless data communication mode" with the first AP device.

[0094] In such an implementation, the wireless communication standard used can provide the STA device with the ability to detect AP devices in the ESS that the STA device is not currently associated with (e.g., ...). Figure 4A and Figure 4F(See uplink illumination processing 424). This enables the STA device to maintain its association with another AP device for communication purposes while simultaneously detecting AP devices in the ESS that are not currently associated. In this case, a motion-sensing topology, distinct from the wireless communication topology, is formed within the wireless communication network. In some implementations, the motion-sensing topology and the wireless communication topology can operate independently, together, or in a controlled manner, allowing for optimized performance in wireless data communication and motion sensing. In some implementations, the motion-sensing topology includes at least one wireless motion-sensing link that is not part of the wireless communication topology.

[0095] As shown in example process 400, operation 408 includes sub-operation 424, in which uplink illumination processing is performed on the wireless motion sensing link. Operation 424 is performed in addition to operation 422, or as an alternative to operation 422. In some implementations, operation 424 may be a higher-level (e.g., application-based) criterion (e.g., location) selection for determining the motion sensing topology. In some implementations, operation 424 may be an automated optimization that can construct a 3D map of the device locations using time-of-flight (e.g., round-trip time) measurements between all devices (e.g., STA devices and AP devices). In some implementations, input related to the physical location of the devices may be provided by the end user.

[0096] In processing 400, the wireless communication standard used enables any AP device in a multi-AP wireless communication network ESS to draw channel lighting transmissions from any STA device within communication range. Furthermore, the wireless communication standard used provides one or more of the following: STA devices can send lighting to non-associated AP devices (e.g., AP devices within the ESS); AP devices can request or draw channel lighting transmissions from non-associated STA devices; and AP devices can synchronize with and listen to (broadcast) transmissions from non-associated STA devices.

[0097] In some implementations, each AP device in a motion-sensing topology includes a sensing agent. For example, a sensing processor can be deployed on any AP device, on a separate device, or otherwise. In some implementations, the sensing agent is software that can be installed on either the AP device or the STA device. The sensing agent is configured to perform sensing-related operations beyond the normal Wi-Fi defined behavior. For example, when a sensing agent is integrated on an AP device, it can facilitate downlink broadcast transmissions during defined time windows. As another example, a sensing agent on an AP device can facilitate the extraction of channel information from uplink transmissions received from an STA device. For example, a sensing agent can also be integrated on an STA device, facilitating channel switching for uplink transmissions during defined time windows. As another example, a sensing agent on an STA device can facilitate the reception of downlink broadcast transmissions from the AP device and the extraction of channel information from the received downlink broadcast transmissions. In some implementations, a sensing processor is a device that includes a motion-sensing algorithm and is configured to process channel information data to extract motion-sensing outputs. In some instances, an EES may include one or more sensing processors. In some examples, the sensing processor may be located on a device that measures channel information (e.g., an AP device or a device located in the cloud), or the sensing processor may be located on a different device (e.g., a dedicated device with more computing power).

[0098] In some aspects described herein, when performing motion sensing measurements, the observed channel response set is obtained based on a set of wireless signals transmitted through space (or a propagation environment). Each wireless signal in the set of wireless signals transmitted in the environment can be an orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) signal, which may include, for example, a PHY frame. In some instances, the PHY frame may include one or more conventional PHY fields, one or more MIMO training fields, or both. Example conventional PHY fields include conventional long training fields (L-LTF), conventional short training fields (L-STF), and other types of conventional PHY fields. Example MIMO training fields include high-efficiency long training fields (HE-LTF), ultra-high throughput long training fields (VHT-LTF), high throughput long training fields (HT-LTF), and other types of MIMO training fields. The observed channel response set can be obtained using fields from the PHY frames of the wireless signals in the set of wireless signals. In some instances, the observed channel response set includes frequency domain channel responses, and each frequency domain channel response in the frequency domain channel response set may correspond to a corresponding wireless signal in the set of wireless signals. The motion of an object in space can cause changes in one or more of the frequency domain channel responses, and the changes observed in the set of frequency domain channel responses can be used to detect the motion of objects in space.

[0099] In some implementations, during operation 408, channel information (e.g., CSI) of each communication link, including the associated wireless link and / or at least one wireless motion sensing link, can be transmitted to one or more motion detection algorithms running on a sensing processor and analyzed by the one or more motion detection algorithms to detect, for example, whether motion has occurred in space, determine the relative location of the detected motion, or both. The sensing processor may be included in a hub device, a client device (e.g., a STA device), or other device in a wireless communication network, or may be included on a remote device. In some aspects, the channel information of each communication link may be analyzed to detect, for example, whether an object exists or does not exist in the absence of detected motion in space.

[0100] In some implementations, the sensing processor can output motion data based on measured channel information. In some instances, downlink illumination transmissions can be received from the AP device over a wireless motion sensing link (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 9B Following this (as described above), the measured channel information is received from the STA device using a sensing processor. In some instances, uplink illumination transmissions (e.g., as described above) can be received from the STA device over a wireless motion sensing link. Figure 9C Following the description in [the document], the measured channel information is received from the AP device using a sensing processor. In some implementations, motion data is the result of an indication of the degree of motion in space, the location of the motion in space, the time of the motion, or a combination thereof. In some instances, motion data may include a motion score, which may include or be one or more of the following: a scalar indicating the level of signal disturbance in an environment accessed by wireless signals; an indication of the presence of motion; an indication of the presence of an object; or an indication or classification of gestures performed in an environment accessed by wireless signals.

[0101] Figure 4B This is a flowchart illustrating various aspects of the example motion sensing topology initialization process 416. (See flowchart for details.) Figure 4B As shown, example process 416 includes: operation 416A, in which the AP device and the new BSS join the ESS; operation 416B, in which sensing agent processing (e.g., its control of motion sensing topology) is initiated on the AP device; and operation 416C, in which the sensing agents on each AP device perform configuration synchronization across the ESS (which may result in parameter exchange between AP devices). In some implementations, synchronization may include time windows and / or channel protocols used for broadcast lighting.

[0102] Figure 4C It is shown Figure 4A The example flowchart illustrates various aspects of the association process 412. Figure 4CAs shown, the example association process 412 includes: operation 412A, in which the STA device scans and determines the basic service set (BSS) to connect to; operation 412B, in which the STA device performs the association process; and operation 412C, in which the association of the STA device to the BSS is completed.

[0103] Figure 4D It is shown Figure 4A The flowchart in the example topology optimization process 414 is shown. Figure 4D As shown, the example topology optimization process 414 includes: operation 414A, in which the multi-AP controller of the multi-AP wireless communication network performs ESS optimization processing (e.g., determining the wireless communication topology); and operation 414B, in which the multi-AP controller determines other BSSs within the ESS to which the STA device will be transferred. In some instances, a new association process can be performed between the STA device and the AP device that defines the BSS to which the STA device will be transferred (e.g., Figure 4C Example association processing 412 is shown in the figure.

[0104] Figure 4E This is a flowchart illustrating various aspects of an example motion sensing measurement process 422. In some instances, the STA device may be associated with a first AP device operating at a first operating frequency different from a second operating frequency of a second AP device used for transmitting broadcast lighting for motion sensing. In some implementations, a lighting session is conducted between the STA device and the second AP device of the target BSS, during which the STA device receives broadcast lighting transmitted by the second AP and channel information of the wireless motion sensing link between the STA device and the second AP device can be determined. In some instances, the lighting session is conducted on communication links within the motion sensing topology (e.g., associated wireless links and at least one wireless motion sensing link).

[0105] At 422A, the STA device wakes up at the indicated time and tunes its frequency to the second operating frequency of the target BSS from which the second AP device will transmit broadcast lighting. In some implementations, the second operating frequency can be determined during operation 408. The knowledge of the second operating frequency and timing interval is provided to the STA device during operation 418. In this case, multiple STA devices can simultaneously receive the same broadcast lighting transmitted by the second AP device. In this case, all STA devices within range of the second AP device will be tuned to the second operating frequency to receive the broadcast lighting transmitted by the second AP device. In some instances, the STA device receiving the broadcast lighting transmitted by the second AP device may have already been operating on the second operating frequency prior to the scheduled lighting session.

[0106] At 422B, the second AP device transmits broadcast lighting. In some implementations, at the highest layer, this broadcast transmission includes a digital payload that can be used to identify the transmission to the receiver (e.g., the STA device) and indicate that the broadcast transmission is the intended broadcast lighting. The digital payload of the broadcast transmission may conform to a defined 802.11 MAC format and may take the form of a defined message type / subtype (such as a control, management, or data message) or a newly defined message utilizing reserved type / subtype bits. In some instances, the 802.11 MAC format includes the MAC address of the AP device that identifies the transmitter (e.g., the AP device). At the PHY layer, the message may be encapsulated in one of several PHY frame types. For example, the broadcast transmission may be part of a conventional PHY frame, an HT PHY frame, a VHT PHY frame, or an HE PHY frame. In some instances, the selection may depend on which devices are intending to receive the message. For example, an HT PHY cannot receive a VHT transmission. In some instances, multiple generations of PHYs may be included to receive broadcast transmissions. In this scenario, a commonly supported PHY frame format can be used, or broadcast transmissions can include multiple transmissions of different PHY frame formats. At a minimum, illumination transmissions will include a preamble (e.g., L-LTF, HT-LTF, VHT-LTF, HE-LTF) from which channel estimation can be calculated.

[0107] At 422C, the broadcast illumination is then received by the STA device and channel measurements are performed. For example, knowledge of the PHY transmission used to determine channel information is obtained. In some implementations, the channel information of the wireless motion-sensing link between the STA device and the second AP device is determined by the STA device.

[0108] At 422D, the determined channel information is transmitted by the STA device to the sense processor for processing. In some instances, the STA device may return to the first operating frequency of its associated first AP device and transmit a digitized version of the determined channel information to the sense processor via the first AP device over the associated radio link. In some instances, when a broadcast transmission (or specifically an L-LTF / HT-LTF / VHT-LTF / HE-LTF waveform) is received, the STA device down-converts and digitizes the RF signal associated with the broadcast transmission. For example, this step may involve operations such as: directly placing the raw output from the STA device, quantizing the raw output to a specific positioning resolution, compressing (lossy or lossless) to improve efficiency, or performing digital signal processing operations such as filtering or interpolation.

[0109] In the case of downlink illumination, the time interval between transmissions is determined during operation 416 because the illumination transmission is broadcast by the second AP device. The rate depends on the sensing application performed on the wireless communication network; for example, for a motion detection application, the rate might be determined to be 100 ms. This means that different illumination rates are not possible in the downlink direction between the AP device and multiple STA devices. In some implementations, different STA devices within the range of the second AP device can receive different subsets of the broadcast illumination from the second AP device. For example, the first STA device (e.g., STA1) receives each first illumination, but STA2 receives each second illumination. In some implementations, STA devices can be configured to receive broadcast transmissions from different AP devices that are not associated with the STA device during different time windows. In other words, a single STA device can be used in multiple different motion sensing links to perform motion sensing measurements during different time windows.

[0110] In some instances, during downlink illumination, the AP device may transmit beacons that can be received by STA devices within its range. In some instances, for example, for the purpose of advertising BSS and capabilities, the AP device transmits beacons periodically. In some implementations, this transmission may be used as illumination identified during operation 420.

[0111] Figure 4F It is shown as follows Figure 4A The flowchart illustrates various aspects of the example motion sensing measurement process 424. In some cases, the STA device is associated with the first AP device via an associated wireless link at a first operating frequency. Example process 424 is an uplink illumination process during which the STA device transmits uplink illumination to the second AP device over the wireless motion sensing link at a second operating frequency. (The remaining text will be omitted.) Figure 4A During operation 418, knowledge of the second operation frequency and timing interval can be obtained.

[0112] At 424A, the STA device, for example, is tuned from a first operating frequency to a second operating frequency at which the second AP device is operating.

[0113] At 424B, illumination is transmitted from the STA device to the second AP device. In some instances, the illumination transmission includes a preamble (L-LTF, HT-LTF, VHT-LTF, HE-LTF, EHT-LTF) from which a channel estimate can be calculated. In some implementations, an illumination notification message may precede the illumination transmission, informing the second AP device that illumination will be transmitted within a specific time interval. The illumination notification message may include the STA device identifier or session identifier to which the next illumination belongs. In other examples, the illumination transmission may include a preamble from which a channel estimate can be calculated, along with the STA device or session identifier.

[0114] At 424C, the second AP device receives illumination from the STA device. When the second AP device receives the illumination notification message, it can obtain knowledge of the STA device. The second AP device calculates the channel information of the wireless motion sensing link. In some implementations, the channel information is determined from L-LTF, HT-LTF, VHT-LTF, and HE-LTF. LTF is the defined waveform being transmitted. The received waveform version is compared with the ideal or expected waveform; therefore, the transformation from the ideal waveform to the received waveform must be caused by the channel.

[0115] Figure 5 This is a block diagram illustrating various aspects of an example wireless communication network 500 that performs motion sensing topology control. Figure 5 In the example, the space includes a first level and a second level. STA device 502 and first AP device 504 are located in the first level, while second AP device 506 is located in the second level. A user can assign the tag "F1" to STA device 502 and first AP device 504, thereby (e.g., via wireless link 508A) associating STA device 502 with first AP device 504 for motion detection. The user can assign another tag "F2" to second AP device 506, which is different from the tag assigned to STA device 502. Therefore, although STA device 502 can be associated with second AP device 506 (e.g., via wireless link 508B) in a wireless communication topology, in a motion sensing topology, STA device 502 forms a motion sensing link with first AP device 504. Therefore, motion M1 on wireless link 508A can be detected. Therefore, in Figure 5 In the example, regardless of the underlying network or wireless communication topology, tags assigned to layers, AP devices, and STA devices can be used to make motion sensing detection decisions.

[0116] Figure 6This is a block diagram illustrating various aspects of an example wireless communication network 600 controlling a motion sensing topology. In the illustrated example, all available communication links (e.g., links with relatively high Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI)) between the STA device and all AP devices within the ESS are illuminated or measured in a coordinated manner (e.g., sequentially or randomly). In some examples, using sequential measurements, the communication links can be measured sequentially in a cyclic manner in one or more uplink and / or downlink directions. In some examples, in random measurements, the probability of measuring each communication link in one or more uplink and / or downlink directions at any given time is equal. As a result of channel measurements of all wireless links available to the STA device, time series of each individual link are generated. As an example, in Figure 6 In the example, wireless link 608A is available to STA device 602 for association with AP device 604. Similarly, wireless link 608B is available to STA device 602 for association with AP device 606. Wireless links 608A and 608B are illuminated, thereby generating corresponding time series for each wireless link 608A and 608B. As mentioned above, the timing of detecting wireless links 608A and 608B can be randomized. The time series of each wireless link 608A and 608B can then be correlated with a global motion time series to determine the motion topology. As an example, since wireless link 608A has a substantially horizontal coverage area and wireless link 608B has a substantially vertical coverage area, wireless link 608A may be more suitable for motion (e.g., has greater sensitivity to motion) compared to wireless link 608B. Assume that the global motion time series is described as a time series M(n). In some implementations, M(n) represents the time series of motion detected at any location in space using the entire set of wireless links. In some examples, M(n) is a signal with values ​​taken from the set of 0 and 1, where a value of 0 indicates that no motion was detected along all wireless links at any given time point, and a value of 1 indicates that motion was detected along at least one wireless link at any given time point. Furthermore, it is assumed that: M TL11 (n) represents the time series generated by probing the 608A wireless link, and M TL12 (n) represents the time series generated by probing the 608B wireless link. Then, (e.g., over several hours or days) the global time series M(n) is compared with the time series M... TL11 The correlation between M(n) and the global time series M(n) and the time series M TL12 The comparison of the correlation of (n) can indicate which of the AP devices 604 and 606 will be used together with the STA device 602 to form a motion sensing topology.

[0117] In some examples, the global time series M(n) and the time series M TL11 The correlation of (n) can be expressed as The global time series M(n) and the time series M TL12 The correlation of (n) can be expressed as

[0118] Extending the above representation to i STA devices, j AP devices, and a general time window, the correlation between the global time series M(n) and the time series of the communication link between the i-th STA device and the j-th AP device can be expressed as:

[0119]

[0120] Correlation r ij This can be considered as the distance d between the STA device and the AP device. ij The inverse metric. Therefore, Furthermore, higher correlation can indicate a smaller distance between the STA and AP devices. In some implementations, distance can refer to the distance between the STA and AP devices measured in terms of the number of floors. In such implementations, the distance between devices located on the same floor is "0", while the distance between devices located one floor apart may be "1". In some implementations, controlling the motion sensing topology may include optimizing the motion sensing topology to reduce the distance d between the STA and AP devices. ij This is constrained by the topology used for motion sensing or detection, where each STA device is connected to only one AP device. This optimization can be expressed as:

[0121] Make

[0122] In the examples discussed above, client-to-client probing and all-AP-device-to-all-AP-device probing can be used for localization. Furthermore, optimizing the motion sensing topology of the communication links between STA and AP devices can occur for Wi-Fi motion sensing in a multi-AP architecture. In some implementations, in addition to optimizing the motion sensing topology, the wireless communication topology can also be optimized. In some implementations, maximum conversion power can be requested for wireless (e.g., Wi-Fi) motion sensing.

[0123] The above examples can be configured to operate based on wireless communication standards, such as Wi-Fi Direct, IEEE 802.11md, IEEE 802.11az, IEEE 802.11ax, and IEEE 802.11be. In some implementations, using the IEEE 802.11az standard allows non-associated STA devices to request round-trip time (RTT) measurements (a protocol similar to probe). Therefore, the IEEE 802.11az standard can be used in time-of-flight positioning. In some implementations, the IEEE 802.11md standard may describe a first-generation version of RTT, while the IEEE 802.11az standard may describe a second-generation version of RTT. Therefore, the IEEE 802.11az standard can include features that can be extended for sensing. In some implementations, using the IEEE 802.11ax standard (Wi-Fi 6) allows the use of high-efficiency PHY (HE-PHY) frames in sensing applications. In some implementations, the use of the IEEE 802.11be standard (Wi-Fi 7) allows for the use of extremely high throughput PHY (EHT-PHY) frames in sensing applications.

[0124] Figure 7 This is a block diagram illustrating an example wireless communication device 700. (See diagram below.) Figure 7 As shown, the example wireless communication device 700 includes an interface 730, a processor 710, a memory 720, and a power supply unit 740. Wireless communication devices (e.g., Figure 1 The wireless communication devices 700 (any of the wireless communication devices 102A, 102B, and 102C) may include additional or different components, and the wireless communication device 700 may be configured to operate as described with respect to the above examples or in another manner. In some implementations, the interface 730, processor 710, memory 720, and power supply unit 740 of the wireless communication device are housed together in a common housing or other assembly. In some implementations, one or more components of the wireless communication device may be housed individually, for example, in a separate housing or other assembly.

[0125] Example interface 730 can communicate (receive, transmit, or both) wireless signals. For example, interface 730 can be configured to communicate radio frequency (RF) signals formatted according to wireless communication standards (e.g., Wi-Fi, 4G, 5G, Bluetooth, etc.). In some implementations, example interface 730 includes a wireless electronic system and a baseband subsystem. The wireless electronic system may, for example, include one or more antennas and RF circuitry. The wireless electronic system can be configured to communicate RF wireless signals over a wireless communication channel. As an example, the wireless electronic system may include a radio chip, an RF front end, and one or more antennas. The baseband subsystem may, for example, include digital electronics configured to process digital baseband data. In some cases, the baseband subsystem may include a digital signal processor (DSP) device or other type of processor device. In some cases, the baseband system includes digital processing logic to operate the wireless electronic system, communicate wireless communication network services through the wireless electronic system, or perform other types of processing.

[0126] The example processor 710 can execute instructions to generate output data, for example, based on data input. Instructions may include programs, code, scripts, modules, or other types of data stored in memory 720. Additionally or alternatively, instructions may be encoded as pre-programmed or reprogrammable logic circuits, logic gates, or other types of hardware or firmware components or modules. Processor 710 may be or include a general-purpose microprocessor as a dedicated coprocessor or other type of data processing device. In some cases, processor 710 performs high-level operations of wireless communication device 700. For example, processor 710 may be configured to execute or interpret software, scripts, programs, functions, executable files, or other instructions stored in memory 720. In some implementations, processor 710 may be included in interface 730 or other components of wireless communication device 700.

[0127] Example memory 720 may include a computer-readable storage medium, such as a volatile memory device, a non-volatile memory device, or both. Memory 720 may include one or more read-only memory devices, random access memory devices, buffer memory devices, or combinations of these and other types of memory devices. In some instances, one or more components of the memory may be integrated with or otherwise associated with other components of the wireless communication device 700. Memory 720 may store instructions executable by processor 710. For example, these instructions may include instructions for performing one or more of the operations described above.

[0128] Example power supply unit 740 provides power to other components of wireless communication device 700. For example, other components may operate based on power supplied by power supply unit 740 via a voltage bus or other connection. In some implementations, power supply unit 740 includes a battery or battery system, such as a rechargeable battery. In some implementations, power supply unit 740 includes an adapter (e.g., an AC adapter) that receives an external power signal (from an external source) and converts it into an internal power signal regulated for the components of wireless communication device 700. Power supply unit 740 may include other components or operate in other ways.

[0129] Figure 8A This is a schematic diagram illustrating various aspects of an example Enhanced Service Set (ESS) 800. The example ESS 800 has a first wireless communication topology. (It can be...) Figure 4A and Figure 4B The example association process 412 shown forms the first wireless communication topology of example ESS 800. Specifically, example ESS 800 includes two basic service sets (BSS), such as a first BSS (BSS1) 810 and a second BSS (BSS2) 820. BSS1 810 includes a first access point device (AP1) 811; and BSS2 820 includes a second access point device (AP2) 821. ESS 800 may include additional or different features, and the components of ESS 800 may be configured as follows: Figure 8A The operation may be carried out in another manner.

[0130] like Figure 8A As shown, STA1 812A belongs to BSS1 810 and has undergone association processing (e.g., as...). Figure 4B The example shown is associated with process 412. Therefore, in the first wireless communication topology, STA1 812A is associated with AP1 811. STA2 812B and STA3 822A belong to BSS2 820 and have also undergone association processing. Therefore, in the first wireless communication topology, STA2 812B and STA3 822A are associated with AP2 821. STA1 812A is connected to AP1 811 via a first wireless link 813A; STA2 812B is connected to AP2 821 via a second wireless link 823B; and STA3 822A is connected to AP2 821 via a third wireless link 823A. In some instances, the frequencies of the first wireless link 813A, the second wireless link 823A, and the third wireless link 823B may be the same and may be determined by the respective AP1 811 or AP2 821. In some instances, AP1 811 and AP2 821 may operate on different frequencies.

[0131] The range of BSS1 810 is controlled by AP1 811, and the range of BSS2 820 is controlled by AP2 821. All STA devices within the range of a BSS (e.g., BSS1 810 or BSS2 820) are within the communication range of the BSS and can join the BSS if they have the required security credentials. The operating frequency used by STA devices belonging to a BSS is controlled by the AP of the BSS (e.g., AP1 811 of BSS1 810 or AP2 820 of BSS2 820). In some cases, the operating frequency of a BSS may be the same as that of another different BSS. In some cases, the operating frequencies of different BSSs in ESS 800 may be different from each other.

[0132] AP1 811 is the controller for BSS1 810. AP1 811 determines the operating frequencies used for communication by all associated devices. Similarly, AP2 821 is the controller for BSS2 820. AP2 821 determines the operating frequencies used for communication by all associated devices. In some implementations, one of AP1 811 and AP2 821 may act as a multi-AP controller, a role that helps optimize and balance all BSSs (e.g., BSS1 810 and BSS2 820) within the example ESS 800.

[0133] STA2 812B is located in the overlapping area 830 of BSS1 810 and BSS2 820, where AP1 811 and AP2 821 are both within communication range. All STA devices within the overlapping area 830 can join either BSS1 810 or BSS2 820. In some implementations, the decision of which STA device within the overlapping area 830 is associated with either BSS can be determined by a multi-AP controller, which can be either AP1 (811) or AP2 (821). Figure 8A In the example shown, in the first wireless communication topology, STA2 812B is associated with AP2 821 of BSS2 820.

[0134] Figure 8B This is a schematic diagram illustrating various aspects of the example Enhanced Service Set (ESS) 830. The example ESS 830 has a second wireless communication topology. Figure 4A and Figure 4CThe example topology shown is optimized in process 414 to form a second wireless communication topology for example ESS 830. Specifically, example ESS 830 includes two basic service sets (BSS), for example, a first BSS (BSS1) 810 and a second BSS (BSS2) 820. BSS1 810 includes a first access point device (AP1) 811; and BSS2 820 includes a second access point device (AP2) 821. ESS 830 may include additional or different features, and the components of ESS 830 may be configured as follows: Figure 8B The operation may be carried out in another manner.

[0135] like Figure 8B As shown, in the second wireless communication topology, STA2 812B (as previously described in...) Figure 8A The ESS 800 shown, with the first wireless communication topology, is associated with AP2 821 and AP1 811. In this case, STA2 812B undergoes deassociation and reassociation processes. Figure 8B The wireless link 813A between STA1 812A and AP1 811 and the wireless link 823A between STA3 822A and AP2 821 in the second wireless communication topology shown are... Figure 8A The corresponding wireless links in the first wireless communication topology shown are the same. STA2 812B is connected to AP1 811 via a fourth wireless link 813B. In some instances, the operating frequency of the fourth wireless link 813B may be the same as the operating frequency of the first wireless link 813A and the second wireless link 823A, and may be determined by AP1 811.

[0136] The wireless communication topology of an ESS can be controlled, tuned, and otherwise modified. For example... Figure 8A and Figure 8B As shown, the first and second wireless communication topologies of ESS 800 and ESS 830 are different. For example, STA2812B is associated with AP2 821 in the first wireless communication topology, but with AP1 811 in the second wireless communication topology. In this case, due to load balancing and network optimization operations performed by the multi-AP controller (which can be AP1, AP2, cloud-based logic, or other devices), it can be determined that STA2 812B is associated with the first BSS1 defined by the first AP1 811 instead of the second BSS2 defined by the second AP2 821. The criteria used by the multi-AP controller can be based on optimizing wireless data communication requirements rather than motion sensing requirements.

[0137] like Figure 8BAs shown, STA2 812B is located within the overlapping area 830 between BSS1 810 and BSS2 820. For motion sensing measurement purposes, the wireless link 813B between STA2 812B and AP1 811 may not be suitable for motion sensing measurements (e.g., wireless link 813B has vertical coverage spanning two levels within a home). A wireless motion sensing link 831A (dashed line) representing the channel between STA2 812B and AP2 821 can be formed. In some examples, STA2 812B may illuminate the wireless motion sensing link 831A at a predetermined time. The channel information of the wireless motion sensing link can be determined by AP2 821 and transmitted to the sensing processor. In some examples, AP2 821 may illuminate the wireless motion sensing link 831A, and the channel information of the wireless motion sensing link 831A may be determined by STA2 812B and transmitted via wireless link 813B to the associated AP1 811 and further transmitted to the sensing processor.

[0138] Figure 9A This is a ladder diagram illustrating various aspects of the example association processing 900 and the example topology optimization processing 910. The example association processing 900 can be performed between the client station device (STA2 902) and the access point device (AP2 904B). For example, the client station device (STA2 902) and the access point device (AP2 904B) can be implemented as follows: Figure 8A The example ESS 800 shows STA2 812B and AP2 821. An example topology optimization process 910 can be performed between the client station device (STA2 902), the first access point device (AP1 904A), and the second access point device (AP2 904B). The client station device (STA2 902) is associated with the second access point device (AP2 904B) but not with the first access point device (AP1 904A). The wireless communication topology of the ESS is optimized by associating the client station device (STA2 902) with the first access point device (AP1 904A). For example, the client station device (STA2 902), the first access point device (AP1 904A), and the second access point device (AP2 904B) can be implemented as follows: Figure 8B The example shown is STA2 812B, AP1 811, and AP2821 from ESS 830. (As shown...) Figure 9A The example processes 900 and 910 shown may include additional or different operations (including operations performed by additional or different components), and these operations may be performed in the order shown or in another order. In some cases, the operations in example processes 900 and 910 may be combined, iterated, or otherwise repeated or performed in other ways.

[0139] In some implementations, authentication is performed between STA2 902 and AP2 904B during association processing 900. In some instances, the authentication process includes a four-way handshake, where the STA verifies its identity with the AP and establishes data encryption. Figure 9A As shown, an association request is transmitted from STA2 902 to AP2 904B. In some implementations, the association request includes the capabilities of the STA device and the requested operating parameters. Upon receiving the association request, AP2 904B can approve or disapprove the STA device's connection to the wireless communication network. In some instances, in response to approving the STA device's connection to the wireless communication network, an association identifier (AID) can be assigned to the STA device, and an association response can be transmitted from AP2 904B to STA2 902. In response to disapproving the STA device's connection to the wireless communication network, the reason for disapproval can be shared. In some instances, STA2 902 is associated with AP2 904B and becomes part of the BSS defined by AP2 904B (e.g., Figure 8A (The second BSS2 820 in the text). In some implementations, the association processing 900 can be implemented as follows: Figure 4A and Figure 4B The example association process 412 described above, or implemented in other ways.

[0140] In some implementations, during topology optimization process 910, a BSS transition management request is transmitted from AP2 904B to STA2 902. In some instances, the BSS transition management request includes a request to move to another BSS within the ESS. When STA2 902 receives the BSS transition management request, it is advised to take action and move to the advised BSS. In some instances, a BSS transition management response is transmitted from STA2 902 to AP2 904B. In some implementations, after STA2 902 becomes unassociated with AP2 904B, a new association process is performed to associate STA2 902 with AP1 904A according to association process 900.

[0141] Figures 9B to 9CThis is a ladder diagram illustrating various aspects of the example motion sensing measurement processes 920 and 930. The example motion sensing measurement processes 920 and 930 can be performed between a client station device (STA2 902) and an access point device (AP2 904B). In this case, STA2 902 is associated with a first access point device (AP1 904A) and not with a second access point device (AP2 904B); and a wireless motion sensing link exists between STA2 902 and AP2 904B for performing motion sensing measurements. For example, STA2 902 and AP2 904B can be implemented as... Figure 8B The example shown is STA2812B and AP2 821 in ESS 830. (As shown...) Figures 9B to 9C The example processes 920 and 930 shown may include additional or different operations (including operations performed by additional or different components), and these operations may be performed in the order shown or in another order. In some cases, they may be combined, iterated, or otherwise repeated, or performed in other ways such as Figures 9B to 9C The example shown processes 920 and 930.

[0142] In some implementations, the motion sensing measurement process 920 is a downlink illumination process during which illumination is transmitted from AP2 904B to STA2 902. In some instances, the motion sensing measurement process 920 can be implemented as follows: Figure 4A and Figure 4E The downlink illumination processing 422, or implemented in other ways, is described above. For example... Figure 9BAs shown, the motion sensing measurement process 920 includes multiple lighting sessions according to a predetermined schedule. Before lighting transmission, a NullFunc message is sent from STA2 902 to AP1 904A to indicate that STA2 902 will be temporarily unavailable, utilizing the sleep mechanism defined in 802.11. In some instances, the NullFunc message can be used to notify AP1 904A that STA2 902 will be unavailable for a specified amount of time. For example, a PowerManagement bit with a value of 1 (e.g., PowerManagement = 1) can be included in the NullFunc message in the MAC header. After receiving the NullFunc message, wireless data communication between STA2 902 and AP1 904A is interrupted. In some cases, communication data to STA2 902 can be buffered in AP1 904A until the lighting process is complete and communication between STA2 902 and AP1 904A is re-established. In some implementations, the CIS value on the wireless motion-sensing link between STA2 902 and AP2 904B is measured by STA2 902 during illumination processing. Once illumination processing is complete, a second NullFunc message is transmitted from STA2 902 to AP1 904A to notify AP1 904A that STA2 902 has become available, for example, by setting the value of the PowerManagement bit to 0 (e.g., PowerManagement = 0). In some implementations, this occurs when AP1 904A and AP2 904B are using different communication channels (e.g., different frequencies). Figure 9B The process described above. The determined channel information is then transmitted from STA2 902 to the sensing processor 906. In some instances, the sensing processor 906 may operate as AP1 904A, AP2 904B, a multi-AP controller, a cloud-based device, or other device, wherein sensing algorithms can be performed based on the determined channel information received from STA2 902.

[0143] In some implementations, the downlink lighting session can be repeated after a period of time when a second downlink lighting session is possible. Between two scheduled downlink lighting sessions in its motion-sensing mode, STA2 902 can return to its wireless communication mode to, for example, transmit or receive data from the associated AP1 904A. Downlink lighting processing can be performed by multiple client stations and access points. All client stations that have formed wireless motion-sensing links with the access point and have scheduled lighting sessions can perform downlink lighting processing with the access point. In this case, the access point can broadcast lighting messages that can be received by multiple client station devices.

[0144] In some implementations, motion sensing measurement 930 is an uplink illumination process during which illumination is transmitted from STA2 902 to AP2 904B. In some instances, motion sensing measurement 930 can be implemented as follows: Figure 4A and Figure 4F The uplink illumination processing 424, or implemented in other ways, is described above. For example... Figure 9C As shown, the motion sensing measurement process 930 includes multiple lighting sessions performed according to a predetermined schedule.

[0145] like Figure 9C As shown, the motion sensing measurement process 930 includes multiple lighting sessions according to a predetermined schedule. Before the lighting transmission, a first NullFunc message is transmitted from STA2 902 to AP1 904A. In some instances, the first NullFunc message may be used to notify AP1 904A that STA2 902 will be unavailable during the scheduled time while a lighting session is in progress. For example, a PowerManagement bit with a value of 1 (e.g., PowerManagement = 1) may be included in the first NullFunc message. In some implementations, channel information related to the wireless motion sensing link between STA2 902 and AP2 904B is measured by AP2 904B during the lighting process. This channel information is then transmitted from AP2 904B to the sensing processor. Once the lighting process is complete, a second NullFunc message is transmitted from STA2 902 to AP1 904A to notify AP1 904A that STA2 902 is available, for example, by setting the value of the PowerManagement bit to 0 (e.g., PowerManagement = 0). In some implementations, this is done when AP1 904A and AP2 904B are using different communication channels (e.g., different frequencies). Figure 9C The aforementioned processing.

[0146] In some instances, the sensing processor may be an AP1 904A, AP2 904B, or other wireless communication device within the ESS (e.g., such as...). Figures 8A to 8B (Shown ESS 800 and ESS 830). In some implementations, the various access points within the ESS that are involved in motion sensing measurement processing include sensing agents.

[0147] Some of the subjects and operations described in this specification can be implemented in digital electronic circuits, or in computer software, firmware, or hardware, including the structures disclosed in this specification and their equivalents, or combinations of one or more of these structures. Some of the subjects described in this specification can 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 device or for controlling the operation of a data processing device. The computer storage medium can be, or may be included in, a computer-readable storage device, a computer-readable storage substrate, a random or serial access memory array or device, or combinations of one or more of these. Furthermore, although the computer storage medium is not a propagating signal, it can be a source or destination of computer program instructions encoded in an artificially generated propagating signal. The computer storage medium can also be, or be included in, one or more separate physical components or media (e.g., multiple CDs, discs, or other storage devices).

[0148] A portion of the operations described in this specification can be implemented by a data processing device on data stored on one or more computer-readable storage devices or received from other sources.

[0149] The term "data processing device" encompasses all kinds of devices, apparatuses, and machines used for processing data, including, for example, programmable processors, computers, systems-on-a-chip, or a combination thereof. The device may include special-purpose logic circuitry, such as FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays) or ASICs (Application-Specific Integrated Circuits). In addition to hardware, the device may also include code for creating the execution environment of the computer program in question, such as code constituting processor firmware, protocol stacks, database management systems, operating systems, cross-platform runtime environments, virtual machines, or a combination of one or more of these.

[0150] Computer programs (also known as programs, software, software applications, scripts, or code) can be written in any form of programming language, including compiled or interpreted languages, declarative or procedural languages, and can be deployed in any form, including as standalone programs or as modules, components, subroutines, objects, or other units suitable for use in a computing environment. Computer programs may, but do not need to, correspond to files in a file system. A program may be stored as a portion of a file that serves to hold other programs or data (e.g., one or more scripts stored in a markup language document) in a single file dedicated to the program, or in multiple coordinating files (e.g., files for storing portions of one or more modules, subroutines, or code). Computer programs can be deployed to execute on a single computer, or on multiple computers located at a single site or distributed across multiple sites and interconnected via a communication network.

[0151] Some of the processing and logic flows described in this specification can be performed by one or more programmable processors executing one or more computer programs to act by manipulating input data and generating outputs. These processing and logic flows can also be performed by dedicated logic circuits, and the device can also be implemented as dedicated logic circuits, such as FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays) or ASICs (Application-Specific Integrated Circuits).

[0152] To provide interaction with the user, the operation can be implemented on a computer having a display device (e.g., a monitor or other type of display device) for showing information to the user, and a keyboard and pointing devices (e.g., a mouse, trackball, tablet, touchscreen, or other type of pointing device) through which the user provides input to the computer. Other types of devices can also be used to provide interaction with the user; for example, feedback provided to the user can be any form of sensory feedback, such as visual, auditory, or tactile feedback; and input from the user can be received in any form, including sound, speech, or tactile input. Additionally, the computer can interact with the user by sending and receiving documents relative to the device used by the user (e.g., by sending a web page to a web browser in response to a request received from a web browser on the user's client device).

[0153] In general, the motion sensing topology of a multi-AP wireless communication network can be controlled.

[0154] In the first example, the method is performed by a multi-AP controller of a multi-access point (multi-AP) wireless communication network. The multi-AP wireless communication network includes a first AP device and a second AP device. The wireless communication topology of the multi-AP wireless communication network is identified. If the wireless communication topology is identified, it is determined that a first client station device is associated with the first AP device in the multi-AP wireless communication network. A motion sensing topology, different from the wireless communication topology, is defined. The motion sensing topology includes a wireless motion sensing link between the first client station device and the second AP device. A motion sensing measurement based on the motion sensing topology is initiated. This motion sensing measurement uses the wireless motion sensing link between the first client station device and the second AP device, while the first client station device remains associated with the first AP device in the multi-AP wireless communication network.

[0155] The implementation of the first example may include one or more of the following features: If a motion sensing topology is defined, the motion sensing topology is initialized to be the same as the wireless communication topology, and after the motion sensing topology is initialized, the motion sensing topology is modified to include a wireless motion sensing link. If the motion sensing topology is initialized, information describing the attributes of the multi-AP wireless communication network is received, and an initial motion sensing topology is defined based on this information. The information describing the attributes of the multi-AP wireless communication network includes at least one of the following: the communication frequencies of the AP devices in the multi-AP wireless communication network; a list of AP devices and their associated client station devices; or a list of AP devices (with corresponding client station devices within the communication range of these AP devices). If the motion sensing topology is defined, a wireless motion sensing link is defined to improve motion detection capabilities.

[0156] The implementation of the first example may include one or more of the following features: Application input is received by the multi-AP controller of the multi-AP wireless communication network. These application inputs are used as constraints when defining the motion sensing topology. A series of lighting sessions is scheduled on the wireless motion sensing link when motion sensing measurements are initialized. Each lighting session in this series includes downlink lighting processing. Each lighting session in this series includes uplink lighting processing. Information identifying the scheduled series of lighting sessions is sent to the second AP device and the first client station device when motion sensing measurements are initialized.

[0157] In the second example, the system includes a first access point device, a second access point device, and a multi-AP controller in a multi-AP wireless communication network. The multi-AP controller is configured to perform one or more operations as in the first example.

[0158] In the third example, a non-transitory computer-readable medium stores instructions that are operable when executed by a multi-AP controller in a multi-AP wireless communication network including a first AP device and a second AP device, to perform one or more operations of the first example.

[0159] Although this specification contains numerous details, these details should not be construed as limiting the scope of claims, but rather as descriptions of features specific to particular examples. Specific features described in this specification or shown in the accompanying drawings may also be combined in the context of individual implementations. Conversely, the various features described or shown in the context of a single implementation may also be implemented individually in multiple embodiments or in any suitable sub-combination.

[0160] Similarly, although these operations are depicted in a specific order in the accompanying drawings, this should not be construed as requiring these operations to be performed in the specific order or sequence shown, or to perform all of the shown operations, in order to achieve the desired result. In certain situations, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Furthermore, the separation of the various system components in the above-described implementations should not be construed as requiring such separation in all implementations, and it should be understood that the program components and systems described can typically be integrated together into a single product or packaged into multiple products.

[0161] Many embodiments have been described. However, it should be understood that various modifications can be made. Therefore, other embodiments are within the scope of the above description.

Claims

1. A method by a multi-access point wireless communication network, i.e. a multi-AP wireless communication network, controller to initiate a motion sensing measurement in a multi-AP wireless communication network, the multi-AP wireless communication network comprising a first access point device, i.e. a first AP device, and a second AP device, the method comprising: identifying a wireless communication topology of the multi-AP wireless communication network, wherein identifying the wireless communication topology comprises identifying that a first client station device is associated with the first AP device in the multi-AP wireless communication network; defining a motion sensing topology different from the wireless communication topology, the motion sensing topology comprising a wireless motion sensing link between the second AP device and the first client station device associated with the first AP device; and initiating the motion sensing measurement based on the motion sensing topology, wherein the motion sensing measurement uses the wireless motion sensing link between the first client station device and the second AP device while the first client station device remains associated with the first AP device in the multi-AP wireless communication network.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, defining the motion sensing topology comprises: initializing the motion sensing topology to be the same as the wireless communication topology; and after initializing the motion sensing topology, modifying the motion sensing topology to include the wireless motion sensing link.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein, initializing the motion sensing topology comprises: receiving information describing properties of the multi-AP wireless communication network; and defining an initial motion sensing topology based on the information.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein, the information comprises at least one of: a communication frequency of AP devices in the multi-AP wireless communication network; a list of AP devices and associated client station devices; and a list of AP devices with respective client station devices within a communication range of the AP devices.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein, defining the motion sensing topology comprises defining the wireless motion sensing link to improve motion detection capabilities.

6. The method of claim 1, further comprising: receiving application input; and using the application input as a constraint in defining the motion sensing topology. initiating the motion sensing measurement comprises scheduling a series of illumination sessions on the wireless motion sensing link.

7. The method of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, each illumination session in the series of illumination sessions comprises a downlink illumination process.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein, each illumination session in the series of illumination sessions comprises an uplink illumination process.

9. The method of claim 7, wherein, initiating the motion sensing measurement comprises sending information identifying the scheduled series of illumination sessions to the second AP device and the first client station device.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein, 11. A system comprising: a first access point device, i.e. a first AP device, and a second AP device in a multi-access point wireless communication network, i.e. a multi-AP wireless communication network; and a multi-AP controller configured to perform operations comprising: identifying a wireless communication topology of the multi-AP wireless communication network, wherein identifying the wireless communication topology comprises identifying that a first client station device is associated with the first AP device in the multi-AP wireless communication network; ​ define a motion-sensing topology distinct from the wireless-communication topology, the motion-sensing topology including a wireless motion-sensing link between the second AP device and the first client station device associated with the first AP device; and initiate motion-sensing measurements based on the motion-sensing topology, wherein the motion-sensing measurements use the wireless motion-sensing link between the first client station device and the second AP device while the first client station device remains associated with the first AP device in the multi-AP wireless-communication network.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein, defining the motion-sensing topology includes: initializing the motion-sensing topology to be the same as the wireless-communication topology; and after initializing the motion-sensing topology, modifying the motion-sensing topology to include the wireless motion-sensing link.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein, initializing the motion-sensing topology includes: receiving information describing properties of the multi-AP wireless-communication network; and defining an initial motion-sensing topology based on the information.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein, the information includes at least one of: communication frequencies of AP devices in the multi-AP wireless-communication network; a list of AP devices and associated client station devices; and a list of AP devices with respective client station devices within communication range of the AP devices.

15. The system of claim 11, wherein, defining the motion-sensing topology includes defining the wireless motion-sensing link to improve motion-detection capabilities.

16. The system of claim 11, further comprising: receiving application input; and using the application input as a constraint in defining the motion-sensing topology.

17. The system of any one of claims 11 to 16, wherein, initiating the motion-sensing measurements includes scheduling a series of illumination sessions on the wireless motion-sensing link.

18. The system of claim 17, wherein, each illumination session in the series of illumination sessions includes downlink illumination processing.

19. The system of claim 17, wherein, each illumination session in the series of illumination sessions includes uplink illumination processing.

20. A non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising instructions operable when executed by a data processing apparatus to perform operations of a multi-access point wireless-communication network (multi-AP wireless-communication network) controller, the multi-AP wireless-communication network including a first access point device (first AP device) and a second AP device, the operations comprising: identifying a wireless-communication topology of a multi-AP wireless-communication network, wherein identifying the wireless-communication topology includes identifying that a first client station device is associated with the first AP device in the multi-AP wireless-communication network; defining a motion-sensing topology distinct from the wireless-communication topology, the motion-sensing topology including a wireless motion-sensing link between the second AP device and the first client station device associated with the first AP device; and initiating motion-sensing measurements based on the motion-sensing topology, wherein the motion-sensing measurements use the wireless motion-sensing link between the first client station device and the second AP device while the first client station device remains associated with the first AP device in the multi-AP wireless-communication network. ​ 21. A computer program product comprising instructions operable when executed by a data processing apparatus to perform operations of a multi-access point wireless communication network (multi-AP wireless communication network) controller, the multi-AP wireless communication network comprising a first access point device (first AP device) and a second AP device, the operations comprising: identifying a wireless communication topology of the multi-AP wireless communication network, wherein identifying the wireless communication topology comprises identifying that a first client station device is associated with the first AP device in the multi-AP wireless communication network; defining a motion-sensing topology distinct from the wireless communication topology, the motion-sensing topology comprising a wireless motion-sensing link between the second AP device and the first client station device that is associated with the first AP device; and initiating a motion-sensing measurement based on the motion-sensing topology, wherein the motion-sensing measurement uses the wireless motion-sensing link between the first client station device and the second AP device while the first client station device remains associated with the first AP device in the multi-AP wireless communication network.

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