Coordinated spatial multiplexing method for multiple access points

Abstract

An apparatus implemented in a master AP selects at least one basic service set (BSS) from one or more neighboring BSSs to form a spatial reuse group (SRG). The apparatus then performs coordinated spatial reuse (CSR) in the SRG with a set of overlapping basic service set (OBSS) power detection (PD) parameters.

Description

[0001] Related citations

[0002] This invention is part of a non-provisional patent application that claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Applications Nos. 62 / 916,354 and 62 / 947,062, filed on October 17, 2019 and December 12, 2019, respectively, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This invention generally relates to wireless communication, and more specifically, to coordinated spatial reuse (CSR) protocols and algorithms for multiple access points (APs). Background Technology

[0004] Unless otherwise indicated herein, the methods described in this section are not the background art of the following claims and are not acknowledged as such by virtue of their inclusion in this section.

[0005] Multi-AP coordination in wireless local area networks (WLANs) is a candidate feature under the IEEE 802.11be standard. Several multi-AP coordination schemes have been discussed, including joint transmission (JTX), coordinated beamforming (CBF), coordinated spatial reuse (CSR), and coordinated orthogonal frequency division multiple access (OFDMA). It is believed that improved performance, such as higher throughput and improved interference control, can be achieved via CSR under IEEE 802.11be compared to the spatial reuse (SR) scheme specified in the IEEE 802.11ax standard. However, details regarding the design of how to implement multi-AP coordination schemes still need to be addressed. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The following overview is illustrative only and is not intended to be limiting in any way. That is, it is provided to introduce the concepts, key points, benefits, and advantages of the novel and non-obvious techniques described herein. The choice of implementation will be further described in the detailed description below. Therefore, the following overview is not intended to identify the essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to determine the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to provide schemes, concepts, designs, techniques, methods, and apparatus related to multi-AP CSR in wireless communication networks such as WLANs. Specifically, various protocols and algorithms for multi-AP CSR are proposed in this invention. Since commercial Wi-Fi systems typically offer little control over the deployment environment, this invention proposes multiple protocols for CSR that depend on interference levels measured from the Overlapping Basic Service Set (OBSS) and AP coordination to achieve good spatial multiplexing gain with reduced interference.

[0008] In one aspect, a method may involve selecting at least one BSS from one or more adjacent BSSs to form a spatial multiplexing group (SRG). The method may also involve performing a common spatial reusable group (CSR) within the SRG using a set of power detection (PD) parameters from the BSSs.

[0009] On the other hand, a method may involve a device implemented in a primary AP receiving a report from each of one or more coordinating APs associated with the primary AP regarding the receive power of the one or more coordinating APs. The method further involves the device selecting at least one of the one or more STAs based on the reports received from each of the one or more STAs. The method may further involve the device selecting a coordinating AP from the one or more coordinating APs. The method may additionally involve performing CSR transmissions in conjunction with at least one coordinating AP.

[0010] It is worth noting that although the description herein may be made in the context of certain radio access technologies, networks, and network topologies (such as Wi-Fi), the proposed concepts, schemes, and any variations / derivatives thereof may be applicable to, targeted at, and derived from other types of radio access technologies, such as, but not limited to, Bluetooth, ZigBee, 5G / New Radio (NR), LTE, LTE-Advanced, LTE-Pro, Internet of Things (IoT), Industrial IoT (IIoT), and Narrowband IoT (NB-IoT). Therefore, the scope of the invention is not limited to the examples described herein. Attached Figure Description

[0011] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this invention. The drawings illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. It will be understood that the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, as some components are shown out of scale to illustrate the concepts of the invention.

[0012] Figure 1 The present invention illustrates various solutions and exemplary network environments in which various solutions can be implemented, as well as schemes.

[0013] Figure 2An exemplary scenario according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0014] Figure 3 An exemplary scenario according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0015] Figure 4 An exemplary scenario according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0016] Figure 5 An exemplary scenario according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0017] Figure 6 An exemplary scenario according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0018] Figure 7 An exemplary scenario according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0019] Figure 8 An exemplary scenario according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0020] Figure 9 An exemplary scenario according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0021] Figure 10 An exemplary scenario according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0022] Figure 11 An exemplary scenario according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0023] Figure 12 An exemplary scenario according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0024] Figure 13 An exemplary scenario according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0025] Figure 14 An exemplary scenario according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0026] Figure 15 An exemplary scenario according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0027] Figure 16 An exemplary scenario according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0028] Figure 17 An exemplary scenario according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0029] Figure 18 An exemplary scenario according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0030] Figure 19 An exemplary scenario according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0031] Figure 20 An exemplary scenario according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0032] Figure 21 An exemplary scenario according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0033] Figure 22 An exemplary scenario according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0034] Figure 23 An exemplary scenario according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0035] Figure 24 An exemplary scenario according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0036] Figure 25 An exemplary scenario according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0037] Figure 26 A block diagram of an exemplary communication system according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0038] Figure 27 A flowchart of an exemplary process according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0039] Figure 28 A flowchart of an exemplary process according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0040] This document discloses specific embodiments and implementations of the claimed subject matter. However, it will be understood that the disclosed embodiments and implementations are merely illustrative of the claimed subject matter and may be presented in various forms. The invention may be presented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the exemplary embodiments and implementations given herein. Rather, these exemplary embodiments and implementations are provided so that the description of the invention is thorough and complete, and fully conveys the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. In the following description, details of well-known features and techniques may be omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the presented embodiments and implementations.

[0041] Embodiments of the present invention relate to various techniques, methods, schemes, and / or solutions concerning multi-AP CSR protocols and algorithms in wireless communication. According to the present invention, many possible solutions can be implemented separately or in combination. That is, although these possible solutions can be described separately below, two or more of these possible solutions can be implemented in one combination or another.

[0042] Figure 1An exemplary network environment 100 according to the present invention is described, in which various solutions and schemes can be implemented. Figures 2-25 Examples of implementations of various proposed solutions within the network environment 100 according to the present invention are illustrated. Further descriptions of the various proposed solutions are provided below. Figures 1 to 25 To provide.

[0043] refer to Figure 1 Network environment 100 may involve multiple STAs 110(1) to 110(N) associated with and communicating with multiple APs 120(1) to 120(M) according to one or more IEEE 802.11 standards (e.g., IEEE 802.11be and future standards), where M and N are positive integers greater than 1. Under various proposed schemes according to the present invention, STAs 110(1) to 110(N) and APs 120(1) to 120(M) may be configured to execute multi-AP CSR protocols and algorithms in wireless communication according to the various proposed schemes of the present invention described below. It should be noted that several assumptions exist in the various schemes, protocols, and algorithms described in the present invention. One assumption is that each AP does not manage its associated Overlapping Basic Service Set (OBSS) STA. Another assumption is that the APs participating in multi-AP CSR (e.g., APs 120(1) to 120(M)) are within each other's wireless communication range. Another assumption is that there is no pre-assigned primary AP; however, this does not preclude the designation of a primary AP in such an operator deployment. A further assumption is that the owner of the transmission opportunity will manage the CSR transmission within the SR TXOP. An additional assumption is that there is no backhaul coordination between or among the multiple APs participating in multi-AP CSR; instead, coordination between or among the multiple APs can be communicated over-the-air (OTA). However, this assumption does not preclude backhaul coordination if the operator chooses such a deployment.

[0044] Typically, high spatial multiplexing gain can be achieved when two or more links can operate with approximately the same signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR) and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), or SINR≈SNR. For example, for a first basic service set (BSS) and a second BSS, or BSS1 and BSS2, their respective SINRs, or SINR1 and SINR2, can be expressed as: SINR1≈SNR1(i.e., (γ... 11 S1 / (γ 21 S2+N1)≈γ 11 S1 / N1)) and SINR2=SNR2(i.e., γ 22 S2 / (γ 12 S1+N2)≈γ 22S2 / N2), where S1, S2, N1, and N2 represent the signal levels and noise levels of BSS1 and BSS2, respectively. Alternatively, the two BSSs may have high path losses (γ 21 ,γ 12 ),),γ 21 S2 < N1 & γ 12 S1 < N2. Regarding spatial multiplexing and transmission (TX) power control, it can be observed that even when the two CSR transmitters reduce their TX power, the SINR is not improved. It will also be observed that a reduction in the TX power (Δx) from one BSS generally results in a smaller increase in the SINR (Δy) of the other BSS (e.g., Δy < Δx). In addition, regarding the comparison between SINR and data rate, it can be observed that for each dB change in SINR above the minimum modulation and coding scheme (MCS) (or SINR0), it can cause a change in the data rate (ΔR) of 11.3 - 22.6 Mbps before reaching the highest MCS. After reaching the highest MCS, a further increase in SINR will not increase the data rate (Ri). If the operating point is below the peak MCS and above the minimum MCS (where i represents the index of the BSS), then optimizing Σ i (SINR i – SINR0) (in dB) is close to optimizing the sum Σ i R i .

[0045] Under the solution proposed according to the present invention, the first protocol may relate to spatial multiplexing based on a spatial reuse group (SRG). When implementing the first protocol, an AP (e.g., one of AP 120(1) - 120(M)) may observe, detect, or monitor the power levels of signals received from each surrounding different BSS and determine the interference levels of the surrounding BSSs. The AP may select one or more relatively distant BSSs (e.g., the BSSs detected by the AP that cause the least interference or the lowest interference levels) to form an SRG, and the AP may determine the out-of-band signaling strength power detection (OBSS_PD) parameters associated with high path losses (e.g., above a path loss threshold) for the SRG to achieve increased spatial multiplexing within the SRG. High path losses may result in low interference to the SRG OBSS and high spatial multiplexing gain. In the first option (Option 1), no coordination may be required between the APs. In the second option (Option 2), multiple APs may jointly form an SRG (e.g., selected based on interference levels) and follow a common set of OBSS_PD parameters for fairness.

[0046] Under the proposed scheme according to the invention, the second protocol may involve coordinated downlink (DL) spatial multiplexing. When implementing the second protocol, APs (e.g., AP120(1) to AP120(M)) may record the receiving AP power from each coordinating BSS station (STA) with high interference. Furthermore, each AP may estimate the DL interference to the OBSS. Each AP may select one or more relatively distant BSSs (e.g., the BSS causing the least interference, or the lowest level of interference) for SR coordination. Each AP may request its associated STA to report a list of received power (interference) of the selected coordinating APs. STAs may subsequently report updates if necessary. The primary AP may select and notify the coordinating AP before transmitting to its receiving STA among multiple APs. This selection may be based on interference to the OBSS. A list of excluded STAs (which may suffer high interference from DL transmissions from the primary AP) may be provided by the primary AP. The coordinating APs may select from a limited number of STAs (buffering DL data at their respective APs). Under the proposed scheme, the primary AP will avoid selecting BSSs that will suffer severe interference from the primary AP. Therefore, the master AP and the coordinating AP can perform joint DL SR transmission. For example, the coordinating AP can have a limited number of STAs to select from (each with DL data buffered in its own AP). Under the proposed scheme, the master AP will avoid selecting BSSs that will be severely interfered with by the master AP. Thus, the master AP and the coordinating AP can perform joint DL SR transmission. For example, the coordinating AP can select receiving STAs with low interference from the master AP, and the master AP can adjust its MCS based on the received interference reported at the receiving STAs. It is worth noting that when transmitting parameters such as TX power, receiver sensitivity, and / or spatial multiplexing parameters (SRP), a more accurate measurement of interference can be obtained.

[0047] Figure 2 An exemplary scenario 200 according to a second protocol implementation is illustrated. Scenario 200 may involve multiple APs (such as AP1, AP2, and AP3) and multiple STAs (including STA1 and STA3). AP1 may be associated with a BSS ( Figure 2 The middle part is marked as BSS1) and AP3 can be related to another BSS ( Figure 2 This is related to the section marked as BSS3. (See reference.) Figure 2 In part (A), in scenario 200, due to low interference from AP3 to STA1, STA1 is the receiver for AP1, AP1 can act as the primary AP, and AP1 can select AP3 as the coordinating AP. (See reference) Figure 2In part (B), the initial STA in BSS1 can report the received AP power of multiple APs (e.g., AP1, AP2, and AP3) to AP1. Similarly, the STA in BSS3 can report the received AP power of multiple APs (e.g., AP1, AP2, and AP3) to AP3. AP1 can then notify AP3 that it has been selected as the coordinating AP, and AP3 can transmit a response to AP1 as acknowledgment. Subsequently, both AP1 and AP3 can perform DL transmissions; AP1 performs a DL transmission to STA1, and AP3 performs a DL transmission to STA3. Tight timing synchronization is not required between BSS1 and BSS3 for DL ​​transmissions.

[0048] Under the proposed scheme according to the invention, the third protocol may involve coordinated uplink (UL) spatial multiplexing. When implementing the third protocol, APs (e.g., AP120(1) to AP120(M)) may report received power from a coordinating BSS STA with high interference. Each AP may request its associated STA to report received power (interference) and a list of parameters of the coordinating AP. Notably, when APs also transmit parameters such as TX power, receiver sensitivity, and / or SRP, the interference level from a given STA to adjacent APs can be calculated more accurately. STAs may subsequently report updates if necessary. The master AP may decide to trigger one or more associated STAs for UL transmission. The master AP may also select from a plurality of selected STAs triggered by the master AP the coordinating AP with the lowest level of interference or interference for UL transmission (e.g., based on reports from the selected STAs). The master AP may notify the BSS associated with the coordinating AP of a list of excluded STAs (which will cause high interference to the master AP). Each coordinating AP may select one or more associated STAs from non-excluded STAs (which will cause high interference to the master AP) for UL transmission. Then, the primary AP and the coordinating AP can trigger coordinated joint UL SR transmissions from the selected STA. It is worth noting that the "acceptable interference level" in the SRP allows APs to control the amount of interference they can tolerate, striking a trade-off between increasing the interference level and increasing spatial multiplexing.

[0049] Figure 3 Scenario 300 is illustrated according to an implementation of the third protocol. Scenario 300 may involve multiple APs (such as AP1, AP2, and AP3) and multiple STAs (including STA1 and STA3). AP1 may be connected to a BSS ( Figure 3 (marked as BSS1) is associated with AP3 and AP3 can be associated with another BSS ( Figure 3 (Associated with BSS3). Reference Figure 3In Part (A), in Scenario 300, due to the low interference from STA1 to AP3, AP1 can act as the primary AP, and AP1 can select AP3 as the coordinating AP. AP1 can send a list of excluded STAs to AP3. Furthermore, AP3 can select STA3 as the receiver from a list of non-excluded STAs based on a list received from AP1. (See reference) Figure 3 In part (B), the initial STA in BSS1 can report the received AP power (and SRP, if available) of multiple APs (e.g., AP1, AP2, and AP3) to AP1. Similarly, a STA in BSS3 can report the received AP power (and SRP, if available) of multiple APs (e.g., AP1, AP2, and AP3) to AP3. AP1 can then notify AP3 of a list of excluded (or non-excluded) STAs, and AP3 can transmit a response to AP1 as an acknowledgment. Subsequently, each AP1 and AP3 can transmit a UL trigger to its associated STA to trigger UL transmission in BSS1 and BSS3, respectively. Tight timing synchronization is not required between BSS1 and BSS3 for UL triggering and UL transmission.

[0050] Under the scheme proposed according to the present invention, the first protocol involves coordinated UL spatial multiplexing with TX power control. In implementing the fourth protocol, all coordinated APs can request their associated STAs to observe the received power levels of a series of coordinated APs. Notably, when APs also transmit parameters such as TX power, receiver sensitivity, and / or SRP, the interference level from a given STA to its neighboring APs can be calculated more accurately. The master AP can select a coordinated AP based on reports from its selected receiving STAs and inform the coordinated AP about SR opportunities and the master AP's SRP. The master AP can adjust the "acceptable interference level" in the SRP to balance its interference level with the higher throughput (TX power level) of the coordinated BSS. Therefore, the master AP and coordinated APs can trigger UL transmissions. For example, each coordinated AP can transmit the master AP's SRP to the associated UL-triggered STA. Furthermore, each triggering UL STA in the coordinated BSS can control its TX power based on the master AP's received SRP.

[0051] Figure 4 An exemplary scenario according to a fourth protocol implementation is illustrated. Scenario 400 may involve multiple APs (such as AP1, AP2, and AP3) and multiple STAs (including STA1 and STA3). AP1 may be associated with a BSS (labeled as...). Figure 4 In BSS1, AP3 can be associated with another BSS (labeled as...). Figure 4 This is related to BSS3. (See reference) Figure 4In section (A) of the diagram, in scenario 400, AP1 can act as the primary AP and can select AP3 as the coordinating AP. STA1 can be a receiver of AP1, and STA3 can be a receiver of AP3. In scenario 400, STA3 can perform TX power control based on AP1's SRP. (See reference...) Figure 4 In part (B), the STA in the initial BSS1 reports the received AP power of neighboring APs (e.g., AP2 and AP3), and similarly, the STA in BSS3 can report the received AP power of neighboring APs (e.g., AP1 and AP2). AP1 can then notify AP3 of its SRP, and AP3 can transmit a response to AP1 as an acknowledgment. Subsequently, each AP1 and AP3 can transmit a UL trigger to its associated STA to trigger UL transmission in BSS1 and BSS3. The STA performing the UL transmission in BSS1 (e.g., STA3) can perform TX power control based on AP1's SRP. Tight timing synchronization is not required between BSS1 and BSS3 for UL triggering and UL transmission.

[0052] Under the scheme proposed according to the present invention, the fifth protocol can involve joint UL transmission with receiver interference cancellation. When implementing the fifth protocol, each AP can have more antennas for performing receiver interference cancellation. The master AP can select and notify coordinating APs for CSR UL transmission with receiver interference cancellation. The number of UL STAs from the coordinating BSS can be limited by the number of AP antennas. Therefore, the master AP and the coordinating AP can trigger UL transmissions in their respective BSSs. UL Physical Layer Convergence Protocol (PLCP) Protocol Data Units (PPDUs) from all UL STAs can carry decomposable (e.g., commonly orthogonal) Long Training Fields (LTFs) to enable the master AP and the coordinating AP to cancel interference from STAs in the coordinating BSS.

[0053] Figure 5An example scenario 500 according to a fifth protocol implementation is illustrated. Scenario 500 may involve multiple APs (e.g., AP1 and AP2) and multiple STAs (including STA1 and STA2). In scenario 500, AP1 and AP2 may use receiver nulling (e.g., with CBF) to eliminate interference from OBSS STAs during joint UL transmission. AP1 and AP2 may determine the spatial size or rank for receiving UL transmissions of their respective BSSs and nulling the OBSS. AP1 and AP2 may also determine the joint P matrix at this time. During UL transmission, each UL STA in the two coordinated BSSs may have a unique orthogonal vector (e.g., a P matrix) from the joint LTF or decomposable LTF to allow decomposition of all UL transmissions of its own BSS and OBSS. Each AP1 and AP2 may nullify or cancel interference from its respective OBSS (e.g., with CBF) during its UL reception.

[0054] Figure 6 An exemplary scenario 600 according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. Scenario 600 may involve coordinated SRUL-DL transmission. Scenario 600 may involve multiple APs (such as AP1, AP2, and AP3) and multiple STAs (including STA1 and STA3). AP1 may be associated with a BSS (labeled as...). Figure 6 In BSS1, AP3 can be associated with another BSS (labeled as...). Figure 6 This is related to BSS3 in [the context of the document]. (See reference [the document]). Figure 6 In Part (A) of Scenario 600, due to the low interference from AP3 to AP1, AP1 can act as the primary AP and AP1 can select AP3 as the coordinating AP. STA1 can be the receiver of AP1, and STA3 can be the receiver of AP3. In Scenario 600, due to the low interference from BSS1 to STA3, AP3 can select STA3 as the receiver. (See reference...) Figure 6 In part (B), the initial AP can measure interference from other APs (e.g., AP2 and AP3). Additionally, the STA in BSS1 can report the received AP power (and SRP, if available) of neighboring APs (e.g., AP2 and AP3), and similarly, the STA in BSS3 can report the received AP power (and SRP, if available) of neighboring APs (e.g., AP1 and AP2). AP1 can then notify AP3 of its selection as the coordinating AP, and AP3 can transmit a response to AP1 as an acknowledgment. Subsequently, AP1 can transmit a UL trigger to its associated STA to trigger a UL transmission in BSS1. Simultaneously, AP3 can perform a DL transmission to the STA in BSS3.

[0055] Figure 7An exemplary scenario 700 according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. Scenario 700 may involve coordinating SR DL-UL transmissions. Scenario 700 may involve multiple APs (such as AP1, AP2, and AP3) and multiple STAs (including STA1 and STA3). AP1 may be associated with a BSS (labeled as...). Figure 7 In BSS1, AP3 can be associated with another BSS (labeled as...). Figure 7 This is related to BSS3 in [the context of the document]. (See reference [the document]). Figure 7 In part (A), due to the low interference observed by STA1 from BSS3 and also due to the low interference caused by AP1 to BSS3, AP1 can act as the primary AP and AP1 can select AP3 as the coordinating AP. STA1 can be the receiver of AP1, and STA3 can be the receiver of AP3. In scenario 700, due to the low interference from STA3 to BSS1, AP3 can select STA3 as the receiver. (See reference...) Figure 7 In part (B), AP1 can initially measure interference from other BSSs (e.g., at least BSS3). Additionally, STAs in BSS1 can report the received AP power (and SRP, if available) of neighboring APs (e.g., AP2 and AP3), and similarly, STAs in BSS3 can report the received AP power (and SRP, if available) of neighboring APs (e.g., AP1 and AP2). AP1 can then inform AP3 of its selection as the coordinating AP, and AP3 can transmit a response to AP1 as confirmation. Subsequently, AP3 can transmit a UL trigger to its associated STA to initiate a UL transmission in BSS3. Furthermore, AP1 can simultaneously perform a DL transmission to the STAs in BSS1.

[0056] Figure 8 An exemplary scenario 800 according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. Under the proposed scheme according to the present invention, CSR can be combined with OFDMA. Under the proposed scheme, available resource units (RUs) can be divided into dedicated RUs and shared RUs, and one or more of the proposed protocols of the present invention can be applied to the shared RUs. Furthermore, each shared RU can be utilized in a CSR with different coordinating APs. Thus, scenario 800 illustrates an example of inter-AP SR and bandwidth (BW) resource negotiation for OFDMA and various protocols of the present invention. Reference Figure 8 Initially, AP1 (as the primary AP) can notify AP2 and AP3 of the available bandwidth for spatial multiplexing. Each AP2 and AP3 can request some or all of the available bandwidth, and AP1 can grant some or all of the available bandwidth. Subsequently, AP1, AP2, and AP3 can perform SR transmission using OFDM in conjunction with one or more of the proposed protocols of this invention.

[0057] Figure 9 An exemplary scenario 900 of a CSR protocol phase for measurement and reporting according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. Under the proposed scheme according to the invention, participating APs and STAs can perform OBSS measurements regarding measurement. For example, by transmitting a measurement request element, the master AP can request participating APs and STAs to perform OBSS measurements. Furthermore, under the proposed scheme, each participating STA can report the OBSS measurement to its associated AP in a measurement report element. For example, the report can be requested by the participating AP or initiated by the participating STA. Additionally, under the proposed scheme, AP-to-AP information exchange can be performed. That is, participating APs can exchange measurement reports; in some cases, some SR optimization algorithms may not require information exchange between APs. It is worth noting that OBSS measurements may depend on the deployed SR optimization algorithms. For example, regarding OBSS measurements by the AP, the beacon report (e.g., measurement report element) can provide the BSS identifier (BSSID), number of channels, received channel power indicator (RCPI), and received signal-to-noise ratio indicator (RSNI), and such a beacon report may not be needed under some SR optimization algorithms. Regarding OBSS measurements by the STA, measurements by the OBSS STA can be difficult because the OBSS STA may not need to perform a transmission during the measurement. Some SR optimization algorithms may require the transmission of relevant requested parameters that may depend on previously transmitted parameters (e.g., TX power, receiver sensitivity, and / or SRP). Reference Figure 9 In Phase 1, during measurement and reporting, participating APs and STAs can perform measurements, and the SR-related parameters that may need to be transmitted depend on the SR optimization algorithm. Furthermore, in Phase 1, participating STAs can report their OBSS measurements to their respective APs. In Phase 2, it is marked as... Figure 9 During the SRTXOP phase, SR TXOP indication and request can be transmitted, followed by scheduling and TX power allocation, and then data transmission (UL and / or DL).

[0058] Figure 10An exemplary scenario 1000 of the CSR protocol period for SR TXOP according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Under the proposed scheme according to the invention, regarding SR TXOP indication and request, the TXOP owner can transmit an indication to notify the selected neighboring AP of the acquired SR TXOP. Neighboring APs can transmit a request to notify the TXOP owner of their intention to participate in SR TX. When the algorithm used depends on the type of SR information, neighboring APs can also provide the required SR information from OBSS measurements to the TXOP owner for SR throughput optimization. Under the proposed scheme, regarding the allocation of SR transmission scheduling and TX power levels, the TXOP owner can allocate sub-channels, TX power levels, TXOP periods, and TX start times to neighboring APs. Participating APs can notify their associated STAs of the allocated sub-channels, the allocated TXOP periods, and the TX start time. Under the proposed scheme, regarding SR data transmission, within the allocated TXOP, participating APs can transmit on their respective allocated sub-channels (with TX power control) after the TX start time. Figure 10 During Phase 1, when measurement and reporting are performed, participating APs and STAs can perform measurements and, depending on the SR optimization algorithm, may need to transmit SR-related parameters. Furthermore, in Phase 1, participating STAs can report their OBSS measurements to their respective APs. Phase 2 is marked as... Figure 10 During the SR TXOP, SR TXOP indication and request can be transmitted, followed by scheduling and TX power allocation, and then data transmission (UL and / or DL).

[0059] Figure 11 An exemplary scenario 1100 of UL SR according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Under the proposed scheme according to the present invention, SR UL operation can be based on the SR optimization algorithm described below. The TXOP owner can determine TX power control based on the following maximum sum rate criterion:

[0060] MAX ΔTX_PWR1,ΔTX_PWR2,ΔTX_PWR2,.. (SUM(R1+R2+R3…))

[0061] Here, ΔTX_PWR1, ΔTX_PWR2, and ΔTX_PWR3 represent the TX power adjustment of the UL transmitting STA, and SUM(R1+R2+R3…) represents the sum rate of the SR transmitting BSS. The TXOP owner can select the SR BSS based on the interference to the target receiving STA.

[0062] Under the proposed scheme, when implementing the SR optimization algorithm, the primary AP may need information on the spatial loss of each SR link. (Reference) Figure 11Scenario 1100 may involve AP1, AP2, STA1, and STA2. In Scenario 1100, information on the spatial loss of all SR links may involve the following: the PL of the receiver at STA1. AP1→STA1 and PL AP2→STA1 and the PL of the receiver in STA2 AP1→STA2 and PL AP2→STA2 The space loss can be derived from the received power of the STA's trigger frame and the AP TX power in the common field of the OFDMA trigger frame. STA1 can report its measured space loss and its maximum TX power PSTA1 to AP1, and STA2 can report its measured space loss (or received beacon power) and its maximum TX power P to AP2. STA2 The primary AP (e.g., AP1) can collect the noise floor (NF) of AP2. AP2 The measured space loss (or received beacon power) and the maximum TX power collected by the master AP from neighboring APs can also be used to estimate the space loss for each STA. It is worth noting that an alternative method for estimating space loss for each STA could be to measure the received OBSS beacon power and report it to its associated AP. Neighboring OBSS APs can transmit to the master AP the noise floor of the associated STA, the AP's beacon TX power, and the received beacon power measured by the STA.

[0063] Figure 12 An exemplary scenario 1200 of UL SR phase 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Under the scheme proposed according to the present invention, each AP can request its associated STA to perform SR measurements (e.g., path loss from its own AP and the OBSS AP) and report the measurements. For example, in step 1 (involving measurement), two options (e.g., option 1 and option 2) can be adopted. In option 1, each AP can use a measurement request element to request its associated STA to perform measurements, and the STA can use a beacon reporting element to report the OBSS AP measurements. In option 2, the STA can measure the received power from the OBSS trigger frame and calculate the spatial loss based on the AP TX power in the common field of the OFDMA trigger frame. In step 2 (involving reporting), each STA can report the measured spatial loss (or the measured beacon power) and its maximum TX power to its associated AP.

[0064] Figure 13 An exemplary scenario 1300 of stage 2 of a UL SR according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 14 An exemplary scenario 1400 of an alternative method for deriving space loss according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. (See also...) Figure 13 as well as Figure 14Scenario 1300 and Scenario 1400 may involve AP1, AP2, STA1, and STA2. Under the scheme proposed according to the present invention, regarding SR TXOP indications and requests, the TXOP owner (e.g., AP1 as the primary AP) can transmit an indication to notify the selected neighboring AP of the obtained SR TXOP. Neighboring APs can be selected based on measurement reports from the target receiving STAs from the TXOP owner. Neighboring APs (e.g., AP2) can transmit requests to notify the TXOP owner (e.g., AP1) of their intention to participate in SR TX and to provide information such as P... STA2 (max), PL AP2→STA2 PL AP1→STA2 and its NF AP2 Alternatively, the received beacon power and the beacon TX power level can be provided. Under the proposed scheme, regarding SR allocation, the TXOP owner can allocate SR transmission schedules and the required TX power level (e.g., P') to selected neighboring APs. STA1 、P' STA2 This can be calculated using the SR algorithm. Furthermore, regarding SR transmission, the SR AP can transmit UL trigger frames, and the SR STA can use the allocated TX power level (P'). STA1 、P' STA2 Transmit UL data.

[0065] Figure 15 An exemplary scenario of DL SR according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Under the proposed scheme according to the present invention, SR DL operation can be based on the SR optimization algorithm described below. The TXOP owner (e.g., the master AP) can determine the TX power control of neighboring APs based on the maximum sum rate criterion, as follows:

[0066] MAX ΔTX_PWR1,ΔTX_PWR2,ΔTX_PWR2,.. (SUM(R1+R2+R3…))

[0067] Here, ΔTX_PWR1, ΔTX_PWR2, and ΔTX_PWR3 represent the TX power adjustment of the DL transmission STA, and SUM(R1+R2+R3…) represents the sum rate of the SR transmission BSS. The TXOP owner can select the SR BSS based on the interference to the target receiving STA.

[0068] Under the proposed scheme, when implementing the SR optimization algorithm, the main AP needs information on the spatial loss of each SR link. (Reference) Figure 15 Scenario 1500 can involve AP1, AP2, STA1, and STA2. In Scenario 1500, information on the spatial loss of all SR links can involve the following: the PL of the receiver at STA1. AP1→STA and PLAP2→STA1 and the PL of the receiver in STA2 AP1→STA2 and PL AP2→STA2 The space loss can be derived from the received power in the STA's trigger frame and the AP TX power in the common field of the trigger frame. STA1 can report its measured space loss (PL) to AP1. AP1→STA1 and PL AP2→STA1 ) and its background noise (NF) STA1 ), and STA2 can report the space loss it measures (PL) to AP2. AP1→STA2 and PL AP2→STA2 ) and its background noise (NF) STA2 AP2 can report all of the above information to AP1, which is the master AP. It is worth noting that an alternative method for estimating space loss for each STA could be to measure the received OBSS beacon power and report it to its associated AP. Neighboring OBSS APs can transmit to the master AP the noise floor of their associated STAs, the AP's TX power, and the received beacon power measured by the STA.

[0069] Figure 16 An exemplary scenario 1600 of stage 1 of DL SR according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Under the proposed scheme according to the invention, each AP can request its associated STA to perform SR measurements (e.g., path loss from its own AP and the OBSS AP) and report the measurements together with the STA's noise floor. For example, in step 1 (involving measurement), two options (e.g., option 1 and option 2) can be adopted. In option 1, each AP can use a measurement request element to request its associated STA to perform measurements from the OBSS AP, and the STA can use a beacon reporting element to report the OBSS AP measurements. The AP beacon TX power is also required to calculate the spatial loss. In option 2, the STA can calculate the spatial loss from the received power measured from the OBSS trigger frame and the AP TX power based on the common field of the OFDMA trigger frame. In step 2 (involving reporting), each STA can report the measured spatial loss and its noise floor to its associated AP.

[0070] Figure 17 An exemplary scenario 1700 of stage 2 of a DL SR according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 18 An exemplary scenario 1800 of an alternative method for deriving space loss according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. (See also...) Figure 17 as well as Figure 18Scenario 1700 and Scenario 1800 may involve AP1, AP2, STA1, and STA2. Under the proposed scheme according to the invention, regarding SR TXOP indications and requests, the TXOP owner (e.g., AP1 as the primary AP) can transmit an indication to notify the selected neighboring AP of the acquired SR TXOP. Neighboring APs can be selected based on reports measured by the target receiving STA from the TXOP owner. The selected neighboring APs can transmit requests to notify the TXOP owner (e.g., AP1) of their intention to perform SR transmissions and to provide information such as P. STA2 (max), PL AP2→STA2 PL AP1→STA2 and NF STA2 Alternatively, the received beacon power and beacon TX power level can be provided. In the proposed scheme, regarding SR allocation, the TXOP owner can allocate SR transmission schedules and the required TX power levels to selected neighboring APs, which can be calculated based on the maximum sum-rate algorithm. Furthermore, regarding SR transmission, the primary AP can transmit a trigger frame, and subsequent APs participating in SR can use SR DL transmission under TX power control.

[0071] Figure 19 An exemplary scenario 1900 of a DL SR according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Under the proposed scheme according to the present invention, SR DL operation can be based on the criterion that the OBSS interference to TX power control at the receiver is less than an acceptable interference threshold:

[0072] OBSS interference ΔTX_PWR1,ΔTX_PWR2,ΔTX_PWR2 <Acceptable interference threshold>

[0073] Here, ΔTX_PWR1, ΔTX_PWR2, and ΔTX_PWR3 represent the TX power adjustment of the DL transmitting STA, and the acceptable interference threshold can be set by configuration. The TXOP owner can select the SR AP based on the interference to the target receiving STA. It is worth noting that the acceptable interference threshold can be determined by the main AP based on the densification level or based on a predetermined value.

[0074] Under the proposed scheme, when implementing the SR optimization algorithm, the main AP may need information on the spatial loss of each SR link. (Reference) Figure 19 Scenario 1900 can involve AP1, AP2, STA1, and STA2. In Scenario 1900, information on the spatial loss of all SR links can involve the following: the PL of the receiver at STA1. AP1→STA1 With PL AP2→STA1 and the PL in the STA2 receiver AP1→STA2 With PL AP2→STA2The space loss can be derived from the received power level in the STA's trigger frame and the AP TX power in the common field of the trigger frame. STA1 can report its measured space loss (PL) to AP1. AP1→STA1 and PL AP2→STA1 ), and STA2 can report the space loss it measures (PL) to AP2. AP1→STA2 and PL AP2→STA2 AP2 can report all the above information to AP1, which is the master AP. It is worth noting that an alternative method for estimating space loss for each STA could be to measure the received OBSS beacon power and report it to its associated AP. Neighboring OBSS APs can transmit the AP's beacon TX power and the received beacon power measured by the STA to the master AP.

[0075] Figure 20 An exemplary scenario 2000 of stage 3 of DL SR according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Under the proposed scheme according to the invention, each AP can request its associated STA to perform SR measurements (e.g., path loss from its own AP and OBSS AP) and report the measurements. For example, in step 1 (involving measurement), two options (e.g., option 1 and option 2) can be adopted. In option 1, each AP can use a measurement request element to request its associated STA to perform OBSS AP measurements, and the STA can use a beacon report element to report the OBSS AP measurements. In option 2, the STA can calculate the spatial loss from the received power measured from the OBSS trigger frame and the AP TX power based on the common field of the OFDMA trigger frame. In step 2 (involving reporting), each STA can report the measured spatial loss to its associated AP.

[0076] Figure 21 An exemplary scenario 2100 of stage 2 of a DL SR according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 22 An exemplary scenario 2200 of an alternative method for deriving space loss according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. (See also...) Figure 21 as well as Figure 22Scenario 2100 and Scenario 2200 may involve AP1, AP2, STA1, and STA2. Under the scheme proposed according to the present invention, regarding SR TXOP indication and request, the TXOP owner (e.g., AP1 as the primary AP) can transmit an indication to notify the selected neighboring AP of the acquired SR TXOP. The neighboring AP can be selected based on a measured report from the target receiving STA of the TXOP owner. The selected neighboring AP (e.g., AP2) can transmit a request to notify the TXOP owner (e.g., AP1) of their intention to perform SR transmission and provide information such as spatial loss to their target receiving STA. Alternatively, the received beacon power and beacon TX power level can be provided. Under the proposed scheme, regarding SR allocation, the TXOP owner can determine the TX power level of all SR links (to achieve optimization criteria) and allocate SR transmission scheduling and the required TX power level to the selected neighboring AP. Furthermore, regarding SR transmission, the primary AP can transmit a trigger frame, and subsequently, the APs participating in SR can perform SR DL transmission using TX power control.

[0077] Figure 23 An exemplary scenario 2300 of a DL SR according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Under the proposed solution according to the present invention, SR UL operation can be based on a standard where the OBSS interference with TX power control at the receiver is less than an acceptable interference threshold, as follows:

[0078] OBSS interference ΔTX_PWR1,ΔTX_PWR2,ΔTX_PWR2 <Acceptable interference threshold>

[0079] Here, ΔTX_PWR1, ΔTX_PWR2, and ΔTX_PWR3 represent the TX power adjustment of the DL transmitting STA, and acceptable interference thresholds can be set by configuration. The TXOP owner can select the SR BSS based on the interference to the target receiving STA. It is worth noting that the acceptable thresholds can be determined by the main AP based on the density level or based on a predetermined value.

[0080] In the proposed scheme, certain operations are required to implement the SR optimization algorithm. (Reference) Figure 23 Scenario 2300 can involve AP1, AP2, STA1, and STA2. In Scenario 2300, STA1 and STA2 can measure the OBSS AP received power. Furthermore, the SRP (SRP1) of AP1 can be provided to the STA in BSS2. It is worth noting that the STA in BSS1 (which is associated with AP1 as the primary AP) will not need to perform power control for the OBSS.

[0081] Figure 24An exemplary scenario 2400 of phase 1 of UL SR according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Under the proposed scheme according to the invention, each AP can request its associated STA to perform SR measurements (e.g., path loss from its own AP and OBSS AP) and report the measurements. For example, each AP can use a measurement request element to request its associated STA to perform OBSS AP measurements, and the STA can use a beacon reporting element to report OBSS AP measurements. Alternatively, the STA can measure the received power from one or more OBSS PPDUs.

[0082] Figure 25 An exemplary scenario 2500 of stage 2 of a UL SR according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. (Reference) Figure 25 Case 2200 may involve AP1, AP2, STA1, and STA2. Under the proposed scheme according to the invention, regarding SR TXOP indication and request, the TXOP owner (e.g., AP1 as the primary AP) can transmit an indication to notify the selected neighboring AP of the acquired SR TXOP. The selected neighboring AP (e.g., AP2) can transmit a request to notify the TXOP owner (e.g., AP1) of their intention to participate in SR transmission. Under the proposed scheme, regarding SR allocation, the TXOP owner can allocate SR transmission schedules and transmit AP1's SRP (SRP1) to the selected neighboring AP. Furthermore, regarding SR transmission, APs participating in SR can transmit trigger frames (with SRP1). Additionally, STAs participating in SR UL transmission can use TX power control to perform UL transmission to avoid exceeding the interference level determined based on SRP (e.g., P'). STA2 <SRP1-R.Power AP1 It is worth noting that when multiple APs participate in SR transmission, the SRP of AP2 (SRP2), the SRP of AP3 (SRP3), and the SRPs of other participating APs can be used to limit common interference.

[0083] Figure 26 An exemplary system 1600 having at least exemplary device 2610 and exemplary device 2620 according to embodiments of the present invention is shown. Each device 2610 and device 2620 can perform various functions to implement the schemes, techniques, processes, and methods described herein regarding multi-AP CSR protocols and algorithms in wireless communication, including various proposed designs, concepts, schemes, systems, and schemes described above, and the processes described below. For example, device 2610 can be implemented in one of APs 120(1) to 120(M), and device 2620 can be implemented in one of APs 120(1) to 120(M) or one of STAs 110(1) to 110(M), or vice versa.

[0084] Each device 2610 and device 2620 may be part of an electronic device, which may be a STA or AP, such as a portable or mobile device, a wearable device, a wireless communication device, or a computing device. When implemented in a STA, each device 2610 and device 2620 may be implemented in a smartphone, smartwatch, personal digital assistant, digital camera, or computing device (such as a tablet, desktop computer, or laptop). Each device 2610 and device 2620 may also be part of a machine-type device, which may be an IoT device, such as a fixed or static device, a home appliance, a wired communication device, or a computing device. For example, each device 2610 and device 2620 may be implemented in a smart thermostat, a smart refrigerator, a smart door lock, a wireless speaker, or a home control center. When implemented in a network device, device 2610 and / or device 2620 may be implemented as a network node, such as an AP in a WLAN.

[0085] In some embodiments, each device 2610 and device 2620 may be implemented as one or more integrated circuit (IC) chips, such as, but not limited to, one or more single-core processors, one or more multi-core processors, one or more Reduced Instruction Set Computing (RISC) processors, or one or more Complex Instruction Set Computing (CISC) processors. In the various embodiments described above, each device 2610 and device 2620 may be implemented as a STA or AP. Each device 2610 and device 2620 may include... Figure 26 At least some components are shown, including, for example, at least processor 2612 and processor 2622. Each device 2610 and device 2620 may further include one or more other components (e.g., internal power supply, display device and / or user interface device) unrelated to the proposed solution of the present invention. Therefore, for simplicity, these components of devices 2610 and device 2620 are not listed. Figure 26 It is shown in the text and is not described below.

[0086] In one aspect, each processor 2612 and processor 2622 is implemented as one or more single-core processors, one or more multi-core processors, one or more RISC processors, or one or more CISC processors. That is, even though similar terms "processor" are used herein to refer to processor 2612 and processor 2622, each processor 2612 and processor 2622 may include multiple processors in some embodiments of the invention and a single processor in other embodiments. On the other hand, each processor 2612 and processor 2622 may be implemented as hardware (optionally, firmware) having electronic components, including, for example, but not limited to, one or more transistors, one or more diodes, one or more capacitors, one or more resistors, one or more inductors, one or more memristors, and / or one or more varistors for implementing a specific purpose according to the invention. In other words, in at least some embodiments, each processor 2612 and processor 2622 is a dedicated machine specifically designed, arranged, and configured to perform specific tasks, including multi-AP CSR protocols and algorithms in wireless communications according to various implementations of the invention.

[0087] In some embodiments, device 2610 also includes a transceiver 2616 coupled to processor 2612. Transceiver 2616 may include a transmitter capable of wirelessly transmitting data and a receiver capable of wirelessly receiving data. In some embodiments, device 2620 may also include a transceiver 2626 coupled to processor 2622. Transceiver 2626 may include a transmitter capable of wirelessly transmitting data and a receiver capable of wirelessly receiving data. It is worth noting that although transceiver 2616 and transceiver 2626 are shown as external devices and are separate from each other, in some embodiments, transceiver 2616 may be a component of processor 2612 as a system-on-a-chip (SoC), and / or transceiver 2626 may be a component of processor 2622 as a SoC.

[0088] In some embodiments, device 2610 may further include a memory 2614 coupled to processor 2612 and capable of being accessed and stored by processor 2612. In some embodiments, device 2620 may further include a memory 2624 coupled to processor 2622 and capable of being accessed and stored by processor 2622. Each memory 2614 and memory 2624 may include a random access memory (RAM), such as dynamic RAM (DRAM), static RAM (SRAM), thyristor RAM (T-RAM), and / or zero-capacitor RAM (Z-RAM). Alternatively, each memory 2614 and memory 2624 may include a read-only memory (ROM), such as a masked ROM, programmable ROM (PROM), erasable programmable ROM (EPROM), and / or electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM). Alternatively, each memory 2614 and memory 2624 may include a non-volatile random access memory (NVRAM), such as fast memory, solid-state memory, ferroelectric RAM (FeRAM), magnetoresistive RAM (MRAM), and / or phase-change memory.

[0089] Each device 2610 and 2620 can be a communication entity that communicates with each other using the scheme proposed according to the present invention. For illustrative purposes and not for limitation, performance descriptions of device 2610 as STA 110 and device 2620 as AP 120 are given below. It is worth noting that although a detailed description of the performance, functionality, and / or technical features of device 2610 is given below, this also applies to device 2620, although for the sake of brevity, it is not merely a detailed description. It is also worth noting that although the example implementation described below is provided in the context of WLAN, the same example can be implemented in other types of networks.

[0090] In the proposed scheme regarding multi-AP CSR protocol and algorithm in wireless communication according to embodiments of the present invention, device 2610 is implemented in a main AP (e.g., AP 120(1)) or as a main AP (e.g., AP 120(M)) or STA (e.g., STA 110(1) to 110(N) of a wireless network (e.g., WLAN) in a network environment 100 according to one or more IEEE 802.11 standards). The processor 2612 of device 2610 can select at least one BSS from one or more adjacent BSSs to form an SRG via transceiver 2616. Furthermore, the processor 2612 of device 2610 can perform CSR in the SRG using a set of OBSS PD parameters via transceiver 2616.

[0091] In some embodiments, when selecting at least one BSS, the processor 2612 may perform certain operations. For example, the processor 2612 may determine the interference level of each of one or more adjacent BSSs. Additionally, the processor 2612 may select one or more of the adjacent BSSs that have the lowest interference level detected by the device.

[0092] In some embodiments, when determining the interference level of each of one or more adjacent BSSs, processor 2612 may detect the power level of one or more signals received from each of the one or more adjacent BSSs. Alternatively, when determining the interference level of each of the one or more adjacent BSSs, processor 2612 may perform other operations. For example, processor 2612 may request one or more STAs associated with the master AP to report the received power level of a line of one or more coordinated APs. Furthermore, in response to the request, processor 2612 may receive a report from each of the one or more STAs associated with the master AP regarding the received power level of a line of one or more coordinated APs. In some embodiments, the report may further include TX power, receiver sensitivity, SRP, or a combination of signals received from a line of one or more coordinated APs.

[0093] In some embodiments, processor 2612 may perform certain operations when executing CSR. For example, processor 2612 may transmit a list of one or more excluded STAs to the coordinating AP associated with each selected at least one BSS, which will be subject to high interference from DL transmissions by the master AP. Furthermore, processor 2612 may select at least one STA not in the list of one or more excluded STAs. Additionally, processor 2612 may perform DL transmissions to the selected at least one STA as part of a joint DL SR transmission combined with the coordinating AP associated with each selected at least one BSS.

[0094] In some embodiments, when performing SCR, processor 2612 may perform certain operations. For example, processor 2612 may notify the coordinating AP associated with each selected at least one BSS that BW is available. Furthermore, processor 2612 may receive a request from the coordinating AP associated with each selected at least one BSS requesting at least a portion of the available BW. Additionally, processor 2612 may transmit an grant of some or all of the available bandwidth to the coordinating AP associated with each selected at least one BSS. Furthermore, processor 2612 may aggregate the coordinating APs associated with each selected at least one BSS to perform joint SR transmission using OFDM.

[0095] In some embodiments, processor 2612 may perform certain operations when performing CSR. For example, processor 2612 may notify the coordinating AP associated with each selected at least one BSS for joint SCR UL transmission with receiver interference cancellation. Furthermore, processor 2612 may transmit UL triggers to at least one STA associated with the master AP. Additionally, while the coordinating AP receives triggered UL transmissions from at least one STA associated with each selected at least one BSS, processor 2612 may receive triggered UL transmissions from at least one STA. In this case, the number of at least one STAs performing triggered UL transmissions in each selected at least one BSS may be limited by the number of antennas of the master AP. In some embodiments, processor 2612 may perform additional operations when performing CSR. For example, processor 2612 may determine the spatial dimension used for receiving UL transmissions and nullify interference from each selected at least one BSS. Furthermore, through CBF, processor 2612 may use a unique orthogonal vector carried in one or more LTFs received from at least one STA to cancel interference from each selected at least one BSS.

[0096] In some embodiments, processor 2612 may further determine a set of OBSS PD parameters associated with high path loss above a threshold to achieve high SR gain within the SRG.

[0097] In the proposed scheme of the present invention concerning a multi-AP CSR protocol and algorithm in wireless communication, device 2610 is implemented in or as a primary AP (e.g., AP 120(1)) of a wireless network, and device 2620 is implemented in or as an auxiliary AP (e.g., AP 120(M)) or STA (e.g., one of STA 110(1) to STA 110(N)) of a wireless network, such as a WLAN in a wireless network 100 according to one or more 802.11 standards. The processor 2612 of device 2610 can receive, via transceiver 2616, a report on the received power level of one or more coordinating APs from each of the one or more STAs associated with the primary AP. Furthermore, based on the report received from each of the one or more STAs, the processor 2612 of device 2610 can select at least one STA from the one or more STAs via transceiver 2616. Additionally, the processor 2612 of device 2610 can select a coordinating AP from the one or more coordinating APs via transceiver 2616. Furthermore, the processor 2612 of the device 2610 can jointly perform CSR transmission with the at least one coordinating AP via transceiver 2616.

[0098] In some embodiments, the report may further include TX power received from the one or more coordinated APs, receiver sensitivity, SRP, or a combination thereof.

[0099] In some embodiments, when selecting a coordinating AP, the processor 2612 may select at least one of the one or more coordinating APs that causes the lowest level of interference from the one or more coordinating APs based on reports received from each of the one or more STAs.

[0100] In some embodiments, during CSR transmission, processor 2612 can perform coordinated UL transmissions by performing certain operations. For example, processor 2612 can transmit a list of one or more excluded STAs to the coordinating AP, which will cause high interference to the master AP. Furthermore, processor 2612 can select at least one STA. Additionally, processor 2612 can transmit UL triggers to at least one STA. Furthermore, while the coordinating AP is receiving UL transmissions from at least one STA associated with the coordinating AP, processor 2612 can receive triggered UL transmissions from at least one STA.

[0101] In some embodiments, during CSR transmission, processor 2612 may further inform the coordinating AP about the primary AP's SR opportunity and SRP. In some embodiments, the acceptable level of interference in the SRP may be adjusted by the primary AP as a trade-off between interference and the throughput of the coordinated BSS associated with the coordinating AP. Furthermore, the primary AP's SRP may be used in TX power control by each triggered STA in the coordinated BSS.

[0102] In some embodiments, the processor 2612 may further measure the interference level of each of the one or more coordinated APs. In this case, when selecting a coordinated AP, the processor 2612 may select one of the one or more coordinated APs having the lowest interference level, which is measured by means of a device in the one or more coordinated APs.

[0103] In some embodiments, processor 2612 may perform certain operations during SCR transmission. For example, processor 2612 may transmit a UL trigger to at least one STA. Furthermore, during a DL transmission performed by the coordinating AP to at least one STA associated with the coordinating AP, processor 2612 may receive a triggered UL transmission from at least one STA.

[0104] In some embodiments, the processor 2612 may further measure the interference level of each of the one or more coordinated APs. In this case, when selecting a coordinated AP, the processor 2612 may select one of the one or more coordinated APs with the lowest interference level measured by the device, or it may select one of the coordinated APs with the lowest interference level based on a corresponding report received from at least one STA. In some embodiments, when performing a CSR transmission, the processor 2612 may perform a DL transmission to at least one STA during the time period during which the coordinated AP sends a UL trigger to at least one STA associated with the coordinated AP and receives UL transmissions from it.

[0105] Figure 27 An exemplary process 2700 according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. Process 2700 may represent one aspect of implementing the various proposed designs, concepts, schemes, systems, and methods described above. More specifically, process 2700 may represent one aspect of proposed concepts and schemes concerning multi-AP CSR protocols and algorithms in wireless communication according to embodiments of the present invention. Process 2700 may include one or more operations, actions, or functions, as shown in one or more blocks 2710 and 2720. Although shown as separate blocks, the various blocks of process 2700 may be split into additional blocks, combined into fewer blocks, or eliminated, depending on the desired implementation. Furthermore, the blocks / sub-blocks of process 2700 may be... Figure 27 The process can be implemented in the order shown or in a different order. Furthermore, one or more blocks / subblocks of process 2700 can be executed repeatedly or iteratively. Process 2700 can be implemented by or in device 2610 and device 2620 and any variant thereof. Process 2700 can begin at block 2710.

[0106] At 2710, process 2700 may involve selecting at least one BSS from one or more adjacent BSSs to form an SRG. Process 2700 may proceed from 2710 to 2720.

[0107] In 2720, process 2720 may involve performing CSR in the SRG using a set of OBSS PD parameters.

[0108] In some embodiments, when selecting at least one BSS, process 2700 may involve performing certain operations. For example, process 2700 may involve determining the interference level of each of the one or more adjacent BSSs. Furthermore, process 2700 may involve selecting at least one of the one or more adjacent BSSs having the lowest interference level, the interference level being detected by means of devices in the one or more adjacent BSSs.

[0109] In some embodiments, when determining the interference level of each of the one or more adjacent BSSs, process 2700 may involve monitoring the power level of one or more signals received from each of the one or more adjacent BSSs. Alternatively, when determining the interference level of each of the one or more adjacent BSSs, process 2700 may involve performing other operations. For example, process 2700 may involve requesting one or more STAs associated with the master AP to report the received power level of a column of one or more coordinated APs. Furthermore, in response to the request, process 2700 may involve receiving a report from each of the one or more STAs associated with the master AP related to the received power level of the column of one or more coordinated APs. In some embodiments, the report may further include TX power received from the column of one or more coordinated APs, receiver sensitivity, SRP, or a combination thereof.

[0110] In some embodiments, when performing a CSR, process 2700 may involve performing certain operations. For example, process 2700 may involve transmitting a list of one or more excluded STAs to the coordinating AP associated with each selected at least one BSS, which will be subject to high interference from DL transmissions by the master AP. Furthermore, process 2700 may involve selecting at least one STA that is not among the one or more excluded STAs in the list. Additionally, process 2700 may involve performing a joint DL SR transmission to select at least one STA as a coordinating AP associated with each selected at least one BSS.

[0111] In some embodiments, when performing a CSR, process 2700 may involve performing certain operations. For example, process 2700 may involve notifying the coordinating AP associated with each selected at least one BSS of available bandwidth. Furthermore, process 2700 may involve receiving a request for at least a portion of available bandwidth from the coordinating AP associated with each of the selected at least one BSS. Furthermore, process 2700 may involve granting some or all of the available bandwidth to the coordinating AP associated with each of the selected at least one BSS. Furthermore, process 2700 may involve performing a joint SR transmission using OFDMA in conjunction with the coordinating AP associated with each selected at least one BSS.

[0112] In some embodiments, when performing CSR, process 2700 may involve performing certain operations. For example, process 2700 may involve notifying one or more coordinating APs associated with each of the at least one selected BSS for a joint CSR UL transmission with receiver interference cancellation. Furthermore, process 2700 may involve transmitting a UL trigger to at least one STA associated with the master AP. Additionally, process 2700 may involve receiving a triggered UL transmission from at least one STA while the coordinating AP receives the triggered UL transmission from at least one STA associated with each of the at least one selected BSS. In this case, the number of at least one STAs performing triggered UL transmissions in each of the at least one selected BSS may be limited by the number of antennas of the master AP. In some embodiments, when performing CSR, process 2700 may involve processor 2612 performing additional operations. For example, process 2700 may involve determining the spatial dimension for receiving the UL transmission and zeroing out interference from each of the at least one selected BSS. Furthermore, by means of CBF, process 2700 may involve using a unique orthogonal vector carried by one or more LTFs received from the at least one STA to cancel out interference from each of the at least one selected BSS.

[0113] In some embodiments, process 2700 may further involve determining a set of OBSS PD parameters associated with high path loss above a threshold to achieve high SR gain within the SRG.

[0114] Figure 28 An exemplary process 2800 according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. Process 2800 may represent aspects of implementing the various proposed designs, concepts, schemes, systems, and methods described above. More specifically, process 2800 may represent an aspect of the proposed concepts and schemes according to the present invention concerning multi-AP CSR protocols and algorithms in wireless communication. Process 2800 may include one or more operations, actions, or functions as shown in one or more blocks 2810, 2820, 2830, and 2840. Although shown as separate blocks, the individual blocks of process 2800 may be split into additional blocks, combined into fewer blocks, or eliminated, depending on the desired implementation. Furthermore, the blocks / sub-blocks of process 2800 may be... Figure 28The process can be executed in the order shown or in a different order. Furthermore, one or more blocks / sub-blocks of process 2800 can be executed repeatedly or iteratively. Process 2800 can be implemented in or by device 2610 and device 2620 and any variant thereof. For illustrative purposes only and without limitation, process 2800 is described in the context of device 2610 being implemented in or as one of STA 110(1) to 110(N) of a wireless network (e.g., STA110(1)) and device 2620 being implemented in or as one of AP 120(1) to 120(M) of a wireless network (e.g., AP 120(1)), such as in a WLAN of a wireless network 100 according to one or more 802.11 standards. Process 2800 can begin in block 2810.

[0115] In process 2800, process 2810 may involve the processor 2612 of device 2610 implemented in the master AP (e.g., AP 120(1)) receiving, via transceiver 2616, a report on the received power level of one or more coordinating APs from each of one or more STAs associated with the master AP. Process 2800 may proceed from 2810 to 2820.

[0116] At 2820, process 2800 may involve the processor 2612 of device 2610 selecting at least one STA from the one or more STAs via transceiver 2616 based on the reports received from each of the one or more STAs. Process 2800 may proceed from 2820 to 2830.

[0117] At 2830, process 2800 may involve the processor 2612 of device 2610 selecting a coordinating AP from the one or more coordinating APs via transceiver 2616. Process 2800 may proceed from 2830 to 2840.

[0118] At 2840, process 2800 may involve the processor 2612 of device 2610 performing CSR transmission in conjunction with at least one coordinating AP via transceiver 2616.

[0119] In some embodiments, the report may further include TX power, receiver sensitivity, SRP, or a combination thereof received from the one or more coordinated APs.

[0120] In some embodiments, when selecting a coordinating AP, process 2800 may involve a processor selecting at least one of the one or more coordinating APs that causes the lowest level of interference among the one or more coordinating APs, based on reports received from each of the one or more STAs, the lowest level of interference being detected by the one or more STAs.

[0121] In some embodiments, during the execution of a CSR transmission, process 2800 may involve processor 2612 performing coordinated UL transmissions by performing certain operations. For example, process 2800 may involve processor 2612 transmitting a list of one or more excluded STAs to the coordinating AP, which would cause high interference to the master AP. Furthermore, process 2800 may involve processor 2612 transmitting a UL trigger to at least one STA. Additionally, while the coordinating AP is receiving UL transmissions from the at least one STA associated with the coordinating AP, process 2800 may involve processor 2612 receiving triggered UL transmissions from the at least one STA.

[0122] In some embodiments, during CSR transmission, process 2800 may further involve processor 2612 informing the coordinating AP about SR opportunities and the SRP of the primary AP. In some embodiments, the acceptable level of interference in the SRP may be adjusted by the primary AP as a trade-off between interference and the throughput of the coordinated BSS associated with the coordinating AP. Furthermore, the SRP of the primary AP may be used in TX power control by each triggered STA in the coordinated BSS.

[0123] In some embodiments, process 2800 may further involve processor 2612 measuring the interference level of each of the one or more coordinated APs. In this case, when selecting the coordinated AP, process 2800 may involve processor 2612 selecting one of the one or more coordinated APs having the lowest interference level measured by the means from the one or more coordinated APs.

[0124] In some embodiments, during the execution of a CSR transmission, process 2800 may involve processor 2612 performing certain operations. For example, process 2800 may involve processor 2612 transmitting a UL trigger to at least one STA. Furthermore, during the coordinating AP's execution of a DL transmission to at least one STA associated with the coordinating AP, process 2800 may involve processor 2612 receiving a triggered UL transmission from the at least one STA.

[0125] In some embodiments, process 2800 may further involve processor 2612 measuring the interference level of each of the one or more coordinated APs. In such a case, when selecting a coordinated AP, process 2800 may involve processor 2612 selecting from the one or more coordinated APs that has the lowest interference level measured by the device, or selecting from the one or more coordinated APs that has the lowest interference level based on a corresponding report received from at least one STA. In some embodiments, during the execution of CSR transmission, while the coordinated AP transmits a UL triggered to at least one STA associated with the coordinated AP and during the receipt of the UL transmission from the at least one STA, process 2800 may involve processor 2612 performing DL transmission to at least one STA.

[0126] The topics described herein sometimes illustrate different components contained in or connected to other different components. It will be understood that the described architectures are merely exemplary, and that other architectures may actually be implemented to achieve the same functionality. Conceptually, any arrangement of components that achieve the same functionality is effectively “associated” to achieve the desired functionality. Therefore, any two components combined in this paper to achieve a particular function can be considered as associated with each other to achieve the desired functionality, regardless of the architecture or intermediate components. Similarly, any two components so associated can be considered as “operably connected” or “operably coupled” to each other to achieve the desired functionality, and any two components that can be so associated can also be considered as “operably coupled” to each other to achieve the desired functionality. Specific examples of operational coupling include, but are not limited to, physically matchable and / or physically interacting components, wirelessly interactable and / or wirelessly interacting components, and logically interacting and / or logically interactable components.

[0127] Furthermore, regarding the use of virtually any plural and / or singular terms in this document, those skilled in the art can convert from plural to singular and / or from singular to plural depending on the context and / or application. For clarity, various singular / plural permutations may be explicitly described herein.

[0128] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that, generally, the terms used herein, especially those used in the appended claims (such as the body of the appended claims), are generally meant as "open-ended" terms. For example, the term "including" should be interpreted as "including but not limited to," the term "having" should be interpreted as "having at least," and the term "includes" should be interpreted as "including but not limited to," etc. Those skilled in the art will further understand that if the formulation of a particular number of the cited claims is intentional, this intention will be explicitly enumerated in the claims, and without such formulation, this intention does not exist. For example, to aid understanding, the following appended claims may include the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more" to introduce the claim formulation. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed as implying that the claim statements introduced by the indefinite articles "a" or "an" limit any particular claim containing such an introduced claim statement to an embodiment containing only one such expression, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrase "one or more" or "at least one" and an indefinite article such as "a" or "an," where "a" and / or "an" should be interpreted as meaning "at least one" or "one or more," the same applies to definite articles introducing claim statements. Furthermore, even if a specific number of introduced claim statements are explicitly listed, those skilled in the art will recognize that such a statement should be interpreted as meaning at least one of the listed numbers; for example, the plain expression "two statements" without further modification means at least two statements, or two or more statements. Furthermore, in the use of conventions such as "at least one A, B, and C, etc.", this construction is generally intended to be understood by those skilled in the art. For example, "the system has at least one A, B, and C" includes, but is not limited to, the system having A alone, having B alone, having C alone, having A and B together, having A and C together, having B and C together, and / or having A, B, and C together. Similarly, in the use of conventions such as "at least one A, B, or C," this construction is generally intended to be understood by those skilled in the art. For example, "the system has at least one A, B, or C" includes, but is not limited to, the system having A alone, having B alone, having C alone, having A and B together, having A and C together, having B and C together, and / or having A, B, and C together. Those skilled in the art will further understand that, in fact, in the description, claims, or illustrations, any separator and / or phrase representing two or more alternative terms will be understood to consider the possibility of including one of the terms, either term, or both terms. For example, the phrase "A or B" will be understood to include the possibility of "A or B" or "A and B."

[0129] As can be understood from the foregoing, various embodiments of the present invention have been described herein for illustrative purposes, and various modifications may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Therefore, the various embodiments described herein are not intended to be limiting, and the true scope and spirit are indicated by the following claims.

Claims

1. A coordinated spatial reuse method, characterized in that, The method includes: Select at least one basic service set from one or more adjacent basic service sets to form a spatial multiplexing group; and Coordinated spatial multiplexing is performed in the spatial multiplexing group using a set of overlapping basic service power detection parameters. The spatial multiplexing that performs the coordination includes: Notify the available bandwidth to the coordinating AP associated with each of the at least one selected basic service set; Receive requests for at least a portion of the available bandwidth from the coordinating AP associated with each of the at least one selected basic service set; Granting some or all of the available bandwidth to the coordinated AP associated with each of the selected at least one basic service set; and The coordinated AP associated with each of the selected at least one basic service set performs joint spatial multiplexing transmission using orthogonal frequency division multiple access.

2. The coordinated spatial reuse method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Selecting the at least one set of basic services includes: Determine the interference level for each of the one or more adjacent basic service sets; Select at least one of the one or more neighboring basic service sets that has the lowest detected interference level from the one or more neighboring basic service sets.

3. The coordinated spatial reuse method as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The interference level that determines each of the one or more adjacent basic service sets includes a power level that monitors one or more signals received from each of the one or more adjacent basic service sets.

4. The coordinated spatial reuse method as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The interference level that determines each of the one or more adjacent basic service sets includes: Request one or more STAs associated with the primary AP to report a list of received power levels of one or more coordinating APs; and In response to the request, a report is received from each of the one or more STAs associated with the primary AP, the report relating to the received power level of the one or more coordinating APs in the column.

5. The coordinated spatial reuse method as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The report further includes transmission power, receiver sensitivity, spatial multiplexing parameters, or combinations thereof received from one or more coordinated APs in the column.

6. The coordinated spatial multiplexing method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Further includes: Determine the set of power detection parameters for the overlapping base service set associated with high path loss above a threshold in order to achieve high spatial multiplexing gain within the spatial multiplexing group.

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