Increasing wireless local area network performance during periodic broadcast with response protocol

Abstract

Methods and systems are disclosed for improving wireless local area network performance during periodic broadcasts with response protocols. Wherein the disclosed method comprises: receiving, by a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) subsystem of a wireless device, a signal associated with a sub-event of a broadcast event from a Wireless Personal Area Network (WPAN) subsystem of the wireless device, where the WLAN subsystem and the WPAN subsystem share a frequency band; determining whether a priority bit associated with the sub-event indicates whether an empty payload is to be transmitted during the sub-event; and in response to determining that the priority bit indicates that an empty payload is to be transmitted during the sub-event, utilizing, by the WLAN subsystem, the frequency band for a predetermined amount of time allocated to the sub-event.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to wireless devices and, more particularly, to improving wireless local area network performance during periodic advertisement with a response protocol. Background Art

[0002] Multiple wireless devices using different communication protocols may share a common wireless medium. For example, including (BT), low power (BLE), wireless personal area network (WPAN) technologies such as infrared and wireless local area network (WLAN) including Wi-Fi TM share a common wireless medium in a specific gigahertz (GHz) band. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Aspects of the present disclosure relate to improving wireless local area network performance during periodic advertisement with a response protocol. Coexistence refers to a situation where a WLAN subsystem coexists with another wireless technology (e.g., a WPAN subsystem) in a shared environment (possibly on a single-chip hardware or at a very close distance). Due to the coexistence of the WLAN subsystem and the WPAN subsystem, when transmitting data on the same channel or overlapping channels in the industrial, scientific, and medical (ISM) band or other bands (e.g., a shared medium), the corresponding radios of the WLAN subsystem and the WPAN subsystem may interfere with each other. Increasing passive isolation can enhance coexistence performance, but it comes at a cost in terms of device size, cost, and power consumption. As the continuous effort to reduce device size, incorporating more passive isolation becomes increasingly challenging. Passive isolation is a method of reducing interference between wireless devices by physically separating the wireless devices or using shielding materials to block the transmission of radio waves. Generally, time division multiplexing (TDM) is implemented on a controller with low passive isolation to manage coexisting WLAN and WPAN subsystems. More specifically, TDM refers to a method of dividing the channels used by both the WLAN subsystem and the WPAN subsystem into time slots and allocating specific time slots to each device (e.g., the WLAN and WPAN subsystems) for transmission. This prevents the WLAN subsystem and the WPAN subsystem from interfering with each other even when they operate on the same radio channel.

[0004] In some cases, the WPAN subsystem can use Periodic Advertisement with Response (PAwR) to establish communication and exchange information between devices. PAwR is an energy-efficient communication technology used in the WPAN subsystem to enable communication between the broadcaster and the observer without the need for continuous beacons. The advertisement event (or advertisement events) can be divided into multiple sub-events. Each sub-event includes an advertisement phase and a response phase. During the advertisement phase, the WPAN subsystem (e.g., the broadcaster) sends an advertisement packet containing a payload. The payload contains all the necessary information for other devices (e.g., the observer) to identify the broadcaster, determine the capabilities of the broadcaster, and establish a communication link at the desired data rate. During the response phase, the WPAN subsystem listens for response packets after sending the advertisement packet. Each sub-event is allocated a predetermined amount of time. This is because PAwR is a time synchronization protocol, meaning that all WPAN subsystems must operate on the same clock to ensure the timing of the desired advertisement and response packets. The specific duration of each sub-event can be defined by the PAwR protocol specification.

[0005] In some cases, the payload of the advertisement packet sent during the advertisement phase of a sub-event can be a new payload, a previously unacknowledged payload, or an empty payload. A new payload can be used to provide new or updated information about the capabilities of the broadcaster. A previously unacknowledged payload can be used to increase the likelihood of other WPAN subsystems receiving the complete payload, especially when the payload contains a large amount of data. An empty payload can be used to announce the presence of the WPAN subsystem to other WPAN subsystems without sending any additional information. During the sub-event in which an advertisement packet containing an empty payload (e.g., an empty payload advertisement packet) is sent during the advertisement phase, the WLAN subsystem can utilize the duration allocated to the response phase because no response packets are expected from other WPAN subsystems. This approach provides some benefits; however, WLAN performance can be further improved. In particular, the advertisement phase during which an empty payload advertisement packet is sent can utilize any period from 44 μs to 800 μs of the shared medium that can be allocated to the WLAN subsystem.

[0006] Aspects and implementations of the present disclosure address these and other limitations of the prior art as follows: determining whether to provide the use of a shared medium to a WPAN subsystem in response to a request from the WPAN subsystem to use the shared medium for a broadcast event. For each sub-event associated with the request to use the shared medium for the broadcast event, the WLAN subsystem determines whether a priority bit that can be modified by the WPAN subsystem indicates that a broadcast packet including an empty payload for the corresponding sub-event will be transmitted during the corresponding sub-event. In response to determining that the priority bit indicates that a broadcast packet including an empty payload for the sub-event will be transmitted during the corresponding sub-event, the WLAN subsystem does not provide the shared medium to the WPAN subsystem, but instead utilizes the shared medium for a predetermined amount of time allocated for the sub-event. Otherwise, the WLAN subsystem provides the shared medium to the WPAN subsystem for a predetermined amount of time allocated for the sub-event.

[0007] Aspects of the present disclosure overcome these and other deficiencies by providing other wireless devices, such as a WLAN subsystem, with more access to a shared medium when the WPAN subsystem operates in PAwR, thereby improving WLAN performance without degrading the performance of the WPAN subsystem. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Aspects and implementations of the present disclosure will be more fully understood from the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings in accordance with various aspects and implementations of the present disclosure. However, the detailed description and the drawings should not be construed as limiting the present disclosure to specific aspects or implementations, but are for illustration and understanding only.

[0009] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary wireless system in accordance with an implementation of the present disclosure.

[0010] Figure 2A and Figure 2B is an exemplary diagram of a Periodic Broadcast with Response (PAWR) event and sub-events in accordance with an implementation of the present disclosure.

[0011] Figure 3A and Figure 3B depict sub-events on a shared medium in accordance with an implementation of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 4 depicts a flowchart of an example method for improving wireless local area network performance during periodic broadcast with a response protocol in accordance with an implementation of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0013] Figure 1is a block diagram of an exemplary wireless device 100 according to an implementation of the present disclosure. The wireless device 100 may include a WLAN subsystem 120, a WPAN subsystem 170, and an interface 160 that facilitates coexistence.

[0014] The WLAN subsystem 120 includes, but is not limited to, radio frequency front-end circuitry (RF) 122, a physical layer (PHY) 124, a media access control layer (MAC) 126, a memory 130, and a processor 140.

[0015] The RF 122 is responsible for processing radio signals involved in WLAN communication. The RF 122 is coupled to one or more antennas of the wireless device 100 that receive and transmit radio signals. The RF 122 may also include, but is not limited to, a low noise amplifier (LNA), a power amplifier (PA), one or more filters, and one or more switches. The LNA is used to amplify the weak signals received by the antenna without significantly increasing the noise. The power amplifier increases the power of the signals to be transmitted through the antenna, ensuring that the signals are strong enough to reach the intended receiver. One or more filters select appropriate frequency bands such as 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz. In the case where a single antenna is used for both transmission and reception, one or more switches alternate between the transmit mode and the receive mode. In some embodiments, the RF 122 may be a single component for multiple frequency bands or multiple components for each frequency band.

[0016] The PHY 124 is configured to transmit and receive radio signals over a frequency band (e.g., 2.4 GHz and / or 5 GHz frequency bands). Additionally, the PHY 124 is responsible for the following: modulating data bits into radio signals that can be transmitted; coordinating channel access with other wireless devices (e.g., the WLAN subsystem or the WPAN subsystem); and detecting / correcting errors that may occur during transmission. The MAC 126 is responsible for managing and maintaining wireless communication such as Wi-Fi TM . In particular, the MAC 126 encapsulates data into frames with specific MAC addresses for transmission and decapsulation; employs protocols to manage media access and minimize data transmission conflicts; implements energy-saving protocols to manage the energy usage of the network interface; and, among other responsibilities, manages the fair bandwidth allocation between all connected devices. The processor 140 is responsible for executing instructions stored in the memory 130. Additionally, the instructions manage communication protocols, process signals, coexistence policies, etc. The memory 130 includes, but is not limited to, one or more volatile memories and / or non-volatile memories for storing instructions, firmware, operational data, etc.

[0017] The WPAN subsystem 170 includes, but is not limited to, an RF 172, a PHY 174, a link controller 176, a memory 178, and a processor 180. The processor 180 is responsible for executing instructions stored in the memory 178. The memory 178 includes, but is not limited to, one or more volatile memories and / or non-volatile memories.

[0018] Similar to the RF 122 of the WLAN subsystem 120, the RF 172 is responsible for processing radio signals involved in WPAN communications (e.g., (BT), BLE, Z-wave TM etc.). In some embodiments, the RF 172 is coupled to an antenna that receives and transmits radio signals among one or more antennas of the wireless device 100. In some embodiments, the RF 172 is coupled to an antenna that is separated and spaced apart from one or more antennas of the wireless device 100 that are coupled to the RF 122 of the WLAN subsystem 120. The RF 122 may also include, but is not limited to, a low noise amplifier (LNA), a power amplifier, one or more filters, and one or more switches. The LNA is used to amplify weak signals received by the antenna without significantly increasing the noise. The power amplifier increases the power of the signal to be transmitted through the antenna, ensuring that the signal is strong enough to reach the intended receiver. One or more filters ensure that the WPAN subsystem 170 operates within its designated frequency band (e.g., the 2.4 GHz band) and minimizes interference from other RF sources. In the case where a single antenna is used for both transmission and reception, one or more switches alternate between the transmit mode and the receive mode.

[0019] The PHY 174 is configured to transmit and receive radio signals over a frequency band (e.g., 2.4 GHz) to enable wireless communication between other WPAN subsystems and / or WLAN subsystems. The PHY 174 uses a variety of modulation schemes to achieve a specific data rate and employs various techniques such as error detection and correction, frequency hopping, and time division duplexing to improve the reliability of communication. The link controller 176 implements the link layer of the WPAN protocol stack and is responsible for transmitting and receiving data packets, managing the physical link, and handling errors. The link controller 176 interacts with a link manager stored in the memory 178 for energy saving and security aspects of implementing the link layer protocol. Thus, the link manager provides information about the link state and instructions for reception.

[0020] The WPAN protocol stack includes a lower layer implemented by various components of the WPAN subsystem and / or device, and a higher layer implemented by the host. The lower layer includes, for example, a physical layer implemented by the PHY 174 and a link layer implemented by the link controller 176. The higher layer includes, for example, a Logical Link Control and Adaptation (L2CAP) layer, an Attribute Protocol (ATT) layer, a Generic Attribute Profile (GATT) layer, a Security Manager Protocol (SMP) layer, and a Generic Access Profile (GAP) layer. The L2CAP layer provides key services for communication between the WPAN subsystem and / or device. The ATT layer provides a standardized method for accessing and manipulating data on the WPAN subsystem and / or device. The GATT layer defines a hierarchy of attributes organized into services and characteristics, thus providing a consistent and organized way to access and manipulate data related to a specific WPAN application. The SMP layer protects the communication between the WPAN subsystem and / or device by establishing secure connections and protecting data from unauthorized access. The GAP layer facilitates basic communication and discovery of the subsystem and / or device by providing basic services, common characteristics, and broadcast and scan capabilities.

[0021] As previously described, PAwR is implemented by the link layer. In particular, the link layer is responsible for sending and receiving periodic broadcast packets and periodic broadcast response packets. The link manager determines when to initiate a periodic broadcast event and sends a command to the link layer. The link layer then generates and sends a periodic broadcast packet including information about the WPAN subsystem. Other WPAN subsystems and / or devices can receive the periodic broadcast packet and respond with a periodic broadcast response packet.

[0022] Interface 160 refers to a communication protocol for facilitating the coexistence of the WLAN subsystem 120 and the WPAN subsystem 170, especially when the WLAN subsystem 120 and the WPAN subsystem 170 operate in an overlapping frequency band (e.g., the 2.4 GHz band), which is referred to herein as the "shared medium". For example, interface 160 can be a 2-wire serial Enhanced Coexistence Interface (SECI) or a 3-wire Generic Coexistence Interface (GCI). Interface 160 serves as a communication channel between the WLAN subsystem 120 and the WPAN subsystem 170, enabling them to coordinate their operations. In particular, it manages the timing, power level, and channel selection of the transmission.

[0023] For example, during use of the shared medium by the WLAN subsystem 120, the WPAN subsystem 170 may assert an RF (e.g., RF172) as active (i.e., assert RF activation (RFA)). Asserting RFA by the WPAN subsystem 170 includes sending, via interface 160, a signal associated with an activation state set to logic high (1). RFA may be asserted by the WPAN subsystem 170 within a predetermined amount of time (e.g., 100 μs) prior to any WPAN activity (e.g., transmission and reception of packets). Once the WPAN activity is complete, RFA may be de-asserted by the WPAN subsystem 170. De-asserting RFA by the WPAN subsystem 170 includes sending, via interface 160, a signal associated with an activation state set to logic low (0). Once the WPAN subsystem 170 de-asserts RFA, the WLAN subsystem 120 may continue to use the shared medium.

[0024] The wireless device 100 may also include a coexistence interface register 162. The coexistence interface (GCI) register 162 refers to one or more registers designed to store information associated with coordinating the operation of the registers via interface 160 (e.g., ongoing activities of the WLAN subsystem 120 and / or the WPAN subsystem 170).

[0025] The memory 130 may include a coexistence management component 135. In some embodiments, the coexistence management component 135 may be stored in any other component of the wireless device 100 or external to the wireless device 100.

[0026] When executed by a processor (e.g., processor 140), the coexistence management component 135 determines whether to send an empty payload broadcast packet during a sub-event in response to the assertion of the RFA of the WPAN subsystem for a sub-event of a broadcast event (i.e., a request to utilize the shared medium). The coexistence management component 135 determines whether to send an empty payload broadcast packet during the sub-event by accessing a register (e.g., priority bit register 164) of the coexistence interface register 162 that contains priority bits. The priority bits in the priority bit register 164 indicate whether an empty payload broadcast packet will be sent during the broadcast phase of the sub-event. The priority bits stored in the priority bit register 164 can be updated using the assertion of the RFA of the WPAN subsystem for each sub-event, thereby indicating whether the broadcast packet associated with the corresponding sub-event is an empty payload. The priority bits in the priority bit register 164 can be set (e.g., set to logic "1") to indicate that an empty payload broadcast packet will be sent during the broadcast phase of the corresponding sub-event (i.e., low priority of the WPAN subsystem 170), or the priority bits in the priority bit register 164 can be cleared (e.g., set to logic "0") to indicate that a new payload or a previously unacknowledged payload will be sent during the broadcast phase of the corresponding sub-event (i.e., high priority of the WPAN subsystem 170).

[0027] A sub-event that is of low priority for the WPAN subsystem 170 can indicate to the WLAN subsystem 120 an opportunity to utilize the shared medium within a predetermined amount of time allocated to the sub-event. Thus, the WLAN subsystem 120 can utilize the shared medium within the predetermined amount of time allocated to the sub-event.

[0028] Figure 2A is an exemplary diagram of a periodic broadcast with response (PAWR) event (e.g., broadcast event 200) according to an implementation of the present disclosure. As previously described, the link layer of the WPAN subsystem 170 initiates the broadcast event 200 and is responsible for sending and receiving periodic broadcast packets and periodic broadcast response packets. The broadcast event 200 can be divided into multiple sub-events (e.g., sub-events 206A to 206Z) for establishing communication and exchanging information between WPAN subsystems. In some embodiments, the broadcast event 200 can occupy a time slot (e.g., interval 204) allocated by time division multiplexing (TDM) of the shared medium. Thus, the sub-events 206A to 206Z occur within the interval 204.

[0029] Referring to Figure 2B this Figure 2B is an exemplary diagram of a sub-event 212, which is similar to Figure 2AEach of the sub - events 206A through 206Z. Sub - event 212 is allocated a predetermined amount of time (e.g., sub - event interval 214). Sub - event 212 includes a broadcast phase and a response phase. The broadcast phase is used to send periodic broadcast packets, and the response phase is used to receive periodic broadcast response packets. The broadcast phase is allocated the first part of the sub - event interval 214 that is generated by the response delay 218. The response phase is allocated the second part of the sub - event interval 214 after the response delay 218.

[0030] During the first part of the sub - event interval 214, the link layer of the broadcast WPAN subsystem sends a broadcast packet 216. As previously described, the broadcast packet 216 includes a new payload, a previously unacknowledged payload, or an empty payload. The link layer of the broadcast WPAN subsystem can use the new payload to provide new or updated information about the capabilities of the broadcaster. The link layer of the broadcast WPAN subsystem can use the previously unacknowledged payload to increase the likelihood that other WPAN subsystems and / or devices receive the complete payload, especially when the payload contains a large amount of data. The link layer of the broadcast WPAN subsystem can use the empty payload to announce the presence of the WPAN subsystem to other WPAN subsystems and / or devices without sending any additional information.

[0031] During the second part of the sub - event interval 214, the link layer of the broadcast WPAN subsystem listens for periodic broadcast response packets (e.g., response packets) (e.g., R 220A through R 220Z) from other WPAN subsystems and / or devices. If the link layer of the broadcast WPAN subsystem receives a response packet, the link layer of the broadcast WPAN subsystem will establish a communication link with the responding WPAN subsystem. Each response packet indicates an interest in communicating with the broadcast WPAN subsystem and can contain additional information such as the capabilities or desired data rate of the responding WPAN subsystem.

[0032] Figure 3A Depicts wireless activity on the shared medium 300A without using Figure 1 The co - existence management component 135 as described above. The shared medium 300A can be divided into multiple time slots (e.g., time slot 302A and time slot 302B).

[0033] During time slot 302A, the link layer of WPAN subsystem 170 may initiate a broadcast event on shared medium 300A. In response to sub-event 304A of the broadcast event, WPAN subsystem 170 asserts RFA. In response to the assertion of RFA, WLAN subsystem 120 may provide shared medium 300A to WPAN subsystem 170 for sub-event 304A. During sub-event 304A, the link layer of WPAN subsystem 170 transmits a broadcast packet with a non-empty payload. WPAN subsystem 170 listens for response packets from other WPAN subsystems. In response to the completion of sub-event 304A, WPAN subsystem 170 de-asserts RFA.

[0034] In response to sub-event 304B of the broadcast event, WPAN subsystem 170 asserts RFA. In response to the assertion of RFA, WLAN subsystem 120 may provide shared medium 300A to WPAN subsystem 170 for sub-event 304B. During sub-event 304B, the link layer of WPAN subsystem 170 transmits a broadcast packet with an empty payload. Given the empty payload where WPAN subsystem 170 does not need to listen for response packets, in response to the completion of sub-event 304B, WPAN subsystem 170 de-asserts RFA. Thus, WLAN subsystem 120 may utilize shared medium 300A within the amount of time (e.g., duration 308A) allocated for listening for response packets from other WPAN subsystems for WPAN communication. However, the amount of time (e.g., duration 306A) allocated for transmitting a broadcast packet with an empty payload may have been utilized by WLAN subsystem 120 for WLAN communication.

[0035] In response to sub-event 304C of the broadcast event, WPAN subsystem 170 asserts RFA. In response to the assertion of RFA, WLAN subsystem 120 may provide shared medium 300A to WPAN subsystem 170 for sub-event 304C. During sub-event 304C, the link layer of WPAN subsystem 170 transmits a broadcast packet with a non-empty payload. The link layer of WPAN subsystem 170 listens for response packets from other WPAN subsystems. In response to the completion of sub-event 304C, WPAN subsystem 170 de-asserts RFA.

[0036] In response to sub - event 304D of a broadcast event, the WPAN subsystem 170 asserts the RFA. In response to the assertion of the RFA, the WLAN subsystem 120 can provide the shared medium 300A to the WPAN subsystem 170 for sub - event 304D. During sub - event 304D, the link layer of the WPAN subsystem 170 transmits a broadcast packet with an empty payload. Given the empty payload for which the WPAN subsystem 170 does not need to listen for response packets, in response to the completion of sub - event 304D, the WPAN subsystem 170 de - asserts the RFA. Thus, the WLAN subsystem 120 can utilize the shared medium 300A within the amount of time (e.g., duration 308B) allocated for listening for response packets from other WPAN subsystems for WPAN communication. However, the amount of time (e.g., duration 306B) allocated for transmitting a broadcast packet with an empty payload may have been used by the WLAN subsystem 120 for WLAN communication.

[0037] During time period 302B, the link layer of the broadcast WPAN subsystem 170 can initiate a subsequent broadcast event on the shared medium 300A. In response to sub - event 304E of the subsequent broadcast event, the WPAN subsystem 170 asserts the RFA. In response to the assertion of the RFA, the WLAN subsystem 120 can provide the shared medium 300A to the WPAN subsystem 170 for sub - event 304E. During sub - event 304E, the link layer of the WPAN subsystem 170 transmits a broadcast packet with an empty payload. Given the empty payload for which the WPAN subsystem 170 does not need to listen for response packets, in response to the completion of sub - event 304C, the WPAN subsystem 170 de - asserts the RFA. Thus, the WLAN subsystem 120 can utilize the shared medium 300A within the amount of time (e.g., duration 308C) allocated for listening for response packets from other WPAN subsystems for WPAN communication. However, the amount of time (e.g., duration 306C) allocated for transmitting a broadcast packet with an empty payload may have been used by the WLAN subsystem 120 for WLAN communication. Additionally, the WLAN subsystem 120 may have utilized the shared medium 300A without interruption.

[0038] In response to sub - event 304F of the subsequent broadcast event, the WPAN subsystem 170 asserts the RFA. In response to the assertion of the RFA, the WLAN subsystem 120 can provide the shared medium 300A to the WPAN subsystem 170 for sub - event 304F. During sub - event 304F, the link layer of the WPAN subsystem 170 transmits a broadcast packet with a non - empty payload. The link layer of the WPAN subsystem 170 listens for response packets from other WPAN subsystems. In response to the completion of sub - event 304F, the WPAN subsystem 170 de - asserts the RFA.

[0039] In response to sub - event 304G of a subsequent broadcast event, the WPAN subsystem 170 asserts the RFA. In response to the assertion of the RFA, the WLAN subsystem 120 can provide the shared medium 300A to the WPAN subsystem 170 for sub - event 304G. During sub - event 304G, the link layer of the WPAN subsystem 170 transmits a broadcast packet with an empty payload. Given the empty payload that does not require the WPAN subsystem 170 to listen for response packets, in response to the completion of sub - event 304G, the WPAN subsystem 170 de - asserts the RFA. Thus, the WLAN subsystem 120 can utilize the shared medium 300A within the amount of time (e.g., duration 308D) allocated for listening for response packets from other WPAN subsystems for WPAN communication. However, the amount of time (e.g., duration 306D) allocated for transmitting a broadcast packet with an empty payload may have been used by the WLAN subsystem 120 for WLAN communication.

[0040] In response to sub - event 304H of a subsequent broadcast event, the WPAN subsystem 170 asserts the RFA. In response to the assertion of the RFA, the WLAN subsystem 120 can provide the shared medium 300A to the WPAN subsystem 170 for sub - event 304H. During sub - event 304H, the link layer of the WPAN subsystem 170 transmits a broadcast packet with a non - empty payload. The link layer of the WPAN subsystem 170 listens for response packets from other WPAN subsystems. In response to the completion of sub - event 304H, the WPAN subsystem 170 de - asserts the RFA. The WLAN subsystem 120 can utilize the remaining portion of time slot 302B for WLAN communication.

[0041] Figure 3B Depicts wireless activities on a shared medium 300B similar to the shared medium 300A in the case of using Figure 1 the co - existence management component 135 in conjunction with Figure 3A The shared medium 300B can be divided into multiple time slots (e.g., time slots 314A to 314D).

[0042] During time slot 316A, the link layer of the WPAN subsystem 170 can initiate a broadcast event on the shared medium 300B. In response to sub - event 320A of the broadcast event, the WPAN subsystem 170 asserts the RFA318A. Additionally, the WPAN subsystem 170 updates the priority bits in the priority bit register 164 of the co - existence interface register 162 based on the broadcast packet with a non - empty payload to be transmitted during sub - event 320A. Specifically, the priority bits in the priority bit register 164 are cleared.

[0043] The coexistence management component 135 can access the priority bit register 164 updated by the WPAN subsystem 170 to determine whether the priority bit indicates that the sub-event 320A will send a broadcast packet with an empty payload. In response to the assertion of the RFA and the priority bit indicating that the sub-event 320A will send a broadcast packet with a non-empty payload, the WLAN subsystem 120 can provide the shared medium 300B to the WPAN subsystem 170 for the sub-event 320A. During the sub-event 320A, the link layer of the WPAN subsystem 170 sends a broadcast packet with a non-empty payload. The WPAN subsystem 170 listens for response packets from other WPAN subsystems. In response to the completion of the sub-event 320A, the WPAN subsystem 170 de-asserts the RFA 318A.

[0044] In response to the sub-event 320B of the broadcast event, the WPAN subsystem 170 asserts the RFA 318B. Additionally, the WPAN subsystem 170 updates the priority bit in the priority bit register 164 based on the broadcast packet with an empty payload to be sent during the sub-event 320B. Specifically, the priority bit in the priority bit register 164 is set.

[0045] The coexistence management component 135 can access the priority bit register 164 updated by the WPAN subsystem 170 to determine whether the priority bit indicates that the sub-event 320B will send a broadcast packet with an empty payload. In response to the assertion of the RFA and the priority bit indicating that the sub-event 320B will send a broadcast packet with an empty payload, the coexistence management component 135 causes the WLAN subsystem 120 not to provide the shared medium 300B to the WPAN subsystem 170 for the sub-event 320B. Thus, the WLAN subsystem 170 utilizes the shared medium 300B within the time amount (e.g., duration 322A) allocated to the sub-event 320B (i.e., the time amount for sending the broadcast packet and listening for response packets).

[0046] In response to the sub-event 320C of the broadcast event, the WPAN subsystem 170 asserts the RFA 318C. Additionally, the WPAN subsystem 170 updates the priority bit in the priority bit register 164 of the coexistence interface register 162 based on the broadcast packet with a non-empty payload to be sent during the sub-event 320C. Specifically, the priority bit in the priority bit register 164 is cleared.

[0047] The coexistence management component 135 can access the priority bit register 164 updated by the WPAN subsystem 170 to determine whether the priority bit indicates that the sub-event 320C will send a broadcast packet with a non-empty payload. In response to the assertion of the RFA and the priority bit indicating that the sub-event 320C will send a broadcast packet with a non-empty payload, the WLAN subsystem 120 can provide the shared medium 300B to the WPAN subsystem 170 for the sub-event 320C. During the sub-event 320C, the link layer of the WPAN subsystem 170 sends a broadcast packet with a non-empty payload. The WPAN subsystem 170 listens for response packets from other WPAN subsystems. In response to the completion of the sub-event 320C, the WPAN subsystem 170 de-asserts the RFA 318C.

[0048] In response to the sub-event 320D of the broadcast event, the WPAN subsystem 170 asserts the RFA 318D. Additionally, the WPAN subsystem 170 updates the priority bit in the priority bit register 164 based on the broadcast packet with an empty payload to be sent during the sub-event 320D. Specifically, the priority bit in the priority bit register 164 is set.

[0049] The coexistence management component 135 can access the priority bit register 164 updated by the WPAN subsystem 170 to determine whether the priority bit indicates that the sub-event 320D will send a broadcast packet with an empty payload. In response to the assertion of the RFA and the priority bit indicating that the sub-event 320D will send a broadcast packet with an empty payload, the coexistence management component 135 causes the WLAN subsystem 120 not to provide the shared medium 300B to the WPAN subsystem 170 for the sub-event 320D. Thus, the WLAN subsystem 120 utilizes the shared medium 300B within the time amount (e.g., duration 322B) allocated to the sub-event 320D (i.e., the time amount for sending the broadcast packet and listening for response packets).

[0050] During the time slot 316B, the link layer of the WPAN subsystem 170 can initiate another broadcast event on the shared medium 300B. In response to the sub-event 320E of the another broadcast event, the WPAN subsystem 170 asserts the RFA 318E. Additionally, the WPAN subsystem 170 updates the priority bit in the priority bit register 164 based on the broadcast packet with an empty payload to be sent during the sub-event 320E. Specifically, the priority bit in the priority bit register 164 is set.

[0051] The coexistence management component 135 can access the priority bit register 164 updated by the WPAN subsystem 170 to determine whether the priority bit indicates that the sub-event 320E will send a broadcast packet with an empty payload. In response to the assertion of the RFA and the priority bit indicating that the sub-event 320E will send a broadcast packet with an empty payload, the coexistence management component 135 causes the WLAN subsystem 120 not to provide the shared medium 300B to the WPAN subsystem 170 for the sub-event 320E. Therefore, the WLAN subsystem 120 utilizes the shared medium 300B within the time amount (e.g., duration 322C) allocated to the sub-event 320E (i.e., the time amount for sending the broadcast packet and listening for the response packet). Additionally, since the WPAN subsystem 170 does not need to utilize the shared medium 300B for the sub-events 320D and 320E, the WLAN subsystem 120 can utilize the shared medium 300B continuously during the durations 322B and 322C.

[0052] In response to the sub-event 320F of another broadcast event, the WPAN subsystem 170 asserts the RFA 318F. Additionally, the WPAN subsystem 170 updates the priority bit in the priority bit register 164 of the coexistence interface register 162 based on the broadcast packet with a non-empty payload to be sent during the sub-event 320F. Specifically, the priority bit in the priority bit register 164 is cleared.

[0053] The coexistence management component 135 can access the priority bit register 164 updated by the WPAN subsystem 170 to determine whether the priority bit indicates that the sub-event 320F will send a broadcast packet with an empty payload. In response to the assertion of the RFA and the priority bit indicating that the sub-event 320F will send a broadcast packet with a non-empty payload, the WLAN subsystem 120 can provide the shared medium 300B to the WPAN subsystem 170 for the sub-event 320F. During the sub-event 320F, the link layer of the WPAN subsystem 170 sends a broadcast packet with a non-empty payload. The WPAN subsystem 170 listens for response packets from other WPAN subsystems. In response to the completion of the sub-event 320F, the WPAN subsystem 170 de-asserts the RFA 318F.

[0054] In response to the sub-event 320G of another broadcast event, the WPAN subsystem 170 asserts the RFA 318G. Additionally, the WPAN subsystem 170 updates the priority bit in the priority bit register 164 based on the broadcast packet with an empty payload to be sent during the sub-event 320G. Specifically, the priority bit in the priority bit register 164 is set.

[0055] The coexistence management component 135 can access the priority bit register 164 updated by the WPAN subsystem 170 to determine whether the priority bit indicates that sub-event 320G will send a broadcast packet with an empty payload. In response to the assertion of the RFA and the priority bit indicating that sub-event 320G will send a broadcast packet with an empty payload, the coexistence management component 135 causes the WLAN subsystem 120 not to provide the shared medium 300B to the WPAN subsystem 170 for sub-event 320G. Accordingly, the WLAN subsystem 170 utilizes the shared medium 300B within the time amount (e.g., duration 322D) allocated to sub-event 320G (i.e., the time amount for sending the broadcast packet and listening for a response packet).

[0056] In response to sub-event 320H of another broadcast event, the WPAN subsystem 170 asserts the RFA 318H. Additionally, the WPAN subsystem 170 updates the priority bit in the priority bit register 164 of the coexistence interface register 162 based on the broadcast packet with a non-empty payload to be sent during sub-event 320H. In particular, the priority bit in the priority bit register 164 is cleared.

[0057] The coexistence management component 135 can access the priority bit register 164 updated by the WPAN subsystem 170 to determine whether the priority bit indicates that sub-event 320H will send a broadcast packet with an empty payload. In response to the assertion of the RFA and the priority bit indicating that sub-event 320H will send a broadcast packet with a non-empty payload, the WLAN subsystem 120 can provide the shared medium 300B to the WPAN subsystem 170 for sub-event 320H. During sub-event 320H, the link layer of the WPAN subsystem 170 sends a broadcast packet with a non-empty payload. The WPAN subsystem 170 listens for response packets from other WPAN subsystems. In response to the completion of sub-event 320H, the WPAN subsystem 170 de-asserts the RFA 318H. Additionally, the WLAN subsystem 120 can utilize the remainder of the time slot 316B (e.g., duration 322E) for WLAN communication.

[0058] Figure 4 A flowchart of an example method 400 for improving the performance of a wireless local area network during periodic broadcasts with a response protocol in accordance with an implementation of the present disclosure is depicted. Method 400 can be executed by processing logic, which can include hardware (circuitry, dedicated logic, etc.), software (e.g., instructions running on a processing device), or a combination thereof. In one implementation, some or all of the operations of method 400 can be performed by Figure 1 one or more components of the WLAN subsystem 120. In some embodiments, some or all of the operations of method 400 can be performed by as described aboveFigure 1 is performed by the coexistence management component 135.

[0059] At block 410, in response to an assertion of RF activation by the WPAN subsystem, the processing logic accesses the priority bit register. As previously described, the priority bit register is a register in the coexistence interface register of a wireless device that includes both the WLAN subsystem and the WPAN subsystem. In response to the initiation of a broadcast event, the WPAN subsystem asserts RFA for each sub-event in the broadcast event. A broadcast event can be divided into multiple sub-events. During the assertion of RFA, the WPAN subsystem updates the priority bits stored in the priority bit register, which indicate whether the broadcast packet associated with the corresponding sub-event has an empty payload.

[0060] At block 420, the processing logic determines whether to send an empty payload during a sub-event based on the priority bits in the priority bit register. As previously described, the priority bits in the priority bit register can be set (e.g., set to logic "1") to indicate that an empty payload broadcast packet will be sent during the broadcast phase of a sub-event (i.e., low priority of the WPAN subsystem), or the priority bits in the priority bit register can be cleared (e.g., set to logic "0") to indicate that a new payload or a previously unacknowledged payload will be sent during the broadcast phase of a sub-event (i.e., high priority of the WPAN subsystem).

[0061] In response to determining that the priority bits are set to indicate that an empty payload will be sent during a sub-event, at block 430, the processing logic uses the shared medium for WLAN communication within a predetermined time (or sub-event interval) allocated to the sub-event. The shared medium can be a frequency band such as the Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) band. As previously described, the processing logic does not provide the shared medium to the WPAN subsystem and maintains access to the shared medium for WLAN communication (i.e., does not provide the shared medium to the WPAN subsystem for the sub-event). Thus, the WLAN subsystem uses the shared medium within the amount of time allocated to the sub-event.

[0062] In response to determining that the priority bits are cleared to indicate that an empty payload will not be sent during a sub-event (i.e., a non-empty payload will be sent), at block 440, the processing logic provides the shared medium to the WPAN subsystem within a predetermined time (or sub-event interval) allocated to the sub-event. Thus, as previously described, the WPAN subsystem sends a broadcast packet with a non-empty payload during the broadcast phase. The WPAN subsystem listens for response packets from other WPAN subsystems during the response phase. In response to the completion of a sub-event, the WPAN subsystem de-asserts RFA. In response to the de-assertion of RFA, the processing logic can start using the shared medium for WLAN communication.

[0063] References throughout this specification to "one implementation", "an implementation", "implementations" or "implementations" mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the implementation(s) and / or implementation(s) is included in at least one implementation and / or implementation. Thus, the phrases "in one implementation" or "in an implementation" that appear in different places throughout this specification may or may not refer to the same implementation, depending on the context. Additionally, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more implementations.

[0064] To the extent that the terms "includes", "including", "has", "contains", their variants, and other similar words are used in the detailed description or claims, these terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term "comprising" as an open transitional word, without excluding any additional or other elements.

[0065] As used in this application, the terms "component", "module", "system", etc. generally refer to computer-related entities, i.e., hardware (e.g., circuitry), software, combinations of hardware and software, or entities associated with an operating machine having one or more specific functions. For example, a component can be, but is not limited to, a process running on a processor (e.g., a digital signal processor), a processor, an object, an executable, a thread of execution, a program, and / or a computer. By way of illustration, both a controller and an application running on the controller can be components. One or more components can reside within a process and / or thread of execution, and a component can be located on one computer and / or distributed between two or more computers. Additionally, "device" can appear in the form of: specially designed hardware; general-purpose hardware specialized by software executing thereon to enable the hardware to perform specific functions (e.g., generating points of interest and / or descriptors); software on a computer-readable medium; or combinations thereof.

[0066] The foregoing systems, circuits, modules, etc. have been described with respect to the interactions between several components and / or blocks. It will be appreciated that such systems, circuits, components, blocks, etc. may include those components or designated sub-components, some of the designated components or sub-components, and / or additional components, as well as various arrangements and combinations in accordance with the foregoing. A sub-component may also be implemented as a component communicatively coupled to other components rather than being included within a parent component (hierarchically). Additionally, it should be noted that one or more components may be combined into a single component providing an aggregated function or divided into several separate sub-components, and any one or more intermediate layers such as a management layer may be provided to communicatively couple to such sub-components in order to provide an integrated function. Any component described herein may also interact with one or more other components not specifically described herein but known to those skilled in the art.

[0067] Furthermore, the words "example" or "exemplary" are used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any aspect or design described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs. Rather, the use of the words "example" or "exemplary" is intended to present concepts in a concrete manner. As used in this application, the term "or" is intended to mean an inclusive "or" rather than an exclusive "or". That is, unless otherwise specified or clear from the context, "X employs A or B" is intended to mean any natural inclusive arrangement. That is, if X employs A; X employs B; or X employs both A and B, then "X employs A or B" is satisfied in any of the foregoing instances. Additionally, unless otherwise specified or clearly indicated to the contrary by the context to be in the singular form, the articles "a" and "an" as used in this application and the appended claims are generally to be construed to mean "one or more".

[0068] Finally, the implementations described herein include a collection of data describing a user and / or user activities. In one implementation, such data is collected only when the user provides consent to collect the data. In some implementations, the user is prompted to explicitly allow data collection. Additionally, the user may opt in or opt out of participating in such data collection activities. In one implementation, the collected data is anonymized before any analysis is performed to obtain any statistical patterns such that the identity of the user cannot be determined from the collected data.

Claims

1. A method, comprising: Receiving, by a wireless local area network (WLAN) subsystem of a wireless device, a signal associated with a sub - event of a broadcast event from a wireless personal area network (WPAN) subsystem of the wireless device, wherein the WLAN subsystem and the WPAN subsystem share a frequency band; Determining whether a priority bit associated with the sub - event indicates whether an empty payload will be sent during the sub - event; and In response to determining that the priority bit indicates that an empty payload will be sent during the sub - event, utilizing the frequency band by the WLAN subsystem within a predetermined amount of time allocated to the sub - event.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein, Determining that the priority bit indicates that an empty payload will be sent during the sub - event includes: Accessing a priority bit register of the wireless device; and Determining whether the priority bit stored in the priority bit register is set.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein Determining that the priority bit indicates that an empty payload will not be sent during the sub - event includes: Accessing a priority bit register of the wireless device; and Determining whether the priority bit stored in the priority bit register is cleared.

4. The method according to claim 1, wherein The sub - event is allocated the predetermined amount of time for a broadcast phase of the sub - event and a response phase of the sub - event.

5. The method according to claim 4, wherein, During the broadcast phase, the sub - event sends one of a new payload, a previously unacknowledged payload, or an empty payload.

6. The method according to claim 1, wherein The signal is an assertion that the radio frequency of the WPAN subsystem is active, for indicating a request to utilize the frequency band.

7. The method according to claim 6, further comprising: In response to determining that the priority bit indicates that an empty payload will not be sent during the sub - event, providing the frequency band to the WPAN subsystem within a predetermined amount of time allocated to the sub - event.

8. A wireless device, comprising: A wireless local area network (WLAN) subsystem, which includes a processor, and A wireless personal area network (WPAN) subsystem, which operates on a frequency band shared with the WLAN subsystem, wherein the processor of the WLAN subsystem will perform operations including the following: Receiving a signal associated with a sub - event of a broadcast event from the WPAN subsystem; Determining whether a priority bit associated with the sub - event indicates whether an empty payload will be sent during the sub - event; and In response to determining that the priority bit indicates that an empty payload will be sent during the sub - event, utilizing the frequency band by the WLAN subsystem within a predetermined amount of time allocated to the sub - event.

9. The wireless device according to claim 8, wherein, Determining that the priority bit indicates that an empty payload will be sent during the sub - event includes: Accessing a priority bit register of the wireless device; and Determining whether the priority bit stored in the priority bit register is set.

10. The wireless device according to claim 8, wherein, Determining that the priority bit indicates that an empty payload will not be sent during the sub - event includes: Accessing a priority bit register of the wireless device; and Determining whether the priority bit stored in the priority bit register is cleared.

11. The wireless device according to claim 10, wherein, The sub - event is allocated the predetermined amount of time for a broadcast phase of the sub - event and a response phase of the sub - event.

12. The wireless device according to claim 11, wherein, During the broadcast phase, the sub-event transmits one of a new payload, a previously unacknowledged payload, or an empty payload.

13. The wireless device according to claim 8, wherein, The signal is an assertion that the radio frequency of the WPAN subsystem is active, indicating a request to utilize the frequency band.

14. The wireless device according to claim 8, wherein, The processor of the WPAN subsystem will perform operations that further include the following: In response to determining that the priority bit indicates that an empty payload will not be transmitted during the sub-event, provide the frequency band to the WPAN subsystem for a predetermined amount of time allocated to the sub-event.

15. A wireless local area network (WLAN) subsystem of a wireless device, comprising: A processor; And A memory that includes a coexistence management component, wherein the coexistence management component, when executed by the processor, will perform operations that include the following: Receive a signal associated with a sub-event of a broadcast event from a wireless personal area network (WPAN) subsystem operating on a frequency band shared with the WLAN subsystem; Determine whether a priority bit associated with the sub-event indicates whether an empty payload will be transmitted during the sub-event; and In response to determining that the priority bit indicates that an empty payload will be transmitted during the sub-event, utilize the frequency band by the WLAN subsystem for a predetermined amount of time allocated to the sub-event.

16. The WLAN subsystem according to claim 15, wherein, Determining that the priority bit indicates that an empty payload will be transmitted during the sub-event includes: Accessing a priority bit register of the wireless device; and Determining whether the priority bit stored in the priority bit register is set.

17. The WLAN subsystem according to claim 15, wherein, Determining that the priority bit indicates that an empty payload will not be transmitted during the sub-event includes: Accessing a priority bit register of the wireless device; and Determining whether the priority bit stored in the priority bit register is cleared.

18. The WLAN subsystem according to claim 15, wherein, The sub-event is allocated the predetermined amount of time for the broadcast phase of the sub-event and the response phase of the sub-event, and wherein, during the broadcast phase, the sub-event transmits one of a new payload, a previously unacknowledged payload, or an empty payload.

19. The WLAN subsystem according to claim 15, wherein, The signal is an assertion that the radio frequency of the WPAN subsystem is active, indicating a request to utilize the frequency band.

20. The WLAN subsystem according to claim 19, wherein, The coexistence management component, when executed by the processor, will perform operations that further include the following: In response to determining that the priority bit indicates that an empty payload will not be transmitted during the sub-event, provide the frequency band to the WPAN subsystem for a predetermined amount of time allocated to the sub-event.

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