Link adaptation with fast feedback

Abstract

The invention relates to link adaptation with fast feedback. The invention relates to a method for link adaptation with fast feedback in a wireless local area network. A wireless device may receive a physical protocol data unit (PPDU), for example from another wireless device, such as from an access point. The wireless device may transmit a block acknowledgement (BA) frame including fast feedback information to the other wireless device. The BA frame including fast feedback information may be transmitted in an unsolicited or solicited manner, and / or may be transmitted after negotiation with the other wireless device to include fast feedback information in the BA frame. The fast feedback information may include at least a per-stream effective signal to interference plus noise ratio (SINR) or an SINR margin.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] This application relates to wireless communication, including techniques and apparatus for link adaptation with fast feedback in a wireless local area network architecture. BACKGROUND

[0002] Wireless communication systems are ubiquitous. In addition, wireless communication technology has evolved from voice-only communications to also include transmission of data, such as Internet and multimedia content.

[0003] A mobile electronic device or station (STA) or user equipment device (UE) can take the form of a smartphone or tablet computer that a user typically carries. One aspect of wireless communication that can generally be performed by a mobile device can include wireless networking, e.g., over a wireless local area network (WLAN), which can include devices operating according to one or more of the IEEE 802.11 family of standards. In a wireless local area network, certain traffic can be delayed while other communications in the network are being performed. This can potentially result in performance degradation of traffic for which low latency is important, at least in some cases. Thus, improvements in this area are desirable. SUMMARY

[0004] Embodiments of systems, apparatuses, and methods, among other things, for devices to utilize fast feedback for link adaptation in a wireless local area network architecture are presented herein.

[0005] A wireless device can include one or more antennas, one or more radios operably coupled to the one or more antennas, and a processor operably coupled to the one or more radios. The wireless device can be configured to establish a connection with an access point over a wireless local area network (WLAN) on one or more wireless links, or can be an access point configured to establish a connection with one or more other wireless devices over a WLAN on one or more wireless links. In some embodiments, the wireless device can operate in each of the multiple wireless links using a respective radio of the one or more radios.

[0006] For example, in some embodiments, a wireless device can receive a physical protocol data unit (PPDU), e.g., from another wireless device, such as from an access point. The wireless device can send a block acknowledgement (BA) frame including fast feedback information to the other wireless device. The BA frame including fast feedback information can be sent unsolicited or solicited, and / or can be sent after negotiation with the other wireless device to include fast feedback information in the BA frame. The fast feedback information can include at least a per-flow effective signal to interference plus noise ratio (SINR) or SINR margin.

[0007] The techniques described herein can be implemented in and / or used with a number of different types of devices, including but not limited to cellular phones, tablet computers, accessory and / or wearable computing devices, portable media players, base stations, access points, and other network infrastructure equipment, servers, unmanned aerial vehicles, unmanned aerial controllers, automobiles and / or motor vehicles, and any of various other computing devices.

[0008] This Summary is intended to provide a brief overview of some of the subject matter described in this document. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the above-described features are merely examples and should not be construed to narrow the scope or spirit of the subject matter described herein. Other features, aspects, and advantages of the subject matter described herein will become apparent from the following DETAILED DESCRIPTION, Figures, and Claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0009] A better understanding of the present subject matter will be obtained through consideration of the following detailed description in conjunction with the drawings.

[0010] Figure 1 An example wireless communication system including a wireless device is illustrated in accordance with some embodiments.

[0011] Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example wireless device in accordance with some embodiments.

[0012] Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example network element or access point in accordance with some embodiments.

[0013] Figure 4 is a block diagram illustrating an example modem or baseband processor in accordance with some embodiments.

[0014] Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 An example of signaling to support rate adaptation with fast feedback is illustrated in accordance with some embodiments.

[0015] Figure 10A An example of an ADDBA request frame is illustrated in accordance with some embodiments.

[0016] Figure 10B An example of an ADDBA response frame is illustrated in accordance with some embodiments.

[0017] Figure 11 and Figure 12is a flowchart illustrating an example method for performing link adaptation with fast feedback in a wireless local area network, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0018] While features described herein are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and are herein described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the drawings and detailed description thereto are not intended to be limiting in any respect, rather are intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the subject matter as defined by the appended claims. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] Terminology

[0020] The following are definitions of terms used in the present disclosure:

[0021] Memory medium— any of various types of memory devices or storage devices. The term "memory medium" is intended to include any and all RAM, ROM, EEPROM, EDO RAM, DDR RAM, Rambus RAM, etc., solid state memory devices, and / or any type of storage device such as magnetic cassettes, tapes, disks, and / or optical storage. The term "memory medium" can include two or more memory media that reside in different locations, e.g., in different computer systems that are connected over a network. The memory medium can store program instructions (e.g., embodied in a computer program) that can be executed by one or more processors.

[0022] Carrier medium— a memory medium as described above, and a physical transmission medium, such as a bus, network, and / or other physical transmission medium that conveys signals such as electrical, electromagnetic, or digital signals.

[0023] Computer system— any of various types of computing or processing systems, including a personal computer system (PC), a server computer system, a wearable computer, a network appliance, an Internet appliance, a smart phone, a tablet computer, a television system, a grid computing system, or other device or combination of devices. In general, the term "computer system" can be broadly defined to encompass any device (or combination of devices) having at least one processor that executes instructions from a memory medium.

[0024] User equipment (UE) (or "UE device")— any of various types of computer systems or devices that are mobile or portable and that performs wireless communications. Examples of UE devices include mobile telephones or smart phones, portable computers, tablets, and laptop computers. TM TM ​smartphones, tablets, portable gaming devices, laptops, wearable devices (e.g., smartwatches, smartglasses, smartgoggles, head-mounted display devices, etc.), portable Internet devices, music players, data storage devices, or other hand-held devices, automobiles and / or motor vehicles, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) (e.g., drones), UAV controllers (UACs), etc. Generally, the term “UE” or “UE device” can be broadly defined to encompass any electronic, computing, and / or telecommunications device (or combination of devices) capable of sending and / or receiving wireless communications.

[0025] Wireless device or station (STA)—any of various types of computer systems or devices that perform wireless communication. A wireless device can be portable (or mobile) or can be stationary or fixed at a location. The terms “station” and “STA” are similarly used. A UE is one example of a wireless device.

[0026] Communication device—any of various types of computer systems or devices that perform communications—where the communications can be wired or wireless. A communication device can be portable (or mobile) or can be stationary or fixed at a location. A wireless device is one example of a communication device. A UE is another example of a communication device.

[0027] Base station or access point (AP)—the term “base station” has all of its ordinary meanings and includes at least a wireless communication station installed at a fixed location and used to communicate as part of a wireless communication system. The term “access point” (or “AP”) is typically associated with Wi-Fi based communications and is used similarly.

[0028] Processing element (or processor)—refers to various elements or combinations of elements that can perform a function of a device (e.g., a communication device or a network infrastructure device). Processing elements can include, for example: processor(s) and associated memory, circuitry such as an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), portions or circuits of individual processor cores, entire processor cores, processor arrays, programmable hardware devices such as FPGAs (field programmable gate arrays), and / or larger portions of systems that include multiple processors, as well as any combinations thereof.

[0029] IEEE 802.11—refers to technologies based on IEEE 802.11 wireless standards, such as 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11-2012, 802.11ac, 802.11ad, 802.11ax, 802.11ay, 802.11be, and / or other IEEE 802.11 standards. IEEE 802.11 technologies can also be referred to as “Wi-Fi” or “wireless local area network (WLAN)” technologies.

[0030] Configured to— various components can be described as being “configured to” perform one or more tasks. In this context, “configured to” is a broad recitation generally meant to encompass a broad range of structures that have the “structure” to perform an operation during operation. Thus, even if a component is not currently on or performing a task, it can be configured to perform the task (e.g., a set of electrical conductors can be configured to electrically connect one module to another module, even when the two modules are not connected). In some contexts, “configured to” can be a broad recitation generally meant to encompass a broad range of structures that have the “circuitry” to perform an operation during operation. Thus, even if a component is not currently on or performing a task, it can be configured to perform the task. Generally, the circuitry forming the structure corresponding to “configured to” can include hardware circuitry.

[0031] For ease of description, various components can be described as performing one or more tasks. Such descriptions should be interpreted as including the phrase “configured to.” A component recited as being configured to perform one or more tasks is expressly intended to invoke an interpretation under 35 U.S.C. § 112(f).

[0032] Figures 1-2 — wireless communication system

[0033] Figure 1 An example of a wireless communication system is illustrated. Note that Figure 1 represents one possibility of many, and features of the disclosure can be implemented in any of various systems as desired. For example, the scenarios described herein can be implemented in any type of wireless device. The wireless communication system described below is one example.

[0034] As shown, the example wireless communication system includes an access point (AP) 102, which communicates with one or more wireless devices 106A, 106B, etc. over a transmission medium. The wireless devices 106A and 106B can be user devices, such as stations (STAs), non-AP STAs, UEs, or other WLAN devices.

[0035] A STA 106 can be a device with wireless network connectivity, such as a mobile phone, a handheld device, a wearable device (e.g., such as a smart watch, smart glasses, and / or a head-mounted display device), a computer or tablet, an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), an unmanned aerial controller (UAC), a car, or almost any other type of wireless device. A STA 106 can include a processor (processing element) configured to execute program instructions stored in memory. The STA 106 can perform any of the methods described herein by executing one or more of such stored instructions. Alternatively, or in addition, the STA 106 can include programmable hardware elements, such as an FPGA (field programmable gate array), integrated circuits (e.g., ASICs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), and / or any of a variety of other possible hardware components that are configured (e.g., individually or in combination) to perform any of the methods described herein or any portion thereof.

[0036] The AP 102 can be a standalone AP or an enterprise AP, can be a base transceiver station (BTS) or cell site, and can include hardware that enables wireless communication with the STA devices 106A and 106B. The AP 102 can also be equipped to communicate with the network 100 (e.g., a core network of a service provider (e.g., a cellular service provider, an internet service provider, and / or an operator), a WLAN, an enterprise network, and / or another communication network connected to the internet, among various possibilities). Thus, the AP 102 can facilitate communication between the STA devices 106 and / or between the STA devices 106 and the network 100. The AP 102 can be configured to provide communication through one or more wireless technologies, such as any of the following, any combination thereof, and / or all thereof: 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11ac, 802.11ad, 802.11ax, 802.11ay, 802.11be, and / or other 802.11 versions, and / or cellular protocols such as 6G, 5G, or LTE, including in unlicensed bands.

[0037] The communication area (or coverage area) of the AP 102 can be referred to as a basic service area (BSA) or a cell. The AP 102 and the STAs 106 can be configured to communicate through a transmission medium using any of a variety of radio access technologies (RATs) or wireless communication technologies, such as Wi-Fi, LTE, LTE-Advanced (LTE-A), 5G NR, 6G, Ultra-Wide Band (UWB), etc.

[0038] Accordingly, the AP 102 and other similar access points (not shown) that operate according to one or more wireless communication technologies can be set up as a network that can provide continuous or nearly continuous overlapping service to the STA devices 106A to 106B and similar devices within a geographic area, e.g., via one or more communication technologies. STAs can roam directly from one AP to another or can transition between APs and / or network cells (e.g., such as cellular network cells).

[0039] Note that, at least in some cases, the STA devices 106 can be capable of communicating using any of a variety of wireless communication technologies. For example, the STA devices 106 can be configured to communicate using Wi-Fi, LTE, LTE-A, 5G NR, 6G, Bluetooth, UWB, one or more satellite systems, etc. Other combinations of wireless communication technologies, including more than two wireless communication technologies, are also possible. Likewise, in some cases, the STA devices 106 can be configured to communicate using only a single wireless communication technology.

[0040] As shown, the example wireless communication system can also include an access point (AP) 104 that communicates with the wireless device 106B over a transmission medium. The AP 104 also provides a communication connection to the network 100. Thus, the wireless device can connect to either or both of the AP 102 (or another cellular base station) and the access point 104 (or another access point) to access the network 100. For example, the STA can roam from the AP 102 to the AP 104, e.g., based on one or more factors such as mobility, coverage, interference, and / or capability. Note that the AP 104 can also allow access to a different network than the network that the AP 102 allows access to (e.g., an enterprise Wi-Fi network, a home Wi-Fi network, etc.).

[0041] The STAs 106A and 106B can include handheld devices (such as smartphones or tablets), wearable devices (such as smartwatches, smartglasses, head-mounted display devices), and / or can include any of various types of devices that have wireless communication capability. For example, one or more of the STAs 106A and / or 106B can be a wireless device intended for fixed or nomadic deployment, such as a home appliance, a metering device / sensor, a control device, etc.

[0042] STA 106B can also be configured to communicate with STA 106A. For example, STA 106A and STA 106B can be capable of performing direct device-to-device (D2D) communication. Note that such direct communication between STAs can also be referred to or alternatively be known as peer-to-peer (P2P) communication. The direct communication can be supported by the AP 102 (e.g., the AP 102 can facilitate discovery, as well as various forms of assistance) or can be performed in a manner that is unsupported by the AP 102. According to various examples, such P2P communication can be performed using any of 3GPP-based D2D communication technology, Wi-Fi based P2P communication technology, UWB, BT, and / or any of various other direct communication technologies.

[0043] The STA 106 can include one or more devices or integrated circuits for facilitating wireless communication, potentially including a Wi-Fi modem, a cellular modem, and / or one or more other wireless modems. The wireless modems can include one or more processors (processor elements) and various hardware components as described herein. The STA 106 can perform any of the methods described herein (or any portion thereof) by executing instructions on one or more programmable processors. For example, the STA 106 can be configured to perform techniques for link adaptation with fast feedback in a wireless communication system, such as according to the various methods described herein. Alternatively or additionally, one or more processors can be one or more programmable hardware elements such as FPGA (field programmable gate array), ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), or other circuit that is configured to perform any of the methods described herein, or any portion of the methods described herein. The wireless modems described herein can be used in a STA device as defined herein, a wireless device as defined herein, or a communication device as defined herein. The wireless modems described herein can also be used in an AP, a base station, a pico cell, a femto cell, and / or other similar network-side devices.

[0044] The STA 106 can include one or more antennas for communicating using two or more wireless communication protocols or radio access technologies (RATs). In some cases, the STA device 106 can be configured to communicate using a single shared radio. The shared radio can be coupled to a single antenna, or can be coupled to multiple antennas (e.g., for MIMO) for performing wireless communication. Alternatively, the STA device 106 can include two or more radios, each of which can be configured to communicate via a respective wireless link. Other configurations are also possible.

[0045] Figure 2 - Example block diagram of a STA device

[0046] Figure 2 An example block diagram of a STA device, such as the STA 106, is illustrated. In some cases, the STA 106 can additionally or alternatively be referred to as a UE 106. The STA 106 can also be referred to as a non-AP STA 106. As illustrated, the STA 106 can include a system on chip (SOC) 200, which can include one or more portions configured for various purposes. Some or all of the various illustrated components (and / or other device components not illustrated, for example, in variants and alternative arrangements) can be “communicatively coupled” or “operatively coupled,” which can be taken to mean that the components can communicate, directly or indirectly, when the device is operational.

[0047] In some cases, the STA 106 can be configured as a multi-link device (MLD). In such cases, the STA 106 (e.g., one or more radio components of the STA 106) can be configured for concurrent data transmission and reception in multiple channels across a single band and / or multiple bands (e.g., such as the 2.4 GHz band, the 5 GHz band, and / or the 6 GHz band). Thus, the STA 106 (e.g., one or more radio components of the STA 106) can be configured to perform multi-link operations (MLO). For example, the STA 106 (e.g., one or more radio components of the STA 106) can be configured to perform simultaneous transmit receive (STR) operations (e.g., can be configured for simultaneous uplink and downlink traffic on a pair of links) and / or enhanced multi-link single radio (EMLSR) operations (e.g., can be configured such that a single radio is used to simultaneously listen to two or more links).

[0048] As illustrated, the SOC 200 can include a processor 202, which can execute program instructions for the STA 106, and a display circuit 204, which can perform graphics processing and provide display signals to the display 260. The SOC 200 can also include motion sensing circuitry 270, which can detect motion of the STA 106 in one or more dimensions, e.g., using a gyroscope, an accelerometer, and / or any of a variety of other motion sensing components. The processor 202 can also be coupled to a memory management unit (MMU) 240, which can be configured to receive addresses from the processor 202 and translate those addresses to locations in memory (e.g., a memory 206, a read-only memory (ROM) 250, flash memory 210). The MMU 240 can be configured to perform memory protection and page table translation or set up. In some cases, the MMU 240 can be included as a part of the processor 202.

[0049] As shown, SOC 200 can be coupled to various other circuitries of STA 106. For example, STA 106 can include various types of memory (e.g., including NAND flash 210), a connector interface 220 (e.g., for coupling to a computer system, a docking station, a charging station, etc.), a display 260, and wireless communication circuitry 230 (e.g., for LTE, LTE-A, 5G NR, 6G, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, GPS, UWB, peer-to-peer (P2P), device-to-device (D2D), etc.).

[0050] STA 106 can include at least one antenna, and in some cases multiple antennas, e.g., 235A and 235B, for performing wireless communications with access points, base stations, wireless stations, and / or other devices. For example, STA 106 can use antennas 235A and 235B to perform wireless communications. As noted above, STA 106 may, in some examples, be configured to use multiple wireless communication standards or radio access technologies (RATs) for wireless communications.

[0051] Wireless communication circuitry 230 can include a Wi-Fi modem 232, a cellular modem 234, and a Bluetooth modem 236. Note that one or more of Wi-Fi modem 232, cellular modem 234, and / or Bluetooth modem 236 can be configured for MLO, e.g., as described above. Wi-Fi modem 232 is used to enable STA 106 to perform Wi-Fi or other WLAN communications, e.g., over an 802.11 network. Bluetooth modem 236 is used to enable STA 106 to perform Bluetooth communications. Cellular modem 234 can be capable of performing cellular communications according to one or more cellular communication technologies, e.g., according to one or more 3GPP specifications.

[0052] As described herein, STA 106 can include hardware components and software components for implementing aspects of the present disclosure. For example, one or more components of wireless communication circuitry 230 (e.g., Wi-Fi modem 232, cellular modem 234, BT modem 236) of STA 106 can be configured to implement part or all of the methods described herein for link adaptation with fast feedback, e.g., by a processor executing program instructions stored on a memory medium (e.g., a non-transitory computer-readable memory medium), a processor configured as an FPGA (field programmable gate array), and / or using specialized hardware components that can include ASICs (application specific integrated circuits).

[0053] Figure 3 Block diagram of an access point

[0054] Figure 3An example block diagram of an access point (AP) 104 is illustrated. In some cases (e.g., in the context of 802.11 communications), the AP 104 can also be referred to as a station (STA), and possibly more specifically as an AP STA. Note that, Figure 3 The AP 104 is merely one example of a possible access point. As shown, the AP 104 can include a processor 304 that can execute program instructions for the AP 104. The processor 304 can also be coupled to a memory management unit (MMU) 340 that can be configured to receive addresses from the processor 304 and translate those addresses to locations in memory (e.g., a memory 360 and a read-only memory (ROM) 350), or to other circuitry or devices.

[0055] In some cases, the AP 104 can be configured as a multi-link device (MLD). In such cases, the AP 104 (e.g., one or more radio(s) of the AP 104) can be configured for concurrent data transmission and reception in multiple channels across a single band and / or multiple bands (e.g., such as the 2.4 GHz band, the 5 GHz band, and / or the 6 GHz band). Thus, the AP 104 (e.g., one or more radio(s) of the AP 104) can be configured to perform multi-link operations (MLOs). For example, the AP 104 (e.g., one or more radio(s) of the AP 104) can be configured to perform simultaneous transmit receive (STR) operations (e.g., can be configured for simultaneous uplink and downlink traffic on a pair of links) and / or enhanced multi-link single radio (EMLSR) operations (e.g., can be configured such that a single radio is used to simultaneously listen to two or more links).

[0056] The AP 104 can include at least one network port 370. The network port 370 can be configured to couple to a network, and provide the network access to the plurality of devices, such as the STA devices 106, for example as described herein above in Figure 1

[0057] The network port 370 (or an additional network port) can also or alternatively be configured to couple to a cellular network, such as a core network of a cellular service provider (e.g., an operator and / or cellular operator). The core network can provide mobility-related services and / or other services to a plurality of devices, such as the STA devices 106. In some cases, the network port 370 can couple to a telephone network via the core network, and / or the core network can provide a telephone network (e.g., among other STA devices served by the cellular service provider).

[0058] ​The AP 104 can include one or more radios 330A-N and at least one antenna 334 (and possibly multiple antennas), which can be coupled to one or more respective communication chains. The antenna 334 can be configured to operate in conjunction with one or more other components as a wireless transceiver and can also be configured to communicate with the STA devices 106 via the radios 330A-N. Note that one or more of the radios 330A-N can be configured for MLO, e.g., as described above. The antennas 334A-N communicate with one or more respective radios 330A-N via communication chains 332A-N. The communication chains 332 can be receive chains, transmit chains, or both. The radios 330A-N can be configured to communicate in accordance with various wireless communication standards, including but not limited to LTE, LTE-A, 5G NR, 6G, UWB, Wi-Fi, BT, and so on. The AP 104 can be configured to operate on multiple wireless links using one or more radios 330A-N. In some implementations, each radio can be used to operate on a respective wireless link.

[0059] The AP 104 can be configured to use multiple wireless communication standards for wireless communication. In some cases, the AP 104 can include multiple radios that can enable the network entity to communicate according to multiple wireless communication technologies. For example, as one possibility, the AP 104 can include a 4G or 5G radio for performing communications according to 3GPP wireless communication technologies, and a Wi-Fi radio for performing communications according to one or more Wi-Fi specifications. In this case, the AP 104 can be capable of operating as both a cellular base station and a Wi-Fi access point. As another possibility, the AP 104 can include a multi-mode radio that is capable of performing communications according to any of a variety of wireless communication technologies, e.g., 5G NR and Wi-Fi, 5G NR and LTE, and so on. As yet another possibility, the AP 104 can be configured to function solely as a Wi-Fi access point, e.g., without cellular communication capabilities.

[0060] As further described herein, the AP 104 can include hardware and software components for implementing or supporting implementation of the features described herein, such as link adaptation with fast feedback and various other possible features. The processor 304 of the AP 104 can be configured, e.g., by executing program instructions stored on a memory medium (e.g., a non-transitory computer-readable memory medium), to implement or support implementation of part or all of the methods described herein using multiple respective radios to operate multiple wireless links. Alternatively, the processor 304 can be configured as a programmable hardware element, such as an FPGA (field-programmable gate array) or ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit) or a combination thereof. Alternatively (or additionally), the processor 304 of the AP 104, in conjunction with one or more of the other components 330, 332, 334, 340, 350, 360, 370 can be configured to implement or support implementation of part or all of the features described herein.

[0061] Figure 4 - block diagram of a modem or baseband processor

[0062] Figure 4 An example block diagram of a modem 400, which can also be referred to as a baseband processor 400, is illustrated. The modem 400 can provide signal processing functionality for one or more wireless communication technologies, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and / or cellular (e.g., 3GPP) communication technologies. Thus, as one possibility, the modem 400 can represent a Wi-Fi modem; for example, Figure 4 The illustrated modem 400 can represent Figure 2 one possible example of the illustrated Wi-Fi modem 232. As another possibility, the modem 400 can represent a cellular modem or cellular baseband processor; for example, Figure 4 The illustrated modem 400 can represent Figure 2 one possible example of the illustrated cellular modem 234. As yet further possibilities, the modem 400 can represent a Bluetooth modem; for example, Figure 4 The illustrated modem 400 can represent Figure 2 one possible example of the illustrated Wi-Fi modem 236. In some cases, the modem 400 can implement functionality to support communications in accordance with multiple wireless communication technologies. At least in some cases, the modem 400 can run a real-time operating system, e.g., to facilitate performance of timing-dependent wireless communication functionality.

[0063] In some cases, modem 400 can be configured for concurrent data transmission and reception in multiple channels across a single band and / or multiple bands (e.g., such as the 2.4 GHz band, the 5 GHz band, and / or the 6 GHz band). Accordingly, modem 400 can be configured to perform multi-link operations (MLO). For example, modem 400 can be configured to perform simultaneous transmit receive (STR) operations (e.g., can be configured for simultaneous uplink and downlink traffic on a pair of links) and / or enhanced multi-link single radio (EMLSR) operations (e.g., can be configured such that a single radio is used to simultaneously listen to two or more links).

[0064] Modem 400 can include processing circuitry 402, which can include one or more processor cores, ASICs, programmable hardware elements, digital signal processors, and / or other processing elements. The processing circuitry can be capable of preparing baseband signals for frequency up-conversion and transmission by radio circuitry of a wireless device, and / or processing baseband signals received and down-converted by radio circuitry of a wireless device. Such processing can include signal modulation, coding, decoding, etc. among various possible functions. The processing circuitry can also or alternatively be capable of performing functionality of one or more baseband and / or other layers / sub-layers of a protocol stack for a wireless communication technology implemented by modem 400, such as physical layer (PHY) functionality, medium access control (MAC) functionality, logical link control (LLC) functionality, radio resource control (RRC) functionality, radio link control (RLC) functionality, etc. In some cases, modem 400 itself can include at least some radio circuitry (e.g., for performing conversion of input baseband signals to radio frequency signals and / or conversion of input radio frequency signals to baseband signals). Alternatively or additionally, some or all such functionality can be performed by a separate radio / transceiver component of a wireless device.

[0065] Modem 400 can also include memory 404, which can include non-transitory computer-readable memory media. Memory 404 can include program instructions for performing signal processing and / or any of a variety of possible general processing functions. Processing circuitry 402 can be capable of executing program instructions stored in memory 404. Memory 404 can also store data generated and / or used by processing circuitry 402 during processing.

[0066] As shown, modem 400 can also include, for example, a wireless interface 406 for communicating with a wireless device (such as a base station, another modem, etc.) via a wireless connection. Wireless interface 406 can include radio circuitry for transmitting and receiving signals via the wireless connection. Wireless interface 406 can also include a transceiver for transmitting and receiving signals via the wireless connection. In some cases, wireless interface 406 can be capable of transmitting and receiving signals via multiple wireless connections. Figures 1-3interface circuitry for the other components of the STA 106 or AP 104 (such as an application processor, radio / transceiver circuitry, and / or any of various other components) to communicate. Such interfaces can be implemented in any of various ways; as one possibility, for example, the modem 400 can have a direct interface with the transceiver circuitry of the wireless device, and can have an additional indirect interface through a system bus with the application processor and / or other components of the wireless device. Other configurations are also possible.

[0067] In at least some cases, the hardware and software components of the modem 400 can be configured to implement or support implementation of the features described herein, such as link adaptation with fast feedback, as well as various other possible features. For example, the processing circuitry 402 of the modem 400 can be configured to implement or support implementation of some or all of the methods described herein, e.g., by executing program instructions stored on a memory (e.g., a non-transitory computer-readable memory medium) 404 and / or using dedicated hardware components.

[0068] Link adaptation with fast feedback

[0069] In current implementations of link adaptation algorithms, the signal-to- interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR) is not tracked, which can result in throughput loss and potentially higher power consumption, such as when there is a burst of interference. This problem can be exacerbated in IEEE 802.11bn Ultra High Reliability (UHR) WiFi, as new modulation coding scheme (MCS) levels will be added, and more unequal modulation (UEQM) modes will be introduced.

[0070] In more detail, one problem with current implementations is that when channel conditions deteriorate and / or when the channel experiences interference, the rate of data transmission on the link can quickly drop, whereas when channel conditions improve and / or when the interference subsides or disappears, the rate can slowly recover. In IEEE 802.11bn, this problem can be exacerbated due to the introduction of new MCS levels, as there can be more MCS steps (e.g., from one level to another) before converging to the optimal MCS level, which can further slow down recovery. In addition, adding more UEQM modes can further complicate recovery, and can require knowledge of per-flow SINR.

[0071] For example, in scenarios where the channel changes slowly without interference, rate adaptation (e.g., link adaptation) algorithms can work well, but can suffer some throughput loss due to failed probes. In some cases, there can be about a ten percent throughput loss for Automatic Rate Fallback (ARF) and about a five percent throughput loss for Adaptive ARF (AARF) for a ten percent target packet error rate (PER).

[0072] As another example, in scenarios where there is unknown scheduled random interference on the channel, there can be significant SINR variations that can impact rate adaptation algorithms. In some cases, such as overlapping basic service set (OBSS) traffic on the primary channel, the SINR can vary up to 20 decibels (dB) depending on whether OBSS traffic is currently present. Moreover, since traffic patterns vary for different applications, the impact of rate adaptation algorithms can also vary. In other cases, such as burst interference caused by desense from co-located radio components, can also impact rate adaptation algorithms. In these cases, current implementations of rate adaptation algorithms have difficulty tracking fast and varying SINR changes. Thus, ARF and AARF can suffer significant throughput loss due to failed SINR tracking, causing devices to remain at lower MCSs for longer than necessary given the actual channel conditions.

[0073] As yet another example, in scenarios where there is per-stream SINR variation, there can be significant SINR variations that can impact rate adaptation algorithms. In some cases, such as when one antenna of a device suffers penetration loss due to hand-holding, there can be a large per-stream SINR difference between that antenna and another antenna that is not affected by hand-holding. Moreover, outdated channel state information (CSI) can degrade beamforming and also cause SINR gaps between spatial streams. In current implementations, rate adaptation algorithms can keep the current number of spatial streams (Nss) but discard the associated rates. In this case, since MCS selection is limited by the worst spatial stream, ARF and AARF can suffer throughput loss.

[0074] The implementations described herein improve link adaptation for a device by adding fast feedback in a block acknowledgement (BA). Specifically, the implementations described herein include solutions for a fast feedback protocol, what to feedback, and schemes for how to establish trust between a transmitter and a receiver and how to allow more processing time on the receiver side. Specifically, the implementations described herein provide solutions for a fast feedback protocol framework, such as how to negotiate, order, enable, and / or disable fast feedback, and what information to include in the feedback and how to carry / send such feedback. In addition to this, the implementations described herein provide solutions for addressing trust issues between a transmitting device and a receiving device, such as whether the feedback is accurate and / or whether fast feedback will improve a subsequent transmission, and how to increase processing time for fast feedback, such as in and / or when the processing time increases beyond a short interframe space (SIFS) timeframe.

[0075] In some cases, as part of a fast feedback (FFb) protocol, FFb can be added in a block acknowledgement (BA) frame. In addition, FFb can also be added in a multi-station BA (MBA) frame. In other words, FFb can be carried by a BA frame and / or by a MBA frame. Additionally, as part of a FFb protocol, FFb can be unsolicited (e.g., added by a receiving device as needed), solicited (e.g., requested by a transmitting device as needed), and / or negotiated as part of a BA agreement (e.g., at BA setup between a receiving device and a transmitting device).

[0076] For example, Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 Examples of signaling to support rate adaptation with FFb are illustrated in accordance with some embodiments. Specifically, Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 Examples of signaling to support rate adaptation with immediate FFb are illustrated, and Figure 8 and Figure 9 Examples of signaling to support rate adaptation with delayed FFb are illustrated. In various embodiments, some of the signaling shown can be performed in a different order than shown, can be replaced by one or more other signals, or can be omitted. Additional signaling can also be performed as needed.

[0077] Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 Aspects of the signaling of FIGS. 1-4 can be performed by a wireless device, such as a station (STA), a client device, a user equipment (UE), a mobile device, a personal computer, a tablet, a wearable device, a server, a network device, a router, a switch, a modem, a wireless modem, a wireless access point (AP), a base station (BS), a subscriber station (SS), a subscriber unit, a mobile unit, a wireless unit, a mobile node, a remote station, a remote terminal, a remote unit, a user terminal, a terminal, a wireless terminal, a user agent, a user device, or some other terminology used to indicate a wireless device.Figures 1-4 The AP 104 or the STA 106 illustrated and described in relation to these figures can be implemented, or more generally, any of the computer circuitry, systems, devices, elements, or components, etc. shown in relation to these figures can be implemented, as desired, in connection with the AP 104 or the STA 106. For example, a processor of such a device, such as in the AP 104 or the STA 106, can be configured to perform any combination of the signaling elements and / or other signaling shown. Figure 4 The baseband processor 400 illustrated and described in relation to this figure can be configured to cause the device to perform any combination of the signaling elements and / or other signaling shown.

[0078] Note that while Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 of the signaling is described in relation to using communication techniques and / or features associated with IEEE 802.11 specification documents, such descriptions are not intended to limit the present disclosure, and aspects of the signaling of Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 of the signaling can be used in any suitable wireless communication system, as desired. Turning to Figure 5 As shown, the signaling can operate as follows.

[0079] At 502, a wireless device and / or a baseband processor of a wireless device, such as the wireless device 106, can receive a physical protocol data unit (PPDU) from an access point and / or a baseband processor of an access point, such as the access point 104.

[0080] At 504, the wireless device and / or the baseband processor of the wireless device can transmit, e.g., unsolicited, a block acknowledgement (BA) frame including a fast feedback (FFb) to the access point and / or the baseband processor of the access point. In other words, the wireless device and / or the baseband processor of the wireless device can decide and / or determine to include and / or include the FFb in and / or with the BA frame. As noted above, the FFb can be carried in a multi- station BA (MBA) frame as well as in a BA frame. In the MBA frame, the FFb can be included in each AID TID information subfield using a reserved Ack type and TID combination. Further, the block ACK bitmap field in the MBA can be redefined as FFb information.

[0081] Turning to Figure 6 As shown, the signaling can operate as follows.

[0082] At 602, the wireless device and / or the baseband processor of the wireless device, such as the wireless device 106, can receive a physical protocol data unit (PPDU) from an access point and / or the baseband processor of the access point, such as the access point 104. The PPDU can include a request for fast feedback (FFb). For example, a header of the PPDU can include a FFb request bit, and the access point can use the FFb request bit to indicate FFb in a response BA / order FFb in a response BA.

[0083] At 604, the wireless device and / or the baseband processor of the wireless device can transmit a block acknowledgement (BA) frame including fast feedback (FFb) to the access point and / or the baseband processor of the access point, e.g., in a solicited manner. In other words, the wireless device and / or the baseband processor of the wireless device can decide and / or determine to include the FFb in and / or with the BA frame based on receiving an indication to provide the FFb in the PPDU. As noted above, the FFb can be carried in a multi-station BA (MBA) frame as well as in a BA frame. In the MBA frame, the FFb can be included in each AID TID information subfield using a reserved Ack type and TID combination. Further, the block ACK bitmap field in the MBA can be redefined as FFb information.

[0084] Turning to Figure 7 As illustrated, the signaling can operate as follows.

[0085] At 702, the wireless device and / or the baseband processor of the wireless device, such as the wireless device 106, can transmit an add block acknowledgement (ADDBA) request frame to the access point and / or the baseband processor of the access point, such as the access point 104. As Figure 8 illustrated, the ADDBA request frame can include a BA field / indicator with fast feedback and other fields. Such field / indicator can be used to request fast feedback (FFb).

[0086] At 704, the wireless device and / or the baseband processor of the wireless device can receive an ADDBA response frame from the access point and / or the baseband processor of the access point. As Figure 9As shown, the ADDBA response frame can include a BA field / indicator with fast feedback and other fields. Such fields / indicators can be used to indicate whether a wireless device can use FFb. For example, in some cases, such fields can include 1 bit to indicate whether FFb can be included in / with the BA, and 1 bit to indicate whether a negative acknowledgement (NACK) can be reported in the BA when all MAC protocol data units (MPDUs) fail. In addition to this, such fields can include one or more bits to indicate whether FFb can be delayed (e.g., delayed FFb or immediate FFb). In addition to this, such fields can include additional subfields, such as AID TID information for FFb in a multiple- station BA (MBA).

[0087] At 706, the wireless device and / or the baseband processor of the wireless device can receive a physical protocol data unit (PPDU) from an access point and / or a baseband processor of the access point.

[0088] At 708, the wireless device and / or the baseband processor of the wireless device can transmit a block acknowledgement (BA) frame including fast feedback (FFb) to the access point and / or the baseband processor of the access point, for example, based on negotiating that FFb can be included in / with the BA frame. As noted above, FFb can be carried in a multiple-station BA (MBA) frame as well as a BA frame. In the MBA frame, FFb can be included in each AID TID information subfield using a reserved Ack type and TID combination. In addition, the block ACK bitmap field in the MBA can be redefined as FFb information.

[0089] Turning to Figure 11 As shown, the signaling can operate as follows.

[0090] At 802, the wireless device and / or the baseband processor of the wireless device, such as the wireless device 106, can receive a physical protocol data unit (PPDU) from an access point and / or a baseband processor of the access point, such as the access point 104.

[0091] At 804, the wireless device and / or the baseband processor of the wireless device can receive a block acknowledgement request (BAR) frame from an access point and / or a baseband processor of the access point.

[0092] At 806, the wireless device and / or the baseband processor of the wireless device can send a block acknowledgement (BA) frame including a fast feedback (FFb) to the access point and / or the baseband processor of the access point, e.g., in a delayed manner. In other words, the wireless device and / or the baseband processor of the wireless device can not be capable of providing an immediate BA with FFb, which would require the BA with FFb to occur a short interframe space (SIFS) after the received PPDU is measured. Thus, in some cases, the wireless device and / or the baseband processor of the wireless device can indicate a FFb capability to the access point and / or the baseband processor of the access point prior to receiving the PPDU. For example, the wireless device and / or the baseband processor of the wireless device can only support an immediate BA with FFb up to a maximum bandwidth (BW) and a maximum number of Nss. Thus, in some cases, the FFb capability can be defined as a threshold of <BW, Nss> combinations. As noted above, the FFb can be carried in a multi-station BA (MBA) frame as well as a BA frame. In the MBA frame, the FFb can be included in each AID TID information subfield using a reserved Ack type and TID combination. Further, the block ACK bitmap field in the MBA can be redefined as the FFb information.

[0093] Turning to Figure 12 As shown, the signaling can operate as follows.

[0094] At 902, the wireless device and / or the baseband processor of the wireless device, such as the wireless device 106, can receive a physical protocol data unit (PPDU) from the access point and / or the baseband processor of the access point, such as the access point 104.

[0095] At 904, the wireless device and / or the baseband processor of the wireless device can send a block acknowledgement (BA) frame to the access point and / or the baseband processor of the access point.

[0096] At 906, the wireless device and / or the baseband processor of the wireless device can receive another PPDU from the access point and / or the baseband processor of the access point.

[0097] At 908, the wireless device and / or the baseband processor of the wireless device can send a BA frame with FFb for the PPDU received at 904 to the access point and / or the baseband processor of the access point when the PPDU of 906 is received from the access point and / or the baseband processor of the access point within a timeout period.

[0098] At 910, the wireless device and / or the baseband processor of the wireless device can receive another PPDU from the access point and / or the baseband processor of the access point.

[0099] At 912, when the PPDU at 910 is received from the access point and / or the baseband processor of the access point within the timeout period, the wireless device and / or the baseband processor of the wireless device can send a BA frame with FFb to the access point and / or the baseband processor of the access point for the PPDU received at 906.

[0100] Note that in some cases, different PPDUs (e.g., PPDUs 902, 906, and 910) can have different transmit power, different number of spatial streams, and / or different MCS levels. Thus, the measurements from different PPDUs can be different, and if the feedback is the effective per-stream SINR of the Nss and MCS used in the measured PPDU, the transmitter side (e.g., the access point) needs to know from which PPDU the FFb is measured, and thus, if the FFb is not fed back in the immediate BA as in Figure 11 and Figure 12 FFb needs to include some signaling / information to link the FFb to the specific PPDU. For example, a PPDU sequence number (SN) can be included in the preamble of the PPDU, and the FFb can include the PPDU SN to link the FFb to the PPDU. As another example, the PPDUs received within the timeout period can use different scrambling seeds, and the PPDU carrying the BA with FFb can use the same scrambling seed to link the FFb to the specific PPDU. As yet another example, a portion of the preamble of the PPDU can be used as a PPDU signature, and the FFb linked to the specific PPDU can include the PPDU signature of the specific PPDU. The PPDU signature can be bits from the preamble, such as the L_Length field in the L_SIG field, the cyclic redundancy check (CRC) field of the U-SIG field or the ultra-high reliability signal (UHR-SIG) field, the combination of the CRC fields of the U-SIG field and the UHR-SIG field, the combination of the disregard bits, and / or the CRC field plus 1 or 2 disregard bits in case of CRC field collision. As still another example, the signature bits of the PPDU can be included in the data field of the PPDU, and the FFb linked to the specific PPDU can include the signature bits that are included in the data field of the specific PPDU. As another example, the signature bits of the PPDU can be the PPDU identifier included in the medium access control (MAC) header of the PPDU or the Galois counter mode protocol (GCMP) header of the PPDU, and the FFb linked to the specific PPDU can include the PPDU identifier that is included in the MAC header or the GCMP header of the specific PPDU.

[0101] In the signaling described herein, the FFb can include any one of, any combination of, and / or all of (e.g., one or more of and / or at least one of) a recommended number of spatial streams (Nss), a recommended modulation and coding scheme (MCS) index and / or level, and / or a recommended anchor MCS index and / or level plus a recommended unequal modulation (UEQM) mode. In addition to this, the FFb can include a per-stream effective signal to interference plus noise ratio (SINR) based at least in part on a modulation level applied to each stream. For example, the FFb can include a recommended Nss and a recommended MCS index / level and a per-stream effective SINR. As another example, the FFb can include a recommended Nss, an anchor MCS index / level and a UEQM mode and a per-stream effective SINR.

[0102] In some cases, the FFb can include any one of, any combination of, and / or all of (e.g., one or more of and / or at least one of) a recommended MCS index / level and / or an anchor MCS index / level plus a recommended UEQM mode for the Nss used in the received and measured PPDU. In addition to this, the FFb can include a per-stream effective SINR based at least in part on a modulation level applied to each stream. In such cases, Nss feedback can not be necessary and thus not included in the FFb, as the Nss can be implied by the per-stream effective SINR. For example, the FFb can include a recommended MCS index / level and a per-stream effective SINR. As another example, the FFb can include an anchor MCS index / level and a UEQM mode and a per-stream effective SINR.

[0103] In some cases, the FFb can include any of, any combination of, and / or all of (e.g., one or more of, and / or at least one of) a recommended number of spatial streams (Nss), a recommended modulation and coding scheme (MCS) index and / or level or an anchor MCS index and / or level, and / or a recommended unequal modulation (UEQM) mode. In addition to this, the FFb can include a per-stream effective SINR margin. The per-stream SINR margin can be defined as the per-stream effective SINR minus the effective SINR required for the MCS on that stream. In some cases, Nss feedback can not be necessary and thus not included in the FFb, as Nss can be implied by the per-stream effective SINR margin. In some cases, the FFb can change to a recommended best MCS and / or anchor MCS and a recommended UEQM mode. For example, the FFb can include a recommended Nss, a recommended MCS index / level and UEQM mode, and a per-stream effective SINR margin. As another example, the FFb can include a recommended Nss, an anchor MCS index / level and UEQM mode, and a per-stream effective SINR margin. As yet another example, the FFb can include a recommended MCS index / level and UEQM mode, and a per-stream effective SINR margin. As still another example, the FFb can include an anchor MCS index / level and UEQM mode, and a per-stream effective SINR margin.

[0104] In some cases, the FFb can include a per-stream effective SINR for the current MCS / Nss combination. In some cases, the FFb can include a per-stream effective SINR margin for the current MCS / NSS combination. In other words, the only feedback information included in the FFb can be a per-stream effective SINR or effective SINR margin for the current MCS / Nss combination.

[0105] In some cases, the FFb can include a reference MCS and a per-stream effective SINR or effective SINR margin for the reference MCS and the current Nss. Note that the reference MCS can be indicated as a delta MCS or a delta anchor MCS. For example, the reference MCS can be an increase of one MCS level from the current MCS level. As another example, the reference MCS can be a decrease of one MCS level from the current MCS level. In other words, the reference MCS can not be the recommended best MCS, but rather the reference MCS can be an indication to probe a higher or lower MCS level, with the effective per-stream SINR / SINR margin being for the probed MCS level.

[0106] In addition to the above, the FFb feedback can be further enhanced to include an interference pattern and / or a sounding recommendation. Such information can indicate whether the wireless device (e.g., receiving device) is experiencing frequent changing interference or short burst interference. Note that using the MCS feedback directly when the wireless device is experiencing short burst interference can negatively impact performance. Further, such information can indicate whether the access point (e.g., transmitting device) is recommended to use the MCS provided in the FFb directly or to treat the FFb as a sounding recommendation or suggestion for the transmitter to filter multiple FFbs. For example, the FFb can include 1 bit to indicate to use the FFb directly or to use the FFb as a sounding recommendation instead. In other words, the FFb can include a 1-bit flag to indicate how to apply the FFb, e.g., when the flag has a value of 1, the FFb can be used directly, and when the flag has a value of 0, the FFb can be used as a sounding recommendation. Alternatively, when the flag has a value of 0, the FFb can be used directly, and when the flag has a value of 1, the FFb can be used as a sounding recommendation.

[0107] Note that in the above description, unequal modulation can allow different modulation levels for different spatial streams, but all spatial streams can still use joint encoding and the same code rate. Further note that the anchor MCS can be considered the MCS for the first (or strongest) spatial stream, and the other spatial streams will use the same coding rate as the anchor MCS, but can use a lower modulation level. Thus, the UE QM mode is the modulation mode across multiple spatial streams. For example, for three spatial beams, the mode can be: a first quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) (e.g., such as 64QAM) corresponding to the anchor MCS; a second QAM, which can be a repetition of the first QAM; and a third QAM, which can be one QAM less than the first QAM (e.g., if the first QAM is 64QAM, one QAM less is 16QAM). As another example, for two spatial beams, the mode can be: a first quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) (e.g., such as 64QAM) corresponding to the anchor MCS; and a second QAM, which can be one QAM less than the first QAM (e.g., if the first QAM is 64QAM, one QAM less is 16QAM).

[0108] Further note that in the above description, the per-beam effective SINR can be defined as:

[0109] SNIR eff,k = Φ -1 (RBIR k ; M)

[0110]

[0111] where U is a zero-mean complex Gaussian random variable with variance 1, N is the total number of tones, T is the total number of orthogonal frequency division modulation (OFDM) symbols, and RBIR is the received bit mutual information rate.

[0112] Accordingly, according to Figures 1-4 , Figure 4 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 and Figure 11 signaling, fast feedback can be provided in WLAN settings, for example, to provide better rate adaptation during various interference events. At least according to some embodiments, such techniques can reduce throughput loss and improve power consumption during such events.

[0113] Figure 12 and Figure 11 are flow diagrams illustrating example methods for performing link adaptation with fast feedback in a wireless local area network, in accordance with some embodiments. In various embodiments, some of the elements shown can be performed concurrently, in a different order than shown, can be omitted, or can be substituted for by one or more other elements. Additional elements can also be performed as desired.

[0114] Figure 12 and Figure 11 Aspects of the elements of Figure 12 may be implemented by a wireless device such as an AP 104 or a STA 106, as illustrated and described with respect to the figures, or more generally, can be implemented in accordance with any of the computer circuitry, systems, devices, elements, or components, etc. shown in the figures, as desired. For example, a processor of such a device, such as the baseband processor 400 illustrated and described with respect to FIG. 4, and / or other hardware, can be configured to cause the device to perform any combination of the elements shown and / or other elements. ​ Aspects of the elements of

[0115] Note that ​ and ​ elements are described in relation to using communication techniques and / or features associated with IEEE 802.11 specification documents, but such descriptions are not intended to limit the present disclosure, and ​ and ​ Aspects of the elements of ​ As shown, the method can operate as follows.

[0116] At 1102, a wireless device and / or a baseband processor of a wireless device, such as a wireless device 106, can receive a physical protocol data unit (PPDU), for example, from another wireless device, such as from an access point and / or a baseband processor of an access point, such as an access point 104.

[0117] At 1104, the wireless device and / or the baseband processor of the wireless device can transmit a block acknowledgement (BA) frame including the fast feedback information to another wireless device.

[0118] In some cases, in response to receiving the PPDU, the wireless device and / or the baseband processor of the wireless device can determine to include the fast feedback information in the BA frame. The determination to include the fast feedback information in the BA frame can be based at least in part on the detected interference pattern. In at least some cases, the detected interference pattern can be a stable interference across multiple received PPDUs.

[0119] In some cases, the PPDU can include a fast feedback information request in a physical header of the PPDU. In such cases, the fast feedback information request can be indicated by a bit in the physical header of the PPDU. Further, the BA frame including the fast feedback information can be transmitted based at least in part on the PPDU including the fast feedback information request.

[0120] In some cases, prior to receiving the PPDU, the wireless device and / or the baseband processor of the wireless device can transmit an add BA (ADDBA) request frame including a request to use fast feedback information and receive an ADDBA response frame including a confirmation to include the fast feedback information in the BA frame. The ADDBA request frame can include a BA field with fast feedback to indicate the request to use the fast feedback information. Further, the ADDBA response frame can include a BA field with fast feedback to indicate the confirmation to include the fast feedback information in the BA frame. In addition, the BA field with fast feedback can include at least one of: one bit to indicate whether to include fast feedback in the BA frame; one bit to indicate whether to include a negative acknowledgement (NACK) report in the BA frame when all medium access control (MAC) protocol data units (MPDUs) fail; and / or one bit to indicate whether the fast feedback information is immediate or delayed. Additionally, the BA field with fast feedback can also include one or more subfields, such as special association identifier (AID)-traffic identifier (TID) information for fast feedback in a multi-station BA (MBA) frame.

[0121] In some cases, prior to transmitting the BA frame including the fast feedback information, the wireless device and / or the baseband processor of the wireless device can receive a block acknowledgement request (BAR) frame. In such cases, the BA frame including the fast feedback information can be transmitted in response to receiving the BAR frame.

[0122] In some cases, prior to transmitting the BA frame including the fast feedback information, the wireless device and / or the baseband processor of the wireless device can receive an additional PPDU within a specified timeout period associated with the reception of the PPDU. In such cases, the BA frame including the fast feedback information can identify that the fast feedback information is linked to the PPDU. For example, to identify that the fast feedback is linked to the PPDU, the fast feedback information can include a sequence number included in a preamble of the PPDU, can be scrambled using a scrambling seed used to scramble the PPDU, can include a signature bit included in a preamble of the PPDU, can include a signature bit included in a data field of the PPDU, can include a PPDU identifier included in a medium access control (MAC) header of the PPDU, and / or can include a PPDU identifier included in a Galois counter mode protocol (GCMP) header of the PPDU.

[0123] In some cases, prior to receiving the PPDU, the wireless device and / or the baseband processor of the wireless device can transmit a capability indicating when immediate fast feedback is supported. The capability can be defined as a threshold of bandwidth and number of spatial streams (Nss) combinations. For example, for bandwidth and Nss combinations that exceed the threshold, delayed fast feedback can be supported. As another example, for bandwidth and Nss combinations that do not exceed the threshold, immediate fast feedback can be supported.

[0124] In some cases, the fast feedback information can include a per-stream effective signal to interference plus noise ratio (SINR). The SINR can be based at least in part on a modulation level applied to each stream. In such cases, the fast feedback information can also include a recommended modulation and coding scheme (MCS) index or level or an anchor MCS index or level and a recommended unequal modulation (UEQM) mode. In some cases, the fast feedback information can also include a recommended number of spatial streams (Nss). In addition, the fast feedback information can include a recommended MCS index or level for the Nss used to receive and measure the PPDU. Additionally, the fast feedback information can include an anchor MCS index or level and a UEQM mode for the Nss used to receive and measure the PPDU.

[0125] In some cases, the fast feedback information can include a per-stream effective signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR) margin. The SINR margin can be defined as the per-stream effective SINR minus the effective SINR required for the MCS on that stream. Further, the SINR margin can be based at least in part on the modulation level applied to each stream. In some cases, the fast feedback information can also include a recommended MCS index or level or an anchor MSC index or level and a recommended UE QM mode. In some cases, the fast feedback information can also include a recommended Nss. In addition to this, the fast feedback information can also include a recommended MCS index or level for the Nss used to receive and measure the PPDU. Additionally, the fast feedback information can also include an anchor MCS index or level and a UE QM mode for the Nss used to receive and measure the PPDU.

[0126] In some cases, the fast feedback information can include a per-stream effective signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR) for a current modulation and coding scheme (MCS) and a number of spatial streams (Nss).

[0127] In some cases, the fast feedback information can include a per-stream effective signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR) margin for a current modulation and coding scheme (MCS) and a number of spatial streams (Nss). In such cases, the effective SINR margin can be based at least in part on the modulation level applied to each stream.

[0128] In some cases, the fast feedback information can include a per-stream effective signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR) or SINR margin for a reference modulation and coding scheme (MCS) and a number of spatial streams (Nss). The effective SINR margin can be based at least in part on the modulation level applied to each stream. In addition to this, the reference MCS can be indicated as a delta MCS or a delta anchor MCS. In some cases, the reference MCS can be one level up or one level down from the current MCS level.

[0129] In some cases, the fast feedback information can include one or more of an interference pattern or a sounding recommendation. In such cases, the interference pattern can indicate whether the interference is relatively stable across a plurality of received PPDUs, frequently varying across the plurality of received PPDUs, or a short burst of interference. Further, the fast feedback information can include a 1 -bit indicating whether to use the fast feedback information directly for link adaptation or to use the fast feedback as a sounding recommendation.

[0130] Turning to ​ As shown, the method can operate as follows.

[0131] At 1202, a wireless device and / or a baseband processor of the wireless device, such as an access point 104, can transmit a physical protocol data unit (PPDU), e.g., to another wireless device, such as to a baseband processor of the wireless device and / or a wireless device, such as the wireless device 106.

[0132] At 1204, the wireless device and / or the baseband processor of the wireless device can receive a block acknowledgement (BA) frame including fast feedback information from the other wireless device.

[0133] In some cases, the BA frame including fast feedback information can be received unsolicited. In other cases, the BA frame including fast feedback information can be received solicited. For example, the PPDU can include a fast feedback information request in a physical header of the PPDU. In such cases, the fast feedback information request can be indicated by a bit in the physical header of the PPDU. Further, the BA frame including fast feedback information can be received based at least in part on the PPDU including the fast feedback information request.

[0134] In some cases, prior to transmitting the PPDU, the wireless device and / or the baseband processor of the wireless device can receive an add BA (ADDBA) request frame including a request to use fast feedback information, and transmit an ADDBA response frame including a confirmation to include fast feedback information in the BA frame. The ADDBA request frame can include a BA field with fast feedback to indicate the request to use fast feedback information. Further, the ADDBA response frame can include a BA field with fast feedback to indicate the confirmation to include fast feedback information in the BA frame. In addition to this, the BA field with fast feedback can include at least one of: one bit to indicate whether to include fast feedback in the BA frame; one bit to indicate whether to include a negative acknowledgement (NACK) report in the BA frame when all medium access control (MAC) protocol data units (MPDUs) fail; and / or one bit to indicate whether the fast feedback information is immediate or delayed. Additionally, the BA field with fast feedback can also include one or more subfields, such as special association identifier (AID)-traffic identifier (TID) information for fast feedback in a multi-station BA (MBA) frame.

[0135] In some cases, prior to receiving the BA frame including fast feedback information, the wireless device and / or the baseband processor of the wireless device can transmit a block acknowledgement request (BAR) frame. In such cases, the BA frame including fast feedback information can be received in response to transmitting the BAR frame.

[0136] In some cases, prior to receiving the BA frame including the fast feedback information, the wireless device and / or the baseband processor of the wireless device can transmit an additional PPDU within a specified timeout period associated with the transmission of the PPDU. In such cases, the BA frame including the fast feedback information can identify that the fast feedback information is linked to the PPDU. For example, to identify that the fast feedback is linked to the PPDU, the fast feedback information can include a sequence number included in a preamble of the PPDU, can be scrambled using a scrambling seed used to scramble the PPDU, can include a signature bit included in a preamble of the PPDU, can include a signature bit included in a data field of the PPDU, can include a PPDU identifier included in a medium access control (MAC) header of the PPDU, and / or can include a PPDU identifier included in a Galois counter mode protocol (GCMP) header of the PPDU.

[0137] In some cases, prior to transmitting the PPDU, the wireless device and / or the baseband processor of the wireless device can receive a capability indicating when immediate fast feedback is supported. The capability can be defined as a threshold of bandwidth and number of spatial streams (Nss) combinations. For example, for bandwidth and Nss combinations that exceed the threshold, delayed fast feedback can be supported. As another example, for bandwidth and Nss combinations that do not exceed the threshold, immediate fast feedback can be supported.

[0138] In some cases, the fast feedback information can include a per-stream effective signal to interference plus noise ratio (SINR). The SINR can be based at least in part on a modulation level applied to each stream. In such cases, the fast feedback information can also include a recommended modulation and coding scheme (MCS) index or level or an anchor MCS index or level and a recommended unequal modulation (UEQM) mode. In some cases, the fast feedback information can also include a recommended number of spatial streams (Nss). In addition, the fast feedback information can include a recommended MCS index or level for the Nss used to receive and measure the PPDU. Additionally, the fast feedback information can include an anchor MCS index or level and a UEQM mode for the Nss used to receive and measure the PPDU.

[0139] In some cases, the fast feedback information can include a per-stream effective signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR) margin. The SINR margin can be defined as the per-stream effective SINR minus the effective SINR required for the MCS on that stream. Further, the SINR margin can be based at least in part on the modulation level applied to each stream. In some cases, the fast feedback information can also include a recommended MCS index or level or an anchor MSC index or level and a recommended UE QM mode. In some cases, the fast feedback information can also include a recommended Nss. In addition, the fast feedback information can include a recommended MCS index or level for the Nss used to receive and measure the PPDU. Additionally, the fast feedback information can include an anchor MCS index or level and a UE QM mode for the Nss used to receive and measure the PPDU.

[0140] In some cases, the fast feedback information can include a per-stream effective signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR) for a current modulation and coding scheme (MCS) and number of spatial streams (Nss).

[0141] In some cases, the fast feedback information can include a per-stream effective signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR) margin for a current modulation and coding scheme (MCS) and number of spatial streams (Nss). In such cases, the effective SINR margin can be based at least in part on the modulation level applied to each stream.

[0142] In some cases, the fast feedback information can include a per-stream effective signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR) or SINR margin for a reference modulation and coding scheme (MCS) and number of spatial streams (Nss). The effective SINR margin can be based at least in part on the modulation level applied to each stream. In addition, the reference MCS can be indicated as a delta MCS or a delta anchor MCS. In some cases, the reference MCS can be one level up or one level down from the current MCS level.

[0143] In some cases, the fast feedback information can include one or more of an interference pattern or a sounding recommendation. In such cases, the interference pattern can indicate whether the interference is relatively stable across multiple received PPDUs, frequently varying across the multiple received PPDUs, or a short burst of interference. Further, the fast feedback information can include a 1-bit to indicate whether to use the fast feedback information directly for link adaptation or to use the fast feedback as a sounding recommendation.

[0144] Accordingly, according to the methods of ​ and ​ fast feedback can be provided in WLAN settings, for example, to provide better rate adaptation during various interference events. At least according to some embodiments, such techniques can reduce throughput loss and improve power consumption during such events.

[0145] It is well understood that the use of personally identifiable information should follow privacy policies and practices that are generally recognized as satisfying or exceeding industry- or government-recognized standards for maintaining the privacy of users. In particular, personally identifiable information data should be managed and handled in a manner that minimizes the risks it faces from unauthorized or illegal access or use, and that is consistent with privacy policies and practices that are considered by reputable organizations to be making a reasonable effort to maintain compliance with appropriate privacy standards.

[0146] In addition to the exemplary embodiments described above, more embodiments of the disclosure can be implemented in any of a wide variety of forms. For example, some embodiments can be implemented as a computer-implemented method, a computer-readable memory medium, or a computer system. Other embodiments can be implemented using one or more custom-designed hardware devices such as ASICs. Still other embodiments can be implemented using one or more programmable hardware elements such as FPGAs.

[0147] In some embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable memory medium can be configured such that it stores program instructions and / or data, where the program instructions, if executed by a computer system, cause the computer system to perform a method, such as any of the method embodiments described herein, or any combination of the method embodiments described herein, or any subset of any of the method embodiments described herein, or any combination of such subsets.

[0148] In some embodiments, a device (e.g., an AP 104 or a STA 106) can be configured to include a processor (or a set of processors) and a memory medium, where the memory medium stores program instructions, where the processor is configured to read and execute the program instructions from the memory medium, where the program instructions are executable to implement any of the various method embodiments described herein (or any combination of the method embodiments described herein, or any subset of any of the method embodiments described herein, or any combination of such subsets). The device can be implemented in any of a wide variety of forms.

[0149] While the above embodiments have been described in considerable detail, many variations and modifications will now become apparent to those skilled in the art once fully understood. It is intended that the following claims be construed to include all such variations and modifications as falling within the true spirit and scope of the above disclosure.

Claims

1. A method for providing rapid feedback, the method comprising: Receive Physical Protocol Data Units (PPDUs) from wireless devices; as well as A block acknowledgment (BA) frame, including fast feedback information, is sent to the wireless device.

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: In response to receiving the PPDU and based at least in part on the detected interference pattern, it is determined that the fast feedback information is included in the BA frame.

3. The method according to claim 2, The detected interference patterns include stable interference across multiple received PPDUs.

4. The method according to claim 1, The PPDU includes a Fast Feedback Message Request in its physical header; and The fast feedback information request is indicated by a bit in the physical header of the PPDU.

5. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: Before receiving the PPDU, send an Add BA (ADDBA) request frame that includes a request to use fast feedback information; as well as Prior to receiving the PPDU, an ADDBA response frame is received that confirms the fast feedback information included in the BA frame.

6. The method according to claim 5, The ADDBA request includes a BA field with fast feedback to indicate the request for using fast feedback information.

7. The method according to claim 5, The ADDBA response includes a BA field with fast feedback to indicate confirmation that fast feedback information is included in the BA frame.

8. The method according to claim 6, The BA fields that provide fast feedback include at least one of the following: Indicates whether a bit of fast feedback is included in the BA frame; Indicates whether to include a negative acknowledgment (NACK) report bit in the BA frame when all Media Access Control (MAC) Protocol Data Units (MPDUs) fail; or A bit indicating whether the fast feedback information is immediate or delayed.

9. The method according to claim 8, The BA field with fast feedback also includes one or more subfields, wherein the one or more subfields include at least the Special Association Identifier (AID) - Business Identifier (TID) information for fast feedback in multi-station BA (MBA) frames.

10. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: Receive a Block Acknowledgment Request (BAR) frame before sending the BA frame, which includes fast feedback information; as well as This includes the BA frame, which is sent in response to receiving the BAR frame, providing rapid feedback information.

11. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: Before sending the BA frame including fast feedback information, an additional PPDU is received within a specified timeout period associated with the reception of the PPDU; as well as This includes the BA frame indicating that the fast feedback information is linked to the PPDU.

12. The method according to claim 11, further comprising: Wherein, to identify that the fast feedback is linked to the PPDU: The fast feedback information includes a serial number, which is included in the preamble of the PPDU; The BA frame, including the fast feedback information, is scrambled using a scrambling seed for scrambling the PPDU; or The rapid feedback information includes at least one of the following: The signature bits included in the preamble of the PPDU; The signature bit included in the data field of the PPDU; The PPDU identifier included in the Media Access Control (MAC) header of the PPDU; or The PPDU identifier is included in the Galois Counter Mode Protocol (GCMP) header of the PPDU.

13. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: Before receiving the PPDU, send an indication of when to support immediate and rapid feedback.

14. The method according to claim 13, The capability mentioned therein is defined as a threshold combining bandwidth and the number of spatial streams (Nss); and For bandwidth and Nss combinations exceeding the threshold, fast latency feedback is supported.

15. The method according to claim 1, The fast feedback information includes the effective signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR) per stream, which is based at least in part on a recommended modulation level applied to each stream and one or more of the following: Recommended modulation and decoding scheme (MCS) index or level; Anchor the MCS index or level and the recommended Unequal Modulation (UEQM) mode; Recommended number of spatial flows (Nss); Recommended MCS index or level for Nss used to receive and measure the PPDU; or For the MCS index or level and UEQM mode of Nss used to receive and measure the PPDU.

16. The method according to claim 1, The fast feedback information includes the effective signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR) margin per stream, which is defined as the effective SINR per stream minus the effective SINR required by the modulation and decoding scheme (MCS) on this stream, and one or more of the following: Recommended MCS index or level; Anchor the MCS index or level and the recommended Unequal Modulation (UEQM) mode; Recommended number of spatial flows (Nss); Recommended MCS index or level for Nss used to receive and measure the PPDU; Anchored MCS index or level and UEQM mode for Nss used to receive and measure the PPDU; The effective SINR per stream for the current MCS and Nss; or Effective SINR margin per stream for the current MCS and Nss.

17. The method according to claim 1, The fast feedback information includes the effective signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR) or SINR margin per stream for the reference modulation and decoding scheme (MCS) and the number of spatial streams (Nss). The effective SINR margin is at least partially based on the modulation level applied to each stream; The reference MCS is indicated as an incremental MCS or an incrementally anchored MCS; and The reference MCS is either increased or decreased from the current MCS level.

18. The method according to claim 1, The fast feedback information includes one or more of the interference mode or probe recommendation, and at least one bit indicating whether the fast feedback information is used directly for link adaptation or used as a probe recommendation; and The interference mode indicates whether the interference is relatively stable across multiple received PPDUs, frequently changing across the multiple received PPDUs, or a short burst of interference.

19. An apparatus comprising: Memory; as well as At least one processor, the at least one processor communicating with the memory and configured to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 18.

20. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing program instructions executable by processing circuitry of a wireless device to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 18.

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