Method and device for opportunistic multi access point coordination in wireless communication

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to method and device for performing Multi Access Point Coordination (MAPC). The method includes determining, by a first Access Point (AP) (102), occurrence of at least one of a plurality of MAPC scenarios based on a correlation of one or more network parameters of the first AP and one or more network parameters received from a second AP (104). Further, one of a plurality of MAPC techniques applicable for MAPC with the second AP is selected based on the determined at least one MAPC scenario. Subsequently, the MAPC is performed using the selected MAPC technique for sharing a Transmission Opportunity (TXOP) with the second AP. The present disclosure intelligently and opportunistically selects between the MAPC techniques based on a real-time network scenario for reducing interference.

Description

METHOD AND DEVICE FOR OPPORTUNISTIC MULTI ACCESS POINT COORDINATION IN WIRELESS COMMUNICATION

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to the field of wireless communications. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to method and device for opportunisticMulti Access Point Coordination (MAPC) in wireless communication.

[0002] The development of Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) technology has provided a means for electronic devices to establish internet connectivity utilizing a range of radio frequency bands, such as 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, 6 GHz, and 60 GHz. These WLAN technologies are defined by the IEEE 802.11 standards, which have been progressively updated to increase data rates, improve communication reliability, and expand network coverage.

[0003] Effective interference management is critical for high-performance Wi-Fi networks. The IEEE 802.11ax standard introduces Multi-Access Point Coordination (MAPC) as a solution for mitigating Co-Channel Interference (CCI). By enabling multiple APs to cooperate, MAPC facilitates smart management of interference.

[0004] Spatial Reuse (SR) is a technique used in wireless communications to increase network capacity by allowing simultaneous transmissions on the same channel within a certain geographic area. An SR-enabled device or Access Point (AP) may initiate a transmission even when another transmission is ongoing, provided the Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI) of the other transmission is below a predefined threshold. To prevent causing interference to the ongoing transmission, the AP may determine an appropriately low transmit power. This process requires the AP to be able to distinguish between transmissions originating from its own Basic Service Set (intra-BSS) and those from an Overlapping Basic Service Set (inter-BSS or OBSS).

[0005] However, non-coordinated SR presents several significant drawbacks. A key issue is that the AP's decision to transmit is based solely on the RSSI of the received signal from the transmitter, without any consideration for how this new transmission will affect the receiver(s) of the existing signal. Consequently, when one AP transmits at its maximum power, other APs may be forced to significantly reduce their power, leading to a very low Signal-To-Interference-Plus-Noise Ratio (SINR) for some Stations (STAs). Furthermore, if multiple APs independently decide to perform SR transmissions simultaneously, the cumulative interference may increase dramatically. This lack of centralized control on the number of concurrent SR transmissions limits the overall effectiveness of the technique.

[0006] To overcome the limitations of non-coordinated SR, the Coordinated Spatial Reuse (Co-SR) technique has been developed as a MAPC scheme. One of the key advantages of Co-SR is that it is a simple technique, relying solely on RSSI knowledge and avoiding the need for complex and computationally intensive Channel State Information (CSI). Another technique, the Coordinated Beamforming (Co-BF) technique, represents a more advanced MAPC approach, leveraging the capabilities of modern multi-antenna APs. Unlike Co-SR, Co-BF requires precise CSI to form directed beams and nulls, enabling more refined interference management. While both Co-SR and Co-BF offer distinct advantages in managing CCI, they are suited to different network conditions and hardware capabilities.

[0007] However, existing systems lack a dynamic mechanism to intelligently select between Co-SR, Co-BF, or other coordination techniques based on real-time network context. This limitation often leads to suboptimal performance, especially in heterogeneous or rapidly changing network environments.

[0008] The information disclosed in this background of the disclosure section is only for the enhancement of understanding of the general background of the disclosure and should not be taken as acknowledgment or any form of suggestion that this information forms prior art already known to a person skilled in the art.

[0009] The present disclosure relates to method and device for opportunisticMulti Access Point Coordination (MAPC) in wireless communication.

[0010] The technical objects to be achieved by various embodiments of the disclosure are not limited to the technical objects mentioned above, and other technical objects not mentioned may be considered by those skilled in the art from various embodiments of the disclosure to be described below.

[0011] Disclosed herein is a method of performing Multi Access Point Coordination (MAPC). The method includes determining, by a first Access Point (AP), occurrence of at least one of a plurality of MAPC scenarios based on a correlation of one or more network parameters of the first AP and one or more network parameters received from a second AP. Further, the method includes selecting, by the first AP, one of a plurality of MAPC techniques applicable for MAPC with the second AP, based on the determined at least one MAPC scenario. Subsequently, the method includes performing, by the first AP, the MAPC using the selected MAPC technique for sharing a Transmission Opportunity (TXOP) with the second AP.

[0012] Further, the present disclosure provides a device for performing Multi Access Point Coordination (MAPC). In an embodiment, the device may be an Access Point (AP) (also referred to as first AP). The first AP comprises a processor and a memory communicatively coupled to the processor. The memory may store the processor-executable instructions, which, on execution, cause the processor to determine occurrence of at least one of a plurality of MAPC scenarios based on a correlation of one or more network parameters of the first AP and one or more network parameters received from a second AP. Further, the processor selects one of a plurality of MAPC techniques applicable for MAPC with the second AP, based on the determined at least one MAPC scenario. Subsequently, the processor performs the MAPC using the selected MAPC technique for sharing a Transmission Opportunity (TXOP) with the second AP.

[0013] The above-described various embodiments of the disclosure are merely some of the preferred embodiments of the disclosure, and various embodiments reflecting the technical features of the disclosure may be derived and understood by those skilled in the art based on the following detailed description of the disclosure.

[0014] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.

[0015] The present disclosure may provide method and device for opportunisticMulti Access Point Coordination (MAPC) in wireless communication.

[0016] The effects that can be achieved through the disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned in the various embodiments, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0017] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate exemplary embodiments and, together with the description, explain the disclosed principles. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. The same numbers are used throughout the figures to reference like features and components. Some embodiments of system and / or methods in accordance with embodiments of the present subject matter are now described, by way of example only, and regarding the accompanying figures, in which:

[0018] Fig. 1 illustrates an exemplary wireless network for performing Multi Access Point coordination, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0019] Fig. 2 illustrates an exemplary block diagram of an Access Point in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0020] Fig. 3 illustrates an exemplary block diagram of a Station in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0021] Fig. 4A shows a detailed block diagram of the first AP, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0022] Fig. 4B shows a flowchart illustrating an exemplary scenario for selection of MAP coordination technique, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0023] Fig. 4C shows a flowchart illustrating an exemplary scenario for selection of MAP coordination technique, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0024] Fig. 4D shows a flowchart illustrating an exemplary scenario for selection of MAP coordination technique, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0025] Fig. 4E shows a flowchart illustrating an exemplary scenario for selection of MAP coordination technique, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0026] Fig. 4F shows a flowchart illustrating an exemplary scenario for selection of MAP coordination technique, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0027] Fig. 5 shows an exemplary flowchart illustrating a method of performing MAP coordination, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0028] It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that any block diagrams herein represent conceptual views of illustrative systems embodying the principles of the present subject matter. Similarly, it will be appreciated that any flow charts, flow diagrams, state transition diagrams, pseudo code, and the like represent various processes which may be substantially represented in computer readable medium and executed by a computer or processor, whether such computer or processor is explicitly shown.

[0029] In the present document, the word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any embodiment or implementation of the present subject matter described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.

[0030] While the disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiment thereof has been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail below. It should be understood, however, that it is not intended to limit the disclosure to the specific forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the disclosure.

[0031] The terms "comprises", "comprising", "includes", or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a setup, device, or method that comprises a list of components or steps does not include only those components or steps but may include other components or steps not expressly listed or inherent to such setup or device or method. In other words, one or more elements in a system or apparatus preceded by "comprises... a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the system or method.

[0032] Coordinated Spatial Reuse (Co-SR) technique, which has been developed as a Multi-Access Point Coordination (MAPC) scheme, enables multiple APs to transmit simultaneously on the same channel in a cooperative manner. In MAP framework, a single AP, designated as the coordinating AP, initiates the MAPC process after acquiring a Transmit Opportunity (TXOP). Other APs that are part of this coordinated transmission are referred to as coordinated APs. In Co-SR technique, multiple APs concurrently transmit while taking into account the known interference levels. The scheme relies on transmit power control to mitigate interference between OBSSs. A key advantage of Co-SR technique is its simplicity, as it requires only RSSI knowledge and does not necessitate the more complex and computationally intensive Channel State Information (CSI). Co-SR technique is a simple, effective method for enhancing network throughput and is a feature discussed in the IEEE 802.11be standard.

[0033] Coordinated Beamforming (Co-BF) technique is a more advanced MAPC technique that leverages the capabilities of modern multi-antenna APs. Beamforming, in general, is a signal processing method that directs a wireless signal towards a specific user, thereby increasing the signal strength in the desired direction and reducing interference in other directions. This technique improves data rates, coverage range, and overall system efficiency, allowing a greater number of devices to connect to the network simultaneously.

[0034] Co-BF technique further develops this concept by offering a framework for coordination across inter-BSS in the spatial domain. In this approach, each AP communicates with its associated STAs using Multi-User Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MU-MIMO). At the same time, the coordinating AP strategically employs unused spatial dimensions to form nulls in the radiation pattern, which are directed toward the STAs of neighboring APs. The Co-BF technique effectively silences the neighboring users, making them mutually invisible and greatly reducing OBSS interference.

[0035] Unlike Co-SR, Co-BF requires precise CSI to form the directed beams and nulls. This CSI for OBSS STAs may be obtained through a process known as multi-AP channel sounding. While this requirement increases the complexity of Co-BF compared to Co-SR, it enables a more precise and effective interference mitigation solution. It is essential to note that, despite the need for CSI, Co-BF does not necessitate joint data processing, as each STA transmits and receives data to and from a single AP. Co-BF has been extensively discussed as a key feature in the IEEE 802.11be standard.

[0036] Co-SR is a relatively simple mechanism that enhances spatial reuse by having coordinated APs reduce their transmit power to mitigate interference. Co-SR relies on readily available signal strength information, such as the RSSI, and does not require complex CSI. While its simplicity makes it easy to implement, the reliance on power reduction can be a significant disadvantage in highly dense environments. In scenarios with high interference levels, Co-SR may not be feasible as a coordinated transmission would not be allowed, or it would require such a significant power reduction that the resulting SINR would be too low for a successful transmission.

[0037] Co-BF, on the other hand, is a more sophisticated and powerful technique. It leverages multi-antenna capabilities to perform beamforming and null-steering. This allows an AP to precisely direct its transmission beam to its intended recipient while simultaneously creating a null in the direction of an interfering STA in the OBSS. This "nulling" capability effectively makes neighboring STAs mutually invisible, enabling concurrent transmissions at full power, even in scenarios where Co-SR would fail due to high interference. This results in significantly improved throughput and reduced latency. However, the advanced capabilities of Co-BF come at the cost of increased complexity, as it requires accurate and timely CSI from OBSS devices, which must be obtained through a multi-AP channel sounding process.

[0038] The conventional systems are typically configured to exclusively use either Co-SR or Co-BF. This fixed approach fails to adapt to the diverse and dynamic conditions of a modern wireless network. A wireless system relying solely on Co-SR would underperform in high-interference environments where Co-BF is the superior choice, while a wireless system exclusively using Co-BF would incur unnecessary complexity and overhead by continuously performing multi-AP channel sounding and processing CSI, even in low-interference scenarios where the simpler Co-SR would be more than adequate.

[0039] Therefore, there is a need for a solution that intelligently and opportunistically selects between the Co-SR technique and the Co-BF technique based on real-time network conditions. Though the MAPC techniques discussed in the present disclosure are the Co-SR technique and the Co-BF technique for clarity and explainability, the present disclosure is applicable to any MAPC n techniques and can opportunistically select between them.

[0040] The present disclosure provides a solution that overcomes the limitations of each individual technique, Co-SR and Co-BF, by introducing a dynamic and intelligent MAP coordination solution that opportunistically selects between Co-SR technique and Co-BF technique based on real-time network conditions. Unlike conventional systems that rigidly rely on either Co-SR or Co-BF, this approach adapts to the diverse and evolving demands of modern wireless environments for reducing interference.

[0041] By determining the MAPC scenarios and selecting the MAPC technique based on the determined scenario, the proposed solution ensures efficient coexistence among APs and scalability across various deployment models. In high-interference scenarios, Co-BF may be employed to enhance signal quality and throughput, while in low-interference conditions, the simpler Co-SR mechanism is used to reduce complexity and overhead. This context-aware decision-making enables the coordination of APs to optimize performance, resource utilization, and user experience across OBSSs.

[0042] The proposed solution avoids the continuous use of complex multi-AP channel sounding and CSI processing when unnecessary, thereby minimizing computational and signaling burdens by employing simpler coordination methods when appropriate.

[0043] In the following detailed description of the embodiments of the disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the disclosure may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The following description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.

[0044] Overview:

[0045] Spatial Reuse (SR) is a fundamental concept in wireless communication that enables multiple devices to transmit simultaneously on the same frequency channel without causing excessive interference. A device that transmits using SR must be able to (i) distinguish intra and inter-BSS transmissions. The device that transmits using SR must be able to (ii) transmit only if the Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) of the OBSS transmission is lower than threshold, and (iii) determine the low enough transmit power for the SR transmission to avoid interference with the ongoing transmission.

[0046] There are several issues associated with SR without coordination, which include the following:

[0047] (i) With 11ax SR, one Access Point (AP) can transmit at maximum power while other APs must reduce their transmit power. As a result, some STAs must experience very low Signal to Interference Noise Ratio (SINR).

[0048] (ii) An STA decides whether to use OBSS PD-based SR (whether to ignore an ongoing PPDU transmission) based only on RSSI from the Physical Protocol Data Unit (PPDU) transmitter, without considering how SR might affect the current PPDU receiver(s).

[0049] (iii) If multiple APs decide to simultaneously exploit OBSS PD-based SR, the interference level may significantly increase.

[0050] (iv) No control on the number of STAs that can simultaneously access the channel using OBSS PD-based SR.

[0051] Coordinated Spatial Reuse (Co-SR) is one of the MAPC schemes that enables parallel co-channel transmission from multiple APs, helps in improving throughput. Co-SR is also, discussed in 802.11be. The AP that hold the TXOP and initiates MAPC is referred as coordinating AP. An AP that is coordinated by the coordinating AP for MAPC us referred to as coordinated AP. In Co-SR, Multiple APs concurrently transmit multiple PPDUs on same channel, considering the known interference level. Transmit power control helps in mitigating OBSS Interference. RSSI knowledge alone is sufficient for power control in Co-SR. Co-SR does not require the channel state information (CSI), which makes it simple and easy to implement. Thus, considered as one of the key features for UHR SG & IEEE 802.11bn.

[0052] Beamforming is signal processing techniques used in wireless communication to direct a signal towards a specific device or location. By targeting the signal more towards intended user, beamforming provides following advantages:

[0053] ● Increases the signal strength in the desired direction.

[0054] ● Reduces interference in the other direction.

[0055] ● Provides better coverage range.

[0056] ● Provides enhanced data rate.

[0057] ● Improves the efficiency of the wireless communication systems.

[0058] The reduction in interference / focused transmission due to beamforming allows more devices to connect to the network simultaneously. Coordinated beamforming (Co-BF) further improves throughput in multiple basic service sets (BSSs) scenario by exploits the capability of modern multi-antenna APs to spatially multiplex their STAs and performing simultaneous transmission in multiple BSS on the same channel. Co-BF has been already extensively discussed in IEEE 80.11be. Null precoder is made using the OBSS channel measurement like H12 and H21 for interference handling. Co-BF provides a framework for inter-BSS spatial domain coordination by directing radiation beams towards its own user for service and creating nulls to mute neighbouring users. Unused spatial dimensions at each AP are utilized to nullify interference to overlapping BSS (OBSS) STAs.

[0059] For enabling Co-BF, each individual AP requires channel state information (CSI) for the STAs in the OBSS to perform interference cancellation which can be obtained via joint multi-AP channel sounding. Co-BF has been already been extensively discussed in TGbe, UHR SG, and TGbn. With Co-BF, each AP transmits in MU-MIMO mode to its associated STAs while placing nulls in the STAs of other APs. This makes the OBSS STAs mutually invisible. In Co-BF, precise beam towards target users helps in mitigating interference. Co-BF requires CSI, as RSSI alone is not sufficient, which increases its complexity. Co-BF does not require joint data processing as each STA transmits / receives data to / from a single AP.

[0060] The similarities and differences between Co-SR and Co-BF are discussed below: The key idea behind both of Co-SR and Co-BF schemes are: Coordination and interference mitigation. Both Co-SR and Co-BF are MAPC schemes and enable simultaneous transmission when the channel is occupied by OBSS. Both schemes potentially improves worst-case latency as a by-product. Thus, both are considered as key features for UHR SG & IEEE 80.11bn (WiFi-8). Co-BF leverages on the applications of beamforming and null steering capabilities whereas Co-SR takes the advantage of power control. Co-BF makes neighbouring STAs mutually invisible and thus allow transmissions at full power.

[0061] Co-SR is a simpler mechanisms compared to Co-BF because it requires only RSSI not the CSI, but it involves power reduction which might be disadvantageous in dense environment. Co-BF brings improvements in the scenario in which higher interference level would not allow Co-SR transmission. Co-BF is more complex compared to Co-SR due to the requirement of CSI but it makes devices in OBSS invisible to each other (because of the formation of precise beam and nulling), thus makes full spatial reuse and provides significantly improved throughput and reduced latency. Nulling capabilities of Co-BF enable concurrent transmissions without power reduction (relax channel access constraint). However, the application of radiation nulls requires CSI from OBSS devices as well.

[0062] However, in multi-AP (MAP) networks that support both coordinated spatial reuse (Co-SR) and coordinated beamforming (Co-BF), APs and non-AP STAs face the challenge of opportunistically selecting the most suitable technique to maximize throughput and minimize delay. According to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, the present subject matter describes a method for scenario based MAPC to opportunistically perform either Co-SR or Co-BF. To use scenario based Co-SR or Co-BF, five approaches which are considered, as given below:

[0063] ● Use Co-SR provided the received RSSI of OBSS PPDU is less that the OBSS PD threshold otherwise, use Co-BF.

[0064] ● Use of transmit beamforming in the downlink whereas Co-SR in the uplink (reduces complexity at low capability STAs).

[0065] ● Use of Co-SR in the downlink whereas receive beamforming in the uplink.

[0066] ● Use of Co-BF in highly dense scenario i.e. BSSs are close to each other (higher interference level) and Co-SR in less dense scenario i.e. BSSs are far from each other (Lower interference level).

[0067] ● Use of Co-BF in high frequency link i.e. 5 GHz and 6 GHz (less coverage, requires directional transmission) and Co-SR in low frequency link i.e. 2.4 GHz in case of multi-link operation.

[0068] In an embodiment, the present disclosure provides method for the opportunistic operation of Co-SR and Co-BF in WLAN systems. Both Co-SR and Co-BF can potentially enhance the throughput and reduce delay, but the use case may be different. In an embodiment, ways to perform selection are based on the following criteria:

[0069] ● Based on received RSSI of OBSS PPDU

[0070] - Use Co-SR provided the received RSSI of OBSS PPDU is less that the OBSS PD threshold otherwise, use Co-BF.

[0071] ● Based on uplink / downlink scenario

[0072] - Use of transmit beamforming at AP in the downlink whereas Cp-SR in the uplink (reduces complexity at low capability STAs).

[0073] - Use of Co-SR in the downlink whereas receive beamforming in the uplink.

[0074] ● Based on the user density

[0075] - Co-BF in highly dense scenario i.e. BSSs are close to each other (distance is closer than the reference distance d_ref), results in higher interference level and Co-SR in less dense scenario, i.e. BSSs are far from each other (distance is more compared to the reference distance d_ref), results in Lower interference level.

[0076] ● Based on operating frequency band in multi-link operation.

[0077] - Co-BF in high frequency bands i.e. 5 GHz and 6 GHz which have less coverage and requires beamforming for directional transmission to increase signal strength in a particular direction, and Co-SR in low frequency link i.e. 2.4 GHz.

[0078] In an embodiment, based on AP’s decision, AP / Non-AP STAs can opportunistically select Co-SR or transmit / receive Co-BF which results in better performance for its BSS. In an embodiment, the method includes using Co-SR, provided the received RSSI of OBSS PPDU is less that the OBSS PD threshold otherwise, use Co-BF.

[0079] - RSSI of OBSS PPDU < OBSS PD threshold use Co-SR

[0080] - RSSI of OBSS PPDU >= OBSS PD threshold use Co-BF

[0081] In case of Co-SR, maintain an OBSS_PD level and may adjust it based on the transmit power TX_PWR. In another embodiment, the method for the opportunistic operation of Co-SR and Co-BF is based on uplink / downlink scenarios. In an embodiment, the two scenarios are based on the type of transmission i.e. downlink and uplink. In scenario (1), using transmit beamforming in the downlink whereas Co-SR in the uplink (reduces complexity at low capability STAs). In scenario (2), use of Co-SR in the downlink whereas receive beamforming in the uplink.

[0082] In another embodiment, the method for the opportunistic operation of Co-SR and Co-BF is based on the distance between BSS. In an embodiment, the reference distance between the BSS (assume d_ref) is determined. Co-BF is used in highly dense scenario i.e. BSSs are close to each other (distance is closer than the reference distance d_ref), results in higher interference level. Co-SR is used in less dense scenario i.e. BSSs are far from each other (distance is more compared to the reference distance d_ref), there are large opportunity to get lower interference level from OBSS transmission.

[0083] In yet another embodiment, the method for the opportunistic operation of Co-SR and Co-BF is based on operating frequency bands in multi-link operation. In an embodiment, Co-BF may be used in high frequency bands i.e., 5 GHz and 6 GHz which have less coverage and requires beamforming for directional transmission to increase signal strength in a particular direction. Co-SR may be used in low frequency link, i.e., 2.4 GHz, which has comparatively less attenuation and more coverage.

[0084] Advantages of the present disclosure

[0085] According to this disclosure in Multi-AP (MAP) networks that support both coordinated spatial reuse (Co-SR) and coordinated beamforming (Co-BF), APs and non-AP STAs opportunistically select the most suitable technique to maximize throughput and minimize delay. This disclosure proposes a method for scenario-based MAPC to opportunistically perform either Co-SR or Co-BF, in such a way that, use of Co-SR whenever possible to reduce complexity and use Co-BF when Co-SR in not advantageous, to achieve higher throughput.

[0086] Referral numerals used in the specification are listed in the table 1.

[0087] [Table 1]

[0088]

[0089]

[0090] Fig. 1 illustrates an exemplary wireless network for performing Multi Access Point coordination, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0091] In an embodiment, the exemplary wireless network 100 may include at least two network infrastructure components, a first Access Point (AP) 102 and a second AP 104. An Access Point may refer to a network device that provides wireless access to a remote terminal. It is appreciated that, depending on the network type, other well-known terms may be used instead of "AP," such as "router" or "gateway." In an embodiment, the first AP 102 and the second AP 104 may be connected to a network 106, such as the Internet, a proprietary Internet Protocol (IP) network, or other data network. The first AP 102 may provide wireless access to the network 106 for a plurality of Stations (STAs) 110 and 112. Similarly, the second AP 104 may provide wireless access to the network 106 for STAs 114 and 116. A station may refer to a remote wireless equipment that wirelessly accesses an AP or contends for a wireless channel in a WLAN. Other well-known terms, such as "mobile station", "user equipment", or "user device", may be used interchangeably with "STA".

[0092] As shown in Fig. 1, the dashed-line circles 108a and 108b may represent the approximate coverage areas for the first AP 102 and second AP 104, respectively. These coverage areas are shown as approximately circular for the purposes of illustration and explanation only. It should be clearly understood that the coverage areas associated with APs may have other shapes, including irregular shapes, depending upon the configuration of the APs and variations in the radio environment.

[0093] The dotted lines in Fig. 1 illustrate the logical associations between the APs and their respective STAs, while the dashed lines connecting the APs and STAs represent the wireless communication links. The first AP 102 and the second AP 104, and the associated STAs 110-116, communicate with each other using wireless communication techniques, such as Wi-Fi or other WLAN communication protocols. It should be appreciated that the wireless network 100 may include any number of APs and any number of STAs in any suitable arrangement. For instance, the first AP 102 and the second AP 104 may communicate with any number of STAs and provide those STAs with wireless broadband access to the network 106.

[0094] It should be noted that the configuration of the wireless network 100 shown in Fig. 1 is provided for purposes of illustration and explanation only, and it should be understood that other embodiments of the wireless network 100 could be utilized without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0095] In an embodiment, the first AP 102 may perform MAPC with the second AP 104 to manage a shared wireless medium and share a Transmission Opportunity (TXOP). A TXOP is a defined period of time during which a wireless device has exclusive access to the wireless medium for transmitting data without having to contend for the channel again.

[0096] In some embodiments, MAPC may be performed by a centralized controller or network management software associated with the network 106. The centralized controller may collect data from all the APs and make real-time decisions regarding channel assignments, transmit power levels, and client steering to optimize network performance. In the present disclosure, MAPC is described primarily from the perspective of the first AP 102 for the purpose of explanation and clarity. However, this should not be construed as a limitation. The described functionality may be implemented by any AP in the network or by a centralized controller, depending on the specific embodiment.

[0097] In an embodiment, for performing MAPC, the first AP 102 may determine occurrence of at least one of a plurality of MAPC scenarios based on a correlation of one or more network parameters of the first AP 102 and one or more network parameters received from a second AP 104. The first AP 102 may select one of a plurality of MAPC techniques applicable for MAPC with the second AP 104, based on the determined at least one MAPC scenario. Subsequently, the first AP 102 may perform the MAPC using the selected MAPC technique for sharing the TXOP with the second AP 104.

[0098] Fig. 2 illustrates an exemplary block diagram of an AP (for example, the first AP 102) in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0099] In an embodiment, the first AP 102 may include multiple antennas, multiple Radio Frequency (RF) transceivers 202a through 202n, Transmit (TX) processing circuitry 204, and Receive (RX) processing circuitry 206. The first AP 102 may further include a controller / processor 208, a memory 210, and a backhaul / network interface 212.

[0100] In an embodiment, during a receive operation, the RF transceivers 202a-202n may receive incoming RF signals via the multiple antennas. These RF signals may be transmitted by various STAs in the wireless network 100. The RF transceivers 202a-202n may be configured to down-convert the incoming RF signals to generate Intermediate Frequency (IF) or baseband signals. These signals may then be sent to the RX processing circuitry 206, which processes the signals by, without limitation, filtering, decoding, and / or digitizing them to generate processed baseband signals. The processed baseband signals may be subsequently transmitted to the controller / processor 208 for further processing.

[0101] In an embodiment, during a transmit operation, the TX processing circuitry 204 may receive analog or digital data from the controller / processor 208. The TX processing circuitry 204 may be configured to, without limitation, encode, multiplex, and / or digitize the outgoing baseband data to generate processed baseband or IF signals. The RF transceivers 202a-202n may receive these outgoing processed basebands or IF signals from the TX processing circuitry 204 and up-convert them to RF signals, which may then be transmitted via the multiple antennas.

[0102] In an embodiment, the controller / processor 208 may include one or more processors or other processing devices that control the overall operation of the AP 102. For example, the controller / processor 208 can control the reception of signals and the transmission of signals by the RF transceivers 202a-202n, the RX processing circuitry 206, and the TX processing circuitry 204. The controller / processor 208 may also be configured to support advanced wireless communication functions, such as beamforming, where outgoing signals from the multiple antennas are weighted differently to effectively steer the signals in a desired direction. The controller / processor 208 may also be capable of executing programs and other processes resident in the memory 210, such as an operating system.

[0103] In an embodiment, the backhaul / network interface 212 may be coupled to the controller / processor 208 and allow the AP 102 to communicate with other devices or systems over a backhaul connection or a wider network. The memory 210 may be coupled to the controller / processor 208 and may include various types of memory, such as a Random-Access Memory (RAM) and a Read-Only Memory (ROM).

[0104] It should be appreciated that various changes may be made to the configuration shown in FIG. 2. For example, the first AP 102 may also include any number of the components shown. As a particular example, the first AP 102 may include multiple instances of TX processing circuitry 204 and RX processing circuitry 206, or alternatively, only a single antenna and RF transceiver path. In some embodiments, various components could also be combined, further subdivided, or omitted, and additional components could be added according to particular needs. The embodiment of the first AP 102 explained through FIG. 2 is for purposes of illustration only and does not limit the scope of this disclosure to any particular implementation of an AP.

[0105] Fig. 3 illustrates an exemplary block diagram of a STA in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0106] In an embodiment, the STA (for example, STA 110) may include at least one antenna, a Radio Frequency (RF) transceiver 306, Transmit (TX) processing circuitry 308, a microphone 310, and Receive (RX) processing circuitry 304. The STA may include a speaker 302, a processor 312, an Input / Output (I / O) interface 314, an input device 322, a display 324, and a memory 316. The memory 316 may include an Operating System (OS) 318 and one or more applications 320.

[0107] In an embodiment, during a receive operation, the RF transceiver 306 may receive an incoming RF signal from the antenna, which may be transmitted by an AP in the wireless network 100.

[0108] In an embodiment, the RF transceiver 306 may be configured to down-convert the incoming RF signal to generate an IF or baseband signal. In an embodiment, the IF or baseband signal may be sent to the RX processing circuitry 304, which generates a processed baseband signal by, without limitation, filtering, decoding, and / or digitizing the signal. The processed baseband signal may then be transmitted to the speaker 302 (e.g., for voice data) or to the processor 312 for further processing (e.g., for web browsing data).

[0109] In an embodiment, during a transmit operation, the TX processing circuitry 308 may receive analog or digital voice data from the microphone 310 or other outgoing baseband data (such as web data or e-mail) from the processor 312. The TX processing circuitry 308 may be configured to, without limitation, encode, multiplex, and / or digitize the outgoing baseband data to generate a processed baseband or IF signal. The RF transceiver 306 may receive the outgoing processed signal from the TX processing circuitry 308 and up-converts it to an RF signal that is transmitted via the antenna.

[0110] The processor 312 may include one or more processors and may be configured to execute the OS program 318 stored in the memory 316 in order to control the overall operation of the STA. In one such operation, the processor 312 may control the reception of signals and the transmission of signals by the RF transceiver 306, the RX processing circuitry 304, and the TX processing circuitry 308. The processor 312 may also execute other processes and applications 320 resident in the memory 316, such as operations for detecting interference from a neighboring Basic Service Set (BSS) and informing the associated AP of the interference.

[0111] In an embodiment, the I / O interface 314 may be coupled to the processor 312 and provide the STA with the ability to connect to other devices. The input device 322 (e.g., a touchscreen or keypad) and the display 324 (e.g., a liquid crystal display) are also coupled to the processor 312, enabling a user to interact with the STA. The memory 316 may be coupled to the processor 312 and can include various types of memory, such as a random-access memory (RAM) and a Flash or other read-only memory (ROM).

[0112] Fig. 3 illustrates one example of STA; various changes may be made. For example, various components may be combined, further subdivided, or omitted, and additional components could be added according to particular needs.

[0113] The STA may also be configured with multiple antennas for MIMO communication or may not include voice communication capabilities. The processor 312 could be divided into multiple processors, such as one or more Central Processing Units (CPUs) and one or more Graphics Processing Units (GPUs). In an embodiment, the STA illustrated in Fig. 3 is for purposes of illustration only, and the STAs 110, 112, 114, and 116 of Fig. 1 may have the same or a similar configuration. However, it should be appreciated that STAs come in a wide variety of configurations, and Fig. 3 does not limit the scope of this disclosure to any particular implementation of a STA.

[0114] Fig. 4A shows a detailed block diagram of the first AP 102, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0115] In some implementations, the processor 208 may be configured to perform one or more functions of the first AP 102, using data 402 and modules 412 of the first AP 102. In an embodiment, the memory 210 may store the data 402. In an embodiment, the I / O Interface 401 may facilitate communication between the first AP 102 and external devices or components, as well as enable user interaction.

[0116] In some embodiments, the data 402 stored in the memory 210 may include, without limitation, parameters of first AP 404, parameters of second AP 406, determined data 408, and miscellaneous data 410. In some implementations, the data 402 may be stored within the memory 210 in the form of various data structures. Additionally, the data 402 may be organized using data models, such as relational or hierarchical data models. The miscellaneous data 410 may include various temporary data and files generated by the modules 412.

[0117] In an embodiment, the parameters of first AP 404 may be one or more network parameters of the first AP 102. In an embodiment, the one or more network parameters of the first AP 102 may include, without limitation, a type of transmission being performed by the first AP 102, position of the first AP 102, and operating frequency bands in a multi-link operation of the first AP 102. In an embodiment, the type of transmission being performed by the first AP 102 may be a network parameter that indicates, without limitation, transmission directionality. That is, whether the communication is an uplink (STA to AP) or a downlink (AP to STA).

[0118] In an embodiment, the position of the first AP 102 may be the physical location of the first AP 102 in the wireless network 100. In an embodiment, the position of the first AP 102 may be determined by the first AP 102, without limitation, through a pre-configured network topology map, positioning system (e.g., GPS, triangulation), or other location estimation techniques.

[0119] In an embodiment, the operating frequency bands of the first AP 102 may be the spectrum used for multi-link operation. In an exemplary embodiment, the first AP 102 may utilize a low-frequency band (e.g., 2.4 GHz) and one or more high-frequency bands (e.g., 5 GHz and 6 GHz) for communication.

[0120] In an embodiment, the parameters of a second AP 406 may be one or more network parameters received from the second AP 104. In an embodiment, the one or more network parameters received from the second AP 104 may include, without limitation, the Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) of the second AP 104, the position of the second AP 104, and the operating frequency bands in a multi-link operation of the second AP 104.

[0121] In an embodiment, the RSSI of the second AP 104 may be determined at the Station (e.g., STA 114). The RSSI value may provide a measure of the signal power from the second AP 104 as received at the station. In an exemplary embodiment, for determining the RSSI value, each AP within the coordination group, including the first AP 102 and the second AP 104 (coordinated AP), may periodically transmit beacon frames. These beacon frames may be transmitted at a known, maximum power level. In the MAP framework, a coordinating AP is the AP that initiates the MAPC process after acquiring the TXOP. The coordinating AP manages and orchestrates the coordinated transmission among multiple APs. The other APs (for example, the second AP 104) involved in this coordinated transmission are referred to as coordinated APs, which follow the instructions of the coordinating AP to ensure synchronized communication. A station, such as STA 110, periodically scans or monitors for beacon frames from all APs within its range. Upon receiving the beacon frame, the STA's Physical Layer (PHY) may measure the power of the received signal and report this as an RSSI value. When the transmit power is known and constant, the RSSI value may be used to estimate the path loss between the AP and the STA. For example, STA 110 may receive a beacon from the first AP 102 with an RSSI of -50 dBm and a beacon from the second AP 104 with an RSSI of -75 dBm. This indicates a stronger signal (RSSI) from AP 102. In an embodiment, the station associated with the second AP 104 (e.g., STA 116 or STA 114) may report its determined RSSI values to the second AP 104. The second AP 104 may then forward this collected RSSI information from its associated stations to the first AP 102. This ensures the first AP (coordinating AP) 102 has a comprehensive set of RSSI data from all STAs in the coordination group.

[0122] In an embodiment, the position of the second AP 104 may be a network parameter that provides the physical location of the second AP 104 within the network. In an embodiment, the position of the second AP 104 may be determined, without limitation, through a pre-configured network topology map, positioning system (e.g., GPS, triangulation), or other location estimation techniques.

[0123] In an embodiment, the operating frequency bands of the second AP 104 may specify the frequency channels used by the second AP 104 for its multi-link communications. In an exemplary embodiment, the second AP 104 may utilize a low-frequency band (e.g., 2.4 GHz) and one or more high-frequency bands (e.g., 5 GHz and 6 GHz) for communication.

[0124] In an embodiment, the determined data 408 may be the determined occurrence of at least one of a plurality of MAPC scenarios. In an embodiment, the occurrence of at least one of the plurality of MAPC scenarios may be determined based on, without limitation, the received RSSI value of the second AP 104, the type of transmission being performed by the first AP 102, distance between the first AP 102 and the second AP 104, and the operating frequency bands in a multi-link operation. For example, a MAPC scenario may be a high-interference scenario, which may be determined based on the received RSSI value of the second AP 104. When the received RSSI value of the second AP 104 falls below a predefined threshold, it suggests the presence of significant noise or interference in the environment. Another MAPC scenario may be an uplink transmission scenario, determined based on the type of transmission being performed by the first AP 102, that is, when the transmission type is uplink. Another MAPC scenario may be a downlink transmission scenario, determined when the transmission type is downlink.

[0125] A further example may be a highly dense scenario, determined based on the distance between the first AP 102 and the second AP 104. In other words, close proximity between the first AP 102 and the second AP 104 may indicate a densely deployed network that benefits from tighter coordination. Another scenario may be a low dense scenario, where the APs are farther apart, indicating a less congested environment. Additionally, a multi-link frequency scenario may be determined based on the operating frequency bands in a multi-link operation. A high-frequency scenario may be identified when the first AP 102 operates in bands such as 5 GHz or 6 GHz, which typically offer shorter coverage ranges and are more susceptible to directional transmission requirements. Conversely, a low-frequency scenario may be determined when the first AP 102 operates in bands such as 2.4 GHz, which provide broader coverage and are more resilient to obstacles.

[0126] In an embodiment, the data 402 may be processed by the modules 412 of the first AP 102. In some implementations, the modules 412 may be communicatively coupled to the processor 208 for performing one or more functions of the first AP 102. In an implementation, the modules 412 may include, without limitation, a transceiver module 414, a determining module 416, a selecting module 418, a performing module 420, and miscellaneous modules 422.

[0127] As used herein, the term module may refer to an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), an electronic circuit, a hardware processor (shared, dedicated, or group) and memory that execute one or more software or firmware programs, a combinational logic circuit, and / or other suitable components that provide the described functionality. In an implementation, each of the modules may be configured as stand-alone hardware computing units. In an embodiment, the miscellaneous modules 422 may be used to perform various miscellaneous functionalities on the first AP 102. It will be appreciated that, such modules may be represented as a single module or a combination of different modules.

[0128] In an embodiment, the transceiver module 414 may be configured to receive and transmit radio RF signals over a wireless medium. In an embodiment, the transceiver module 414 may be configured to receive data from stations (e.g., STA 110, STA 112) and the one or more network parameters of the second AP 104. In an embodiment, the transceiver module 414 may be configured to transmit instructions and other data to the second AP 104, for example, to communicate the selected MAPC technique and to instruct the second AP 104 on a specific action, such as adjusting its transmit power or exchanging Channel State Information (CSI). The CSI refers to detailed information about the channel characteristics between the transmitter and receiver, including amplitude, phase, and spatial properties across multiple antennas. CSI is typically obtained through channel sounding procedures, where one AP transmits known reference signals (e.g., sounding frames), and the receiving AP or STA measures the channel response. These measurements are then fed back to the transmitting AP, allowing it to construct a beamforming matrix that aligns the transmitted signal with the spatial characteristics of the channel. For example, AP 102 may transmit sounding frames to STA 110, which has two receive antennas. STA 110 measures the channel response and reports CSI back to AP 102. If AP 102 also has two transmit antennas, the CSI for a given subcarrier may be represented as a 2×2 complex matrix such as:

[0129]

[0130] Each element in the matrix captures both the amplitude and phase of the channel between a specific transmit-receive antenna pair. These values may then be used to compute antenna beamforming weights.

[0131] In an embodiment, the determining module 416 may be configured to determine the occurrence of at least one of a plurality of MAPC scenarios based on a correlation of one or more network parameters of the first AP 102 and the one or more network parameters received from the second AP 104.

[0132] In an embodiment, the occurrence of at least one of the plurality of MAPC scenarios may be determined based on, without limitation, the received RSSI value of the second AP 104, the type of transmission being performed by the first AP 102, the distance between the first AP 102 and the second AP 104, and the operating frequency bands in a multi-link operation. Based on the correlation of one or more network parameters of the first AP 102 and the one or more network parameters received from the second AP 104, the determining module 416 may determine a specific scenario.

[0133] The examples provided in the present disclosure are solely for the purpose of explanation and clarity. However, these examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure. The occurrence of other scenarios may also be determined by the determining module 416 using different determining criteria.

[0134] In an embodiment, the determining module 416 may be configured to determine the occurrence of at least one of a plurality of MAPC scenarios. For example, the determined MAPC scenario may be the high-interference scenario, which may be determined based on the received RSSI value of the second AP 104. For instance, the high-interference scenario may be determined when the received RSSI value from the second AP 104 falls below a predefined threshold, suggesting the presence of significant noise or interference in the environment. The determining module 416 may determine the occurrence of the low-interference scenario when the RSSI value is above the threshold, indicating a cleaner channel condition. Similarly, the determining module 416 may determine the occurrence of another MAPC scenario based on the type of transmission being performed by the first AP 102. If the transmission type is uplink, an uplink transmission scenario may be determined. Similarly, a downlink transmission scenario may be determined when the transmission type is downlink.

[0135] In an exemplary embodiment, determining module 416 may, based on the distance between the first AP 102 and the second AP 104, determine a network density scenario, which describes how close the BSS and OBSS are based on the positional information of the APs. If the distance (the distance between the BSS and OBSS may be referred to as dBSS) between the first AP 102 and the second AP 104 is less than a predefined reference distance dref, a highly dense scenario may be identified, indicating a higher likelihood of interference. If the distance exceeds dref a less dense scenario may be identified, indicating a lower likelihood of interference. In an exemplary embodiment, the predefined reference distance dref, may be specified in meters.

[0136] In an embodiment, the frequency-specific scenario may be determined based on the operating frequency bands in a multi-link operation. For example, a high-frequency scenario may be determined when the APs operate in bands such as 5 GHz or 6 GHz, which typically offer limited coverage and require directional transmission due to higher path loss. Alternatively, a low-frequency scenario may be identified when the APs operate in bands such as 2.4 GHz, which provide broader coverage and are more resilient to obstacles.

[0137] In an embodiment, the selecting module 418 may be configured to select one of a plurality of MAPC techniques applicable for coordination with the second AP 104, based on the scenario determined by the determining module 416. In an embodiment, for selecting one of the plurality of MAPC techniques, the selecting module 418 may analyze the determined at least one scenario of the plurality of scenarios based on a predefined selection criteria corresponding to the determined at least one scenario. That is, the selecting module 418 may analyze the determined scenario against the predefined selection criteria corresponding to that scenario.

[0138] In an embodiment, the predefined selection criteria may include, without limitation, predefined thresholds, capability indicators, or environmental constraints. The examples provided below are solely for the purpose of explanation and clarity. However, these examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the disclosure.

[0139] Exemplary scenario 1: Selection of MAPC technique for high-interference scenario and low-interference scenario.

[0140] As illustrated in Fig. 4B, the selecting module 418 may analyze the received RSSI value against the predefined threshold. If the RSSI value is less than the predefined threshold, the selecting module 418 may select Co-SR. Conversely, if the RSSI value is not less than the predefined threshold, the selecting module 418 may select Co-BF. That is, the RSSI value less than the predefined threshold indicates a low-interference environment, due to which the selecting module 418 may select the Co-SR technique. In a low-interference environment Co-SR technique is selected by the selecting module 418, because the transmissions from the two APs are less likely to interfere with each other. Therefore, the Co-SR technique enables simultaneous transmissions and improves spatial reuse efficiency.

[0141] Alternatively, if the received RSSI value of the second AP 104 is equal to or exceeds the predefined threshold, it indicates a high-interference environment. In a high-interference environment, the selecting module 418 may select the Co-BF technique as the MAPC technique. A high RSSI value may indicate that the two APs are physically close, making their transmissions more likely to interfere. The Co-BF technique is selected by the selecting module 418 to coordinate the transmit power and antenna phase of both APs to actively mitigate the interference. By directing the energy of the signal, the first AP 102 may create "nulls" in the direction of the second AP 104, ensuring that the intended signal reaches the STA without being corrupted.

[0142] Exemplary scenario 2: Selection of MAPC technique for downlink scenario.

[0143] As illustrated in Fig. 4C, the selecting module 418 may analyze the type of transmission being performed by the first AP 102. The selecting module 418 may check whether the type of transmission is a downlink transmission or an uplink transmission. If the transmission is a downlink transmission, the selecting module 418 follows the "Yes" path and selects the Co-SR technique as the MAPC technique at the first AP 102 for downlink. However, if the transmission is not downlink (i.e., uplink), the selecting module 418 follows the "No" path, leading to the selection of Co-SR at the STA in uplink. The selecting module 418 selects Co-SR at the first AP 102 and the STA to reduce complexity at the first AP 102 and the STA, respectively. Selecting the Co-SR technique as the MAPC technique reduces signaling overhead and coordination efforts between the AP and STA, leading to more efficient resource utilization.

[0144] Exemplary scenario 3: Selection of MAPC technique for uplink scenario.

[0145] As illustrated in Fig. 4D, the selecting module 418 checks the type of transmission being performed. If the transmission is a downlink transmission, the selecting module 418 follows the "Yes" path and selects the Co-BF technique at the first AP 102 in the downlink. If the transmission is not a downlink transmission (i.e., uplink), the selecting module 418 follows the "No" path and selects Co-SR at the STA. In this case, the selecting module 418 selects Co-BF as the MAPC technique at the first AP 102, since the first AP 102 is the transmitting device in the downlink. The first AP 102 may leverage its advanced antenna array for performing the complex Co-BF technique.

[0146] Exemplary scenario 4: Selection of MAPC technique for highly dense scenario and low dense scenarios.

[0147] As illustrated in Fig. 4E, the selection of MAPC technique is based on a comparison between the dBSSand dref. If the distance dBSSis less than the reference distance dref, indicating a highly dense environment, the selecting module 418 selects the Co-BF technique as the MAPC technique. Conversely, if the distance is not less than the reference distance, signifying a less dense environment, the selecting module 418 selects the Co-SR technique as the MAPC technique. In a highly dense environment, the Co-BF technique is selected by the selecting module 418 because it focuses the signal into a narrow beam, directing energy precisely to the intended receiver or STA. This minimizes interference with other nearby STAs in crowded or highly dense environments. By concentrating the power, the Co-BF technique improves signal quality and overall network capacity in dense areas. Conversely, in a less dense environment, the Co-SR technique is selected because there is less risk of interference between the APs and the STAs.

[0148] Exemplary scenario 5: Selection of MAPC technique for frequency-specific scenario.

[0149] As illustrated in Fig. 4F, the selecting module 418 identifies the operating bands in a multi-link operation. If the operating band is low frequency (2.4 GHz), which offers broader coverage, the selecting module 418 selects Co-SR. Conversely, if the operating band is, for instance, a higher frequency band like 5 GHz or 6 GHz that provides more limited coverage and is better suited for directional transmission, the selecting module 418 selects Co-BF. In a low-frequency scenario, the Co-SR technique is selected by the selecting module 418 because the low-frequency bands offer wider coverage and better signal penetration through obstacles. The selecting module 418 selects the Co-SR technique to leverage this broad coverage to serve multiple, dispersed STAs simultaneously without a high risk of interference, thereby maximizing the use of the shared spectrum across a larger area. In a high-frequency scenario, the Co-BF technique is selected, as the low-frequency bands are more susceptible to signal attenuation and have shorter transmission ranges. The Co-BF technique compensates for these limitations by concentrating the signal's energy, which extends the effective range and improves the signal-to-noise ratio.

[0150] In an embodiment, the performing module 420 may perform the MAPC using the selected MAPC technique for sharing the TXOP with the second AP 104. The selected MAPC technique, by the selecting module 418, may guide the coordination behavior between the first AP 102 and the second AP 104 during the TXOP period.

[0151] In an embodiment, when the selected MAPC technique is Co-SR, the performing module 420 may further control the transmit power of the second AP 104. By adjusting the transmit power, the first AP 102 ensures that transmissions from the second AP 104 remain within acceptable interference limits, thereby enabling concurrent transmissions and improving spatial reuse efficiency. For example, if STA 110 is associated with the first AP 102 and STA 114 is associated with the second AP 104, and both STAs are located in adjacent rooms separated by a wall, the first AP 102 may instruct the second AP 104 to reduce its transmit power by a predefined margin. For instance, the first AP 102 may be configured with a transmit power of 20 dBm and the second AP 104 with a transmit power of 18 dBm. To perform the Co-SR coordination technique, the first AP 102 instructs the second AP 104 to reduce its transmit power by a predefined margin, for instance, 6 dB. Consequently, the second AP 104 lowers its transmit power to 12 dBm.

[0152] In an embodiment, when the selected MAPC technique is Co-BF, the performing module 420 may facilitate the exchange of CSI between the first AP 102 and the second AP 104. In an embodiment, the performing module 420 uses the CSI to configure beamforming weights and transmission directions, thereby enhancing signal quality and reducing interference. For example, if STA 110 is associated with the first AP 102 and STA 114 is associated with the second AP 104, both operating on the same channel, the performing module 420 may coordinate CSI feedback so that each AP (first AP 102 and second AP 104) steers its beam toward its own associated STA while placing a null in the direction of the neighboring STA. In this case, the first AP 102 may apply beamforming weights to direct its transmission toward STA 110 while suppressing leakage toward STA 114, and the second AP 104 may apply complementary weights to serve STA 114 while minimizing interference at STA 110. The performing module 420 may perform MAPC using, without limitation, the Co-SR technique or the Co-BF technique for sharing the TXOP with the second AP 104. Thus, the present disclosure provides a dynamic and intelligent MAPC solution that opportunistically selects between the Co-SR technique and the Co-BF technique based on real-time network conditions for performing MAPC. A most suitable MAPC technique is selected for a given scenario to optimize network performance and reduce interference. Only when the selected MAPC technique is Co-BF, the performing module 420 may facilitate the exchange of CSI between the first AP 102 and the second AP 104, thereby reducing the complexity and overhead during a MAPC.

[0153] Fig. 5 shows an exemplary flowchart illustrating a method of performing MAPC, using a processor 208 of the first AP 102. The method 500 may be described in the general context of computer executable instructions. Generally, computer executable instructions can include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, procedures, modules, and functions, which perform specific functions or implement specific abstract data types.

[0154] The order in which the method 500 is described is not intended to be construed as a limitation, and any number of the described method blocks can be combined in any order to implement the method. Additionally, individual blocks may be deleted from the methods without departing from the scope of the subject matter described herein. Furthermore, the method can be implemented in any suitable hardware, software, firmware, or combination thereof.

[0155] At block 502, the method 500 includes determining, by a processor 208, occurrence of at least one of a plurality of MAPC scenarios based on a correlation of one or more network parameters of the first AP 102 and one or more network parameters received from a second AP 104. In an embodiment, the first AP 102 is a coordinating AP, and the second AP 104 is a coordinated AP. In an embodiment, the one or more network parameters of the first AP may include at least one of a type of transmission being performed by the first AP 102, position of the first AP 102, and operating frequency bands in a multi-link operation of the first AP 102. In an embodiment, the one or more network parameters received from the second AP 104 may include at least one of RSSI of the second AP 104, position of the second AP 104, and operating frequency bands in a multi-link operation of the second AP 104.

[0156] In an embodiment, the processor 208 may determine the occurrence of at least one of the plurality of MAPC scenarios is determined based on at least one of, received RSSI value of the second AP, type of transmission being performed by the first AP 102, distance between the first AP 102 and the second AP 104, and operating frequency bands in a multi-link operation.

[0157] At block 504, the method 500 includes selecting, by the processor 208, one of a plurality of MAPC techniques applicable for MAPC with the second AP 104, based on the determined at least one MAPC scenario. In an embodiment, the plurality of MAPC techniques may include at least one of Co-SR technique and Co-BF technique. In an embodiment, for selecting one of the plurality of MAPC techniques the processor 208 may analyze the determined at least one scenario of the plurality of scenarios based on a predefined selection criteria corresponding to the determined at least one scenario. The processor 208 may select one of the plurality of MAPC techniques applicable for the determined at least one scenario based on the analysis.

[0158] At block 506, the method 500 includes performing, by the processor 208, the MAPC using the selected MAPC technique for sharing a TXOP with the second AP 104. In an embodiment, when the selected MAPC technique is a Co-SR technique, the processor 208 may further control, transmit power of the second AP 104 for performing the MAPC. In an embodiment, when the selected MAPC technique is a Co-BF technique, the processor may exchange CSI with the second AP for performing the MAPC.

[0159] Some advantages of the embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated herein

[0160] The present disclosure provides a solution that intelligently and opportunistically selects between the Co-SR technique and the Co-BF technique based on real-time network conditions.

[0161] The present disclosure provides a dynamic and intelligent MAPC solution that opportunistically selects between the Co-SR technique and the Co-BF technique based on real-time network conditions. This opportunistic selection allows the wireless network to optimize network performance and reduce interference across a wide range of scenarios. By intelligently choosing the appropriate coordination technique for each unique scenario, the solution ensures more efficient use of the wireless medium, leading to improved throughput, better signal quality, and a more robust and reliable user experience.

[0162] By determining the MAPC scenarios and selecting the MAPC technique based on the determined scenario, the proposed solution ensures efficient coexistence among APs and scalability across various deployment models. In high-interference scenarios, Co-BF may be employed to enhance signal quality and throughput, while in low-interference conditions, the simpler Co-SR mechanism is used to reduce complexity and overhead. This context-aware decision-making enables the coordination of access points to optimize performance, resource utilization, and user experience across OBSSs.

[0163] The proposed solution avoids the continuous use of complex multi-AP channel sounding and CSI processing when unnecessary, thereby minimizing computational and signaling burdens by employing simpler coordination methods when appropriate.

[0164] In light of the technical advancements provided by the disclosed method, the claimed steps, as discussed above, are not routine, conventional, or well-known aspects in the art, as the claimed steps provide the aforesaid solutions to the technical problems existing in the conventional technologies. Further, the claimed steps clearly bring an improvement in the functioning of the system itself, as the claimed steps provide a technical solution to a technical problem.

[0165] The terms "an embodiment", "embodiment", "embodiments", "the embodiment", "the embodiments", "one or more embodiments", "some embodiments", and "one embodiment" mean "one or more (but not all) embodiments of the present disclosure" unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0166] The terms "including", "comprising", "having" and variations thereof mean "including but not limited to", unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0167] The enumerated listing of items does not imply that any or all the items are mutually exclusive, unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms "a", "an" and "the" mean "one or more", unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0168] A description of an embodiment with several components in communication with each other does not imply that all such components are required. On the contrary, a variety of optional components are described to illustrate the wide variety of possible embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0169] When a single device or article is described herein, it will be clear that more than one device / article (whether they cooperate) may be used in place of a single device / article. Similarly, where more than one device / article is described herein (whether they cooperate), it will be clear that a single device / article may be used in place of the more than one device / article or a different number of devices / articles　may be used instead of the shown number of devices or programs. The functionality and / or features of a device may be alternatively embodied by one or more other devices which are not explicitly described as having such functionality / features. Thus, other embodiments of the present disclosure need not include the device itself.

[0170] Finally, the language used in the specification has been principally selected for readability and instructional purposes, and it may not have been selected to delineate or circumscribe the inventive subject matter. It is therefore intended that the scope of the present disclosure be limited not by this detailed description, but rather by any claims that issue on an application based hereon. Accordingly, the embodiments of the present disclosure are intended to be illustrative, but not limiting, of the scope of the present disclosure , which is set forth in the following claims.

[0171] While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.

Claims

1.A method performed by a first access point (AP) in a wireless local access network, the method comprising:determining occurrence of at least one of a plurality of multi access point coordination (MAPC) scenarios based on a correlation of one or more network parameters of the first AP and one or more network parameters received from a second AP;selecting one of a plurality of MAPC techniques applicable for MAPC with the second AP, based on the determined at least one MAPC scenario; andperforming the MAPC using the selected MAPC technique for sharing a transmission opportunity (TXOP) with the second AP.2.The method of claim 1, wherein the first AP is a coordinating AP and the second AP is a coordinated AP.3.The method of claim 1, wherein the plurality of MAPC techniques comprises at least one of a coordinated spatial reuse (Co-SR) technique or a coordinated beamforming (Co-BF) technique.4.The method of claim 1, wherein the one or more network parameters of the first AP comprises at least one of a type of transmission being performed by the first AP, a position of the first AP, or operating frequency bands in a multi-link operation of the first AP.5.The method of claim 1, wherein the one or more network parameters received from the second AP comprises at least one of a received signal strength indicator (RSSI) of the second AP, a position of the second AP, or operating frequency bands in a multi-link operation of the second AP.6.The method of claim 1, wherein the occurrence of at least one of the plurality of MAPC scenarios is determined based on at least one of:a received RSSI value of the second AP,a type of transmission being performed by the first AP,a distance between the first AP and the second AP, oroperating frequency bands in a multi-link operation.7.The method of claim 1, wherein selecting one of the plurality of MAPC techniques comprises:analyzing the determined at least one scenario of the plurality of scenarios based on a predefined selection criteria corresponding to the determined at least one scenario; andselecting one of the plurality of MAPC techniques applicable for the determined at least one scenario based on the analysis.8.The method of claim 1, further comprising controlling transmit power of the second AP for performing the MAPC, in case that the selected MAPC technique is a Co-SR technique.9.The method of claim 1, further comprising channel state information (CSI) with the second AP for performing the MAPC, in case that the selected MAPC technique is a Co-BF technique.10.A first access point (AP) in a wireless local access network, the first AP comprising:at least one transceiver;at least one processor communicatively coupled to the at least one transceiver; andat least one memory, communicatively coupled to the at least one processor, storing instructions executable by the at least one processor individually or in any combination to cause the first AP to:determine occurrence of at least one of a plurality of multi access point coordination (MAPC) scenarios based on a correlation of one or more network parameters of the first AP and one or more network parameters received from a second AP;select one of a plurality of MAPC techniques applicable for MAPC with the second AP, based on the determined at least one MAPC scenario; andperform the MAPC using the selected MAPC technique for sharing a transmission opportunity (TXOP) with the second AP.11.The first AP of claim 10, wherein the first AP (102) is a coordinating AP and the second AP (104) is a coordinated AP, andwherein the plurality of MAPC techniques comprises at least one of a coordinated spatial Reuse (Co-SR) technique or a coordinated beamforming (Co-BF) technique.12.The first AP of claim 10, wherein the one or more network parameters of the first AP comprises at least one of a type of transmission being performed by the first AP, a position of the first AP, or operating frequency bands in a multi-link operation of the first AP, andwherein the one or more network parameters received from the second AP comprises at least one of a received signal strength indicator (RSSI) of the second AP, a position of the second AP, or operating frequency bands in a multi-link operation of the second AP (104).13.The first AP of claim 10, wherein the occurrence of at least one of the plurality of MAPC scenarios is determined based on at least one of:a received RSSI value of the second AP,a type of transmission being performed by the first AP,a distance between the first AP and the second AP, oroperating frequency bands in a multi-link operation.14.The first AP of claim 10, wherein, to select one of the plurality of MAPC techniques, the instructions cause the first AP to:analyze the determined at least one scenario of the plurality of scenarios based on a predefined selection criteria corresponding to the determined at least one scenario; andselect one of the plurality of MAPC techniques applicable for the determined at least one scenario based on the analysis.15.The first AP of claim 10, wherein the instructions cause the first AP to:control, transmit power of the second AP for performing the MAPC, in case that the selected MAPC technique is a Co-SR technique; andexchange channel state information (CSI) with the second AP for performing the MAPC, in case that the selected MAPC technique is a Co-BF technique.

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