Access Point Uplink Window Sizing for Collision Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
In wireless networks, especially those supporting M2M communications based on IEEE 802.11ah, the existing methods for determining the size of access windows do not efficiently manage uplink throughput due to excessive collisions among terminals, leading to decreased efficiency in both uplink and downlink transmissions.
Innovation Solution
A method is introduced to estimate the number of terminals attempting to access the uplink medium by measuring successful uplink slots and determining the size of subsequent access windows based on this estimation, ensuring an optimal balance between uplink and downlink slots to minimize collisions and maximize throughput.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the access window size is determined using existing methods, then the system structure is simple, but uplink throughput decreases due to excessive collisions among terminals
Solution Approach 1:
The access point measures the number of uplink access success slots in each access window and uses this feedback information to estimate the number of uplink access attempt terminals. This feedback mechanism enables the access point to dynamically adjust the access window size to optimize uplink throughput while reducing collisions.
Solution Approach 2:
The access point dynamically changes the access window size parameter based on the estimated number of uplink access attempt terminals. By adjusting this parameter in response to measured performance data, the system optimizes throughput without requiring complex predetermined configurations.
2Productivity
If the access window size is increased to reduce collisions, then uplink throughput improves, but downlink transmission efficiency decreases due to empty slots
Solution Approach 1:
The access window size is made dynamic rather than fixed. The access point continuously adjusts the access window size based on real-time measurements of uplink access success slots and estimated terminal counts, allowing the system to adapt to varying traffic conditions and optimize both uplink and downlink efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the access window size parameter to balance uplink and downlink slot allocations. By adjusting this parameter based on measured performance, the system prevents both excessive collisions (when window is too small) and empty slots (when window is too large), thereby optimizing overall throughput.
3Productivity
If fixed access window size is used, then system operation is simple, but collisions occur excessively reducing overall efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The access point performs self-adjustment by automatically measuring uplink access success slots and estimating the number of attempt terminals to determine the optimal access window size. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual configuration or complex external control while improving system efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from measuring uplink access success slots to automatically adjust the access window size. This closed-loop control enables the system to optimize efficiency without requiring complex manual management, as the access point autonomously responds to actual performance data.
Data Source
AI summary
Wireless network, access point, and terminal are disclosed. A method for determining a size of an access window performed in an access point in a wireless network may comprise estimating a number of terminals attempting to access uplink (hereafter, uplink access attempt terminals) in a first access window including at least one uplink slot which is allocated to the terminal or is randomly selected by the terminal so as to transmit uplink data; and determining a size of a second access window next to the first access window based on the estimated number of the uplink access attempt terminals.