Wireless AP Node Priority Configuration for Channel Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communications networks face issues with uplink and downlink throughput imbalance and resource distribution fairness between different networks operating on the same Radio Frequency (RF) channel, particularly due to the limitations of the Distributed Coordination Function (DCF) mechanism.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method where wireless Access Point (AP) nodes can configure different priority levels for accessing the RF channel based on negotiation and trigger requirements, allowing for inter-AP prioritization to manage radio resource usage effectively, thereby addressing the imbalance and fairness issues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If DCF mechanism is used for channel access, then robustness and simplicity are improved, but uplink and downlink throughput imbalance occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the channel access parameters by introducing priority levels that modify the backoff behavior. High-priority APs use a backoff counter with smaller maximum values and different freezing rules compared to low-priority APs, thereby adjusting the throughput distribution without sacrificing the robustness of the DCF mechanism
2Ease of operation
If DCF mechanism is used for channel access, then ease of operation is improved, but resource distribution fairness between different networks deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by allowing different APs to have different priority levels and corresponding backoff parameters. Each AP can be configured with specific quality of service parameters tailored to its needs, enabling fair resource distribution across different networks while maintaining the overall simplicity of the DCF operation
3Productivity
If priority levels are configured for APs, then throughput balance and resource fairness are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring priority levels and backoff parameters for each AP before channel access occurs. The high-priority AP is predetermined to use specific backoff freezing rules, eliminating the need for complex real-time negotiations or dynamic adjustments during operation
Data Source
AI summary
A first wireless Access Point (AP) node 102 and a method therein for controlling radio resource usage. The first wireless AP node is arranged to have a first Radio Frequency (RF) coverage area 102a that is at least partly overlapping with a second RF coverage area 104a of a second wireless AP node 104. The first and second wireless AP nodes are arranged to operate on the same RF channel. The method comprises configuring a first priority level of the first wireless AP node in relation to a second priority level of the second wireless AP node, which first and second priority levels are priority levels for accessing the RF channel. The method further comprises transmitting, to a wireless device 108 associated with the first wireless AP node, data via the RF channel in dependence of the first priority level. Thereby, the radio resource usage is controlled. According to some embodiments, the priority level is set based on negotiations between the first and second wireless AP nodes. According to other embodiments, the priority level is set based on communication between the first wireless AP node and a management node 110.