Client-Selectable Transmit Power in Trigger MPDU

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Solution Overview

Problem

In wireless local area networks (WLANs), client stations face interference issues when using transmit power levels indicated by access points, especially when operating both WLAN and non-WLAN interfaces simultaneously, leading to inefficient multi-user transmissions.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus where a communication device generates a trigger medium access control protocol data unit (MPDU) with a transmit power indication that allows the client station to select its own transmit power level independently, reducing interference by using parameters from non-WLAN interfaces.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the access point indicates a transmit power level for the client station, then the transmission can be controlled, but interference occurs when the client station uses both WLAN and non-WLAN interfaces simultaneously

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransmission controlVSAvoidinterference
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the transmit power level dynamic and client-selectable rather than fixed and AP-indicated. The trigger frame includes a power level indication field that can be set to different values, allowing the client station to dynamically choose the appropriate power level based on its current operational state and interference conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of transmit power level from being predetermined by the access point to being selectable by the client station. The trigger frame mechanism allows the power level parameter to be adjusted based on client station needs, resolving the interference issue while maintaining transmission control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Extent of automation

If the client station uses transmit power levels indicated by the access point, then the network can manage power, but the client station cannot optimize for simultaneous multi-interface operation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork power managementVSAvoidmulti-interface optimization
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables the client station to self-select the transmit power level based on its own operational requirements. The trigger frame provides power level indications, and the client station independently determines which power level to use, allowing it to optimize for simultaneous multi-interface operation without requiring continuous network intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system transitions from static, network-controlled power levels to dynamic, client-selected power levels. The trigger frame mechanism allows the power level to be adjusted in real-time based on the client station's specific needs, enhancing adaptability while maintaining network management capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Device complexity

If a fixed transmit power level is used for all clients, then the system is simple to manage, but transmission efficiency decreases in multi-user scenarios

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower level managementVSAvoidtransmission efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the power level management approach by providing individual power level indications for different clients through the trigger frame. Instead of using a single fixed power level for all clients, the system segments the power control into client-specific settings, enabling optimized transmission efficiency for each user while maintaining manageable system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes from a uniform fixed power level parameter to variable client-specific power level parameters. The trigger frame includes power level indication fields that can be differently configured for different clients, allowing the system to optimize transmission efficiency for each user without significantly increasing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS10849080B1Trigger MPDU for client-selectable transmit power
Publication Date: 2020.11.24 MARVELL ASIA PTE LTD
  • US10849080B1 patent drawing
  • US10849080B1 patent drawing
  • US10849080B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A method is described. A trigger medium access control protocol data unit (MPDU) is generated at a first communication device. The trigger MPDU is configured to solicit a second communication device to transmit a trigger-based data unit to the first communication device. A transmit power indication in the trigger MPDU is set to indicate that a transmit power level of the trigger-based data unit is to be selected by the second communication device. The trigger MPDU is transmitted from the first communication device to the second communication device.