Configurable Time Unit Resolution for Wireless Ranging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems face challenges in accurately measuring distance and range due to fixed resolution parameters in fine timing measurement (FTM) protocols, which are optimized for specific frequency ranges and may not be suitable for diverse operating modes like DMG, leading to reduced accuracy and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The system allows for signaling different resolutions of time units for FTM parameters, enabling more precise timing measurements by modifying existing message structures to support various frequency modes, such as DMG, without affecting compatibility with legacy devices or certification standards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If fixed resolution parameters are used in FTM protocols optimized for specific frequency ranges, then device complexity is reduced and compatibility is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates for diverse operating modes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the time unit resolution configurable rather than fixed. The system can dynamically select between different time unit resolutions (e.g., first resolution for 2.4GHz/5GHz bands, second resolution for DMG band) based on the operating frequency mode, thereby adapting the measurement precision to match the specific operational context while maintaining protocol flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of time unit resolution from a fixed value to a variable parameter that can be adjusted based on frequency mode. By introducing different resolution values for different frequency ranges and allowing configuration through frame signaling, the system achieves high measurement precision across diverse operating modes without requiring completely separate protocols for each band
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed resolution parameters are used in FTM protocols, then ease of operation is improved and legacy compatibility is maintained, but adaptability to different frequency modes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by assigning different time unit resolutions to different frequency modes locally. Instead of using a single resolution globally, the system tailors the resolution to each specific frequency band's requirements (coarser for 2.4/5GHz, finer for DMG), allowing each operating mode to have optimized parameters while maintaining a unified protocol framework
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves universality by designing a single FTM protocol that can operate across multiple frequency modes with different resolutions. Through configuration signaling in frames, the same protocol structure adapts to serve multiple functions - supporting both legacy frequency modes and new DMG mode with appropriate precision levels, eliminating the need for separate protocols
3Measurement precision
If higher resolution time units are used for distance measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases due to more precise timing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by using higher resolution time units only when necessary - specifically for DMG band operations where millimeter-level precision is required. For legacy frequency modes, the system uses coarser time unit resolutions, avoiding the overhead of high-precision timing mechanisms and thus reducing unnecessary time consumption in ranging procedures
Data Source
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AI summary
Aspects of the present disclosure provide techniques for efficient ranging. According to certain aspects, techniques are provided to signal the use of different resolutions of time units for parameters to be used in a ranging procedure (502), such as a fine timing measurement (FTM) procedure.