Dynamic Channel Bandwidth Adjustment in WLAN Composite Channels

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional multi-channel allocation techniques in OFDM-based communication systems lack flexibility in modifying the bandwidth of composite communication channels, limiting data throughput and efficiency.

Innovation Solution

The method involves forming composite communication channels by duplicating control and data frames across multiple bandwidth portions, allowing dynamic adjustment of channel bandwidth based on channel status, and transmitting data frames during designated transmit opportunity periods (TXOP) using composite channels determined by idle channel conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If conventional multi-channel allocation techniques are used, then channel bandwidth is fixed, but data throughput and communication efficiency are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata throughputVSAvoidbandwidth flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic bandwidth adjustment by allowing composite channels to be formed with different bandwidths (e.g., 20 MHz, 40 MHz, 80 MHz) based on real-time channel conditions. The system can switch between fixed and variable bandwidth modes, enabling the communication channel to adapt its capacity according to available resources and interference levels, thereby resolving the contradiction between fixed allocation and flexible adaptation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the bandwidth parameter dynamically by modifying the channel width from fixed values to variable values. The system can adjust the bandwidth parameter based on channel quality, interference detection, and available spectrum, allowing optimization of data throughput while maintaining adaptability to different communication scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If fixed channel bandwidth is used, then system complexity is reduced, but communication efficiency is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication efficiencyVSAvoidchannel management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the available spectrum into multiple discrete channels (e.g., primary channel and secondary channels) that can be independently managed and combined. This segmentation allows the system to create composite channels with different bandwidths by selecting and combining appropriate segments, thereby achieving flexible bandwidth adjustment without requiring complete system redesign.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary channel detection and classification before establishing communication, identifying suitable channels based on interference levels and availability. This preliminary action enables the system to pre-determine optimal bandwidth configurations, reducing the complexity of real-time decision-making while maintaining high communication efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Productivity

If dynamic bandwidth adjustment is implemented, then data throughput is enhanced, but channel detection and measurement complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata throughputVSAvoidchannel bandwidth detection complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where receiving devices respond to bandwidth adjustments by confirming successful reception. The transmitting device uses these feedback signals to verify whether the adjusted bandwidth was properly detected and accepted, allowing iterative optimization of channel configuration while managing detection complexity through structured interaction protocols.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces complex manual channel measurement mechanisms with automated detection protocols embedded in the communication frames. Bandwidth information is encoded within control frames and acknowledged through standardized response protocols, substituting complex external measurement systems with integrated digital detection and verification mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentEP2580897B1Method and apparatus for determining channel bandwidth
Publication Date: 2018.08.08 MARVELL WORLD TRADE LTD
  • EP2580897B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2580897B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2580897B1 patent drawingFigure 3A~3D

AI summary

In a method implemented in a first communication device, a control frame having a bandwidth is generated. The control frame is transmitted via a first composite communication channel, wherein the first composite communication channel comprises a plurality of communication channels. A bandwidth of a response frame, received from a second communication device in response to transmitting the control frame, is determined. A second composite communication channel based on the bandwidth of the response frame is determined, wherein the second composite communication channel comprises at least one communication channel from the plurality of communication channels. One or more data frames are transmitted to the second communication device via the second composite communication channel.