EDMG Sync Field for WLAN Sensing Timing Alignment

The patent introduces a Sync field as an intermediary element within the EDMG multi-static sensing PPDU. This Sync field acts as a mediator that carries timing synchronization information to multiple sensing responders, enabling them to align their monostatic PPDU transmissions despite using different MCS. The Sync field receives timing information from the initiator and distributes synchronized timing references to all responders, thus resolving the timing misalignment caused by MCS diversity while preserving adaptability to different channel conditions.

The patent implements preliminary timing synchronization by transmitting the Sync field before the monostatic PPDU transmissions. The Sync field is sent in advance to provide timing references to all sensing responders, allowing them to pre-align their transmission timing. This preliminary action ensures that even though responders use different MCS adapted to their channel conditions, their transmissions are already synchronized in time, preventing interference and maintaining sensing accuracy.

The Sync field serves as a simplified intermediary mechanism that reduces system complexity compared to full coordination protocols. Instead of requiring complex inter-responder communication and coordination, the initiator simply embeds timing synchronization information in the Sync field within the downlink PPDU. Responders passively receive and apply this timing information without needing to exchange multiple coordination frames or perform complex synchronization algorithms, thus achieving timing alignment with minimal added complexity.

Each sensing responder autonomously processes the timing information received in the Sync field and independently aligns its own monostatic PPDU transmission timing. This self-service approach eliminates the need for centralized coordination of each responder's transmission schedule or complex inter-responder handshaking protocols. Each responder independently achieves timing synchronization based on the common reference provided in the Sync field, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining accurate timing alignment.