802.11n Frame Aggregation Priority Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

The frame aggregation method in 802.11n wireless LAN systems can negatively impact data transmission throughput for peripheral devices due to increased communication frame length and band occupation time, particularly affecting Quality of Service (QoS) control, especially when Legacy devices perform high-priority tasks like video transmission.

Innovation Solution

A communication apparatus that discriminates priority information among devices and adjusts communication frame lengths based on this information to ensure high communication quality for priority devices, using frame formats like Legacy, Mixed, or Greenfield modes to optimize band usage and reduce frame aggregation time.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If frame aggregation method is used in 802.11n to improve throughput, then data transmission efficiency is improved, but band occupation time is prolonged and QoS for Legacy devices deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transmission throughputVSAvoidband occupation time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent dynamically adjusts the communication frame length based on real-time network conditions and QoS requirements. The 11n apparatus determines whether to use frame aggregation by evaluating current bandwidth usage, device priorities, and traffic types, thereby adaptively optimizing throughput while preventing excessive band occupation that would harm Legacy devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes key parameters including frame aggregation level, communication frame length, and transmission mode (Legacy/Mixed/Greenfield) based on network conditions. By adjusting these parameters dynamically, the system achieves high throughput when conditions permit while reducing frame length and band occupation time when QoS for Legacy devices requires it.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If communication frame length is increased through frame aggregation, then throughput is improved, but impact on Legacy devices increases and QoS control becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovethroughputVSAvoidimpact on Legacy devices
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies different frame formats and aggregation levels to different devices based on their priorities and capabilities. High-priority Legacy devices receiving video streams receive shorter frames with guaranteed QoS, while low-priority devices can utilize longer aggregated frames for bulk data transfer, thereby localizing the quality characteristics to match specific device needs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The 11n apparatus acts as an intermediary that mediates between throughput optimization and Legacy device protection. It monitors network conditions, determines appropriate frame lengths, and controls transmission parameters to balance the competing requirements of high throughput and minimal impact on Legacy devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If preamble length is increased for 11n frame formats, then communication capability is improved, but band occupation time is prolonged and Legacy device compatibility is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication capabilityVSAvoidband occupation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent dynamically selects between Legacy mode, Mixed mode, and Greenfield mode based on real-time conditions. When Legacy devices are active with high QoS requirements, the system uses Legacy mode with shorter preambles. When the network can support longer preambles and higher data rates are needed, it switches to Mixed or Greenfield modes, thereby adaptively balancing capability and time usage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS8817789B2Communication apparatus, communication apparatus control method, and computer program for causing computer to execute the control method
Publication Date: 2014.08.26 CANON KK
  • US8817789B2 patent drawing
  • US8817789B2 patent drawing
  • US8817789B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In 802.11n, the time during which the band is occupied is prolonged by the use of the frame aggregation method or in accordance with the type of communication frame, and this may influence communication of another apparatus. To solve this problem, a communication frame length (a communication frame to be used and the number of frames to be aggregated) is determined by taking account of priority information of a plurality of communication apparatuses.