Heterogeneous PHY Data Unit Multiplexing via Trigger Frames
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wireless networks struggle to support heterogeneous communications, where devices with varying capabilities cannot fully utilize the advanced features and resources of newer standards, leading to limited bandwidth utilization.
Innovation Solution
A wireless device with a network interface and processor that transmits trigger frame messages across multiple frequency bands to enable concurrent data unit transmissions from devices with different capabilities, using a combination of primary and secondary bands within a 320 MHz frequency bandwidth, allowing devices to tune to specific frequency segments and transmit data units efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a large bandwidth (e.g., 320 MHz) is allocated to support advanced features, then network throughput is improved, but legacy devices cannot fully utilize the available bandwidth and are limited to subsets
Solution Approach 1:
The 320 MHz bandwidth is divided into multiple 80 MHz segments (primary and secondary bands). Each segment can be independently allocated to different devices based on their capabilities. Legacy devices are assigned to segments they can handle (e.g., primary 80 MHz band), while advanced devices can access multiple segments including secondary bands, enabling both device types to operate efficiently within the large bandwidth.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces frequency domain segmentation as an additional dimension for resource allocation. Instead of a single shared channel, the system creates multiple frequency segments (primary band, first secondary band, second secondary band) that devices can access simultaneously. This dimensional expansion allows heterogeneous devices to coexist in the same network without interfering with each other.
2Productivity
If multiple trigger frame messages are transmitted concurrently in different frequency bands, then bandwidth utilization is improved, but devices must tune to specific frequency segments which increases complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The access point transmits channel announcement messages before the actual trigger frame messages. These announcement messages inform devices about the frequency band allocations and trigger frame locations in advance. This preliminary information allows devices to proactively tune to the correct frequency segments before data transmission begins, reducing the complexity of real-time frequency switching and improving overall system coordination.
3Adaptability or versatility
If trigger frame messages are transmitted in a single frequency band, then device compatibility is improved, but overall network throughput is limited by the bandwidth of that single band
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a universal communication framework where a single 320 MHz bandwidth can serve multiple device types simultaneously. The primary 80 MHz band provides universal compatibility for all devices, while secondary bands provide enhanced capacity for advanced devices. This multi-functional approach allows the same physical infrastructure to accommodate both legacy and modern devices without requiring separate networks.
Data Source
AI summary
A first wireless device communicates using a frequency bandwidth with multiple wireless devices, and is configured to concurrently transmit trigger frame messages for each of the multiple wireless devices within respective trigger frame frequency bands of the frequency bandwidth to trigger the multiple wireless devices to concurrently transmit respective data units to the first wireless devices within respective frequency segments of the frequency bandwidth.