HEW Master Station MU-RTS Trigger Frame Allocation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In wireless local-area networks (WLANs), efficient resource utilization is hindered by multiple devices competing for shared resources, leading to interference and difficulties in determining available resources, especially when legacy devices operate alongside newer protocols like IEEE 802.11ax.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method where a master station uses orthogonal frequency division multiple-access (OFDMA) and multi-user multiple-input multiple-output (MU-MIMO) techniques to manage bandwidth allocation dynamically, transmitting trigger frames and bandwidth availability reports to optimize resource usage across HEW and legacy devices, allowing for non-contention based access during designated HEW control periods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple devices share the same wireless resources, then resource utilization is improved, but interference increases and resource availability becomes difficult to determine
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the wireless spectrum into multiple sub-channels and divides the wireless medium into distinct resource units. Each device is allocated specific sub-channels or resource units, transforming the shared resource problem into a segmented allocation problem that reduces interference while maintaining high utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic resource allocation where the master station continuously adjusts sub-channel assignments and resource unit allocations based on real-time channel conditions, device requirements, and interference patterns. This dynamic adaptation optimizes resource utilization while managing interference levels.
2Productivity
If newer protocols (IEEE 802.11ax) operate alongside legacy devices, then bandwidth efficiency is improved, but compatibility and resource coordination become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal resource allocation framework where the master station manages both HEW and legacy devices using a unified set of procedures. The same sub-channel segmentation and trigger frame mechanisms serve multiple device types, reducing coordination complexity despite protocol differences.
Solution Approach 2:
The master station acts as an intermediary between HEW and legacy devices, translating resource allocation decisions into appropriate formats for each device type. It mediates resource sharing by coordinating uplink transmissions and managing channel access for both protocol types through centralized control.
3Loss of time
If dynamic bandwidth allocation is implemented, then response times are improved, but control overhead and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses trigger frames to announce upcoming resource allocations and bandwidth changes in advance. Devices receive preliminary notification of resource unit assignments and sub-channel allocations before actual transmissions begin, enabling fast response times without requiring complex real-time negotiation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where devices report channel conditions, buffer status, and resource availability to the master station. This feedback enables the master station to make informed dynamic allocation decisions, optimizing response times while keeping control overhead manageable through targeted information exchange.
Data Source
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AI summary
Methods, apparatuses, and computer readable media for MU-RTS and CTS are disclosed. An apparatus of a high-efficiency wireless local-area network (HEW) master station is disclosed. The HEW master station including processing circuitry configured to generate a packet to indicate a multi-user request-to-send (MU-RTS) and to indicate channels on which one or more HEW stations are to transmit a clear-to-send (CTS). The HEW master station further including a transceiver configured to transmit the packet to the one or more HEW stations, and receive clear-to-send responses to the packet on the one or more channels. An apparatus of a HEW station is also disclosed. The HEW station including circuitry configured to receive a packet that indicates a MU-RTS that indicates channels on which the HEW station is to transmit a CTS, and to determine whether to send the CTS.