Link Adaptation Feedback Mechanism for WLAN

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional link adaptation methods in communication networks are limited in addressing the complexities of network link conditions, leading to suboptimal communication performance and inefficiencies in adapting modulation and coding schemes to varying link characteristics.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a high efficiency link adaptation system that includes Modulation and Coding Scheme (MCS) Feedback (MFB) information in communication frames, allowing for unsolicited and solicited feedback, and enabling flexible adaptation of modulation, coding, and other signal parameters based on link conditions through the use of fields such as the unsolicited MFB field, MRQ field, and partial PPDU parameters.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional link adaptation methods are used, then the system maintains simplicity in implementation, but the communication performance and adaptability to varying link conditions deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelink adaptation capabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the link adaptation feedback mechanism into distinct components: solicited feedback (in response to explicit requests) and unsolicited feedback (initiated autonomously). This segmentation allows the system to implement sophisticated adaptation capabilities while managing complexity through structured, modular feedback processes. The feedback is further segmented into specific parameters such as MCS recommendations, channel quality indicators, and interference measurements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamic link adaptation by enabling feedback mechanisms that continuously adjust modulation and coding schemes based on real-time channel conditions. The system dynamically switches between solicited and unsolicited feedback modes, and adjusts MCS parameters dynamically rather than using fixed configurations. This dynamic approach allows the system to adapt to varying link conditions while maintaining manageable complexity through protocol-defined procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Productivity

If traditional link adaptation methods are used, then the system maintains ease of operation, but the data transmission rates and communication efficiency deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transmission rateVSAvoidoperation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements comprehensive feedback mechanisms where receiving devices send detailed link adaptation information back to transmitting devices. This feedback includes channel quality measurements, interference levels, and specific MCS recommendations. The feedback loop enables the system to automatically optimize transmission parameters based on actual channel conditions, achieving high data rates without manual intervention. The feedback is structured to provide actionable information while maintaining ease of operation through protocol-defined procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Reliability

If sophisticated link adaptation is implemented, then the communication performance improves, but the coordination complexity among diverse communication components worsens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication reliabilityVSAvoidcoordination complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal feedback framework that can operate across diverse communication scenarios and device types. The link adaptation mechanism is designed to be multi-functional, supporting both solicited and unsolicited feedback modes, and providing comprehensive channel information that can be applied to various modulation and coding schemes. This universal approach enables sophisticated adaptation while reducing coordination complexity by providing a standardized interface that works across different device types and communication scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS10687321B2Network communication link adaptation systems and methods
Publication Date: 2020.06.16 MEDIATEK INC
  • US10687321B2 patent drawing
  • US10687321B2 patent drawing
  • US10687321B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Presented systems and methods facilitate efficient and effective communication link adaptation. In one embodiment, a system comprises: a first communication device configured to forward link adaptation information, and a second communication component configured to receive the link adaptation information. The system is part of a wireless local area network (WLAN). The link adaptation information can include Modulation and Coding Scheme (MCS) Feed Back (MFB) related information in a communication frame. The communication frame can include a first field and a second field. The first field indicates the information is being forwarded as unsolicited MFB information or is associated with a solicitation request for the MFB information. The second first field indicates whether the information is MFB information or a request for MFB information.