Multi-Link Device TXOP Synchronization for IDC Interference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-link devices face performance degradation due to in-device coexistence (IDC) interference when simultaneously transmitting and receiving data over different frequency bands, such as the 5 GHz and 6 GHz bands, leading to reduced network throughput and reliability.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method to automatically synchronize transmission opportunities (TXOPs) across multiple wireless links by setting common back-off counters and delaying frame exchange sequences until all links are ready, using padding and carrier sense mechanisms to align slot boundaries and prevent simultaneous transmission and reception.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multi-link device operates simultaneously on multiple frequency bands to increase bandwidth, then network throughput is improved, but in-device coexistence interference occurs causing transmission errors and reduced reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the first wireless station delay its frame exchange sequence initiation until the second wireless station completes its back-off procedure and obtains TXOP. This advance timing adjustment prevents simultaneous transmission and reception, eliminating IDC interference before it can occur while still enabling multi-link operation for improved throughput
2Adaptability or versatility
If independent EDCA mechanism is used on each link with separate back-off counters, then link autonomy is maintained, but transmission synchronization between links is lost causing fairness issues and reduced multi-link operation efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the back-off control of multiple links by having the first wireless station wait for the second wireless station's back-off completion before initiating its own transmission. This coordination synchronizes TXOP acquisition across links, improving multi-link operation efficiency while each link maintains its independent EDCA parameters and autonomy
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention a computer-implemented process for automatically synchronizing TXOPs for a multi-link device (200), MLD, to improve wireless network performance and prevent IDC is depicted according to embodiments of the present invention. The process can be performed by a multi-link device (200) performing a multi-link operation, and the multi-link device (200) can act as a wireless access point or a wireless station. The MLD (200) includes a first wireless station (210), STA, associated with a fist wireless link and a second wireless STA (215) associated with a second wireless link. The MLD (200) can include more wireless STAs (225) for communicating over different wireless links.