Multi-AP Joint Transmission via Backhaul Packet Forwarding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems face challenges in efficiently implementing joint transmission mechanisms across non-collocated Access Points (APs) due to synchronization issues and beamforming complexities, leading to performance degradation in multi-user and multi-input multi-output (MIMO) scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A joint-transmission mechanism is introduced, where a primary AP forwards data packets to secondary APs via a backhaul link, using multi-AP trigger frames to coordinate simultaneous transmissions with precise PHY precoding, enabling efficient joint beamforming and packet identification across multiple APs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If joint transmission is implemented across non-collocated Access Points, then throughput is improved, but synchronization issues and beamforming complexities cause performance degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the primary AP prepare and forward packet identification information (such as sequence numbers or packet markers) to secondary APs before the actual joint transmission occurs. This pre-preparation enables secondary APs to correctly identify and synchronize packets during the simultaneous transmission, resolving the synchronization issue without compromising throughput.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the primary AP receives acknowledgment information from secondary APs about packet reception status. This feedback loop allows the primary AP to adjust transmission parameters and coordinate beamforming operations, ensuring synchronization is maintained while maximizing throughput across all participating APs.
2Productivity
If joint transmission is implemented across non-collocated Access Points, then throughput is improved, but beamforming complexities increase device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the beamforming operation by dividing the joint transmission into coordinated phases: packet preparation at the primary AP, packet forwarding to secondary APs, and synchronized transmission. This segmentation allows each AP to perform simplified beamforming operations rather than complex coordinated beamforming, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining throughput benefits.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces packet identification information as an intermediary element that mediates between the primary AP and secondary APs. This intermediary enables coordination of beamforming operations without requiring direct complex interaction between APs, simplifying the beamforming implementation while preserving the throughput advantages of joint transmission.
3Reliability
If packet identification is improved in joint transmission, then transmission reliability is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by embedding packet identification information directly into the packet headers during the preparation phase. This pre-embedding approach eliminates the need for complex post-transmission packet identification processes, achieving high reliability packet identification with minimal processing time overhead.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of packet identification by using efficient identification markers such as sequence numbers or packet markers that can be quickly processed. This parameter change enables reliable packet identification through simple comparison operations rather than complex analysis, reducing processing time while maintaining accuracy.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enhances data transmission efficiency and reliability by ensuring tight synchronization and correct beamforming, thereby improving throughput and reducing errors in multi-user MIMO joint transmissions.
Implementation Method 1
An Access Point (AP) may be configured to transmit Downlink (DL) transmissions to one or more wireless communication stations (STAs)
Implementation Method 2
using multi-AP trigger frames to coordinate simultaneous transmissions with precise PHY precoding, enabling efficient joint beamforming
Data Source
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AI summary
For example, a first Access Point (AP) may be configured to send a plurality of data packets to a second AP via a backhaul link between the first AP and the second AP; to determine a plurality of identified packets from the plurality of data packets for a joint transmission to a non-AP wireless communication station (STA) associated with the first AP; to transmit a multi-AP trigger frame to trigger the joint transmission including transmission of the plurality of identified packets in a first transmission from the first AP and in a second transmission from the second AP, wherein the multi-AP trigger frame includes payload-signaling information configured to signal to the second AP that a payload of the second transmission is to include the plurality of identified packets; and to transmit the first transmission after the multi-AP trigger frame, wherein the first transmission includes the plurality of identified packets.