Multi-AP Coordination via Overlapping Channel Inquiry Frames
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Solution Overview
Problem
Efficient implementation of multi-AP coordination in a multi-AP system is still an open issue, particularly in ensuring optimal channel overlap and resource allocation for enhanced throughput in wireless communication systems.
Innovation Solution
A wireless communication method where a first Access Point (AP) initiates multi-AP coordination by transmitting a frame to inquire about the participation of a second AP, with specific channel overlap conditions ensuring efficient resource utilization and coordinated transmission phases for multi-AP coordinated DL/UL OFDMA or MU-MIMO transmissions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multi-AP coordination is implemented with channel overlap, then system throughput is improved, but resource allocation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of channel configuration by allowing overlapping operating channels between APs. Specifically, the first AP operates on a first operating channel and the second AP operates on a second operating channel that overlaps with the first, enabling coordinated transmissions that improve system throughput while managing complexity through structured frame-based coordination
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the coordination process into distinct phases: a preparation phase where capability information and channel conditions are exchanged through structured frames, and a coordinated transmission phase where actual multi-AP transmissions occur. This segmentation manages resource allocation complexity by breaking down the overall process into manageable, standardized steps
2Productivity
If multi-AP coordination is implemented, then resource utilization efficiency is improved, but implementation difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal coordination framework that can be applied across different multi-AP scenarios. The preparation frame and coordination mechanism are designed to be general-purpose, supporting various coordination types (downlink, uplink, different channel configurations) through a single standardized approach, thereby reducing implementation difficulty through reusability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces structured preparation frames and coordination messages as intermediaries between APs. These standardized frames serve as mediators that carry capability information, channel conditions, and coordination decisions, simplifying the interaction between APs and reducing implementation difficulty by providing a predefined communication protocol
3Reliability
If channel overlap is allowed between APs, then coordination effectiveness is improved, but channel interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where APs exchange capability information and channel condition data through preparation frames during the preparation phase. This feedback allows APs to make informed coordination decisions, adjusting their transmissions to maximize effectiveness while managing interference through knowledge of overlapping channel conditions and neighbor AP capabilities
Data Source
AI summary
A wireless communication method is applied in a first Access Point (AP) initiating a multi-AP coordination. The method includes: transmitting a first frame to a second AP. The first frame is used for inquiring about whether the second AP intends to participate in the multi-AP coordination. At least a part of a second operating channel of the second AP overlaps with a first operating channel of the first AP.