Multi-Frequency Superframe Slotting for Wireless Bandwidth Balancing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing home network systems face inefficiencies in bandwidth allocation and reliability due to the use of fixed superframe modes that do not adapt to the diverse communication needs of devices operating at different frequency bands and protocols, leading to potential traffic jams and reduced wireless range.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a dynamic superframe slotting technique that allocates slots dynamically across multiple frequency bands within a single superframe, allowing devices to communicate using different protocols at varying frequency bands, thereby optimizing bandwidth and reducing traffic congestion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a fixed superframe mode is used to allocate slots for wireless communication, then the network structure is simple and easy to manage, but bandwidth allocation efficiency deteriorates and traffic congestion occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic superframe slotting where the hub device can dynamically allocate and adjust time slots within a superframe based on real-time network conditions and device requirements. This allows the superframe structure to adapt flexibly to varying traffic demands while maintaining overall system organization, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and bandwidth efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of slot allocation from fixed to dynamic by allowing the hub device to modify slot positions, durations, and assignments based on network conditions. This parameter flexibility enables efficient bandwidth utilization while keeping the superframe concept intact, balancing simplicity and productivity.
2Device complexity
If devices communicate at a single frequency band, then the system is simpler to manage, but wireless range and reliability deteriorate due to interference and limited bandwidth
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces frequency diversity by allowing devices to communicate across multiple frequency bands (e.g., 2.4 GHz and sub-1 GHz) within the same superframe structure. This adds a frequency dimension to the communication system, enabling devices to switch bands for improved range and reliability while maintaining structured slot-based management.
Solution Approach 2:
The hub device is designed to support multiple frequency bands and protocols within a single superframe allocation system. This multi-functionality allows the same slotting mechanism to operate across different frequency bands, improving reliability without requiring separate management systems for each band.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple protocols are supported at the same frequency band, then protocol versatility is improved, but interference increases and communication reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the superframe into distinct time slots, each dedicated to specific protocols or frequency bands. This temporal segmentation allows multiple protocols to coexist without interference by allocating specific time windows for each protocol type, maintaining versatility while ensuring reliable communication within each segment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically assigns protocols to different time slots and frequency bands based on current communication needs. This dynamic allocation allows the system to support multiple protocols simultaneously while minimizing interference by separating them in time and frequency domains, balancing versatility and reliability.
4Productivity
If time-division multiplexing is used to allocate communication slots, then bandwidth allocation is improved, but traffic congestion still occurs during peak periods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds frequency diversity as another dimension to time-division multiplexing by allowing simultaneous superframes at different frequency bands. When traffic congestion occurs in one band, devices can be allocated slots in another band, providing load balancing and maintaining reliability under peak conditions while preserving efficient bandwidth allocation.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes processing circuitry configured to output a first superframe configured in an initial superframe mode that allocates each slot of a plurality of slots for wireless communication to a first protocol at a first frequency band, a second protocol at the first frequency band, or a third protocol at the first frequency band. The processing circuitry is also configured to output a second superframe configured in a multi-frequency superframe mode that allocates: i) at least one slot of a plurality of slots for wireless communication to the first protocol, the second protocol, or the third protocol at the first frequency band, and ii) at least one slot of the plurality of slots for wireless communication to the first protocol, the second protocol, or the third protocol at the second frequency band.