Multi-Link Wireless Apparatus Channel Contention Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
In wireless networks, the coexistence of devices with different capabilities, such as legacy devices and multi-link capable devices, poses challenges in maintaining performance and preventing data frame loss due to channel contention and reservation conflicts.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method for a wireless network that operates on multiple channels, switching between operating modes to manage channel contention and transmission based on successful contention on multiple channels, ensuring data frames are transmitted on the appropriate channel while avoiding conflicts with legacy devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multi-link capable devices transmit data frames on multiple channels simultaneously, then transmission efficiency is improved, but channel contention conflicts with legacy devices occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic switching between operating modes (first operating mode for multi-link transmission and second operating mode for legacy compatibility) based on the presence of legacy devices in the wireless network. The apparatus monitors network conditions and adapts its transmission strategy in real-time, transitioning between modes to optimize both efficiency and compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the transmission parameter of operating mode based on network conditions. When legacy devices are detected, the system switches to the second operating mode that uses single-channel transmission with modified contention mechanisms. When only multi-link capable devices are present, the system uses the first operating mode for parallel multi-channel transmission.
2Speed
If devices operate in first operating mode for multi-link transmission, then transmission speed is improved, but data frame loss occurs due to reservation conflicts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the apparatus monitors transmission success and detects legacy devices in the network. Based on this feedback, the system adjusts its operating mode and transmission strategy, switching to legacy-compatible modes when conflicts are detected to prevent data frame loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary detection of legacy devices and network conditions before initiating transmission. The apparatus checks for the presence of legacy devices and determines the appropriate operating mode in advance, preventing reservation conflicts and data frame loss before they occur.
3Adaptability or versatility
If devices switch to second operating mode for legacy compatibility, then coexistence with legacy devices is improved, but transmission efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the operating mode dynamic and adaptable based on the actual network composition. The system automatically detects whether legacy devices are present and switches between efficient multi-link mode and compatible single-link mode accordingly, optimizing the balance between efficiency and compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal apparatus that can operate in multiple modes (first operating mode for multi-link transmission and second operating mode for legacy compatibility). This multi-functionality allows the same device to serve both modern and legacy networks, providing broad adaptability across different wireless network environments.
Data Source
AI summary
Method for channel contention and data frame transmission in a wireless network. Said method for an apparatus of a first wireless network comprises: operating the apparatus on at least a first channel and a second channel of the first wireless network; while performing said operating in a first operating mode to transmit a first data frame to a receiver apparatus of the first wireless network, contending (202) simultaneously on both the first channel and the second channel and transmitting (206, 208) the first data frame on the one of the first channel and second channel where said contending is first successful; switching from the first operating mode to a second operating mode; while operating in the second operating mode to transmit a second data frame to the receiver apparatus, contending (212) simultaneously on both the first channel and the second channel and transmitting (216, 218, 220) the second data frame to the receiver apparatus according to the following conditions: in response to successful contention on the first channel before successful contention on the second channel, transmitting the second data frame to the receiver apparatus on the first channel; and in response to successful contention on the second channel before successful contention on the first channel, transmitting the second data frame on the second channel if the contention becomes successful also on the first channel or if the first channel is reserved to an apparatus of a second wireless network different from the first wireless network while the second data frame is transmitted.