Multi-band Access Point Interference Coordination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-band operation schemes in wireless local area networks (WLANs) provide only basic functionality and are inadequate to meet the requirements of dense networks and robust high data rates, particularly in managing interference and resource allocation across different frequency bands.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a multi-band cluster system, where a Multi-band Member Access Point (MMAP) communicates with a Multi-band Control Access Point (MCAP) using one frequency band and associated stations using another, allowing for the transmission of interference reports and radio resource management information to optimize channel usage and reduce interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multi-band operation is implemented to support high data rates and coverage, then network performance is improved, but interference management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a coordination mechanism where access points in different bands act as intermediaries to manage interference. The 60 GHz band AP coordinates with 5 GHz band APs to identify and mitigate interfering signals, effectively mediating the interference problem between bands while maintaining high data rates.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback loops where interference measurements are continuously collected from STAs and reported back to access points. This feedback enables dynamic adjustment of beamforming vectors and power levels to optimize performance while managing interference across bands.
2Length of stationary object
If beamforming is used to extend coverage in 60 GHz band, then coverage range is improved, but susceptibility to interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different quality characteristics to different parts of the system. In the 60 GHz band, highly directional beamforming is used to concentrate energy and extend coverage, while in the 5 GHz band, omnidirectional or less directional transmission is used for robustness. This local differentiation allows each band to operate in its optimal mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a composite communication approach by combining 60 GHz directional beams with 5 GHz omnidirectional transmission. This composite strategy leverages the strengths of both bands - the high data rate and coverage extension of 60 GHz beamforming combined with the interference robustness of 5 GHz transmission.
3Productivity
If sectorized transmission is implemented to reduce interference, then network efficiency is improved, but coordination overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic sectorization where access points transmit in different directional sectors at different time intervals. This periodic action reduces interference by ensuring that simultaneous transmissions occur in different spatial directions, while the periodic nature allows for efficient coordination without continuous overhead.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus are disclosed for communicating in a multi-band cluster. A multi-band member access point (MMAP) may be capable of communicating with a multi-band control access point (MCAP) using a first frequency band, and capable of communicating with associated stations (STAs) using a second frequency band. The MMAP may transmit data in the second frequency band to the associated STA, may transmit a request for interference information in the second frequency band to at least one associated STA, may receive an interference report in the second frequency band from the at least one associated STA, may transmit information in the first frequency band to the MCAP, wherein the information is based on the interference report received from the at least one associated STA in the second frequency band, and may receive, from the MCAP in the first frequency band, information regarding radio resource management of the second frequency band.