Multi-Link NAV Setting for WLAN Collision Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
In wireless LAN systems, particularly those supporting multiple links, existing methods fail to efficiently manage network allocation vectors (NAV) during multi-link transmissions, leading to potential signal collisions between transmitting and receiving stations.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for setting a network allocation vector (NAV) in a wireless LAN system, where a receiving station can set different NAVs based on the signal transmission from a transmitting station, preventing collisions by distinguishing between signals received through aggregated links and ensuring efficient signal transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a receiving STA sets NAV for only the first link where signal is detected, then device complexity is reduced, but signal collision may occur on the second link because the transmitting STA cannot simultaneously transmit and receive on multiple links
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the NAV setting operation into two distinct parts: detecting signals on the first link and separately setting NAV for both the first and second links. This segmentation allows the receiving STA to independently manage NAV settings for each link based on signal detection on any one link, preventing collision while maintaining organized complexity management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by setting the NAV for the second link in advance based on signal detection from the first link. Before the transmitting STA can potentially transmit on the second link, the receiving STA has already reserved the medium by setting NAV, preventing any possible collision and ensuring reliable transmission.
2Reliability
If a receiving STA sets NAV for both first and second links based on signal detection on the first link, then signal collision is prevented, but processing overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the NAV setting operations for the first and second links into a single unified process. Instead of separately detecting signals and setting NAV for each link independently, the system combines these operations by triggering a single NAV setting routine that applies to both links simultaneously, reducing redundant processing and time consumption.
3Productivity
If multi-link transmission is supported, then productivity of wireless communication is improved, but potential for signal collision increases due to simultaneous transmission and reception constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by proactively setting NAV on the second link before any potential collision can occur. When a signal is detected on the first link, the receiving STA preemptively reserves the second link by setting NAV, creating a preventive barrier against future collisions and enabling safe multi-link operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The NAV mechanism serves as an intermediary that mediates between the transmitting STA's desire to utilize multiple links for increased throughput and the receiving STA's need to prevent collisions. By setting NAV based on signal detection on any link, the intermediary NAV reservation system coordinates transmission activities across multiple links, allowing high productivity while maintaining collision-free operation.
Data Source
AI summary
According to various embodiments, a method performed in a wireless local area network (WLAN) system may comprise the steps of: receiving, by a first station (STA) supporting a first and a second link, a physical protocol data unit (PPDU) generated for a second STA, via the first link, the PPDU being received from a BSS to which the first STA belongs; setting, by the first STA, a first type NAV for the first link on the basis of the PPDU; and setting, by the first STA, a first type NAV for the second link on the basis of the PPDU.