Multi-Link Wireless Terminal RF Switching for Low-Interference Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication technologies face challenges in efficiently utilizing multiple links for simultaneous transmission and reception, particularly in environments with high-density stations and access points, leading to inefficiencies and interference.
Innovation Solution
A wireless communication method and terminal that utilize a single radio multi-link device with multiple stations operating on multiple links, employing a transceiver and processor to manage channel access and RF chain switching, including null data packet sounding sequences and control frames to optimize communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple stations operate on multiple links simultaneously, then communication throughput is improved, but interference and channel access conflicts increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments communication into multiple links (first link and second link) operating at different frequency bands. Stations are divided into groups where non-AP stations operate on the first link while AP stations operate on the second link, allowing simultaneous communication without interference. This segmentation enables parallel communication channels that increase throughput while avoiding channel conflicts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces frequency band as an additional dimension for channel access. By operating different station groups on different frequency bands (first link vs. second link), the system creates a multi-dimensional communication space where interference is minimized. This dimensional approach allows simultaneous transmissions that would otherwise conflict on a single channel.
2Adaptability or versatility
If RF chains are switched between links, then multi-link operation is enabled, but channel access delays and synchronization issues occur
Solution Approach 1:
The non-AP station performs channel access procedures in advance on the first link before needing to switch to the second link. By completing clear channel assessment and obtaining channel access rights beforehand, the station minimizes delays when switching RF chains between links. This preliminary action ensures smooth transitions and maintains communication continuity.
3Device complexity
If single radio multi-link device is used, then device complexity is reduced, but simultaneous transmission and reception capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The single radio multi-link device alternates between operating on the first link and the second link in a periodic manner. The non-AP station transmits data to the first AP station on the first link, then switches to transmit to the second AP station on the second link. This periodic switching enables the single radio to effectively perform multi-link operations without requiring simultaneous multi-radio capability, thus maintaining low device complexity while achieving productive multi-link communication.
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed is a station communicating with a single radio multi-link device, which includes a plurality of stations operating on a plurality of links but does not support simultaneous transmission and reception by the plurality of stations. The station comprises a transmitting/receiving unit and a processor. The processor transmits a control frame to a first station of the single radio multi-link device by using the transmitting/receiving unit, receives a response to the control frame from the first station of the single radio multi-link device, and starts a null data packet (NDP) sounding sequence for the first station of the single radio multi-link device.