Multi-Band NAN Data Path Segmentation for Wireless Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems face challenges in seamlessly transitioning between different frequency bands, such as 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 60 GHz, due to differences in medium access control operations and antenna requirements, which affect data path stability and reliability in Neighbor Awareness Networking (NAN) protocols.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves establishing separate or unified data links for different frequency bands, using distinct or shared Neighbor Awareness Networking (NAN) management interfaces (NMIs) and data interfaces (NDIs), and incorporating multi-band attributes in frames to facilitate band switching and coordination between NAN devices, allowing for efficient data path setup and transfer across bands based on service requirements and distance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate data links are established for different frequency bands, then data path stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data path structure by creating separate data links for different frequency bands (2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, 60 GHz). Each data link is independently managed with its own MAC processing core, allowing stable operation on each band without interference from band switching operations. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by maintaining stability through separation while managing complexity through structured organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism - a band indicator field in data frames and a coordinated band switching protocol - that mediates between different frequency bands. This intermediary allows seamless transitions between bands while maintaining data path stability, as the band indicator enables proper routing and handling of frames during transitions without requiring complete reconfiguration of the data path.
2Adaptability or versatility
If band switching is enabled for multi-band operations, then adaptability is improved, but data path reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic band switching capability where the system can adaptively select and switch between different frequency bands based on service requirements, distance, and channel conditions. The band indicator field and coordinated switching protocol enable this dynamic behavior while maintaining reliability, as the switching is performed in a controlled manner that preserves data path integrity throughout transitions.
3Device complexity
If unified data links are used across frequency bands, then device complexity is reduced, but service performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by allowing different data path characteristics and MAC processing core configurations for different frequency bands. Each band can be optimized for its specific requirements (e.g., 60 GHz for high-speed short-range, 2.4/5 GHz for broader coverage), ensuring optimal service performance for each band while maintaining manageable complexity through the standardized band indicator mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure describes systems, methods, and devices related to data path structure for multi-band operation. A neighbor awareness networking (NAN) device may determine a first NAN data link (NDL) associated with a first frequency band, a first processing core, and a first NAN management interface (NMI). The NAN device may determine a second NDL associated with a second frequency band, a second processing core, and a second NMI. The NAN device may send one or more multi-band indications of at least one of the first NMI or the second NMI, the one or more multi-band indications being indicative of at least one of the first frequency band or the second frequency band. The NAN device may establish a NAN data path (NDP) with a second NAN device using at least one of the first NDL or the second NDL.