Coordinated Sectorized Beamforming for Multi-AP WLAN Throughput
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for improved throughput performance and reduced interference in WLAN systems, particularly in multi-AP and multi-wireless transmit/receive unit joint transmissions.
Innovation Solution
The method and apparatus implement coordinated sectorized or beamformed transmissions through access point (AP)/PCP negotiations, provide support for joint transmission, and perform multi-AP/WTRU request-to-send (RTS)/clear-to-send (CTS) procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If coordinated joint transmissions are implemented across multiple APs, then throughput performance is improved, but system complexity and coordination overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the coordination process into distinct phases: AP selection, joint transmission negotiation, and data transmission. Each phase operates independently with specific protocols, reducing overall system complexity while enabling improved throughput through coordinated multi-AP operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary negotiation protocol between APs that mediates the joint transmission setup. This intermediary layer handles the complexity of coordination by establishing standardized interaction rules, allowing APs to collaborate without direct complex interconnections.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If joint transmission negotiation is performed on a second medium after initial request on first medium, then interference is reduced, but transmission time and latency increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic action by using distinct transmission phases: an initial request phase on the first medium followed by a negotiation phase on the second medium. This structured periodic approach separates control signaling from data transmission, reducing interference while managing latency through efficient phase transitions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuity of useful action by overlapping negotiation activities with data transmission preparation. While negotiation occurs on the second medium, the system continues to prepare data for transmission, ensuring that the additional coordination steps do not significantly extend overall transmission time.
3Productivity
If coordinated sectorized or beamformed transmissions are implemented, then data transmission efficiency is improved, but coordination overhead and processing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by implementing sectorized transmissions that direct energy toward specific spatial regions rather than omnidirectional broadcasting. Each AP transmits with optimized directional characteristics tailored to local channel conditions, improving efficiency while reducing unnecessary processing for directions with no active users.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by dynamically adjusting beamforming weights and sectorization parameters based on channel state information. These parameter adjustments are performed locally at each AP based on measured channel conditions, improving transmission efficiency without requiring complex centralized processing.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus may be used in multi-AP and multi-wireless transmit/receive unit joint transmissions. The apparatus may be configured to transmit a joint transmission request on a first medium, and receive a joint transmission response on the first medium. In response, the apparatus my perform a joint transmission negotiation on a second medium and transmit data on the second medium based on the joint transmission negotiation. The apparatus may be configured to perform coordinated sectorized or beamformed transmissions through access point (AP)/PCP negotiations. The apparatus may provide an indication of support for joint transmission and coordinated sectorized or beamformed transmissions. The method and apparatus may also implement multi-AP/WTRU request-to-send (RTS)/clear-to-send (CTS) procedures. The apparatus may be configured to perform coordinated sectorized or beamforming grouping.