Sub-1 GHz WLAN Device with Dynamic Bandwidth Selection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless local area networks (WLANs) operating in sub-1 GHz bands face limitations in data throughput and transmission distance, particularly with IEEE 802.11ah and IEEE 802.11af standards, which require improved bandwidth and signal decoding methods to enhance communication efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a network device with a radio frequency module, baseband module, and medium access control module that selects between sub-1 GHz, IEEE 802.11ah, and IEEE 802.11af bands, and corresponding bandwidths, to convert and transmit signals efficiently, utilizing downclocked bandwidths and unique preambles for accurate signal decoding across different modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If WLANs operate in sub-1 GHz bands with IEEE 802.11ah and IEEE 802.11af standards to increase transmission distance, then transmission distance is improved, but data throughput deteriorates due to bandwidth limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic bandwidth selection where the network device can adaptively choose between different bandwidth configurations (1 MHz, 2 MHz, 4 MHz, 8 MHz, 16 MHz) based on communication requirements. This allows the system to optimize between transmission distance and data throughput dynamically, rather than being fixed to a single bandwidth mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the bandwidth parameter from the traditional 20 MHz used in IEEE 802.11ac to downclocked bandwidths (10x smaller) suitable for sub-1 GHz operation. This parameter change enables the system to achieve longer transmission distances while maintaining acceptable data throughput by matching the bandwidth to the frequency band characteristics.
2Length of stationary object
If bandwidth is downclocked from IEEE 802.11ac bandwidth to sub-1 GHz bandwidths, then transmission distance is improved, but signal decoding complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces unique preambles specifically designed for sub-1 GHz bands before the actual data transmission. These preambles are configured according to the selected bandwidth (1, 2, 4, 8, or 16 MHz) and serve as preliminary signal structures that facilitate easier signal detection and decoding, reducing the complexity of processing the main data portion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the signal structure into distinct components including preambles, data portions, and guard intervals. By dividing the transmission into these segments with specific functions, the system simplifies the decoding process - the preamble segment handles synchronization and parameter indication, while the data segment handles payload transmission.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple bandwidths are supported for different modes, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the network device with multi-functional capability to support multiple bandwidth configurations (1 MHz, 2 MHz, 4 MHz, 8 MHz, 16 MHz) within a single hardware architecture. The same radio frequency module and baseband module can operate across different bandwidths by reconfiguring parameters, eliminating the need for separate hardware for each bandwidth mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic reconfiguration of the radio frequency module and baseband module based on the selected operating mode and bandwidth. This allows the device to adapt its internal configuration in real-time to match the required bandwidth, providing versatility while maintaining a unified hardware design that doesn't require separate dedicated components for each mode.
Data Source
AI summary
A first network device including a radio frequency (RF), baseband, and medium access control (MAC) modules. The RF module: based on a predetermined primary mode, selects a first band from bands including a sub-1 GHz, IEEE 802.11ah, and IEEE 802.11af bands; in the first band, receives a radio or intermediate frequency signal; and converts the radio or intermediate frequency signal to a baseband signal. The baseband module: based on the primary mode, selects a secondary mode and a first bandwidth from multiple bandwidths, where the secondary mode has a corresponding data rate and the bandwidths include a bandwidth downclocked from an IEEE 802.11ac or 1 MHz bandwidth; receives the baseband signal from the RF module, where the baseband signal has the first bandwidth; and based on the baseband signal, outputs a frame included in the baseband signal. The MAC module receives the frame from the baseband module at the data rate.