Upper Layer Routing for Wi-Fi Direct Inter-Group Communication

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Solution Overview

Problem

Wi-Fi Direct systems face challenges in efficient inter-group communication due to the star topology where data communication is limited within a single P2P group, and there is no specified mechanism for communication between multiple groups using a single physical/logical Medium Access Control (MAC) interface.

Innovation Solution

A routing mechanism is introduced at the upper layer that utilizes information about P2P group formation from the data link layer to facilitate efficient packet routing between multiple groups, leveraging Delay Tolerant Networking (DTN) principles and coordination between the P2P communication protocol stack and the upper layer to compute optimal routes based on dynamic topology changes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If Wi-Fi Direct operates in a star topology with a single Group Owner, then data communication within a P2P group is established, but inter-group communication is not specified and efficiency is poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinter-group communication capabilityVSAvoidrouting mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a new dimension of operation by enabling devices to function in multiple roles across different P2P groups. A single device can be a Group Owner in one group and a Group Client in another group simultaneously, creating inter-group communication pathways. This dimensional change from single-role to multi-role operation enables versatile inter-group communication without requiring complex centralized routing infrastructure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a device acts as Group Owner in one P2P group and Group Client in another P2P group, then inter-group communication is enabled, but the device must manage multiple roles and associations simultaneously

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-role capabilityVSAvoidrole management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service mechanisms where devices autonomously manage their own multi-role states and associations. Each device independently tracks its roles across different P2P groups, manages its association states, and handles packet routing decisions without requiring external coordination or complex centralized control. This self-service approach simplifies operation despite the complexity of multi-role management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Use of energy by moving object

If message generation is synchronized with P2P connection establishment, then CPU occupancy is reduced and battery power is conserved, but message delivery timing must be precisely coordinated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebattery power consumptionVSAvoidmessage delivery delay
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs preliminary action by pre-establishing connection information and routing tables before actual data transmission occurs. When a P2P connection is established, the device proactively prepares message queues and routing configurations in advance, so that when data needs to be transmitted, the path is already determined and ready. This preliminary preparation reduces both CPU occupancy during active transmission and ensures timely message delivery without excessive delays.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS10631225B2Device within a wireless peer-to-peer network, wireless communication system and control method
Publication Date: 2020.04.21 NEC CORP
  • US10631225B2 patent drawing
  • US10631225B2 patent drawing
  • US10631225B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A device includes an upper layer that performs routing at least one packet and a Peer to Peer (P2P) unit that provides information about formation of a wireless P2P network to the upper layer which is higher than a data link layer.