Centralized Wi-Fi Controller Optimizes Uplink Trigger Frames
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Solution Overview
Problem
In Wi-Fi EasyMesh networks with multiple access points, the overhead of trigger frame control decreases channel use efficiency and network performance, especially when the number of stations connected to each access point is high, leading to reduced wireless network performance even in non-conflicting uplink data transmissions.
Innovation Solution
A communication apparatus that determines the number of stations connected to each access point and controls the transmission of trigger frames accordingly, using trigger frames when the number exceeds a predetermined threshold and switching to alternative control methods like CSMA/CA when the number is below the threshold, thereby optimizing uplink control operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If trigger frame control is performed by each access point to manage uplink data transmission from multiple stations, then uplink data transmission can be controlled, but the processing load on access points increases and channel use efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the trigger frame control functions from multiple access points into a single centralized controller. This controller manages uplink data transmission for all stations across the multi-AP network, eliminating the need for each AP to independently generate and manage trigger frames. The centralized controller consolidates the processing load, reducing individual AP complexity while maintaining comprehensive uplink control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The centralized controller serves multiple access points simultaneously, performing universal uplink control functions for the entire multi-AP network. This single controller handles trigger frame generation and management for numerous stations across different APs, making the system more efficient by having one multi-functional controller rather than multiple single-functional controllers.
2Productivity
If trigger frame control is performed by each access point, then uplink data transmission can be managed, but channel use efficiency decreases due to overhead
Solution Approach 1:
By merging trigger frame control into a centralized controller, the patent reduces the number of control frames transmitted across the wireless medium. Instead of multiple APs each sending trigger frames to their respective stations, a single controller manages all uplink transmissions, significantly reducing control overhead and improving channel use efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the trigger frame control function from individual access points and relocates it to a centralized controller. This extraction removes the source of overhead from the wireless medium, allowing data transmissions to occur with minimal control frame interference and maximizing channel utilization.
3Ease of operation
If each access point independently controls trigger frames, then local uplink control is achieved, but overall network performance decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges distributed local control into centralized global control. The centralized controller coordinates uplink data transmission across the entire multi-AP network, optimizing resource allocation and avoiding conflicts that would arise from independent local control. This centralized approach improves overall network performance while maintaining ease of operation through unified management.
Solution Approach 2:
The centralized controller implements feedback mechanisms to monitor and adjust uplink transmissions across the network. By collecting information from all APs and stations, the controller can make informed decisions about resource allocation, power control, and transmission timing, thereby optimizing overall network performance rather than just local performance.
Data Source
AI summary
A communication apparatus acquires information about a station connected to a first access point, determines whether the number of stations connected to the first access point is greater than or equal to a predetermined number based on the acquired information about the station, and controls an operation of the first access point such that in a case where the communication apparatus determines that the number of stations connected to the first access point is greater than or equal to the predetermined number, a frame instructing the station connected to the first access point to transmit uplink data is transmitted to the station connected to the first access point, whereas in a case where the communication apparatus determines that the number of stations connected to the first access point is less than the predetermined number, the frame is not transmitted.