Wireless Access Point Scheduling Period Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems face challenges in efficiently configuring scheduling periods for communication devices operating in stand-alone and coordinated modes, particularly in scenarios requiring dense access point deployment and high-capacity backhaul, where traditional wired backhaul may not be practical.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that receive information defining a mode of operation for communicating scheduling information, allowing configuration of transmission and reception periods based on this mode, enabling coordination or independent operation between communication devices, and switching between stand-alone and coordinated modes to optimize scheduling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If wired backhaul is used to connect access points, then network capacity and reliability are improved, but deployment cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical wired backhaul connection with a wireless communication system. Access points communicate scheduling information wirelessly through coordinated transmission and reception periods, eliminating the need for physical cable infrastructure while maintaining network reliability and capacity.
2Device complexity
If access points operate independently in stand-alone mode, then device complexity is reduced, but network coordination and interference management deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic operation modes that allow access points to switch between stand-alone and coordinated modes. The apparatus receives information defining the operational mode and configures transmission and reception periods accordingly, enabling adaptive interference management while maintaining operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a coordination mechanism where a serving access point coordinates transmission and reception periods with neighboring access points. This intermediary coordination layer manages interference between independently operating access points without requiring complex interconnections between them.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If coordinated mode is used for scheduling information transmission, then interference is reduced, but communication overhead and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic transmission and reception configurations where the apparatus is configured to transmit during specific periods and receive during other periods. This periodic structure reduces communication overhead by establishing predictable patterns rather than continuous coordination signaling.
Data Source
AI summary
According to an example implementation, a method includes: receiving, at an apparatus, information from a node, the information defining a mode of operation for communicating scheduling information; and configuring transmission and reception periods of scheduling information at the apparatus in dependence on the mode of operation.