WLAN Channel Reservation for Backward Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
The 802.11ac WLAN system lacks backward compatibility as only STAs supporting the second channel set can access an AP operating on the second channel set, excluding 802.11ac and 802.11n STAs that do not support this channel set.
Innovation Solution
A method and device for WLAN that perform channel detection and scanning on both first and second channel sets, exchanging reservation messages to reserve channels for transmission, allowing data frames to be transmitted on the second channel set while acknowledging on either channel set, ensuring compatibility with different STA capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If an AP operates on the second channel set to enable 802.11ac devices with higher bandwidth support, then the data transmission rate and bandwidth capability are improved, but 802.11ac and 802.11n STAs that do not support the second channel set cannot access the network, losing backward compatibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the channel sets into first channel set and second channel set, allowing different STAs to operate on different channel sets according to their capabilities. The AP transmits indication information to guide STAs on which channel set to use, enabling 802.11ac devices to use the second channel set for high-speed transmission while 802.11n devices use the first channel set for backward compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimension of channel set selection by transmitting indication information that specifies which channel set (first or second) should be used. This additional dimension allows the system to accommodate both old and new device types simultaneously by providing directional guidance on channel set usage based on device capabilities.
2Productivity
If all STAs are required to support the second channel set to achieve high bandwidth transmission, then the bandwidth capability and data rate are improved, but the system complexity increases and older devices cannot operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the system universal by enabling it to work with both 802.11ac and 802.11n devices through the same AP. The AP can operate on both first and second channel sets and dynamically guides different STAs to appropriate channel sets based on their capabilities, allowing the system to serve multiple device types without requiring all devices to be upgraded.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of channel set usage dynamically based on device capabilities. The AP transmits indication information that specifies which channel set parameter should be used by each STA, allowing the system to adapt the channel set parameter according to the specific capabilities of connecting devices rather than requiring a fixed configuration.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention claims a transmission method and device in WLAN, wherein the method includes: a transmitting STA or a receiving STA performing channel detection and/or channel scanning on a channel of the first channel set and/or the second channel set; if the result of the detection and/or scanning satisfies a preset condition, the transmitting STA and the receiving STA exchanging a reservation message on the channel of the first channel set or the second channel set, wherein the reservation message is configured to reserve a channel of the second channel set for transmission; the transmitting STA transmits a data frame to the receiving STA on the reserved channel of the second channel set; and after receiving the data frame, the receiving STA transmits acknowledgement information of the data frame on the channel of the first channel set or the second channel set.