WLAN Node CCAT Determination via MCS

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing WLAN systems face inefficiencies in determining Clear Channel Assessment Thresholds (CCAT) due to the use of a single, static value for all nodes, which does not account for individual channel conditions, leading to unnecessary transmission deferrals and potential interference.

Innovation Solution

A method and system where a first node in a WLAN determines the CCAT based on the Modulation and Coding Scheme (MCS) used for transmission to a second node, dynamically adjusting the threshold based on current channel conditions and interference levels.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a single static CCAT value is used for all nodes in the WLAN, then the system complexity is reduced and operation is simplified, but transmission efficiency deteriorates and unnecessary transmission deferrals occur

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveCCAT determination simplicityVSAvoidtransmission efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by determining CCAT values independently for each node based on its specific channel conditions, interference situation, and received signal strength from the AP. Each node calculates its own CCAT rather than using a network-wide default value, allowing localized optimization of transmission decisions according to individual node circumstances.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamics by making CCAT a dynamic parameter that changes based on current channel conditions, interference levels, and signal strength measurements. The CCAT value is continuously updated as nodes experience changing wireless environments, rather than remaining static as in conventional systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Productivity

If every node determines CCAT independently based on local conditions, then transmission efficiency is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvechannel reuse efficiencyVSAvoidCCAT determination complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies self-service by enabling each node to autonomously determine its own CCAT value based on measurements it performs locally (received signal strength from AP, interference situation, channel conditions). Nodes do not require complex centralized coordination or additional signaling overhead to obtain CCAT values, as they calculate them independently using available local information.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Device complexity

If CCAT is determined based on received power from AP only, then the determination process is simplified, but transmission reliability deteriorates due to lack of interference information

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveCCAT determination processVSAvoidtransmission success rate
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by incorporating multiple parameters into the CCAT determination process beyond just received power from the AP. The system considers interference situation, channel conditions, signal-to-noise ratio, and other wireless environment parameters to dynamically adjust the CCAT threshold, resulting in more reliable transmission decisions that account for both signal strength and interference levels.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS10306674B2Node and method for determining CCAT in WLAN
Publication Date: 2019.05.28 TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (PUBL)
  • US10306674B2 patent drawing
  • US10306674B2 patent drawing
  • US10306674B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A first node and a method performed by the first node for determining a Clear Channel Assessment Threshold, CCAT, with regards to a second node operable in the WLAN are provided. The method performed by the first node comprises performing a transmission to the second node using a Modulation and Coding Scheme, MCS, and determining the CCAT based on the MCS used for the transmission.