WLAN Resource Allocation via Segmented RUs and ULTR Scheduling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless local area networks (WLANs) face challenges in achieving faster data transfer rates, reducing latency, and minimizing power consumption, which affect user experience due to inefficiencies in communication protocols and channel utilization.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of advanced communication protocols that include simultaneous/concurrent transmission mechanisms, such as ULTR signals, and the use of space-time streams, along with optimized network allocation vectors (NAV) and resource allocation strategies to enhance channel efficiency and reduce unnecessary power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If traditional communication protocols are used in WLANs, then devices can maintain basic wireless connectivity, but data transfer rates are slow and latency is high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the wireless medium into multiple resource units (RUs) that can be independently allocated to different stations. This segmentation enables parallel data transfers across multiple RUs simultaneously, increasing overall data transfer rates without requiring complete protocol redesign. Each RU can be assigned to different stations based on channel conditions and traffic requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces multi-user MIMO (MU-MIMO) capabilities that add spatial dimension to wireless communication. Multiple spatial streams can be transmitted simultaneously to different stations using multiple antennas, effectively increasing data transfer rates by utilizing the spatial domain as an additional dimension for parallel communication.
2Loss of time
If traditional channel access methods are used, then devices can communicate in WLANs, but channel utilization is inefficient and latency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements uplink transmission requests (ULTRs) that allow stations to pre-schedule and pre-allocate uplink transmission resources. Stations can request and receive allocation of resource units for future transmissions, enabling them to prepare data packets in advance and transmit without waiting for traditional contention-based access, thereby reducing latency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the access point monitors channel conditions, station buffer states, and transmission performance, then dynamically adjusts resource unit allocations in subsequent ULTRs. This feedback loop enables optimized resource allocation that adapts to changing network conditions, improving channel utilization and reducing latency.
3Use of energy by moving object
If devices continuously monitor and transmit in WLANs, then communication reliability is maintained, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements scheduled uplink transmissions where stations transmit data at predetermined intervals and times allocated by the access point. Instead of continuously monitoring or transmitting, stations wake up at scheduled times to transmit pre-buffered data using allocated resource units, then enter low-power sleep mode. This periodic action significantly reduces power consumption while maintaining communication reliability through predictable scheduling.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables stations to autonomously manage their power consumption by buffering data locally and transmitting only when allocated resources are available. Stations self-manage their transmission queues and wake schedules based on received ULTR allocations, reducing the need for continuous active monitoring and minimizing power consumption while maintaining reliable data delivery.
Data Source
AI summary
Various aspects related to various apparatuses, methods, and computer-readable medium are described herein. Some aspects may enable an apparatus to protect downlink (DL) communication(s). Some aspects may enable an apparatus to perform DL communication(s). Some aspects may enable an apparatus to communicate regarding uplink (UL) communication(s). Some aspects may enable an apparatus to perform operation(s) related to an allocation vector. Some aspects may enable an apparatus to perform operation(s) related to random access. Some aspects may enable an apparatus to perform UL communication(s). The written description and appended drawings provide detailed descriptions regarding these and many other aspects.