CN101743732A - Data transmission and encapsulation - Google Patents

Abstract

Without limiting the disclosure, at least one described implementation encapsulates Ethernet data for communication over a cable medium using a TDF structure typical of wireless systems. One encapsulation process receives (1130, 1820) a packet from a first source and a packet from a second source. The two packets have a particular format. The encapsulation process encapsulates (1150, 1850) the two packets into an encapsulated packet having a different format. One extraction process receives (1620, 1920) an encapsulated packet having a given format. The encapsulated packet includes a packet from a first source and a packet from a second source, with the two packets having a format different from the given format. The extraction process extracts (1630, 1930) the two packets from the encapsulated packet. A corresponding signal, as well as apparatuses, for use with the encapsulation and extraction processes are also described.

Description

Data transmit and encapsulation

Technical field

At least one embodiment relate generally to data transferring technique relates more specifically in order to transmit and encapsulation of data at network.

Background technology

Use various communication systems to transmit data.Specific system encapsulates described grouping in each grouping when one deck is delivered to another layer.Encapsulation allows described layer that additional service or characteristic is provided in communication system.

Summary of the invention

According to total aspect, receive grouping from the reception grouping of first source and from second source.Two groupings have specific form.With two packet encapsulation is the grouping after encapsulation with different-format.

According to another total aspect, be fabricated (structure) and comprise two parts for the signal that carrying has the grouping after encapsulation of given format.A part is built as carries part grouping, grouping after encapsulation that comprises from first source.Grouping from first source has the specific form that is different from given format.Another part is built as and carries part grouping, grouping after encapsulation that comprises from second source.Grouping from second source also has this specific form.

According to another total aspect, reception has the grouping after encapsulation of given format.Grouping after encapsulation comprises that two groupings have the form that is different from given format from the grouping in first source with from the grouping in second source.From grouping after encapsulation, extract these two groupings.

The details of one or more embodiments is proposed in following accompanying drawing and description.Even described, also should know and to dispose or to embody described embodiment in every way in a specific mode.For example, embodiment can be carried out as method, perhaps it is presented as to be configured to and carry out one group of apparatus operating, perhaps it is presented as that storage is used to carry out the equipment of one group of instruction of operating.Consider following detailed description together with accompanying drawing and claim, it is obvious that others and feature will become.

Description of drawings

Fig. 1 illustrates the exemplary TDF access network framework of simplification.

Fig. 2 is shown in the 802.11MAC sublayer in the OSI Reference Model.

Fig. 3 is shown in the embodiment of the TDF transmission entity in the OSI Reference Model.

Fig. 4 illustrates the embodiment of communication pattern inlet routine.

Fig. 5 illustrates the embodiment of TDF super frame structure.

Fig. 6 illustrates the embodiment of registration (registration) routine.

Fig. 7 illustrates the embodiment of cancellation (unregistration) routine.

Fig. 8 illustrates the embodiment of survival (alive) notification routines.

Fig. 9 comprises the system diagram of the embodiment of having described the TDF network.

Figure 10 comprises the block diagram according to the embodiment of the AP of Fig. 9 and modulator-demodulator.

Figure 11 comprises the flow chart of the embodiment of uplink transmission process.

Figure 12 is included in the figure of the embodiment of mapping one to one between Ethernet grouping and the WLAN grouping.

Figure 13 is included in the figure that carries out the embodiment of conversion between a plurality of Ethernet groupings and the single WLAN grouping.

Figure 14 comprises the figure of the stream of packets in the conversion of describing Figure 13.

Figure 15 comprises the figure according to the embodiment of the EIW head of Figure 14.

Figure 16 comprises that up link receives the flow chart of the embodiment of handling.

Figure 17 comprises the figure of the embodiment of describing the decapsulation grouping.

Figure 18 comprises the figure that describes according to the embodiment of the PADM of Figure 10.

Figure 19 comprises that down link transmits the flow chart of the embodiment of handling.

Figure 20 comprises that down link receives the flow chart of the embodiment of handling.

Embodiment

The discussion of Fig. 1-8 presented comprised one or more novelties and various embodiments creationary aspect or characteristic.In these embodiments at least one provides a kind of characteristic feature of using wireless system to transmit the system of data on cable.Particularly, at least one embodiment is used time division multiplexing on coaxial cable.Such system for example allows cable television operators that TV signal is provided in the part of frequency spectrum and provide Additional Services on another part of frequency spectrum.These Additional Services for example can comprise that the internet inserts, and it comprises and be used to the access of searching for the internet and watching the webpage on the internet, and the access that is used for the service (such as, for example, video request program) on the receiving internet.

The discussion of Fig. 9-19 has been presented additional embodiment, and at least one novelty by describing encapsulation in these additional embodiments expanded the discussion of Fig. 1-8 with creationary use.A specific embodiment comprises the modulator-demodulator that receives the Ethernet grouping from a plurality of main frames.Each main frame may be attempted to communicate by letter with different websites by router.Modulator-demodulator becomes these packet encapsulation according to the format structure (format structure) that is used for wireless transmission or agreement and formatted single grouping.Yet, on coaxial cable, send grouping after encapsulation and receive for router.In one embodiment, router sends to these groupings the different website that each main frame is attempted to communicate with it then.

Compare with the system that only encapsulates a grouping at every turn, the encapsulation that above-mentioned embodiment is used provides the increase of throughput.Thus, the expense (overhead) of distribution (spread out) wireless format structure in a plurality of Ethernet groupings.This routine use with encapsulation is opposite, and it for example allows to provide supplementary features by another communication layers, perhaps guarantees downward compatibility (backward compatibility) by keeping traditional (legacy) frame structure in the data after encapsulation.In addition, depend on system design, the encapsulation of above-mentioned embodiment also allows will be from the data encapsulation of multiple source together, and the data encapsulation that will go to different end users (for example, different websites, perhaps different main frames) together.

This application provides the description of Fig. 1-8 now.Note, the various piece of the description of Fig. 1-8 is used title.Theme that should not be interpreted as disclosing of this part is restricted to this title for the title of certain portions perhaps should not be interpreted as disclosing of other parts is restricted to theme except the theme of this title yet.Title is exemplary, and is intended to as general the assisting to the reader.Title is not intended to retrain flow process of the present disclosure or limits application of the present disclosure or generality.

Total description

Use situation

In order to provide data, services by existing coaxial cable TV system (CATV), at least one embodiment has been disposed the access point (AP) and the station (STA) of deferring to time-division function (TDF) agreement in the cable access network.AP is connected via the splitter that is in hierarchical tree (splitter) with STA.In this way, the user is in and can inserts remote I P core network via the cable access network.As illustrated in figure 1, illustrate detailed network topology.

As can be seen from Fig. 1, in this typical access network infrastructure, there is the AP that defers to the TDF agreement, this AP has an Ethernet interface that is connected with IP core network and a coaxial cable interface that is connected with the cable access network.At the other end of cable access network, there is the STA that defers to the TDF agreement, that is, terminal, described STA is connected with the cable access network via coaxial cable interface and is connected with the LAN of family (local area network (LAN)) via Ethernet interface.

According at least one embodiment, according to 802.11 series of canonical, TDF AP and STA are at logical link control sublayer, media access control sublayer and physical layer implementation agreement stack discretely.Yet in media access control sublayer, TDF AP and STA utilize the TDF frame to transmit entity and replace 802.11 frames transmission entity.Like this, the media access control sublayer that is used for TDF AP and STA transmits entity by 802.11 frame encapsulation/decapsulation entities and TDF frame to be formed, and is used to defer to 802.11 AP and the media access control sublayer of STA is made up of 802.11 frame encapsulation/decapsulation entities and 802.11 frames transmission entity.For integrated AP and STA, the TDF frame transmits entity and 802.11 frames and transmits entity and can simultaneously and deposit, with provide 802.11 and the TDF function the two.Can realize two kinds of switchings between the pattern by manual or dynamic-configuration.

Basic skills

The main thought of TDF agreement is in coaxial cable medium rather than transmits the IEEE802.11 frame aloft.The purpose of utilizing IEEE 802.11 mechanism is to utilize the hardware and software embodiment of the maturation of 802.11 protocol stacks.

The principal character of TDF is the medium connection control method that is used to transmit IEEE 802.11 Frames of its uniqueness.That is, it does not utilize conventional IEEE 802.11DCF (distributed coordination function) or PCF (point coordination function) mechanism to exchange the mac frame that comprises MSDU (MAC service data unit) and MMPDU (Medium Access Control (MAC) Management Protocol Data Unit).But it uses the time-division cut-in method to transmit mac frame.TDF has defined the cut-in method that the frame that is arranged in media access control sublayer transmits the detailed embodiment of entity like this.

For purpose relatively, as shown in Figure 2, our IEEE802.11MAC sublayer agreement in this diagram OSI Reference Model.And in Fig. 3 the definite position of TDF agreement in the diagram OSI Reference Model.

Communication pattern inlet routine

Current, proposed to defer to as described below two kinds of communication patterns at the station of TDF.A kind of pattern is IEEE 802.11 operator schemes of standard, and it observes frame structure and the transfer mechanism that defines in IEEE 802.11 series standards; Another kind of pattern is the TDF operator scheme, will the details of relevant this TDF operator scheme be discussed in the paragraph below.In Fig. 4, indicated and when TDF STA starts, determined to enter the strategy of which operator scheme.In case TDF STA receives synchronization frame from AP, then make TDF STA can enter the TDF pattern, if do not receive synchronization frame default in overtime, then TDF STA remains unchanged or transfers IEEE 802.11 patterns to.

The TDF protocol function is described

Cut-in method

Physical layer in the TDF station can have the ability of a plurality of data transfer rate, and it allows to carry out the embodiment that dynamic rate switches under the purpose of improving performance and plant maintenance.Current, TDF can support three types data rate in the station: 54Mbps, 18Mbps and 6Mbps.Mainly under the 54Mbps data rate, provide data, services.When for the station, support the 54Mbps data to transmit when having some problem, can temporarily switch to the 18Mbps data rate.6Mbps data rate operator scheme is to design for the purpose of network operation with the station debugging.

Can be before the TDF station enters the TDF Communications routines configuration data speed statically, and keep equivalent data rates in during whole communication process.On the other hand, TDF can also support the dynamic data rate of viability to switch.The criterion that data rate switches can be based on channel signal quality and other factors.

The basic cut-in method of TDF agreement is time division multiplexing (TDMA), and it is by being that different time slots allows a plurality of users to share this channel with same channel distribution.TDF STA one after the other transmits uplink traffic one by one fast, and each TDF STA uses they self time slot in TDF super frame, that assigned by TDFAP.For downlink traffic, the STA shared channel, and by the destination-address information in Frame or the management frames and their address are compared to select with them be the Frame or the management frames of target.Fig. 5 illustrate exist m compete simultaneously the up link conveyer can STA the time be used for the typical TDF super frame structure of TDF super frame and the example of time slot allocation.

As shown in Figure 5, there be tdfTotalTimeSlotNumber fixing time slot in each TDF super frame, and it is made up of following: one is used for the synchronization slot to TDF STA tranmitting data register synchronizing information from TDF AP; Contention (contention) time slot that is used to send the register requirement that uplink time slot is distributed; TDF STA by registration sends data and the employed tpfUplinkTimeSlotNumber of some a management frames uplink time slot to TDF AP one by one; And transmit data and the employed tpfDownlinkTimeSlotNumber of a registration response management frame downlink time slots to modulator-demodulator by TDF AP.Except synchronization slot, all other time slots that are named as public time slot have the identical duration that length equals tdfCommonTimeSlotDuration.The value of definition tdfCommonTimeSlotDuration for the peak data rate pattern, transmits at least one maximum IEEE 802.11PLCP (Physical layer convergence protocol) protocol Data Unit (PPDU) to allow in a standard time slot.The duration tdfSyncTimeSlotDuration of synchronization slot is shorter than the duration of public time slot, and this is because be shorter than 802.11 Frames from TDF AP to the clock synchronization frame that TDF STA transmits in synchronization slot.

As a result, can calculate the duration of a TDF super frame that is defined as tdfSuperframeDuration by following formula:

tdfSuperframeDuration＝tdfSyncTimeSlotDuration+tdfCommonTimeSlotDuration*(tdfTotalTimeSlotNumber-1)

Relation between tdfTotalTimeSlotNumber, tdfUplinkTimeSlotNumber and the tdfDownlinkTimeSlotNumber satisfies following equation:

tdfTotalTimeSlotNumber＝tdfUplinkTimeSlotNumber+tdfDownlinkTimeSlotNumber+2

In addition, the number of the uplink time slot that distributes for TDF STA in the TDF super frame can be changed into tdfUplinkTimeSlotThreshold from 1.Correspondingly, available downlink time slots can be changed into (tdfTotalTimeSlotNumber-2-tdfMaximumUplinkTimeSlotNumber) from (tdfTotalTimeSlotNumber-2) in the TDF super frame.At every turn when one of existence requires the TDF STA of uplink time slot, TDF AP will draw (deduce) one or more time slots from available downlink time slots, and give TDF STA with these time slot allocation then, as long as the uplink time slot number is no more than tdfMaximumUplinkTimeSlotNumber after this.In different embodiments, the value of tdfMaximumUplinkTimeSlotNumber has variation.But must careful selection so that exist a downlink time slots to use at least, so that guarantee the QoS of data, services for the TDF STA that is associated.In addition, can merge and to be used for all time slots in succession that same direction transmits, that use by same TDF STA or AP sending mac frame continuously, thereby avoid the waste of locating at these time slot edges (edge) that causes by unnecessary conversion and assurance (guarding).

In current embodiment, tdfCommonTimeSlotDuration is about 300us, it transmits at least one maximum 802.11PPDU for TDF STA in a public time slot of 54M pattern be enough, and there are 62 time slots altogether in each TDF super frame.In these time slots, in this way, there are 20 uplink time slots and 40 downlink time slots.When having 20 STA, can guarantee that each TDF STA can use the downlink data rate of uplink data rate and the shared 30Mbps (40 continuous time slot) of 680kbps; When having 30 STA, can guarantee that each TDF STA can use the downlink data rate of uplink data rate and the shared 22.5Mbps (30 continuous time slot) of 680kbps.TdfMaximumUplinkTimeSlotTimeNumber is 30.At last, be about 18.6ms as the value of the tdfSuperframeDuration of duration altogether of 61 public time slots and 1 synchronization slot, and, it can be defined as different values for different purposes.For example, if only there is 1 TDFSTA, can guarantee that then it has the downlink data rate of 4 time slots with the uplink data rate of realizing about 18Mbps and the 18Mbps (4 continuous time slot) of self.In this way, the value as the tdfSuperframeDuration of duration altogether of 9 data time slots and 1 synchronization slot is about 4ms.

The form of frame

In 802.11 standards, there are three main frame types.Use Frame with from another station swap data of standing.Depend on network and some different types of Frames can occur.Use control frame together with Frame come together execution area cleaning (area clear) operation, channel obtains with carrier detect safeguards the function of (carrier-sensing maintenance) and to the affirmative acknowledgement of the data that received.Control frame and Frame are worked together with from another station delivering data reliably of standing.More specifically, a key character of data frames exchange is to have acknowledgement mechanism, and correspondingly exist be used for each down link unicast frame reply (ACK) frame so that reduce because the possibility of the loss of data that insecure wireless channel causes.At last, management frames is carried out monitoring function: the use and management frame is to add and to leave wireless network and move related (association) from an access point to another access point.

Yet, in the TDF system,, therefore, do not have exploration (probe) claim frame to classics and the demand of probe response frame because TDF STA waits for from the synchronization frame of TDF AP passively to find target TDF AP.In addition, in coaxial cable rather than aloft therefore switching frame, needn't define the node problems that RTS and CTS frame come cut-back region and prevent to hide, and needn't define the reliability that the ACK frame is guaranteed the delivering data frame.

Therefore, in the TDF agreement, we only use some useful 802.11MSDU and MMPDU type for the data that transmit by the coaxial cable situation.For example, we utilize the data subtypes in the data frame type, and it is used to encapsulate than the data on upper strata and will be sent to another station from a station than the data on upper strata.In addition, in order to tackle the needs of clock synchronization in the TDF system, we have defined the management frames-synchronization frame of new kind; And for realizing the function of uplink time slot request, distribution and release, we define the management frames of other four kinds, that is, and and register requirement, registration response, de-registration request and survival notice.

Generally, we have defined four kinds of new subtypes in the management frame in the TDF agreement.Following form definition the type that in the TDF agreement, increases and effective combination of subtype.Form 1 shows the effective type and the subtype that are used for the TDF frame that increases in the TDF agreement.

Form 1

Type specification	Subtype specification
		Management	Synchronously
Management	Register requirement

Type specification	Subtype specification
		Management	The registration response
Management	De-registration request
		Management	The survival notice

TDF inserts routine

TDF AP finds and the clock synchronization routine

The TDF agreement depends on the distribution (distribution) of timing information to all nodes to a great extent.At first, TDF STA intercepts synchronization frame to determine whether to exist available TDF AP.In case TDF STA enters the TDF Communications routines, then use the adaptive local timer of synchronization frame, TDF STA will determine whether taking turns to it based on this this locality timer and send uplink frame.At any time, TDF AP is a main frame and TDF STA is a slave in Synchronization routines.Further, if TDF STA does not also receive any synchronization frame from the AP that is associated in the predetermined threshold value period (it is defined as tdfSynchronizationCycle), then it will think that this AP has withdrawed from service, and it will stop the TDF communication process and begin to seek any TDF AP by intercepting synchronization frame once more then.

In the TDF system, should be with all STA of being associated with same TDF AP synchronously to common clock.TDF AP should periodically transmit and be known as synchronous special frames with the modulator-demodulator in synchronous its local network, describedly is known as the clock information that synchronous special frames comprises TDF AP.Each TDF STA should safeguard local timing synchronization function (TSF) timer, and is synchronous with the TDF AP that is associated to guarantee it.After receiving synchronization frame, TDF STA should accept the timing information in the frame all the time.If the TSF timer of reception TDFSTA is different from the timestamp in the synchronization frame that is received, then receives TDF STA its local timer should be set according to the value of the timestamp that is received.Further, it can increase this locality processing that little biasing is undertaken by transceiver with explanation (account for) to the timing value that is received.

TDF AP should be to transmit at each TDF super frame time quantum and generates a synchronization frame and send this synchronization frame in the Sync of each TDF super frame time slot.

The registration routine

Whole registration routine has been described to Fig. 6 n-lustrative.In case TDF STA has obtained the timer synchronizing information from synchronization frame, then it will learn when begin time slot 0.If TDF STA and any TDF AP are unconnected, then it will be attempted to the specific TDF AP registration that sends synchronization frame by send registration request frame to TDF AP during contention slots, and described contention slots is second time slot in the TDF super frame.Should design the duration of the contention slots that equals tdfCommonTimeSlotDuration and the structure of registration request frame modestly, to allow in a contention slots, to send tdfMaximumUplinkTimeSlotNumber registration request frame at least.Based on this design, contention slots is divided into the sub-slots of tdfMaximumUplinkTimeSlotNumber equal length.

As long as TDF STA finds target TDF AP, then it will select a sub-slots to send registration request frame to TDF AP in contention slots according to following method:

A. at every turn when TDF STA is assigned with uplink time slot, it is defined as uplink time slot number tdfAllocatedUplinkTimeSlot, that distributed (number) with storage, its indicate this time slot in whole uplink time slot pond (pool) the position and its scope from 1 to tdfMaximumUplinkTimeSlotNumber.

B. when TDF STA required uplink time slot at every turn, TDF AP should distribute identical uplink time slot to identical TDF STA with trying one's best.

C. when which sub-slots decision selected send registration request frame, if there is the tdfAllocatedUplinkTimeSlot value of storage, then TDF STA bundle timeslot number was set to identical with tdfAllocatedUplinkTimeSlot; If there is no such value, then TDF SAT will select a sub-slots randomly in tdfMaximumUplinkTimeSlotNumber available sub-slots.TDF STA will send registration request frame to TDF AP in the sub-slots of selecting at random.

The purpose of this operation is to reduce the chance that starts and attempt simultaneously conflict when same TDFAP registers at many STA simultaneously.

In registration request frame, TDF STA will be listed in all data rates and carrying some useful information such as the carrier wave/noise ratio of the signal that is received of its support at that time.It can utilize the different data rate of being supported to send some registration request frame in succession from the highest data rate.After sending frame, TDF STA will intercept the registration response frame from TDF AP.

After TDF STA receives registration request frame, based on following method, TDF AP will return different types of registration response frame to TDF STA in downlink time slots:

If the uplink time slot that has A. distributed equals tdfMaximumUplinkTimeSlotNumber, then TDF AP will put into the uplinkTimeSlotUnavailable designator in frame main body.

If B. TDF AP is not supported in listed any data rate among the supportedDataratesSet in the register requirement management frames, then TDF AP will put into the unsupportedDatarates designator in frame main body.

If the public data rate that C. exists the uplink time slot can be used for distributing and TDF AP and TDF STA all can support, then AP will distribute a uplink time slot and select suitable public data rate according to some information such as carrier wave/noise ratio in the registration request frame of STA, and send registration response frame to TDF STA then.In frame main body, can comprise the relevant uplink time slot that is distributed and the information of selected data rate.

After the registration routine of success, TDF STA and TDF AP will reach an agreement to using which uplink time slot and data rate.

Segmentation (fragmentation)/separate segmentation routine

In the TDF agreement, the time slot duration that MSDU is transmitted is fixed as tdfCommonTimeSlotDuration.In some data rate,, can not in single time slot, transmit when the length of MSDU during greater than threshold value.So, when being used for data frame length that up link transmits in being defined as tdfFragmentationThreshold and depending on different pieces of information speed and during the threshold value that changes, with before transmitting it, should carry out segmentation to it at this Frame of scheduling.For all segmentations except last segmentation, the section length of frame should be the eight bit byte (Octets) (tdfFragmentationThreshold eight bit byte) of equal number, and last segmentation can be less.After segmentation, the frame after the segmentation should be put into and wait to send out (outgoing) formation, to be sent to TDF AP.Can transmit the tdfFragmentationThreshold that moves this segmentation routine in the entity or in TDF frame transmission entity, dynamically arrange at the TDF frame and in than the upper strata, move this segmentation routine by use.

At TDF AP end, each segmentation that is received comprises permission re-assemblies (reassemble) whole frame from the composition segmentation of frame information.The head of each segmentation comprises TDF AP and re-assemblies the employed following information of frame:

A. frame type (Frame type)

B. the address (Address ofthe sender) of the transmit leg that 2 (Address 2) field obtains from the address

C. destination-address (Destination address)

D.Sequence Control (sequence control) field: this field allows TDF AP to check that all enter segmentation and all belong to same MSDU, and described segmentation should be re-assemblied and is sequence.Serial number in the SequenceControl field keeps identical to all segmentations of MSDU, and the segment number in the Sequence Control field is to each segment increasing.

E.More Fragments (more segmentations) designator: indicating this to TDF AP is not the last segmentation of Frame.Have only last or unique (sole) segmentation of MSDU to be set to zero by this bit.Other segmentation of all of MSDU should be set to one by this bit.

TDF AP should come reconstruct MSDU by the sequential combination segmentation according to the segment number son field of Sequence Control field.Be not set to zero segmentation if also receive More Fragments bit, then TDF AP will know that frame is also imperfect.TDF AP one receives More Fragments bit and is set to zero segmentation, and it is just known for this frame and may not receive more segmentation.

TDF AP should be each frame that is receiving and safeguards the reception timer.Also have the tdfMaxReceiveLifetime attribute, it specifies the maximum time amount that a frame is allowed that receives.When receiving first segmentation of MSDU, start and receive timer.If the received frame timer surpasses tdfMaxReceiveLifetime, then TDF AP abandons the segmentation of all receptions of this MSDU.If after the tdfMaxReceiveLifetime that surpasses (directed) MDSU that is managed, receive the additional segmentation of this MSDU, then should abandon these segmentations.

Up link transmits routine

After TDF AP receives registration response frame, TDF STA with the analysis frame main body to check whether it has been given uplink time slot.If be not given uplink time slot, it will stop to apply for uplink time slot for a moment and subsequently.If be given uplink time slot, it will use the data rate of indicating in registration response frame to begin to transmit uplink traffic during the time slot of being assigned.

Up link during the time slot of being assigned transmits begins the place, if exist at least one to wait to send out a frame in the outgoing queue of TDF STA, then TDF STA will send first frame in its outgoing queue to TDF AP.After this, TDF STA will check whether the length of second uplink frame and assessment may send second uplink frame in the residue duration of the time slot of being assigned.If can not, then it will send second uplink frame in will stopping up link transmission routine and waiting for during next TDF super frame in the time slot of assigning.If of course, then it will send second frame to destination TDF AP immediately.Send routine and will continue operation in this way, finish or do not have any uplink frame that will transmit up to the time slot of being assigned.

Down link transmits routine

In whole TDF Communications routines, total downlink time slots number may dynamically change owing to the STA number that is associated that changes.When TDF AP prepares to the STA transmit frame that is associated, it with the time remaining in the remaining downlink time slots be used to use (agreed) data rate of being decided through consultation to transmit the required duration of specific descending chain circuit frame to compare.Based on this result, it will determine whether should transmit this frame with specific data rate during this TDF super frame then.In addition, TDFAP does not need any descending chain circuit frame is carried out segmentation.

When not being when sending the time of uplink traffic for the STA that is associated, it is the possible descending chain circuit frame of target that STA will always intercept channel so that find with it.

Nullify routine

As shown in Figure 7, if the TDF Communications routines is withdrawed from TDF STA decision, it thereon during the line link time slot the introversive TDF AP that is associated send the de-registration request frame so that notice TDF AP is released to the uplink time slot resource that its distributes.After receiving the de-registration request frame, TDF AP will make the uplink time slot vacant (free) of being assigned for this TDF STA and put it into vacant time slot pond for using in the future.

The survival notification routines

Referring now to Fig. 8, in order to discharge resource as quickly as possible when TDF STA collapses suddenly or closes, TDF STA must send the survival notification frame to TDF AP by intercycle ground during line link time slot period thereon and report its viability.If do not have any survival notice in the period in the predetermined threshold value that is named as tdfAliveNotificationCycle, the TDF AP that then is associated will think that TDF STA has withdrawed from service, and be released to the uplink time slot that this TDF STA distributes then, just as receiving the de-registration request frame from this TDF STA.

In order to ensure the TDF with many rate capacities STA's and deposit and interoperability, this normalized definition one group of rule all should following of all stations:

A. should transmit synchronization frame with the minimum speed limit in the set of TDF basic rate, make these synchronization frames to be understood by all STA.

B. should on the data rate of selecting by login mechanism of being supported, send all frames with destination unicast address.Unicast frame will not transmitted with the unsupported speed of receiving station in the station.

C. should transmit all frames with the flank speed in the set of TDF basic rate with destination multicast address.

It below is the description of Fig. 9-19.For example, Fig. 9-19 has described the embodiment of one or more systems that can be used for Fig. 1-8 description.Certainly, the feature of the embodiment of Fig. 9-19 and aspect can be used for other system.

As mentioned above, the TDF agreement can be replaced conventional 802.11DCF (distributed coordination function) or PCF (point coordination function) mechanism.Such system can utilize WLAN (802.11) network of widespread deployment and may become the more and more advantage of ripe and cheap WLAN chipset.This system provides the solution of cost-effective for the two-way communication of catv network by transmit the WLAN signal in cable system, even if in the environment aloft rather than transmit in cable system/receive and created the WLAN agreement.In this system, the basic cut-in method of TDF agreement is TDMA, and it is by being that different time-gap allows a plurality of users to share this same channel with same channel distribution.The time slot at this TDF station self that each TDF uses at the station in TDF super frame, assigned by TDF AP (access point) one after the other transmits uplink traffic one by one fast.For downlink traffic, these station shared channels (for example, as shown in the TDF of Fig. 5 super frame), and by the destination-address information in these frames and their address are compared to select with them be the frame of target.

With reference to Fig. 9, show typical TDF network 900.Network 900 provide from subscriber household 910 with 920 to the internet being connected of (perhaps other resource or network) 930. Subscriber household 910 and 920 is communicated with access point (AP) 940 by cable system 950.AP 940 can be positioned at the contiguous place of family 910 for example and 920, perhaps is positioned in the apratment building thing that comprises family (apartment in this case) 910 and 920.For example, can have AP 940 by cable operator.AP 940 further is coupled to router 960 by ethernet network 970.Router 960 also is coupled to internet 930.

As should be understood that, term " coupling " refer to direct connection (not having intermediary's assembly or unit) be connected indirectly (one or more intermediaries assembly and/or unit) both.Such connection can be for example wired or wireless, and permanent or temporary transient.

Subscriber household 910 and 920 can have various configuration, and each family can differently be configured.Yet, as shown in the network 900, subscriber household 910 and 920 each comprise station (being known as modulator-demodulator) 912 and 922 respectively.Modulator-demodulator 912,922 is coupled to first main frame (main frame 1), 914,924 and second main frame (main frame 2) 916,926 by Ethernet 918,928 respectively.Each main frame 914,916,924 and 926 for example can be computer or other processing unit or communicator.

Exist network 900 can allow a plurality of main frames (for example, 914,916,924 and 926) to be connected to the whole bag of tricks of router 960.Four kinds of embodiments below are discussed,, are only considered modulator-demodulator 912 and main frame 914 and 916 for simply.

In first method, modulator-demodulator 912 serves as another router.IP address by main frame 914 and 916 identifies main frame 914 and 916, and modulator-demodulator 912 will be routed to router 960 from the IP grouping of main frame 914 and 916.This method 1 typically needs modulator-demodulator 912 operation router softwares, and this needs the extra memory and the disposal ability of increase.

In second method, modulator-demodulator 912 serves as bridger (bridge).Modulator-demodulator 912 and AP 940 use wireless distribution system (WDS) mechanism of standard to come transfer layer 2 to divide into groups to router 960. Main frame 914 and 916 is identified by its media interviews control (MAC) address.The part that this method 2 is 802.11 standards and can serve a plurality of main frames simultaneously.Yet not every AP and modulator-demodulator are all supported WDS, and those support AP and the modulator-demodulator of WDS often only to possess limited support.For example, for some AP and modulator-demodulator, you can not insert (WPA) with the Wi-Fi protection and use with WDS, and this may introduce safety issue.

In third party's method, modulator-demodulator 912 uses MAC camouflage (masquerade) source MAC (source is one of main frame 914 and 916) of Ethernet grouping to be changed into the MAC Address of himself.Therefore from the angle of router 912, router 960 is only seen modulator-demodulator 912.Utilize this method, modulator-demodulator 912 once only can be served a main frame.

In other method, the encapsulation that describes in further detail below modulator-demodulator 912 uses.In the above method each has merits and demerits, and these merits and demerits may depend on embodiment and change.Yet, method for packing provides specific advantage, these specific advantages are that this method for packing allows modulator-demodulator simpler by not needing modulator-demodulator to move router software usually, does not typically introduce safety issue, and can once serve a plurality of main frames.

In addition, this method for packing transmits each grouping by using single WLAN grouping from main frame, has avoided the big expense that is associated with first three methods.Thereby first three methods causes being used for the expense of the WLAN grouping of each grouping of shifting from main frame, and has reduced throughput accordingly.In the TDF environment, typically increased the weight of this poor efficiency.In the TDF environment, the duration of time slot is fixed, and time slot is designed to only allow to transmit a WLAN grouping in a time slot.Thereby, in each time slot, only can transmit a host packet.

Correspondingly, this method for packing provides one or more in the various advantages usually.For example, such advantage comprises: the fail safe of simpler router design and operation, increase, serve a plurality of main frames, and the efficient and the throughput that increase.

In a word, at least one embodiment of this method for packing comprises that with a plurality of Ethernet packet encapsulation be a WLAN grouping.This WLAN grouping will be the same big with the maximum length that the TDF time slot is allowed.AP (for example, another modulator-demodulator) is descapsulated into the WLAN grouping each Ethernet grouping and they is sent to router.For the communication on the opposite direction, modulator-demodulator sends to (a plurality of) main frame with decapsulation WLAN grouping and with each Ethernet grouping.

With reference to Figure 10, legend 1000 comprises a plurality of modulator-demodulators (wherein two are illustrated clearly) and AP.This legend comprises modulator-demodulator #11010, modulator-demodulator #N 1020 and AP 1030, and each in the modulator- demodulator 1010 and 1020 is coupled to AP 1030 by cable system 1040.Another embodiment is used the cable system that separates for each modulator-demodulator.

Modulator- demodulator 1010 and 1020 and AP 1030 comprise the functional unit of same names, although some outside difference and assembly itself of connecting is for modulator-demodulator and the different function of AP execution.Thereby, provide public unit to come as modulator-demodulator and AP.Yet, should know to be modulator-demodulator and the different unit of AP design that this different unit is only carried out those required functions of modulator-demodulator or AP respectively.

Modulator-demodulator 1010 comprises: local application layer 1011, tcp/ip layer 1012 afterwards, bridger 1014 afterwards.Bridger 1014 is coupled to Ethernet interface 1015, packet aggregation/disaggregation module (PADM) 1016 and WLAN interface 1017.PADM 1016 also is coupled to WLAN interface 1017.Ethernet interface 1015 is coupled to ethernet network 1052, and ethernet network 1052 is coupled to first main frame (main frame 1), 1054 and second main frame (main frame 2) 1056.

Modulator-demodulator 1020 is similar to modulator-demodulator 1010.Yet modulator-demodulator 1020 is coupled to ethernet network 1062, and ethernet network 1062 is coupled to first main frame (main frame 1), 1064 and second main frame (main frame 2) 1066.Be shown the assembly of modulator-demodulator 1020 identical with the assembly of modulator-demodulator 1010.Yet, should be clear, setting up modulator- demodulator 1010 and 1020 and in modulator- demodulator 1010 and 1020 whens operation, for example various configuration parameters are with difference.

AP 1030 comprises: local application layer 1071, tcp/ip layer 1072 afterwards, bridger 1074 afterwards.Bridger 1074 is coupled to Ethernet interface 1077, PADM 1076 and WLAN interface 1075.PADM 1076 also is coupled to WLAN interface 1075.Ethernet interface 1077 is coupled to ethernet network 1082, and ethernet network 1082 is coupled to router one 090 then.WLAN interface 1017 and 1075 is coupled by cable system 1040 with communicating with one another.

Router one 090 further is coupled to internet 1095.Thereby, between main frame 1054,1056,1064,1066 and internet 1095, exist to connect.

Various local application layers (1011,1071) are to be used for the index bed that moves local application and connect with other layer of framework.Various tcp/ip layers (1012,1072) are the index beds that is used for moving TCP/IP and the service (comprise with other layer of framework and connecting) that is provided by such layer is provided typically.Various Ethernet interfaces (1015,1077) are the standard cells that is used to be attached to ethernet network or connects from ethernet network. Such interface 1015,1077 transmits and receives the Ethernet grouping and operates according to Ethernet protocol.

Various WLAN interfaces (1017,1075) are the unit that is used to be attached to wlan network or connects from wlan network. Such interface 1017,1075 transmits and receives the WLAN grouping and according to the WLAN protocol operation.Yet, in legend 1000, WLAN interface 1017,1075 actual cable system 1040 rather than the use radio communications of being coupled to.

Can implement Ethernet and WLAN interface 1015,1017,1075 and 1077 with for example hardware such as the insertion card that is used for computer (plug-in card).Can also most of implement this interface with software, this software is the functional programs of coming executive's interface such as the instruction that use is implemented by processing unit.Such interface will generally include and (for example be used to receive actual signal, connector) and (for example be used to cushion the signal that received, transmission/reception buffer) part, and typically comprise the part (for example, signal processing chip is whole or a part of) that is used for processing signals.

Various bridgers (1014,1074) are the unit of transmitting grouping between Ethernet interface and WLAN interface.Can implement bridger with software or hardware, perhaps bridger can only be a logic entity.Comprise processing unit (such as integrated circuit) or go up one group of instruction of operation at processing unit (such as the processor of operation bridger software) for the embodiment of the standard of bridger.

PADM 1016 and 1076 carries out various functions, comprises the packet encapsulation and the decapsulation that are described further below.Can make up with software for example, hardware, firmware or certain and implement PADM 1016 and 1076.The software implementation scheme comprises for example instruction of a group such as the program of moving on processing unit.The hardware embodiment comprises for example special chip such as application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

With reference to Figure 11, handle 1100 and described processing from main frame to modulator-demodulator that shift grouping from.Further transmit this grouping and receive for AP from modulator-demodulator, and for being delivered to router at last also then to the final destination.This processing 1100 is also called uplink transmission process.

Handle 1100 and comprise that use for example is connected to AP (1110) in the previous processing of describing of the application with modulator-demodulator.Such processing can comprise for example comprising to be verified and operation associated standard WLAN agreement.

Then, handle 1100 and comprise: one or more main frames send one or more groupings (1120) to modulator-demodulator, and modulator-demodulator receives (a plurality of) groupings (1130) that sent.Attention: send grouping and receive for router, this router will (a plurality of) delivery of packets final (a plurality of) destination extremely.In the embodiment of Figure 10, the grouping that modulator-demodulator 1010 is sent by the one or more middle reception of ethernet network 1052 from main frame 1054 and 1056 through Ethernet interface 1015.

Modulator-demodulator is determined will send (a plurality of) groupings (1140) by the WLAN interface then.Modulator-demodulator is made this by identification through WLAN interface couple in router (as opposite, by discerning through another interface couple in router (not shown)) and is determined (1140).In the embodiment of Figure 10, modulator-demodulator 1010 sends (a plurality of) grouping that is received to bridger 1014, and bridger 1014 is made these definite (1140).

Then, modulator-demodulator is a plurality of groupings (1150) that the router encapsulation comprises one or more groupings that receive.Encapsulation (1150) can comprise from a plurality of main frames, for example main frame from the embodiment of Figure 10 1054 and 1056 groupings that receive.In addition, encapsulation can be included in (a plurality of) grouping that receives in the operation 1130 and the grouping that receives and be stored in previously in the formation.

In the embodiment that a plurality of groupings is not encapsulated, this embodiment can use bridger that the Ethernet packet map is divided into groups to each WLAN by separately each Ethernet grouping being encapsulated.This encapsulation for example can comprise data division and the interpolation additional WLAN head of whole Ethernet groupings as the WLAN grouping.

In addition, the embodiment that a plurality of groupings is not encapsulated does not even need each Ethernet grouping is encapsulated.And such embodiment for example can be by utilizing the WLAN head to replace the Ethernet head and by adding one or more added field alternatively each Ethernet grouping being transformed to each WLAN grouping.

For example, with reference to Figure 12, show the conversion 1200 that receives the Ethernet grouping 1210 that comprises Ethernet head 1220 and data division 1230.Conversion 1200 produces the WLAN grouping 1240 that comprises WLAN head 1250, data division 1230 and Frame Check Sequence (FCS) 1260.

Yet implementation and operation 1150 comprises that with a plurality of Ethernet packet encapsulation be single WLAN grouping.In Figure 13, illustrate an embodiment of operation 1150.

With reference to Figure 13, conversion 1300 receives a plurality of Ethernet groupings that comprise Ethernet grouping 1310,1312 and 1314, and produces single WLAN grouping 1318.In the Ethernet grouping 1310,1312 and 1314 each comprises Ethernet head 1320,1322 and 1324 respectively, and comprises data division 1326,1328 and 1329 respectively.

Ethernet grouping 1310,1312 and 1314 can be derived from same main frame, perhaps different main frames.In addition, although be to encapsulate Ethernet grouping 1310,1312 and 1314 for being sent to router, Ethernet grouping 1310,1312 can be different with 1314 final destination.For example, each in the Ethernet grouping 1310,1312 and 1314 can be gone to the communicate by letter with it different internet site of (perhaps attempting to communicate by letter) of one or more main frames.

Conversion 1300 is shown as including two intermediary operations.Yet other embodiment is not carried out any intermediary operation, and also has other embodiment to carry out more intermediary operation.

First intermediary operation is transformed to the Ethernet grouping Ethernet grouping of expansion.Ethernet grouping 1310,1312 and 1314 is transformed to the Ethernet grouping 1330,1332 and 1334 of expansion respectively.In conversion 1300, all Ethernet grouping 1310,1312 and 1314 is included as the data division 1336,1338 and 1340 of the Ethernet grouping 1330,1332 and 1334 of expansion respectively.The Ethernet grouping 1330,1332 and 1334 of expansion also comprises optional head 1342,1343 and 1344 respectively, and optional tail tag (tail) 1346,1347 and 1348.Head 1342,1343 and 1344 and tail tag 1346,1347 and 1348 can comprise various message segment, no matter whether typical these message segments are for head/tail tag, such as, for example, packet numbers (packets numbers), reply and retransfer information, source and/or destination-address and error checking information.

Second intermediary operation comprises that the Ethernet grouping with expansion is transformed to single " Ethernet among the WLAN " (Ethernet-in-WLAN (EIW)) grouping 1350.EIW grouping 1350 comprises each the data division in the Ethernet grouping of expansion.Show two kinds of possible conversion.Solid arrow 1370 illustrates first kind of possible conversion and dotted arrow 1375 illustrates second kind of possible conversion.

Shown in the solid arrow in the conversion 1,300 1370, data division 1352,1353 and 1354 corresponds respectively to the Ethernet grouping 1330,1332 and 1334 of the expansion that is comprised.EIW grouping 1350 further comprises optional head 1356 (also being known as the EIW head) and optional tail tag 1358, any information of describing for head/tail tag before it for example can comprise.

If do not have head or tail tag to be inserted into the Ethernet grouping of expansion, then the data division (for example, data division 1336) of the Ethernet of expansion grouping becomes the data division (for example, data division 1352) of EIW grouping.In addition, even head or tail tag are inserted into the Ethernet grouping of expansion, embodiment also may abandon/ignore head or tail tag when forming the EIW grouping.Under any situation in these cases, the data division of the Ethernet of expansion grouping has identical data with the data division of EIW grouping.

Shown in the dotted arrow in the conversion 1,300 1375, data division 1352,1353 and 1354 needn't correspond respectively to the Ethernet grouping 1330,1332 and 1334 of expansion.That is to say that the data division of EIW grouping needn't comprise the Ethernet grouping of whole expansions.As dotted arrow 1375 indications, the Ethernet grouping of expansion can be divided into the data division of two EIW groupings.

More specifically, dotted arrow 1375 illustrated embodiments show: (1) puts into the data division 1352 of EIW grouping 1350 with the second portion of the Ethernet grouping 1330 of expansion, (2) data division 1353 of EIW grouping 1350 is put in the Ethernet that will all expand grouping 1332, and (3) put into the data division 1354 of EIW grouping 1350 with the first of the Ethernet grouping 1334 of expansion.Thereby, under a kind of situation about EIW grouping 1350, (1) first data division 1352 comprises the Ethernet grouping of the expansion of part, and (2) last data division 1354 comprises the Ethernet grouping of the expansion of part, and (3) intermediate data part (1335 and clearly do not illustrated any other data division) Ethernet of comprising complete expansion divides into groups simultaneously.Although it is not shown, but should be clear, in the data division of the EIW grouping before the first of the Ethernet grouping 1330 of expansion can being placed on, and (2) can be placed on the second portion of the Ethernet grouping 1334 of expansion in the data division of EIW grouping subsequently.

In the terminal stage of conversion 1300, EIW grouping 1350 is included as the data division 1360 in the WLAN grouping 1318.WLAN grouping 1318 also comprises WLAN MAC head 1362 and FCS1364.

As should be clearly, not every embodiment be all used all optional head and tail tags, even does not also use all (or any) optionally intermediary operation (also being known as the stage).For example, other embodiment only copies the part of the Ethernet grouping of expansion to the EIW grouping, so that with more initial data (for example, data division 1326,1328 and 1329) the fixedly time slot of duration of packing into.As should be clearly, based on design object and restriction, for each embodiment, to using head and tail tag and comprising determining and to change of how many intermediary operations.

With reference to Figure 14, Figure 140 0 shows the embodiment how PADM encapsulates the Ethernet grouping.PADM safeguards and enters (ingress) formation that each Ethernet that enters grouping is placed on this and enters in the formation.PADM is string 1420 with Ethernet packet concatenation (concatenate), and adds EIW head 1430 and WLAN head 1440.Depend on the information that in head 1430 and 1440, comprises, can make up these heads 1430 and 1440 or after cascade Ethernet grouping, make up these heads 1430 and 1440 in advance.For example, at least one embodiment will represent that the numeral (number) of the number (number) of Ethernet grouping in the string 1420 is included in the EIW head 1430.Suppose that the Ethernet grouping can have length variable, after the Ethernet grouping had been assembled as string 1420, typically, this numeral was only available.As should clearly defining the needs that head 1430 and 1440 adapts to particular.

With reference to Figure 15, show the form 1500 of an embodiment of EIW head.Form 1500 comprises and is used for serial number and replys the field 1510 of number, total grouping number 1520 and a series of packet descriptor that this series of packets descriptor all comprises a descriptor for each Ethernet grouping of encapsulation in the WLAN grouping.Correspondingly, indicated as the ellipsis of Figure 15, predicted the packet descriptor of variable number.Show packet descriptor 1530 and 1540, each in the packet descriptor 1530 and 1540 comprises grouping sign (being respectively 1550 and 1555) and block length (being respectively 1560 and 1565).

Serial number (1510) provides the sequence identifier of the data of encapsulation, and it allows the recipient that the reception that transmits is replied.Reply number replying the data that receive before is provided.Total grouping number is the number of the Ethernet grouping of encapsulation in the WLAN grouping.

Whether the Ethernet grouping that grouping sign (1550,1555) indication is associated is complete grouping.Suppose that time slot has fixed duration, then all Ethernet grouping may not pack the WLAN grouping into given.Correspondingly, in specific embodiment, be desirably in any given WLAN grouping first and last Ethernet grouping typically will be incomplete.The length of the Ethernet grouping that block length (1560,1565) indication is specific.

Continue to handle 1100, in the embodiment of Figure 10, for example can come executable operations 1150 by the PADM 1016 of modulator-demodulator 1010.Other embodiment can be in bridger for example, Ethernet interface, WLAN interface, the combination of another intermediate module, assembly on the bridger or assembly except PADM executable operations 1150.As should be clearly, can make up (a plurality of) assembly of implementing to be used for executable operations 1150 with for example software (such as the program of instruction), hardware (such as IC), firmware (such as the firmware that in processing apparatus, embeds) or its.

In addition, PADM can be positioned at modulator-demodulator diverse location (such as, for example, on the bridger or between Ethernet interface and the bridger), be positioned at one of each interface or bridger, and/or be distributed in a plurality of inter-modules.

Handle 1100 and comprise that further modulator-demodulator sends grouping after encapsulation (1160) by cable to AP.The grouping that is sent is intended to receive for router.Cable can comprise, for example, and coaxial cable, fiber optic cables or other wired transmission medium.

In specific embodiment, when the uplink time slot of modulator-demodulator arrives, modulator-demodulator will be collected grouping and they will be put into a big WLAN grouping from enter formation.This WLAN grouping is not more than the largest packet that time slot allows.On the contrary, when time slot arrived, if the WLAN grouping is big inadequately to fill the fixedly duration of time slot, then an embodiment still sent this (less) WLAN grouping, and another embodiment sends empty (NULL) data.

With reference to Figure 16, handle 1600 and described to be used to receive the processing that grouping after encapsulation, decapsulation grouping and delivery group become grouping.This processing 1600 also is known as up link and receives processing.

Handle 1600 and comprise that AP passes through the WLAN interface and receives grouping after encapsulation (1620) from modulator-demodulator.In the embodiment of Figure 10, AP 1030 receives grouping after encapsulation from modulator-demodulator 1010.Receive this grouping by cable system 1040 (such as coax network) at WLAN interface 1075 places.

AP carries out decapsulation to extract the composition grouping (1630) that constitutes grouping after encapsulation to the grouping that is received.In the embodiment of Figure 10, WLAN interface 1075 sends (after the encapsulation) grouping that is received to PADM 1076.PADM 1076 carries out decapsulation and provides the grouping of composition Ethernet to bridger 1074.Carry out decapsulation by checking for example total grouping number 1520 and the grouping sign of each packet descriptor (for example, packet descriptor 1530) (for example, the grouping sign 1550) and block length (for example, block length 1560).By checking such data, PADM 1076 can determine to form in the grouping each where begin and finish.

Particularly, PADM 1076 checks that each forms grouping is complete Ethernet grouping to guarantee that this composition divides into groups.If it is imperfect to form the Ethernet grouping, then PADM 1076 keeps this incomplete grouping and waits for up to the remainder that receives this Ethernet grouping (general in grouping after encapsulation subsequently).When receiving the remainder of Ethernet grouping, the Ethernet grouping that PADM 1076 assemblings are complete and with complete Ethernet packet forward to bridger 1074.

With reference to Figure 17, in Figure 170 0, described above embodiment for the operation 1630 of the grouping after encapsulation 1710 that is received.For simplicity, suppose that the grouping after encapsulation 1710 that is received is identical with the grouping of describing with reference to Figure 14 that is transmitted.However, it should be understood that the variation that may occur in practice between grouping that is transmitted and the grouping that is received.The grouping 1710 that is received comprises WLAN head 1440, EIW head 1430 and the string 1420 of forming the Ethernet grouping.

When PADM 1076 handles the grouping 1710 that is received, be complete if form the Ethernet grouping, then should divide into groups (for example, grouping 1720) offers bridger 1074.If it is imperfect to form the Ethernet grouping, then this incomplete packet memory (it needn't be arranged in PADM1076) in waiting list 1730 is arrived up to the remainder of this grouping.Figure 170 0 illustrates incomplete grouping 1740 and is stored in the waiting list 1730.For example, if (span) two WLAN groupings are crossed in the Ethernet grouping, this may occur.When packet integrity, this grouping is sent to bridger 1074.Notice that the WLAN grouping for example can comprise, the Ethernet grouping of a complete Ethernet grouping and a part.

With reference to Figure 18, handle 1130 for further describing decapsulation, described to provide the PADM 1750 of the embodiment of PADM 1016 or 1076.PADM 1750 comprises wrapper 1760 and decapsulator 1770.Wrapper 1760 and decapsulator 1770 are coupled to bridger and WLAN interface communicatedly.Provided the assembly of PADM 1750, more specifically, PADM 1750 can be known as packet encapsulation/decapsulation module.

In operation, as mentioned above, wrapper 1760 is accepted Ethernet grouping and the grouping of encapsulation Ethernet from bridger.Data after the encapsulation are provided for the WLAN interface then.

In operation, the data after decapsulator 1770 encapsulates from the reception of WLAN interface.As mentioned above, decapsulator 1770 is carried out decapsulation with the data that received, and provides data after the decapsulation to bridger.

Very clear, other embodiment is possible and is foreseeable.For example, another embodiment has made up wrapper and decapsulator.And another embodiment is used the Virtual Ethernet feature of Linux.

Notice that other embodiment of AP or modulator-demodulator directly sends grouping after encapsulation to bridger from the WLAN interface.Bridger determines that this grouping is packed and this grouping is sent to PADM.

Continue to handle 1600, AP determines and will be sent to router (1640) with forming grouping.Can should operate (1640) and carry out at the difference place that handles 1600 with other many operations.In the embodiment of Figure 10, bridger 1074 is determined grouping to be sent to router one 090.

AP sends to router by Ethernet interface then and forms grouping (1650).In the embodiment of Figure 10, bridger 1074 sends to Ethernet interface 1077 forms grouping, and Ethernet interface 1077 sends described grouping by ethernet network 1082 to router one 090.

Router receives (1060) and handles (1070) described grouping.Processing for example can comprise that the further destination to the website of communicating by letter with it such as main frame or attempting to communicate by letter with it sends the part of grouping or grouping.In addition, in grouping after encapsulation comprised embodiment from the grouping of the Ethernet of a plurality of main frames, router can send bottom (underlying) information to a plurality of websites.

With reference to Figure 19, processing 1800 has described to be used for receiving from router the processing of the grouping of AP.Encapsulating packets, and from AP transmission grouping after encapsulation.The grouping after encapsulation that is transmitted is intended to receive for modulator-demodulator, forms grouping and is intended to carry out last sending from modulator-demodulator to one or more main frames.This processing 1800 also is known as down link and transmits processing.

Handling 1800 comprises: router receives the one or more groupings (1820) that are intended to go to one or more main frames, and router sends (a plurality of) groupings (1830) that received to AP.Router can be from for example just attempting to receive grouping with one or more websites of one or more main-machine communications.In the embodiment of Figure 10, router one 090 is 1095 reception groupings from the internet.Router one 090 sends the grouping that is received by ethernet network 1082 to the Ethernet interface 1077 of AP 1030 then.

AP determines the grouping that at least one received to be sent to modulator-demodulator (1840) by the WLAN interface.In the embodiment of Figure 10, Ethernet interface 1077 with the grouping that received (it is the Ethernet grouping) to route bridging device 1074.Bridger 1074 is determined and will grouping be sent to for example modulator-demodulator 1010 by WLAN interface 1075.

AP will be sent to a plurality of groupings modulator-demodulator, that comprise one or more groupings that receive and adorn (1850).Notice that a plurality of groupings all receive from router, but can be that (for example, different website) receives from one or more different sources at the router place.In addition, encapsulation can be included in (a plurality of) grouping of receiving in the operation 1820 and previous that receive and be stored in grouping in the formation.

About operating 1850, in the embodiment of Figure 10, bridger 1074 is given PADM 1076 with (a plurality of) packet forward that is received.PADM 1076 ranks other grouping that (a plurality of) that received grouping is intended to go to modulator-demodulator 1010 with (for example), and the WLAN that is formed for after the encapsulation of the downlink time slots that modulator-demodulator 1010 can use divides into groups.PADM 1076 keeps independent formation to each modulator-demodulator (also being known as the station), comprises first formation that is used for modulator-demodulator 1010 and second formation that is used for modulator-demodulator 1020.As when describing PADM1016, having described encapsulation before in conjunction with Figure 11-15.

AP connects to modulator-demodulator transmission grouping after encapsulation by cable, is intended to carry out last sending (1860) to one or more main frames.In the embodiment of Figure 10, PADM 1076 is that in modulator- demodulator 1010 and 1020 each is prepared WLAN grouping in (round-bin) mode of circulation.PADM 1076 divides into groups to be inserted in the downlink time slots corresponding in the TDF super frame structure to the ready WLAN of WLAN interface 1075 supplies then.WLAN interface 1075 uses TDF super frame structure to transmit the WLAN grouping after encapsulation to modulator- demodulator 1010 and 1020 then.

With reference to Figure 20, handle 1900 and described to be used to receive grouping after encapsulation, decapsulation grouping, and delivery group becomes the processing of grouping.This processing 1900 also is known as down link and receives processing.

Handling 1900 comprises: modulator-demodulator receives grouping after encapsulation (1920) by the WLAN interface from AP.In the embodiment of Figure 10, modulator-demodulator 1010 receives grouping after encapsulation by cable system 1040 (such as coax network) at WLAN interface 1017 places.

Then, modulator-demodulator carries out decapsulation to the grouping that is received, to extract the composition grouping (1930) that constitutes grouping after encapsulation.In the embodiment of Figure 10, PADM 1016 carries out the decapsulation of WLAN grouping and provides the grouping of composition Ethernet to bridger 1014.For example, can such as before in the discussion of Figure 16-18 at PADM 1076 description ground carry out decapsulation.

Modulator-demodulator is determined and will will be formed the main frame recipient (1940) that grouping is sent to one or more expections.Can should operate (1940) at the difference place that handles 1900 carries out with many operations.For example, operation 1940 can be carried out with operation 1930 or 1950.In the embodiment of Figure 10, bridger 1014 is determined grouping to be sent to (a plurality of) main frame.

Modulator-demodulator sends to (a plurality of) main frame by Ethernet interface and forms grouping (1950) then.In the embodiment of Figure 10, bridger 1014 sends to Ethernet interface 1015 forms grouping, and Ethernet interface 1015 is by the one or more transmission groupings of ethernet network 1052 in main frame 11054 and main frame 21056.

These one or more main frames receive (1960) and handle (1970) grouping.Processing can comprise that for example, personal computer is stored the multimedia file that receives by the internet, and perhaps PDA(Personal Digital Assistant) shows that electronic information (also receiving by the internet) supplies the user to watch with mutual.

The feature and the aspect of described embodiment can be applied to various application.Application comprises that for example, as mentioned above, by using the communication framework (Ethernet-over-cable communication framework) of transmission ethernet signal on cable, the individual uses host apparatus and the Internet traffic in their family.Yet feature described here and aspect can adapt to other application, and correspondingly, and other application is possible with foreseeable.For example, the user can be positioned at outside their family, such as, for example be located in the public place or in their work place.Correspondingly, can use agreement and communication media except Ethernet and cable.For example, (and using the agreement that is associated) transmits and receive data in the following manner, and described mode has fiber optic cables, USB (USB) cable, small computer system interface (SCSI) cable, telephone wire, digital subscriber line/ring (DSL) circuit, satellite to connect, sight line (line-of-sight) connects and honeycomb connects.

Can implement embodiment described here with for example method or processing, equipment or software program.Even (for example, discussing as just method) only is discussed, also can implement the feature of the embodiment discussed with other form (for example, equipment or program) in the context of the embodiment of single form.Can come facilities and equipments with for example suitable hardware, software and firmware.Can for example implement described method in the following equipment, all processors that for example is often referred in this way for processing unit of this equipment for example comprise computer, microprocessor, integrated circuit or programmable logic device.Processing unit also comprises communicator, such as, for example, computer, cell phone, portable/personal digital assistant (" PDA ") and convenient other device that between the end user, carries out information communication.

The embodiment of various processing described here and feature can obtain embodying in various equipment or application (particularly, for example, transmitting and receive equipment or the application that is associated with data).The example of equipment comprises video encoder, Video Decoder, Video Codec, the webserver, set-top box, laptop computer, personal computer and other communicator.As should be clearly, described equipment can be move and even be installed in the moving vehicle.

In addition, can implement described method by the instruction of carrying out by processor, and such instruction can be stored on the processor-readable medium, such as, for example integrated circuit, software carrier or other storage device (such as, for example hard disk, compact disk, random access memory (" RAM ") or read-only memory (" ROM ")).Described instruction can be formed on the application program of tangible embodiment on the processor-readable medium.As should be clearly, processor can comprise the processor readable medium with the instruction that for example is used to carry out processing.

As for those skilled in the art with obvious, embodiment can also produce formatted signal with the carrying information that for example can be stored or transmit.Described information can comprise, for example is used for the instruction of manner of execution or the data that produced by one of described embodiment.Such signal can be formatted as electromagnetic wave for example (for example, using the radio frequency part of frequency spectrum) or be formatted as baseband signal.The stream modulated carrier that described format can comprise encoded data stream for example, the data flow behind the coding is carried out packetizing (packetize) and utilized packetizing.The information of signaling bearer can be analog or digital information for example.As is known, can transmit signal by various wired or Radio Link.

A large amount of embodiments has been described.However, it should be understood that and to carry out various modifications.The element that for example, can make up, replenish, revise or remove different embodiments produces other embodiment.In addition, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that, other structure and handle can replace those disclosed structures and processing and consequent embodiment will with disclosed embodiment in essentially identical at least (a plurality of) mode, carry out essentially identical at least (a plurality of) function and realize essentially identical at least (a plurality of) result.Correspondingly, these and other embodiment is that the application is contemplated and within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims (26)

1. method comprises:

Receive (1130,1820) grouping from first source, have specific form from the grouping in first source;

Receive (1130,1820) grouping from second source, have described specific form from the grouping in second source; And

Will from the grouping in first source and from the packet encapsulation (1150,1850) in second source for having the grouping after encapsulation of different-format.

2. the method for claim 1, wherein:

Described different-format is adapted to wireless transmission, and

Described method further comprises by wired communication media and transmits described grouping after encapsulation.

3. as each described method in claim 1 or 2, wherein:

Described specific form comprises ethernet format, and

Described different-format comprises the WLAN form.

4. method as claimed in claim 2, wherein said wired communication media comprises coaxial cable.

5. as each described method in the claim 2 to 4, wherein transmit in the time slot that described grouping after encapsulation is included in time division multiplexing scheme and transmit described grouping after encapsulation.

6. method as claimed in claim 5, wherein encapsulation comprises and will encapsulate from the grouping in first source with from the grouping in second source finite part with the 3rd grouping, make described grouping after encapsulation only comprise the finite part of described the 3rd grouping, and the finite part of described the 3rd grouping allow described grouping after encapsulation to fill up the time slot of time division multiplexing scheme.

7. as any one described method in the claim 2 to 6, wherein transmit on the signal that described grouping after encapsulation is included in the carrying additional data and transmit described grouping after encapsulation according to the frequency division multiplex scheme, the data frequency scope that described scheme is defined in after being used for encapsulating transmits described grouping after encapsulation and transmit described additional data in the different frequency scope.

8. method as claimed in claim 7, wherein said additional data comprises TV data.

9. as each described method in the claim 1 to 8, wherein:

Grouping from first source comprises the data that are intended to for the reception of first destination, and

Grouping from second source comprises the data that are intended to for the reception of second destination.

10. as each described method in the claim 1 to 9, wherein said encapsulation provides the throughput of increase at least to described first source.

11. the method for claim 1, wherein:

Described specific form comprises ethernet format,

Described different-format comprises the WLAN form that is adapted to wireless transmission,

Described method further comprises by coaxial cable and transmits described grouping after encapsulation,

Transmitting described grouping after encapsulation comprises

(a) in the time slot of time division multiplexing scheme, and

(b) the carrying TV data signal on according to the frequency division multiplex scheme

Transmit described grouping after encapsulation,

The data frequency scope that described frequency division multiplex scheme is defined in after being used for encapsulating transmits described grouping after encapsulation and transmit TV data in the different frequency scope.

12. as the described method of claim 7 to 11, wherein said frequency division multiplex scheme is deferred to the time-division functional protocol.

13. an equipment comprises:

Receiver (1015,1077) in order to receiving grouping from first source and to receive grouping from second source, has specific form from the grouping in first source with from the grouping in second source; And

Processor (1016,1076) will be in order to will being the grouping after encapsulation with different-format from the grouping in first source with from the packet encapsulation in second source.

14. an equipment comprises:

Be used for the parts (1015,1077) that receive grouping from first source and receive grouping from second source, have specific form from the grouping in first source with from the grouping in second source; And

Be used for to be the parts (1016,1076) with grouping after encapsulation of second form from the grouping in first source with from the packet encapsulation in second source.

Be stored on the described processor readable medium, be used to carry out the instruction of following steps at least 15. an equipment that comprises processor readable medium, described processor readable medium comprise:

Receive (1130,1820) grouping from first source, have specific form from the grouping in first source;

Receive (1130,1820) grouping from second source, have described specific form from the grouping in second source; And

Will from the grouping in first source and from the packet encapsulation (1150,1850) in second source for having the grouping after encapsulation of different-format.

16. equipment as claimed in claim 15, wherein said instruction is formed on the application program of tangible embodiment on the described processor readable medium.

17. one kind is built as the signal that carrying has the grouping after encapsulation of given format, described signal comprises:

Be built as the first of the part (1352) of the described grouping after encapsulation of carrying, the part of described grouping after encapsulation (1352) comprises the grouping from first source, and described grouping from first source has the specific form that is different from described given format; And

Be built as the second portion of the part (1353) of the described grouping after encapsulation of carrying, the part of described grouping after encapsulation (1353) comprises the grouping from second source, and described grouping from second source has described specific form.

18. signal as claimed in claim 17 further comprises the part (1560,1565) that is built as the information of carrying the following content of indication:

The length that comprises described described part grouping, grouping after encapsulation from first source, and

The length that comprises described described part grouping, grouping after encapsulation from second source.

19. as the described signal of claim 17 to 18, wherein said signal indication digital information.

20. as the described signal of claim 17 to 19, wherein said signal is an electromagnetic wave.

21. as the described signal of claim 17 to 20, wherein:

The given format of described grouping after encapsulation comprises the WLAN form,

The specific form of described grouping from first source and second source comprises ethernet format,

Dispose described first and described second portion in the time slot of time division multiplexing scheme, transmitting,

Described first and described second portion occupy frequency range specific in the frequency division multiplex scheme, and

Described signal further comprises the TV part that occupies different frequency scope in the frequency division multiplex scheme.

22. a method comprises:

Receive (1620,1920) has the grouping after encapsulation of given format, described grouping after encapsulation comprises from the grouping in first source and comprises grouping from second source, and described grouping and described grouping from second source from first source has the form that is different from described given format;

From described grouping after encapsulation, extract (1630,1930) described grouping from first source; And

From described grouping after encapsulation, extract (1630,1930) described grouping from second source.

23. method as claimed in claim 22, wherein:

Described different form comprises ethernet format,

Described given format comprises the WLAN form that is adapted to wireless transmission, and

The reception grouping after encapsulation comprises: (1) passes through coaxial cable, (2) in the time slot of time division multiplexing scheme, (3) in the particular frequency range of frequency division multiplex scheme, receive grouping after encapsulation, wherein TV data occupies the different frequency scope of frequency division multiplex scheme.

24. an equipment comprises:

Receiver (1017,1077), the grouping after encapsulation that has given format in order to reception, described grouping after encapsulation comprises from the grouping in first source and comprises grouping from second source, and described grouping and described grouping from second source from first source has the form that is different from described given format; And

Processor (1016,1076) is in order to extract described grouping and described grouping from second source from first source from described grouping after encapsulation.

25. an equipment comprises:

Be used to receive the parts (1017 of grouping after encapsulation with given format, 1077), described grouping after encapsulation comprises from the grouping in first source and comprises grouping from second source, and described grouping and described grouping from second source from first source has the form that is different from described given format; And

Be used for from described grouping after encapsulation extract described from first source grouping and the parts (1016,1076) of described grouping from second source.

Be stored on the described processor readable medium, be used to carry out the instruction of following steps at least 26. an equipment that comprises processor readable medium, described processor readable medium comprise:

Receive (1620,1920) has the grouping after encapsulation of given format, described grouping after encapsulation comprises from the grouping in first source and comprises grouping from second source, and described grouping and described grouping from second source from first source has the form that is different from described given format;

From described grouping after encapsulation, extract (1630,1930) described grouping from first source; And

From described grouping after encapsulation, extract (1630,1930) described grouping from second source.

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