WO2009047711A2

WO2009047711A2 - Multi-user packing techniques for wireless network

Info

Publication number: WO2009047711A2
Application number: PCT/IB2008/054115
Authority: WO
Inventors: Haihong Zheng; Shashikant Maheshwari; Adrian Boariu
Original assignee: Nokia Siemens Networks Oy; Nokia Inc.
Priority date: 2007-10-09
Filing date: 2008-10-08
Publication date: 2009-04-16
Also published as: WO2009047711A3

Abstract

Various example embodiments are disclosed herein. According to an example embodiment, a method may include transmitting a Map message via a wireless network, the Map message including: a first information element that includes a connection identifier (CID) field and one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field, the Map message also indicating that the CID field contains a CID mask; and transmitting a multi-CID data burst, the multi-CID data burst including a data packet for each of a plurality of CIDs based on the CID mask, each data packet within the multi-CID data burst including a CID to identify the connection or user to which the data packet is directed.

Description

MULTI-USER PACKING TECHNIQUES FOR WIRELESS NETWORK

Inventors:

Haihong Zheng,

Shashikant Maheshwari,

Adrian Boariu

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION [0001] This application claims priority based on United States Provisional

Application No. US 60/978,726, filed on October 9, 2007, entitled "Multi-User Packing Techniques For Wireless Network," the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD [0002] This description relates to wireless networks.

BACKGROUND

[0003] In wireless networks, bursts or packets may be assigned to one connection or connection identifier (CID) or station, in some cases. This may lead to inefficient transmission of data to multiple wireless stations.

SUMMARY

[0004] According to an example embodiment, a method may include transmitting a Map message via a wireless network, the Map message including: a first information element that includes a connection identifier (CID) field and one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field, the Map message also indicating that the CID field contains a CID mask; and transmitting a multi-CID data burst, the multi-CID data burst including a data packet for each of a plurality of CIDs based on the CID mask, each data packet within the multi-CID data burst including a CID to identify the connection or user to which the data packet is directed.

[0005] According to another example embodiment, a method may include transmitting a Map message via a wireless network, the Map message including: a first information element that includes a connection identifier (CID) field and one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field, the Map message also including a CID-Mask-Switch IE to toggle between a CID mode and a CID mask mode for the CID field.

[0006] According to another example embodiment, a method may include transmitting a Map message via a wireless link to one or more wireless nodes, the Map message including: a first information element (e.g., DL-Map IE) for a first data burst, the first IE including a connection identifier field and one or more resource allocation fields, the CID field containing either a CID or a CID mask; and a second IE (e.g., CID- Mask-Switch IE) to indicate whether the CID field contains a CID or a CID mask.

[0007] According to yet another example embodiment, a method may include transmitting a Map message via a wireless network, the Map message including: a Map information element (Map IE) that includes a connection identifier (CID) mask and one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID mask; and transmitting a multi-CID data burst, the multi-CID data burst including a data packet for each of a plurality of CIDs based on the CID mask, each data packet within the multi-CID data burst including a CID to identify the connection or user to which the data packet is directed.

[0008] According to another example embodiment, a method may include transmitting a Map message via a wireless link to one or more wireless nodes, the Map message including: a first information element (e.g., DL-Map IE) for a first data burst, the first IE including a connection identifier field and one or more resource allocation fields, the CID field containing either a CID or a CID mask; and a second IE (e.g., CID- Mask-Switch IE) to toggle between a CID mode and a CID mask mode for the CID field.

[0009] According to yet another example embodiment a method may include transmitting a Map message via a wireless network, the Map message including a first information element that includes a connection identifier (CID) field and one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field; and transmitting a multi-CID data burst, each data packet within the multi-CID data burst including a CID to identify the connection or user to which the data packet is directed, wherein the one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field includes a Resource ID or Region ID to identify one or more channel resources to be used for transmitting the multi-CID data burst.

[0010] According to another example embodiment, an apparatus may include a controller and a wireless transceiver. The apparatus may be configured to transmit a Map message via a wireless network, the Map message including a first information element that includes a connection identifier (CID) field and one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field, the Map message also indicating that the CID field contains a CID mask; and transmit a multi-CID data burst, the multi-CID data burst including a data packet for each of a plurality of CIDs based on the CID mask, each data packet within the multi-CID data burst including a CID to identify the connection or user to which the data packet is directed.

[0011] According to another example embodiment, an apparatus may include a controller and a wireless transceiver. The apparatus may be configured to transmit a Map message via a wireless network, the Map message including a first information element that includes a connection identifier (CID) field and one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field, the Map message also including a CID-Mask-Switch IE to toggle between a CID mode and a CID mask mode for the CID field.

[0012] According to another example embodiment, an apparatus may include a controller and a wireless transceiver. The apparatus may be configured to transmit a Map message via a wireless link to one or more wireless nodes, the Map message including a first information element for a first data burst, the first IE including a connection identifier field and one or more resource allocation fields, the CID field containing either a CID or a CID mask; and a second IE to indicate whether the CID field contains a CID or a CID mask.

[0013] According to another example embodiment, an apparatus may include a controller and a wireless transceiver. The apparatus may be configured to transmit a Map message via a wireless network, the Map message including a Map information element (Map IE) that includes a connection identifier (CID) mask and one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID mask; and transmit a multi-CID data burst, the multi-CID data burst including a data packet for each of a plurality of CIDs based on the CID mask, each data packet within the multi-CID data burst including a CID to identify the connection or user to which the data packet is directed.

[0014] According to another example embodiment, an apparatus may include a controller and a wireless transceiver. The apparatus may be configured to transmit a Map message via a wireless network, the Map message including a first information element that includes a connection identifier (CID) field and one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field; transmit a multi-CID data burst, each data packet within the multi-CID data burst including a CID to identify the connection or user to which the data packet is directed, wherein the one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field includes a Resource ID or Region ID to identify one or more channel resources to be used for transmitting the multi-CID data burst.

[0015] The details of one or more implementations are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a wireless network according to an example embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a frame according to an example embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a DL-Map extended IE (or extended-2 IE) according to an example embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 4 is a flow chart illustrating operation of a wireless node according to an example embodiment. .

[0020] FIG. 5 is a flow chart illustrating operation of a wireless node according to another example embodiment. [0021] FIG. 6 is a flow chart illustrating operation of a wireless node according to another example embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating operation of a wireless node according to yet another example embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a wireless node according to an example embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 9 is a flow chart illustrating operation of a wireless node according to another example embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a wireless network 102 including a base station 104 and three mobile stations 106, 108, 110 according to an example embodiment. Although not shown, mobile stations 106, 108 and 110 may be coupled to base station 104 via relay stations or relay nodes, for example. The wireless network 102 may include, for example, an IEEE 802.16 Wireless Metropolitan Area Network (WiMAX), an IEEE 802.11 Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN), or a cellular telephone network, according to example embodiments. The base station 104 may include a cellular or WiMAX base station (BS), a node B, an 802.11 access point, or other infrastructure node, according to various example embodiments. The term "base station" (BS) may be used herein and may include any type of infrastructure node. The mobile stations 106, 108, 110 may include laptop or notebook computers, smartphones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), cellular telephones, WiMAX device, subscriber station, or any other wireless device, according to example embodiments. The term "wireless node" may include any type of wireless node, such as base stations, mobile stations, etc. While the present disclosure may use some of the terminology of WiMax or other wireless standards, aspects of the present disclosure may be applicable to any networking or wireless technologies.

[0026] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a frame according to an example embodiment. The frame 202 may include a downlink (DL) subframe 210 and an uplink (UL) subframe). The DL direction may include signals transmitted from the BS 104 to mobile stations (or mobile nodes) 106, 108 and 110. While the UL direction may include signals transmitted from mobile stations 106, 108 or 110 to BS 104.

[0027] The DL subframe 210 may include a number of fields, some of which are shown in FIG. 2. The DL subframe 210 may include a preamble 214, and one or more DL data bursts, such as DL burst #1 , DL burst #2, ...DL burst #N. DL burst #1 may include a Map message that may include some scheduling information for one or more data bursts. DL burst #1 may include a DL Map 16 that provides DL burst scheduling information, and an UL Map 218 that may provide UL scheduling information. A Map message, transmitted by a BS 104 (FIG. 1) to one or more mobile stations, may include the DL Map 216, the UL Map 218, and/or other information, to provide scheduling and resource information for DL and UL transmissions. The DL Map 216 and the UL Map 218 may be transmitted via one or more information elements (IEs) within a Map message, for example.

[0028] The DL burst #1 may also typically include one or more data packets or

MAC PDUs (Media Access Control Protocol Data Units). DL subframe 210 may similarly include additional DL data bursts, including DL burst #2, ...DL burst #N. Each DL burst may be described by an associated Map information element Map IE), described below.

[0029] In some conventional wireless networks, a DL burst may typically be assigned to one CID (connection identifier) or user. A CID may, for example, identify a connection between a base station (BS) and a mobile station (MS) or wireless node, a user, or an application at a mobile station, for example. In such an arrangement, a Map IE (e.g., DL-Map IE) may be provided for each DL burst, specifying resources and other information for the single-CID burst, etc. However, in such an arrangement, each burst may handle DL data transmission for only one CID.

[0030] However, according to an example embodiment, it is desirable to allow for multi-user or multi-CID data bursts, where each data burst can accommodate packets or Media Access Control Protocol Data Units (MAC PDUs) transmitted to each of multiple users or CIDs within the same burst. This may provide more flexibility, and may allow smaller packets to be more efficiently transmitted, and/or multiple smaller packets to different users or CIDs to be included in each data burst.

[0031 ] Therefore, as shown in FIG. 2, the MAC PDUs 220 of burst #1 may include a MAC PDU or packet for each of a plurality of different CIDs or users. For example, DL burst #1 may include a MAC PDU for CID #1, a MAC PDU for CID #2, ... a MAC PDU for CID #N. The additional DL data bursts in DL subframe 210 (e.g., DL burst #2, DL burst #3 ... DL burst #N) do not typically include DL Map or UL Map, but may include a set or group of MAC PDUs, e.g., one or more MAC PDUs addressed or directed to each of a plurality of CIDs. For example, DL burst #N may include a MAC PDU directed to CID #X, a MAC PDU for CID #Y, and a MAC PDU for CID # Z (where X, Y and Z represent CID numbers). Each MAC PDU or data packet may include a CID field that identifies the CID to which the MAC PDU is directed or belongs, which allows the receiving node, user or application, to determine or confirm which CID or user the packet is directed to.

[0032] Also, in an example embodiment, all the packets within one DL data burst may be transmitted using the same physical transmission mode, which may be identified by a DIUC (DL Interval Usage Code), which may identify a modulation rate, coding scheme, etc., used for the DL data burst. As noted, in an example embodiment, each DL data burst may include data packets directed to different CIDs or users. Thus, a BS may select a group of wireless stations or CIDs to group together for a multi-CID DL data burst based on radio channel quality associated with each of the CIDs or users, since one DIUC (one modulation scheme and coding rate) may be used for the entire DL data burst. For example, a group of CIDs or stations may be selected for a multi-CID data burst that have a similar channel quality or that have a minimum channel quality (e.g., that supports the selected DIUC for the data burst).

[0033] As shown in FIG. 2, DL Map 216 may include a Map IE to describe each

DL data burst. For example a Map IE #1 222 is provided to describe the DL burst #1, Map IE #2 224 describes DL burst #2, ...Map IE #N 226 describes DL burst #N. Each Map IE may, for example, describe the starting point and size or length of the channel resources for the DL data burst. A number of different Map IEs may be used, such as, for example, a DL-Map IE, a Hybrid ARQ (HARQ) related IE, a DL HARQ Chase Sub- burst lE, DL HARQ IR CTC Sub-burst IE, DL HARQ IR CC Sub-burst IE, etc., or other 802.16 IE, or other IE. These are only a few example Map information elements that may be used to describe a DL data burst, and many other information elements may be used.

[0034] An example of the Map IE #1 222 is shown in FIG. 2. Example optional fields are shown in dashed boxes, e.g., fields 234, 236, 238. The other Map IEs (Map IE #2 224, ...Map IE #N 226 may include a similar format. Map IE #1 222 may include a CID field 230. According to an example embodiment, CID field 230 may include either a CID or a CID mask. The CID may be a reduced CID (RCID), which may use fewer bits than a CID. CID field 230 may be a CID if, for example, the corresponding DL data burst is a single-CID data burst. On the other hand, the CID field 230 may include a CID mask if the corresponding DL data burst is a multi-CID data burst (e.g., the burst including packets directed to different CIDs). For example, if CID field 230 includes a CID mask, different bits or different values in the CID mask may indicate the presence or possible presence of a data packet (or MAC PDU) for specific CIDs. Thus, a receiving mobile station (MS) or user or application may evaluate the CID to determine if the corresponding DL data burst includes or may include data that is directed to (or belongs to) the MS or user or application (associated with the CID).

[0035] In FIG. 2, Map IE #1 222 may also include a resource allocation field(s)

232, e.g., to describe the starting point and size or length of the channel resources for the DL data burst. For example, resource allocation field(s) 232 may include a quadtuple of, e.g., a number of OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access) symbols, an OFDMA symbol offset, a number of subchannels, and a subchannel offset. Or, the resource allocation field(s) 232 may include a resource ID, such as a region ID, which may be associated with a quadtuple. The association between Region ID and a quadtuple may be been previously communicated by the BS 104 to the mobile stations. Thus, transmitting a Region ID (or other Resource ID), rather than the entire quadtuple, may provide a more efficient technique to identify channel resources for a DL data burst.

[0036] A number of additional fields may be present within Map IE #1 222, including field 234, which may be optional. A CID Mask mode flag 234 may be included within the Map IE #1 222, e.g., if an available bit or reserved bit within Map IE #1 may be allocated for this purpose. A 0 for the CID Mask mode flag 234 may indicate that CID field 230 includes a CID, while a 1 for CID Mask mode flag 234 may indicate that the CID field 230 includes a CID mask (e.g., for a multi-CID data burst). [0037] In some cases, for example, a reserved or other free bit may not be available within an IE to indicate whether CID field 230 includes a CID or CID mask. Thus, in such a case (and also in other cases), for example, the DL Map may include an additional information element (IE), referred to as a CID-Mask-Switch IE 236. For example, the presence of a CID-Mask-Switch IE 236 may indicate the presence of the CID mask in the CID field 230, or may be used to toggle between CID and CID mask for CID field 230.

[0038] For example ,as shown in FIG. 2, CID-Mask Switch IE 236A is provided before Map IE #1, which may toggle the mode of operation for CID mode to CID mask mode for burst #1 (and subsequent bursts). The mode may remain in such CID mask mode for subsequent data bursts, unless another CID-Mask Switch IE is received, such as CID-Mask Switch IE 236B.

[0039] CID Mask-Switch IE 236 may be present in various locations of the DL

Map 216, e.g., to change the mode for different Map IEs or bursts. The presence of the CID-Mask-Switch IE 236 may toggle the mode of operation between CID mode (where CID field 230 contains a CID) and a CID mask mode (where CID field 230 contains a CID mask), e.g., for subsequent IEs or bursts. For example, a first burst may start in the CID mode, and remain in CID mode until a CID-Mask-Switch IE is provided. When a CID-Mask-Switch IE is then provided or detected, the mode toggles to CID Mask Mode and subsequent data bursts will operate in CID Mask mode (where the CID field for each burst will include a CID mask for a multi-CID burst). The data bursts may continue to operate in CID Mask mode until another CID-Mask-Switch IE is provided or received, which causes the mode to switch or toggle back to CID mode.

[0040] The following presents an example of how the Mask-Switch IE may toggle or switch the mode for data bursts between CID mode and CID Mask mode.

Burst 1 : CID mode (CID mode, where CID field 230 includes a CID);

Burst 2: CID mode

Burst 3: CID mode

Burst 4: CID-Mask-Switch IE present in Map IE before burst #4, which toggles mode to CID Mask Mode (for burst #4, etc.)

Burst 5: CID Mask mode Burst 6: CID Mask mode

Burst 7: CID Mask mode

Burst 8: CID-Mask-Switch IE present in Map IE before burst #8, which toggles mode back to CID mode (for bursts #8 -#10)

Burst 9: CID mode

Burst 10: CID mode

[0041] As shown in the example above, initially, bursts 1-3 are in CID mode, and no CID-Mask-Switch IE is received yet; a CID-Mask-Switch IE is provided before the Map IE for burst #4, which switches or toggles the mode to CID Mask mode for bursts A- 7. Data bursts 5-7 remain in the CID mask mode (based on CID-Mask-Switch IE received in Map IE for burst #4). Finally, another CID-Mask-Switch IE is provided before Map IE for burst #8, which causes the mode to switch back to CID mode for bursts 8-10.

[0042] In an example embodiment, the length of the CID mask may be predefined, or may be dynamically set or changed. In the case of dynamically changing the CID mask length, the CID-Switch IE or Map IE, or other IE, may indicate a length for the CID mask. For example a BS may dynamically change the length of the CID mask, e.g., based on collision of CIDs, or other criteria.

[0043] According to an example embodiments, packets targeted to different MSs may be packed into the same data burst, e.g., if these MSs have similar radio link conditions, therefore they can support a common DIUC value. For example, a DL-MAP IE may specify the starting point and size of the data burst allocated to the multi-user packet (or multi-CID data burst). In order to notify an MS whether it has data in the multi-CID data burst, the basic CID is replaced by a CID mask in the DL-MAP IE. If the MS has data in the multi-CID data burst, the bit index corresponding to the value of MS's basic CID modulo n operation, where n is the predefined CID mask length, should be set to 1. For example, a CID of 21 may be divided by 4 (length of the example CID mask), leaving a remainder of 1. Thus, if bit l(bit index =1) of the CID mask is set to 1, this may indicate the possible presence of a packet or data for CID=21 in the multi-CID data burst. [0044] The BS may change the length of the CID mask based on, for example, the number of users that can be grouped together, and/or the possibility of collision in the CID mask of basic CIDs of different SS/MSs grouped together and/or the number of active users. The BS may assign or adjust the basic CIDs to certain MSs to reduce the possibility of collision in the CID mask. With this approach, the BS may decide the MSs to be grouped into the same data burst based on dynamic radio condition without any other control plane signaling, for example.

[0045] The CID mask may be included in a DL-MAP IE in different ways.

Several examples are listed below.

[0046] 1) CID mask replaces CID in the regular DL-MAP IE: an implementation example is illustrated in table 1. With this approach, in order for the mobile stations (MSs) to differentiate whether a CID mask or a regular CID is included in the DL-MAP IE, a CID-MASK-Switch IE may be used to toggle the inclusion of CID or CID mask in the DL-MAP allocations. An implementation example of CID-MASK Switch IE is illustrated in table 2.

[0047] 2) CID mask replaces the CID, RCID 11 (11 bit reduced CID), RCID 7 or RCID3 in the RCID IE in the DL-MAP IE: In this case, the size of the CID mask, for example, may be no larger than the size of the reduced CID. In order for the MSs to differentiate whether a CID mask or a reduced CID is included in the RCID IE, a CID- MASK-Switch IE may be used to toggle the inclusion of reduced CID or CID mask in the DL-MAP allocations.

[0048] 3) CID mask replaces the CID, RCID 11 , RCID 7 or RCID3 in the

RCID IE in the DL HARQ Chase Sub-Burst IE, DL HARQ IR CTC Sub-Burst IE, DL HARQ IR CC Sub-Burst IE, and other 802.16 IEs, or other IEs, etc. In this case, the size of the CID mask, for example, may be no larger than the size of the reduced CID. In order for the MSs to differentiate whether a CID mask or a reduced CID is included in the RCID IE, one of the following information may be included (as examples). o a CID-MASK-Switch IE 236 may be used to toggle the inclusion of reduced CID or CID mask in the DL-MAP allocations, or o a reserved bit (e.g., CID Mask mode flag 234) in these IEs may be used to indicate whether a reduced CID or a CID mask is included. An implementation of the second approach is illustrated in table 3. [0049] 4) Define a new DL MAP extended/extended-2 IE, which carries the CID mask or multi-CID burst, optionally CID mask length and resource allocation for multiuser packet or multi-CID burst. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a DL-Map extended IE (or extended-2 IE) according to an example embodiment. DL Map 316 may include one or more extended DL-Map IEs (e.g., one for each DL data burst), such as DL-Map IE #1 318, DL-Map IE #2 320, DL-Map IE #N 322. The extended DL-Map IE #1 (as an example) may include a CID Mask 324 for the corresponding burst #1, a CID mask length 326, and a Resource allocation field 328, which may include, for example, a quadtuple or a Region ID or Resource ID.

[0050] The length of a CID mask may be the size of a regular CID or reduced

CID, or may be dynamically set by the BS. If variable length of the CID mask is used, the length of the CID mask should typically also be included, for example. In the first three cases above, CID mask length field could be included in the DL-MAP IE or other HARQ DL burst IEs together with the CID mask or in the CID-MASK-Switch IE. The implementation example illustrates the approach where the CID mask length is included in the CID-MASK-Switch IE.

[0051 ] According to an example embodiment, overhead may be reduced in the

DL-MAP in IEEE 802.16 technology. It is applicable to 802.16m technology, while maintaining the backward compatibility to 802.16e technology (as well as being applicable to a variety of other wireless technologies). Since an 802.16e MS may not understand a CID-MASK-Switch IE, even when the DL-MAP is toggled to the CID mask mode, the MS may still assume that the CID included in the DL-MAP is the CID. If it happens that the CID mask matches the CID of the 802.16e MS, the MS may assume the allocation is for itself. There are multiple ways to solve this collision problem. Note that the following example solutions may co-exist.

• Solution 1 : Since MAC PDU, or data packet, carries the CID, the MS detects that the data is not for itself once receiving the real data.

• Solution 2: The BS allocates CIDs to 802.16e MSs with certain bit (e.g., MSB) set to 0, and the same bit is not used and is set to 1 in the CID mask, as an example.

[0052] In order to further reduce the DL-MAP overhead, instead of specifying the allocation using quadtuple (e.g., subchannel offset, symbol offset, # of subchannel, # of symbol) in the DL-MAP IE, a region ID that uniquely identifies a region may be used instead. The detailed allocation of each region defined by quadtuple (subchannel offset, symbol offset, # of subchannel, # of symbol) may be broadcast/multicast to all/related MSs, e.g., using management messages such as DCD. CID-MASK-Switch IE may be included in other MAP allocations if required.

[0053] An implementation of CID mask for multi-user packet is illustrated in the following table. The DL-MAP IE format is based on 802.16e DL-MAP IE format (table 380 in [I]) and is used here only as an example. INC CID MASK is set to 0 at the beginning, and toggled between 0 and 1 by using CID-MASK-Switch lE.

Syntax

DL-MAPJE {

DIUC

If(DIUC == 14) {

Extended-2 DIUC dependent IE

} else {

If (INC CID == 1) {

N CID

For (n=0; n<N_CID; n++) {

If (included in SUB-DL-

UL-MAP) {

RCID IEQ

} else {

If (INC_CID MASK ==

0) {

CID

} else {

CID MASK

}

Table 1 : OFDMA DL-MAP IE with CID mask in 802.16m System [0054] An implementation of CID-MASK-Switch lE is illustrated in the following table. A CID-MASK-Switch lE with the length field equal to 0 toggles the DL-MAP between CID mode and CID mask mode. While in CID mask mode, a non-0 value of length field indicates the length of the CID mask.

Table 2: CID-MASK-Switch IE in 802.16m System

[0055] Another example of applying CID mask in the DL map allocation is illustrated in the following table. The format of DL HARQ Chase Subburst IE, may be adjusted to, for example, include a CID-Mask indicator, as shown below in Table 3.

Table 3

[0056] According to an example embodiment, the various embodiments may include one or more advantages, such as:

• CID mask may replace CID in the DL-MAP. No additional overhead is necessarily added into user plane traffic.

• BS may dynamically group MSs into the multi-user packet and may adjust the grouping in a flexible way based on MS's radio channel quality or channel condition which may vary from time to time frequently. No additional control plane signaling is necessarily needed.

• May provide backward compatibility to legacy 802.16d/e SS/MSs.

[0057] FIG. 4 is a flow chart illustrating operation of a wireless node according to an example embodiment. Operation 402 may include transmitting a Map message via a wireless network, the Map message including: a first information element that includes a connection identifier (CID) field and one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field, the Map message also indicating that the CID field contains a CID mask. Operation 404 may include transmitting a multi-CID data burst, the multi-CID data burst including a data packet for each of a plurality of CIDs based on the CID mask, each data packet within the multi-CID data burst including a CID to identify the connection or user to which the data packet is directed.

[0058] According to an example embodiment of FIG. 4, a bit index of the CID mask corresponding to a CID modulo n operation, where n is the CID mask length, may be set to 1 to indicate a possible presence of a data packet in the multi-CID data burst for the CID.

[0059] According to an example embodiment of FIG. 4, the one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field identifies one or more channel resources to be used for transmitting the multi-CID data burst.

[0060] According to an example embodiment of FIG. 4, the one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field includes a Resource ID or Region ID to identify one or more channel resources to be used for transmitting the multi-CID data burst.

[0061] According to an example embodiment of FIG. 4, the one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field includes: a number of OFDMA symbols, an OFDMA symbol offset, a number of subchannels, and, a subchannel offset.

[0062] According to an example embodiment of FIG. 4, the method may further include determining a plurality of connection identifiers (CIDs) to group together for the multi-CID data burst.

[0063] According to an example embodiment of FIG. 4, the method may further include determining a plurality of connection identifiers (CIDs) to group together for the multi-CID data burst based on a radio channel quality associated with each of the CIDs.

[0064] According to an example embodiment of FIG. 4, the first information element includes a field indicating that the CID field contains a CID mask.

[0065] According to an example embodiment of FIG. 4, the Map message further includes a second information element (IE) indicating that the CID field contains a CID mask.

[0066] According to an example embodiment of FIG. 4, the Map message further includes a CID-Mask-Switch IE indicating that the CID field contains a CID mask.

[0067] According to an example embodiment of FIG. 4, the transmitting (402) a Map message may include transmitting an IEEE 802.16 Map message, and wherein the first information element is an IEEE 802.16 information element.

[0068] According to an example embodiment of FIG. 4, the first information element may be one of the following IEEE 802.16 information elements:

DL-Map IE; a Hybrid ARQ (HARQ) related IE;

DL HARQ Chase Sub-burst IE;

DL HARQ IR CTC Sub-burst IE; or

DL HARQ IR CC Sub-burst IE.

[0069] According to an example embodiment of FIG. 4, each data packet within the multi-CID data burst may include a Media Access Control (MAC) Protocol Data Unit (PDU) directed to one of the CIDs or users.

[0070] According to another example embodiment, an apparatus may include a controller, and a wireless transceiver. The apparatus (e.g., transceiver and controller, or transceiver under control of the controller/processor) may be configured to transmit a Map message via a wireless network, the Map message including: a first information element that includes a connection identifier (CID) field and one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field, the Map message also indicating that the CID field contains a CID mask; and transmit a multi-CID data burst, the multi-CID data burst including a data packet for each of a plurality of CIDs based on the CID mask, each data packet within the multi-CID data burst including a CID to identify the connection or user to which the data packet is directed.

[0071] FIG. 5 is a flow chart illustrating operation of a wireless node according to another example embodiment. Operation 502 may include transmitting a Map message via a wireless network, the Map message including: a first information element that includes a connection identifier (CID) field and one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field, the Map message also including a CID-Mask-Switch IE to toggle between a CID mode and a CID mask mode for the CID field.

[0072] According to an example embodiment of FIG. 5, the one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field may include a Resource ID or Region ID to identify one or more channel resources to be used for transmitting a multi-CID data burst.

[0073] According to an example embodiment of FIG. 5, the CID-Mask-Switch IE toggles a mode from a CID mode to a CID mask mode. The flow chart of FIG. 5 may further include: transmitting a multi-CID data burst, the multi-CID data burst including a data packet for each of a plurality of CIDs, each data packet within the multi-CID data burst including a CID to identify the connection or user to which the data packet is directed.

[0074] According to an example embodiment of FIG. 5, the CID-Mask-Switch IE toggles a mode from a CID mode to a CID mask mode, and the method of FIG. 5 may further include: determining a CID mask based on a link quality associated with each of a plurality of CIDs, the CID mask indicating the presence or possible presence of a packet in a multi-CID data burst for one or more CIDs, the CID mask being included within a CID field of the first information element; and transmitting the multi-CID data burst, the multi-CID data burst including a data packet for each of a plurality of CIDs based on the CID mask, each data packet within the multi-CID data burst including a CID to identify the connection or user to which the data packet is directed.

[0075] According to an example embodiment of FIG. 5, a length of the CID mask is indicated by a field within the first information element.

[0076] According to an example embodiment of FIG. 5, each data packet within the multi-CID data burst comprises a Media Access Control (MAC) Protocol Data Unit (PDU) directed to one of the CIDs or users.

[0077] According to an example embodiment, an apparatus may include a controller and a wireless transceiver. The apparatus may be configured to transmit a Map message via a wireless network, the Map message including: a first information element that includes a connection identifier (CID) field and one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field, the Map message also including a CID-Mask-Switch IE to toggle between a CID mode and a CID mask mode for the CID field. In an example embodiment, one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field includes a Resource ID or Region ID to identify one or more channel resources to be used for transmitting a multi-CID data burst. In another example embodiment, the CID-Mask- Switch IE toggles a mode from a CID mode to a CID mask mode, and the apparatus further configured to: transmit a multi-CID data burst, the multi-CID data burst including a data packet for each of a plurality of CIDs, each data packet within the multi-CID data burst including a CID to identify the connection or user to which the data packet is directed. In another example embodiment, the CID-Mask-Switch IE toggles a mode from a CID mode to a CID mask mode, and the apparatus being further configured to: determine a CID mask based on a link quality associated with each of a plurality of CIDs, the CID mask indicating the presence or possible presence of a packet in a multi-CID data burst for one or more CIDs, the CID mask being included within a CID field of the first information element; and transmit the multi-CID data burst, the multi-CID data burst including a data packet for each of a plurality of CIDs based on the CID mask, each data packet within the multi-CID data burst including a CID to identify the connection or user to which the data packet is directed.

[0078] FIG. 6 is a flow chart illustrating operation of a wireless node according to another example embodiment. Operation 602 may include transmitting a Map message via a wireless link to one or more wireless nodes, the Map message including: a first information element (e.g., DL-Map IE) for a first data burst, the first IE including a connection identifier field and one or more resource allocation fields, the CID field containing either a CID or a CID mask; and a second IE (e.g., CID-Mask-Switch IE) to indicate whether the CID field contains a CID or a CID mask.

[0079] According to an example embodiment of FIG. 6, the CID may include a reduced CID (RCID).

[0080] According to another example embodiment of FIG. 6, the transmitting

(602) may include: transmitting a Map message via a wireless link to one or more wireless nodes, the Map message including: a Map information element (Map IE) for a first data burst, the Map IE including a connection identifier (CID) field and one or more resource allocation fields, the CID field containing either a CID or a CID mask; and a CID-mask-switch IE to indicate whether the CID field contains a CID or a CID mask.

[0081] According to an example embodiment, an apparatus may include a controller and a wireless transceiver. The apparatus may be configured to transmit a Map message via a wireless link to one or more wireless nodes, the Map message including: a first information element for a first data burst, the first IE including a connection identifier field and one or more resource allocation fields, the CID field containing either a CID or a CID mask; and a second IE to indicate whether the CID field contains a CID or a CID mask.

[0082] FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating operation of a wireless node according to yet another example embodiment. Operation 702 may include transmitting a Map message via a wireless network, the Map message including: a Map information element (Map IE) that includes a connection identifier (CID) mask and one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID mask. Operation 704 may include transmitting a multi-CID data burst, the multi-CID data burst including a data packet for each of a plurality of CIDs based on the CID mask, each data packet within the multi-CID data burst including a CID to identify the connection or user to which the data packet is directed.

[0083] According to an example embodiment, an apparatus may include a controller and a wireless transceiver. The apparatus may be configured to transmit a Map message via a wireless network, the Map message including: a Map information element (Map IE) that includes a connection identifier (CID) mask and one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID mask; and transmit a multi-CID data burst, the multi-CID data burst including a data packet for each of a plurality of CIDs based on the CID mask, each data packet within the multi-CID data burst including a CID to identify the connection or user to which the data packet is directed.

[0084] FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a wireless station (or wireless node) 800 according to an example embodiment. The wireless station 800 (e.g. base station 104 or mobile node 106, 108, 110) may include, for example, a wireless transceiver 802 to transmit and receive signals, a controller 804 to control operation of the station and execute instructions or software, and a memory 806 to store data and/or instructions. Wireless transceiver 802 may include a radio transmitter/receiver and a baseband processor. Alternatively, controller 804 may include the baseband processor. The baseband processor may generate messages, perform calculations or make determinations, generate messages or data for transmission (e.g., packets), and may control transmission and reception of messages or data, for example. [0085] Controller 804 may be programmable and capable of executing software or other instructions stored in memory or on other computer media to perform the various tasks and functions described above, such as one or more of the tasks or methods described above.

[0086] In addition, a storage medium may be provided that includes stored instructions, which when executed by a controller or processor may result in the controller 804, or other controller or processor, performing one or more of the functions or tasks described above.

[0087] FIG. 9 is a flow chart illustrating operation of a wireless node according to another example embodiment. Operation 902 may include transmitting a Map message via a wireless link to one or more wireless nodes, the Map message including: a first information element (e.g., DL-Map IE) for a first data burst, the first IE including a connection identifier field and one or more resource allocation fields, the CID field containing either a CID or a CID mask; and a second IE (e.g., CID-Mask-Switch IE) to toggle between a CID mode and a CID mask mode for the CID field.

[0088] According to an example embodiment, an apparatus may include a controller and a wireless transceiver. The apparatus may be configured to transmit a Map message via a wireless network, the Map message including: a first information element that includes a connection identifier (CID) field and one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field; transmit a multi-CID data burst, each data packet within the multi-CID data burst including a CID to identify the connection or user to which the data packet is directed, wherein the one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field includes a Resource ID or Region ID to identify one or more channel resources to be used for transmitting the multi-CID data burst.

[0089] Implementations of the various techniques described herein may be implemented in digital electronic circuitry, or in computer hardware, firmware, software, or in combinations of them. Implementations may implemented as a computer program product, i.e., a computer program tangibly embodied in an information carrier, e.g., in a machine-readable storage device or in a propagated signal, for execution by, or to control the operation of, a data processing apparatus, e.g., a programmable processor, a computer, or multiple computers. A computer program, such as the computer program(s) described above, can be written in any form of programming language, including compiled or interpreted languages, and can be deployed in any form, including as a stand-alone program or as a module, component, subroutine, or other unit suitable for use in a computing environment. A computer program can be deployed to be executed on one computer or on multiple computers at one site or distributed across multiple sites and interconnected by a communication network.

[0090] Method steps may be performed by one or more programmable processors executing a computer program to perform functions by operating on input data and generating output. Method steps also may be performed by, and an apparatus may be implemented as, special purpose logic circuitry, e.g., an FPGA (field programmable gate array) or an ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit).

[0091 ] Processors suitable for the execution of a computer program include, by way of example, both general and special purpose microprocessors, and any one or more processors of any kind of digital computer. Generally, a processor will receive instructions and data from a read-only memory or a random access memory or both. Elements of a computer may include at least one processor for executing instructions and one or more memory devices for storing instructions and data. Generally, a computer also may include, or be operatively coupled to receive data from or transfer data to, or both, one or more mass storage devices for storing data, e.g., magnetic, magneto-optical disks, or optical disks. Information carriers suitable for embodying computer program instructions and data include all forms of non- volatile memory, including by way of example semiconductor memory devices, e.g., EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memory devices; magnetic disks, e.g., internal hard disks or removable disks; magneto-optical disks; and CD-ROM and DVD-ROM disks. The processor and the memory may be supplemented by, or incorporated in, special purpose logic circuitry.

[0092] To provide for interaction with a user, implementations may be implemented on a computer having a display device, e.g., a cathode ray tube (CRT) or liquid crystal display (LCD) monitor, for displaying information to the user and a keyboard and a pointing device, e.g., a mouse or a trackball, by which the user can provide input to the computer. Other kinds of devices can be used to provide for interaction with a user as well; for example, feedback provided to the user can be any form of sensory feedback, e.g., visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback; and input from the user can be received in any form, including acoustic, speech, or tactile input.

[0093] Implementations may be implemented in a computing system that includes a back-end component, e.g., as a data server, or that includes a middleware component, e.g., an application server, or that includes a front-end component, e.g., a client computer having a graphical user interface or a Web browser through which a user can interact with an implementation, or any combination of such back-end, middleware, or front-end components. Components may be interconnected by any form or medium of digital data communication, e.g., a communication network. Examples of communication networks include a local area network (LAN) and a wide area network (WAN), e.g., the Internet.

[0094] While certain features of the described implementations have been illustrated as described herein, many modifications, substitutions, changes and equivalents will now occur to those skilled in the art. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the true spirit of the various embodiments.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A method comprising: transmitting a Map message via a wireless network, the Map message including: a first information element that includes a connection identifier (CID) field and one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field, the Map message also indicating that the CID field contains a CID mask; transmitting a multi-CID data burst, the multi-CID data burst including a data packet for each of a plurality of CIDs based on the CID mask, each data packet within the multi-CID data burst including a CID to identify the connection or user to which the data packet is directed.

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein a bit index of the CID mask corresponding to a CID modulo n operation, where n is the CID mask length, is set to 1 to indicate a possible presence of a data packet in the multi-CID data burst for the CID.

3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field identifies one or more channel resources to be used for transmitting the multi-CID data burst.

4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field includes a Resource ID or Region ID to identify one or more channel resources to be used for transmitting the multi-CID data burst.

5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field includes: a number of OFDMA symbols, an OFDMA symbol offset, a number of subchannels, and, a subchannel offset.

6. The method of claim 1 and further comprising determining a plurality of connection identifiers (CIDs) to group together for the multi-CID data burst.

7. The method of claim 1 and further comprising determining a plurality of connection identifiers (CIDs) to group together for the multi-CID data burst based on a radio channel quality associated with each of the CIDs.

8. The method of claim 1 wherein the first information element includes a field indicating that the CID field contains a CID mask.

9. The method of claim 1 wherein the Map message further includes a second information element (IE) indicating that the CID field contains a CID mask.

10. The method of claim 1 wherein the Map message further includes a CID- Mask-Switch IE indicating that the CID field contains a CID mask.

11. The method of claim 1 wherein the transmitting a Map message comprises transmitting an IEEE 802.16 Map message, and wherein the first information element is an IEEE 802.16 information element.

12. The method of claim 1 wherein the first information element is one of the following IEEE 802.16 information elements:

DL-Map IE; a Hybrid ARQ (HARQ) related IE;

DL HARQ Chase Sub-burst IE;

DL HARQ IR CTC Sub-burst IE; or

DL HARQ IR CC Sub-burst IE.

13. The method of claim 1 wherein each data packet within the multi-CID data burst comprises a Media Access Control (MAC) Protocol Data Unit (PDU) directed to one of the CIDs or users.

14. An apparatus comprising: a controller; and a wireless transceiver; the apparatus configured to: transmit a Map message via a wireless network, the Map message including: a first information element that includes a connection identifier (CID) field and one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field, the Map message also indicating that the CID field contains a CID mask; and transmit a multi-CID data burst, the multi-CID data burst including a data packet for each of a plurality of CIDs based on the CID mask, each data packet within the multi- CID data burst including a CID to identify the connection or user to which the data packet is directed.

15. A method comprising : transmitting a Map message via a wireless network, the Map message including: a first information element that includes a connection identifier (CID) field and one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field, the Map message also including a CID-Mask-Switch IE to toggle between a CID mode and a CID mask mode for the CID field.

16. The method of claim 15 wherein the one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field includes a Resource ID or Region ID to identify one or more channel resources to be used for transmitting a multi-CID data burst.

17. The method of claim 15, wherein the CID-Mask-Switch IE toggles a mode from a CID mode to a CID mask mode, and further comprising: transmitting a multi-CID data burst, the multi-CID data burst including a data packet for each of a plurality of CIDs, each data packet within the multi-CID data burst including a CID to identify the connection or user to which the data packet is directed.

18. The method of claim 15, wherein the CID-Mask-Switch IE toggles a mode from a CID mode to a CID mask mode, and further comprising: determining a CID mask based on a link quality associated with each of a plurality of CIDs, the CID mask indicating the presence or possible presence of a packet in a multi-CID data burst for one or more CIDs, the CID mask being included within a CID field of the first information element; and transmitting the multi-CID data burst, the multi-CID data burst including a data packet for each of a plurality of CIDs based on the CID mask, each data packet within the multi-CID data burst including a CID to identify the connection or user to which the data packet is directed.

19. The method of claim 18 wherein a length of the CID mask is indicated by a field within the first information element.

20. The method of claim 17 wherein each data packet within the multi-CID data burst comprises a Media Access Control (MAC) Protocol Data Unit (PDU) directed to one of the CIDs or users.

21. An apparatus comprising: a controller; and a wireless transceiver; the apparatus configured to: transmit a Map message via a wireless network, the Map message including: a first information element that includes a connection identifier (CID) field and one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field, the Map message also including a CID-Mask-Switch IE to toggle between a CID mode and a CID mask mode for the CID field.

22. The apparatus of claim 21 wherein the one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field includes a Resource ID or Region ID to identify one or more channel resources to be used for transmitting a multi-CID data burst.

23. The apparatus of claim 21 , wherein the CID-Mask-Switch IE toggles a mode from a CID mode to a CID mask mode, and the apparatus further configured to: transmit a multi-CID data burst, the multi-CID data burst including a data packet for each of a plurality of CIDs, each data packet within the multi-CID data burst including a CID to identify the connection or user to which the data packet is directed.

24. The apparatus of claim 21, wherein the CID-Mask-Switch IE toggles a mode from a CID mode to a CID mask mode, and the apparatus being further configured to: determine a CID mask based on a link quality associated with each of a plurality of CIDs, the CID mask indicating the presence or possible presence of a packet in a multi-CID data burst for one or more CIDs, the CID mask being included within a CID field of the first information element; and transmit the multi-CID data burst, the multi-CID data burst including a data packet for each of a plurality of CIDs based on the CID mask, each data packet within the multi-CID data burst including a CID to identify the connection or user to which the data packet is directed.

25. A method comprising : transmitting a Map message via a wireless link to one or more wireless nodes, the Map message including: a first information element for a first data burst, the first IE including a connection identifier field and one or more resource allocation fields, the CID field containing either a CID or a CID mask; and a second IE to indicate whether the CID field contains a CID or a CID mask.

26. The method of claim 25 wherein the CID comprises a reduced CID (RCID).

27. The method of claim 25 wherein the transmitting comprises: transmitting a Map message via a wireless link to one or more wireless nodes, the

Map message including: a Map information element (Map IE) for a first data burst, the Map IE including a connection identifier (CID) field and one or more resource allocation fields, the CID field containing either a CID or a CID mask; and a CID-mask-switch IE to indicate whether the CID field contains a CID or a CID mask.

28. A method comprising: transmitting a Map message via a wireless link to one or more wireless nodes, the Map message including: a first information element for a first data burst, the first IE including a connection identifier field and one or more resource allocation fields, the CID field containing either a CID or a CID mask; and a second IE to toggle between a CID mode and a CID mask mode for the CID field.

29. An apparatus comprising: a controller; and a wireless transceiver; the apparatus configured to: transmit a Map message via a wireless link to one or more wireless nodes, the Map message including: a first information element for a first data burst, the first IE including a connection identifier field and one or more resource allocation fields, the CID field containing either a CID or a CID mask; and a second IE to indicate whether the CID field contains a CID or a CID mask.

30. The apparatus of claim 29 wherein the apparatus being configured to transmit comprises the apparatus being configured to: transmit a Map message via a wireless link to one or more wireless nodes, the Map message including: a Map information element (Map IE) for a first data burst, the Map IE including a connection identifier (CID) field and one or more resource allocation fields, the CID field containing either a CID or a CID mask; and a CID-mask-switch IE to indicate whether the CID field contains a CID or a CID mask.

31. A method comprising : transmitting a Map message via a wireless network, the Map message including: a Map information element (Map IE) that includes a connection identifier (CID) mask and one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID mask; and transmitting a multi-CID data burst, the multi-CID data burst including a data packet for each of a plurality of CIDs based on the CID mask, each data packet within the multi-CID data burst including a CID to identify the connection or user to which the data packet is directed.

32. An apparatus comprising: a controller; and a wireless transceiver; the apparatus configured to: transmit a Map message via a wireless network, the Map message including: a Map information element (Map IE) that includes a connection identifier (CID) mask and one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID mask; and transmit a multi-CID data burst, the multi-CID data burst including a data packet for each of a plurality of CIDs based on the CID mask, each data packet within the multi- CID data burst including a CID to identify the connection or user to which the data packet is directed.

33. A method comprising : transmitting a Map message via a wireless network, the Map message including: a first information element that includes a connection identifier (CID) field and one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field; transmitting a multi-CID data burst, each data packet within the multi-CID data burst including a CID to identify the connection or user to which the data packet is directed, wherein the one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field includes a Resource ID or Region ID to identify one or more channel resources to be used for transmitting the multi-CID data burst.

34. An apparatus comprising: a controller; and a wireless transceiver; the apparatus configured to: transmit a Map message via a wireless network, the Map message including: a first information element that includes a connection identifier (CID) field and one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field; transmit a multi-CID data burst, each data packet within the multi-CID data burst including a CID to identify the connection or user to which the data packet is directed, wherein the one or more resource allocation fields associated with the CID field includes a Resource ID or Region ID to identify one or more channel resources to be used for transmitting the multi-CID data burst.