JP2009212957A - Radio communication device, wireless communication system and program therefor - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a radio communication device, a wireless communication system and program therefor. <P>SOLUTION: The radio communication device 10 includes a first transmitting portion for transmitting radio signals using a plurality of frequency bands according to a predetermined frequency hopping pattern, a second transmitting portion for transmitting a plurality of radio signals using a plurality of frequency bands according to the predetermined frequency hopping pattern, and an adjustment portion for adjusting the start timing of the predetermined frequency hopping pattern used by the second transmitting portion to a timing which each use time period of the plurality of frequency bands by the first transmitting portion and each use time period of the plurality of frequency bands by the second transmitting portion do not match. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a wireless communication device, a wireless communication system, and a program.

  Conventionally, in a multiband OFDM (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing) scheme, a wireless communication method that sequentially uses a plurality of frequency bands according to a certain frequency hopping pattern has been defined.

  In the multiband OFDM system, a plurality of frequency hopping patterns are defined. It has been considered that a plurality of wireless communication apparatuses can coexist by using different frequency hopping patterns among the plurality of frequency hopping patterns.

  For example, Patent Literature 1 describes a communication method in which data is transmitted according to different frequency hopping patterns between a transmission source device and a reception destination device. Further, Patent Document 1 describes that according to the communication method, the response of data transmission / reception can be improved.

JP 2007-96425 A

  However, although the conventional communication method can increase the total amount of data transmission between the transmission source device and the reception destination device, the transmission band from the transmission source device to the reception destination device can be expanded. could not.

  Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is a new and improved wireless communication apparatus capable of expanding a transmission band in one direction, A wireless communication system and a program are provided.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, according to an aspect of the present invention, a first transmission unit that transmits a radio signal using a plurality of frequency bands according to a predetermined frequency hopping pattern, and according to the predetermined frequency hopping pattern A second transmission unit that transmits a radio signal using a plurality of frequency bands, and a start timing of the predetermined frequency hopping pattern that is used by the second transmission unit are determined by the first transmission unit. There is provided a wireless communication apparatus comprising: an adjustment unit that adjusts each use time zone of a frequency band to a timing at which each use time zone of the plurality of frequency bands by the second transmission unit does not match.

  In such a configuration, the first transmission unit and the second transmission unit transmit radio signals in parallel. Therefore, the wireless communication apparatus can obtain a larger transmission band than when a wireless signal is transmitted from only one transmission unit. Furthermore, the start timing of the predetermined frequency hopping pattern used by the second transmission unit is determined based on the use time period of each of the plurality of frequency bands by the first transmission unit and the plurality of the plurality of frequency bands by the second transmission unit. The adjustment unit adjusts at a timing at which the usage time zones of the frequency bands do not match. Therefore, interference between the radio signal transmitted from the first transmitter and the radio signal transmitted from the second transmitter can be suppressed. That is, according to the radio communication apparatus, it is possible to expand the transmission band while suppressing interference.

  The wireless communication apparatus further includes a generation unit that generates data indicating an adjustment amount by the adjustment unit of a start timing of the predetermined frequency hopping pattern used by the second transmission unit, and the generation unit generates the data The data may be transmitted from the first transmission unit or the second transmission unit. In such a configuration, it is possible for the receiving device of the wireless signal transmitted from the wireless communication device to grasp the adjustment amount based on the data generated by the generation unit and perform reception processing according to the adjustment amount. It becomes.

  Furthermore, the first transmission unit may transmit a preamble used for synchronization in the wireless signal reception destination device prior to transmission of the wireless signal. In such a configuration, for example, the receiver apparatus synchronizes the radio signal transmitted from the first transmission unit based on the preamble, and the radio signal transmitted from the second transmission unit based on the preamble and the adjustment amount. Can be synchronized.

  The wireless communication apparatus further includes a storage unit in which the predetermined frequency hopping pattern and the adjustment amount are recorded in association with each other, and the adjustment unit is based on the adjustment amount recorded in the storage unit. The start timing of the predetermined frequency hopping pattern used by the second transmission unit may be adjusted.

  In the storage unit, a plurality of adjustment amounts are recorded in association with the predetermined frequency hopping pattern, and the adjustment unit includes a plurality of adjustment amounts recorded in the storage unit. The start timing of the predetermined frequency hopping pattern used by the second transmission unit may be adjusted based on an adjustment amount corresponding to the used frequency hopping pattern. As a result, for example, interference between radio signals transmitted in the vicinity can be suppressed in addition to the radio signal transmitted from the second transmitter and the radio signal transmitted from the first transmitter.

  The wireless communication device includes a transmission buffer that temporarily holds transmission data transmitted as a radio signal by the first transmission unit, and a data amount of transmission data held in the transmission buffer exceeds a predetermined value. In this case, a determination unit that transmits a radio signal from the second transmission unit may be further included. In such a configuration, when the data amount of transmission data held in the transmission buffer exceeds a predetermined value, the transmission band of the wireless communication device is expanded. Therefore, even when the data amount of transmission data held in the transmission buffer exceeds a predetermined value, the transmission data can be transmitted quickly.

  The determination unit may end the transmission of the radio signal by the second transmission unit when the amount of transmission data held in the transmission buffer falls below a predetermined value.

  A first receiver for receiving a radio signal transmitted using a plurality of frequency bands according to a predetermined frequency hopping pattern; and a radio signal transmitted using a plurality of frequency bands according to the predetermined frequency hopping pattern. A second receiving unit for receiving and a wireless communication apparatus provided are provided. The start timing of the frequency hopping pattern of the radio signal received by the second receiving unit is the use time zone of each of the plurality of frequency bands of the radio signal received by the first receiving unit, and the second Is adjusted to a timing at which the use times of each of the plurality of frequency bands of the radio signal received by the receiver do not match. The first receiving unit or the second receiving unit receives data indicating an adjustment amount of a start timing of a frequency hopping pattern of a radio signal received by the second receiving unit. Further, the wireless communication device includes a reception control unit that controls reception processing by the second reception unit based on the adjustment amount.

  In such a configuration, the reception control unit controls the reception process by the second reception unit based on the data indicating the adjustment amount received by the first reception unit or the second reception unit. The receiving unit and the second receiving unit can receive radio signals in parallel. Therefore, according to the wireless communication apparatus, it is possible to expand the reception band.

  In order to solve the above problems, according to another aspect of the present invention, a wireless communication system including a first wireless communication device and a second wireless communication device capable of communicating with the first wireless communication device. Is provided. The first wireless communication apparatus uses a plurality of frequency bands in accordance with a first transmission unit that transmits a radio signal using a plurality of frequency bands in accordance with a predetermined frequency hopping pattern, and a plurality of frequency bands in accordance with the predetermined frequency hopping pattern. A second transmission unit that transmits a radio signal and a start timing of the predetermined frequency hopping pattern that is used by the second transmission unit are used as time periods of use of each of the plurality of frequency bands by the first transmission unit. And an adjustment unit that adjusts to a timing at which the use time zones of the plurality of frequency bands by the second transmission unit do not coincide with each other. In addition, the second wireless communication device receives a wireless signal transmitted from the first transmitter and a second receiver that receives a wireless signal transmitted from the second transmitter. And a receiving unit.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, according to another aspect of the present invention, a first transmission unit that transmits a radio signal using a plurality of frequency bands according to a predetermined frequency hopping pattern, and the predetermined frequency There is provided a program for causing a computer provided in a wireless communication apparatus including a second transmission unit that transmits a radio signal using a plurality of frequency bands according to a hopping pattern to function as an adjustment unit. The adjustment unit determines a start timing of the predetermined frequency hopping pattern used by the second transmission unit, a use time band of each of the plurality of frequency bands by the first transmission unit, and the second transmission. The timing is adjusted so that the use time zones of the plurality of frequency bands do not coincide with each other.

  Such a program can cause the hardware resources of a computer including, for example, a CPU, a ROM, or a RAM to execute the function of the adjustment unit as described above. That is, it is possible to cause a computer using the program to function as the adjustment unit described above.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, according to another aspect of the present invention, a first reception unit that receives a radio signal transmitted using a plurality of frequency bands in accordance with a predetermined frequency hopping pattern; A second receiving unit that receives a radio signal transmitted using a plurality of frequency bands in accordance with a predetermined frequency hopping pattern, and starts a frequency hopping pattern of the radio signal received by the second receiving unit The timing includes a use time zone of each of the plurality of frequency bands of the radio signal received by the first receiving unit and a time period of each of the plurality of frequency bands of the radio signal received by the second receiving unit. The first reception unit or the second reception unit is adjusted to a timing at which the usage time zone does not match. The frequency hopping of the radio signal received by the second reception unit is adjusted. A computer provided in the wireless communication device receiving the adjustment amount of the start timing of Gupatan, program for functioning as a reception control unit is provided. The reception control unit controls reception processing by the second reception unit based on the adjustment amount received by the first reception unit or the second reception unit.

  Such a program can cause a hardware resource of a computer including, for example, a CPU, a ROM, or a RAM to execute the function of the reception control unit described above. That is, a computer using the program can function as the above-described reception control unit.

  As described above, according to the wireless communication device, the wireless communication system, and the program according to the present invention, it is possible to expand the transmission band in one direction.

  Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, in this specification and drawing, about the component which has the substantially same function structure, duplication description is abbreviate | omitted by attaching | subjecting the same code | symbol.

Further, the “best mode for carrying out the invention” will be described according to the following item order.
[1] Overview of wireless communication system according to this embodiment [1-1] Configuration example of wireless communication system [1-2] Time division control [1-3] TFC code [2] Background to this embodiment [3] Detailed description of this embodiment [3-1] Outline of wireless communication according to this embodiment [3-2] Configuration of wireless communication device according to this embodiment [3-3] Wireless according to this embodiment Operation of communication equipment [4] Summary

[1] Overview of Radio Communication System According to this Embodiment [1-1] Configuration Example of Radio Communication System First, a configuration example of the radio communication system 1 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a wireless communication system 1 according to the present embodiment. Circles in FIG. 1 indicate the wireless communication devices 10A to 10G, and regions indicated by dotted lines indicate the radio wave reachable ranges 12A to 12G in which the wireless communication devices 10A to 10G can communicate.

  Specifically, the wireless communication device 10A can communicate with the wireless communication device 10B included in the radio wave reachable range 12A. The wireless communication device 10B can communicate between the wireless communication device 10A and the wireless communication device 10C included in the radio wave reachable range 12B. Similarly, the wireless communication device 10C can communicate with the wireless communication device 10B, the wireless communication device 10D, the wireless communication device 10F, and the wireless communication device 10G. Further, the wireless communication device 10D can communicate with the wireless communication device 10C, the wireless communication device 10E, and the wireless communication device 10F. The wireless communication device 10E can communicate with the wireless communication device 10D.

  The wireless communication device 10F can communicate with the wireless communication device 10C, the wireless communication device 10D, and the wireless communication device 10G included in the radio wave reachable range 12F. Similarly, the wireless communication device 10G can communicate with the wireless communication device 10C and the wireless communication device 10F.

  Each of such wireless communication devices 10A to 10G transmits and receives beacons as an example of communication management information at a predetermined period to form an autonomously distributed wireless network (ad hoc network). And each radio | wireless communication apparatus 10A-10G which comprises a radio | wireless network can transmit / receive various data. Various types of data include music data such as music, lectures, and radio programs, video data such as movies, television programs, video programs, photos, documents, pictures and charts, and arbitrary data such as games and software. It is done.

  In the following description, the radio communication devices 10A to 10G are collectively referred to simply as the radio communication device 10 and the radio wave reachable ranges 12A to 12G are simply referred to as the radio wave reachable range 12 when there is no need to distinguish between them. Further, FIG. 1 shows the wireless communication system 1, and simultaneously shows a wireless network. Therefore, it can be considered that the wireless communication system 1 and the wireless network can be used almost synonymously. However, since the term “network” generally refers to a structure including a link in addition to a node (wireless communication apparatus), the wireless network is considered to be different from the wireless communication system 1 in that it includes a link in addition to the wireless communication apparatuses 10A to 10G. You can also

  The wireless communication device 10 includes a PC (Personal Computer), a home video processing device (DVD recorder, VCR, etc.), a mobile phone, a PHS (Personal Handyphone System), a portable music playback device, a portable video processing device, It may be an information processing apparatus such as a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a home game machine, a portable game machine, or a home appliance.

[1-2] Time-sharing control The configuration example of the autonomous distributed wireless communication system 1 has been described above. Next, a superframe for time division control in the wireless communication system 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a superframe. The superframe period is defined by a predetermined time (for example, about 65 ms), and is subdivided into 256 media access slots (MAS). The wireless communication devices 10 constituting one wireless network share the super frame period as a frame of a predetermined period, and transfer of messages is performed in units of the subdivided MAS.

  Furthermore, at the head of the super frame, there is a beacon period (BP) as a management area for transmitting and receiving management information by a beacon (beacon signal), and a beacon slot (BS) is arranged at a predetermined interval. Yes. In addition, a unique beacon slot is set for each wireless communication device 10, and parameters for network management and access control are exchanged with surrounding wireless communication devices 10. FIG. 2 shows an example in which nine beacon slots BS0 to BS8 are set as the beacon period. The period that is not set as the beacon period is normally used as a data transmission area.

  FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram showing a beacon slot position of the own device set by each wireless communication device 10 when the wireless communication devices 10A to 10G form one wireless communication system. Here, each wireless communication device 10 constituting one wireless communication system 1 notifies the beacon slot that is not used in the beacon period, thereby selecting the beacon slot used by the device itself. .

  In the example illustrated in FIG. 3, the wireless communication device 10A transmits its own beacon at BS3, and the wireless communication device 10B transmits its own beacon at BS5. Similarly, the wireless communication device 10C transmits its beacon at BS2, and the wireless communication device 10D transmits its beacon at BS3. The wireless communication device 10E transmits its beacon at BS5. The wireless communication device 10F transmits its beacon at BS4, and the wireless communication device 10G transmits its beacon at BS6.

  In the example illustrated in FIG. 3, the wireless communication device 10A and the wireless communication device 10D use a common BS3, and the wireless communication device 10B and the wireless communication device 10E use a common BS5. However, since the wireless communication device 10A and the wireless communication device 10D are separated by 3 hops or more, and the wireless communication device 10B and the wireless communication device 10E are separated by 3 hops or more, a plurality of wireless communication devices use a common BS. However, there will be no practical hindrance.

  In addition, BS0, BS1, BS7, and BS8 are secured as necessary for a wireless communication apparatus that newly enters the wireless communication system 1. Usually, a predetermined number of empty beacon slots are provided behind the beacon slot of the own device. These empty beacon slots are prepared for new entry of new wireless communication devices.

[1-3] TFC Code Next, a TFC (Time Frequency Code) code will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5.

FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of the frequency channel of the multiband OFDM system. As shown in FIG. 4, Wimedia Alliance Multi
The Band OFDM PHY specification defines that a total of 14 subbands having a bandwidth of 528 KHz are arranged between 3.1 GHz and 10.6 GHz.

  In addition, the subbands are divided into three in order from the lowest frequency, and band group 1, band group 2, band group 3, and band group 4 are configured, and band group 5 is configured by the remaining two subbands. The

  A plurality of TFC codes 1 to 10 shown in FIG. 5 are configured by changing the frequency hopping pattern for each band group.

  FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a frequency hopping pattern of the TFC code. Specifically, FIG. 5A shows a frequency hopping pattern of TFC code 1, FIG. 5B shows a frequency hopping pattern of TFC code 2, FIG. 5C shows a frequency hopping pattern of TFC code 3, and FIG. 5D shows TFC code 4 5E shows the frequency hopping pattern of the TFC code 5, FIG. 5F shows the frequency hopping pattern of the TFC code 6, FIG. 5G shows the frequency hopping pattern of the TFC code 7, and FIG. 5H shows the TFC code. FIG. 5I shows the frequency hopping pattern of the TFC code 9, and FIG. 5J shows the frequency hopping pattern of the TFC code 10. FIG.

  The frequency hopping pattern is defined by a channel code called TFC. For example, when the channel is TFC code 1, as shown in FIG. 5A, the subbands used according to the rules of subband 1, subband 2, subband 3, subband 1, subband 2, and subband 3 are used. The band changes. Of the sub-bands constituting a certain band group, the sub-band having the lowest frequency band is sub-band 1, the sub-band having the highest frequency is sub-band 3, and is intermediate between sub-band 1 and sub-band 3. The subband may be subband 2.

  Also, as shown in FIG. 5B, when the channel is TFC code 2, it is used according to the rules of subband 1, subband 3, subband 2, subband 1, subband 3, and subband 2. Subband changes.

  As shown in FIG. 5C, when the channel is TFC code 3, the channel is used according to the rules of subband 1, subband 1, subband 2, subband 2, subband 3, and subband 3. Subband changes. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 5D, when the channel is TFC code 4, it is used according to the rules of subband 1, subband 1, subband 3, subband 3, subband 2, and subband 2. Subbands to be changed.

  Furthermore, in the multiband OFDM system, patterns that continue to use the same subband, such as TFC codes 5 to 7, are also prepared.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 5E, when the channel is TFC code 5, subband 1 is continuously used. As shown in FIG. 5F, when the channel is the TFC code 6, subband 2 is continuously used. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 5G, when the channel is TFC code 7, subband 3 is continuously used.

  Furthermore, a pattern for performing frequency hopping between two subbands, such as TFC codes 8 to 10, is also prepared.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5H, the TFC code 8 uses only subband 1 and subband 2 alternately. As shown in FIG. 5I, the TFC code 9 uses only subband 1 and subband 3 alternately. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 5J, the TFC code 10 uses only subbands 2 and 3 alternately. Thus, the frequency hopping pattern to be used is determined according to the TFC code to be set.

  In addition, a predetermined preamble sequence corresponding to each TFC code is prepared for the TFC code to be used. The preamble is a synchronization signal added to a signal to be transmitted / received. Note that the square frame shown in FIG. 5 group may be one OFDM symbol, or data transmitted in 312.5 ns seconds in time.

[2] Background to the Present Embodiment Conventionally, in the multiband OFDM system, as described in “[1-3] TFC code”, a radio signal is transmitted according to a specific frequency hopping pattern specified by one TFC code. A method of sending was defined. Further, in the conventional multiband OFDM system, by defining a plurality of TFC codes, it is said that a plurality of wireless communication apparatuses can coexist when different TFC codes are used. That is, a certain wireless communication device cannot decode a wireless signal transmitted by another wireless communication device even when another wireless communication device using a different TFC code exists in the vicinity. Was thought to be able to coexist with.

  On the other hand, since the same preamble pattern is specified for wireless communication devices using the same TFC code, a method has been defined in which wireless communication devices using the same TFC code form a spatially identical network. . Specifically, a method of entering a wireless network when a wireless network is detected around the device itself by performing a scanning operation for a predetermined period after the wireless communication device is turned on has been defined.

  In addition, WiMedia Distributed MAC Layer Specification describes a method for maintaining and synchronizing a network by exchanging beacons in a predetermined beacon period between wireless communication apparatuses. The beacon period for exchanging the beacons is set at the head of the superframe period as described in “[1-2] Time-sharing control”. Further, in WiMedia Distributed MAC Layer Specification, a method in which all wireless communication devices operating with the same TFC code transmit and receive beacons in one beacon period is defined.

  In addition, when two wireless networks are formed in different spaces with the same TFC code and the two wireless networks are close to each other due to movement of a user or the like, an operation of merging into one wireless network has been defined. Specifically, until a predetermined period elapses, a reservation called beacon period protection is set for the purpose of protecting the other party's beacon period, and a different beacon period exists even if the predetermined period elapses. Are combined in one beacon period.

  In addition, the WiMedia Distributed MAC Layer Specification defines an access control method using time division multiplexing, and the communication can be performed with the TFC code until use is filled in all time division multiplexing slots (MAS). It was.

  In the wireless communication system based on IEEE802.11, a method for realizing high-speed communication using a plurality of frequency bands is currently being standardized in task group N (subcommittee: N). As a method for realizing high-speed communication in the task group N, a method of doubling the bandwidth by using a plurality of bands has been devised.

  However, in the conventional conventional multiband OFDM system, as shown in FIG. 6 group, it is difficult for one wireless communication apparatus to normally transmit wireless signals in a multiplexed manner using the same frequency hopping pattern. there were.

  FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing problems when one radio communication apparatus transmits radio signals in a multiplexed manner using the same frequency hopping pattern. In FIG. 6 group, the frequency hopping pattern of the radio signal of one system is indicated by a thick line, and the frequency hopping pattern of the radio signal of another system is indicated by a normal line.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 6A, when one radio communication apparatus transmits radio signals in a multiple manner using a frequency hopping pattern defined by TFC code 1, the same subband is used at the same timing. That is, two radio signals interfere. Such interference occurs remarkably when the start timing shift of each frequency hopping pattern is less than one symbol. Therefore, the receiving apparatus cannot separate multiplexed radio signals and cannot correctly decode them. Such a problem also occurs in the TFC code 2.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 6B, when one wireless communication apparatus transmits a wireless signal in a multiplexed manner using a frequency hopping pattern defined by the TFC code 3, the same subband is used at the same timing. The Such interference occurs remarkably when the start timing shift of each frequency hopping pattern is less than one symbol. Therefore, the receiving apparatus cannot separate multiplexed radio signals and cannot correctly decode them. Such a problem also occurs in the TFC code 4.

  As shown in FIG. 6C, when one radio communication apparatus transmits radio signals in a multiple manner using a frequency hopping pattern defined by the TFC code 8, the same subband is used at the same timing. The Such interference occurs remarkably when the start timing shift of each frequency hopping pattern is less than one symbol. Therefore, the receiving apparatus cannot separate multiplexed radio signals and cannot correctly decode them. Such a problem also occurs in the TFC codes 9 and 10.

  As described above, when one wireless communication device transmits a wireless signal in a multiplexed manner using the same frequency hopping pattern, the multiplexed wireless signals interfere with each other, and the wireless signal can be accurately decoded at the reception destination. could not. Even if the multiplexed radio signals do not interfere with each other, the radio signal cannot be accurately decoded at the receiving destination.

  This problem is caused by the same preamble being defined to identify the same frequency hopping pattern as shown in FIG.

  FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing a shift in the preamble period of the multiplexed radio signal. As shown in FIG. 7, when one radio communication apparatus uses the same frequency hopping pattern and transmits radio signals in a multiplexed manner so as not to cause interference, the radio signals shift to preamble periods 1 and 2 of the two radio signals. Occurs. Here, the receiving apparatus can only synchronize with the preamble that has been decoded earlier. Therefore, it is difficult for the receiving apparatus to synchronize with the preamble received in the preamble period 2, and multiplexed transmission cannot be performed.

  Further, in the WiMedia Distributed MAC Layer Specification, when there are different networks operating with the same TFC code, complicated processing for protecting the other party's beacon period is performed.

  Conventionally, in many wireless communication systems, a method of performing communication by multiplexing one system has been studied, but a configuration that physically uses a plurality of bands has been common. For example, the method of doubling the bandwidth by using a plurality of bands in the task group N of the IEEE 802.11 system simply doubles the bandwidth, so that it is necessary to ensure compatibility with the conventional system. It was. Furthermore, in the case of using twice the bandwidth, there is a problem that only the time when both bands can be used can be used for effective communication, and a substantial reduction in throughput has been regarded as a problem.

  In addition, in the ultra-wideband communication system, since extremely weak signals are used, there is a problem that it is difficult to use carrier sense multiplexing defined as an IEEE 802.11-based multiplexing protocol.

  Accordingly, the wireless communication device 10 according to the present embodiment has been created with the above-described circumstances as a focus. According to the wireless communication apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment, it is possible to expand the transmission band while suppressing interference. Hereinafter, such a wireless communication device 10 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[3] Detailed Description of the Present Embodiment [3-1] Outline of Wireless Communication According to the Present Embodiment First, referring to FIG. 8 group, wirelessly transmitted by the wireless communication device 10 according to the present embodiment in a multiplexed manner. The usage state of each subband of the signal will be described.

  FIG. 8A is an explanatory diagram showing how radio signals are multiplexed using a frequency hopping pattern defined by TFC code 1. FIG. As illustrated in FIG. 8A, the wireless communication device 10 according to the present embodiment starts transmitting the wireless signal of the system indicated by the bold line after transmitting the preamble corresponding to the TFC code 1.

  Then, when the time for one symbol elapses as the multiplex adjustment interval (adjustment amount), the wireless communication device 10 starts transmitting the wireless signal of the system indicated by the normal line. As a result, since the subbands of both radio signals do not match, it is possible to separate both radio signals at the receiving device and accurately decode both radio signals.

  In FIG. 8A, an example is shown in which transmission of a wireless signal of a system indicated by a normal line is started after transmission of a wireless signal of a system indicated by a bold line is started. It is not limited. For example, the transmission of the wireless signal of the system indicated by the normal line may be started using the subband 3 simultaneously with the start of the transmission of the wireless signal of the system indicated by the thick line. That is, the subband of one radio signal is changed in the order of 1, 2, 3, 1, 2, 3, and the subband of the other radio signal is changed in the order of 3, 1, 2, 3, 1, 2, and so on. Multiplexing may be realized by changing in the above.

  FIG. 8B is an explanatory diagram showing a state where radio signals are multiplexed using a frequency hopping pattern defined by TFC code 2. As illustrated in FIG. 8B, the wireless communication device 10 according to the present embodiment starts transmitting the wireless signal of the system indicated by the bold line after transmitting the preamble corresponding to the TFC code 2.

  Then, when the time for one symbol elapses as the multiplex adjustment interval, the wireless communication device 10 starts transmitting the wireless signal of the system indicated by the normal line. As a result, since the subbands of both radio signals do not match, it is possible to separate both radio signals at the receiving device and accurately decode both radio signals.

  In FIG. 8B, an example is shown in which transmission of wireless signals of the system indicated by the normal line is started after transmission of wireless signals of the system indicated by the thick line is started. It is not limited. For example, the transmission of the wireless signal of the system indicated by the normal line may be started using the subband 2 simultaneously with the start of the transmission of the wireless signal of the system indicated by the thick line. That is, the subband of one radio signal is changed in the order of 1, 3, 2, 1, 3, 2, and the subband of the other radio signal is changed in the order of 2, 1, 3, 2, 1, 3, Multiplexing may be realized by changing in the above.

  FIG. 8C is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which radio signals are multiplexed using a frequency hopping pattern defined by TFC code 3. As illustrated in FIG. 8C, the wireless communication device 10 according to the present embodiment starts transmitting the wireless signal of the system indicated by the bold line after transmitting the preamble corresponding to the TFC code 3.

  Then, when the time corresponding to two symbols elapses as the multiplex adjustment interval, the wireless communication device 10 starts transmitting the wireless signal of the system indicated by the normal line. As a result, since the subbands of both radio signals do not match, it is possible to separate both radio signals at the receiving device and accurately decode both radio signals.

  In FIG. 8C, an example is shown in which transmission of wireless signals of the system indicated by the normal line is started after transmission of wireless signals of the system indicated by the thick line is started. It is not limited. For example, the transmission of the wireless signal of the system indicated by the normal line may be started using the subband 3 simultaneously with the start of the transmission of the wireless signal of the system indicated by the thick line. That is, the subband of one radio signal is changed in the order of 1, 1, 2, 2, 3, 3, and the subband of the other radio signal is changed in the order of 3, 3, 1, 1, 2, 2, Multiplexing may be realized by changing in the above.

  FIG. 8D is an explanatory diagram showing how radio signals are multiplexed using a frequency hopping pattern defined by the TFC code 4. As illustrated in FIG. 8D, the wireless communication device 10 according to the present embodiment starts transmitting the wireless signal of the system indicated by the thick line after transmitting the preamble corresponding to the TFC code 4.

  Then, when the time corresponding to two symbols elapses as the multiplex adjustment interval, the wireless communication device 10 starts transmitting the wireless signal of the system indicated by the normal line. As a result, since the subbands of both radio signals do not match, it is possible to separate both radio signals at the receiving device and accurately decode both radio signals.

  In FIG. 8D, an example is shown in which transmission of wireless signals of the system indicated by the normal line is started after transmission of wireless signals of the system indicated by the thick line is started. It is not limited. For example, the transmission of the wireless signal of the system indicated by the normal line may be started using the subband 2 simultaneously with the start of the transmission of the wireless signal of the system indicated by the thick line. That is, the subband of one radio signal is changed in the order of 1, 1, 3, 3, 2, 2, and the subband of the other radio signal is changed in the order of 2, 2, 1, 1, 3, 3, Multiplexing may be realized by changing in the above.

  FIG. 8E is an explanatory diagram showing another state in which radio signals are multiplexed using a frequency hopping pattern defined by TFC code 3. As illustrated in FIG. 8E, the wireless communication device 10 according to the present embodiment starts transmitting the wireless signal of the system indicated by the bold line after transmitting the preamble corresponding to the TFC code 3.

  Then, when the time for 3 symbols elapses as the multiple adjustment interval, the wireless communication device 10 starts transmitting the wireless signal of the system indicated by the normal line. As a result, since the subbands of both radio signals do not match, it is possible to separate both radio signals at the receiving device and accurately decode both radio signals.

  In FIG. 8E, an example is shown in which transmission of the wireless signal of the system indicated by the normal line is started after transmission of the wireless signal of the system indicated by the thick line is started. It is not limited. For example, the transmission of the wireless signal of the system indicated by the normal line may be started using the subband 2 simultaneously with the start of the transmission of the wireless signal of the system indicated by the thick line. That is, the subband of one radio signal is changed in the order 1, 1, 2, 2, 3, 3, and the subband of the other radio signal is changed in the order 2, 3, 3, 1, 1, 2, and so on. Multiplexing may be realized by changing in the above.

  FIG. 8F is an explanatory diagram showing another state in which radio signals are multiplexed using the frequency hopping pattern defined by the TFC code 4. As illustrated in FIG. 8F, the wireless communication device 10 according to the present embodiment starts transmitting the wireless signal of the system indicated by the bold line after transmitting the preamble corresponding to the TFC code 4.

  Then, when the time for 3 symbols elapses as the multiple adjustment interval, the wireless communication device 10 starts transmitting the wireless signal of the system indicated by the normal line. As a result, since the subbands of both radio signals do not match, it is possible to separate both radio signals at the receiving device and accurately decode both radio signals.

  In FIG. 8F, an example is shown in which transmission of the wireless signal of the system indicated by the normal line is started after transmission of the wireless signal of the system indicated by the bold line is started. It is not limited. For example, the transmission of the wireless signal of the system indicated by the normal line may be started using the subband 3 simultaneously with the start of the transmission of the wireless signal of the system indicated by the thick line. That is, the subband of one radio signal is changed in the order of 1, 1, 3, 3, 2, 2, and the subband of the other radio signal is changed in the order of 3, 2, 2, 1, 1, 3, Multiplexing may be realized by changing in the above.

  FIG. 8G is an explanatory diagram showing how radio signals are multiplexed using a frequency hopping pattern defined by the TFC code 8. As illustrated in FIG. 8G, the wireless communication device 10 according to the present embodiment starts transmitting a wireless signal of the system indicated by the bold line after transmitting the preamble corresponding to the TFC code 8.

  Then, when the time for one symbol elapses as the multiplex adjustment interval, the wireless communication device 10 starts transmitting the wireless signal of the system indicated by the normal line. As a result, since the subbands of both radio signals do not match, it is possible to separate both radio signals at the receiving device and accurately decode both radio signals.

  In FIG. 8G, an example is shown in which transmission of the wireless signal of the system indicated by the normal line is started after transmission of the wireless signal of the system indicated by the thick line is started. It is not limited. For example, the transmission of the wireless signal of the system indicated by the normal line may be started using the subband 2 simultaneously with the start of the transmission of the wireless signal of the system indicated by the thick line. That is, the subband of one radio signal is changed in the order of 1, 2, 1, 2, 1, 2, and the subband of the other radio signal is changed in the order of 2, 1, 2, 1, 2, 1. Multiplexing may be realized by changing in the above.

  FIG. 8H is an explanatory diagram showing how radio signals are multiplexed using a frequency hopping pattern defined by the TFC code 9. As illustrated in FIG. 8H, the wireless communication device 10 according to the present embodiment starts transmitting the wireless signal of the system indicated by the thick line after transmitting the preamble corresponding to the TFC code 9.

  Then, when the time for one symbol elapses as the multiplex adjustment interval, the wireless communication device 10 starts transmitting the wireless signal of the system indicated by the normal line. As a result, since the subbands of both radio signals do not match, it is possible to separate both radio signals at the receiving device and accurately decode both radio signals.

  8H shows an example in which transmission of the wireless signal of the system indicated by the normal line is started after transmission of the wireless signal of the system indicated by the thick line is started, but the present embodiment is related to this example. It is not limited. For example, the transmission of the wireless signal of the system indicated by the normal line may be started using the subband 3 simultaneously with the start of the transmission of the wireless signal of the system indicated by the thick line. That is, the subband of one radio signal is changed in the order of 1, 3, 1, 3, 1, 3, and the subband of the other radio signal is changed in the order of 3, 1, 3, 1, 3, 1, Multiplexing may be realized by changing in the above.

  FIG. 8I is an explanatory diagram showing how radio signals are multiplexed using a frequency hopping pattern defined by the TFC code 10. As illustrated in FIG. 8I, the wireless communication device 10 according to the present embodiment starts transmitting a wireless signal of a system indicated by a bold line after transmitting a preamble corresponding to the TFC code 10.

  Then, when the time for one symbol elapses as the multiplex adjustment interval, the wireless communication device 10 starts transmitting the wireless signal of the system indicated by the normal line. As a result, since the subbands of both radio signals do not match, it is possible to separate both radio signals at the receiving device and accurately decode both radio signals.

  In FIG. 8I, an example is shown in which transmission of the wireless signal of the system indicated by the normal line is started after transmission of the wireless signal of the system indicated by the thick line is started. It is not limited. For example, the transmission of the wireless signal of the system indicated by the normal line may be started using the subband 3 simultaneously with the start of the transmission of the wireless signal of the system indicated by the thick line. That is, the subband of one radio signal is changed in the order of 2, 3, 2, 3, 2, 3, and the subband of the other radio signal is changed in the order of 3, 2, 3, 2, 3, 2. Multiplexing may be realized by changing in the above.

[3-2] Configuration of Radio Communication Device According to Present Embodiment As described above, with reference to FIG. 8 group, the usage state of each subband of the radio signal transmitted in a multiplexed manner by the radio communication device 10 according to the present embodiment. Explained. Next, the configuration of the wireless communication device 10 that enables transmission of such a wireless signal will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10.

  FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing the configuration of the wireless communication device 10 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 9, the wireless communication device 10 includes an interface 101, a transmission data storage unit 102, a first wireless transmission unit 103, a preamble / header setting unit 104, a first antenna 105, Multiplexing necessity determination unit 106, multiplexing timing adjustment unit 107, second radio transmission unit 108, second antenna 109, preamble header detection unit 110, first radio reception unit 111, Beacon information analysis unit 112, reservation information control unit 113, reservation information setting unit 114, beacon information generation unit 115, multiplexing request processing unit 116, reception timing adjustment unit 117, and second radio reception unit 118 And a received data storage unit 119.

  The interface 101 is an input / output unit for an application device connected to the wireless communication device 10 or an application device integrated with the wireless communication device 10. For example, transmission data for transmission from the wireless communication apparatus 10 is input to the interface 101, and reception data received by the wireless communication apparatus 10 is output from the interface 101.

  The transmission data storage unit 102 has a function as a transmission buffer that temporarily stores transmission data input from an application device via the interface 101.

  The first wireless transmission unit 103 has a function as a first transmission unit that modulates transmission data held in the transmission data storage unit 102 in accordance with a frequency hopping pattern defined by a certain TFC code. For example, the first wireless transmission unit 103 modulates a subband corresponding to a frequency hopping pattern with transmission data held in the transmission data storage unit 102.

  The preamble header setting unit 104 adds predetermined header information and preamble to the transmission data modulated by the first wireless transmission unit 103. The transmission data to which the predetermined header information and preamble are added by the preamble header setting unit 104 in this way is transmitted from the first antenna 105.

  The multiplexing necessity determination unit 106 has a function as a determination unit that determines whether transmission of a wireless signal from the second wireless transmission unit 108 is necessary, that is, whether multiplexing of a wireless signal is necessary.

  For example, the multiplexing necessity determination unit 106 determines that multiplexing is necessary when the amount of untransmitted transmission data held in the transmission data storage unit 102 exceeds a predetermined amount, and sets the predetermined amount. If it falls below, it may be determined that multiplexing is unnecessary. In such a configuration, when the amount of untransmitted transmission data held in the transmission data storage unit 102 exceeds a predetermined value, the transmission band of the wireless communication device 10 is expanded. Therefore, even when the amount of transmission data held in the transmission data storage unit 102 exceeds a predetermined value, the transmission data can be transmitted quickly.

  Alternatively, the multiplexing necessity determination unit 106 determines that multiplexing is necessary when the increase rate of untransmitted transmission data held in the transmission data storage unit 102 exceeds a predetermined rate, and sets the predetermined rate. If it falls below, it may be determined that multiplexing is unnecessary.

  In such a configuration, when the increase rate of untransmitted transmission data held in the transmission data storage unit 102 exceeds a predetermined rate, the transmission band of the wireless communication device 10 is expanded. Therefore, even if the increase rate of the transmission data held in the transmission data storage unit 102 exceeds a predetermined rate, overflow of untransmitted transmission data in the transmission data storage unit 102 can be prevented.

  The multiplexing necessity determination unit 106 has a function as a storage unit that stores a frequency hopping pattern and a multiplexing adjustment interval in association with each other. That is, as shown in FIG. 8, the multiplexing necessity determination unit 106 stores a frequency hopping pattern and a multiplexing adjustment interval that can suppress interference when multiplexing is performed using the frequency hopping pattern in association with each other. .

  For example, the multiplexing necessity determination unit 106 stores a time corresponding to one OFDM symbol as a frequency hopping pattern defined by the TFC code 1 and a multiplexing adjustment interval. Similarly, the multiplexing necessity determination unit 106 performs the frequency hopping pattern defined by the TFC code 2 and the time for one OFDM symbol, the frequency hopping pattern defined by the TFC code 3 and the time for two or three OFDM symbols, the TFC code Frequency hopping pattern defined by 4 and time for 2 or 3 OFDM symbols, frequency hopping pattern defined by TFC code 8 and time for 1 OFDM symbol, frequency hopping pattern defined by TFC code 9 and time for 1 OFDM symbol The frequency hopping pattern defined by the TFC code 10 and the time for one OFDM symbol are stored in association with each other.

  The multiplexing necessity determination unit 106 is a nonvolatile memory such as an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) or an EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), a hard disk, a disk type magnetic disk, or the like. CD-R (Compact Disc Recordable) / RW (ReWriteable), DVD-R (Digital Versatile Disc Recordable) / RW / + R / + RW / RAM (Random Access Memory) and BD (Blu-R) (registered trademark) / BD-RE and other optical disks, MO (Magneto A storage medium such as an optical disk may be incorporated, and the frequency hopping pattern and the multiple adjustment interval may be recorded on the storage medium.

  Further, if the multiplexing necessity determination unit 106 determines that the radio signal needs to be multiplexed, the multiplexing timing adjustment unit 107 associates it with the frequency hopping pattern to be used by the second radio transmission unit 108. Output multiple adjustment interval. For example, when the frequency hopping pattern defined by the TFC code 1 is used by the first wireless transmission unit 103, the multiplexing necessity determination unit 106 outputs the time for one OFDM symbol to the multiplexing timing adjustment unit 107. To do.

  Furthermore, when the plurality of times are associated with the frequency hopping pattern used by the second wireless transmission unit 108, the multiplexing necessity determination unit 106 performs multiplexing according to the frequency hopping pattern used in the surroundings. The time to be output to the timing adjustment unit 107 may be selected.

  For example, the frequency hopping pattern defined by TFC code 3 and the time corresponding to 2 or 3 OFDM symbols are associated with each other. Here, when the time for 2 OFDM symbols is used as the multiplexing adjustment interval, as shown in FIG. 8C, even if the frequency hopping pattern defined by the TFC code 3 is further multiplexed, no interference occurs depending on the timing. I understand. Therefore, when the frequency hopping pattern defined by the TFC code 3 is used in the wireless communication apparatus 10 and the surroundings, the multiplexing necessity determination unit 106 sends the time for 2 OFDM symbols to the multiplexing timing adjustment unit 107. May be output.

  On the other hand, when the time for 3 OFDM symbols is used as the multiplexing adjustment interval, as shown in FIG. 8E, even if the frequency hopping pattern defined by TFC code 2 is further multiplexed, interference may not occur depending on the timing. I understand. Therefore, when the wireless communication device 10 uses the frequency hopping pattern defined by the TFC code 3 and the frequency hopping pattern defined by the TFC code 2 is used around, the multiplexing necessity determination unit 106 A time corresponding to 3 OFDM symbols may be output.

  The multiplexing timing adjustment unit 107 controls the first radio transmission unit 103 and the second radio transmission unit 108 based on the multiplexing adjustment interval output from the multiplexing necessity determination unit 106. For example, the multiplexing timing adjustment unit 107 is configured such that the start timing of the frequency hopping pattern used by the second radio transmission unit 108 is the first radio transmission unit 103 for the multiplexing adjustment interval output from the multiplexing necessity determination unit 106. Control to be delayed more.

  The second radio transmission unit 108 has a function as a second transmission unit that modulates transmission data held in the transmission data storage unit 102 based on the control of the multiplexing timing adjustment unit 107. The transmission data modulated by the second radio transmission unit 108 is transmitted as a radio signal from the second antenna 109. Although a plurality of antennas (105 and 109) are shown in FIG. 9, the number of antennas provided in the wireless communication apparatus 10 may be one. In this case, after the transmission data modulated by the first radio transmission unit 103 and the transmission data modulated by the second radio transmission unit 108 are superimposed in the radio communication device 10, a radio signal is transmitted from a single antenna. As sent.

  The functions of the multiplexing necessity determination unit 106 and the multiplexing timing adjustment unit 107 as described above allow the second radio transmission unit 108 to perform radio communication so that the subbands used with the first radio transmission unit 103 do not interfere with each other. A signal can be transmitted. That is, according to the wireless communication device 10, it is possible to expand the transmission band while suppressing interference.

  The preamble / header detection unit 110 detects predetermined preamble and header information from the radio signals received by the first antenna 105 and the second antenna 109.

  The first radio reception unit 111 has a function as a first reception unit that performs reception processing of a radio signal transmitted according to a certain frequency hopping pattern. For example, the first radio reception unit 111 may down-convert a radio signal according to a certain frequency hopping pattern, convert the radio signal into a baseband signal, and extract a bit string as reception data from the baseband signal.

  The reception data storage unit 119 has a function as a reception buffer that temporarily stores reception data received by the first wireless reception unit 111 and the second wireless reception unit 118. The reception data held in the reception data storage unit 119 is output to the application device via the interface 101.

  The beacon information analysis unit 112 analyzes information described in the beacon received by the first wireless reception unit 111. The reservation information control unit 113 analyzes the DRP reservation information among the information described in the beacon, and manages the status of the slot in use and the empty slot. When the reservation information control unit 113 analyzes that the reservation request addressed to the device itself is described, the reservation information setting unit 114 sets the reservation requested slot. The beacon information generation unit 115 has a function as a generation unit that generates received beacon slot information and a beacon in which a multiple adjustment interval is described. A configuration example of a beacon generated by the beacon information generation unit 115 will be described later with reference to FIG.

  The multiplexing request processing unit 116 performs processing for supporting multiplexing when a communication partner requests multiplexing of a radio signal. Specifically, the multiplexing request processing unit 116 outputs information indicating the multiplexing adjustment interval included in the received beacon to the reception timing adjusting unit 117.

  The reception timing adjustment unit 117 controls the reception process by the second radio reception unit 118 based on the multiplexing adjustment interval output from the multiplexing request processing unit 116. For example, the reception timing adjustment unit 117 causes the start timing of the frequency hopping pattern used by the second radio reception unit 118 to decode the radio signal to be delayed by the multiple adjustment interval from the first radio reception unit 111. Control.

  The second radio reception unit 118 has a function as a second reception unit that performs reception processing of radio signals received by the first antenna 105 and the second antenna 109 based on control by the reception timing adjustment unit 117. Have.

  The function of the wireless communication apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment has been described above with reference to FIG. Next, the configuration of each frame used for realizing the function of the wireless communication device 10 will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a frame configuration of a radio signal transmitted from the radio communication device 10. More specifically, FIG. 10A is an explanatory diagram showing a typical frame configuration example, FIG. 10B is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a MAC header, and FIG. 10C is a configuration of a payload included in a beacon frame. 10D is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a beacon parameter, FIG. 10E is an explanatory diagram illustrating an exemplary configuration of a beacon period use information element, and FIG. 10F is an example of DRP reservation information. FIG. 10G is an explanatory diagram showing a configuration example of a multiple-usable information element.

  As shown in FIG. 10A, a general frame includes a preamble 32, a PHY header 33, a MAC header 34, an HCS 35, a data payload 36, and an FCS 37. The preamble 32 is a signal having a known fixed pattern that is different for each TFC code.

  The PHY header 33 describes information on the physical rate of the data payload 36, and the MAC header 34 describes the frame source and destination address. An HCS (header check sequence) 35 is added to detect an error in the header portion.

  The data payload 36 is user data configured at an arbitrary physical rate, and an FCS (frame check sequence) 37 is added to detect an error in the data payload 36 portion.

  With such a basic frame configuration, a beacon frame, a data frame, an ACK (ACKnowledgement) frame, and the like are configured.

  10B, the MAC header 34 includes frame control information (Frame Control) 41, destination address information (DestAddr) 42, source address information (SrcAddr) 43, and sequence control information (Sequence Control) 44. , And access control information 45 (Access Information).

  Further, the frame control information 41 includes a protocol version 57, a secure identification 56, an acknowledgment (ACK Policy) 55, a frame format 54, a quasi-frame format / carrier identifier (Frame Subtype). / Delivery ID) 53, retransmission identification (Retry) 52, and multiplexing position (Multiplex Offset) 51 are included.

  At this multiplexing position 51, the difference between the multiplex adjustment interval, that is, the start timing of the frequency hopping pattern used by the second radio transmission unit 108 and the start timing of the frequency hopping pattern used by the first radio transmission unit 103. Is described.

  For example, when the frequency hopping pattern defined by the TFC code 1 or 2 is used, if the description of the multiplexing position 51 is “00”, it indicates that multiplexing is not performed. If the description of the multiplexing position 51 is “01”, it indicates that the multiplexing adjustment interval is 1 OFDM symbol, and “10” indicates that the multiplexing adjustment interval is 2 OFDM symbols. Furthermore, if the description of the multiplexing position 51 is “11”, it indicates that both the 1 OFDM symbol and the 2 OFDM symbol are used as the multiplexing adjustment interval. In this case, a radio signal using the frequency hopping pattern is transmitted at the start timing of the frequency hopping pattern used by the first radio transmission unit 103 and the start timing having a difference between 1 OFDM symbol and 2 OFDM symbols.

  Further, when the frequency hopping pattern defined by the TFC code 3 or 4 is used, if the description of the multiplexing position 51 is “00”, it indicates that multiplexing is not performed. Further, if the description of the multiplexing position 51 is “01”, it indicates that the multiplexing adjustment interval is 2 OFDM symbols, and “10” indicates that the multiplexing adjustment interval is 4 OFDM symbols. Furthermore, if the description of the multiplexing position 51 is “11”, it indicates that the multiplexing adjustment interval uses both 2 OFDM symbols and 4 OFDM symbols. In this case, a radio signal using the frequency hopping pattern is transmitted at the start timing of the frequency hopping pattern used by the first radio transmission unit 103 and the start timing having a difference between 2 OFDM symbols and 4 OFDM symbols. The description of the multiplexing position 51 of “11” may indicate that the multiplexing adjustment interval is 3 OFDM symbols.

  When the reception destination device confirms the description of the multiplexing position 51, the reception timing adjustment unit 117 of the reception destination device receives the wireless signal reception process in synchronization with the wireless signal transmitted to the second wireless reception unit 118. Can be performed.

  Also, as shown in FIG. 10C, the beacon payload 60 includes a beacon parameter (Beacon Parameter) 61 that describes parameters unique to the wireless communication device 10 and a beacon period usage information element (a beacon slot usage information element ( BPO IE) 62 is always added. Furthermore, an arbitrary information element is added to the beacon payload 60.

  For example, in FIG. 10C, a DRP reservation information element (DRP IE) 63 in which information of a reserved slot for performing communication is described in the beacon payload 60, and a TFC multiple use information element (Multiplex IE) for notifying whether or not multiplex communication is necessary are shown. ) 64 is shown. Further, other information elements and the like are added to the beacon payload 60 as necessary. In other words, when the wireless communication device 10 transmits a wireless signal using the second wireless transmission unit 108, the beacon payload in which the beacon information generation unit 115 is multiplexed into the TFC multiple usage information element is described. 60 is generated.

  10D, the beacon parameter 61 includes a device identifier (Device Identifier) 71, a beacon slot number (Beacon Slot Number) 72, and device control information (Device Control) 73.

  Further, the device control information 73 includes a movement identification (Mobile) 77, a notification slot (Signaling) 76, a multiplexed TFC code (Multiplex TFC Information) 75, a secure mode (Secure Mode) 74, and the like.

  The multiplexed TFC code 75 indicates a TFC code that can coexist with the multiplexed TFC code. For example, if the multiplexed TFC code 75 has the same numerical value as that of the current TFC code, it indicates that communication multiplexed with the same TFC code is possible.

  On the other hand, when the wireless communication device 10 is operating with the TFC code 3, the description of the multiplexed TFC code 75 of “2” indicates that the wireless communication device 10 and the wireless communication device 10 operating with the TFC code 2 can coexist. . Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8E, when the wireless communication device 10 multiplexes and transmits a wireless signal, a frequency hopping pattern defined by the TFC code 2 can be used.

  In addition, when the wireless communication device 10 is operating with the TFC code 4, the description of the multiplexed TFC code 75 of “1” indicates that the wireless communication device 10 and the wireless communication device 10 operating with the TFC code 1 can coexist. Show. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8F, when the wireless communication device 10 multiplexes and transmits a wireless signal, a frequency hopping pattern defined by the TFC code 1 can be used.

  If communication multiplexed with the same TFC code is not possible, “0000” is described in the multiplexed TFC code 75, and compatibility with conventional systems can be maintained.

  As shown in FIG. 10E, the beacon period usage information element 62 includes an identifier (Element ID) 81 for identifying the type of information element described below, and an information length (Length) 82 of the information element. Following this, the parameters of the information element are described.

  Specifically, the beacon period length (BP Length) 83 known by the own device, the beacon slot information (Beacon Slot Info Bitmap) 84 for reporting the usage status of the beacon slot, and the beacon slot are used. A device address 1 (DevAddr 1) 85 to an address N (DevAddr N) 86 indicating the active device are described.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 10F, the DRP reservation information element 63 includes an identifier (Element ID) 91 for identifying the type of information element described below, and an information length (Length) 92 of the information element. Subsequently, parameters of the information element are described.

  Specifically, reservation control information (DRP Control) 93 describing the type of DRP reservation, reservation status, etc., target / owner device address (Target / Owner DevAddr) 94 for identifying the partner of the reservation, actually A reservation allocation 1 (DRP Allocation 1) 95 to a reservation allocation N (DRP Allocation N) 96 indicating the MAS to be reserved are described.

  Furthermore, the reservation control information 93 includes a reservation type (Reservation Type) 149, stream information (Stream Index) 148, an event code (Reason Code) 147, a reservation state (Reservation Status) 146, an owner identification (Owner) 145, and a conflict time Included is a superiority / inferiority information (Conflict Tie-Breaker) 144, an unsafe (Unsafe) 143, a multiplexing request (Multiplex Request) 142 and a multiplexing interval (Offset Symbol) 141. The multiplexing interval 141 may be substantially the same parameter as the multiplexing position 51 shown with reference to FIG. 10B.

  Based on the DRP reservation information element 63, the wireless communication device 10 can notify the MAS and the multiplexing adjustment interval to be multiplexed with the communication partner in advance.

  Also, as shown in FIG. 10G, the multi-usable information element 150 includes an identifier (Element ID) 151 for identifying the type of information element described below, and an information length (Length) 152 of the information element. Following this, the parameters of the information element are described. Specifically, a multiplex available slot bitmap (Multiplex Availability MAS Bitmap) 153 is described. The multiplexing usable slot bitmap 153 is information representing MAS that can multiplex radio signals and perform communication in a bitmap format.

[3-3] Operation of Wireless Communication Device According to Present Embodiment The configuration of the wireless communication device 10 according to the present embodiment has been described above with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10. Next, the operation of the wireless communication apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 and 12.

  FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram showing a flow of a wireless communication method executed in the wireless communication apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment. In FIG. 11, the flow until the wireless communication device 10A forming the wireless network without multiplexing initially multiplexes the TFC code and performs communication and the flow until the multiplexing is canceled are shown. Show.

  First, as shown in FIG. 11, the wireless communication devices 10A and 10B form a wireless network while exchanging beacons using the same TFC code during a predetermined beacon period (S202, S204). Here, when the wireless communication device 10A as the transmission source receives the transmission data (S206), the reservation information setting unit 114 sets a DRP reservation request with a normal TFC code (S208). And the beacon information generation part 115 produces | generates the beacon containing the DRP reservation request according to the set content, and the said beacon is transmitted to the radio | wireless communication apparatus 10B used as a receiving destination (S210).

  Thereafter, the wireless communication device 10B transmits a beacon to the wireless communication device 10A (S212). Here, an example is shown in which a beacon not including a response to the DRP reservation request included in the beacon received in S210 is transmitted, but a beacon including a response to the DRP reservation request may be transmitted.

  Transmission data is continuously supplied to the wireless communication device 10A (S214). Further, the wireless communication device 10B detects a DRP reservation request from the beacon received in S210 (S216). When the amount of transmission data supplied to the wireless communication device 10A increases (S218), the multiplexing necessity determination unit 106 sets a multiple reservation request (S220), and the beacon information generation unit 115 requests multiplex communication. Generate a beacon containing Thereafter, the beacon generated by the beacon generation unit 115 is transmitted to the wireless communication device 10B (S222).

  Thereafter, in response to the DRP reservation request from the wireless communication device 10A received in S210, the wireless communication device 10B returns a beacon in which a reservation response is set (S224). Here, when receiving the DRP reservation response from the wireless communication device 10B, the wireless communication device 10A determines the reservation and transmits data in the reserved slot (S230). Note that the data transmitted in S230 is not multiplexed (single data). In the meantime, transmission data is continuously supplied to the wireless communication device 10A (S226, S232), and the wireless communication device 10B recognizes that multiplex communication is requested from the beacon received in S222. (S228).

  Subsequently, the wireless communication device 10A transmits a beacon including a request for multiplex communication (S234). Also, the wireless communication device 10B performs settings for multiplex communication in response to a request from the wireless communication device 10A, and transmits a beacon indicating that the settings have been made (S236).

  Then, the wireless communication device 10A performs setting for multiplex communication and transmits data in response to the multiplexed communication response from the wireless communication device 10B (S238). Here, the radio communication device 10A transmits two systems of radio signals in which the start timing of the frequency hopping pattern is adjusted by the multiplexing timing adjustment unit 107 (double data).

  When the transmission data held in the transmission data storage unit 102 of the wireless communication apparatus 10A is less than the predetermined amount or when there is no transmission data, the multiplexing necessity determination unit 106 cancels the multiplexing communication and performs DRP reservation. Is released (S240). As a result, a beacon not including a description requesting multiplex communication is transmitted from the wireless communication device 10A (S242). Here, for convenience, the cancellation of multiplexed communication and the cancellation of DRP reservation are performed simultaneously, but each may be canceled under different conditions. Subsequently, a beacon is also transmitted from the wireless communication device 10B (S244).

  Subsequently, since the multiplexed communication is not canceled by the wireless communication device 10B, the wireless communication device 10A transmits wireless signals in two systems (S246). Thereafter, the wireless communication device 10B cancels the multiplexed communication and the DRP reservation based on the beacon that has been released in S242 and has been released from the multiplexed communication and the DRP reservation (S248). A beacon without a message is exchanged (S250, S252).

  In this way, only normal data communication with one TFC code is performed, and the wireless communication devices 10A and 10B maintain the wireless network while exchanging beacons with the same TFC code during a predetermined beacon period.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the flow of the wireless communication method executed in the wireless communication apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment. First, if the wireless communication device 10 supports multiplexed communication after power-on (S301), the wireless communication device 10 sets bits capable of multiplexed communication (S302), sets a TFC code, and performs a predetermined beacon scan. The operation is performed (S303).

  Here, when the beacon is detected (S304), the wireless communication device 10 operates by forming a wireless network with the TFC code of the beacon (S305). That is, in the existing beacon period, the wireless communication device 10 sets a beacon slot that is not used by surrounding wireless communication devices as a slot of its own device, and forms a wireless network in synchronization with the surrounding wireless communication devices.

  On the other hand, if no beacon is detected, the wireless communication device 10 returns to S303 until the scan with all TFC codes is completed (S306), changes the TFC code, and performs a beacon scan again. The wireless communication device 10 selects one arbitrary TFC code when scanning is completed for all TFC codes, but no beacon is detected, because there is no other wireless communication device in the vicinity. S307).

  When one TFC code to be used is set in this way, the radio communication device 10 sets a superframe and a beacon period, and transmits a beacon in the first beacon slot (excluding the signaling slot) to construct a radio network. .

  If the wireless communication apparatus 10 receives an information transmission request from an application device connected via the interface 101 (S308), the wireless communication apparatus 10 stores the transmission data in the transmission data storage unit 102 (S309).

  Here, the reservation information setting unit 114 sets a DRP reservation request (S311) if communication by DRP reservation is necessary on the condition that transmission data is continuously supplied (S310). Furthermore, the multiplexing necessity determination unit 106, when a large amount of data is stored in the transmission data storage unit 102, or when transmission with only one TFC code becomes difficult (S312), Setting is performed (S313).

  Thereafter, when the beacon period arrives (S314), the wireless communication device 10 constructs an information element (IE) in the transmission beacon slot of the device (S315) (S316), and transmits a beacon (S317).

  On the other hand, if the wireless communication device 10 is other than the transmission beacon slot of the own device, the wireless communication device 10 receives a beacon, and when it actually receives a beacon (S318), stores the information described in the beacon (S319).

  At this time, if the self-addressed DRP reservation request is described in the beacon (S320), the reservation information setting unit 114 sets the corresponding DRP reservation response (S321) and sets reception of the corresponding slot (MAS). (S322). Further, if there is a description of multiplexed communication (S323), the multiplexing request processing unit 116 makes settings for receiving the corresponding multiplexed communication (S324).

  If the DRP reservation response addressed to the own device is described in the beacon (S325), the reservation information setting unit 114 sets transmission in the corresponding slot (MAS) (S326). If the DRP reservation described in the beacon is destined for another wireless communication device, the slot (MAS) reserved by the DRP reservation becomes in use, and thus Availability IE is updated (S327).

  When a slot for which transmission has been set by the own device arrives (S328), the first wireless transmission unit 103 modulates the transmission data held in the transmission data storage unit 102 (S329). Further, the preamble / header setting unit 104 adds a predetermined preamble to the modulated transmission data (S330), and a radio signal is transmitted from the first antenna 105 according to the frequency hopping pattern defined by the designated TFC code. (S331).

  If there is a setting for transmission of multiplexed communication (S332), the second wireless transmission unit 108 modulates the next transmission data held in the transmission data storage unit 102 (S333). Then, the multiplexing timing adjustment unit 107 controls the second radio transmission unit 108 so as not to compete with the frequency hopping pattern of the radio signal transmitted in S331 (S334), and based on the control, the second radio transmission unit 108 is controlled. Transmits the modulated transmission data (S335).

  In addition, when the wireless communication device 10 receives a slot set for reception by itself (S336), the wireless communication device 10 synchronizes with a predetermined preamble, and the first wireless reception unit 111 performs normal data reception (S337). The received data is stored in the received data storage unit 119 (S338). Here, if reception of multiplexed communication is set (S339), the second wireless reception unit 118 receives the multiplexed data portion based on the control by the reception timing adjustment unit 117 (S340). The received data is stored in the reception buffer (S341).

  After receiving a beacon or after data transmission / reception, the network management and data communication are performed by returning to S314 again and repeating a series of operations.

[4] Summary As described above, according to the present embodiment, the radio signal is multiplexed and transmitted using the frequency hopping pattern defined by the same TFC code, so that it is twice the normal transmission amount. Corresponding data can be transmitted. In addition, since the multiplexing adjustment interval is provided so that the frequency hopping pattern sequences of the multiplexed radio signals do not match, the receiving apparatus can reliably separate the radio signals.

  Further, according to the present embodiment, radio signals are multiplexed using a frequency hopping pattern defined by the same TFC code. For this reason, since only one beacon needs to be used, beacon processing can be simplified as compared with a method of multiplexing radio signals using frequency hopping patterns defined by different TFC codes.

  In addition, according to the present embodiment, communication is normally performed using only one TFC code, and when the transmission demand increases, the multiplexed communication is performed to maintain compatibility with the existing communication. It is possible to carry out multiplexed communication as it is. Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, communication can be multiplexed for each communication partner. For this reason, it is possible to selectively multiplex only the links that need to be multiplexed, and to reduce the burden on the radio communication device 10 with less communication demand.

  In addition, according to the present embodiment, a beacon is informed beforehand that the use of multiplexed communication is possible, so that when multiplexing is required, a request for multiplexed communication is immediately made. Can be done. In addition, as with DRP reservation, by managing the multiplexed communication for each slot, the multiplexed communication is applied only to the link that requires higher-speed transmission with only the necessary minimum reservation and multiplexing settings. can do. Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to realize multiplexing using a TFC code in which the same preamble is used by notifying the multiple adjustment interval.

  In addition, although preferred embodiment of this invention was described referring an accompanying drawing, it cannot be overemphasized that this invention is not limited to the example which concerns. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made within the scope of the claims, and these are naturally within the technical scope of the present invention. Understood.

  For example, each step in the processing of the wireless communication device 10 of the present specification does not necessarily have to be processed in time series in the order described as a flowchart or a sequence diagram. For example, each step in the processing of the wireless communication device 10 may include processing executed in parallel or individually (for example, parallel processing or object processing).

  Further, it is possible to create a computer program for causing hardware such as a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM built in the wireless communication device 10 to perform the same functions as the components of the wireless communication device 10 described above. A storage medium storing the computer program is also provided. Also, a series of processing can be realized by hardware by configuring each functional block shown in the functional block diagram of FIG. 9 with hardware.

It is explanatory drawing which showed the structural example of the radio | wireless communications system concerning this embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which showed the structural example of the super frame. It is the conceptual diagram which showed the beacon slot position of the own apparatus which each wireless communication apparatus sets. It is explanatory drawing which showed the structure of the frequency channel of a multiband OFDM system. It is explanatory drawing which showed the frequency hopping pattern of TFC code 1. It is explanatory drawing which showed the frequency hopping pattern of TFC code 2. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing a frequency hopping pattern of TFC code 3. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a frequency hopping pattern of a TFC code 4. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing a frequency hopping pattern of a TFC code 5. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing a frequency hopping pattern of a TFC code 6. FIG. It is explanatory drawing which showed the frequency hopping pattern of the TFC code. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing a frequency hopping pattern of a TFC code 8. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a frequency hopping pattern of a TFC code 9. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing a frequency hopping pattern of a TFC code 10. FIG. It is explanatory drawing which showed the problem when one radio | wireless communication apparatus transmits a radio signal in multiple using the same frequency hopping pattern. It is explanatory drawing which showed the problem when one radio | wireless communication apparatus transmits a radio signal in multiple using the same frequency hopping pattern. It is explanatory drawing which showed the problem when one radio | wireless communication apparatus transmits a radio signal in multiple using the same frequency hopping pattern. It is explanatory drawing shown about the shift | offset | difference of the preamble period of the radio signal multiplexed. It is explanatory drawing which showed a mode that a radio signal was multiplexed using the frequency hopping pattern defined by the TFC code. It is explanatory drawing which showed a mode that a radio signal was multiplexed using the frequency hopping pattern defined by the TFC code. It is explanatory drawing which showed a mode that a radio signal was multiplexed using the frequency hopping pattern defined by the TFC code | cord | chord 3. FIG. It is explanatory drawing which showed a mode that a radio signal was multiplexed using the frequency hopping pattern defined by the TFC code. It is explanatory drawing which showed the other mode that a radio signal was multiplexed using the frequency hopping pattern defined by the TFC code. It is explanatory drawing which showed the other mode that a radio signal was multiplexed using the frequency hopping pattern defined by the TFC code. It is explanatory drawing which showed a mode that a radio signal was multiplexed using the frequency hopping pattern defined by the TFC code | cord | chord 8. FIG. It is explanatory drawing which showed a mode that a radio signal was multiplexed using the frequency hopping pattern defined by the TFC code | cord | chord 9. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which radio signals are multiplexed using a frequency hopping pattern defined by a TFC code 10. FIG. It is explanatory drawing which showed the structure of the radio | wireless communication apparatus concerning this embodiment. It is explanatory drawing which showed the example of a general frame structure. It is explanatory drawing which showed the structural example of the MAC header. It is explanatory drawing which showed the structural example of the payload contained in a beacon frame. It is explanatory drawing which showed the structural example of the beacon parameter. It is explanatory drawing which showed the structural example of the beacon period utilization information element. It is explanatory drawing which showed the structural example of the DRP reservation information element. It is explanatory drawing which showed the structural example of the multiusable information element. It is a sequence diagram which shows the flow of the radio | wireless communication method performed in the radio | wireless communication apparatus concerning this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of the radio | wireless communication method performed in the radio | wireless communication apparatus concerning this embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

10, 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 10E, 10F, 10G Wireless communication device 102 Transmission data storage unit 103 First wireless transmission unit 104 Preamble / header setting unit 105 First antenna 106 Multiplexing necessity determination unit 107 Multiplexing Timing adjustment unit 108 second radio transmission unit 109 second antenna 111 first radio reception unit 116 multiplexing request processing unit 117 reception timing adjustment unit 118 second radio reception unit 119 reception data storage unit

Claims (11)

A first transmitter that transmits a radio signal using a plurality of frequency bands according to a predetermined frequency hopping pattern;
A second transmitter that transmits a radio signal using a plurality of frequency bands in accordance with the predetermined frequency hopping pattern;
The start timing of the predetermined frequency hopping pattern used by the second transmission unit is determined based on the use time period of each of the plurality of frequency bands by the first transmission unit and the plurality of the plurality of frequency bands by the second transmission unit. An adjustment unit that adjusts to a timing at which each usage time band of the frequency band does not match;
A wireless communication device comprising: The wireless communication device
A generation unit that generates data indicating an adjustment amount by the adjustment unit of a start timing of the predetermined frequency hopping pattern used by the second transmission unit;
The wireless communication device according to claim 1, wherein the data generated by the generation unit is transmitted from the first transmission unit or the second transmission unit.   The radio communication apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the first transmission unit transmits a preamble used for synchronization in a radio signal reception destination apparatus prior to transmission of the radio signal. The wireless communication device
A storage unit in which the predetermined frequency hopping pattern and the adjustment amount are recorded in association with each other;
The wireless communication device according to claim 2, wherein the adjustment unit adjusts a start timing of the predetermined frequency hopping pattern used by the second transmission unit based on the adjustment amount recorded in the storage unit. . In the storage unit, a plurality of adjustment amounts are recorded in association with the predetermined frequency hopping pattern,
The adjustment unit is configured to use the second transmission unit based on an adjustment amount corresponding to a frequency hopping pattern used in the surroundings among the plurality of adjustment amounts recorded in the storage unit. The wireless communication apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the start timing of the frequency hopping pattern is adjusted. The wireless communication device
A transmission buffer for temporarily holding transmission data transmitted as a radio signal by the first transmission unit;
A determination unit that transmits a radio signal also from the second transmission unit when the amount of transmission data held in the transmission buffer exceeds a predetermined value;
The wireless communication apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising:   The wireless communication apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the determination unit terminates transmission of a radio signal by the second transmission unit when a data amount of transmission data held in the transmission buffer falls below a predetermined value. . A first receiver that receives a radio signal transmitted using a plurality of frequency bands in accordance with a predetermined frequency hopping pattern;
A second receiving unit for receiving radio signals transmitted using a plurality of frequency bands in accordance with the predetermined frequency hopping pattern;
With
The start timing of the frequency hopping pattern of the radio signal received by the second receiving unit is the use time zone of each of the plurality of frequency bands of the radio signal received by the first receiving unit, and the second Adjusted to a timing at which the use times of each of the plurality of frequency bands of the radio signal received by the receiver do not match,
The first receiving unit or the second receiving unit receives data indicating an adjustment amount of a start timing of a frequency hopping pattern of a radio signal received by the second receiving unit,
Furthermore, a wireless communication apparatus comprising a reception control unit that controls reception processing by the second reception unit based on the adjustment amount. A wireless communication system including a first wireless communication device and a second wireless communication device capable of communicating with the first wireless communication device:
The first wireless communication device is:
A first transmitter that transmits a radio signal using a plurality of frequency bands according to a predetermined frequency hopping pattern;
A second transmitter that transmits a radio signal using a plurality of frequency bands in accordance with the predetermined frequency hopping pattern;
The start timing of the predetermined frequency hopping pattern used by the second transmission unit is determined based on the use time period of each of the plurality of frequency bands by the first transmission unit and the plurality of the plurality of frequency bands by the second transmission unit. An adjustment unit that adjusts to a timing at which each usage time band of the frequency band does not match;
With
The second wireless communication device is:
A first receiver that receives a radio signal transmitted from the first transmitter;
A second receiver for receiving a radio signal transmitted from the second transmitter;
A wireless communication system. A first transmitter that transmits a radio signal using a plurality of frequency bands according to a predetermined frequency hopping pattern;
A second transmitter that transmits a radio signal using a plurality of frequency bands according to the predetermined frequency hopping pattern;
A computer provided in a wireless communication device comprising:
The start timing of the predetermined frequency hopping pattern used by the second transmission unit is determined based on the use time period of each of the plurality of frequency bands by the first transmission unit and the plurality of the plurality of frequency bands by the second transmission unit. A program for functioning as an adjustment unit that adjusts to a timing at which each use time band of the frequency band does not match. A first receiver that receives a radio signal transmitted using a plurality of frequency bands in accordance with a predetermined frequency hopping pattern;
A second receiver for receiving radio signals transmitted using a plurality of frequency bands in accordance with the predetermined frequency hopping pattern;
With
The start timing of the frequency hopping pattern of the radio signal received by the second receiving unit is the use time zone of each of the plurality of frequency bands of the radio signal received by the first receiving unit, and the second Adjusted to a timing at which the use times of each of the plurality of frequency bands of the radio signal received by the receiver do not match,
The first receiving unit or the second receiving unit includes a computer provided in a wireless communication device that receives an adjustment amount of a start timing of a frequency hopping pattern of a radio signal received by the second receiving unit.
A program for functioning as a reception control unit that controls reception processing by the second reception unit based on the adjustment amount received by the first reception unit or the second reception unit.

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