Method for recommending a link for use between first and second multi-link devices (MLDS) in a wireless communications network, as well as corresponding methods and devices

Abstract

A method for recommending a link for use between a first Multi-Link Device, MLD, and a second MLD, in a wireless communications network, wherein said first and said second MLD are able to communicate with each other by simultaneously using multiple wireless links, wherein the method comprises the step of transmitting, by said first MLD, to said second MLD, a link recommendation for use for communication between said first and said second MLD, said recommended link being a link among said multiple wireless links, wherein said link recommendation is at least based on power consumptions associated with said multiple wireless links.

Description

[0001] Title

[0002] Method for recommending a link for use between first and second Multi-Link Devices (MLDs) in a wireless communications network, as well as corresponding methods and devices

[0003] Technical field

[0004] The present disclosure generally relates to the field of wireless communication and, more specifically, to multi-link devices, MLDs, that are capable of simultaneously supporting multiple wireless communications on distinct links (i.e. , over distinct wireless channels).

[0005] Background

[0006] In the context of a wireless communication network, there is always the ongoing pursuit for improved data transfer rates, extended coverage, and seamless connectivity. This has driven the innovation of novel technologies, of which the introduction of multi-link devices, MLDs, is one important one.

[0007] Traditional wireless communication devices have conventionally relied on singular communication links for the transmission and reception of data. However, this conventional approach exhibits limitations, particularly in scenarios that require high-speed data transfer, minimal latency, and robust connectivity.

[0008] The concept of multi-link devices addresses these limitations by harnessing the inherent diversity encompassing wireless channels - spanning spatial, frequency, and temporal dimensions. By facilitating simultaneous communication over multiple channels, MLDs offer the potential for enhanced data rates, reduced latency, improved robustness, elevated signal quality, and extended coverage, thereby elevating the overall performance of communication networks.

[0009] One of the advantages of multi-link devices lies in their ability to simultaneously transmit and receive information through multiple wireless links. This does not only optimize the utilization of available resources but also holds the promise of substantial performance gains in the wireless communication network. However, despite these merits, a notable challenge persists: The efficient management of power consumption associated with multi-link devices. As wireless communication systems often operate on constrained energy sources, like batteries, the energy efficiency of these multi-link devices may be of importance.

[0010] Until now, limited efforts have been directed towards devising effective strategies to reduce power consumption in multi-link devices.

[0011] Summary

[0012] It would be advantageous to achieve a method for a multi-link device wherein the importance of power consumption has been taken into account. It would further be advantageous to achieve corresponding methods and devices.

[0013] In a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method for recommending a link for use between a first Multi-Link Device, MLD, and a second MLD, in a wireless communications network, wherein said first and said second MLD are able to communicate with each other by simultaneously using multiple wireless links, wherein the method comprises the step of: transmitting, by said first MLD, to said second MLD, a link recommendation for use for communication between said first and said second MLD, said recommended link being a link among said multiple wireless links, wherein said link recommendation is at least based on power consumptions associated with said multiple wireless links.

[0014] The inventors have found that it might be beneficial for a first MLD to provide for a link recommendation to a second MLD, wherein the link recommendation is at least based on power consumptions associated with multiple wireless links that may be set up between the first and second MLD.

[0015] The first MLD thus provides for a recommendation of a link to use for communication between the first and second MLD based on power consumptions of the multiple wireless links.

[0016] The power consumption associated with each of the multiple wireless links may differ and may depend on several factors. For example, based on prevalent rules and regulations for operating using channels in different frequency bands, a MLD may support different maximum transmit powers for its different links. In addition, the different links may also support different operating parameters, for example operating channel bandwidths could vary from 20 MHz all the way up to 320 MHz.

[0017] There may also be differences in the radio digital / analogue front-end implementations for the different links based on supported operating parameters resulting in, for example, different static and dynamic power consumptions for different wireless links. For an MLD communicating the same data over different wireless links may result in a different power consumption behaviour for each wireless link, wherein communication using a first wireless link may consume more power compared to communication using a second wireless link.

[0018] In accordance with the present disclosure, the recommended link may be based on the power consumptions associated with the wireless links. Preferably, the link associated with the lowest power consumption is recommended to the second MLD.

[0019] Which wireless link results in the lowest power consumption I energy consumption may also depend on the amount of data that is to be transmitted as well as the required data rate.

[0020] As an example, suppose two links are available, one with 20 MHz bandwidth in the 2.4 GHz band and one with 160 MHz bandwidth in the 5 GHz band. If only a small amount of data is to be transmitted, using the link in the 2.4 GHz band may be preferable as the propagation conditions may be more favourable and therefore the transmission may be done at a lower transmit power or, alternatively, a higher data rate may be obtained with the same transmit power.

[0021] However, if a large amount of data is to be transmitted, then using 160 MHz bandwidth may allow the transmission to take place in much shorter time than would be the case if only a 20 MHz channel was to be used. Since transmitting at high data rate for a short period of time would typically result in lower total energy consumption than transmitting at low data rate for a longer period of time, using the link with 160 MHz bandwidth would result in lower energy consumption.

[0022] In another example, the link recommendation comprises an order of said multiple wireless links for use for communication between said first and second MLD. The link recommendation may, for example, comprise a list of wireless links to use for communication in a particular order. The most preferred wireless link may be first in the list and the least preferred wireless link may be at last in the list.

[0023] In a further example, the step of transmitting further comprises: transmitting, by said first MLD, to said second MLD, an importance parameter, said importance parameter reflecting any of: power saving is of higher importance for the first MLD than communication performance; communication performance is of higher importance for the first MLD than power saving; power saving and communication performance are of similar importance for the first MLD.

[0024] Typically, the Quality of Service, QoS, associated with the communication between the first and the second MLD is a parameter for determining which wireless link to use between the first and the second MLD. However, in some cases the communication performance, for example expressed in QoS, is of lesser importance compared to power savings.

[0025] The first MLD may thus indicate which importance parameter has priority, for example either power savings, communication performance, or whether these have equal / similar importance.

[0026] In a further example, the link recommendation is at least based on characteristics of data to be communicated between said first and second MLD.

[0027] The characteristics of the data to be communication may, for example, be related to the amount of data that is to be communicated. It may be beneficial to communicate a large amount of data over a wireless link that has the capability to support a higher data rate. A small amount of data may be preferably transmitted over a wireless link that only has the capability to support a lower data rate.

[0028] In a further example, the step of transmitting further comprises: transmitting, by said first MLD, to said second MLD, identification information regarding applicability of the said link recommendation, wherein said identification information is any of: information about a data type that can be communicated between said first and second MLD; information about a frame type that can be communicated between said first and second MLD.

[0029] In a further example, data to be communicated between said first and second MLD is associated with a Quality-of-Service, QoS, and wherein said step of transmitting comprises: transmitting, by said first MLD, to said second MLD, said link recommendation, wherein said link recommendation is at least based on power consumptions associated with wireless links of said multiple wireless links that are able to meet said QoS.

[0030] The first MLD may only recommend a link to the second MLD if that particular link meets certain QoS requirements. As such, only the wireless links that meet the QoS requirements may be considered.

[0031] In another example, the method further comprises the step of: determining, by said first MLD, said link recommendation at least based on power consumptions associated with said multiple wireless links.

[0032] This particular example describes the process of the first MLD performing a certain action to determine, or derive, the link recommendation based on at least the power consumptions associated with the multiple wireless links. The first MLD may, for example, perform an algorithm or the like to compute the link that is to be recommended. Multiple parameters may be used as an input to the algorithm, for example a priori known parameters as well as parameters related to a wireless link that has already been set up - channel bandwidth, power consumption, frequency of the link’s use, characteristics of data to be sent, transmit and / or receive parameters such as transmit power, etc.

[0033] In a further example, the method further comprises the step of: transmitting, by said first MLD, to said second MLD, a notifying information for notifying a reason for said link recommendation.

[0034] It is noted that the link recommendation may further at least be based on operating conditions of said first MLD.

[0035] In a specific example of the present disclosure, the wireless communications network is a Wireless Local Area Network, WLAN. In another example, data types of said communication between said first and second MLD are based on different access categories, ACs, and / or Traffic Identifiers, TIDs.

[0036] The different frame types of said communication between said first and second MLD may comprise at least one of a management frame, a control frame, and a data frame.

[0037] The link recommendation may, for example, be transmitted using a Link Recommendation frame.

[0038] In yet another example, at least one out of a plurality of Reason Codes are determined and transmitted to said second MLD for indicating one or more reasons for said link recommendation. One of the Reason Codes may be directed to power saving.

[0039] The first MLD may be an Access Point, AP, MLD or a non-AP MLD. The second MLD may be an Access Point, AP, MLD or a non-AP MLD.

[0040] The link recommendation may be mandatory such that it mandates the second MLD to use the recommended link for communication between the first and second MLD.

[0041] As an alternative, the link recommendation is optional such that the second MLD has the option to follow the link recommendation or to deviate from the link recommendation by choosing a different wireless link.

[0042] In a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method for acting upon receiving of a link recommendation for use between a first Multi-Link Device, MLD, and a second MLD, in a wireless communications network, wherein said first and said second MLD are able to communicate with each other by simultaneously using multiple wireless links, wherein the method comprises the step of: receiving, by said second MLD, from said first MLD, a link recommendation for use for communication between said first and said second MLD, said recommended link being a link among said multiple wireless links, wherein said link recommendation is at least based on power consumptions associated with said multiple wireless links, using, by said second MLD, said recommended link for said communication between said first and said second MLD. It is noted that the advantages as explained with respect to the first aspect of the present disclosure, being the method performed by the first MLD, are also applicable to the second aspect of the present disclosure, being the method performed by the second MLD.

[0043] In a further example, the link recommendation comprises an order of said multiple wireless links for use for communication between said first and said second MLD.

[0044] In another example, the step of using the links comprises: using, by said second MLD, one of said multiple wireless links in said order for said communication between said first and said second MLD.

[0045] In a third aspect, there is provided a first Multi-Link Device, MLD, arranged for recommending a link to a second MLD, in a wireless communications network, wherein said first and said second MLD are able to communicate with each other by simultaneously using multiple wireless links, wherein the first MLD comprises transmitting means arranged for transmitting a link recommendation for use for communication between said first and said second MLD, said recommended link being a link among said multiple wireless links, wherein said link recommendation is at least based on power consumptions associated with said multiple wireless links.

[0046] In an example, the link recommendation comprises an order of said multiple wireless links for use for communication between said first and second MLD.

[0047] In yet another example, the transmitting means are further arranged for transmitting an importance parameter, said importance parameter reflecting any of: power saving is of higher importance for the first MLD than communication performance; communication performance is of higher importance for the first MLD than power saving; power saving and communication performance are of similar importance for the first MLD.

[0048] In a further option, the link recommendation is at least based on characteristics of data to be communicated between said first and second MLD.

[0049] In yet another example, the transmitting means are further arranged for transmitting identification information, wherein said identification information is any of: information about a data type to be communicated between said first and second MLD; information about a frame type to be communicated between said first and second MLD.

[0050] In a further example, the data to be communicated between said first and second MLD is associated with a Quality-of-Service, QoS, and wherein said transmitting means are further arranged for transmitting said link recommendation, wherein said link recommendation is at least based on power consumptions associated with wireless links of said multiple wireless links that are able to meet said QoS.

[0051] In an example, the first MLD further comprises: a processor arranged for determining said link recommendation at least based on power consumptions associated with said multiple wireless links.

[0052] In another example, the wireless communications network is a Wireless Local Area Network, WLAN.

[0053] In yet another example, the first MLD is an Access Point, AP, MLD and wherein said second MLD is a non-AP MLD.

[0054] In an even further example, the link recommendation is mandatory, thereby mandating said second MLD to use said recommended link.

[0055] In a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a second Multi-Link Device, MLD, arranged for acting upon receiving of a link recommendation for use between a first MLD and said second MLD, in a wireless communications network, wherein said first and said second MLD are able to communicate with each other by simultaneously using multiple wireless links, wherein said second MLD comprises receiving means arranged for receiving, from said first MLD, a link recommendation for use for communication between said first and said second MLD, said recommended link being a link among said multiple wireless links, wherein said link recommendation is at least based on power consumptions associated with said multiple wireless links, processor arranged for using said recommended link for said communication between said first and said second MLD. In an example, the link recommendation comprises an order of said multiple wireless links for use for communication between said first and said second MLD.

[0056] In another example, the processor is further arranged for using one of said multiple wireless links in said order for said communication between said first and said second MLD.

[0057] In a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a computer program product comprising a computer readable medium having instruction stored thereon which, when executed by a Multi-Link Device, MLD, in a wireless communications network, cause said MLD to implement a method in accordance with any of the previous examples.

[0058] The present disclosure is described in conjunction with the appended figures. It is emphasized that, in accordance with the standard practice in the industry, various features are not drawn to scale. In fact, the dimensions of the various features may be arbitrarily increased or reduced for clarity of discussion.

[0059] In the appended figures, similar components and / or features may have the same reference label. Further, various components of the same type may be distinguished by following the reference label by a dash and a second label that distinguishes among the similar components. If only the first reference label is used in the specification, the description is applicable to any one of the similar components having the same first reference label irrespective of the second reference label.

[0060] The above and other aspects of the disclosure will be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the examples described hereinafter.

[0061] Brief description of the drawings

[0062] Fig. 1 discloses an example of an Access Point, AP, multi-link device, MLD, and a non-AP MLD having the capability to communicate with one another using multiple wireless links;

[0063] Fig. 2 discloses an example of a method in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0064] Fig. 3 discloses another example of a method in accordance with the present disclosure; Fig. 4 discloses an example of a first multi-link device, MLD, in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0065] Fig. 5 discloses an example of a second multi-link device, MLD, in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0066] Fig. 6 discloses an example of a signaling diagram between the first MLD and the second MLD.

[0067] Detailed Description

[0068] It is noted that in the description of the figures, same reference numerals refer to the same or similar components performing a same or essentially similar function.

[0069] A more detailed description is made with reference to particular examples, some of which are illustrated in the appended drawings, such that the manner in which the features of the present disclosure may be understood in more detail. It is noted that the drawings only illustrate typical examples and are therefore not to be considered to limit the scope of the subject matter of the claims. The drawings are incorporated for facilitating an understanding of the disclosure and are thus not necessarily drawn to scale. Advantages of the subject matter as claimed will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0070] The ensuing description provides preferred exemplary embodiment(s) only, and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the disclosure. Rather, the ensuing description of the preferred exemplary embodiment(s) will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description for implementing a preferred exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. It being understood that various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements, including combinations of features from different embodiments, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

[0071] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words "comprise," "comprising," and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense, as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of "including, but not limited to." As used herein, the terms "connected," "coupled," or any variant thereof means any connection or coupling, either direct or indirect, between two or more elements; the coupling or connection between the elements can be physical, logical, electromagnetic, or a combination thereof. Additionally, the words "herein," "above," "below," and words of similar import, when used in this application, refer to this application as a whole and not to any particular portions of this application. Where the context permits, words in the Detailed Description using the singular or plural number may also include the plural or singular number respectively. The word "or," in reference to a list of two or more items, covers all of the following interpretations of the word: any of the items in the list, all of the items in the list, and any combination of the items in the list.

[0072] These and other changes can be made to the technology in light of the following detailed description. While the description describes certain examples of the technology, and describes the best mode contemplated, no matter how detailed the description appears, the technology can be practiced in many ways. Details of the system may vary considerably in its specific implementation, while still being encompassed by the technology disclosed herein. As noted above, particular terminology used when describing certain features or aspects of the technology should not be taken to imply that the terminology is being redefined herein to be restricted to any specific characteristics, features, or aspects of the technology with which that terminology is associated. In general, the terms used in the following claims should not be construed to limit the technology to the specific examples disclosed in the specification, unless the Detailed Description section explicitly defines such terms. Accordingly, the actual scope of the technology encompasses not only the disclosed examples, but also all equivalent ways of practicing or implementing the technology under the claims.

[0073] Fig. 1 discloses an example 1 of an Access Point, AP, multi-link device, MLD, 2 and a non-AP MLD 4 having the capability to communicate with one another using multiple wireless links 3.

[0074] A wireless link refers to a communication pathway established between two or more devices without the use of physical cables or wired connections. Instead of transmitting data through physical wires, wireless links rely on radio waves, microwaves, or other wireless signals to transmit information between devices. In the context of a multi-link device, it means that this device is capable of establishing and maintaining multiple separate connections with other devices or networks without needing physical cables. These connections are established using wireless technologies, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, cellular networks, or any other wireless communication protocols.

[0075] Each wireless link may represent a dedicated channel through which data can be transmitted and received. This allows the multi-link device to communicate with multiple other devices or networks simultaneously, enabling efficient data exchange and communication without the constraints of physical connections.

[0076] The term wireless link may thus refer to the virtual connection established between devices over wireless communication protocols, enabling data transmission and communication without the need for physical connections.

[0077] Wi-Fi, for example, may operate in different frequency bands, each with its own set of frequencies and corresponding wireless channels. The different bands may be used by different versions of the standard.

[0078] In accordance with the present disclosure, a Wi-Fi network may be considered as a Wireless Local Area Network, WLAN, based on the IEEE 802.11 WLAN standard and it various amendments.

[0079] The 2.4 GHz frequency band is, for example, one of the earliest bands used for Wi-Fi and remains widely used. It's known for allowing for a longer range communication link but potentially more interference due to the abundance of other devices using this frequency band. 802.11b / g, for example, operates in the 2.4 GHz band and uses 20 MHz-wide channels. They offer lower data rates compared to newer standards but have better range.

[0080] The 802.11 n standard introduces so-called channel bonding, allowing two 20 MHz-wide channels to be combined into a single 40 MHz-wide channel. It provides improved data rates and better performance.

[0081] Typically, there are 14 channels available, but not all countries allow the use of all channels due to regulatory restrictions. The channels overlap, which can lead to interference. The commonly used non-overlapping channels are 1 , 6, and 11.

[0082] The 5 GHz band offers more available channels and less interference compared to the 2.4 GHz band. It's used in newer Wi-Fi standards that offer higher data rates. 802.11a is, for example, one of the earliest standards to use the 5 GHz band. Both 802.11n / ac support operation in the 5 GHz band, offering better performance and higher data rates. They use wider channels. 802.11 ax continues to use the 5 GHz band and focuses on improving efficiency and performance in crowded environments. 802.11 ax also supports operation in the 6 GHz band.

[0083] IEEE 802.11 be, referred to as Extremely High Throughput, EHT, is a further amendment of the IEEE 802.11 standard, which is designated as Wi-Fi 7. It focusses on WLAN indoor and outdoor operation with stationary and pedestrian speeds in the 2.4, 5, and 6 GHz frequency band.

[0084] Different wireless links may be considered as links operating in different frequency bands, for example 2.4 GHz versus 5 GHz or 6 GHz, or may be considered as links operating in different channels within the same frequency band. The underlying concept of an MLD is that the wireless links may operate independently from one another.

[0085] This disclosure provides multiple examples that can be used for achieving power savings in wireless communication devices such as MLDs. These examples are generally described and / or exemplified when applied to a wireless communication system based on the IEEE 802.11 WLAN standard - for example, using the term ‘MLD’. This is done only for ease of description, and as may be obvious for anyone of ordinary skill in the art, the embodiments are not limited only to this standard.

[0086] In the following, multiple use scenarios are described in further detail as examples of how embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented in real life scenarios.

[0087] In a first scenario, when a first MLD and a second MLD can communicate with each other using multiple links, it may be beneficial for the first MLD to transmit an indication to the second MLD to indicate a recommended link among the multiple links to preferably use for communicating with the first MLD.

[0088] Further, the first MLD may provide information regarding one or more reasons and / or conditions to be considered for communicating using the recommended link. In a related example, it may be beneficial to inform that at least one reason for sharing the link recommendation is power saving. The non-AP MLD may notify the AP MLD that among the three links, it recommends communicating using Linkl from a power saving perspective. With such information being available, the AP MLD may then preferably select Linkl while communicating with the non-AP MLD. As an alternative, or in addition, the AP MLD itself may share a similar recommendation with the non-AP MLD. If an AP MLD has multiple non-AP MLDs associated with it, it could potentially recommend different links to different non-AP MLDs, for example, based on their traffic characteristics and / or quality of service, QoS, requirements.

[0089] Also part of this example is the possibility that what link is recommended, or preferred, may depend at least in part on characteristics of the data to be communicated. A first link may, for example, be recommended if the amount of data to be transmitted is small, for example smaller than a threshold amount, whereas a second link may be recommended if the amount of data to be transmitted is large, for example larger than a threshold amount.

[0090] Alternatively, a first link may be recommended if there are strict delay requirements, for example in terms of latency and / or delay bounds, whereas a second link may be recommended if the delay requirements are more relaxed, i.e. in terms of latency and / or delay bounds.

[0091] In a second scenario, the first MLD may recommend an order of selection among the multiple wireless links. Thus, in addition to, or as an alternative to, indicating its most preferred link, the first MLD may also share its recommendation regarding the other links by indicating a preferred order.

[0092] The non-AP MLD may, for example, inform the AP MLD that its preferred order of selection among the multiple links from power saving perspective is first Linkl , then Link2, and finally Link3. With such information being available, the AP MLD could then choose to communicate with the non-AP MLD using Linkl and Link2, for example, when two out of the three links need to be used.

[0093] In a third scenario, it is proposed that the first MLD informs the second MLD that the link recommendation is limited to one or more specific data types - for example, one or more among the data types classified based on different Access Categories, ACs, and / or different Traffic Identifiers, TIDs. As an example, the link recommendation may be limited to data types corresponding to the background and best effort ACs, or for one or more TIDs having relatively lower priority levels. In another example, the first MLD may inform the second MLD that the link recommendation is limited to one or more specific frame types. As a further example, the link recommendation may be limited to only management frames, for example probe request frames, probe response frames.

[0094] These examples could help the first MLD to not severely affect its communication performance, for example in terms of throughput and / or latency, while attempting to reduce its power consumption by sharing a link recommendation. For example, when the relatively higher priority ACs / TIDs are kept out of scope of the link recommendation, it would mean that there are no proposed limitations or recommendations while communicating higher priority data.

[0095] In another example, the link recommendation shared by the first MLD is optional for the second MLD to follow. Alternatively, the link recommendation is mandatory for the second MLD to follow. As an example, a link recommendation shared by an AP MLD may be mandatory for a non-AP MLD to follow, while a link recommendation shared by a non-AP MLD may be optional for an AP MLD to follow.

[0096] In another scenario, the first MLD informs the second MLD regarding one out of a) Power saving is of higher importance for the first MLD than communication performance, b) Communication performance is of higher importance for the first MLD than power saving, c) Both power saving and communication performance are of similar importance for the first MLD

[0097] Such knowledge of relative importance could help the second MLD to take appropriate decisions while attempting to communicate with the first MLD. As an example, if the first MLD informs that higher importance is to be given to communication performance than for power saving, then the second MLD could follow the link recommendation only on a best effort basis without striving hard to do so.

[0098] Alternatively, if the first MLD informs that higher importance is to be given to power saving instead, then the second MLD could strive hard to follow the link recommendation every time it tries to communicate with the first MLD.

[0099] In another scenario, the link recommendation is dependent on one or more operating conditions of the first MLD. As an example, consider a non-AP MLD comprised in a battery-powered mobile phone with three links Linkl , Link2, and Link3. If Linkl is best from communication performance perspective but worst from power saving perspective, Link3 is best from power saving perspective but worst from communication performance perspective, and Link2 is neither best nor worst from both perspectives, the non-AP MLD may indicate its preferred link based on its battery charge status.

[0100] For example, when the battery charge status is >= 70%, the non-AP MLD may recommend Linkl to achieve the best communication performance. When the battery charge status is between 30% and 70%, the non-AP MLD may recommend Link2. Finally, when the battery charge status is <=30%, the non-AP MLD may recommend Link3 to try and maximize power saving.

[0101] In another scenario, the link recommendation for power saving is shared using a suitably adapted version of the Link Recommendation frame being standardized in the IEEE 802.11be amendment. In a related sub-example, one or more Reason Codes are defined to be able to indicate one or more reasons for sharing the link recommendation.

[0102] In a related sub-example, a Reason Code is defined to indicate that a reason for sharing the link recommendation is power saving.

[0103] As an example of an adaptation of the Link Recommendation frame, a new field / element may be defined to be able to indicate a recommended order of selection among multiple links from power saving perspective. Similarly, one or more other fields / elements may be defined to be able to indicate specific data types and / or frame types for which a link recommendation is being shared. Correspondingly, if one or more suitably defined Reason Codes are available, an MLD could have flexibility to indicate different reasons for a link recommendation - power saving only, power saving plus communication performance, for example to balance both, communication performance only, etc.

[0104] Fig. 2 discloses an example 101 of a method in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0105] The method is directed to recommending a link for use between a first Multi-Link Device, MLD, and a second MLD, in a wireless communications network, wherein said first and said second MLD are able to communicate with each other by simultaneously using multiple wireless links. The method comprises the steps of: determining 102, by said first MLD, which link to recommend; transmitting 103, by said first MLD, to said second MLD, a link recommendation for use for communication between said first and said second MLD, said recommended link being a link among said multiple wireless links, wherein said link recommendation is at least based on power consumptions associated with said multiple wireless links, informing 104, by said first MLD, to said second MLD, at least one reason for recommending that specific link.

[0106] Fig. 3 discloses another example 201 of a method in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0107] The method is directed to acting upon receiving of a link recommendation for use between a first Multi-Link Device, MLD, and a second MLD, in a wireless communications network, wherein said first and said second MLD are able to communicate with each other by simultaneously using multiple wireless links, wherein the method comprises the step of: receiving 202, by said second MLD, from said first MLD, a link recommendation for use for communication between said first and said second MLD, said recommended link being a link among said multiple wireless links, wherein said link recommendation is at least based on power consumptions associated with said multiple wireless links, using 203, by said second MLD, said recommended link for said communication between said first and said second MLD.

[0108] Fig. 4 discloses an example 301 of a first multi-link device, MLD, in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0109] The first Multi-Link Device, MLD, 301 is arranged for recommending a link to a second MLD, in a wireless communications network, wherein said first and said second MLD are able to communicate with each other by simultaneously using multiple wireless links, wherein the first MLD comprises transmitting means 303 arranged for transmitting a link recommendation for use for communication between said first and said second MLD, said recommended link being a link among said multiple wireless links, wherein said link recommendation is at least based on power consumptions associated with said multiple wireless links.

[0110] The first MLD 301 may further comprise receiving means 302, a processor 304 and a memory 305 interacting with the processor 304.

[0111] Fig. 5 discloses an example 401 of a second multi-link device, MLD, in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0112] The second Multi-Link Device, MLD, is arranged for acting upon receiving of a link recommendation for use between a first MLD and said second MLD, in a wireless communications network, wherein said first and said second MLD are able to communicate with each other by simultaneously using multiple wireless links, wherein said second MLD comprises receiving means 402 arranged for receiving, from said first MLD, a link recommendation for use for communication between said first and said second MLD, said recommended link being a link among said multiple wireless links, wherein said link recommendation is at least based on power consumptions associated with said multiple wireless links, processor 404, that may be in communication with a memory 405, arranged for using said recommended link for said communication between said first and said second MLD.

[0113] The second MLD 401 may further comprise transmitting means 403 for transmitting data or packets.

[0114] Fig. 6 discloses an example of a signaling diagram between the first MLD 2 and the second MLD 4.

[0115] The first MLD may further determine a link 501 that is to be recommended to the second MLD 4.

[0116] The link recommendation may then be transmitted 502 to the second MLD 4. The second MLD 4 may confirm 503 the received link recommendation. Ultimately, the recommended link may be used 504 for communication between the first MLD 2 and the second MLD 4.

[0117] In the description above, for the purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of implementations of the disclosed technology. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art that embodiments of the disclosed technology may be practiced without some of these specific details.

[0118] Other variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by those skilled in relevant arts, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure and the appended claims. In the claims, the word “comprising” does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article “a” or “an” does not exclude a plurality. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage. Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope thereof.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A method for recommending a link for use between a first Multi-Link Device, MLD, and a second MLD, in a wireless communications network, wherein said first and said second MLD are able to communicate with each other by simultaneously using multiple wireless links, wherein the method comprises the step of: transmitting, by said first MLD, to said second MLD, a link recommendation for use for communication between said first and said second MLD, said recommended link being a link among said multiple wireless links, wherein said link recommendation is at least based on power consumptions associated with said multiple wireless links.

2. A method in accordance with claim 1 , wherein said link recommendation comprises an order of said multiple wireless links for use for communication between said first and second MLD.

3. A method in accordance with any of the previous claims, wherein said step of transmitting further comprises: transmitting, by said first MLD, to said second MLD, an importance parameter, said importance parameter reflecting any of: power saving is of higher importance for the first MLD than communication performance; communication performance is of higher importance for the first MLD than power saving; power saving and communication performance are of similar importance for the first MLD.

4. A method in accordance with any of the previous claims, wherein said link recommendation is at least based on characteristics of data to be communicated between said first and second MLD.

5. A method in accordance with any of the previous claims, wherein said step of transmitting further comprises:transmitting, by said first MLD, to said second MLD, identification information regarding applicability of the said link recommendation, wherein said identification information is any of: information about a data type that can be communicated between said first and second MLD; information about a frame type that can be communicated between said first and second MLD.

6. A method in accordance with any of the previous claims, wherein data to be communicated between said first and second MLD is associated with a Quality- of-Service, QoS, and wherein said step of transmitting comprises: transmitting, by said first MLD, to said second MLD, said link recommendation, wherein said link recommendation is at least based on power consumptions associated with wireless links of said multiple wireless links that are able to meet said QoS.

7. A method in accordance with any of the previous claims, wherein said method further comprises the step of: determining, by said first MLD, said link recommendation at least based on power consumptions associated with said multiple wireless links.

8. A method in accordance with any of the previous claims, wherein said method further comprises the step of: transmitting, by said first MLD, to said second MLD, a notifying information for notifying a reason for said link recommendation.

9. A method in accordance with claim 8, wherein said reason for said link recommendation is power savings.

10. A method in accordance with any of the previous claims, wherein said link recommendation is further at least based on operating conditions of said first MLD.

11. A method in accordance with any of the previous claims, wherein a wireless communications network is a Wireless Local Area Network, WLAN.

12. A method in accordance with claim 11 , wherein data types of said communication between said first and second MLD are based on different access categories, ACs, and / or Traffic Identifiers, TIDs.

13. A method in accordance with any of the claims 11 - 12, wherein different frame types of said communication between said first and second MLD comprise at least one of a management frame, a control frame and a data frame.

14. A method in accordance with any of the claims 11 - 13, wherein said link recommendation is transmitted using a Link Recommendation frame.

15. A method in accordance with any of the claims 11 - 14, wherein at least one out of a plurality of Reason Codes are determined and transmitted to said second MLD for indicating one or more reasons for said link recommendation.

16. A method in accordance with any of the claim 15, wherein one of said Reason Codes is power saving.

17. A method in accordance with any of the previous claims, wherein one of: said first MLD is an Access Point, AP, MLD and said second MLD is a non-AP MLD; said first MLD is a non-AP MLD and said second MLD is an AP MLD.

18. A method in accordance with any of the previous claims, wherein said second MLD is an AP MLD or a non-AP MLD.

19. A method in accordance with any of the previous claims, wherein said link recommendation is mandatory, thereby mandating said second MLD to follow said link recommendation.

20. A method in accordance with any of the claims 1 - 18, wherein said link recommendation is optional, such that said second MLD may follow said link recommendation.

21. A method for acting upon receiving of a link recommendation for use between a first Multi-Link Device, MLD, and a second MLD, in a wireless communications network, wherein said first and said second MLD are able to communicate with each other by simultaneously using multiple wireless links, wherein the method comprises the step of: receiving, by said second MLD, from said first MLD, a link recommendation for use for communication between said first and said second MLD, said recommended link being a link among said multiple wireless links, wherein said link recommendation is at least based on power consumptions associated with said multiple wireless links, using, by said second MLD, said recommended link for said communication between said first and said second MLD.

22. A method in accordance with claim 21 , wherein said link recommendation comprises an order of said multiple wireless links for use for communication between said first and said second MLD.

23. A method in accordance with claim 22, wherein said step of using comprises: using, by said second MLD, one of said multiple wireless links in said order for said communication between said first and said second MLD.

24. A first Multi-Link Device, MLD, arranged for recommending a link to a second MLD, in a wireless communications network, wherein said first and said second MLD are able to communicate with each other by simultaneously using multiple wireless links, wherein the first MLD comprises transmitting means arranged for transmitting a link recommendation for use for communication between said first and said second MLD, said recommended link being a link among said multiple wireless links, wherein saidlink recommendation is at least based on power consumptions associated with said multiple wireless links.

25. A first MLD in accordance with claim 24, wherein said link recommendation comprises an order of said multiple wireless links for use for communication between said first and second MLD.

26. A first MLD in accordance with any of the claims 24 - 25, wherein said transmitting means are further arranged for transmitting an importance parameter, said importance parameter reflecting any of: power saving is of higher importance for the first MLD than communication performance; communication performance is of higher importance for the first MLD than power saving; power saving and communication performance are of similar importance for the first MLD.

27. A first MLD in accordance with any of the claims 24 - 26, wherein said link recommendation is at least based on characteristics of data to be communicated between said first and second MLD.

28. A first MLD in accordance with any of the claims 24 - 27, wherein said transmitting means are further arranged for transmitting identification information, wherein said identification information is any of: information about a data type to be communicated between said first and second MLD; information about a frame type to be communicated between said first and second MLD.

29. A first MLD in accordance with any of the claims 24 - 28, wherein data to be communicated between said first and second MLD is associated with a Quality- of-Service, QoS, and wherein said transmitting means are further arranged for transmitting said link recommendation, wherein said link recommendation is at leastbased on power consumptions associated with wireless links of said multiple wireless links that are able to meet said QoS.

30. A first MLD in accordance with any of the claims 24 - 29, wherein said first MLD further comprises: a processor arranged for determining said link recommendation at least based on power consumptions associated with said multiple wireless links.

31. A first MLD in accordance with any of the claims 24 - 30, wherein said wireless communications network is a Wireless Local Area Network, WLAN.

32. A first MLD in accordance with claim 31 , wherein any of: said first MLD is an Access Point, AP, MLD and wherein said second MLD is a non-AP MLD said first MLD is a non-AP MLD and said second MLD is an AP MLD.

33. A first MLD in accordance with any of the claims 31 -32, wherein said link recommendation is mandatory, thereby mandating said second MLD to follow said link recommendation.

34. A second Multi-Link Device, MLD, arranged for acting upon receiving of a link recommendation for use between a first MLD and said second MLD, in a wireless communications network, wherein said first and said second MLD are able to communicate with each other by simultaneously using multiple wireless links, wherein said second MLD comprises receiving means arranged for receiving, from said first MLD, a link recommendation for use for communication between said first and said second MLD, said recommended link being a link among said multiple wireless links, wherein said link recommendation is at least based on power consumptions associated with said multiple wireless links, processor arranged for using said recommended link for said communication between said first and said second MLD.

35. A second MLD in accordance with claim 34, wherein said link recommendation comprises an order of said multiple wireless links for use for communication between said first and said second MLD.

36. A second MLD in accordance with claim 35, wherein said processor is further arranged for using one of said multiple wireless links in said order for said communication between said first and said second MLD.

37. A computer program product comprising a computer readable medium having instruction stored thereon which, when executed by a Multi-Link Device, MLD, in a wireless communications network, cause said MLD to implement a method in accordance with any of the claims 1 - 23.

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