Method and apparatus for providing assistance support for ultra high reliability capability framework

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a method for providing assistance support by an access point (AP) for a ultra high reliability (UHR) capability framework. The method comprises transmitting, to a station (STA), a beacon frame comprising AP assistance capability support information and receiving, from the STA, an association request. The association request comprises STA assistance information including at least at least one of a STA assistance type identity (ID), a Length of the STA assistance information, and at least one STA specific assistance capability. The method further comprises establishing a connection with the STA for providing the assistance support to the STA for one or more events based on the association request.

Description

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING ASSISTANCE SUPPORT FOR ULTRA HIGH RELIABILITY CAPABILITY FRAMEWORK

[0001] The present invention generally relates to wireless communication. Particularly, but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to the system and method providing assistance support by an access point (AP) in Ultra High Reliability (UHR).

[0002] The IEEE 802.11 standards support a wide range of applications and device types in today's ecosystem. A typical home, as shown inFig. 1, IEEE 802.11 enabled home appliances like television (TV) 102, refrigerator, light bulbs, smart appliances. Each member of the home can own multiple mobile handsets 106, wearables, extended reality (XR) devices 104, tablets and laptops 108. Home may also be equipped with smart sensors, such as internet of things (IoT) 110 that connect over the 802.11 network. Similarly, IEEE 802.11 networks are deployed in the denser environments, like airports, offices, malls etc, where there are multiple users to cater to and in industries requiring connectivity over networks for a wide set of requirements.

[0003] As is evident from the current ecosystem in both home and outdoor spaces, a wide variety of devices exist, each with different performance requirements. For example, sensor based IoT devices 110 that requires low latency, high reliability network, user specific devices like laptops 108, TV 102 requires high throughput for certain applications like streaming, data upload / download, XR devices 104 requires high throughput, reliability, latency and mobility, and mobile handsets 106 requires high coverage and mobility and so on. Thus, to handle multiple types of traffic and priorities associated with the same, the current 802.11 standard already defines certain traffic and access categories.

[0004] Further, a typical home, office, mall or any outdoor space is usually deployed with multiple access points (APs) to improve coverage, service etc with multiple types of devices connected to those APs. However, due to many reasons like human obstruction, temporary blockages etc., the signal threshold of the currently associated AP falls below the thresholds and the STA roams and finds another AP. Meanwhile, once the blockages are removed, the previous AP signal threshold can become better, and the STA reassociates with the previous AP signal threshold.

[0005] The above-mentioned situation may occur multiple number of times in crowded areas or areas where obstacle comes between an AP and STA. This may cause multiple ping pongs between APs for the STA as the STA continually switches between APs. Multiple ping pongs may result in unreliable experience as the STA needs to scan and find another AP, reassociate with it, and resume operations.

[0006] Hence there is a need to define the capabilities associated to the STA assistance framework used by AP and STA.

[0007] The information disclosed in this background of the disclosure section is only for enhancement of understanding of the general background of the invention and should not be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that this information forms the prior art already known to a person skilled in the art.

[0008] Some of the objects of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment disclosed herein satisfies, are listed below.

[0009] An object of the present disclosure to define a new framework for including STA assistance capabilities information support in both AP and STA.

[0010] An object of the present disclosure to provide a method to exchange the STA assistance capabilities between AP and STA in different messages like Beacon, Association / Re-association, Probe request / response messages.

[0011] An object of the present disclosure to define different types of STA assistance indicators and to define associated mapping values to be included in the STA assistance capability exchange framework.

[0012] An object of the present disclosure to define capabilities information element for STA assistance framework within UHR MAC capabilities.

[0013] An object of the present disclosure to define a variant of frame format to include STA Assistance capability framework that includes STA Assistance Type ID, Length, STA Assistance Information capabilities specific to that Type ID.

[0014] An object of the present disclosure is to define another variant of frame format to include number of STA Assistance ID, STA Assistance ID value and associated STA Assistance Information capabilities.

[0015] An object of the present disclosure is to define variant of frame formats for STA Assistance capabilities that is sent independent of the UHR MAC capabilities.

[0016] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts, in a simplified format, which is further described in detailed description of the invention. This summary is neither intended to identify key or essential inventive concepts of the invention nor is it intended for determining the scope of the invention.

[0017] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for providing assistance support by an access point (AP) for an ultra high reliability (UHR) capability framework is provided. The method may comprise transmitting, to a station (STA), a beacon frame comprising AP assistance capability support information. The method may comprise receiving, from the STA, an association request. The association request may comprise STA assistance information including at least one of a STA assistance type identity (ID), a Length of the STA assistance information, or at least one STA specific assistance capability. The method may comprise establishing a connection with the STA for providing the assistance support to the STA for one or more events based on the association request.

[0018] The method may comprise monitoring the connection to detect the one or more events triggered at the STA. The assistance support may be provided to the STA based on the detection of the one or more events and based on the STA assistance information.

[0019] The method may comprise receiving, from the STA, at least one of a probe request or a re-association request associated with the one or more events. The assistance support for the one or more events may be provided to the STA based on receiving at least one of the probe request or a re-association request and based on the STA assistance information.

[0020] The one or more events may comprise at least one of an overheating event, a ping-pong event, a power saving requirement, or a miscellaneous failure event.

[0021] The method may comprise storing the STA assistance information in a memory of the AP.

[0022] The AP assistance capability support information may comprise information relating to one or more AP inbuilt capabilities to address the one or more events triggered at the STA.

[0023] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, method for receiving assistance support by a station (STA) for an ultra high reliability (UHR) capability framework. The method may comprise receiving, from an access point (AP), a beacon frame comprising AP assistance capability support information. The method may comprise determining a requirement for sharing STA assistance information with the AP based on beacon frame. The method may comprise transmitting, to the AP, an association request for receiving the assistance support for one or more events based on the determined requirement. The association request may comprise the STA assistance information including at least one of a STA assistance type identity (ID), a length of the STA assistance information, or at least one STA specific assistance capability.

[0024] The one or more events may comprise at least one of: an overheating event, ping-pong event, power saving requirement or a miscellaneous failure event.

[0025] The method may comprise receiving, from the AP, the assistance support for the one or more events.

[0026] The method may comprise detecting one or more events at the STA. The method may comprise transmitting, to the AP, at least one of a probe request or a re-association request indicating the detection of the one or more events. The method may comprise receiving, from the AP, the assistance support based on at least one of the at least one of the probe request or the re-association request.

[0027] The method may comprise storing the AP capability support information in a memory of the STA.

[0028] The method may comprise processing the beacon frame for analysing the AP assistance capability to address the one or more events triggered at the STA. The method may comprise detecting one or more events at the STA. The method may comprise switching from the AP to another AP based on the AP assistance capability to address the detected one or more events at the STA. The method may comprise receiving, from the other AP, the assistance support for the detected one or more events.

[0029] The method may comprise sharing, with the other AP, the STA assistance information using a re-association request message.

[0030] The method may comprise generating the STA assistance information comprising a number of STA Assistance ID, an STA Assistance ID value and associated STA assistance information. The STA assistance information may be defined separately as an element format for the STA assistance information and is transmitted independent of UHR media access control (MAC) capabilities.

[0031] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, an access point (AP) for providing assistance support for an ultra high reliability (UHR) capability framework. The AP may comprise memory storing instructions; and at least one processor operably coupled to the memory. The instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the AP to perform operations. The operations may comprise transmitting, to a station (STA), a beacon frame comprising AP assistance capability support information. The operations may comprise receiving, from the STA, an association request. The association request may comprise STA assistance information including at least one of a STA assistance type identity (ID), a Length of the STA assistance information, or at least one STA specific assistance capability. The operations may comprise establishing a connection with the STA for providing the assistance support to the STA for one or more events based on the association request.

[0032] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative embodiments, and features described above, further embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.

[0033] The embodiments of the disclosure itself, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description of an illustrative embodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. One or more embodiments are now described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0034] Fig. 1illustrates a general environment depicting plurality of devices connected to Wi-Fi, per prior art.

[0035] Fig. 2illustrates connection between one or more APs and the plurality of device, as per the prior art.

[0036] Fig. 3illustrates a scenario of ping pongs requiring STA to scan and find another AP, as per the prior art.

[0037] Fig. 4illustrates a sequence diagram to overcome the issue of ping pongs as per the solution provided in prior art.

[0038] Fig. 5Aillustrates a sequence diagram to overcome the issue of ping pongs, as per the solution provided in prior art.

[0039] Fig. 5Billustrates a sequence diagram to overcome the issue of ping pongs and power saving, as per the solution provided in prior art.

[0040] Fig. 6illustrates the scope of the solution space associated with the conventional technologies.

[0041] Fig. 7Aillustrates a sequence diagram indicating capability for STA assistance by another AP - message sequence, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0042] Fig. 7Billustrates a sequence diagram indicating capability for STA assistance by first AP - message sequence, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0043] Fig. 8illustrates the flowchart indicating message frame format, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0044] Fig. 9illustrates the options for indicating STA Assistance capabilities, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0045] Fig. 10illustrates the frame format for STA assistance capabilities within UHR capabilities, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0046] Fig. 11illustrates the frame format for STA assistance capabilities, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0047] Fig. 12illustrates the options for indicating STA assistance capabilities, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0048] Fig. 13illustrates a system for providing assistance support by an access point (AP) in Ultra High Reliability (UHR) capability framework, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0049] Fig. 14illustrates a system to provide assistance support at a user equipment (STA) in Ultra High Reliability (UHR) capability framework, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0050] Fig. 15illustrates a flowchart of a method for providing assistance support by an access point (AP) in Ultra High Reliability (UHR) capability framework, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0051] Fig. 16illustrates a flowchart of a method for providing assistance support at a user equipment (STA) in Ultra High Reliability (UHR) capability framework, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0052] The figures depict embodiments of the disclosure for purposes of illustration only. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein.

[0053] It should be appreciated by those skilled in art that any block diagrams herein represent conceptual views of illustrative systems embodying the principles of the present subject matter. Similarly, it will be appreciated that any flow charts, flow diagrams, state transition diagrams, pseudo code, and the like represent various processes which may be substantially represented in computer readable medium and executed by a computer or processor, whether or not such computer or processor is explicitly shown.

[0054] In the present document, the word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any embodiment or implementation of the present subject matter described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.

[0055] While the disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiment thereof has been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail below. It should be understood, however, that it is not intended to limit the disclosure to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and the scope of the disclosure.

[0056] The terms "comprises", "comprising", or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a setup, device or method that comprises a list of components or steps does not include only those components or steps but may include other components or steps not expressly listed or inherent to such setup or device or method. In other words, one or more elements in a device or system or apparatus proceeded by "comprises... a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the device or system or apparatus.

[0057] In the following detailed description of the embodiments of the disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and which are shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the disclosure may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The following description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.

[0058] OVERVIEW

[0059] The present disclosure discloses the capabilities associated with the station (STA) assistance framework used by access point (AP) and STA. In other words, there is a need for a mechanism that discloses capability framework for both AP and STA as shown inFig. 6. Example scenarios are shown inFig. 7AandFig. 7B, implementing the present disclosure to indicate the performance requirements of a STA. In this example, a STA is present in the vicinity of multiple APs - AP 702 and AP 706.

[0060] InFig. 7A, AP 702 and AP 706 and STA 704 support the STA assistance. InFig. 7B, AP 702 and STA 704 support STA assistance while AP 706 does not support the STA assistance. The following example is for illustrating the scenario during a ping pong event i.e., how the capability information may be exchanged that is related to STA assistance information may help AP and STA negotiate and handle the ping-pong issues seamlessly.

[0061] Referring toFig. 7AandFig. 7B,

[0062] - In STEP 1 - Beacon from AP 702 is received by STA 704 and the beacon may include the capability information element that includes the STA assistance information for Capability support.

[0063] - In STEP 2 - STA 704 may send an Association Request message which also includes its own STA assistance information for Capability Support.

[0064] - In STEP 3 - Association Response message with STA assistance information capability support may be sent optionally again by AP 702.

[0065] - In STEP 4 - An event occurs like a temporary blockage that can cause disruption in service from AP 702 and STA tries to find another suitable AP.

[0066] - In STEP 5 - STA 704 sends probe Request message that includes the STA assistance information capability support to AP 706.

[0067] - In STEP 6 - Referring toFig. 7A- in this example, AP 706 also supports the STA assistance information capability and includes it in probe response message.

[0068] - In STEP 6 - Referring toFig. 7B- in this example AP 706 does not support the STA assistance information capability and sends only a legacy probe response message.

[0069] - In STEP 7 - A ping-pong event may be detected at STA (when multiple such handoffs happen between AP 702 and AP 706).

[0070] - In STEP 8 - Referring toFig. 7B- since AP 706 has the capability, it shall appropriately recommend as per prior arts already available and shall send the recommendation to STA to avoid ping-pong.

[0071] - While in STEP 8 - Referring toFig. 7B- since AP 706 does not support the recommendation, STA may decide to go back to AP 702 and receive a better recommendation suitable for its needs.

[0072] -In STEP 9 - Referring toFig. 7B- AP 702 sends the recommendation as per prior arts.

[0073] The above-mentioned example clearly shows the importance of having a capability exchange between the AP and STA before a STA assistance information can be utilized. Further, the above-mentioned example also illustrates the various messages in which the capability exchange can happen like Beacon, Association Request / Response, Probe Request / Response etc.

[0074] Further, there are different types of STA Assistance Information capability supported by STA and AP. The table 1 below gives an example set of such STA assistance information and it is not restricted to these types only.

[0075] Assistance TypeDescriptionPing-pong AssistanceThis STA assistance can be used to determine STA performance requirements and then provide a recommendation to STA by AP to avoid ping pongsOver heating AssistanceThis STA assistance can be used by STA to inform AP if it is facing heating issues and if it wishes to reduce capabilitiesPower Saving AssistanceThis STA assistance can be used by STA to indicate to AP a certain modification to capabilities during a power save eventM-AP AssistanceThis can be used by STA to indicate to AP that the following information from STA can be useful for M-AP co-ordination and so onReservedMore assistance types can be included in future

[0076] Particularly, the present disclosure provides the above types as exemplary and there can be more types of STA assistance information that can be exchanged.In an embodiment, the present disclosure describes that the STA Assistance Information Capability can be defined in two ways: STA Assistance Capability Information in UHR capabilities or STA Assistance Capability Information Element defined separately as shown inFig. 8.

[0077] STA Assistance Capability Information in UHR capabilities

[0078] As shown inFig. 9, the Capabilities may be usually sent in Beacon, (Re) Association Request / Response, Probe Request / Response messages. As per this approach, the STA assistance information capabilities may be part of UHR capabilities information element. UHR capabilities element frame format is shown for illustration inFig. 9indicating fields for MAC and PHY capabilities. The present disclosure defines the STA assistance information capabilities within the UHR MAC capabilities.

[0079] Further, the frame format for STA Assistance Capabilities is illustrated inFig. 10and table 2 (as shown below). For instance, one variant of frame format is defined here i.e., the UHR MAC capabilities element has an associated STA assistance Information capability which may be identified by a STA Assistance Type ID #.

[0080] Sub-fieldDefinitionEncodingSTA Assistance Type IDThis will define the Assistance Type ID to identify the type of Assistance required by STAIt can be n bit encoding and can be expanded based on need: (3 bit example shown here)000: Ping-pong assistance001: Overheating assistance010: Power Saving assistance011: M-AP assistance100-111: Reserved for future expansionLengthThis indicates the length of the STA Assistance feature capability informationSTA Assistance CapabilitiesThis defines the unique capabilities for each assistance typeEach STA Assistance capability has its own associated frame format for defining the feature and its parameters.

[0081] As shown in Table 2, the encoding of the STA Assistance Type is shown here for different types of assistance like ping pong, overheating, power saving etc. The next field is the length which indicates the length of the following field which shall include the details of the STA assistance capabilities. The STA Assistance capabilities element can be defined as a customized set of frame elements that are unique to a particular assistance feature. In this example, the ping pong STA assistance where the AP can provide assistance or the STA can receive for hysteresis, or delay or any other specific STA information. The scope of this information is to provide a framework where specific STA assistance capability information can be included in capabilities and not specific to the actual capabilities.

[0082] Further, the present disclosure describes another variant of frame format as shown inFig. 11, Table 3 and Table 4.

[0083] Sub-fieldDefinitionEncodingSTA Assistance IDThe STA assistance ID will identify that the following section is for STA assistance capabilitiesA unique ID can be included to determine this which is a numeric.Number of STA Assistance InfoThis shall indicate the number of STA assistance features supported in this capabilityA range can be defined to include a number of supported features so that its forward compatibleSTA Assistance ID#1 to STA Assistance ID #nThis shall define the STA Assistance features that is supported in this capabilityPresence of the feature ID shall indicate it supported and absence shall indicate its not supported.Details of the feature id mapping are as per Table 2

[0084] The UHR MAC capabilities element has an associated STA assistance Information capability. This is identified by the STA Assistance ID which is a pointer to the following STA assistance information. A unique order or ID can be maintained. The next field is the number of STA Assistance information that is supported which will simply indicate the number of STA assistance features supported. The following fields shall indicate as many number of features as supported by the AP or STA for assistance. The mapping of the ID of STA assistance feature to the value is defined in Table 4.

[0085] ValueDefinition1Ping pong assistance2Overheating assistance3Power saving assistance4M-AP assistance~Reserved

[0086] STA Assistance Capability Information Element defined separately

[0087] In an alternate embodiment, the present disclosure discloses STA assistance capabilities. As shown inFig. 12, the STA Assistance capabilities itself can be defined as a new element for inclusion in Capabilities of Beacon, (Re) Association Request / Response or Probe Request / Response messages. The STA Assistance capabilities may be sent along with UHR capabilities and may be treated separately to UHR capabilities. The STA Assistance information needs to be defined as a new order in the list of orders for each of the frame formats wherever capabilities information is being sent as per prior art. The details of the STA Assistance information shall follow the frame format as defined inFig. 10orFig.11which are two variants of the solution.

[0088] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0089] If the ping pongs process occurs repeatedly, it disrupts data service, impacts throughput performance, affects power saving, and causes un-optimal usage of airtime resources as shown inFig. 2 and Fig. 3.

[0090] Moving towardsFig. 4, which illustrates one of the existing technology solutions discussed by the 802.11bn task group to address ping-pong issues. The existing technology describes from AP perspective i.e. the solution of the existing technology suggests that a BSS Transition management (BTM) stats message may be sent based on observed data at the AP along with a recommendation and optional candidate list. For instance, 802.11bn APs can observe the Ping Pong roams and warn the STA. In this case, mere historical record or more advanced techniques (AI / ML) may be observed. Further, 802.11bn AP may then send a BTM Stats frame. Table shows an example of the BTM Stats frame.

[0091] SuccessCountFall countMeasurement interval (e.g. delay next transition, or look for signal change of10 dBRecommendationOptional candidate list

[0092] Another existing solution as part of 802.11bn discussions also focuses on solving the ping pong issue. In this solution, the AP and STA may exchange a set of requirements and the AP is able to provide an assistance information based on that requirement, as shown inFigs. 5Aand5B. Particularly,Fig. 5Ashows one variant of solution where the requirement like low latency, power saving, throughput performance etc can be indicated by the STA to AP and the AP may further use it to generate its recommendation and send the same to the STA. Further,Fig. 5Bshows another variant of the solution, where the STA sends an explicit request to AP with its performance requirements or indicators and the AP may respond to it with the assistance information.

[0093] Thus, ping-pong between multiple APs is known to be a problem for the STAs where the STAs end up changing association to access points based on temporary interruptions in signal conditions experienced at STA. The conventional technologies provide a solution that addresses the ping-pong issue with recommendation from AP or a STA assisted recommendation from AP as described above. In either of the solutions of the prior technology, the recommendation exchanged between the AP and STA can only be executed when both AP and STA shall support the recommendation. In order to support the recommendation or support the assistance information from the STA, both AP and STA need to do a handshake mechanism prior to applying the solution to solve the ping pong issue. Also, the recommendation can include multiple scenarios, which may not be supported by the STA. For example, not all STA may be interested in low latency recommendations or high throughput recommendations.

[0094] Fig. 6illustrates the scope of the solution space associated with the conventional technologies.

[0095] In an embodiment of the present disclosure,Fig. 6illustrates the solution for conventional technologies associated with a STA assistance information capability framework within a wireless communication network. The STA assistance information capability framework is defined by a bidirectional exchange of capabilities between an Access Point (AP) and a Station (STA). An AP communicates capabilities to the STA using the capability framework AP to STA. As per legacy specifications, the capability information may comprise in Beacon, (Re)association Response, and Probe Response frames.

[0096] Further, a STA communicates associated capabilities to an AP through the Capability framework STA to AP. As per legacy specifications, the capability information may comprise in a (Re)association Request and a Probe Request frame. It is important to note that the STA assistance information capability may be exchanged through any and all existing capability exchange frame formats defined in specifications, as well as through formats that may be defined in future specifications. The framework ensures that the STA and AP may effectively communicate with their respective capabilities, facilitating an efficient and cooperative wireless connection.

[0097] Fig. 7Aillustrates a sequence diagram for a scenario involving two Access Points (AP 702 and AP 706) and a Station (STA 704), all of which support STA assistance information capabilities. In this exemplary scenario, the process begins with Step 1.

[0098] - STEP 1 (S1): The STA 704 receives a beacon message from AP 702. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the beacon message comprises a capability information element that includes support for STA assistance information.

[0099] - STEP 2 (S2): The STA 704 transmits an association request message to AP 702. The association request message may comprise the STA assistance information capability support.

[0100] - STEP 3 (S3): AP 702 transmits an optional association response message to the STA 704. The optional association response message may comprise STA assistance information capability support, providing flexibility in the communication as per legacy design.

[0101] - STEP 4 (S4): An event occurs at STA 704, such as a temporary blockage, which may cause a disruption in service from AP 702. The event triggers the STA 704 to attempt to roam and find another suitable AP, which could lead to a ping-pong event.

[0102] - STEP 5 (S5): The STA 704 transmits a probe request message to AP 706. The probe request message comprises the STA assistance information capability support.

[0103] - STEP 6 (S6): AP 706, which also supports STA assistance, receives the probe request. AP 706 then transmits a probe response message back to the STA 704, and the probe response message comprises its own STA assistance information capability support.

[0104] - STEP 7 (S7): A ping-pong event is detected at the STA 704, which corresponds to multiple handoffs between AP 702 and AP 706.

[0105] - STEP 8 (S8): Since AP 706 has indicated support for STA assistance, AP 706 transmit a recommendation to the STA 704 to resolve the ping-pong issue, utilizing AP 706 capabilities.

[0106] Hence, the sequence diagram ofFig. 7Aillustrates a seamless and efficient method for handling a ping-pong event within a wireless network where both the APs (AP 702 and AP 706) and the STA 704 are capable of supporting STA assistance information. By leveraging the initial exchange of capability information in beacon, association, and probe messages, the STA 704 is able to identify a capable AP during a ping pong event. Upon detecting a ping-pong issue, the STA 704 may confidently rely on the new AP to provide a relevant recommendation.

[0107] Fig. 7Billustrates a sequence diagram for a scenario involving two Access Points (AP 702 and AP 706) and a Station (STA 704), however, only AP 702 supports STA assistance information and AP 706 does not support STA assistance information. In this exemplary scenario, the process begins with Step 1:

[0108] - STEP 1 (S1): The STA 704 receives a beacon message from AP 702. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the beacon message comprises a capability information element that includes support for STA assistance information.

[0109] - STEP 2 (S2): The STA 704 transmits an association request message to AP 702, which may comprise STA assistance information capability support corresponding to AP 702.

[0110] - STEP 3 (S3): AP 702 transmits an optional association response message to the STA 704, which may comprise the STA assistance information capability support.

[0111] - STEP 4 (S4): An event occurs at the STA 704, such as a temporary blockage, which may cause a disruption in service from AP 702. The event triggers the STA to attempt to find another suitable AP, potentially causing a ping-pong event.

[0112] - STEP 5 (S5): The STA 704 transmits a probe request message to AP 706 comprising the STA assistance information capability support.

[0113] - STEP 6 (S6): AP 706, which does not support STA assistance, receives the probe request. AP 706 transmits a legacy probe response message back to the STA 704, which does not include any STA assistance information capability. This allows the STA 704 to determine that AP 706 cannot provide assistance.

[0114] - STEP 7 (S7): A ping-pong event is detected at the STA 704, followed by multiple handoffs between the AP 702 and the AP 706.

[0115] - STEP 8 (S8): Since AP 706 does not support STA assistance, the STA 704 decides to go back to AP 702, which STA 704 has determined can provide the necessary assistance.

[0116] - STEP 9 (S9): AP 702 transmits a recommendation to the STA 704 to help resolve the ping-pong event.

[0117] Hence, the sequence diagram ofFig. 7Bhighlights the critical role of capability information exchange in a mixed-capability network environment. The STA 704 is able to determine that the new AP does not support the required features. The awareness allows the STA 704 to avoid sending further unnecessary request to the new AP and instead, make an informed decision to return to the original, capable AP for assistance. The process effectively prevents the STA 704 from engaging in unproductive communication with an unsupportive AP, thereby showcasing how a simple capability exchange can significantly improve network efficiency and ensure that the STA receives the necessary support to mitigate issues like a ping-pong event.

[0118] Fig. 8illustrates the flowchart indicating message frame format, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0119] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the STA assistance capability information 801 may be implemented in two ways. The first method, shown as STA assistance capability information in UHR capability 801a comprises integrating the STA assistance capabilities within the existing Ultra-High-Reliability (UHR) capability information element. This approach utilizes existing framework and signaling, minimizing changes to current specifications.

[0120] The second method, labeled STA assistance capability information element defined separately 801b comprises defining a new, standalone information element exclusively for STA assistance capabilities. This approach offers a more modular and extensible solution, allowing for greater detail and future expansion of the assistance information without impacting existing capability fields.

[0121] Fig. 9illustrates the options for indicating STA Assistance capabilities, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0122] In an embodiment of the present disclosure,Fig. 9illustrates the various options for indicating STA Assistance capabilities within different types of wireless communication messages. As depicted, the capability information is typically conveyed in beacon, association request / response, and probe request / response messages. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the STA Assistance capabilities are defined to be part of the UHR capabilities information element. The present disclosure integrates the STA assistance capabilities within the ultra-high reliability (UHR) media access control (MAC) capabilities field. The integration allows the STA assistance information to be seamlessly communicated within existing, standardized frame formats, ensuring backward compatibility.

[0123] Fig. 10illustrates the frame format for STA assistance capabilities within UHR capabilities, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0124] Fig. 10depicts a detailed frame format for the integration of STA assistance capabilities within the UHR capabilities information element. As shown, the UHR capabilities are part of a larger frame structure, which includes an Element ID 1002, a Length 1004, an Element ID extension 1006, and fields for UHR MAC capability 1008 and UHR PHY capability 1010. The present disclosure integrates the STA assistance information capability 1014 within the UHR MAC capability field.

[0125] The detailed frame format for the STA assistance information capability is further expanded upon in the lower portion. The lower section shows a flexible structure that may accommodate various types of assistance features. The format includes, as detailed in Table 2, a STA assistance Type ID 1016, which is used to identify the specific type of assistance being referenced (e.g., ping-pong, overheating, or power saving). The following Length 1018 field indicates the size of the subsequent STA assistance capabilities 1020 element. The capabilities element is a customized set of fields unique to the specific assistance feature. For example, as illustrated inFig 10, for a ping-pong assistance feature, the capabilities element may include fields for hysteresis support 1028, delay support 1030, and other STA specific information 1032.

[0126] Fig. 11illustrates the frame format for STA assistance capabilities, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0127] Fig. 11illustrates an alternative frame format for integrating STA assistance capabilities within the UHR capabilities information element. Similar to other embodiments, the STA assistance capability information is located within the UHR MAC capability 1108 field of a larger frame, which includes an Element ID 1102 and a Length 1104. This variant, however, uses a different internal structure to represent the STA assistance capabilities. The variant for STA assistance information capability 1114 begins with a STA assistance ID 1116, which serves as a unique identifier for the following section containing the assistance capabilities. This is followed by the Number of STA Assistance information 1118 field, which explicitly indicates the number of distinct assistance features supported.

[0128] Following the explicit number count, the frame includes a sequence of STA assistance IDs (e.g., STA assistance ID 1 1120, STA assistance ID 2 1122, up to STA assistance ID N 112N), each corresponding to a specific supported feature. This structured format provides a clear and scalable method for communicating multiple STA assistance features within a single information element. The mapping of the ID to the specific feature, such as "Ping pong assistance" or "Overheating assistance," is defined separately. The approach ensures that the framework is forward-compatible and can easily accommodate new STA assistance features as they are developed.

[0129] Fig. 12illustrates the options for indicating STA assistance capabilities, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0130] As disclosed inFig. 12,in an alternative embodiment for indicating STA assistance capabilities by defining a new, distinct information element. In this approach, the STA assistance capabilities are not integrated within an existing element like UHR capabilities but are instead treated as a separate element. The new element is introduced into the capability list transmitted within various messages, including Beacon, Association Request / Response, and Probe Request / Response frames. The approach allows for a cleaner separation, where STA assistance information is not tied to the specifics of UHR technology but may be utilized in various communication contexts.

[0131] To implement, the STA Assistance capabilities information element is assigned a new order in the capability lists of each frame format. A new, unique Element ID and the corresponding definition must also be established in the relevant specifications. As shown in theFig. 12, the new element has Element ID (255) and Element ID extension (Last assigned + 1), with the flexibility of being extensible. The dedicated element provides a clear and standardized way for APs and STAs to communicate their support for assistance features, enabling greater clarity and future expansion. The approach provides a robust and flexible solution for introducing STA assistance capabilities into the wireless communication protocol.

[0132] Fig. 13illustrates a system for providing assistance support by an access point (AP) in Ultra High Reliability (UHR) capability framework, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0133] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the system 1300 may comprise an AP 1302, a memory 1304, one or more processors 1306, input / output (I / O) interface 1308 and a STA 1310. The one or more processors 1306 are communicatively connected to the memory 1304 and the I / O interface 1308. It may be noted that, in some embodiments, the system 1300 may include more or fewer components than those depicted herein. The various components of the system 1300 may be implemented using hardware, software, firmware, or any combinations thereof. Further, the various components of the system 1300 may be operably coupled with each other. More specifically, various components of the system 1300 may be capable of communicating with each other using communication channel media (such as buses, interconnects, etc.).

[0134] In one embodiment, the memory 1304 is capable of storing machine executable instructions, referred to herein as instructions. In an embodiment, the one or more processors 1306 is embodied as an executor of software instructions. As such, the one or more processors 1306 is capable of executing the instructions stored in the memory 1304 to perform one or more operations described herein.

[0135] The memory 1304 can be any type of storage accessible to the one or more processors 1306 to perform respective functionalities. For example, the memory 1304 may include one or more volatile or non-volatile memories, or a combination thereof. For example, the memory 1304 may be embodied as semiconductor memories, such as flash memory, mask ROM, PROM (programmable ROM), EPROM (erasable PROM), RAM (random access memory), etc. and the like.

[0136] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the one or more processors 1306 are configured to transmit to a station (STA) 1310, a beacon frame comprising AP assistance capability support information. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the AP assistance capability support information comprises information relating to one or more AP inbuilt capabilities to address the one or more events triggered at the STA 1310. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the beacon frame may also comprise probe request and re-association request.

[0137] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the one or more processors 1306 are configured to receive, from the STA 1310, an association request frame. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the association request comprises STA assistance information including at least a STA assistance type identity (ID), length of the STA assistance information, and STA assistance capabilities. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the one or more processors 1306 are further configured to store the STA assistance information in a memory 1304 of the AP.

[0138] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the one or more processors 1306 are configured to establish a connection with the STA 1310 to provide assistance support to the STA 1310 during one or more events based on the association request. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the one or more events comprise at least one of an overheating event, a ping-pong event, a power saving requirement, and a miscellaneous failure event.

[0139] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the one or more processors 1306 are further configured to monitor the connection to detect the one or more events triggered at the STA 1310 and provide, to the STA 1310, the assistance support based on the detection of the one or more events and based on the STA assistance information.

[0140] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the one or more processors 1306 are configured to receive, from the STA 1310, at least one of a probe request and a re-association request associated with the one or more events and provide, to the STA 1310, the assistance support for the one or more events, based on probe request and a re-association request based on the STA assistance information.

[0141] Fig. 14illustrates a system to provide assistance support at a user equipment (STA) in Ultra High Reliability (UHR) capability framework, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0142] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the system 1400 may comprise a STA 1402, a memory 1404, one or more processors 1406, input / output (I / O) interface 1408 and an AP 1410. The one or more processors 1406 are communicatively connected to the memory 1404 and the I / O interface 1408. It may be noted that, in some embodiments, the system 1400 may include more or fewer components than those depicted herein. The various components of the system 1400 may be implemented using hardware, software, firmware, or any combinations thereof. Further, the various components of the system 1400 may be operably coupled with each other. More specifically, various components of the system 1400 may be capable of communicating with each other using communication channel media (such as buses, interconnects, etc.).

[0143] In one embodiment, the memory 1404 is capable of storing machine executable instructions, referred to herein as instructions. In an embodiment, the one or more processors 1406 is embodied as an executor of software instructions. As such, the one or more processors 1406 is capable of executing the instructions stored in the memory 1404 to perform one or more operations described herein.

[0144] The memory 1404 can be any type of storage accessible to the one or more processors 1406 to perform respective functionalities. For example, the memory 1404 may include one or more volatile or non-volatile memories, or a combination thereof. For example, the memory 1404 may be embodied as semiconductor memories, such as flash memory, mask ROM, PROM (programmable ROM), EPROM (erasable PROM), RAM (random access memory), etc. and the like.

[0145] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the one or more processors 1406 are further configured to receive from an access point (AP) 1410, a beacon frame comprising AP assistance capability support information. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the one or more processors 1406 are configured to store the AP capability support information in the memory 1404 of the STA 1402. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the beacon frame may also comprise probe request and re-association request.

[0146] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the one or more processors 1406 are configured to process the beacon frame to analyse the AP assistance capability to address the one or more events triggered at the STA 1402 and detect one or more events at the STA 1402. The one or more processors 1406 are then configured to switch from the AP to another AP based on AP assistance capability to address the detected one or more events at the STA 1402 and receive, from the other AP, assistance support for the detected one or more events.

[0147] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the one or more events comprises at least one of an overheating event, ping-pong event, power saving requirement and miscellaneous failure event.

[0148] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the one or more processors 1406 are further configured to determine a requirement to share STA assistance information with the AP based on beacon frame. The one or more processors 1406 are further configured to define the STA assistance information in UHR media access control (MAC) capabilities include STA Assistance Type ID, Length, STA assistance information specific to the Type ID.

[0149] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the one or more processors 1406 are further configured to transmit, to the AP, an association request for receiving assistance support during one or more events in response to the determined requirement. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the association request comprises STA assistance information including at least STA assistance type identity (ID), a length of the STA assistance information, and STA assistance capabilities.

[0150] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the one or more processors 1406 are further configured to define the STA assistance information comprising number of STA Assistance ID, STA Assistance ID value and associated STA assistance information. The STA assistance information is defined separately as an element format for STA assistance information and is transmitted independent of UHR MAC capabilities.

[0151] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the one or more processors 1406 are further configured to detect one or more events at the STA 1402 and transmit, to the AP, at least one of a probe request and a re-association request indicating the detection of the one or more events. The one or more processors 1406 are then configured to receive, from the AP, the assistance support based on the at least one of the probe request and the re-association request. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the one or more processors 1406 are further configured to share with the other AP the STA assistance information in a re-association request message.

[0152] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the one or more processors 1406 are further configured to receive, from the AP, assistance support during one or more.

[0153] The present disclosure provides a solution to enable the STA to overcome multiple issues like overheating, power saving issues, have typical performance requirements. The present disclosure provides a new framework required to communicate the STA Assistance capability between the AP and STA so that devices that support this feature are able to utilize the assistance information and the devices that do not support this issue have no unpredictable behaviours. The framework introduced enables STA to receive assistance from AP some of the APs have certain inbuilt solutions to handle the aforementioned issues related to STA and provide certain assistance.

[0154] Fig. 15illustrates a flowchart of a method for providing assistance support by an access point (AP) in Ultra High Reliability (UHR) capability framework, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0155] At step 1502, the method 1500 comprises transmitting, to a station (STA), a beacon frame comprising AP assistance capability support information. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the AP assistance capability support information comprises information relating to one or more AP inbuilt capabilities to address the one or more events triggered at the STA. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the beacon frame may also comprise probe request and re-association request

[0156] At step 1504, the method 1500 comprises receiving, from the STA, an association request frame. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the association request comprises STA assistance information including at least a STA assistance type identity (ID), a Length of the STA assistance information, and a STA specific assistance capability (or capabilities). In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the method 1400 further comprises storing the STA assistance information in a memory of the AP.

[0157] At step 1506, the method 1500 comprises establishing a connection with the STA for providing assistance support to the STA during one or more events based on the association request. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the one or more events comprise at least one of an overheating event, a ping-pong event, a power saving requirement, and a miscellaneous failure event.

[0158] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the method 1500 further comprises monitoring the connection to detect the one or more events triggered at the STA and providing, to the STA, the assistance support based on the detection of the one or more events and based on the STA assistance information.

[0159] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the method 1500 further comprises receiving, from the STA, at least one of a probe request and a re-association request associated with the one or more events and providing, to the STA, the assistance support for the one or more events, based on the probe request and a re-association request and based on the STA assistance information.

[0160] The sequence of operations of the method 1500 need not be necessarily executed in the same order as they are presented. Further, one or more operations may be grouped together and performed in form of a single step, or one operation may have several sub-steps that may be performed in parallel or in sequential manner.

[0161] The disclosed method 1500 with reference to Fig. 15, or one or more operations of the system 1300 explained with reference to fig. 13 may be implemented using software including computer-executable instructions stored on one or more computer-readable media (e.g., non-transitory computer-readable media, such as one or more optical media discs, volatile memory components (e.g., DRAM or SRAM), or non-volatile memory or storage components (e.g., hard drives or solid-state non-volatile memory components, such as Flash memory components) and executed on a computer (e.g., any suitable computer, such as a laptop computer, net book, Web book, tablet computing device, smart phone, or other mobile computing device). Such software may be executed, for example, on a single local computer

[0162] Fig. 16illustrates a flowchart of a method for providing assistance support at a user equipment (STA) in Ultra High Reliability (UHR) capability framework, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0163] At step 1602, the method 1600 comprises receiving, from an access point (AP), a beacon frame comprising AP assistance capability support information. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, storing the AP capability support information in a memory of the STA. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the beacon frame may also comprise probe request and re-association request.

[0164] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the method 1600 comprises processing the beacon frame for analysing the AP assistance capability to address the one or more events triggered at the STA and detecting one or more events at the STA. Further, the method 1600 may comprises switching from the AP to another AP based on AP assistance capability to address the detected one or more events at the STA and receiving, from the other AP, assistance support for the detected one or more events.

[0165] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the one or more events comprise at least one of an overheating event, ping-pong event, power saving requirement and a miscellaneous failure event.

[0166] At step 1604, the method 1600 comprises determining a requirement for sharing STA assistance information with the AP based on beacon frame. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the method 1600 comprises defining the STA assistance information in UHR media access control (MAC) capabilities including STA Assistance Type ID, Length, STA assistance information specific to the Type ID.

[0167] At step 1606, the method 1600 comprises transmitting, to the AP, an association request for receiving assistance support during one or more events in response to the determined requirement. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the association request comprises STA assistance information including at least a STA assistance type identity (ID), a length of the STA assistance information, and STA specific assistance capabilities.

[0168] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the method 1600 comprises defining STA assistance information comprising number of STA Assistance ID, STA Assistance ID value and associated STA assistance information. The STA assistance information is defined separately as an element format for STA assistance information and is transmitted independent of UHR MAC capabilities.

[0169] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the method 1600 further comprises detecting one or more events at the STA and transmitting, to the AP, at least one of a probe request and a re-association request indicating the detection of the one or more events. Further the method 1600 comprises receiving, from the AP, the assistance support based on the at least one of the probe request and the re-association request. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the method 1600 further comprises sharing with the other AP the STA assistance information in a re-association request message.

[0170] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the method 1600 further comprises receiving, from the AP, assistance support during one or more events.

[0171] The sequence of operations of the method 1600 need not be necessarily executed in the same order as they are presented. Further, one or more operations may be grouped together and performed in form of a single step, or one operation may have several sub-steps that may be performed in parallel or in sequential manner.

[0172] The disclosed method 1600 with reference to Fig. 16, or one or more operations of the system 1400 explained with reference to fig. 14 may be implemented using software including computer-executable instructions stored on one or more computer-readable media (e.g., non-transitory computer-readable media, such as one or more optical media discs, volatile memory components (e.g., DRAM or SRAM), or non-volatile memory or storage components (e.g., hard drives or solid-state non-volatile memory components, such as Flash memory components) and executed on a computer (e.g., any suitable computer, such as a laptop computer, net book, Web book, tablet computing device, smart phone, or other mobile computing device). Such software may be executed, for example, on a single local computer.

[0173] The present disclosure provides a solution to enable the STA to overcome multiple issues like overheating, power save issues, have typical performance requirements. The present disclosure provides a new framework required to communicate the STA Assistance capability between the AP and STA so that devices that support this feature are able to utilize the assistance information and the devices that do not support this issue have no unpredictable behaviours. The framework introduced enables STA to receive assistance from AP some of the APs have certain inbuilt solutions to handle the aforementioned issues related to STA and provide certain assistance.

[0174] Furthermore, one or more computer-readable storage media may be utilized in implementing embodiments consistent with the present disclosure. A computer-readable storage medium refers to any type of physical memory on which information or data readable by a processor may be stored. Thus, a computer-readable storage medium may store instructions for execution by one or more processors, including instructions for causing the processor(s) to perform steps or stages consistent with the embodiments described herein. The term "computer-readable medium" may be understood to include tangible items and exclude carrier waves and transient signals, i.e., be non-transitory. Examples include Random Access Memory (RAM), Read-Only Memory (ROM), volatile memory, non-volatile memory, hard drives, CD (Compact Disc) ROMs, DVDs, flash drives, disks, and any other known physical storage media.

[0175] The terms "an embodiment", "embodiment", "embodiments", "the embodiment", "the embodiments", "one or more embodiments", "some embodiments", and "one embodiment" mean "one or more (but not all) embodiments of the invention(s)" unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0176] The terms "including", "comprising", "having" and variations thereof mean "including but not limited to", unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0177] The enumerated listing of items does not imply that any or all of the items are mutually exclusive, unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms "a", "an" and "the" mean "one or more", unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0178] A description of an embodiment with several components in communication with each other does not imply that all such components are required. On the contrary a variety of optional components are described to illustrate the wide variety of possible embodiments of the invention.

[0179] When a single device or article is described herein, it will be readily apparent that more than one device / article (whether or not they cooperate) may be used in place of a single device / article. Similarly, where more than one device or article is described herein (whether or not they cooperate), it will be readily apparent that a single device / article may be used in place of more than one device or article, or a different number of devices / articles may be used instead of the shown number of devices or programs. The functionality and / or the features of a device may be alternatively embodied by one or more other devices which are not explicitly described as having such functionality / features. Thus, other embodiments of the invention need not include the device itself.

[0180] Finally, the language used in the specification has been principally selected for readability and instructional purposes, and it may not have been selected to delineate or circumscribe the inventive subject matter. While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims

1.A method for providing assistance support by an access point, AP, for an ultra high reliability, UHR, capability framework, the method comprising:transmitting (1502), to a station, STA, a beacon frame comprising AP assistance capability support information;receiving (1504), from the STA, an association request, wherein the association request comprises STA assistance information including at least one of a STA assistance type identity, ID, a length of the STA assistance information, or at least one STA specific assistance capability; andestablishing (1506) a connection with the STA for providing the assistance support to the STA for one or more events based on the association request.2.The method of claim 1, further comprising:monitoring the connection to detect the one or more events triggered at the STA,wherein the assistance support is provided to the STA based on the detection of the one or more events and based on the STA assistance information.3.The method of claim 1, further comprising:receiving, from the STA, at least one of a probe request or a re-association request associated with the one or more events,wherein the assistance support for the one or more events is provided to the STA based on receiving at least one of the probe request or a re-association request and based on the STA assistance information.4.The method of claim 1, wherein the one or more events comprise at least one of an overheating event, a ping-pong event, a power saving requirement, or a miscellaneous failure event.5.The method of claim 1, further comprising:storing the STA assistance information in a memory of the AP.6.The method of claim 1, wherein the AP assistance capability support information comprises information relating to one or more AP inbuilt capabilities to address the one or more events triggered at the STA.7.A method for receiving assistance support by a station, STA, for an ultra high reliability, UHR, capability framework, the method comprising:receiving (1602), from an access point, AP, a beacon frame comprising AP assistance capability support information;determining (1604) a requirement for sharing STA assistance information with the AP based on beacon frame; andtransmitting (1606), to the AP, an association request for receiving the assistance support for one or more events based on the determined requirement, wherein the association request comprise the STA assistance information including at least one of a STA assistance type identity, ID, a length of the STA assistance information, or at least one STA specific assistance capability.8.The method of claim 7, wherein the one or more events comprise at least one of: an overheating event, ping-pong event, power saving requirement or a miscellaneous failure event.9.The method of claim 7, further comprising:receiving, from the AP, the assistance support for the one or more events.10.The method of claim 7, further comprising:detecting one or more events at the STA;transmitting, to the AP, at least one of a probe request or a re-association request indicating the detection of the one or more events; andreceiving, from the AP, the assistance support based on at least one of the at least one of the probe request or the re-association request.11.The method of claim 7, further comprising:storing the AP capability support information in a memory of the STA.12.The method of claim 7, further comprising:processing the beacon frame for analysing the AP assistance capability to address the one or more events triggered at the STA;detecting one or more events at the STA;switching from the AP to another AP based on the AP assistance capability to address the detected one or more events at the STA; andreceiving, from the other AP, the assistance support for the detected one or more events.13.The method of claim 12, further comprising sharing, with the other AP, the STA assistance information using a re-association request message.14.The method of claim 7, further comprising:defining the STA assistance information comprising a number of STA Assistance ID, an STA Assistance ID value and associated STA assistance information, andwherein the STA assistance information is defined separately as an element format for the STA assistance information and is transmitted independent of UHR media access control, MAC, capabilities.15.An access point, AP, (1300) for providing assistance support for an ultra high reliability, UHR, capability framework, the AP comprising:memory (1304) storing instructions; andat least one processor (1306) operably coupled to the memory, wherein the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the AP to perform operations according to a method in one of claims 1 to 6.

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