Access Point Dual Processor Power Mode Transition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wireless access points face challenges in conserving power during operation, as existing technologies do not effectively manage power consumption without compromising communication functionality in wireless local-area networks.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus comprises a host device and a wireless network device, where the wireless network device can independently manage power-saving modes by transmitting IEEE 802.11 beacon and probe response frames without communicating with the host processor, allowing for low-power operation and efficient authentication and data exchange with wireless clients.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the host device continuously communicates with the wireless network device to maintain network functionality, then communication reliability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the access point into two independent processors: a first processor handling wired network communications and a second processor handling wireless network communications. This segmentation allows each processor to operate independently, enabling the first processor to enter low-power mode while the second processor maintains wireless network functionality, thus resolving the contradiction between communication reliability and power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The second processor is configured to autonomously transmit beacon frames and probe response frames without requiring communication with or intervention from the first processor. This self-service capability allows the wireless network device to maintain network functionality independently, enabling the first processor to remain in low-power mode longer, thereby reducing overall power consumption while maintaining communication reliability.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the wireless network device operates independently without communicating with the host processor, then power consumption is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the access point into two separate processors with distinct responsibilities: the first processor for wired network operations and the second processor for wireless network operations. This segmentation reduces the operational burden on each processor, allowing the first processor to enter low-power mode while the second processor handles wireless communications independently, thus reducing power consumption without requiring complex coordination mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The second processor is designed with multi-functionality to handle multiple wireless network tasks autonomously, including transmitting beacon frames, responding to probe requests, and managing authentication. This universal capability consolidates multiple functions into a single processor, reducing the need for complex inter-processor communication and coordination, thereby managing device complexity while enabling independent operation.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the host device enters low-power mode frequently, then power conservation is improved, but authentication and data exchange efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The second processor is pre-configured with the capability to autonomously transmit beacon frames and probe response frames before the first processor needs to wake from low-power mode. This preliminary action ensures that wireless network functionality is already established and maintained when the first processor remains in low-power mode, thus achieving power conservation without compromising authentication and data exchange efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The second processor acts as an intermediary that handles wireless network communications independently, including beacon transmission, probe response, and authentication processes. By delegating these functions to the second processor, the first processor can enter and remain in low-power mode for extended periods without affecting authentication efficiency, as the second processor continuously maintains wireless network operations.
Data Source
AI summary
An access point including a first processor and a network device. The network device is separate from the first processor. The first processor transitions between first and second power modes. The network device includes a second processor and first and second interfaces. The second processor, while the first processor is in the second power mode, (i) causes the second interface to transmit a beacon, or (ii) receives a probe request from a client device. The second interface, while the first processor is in the second power mode, (i) transmits a probe response over a wireless local area network to the client device based on the beacon or the probe request, and (ii) receives an authentication frame from the client device based on the probe response. The second processor, in response to the authentication frame, signals the first processor via the first interface to transition to the first power mode.