Multi-Link AP EMLSR Capability Signaling During Association
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Solution Overview
Problem
The IEEE 802.11 standard does not specify a method for Access Point Multi-Link Devices (AP MLDs) to operate in the Enhanced Multi-Link Single Radio (EMLSR) mode, limiting their capability in multi-link operations.
Innovation Solution
A communication apparatus and method that enables an AP MLD to establish a multilink with another device and transmit information related to EMLSR mode operation, allowing it to issue appropriate notifications to non-AP MLDs, thereby facilitating EMLSR mode operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the IEEE 802.11 standard does not specify a method for AP MLDs to operate in EMLSR mode, then the standard remains simple and backward compatible, but AP MLDs cannot operate in EMLSR mode despite non-AP MLDs being able to
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the AP MLD proactively transmit capability indication information before the connection establishment process. This allows the non-AP MLD to understand and properly handle the EMLSR mode setup in advance, resolving the asymmetry in operational capabilities without requiring complex standard revisions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If AP MLDs transmit capability indication information for EMLSR mode, then AP MLDs can operate in EMLSR mode with non-AP MLDs, but the communication protocol becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by integrating the EMLSR capability indication into existing communication frames that are already part of the IEEE 802.11 standard. This allows the same frame structure to serve both traditional multi-link operation and the new EMLSR mode, avoiding the need for separate dedicated protocols and minimizing complexity increase.
3Ease of operation
If AP MLDs wait for non-AP MLDs to initiate connection, then the connection establishment process remains simple, but the AP MLD cannot actively notify its EMLSR capability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by having the AP MLD send capability indication information during the connection establishment process, allowing the non-AP MLD to receive and process this information. This feedback mechanism enables active capability notification while maintaining a relatively simple two-way communication process.
Data Source
AI summary
A communication apparatus capable of operating as an access point establishes a multilink with another communication apparatus in response to a connection request from the other communication apparatus. The communication apparatus transmits information related to an operation in an Enhanced Multi-Link Single Radio (EMLSR) mode in a case where the multilink is established.