Access Point Mode Coordination for Power-Saving Traffic Offload
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication networks face challenges in managing Access Point (AP) operating modes, particularly when high-priority data transmissions require mode transitions, leading to increased power consumption and compromised service quality.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method and system for managing AP operating modes by identifying a neighboring AP in High Capability Mode (HCM) to offload high-priority data transmissions, using pre-established coordination information for efficient power-saving transitions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the AP switches to High Capability Mode (HCM) to serve high-priority data transmissions, then the data transmission capability is improved, but the power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the high-priority data transmission function from the serving AP and relocates it to a neighboring AP operating in HCM. This allows the serving AP to remain in LCM and save power, while the neighboring AP handles the high-capability requirements. The client device is redirected to the neighboring AP for this specific function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a coordination entity as an intermediary that manages the interaction between the serving AP, neighboring APs, and the client device. This entity facilitates the redirection process and mode management, enabling the serving AP to offload high-priority transmissions without directly transitioning to HCM itself.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the AP remains in Low Capability Mode (LCM) to save power, then the power consumption is reduced, but the ability to handle high-priority data transmissions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the resources of multiple APs to provide comprehensive service. The serving AP operates in LCM for general low-power operation, while neighboring APs operate in HCM for high-capability transmissions. The coordination entity merges these different operational modes to satisfy both power-saving requirements and high-priority data transmission needs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the AP frequently transitions between LCM and HCM modes, then the adaptability to traffic requirements is improved, but the service quality and power efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-establishing coordination relationships between the serving AP and neighboring APs before high-priority transmissions occur. The coordination entity maintains information about neighboring APs' capabilities and operational modes in advance, enabling quick redirection without frequent mode transitions at the serving AP, thus maintaining service quality.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for managing an operating mode of a serving AP includes: receiving an indication to transmit data. The serving AP is operating in one of an LCM or a HCM with a scheduled LCM. The indication to transmit data require the serving AP to perform one of switching to the HCM based on the serving AP operating in the LCM, or extending the HCM during the scheduled LCM based on the serving AP operating in the HCM. The method includes identifying a neighboring AP, based on established coordination information exchanged among the serving AP and one or more neighboring APs. The neighboring AP is operating in the HCM. The method includes performing a redirection procedure to the neighboring AP, to offload the associated client device and serve the received indication to transmit data.