AP Multi-Link Communication for EMLSR Capability Signaling

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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 functionality in multi-link operations.

Innovation Solution

A communication apparatus capable of operating as an AP MLD is equipped with a mechanism to establish a multilink and transmit information related to EMLSR mode, enabling appropriate notifications to non-AP MLDs and enhancing multi-link operation convenience.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the IEEE 802.11 standard is followed strictly, then standard compliance is maintained, but AP MLDs cannot operate in EMLSR mode due to lack of specification

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveEMLSR mode operation capabilityVSAvoidstandard compliance

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of waiting for the standard to be updated to enable EMLSR mode operation, the patent inverts the approach by implementing EMLSR mode functionality directly in the AP MLD device. The AP MLD transmits information indicating its capability to operate in EMLSR mode and actively manages the mode operation, thereby achieving adaptability while maintaining reliable standard-compliant communication through proper capability negotiation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

2Loss of information

If AP MLDs transmit information about EMLSR mode capability, then non-AP MLDs can be appropriately notified, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenotification capability to non-AP MLDVSAvoidinformation transmission mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs existing IEEE 802.11 information element structures and capability negotiation mechanisms to convey EMLSR mode capability. By utilizing universal communication frameworks already present in the standard, the AP MLD can notify non-AP MLDs of its EMLSR capability without introducing entirely new complex protocols, thereby reducing information loss while minimizing the increase in device complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP4697851A1Communication device, communication device control method, and program

Publication Date: 2026.02.18 CANON KK

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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.