Multi-Link Control Frame Padding for Channel Switch Delay
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication systems lack a method to accurately determine the padding duration for initial control frames in multi-link devices, leading to inefficiencies in channel switching delays.
Innovation Solution
A method is provided to determine the padding duration of initial control frames based on the duration of a control response frame, using indication information carried in enhanced multi-link fields, allowing non-AP MLDs to complete channel switching before subsequent data frames arrive.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If padding bits are added to the initial control frame to allow channel switching, then the non-AP MLD can complete channel switching before the data frame arrives, but the transmission time of the initial control frame increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the non-AP MLD indicate its channel switching capability and required padding duration to the AP MLD before the actual data transmission occurs. This allows the AP MLD to pre-calculate and include the appropriate padding bits in the initial control frame, ensuring the non-AP MLD has sufficient time to switch channels before the data frame arrives, while avoiding excessive padding that would waste transmission time.
2Reliability
If more padding bits are added to accommodate longer switch delay, then the non-AP MLD can complete channel switching, but the efficiency of the communication system decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the padding duration based on the specific channel switching capability of the non-AP MLD. The non-AP MLD indicates its required padding duration through indication information, and the AP MLD calculates the exact number of padding bits needed based on this indication and the control response frame duration. This ensures the minimum necessary padding is added, avoiding excessive padding that would reduce communication efficiency while still guaranteeing reliable channel switching.
3Reliability
If the AP MLD adds padding bits without accurate determination, then channel switching may be completed, but the padding duration cannot be accurately determined leading to potential delays or wasted time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by having the non-AP MLD provide indication information to the AP MLD about its channel switching capability and requirements. The AP MLD uses this feedback to calculate the appropriate padding duration based on the control response frame duration and the indicated switching delay. This feedback mechanism ensures the padding duration is accurately determined, preventing both insufficient padding that would cause switching delays and excessive padding that would waste time.
Data Source
AI summary
A non-AP MLD or a first STA in the non-AP MLD generates a first frame. The first frame includes indication information for indicating padding duration for a channel switch delay in an initial control frame. The padding duration is determined based on duration of a control response frame. The non-AP MLD or the first STA or another STA in the non-AP MLD transmits the first frame. An AP MLD or a first AP or another AP in the AP MLD receives the first frame. The AP MLD or the first AP determines the padding duration of the initial control frame based on the indication information.