Emulated Wireless AP for Power Efficient TDLS Sessions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication technologies, such as IEEE 802.11, are cumbersome for impromptu peer-to-peer data sharing between PMC devices, as configuring devices for ad hoc mode is difficult and infrastructure mode networks are not always available.
Innovation Solution
Implementing an emulated wireless AP module in PMC devices to establish tunneled direct-link setup (TDLS) sessions, allowing for peer-to-peer and bridged communication while conserving battery life by limiting wireless AP activity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If ad hoc mode is used for peer-to-peer communication, then direct connection between devices is enabled, but configuration becomes cumbersome and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an emulated wireless access point as an intermediary component that simplifies peer-to-peer connection setup. Instead of requiring direct ad hoc mode configuration between devices, the emulated AP acts as a mediator that automatically establishes tunneled direct-link setup sessions, reducing configuration complexity while maintaining direct communication capability
Solution Approach 2:
The emulated wireless AP module performs multiple functions within a single component: it emulates access point behavior, establishes TDLS sessions, manages infrastructure mode communications, and enables both peer-to-peer and bridged communication modes. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate configuration procedures
2Ease of operation
If infrastructure mode is used for wireless communication, then network availability is improved, but direct peer-to-peer connection is not always possible without traversing the Internet
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the wireless communication path into two distinct modes: infrastructure mode for general network access and tunneled direct-link setup mode for direct peer-to-peer communication. The TDLS session creates a dedicated tunnel that separates direct peer-to-peer data transmission from the traditional infrastructure path, enabling efficient local communication while maintaining infrastructure mode availability
Solution Approach 2:
The emulated wireless AP serves as an intermediary that enables direct peer-to-peer connections within the infrastructure mode network. It establishes TDLS sessions that create private tunnels between stations, allowing data to be transmitted directly without traversing the broader Internet infrastructure, thus improving data transmission efficiency while preserving network availability
3Reliability
If wireless AP remains active continuously, then communication readiness is maintained, but battery consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The emulated wireless AP transitions from continuous operation to periodic operation by entering sleep mode between communication sessions. The system wakes up periodically to handle infrastructure mode beacon frames and manage TDLS sessions, then returns to sleep mode. This periodic action maintains communication readiness for when needed while significantly reducing battery consumption during idle periods
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service power management where the emulated wireless AP automatically handles its own wake-up and sleep cycles based on communication needs. The station module manages infrastructure management frames and TDLS session establishment, allowing the AP to sleep without requiring continuous external intervention, thus optimizing the balance between reliability and energy efficiency
Data Source
AI summary
An emulated wireless access point (AP) at a first PMC device (PMC1) establishes a first tunneled direct link setup (TDLS) session between a first station module (STA1) incorporated into the PMC1 and a second station module (STA2) incorporated into a second PMC device (PMC2). Following establishment of the TDLS session, the wireless AP is allowed to sleep; and most infrastructure management duties are handled by the STA1 during the session. PMC device battery charge may be conserved as a result. The emulated wireless AP may also establish a second TDLS link to a third station module (STA3) incorporated into a third PMC device (PMC3). The STA1 may then bridge data traffic flow between the STA2 and the STA3. Such bridging operation may enable communication between two PMC devices otherwise unable to decode data received from the other.