Link Aggregation Interface Grouping for Wireless Throughput

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Solution Overview

Problem

In wireless communication systems, existing technologies face challenges in efficiently selecting access points (APs) capable of link aggregation, which affects the throughput and reliability of wireless networks, particularly in environments with multiple AP interfaces and varying link conditions.

Innovation Solution

A processing system is configured to identify AP interfaces supporting link aggregation, group them, select the optimal group for communication, and initialize link aggregation by sending information to the selected interfaces, allowing for improved channel selection and aggregation techniques such as flow level, packet level, and TDLS-based aggregation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If multiple AP interfaces are used for link aggregation, then aggregated throughput is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaggregated throughputVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the AP interfaces into distinct groups based on their aggregation capabilities. Each interface is evaluated and categorized independently, allowing the system to manage multiple interfaces through structured segmentation rather than treating them as a monolithic complex system. This segmentation approach enables selective activation of aggregation-capable interfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamic management of link aggregation by continuously monitoring link conditions and adapting the aggregation configuration accordingly. The system can dynamically add or remove interfaces from aggregation groups based on real-time performance metrics, making the system adaptable rather than static, thereby managing complexity through flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If link aggregation is implemented, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovereliabilityVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service mechanisms where the system automatically identifies which interfaces support link aggregation, groups them appropriately, and manages the aggregation configuration without requiring manual intervention. The system autonomously monitors link conditions and adjusts aggregation settings, eliminating the operational burden from users while maintaining high reliability through consistent automated management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes operational parameters by automatically adjusting aggregation configurations based on detected interface capabilities and link conditions. Instead of requiring manual parameter setting, the system dynamically modifies aggregation parameters such as which interfaces are grouped together, thereby maintaining reliability while simplifying operation through automated parameter management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Productivity

If optimal group selection is performed, then aggregated throughput is improved, but loss of time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaggregated throughputVSAvoidloss of time
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-identifying and grouping interfaces that support link aggregation before actual data transmission begins. The system proactively evaluates interface capabilities and establishes aggregation groups in advance, so that when data transmission is needed, the optimal configuration is already in place. This preliminary setup reduces the time penalty associated with dynamic optimization during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS9288139B2Methods for selection of link aggregation capable access points
Publication Date: 2016.03.15 QUALCOMM INC
  • US9288139B2 patent drawing
  • US9288139B2 patent drawing
  • US9288139B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method, an apparatus, and a computer program product for wireless communication are provided. In one aspect, an apparatus includes a processor configured to identify at least one interface (e.g., AP interface) configured to support link aggregation, identify one or more groups of the at least one interface, wherein all interfaces of a respective group are configured to be aggregated together, identify supported link aggregation types per group, select one of the groups to support communication via link aggregation, select at least one interface of the selected group, and send information to the selected at least one interface to initialize link aggregation.