Link Layer Fast Signaling for BLE Parameter Updates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication systems, particularly those using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), face inefficiencies in updating parameters of connection events, which can lead to suboptimal communication link management, such as termination, suspension, or extension, often requiring host-layer intervention and resulting in slower parameter updates.
Innovation Solution
Implementing fast signaling within the link layer to determine and update connection event parameters independently, allowing for quicker adjustments without host-layer commands, thereby enhancing the speed and efficiency of communication link management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the host layer updates connection event parameters, then the parameter update follows standard protocol procedures, but the update speed is slow due to host-layer intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the connection event parameter update function from the host layer to the link layer. The link layer is divided into a fast signaling sublayer and a classic signaling sublayer, allowing independent fast parameter updates without involving the entire host protocol stack. This segmentation enables speed improvement while maintaining overall system structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a fast signaling sublayer as an intermediary between the classic link layer and the host. This intermediary handles time-critical parameter updates using simplified procedures, preventing the need for complex host-layer intervention while maintaining protocol compatibility. The intermediary resolves the contradiction by providing a dedicated fast path.
2Productivity
If the link layer autonomously updates parameters, then the update speed increases, but the device complexity increases due to additional fast signaling mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic signaling paths where the link layer can autonomously update parameters when conditions permit, and fall back to standard host-layer procedures when necessary. The fast signaling sublayer dynamically activates based on connection event requirements, providing productivity improvement without permanent structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The link layer is empowered to self-service by autonomously determining and updating connection event parameters without requiring host-layer commands. The fast signaling sublayer enables the link layer to independently manage parameter updates, improving productivity while the modular design keeps the added complexity manageable.
3Loss of time
If fast signaling is implemented in the link layer, then the response time for connection event updates is reduced, but the implementation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent prepares fast signaling mechanisms in advance by pre-defining parameter update procedures and validation rules in the link layer. When parameter updates are needed, the pre-prepared fast signaling paths can be immediately activated without complex real-time decision-making, reducing time loss while managing implementation complexity through advance preparation.
Solution Approach 2:
The fast signaling sublayer uses simplified, lightweight parameter update procedures that are easier to implement than full host-layer protocol handling. These simplified signaling objects are designed for single-use parameter updates and can be discarded after completion, reducing implementation complexity while achieving fast response times.
Data Source
AI summary
A device configured to communicate wirelessly with an external device. The device includes a host configured to communicate with application software executing on the device. The device also includes a link layer configured to determine updated parameters for a connection event between the device and the external device. The link layer is also configured to transmit, responsive to the determining, a request characterizing the updated parameters for the connection event to a link layer of the external device. The link layer is configured to send an indication to the host characterizing the updated parameters for the connection event. The link layer adjusts the parameters of the connection event between the device and the external device to reflect the updated parameters responsive to the sending.