Multi-Link Power Save Signaling for Reduced Frame Exchange Overhead
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-link devices (MLDs) require separate frame exchanges on a per-link basis to transition into power save mode, leading to inefficient signaling and poor power management efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A method for power management in MLDs that involves transmitting a first frame to indicate a power management mode for affiliated STAs across multiple links, using either a dedicated Multi-Link Power Management Mode Indication Notification frame or customizing control fields in conventional frames to reduce the need for individual frame exchanges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If separate frame exchanges are initiated on a per-link basis to transition into power save mode, then power management can be controlled for each link, but signaling efficiency deteriorates and power management efficiency becomes poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the power management control for multiple links into a single frame exchange. Instead of initiating separate frame exchanges on each link, the system uses a unified approach where one frame can indicate power management mode changes for multiple links simultaneously, thereby improving signaling efficiency while maintaining control flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal frame structure that can serve multiple functions across different links. The frame indicates power management mode for affiliated STAs on multiple links, making the same frame structure applicable to various link configurations and reducing the need for link-specific frame exchanges.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate frame exchanges are initiated on a per-link basis, then individual link power management can be optimized, but the number of frame exchanges increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple per-link frame exchanges into a single frame exchange that can control power management mode for multiple links simultaneously. This reduces the total number of frame exchanges and associated overhead while still allowing optimized power management for each link through the frame's multi-link indication capability.
3Productivity
If a single frame indicates power management mode for multiple links, then signaling efficiency improves, but the frame structure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal frame structure that can indicate power management mode for multiple links using a standardized format. This multi-functional frame design improves signaling efficiency by reducing the number of frames needed while managing complexity through a consistent, reusable structure rather than requiring complex link-specific frame variations.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a method for power management and a multi-link device (MLD). The method is performed by a first MLD which has established and/or enabled one link including a first link or a plurality of links with a second MLD. The plurality of links include the first link and a second link. The method includes transmitting a first frame on the first link, wherein the first frame is configured to indicate a first power management mode for an affiliated station (STA) corresponding to the second link, or for the affiliated STA corresponding to the second link and an affiliated STA corresponding to the first link. The second link is different from the first link in the plurality of links.