Multi-Link Wi-Fi FILS IP Configuration for Faster Link Setup
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Wi-Fi technologies face challenges in efficiently managing IP address configurations for devices supporting multi-link communications across multiple frequency bands, particularly in scenarios requiring low-latency and high-bandwidth connections.
Innovation Solution
A communication method and device that support multi-link communications by enabling Fast Initial Link Setup (FILS) IP address configurations through message frames, allowing devices to request and assign IP addresses across multiple links, either shared or distinct, using MLD-level or link-level elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If devices communicate simultaneously in multiple frequency bands with aggregation and cooperation technologies, then bandwidth and throughput are increased, but IP address configuration complexity and signaling overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the IP address configuration process by introducing separate information elements for different link types (intra-AP links and inter-AP links). Each link type can have its own IP address assignment policy, allowing independent configuration management. This segmentation reduces the complexity of managing IP addresses across multiple frequency bands by breaking down the monolithic configuration process into manageable segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by enabling IP address configuration information to be carried in beacon frames and probe response frames during the initial connection establishment phase. This allows devices to pre-configure IP address assignment policies before actual data transmission begins, reducing signaling overhead during ongoing communications and simplifying the overall configuration process.
2Loss of time
If Fast Initial Link Setup (FILS) IP address configuration is implemented for multi-link devices, then connection establishment speed is improved, but message frame structure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the IP address configuration information with existing beacon frames and probe response frames used in Wi-Fi connectivity establishment. By combining multiple functions (connection establishment signaling and IP address configuration) into a single message frame structure, the patent reduces the number of separate signaling exchanges needed, thereby speeding up connection establishment while managing frame structure complexity through integration rather than proliferation of separate messages.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes existing message frames universal by enabling them to carry both connection establishment information and IP address configuration information simultaneously. This multi-functionality allows a single message frame to accomplish multiple tasks, reducing the overall signaling overhead and accelerating the connection establishment process without requiring separate dedicated configuration messages.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate IP addresses are assigned for each link in multi-link communication, then routing flexibility is improved, but signaling overhead and configuration complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by allowing different IP address assignment policies for different link types (intra-AP vs. inter-AP links). Instead of enforcing a uniform approach across all links, the system can assign separate IP addresses for inter-AP links where routing flexibility is needed, while using shared IP addresses for intra-AP links where simplicity suffices. This localized differentiation optimizes routing flexibility only where necessary, reducing overall signaling overhead.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a communication method and a communication device. The communication method may include: determining a first message frame, wherein the first message frame includes information for instructing a station device to request a fast initial link setup (FILS) IP address configuration; and sending the first message frame.