Multi-Link Reconfiguration Frames for Throughput and Energy Balance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-link devices face challenges in establishing or reconfiguring links that meet data transmission requirements, leading to inefficiencies in throughput and energy consumption.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for multi-link reconfiguration between two multi-link devices (MLDs) involving the generation and transmission of frames with specific fields to disconnect, add, or transition links, enabling dynamic adjustment of link configurations based on the IEEE 802.11 protocol.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If links are established between two MLDs through association procedure, then communication connection is established, but the links may not satisfy requirements for data transmission
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic link reconfiguration capability to the static association procedure. By enabling MLDs to send reconfiguration frames (BTM request frames) to modify link configurations after association, the system transitions from a fixed connection model to a dynamic one, allowing links to adapt to changing transmission requirements while maintaining connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies link configuration parameters such as target link identification, transition timing, and link state changes through the reconfiguration frame mechanism. This allows the system to change operational parameters of existing links to satisfy different data transmission requirements without establishing entirely new connections.
2Productivity
If multiple links are established to improve throughput, then data transmission rate increases, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system can dynamically adjust the number of active links based on actual transmission needs. By receiving reconfiguration frames, MLDs can transition between multiple-link high-throughput mode and single-link low-power mode, optimizing the balance between productivity and energy consumption according to traffic conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables parameter changes in link configuration including activation/deactivation of specific links and adjustment of operational parameters. This allows the system to change the number of active transmission paths dynamically, reducing energy consumption when high throughput is not required while maintaining the capability to scale up when needed.
3Reliability
If link reconfiguration is implemented, then data transmission requirements are satisfied, but link transition time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary actions by including transition timing information in the reconfiguration frame and preparing transition parameters in advance. The target link can be pre-identified and prepared for data transmission before the actual transition occurs, reducing the overall transition time while ensuring reliable satisfaction of data transmission requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback mechanisms where the second MLD responds to reconfiguration requests with acknowledgment frames indicating acceptance or rejection of the proposed transition. This feedback loop allows for coordinated transition timing and ensures that link reconfiguration only occurs when both devices are ready, minimizing transition time while maintaining reliability.
Data Source
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AI summary
A multi-link reconfiguration method and apparatus relate to the field of communications technologies are provided to reconfigure a link between two MLDs. The method includes: A first MLD generates a first frame, where the first frame is used to reconfigure a link between the first MLD and a second MLD. The first MLD sends the first frame to the second MLD.