Multi-link Listen Mode Optimization for MLD Power Management
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems for multi-radio multi-link devices (MLDs) lack optimization for power save modes across multiple links, leading to inefficiencies in power management and network performance.
Innovation Solution
An optimized multi-link listen mode system is introduced, allowing non-AP MLDs with multiple links to operate in a power save mode where they can transition from listen mode on one link to full power mode on multiple links upon receiving an initial control frame, and then return to sleep mode after the transmission opportunity is complete.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If non-AP MLDs operate in power save mode on multiple links, then power consumption is reduced, but network responsiveness and performance may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the power management into separate controllable units per link. Each link can independently transition between listen mode and full power mode based on its specific needs, allowing the device to conserve power on inactive links while maintaining full performance on active links. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by enabling granular power control rather than forcing all-or-nothing power states across all links.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic power state transitions where non-AP MLDs can flexibly switch between listen mode and full power mode on each link based on real-time network conditions and traffic requirements. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to optimize power consumption during low-activity periods while ensuring immediate full performance when network activity is detected, resolving the static trade-off between power saving and responsiveness.
2Use of energy by moving object
If non-AP MLDs stay in listen mode across multiple links, then power is conserved, but the device cannot receive transmissions on all links simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by allowing different links to be in different power states simultaneously. One link can remain in listen mode for power conservation while another link transitions to full power mode to ensure reliable reception of transmissions. This per-link independence resolves the contradiction by enabling the device to maintain reception capability on critical links while conserving power on non-critical links.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by applying different power states to different links based on their specific requirements. Links with high traffic or critical communications maintain full power mode for reliable reception, while links with lower priority or no activity remain in listen mode. This localized differentiation resolves the contradiction by ensuring reliability where needed while achieving power conservation where possible.
3Productivity
If non-AP MLDs transition to full power mode on all links, then network performance is maximized, but power consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses segmentation to divide the power management across individual links, allowing the system to achieve near-full network performance on active links while keeping power consumption low on inactive links. This granular approach resolves the contradiction by eliminating the need to consume full power on all links simultaneously, maintaining performance where required while reducing overall power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the power state parameter independently for each link based on traffic conditions and priority. Rather than using a single power level for all links, the system dynamically adjusts the power parameter on each link, transitioning to full power mode only when necessary. This parameter differentiation resolves the contradiction by optimizing the balance between performance and power consumption on a per-link basis.
4Adaptability or versatility
If power save mode is implemented per link independently, then power management flexibility improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using a standardized power management mechanism that operates consistently across all links. The same listen mode and full power mode states are available on each link, with uniform transition rules and control procedures. This universal approach resolves the contradiction by providing flexible per-link power management through a standardized framework rather than requiring complex custom solutions for each link.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
This disclosure describes systems, methods, and devices related to optimized multi-link listen mode. A device may generate an initial control frame (ICF) to send to one or more station devices (STAs). The device may include multi-link power save mode in the ICF. The device may cause to send the ICF to the one or more STAs.