Multi-Link Communication for Lower-Overhead Link Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication standards face challenges in efficiently managing multi-link operations, particularly in the context of the emerging IEEE 802.11be (EHT) standard, which requires efficient mechanisms for changing connected links and optimizing link usage to support high throughput and data rates.
Innovation Solution
A multi-link device (MLD) operates across multiple links, enabling operations such as transmitting request frames, receiving response frames, and changing links based on this information to reduce frame exchange overhead and enhance link efficiency and power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a multi-link device transmits information on other links through one link, then frame exchange overhead is reduced, but link switching complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple link information transmissions into a single frame exchange. Specifically, when a non-AP MLD performs link switching, it transmits information about other links (including link capability information) through the current link being used, thereby reducing the number of separate frame exchanges and overhead while managing complexity through structured information organization
2Use of energy by moving object
If link information is transmitted through current link, then power consumption is reduced, but information completeness may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the non-AP MLD transmit link capability information and other link information in advance during the link switching process. This allows the AP MLD to receive and process information about alternative links before actual switching occurs, ensuring information completeness while enabling power-efficient operation by using existing communication channels
3Productivity
If multi-link operation is implemented, then throughput is increased, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by designing the link information transmission mechanism to serve multiple functions simultaneously. The same frame structure is used to convey current link status, alternative link information, and capability exchanges, allowing a single communication mechanism to handle multiple aspects of multi-link management, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high throughput capabilities
Data Source
AI summary
According to various embodiments, a multi-link device operating in a plurality of links can transmit, via a first link, a request frame for changing the first link from among the plurality of links to a second link not included in the plurality of links. The multi-link device can receive a response frame via the first link on the basis of the request frame. The multi-link device can change the first link to the second link on the basis of the response frame.