Flexible Multi-Link Packet Routing for Latency and Spectrum Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-link operation (MLO) systems face challenges in optimally assigning packets to links, leading to loss of control over spectrum distribution and potential congestion, especially when hardware-based link selection relies on instantaneous channel sensing.
Innovation Solution
A flexible MLO architecture that allows for dynamic selection between software-based and hardware-based link selection, where software-based link selection is optimized using accurate channel state information and operator biases, while hardware-based selection prioritizes low latency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If hardware-based link selection using instantaneous channel sensing is used, then low latency is achieved, but operator control over spectrum distribution is lost and congestion may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between hardware-based link selection (for low latency) and software-based link selection (for operator control) based on current operating conditions. The flexible MLO architecture allows the access point to adaptively choose the appropriate selection method, resolving the contradiction between speed and ease of operation by making the system itself dynamic rather than fixed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of link selection by switching between hardware-based instantaneous channel sensing and software-based channel state information processing. This parameter change allows the system to adjust between low latency mode and operator-controlled mode, resolving the contradiction through parameter variation.
2Ease of operation
If software-based link selection using accurate channel state information is used, then operator control over spectrum distribution is maintained, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts its processing approach based on operational needs, switching between fast hardware-based selection and thorough software-based selection. This dynamic behavior allows the system to maintain operator control when needed while minimizing processing time when speed is prioritized.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs partial channel sensing through hardware-based instantaneous channel assessment when low latency is critical, and excessive/detailed channel state information processing through software-based selection when operator control is needed. This partial/excessive action approach resolves the contradiction by applying the appropriate level of processing based on context.
3Productivity
If hardware-based link selection is used, then processing speed is improved, but link assignment optimality decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically chooses between hardware-based fast processing (for productivity) and software-based optimized processing (for reliability) based on current conditions. The flexible architecture allows the system to adapt its processing depth to match the importance of the task, resolving the contradiction between speed and optimality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the processing parameters by switching between instantaneous hardware-based channel sensing and detailed software-based channel state analysis. This parameter change allows the system to adjust the balance between processing speed and assignment optimality based on operational requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
Certain aspects of the present disclosure provide an architecture and method for multi-link operation (MLO) at an access point (AP). The method generally includes obtaining a packet from at least one buffer and selecting a processing path, from first and second processing paths, for a packet to be routed from the at least one buffer to at least one of a plurality of radio components for wireless transmission to at least one peer via one or more links, wherein: the first processing path is configured to bind the packet to one of the one or more links based on at least one code-implemented rule, and the second processing path is configured to bind the packet to one of the one or more links based on instantaneous channel sensing.