Multi-Link Roaming Frame Signaling for Uninterrupted WLAN Handover
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Solution Overview
Problem
Uninterrupted roaming in multi-link device (MLD) scenarios has not been thoroughly investigated or discussed in wireless local area network (WLAN) communications, leading to potential link interruptions during transitions between BSSs, and the need for improved signaling and synchronization during station roaming.
Innovation Solution
A wireless communication method and device that enable seamless roaming by transmitting and receiving frames with specific fields indicating link addition or deletion, allowing for uninterrupted transitions between different AP MLDs within a logical AP MLD, using multi-link operation update request frames to manage link switching and maintain connectivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If uninterrupted roaming is introduced to improve mobility performance, then station mobility is improved, but link interruptions occur during transitions between BSSs in MLD scenarios
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the Non-AP MLD transmit a first frame before actually performing the roaming transition. This frame includes a first field that indicates the intended link addition or deletion operation, allowing the AP MLD to prepare and synchronize the transition in advance, thereby preventing link interruptions during the actual roaming event.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through the exchange of frames between Non-AP MLD and AP MLD. The first frame transmitted by Non-AP MLD contains information about the desired link operation, and the AP MLD responds with a second frame. This feedback mechanism ensures both sides are synchronized and aware of the transition status, maintaining link continuity during roaming.
2Reliability
If multi-link operation update request frames are used to manage link switching, then seamless roaming is achieved, but signaling complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using a standardized frame structure with a first field that can indicate both link addition and link deletion operations. This single frame type serves multiple purposes for managing link transitions, reducing the need for separate signaling messages and thereby limiting the increase in signaling complexity while achieving seamless roaming.
Data Source
AI summary
A wireless communication method includes: transmitting, by a Non-AP MLD, a first frame; where the first frame is used for adding or deleting a first-type link or a second-type link.