Multi-Link WLAN Switching for High-Throughput Real-Time Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless LAN systems lack efficient methods for utilizing multiple links with different bands to enhance communication performance, particularly in scenarios requiring high data throughput and real-time transmission.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for managing communication operations using a multi-link system, involving link switch procedures, channel measurements, and negotiation protocols to transition between different operating links, ensuring efficient use of multiple frequency bands.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single link is used for communication, then the communication setup is simple, but the data throughput and transmission distance are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The communication system is segmented into multiple independent links (first link and second link) operating at different bands. Each link can be used for specific communication tasks, allowing the system to achieve higher data throughput by utilizing multiple links simultaneously rather than relying on a single link.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimension of operation by enabling devices to communicate simultaneously across multiple frequency bands (first band and second band). This multi-dimensional approach allows parallel data transmission through different links, significantly improving overall data throughput and transmission distance.
2Productivity
If link switching is implemented to use multiple links, then data throughput improves, but the complexity of managing link switches increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring multiple links with different bands before actual communication begins. The first link and second link are established in advance, and the device can quickly switch between them based on communication needs without performing complex real-time negotiations, thus reducing link switch management complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism for coordinating link switches between multiple devices. This intermediary protocol simplifies the management of link switching by providing a standardized approach for devices to negotiate and switch links, reducing the complexity that would otherwise arise from direct peer-to-peer coordination.
3Productivity
If multiple links with different bands are used, then transmission distance and data throughput improve, but the difficulty of coordinating communication operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the coordination functions for multiple links into a unified communication operation framework. By combining the management of first link and second link operations under a single coordination mechanism, the system achieves better transmission distance and data throughput while reducing the difficulty of coordinating communication operations across multiple bands.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are a method and apparatus for cooperative communication using a multi-link in a communication system. An operating method of a first device comprises the steps of: generating a first request frame including an information element indicating a link switch time point; transmitting, to a second device, the first request frame via a first link; and receiving, from the second device via the first link, a first response frame indicating that the information element included in the first request frame has been identified.