Multi-Link Frame Identification for Collocated AP MLDs
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The evolution of multi-link device technology has rendered the use of link identifiers inadequate for quickly identifying collocated access point multi-link devices, hindering effective link establishment in ultra-high reliability systems.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating identifier information of both collocated and non-collocated access point multi-link devices within communication frames, such as medium access control addresses and IDs, to facilitate rapid identification and management of links.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If only link identifier is used for identifying AP MLD, then the communication system maintains simplicity, but the identification accuracy and speed for collocated AP MLD deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The identification mechanism is segmented into two distinct identifier types: link identifier for basic link identification and AP MLD identifier for precise AP MLD identification. This segmentation allows the system to use both simple link-level identification and complex AP MLD-level identification without requiring the entire system to be overly complex, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimension of identification by adding AP MLD identifier (such as MLD MAC address) alongside the existing link identifier. This dimensional expansion transforms the identification system from a single-dimensional link identifier to a two-dimensional identification space, enabling precise differentiation of collocated AP MLDs while maintaining the original link identification functionality.
2Productivity
If link identifier is used for establishing links, then the establishment process is simple, but the speed of identifying collocated AP MLD deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The AP MLD identifier is incorporated into beacon frames and other communication frames in advance, allowing non-AP MLDs to pre-fetch and cache this identification information. When link establishment is needed, the non-AP MLD can immediately use the pre-available AP MLD identifier to quickly identify the target collocated AP MLD without requiring additional probing or time-consuming identification procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces communication frames (beacon frames, probe response frames, etc.) as intermediaries that carry both link identifier and AP MLD identifier simultaneously. These frames serve as a mediator that delivers both levels of identification information in a single transmission, enabling the receiving device to perform both link identification and AP MLD identification without multiple separate communication rounds, thus reducing time loss.
3Adaptability or versatility
If identifier information of collocated and non-collocated AP MLD is included in communication frames, then the identification capability is enhanced, but the frame size and processing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making the inclusion of AP MLD identifier optional and context-dependent. The identifier is included in communication frames only when necessary for identifying collocated AP MLDs, while maintaining the simpler identification mechanism for scenarios where it is not needed. This localized enhancement of identification capability avoids universally increasing frame complexity across all communication scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The identification mechanism is made dynamic by allowing the communication frame to adapt its content based on the specific scenario. The frame can include or exclude AP MLD identifier information depending on whether the current operation requires differentiation of collocated AP MLDs. This dynamic adaptability enables the system to maintain versatility for complex identification needs while avoiding unnecessary processing complexity in simpler scenarios.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-link communication method includes that a station (STA) sends a communication frame, and correspondingly, an AP receives the communication frame. The communication frame may include n multi-link elements, and each multi-link element corresponds to one collocated AP MLD. The multi-link element includes identifier information of a non-collocated AP MLD and identifier information of the collocated AP MLD, and n collocated AP MLDs are affiliated with one non-collocated AP MLD.