Multi-Link Wireless Handover for Low-Latency Data Continuity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication networks face challenges in ensuring data continuity, low latency, and reducing message exchanges during transitions between Access Points (APs, such as those encountered in IEEE 802.11 and WCDMA systems, leading to connectivity issues and service interruptions.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a multi-link communication system that establishes at least two links between a device and multiple nodes in a wireless network, allowing seamless handovers and data communication across these links, with a controller managing the connection and data distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a station transitions from one BSS to another BSS, then connectivity is restored with a new AP, but data continuity and latency are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by establishing a multi-link connection before the station actually needs to transition between BSSs. The system pre-establishes multiple links (e.g., first link to first AP and second link to second AP) so that when transition is needed, data can continue flowing without interruption. The controller proactively sets up these alternative paths in advance, eliminating the need for complete re-association during transitions.
2Reliability
If complete re-association is performed when transitioning to a new AP, then connectivity is established, but large delays occur due to extensive message exchanges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the connection establishment process into multiple parallel links managed by a controller. Instead of performing complete re-association procedures sequentially for each AP transition, the system divides the connection into separate first link and second link pathways. Each link can be established independently and simultaneously, reducing the total time required for connection reconfiguration during BSS transitions.
3Reliability
If multiple links are established between device and nodes, then reliability and data continuity are improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a controller as an intermediary component that manages the complexity of multi-link connections. The controller receives connection requests from the station, determines optimal paths, establishes multiple links (first link to first AP, second link to second AP), and coordinates data flow. This intermediary abstracts the complexity from the station, allowing it to maintain simple client functionality while benefiting from reliable multi-link connectivity.
4Reliability
If soft handovers are implemented to maintain continuous connection, then service interruptions are reduced, but message exchange requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-establishing multiple links before transitions occur. The controller proactively creates the first link to the first AP and second link to the second AP in advance, so that when the station needs to transition, data can immediately continue flowing through the pre-configured paths without requiring extensive real-time message exchanges to establish connectivity.
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a device configured to be connected to a first node and a second node. The first and second nodes are located in different entities in a wireless network, a controller configured to cause initiation and establishment of a multi-link connection. The multi-link has at least two links connecting the device with the first and/or the second node. Each link is configured to communicate with the first node and/or the second node. The first node is configured to transmit a request for establishing the connection to the second node. The second node is configured to cause and transmit a confirmation for establishing the connection to the first node and/or the device at reception of the request. The first node and second nodes, at establishment of the connection, are configured to function as a node entity associated with the device and to cause communication with the device over the connection.