Multi-Link Probe Request Frame Segmentation for AP MLD Information Exchange

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing communication technologies face challenges in accurately determining the information required by non-Access Point Multi-Link Devices (non-AP MLDs) and efficiently exchanging this information with Access Point Multi-Link Devices (AP MLDs) in multi-link communication scenarios.

Innovation Solution

A multi-link communication probe request method and apparatus that allows non-AP MLDs to clearly indicate the information needed and enables AP MLDs to accurately provide this information by using specific multi-link elements and fields within probe request and response frames.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the non-AP MLD sends a probe request frame without specific indication fields, then the frame structure remains simple, but the AP MLD cannot accurately determine which link information the non-AP MLD requires

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccuracy of determining required informationVSAvoidcomplexity of probe request frame structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The probe request frame is segmented into multiple link information fields, each corresponding to a specific link. Each field contains a link identifier and a request type indicator, allowing the non-AP MLD to selectively request information for specific links rather than transmitting a monolithic information structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different link information fields have different characteristics based on the specific link they represent. Each field is customized with the appropriate link identifier and request type, allowing the non-AP MLD to indicate precisely which link information is needed without requiring a uniform structure for all links.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Reliability

If the non-AP MLD requests complete information for all links, then the AP MLD can provide comprehensive information, but the information exchange overhead increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompleteness of information providedVSAvoidinformation exchange overhead

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The non-AP MLD can request partial information by setting the request type indicator to indicate only specific link information fields are needed, rather than requesting complete information for all links. This allows the AP MLD to provide exactly the information required, reducing overhead while maintaining reliability for the requested parameters.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Solution Approach 2:

The request type indicator parameter in each link information field can be changed to specify different information requirements. By modifying this parameter, the non-AP MLD can dynamically adjust the scope of information requested, balancing completeness against overhead based on actual needs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If the probe request frame includes detailed link information fields for multiple links, then the non-AP MLD can specify precise information requirements, but the frame size and processing complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveability to specify information requirementsVSAvoidprocessing complexity of probe request frame

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The probe request frame is divided into multiple independent link information fields, each handling a specific link. This segmentation allows the non-AP MLD to specify requirements for individual links without creating a monolithic complex structure, making the frame more manageable and adaptable to different scenarios.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Each link information field uses a standardized structure with a link identifier and request type indicator, making the frame format universal across different links. This multi-functional design allows the same field structure to be reused for multiple links, reducing overall complexity compared to having separate custom structures for each link.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS12219636B2Multi-link communication probe request method and apparatus

Publication Date: 2025.02.04 NOKIA TECHNOLOGIES OY

AI summary

This application discloses a multi-link communication probe request method and apparatus. The method includes: a non-access point multi-link device (non-AP MLD) generates a probe request frame, and sends the probe request frame to an access point multi-link device (AP MLD), and the AP MLD receives the probe request frame, and generates a probe response frame and sends to the non-AP MLD. The probe request frame includes a first multi-link element (MLE) that is used to request link information of the AP MLD and that includes a first link information field. The first link information field includes a first field. The first field indicates that the non-AP MLD requests the AP MLD to feed back complete information or partial information of a first link. The first link information field corresponds to the first link.