Multi-Link Wi‑Fi Traffic Indication for Lower STA Power Use
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increased power consumption of multi-link devices due to simultaneous operation of multiple links in IEEE 802.11 next-generation wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) protocols is a challenge, as existing power-saving mechanisms are ineffective for station multi-link devices.
Innovation Solution
A communication method where a primary link in a multi-link device receives downlink traffic indication information, allowing secondary links to determine traffic status without individual indications, enabling them to enter a doze state when no data is transmitted, thereby reducing power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple links operate simultaneously in a multi-link device, then the throughput and data transmission rate are improved, but the power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the multi-link device into a first STA (operating on primary link) and multiple second STAs (operating on secondary links). The first STA receives downlink traffic indication information and uses it to control the power state of second STAs, allowing selective operation of individual links based on actual traffic needs rather than all links operating continuously
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic power state management where second STAs can transition between awake and doze states based on real-time traffic indication information received from the first STA. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to optimize power consumption by activating only the links that currently have downlink traffic, rather than maintaining all links in awake state
2Reliability
If each second STA receives downlink traffic indication information on its respective link, then the traffic status is accurately determined, but the power consumption increases due to continuous reception requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The first STA acts as an intermediary that receives downlink traffic indication information from the access point and relays this information to second STAs operating on secondary links. This allows second STAs to determine traffic status without directly receiving indications on their own links, enabling them to enter doze state while still maintaining accurate traffic awareness through the intermediary first STA
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of this application provide a communication method between multi-link devices and an apparatus, and relate to the field of communications technologies, to reduce power consumption of a station multi-link device. The method includes: a multi-link device includes a plurality of STAs, one STA operates on one of a plurality of links, and the STA determines a primary link in the plurality of links. A STA operating on the primary link in the multi-link device may receive information sent by the AP indicating whether the STA operating on the primary link has a downlink traffic, and/or information indicating whether a STA operating on a link other than the primary link has a downlink traffic. Therefore, the STA operating on the primary link may determine a link on which the STA having a downlink traffic operates in the multi-link device.