Multi-Link Wi‑Fi Control for Millimeter Wave AP-STA Communication
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
There is no technical solution for implementing millimeter wave communication between an access point (AP) and a station (STA) in wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) communication systems, particularly in scenarios where managed and controlled links are supported.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for multi-link device (MLD) communication that includes transmitting and receiving frames carrying indication information to support various operation modes, including millimeter wave links, managed and controlled links, and managing and controlling links, enabling millimeter wave communication between AP and STA.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If millimeter wave communication is implemented between AP and STA, then communication throughput is improved to multiple gigabits per second, but signal attenuation and blockage issues worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a managing and controlling link operating in lower frequency bands as an intermediary to manage multiple millimeter wave links. This mediator link coordinates beamforming, handles channel access, and manages resource allocation across multiple high-throughput millimeter wave connections, thereby improving overall system reliability while maintaining high throughput
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the communication system into multiple independent links including one managing and controlling link and multiple millimeter wave data links. Each link operates semi-independently with the managing link coordinating the data links, allowing the system to achieve gigabit throughput while mitigating individual link vulnerabilities through diversification
2Adaptability or versatility
If managed and controlled links are supported in Wi-Fi communication, then device complexity increases due to lack of technical solutions, but communication functionality is improved
Solution Approach 1:
The managing and controlling link performs multiple functions including beamforming coordination, channel access management, resource allocation, and synchronization across multiple millimeter wave links. This multi-functional approach consolidates control mechanisms into a single link, improving communication versatility while preventing exponential growth in system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic link management where the managing and controlling link can dynamically allocate resources, adjust beamforming parameters, and coordinate channel access across multiple millimeter wave links based on real-time conditions, enabling adaptable communication functionality without rigid complex structures
3Productivity
If multiple millimeter wave links are used for high throughput, then power consumption increases, but communication speed is improved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent activates and manages multiple millimeter wave links to achieve high throughput, but uses the managing and controlling link to dynamically control which data links are active based on traffic demands. This partial activation approach maintains gigabit communication speed when needed while reducing power consumption during lower traffic conditions by deactivating unnecessary links
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~8
AI summary
The present application discloses a multi-link-device communication method and apparatus, a device, a medium, and a program product, and belongs to the field of communication. The method is performed by an access point multi-link device (AP MLD), and comprises: sending a first frame carrying first indication information, the first indication information being used for indicating at least one of: whether the AP MLD supports an MLO type or mode based on a managing and controlling link and a managed and controlled link; whether the AP MLD supports a managed and controlled link; and whether the AP MLD supports a millimeter wave link and a corresponding operation mode. The method allows, when a managed and controlled link is supported, for using a millimeter wave link as a managed and controlled link, achieving millimeter wave communication between an access point and a station according to a supported operating mode.