Multi-Link WLAN Configuration for LTE Offload Interference Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies are unclear on how to configure multi-link WLAN connections in LTE-WLAN interworking scenarios, leading to inefficiencies and potential in-device interference due to lack of control over link establishment by the cellular network.
Innovation Solution
The cellular network is provided with methods to control the establishment and reporting of multi-link WLAN connections through the transmission of specific addresses to the wireless device, allowing for controlled link setup and offloading of traffic.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the wireless device autonomously establishes multi-link WLAN connections without cellular network control, then the device can quickly set up connections and utilize multi-link capabilities, but the cellular network loses control over link establishment leading to potential in-device interference and inefficient resource utilization
Solution Approach 1:
The base station performs preliminary configuration by providing the wireless device with a list of candidate WLAN identifiers (SSIDs/BSSIDs) and associated parameters before the device attempts to establish WLAN connections. This preliminary action enables the device to quickly identify and connect to appropriate WLAN networks while ensuring that the connections align with cellular network objectives and interference avoidance strategies.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the cellular network implements comprehensive control over multi-link WLAN connection establishment, then in-device interference can be minimized and resource utilization optimized, but the complexity of the configuration process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control mechanism is segmented into two independent parts: (1) the base station provides a configured list of candidate WLAN identifiers and parameters, and (2) the wireless device autonomously selects from this list and establishes connections based on its own criteria. This segmentation reduces configuration complexity by eliminating the need for complex real-time coordination protocols while maintaining network control over the available options.
Solution Approach 2:
The configured list of WLAN identifiers acts as an intermediary between the base station and the wireless device. Instead of direct complex control interactions, the base station communicates its intentions through this pre-configured list, which the device then uses for autonomous connection establishment. This intermediary simplifies the interaction model while preserving network control.
3Productivity
If multiple WLAN links are established simultaneously for traffic offloading, then throughput and performance are enhanced, but battery consumption increases due to maintaining multiple active connections
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the number and configuration of active WLAN links based on current network conditions, traffic requirements, and device state. The base station can update the configured list of WLAN identifiers and parameters in response to changing conditions, enabling the device to activate or deactivate specific links as needed. This dynamic approach allows the system to optimize throughput when conditions favor multi-link operation while reducing battery consumption when fewer links are sufficient.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4
AI summary
Embodiments described herein relate to methods and apparatuses for configuring a multi-link Wireless Local Area Network, WLAN, connection between a wireless device and a first WLAN termination node. A method in a base station comprises transmitting, to the wireless device, a multi-link configuration comprising one or more first addresses, wherein the one or more first addresses comprises one of: a multi-link device address associated with the first WLAN termination node; and a plurality of addresses each associated with a single link to the first WLAN termination node.