Peer Power Save Mode for TDLS Wireless Networks
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In current WLAN environments, Non-AP STAs cannot employ Direct Link Setup (DLS) services due to legacy APs not supporting Quality of Service (QoS), and existing power save modes are not compatible with TDLS wireless networks, limiting power management and communication efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of Peer Power Save Mode (PPSM) allows Non-AP STAs to operate in power save mode while maintaining a TDLS link, enabling scheduled wake-ups and data transmission without changing the data reception path, by negotiating and agreeing on wake-up schedules and channels with peer STAs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If Non-AP STAs use legacy power save mode in infra-structured BSS, then power consumption is reduced, but direct link communication with peer STAs is not supported
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power save mode functionality into two distinct modes: legacy PSM for AP-centered communication and Peer PSM for direct link communication. This segmentation allows each mode to be optimized for its specific communication scenario, enabling Non-AP STAs to choose the appropriate mode based on whether they need AP communication or direct peer communication.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic mode switching capability where Non-AP STAs can transition between legacy PSM and Peer PSM based on communication requirements. The system dynamically adjusts the power save behavior and link maintenance strategy according to whether the STA needs to communicate via the AP or directly with peer STAs, making the power management system adaptable to different communication scenarios.
2Reliability
If Non-AP STAs maintain continuous connection for direct link communication, then communication availability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
Peer PSM implements periodic wake-up intervals where Non-AP STAs alternate between sleep and active states while maintaining TDLS links. Instead of continuous connection, STAs wake up at scheduled intervals to exchange data and then return to sleep mode, achieving both power savings and communication availability through periodic operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of power save mode specifically for peer-to-peer communication scenarios. Peer PSM introduces new parameters such as peer power save capability indicators, peer wake-up schedules, and direct link maintenance protocols that differ from legacy PSM parameters, allowing optimized power management tailored to direct link characteristics.
3Device complexity
If legacy PSM is used in TDLS network, then power management is simplified, but peer-to-peer power save functionality is not supported
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal power management framework that encompasses both legacy PSM and Peer PSM. The system can function in multiple modes depending on the communication scenario: legacy PSM when AP communication is needed, and Peer PSM when direct link communication is the priority. This multi-functionality allows the same infrastructure to support diverse power management needs without requiring separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces peer power save capability indicators and negotiation mechanisms as intermediaries between Non-AP STAs establishing TDLS links. These intermediaries allow STAs to exchange power save capability information, negotiate wake-up schedules, and coordinate peer power save operations, enabling sophisticated peer-to-peer power management without requiring complex centralized control.
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a protocol for a power save mode (PSM) in a direct link setup wireless network. In an aspect of the present invention, among first and second stations between which a direct link has been set up, the first station trying to enter the PSM transmits a request message, including schedule information necessary for communication with the second station, to the second station. The second station transmits a response message, including a status code indicating whether it accepts the schedule information or not, to the first station in response to the request message. If the status code indicates that the second station accepts the schedule information, the first station may transmit an MPDU whose power save bit is set to ‘1’ to the second station and then enter the PSM. However, if the status code indicates unacceptability, modified schedule information may be included in the response message.