Power-Adaptive Multilink Operation Using Low-Power Idle Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication devices face significant power consumption issues when utilizing multiple links for data transmission, leading to reduced battery life, especially in battery-restricted devices like mobile phones and mobile access points.
Innovation Solution
A power adaptive multilink operation protocol that selectively uses a lower power-consuming link for link management and beacon synchronization during idle conditions, and dynamically adjusts links based on traffic parameters and power consumption characteristics to optimize power usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple links are used for data transmission, then data throughput is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic link selection and switching based on real-time power consumption characteristics and traffic conditions. The system dynamically adjusts which links are active and which are in power saving mode, transitioning between different operational states to optimize the balance between throughput and power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes operational parameters of the links, specifically transitioning between power saving mode and active mode based on traffic conditions. The system modifies link state parameters dynamically to achieve optimal performance-power consumption tradeoff.
2Reliability
If all links remain active for continuous operation, then availability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic wake-up mechanisms where links in power saving mode periodically check for incoming traffic or wake-up signals. This allows the system to maintain availability by quickly activating links when needed while keeping them in low-power state during idle periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback mechanisms to monitor traffic conditions and link status, dynamically adjusting link operational states based on real-time information. This feedback loop ensures links are activated only when necessary, balancing availability with power conservation.
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems and methods use a protocol for multilink operations. The systems and methods can use a circuit configured to provide frames across a connection comprised of one or more links. The circuit 1. is configured to use during an idle condition a lower power consuming link of the links for link management operations, 2. is configured to use during the lower power consuming link of the links for beacon synchronization operations, or 3. is configured to select the links in response to traffic parameters and a power consumption characteristic of the links.