Multi-link Hibernation Mode for WLAN Power Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
In multi-link wireless communication networks, devices face challenges in efficiently utilizing channel resources, conserving power, and enabling virtual stations due to the need to maintain multiple links simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a hibernation mode for multi-link wireless communication networks, where one or more processors control the operations of stations associated with different links, allowing for the management of link transitions and the optimization of power usage by putting unused radios into a hibernation mode.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If multiple links are used for communication, then data communication rate is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic link management where the MLD can transition links between active and hibernation states based on traffic requirements. The system dynamically activates multiple links for high-speed data transfer when needed, and transitions to single-link operation with hibernation mode for other links when power conservation is prioritized, thus resolving the contradiction between communication speed and power consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic wake-up mechanisms where hibernating links periodically check for incoming traffic and activate when data needs to be transmitted. This periodic activation allows the system to maintain the capability for multi-link communication while spending most time in lower-power states, balancing speed requirements with power consumption
2Productivity
If multiple links are maintained simultaneously, then channel resource utilization is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the full functionality of hibernating links, keeping only the essential capability to detect wake-up triggers and transition to active state. By removing unnecessary operational complexity from hibernating links while maintaining their resource allocation, the system achieves better channel utilization without proportionally increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal hibernation mechanism that can be applied to any link in the multi-link system. The same hibernation protocol and state transition logic are used across all links, providing a multi-functional solution that manages both active and hibernating links through a unified framework, thereby reducing overall system complexity
3Use of energy by moving object
If radios are put into hibernation mode, then power consumption is reduced, but channel resource availability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary actions by pre-configuring hibernating links with wake-up triggers and maintaining their association state. The system prepares hibernating links to quickly transition back to active state when traffic is anticipated, ensuring channel resources remain available without requiring continuous radio operation, thus reducing power consumption while preserving resource availability
Data Source
AI summary
Some aspects of this disclosure include apparatuses and methods for implementing a hibernation mode for multi-link wireless communication networks such as a wireless local area network (WLAN). For example, some aspects relate to a multi-link device (MLD) including a first station (STA) associated with a first link of a wireless network and configured to communicate with a second MLD over the first link. The MLD also includes a second STA associated with a second link of the wireless network. The second STA is in a hibernation mode. The MLD also includes one or more processors communicatively coupled to the first and second STAs and configured to control operations of the first and second STAs.