WLAN Multi-Link AP Signaling for Multiple BSSID Management

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing technologies face challenges in applying the multiple BSSID technology to multi-link devices to provide functions of multiple virtual networks, as existing methods do not efficiently manage and communicate information about multiple associated access points in a wireless local area network.

Innovation Solution

A signaling information exchange method is introduced, utilizing MLD elements to carry information about multiple associated access points, including type information to facilitate appropriate AP selection and network management in multi-AP multi-link devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple BSSID technology is applied to multi-link devices to provide multiple virtual networks, then network flexibility and adaptability are improved, but device complexity and information management burden increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenetwork flexibilityVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the multi-AP MLD information into structured elements (MLD elements with subelements) that can be independently managed and transmitted. Each AP's information is organized in a separate element, allowing the system to handle multiple virtual networks through modular information structures rather than monolithic complex data handling.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a new dimensional approach by creating a hierarchical information structure with MLD elements containing subelements. This multi-level organization adds a structural dimension to information management, enabling efficient handling of multiple APs through a systematic framework rather than flat enumeration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Productivity

If information about multiple associated access points is communicated efficiently, then network management is improved, but signaling overhead increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenetwork management efficiencyVSAvoidsignaling overhead

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges information about multiple APs into a unified MLD information structure that is transmitted together in management frames. By combining what would otherwise be separate information transmissions into a single integrated element, the patent reduces the total signaling overhead while maintaining complete network management information.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The MLD element structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it identifies the multi-AP MLD, provides information about each associated AP, enables AP selection, and supports network management. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate signaling mechanisms for each function, reducing overall overhead.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS12495456B2Signaling information exchange method and communication apparatus in wireless local area network

Publication Date: 2025.12.09 HUAWEI TECH CO LTD

AI summary

A signaling information exchange method in a wireless local area network (WLAN), includes generating, by an access point (AP), a management frame, and sending, by the access point, the management frame. The AP is part of a first AP multi-link device (MLD). The management frame includes MLD information. The MLD information includes a first MLD element. The first MLD element includes a sub-element of the first MLD element that includes information of another AP in the first AP MLD.