WLAN Multi-Link AP Signaling for Multiple BSSID Association
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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 effectively.
Innovation Solution
A signaling information exchange method is introduced, utilizing MLD elements to convey information about multiple APs within a multi-AP multi-link device, including type information to facilitate appropriate AP selection and network association.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple BSSID technology is applied to multi-link devices to provide multiple virtual networks, then network management flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need to manage multiple APs and their relationships
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the multi-AP multi-link device information into structured elements (MLD elements with subelements) that can be individually managed and transmitted. Each AP's information is organized in a separate element with clear identifiers, allowing stations to process and manage each AP independently while the system manages them collectively as a multi-link device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimensional structure for organizing AP information by creating a hierarchical element system where MLD elements contain subelements about individual APs. This adds an organizational dimension to the information structure, transforming flat AP lists into nested, categorized elements that reveal relationships between APs without increasing operational complexity.
2Productivity
If stations need to determine the type and relationship of APs within multi-AP multi-link devices, then network association efficiency is improved, but signaling information complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by including MLD elements with AP relationship information in advance during the beacon and probe response phases. Stations receive and can process AP type and relationship information before actual association decisions are made, enabling more efficient and informed association choices without requiring complex real-time analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces MLD elements as an intermediary structure that mediates between the multi-AP multi-link device and stations. These elements act as a standardized information interface, translating complex internal AP relationships into a structured format that stations can easily interpret, thereby simplifying the signaling process while improving association efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of this application provide a communication method applied to a multi-link device in a wireless local area network WLAN and a related apparatus. The method includes: A reporting AP sends a management frame to a station. The reporting AP belongs to a first AP MLD, and belongs to a multiple BSSID set. The management frame includes MLD information. The MLD information carries, by using different types of MLD elements and a multiple BSSID element, for example, information about another AP in the MLD to which the AP belongs, information about the multiple BSSID set to which the AP belongs, and information about an AP in a multiple BSSID set including the another AP in the MLD to which the AP belongs. The station obtains information about the reporting AP and other information about a reported AP based on the management frame.