Method and apparatus for multi-link operations

#In multi-link communications, multi-link devices, e.g., access point (AP) multi-link devices (MLDs) or non-AP MLDs, e.g., STA multi-link devices (STA MLDs), can execute various multi-link operations, such as announcements of some features or operations for communication links between the multi-link devices via one or more communication links. As an example, a wireless AP multi-link device in a multi-link Basic Service Set (BSS) may wirelessly transmit a management frame (e.g., a beacon) on each link to transmit information of multiple links and update multi-link device parameters. However, when there are multiple links involved in the multi-link operations, there is a need to efficiently execute the multi-link operations.

#Embodiments of a method and an apparatus for multi-link operations are disclosed. The method involves at a multi-link device (MLD) that supports a first link, link1, and a second link, link2, announcing at least one of a capability, Basic Service Set (BSS) operating parameter, and operating mode of an AP affiliated with an AP MLD in a reported link, and at least one of a capability, Basic Service Set (BSS) operating parameter, and operating mode of an AP affiliated with an AP MLD in a reporting link via a management frame on the reporting link.

#In an embodiment, at least one of link1 and link2 is the reporting link.

#FIG. 1 depicts a multi-link communications system.

#FIG. 2 illustrates an example of a technique for operating links in the multi-link communications system depicted in FIG. 1.

#FIG. 3A depicts multi-link communication systems in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

#Throughout the description, similar reference numbers may be used to identify similar elements.

#It will be readily understood that the components of the embodiments as generally described herein and illustrated in the appended figures could be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. Thus, the following more detailed description of various embodiments, as represented in the figures, is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, but is merely representative of various embodiments. While the various aspects of the embodiments are presented in drawings, the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale unless specifically indicated.

#The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by this detailed description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.