A communication method and apparatus

Abstract

This application provides a communication method and apparatus, relating to the field of communication technology. In this communication method, the beacon period includes N synchronization periods, where N is an integer greater than 4. A first communication device can transmit control frames during a time period within the first synchronization period of the N synchronization periods. Because the beacon period is divided more finely, the time interval between control frame transmissions by the first communication device is shorter, which helps reduce the latency of control frame transmission. Furthermore, the first communication device has more opportunities to transmit control frames within a beacon period, which helps improve the success rate of control frame transmission.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a communication method and apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] A power line carrier (PLC) system includes a central coordinator (CCO) and multiple stations (STAs), which can be connected via a bus. Currently, the protocol divides the beacon period into four time slots, one of which is a time division multiple access (TMDA) slot, on which the CCO can send control frames to the stations.

[0003] If the central coordinator does not send a control frame in the current TMDA time slot, it needs to wait for the next TMDA time slot in the beacon period. This results in the minimum delay for the central coordinator to send a control frame being one beacon period, meaning the delay for sending a control frame is relatively large. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a communication method and apparatus for reducing the latency of sending control frames.

[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a communication method, which can be executed by a first communication device, such as a central coordinator or proxy coordinator (PCO) in a PLC system. The method includes: determining that a first control frame to be sent exists within a first synchronization period, wherein the first synchronization period is one of N synchronization periods included in a beacon period, and N is an integer greater than 4; and sending the first control frame to at least one second communication device during a first time period within the first synchronization period, wherein the first time period is used to send the control frame.

[0006] In this embodiment, the beacon period may include N synchronization periods, i.e., five or more synchronization periods. Compared with the prior art, this embodiment represents a more refined division of the beacon period. The first communication device can send control frames within a time period of a synchronization period. Even if the first communication device cannot send control frames in a synchronization period, it can send control frames in the next synchronization period, thus relatively reducing the latency of sending control frames. Furthermore, control frames can be sent in each synchronization period of the beacon period, and one beacon period includes N opportunities to send control frames. Compared with the prior art, one beacon period includes more opportunities to send control frames, thus improving the success rate of sending control frames.

[0007] In one possible implementation, the first time period is the first time period within the first synchronization cycle. This allows control frames to be sent preferentially during the first time period of the first synchronization cycle, which helps reduce transmission delay.

[0008] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: determining that the bus is idle during a first time period in the first synchronization cycle, the bus being used to enable communication between the first communication device and the at least one second communication device; or, determining that the bus is not idle during a first time period in the second synchronization cycle, the second synchronization cycle and the first synchronization cycle being two adjacent synchronization cycles in the beacon cycle, and the second synchronization cycle being a synchronization cycle preceding the first synchronization cycle.

[0009] In the above embodiments, the first communication device can determine that the bus is idle during a first time period and send the first control frame during that time period. This avoids the control frame competing for resources with other data, ensuring that the first control frame can be sent smoothly. Alternatively, if the first communication device is not idle during the first time period of the previous synchronization cycle (i.e., the second synchronization cycle), it can send the first control frame during the first time period of the first synchronization cycle, ensuring that the control frame can be sent in a timely manner. Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the delay in sending the first control frame is only the duration of one synchronization cycle, which still reduces the delay in sending control frames compared to the prior art.

[0010] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: receiving a first data frame from one of the at least one second communication devices during a second time period in the first synchronization period, wherein the second time period in the first synchronization period is a time period following the first time period in the first synchronization period.

[0011] In the above embodiments, the first communication device can also transmit the first data frame during a second time period within the first synchronization period, providing a method for transmitting data frames and control frames within a synchronization period. Furthermore, in the above embodiments, the first communication device can prioritize transmitting control frames within the first synchronization period, which helps reduce the latency of transmitting control frames.

[0012] In one possible implementation, the frame length of the first data frame is positively correlated with the duration of the first synchronization period.

[0013] In the above implementation, if the duration of the first synchronization period is shorter, the frame length of the first data frame can be shorter. This avoids the situation where the frame length of the first data frame is too long, which would result in a longer time required to send the first data frame, and helps to reduce the time required to send the first data frame.

[0014] In one possible implementation, the duration of the first synchronization period is greater than the detection duration, and the duration of the first synchronization period is less than the maximum service latency. The detection duration refers to the time required for the first communication device to detect the frame header of the data frame, and the maximum service latency refers to a preset maximum latency for sending control frames. The maximum service latency, for example, is a maximum latency set according to service requirements.

[0015] In the above implementation, since the duration of the first synchronization period is greater than the detection delay, the first communication device has sufficient time to detect the frame header within the first synchronization period. Furthermore, since the duration of the first synchronization period is always less than the maximum service delay, even if the first control frame is sent after a synchronization period, the delay of the first control frame will also be less than the maximum service delay, which also meets the service requirements.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: sending indication information to the at least one second communication device, the indication information being used to indicate the start time of the beacon period; and starting a first timer, the timing period of the first timer being the first synchronization period.

[0017] In the above implementation, there is no need to change the beacon period through the protocol, which reduces the application cost of the solution. Furthermore, the first communication device uses a timer to count the first synchronization period, so the duration of the first synchronization period can be flexibly set.

[0018] In one possible implementation, the first communication device is a central coordinator and the second communication device is a station; or, the first communication device is a central coordinator and the second communication device is a proxy coordinator; or, the first communication device is a proxy coordinator and the second communication device is a station; or, the first communication device is a station and the second communication device is a central coordinator; or, the first communication device is a station and the second communication device is a proxy coordinator; or, the first communication device is a proxy coordinator and the second communication device is a central coordinator.

[0019] In the above embodiments, various possibilities for the first communication device and the second communication device are provided.

[0020] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a communication method, which can be executed by a second communication device, such as a central coordinator, proxy coordinator (PCO), or station in a PLC system. The method includes: receiving indication information from a first communication device, the indication information indicating the start time of a beacon period, the beacon period including N synchronization periods, where N is an integer greater than 4; and receiving a first control frame from the first communication device during a first time period within the first synchronization period, wherein the first synchronization period is one of the N synchronization periods, the first time period being used to send the control frame, and the control frame being used to schedule data frames of the second communication device.

[0021] In one possible implementation, the first time period is the first time period in the first synchronization cycle.

[0022] In one possible implementation, the method includes: determining that a first data frame to be sent exists within a first synchronization period; and sending the first data frame to the first communication device during a second time period within the first synchronization period, wherein the second time period within the first synchronization period is a time period following the first time period within the first synchronization period.

[0023] In one possible implementation, the frame length of the first data frame is positively correlated with the duration of the first synchronization period.

[0024] In one possible implementation, the duration of the first synchronization period is greater than the detection duration, and the duration of the first synchronization period is less than the maximum service delay. The detection duration refers to the time required for the first communication device to detect the frame header of the data frame, and the maximum service delay refers to the maximum delay of a preset transmission control frame.

[0025] In one possible implementation, the method includes: starting a second timer, the timing period of which is the first synchronization period.

[0026] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a communication method, which can be executed by a first communication device or a second communication device. The implementation of the first and second communication devices can refer to the content discussed above. The method includes: dividing a beacon period into N synchronization periods, wherein the first synchronization period among the N synchronization periods includes a first time period and at least one second time period, the first time period is used to send control frames, and the second time period is used to send data frames, where N is an integer greater than 4.

[0027] In this application embodiment, a flexible method for dividing the beacon period is provided. Since the beacon period is divided into at least five synchronization periods, and the first time period in each synchronization period is used to send control frames, compared with the prior art, this application embodiment makes a more refined division of the beacon period, which makes it more likely to send control frames within a synchronization period. Since the duration of a synchronization period is less than the duration of a beacon period, it is beneficial to reduce the latency of sending control frames and improve the success rate of sending control frames.

[0028] In one possible implementation, the first time period of the first synchronization cycle precedes the second time period of the first synchronization cycle.

[0029] In one possible implementation, the beacon period is divided into N synchronization periods, including: starting a timer, the timing period of which is the duration of one of the N synchronization periods.

[0030] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide a communication device, which may be the first communication device described in the first aspect above, or a system (e.g., a chip system) configured in the first communication device, or a larger device including the first communication device. The communication device includes corresponding means or modules for performing the first aspect or any possible implementation described above. For example, the communication device includes a processing module (sometimes also called a processing unit) and a transceiver module (sometimes also called a transceiver unit).

[0031] For example, a processing module is configured to determine that a first control frame to be sent exists within a first synchronization period, wherein the first synchronization period is one of N synchronization periods included in the beacon period, and N is an integer greater than 4; a transceiver module is configured to send the first control frame to at least one second communication device during a first time period within the first synchronization period, wherein the first time period is used to send the control frame.

[0032] In one alternative embodiment, the communication device includes a storage unit, and the processing unit is coupled to the storage unit and executes programs or instructions in the storage unit to enable the communication device to perform the functions of the first communication device described above.

[0033] Fifthly, embodiments of this application provide a communication device, which may be the second communication device described in the second aspect above, or a system (e.g., a chip system) configured in the second communication device, or a larger device including the second communication device. The communication device includes corresponding means or modules for performing the second aspect or any possible implementation described above. For example, the communication device includes a processing module (sometimes also called a processing unit) and a transceiver module (sometimes also called a transceiver unit).

[0034] For example, the transceiver module is configured to receive indication information from the first communication device under the control of the processing module. The indication information is used to indicate the start time of a beacon period, which includes N synchronization periods, where N is an integer greater than 4. The transceiver module is also configured to receive a first control frame from the first communication device during a first time period in the first synchronization period under the control of the processing module. The first synchronization period is one of the N synchronization periods, and the first time period is used to send the control frame, which is used to schedule data frames from the second communication device.

[0035] In one alternative embodiment, the communication device includes a storage unit, and the processing unit is coupled to the storage unit and executes programs or instructions in the storage unit to enable the communication device to perform the functions of the second communication device described above.

[0036] Sixthly, embodiments of this application provide a communication device that can be used to perform corresponding means or modules of the third aspect or any possible implementation described above. For example, the communication device includes a processing module (sometimes also called a processing unit). Optionally, the communication device further includes a transceiver module (sometimes also called a transceiver unit).

[0037] For example, a processing module is used to divide the beacon period into N synchronization periods, wherein the first synchronization period of the N synchronization periods includes a first time period and at least one second time period, the first time period is used to send control frames, the second time period is used to send data frames, and N is an integer greater than 4.

[0038] In a seventh aspect, embodiments of this application provide a communication device, including: a processor and a communication interface, wherein the communication interface is used to receive signals from other devices outside the communication device and transmit them to the processor, or to send signals from the processor to other devices outside the communication device, wherein the processor executes code instructions through logic circuits to implement the method as described in any one of the first, second, or third aspects.

[0039] Optionally, the communication device may also include other components, such as antennas, input / output modules, interfaces, etc. These components may be hardware, software, or a combination of both.

[0040] Eighthly, embodiments of this application provide a chip system comprising a processor and an interface. The processor is configured to call and execute instructions from the interface, and when the processor executes the instructions, it implements the method described in any one of the first, second, or third aspects above.

[0041] Ninth aspect, a computer-readable storage medium is provided for storing a computer program or instructions that, when executed, implement the method of any one of the first, second, or third aspects described above.

[0042] In a tenth aspect, a computer program product comprising instructions is provided that, when run on a computer, implements the method described in any one of the first, second, or third aspects above.

[0043] Regarding the beneficial effects of aspects two through ten, please refer to the beneficial effects discussed in aspect one, which will not be listed here again. Attached Figure Description

[0044] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a beacon cycle structure;

[0045] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a scenario provided for an embodiment of this application;

[0046] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a scenario applicable to an embodiment of this application;

[0047] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating another scenario to which the embodiments of this application apply;

[0048] Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0049] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a beacon cycle provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 7 A voltage waveform diagram of a first communication device and a second communication device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0051] Figure 8 A flowchart illustrating yet another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0052] Figures 9 to 11 The diagram shows the structure of three communication devices provided in the embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0053] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the embodiments of this application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0054] The following is a description of the terms used in the embodiments of this application.

[0055] 1. A terminal device is a device with wireless transceiver capabilities. It can be a fixed device, mobile device, handheld device, wearable device, vehicle-mounted device, or a wireless device (e.g., a communication module or chip system) built into the aforementioned devices. The terminal device is used to connect people, objects, and machines, and can be widely used in various scenarios, including but not limited to the following: cellular communication, device-to-device (D2D) communication, vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, machine-to-machine / machine-type communication (M2M / MTC) communication, Internet of Things (IoT), virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), industrial control, self-driving, remote medical care, smart grid, smart furniture, smart office, smart wearables, smart transportation, smart city, drones, robots, and other similar scenarios. The terminal equipment may sometimes be referred to as user equipment (UE), terminal, access station, UE station, remote station, wireless communication equipment, or user device, etc.

[0056] In this application embodiment, the number of nouns, unless otherwise specified, refers to "singular nouns or plural nouns," that is, "one or more." "At least one" means one or more, and "more than one" means two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can mean: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, or B exists alone, where A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the related objects before and after are in an "or" relationship. For example, A / B means: A or B. "At least one of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one of a, b, or c means: a, b, c, a and b, a and c, b and c, or a and b and c, where a, b, and c can be single or multiple.

[0057] Please refer to Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a beacon cycle structure. Additionally, Figure 1 The middle part uses two beacon cycles (specifically, as shown in the image). Figure 1 Examples are given for beacon cycle 1 and beacon cycle 2.

[0058] like Figure 1 As shown, the beacon period includes beacon time slots (such as...) Figure 1 The time slot S1), TDMA time slot (specifically as follows) Figure 1 Medium time slot S2), contention time slot (specifically as follows) Figure 1 The time slot S3) and the listening time slot (specifically as follows) Figure 1 The contention slot (S4) is also known as the carrier sense multiple access (CSMA) slot. The listening slot is also known as the binding carrier multiple access slot.

[0059] The following example illustrates the communication between the central coordinator and the stations. Figure 1 The function of each time slot in the beacon cycle shown will be introduced.

[0060] For example, beacon slots are used by the central coordinator or stations to send beacon frames, which are used to discover stations or the central coordinator. For instance, the central coordinator and multiple stations discover each other and form a network via beacon frames. TDMA slots are used by the central coordinator to send control frames. Control frames are used to schedule data frames from some or all of the multiple stations. Contention slots are used by multiple stations to compete to send data frames. Listen slots are used by the central coordinator and stations to listen for and receive data frames or control frames.

[0061] As mentioned above, the central coordinator transmits control frames in the TDMA time slot. If the central coordinator does not transmit a control frame in the current TDMA time slot, it must wait until the next beacon period's TDMA time slot to transmit a control frame. Therefore, the delay of the control frame is at least one beacon period, resulting in a relatively large delay. For example, please refer to... Figure 1 If the central coordinator does not send a control frame in time slot S2 of beacon period 1, it needs to send a control frame in time slot S2 of beacon period 2.

[0062] In addition, some services may limit the maximum latency for sending control frames. If control frames are sent in the current manner, the actual latency for sending control frames may exceed the maximum latency for the service, thus failing to meet the service requirements.

[0063] In view of this, embodiments of this application provide a communication method in which the beacon period can be divided into five or more synchronization periods, which is equivalent to a more refined division of the beacon period. A first communication device (e.g., CCO) can send control frames during a certain time period of the synchronization period. Even if the first communication device cannot send a control frame during a certain synchronization period, it can still send a control frame during the next synchronization period. That is, the delay in sending the control frame is one synchronization period, thereby relatively reducing the delay in sending the control frame. Furthermore, reducing the delay in sending the control frame is beneficial for meeting the needs of certain services with high latency requirements.

[0064] The following describes the application scenarios applicable to the communication methods in the embodiments of this application.

[0065] Please refer to Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a scenario provided in the embodiments of this application, or it can be understood as a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system.

[0066] like Figure 2 As shown, the scenario includes a first communication device 210 and at least one second communication device 220. Figure 2 The example uses two second communication devices 220, but the actual number of second communication devices 220 is not limited. Each first communication device 210 can communicate with at least one second communication device 220. For example, the first communication device 210 and at least one second communication device 220 can communicate via a bus. The bus is, for example, a half-duplex bus, specifically, a power line. Figure 2 The image is illustrated with thick lines.

[0067] The first communication device 210 is used to schedule (or control) at least one second communication device 220. Under the control of the first communication device 210, the at least one second communication device 220 sends data frames to the first communication device 210.

[0068] The first communication device 210 can be implemented through a terminal device or a server. At least one second communication device 220 can be implemented through a terminal device.

[0069] For example, the first communication device 210 is a central coordinator, and the second communication device 220 is a station. Alternatively, the first communication device 210 is a proxy coordinator, and the second communication device 220 is a station. Alternatively, the first communication device 210 is a central coordinator, and the second communication device 220 is a proxy coordinator. Alternatively, the first communication device 210 is a station, and the second communication device 220 is a central coordinator. Alternatively, the first communication device 210 is a station, and the second communication device 220 is a proxy coordinator. Alternatively, the first communication device 210 is a proxy coordinator, and the second communication device 220 is a central coordinator.

[0070] For example, the central coordinator or agent coordinator can be a data acquisition unit, and the site can be an inverter. Alternatively, the central coordinator or agent coordinator can be an inverter, and the site can be a photovoltaic optimizer. Alternatively, the central coordinator can be a data acquisition unit, the agent coordinator can be an inverter, and the site can be a photovoltaic optimizer. Alternatively, the central coordinator or agent coordinator can be a data acquisition unit, and the site can be an electricity meter.

[0071] Please refer to Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a scenario applicable to an embodiment of this application. Alternatively, Figure 3 It can also be understood as a schematic diagram of a PLC system architecture.

[0072] like Figure 3 As shown, the scenario includes a central coordinator 310 and multiple stations 320. The central coordinator 310 and any one of the multiple stations 320 communicate via a bus. The implementation of the central coordinator 310, the multiple stations 320, and the bus can be referred to the content discussed above.

[0073] The central coordinator 310 can send control frames to multiple sites 320. These control frames are used to schedule data across the sites 320; for example, they may indicate the maximum power configured for each site 320. Each site 320 can send its own data frames to the central coordinator 310. For example, if a site 320 is an inverter, the data frames may indicate the actual operating power of that site 320.

[0074] In one possible implementation, Figure 2 The first communication device 210 in the middle is, for example, Figure 3 The central coordinator 310, and Figure 2 The second communication device 220 in the middle is, for example, Figure 3 Site 320. Or, Figure 2The first communication device 210 in the middle is, for example, Figure 3 Site 320, and Figure 2 The second communication device 220 in the middle is, for example, Figure 3 The central coordinator 310 in the system.

[0075] Please refer to Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating another scenario applicable to the embodiments of this application. Alternatively, Figure 4 This can also be understood as a schematic diagram of another PLC system architecture.

[0076] like Figure 4 As shown, the scenario includes a central coordinator 410, a proxy coordinator 420, and multiple stations 430. The central coordinator 410 can communicate with the multiple stations 430 through the proxy coordinator 420. The central coordinator 410 and the proxy coordinator 420 can be connected via a bus, and the proxy coordinator 420 and the multiple stations 430 can also be connected via a bus. The implementation of the central coordinator 410, the stations 430, and the bus can be referred to the preceding discussion.

[0077] In one possible implementation, Figure 2 The first communication device 210 in the middle is, for example, Figure 4 The central coordinator 410 and the second communication device 220 are, for example, Figure 4 The agent coordinator 420 in the middle. Or, Figure 2 The first communication device 210 in the middle is, for example, Figure 4 The agent coordinator 420 in the middle, and Figure 2 The second communication device 220 in the middle is, for example, Figure 4 Site 430. Or, Figure 2 The first communication device 210 in the middle is, for example, Figure 4 The agent coordinator 420 and the second communication device 220 are, for example, Figure 4 The central coordinator 410. Or, Figure 2 The first communication device 210 in the middle is, for example, Figure 4 Site 430 in the middle, and Figure 2 The second communication device 220 in the middle is, for example, Figure 4 The agent coordinator 420 in the middle.

[0078] The method provided in the embodiments of this application is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings corresponding to the various embodiments of this application, all steps indicated by dashed lines are optional steps. The first communication device involved in the various embodiments of this application is, for example, Figure 2 The first communication device 210 and the related second communication device are, for example, Figure 2The second communication device 220 in the middle. Alternatively, the first communication device involved in the various embodiments of this application is, for example, a Figure 3 The central coordinator 310 and the second communication device are, for example, Figure 3 Site 320 in the middle. Or, the first communication device involved in the various embodiments of this application is, for example, site 320. Figure 3 The site 320 and the second communication device are, for example, Figure 3 The central coordinator 310. Alternatively, the first communication device involved in the various embodiments of this application is, for example, a central coordinator 310. Figure 4 The central coordinator 410 and the second communication device are, for example, Figure 4 The agent coordinator 420 in the middle. Alternatively, the first communication device involved in the various embodiments of this application is, for example, the agent coordinator 420 in the middle. Figure 4 The agent coordinator 420 in the middle, and the second communication device, for example, are Figure 4 The central coordinator 410. Alternatively, the first communication device involved in the various embodiments of this application is, for example, a central coordinator 410. Figure 4 The central coordinator 410 and the second communication device are, for example, Figure 4 Site 430 in the middle. Or, the first communication device involved in the various embodiments of this application is, for example, Figure 4 The site 430 in the middle, and the second communication device, for example, are Figure 4 The central coordinator 410.

[0079] Please refer to Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 5 The example uses one second communication device, but the actual number of second communication devices is not limited.

[0080] S501, the first communication device sends instruction information. Correspondingly, one or more second communication devices receive the instruction information from the first communication device. Figure 5 The illustrated embodiment uses a second communication device receiving indication information as an example. This indication information is used to indicate the start time of the beacon cycle. The start time can also be called the initial time, or the start of timing, etc.

[0081] For example, the first communication device may send the instruction information via broadcast. Alternatively, the first communication device may send the instruction information to the second communication device via unicast or multicast.

[0082] Optionally, the indication information can be carried in a beacon frame. The first communication device broadcasts the beacon frame, and the second communication device receives the beacon frame, which is equivalent to receiving the indication information.

[0083] In this embodiment, the first and second communication devices are synchronized. The first communication device notifies the second communication device of the start time of the beacon period, thus enabling the first and second communication devices to synchronize their beacon periods.

[0084] The first and second communication devices can achieve time synchronization by synchronizing their network timebase (NTB). Alternatively, the first and second communication devices can synchronize their time via a protocol.

[0085] The duration of the beacon period in this embodiment can be specified by the protocol, for example, 200 milliseconds (ms). The beacon period includes N synchronization periods, where N is an integer greater than 4, for example, 100. Any two synchronization periods among the N synchronization periods have the same duration. A synchronization period can be understood as a sub-period of the beacon period; it can also be called a time-domain resource unit or a time unit, etc.

[0086] Please refer to Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a beacon cycle structure provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 6 As shown, the beacon cycle includes 6 synchronization cycles (specifically as follows). Figure 6 (Tf-1, Tf-2, Tf-3, Tf-4, Tf-5, and Tf-6). Figure 6 The synchronization period is represented in the form of Tf-n, where n is a positive integer. There are multiple ways to represent the actual synchronization period, and this application does not specifically limit this.

[0087] The duration of the synchronization period can be agreed upon by the protocol or determined by the first communication device. The method by which the first communication device determines the duration of the synchronization period is described below.

[0088] For example, the first communication device determines the duration of the synchronization period based on the maximum service delay and / or the detection duration. The maximum service delay refers to the preset maximum delay for transmitting control frames. For instance, the value of the maximum service delay can be related to the type of service; for example, the maximum service delay can be set according to service requirements. Different types of services may have different maximum service delays. The detection duration refers to the time required for the first communication device to detect the frame header of a frame (such as a data frame).

[0089] For example, the first communication device determines the duration of the synchronization period as a duration shorter than the maximum service latency. Alternatively, the first communication device determines the duration of the synchronization period as a duration longer than the detection latency; for example, the first communication device determines the duration of the synchronization period as M * the detection latency, where M is an integer greater than 1, and M is, for example, 4. Alternatively, the first communication device determines the duration of the synchronization period as a duration shorter than the maximum service latency and longer than the detection latency.

[0090] For example, if the maximum service latency is 12 milliseconds (ms) and the detection duration is 500 microseconds (μs), the first communication device can determine the duration of the synchronization period to be 2 ms.

[0091] When the first communication device determines the duration of the synchronization period on its own, it can notify the second communication device of the duration of the synchronization period. Optionally, the duration of the synchronization period can be carried in a beacon frame. When the first communication device sends a beacon frame to the second communication device, it is equivalent to the second communication device obtaining the duration of the synchronization period.

[0092] Optionally, the first communication device can start a first timer, and the second communication device can start a second timer. The timing periods of the first and second timers are synchronization periods, thus enabling both the first and second communication devices to synchronize with the synchronization period. The first and second timers can be, for example, hardware timers or software timers.

[0093] For example, please refer to Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the voltage waveforms of a first communication device and a second communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 7 Figure a shows a schematic diagram of the voltage waveform of the first communication device. Figure 7 Figure b shows a schematic diagram of the voltage waveform of the second communication device. The voltage waveform of the first communication device corresponds to the synchronous period, and the voltage waveform of the second device also corresponds to the synchronous period. Figure 7 It can be seen that the synchronization period of the first communication device and the synchronization period of the second communication device can be kept synchronized.

[0094] S502, The first communication device determines that the bus is idle.

[0095] The bus is used to enable communication between the first communication device and the second communication device. In order for the first communication device to successfully send control frames, the first communication device can determine whether the bus is idle.

[0096] For example, at least one second communication device and the first communication device both transmit frames (control frames or data frames) via a bus, and both data frames and control frames may include a preamble. If the first communication device detects (or receives) the preamble, the first communication device determines that the bus is not idle. If the first communication device does not detect (or receive) the preamble, the first communication device determines that the bus is idle.

[0097] If the bus is not idle, it waits for the next synchronization cycle to send a control frame. If the bus is idle, S503 can be executed, that is, the first communication device determines that there is a first control frame to be sent within the first synchronization cycle. The control frame, also known as a fast control frame or fast command frame, is used to schedule (or control) the data frames of the second communication device. The first synchronization cycle is any one of the N synchronization cycles included in the beacon cycle.

[0098] The first communication device can determine whether a first control frame to be sent exists within the first synchronization period. For example, the first communication device can determine whether a first control frame to be sent exists at the beginning of the first synchronization period. If the first communication device does not have a first control frame to be sent within the first synchronization period, then the first communication device does not need to send a control frame. If the first communication device has a first control frame to be sent within the first synchronization period, then the first communication device can execute S504, that is, send the first control frame to the second communication device during a first time period within the first synchronization period. Accordingly, the second communication device receives the first control frame from the first communication device.

[0099] For example, the first communication device may send the first control frame to the second communication device in the form of unicast or multicast.

[0100] The first time period is one of the at least one time periods included in the first synchronization cycle. Each time period can be denoted by Ts. The duration of any two time periods within the at least one time period can be the same. Alternatively, the duration of any two time periods within the at least one time period can be different. Alternatively, the duration of the first time period within the at least one time period can be different from the duration of other time periods, but the duration of any two time periods within the other time periods (excluding the first time period) can be the same.

[0101] Continue to refer to Figure 6 Each synchronization cycle in the beacon cycle comprises four time periods; for example, Tf-1 includes four time periods: Ts-1, Ts-2, Ts-3, and Ts-4. Figure 6 The example used is that all four time periods have the same duration.

[0102] Optionally, a first time period within at least one time period is used to send control frames, and a time period outside the first time period within at least one time period is used to send data frames or beacon frames.

[0103] Optionally, the duration of any one of the multiple time periods is greater than or equal to the detection duration, the meaning of which can be found above. This ensures that when the first or second communication device needs to send a frame (data frame, control frame, or beacon frame) during a certain time period, it has sufficient time to detect whether the bus is idle.

[0104] As an example, the first time period is the first time period within the first synchronization cycle. This ensures that the first communication device can prioritize sending control frames within the first synchronization cycle.

[0105] In one possible implementation, the first communication device can determine if a first control frame to be sent exists within the first synchronization period without considering whether the bus is idle, and then directly send the first control frame. In this case, the first communication device may not need to execute step S502, that is, step S502 is optional. Figure 5 The middle part is indicated by a dashed line.

[0106] S505, The second communication device determines that there is a first data frame to be sent within the first synchronization period.

[0107] As an example, the second communication device can determine the frame length of the first data frame based on the duration of the first synchronization period. The frame length of the first data frame is positively correlated with the duration of the first synchronization period. In other words, the shorter the duration of the first synchronization period, the shorter the frame length of the first data frame can be determined by the second communication device; conversely, the longer the duration of the first synchronization period, the longer the frame length of the first data frame can be determined by the second communication device.

[0108] The second communication device can determine the frame length of the first data frame by selecting different encoding methods. For example, if the second communication device determines that the frame length of the first data frame is short, it can select an encoding method with a shorter frame length to encode the data to be transmitted, thereby obtaining the first data frame.

[0109] For example, the second communication device has a transmission bandwidth of 1.6 Mbps. The second communication device can select an encoding method where each physical block (PB) is 136 bytes to encode the data to be transmitted, thereby obtaining the first data frame. Testing shows that, compared to not adjusting the frame length of the first data frame, adjusting the frame length of the first data frame in this embodiment can shorten the transmission time of the first data frame by 4.5 ms.

[0110] The second communication device can detect whether a first data frame to be sent exists at any time interval (such as the first time interval) within the first synchronization period. If the second communication device does not have a first data frame to be sent within the first synchronization period, it does not need to consider sending the first data frame. If the second communication device has a first data frame to be sent within the first synchronization period, it can execute S506, that is, send the first data frame to the first communication device. Correspondingly, the first communication device receives the first data frame from the second communication device.

[0111] For example, the second communication device may send the first data frame during any time period other than the first time period (such as the second time period) within the first synchronization cycle.

[0112] Optionally, the second time period can be a time period randomly determined by the second communication device from among the time periods within the first synchronization period excluding the first time period. In this way, the second communication device effectively determines the time period for sending data frames randomly, which helps avoid sending data frames in the same time period as other second communication devices, reducing the possibility of data frame transmission time conflicts. Alternatively, the second time period can be a time period after K time periods following the first time period within the first synchronization period, where K is a positive integer. This ensures that the first communication device can send control frames with priority.

[0113] As an example, the second communication device may not need to send data frames to the first communication device. In this case, steps S505 to S506 do not need to be performed; that is, steps S505 to S506 are optional. Figure 5 The middle part is indicated by a dashed line.

[0114] The following example illustrates the delay in sending the first control frame in the communication method involved in the embodiments of this application.

[0115] For example, if the first communication device fails to send the first control frame in the first synchronization period (e.g., T1), the first communication device can wait until the next synchronization period (e.g., T2). In other words, the first communication device can theoretically send the first control frame in the next synchronization period. In this case, the delay in sending the first control frame is one synchronization period.

[0116] In a special case, the second communication device sends the first data frame during the last time period of the first synchronization cycle. The duration required for the second communication device to send the first data frame is T_maxframe, and the second communication device does not finish sending the first data frame until after the time period for sending control frames in a certain synchronization cycle. Therefore, the second communication device can only send control frames in the next synchronization cycle after sending the first data frame. In this case, the actual maximum delay for sending the first control frame can be expressed as: T_maxframe + 2*T_f - T_s + T_fastframe. Where T_s represents the duration of a time period included in the synchronization cycle, T_fastframe is the duration required for the second communication device to send the control frame, and T_f is the duration of a synchronization cycle. The actual maximum delay can be understood as the maximum possible delay that may occur when sending control frames using the scheme in the embodiments of this application.

[0117] In this embodiment, the first communication device transmits control frames during a certain time period within the synchronization period. Since the synchronization period is any one of the five or more synchronization periods included in the beacon period, even if the first communication device fails to transmit a control frame successfully in a certain synchronization period, it can still transmit a data frame in the next synchronization period, which helps reduce the latency of the first communication device transmitting control frames. Furthermore, since the beacon period includes five or more synchronization periods, in other words, the first communication device has five or more opportunities to transmit control frames within a beacon period, which is equivalent to increasing the chances of transmitting control frames within the beacon period, and also helps increase the probability of the first communication device successfully transmitting control frames within a beacon period. Moreover, the time period used to transmit control frames can be the first time period in the synchronization period, which ensures that the first communication device can transmit control frames preferentially. Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the duration of the synchronization period is short, the second communication device can reduce the frame length of the data frame, which helps to shorten the time required to transmit the data frame.

[0118] To reduce control frame latency, embodiments of this application also provide a communication method, which can be executed by a third communication device, which can be either a first communication device or a second communication device. The implementation of the first and second communication devices can be referred to the foregoing discussion.

[0119] Please refer to Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. For ease of explanation, in... Figure 8 Taking the third communication device in China as an example, this communication method is implemented.

[0120] S801, the third communication device obtains information about the beacon cycle.

[0121] The beacon period information includes the duration of the beacon period. Optionally, the beacon period may also include the start time of the beacon period.

[0122] For example, the beacon period information may be received by a third communication device from other devices. For instance, the third communication device may be the second communication device, and the third communication device may receive the beacon period information from the first communication device.

[0123] Alternatively, the beacon period information can be specified by the protocol. In this case, the third communication device does not need to obtain the beacon period information, and therefore does not need to execute S801. That is, S801 is an optional step. Figure 8 The middle part is indicated by a dashed line.

[0124] S802, the third communication device divides the beacon period into N synchronization periods, where N is an integer greater than 4. The first time period of the first synchronization period is used to send control frames, and the second time period of the first synchronization period is used to send data frames.

[0125] The third communication device can determine the duration of the synchronization period and divide the beacon period into N synchronization periods. The method by which the third communication device determines the duration of the synchronization period can be referred to the previous discussion.

[0126] For example, the third communication device can start a timer and set the timer's timing period to the duration of the synchronization period. The implementation of the timer can be found in the preceding discussion.

[0127] The first time period can be the first time period of the first synchronization cycle. Alternatively, the first time period can be a time period within the first synchronization cycle that precedes the second time period.

[0128] In one possible implementation, the third communication device may transmit a first control frame during a first time period. The content of the first control frame and the method of transmitting it can be referred to the preceding discussion, and will not be repeated here. This implementation is applicable to situations where the third communication device is the first communication device described above.

[0129] In another possible implementation, the third communication device may receive the first control frame during a first time period. The content of the first control frame and the method of receiving it are as described above and will not be repeated here. This implementation is applicable to situations where the third communication device is the second communication device described above.

[0130] In one possible implementation, the third communication device may transmit the first data frame during a second time period. The content of the first data frame and the method of transmitting it can be referred to the preceding discussion and will not be repeated here. This implementation is applicable to situations where the third communication device is the second communication device described above.

[0131] In another possible implementation, the third communication device may receive the first data frame during a second time period. The content of the first data frame and the method of receiving it are as described above and will not be repeated here. This implementation is applicable to situations where the third communication device is the first communication device described above.

[0132] Please refer to Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0133] like Figure 9 As shown, the communication device 900 includes a processing module 901 and a transceiver module 902. The communication device 900 can be used to implement any of the communication methods described above. In addition, the communication device 900 can also be used for the functions of the first communication device described above.

[0134] For example, the communication device 900 is used to implement the above. Figure 5 Any of the communication methods in the embodiments shown.

[0135] Specifically, the transceiver module 902 is used to execute steps S501 and S504, and the processing module 901 is used to execute step S503. Optionally, the transceiver module 902 is used to execute step S506.

[0136] Alternatively, the communication device 900 is used to execute the preceding text. Figure 8 Any of the communication methods in the embodiments shown.

[0137] Specifically, the transceiver module 902 is used to execute the steps of S801, and the processing module 901 is used to execute the steps of S802.

[0138] Please refer to Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0139] like Figure 10 As shown, the communication device 1000 includes a processing module 1001 and a transceiver module 1002. The communication device 1000 can be used to implement any of the communication methods described above. In addition, the communication device 1000 can also be used for the functions of the second communication device described above.

[0140] For example, the communication device 1000 is used to implement the above. Figure 5 Any of the communication methods in the embodiments shown.

[0141] Specifically, the transceiver module 1002 can execute steps S501 and S504 under the control of the processing module 1001. The processing module 1001 can also be used to execute step S504. Optionally, the transceiver module 1002 can be used to execute step S506.

[0142] Alternatively, the communication device 1000 is used to execute the preceding text. Figure 8 Any of the communication methods in the embodiments shown.

[0143] Specifically, the transceiver module 1002 is used to execute the steps of S801, and the processing module 1001 is used to execute the steps of S802.

[0144] Please refer to Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 11 As shown, the communication device 1100 includes a processor 1101 and a communication interface 1102. The processor 1101 and the communication interface 1102 are coupled to each other. The communication interface 1102 can be a transceiver or an input / output interface. The processor 1101 can be a central processing unit (CPU), or other general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic devices, transistor logic devices, hardware components, or any combination thereof. The general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0145] The processor 1101 and the communication interface 1102 can achieve the above-mentioned functions. Figure 5 or Figure 8 The communication method described in any of the above.

[0146] Optionally, the communication device 1100 may also include a memory 1103 for storing instructions executed by the processor 1101, or storing input data required by the processor 1101 to execute instructions, or storing data generated after the processor 1101 executes instructions.

[0147] In one possible embodiment, the communication device 1100 can be used to implement the functions of the first communication device described above, such as... Figure 5 or Figure 8 The first communication device involved.

[0148] Optionally, the communication device 1100 can also be used to implement Figure 9 The function of the communication device 900 in the middle.

[0149] For example, processor 1101 is used to implement the functions of the processing module 901, and communication interface 1102 is used to implement the functions of the transceiver module 902.

[0150] In one possible embodiment, the communication device 1100 can be used to implement the function of the second communication device mentioned above, and the first communication device is, for example, a... Figure 5 or Figure 8 The second communication device involved.

[0151] Optionally, the communication device 1100 can also be used to implement Figure 10 The function of the communication device 1000 in the middle.

[0152] For example, processor 1101 is used to implement the functions of the processing module 1001, and communication interface 1102 is used to implement the functions of the transceiver module 1002.

[0153] This application provides a chip system comprising a processor and an interface. The processor is configured to call and execute instructions from the interface. When the processor executes the instructions, it implements any of the communication methods described above, for example, implementing... Figure 5 or Figure 8 Any of the communication methods in the embodiments shown.

[0154] This application provides a computer-readable storage medium for storing computer programs or instructions that, when executed, implement any of the communication methods described above, for example, implementing... Figure 5 or Figure 8 Any of the communication methods in the embodiments shown.

[0155] This application provides a computer program product containing instructions. When the computer program product is run on a computer, it implements any of the communication methods described above, for example, implementing... Figure 5 or Figure 8 Any of the communication methods in the embodiments shown.

[0156] The method steps in the embodiments of this application can be implemented in hardware or by a processor executing software instructions. The software instructions can consist of corresponding software modules, which can be stored in random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, erasable programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory, registers, hard disks, portable hard disks, CD-ROMs, or any other form of storage medium known in the art. An exemplary storage medium is coupled to a processor, enabling the processor to read information from and write information to the storage medium. Of course, the storage medium can also be a component of the processor. The processor and storage medium can reside in an ASIC. Alternatively, the ASIC can reside in a base station or terminal. Of course, the processor and storage medium can also exist as discrete components in the base station or terminal.

[0157] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved entirely or partially through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented using software, it can be implemented entirely or partially in the form of a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer programs or instructions. When the computer program or instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this application are performed entirely or partially. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, a network device, a user equipment, or other programmable device. The computer program or instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transferred from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer program or instructions can be transferred from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via wired or wireless means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium that a computer can access or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available medium can be a magnetic medium, such as a floppy disk, hard disk, or magnetic tape; it can also be an optical medium, such as a digital video optical disc; or it can be a semiconductor medium, such as a solid-state drive. The computer-readable storage medium may be a volatile or non-volatile storage medium, or may include both types of storage media.

[0158] In the various embodiments of this application, unless otherwise specified or in case of logical conflict, the terminology and / or descriptions of different embodiments are consistent and can be referenced by each other. The technical features of different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments according to their inherent logical relationship.

[0159] It is understood that the various numerical designations used in the embodiments of this application are merely for descriptive convenience and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of this application. The order of the process numbers described above does not imply the order of execution; the execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, A first communication device applied in a power line carrier system, the method comprising: It is determined that a first control frame to be sent exists within a first synchronization period. The first synchronization period is one of the N synchronization periods included in the beacon period. The duration of the first synchronization period is greater than the detection duration and less than the maximum service delay. The detection duration refers to the duration required by the first communication device to detect the frame header of the data frame. The maximum service delay refers to the preset maximum delay for sending the control frame. N is an integer greater than 4. The first control frame is sent to at least one second communication device during a first time period in the first synchronization cycle, wherein the first time period is used to send the control frame.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first time period is the first time period in the first synchronization cycle.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: The bus is determined to be idle during a first time period within the first synchronization cycle; the bus is used to enable communication between the first communication device and the at least one second communication device; or... It is determined that the bus is not idle during a first time period in the second synchronization cycle, the second synchronization cycle and the first synchronization cycle are two adjacent synchronization cycles in the beacon cycle, and the second synchronization cycle is a synchronization cycle that precedes the first synchronization cycle.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The method further includes: A first data frame is received from one of the at least one second communication devices during a second time period in the first synchronization period, wherein the second time period in the first synchronization period is a time period following the first time period in the first synchronization period.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send indication information to the at least one second communication device, the indication information being used to indicate the start time of the beacon period; Start the first timer, the timing period of the first timer is the first synchronization period.

6. A communication method, characterized in that, A second communication device applied in a power line carrier system, the method comprising: Receive indication information from a first communication device, the indication information being used to indicate the start time of a beacon period, the beacon period comprising N synchronization periods, where N is an integer greater than 4; A first control frame is received from the first communication device during a first time period in the first synchronization cycle. The first synchronization cycle is one of the N synchronization cycles. The duration of the first synchronization cycle is greater than the detection duration and less than the maximum service latency. The detection duration refers to the time required for the first communication device to detect the frame header of the data frame. The maximum service latency refers to the preset maximum latency for sending the control frame. The first time period is used to send the control frame, and the control frame is used to schedule the data frames of the second communication device.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first time period is the first time period in the first synchronization cycle.

8. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The method includes: Determine that a first data frame to be sent exists within the first synchronization period; The first data frame is sent to the first communication device during a second time period in the first synchronization period, where the second time period in the first synchronization period is a time period following the first time period in the first synchronization period.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The frame length of the first data frame is positively correlated with the duration of the first synchronization period.

10. The method according to any one of claims 6-9, characterized in that, The method includes: Start the second timer, whose timing period is the same as the first synchronization period.

11. A communication device, characterized in that, The device, used in power line carrier systems, includes: The processing module is used to determine that there is a first control frame to be sent within a first synchronization period. The first synchronization period is one of the N synchronization periods included in the beacon period. The duration of the first synchronization period is greater than the detection duration and less than the maximum service delay. The detection duration refers to the duration required by the first communication device to detect the frame header of the data frame. The maximum service delay refers to the preset maximum delay for sending the control frame. N is an integer greater than 4. The transceiver module is configured to send the first control frame to at least one second communication device during a first time period in the first synchronization cycle, wherein the first time period is used to send the control frame.

12. A communication device, characterized in that, The device, used in power line carrier systems, includes: The transceiver module is used to receive indication information from the first communication device under the control of the processing module. The indication information is used to indicate the start time of the beacon period, and the beacon period includes N synchronization periods, where N is an integer greater than 4. The transceiver module is further configured to receive a first control frame from the first communication device during a first time period in the first synchronization cycle under the control of the processing module. The first synchronization cycle is one of the N synchronization cycles, the duration of the first synchronization cycle is greater than the detection duration, and the duration of the first synchronization cycle is less than the maximum service delay. The detection duration refers to the time required for the first communication device to detect the frame header of the data frame, and the maximum service delay refers to the preset maximum delay for sending the control frame. The first time period is used to send the control frame, and the control frame is used to schedule the data frames of the second communication device.

13. A communication device, characterized in that, include: A processor and a communication interface, the communication interface being used to receive signals from other devices besides the communication device and transmit them to the processor or to send signals from the processor to other devices besides the communication device, the processor executing code instructions through logic circuits to implement the method as described in any one of claims 1-10.

14. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The storage medium stores a computer program or instructions, which, when executed by a communication device, implement the method as described in any one of claims 1-10.

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