Access point and its scheduling method

Abstract

A scheduling method is provided for arranging target wake-up time communication between an access point and at least one site. The scheduling method includes the access point adjusting the broadcast target wake-up time schedule according to power-saving settings, and the access point transmitting the broadcast target wake-up time schedule. The broadcast target wake-up time schedule includes the broadcast target wake-up time start time, the broadcast target wake-up time service time, and the broadcast target wake-up time interval.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to wireless communication, and more particularly to an access point in wireless communication and a method for scheduling the target wake-up time of the access point. Background Technology

[0002] Wi-Fi is a wireless local area network (WLAN) technology based on the IEEE 802.11 standard, widely used in various electronic products such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones. A WLAN typically consists of an access point and many stations, with the access point maintaining a connection to each station. If every station could transmit data with the access point at any time, device power consumption would increase significantly. Wi-Fi 6 (also known as IEEE 802.11ax) uses target wake time (TWT) technology, allowing the access point to define a target wake time service period (SP) for a group of stations or a single station. Within the target wake time service period, the group of stations or the single station can transmit data with the access point; outside the target wake time service period, the group of stations or the single station enters sleep mode, thereby reducing power consumption.

[0003] However, in related technologies, the access point can only enter sleep mode when all stations have entered sleep mode, so the power saving efficiency of the access point cannot be improved. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention provides a scheduling method for arranging target wake time (TWT) communication between an access point and at least one site. The scheduling method includes the access point adjusting the broadcast target wake time schedule according to power-saving settings, and the access point transmitting the broadcast target wake time schedule. The broadcast target wake time schedule includes the broadcast target wake time start time, the broadcast target wake time service time, and the broadcast target wake time interval.

[0005] This invention also provides an access point for arranging target wake-up time communication between the access point and at least one site. The access point includes a processor and a transceiver. The processor adjusts the broadcast target wake-up time schedule according to power-saving settings. The broadcast target wake-up time schedule includes a broadcast target wake-up time start time, a broadcast target wake-up time service time, and a broadcast target wake-up time interval. The transceiver is coupled to the processor and transmits the broadcast target wake-up time schedule. Attached Figure Description

[0006] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a wireless communication system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0007] Figure 2 It is a timeline showing the broadcast TWT process.

[0008] Figure 3 It displays the timeline of a single TWT process.

[0009] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A block diagram of the access points.

[0010] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a scheduling method for access points in a system.

[0011] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of another scheduling method for access points in the system.

[0012] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of another scheduling method for access points in the system.

[0013] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of another scheduling method for access points in the system.

[0014] Figure 9 yes Figure 1 A flowchart of a scheduling method for access points in [the context of a system].

[0015] Figure 10 yes Figure 1 The flowchart shows another scheduling method for access points in the process.

[0016] List of reference numerals: 1: Wireless communication system; 10: Access point; 121, 122: Site; 141, 142: Wireless link; 200: Broadcast TWT procedure; 202: Beacon; 204, 206, 306, 308: UL / DL data transmission; 300: Individual TWT procedure; 302: TWT request; 304: TWT response; 40: Memory; 41: Input device; 42: Processor; 44: Transceiver; 46: Antenna; 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000: Scheduling method; 502: Broadcast TWT service period; 512, 622, 632, 732, 812, 822, 832: Individual TWT service periods; S902 to S930, S1002 to S1024: Steps; t1 to t9: Time; SPb: Broadcast TWT service time; SPi: Individual TWT service time; ITVLb: Broadcast TWT interval; ITVLi: Individual TWT interval; TBTT: Target beacon transmission time. Detailed Implementation

[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a wireless communication system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The wireless communication system 1 is compatible with the IEEE 802.11 standard, such as IEEE 802.11n and IEEE 802.11ac. The wireless communication system 1 supports target wake time (TWT) scheduling to schedule communication devices (e.g., access points or stations) within the system, allowing them to enter a sleep state and be woken up during service periods for data transmission, thereby reducing power consumption. In this embodiment, the access point can perform TWT scheduling according to its power-saving settings to increase power efficiency and meet power-saving requirements. Furthermore, the wireless communication system 1 supports orthogonal frequency-division multiple access (OFDMA).

[0018] The wireless communication system 1 may include an access point (AP) 10, a station (STA) 121, and a station 122. Stations 121 and 122 may be associated with access point 10, and a wireless link 141 may be established between access point 10 and station 121, and a wireless link 142 may be established between access point 10 and station 122. Access point 10 may be further coupled to the Internet or other networks. Access point 10 may be a mobile phone, a wireless router, or other network device. Stations 121 and 122 may be mobile phones, laptops, cameras, IoT devices, gaming devices, medical devices, wearable devices, or other electronic devices. Access point 10 may use broadcast TWTs and / or individual TWTs for TWT scheduling. Figure 2 and Figure 3 The timeline of broadcast TWT process 200 and the timeline of standalone TWT process 300 are displayed respectively.

[0019] In the broadcast TWT process 200, access point 10 can independently set and advertise the broadcast TWT schedule without consulting with sites 121 and 122, and sites 121 and 122 can join the broadcast TWT group. (Reference) Figure 2Between times t1 and t2, access point 10 transmits beacon 202, which carries broadcast TWT scheduling and other information. The broadcast TWT scheduling may include the broadcast TWT start time, broadcast TWT service period (SP), and broadcast TWT interval. The broadcast TWT service period represents the time for data transmission, for example, 60 milliseconds (ms). The broadcast TWT interval represents the interval between the start times of two consecutive broadcast TWT service periods, for example, 200 ms. The broadcast TWT start time represents the start time of the next broadcast TWT service period, for example, the transmission time of the next beacon 202. Stations 121 and 122 can receive broadcast TWT scheduling via broadcast beacon 202, enter sleep mode, and be woken up at the broadcast TWT start time to perform uplink (UL) or downlink (DL) data transmission. Access point 10 can use OFDMA technology to simultaneously perform DL data transmission to stations 121 and 122. Between times t2 and t3, access point 10, stations 121, and 122 enter sleep mode. Between times t3 and t4, access point 10, station 121, and station 122 are awakened to perform UL / DL data transmission 204. Time t3 can be the start time of the broadcast TWT, and the absolute difference between times t3 and t4 can be the broadcast TWT service time SPb. Between times t4 and t5, access point 10, station 121, and station 122 enter sleep mode again, and between times t5 and t6, access point 10, station 121, and station 122 are awakened again to perform UL / DL data transmission 206. Between times t6 and t7, access point 10, station 121, and station 122 enter sleep mode again. The absolute differences between times t3 and t5 and between times t5 and t7 can be the broadcast TWT interval ITVLb, and the absolute difference between times t5 and t6 can be the broadcast TWT service time SPb.

[0020] In the standalone TWT process 300, access point 10 can negotiate with site 121 or site 122 to set up standalone TWT scheduling. The following explanation uses the standalone TWT scheduling of site 121 as an example. Figure 3Between times t1 and t2, station 121 transmits a TWT request 302 to access point 10. Then, between times t3 and t4, access point 10 transmits a TWT response 304 to station 121. The TWT request 302 may include a requested individual TWT schedule, which includes a requested individual TWT start time, a requested individual TWT service time, and a requested individual TWT interval. The TWT response 304 may include a suggested individual TWT schedule, including a suggested individual TWT start time, a suggested individual TWT service time, and a suggested individual TWT interval. The suggested individual TWT start time, suggested individual TWT service time, and suggested individual TWT interval may be the same as or different from the requested individual TWT start time, requested individual TWT service time, and requested individual TWT interval, respectively. Although Figure 3 This demonstrates that access point 10 and site 121 can complete individual TWT scheduling negotiation simply by exchanging TWT request 302 and TWT response 304. In some embodiments, access point 10 and site 121 may also exchange multiple TWT request 302 and TWT response 304 to complete the negotiation. After the negotiation is completed, access point 10 and site 121 enter sleep mode between times t4 and t5. Between times t5 and t6, access point 10 and site 121 are awakened to perform UL / DL data transmission 306. Time t3 can be the individual TWT start time, and the absolute difference between times t5 and t6 can be the individual TWT service time SPi. Between times t6 and t7, access point 10 and site 121 enter sleep mode again, and between times t7 and t8, access point 10 and site 121 are awakened again to perform UL / DL data transmission 308. Between times t8 and t9, access point 10 and site 121 enter sleep mode again. The absolute difference between time t5 and t7 and the absolute difference between time t7 and t9 can be a separate TWT interval ITVLi, and the absolute difference between time t7 and t8 can be a separate TWT service time SPi.

[0021] Figure 4This is a block diagram of access point 10. Access point 10 includes a memory 40, an input device 41, a processor 42, a transceiver 44, and an antenna 46. The memory 40 and input device 41 may be coupled to the processor 42, and the processor 42, transceiver 44, and antenna 46 may be coupled sequentially. The memory 40 may store data and / or software code, which can be used to implement the scheduling method of access point 10. The input device 41 may be a keyboard, mouse, touch screen, or other input device, used to receive power-saving settings of access point 10 input by the user. The power-saving settings of access point 10 may include a combination of an ideal power-saving ratio, a preset TWT spacing, a preset TWT service time, and a minimum power-saving ratio. The processor 42 may execute the software code in the memory 40 to perform TWT scheduling according to the power-saving settings of access point 10. The antenna 46 may include one or more antennas to support single-user (SU) or multi-user (MU) transmission. The transceiver 44 can transmit TWT schedules via antenna 46 and perform data transmission according to the TWT schedules.

[0022] Processor 42 can establish a broadcast TWT schedule in a preset power-saving mode based on the power-saving settings of access point 10, and add all relevant stations to the broadcast TWT group. Transceiver 44 can transmit the broadcast TWT schedule so that all relevant stations can transmit data according to the broadcast TWT schedule, thereby achieving the power-saving requirements of access point 10. For example, access point 10 can add stations 121 and 122 to the broadcast TWT group so that stations 121 and 122 can transmit data according to the broadcast TWT schedule. The broadcast TWT group can be stored in memory 40. Since the data transmission of stations 121 and 122 is completed in the broadcast TWT schedule, the power-saving efficiency of access point 10 will be greatly improved. The preset power-saving mode can be beacon mode, delivery traffic indication message (DTIM) mode, preset TWT interval mode, or preset TWT service time mode.

[0023] In some embodiments, the preset power-saving mode may be a beacon mode, and the power-saving setting of access point 10 includes an ideal power-saving ratio, such as 90%. Processor 42 may adjust the broadcast TWT service time SPb according to the ideal power-saving ratio and beacon spacing, and set the broadcast TWT spacing ITVLb according to the beacon spacing. The beacon spacing may also be called the target beacon transmit time (TBTT). Access point 10 may periodically broadcast beacons 202 according to the TBTT. For example, the TBTT may be 100ms, and access point 10 may transmit one beacon every 100ms. Processor 42 may adjust the broadcast TWT service time SPb to 10 (=100*(1-0.9))ms, and set the broadcast TWT spacing ITVLb to 100ms.

[0024] In other embodiments, the preset power-saving mode may be a Transmit Traffic Indication Message (DTIM) mode, and the power-saving settings of access point 10 include an ideal power-saving ratio. Processor 42 may adjust the broadcast TWT service time SPb according to the ideal power-saving ratio and the DTIM interval, and set the broadcast TWT interval ITVLb according to the DTIM interval. DTIM beacons are used to notify the site access point 10 whether its data is stored. The DTIM interval is the interval between two consecutive DTIM beacons, which may be a multiple of TBTT. For example, DTIM may be 2TBTT, and access point 10 may transmit one DTIM beacon every 200ms. If the ideal power-saving ratio is 90%, processor 42 may adjust the broadcast TWT service time SPb to 20 (=200*(1-0.9))ms, and set the broadcast TWT interval ITVLb to 200ms.

[0025] In other embodiments, the preset power-saving mode may be a preset TWT spacing mode, and the power-saving setting of access point 10 includes an ideal power-saving ratio and a preset TWT spacing. Processor 42 can adjust the broadcast TWT service time SPb according to the ideal power-saving ratio and the preset TWT spacing, and set the broadcast TWT spacing ITVLb according to the preset TWT spacing. If the ideal power-saving ratio is 90% and the preset TWT spacing is 200ms, then processor 42 can adjust the broadcast TWT service time SPb to 20 (=200*(1-0.9))ms, and set the broadcast TWT spacing ITVLb to 200ms.

[0026] In other embodiments, the preset power-saving mode may be a preset TWT service time mode, and the power-saving setting of access point 10 includes an ideal power-saving ratio and a preset TWT service time. Processor 42 can adjust the broadcast TWT spacing ITVLb according to the ideal power-saving ratio and the preset TWT service time, and set the broadcast TWT service time SPb according to the preset TWT service time. If the ideal power-saving ratio is 90% and the preset TWT service time is 10ms, then processor 42 can set the broadcast TWT service time SPb to 10ms and adjust the broadcast TWT spacing ITVLb to 100 (=10 / (1-0.9))ms.

[0027] If a relevant site refuses to join the broadcast TWT group and wants to establish a separate TWT schedule, access point 10 can align the start time of the separate TWT schedule with the start time of the broadcast TWT schedule to determine whether the power-saving requirements of access point 10 can be met. If the power-saving requirements of access point 10 can be met, access point 10 can transmit the aligned separate TWT schedule to the relevant site. If the relevant site agrees to use the aligned separate TWT schedule, since the start time of the separate TWT and the start time of the broadcast TWT are aligned, access point 10 can reduce the data transmission time, thereby improving the power-saving efficiency of access point 10. In some embodiments, transceiver 44 can receive a first separate TWT request from the first relevant site. The first separate TWT request includes the first requested separate TWT start time, the first requested separate TWT service time, and the first requested separate TWT interval. Processor 42 can set the first individual TWT start time to the broadcast TWT start time, set the first individual TWT service time according to the first requested individual TWT service time, and set the first individual TWT interval according to the first requested individual TWT interval, thereby obtaining a first individual TWT schedule. The first individual TWT schedule includes the broadcast TWT start time, the first individual TWT service time, and the first individual TWT interval. If the first individual TWT schedule and the broadcast TWT schedule can meet the power saving requirements of access point 10, transceiver 44 can transmit the first individual TWT schedule to the first related site. Site 121 is used below as the first related site. Figure 5 The scheduling method of access point 10 is illustrated with an example 500.

[0028] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the scheduling method 500 of access point 10 is shown, including broadcast TWT scheduling and first individual TWT scheduling. Figure 5This is an embodiment of aligning the start time of the first individual TWT with the start time of the broadcast TWT to meet the power-saving requirements of access point 10. The broadcast TWT scheduling includes the broadcast TWT start time TWTb, the broadcast TWT service time SPb, and the broadcast TWT interval ITVLb, where the broadcast TWT start time TWTb equals TBTT, the broadcast TWT service time SPb equals 20ms, and the broadcast TWT interval ITVLb equals 200ms. The first individual TWT request includes the requested individual TWT start time TWTrq1, the requested individual TWT service time SPrq1, and the requested individual TWT interval ITVLrq1, where the requested individual TWT start time TWTrq1 equals TBTT + 10ms, the requested individual TWT service time SPrq1 equals 64ms, and the requested individual TWT interval ITVLrq1 equals 512ms.

[0029] Processor 42 sets the individual TWT start time TWTi1 to the broadcast TWT start time TWTb (TWTi1=TWTb=TBTT) to align the individual TWT start time TWTi1 and the broadcast TWT start time TWTb. Next, processor 42 rounds the requested individual TWT service time SPrq1 to the nearest 10ms to generate the individual TWT service time SPi1 (SPi1=60ms), and rounds the requested individual TWT interval ITVLrq1 to the nearest 100ms to generate the individual TWT interval ITVLi1 (ITVLi1=500ms), thereby generating the first individual TWT schedule.

[0030] In some embodiments, the power-saving setting of access point 10 may include a minimum power-saving ratio, for example, a minimum power-saving ratio of 70%. In some embodiments, processor 42 may generate a set of broadcast TWT service durations 502 based on the broadcast TWT start time TWTb, the broadcast TWT service time SPb, and the broadcast TWT interval INTLb, and generate a set of individual TWT service durations 512 based on the individual TWT start time TWTTi1, the individual TWT service time SPi1, and the individual TWT interval ITVLi. Processor 42 may calculate the sleep ratio of access point 10 based on the set of broadcast TWT service durations 502 and the set of individual TWT service durations 512. In some embodiments, processor 42 may calculate the sleep ratio of access point 10 by adding the non-overlapping periods of the set of broadcast TWT service durations 502 and the set of individual TWT service durations 512 within a predetermined time period. For example, in Figure 5The predetermined time period is 1 second, and the individual TWT service period 512 of this group partially overlaps with the broadcast TWT service period 502 of this group. Therefore, the sleep ratio of access point 10 is 80% (=1-((60+20+20+60+20+20) / 1000)), which exceeds the minimum power saving ratio (70%). Therefore, the power saving requirement of access point 10 can be met, and transceiver 44 will transmit the first individual TWT schedule to site 121. The first individual TWT schedule can be a suggested individual TWT schedule, and site 121 can accept or reject the first individual TWT schedule.

[0031] If multiple related sites refuse to join the broadcast TWT group and want to establish separate TWT schedules, access point 10 can align the start times of the individual TWTs in the multiple separate TWT schedules with the start time of the broadcast TWT in the broadcast TWT schedule to determine whether the power saving requirements of access point 10 can be met. If the power saving requirements of access point 10 can be met, access point 10 can transmit the aligned individual TWT schedules to the multiple related sites respectively. If the power saving requirements of access point 10 cannot be met, access point 10 can adjust the individual TWT service time and / or individual TWT interval of one of the multiple individual TWT schedules to meet the power saving requirements of access point 10. In some embodiments, if the power saving requirements of access point 10 cannot be met, access point 10 can adjust the individual TWT service time and / or individual TWT interval of the last individual TWT schedule joined to meet the power saving requirements of access point 10.

[0032] In some embodiments, after receiving a first individual TWT request, transceiver 44 may receive a second individual TWT request from a second associated site. The second individual TWT request includes the individual TWT start time, the individual TWT service time, and the individual TWT interval. Processor 42 may set the second individual TWT start time to the broadcast TWT start time, set the second individual TWT service time according to the individual TWT service time, and set the second individual TWT interval according to the individual TWT interval to obtain a second individual TWT schedule. The second individual TWT schedule includes the broadcast TWT start time, the second individual TWT service time, and the second individual TWT interval. If the first individual TWT schedule, the second individual TWT schedule, and the broadcast TWT schedule meet the power-saving requirements of access point 10, transceiver 44 may transmit the second individual TWT schedule to the second associated site. If the second associated site agrees to use the second individual TWT schedule, the power-saving efficiency of access point 10 will be improved because the first individual TWT schedule, the second individual TWT schedule, and the broadcast TWT schedule have been aligned and meet the power-saving requirements.

[0033] If the first individual TWT scheduling, the second individual TWT scheduling, and the broadcast TWT scheduling cannot meet the power-saving requirements of access point 10, transceiver 44 may adjust the service time of the second individual TWT and / or the interval of the second individual TWT to meet the power-saving requirements of access point 10. The following uses site 121 as the first relevant site and site 122 as the second relevant site, illustrated with examples of scheduling methods 600 to 800 for access point 10 in Figures 6 to 8.

[0034] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the scheduling method 600 for access point 10 is shown, including broadcast TWT scheduling, first individual TWT scheduling, and second individual TWT scheduling. Figure 6 This is an embodiment that shortens the service time of the second individual TWT in the second individual TWT scheduling while maintaining the spacing between the second individual TWTs to meet the power saving requirements of access point 10. Figure 6 and Figure 5 The broadcast TWT scheduling is similar to the first individual TWT scheduling, and its explanation will not be repeated here. Access point 10 may also receive a second individual TWT request, including the requested individual TWT start time TWTrq2, the requested individual TWT service time SPrq2, and the requested individual TWT interval ITVLrq2, wherein the requested individual TWT start time TWTrq2 is equal to TBTT, the requested individual TWT service time SPrq2 is equal to 100ms, and the requested individual TWT interval ITVLrq2 is equal to 300ms.

[0035] Processor 42 sets the individual TWT start time TWTi2 to the broadcast TWT start time TWTb (TWTi2=TWTb=TBTT) to align the individual TWT start time TWTi2 and the broadcast TWT start time TWTb. Next, processor 42 uses the requested individual TWT service time SPrq2 as the individual TWT service time SPi2 (SPi2= SPrq2=100ms) and the requested individual TWT interval ITVLrq2 as the individual TWT interval ITVLi2 (ITVLi2= ITVLrq2=300ms) to generate a second individual TWT schedule.

[0036] In some embodiments, the processor 42 may, in accordance with Figure 5The method generates the group of broadcast TWT service periods 502 and the group of first individual TWT service periods 512, and generates a group of individual TWT service periods 622 based on the individual TWT start time TWTi2, the individual TWT service time SPi2, and the individual TWT interval ITVLi2. The processor 42 calculates the sleep ratio of the access point 10 based on the group of broadcast TWT service periods 502, the group of individual TWT service periods 512, and the group of individual TWT service periods 622. In some embodiments, the processor 42 can calculate the sleep ratio of the access point 10 by adding the non-overlapping periods of the group of broadcast TWT service periods 502, the group of individual TWT service periods 512, and the group of individual TWT service periods 622 within a predetermined time period. For example, in Figure 6 The scheduled time period is 1 second, and the broadcast TWT service period 502, the individual TWT service period 512, and the individual TWT service period 622 of this group partially overlap. Therefore, the sleep ratio of access point 10 is 48% (=1-((100+20+100+20+60+100+20+100) / 1000)), which is less than the minimum power saving ratio (=70%). Therefore, the power saving requirement of access point 10 cannot be met. In order to meet the power saving requirement of access point 10, processor 42 maintains the individual TWT interval ITVLi2 unchanged (ITVLi2=300ms) and shortens the individual TWT service period SPi2 (SPi2=40ms) to update the second individual TWT schedule. The processor 42 generates a set of individual TWT service periods 632 based on the individual TWT start time TWTi2, the individual TWT service time SPi2, and the individual TWT interval ITVLi2, and calculates the sleep ratio of the access point 10 based on the set of broadcast TWT service periods 502, the set of individual TWT service periods 512, and the set of individual TWT service periods 632. In some embodiments, the processor 42 can add up the non-overlapping periods of the set of broadcast TWT service periods 502, the set of individual TWT service periods 512, and the set of individual TWT service periods 632 within a predetermined time period to calculate the sleep ratio of the access point 10. For example, the broadcast TWT service period 502, the individual TWT service period 512, and the individual TWT service period 632 partially overlap. Therefore, the sleep rate of access point 10 is 70% (=1-((60+20+40+20+60+40+20+40) / 1000)), which is equal to the minimum power saving rate (70%). Thus, the power saving requirement of access point 10 can be met, and transceiver 44 will transmit the updated second individual TWT schedule to site 122. The second individual TWT schedule can be a suggested individual TWT schedule, which site 122 can accept or reject.

[0037] Figure 7A schematic diagram of the scheduling method 700 of access point 10 is shown, including broadcast TWT scheduling, first individual TWT scheduling and second individual TWT scheduling. Figure 7 This is an embodiment that increases the second individual TWT spacing in the second individual TWT scheduling while maintaining the second individual TWT service time to meet the power saving requirements of access point 10. Figure 7 and Figure 6 The broadcast TWT scheduling, the first individual TWT scheduling, and the second individual TWT scheduling (initial) are similar, and their explanations will not be repeated here.

[0038] As described in the preceding paragraphs, since the sleep rate (48%) of access point 10 generated by the second individual TWT scheduling (initial) is less than the minimum power-saving rate (70%), the power-saving requirement of access point 10 cannot be met. To meet the power-saving requirement of access point 10, processor 42 maintains the individual TWT service period SPi2 unchanged (SPrq2 = 100ms) and increases the individual TWT interval ITVLi2 (ITVLi2 = 500ms) to update the second individual TWT scheduling. In some embodiments, processor 42 may select the individual TWT interval ITVLi2 (= 500ms) from the existing broadcast TWT interval ITVLb (100ms) and individual TWT interval ITVLi1 (500ms). The processor 42 generates a set of individual TWT service periods 732 based on the individual TWT start time TWTi2, the individual TWT service time SPi2, and the individual TWT interval ITVLi2, and calculates the sleep ratio of the access point 10 based on the set of broadcast TWT service periods 502, the set of individual TWT service periods 512, and the set of individual TWT service periods 732. In some embodiments, the processor 42 can add up the non-overlapping periods of the set of broadcast TWT service periods 502, the set of individual TWT service periods 512, and the set of individual TWT service periods 732 within a predetermined time period to calculate the sleep ratio of the access point 10. For example, the broadcast TWT service period 502, the individual TWT service period 512, and the individual TWT service period 732 partially overlap, so the sleep rate of access point 10 is 72% (=1-((100+20+20+100+20+20) / 1000)), which exceeds the minimum power saving rate (70%). Therefore, the power saving requirement of access point 10 can be met, and transceiver 44 will transmit the updated second individual TWT schedule to site 122. The second individual TWT schedule can be a suggested individual TWT schedule, which site 122 can accept or reject.

[0039] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the scheduling method 800 of access point 10 is shown, including broadcast TWT scheduling, first individual TWT scheduling and second individual TWT scheduling. Figure 8This is an embodiment of adjusting the service time and spacing of the second individual TWT in the second individual TWT scheduling to meet the power saving requirements of access point 10. Figure 8 and Figure 5 The broadcast TWT scheduling is similar, and its explanation will not be repeated here. The first individual TWT scheduling for the first relevant site has been established, and includes the individual TWT start time TWTi1, the individual TWT service time SPi1, and the individual TWT interval ITVLi, wherein the individual TWT start time TWTi1 equals TBTT, the individual TWT service time SPi1 equals 20ms, and the individual TWT interval ITVLi1 equals 100ms. Access point 10 may also receive a second individual TWT request from the second relevant site, including the requested individual TWT start time TWTrq2, the requested individual TWT service time SPrq2, and the requested individual TWT interval ITVLrq2, wherein the requested individual TWT start time TWTrq2 equals TBTT, the requested individual TWT service time SPrq2 equals 60ms, and the requested individual TWT interval ITVLrq2 equals 160ms.

[0040] Processor 42 sets the individual TWT start time TWTi2 to the broadcast TWT start time TWTb (TWTi2=TWTb=TBTT) to align the individual TWT start time TWTi2 and the broadcast TWT start time TWTb. Next, processor 42 uses the requested individual TWT service time SPrq2 as the individual TWT service time SPi2 (SPi2=SPrq2=60ms), and selects the larger value from the existing broadcast TWT interval ITVLb (200ms) and individual TWT interval ITVLi1 (100ms) that is close to the requested individual TWT interval ITVLrq2 (160ms) as the individual TWT interval ITVLi2 (ITVLi2=200ms) to generate a second individual TWT schedule. Selecting the larger value as the individual TWT interval ITVLi2 results in a longer data transmission interval, thereby reducing the power consumption of the second related station.

[0041] In some embodiments, the processor 42 may, in accordance with Figure 5The method generates the group of broadcast TWT service periods 502, generates a group of individual TWT service periods 812 based on the individual TWT start time TWTi1, the individual TWT service time SPi1, and the individual TWT interval ITVLi, and generates a group of individual TWT service periods 822 based on the individual TWT start time TWTi2, the individual TWT service time SPi2, and the individual TWT interval ITVLi2. The processor 42 calculates the sleep ratio of the access point 10 based on the group of broadcast TWT service periods 502, the group of individual TWT service periods 812, and the group of individual TWT service periods 822. In some embodiments, the processor 42 can calculate the sleep ratio of the access point 10 by adding the non-overlapping periods of the group of broadcast TWT service periods 502, the group of individual TWT service periods 812, and the group of individual TWT service periods 822 within a predetermined time period. For example, in Figure 8The scheduled time period is 1 second, and the broadcast TWT service period 502, the individual TWT service period 812, and the individual TWT service period 822 of this group partially overlap. Therefore, the sleep ratio of access point 10 is 60% (=1-((60+20+60+20+60+20+60+20+60+20) / 1000)), which is less than the minimum power saving ratio (=70%). Therefore, the power saving requirement of access point 10 cannot be met. In order to meet the power saving requirement of access point 10, processor 42 selects the smaller value of the individual TWT interval ITVLrq2 (160ms) close to the requested interval from the existing broadcast TWT interval ITVLb (200ms) and individual TWT interval ITVLi1 (100ms) as the individual TWT interval ITVLi2 (ITVLi2=100ms), and at the same time shortens the individual TWT service time SPi2 (from 60ms to 20ms) to generate a second individual TWT schedule. Choosing a smaller value as the individual TWT interval ITVLi2 results in a shorter data transmission interval, thereby reducing the transmission delay of the second related site. Next, the processor 42 generates a set of individual TWT service periods 832 based on the individual TWT start time TWTi2, the individual TWT service time SPi2, and the individual TWT interval ITVLi2, and calculates the sleep ratio of access point 10 based on the set of broadcast TWT service periods 502, the set of individual TWT service periods 812, and the set of individual TWT service periods 832. In some embodiments, the processor 42 can calculate the sleep ratio of access point 10 by adding the non-overlapping periods of the set of broadcast TWT service periods 502, the set of individual TWT service periods 812, and the set of individual TWT service periods 832 within a predetermined time period. For example, the broadcast TWT service period 502, the individual TWT service period 812, and the individual TWT service period 832 partially overlap. Therefore, the sleep rate of access point 10 is 80% (=1-((20+20+20+20+20+20+20+20+20+20) / 1000)), which exceeds the minimum power saving rate (70%). Therefore, the power saving requirement of access point 10 can be met, and transceiver 44 will transmit the updated second individual TWT schedule to site 122. The second individual TWT schedule can be a suggested individual TWT schedule, which site 122 can accept or reject.

[0042] In some embodiments, if site 122 rejects the second individual TWT scheduling proposed by access point 10, access point 10 may accept the second individual TWT request from the relevant site 122 to update the second individual TWT scheduling. Processor 42 may update the individual TWT start time TWTi2 (TWTi2=TBTT) using the requested individual TWT start time TWTrq2, update the individual TWT service time SPi2 (SPi2=60ms) using the requested individual TWT service time SPrq2, and update the individual TWT interval ITVLi2 (ITVLi2=160ms) using the requested individual TWT interval ITVLrq2. Then, processor 42 generates a set of requested individual TWT service periods based on the individual TWT start time TWTi2, the individual TWT service time SPi2, and the individual TWT interval ITVLi2, and updates the minimum power saving ratio based on the set of broadcast TWT service periods 502, the set of individual TWT service periods 812, and the set of requested individual TWT service periods. In some embodiments, the processor 42 may calculate an updated minimum power saving ratio by adding the non-overlapping periods of the group of broadcast TWT service periods 502, the group of individual TWT service periods 812, and the group of requested individual TWT service periods within a predetermined time period.

[0043] Figure 9 This is a scheduling method 900 for access point 10. The scheduling method 900 includes steps S902 to S930, used to perform TWT scheduling based on the power-saving settings of access point 10. Steps S902 to S908 are used to establish broadcast TWT scheduling and establish broadcast TWT groups based on the power-saving settings of access point 10. Steps S910 to S930 are used to establish individual TWT scheduling based on the minimum power-saving ratio of access point 10 and the individual TWT requests of related sites. Any reasonable technical changes or adjustments to the steps fall within the scope of this invention. The detailed content of steps S902 to S930 is as follows:

[0044] Step S902: Obtain the power saving settings of access point 10;

[0045] Step S904: Adjust the broadcast TWT scheduling according to the power saving settings of access point 10;

[0046] Step S906: Transmit broadcast TWT schedule;

[0047] Step S908: Determine whether the relevant site agrees to join the broadcast TWT group. If yes, end scheduling method 900; if no, continue to step S910.

[0048] Step S910: Receive individual TWT requests from the relevant site;

[0049] Step S912: Align the individual TWT start time with the broadcast TWT start time;

[0050] Step S914: Calculate the sleep ratio Tdz of access point 10 based on all individual TWT scheduling and broadcast TWT scheduling;

[0051] Step S916: Determine if the hibernation ratio Tdz is less than the minimum power saving ratio PSmin. If yes, continue to step S920; if no, continue to step S918.

[0052] Step S918: Determine whether the relevant site agrees to individual TWT scheduling. If yes, end scheduling method 900; if no, continue to step S920.

[0053] Step S920: Update the individual TWT service time and / or individual TWT interval to update the individual TWT schedule;

[0054] Step S922: Calculate the sleep ratio Tdz of access point 10 based on all individual TWT scheduling and broadcast TWT scheduling;

[0055] Step S924: Determine if the hibernation ratio Tdz is less than the minimum power saving ratio PSmin. If yes, return to step S920; if no, continue to step S926.

[0056] Step S926: Determine whether the relevant site agrees to individual TWT scheduling. If yes, end scheduling method 900; if no, continue to step S928.

[0057] Step S928: Accept individual TWT requests from relevant sites to update individual TWT schedules;

[0058] Step S930: Update the minimum power saving ratio PSmin of access point 10 based on individual TWT scheduling and broadcast TWT scheduling; end scheduling method 900.

[0059] In step S902, the input device 41 receives the power-saving settings of the access point 10 from the user. Next, the processor 42 adjusts the broadcast TWT schedule according to the preset power-saving mode and the power-saving settings of the access point 10 (S904), and transmits the broadcast TWT schedule (S906). The access point 10 can request relevant stations to join the broadcast TWT group and receive responses from the relevant stations indicating whether they agree to join the broadcast TWT group. In step S908, the processor 42 determines whether the relevant station agrees to join the broadcast TWT group based on the response. If the station agrees to join the broadcast TWT group, the processor 42 adds the relevant station to the broadcast TWT group, and the transceiver 44 performs data transmission for the relevant station according to the broadcast TWT schedule, ending the scheduling method 900.

[0060] If a user does not agree to join the broadcast TWT group, transceiver 44 receives individual TWT requests from the relevant site to trigger individual TWT negotiation (S910). Processor 42 first aligns the individual TWT start time with the broadcast TWT start time to generate an individual TWT schedule for the relevant site (S912). The method for aligning the individual TWT start time with the broadcast TWT start time has been described in the previous paragraphs and will not be repeated here. Next, processor 42 calculates the sleep ratio Tdz of access point 10 based on all individual TWT schedules and broadcast TWT schedules (S914) and determines whether the sleep ratio Tdz is less than the minimum power saving ratio PSmin (S916). If so, it means that the existing TWT schedule cannot meet the power saving requirements of access point 10, so processor 42 updates the individual TWT service time and / or individual TWT interval to update the individual TWT schedule for the relevant site (S920). If not, it means that the existing TWT scheduling can meet the power saving requirements of access point 10. Therefore, transceiver 44 transmits a separate TWT response including separate TWT scheduling to the relevant site, and processor 42 determines whether the relevant site agrees to separate TWT scheduling (S918).

[0061] If the relevant site agrees to individual TWT scheduling, transceiver 44 performs data transmission for the relevant site according to the individual TWT scheduling, and scheduling method 900 ends. If the relevant site does not agree to individual TWT scheduling, processor 42 updates the individual TWT service time and / or individual TWT interval to update the individual TWT scheduling for the relevant site (S920). The method of updating the individual TWT service time and / or individual TWT interval has been described in the previous paragraphs and will not be repeated here. In step S922, processor 42 determines whether the sleep ratio Tdz is less than the minimum power saving ratio PSmin. If yes, it means that the existing TWT scheduling cannot meet the power saving requirements of access point 10, so processor 42 updates the individual TWT service time and / or individual TWT interval again to update the individual TWT scheduling for the relevant site (S920). If no, it means that the existing TWT scheduling can meet the power saving requirements of access point 10, so transceiver 44 transmits an individual TWT response including the updated individual TWT scheduling to the relevant site, and processor 42 determines whether the relevant site agrees to the updated individual TWT scheduling (S926).

[0062] If the relevant site agrees to the updated individual TWT schedule, transceiver 44 performs data transmission for the relevant site according to the updated individual TWT schedule, and scheduling method 900 ends. If the relevant site does not agree to the updated individual TWT schedule, processor 42 accepts the individual TWT request from the relevant site to update the individual TWT schedule (S928), and updates the minimum power saving ratio PSmin of access point 10 according to the individual TWT schedule and broadcast TWT schedule (S930). The method of updating the minimum power saving ratio PSmin has been explained in the previous paragraphs and will not be repeated here.

[0063] The scheduling method 900 performs TWT scheduling based on the power saving settings of access point 10, aligns individual TWT scheduling and broadcast TWT scheduling, and adjusts individual TWT scheduling to meet power saving requirements, thereby improving the power saving efficiency of access point 10.

[0064] Figure 10 This is a flowchart of another scheduling method 1000 for access point 10. Scheduling method 1000 includes steps S1002 to S1024, replacing steps S920 to S926 in scheduling method 900. Any reasonable technical changes or adjustments to the steps fall within the scope of this invention. The details of steps S1002 to S1024 are as follows:

[0065] Step S1002: Maintain the individual TWT interval and shorten the individual TWT SP to update the individual TWT schedule;

[0066] Step S1004: Calculate the sleep ratio Tdz of access point 10 based on all individual TWT scheduling and broadcast TWT scheduling;

[0067] Step S1006: Determine if the sleep ratio Tdz is less than the minimum power saving ratio PSmin. If yes, return to step S1002; if no, continue to step S1008.

[0068] Step S1008: Determine whether the relevant site agrees to individual TWT scheduling. If yes, end scheduling method 1000; if no, continue to step S1010.

[0069] Step S1010: Maintain individual TWT SPs and increase the individual TWT interval to update the individual TWT schedule;

[0070] Step S1012: Calculate the sleep ratio Tdz of access point 10 based on all individual TWT scheduling and broadcast TWT scheduling;

[0071] Step S1014: Determine if the sleep ratio Tdz is less than the minimum power saving ratio PSmin. If yes, return to step S1010; if no, continue to step S1016.

[0072] Step S1016: Determine whether the relevant site agrees to individual TWT scheduling. If yes, end scheduling method 1000; if no, continue to step S1018.

[0073] Step S1018: Select an individual TWT spacing based on the existing TWT spacing to update the individual TWT schedule;

[0074] Step S1020: Calculate the sleep ratio Tdz of access point 10 based on all individual TWT scheduling and broadcast TWT scheduling;

[0075] Step S1022: Determine if the sleep ratio Tdz is less than the minimum power saving ratio PSmin. If yes, return to step S1018; if no, continue to step S1024.

[0076] Step S1024: Determine whether the relevant site agrees to individual TWT scheduling. If yes, end scheduling method 1000; if no, continue to step S928.

[0077] Steps S1002 to S1008 are used to shorten the individual TWT SP to update the individual TWT schedule and confirm whether the relevant sites agree to the updated individual TWT schedule. The method of shortening the individual TWT SP has been described in the previous paragraphs and will not be repeated here. If agreed, transceiver 44 performs data transmission for the relevant sites according to the updated individual TWT schedule, and scheduling method 1000 ends. If not agreed, proceed to steps S1010 to S1016.

[0078] Steps S1010 to S1016 are used to increase the individual TWT interval to update the individual TWT schedule and confirm whether the relevant sites agree to the updated individual TWT schedule. The method of increasing the individual TWT interval has been described in the previous paragraphs and will not be repeated here. If they agree, transceiver 44 performs data transmission for the relevant sites according to the updated individual TWT schedule, and scheduling method 1000 ends. If they disagree, proceed to steps S1018 to S1024.

[0079] Steps S1018 to S1024 are used to simultaneously adjust the individual TWT spacing and individual TWT SP to update the individual TWT schedule and confirm whether the relevant sites agree to the updated individual TWT schedule. The method of adjusting the individual TWT spacing and individual TWT SP has been described in the previous paragraphs and will not be repeated here. If agreed, transceiver 44 performs data transmission for the relevant sites according to the updated individual TWT schedule, and scheduling method 1000 ends. If not agreed, the process jumps to step S928 of scheduling method 900, and steps S928 and S930 are executed sequentially, then scheduling method 900 ends.

[0080] In some embodiments, steps S1002 and S1010 can be interchanged. Access point 10 can first adjust the individual TWT spacing to update the individual TWT schedule. If the relevant site does not accept the updated individual TWT schedule, access point 10 can then adjust the individual TWTSP to update the individual TWT schedule again.

[0081] The scheduling method 1000 adjusts the individual TWT scheduling according to the power saving settings of the access point 10 to achieve the power saving requirements, thereby improving the power saving efficiency of the access point 10.

[0082] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention. All equivalent changes and modifications made within the scope of the claims of the present invention should be included in the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A scheduling method for arranging target wake-up time communication between an access point and at least one station, characterized in that, The scheduling method includes: The access point adjusts a broadcast target wake-up time schedule based on a power-saving setting. This broadcast target wake-up time schedule includes a broadcast target wake-up time start time, a broadcast target wake-up time service time, and a broadcast target wake-up time interval. The access point transmits the broadcast target wake-up time schedule, where The access point receives a first individual target wake-up time request from a first site of the at least one site. The first individual target wake-up time request includes a first requested individual target wake-up time service time and a first requested individual target wake-up time interval. The access point transmits a first individual target wake-up time schedule to the site. The first individual target wake-up time schedule includes the start time of the broadcast target wake-up time, a first individual target wake-up time service time, and a first individual target wake-up time interval. The access point sets the first individual target wake-up time service time based on the individual target wake-up time service time of the first request. The access point sets the first individual target wake-up time interval based on the individual target wake-up time interval of the first request. The power-saving setting includes a minimum power-saving percentage. The method further includes: The access point generates a set of broadcast target wake-up time service periods based on the start time of the broadcast target wake-up time, the service time of the broadcast target wake-up time, and the interval of the broadcast target wake-up time. The access point generates a set of first individual target wake-up time service periods based on the start time of the broadcast target wake-up time, the service time of the first individual target wake-up time, and the interval of the first individual target wake-up time. The access point calculates a first sleep ratio based on the group's broadcast target wake-up time service period and the group's first individual target wake-up time service period; and If the first sleep ratio is less than the minimum power saving ratio, the access point updates the first individual target wake-up time service time and / or the first individual target wake-up time interval.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The power-saving setting also includes an ideal power-saving ratio; and The access point adjusts the broadcast target wake-up time scheduling based on the power-saving settings, including: The access point adjusts the broadcast target wake-up time service time based on the ideal power-saving ratio and a beacon spacing; and The access point sets the broadcast target wake-up time interval based on the beacon spacing.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The power-saving setting also includes an ideal power-saving ratio; and The access point adjusts the broadcast target wake-up time scheduling based on the power-saving settings, including: The access point adjusts the broadcast target wake-up time service time based on the ideal power saving ratio and the interval of a transmission flow indication message; and The access point sets the broadcast target wake-up time interval based on the interval of the transmission traffic indication message.

4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The power-saving setting also includes an ideal power-saving ratio and a preset target wake-up time interval; and The access point adjusts the broadcast target wake-up time scheduling based on the power-saving settings, including: The access point adjusts the broadcast target wake-up time service time based on the ideal power saving ratio and the preset target wake-up time interval. and The access point sets the broadcast target wake-up time interval based on the preset target wake-up time interval.

5. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The power-saving setting also includes an ideal power-saving ratio and a preset target wake-up time service time; and The access point adjusts the broadcast target wake-up time scheduling based on the power-saving settings, including: The access point adjusts the broadcast target wake-up time interval based on the ideal power-saving ratio and the preset target wake-up time service time; and The access point sets the broadcast target wake-up time service time based on the preset target wake-up time service time.

6. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: The access point receives a second individual target wake-up time request from a second site of the at least one site, the second individual target wake-up time request including an individual target wake-up time service time of the second request and an individual target wake-up time interval of the second request; and The access point transmits a second individual target wake-up time schedule to the site. The second individual target wake-up time schedule includes the start time of the broadcast target wake-up time, the service time of the second individual target wake-up time, and the interval of the second individual target wake-up time.

7. An access point for arranging target wake-up time communication between the access point and at least one site, characterized in that, The access point includes: A processor is configured to adjust a broadcast target wake-up time schedule according to a power-saving setting, the broadcast target wake-up time schedule including a broadcast target wake-up time start time, a broadcast target wake-up time service time, and a broadcast target wake-up time interval; and A transceiver, coupled to the processor, is used to transmit the broadcast target wake-up time schedule, wherein The transceiver receives a first individual target wake-up time request from a first station of the at least one station. The first individual target wake-up time request includes a first requested individual target wake-up time service time and a first requested individual target wake-up time interval. The transceiver transmits a first individual target wake-up time schedule to the station. The first individual target wake-up time schedule includes the start time of the broadcast target wake-up time, a first individual target wake-up time service time, and a first individual target wake-up time interval. The processor sets the first individual target wake-up time service time based on the individual target wake-up time service time of the first request. The processor sets the first individual target wake-up time interval based on the individual target wake-up time interval of the first request. The power-saving setting includes a minimum power-saving percentage, and further... The processor generates a set of broadcast target wake-up time service periods based on the start time of the broadcast target wake-up time, the service time of the broadcast target wake-up time, and the interval of the broadcast target wake-up time. The processor generates a set of first individual target wake-up time service periods based on the start time of the broadcast target wake-up time, the service time of the first individual target wake-up time, and the interval of the first individual target wake-up time. The processor calculates a first sleep ratio for the access point based on the group of broadcast target wake-up time service periods and the group of first individual target wake-up time service periods; and If the first sleep ratio is less than the minimum power saving ratio, the processor updates the first individual target wake-up time service time and / or the first individual target wake-up time interval.

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