Communication method and device

Abstract

The invention provides a communication method and device, relates to the technical field of communication, and is used for ensuring the fairness of an ML entity and an SL entity in channel competition. The communication method is applied to an ML entity, the ML entity supports a main link and at least one slave link, a backoff counter is arranged on the main link, and no backoff counter is arranged on the slave link; the communication method comprises the following steps: an ML entity executes a backoff process of a main link based on a backoff counter of the main link; when the count value of the backoff counter is 0, the ML entity sends a first PPDU on each first link in K first links, the K first links comprise the main link and (K-1) first slave links, and the first slave links are in an idle state in a first inter-frame interval before the moment when the count value of the backoff counter is reduced to 0. The method and the device are suitable for a multi-link channel access process.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application. The application number of the original application is 201910606607.7, and the original application date is July 5, 2019. The entire contents of the original application are incorporated into this application by reference. Technical Field

[0002] The present application relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to communication methods and devices. Background Art

[0003] In order to achieve the technical goal of extremely high throughput, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11be standard uses multi-link (ML) as one of the key technologies. An ML entity that supports ML technology has the ability to send and receive in multiple frequency bands, so that the ML entity can use a larger bandwidth for data transmission, which is conducive to significantly improving throughput. Among them, the spatial path for ML entities to transmit data on a frequency band can be called a link.

[0004] Currently, for any of the multiple links supported by the ML entity, the ML entity can have two channel access modes on a link. Mode 1: When the count value of the backoff counter of the link is decremented to 0, the ML entity can access the channel on the link. Mode 2: When the backoff counter of other links is decremented to 0, if the link is in an idle state within the previous PI FS, the ML entity can access the channel on the link.

[0005] Since a single link (SL) entity only supports data transmission on one link, the SL entity can perform channel access on the link only when the count value of the backoff counter of the link it supports decreases to 0.

[0006] Therefore, for a link, the possibility of ML entity competing for the channel is greater than that of SL entity competing for the channel. In other words, when ML entity and SL entity are deployed in WLAN at the same time, SL entity is at a disadvantage in channel competition, thus affecting the normal communication of SL entity. Summary of the invention

[0007] The present application provides a communication method and apparatus for ensuring fairness of SL entities in channel competition.

[0008] In a first aspect, a communication method is provided, which is applied to an ML entity, the ML entity supports a main link and at least one slave link, a backoff counter is set on the main link, and no backoff counter is set on the slave link; the method comprises: the ML entity executes a backoff process of the main link based on the backoff counter; when the count value of the backoff counter is reduced to 0, the ML entity sends a first physical layer protocol data unit (PPDU) on each of K first links respectively, the K first links include the main link and K-1 first slave links, the first slave link is in an idle state within a first inter-frame interval before the count value of the backoff counter is reduced to 0, and K is a positive integer.

[0009] Based on the above technical solution, since the ML entity only sets the backoff counter on the main link, the ML entity only performs the backoff process on the main link when accessing the channel. In this way, the ML entity cannot compete for the channel before the backoff process of the main link ends, thereby ensuring that the probability of the ML entity competing for the channel on the main channel is equal to the probability of the SL entity competing for the channel on the link it supports. Therefore, the technical solution provided by the present application can ensure the fairness of the SL entity in the channel competition, thereby ensuring that the SL entity can communicate normally.

[0010] In addition, based on the above technical solution, when the link supported by the SL entity is the same link as the main link of the ML entity, the SL entity and the ML entity actually compete for channels on the same link. In this way, when the ML entity successfully competes for a channel on the main link, the SL entity will not send PPDU on the main link, thereby ensuring that the ML entity will not have the problem of asynchronous reception and transmission on multiple links. For example, taking link #1 as the main link, when the count value of the backoff counter of the ML AP entity on link #1 is 0, the ML AP entity sends PPDU on link #1 and link #2, and the SL entity will not send PPDU to the ML AP entity on link #1. As a result, the ML AP entity can synchronously receive signals on link #1 and link #2, or synchronously send signals.

[0011] In one possible design, the ML entity sends the first PPDU on each of the K first links, including: the ML entity sends the first PPDU on the available channels of each of the K first links, the available channels of the main link include the main channel of the main link, and the available channels of the first slave link include the main channel of the first slave link.

[0012] In one possible design, the ML entity executes a backoff process of the main link based on a backoff counter, including: the ML entity waits for the idle time of the main channel of the main link to reach a second inter-frame interval; after the idle time of the main channel of the main link reaches the second inter-frame interval, each time the main channel of the main link is in an idle state in a time slot, the ML entity reduces the count value of the backoff counter by 1; when the count value of the backoff counter is reduced to 0, the ML entity ends the backoff process of the main link.

[0013] In one possible design, the first slave link is in an idle state within the first inter-frame interval before the end moment of the backoff process of the main link, including: the main channel of the first slave link is in an idle state within the first inter-frame interval before the count value of the backoff counter is reduced to 0.

[0014] In one possible design, the main channel of the first slave link is the 20 MHz sub-channel with the lowest frequency in the frequency band corresponding to the first slave link; or, the main channel of the first slave link is the 20 MHz sub-channel with the highest frequency in the frequency band corresponding to the first slave link. That is, the main channel of the first slave link is configured in an implicit manner, which is conducive to saving signaling overhead.

[0015] In one possible design, the first PPDU includes: a first type of media access control (MAC) frame, and the first type of MAC frame does not require a response.

[0016] In one possible design, the first PPDU includes: a second type MAC frame, and the second type MAC frame requires a response. The method also includes: the ML entity receives a response frame of the second type MAC frame on one or more first links; if the one or more first links do not include a main link, the ML entity determines that a transmission opportunity (TXOP) fails to be established; if the one or more first links include a main link, the ML entity determines that the TXOP is successfully established.

[0017] In one possible design, the method further includes: the ML entity determines N second links corresponding to the TXOP, the N second links include a master link and N-1 second slave links, the second slave link is a first slave link that meets a preset condition, and the preset condition includes: the ML entity sends a first PPDU including a first type MAC frame on the first slave link; or, the ML entity sends a first PPDU including a second type MAC frame on the first slave link, and receives a response frame of the second type MAC frame on the first slave link. The ML entity sends a second PPDU on each of the N second links.

[0018] In one possible design, the method also includes: if one or more second slave links fail to transmit the second PPDU, the ML entity stops sending the second PPDU on the second link where the transmission of the second PPDU fails, and continues to send the second PPDU on the second link where the transmission of the second PPDU succeeds until the TXOP ends.

[0019] In one possible design, the method also includes: if the transmission of the second PPDU on one or more second links fails, the ML entity stops sending the second PPDU on the N second links; the ML entity waits for the idle time of the main link to reach the first inter-frame interval; after the idle time of the main link reaches the first inter-frame interval, the ML entity sends the second PPDU on each of the P third links respectively, the P third links include the main link and P-1 third slave links, the third slave links are second slave links that are idle within the first inter-frame interval before the first moment, the first moment is the moment when the idle time of the main link reaches the first inter-frame interval, and P is a positive integer less than or equal to N.

[0020] In one possible design, the method also includes: if the transmission of the second PPDU on one or more second links fails, the ML entity stops sending the second PPDU on the N second links; the ML entity performs a backoff process on the main link; after the backoff process of the main link ends, the ML entity sends the second PPDU on each of the P third links respectively, the P third links include the main link and P-1 third slave links, the third slave links are second slave links that are in an idle state within the first inter-frame interval before the end time of the backoff process of the main link, and P is a positive integer less than or equal to N.

[0021] In a second aspect, a communication method is provided, which is applied to an ML entity, and the ML entity supports K first links. The method includes: the ML entity performs a backoff process on each of the K first links, K is a positive integer greater than or equal to 2; when the backoff process of the target link ends, the ML entity sends a first PPDU on each of the N second links, the second link is a first link that is idle in the first inter-frame interval before the end time of the backoff process of the target link, the target link is the first first link among the K first links to end the backoff process, N is a positive integer less than or equal to K; if the transmission of the first PPDU fails on one or more second links, the ML entity does not send the second PPDU on the second link where the transmission of the first PPDU fails within a preset time, or the ML entity does not send the second PPDU on the N second links within a preset time.

[0022] Based on the above technical solution, when the ML entity fails to transmit the first PPDU on one or more second links, the ML entity is prohibited from sending the second PPDU on the second link where the PPDU transmission failed within a preset time, or the ML entity is prohibited from sending the second PPDU on N second links within a preset time. In this way, the ML entity cannot use multiple links within the preset time. If one of the multiple links that the ML entity cannot use is supported by the SL entity, then within the preset time, since the ML entity cannot compete for the channel on the link supported by the SL entity, the probability of the SL entity competing for the channel increases, thereby ensuring the fairness of the SL entity in the channel competition, thereby ensuring the normal communication of the SL entity.

[0023] In a third aspect, a communication method is provided, the method being applied to an ML entity, the ML entity supporting K first links. The method further includes: the ML entity performing a backoff process on each of the K first links, K being a positive integer greater than or equal to 2; the ML entity sending a first PPDU on each of the N second links, the second link being a first link for which the backoff process has ended and which is in an idle state within a first interframe interval before a first moment, N being a positive integer less than or equal to M.

[0024] Based on the above technical solution, although ML executes the backoff process on K first links, the second link used to send the first PPDU needs to meet the condition that the backoff process has ended. In other words, on a link, the ML entity must at least end the backoff on the link before it can compete for the channel. Compared with the prior art, the ML entity can compete for the channel even if the backoff process is not completed on a link, the technical solution of the present application reduces the probability of the ML entity competing for the channel on a link, thereby ensuring the fairness of the SL entity in channel competition, and further ensuring that the SL entity can communicate normally.

[0025] In one possible design, the first moment is the end moment of the backoff process of the target link, and the target link is the last second link among the N second links to end the backoff process.

[0026] In a fourth aspect, a communication method is provided, which is applied to an ML entity, and the ML entity supports K first links. The method also includes: the ML entity performs a backoff process on each of the K first links, where K is a positive integer greater than or equal to 2; when the sum of the count values ​​of the backoff counters of the K first links is less than or equal to 0, or the sum of the count values ​​of the backoff counters of the N second links is less than or equal to 0, the ML entity sends a first PPDU on each of the N second links, respectively, where the second link is a first link that is in an idle state within a second interframe interval before the current moment, and N is a positive integer less than or equal to M.

[0027] Based on the above technical solution, although the ML entity executes the backoff process on each of the K first links, the ML entity can only successfully compete for the channel under the condition that the sum of the count values ​​of the backoff counters of the K first links is less than or equal to 0, or the sum of the count values ​​of the backoff counters of the N second links is less than or equal to 0. In other words, the count value of the backoff counter of the ML entity on one or more first links needs to be less than 0. This requires that one or more first links be idle for a longer period of time, resulting in a lower probability for the ML entity to compete for the channel. The lower probability of the ML entity competing for the channel weakens the advantage of the ML entity over the SL entity in channel competition, ensures the fairness of the SL entity in channel competition, and thus ensures that the SL entity can communicate normally.

[0028] In one possible design, the ML entity performs a backoff procedure on each of the K first links, including: for each of the K first links, the ML entity waits for the idle time of the first link to reach a second inter-frame interval; after the idle time of the first link reaches the second inter-frame interval, each time the first link is in an idle state in a time slot, the ML entity subtracts 1 from the count value of the backoff counter of the first link.

[0029] In one possible design, the count value of the backoff counter of the first link includes a negative integer.

[0030] In a possible design, the method further includes: for each of the K first links, after the idle time of the first link reaches the second inter-frame interval, whenever the first link is in an idle state in a time slot, the ML entity reduces the count value of the target counter by 1, and the target counter is used to record the sum of the count values ​​of the backoff counters of the K first links. In this way, the ML entity can directly obtain the sum of the count values ​​of the backoff counters of the K first links through the target counter.

[0031] In a fifth aspect, a communication method is provided, which is applied to an ML entity, the ML entity supports multiple links, and the multiple links take turns as the first link in a preset cyclic order. The method also includes: the ML entity performs a backoff process on the first link; after the backoff process of the first link ends, the ML entity sends a first PPDU on each of the N second links, the N second links include the first link and N-1 available links, and the available links are in an idle state within the first interframe interval before the end time of the backoff process of the first link, and N is a positive integer.

[0032] Based on the above technical solution, each time a channel access is performed, the ML entity only performs the backoff process on the first link. That is, the ML entity only competes for the channel on one link. The probability of the ML entity competing for the channel on one link is equal to the probability of the SL entity competing for the channel on one link. In this way, the fairness of the SL entity in the channel competition is guaranteed, thereby ensuring that the SL entity can communicate normally.

[0033] In a sixth aspect, an ML entity is provided, which may include a module for executing a method / operation / step / action described in any one of the designs of the first aspect to the fifth aspect. The above module may be a hardware circuit, or software, or implemented in combination with a hardware circuit and software.

[0034] In a seventh aspect, an ML entity is provided, the ML entity comprising a processor and a transceiver, the processor being configured to perform processing operations in the communication method according to any one of the first to fifth aspects. The transceiver is configured to accept control of the processor and perform transceiver operations in the communication method according to any one of the first to fifth aspects.

[0035] In an eighth aspect, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, which is used to store instructions. When the instructions are read by a computer, the computer is used to execute the communication method involved in any one of the designs in the first to fifth aspects above.

[0036] In a ninth aspect, a computer program product is provided, the computer program product comprising instructions. When a computer reads the instructions, the computer executes the communication method involved in any possible design of the first to fourth aspects.

[0037] In the tenth aspect, a chip is provided, which includes a processing circuit and a transceiver pin. The chip supports a main link and at least one slave link, a backoff counter is set on the main link, and no backoff counter is set on the slave link. The processing circuit is used for the ML entity to execute the backoff process of the main link based on the backoff counter. The transceiver pin is used for the ML entity to send a first PPDU on each of the K first links respectively when the count value of the backoff counter is reduced to 0, the K first links include the main link and K-1 first slave links, the first slave link is in an idle state within the first interframe interval before the count value of the backoff counter is reduced to 0, and K is a positive integer.

[0038] In the eleventh aspect, a chip is provided, which includes a processing circuit and a transceiver pin. The chip supports K first links. The processing circuit is used to execute the backoff process on each of the K first links respectively, where K is a positive integer greater than or equal to 2. The transceiver pin is used to send a first PPDU on each of the N second links when the backoff process of the target link ends, the second link is a first link that is idle in the first interframe interval before the end time of the backoff process of the target link, and the target link is the first first link among the K first links to end the backoff process, where N is a positive integer less than or equal to K. The transceiver pin is also used to not send a second PPDU on the second link where the first PPDU fails to be transmitted within a preset time, or not send a second PPDU on the N second links within a preset time if the transmission of the first PPDU fails on one or more second links.

[0039] In a twelfth aspect, a chip is provided, the chip comprising a processing circuit and a transceiver pin. The chip supports K first links. The processing circuit is used to execute a backoff process on each of the K first links, respectively, where K is a positive integer greater than or equal to 2. The transceiver pin is used to send a first PPDU on each of the N second links, respectively, where the second link is a first link in which the backoff process has ended and is in an idle state within a first interframe interval before a first moment, and N is a positive integer less than or equal to M.

[0040] In a thirteenth aspect, a chip is provided, the chip comprising a processing circuit and a transceiver pin. The chip supports K first links. The processing circuit is used to perform a backoff process on each of the K first links, where K is a positive integer greater than or equal to 2. The transceiver pin is used to send a first PPDU on each of the N second links when the sum of the count values ​​of the backoff counters of the K first links is less than or equal to 0, or the sum of the count values ​​of the backoff counters of the N second links is less than or equal to 0, respectively, the second link is a first link that is in an idle state within a second interframe interval before the current moment, and N is a positive integer less than or equal to M.

[0041] In a fourteenth aspect, a chip is provided, the chip comprising a processing circuit and a transceiver pin. The chip supports multiple links, and the multiple links take turns as the first link in a preset cyclic order. The processing circuit is used to execute a backoff process on the first link. The transceiver pin is used to send a first PPDU on each of N second links after the backoff process of the first link ends, the N second links include the first link and N-1 available links, and the available links are in an idle state within the first interframe interval before the end time of the backoff process of the first link, and N is a positive integer.

[0042] Among them, the technical effects brought about by any design in aspects 6 to 14 can refer to the beneficial effects in the corresponding methods provided above, and will not be repeated here. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0043] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a backoff process provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0044] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a PPDU frame structure provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0045] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of an ML communication scenario provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0046] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of another ML communication scenario provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0047] Figure 5 A flow chart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0048] Figure 6 A flowchart of another communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0049] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of another ML communication scenario provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0050] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of another ML communication scenario provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0051] FIG9( a) is a flow chart of another communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0052] FIG9( b) is a flow chart of another communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0053] Fig.10 A flowchart of another communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0054] FIG11( a) is a flow chart of another communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0055] FIG11( b) is a flow chart of another communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0056] Fig.12 A flowchart of another communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0057] Fig.13 A flowchart of another communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0058] Fig.14 A schematic diagram of the structure of an ML entity provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0059] Fig.15 A schematic diagram of the structure of an ML entity provided in an embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0060] In the description of this application, unless otherwise specified, " / " means "or", for example, A / B can mean A or B. "And / or" in this article is merely a description of the association relationship of associated objects, indicating that three relationships may exist. For example, A and / or B can mean: A exists alone, A and B exist at the same time, and B exists alone. In addition, "at least one" means one or more, and "plurality" means two or more. The words "first", "second", etc. do not limit the quantity and execution order, and the words "first", "second", etc. do not limit them to be different.

[0061] It should be noted that, in this application, words such as "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate examples, illustrations or descriptions. Any embodiment or design described as "exemplary" or "for example" in this application should not be interpreted as being more preferred or more advantageous than other embodiments or designs. Specifically, the use of words such as "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present related concepts in a specific way.

[0062] To facilitate understanding, the technical terms involved in the embodiments of the present application are briefly introduced below.

[0063] 1. Basic service set (BSS)

[0064] BSS is used to describe a group of devices that can communicate with each other in wireless local area networks (WLAN). A WLAN can include multiple BSSs. Each BSS has a unique identifier, called a basic service set identifier (BSSID).

[0065] A BSS may include multiple stations (STAs). A station may be an access point (AP) or a non-AP STA (none access point station). Optionally, a BSS may include an AP and multiple non-AP STAs associated with the AP.

[0066] AP is also called wireless access point or hotspot. AP can be a wireless router, wireless transceiver, wireless switch, etc.

[0067] Non-AP STA can have different names, such as user unit, access terminal, mobile station, mobile station, mobile device, terminal, user equipment, etc. In practical applications, non-AP STA can be a cellular phone, smart phone, wireless local loop (wireless local loop, WLL), and other handheld devices and computer devices with wireless LAN communication function.

[0068] 2. Backoff mechanism

[0069] The IEEE 802.11 standard supports multiple users sharing the same transmission medium. The sender detects the availability of the transmission medium before sending data. The IEEE 802.11 standard uses carrier sense multiple access with collision avoidance (CSMA / CA) to implement channel competition. In order to avoid collision, CSMA / CA uses a backoff mechanism.

[0070] The backoff mechanism on a single channel is described below. Before a device sends a message, it can select a random number from 0 to the contention window (CW) and use the random number as the initial value of the backoff counter. After the idle time of the channel reaches the arbitration inter-frame space (AI FS), the count value of the backoff counter is reduced by 1 every time the channel is idle for a time slot (times lot). Before the count value of the backoff counter is reduced to 0, if the channel is busy in a certain time lot, the backoff counter will pause counting. Afterwards, if the channel changes from a busy state to an idle state, and the idle time of the channel reaches the AI ​​FS, the backoff counter will resume counting. When the count value of the backoff counter reaches 0, the backoff process ends and the device can start data transmission.

[0071] Combination Figure 1 For example, assume that the initial value of the backoff counter is 5. After the idle time of the channel reaches AIFS, the backoff counter starts to back off. Whenever the channel is idle in a time slot, the count value of the backoff counter is reduced by 1 until the count value of the backoff counter is 0. After the count value of the backoff counter is 0, the device successfully competes for the channel and can send PPDU on the channel.

[0072] 3. PPDU

[0073] like Figure 2Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the frame structure of PPDU in the 802.11ax standard. PPDU includes: legacy-short training field (L-STF), legacy long training field (L-LTF), legacy signaling field (L-SIG), repeated legacy signaling field (RL-SIG), high efficient signaling field A (HE-SIG A), high efficient signaling field B (HE-SIG B), high efficient short training field (HE-STF), high efficient long training field (HE-LTF), data, and data packet extension (PE).

[0074] 4. TXOP

[0075] TXOP is the basic unit for wireless channel access. TXOP consists of an initial time and a maximum duration TXOPl imit. A station that obtains TXOP can continue to use the channel to transmit multiple data frames without re-competing for the channel within the TXOPl imit time.

[0076] 5. Request to send (RTS) / clear to send (CTS) mechanism

[0077] The RTS / CTS mechanism is used to solve the problem of hidden stations to avoid signal conflicts between multiple stations.

[0078] Before sending a data frame, the sender first broadcasts an RTS frame to instruct the sender to send a data frame to the specified receiver within a specified time. After receiving the RTS frame, the receiver broadcasts a CTS frame to confirm the sender's transmission. Other stations that receive the RTS frame or CTS frame do not send wireless frames until the specified time ends.

[0079] 6. ML Entities

[0080] The ML entity has the ability to send and receive on multiple frequency bands. Exemplarily, the multiple frequency bands include but are not limited to: 2.4 GHz frequency band, 5 GHz frequency band, and 6 GHz frequency band. The spatial path for the ML entity to perform data transmission on a frequency band can be called a link. In other words, the ML entity supports multi-link communication.

[0081] It should be understood that, for an ML entity, each link supported by the ML entity corresponds to a frequency band.

[0082] The ML entity may also be referred to as an ML STA entity. The ML entity includes multiple STAs. Multiple STAs in the ML entity may have the same MAC address or different MAC addresses. Multiple STAs in the ML entity may be located in the same physical location or in different physical locations.

[0083] Each STA in the ML entity can establish a link for communication. Figure 3 As shown, ML entity A includes site A1-site AN, and ML entity B includes site B1-site BN. Site A1 and site B1 communicate via link 1, site A2 and site B2 communicate via link 2, and so on, site AN and site BN communicate via link N.

[0084] When the frequency intervals between multiple frequency bands supported by the ML entity are close, the ML entity sending signals on one frequency band will seriously affect the reception of signals on another frequency band. Therefore, in order to ensure normal communication, when the ML entity uses multiple links for communication at the same time, the ML entity needs to receive signals on multiple links at the same time, or send signals on multiple links at the same time. Figure 4 As shown, ML entity A sends PPDU on the first link and the second link simultaneously; thereafter, ML entity A receives block acknowledgment (BA) frames fed back by ML entity B on the first link and the second link simultaneously.

[0085] In the embodiment of the present application, the PPDUs sent simultaneously by the ML entity on different links may be the same or different.

[0086] In the embodiment of the present application, when the ML entity uses multiple links to communicate at the same time, the traffic identifiers (TIDs) corresponding to the multiple links may be the same or different.

[0087] If the STA in the ML entity is an AP, the ML entity can be called an ML AP entity. If the STA in the ML entity is a non-AP STA, the ML entity can be called an ML non-AP STA entity, or an ML non-AP entity. In the embodiments of the present application, unless otherwise specified, the ML entity can be either an ML AP entity or an ML non-AP entity.

[0088] A non-AP STA on a link in the ML non-AP entity may be associated with an AP on the same link in the ML AP entity, so that a non-AP STA on a link in the ML non-AP entity may communicate with an AP on the same link in the ML AP entity.

[0089] It should be understood that an association relationship may be established between the ML AP entity and the ML non-AP entity to ensure normal communication between the ML AP entity and the ML non-AP entity.

[0090] It should be noted that the association relationship between the ML AP entity and the ML non-AP entity includes: an association relationship between a station of the ML AP entity on a link and a station of the ML non-AP entity on the same link.

[0091] The embodiment of the present application does not limit the implementation method of establishing an association relationship between the ML non-AP entity and the ML AP entity. For example, the ML non-AP entity and the ML AP entity establish an association relationship on one link; or, the ML non-AP entity and the ML AP entity establish an association relationship between the ML non-AP entity and the ML AP entity on multiple links on one link.

[0092] The ML non-AP entity establishes an association relationship on a link with the ML AP entity. The specific implementation method thereof may refer to the implementation method of establishing an association relationship between an AP and a non-AP STA in the prior art, which will not be described in detail herein.

[0093] 7. SL Entity

[0094] The SL entity refers to a STA that supports only one link. The SL entity may be a legacy STA, that is, a STA that only supports the existing 802.11 standard but not the next generation 802.11 standard.

[0095] The above is a brief introduction to the technical terms involved in this application, which will not be repeated below.

[0096] The technical solution of the present application is applied to WLAN, and the standard adopted by WLAN may be IEEE 802.11 standard, such as 802.11ax standard, and the next generation 802.11 standard, etc. The technical solution of the present application is applicable to the following scenarios: communication scenarios between ML entities and ML entities, and communication scenarios between ML entities and SL entities.

[0097] Exemplarily, the communication scenario between ML entities may be: a communication scenario between an ML non-AP entity and an ML AP entity; or a communication scenario between an ML non-AP entity and an ML non-AP entity; or a communication scenario between an ML AP entity and an ML AP entity.

[0098] Exemplarily, the communication scenario between the ML entity and the SL entity may be: a communication scenario between the ML non-AP entity and a traditional AP; or, a communication scenario between the ML AP entity and a traditional non-AP STA; or, a communication scenario between the ML AP entity and a traditional AP; or, a communication scenario between the ML non-AP entity and a traditional non-AP STA.

[0099] The technical solution provided in the embodiments of the present application is described in detail below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0100] like Figure 5 As shown, a communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application comprises the following steps:

[0101] S101. The ML entity executes a backoff procedure of the primary link based on a backoff counter of the primary link.

[0102] The ML entity supports a master link and at least one slave link. A backoff counter is set on the master link, and no backoff counter is set on the slave link. It should be understood that since the backoff counter is only set on the master link, the ML entity can only perform the backoff process on the master link.

[0103] It should be understood that when the ML entity supports a main link and at least one slave link, the ML entity supports two channel access modes, one is a single-link channel access mode, that is, the ML entity performs channel access with the main link only; the other is a multi-link channel access mode, that is, the ML entity performs channel access with the main link and the slave link. In practical applications, the ML entity can select a channel access mode based on the channel conditions, power, business load, etc. For example, for the purpose of saving power, the ML entity adopts a single-link channel access mode; for the purpose of improving throughput, the ML entity adopts a multi-link channel access mode. The embodiments of the present application mainly introduce the multi-link channel access mode.

[0104] Optionally, the primary link of the ML entity may be configured in an explicit manner. It should be understood that configuring the primary link of the ML entity in an explicit manner has a high degree of flexibility.

[0105] Exemplarily, the ML AP entity may send indication information to its associated ML non-AP entity to indicate the information of the primary link. The information of the primary link may include: an identifier / index of the primary link, a frequency band corresponding to the primary link, and the like.

[0106] Optionally, the primary link of the ML entity may be configured in an implicit manner. It should be understood that configuring the primary link of the ML entity in an implicit manner is conducive to saving signaling overhead.

[0107] Exemplarily, the protocol may define a link corresponding to a specific frequency band as the main link. For example, the protocol defines a link corresponding to the 2.4 GHz frequency band as the main link.

[0108] Exemplarily, the protocol may define: among the multiple links supported by the ML entity, the link corresponding to the frequency band with the lowest frequency is the main link, or the link corresponding to the frequency band with the highest frequency is the main link. For example, the ML entity supports the 2.4 GHz frequency band, the 5 GHz frequency band, and the 6 GHz frequency band. In the case where the link corresponding to the frequency band with the lowest frequency is the main link, the ML entity uses the link corresponding to the 2.4 GHz frequency band as the main link. In the case where the link corresponding to the frequency band with the highest frequency is the main link, the ML entity uses the link corresponding to the 6 GHz frequency band as the main link.

[0109] In the embodiment of the present application, within the same BSS, the main link of the ML AP entity, the main link of the SL entity, and the main link of the ML non-SP entity are all the same link.

[0110] It can be understood that, for the ML entity, all links except the master link among the multiple links supported by the ML entity are slave links.

[0111] As an implementation manner, the ML entity waits for the idle time of the primary channel of the primary link to reach the second interframe interval. After the idle time of the primary channel of the primary link reaches the second interframe interval, each time the primary channel of the primary link is in an idle state in a time slot, the ML entity reduces the count value of the backoff counter by 1. When the count value of the backoff counter reaches 0, the ML entity ends the backoff process of the primary link.

[0112] It should be noted that if the primary channel of the primary link is in a busy state within a time slot, the ML entity freezes the backoff counter until the idle time of the primary channel reaches the second interframe interval again.

[0113] Optionally, the second inter-frame interval may be an AI FS, which is not limited in the embodiment of the present application.

[0114] Optionally, the above-mentioned main channel may refer to a main 20 MHz channel, but the embodiments of the present application are not limited thereto.

[0115] Optionally, the primary channel of the primary link may be configured in an explicit manner. It should be understood that configuring the primary channel of the primary link in an explicit manner has a high degree of flexibility.

[0116] Exemplarily, the ML entity may receive a MAC frame from other devices, the MAC frame being used to indicate the frequency domain position of the primary channel of the primary link in the frequency band corresponding to the primary link. Optionally, the MAC frame may be a management frame such as a beacon frame or an association response frame.

[0117] Optionally, the primary channel of the primary link may be configured in an implicit manner. It should be understood that configuring the primary channel of the primary link in an implicit manner is conducive to saving signaling overhead.

[0118] Exemplarily, the protocol may define a preset frequency domain position of a main channel of a main link in a frequency band corresponding to the main link. For example, a 20 MHz sub-channel with the highest frequency in a frequency band corresponding to the main link is used as the main channel. For another example, a 20 MHz sub-channel with the lowest frequency in a frequency band corresponding to the main link is used as the main channel.

[0119] S102: When the count value of the backoff counter is 0, the ML entity sends a first PPDU on each of the K first links.

[0120] The K first links include a master link and K-1 first slave links, and K is a positive integer.

[0121] In the embodiment of the present application, the first slave link is in an idle state in the first interframe interval before the count value of the backoff counter is reduced to 0. It should be understood that the moment when the count value of the backoff counter of the master link is reduced to 0 is equivalent to the end moment of the backoff process of the master link.

[0122] In other words, for any slave link, if a slave link is in an idle state within the first interframe interval before the end time of the backoff process of the master link, then the slave link is the first slave link; otherwise, the slave link is not the first slave link. Optionally, the first interframe interval is PI FS, and the embodiments of the present application are not limited thereto.

[0123] Optionally, the busy / idle state of the slave link can be determined by the busy / idle state of the master channel of the slave link. That is, if the master channel of the slave link is in a busy state, it means that the slave link is in a busy state. If the master channel of the slave link is in an idle state, it means that the slave link is in an idle state.

[0124] Optionally, the main channel of the slave link is a main 20 MHz channel, but the embodiments of the present application are not limited to this.

[0125] It should be understood that when the busy / idle state of the slave link is determined by the busy / idle state of the master channel of the slave link, the master channel of the first slave link is in an idle state in the first interframe interval before the count value of the backoff counter is reduced to 0.

[0126] Optionally, the master channel of the slave link may be configured in an explicit manner. It should be understood that configuring the master channel of the slave link in an explicit manner has a high degree of flexibility.

[0127] Exemplarily, the ML entity may receive a MAC frame from other devices, the MAC frame being used to indicate the frequency domain position of the master channel of the slave link in the frequency band corresponding to the slave link. Optionally, the MAC frame may be a management frame such as a beacon frame or an association response frame.

[0128] Optionally, the master channel of the slave link may be configured in an implicit manner. It should be understood that configuring the master channel of the slave link in an implicit manner is beneficial to saving signaling overhead.

[0129] Exemplarily, the protocol may define a preset frequency domain position of the main channel of the slave link in the frequency band corresponding to the slave link. For example, the 20 MHz sub-channel with the highest frequency in the frequency band corresponding to the slave link is used as the main channel of the slave link. For another example, the 20 MHz sub-channel with the lowest frequency in the frequency band corresponding to the slave link is used as the main channel of the slave link.

[0130] As an optional implementation, the ML entity sends the first PPDU on the first available channel of each of the K first links, wherein the first available channel of the master link includes the master channel of the master link, and the first available channel of the first slave link includes the master channel of the first slave link.

[0131] That is to say, for each of the K first links, before sending the first PPDU, the ML entity determines the first available bandwidth of the first link based on the idle status of each sub-channel in the frequency band corresponding to the first link and its own bandwidth requirements, so as to make full use of the bandwidth resources of the first link.

[0132] It should be noted that the first PPDU refers to the first PPDU sent by the ML entity on the first link. The first PPDU can be used to establish a TXOP.

[0133] It should be understood that the first PPDUs transmitted on different first links may be different. That is, the ML entity may send different first PPDUs on different first links.

[0134] Optionally, the first PPDU includes one of the following two situations:

[0135] Scenario 1: The first PPDU includes a first type MAC frame but does not include a second type MAC frame.

[0136] In the embodiment of the present application, the first type MAC frame does not require the receiving end to feed back a response frame. In other words, the first type MAC frame does not require a response.

[0137] Exemplarily, the first type of MAC frame is a CTS-to-self frame, but the embodiments of the present application are not limited to this.

[0138] In the embodiment of the present application, the second type MAC frame requires the receiving end to feed back a response frame. In other words, the second type MAC frame requires a response.

[0139] Exemplarily, the second type MAC frame may be an RTS frame. In the case where the second type MAC frame is an RTS frame, the response frame of the second type MAC frame is a CTS frame.

[0140] Exemplarily, the second type MAC frame may be a data frame. In the case where the second type MAC frame is a data frame, the response frame of the second type MAC frame is an acknowledgement (ACK) frame.

[0141] It should be understood that if the ML entity sends the first PPDU corresponding to scenario 1 on the primary link, the ML entity assumes that the TXOP is successfully established.

[0142] Scenario 2: The first PPDU includes a second-type MAC frame but does not include a first-type MAC frame.

[0143] Scenario three: the first PPDU includes a first type MAC frame and a second type MAC frame.

[0144] For scenario 2 or scenario 3, if the ML entity sends a first PPDU including a second type MAC frame on the primary link, if the ML entity receives a response frame of the second type MAC frame on the primary link, the ML entity determines that the TXOP is successfully established. If the ML entity does not receive a response frame of the second type MAC frame on the primary link, the ML entity determines that the TXOP is failed to be established.

[0145] In combination with various situations of the first PPDU, the following specifically introduces the scenario in which the ML entity sends the first PPDU on K first links.

[0146] Scenario 1: The ML entity sends a first PPDU including a first type MAC frame on K first links.

[0147] Scenario 2: The ML entity sends a first PPDU including a first type MAC frame on a master link and a portion of the first slave link, and sends a PPDU including a second type MAC frame on another portion of the first slave link.

[0148] Based on scenario one or scenario two, the ML entity assumes that the TXOP is established successfully.

[0149] Scenario three: the ML entity sends the first PPDU including the second type MAC frame on K first links.

[0150] Scenario 4: The ML entity sends a first PPDU including a second type MAC frame on a master link and a portion of the first slave link, and sends a PPDU including a first type MAC frame on another portion of the first slave link.

[0151] Based on scenario three or scenario four, the ML entity receives a response frame of the second type MAC frame on one or more first links. If the one or more first links do not include a primary link, the ML entity determines that the TXOP establishment fails. If the one or more first links include a primary link, the ML entity determines that the TXOP establishment succeeds.

[0152] In the embodiment of the present application, when the TXOP is successfully established, the maximum duration of the TXOP can be determined according to the duration field of the first PPDU transmitted on the primary link.

[0153] based on Figure 5 In the technical solution shown, since the ML entity only sets the backoff counter on the main link, the ML entity only performs the backoff process on the main link when accessing the channel. In this way, the ML entity cannot compete for the channel before the backoff process of the main link ends, thereby ensuring that the probability of the ML entity competing for the channel on the main channel is equal to the probability of the SL entity competing for the channel on the link it supports. Therefore, the technical solution provided by the present application can ensure the fairness of the SL entity in the channel competition, thereby ensuring that the SL entity can communicate normally.

[0154] In addition, based on Figure 5In the technical solution shown, when the link supported by the SL entity is the same link as the main link of the ML entity, the SL entity and the ML entity actually compete for channels on the same link. In this way, when the ML entity successfully competes for a channel on the main link, the SL entity will not send PPDU on the main link, thereby ensuring that the ML entity will not have the problem of asynchronous reception and transmission on multiple links. For example, taking link #1 as the main link, when the count value of the backoff counter of the ML AP entity on link #1 is 0, the ML AP entity sends PPDU on link #1 and link #2, and the SL entity will not send PPDU to the ML AP entity on link #1. As a result, the ML AP entity can synchronously receive signals on link #1 and link #2, or synchronously send signals.

[0155] As an optional embodiment, based on Figure 5 The communication method shown is as follows Figure 6 As shown, in the case where the ML entity successfully establishes a TXOP, the communication method further includes steps S103-S104.

[0156] S103. The ML entity determines N second links corresponding to the TXOP from the K first links.

[0157] The N second links include a main link and N-1 second slave links, and N is a positive integer less than or equal to K.

[0158] In the embodiment of the present application, the second slave link is the first slave link that meets the preset conditions.

[0159] Optionally, the preset condition includes one of the following:

[0160] Condition 1: The ML entity sends a first PPDU including a first type MAC frame on a first slave link.

[0161] Condition 2: The ML entity sends a first PPDU including a second type MAC frame on a first slave link, and receives a response frame of the second type MAC frame on the first slave link.

[0162] S104. The ML entity sends a second PPDU on each of the N second links respectively.

[0163] The second PPDU is different from the first PPDU. In other words, the second PPDU is a PPDU other than the first PPDU.

[0164] It should be understood that the second PPDU sent by the ML entity on the different second link may be a different PPDU to achieve an extremely high throughput rate.

[0165] In the embodiment of the present application, the ML entity sends a second PPDU on a second link; thereafter, if the ML entity does not receive a response frame on the second link within a certain period of time, it means that the second link fails to transmit the second PPDU. Exemplarily, the response frame may be a BA frame, but the embodiment of the present application is not limited thereto.

[0166] It should be understood that in the scenario where the transmission of the second PPDU fails on the second link, if the ML entity does not perform corresponding processing on the second link where the transmission of the second PPDU fails, but continues to send the second PPDU on the second link where the transmission of the second PPDU fails, the second PPDU sent by the ML may continue to fail to transmit, thereby affecting the normal communication of the ML entity.

[0167] The following describes a processing method adopted by the ML entity in a scenario where the transmission of the second PPDU fails on one or more second links.

[0168] Processing method 1: If the second PPDU is successfully transmitted on the primary link and the second PPDU is failed to be transmitted on one or more second slave links, the ML entity stops sending the second PPDU on the second link where the second PPDU transmission fails, and continues to send the second PPDU on the second link where the second PPDU transmission succeeds until the TXOP ends.

[0169] For example, the ML entity sends the second PPDU on slave link #1, slave link #2, slave link #3 and the main link respectively. If the transmission of the second PPDU on slave link #2 fails, the ML entity stops sending the second PPDU on slave link #2 and continues to send the second PPDU on slave link #1, slave link #3 and the main link.

[0170] Processing method 2: If the transmission of the second PPDU on one or more second links fails, the ML entity stops sending the second PPDU on the N second links. After that, the ML entity waits for the idle time of the main link to reach the first interframe interval. When the idle time of the main link reaches the first interframe interval, the ML entity sends the second PPDU on each of the P third links.

[0171] The P third links include a main link and P-1 third slave links, and P is a positive integer less than or equal to N. The third slave link is a second slave link that is idle in a first interframe interval before a first moment, and the first moment is the moment when the idle time of the main link reaches the first interframe interval.

[0172] Combination Figure 7For example, the ML entity sends the second PPDU#1 on the slave link #1, the slave link #2 and the main link respectively. Since the ML entity does not receive the BA frame on the slave link #1, the ML entity determines that the transmission of the second PPDU#1 from the slave link #1 fails. In this case, the ML entity suspends sending the second PPDU on the slave link #1, the slave link #2 and the main link. After one PI FS, since the slave link #1 and the main link are in an idle state within the PI FS, the slave link #2 is in a busy state. Therefore, the ML entity can determine that the slave link #1 and the main link are the third link. In this case, the ML entity sends the second PPDU#2 on the slave link #1 and the main link respectively, and the ML entity does not send the second PPDU#2 on the slave link #2.

[0173] Processing method 3: If the transmission of the second PPDU on one or more second links fails, the ML entity stops sending the second PPDU on the N second links. After that, the ML entity performs a backoff process on the main link. When the backoff process of the main link ends, the ML entity sends the second PPDU on each of the P third links.

[0174] The P third links include a master link and P-1 third slave links, and P is a positive integer less than or equal to N. The third slave link is a second slave link that is idle in the first interframe interval before the end time of the backoff process of the master link.

[0175] It should be understood that the ML entity performs the backoff process on the primary link, and reference may be made to the description of step S101 above, which will not be repeated here.

[0176] Combination Figure 8 To illustrate, the ML entity sends the second PPDU#1 on slave link #1, slave link #2, and the main link, respectively. Since the ML entity does not receive a BA frame on slave link #1, the ML entity determines that the transmission of the second PPDU#1 from slave link #1 fails. In this case, the ML entity suspends sending the second PPDU on slave link #1, slave link #2, and the main link. The ML entity sets the count value of the backoff counter of the main link. Within the PI FS before the backoff counter of the main link is reduced to 0, slave link #1 and the main link are in an idle state, and slave link #2 is in a busy state. Therefore, the ML entity can determine that slave link #1 and the main link are the third link. In this case, the ML entity sends the second PPDU#2 on slave link #1 and the main link, respectively, and the ML entity does not send the second PPDU#2 on slave link #2.

[0177] It should be understood that in the above processing mode 2 or processing mode 3, for each of the P third links, the ML entity sends the second PPDU on the third link, including: the ML entity sends the second PPDU on the second available channel on the third link. For one link, the second available channel is a subset of the first available channel. The second available channel also includes the primary channel.

[0178] It should be understood that in the above-mentioned processing method 2 or processing method 3, the failure to transmit the second PPDU on one or more second links specifically refers to: the failure to transmit the second PPDU on the main link, and / or the failure to transmit the second PPDU on one or more second slave links.

[0179] Based on any one of the above processing methods, in the scenario where the transmission of the second PPDU fails on one or more second links, the ML entity can ensure normal communication.

[0180] As shown in FIG. 9( a ), a communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application includes the following steps:

[0181] S201. The ML entity executes a backoff process on each of K first links respectively.

[0182] The ML entity supports K first links, where K is a positive integer greater than or equal to 2. Each of the K first links is provided with a backoff counter.

[0183] For each of the K first links, the backoff procedure of the first link includes the following steps: the ML entity waits for the idle time of the first link to reach the second interframe interval. After the idle time of the first link reaches the second interframe interval, whenever the first link is in an idle state within a time slot, the ML entity reduces the count value of the backoff counter of the first link by 1. When the count value of the backoff counter of the first link reaches 0, the ML entity ends the backoff procedure of the first link.

[0184] In the embodiment of the present application, if the first link is in a busy state in a time slot, the ML entity freezes the backoff counter of the first link until the idle time of the first link reaches the second interframe interval again. It should be understood that the backoff counter of the first link is frozen, which is equivalent to the backoff process of the first link being suspended.

[0185] The second inter-frame interval may be an AI FS, which is not limited in the embodiment of the present application.

[0186] The busy / idle state of the first link can be determined by the busy / idle state of the primary channel of the first link. In other words, if the primary channel of the first link is in a busy state, it means that the first link is in a busy state. If the primary channel of the first link is in an idle state, it means that the first link is in an idle state.

[0187] Optionally, the main channel of the first link may refer to a main 20 MHz channel.

[0188] Optionally, the primary channel of the first link may be configured in an explicit manner. It should be understood that configuring the primary channel of the first link in an explicit manner has a high degree of flexibility.

[0189] Exemplarily, the ML entity may receive a MAC frame from another device, the MAC frame being used to indicate the frequency domain position of the primary channel of the first link in the frequency band corresponding to the first link. Optionally, the MAC frame may be a management frame such as a beacon frame or an association response frame.

[0190] Optionally, the primary channel of the first link may be configured in an implicit manner. It should be understood that configuring the primary channel of the first link in an implicit manner is conducive to saving signaling overhead.

[0191] Exemplarily, the protocol may define a preset frequency domain position of the main channel of the first link in the frequency band corresponding to the first link. For example, the 20 MHz sub-channel with the highest frequency in the frequency band corresponding to the first link is used as the main channel of the first link. For another example, the 20 MHz sub-channel with the lowest frequency in the frequency band corresponding to the first link is used as the main channel of the first link.

[0192] In the embodiment of the present application, when the ML entity executes the backoff procedures of the K first links respectively, if the backoff procedure of a certain link ends first, the ML entity executes step S202.

[0193] S202: When the backoff process of the target link ends, the ML entity sends a first PPDU on each of the N second links.

[0194] The target link is the first link among the K first links that terminates the backoff process, that is, the target link is the first link among the K first links whose count value of the backoff counter is reduced to 0.

[0195] The N second links include the target link and N-1 available links, where N is a positive integer less than or equal to K.

[0196] In the embodiment of the present application, the available link is the first link in an idle state in the first interframe interval before the end time of the backoff process of the target link. In other words, the available link is the first link in which the main channel is in an idle state in the first interframe interval before the end time of the backoff process of the target link.

[0197] It should be understood that if a first link (or a primary channel of the first link) is in a busy state within the first interframe interval before the end time of the backoff procedure of the target link, the first link is not an available link.

[0198] In the embodiment of the present application, after the backoff process of the target link ends, the ML entity stops the backoff processes of the other first links among the K first links except the target link until the TXOP ends.

[0199] It should be understood that the first PPDUs transmitted on different second links may be different, that is, the ML entity may send different first PPDUs on different second links.

[0200] S203: If the transmission of the first PPDU fails on one or more second links, the ML entity does not send the second PPDU on the second link on which the transmission of the first PPDU fails within a preset time.

[0201] The second PPDU and the first PPDU are two different PPDUs. In other words, the second PPDU is a PPDU other than the first PPDU.

[0202] Exemplarily, the failure to transmit the first PPDU on the second link may mean that the ML entity does not receive a response frame corresponding to the first PPDU on the second link. It should be understood that the response frame corresponding to the first PPDU is used to respond to the MAC frame carried in the first PPDU. Exemplarily, if the first PPDU carries an RTS frame, the response frame of the first PPDU may be a CTS frame.

[0203] Optionally, the preset time may be pre-configured or defined in a protocol, but the embodiments of the present application are not limited thereto.

[0204] For example, the ML entity transmits a first PPDU on link #1, link #3, and link #4 respectively. If the ML entity does not receive a response frame corresponding to the first PPDU on link #1, the ML entity can determine that the transmission of the first PPDU on link #1 fails. Therefore, the ML entity does not send a second PPDU on link #1 within a preset time.

[0205] Optionally, as shown in FIG9( b ), step S203 in FIG9( a ) may be replaced by step S204 .

[0206] S204: If the transmission of the first PPDU on one or more second links fails, the ML entity does not send the second PPDU on the N second links within a preset time.

[0207] For example, the ML entity transmits a first PPDU on link #1, link #3, and link #4 respectively. If the ML entity does not receive a response frame corresponding to the first PPDU on link #1, the ML entity can determine that the transmission of the first PPDU on link #1 fails. Therefore, the ML entity does not send a second PPDU on link #1, link #3, and link #4 within a preset time.

[0208] Based on the technical solution shown in FIG. 9(a) or FIG. 9(b), when the ML entity fails to transmit the first PPDU on one or more second links, the ML entity is prohibited from sending the second PPDU on the second link on which the first PPDU transmission failed within a preset time, or the ML entity is prohibited from sending the second PPDU on N second links within a preset time. In this way, within the preset time, the ML entity cannot use multiple links (for example, the second link on which the first PPDU transmission failed or N second links). If one of the multiple links that the ML entity cannot use is supported by the SL entity, then within the preset time, since the ML entity cannot compete for the channel on the link supported by the SL entity, the probability of the SL entity competing for the channel increases, thereby ensuring the fairness of the SL entity in the channel competition and ensuring the normal communication of the SL entity.

[0209] like Fig.10 As shown, a communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application comprises the following steps:

[0210] S301: The ML entity executes a backoff process on each of K first links.

[0211] The ML entity supports K first links, where K is an integer greater than or equal to 2. Each of the K first links is provided with a backoff counter.

[0212] For each of the K first links, the backoff procedure of the first link includes the following steps: the ML entity waits for the idle time of the first link to reach the second interframe interval. After the idle time of the first link reaches the second interframe interval, whenever the first link is in an idle state within a time slot, the ML entity reduces the count value of the backoff counter of the first link by 1. When the count value of the backoff counter of the first link reaches 0, the ML entity ends the backoff procedure of the first link.

[0213] In the embodiment of the present application, if the first link is in a busy state in a time slot, the ML entity freezes the backoff counter of the first link until the idle time of the first link reaches the second interframe interval again. It should be understood that the backoff counter of the first link is frozen, which is equivalent to the backoff process of the first link being suspended.

[0214] The second inter-frame interval may be an AI FS, which is not limited in the embodiment of the present application.

[0215] The busy / idle state of the first link can be determined by the busy / idle state of the primary channel of the first link. In other words, if the primary channel of the first link is in a busy state, it means that the first link is in a busy state. If the primary channel of the first link is in an idle state, it means that the first link is in an idle state.

[0216] Optionally, the primary channel may refer to a primary 20 MHz channel. For each first link, the configuration method of the primary channel of the first link may refer to the above, which will not be described in detail here.

[0217] S302: The ML entity sends a first PPDU on each of the N second links.

[0218] The N second links are a subset of the K first links, and N is a positive integer less than or equal to K.

[0219] In the embodiment of the present application, the second link is a first link whose backoff process has ended and which is in an idle state within a first interframe interval before a first moment.

[0220] In other words, if the backoff process of a first link is not completed before the first moment, the first link is not the second link. Alternatively, if a first link is in a busy state in the first interframe interval before the first moment, the first link is not the second link.

[0221] For example, the ML entity performs backoff procedures on link #1, link #2, link #3, and link #4, respectively. Before a first moment, the backoff procedure of link #1 has ended, the backoff procedure of link #2 has ended, and the backoff procedure of link #4 has ended. Moreover, in a first interframe interval before the first moment, link #1 is in an idle state, link #2 is in a busy state, and link #4 is in an idle state. Therefore, the ML entity can determine that link #1 and link #4 are second links.

[0222] Optionally, the first moment may be preconfigured or defined in a protocol.

[0223] Optionally, the first moment may be the end moment of the backoff procedure of the target link.

[0224] Exemplarily, the target link may be the last second link among the N second links that ends the backoff process.

[0225] Exemplarily, the target link may be the kth first link among K first links that ends the backoff process, where k is an integer greater than 1 and less than or equal to K.

[0226] It should be understood that the first PPDUs transmitted on different second links may be different, that is, the ML entity may send different first PPDUs on different second links.

[0227] based on Fig.10 In the technical solution shown, although the ML executes the backoff process on the K first links, the second link used to send the first PPDU needs to meet the condition that the backoff process has ended. In other words, on a link, the ML entity must at least end the backoff on the link before it can compete for the channel. Compared with the prior art in which the ML entity can compete for the channel even if the backoff process is not completed on a link, the technical solution of the present application reduces the probability of the ML entity competing for the channel on a link, thereby ensuring the fairness of the SL entity in channel competition, and further ensuring that the SL entity can communicate normally.

[0228] As shown in FIG. 11( a ), a communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application includes the following steps:

[0229] S401: The ML entity executes a backoff process on each of K first links.

[0230] The ML entity supports K first links, where K is an integer greater than or equal to 2. Each of the K first links is provided with a backoff counter.

[0231] For each of the K first links, the backoff procedure on the first link includes the following steps: the ML entity waits for the idle time of the first link to reach the second interframe interval. After the idle time of the first link reaches the second interframe interval, whenever the first link is in an idle state within a time slot, the ML entity reduces the count value of the backoff counter of the first link by 1.

[0232] The second inter-frame interval may be an AI FS, which is not limited in the embodiment of the present application.

[0233] In the embodiment of the present application, the value range of the backoff counter of the first link includes negative integers. That is, after the ML entity reduces the count value of the backoff counter of the first link to 0, the ML entity does not end the backoff process of the first link, but continues to back off.

[0234] For example, the initial value of the backoff counter of link #1 is 5. After the idle time of link #1 reaches the second interframe interval, link #1 is in an idle state for 6 consecutive time slots, and the count value of the backoff counter of link #1 may be -1.

[0235] In the embodiment of the present application, if the first link is in a busy state in a time slot, the ML entity freezes the backoff counter of the first link until the idle time of the first link reaches the second interframe interval again. It should be understood that the backoff counter of the first link is frozen, which is equivalent to the backoff process of the first link being suspended.

[0236] The busy / idle state of the first link can be determined by the busy / idle state of the primary channel of the first link. In other words, if the primary channel of the first link is in a busy state, it means that the first link is in a busy state. If the primary channel of the first link is in an idle state, it means that the first link is in an idle state.

[0237] Optionally, the primary channel may refer to a primary 20 MHz channel. For each first link, the configuration method of the primary channel of the first link may refer to the above, which will not be described in detail here.

[0238] S402: When the sum of the count values ​​of the backoff counters of the K first links is less than or equal to 0, the ML entity sends a first PPDU on each of the N second links.

[0239] The N second links are a subset of the K first links, and N is a positive integer less than or equal to K.

[0240] In the embodiment of the present application, the second link is the first link that is in an idle state in the second interframe interval before the current moment. In other words, the second link is the first link whose backoff counter is not frozen. In other words, the second link is the first link whose backoff process is not suspended.

[0241] In step S402, the current time refers to the time when the sum of the count values ​​of the backoff counters of the K first links is less than or equal to 0.

[0242] Optionally, in a time slot, the ML entity may count the sum of count values ​​of the backoff counters of the K first links to determine whether the sum of count values ​​of the backoff counters of the K first links is less than or equal to zero.

[0243] Optionally, the ML entity is further configured with a target counter, which is used to record the count values ​​of the backoff counters of the K first links. In this way, in a time slot, the ML can determine whether the sum of the count values ​​of the backoff counters of the K first links is less than or equal to 0 by determining whether the sum of the count values ​​of the target counter is less than or equal to 0.

[0244] In a specific implementation, the ML entity configures a target counter, and an initial value of the target counter is equal to the sum of initial values ​​of backoff counters of the K first links. For each of the K first links, after the idle time of the first link reaches the second interframe interval, whenever the primary channel of the first link is in an idle state in a time slot, the ML entity decrements the count value of the target counter by 1. That is, whenever the ML entity decrements the backoff counter of a first link by 1, the ML entity decrements the count value of the target counter by 1.

[0245] Optionally, as shown in FIG11( b ), step S402 in FIG11( a ) may be replaced by step S403 .

[0246] S403: When the sum of the count values ​​of the backoff counters of the N second links is less than or equal to 0, the ML entity sends a first PPDU on each of the N second links respectively.

[0247] In the embodiment of the present application, the second link is the first link that is in an idle state in the second interframe interval before the current moment. In other words, the second link is the first link whose backoff counter is not frozen. In other words, the second link is the first link whose backoff process is not suspended.

[0248] In step S403, the current time refers to the time when the sum of the count values ​​of the backoff counters of the N second links is less than or equal to 0.

[0249] Optionally, in a time slot, the ML entity may count the sum of count values ​​of the backoff counters of the N second links to determine whether the sum of count values ​​of the backoff counters of the N second links is less than or equal to zero.

[0250] It should be understood that in step S403 or step S402, the first PPDUs transmitted on different second links may be different, that is, the ML entity may send different first PPDUs on different second links.

[0251] Based on the technical solution shown in Figure 11(a) or Figure 11(b), although the ML entity executes the backoff process on each of the K first links, the ML entity can only successfully compete for the channel under the condition that the sum of the count values ​​of the backoff counters of the K first links is less than or equal to 0, or the sum of the count values ​​of the backoff counters of the N second links is less than or equal to 0. In other words, the count value of the backoff counter of the ML entity on one or more first links needs to be less than 0. This requires that one or more first links be idle for a longer period of time, resulting in a lower probability for the ML entity to compete for the channel. The lower probability of the ML entity competing for the channel weakens the advantage of the ML entity over the SL entity in channel competition, ensures the fairness of the SL entity in channel competition, and thus ensures that the SL entity can communicate normally.

[0252] like Fig.12 As shown, a communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application comprises the following steps:

[0253] S501: The ML entity executes a backoff procedure on a first link.

[0254] Among them, the ML entity supports multiple links.

[0255] In the embodiment of the present application, a backoff counter may be set for each of the multiple links. However, each time the ML entity initiates channel access of multiple links, the ML entity only uses the backoff counter of one of the links (ie, the first link) to perform backoff.

[0256] Optionally, one of the multiple links is randomly selected as the first link, or the multiple links are selected as the first link in turn according to a preset cyclic order.

[0257] Optionally, the above-mentioned cyclic order can be: the order of arrangement of the sequence numbers of multiple links from large to small, or the order of arrangement of the sequence numbers of multiple links from small to large, or the pseudo-random order of the sequence numbers of multiple links. The embodiments of the present application are not limited thereto.

[0258] For example, the ML entity supports 7 links, and the sequence numbers of the 7 links are 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. The preset cyclic sequence is "01204465", and each number in the cyclic sequence is the sequence number of the link. In this way, when the ML entity accesses the channel for the first time, the link with sequence number 0 is used as the first link. When the ML entity accesses the channel for the second time, the link with sequence number 1 is used as the first link. Similarly, when the ML entity accesses the channel for the tenth time, the link with sequence number 1 is used as the first link.

[0259] It should be understood that different ML entities may be set with different loop orders, which is not limited in this application.

[0260] In an embodiment of the present application, the ML entity performs a backoff procedure on the first link, including the following steps: the ML entity waits for the idle time of the first link to reach the second interframe interval. After the idle time of the first link reaches the second interframe interval, each time the first link is in an idle state within a time slot, the ML entity reduces the count value of the backoff counter of the first link by 1. When the count value of the backoff counter of the first link reaches 0, the ML entity ends the backoff procedure of the first link.

[0261] In the embodiment of the present application, if the first link is in a busy state in a time slot, the ML entity freezes the backoff counter of the first link until the idle time of the first link reaches the second interframe interval again. It should be understood that the backoff counter of the first link is frozen, which is equivalent to the backoff process of the first link being suspended.

[0262] The second inter-frame interval may be an AI FS, which is not limited in the embodiment of the present application.

[0263] The busy / idle state of the first link can be determined by the busy / idle state of the primary channel of the first link. That is, if the primary channel of the first link is in a busy state, it means that the first link is in a busy state. If the primary channel of the first link is in an idle state, it means that the first link is in an idle state.

[0264] Optionally, the primary channel of the first link may refer to a primary 20 MHz channel. The configuration method of the primary channel of the first link may refer to the above, and will not be described in detail here.

[0265] S502: When the backoff process of the first link ends, the ML entity sends a first PPDU on each of the N second links.

[0266] The N available links include a first link and N-1 second links, and N is a positive integer.

[0267] It should be understood that the second link and the first link are two different links. The second link is in an idle state within a first interframe interval before the end time of the backoff process of the first link.

[0268] It should be understood that the first PPDUs transmitted on different second links may be different, that is, the ML entity may send different first PPDUs on different second links.

[0269] based on Fig.12In the technical solution shown, each time a channel access is performed, the ML entity only performs the backoff process on the first link. That is, the ML entity only competes for the channel on one link. The probability of the ML entity competing for the channel on one link is equal to the probability of the SL entity competing for the channel on one link. In this way, the fairness of the SL entity in the channel competition is guaranteed, thereby ensuring that the SL entity can communicate normally.

[0270] In the above-mentioned FIG. 9(a), FIG. 9(b), Fig.10 , Figure 11(a), Figure 11(b) or Fig.12 In the technical solution shown, the first PPDU may include the following two situations:

[0271] Scenario 1: The first PPDU includes a first type MAC frame but does not include a second type MAC frame.

[0272] Scenario 2: The first PPDU includes a second-type MAC frame but does not include a first-type MAC frame.

[0273] Scenario three: the first PPDU includes a first type MAC frame and a second type MAC frame.

[0274] Among them, the detailed description of the first type MAC frame and the second type MAC frame can be referred to the introduction in step S102, which will not be repeated here.

[0275] In combination with various situations of the first PPDU, the following specifically introduces the scenario in which the ML entity sends the first PPDU on N second links.

[0276] Scenario 1: The ML entity sends a first PPDU containing only a first type MAC frame on N second links.

[0277] Scenario 2: The ML entity sends a first PPDU containing only a first type MAC frame on a part of the second link, and sends a first PPDU containing a second type MAC frame on another part of the second link.

[0278] Based on scenario 1 or scenario 2, the ML entity assumes that the TXOP is established successfully.

[0279] Scenario three: the ML entity sends a first PPDU including a second type MAC frame on N second links.

[0280] Based on scenario three, if the ML entity does not receive a response frame of the second type MAC frame on any second link, the ML entity confirms that the TXOP establishment has failed. If the ML entity receives a response frame of the second type MAC frame on at least one second link, the ML entity confirms that the TXOP establishment has succeeded.

[0281] As an optional embodiment, based on Figures 10 to 12 The technical solution shown, such as Fig.13 As shown, in the case where the ML entity successfully establishes a TXOP, the communication method further includes the following steps S601-S602.

[0282] S601. The ML entity determines P third links corresponding to a TXOP from N second links.

[0283] The P third links are a subset of the N second links, and P is a positive integer less than or equal to N.

[0284] In the embodiment of the present application, the third link is the second link that meets the preset conditions.

[0285] Optionally, the preset condition includes one of the following:

[0286] Condition 1: The ML entity sends a first PPDU including a first type MAC frame on the second link.

[0287] Condition 2: The ML entity sends a first PPDU including a second type MAC frame on the second link, and receives a response frame of the second type MAC frame on the second link.

[0288] S602: The ML entity sends a second PPDU on each of the P third links respectively.

[0289] It should be understood that the second PPDUs transmitted on different third links may be different, that is, the ML entity may send different second PPDUs on different third links.

[0290] Optionally, when the transmission of the PPDU fails on one or more third links, the ML entity may adopt any one of the following processing methods.

[0291] Processing method 1: The ML entity stops sending the second PPDU on the third link where the transmission of the second PPDU fails, and continues to send the second PPDU on the third link where the transmission of the second PPDU succeeds, until the TXOP ends.

[0292] Processing method 2: the ML entity stops sending the second PPDU on the P third links, waits until a preset time to determine the L fourth links, and sends the second PPDU on each of the L fourth links.

[0293] The L fourth links are a subset of the P third links, and L is a positive integer less than or equal to P. The fourth link is a third link that is in an idle state in the first interframe interval before the preset time.

[0294] It should be understood that the preset time may be pre-configured or defined in the protocol.

[0295] Processing method 3: The ML entity stops sending the second PPDU on the P third links. The ML entity performs the backoff process on the P third links respectively. When the backoff process of the target third link ends, the ML entity determines L fourth links. And, the ML entity sends the second PPDU on each of the L fourth links respectively.

[0296] The L fourth links are a subset of the P third links, and L is a positive integer less than or equal to P. The fourth link is a third link that is in an idle state within the first interframe interval before the backoff process of the target third link ends. The target third link may be the first third link among the P third links that ends the backoff process.

[0297] Based on any one of the above processing methods, in the scenario where the transmission of the second PPDU fails on one or more third links, the ML entity can ensure normal communication.

[0298] The above mainly introduces the solution provided by the embodiment of the present application from the perspective of the ML entity. It is understandable that, in order to realize the above functions, the ML entity includes a hardware structure and / or software module corresponding to each function. Those skilled in the art should easily realize that, in combination with the units and algorithm steps of each example described in the embodiments disclosed herein, the present application can be implemented in the form of hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a function is executed in the form of hardware or computer software driving hardware depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Professional and technical personnel can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered to exceed the scope of the present application.

[0299] The embodiment of the present application can divide the functional modules of the device according to the above method example. For example, each functional module can be divided corresponding to each function, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing module. The above integrated modules can be implemented in the form of hardware or in the form of software functional modules. It should be noted that the division of modules in the embodiment of the present application is schematic and is only a logical function division. There may be other division methods in actual implementation. The following is an example of dividing each functional module corresponding to each function:

[0300] Fig.14 A schematic diagram of the structure of an ML entity provided in an embodiment of the present application. Fig.14 As shown, the ML entity includes a processing unit 101 and a communication unit 102 .

[0301] Optionally, the ML entity can perform any of the following:

[0302] Solution 1

[0303] The ML entity supports a main link and at least one slave link, a backoff counter is set on the main link, and no backoff counter is set on the slave link. The processing unit 101 is used for the ML entity to execute the backoff process of the main link based on the backoff counter. The communication unit 102 is used for, when the count value of the backoff counter is reduced to 0, the ML entity sends a first PPDU on each of the K first links respectively, the K first links include the main link and K-1 first slave links, the first slave link is in an idle state in the first interframe interval before the count value of the backoff counter is reduced to 0, and K is a positive integer.

[0304] In one possible design, the communication unit 102 is specifically used to send the first PPDU on the available channels of each of the K first links, respectively, where the available channels of the main link include the main channel of the main link, and the available channels of the first slave link include the main channel of the first slave link.

[0305] In one possible design, the processing unit 101 is specifically used to wait for the idle time of the main channel of the main link to reach the second inter-frame interval; after the idle time of the main channel of the main link reaches the second inter-frame interval, each time the main channel of the main link is in an idle state in a time slot, the count value of the backoff counter is reduced by 1; when the count value of the backoff counter is reduced to 0, the backoff process of the main link is ended.

[0306] In one possible design, the first slave link is in an idle state within the first inter-frame interval before the end moment of the backoff process of the main link, including: the main channel of the first slave link is in an idle state within the first inter-frame interval before the count value of the backoff counter is reduced to 0.

[0307] In one possible design, the main channel of the first slave link is the 20 MHz sub-channel with the lowest frequency in the frequency band corresponding to the first slave link; or, the main channel of the first slave link is the 20 MHz sub-channel with the highest frequency in the frequency band corresponding to the first slave link.

[0308] In one possible design, the first PPDU includes: a first type MAC frame, and the first type MAC frame does not require a response.

[0309] In one possible design, the first PPDU includes: a second type MAC frame, and the second type MAC frame requires a response. The communication unit 102 is further configured to receive a response frame to the second type MAC frame on one or more first links. The processing unit 101 is further configured to determine that the TXOP establishment fails when the one or more first links do not include a main link; and determine that the TXOP establishment is successful when the one or more first links include a main link.

[0310] In a possible design, the processing unit 101 is further used to determine N second links corresponding to the TXOP, the N second links include a main link and N-1 second slave links, the second slave link is a first slave link that meets a preset condition, and the preset condition includes: the ML entity sends a first PPDU including a first type of MAC frame on the first slave link; or, the ML entity sends a first PPDU including a second type of MAC frame on the first slave link, and receives a response frame of the second type of MAC frame on the first slave link. The communication unit 102 is also used to send a second PPDU on each of the N second links.

[0311] In one possible design, the communication unit 102 is also used to stop sending the second PPDU on the second link where the transmission of the second PPDU fails, and continue sending the second PPDU on the second link where the transmission of the second PPDU succeeds, until the TXOP ends.

[0312] In one possible design, the communication unit 102 is further used to stop sending the second PPDU on the N second links if the transmission of the second PPDU on one or more second links fails. The processing unit 101 is further used to wait for the idle time of the main link to reach the first interframe interval. The communication unit 102 is also used to send the second PPDU on each of the P third links after the idle time of the main link reaches the first interframe interval, the P third links include the main link and P-1 third slave links, the third slave links are second slave links that are idle in the first interframe interval before the first moment, the first moment is the moment when the idle time of the main link reaches the first interframe interval, and P is a positive integer less than or equal to N.

[0313] In one possible design, the communication unit 102 is further used to stop sending the second PPDU on the N second links if the transmission of the second PPDU on one or more second links fails. The processing unit 101 is further used to execute the backoff process on the main link. The communication unit 102 is also used to send the second PPDU on each of the P third links after the backoff process of the main link ends, the P third links include the main link and P-1 third slave links, the third slave links are second slave links that are in an idle state within the first interframe interval before the end time of the backoff process of the main link, and P is a positive integer less than or equal to N.

[0314] Solution 2

[0315] The ML entity supports K first links. The processing unit 101 is used to execute the backoff process on each of the K first links respectively, where K is a positive integer greater than or equal to 2. The communication unit 102 is used to send a first PPDU on each of the N second links when the backoff process of the target link ends, the second link is a first link that is in an idle state within the first interframe interval before the end time of the backoff process of the target link, and the target link is the first first link among the K first links to end the backoff process, and N is a positive integer less than or equal to K. The communication unit 102 is also used to not send a second PPDU on the second link where the transmission of the first PPDU fails within a preset time, or not send a second PPDU on the N second links within a preset time if the transmission of the first PPDU fails on one or more second links.

[0316] Option 3

[0317] The ML entity supports K first links. The processing unit 101 is configured to execute a backoff procedure on each of the K first links, where K is a positive integer greater than or equal to 2. The communication unit 102 is configured to send a first PPDU on each of the N second links, where the backoff procedure has ended and the second link is a first link in an idle state within a first interframe interval before a first moment, where N is a positive integer less than or equal to M.

[0318] In one possible design, the first moment is the end moment of the backoff process of the target link, and the target link is the last second link among the N second links to end the backoff process.

[0319] Option 4

[0320] The ML entity supports K first links. The processing unit 101 is configured to perform a backoff procedure on each of the K first links, where K is a positive integer greater than or equal to 2. The communication unit 102 is configured to send a first PPDU on each of the N second links when the sum of the count values ​​of the backoff counters of the K first links is less than or equal to 0, or the sum of the count values ​​of the backoff counters of the N second links is less than or equal to 0, respectively, where the second link is a first link that is in an idle state within a second interframe interval before a current moment, and N is a positive integer less than or equal to M.

[0321] In one possible design, the processing unit 101 is specifically used to wait for the idle time of each of the K first links to reach the second inter-frame interval; after the idle time of the first link reaches the second inter-frame interval, each time the first link is in an idle state in a time slot, the count value of the backoff counter of the first link is reduced by 1.

[0322] In one possible design, the count value of the backoff counter of the first link includes a negative integer.

[0323] In one possible design, the processing unit 101 is also used to, for each of the K first links, after the idle time of the first link reaches the second inter-frame interval, whenever the first link is in an idle state in a time slot, reduce the count value of the target counter by 1, and the target counter is used to record the sum of the count values ​​of the backoff counters of the K first links.

[0324] Option 5

[0325] The ML entity supports multiple links, and the multiple links take turns as the first link in a preset cyclic order. The processing unit 101 is used to perform a backoff process on the first link. The communication unit 102 is used to send a first PPDU on each of the N second links after the backoff process of the first link ends, the N second links include the first link and N-1 available links, and the available links are in an idle state within a first interframe interval before the end time of the backoff process of the first link, and N is a positive integer.

[0326] The ML entity provided in the above embodiment of the present application can be implemented in a variety of product forms. For example, the ML entity can be configured as a general processing system; for another example, the ML entity can be implemented by a general bus architecture; for another example, the ML entity can be implemented by an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), etc. The following provides several possible product forms of the ML entity described in the embodiment of the present application. It should be understood that the following product forms are only examples and do not limit the possible product forms of the ML entity described in the embodiment of the present application.

[0327] Fig.15 It is a result diagram of possible product forms of the ML entity described in the embodiment of the present application.

[0328] As a possible product form, the ML entity described in the embodiment of the present application may be a communication device, and the communication device includes a processor 201 and a transceiver 202. Optionally, the communication device further includes a storage medium 203.

[0329] The processor 201 is used to execute Figure 5 In step S101, Figure 6 Step S103 in FIG. 9( a ), Step S201 in FIG. 9( a ), Fig.10 Step S301 in FIG. 11( a ), Step S401 in FIG. 11( a ), Fig.12 Step S501 in Fig.13 The transceiver 202 is used to perform step S601. Figure 5 In step S102, Figure 6 Step S104 in FIG. 9( a ), Steps S202 and S203 in FIG. 9( b ), Step S204 in FIG. 9( b ), Fig.10 Step S302 in FIG. 11( a ), step S402 in FIG. 11( b ), Fig.12 In step S502, Fig.13 Step S602 in .

[0330] As another possible product form, the ML entity described in the embodiment of the present application can also be implemented by a general-purpose processor or a dedicated processor, that is, a so-called chip. The chip includes: a processing circuit 201 and a transceiver pin 202. Optionally, the chip can also include a storage medium 203.

[0331] The processing circuit 201 is used to execute Figure 5 In step S101, Figure 6 Step S103 in FIG. 9( a ), Step S201 in FIG. 9( a ), Fig.10Step S301 in FIG. 11( a ), Step S401 in FIG. 11( a ), Fig.12 Step S501 in Fig.13 Step S601 in the above. The transceiver pin 202 is used to perform Figure 5 In step S102, Figure 6 Step S104 in FIG. 9( a ), Steps S202 and S203 in FIG. 9( b ), Step S204 in FIG. 9( b ), Fig.10 Step S302 in FIG. 11( a ), step S402 in FIG. 11( b ), Fig.12 In step S502, Fig.13 Step S602 in .

[0332] The embodiment of the present application further provides a computer-readable storage medium, wherein the computer-readable storage medium stores computer instructions; when the computer-readable storage medium is run on an ML entity, the ML entity executes the following Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 9(a), Figure 9(b), Fig.10 , Figure 11(a), Figure 11(b), Fig.12 or Fig.13 The method shown. The computer instructions may be stored in a computer-readable storage medium, or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another computer-readable storage medium. For example, the computer instructions may be transmitted from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center by wired (e.g., coaxial cable, optical fiber, digital subscriber line (DSL)) or wireless (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means. The computer-readable storage medium may be any available medium that can be accessed by a computer or a data storage device such as a server, data center, etc. that includes one or more available media integrated therein. The available medium may be a magnetic medium (e.g., a floppy disk, a hard disk, a magnetic tape), an optical medium, or a semiconductor medium (e.g., a solid state drive (SSD)), etc.

[0333] The present application also provides a computer program product including computer instructions, which, when executed on an ML entity, enables the ML entity to execute Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 9(a), Figure 9(b), Fig.10 , Figure 11(a), Figure 11(b), Fig.12 or Fig.13 The method shown.

[0334] Although the present application is described herein in conjunction with various embodiments, in the process of implementing the present application for which protection is claimed, those skilled in the art may understand and implement other variations of the disclosed embodiments by viewing the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other components or steps, and "one" or "an" does not exclude multiple components. A single processor or other unit may implement several functions listed in a claim. Certain measures are recorded in mutually different dependent claims, but this does not mean that these measures cannot be combined to produce good results.

[0335] Although the present application has been described in conjunction with specific features and embodiments thereof, it is obvious that various modifications and combinations may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the present application. Accordingly, this specification and the drawings are merely exemplary illustrations of the present application as defined by the appended claims, and are deemed to have covered any and all modifications, variations, combinations or equivalents within the scope of the present application. Obviously, those skilled in the art may make various modifications and variations to the present application without departing from the spirit and scope of the present application. Thus, if these modifications and variations of the present application fall within the scope of the claims of the present application and their equivalents, the present application is also intended to include these modifications and variations.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that: The method is applied to a station STA in a multi-link ML entity, and the method comprises: The STA performs a backoff procedure on the first link; The STA sends a first physical layer protocol data unit PPDU on a second link, where the second link is a first link whose backoff procedure has ended before the first moment and which is in an idle state before the first moment; The ML entity supports K first links, and the first link is one of the K first links, K is an integer greater than or equal to 2, and a backoff process is performed on each of the K first links; The second link is one of N second links, the N second links are a subset of the K first links, and N is a positive integer less than K; The first time is an end time of the backoff process of the target link among the K first links.

2. The communication method according to claim 1, characterized in that: Each of the K first links is provided with a backoff counter.

3. The communication method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The first PPDUs transmitted on different second links among the N second links are different.

4. The communication method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The second link is a first link whose backoff process has ended before the first moment and which is in an idle state before the first moment, including: The second link is a first link whose backoff procedure has been completed before the first moment and which is in an idle state within a first interval before the first moment.

5. The communication method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The STA is an access point AP, or a non-AP STA.

6. The communication method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: If the STA is an AP, the ML entity is an ML AP entity; if the STA is a non-AP STA, the ML entity is an ML non-AP STA entity or an ML non-AP entity.

7. A station STA, characterized in that: The STA includes a processing unit and a communication unit; The processing unit is configured to execute a backoff procedure on the first link; The communication unit is configured to send a first physical layer protocol data unit PPDU on a second link, where the second link is a first link whose backoff process has ended before a first moment and which is in an idle state before the first moment; The multi-link ML entity supports K first links, and the first link is one of the K first links, K is an integer greater than or equal to 2, and a backoff process is performed on each first link of the K first links; The second link is one of N second links, the N second links are a subset of the K first links, and N is a positive integer less than K; The first time is an end time of the backoff process of the target link among the K first links.

8. The STA according to claim 7, characterized in that: Each of the K first links is provided with a backoff counter.

9. The STA according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that: The first PPDUs transmitted on different second links among the N second links are different.

10. The STA according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that: The second link is a first link whose backoff process has ended before the first moment and which is in an idle state before the first moment, including: The second link is a first link whose backoff procedure has been completed before the first moment and which is in an idle state within a first interval before the first moment.

11. The STA according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that: The STA is an access point AP, or a non-AP STA.

12. The STA according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that: If the STA is an AP, the ML entity including the STA is an ML AP entity; if the STA is a non-AP STA, the ML entity including the STA is an ML non-AP STA entity or an ML non-AP entity.

13. A chip, characterized in that: The chip includes a processing circuit and a transceiver pin; the processing circuit is used to perform a backoff process on a first link; the transceiver pin is used to send a first physical layer protocol data unit PPDU on a second link, the second link is a first link whose backoff process has ended before a first moment and which is in an idle state before the first moment; The multi-link ML entity supports K first links, and the first link is one of the K first links, K is an integer greater than or equal to 2, and a backoff process is performed on each first link of the K first links; The second link is one of N second links, the N second links are a subset of the K first links, and N is a positive integer less than K; the first moment is the end moment of the backoff process of the target link among the K first links.

14. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that: The computer-readable storage medium includes computer instructions, and when the computer instructions are executed on a computer, the computer is caused to execute the communication method according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

15. A computer program product, characterized in that The computer program product comprises computer instructions, and when the computer instructions are executed on a computer, the computer is caused to execute the communication method according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

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