Low latency communications in unlicensed spectrum

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention relates to a method, equipment, a device and a computer readable medium for low-delay communication in unlicensed spectrum. The method includes transmitting, by a device, delay information to at least one other device for adjusting a channel occupancy time (COT) of the at least one other device. The delay information is associated with a first maximum tolerable delay of a first data transmission performed on the unlicensed spectrum by the first device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to the field of telecommunications, and in particular to devices, methods, apparatuses, computer-readable storage media, and systems for low-latency communications in unlicensed spectrum. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, more and more electronic devices need to access data networks via base stations, access points, sending and receiving points, TRPs, etc. In turn, various technologies have been developed to enhance the throughput of data transmission to data networks. In one solution, one or more unlicensed spectrum channels are preconfigured. When the service data to be transmitted is detected, the electronic device can access and occupy the unlicensed spectrum channel for a period of time based on the channel sensing technology to perform data communication. For example, the electronic device can use listen before talk (LBT) or clear channel assessment (CCA) in the contention window to sense whether the unlicensed spectrum is occupied. If it is determined that the unlicensed channel is idle or unoccupied, the electronic device can access and occupy the unlicensed channel within the preconfigured channel occupancy time COT. In addition to the throughput requirements, communication delay requirements are also customized for different services or electronic devices. Services can be prioritized based on communication requirements including at least delay requirements. In order to meet the communication requirements, data transmission for services with different priorities can be preconfigured with different contention windows and different COTs. However, for data transmission of services with extremely low delay requirements, the preconfigured CW and COT may be insufficient. Summary of the invention

[0003] In general, example embodiments of the present disclosure provide a solution for low-latency communications in unlicensed spectrum.

[0004] In a first aspect, a device is provided. The device includes at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions, which when executed by the at least one processor, causes the device to at least: send delay information to at least one other device for adjusting a channel occupancy time (COT) of the other device. The delay information is associated with a first maximum tolerable delay of a first data transmission performed by the device on an unlicensed spectrum.

[0005] In a second aspect, a device is provided. The device includes at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions, which when executed by the at least one processor, causes the device to at least: receive delay information from another device for adjusting the COT of the device. The delay information is associated with a first maximum tolerable delay of a first data transmission performed by the other device on an unlicensed spectrum. The device is also configured to: in response to determining based on the delay information that the COT pre-configured for the unlicensed spectrum cannot support the first maximum tolerable delay, determine a different COT for the data communication to be performed.

[0006] In a third aspect, a method is provided. The method includes: sending, by a device, delay information to at least one other device for adjusting a COT of the other device. The delay information is associated with a first maximum tolerable delay of a first data transmission performed by the device on an unlicensed spectrum.

[0007] In a fourth aspect, a method is provided. The method includes: receiving, at a device, delay information from another device for adjusting a COT of the device. The delay information is associated with a first maximum tolerable delay of a first data transmission performed by the other device on an unlicensed spectrum; and determining, in response to determining based on the delay information that a COT pre-configured for the unlicensed spectrum cannot support the first maximum tolerable delay, a different COT for data communication to be performed.

[0008] In a fifth aspect, an apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes: a component for sending delay information to at least one other apparatus for adjusting a channel occupancy time (COT) of the at least one other apparatus. The delay information is associated with a first maximum tolerable delay of a first data transmission performed by the apparatus on an unlicensed spectrum.

[0009] In a sixth aspect, an apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes: a component for receiving delay information from another apparatus for adjusting the COT of the apparatus. The delay information is associated with a first maximum tolerable delay of a first data transmission performed by the other apparatus on an unlicensed spectrum; and a component for determining a different COT for data communication to be performed in response to determining based on the delay information that a second channel occupancy time COT preconfigured for the unlicensed spectrum cannot support the first maximum tolerable delay.

[0010] In a seventh aspect, a non-transitory computer-readable medium is provided, comprising program instructions for causing a device to execute a method according to at least the third aspect or the fourth aspect.

[0011] It should be understood that the abstract is not intended to identify the key or essential features of the embodiments of the present disclosure, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Other features of the present disclosure will become readily understood through the following description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Some example embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0013] Figure 1 illustrates an example network environment in which example embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented;

[0014] Figure 2 illustrates a signaling process for low-latency communication in unlicensed spectrum according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0015] Figure 3A illustrates a set of pre-configured COTs associated with a device according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0016] Figure 3B illustrates an adjusted COT set associated with a device according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 4 A flowchart illustrating an example method for low-latency communication at a device according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated;

[0018] Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating an example method for low-latency communication at a device according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated;

[0019] Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating an example method for low-latency communication at a device according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated;

[0020] Figure 7 A flowchart illustrating an example method for low-latency communication at a device according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated;

[0021] Figure 8 illustrates a simplified block diagram of an apparatus suitable for implementing an example embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0022] Fig. 9 A block diagram of an example computer-readable medium is illustrated according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Throughout the drawings, the same or similar reference numbers refer to the same or similar elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] The principle of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to some example embodiments. It should be understood that these embodiments are only for illustrative purposes, and contribute to those skilled in the art to understand and implement the present disclosure, without implying any limitation on the scope of the present disclosure. The present disclosure described herein can be implemented in various ways except the way described below.

[0025] In the following description and claims, unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs.

[0026] References in this disclosure to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "an example embodiment," etc. indicate that the described embodiment may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but not every embodiment necessarily includes the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Furthermore, these phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in conjunction with an embodiment, it is within the knowledge of a person skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in conjunction with other embodiments, whether or not explicitly described.

[0027] It should be understood that although the terms "first" and "second" etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another element. For example, a first element may be referred to as a second element, and similarly, a second element may be referred to as a first element without departing from the scope of the exemplary embodiments. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the listed terms.

[0028] The terms used herein are only used for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit exemplary embodiments. As used herein, unless the context clearly states otherwise, the singular forms "one", "an" and "the" also include plural forms. It should also be understood that the terms "include", "comprise", "have", "have", "contain" and / or "contain" when used herein specify the existence of stated features, elements, and / or components, etc., but do not exclude the existence or addition of one or more other features, elements, components, and / or their combinations.

[0029] As used in this application, the term "circuitry" may refer to one or more or all of the following:

[0030] (a) pure hardware circuit implementation (such as implementation in analog and / or digital circuitry only) and

[0031] (b) a combination of hardware circuitry and software such as (where applicable):

[0032] (i) a combination of analog and / or digital hardware circuits and software / firmware, and

[0033] (ii) any portion of hardware processor(s) with software (including digital signal processor(s), software and memory(s) that work together to enable a device (such as a mobile phone or server) to perform various functions) and

[0034] (c) Hardware circuit(s) and / or processor(s) that require software (e.g., firmware) to operate, such as microprocessor(s) or portions of microprocessor(s), but where the software is not required for operation, the software may not be present.

[0035] This definition of circuitry applies to all uses of the term herein, including in any claims. As a further example, as used in this application, the term "circuitry" also covers an implementation of only a hardware circuit or processor (or multiple processors) or a portion of a hardware circuit or processor and its (or their) accompanying software and / or firmware. By way of example and where applicable to a particular claim element, the term "circuitry" also covers a baseband integrated circuit or processor integrated circuit for a mobile device, or a similar integrated circuit in a server, cellular network device, or other computing or network device.

[0036] As used herein, the term "communication network" refers to a network that follows any appropriate communication standard, such as wireless local area network (WLAN), long term evolution (LTE), advanced LTE (LTE-A), wideband code division multiple access (WCDMA), high speed packet access (HSPA), narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT). In addition, the communication between the terminal device and the network device in the communication network can be performed according to any appropriate generation of communication protocol, including but not limited to the first generation (1G), second generation (2G), 2.5G, 2.75G, third generation (3G), fourth generation (4G), 4.5G, fifth generation (5G), sixth generation (6G) communication protocol, and / or any other currently known or future developed protocol. The embodiments of the present disclosure can be applied to various communication systems. In view of the rapid development of communication, there will certainly be communication technologies and systems that can embody future types of the present disclosure. In addition, the scope of the present disclosure should not be understood to be limited to the above-mentioned system.

[0037] As used herein, the term "network device" refers to a node in a communication network via which a terminal device accesses the network and receives services therefrom. A network device may refer to a base station (BS) or an access point (AP), such as a NodeB (NodeB or NB), an evolved NodeB (eNodeB or eNB), a NR next-generation NodeB (gNB), a remote radio unit (RRU), a radio head (RH), a remote radio head (RRH), an integrated access and backhaul (IAB) node, a relay, a low-power node (such as a femto node, a micro node), etc., depending on the terminology and technology applied. It is allowed to define a network device as part of a gNB, for example in a CU / DU split, in which case the network device is defined as a gNB-CU or a gNB-DU.

[0038] The term "terminal device" refers to any terminal device capable of wireless communication. As an example and not limitation, the terminal device may also be referred to as a communication device, a user equipment (UE), a subscriber station (SS), a portable subscriber station, a mobile station (MS) or an access terminal (AT). The terminal device may include, but is not limited to, a mobile phone, a cellular phone, a smart phone, a voice over IP (VoIP) phone, a wireless local loop phone, a tablet computer, a wearable terminal device, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a portable computer, a desktop computer, an image capture terminal device such as a digital camera, a game terminal device, a music storage and playback device, a vehicle-mounted wireless terminal device, a wireless endpoint, a mobile station, a laptop embedded device (LEE), a laptop mounted device (LME), a USB dongle, a smart device, a wireless customer premises equipment (CPE), an Internet of Things (IoT) device, a watch or other wearable device, a head mounted display (HMD), a vehicle, a drone, medical equipment and applications (e.g., remote surgery), industrial equipment and applications (e.g., robots and / or other wireless devices running in industrial and / or automated processing chain environments), consumer electronic devices, equipment running on commercial and / or industrial wireless networks, etc. In the following description, the terms "terminal device", "communication device", "terminal", "user equipment", and "UE" may be used interchangeably.

[0039] As mentioned above, for electronic devices that perform data transmission with extremely low delay requirements, pre-configured CW and COT specific to data transmission or electronic devices may be insufficient. In some cases, even if the electronic device that performs data transmission with extremely low delay requirements pre-configures the contention window and COT with higher priority, the delay requirement between two consecutive data transmissions of the device cannot be guaranteed. For example, the maximum tolerable delay of the device may be shorter than the interval of two consecutive data transmissions of the device, because the COT of other devices on the same unlicensed spectrum channel between two consecutive data transmissions is longer than the maximum tolerable delay. Specifically, the main bottleneck for providing low-delay communication in unlicensed spectrum channels (e.g., 2.4, 5, and 6 GHz) is channel access. Unlicensed channels may be blocked by inter-system interference sources sent on the same unlicensed channels. Since the channel occupancy time COT in the above-mentioned frequency band may be as long as 8 to 10 milliseconds, if the unlicensed channel is interfered / occupied during the COT duration, it is difficult to achieve low-delay communication.

[0040] In one solution, the maximum duration of the COT is determined based on the priority of the data traffic (ie, the channel access priority class CAPC). The relationship between the maximum COT and the CAPC is provided in Table 1 below.

[0041] Table 1

[0042]

[0043] However, even if the transmission of data services corresponding to different priorities uses different contention window lengths and different COTs, the selection of a specific contention window and COT is still based only on the priority of the data service being sent, i.e., it cannot adapt to other communication requirements, such as low communication delay requirements of nearby devices. Therefore, a mechanism for dynamically adjusting the COT between multiple electronic devices based on the maximum tolerable delay of at least one device can be further considered.

[0044] To address the above and other potential problems, embodiments of the present disclosure provide an improved mechanism for low-latency communication in an unlicensed spectrum. According to the mechanism for low-latency communication in an unlicensed spectrum, a device is configured to send delay information to at least one other device for adjusting the COT of at least one other device. The delay information is associated with a first maximum tolerable delay of a first data transmission performed by the device on the unlicensed spectrum. Without limitation, the term "spectrum" and the term "channel" may be used interchangeably in the present disclosure.

[0045] In this way, the device can broadcast delay information associated with the data transmission being performed to potential interfering devices around or near the device, so that these interfering devices can respectively adjust their COTs on the unlicensed channel to meet the delay requirements of the data transmission being performed by the device.

[0046] The following will refer to Figures 1 to 9 Example embodiments of the present disclosure for low-latency communications in unlicensed spectrum are described.

[0047] Figure 1 An example network environment 100 is illustrated in which embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented. Figure 1 As shown in , the network environment 100 may be part of a communication network, including a terminal device 110, a terminal device 120, a terminal device 130, a network device 140, and a network device 150. In the present disclosure, for clarity of discussion and without any limitation, the terminal device 110 may be referred to as a first device 110, the terminal device 120 may be referred to as a second device 120, and the terminal device 130 may be referred to as a third device 130. The network device 140 may be referred to as a first network device 140, and the network device 150 may be referred to as a second network device 150.

[0048] like Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 1 , a first device (which may be a terminal device or a network device such as an access point) 110 and a third device (which may also be a terminal device or a network device such as an access point) 130 may access a data network via a first network device 140. A second device (which may also be a terminal device or a network device such as an access point) 120 may access a data network via a second network device 150. It should be understood that Figure 1 The number of devices shown in the figure is for illustration purposes only and does not imply limitations of the present disclosure.

[0049] In some embodiments, a terminal device served by a network device may perform data communication associated with a specific service on a spectrum channel indicated by the network device. In some embodiments, the indicated spectrum channel includes one or more unlicensed spectrum channels. In this case, terminal devices such as the first device 110, the second device 120, and the third device 130 need to perform a channel access process, such as an LBT or CCA process, before performing data communication. Once the device is not "blocked" by other devices, that is, during the corresponding contention window, it is determined that the unlicensed spectrum channel is idle or unoccupied, the device can perform data communication for certain services during the COT pre-configured for the service or the device. Otherwise, that is, when the device is "blocked" by other devices, the device must wait to perform another channel access process in the next contention window; in some other embodiments, the device does not need to perform another channel access process, but the ongoing channel access process can only succeed when the channel is no longer "blocked".

[0050] The communication in the network environment 100 may conform to any appropriate standard, including but not limited to IEEE 802.11 standard specifications, including IEEE 802.11be, LTE, Evolved LTE, Advanced LTE (LTE-A), Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), and Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), etc. In addition, the communication may be performed according to any generation of communication protocols currently known or developed in the future. Examples of communication protocols include but are not limited to first generation (1G), second generation (2G), 2.5G, 2.75G, third generation (3G), fourth generation (4G), 4.5G, fifth generation (5G), and / or any additional communication protocols.

[0051] The following will refer to Figures 2 to 5 The principles and implementations of the present disclosure are described in detail.

[0052] Figure 2 A signaling process 200 for low-latency communication in unlicensed spectrum is illustrated according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure. For the purpose of discussion, reference will be made to Figure 1 A signaling process 200 is described.

[0053] In the signaling process 200, at step 201, the first device 110 sends delay information to at least one other device for adjusting the COT of the at least one other device. In this example, the other device may include the second device 120, or the third device 130, or both the second device 120 and the third device 130. The delay information is associated with a first maximum tolerable delay of a first data transmission performed by the first device 110 on an unlicensed channel.

[0054] In some embodiments, when a first data transmission to be performed on an unlicensed channel is detected, the first device 110 may determine whether the first data transmission requires low delay. If it is determined that the first data transmission requires low delay, the first device 110 may determine the maximum tolerable delay of the data service and send delay information associated with the determined maximum tolerable delay. In addition or alternatively, in the case of uncertainty as to whether the first data transmission requires low delay, the first device 110 may directly determine the maximum tolerable delay of the first data transmission and send delay information associated with the determined maximum tolerable delay. Regarding the first maximum tolerable delay, in some embodiments, the first maximum tolerable delay may include: a tolerable delay between consecutive data transmissions for the data service (which may be referred to as a third delay). In addition, the first maximum tolerable delay (which may be referred to as a fourth delay) may include a delay for the lifetime of the data service. For example, the fourth delay may be a service delay requirement taking into account the lifetime.

[0055] In order to send the delay information in an efficient manner, the existing information field can be reused. In some embodiments, the first device 110 may send the delay information in a preamble for the data service. According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the network device 140 may include an access point AP in a Wi-Fi access network. In this case, the first device 110 may include the delay information in the Wi-Fi preamble for the first data transmission and send the Wi-Fi preamble accordingly. In addition to the preamble, or as a substitute for the preamble, the first device 110 may send the delay information in a specific message. In some other embodiments, the first device 110 may use any other suitable method to send the delay information.

[0056] In some embodiments, the first device 110 may broadcast the delay information to the potential interfering devices. In some embodiments, the first device 110 may sense other devices that also contend for the same unlicensed channel. The first device 110 may then send the delay information to these devices that contend for the same unlicensed channel.

[0057] For example, the first device 110 may detect the received signal power on an unlicensed channel based on a corresponding signal sent by another device on the unlicensed channel. If the received signal power is higher than a predetermined power threshold, the first device 110 may determine the corresponding other device as a potential interfering device. According to the propagation characteristics of the radio signal, the received signal power is associated with the distance between the first device 110 and the other device. Therefore, the predetermined power threshold may correspond to a certain distance from the first device 110. In this way, the first device 110 may determine the number of potential interfering devices and the identity of the potential interfering devices within a certain distance from the first device 110 based on the received signal on the unlicensed channel. Therefore, the first device 110 may send delay information only to these potential devices. Figure 2 As shown in step 201 in FIG. 1 , the second device 120 and the third device 130 may be example potential interference devices. Furthermore, the first device 110 may only send delay information to the second device 120 and the third device 130 .

[0058] Additionally or alternatively, in the case of determining the potential interfering device, the first device 110 may directly broadcast the delay information at a predetermined transmission power. In some other embodiments, the first device 110 may only transmit the delay information without involving the above steps.

[0059] The delay information associated with the maximum tolerable delay may indicate the maximum tolerable delay of the first data transmission in various ways.

[0060] In an example, the delay information may indicate a first time period associated with a first maximum tolerable delay. In some embodiments, the delay information may directly indicate the maximum tolerable delay.

[0061] In addition, at the first device 110, the maximum COT preconfigured for the first data transmission on the unlicensed channel (which may be referred to as COT 1 below) may be adjusted to accommodate the maximum tolerable delay of the first data transmission. In some embodiments, when it is determined that the unlicensed channel is idle, the first device 110 may perform data communication of the first data transmission based on the adjusted COT (which may be referred to as COT 10 below). For example, the first device 110 may use COT 10 to perform data communication of the first data transmission. Regarding the adjustment from COT 1 to COT 10, the first device 110 may select COT 10 from a predefined COT set based on the maximum tolerable delay. In some embodiments, a first association set between a set of COT values ​​and a set of maximum tolerable delays is predefined, wherein at least one of the first COT sets is associated with a corresponding maximum tolerable delay in the set of maximum tolerable delays. After determining the maximum tolerable delay for the first data transmission, the first device 110 may select COT 10 that is closest to the determined maximum tolerable delay from the set of COTs corresponding to the maximum tolerable delay in the delay set.

[0062] In some embodiments, there may be other relationships between COT and maximum tolerable delay. For example, COT 10 may be determined based on dividing the maximum tolerable delay by a preconfigured number. In some other embodiments, COT 10 may be determined based on subtracting a preconfigured value from the maximum tolerable delay. In some embodiments, the dependency of COT and the corresponding tolerable delay may be preconfigured in any other manner. Additionally or alternatively, when COT 1 is less than or equal to an appropriate COT for the maximum tolerable delay, such as a possible COT 10 selected from a predetermined COT set based on the maximum tolerable delay, the first device may not adjust COT 1. In this case, the first device may directly perform data communication for the data service using the original COT 1 preconfigured for the data service, the first device 110, or an unlicensed channel.

[0063] In addition to or instead of directly indicating the maximum tolerable delay, the delay information may indicate a COT 10 further selected by the first device 110 based on the maximum tolerable delay.

[0064] In addition or alternatively, if the first device 110 has sensed or determined the number of potentially interfering devices contending for the same unlicensed channel, the delay information may indicate a recommended COT for these potentially interfering devices (which may be referred to as a second COT). In some embodiments, the number of potentially interfering devices may be determined by means of received signal power as described above or by means of sensing. In some embodiments, the first terminal device 110 may determine the number of potentially interfering devices in any other manner.

[0065] In some embodiments, the second COT (recommended COT) can be equal to the maximum tolerable delay divided by (number of potentially interfering devices + Δ), where Δ can be a protection margin that takes into account the imperfections in sensing the correct number of potentially interfering devices contending for the channel during a particular time window.

[0066] Furthermore, at the second device 120 and the third device 130 , if the delay information transmitted from the first device (eg, in the Wi-Fi preamble) is detected, the second device 120 and the third device 130 may adjust their respective COTs accordingly.

[0067] At step 203, the second device 120 (or the third device 130) determines whether the corresponding COT can support the first maximum tolerable delay based on the received delay information. For clarity, the response operation for the received delay information is discussed with reference to the second device 120, and the operation for the third device 130 can also be performed similarly. If the maximum COT pre-configured for data transmission on the unlicensed channel of the second device 120 (which can be referred to as COT 2) can support the first maximum tolerable delay, the second device 120 can perform the corresponding data communication of the second device 120 based on COT 2. Otherwise, the second device 120 selects a different COT (which can be referred to as COT 20) to perform data communication.

[0068] In some embodiments, as discussed above, the delay information directly indicates the first maximum tolerable delay. The second device 120 can adjust COT 2 to different other COTs based on a second set of associations between a predefined COT set and a maximum tolerable delay set, wherein at least one of the second COT sets is associated with a corresponding maximum tolerable delay value in the maximum tolerable delay set. At least one COT corresponding to the maximum tolerable delay value supports the maximum tolerable delay requirement accordingly. The second device 120 can determine the longest COT in at least one COT corresponding to the maximum tolerable delay as an appropriate COT 20. In some embodiments, the second set of associations can be the above-mentioned first set of associations discussed using the first device 110. In some other embodiments, the second set of associations can be another set of associations predetermined for responding devices 120 and 130. In some other embodiments, the set of associations can be specific to the device. In addition or alternatively, if the preconfigured COT 2 is shorter than the appropriate COT 20, the second device 120 can perform data communication directly based on the preconfigured COT 2 without using COT 20.

[0069] Additionally or alternatively, as discussed above, the delay information indicates the COT 10 used by the first device 110. In this case, COT 10 is determined as a different COT used by the second device 120 for data communication to be performed, namely, COT 20. Therefore, the second device 120 can perform data communication based on COT 20 having the same time length as COT 1. Additionally or alternatively, if the preconfigured COT 2 is shorter than the COT 10 used by the first device 110, the second device 120 can directly perform data communication based on the preconfigured COT 2 without using COT 20 having the first time period.

[0070] Additionally or alternatively, as discussed above, the delay information may also indicate a recommended COT determined by the first device 110 based on the number of potentially interfering devices contending for the same unlicensed channel. In this case, the recommended COT is determined as a different COT, i.e., COT 20, for the data communication to be performed by the second device 120. Therefore, the second device 120 may perform data communication based on COT 20 having the same time length as the recommended COT. Additionally or alternatively, if the preconfigured COT 2 is shorter than the recommended COT, the second device 120 may perform data communication directly based on the preconfigured COT 2 without using COT 20 having the first time period.

[0071] By means of the operations discussed above, the COT associated with the first device 110, the second device 120, and the third device 130 can be adjusted based on the maximum tolerable delay associated with the first device 110, so that the delay of the data communication for the first service is shorter than the maximum tolerable delay. Figure 3A and Figure 3B Example advantages of these operations are illustrated.

[0072] Figure 3A 1 illustrates a set of preconfigured COTs associated with devices 110, 120, and 130 according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure. For the purpose of discussion, reference will be made to Figure 1 and Figure 2 To describe COT 300A.

[0073] like Figure 3A, COT 1 310 is preconfigured for the first device 110, COT 2 320 is preconfigured for the second device 120, and COT 3 330 is preconfigured for the third device 130. In addition, in this case, the time length 340 is the time elapsed between two consecutive data transmissions or receptions of the first device 110. However, in this example, the time length 340 is longer than the maximum tolerable delay 345. Therefore, the delay requirement of the first data transmission cannot be guaranteed based only on the COT preconfigured for the device or data service.

[0074] Figure 3B 1 illustrates adjusted COT sets associated with devices 110, 120, and 130 according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 3B As shown in , different COTs 10 350 for the first device 110, different COTs 20 360 for the second device 120, and different COTs 30 370 for the third device 130 are shown. COT 10 350 may be a suitable COT selected by the first device 110 based on the maximum tolerable delay of the data transmission of the first device (e.g., COT 10 as discussed above). According to some embodiments, COT 20 360 may be a suitable COT selected by the second device 120 based on the delay information signaled by the first device (e.g., COT 20 as discussed above). In addition, according to some embodiments, COT 30 370 may be a COT 30 selected by the third device 130 based on the delay information signaled by the first device (e.g., COT 30 as discussed above). After adjusting the COT based on the maximum tolerable delay, the actual delay 340 (e.g., COT 10 as discussed above) between two consecutive data transmissions or receptions of the first device 110 is adjusted. Figure 3A ) can be reduced to a time length 380 shorter than the maximum tolerable delay 345. In this way, by dynamically adjusting the COT by each device, the delay requirement of the first data transmission can be guaranteed.

[0075] Return to Figure 2 , the delay information associated with the maximum tolerable delay may be further updated or released based on subsequent business requirements.

[0076] At step 205, in some embodiments, the first device 110 may update the first time period indicated by the delay information based on the second maximum tolerable delay for the second data transmission to be performed. For example, the delay requirements may be different for different data services. The second maximum tolerable delay may be different from the first maximum tolerable delay. Once the first data transmission is terminated, the first device 110 may update the delay information. In addition, at step 207, the first device 110 may send the updated delay information. In some embodiments, the updated delay information may indicate a second time period. The second time period may be determined based on the second maximum tolerable delay, which is the same as the way the first time period is determined based on the first maximum tolerable delay.

[0077] In some embodiments, the first device 110 may determine a second data transmission to be performed and update the delay information based on a maximum tolerable delay for the second data transmission. In some embodiments, at least one of the first data transmission and the second data transmission comprises a low-delay communication service.

[0078] Additionally or alternatively, at step 207, the first device 110 may send a release indication for the maximum tolerable delay. The release indication indicates a release requirement for the maximum tolerable delay. For example, if the second data transmission to be performed has no constraints on delay or no further data traffic is to be performed, the first device 110 may send a release indication. For example, the first device 110 may add control information (e.g., in a preamble) in its last low-delay packet for the first data transmission, and the control information indicates that the tolerance for delay has increased.

[0079] At the second device 120 or the third device 130, at step 209, when the updated delay information is received, they can perform operations similar to the first data transmission based on the updated delay information. In addition or alternatively, when the release indication is received, the second device 120 or the third device 130 can reuse the COT2 or COT3 originally pre-configured for the corresponding device to perform data communication. For example, when the release indication is received, the second device 120 or the third device 130 knows that the constraint on the delay is released, and then the second device 120 or the third device 130 can adjust the COT back to the originally pre-configured COT.

[0080] Additionally or alternatively, at step 209 , without receiving a release indication or updated delay information, the second device 120 or the third device 130 may also automatically release the constraints associated with the delay information and adjust COT 20 or 30 back to COT 2 or COT 3 .

[0081] In some embodiments, when it is determined that the preconfigured COT 2 or COT 3 cannot support the maximum tolerable delay signaled by the first device, the second device 120 or the third device 130 can start a timer (which can be referred to as a first timer). Once the first timer expires, the second device 120 or the third device 130 can adjust COT 20 or COT 30 back to the original preconfigured COT 2 or COT 3, respectively, for the data communication to be performed. In one example, if the first predefined time length has passed, it can be determined that the first timer has expired. In addition or alternatively, in some embodiments, after receiving a release indication, it can be determined that the first timer has expired. In addition or alternatively, in some embodiments, after receiving updated delay information associated with the second maximum delay and determining that the preconfigured COT can support the second maximum delay, it can be determined that the first timer has expired.

[0082] In some embodiments, the first timer can be triggered or restarted during operation. In one example, if the same delay information associated with the first maximum tolerable delay is received again, the first timer can be restarted. In another example, if updated delay information associated with the second maximum tolerable delay is received, the first timer can be restarted.

[0083] However, in this case, if the first device 110 always performs multiple data transmissions with low latency requirements, other devices may not have the opportunity to use the original COT. In order to balance the rights of devices to send data, another timer for delay information (which may be referred to as a second timer) may be set. For example, at the second device 120, in addition to the first timer, a second timer may be started when delay information is received. For the second timer, no matter what the first device 110 communicates (even if the first device 110 is sending packets for services with low latency requirements), if it is determined that the second timer has expired, the second device 120 may resume using the previously preconfigured COT 2 (without any constraints). In one example, if the second predefined time length has elapsed, it may be determined that the second timer has expired. The second predefined time length is significantly greater than the first predefined time length. In some embodiments, the second timer is configured to disable restarting during operation.

[0084] This is to ensure fairness and prevent the first device 110 from imposing its own decision for too long.

[0085] For further technical details, please refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The operations at the first device 110 and the second device 120 or the third device 130 are further discussed.

[0086] Figure 4 Illustrated is a flowchart 400 of an example method for low-latency communications at a device according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0087] Flowchart 400 may be implemented at first device 110 , as discussed above.

[0088] At block 410, the first device 110 may determine whether the data transmission to be performed has a low latency requirement. If the data transmission does not require low latency, the method returns to block 410. Otherwise, the method continues to block 420.

[0089] At block 420 , if the data service has a low delay requirement, the first device 110 may determine another COT value different from the preconfigured COT based on an association between the maximum tolerable delay and the COT value.

[0090] At block 430 , the first device 110 may include delay information associated with the maximum tolerable delay in a preamble transmission for a data transmission, such as a Wi-Fi preamble.

[0091] At block 440 , the first device 110 may determine whether the maximum tolerable delay still applies. If the maximum tolerable delay still applies, the method returns to block 430 .

[0092] If the maximum tolerable delay does not apply, the method 400 continues to block 450 where the first device 110 can send a release indication or update delay information, as discussed above.

[0093] Figure 5 Illustrated is a flowchart 500 of an example method for low-latency communications at a device according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0094] Flowchart 500 may be implemented at either of second device 120 and third device 130, as discussed above. For clarity, flowchart 500 is discussed with reference to second device 120.

[0095] The operational flow of the second device 120 begins at block 501 .

[0096] At block 510 , the second device 120 determines whether at least one of the first timer and the second timer set for the received delay information has expired. If it is determined that at least one of the first timer and the second timer has expired, the method proceeds to block 520 .

[0097] At block 520 , the second device 120 may perform data communication for a certain duration based on a preconfigured COT value (eg, COT 2).

[0098] If both the first timer and the second timer have not expired (at block 510), the method continues to block 530. At block 530, the second device 120 determines whether the detected preamble includes delay information or a release indication. If there is no delay information or a release indication in the detected preamble, the method returns to block 510. Otherwise, the method continues to block 540.

[0099] At block 540, the second device 120 further determines whether a release indication is received. If a release indication is received, the method stops the second timer and the method then continues to block 520. Otherwise, the method continues to block 550.

[0100] At block 550, the second device 120 determines whether the currently used COT supports the maximum tolerable delay based on the delay information. If the currently used COT cannot support the maximum tolerable delay, the method continues to block 570. Otherwise, the method continues to block 560.

[0101] At block 560, the second device 120 determines whether the preconfigured COT supports the maximum tolerable delay based on the delay information. If the preconfigured COT can support the maximum tolerable delay, the second device 120 stops the second timer and then returns to block 510. Otherwise, the method continues to block 570.

[0102] At block 570 , the second device 120 starts or initiates the first timer, and the method then continues to block 580 .

[0103] At block 580, the second device 120 determines whether the second timer is running. If so, the method continues to block 595. Otherwise, the method continues to block 590, where the second timer is started, and then the method continues to block 595.

[0104] At block 595 , the second device 120 performs data communication based on a COT different from the preconfigured COT, and the method then returns to block 510 .

[0105] Figure 6 A flowchart 600 of an example method for low-latency communication at a terminal device according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. The method 600 may be performed at Figure 1 For the purpose of discussion, reference will be made to Figure 1 The method 600 is described. It should be understood that the method 600 may further include more blocks not shown and / or omit some of the blocks shown, and the scope of the present disclosure is not limited in this respect.

[0106] like Figure 6As shown in , at 610, the first device 110 sends delay information to at least one other device 120 for adjusting a channel occupation time COT of the at least one other device. The delay information is associated with a first maximum tolerable delay of a first data transmission performed by the first device 110 on an unlicensed spectrum.

[0107] In some embodiments, the first device 110 is further caused to send the delay information in a preamble for the first data transmission.

[0108] In some embodiments, the preamble comprises a Wi-Fi preamble.

[0109] In some embodiments, the delay information indicates a first channel occupation time COT of the device for the first data transmission.

[0110] In some embodiments, the device is further configured to: determine a number of devices competing for the unlicensed spectrum, wherein the delay information indicates: a second COT calculated by dividing the first maximum tolerable delay by the number of devices.

[0111] In some embodiments, the first device 110 is further configured to determine a number of devices competing for the unlicensed spectrum, wherein the delay information indicates a second COT calculated by dividing the first maximum tolerable delay by the number of devices.

[0112] In some embodiments, the first time period indicates a first maximum tolerable delay.

[0113] In some embodiments, the first device 110 is also enabled to: update delay information based on a second maximum tolerable delay for a second data transmission to be performed, wherein the second maximum tolerable delay is different from the first maximum tolerable delay, and wherein the updated delay information indicates a second time period determined based on the second maximum tolerable delay; and send updated delay information indicating the second time period to at least one other device.

[0114] In some embodiments, the first device 110 is further configured to: send a release indication for the maximum tolerable delay, where the release indication indicates releasing the requirement for the maximum tolerable delay.

[0115] In some embodiments, at least one of the first data transmission or the second data transmission comprises low latency communication traffic.

[0116] In some embodiments, the first maximum tolerable delay includes at least one of the following: a third delay for one data transmission of the data service; or a fourth delay for a lifetime of the data service.

[0117] In some embodiments, device 110 also includes a transceiver.

[0118] Figure 7 A flowchart 700 of an example method for low-latency communication at a terminal device according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. The method 700 may be performed at Figure 1 For the purpose of discussion, reference will be made to Figure 1 The method 700 is described as follows. It should be understood that the method 700 may further include more blocks not shown and / or omit some of the blocks shown, and the scope of the present disclosure is not limited in this respect.

[0119] like Figure 7 As shown in FIG. 7 , at 710, the second device 120 receives delay information from the first device 110 for adjusting the COT of the second device 120. The delay information is associated with a first maximum tolerable delay of a first data transmission performed by the first device 110 on the unlicensed spectrum.

[0120] At 720 , in response to determining based on the delay information that the COT preconfigured for the unlicensed spectrum cannot support the first maximum tolerable delay, the second device 120 determines another (different) COT for data communication to be performed.

[0121] In some embodiments, the second device 120 is also caused to receive the delay information in a preamble for the first data transmission.

[0122] In some embodiments, the preamble comprises a Wi-Fi preamble.

[0123] In some embodiments, the delay information indicates a first COT used by another device for the first data transmission; the device is further configured to: determine the first COT as the another COT.

[0124] In some embodiments, the delay information indicates a second COT, wherein the second COT is calculated by dividing the first maximum tolerable delay by the number of devices, and the device is further configured to: determine the second COT as the another COT.

[0125] In some embodiments, the delay information indicates a first maximum tolerable delay, wherein the device is further configured to determine a different COT by selecting another COT from a predefined set of COTs, the selected COT being the longest COT in the predefined set of COTs that supports the first maximum tolerable delay.

[0126] In some embodiments, the second device 120 is also caused to perform data communication based on the other COT.

[0127] In some embodiments, the device is further configured to: perform data communication based on a COT pre-configured for an unlicensed spectrum in response to detecting that a first timer has expired, the expiration of the first timer being detected based on at least one of the following items: receiving a release indication for a maximum tolerable delay, the release indication indicating a release of the requirement for the maximum tolerable delay; receiving updated delay information associated with a second maximum tolerable delay, wherein based on the updated delay information, it is determined that the COT pre-configured for the unlicensed spectrum will be able to support the second maximum tolerable delay; or a first predefined length of time has passed.

[0128] In some embodiments, the first timer is configured to be started or restarted in response to at least one of the following items: receiving delay information and determining that the COT pre-configured for the unlicensed spectrum cannot support a first tolerable maximum delay; or receiving updated delay information and determining that the COT pre-configured for the unlicensed spectrum cannot support a second maximum tolerable delay.

[0129] In some embodiments, the device is further configured to, in response to detecting that a second timer has expired, perform data communication based on a COT preconfigured for unlicensed spectrum, wherein expiration of the second timer is detected based on a second predefined length of time that has elapsed, and wherein the second predefined length of time is longer than the first predefined length of time.

[0130] In some embodiments, the second timer is configured to: be started when the delay information is received; and disable restarting during operation.

[0131] In some embodiments, the first data transmission comprises low latency communication traffic.

[0132] In some embodiments, the first maximum tolerable delay includes at least one of the following: a third delay for one data transmission of the data service; or a fourth delay for a lifetime of the data service.

[0133] In some embodiments, device 120 also includes a transceiver.

[0134] Figure 8 800 is a simplified block diagram of a device 800 suitable for implementing embodiments of the present disclosure. The device 800 may be provided to implement a communication device, such as Figure 1 8. As shown, the device 800 includes one or more processors 810, one or more memories 820 coupled to the processors 810, and one or more transmitters and / or receivers (TX / RX) 840 coupled to the processors 810.

[0135] The TX / RX 840 may be configured for bidirectional communication. The TX / RX 840 has at least one antenna to facilitate communication. The communication interface may represent any interface required to communicate with other network elements.

[0136] Processor 810 may be of any type suitable for the local technology network and may include, as non-limiting examples, one or more of a general purpose computer, a special purpose computer, a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), and a processor based on a multi-core processor architecture. Device 800 may have multiple processors, such as application specific integrated circuit chips that are time slaved to a clock that synchronizes a main processor.

[0137] The memory 820 may include one or more non-volatile memories and one or more volatile memories. Examples of non-volatile memories include, but are not limited to, read-only memory (ROM) 824, electrically programmable read-only memory (EPROM), flash memory, hard disk, compact disk (CD), digital video disk (DVD), and other magnetic storage and / or optical storage media. Examples of volatile memories include, but are not limited to, random access memory (RAM) 822 and other volatile memories that do not persist during the duration of a power outage.

[0138] The computer program 830 includes computer executable instructions that are executable by the associated processor 810. The program 830 may be stored in the memory 820, such as in the ROM 824. The processor 810 may perform any appropriate actions and processes by loading the program 830 into the RAM 822.

[0139] The embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented by means of program 830, so that the device 800 can execute the Figure 2 Any process of the present disclosure discussed. The embodiments of the present disclosure may also be implemented by hardware or by a combination of software and hardware.

[0140] In some embodiments, the program 830 may be tangibly contained in a computer-readable medium, which may be included in the device 800 (e.g., in the memory 820) or in other storage devices accessible by the device 800. The device 800 may load the program 830 from the computer-readable medium to the RAM 822 for execution. The computer-readable medium may include any type of tangible non-volatile memory, such as ROM, EPROM, flash memory, hard disk, CD, DVD, etc. Fig. 9 An example of a computer readable medium 900 in the form of a CD or DVD is illustrated. The computer readable medium has a program 830 stored thereon.

[0141] Various embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented in hardware or dedicated circuits, software, logic, or any combination thereof. Some aspects may be implemented in hardware, while other aspects may be implemented in firmware or software, which may be executed by a controller, microprocessor, or other computing device. Although various aspects of the embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated and described as block diagrams, flow charts, or using some other graphical representations, it should be understood that, as non-limiting examples, the blocks, devices, systems, techniques, or methods described herein may be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, dedicated circuits or logic, general hardware or controllers or other computing devices, or some combination thereof.

[0142] The present disclosure also provides at least one computer program product tangibly stored on a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. The computer program product includes computer executable instructions, such as those included in a program module, which are executed in a device on a target real or virtual processor to perform the above-referenced Figure 6-Figure 7 Any of the methods 600 to 700 described herein. Typically, a program module may include routines, programs, libraries, objects, classes, components, data structures, etc. that perform specific tasks or implement specific abstract data types. In various embodiments, the functionality of program modules may be combined or split between program modules as desired. The machine executable instructions of program modules may be executed in local or distributed devices. In distributed devices, program modules may be located in local and remote storage media.

[0143] The program code for executing the disclosed method can be written in any combination of one or more programming languages. These program codes can be provided to a processor or controller of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer or other programmable data processing device so that when the processor or controller executes the program code, the functions / operations specified in the flow chart and / or block diagram are implemented. The program code can be executed completely on the machine, partially on the machine, as an independent software package, partially on the machine and partially on a remote machine, or completely on a remote machine or server.

[0144] In the context of the present disclosure, computer program codes or related data may be carried by any appropriate carrier to enable a device, apparatus or processor to perform various processes and operations as described above. Examples of carriers include signals, computer readable media, etc.

[0145] The computer readable medium may be a computer readable signal medium or a computer readable storage medium. The computer readable medium may include, but is not limited to, an electrical, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared or semiconductor system, device or apparatus, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. More specific examples of computer readable storage media include: an electrical connection with one or more wires, a portable computer disk, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), an optical fiber, a portable compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing.

[0146] In addition, although each operation is depicted in a specific order, this should not be understood as requiring such operations to be performed in the specific order shown or in sequence, or requiring the execution of all illustrated operations to achieve the desired result. In some scenarios, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Similarly, although several specific implementation details are included in the above discussion, these should not be interpreted as limitations on the scope of the present disclosure, but should be interpreted as descriptions of features that may be specific to a particular embodiment. Certain features described in the context of a separate embodiment may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. On the contrary, the various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented separately in multiple embodiments or in any suitable sub-combination.

[0147] Although the disclosure has been described in language specific to structural features and / or methodological acts, it should be understood that the disclosure defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Instead, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims.

Claims

1. A device comprising: at least one processor; as well as at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the device to at least: Delay information is sent to at least one other device for adjusting a channel occupation time (COT) of the at least one other device, the delay information being associated with a first maximum tolerable delay of a first data transmission performed by the device on an unlicensed spectrum.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus is further caused to: send the delay information in a preamble for the first data transmission.

3. The device of claim 2, wherein the preamble comprises a Wi-Fi preamble. 4 . The device according to claim 1 , wherein the delay information indicates a first channel occupancy time (COT) of the device for the first data transmission.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus is further configured to: Determine the number of devices competing for the unlicensed spectrum, and The delay information indicates: a second COT calculated by dividing the first maximum tolerable delay by the number of the devices. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the delay information indicates the first maximum tolerable delay.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus is further configured to: updating the delay information based on a second maximum tolerable delay for a second data transmission to be performed, wherein the second maximum tolerable delay is different from the first maximum tolerable delay; and Updated delay information indicating the second time period is sent to the at least one other device.

8. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the apparatus is further configured to: A release indication for the maximum tolerable delay is sent, the release indication indicating a release of a requirement for the maximum tolerable delay.

9. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein at least one of the first data transmission or the second data transmission comprises a low-latency communication service.

10. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the first maximum tolerable delay comprises at least one of the following: a third delay for a data transmission of the data service; or A fourth delay for a time to live of the data service.

11. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising a transceiver.

12. A device comprising: at least one processor; as well as at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the device to at least: receiving delay information from another device for adjusting a channel occupation time (COT) of the device, the delay information being associated with a first maximum tolerable delay of a first data transmission performed by the other device on an unlicensed spectrum; and In response to determining, based on the delay information, that a channel occupancy time (COT) preconfigured for the unlicensed spectrum cannot support the first maximum tolerable delay, determining a different COT for data communication to be performed.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the apparatus is further caused to receive the delay information in a preamble for the first data transmission.

14. The device of claim 13, wherein the preamble comprises a Wi-Fi preamble.

15. The device of claim 12, wherein the delay information indicates a first COT used by the other device for the first data transmission, and the device is further configured to: The first COT is determined as the different COT.

16. The device of claim 12, wherein the delay information indicates a second COT, and wherein the second COT is calculated by dividing the first maximum tolerable delay by the number of the devices contending for the unlicensed spectrum, and the device is further configured to: The second COT is determined as the different COT.

17. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the delay information indicates the first maximum tolerable delay, and wherein the apparatus is further configured to determine the different COTs by: The different COT is selected from a predefined COT set, the selected COT being the longest COT in the predefined COT set that supports the first maximum tolerable delay.

18. The apparatus according to any one of claims 12 to 17, wherein the apparatus is further caused to: perform data communication based on the different COTs.

19. The apparatus according to any one of claims 12 to 18, wherein the apparatus is further configured to: In response to detecting that a first timer has expired, performing data communication based on the COT preconfigured for the unlicensed spectrum, the expiration of the first timer being detected based on at least one of: receiving a release indication for the maximum tolerable delay, the release indication indicating a release of a requirement for the maximum tolerable delay; receiving updated delay information associated with a second maximum tolerable delay, wherein based on the updated delay information, it is determined that the COT preconfigured for the unlicensed spectrum will be able to support the second maximum tolerable delay; or A first predefined length of time has elapsed.

20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the first timer is configured to be started or restarted in response to at least one of the following: receiving the delay information, and determining that the COT pre-configured for the unlicensed spectrum cannot support the first tolerable maximum delay; or The updated delay information is received, and it is determined that the COT pre-configured for the unlicensed spectrum cannot support the second maximum tolerable delay.

21. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the apparatus is further caused to: In response to detecting that a second timer has expired, performing data communication based on the COT preconfigured for the unlicensed spectrum, wherein the expiration of the second timer is detected based on a second predefined length of time that has elapsed, and wherein the second predefined length of time is longer than the first predefined length of time.

22. The apparatus of claim 21 , wherein the second timer is configured to: is initiated upon determining that the COT pre-configured for the unlicensed spectrum cannot support the first maximum tolerable delay; and Disable restart during a run.

23. The apparatus of any one of claims 12 to 22, wherein the first data transmission comprises low-latency communication traffic.

24. The apparatus according to any one of claims 12 to 23, wherein the first maximum tolerable delay comprises at least one of the following: a third delay for a data transmission of the data service; or A fourth delay for a time to live of the data service.

25. The apparatus of any one of claims 12 to 24, further comprising a transceiver.

26. A method comprising: Delay information is sent by a device to at least one other device for adjusting a channel occupation time COT of the at least one other device, wherein the delay information is associated with a first maximum tolerable delay of a first data transmission performed by the device on an unlicensed spectrum.

27. A method comprising: receiving, at a device, delay information from another device for adjusting a channel occupation time (COT) of the device, the delay information being associated with a first maximum tolerable delay of a first data transmission performed by the other device on an unlicensed spectrum; and In response to determining, based on the delay information, that the COT preconfigured for the unlicensed spectrum cannot support the first maximum tolerable delay, determining a different COT for data communication to be performed.

28. An apparatus comprising: Means for sending delay information to at least one other device for adjusting a channel occupancy time (COT) of the at least one other device, the delay information being associated with a first maximum tolerable delay of a first data transmission performed by the device over an unlicensed spectrum.

29. An apparatus comprising: means for receiving delay information from another apparatus for use in adjusting a channel occupancy time (COT) of the apparatus, the delay information being associated with a first maximum tolerable delay of a first data transmission performed by the other apparatus on an unlicensed spectrum; and Means for determining a different COT for data communication to be performed in response to determining based on the delay information that the COT preconfigured for the unlicensed spectrum cannot support the first maximum tolerable delay.

30. A non-transitory computer readable medium comprising program instructions for causing an apparatus to perform at least the method according to claim 26 or 27.

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