Access point synchronization

Abstract

In some aspects, an access point (AP) may detect a periodic advertisement broadcast from another AP. The AP may send a message to another AP to initiate a connection between the another AP and the AP. The AP may receive, from another AP, a synchronization message identifying at least one of a periodic announcement timing used by the other AP or a set of index values including at least a first index value associated with the other AP, the first index value indicating a first frequency hopping sequence (HFS) used by the other AP. The AP may send a periodic advertisement synchronized with a periodic advertisement timing used by another AP according to a second HFS based at least in part on a second index value associated with the AP, the second HFS being orthogonal to the first HFS. Numerous other aspects are described.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Aspects of the present disclosure relate generally to wireless communications and, for example, to access point synchronization. Background Art

[0002] Short-range wireless communications enable wireless communications over relatively short distances (e.g., within 30 meters). For example, BLUETOOTH® (Bluetooth) is a wireless technology standard for exchanging data over short distances using short-wavelength ultra-high frequency (UHF) radio waves from 2.4 gigahertz (GHz) to 2.485 GHz. Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) is a form of Bluetooth communication that allows communication with devices that operate on low power. Such devices may include beacons, which are wireless communication devices that may use low-power communication technology for positioning, proximity marketing, or other purposes. In addition, such devices may be used as nodes (e.g., relay nodes) of a wireless mesh network that transmit and / or relay information to a management platform or hub associated with the wireless mesh network. Summary of the invention

[0003] Some aspects described herein relate to a method performed by an access point. The method may include detecting a periodic advertisement broadcast from another access point. The method may include, based on detecting the periodic advertisement, sending a message to the other access point to initiate a connection between the other access point and the access point. The method may include receiving a synchronization message from the other access point, the synchronization message identifying at least one of a periodic advertisement timing or a set of index values ​​used by the other access point, the set of index values ​​including at least a first index value associated with the other access point, the first index value indicating a first hopping sequence used by the other access point. The method may include sending a periodic advertisement synchronized with the periodic advertisement timing used by the other access point based on a second hopping sequence based at least in part on a second index value associated with the access point, the second hopping sequence being orthogonal to the first hopping sequence.

[0004] Some aspects described herein relate to a method performed by an access point. The method may include sending a periodic advertisement. The method may include receiving a message from another access point that detects one or more of the periodic advertisements to initiate a connection between the access point and the other access point. The method may include sending a synchronization message to the other access point, the synchronization message identifying at least one of a periodic advertisement timing used by the access point or a set of index values, the set of index values ​​including at least an index value associated with the access point, the index value indicating a frequency hopping sequence used by the access point.

[0005] Some aspects described herein relate to a method performed by a management entity. The method may include receiving respective messages from a plurality of access points indicating detection of periodic advertisements from an access point, the plurality of access points being associated with respective index values ​​indicating frequency hopping sequences used by the plurality of access points. The method may include determining, for the access point, a leader access point from the plurality of access points and an index value indicating a frequency hopping sequence, the frequency hopping sequence being orthogonal to each frequency hopping sequence used by the plurality of access points. The method may include sending information identifying the access point and the index value to the leader access point.

[0006] Some aspects described herein relate to a method performed by a wireless communication device. The method may include receiving information identifying a set of index values ​​respectively associated with a plurality of access points, the set of index values ​​indicating a frequency hopping sequence used by the plurality of access points. The method may include detecting that synchronization between the wireless communication device and one of the plurality of access points has been lost. The method may include monitoring, based on the frequency hopping sequence indicated by the set of index values, periodic announcements broadcast from at least one other access point of the plurality of access points. The method may include detecting periodic announcements broadcast from another access point of the plurality of access points based at least in part on monitoring the periodic announcements.

[0007] Some aspects described herein relate to an access point. An access point may include a memory and one or more processors coupled to the memory. The one or more processors may be configured to detect a periodic advertisement broadcast from another access point. The one or more processors may be configured to, based on detecting the periodic advertisement, send a message to the other access point to initiate a connection between the other access point and the access point. The one or more processors may be configured to receive a synchronization message from the other access point, the synchronization message identifying at least one of the following: a periodic advertisement timing used by the other access point, or an index value set including at least a first index value associated with the other access point, wherein the first index value indicates a first hopping sequence used by the other access point. The one or more processors may be configured to send a periodic advertisement synchronized with the periodic advertisement timing used by the other access point according to a second hopping sequence based at least in part on a second index value associated with the access point, the second hopping sequence being orthogonal to the first hopping sequence.

[0008] Some aspects described herein relate to an access point. The access point may include a memory and one or more processors coupled to the memory. The one or more processors may be configured to send periodic announcements. The one or more processors may be configured to receive a message for initiating a connection between the access point and another access point from another access point that detects one or more of the periodic announcements. The one or more processors may be configured to send a synchronization message to the other access point, the synchronization message identifying the periodic announcement timing used by the access point or at least one of a set of index values ​​including an index value associated with the access point, the index value indicating a frequency hopping sequence used by the access point.

[0009] Some aspects described herein relate to a management entity. The management entity may include a memory and one or more processors coupled to the memory. The one or more processors may be configured to receive, from a plurality of access points, corresponding messages indicating detection of periodic advertisements from an access point. The one or more processors may be configured to determine, for the access point, a leader access point from the plurality of access points and an index value indicating a frequency hopping sequence. The one or more processors may be configured to send information identifying the access point and the index value to the leader access point.

[0010] Some aspects described herein relate to a wireless communication device. The wireless communication device may include a memory and one or more processors coupled to the memory. The one or more processors may be configured to receive information identifying a set of index values ​​associated with a plurality of access points, respectively, the set of index values ​​indicating a frequency hopping sequence used by the plurality of access points. The one or more processors may be configured to detect that synchronization between the wireless communication device and one of the plurality of access points has been lost. The one or more processors may be configured to monitor, based on the frequency hopping sequence indicated by the set of index values, periodic announcements broadcast from at least one other access point in the plurality of access points. The one or more processors may be configured to detect periodic announcements broadcast from another access point in the plurality of access points based at least in part on monitoring the periodic announcements.

[0011] Some aspects described herein relate to a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing a set of instructions for an access point. When executed by one or more processors of the access point, the instructions may cause the access point to detect a periodic advertisement broadcast from another access point. The instructions, when executed by the one or more processors of the access point, may cause the access point to send a message to the other access point to initiate a connection between the other access point and the access point based on detecting the periodic advertisement. These instructions, when executed by the one or more processors of the access point, may cause the access point to receive a synchronization message from the other access point, the synchronization message identifying at least one of a periodic advertisement timing used by the other access point or a set of index values, the set of index values ​​including at least a first index value associated with the other access point, the first index value indicating a first hopping sequence used by the other access point. These instructions, when executed by the one or more processors of the access point, may cause the access point to send a periodic advertisement synchronized with the periodic advertisement timing used by the other access point according to a second hopping sequence based at least in part on a second index value associated with the access point, the second hopping sequence being orthogonal to the first hopping sequence.

[0012] Some aspects described herein relate to a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing an instruction set for an access point. The instruction set, when executed by one or more processors of the access point, may cause the access point to send periodic advertisements. The instruction set, when executed by one or more processors of the access point, may cause the access point to receive a message from another access point that detects one or more of the periodic advertisements to initiate a connection between the access point and the other access point. When executed by one or more processors of the access point, the instruction set may cause the access point to send a synchronization message to the other access point, the synchronization message identifying at least one of a periodic advertisement timing or an index value set used by the access point, the index value set including at least an index value associated with the access point, the index value indicating a frequency hopping sequence used by the access point.

[0013] Some aspects described herein relate to a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing a set of instructions for a management entity. The set of instructions, when executed by one or more processors of the management entity, may cause the management entity to receive, from a plurality of access points, respective messages indicating detection of periodic advertisements from access points. The set of instructions, when executed by one or more processors of the management entity, may cause the management entity to determine a leader access point from a plurality of access points and an index value indicating a frequency hopping sequence for the access point. The set of instructions, when executed by one or more processors of the management entity, may cause the management entity to send information identifying the access point and the index value to the leader access point.

[0014] Some aspects described herein relate to a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing a set of instructions for a wireless communication device. The set of instructions, when executed by one or more processors of the wireless communication device, may cause the wireless communication device to receive information identifying a set of index values ​​associated with a plurality of access points, respectively, the set of index values ​​indicating a frequency hopping sequence used by the plurality of access points. When executed by one or more processors of the wireless communication device, the set of instructions may cause the wireless communication device to detect that synchronization between the wireless communication device and one of the plurality of access points has been lost. When executed by one or more processors of the wireless communication device, the set of instructions may cause the wireless communication device to monitor periodic announcements broadcast from at least one other access point of the plurality of access points according to the frequency hopping sequence indicated by the set of index values. When executed by one or more processors of the wireless communication device, the set of instructions may cause the wireless communication device to detect periodic announcements broadcast from another access point of the plurality of access points based at least in part on monitoring the periodic announcements.

[0015] Some aspects described herein relate to an apparatus. The apparatus may include means for detecting periodic advertisements broadcast from an access point. The apparatus may include means for sending a message to the access point to initiate a connection between the access point and the apparatus based on detecting the periodic advertisements. The apparatus may include means for receiving a synchronization message from the access point, the synchronization message identifying at least one of a periodic advertisement timing used by the access point or a set of index values, the set of index values ​​including at least a first index value associated with the access point, the first index value indicating a first hopping sequence used by the access point. The apparatus may include means for sending periodic advertisements synchronized with the periodic advertisement timing used by the access point based on a second hopping sequence based at least in part on a second index value associated with the apparatus, the second hopping sequence being orthogonal to the first hopping sequence.

[0016] Some aspects described herein relate to an apparatus. The apparatus may include means for sending periodic advertisements. The apparatus may include means for receiving a message from an access point that detects one or more of the periodic advertisements to initiate a connection between the apparatus and the access point. The apparatus may include means for sending a synchronization message to the access point, the synchronization message identifying at least one of a periodic advertisement timing used by the apparatus or a set of index values, the set of index values ​​including at least an index value associated with the apparatus, the index value indicating a frequency hopping sequence used by the apparatus.

[0017] Some aspects described herein relate to an apparatus. The apparatus may include means for receiving respective messages from a plurality of access points indicating detection of periodic advertisements from an access point, the plurality of access points being associated with respective index values ​​indicating frequency hopping sequences used by the plurality of access points. The apparatus may include means for determining, for the access point, a leader access point from the plurality of access points and an index value indicating a frequency hopping sequence, the frequency hopping sequence being orthogonal to each frequency hopping sequence used by the plurality of access points. The apparatus may include means for sending information identifying the access point and the index value to the leader access point.

[0018] Some aspects described herein relate to an apparatus. The apparatus may include means for receiving information identifying a set of index values ​​respectively associated with a plurality of access points, the set of index values ​​indicating a frequency hopping sequence used by the plurality of access points. The apparatus may include means for detecting that synchronization between the apparatus and one of the plurality of access points has been lost. The apparatus may include means for monitoring periodic advertisements broadcasted from at least one other access point of the plurality of access points according to the frequency hopping sequence indicated by the set of index values. The apparatus may include means for detecting periodic advertisements broadcasted from another access point of the plurality of access points based at least in part on monitoring the periodic advertisements.

[0019] Aspects generally include methods, apparatus, systems, computer program products, non-transitory computer-readable media, user equipment, user devices, wireless communication devices, and / or processing systems as substantially described with reference to and as illustrated in the accompanying drawings and description.

[0020] The features and technical advantages of the examples according to the present disclosure have been outlined quite extensively above so that the following detailed description may be better understood. Additional features and advantages will be described below. The disclosed concepts and specific examples may be easily used as a basis for modifying or designing other structures for performing the same purpose of the present disclosure. Such equivalent constructions do not depart from the scope of the appended claims. When considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, the characteristics of the concepts disclosed herein (both their organization and methods of operation) and the associated advantages will be better understood according to the following description. Each of the accompanying drawings is provided for the purpose of illustration and description and not as a definition of limitations to the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] In order that the above-mentioned features of the present disclosure may be understood in detail, a more specific description briefly summarized above may be obtained by reference to various aspects, some of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. However, it should be noted that the accompanying drawings illustrate only certain typical aspects of the present disclosure and therefore should not be considered as limiting the scope thereof, as the description may allow for other equally effective aspects. The same reference numerals in different drawings may identify the same or similar elements.

[0022] Figure 1 is an illustration of an example environment in which the systems and / or methods described herein may be implemented.

[0023] Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating example components of a device according to the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 3A is a diagram illustrating an example associated with discovery and synchronization between access points according to the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 3B is a diagram illustrating an example associated with discovery and synchronization between access points according to the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating an example associated with handover of a wireless communication device according to the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 5 is a flow diagram of an example process associated with access point synchronization according to the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 6 is a flow diagram of an example process associated with access point synchronization according to the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 7 is a flow diagram of an example process associated with access point synchronization according to the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 8 is a flow chart of an example process associated with a handover of a wireless communication device according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] Various aspects of the present disclosure are described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present disclosure can be embodied in many different forms, and should not be construed as being limited to any specific structure or function given throughout the present disclosure. On the contrary, these aspects are provided so that the present disclosure will be thorough and complete, and the scope of the present disclosure will be fully conveyed to those skilled in the art. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that the scope of the present disclosure is intended to cover any aspect of the present disclosure disclosed herein, whether it is realized independently of any other aspect of the present disclosure or realized in combination with any other aspect of the present disclosure. For example, any number of aspects set forth herein can be used to implement a device or practice method. In addition, the scope of the present disclosure is intended to cover such a device or method that is practiced using other structures, functions, or structures and functions other than the various aspects of the present disclosure set forth herein or different from the various aspects of the present disclosure set forth herein. It should be understood that any aspect of the present disclosure disclosed herein can be embodied by one or more elements of the claims.

[0032] An electronic shelf label (ESL) system may include one or more ESLs controlled by a management entity. To facilitate control by the management entity, each ESL may have a wireless connection (e.g., a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) connection) to an access point that is communicatively connected to the management entity (e.g., via the Internet). Thus, commands from the management entity may be wirelessly transmitted by the access point to the ESL.

[0033] In some cases, the ESL can be physically moved to a new location. For example, the ESL can be moved from a location in a store (e.g., a specific shelf or storage area) to a different location. Changing the location of the ESL may cause the ESL to lose synchronization with the current access point of the ESL (e.g., due to being out of range), thereby interrupting the ability of the management entity to control the ESL and the ability of the ESL to report to the management entity. After determining that the network is interrupted (e.g., caused by loss of synchronization), the ESL can perform a joining process to reestablish synchronization with the access point. In order to perform the joining process, the ESL can send an announcement message, receive a connection request from an access point within the range where the announcement message is detected, and exchange messages with the access point (e.g., including the exchange of periodic announcement synchronization transmission (PAST) information). The joining process may consume a large amount of computing resources (e.g., processor resources, memory resources, and / or battery resources, as well as other examples) of the ESL and / or the access point, and the frequent announcements of one or more ESLs may cause spectrum pollution on the announcement channel of the wireless network.

[0034] Some techniques and apparatus described herein enable discovery and synchronization of communication timing of multiple access points in an ESL system. In particular, periodic advertisement timing used by multiple access points can be synchronized. Multiple access points can use corresponding orthogonal frequency hopping sequences (HFS) to avoid interference between multiple access points. In some aspects, the HFS used by the access point can be based on an index value (e.g., which indicates an offset relative to a reference HFS), and an ESL in the ESL system can receive information indicating corresponding index values ​​of multiple access points.

[0035] In this way, if the ESL loses synchronization with the access point, the ESL can search for periodic announcements of other access points based on the synchronized periodic announcement timing and on the channels indicated by the index values ​​for multiple access points (e.g., derived from the index values ​​for multiple access points). In other words, since the periodic announcement timings of multiple access points are synchronized, the time synchronization that the ESL has with the current access point of the ESL is also applicable to other access points. Therefore, the ESL can efficiently detect the periodic announcements of another access point and establish synchronization with another access point without performing the above-mentioned complete joining process. In addition, the ESL can monitor the periodic announcements only in the channels according to the HFS indicated by the index value, rather than monitoring the periodic announcements of all channels. Therefore, the technology described herein saves radio resources or computing resources (e.g., processor resources, memory resources and / or battery resources, as well as other examples) of the ESL and / or the access point, and reduces spectrum pollution on the announcement channel.

[0036] Figure 1 1 is a diagram of an example environment 100 in which the systems and / or methods described herein may be implemented. Figure 1 As shown, environment 100 may include at least one access point 110, at least one wireless communication device 120, a management entity 130, and a network 140. The devices of environment 100 may be interconnected via wired connections, wireless connections, or a combination of wired and wireless connections.

[0037] The access point 110 may include one or more devices capable of receiving, generating, storing, processing, providing and / or routing information associated with access point synchronization and / or handover, as described elsewhere herein. The access point 110 may include a communication device and / or a computing device. The access point 110 may be configured to send beacons (e.g., BLE beacons), and to scan and locate other devices (e.g., other devices that communicate using the BLE protocol).

[0038] The wireless communication device 120 may include one or more devices capable of receiving, generating, storing, processing, and / or providing information associated with access point synchronization and / or handover, as described elsewhere herein. The wireless communication device 120 may include a communication device and / or a computing device. In some aspects, the wireless communication device 120 may be, may include, or may be included in an ESL.

[0039] The management entity 130 includes one or more devices capable of receiving, generating, storing, processing, providing and / or routing information associated with access point synchronization and / or switching, as described elsewhere herein. The management entity 130 may include a communication device and / or a computing device. For example, the management entity 130 may include a server, such as an application server, a client server, a web server, a database server, a host server, a proxy server, a virtual server (e.g., executed on computing hardware) or a server in a cloud computing system. In some aspects, the management entity 130 includes computing hardware used in a cloud computing environment. The management entity 130 may provide control of a system (e.g., an ESL system) including the access point 110, the wireless communication device 120, and / or the device 130. The access point 110 may be communicatively connected to the management entity 130 via a network (not shown) such as the Internet.

[0040] Network 140 may include one or more wireless networks. For example, network 140 may include a personal area network (eg, a Bluetooth network). Network 140 enables communication between devices in environment 100.

[0041] Figure 1 The number and arrangement of devices and networks shown in are provided as examples. In practice, there may be Figure 1 The devices and / or networks shown in FIG. 1 may be compared to additional devices and / or networks, fewer devices and / or networks, different devices and / or networks, or differently arranged devices and / or networks. In addition, Figure 1 Two or more of the devices shown in may be implemented in a single device, or Figure 1 The single device shown in the environment 100 may be implemented as multiple distributed devices. Additionally or alternatively, one device group (eg, one or more devices) of the environment 100 may perform one or more functions described as being performed by another device group of the environment 100.

[0042] Figure 22 is a diagram illustrating example components of a device 200 according to the present invention. The device 200 may correspond to the access point 110, the wireless communication device 120, and / or the management entity 130. In some aspects, the access point 110, the wireless communication device 120, and / or the management entity 130 may include one or more devices 200 and / or one or more components of the device 200. Figure 2 As shown in , apparatus 200 may include a bus 205 , a processor 210 , a memory 215 , a storage component 220 , an input component 225 , an output component 230 , and / or a communication component 235 .

[0043] The bus 205 includes components that allow communication between components of the device 200. The processor 210 is implemented in hardware, firmware, or a combination of hardware and software. The processor 210 is a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an accelerated processing unit (APU), a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a digital signal processor (DSP), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or another type of processing component. In some aspects, the processor 210 includes one or more processors that can be programmed to perform functions. The memory 215 includes a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), and / or another type of dynamic or static storage device (e.g., flash memory, magnetic memory, and / or optical memory) that stores information and / or instructions for use by the processor 210.

[0044] Storage component 220 stores information and / or software related to the operation and use of device 200. For example, storage component 220 may include a hard disk (e.g., a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, and / or a solid-state disk), a compact disk (CD), a digital versatile disk (DVD), a floppy disk, a cassette, a magnetic tape, and / or other types of non-transitory computer-readable media and corresponding drives.

[0045] Input components 225 include components that allow device 200 to receive information, such as via user input (e.g., a touch screen display, a keyboard, a keypad, a mouse, buttons, switches, and / or a microphone). Additionally or alternatively, input components 225 may include components for determining the location or position of device 200 (e.g., a global positioning system (GPS) component or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) component) and / or sensors for sensing information (e.g., an accelerometer, a gyroscope, an actuator, or another type of position or environmental sensor). Output components 230 include components that provide output information from device 200 (e.g., a display, a speaker, a tactile feedback component, and / or an audio or visual indicator).

[0046] The communication component 235 includes a transceiver-like component (e.g., a transceiver and / or a separate receiver and transmitter) that enables the device 200 to communicate with other devices, such as via a wired connection, a wireless connection, or a combination of wired and wireless connections. The communication component 235 can allow the device 200 to receive information from another device and / or provide information to another device. For example, the communication component 235 can include an Ethernet interface, an optical interface, a coaxial interface, an infrared interface, a radio frequency interface, a universal serial bus (USB) interface, a wireless local area interface (e.g., a Wi-Fi interface or a BLE interface), and / or a cellular network interface.

[0047] In some aspects, device 200 may represent an ESL. In addition to the components described above, the ESL may also include a battery. In some aspects, output component 230 of the ESL may be an electronic paper (e-paper) display or a liquid crystal display (LCD).

[0048] Device 200 may perform one or more processes described herein. Device 200 may perform these processes based on processor 210 executing software instructions stored by non-transitory computer-readable media (such as memory 215 and / or storage component 220). Computer-readable media is defined herein as non-transitory memory devices. Memory devices include memory space within a single physical storage device or memory space distributed across multiple physical storage devices.

[0049] The software instructions may be read into the memory 215 and / or storage component 220 from another computer-readable medium or from another device via the communication component 235. When executed, the software instructions stored in the memory 215 and / or storage component 220 may cause the processor 210 to perform one or more processes described herein. Additionally or alternatively, hardwired circuitry may be used in place of or in combination with software instructions to perform one or more processes described herein. Therefore, the aspects described herein are not limited to any specific combination of hardware circuitry and software.

[0050] In some aspects, the device 200 includes means for performing one or more processes described herein and / or means for performing one or more operations of the processes described herein. In some aspects, the device 200 includes: means for detecting periodic advertisements broadcast from an access point; means for sending a message to the access point to initiate a connection between the access point and the device 200 based on detecting the periodic advertisement; means for receiving a synchronization message from the access point, the synchronization message identifying at least one of a periodic advertisement timing or a set of index values ​​used by the access point, the set of index values ​​including at least a first index value associated with the access point, the first index value indicating a first hopping sequence used by the access point; means for sending a periodic advertisement synchronized with a periodic advertisement timing used by the access point based on a second hopping sequence based at least in part on a second index value associated with the device 200, the second hopping sequence being orthogonal to the first hopping sequence; and the like. In some aspects, the device 200 includes: means for sending periodic advertisements; means for receiving a message from an access point that detects one or more of the periodic advertisements to initiate a connection between the device 200 and the access point; means for sending a synchronization message to the access point, the synchronization message identifying the periodic advertisement timing used by the device 200 or at least one of a set of index values ​​including an index value associated with the device 200, the index value indicating a hopping sequence used by the device 200; etc. In some aspects, the device 200 includes: means for receiving respective messages indicating detection of periodic advertisements from a plurality of access points, the plurality of access points being associated with respective index values ​​indicating a hopping sequence used by the plurality of access points; means for determining, for the access point, a leader access point from the plurality of access points and an index value indicating a hopping sequence orthogonal to each of the hopping sequences used by the plurality of access points; means for sending information identifying the access point and the index value to the leader access point; etc. In some aspects, the device 200 includes: means for receiving information identifying a set of index values ​​respectively associated with a plurality of access points, the set of index values ​​indicating a frequency hopping sequence used by the plurality of access points; means for detecting that synchronization between the device 200 and an access point of the plurality of access points has been lost; means for monitoring periodic advertisements broadcasted from at least one other access point of the plurality of access points according to the frequency hopping sequence indicated by the set of index values; means for detecting periodic advertisements broadcasted from another access point of the plurality of access points based at least in part on the monitoring for periodic advertisements; and the like. In some aspects, such means may include in conjunction with Figure 2 One or more components of device 200 are depicted, such as bus 205 , processor 210 , memory 215 , storage component 220 , input component 225 , output component 230 , and / or communication component 235 .

[0051] Figure 2 The number and arrangement of components shown in the figure are provided as examples. In practice, the device 200 may include Figure 2 Additional components, fewer components, different components, or differently arranged components than those shown in FIG. Additionally or alternatively, one set of components (eg, one or more components) of device 200 may perform one or more functions described as being performed by another set of components of device 200.

[0052] Figure 3A is a diagram illustrating an example 300 associated with discovery and synchronization between access points according to the present disclosure. As shown, example 300 includes multiple access points (e.g., access point 110), shown as AP1 to AP4. The access points can each be communicatively connected to a management entity (e.g., management entity 130). In some aspects, the access points and / or the management entity can be included in a wireless communication system (e.g., an ESL system). The wireless communication system can use wireless communication technology, such as BLE.

[0053] As used herein, "transmission timing" or "periodic advertisement timing" may refer to the timing or schedule at which a device (e.g., an access point) sends communications or periodic advertisements. For example, two devices that use (e.g., are synchronized to) the same periodic advertisement timing may send periodic advertisements at the same time.

[0054] As shown in reference numeral 305, access point AP1 may send (e.g., broadcast) a periodic announcement (e.g., a string of periodic announcements). The periodic announcement may be a unidirectional broadcast message. Access point AP1 may send the periodic announcement according to a periodic announcement with multiple responses (PAwMR) schedule. In addition, access point AP1 may send the periodic announcement using a first HFS. The first HFS may be an HFS configured for access point AP1 (e.g., if access point AP1 is not a follower of another access point), or the first HFS may be offset from a reference HFS based at least in part on a first index value associated with access point AP1 (e.g., selected by access point AP1).

[0055] As shown by reference numeral 310, the access point (AP2) can detect at least one periodic advertisement broadcasted from the access point AP1 (e.g., by scanning known channels on which the access point AP1 performs transmissions and / or by scanning or taking a snapshot of the entire frequency band). That is, the access point AP2 can discover the access point AP1. In some aspects, the access point AP2 can listen on one or more advertisement channels (e.g., traditional advertisement channels) to detect information that enables the access point AP2 to follow and synchronize with the access point AP1, thereby enabling the access point AP2 to monitor the periodic advertisements. In some aspects, the access point AP2 can monitor (e.g., listen) and detect the periodic advertisements before the periodic advertisement transmission is initiated by the access point AP2 (which can be referred to as a "detect before proceeding" strategy). For example, in a boot sequence during the startup (or restart) of the access point AP2, the access point AP2 can listen to the periodic advertisements from other access points before starting the periodic advertisement transmission. In some aspects, an access point (eg, an isolated access point) (eg, access point AP2) may periodically listen for periodic advertisements from neighboring access points.

[0056] As shown in reference numeral 315, based on detecting the periodic announcement from the access point AP1, the access point AP2 may send and the access point AP1 may receive a message (e.g., an unsolicited message) for initiating a connection between the access point AP1 and the access point AP2. As shown in reference numeral 320, after the connection, or as part of the connection process, the access point AP1 may send a synchronization message and the access point AP2 may receive a synchronization message. The synchronization message may identify the periodic announcement timing (e.g., PawMR scheduling) used by the access point AP1. For example, the synchronization message may include PAST information indicating the periodic announcement timing used by the access point AP1 (e.g., by indicating the time offset used by the access point AP1). Additionally or alternatively, the synchronization message may identify the first HFS used by the access point AP1. For example, the PAST information may also indicate the reference HFS used by the access point AP1, and the first HFS may be a reference HFS or an HFS offset (e.g., frequency shifted) from the reference HFS. For example, if the HFS is offset from a reference HFS, the channel index of the HFS is different from the channel index of the reference HFS at all frequency instances in the frequency sequence. In some aspects, the synchronization message may identify the first HFS used by access point AP1 by indicating a first index value associated with access point AP1 (e.g., the first HFS may be determined using the first index value and the reference HFS). For example, the synchronization message may indicate an index value set including the first index value and / or one or more additional index values ​​associated with additional access points known to access point AP1. In some aspects, the index value set may include an index value of access point AP2, which indicates the HFS to be used by access point AP2.

[0057] The exchange of periodic advertisement timing information (e.g., the exchange of PAST information) can enable access point AP2 to be synchronized with access point AP1. Therefore, in the same manner, multiple other access points can be synchronized to the same periodic advertisement timing. For example, as shown in the figure, access point AP3 can also be synchronized with access point AP1, and access point AP4 can be synchronized with access point AP3 (thereby causing access point AP4 to be synchronized with access point AP2 through transfer synchronization). In this way, multiple access points can become time synchronized with each other.

[0058] As indicated by reference numeral 325, based on receiving the synchronization message, access point AP2 may send a periodic announcement (e.g., transmission on a data channel) that is synchronized with the periodic announcement timing (e.g., PAwMR scheduling) used by access point AP1. In this way, access point AP1 and access point AP2 send periodic announcements at the same time. However, access point AP2 may send periodic announcements according to a second HFS. The second HFS may be offset (e.g., orthogonal) from the first HFS or reference HFS used by access point AP1. In other words, each access point (e.g., having physically overlapping coverage areas) may use an HFS that is orthogonal to the HFS of any other access point. By using an orthogonal HFS, interference between access points may be avoided even though the access points are time synchronized.

[0059] The second HFS may be based at least in part on a second index value associated with access point AP2 (e.g., different from the first index value). For example, each access point (e.g., having physically overlapping coverage areas) may be associated with a different index value from any other access point. Therefore, based at least in part on the set of index values ​​identified to access point AP2, access point AP2 may select a second index value to achieve an HFS that is orthogonal to every other HFS currently in use (e.g., within the radio frequency range of access point AP2). In some aspects, the second HFS may be based at least in part on an offset of the second index value relative to the first HFS or a reference HFS. For example, the second HFS may be determined according to the following equation 1:

[0060] HFS i = (HFS0 + index i )mod 37

[0061] Equation 1

[0062] Among them, HFS0 is the reference HFS, HFS i is the HFS being determined, and index i is an index value used to determine HFS. Equation 1 uses a value of 37 for the modulo operation because the BLE system uses 37 data channels. However, a different value for the modulo operation (eg, corresponding to the number of channels) may be used in other systems.

[0063] In some aspects, the index value may indicate the HFS in a manner different from that described above. That is, the index value may be any means for identifying a frequency hopping channel (or "channel selection") sequence. For example, each access point and each wireless communication device may be configured with a set of HFSs, and the index value may be mapped to a specific HFS in the set of HFSs. Thus, as described herein, an indication of a set of index values ​​may refer to an indication of all active (e.g., in use) HFSs in the set of HFSs.

[0064] In some aspects, access point AP1 may send information (e.g., PAST information) identifying the periodic advertisement timing used by access point AP1, and one or more wireless communication devices (e.g., wireless communication device 120) may receive the information (e.g., PAST information) identifying the periodic advertisement timing used by access point AP1. For example, access point AP1 may send information related to joining wireless communication devices to access point AP1. In some aspects, access point AP2 may send information (e.g., PAST information) identifying the periodic advertisement timing used by access point AP2, and one or more wireless communication devices (e.g., wireless communication device 120) may receive the information (e.g., PAST information) identifying the periodic advertisement timing used by access point AP2. For example, access point AP2 may send information to wireless communication devices that have already joined access point AP2, or access point AP2 may cause the wireless communication device to repeat the joining process with access point AP2, sending information during the joining process.

[0065] In some aspects, access point AP1 may transmit (e.g., via broadcast) information for identifying a set of index values ​​(e.g., one or more index values) indicating HFS used by one or more access points, and one or more wireless communication devices (e.g., wireless communication device 120) synchronized with access point AP1 may receive information for identifying a set of index values ​​(e.g., one or more index values) indicating HFS used by one or more access points. For example, the set of index values ​​may include a first index value associated with access point AP1, a second index value associated with access point AP2, and / or one or more additional index values ​​associated with another access point known to access point AP1. Similarly, in some aspects, access point AP2 may transmit (e.g., via broadcast) information for identifying a set of index values ​​(e.g., one or more index values) indicating HFS used by one or more access points, and one or more wireless communication devices (e.g., wireless communication device 120) synchronized with access point AP2 may receive information for identifying a set of index values ​​(e.g., one or more index values) indicating HFS used by one or more access points. For example, the one or more index values ​​may include a first index value associated with access point AP1, a second index value associated with access point AP2, and / or one or more additional index values ​​associated with additional access points known to access point AP2. In some aspects, access point AP1 and / or access point AP2 may receive information from a management entity indicating an index value in use (e.g., a valid index) for one or more additional access points.

[0066] Over time (e.g., due to clock drift), the periodic announcement timing used by access point AP1 and access point AP2 may be misaligned. As shown in reference numeral 330, access point AP2 can monitor (e.g., occasionally) additional periodic announcements from access point AP1 in monitoring opportunities. In other words, access point AP2 can sacrifice periodic announcement transmissions (e.g., for a specific group of wireless communication devices) in order to monitor additional periodic announcements from access point AP1. In some aspects, the monitoring opportunities in which access point AP2 monitors additional periodic announcements can be based at least in part on the expected clock drift between access point AP1 and access point AP2. Based on the timing of additional periodic announcements, the periodic announcement timing can be realigned between access point AP1 and access point AP2. For example, access point AP2 can be realigned with the periodic announcement timing used by access point AP1 based at least in part on the timing of additional periodic announcements (e.g., based at least in part on the difference between the actual timing of additional periodic announcements and the expected timing of additional periodic announcements).

[0067] In some examples, an access point that uses a transmission timing or schedule (e.g., a periodic advertisement timing or schedule) that another access point follows may be referred to as a "leader access point," and an access point that synchronizes its transmission timing or schedule to the transmission timing or schedule of another access point may be referred to as a "follower access point." For example, the transmission timing or schedule used by a first access point may be followed by a second access point, and a third access point may follow the transmission timing or schedule used by the second access point. Thus, in this example, the second access point is both a leader access point and a follower access point.

[0068] As mentioned above, Figure 3A are provided as examples. Other examples can be found in Figure 3A The examples described are different.

[0069] Figure 3B 3 is a diagram illustrating an example 350 associated with discovery and synchronization between access points according to the present disclosure. As shown, example 350 includes multiple access points (e.g., access point 110) shown as AP1 to AP4 and a management entity (e.g., management entity 130). The access points can each be communicatively connected to the management entity. In some aspects, the access points and / or the management entity can be included in a wireless communication system (e.g., an ESL system). The wireless communication system can use wireless communication technology such as BLE.

[0070] As shown at reference numeral 355, access point AP4 may send a registration message, and the management entity may receive the registration message. The registration message may indicate the identity of access point AP4 (e.g., BD_ADDR or other information sufficient for the management entity to identify the follower access point). Access point AP4 may send the registration message based at least in part on access point AP4 being out of synchronization with any other access point. For example, access point AP4 may be a new access point to the wireless communication system, or may have lost previous synchronization.

[0071] As shown in reference numeral 360, access point AP4 can send periodic advertisements, and multiple access points (AP1, AP2, and AP3) can detect one or more periodic advertisements. Access point AP4 can send periodic advertisements in a manner similar to that described above. In some aspects, the periodic advertisements can indicate the identity of access point AP4 (e.g., BD_ADDR).

[0072] As shown in reference numeral 365, based on the detection of the periodic advertisement, the plurality of access points AP1, AP2, AP3 may send corresponding messages indicating the detection of the periodic advertisement from the access point AP4, and the management entity may receive corresponding messages indicating the detection of the periodic advertisement from the access point AP4. The message from the access point may indicate the identity of the access point AP4 (e.g., from which the periodic advertisement is detected). Additionally or alternatively, the message may indicate the signal strength between the access point and the access point AP4. For example, the message may include a received signal strength indication (RSSI).

[0073] As shown by reference numeral 370, the management entity may determine (e.g., select) a leader access point for access point AP4 from among the plurality of access points AP1, AP2, AP3. For example, the management entity may compare the signal strengths reported by the plurality of access points AP1, AP2, AP3, and the management entity may select the access point that reported the best signal strength (e.g., highest RSSI) as the leader access point for access point AP4.

[0074] As indicated by reference numeral 375, the management entity may determine an index value indicating an HFS to be used by the access point AP4. For example, a plurality of access points AP1, AP2, AP3 may be associated with respective index values ​​indicating an HFS to be used by the plurality of access points AP1, AP2, AP3 (e.g., one of the HFSs is orthogonal to each of the other HFSs), and the management entity may determine an index value for the access point AP4 that is different from each of the index values ​​associated with the plurality of access points AP1, AP2, AP3. In other words, the index value determined for the access point AP4 may indicate an HFS that is orthogonal to each of the HFSs used by the plurality of access points AP1, AP2, AP3. The index value may be in combination with Figure 3A HFS is indicated in a similar manner as described.

[0075] As indicated by reference numeral 380, the management entity may send and the determined leader access point (AP2, as shown) may receive information (e.g., a synchronization message) that identifies access point AP4 (which the leader access point AP2 is to guide) and / or an index value determined by the management entity for access point AP4. The management entity may send the information to cause the leader access point AP2 to establish a connection with access point AP4. As indicated by reference numeral 385, the leader access point AP2 may send and access point AP4 may receive a message for initiating a connection between the leader access point AP2 and access point AP4, and the leader access point AP2 and access point AP4 may establish a connection, as described herein.

[0076] As indicated by reference numeral 390, after connection, or as part of the connection process, the leader access point AP2 may send and the access point AP4 may receive a synchronization message (e.g., PAST information) that identifies the periodic advertisement timing (e.g., PAwMR scheduling) and / or a set of index values ​​used by the leader access point AP2, as described herein. The set of index values ​​may include index values ​​associated with multiple access points AP1, AP2, AP3 (e.g., the index values ​​indicate the HFS used by the multiple access points AP1, AP2, AP3). Additionally or alternatively, the set of index values ​​may include an index value determined by the management entity for the access point AP4. Therefore, based on receiving the synchronization message, the access point AP4 may send periodic advertisements (e.g., a periodic advertisement string) that are synchronized with the periodic advertisement timing used by the leader access point AP2 and use the HFS indicated by the index value, as described herein.

[0077] As mentioned above, Figure 3B are provided as examples. Other examples can be found in Figure 3B The examples described are different.

[0078] Figure 4 4 is a diagram illustrating an example 400 associated with a handover of a wireless communication device according to the present disclosure. As shown, the example 400 includes a plurality of access points (e.g., access point 110) shown as a first access point (AP1) and a second access point (AP2), and at least one wireless communication device (e.g., wireless communication device 120). The access points and the wireless communication device may be included in a wireless communication system such as an ESL system. The wireless communication system may use wireless communication technology such as BLE. In some aspects, the wireless communication device is an ESL, includes an ESL, or is included in an ESL.

[0079] In some aspects, a wireless communication device may be included in a wireless communication device group. The wireless communication devices in the wireless communication device group may monitor periodic advertisements from an access point synchronized with the wireless communication device at periodic intervals that are less frequent than the frequency at which the access point sends periodic advertisements. For example, the wireless communication devices in the wireless communication device group may monitor periodic advertisements every 1.6 seconds, while the access point may send periodic advertisements every 12.5 milliseconds (ms). Thus, the wireless communication device may enter a sleep state or another type of low power state during a portion of the periodic interval in which the wireless communication device is not monitoring for periodic advertisements. In some aspects, a cycle of first periodic advertisement transmissions may be monitored by a first wireless communication device group, a cycle of second periodic advertisement transmissions (e.g., occurring 12.5 ms after the first periodic advertisement transmission) may be monitored by a second wireless communication device group, and so on. The access point's periodic advertisement timing may be synchronized, such as in conjunction with Figure 3A and / or Figure 3B as described.

[0080] The wireless communication device and the first access point may be Figure 4 The operation shown has already established synchronization. Figure 4 Prior to the operations shown in , the wireless communication device may receive information (e.g., PAST information) identifying a periodic advertisement timing and information identifying a set of index values ​​(e.g., multiple index values) respectively associated with multiple access points (e.g., including the first access point and / or the second access point) from the first access point, such as in combination with Figure 3A For example, a set of index values ​​may indicate HFS used by multiple access points.

[0081] As shown in reference numeral 405, the wireless communication device may detect that synchronization between the wireless communication device and a first access point (e.g., an access point associated with the wireless communication device and for which the wireless communication device monitors periodic advertisements) has been lost. As shown in reference numeral 410, based on detecting that synchronization has been lost, the wireless communication device may monitor periodic advertisements broadcast from one or more additional access points (e.g., a second access point) of the plurality of access points. Due to the time coordination of the access points, the wireless communication device does not need additional information about the periodic advertisement timing of the plurality of access points to monitor the periodic advertisements. Therefore, the wireless communication device may monitor the periodic advertisements from the one or more additional access points according to the same periodic advertisement timing used by the first access point. In this way, the wireless communication device may effectively identify the additional access point and quickly engage with the additional access point to enter into association with the additional access point.

[0082] The wireless communication device may monitor periodic advertisements (eg, in one or more channels) based on the HFS indicated by the set of index values. For example, for each index value, the wireless communication device may determine the HFS based at least in part on the index value (eg, in combination with Figure 3A Continuing with this example, the wireless communication device may monitor the periodic announcements in the channel indicated by the HFS. As described herein, the HFS for multiple access points may be time aligned. However, at any given time, each HFS may use a different channel than any other HFS to avoid interference.

[0083] In some aspects, to monitor periodic advertisements, the wireless communication device may search for periodic advertisements in one or more time periods specified for a wireless communication device group that includes the wireless communication device. However, the search performed by the wireless communication device may not be limited to those time periods. For example, the wireless communication device may monitor for periodic advertisements in a first time period and a second time period, the first time period being associated with monitoring for periodic advertisements for a first wireless communication device group that includes the wireless communication device, and the second time period being associated with monitoring for periodic advertisements for a second wireless communication device group that does not include the wireless communication device. Thus, the wireless communication device may monitor for periodic advertisements in a subframe interval (e.g., a 12.5 ms interval).

[0084] Based on monitoring the periodic advertisements, the wireless communication device may detect a periodic advertisement (e.g., a string of periodic advertisements) broadcast from a second access point, as indicated by reference numeral 415. In some aspects, the wireless communication device may detect periodic advertisements from multiple access points, and the wireless communication device may select the second access point from the multiple access points (e.g., based on a signal strength measurement or another metric associated with the periodic advertisements).

[0085] As shown in reference numeral 420, based on detecting the periodic advertisement from the second access point, the wireless communication device may send a first message, and the second access point may receive the first message to initiate a handover of the wireless communication device to the second access point. The first message may indicate the presence of the wireless communication device to the second access point. For example, the first message may indicate the identity of the wireless communication device (e.g., BD_ADDR or other information sufficient for the second access point to identify the wireless communication device). In some aspects, the wireless communication device may send the first message in a response time slot reserved by the second access point for such first messages (e.g., of the PAwMR string of the second access point). In some aspects, the first message may be an unsolicited message. In some aspects, the first message is not encrypted. In some aspects, the wireless communication device may send the first message one or more times (e.g., the wireless communication device may repeat the transmission of the first message) until the wireless communication device has been joined to the second access point (or another access point).

[0086] As shown in reference numeral 425, based on the second access point successfully receiving the first message, the second access point can send and the wireless communication device can receive a second message (e.g., an AUX_CONNECT_REQ message) to establish synchronization between the wireless communication device and the second access point. Therefore, the synchronization between the wireless communication device and the second access point can be established independently of (e.g., without using) a broadcast on the announcement channel. In other words, the synchronization can be established independently of (e.g., without using) the complete joining process described above. In some aspects, the second access point can send the second message in a fixed transmission opportunity (e.g., for sending such a second message). In this way, a lightweight and efficient process can be used to join the wireless communication device to the second access point. In some aspects, the first message and / or the second message may include an exchange of security elements (e.g., security certificates) between the wireless communication device and the second access point.

[0087] As mentioned above, Figure 4 are provided as examples. Other examples can be found in Figure 4 The examples described are different.

[0088] Figure 5 is a flow chart of an example process 500 associated with access point synchronization. In some aspects, Figure 5 One or more process blocks of are performed by an access point (e.g., access point 110). In some aspects, Figure 5 One or more process blocks of are performed by another device or group of devices separate from or including the access point, such as a wireless communication device (e.g., wireless communication device 120) and / or a management entity (e.g., management entity 130). Additionally or alternatively, Figure 5 One or more process blocks of may be performed by one or more components of the device 200 (eg, the processor 210, the memory 215, the storage component 220, the input component 225, the output component 230, and / or the communication component 235).

[0089] like Figure 5 As shown, process 500 may include detecting periodic advertisements broadcast from another access point (block 510). For example, an access point may detect periodic advertisements broadcast from another access point, as described above.

[0090] like Figure 5 As further shown in FIG. 5 , process 500 may include sending a message to another access point for initiating a connection between the another access point and the access point based on detecting the periodic advertisement (block 520). For example, as described above, the access point may send a message to another access point for initiating a connection between the another access point and the access point based on detecting the periodic advertisement.

[0091] like Figure 5 As further shown in FIG. 5 , process 500 may include receiving a synchronization message from another access point that identifies at least one of a periodic advertisement timing used by the other access point or a set of index values, the set of index values ​​including at least a first index value associated with the other access point, the first index value indicating a first frequency hopping sequence used by the other access point (block 530). For example, an access point may receive a synchronization message from another access point that identifies at least one of a periodic advertisement timing used by the other access point or a set of index values, the set of index values ​​including at least a first index value associated with the other access point. In some aspects, the first index value indicates a first frequency hopping sequence used by the other access point, as described above.

[0092] like Figure 5 As further shown in FIG. 5 , process 500 may include sending periodic advertisements that are synchronized with periodic advertisement timing used by another access point according to a second hopping sequence based at least in part on a second index value associated with the access point, the second hopping sequence being orthogonal to the first hopping sequence (block 540). For example, the access point may send periodic advertisements that are synchronized with periodic advertisement timing used by another access point according to a second hopping sequence based at least in part on a second index value associated with the access point. In some aspects, as described above, the second hopping sequence is orthogonal to the first hopping sequence.

[0093] Process 500 may include additional aspects, such as any single aspect or any combination of aspects described below and / or in combination with one or more other processes described elsewhere herein.

[0094] In a first aspect, process 500 includes monitoring another periodic advertisement broadcast from another access point, wherein periodic advertisement timing is realigned between the other access point and the access point based at least in part on the timing of the another periodic advertisement.

[0095] In a second aspect, alone or in combination with the first aspect, process 500 includes sending information identifying a periodic advertisement timing to one or more wireless communication devices.

[0096] In a third aspect, either alone or in combination with one or more of the first and second aspects, process 500 includes sending information identifying one or more index values ​​indicating a frequency hopping sequence to one or more wireless communication devices, the one or more index values ​​including at least one of the first index value or the second index value.

[0097] In a fourth aspect, alone or in combination with one or more of the first to third aspects, process 500 includes: receiving a first message from a wireless communication device to initiate a handover of the wireless communication device to an access point, the first message indicating an identity of the wireless communication device; and sending a second message to the wireless communication device to establish synchronization between the wireless communication device and the access point independent of a broadcast on an announcement channel.

[0098] In a fifth aspect alone or in combination with one or more of the first to fourth aspects, the periodic advertisement is detected before the access point initiates the transmission of the periodic advertisement.

[0099] In a sixth aspect, alone or in combination with one or more of the first to fifth aspects, the periodic announcement timing is indicated by PAST information.

[0100] In the seventh aspect, alone or in combination with one or more of the first to sixth aspects, the first hopping sequence is offset from the reference hopping sequence based at least in part on the first index value, and the second hopping sequence is offset from the reference hopping sequence based at least in part on the second index value.

[0101] although Figure 5 An example block diagram of process 500 is shown, but in some aspects, process 500 includes Figure 5 The blocks in the process 500 may include additional blocks, fewer blocks, different blocks, or differently arranged blocks than those depicted in the process 500. Additionally or alternatively, two or more blocks in the blocks of the process 500 may be executed in parallel.

[0102] Figure 6 600 is a flow chart of an example process 600 associated with access point synchronization. In some aspects, Figure 6 One or more process blocks of are performed by an access point (e.g., access point 110). In some aspects, Figure 6 One or more process blocks of are performed by another device or group of devices separate from or including the access point, such as a wireless communication device (e.g., wireless communication device 120) and / or a management entity (e.g., management entity 130). Additionally or alternatively, Figure 6 One or more process blocks of may be performed by one or more components of the device 200 (eg, the processor 210, the memory 215, the storage component 220, the input component 225, the output component 230, and / or the communication component 235).

[0103] like Figure 6 As shown, process 600 may include sending periodic advertisements (block 610). For example, as described above, an access point may send periodic advertisements.

[0104] like Figure 6As further shown in FIG. 6 , process 600 may include receiving a message for initiating a connection between the access point and the other access point from another access point that detects one or more of the periodic advertisements (block 620). For example, as described above, the access point may receive a message for initiating a connection between the access point and the other access point from another access point that detects one or more of the periodic advertisements.

[0105] like Figure 6 As further shown in FIG. 6 , process 600 may include sending a synchronization message to another access point, the synchronization message identifying at least one of a periodic advertisement timing used by the access point or a set of index values, the set of index values ​​including at least an index value associated with the access point, the index value indicating a frequency hopping sequence used by the access point (block 630). For example, an access point may send a synchronization message to another access point, the synchronization message identifying at least one of a periodic advertisement timing used by the access point or a set of index values, the set of index values ​​including at least an index value associated with the access point, the index value indicating a frequency hopping sequence used by the access point, as described above.

[0106] Process 600 may include additional aspects, such as any single aspect or any combination of aspects described below and / or in combination with one or more other processes described elsewhere herein.

[0107] In a first aspect, process 600 includes sending information identifying a periodic advertisement timing to one or more wireless communication devices.

[0108] In a second aspect, alone or in combination with the first aspect, process 600 includes sending information identifying one or more index values ​​indicative of a frequency hopping sequence to one or more wireless communication devices, the one or more index values ​​comprising at least an index value.

[0109] In a third aspect, alone or in combination with one or more of the first and second aspects, process 600 includes receiving a first message from a wireless communication device to initiate a handover of the wireless communication device to an access point, the first message indicating an identity of the wireless communication device, and sending a second message to the wireless communication device to establish synchronization between the wireless communication device and the access point independent of a broadcast on an announcement channel.

[0110] In the fourth aspect alone or in combination with one or more of the first to third aspects, the periodic announcement timing is indicated by PAST information.

[0111] In a fifth aspect alone or in combination with one or more of the first to fourth aspects, a frequency hopping sequence is offset from a reference frequency hopping sequence based at least in part on an index value.

[0112] although Figure 6An example block diagram of process 600 is shown, but in some aspects, process 600 includes Figure 6 The blocks in the process 600 may include additional blocks, fewer blocks, different blocks, or differently arranged blocks than those depicted in the process 600. Additionally or alternatively, two or more blocks in the blocks of the process 600 may be executed in parallel.

[0113] Figure 7 is a flow diagram of an example process 700 associated with access point synchronization. In some aspects, Figure 7 One or more process blocks of are performed by a management entity (e.g., management entity 130). In some aspects, Figure 7 One or more process blocks of are performed by another device or group of devices separate from or including the management entity, such as an access point (e.g., access point 110) and / or a wireless communication device (e.g., wireless communication device 120). Additionally or alternatively, Figure 7 One or more process blocks of may be performed by one or more components of the device 200 (eg, the processor 210, the memory 215, the storage component 220, the input component 225, the output component 230, and / or the communication component 235).

[0114] like Figure 7 As shown, process 700 may include receiving respective messages from a plurality of access points indicating detection of periodic advertisements from an access point, the plurality of access points being associated with respective index values ​​indicating frequency hopping sequences used by the plurality of access points (block 710). For example, a management entity may receive respective messages from a plurality of access points indicating detection of periodic advertisements from an access point. In some aspects, the plurality of access points may be associated with respective index values ​​indicating frequency hopping sequences used by the plurality of access points, as described above.

[0115] like Figure 7 As further shown in FIG. 7 , process 700 may include determining, for an access point, a leader access point from among the plurality of access points and determining an index value indicating a frequency hopping sequence, the frequency hopping sequence being orthogonal to each of the frequency hopping sequences used by the plurality of access points (block 720). For example, the management entity may determine, for an access point, a leader access point from among the plurality of access points and determine an index value indicating the frequency hopping sequence. In some aspects, the frequency hopping sequence may be orthogonal to each of the frequency hopping sequences used by the plurality of access points, as described above.

[0116] like Figure 7 As further shown in FIG. 7 , process 700 may include sending information identifying the access point and the index value to the leader access point (block 830). For example, the management entity may send information identifying the access point and the index value to the leader access point, as described above.

[0117] Process 700 may include additional aspects, such as any single aspect or any combination of aspects described below and / or in combination with one or more other processes described elsewhere herein.

[0118] In a first aspect, the respective message indicates a respective received signal strength indication.

[0119] In a second aspect alone or in combination with the first aspect, the leader access point is determined based at least in part on respective signal strengths between a plurality of access points and the access point.

[0120] In a third aspect, alone or in combination with one or more of the first and second aspects, information is sent to a leader access point to cause the leader access point to establish a connection with an access point.

[0121] although Figure 7 An example block diagram of process 700 is shown, but in some aspects, process 700 includes Figure 7 The blocks in the process 700 may include additional blocks, fewer blocks, different blocks, or differently arranged blocks than those depicted in the process 700. Additionally or alternatively, two or more blocks in the blocks of the process 700 may be executed in parallel.

[0122] Figure 8 is a flow chart of an example process 800 associated with handover of a wireless communication device. In some aspects, Figure 8 One or more process blocks of are performed by a wireless communication device (eg, wireless communication device 120). In some aspects, Figure 8 One or more process blocks of are performed by another device or group of devices separate from or including the wireless communication device, such as an access point (e.g., access point 110) and / or a management entity (e.g., management entity 130). Additionally or alternatively, Figure 8 One or more process blocks of may be performed by one or more components of the device 200 (eg, the processor 210, the memory 215, the storage component 220, the input component 225, the output component 230, and / or the communication component 235).

[0123] like Figure 8 As shown, process 800 may include receiving information identifying a set of index values, the index values ​​being respectively associated with a plurality of access points, the set of index values ​​indicating a frequency hopping sequence used by the plurality of access points (block 810). For example, a wireless communication device may receive information identifying a set of index values, the index values ​​being respectively associated with a plurality of access points. In some aspects, the set of index values ​​may indicate a frequency hopping sequence used by the plurality of access points, as described above.

[0124] like Figure 8As further shown in FIG. 8 , process 800 may include detecting that synchronization between the wireless communication device and one of the plurality of access points has been lost (block 820). For example, the wireless communication device may detect that synchronization between the wireless communication device and one of the plurality of access points has been lost, as described above.

[0125] like Figure 8 As further shown in FIG. 8 , process 800 may include monitoring periodic advertisements broadcast from at least one other access point in the plurality of access points according to a frequency hopping sequence indicated by the set of index values ​​(block 830). For example, the wireless communication device may monitor periodic advertisements broadcast from at least one other access point in the plurality of access points according to a frequency hopping sequence indicated by the set of index values, as described above.

[0126] like Figure 8 As further shown in FIG. 8 , process 800 may include detecting periodic advertisements broadcast from additional access points in the plurality of access points based at least in part on monitoring the periodic advertisements (block 840). For example, the wireless communication device may detect periodic advertisements broadcast from additional access points in the plurality of access points based at least in part on monitoring the periodic advertisements, as described above.

[0127] Process 800 may include additional aspects, such as any single aspect or any combination of aspects described below and / or in combination with one or more other processes described elsewhere herein.

[0128] In a first aspect, process 800 includes sending a first message to an additional access point to initiate a handoff of a wireless communication device to the additional access point, the first message indicating an identity of the wireless communication device, and receiving a second message from the additional access point to establish synchronization between the wireless communication device and the additional access point independent of broadcasting on an announcement channel.

[0129] In the second aspect, alone or in combination with the first aspect, periodic announcements are monitored in a first time period and a second time period, the first time period being associated with monitoring periodic announcements for a first wireless communication device group including the wireless communication device, and the second time period being associated with monitoring periodic announcements for a second wireless communication device group not including the wireless communication device.

[0130] In a third aspect alone or in combination with the first aspect, the periodic advertisement transmissions of the plurality of access points are time synchronized.

[0131] although Figure 8 An example block diagram of process 800 is shown, but in some aspects, process 800 includes Figure 8The blocks in the process 800 may include additional blocks, fewer blocks, different blocks, or differently arranged blocks than those depicted in the process 800. Additionally or alternatively, two or more blocks in the blocks of the process 800 may be executed in parallel.

[0132] The following provides an overview of some aspects of the disclosure:

[0133] Aspect 1: A method performed by an access point, comprising: detecting a periodic announcement broadcast from another access point; based on detecting the periodic announcement, sending a message to the other access point to initiate a connection between the other access point and the access point; receiving a synchronization message from the other access point, the synchronization message identifying at least one of a periodic announcement timing or an index value set used by the access point, the index value set including at least an index value associated with the access point, the first index value indicating a first hopping sequence used by the other access point; and sending a periodic announcement synchronized with the periodic announcement timing used by the other access point based on a second hopping sequence based at least in part on a second index value associated with the access point, the second hopping sequence being orthogonal to the first hopping sequence.

[0134] Aspect 2: The method according to aspect 1 also includes: monitoring additional periodic advertisements broadcast from the other access point, wherein the periodic advertisement timing is realigned between the other access point and the access point at least in part based on the timing of the additional periodic advertisements.

[0135] Aspect 3: The method according to any one of aspects 1-2 further includes: sending information identifying the periodic notification timing to one or more wireless communication devices.

[0136] Aspect 4: The method according to any one of Aspects 1-3 further includes: sending information identifying one or more index values ​​indicating a frequency hopping sequence to one or more wireless communication devices, wherein the one or more index values ​​include at least one of a first index value or a second index value.

[0137] Aspect 5: The method according to any one of Aspects 1-4 further includes: receiving a first message from a wireless communication device to initiate switching of the wireless communication device to the access point, the first message indicating the identity of the wireless communication device; and sending a second message to the wireless communication device to establish synchronization between the wireless communication device and the access point independently of the broadcast on the notification channel.

[0138] Aspect 6: The method according to any one of aspects 1-5, wherein the periodic advertisement is detected before the access point initiates the transmission of the periodic advertisement.

[0139] Aspect 7: The method according to any one of aspects 1 to 6, wherein the periodic announcement timing is indicated by periodic announcement synchronization transmission (PAST) information.

[0140] Aspect 8: The method according to any of aspects 1-7, wherein the first hopping sequence is offset from the reference hopping sequence based at least in part on the first index value, and wherein the second hopping sequence is offset from the reference hopping sequence based at least in part on the second index value.

[0141] Aspect 9: A method performed by an access point, comprising: sending periodic announcements; receiving a message from another access point that detects one or more of the periodic announcements to initiate a connection between the access point and the other access point; and sending a synchronization message to the other access point, the synchronization message identifying at least one of the periodic announcement timing or an index value set used by the access point, the index value set including at least an index value associated with the access point, the index value indicating a frequency hopping sequence used by the access point.

[0142] Aspect 10: The method according to aspect 9 further comprises: sending information identifying the periodic notification timing to one or more wireless communication devices.

[0143] Aspect 11: The method according to any one of Aspects 9-10 further includes: sending information identifying one or more index values ​​indicating a frequency hopping sequence to one or more wireless communication devices, the one or more index values ​​at least including the index value.

[0144] Aspect 12: The method according to any one of Aspects 9-11 further includes: receiving a first message from a wireless communication device to initiate switching of the wireless communication device to the access point, the first message indicating the identity of the wireless communication device; and sending a second message to the wireless communication device to establish synchronization between the wireless communication device and the access point independently of the broadcast on the notification channel.

[0145] Aspect 13: The method according to any one of aspects 9 to 12, wherein the periodic announcement timing is indicated by periodic announcement synchronization transmission (PAST) information.

[0146] Aspect 14: The method according to any one of aspects 9-13, wherein the hopping sequence is offset from a reference hopping sequence based at least in part on the index value.

[0147] Aspect 15: A method performed by a management entity, comprising: receiving corresponding messages from multiple access points indicating detection of periodic announcements from access points, the multiple access points being associated with corresponding index values ​​indicating frequency hopping sequences used by the multiple access points; for the access points, determining a leader access point from the multiple access points and an index value indicating a frequency hopping sequence, the frequency hopping sequence being orthogonal to each of the frequency hopping sequences used by the multiple access points; and sending information identifying the access point and the index value to the leader access point.

[0148] Aspect 16: The method according to aspect 15, wherein the corresponding message indicates a corresponding received signal strength indication.

[0149] Aspect 17: The method according to any of aspects 15-16, wherein the leader access point is determined at least in part based on respective signal strengths between the plurality of access points and the access point.

[0150] Aspect 18: The method according to any one of aspects 15-17, wherein the information is sent to the leader access point to enable the leader access point to establish a connection with the access point.

[0151] Aspect 19: A method performed by a wireless communication device, comprising: receiving information identifying a set of index values ​​respectively associated with multiple access points, the set of index values ​​indicating a frequency hopping sequence used by the multiple access points; detecting that synchronization between the wireless communication device and one of the multiple access points has been lost; monitoring periodic announcements broadcast from at least one other access point among the multiple access points based on the frequency hopping sequence indicated by the set of index values; and detecting periodic announcements broadcast from another access point among the multiple access points based at least in part on monitoring the periodic announcements.

[0152] Aspect 20: The method according to Aspect 19 further includes: sending a first message to the other access point to initiate switching of the wireless communication device to the other access point, the first message indicating the identity of the wireless communication device; and receiving a second message from the other access point to establish synchronization between the wireless communication device and the other access point independently of the broadcast on the announcement channel.

[0153] Aspect 21: A method according to any one of Aspects 19-20, wherein the periodic announcement is monitored in a first time period and a second time period, the first time period is associated with periodic announcement monitoring for a first wireless communication device group including the wireless communication device, and the second time period is associated with periodic announcement monitoring for a second wireless communication device group that does not include the wireless communication device.

[0154] Aspect 22: The method according to any one of aspects 19-21, wherein the periodic advertisement transmissions of the plurality of access points are time synchronized.

[0155] Aspect 23: An apparatus for wireless communication at a device, comprising: a processor; a memory coupled to the processor; and instructions stored in the memory and executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to perform one or more methods of Aspects 1-8.

[0156] Aspect 24: A device for wireless communication, comprising a memory and one or more processors coupled to the memory, the one or more processors being configured to perform one or more of the methods of aspects 1-8.

[0157] Aspect 25: An apparatus for wireless communication, comprising at least one means for performing the method according to one or more of aspects 1-8.

[0158] Aspect 26: A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing code for wireless communication, the code comprising instructions executable by a processor to perform a method according to one or more of aspects 1-8.

[0159] Aspect 27: A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing an instruction set for wireless communication, the instruction set comprising one or more instructions that, when executed by one or more processors of a device, cause the device to perform one or more of the methods of aspects 1-8.

[0160] Aspect 28: An apparatus for wireless communication at a device, comprising: a processor; a memory coupled to the processor; and instructions stored in the memory and executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to perform one or more methods of Aspects 9-14.

[0161] Aspect 29: A device for wireless communication, comprising a memory and one or more processors coupled to the memory, the one or more processors being configured to perform one or more of the methods of aspects 9-14.

[0162] Aspect 30: An apparatus for wireless communication, comprising at least one means for performing the method according to one or more of aspects 9-14.

[0163] Aspect 31: A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing code for wireless communication, the code comprising instructions executable by a processor to perform a method according to one or more of aspects 9-14.

[0164] Aspect 32: A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing an instruction set for wireless communication, the instruction set comprising one or more instructions that, when executed by one or more processors of a device, cause the device to perform the method of one or more of aspects 9-14.

[0165] Aspect 33: An apparatus for wireless communication at a device, comprising: a processor; a memory coupled to the processor; and instructions stored in the memory and executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to perform one or more methods of Aspects 15-18.

[0166] Aspect 34: An apparatus for wireless communication, comprising a memory and one or more processors coupled to the memory, the one or more processors configured to perform the method according to one or more of aspects 15-18.

[0167] Aspect 35: An apparatus for wireless communication, comprising at least one means for performing the method according to one or more of aspects 15-18.

[0168] Aspect 36: A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing code for wireless communication, the code comprising instructions executable by a processor to perform the method according to one or more of aspects 15-18.

[0169] Aspect 37: A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing an instruction set for wireless communication, the instructions including one or more instructions that, when executed by one or more processors of a device, cause the device to perform the method of one or more of aspects 15-18.

[0170] Aspect 38: An apparatus for wireless communication at a device, comprising: a processor; a memory coupled to the processor; and instructions stored in the memory and executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to perform one or more methods of Aspects 19-22.

[0171] Aspect 39: A device for wireless communication, comprising a memory and one or more processors coupled to the memory, the one or more processors being configured to perform one or more of the methods of aspects 19-22.

[0172] Aspect 40: An apparatus for wireless communication, comprising at least one means for performing the method according to one or more of aspects 19-22.

[0173] Aspect 41: A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing code for wireless communication, the code comprising instructions executable by a processor to perform a method according to one or more of aspects 19-22.

[0174] Aspect 42: A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing an instruction set for wireless communication, the instruction set comprising one or more instructions that, when executed by one or more processors of a device, cause the device to perform the method of one or more of aspects 19-22.

[0175] The foregoing disclosure provides illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the various aspects to the precise forms disclosed. Modifications and variations may be made based on the foregoing disclosure, or may be acquired from the practice of various aspects.

[0176] As used herein, the term "component" is intended to be broadly interpreted as a combination of hardware and / or hardware and software. Whether referred to as software, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description language or other terms, "software" should be broadly interpreted as meaning instructions, instruction sets, codes, code segments, program codes, programs, subroutines, software modules, applications, software applications, software packages, routines, subroutines, objects, executable files, execution threads, processes and / or functions, and other examples. As used herein, a "processor" is implemented with a combination of hardware and / or hardware and software. It is obvious that the system and / or method described herein can be implemented with a combination of hardware and / or hardware and software in different forms. The actual dedicated control hardware or software code used to implement these systems and / or methods does not limit these aspects. Therefore, the operation and behavior of the system and / or method are described herein without reference to specific software codes, because those skilled in the art will understand that software and hardware can be designed to implement the system and / or method based at least in part on the description herein.

[0177] As used herein, "satisfying a threshold" may refer to a value greater than a threshold, greater than or equal to a threshold, less than a threshold, less than or equal to a threshold, equal to a threshold, not equal to a threshold, etc., depending on the context.

[0178] Even if a specific combination of features is described in the claims and / or disclosed in the specification, these combinations are not intended to limit the disclosure of each aspect. Many of these features can be combined in a manner not specifically described in the claims and / or not disclosed in the specification. The disclosure of each aspect includes the combination of each dependent claim with each other claim in the claim set. As used herein, the phrase "at least one" mentioned in the list of items refers to any combination of these items, including a single member. As an example, "at least one of a, b or c" is intended to cover a, b, c, a+b, a+c, b+c and a+b+c, and any combination with multiple identical elements (e.g., a+a, a+a+a, a+a+b, a+a+c, a+b+b, a+c+c, b+b, b+b+b, b+b+c, c+c and c+c+c. Or any other ordering of a, b and c).

[0179] Unless explicitly described as such, the elements, actions, or instructions used herein should not be interpreted as critical or essential. Furthermore, as used herein, the articles "a" and "an" are intended to include one or more items and can be used interchangeably with "one or more." Furthermore, as used herein, the articles "the" and "the" are intended to include one or more items referenced in conjunction with the article "the" and can be used interchangeably with "one or more." Furthermore, as used herein, the terms "set" and "group" are intended to include one or more items and can be used interchangeably with "one or more." Figure 1 In the case of multiple items, the phrase "only one" or similar language is used. In addition, as used herein, the terms "having" and the like are intended to be open-ended terms that do not limit the elements they modify (e.g., an element "having" A may also have B). In addition, unless otherwise expressly stated, the phrase "based on" is intended to mean "based at least in part on". In addition, as used herein, the term "or" is intended to be inclusive when used in series and can be used interchangeably with "and / or" unless otherwise expressly stated (e.g., if used in combination with "either" or "only one of").

Claims

1. A method performed by an access point, comprising: Detecting periodic advertisements broadcast from another access point; Based on detecting the periodic advertisement, sending a message to the another access point to initiate a connection between the another access point and the access point; receiving a synchronization message from the other access point, the synchronization message identifying at least one of a periodic advertisement timing used by the other access point or a set of index values, the set of index values ​​including a first index value associated with the other access point, the first index value indicating a first frequency hopping sequence used by the other access point; and Periodic advertisements synchronized with the periodic advertisement timing used by the other access point are transmitted according to a second frequency hopping sequence based at least in part on a second index value associated with the access point, the second frequency hopping sequence being orthogonal to the first frequency hopping sequence.

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: monitoring further periodic advertisements broadcast from said another access point, wherein the periodic advertisement timing is realigned between the another access point and the access point based at least in part on the timing of the additional periodic advertisements.

3. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: Information identifying the periodic advertisement timing is sent to one or more wireless communication devices.

4. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: Information identifying one or more index values ​​indicative of a frequency hopping sequence is sent to one or more wireless communication devices, the one or more index values ​​including at least one of the first index value or the second index value.

5. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: receiving a first message from a wireless communication device to initiate a handover of the wireless communication device to the access point, the first message indicating an identity of the wireless communication device; as well as A second message is sent to the wireless communication device to establish synchronization between the wireless communication device and the access point independent of the broadcast on the announcement channel.

6. The method according to claim 1, wherein: The periodic advertisement is detected before the access point initiates transmission of the periodic advertisement.

7. The method according to claim 1, wherein: The periodic announcement timing is indicated by periodic announcement synchronization transmission (PAST) information.

8. The method according to claim 1, wherein: The first frequency hopping sequence is offset from a reference frequency hopping sequence based at least in part on the first index value, and The second frequency hopping sequence is offset from the reference frequency hopping sequence based at least in part on the second index value.

9. A method performed by an access point, comprising: Send periodic notifications; receiving a message from another access point that detects one or more of the periodic advertisements to initiate a connection between the access point and the another access point; as well as A synchronization message is sent to the other access point, the synchronization message identifying at least one of a periodic advertisement timing used by the access point or an index value set, the index value set including at least an index value associated with the access point, the index value indicating a frequency hopping sequence used by the access point.

10. The method according to claim 9, further comprising: Information identifying the periodic advertisement timing is sent to one or more wireless communication devices.

11. The method according to claim 9, further comprising: Information identifying one or more index values ​​indicative of a frequency hopping sequence is sent to one or more wireless communication devices, the one or more index values ​​including at least the index value.

12. The method according to claim 9, further comprising: receiving a first message from a wireless communication device to initiate a handover of the wireless communication device to the access point, the first message indicating an identity of the wireless communication device; as well as A second message is sent to the wireless communication device to establish synchronization between the wireless communication device and the access point independent of the broadcast on the announcement channel.

13. The method according to claim 9, wherein: The periodic announcement timing is indicated by periodic announcement synchronization transmission (PAST) information.

14. The method according to claim 9, wherein: The hopping sequence is offset from a reference hopping sequence based at least in part on the index value.

15. A method performed by a management entity, comprising: receiving respective messages from a plurality of access points indicating detection of periodic advertisements from access points, the plurality of access points being associated with respective index values ​​indicative of frequency hopping sequences used by the plurality of access points; For the access point, determining a leader access point from the plurality of access points and an index value indicating a frequency hopping sequence, the frequency hopping sequence being orthogonal to each of the frequency hopping sequences used by the plurality of access points; and Information identifying the access point and the index value is sent to the leader access point.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein: The corresponding message indicates a corresponding received signal strength indication.

17. The method according to claim 15, wherein: The leader access point is determined based at least in part on respective signal strengths between the plurality of access points and the access point.

18. The method according to claim 15, wherein: The information is sent to the leader access point to enable the leader access point to establish a connection with an access point.

19. A method performed by a wireless communication device, comprising: receiving information identifying a set of index values ​​respectively associated with a plurality of access points, the set of index values ​​indicating frequency hopping sequences used by the plurality of access points; detecting that synchronization between the wireless communication device and one of the plurality of access points has been lost; monitoring, according to a frequency hopping sequence indicated by the set of index values, periodic advertisements broadcast from at least one other access point of the plurality of access points; as well as Periodic advertisements broadcast from additional access points of the plurality of access points are detected based at least in part on monitoring the periodic advertisements.

20. The method according to claim 19, further comprising: sending a first message to the additional access point to initiate handover of the wireless communication device to the additional access point, the first message indicating an identity of the wireless communication device; as well as A second message is received from the additional access point to establish synchronization between the wireless communication device and the additional access point independent of the broadcast on the announcement channel.

21. The method according to claim 19, wherein: The periodic advertisements are monitored during a first time period and a second time period, the first time period being associated with periodic advertisement monitoring for a first wireless communication device group including the wireless communication device, and the second time period being associated with periodic advertisement monitoring for a second wireless communication device group not including the wireless communication device.

22. The method according to claim 19, wherein: The periodic advertisement transmissions of the plurality of access points are time synchronized.

23. An access point, comprising: one or more memories; as well as One or more processors coupled to the one or more memories, the one or more processors configured to: Detecting periodic advertisements broadcast from another access point; Based on detecting the periodic advertisement, sending a message to the another access point to initiate a connection between the another access point and the access point; receiving a synchronization message from the other access point, the synchronization message identifying at least one of a periodic advertisement timing used by the other access point or a set of index values, the set of index values ​​including at least a first index value associated with the other access point, the first index value indicating a first frequency hopping sequence used by the other access point; and Periodic advertisements synchronized with the periodic advertisement timing used by the other access point are transmitted according to a second frequency hopping sequence based at least in part on a second index value associated with the access point, the second frequency hopping sequence being orthogonal to the first frequency hopping sequence.

24. The access point of claim 23, wherein: The one or more processors are further configured to: monitoring further periodic advertisements broadcast from said another access point, wherein the periodic advertisement timing is realigned between the another access point and the access point based at least in part on the timing of the additional periodic advertisements.

25. The access point of claim 23, wherein: The one or more processors are further configured to: Information identifying the periodic advertisement timing is sent to one or more wireless communication devices.

26. The access point of claim 23, wherein: The one or more processors are further configured to: Information identifying one or more index values ​​indicative of a frequency hopping sequence is sent to one or more wireless communication devices, the one or more index values ​​including at least one of the first index value or the second index value.

27. The access point of claim 23, wherein: The one or more processors are further configured to: receiving a first message from a wireless communication device to initiate a handover of the wireless communication device to the access point, the first message indicating an identity of the wireless communication device; as well as A second message is sent to the wireless communication device to establish synchronization between the wireless communication device and the access point independent of broadcasting on the announcement channel.

28. The access point of claim 23, wherein: The periodic advertisements are detected prior to initiation of transmission of the periodic advertisements by the access point.

29. The access point of claim 23, wherein: The periodic announcement timing is indicated by periodic announcement synchronization transmission (PAST) information.

30. The access point of claim 23, wherein: The first frequency hopping sequence is offset from a reference frequency hopping sequence based at least in part on the first index value, and The second frequency hopping sequence is offset from the reference frequency hopping sequence based at least in part on the second index value.

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