Electronic device for performing data communication and method of operating same

Abstract

Various embodiments of the present invention relate to a device and method for scheduling data communication links in an electronic device. The electronic device includes communication circuitry and a processor, wherein the processor may: configure the NDP for data communication with an external electronic device included in the NAN cluster based on first scheduling information; storing information related to the NDP based on switching to a low power mode associated with the NDP connection; maintaining synchronization with the external electronic device based on second scheduling information different from the first scheduling information; and in a case where the data communication with the external electronic device is performed, performing data communication with the external electronic device through the NDP to the external electronic device based on the information related to the NDP. Other embodiments are also possible.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of this disclosure relate to an electronic device for performing data communication and a method of operating the electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] Due to advancements in information and communication technologies and semiconductor technologies, various electronic devices are used. These devices can utilize low-power discovery technologies to provide various types of proximity services. These proximity services can indicate communication capabilities that allow neighboring electronic devices to rapidly exchange data over a proximity network. For example, proximity services may include low-power proximity services using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) beacons or low-power short-range communication (NNSM) based technologies such as Neighbor Aware Networks (NAN) and / or Wi-Fi Awareness (hereinafter referred to as "NAN"). NNSM technologies are based on Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs).

[0003] NAN-based low-power proximity services can indicate communication functions for exchanging data within a proximity network configured to dynamically change depending on the movement of electronic devices. Electronic devices included in a cluster can send and / or receive signals (e.g., synchronization beacons) and service discovery frames (SDFs) for discovery, to notify of the cluster's presence or to perform synchronization for a duration (or communication direction) (e.g., discovery window (DW)). For example, a cluster can refer to a collection of electronic devices included in a proximity network. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Solution to the problem

[0005] Electronic devices included in a cluster can configure (or generate) NAN data paths (NDPs) to perform data communication in portions other than the discovery window (DW). For example, electronic devices included in a cluster can configure time slots (e.g., additional available windows (FAWs)) for data transmission in portions between discovery windows through a process of exchanging SDFs and configuring data paths with external electronic devices. Electronic devices can send data to and / or receive data from external electronic devices through the time slots configured between discovery windows.

[0006] When data communication with an external electronic device ends, the electronic device can release the NAN data path (e.g., NDP) with the external electronic device. When data communication with an external electronic device is required, the electronic device can reconfigure the NAN data path by exchanging SDF and configuring the data path with the external electronic device.

[0007] Whenever data communication with an external electronic device is required, the electronic device may repeatedly perform the process of exchanging SDF and configuring the data path to configure the NAN data path, which may delay data communication with the external electronic device.

[0008] Embodiments of this disclosure disclose an apparatus and method for performing data communication between an electronic device and an external electronic device via an NDP.

[0009] The technical topics pursued in this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and other technical topics not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description.

[0010] According to an embodiment, the electronic device may include communication circuitry and a processor operatively connected to the communication circuitry. According to an embodiment, the processor may configure a NAN data path (NDP) for data communication with an external electronic device included in the NAN cluster based on first scheduling information. According to an embodiment, the processor may be configured to store information related to the NDP based on switching to a low-power mode associated with the NDP connection. According to an embodiment, the processor may be configured to maintain synchronization with the external electronic device based on second scheduling information different from the first scheduling information. According to an embodiment, when performing data communication with the external electronic device, the processor may perform data communication with the external electronic device via the NDP based on the information associated with the NDP.

[0011] According to an embodiment, a method of operating an electronic device may include: configuring a NAN data path (NDP) based on first scheduling information for data communication with an external electronic device included in a NAN cluster. According to an embodiment, the method of operating the electronic device may include: storing information related to the NDP based on switching to a low-power mode associated with the NDP connection. According to an embodiment, the method of operating the electronic device may include: maintaining synchronization with the external electronic device based on second scheduling information different from the first scheduling information. According to an embodiment, the method of operating the electronic device may include: performing data communication with the external electronic device via the NDP based on the information associated with the NDP, when performing data communication with the external electronic device.

[0012] According to an embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium (or computer program product) for storing one or more programs can be described. According to an embodiment, the one or more programs may include instructions configured, when executed by a processor of an electronic device, to perform the following operations: configure a NAN data path (NDP) based on first scheduling information for data communication with an external electronic device included in a Neighbor Aware Network (NAN) cluster; store information related to the NDP based on switching to a low-power mode associated with the NDP connection; maintain synchronization with the external electronic device based on second scheduling information different from the first scheduling information; and, in the case of performing the data communication with the external electronic device, perform data communication with the external electronic device via the NDP based on the information associated with the NDP.

[0013] According to embodiments of this disclosure, when an electronic device stores information related to an NDP configured with an external electronic device in a low-power mode, and performs data communication with the external electronic device while maintaining synchronization with it, the electronic device can perform data communication with the external electronic device based on the information related to the NDP without any process of configuring the NDP with the external electronic device, thereby reducing the latency of data communication with the external electronic device.

[0014] The effects that can be obtained from the various embodiments of this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and based on the following description, those skilled in the art to which the various embodiments of this disclosure pertain will clearly understand other effects not mentioned. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment according to an embodiment.

[0016] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating a NAN cluster according to an embodiment.

[0017] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating a protocol for transmitting signals from electronic devices included in a NAN cluster, according to an embodiment.

[0018] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of sending and / or receiving data within a NAN cluster according to an embodiment.

[0019] Figure 5 This is a block diagram of an electronic device for data communication according to an embodiment.

[0020] Figure 6 This is an example of an NDP (Network Device Configuration) for electronic devices and external electronic devices according to an embodiment.

[0021] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating data communication between an electronic device and an external electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0022] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating the synchronization between an electronic device and an external electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0023] Figure 9 An example is shown where an electronic device keeps synchronized with an external electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0024] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the synchronization between an electronic device and an external electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0025] Figure 11 An example is shown where an electronic device keeps synchronized with an external electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0026] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating how an electronic device performs data communication with an external electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0027] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating how an electronic device performs data communication with an external electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0028] Figure 14 An example of an NDP configuration of electronic devices and multiple external electronic devices according to an embodiment is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0029] Various embodiments are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0030] Figure 1 This is a block diagram illustrating an electronic device 101 in a network environment 100 according to various embodiments. (Refer to...) Figure 1In network environment 100, electronic device 101 can communicate with electronic device 102 via a first network 198 (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or with at least one of electronic device 104 or server 108 via a second network 199 (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to an embodiment, electronic device 101 can communicate with electronic device 104 via server 108. According to an embodiment, electronic device 101 may include a processor 120, memory 130, input module 150, sound output module 155, display module 160, audio module 170, sensor module 176, interface 177, connection terminal 178, haptic module 179, camera module 180, power management module 188, battery 189, communication module 190, user identification module (SIM) 196, or antenna module 197. In some embodiments, at least one of the above components (e.g., connection terminal 178) may be omitted from electronic device 101, or one or more other components may be added to electronic device 101. In some embodiments, some of the components described above (e.g., sensor module 176, camera module 180, or antenna module 197) may be implemented as a single integrated component (e.g., display module 160).

[0031] Processor 120 may run software (e.g., program 140) to control at least one other component (e.g., hardware or software component) of electronic device 101 connected to processor 120, and may perform various data processing or calculations. According to one embodiment, as at least part of the data processing or calculation, processor 120 may store commands or data received from another component (e.g., sensor module 176 or communication module 190) in volatile memory 132, process the commands or data stored in volatile memory 132, and store the resulting data in non-volatile memory 134. According to embodiments, processor 120 may include a main processor 121 (e.g., central processing unit (CPU) or application processor (AP)) or an auxiliary processor 123 (e.g., graphics processing unit (GPU), neural processing unit (NPU), image signal processor (ISP), sensor central processor, or communication processor (CP)) that is operationally independent of or combined with the main processor 121. For example, when electronic device 101 includes a main processor 121 and an auxiliary processor 123, the auxiliary processor 123 may be adapted to consume less power than the main processor 121, or to be dedicated to a specific function. The auxiliary processor 123 may be implemented separately from the main processor 121, or may be implemented as part of the main processor 121.

[0032] When the main processor 121 is inactive (e.g., in sleep) state, the auxiliary processor 123 (rather than the main processor 121) can control at least some of the functions or states associated with at least one component of the electronic device 101 (e.g., display module 160, sensor module 176, or communication module 190), or when the main processor 121 is active (e.g., running an application), the auxiliary processor 123 can work with the main processor 121 to control at least some of the functions or states associated with at least one component of the electronic device 101 (e.g., display module 160, sensor module 176, or communication module 190). According to embodiments, the auxiliary processor 123 (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as part of another component (e.g., camera module 180 or communication module 190) functionally associated with the auxiliary processor 123. According to embodiments, the auxiliary processor 123 (e.g., a neural processing unit) may include hardware architecture dedicated to artificial intelligence model processing. Artificial intelligence models can be generated through machine learning. For example, such learning can be performed via electronic device 101 where artificial intelligence is performed or via a separate server (e.g., server 108). The learning algorithm may include, but is not limited to, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning. The artificial intelligence model may include multiple layers of artificial neural networks. The artificial neural network may be a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), or a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more thereof, but is not limited thereto. Additionally or optionally, the artificial intelligence model may include software structures in addition to hardware structures.

[0033] Memory 130 may store various data used by at least one component of electronic device 101 (e.g., processor 120 or sensor module 176). The various data may include, for example, software (e.g., program 140) and input or output data for commands associated with it. Memory 130 may include volatile memory 132 or non-volatile memory 134.

[0034] The program 140 may be stored as software in the memory 130, and the program 140 may include, for example, an operating system (OS) 142, middleware 144, or application 146.

[0035] The input module 150 can receive commands or data from outside the electronic device 101 (e.g., a user) that will be used by other components of the electronic device 101 (e.g., processor 120). The input module 150 may include, for example, a microphone, mouse, keyboard, keys (e.g., buttons), or digital pen (e.g., stylus).

[0036] The sound output module 155 can output sound signals to the outside of the electronic device 101. The sound output module 155 may include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes such as playing multimedia or playing records. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. According to an embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

[0037] Display module 160 can visually provide information to the outside of electronic device 101 (e.g., to a user). Display device 160 may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector, and control circuitry for controlling a respective one of the display, holographic device, and projector. According to an embodiment, display module 160 may include a touch sensor adapted to detect touch or a pressure sensor adapted to measure the intensity of the force caused by touch.

[0038] The audio module 170 can convert sound into electrical signals and vice versa. According to an embodiment, the audio module 170 can obtain sound via the input module 150, or output sound via the sound output module 155 or headphones of an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device 102) that is directly (e.g., wired) or wirelessly connected to the electronic device 101.

[0039] Sensor module 176 can detect the operating state of electronic device 101 (e.g., power or temperature) or the environmental state outside electronic device 101 (e.g., user state), and then generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. According to embodiments, sensor module 176 may include, for example, a gesture sensor, gyroscope sensor, atmospheric pressure sensor, magnetic sensor, accelerometer, grip sensor, proximity sensor, color sensor, infrared (IR) sensor, biometric sensor, temperature sensor, humidity sensor, or illuminance sensor.

[0040] Interface 177 may support one or more specific protocols used to enable electronic device 101 to connect directly (e.g., wired) or wirelessly to external electronic devices (e.g., electronic device 102). According to embodiments, interface 177 may include, for example, a High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI), a Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface, a Secure Digital Card (SD) interface, or an audio interface.

[0041] Connection 178 may include a connector, through which electronic device 101 may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device 102). According to embodiments, connection 178 may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0042] The haptic module 179 can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or motion) or electrical stimuli that can be recognized by a user through his touch or kinesthesia. According to an embodiment, the haptic module 179 may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulator.

[0043] Camera module 180 can capture still or moving images. According to an embodiment, camera module 180 may include one or more lenses, an image sensor, an image signal processor, or a flash.

[0044] The power management module 188 manages the power supply to the electronic device 101. According to an embodiment, the power management module 188 may be implemented as at least part of, for example, a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0045] Battery 189 can power at least one component of electronic device 101. According to an embodiment, battery 189 may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable rechargeable battery, or a fuel cell.

[0046] Communication module 190 can support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) or wireless communication channel between electronic device 101 and external electronic devices (e.g., electronic device 102, electronic device 104, or server 108), and perform communication via the established communication channel. Communication module 190 may include one or more communication processors capable of operating independently of processor 120 (e.g., application processor (AP)) and support direct (e.g., wired) or wireless communication. According to embodiments, communication module 190 may include wireless communication module 192 (e.g., cellular communication module, short-range wireless communication module, or Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) communication module) or wired communication module 194 (e.g., local area network (LAN) communication module or power line communication (PLC) module). One of these communication modules can communicate with an external electronic device via a first network 198 (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Direct, or Infrared Data Association (IrDA)) or a second network 199 (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a traditional cellular network, 5G network, next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or a wide area network (WAN))). These various types of communication modules can be implemented as a single component (e.g., a single chip) or as multiple components separate from each other (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module 192 can identify and verify the electronic device 101 in the communication network (such as the first network 198 or the second network 199) using user information (e.g., the International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI)) stored in the user identification module 196.

[0047] Wireless communication module 192 can support 5G networks following 4G networks and next-generation communication technologies (such as new radio (NR) access technologies). NR access technologies can support enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), massive machine-type communication (mMTC), or ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC). Wireless communication module 192 can support high-frequency bands (e.g., millimeter-wave bands) to achieve, for example, high data transmission rates. Wireless communication module 192 can support various technologies used to ensure performance in high-frequency bands, such as, for example, beamforming, massive MIMO, full-dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antennas, analog beamforming, or massive antennas. Wireless communication module 192 can support various requirements specified in electronic device 101, external electronic devices (e.g., electronic device 104), or network systems (e.g., second network 199). According to an embodiment, the wireless communication module 192 may support peak data rates (e.g., 20 Gbps or greater) for implementing eMBB, lost coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for implementing mMTC, or U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for each of the downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or 1 ms or less round trip) for implementing URLLC.

[0048] According to various embodiments, the user identification module 196 may include multiple user identification modules. For example, the multiple user identification modules may store different user information.

[0049] Antenna module 197 can transmit or receive signals or power to or from the exterior of electronic device 101 (e.g., external electronic device). According to an embodiment, antenna module 197 may include an antenna comprising a radiating element formed of a conductive material or conductive pattern formed in or on a substrate (e.g., a printed circuit board (PCB)). According to an embodiment, antenna module 197 may include multiple antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication scheme used in a communication network (such as a first network 198 or a second network 199) can be selected from the multiple antennas by, for example, communication module 190 (e.g., wireless communication module 192). Signals or power can then be transmitted or received between communication module 190 and the external electronic device via the selected at least one antenna. According to an embodiment, additional components besides the radiating element (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally incorporated into antenna module 197.

[0050] According to various embodiments, antenna module 197 may form a millimeter-wave antenna module. According to embodiments, the millimeter-wave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC), and multiple antennas (e.g., an array antenna), wherein the RFIC is disposed on or adjacent to a first surface (e.g., a bottom surface) of the printed circuit board and is capable of supporting a specified high-frequency band (e.g., a millimeter-wave band), and the multiple antennas are disposed on or adjacent to a second surface (e.g., a top surface or a side surface) of the printed circuit board and are capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the specified high-frequency band.

[0051] For example, multiple antennas may include patch array antennas and / or dipole array antennas.

[0052] At least some of the aforementioned components can be interconnected and communicate signals (e.g., commands or data) between them via an inter-peripheral communication scheme (e.g., bus, general purpose input / output (GPIO), serial peripheral interface (SPI), or mobile industrial processor interface (MIPI)).

[0053] According to an embodiment, commands or data can be sent or received between electronic device 101 and external electronic device 104 via server 108 connected to a second network 199. Each of electronic device 102 or electronic device 104 can be a device of the same type as electronic device 101, or a device of a different type. According to an embodiment, all or some operations that would be performed on electronic device 101 can be performed on one or more of external electronic devices 102, external electronic devices 104, or server 108. For example, if electronic device 101 is required to automatically perform a function or service, or is required to perform a function or service in response to a request from a user or another device, electronic device 101 may request the one or more external electronic devices to perform at least a portion of the function or service, instead of running the function or service, or electronic device 101 may request the one or more external electronic devices to perform at least a portion of the function or service in addition to running the function or service. Upon receiving the request, one or more external electronic devices may perform at least a portion of the requested function or service, or perform additional functions or services related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to electronic device 101. Electronic device 101 may provide the result as at least a partial response to the request, with or without further processing of the result. For this purpose, technologies such as cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing may be used. Electronic device 101 may use, for example, distributed computing or mobile edge computing to provide ultra-low latency services. In another embodiment, external electronic device 104 may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. Server 108 may be an intelligent server using machine learning and / or neural networks. According to embodiments, external electronic device 104 or server 108 may be included in a second network 199. Electronic device 101 may be applied to intelligent services based on 5G communication technology or IoT-related technologies (e.g., smart homes, smart cities, smart cars, or healthcare).

[0054] The electronic device according to various embodiments can be one of a variety of types of electronic devices. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. According to embodiments of this disclosure, the electronic device is not limited to those described above.

[0055] It should be understood that the various embodiments of this disclosure and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features set forth herein to the specific embodiments, but rather to include various changes, equivalents, or substitutions to the respective embodiments. In the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used to refer to similar or related elements. It will be understood that nouns in the singular form corresponding to terms may include one or more things unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise. As used herein, each of the phrases such as “A or B,” “at least one of A and B,” “at least one of A or B,” “A, B, or C,” “at least one of A, B, and C,” and “at least one of A, B, or C” may include any one or all possible combinations of the items enumerated together with the corresponding phrase among the plurality of phrases. As used herein, terms such as “first” and “second” or “first” and “second” may be used to simply distinguish the respective component from another component and do not limit the component in other respects (e.g., importance or order). It will be understood that, whether the terms “operably” or “communically” are used or not, if an element (e.g., a first element) is referred to as “combined with another element (e.g., a second element),” “combined to another element (e.g., a second element),” “connected to another element (e.g., a second element),” or “connected to another element (e.g., a second element)”, it means that the element can be directly (e.g., wiredly) connected to the other element, wirelessly connected to the other element, or connected to the other element via a third element.

[0056] As used in connection with various embodiments of this disclosure, the term "module" may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with other terms such as "logic," "logic block," "part," or "circuit." A module may be a single integrated component adapted to perform one or more functions, or the smallest unit or part of such a single integrated component. For example, according to embodiments, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0057] The various embodiments set forth herein can be implemented as software (e.g., program 140) containing one or more instructions readable by a machine (e.g., electronic device 101) stored in a storage medium (e.g., internal memory 136 or external memory 138). For example, under the control of a processor, the processor (e.g., processor 120) of the machine (e.g., electronic device 101) can invoke and execute at least one of the one or more instructions stored in the storage medium, with or without the use of one or more other components. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the invoked at least one instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. Machine-readable storage media may be provided in the form of non-transitory storage media. The term "non-transitory" simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not include signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), but this term does not distinguish between data being stored semi-permanently in the storage medium and data being temporarily stored in the storage medium.

[0058] According to embodiments, methods according to various embodiments of this disclosure may be included and provided in a computer program product. The computer program product can be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., a compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM)) or via an app store (e.g., the Play Store). TM The computer program product may be published online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded), or may be distributed directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones) (e.g., downloaded or uploaded). If published online, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily generated, or at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored in a machine-readable storage medium (such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an app store's server, or a forwarding server).

[0059] According to various embodiments, each of the above-described components (e.g., a module or program) may include a single entity or multiple entities, and some of the multiple entities may be separately disposed in different components. According to various embodiments, one or more of the above-described components may be omitted, or one or more other components may be added. Optionally or additionally, multiple components (e.g., modules or programs) may be integrated into a single component. In this case, according to various embodiments, the integrated component may still perform the one or more functions of each of the multiple components in the same or similar manner as the corresponding component of the multiple components performed one or more functions before integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be performed sequentially, in parallel, repeatedly, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be run in a different order or omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

[0060] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating a Neighbor-Aware Network (NAN) cluster according to various embodiments.

[0061] According to various embodiments, Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating an example configuration of a NAN cluster 200 for a proximity network. According to one embodiment, a NAN cluster 200 may refer to a collection of electronic devices 101, 210, 220 and / or 230 that establish a proximity network, such that the respective electronic devices (or NAN devices) 101, 210, 220 and / or 230 can send and / or receive data from each other.

[0062] According to various embodiments, the NAN cluster 200 may include a plurality of electronic devices 101, 210, 220 and / or 230. The electronic devices 101, 210, 220 and / or 230 included in the NAN cluster 200 may send and / or receive beacons (or discovery beacons), service discovery frames (SDFs) and / or NAN action frames (NAFs) during a synchronization duration (or communication period) (e.g., discovery window (DW)).

[0063] According to various embodiments, the electronic devices 101, 210, 220 and / or 230 within the NAN cluster 200 can synchronize their clocks with each other. For example, electronic devices 101, 210, 220 and / or 230 can synchronize with the clock of one electronic device (e.g., electronic device 101) and send and / or receive beacons, SDFs and / or NAFs within the synchronized (or same) discovery window.

[0064] According to one embodiment, an electronic device 101 supporting NAN-based low-power short-range communication technology can broadcast search signals (e.g., beacons) every predetermined first time period (e.g., about 100 milliseconds) to discover external electronic devices 210, 220 and / or 230, and perform scans every predetermined second time period (e.g., about 10 milliseconds) to receive search signals broadcast from external electronic devices 210, 220 and / or 230.

[0065] According to one embodiment, electronic device 101 can detect at least one external electronic device 210, 220, and / or 230 located around electronic device 101 based on a search signal received by scanning, and perform NAN cluster synchronization with the detected external electronic device 210, 220, and / or 230. NAN cluster synchronization may include receiving clock information of an electronic device (e.g., electronic device 101) representing the NAN cluster, such that electronic devices 101, 210, 220, and / or 230 included in the NAN cluster transmit and / or receive data on the same channel and / or during the same time period.

[0066] According to one embodiment, each of a plurality of electronic devices 101, 210, 220 and / or 230 may form a single NAN cluster 200, which operates according to a synchronized clock by sending and receiving beacons from and / or receiving beacons from the other electronic devices 101, 210, 220 and / or 230. The electronic devices 101, 210, 220 and / or 230 included in the NAN cluster 200 may perform NAN cluster synchronization (e.g., time and / or channel synchronization).

[0067] According to various embodiments, NAN cluster synchronization can be performed based on the time and channel of the electronic device (e.g., electronic device 101) with the highest master preference within the NAN cluster 200. For example, by discovering that the electronic devices 101, 210, 220, and / or 230 included in the formed NAN cluster 200 can exchange signals related to master preference information, which indicates the preference for operation as an anchor master device. The electronic devices 101, 210, 220, and / or 230 included in the NAN cluster 200 can determine the electronic device (e.g., electronic device 101) with the highest master preference as the anchor master device (or master electronic device) through signals related to the master preference information.

[0068] According to various embodiments, the anchor master device (e.g., electronic device 101) can refer to an electronic device that serves as a reference for time and channel synchronization of electronic devices 101, 210, 220, and / or 230 included in the NAN cluster 200. The anchor master device can be changed according to the master device preferences of electronic devices 101, 210, 220, and / or 230. Each of the time and channel synchronization electronic devices 101, 210, 220, and / or 230 can transmit beacons and / or SDFs within a discovery window (or search period) that repeats according to a predetermined period, and receive beacons and SDFs from other electronic devices 101, 210, 220, and / or 230 within the NAN cluster 200. In one embodiment, beacons can be transmitted and / or received periodically within each discovery window to continuously protect the time and channel synchronization of electronic devices 101, 210, 220, and / or 230 within the NAN cluster 200. SDFs can be sent and / or received as needed within the discovery window to provide services to the discovered electronic devices 101, 210, 220, and / or 230. According to one embodiment, among the time- and channel-synchronized electronic devices 101, 210, 220, and / or 230, an electronic device operating as an anchor master device (e.g., electronic device 101) can send beacons (e.g., discovery beacons) during the intervals between discovery windows to detect new electronic devices.

[0069] According to one embodiment, each of the NAN cluster-synchronized (e.g., time- and / or channel-synchronized) electronic devices 101, 210, 220, and / or 230 can transmit a NAN Action Frame (NAF) during a discovery window (or search interval) that repeats according to a predetermined period and receive NAFs from other electronic devices 101, 210, 220, and / or 230 within the NAN cluster 200. For example, the NAF may include at least one of the following: information related to the configuration of the NAN data path (NDP), information related to scheduling updates, or information related to NAN ranging, to perform data communication during the intervals between discovery windows. For example, the NAF may control the scheduling of radio resources for the coexistence of NAN operations and non-NAN operations (e.g., Wi-Fi Direct, Mesh, IBSS, WLAN, Bluetooth, or NFC). The NAF may include time and / or channel information available for NAN communication.

[0070] According to various embodiments, each of the electronic devices 101, 210, 220 and / or 230 included in the NAN cluster 200 may operate in an active state only during the discovery window and in a low-power state (e.g., sleep state) during the remaining intervals outside the discovery window, thereby reducing current consumption.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the discovery window is a period (e.g., in milliseconds) during which electronic devices 101, 210, 220, or 230 enter an active (or awake) state and consume a large amount of power. However, during intervals other than the discovery window, electronic devices 101, 210, 220, or 230 remain in a sleep state, enabling low-power discovery.

[0072] According to various embodiments, the electronic devices 101, 210, 220 and / or 230 included in the NAN cluster 200 can be activated simultaneously at the start time of a synchronized discovery window (e.g., DWStart) and simultaneously transition to a sleep state at the end time of the discovery window (e.g., DWEnd).

[0073] According to various embodiments, each of the electronic devices 101, 210, 220, and / or 230 included in the NAN cluster 200 can send and / or receive data not only within a discovery window but also during the intervals between discovery windows. According to one embodiment, the electronic devices 101, 210, 220, and / or 230 included in the NAN cluster 200 can perform additional communication by configuring active time slots during the intervals between discovery windows. For example, the electronic devices 101, 210, 220, and / or 230 included in the NAN cluster 200 can send and / or receive SDFs that are not sent and / or received within a discovery window via active time slots. For example, the electronic devices 101, 210, 220, and / or 230 included in the NAN cluster 200 can perform NAN communication and / or non-NAN communication during active time slots by configuring (or specifying) NAN communication operation periods and / or non-NAN communication operation periods during active time slots.

[0074] According to various embodiments, the electronic devices 101, 210, 220 and / or 230 included in the NAN cluster 200 may use the methods described below. Figure 3 The protocol shown is used to perform discovery, synchronization, and / or data exchange operations.

[0075] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating protocols for transmitting signals from electronic devices included in a NAN cluster, according to various embodiments. According to the various embodiments, Figure 3 This is a diagram showing an example of a discovery window. Figure 3 In the diagram, a NAN cluster can be shown (e.g., Figure 2 Electronic devices included in the NAN cluster 200 (e.g., Figure 2 Electronic devices 101, 210, 220 and / or 230 transmit signals through a specific channel (e.g., channel 6 (Ch6)) based on the NAN standard.

[0076] According to various embodiments, a NAN cluster (e.g., Figure 2 Electronic devices 101, 210, 220, and / or 230 included in a NAN cluster 200 can transmit synchronization beacons 310 and SDF 320 within a synchronized discovery window 325. Discovery beacon 330 can be transmitted by at least one electronic device 101, 210, 220, and / or 230 in an interval 340 other than discovery window 325 (e.g., an interval between discovery windows). According to one embodiment, electronic devices 101, 210, 220, and / or 230 can transmit synchronization beacons 310 and SDF 320 on a contention-based basis. For example, they can be transmitted within a NAN cluster (e.g., ...). Figure 2 The corresponding electronic devices 101, 210, 220 and / or 230 of the NAN cluster 200 transmit synchronization beacons 310 and SDF 320 based on contention.

[0077] According to various embodiments, a NAN cluster (e.g., Figure 2 Electronic devices 101, 210, 220, and / or 230 included in the NAN cluster (200) can send and / or receive NAFs during discovery window 325. For example, the NAF may include at least one of the following: information related to the configuration of the NAN data path (NDP), information related to scheduling updates, or information related to NAN ranging, to perform data communication during the interval between discovery windows.

[0078] According to various embodiments, the discovery window 325 can be a period of time during which electronic devices 101, 210, 220, and / or 230 are activated from a communication idle state (e.g., sleep state) as a power-saving mode to a communication state (e.g., wake-up state) for data exchange between electronic devices 101, 210, 220, and / or 230. For example, the discovery window 325 can be divided into time units (TUs) in milliseconds. According to one embodiment, the discovery window 325 for transmitting and receiving synchronization beacons 310 and SDF 320 can occupy 16 time units (16 TUs) and can have a period (or interval) that repeats in 512 time units (512 TUs).

[0079] According to various embodiments, beacon 330 can indicate that it has not yet joined the NAN cluster (e.g., Figure 2 Other electronic devices in the NAN cluster (200) can detect the signals of the NAN cluster. For example, the discovery beacon 330 is a signal used to notify the existence of the NAN cluster, and electronic devices that have not yet joined the NAN cluster can perform a passive scan to receive the discovery beacon 330, thereby discovering and joining the NAN cluster.

[0080] According to various embodiments, beacon 330 may include an interface with a NAN cluster (e.g., Figure 2 Information necessary for synchronization of the NAN cluster 200. For example, the discovery beacon 330 may include at least one of the following: a frame control (FC) field indicating the function of a signal (e.g., a beacon), a broadcast address, a media access control (MAC) address of the transmitting electronic device, a cluster identifier (ID), a sequence control field, a timestamp of the beacon frame, a beacon interval indicating the transmission interval of the discovery beacon 330, or information about the capability of the electronic device sending the discovery beacon 330.

[0081] According to various embodiments, the discovery beacon 330 may include at least one neighboring network (or NAN cluster) related information element. In one embodiment, the neighboring network related information may be referred to as attribute information.

[0082] According to various embodiments, synchronization beacon 310 can indicate methods for maintaining the NAN cluster (e.g., Figure 2 The synchronization beacon 310 is a signal used for synchronization between synchronization electronics 101, 210, 220, and / or 230 within the NAN cluster (200). The synchronization beacon 310 can be transmitted by a synchronization device among the electronics 101, 210, 220, and / or 230 within the NAN cluster. For example, the synchronization device may include an anchor master device, a master device, or a non-master synchronization device as defined in the NAN standard.

[0083] According to various embodiments, the synchronization beacon 310 may include electronic devices 101, 210, 220 and / or 230 in a NAN cluster (e.g., Figure 2 The synchronization beacon 310 may include information required for synchronization within the NAN cluster 200. For example, the synchronization beacon 310 may include at least one of the following: an FC field indicating the function of a signal (e.g., a beacon), a broadcast address, a MAC address of a transmitting electronic device, a cluster ID, a sequence control field, a timestamp of the beacon frame, a beacon interval indicating the interval between the start points of the discovery window 325, or capability information of the transmitting electronic device. According to one embodiment, the synchronization beacon 310 may include at least one neighboring network (or NAN cluster) related information element. For example, neighboring network related information may include content for services provided through the neighboring network.

[0084] According to various embodiments, SDF 320 can represent a signal used for exchanging data over a neighboring network. According to one embodiment, SDF 320 represents a vendor-specific common action frame and can include various fields. For example, SDF 320 may include a category or action field and include at least one piece of neighboring network-related information.

[0085] According to various embodiments, synchronization beacon 310, SDF 320, and discovery beacon 330 may include neighboring network-related information. In one embodiment, the neighboring network-related information may include an ID indicating the type of information, the length of the information, and a body field as the corresponding information. According to one embodiment, the corresponding information may include at least one of the following: master device indication information, cluster information, service ID list information, service descriptor information, connectivity information, wireless LAN infrastructure information, peer-to-peer (P2P) operation information, independent basic service set (IBSS) information, mesh information, further neighboring network service discovery information, further availability map information, country code information, ranging information, cluster discovery information, or vendor-specific information.

[0086] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating examples of data transmission and / or reception within a NAN cluster according to various embodiments.

[0087] According to various embodiments, Figure 4 It is shown that electronic device 101, external electronic device 1210 and external electronic device 2220 form a single NAN cluster (e.g., using wireless short-range communication technology). Figure 2 Examples of NAN clusters 200, and each of the electronic devices 101, 210 and / or 220 can send and / or receive beacons, SDFs and / or NAFs to each other. According to one embodiment, Figure 4 An example is shown of electronic device 101 performing the role of a master device electronic device in electronic devices 101, 210 and / or 220 that form a NAN cluster.

[0088] According to various embodiments, electronic device 101 may transmit beacons, SDF, and / or NAF within discovery window 450. Electronic device 101 may broadcast beacons, SDF, and / or NAF in each discovery window 450 repeated at predetermined intervals (e.g., interval 460).

[0089] According to various embodiments, external electronic devices 1 210 and 2 220 may receive beacons, SDFs, and / or NAFs transmitted by electronic device 101. According to one embodiment, each of external electronic devices 1 210 and 2 220 may receive broadcast beacons, SDFs, and / or NAFs from electronic device 101 at each discovery window 450.

[0090] According to various embodiments, the beacons sent within the discovery window 450 may include synchronization beacons and information for maintaining synchronization between electronic devices 101, 210, and / or 220. For example, external electronic device 1 210 and / or external electronic device 2 220 may perform NAN cluster synchronization based on the clock information of electronic device 101 included in the beacons sent by electronic device 101 operating as the master device. External electronic device 1 210 and / or external electronic device 2 220 may synchronize based on the clock information of electronic device 101, such that discovery window 450 can be activated simultaneously.

[0091] According to various embodiments, during intervals other than discovery window 450 (e.g., interval 460), electronic devices 101, 210, and / or 220 may remain in a communication idle state (e.g., sleep state) to reduce current consumption. According to one embodiment, electronic devices 101, 210, and / or 220 may operate only in a communication state (e.g., wake-up state) within discovery window 450 based on a synchronized clock to further reduce current consumption.

[0092] According to various embodiments, electronic devices 101, 210, and / or 220 can perform additional communications by configuring active time slots during intervals other than discovery window 450 (e.g., interval 460). According to one embodiment, electronic devices 101, 210, and / or 220 can transmit and / or receive SDFs not transmitted and / or received within discovery window 450 via active time slots. According to one embodiment, electronic devices 101, 210, and / or 220 can perform connectivity using traditional Wi-Fi or discovery operations via active time slots by specifying operations for Wi-Fi Direct, Mesh, IBSS, WLAN, Bluetooth, or NFC connectivity within the active time slots.

[0093] Figure 5 This is a block diagram of an electronic device for data communication according to an embodiment. According to the embodiment, Figure 5 The electronic device 101 may be at least partially similar to Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 or Figure 4 The electronic device 101, or another embodiment including an electronic device.

[0094] According to the reference Figure 5 In some embodiments, electronic device 101 may include processor 500 (e.g., including a processing circuitry), communication circuitry (or a communication circuitry system) 510, and / or memory 520. For example, processor 500 may be connected to... Figure 1The processor 120 is substantially the same as (e.g., an application processor and / or a communication processor), or may be included within the processor 120. The communication circuitry 510 may be compatible with... Figure 1 The wireless communication module 192 is substantially the same as, or is included in, the wireless communication module 192. The memory 520 may be... Figure 1 The memory 500 is substantially the same as, or may be included in, the memory 130. According to embodiments, the processor 500 may be operatively, functionally, and / or electrically connected to the communication circuitry 510 and / or the memory 520. For example, the processor 500 may include at least one processor.

[0095] According to embodiments, the communication circuit 510 may include various circuit structures for modulating and / or demodulating signals within the electronic device 101. For example, the communication circuit 510 may modulate a signal in the baseband into a signal in the radio frequency (RF) band to output the signal via an antenna (not shown), or demodulate (or decode) a signal in the RF band received via the antenna into a signal in the baseband and send the signal to the processor 500. For example, the communication circuit 510 may be able to communicate via a NAN cluster (e.g., Figure 2 Electronic devices of the cluster 200 (e.g., Figure 2 The frequency bands used by the electronic devices 101, 210, 220 and / or 230 (e.g., about 2.4 GHz band, about 5 GHz band and / or about 6 GHz band) transmit signals to external electronic devices (e.g., Figure 2 External electronic devices 210, 220 and / or 230) transmit and / or receive various data from external electronic devices.

[0096] According to an embodiment, the processor 500 can control the communication circuit 510 to communicate with at least one external electronic device (e.g., Figure 2 The neighbor sensing network (NAN) cluster of external electronic devices 210, 220 and / or 230 is synchronized to configure the NAN cluster (e.g., Figure 2 NAN cluster 200). For example, processor 500 can be based on a cluster (or network) implemented in a NAN scheme (e.g., Figure 2 External electronic devices (e.g., in the NAN cluster 200) included in the cluster) Figure 2 The external electronic devices 210, 220 and / or 230 broadcast signals containing NAN cluster information to perform NAN cluster synchronization.

[0097] According to an embodiment, processor 500 can receive NAN cluster information via communication schemes other than NAN-based schemes (e.g., Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Near Field Communication (NFC), Quick Response (QR), or short-range wireless communication including WLAN (e.g., Wi-Fi)). For example, processor 500 can control communication circuit 510 to send signals via a WLAN (e.g., Wi-Fi) network for discovering external electronic devices (e.g., [missing information]). Figure 2 The processor 500 can detect request signals from external electronic devices 210, 220, and / or 230. Figure 2 The external electronic devices 210, 220 and / or 230 receive NAN cluster information included in the probe response message in response to the probe request signal to perform NAN cluster synchronization.

[0098] According to an embodiment, NAN cluster synchronization may include a series of operations: receiving clock information from an electronic device 101 representing the NAN cluster (e.g., a master device or anchor master device) to allow the NAN cluster (e.g., Figure 2 Electronic devices included in the NAN cluster 200 (e.g., Figure 2 Electronic devices 101, 220, and / or 230 transmit and / or receive signals and / or data through the same channel and / or the same time resources. For example, processor 500 can control communication circuit 510 to transmit (or broadcast) a beacon including clock information of electronic device 101 through a discovery window to execute external electronic devices (e.g., Figure 2 NAN cluster synchronization (using external electronic devices 210, 220, and / or 230). For example, processor 500 can synchronize with external electronic devices (e.g., Figure 2 The beacon received by external electronic devices 210, 220 and / or 230 includes external electronic devices (e.g., external electronic devices). Figure 2 The clock information of external electronic devices 210, 220 and / or 230 is used to perform NAN cluster synchronization.

[0099] According to an embodiment, the processor 500 can control the communication circuit 510 to perform searches related to external electronic devices for data transmission. For example, the search for external electronic devices can be performed based on the generation of data transmission events. For example, data transmission events can be generated based on at least one of the operation of functions or applications related to data transmission, the input of control signals related to data transmission, or the receipt of user input related to data transmission.

[0100] For example, processor 500 can control communication circuit 510 to perform a search for external electronic devices for data transmission via Bluetooth (or BLE) message exchange. For example, Bluetooth (or BLE) message exchange may include a series of operations for sending a BLE broadcast message including information related to a data transmission event and receiving a BLE response message in response to the BLE broadcast message. For example, the BLE broadcast message may include information related to the data transmission event and information related to NAN. For example, processor 500 can control communication circuit 620 to activate NAN communication based on the transmission of the BLE broadcast message. For example, external electronic devices (e.g., Figure 2 External electronic devices 210, 220 and / or 230 can activate NAN communication based on the reception of BLE broadcast messages.

[0101] For example, electronic device 101 and external electronic device that activate NAN communication via Bluetooth (or BLE) message exchange. Figure 2 210, 220 and / or 230 in the NAN cluster can perform NAN cluster synchronization.

[0102] For example, processor 500 can control communication circuit 510 to search for external electronic devices for data transmission within a discovery window synchronized with external electronic devices via SDF exchange.

[0103] According to an embodiment, processor 500 can configure a NAN data path with an external electronic device for data transmission. For example, processor 500 can control communication circuitry 510 to send at least one of a NAN availability attribute or non-NAN operation scheduling information (unaligned scheduling attribute) to the external electronic device. The NAN availability attribute or non-NAN operation scheduling information includes information related to a first schedule for data communication with the external electronic device. For example, at least one of the NAN availability information or non-NAN operation scheduling information may be included in a beacon, SDF, and / or NAF and sent to the external electronic device via a discovery window. For example, NAN availability information may include information related to one of the following for each further available window (FAW): channel information, frequency band information, start time point (start offset), duration (bit duration), or repetition period. For example, channel information may specify an operation class and can be used to configure a primary channel. For example, frequency band information may include information related to the frequency band (e.g., a band of approximately 2.4 GHz, a band of approximately 5 GHz, and / or a band of approximately 6 GHz) to be used for data communication with the external electronic device. For example, the start time point can be used to indicate how far the additional available window (FAW) begins from the discovery window (DW). For example, the duration can be used to indicate the duration of the additional available window (FAW). For example, the recurrence period can be used to indicate the period during which the additional available window (FAW) begins again. For example, the additional available window may include a NAN time slot, in which electronic device 101 sends data to and / or receives data from an external electronic device between discovery windows. For example, information related to the first scheduling may include at least one piece of lower scheduling information corresponding to each of at least one additional available window for data communication between electronic device 101 and the external electronic device. For example, the lower scheduling information may include index information of a scheduling mode corresponding to an additional available window among predefined different scheduling modes.

[0104] According to an embodiment, the processor 500 can receive a response signal from an external electronic device in response to the first scheduling information. For example, when the response signal includes information related to "accept," the processor 500 can determine, based on the first scheduling information sent to the external electronic device, that data communication with the external electronic device is permissible. For example, when the response signal includes information related to "counter," the processor 500 can identify the first scheduling information modified by the external electronic device. When it is determined that the modified first scheduling information is accepted, the processor 500 can determine, based on the modified first scheduling information, that data communication with the external electronic device is permissible. For example, when the response signal includes information related to "reject," the processor 500 can determine that data communication with the external electronic device is not permissible.

[0105] According to an embodiment, the processor 500 may control the communication circuit 510 to perform data communication via an NDP configured with an external electronic device, based on first scheduling information. For example, the processor 500 may control the communication circuit 510 to send data to and / or receive data from the external electronic device via at least one time interval (e.g., additional available windows) configured based on the first scheduling information between discovery windows.

[0106] According to an embodiment, the processor 500 may store NDP-related information for external electronic devices based on the generation of events related to switching to a low-power mode. For example, NDP-related information may include at least one of the following: information shared with external electronic devices via SDP exchange; information related to a first schedule; authentication information related to the external electronic device; security configuration information; identification information of the electronic device and / or the external electronic device; or identification information in the firmware used for NDP identification. For example, information shared via SDF exchange may include at least one of the following: scheduling information related to Service Descriptor Attribute (SDA), Service Descriptor Extended Attribute (SDEA), or NAN availability. For example, information related to the first schedule may include at least one of NAN availability, NAN Data Cluster (NDC), NAN Data Link (NDL), Sub-Slot Scheduling (S3), or unaligned scheduling. For example, security configuration information may include at least one of the following: Cipher Suite Information Attribute (CSIA), Security Context Information Attribute (SCIA), Shared Key Descriptor Attribute (SKDA), Element Container Attribute (ECA), or a key included in the SKDA. For example, identification information for electronic devices and / or external electronic devices may include at least one of command ID, NDP ID, service ID, account ID, device (or peer) ID, device information, or device address. For example, identification information used for NDP identification may include at least one of NDP ID, SDF information, or SDF ID. For example, an event related to switching to low-power mode may be generated based on at least one of the termination of a function or application related to data transmission or the traffic volume of the external electronic device (e.g., the amount of data sent and / or received). For example, NDP-related information may be stored at the point in time when NDP configuration of the external electronic device is determined to be complete.

[0107] According to an embodiment, processor 500 can maintain synchronization (e.g., time synchronization) with an external electronic device based on the generation of events related to switching to a low-power mode, using second scheduling information to maintain NDP with the external electronic device. For example, processor 500 can control communication circuitry 510 to send control information and scheduling change information related to switching to a low-power mode to the external electronic device based on the generation of events related to switching to a low-power mode. For example, the control information related to switching to a low-power mode may include information related to a second scheduling for maintaining synchronization with the external electronic device. For example, the scheduling change information may include information related to removing each of at least one lower-level scheduling that is associated with data communication using the NDP included in the first scheduling information. For example, the control information and / or scheduling change information related to switching to a low-power mode may be sent based on Service Descriptor Attribute (SDA), Service Descriptor Extended Attribute (SDEA), Vendor-Specific Information Element (VISE), Vendor-Specific Attribute (VSA), or out-of-band (OOB) communication. For example, OOB communication may include other communication schemes for NAN communication different from WLAN, such as Bluetooth, BLE, or NFC.

[0108] For example, when configured as a master device for synchronization with an external electronic device, processor 500 can control communication circuit 510 to transmit synchronization beacons through a predetermined transmission interval configured based on second scheduling information. For example, electronic device 101 and the external electronic device can operate in a communication state (e.g., a wake-up state) during the predetermined transmission interval and in a communication idle state for the remaining intervals other than the predetermined transmission interval. For example, the external electronic device can maintain synchronization with electronic device 101 based on synchronization beacons received from electronic device 101 during the predetermined transmission interval. For example, the predetermined transmission interval can indicate the time interval for synchronization between electronic device 101 and the external electronic device, configured based on the second scheduling information, for maintaining operation in low-power mode. For example, the size of the predetermined transmission interval can correspond to a discovery window for NAN communication, and the duration of the predetermined transmission interval can be configured as an integer multiple of the duration of the discovery window. For example, when electronic device 101 operates in low-power mode, processor 500 can control communication circuit 510 to restrict the transmission of discovery beacons through the discovery window even when configured as a master device for synchronization with an external electronic device.

[0109] For example, when not configured as a master device for synchronization with an external electronic device, the processor 500 can maintain synchronization with the external electronic device based on a synchronization beacon received from the external electronic device during a predetermined transmission interval configured based on second scheduling information.

[0110] For example, when accessing an AP that is the same as the access point (AP) of an external electronic device, the processor 500 can maintain synchronization with the external electronic device during a predetermined transmission interval configured based on second scheduling information, based on AP time information received from the AP (e.g., Time Synchronization Function (TSF)). For example, AP time information (e.g., TSF) can be obtained from the AP through a predetermined separate reception interval configured independently of the predetermined transmission interval.

[0111] According to an embodiment, based on the generation of events related to the release of the low-power mode, the processor 500 can control the communication circuit 510 to perform data communication with external electronic devices based on information related to the NDP. For example, based on NDP-related information, the electronic device 101 and the external electronic device can omit the processes of exchanging SDFs related to NDP configuration, configuring data paths, authentication processes, and / or configuring security processes, and perform data communication. For example, the event related to the release of the low-power mode can be generated based on at least one of the execution of functions or applications related to data transmission, the input of control signals related to data transmission, or the reception of user input related to data transmission.

[0112] For example, processor 500 can identify whether it can support the first scheduling information based on the generation of events related to the release of the low-power mode. When it is determined that the first scheduling information can be supported, processor 500 can control communication circuit 510 to send control information related to the release of the low-power mode to an external electronic device. For example, processor 500 can control communication circuit 510 to send information related to the addition of at least one subordinate scheduling included in the first scheduling information to an external electronic device.

[0113] For example, when it is determined that the first scheduling information cannot be supported, the processor 500 can control the communication circuit 500 to send information related to a third scheduling for data communication with the external electronic device and control information related to the release of a low-power mode to the external electronic device. For example, the information related to the third scheduling may include information related to the addition of a lower-level scheduling supported by the electronic device 101 and information related to the removal of a lower-level scheduling not supported by the electronic device 101 from at least one of the lower-level schedulings included in the first scheduling information. For example, the information related to the third scheduling may include information related to the addition of a new lower-level scheduling not included in the first scheduling information.

[0114] For example, the processor 500 can control the communication circuit 510 to perform data communication through an NDP configured with an external electronic device based on the first scheduling information or the third scheduling information.

[0115] For example, when receiving information related to the fourth scheduling from an external electronic device, the processor 500 can identify whether the fourth scheduling is supported. When it is determined that the fourth scheduling is supported, the processor 500 can control the communication circuit 510 to perform data communication through the NDP configured with the external electronic device based on the fourth scheduling information.

[0116] According to an embodiment, the processor 500 can control the communication circuit 510 to additionally configure an NDP connection with another external electronic device when the NDP connection with the external electronic device is switched to a low-power mode. For example, when another external electronic device for data communication is discovered while the NDP connection with the external electronic device is switched to a low-power mode, the processor 500 can control the communication circuit 510 to perform an NDP configuration with that other external electronic device. For example, the processor 500 can control the communication circuit 510 to perform data communication with the other external electronic device via the NDP connection. The processor 500 can switch the NDP connection with another external electronic device to a low-power mode based on the generation of an event related to switching to a low-power mode corresponding to the other external electronic device. For example, the processor 500 can independently manage the NDP connection with the external electronic device switched to a low-power mode and the NDP connection with the other external electronic device. For example, the state where the NDP connection with the external electronic device is switched to a low-power mode may include the electronic device 101 storing information related to the NDP with the external electronic device based on second scheduling information and maintaining synchronization with the external electronic device. For example, a search for other external electronic devices can be performed based on at least one of OOB communication, a Layer 3 search associated with Universal Plug and Play (uPnP), or a WLAN search (e.g., Wi-Fi Direct or NAN communication).

[0117] According to an embodiment, when multiple external electronic devices included in the same group as electronic device 101 are detected, processor 500 can control communication circuit 510 to configure NDP with each of the external electronic devices. Processor 500 can control communication circuit 510 to operate NDP configuration with at least one of the multiple external electronic devices that does not perform data communication in low-power mode. For example, when at least one external electronic device operating in low-power mode is used for data communication, processor 500 can perform data communication by releasing the low-power mode of the external electronic device used for data communication. For example, multiple external electronic devices included in the same group as electronic device 101 may include external electronic devices that include the same user account as the user account of electronic device 101. For example, the same group as electronic device 101 may include at least one of electronic device 101's home group, business group, club group, or friends group. For example, multiple external electronic devices included in the same group as electronic device 101 can be discovered based on at least one of OOB communication, a Layer 3 search associated with Universal Plug and Play (uPnP), or a WLAN search (e.g., Wi-Fi Direct or NAN communication).

[0118] According to an embodiment, memory 520 may store various data used by at least one component of electronic device 101 (e.g., processor 500 and / or communication circuitry 510). For example, memory 520 may store various instructions that can be executed by processor 500. For example, instructions may be executed individually or jointly by processor 500 (e.g., at least one processor).

[0119] According to an embodiment, electronic devices (e.g., Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 or Figure 6 The electronic device 101 may include a communication circuit (e.g., Figure 1 Wireless communication module 192 or Figure 5 The communication circuit 510) and a processor operably connected to the communication circuit (e.g., Figure 1 Processor 120 or Figure 5 The processor 500). According to an embodiment, the processor can be configured to be based on a NAN cluster (e.g., Figure 2 External electronic devices (e.g., in the NAN cluster 200) included in the cluster) Figure 2 External electronic devices 210, 220 or 230, or Figure 6The processor configures the NAN data path (NDP) for data communication using first scheduling information from an external electronic device (600). According to an embodiment, the processor may be configured to store NDP-related information based on switching to a low-power mode associated with the NDP connection. According to an embodiment, the processor may be configured to maintain synchronization with the external electronic device based on second scheduling information different from the first scheduling information. According to an embodiment, when performing data communication with the external electronic device, the processor may be configured to perform data communication with the external electronic device via the NDP of the external electronic device based on the NDP-related information.

[0120] According to an embodiment, the processor can be configured to configure the NDP of the external electronic device by exchanging Service Discovery Frames (SDF) associated with the external electronic device and the first scheduling information and data link configuration.

[0121] According to an embodiment, the processor may be configured to determine whether to switch the NDP connection with the external electronic device to a low-power mode based on the amount of data sent to and / or received from the external electronic device within a predetermined time.

[0122] According to an embodiment, the processor can be configured to determine whether to switch the NDP connection with an external electronic device to a low-power mode based on driving information of functions or applications related to data communication.

[0123] According to an embodiment, when the electronic device is configured as a master device, the processor can be configured to transmit a synchronization beacon during a predetermined transmission interval configured based on second scheduling information.

[0124] According to an embodiment, when the electronic device is not configured as a master device, the processor can be configured to maintain synchronization with the external electronic device based on a synchronization beacon received from the external electronic device during a predetermined transmission interval configured based on second scheduling information.

[0125] According to an embodiment, when the electronic device and the external electronic device are connected to the same (equal) access point (AP), the processor can be configured to keep synchronized with the external electronic device based on the time information of the AP.

[0126] According to an embodiment, when performing data communication with an external electronic device, the processor can be configured to: perform data communication with the external electronic device via an NDP based on the first scheduling information, according to determining that it can support at least one lower-level scheduling included in the first scheduling information.

[0127] According to an embodiment, if it is determined that at least some of the lower-level schedules included in the first scheduling information cannot be supported, the processor can be configured to generate third scheduling information based on the first scheduling information, and perform data communication with the external electronic device via NDP with the external electronic device based on the third scheduling information.

[0128] Figure 6 This is an example of configuring an NDP with an electronic device and an external electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0129] According to the reference Figure 6 In embodiments, during operation 611, electronic device 101 and external electronic device 600 (e.g., Figure 2 External electronic devices 210, 220, or 230 can perform NAN cluster synchronization. For example, electronic device 101 and external electronic device 600 can perform synchronization with a NAN cluster based on NAN cluster information, which is included in the cluster (or network) implemented in the NAN scheme (e.g., Figure 2 The electronic devices included in the cluster 200) (e.g., Figure 2 The signals broadcast by electronic devices 101, 210, 220, and / or 230. For example, NAN cluster synchronization may include a series of operations in which electronic devices 101 included in the NAN cluster and external electronic devices 600 synchronize time resources and frequency resources (e.g., channels). For example, NAN cluster synchronization may be based on the electronic devices included in the NAN cluster (e.g., Figure 2 Electronic devices 101, 210, 220 and / or 230) electronic devices (or master devices in the NAN cluster) (e.g., Figure 2 The electronic device 101 executes the clock information.

[0130] According to an embodiment, in operation 613, electronic device 101 can search for external electronic device 600 for data transmission via SDF exchange within a discovery window synchronized with at least one external electronic device included in the NAN cluster, based on NAN cluster synchronization. For example, electronic device 101 can send an SDF subscription message within the discovery window based on the generation of a data transmission event. External electronic device 600 can send an SDF publish message within the discovery window in response to an SDF subscription message received from electronic device 101 within the discovery window. Electronic device 101 can identify external electronic device 600 for data communication based on the SDF publish message. Electronic device 101 can send an SDF add message within the discovery window in response to the SDF publish message.

[0131] According to an embodiment, in operation 615, electronic device 101 and external electronic device 600 can establish a data link for data communication. For example, electronic device 101 can send information related to a first schedule for data communication with external electronic device 600 to the external electronic device. For example, the information related to the first schedule can be sent within a discovery window via beacons, SDF, and / or NAF. For example, the information related to the first schedule may include at least one of the corresponding lower-level schedule information in at least one additional available window for data communication between electronic device 101 and external electronic device 600.

[0132] For example, external electronic device 600 may send a response signal corresponding to information related to the first schedule received from electronic device 101. For example, the response signal may include information related to "accepting" the information related to the first schedule, information related to a "counter" including information related to the modified first schedule, or information related to "rejecting" the information related to the first schedule.

[0133] For example, when receiving “accept” information related to the first scheduling information, electronic device 101 can determine that the NDP based on the first scheduling information is configured with external electronic device 600.

[0134] For example, when receiving information related to a "counter" that relates to modified information associated with the first schedule, electronic device 101 can identify the first schedule information modified by an external electronic device. When it is determined that the modified first schedule information has been accepted, electronic device 101 can determine that the NDP based on the modified first schedule information is configured with external electronic device 600.

[0135] For example, when receiving a "rejection" message related to the first scheduling information, electronic device 101 can determine that it cannot perform data communication with external electronic device 600.

[0136] For example, electronic device 101 and external electronic device 600 can perform authentication and security configuration processes for data communication.

[0137] According to an embodiment, in operation 617, electronic device 101 and external electronic device 600 can perform data communication via a configured NDP based on first scheduling information (or modified first scheduling information).

[0138] Figure 7 This is a flowchart 700 illustrating data communication between an electronic device and an external electronic device according to an embodiment. In the following embodiments, corresponding operations may be performed sequentially, but sequential execution is not required. For example, the order of operations can be changed, and at least two operations can be performed in parallel. For example, Figure 7 Electronic devices can be Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 or Figure 6 Electronic device 101.

[0139] According to the reference Figure 7 In various embodiments, during operation 701, the electronic device (e.g., Figure 1 , 2 Electronic devices 101 of type 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6, or processors (e.g., Figure 1 Processor 120 or Figure 5 The processor 500 can be based on the first scheduling information and the NAN cluster (e.g., Figure 2 External electronic devices (e.g., in the NAN cluster 200) included in the cluster) Figure 2 External electronic devices 210, 220 or 230 or Figure 6 The processor 500 can establish an NDP connection with an external electronic device 600. For example, the processor 500 can detect the external electronic device 600 for performing data communication via SDF exchange within a synchronized discovery window in the NAN cluster. For example, SDF exchange may include a series of operations for sending an SDF subscription message and receiving an SDF publish message in response to the SDF subscription message within the discovery window.

[0140] For example, processor 500 can control communication circuit 510 to establish a data link with external electronic device 600 based on first scheduling information to perform data communication. For example, the establishment of the data link may include a series of operations for negotiating scheduling information for data communication between electronic device 101 and external electronic device 600 within a discovery window.

[0141] For example, processor 500 can control communication circuit 510 to perform data communication with external electronic device 600 via NDP (Network DP) based on first scheduling information. For example, data communication with external electronic device can be performed using frequency bands and additional available windows configured based on the first scheduling information.

[0142] According to an embodiment, in operation 703, an electronic device (e.g., electronic device 101) or a processor (e.g., processor 120 or 500) can identify whether a switch to a low-power mode has been performed. For example, processor 500 can determine to switch to low-power mode when an event related to switching to low-power mode is generated while an NDP is established with an external electronic device. For example, the event related to switching to low-power mode can be generated based on at least one of the termination of a function or application related to data transmission or the traffic volume of the external electronic device.

[0143] According to an embodiment, when it is determined that switching to a low-power mode is not necessary (e.g., "No" in operation 703), the electronic device (e.g., electronic device 101) or the processor (e.g., processor 120 or 500) can terminate the embodiment for data communication with an external electronic device. For example, when no event associated with switching to a low-power mode is generated, processor 500 can control communication circuitry 510 to perform data communication with the external electronic device via NDP.

[0144] According to an embodiment, in operation 705, when it is determined that the switch to low power mode is initiated ("Yes" in operation 703), the electronic device (e.g., electronic device 101) or processor (e.g., processor 120 or 500) may store information related to the NDP established with the external electronic device. For example, the NDP-related information may include at least one of the following: information shared with the external electronic device via SDP exchange, information related to the first scheduling, authentication information related to the external electronic device, security configuration information, identification information of the electronic device and / or the external electronic device, or identification information in the firmware used for NDP identification.

[0145] According to an embodiment, in operation 707, an electronic device (e.g., electronic device 101) or a processor (e.g., processor 120 or 500) can maintain synchronization with an external electronic device based on second scheduling information. For example, when it is determined that a switch to a low-power mode is to be made, processor 500 can control communication circuitry 510 to send control information and scheduling change information related to the switch to the low-power mode to external electronic device 600. For example, as shown in [Table 1], the control information related to the switch to the low-power mode may include information related to a second scheduling for maintaining synchronization between electronic device 101 and the external electronic device based on synchronization signals of electronic device 101 and / or the external electronic device.

[0146] [Table 1]

[0147]

[0148]

[0149]

[0150] For example, based on the timing information of the AP as shown in [Table 2], the control information related to switching to low power mode may include information related to a second scheduling for maintaining synchronization between electronic device 101 and external electronic devices.

[0151] [Table 2]

[0152]

[0153]

[0154]

[0155] For example, as shown in [Table 3], scheduling change information may include information related to the removal of each of at least one subordinate scheduler associated with data communication using the NDP included in the first scheduling information.

[0156] [Table 3]

[0157]

[0158]

[0159]

[0160]

[0161]

[0162] For example, control information and / or scheduling change information related to switching to low-power mode can be sent based on Service Descriptor Attribute (SDA), Service Descriptor Extended Attribute (SDEA), Vendor-Specific Message Element (VISE), Vendor-Specific Attribute (VSA), or out-of-band (OOB) communication.

[0163] For example, when configured as a master device for synchronization with an external electronic device, processor 500 can control communication circuitry 510 to transmit beacons via a predetermined transmission interval configured based on second scheduling information for synchronization with the external electronic device. For example, electronic device 101 may operate in a communication state (e.g., a wake-up state) during the predetermined transmission interval and in a communication idle state for the remaining intervals other than the predetermined transmission interval. For example, the predetermined transmission interval may indicate the time interval for synchronization between electronic device 101 and an external electronic device, configured based on the second scheduling information for operation in low-power mode. For example, the size of the predetermined transmission interval may correspond to a discovery window for NAN communication, and the duration of the predetermined transmission interval may be configured as an integer multiple of the duration of the discovery window. For example, when electronic device 101 is configured as a master device for synchronization with an external electronic device in low-power mode, the transmission of discovery beacons via the discovery window may be restricted.

[0164] For example, when not configured as a master device for synchronization with an external electronic device, the processor 500 may maintain synchronization with the external electronic device based on synchronization beacons received from the external electronic device during a predetermined transmission interval configured based on second scheduling information.

[0165] For example, when accessing the same access point (AP) as the external electronic device, the processor 500 can maintain synchronization with the external electronic device during a predetermined transmission interval configured based on the AP time information received from the AP (e.g., Time Synchronization Function (TSF)).

[0166] For example, processor 500 can identify whether an NDP connection with an external electronic device is valid based on frames received from the external electronic device over a predetermined activity interval. When an NDP connection with the external electronic device is determined to be valid, processor 500 can maintain synchronization with the external electronic device. For example, frames received from the external electronic device may include synchronization beacons, SDF, NAF, or frames defined in a WLAN. For example, frames received from the external electronic device may be defined based on VISE.

[0167] According to an embodiment, in operation 709, an electronic device (e.g., electronic device 101) or a processor (e.g., processor 120 or 500) can determine whether to perform data communication with an external electronic device that maintains an NDP connection. For example, processor 500 can determine to perform data communication with external electronic device 900 when an event related to the release of a low-power mode is generated. For example, the event related to the release of a low-power mode can be generated based on at least one of the operation of a function or application related to data transmission, the input of a control signal related to data transmission, or the receipt of user input related to data transmission.

[0168] According to an embodiment, when it is determined that data communication will not be performed with an external electronic device that maintains an NDP connection (e.g., "No" in operation 709), the electronic device (e.g., electronic device 101) or the processor (e.g., processor 120 or 500) can terminate the embodiment for data communication with the external electronic device. For example, when it is determined that data communication will not be performed with an external electronic device that maintains an NDP connection, processor 500 can continuously maintain synchronization with the external electronic device based on second scheduling information.

[0169] According to an embodiment, in operation 711, when it is determined that data communication is being performed with an external electronic device maintaining an NDP connection ("Yes" in operation 709), the electronic device (e.g., electronic device 101) or the processor (e.g., processor 120 or 500) can perform data communication with the external electronic device based on NDP-related information. For example, when an event related to the release of the low-power mode is generated while the NDP connection with the external electronic device 600 is operating in low-power mode, the processor 500 can identify whether first scheduling information is supported. For example, the state of the NDP connection operating in low-power mode may include storing information related to the NDP with the external electronic device and maintaining synchronization with the external electronic device based on second scheduling information.

[0170] For example, when it is determined that the first scheduling information can be supported, the processor 500 can control the communication circuit 510 to send control information related to the release of the low-power mode to the external electronic device. For example, the processor 500 can control the communication circuit 510 to send information related to the addition of at least one lower-level schedule included in the first scheduling information to the external electronic device. For example, based on the control information related to the release of the low-power mode and based on the first scheduling information sent to the external electronic device, the processor 500 can control the communication circuit 510 to perform data communication with the external electronic device via NDP.

[0171] For example, when it is determined that the first scheduling information cannot be supported, the processor 500 can control the communication circuit 500 to send information related to a third scheduling for data communication with the external electronic device and control information related to the release of the low-power mode to the external electronic device. For example, the processor 500 can control the communication circuit 510 to perform data communication with the external electronic device via NDP based on the control information related to the release of the low-power mode and based on the third scheduling information sent to the external electronic device. For example, when the electronic device 101 receives information related to the "acceptance" of the third scheduling information from the external electronic device, it can perform data communication based on the third scheduling information. For example, the information related to the third scheduling may include information related to the addition of a lower-level scheduling supported by the electronic device 101 and information related to the removal of a lower-level scheduling not supported by the electronic device 101 from at least one lower-level scheduling included in the first scheduling information. For example, the information related to the third scheduling may include information related to the addition of a new lower-level scheduling not included in the first scheduling information.

[0172] For example, when receiving information related to the fourth scheduling from an external electronic device, the processor 500 can identify whether the fourth scheduling information is supported. If it is determined that the fourth scheduling information is supported, the processor 500 can control the communication circuit 510 to perform data communication with the external electronic device via NDP based on the fourth scheduling information. For example, if it is determined that the fourth scheduling information is supported, the processor 500 can control the communication circuit 510 to send information related to the "acceptance" of the fourth scheduling information to the external electronic device. For example, the fourth scheduling information can be received from the external electronic device via information related to the "counter" of the third scheduling information.

[0173] For example, when it is determined that the fourth scheduling information cannot be supported, the processor 500 can control the communication circuit 510 to send information related to the fifth scheduling generated based on the first and fourth scheduling information to an external electronic device. The processor 500 can control the communication circuit 510 to perform data communication with the external electronic device via NDP based on the fifth scheduling information. For example, when the electronic device 101 receives information related to "acceptance" of the fifth scheduling information from the external electronic device, data communication based on the fifth scheduling information can be performed. For example, data communication based on the fifth scheduling information can be performed even without a response signal from the external electronic device (e.g., information related to "acceptance"), because the fifth scheduling information includes information related to at least one lower-level scheduling supported by the electronic device 101 among those included in the fourth scheduling information.

[0174] According to an embodiment, when releasing the low-power mode, the electronic device 101 can configure the scheduling for data communication through negotiation based on first scheduling information with external electronic devices.

[0175] According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 and the external electronic device that maintain synchronization in low power mode can perform data communication by omitting the process of exchanging SDF related to NDF configuration, configuring data paths, authentication processes and / or configuring security processes, based on information related to the stored NDP for switching to low power mode.

[0176] Figure 8 This is a flowchart 800 illustrating synchronization between an electronic device and an external electronic device according to an embodiment. According to the embodiment, Figure 8 At least some of them can be Figure 7 The detailed operation of operation 707 is described below. In the following embodiments, the corresponding operations can be performed sequentially, but sequential execution is not required. For example, the order of operations can be changed, and at least two operations can be performed in parallel. For example, Figure 8 Electronic devices can be Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 or Figure 6 Electronic device 101.

[0177] According to the reference Figure 8 In an embodiment, during operation 801, when it is determined that the switch to a low-power mode has been initiated (e.g., "Yes" in operation 7), the electronic device (e.g., Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 or Figure 6 Electronic device 101) or processor (e.g., Figure 1 Processor 120 or Figure 5 The processor 500 can identify whether a predetermined transmission interval configured based on the second scheduling information has arrived. For example, the predetermined transmission interval can indicate the time interval for synchronization between the electronic device 101, configured based on the second scheduling information, and an external electronic device for maintaining operation in low-power mode. For example, the size of the predetermined transmission interval can correspond to the discovery window used for NAN communication. For example, the time period of the predetermined transmission interval is the configured value of "Synchronization Beacon Time Period in Power Saving Mode" in [Table 1], and can be configured as an integer multiple of the time period of the discovery window.

[0178] According to an embodiment, when a predetermined transmission interval has not been reached (e.g., "No" in operation 801), in operation 803, the electronic device (e.g., electronic device 101) or the processor (e.g., processor 120 or 500) can operate in a communication idle state. For example, the communication idle state may include a sleep state where NAN communication is restricted.

[0179] According to an embodiment, when a predetermined transmission interval is reached (e.g., "Yes" in operation 801), in operation 805, an electronic device (e.g., electronic device 101) or a processor (e.g., processor 120 or 500) can identify whether electronic device 101 is configured as a master device.

[0180] According to an embodiment, when the electronic device is configured as a master device (e.g., "Yes" in operation 805), in operation 807, the electronic device (e.g., electronic device 101) or the processor (e.g., processor 120 or 500) can transmit a synchronization signal (e.g., a synchronization beacon) during a predetermined transmission interval. For example, when the predetermined transmission interval arrives, the processor 500 can control the communication circuit 510 to switch to a communication state. The processor 500 can transmit the synchronization signal through the communication circuit 510, which has already been switched to an active state. For example, when the electronic device 101 operates in a low-power mode, even when the electronic device is configured as a master device for synchronization with external electronic devices, the processor 500 can control the communication circuit 510 to restrict the transmission of discovery beacons through the discovery window.

[0181] According to an embodiment, when the electronic device is not configured as a master device (e.g., "No" in operation 805), in operation 809, the electronic device (e.g., electronic device 101) or the processor (e.g., processor 120 or 500) can maintain synchronization with the external electronic device based on a synchronization signal (e.g., a synchronization beacon) received from the external electronic device during a predetermined transmission interval. For example, when the predetermined transmission interval arrives, processor 500 can control communication circuit 510 to switch to a communication state. Processor 500 can obtain the time information (e.g., TSF) of the external electronic device from the synchronization signal received from the external electronic device through the communication circuit 510, which has been switched to an active state. Processor 500 can synchronize the time information of electronic device 101 with the external electronic device based on the time information of the external electronic device.

[0182] According to an embodiment, when electronic device 101 operates in low-power mode with external electronic device 600, electronic device 101 can identify whether the NDP connection with external electronic device 600 is valid based on frames received from external electronic device 600 through predetermined activity intervals. For example, frames received from external electronic device 600 may include synchronization beacons, SDF, NAF, or frames defined in a WLAN. For example, frames received from external electronic device 600 may be defined based on VISE. For example, when it is determined that the NDP connection with external electronic device 600 is valid, electronic device 101 can maintain synchronization with external electronic device 600. For example, when it is determined that the NDP connection with external electronic device 600 is invalid, electronic device 101 can release the NDP connection with external electronic device 600. Electronic device 101 can discard information related to the NDP of external electronic device 600 (e.g., first scheduling information and second scheduling information) based on the release of the NDP connection with external electronic device 600, and limit the execution of the synchronization process with external electronic device 600.

[0183] Figure 9An example is shown where an electronic device keeps synchronized with an external electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0184] According to the reference Figure 9 In an embodiment, during operation 911, electronic device 101 and external electronic device 900 (e.g., Figure 2 External electronic devices 210, 220, or 230 can perform NAN cluster synchronization. For example, electronic device 101 and external electronic device 900 can perform synchronization with a NAN cluster based on NAN cluster information, which includes the cluster (or network) implemented in the NAN scheme (e.g., Figure 2 The electronic devices included in the cluster 200) (e.g., Figure 2 The signals broadcast by electronic devices 101, 210, 220 and / or 230.

[0185] According to an embodiment, in operation 913, electronic device 101 may be synchronized with the NAN cluster and search for external electronic device 900 for data transmission via SDF exchange within a discovery window synchronized with at least one external electronic device included in the NAN cluster.

[0186] According to an embodiment, in operation 915, electronic device 101 and external electronic device 900 can establish a data link for data communication. For example, electronic device 101 can establish a data link with external electronic device 900 based on first scheduling information for data communication with external electronic device 900. For example, the first scheduling information may include at least one of the corresponding lower-level scheduling information in at least one additional available window for data communication between electronic device 101 and external electronic device 900. For example, electronic device 101 and external electronic device 900 can perform authentication and security configuration processes for data communication.

[0187] According to an embodiment, in operation 917, electronic device 101 and external electronic device 900 can perform data communication through an NDP configured based on first scheduling information.

[0188] According to an embodiment, in operation 919, electronic device 101 may perform synchronization with external electronic device 900 to maintain NDP with external electronic device 900 based on the generation of events related to switching to low power mode. For example, based on the generation of events related to switching to low power mode, electronic device 101 and external electronic device 900 may store information related to the NDP established with external electronic device 900.

[0189] For example, based on the generation of events related to switching to a low-power mode, electronic device 101 and external electronic device 900 can maintain synchronization based on second scheduling information that is different from the first scheduling information.

[0190] For example, when configured as a master device for synchronization with an external electronic device 900, the electronic device 101 can transmit a synchronization beacon via a predetermined transmission interval configured based on second scheduling information for synchronization with the external electronic device 900. For example, the predetermined transmission interval can indicate the time interval for synchronization between the electronic device 101 and the external electronic device, configured based on the second scheduling information included in [Table 1] for maintaining operation in low-power mode. For example, the size of the predetermined transmission interval can correspond to a discovery window for NAN communication. For example, the time period of the predetermined transmission interval is the configured value for "Synchronization Beacon Time Period in Power Saving Mode" in [Table 1], and can be configured as an integer multiple of the time period of the discovery window.

[0191] For example, external electronic device 900 can maintain synchronization with electronic device 101 based on synchronization beacons received from electronic device 101 during a predetermined transmission interval configured based on second scheduling information. For example, electronic device 101 and external electronic device 900 can operate in a communication state (e.g., a wake-up state) during the predetermined transmission interval and in a communication idle state during the remaining intervals other than the predetermined transmission interval.

[0192] According to an embodiment, in operation 921, electronic device 101 may determine whether to perform data communication with external electronic device 900 that maintains an NDP connection. For example, electronic device 101 may determine to perform data communication with external electronic device 900 when an event related to the release of a low-power mode is generated. For example, the event related to the release of a low-power mode may be generated based on at least one of the operation of a function or application related to data transmission, the input of a control signal related to data transmission, or the receipt of user input related to data transmission.

[0193] According to an embodiment, when it is determined in operation 921 that data communication is performed with an external electronic device 900 that maintains an NDP connection, in operation 923, electronic device 101 may perform data communication with external electronic device 900 based on information related to the NDP of external electronic device 900.

[0194] For example, when an event related to the release of the low-power mode is generated while the NDP connection with the external electronic device 900 is operating in low-power mode, the electronic device 101 may identify whether it can support the first scheduling information. For example, the state of operating the NDP connection in low-power mode may include storing information related to the NDP with the external electronic device 900 and maintaining synchronization with the external electronic device 900 based on the second scheduling information in operation 919.

[0195] For example, when it is determined that the first scheduling information can be supported, the electronic device 101 may send control information related to the release of the low-power mode to the external electronic device 900. For example, the control information related to the release of the low-power mode may be sent to the external electronic device 900 together with information related to the addition of at least one subordinate scheduling included in the first scheduling information.

[0196] For example, when it is determined that the first scheduling information cannot be supported, electronic device 101 may send information related to a third scheduling for data communication with external electronic device 900 and control information related to the release of low-power mode to external electronic device 900. For example, the information related to the third scheduling may include information related to the addition of a lower-level scheduling supported by electronic device 101 and information related to the removal of a lower-level scheduling not supported by electronic device 101 from at least one of the lower-level schedulings included in the first scheduling information. For example, the information related to the third scheduling may include information related to the addition of a new lower-level scheduling not included in the first scheduling information.

[0197] For example, electronic device 101 can perform data communication with external electronic device 900 via NDP based on first scheduling information or third scheduling information.

[0198] For example, when receiving information related to the fourth scheduling from external electronic device 900, electronic device 101 can identify whether it supports the fourth scheduling. When it is determined that it supports the fourth scheduling, electronic device 101 can perform data communication with external electronic device 900 through NDP based on the fourth scheduling information.

[0199] According to an embodiment, information related to NDP can be stored at the time when the electronic device 101 and the external electronic device 600 determine the time when the NDP configuration between the electronic device 101 and the external electronic device 600 is completed or when the NDP configuration between the electronic device 101 and the external electronic device 600 is completed.

[0200] Figure 10 This is a flowchart 1000 illustrating synchronization between an electronic device and an external electronic device according to an embodiment. According to the embodiment, Figure 10 At least some of them can be Figure 7 The detailed operation of operation 707 is described below. In the following embodiments, the corresponding operations can be performed sequentially, but sequential execution is not required. For example, the order of operations can be changed, and at least two operations can be performed in parallel. For example, Figure 10 Electronic devices can be Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 or Figure 6 Electronic device 101.

[0201] According to the reference Figure 10 In an embodiment, when it is determined to switch to a low-power mode (e.g., Figure 7 In operation 703, "Yes" is used; in operation 1001, the electronic device (e.g., Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 or Figure 6 Electronic device 101) or processor (e.g., Figure 1 Processor 120 or Figure 5 The processor 500 can identify whether electronic device 101 and external electronic device are connected to the same AP. For example, the processor 500 can identify whether electronic device 101 and external electronic device are connected to the same AP based on at least one of OOB communication, Layer 3 search associated with Universal Plug and Play (uPnP), WLAN search (e.g., Wi-Fi Direct or NAN communication), or cloud solution.

[0202] According to an embodiment, when not connected to the same AP (e.g., "No" in operation 1001), the electronic device (e.g., electronic device 101) or processor (e.g., processor 120 or 500) can terminate the embodiment for synchronization with the external electronic device based on the AP. For example, when electronic device 101 is not connected to the same AP as the external electronic device, the electronic device can maintain synchronization with the external electronic device based on the synchronization beacon of electronic device 101 and / or the external electronic device, such as... Figure 8 The operations are shown in 801 to 809.

[0203] According to an embodiment, when electronic device 100 and an external electronic device are connected to the same AP (e.g., "Yes" in operation 1001), in operation 1003, the electronic device (e.g., electronic device 101) or the processor (e.g., processor 120 or 500) can identify whether a predetermined transmission interval configured based on second scheduling information has arrived. For example, the predetermined transmission interval can indicate the time interval for synchronization between electronic device 101 and the external electronic device, configured based on the second scheduling information to maintain operation in low-power mode. For example, the size of the predetermined transmission interval can correspond to a discovery window for NAN communication. For example, the time period of the predetermined transmission interval is the configured value of "Synchronization beacon period in power-saving mode" in [Table 1], and can be configured as an integer multiple of the time period of the discovery window.

[0204] According to an embodiment, when a predetermined transmission interval has not been reached (e.g., "No" in operation 1003), in operation 1005, the electronic device (e.g., electronic device 101) or the processor (e.g., processor 120 or 500) may operate in a communication idle state. For example, the communication idle state may include a sleep state where NAN communication is restricted.

[0205] According to an embodiment, when a predetermined transmission interval is reached (e.g., "Yes" in operation 1003), in operation 1007, an electronic device (e.g., electronic device 101) or a processor (e.g., processor 120 or 500) can maintain synchronization with an external electronic device based on AP time information received from the AP during the predetermined transmission interval. For example, when the predetermined transmission interval is reached, processor 500 can control communication circuit 510 to switch to a communication state. Processor 500 can maintain synchronization with an external electronic device during the predetermined transmission interval based on the configuration value of "Time Function or Offset to Reference" in [Table 2] and the AP time information. For example, AP time information (e.g., TSF) can be obtained from the AP through a predetermined individual reception interval configured independently of the predetermined transmission interval.

[0206] According to an embodiment, when electronic device 101 and external electronic device 600 are connected to the same group owner (GO) via WLAN-based direct communication (e.g., Wi-Fi Direct), electronic device 101 and external electronic device 600 can maintain synchronization based on GO time information received from the GO during a predetermined transmission interval. For example, the GO is a node that controls the WLAN-based direct communication and may include devices different from electronic device 101 and external electronic device connected via WLAN-based direct communication.

[0207] According to an embodiment, when electronic device 101 and external electronic device 600 operate in low-power mode, the electronic device can identify whether the NDP connection with the external electronic device is valid based on frames received from the external electronic device 600 through a predetermined activity interval. For example, when it is determined that the NDP connection with the external electronic device 600 is valid, electronic device 101 can maintain synchronization with the external electronic device 600 based on AP time information. For example, when it is determined that the NDP connection with the external electronic device 600 is invalid, electronic device 101 can release the NDP connection with the external electronic device 600. Electronic device 101 can discard information related to the NDP of the external electronic device 600 based on the release of the NDP connection with the external electronic device 600 and limit the execution of the synchronization process with the external electronic device 600. For example, the predetermined activity interval can indicate a time interval configured based on second scheduling information to identify whether the NDP connection between electronic device 101 and the external electronic device is valid when operating in low-power mode.

[0208] Figure 11 An example is shown where an electronic device keeps synchronized with an external electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0209] According to the reference Figure 11 In an embodiment, during operation 1111, electronic device 101 and external electronic device 1102 (e.g., Figure 2 External electronic devices 210, 220, or 230 can perform NAN cluster synchronization. For example, electronic device 101 and external electronic device 1102 can perform synchronization with a NAN cluster based on NAN cluster information, which is included in the cluster (or network) implemented in the NAN scheme (e.g., Figure 2 The electronic devices included in the cluster 200) (e.g., Figure 2 The signals broadcast by electronic devices 101, 210, 220 and / or 230.

[0210] According to an embodiment, in operation 1113, electronic device 101 can be based on NAN cluster synchronization and search for external electronic device 1102 for data transmission via SDF exchange within a discovery window synchronized with at least one external electronic device included in the NAN cluster.

[0211] According to an embodiment, in operation 1115, electronic device 101 and external electronic device 1102 can establish a data link for data communication. For example, electronic device 101 can establish a data link with external electronic device 1102 based on first scheduling information for data communication with external electronic device 1102. For example, the first scheduling information may include at least one of the corresponding lower-level scheduling information in at least one additional available window for data communication between electronic device 101 and external electronic device 1102. According to an embodiment, electronic device 101 and external electronic device 1102 can perform authentication and security configuration processes for data communication.

[0212] According to an embodiment, in operation 1117, electronic device 101 and external electronic device 1102 can perform data communication through an NDP configured based on first scheduling information.

[0213] According to an embodiment, in operation 1119, electronic device 101 may perform synchronization with external electronic device 1102 to maintain NDP with external electronic device 1102 based on the generation of events related to switching to low power mode. For example, based on the generation of events related to switching to low power mode, electronic device 101 and external electronic device 1102 may store information related to the NDP established with external electronic device 1102. For example, based on the generation of events related to switching to low power mode, electronic device 101 and external electronic device 1102 may maintain synchronization based on second scheduling information different from the first scheduling information.

[0214] For example, when electronic device 101 is connected to the same AP as external electronic device 1102, the electronic device can obtain AP 1100's time information from AP 1100 through a predetermined transmission interval configured based on second scheduling information for synchronization with external electronic device 1102. Time synchronization with the external electronic device can be maintained based on the time information of AP 1100 (e.g., TSF) of electronic device 101 and offset information included in the second scheduling information. For example, the predetermined transmission interval can indicate the time interval for synchronization between electronic device 101 and the external electronic device, configured based on the second scheduling information for maintaining operation in low-power mode. For example, the size of the predetermined transmission interval can correspond to the discovery window used for NAN communication. For example, the time period of the predetermined transmission interval is the configured value of "Beacon Time Period of New Time Reference Entity" in [Table 2], and can be configured as an integer multiple of the time period of the discovery window.

[0215] According to an embodiment, in operation 1121, electronic device 101 can determine whether to perform data communication with external electronic device 1102 that maintains an NDP connection. For example, electronic device 101 can determine to perform data communication with external electronic device 1102 when an event related to the release of a low-power mode is generated. For example, the event related to the release of a low-power mode can be generated based on at least one of the operation of a function or application related to data transmission, the input of a control signal related to data transmission, or the receipt of user input related to data transmission.

[0216] According to an embodiment, when it is determined in operation 1121 that data communication is to be performed with an external electronic device 1102 having a maintained NDP connection, in operation 1123, electronic device 101 may perform data communication with external electronic device 1102 based on information related to the NDP of external electronic device 1102. For example, when an event related to the release of the low-power mode is generated while the NDP connection with external electronic device 1102 is operating in a low-power mode, electronic device 101 may identify whether first scheduling information can be supported. For example, the state of the NDP connection operating in low-power mode may include storing information related to the NDP of external electronic device 1102 (e.g., first scheduling information) and maintaining synchronization with external electronic device 1102 based on second scheduling information (operation 1119).

[0217] For example, when it is determined that the first scheduling information can be supported, electronic device 101 can send control information related to the release of the low-power mode to external electronic device 1102. For example, the control information related to the release of the low-power mode can be sent to external electronic device 1102 together with information related to the addition of at least one lower-level scheduler included in the first scheduling information. For example, electronic device 101 can perform data communication with external electronic device 1102 via NDP based on the first scheduling information.

[0218] For example, when it is determined that the first scheduling information cannot be supported, electronic device 101 may send information related to a third scheduling for data communication with external electronic device 1102 and control information related to the release of a low-power mode to external electronic device 1102. For example, the information related to the third scheduling may include information related to the addition of a lower-level scheduling supported by electronic device 101 and information related to the removal of a lower-level scheduling not supported by electronic device 101 from at least one of the lower-level schedulings included in the first scheduling information. For example, the information related to the third scheduling may include information related to the addition of a new lower-level scheduling not included in the first scheduling information. For example, electronic device 101 may perform data communication with external electronic device 102 via NDP based on the third scheduling information.

[0219] For example, when receiving information related to the fourth scheduling from external electronic device 1102, electronic device 101 can identify whether it supports the fourth scheduling. When it is determined that it supports the fourth scheduling, electronic device 101 can perform data communication with external electronic device 1102 through NDP based on the fourth scheduling information.

[0220] Figure 12 This is a flowchart 1200 illustrating data communication between an electronic device and an external electronic device according to an embodiment. According to the embodiment, Figure 12 At least some of them can be Figure 7The detailed operation of operation 711 is described below. In the following embodiments, the corresponding operations can be performed sequentially, but sequential execution is not required. For example, the order of operations can be changed, and at least two operations can be performed in parallel. For example, Figure 12 Electronic devices can be Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 or Figure 6 Electronic device 101.

[0221] According to the reference Figure 12 In an embodiment, during operation 1201, when maintaining synchronization with an external electronic device connected to the NDP (e.g., Figure 7 Operation 707), electronic devices (e.g., Figure 1 , 2 Electronic devices 101 of type 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6, or processors (e.g., Figure 1 Processor 120 or Figure 5 The processor 500 can determine whether to perform data communication with an external electronic device 900 that is operating in low-power mode and is associated with the NDP. For example, when an event related to the release of low-power mode is generated, the processor 500 can determine to perform data communication with the external electronic device 900. For example, the event related to the release of low-power mode can be generated based on at least one of the operation of a function or application related to data transmission, the input of a control signal related to data transmission, or the receipt of user input related to data transmission.

[0222] According to an embodiment, when it is determined that data communication with an external electronic device associated with the NDP is not to be performed in low-power mode (e.g., "No" in operation 1201), the electronic device (e.g., electronic device 101) or the processor (e.g., processor 120 or 500) can terminate the embodiment for data communication with the external electronic device. For example, when it is determined that data communication with an external electronic device maintaining an NDP connection is not to be performed, processor 500 can continuously maintain synchronization with the external electronic device based on second scheduling information.

[0223] According to an embodiment, when it is determined that data communication is performed with an external electronic device associated with an NDP operating in low power mode (e.g., "Yes" in operation 1201), in operation 1203, the electronic device (e.g., electronic device 101) or the processor (e.g., processor 120 or 500) may identify whether it is able to support first scheduling information. For example, processor 500 may identify whether it is able to support at least one of the subordinate scheduling information included in the first scheduling information.

[0224] According to an embodiment, when it is determined that the first scheduling information can be supported (e.g., "Yes" in operation 1203), in operation 1205, an electronic device (e.g., electronic device 101) or a processor (e.g., processor 120 or 500) can send control information related to the release of the low-power mode to an external electronic device. For example, the control information related to the release of the low-power mode can be sent during a predetermined transmission interval based on the second scheduling information. For example, the control information related to the release of the low-power mode can be sent via OOB communication. For example, based on the synchronization scheme between electronic device 101 and the external electronic device, the control information related to the release of the low-power mode may include information from [Table 1] or [Table 2]. For example, the control information related to the release of the low-power mode may be sent to the external electronic device along with information related to the addition of at least one lower-level schedule included in the first scheduling information.

[0225] According to an embodiment, in operation 1207, an electronic device (e.g., electronic device 101) or a processor (e.g., processor 120 or 500) can perform data communication with an external electronic device via NDP based on first scheduling information. For example, when receiving information related to "acceptance" of the first scheduling information from an external electronic device, processor 500 can control communication circuit 510 to perform data communication with the external electronic device via NDP based on the first scheduling information.

[0226] According to an embodiment, when it is determined that the first scheduling information cannot be supported (e.g., "No" in operation 1203), in operation 1209, an electronic device (e.g., electronic device 101) or a processor (e.g., processor 120 or 500) may send information related to a third scheduling for data communication with the external electronic device and control information related to the release of a low-power mode to an external electronic device. For example, the information related to the third scheduling and the control information related to the release of a low-power mode may be sent at predetermined transmission intervals based on the second scheduling information. For example, the information related to the third scheduling and the control information related to the release of a low-power mode may be sent via OOB communication. For example, the information related to the third scheduling may include information related to the addition of a lower-level scheduling supported by electronic device 101 and information related to the removal of a lower-level scheduling not supported by electronic device 101 from at least one lower-level scheduling included in the first scheduling information. For example, the information related to the third scheduling may include information related to the addition of a new lower-level scheduling not included in the first scheduling information.

[0227] According to an embodiment, during operation 1211, an electronic device (e.g., electronic device 101) or a processor (e.g., processor 120 or 500) can perform data communication with an external electronic device via NDP based on third scheduling information. For example, when receiving information related to "acceptance" of the third scheduling information from an external electronic device, processor 500 can control communication circuit 510 to perform data communication with the external electronic device via NDP based on the third scheduling information.

[0228] According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 and the external electronic device that maintain synchronization in low power mode can perform data communication by omitting the process of exchanging SDF related to NDF configuration, configuring data paths, authentication processes and / or configuring security processes, based on information related to the stored NDP for switching to low power mode.

[0229] Figure 13 This is a flowchart 1300 illustrating data communication between an electronic device and an external electronic device according to an embodiment. According to the embodiment, Figure 13 At least some of them can be Figure 7 The detailed operation of operation 711 is described below. In the following embodiments, the corresponding operations can be performed sequentially, but sequential execution is not required. For example, the order of operations can be changed, and at least two operations can be performed in parallel. For example, Figure 13 Electronic devices can be Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 or Figure 6 Electronic device 101.

[0230] According to the reference Figure 13 In an embodiment, during operation 1301, when maintaining synchronization with an external electronic device connected to the NDP (e.g., Figure 7 Operation 707), electronic devices (e.g., Figure 1 , 2 Electronic devices 101 of type 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6, or processors (e.g., Figure 1 Processor 120 or Figure 5 The processor 500 can identify whether information related to the release of the low-power mode is received from an external electronic device associated with the NDP operating in low-power mode. For example, information related to the release of the low-power mode can be received during a predetermined transmission interval configured based on second scheduling information.

[0231] According to an embodiment, when no information related to the release of the low-power mode is received (e.g., "No" in operation 1301), the electronic device (e.g., electronic device 101) or the processor (e.g., processor 120 or 500) can terminate the embodiment for data communication with an external electronic device. For example, when no information related to the release of the low-power mode is received from an external electronic device maintaining an NDP connection, processor 500 can continuously maintain synchronization with the external electronic device based on second scheduling information.

[0232] According to an embodiment, when information related to the release of a low-power mode is received (e.g., "Yes" in operation 1301), in operation 1303, the electronic device (e.g., electronic device 101) or processor (e.g., processor 120 or 500) can identify scheduling information for data communication with an external electronic device. For example, the scheduling information for data communication with the external electronic device may include first scheduling information stored when a switch to a low-power mode is performed and third scheduling information newly configured by the external electronic device based on the release of the low-power mode.

[0233] According to an embodiment, in operation 1305, an electronic device (e.g., electronic device 101) or a processor (e.g., processor 120 or 500) may identify whether it is capable of supporting scheduling information received from an external electronic device for data communication with the external electronic device. For example, processor 500 may identify whether it is capable of supporting at least one of the subordinate scheduling information included in the scheduling information for data communication with the external electronic device (e.g., first scheduling information or third scheduling information).

[0234] According to an embodiment, when it is determined that scheduling information supporting data communication with an external electronic device is available (e.g., "Yes" in operation 1305), in operation 1307, the electronic device (e.g., electronic device 01) or processor (e.g., processor 120 or 500) can perform data communication with the external electronic device via NDP based on the scheduling information (e.g., first scheduling information or third scheduling information). For example, when it is determined that scheduling information supporting data communication with an external electronic device is available, processor 500 can send information related to "acceptance" of the scheduling information to the external electronic device. Processor 500 can control communication circuit 510 to perform data communication with the external electronic device via NDP based on the scheduling information.

[0235] According to an embodiment, when it is determined that scheduling information for data communication with an external electronic device cannot be supported (e.g., "No" in operation 1305), in operation 1309, the electronic device (e.g., electronic device 101) or the processor (e.g., processor 120 or 500) may send fourth scheduling information generated based on the scheduling information for data communication with the external electronic device to the external electronic device.

[0236] For example, when it is determined that scheduling information for data communication with external electronic devices cannot be supported, processor 500 can generate fourth scheduling information based on the scheduling information for data communication with external electronic devices. Processor 500 can control communication circuit 510 to send information related to a "counter" including the fourth scheduling information to the external electronic device. For example, the fourth scheduling information may include information related to the addition of a lower-level scheduling supported by electronic device 101 and information related to the removal of a lower-level scheduling not supported by electronic device 101 from at least one lower-level scheduling included in the scheduling information received from the external electronic device. For example, the fourth scheduling information may include information related to the addition of a new lower-level scheduling not included in the scheduling information received from the external electronic device.

[0237] According to an embodiment, in operation 1311, an electronic device (e.g., electronic device 101) or a processor (e.g., processor 120 or 500) can perform data communication with an external electronic device via NDP based on fourth scheduling information. For example, when receiving information related to "acceptance" of the fourth scheduling information from an external electronic device, processor 500 can control communication circuit 510 to perform data communication with the external electronic device via NDP based on the fourth scheduling information.

[0238] According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 and the external electronic device that maintain synchronization in low power mode can perform data communication by omitting the process of exchanging SDF related to NDF configuration, configuring data paths, authentication processes and / or configuring security processes, based on information related to the stored NDP for switching to low power mode.

[0239] Figure 14 An example of configuring an NDP with multiple external electronic devices according to an embodiment is shown.

[0240] According to the reference Figure 14 In embodiments, electronic device 101 can be connected to NAN cluster 1410 (e.g., Figure 2 The external electronic device 1 1420 and external electronic device 2 1422 included in the NAN cluster 200 perform NAN cluster synchronization.

[0241] According to an embodiment, electronic device 101 can configure NDP based on first scheduling information through SDP exchange and data link configuration with external electronic device 11420. Electronic device 101 can switch the NDP connection with external electronic device 11420 to a low-power mode based on events related to switching to a low-power mode. For example, electronic device 101 can store information related to the NDP of external electronic device 11420. Electronic device 101 can maintain synchronization with external electronic device 11420 based on second scheduling information different from the first scheduling information.

[0242] According to an embodiment, when the NDP connection with external electronic device 11420 is switched to low-power mode, electronic device 101 can additionally configure NDP with external electronic device 21422. For example, when external electronic device 21422 for data communication is detected while the NDP connection with external electronic device 11420 is switched to low-power mode, electronic device 101 can configure NDP based on sixth scheduling information through SDP exchange and data link configuration with external electronic device 21422. For example, the sixth scheduling information depends on the first scheduling information and may be the same as or different from the first scheduling information.

[0243] According to an embodiment, electronic device 101 can switch its NDP connection with external electronic device 2 1422 to a low-power mode based on an event related to switching to a low-power mode. For example, electronic device 101 can store information related to the NDP of external electronic device 2 1422 based on the switch to low-power mode. Based on the switch to low-power mode, electronic device 101 can maintain synchronization with external electronic device 2 1422 based on a seventh scheduling information that is different from the sixth scheduling information. For example, the seventh scheduling information is independent of the second scheduling information and can be the same as or different from the second scheduling information. For example, the NDP connection with external electronic device 1 1420, which has been switched to a low-power state, and the NDP connection with external electronic device 2 1422 can be managed independently of each other. For example, a search for external electronic device 2 1422 can be performed based on at least one of OOB communication, a Layer 3 search associated with Universal Plug and Play (uPnP), or a WLAN search (e.g., Wi-Fi Direct or NAN communication).

[0244] According to an embodiment, when an external electronic device 3 1424, which is included in the same group as electronic device 101, is discovered in operation 1431, electronic device 101 can configure NDP based on the eighth scheduling information in operation 1433 through SDF exchange and data link configuration with external electronic device 3 1424. For example, the eighth scheduling information is independent of the first scheduling information and / or the sixth scheduling information, and may be the same as or different from the first scheduling information and / or the sixth scheduling information.

[0245] According to an embodiment, electronic device 101 may switch the NDP connection with external electronic device 3 1424 to a low-power mode based on events related to switching to a low-power mode in operations 1435 and 1437. For example, when it is determined that no data communication will be performed with external electronic device 3 1424, electronic device 101 may switch the NDP configuration with external electronic device 3 1424 to a low-power mode.

[0246] For example, electronic device 101 may store NDP-related information with external electronic device 3 1424 based on switching to a low-power mode. Based on switching to low-power mode, electronic device 101 may maintain synchronization with external electronic device 3 1424 based on a ninth scheduling information different from the eighth scheduling information. For example, external electronic device 3 1424 included in the same group as electronic device 101 may include external electronic devices that include the same user account as electronic device 101. For example, the ninth scheduling information is independent of the second scheduling information and / or the seventh scheduling information, and may be the same as or different from the second scheduling information and / or the seventh scheduling information. For example, the same group as electronic device 101 may include at least one of the following: including electronic device 101's home group, business group, club group, or friends group. For example, external electronic device 3 1424 included in the same group as electronic device 101 may be discovered based on at least one of OOB communication, a Layer 3 search associated with Universal Plug and Play (uPnP), or a WLAN search (e.g., Wi-Fi Direct or NAN communication).

[0247] According to an embodiment, operating electronic devices (e.g., Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 or Figure 6 The method of the electronic device 101 may include the following operations: based on NAN clusters (e.g., Figure 2 External electronic devices (e.g., in the NAN cluster 200) included in the cluster) Figure 2 External electronic devices 210, 220 or 230 or Figure 6The method of operating the electronic device (600) configures the NAN data path (NDP) for data communication using first scheduling information. According to an embodiment, the method of operating the electronic device may include storing NDP-related information based on switching to a low-power mode associated with the NDP connection. According to an embodiment, the method of operating the electronic device may include maintaining synchronization with the external electronic device based on second scheduling information different from the first scheduling information. According to an embodiment, the method of operating the electronic device may include performing data communication with the external electronic device via the NDP of the external electronic device, based on information related to the NDP, when performing data communication with the external electronic device.

[0248] According to an embodiment, configuring NDP operations may include configuring NDP operations with external electronic devices through the exchange of Service Discovery Frames (SDF) with external electronic devices and data link configuration associated with first scheduling information.

[0249] According to an embodiment, a method of operating an electronic device may include the following operation: determining whether to switch the NDP connection with the external electronic device to a low-power mode based on the amount of data sent to and / or received from the external electronic device within a predetermined time.

[0250] According to an embodiment, a method of operating an electronic device may include determining whether to switch the NDP connection to an external electronic device to a low-power mode based on driving information of functions or applications related to data communication.

[0251] According to an embodiment, the operation of maintaining synchronization with an external electronic device may include the following operation: when the electronic device is configured as a master device, transmitting a synchronization beacon during a predetermined transmission interval configured based on second scheduling information.

[0252] According to an embodiment, the operation of maintaining synchronization with an external electronic device may include the following operation: when the electronic device is not configured as a master device, maintaining synchronization with the external electronic device based on a synchronization beacon received from the external electronic device during a predetermined transmission interval configured based on second scheduling information.

[0253] According to an embodiment, the operation of maintaining synchronization with an external electronic device may include the following operation: when the electronic device and the external electronic device are connected to the same access point (AP), maintaining synchronization with the external electronic device based on the time information of the AP.

[0254] According to an embodiment, the operation of performing data communication with an external electronic device may include the following operation: when performing data communication with an external electronic device, based on the determination that at least one lower-level schedule included in the first scheduling information is capable of supporting the data communication with the external electronic device via the NDP of the external electronic device.

[0255] According to an embodiment, a method of operating an electronic device may include: generating third scheduling information based on the first scheduling information when it is determined that at least some of the at least one of the lower-level scheduling included in the first scheduling information cannot be supported; and performing data communication with the external electronic device through an NDP based on the third scheduling information.

[0256] The embodiments of this disclosure presented in the specification and accompanying drawings are intended to readily describe the technical content according to the embodiments of this disclosure and to provide specific examples to aid in understanding the embodiments of this disclosure, but are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of this disclosure. Therefore, the scope of the various embodiments of this disclosure should be interpreted as including all changes or modifications derived from the technical concept based on the various embodiments of this disclosure and the embodiments disclosed herein within the scope of the various embodiments of this disclosure.

Claims

1. An electronic device comprising: The communication circuitry is configured to support wireless LAN (WLAN) communication. as well as A processor, operably connected to the communication circuit, The processor is configured as follows: Configure the NAN data path NDP based on the first scheduling information for data communication with external electronic devices included in the Neighbor Sensing Network (NAN) cluster. Information related to the NDP is stored based on switching to a low-power mode associated with the NDP connection; Based on second scheduling information that differs from the first scheduling information, maintain synchronization with the external electronic device; and When performing data communication with the external electronic device, data communication with the external electronic device is performed through the NDP of the external electronic device based on the information associated with the NDP.

2. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The processor is configured to determine, based on the amount of data sent to and / or received from the external electronic device within a predetermined time, whether to switch the NDP connection with the external electronic device to the low-power mode.

3. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The processor is configured to determine, based on driver information for functions or applications related to the data communication, whether to switch the NDP connection with the external electronic device to the low-power mode.

4. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The processor is configured to transmit a synchronization beacon during a predetermined transmission interval configured based on the second scheduling information, when the electronic device is configured as a master device.

5. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The processor is configured to maintain synchronization with the external electronic device based on a synchronization beacon received from the external electronic device during a predetermined transmission interval configured based on the second scheduling information, when the electronic device is not configured as a master device.

6. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The processor is configured to: When the electronic device and the external electronic device are connected to the same access point (AP), the time information of the AP is obtained; as well as During the predetermined transmission interval configured based on the second scheduling information, the time information based on the AP is kept synchronized with the external electronic device.

7. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein, The processor is configured to: In the case of performing the data communication with the external electronic device, determine whether at least one lower-level schedule included in the first scheduling information can be supported; as well as If it is determined that at least one lower-level scheduler included in the first scheduling information can be supported, data communication with the external electronic device is performed based on the first scheduling information via the NDP of the external electronic device.

8. The electronic device according to claim 7, wherein, The processor is configured to: If it is determined that at least some of the at least one lower-level schedules included in the first scheduling information cannot be supported, third scheduling information is generated based on the first scheduling information; as well as Based on the third scheduling information, the data communication with the external electronic device is performed through the NDP of the external electronic device.

9. A method of operating an electronic device, the method comprising: Configure the NAN data path NDP based on the first scheduling information for data communication with external electronic devices included in the Neighbor Sensing Network (NAN) cluster. Information related to the NDP is stored based on switching to a low-power mode associated with the NDP connection; Based on second scheduling information that is different from the first scheduling information, maintain synchronization with the external electronic device; as well as When performing data communication with the external electronic device, data communication with the external electronic device is performed through the NDP of the external electronic device based on the information associated with the NDP.

10. The method of claim 9, further comprising: Based on at least one of the amount of data sent to and / or received from the external electronic device within a predetermined time and driving information of functions or applications related to the data communication, it is determined whether to switch the NDP connection with the external electronic device to the low-power mode.

11. The method according to claim 9, wherein, Maintaining synchronization with the external electronic device includes: when the electronic device is configured as a master device, transmitting a synchronization beacon during a predetermined transmission interval configured based on the second scheduling information.

12. The method according to claim 9, wherein, Maintaining synchronization with the external electronic device includes: when the electronic device is not configured as a master device, maintaining synchronization with the external electronic device based on a synchronization beacon received from the external electronic device during a predetermined transmission interval configured based on the second scheduling information.

13. The method according to claim 9, wherein, Maintaining synchronization with the external electronic device includes: When the electronic device and the external electronic device are connected to the same access point (AP), the time information of the AP is obtained; and During the predetermined transmission interval configured based on the second scheduling information, the time information based on the AP is kept synchronized with the external electronic device.

14. The method according to claim 9, wherein, The execution of the data communication with the external electronic device includes: In the case of performing data communication with the external electronic device, determine whether at least one lower-level scheduling included in the first scheduling information can be supported; and If it is determined that at least one lower-level scheduler included in the first scheduling information can be supported, data communication with the external electronic device is performed based on the first scheduling information via the NDP of the external electronic device.

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising: If it is determined that at least some of the at least one lower-level schedules included in the first scheduling information cannot be supported, third scheduling information is generated based on the first scheduling information; as well as Based on the third scheduling information, the data communication with the external electronic device is performed through the NDP of the external electronic device.

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