Communication method and device

Abstract

Provided are a communication method and device, the communication method comprising: a first access point (AP) generating a first frame, the first frame comprising first information, the first information being used for indicating an extended bandwidth, the extended bandwidth being used for first AP communication, the extended bandwidth comprising a bandwidth of a first basic service set (BSS) and a part or all of a bandwidth of a second BSS, the first AP corresponding to the first BSS, and the second AP corresponding to the second BSS; the second AP corresponds to a second BSS; the first AP transmits a first frame. That is, in the AP discovery process, the first AP uses the extended bandwidth to communicate with the first AP by sending the first frame indication, so that the first AP can dynamically and flexibly use the large bandwidth for transmission, and the data transmission efficiency is improved.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of communication, and more particularly, to a communication method and apparatus. BACKGROUND

[0002] In the discovery process of an AP, each AP indicates the BSS channel information in the transmitted beacon frame or probe response frame, and the AP and all associated stations must perform data transmission within the declared BSS bandwidth. If the AP wants to change the BSS channel bandwidth, it can only perform channel switching. However, due to the large overhead of channel switching, the channel bandwidth remains unchanged for a long time after channel switching, which makes the data transmission less flexible. In addition, due to the dense deployment of APs and the limited available frequency spectrum, multiple APs are usually deployed on non-overlapping small bandwidths (such as 80MHz), which results in that even if the AP and the STA support large bandwidth (such as 320MHz) for data transmission at the same time, the large bandwidth cannot be used, resulting in a decrease in data transmission efficiency. SUMMARY

[0003] The present application provides a communication method and related apparatus, which provides a communication method and apparatus, and the first AP communicates by using the bandwidth of the first BSS and part or all of the bandwidth of the second BSS as an extended bandwidth at the same time, so that the first AP can dynamically and flexibly use large bandwidth for transmission.

[0004] In a first aspect, a communication method is provided, which can be performed by a first AP. In the absence of special description, the "first AP" in the present application can refer to the first AP itself, a component (such as a processor, a chip, or a chip system, etc.) in the first AP, or a logic module or software capable of realizing all or part of the functions of the first AP apparatus.

[0005] The method includes: a first access point (AP) generates a first frame, the first frame includes first information, the first information is used to indicate an extended bandwidth, the extended bandwidth is used for communication of the first AP, wherein the extended bandwidth includes bandwidth of a first basic service set (BSS) and part or all of the bandwidth of a second BSS, the first AP corresponds to the first BSS, and the second AP corresponds to the second BSS; and the first AP transmits the first frame. That is, in the discovery process of the AP, the first AP indicates to use the extended bandwidth for communication with the first AP by transmitting the first frame, so that the first AP can dynamically and flexibly use large bandwidth for transmission, and improve the data transmission efficiency.

[0006] In some implementations of the first aspect, the second AP is in a power saving mode. The power saving mode can be periodic or aperiodic. In the periodic power saving mode, the second AP is in a sleep state outside of a wake-up window and in the wake-up state within the wake-up window. In the aperiodic power saving mode, the second AP is in the sleep state and is woken up for data transmission. The use of the extended bandwidth before the wake-up window can further utilize the frequency resource.

[0007] In some implementations of the first aspect, the first frame further includes second information indicating a first window for communication using the extended bandwidth, wherein the first window does not overlap with a wake-up window of the second AP. The STA can determine the time period for using the extended bandwidth after receiving the second information, and use the extended bandwidth for communication only when the second AP is outside of the periodic wake-up window. The first AP can dynamically and flexibly use the extended bandwidth, and the communication of the second AP is guaranteed.

[0008] In some implementations of the first aspect, before the first AP generates the first frame, the method further includes: the first AP sending a second frame to the second AP, the second frame being used to request communication using the extended bandwidth function; and the first AP receiving a third frame sent by the second AP, the third frame being used to indicate acceptance of the first AP using the extended bandwidth function for communication. The second frame and the third frame are used for negotiation of the extended bandwidth function.

[0009] In some implementations of the first aspect, the second frame is further used to request communication using the first bandwidth and / or using the second window for the extended bandwidth function. The first AP can dynamically and safely use part or all of the bandwidth of the second AP as the extended bandwidth in a controllable environment through the negotiation between the first AP and the second AP.

[0010] In some implementations of the first aspect, the third frame is further used to indicate acceptance of the first AP using the first bandwidth and / or using the second window for the extended bandwidth function, or the third frame is further used to indicate the first AP using the second bandwidth and / or a third window for the extended bandwidth function. The first AP can dynamically and safely use part or all of the bandwidth of the second AP as the extended bandwidth in a controllable environment through the negotiation between the first AP and the second AP.

[0011] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the extended bandwidth does not overlap with the main channel of the second BSS. Alternatively, it can be understood that the extended bandwidth does not include the main channel of the second BSS. That is, the first AP disables the main channel of the second BSS as extended bandwidth. Therefore, if the second AP is woken up from sleep mode, it can use the main channel of the second BSS for data transmission, which helps reduce the latency of bursty traffic from the second AP. In this case, the second AP can indicate its wake-up window information and the bandwidth information of the second BSS used during the wake-up window in the beacon frame it sends. Alternatively, the second AP may not send a beacon frame, and the second AP and STA may default to using the corresponding BSS bandwidth information for data transmission, and outside the wake-up window, only the main channel can be used for data transmission.

[0012] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the first frame also includes third information, which indicates the first time of switching from the bandwidth of the first BSS to the bandwidth of the extended bandwidth. Alternatively, the third information can also indicate the time of switching from the extended bandwidth to the bandwidth of the first BSS. The first time can be specifically understood as the time taken to complete the bandwidth switch. Therefore, when the first AP and STA interact with each other on the extended bandwidth, they can add padding to the interaction frame according to the first time, thereby reserving sufficient time to switch to the corresponding channel in the extended bandwidth for data transmission and reception.

[0013] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the first frame is a beacon frame or a probe response frame. When the first frame is a beacon frame, the beacon frame can be sent via broadcast. When the first frame is a probe response frame, the probe response frame can be sent via broadcast, multicast, or unicast. Before proceeding to step S610, the first AP can also receive a probe request frame sent by the STA, and the probe response frame can specifically be a probe response frame in response to the probe request frame.

[0014] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, after the first AP sends the first frame, the method further includes: the first AP receiving a request frame from a station STA, the request frame being used to request association with the first AP, the request frame including fourth information, the fourth information being used to indicate whether the STA supports communication using extended bandwidth.

[0015] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the request frame also includes fifth information, which indicates the second time for switching from the first BSS bandwidth to the extended bandwidth. Specifically, the fifth information can refer to the second time the STA switches from the first BSS bandwidth to the extended bandwidth. The second time can be specifically understood as the time taken to complete the bandwidth switch. Therefore, when the first AP and STA interact with each other on the extended bandwidth, they can add padding to the interaction frame according to the first time, thus reserving sufficient time to switch to the corresponding channel in the extended bandwidth for data transmission and reception.

[0016] In conjunction with the first aspect, some implementations of the first aspect further include: the first AP receiving a sixth message from the STA, the sixth message being used to instruct the STA to enable the function of using extended bandwidth for communication. Therefore, only after the first AP determines that the STA has enabled the extended bandwidth function can the first AP and the STA use extended bandwidth for data transmission within the first window, ensuring that both the first AP and the STA switch to extended bandwidth within the first window, thus achieving high-bandwidth communication.

[0017] Secondly, a communication method is provided, which can be executed by an STA. Unless otherwise specified, "STA" in this application can refer to the STA itself, a component in the STA (e.g., a processor, a chip, or a chip system), or a logic module or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the STA device.

[0018] The method includes: the STA receiving a first frame from a first AP, the first frame including first information indicating extended bandwidth, the extended bandwidth being used for communication with the first AP, wherein the extended bandwidth includes the bandwidth of a first Basic Service Set (BSS) and part or all of the bandwidth of a second BSS, the first AP corresponding to the first BSS, and the second AP corresponding to the second BSS; the STA parsing the first frame. That is, during AP discovery, the first AP indicates the availability of extended bandwidth for communication by sending the first frame, thus allowing the STA to enable extended bandwidth transmission after receiving the first frame, dynamically and flexibly using the large bandwidth to communicate with the first AP, improving data transmission efficiency.

[0019] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the second AP is in a power-saving mode. This power-saving mode can be understood as "periodic scheduling power-saving mode and / or aperiodic scheduling power-saving mode." Specifically, the second AP can be in a wake-up state within a wake-up window, during which data transmission occurs; outside the wake-up window, it can be in a sleep state, during which no data transmission occurs; or the second AP can be woken up from a sleep state before data transmission occurs. By using part or all of the bandwidth of the AP in power-saving mode as extended bandwidth before the wake-up window, further utilization of frequency resources can be achieved.

[0020] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the first frame further includes second information, which is used to indicate the first window. The first window is used for communication using extended bandwidth, and the first window does not overlap with the wake-up window of the second AP. Therefore, after receiving the second information, the STA can confirm the usage time of the extended bandwidth and only use the extended bandwidth for communication when the second AP is outside its periodic wake-up window. This ensures both the dynamic and flexible use of extended bandwidth by the first AP and the communication of the second AP.

[0021] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the extended bandwidth does not overlap with the main channel of the second BSS. Alternatively, it can be understood that the extended bandwidth does not include the main channel of the second BSS. That is, the first AP disables the main channel of the second BSS as extended bandwidth. Therefore, if the second AP is woken up from sleep mode, it can use the main channel of the second BSS for data transmission, which helps reduce the latency of bursty traffic from the second AP. In this case, the second AP can indicate its wake-up window information and the bandwidth information of the second BSS used during the wake-up window in the beacon frame it sends. Alternatively, the second AP may not send a beacon frame, and the second AP and STA can use the corresponding BSS bandwidth information for data transmission by default, and outside the wake-up window, only the main channel can be used for data transmission.

[0022] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the first frame also includes third information, which indicates the first time of switching from the bandwidth of the first BSS to the bandwidth of the extended bandwidth. Alternatively, the third information can also indicate the time for switching from the extended bandwidth to the bandwidth of the first BSS. The first time can be specifically understood as the time taken to complete the bandwidth switch. Therefore, when the first AP and STA interact with each other on the extended bandwidth, they can add padding to the interaction frame according to the first time, thus reserving sufficient time to switch to the corresponding channel in the extended bandwidth for data transmission and reception.

[0023] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the first frame is a beacon frame or a probe response frame. When the first frame is a beacon frame, it can be sent via broadcast. When the first frame is a probe response frame, it can be sent via broadcast, multicast, or unicast. Before proceeding to step S610, the first AP can also receive a probe request frame sent by the STA, and the probe response frame can specifically be a probe response frame in response to the probe request frame.

[0024] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, after the STA receives the first frame from the first AP, the method further includes: the STA sending a request frame to the first AP, the request frame being used to request association with the first AP, the request frame including fourth information, the fourth information being used to indicate whether the STA supports communication using extended bandwidth.

[0025] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the request frame also includes fifth information. This fifth information indicates the second time at which the STA switches from the first BSS bandwidth to the extended bandwidth. Specifically, the fifth information refers to the second time the STA switches from the first BSS bandwidth to the extended bandwidth. This second time can be understood as the time taken to complete the bandwidth switch. Therefore, when the first AP and STA interact with each other on the extended bandwidth, they can add padding to the interaction frame based on the first time, thus reserving sufficient time to switch to the corresponding channel in the extended bandwidth for data transmission and reception.

[0026] In conjunction with the second aspect, some implementations of the second aspect further include: the STA sending a sixth message to the first AP, the sixth message instructing the STA to enable the function of using extended bandwidth for communication. Thus, only after the first AP determines that the STA has enabled the extended bandwidth function can the first AP and the STA use extended bandwidth for data transmission within the first window, ensuring that both the first AP and the STA switch to extended bandwidth within the first window, thereby achieving high-bandwidth communication.

[0027] Thirdly, a communication method is provided, which can be executed by a second AP. Unless otherwise specified, the "second AP" in this application can refer to the second AP itself, a component in the second AP (e.g., a processor, a chip, or a chip system), or a logic module or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the second AP device.

[0028] The method includes: a second AP receiving a second frame sent from a first AP, the second frame being a request to use the extended bandwidth function for communication; and the first AP sending a third frame to the second AP, the third frame being an indication that the first AP is willing to use the extended bandwidth function for communication. That is, the second and third frames are used for extended bandwidth function negotiation.

[0029] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations of the third aspect, the second frame is also used for communication requesting the use of the first bandwidth and / or the use of the second window for extended bandwidth functionality. Thus, through prior negotiation between the first AP and the second AP, the first AP can dynamically and securely use part or all of the second AP's bandwidth as extended bandwidth in a controlled environment.

[0030] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some implementations of the third aspect, the third frame is further used to instruct the first AP to use the first bandwidth and / or use the second window for extended bandwidth communication; or the third frame is further used to instruct the first AP to use the second bandwidth and / or the third window for extended bandwidth communication. Thus, through prior negotiation between the first AP and the second AP, the first AP can dynamically and securely use part or all of the second AP's bandwidth as extended bandwidth in a controlled environment.

[0031] Fourthly, a communication apparatus is provided for performing the method provided in the first aspect. Specifically, the communication apparatus may include units and / or modules for performing the method provided in any of the above implementations of the first aspect, such as a processing unit and an acquisition unit.

[0032] In one implementation, the transceiver unit can be a transceiver or an input / output interface; the processing unit can be at least one processor. Optionally, the transceiver can be a transceiver circuit. Optionally, the input / output interface can be an input / output circuit.

[0033] In another implementation, the transceiver unit can be an input / output interface, interface circuit, output circuit, input circuit, pin, or related circuit on the chip, chip system, or circuit; the processing unit can be at least one processor, processing circuit, or logic circuit.

[0034] Fifthly, a communication apparatus is provided for performing the method provided in the second aspect. Specifically, the communication apparatus may include units and / or modules for performing the method provided in the second aspect, such as a processing unit and an acquisition unit.

[0035] In one implementation, the transceiver unit can be a transceiver or an input / output interface; the processing unit can be at least one processor. Optionally, the transceiver can be a transceiver circuit. Optionally, the input / output interface can be an input / output circuit.

[0036] In another implementation, the transceiver unit can be an input / output interface, interface circuit, output circuit, input circuit, pin, or related circuit on the chip, chip system, or circuit; the processing unit can be at least one processor, processing circuit, or logic circuit.

[0037] In a sixth aspect, a communication apparatus is provided for performing the method provided in the third aspect. Specifically, the communication apparatus may include units and / or modules for performing the method provided in the second aspect, such as a processing unit and an acquisition unit.

[0038] In one implementation, the transceiver unit can be a transceiver or an input / output interface; the processing unit can be at least one processor. Optionally, the transceiver can be a transceiver circuit. Optionally, the input / output interface can be an input / output circuit.

[0039] In another implementation, the transceiver unit can be an input / output interface, interface circuit, output circuit, input circuit, pin, or related circuit on the chip, chip system, or circuit; the processing unit can be at least one processor, processing circuit, or logic circuit.

[0040] In a seventh aspect, this application provides a processor for executing the method provided by any of the implementations of the first to third aspects described above.

[0041] Unless otherwise specified, or if it does not contradict its actual function or internal logic in the relevant description, the transmission and acquisition / reception operations involved in the processor can be understood as processor output and reception, input and other operations, or as transmission and reception operations performed by radio frequency circuits and antennas. This application does not limit them in this regard.

[0042] Eighthly, a computer-readable storage medium is provided that stores program code for execution by a device, the program code including a method for performing any of the implementations of the first to third aspects described above.

[0043] Ninth aspect, a computer program product containing instructions is provided, which, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the method provided by any of the implementations of the first to third aspects described above.

[0044] In a tenth aspect, a chip is provided, the chip including a processor and a communication interface, wherein the processor reads instructions stored in a memory through the communication interface and executes the method provided by any of the implementations of the first to third aspects described above.

[0045] Optionally, as one implementation, the chip also includes a memory storing computer programs or instructions, and a processor for executing the computer programs or instructions stored in the memory. When the computer programs or instructions are executed, the processor is used to perform the methods provided by any of the first and second aspects described above.

[0046] Eleventhly, a communication system is provided, comprising the communication apparatus described in the fourth aspect, and the communication apparatus described in the fifth and sixth aspects. Attached Figure Description

[0047] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an application scenario applicable to an embodiment of this application.

[0048] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating another application scenario to which the embodiments of this application apply.

[0049] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a TWT element field provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0050] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an EHT operation element field provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0051] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a transmit power envelope element field provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0052] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0053] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a channel usage element field provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0054] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0055] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0056] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0057] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of an extended bandwidth provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0058] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of a first window provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0059] Figure 13 This is a schematic structural block diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0060] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of another communication device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0061] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of a chip system provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0062] First, in this application, "for indicating" can include both direct and indirect indication. When describing an indication message as indicating A, it can include whether the indication message directly indicates A or indirectly indicates A, but does not necessarily mean that the indication message carries A.

[0063] The information indicated by the instruction is called the information to be instructed. In the specific implementation process, there are many ways to indicate the information to be instructed, such as, but not limited to, directly indicating the information to be instructed, such as the information to be instructed itself or its index. It can also be indirectly indicated by indicating other information, where there is a relationship between the other information and the information to be instructed. It can also indicate only a part of the information to be indicated, while the other parts are known or pre-agreed upon. For example, the instruction of specific information can be achieved by using a pre-agreed (e.g., protocol-defined) arrangement of various pieces of information, thereby reducing instruction overhead to some extent. At the same time, common parts of various pieces of information can be identified and indicated uniformly to reduce the instruction overhead caused by individually indicating the same information.

[0064] Second, in this application, "at least one" refers to one or more, and "more than one" refers to two or more. Furthermore, in the embodiments of this application, "first," "second," and various numerical designations (e.g., "#1," "#2," etc.) are merely for descriptive convenience and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of this application. The sequence numbers of the processes below do not imply an order of execution; the execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of this application. It should be understood that the objects described in this way can be interchanged where appropriate to describe solutions other than those in the embodiments of this application. Moreover, in the embodiments of this application, terms such as "S310" are merely identifiers for descriptive convenience and do not limit the order of execution steps.

[0065] Third, in the embodiments of this application, the words "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate that they are examples, illustrations, or descriptions. Any embodiment or design that is described as "exemplary" or "for example" in this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or design options. Specifically, the use of the words "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner.

[0066] Fourth, in the implementation of this application, "protocol" may refer to standard protocols in the field of communications, such as the NR protocol and related protocols applied in future communication systems, and this application does not limit it.

[0067] Fifth, in the embodiments of this application, the terms "of", "corresponding (relevant)", "corresponding", and "associate" can sometimes be used interchangeably. It should be noted that when their differences are not emphasized, their intended meanings are consistent.

[0068] Sixth, in the embodiments of this application, "under the circumstances", "when", and "if" can sometimes be used interchangeably. It should be noted that when the distinction is not emphasized, their intended meanings are consistent.

[0069] Seventh, the term "and / or" in this article is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this article generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0070] Eighth, the accompanying drawings of the message structure in the embodiments of this application provide examples of field names in the message. It should be understood that the field names shown in the accompanying drawings of the embodiments of this application are merely examples, and in actual applications, the name of any field may change.

[0071] The technical solutions in this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0072] The technical solutions provided in this application can be applied to wireless local area network (WLAN) scenarios. For example, they support IEEE 802.11 related standards, such as 802.11a / b / g, 802.11n, 802.11ac, 802.11ax, 802.11be (Wi-Fi 7), also known as Extremely High Throughput (EHT), 802.11bn (Wi-Fi 8), or the next-generation Wi-Fi 8 standard. They also include 802.11ad and 802.11ay standards. Furthermore, they can be applied to ultra-wideband (UWB) based wireless personal area network systems, such as the 802.15 series standards, and to sensing systems, such as the 802.11bf series standards. This application can also support standard protocols such as Spark Link and Near Link. The 802.11n standard is called high throughput (HT), the 802.11ac standard is called very high throughput (VHT), the 802.11ax standard is called high efficient (HE), and the 802.11be standard is called extremely high throughput (EHT). 802.11bf includes two main categories: low-frequency (e.g., sub7GHz) and high-frequency (e.g., 60GHz) standards. Sub7GHz implementations primarily rely on 802.11ac, 802.11ax, 802.11be, and next-generation standards, while 60GHz implementations primarily rely on 802.11ad, 802.11ay, and next-generation standards. Among them, 802.11ad can also be called the directional multi-gigabit (DMG) standard, and 802.11ay can also be called the enhanced directional multi-gigabit (EDMG) standard.

[0073] Although the embodiments of this application are primarily illustrated using the deployment of WLAN networks, particularly those employing the IEEE 802.11 system standard, those skilled in the art will readily understand that the various aspects involved in the embodiments of this application can be extended to other networks employing various standards or protocols, such as high-performance radio local area networks (HIPERLANs), wireless wide area networks (WWANs), wireless personal area networks (WPANs), or other networks now known or developed in the future. Therefore, regardless of the coverage area and wireless access protocol used, the various aspects provided in the embodiments of this application can be applied to any suitable wireless network.

[0074] The technical solutions of this application embodiment can also be applied to various communication systems, such as: WLAN communication systems, wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) systems, long term evolution (LTE) systems, LTE frequency division duplex (FDD) systems, LTE time division duplex (TDD) systems, universal mobile telecommunication system (UMTS), worldwide interoperability for microwave access (WiMAX) communication systems, 5th generation (5G) systems or new radio (NR) systems, 6th generation (6G) systems, Internet of Things (IoT) networks or vehicle-to-everything (V2X) networks, etc.

[0075] The communication systems described above that are applicable to this application are merely illustrative examples, and the communication systems applicable to this application are not limited to these. They will be uniformly described here and will not be repeated below.

[0076] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an application scenario to which this application's embodiments apply. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the communication method provided in this application is applicable to access points (APs) (such as...). Figure 1 AP1 and AP2 shown) and stations (STA) (as shown) Figure 1The data communication between non-AP STA1, non-AP STA2, and non-AP STA3 shown in the diagram is an example of data communication between an AP and one or more non-AP stations (e.g., data communication between AP1 and non-AP STA1, non-AP STA2), data communication between APs (e.g., data communication between AP1 and AP2), and data communication between non-AP STAs (e.g., data communication between non-AP STA2 and non-AP STA3).

[0077] Access points are nodes that allow terminals (e.g., mobile phones) to access wired (or wireless) networks. They are mainly deployed in homes, buildings, and campuses, with a typical coverage radius of tens to hundreds of meters. Of course, they can also be deployed outdoors. An access point acts as a bridge connecting wired and wireless networks, its main function being to connect various wireless network clients together and then connect the wireless network to the Ethernet.

[0078] Specifically, the access point can be a terminal or network device with a Wi-Fi chip. This network device can be a server, router, switch, bridge, computer, mobile phone, relay station, vehicle-mounted equipment, wearable device, network equipment in a 5G network, network equipment in a 6G network, or network equipment in a public land mobile network (PLMN), etc., and this application embodiment is not limited to these. The access point can be a device that supports Wi-Fi standards. For example, the access point can also support one or more standards in the IEEE 802.11 series, such as 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11ac, 802.11ax, 802.11be, 802.11ad, and 802.11ay.

[0079] Non-AP sites can be wireless communication chips, wireless sensors, or wireless communication terminals, and may also be referred to as users, user equipment (UE), access terminals, user units, user stations, mobile stations, mobile stations, remote stations, remote terminals, mobile devices, user terminals, terminals, wireless communication equipment, user agents, or user devices. Non-AP sites can be cellular phones, cordless phones, session initiation protocol (SIP) phones, wireless local loop (WLL) stations, personal digital assistants (PDAs), handheld devices with wireless communication capabilities, computing devices or other processing devices connected to a wireless modem, in-vehicle devices, IoT devices, wearable devices, terminal devices in 5G networks, terminal devices in 6G networks, or terminal devices in PLMNs, etc., and this application embodiment is not limited to these. Non-AP sites can be devices that support WLAN standards. For example, non-AP sites can support one or more standards in the IEEE 802.11 series, such as 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11ac, 802.11ax, 802.11be, 802.11ad, and 802.11ay.

[0080] For example, non-AP sites can be mobile phones, tablets, set-top boxes, smart TVs, smart wearable devices, vehicle communication devices, computers, Internet of Things (IoT) nodes, sensors, smart home devices such as smart cameras, smart remote controls, smart water and electricity meters, and sensors in smart cities.

[0081] The aforementioned AP or non-AP sites may include transmitters, receivers, memory, processors, etc., wherein the transmitter and receiver are used for transmitting and receiving packet structures, respectively, the memory is used for storing signaling information and pre-agreed preset values, etc., and the processor is used for parsing signaling information and processing related data, etc.

[0082] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating another application scenario to which the embodiments of this application are applicable. For example... Figure 2 The embodiments described in this application are also applicable to scenarios including one or more AP multi-link devices (MLDs) and one or more non-AP MLDs. The AP MLDs include AP1 and AP2, and the non-AP MLDs include STA1 and STA2. Optionally, the communication system may also include one or more legacy STAs.

[0083] A multi-link device is a wireless communication device that supports parallel transmission across multiple links. Compared to communication devices that only support single-link transmission, multi-link devices offer higher transmission efficiency and greater throughput. Multi-link devices can also be referred to as multi-band devices.

[0084] A multi-link device can include one or more affiliated stations (STAs). An affiliated station can be a logical station or a physical station, and can operate on a single link. That is, the above-mentioned AP can specifically refer to an AP multi-link device (AP MLD), and non-AP can refer to a multi-link device (non-AP multi-link device, non-AP MLD).

[0085] A multi-link device includes one or more affiliated STAs. In other words, a multi-link device can include multiple logical sites, and one or more logical sites can correspond to one physical site. That is, one physical site can virtualize multiple logical sites, but these logical sites virtualized by the same physical site cannot simultaneously transmit and receive data. In the following text, a site can be either a logical site or a physical site, without distinction. Each site operates on one link. During data transmission, AP MLDs and non-AP MLDs can use link identifiers to identify a link or a site on a link. Before communication, AP MLDs and non-AP MLDs can negotiate or communicate the correspondence between link identifiers and a link or a site on a link.

[0086] For example, a multi-link device can be a device with wireless communication capabilities. This device can be a complete machine or a chip or processing system installed in the complete machine. Devices with these chips or processing systems installed can implement the methods and functions of the embodiments of this application under the control of these chips or processing systems. For example, the non-AP MLD in the embodiments of this application has wireless transceiver capabilities, supports the 802.11 series protocols, and can communicate with AP MLDs or other non-AP MLDs. For example, a non-AP MLD is any user communication device that allows users to communicate with an AP and thus with a WLAN. For example, a non-AP MLD can be a user device that can connect to the internet, such as a tablet, desktop, laptop, notebook computer, ultra-mobile personal computer (UMPC), handheld computer, netbook, personal digital assistant (PDA), or mobile phone; or an IoT node in the Internet of Things; or an in-vehicle communication device in the Internet of Vehicles; a non-AP MLD can also be a chip and processing system in these terminals. The AP MLD in the embodiments of this application can be a device that provides services to a non-AP MLD and can support the 802.11 series protocols. For example, the AP MLD can be a communication entity such as a communication server, router, switch, or bridge; or, the AP MLD can include various forms of macro base stations, micro base stations, relay stations, etc.; or, the AP MLD can also be the chip and processing system in these various forms of devices, thereby realizing the methods and functions of the embodiments of this application.

[0087] For ease of understanding, the technical terms used in the embodiments of this application are briefly introduced below. For example... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As described below, "AP" as used in the following text, such as "AP1" and "AP2", can also be understood as traditional "AP1" and traditional "AP2"; or "AP1" and "AP2" can belong to the same AP MLD; or "AP1" is "AP1 MLD" and "AP2" is "AP2 MLD". In addition, "STA" as used in the following text, such as "STA1" and "STA2", can also be understood as traditional "STA1" and traditional "STA2"; or "STA1" and "STA2" can belong to the same non-AP MLD; "STA1" is "first non-AP MLD" and "STA2" is "second non-AP MLD".

[0088] 1. AP Discovery Process

[0089] During AP discovery, a STA can discover the existence of an AP through active or passive scanning, and then associate with and establish a connection with the AP. Simply put, the purpose of an STA associating with and establishing a connection with an AP is to establish one or more links for communication between the STA and the AP.

[0090] During passive scanning, the STA can receive management frames sent by the AP on the channel. These management frames can be beacon frames or probe response frames. For example, the STA can hop between different channels to search for beacon frames sent by the AP. After obtaining the AP's management information through the beacon frames, the STA can further communicate with the AP through probe request frames to obtain other AP information.

[0091] During active scanning, the STA can actively broadcast a probe request frame even if no beacon frame is detected. After receiving the probe request frame, the AP can initiate a random channel access reply probe response frame if certain conditions are met (this embodiment does not impose restrictions on these conditions).

[0092] To assist STAs in performing rapid scanning, APs can carry a reduced neighbor report element in beacon frames or probe response frames to report relevant information about neighboring APs. This allows the STA to obtain neighboring AP information during scanning, select appropriate APs for association, and avoid continuous channel scanning, thus reducing STA scanning time. 802.11be specifies that in an AP MLD, a member AP needs to carry relevant information about other APs belonging to the same AP MLD through the reduced neighbor report element. That is, in this application, describing a neighbor relationship between two APs can specifically mean that the two APs are different devices, or it can mean that the two APs belong to the same AP MLD, depending on the specific circumstances.

[0093] 2. AP and STA association

[0094] In one possible implementation, during link establishment, the STA and AP can establish an association through an association process. For example, the association process might include: the STA sending an association request frame on the channel where it discovers the AP, carrying information about the STA. Upon receiving the association request, the AP replies with an association response frame, thus establishing (or completing) an association between the STA and the AP.

[0095] In another possible implementation, during multi-link establishment, the non-AP MLD and AP MLD can establish an association through an association process. For example, the association process may include: the non-AP MLD sending an association request frame on link 1, carrying STA-side information for link 1 and STA-side information for link 2. For instance, the association request frame may carry a multi-link element field, which carries information about the non-AP MLD and the stations within it. The AP MLD then sends an association response frame on link 1, carrying AP-side information for link 1 and AP-side information for link 2, thereby enabling STA1 and STA2 of the non-AP MLD to establish (or complete) associations with AP1 and AP2 of the AP MLD, respectively.

[0096] 3. Power Management Mode

[0097] For power management, the AP can be in active mode or power-saving mode. In power-saving mode, the AP's power state can switch between awake and doze states.

[0098] In one possible implementation, the power-saving mode can be a periodically scheduled AP power-saving mode. That is, the AP can establish a periodic wake-up window, and the AP is only awake and transmitting data within the wake-up window. Outside the wake-up window, the AP is in a sleep state and does not transmit data. In another possible implementation, the power-saving mode can also be a non-scheduled AP power-saving mode. In this mode, the non-AP MLD can send a wake-up request from a member AP in active mode to wake up another member AP in non-scheduled AP power-saving mode. After being woken up, the other member AP can switch from sleep to awake state, complete data transmission, and then switch back to sleep state.

[0099] 4. Target awake time (TWT)

[0100] The AP can send management frames (such as beacon frames and association request frames) and use the TWT element field in the management frame to indicate the AP's wake-up window, thereby transmitting data with the STA within the wake-up window.

[0101] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a TWT element field provided in an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 3 As shown, a TWT element can include an element ID, length, control, and TWT parameter information fields.

[0102] Taking a broadcast TWT element as an example, the TWT parameter information field can contain one or more broadcast TWT parameter set fields. For example, in broadcast TWT parameter set 1 and broadcast TWT parameter set 2 in the figure, the broadcast TWT recommendation subfield in the request type field of each broadcast TWT parameter set field is used to indicate the TWT type specified by the broadcast TWT parameter set. Its value of 4 indicates that this broadcast TWT parameter set corresponds to an r-TWT. If a broadcast TWT parameter set corresponds to an r-TWT, then the broadcast TWT info subfield in the TWT element field contains a one-bit r-TWT traffic info present subfield. The value of this bit is 1, which means that the TWT element field contains the r-TWT traffic info subfield shown in the figure, and 0 means that the TWT element field does not contain the r-TWT traffic info subfield shown in the figure. The broadcast TWT ID subfield represents the identifier of the TWT group.

[0103] Each TWT parameter set can include fields such as request type, target wake time, nominal minimum TWT wakeduration, TWT wake interval mantissa, broadcast TWT info, restricted TWT traffic info, and aligned TWT link bitmap. The restricted TWT info and aligned TWT link bitmap fields are optional.

[0104] The AP's wake-up window parameters can be indicated through the target wake-up time, nominal minimum TWT wake-up duration, and TWT wake-up interval fields mentioned above. The following provides an illustrative explanation of these three fields:

[0105] The Target Wake-up Time field indicates the start time of the target wake-up. This field can be 2 bytes long, with its least significant bit (bit 0) corresponding to bit 10 of the timestamp function (TSF). The TSF is 8 bytes long, with the target wake-up time specifically set to bits 25 through 10 of the TSF.

[0106] The nominal minimum TWT wake-up duration field indicates the duration of the TWT wake-up window. This field can be 1 byte long. When the wake duration unit subfield is set to 0, it means the duration of the TWT wake-up window is 256µs; when the wake duration unit subfield is set to 1, it means the duration of the TWT wake-up window is 1 time unit (TU), which is 1024µs.

[0107] The TWT wake interval field is used to represent the TWT wake interval value. The unit of the TWT wake interval value is milliseconds. The TWT wake interval can be equal to (TWT wake interval mantissa) × 2^(TWT wake interval exponent). Wherein, TWT wake interval represents the TWT wake interval value, TWT wake interval mantissa represents the TWT wake interval mantissa value, and TWT wake interval exponent represents the TWT wake interval exponent value.

[0108] 5. BSS bandwidth

[0109] An AP can send management frames (such as beacon frames and association response frames) to one or more STAs. These management frames include an operation element field. The operation element field carries bandwidth information, allowing one or more STAs to obtain the BSS bandwidth information provided by the AP.

[0110] In this application, the STA can be an HT STA supporting the 802.11n protocol, a VHT STA supporting the 802.11ac protocol, or an HE STA supporting the 802.11ax protocol. Correspondingly, an HT STA can obtain the bandwidth information of the BSS from the HT operation element field, a VHT STA can obtain the bandwidth information of the BSS from the HT and VHT operation element fields, an HE STA can obtain the bandwidth information of the BSS from the HE operation element field, and an EHT STA can obtain the bandwidth information of the BSS from the HT and EHT operation element fields.

[0111] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an EHT operation element field provided in an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 4 As shown, EHT operation element fields may include element ID, length, element ID extension, EHT operation parameters, and EHT operation information.

[0112] The High Throughput Operation Parameters field includes two subfields: the High Throughput Operation Information Present (EHT) subfield and the Disabled Subchannel Bitmap Present (Disabled Subchannel Bitmap) subfield. The High Throughput Operation Information Present subfield indicates whether the High Throughput Operation Information subfield exists. The Disabled Subchannel Bitmap Present subfield indicates whether the Disabled Subchannel Bitmap subfield exists.

[0113] The high-throughput operation information field may include a control subfield, a channel center frequency segmentation (CCFS) 0 subfield, a CCFS 1 subfield, and a disabled subchannel bitmap. The control subfield includes a channel width subfield. Additionally, this control field may include another reserved field.

[0114] The following shows an exemplary interpretation of some of the above subfields:

[0115] Channel bandwidth is used to indicate the channel bandwidth of the EHT BSS. Specifically, 0 indicates that the EHT BSS bandwidth is 20MHz. 1 indicates that the EHT BSS bandwidth is 40MHz. 2 indicates that the EHT BSS bandwidth is 80MHz. 3 indicates that the EHT BSS bandwidth is 160MHz. 4 indicates that the EHT BSS bandwidth is 320MHz.

[0116] CCFS0 is used to indicate the channel center frequency of 20MHz, 40MHz, or 80MHz; or the main 80MHz channel center frequency in a 160MHz EHT BSS bandwidth; or the main 160MHz center frequency in a 320MHz EHT BSS bandwidth.

[0117] CCFS1 is used to indicate the channel center frequency for a 160MHz EHT BSS bandwidth; or the channel center frequency for a 320MHz EHT BSS bandwidth; when the EHT BSS bandwidth is 20MHz, 40MHz, or 80MHz, this field is set to 0.

[0118] The enable / disable subchannel bitmap is used to indicate whether each 20MHz subchannel in the bandwidth of the EHT BSS is available.

[0119] 6. Transmit power

[0120] In addition, the AP can also indicate the transmit power information corresponding to the bandwidth of the BSS through the transmit power envelope element field in the management frame.

[0121] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a transmit power envelope element field provided in an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 5As shown, the transmit power envelope element field may include the following four fields: the first field is the element identified field, the second field is the length field, the third field is the transmit power information field, and the fourth field is the maximum transmit power field. The element identified field identifies the transmit power envelope element, and the length field indicates the total length of all fields following the length field within the transmit power envelope element. The transmit power information field and the maximum transmit power field indicate the maximum transmit power information corresponding to at least one basic channel, such as the maximum transmit power spectral density (PSD) or the equivalent isotropically radiated power (EIRP).

[0122] Specifically, the transmit power information field can include the following three subfields: maximum transmit power count, maximum transmit power interpretation, and maximum transmit power category. The maximum transmit power interpretation and maximum transmit power category subfields indicate the maximum transmit power information corresponding to at least one basic channel. The maximum transmit power category subfield indicates the category in which the maximum transmit power is applied; for example, this subfield indicates that the maximum transmit power indicated by this element applies to the default category. The meaning of the maximum transmit power count subfield also differs when the maximum transmit power interpretation subfield takes different meanings.

[0123] It should be noted that this application does not impose any special limitation on the size of the transmit power information field or the size of its subfields. For example, when the transmit power information field occupies 1 byte, the maximum transmit power number subfield can occupy 3 bits, the maximum transmit power interpretation subfield can occupy 3 bits, and the maximum transmit power type subfield can occupy 2 bits.

[0124] For example, Table 1 shows one way to interpret the maximum transmit power subfield.

[0125] Table 1

[0126]

[0127]

[0128] Specifically, when the value of the maximum transmit power interpretation subfield is 0 or 2 (Case A), the maximum transmit power count subfield is used to describe the EIRP of the local terminal or the monitored terminal. When the value of the maximum transmit power interpretation subfield is 1 or 3 (Case B), the maximum transmit power interpretation subfield is used to describe the EIRP PSD (or simply PSD) of the local terminal or the monitored terminal.

[0129] During AP discovery, each AP indicates its declared BSS bandwidth information in the management frames it sends. The AP and all associated stations must transmit data within this declared BSS bandwidth. If an AP wants to change its BSS channel bandwidth, it can only do so by switching channels. However, due to the high overhead of channel switching, the channel bandwidth typically remains unchanged for a long period after a switch, making data transmission inflexible. Furthermore, due to the dense deployment of APs and limited available spectrum, multiple APs are often deployed on non-overlapping, small bandwidths (e.g., 80MHz). This means that even if both the AP and STA simultaneously support large bandwidths (e.g., 320MHz) for data transmission, they cannot utilize the large bandwidth, resulting in reduced data transmission efficiency.

[0130] In view of the above problems, embodiments of this application provide a communication method and apparatus, which uses the bandwidth of the first BSS and part or all of the bandwidth of the second BSS as extended bandwidth for communication by the first AP, so that the first AP can dynamically and flexibly use large bandwidth for transmission.

[0131] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 6 As shown, the method includes steps S610-S630.

[0132] S610, the first AP generates a first frame, the first frame includes first information, the first information is used to indicate extended bandwidth, the extended bandwidth is used for communication of the first AP, wherein the extended bandwidth includes the bandwidth of the first BSS and part or all of the bandwidth of the second BSS, the first AP corresponds to the first BSS, and the second AP corresponds to the second BSS.

[0133] In some implementations, the first information includes at least one of the following corresponding to the extended bandwidth: channel width, channel center frequency band, disabled sub-channel bitmap, or transmit power information. This information specifically indicates the extended bandwidth.

[0134] In some implementations, the second AP can be in a power-saving mode. This power-saving mode can be understood as "periodic scheduling power-saving mode and / or aperiodic scheduling power-saving mode." Within the wake-up window, the second AP is awake and transmits data only during this period. Outside the wake-up window, it is in a sleep state and does not transmit data, or it transmits data only after being woken up from a sleep state. By using part or all of the bandwidth of the AP in power-saving mode as extended bandwidth before the wake-up window, further utilization of frequency resources can be achieved. Furthermore, the second AP can also be in a bandwidth contraction mode. In this mode, the second AP can transmit data using a portion of the bandwidth of the second BSS, lending the remaining unused bandwidth to the first AP. In this case, the first AP can further utilize frequency resources by using part or all of the bandwidth of the second AP in bandwidth contraction mode as extended bandwidth.

[0135] In some implementations, the first frame also includes second information, which indicates the first window used for communication with extended bandwidth. This first window does not overlap with the wake-up window of the second AP. Therefore, after receiving the second information, the STA can confirm the usage time of the extended bandwidth and only use it for communication when the second AP is outside its periodic wake-up window. This ensures both the dynamic and flexible use of extended bandwidth by the first AP and the communication of the second AP.

[0136] In some implementations, the second information includes at least one of the following corresponding to the first window: start time, duration, time interval between adjacent windows, or total number of windows. This information specifically indicates the first window. The first window can be an aperiodic window or a periodic window. For example, when the first window is an aperiodic window, the second information may specifically include the start time, duration, etc. For example, when the first window is a periodic window, the second information may specifically include the start time, duration, time interval between adjacent windows, and total number of windows, etc. The specific details are determined based on the actual situation.

[0137] In some implementations, the first frame also includes third information, which indicates the first time of switching from the bandwidth of the first BSS to the extended bandwidth. The first time can be specifically understood as the time taken to complete the bandwidth switch. In some cases, the first time can be the longest time determined by the first AP based on its own capabilities to complete the bandwidth switch. In some cases, the first AP can receive reporting information from STAs, which includes a second time of switching from the bandwidth of the first BSS to the extended bandwidth, and the first AP determines the first time based on this second time. In some cases, the first AP can also receive reporting information from multiple STAs, which includes the time when the corresponding STA among the multiple STAs switches from the bandwidth of the first BSS to the extended bandwidth, and the first AP determines the first time based on the multiple reporting information. Therefore, when the first AP and STAs exchange frames on the extended bandwidth, padding can be added to the exchange frame according to the first time, thereby reserving sufficient time to switch to the corresponding channel in the extended bandwidth for data transmission and reception.

[0138] In some implementations, the extended bandwidth does not overlap with the primary 20MHz or 40MHz channel of the second BSS. Alternatively, it can be understood that the extended bandwidth does not include the primary 20MHz or 40MHz channel of the second BSS. That is, the first AP disables the primary 20MHz or 40MHz channel of the second BSS as extended bandwidth. Therefore, if the second AP is woken up from sleep mode, it can use the primary 20MHz or 40MHz channel of the second BSS for data transmission, which helps reduce the latency of bursty traffic to the second AP. In this case, the second AP can indicate its wake-up window information and the bandwidth information of the second BSS used during the wake-up window in the sent beacon frame. Alternatively, the second AP may not send a beacon frame, and the second AP and STA can use the corresponding BSS bandwidth information for data transmission by default, and outside the wake-up window, only the primary channel can be used for data transmission.

[0139] In some implementations, the first frame may also include information indicating that the first AP is in active mode.

[0140] In some implementations, to prevent a legacy STA (another STA besides the one mentioned above) from using part or all of the second BSS bandwidth for other transmissions, such as P2P (point-to-point), the first AP can include a channel usage element in the first frame. This channel usage element can indicate the intended use of part or all of the second BSS bandwidth included in the extended bandwidth. For example, the usage mode in this field can be set to a first value (e.g., 3) to indicate that part or all of the second BSS included in the extended bandwidth is for other purposes, thus preventing the legacy STA from using that portion of the BSS bandwidth.

[0141] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a channel usage element field provided in an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 7 As shown, the channel usage element field may include element ID, length, usage mode, and one or more channel entry fields.

[0142] The following is an example interpretation of some of the above fields:

[0143] • Usage mode: Used to indicate the corresponding channel purpose. For example, setting it to 1 indicates an off-channel direct link; setting it to 3 indicates a direct link outside the channel.

[0144] This indicates that the channel is unavailable.

[0145] Channel entry: Each channel entry includes two subfields: operation category and channel number. Each channel entry indicates a specific channel. S620, the first AP sends the first frame. Correspondingly, the STA receives the first frame from the first AP.

[0146] The first frame can be either a beacon frame or a probe response frame. When the first frame is a beacon frame, it can be sent via broadcast. When the first frame is a probe response frame, it can be sent via broadcast, multicast, or unicast. Before proceeding to step S610, the first AP can also receive probe request frames sent by the STA, and the probe response frame can specifically be a probe response frame in response to the probe request frame.

[0147] S630, STA analyzes the first frame.

[0148] In such Figure 6In the described communication method, during the AP discovery process, the first AP sends a first frame indicating the use of extended bandwidth for communication with the first AP, thereby allowing the first AP to dynamically and flexibly use large bandwidth for transmission and improve data transmission efficiency.

[0149] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. Wherein, in... Figure 6 Before the communication method shown is implemented, the first AP and the second AP can negotiate to determine, for example... Figure 6 The extended bandwidth and first window described in [the document]. For example... Figure 8 As shown, the method includes steps S810-S820.

[0150] S810, the first AP sends a second frame to the second AP. Correspondingly, the second AP receives the second frame from the first AP. The second frame is used to request the use of the extended bandwidth function for communication. Here, "extended bandwidth function" can also be replaced with "extended bandwidth mode," "extended bandwidth scenario," etc., depending on the actual situation.

[0151] In some implementations, the second frame is also used to request the use of the first bandwidth and / or to use the second window for extended bandwidth communication. Specifically, the first AP can request the use of the first bandwidth as extended bandwidth or initiate negotiation to use the first bandwidth as extended bandwidth, and / or the second window can be used to use the extended bandwidth.

[0152] Alternatively, the first AP can request the use of the first bandwidth as extended bandwidth from the second AP based on the reported information from one or more STAs, and / or use the second window for using the extended bandwidth. When the second frame is used to request the use of the first bandwidth, the first bandwidth can be indicated by at least one of the following: channel width, channel center frequency band, disabled sub-channel bitmap, or transmit power information. When the second frame is used to request the use of the second window, the second window can be indicated by at least one of the following: start time, duration, adjacent window time interval, or total number of windows.

[0153] In some implementations, the second frame also includes the timestamp information of the first AP, so that after receiving the timestamp information, the second AP can synchronize or align its windows with the first AP based on the timestamp information.

[0154] S820, the first AP receives a third frame sent from the second AP. Correspondingly, the second AP sends a third frame to the first AP. The third frame is used to indicate acceptance of the first AP's use of extended bandwidth for communication or to respond to a negotiation request to use the first bandwidth as extended bandwidth.

[0155] In some implementations, the third frame is also used to indicate that the first AP is accepting communication using the first bandwidth and / or using the second window for extended bandwidth functionality. In this case, in a subsequent first frame sent by the first AP, the extended bandwidth indicated by the first information can be the first bandwidth, and the first window indicated by the second information can be the second window.

[0156] In some implementations, the third frame is also used to instruct the first AP to use the second bandwidth and / or the third window for extended bandwidth communication. In some cases, the second bandwidth and / or the third window can be directly indicated by the second AP after determining it based on its own circumstances. In this case, in the first frame subsequently sent by the first AP, the extended bandwidth indicated by the first information can be the second bandwidth, and the first window indicated by the second information can be the third window. In some cases, the second bandwidth and / or the third window can be indirectly determined by the second AP by carrying the second AP's power-saving mode information in the third frame. For example, the power-saving mode information may include the bandwidth information of the second BSS and / or the sleep window information of the second BSS. The first AP determines, based on this power-saving mode information, to use part or all of the bandwidth of the second BSS as extended bandwidth, and / or to use the extended bandwidth using a first window that does not overlap with the second AP's sleep window.

[0157] In some implementations, the third frame also includes the timestamp information of the second AP, so that after receiving the timestamp information, the first AP can synchronize or align its windows with the second AP based on the timestamp information.

[0158] In some implementations, the third frame also includes at least one of the following information from the second AP: channel interference information, traffic load information, or information corresponding to the power-saving mode. The channel interference information can be obtained through testing during communication by the second AP. Therefore, after receiving the third frame, the first AP can further select a suitable channel in the extended bandwidth for data transmission based on the above information.

[0159] The second and third frames can be protected common action frames. For example, the second frame can be a cooperation request frame, and the third frame can be a cooperation response frame. The first AP and the second AP can discover each other's presence by scanning beacon frames or probing response frames over the air interface, and then negotiate wirelessly. Alternatively, the second and third frames can be wired frames, meaning the first AP and the second AP can negotiate via a wired connection, for example, if the first AP and the second AP belong to the same extended service set (ESS).

[0160] In such Figure 8In the described communication method, the first AP and the second AP first negotiate, so that the first AP can dynamically and securely use part or all of the second AP's bandwidth as extended bandwidth in a controlled environment.

[0161] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. Wherein, in... Figure 6 After the communication method shown is implemented, the STA can associate with the first AP after receiving the first frame. For example... Figure 9 As shown, the method includes step S910.

[0162] S910, the STA sends a request frame to the first AP. Correspondingly, the first AP receives the request frame from the STA. The request frame is used to request association with the first AP, and includes fourth information indicating whether the STA supports communication using extended bandwidth. Thus, when the first AP associates with the STA, it can be determined whether the STA supports communication using extended bandwidth.

[0163] In some implementations, the request frame also includes fifth information, which indicates a second time for switching from the first BSS bandwidth to the extended bandwidth. Specifically, the fifth information refers to the second time the STA switches from the first BSS bandwidth to the extended bandwidth. This second time can be understood as the time taken to complete the bandwidth switch. This second time can be determined by the STA based on its own capabilities. Therefore, when the first AP and STA exchange frames on the extended bandwidth, they can add padding to the exchange frame based on the first time, thus reserving sufficient time to switch to the corresponding channel in the extended bandwidth for data transmission and reception.

[0164] In some implementations, such as Figure 9 The method also includes step S920. In S920, the STA sends a sixth message to the first AP. Correspondingly, the first AP receives the sixth message sent by the STA. The sixth message is used to instruct the STA to enable the function of using extended bandwidth for communication. Thus, only after the first AP determines that the STA has enabled the function of using extended bandwidth can the first AP and the STA use extended bandwidth for data transmission within the first window, ensuring that both the first AP and the STA switch to extended bandwidth within the first window, thereby achieving high-bandwidth communication.

[0165] In some implementations, after the first AP receives the request frame sent by the STA, the first AP can send a control frame to the STA to interact. For example... Figure 9 As shown in (a), the communication method may further include steps S931-S941.

[0166] S931, the first AP sends a control frame to the STA on the first channel. The control frame is used to establish a handshake between the first AP and the STA on the first channel. The first channel can be each idle 20MHz sub-channel in the extended bandwidth.

[0167] In some implementations, the control frame includes channel information corresponding to the extended bandwidth. In some implementations, the control frame includes padding, which may be determined based on a first time and / or a second time.

[0168] S941, the first AP receives a response frame from the STA on the first channel.

[0169] Therefore, after the first AP, acting as the initiator of a transmission opportunity (TXOP), interacts with the STA via control frames, the first AP can transmit data with the STA on the first channel. This control frame can be an initial control frame (ICF), and the response frame can be an initial control response frame (ICR).

[0170] In some implementations, after the first AP receives the request frame sent by the STA, the STA can send a control frame to the first AP to interact. For example... Figure 9 As shown in (b), the communication method may further include steps S932-S942.

[0171] S932, the first AP receives a control frame from the STA on the first channel. The control frame is used to establish a handshake between the first AP and the STA on the first channel, which is each idle 20MHz sub-channel on the extended bandwidth.

[0172] In some implementations, the control frame includes channel information corresponding to the extended bandwidth. In some implementations, the control frame includes padding, which may be determined based on a first time and / or a second time.

[0173] S942, the first AP sends a response frame to the STA on the first channel.

[0174] Therefore, after the STA, as the initiator of the transmission opportunity, interacts with the AP via a control frame, the first AP can transmit data with the STA on the first channel. This control frame can be an initial control frame (ICF), and the response frame can be an initial control response frame (ICR).

[0175] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 6 As shown, the method includes steps S1010-S1020.

[0176] S1010, the third AP generates the fourth frame, which includes the seventh information, which is used to indicate that the second AP is in power saving mode.

[0177] In this scenario, the third AP and the second AP are the same device, meaning the second AP itself sends beacon frames or probe response frames. Alternatively, the third AP and the second AP are different APs. For example, the third AP and the second AP belong to the same Energy Saving Mode (ESS), and the third AP obtains the second AP's power saving mode information via a wired connection. Another example is that the third AP and the second AP belong to the same AP MLD, and the third AP obtains the second AP's power saving mode information through its internal controller.

[0178] In some implementations, the fourth frame also includes eighth information, which indicates the bandwidth information of the second BSS. In some implementations, the fourth frame also includes ninth information, which indicates the sleep or wake-up window of the second AP.

[0179] In some implementations, the fourth frame also includes tenth information, which instructs the second AP to use the primary channel for communication during the sleep window. Therefore, if the second AP is awakened from sleep mode, it can use the primary channel of the second BSS for data transmission, which helps reduce latency for bursty traffic from the second AP.

[0180] S1020, the third AP sends the fourth frame.

[0181] The fourth frame can be either a beacon frame or a probe response frame. When the fourth frame is a beacon frame, it can be sent via broadcast. When the fourth frame is a probe response frame, it can be sent via broadcast, multicast, or unicast. Before proceeding to step S1010, the third AP can also receive probe request frames sent by the STA, and the probe response frame can specifically be a probe response frame in response to the probe request frame. The fourth frame can be sent to the STA.

[0182] In such Figure 10 In the method shown, during the AP discovery process, the second AP itself or other APs can send a fourth frame indicating that they are allowed to use part or all of the second BSS bandwidth as extended bandwidth. This allows other APs to dynamically and flexibly use large bandwidth for transmission, thereby improving data transmission efficiency.

[0183] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an extended bandwidth provided in an embodiment of this application. In such... Figure 11In the illustrated case, the bandwidths of the first BSS and the second BSS are adjacent in the frequency domain. However, the bandwidths of the first BSS may not be adjacent to those of the second BSS; this application does not impose any restrictions on this. Furthermore, a portion of the sub-channels within the bandwidths of the first BSS and / or the second BSS may be punctured, depending on the specific circumstances.

[0184] like Figure 11 As shown in (a), the bandwidth of the first BSS can be 80MHz, which includes four 20MHz sub-channels. The bandwidth of the second BSS can also be 80MHz, which includes four 20MHz sub-channels. In this case, the extended bandwidth includes the bandwidth of the first BSS and the entire bandwidth of the second BSS.

[0185] like Figure 11 As shown in (b), the bandwidth of the first BSS can be 160MHz, which includes eight 20MHz sub-channels. The bandwidth of the second BSS can also be 160MHz, which includes eight 20MHz sub-channels. In this case, the extended bandwidth includes the bandwidth of the first BSS and the entire bandwidth of the second BSS.

[0186] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of a first window provided in an embodiment of this application. The first window can refer to a window that uses extended bandwidth for communication with a first AP. In the above embodiment, the first window and the wake-up window of the second AP do not overlap in the time domain. The first window may partially overlap with the sleep window of the second AP, or the first window may completely overlap with the sleep window of the second AP (i.e., strictly aligned). Figure 11 The image shows a specific example of strict alignment.

[0187] It should be understood that the term "BSS bandwidth" as used in this application can also be replaced with "Bandwidth corresponding to the BSS," "Channel bandwidth of the BSS," "Maximum bandwidth of the BSS," "Maximum channel bandwidth of the BSS," "Channel corresponding to the BSS," etc., depending on the actual situation. Similarly, the term "extended bandwidth" as used in this application can also be replaced with "extended channel." It should be understood that the term "channel" as used in this application can also specifically refer to "primary channel," "secondary channel," "sub-channel," etc., depending on the actual situation.

[0188] It should be understood that this application does not limit the specific relationship between the "first AP" and the "second AP". For example, the first AP and the second AP can be neighboring APs. Or, the first AP and the second AP can belong to the same AP MLD. Or, the first AP and the second AP belong to the same ESS. Or, the first AP and the second AP belong to the same AP MLD. Furthermore, the first AP and the second AP may not belong to the same ESS. Similarly, this application does not limit how the first AP and the second AP interact. For example, the first AP and the second AP can interact through an over-the-air wireless frame, a wired connection, or an internal controller.

[0189] In this application, the term "AP," such as "first AP" and "second AP," can also be understood as the conventional "first AP" and "second AP"; or "first AP" and "second AP" can belong to the same AP MLD; or "first AP" is "first AP MLD" and "second AP" is "second AP MLD." Furthermore, the term "STA," such as "first STA" and "second STA," can also be understood as the conventional "first STA" and "second STA"; or "first STA" and "second STA" can belong to the same non-AP MLD; "first STA" is "first non-AP MLD" and "second STA" is "second non-AP MLD."

[0190] It should be understood that Figure 6 to Figure 10 The various communication methods shown can be combined, and the resulting embodiments should still be within the protection scope of this application.

[0191] The above, combined with Figure 6 to Figure 10 The communication method provided in the embodiments of this application is described in detail below. Figure 13 to Figure 15 The communication device provided in this application is described in detail. It should be understood that the description of the device embodiments corresponds to the description of the method embodiments. Therefore, for details not described in detail, please refer to the method embodiments above; for brevity, some details are omitted.

[0192] Figure 13 This is a schematic structural block diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. The communication device 1300 may include a transceiver module 1310 and a processing module 1320.

[0193] like Figure 13 The communication device 1300 shown can be a first communication device, which can be a first access point (AP) or a component (e.g., a chip or circuit) within the first AP. Alternatively, as... Figure 13 The communication device 1300 shown can be a second communication device, which can be the STA in the above embodiments or a component (e.g., a chip or circuit) in the STA. Or, as...Figure 13 The communication device 1300 shown can be a third communication device, which can be a third AP or a component (e.g., a chip or circuit) within the third AP. Alternatively, as... Figure 13 The communication device 1300 shown can be a fourth communication device, which can be a third AP or a component (e.g., a chip or circuit) in the third AP.

[0194] Below, we will discuss the specific cases where the communication device is one of the three types of devices mentioned above. Figure 11 The apparatus shown will be described.

[0195] First communication device

[0196] The processing module 1320 is used to generate a first frame. The first frame includes first information, which is used to indicate extended bandwidth. The extended bandwidth is used for communication of the first AP. The extended bandwidth includes the bandwidth of the first BSS and part or all of the bandwidth of the second BSS. The first AP corresponds to the first BSS and the second AP corresponds to the second BSS.

[0197] In some implementations, the first information includes at least one of the following corresponding to the extended bandwidth: channel width, channel center frequency band, disabled sub-channel bitmap, or transmit power information. This information specifically indicates the extended bandwidth.

[0198] In some implementations, the first frame also includes second information, which is used to indicate the first window, which is used for communication using extended bandwidth, wherein the first window does not overlap with the wake-up window of the second AP.

[0199] In some implementations, the first frame also includes third information, which indicates the first time of switching from the bandwidth of the first BSS to the extended bandwidth.

[0200] In some implementations, the extended bandwidth does not overlap with the main channel of the second BSS.

[0201] The transceiver module 1310 is used to send the first frame.

[0202] In another embodiment, the transceiver module 1310 is further configured to send a second frame to the second AP, the second frame being a request to use the extended bandwidth function for communication. The transceiver module 1310 is also configured to receive a third frame sent from the second AP, the third frame being an indication to accept the first AP's use of the extended bandwidth function for communication. In some implementations, the second frame is further configured to request to use the first bandwidth and / or the second window for extended bandwidth function communication. In some implementations, the third frame is further configured to indicate to accept the first AP's use of the first bandwidth and / or the second window for extended bandwidth function communication. In some implementations, the third frame is further configured to indicate to the first AP's use of the second bandwidth and / or the third window for extended bandwidth function communication.

[0203] In another embodiment, the transceiver module 1310 is further configured to receive a request frame from the STA. The request frame requests association with the first AP and includes fourth information indicating whether the STA supports communication using extended bandwidth. In some implementations, the request frame also includes fifth information indicating a second time for switching from the first BSS bandwidth to extended bandwidth.

[0204] In addition, the transceiver module 1310 can also be used to receive a sixth message sent by the STA. The sixth message is used to instruct the STA to enable the function of communicating using extended bandwidth.

[0205] Furthermore, the transceiver module 1310 can also be used to send control frames to the STA on the first channel. These control frames are used to establish data transmission between the first AP and the STA on the first channel. The first channel is a channel within the extended bandwidth. The transceiver module 1310 is also used to receive response frames from the STA on the first channel.

[0206] In addition, the transceiver module 1310 can also be used to receive control frames from the STA on the first channel, which is used to establish data transmission between the first AP and the STA on the first channel, which is a channel on extended bandwidth. The transceiver module 1310 is also used to send response frames to the STA on the first channel.

[0207] Second communication device

[0208] The transceiver module 1310 is used to receive the first frame from the first AP.

[0209] Processing module 1320 is used to parse the first frame. The details of the first frame have been described above and will not be repeated here.

[0210] In another embodiment, transceiver module 1310 is also configured to send a request frame. The request frame requests association with the first AP and includes fourth information indicating whether the STA supports communication using extended bandwidth. In some implementations, the request frame further includes fifth information indicating a second time for switching from the first BSS bandwidth to extended bandwidth.

[0211] In addition, the transceiver module 1310 is also used to send a sixth message to the first AP. The sixth message is used to instruct the STA to enable the function of communicating using extended bandwidth.

[0212] In addition, the transceiver module 1310 can also be used to receive control frames from the first AP on the first channel. The control frames are used to establish data transmission between the first AP and the STA on the first channel, which is a channel on extended bandwidth. The transceiver module 1310 is also used to send response frames to the first AP on the first channel.

[0213] Furthermore, the transceiver module 1310 can also be used to send control frames to the first AP on the first channel. These control frames are used to establish data transmission between the first AP and the STA on the first channel. The first channel is a channel within the extended bandwidth. The transceiver module 1310 is also used to receive response frames from the first AP on the first channel.

[0214] Third communication device

[0215] Transceiver module 1310 is configured to receive a second frame from a first AP, the second frame being a request to use the extended bandwidth function for communication. Transceiver module 1310 is also configured to send a third frame to the first AP, the third frame being an indication to accept the first AP's use of the extended bandwidth function for communication. In some implementations, the second frame is further used to request the use of the first bandwidth and / or the use of a second window for extended bandwidth function communication. In some implementations, the third frame is further used to indicate to accept the first AP's use of the first bandwidth and / or the use of a second window for extended bandwidth function communication. In some implementations, the third frame is further used to indicate to the first AP's use of the second bandwidth and / or a third window for extended bandwidth function communication.

[0216] Processing module 1320 is used to parse the second frame and also to generate the third frame.

[0217] Fourth communication device

[0218] Processing module 1320 is used to generate a fourth frame, which includes seventh information indicating that the second AP is in power-saving mode. In some implementations, the fourth frame also includes tenth information, which instructs the second AP to use the main channel for communication during the sleep window.

[0219] The transceiver module 1310 is used to send the fourth frame.

[0220] It should be understood that Figure 13 The communication device shown is represented in the form of functional modules. The term "module" here may refer to application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), electronic circuits, processors (e.g., shared processors, proprietary processors, or group processors) and memories for executing one or more software or firmware programs, combined logic circuits, and / or other suitable components that support the described functions.

[0221] Figure 13 The communication device shown implements the functions of the corresponding steps performed by the device in the above method. This function can be implemented in hardware or by hardware executing corresponding software. The hardware or software includes one or more modules corresponding to the above functions; for example, the transmitting module can be replaced by a transmitter, the receiving module can be replaced by a receiver, and other modules, such as processing modules, can be replaced by a processor, each performing the transmitting and receiving operations and related processing operations in each method embodiment.

[0222] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of another communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 14 The communication device 1400 shown includes a processor 1401, which is used to execute computer programs or instructions stored in a memory 1402, or to read data / signaling stored in the memory 1402, to perform the methods in the above method embodiments. Optionally, there may be one or more processors 1401.

[0223] Optionally, such as Figure 14 As shown, the communication device 1400 also includes a memory 1402 for storing computer programs or instructions and / or data. The memory 1402 may be integrated with the processor 1401 or may be disposed separately. Optionally, there may be one or more memories 1402.

[0224] Optionally, such as Figure 14 As shown, the communication device 1400 also includes a transceiver 1403, which is used for receiving and / or transmitting signals. For example, the processor 1401 is used to control the transceiver 1403 to receive and / or transmit signals.

[0225] The communication device 1400 is used to implement the operations performed by the first AP, the second AP, the third AP, and the STA in the various method embodiments described above.

[0226] It should be understood that the processor mentioned in the embodiments of this application can be a central processing unit (CPU), or other general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, discrete hardware components, etc. A general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0227] It should also be understood that the memory mentioned in the embodiments of this application can be volatile memory and / or non-volatile memory. Non-volatile memory can be read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or flash memory. Volatile memory can be random access memory (RAM). For example, RAM can be used as an external cache. By way of example and not limitation, RAM includes the following forms: static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), double data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDR SDRAM), enhanced synchronous dynamic random access memory (ESDRAM), synchronous linked dynamic random access memory (SLDRAM), and direct rambus RAM (DR RAM).

[0228] It should be noted that when the processor is a general-purpose processor, DSP, ASIC, FPGA, or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic device, or discrete hardware component, the memory (storage module) can be integrated into the processor.

[0229] It should also be noted that the memory described herein is intended to include, but is not limited to, these and any other suitable types of memory.

[0230] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of a chip system provided in an embodiment of this application. The chip system 1500 (or may also be called a processing system) includes logic circuitry 1501 and an input / output interface 1502.

[0231] The logic circuit 1501 can be a processing circuit in the chip system 1500. The logic circuit 1501 can be coupled to a memory unit, calling instructions from the memory unit, enabling the chip system 1500 to implement the methods and functions of the embodiments of this application. The input / output interface 1502 can be an input / output circuit in the chip system 1500, outputting processed information from the chip system 1500, or inputting data or signaling information to be processed into the chip system 1500 for processing.

[0232] As one approach, the chip system 1500 is used to implement the operations performed by the first AP, second AP, third AP, and STA in the various method embodiments described above.

[0233] For example, logic circuit 1501 is used to implement the related operations processed by the first AP, second AP, third AP, and STA in the above method embodiment; input / output interface 1502 is used to implement the sending and / or receiving related operations performed by the first AP, second AP, third AP, and STA in the above method embodiment.

[0234] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing computer instructions for implementing the methods executed by the first AP, second AP, third AP, and STA in the above-described method embodiments.

[0235] For example, when the computer program is executed by the computer, it enables the computer to implement the methods executed by the first AP, second AP, third AP, and STA in the various embodiments of the above methods.

[0236] This application also provides a computer program product comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, implement the methods performed by the first AP, second AP, third AP, and STA in the above-described method embodiments.

[0237] This application also provides a communication system, including the aforementioned first AP, second AP, third AP, and STA. The communication system may further include one or more STAs.

[0238] The explanations and beneficial effects of the relevant contents in any of the devices provided above can be found in the corresponding method embodiments provided above, and will not be repeated here.

[0239] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed apparatus and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the mutual coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces, and the indirect coupling or communication connection of apparatus or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0240] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved entirely or partially through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented using software, it can be implemented entirely or partially in the form of a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer instructions. When the computer program instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, all or part of the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this application are generated. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. For example, the computer can be a personal computer, a server, or a network device, etc. The computer instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer instructions can be transmitted from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via wired (e.g., coaxial cable, fiber optic, digital subscriber line (DSL)) or wireless (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium that a computer can access or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available media can be magnetic media (e.g., floppy disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes), optical media (e.g., DVDs), or semiconductor media (e.g., solid-state disks, SSDs). For example, the aforementioned available media include, but are not limited to, USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks, and other media capable of storing program code.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, include: The first access point (AP) generates a first frame, which includes first information. The first information is used to indicate extended bandwidth. The extended bandwidth is used for communication by the first AP. The extended bandwidth includes the bandwidth of the first basic service set (BSS) and part or all of the bandwidth of the second BSS. The first AP corresponds to the first BSS, and the second AP corresponds to the second BSS. The first AP sends the first frame.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The second AP is in power-saving mode.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, in: The first frame also includes second information, which indicates a first window for communication using the extended bandwidth, wherein the first window does not overlap with the wake-up window of the second AP.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, Before the first AP generates the first frame, the method further includes: The first AP sends a second frame to the second AP, the second frame being used to request the use of the extended bandwidth function for communication; The first AP receives a third frame sent from the second AP, the third frame indicating acceptance of the first AP using the extended bandwidth function for communication.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The second frame is also used to request communication for the extended bandwidth function using the first bandwidth and / or using the second window.

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, in: The third frame is also used to indicate acceptance of communication by the first AP using the first bandwidth and / or using the second window for the extended bandwidth function; or The third frame is also used to instruct the first AP to use the second bandwidth and / or the third window for communication of the extended bandwidth function.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The extended bandwidth does not overlap with the main channel of the second BSS.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The first frame also includes third information, which indicates the first time of switching from the bandwidth of the first BSS to the extended bandwidth.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The first frame is either a beacon frame or a probe response frame.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, After the first AP sends the first frame, the method further includes: The first AP receives a request frame from a station STA, the request frame being used to request association with the first AP, the request frame including fourth information, the fourth information being used to indicate whether the STA supports communication using the extended bandwidth.

11. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that, The request frame also includes fifth information, which indicates a second time for switching from the first BSS bandwidth to the extended bandwidth.

12. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that, Also includes: The first AP receives a sixth message from the STA, the sixth message being used to instruct the STA to enable the function of using extended bandwidth for communication.

13. A communication method, characterized in that, include: The STA receives a first frame from the first AP. The first frame includes first information, which is used to indicate extended bandwidth. The extended bandwidth is used for communication of the first AP. The extended bandwidth includes the bandwidth of the first Basic Service Set (BSS) and part or all of the bandwidth of the second BSS. The first AP corresponds to the first BSS, and the second AP corresponds to the second BSS. The STA parses the first frame.

14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The second AP is in power-saving mode.

15. The method according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that, in: The first frame also includes second information, which indicates a first window for communication using the extended bandwidth, wherein the first window does not overlap with the wake-up window of the second AP.

16. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 15, characterized in that, The extended bandwidth does not overlap with the main channel of the second BSS.

17. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 16, characterized in that, The first frame also includes third information, which indicates the first time of switching from the bandwidth of the first BSS to the extended bandwidth.

18. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 17, characterized in that, The first frame is either a beacon frame or a probe response frame.

19. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 18, characterized in that, After the STA receives the first frame from the first AP, the method further includes: The STA sends a request frame to the first AP. The request frame is used to request association with the first AP. The request frame includes fourth information, which is used to indicate whether the STA supports communication using the extended bandwidth.

20. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that, The request frame also includes fifth information, which indicates a second time for switching from the first BSS bandwidth to the extended bandwidth.

21. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that, Also includes: The STA sends a sixth message to the first AP, which instructs the STA to enable the function of using extended bandwidth for communication.

22. A communication method, characterized in that, include: The second AP receives a second frame sent from the first AP, the second frame being used to request the use of the extended bandwidth function for communication; The first AP sends a third frame to the second AP, the third frame being used to indicate acceptance of the first AP using the extended bandwidth function for communication.

23. The method according to claim 22, characterized in that, The second frame is also used to request communication for the extended bandwidth function using the first bandwidth and / or using the second window.

24. The method according to claim 22 or 23, characterized in that, in: The third frame is also used to indicate acceptance of communication by the first AP using the first bandwidth and / or using the second window for the extended bandwidth function; or The third frame is also used to instruct the first AP to use the second bandwidth and / or the third window for communication of the extended bandwidth function.

25. A communication device, characterized in that, include: The module or unit is used to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 12, or includes a module or unit for performing the method according to any one of claims 13 to 21, or includes a module or unit for performing the method according to any one of claims 22 to 24.

26. A communication device, characterized in that, The device includes a memory and one or more processors, the memory being used to store a computer program; the one or more processors being used to execute the computer program in the memory to cause the device to perform the method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12, or to cause the device to perform the method as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 21, or to cause the device to perform the method as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 24.

27. A computer program product, characterized in that, The computer program product includes instructions for performing the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 24.

28. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, include: The computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program; when the computer program is run on a computer, it causes the computer to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 24.

29. A chip, characterized in that, The chip is installed in a communication device. The chip includes a processor and a communication interface. The processor reads instructions and runs them through the communication interface, causing the communication device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 24.

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