Multilink data transmission method, device and equipment

Abstract

The invention provides a multi-link data transmission method, device and equipment. The method comprises the following steps: sending a service time period mode management and control instruction through a first link; the service time period mode management and control instruction is used for indicating that the second link is in a dormant state or an awakening state; the second link is a link in an awakening state within a set service time period based on the TWT mechanism. According to the method, the sleep or wake-up state of the second link configured with the TWT mechanism is managed by sending the service time period mode management and control instruction through the first link, the number of times of timed wake-up of the second link according to the negotiation time point in the TWT mechanism can be reduced, the second link does not need to close a TWT session, and the second link can be in the sleep state for a long time, so that the time delay of the second link is reduced. And the effect of saving energy consumption is achieved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communications, and more specifically, to a method, apparatus, and device for multi-link data transmission. Background Technology

[0002] Target Wake Time (TWT) is an energy-saving technology used in wireless networks, particularly widely adopted in the Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) standard. TWT aims to improve network efficiency and extend battery life by coordinating the wake-up and sleep times of access points (APs). This reduces channel contention among non-AP devices (STAs).

[0003] Targeted wake-up time (TWT) technologies typically include Individual TWT (i-TWT), Broadcast TWT (b-TWT), and Restricted TWT (r-TWT). Individual TWT involves the AP negotiating wake-up times individually with different Non-AP STAs. The AP needs to maintain a local service schedule and interact with the corresponding Non-AP STAs within the specified time. i-TWT's wake-up negotiation mode is divided into explicit and implicit negotiation. Implicit negotiation's wake-up period is periodic, suitable for periodic service transmissions. Broadcast TWT is a special TWT operation mode. The AP pre-divides the entire transmission period into multiple different service periods (SP). Within the predefined service period, both the AP and Non-AP STAs wake up to exchange data. Outside of the service period, the AP enters a sleep state to reduce power consumption. b-TWT primarily serves periodic services. Enhanced Target Wake-up Technology (r-TWT) is an enhanced TWT mechanism designed specifically for time-sensitive wireless communication. r-TWT technology slices channel resources according to service time and periodically allocates these time slices to specific time-sensitive services to ensure that only specific time-sensitive services can be transmitted within that time slice.

[0004] Multi-link simultaneous transmission technology refers to the technology of connecting multiple links to transmit data simultaneously. Multiple links can form a larger transmission channel, thus significantly improving the transmission throughput between AP and Non-AP STA. The equipment related to multi-link simultaneous transmission technology is called a Multiple Link Device (MLD). Among them, the AP with multi-link functionality is called a Multi-Link Site Device (AP MLD), and the Non-AP STA with multi-link functionality is called a Multi-Link Terminal Device (Non-AP STA MLD). Multi-link transmission technology includes multi-link synchronous simultaneous transmission (NSTR) mode and multi-link asynchronous simultaneous transmission (STR) mode. Multi-link synchronous simultaneous transmission mode means that multiple links between a multi-link AP and a multi-link Non-AP STA simultaneously send or receive data, and each link needs to ensure that data transmission and reception are synchronized in time. Multi-link asynchronous simultaneous transmission mode means that the multi-link AP and the multi-link Non-AP STA independently compete for access rights on each link and transmit data independently, without needing to align transmission and reception times.

[0005] In a multi-link wireless communication system consisting of multiple-link APs and multiple-link Non-AP STAs, although the auxiliary multi-link AP based on TWT technology enters a sleep state outside of the service period, which has a certain energy-saving effect, if the multiple multi-link Non-AP STAs associated with the auxiliary multi-link AP have periodic services, the auxiliary multi-link AP needs to be woken up and perform uplink and downlink data transmission in each service period. In a multi-link wireless communication system with other transmission links with lower load, using TWT technology to wake up the auxiliary multi-link AP will actually increase the energy consumption of the entire system and will not achieve the energy-saving effect. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This application provides a multi-link data transmission method, apparatus, and device, which eliminates the need for the second link to be woken up periodically according to the negotiated time, thereby achieving energy saving.

[0007] Firstly, a multi-link data transmission method is provided, including:

[0008] Send service time period mode control instructions through the first link;

[0009] The service time period mode control instruction is used to indicate whether the second link is in a dormant or awake state.

[0010] The second link is a link that is in a wake-up state during the service period based on the TWT mechanism.

[0011] Secondly, a multi-link data transmission method is provided, including:

[0012] The service time period mode control instruction sent by the multi-link site equipment is received through the first link;

[0013] The service time period mode control instruction is used to indicate whether the second link is in a dormant or awake state.

[0014] The second link is a link that is in a wake-up state during the service period based on the TWT mechanism.

[0015] Thirdly, a multi-link data transmission device is provided, comprising:

[0016] The sending module is used to send service time period mode control instructions through the first link;

[0017] The service time period mode control instruction is used to indicate whether the second link is in a dormant or awake state.

[0018] The second link is a link that is in a wake-up state during the service period based on the TWT mechanism.

[0019] Fourthly, a multi-link data transmission device is provided, comprising:

[0020] The receiving module is used to receive the service time period mode control instruction sent by the multi-link site device through the first link;

[0021] The service time period mode control instruction is used to indicate whether the second link is in a dormant or awake state.

[0022] The second link is a link that is in a wake-up state during the service period based on the TWT mechanism.

[0023] The second link is the link that should be in a wake-up state during the set service time period.

[0024] Fifthly, a multi-link site device is provided, including a processor and a memory. The memory is used to store a computer program, and the processor is used to call and run the computer program stored in the memory to perform the methods described in the first aspect or its various implementations.

[0025] Sixthly, a multi-link terminal device is provided, including a processor and a memory. The memory is used to store a computer program, and the processor is used to call and run the computer program stored in the memory to perform the methods in the second aspect or its various implementations described above.

[0026] In a seventh aspect, a chip is provided for implementing the methods of any one of the first to second aspects or their respective implementations. Specifically, the chip includes: a processor for calling and running a computer program from a memory, causing a device on which the chip is installed to perform the methods of any one of the first to second aspects or their respective implementations.

[0027] Eighthly, a readable storage medium is provided for storing a computer program that causes a computer to perform the methods of any one of the first to second aspects or their respective implementations.

[0028] A ninth aspect provides a communication device, comprising: a processor and a memory for storing a computer program, the processor for calling and running the computer program stored in the memory to perform the methods of any one of the first to second aspects or their respective implementations.

[0029] In a tenth aspect, a communication system is provided, including a site device and a terminal device, wherein the site device is configured to perform a method in any of the first aspects or implementations thereof, and the terminal device is configured to perform a method in any of the second aspects or implementations thereof.

[0030] The above technical solution manages the sleep or wake-up state of the second link based on the TWT mechanism by sending service time period mode control instructions through the first link. This reduces the number of times the second link is woken up at negotiated time points in the TWT mechanism. The second link does not need to close the TWT session and can remain in a sleep state for a long time, thus saving energy. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a communication system applicable to embodiments of this application.

[0032] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an applicable scenario of the multi-link data transmission method provided in this application embodiment.

[0033] Figure 3 This is one of the interactive schematic diagrams of a multi-link data transmission method provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0034] Figure 4 This is the second interactive schematic diagram of a multi-link data transmission method provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0035] Figure 5 This is the third interactive schematic diagram of a multi-link data transmission method provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0036] Figure 6This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a link indication control frame provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0037] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a beacon frame carrying a service time period mode control instruction, provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0038] Figure 8 This is one of the data interaction diagrams on link1 when the instruction SP remains in a sleep state, as provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0039] Figure 9 This is the second schematic diagram of data interaction on link1 when the instruction SP remains in a sleep state, as provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0040] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of data interaction on link2 when the SP is woken up in advance, as provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0041] Figure 11 This is one of the schematic block diagrams of a multi-link data transmission device provided according to an embodiment of this application.

[0042] Figure 12 This is a second schematic block diagram of a multi-link data transmission device provided according to an embodiment of this application.

[0043] Figure 13 This is a schematic block diagram of a communication device provided according to an embodiment of this application.

[0044] Figure 14 This is a schematic block diagram of a chip provided according to an embodiment of this application.

[0045] Figure 15 This is a schematic block diagram of a communication system provided according to an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0046] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of them. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort regarding the embodiments of this application are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0047] It should be noted that, in this document, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second," etc., used herein are used only to distinguish different objects and not to describe a particular order.

[0048] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of this application, "at least one item" refers to one item or more items, "more items" refers to two items or more, and "at least two items" refers to two items or more. "At least one of the following items" or similar expressions can refer to any combination of these items. For example, at least one item of a, b, or c can mean: a, b, c, "a and b", "a and c", "b and c", or "a and b and c".

[0049] It should be noted that in the embodiments of this application, "and / or" indicates that the connected objects can have three relationships. For example, "A and / or B" can represent three scenarios: only A exists, only B exists, and both A and B exist simultaneously. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following objects have an "or" relationship.

[0050] It should be understood that the "instruction" mentioned in the embodiments of this application can be a direct instruction or an indirect instruction. For example, A instructing B can mean that A directly instructs B, such as B being obtainable through A; or it can mean that A indirectly instructs B, such as A instructing C, where B is obtainable through C, for example, B and C are related.

[0051] The technical solutions provided in this application can be applied to wireless local area network (WLAN) systems, such as WiFi protocols. These WiFi protocols may include, but are not limited to, the 802.11 series protocols, such as 802.11a, 802.11ax, 802.11ac, 802.11b, 802.11be, 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11bn, or next-generation protocols.

[0052] Figure 1A schematic structural diagram of a communication system 100 applicable to embodiments of this application is shown. The communication system 100 may include an Access Point (AP) 110 and a Non-AP STATION (Non-AP STA) 120. The terminal device 120 can access the network through the Access Point 110.

[0053] Access points can support communication or sensing based on WiFi protocols, such as 802.11a, 802.11ax, 802.11ac, 802.11b, 802.11be, 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11bn, or next-generation protocols.

[0054] The site can support communication or sensing based on WiFi protocols, such as 802.11a, 802.11ax, 802.11ac, 802.11b, 802.11be, 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11bn, or next-generation protocols.

[0055] The communication in the communication system 100 can be communication between access points and stations, or communication between stations, or communication between access points.

[0056] An access point acts as a bridge connecting wired and wireless networks. Its main function is to connect various wireless network clients together and then connect the wireless network to the Ethernet.

[0057] Terminal equipment is also called a non-access point site (Non-AP STA), and site equipment is also called an access point or access point site (AP). In a sense, an access point is also a type of site.

[0058] In some scenarios, access points and sites can be devices used in the Internet of Vehicles (IoV), IoT nodes and sensors in the Internet of Things (Non-APIoT), smart cameras, smart remote controls, smart water and electricity meters in smart homes, and sensors in smart cities.

[0059] In some scenarios, the access point can be a terminal device (such as a mobile phone) with a WiFi chip or a network device (such as a router).

[0060] In the embodiments of this application, the site may be a mobile phone, tablet computer, computer, virtual reality (VR) device, augmented reality (AR) device, wireless device in industrial control, set-top box, wireless device in self-driving, vehicle communication device, wireless device in remote medical, wireless device in smart grid, wireless device in transportation safety, wireless device in smart city or smart home, wireless device, wireless communication chip, etc. that support WLAN or WiFi technology.

[0061] It should be understood that Figure 1 Only one access point and two sites are shown in the example. Optionally, the communication system 100 may include multiple access points or other numbers of sites. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0062] Optionally, the communication system 100 may also include other devices, such as network controllers, gateways, and other network entities, which are not limited in this application.

[0063] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, the target wake-up technology and multi-link simultaneous transmission technology related to this application will be described.

[0064] Target Wake Time (TWT) is an energy-saving technology used in wireless networks, particularly in the Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) standard. TWT aims to reduce channel contention between non-AP devices by coordinating the wake-up and sleep times of site devices, thereby improving network efficiency and extending battery life.

[0065] Targeted wake-up time (TWT) technologies typically include Individual TWT (i-TWT), Broadcast TWT (b-TWT), and Restricted TWT (r-TWT). Individual TWT involves the AP negotiating wake-up times individually with different Non-AP STAs. The AP needs to maintain a local service schedule and interact with the corresponding Non-AP STAs within the specified time. i-TWT's wake-up negotiation modes are divided into explicit and implicit negotiation. Implicit negotiation has a periodic wake-up period, suitable for periodic service transmissions, while explicit negotiation has a non-periodic wake-up period, waking up according to the wake-up time of the service schedule. Broadcast Target Wake-up (b-TWT) is a special TWT operation mode. The AP pre-divides the entire transmission period into multiple service periods (SP). Within each predefined service period, both the AP and non-AP STAs wake up to exchange data. Outside of the service period, the AP enters a sleep state to reduce power consumption. b-TWT primarily serves periodic services. Enhanced Target Wake-up (r-TWT) is an enhanced TWT mechanism designed specifically for time-sensitive wireless communication. r-TWT slices channel resources according to service time and periodically allocates these time slices to specific time-sensitive services, ensuring that only those services can be transmitted within their designated time slices.

[0066] Multi-link simultaneous transmission technology refers to the technology of connecting multiple links to transmit data simultaneously. Multiple links can form a larger transmission channel, thus significantly improving the transmission throughput between AP and Non-AP STA. For example, the Wi-Fi 7 standard supports AP and the same Non-AP STA to simultaneously establish connections on channels in the 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and 6GHz frequency bands, which is equivalent to bundling the three frequency bands together to form a larger transmission channel. AP and Non-AP STA can transmit data simultaneously on multiple connected channels, thus significantly improving the transmission throughput of AP and Non-AP STA. The equipment related to multi-link simultaneous transmission technology is called a Multiple Link Device (MLD). Among them, the site equipment AP with multi-link function is called a multi-link AP (AP MLD), and the terminal equipment Non-AP STA with multi-link function is called a multi-link Non-AP STA (Non-AP STA MLD). Multi-link transmission technology includes multi-link synchronous transmission (NSTR) mode and multi-link asynchronous transmission (STR) mode. Multi-link synchronous transmission mode refers to multiple links between multi-link APs and multi-link Non-AP STAs simultaneously sending or receiving data, and each link needs to ensure that data transmission and reception are synchronized in time. Multi-link asynchronous transmission mode refers to multi-link APs and multi-link Non-AP STAs independently competing for access rights on each link and transmitting data independently, without needing to align transmission and reception times with each other.

[0067] The technical solutions of this application are described in detail below through specific embodiments. The above-mentioned related technologies are optional solutions and can be combined with the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application in any way, all of which fall within the protection scope of the embodiments of this application.

[0068] Combination Figure 2 , Figure 2This is a schematic diagram illustrating the applicable scenario of the multi-link data transmission method of this application. It is understood that the technical solution of this application is applied to a multi-link transmission system, including multiple APs and multiple Non-AP STAs. Each AP can connect to a Non-AP STA through a corresponding link for data interaction. For example, AP1 communicates and interacts with Non-AP STA 1 through link1, and APi communicates and interacts with Non-AP STA i through linki. Both APs and Non-AP STAs are in STR mode to avoid simultaneous transmission between multiple links, which would prevent the implementation of the relevant content in the technical solution of this application. Among the multiple links, at least one first link is active, and at least one second link is configured with a TWT mechanism. Among the multiple first links, as long as there is a low-load first link, it is considered a low-load first link, and the target data interaction is performed through the low-load first link. The indication instructions sent by the AP MLD (including service time period mode control instructions and link indication control frames) can indicate the status and interaction of one second link, or the status and exchange of multiple second links. Of course, it can also include other links besides the first and second links, such as links that transmit specific data, without any restrictions here.

[0069] Figure 3 This is an interactive schematic diagram of the multi-link data transmission method of this application. The method 200 is applied to a multi-link site device and includes at least the following:

[0070] S200, a service time period mode control instruction is sent through the first link. The service time period mode control instruction is used to indicate whether the second link is in a dormant state or a wake-up state. The second link is a link that is in a wake-up state within a set service time period based on the TWT mechanism.

[0071] The multi-link data transmission method provided in this application manages the sleep or wake-up state of the second link configured with the TWT mechanism by sending a service time period mode control command through the first link. This reduces the number of times the second link is woken up at a timed interval according to the negotiated time point in the TWT mechanism, allowing the second link to remain in a sleep state for a long time, thus achieving the effect of saving energy.

[0072] Understandably, the service time period mode control command here has a higher priority than the TWT mechanism. Sending the service time period mode control command through the first link implies that the first link is in an active state.

[0073] In some embodiments, combined with Figure 4S200 includes: S210, when it is determined that the first link is a low-load link, sending a first service time period mode control instruction through the first link to instruct the second link to also be in a dormant state during a set service time period.

[0074] The multi-link data transmission method provided in this application sends a first service time period mode control command on a low-load first link, so that the second link is always in a dormant state inside and outside the set service time period and will not be repeatedly woken up. The second link can remain in a dormant state for a long time, thereby achieving better energy saving effect.

[0075] It is understandable that when the first link is determined to be a low-load link, it implies that the state of the first link is active; the second link is configured with a TWT mechanism, that is, the second link should be in a dormant state outside the set service period and be woken up to transmit target data within the set service period; when the AP MLD does not send the first service period mode control instruction, the second link will be repeatedly woken up within the set service period.

[0076] It should be noted that the first service time period mode control command is sent to each Non-AP STA i in the Non-AP STA MLD. Simultaneously, the first service time period mode control command is also transmitted to each APi to inform the AP and Non-AP STA corresponding to the second link not to wake up during the set service time period. This ensures that the second link remains dormant during the set service time period, allowing data to be transmitted through the first link. Alternatively, only the AP and Non-APSTA corresponding to the second link can be notified, as long as the second link is also in a sleep state during the set service time period; this is not a limitation here.

[0077] In some embodiments, after step S210, combined with Figure 5 The multi-link data transmission method of this application also includes:

[0078] S220, a first link indication control frame is sent to the multi-link terminal device Non-AP STA MLD through the first link. The first link indication control frame is used to instruct the target terminal device in the multi-link terminal device to transmit target data through the first link within a set service time period.

[0079] S230 receives target data uploaded by the target terminal device through the first link.

[0080] Among them, the target terminal device corresponding to the second link of the aforementioned target terminal device, the target data is the data that should have been transmitted on the second link during the set service time period.

[0081] Based on the embodiment in step S210 above, which is used to indicate that the second link is always in a dormant state, the first link indication control frame in this embodiment is used to indicate how the target data that should be transmitted on the second link during the set service time period should be transmitted. That is, it indicates that the target data is transmitted through the low-load first link during the set service time period, so as to achieve the effect of both saving energy of the second link and making full use of the resources of the first link to transmit the target data.

[0082] In some embodiments, step S120 includes: broadcasting the first link indication control frame to the multi-link terminal device via the first link.

[0083] The first link indication control frame is broadcast directly to each multi-link terminal device, so that each multi-link terminal device can perform relevant content according to the first link indication control frame. For example, the target terminal device transmits target data to the multi-link site device through the first link.

[0084] It is understandable that the first link indication control frame can also be transmitted to the target terminal device in other ways. For example, the multi-link site device can first send the first link indication control frame to the first terminal device corresponding to the first link, and then the first terminal device can send the first link indication control frame to the target terminal device.

[0085] In some embodiments, step S220 includes: when it is determined that the target terminal device has the target data to be transmitted within the set service time period, sending the first link indication control frame.

[0086] Furthermore, when it is determined that the target terminal device has the target data to be transmitted within the current set service time period, a first link indication control frame is sent to the target terminal device through the first link before the current set service time period.

[0087] It is understandable that multiple service time periods can be set. Before each set service time period, a first link indication control frame can be sent to the multi-link terminal device (Non-AP STA MLD) via the first link to instruct the target terminal device to know which link to transmit the target data through in each set service time period. Preferably, it can be determined first whether there is target data to be transmitted within the set service time period. If there is target data to be transmitted, then the first link indication control frame is sent; if there is no target data to be transmitted, then the first link indication control frame is not sent, thereby avoiding unnecessary resource expenditure.

[0088] Furthermore, before each set service period, it can be determined whether there is target data to be transmitted. If the target data to be transmitted exists within the current set service period, the first link indication control frame is sent; otherwise, the first link indication control frame is not sent. This further reduces resource consumption while ensuring that the target data is effectively transmitted within each set service period.

[0089] It is worth noting that the low-load first link may change over time. For example, during the first set service period, if the i-th link in the first link is a low-load link, the target terminal device will transmit target data through the i-th link during the first set service period. However, during the second set service period, if the j-th link in the first link is a low-load link, the target terminal device will transmit target data through the j-th link during the second set service period. Therefore, sending a first link indication control frame before each set service period in which target data needs to be transmitted can ensure that the target data is always transmitted through the low-load link and make full use of link resources.

[0090] In some embodiments, after step S220, the method further includes:

[0091] The system receives first response data uploaded by the first terminal device after receiving the first link indication control frame via the first link, wherein the first terminal device is the terminal device corresponding to the first link.

[0092] The first downlink data is transmitted through the first link.

[0093] The first terminal device receives the second reply data uploaded after receiving the first downlink data via the first link.

[0094] This embodiment describes the process where, after sending a first link indication control frame on the first link, subsequent data interaction can continue normally on the first link. Specifically, upon receiving the first link indication control frame, the first terminal device in the multi-link terminal equipment, if there is exchange data, uploads first uplink data through the first link; if there is no exchange data, it uploads a null frame (QoS Null) through the first link to inform the multi-link site devices that the first link indication control frame has been received. Subsequently, if the first site device in the multi-link site equipment has downlink data, it sends first downlink data through the first link. The first terminal device, upon receiving the first downlink data, replies with an ACK to inform the first site device that the downlink data has been received, thus confirming that data interaction on the first link is normal.

[0095] It is worth noting that the target data can be transmitted within the first uplink and first downlink data. That is, when the first terminal device determines that there is interactive data to be sent on the multi-link terminal device side, it can transmit the first uplink data, including or excluding the target data, to the multi-link site device via the first link. The first uplink data can be transmitted within a set service time period or at other time periods. Simultaneously, when the first site device determines that there is interactive data to be sent on the multi-link site device side, it can transmit data, including or excluding data that should originally be sent via the second link, to the multi-link terminal device on the first link. The first downlink data can be transmitted within a set service time period or at other time periods.

[0096] In some embodiments, step S200 further includes: when it is determined that the first link is a high-load link, sending a second service time period mode control instruction through the first link to instruct the second link to wake up according to the set service time period.

[0097] The premise of energy saving is to ensure that the target data can be transmitted correctly and in a timely manner. When the first link is a high-load link, if the target data that should be transmitted on the second link is still transmitted through the first link, the target data will not be transmitted correctly or will be delayed due to the high load of the first link. Therefore, when it is determined that the first link is a high-load link, a second service time period mode control instruction is sent through the first link to instruct the target data to still be transmitted according to the original TWT negotiated time to ensure that the target data can be transmitted correctly and in a timely manner.

[0098] In some embodiments, when the first link is a high-load link and it is determined that there is a target link in the second link that transmits bursty service data, a second link indication control frame is sent through the first link. The second link indication control frame is used to instruct the target link to wake up before the set service time period to transmit the bursty service data. The bursty service data transmitted by the target link during the early wake-up time period is received.

[0099] To accommodate bursts of data transmission, when the first link is under high load, it indicates that the first link is no longer suitable for transmitting such bursts. The second link, which only transmits data during a set service period, also cannot meet the demand for bursty data transmission. Therefore, the second link needs to be woken up in advance to transmit this burst of data. To address this, the first link sends a second link indication control frame to instruct the second link to wake up before the set service period, thus adapting to the needs of bursty data transmission. When there are multiple second links, only the second link transmitting the bursty data (i.e., the target link) needs to be woken up in advance, thus avoiding the energy consumption caused by waking up all second links in advance.

[0100] It is understandable that the aforementioned early wake-up period may or may not overlap with the set service period, depending on the burst of service data to be transmitted. During the process of instructing the target link to wake up during the early wake-up period via the second link indication control frame, the target link is normally woken up during the set service period and exchanges data within that period. In other words, the early wake-up period does not affect the wake-up of the target link during the set service period. The early wake-up period ends after the burst of service data has been transmitted to avoid unnecessary energy consumption on the target link.

[0101] It is worth noting that when the first link is a low-load link, bursty service data is transmitted through the first link.

[0102] In some embodiments, after sending the second link indication control frame via the first link, the process includes: receiving acknowledgment wake-up data from the second terminal device corresponding to the target link after receiving the second link indication control frame. The acknowledgment wake-up data can be a PS-Poll. The multi-link site device confirms whether the second terminal device has received the second link indication control frame by receiving the acknowledgment wake-up data sent by the second terminal device, so as to resend the frame if the second terminal device does not receive it, thereby ensuring that bursty link data can be transmitted in a timely manner.

[0103] In some embodiments, after receiving the acknowledgment wake-up data replied by the second terminal device corresponding to the target link after receiving the second link indication control frame, the process includes: sending second downlink data through the target link; and receiving third reply data uploaded by the first terminal device after receiving the second downlink data through the target link.

[0104] In this embodiment, after sending a second link indication control frame on the target link, the target link can transmit not only burst service data but also second downlink data sent by multi-link site devices, and receive third reply data from the first terminal device. The third reply data can be an ACK, thereby verifying that the target link can normally transmit burst service data. Furthermore, transmitting second downlink data through the target link can reduce the transmission pressure on the heavily loaded first link to some extent. In addition, it is understood that normal data interaction can also occur on the first link while data interaction is taking place on the target link.

[0105] In some embodiments, the link indication control frame is implemented by adding or modifying the trigger frame, and the link indication control frame includes a first link indication control frame, a second link indication control frame, and a third link indication control frame.

[0106] There are two ways to implement link indication control frames. The first is to add a new trigger frame, the format of which is as follows: Figure 6 As shown, the frame includes Frame Control (2 bytes), Duration (2 bytes), Receiver Address (RA, 6 bytes), Transmitter Address (TA, 6 bytes), Common Info (8 or more bytes), User Info List (random variable bytes), and Error Check (FCS, 4 bytes). The Common Info includes Trigger Dependent CommonInfo (random variable bytes), Trigger Type, and Reserved fields. The second method modifies an existing trigger frame by modifying the Common Info fields. The format of this modified trigger frame is essentially the same as that of a newly added trigger frame, except for the Trigger Type. It is worth noting that the aforementioned Trigger Dependent CommonInfo includes the necessary features of the Link Indication Control frame in this embodiment.

[0107] In some embodiments, the link indication control frame includes a destination link identifier, a source link identifier, and status indication information. The destination link identifier indicates which link is actually used to transmit the target data, the source link identifier indicates the link originally used to transmit the target data, and the status indication information indicates the status of the source link during the transmission of the target data. Optionally, the link indication control frame further includes a reserved field for subsequent extended use.

[0108] Depend on Figure 6 As shown in Table 1 below, the destination link identifier, source link identifier, status indication information, and reserved field included in the link indication control frame can be implemented by setting the common information field in the trigger frame. That is, the common information field includes the destination link identifier, source link identifier, status indication information (also called wake-up indication, both refer to the same content), and reserved field. The destination link identifier occupies 4 bits, the source link identifier occupies 4 bits, the status indication information occupies 2 bits, and the reserved field occupies 6 bits.

[0109] In some embodiments, the status indication information includes at least an early wake-up state, and also includes at least one of a wake-up state, a sleep state, and a reserved state. Specifically, the wake-up (00) in the status indication information indicates that the source link is in a wake-up state, the sleep (01) indicates that the source link is in a sleep state, the early wake-up (10) indicates that the source link is in an early wake-up state, and the reserved (11) is used for extending the source link status.

[0110]

[0111] Table 1

[0112] In Table 1, the destination link identifier and source link identifier can be set from 1 to 14. It should be understood that the values ​​here are just examples. In actual use, the values ​​of the destination link identifier and source link identifier can be set according to actual needs.

[0113] In some embodiments, the wake-up state in the status indication information is represented by 00, the sleep state by 01, the early wake-up state by 10, and the hold state by 11. It is understood that the above representation is only one implementation method, and in actual use, it can be adjusted according to actual needs.

[0114] In some embodiments, the first link indication control frame, the second link indication control frame, and the third link indication control frame are implemented by modifying the target link identifier and the status indication information. For example, the first link indication control frame can modify the destination link identifier to 1 (first link identifier) ​​and modify the status indication information to 01; the second link indication control frame can modify the destination link identifier to 2 (target link identifier) ​​and modify the status indication information to 10; and the third link indication control frame can modify the destination link identifier to 3 (second link identifier) ​​and modify the status indication information to 00.

[0115] Based on the frame format and specific content of the aforementioned link indication control frame, it can be understood that in some embodiments, the first link indication control frame can also be used to indicate that the second link is in a dormant state during a set service period. Preferably, the first link indication control frame is further used to indicate that the second link is in a dormant state during the current set service period.

[0116] Based on the first service time period mode control command instructing the second link to be in a dormant state, the first link indication control frame again instructs the second link to be in a dormant state during each set service time period / the current set service time period. This dual indication ensures that the second link is in a dormant state within the set service time period, thereby ensuring the energy-saving state of the second link. It can be understood that the first link indication control frame may only instruct the second link to be in a dormant state during the most recent current set service time period; that is, the first link indication control frame performs only short-term second link status control, while the first service time period mode control command performs long-term second link status control.

[0117] In some embodiments, the method 200 further includes: when the first link is a high-load link and it is determined that there is no link in the second link that transmits non-burst service data, sending a third link indication control frame through the first link, wherein the third link indication control frame is used to instruct the second link to wake up during a set service time period to transmit the target data uploaded by the target terminal device.

[0118] At this point, the function of the third link indication control frame is merely to enhance the control instructions for the second service time period mode, ensuring that the second link is woken up according to the service time period negotiated by TWT. Preferably, the third link indication control frame may also only indicate that the most recent currently set service time period should be woken up according to TWT negotiation, i.e., to perform short-term status control on the second link.

[0119] It is understood that the function of the first link indication control frame and the third link indication control frame in indicating that the second link is in a sleep or wake-up state can be disabled. That is, the absence of the function of the first link indication control frame and the third link indication control frame in indicating the state of the second link does not affect the implementation of the solution of the embodiment of this application.

[0120] In some embodiments, service time period mode control instructions are sent in beacon frames.

[0121] Optionally, combined Figure 7 As shown, the service period mode control command can be implemented through the control field in the beacon frame. Specifically, the Service Period PM Mode field can be added to the control field of the beacon frame. The first service period mode control command corresponds to Service Period PM Mode = 1, and the second service period mode control command corresponds to Service Period PM Mode = 0.

[0122] The beacon frame includes an element ID field (1 byte), a length field (1 byte), a control field (2 bytes), and TWT parameter information (random variable bytes). Specifically, a Service Period PM Mode field (1 bit) is added to the 8th bit of the control field to implement service period mode control instructions.

[0123] In some embodiments, beacon frames are periodically broadcast through the first link. That is, a first service time period mode control instruction or a second service time period mode control instruction may be periodically broadcast to instruct the second link to be in a sleep state or to remain in a TWT wake-up state.

[0124] In some embodiments, determining that the first link is a low-load link in step S210 specifically includes: calculating the throughput of the first link during a preset time period before sending the first service time period mode control instruction or the second service time period mode control instruction. If the throughput is less than or equal to a preset threshold, the first link is determined to be a low-load link. If the throughput is greater than the preset threshold, the first link is determined to be a high-load link.

[0125] Throughput can usually reflect the transmission capacity of a link. By statistically analyzing the throughput of the first link over a period of time before sending the service time period mode control command, it is possible to quickly determine whether the first link is a low-load link or a high-load link.

[0126] It is worth noting that if there are multiple first links, the first link is determined to be a low-load link as long as there is a link in the first link with a throughput less than or equal to the preset threshold. The first link is considered to be a high-load link only if the throughput of all links in the first link is greater than the preset threshold, that is, there is no link in the first link that can transmit the target data.

[0127] The following detailed explanation uses a multi-link transmission system with link1 in an active state and link2 configured with the TWT mechanism as an example:

[0128] Combination Figure 8 , Figure 9 , Figure 8 , Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating data interaction on link1 when instructing the SP (Service Period) to remain in a dormant state.

[0129] In step S10, when link1 is determined to be a low-load link, AP1 sends a B-frame (beacon) through link1. The B-frame carries a Service Period PM Mode = 1 field, which is the first service period mode control instruction, instructing SP1 (Service Period 1, the first set service period) and SP2 (Service Period 2, the second set service period) on link2 to be in a sleep state. Since link2 is based on the TWT mechanism, link2 should originally be in a wake-up state within SP1 and SP2, and in a sleep state outside of SP1 and SP2, achieving data exchange by constantly switching the state of link2. However, by sending a B-frame carrying the Service Period PM Mode = 1 field, link2 can be kept in a sleep state for a long time, achieving the energy-saving effect of link2.

[0130] In step S11, AP1 broadcasts a C-frame (cross-link wake up indication) to the Non-AP STA MLD via link1. In this C-frame, the Destination Link ID is the ID of link1, the Source Link ID is the ID of link2, and the Wake Up Indication value is 01. The C-frame instructs Non-AP STA2 to transmit the target data originally sent via SP1 and SP2 of link2 via link1 within SP1 and SP2, while keeping SP1 and SP2 of link2 in a dormant state. In some embodiments, the C-frame may also instruct Non-AP STA2 to transmit the target data originally sent via SP1 of link2 via link1, only instructing SP1 of link2 to remain in a dormant state, thus ensuring that the target data of Non-AP STA2 can still be transmitted normally even when link2 is in a dormant state.

[0131] In step S12, after Non-AP STA1 receives the C frame, if interactive data exists, it uploads the first uplink data (UpLink, abbreviated as UL) via link1. Figure 9 In the UL (Upper Component), after AP1 receives the UL, it replies with an ACK to Non-AP STA1 to inform Non-AP STA1 that it has confirmed the receipt of the UL. The UL here may carry the target data.

[0132] Step S13: If no interactive data exists, upload a Q frame (QoS Null, empty frame, corresponding to...) via link1. Figure 8 (Q frame in the middle) to inform AP1 that it has received the C frame.

[0133] In step S14, if AP1 has interactive data, it sends DL (Downlink data) to Non-AP STA1 via link1; otherwise, it does not send it. This DL may also contain data that should have been transmitted in SP1 and SP2 of the second link. AP MLD can decide that downlink data for all its affiliated APs should be transmitted on link1.

[0134] In step S15, after receiving the DL, Non-AP STA1 sends an ACK to AP1 via link1 to inform AP1 that it has received the downlink data.

[0135] Specifically, before AP1 broadcasts a C-frame to the Non-AP STA MLD via link1, it first checks whether the target data to be transmitted exists in SP1 and SP2 on link2. If the target data to be transmitted exists in SP1 on link2, the C-frame is broadcast to the Non-AP STA MLD via link1 before SP1; otherwise, no C-frame is broadcast. Similarly, if the target data to be transmitted exists in SP2 on link2, the C-frame is broadcast to the Non-AP STA MLD via link1 before SP2; otherwise, no C-frame is broadcast, thus avoiding unnecessary C-frame broadcasts. Whether or not a C-frame is broadcast does not affect the normal interaction of uplink and downlink data on the first link.

[0136] Step S16: Periodically send B frames to the Non-AP STA MLD via link1.

[0137] It should be noted that the step numbers above do not constitute a restriction on the execution order. Steps S12-S13 and steps S14 and S15 can be executed simultaneously or sequentially.

[0138] Combination Figure 10 , Figure 10 This diagram illustrates the data interaction on link2 when an SP is woken up early.

[0139] In step S20, when link1 is determined to be under high load, AP1 sends a B frame through link1. The B frame carries a ServicePeriod PM Mode=0 field, which is the second service period mode control instruction, indicating that SP1 and SP2 on link2 are in the TWT mechanism wake-up state. If link1 is under high load, it means that link1 is not suitable for transmitting additional data. Therefore, link2 maintains the original TWT mechanism wake-up mode, and Non-AP STA2 transmits the target data in the SP1 and SP2 phases of link2.

[0140] In step S21, when it is determined that link1 is under high load and there is bursty service data on link2, since link1 is under high load and is not suitable for transmitting bursty service data, AP1 sends a C frame to Non-AP STA MLD through link1. At this time, the Destination Link ID in the C frame is the ID of link2, the Source Link ID is the ID of link2, and the Wake Up Indication value is 10, indicating that Non-AP STA2 will transmit the bursty service data within the early wake-up time period of link2, so as to achieve effective transmission of bursty service data.

[0141] In step S22, after receiving the C-frame, Non-AP STA 2 sends back a P-frame (PS-Poll) to inform AP2 that the C-frame has been received, and transmits the burst service data to AP2 during the early wake-up period. Simultaneously, after receiving the P-frame, AP2 distributes the burst service data to Non-AP STA 2. It is understood that the burst service data can be transmitted within uplink or downlink data.

[0142] In step S23, when the set service period arrives, link2 is activated. Non-AP STA2 transmits target data to AP2 or receives target data sent by AP2 during the set service period via link2, thus achieving effective transmission of target data. It can be understood that the target data can be transmitted within uplink or downlink data.

[0143] It is understood that the aforementioned early wake-up time period may or may not overlap with the set service time period. The early wake-up time period does not affect the wake-up of the set service time period on link2. For example, if the early wake-up time period has ended before SP1 arrives, then SP1 is re-wake up; if the early wake-up time period has not ended when SP1 arrives, then SP1 remains awake. The order of the above steps does not constitute a limitation on the execution order.

[0144] This application also provides a multi-link data transmission method, applied to a multi-link terminal device, the method including the following:

[0145] The first link receives a service time period mode control instruction sent by the multi-link site device; wherein, the service time period mode control instruction is used to indicate whether the second link is in a dormant state or a wake-up state; the second link is a link that is in a wake-up state within a set service time period based on the TWT mechanism.

[0146] The multi-link data transmission method provided in this application manages the sleep or wake-up state of the second link based on the TWT mechanism by sending a service time period mode control instruction through the first link. This reduces the number of times the second link is woken up at a timed interval according to the negotiated time point in the TWT mechanism, allowing the second link to remain in a sleep state for a long time, thus saving energy.

[0147] In some embodiments, when the first link is determined to be a low-load link by the multi-link site device AP MLD, a first service time period mode control instruction sent by the multi-link site device is received through the first link to indicate that the second link is also in a dormant state during a set service time period.

[0148] The multi-link data transmission method provided in this application sends a first service time period mode control command on a low-load first link, so that the second link is always in a dormant state inside and outside the set service time period. The second link can remain in a dormant state for a long time, thereby achieving better energy saving effect.

[0149] In some embodiments, after receiving a first service time period mode control instruction sent by the multi-link site device via the first link, indicating that the second link is also in a dormant state during a set service time period, the method further includes:

[0150] Receive the first link indication control frame sent by the multi-link site device through the first link;

[0151] According to the first link instruction control frame, the target data is sent to the multi-link site device through the first link within a set service time period;

[0152] The target data is the data that should have been transmitted on the second link during the specified service time period.

[0153] In some embodiments, receiving the first link indication control frame sent by the multi-link site device via the first link includes:

[0154] The first link receives the first link indication control frame broadcast by the multi-link site device.

[0155] In some embodiments, receiving the first link indication control frame sent by the multi-link site device via the first link includes:

[0156] When it is determined that the target terminal device has the target data to be transmitted within the set service time period, the device receives a first link indication control frame sent by the multi-link site device through the first link.

[0157] In some embodiments, when it is determined that the target terminal device has the target data to be transmitted within the set service time period, receiving a first link indication control frame sent by a multi-link site device through a first link includes:

[0158] When it is determined that the target terminal device has the target data to be transmitted within the current set service time period, the first link indication control frame sent by the multi-link site device is received through the first link before the current set service time period.

[0159] In some embodiments, after receiving the first link indication control frame sent by the multi-link site device via the first link, the process includes:

[0160] First response data is sent to the first site device via the first link, where the first site device is the site device corresponding to the first link;

[0161] The first downlink data sent by the first site device through the first link after receiving the first reply data;

[0162] The second reply data, indicating receipt of the first downlink data, is sent to the first site device via the first link.

[0163] In some embodiments, the first response data includes one of QoS Null and first uplink data, and the second response data includes ACK.

[0164] In some embodiments, receiving the service time period mode control instruction sent by the multi-link site device through the first link includes: when the multi-link site device determines that the first link is a high-load link, receiving the second service time period mode control instruction sent by the multi-link site device through the first link, which instructs the second link to be woken up according to the set service time period.

[0165] In some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0166] When the first link is a high-load link and it is determined that there is a target link in the second link that transmits burst service data, the second link indication control frame sent by the multi-link station is received through the first link. The second link indication control frame is used to instruct the target link to wake up before the set service time period to transmit the burst service data.

[0167] The sudden service data is transmitted through the target link during the advance wake-up period.

[0168] In some embodiments, after receiving a second link indication control frame sent by the multi-link station via the first link, the method includes: replying with acknowledgment wake-up data to the multi-link station device.

[0169] In some embodiments, the confirmation wake-up data includes PS-Poll.

[0170] In some embodiments, after replying with acknowledgment wake-up data to the multi-link site device, the process includes:

[0171] Receive the second downlink data sent by the multi-link site equipment through the target link;

[0172] The third reply data, received from the second downlink data, is uploaded to the multi-link site device via the target link.

[0173] In some embodiments, the link indication control frame is implemented by adding or modifying a trigger frame, and the link indication control frame includes a first link indication control frame and a second link indication control frame.

[0174] In some embodiments, the link indication control frame includes a destination link identifier, a source link identifier, status indication information, and a reserved field; the destination link identifier is used to indicate which link is actually used to transmit the target data, the source link identifier is used to indicate the link that originally transmitted the target data, the status indication information is used to indicate the status of the source link when transmitting the target data, and the reserved field is used for subsequent expansion.

[0175] In some embodiments, the status indication information includes at least an early wake-up state, and also includes at least one of a wake-up state, a sleep state, and a hold state.

[0176] In some embodiments, the first link indication control frame, the second link indication control frame, and the third link indication control frame are implemented by modifying the value of the target link identifier and the value of the status indication information.

[0177] In some embodiments, the wake-up state in the status indication information is represented by 00, the sleep state by 01, the early wake-up state by 10, and the hold state by 11.

[0178] In some embodiments, the service time period mode control instruction is carried in a beacon frame and sent.

[0179] In some embodiments, the beacon frames are broadcast periodically via the first link.

[0180] In some embodiments, the first service period mode control instruction and the second service period mode control instruction are implemented by adding a Service Period PM Mode field to the beacon frame.

[0181] In some embodiments, the first service period mode control instruction corresponds to Service Period PMMode=1, and the second service period mode control instruction corresponds to Service Period PM Mode=0.

[0182] In some embodiments, determining that the first link is a low-load link through the multi-link site device (AP MLD) includes:

[0183] The multi-link site device calculates the throughput of the first link during a preset time period before sending the first service time period mode control instruction or the second service time period mode control instruction.

[0184] When the throughput is less than or equal to a preset threshold, the first link is determined to be a low-load link;

[0185] When the throughput is greater than the preset threshold, the first link is determined to be a high-load link.

[0186] The multi-link data transmission method described above for multi-link terminal devices can achieve all the technical effects of the method described above for multi-link site devices. To avoid repetition, it will not be described again here.

[0187] The above text combined Figures 3 to 10 The method embodiments of this application are described in detail below, in conjunction with... Figures 11 to 15 The present application describes the device embodiments in detail. It should be understood that the device embodiments correspond to the method embodiments, and similar descriptions can be referred to the method embodiments.

[0188] Figure 11 A schematic block diagram of a multi-link data transmission apparatus 300 according to an embodiment of this application is shown. The wireless communication apparatus 300 can be a site device, or a component within a site device, such as a chip, circuit, or module.

[0189] like Figure 10 As shown, the multi-link data transmission device 300 includes:

[0190] The sending module 310 is used to send a service time period mode control instruction through the first link; wherein, the service time period mode control instruction is used to indicate that the second link is in a dormant state or a wake-up state, and the second link is a link that is in a wake-up state within a set service time period based on the TWT mechanism.

[0191] It should be understood that the apparatus 300 according to the embodiments of this application may correspond to the multi-link site device in the method embodiments of this application, and the above and other operations and / or functions of each unit in the apparatus 300 are respectively for implementing Figures 3 to 9 The corresponding processes of the site equipment in the embodiments will not be described in detail here for the sake of brevity.

[0192] Figure 12 This is a schematic block diagram of another multi-link data transmission device 400 according to an embodiment of this application. The multi-link data transmission device 400 can be a terminal device, or a component within the terminal device, such as a chip, circuit, or module. Figure 11 The multi-link data transmission device 400 includes:

[0193] The receiving module 410 is used to receive the service time period mode control instruction sent by the multi-link site device through the first link; wherein, the service time period mode control instruction is used to indicate that the second link is in a dormant state or a wake-up state, and the second link is a link that is in a wake-up state based on the TWT mechanism within a set service time period.

[0194] It should be understood that the apparatus 400 according to the embodiments of this application may correspond to the multi-link terminal device in the method embodiments of this application, and the above and other operations and / or functions of each unit in the apparatus 400 are respectively for implementing Figures 3 to 9 The corresponding processes of the site devices in the method embodiment shown are not described in detail here for the sake of brevity.

[0195] This application provides a multi-link site device, characterized in that it includes: a processor and a memory, the memory being used to store a computer program, and the processor being used to call and run the computer program stored in the memory to implement the method applied to the multi-link site device in this application embodiment.

[0196] This application provides a multi-link terminal device, characterized in that it includes: a processor and a memory, the memory being used to store computer programs, and the processor being used to call and run the computer programs stored in the memory to implement the method applied to the multi-link terminal device in this application embodiment.

[0197] Figure 13 This is a schematic structural diagram of a communication device 500 provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 10 The communication device 500 shown includes a processor 510, which can call and run computer programs from memory to implement the methods in the embodiments of this application.

[0198] Optionally, such as Figure 13As shown, the communication device 500 may further include a memory 520. The processor 510 can call and run a computer program from the memory 520 to implement the methods in the embodiments of this application. For example, when the communication device 500 is a station device, the processor 510 can call and run a computer program from the memory 520 to implement the various steps of the method embodiments executed by the station device, achieving the same technical effect. When the communication device 500 is a terminal device, the processor 510 can call and run a computer program from the memory 520 to implement the various steps of the method embodiments executed by the terminal device, achieving the same technical effect.

[0199] Alternatively, the memory 520 may be a separate device independent of the processor 510, or it may be integrated into the processor 510.

[0200] Optionally, such as Figure 12 As shown, the communication device 500 may also include a transceiver 530, and the processor 510 may control the transceiver 530 to communicate with other devices. Specifically, it may send information or data to other devices or receive information or data sent by other devices.

[0201] Optionally, transceiver 530 may include a transmitter and a receiver. Transceiver 530 may further include antennas, and the number of antennas may be one or more.

[0202] Figure 14 This is a schematic structural diagram of the chip according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 14 The chip 600 shown includes a processor 610, which can call and run computer programs from memory to implement the methods in the embodiments of this application.

[0203] Optionally, such as Figure 4 As shown, chip 600 may further include memory 620. Processor 810 can retrieve and run computer programs from memory 620 to implement the methods described in this embodiment.

[0204] Alternatively, the memory 620 may be a separate device independent of the processor 610, or it may be integrated into the processor 810.

[0205] Optionally, the chip 600 may also include an input interface 630. The processor 610 can control the input interface 630 to communicate with other devices or chips, for example, to acquire information or data sent by other devices or chips.

[0206] Optionally, the chip 600 may also include an output interface 640. The processor 610 can control the output interface 640 to communicate with other devices or chips, for example, to output information or data to other devices or chips.

[0207] Optionally, the chip can be applied to the site device in the embodiments of this application, and the chip can implement the corresponding processes implemented by the site device in the various methods of the embodiments of this application. For the sake of brevity, it will not be described in detail here.

[0208] Optionally, the chip can be applied to the terminal device in the embodiments of this application, and the chip can implement the corresponding processes implemented by the terminal device in the various methods of the embodiments of this application. For the sake of brevity, it will not be described in detail here.

[0209] It should be understood that the chip mentioned in the embodiments of this application may also be referred to as a system-on-a-chip, system chip, chip system, or system-on-a-chip, etc.

[0210] Figure 15 This is a schematic block diagram of a communication system 700 provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 15 As shown, the communication system 700 includes a site device 710 and a terminal device 720.

[0211] The site device 710 can be used to implement the corresponding functions implemented by the multi-link site device in the above method, and the terminal device 720 can be used to implement the corresponding functions implemented by the multi-link terminal device in the above method. For the sake of brevity, these will not be elaborated here.

[0212] It should be understood that the processor in the embodiments of this application may be an integrated circuit chip with signal processing capabilities. In implementation, the steps of the above method embodiments can be completed by integrated logic circuits in the processor's hardware or by instructions in software form. The processor described above may be a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, or discrete hardware components. It can implement or execute the methods, steps, and logic block diagrams disclosed in the embodiments of this application. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor or any conventional processor. The steps of the methods disclosed in the embodiments of this application can be directly embodied in the execution of a hardware decoding processor, or executed by a combination of hardware and software modules in the decoding processor. The software modules may reside in random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable memory, registers, or other mature storage media in the art. The storage medium is located in the memory, and the processor reads the information in the memory and, in conjunction with its hardware, completes the steps of the above method.

[0213] It is understood that the memory in the embodiments of this application can be volatile memory or non-volatile memory, or may include both volatile and non-volatile memory. The 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. The volatile memory can be random access memory (RAM), which is used as an external cache. By way of example, but not limitation, many forms of RAM are available, such as Static Random Access Memory (SRAM), Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM), Synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), Double Data Rate SDRAM (DDR SDRAM), Enhanced Synchronous DRAM (ESDRAM), Synchlink DRAM (SLDRAM), and Direct Rambus RAM (DRRAM). It should be noted that the memory used in the systems and methods described herein is intended to include, but is not limited to, these and any other suitable types of memory.

[0214] It should be understood that the above-described memory is exemplary and not a limiting description. For example, the memory in the embodiments of this application may also be static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), double data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDRSDRAM), enhanced synchronous dynamic random access memory (ESDRAM), synchronous link dynamic random access memory (SLDRAM), and direct memory bus RAM (DR RAM), etc. That is to say, the memory in the embodiments of this application is intended to include, but is not limited to, these and any other suitable types of memory.

[0215] This application also provides a readable storage medium storing a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the various processes of the above method embodiments.

[0216] Optionally, the readable storage medium can be applied to the access point device in the embodiments of this application, and the computer program causes the processor to execute the corresponding process implemented by the access point device in the method embodiments of this application. To avoid repetition, it will not be described again here.

[0217] Optionally, the readable storage medium can be used in the embodiments of this application, and the computer program causes the processor to execute the corresponding process implemented by the site device in the method embodiments of this application. To avoid repetition, it will not be described again here.

[0218] This application also provides a computer program product, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the various processes of the above-described method embodiments.

[0219] Optionally, the computer program product can be applied to the access point device in the embodiments of this application, and the computer program causes the processor to execute the corresponding process implemented by the access point device in the method embodiments of this application. To avoid repetition, it will not be described again here.

[0220] Optionally, the computer program product can be applied to the site device in the embodiments of this application, and the computer program causes the processor to execute the corresponding process implemented by the site device in the method embodiments of this application. To avoid repetition, it will not be described again here.

[0221] This application also provides a computer program. When executed by a processor, this computer program implements the various processes of the above-described method embodiments.

[0222] Optionally, the computer program can be applied to the access point device in the embodiments of this application. The computer program causes the processor to execute the corresponding process implemented by the access point device in the method embodiments of this application. To avoid repetition, it will not be described again here.

[0223] Optionally, the computer program can be applied to the site device in the embodiments of this application. The computer program causes the processor to execute the corresponding process implemented by the site device in the method embodiments of this application. To avoid repetition, it will not be described again here.

[0224] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0225] Those skilled in the art will understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0226] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, apparatuses, 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 coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection between apparatuses or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0227] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0228] In addition, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit.

[0229] If the aforementioned functions are implemented as software functional units and sold or used as independent products, they can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or a portion of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0230] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A multi-link data transmission method, characterized in that, include: Send service time period mode control instructions through the first link; The service time period mode control instruction is used to indicate whether the second link is in a dormant or awake state. The second link is a link that is in a wake-up state during a set service period based on the TWT mechanism.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of sending a service time period mode control command via the first link to indicate whether the second link is in a dormant or awake state includes: When the first link is determined to be a low-load link, a first service time period mode control instruction is sent through the first link to instruct the second link to also be in a dormant state during the set service time period.

3. The multi-link data transmission method according to claim 2, characterized in that, After sending a first service time period mode control instruction via the first link to instruct the second link to also be in a dormant state during the set service time period, the method further includes: A first link indication control frame is sent to the multi-link terminal device Non-AP MLD via the first link. The first link indication control frame is used to instruct the target terminal device in the multi-link terminal device to transmit target data through the first link during the set service time period. Receive target data uploaded by the target terminal device through the first link; Wherein, the target terminal device is the terminal device corresponding to the second link, and the target data is the data that should have been transmitted on the second link during the set service time period.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, Sending a first link indication control frame to the multi-link terminal device (Non-AP MLD) via the first link includes: The first link indication control frame is broadcast to the multi-link terminal device via the first link.

5. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, Sending a first link indication control frame to the multi-link terminal device (Non-AP MLD) via the first link includes: When it is determined that the target terminal device has the target data to be transmitted within the set service time period, the first link indication control frame is sent.

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, When it is determined that the target terminal device has the target data to be transmitted within the set service time period, sending the first link indication control frame includes: When it is determined that the target terminal device has the target data to be transmitted within the current set service time period, a first link indication control frame is sent to the target terminal device through the first link before the current set service time period.

7. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, After sending the first link indication control frame to the multi-link terminal device (Non-AP MLD) via the first link, the process includes: The system receives first response data uploaded by the first terminal device after receiving the first link indication control frame via the first link, wherein the first terminal device is the terminal device corresponding to the first link; The first downlink data is transmitted through the first link; The first terminal device receives the second reply data uploaded after receiving the first downlink data via the first link.

8. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first response data includes either QoS Null or first uplink data, and the second response data includes ACK.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, The step of sending service time period mode control instructions via the first link includes: When the first link is determined to be a high-load link, a second service time period mode control instruction is sent through the first link to instruct the second link to be woken up according to the set service time period.

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The method further includes: When the first link is a high-load link and it is determined that there is a target link in the second link that transmits burst service data, a second link indication control frame is sent through the first link. The second link indication control frame is used to instruct the target link to wake up before the set service time period to transmit the burst service data. Receive the burst service data transmitted by the target link during the early wake-up period.

11. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that, After sending the second link indication control frame via the first link, the process includes: The system receives confirmation wake-up data from the second terminal device corresponding to the target link after receiving the second link indication control frame.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, After receiving the acknowledgment wake-up data from the second terminal device corresponding to the target link after receiving the second link indication control frame, the process includes: The second downlink data is transmitted through the target link; The target link receives the third reply data uploaded by the first terminal device after receiving the second downlink data.

13. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that, The link indication control frame is implemented by adding or modifying the trigger frame, and the link indication control frame includes a first link indication control frame and a second link indication control frame.

14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The link indication control frame includes a destination link identifier, a source link identifier, and status indication information; The destination link identifier is used to indicate which link is actually used to transmit the target data, the source link identifier is used to indicate the link that originally transmitted the target data, and the status indication information is used to indicate the status of the source link when transmitting the target data.

15. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that, The status indication information includes at least an early wake-up state, and also includes at least one of a wake-up state, a sleep state, and a hold state.

16. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that, The first link indication control frame and the second link indication control frame are implemented by modifying the value of the target link identifier and the value of the status indication information.

17. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The status indication information is represented by 00 for wake-up status, 01 for sleep status, 10 for early wake-up status, and 11 for hold status.

18. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The service time period mode control command is carried in the beacon frame and sent.

19. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that, The beacon frames are broadcast periodically via the first link.

20. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that, The first service period mode control instruction and the second service period mode control instruction are implemented by adding a Service Period PM Mode field to the beacon frame.

21. The method according to claim 20, characterized in that, The first service period mode control instruction corresponds to Service Period PM Mode = 1, and the second service period mode control instruction corresponds to Service Period PM Mode = 0.

22. A multi-link data transmission method, characterized in that, include: The service time period mode control instruction sent by the multi-link site equipment is received through the first link; The service time period mode control instruction is used to indicate whether the second link is in a dormant or awake state. The second link is a link that is in a wake-up state during a set service period based on the TWT mechanism.

23. The method according to claim 22, characterized in that, The step of receiving a service time period mode control instruction sent by the multi-link site device through the first link, indicating whether the second link configured with the TWT mechanism is in a dormant or awake state, includes: When the first link is determined to be a low-load link by the multi-link site device AP MLD, the first link receives a first service time period mode control instruction sent by the multi-link site device to indicate that the second link is also in a dormant state during a set service time period.

24. The method according to claim 23, characterized in that, After receiving the first service time period mode control instruction sent by the multi-link site device via the first link, which instructs the second link to also be in a dormant state during a set service time period, the method further includes: Receive the first link indication control frame sent by the multi-link site device through the first link; According to the first link instruction control frame, the target data is sent to the multi-link site device through the first link within a set service time period; The target data is the data that should have been transmitted on the second link during the specified service time period.

25. The method according to claim 24, characterized in that, The step of receiving the first link indication control frame sent by the multi-link site device through the first link includes: The first link receives the first link indication control frame broadcast by the multi-link site device.

26. The method according to claim 24, characterized in that, The step of receiving the first link indication control frame sent by the multi-link site device through the first link includes: When it is determined that the target terminal device has the target data to be transmitted within the set service time period, the device receives a first link indication control frame sent by the multi-link site device through the first link.

27. The method according to claim 26, characterized in that, When it is determined that the target terminal device has the target data to be transmitted within the set service time period, receiving a first link indication control frame sent by the multi-link site device through the first link includes: When it is determined that the target terminal device has the target data to be transmitted within the current set service time period, the first link indication control frame sent by the multi-link site device is received through the first link before the current set service time period.

28. The method according to any one of claims 22-27, characterized in that, The step of receiving the service time period mode control instruction sent by the multi-link site device through the first link includes: When the first link is determined to be a high-load link by the multi-link site device, the first link receives a second service time period mode control instruction sent by the multi-link site device, which instructs the second link to be woken up according to the set service time period.

29. The method according to claim 28, characterized in that, The method further includes: When the first link is a high-load link and it is determined that there is a target link in the second link that transmits burst service data, the second link indication control frame sent by the multi-link station is received through the first link. The second link indication control frame is used to instruct the target link to wake up before the set service time period to transmit the burst service data. The sudden service data is transmitted through the target link during the advance wake-up period.

30. The method according to claim 29, characterized in that, The link indication control frame is implemented by adding or modifying the trigger frame, and the link indication control frame includes a first link indication control frame and a second link indication control frame.

31. The method according to claim 22, characterized in that, The service time period mode control instruction is carried in the beacon frame and broadcast periodically through the first link.

32. A multi-link data transmission device, characterized in that, include: The sending module is used to send service time period mode control instructions through the first link; The service time period mode control instruction is used to indicate whether the second link is in a dormant or awake state. The second link is a link that is in a wake-up state during a set service period based on the TWT mechanism.

33. A multi-link data transmission device, characterized in that, include: The receiving module is used to receive the service time period mode control instruction sent by the multi-link site device through the first link; The service time period mode control instruction is used to indicate whether the second link is in a dormant or awake state. The second link is a link that is in a wake-up state during a set service period based on the TWT mechanism.

34. A multi-link site device, characterized in that, include: A processor and a memory for storing a computer program, the processor for calling and running the computer program stored in the memory to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 21.

35. A multi-link terminal device, characterized in that, include: A processor and a memory for storing a computer program, the processor for calling and running the computer program stored in the memory to perform the method as described in any one of claims 22 to 31.

36. A chip, characterized in that, include: A processor for retrieving and running a computer program from memory, causing a device having the chip mounted to perform the method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 21, or the method as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 31.

37. A readable storage medium, characterized in that, Used to store a computer program that causes a computer to perform the method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 21, or the method as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 31.

38. A communication device, characterized in that, include: A processor and a memory for storing a computer program, the processor for calling and running the computer program stored in the memory to perform the method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 21, or the method as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 31.

39. A communication system, characterized in that, It includes site equipment and terminal equipment, the site equipment being used to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 21, and the terminal equipment being used to perform the method as described in any one of claims 22 to 31.

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