Communication method and communication device

Abstract

The invention provides a communication method and a communication device, which are applied to the field of communication. In the technical scheme of the invention, in all or part of groups obtained by dividing the APs in the same SFN, the APs in different groups send different values of one or more parameters in the sequence number, the sending power, the antenna selection and the beam selection of the beacon frame in the same time window. Thus, the probability of beacon frame reception failure caused by similar (even equal) power values received by the STA and / or large carrier frequency offset difference in the SFN can be reduced, the probability of beacon frame analysis failure of the STA can be reduced, and the communication quality of the STA in the SFN can be improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communications, and more particularly to communication methods and communication devices. Background Technology

[0002] Single-frequency network (SFN) is a networking method that achieves zero roaming. SFN virtualizes multiple physical access points (APs) in the network into a single large "virtual AP." From the perspective of a wireless workstation (STA), the multiple APs forming a single-frequency group appear as "one large AP." When a STA switches its connection from one AP to another, the STA is unaware of this, thus believing it is always connected to the same AP while moving, eliminating the need for roaming and achieving a "zero roaming" effect.

[0003] However, SFN suffers from poor communication quality for STAs. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a communication method and a communication device that help improve the communication quality of STA.

[0005] In a first aspect, this application provides a communication method applied to a first access point. The communication method includes: acquiring first information, the first information being used to instruct the first access point to send first parameters of a beacon frame, the first parameters including at least one of the following parameters: sequence number, transmission power, antenna selection, or beam selection; the first access point being one of a plurality of access points, the plurality of access points being networked in a co-frequency manner, the plurality of access points including N access point groups, where N is an integer greater than 1, and in the N access point groups, the first parameters of the beacon frames sent by access points in different access point groups are not equal in at least one time window; and sending a beacon frame according to the first information.

[0006] In this communication method, because the first parameters of the beacon frames sent by access points in different access point groups are not equal within at least one time window, the probability of beacon frame reception failure due to multiple beacon frames with similar (or even equal) power values ​​and / or large differences in carrier frequency offset within the coverage area of ​​these access point groups within this at least one time window can be reduced. This allows the station to successfully parse the beacon frames sent by the access points in these N access point groups, thereby ensuring communication quality. For example, it can successfully go online or switch to an access point with better communication quality.

[0007] It is understood that in this communication method, these N access point groups can be access point groups obtained by dividing all access points in the same frequency network, or access point groups obtained by dividing some access points in the same frequency network.

[0008] Alternatively, these N access point groups can be all or part of the access point groups obtained by dividing all access points of the same frequency network.

[0009] In some implementations, access points within the same access point group send beacon frames with the same first parameter.

[0010] In conjunction with the first aspect, in a first possible implementation, the first information is used to instruct the first access point to send a first parameter of the beacon frame, including: the first information is used to instruct the access point group to which the first access point belongs, wherein the access point group to which the first access point belongs has a preset association relationship with the first parameter.

[0011] In conjunction with the first possible implementation, in the second possible implementation, the first information includes the level of the first access point during the time synchronization process, and the level of the first access point has a preset association relationship with the access point group to which the first access point belongs.

[0012] Alternatively, the first information indicates the access point group to which the first access point belongs by indicating its level during the time synchronization process. Or, the first information indicates the level of the first access point during the time synchronization process, and the access point group to which the first access point belongs can be determined based on its level during the time synchronization process.

[0013] In a third possible implementation, in combination with the first aspect or any of the above possible implementations, the first parameter includes a sequence number, wherein different access point groups among the N access point groups send beacon frames with different sequence numbers in different time windows.

[0014] In a fourth possible implementation, combining the first aspect or any of the above possible implementations, the first parameter includes at least one of transmit power, antenna selection, and beam selection. The N access point groups comprise S access point groups, where S is a positive integer less than or equal to N. Access points in different access point groups within the S access point groups transmit beacon frames with different values ​​for the first parameter in the first time window. Access points in different access point groups within the S access point groups transmit beacon frames with different values ​​for the first parameter in the second time window. Furthermore, access points in at least one access point group within the S access point groups transmit beacon frames with different values ​​for the first parameter in the first time window and the second time window. This implementation helps reduce the beacon frame parsing failure rate by minimizing the number of beacon frames received by the STA with similar signal power and significantly different CFOs when the communication environment changes.

[0015] In a fifth possible implementation, in conjunction with the fourth possible implementation, the first parameter of the beacon frames sent by the access points within the different access point groups is equal in at least one other time window. This implementation can reduce the implementation complexity of the access points.

[0016] In combination with the first aspect or any of the above possible implementations, in the sixth possible implementation, obtaining the first information includes: receiving the first information.

[0017] Alternatively, the first information can be obtained by receiving the first information from other devices.

[0018] Secondly, this application provides a communication device. This communication device may include modules corresponding to the methods / operations / steps / actions described in the first aspect or any possible implementation of the first aspect. These modules may be hardware circuits, software, or a combination of hardware circuits and software.

[0019] In one design, the communication device may include a processing module and a communication module. The communication module is used to perform the sending and receiving actions in the method described in the first aspect or any possible implementation thereof, while the processing module is used to perform the processing actions involved in the method described in the first aspect or any possible implementation thereof.

[0020] In one design, the communication device may be an access point, or a device, module, circuit, or chip configured in the access point, or a device that can be used in conjunction with the access point.

[0021] Thirdly, a communication device is provided, including a processor, wherein instructions are executed by the processor to cause a method as described in the first aspect or any possible implementation thereof to be implemented.

[0022] Optionally, the communication device may further include a storage medium that stores the instructions executed by the processor.

[0023] Fourthly, a chip is provided, including processing circuitry for running programs or instructions to implement methods as described in the first aspect or any possible implementation thereof.

[0024] Optionally, the chip may further include a memory for storing programs or instructions.

[0025] Optionally, the chip may also include the transceiver circuit, or an input / output interface.

[0026] Fifthly, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, the computer-readable storage medium including instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the method as described in the first aspect or any possible implementation thereof to be implemented.

[0027] In a sixth aspect, a computer program product is provided, the computer program product comprising computer program code or instructions, which, when executed, cause the method as described in the first aspect or any possible implementation thereof to be implemented. Attached Figure Description

[0028] Figure 1 This is an exemplary structural diagram of a wireless communication system according to an embodiment of this application;

[0029] Figure 2 This is an example diagram of an SFN according to an embodiment of this application;

[0030] Figure 3 An example diagram illustrating the transmission of beacon frames by an AP according to one embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 4 This is an example diagram of an SFN according to an embodiment of this application;

[0032] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating a communication method according to an embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figure 6 This is an example diagram of AP packetization according to an embodiment of this application;

[0034] Figures 7 to 15 This is an example diagram of beacon frame transmission according to an embodiment of this application;

[0035] Figure 16 This is an exemplary structural diagram of a communication device according to an embodiment of this application;

[0036] Figure 17 This is an exemplary structural diagram of a communication device according to an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0037] The technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0038] To facilitate a clear description of the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the terms "first" and "second" are used in the embodiments of this application to distinguish identical or similar items with essentially the same function and effect. Those skilled in the art will understand that the terms "first" and "second" do not limit the quantity or execution order, and the terms "first" and "second" are not necessarily different.

[0039] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of this application, the terms "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate examples, illustrations, or descriptions. Any embodiment or design scheme described as "exemplary" or "for example" in this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or design schemes. Specifically, the use of terms such as "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner.

[0040] In this application embodiment, "at least one" refers to one or more, and "more than one" refers to two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A alone, A and B simultaneously, or B alone, where A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship. "At least one of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one of a, b, and / or c can represent: a, b, c, ab, ac, bc, or abc, where a, b, and c can be single or multiple.

[0041] Figure 1 A wireless communication system 100 applicable to embodiments of this application is illustrated. The wireless communication system 100 may include at least one station, for example, Figure 1 Site 1 is shown.

[0042] In a wireless communication system 100, a station (STA) can be referred to as terminal equipment, user equipment (UE), access terminal, user unit, user station, mobile station, mobile station, mobile device, user terminal, terminal, wireless communication equipment, user agent, or user device.

[0043] Examples of STAs include: mobile phones, tablets, laptops, PDAs, mobile internet devices (MIDs), virtual reality (VR) devices, augmented reality (AR) devices, wireless terminals in industrial control, self-driving, remote medical surgery, smart grids, transportation safety, smart cities, smart homes, cellular phones, cordless phones, session initiation protocol (SIP) phones, wireless local loop (WLL) stations, personal digital assistants (PDAs), wireless terminals in the Internet of Things (IoT), handheld devices with wireless communication capabilities, computing devices or other processing devices connected to a wireless modem, terminal devices in 5G networks, or future evolution of public land mobile communication networks. Terminal devices in a network (PLMN), etc., are not limited to this in the embodiments of this application.

[0044] As an example and not a limitation, in the wireless communication system 100, the STA can also be a wearable device. Wearable devices, also known as wearable smart devices, are a general term for devices that utilize wearable technology to intelligently design and develop everyday wearables, such as glasses, gloves, watches, clothing, and shoes. Wearable devices are portable devices that are worn directly on the body or integrated into the user's clothing or accessories. Wearable devices are not merely hardware devices, but also achieve powerful functions through software support, data interaction, and cloud interaction. Broadly speaking, wearable smart devices include those that are feature-rich, large in size, and can achieve complete or partial functions without relying on a smartphone, such as smartwatches or smart glasses, as well as those that focus on a specific application function and require the use of other devices such as smartphones, such as various smart bracelets and smart jewelry for vital sign monitoring.

[0045] The wireless communication system 100 may include multiple access points (APs), for example, Figure 1 The diagram shows Access Point 1, Access Point 2, and Access Point 3, etc. An AP is a wireless switch used in a wireless network and is also the core of the wireless network. An AP can communicate with STAs via a wireless air interface, providing communication coverage for a specific geographical area and communicating with STAs located within that coverage area.

[0046] For example, an AP is an access point for mobile computer users to access a wired network. It is used in broadband homes, inside buildings, and within campuses, and can cover tens to hundreds of meters.

[0047] An AP can be an access point in a wireless local area network (WLAN), or it can be a network device in a 5G network, such as a transmission reception point (TRP), base station, or small base station device. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0048] Some examples of access points (APs) include: wireless routers, gateways, hotspots, and terminal devices in AP (or hotspot) mode.

[0049] In some scenarios, the wireless communication system 100 also includes an access point controller (AC). The AC is used for centralized management of access points and is the core of the wireless network. Its main functions are centralized management of RF tuning, air interface optimization, and security authentication of access points under the network deployment. It can also be used to forward packets between switches and access points.

[0050] In some implementations, the AC is a device that exists independently of the AP. In other implementations, the AC is one of multiple APs.

[0051] In some scenarios, multiple access points (APs) in a wireless communication system are networked using the SFN (Single-Frequency Network) method. Co-frequency networking is a zero-roaming networking method and solution. Co-frequency networking divides multiple APs in the network into a single frequency group. APs within this group operate on the same channel. When a STA switches between different physical APs, the BSSID remains unchanged, and no roaming occurs for the STA. The coverage area of ​​multiple APs is merged into the coverage area of ​​"one AP," meaning multiple APs are virtually combined into a large "virtual AP." After a STA associates with this "large AP," the AC (Access Controller) decides which physical AP the STA actually associates with based on factors such as signal strength and network load. During the process of a STA switching from one physical AP to another, the STA is unaware of the connection, and no roaming event occurs. Communication is unaffected; it's as if the AP moves with the STA. Therefore, APs in co-frequency networking are also known as "flying APs."

[0052] An access point (AP) periodically sends beacon frames (e.g., every 100 milliseconds) to inform the outside world of its existence. For example, an AP periodically sends beacon frames at certain time intervals to inform the outside world of the existence of a basic service set (BSS) and to provide some basic information about the BSS, such as the basic service set identifier (BSSID), service set identity (SSID), channel, frequency, and country code.

[0053] When a STA is not yet connected to an AP, it receives beacon frames sent by the AP. It uses these beacon frames to probe the network and selects an AP with good signal quality to attempt to establish a connection. Once the terminal is online, it continuously receives AP beacons to detect changes in network parameters, network signal quality, and maintain network connectivity. In short, beacons are a fundamental and crucial management frame for the terminal when using Wi-Fi.

[0054] It is understood that the beacon frames in this application may also have other names. Any frame whose function is the same as or similar to that of the beacon frames in this application should be included in the scope of beacon frames in this application.

[0055] Figure 2 This is an example diagram of an SFN according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 2 As shown, 9 APs are operating on channel number 36. It's understandable that the number of APs (9) and the number of channels (36) are merely examples.

[0056] Figure 3This is an example diagram illustrating the transmission of beacon frames by an AP according to one embodiment of this application. Figure 3 As shown, AP1, AP2, and AP3 in the SFN simultaneously transmit beacon frames, and the content of the frame bodies of the beacon frames transmitted by these three APs is identical. For example, the value indicated by the beacon interval field in the beacon frame transmitted by AP1 is equal to the value indicated by the beacon interval field in the beacon frames transmitted by AP2 and AP3.

[0057] However, in SFN, there may be issues where the STA cannot connect to the AP or disconnects after connecting to the AP, resulting in poor communication quality for the STA. STA connecting to the AP can also be referred to as going online.

[0058] For example, the simultaneous transmission of beacon frames by different access points (APs) relies on time synchronization, and a timed transmission function is used to send the beacon frames based on time synchronization. However, in some scenarios, multiple APs cannot guarantee time synchronization. For instance, if the time synchronization process involves multiple hops, there may be time discrepancies between the APs, which can lead to carrier frequency offset (CFO) between the beacon frames transmitted by the multiple APs.

[0059] If the STA receives beacon frames from multiple APs with similar signal strengths and significantly different carrier frequency offsets, the STA may fail to parse the beacon frames, resulting in the STA being unable to go online or disconnecting after going online.

[0060] Figure 4 This is an example diagram of an SFN according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 4 As shown, SFN includes AP11, AP21, AP22, AP31, and AP32.

[0061] From a topology perspective, AP11 is selected as the central AP. AP11 is connected to AP21 and AP22, AP21 is connected to AP31, and AP22 is connected to AP32. Among them, AP11 is the first-level AP, AP21 and AP22 are the second-level APs, and AP31 and AP32 are the third-level APs.

[0062] From the perspective of signal coverage, the signal transmitted by AP11 can be received by AP21 and AP22, or in other words, AP21 and AP22 are within the signal coverage range of AP11; the signal transmitted by AP21 can be received by AP31, or in other words, AP31 is within the signal coverage range of AP21; the signal transmitted by AP22 can be received by AP32, or in other words, AP32 is within the signal coverage range of AP22.

[0063] From the perspective of time synchronization, AP11 can serve as the central AP of the SFN, providing time synchronization to other APs. Time synchronization is achieved via the path from AP11 to AP21 and then to AP31, and again via the path from AP11 to AP22 and then to AP32. AP11 can be considered the first-level AP in the time synchronization process, AP21 and AP22 can be considered the second-level APs, and AP31 and AP32 can be considered the third-level APs.

[0064] In some implementations, the AP's topology is determined based on its level during time synchronization. In this case, the AP's level in the topology and its level during time synchronization can be interchanged.

[0065] like Figure 4 As shown, the STA is not within the coverage area of ​​AP11, but is within the coverage area of ​​AP21, AP22, AP31, and AP32. When the received signal power of the beacon frames from AP21, AP22, AP32, and AP31 perceived by the STA is similar, but the CFO (Cost Forward Flag) differs significantly among these beacon frames, the STA will fail to resolve the received beacon. In this case, this location can be considered a coverage blind spot for the STA, leading to scanning failures and poor network quality.

[0066] To address the issue of poor network quality in STAs, this application provides a new technical solution to improve the communication quality of STAs in SFNs.

[0067] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating a communication method according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 5 As shown, this communication method includes S510 and S520. This communication method can be executed by an access point; or, this communication method can be executed by a device such as a chip, chip system, processor, processor system, circuit unit, or circuit system applied to the access point. For ease of description, the following content will use the first access point as the execution subject as an example.

[0068] S510, Obtain first information, the first information is used to indicate the first parameters for the first access point to send beacon frames, the first parameters include at least one of the following parameters: sequence number, transmission power, antenna selection, or beam selection; the first access point is one of a plurality of access points, the networking mode of the plurality of access points is co-frequency networking, the plurality of access points include N access point groups, N is an integer greater than 1, in the N access point groups, the first parameters for the beacon frames sent by access points in different access point groups are not equal in at least one time window.

[0069] It is understandable that the first access point is essentially an access point, but it is called the first access point for the sake of convenience.

[0070] In this embodiment of the application, the APs in the SFN are divided into multiple groups. For N groups in these multiple groups, the values ​​of some parameters involved when the APs in different groups send beacon frames within at least one time window are different. These parameters may include at least one of the following: sequence number, transmission power, antenna selection, or beam selection.

[0071] It is understandable that these N groups can contain all or some of the groups in these multiple groups.

[0072] It can be understood that if the first parameters of the beacon frames sent by access points in different access point groups within these N access point groups are not equal in at least one time window, it means that there are at least two access point groups in these N access point groups, and the APs in different groups within these two access point groups send beacon frames with unequal first parameters in at least one time window.

[0073] For example, when the N access point groups include a first access point group and a second access point group, the first parameters of the beacon frames sent by the first access point group and the second access point group in at least one time window are not equal.

[0074] If these N access point groups also include a third access point group, the first parameter of the beacon frame sent by the third access point group within the at least one time window may be different from the first parameter corresponding to both the first and second access point groups; or, it may be equal to the first parameter corresponding to one of the first and second access point groups, and different from the first parameter corresponding to the other group.

[0075] If these N access point groups contain more access point groups, the relationship between the first parameter corresponding to the more access point groups and the first parameter corresponding to the other access point groups can be referenced to the relationship between the first parameter corresponding to the third access point group and the first parameter corresponding to the first and second access point groups, which will not be elaborated here.

[0076] In this embodiment, the first information can indicate the value of the first parameter in an explicit or implicit manner. Any information that enables the first access point to know the value of the first parameter when it sends a beacon frame can be understood as the first information.

[0077] Here's an example of how the first information indicates the value of the first parameter through display: the first information directly carries the value of the first parameter.

[0078] Here is an example of how the first information implicitly indicates the value of the first parameter: The first information indicates information that is related to the value of the first parameter, and the STA can determine the value of the first parameter based on the information carried in the first information and this relationship.

[0079] In the implementation of the first information implicitly indicating the value of the first parameter, as an example, the first information indicates the AP group to which the AP belongs or the AP's level in the time synchronization process. There is a correlation between the AP group to which the AP belongs and the value of the first parameter, and there is a correlation between the AP's level in the time synchronization process and the AP's group.

[0080] When the first information displays the value of the first parameter, the first access point can directly obtain the value of the first parameter through the first information, thereby reducing the implementation complexity of the first access point and improving the efficiency of the first access point in sending beacon frames.

[0081] When the first information implicitly indicates the value of the first parameter, it can improve the flexibility of the first access point in knowing the value of the first parameter, making the application scenarios of the first access point more extensive.

[0082] In this embodiment, the time window can be understood as the period during which the AP in the SFN sends beacon frames.

[0083] In this embodiment, the sequence number involved when the AP sends a beacon frame can be understood as the sequence number (Seq Number) in the frame control field of the beacon frame sent by the AP.

[0084] When APs from different groups send beacon frames with different sequence numbers within at least one time window, it can be understood that when APs from one group send beacon frames within that time window, APs from at least one other group do not send beacon frames within that time window. In this way, APs from different groups will not send beacon frames with the same sequence number within the same time window.

[0085] Within the same time window, the number of beacon frames received by the STA is related to the number of APs sending beacon frames. The more APs sending beacon frames within the same time window, the greater the likelihood that the STA will receive more beacon frames. This increases the probability that these beacon frames will have similar power and significantly different CFOs, thus increasing the likelihood that the STA will fail to resolve the beacon frames received within that time window. Conversely, the fewer APs sending beacon frames within the same time window, the less likely the STA will receive more beacon frames. This also decreases the probability that these beacon frames will have similar power and significantly different CFOs, reducing the likelihood of the STA failing to resolve the beacon frames received within that time window, and increasing the probability of successful resolution.

[0086] Therefore, in this embodiment of the application, at least two groups of APs do not send beacon frames with the same sequence number in at least one time window, or in other words, at least one group of APs does not send beacon frames within the at least one time window. This reduces the number of beacon frames received by the STA in the at least one time window, thereby reducing the probability that the STA receives beacon frames with similar power and / or large differences in CFO. This helps to avoid beacon frame parsing failure and ensure communication quality.

[0087] by Figure 4 Taking the scenario as an example, assume AP21 is the first group, and AP22, AP31, and AP32 are the second group. Within a time window, the APs in the first group (i.e., AP21) do not send beacon frames, while the APs in the second group (i.e., AP22, AP31, and AP32) do. In this case, the STA receives three beacon frames. Compared to the STA receiving four beacon frames, the fewer beacon frames received reduce the probability of beacon frames having similar signal power and significantly different CFOs, thus lowering the probability of beacon frame parsing failure.

[0088] In this embodiment, the transmission power involved in AP sending beacon frames refers to the transmission power used by the AP to send beacon frames. Different groups of APs use different transmission powers when sending beacon frames within at least one time window. This can be understood as follows: when one group of APs uses one power value to send beacon frames within the at least one time window, the APs of at least one other group use a different power value to send beacon frames within the at least one time window.

[0089] Within the same time window, fewer beacon frames transmitted with equal power values ​​reduce the likelihood of the STA receiving signal frames with similar power; in other words, it increases the probability of the STA receiving beacon frames with significantly different signal power. In this case, even if the CFO (Cost Forecast Function) of multiple beacon frames received by the STA within that time window differs significantly, the STA is more likely to successfully resolve the beacon frames received within that time window because these beacon frames with significantly different CFOs are more likely to have significantly different signal power.

[0090] by Figure 4 Taking the scenario as an example, assume AP21 is the first group, and AP22, AP31, and AP32 are the second group. Within a time window, the APs in the first group (i.e., AP21) transmit beacon frames using the first power value, while the APs in the second group (i.e., AP22, AP31, and AP32) transmit beacon frames using the second power value.

[0091] Compared to AP21, AP22, AP31, and AP32 having the same transmit power, resulting in similar signal power for the four beacon frames received by the STA, the first group of APs has a different transmit power than the second group. Therefore, the probability that the signal power of beacon frames received by the STA from the first group is similar to that received from the second group is reduced. In this case, even if the CFOs of the four beacon frames differ significantly, the probability of the STA successfully resolving the beacon frames increases.

[0092] In this embodiment, the antenna selection involved in the AP transmitting beacon frames refers to the antenna combination selected or used by the AP when transmitting beacon frames. It can be understood that different antenna combinations generally result in different antenna directions; that is, different groups of APs using different antenna combinations to transmit beacon frames mean that different APs have different antenna directions when transmitting beacon frames.

[0093] When APs from different groups transmit beacon frames within at least one time window, they use different antenna selections. This can be understood as follows: when APs from one group transmit beacon frames using one antenna selection within the at least one time window, APs from at least one other group transmit beacon frames using another antenna selection within the at least one time window.

[0094] Compared to multiple groups of APs using the same antenna selection to transmit beacon frames, when different groups of APs use different antenna selections to transmit beacon frames, because the antenna selections of the different groups of APs are different, even if the transmission power of these different groups of APs is the same, it can reduce the possibility that the signal power of the beacon frames transmitted by these APs is similar when they arrive at the STA, thereby reducing the probability of the STA failing to resolve the beacon frames.

[0095] by Figure 4 For example, AP21, AP22, AP31, and AP32, based on existing technologies, use the same antenna to transmit beacon frames in the same direction within the same time window, and the signal power of the four beacon frames received by the STA is similar. Assuming the STA is not within the coverage area of ​​AP11, AP11 is not considered here, and its influence is ignored.

[0096] According to the method of this embodiment, assuming AP21 is the first group and AP22, AP31, and AP32 are the second group. Within a time window, the APs of the first group (i.e., AP21) use the first antenna to selectively transmit beacon frames in the first direction, while the APs of the second group (i.e., AP22, AP31, and AP32) use the second antenna to selectively transmit beacon frames in the second direction. Because the signal transmission directions of the APs in the first group are different from those in the second group, i.e., the signal transmission directions of the APs in the first group are different from those in the prior art, the power of the signals from the APs in the first group reaching the STA is different from that in the prior art. Therefore, the probability that the signal power received by the STA from the beacon frames of the first group is similar to that received from the beacon frames of the second group is reduced. In this case, even if the CFOs of these four beacon frames differ significantly, the probability of the STA successfully resolving the beacon frames can be increased.

[0097] In this embodiment, beam selection involved in AP beacon frame transmission refers to the beam selected or used by the AP when transmitting the beacon frame. Different groups of APs use different beams when transmitting beacon frames, which can be understood as different beam directions for transmitting beacon frames.

[0098] When APs from different groups transmit beacon frames within at least one time window, they use different beam selections. This can be understood as follows: when APs from one group transmit beacon frames using one beam in at least one time window, APs from at least one other group transmit beacon frames using another beam selection in at least one time window.

[0099] Different groups of APs use different beam selections when transmitting beacon frames within at least one time window. This can reduce the possibility that the signal power of the beacon frames transmitted by the APs will be similar when they reach the STA. The principle can be found in the relevant content on different antenna selections used by different groups of APs when transmitting beacon frames within at least one time window, which will not be repeated here.

[0100] As can be seen from the above, the first parameter, including antenna selection or beam selection, is intended to change the signal power of the signal frames transmitted by the AP when they arrive at the STA, thereby increasing the difference in signal power between beacon frames arriving at the STA when different groups of APs transmit beacon frames in the same time window. Therefore, any parameter that can affect or determine the power of the signal transmitted by the AP when it arrives at the STA can be included in the scope of the first parameter in this embodiment.

[0101] In this embodiment, each access point group may contain one or more access points.

[0102] In this embodiment, the first parameter of the beacon frame sent by access points in different access point groups in at least one time window is not equal, which means that the first parameter of the beacon frame sent by access points in different access point groups in one or more time windows is not the same.

[0103] In some implementations of this embodiment, among these N AP groups, APs within the same AP group send beacon frames with the same first parameter in at least one time window.

[0104] S520 sends a beacon frame based on the first information.

[0105] In this embodiment, sending a beacon frame according to the first information can be understood as sending the beacon frame according to the value of the first parameter indicated by the first information, or it can be understood as the value of the first parameter involved in the sent beacon frame being the value indicated by the first information. In this embodiment, when the first parameter includes multiple parameters such as sequence number, transmission power, antenna selection, and beam selection, beacon frame parsing failure can be avoided from multiple perspectives, thus further improving communication quality.

[0106] The following describes some exemplary grouping methods for APs in SFN.

[0107] In some implementations, APs are grouped based on their level in the SFN time synchronization process.

[0108] Grouping APs based on their level in the SFN time synchronization process can include at least one of the following methods: APs of different levels can be assigned to different groups; APs of multiple levels can be assigned to the same group, for example, multiple non-adjacent APs of different levels can be assigned to the same group; or, different APs of the same level can be assigned to one or more groups.

[0109] As an example, after selecting a central AP, the central AP is designated as the first-level AP and set as group 1. Its neighboring APs that can perceive the central AP are designated as the second-level APs and set as group 2. Similarly, neighboring APs that can perceive the second-level APs are designated as the third-level APs and set as group 1. This process continues when there are more levels of APs. For example, Figure 4 In the topology shown, access points 11, 31, and 32 are grouped into one group, and access points 21 and 22 are grouped into another group. This reduces the probability of beacon frame reception failure due to similar (or even equal) power values ​​received by the stations and / or large differences in carrier frequency offset, thereby improving communication quality.

[0110] As an example, APs with significantly different CFOs are grouped into different groups.

[0111] Furthermore, APs with significantly different CFOs but similar locations can be grouped into different groups. In other words, APs with significantly different CFOs but geographically distant locations can be grouped into the same group.

[0112] In some implementations, the proximity of APs is determined by their relative distance. For example, if the relative distance between APs is less than or equal to a preset distance threshold, then the APs are considered to be close to each other.

[0113] In some implementations, AP coverage heatmaps are obtained through simulation, or received signal strength indication (RSSI) is manually collected and a coverage heatmap is obtained. The heatmaps are used to identify coverage blind spots caused by similar RSSI and large differences in CFO. All or some APs whose signal coverage includes the coverage blind spots are set to different groups.

[0114] In some implementations of this embodiment, the APs are manually grouped, and then the grouping information is configured in the APs, along with the association between the grouping information and the first parameter. For example, the APs in the SNF are divided into group 1, group 2, and group 3, and the grouping information of the APs and the association between the grouping and the value of the first parameter are configured in the APs.

[0115] In this way, the AP can determine the value of the first parameter when sending beacon frames based on its own packets and the correlation between the packet information and the value of the first parameter, and thus can send beacon frames based on the value of the first parameter.

[0116] In some implementations of this embodiment, the grouping information can be a group identifier, for example, 00, 01, 10 and 11 each represent a group.

[0117] In some implementations, the group information can be a level in the time synchronization process, which is associated with a group identifier, and the group identifier is associated with a first parameter. In this way, the AP can determine the group identifier of its own group based on its level in the synchronization process, and then determine the value of the first parameter based on the group identifier.

[0118] In some implementations, the grouping information can be a level in the time synchronization process, which is correlated with the first parameter. In this way, the AP can determine the value of the first parameter based on its own level in the synchronization process.

[0119] The grouping information in the above implementation method can be understood as the first information.

[0120] In some implementations of this embodiment, the AP is manually grouped and the value of the first parameter corresponding to each group is determined. Then, the AP is manually or through the AC to configure the value of the first parameter corresponding to its group. In this implementation, the value of the first parameter configured in the AP is the first information.

[0121] In any of the above implementation methods, manual grouping can be replaced by grouping by the AC and configuring the grouping information to the AP.

[0122] In this embodiment, among the implementations involving different sequence numbers when APs in different groups send beacon frames, APs in different groups send beacon frames in different time windows. For example, APs in different groups send beacon frames alternately or sequentially.

[0123] For example, such as Figure 6 As shown, the APs within an SFN are divided into groups 1 and 2. Dashed boxes indicate access points in group 1, while solid boxes indicate access points in group 2.

[0124] Taking these N groups, which include group 1 and group 2, as an example, Figure 7 As shown, the APs in group 1 and group 2 alternately send beacon frames.

[0125] As an example, Group 1 sends beacon frames with odd sequence numbers, while Group 2 sends beacon frames with even sequence numbers. Alternatively, for Group 1 and Group 2, during the period when odd-sequence-numbered beacon frames are sent, the APs in Group 1 send those odd-sequence-numbered beacon frames, while the APs in Group 2 do not send any beacon frames; conversely, during the period when even-sequence-numbered beacon frames are sent, the APs in Group 2 send those even-sequence-numbered beacon frames, while the APs in Group 1 do not send any beacon frames.

[0126] In this example, the STA receives beacon frames from AP 1 during the period when sending beacon frames with odd sequence numbers, but will not receive beacon frames from AP 2. When the CFO between beacon frames sent by AP 1 and beacon frames sent by AP 2 differs significantly, the STA can avoid receiving beacon frames with a large CFO difference, thereby reducing the failure rate of the STA in parsing the beacon frames received in this period.

[0127] Similarly, when the STA receives beacon frames from AP 2 during the period when sending beacon frames with even sequence numbers, it will not receive beacon frames from AP 1. If the CFO between the beacon frames sent by AP 1 and AP 2 differs significantly, the STA can avoid receiving beacon frames with a large CFO difference, thereby reducing the failure rate of the STA in parsing the beacon frames received in that period.

[0128] It is understood that the above implementation method involving sequence numbers is merely an example, and the method for implementing different values ​​of the first parameter of beacon frames sent by APs in different groups within the same window in this embodiment is not limited to this. For example, APs in one of the N groups can send beacon frames for multiple consecutive cycles, during which APs in other groups of the N groups do not send beacon frames; APs in another group of the N groups send beacon frames in one or more subsequent cycles, during which APs in other groups of the N groups do not send beacon frames.

[0129] In some implementations of this embodiment, the N access point groups include S access point groups, where S is a positive integer less than or equal to N. Different access point groups within the S access point groups transmit beacon frames with different values ​​for the first parameter in the first time window. Different access point groups within the S access point groups also transmit beacon frames with different values ​​for the first parameter in the second time window. Furthermore, at least one access point group within the S access point groups transmits beacon frames with different values ​​for the first parameter in both the first and second time windows. Compared to situations where each access point group in the S access point groups transmits beacon frames with the same first parameter in each time window, this approach reduces the probability of the STA receiving beacon frames with similar signal power but significantly different CFPs even when the communication environment of the S access point groups changes. This reduces the beacon frame parsing failure rate.

[0130] by Figure 4 For example, taking the first parameter as the transmission power, we assume that AP21 is the first group, and AP22, AP31 and AP32 are the second group.

[0131] Within the first and second time windows, if all APs in the first group (AP21) transmit beacon frames using the first power, and all APs in the second group (AP22, AP31, and AP32) transmit beacon frames using the second power, then within the first time window, because the transmission power of the two groups is different, the STA will not receive beacon frames with similar signal power and significantly different CFOs. Within the second time window, the signal of AP22 is blocked, causing the signal power of AP22's beacon frames reaching the STA to be similar to that of AP21's beacon frames, resulting in the STA receiving beacon frames with similar signal power and significantly different CFOs.

[0132] If, within the first time window, the first group of APs (i.e., AP21) transmits beacon frames using the first power, and the second group of APs (i.e., AP22, AP31, and AP32) transmits beacon frames using the second power; and within the second time window, the first group of APs (i.e., AP21) transmits beacon frames using the third power, and the second group of APs (i.e., AP22, AP31, and AP32) transmit beacon frames using the second power, then, because the third power used by AP21 in the second time window is different from the first power, even if the signal of AP22 is blocked within the second time window, the signal power of the beacon frame arriving at the STA from AP22 can be avoided being similar to the signal power of the beacon frame arriving at the STA from AP21. This reduces the probability that the STA receives beacon frames with similar signal power but significantly different CFOs.

[0133] In some implementations of this embodiment, when access points within different access point groups of N access point groups send beacon frames with unequal values ​​for the first parameter in at least one time window, these different access point groups send beacon frames with equal values ​​for the first parameter in at least one other time window. Alternatively, these N access point groups send beacon frames with equal values ​​for the first parameter in some time windows, and send beacon frames with unequal values ​​for the first parameter in other time windows. The time windows where the first parameter values ​​are equal and the time windows where the first parameter values ​​are unequal can alternate.

[0134] Because the STA periodically scans beacon frames, as long as the STA can successfully parse the beacon frame in any time window with a different value for the first parameter, and because the STA usually stops scanning after scanning the beacon frame, different groups of APs do not need to use different values ​​for the first parameter to send beacon frames in each time window, which can reduce the implementation complexity of the AP.

[0135] In some implementations, when S groups transmit beacon frames using different transmission powers in different time windows, and at least one of the groups transmits beacon frames using different transmission powers in different time windows, these S groups alternately use multiple transmission powers.

[0136] In some implementations, at least two of the S groups use multiple transmission powers alternately over multiple cycles, and the transmission powers used by different groups in these at least two groups are not equal. For example, one group alternates between power 1, power 2, and power 3, and the other group alternates between power 4 and power 5. The three powers of power 1, power 2, and power 3 do not overlap with or are not equal to the two powers of power 4 and power 5.

[0137] As an example, different groups of APs alternately transmit beacon frames using the same transmission power. Alternatively, different groups of APs use equal transmission power in different time windows.

[0138] Taking these N groups, including group 3 and group 4, as an example, Figure 8 As shown, there are two transmission powers, and the APs in group 3 and group 4 alternately use these two transmission powers to transmit beacon frames.

[0139] For example, when sending beacon frames with odd sequence numbers, or in other words, during the period when sending odd sequence numbers, the power of beacon frames sent by group 3 is 6 dB higher than that of group 4; when sending beacon frames with even sequence numbers, or in other words, during the period when sending even sequence numbers, the power of beacon frames sent by group 4 is 6 dB higher than that of group 3.

[0140] It is understandable that the 6 dB in the above example is just an example; the key is that the transmission power of Group 3 and Group 4 is different within the same cycle. For example, the AP in Group 3 can use the first transmission power to send beacon frames for several consecutive cycles, and then use the second transmission power to send beacon frames for one or several consecutive cycles. The transmission power used by the AP in Group 4 is staggered with that used by the AP in Group 1, and it is different from the transmission power used by the AP in Group 1 within the same cycle.

[0141] For example, groups 3 and 4 can alternate between two or more transmission powers. As an example, group 3 uses power 1 in the first cycle, power 2 in the second cycle, and power 3 in the third cycle; group 4 uses power 3 in the first cycle, power 1 in the second cycle, and power 2 in the third cycle.

[0142] Figure 8 In the example described, within each time window, different groups of APs use different transmission powers to transmit beacon frames; within different time windows, APs in the same group use different transmission powers to transmit beacon frames. In this way, even when the communication environment changes, the probability of the STA receiving beacon frames with large differences in CFO and similar signal power within each time window can be reduced, thereby reducing the failure rate of the STA in parsing beacon frames.

[0143] In some implementations, these N groups may include one or more groups that use the same transmission power across multiple time windows. For ease of description, such a group is referred to as the first access point group, denoted as group 6.

[0144] Taking these N groups, including group 5 and group 6, as an example, Figure 9 As shown, APs in group 5 alternate between two transmission powers in different periods, while APs in group 6 use the same transmission power to transmit beacon frames in different periods.

[0145] For example, when Group 5 sends beacon frames with odd sequence numbers, the transmission power increases by 6 dB, while when sending beacon frames with even sequence numbers, the transmission power remains the same; the transmission power of beacon frames in Group 6 remains unchanged.

[0146] The transmission power used in group 6 can be one of the two transmission powers used in group 5, or it can be a different transmission power than these two.

[0147] Understandable. Figure 9 This is just an example. For instance, group 5 could use a wider variety of transmit power levels alternately.

[0148] Figure 9 In the example, within some time windows, different groups of APs transmit beacon frames using different transmit powers; within other time windows, different groups of APs transmit beacon frames using the same transmit power. This provides STAs with time windows that reduce the probability of receiving beacon frames with significantly different CFOs and similar signal power, while also reducing the implementation complexity of the APs.

[0149] In some implementations, different access groups contain Figure 9 In the transmission method shown, at least one time window may be included, wherein within each time window, the power of beacon frames transmitted by groups 5 and 6 is different; however, the power of signal frames transmitted by group 5 is the same as that of... Figure 9 The power already shown is not equal, and / or, the power of the signal frame transmitted by group 6 is different from that of the signal frame transmitted by group 6. Figure 9 The power values ​​shown in the figure are not equal.

[0150] In some implementations of this embodiment, S groups transmit beacon frames using different transmission powers in different time windows, and at least one group transmits beacon frames using different transmission powers in different time windows. In some implementations, multiple groups can alternately use multiple antenna selections to transmit beacon frames. For example... Figure 10 As shown, group 7 alternates between using the first antenna combination and the second antenna combination to transmit beacon frames in multiple consecutive cycles, while group 8 alternates between using the second antenna combination and the first antenna combination to transmit beacon frames in these multiple cycles.

[0151] To more intuitively illustrate the differences in antenna combinations for transmission in different cycles, Figure 10 The signal transmission direction corresponding to the antenna combination is divided into two directions: the signal transmission direction corresponding to one antenna combination is to the left, and the signal transmission direction corresponding to the other antenna combination is to the right.

[0152] Understandable. Figure 10 The two antenna combinations given are just examples, the alternating antenna combinations in each cycle are also just examples, and the multiple alternating antenna combinations containing the same antenna combination are also just examples.

[0153] Figure 10 In the example described, the access points of group 7 and group 8 use different antennas to send beacon frames in each time window. This avoids receiving beacon frames with similar signal power and large differences in CFO, thereby reducing the failure rate of the STA in parsing the beacon frames received in that period.

[0154] In some implementations, these N groups may include one or more groups that use the same antenna selection across multiple time windows. For ease of description, such a group is referred to as the second access point group, denoted as group 10.

[0155] Taking these N groups, including group 9 and group 10, as an example, Figure 11 As shown, APs in group 9 use two antenna combinations alternately in different periods, while APs in group 10 use the same antenna combination to transmit beacon frames in different periods.

[0156] For example, Group 9 uses an antenna combination pointing to the left when transmitting beacon frames with odd sequence numbers, and an antenna combination pointing to the right when transmitting beacon frames with even sequence numbers; the direction of the antenna combination for beacon frames in Group 10 remains unchanged, always pointing to the right.

[0157] Understandable. Figure 11 These are just examples. For instance, Group 9 can use a wider variety of antenna combinations; and Group 10 can use antenna combinations other than those used in Group 7.

[0158] Figure 11 In the example, within some time windows, different groups of APs use different antennas to select and transmit beacon frames; within other time windows, different groups of APs use the same antenna to select and transmit beacon frames. This provides STAs with time windows that reduce the probability of receiving beacon frames with significantly different CFOs and similar signal power, while also reducing the implementation complexity of the APs.

[0159] In some implementations, different access groups contain Figure 10 In the case of the transmission method shown, at least one time window may also be included, wherein within each time window, the antenna selection for transmitting beacon frames in groups 7 and 8 is the same.

[0160] In this embodiment, different groups of APs transmit beacon frames and there are some implementation methods involving different beam selections. You can refer to some implementation methods involving different groups of APs transmit beacon frames and there are different antenna selections. For example, you can replace the antenna selection with beam selection. This will not be elaborated here.

[0161] Figure 12 This is an example diagram of a beacon frame transmission where the first parameter includes both the sequence number and the transmission power. (Example:) Figure 12 As shown, for groups 11 and 12, in some periods, only group 11 sends beacon frames, and the transmission power is 6 dB higher than the normal power; in other periods, only group 12 sends beacon frames, and the transmission power is the normal power.

[0162] Figure 13 This is an example diagram illustrating the transmission of a beacon frame when the first parameter includes both a sequence number and an antenna combination. (See diagram below.) Figure 13 As shown, for groups 13 and 14, in some periods, only group 13 transmits beacon frames, and the direction of the antenna combination is to the left; in other periods, only group 14 transmits beacon frames, and the direction of the antenna combination includes both the right and left directions.

[0163] The transmission method of beacon frames when the first parameter includes both the sequence number and beam selection is similar to that when the first parameter includes both the sequence number and antenna combination, and will not be described again here.

[0164] Figure 14 This is an example diagram illustrating the transmission of a beacon frame when the first parameter includes both transmit power and antenna combination. (See diagram below.) Figure 14 As shown, for groups 15 and 16, in some periods, group 15 transmits beacon frames at 6 dB higher power than normal, with the antenna array pointing to the left; group 16 transmits beacon frames at normal power, with the antenna array pointing to the right. In other periods, group 16 transmits beacon frames at 6 dB higher power than normal, with the antenna array pointing to the left; group 15 transmits beacon frames at normal power, with the antenna array pointing to the right.

[0165] The transmission method of beacon frames when the first parameter includes both transmit power and beam selection is similar to that when the first parameter includes both transmit power and antenna combination, and will not be described again here.

[0166] Figure 14 In the example, the APs in different groups have different transmission power and antenna selection in the same time window, and the APs in the same group have different transmission power and antenna selection in different time windows. This can reduce the probability of the STA receiving beacon frames with large CFO differences and similar signal power when the communication environment is more complex.

[0167] Figure 15 This is an example diagram illustrating the transmission of a beacon frame when the first parameter simultaneously includes the sequence number, transmit power, and antenna combination. (See diagram below.) Figure 15As shown, for groups 17 and 18, in some periods, only group 17 transmits beacon frames, with the power of the transmitted beacon frames being 6 dB higher than the normal power, and the antenna combination is oriented to the left. In other periods, only group 18 transmits beacon frames, with the power of the transmitted beacon frames being the normal power, and the antenna combination is oriented to the right.

[0168] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 16 As shown, the communication device 1600 may include a processing module 1601 and a communication module 1602.

[0169] As a first example, the communication device 1600 can be used to implement the steps performed by the AP in any of the foregoing method embodiments. For example, the processing module 1601 is used to implement the processing-related steps performed by the AP in any of the foregoing method embodiments, and the communication module 1602 is used to implement the sending and / or receiving steps performed by the AP in any of the foregoing method embodiments.

[0170] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in yet another embodiment of this application. (See attached diagram.) Figure 17 As shown, the communication device 1700 includes a processor 1701 and a communication circuit 1702. The processor 1701 and the communication circuit 1702 are coupled to each other. It is understood that the communication circuit 1702 can be a transceiver or an input / output interface. Optionally, the communication device 1700 may also include a memory 1703 for storing instructions executed by the processor 1701, or storing input data required by the processor 1701 to execute instructions, or storing data generated after the processor 1701 executes instructions. It is understood that the memory 1703 can be located externally to the processor 1701, or internally to the processor 1701.

[0171] As an example, processor 1701 is used to implement the functions of the above-mentioned processing module 1701, and communication circuit 1702 is used to implement the functions of the above-mentioned communication module 1702.

[0172] The communication device 1700 can be an access point (AP) or a chip used in an AP.

[0173] It is understandable that when communication device 1700 is an access point (AP), communication circuit 1702 can be a transceiver. When communication device 2100 is a chip, communication circuit 1702 can be an input / output interface.

[0174] In some embodiments of this application, a computer program product is also provided, which, when run on a processor, can implement the methods implemented by the AP in any of the above embodiments.

[0175] In some embodiments of this application, a computer-readable storage medium is also provided, which contains computer instructions that, when executed on a processor, can implement the methods implemented by the AP in any of the above embodiments.

[0176] In some embodiments of this application, a communication system is also provided, which can implement the methods implemented by the AP in any of the above method embodiments.

[0177] It is understood that the processor in the embodiments of this application may be any of the following devices or all or part of the circuitry used for processing functions: a central processing unit (CPU), or other general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic devices, transistor logic devices, hardware components, or any combination thereof. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0178] The method steps or functions in the embodiments of this application can be implemented in hardware or by a processor executing software instructions. The software instructions can consist of corresponding software modules, which can be stored in random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, erasable programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory, registers, hard disks, portable hard disks, CD-ROMs, or any other form of storage medium known in the art. An exemplary storage medium is coupled to a processor, enabling the processor to read information from and write information to the storage medium. Of course, the storage medium can also be a component of the processor. The processor and storage medium can reside in an ASIC. Additionally, the ASIC can reside in a network device or terminal device. Alternatively, the processor and storage medium can exist as discrete components in the network device or terminal device.

[0179] The steps or functions in the above embodiments can be implemented, in whole or in part, by software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented using software, they can be implemented, in whole or in part, in the form of a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer programs or instructions. When the computer program or instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this application are executed, in whole or in part. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, a network device, a user equipment, or other programmable device. The computer program or instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transferred from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer program or instructions can be transferred from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via wired or wireless means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium that a computer can access or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available medium can be a magnetic medium, such as a floppy disk, hard disk, or magnetic tape; it can also be an optical medium, such as a digital video optical disc; or it can be a semiconductor medium, such as a solid-state drive.

[0180] In the various embodiments of this application, unless otherwise specified or in case of logical conflict, the terms and / or descriptions between different embodiments are consistent and can be referenced by each other. The technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments according to their inherent logical relationships.

[0181] It is understood that the various numerical designations used in the embodiments of this application are merely for descriptive convenience and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of this application. The order of the process numbers described above does not imply the order of execution; the execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to a first access point, the method includes: First information is obtained, which is used to indicate the first parameters for the first access point to send beacon frames. The first parameters include at least one of the following parameters: sequence number, transmission power, antenna selection, or beam selection. The first access point is one of a plurality of access points, which are networked in the same frequency. The plurality of access points include N access point groups, where N is an integer greater than 1. In the N access point groups, the first parameters of the beacon frames sent by access points in different access point groups are not equal in at least one time window. Send a beacon frame based on the first information.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first information is used to instruct the first access point to send a first parameter of the beacon frame, including: The first information is used to indicate the access point group to which the first access point belongs, wherein the access point group to which the first access point belongs has a preset association relationship with the first parameter.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first information includes the level of the first access point during the time synchronization process, and the level of the first access point has a preset association relationship with the access point group to which the first access point belongs.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The first parameter includes a sequence number, wherein different access point groups among the N access point groups send beacon frames with different sequence numbers in different time windows.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The first parameter includes at least one of transmit power, antenna selection, and beam selection. The N access point groups include S access point groups, where S is a positive integer less than or equal to N. Access points in different access point groups within the S access point groups transmit beacon frames with different values ​​for the first parameter in the first time window. Access points in different access point groups within the S access point groups transmit beacon frames with different values ​​for the first parameter in the second time window. Furthermore, access points in at least one access point group within the S access point groups transmit beacon frames with different values ​​for the first parameter in the first time window and the second time window.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The first parameter of the beacon frames sent by the access points in the different access point groups is equal in at least one other time window.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The acquisition of the first information includes: Receive the first information.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, In the N access point groups, the first parameters of the beacon frames sent by the access points within the same access point group are equal in at least one time window.

9. A communication device, characterized in that, It includes a processing module and a communication module, wherein the communication device is used to implement the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. A communication device, characterized in that, The device includes a processor coupled to a memory for storing program instructions, and the processor for executing the program instructions in the memory to implement the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 8.

11. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium includes instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 8 to be implemented.

12. A computer program product, characterized in that, The computer program product includes computer program code or instructions that, when executed, cause the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 8 to be implemented.

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