Channel access method of multi-link equipment and related device

Abstract

The invention relates to the field of wireless communication, for example, the method is applied to a wireless local area network supporting the 802.11 be standard, and particularly relates to a channel access method of multi-link equipment and a related device. The method comprises: when the length of a first PPDU sent by a first multi-link device on a first link is less than or equal to a first value, the first multi-link device does not start a media synchronization delay timer on a second link, and the first multi-link device cannot simultaneously transmit and receive on the first link and the second link. By adopting the embodiment of the invention, the channel access efficiency can be improved under the condition that the non-STR MLD is in the blind state / self-interference state.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application. The original application has the application number 202180065143.9 and the original application date is August 31, 2021. The entire contents of the original application are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202010924423.8, filed on September 4, 2020, entitled “Channel Access Method and Related Apparatus for Multi-Link Devices”, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This application relates to the field of wireless communication technology, and in particular to a channel access method and related apparatus for multi-link devices. Background Technology

[0004] With the development of wireless communication technology, more and more wireless communication devices support multi-link communication, such as communicating simultaneously on 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and 6GHz frequency bands, or communicating simultaneously on different channels within the same frequency band. Such wireless communication devices are usually called multi-link devices (MLDs). Obviously, multi-link devices can use multiple links for parallel communication, which greatly improves the transmission rate.

[0005] While multi-link devices can improve transmission rates through parallel communication across multiple links, when the frequency spacing between the multiple frequency bands supported by an extremely high throughput (EHT) multi-link device is close, transmitting a signal on one band can affect receiving a signal on another. For example, if an EHT multi-link device transmits on link 1, the small frequency spacing between link 1 and link 2 will cause channel interference on link 2, affecting channel access and information reception on link 2. Therefore, this device cannot independently perform simultaneous transmission and reception operations on multiple frequency bands to avoid mutual interference. Based on the current progress of the 802.11 TGbe standard group, EHT multi-link devices are defined to have both simultaneous transmitting and receiving (STR) and non-simultaneous transmitting and receiving (non-STR) capabilities.

[0006] When a non-STR MLD (Multi-Segment Digital Access Device) transmits on a link, it enters a blind period (or deaf period) because interference affects the clear channel assessment (CCA) on other links. A blind period means that no information can be detected on the channel. Therefore, how a non-STR MLD can access the channel on some links when it is in a blind period becomes a pressing issue. Summary of the Invention

[0007] This application provides a channel access method and related apparatus for multi-link devices, which can improve the efficiency of channel access when non-STRMLD is in a blind state / self-interference state.

[0008] The present application is described below from different aspects. It should be understood that the different implementation methods and beneficial effects described below can be referenced from each other.

[0009] In a first aspect, this application provides a channel access method for a multi-link device, the method comprising: when the length of a first PPDU transmitted by the first multi-link device on a first link is less than or equal to a first value, the first multi-link device does not start a media synchronization delay timer on a second link, wherein the first multi-link device cannot transmit and receive simultaneously on the first link and the second link.

[0010] The first multi-link device not activating the media synchronization delay timer on the second link includes: when the first multi-link device engages in channel contention on the second link, it sets the energy detection threshold used for idle channel assessment (CCA) to a first threshold of -62dBm; or, after the backoff counter on the second link backs off to 0, the first multi-link device is allowed to send frames other than RTS frames and MU-RTS frames.

[0011] This scheme improves the channel access efficiency or success rate of the first multi-link device on another link, or increases the channel access opportunity of the first multi-link device on another link, when the length of the PPDU transmitted on one link is less than or equal to a certain value, or when channel contention occurs on another link, or when the length of the PPDU transmitted on one link is less than or equal to a certain value, or when channel contention occurs on another link.

[0012] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the method further includes: a first multilink device receiving a first value. This first value may be carried in a beacon frame, or in an association response frame or a reassociation response frame.

[0013] Optionally, this first value can be carried in a multi-link element, a high-throughput operation element, or a newly defined element.

[0014] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the method further includes: when the length of the first PPDU is greater than the first value, the first multi-link device determines the initial value of the media synchronization delay timer corresponding to the length of the first PPDU, and starts the media synchronization delay timer on the second link with the initial value.

[0015] Optionally, the method further includes: a first multi-link device receiving first indication information, the first indication information being used to indicate the mapping relationship between the length of a physical layer protocol data unit (PPDU) and the initial value of a media synchronization delay timer.

[0016] This solution determines the initial value of the media synchronization delay timer based on the length of the first PPDU, making the setting of the media synchronization delay timer more flexible.

[0017] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation, the method further includes: when the length of the first PPDU is greater than the first value, the first multi-link device starts the media synchronization delay timer on the second link; during the time period of the media synchronization delay timer, if the first multi-link device engages in channel contention on the second link, the energy detection threshold used by CCA on the second link is set to the threshold value corresponding to the length of the first PPDU.

[0018] Optionally, before the first multi-link device transmits the first PPDU on the first link, the method further includes: the first multi-link device receiving second indication information, which is used to indicate the mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the energy detection threshold.

[0019] This scheme determines the energy detection threshold based on the length of the first PPDU, making the channel access mechanism on the second link more flexible and thus improving channel access efficiency.

[0020] Secondly, this application provides a first multi-link device or a chip in a first multi-link device, such as a Wi-Fi chip. The first multi-link device can be a non-STR MLD. The first multi-link device includes: a processing unit configured to not start a media synchronization delay timer on a second link when the length of a first PPDU transmitted by the first multi-link device on a first link is less than or equal to a first value, wherein the first multi-link device cannot transmit and receive simultaneously on the first link and the second link.

[0021] Specifically, the aforementioned processing unit is used to set the energy detection threshold used for the idle channel assessment (CCA) on the second link to a first threshold, which is -62dBm. Alternatively, the aforementioned first multi-link device further includes a transceiver unit, which is used to transmit frames other than RTS frames and MU-RTS frames after the backoff counter on the second link has backed up to 0.

[0022] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the aforementioned first multi-link device further includes a transceiver unit, which is also used to receive a first value. This first value can be carried in a beacon frame, or in an association response frame or a reassociation response frame.

[0023] Optionally, this first value can be carried in a multi-link element, a high-throughput operation element, or a newly defined element.

[0024] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the processing unit is further configured to: when the length of the first PPDU is greater than the first value, determine the initial value of the media synchronization delay timer corresponding to the length of the first PPDU, and start the media synchronization delay timer on the second link with the initial value.

[0025] Optionally, the first multi-link device further includes a transceiver unit, which is further configured to: receive first indication information, the first indication information being used to indicate the mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the initial value of the media synchronization delay timer.

[0026] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation, the above processing unit is further configured to: when the length of the first PPDU is greater than the first value, start the media synchronization delay timer on the second link; during the time period of the media synchronization delay timer, if the first multi-link device engages in channel contention on the second link, set the energy detection threshold used by CCA on the second link to the threshold value corresponding to the length of the first PPDU.

[0027] Optionally, the first multi-link device further includes a transceiver unit, which is further configured to: receive second indication information, the second indication information being used to indicate the mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the energy detection threshold.

[0028] Thirdly, this application provides a channel access method for a multi-link device, the method comprising: when the first frame transmitted by the first multi-link device on the first link is of type 1, the first multi-link device does not start a media synchronization delay timer on the second link, wherein the first multi-link device cannot transmit and receive simultaneously on the first link and the second link.

[0029] The first multi-link device not activating the media synchronization delay timer on the second link includes: when the first multi-link device engages in channel contention on the second link, it sets the energy detection threshold used for idle channel assessment (CCA) to a first threshold of -62dBm; or, after the backoff counter on the second link backs off to 0, the first multi-link device is allowed to send frames other than RTS frames and MU-RTS frames.

[0030] Optionally, when the first frame is any of the following frames, the type of the first frame is the first type: request to send (RTS) frame, multiple user RTS (MU-RTS) frame, power save-poll (PS-Poll) frame, CTS frame, buffer status report (BSR) frame, bandwidth query report (BQR) frame, null data packet (NDP) frame, acknowledge (ACK) frame, and block ACK (BA) frame.

[0031] Optionally, the first frame mentioned above is a request to send (RTS) frame or a multiple user request to send (MU-RTS) frame. If the first multi-link device does not receive a clear to send (CTS) frame on the first link within a preset time, the first multi-link device does not start the media synchronization delay timer on the second link.

[0032] Optionally, the first frame mentioned above is a power save-poll (PS-Poll) frame. If the first multi-link device does not receive a PS-Poll frame that allows transmission on the first link within a preset time, the first multi-link device will not start the media synchronization delay timer on the second link.

[0033] Optionally, the first frame mentioned above is a CTS frame. Before the first multi-link device transmits the first PPDU on the first link, the method further includes: the first multi-link device receiving an RTS frame or a MU-RTS frame on the first link.

[0034] Optionally, the first frame mentioned above is a Status Report (BSR) frame. Before the first multi-link device sends the first PPDU on the first link, the method further includes: the first multi-link device receiving a Status Report Polling (BSRP) trigger frame on the first link.

[0035] Optionally, the first frame mentioned above is a Bandwidth Query Report (BQR) frame. Before the first multi-link device sends the first PPDU on the first link, the method further includes: the first multi-link device receiving a Bandwidth Query Report Polling (BQRP) trigger frame on the first link.

[0036] Optionally, the first frame mentioned above is an empty data packet (NDP) frame. Before the first multi-link device transmits the first PPDU on the first link, the method further includes: the first multi-link device receiving a beamforming report polling (BFRP) trigger frame on the first link.

[0037] Optionally, the first frame mentioned above is an ACK frame or a BA frame. Before the first multi-link device sends the first PPDU on the first link, the first multi-link device receives a data frame or a management frame on the first link.

[0038] Fourthly, this application provides a first multi-link device or a chip in the first multi-link device, such as a Wi-Fi chip. The first multi-link device can be a non-STR MLD. The first multi-link device includes: a processing unit configured to, when the first frame transmitted by the first multi-link device on the first link is of type first, not enable a media synchronization delay timer on the second link, wherein the first multi-link device cannot simultaneously transmit and receive on the first link and the second link.

[0039] Specifically, the aforementioned processing unit is used to set the energy detection threshold used for the idle channel assessment (CCA) on the second link to a first threshold, which is -62dBm. Alternatively, the aforementioned first multi-link device further includes a transceiver unit, which is used to transmit frames other than RTS frames and MU-RTS frames after the backoff counter on the second link has backed up to 0.

[0040] Optionally, when the first frame is any of the following frames, the type of the first frame is the first type: request to send (RTS) frame, multiple user RTS (MU-RTS) frame, power save-poll (PS-Poll) frame, CTS frame, buffer status report (BSR) frame, bandwidth query report (BQR) frame, null data packet (NDP) frame, acknowledge (ACK) frame, and block ACK (BA) frame.

[0041] Optionally, the first frame mentioned above is an RTS frame or a MU-RTS frame. Specifically, the processing unit is used to: when the first multi-link device does not receive a clear-to-send (CTS) frame on the first link within a preset time, it does not start the media synchronization delay timer on the second link.

[0042] Optionally, the first frame mentioned above is a PS-Poll frame. Specifically, the processing unit is used to: when the first multi-link device does not receive a PS-Poll frame that allows transmission on the first link within a preset time, not start the media synchronization delay timer on the second link.

[0043] Optionally, the first frame mentioned above is a CTS frame. The first multi-link device further includes a transceiver unit, which is used to receive RTS frames or MU-RTS frames on the first link.

[0044] Optionally, the first PPDU mentioned above is a Status Report (BSR) frame. The first multi-link device further includes a transceiver unit, which is configured to: receive a Status Report Polling (BSRP) trigger frame on the first link.

[0045] Optionally, the first PPDU mentioned above is a Bandwidth Query Report (BQR) frame. The first multi-link device further includes a transceiver unit, which is configured to: receive a Bandwidth Query Report Polling (BQRP) trigger frame on the first link.

[0046] Optionally, the first PPDU mentioned above is an empty data packet (NDP) frame. The first multi-link device further includes a transceiver unit configured to: receive beamforming report polling (BFRP) trigger frames on the first link.

[0047] Optionally, the first PPDU is an ACK frame or a BA frame. The first multi-link device further includes a transceiver unit, which is used to receive data frames or management frames on the first link.

[0048] Fifthly, this application provides a method for determining the initial duration of a media synchronization delay timer. The method includes: a first multi-link device receiving first indication information, which indicates a mapping relationship between the length of a PPDU and the initial value (or initial duration) of the media synchronization delay timer; the first multi-link device determining the initial value of the media synchronization delay timer corresponding to the length of a first PPDU transmitted on a first link, the initial value being used to determine whether to start the media synchronization delay timer on a second link. The first multi-link device cannot simultaneously transmit and receive on the first link and the second link.

[0049] Optionally, the first multi-link device determines whether to enable the media synchronization delay timer on the second link based on the initial value of the media synchronization delay timer corresponding to the length of the first PPDU.

[0050] Optionally, if the initial value of the determined media synchronization delay timer is equal to 0, the first multi-link device does not enable the media synchronization delay timer on the second link. If the initial value of the determined media synchronization delay timer is equal to 0, the first multi-link device enables the media synchronization delay timer on the second link with that initial value.

[0051] In this context, the first multi-link device starts a mediumSyncDelay timer on the second link. This can be understood as (or described as): during the time the mediumSyncDelay timer is running, the first multi-link device can employ a more conservative channel access mechanism on the second link. This more conservative access mechanism includes, but is not limited to: 1) using a lower energy detection threshold (here referring to an ED threshold lower than -62dBm) to determine channel busyness; 2) sending RTS frames to probe channel availability.

[0052] In this scheme, different PPDU lengths / byte lengths correspond to different initial values ​​for the mediumSyncDelay timer, making the setting of the mediumSyncDelay timer more flexible and improving channel access efficiency.

[0053] Sixthly, this application provides a method for determining the initial duration of a media synchronization delay timer. The method includes: a second multi-link device generating and sending first indication information, the first indication information being used to indicate the mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the initial value (or initial duration) of the media synchronization delay timer.

[0054] In a seventh aspect, this application provides a first multi-link device or a chip within the first multi-link device, such as a Wi-Fi chip. The first multi-link device can be a non-STR MLD. The communication device includes: a transceiver unit for receiving first indication information, the first indication information indicating a mapping relationship between the length of a PPDU and an initial value of a media synchronization delay timer; and a processing unit for determining the initial value of a media synchronization delay timer corresponding to the length of a first PPDU transmitted on the first link. The communication device cannot transmit and receive simultaneously on the first link and the second link.

[0055] Optionally, the processing unit is further configured to determine whether to enable the media synchronization delay timer on the second link based on the initial value of the media synchronization delay timer corresponding to the length of the first PPDU.

[0056] Optionally, the above processing unit is specifically used to: if the initial value of the determined media synchronization delay timer is equal to 0, then the media synchronization delay timer is not started on the second link; if the initial value of the determined media synchronization delay timer is equal to 0, then the media synchronization delay timer is started on the second link.

[0057] Eighthly, this application provides a second multi-link device or a chip in a second multi-link device, such as a Wi-Fi chip. The second multi-link device may be an MLD of an STR. The communication device includes: a processing unit for generating first indication information, the first indication information being used to indicate a mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the initial value (or initial duration) of a media synchronization delay timer; and a transceiver unit for transmitting the first indication information.

[0058] Ninthly, this application provides a method for determining an energy detection threshold during CCA (Continuous Communication Action) processes. The method includes: a first multi-link device receiving second indication information, the second indication information indicating a mapping relationship between PPDU length and an energy detection threshold; the first multi-link device transmitting a first PPDU on a first link; the first multi-link device determining an energy detection threshold corresponding to the length of the first PPDU transmitted on the first link, the energy detection threshold being used to determine whether to activate the media synchronization delay timer on a second link. The first multi-link device cannot simultaneously transmit and receive on the first link and the second link.

[0059] Optionally, the first multi-link device determines whether to enable the media synchronization delay timer on the second link based on the energy detection threshold corresponding to the length of the first PPDU.

[0060] Optionally, if the determined energy detection threshold is equal to -62dBm, the first multi-link device does not enable the media synchronization delay timer on the second link. If the determined energy detection threshold is less than -62dBm, the first multi-link device enables the media synchronization delay timer on the second link.

[0061] In this scheme, different PPDU lengths / byte lengths correspond to different energy detection thresholds, making the channel access mechanism on the second link more flexible and improving channel access efficiency.

[0062] In a tenth aspect, this application provides a method for determining the energy detection threshold during CCA, the method comprising: a second multi-link device generating and sending second indication information, the second indication information being used to indicate the mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the energy detection threshold.

[0063] Eleventhly, this application provides a first multi-link device or a chip in the first multi-link device, such as a Wi-Fi chip. The first multi-link device can be a non-STR MLD. The communication device includes: a transceiver unit for receiving second indication information, the second indication information being used to indicate a mapping relationship between PPDU length and energy detection threshold; and a processing unit for determining an energy detection threshold corresponding to the length of a first PPDU transmitted on the first link, the energy detection threshold being used to determine whether to activate the media synchronization delay timer on the second link. The first multi-link device cannot transmit and receive simultaneously on the first link and the second link.

[0064] Optionally, the processing unit is further configured to determine whether to activate the media synchronization delay timer on the second link based on the energy detection threshold corresponding to the length of the first PPDU. The communication device cannot transmit and receive simultaneously on the first link and the second link.

[0065] Optionally, the above processing unit is specifically used to: if the determined energy detection threshold is equal to -62dBm, then the first multi-link device does not start the media synchronization delay timer on the second link; if the determined energy detection threshold is less than -62dBm, then the first multi-link device starts the media synchronization delay timer on the second link.

[0066] In a twelfth aspect, this application provides a second multi-link device or a chip within a second multi-link device, such as a Wi-Fi chip. The second multi-link device may be an MLD of an STR. The communication device includes: a processing unit for generating second indication information, the second indication information being used to indicate a mapping relationship between PPDU length and energy detection threshold; and a transceiver unit for transmitting the second indication information.

[0067] In a thirteenth aspect, this application provides a first multi-link device, including a processor. Optionally, it also includes a transceiver. The processor is configured to not start a media synchronization delay timer on a second link when the length of a first PPDU transmitted by the first multi-link device on a first link is less than or equal to a first value, wherein the first multi-link device cannot transmit and receive simultaneously on the first link and the second link.

[0068] In one possible design, the processor is configured such that when the first frame transmitted by the first multi-link device on the first link is of type 1, the first multi-link device does not enable the media synchronization delay timer on the second link, wherein the first multi-link device cannot transmit and receive simultaneously on the first link and the second link.

[0069] In one possible design, the transceiver receives first indication information indicating a mapping between the PPDU length and the initial value (or initial duration) of a media synchronization delay timer; the processor determines the initial value of the media synchronization delay timer corresponding to the length of the first PPDU transmitted on the first link. The communication device cannot transmit and receive simultaneously on the first link and the second link.

[0070] In one possible design, the transceiver receives second indication information indicating a mapping between PPDU length / byte length and an energy detection threshold. The processor determines an energy detection threshold corresponding to the length of a first PPDU transmitted on the first link, and this energy detection threshold determines whether to enable the media synchronization delay timer on the second link. The first multi-link device cannot transmit and receive simultaneously on the first link and the second link.

[0071] In a fourteenth aspect, this application provides a second multi-link device, including a processor and a transceiver. The processor is used to generate first indication information, which indicates a mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the initial value (or initial duration) of a media synchronization delay timer; the transceiver is used to transmit the first indication information.

[0072] In one possible design, the processor is used to generate second indication information indicating the mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the energy detection threshold; the transceiver is used to transmit the second indication information.

[0073] In a fifteenth aspect, this application provides a first multi-link device, which can exist in the form of a chip. The structure of the first multi-link device includes an input / output interface and a processing circuit. The input / output interface is used to receive code instructions and transmit them to the processing circuit. The processing circuit is used to not activate the media synchronization delay timer on the second link when the length of the first PPDU is less than or equal to a first value. The first multi-link device cannot transmit and receive simultaneously on the first link and the second link.

[0074] In one possible design, the input / output interface is used to receive code instructions and transmit them to the processing circuit. The processing circuit is used to ensure that when the first frame sent by the first multi-link device on the first link is of type 1, the first multi-link device does not start the media synchronization delay timer on the second link, wherein the first multi-link device cannot transmit and receive simultaneously on the first link and the second link.

[0075] In one possible design, the transceiver receives first indication information. The input / output interface receives the first indication information from the transceiver and sends it to the processing circuit for processing, obtaining a mapping relationship between the PPDU length indicated by the first indication information and the initial value (or initial duration) of the media synchronization delay timer. The processing circuit determines the initial value of the media synchronization delay timer corresponding to the length of the first PPDU transmitted on the first link. This initial value is used to determine whether to enable the media synchronization delay timer on the second link. The first multi-link device cannot transmit and receive simultaneously on the first link and the second link.

[0076] In one possible design, the transceiver receives second indication information. The input / output interface receives the second indication information from the transceiver and sends it to the processing circuit for processing, obtaining a mapping relationship between the PPDU length indicated by the second indication information and an energy detection threshold. The processing circuit determines the energy detection threshold corresponding to the length of the first PPDU transmitted on the first link. This energy detection threshold is used to determine whether to activate the media synchronization delay timer on the second link. The first multi-link device cannot transmit and receive simultaneously on the first link and the second link.

[0077] In a sixteenth aspect, this application provides a second multi-link device, which can exist in the form of a chip. The structure of the second multi-link device includes an input / output interface and a processing circuit. The input / output interface is used to receive code instructions and transmit them to the processing circuit. The processing circuit is used to generate first indication information, which indicates the mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the initial value (or initial duration) of the media synchronization delay timer. The input / output interface is used to send the first indication information to a transceiver, which is used to transmit the first indication information.

[0078] In one possible design, the input / output interface is used to receive code instructions and transmit them to the processing circuit, which generates second indication information to indicate the mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the energy detection threshold; the input / output interface is used to send the second indication information to a transceiver, which transmits the second indication information.

[0079] In a seventeenth aspect, this application provides a computer-readable storage medium storing instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the methods described in the first aspect, or the third aspect, or the fifth aspect, or the seventh aspect, or the ninth aspect, or the tenth aspect.

[0080] In an eighteenth aspect, this application provides a computer program product containing program instructions that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the methods described in the first aspect, or the third aspect, or the fifth aspect, or the seventh aspect, or the ninth aspect, or the tenth aspect.

[0081] By implementing the embodiments of this application, the efficiency of channel access can be improved when the non-STR MLD is in a blind state / self-interference state. Attached Figure Description

[0082] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below.

[0083] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of communication between a non-AP MLD and an AP MLD provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a wireless communication system provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 3a This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a multi-link device provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 3b This is another structural schematic diagram of the multi-link device provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 4 This is a schematic flowchart of a channel access method for multi-link devices provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 5 This is another schematic flowchart of the channel access method for multi-link devices provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 6a This application is a schematic diagram of the frame structure of a multi-link element provided in the embodiments; Figure 6b This application is a schematic diagram of the frame structure of the EHT operation element provided in the embodiments; Figure 6c This application is a schematic diagram of the frame structure of the non-STR MLD parameter set elements provided in the embodiments; Figure 7 This is a schematic flowchart of the method for determining the initial duration of the media synchronization delay timer provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the initial value of the media synchronization delay timer provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 9 This is a schematic flowchart of the energy detection threshold determination method in the CCA process provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the mapping relationship between PPDU length and energy detection threshold provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first multi-link device provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second multi-link device provided in the embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0084] The technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0085] To facilitate understanding of the channel access method for multi-link devices provided in the embodiments of this application, the system architecture and / or application scenarios of the channel access method for multi-link devices provided in the embodiments of this application will be described below. It is understood that the system architecture and / or application scenarios described in the embodiments of this application are for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application and do not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0086] This application provides a channel access method for non-STR MLDs, which can improve channel access efficiency when the non-STR MLD is in a blind / self-interference state. This multi-link device channel access method can be implemented by a communication device in a wireless communication system or by a chip or processor within that device. The communication device can be a wireless communication device that supports parallel transmission across multiple links; for example, it can be called a multi-link device or a multi-band device. Compared to communication devices that only support single-link transmission, multi-link devices have higher transmission efficiency and greater throughput.

[0087] A multi-link device includes one or more affiliated STAs. An affiliated STA is a logical site that can operate on a single link, frequency band, or channel. The affiliated STA can be an access point (AP) or a non-access point station (non-AP STA). For ease of description, this application refers to a multi-link device whose affiliated STA is an AP as a multi-link AP, multi-link AP device, or AP multi-link device (AP MLD), and a multi-link device whose affiliated STA is a non-AP STA as a multi-link non-AP, multi-link non-AP device, or non-AP multi-link device (non-APMLD).

[0088] Optionally, a multi-link device may include multiple logical sites, each operating on a single link, but multiple logical sites may operate on the same link.

[0089] Optionally, one or more STAs in a non-AP MLD can establish an association with one or more APs in an AP MLD before communicating. See also Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating communication between a non-AP MLD and an AP MLD provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 1 As shown, the AP MLD includes AP1, AP2, ..., APn; the non-AP MLD includes STA1, STA2, ..., STAN. AP MLDs and non-AP MLDs can communicate in parallel using links 1, 2, ..., n. STA1 in the non-AP MLD is associated with AP1 in the AP MLD, STA2 in the non-AP MLD is associated with AP2 in the AP MLD, STAN in the non-AP MLD is associated with APn in the AP MLD, and so on.

[0090] Optionally, multi-link devices can implement wireless communication by following the IEEE 802.11 series of protocols, such as extremely high throughput (EHT) sites or sites based on or compatible with IEEE 802.11be, to enable communication with other devices.

[0091] The channel access method for multi-link devices provided in this application can be applied to scenarios where one node communicates with one or more nodes; it can also be applied to single-user uplink / downlink communication scenarios, multi-user uplink / downlink communication scenarios; and it can also be applied to device-to-device (D2D) communication scenarios.

[0092] In this context, any of the aforementioned nodes can be either an AP MLD or a non-AP MLD. For example, a scenario where an AP MLD communicates with a non-AP MLD; or a scenario where an AP MLD communicates with another AP MLD; or a scenario where a non-AP MLD communicates with another non-AP MLD; this application does not limit this.

[0093] Optionally, in any of the above scenarios, at least one node has the ability to not send and receive simultaneously, i.e., it has non-STR capability.

[0094] Optionally, for ease of description, the following uses a scenario where an AP MLD communicates with a non-AP MLD as an example to illustrate the system architecture of this application. The channel access method for multi-link devices provided in this application can be applied to wireless local area networks (WLANs). See also Figure 2 , Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a wireless communication system provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 2 As shown, the wireless communication system includes at least one AP MLD and at least one non-AP MLD. The AP MLD is a multi-link device that provides services to the non-AP MLD, and the non-AP MLD can communicate with the AP MLD via multiple links. One AP in the AP MLD can communicate with one STA in the non-AP MLD via a single link. Understandably, Figure 2 The number of AP MLDs and non-AP MLDs is merely exemplary. Optionally, the wireless communication system may include at least one MLD with non-STR capability.

[0095] For example, a multi-link device (which can be either a non-AP MLD or an AP MLD) is a device with wireless communication capabilities. This device can be a complete device or a chip or processing system installed in a complete device. Devices with these chips or processing systems installed can implement the methods and functions of the embodiments of this application under the control of these chips or processing systems. For example, the non-AP multi-link device in the embodiments of this application has wireless transceiver capabilities, can support the 802.11 series protocols, and can communicate with AP multi-link devices or other non-AP multi-link devices. For example, a non-AP multi-link device is any user communication device that allows users to communicate with an AP and thus with a WLAN. For example, a non-AP multi-link device can be a user device that can connect to the Internet, such as a tablet computer, desktop computer, laptop computer, ultra-mobile personal computer (UMPC), handheld computer, netbook, personal digital assistant (PDA), or mobile phone, or an IoT node in the Internet of Things, or an in-vehicle communication device in the Internet of Vehicles; a non-AP multi-link device can also be the chip and processing system in the above-mentioned terminals. An AP multi-link device is a device that can provide services to non-AP multi-link devices and supports the 802.11 series of protocols. For example, an AP multi-link device can be a communication server, router, switch, bridge, or other communication entity; alternatively, it can include various forms of macro base stations, micro base stations, repeaters, etc. Furthermore, the AP multi-link device can also include the chips and processing systems within these various types of devices. The 802.11 protocol used can be one that supports or is compatible with 802.11be.

[0096] Understandably, multi-link devices can support high-speed, low-latency transmission. With the continuous evolution of wireless LAN application scenarios, multi-link devices can be applied to more scenarios, such as sensor nodes in smart cities (e.g., smart water meters, smart electricity meters, smart air quality monitoring nodes), smart devices in smart homes (e.g., smart cameras, projectors, displays, televisions, speakers, refrigerators, washing machines, etc.), nodes in the Internet of Things (IoT), entertainment terminals (e.g., AR, VR wearable devices), smart devices in smart offices (e.g., printers, projectors, etc.), vehicle-to-everything (V2X) devices, and some infrastructure in daily life scenarios (e.g., vending machines, supermarket self-service navigation kiosks, self-checkout machines, self-ordering machines, etc.). The specific form of the multi-link device in this application embodiment is not limited; it is merely an illustrative example.

[0097] Optional, see Figure 3a , Figure 3aThis is a schematic diagram of a multi-link device provided in an embodiment of this application. The IEEE 802.11 standard focuses on the 802.11 physical layer (PHY) and medium access control (MAC) layer portions of the multi-link device. For example... Figure 3a As shown, the multiple STAs in a multi-link device are independent of each other at the low MAC and PHY layers, and also independent at the high MAC layer. See also Figure 3b , Figure 3b This is another structural schematic diagram of the multi-link device provided in the embodiments of this application. For example... Figure 3b As shown, the multiple STAs included in the multi-link device are independent at the low MAC and PHY layers, but share the high MAC layer. Of course, a non-AP multi-link device can adopt a structure where the high MAC layers are independent or shared. Similarly, an AP multi-link device can adopt a structure where the high MAC layers are shared or independent. This application does not limit the internal structure diagram of the multi-link device. Figure 3a and Figure 3b This is merely an illustrative example. For instance, either the high MAC layer or the low MAC layer can be implemented by a processor in the chip system of a multi-link device, or they can be implemented by different processing modules in a single chip system.

[0098] For example, the multi-link device in this application embodiment can be a single-antenna device or a multi-antenna device. For instance, it can be a device with two or more antennas. This application embodiment does not limit the number of antennas included in the multi-link device. In the embodiments of this application, the multi-link device can allow services of the same access category (AC) to be transmitted on different links, and even allow the same data packets to be transmitted on different links; alternatively, it can disallow services of the same access category to be transmitted on different links, but allow services of different access categories to be transmitted on different links.

[0099] Multi-link devices can operate in one or more frequency bands, including sub 1 GHz, 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, 6 GHz, and high frequency 60 GHz.

[0100] For non-STR MLDs, when they transmit on one link (e.g., link 1), channel interference can cause them to misjudge the channel status on one or more other links (e.g., link 2), affecting their reception of Overlapped Basic Service Set (OBSS) frames on link 2. These OBSS frames are used for site updates of the network allocation vector (NAV). Therefore, before a non-STR MLD finishes transmitting on one link, it may miss OBSS frames on other links, thus missing NAV updates. This causes the non-STR MLD to compete for channel access on link 2 after completing transmission on link 1, resulting in data collisions between transmitted data and received OBSS frames on link 2. This is known as the blind problem or self-interference problem.

[0101] Understandingly, NAV can be viewed as a countdown timer that gradually decreases over time. When the countdown reaches 0, the medium is considered idle. Specifically, when a station receives a frame, if the receiving address of the frame is not that station, the station can update the NAV based on the duration field in the received frame. If the receiving address of the frame is that station, it means that station is the receiving station, and the NAV cannot be updated. Before updating the NAV, it can be determined whether the value of the duration field in the current frame is greater than the station's current NAV value. If it is greater, the NAV is updated; otherwise, if it is less than or equal to, the NAV is not updated. The NAV value is calculated from the end time of the received frame.

[0102] To address the blinding problem of non-STR MLDs, this application proposes a mediumSyncDelay mechanism. Specifically, after a non-STR MLD transmits on one line (e.g., link 1), a timer, the mediumSyncDelay timer, needs to be started on another link. During the time indicated by the mediumSyncDelay timer, the non-STR MLD employs a more conservative channel access mechanism on link 2. This more conservative channel access mechanism includes, but is not limited to: 1) using a lower energy detection (ED) threshold to determine channel busyness. Typically, -62dBm is used as the energy detection threshold. If the detected energy on the channel exceeds this threshold (i.e., exceeds -62dBm), the channel is considered busy. When a lower ED threshold than -62dBm is used, signals from further away in the CCA detection will cause the channel to be busy, thus making the channel access more conservative. The lower energy detection threshold can be -82dBm or -72dBm, etc. 2) A request-to-send (RTS) frame must be sent to probe channel availability. Optionally, the number of probes (or the number of RTS frames sent) can be only 1, or a limited number.

[0103] In the aforementioned media synchronization delay mechanism, regardless of the type of frame transmitted by the non-STR MLD on link 1, as long as transmission occurs on link 1, the non-STR MLD will adopt a more conservative channel access mechanism on link 2. However, the frames transmitted by the non-STR MLD on link 1 are diverse, including control frames, data frames, and management frames. Data frames can be long or short. Therefore, when the length of the frame transmitted by the non-STR MLD on link 1 is short, the time the non-STR MLD is in a blind state on link 2 is correspondingly shorter, and the possibility (or probability) of the non-STR MLD missing important information (such as NAV) on link 2 is lower. Therefore, in this media synchronization delay mechanism, as long as the non-STR MLD transmits on link 1, its channel access on link 2 must be restricted, resulting in low channel access efficiency, low channel access success rate, or reduced channel access opportunities on link 2.

[0104] In this application, "the non-STR MLD is in a blind state on a certain link" can also be understood as the STA working on that link in the non-STR MLD being in a blind state.

[0105] Understandably, the “blind state” mentioned in this application may also be referred to as a “self-interference state” or a “state of being unable to receive” or a “deaf state”, etc.

[0106] Understandably, “non-STR MLD” in this application may refer to an EHT MLD that cannot transmit and receive simultaneously.

[0107] Understandably, the terms "long frame" and "short frame" used in this application are distinguished by the length of time a frame occupies the air interface. For example, a "long frame" can refer to a frame whose air interface occupies a length of time greater than or equal to a preset value A, and a "short frame" can refer to a frame whose air interface occupies a length of time less than or equal to a preset value B. The preset values ​​A and B can be the same or different. For example, preset value A can be 1 ms (milliseconds), and preset value B can be 100 μs (microseconds).

[0108] This application provides a channel access method for multi-link devices, which can improve the channel access efficiency or channel access success rate of non-STR MLDs on these links, or increase the channel access opportunities of non-STR MLDs on these links when non-STR MLDs are in a blind state or self-interference state.

[0109] The technical solution provided in this application will be described in detail below with reference to more accompanying drawings.

[0110] Understandably, the first multi-link device in this application can be a non-STR MLD; the second multi-link device can be a STR MLD. For ease of subsequent description, this application uses a scenario where two MLDs communicate through two or more links as an example. The technical solution of this application is described in the following embodiments using two links as an example, but the technical solution of this application is also applicable to two MLDs supporting multiple links.

[0111] The technical solutions provided in this application are illustrated through Embodiments 1 to 4. Embodiment 1 illustrates how channel access is performed on another link when a specific type of frame is transmitted on one link. Embodiment 2 illustrates how to determine whether a more conservative channel access mechanism needs to be used on another link based on the length of the frames transmitted on one link. Embodiment 3 illustrates how the initial duration of the mediumSyncDelay timer is determined. Embodiment 4 illustrates how the ED threshold used in the CCA process is determined.

[0112] The following provides a detailed description of Embodiments 1 to 4. It is understood that the technical solutions described in Embodiments 1 to 4 of this application can be combined in any way to form new embodiments.

[0113] Example 1 Embodiment 1 of this application describes a method for determining whether a more conservative channel access mechanism needs to be used on another link based on the type of frames transmitted on one link.

[0114] See Figure 4 , Figure 4 This is a schematic flowchart of a channel access method for multi-link devices provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 4 As shown, the channel access method for this multi-link device includes, but is not limited to, the following steps: S101, when the first frame sent by the first multi-link device on the first link is of type 1, the first multi-link device does not start the media synchronization delay timer on the second link, and the first multi-link device cannot send and receive simultaneously on the first link and the second link.

[0115] Wherein, the first frame is of type 1 when it is any of the following: request to send frame, multiple user RTS frame, powersave-poll (PS-Poll) frame, clear to send (CTS) frame, buffer status report (BSR) frame, bandwidth query report (BQR) frame, null data packet (NDP) frame, acknowledge (ACK) frame, and block acknowledge (BA) frame.

[0116] In the first implementation, the first frame is an RTS frame or a MU-RTS frame. Specifically, if the first multi-link device transmits an RTS frame or a MU-RTS frame on the first link, and the first multi-link device does not receive a transmission permission frame within a preset time, then the first multi-link device does not start the mediumSyncDelay timer on the second link. The first multi-link device cannot transmit and receive simultaneously on the first link and the second link. In other words, if the first multi-link device transmits an RTS / MU-RTS frame on the first link and does not receive a CTS frame on the first link within a preset time (e.g., short-inter-frame space (SIFS) plus a slot time, plus physical layer reception delay, i.e., a SIFSTime + a Slot Time + a RxPHYStartDelay), then the first multi-link device does not start the mediumSyncDelay timer on the second link.

[0117] Specifically, the first multi-link device not activating the mediumSyncDelay timer on the second link can be understood as (or described as): when the first multi-link device engages in channel contention on the second link, the energy detection threshold used for CCA operation is the first threshold; or, after the first multi-link device backs off to 0 on the second link, it is allowed to directly transmit frames other than RTS and MU-RTS frames. In other words, after the first multi-link device backs off to 0 on the second link, it does not transmit RTS / MU-RTS frames for channel protection / channel availability probing. This first threshold can be -62dBm.

[0118] Understandably, the reason why the first multi-link device did not receive a CTS frame within the preset time (e.g., a SIFS Time + a Slot Time + aRxPHY Start Delay) may be: (a) the RTS frame sent by the first multi-link device conflicted with frames sent by other devices; (b) the receiver corresponding to the RTS frame sent by the first multi-link device failed to successfully receive the RTS frame; or (c) the receiver corresponding to the RTS frame sent by the first multi-link device was in a busy state.

[0119] Optionally, if the first multi-link device has started the mediumSyncDelay timer on the second link after sending the RTS / MU-RTS frame on the first link, and the first multi-link device does not receive a CTS frame within the preset time, then the first multi-link device turns off (or stops, or cancels) the mediumSyncDelay timer.

[0120] Optionally, if the first multi-link device receives a CTS frame within the preset time, it can activate the mediumSyncDelay timer. Activating the mediumSyncDelay timer on the second link can be understood as (or described as) the first multi-link device employing a more conservative channel access mechanism on the second link. That is, it uses a lower energy detection threshold (lower than -62dBm, such as -82dBm) to determine channel busyness and must send RTS / MU-RTS frames to probe channel availability. Optionally, the number of probes (or the number of RTS / MU-RTS frames sent) can only be one, or a limited number.

[0121] Optionally, in the first implementation described above, the "RTS frame or MU-RTS frame" can be replaced with the Power Save-Poll (PS-Poll) frame, and the "CTS frame" can be replaced with a data frame or an acknowledgment (ACK) frame. Therefore, the first implementation can also be described as follows: if the first multi-link device sends a PS-Poll frame on the first link, and the first multi-link device does not receive a data frame or acknowledgment frame within the preset time, then the first multi-link device does not start the media synchronization delay timer on the second link. Optionally, if the first multi-link device sends a PS-Poll frame on the first link, and the first multi-link device receives a data frame or acknowledgment frame within the preset time, then the first multi-link device can start the mediumSyncDelay timer.

[0122] As can be seen, in this embodiment of the application, if the non-STR MLD (i.e., the first multi-link device) transmits an RTS (or MU-RTS) on the first link but does not receive a CTS frame, the mediumSyncDelay timer is not activated on the second link. This allows the non-STR MLD to perform normal channel contention on the second link, meaning the energy detection threshold used for CCA operation is -62dBm, or RTS / CTS frames can be omitted for channel protection. This improves the channel access efficiency or channel access success rate of the non-STR MLD on the second link, or increases the channel access opportunity of the non-STR MLD on the second link.

[0123] In the second implementation, the first frame is a CTS frame. Specifically, if the first multi-link device receives an RTS frame or a MU-RTS frame on the first link and replies / transmits a CTS frame on the same first link, then the mediumSyncDelay timer is not started on the second link. The first multi-link device cannot simultaneously transmit and receive on the first and second links. In other words, the second multi-link device transmits an RTS frame or a MU-RTS frame on the first link. Correspondingly, the first multi-link device receives the RTS frame or MU-RTS frame on the first link and replies / transmits a CTS frame on the same first link. After transmitting the CTS frame on the first link, the first multi-link device does not start the mediumSyncDelay timer on the second link.

[0124] Specifically, the first multi-link device not activating the mediumSyncDelay timer on the second link can be understood as (or described as): when the first multi-link device engages in channel contention on the second link, the energy detection threshold used for CCA operation is the first threshold; or, after the first multi-link device backs off to 0 on the second link, it is allowed to directly transmit frames other than RTS and MU-RTS frames. In other words, after the first multi-link device backs off to 0 on the second link, it does not transmit RTS / MU-RTS frames for channel protection / channel availability probing. This first threshold can be -62dBm.

[0125] Optionally, if the first multi-link device has started the mediumSyncDelay timer on the second link after sending a CTS frame on the first link, then the first multi-link device turns off (or stops, or cancels) the mediumSyncDelay timer.

[0126] Optionally, the "RTS / CTS frame" in the second implementation above can be replaced with a buffer status report poll trigger (BSRP Trigger) frame / buffer status report (BSR) frame, or a bandwidth query report poll trigger (BQRPTrigger) frame / bandwidth query report (BQR) frame, or a beamforming report poll trigger (BFRP Trigger) frame / null data packet (NDP) frame, or a data frame / acknowledge (ACK) frame, or a management frame / ACK frame, or a data frame / block acknowledge (BA) frame. Therefore, step S201 above can also be described as follows: the first multi-link device receives a BSRP Trigger frame on the first link and replies / sends a BSR frame on the first link; or, the first multi-link device receives a BQRP Trigger frame on the first link and replies / sends a BQR frame on the first link; or, the first multi-link device receives a BFRP Trigger frame on the first link and replies / sends an NDP frame on the first link; or, the first multi-link device receives a data frame or management frame on the first link and replies / sends an ACK frame on the first link; or, the first multi-link device receives a data frame on the first link and replies / sends a BA frame on the first link. Correspondingly, the second implementation above can also be described as follows: after the first multi-link device sends a BSR frame, BQR frame, or NDP frame on the first link, it does not start a media synchronization delay timer on the second link.

[0127] Understandably, after the first multi-link device replies to / transmits a CTS frame, or NDP frame, or BSR frame, or BQR frame, or ACK frame, or BA frame on the first link, the first multi-link device is in a receiving state on the first link. Therefore, reception on the first link will not affect channel contention on the second link. The first multi-link device can engage in normal channel contention on the second link, i.e., the energy detection threshold used for CCA operation is -62dBm, or it can choose not to use RTS / CTS frames for channel protection.

[0128] As can be seen, in this embodiment of the application, after receiving an RTS (or MU-RTS) frame on the first link and replying with a CTS frame, the non-STR MLD (i.e., the first multi-link device) does not start the mediumSyncDelay timer on the second link, which can improve the channel access efficiency or channel access success rate of the non-STR MLD on the second link, or increase the channel access opportunity of the non-STR MLD on the second link.

[0129] In this embodiment of the application, when transmitting a specific type of frame, the media synchronization delay timer is not enabled on the second link. This can improve the channel access efficiency or channel access success rate of the non-STR MLD on these links, or increase the channel access opportunities of the non-STR MLD on these links, even when the non-STR MLD is in a blind state or self-interference state.

[0130] Example 2 This application describes how a non-STR MLD can access the channel on a second link when the length of the PPDU transmitted by the non-STR MLD on the first link is less than a preset value.

[0131] See Figure 5 , Figure 5 This is another schematic flowchart of the channel access method for multi-link devices provided in the embodiments of this application. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the channel access method for this multi-link device includes, but is not limited to, the following steps: S201, when the length of the first PPDU sent by the first multi-link device on the first link is less than or equal to the first value, the first multi-link device does not start the media synchronization delay timer on the second link, wherein the first multi-link device cannot send and receive simultaneously on the first link and the second link.

[0132] Specifically, the first multi-link device not activating the mediumSyncDelay timer on the second link can be understood as (or described as): when the first multi-link device engages in channel contention on the second link, the energy detection threshold used for CCA operation is the first threshold; or, after the first multi-link device backs off to 0 on the second link, it is allowed to directly transmit frames other than RTS and MU-RTS frames. In other words, after the first multi-link device backs off to 0 on the second link, it does not transmit RTS / MU-RTS frames for channel protection / channel availability probing. This first threshold can be -62dBm.

[0133] Optionally, if the first multi-link device has started the mediumSyncDelay timer on the second link after sending the first PPDU on the first link, then when it is determined that the length of the first PPDU is less than or equal to the first value, the first multi-link device closes (or stops, or cancels) the mediumSyncDelay timer.

[0134] Optionally, if the media synchronization delay timer on the second link is already enabled, and the length of the first PPDU sent by the first multi-link device on the first link is less than or equal to the first value, then the first multi-link device will not update the media synchronization delay timer on the second link.

[0135] Optionally, if the media synchronization delay timer on the second link is already enabled, and the length of the PPDU sent by the first multi-link device on the first link exceeds the first value, then the first multi-link device needs to update the media synchronization delay timer on the second link. Updating the media synchronization delay timer on the second link can be understood as updating it to its initial value when it was enabled, essentially re-enabling the media synchronization delay timer. Conversely, not updating the media synchronization delay timer on the second link can be understood as not updating it to its initial value when it was enabled.

[0136] Optionally, the first value mentioned above can be a fixed value specified in the protocol, such as 50us, 100us, or 200us.

[0137] Optionally, the first value can be 28us, which is the PPDU length when CTS and ACK frames are sent in the 24Mbps Non-HT PPDU format, or the PPDU length when CTS and ACK frames are sent in the 24Mbps Non-HT duplicate PPDU format.

[0138] Optionally, the first value can be 32us, which is the PPDU length when a BA (block ACK) frame with a bitmap length of 64 is transmitted in a 24Mbps Non-HT PPDU format or a Non-HT duplicate PPDU format.

[0139] Optionally, the first value can be 44us, which is the PPDU length when CTS and ACK frames are sent in 6Mbps Non-HT PPDU format, or the PPDU length when CTS and ACK frames are sent in 6Mbps Non-HT duplicate PPDU format.

[0140] Optionally, the first value can be 40us, which is the PPDU length when a BA frame with a bitmap length of 256 is transmitted in a 24Mbps Non-HT PPDU format or a Non-HT duplicate PPDU format.

[0141] Optionally, the first value can be 36us, which is the PPDU length when the QoS-Null frame is sent in 24Mbps Non-HT PPDU format or Non-HT duplicate PPDU format.

[0142] Optionally, the first value can be 68us, which is the PPDU length when a BA frame with a bitmap length of 64 is transmitted in a 6Mbps Non-HT PPDU format or a Non-HT duplicate PPDU format.

[0143] Optionally, the first value mentioned above can also be determined by the access point (or AP MLD) and sent to the site (i.e., non-APMLD). Specifically, before step S201, the channel access method for multi-link devices in this embodiment of the application may further include: step S202, whereby the second multi-link device sends indication information, which is used to indicate the first value. Correspondingly, the first multi-link device receives the indication information. The indication information can be carried in a beacon frame, or in an association response frame or a reassociation response frame. The first multi-link device mentioned above can be a non-STR MLD, specifically a non-STR non-AP MLD. The second multi-link device mentioned above can be a STR MLD, specifically a STR AP MLD.

[0144] One implementation involves placing the indication information within a multi-link element. See also... Figure 6a , Figure 6a This is a schematic diagram of the frame structure of a multi-link element provided in the embodiments of this application. For example... Figure 6aAs shown, this multi-link element may include an element ID field, a length field, an element ID extension field, a multi-link control field, a mediumSyncDelay timer threshold field, and optional subelements fields. The mediumSyncDelay timer threshold field is used to indicate the first value.

[0145] Alternatively, this instruction information can be located within the EHT operation element. See also... Figure 6b , Figure 6b This is a schematic diagram of the frame structure of the EHT operation element provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 6b As shown, the EHT operation element may include an element ID field, a length field, an element ID extension field, and a mediumSyncDelay timerthreshold field. The mediumSyncDelay timerthreshold field is used to indicate the first value.

[0146] Another implementation involves defining a new information unit to carry the indication information. This new information unit carries the configuration parameters of the non-STR MLD. Optionally, this new information unit can be called a non-STR MLD parameter set element. Understandably, this new information unit can have other names, and this application does not limit this. See also Figure 6c , Figure 6c This is a schematic diagram of the frame structure of the non-STR MLD parameter set elements provided in the embodiments of this application. For example... Figure 6c As shown, the non-STR MLD parameter set elements may include an element ID field, a length field, an element ID extension field, and a mediumSyncDelay timer threshold field. The mediumSyncDelay timer threshold field is used to indicate the first value.

[0147] Optionally, when the length of the first PPDU is greater than the first value, the first multi-link device can start a media synchronization delay timer on the second link. During the time the media synchronization delay timer is running, the first multi-link device can adopt a more conservative channel access mechanism on the second link. This more conservative channel access mechanism includes, but is not limited to: 1) using a lower energy detection threshold (here referring to an ED threshold lower than -62dBm) to determine if the channel is busy; 2) sending an RTS frame to probe channel availability. Optionally, the number of probes (or the number of RTS frames sent) can only be one, or a finite number. It is understood that when the length of the first PPDU is equal to the first value, the operation of the first multi-link device can be either not starting the media synchronization delay timer on the second link, or starting the media synchronization delay timer on the second link. This embodiment can set the operation of the first multi-link device when the length of the first PPDU is equal to the first value according to actual conditions.

[0148] Optionally, before activating the media synchronization delay timer on the second link, the first multi-link device may determine the initial value of the media synchronization delay timer corresponding to the length of the first PPDU, and then activate the media synchronization delay timer on the second link. It is understood that the initial value of the media synchronization delay timer activated by the first multi-link device on the second link is the initial value corresponding to the determined length of the first PPDU.

[0149] The standard protocol may specify the mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the initial value (or initial duration) of the media synchronization delay timer. Alternatively, before the first multi-link device sends the first PPDU on the first link, the second multi-link device sends a first indication message, and the first multi-link device receives the first indication message, which is used to indicate the mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the initial value (or initial duration) of the media synchronization delay timer.

[0150] Optionally, after or simultaneously with activating the media synchronization delay timer on the second link, the first multi-link device determines the energy detection threshold corresponding to the length of the first PPDU, and sets the energy detection threshold used for CCA operation to the threshold value corresponding to the length of the first PPDU when engaging in channel contention on the second link.

[0151] The standard protocol may specify the mapping relationship between PPDU length and energy detection threshold. Alternatively, before the first multi-link device sends the first PPDU on the first link, the second multi-link device sends a second indication message, which the first multi-link device receives. This second indication message is used to indicate the mapping relationship between PPDU length and energy detection threshold.

[0152] Understandably, the aforementioned first indication information and the aforementioned second indication information can be a single indication information, that is, a single indication information that simultaneously indicates the mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the initial value (or initial duration) of the media synchronization delay timer, and the mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the energy detection threshold. In other words, the aforementioned first indication information and the aforementioned second indication information are carried in one frame.

[0153] As can be seen, the embodiments of this application constrain non-STR MLDs to not start the mediumSyncDelay timer on another link after transmitting a short frame on one link, or to set the energy detection threshold used by CCA to -62dBm when channel contention occurs on another link, or to not use RTS frames to probe channel protection / channel availability on another link, thereby improving the channel access efficiency or channel access success rate of non-STR MLDs on another link, or increasing the channel access opportunities of non-STR MLDs on another link.

[0154] As an optional embodiment, the "length of the first PPDU" can be replaced with "the length of the medium access control (MAC) frame in the first PPDU (in bytes or bits)". Accordingly, step S301 can be replaced with: when the length of the MAC frame in the first PPDU sent by the first multi-link device on the first link is less than or equal to the second value, the first multi-link device does not start the media synchronization delay timer on the second link, wherein the first multi-link device cannot transmit and receive simultaneously on the first link and the second link.

[0155] As another optional embodiment, the channel access methods provided in Embodiments 1 and 2 above can also be applied to scenarios with a single link and multiple access channels. Taking two channels as an example, assuming the AP can use two channels for channel access, but can only complete access on one channel at a time, and cannot access two channels simultaneously. Specifically, the AP competes for channel contention on the primary channel, such as the first channel. When the primary channel is busy, the AP can switch to another channel (such as the second channel) to compete for channel contention, and after backing up to 0 on the second channel, it can transmit on the second channel.

[0156] For the aforementioned single-link, multi-access-channel scenario, this application proposes that when the AP transmits a short frame (e.g., RTS frame, CTS frame, block acknowledge (BA) frame, BSR frame, BQR frame, PS-Poll frame, NDP frame, etc.) on the second channel, the AP does not start a timer on the first channel. This timer can be a media synchronization delay timer. Optionally, this application further proposes that the AP transmits a first PPDU on the second channel; when the PPDU length is less than or equal to a first value, the AP does not start a media synchronization delay timer on the first channel.

[0157] Optionally, the AP not starting a timer on the first channel can be understood as (and described as follows): when the AP competes for channel space on the first channel, the energy detection threshold used for CCA operation is the first threshold; or, after the AP backs off to 0 on the first channel, it is allowed to directly send frames other than RTS and MU-RTS frames. In other words, after the AP backs off to 0 on the first channel, it does not send RTS / MU-RTS frames for channel protection / to probe channel availability. This first threshold can be -62dBm.

[0158] Understandably, the second channel in this application embodiment is equivalent to the first link in the aforementioned Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 2, and the first channel in this application embodiment is equivalent to the second link in the aforementioned Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 2.

[0159] As can be seen, the channel access method provided in this application embodiment can also be applied to scenarios with single links and multiple access channels, which expands the scope of the method and can also improve the channel access efficiency or channel access success rate of the AP on the first channel.

[0160] Example 3 Embodiment 3 of this application provides a method for determining the initial duration of a media synchronization delay timer. This method determines the initial duration of the media synchronization delay timer by using the length of frames transmitted on a first link (or a second channel).

[0161] See Figure 7 , Figure 7 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating the method for determining the initial duration of a media synchronization delay timer provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 7 As shown, the method for determining the initial duration of the media synchronization delay timer includes, but is not limited to, the following steps: S301, the second multi-link device sends first indication information, which is used to indicate the mapping relationship between PPDU length / byte length and the initial value (or initial duration) of the media synchronization delay timer.

[0162] Specifically, the second multi-link device can be an AP MLD, and the AP MLD has STR capability. The link through which the AP MLD sends the first indication information can be the first link or other links; this embodiment does not limit this. The aforementioned first indication information can be used to indicate the mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the initial value (or initial duration) of the media synchronization delay timer.

[0163] See one example. Figure 8 , Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the initial value of the media synchronization delay timer provided in an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 8 As shown, when the PPDU length is within the range of 0 to 100 microseconds (i.e., the interval [0, 100 microseconds], or the interval (0, 100 microseconds), or the interval (0, 100 microseconds], or the interval [0, 100 microseconds]), the initial value of the media synchronization delay timer is 0 ms. When the PPDU length is within the range of 100 microseconds to 1 ms (i.e., the interval [100 microseconds, 1000 microseconds], or the interval (100 microseconds, 1000 microseconds), or the interval (100 microseconds, 1000 microseconds], or the interval [100 microseconds, 1000 microseconds]), the initial value of the media synchronization delay timer is 3 ms. When the PPDU length is greater than or equal to 1 ms, the initial value of the media synchronization delay timer is 6 ms.

[0164] in, Figure 8 The mapping relationships shown can be summarized in Table 1 below.

[0165] Table 1

[0166] Understandable Figure 8 The mapping relationship shown in Table 1 is merely an example. In practical applications, the mapping relationship can be determined according to the actual application scenario. For example, the initial value of the media synchronization delay timer can be 0ms when the PPDU length is less than or equal to 50us; 1ms when the PPDU length is greater than or equal to 50us and less than or equal to 200us; 3ms when the PPDU length is greater than or equal to 200us and less than or equal to 500us; and 5ms when the PPDU length is greater than or equal to 500us. This application does not limit this aspect.

[0167] Optionally, the aforementioned first indication information may include arrays. For example, array (0, 100, 0) indicates that the initial value of the media synchronization delay timer is 0 ms when the PPDU length is in the range of 0 to 100 μs; array (100, 1000, 3) indicates that the initial value of the media synchronization delay timer is 3 ms when the PPDU length is in the range of 100 μs to 1 ms; array (1000, maximum PPDU length, 6) indicates that the initial value of the media synchronization delay timer is 6 ms when the PPDU length is in the range of 1 ms to the maximum PPDU length. The maximum PPDU length is specified by the standard protocol.

[0168] Optionally, the aforementioned first indication information may include two fields: the first field is used to determine N intervals, and the second field is used to indicate the initial value of the media synchronization delay timer corresponding to each of the N intervals.

[0169] The first field can include N+1 subfields, whose values ​​are monotonically increasing. The values ​​of two adjacent subfields define a range, thus the N+1 subfields can define N ranges. For example, the first subfield might have a value of 0; the N+1th subfield might have a value of the maximum PPDU length, or a value larger than the maximum PPDU length, such as 6ms. Optionally, the first subfield (or the N+1th subfield) may not be included in the first field.

[0170] The second field includes N subfields, and the value of each subfield represents the initial value of the media synchronization delay timer corresponding to an interval.

[0171] S302, the first multi-link device receives the first indication information.

[0172] S303, the first multi-link device determines the initial value of the media synchronization delay timer corresponding to the length of the first PPDU transmitted on the first link. This initial value is used to determine whether to start the media synchronization delay timer on the second link. The first multi-link device cannot transmit and receive simultaneously on the first link and the second link.

[0173] Specifically, the first multi-link device can be a non-AP MLD, and the non-AP MLD has non-STR capability. The first multi-link device can determine the initial value (or initial duration) of the media synchronization delay timer corresponding to the PPDU length based on the mapping relationship between the PPDU length indicated by the first indication information and the initial value (or initial duration) of the media synchronization delay timer, and the PPDU length of the first PPDU. For example, as shown in Table 1 above, assuming the length of the first PPDU is 200µs, the initial value (or initial duration) of the media synchronization delay timer is 3ms.

[0174] Optionally, the first multi-link device determines whether to enable the media synchronization delay timer on the second link based on the initial value (or initial duration) of the media synchronization delay timer corresponding to the length of the first PPDU.

[0175] Specifically, if the initial value (or initial duration) of the aforementioned media synchronization delay timer is equal to 0, the first multi-link device does not activate the media synchronization delay timer on the second link. If the initial value (or initial duration) of the media synchronization delay timer is greater than 0, the first multi-link device activates the media synchronization delay timer on the second link, and the initial value / initial duration of the media synchronization delay timer is the value determined in step S404 above.

[0176] In this scenario, the first multi-link device starts a mediumSyncDelay timer on the second link. This can be understood as (or described as): during the time the mediumSyncDelay timer is running, the first multi-link device can employ a more conservative channel access mechanism on the second link. This more conservative access mechanism includes, but is not limited to: 1) using a lower energy detection threshold (here referring to an ED threshold lower than -62dBm) to determine channel busyness; 2) sending RTS frames to probe channel availability. Optionally, the number of probes (or the number of RTS frames sent) can only be one, or a limited number.

[0177] The first multi-link device not activating the mediumSyncDelay timer on the second link can be understood as (or described as): when the first multi-link device engages in channel contention on the second link, the energy detection threshold used for CCA operation is the first threshold; or, after the first multi-link device backs off to 0 on the second link, it is allowed to directly transmit frames other than RTS and MU-RTS frames. This first threshold can be -62dBm.

[0178] Understandably, the method for determining the initial duration of the media synchronization delay timer provided in this application embodiment can also be applied to scenarios with a single link and multiple access channels. In the single-link, multiple access channel scenario, the first channel is equivalent to the aforementioned second link, and the second channel is equivalent to the aforementioned first link; further details will not be elaborated here.

[0179] As can be seen, this embodiment of the application uses first indication information to indicate the mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the initial value (or initial duration) of the media synchronization delay timer. This allows the first multi-link device to determine the initial value of the media synchronization delay timer corresponding to the length of the first PPDU based on this mapping relationship and the length of the first PPDU transmitted on the first link. When the initial value is equal to 0, the mediumSyncDelay timer is not activated on the second link; when the initial value is greater than 0, the mediumSyncDelay timer is activated on the second link. Different PPDU lengths correspond to different initial values ​​for the mediumSyncDelay timer, making the setting of the mediumSyncDelay timer more flexible and improving channel access efficiency.

[0180] As an optional embodiment, the mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the initial value (or initial duration) of the media synchronization delay timer can be specified in a standard protocol. When this mapping relationship is specified in a standard protocol, Figure 7 The method for determining the initial duration of the media synchronization delay timer shown may exclude steps S301 and S302. That is, the method for determining the initial duration of the media synchronization delay timer may include step S303.

[0181] Example 4 Embodiment 4 of this application provides a method for determining the energy detection threshold during CCA. This method determines the ED threshold used during CCA backoff on the second link during the mediumSyncDelay period by using the length of the frame transmitted on the first link (or the second channel).

[0182] See Figure 9 , Figure 9 This is a schematic flowchart of the energy detection threshold determination method during the CCA process provided in this application embodiment. Figure 9 As shown, the method for determining the energy detection threshold during the CCA process includes, but is not limited to, the following steps: S401, the second multi-link device sends a second indication information, which is used to indicate the mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the energy detection threshold.

[0183] Specifically, the second multi-link device can be an AP MLD, and this AP MLD has STR capability. The link through which the AP MLD sends the second indication information can be the first link or other links; this embodiment does not limit this. The aforementioned second indication information can be used to indicate the mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the energy detection threshold.

[0184] See one example. Figure 10 , Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the mapping relationship between PPDU length and energy detection threshold provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 10 As shown, when the PPDU length is within the range of 0 to 100 μs (microseconds) (i.e., the interval [0, 100 μs], or the interval (0, 100 μs), or the interval (0, 100 μs], or the interval [0, 100 μs)), the energy detection threshold is -62 dBm. When the PPDU length is within the range of 100 μs to 1 ms (i.e., the interval [100 μs, 1000 μs], or the interval (100 μs, 1000 μs), or the interval (100 μs, 1000 μs], or the interval [100 μs, 1000 μs)), the energy detection threshold is -72 dBm. When the PPDU length is greater than or equal to 1 ms, the energy detection threshold is -82 dBm.

[0185] in, Figure 10 The mapping relationships shown can be summarized in Table 2 below.

[0186] Table 2

[0187] Understandable Figure 10 The mapping relationship shown in Table 2 is merely an example. In practical applications, the mapping relationship can be determined according to the actual application scenario. For example, the energy detection threshold could be -62 dBm when the PPDU length is less than or equal to 50 μs; -67 dBm when the PPDU length is greater than or equal to 50 μs and less than or equal to 200 μs; -72 dBm when the PPDU length is greater than or equal to 200 μs and less than or equal to 500 μs; and -82 dBm when the PPDU length is greater than or equal to 500 μs. This application does not limit this specific approach.

[0188] Optionally, the second indication information mentioned above may include arrays. For example, array (0, 100, -62) indicates that the energy detection threshold is -62dBm when the PPDU length is in the range of 0 to 100µs; array (100, 1000, -72) indicates that the energy detection threshold is -72dBm when the PPDU length is in the range of 100µs to 1ms; array (1000, maximum PPDU length, -82) indicates that the energy detection threshold is -62dBm when the PPDU length is in the range of 1ms to the maximum PPDU length. The maximum PPDU length is specified by the standard protocol.

[0189] Optionally, the second indication information mentioned above may include two fields: the first field is used to determine N intervals, and the second field is used to indicate the energy detection threshold corresponding to each of the N intervals.

[0190] The first field can include N+1 subfields, whose values ​​are monotonically increasing. The values ​​of two adjacent subfields define a range, thus the N+1 subfields can define N ranges. For example, the first subfield might have a value of 0; the N+1th subfield might have a value of the maximum PPDU length, or a value larger than the maximum PPDU length, such as 6ms. Optionally, the first subfield (or the N+1th subfield) may not be included in the first field.

[0191] The second field includes N subfields, and the value of each subfield represents the energy detection threshold corresponding to an interval.

[0192] S402, the first multi-link device receives the second indication information.

[0193] S403, the first multi-link device determines the energy detection threshold corresponding to the length of the first PPDU based on the length of the first PPDU sent on the first link. The energy detection threshold is used to determine whether the media synchronization delay timer is enabled on the second link.

[0194] Specifically, the first multi-link device can be a non-AP MLD, and the non-AP MLD has non-STR capability. The first multi-link device can determine the energy detection threshold corresponding to the length of the first PPDU based on the mapping relationship between the PPDU length indicated by the second indication information and the energy detection threshold, and the length of the first PPDU. For example, the mapping relationship is shown in Table 2 above. Assuming the length of the first PPDU is 200µs, the energy detection threshold is -72dBm.

[0195] Optionally, the first multi-link device determines whether to enable the media synchronization delay timer on the second link based on the energy detection threshold corresponding to the length of the first PPDU. Specifically, if the energy detection threshold determined in step S403 is equal to -62dBm, the first multi-link device does not enable the media synchronization delay timer on the second link. If the energy detection threshold determined in step S403 is less than -62dBm, the first multi-link device enables the media synchronization delay timer on the second link. If the first multi-link device enables the media synchronization delay timer on the second link, it indicates that the second link is in the mediumSyncDelay period. When the first multi-link device engages in channel contention on the second link, it sets the energy detection threshold used by CCA to the energy detection threshold corresponding to the length of the first PPDU (i.e., the energy detection threshold determined in step S504).

[0196] In this scenario, the first multi-link device starts a mediumSyncDelay timer on the second link. This can be understood as (or described as): during the mediumSyncDelay period, the first multi-link device can employ a more conservative channel access mechanism on the second link. This more conservative access mechanism includes, but is not limited to: 1) using a lower energy detection threshold (here referring to an ED threshold lower than -62dBm) to determine channel busyness; 2) sending RTS frames to probe channel availability. Optionally, the number of probes (or the number of RTS frames sent) can only be one, or a limited number.

[0197] The first multi-link device not activating the mediumSyncDelay timer on the second link can be understood as (or described as): when the first multi-link device engages in channel contention on the second link, the energy detection threshold used for CCA operation is the first threshold; or, after the first multi-link device backs off to 0 on the second link, it is allowed to directly transmit frames other than RTS and MU-RTS frames. This first threshold can be -62dBm.

[0198] Understandably, the energy detection threshold determination method provided in this application's embodiments during the CCA process can also be applied to scenarios with a single link and multiple access channels. In the single-link, multiple access channel scenario, the first channel is equivalent to the aforementioned second link, and the second channel is equivalent to the aforementioned first link; further details will not be elaborated here.

[0199] As can be seen, this embodiment of the application uses second indication information to indicate the mapping relationship between PPDU length and energy detection threshold. This allows the first multi-link device to determine the energy detection threshold corresponding to the length of the first PPDU based on this mapping relationship and the length of the first PPDU transmitted on the first link. When the energy detection threshold is equal to -62dBm, the mediumSyncDelay timer is not activated on the second link; when the energy detection threshold is less than -62dBm, the mediumSyncDelay timer is activated on the second link. Different PPDU lengths correspond to different energy detection thresholds, making the channel access mechanism on the second link more flexible and improving channel access efficiency.

[0200] As an optional embodiment, the mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the energy detection threshold can be specified in a standard protocol. When this mapping relationship is specified in a standard protocol, Figure 9 The energy detection threshold determination method in the CCA process shown may exclude steps S401 and S402. That is, the energy detection threshold determination method in the CCA process may include step S403.

[0201] As another optional embodiment, the first indication information in Embodiment 3 and the second indication information in Embodiment 4 can be a single indication information, or the first and second indication information can be carried in the same frame. Therefore, Embodiment 3 and Embodiment 4 can be combined into one embodiment. Specifically: the second multi-link device sends indication information, which is used to indicate the mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the initial value (or initial duration) of the media synchronization delay timer, and the mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the energy detection threshold; the first multi-link device receives the indication information; the first multi-link device sends a first PPDU on the first link; the first multi-link device determines the initial value of the media synchronization delay timer corresponding to the length of the first PPDU and the energy detection threshold corresponding to the length of the first PPDU based on the length of the first PPDU. Optionally, the first multi-link device can also determine whether to enable the media synchronization delay timer on the second link based on the energy detection threshold corresponding to the length of the first PPDU or the initial value of the media synchronization delay timer corresponding to the length of the first PPDU.

[0202] The foregoing details the method provided in this application. In order to facilitate better implementation of the above-described solutions in the embodiments of this application, the embodiments of this application also provide corresponding devices or equipment.

[0203] This application embodiment can divide the communication device into functional modules according to the above method example. For example, each function can be divided into its own functional module, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing module. The integrated module can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional module. It should be noted that the module division in this application embodiment is illustrative and only represents one logical functional division. In actual implementation, there may be other division methods.

[0204] In the case of using integrated units, see Figure 11 , Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first multi-link device provided in an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 11 As shown, the first multi-link device includes a transceiver unit 11 and a processing unit 12.

[0205] In one design, the processing unit 12 is configured to not start the media synchronization delay timer on the second link when the length of the first PPDU sent by the first multi-link device on the first link is less than or equal to a first value, wherein the first multi-link device cannot send and receive simultaneously on the first link and the second link.

[0206] Specifically, the processing unit 12 is used to set the energy detection threshold used for CCA operation to a first threshold when channel contention occurs on the second link. Alternatively, the transceiver unit 11 is used to transmit frames other than RTS and MU-RTS frames after backoff to 0 on the second link. The first threshold can be -62dBm.

[0207] It should be understood that the first multi-link device in this design can perform the aforementioned embodiment two, and the above-mentioned operations or functions of each unit in the first multi-link device are respectively to realize the corresponding operations of the first multi-link device in the aforementioned embodiment two. For the sake of simplicity, they will not be described in detail here.

[0208] In one design, the processing unit 12 is configured to not enable the media synchronization delay timer on the second link when the first frame sent by the first multi-link device on the first link is of type 1, wherein the first multi-link device cannot send and receive simultaneously on the first link and the second link.

[0209] Specifically, the processing unit 12 is used to set the energy detection threshold used for CCA operation to a first threshold when channel contention occurs on the second link. Alternatively, the transceiver unit 11 is also used to transmit frames other than RTS and MU-RTS frames after backoff to 0 on the second link. The first threshold can be -62dBm.

[0210] It should be understood that the first multi-link device in this design can perform the aforementioned embodiment one, and the above-mentioned operations or functions of each unit in the first multi-link device are respectively to realize the corresponding operations of the first multi-link device in the aforementioned embodiment one. For the sake of brevity, they will not be described in detail here.

[0211] In one design, a transceiver unit 11 is used to receive first indication information, which indicates the mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the initial value of a media synchronization delay timer; a processing unit 12 is used to determine the initial value of a media synchronization delay timer corresponding to the length of a first PPDU transmitted on a first link, the initial value being used to determine whether to enable the media synchronization delay timer on a second link. The first multi-link device cannot transmit and receive simultaneously on the first link and the second link.

[0212] Optionally, the processing unit 12 is further configured to determine whether to enable the media synchronization delay timer on the second link based on the initial value of the media synchronization delay timer corresponding to the length of the first PPDU.

[0213] Optionally, the processing unit 12 is specifically used to: if the initial value of the determined media synchronization delay timer is equal to 0, then the media synchronization delay timer is not started on the second link; if the initial value of the determined media synchronization delay timer is equal to 0, then the media synchronization delay timer is started on the second link.

[0214] It should be understood that the first multi-link device in this design can perform the aforementioned embodiment three, and the above-mentioned operations or functions of each unit in the first multi-link device are respectively to realize the corresponding operations of the first multi-link device in the aforementioned embodiment three. For the sake of brevity, they will not be described in detail here.

[0215] In one design, a transceiver unit 11 is used to receive second indication information, which indicates the mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the energy detection threshold; a processing unit 12 is used to determine the initial value of a media synchronization delay timer corresponding to the length of a first PPDU transmitted on the first link. The communication device cannot transmit and receive simultaneously on the first link and the second link.

[0216] Optionally, the processing unit 12 is further configured to determine whether to enable the media synchronization delay timer on the second link based on the energy detection threshold corresponding to the length of the first PPDU.

[0217] Optionally, the processing unit 12 is specifically configured to: if the determined energy detection threshold is equal to -62dBm, then the first multi-link device does not start the media synchronization delay timer on the second link; if the determined energy detection threshold is less than -62dBm, then the first multi-link device starts the media synchronization delay timer on the second link.

[0218] It should be understood that the first multi-link device in this design can perform the aforementioned embodiment four, and the above-mentioned operations or functions of each unit in the first multi-link device are respectively to realize the corresponding operations of the first multi-link device in the aforementioned embodiment four. For the sake of brevity, they will not be described in detail here.

[0219] See Figure 12 , Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second multi-link device provided in an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 12 As shown, the second multi-link device includes a processing unit 21 and a transceiver unit 22.

[0220] In one design, a processing unit 21 is used to generate first indication information, which indicates the mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the initial value (or initial duration) of the media synchronization delay timer; a transceiver unit 22 is used to send the first indication information.

[0221] It should be understood that the second multi-link device in this design can perform the aforementioned embodiment three, and the above-mentioned operations or functions of each unit in the second multi-link device are respectively to realize the corresponding operations of the second multi-link device in the aforementioned embodiment three. For the sake of brevity, they will not be described in detail here.

[0222] In another design, processing unit 21 is used to generate second indication information, which indicates the mapping relationship between PPDU length and energy detection threshold; transceiver unit 22 is used to send the second indication information.

[0223] It should be understood that the second multi-link device in this design can perform the aforementioned embodiment four, and the above-mentioned operations or functions of each unit in the second multi-link device are respectively to realize the corresponding operations of the second multi-link device in the aforementioned embodiment four. For the sake of brevity, they will not be described in detail here.

[0224] The first multi-link device and the second multi-link device according to embodiments of this application have been described above. The following describes possible product forms of the first multi-link device and the second multi-link device. It should be understood that any device possessing the above-described... Figure 11 Any product of any form that possesses the functions of the first multi-link device, as long as it has the above-mentioned features. Figure 12Any form of the product that performs the functions of the second multi-link device described herein falls within the protection scope of the embodiments of this application. It should also be understood that the following description is merely illustrative and does not limit the product forms of the first and second multi-link devices in the embodiments of this application to these examples.

[0225] As a possible product form, the first multi-link device and the second multi-link device described in the embodiments of this application can be implemented by a general bus architecture.

[0226] The first multi-link device includes a processor and a transceiver that communicates internally with the processor.

[0227] In one design, the processor is configured to not activate the media synchronization delay timer on the second link when the length of the first PPDU transmitted by the first multi-link device on the first link is less than or equal to a first value, wherein the first multi-link device cannot transmit and receive simultaneously on the first link and the second link. Optionally, the transceiver is configured to transmit the first PPDU on the first link; In one design, the processor is configured to not enable a media synchronization delay timer on a second link when the first frame sent by the first multi-link device on the first link is of type 1, wherein the first multi-link device cannot transmit and receive simultaneously on the first link and the second link.

[0228] In one design, the transceiver receives first indication information indicating a mapping between the PPDU length and the initial value of a media synchronization delay timer. The processor determines the initial value of the media synchronization delay timer corresponding to the length of the first PPDU transmitted on the first link. This initial value is used to determine whether the media synchronization delay timer should be enabled on the second link. The first multi-link device cannot transmit and receive simultaneously on the first link and the second link.

[0229] In one design, the transceiver receives second indication information indicating a mapping between PPDU length / byte length and an energy detection threshold; the processor determines the initial value of a media synchronization delay timer corresponding to the length of a first PPDU transmitted on the first link. The communication device cannot transmit and receive simultaneously on the first link and the second link.

[0230] The second multi-link device includes a processor and a transceiver that communicates internally with the processor.

[0231] In one design, the processor generates first indication information indicating a mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the initial value (or initial duration) of the media synchronization delay timer; the transceiver transmits the first indication information.

[0232] In another design, the processor generates a second indication information that indicates the mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the energy detection threshold; the transceiver transmits the second indication information.

[0233] As a possible product form, the first multi-link device and the second multi-link device described in the embodiments of this application can be implemented by a chip.

[0234] The chip that implements the first multi-link device includes a processing circuit and an input / output interface that is internally connected and communicates with the processing circuit.

[0235] In one design, the input / output interface is used to receive code instructions and transmit them to the processing circuit. The processing circuit is used to not start the media synchronization delay timer on the second link when the length of the first PPDU is less than or equal to a first value, wherein the first multi-link device cannot transmit and receive simultaneously on the first link and the second link.

[0236] In one design, the input / output interface is used to receive code instructions and transmit them to the processing circuit. The processing circuit is used to prevent the first multi-link device from starting a media synchronization delay timer on the second link when the type of the first frame sent by the first multi-link device on the first link is a first type. The first multi-link device cannot send and receive simultaneously on the first link and the second link.

[0237] In one design, a transceiver receives first indication information. An input / output interface receives the first indication information from the transceiver and sends it to a processing circuit for processing. The processing circuit obtains a mapping relationship between the PPDU length indicated by the first indication information and the initial value (or initial duration) of a media synchronization delay timer. The processing circuit determines the initial value of the media synchronization delay timer corresponding to the length of the first PPDU transmitted on the first link. This initial value is used to determine whether to enable the media synchronization delay timer on the second link. The first multi-link device cannot transmit and receive simultaneously on the first link and the second link.

[0238] In one design, a transceiver receives second indication information. An input / output interface receives the second indication information from the transceiver and sends it to a processing circuit for processing, obtaining a mapping relationship between the PPDU length indicated by the second indication information and an energy detection threshold. The processing circuit determines the energy detection threshold corresponding to the length of the first PPDU transmitted on the first link. This energy detection threshold is used to determine whether to activate the media synchronization delay timer on the second link. The first multi-link device cannot transmit and receive simultaneously on the first link and the second link.

[0239] The chip that implements the second multi-link device includes a processing circuit and an input / output interface that is internally connected and communicates with the processing circuit.

[0240] In one design, the input / output interface is used to receive code instructions and transmit them to the processing circuit. The processing circuit is used to generate first indication information, which indicates the mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the initial value (or initial duration) of the media synchronization delay timer. The input / output interface is used to send the first indication information to the transceiver, which is used to send the first indication information.

[0241] In another design, the input / output interface is used to receive code instructions and transmit them to the processing circuit, which generates second indication information to indicate the mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the energy detection threshold; the input / output interface is used to send the second indication information to the transceiver, which transmits the second indication information.

[0242] As a possible product form, the first multi-link device and the second multi-link device described in the embodiments of this application can also be implemented using the following: one or more FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays), PLDs (Programmable Logic Devices), controllers, state machines, gate logic, discrete hardware components, any other suitable circuits, or any combination of circuits capable of performing the various functions described throughout this application.

[0243] It should be understood that the communication devices of the various product forms described above have any of the functions of the first multi-link device or the second multi-link device in the above method embodiments, which will not be elaborated here.

[0244] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the methods in any of the foregoing embodiments.

[0245] This application also provides a computer program product that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the methods in any of the foregoing embodiments.

[0246] This application also provides a communication device, which can exist in the form of a chip. The device includes a processor and an interface circuit. The processor is used to communicate with other devices through a receiving circuit, so that the device can execute the method in any of the foregoing embodiments.

[0247] The steps of the methods or algorithms described in 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 (RAM), flash memory, erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), 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. Alternatively, the ASIC can reside in a core network interface device. Of course, the processor and storage medium can also exist as discrete components in the core network interface device.

[0248] Those skilled in the art will recognize that, in one or more of the examples above, the functions described in this application can be implemented using hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented in software, these functions can be stored in a computer-readable medium or transmitted as one or more instructions or code on a computer-readable medium. Computer-readable media include computer-readable storage media and communication media, wherein communication media include any medium that facilitates the transmission of a computer program from one place to another. Storage media can be any available medium accessible to a general-purpose or special-purpose computer.

[0249] The specific embodiments described above further illustrate the purpose, technical solution, and beneficial effects of this application. It should be understood that the above description is only a specific embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made on the basis of the technical solution of this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application.

Claims

1. A channel access method for multi-link devices, characterized in that, include: If the length of the first PPDU sent by the first STA of the first multi-link device is less than or equal to the first value when the media synchronization delay mediumSyncDelay timer of the second STA is already enabled, the first multi-link device will not update the media synchronization delay mediumSyncDelay timer of the second STA to the initial value when the media synchronization delay mediumSyncDelay timer is enabled, wherein the first STA and the second STA of the first multi-link device cannot transmit and receive simultaneously.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: The first multi-link device receives a first value, which is carried in a beacon frame, an association response frame, or a reassociation response frame.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The method further includes: When the length of the first PPDU is greater than the first value, the first multi-link device determines the initial value of the mediumSyncDelay timer corresponding to the length of the first PPDU, and starts the mediumSyncDelay timer of the second STA with the initial value.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The method further includes: The first multi-link device receives first indication information, which is used to indicate the mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the initial value of the mediumSyncDelay timer.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The method further includes: When the length of the first PPDU is greater than the first value, the first multi-link device starts the mediumSyncDelay timer of the second STA; During the time period of the mediumSyncDelay timer, if the second STA of the first multi-link device engages in channel contention, the energy detection threshold used by the CCA of the second STA is set to the threshold value corresponding to the length of the first PPDU.

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, Before the first STA of the first multi-link device sends the first PPDU, the method further includes: The first multi-link device receives second indication information, which is used to indicate the mapping relationship between PPDU length and energy detection threshold.

7. A first multi-link device, characterized in that, include: The processing unit is configured to, when the mediumSyncDelay timer of the second STA is already enabled, and the length of the first PPDU sent by the first STA of the first multi-link device is less than or equal to a first value, not update the mediumSyncDelay timer of the second STA to the initial value when the mediumSyncDelay timer is enabled, wherein the first STA and the second STA of the first multi-link device cannot transmit and receive simultaneously.

8. The first multi-link device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first multi-link device further includes a transceiver unit, which is used to receive a first value, which is carried in a beacon frame, an association response frame, or a reassociation response frame.

9. The first multi-link device according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that, The processing unit is further configured to: when the length of the first PPDU is greater than the first value, determine the initial value of the mediumSyncDelay timer corresponding to the length of the first PPDU, and start the mediumSyncDelay timer of the second STA with the initial value.

10. The first multi-link device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first multi-link device further includes a transceiver unit, which is used to receive first indication information, which is used to indicate the mapping relationship between the PPDU length and the initial value of the mediumSyncDelay timer.

11. The first multi-link device according to any one of claims 7-10, characterized in that, The processing unit is further configured to: When the length of the first PPDU is greater than the first value, the mediumSyncDelay timer of the second STA is started; During the time period of the mediumSyncDelay timer, if the second STA of the first multi-link device engages in channel contention, the energy detection threshold used by the CCA of the second STA is set to the threshold value corresponding to the length of the first PPDU.

12. The first multi-link device according to claim 11, characterized in that, The first multi-link device further includes a transceiver unit, which is used to receive second indication information, the second indication information being used to indicate the mapping relationship between PPDU length and energy detection threshold.

13. A first multi-link device, characterized in that, The processor includes a processor configured to, when the length of the first PPDU sent by the first STA of the first multi-link device is less than or equal to a first value, not update the media synchronization delay timer of the second STA to the initial value when the media synchronization delay timer is enabled, provided that the media synchronization delay timer mediumSyncDelay of the second STA is already enabled, wherein the first STA and the second STA of the first multi-link device cannot transmit and receive simultaneously.

14. A first multi-link device, characterized in that, The device includes an input / output interface and a processing circuit. The input / output interface is used to receive code instructions and transmit them to the processing circuit. The processing circuit is used to prevent the media synchronization delay timer of the second STA from being updated to the initial value when the media synchronization delay timer is enabled, provided that the media synchronization delay timer mediumSyncDelay of the second STA is already enabled and the length of the first PPDU sent by the first STA of the first multi-link device is less than or equal to a first value. The first STA and the second STA of the first multi-link device cannot transmit and receive simultaneously.

15. A computer-readable storage medium storing program instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1-6.

16. A computer program product comprising program instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1-6.

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