Channel switching method, apparatus, and device

Abstract

The application provides a channel switching method, device and equipment. The method comprises the following steps: a first access point sends an interference information request frame to a target station, the interference information request frame is used for requesting the target station to feed back interference duration of overlapping basic service set (OBSS) interference, wherein the first station is a station in a same basic service set (BSS) with the first access point and in NPCH, the target station comprises at least one first station, and the first access point is an access point in NPCH and subjected to OBSS interference; interference information reply frames fed back by the target station are received, the interference reply frame comprises the interference duration; the first access point sends a switching-back time to all the first stations, the switching-back time is a time for the first station to switch back from NPCH to PCH, and the switching-back time is determined based on the interference duration. The method can avoid the problems of blocked uplink transmission or failed downlink data decoding caused by different switching-back times, reduce signaling overhead in a high-density node scenario, and improve channel utilization.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communications, and more specifically, to a channel switching method, apparatus, and device. Background Technology

[0002] Current channel bonding mechanisms stipulate that when the secondary channel is busy and the primary channel is idle, the device can operate only on the primary channel. However, when the primary channel is busy, even if the secondary channel is idle, it cannot be utilized, resulting in a waste of spectrum resources. To solve this problem, the IEEE 802.11bn standard introduced Non-Primary Channel Access (NPCA) technology. This technology allows access points (APs) and stations (STAs) to temporarily switch to a pre-negotiated NPCA primary channel (NPCH) for data transmission when the primary channel is busy due to Overlap Basic Service Set (OBSS) interference or TBD (To Be Determined) conditions, thereby improving spectrum resource utilization.

[0003] The 802.11bn protocol has preliminarily defined the conditions for a STA or AP to switch from the primary channel to the NPCH after detecting OBSS interference in the NPCA mechanism, such as bandwidth, minimum duration threshold, buffer queue status, and other information. However, the triggering conditions, decision logic, and switching timing for switching back to the primary channel from the NPCH still lack in-depth research and a complete design, which may lead to problems such as switching delays, loss of synchronization media, and decreased resource utilization in different scenarios. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a channel switching method, apparatus, and device, which solve some of the aforementioned technical problems.

[0005] In a first aspect, a channel switching method is provided, applied to a first access point, the method comprising:

[0006] The first access point sends an interference information request frame to the target site. The interference information request frame is used to request the target site to report the duration of the interference it is subjected to by the overlapping basic service set (OBSS). The first site is a site that is in the same basic service set (BSS) as the first access point and is in the non-main channel access main channel (NPCH). The target site includes at least one of the first sites. The first access point is an access point in the NPCH that is subjected to OBSS interference.

[0007] Receive an interference information response frame from the target site, the interference response frame including the interference duration;

[0008] The first access point sends a switchback time to all first stations, the switchback time being the time when the first station switches back to the main channel PCH from the NPCH, and the switchback time is determined based on the interference duration.

[0009] The channel switching method provided in this application collects the duration of OBSS interference received by each target site by sending an interference information request frame to the target site through a first access point and receiving an interference information reply frame from the target site. Based on the interference duration of each target site, the switching time of each first site from NPCH back to PCH is determined and sent to all first sites so that each first site switches back from NPCH to PCH according to the switching time. Since the switching time is determined by comprehensively considering the interference duration of each target site and uniformly informed to all first sites, the problem of uplink transmission obstruction or downlink data decoding failure caused by different switching times can be avoided, reducing signaling overhead in high-density node scenarios and improving channel utilization.

[0010] Secondly, a channel switching method is provided, applied to a target site, the method comprising:

[0011] The system receives an interference information request frame sent by a first access point. The interference information request frame is used to request the target site to report the duration of the OBSS interference it is experiencing. The first access point is an access point in the NPCH that is experiencing OBSS interference. The first site is a site in the same Basic Service Set (BSS) as the first access point and located in the NPCH. The target site includes at least one of the first sites.

[0012] The interference information response frame is fed back to the first access point. The interference response frame includes the interference duration. The interference duration is used by the first access point to send the switchback time to all the first stations. The switchback time is the time when the first station switches back to the main channel PCH from the NPCH. The switchback time is determined based on the interference duration.

[0013] Thirdly, a channel switching device is provided, comprising:

[0014] An interference information request frame sending module is used to send an interference information request frame to a target station. The interference information request frame is used to request the target station to provide feedback on the duration of interference it is subjected to by the overlapping basic service set (OBSS). The target station is some or all of the first stations. The first stations are stations that are in the same basic service set (BSS) as the first access point and are in the non-primary channel access main channel (NPCH). The target stations include at least one of the first stations. The first access point is the access point in the NPCH that is subjected to OBSS interference.

[0015] An interference information response frame receiving module is used to receive interference information response frames fed back by the target station, wherein the interference response frame includes the interference duration;

[0016] The switchback time transmission module is used to send the switchback time to all the first stations. The switchback time is the time when the first station switches back to the main channel PCH from the NPCH. The switchback time is determined based on the interference duration.

[0017] Fourthly, a channel switching device is provided, comprising:

[0018] The interference information request frame receiving module is used to receive an interference information request frame sent by a first access point. The interference information request frame is used to request the target site to report the duration of the interference it is subjected to by OBSS interference. The first access point is an access point that is subjected to OBSS interference and is located in the NPCH. The first site is a site that is in the same basic service set (BSS) as the first access point and is located in the NPCH. The target site includes at least one of the first sites.

[0019] An interference information response frame feedback module is used to send an interference information response frame to the first access point. The interference response frame includes the interference duration. The interference duration is used by the first access point to send a switchback time to all the first stations. The switchback time is the time when the first station switches back to the main channel PCH from the NPCH. The switchback time is determined based on the interference duration.

[0020] Fifthly, an access point device is provided, including a processor and a memory. The memory is used to store a computer program, and the processor is used to call and run the computer program stored in the memory to perform the methods described in the first aspect or its various implementations.

[0021] In a sixth aspect, a site device is provided, including a processor and a memory. The memory is used to store a computer program, and the processor is used to invoke and run the computer program stored in the memory to perform the methods in the second aspect or its implementations described above.

[0022] In a seventh aspect, a chip is provided for implementing the methods of any one of the first to second aspects or their respective implementations. Specifically, the chip includes: a processor for calling and running a computer program from a memory, causing a device on which the chip is installed to perform the methods of any one of the first to second aspects or their respective implementations.

[0023] Eighthly, a readable storage medium is provided for storing a computer program that causes a computer to perform the methods of any one of the first to second aspects or their respective implementations.

[0024] A ninth aspect provides a communication device, comprising: a processor and a memory for storing a computer program, the processor for calling and running the computer program stored in the memory to perform the methods of any one of the first to second aspects or their respective implementations.

[0025] In a tenth aspect, a communication system is provided, including an access point device and a terminal device, wherein the access point device is configured to perform the method of any one of the first aspects or its implementations described above, and the terminal device is configured to perform the method of any one of the second aspects or its implementations described above.

[0026] The above technical solution collects the duration of OBSS interference received by each target site by sending interference information request frames to the target sites and receiving interference information reply frames from the target sites. Based on the interference duration of each target site, the handover time for each first site to switch back from NPCH to PCH is determined and sent to all first sites so that each first site can switch back from NPCH to PCH according to the handover time. Since the handover time is determined by comprehensively considering the interference duration of each target site and uniformly informed to all first sites, the problem of uplink transmission obstruction or downlink data decoding failure caused by different handover times can be avoided, reducing signaling overhead in high-density node scenarios and improving channel utilization. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a communication system applicable to embodiments of this application.

[0028] Figure 2 This is an interactive schematic diagram of a channel switching method provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0029] Figure 3 This is an interactive schematic diagram of another channel switching method provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0030] Figure 4This is a schematic diagram of the frame structure of an interference information request frame provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0031] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the frame structure of an interference information response frame provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0032] Figure 6 This is an interactive schematic diagram of another channel switching method provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0033] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the frame structure of a switchback indication frame provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0034] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the frame structure of a beacon frame or switchback frame provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0035] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the frame structure of a beacon frame provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0036] Figure 10 This is an interactive schematic diagram of Embodiment 1 provided in this application.

[0037] Figure 11 This is an interactive schematic diagram of Embodiment 2 provided in this application.

[0038] Figure 12 This is an interactive schematic diagram of Embodiment 3 provided in this application.

[0039] Figure 13 This is an interactive schematic diagram of Embodiment 4 provided in this application.

[0040] Figure 14 This is an interactive schematic diagram of Embodiment 5 provided in this application.

[0041] Figure 15 This is an interactive schematic diagram of Embodiment Six provided in this application.

[0042] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the network topology of AP1 performing NPCA operations during TWT SP provided in this application embodiment.

[0043] Figure 17 This is an interactive schematic diagram of the first scheme in Embodiment Seven provided in this application.

[0044] Figure 18 This is an interactive schematic diagram of the second scheme in Embodiment Seven provided in this application.

[0045] Figure 19 This is a schematic block diagram of a channel switching device provided according to an embodiment of this application.

[0046] Figure 20 This is a schematic block diagram of another channel switching device provided according to an embodiment of this application.

[0047] Figure 21 This is a schematic block diagram of a communication device provided according to an embodiment of this application.

[0048] Figure 22 This is a schematic block diagram of a chip provided according to an embodiment of this application.

[0049] Figure 23 This is a schematic block diagram of a communication system provided according to an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0050] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of them. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort regarding the embodiments of this application are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0051] It should be noted that, in this document, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second," etc., used herein are used only to distinguish different objects and not to describe a particular order.

[0052] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of this application, "at least one item" refers to one item or more items, "more items" refers to two items or more, and "at least two items" refers to two items or more. "At least one of the following items" or similar expressions can refer to any combination of these items. For example, at least one item of a, b, or c can mean: a, b, c, "a and b", "a and c", "b and c", or "a and b and c".

[0053] It should be noted that in the embodiments of this application, "and / or" indicates that the connected objects can have three relationships. For example, "A and / or B" can represent three scenarios: only A exists, only B exists, and both A and B exist simultaneously. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following objects have an "or" relationship.

[0054] It should be understood that the "instruction" mentioned in the embodiments of this application can be a direct instruction or an indirect instruction. For example, A instructing B can mean that A directly instructs B, such as B being obtainable through A; or it can mean that A indirectly instructs B, such as A instructing C, where B is obtainable through C, for example, B and C are related.

[0055] The technical solutions provided in this application can be applied to wireless local area network (WLAN) systems, such as WiFi protocols. These WiFi protocols may include, but are not limited to, the 802.11 series protocols, such as 802.11a, 802.11ax, 802.11ac, 802.11b, 802.11be, 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11bn, or next-generation protocols.

[0056] Figure 1 A schematic structural diagram of a communication system 100 applicable to embodiments of this application is shown. The communication system 100 may include an access point device 110 and a site device 120. The site device 120 can access the network through the access point device 110.

[0057] Access points can support communication or sensing based on WiFi protocols, such as 802.11a, 802.11ax, 802.11ac, 802.11b, 802.11be, 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11bn, next-generation protocols of 802.11bn, or even later WiFi protocols.

[0058] The site can support communication or sensing based on WiFi protocols, such as 802.11a, 802.11ax, 802.11ac, 802.11b, 802.11be, 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11bn, next-generation protocols of 802.11bn, or even later WiFi protocols.

[0059] The communication in the communication system 100 can be communication between access points and stations, or communication between stations, or communication between access points.

[0060] An access point acts as a bridge connecting wired and wireless networks. Its main function is to connect various wireless network clients together and then connect the wireless network to the Ethernet.

[0061] A station (STA) includes access point stations (AP STA) and non-access point stations (non-AP stations). For simplicity, access point stations are usually referred to as access points (AP), and non-access point stations as stations (STA). Station equipment is also called a station, a non-access point station (Non-AP STA), or a non-access point node.

[0062] In some scenarios, access points and sites can be devices used in vehicle networking, IoT nodes and sensors in the Internet of Things (IoT), smart cameras, smart remote controls, smart water and electricity meters in smart homes, and sensors in smart cities.

[0063] In some scenarios, the access point can be a terminal device (such as a mobile phone) with a WiFi chip or a network device (such as a router).

[0064] In this application embodiment, the site can be a mobile phone, tablet computer, computer, virtual reality (VR) device, augmented reality (AR) device, wireless device in industrial control, set-top box, wireless device in self-driving, vehicle communication device, wireless device in remote medical care, wireless device in smart grid, wireless device in transportation safety, wireless device in smart city or smart home, wireless device, wireless communication chip, etc. that support WLAN or WiFi technology.

[0065] It should be understood that Figure 2 Only one access point and two sites are shown in the example. Optionally, the communication system 100 may include multiple access points or other numbers of sites. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0066] Optionally, the communication system 100 may also include other devices, such as network controllers, gateways, and other network entities, which are not limited in this application.

[0067] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, the related technologies are described.

[0068] Multi-Link Operation (MLO) is defined in IEEE 802.11be. [4] A key technology in the standard is MLO (Multi-Link Optimization), designed to significantly improve network performance by allowing devices to transmit data in parallel on multiple links in the same or different frequency bands (such as 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz). Specifically, MLO effectively increases throughput, reduces latency, and enhances network reliability. Devices supporting MLO are divided into two categories: MLD APs and MLD STAs. MLO operation modes are mainly divided into Synchronous Transmit and Receive (STR) and Non-Synchronous Transmit and Receive (NSTR). In STR mode, each link operates completely independently, allowing multiple links to transmit and receive data simultaneously in different directions, and the transmission end times do not need to be aligned. In NSTR mode, the transmission directions of multiple links must be consistent, and the transmission end times must be aligned. The 802.11be standard stipulates that NSTR mode can contain a maximum of two links, one primary link and one secondary link. The primary link cannot be disabled or removed, and the availability of the secondary link depends entirely on the status of the primary link. In addition, the NSTR mobile AP MLD can only transmit beacon frames, probe response frames, and multicast data frames on the main link.

[0069] Multi-AP Coordination (MAPC) is a key enhancement mechanism proposed against the backdrop of dense Wi-Fi network deployment, increased interference, and the growing demand for low latency and high throughput. The 802.11bn standard draft 0.1 categorizes MAPC into five types: Coordinated Beamforming (Co-BF), Coordinated Spatial Reuse (Co-SR), Coordinated Time Division Multiple Access (Co-TDMA), Coordinated Restricted Target Wake Time (Co-RTWT), and Seamless Roaming.

[0070] The 802.11bn standard draft 0.1 defines a multi-AP collaboration framework, aiming to provide a consistent discovery, negotiation, and identification management process for various types of multi-AP collaboration mechanisms. Its design goal is to standardize the coordination methods between different APs and improve the scalability and interoperability of system collaboration capabilities. The multi-AP collaboration framework consists of two core general processes: MAPC Discovery and MAPC Agreement Negotiation. During the MAPC Discovery phase, the UHRAP informs users of its supported multi-AP collaboration capabilities and configuration parameters via broadcast frames, establishing collaboration awareness. During the MAPC Negotiation phase, the initiating AP and one or more APs supporting the same collaboration mechanism confirm their collaboration intentions and negotiate parameters through management frames, establishing a multi-AP collaboration framework protocol relationship. The negotiation phase also utilizes an AP ID allocation mechanism to ensure that each collaborative entity in the multi-AP environment has a unique and identifiable identifier to support scheduling and resource management.

[0071] Target Wake Time (TWT) is a periodic power-saving mechanism first introduced in 802.11ah and later incorporated into 802.11ax. [3] and 802.11be [4] The core idea of ​​the standard is to pre-configure a set of TWT parameters for each STA through the AP, including the TWT start time, service cycle duration, and service cycle interval. The STA enters an active state within a specific TWT SP based on these parameters, and remains in a dormant state at other times. Each TWT SP contains at least one wake-up start time and optionally specifies the duration. If configured in a periodic mode, multiple TWT SPs will periodically repeat according to the negotiated service cycle interval, supporting periodic business scenarios.

[0072] The 802.11bn protocol has preliminarily defined the conditions for a STA or AP to switch from the primary channel to the NPCH after detecting OBSS interference in the NPCA mechanism, such as bandwidth, minimum duration threshold, buffer queue status, and other information. However, the triggering conditions, decision logic, and switching timing for switching back from the NPCH to the primary channel still lack in-depth research and a complete design, leading to problems such as switching delays, loss of synchronization media, and decreased resource utilization in different scenarios. Currently, traditional technologies mainly perform the NPCH-back-to-PCH operation based on the following conditions:

[0073] (1) Use the TXOP (Transmission Opportunity) NAV (Network Allocation Vector) time of OBSS control frame exchange or OBSS PPDU (Physical Protocol Data Unit) as the switchback condition, that is, switch back from NPCH to PCH before the NAV timer reaches zero.

[0074] (2) In the Co-RTWT mechanism, the timing of STA switching to NPCH and switching back to PCH is determined based on the start and end times of OBSS TWT SP (Service Period).

[0075] (3) If the AP and STA trigger NPCA operation due to different OBSS interference, resulting in different NPCA operation durations between NPCA peer devices, it is recommended that the STA follow the OBSS NAV observed by the AP as the NPCA operation duration.

[0076] Although proposals have addressed the latency issues during NPCH PCH switching and related parameter reset mechanisms, current research is still in its early stages, and the following key issues have not yet been explored in depth.

[0077] The AP and STA may trigger NPCA operations due to different OBSS interference, resulting in different timings for the AP and STA to switch back to the main channel. If the STA switches back from NPCH to PCH prematurely, the STA on PCH may initiate an invalid TXOP; if the AP switches back from NPCH to PCH prematurely, the STA remaining on NPCH may initiate an invalid TXOP, and media loss may also occur. If the STA switches back to PCH according to the AP's OBSS end time, but the detected OBSS interference has not yet ended, the STA cannot initiate uplink transmission on PCH and may not be able to correctly decode downlink data packets.

[0078] Impact of early termination of OBSS TXOP: If the OBSS AP terminates its TXOP on the PCH early, since the AP and STA have already switched to NPCH, they cannot listen to and decode frames on the PCH, and will still use the OBSS NAV as the time of switching back to PCH from NPCH. STAs that have not switched to NPCH may initiate meaningless TXOPs on the PCH, affecting channel utilization.

[0079] Hidden node issues affect NPCA handover decisions: When the main channel is occupied by a hidden node during the TWT SP period, if the AP and STA find that the channel is occupied after switching back to the main channel after the OBSS NAV ends, they cannot use the remaining SP time for transmission, affecting channel utilization and throughput performance.

[0080] The technical solutions of this application are described in detail below through specific embodiments. The above-mentioned related technologies are optional solutions and can be combined with the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application in any way, all of which fall within the protection scope of the embodiments of this application.

[0081] Figure 2 This is an interactive schematic diagram of a channel switching method according to an embodiment of this application. The method is applied to a first access point and includes at least the following:

[0082] S110, the first access point sends an interference information request frame to the target site. The interference information request frame is used to request the target site to report the duration of the interference it is subjected to by the overlapping basic service set (OBSS). The first site is a site that is in the same basic service set (BSS) as the first access point and is in the non-primary channel access main channel (NPCH). The target site includes at least one of the first sites. The first access point is an access point in the NPCH that is subjected to OBSS interference.

[0083] S120, receive the interference information response frame fed back by the target station, the interference response frame including the interference duration.

[0084] S130, the first access point sends a switchback time to all first stations, the switchback time being the time when the first station switches back to the main channel PCH from the NPCH, and the switchback time is determined based on the interference duration.

[0085] Correspondingly, see Figure 3 S210, the first station receives an interference information request frame sent by the first access point. The interference information request frame is used to request the target station to report the duration of the OBSS interference it is experiencing. The first access point is an access point located in the NPCH experiencing OBSS interference, and the first station is a station located in the same Basic Service Set (BSS) as the first access point and also in the NPCH. The target station includes at least one of the first stations. S220, the first access point sends an interference information reply frame to the first access point. The interference reply frame includes the interference duration. The interference duration is used by the first access point to send a switchback time to all the first stations. The switchback time is the time it takes for the first station to switch back from the NPCH to the main channel (PCH), and the switchback time is determined based on the interference duration.

[0086] The channel switching method provided in this application involves a first access point collecting the duration of OBSS interference received by each target site by sending an interference information request frame to the target site and receiving an interference information reply frame from the target site. Based on the interference duration of each target site, the first access point determines the handover time for each first site to switch back from NPCH to PCH and sends the handover time to all first sites so that each first site can switch back from NPCH to PCH according to the handover time. Since the handover time is determined by comprehensively considering the interference duration of each target site and uniformly notified to all first sites, the problem of uplink transmission obstruction or downlink data decoding failure caused by different handover times can be avoided, reducing signaling overhead in high-density node scenarios and improving channel utilization.

[0087] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the first site is a site located in the same BSS (Basic Service Set) as the first access point and situated in the NPCH. The first access point is an access point situated in the NPCH due to OBSS interference. That is, only when both the first access point and the first site switch to the NPCH due to interference or other factors does the first access point need to collect the interference duration of each first site and make a comprehensive decision on the handover time to switch back to the PCH based on this. In this embodiment, the target site includes at least one first site, that is, the target site is some or all of the first sites, in order to balance the accuracy of the first access point's decision on the handover time and the signaling overhead of exchanging OBSS information.

[0088] Understandably, the switchback time in this embodiment can be a specific point in time or a period of time after that point, during which the NPCH can switch back to the PCH. The interference information request frame can be represented as OBSS Info ICF, and the interference information response frame can be represented as OBSS Info ICR.

[0089] In some embodiments, the switchback time is the maximum value among the interference durations for each target site. Alternatively, the switchback time is the optimal interference duration determined using artificial intelligence techniques from among the interference durations.

[0090] In some embodiments, when the number of the first sites is less than or equal to the number of preset sites, the target sites are all of the first sites.

[0091] In some embodiments, when the number of the first sites is greater than the preset number of sites, the target sites are a portion of the first sites, and the target sites are determined from the first sites by one of the following methods: random dynamic sampling, preset rule dynamic sampling, or threshold triggering.

[0092] Understandably, sending interference information request frames and response frames to each target site incurs signaling overhead. Furthermore, if the collected interference duration at the target site is short, it can affect the accuracy of the final handover time decision. Therefore, to balance the accuracy of the handover time with the signaling overhead of exchanging OBSS information, if the number of first sites is less than or equal to a preset number (i.e., in non-high-density node scenarios), all first sites are selected as target sites to improve handover time accuracy. If the number of first sites is greater than the preset number (i.e., in high-density scenarios), a subset of first sites are selected as target sites to minimize signaling overhead caused by exchanging OBSS information while still achieving accurate handover time.

[0093] The preset number of sites can be determined based on the number of sites corresponding to common high-density and non-high-density scenarios.

[0094] Specifically, if the target site is part of the first site, it can be determined from the first site by one of the following methods: random dynamic sampling, preset rule dynamic sampling, or threshold triggering.

[0095] The three methods of dynamic sampling are: Random dynamic sampling and Threshold Triggering. Random dynamic sampling involves selecting a subset of sites from the first set of sites as target sites. For example, if the first set of sites includes STA1, STA2, and STA3, the first access point randomly selects STA1 and STA2 as target sites. Preset rule dynamic sampling involves selecting sites from the first set of sites according to certain criteria. For example, if the first set of sites includes STA1, STA2, and STA3, STA1 and STA3 are selected as target sites at specific intervals. Random dynamic sampling and preset rule dynamic sampling can be collectively referred to as dynamic sampling methods. Threshold triggering involves the first access point setting a threshold condition. Sites meeting the threshold condition report interference information response frames. The threshold condition can be that the OBSS NAV of the target site is greater than or less than a certain threshold. These three methods can quickly identify target sites from the first set of sites, thus providing a basis for subsequent handover time decisions.

[0096] In some embodiments, the interference information request frame further carries OBSS information feedback indicator information, used to indicate the threshold conditions that the first access point needs to meet to require the target site to feed back the interference information response frame. When the first access point determines the target site in a threshold-triggered manner, the OBSS information feedback indicator information includes at least one of a first OBSS network allocation vector (NAV) threshold and a second OBSS NAV threshold. The first OBSS NAV threshold is used to indicate the minimum threshold condition that the target site needs to meet to feed back the interference information response frame, and the second OBSS NAV threshold is used to indicate the maximum threshold condition that the target site needs to meet to feed back the interference information response frame.

[0097] This embodiment illustrates the specific threshold conditions for determining the target site using the threshold triggering method. Specifically, the target site is a site in the first site whose OBSS NAV is greater than the first OBSS NAV threshold and / or less than the second OBSS NAV threshold. The target site determined in this way can more accurately reflect the overall interference duration of the first site.

[0098] Understandably, in this embodiment, the threshold condition is indicated to each first station by sending an interference information request frame through the first access point. Each first station decides whether to send an interference information reply frame to the first access point as a target station based on the OBSS information feedback index information carried in the interference information request frame.

[0099] In some embodiments, the interference information request frame further carries request mode information, which is used by the first access point to instruct the target site to respond to the interference information reply frame in a response mode. The response mode is one of OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access) mode, polling mode, or UORA (Uplink Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access Random Access) mode.

[0100] Understandably, when the first access point sends an interference information request frame to the target site, the interference information request frame carries request mode information, thereby instructing the target site to send back an interference information response frame according to the indicated response mode.

[0101] The response mode can be one of OFDMA, polling, or UORA. OFDMA mode involves dividing the radio channel into multiple orthogonal sub-channels and dynamically allocating them to multiple target stations. Each target station feeds back an interference information response frame on its assigned orthogonal sub-channel. Polling mode involves the first access point sequentially querying the target stations to see if they need to transmit data and receiving interference information response frames from each target station. UORA mode involves the first access point dividing the channel into multiple resource units, and each target station competes for a portion of these resource units to obtain transmission opportunities and report interference information response frames.

[0102] In some embodiments, the interference information request frame further includes:

[0103] HMAC (Hash-based Message Authentication Code) request information is used to request the target site to reply with HMAC signature information, which is used to verify whether the identity information of the target site is secure.

[0104] Understandably, HMAC request information is carried in the interference information request frame, and HMAC signature information can be carried in the interference information response frame. The identity of each target site is confirmed through OBSS information interaction, thereby preventing malicious sites from forging the interference duration and interfering with the accuracy of the first access point's decision on the handover time, thus improving the security and robustness of the NPCA handover mechanism.

[0105] In some embodiments, the interference information request frame further includes at least one of the following:

[0106] OBSS information response indication information is used to indicate whether the interference information request frame carries a first OBSS NAV threshold and / or a second OBSS NAV threshold.

[0107] OBSS identification information is used to indicate the identifier of the OBSS that requested the target site to report the interference it was experiencing.

[0108] The first OBSS NAV is used to indicate the duration of interference requested from the target site, which is being interfered with by OBSS.

[0109] In some embodiments, the interference information request frame further includes at least one of the following:

[0110] NPCH information, used to indicate the number of the NPCH.

[0111] The UORA parameter set includes at least opportunity contention window information, contention window length information, contention window identifier, and contention window expansion identifier. The opportunity contention window information is used to indicate the initial contention window size range when the target site engages in UORA contention when the request mode information carried in the interference information request frame is in UORA mode. The contention window length information indicates the length of subsequent subfields. The contention window identifier indicates the identifier of the contention window. The contention window expansion identifier indicates the identifier of the expanded contention window when the number of contention windows is insufficient.

[0112] Interference information request frames can be designed based on the Basic Trigger frame structure in the IEEE 802.11ax standard. This can be achieved by modifying the trigger type subfield and the trigger dependency public information subfield in the public information field. Of course, interference information request frames can also be implemented by improving other types of frame structures or modifying other fields. This application does not limit this.

[0113] like Figure 4 As shown, Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the frame structure of an interference information request frame provided in an embodiment of this application. The designed interference information request frame adds a new frame type to the trigger frame type value, as shown in Table 1 below. Table 1 shows the value of the trigger type subfield. Currently, eight types of trigger frames, from 0 to 7, have been defined. Therefore, the value of the trigger type subfield can be 8 to represent the interference information request frame designed in this embodiment of the application.

[0114] Table 1

[0115] Trigger type subfield value retrieval Trigger Frame Variants 0 Basic trigger frame 1 Beamforming Report Polling Frame (BFRP Frame) 2 Multi-User Block Acknowledgment Request Frame (MU-BAR Frame) 3 Multi-user request to send frames (MU-RTS frame) 4 Buffer Status Report Polling Frame (BSRP) 5 Multicast retransmission of MU-BAR frames 6 Bandwidth Query Report Polling Frame (BQRP Frame) 7 NDP Feedback Report Polling Frame (NFRP Frame) 8 Interference Information Request Frame (OBSS Info ICF) 9-15 reserve

[0116] The trigger-dependent public information subfield further includes the NPCA main channel subfield, the UORA parameter set subfield, and the OBSS information request subfield. The NPCA main channel subfield carries NPH information. The UORA subfield carries the UORA information set and further includes an element ID (Identity Document) subfield, a first length subfield, an element ID extension subfield, and an OCW (Opportunity Contention Window) range subfield. The OCW range subfield further includes a minimum OCW subfield, a maximum OCW subfield, and a reserved subfield. The element ID subfield carries the contention window identifier, the length subfield carries the contention window length information, the element ID extension subfield carries the contention window extension identifier, and the OCW range subfield carries the opportunity contention window information. The minimum OCW subfield and the maximum OCW subfield represent the minimum and maximum values ​​of the initial contention window, respectively.

[0117] The OBSS information request subfield further includes an OBSS information response indication subfield, a second length subfield, an OBSS NAV threshold subfield, an HMAC request subfield, a request mode subfield, an OBSSID subfield, an OBSS NAV subfield, and a reserved subfield. The OBSS information response indication subfield carries OBSS information response indication information; the second length subfield carries threshold quantity information, indicating which OBSS NAV thresholds to carry; the OBSS NAV threshold subfield carries specific OBSS NAV thresholds, which may include a first OBSS NAV threshold and a second OBSS NAV threshold; the HMAC request subfield carries HMAC request information; the request mode subfield carries request mode information; the OBSSID subfield carries OBSS identification information; and the OBSS NAV subfield carries the first OBSS NAV.

[0118] Specifically, different values ​​in the OBSS information response indicator subfield represent different meanings, as shown in Table 2 below:

[0119] Table 2

[0120]

[0121]

[0122] Specifically, different values ​​for the second length subfield represent different meanings, as shown in Table 3 below:

[0123] Table 3

[0124] Value Meaning of values 0 Does not include the OBSS NAV threshold subfield 1 Carrying the first OBSS NAV threshold or the second OBSS NAV threshold 2 Simultaneously carrying the first OBSS NAV threshold and the second OBSS NAV threshold 3 reserve

[0125] Specifically, the OBSS NAV threshold subfield, when its value is non-zero, indicates that it carries the OBSS NAV threshold. It may further include at least one sub-OBSS NAV threshold subfield, each carrying the numerical value of a specific OBSS NAV threshold. For example, the OBSS NAV threshold subfield may include a first OBSS NAV threshold subfield and a second OBSS NAV threshold subfield. The first OBSS NAV threshold subfield carries the minimum OBSS NAV threshold, and the second OBSS NAV threshold subfield carries the maximum OBSS NAV threshold.

[0126] Understandably, if the first access point selects to determine the target site in a non-threshold triggering manner, the OBSS information response indication subfield is set to 0, the second length subfield is set to 0, the OBSS NAV threshold subfield is set to 0, and the first OBSS NAV threshold subfield and the second OBSS NAV threshold subfield may not be included.

[0127] Specifically, different values ​​of the HMAC request subfield have different meanings. For example, a value of 0 indicates that the first access point does not require the target site to reply with HMAC signature information, while a value of 1 indicates that the first access point requires the target site to reply with HMAC signature information.

[0128] Specifically, different values ​​for the request pattern subfield represent different meanings, as shown in Table 4 below:

[0129] Table 4

[0130] Value Meaning of values 0 AP instructs the target station to reply with an interference information response frame in OFDMA mode. 1 The AP instructs the target station to reply with interference information response frames in a polling mode. 2 AP instructs the target station to reply with a response frame containing the interference information in UORA mode. 3 reserve

[0131] Specifically, different values ​​of the OBSSID subfield have different meanings. For example, a value of 0 indicates that the first access point does not request the target site to reply with the identifier of the OBSS that is being interfered with, while a value of 1 indicates that the first access point requests the target site to reply with the identifier of the OBSS that is being interfered with.

[0132] Specifically, different values ​​of the OBSS NAV subfield have different meanings. For example, a value of 0 indicates that the first access point does not request the target site to reply to the interference it has received from the OBSS, while a value of 1 indicates that the first access point requests the target site to reply to the interference it has received from the OBSS.

[0133] It is worth noting that the values, corresponding meanings, and bit positions of each subfield in the aforementioned embodiments are merely illustrative examples. In actual deployment, they can be flexibly adjusted according to requirements, and this application does not impose any restrictions on them.

[0134] In some embodiments, the interference information response frame further includes at least one of the following:

[0135] At least one OBSS information, the OBSS information including a second OBSS NAV and an OBSS identifier, wherein the second OBSS NAV is used to indicate the duration of the OBSS interference suffered by the target site, and the OBSS identifier is used to indicate the identifier of the OBSS that interfered with the target site.

[0136] OBSS information length information, used to indicate the quantity of the OBSS information.

[0137] HMAC signature information is used to instruct the first access point to verify whether the identity information of the target site is secure based on the HMAC signature information.

[0138] The interference information reply frame can be designed based on the CTS (Clear To Send) frame. It can be implemented by adding an HMAC signature field and an OBSS information reply field. Of course, the interference information reply frame can also be implemented by improving other frames or by using existing free fields in the frame. This application does not limit this.

[0139] like Figure 5 As shown, Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the frame structure of an interference information response frame provided in an embodiment of this application. The HMAC signature field is used to carry HMAC signature information. It is carried in the interference information response frame when the target station receives an interference information request frame sent by the first access point, where the HMAC request subfield is set to 1 (i.e., the interference information request frame carries HMAC request information). Since different hash functions calculate different lengths of HMAC signature information, the length of the HMAC signature field can be 0 or variable.

[0140] The OBSS information response field includes a third length subfield and at least one OBSS information subfield. The third length subfield carries the OBSS information length information. Each OBSS information subfield carries one OBSS information. Each OBSS information subfield further includes an OBSSID subfield and an OBSS NAV subfield. The OBSSID subfield carries the OBSS identifier of the current OBSS information, and the OBSS NAV subfield carries the second OBSS NAV of the current OBSS information. The interference duration can be measured in microseconds (µs), with a granularity of 1 µs.

[0141] In some embodiments, see Figure 6 The method further includes: S310, receiving a switchback indication frame sent by a second access point, the switchback indication frame carrying interference early termination information, the interference early termination information being used to indicate that the OBSS transmission opportunity TXOP on the PCH ends early, and the PCH can be switched back early; wherein, the second access point is a cooperating access point of the first access point.

[0142] Correspondingly, the second access point sends a switchback indication frame to the first access point. The switchback indication frame carries interference early termination information, which is used to indicate that the OBSS transmission opportunity TXOP on the PCH ends early, and the PCH can be switched back early. The second access point is a cooperating access point of the first access point.

[0143] In this embodiment, when a second access point that has a cooperative relationship with the first access point detects that OBSSTXOP ends prematurely on the main channel, the second access point sends a switchback indication frame to the first access point. The switchback indication frame carries interference early termination information to inform the first access point that OBSSTXOP on the PCH has ended prematurely and that the PCH can be switched back in advance, thereby avoiding decision delay for the first access point and improving the utilization of the main channel.

[0144] It should be noted that after receiving the handover indication frame, the first access point decides whether to immediately hand back to the PCH based on certain criteria or artificial intelligence technology. If the decision requires immediate handover to the PCH, the first access point sends the handover indication frame to each first station. Upon receiving the handover indication frame, each first station immediately hands back to the PCH or immediately hands back to the PCH after an interval of SIFS (Short Interframe Space). If the decision does not require immediate handover to the PCH, the first station can simply instruct itself to hand back to the PCH according to the original handover time. This scheme can provide the first access point with more reference information for deciding the handover time, thereby avoiding decision delay for the first access point and improving the utilization of the main channel. Optionally, the second access point can send the handover indication frame to the first access point through the cooperative channel.

[0145] See Figure 7 , Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the frame structure of a switchback indication frame provided in an embodiment of this application. It can be implemented by adding an early switchback field to the broadcast frame type. Alternatively, it can be implemented by reusing existing free fields in the broadcast frame, or by adding bytes to other frames or reusing existing free fields. The switchback indication frame can be represented as Switch Back Indication.

[0146] Specifically, the early switchback field includes an early switchback indication subfield, which carries information about the early termination of interference. Furthermore, the early switchback indication subfield can represent different meanings through different values. For example, a value of 0 indicates that the OBSS TXOP on the main channel has not ended, and the first access point cannot switch back to the original main channel in advance; a value of 1 indicates that the OBSS TXOP on the main channel has ended in advance, and the first access point can switch back to the original main channel in advance.

[0147] In some embodiments, the method further includes: receiving a switchback indication frame sent by a second station via a first link, the switchback indication frame carrying interference early termination information, the interference early termination information being used to indicate that the OBSS transmission opportunity TXOP on the PCH ends early, allowing for early switchback of the PCH. Wherein, the switchback indication frame is detected by the second station on a second link, the second link being the link where the PCH is located, the first link being a link different from the second link but connected to the first access point, and the second station being a multi-link device and an associated station of the first access point.

[0148] In this embodiment, if the second station associated with the first access point detects that the OBSS TXOP on the main channel ends prematurely, it will also generate a switchback indication frame and send it to the first access point to indicate that the OBSS TXOP on the PCH ends prematurely and the PCH can be switched back in advance.

[0149] Understandably, if the second site is a multi-link device, the second site can monitor the interference of the PCH on the second link and send the interference termination information to the first access point through the first link. The first link is a different link from the first access point, thereby reducing the interference to the second link when sending the switchback indication frame.

[0150] In some embodiments, the second site is an associated site of the first access point, and the NPCA switch of the second site is in the off state to avoid interference from the second site to the NPCH. More specifically, the second site sends a switchback indication frame on the main channel of the first link. Since the NPCA switch of the second site is off, the second site sends the switchback indication frame through the main channel of the first link, thereby reducing interference to the second link.

[0151] In some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0152] The first access point sends a beacon frame to all first stations before the target wake-up time service period set, or sends a switchback frame to all first stations during each target wake-up time period of the first access point. The beacon frame and switchback frame are generated in the presence of hidden access points and / or hidden stations that interfere with the PCH. Both must carry switchback indication information during the target wake-up time service period, which is used to instruct the first station to switch back to the PCH before the end of the target wake-up time service period set or before the end of the OBSS NAV, or before the end of the TWT SP during each target wake-up time service period. The target wake-up time service period set includes at least one of the TWT SPs.

[0153] In this embodiment, if there are hidden access points and / or hidden sites that interfere with the PCH, the first access point no longer uses the switchback time determined based on the interference duration of each target site or the interference early termination information carried in the switchback indication frame as the standard. Instead, it sends beacon frames to all first sites before the target wake-up time service period set, thereby instructing the first sites to switch back to the PCH before the end of the target wake-up time service period set or before the end of the OBSS NAV; or it sends switchback frames to all first sites during each target wake-up time, thereby instructing the first sites to switch back to the PCH before the end of each TWT SP, so as to avoid the interference effects that may be caused by hidden access points and / or hidden sites and improve channel utilization.

[0154] Understandably, if the method of sending a beacon frame to instruct the first station to switch back to PCH before the end of the target wake-up time service period set or before the end of OBSS NAV is adopted, the signaling overhead is small because each TWT SP does not need to perform frame interaction; if the method of sending a switchback frame to instruct the first station to switch back to PCH before the end of each TWT SP is adopted, the flexibility is relatively high.

[0155] In some embodiments, step S130 includes: the first access point sending the switchback time in a switchback frame to all the first stations, wherein the switchback time is the maximum time among the interference durations.

[0156] Correspondingly, the first station receives a switchback frame sent by the first access point, the switchback frame carrying a switchback time, which is the maximum time among the interference durations.

[0157] In this embodiment, the switchback time is the longest duration among all interference durations, ensuring that there are no more interference problems after each first station switches back to the PCH, thereby improving channel utilization.

[0158] Specifically, the switchback time can be carried in the switchback frame and sent. The specific structure of the switchback frame is as follows: Figure 8 As shown, Figure 8This is a schematic diagram of the frame structure of a beacon frame or switchback frame provided in an embodiment of this application. The switchback frame can be based on existing IEEE 802.11ax... [3] The design is based on the CF-End frame in the standard, such as by adding a Switch Back field. Of course, it can also be designed based on other frames, or by reusing existing free fields in the frame; this application does not limit this. A Switch Back frame can be represented as a Switch Back Frame.

[0159] Specifically, the switchback field further includes at least one of the following: switchback mode subfield, switchback time subfield, TWT SP (Target Wake-up Time Service Period) switchback condition subfield, valid period subfield, and valid service period quantity subfield; wherein, the switchback mode subfield is used to carry switchback mode information, the switchback time subfield is used to carry switchback time information, the TWT SP switchback condition subfield is used to carry target wake-up time service period switchback condition information, the valid period subfield is used to carry valid period information, and the valid service period quantity subfield is used to carry valid service period quantity information.

[0160] Furthermore, the switchback mode information is used to indicate the switchback mode in which the first station switches back to the PCH. The switchback mode includes at least a first mode, a second mode, and a third mode. The first mode indicates that the first station switches back to the PCH after receiving the switchback frame and after a preset time interval. The second mode indicates that the first station switches back to the PCH according to the switchback time carried in the switchback frame after receiving the switchback frame. The third mode indicates that the first station switches back to the PCH according to the target wake-up time service period switchback indication information after receiving the switchback frame. The switchback time information is used to represent the switchback time. The target wake-up time service period switchback condition information is used to indicate that when the switching mode is that the first station switches back to the PCH according to the target wake-up time service period switchback indication information after receiving the switchback frame, the first station switches back to the PCH according to the indication time of the target wake-up time service period switchback indication information. The validity period information is used to indicate the valid SP period of the target wake-up time service period switchback condition information when the switching mode is that the first station switches back to the PCH according to the target wake-up time service period switchback indication information after receiving the switchback frame. The effective service period quantity information is used to indicate the value of the first quantity when the switching mode is that the first station switches back to the PCH according to the indication time of the target wake-up time service period switchback indication information after receiving the switchback frame, and the effective SP period is a set first quantity. The preset time can be SIFS (Short Interframe Spacing).

[0161] like Figure 8As shown, different values ​​for the switchback pattern subfield represent different meanings. The specific values ​​and their meanings are shown in Table 5 below:

[0162] Table 5

[0163] Value Meaning of values 0 The instruction is given to the first station to immediately switch back to the PCH upon receiving the SIFS (Switchback Frame Interval). 1 After receiving the switchback frame, the first station is instructed to switch back to the PCH at the switchback time indicated by the switchback time subfield. 2 After receiving the switchback frame, the first station is instructed to switch back to the PCH according to the time indicated by the TWT SP switchback condition subfield. 3 reserve

[0164] It should be noted that the first mode can be understood as the interference early termination information sent by the first access point to the second access point or the second site after the first access point, i.e., instructing the first site to immediately switch back to the PCH. The second mode can be understood as the first access point determining the switchback time after comprehensively deciding on the interference duration reported by each target site, and instructing the first site to switch back to the PCH according to the switchback time. The third mode can be understood as the first access point determining the existence of hidden access points and / or hidden sites that interfere with the PCH, instructing the first site to switch back to the PCH before the end of the target wake-up time service period or before the end of the OBSS NAV, or before the end of the TWT SP of each target wake-up time service period.

[0165] When the switchback mode subfield is set to 1, the switchback frame carries a switchback time subfield, which contains the switchback time and is used to inform the first station of the switchback time to switch back to the PCH. Specifically, the first station can calculate the time from the moment it receives the switchback frame until the moment or time period indicated by the switchback time, at which point the first station switches back to the PCH. The unit can be microseconds (µs), and the granularity can be 1µs.

[0166] When the switchback mode subfield is set to 2, the switchback frame carries the TWT SP switchback condition subfield. The TWT SP switchback condition subfield can have two values: a value of 0 indicates that the first station should switch back to the PCH before the TWT SP ends, and a value of 1 indicates that the first station should switch back to the PCH before the OBSS NAV ends.

[0167] The validity period subfield can have four possible values, each representing a different meaning. The specific values ​​and their meanings are shown in Table 6 below:

[0168] Table 6

[0169] Value Meaning of values 0 The TWT SP switchback condition subfield is used to indicate that it is valid only for the current SP period. 1 The TWT SP switchback condition subfield is used to indicate that it is valid for all subsequent SP cycles until a new indication is received. 2 The TWT SP switchback condition subfield is used to indicate the number of valid service cycles. 3 reserve

[0170] Understandably, the valid SP quantity subfield will only be carried in the handover frame when the valid period subfield is 2. The valid SP quantity subfield is used to indicate the number of valid service periods. Specifically, this quantity can be a set first quantity, meaning that the first station will only handover back to the PCH within the first quantity of SPs before the TWT SP ends. For example, if the TWT SP set includes 5 SPs, but the first quantity is 3, then the first station will only handover back to the PCH within the first 3 SPs before the TWT SP ends, and handover back within the remaining 2 SPs according to the specific instructions in the handover frame.

[0171] In some embodiments, some subfields in the switchback frame can also be carried in the beacon frame to avoid carrying too much information in the switchback frame. For example, the TWT SP switchback condition subfield, validity period subfield, and validity service period quantity subfield in the aforementioned embodiments can be carried in the beacon frame to achieve the corresponding functions. Their specific values ​​and meanings are the same as in the switchback frame, and will not be repeated here.

[0172] like Figure 9 As shown, Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the frame structure of a beacon frame provided in an embodiment of this application. The beacon frame can be designed based on the UHR Operation Element structure in 802.11bn Draft 0.1, with the addition of a TWT SP Switch Back subfield to the NPCA OperationInformation subfield of the original UHR Operation Information field.

[0173] Correspondingly, the first station receives a switchback frame sent by the first access point. The switchback frame includes a switchback mode for switching back to the PCH. The switchback mode includes at least a first mode, a second mode, and a third mode. The first mode indicates that the PCH will be switched back after a preset time interval following the receipt of the switchback frame. The second mode indicates that the PCH will be switched back according to the switchback time specified in the switchback frame. The third mode indicates that the PCH will be switched back according to the switchback indication information during the target wake-up time service period specified in the switchback frame. The first station switches back to the PCH according to the switchback mode.

[0174] Wherein, the first mode is the mode formed after the first access point receives interference early termination information sent by the second access point or the second station. The interference early termination information is carried in the switchback indication frame sent by the second access point or the second station to the first access point. The interference early termination information is used to indicate that the OBSSTXOP on the PCH ends early, and the PCH can be switched back early. The target wake-up time service period switchback indication information is used to instruct the target station to switch back to the PCH before the end of the target wake-up time service period set or before the end of the OBSS NAV, or before the end of the TWTSP in each target wake-up time service period, in the case of the existence of hidden access points and / or hidden stations that interfere with the PCH. The target wake-up time service period set includes at least one of the TWTSPs.

[0175] In this embodiment, the switchback frame can carry not only the switchback time, but also the switchback indication information during the target wake-up time service or the indication information for immediately switching back to the PCH. The first station can switch back to the PCH according to the switchback mode indicated by the switchback frame, thereby realizing the indication for the first station to switch back to the PCH through a single switchback frame.

[0176] Understandably, the target site is a site within the first site, so the corresponding process is also executed.

[0177] To further understand the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application, the following description is provided in conjunction with specific embodiments:

[0178] The scenarios to which the technical solutions provided in this application are applicable include those shown in Table 7 below.

[0179] Table 7

[0180]

[0181] Example 1: Target sites are selected based on dynamic sampling. The target sites interact with each other using OFDMA to determine the duration of interference. The second access point (cooperative access point) detects and notifies the OBSS TXOP on the PCH to terminate the interference early.

[0182] like Figure 10 As shown, Figure 10This is an interactive diagram of Embodiment 1 provided in this application. This embodiment applies to Scenario 1 and Scenario 3 in Table 7. It is assumed that multi-AP cooperation has been established between the first access point (AP1) and the second access point (AP2) with the NPCA switch off. AP1 selects target sites based on dynamic sampling and instructs the target sites to use OFDMA to interact and interfere for a certain duration. Assuming that AP1 selects STA1 and STA2 as target sites, and STA3 is not selected, the cooperating AP2 listens and notifies AP1 that the OBSS TXOP on the original PCH will end early.

[0183] When AP1 switches to NPCH due to OBSS1 interference, it sends an OBSS Info ICF to the selected target sites STA1 and STA2 on NPCH. This OBSS Info ICF mainly carries OBSS information reply indication information, OBSS identification information, first OBSS NAV, NPCH information, HMAC request information, reference primary channel number, and RU (Resource Unit) allocation information. The reference primary channel code indicates the primary channel number, and the RU allocation information indicates the resource units allocated to PCH and NPCH. The meanings of other information are as described above and will not be repeated here. After receiving the OBSS Info ICF, STA1 and STA2 reply with an OBSS Info ICR. This OBSS Info ICR carries OBSS information, OBSS information length information, and HMAC signature information. The specific meanings are as described above and will not be repeated here. Since STA3 was not selected as a target site, STA3 does not reply with an OBSS Info ICR. After AP1 collects the interference durations reported by STA1 and STA2, it combines its own interference duration with that of each target site and decides the switchback time to PCH based on certain criteria (such as taking the maximum interference duration or using AI technology). It then informs all STAs associated with AP1 and switched to NPCA via Switch Back Frame.

[0184] If AP2 detects the early termination of OBSS1 TXOP on the primary channel, it sends a SwitchBack Indication frame on the cooperative channel to notify AP1 of the early termination of OBSS1 TXOP on the primary channel. After AP1 replies with an ACK frame, it decides whether to immediately switch back to PCH based on certain criteria or using AI technology. If it needs to immediately switch back to PCH, AP1 sends a Switch Back Frame to indicate the STAs associated with it and switched to NPCH, and immediately switches back to PCH after receiving the frame at SIFS interval. If AP1 does not receive the message about the early termination of OBSS1 TXOP, or if AP1 decides not to immediately switch back to PCH, it switches back to PCH according to the switchback time indicated by the original Switch Back Frame.

[0185] Example 2: Target sites are selected based on dynamic sampling. The target sites interact with each other in a polling manner to determine the duration of interference. The second access point (cooperative access point) detects and notifies the OBSS TXOP on the PCH to terminate early.

[0186] like Figure 11 As shown, Figure 11 This is an interactive schematic diagram of Embodiment 2 provided for the present application. This embodiment is basically the same as Embodiment 1, except that this embodiment uses a polling method to interact with the duration of the interference.

[0187] This embodiment applies to scenarios one and three in Table 7. When AP1 switches to NPCH due to OBSS1 interference, it sends an OBSS Info ICF to STA1 on NPCH, carrying OBSS identification information, a first OBSS NAV, and HMAC request information. After receiving the OBSS Info ICF, STA1 replies with an OBSS Info ICR, which carries OBSS information, OBSS information length information, and HMAC signature information. Subsequently, AP1 interacts with STA2 in the same way to determine the interference duration. STA3 is not selected as the target site, therefore STA3 does not reply with an OBSS Info ICR. Other interaction procedures are the same as in Embodiment 1 and will not be repeated here.

[0188] Example 3: Select the target site based on dynamic sampling. The target site is a multi-link device. Indicate the duration of the target site's interactive interference in OFDMA mode. Detect and notify the OBSS TXOP on the PCH to end it in advance by associating with MLD STA detection.

[0189] like Figure 12 As shown, Figure 12This is an interactive schematic diagram of Embodiment 3 provided for the present application. This embodiment is basically the same as Embodiment 1, except that the site and access point in this embodiment are both multi-link devices.

[0190] This embodiment applies to scenarios one and three in Table 7. In this embodiment, it is assumed that both the AP and STA are multi-link devices, and link2 of the MLD AP and MLD STA is interfered with by different OBSSs. MLD AP1 randomly selects all or some MLD STAs as target sites based on dynamic sampling, instructing the target sites to interact with the interference duration using OFMDA (if the number of nodes is small, MLD AP can choose to interact with all MLD STAs). Assuming that MLD AP1 selects MLD STA1 and MLD STA2 to interact with the interference duration, MLD STA3 is not selected. MLD STA4, associated with MLD AP1 and with its NPCA switch off, listens for and notifies MLD AP1 that the TXOP of OBSS1 on its original main channel will end early.

[0191] The signaling interaction process by which MLD AP1 collects the duration of interference detected by MLD STA1 and MLD STA2, decides on the handover time for each MLD STA to switch back to the PCH, is basically the same as in Embodiment 1. MLD STA3 was not selected as the target site, therefore MLD STA3 does not reply with the OBSS Info ICR. If MLD STA4 detects the premature end of OBSS1 TXOP on link2 PCH, it sends a Switch Back Indication frame through another link, link1, to notify MLD AP1 that the premature end of OBSS1 TXOP on the main channel has occurred. The subsequent signaling interaction process is basically the same as in Embodiment 1, the only difference being that the Switch BackFrame is transmitted on link2 NPCH.

[0192] Example 4: Select target site based on dynamic sampling method. The target site is a multi-link device. Instruct the target site to interact with the interference duration in a polling manner. Detect and notify the OBSS TXOP on the PCH to end early by associating with MLD STA detection.

[0193] like Figure 13 As shown, Figure 13 This is an interactive schematic diagram of Embodiment 4 provided for the present application. This embodiment is basically the same as Embodiment 3, except that the target site uses a polling method to interact with the duration of the interference.

[0194] This embodiment applies to scenarios one and three in Table 7. Similar to embodiment three, it assumes that both the AP and STA are multi-link devices, and that link2 of the MLD AP and MLD STA is interfered with by different OBSSs. MLD AP1 randomly selects all or some MLD STAs as target sites based on dynamic sampling, instructing the target sites to interact with the interference duration using a polling method. MLD STA4 monitors the early termination of OBSS1 TXOP on MLD AP1's link2 PCH. MLD STA4 notifies MLD AP1, and MLDAP1 makes the signaling interaction process for deciding and notifying each MLD STA of the switchback time to the PCH. This process is the same as in embodiment three, and the polling method is the same as in embodiment two. MLD AP1 first interacts with MLD STA1 with the interference duration using an AND method, and then interacts with MLD STA2 with the interference duration in the same way.

[0195] Example 5: Select the target site based on the threshold triggering method, instruct the target site to interact with the interference in the UORA mode for a certain duration, and detect and notify the OBSS TXOP on the PCH to end it in advance through the cooperative AP detection (second access point).

[0196] like Figure 14 As shown, Figure 14 This is an interactive diagram of Embodiment 5 provided for the present application. This embodiment is applicable to Scenario 2 and Scenario 3 in Table 7, that is, AP1 selects the target site based on a threshold triggering method.

[0197] Assuming multi-AP cooperation has been established, AP1 informs each associated STA of the OBSS NAV threshold that must be met. STAs that meet the threshold conditions compete for RU to report their OBSS information via UORA. Assume STA1 and STA2 meet the OBSS NAV threshold, while STA3 does not. The cooperating AP2 listens for and notifies AP1 of the early termination event of the OBSS TXOP on the original primary channel. The signaling interaction process is as follows: Figure 14 As shown.

[0198] When AP1 switches to NPCH due to OBSS1 interference, it sends an OBSS Info ICF on NPCH. The OBSS Info ICF carries information including: reference primary channel number, UORA parameter set, RU resources for random access, OBSS information feedback indicators, OBSS identifier information, first OBSS NAV, NPCH information, and HMAC request information. Upon receiving the OBSS Info ICF frame, STA1 and STA2 each select a random number for OFDMA back-off. After successful contention, they randomly select an RU and reply with an OBSS Info ICR carrying OBSS information, OBSS information length information, and HMAC signature information. Since the OBSS NAV interfered with by STA3 does not meet the threshold condition, it does not participate in random access contention. Subsequent signaling interaction procedures are the same as in Example 1.

[0199] Example 6: Select target site based on threshold triggering method, instruct target site to interact with interference in UORA mode for duration, detect and notify the main channel OBSS TXOP to end early through associated site detection, and both access point and site are MLD.

[0200] like Figure 15 As shown, Figure 15 The diagram below illustrates the interaction of Embodiment Six, which is applicable to Scenario Two and Scenario Three in Table 7.

[0201] This embodiment is basically the same as Embodiment 3, assuming that both the AP and STA are multi-link devices, and link2 of the MLD AP and MLD STA is interfered with by different OBSSs. If the associated MLD STA4 detects the premature termination of OBSS1 TXOP on the link2 PCH, it will send a Switch Back Indication frame through another link, link1, to notify MLD AP1 that the OBSS1 TXOP on the main channel has terminated prematurely. The difference is that in this embodiment, MLD AP1 uses a threshold-triggered method to select the target site. Only MLD STAs that meet the threshold condition can actively report the duration of interference via UORA. Assuming that MLD STA1 and MLD STA2 meet the threshold condition, while MLD STA3 does not, the signaling interaction process is as follows: Figure 15 As shown.

[0202] Example 7: When AP1 performs NPCA operation during myBSS TWT SP, the main channel may be occupied by a hidden node. What are the conditions for AP1 and each STA to switch back to the main channel at this time?

[0203] like Figure 16 As shown, Figure 16This is a schematic diagram of the network topology for AP1 performing NPCA operations during TWT SP, as provided in this embodiment. In this embodiment, it is assumed that multiple BSSs operate on the same main channel. If AP1 and STA1 detect OBSS interference from BSS3 during their own TWT SP (myBSS TWT SP), they will switch to the NPCA main channel. Because STA2 and AP2 are hidden nodes of BSS3, they may occupy the PCH during OBSS interference (i.e., BSS3 TXOP), and the time they occupy the PCH is longer than the OBSS NAV. This will cause AP1 and STA1 to find the channel occupied after switching back to the PCH, and they will be unable to utilize the remaining SP time for transmission, affecting channel utilization and throughput. Therefore, AP1 needs to make a decision and inform STA1 of the time to switch back to the main channel. This embodiment designs two processing schemes for AP1 to inform STA1 of the PCH switchback time: 1) AP1 instructs STA to switch back to the main channel time before the TWT SP via a broadcast frame; 2) AP instructs STA to switch back to the main channel time within each TWT SP of myBSS. These two schemes are applicable to scenario four in Table 7.

[0204] like Figure 17 As shown, Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the interaction of the first scheme in Embodiment Seven of this application. In this embodiment, when a hidden node exists, AP1 sends a beacon frame to inform its associated STA, which has switched to NPCH, to switch back to the main channel before the TWT SP set, in order to avoid the influence of possible hidden terminals and improve channel utilization. When no hidden node exists, AP1 informs STA1 via a Beacon frame to switch back to the main channel before the end of the OBSS NAV set, and then AP and STA switch back to the main channel according to this indication. This scheme is applicable to all SP cycles in the TWT SP set and has low signaling overhead.

[0205] Understandably, AP1 can only obtain hidden node information if there is a cooperating AP; otherwise, it is difficult to obtain hidden node information.

[0206] like Figure 18 As shown, Figure 18This is an interactive diagram illustrating the second scheme in Embodiment Seven of this application. In this embodiment, for cases where hidden nodes exist, AP1 sends a broadcast frame (which can be a Switch Back Frame) at each TWT SP to inform all STAs associated with and switched to the NPCH to switch back to the main channel before each TWT SP; for cases where no hidden nodes exist, AP1 informs STA1 via a broadcast frame to switch back to the main channel before the OBSS NAV ends. This scheme can notify associated STAs of the time to switch back to the PCH within each TWT SP, making the switching method more flexible than the aforementioned first scheme.

[0207] The above text combined Figures 1 to 18 The method embodiments of this application are described in detail below, in conjunction with... Figures 19 to 23 The present application describes the device embodiments in detail. It should be understood that the device embodiments correspond to the method embodiments, and similar descriptions can be referred to the method embodiments.

[0208] Figure 19 A schematic block diagram of a channel switching device 200 according to an embodiment of this application is shown. The channel switching device 200 can be an access point device, or a component within an access point device, such as a chip, circuit, or module. Figure 19 The channel switching device 200 includes:

[0209] Interference information request frame sending module 210 is used to send an interference information request frame to a target station. The interference information request frame is used to request the target station to provide feedback on the duration of interference it is subjected to by overlapping basic service set (OBSS). The target station is some or all of the first stations. The first stations are stations that are in the same basic service set (BSS) as the first access point and are in the non-main channel access main channel (NPCH). The target stations include at least one of the first stations. The first access point is an access point in the NPCH that is subjected to OBSS interference.

[0210] The interference information response frame receiving module 220 is used to receive the interference information response frame fed back by the target station, wherein the interference response frame includes the interference duration.

[0211] The switchback time sending module 230 is used to send the switchback time to all the first stations, wherein the switchback time is the time when the first station switches back to the main channel PCH from the NPCH, and the switchback time is determined based on the interference duration.

[0212] The channel switching device provided in this embodiment collects the duration of OBSS interference received by each target station by sending an interference information request frame to the target station through the first access point and receiving an interference information reply frame from the target station. Based on the interference duration of each target station, it comprehensively determines the handover time for each first station to switch back from NPCH to PCH and sends the handover time to all first stations so that each first station can switch back from NPCH to PCH according to the handover time. Since the handover time is comprehensively determined by the interference duration of each target station and uniformly informed to all first stations, it can avoid the problem of uplink transmission obstruction or downlink data decoding failure caused by different handover times, reduce signaling overhead in high-density node scenarios, and improve channel utilization.

[0213] It should be understood that the apparatus 200 according to the embodiments of this application may correspond to the access point device in the method embodiments of this application, and the various units in the apparatus 200 and the other operations and / or functions described above are respectively for implementing Figures 1 to 18 The corresponding processes applied to the access point devices in the embodiments described herein will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0214] Figure 20 This is a schematic block diagram of another channel switching device 300 provided according to an embodiment of this application. The channel switching device 300 can be a site device, or a component within a site device, such as a chip, circuit, or module.

[0215] like Figure 20 As shown, the channel switching device 300 includes:

[0216] The interference information request frame receiving module 310 is used to receive an interference information request frame sent by a first access point. The interference information request frame is used to request the target site to report the duration of the OBSS interference it is experiencing. The first access point is an access point in the NPCH that is experiencing OBSS interference. The first site is a site in the same Basic Service Set (BSS) as the first access point and located in the NPCH. The target site includes at least one of the first sites.

[0217] The interference information response frame feedback module 320 is used to feed back an interference information response frame to the first access point. The interference response frame includes the interference duration. The interference duration is used by the first access point to send a switchback time to all the first stations. The switchback time is the time when the first station switches back to the main channel PCH from the NPCH. The switchback time is determined based on the interference duration.

[0218] The channel switching device provided in this embodiment collects the duration of OBSS interference received by each target station by sending an interference information request frame to the target station through the first access point and receiving an interference information reply frame from the target station. Based on the interference duration of each target station, it comprehensively determines the handover time for each first station to switch back from NPCH to PCH and sends the handover time to all first stations so that each first station can switch back from NPCH to PCH according to the handover time. Since the handover time is comprehensively determined by the interference duration of each target station and uniformly informed to all first stations, it can avoid the problem of uplink transmission obstruction or downlink data decoding failure caused by different handover times, reduce signaling overhead in high-density node scenarios, and improve channel utilization.

[0219] It should be understood that the apparatus 300 according to the embodiments of this application may correspond to the site device in the method embodiments of this application, and the various units in the apparatus 300 and the other operations and / or functions described above are respectively for implementing Figures 1 to 18 The corresponding processes of the site devices in the method embodiment shown are not described in detail here for the sake of brevity.

[0220] This application provides an access point device, characterized in that it includes: a processor and a memory, the memory being used to store a computer program, and the processor being used to call and run the computer program stored in the memory to implement the method applied to a first access point in this application embodiment.

[0221] This application provides a site device, characterized in that it includes: a processor and a memory, the memory being used to store a computer program, and the processor being used to call and run the computer program stored in the memory to implement the method applied to the target site in this application embodiment.

[0222] Figure 21 This is a schematic structural diagram of a communication device 500 provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 21 The communication device 500 shown includes a processor 510, which can call and run computer programs from memory to implement the methods in the embodiments of this application.

[0223] Optionally, such as Figure 21As shown, the communication device 500 may further include a memory 520. The processor 510 can call and run a computer program from the memory 520 to implement the methods in the embodiments of this application. For example, when the communication device 500 is an access point device, the processor 510 can call and run a computer program from the memory 520 to implement the various steps of the method embodiment executed by the first access point, achieving the same technical effect. When the communication device 500 is a terminal device, the processor 510 can call and run a computer program from the memory 520 to implement the various steps of the method embodiment executed by the target site, achieving the same technical effect.

[0224] Alternatively, the memory 520 may be a separate device independent of the processor 510, or it may be integrated into the processor 510.

[0225] Optionally, such as Figure 21 As shown, the communication device 500 may also include a transceiver 530, and the processor 510 may control the transceiver 530 to communicate with other devices. Specifically, it may send information or data to other devices or receive information or data sent by other devices.

[0226] Optionally, transceiver 530 may include a transmitter and a receiver. Transceiver 530 may further include antennas, and the number of antennas may be one or more.

[0227] Figure 22 This is a schematic structural diagram of the chip according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 22 The chip 600 shown includes a processor 610, which can call and run computer programs from memory to implement the methods in the embodiments of this application.

[0228] Optionally, such as Figure 22 As shown, chip 600 may further include memory 620. Processor 610 can retrieve and run computer programs from memory 620 to implement the methods described in this embodiment.

[0229] Alternatively, the memory 620 may be a separate device independent of the processor 610, or it may be integrated into the processor 610.

[0230] Optionally, the chip 600 may also include an input interface 630. The processor 610 can control the input interface 630 to communicate with other devices or chips, for example, to acquire information or data sent by other devices or chips.

[0231] Optionally, the chip 600 may also include an output interface 640. The processor 610 can control the output interface 640 to communicate with other devices or chips, for example, to output information or data to other devices or chips.

[0232] Optionally, the input interface 630 and the output interface 640 can be configured together.

[0233] Optionally, the chip can be applied to the access point device in the embodiments of this application, and the chip can implement the corresponding process of the first access point in the various methods of the embodiments of this application. For the sake of brevity, it will not be described in detail here.

[0234] Optionally, the chip can be applied to the site device in the embodiments of this application, and the chip can implement the corresponding processes implemented by the target site in the various methods of the embodiments of this application. For the sake of brevity, it will not be described in detail here.

[0235] It should be understood that the chip mentioned in the embodiments of this application may also be referred to as a system-on-a-chip, system chip, chip system, or system-on-a-chip, etc.

[0236] Figure 23 This is a schematic block diagram of a communication system 700 provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 23 As shown, the communication system 700 includes an access point device 710 and a site device 720.

[0237] The access point device 710 can be used to implement the corresponding functions implemented by the first access point in the above method, and the site device 720 can be used to implement the corresponding functions implemented by the target site in the above method. For the sake of brevity, these will not be elaborated here.

[0238] It should be understood that the processor in the embodiments of this application may be an integrated circuit chip with signal processing capabilities. In implementation, the steps of the above method embodiments can be completed by integrated logic circuits in the processor's hardware or by instructions in software form. The processor described above may be a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, or discrete hardware components. It can implement or execute the methods, steps, and logic block diagrams disclosed in the embodiments of this application. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor or any conventional processor. The steps of the methods disclosed in the embodiments of this application can be directly embodied in the execution of a hardware decoding processor, or executed by a combination of hardware and software modules in the decoding processor. The software modules may reside in random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable memory, registers, or other mature storage media in the art. The storage medium is located in the memory, and the processor reads the information in the memory and, in conjunction with its hardware, completes the steps of the above method.

[0239] It is understood that the memory in the embodiments of this application can be volatile memory or non-volatile memory, or may include both volatile and non-volatile memory. The non-volatile memory can be read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or flash memory. The volatile memory can be random access memory (RAM), which is used as an external cache. By way of example, but not limitation, many forms of RAM are available, such as Static Random Access Memory (SRAM), Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM), Synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), Double Data Rate SDRAM (DDR SDRAM), Enhanced Synchronous DRAM (ESDRAM), Synchlink DRAM (SLDRAM), and Direct Rambus RAM (DRRAM). It should be noted that the memory used in the systems and methods described herein is intended to include, but is not limited to, these and any other suitable types of memory.

[0240] It should be understood that the above-described memory is exemplary and not a limiting description. For example, the memory in the embodiments of this application may also be static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), double data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDRSDRAM), enhanced synchronous dynamic random access memory (ESDRAM), synchronous link dynamic random access memory (SLDRAM), and direct memory bus RAM (DR RAM), etc. That is to say, the memory in the embodiments of this application is intended to include, but is not limited to, these and any other suitable types of memory.

[0241] This application also provides a readable storage medium storing a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the various processes of the above-described method embodiments.

[0242] Optionally, the readable storage medium can be applied to the access point device in the embodiments of this application, and the computer program causes the processor to execute the corresponding process implemented by the first access point in the method embodiments of this application. To avoid repetition, it will not be described again here.

[0243] Optionally, the readable storage medium can be applied to the site device in the embodiments of this application, and the computer program causes the processor to execute the corresponding process implemented by the target site in the method embodiments of this application. To avoid repetition, it will not be described again here.

[0244] This application also provides a computer program product, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the various processes of the above-described method embodiments.

[0245] Optionally, the computer program product can be applied to the access point device in the embodiments of this application, and the computer program causes the processor to execute the corresponding process implemented by the first access point in the method embodiments of this application. To avoid repetition, it will not be described again here.

[0246] Optionally, the computer program product can be applied to the site device in the embodiments of this application, and the computer program causes the processor to execute the corresponding process implemented by the target site in the method embodiments of this application. To avoid repetition, it will not be described again here.

[0247] This application also provides a computer program. When executed by a processor, this computer program implements the various processes of the above-described method embodiments.

[0248] Optionally, the computer program can be applied to the access point device in the embodiments of this application. The computer program causes the processor to execute the corresponding process implemented by the first access point in the method embodiments of this application. To avoid repetition, it will not be described again here.

[0249] Optionally, the computer program can be applied to the site device in the embodiments of this application. The computer program causes the processor to execute the corresponding process implemented by the target site device in the method embodiments of this application. To avoid repetition, it will not be described again here.

[0250] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0251] Those skilled in the art will understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0252] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, apparatuses, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection between apparatuses or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0253] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0254] In addition, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit.

[0255] If the aforementioned functions are implemented as software functional units and sold or used as independent products, they can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or a portion of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes: USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, optical disks, and other media capable of storing program code.

[0256] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A channel switching method, characterized in that, Applied to a first access point, the method includes: The first access point sends an interference information request frame to the target site. The interference information request frame is used to request the target site to report the duration of the interference it is subjected to by the overlapping basic service set (OBSS). The first site is a site that is in the same basic service set (BSS) as the first access point and is in the non-main channel access main channel (NPCH). The target site includes at least one of the first sites. The first access point is an access point in the NPCH that is subjected to OBSS interference. Receive an interference information response frame from the target site, the interference response frame including the interference duration; The first access point sends a switchback time to all first stations, the switchback time being the time when the first station switches back to the main channel PCH from the NPCH, and the switchback time is determined based on the interference duration.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the number of the first sites is less than or equal to the preset number of sites, the target sites are all of the first sites; When the number of the first sites is greater than the preset number of sites, the target sites are a portion of the first sites, and the target sites are determined from the first sites by one of the following methods: Random dynamic sampling method, preset rule dynamic sampling method, or threshold triggering method.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The interference information request frame also carries OBSS information feedback index information, which is used to indicate the threshold conditions that the first access point needs to meet to request the target site to send back the interference information response frame. When the first access point determines the target site in a threshold-triggered manner, the OBSS information feedback indicator information includes at least one of a first OBSS network allocation vector NAV threshold and a second OBSS NAV threshold. The first OBSS NAV threshold is used to indicate the minimum threshold condition that the target site needs to satisfy when feeding back the interference information response frame, and the second OBSS NAV threshold is used to indicate the maximum threshold condition that the target site needs to satisfy when feeding back the interference information response frame.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The interference information request frame also carries request mode information, which is used by the first access point to instruct the target site to respond to the interference information reply frame in a specific mode. The response mode is one of the following: Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA) mode, polling mode, or uplink Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access Random Access (UORA) mode.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The interference information request frame also includes: HMAC (Hash Authentication Code) request information is used to request the target site to reply with HMAC signature information, which is used to verify whether the target site's identity information is secure.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The interference information request frame also includes at least one of the following: OBSS information response indication information is used to indicate whether the interference information request frame carries a first OBSS NAV threshold and / or a second OBSS NAV threshold. OBSS identification information, used to indicate the identifier of the OBSS that requested the target site to report the interference it was experiencing; The first OBSS NAV is used to indicate the duration of interference requested from the target site, which is being interfered with by OBSS.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The interference information request frame also includes at least one of the following: NPCH information, used to indicate the number of the NPCH; The UORA parameter set includes at least opportunity contention window information, contention window length information, contention window identifier, and contention window expansion identifier. The opportunity contention window information is used to indicate the initial contention window size range when the target site engages in UORA contention when the request mode information carried in the interference information request frame is in UORA mode. The contention window length information indicates the length of subsequent subfields. The contention window identifier indicates the identifier of the contention window. The contention window expansion identifier indicates the identifier of the expanded contention window when the number of contention windows is insufficient.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, The interference information response frame also includes at least one of the following: At least one OBSS information, the OBSS information including a second OBSS NAV and an OBSS identifier, wherein the second OBSS NAV is used to indicate the duration of the OBSS interference suffered by the target site, and the OBSS identifier is used to indicate the identifier of the OBSS that interfered with the target site; OBSS information length information, used to indicate the quantity of the OBSS information; HMAC signature information is used to instruct the first access point to verify whether the identity information of the target site is secure based on the HMAC signature information.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that, The method further includes: The system receives a switchback indication frame sent by the second access point. The switchback indication frame carries interference early termination information. The interference early termination information is used to indicate that the OBSS transmission opportunity TXOP on the PCH will end early, and the PCH can be switched back early. The second access point is a cooperative access point of the first access point.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, The method further includes: The second station receives the switchback indication frame sent through the first link. The switchback indication frame carries interference early termination information. The interference early termination information is used to indicate that the OBSS transmission opportunity TXOP on the PCH ends early and the PCH can be switched back early. The switchback indication frame shown is detected by the second station on the second link, the second link is the link where the PCH is located, the first link is a link different from the second link but connected to the first access point, and the second station is a multi-link device and an associated station of the first access point.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1-10, characterized in that, The method further includes: The first access point sends a beacon frame to all first stations before the target wake-up time service period set, or sends a switchback frame to all first stations during each target wake-up time period of the first access point. The beacon frame and switchback frame are generated in the presence of hidden access points and / or hidden stations that interfere with the PCH. Both must carry switchback indication information during the target wake-up time service period, which is used to instruct the first station to switch back to the PCH before the end of the target wake-up time service period set or before the end of OBSS NAV, or before the end of TWT SP during each target wake-up time service period. The target wake-up time service period set includes at least one of the TWT SPs.

12. The method according to any one of claims 1-11, characterized in that, The first access point sends the switchback time to all the first sites, including: The first access point sends the switchback time in a switchback frame to all the first stations, where the switchback time is the maximum time among the durations of the interference.

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The switchback frame also includes at least one of the following: The switchback mode information is used to indicate the switchback mode of the first station when switching back to the PCH. The switchback mode includes at least a first mode, a second mode, and a third mode. The first mode indicates that the first station switches back to the PCH after receiving the switchback frame and after a preset time interval. The second mode indicates that the first station switches back to the PCH according to the switchback time carried in the switchback frame after receiving the switchback frame. The third mode indicates that the first station switches back to the PCH according to the switchback indication information during the target wake-up time service period after receiving the switchback frame. Switchback time information is used to indicate the switchback time; The target wake-up time service period switchback condition information is used to instruct the first station to switch back to the PCH according to the time indicated by the target wake-up time service period switchback indication information when the switching mode is the third mode; The effective period information is used to indicate the effective SP period of the target wake-up time service period switchback condition information when the switching mode is that the first station receives the switchback frame and switches back to the PCH according to the target wake-up time service period switchback indication information. The effective service period quantity information is used to indicate the value of the first quantity when the switching mode is that the first station switches back to the PCH according to the indication time of the target wake-up time service period switchback indication information after receiving the switchback frame, and the effective SP period is a set first quantity.

14. A channel switching method, characterized in that, Applied to a target site, the method includes: The system receives an interference information request frame sent by a first access point. The interference information request frame is used to request the target site to report the duration of the OBSS interference it is experiencing. The first access point is an access point in the NPCH that is experiencing OBSS interference. The first site is a site in the same Basic Service Set (BSS) as the first access point and located in the NPCH. The target site includes at least one of the first sites. The interference information response frame is fed back to the first access point. The interference response frame includes the interference duration. The interference duration is used by the first access point to send the switchback time to all the first stations. The switchback time is the time when the first station switches back to the main channel PCH from the NPCH. The switchback time is determined based on the interference duration.

15. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that, When the number of the first sites is less than or equal to the preset number of sites, the target sites are all of the first sites; When the number of the first sites is greater than the preset number of sites, the target sites are a portion of the first sites, and the target sites are determined from the first sites by one of the following methods: Random dynamic sampling method, preset rule dynamic sampling method, or threshold triggering method.

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, When the first access point determines the target site in a threshold-triggered manner, the target site is determined by the threshold condition indicated by the OBSS information feedback index information carried in the interference information request frame; The threshold conditions include at least one of a first OBSS NAV threshold and a second OBSS NAV threshold. The first OBSS NAV threshold is used to indicate the minimum threshold condition that the target station needs to satisfy when feeding back the interference information response frame, and the second OBSS NAV threshold is used to indicate the maximum threshold condition that the target station needs to satisfy when feeding back the interference information response frame.

17. The method according to any one of claims 14-16, characterized in that, The interference information request frame also includes at least one of the following: The request mode information is used by the first access point to instruct the target site to send back the response mode of the interference information response frame, wherein the response mode is one of the following: Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA) mode, polling mode, or Uplink Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access Random Access (UORA) mode. HMAC request information is used to request the target site to reply with HMAC signature information, which is used to verify whether the identity information of the target site is secure. OBSS information response indication information is used to indicate whether the interference information request frame carries a first OBSS NAV threshold and / or a second OBSS NAV threshold. OBSS identification information, used to indicate the identifier of the OBSS that requested the target site to report the interference it was experiencing; The first OBSS NAV is used to indicate the duration of interference requested from the target site, which is being interfered with by OBSS. NPCH information, used to indicate the number of the NPCH; The UORA parameter set includes at least opportunity contention window information, contention window length information, contention window identifier, and contention window expansion identifier. The opportunity contention window information is used to indicate the initial contention window size range when the target site engages in UORA contention when the request mode information carried in the interference information request frame is in UORA mode. The contention window length information indicates the length of subsequent subfields. The contention window identifier indicates the identifier of the contention window. The contention window expansion identifier indicates the identifier of the expanded contention window when the number of contention windows is insufficient.

18. The method according to any one of claims 14-17, characterized in that, The interference information response frame also includes at least one of the following: At least one OBSS information, the OBSS information including a second OBSS NAV and an OBSS identifier, wherein the second OBSS NAV is used to indicate the duration of the OBSS interference suffered by the target site, and the OBSS identifier is used to indicate the identifier of the OBSS that interfered with the target site; OBSS information length information, used to indicate the quantity of the OBSS information; HMAC signature information is used to instruct the first access point to verify whether the identity information of the target site is secure based on the HMAC signature information.

19. The method according to any one of claims 14-18, characterized in that, The method further includes: The target site receives a switchback frame sent by the first access point. The switchback frame includes a switchback mode for switching back to the PCH. The switchback mode includes at least a first mode, a second mode, and a third mode. The first mode is used to indicate that the PCH will be switched back after a preset time interval after receiving the switchback frame. The second mode is used to indicate that the PCH will be switched back according to the switchback time in the switchback frame. The third mode is used to indicate that the PCH will be switched back according to the switchback indication information during the target wake-up time service period in the switchback frame. The target station switches back to the PCH according to the switchback mode; Wherein, the first mode is the mode formed after the first access point receives interference early termination information sent by the second access point or the second station. The interference early termination information is carried in the switchback indication frame sent by the second access point or the second station to the first access point. The interference early termination information is used to indicate that the OBSS TXOP on the PCH ends early, and the PCH can be switched back early. The target wake-up time service period switchback indication information is used to instruct the target station to switch back to the PCH before the end of the target wake-up time service period set or before the end of the OBSS NAV, or before the end of the TWT SP in each target wake-up time service period, in the case of the existence of hidden access points and / or hidden stations that interfere with the PCH. The target wake-up time service period set includes at least one of the TWT SPs.

20. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that, The switchback frame also includes at least one of the following: Switchback time information is used to indicate the switchback time; The target wake-up time service period handback condition information is used to instruct the first station to hand back to the PCH according to the target wake-up time service period handback indication information when the handover mode is that the first station receives the handback frame and then hands back to the PCH according to the target wake-up time service period handback indication information. The validity period information is used to indicate the valid SP period of the switchback condition information during the target wake-up time service when the switching mode is the third mode; The effective service period quantity information is used to indicate the value of the first quantity when the switching mode is that the first station switches back to the PCH according to the indication time of the target wake-up time service period switchback indication information after receiving the switchback frame, and the effective service period is a set first quantity.

21. A channel switching device, characterized in that, include: An interference information request frame sending module is used to send an interference information request frame to a target station. The interference information request frame is used to request the target station to provide feedback on the duration of interference it is subjected to by the overlapping basic service set (OBSS). The target station is some or all of the first stations. The first stations are stations that are in the same basic service set (BSS) as the first access point and are in the non-primary channel access main channel (NPCH). The target stations include at least one of the first stations. The first access point is the access point in the NPCH that is subjected to OBSS interference. An interference information response frame receiving module is used to receive interference information response frames fed back by the target station, wherein the interference response frame includes the interference duration; The switchback time transmission module is used to send the switchback time to all the first stations. The switchback time is the time when the first station switches back to the main channel PCH from the NPCH. The switchback time is determined based on the interference duration.

22. A channel switching device, characterized in that, include: The interference information request frame receiving module is used to receive an interference information request frame sent by a first access point. The interference information request frame is used to request the target site to report the duration of the interference it is subjected to by OBSS interference. The first access point is an access point that is subjected to OBSS interference and is located in the NPCH. The first site is a site that is in the same basic service set (BSS) as the first access point and is located in the NPCH. The target site includes at least one of the first sites. An interference information response frame feedback module is used to send an interference information response frame to the first access point. The interference response frame includes the interference duration. The interference duration is used by the first access point to send a switchback time to all the first stations. The switchback time is the time when the first station switches back to the main channel PCH from the NPCH. The switchback time is determined based on the interference duration.

Images