Prioritized channel access process for wireless networks

Abstract

The embodiment includes a station (STA) that can be authorized by an access point (AP) to send a delay signal that prevents other STAs from competing for the wireless medium during a specific time period, and the STA can be assisted in obtaining channel access to send low-latency frames. Thus, the AP can control the number of STAs that can send such delay signals to help reduce channel access latency and improve network performance.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to a wireless communication system, and more particularly to, for example, but not limited to, priority channel access in a wireless network. Background Technology

[0002] Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) technology has evolved towards higher data rates and has continued its growth in various markets such as homes, businesses, and hotspots for many years since the late 1990s. WLAN allows devices to access the Internet in the 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, 6 GHz, or 60 GHz frequency bands. WLAN is based on the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 standard. The IEEE 802.11 standard family is designed to improve speed and reliability and extend the operational range of wireless networks.

[0003] There is an increasing need for WLAN devices to support a variety of latency-sensitive or real-time applications, such as augmented reality (AR), robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and autonomous vehicles. To achieve the extremely low latency and extremely high throughput required for such applications, multi-link operation (MLO) has been proposed for WLANs. A WLAN is formed by WLAN devices within a limited area such as a home, school, apartment, or office building. Each WLAN device can have one or more stations (STAs), such as access point (AP) STAs and non-access point (non-AP) STAs.

[0004] MLO enables non-AP multi-link devices (MLDs) to establish multiple links with AP MLDs. Each of these links can independently enable channel access and frame switching between the non-AP MLD and the AP MLD, which can reduce latency and increase throughput.

[0005] The descriptions set forth in the Background section should not be assumed to be prior art simply because they are set forth in the Background section. The Background section may describe aspects or embodiments of this disclosure. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Technical solution One aspect of this disclosure includes a station (STA) in a wireless network, the STA including a memory; and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor is configured to send a delay signal to prevent one or more STAs from competing for a channel for a period of time. The processor is configured to compete for the channel and gain access to it. The processor is configured to send one or more frames to an access point (AP) via the channel.

[0007] In some examples, the processor is also configured to: send a first frame to the AP requesting authorization to transmit a delay signal that prevents one or more other STAs associated with the AP from competing for the channel; and receive a second frame from the AP that, in response to the first frame, authorizes the transmission of the delay signal.

[0008] In some examples, the processor is also configured to determine that the number of frame retransmissions exceeds a threshold before sending a delay signal.

[0009] In some examples, the processor is also configured to determine that the buffer delay used to send the frame is greater than a predetermined threshold before sending the delay signal.

[0010] In some examples, the processor is also configured to determine that the number of transmission attempts for the delayed signal is less than a threshold before sending the delayed signal.

[0011] In some examples, the processor is also configured to: receive from the AP a frame revoking authorization to send a delayed signal; and abandon sending the delayed signal in response to receiving the frame.

[0012] In some examples, the processor is also configured to receive from the AP a frame that includes a priority set of enhanced distributed channel access parameters, which gives high priority to STAs that are allowed to send low-latency services.

[0013] In some examples, the processor is also configured to determine that a particular frame is within a threshold of its expiration time before sending a delay signal.

[0014] In some examples, the processor is also configured to receive from the AP a frame that includes one or more pieces of information associated with eligibility to send a delay signal.

[0015] In some examples, the processor is also configured to receive frames from the AP that notify it of becoming eligible to send a delayed signal by one or more thresholds.

[0016] One aspect of this disclosure provides an access point (AP) in a wireless network, the AP including: a memory; and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor is configured to receive a first frame from a slave station (STA) requesting authorization to transmit a delayed signal, the delayed signal preventing one or more other STAs associated with the AP from competing for the channel. The processor is configured to send a second frame of the authorization delayed signal transmission to the STA in response to the first frame. The processor is configured to receive one or more frames from the STA via a channel.

[0017] In some examples, the processor is also configured to send a frame to the STA revoking the authorization to send a delay signal.

[0018] In some examples, the second frame includes a priority enhanced distributed channel access parameter set that gives high priority to STAs that are allowed to send low-latency services.

[0019] In some examples, the first frame includes timing information about the expiration time of a specific frame for the STA.

[0020] In some examples, the second frame includes one or more pieces of information associated with the eligibility to send a delayed signal.

[0021] One aspect of this disclosure provides a computer-implemented method for communication by stations (STAs) in a wireless network. The method includes sending a delay signal to prevent one or more STAs from competing for a channel for a period of time. The method includes competing for the channel and gaining access to it. The method also includes sending one or more frames to an access point (AP) via the channel.

[0022] In some examples, the method further includes: sending a first frame to the AP requesting authorization to transmit a delayed signal that prevents one or more other STAs associated with the AP from competing for the channel; and receiving from the AP a second frame that authorizes the transmission of the delayed signal in response to the first frame.

[0023] In some examples, the method also includes determining that the number of frame retransmissions exceeds a threshold before sending a delay signal.

[0024] In some examples, the method also includes determining that the buffer delay used to send the frame is greater than a predetermined threshold before sending the delay signal.

[0025] In some examples, the method further includes determining that the number of transmission attempts for the delayed signal is less than a threshold before sending the delayed signal.

[0026] In some examples, the method also includes receiving a frame from the AP revoking authorization to send a delayed signal. The method also includes abandoning the transmission of the delayed signal in response to receiving the frame.

[0027] In some examples, the method further includes receiving from the AP a frame that includes a priority enhanced distributed channel access parameter set, which gives high priority to STAs that are allowed to send low-latency services.

[0028] In some examples, the method also includes determining a threshold for the expiration time of a particular frame before sending a delay signal.

[0029] In some examples, the method also includes receiving from the AP a frame that includes one or more pieces of information associated with eligibility to send a delay signal.

[0030] In some examples, the method also includes receiving frames from the AP that notify the user of becoming eligible to send a delayed signal by one or more thresholds.

[0031] One aspect of this disclosure provides a computer-implemented method for communicating with an access point (AP) in a wireless network. The method includes receiving a first frame from a slave station (STA) requesting a transmission delay signal that prevents one or more other STAs associated with the AP from competing for the channel. The method includes sending a second frame to the STA in response to the first frame, also requesting the transmission delay signal. The method includes receiving one or more frames from the STA via a channel.

[0032] In some examples, the method also includes sending a frame to the STA revoking the authorization to send a delayed signal.

[0033] In some examples, the second frame includes a priority enhanced distributed channel access parameter set that gives high priority to STAs that are allowed to send low-latency services.

[0034] In some examples, the first frame includes timing information about the expiration time of a specific frame for the STA.

[0035] In some examples, the second frame includes one or more pieces of information associated with the eligibility to send a delayed signal. Attached Figure Description

[0036] Figure 1 An example of a wireless network according to an embodiment is shown.

[0037] Figure 2a An example of an AP according to an embodiment is shown.

[0038] Figure 2b An example of a STA according to an embodiment is shown.

[0039] Figure 3 An example of multi-link communication operation according to an embodiment is shown.

[0040] Figure 4 An example of the transmission of a delayed signal according to an embodiment is shown.

[0041] Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating an example process of a STA sending a delayed signal according to an embodiment is shown.

[0042] Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating an example process by which an AP grants membership to one or more of its associated STAs, according to an embodiment, is shown.

[0043] Figure 7 A flowchart illustrating an example process by which an AP grants unsolicited membership to a STA according to an embodiment is shown.

[0044] Figure 8 The illustration shows a priority EDCA (Enhanced Distributed Channel Access) authorization based on a service profile, according to an embodiment.

[0045] Figure 9 A flowchart illustrating an example process by which a STA sends a delayed signal based on the number of transmissions, according to an embodiment, is shown.

[0046] Figure 10 A flowchart illustrating an example process by which a STA sends a delay signal based on an expiration time, according to an embodiment, is shown.

[0047] Figure 11 A flowchart illustrating an example process by which a STA sends a delayed signal based on the number of transmissions, according to an embodiment, is shown.

[0048] Figure 12 The format of the parameter set elements according to an embodiment is shown.

[0049] Figure 13 The parameter set element format according to an embodiment is shown.

[0050] Figure 14 A flowchart illustrating an example procedure for authorization based on Quality of Service (QoS) settings, according to an embodiment, is shown.

[0051] Figure 15 A flowchart illustrating an example process by which an AP provides authorization based on a Restricted Target Wake-Up Time (R-TWT) setting, according to an embodiment, is shown.

[0052] Figure 16 An example of an aid from an AP is shown according to an embodiment.

[0053] Figure 17 The AP is shown clearing the channel for the STA according to an embodiment.

[0054] Figure 18 The example illustrates how an AP sends a delayed signal based on an instruction from a STA.

[0055] Figure 19 The example illustrates how an AP, according to an embodiment, sends a delay signal at the start of an R-TWT SP to assist a low-latency STA. Detailed Implementation

[0056] The specific embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are intended to be descriptions of various implementations and not to represent the only implementations in which the subject matter can be practiced. Rather, the detailed description includes specific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understanding of the subject matter of the invention. As those skilled in the art will recognize, the described embodiments can be modified in various ways without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Therefore, the drawings and descriptions should be considered illustrative in nature and not restrictive. The same reference numerals denote the same elements.

[0057] For the purpose of describing the innovative aspects of this disclosure, the following description is directed to certain embodiments. However, those skilled in the art will readily recognize that the technical solutions described herein can be applied in a variety of different ways. The examples in this disclosure are based on WLAN communication according to the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 standard (including the IEEE 802.11be standard and any future revisions to the IEEE 802.11 standard). However, the described embodiments can be implemented in any device, system, or network capable of transmitting and receiving radio frequency (RF) signals according to: IEEE 802.11 standard, Bluetooth standard, Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), GSM / General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), Enhanced Data GSM Environment (EDGE), Terrestrial Trunking Radio (TETRA), Wideband CDMA (W-CDMA), Evolved Data Optimized (EV-DO), 1xEV-DO, EV-DO Rev A, EV-DO Rev B, High-Speed ​​Packet Access (HSPA), High-Speed ​​Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA), High-Speed ​​Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA), Evolved High-Speed ​​Packet Access (HSPA+), Long Term Evolution (LTE), 5G NR (New Radio), AMPS, or other known signals used for communication within wireless, cellular, or Internet of Things (IoT) networks, such as systems utilizing 3G, 4G, 5G, 6G, or other implementations or technologies thereof.

[0058] Depending on the network type, other well-known terms (such as "router" or "gateway") may be used instead of "access point" or "AP". For convenience, the term "AP" is used in this disclosure to refer to a network infrastructure component that provides wireless access to remote terminals. In a WLAN, assuming that the AP also competes for a wireless channel, the AP may also be referred to as a STA. Furthermore, depending on the network type, other well-known terms (such as "mobile station", "subscriber station", "remote terminal", "user equipment", "wireless terminal", or "user equipment") may be used instead of "station" or "STA". For convenience, the terms "station" and "STA" are used in this disclosure to refer to a remote wireless device that wirelessly accesses an AP or competes for a wireless channel in a WLAN, whether the STA is a mobile device (such as a mobile phone or smartphone) or is generally considered to be a fixed device (such as a desktop computer, AP, media player, fixed sensor, television, etc.).

[0059] Multilink Operation (MLO) is a key feature currently being developed by the standards body for next-generation Ultra High Throughput (EHT) Wi-Fi systems in IEEE 802.11be. Wi-Fi devices that support MLO are called Multilink Devices (MLDs). Using MLO, a non-AP MLD can discover, authenticate, associate, and establish multiple links with an AP MLD. Channel access and frame switching are possible on each link between the AP MLD and the non-AP MLD.

[0060] Figure 1 An example of a wireless network 100 according to an embodiment is shown. Figure 1 The illustrated embodiment of the wireless network 100 is for illustrative purposes only. Other embodiments of the wireless network 100 may be used without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0061] like Figure 1 As shown, wireless network 100 may include multiple wireless communication devices. Each wireless communication device may include one or more stations (STAs). An STA may be a logical entity that serves as a separate addressable instance of the Media Access Control (MAC) layer and the physical (PHY) layer interface to the wireless medium. STAs may be classified as Access Point (AP) STAs and Non-Access Point (Non-AP) STAs. An AP STA may be an entity that provides access to the distribution system services to associated STAs via the wireless medium. A Non-AP STA may be a STA that is not included within an AP STA. For the sake of simplicity, an AP STA may be referred to as an AP, and a Non-AP STA may be referred to as a STA. Figure 1In the example, APs 101 and 103 are wireless communication devices, each of which may include one or more AP STAs. In such an embodiment, APs 101 and 103 may be AP multilink devices (MLDs). Similarly, STAs 111-114 are wireless communication devices, each of which may include one or more non-AP STAs. In such an embodiment, STAs 111-114 may be non-AP MLDs.

[0062] APs 101 and 103 communicate with at least one network 130, such as the Internet, a proprietary Internet Protocol (IP) network, or other data network. AP 101 provides wireless access to network 130 for multiple stations (STAs) 111-114 within its coverage area 120. APs 101 and 103 can communicate with each other and with STAs using Wi-Fi or other WLAN communication technologies.

[0063] Depending on the network type, other well-known terms (such as "router" or "gateway") may be used instead of "access point" or "AP". For convenience, the term "AP" is used in this disclosure to refer to a network infrastructure component that provides wireless access to remote terminals. In a WLAN, assuming that the AP also competes for a wireless channel, the AP may also be referred to as a STA. Furthermore, depending on the network type, other well-known terms (such as "mobile station", "subscriber station", "remote terminal", "user equipment", "wireless terminal", or "user equipment") may be used instead of "station" or "STA". For convenience, the terms "station" and "STA" are used in this disclosure to refer to a remote wireless device that wirelessly accesses an AP or competes for a wireless channel in a WLAN, whether the STA is a mobile device (such as a mobile phone or smartphone) or is generally considered to be a fixed device (such as a desktop computer, AP, media player, fixed sensor, television, etc.).

[0064] exist Figure 1 In the diagram, the dashed lines indicate the approximate extent of the coverage areas 120 and 125 of APs 101 and 103, which are shown as approximately circular for illustrative and explanatory purposes. It should be clearly understood that, depending on the configuration of the APs, the coverage areas associated with the APs (such as coverage areas 120 and 125) may have other shapes, including irregular shapes.

[0065] As described in more detail below, one or more APs may include circuitry and / or programming for managing MU-MIMO and OFDMA channel probing in a WLAN. Although Figure 1 An example of a wireless network 100 is shown, but more details can be found on other wireless networks. Figure 1Various modifications can be made. For example, wireless network 100 can include any number of APs and any number of STAs in any suitable arrangement. Furthermore, AP 101 can communicate directly with any number of STAs and provide these STAs with wireless broadband access to network 130. Similarly, each AP 101 and 103 can communicate directly with network 130 and provide STAs with direct wireless broadband access to network 130. Additionally, AP 101 and / or 103 can provide access to other or additional external networks, such as external telephone networks or other types of data networks.

[0066] Figure 2a An example of AP 101 according to an embodiment is shown. Figure 2a The embodiment of AP 101 shown is for illustrative purposes, and Figure 1 AP 103 can have the same or similar configuration. However, APs have a wide range of configurations, and Figure 2a This disclosure is not intended to limit the scope to any particular implementation of AP.

[0067] like Figure 2a As shown, AP 101 may include multiple antennas 204a-204n, multiple radio frequency (RF) transceivers 209a-209n, transmit (TX) processing circuitry 214, and receive (RX) processing circuitry 219. AP 101 may also include a controller / processor 224, a memory 229, and a backhaul or network interface 234. RF transceivers 209a-209n receive incoming RF signals from antennas 204a-204n, such as signals transmitted by STAs in network 100. RF transceivers 209a-209n down-convert the incoming RF signals to generate intermediate (IF) or baseband signals. The IF or baseband signals are sent to RX processing circuitry 219, which generates processed baseband signals by filtering, decoding, and / or digitizing the baseband or IF signals. RX processing circuitry 219 sends the processed baseband signals to controller / processor 224 for further processing.

[0068] TX processing circuit 214 receives analog or digital data (such as voice data, web data, email, or interactive video game data) from controller / processor 224. TX processing circuit 214 encodes, multiplexes, and / or digitizes the outgoing baseband data to generate processed baseband or IF signals. RF transceivers 209a-209n receive the processed baseband or IF signals from TX processing circuit 214 and up-convert the baseband or IF signals into RF signals transmitted via antennas 204a-204n.

[0069] The controller / processor 224 may include one or more processors or other processing devices that control the overall operation of the AP 101. For example, the controller / processor 224 may control the reception of uplink signals and the transmission of downlink signals by the RF transceivers 209a-209n, the RX processing circuitry 219, and the TX processing circuitry 214 according to known principles. The controller / processor 224 may also support additional functions, such as more advanced wireless communication functions. For example, the controller / processor 224 may support beamforming or directional routing operations, where outgoing signals from multiple antennas 204a-204n are weighted differently to effectively guide the outgoing signals in a desired direction. The controller / processor 224 may also support OFDMA operations, where outgoing signals are assigned to different subsets of subcarriers from different receivers (e.g., different STAs 111-114). The controller / processor 224 may support any of a variety of other functions in the AP 101, including combinations of DL MU-MIMO and OFDMA in the same transmission phase. In some examples, controller / processor 224 may include at least one microprocessor or microcontroller. Controller / processor 224 is also capable of executing programs and other processes, such as an operating system, residing in memory 229. Controller / processor 224 may move data into or out of memory 229 as needed for the execution process.

[0070] The controller / processor 224 is also coupled to a backhaul or network interface 234. The backhaul or network interface 234 allows the AP 101 to communicate with other devices or systems via a backhaul connection or over a network. Interface 234 can support communication via any suitable wired or wireless connection. For example, interface 234 can allow the AP 101 to communicate via a wired or wireless local area network or via a wired or wireless connection to a larger network, such as the Internet. Interface 234 can include any suitable structure that supports communication via a wired or wireless connection, such as an Ethernet or RF transceiver. Memory 229 is coupled to the controller / processor 224. A portion of memory 229 can include RAM, and another portion of memory 229 can include flash memory or other ROM.

[0071] As described in more detail below, AP 101 may include circuitry and / or programming for managing the channel detection process in a WLAN. Although Figure 2a An example of AP 101 is shown, but it is possible to compare it with other versions. Figure 2a Various changes can be made. For example, AP101 may include... Figure 2aEach component can be any number shown. As a particular example, the AP may include multiple interfaces 234, and the controller / processor 224 may support routing functionality to route data between different network addresses. As another example, although shown as a single instance including TX processing circuitry 214 and a single instance including RX processing circuitry 219, AP 101 may include multiple instances of each (such as one per RF transceiver). Alternatively, as in a conventional AP, it may include only one antenna and RF transceiver path. Furthermore, Figure 2a The various components can be combined, further subdivided, or omitted, and additional components can be added as needed.

[0072] like Figure 2a As shown, in some examples, AP 101 may be an AP MLD comprising multiple APs 202a-202n. Each AP 202a to 202n is attached to AP MLD 101 and includes multiple antennas 204a-204n, multiple radio frequency (RF) transceivers 209a-209n, transmit (TX) processing circuitry 214, and receive (RX) processing circuitry 219. Each AP 202a-202n may independently communicate with the controller / processor 224 and other components of AP MLD 101. Figure 2a The diagram shows that each AP 202a-202n has multiple antennas individually, but each AP 202a-202n can share multiple antennas 204a-204n without requiring separate multiple antennas. Each AP 202a-202n can represent the physical (PHY) layer and the lower medium access control (MAC) layer.

[0073] Figure 2b An example of STA 111 according to an embodiment is shown. Figure 2b The embodiment of STA 111 shown is for illustrative purposes, and Figure 1 STAs 111-114 can have the same or similar configurations. However, STAs have a wide variety of configurations, and Figure 2b This disclosure is not intended to limit the scope to any particular implementation of STA.

[0074] like Figure 2b As shown, STA 111 may include an antenna 205, an RF transceiver 210, a TX processing circuit 215, a microphone 220, and an RX processing circuit 225. STA 111 may also include a speaker 230, a controller / processor 240, an input / output (I / O) interface (IF) 245, a touchscreen 250, a display 255, and a memory 260. The memory 260 may include an operating system (OS) 261 and one or more applications 262.

[0075] RF transceiver 210 receives incoming RF signals transmitted by the AP of network 100 from antenna 205. RF transceiver 210 down-converts the incoming RF signals to generate IF or baseband signals. The IF or baseband signals are sent to RX processing circuitry 225, which generates processed baseband signals by filtering, decoding, and / or digitizing the baseband or IF signals. RX processing circuitry 225 sends the processed baseband signals to speaker 230 (e.g., for voice data) or to controller / processor 240 for further processing (e.g., for web browsing data).

[0076] TX processing circuitry 215 receives analog or digital voice data from microphone 220 or other outgoing baseband data (such as web data, email, or interactive video game data) from controller / processor 240. TX processing circuitry 215 encodes, multiplexes, and / or digitizes the outgoing baseband data to generate processed baseband or IF signals. RF transceiver 210 receives the processed baseband or IF signals from TX processing circuitry 215 and up-converts the baseband or IF signals into RF signals transmitted via antenna 205.

[0077] The controller / processor 240 may include one or more processors and executes a basic OS program 261 stored in memory 260 to control the overall operation of STA 111. In one such operation, the controller / processor 240 controls the RF transceiver 210, RX processing circuitry 225, and TX processing circuitry 215 to receive downlink signals and transmit uplink signals according to known principles. The controller / processor 240 may also include processing circuitry configured to provide management of the channel detection process in the WLAN. In some examples, the controller / processor 240 may include at least one microprocessor or microcontroller.

[0078] The controller / processor 240 is also capable of executing other processes and programs residing in memory 260, such as operations for managing channel sensing processes in the WLAN. The controller / processor 240 can move data into or out of memory 260 as needed for the execution of processes. In some examples, the controller / processor 240 is configured to execute multiple applications 262, such as applications for channel sensing, including feedback calculations based on received Null Data Packet Advertisements (NDPA) and Null Data Packets (NDP), and sending beamforming feedback reports in response to trigger frames (TF). The controller / processor 240 can operate multiple applications 262 based on OS programs 261 or in response to signals received from the AP. The controller / processor 240 is also coupled to I / O interface 245, which provides the STA 111 with the ability to connect to other devices, such as laptops and handheld computers. I / O interface 245 is the communication path between these accessories and the main controller / processor 240.

[0079] The controller / processor 240 is also coupled to input 250 (such as a touchscreen) and display 255. The operator of STA 111 can use input 250 to input data into STA 111. Display 255 may be a liquid crystal display, a light-emitting diode display, or other display capable of displaying text and / or at least limited graphics from a website. Memory 260 is coupled to the controller / processor 240. A portion of memory 260 may include random access memory (RAM), and another portion of memory 260 may include flash memory or other read-only memory (ROM).

[0080] although Figure 2b An example of STA 111 is shown, but it is possible to compare it with other models. Figure 2b Make various changes. For example, Figure 2b The various components can be combined, further subdivided, or omitted, and additional components can be added as needed. In a specific example, STA 111 may include any number of antennas 205 for MIMO communication with AP 101. In another example, STA 111 may not include voice communication, or the controller / processor 240 may be divided into multiple processors, such as one or more central processing units (CPUs) and one or more graphics processing units (GPUs). Furthermore, although... Figure 2b The STA 111 is shown configured as a mobile phone or smartphone, but the STA can be configured to operate as other types of mobile or fixed devices.

[0081] like Figure 2bAs shown, in some examples, STA 111 may be a non-AP MLD comprising multiple STAs 203a-203n. Each STA 203a-203n is attached to the non-AP MLD 111 and includes an antenna 205, an RF transceiver 210, a TX processing circuit 215, and an RX processing circuit 225. Each STA 203a-203n may independently communicate with the controller / processor 240 and other components of the non-AP MLD 111. Figure 2b It is shown that each STA 203a-203n has a separate antenna, but each STA 203a-203n can share antenna 205 without requiring a separate antenna. Each STA 203a-203n can represent the physical (PHY) layer and the lower medium access control (MAC) layer.

[0082] Figure 3 An example of multi-link communication operation according to an embodiment is shown. Multi-link communication operation can be used in the IEEE 802.11be standard and any future revisions to the IEEE 802.11 standard. Figure 3 In the middle, AP MLD 310 can be Figure 1 Wireless communication devices 101 and 103 are included, and the non-AP MLD 220 can be... Figure 1 One of the wireless communication devices 111-114 in the series.

[0083] like Figure 3 As shown, AP MLD 310 may include multiple auxiliary APs, such as AP 1, AP 2, and AP 3. Each auxiliary AP may include a PHY interface to the wireless medium (Link 1, Link 2, or Link 3). AP MLD 310 may include a single MAC Service Access Point (SAP) 318 through which the auxiliary APs of AP MLD 310 communicate with higher layers (Layer 3 or network layer). Each auxiliary AP of AP MLD 310 may have a different MAC address (lower MAC address) than any other auxiliary AP of AP MLD 310. AP MLD 310 may have an MLD MAC address (higher MAC address), and the auxiliary APs share a single MACSAP 318 with Layer 3. Therefore, the auxiliary APs share a single IP address, and Layer 3 identifies AP MLD 310 by assigning a single IP address.

[0084] A non-AP MLD 320 may include multiple affiliated STAs, such as STA 1, STA 2, and STA 3. Each affiliated STA may include a PHY interface to the wireless medium (Link 1, Link 2, or Link 3). A non-AP MLD 320 may include a single MAC SAP 328, through which affiliated STAs communicate with higher layers (Layer 3 or network layer). Each affiliated STA of a non-AP MLD 320 may have a different MAC address (lower MAC address) than any other affiliated STA of the non-AP MLD 320. A non-AP MLD 320 may have an MLD MAC address (higher MAC address), and the affiliated STAs share the single MAC SAP 328 with Layer 3. Therefore, the affiliated STAs share a single IP address, and Layer 3 identifies the non-AP MLD 320 by assigning this single IP address.

[0085] AP MLD 310 and non-AP MLD 320 can establish multiple links between their associated APs and STAs. In this example, AP 1 and STA 1 can establish Link 1, operating in the 2.4 GHz band. Similarly, AP 2 and STA 2 can establish Link 2, operating in the 5 GHz band, and AP 3 and STA 3 can establish Link 3, operating in the 6 GHz band. Each link can independently enable channel access and frame switching between AP MLD 310 and non-AP MLD 320, which can increase data throughput and reduce latency. When associated with an AP MLD on a set of links (link establishment), each non-AP device is assigned a unique Association Identifier (AID).

[0086] The following documents are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, as if fully set forth herein: i) IEEE 802.11-2020, “Wireless LAN Medium Access Control (MAC) and Physical Layer (PHY) Specifications”, ii) IEEE 802.11ax-2021, “Wireless LAN Medium Access Control (MAC) and Physical Layer (PHY) Specifications”, and ii) IEEE P802.11be / D5.0, “Wireless LAN Medium Access Control (MAC) and Physical Layer (PHY) Specifications”.

[0087] Devices (e.g., STAs) may encounter channel access delays when attempting to transmit frames. To reduce channel access delays, in media access protocols based on Distributed Coordination Function (DCF), devices can use Carrier Sense Multiple Access (CSMA / CA) with collision avoidance in conjunction with a random backoff process. Devices may also need to back off ongoing transmissions on the channel to avoid collisions or interference from ongoing transmissions. The channel access duration can increase with the backoff time for other STAs on the same channel. In dense networks, this can act as a bottleneck that needs to be addressed to reduce latency and support ultra-low latency (LL) applications. For some STAs with latency-sensitive services, the impact of this channel access delay can be significant. For example, for some applications, channel access delays in the wireless network can make it difficult to support application operation because packets may expire during the channel access phase.

[0088] Embodiments of this disclosure can prevent other STAs from accessing the channel to reduce contention on the radio medium. In some examples, a STA with a low-latency traffic backlog can send a delay signal (DS), which may be referred to herein as a blocking signal, delay message, or blocking message, to prevent other devices (e.g., devices that cannot or have not yet sent such a delay signal) from competing for the radio medium for a certain period of time. In some examples, the delay signal is a signal that prevents different STAs (e.g., legacy STAs) from competing for channel access. In some examples, the delay signal can be designed such that it can include frames with errors or incorrect Frame Check Sequence (FCS) values ​​in the PHY-RXEND.indication primitive. In some examples, the modulation of the delay signal can be used to control the duration for which legacy STAs are prevented from competing for the radio medium. In some examples, depending on the modulation scheme, the legacy device can calculate the extended interframe interval (EIFS) duration, which can vary based on the modulation scheme of the frame that pushes the legacy device into the EIFS state, and the EIFS duration can be the time during which the legacy device will not access the channel. Preventing other devices from competing for the wireless medium during a specific time period may be referred to herein as a protected short contention period, prioritized EDCA, or enhanced EDCA. In particular, a protected short contention period can be the duration during which other devices are prevented from competing for the channel and only devices that have already transmitted a delay signal can compete for the channel.

[0089] However, if devices with low-latency services begin sending delayed signals, this can degrade the performance of low-latency applications running on legacy devices. Therefore, a procedure to control the number of devices that can send this delay can be beneficial.

[0090] Figure 4An example of the transmission of a delayed signal according to an embodiment is shown. Specifically, Figure 4 The communication between AP, STA1, STA2, and STA3 is illustrated. After the known time boundary 401, both STA2 and STA3 send corresponding delay signals 403 and 405. Delay signals 403 and 405 can be used to prevent other devices (AP and STA1) from competing for the radio medium during a certain time period. Therefore, during time period 407, AP is in the Extended Inter-Frame Spacing (EIFS) or has set the Network Allocation Vector (NAV), thus AP does not transmit anything during this time period. Similarly, STA1 is in the EIFS or has set the NAV, thus STA1 does not transmit anything during this time period. Therefore, for channel access, there is priority EDCA contention between STA2 and STA3. During time period 409, STA2 obtains channel access and thus performs data transmission 411, while the channel is unavailable to AP, STA1, and STA3.

[0091] There may be many situations where a STA may need channel access or may require some assistance from an AP. The AP may also face delays in accessing the channel (e.g., due to a large number of devices). In such cases, the AP may need to prevent other devices from occupying the channel in order to be able to assist the STA. Embodiments of this disclosure provide techniques to improve the AP's ability to assist the STA in obtaining channel access.

[0092] In some examples, an AP can grant membership to one or more of its associated STAs, authorizing them to send delayed signals. Membership can be granted unsolicited or upon request from an STA.

[0093] In some examples, the STA may send a membership request message that may include at least one or more information items as indicated in Table 1.

[0094] Table 1 shows the membership request message content according to an embodiment.

[0095] [Table 1]

[0096] The information items in Table 1 can be sent together or separately. They can be sent as part of any existing frame, element, field, or subfield in the standard, or they can be part of a newly defined frame, element, field, or subfield.

[0097] Table 2 shows examples of request instructions according to an embodiment.

[0098] [Table 2]

[0099] Upon receiving a membership request message, the AP may send a membership response message to the STA. The response message may include at least one or more information items as shown in Table 3.

[0100] Table 3 shows the membership response message content according to an embodiment.

[0101] [Table 3]

[0102] The information items in Table 3 can be sent together or separately. They can be sent as part of any existing frame, element, field, or subfield in the standard, or they can be part of a newly defined frame, element, field, or subfield. Membership authorization response messages can also be sent unsolicited.

[0103] Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating an example process of a STA transmitting a delayed signal according to an embodiment is shown. Although one or more operations are described or shown in a specific order, in some examples, the operations may be rearranged in a different order, which may include performing multiple operations in at least partially overlapping time periods. Figure 5 The flowchart depicted in the diagram shows the process in STA (such as...) Figure 3 The operations performed in the STA shown in the figure.

[0104] In process 500, in operation 501, the STA determines whether it wants to send a delayed signal. If the STA determines that it does not want to send a delayed signal, then in operation 503, the STA does not perform any action. If the STA determines that it does want to send a delayed signal, the process proceeds to operation 505.

[0105] In Operation 505, the STA sends a membership request message to the AP. In some examples, the membership request message may include information as illustrated in Table 1. Specifically, the request message may include a request indication that the STA is requesting authorization to send a delayed signal to the AP. The request message may include a duration indicating the duration for which membership is being requested. The request message may include the type of service indicating the type of service for which membership is being requested. The request message may include a start time indication describing the start time of the request. The request message may include service characteristic information describing the service characteristics (e.g., the QoS characteristics of the service flow) for which membership is being requested.

[0106] Figure 6A flowchart illustrating an example process by which an AP, according to an embodiment, grants membership to one or more of its associated STAs to authorize them to send delayed signals is shown. Although one or more operations are described or shown in a specific order, in some examples, the operations may be rearranged in a different order, which may include performing multiple operations in at least partially overlapping time periods. Figure 6 The flowchart depicted in the diagram illustrates the process in AP (such as...) Figure 3 The operations performed in the AP shown in the figure.

[0107] In process 600, in operation 601, the AP determines whether it has received a request from the STA for authorization to send a delayed signal. If the AP has not received the request from the STA, the process proceeds to operation 603, where the AP does not perform any action. If the AP has indeed received the request from the STA, the process proceeds to operation 605.

[0108] In Operation 605, the AP processes the request and sends a response message to the STA. In some examples, the response message may include one or more information items provided in Table 3. The response message may include a response indication indicating that the AP is responding to the STA's request to authorize the sending of a delay signal. The response message may include a response indication indicating the AP's response to the request (e.g., a status code indicating the status of the request, such as success or rejection). The response message may include duration information indicating the duration for which membership is granted. The response message may include service type information indicating the type of service for which membership is granted. The response message may include one or more STA identifiers identifying the STA to which the grant has been made. The response message may include an grant start indication time indicating the start time of the STA's membership or authorization.

[0109] Figure 7 A flowchart illustrating an example process by which an AP grants unsolicited membership to a STA according to an embodiment is shown. Although one or more operations are described or shown in a specific order, in some examples, the operations may be rearranged in a different order, which may include performing multiple operations in at least partially overlapping time periods. Figure 7 The flowchart depicted in the diagram illustrates the process in AP (such as...) Figure 3 The operations performed in the AP shown in the figure.

[0110] In process 700, in operation 701, the AP determines whether it wants to authorize the STA to send a delayed signal. If the AP determines that it does not want to authorize the STA to send a delayed signal, the process proceeds to operation 703, where the AP does not perform any action. If the AP determines that it does want to authorize the STA to send a delayed signal, the process proceeds to operation 705.

[0111] In Operation 705, the AP sends an unsolicited authorization message to the STA. In some examples, the authorization message may include the information listed in Table 3.

[0112] In some examples, membership can be acquired to use deferred signaling (blocking message passing) for a specific set of frames (e.g., Access Class (AC), TID, etc.). In some examples, some ACs can acquire membership, while others can be allowed by default.

[0113] In some examples, membership can be acquired by enhancing one or more existing processes or implementing new processes (e.g., enhancements to Flow Classification Service (SCS) processes or messages). An SCS request frame may include information items (e.g., flags) that indicate whether the request is for prioritized EDCA authorization for that specific service profile. In some examples, there may be service profiles that allow for prioritized EDCA authorization or that allow devices to send delay signals for them.

[0114] Figure 8 This illustrates a priority-based EDCA authorization based on a business configuration file, according to an embodiment. Specifically, Figure 8 The diagram illustrates communication between an AP and STA1, where STA1 may have already been authorized for prioritized EDCA for a specific service profile using modified SCS request and response message exchanges. If STA1 has services corresponding to that specific service profile, STA1 can send a request message 801 to activate prioritized EDCA using a deferred signal. The AP can respond to request message 801 by sending a response message 803 authorizing prioritized EDCA. After this, and starting from time period 805, STA1 can begin sending deferred signals to activate prioritized EDCA for the specified service profile. In some examples, if STA1 has already been authorized for prioritized EDCA for a specific service profile, STA1 can send a deferred signal whenever it has services corresponding to that service profile.

[0115] In some examples, a device may send a delay signal if it has low-latency (LL) traffic with a latency tolerance below a predetermined threshold. In some examples, a device may send a delay signal if it has LL frames with a tolerance less than the channel access delay for the radio medium. In some examples, the predetermined threshold may be a device with a latency tolerance on the order of milliseconds. In some examples, an STA may send a delay signal if its LL frame is nearing its expiration date. In some examples, an STA may send a delay signal when the buffer delay of a MAC Service Data Unit (MSDU) of a traffic flow with known latency limits approaches the threshold.

[0116] Figure 9 A flowchart illustrating an example process by which a STA sends a delayed signal based on the number of transmissions, according to an embodiment, is shown. Although one or more operations are described or shown in a specific order, in some examples, the operations may be rearranged in a different order, which may include performing multiple operations in at least partially overlapping time periods. Figure 9 The flowchart depicted in the diagram shows the process in STA (such as...) Figure 3 The operations performed in the STA shown in the figure.

[0117] In process 900, in operation 901, the STA determines whether it has yielded a predetermined number of transmissions. If the STA determines that it has not yielded the predetermined number of transmissions, the process proceeds to operation 903, where the STA does not perform any action. If the STA determines that it has yielded the predetermined number of transmissions, the process proceeds to operation 905.

[0118] In Operation 905, the STA sends a delay signal. In some examples, the delay signal can prevent other devices (e.g., devices that cannot or have not yet sent such a delay signal) from competing for the wireless medium for a specific time period.

[0119] Figure 10 A flowchart illustrating an example process of a STA sending a delayed signal based on an expiration time, according to an embodiment, is provided. Although one or more operations are described or shown in a specific order, in some examples, the operations may be rearranged in a different order, which may include performing multiple operations in at least partially overlapping time periods. Figure 10 The flowchart depicted in the diagram shows the process in STA (such as...) Figure 3 The operations performed in the STA shown in the figure.

[0120] In process 1001, the STA determines whether it has a low-latency frame that is close to expiring. If the STA determines that it does not have a low-latency frame that is close to expiring, the process proceeds to operation 1003, in which the STA does not perform any action. If the STA determines that it has a low-latency frame that is close to expiring, the process proceeds to operation 1005.

[0121] In operation 1005, STA sends a delay signal.

[0122] Figure 11 A flowchart illustrating an example process by which a STA sends a delayed signal based on the number of transmissions, according to an embodiment, is shown. Although one or more operations are described or shown in a specific order, in some examples, the operations may be rearranged in a different order, which may include performing multiple operations in at least partially overlapping time periods. Figure 11The flowchart depicted in the diagram shows the process in STA (such as...) Figure 3 The operations performed in the STA shown in the figure.

[0123] In process 1100, in operation 1101, the STA determines whether it has sent or retransmitted K times. If the STA determines that it has not sent or retransmitted K times, the process proceeds to operation 1103, where the STA does not perform any action. If the STA determines that it has sent or retransmitted K times, the process proceeds to operation 1105.

[0124] In operation 1105, the STA sends a delay signal.

[0125] In some examples, if the device is part of a Restricted Target Wake-Up Time (R-TWT) setting, the device can send a delay signal during the quiet period at the start of the Service Period (SP) to block legacy devices. In some examples, if the STA has Emergency Prepared Communications Service (EPCS) authorization, the STA can send a delay signal. In some examples, if the STA has yielded X transmissions, it can become eligible to send a delay signal. In some examples, if the STA has delayed for an amount of time T, it can become eligible to send a delay signal.

[0126] In some examples, if the STA discards Y packets (e.g., due to exceeding a delay limit or due to packets expiring because the STA cannot capture the channel), the STA may become eligible to send a delay signal. In some examples, once the STA sends a delay signal, the metrics described herein (e.g., transmissions, time, number of packets, etc.) can be reset.

[0127] In some examples, metrics can be computed over time windows. A window can be a running window or a fixed window. If each window is a fixed window, the metric can be reset at the end of each window.

[0128] In some examples, the threshold can be specified in the standard or can be announced by the AP in its announcement messages (e.g., via beacon frames, probe response frames, (re)association response frames, etc.). In some examples, there can be parameter set elements announced in management frames (e.g., beacon, probe response, (re)association response, etc.), which can carry parameters or threshold values ​​for prioritizing EDCA.

[0129] Figure 12 The format of a parameter set element according to an embodiment is shown. This element includes an element ID field, a length field, an element ID extension field, a retransmission count field, a TXOP retry count field, a drop count field, an expiration time field, an access class field, a CWmin field, a CWmax field, an AIFSN field, and a TXOP limit field.

[0130] The Element ID field provides an identifier for the element. The Length field provides the length information of the element. The Element ID Extension field provides extended information about the element. The Retransmission Count field can be a threshold for the retransmission count threshold used to become eligible to initiate a transmission delay signal (e.g., for Prioritized EDCA). The TXOP Retry Count field provides a threshold for the number of times a STA has not competed for a TXOP using Prioritized EDCA. The Drop Count field provides information about the number of packets dropped by a STA to become eligible to use Prioritized EDCA. The Until-Expiration Time field provides a threshold until the STA can be eligible to use Prioritized EDCA. The Access Class field provides information about the service class that can use Prioritized EDCA. The Minimum Contention Window Size (CWmin) field can be the CWmin value used for Prioritized EDCA contention. The Maximum Contention Window (CWmax) field can be the CWmax value used for Prioritized EDCA contention. The Arbitration Interframe Spacing Number (AIFSN) field is the AIFSN value used for Prioritized EDCA. The Transmission Opportunity (TXOP) Limit field can be the TXOP limit for Prioritized EDCA. In some examples, one or more fields shown in the diagram may be omitted, and other fields may be present.

[0131] Figure 13 The format of a parameter set element according to an embodiment is shown. This element includes an element ID field, a length field, an element ID extension field, an access category best-effort (AC_BE) parameter field, an access category background (AC_BK) parameter field, an access category video (AC_VI) parameter field, and an access category voice (AC_VO) parameter field. The element ID field may include an identifier for the element. The length field provides length information for the element. The element ID extension field provides extended information about the element.

[0132] The AC BE parameter can provide information about one or more thresholds for AC BE grouping. The AC BK parameter can provide information about one or more thresholds for AC BK grouping. The AC VI parameter can provide information about one or more thresholds for AC VI grouping. The AC VO parameter can provide information about one or more thresholds for AC VO. Parameters can be one or more parameters described in this document.

[0133] In some examples, a device may be authorized to send delay signals when it sets the Quality of Service (QoS) for flows with latency requirements less than a certain threshold (e.g., channel access delay, 10ms, etc.). QoS can be set, for example, via the SCS request and response framework.

[0134] Figure 14 A flowchart illustrating an example procedure for authorization based on QoS settings according to an embodiment is shown. Although one or more operations are described or shown in a specific order, in some examples, the operations may be rearranged in a different order, which may include performing multiple operations in at least partially overlapping time periods. Figure 14 The flowchart depicted in the diagram illustrates the process in AP (such as...) Figure 3 The operations performed in the AP shown in the figure.

[0135] In process 1400, in operation 1401, the AP determines whether the STA has already set the QoS for the low-latency flow. If the AP determines that the STA has not yet set the QoS for the low-latency flow, the process proceeds to operation 1403, in which the AP does not perform any action. If the AP determines that the STA has already set the QoS for the low-latency flow, the process proceeds to operation 1405.

[0136] In operation 1405, the AP sends a frame to the STA authorizing the STA to send a delayed signal.

[0137] In some examples, if the device is part of an R-TWT setup, the AP can authorize the device to send a delayed signal during the quiet period at the start of the SP to block legacy devices.

[0138] Figure 15 A flowchart illustrating an example process by which an AP provides authorization based on a Restricted Target Wake-Up Time (R-TWT) setting, according to an embodiment, is shown. Although one or more operations are described or shown in a specific order, in some examples, the operations may be rearranged in a different order, which may include performing multiple operations in at least partially overlapping time periods. Figure 15 The flowchart depicted in the diagram illustrates the process in AP (such as...) Figure 3 The operations performed in the AP shown in the figure.

[0139] In process 1500, in operation 1501, the AP determines whether the STA is part of the R-TWT setup. If the AP determines that the STA is not part of the R-TWT setup, the process proceeds to operation 1503, where the AP does not perform any action. If the AP determines that the STA is part of the R-TWT setup, the process proceeds to operation 1505.

[0140] In operation 1505, the AP sends a frame to the STA authorizing the STA to send a delayed signal.

[0141] In some examples, if the STA has EPCS authorization, the AP can authorize the STA, or the STA can request authorization to send a delayed signal.

[0142] In some examples, the AP can revoke the membership or authorization of a STA to send delayed signals. The AP can revoke the membership of a STA by sending a membership revocation message to the STA. The membership revocation message may include at least one or more of the information items indicated in Table 4.

[0143] Table 4 shows the membership revocation message according to an embodiment.

[0144] [Table 4]

[0145] The information items in Table 4 can be sent together or separately. They can be sent as part of any existing frame, element, field, or subfield in the standard, or they can be part of a newly defined frame, element, field, or subfield.

[0146] In some examples, once the STA receives a cancellation message from the AP, the STA can stop sending the delay signal at the indicated time, and if specified, stop sending the delay signal for the indicated duration.

[0147] In some examples, if the AP determines that the STA is abusing delay signals (e.g., sending delay signals for service frames that do not require delay signals, sending delay signals when they are not needed, etc.), the AP can revoke the STA's authorization.

[0148] In some examples, revoking membership may mean closing channel access based on priority EDCA. The AP can send indications (e.g., bits or flags) that can make such indications. In some examples, a bit can take a predetermined value (e.g., 1) to indicate that the feature is enabled, and take another predetermined value (e.g., 0) to indicate that the feature is disabled.

[0149] In some examples, if the AP receives a frame from a STA that has already been sent with the aid of a delay signal, and the STA is not authorized to send the delay signal or has violated the authorization terms specified by the AP when granting the authorization, the AP can revoke the STA's authorization. In some examples, the AP can disassociate the STA to prevent the STA from becoming a security threat to other devices in the network. For example, if the STA is sending unnecessary delay signals, the STA may potentially block other devices in the network.

[0150] In some examples, the AP can provide the STA with a prioritized set of EDCA parameters to compete for channel access quickly after sending a delay signal. In some examples, if the delay signal puts a legacy device into the Extended Interframe Spacing (EIFS) state, the EDCA parameter set can allow the STA to compete for channel access before the legacy device recovers from the EIFS state.

[0151] In some examples, an STA that has attempted to send a delayed signal but failed in K attempts may become ineligible to send a delayed signal again until it becomes eligible. Therefore, in some examples, the number of consecutive delayed signal transmission attempts that can be performed can be limited. In some examples, a default number of allowed consecutive DS transmission attempts (or retries) can be provided (e.g., 1, 2, or 3, etc.). In some examples, an STA may not initiate more than a predetermined number of EDCA contentions. In some examples, the AP may advertise a value for the allowed permitted EDCA contentions, and the associated STA may follow the advertised value.

[0152] In some embodiments, the STA may become ineligible to transmit a delayed signal in an additional M attempts. In some embodiments, the STA may become ineligible to transmit a delayed signal for a period of time or before it becomes eligible again.

[0153] In some examples, a STA that has sent a delay signal and successfully completed the transmission after the delay signal may lose its eligibility to send a delay signal until it regains eligibility based on other eligibility criteria.

[0154] Embodiments of this disclosure can be applied to multi-link operations that grant membership on a per-link basis. Embodiments of this disclosure can be applied to unmanaged networks (e.g., P2P, mobile APs, etc.). Embodiments of this disclosure can be applied to relay networks. For example, a relay may be authorized to send delayed signals or may authorize other STAs to send delayed signals.

[0155] In some examples, sending a delayed signal can lead to the device sending the delayed signal competing for priority during the EDCA channel access phase. In some examples, the AP may have exceptions in this regard.

[0156] In some examples, the AP can send a delay signal to help the STA gain channel access. The delay signal can be sent so that the AP can send control frames to the STA.

[0157] In some examples, the STA may have already established a QoS request with the AP for low-latency (LL) traffic flows. Therefore, the AP may need to send a trigger frame to the STA. If the STA's traffic is periodic, the AP can attempt to trigger the STA around the time the STA's LL frame arrives (e.g., as predicted based on flow characteristics). However, if the latency tolerance of the LL traffic is significantly less than the channel access delay, the AP may not be able to trigger the STA in time. Therefore, the AP can then send a delay signal to prevent other devices from accessing the channel, allowing the AP to send the trigger frame in a timely manner.

[0158] Figure 16 An example of an aid from an AP, according to an embodiment, is shown. Specifically, Figure 16 The communication between the AP and the STA is illustrated. At time 1601, the STA receives a low-latency frame. At time 1603, the AP attempts to trigger the STA but yields to another STA, which is indicated by a delay signal from the AP during time period 1605. At time 1607, the AP sends a delay signal to prevent other devices from competing for channel access and thus provides priority EDCA to STA1. At time 1609, the AP sends a trigger frame to the STA. At time 1613, the STA sends a low-latency frame (e.g., a Physical Layer Protocol Data Unit (PPDU)) 1611 before the LL frame's expiration time.

[0159] In some examples, an AP can block the channel to assist a STA in sending LL frames (e.g., PPDUs). If the STA has already set QoS for the LL traffic flow, the AP can send a delay signal to block other devices as its predicted arrival time approaches. The STA can ignore the delay signal and send the LL frame (e.g., PPDU) to the AP. The delay signal can have a unique identifier (e.g., BSS color, etc.) so that the STA can understand that the delay signal comes from its own AP.

[0160] Figure 17 The diagram illustrates an AP clearing a channel for a STA according to an embodiment. Specifically, Figure 17 The communication between AP and STA1 is illustrated. At time 1701, STA1 receives an LL frame. At time 1703, AP sends a delay signal to prevent other devices from competing for the channel, thereby clearing the channel for STA1. Therefore, STA1 is able to gain channel access and send an LL PPDU frame 1705 to AP after ignoring the delay signal and before the indicated LL frame expiry time 1707, while other STAs postpone their transmissions.

[0161] In some examples, the STA can provide timing information to the AP (e.g., the expiration time of its frames), and the AP can send a delay signal, causing the STA to send the frame before the expiration time. The STA can ignore the delay signal and send an urgent frame to the AP.

[0162] Figure 18 The illustration shows an AP transmitting a delayed signal based on an instruction from a STA, according to an embodiment. Specifically, Figure 18 The communication between AP and STA1 is illustrated. STA1 sends frame 1801 to AP, which includes timing information indicating frame expiration at time 1807. At time 1803, AP sends a delay signal to STA. Therefore, before the LL frame expiration time of 1807, STA sends LL PPDU frame 1805 to AP.

[0163] In some examples, the AP can send a delay signal at the start of the R-TWT service period (SP) to block other STAs, thus helping LL STAs gain channel access more quickly.

[0164] Figure 19 The illustration shows an AP, according to an embodiment, sending a delayed signal at the start of R-TWT SP to assist in low-latency STA. Specifically, Figure 19 The communication between the AP and the STA is shown. Time 1901 indicates the start time of the STA's R-TWT SP. At time 1903, the AP sends a delay signal, which accordingly prevents other STAs from occupying the channel, which is blocked for the STA's LL service.

[0165] In some examples, an AP may send a delay signal to clear the channel for unmanaged network operations (e.g., mobile APs, peer-to-peer (P2P) devices, etc.). The AP may determine whether to send a delay signal based on knowledge of the network's QoS requirements.

[0166] In some examples, the AP can send a delay signal in response to a delay signal sent by a STA. This response delay signal allows STAs to understand that their delay signals are approved by the AP. If the AP does not want STAs to block the channel, the AP can avoid sending a delay signal and, in response, send an unblocking signal. In some examples, the AP can send an unblocking signal by sending a frame with a PHY.RXEND.indication primitive that does not contain errors or a frame check sequence (FCS) value that is highly likely to be error-free (such as a short PPDU transmission).

[0167] According to embodiments of this disclosure, STAs may be authorized by the AP to send a delay signal (blocking message) to prevent other STAs from accessing the channel, thereby reducing contention on the wireless medium. This can be accomplished by STAs with low-latency traffic backlogs by sending a delay signal to prevent other devices (e.g., devices that cannot or have not yet sent such signals) from competing for the wireless medium for a specific period of time. The AP can control the number of devices that can send such delay signals to help reduce channel access latency and improve network performance.

[0168] Unless otherwise specified, references to singular elements are not intended to indicate one and only one, but rather one or more. For example, a “one” module can refer to one or more modules. Without further constraints, elements beginning with “a,” “an,” “the,” or “the” do not preclude the existence of additional identical elements.

[0169] Titles and subtitles (if any) are for ease of description only and do not constitute any limitation on the invention. The word "exemplary" is used to indicate that it is used as an example or illustration. With regard to the use of the terms "comprising," "having," etc., such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term "comprising," as "comprising" is interpreted when used as a transitional word in the claims. Relational terms such as "first" and "second" can be used to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between these entities or actions.

[0170] Phrases such as "one aspect," "this aspect," "on the other hand," "some aspects," "one or more aspects," "embodiment," "one implementation," "another implementation," "some implementations," "one or more implementations," "one embodiment," "this embodiment," "another embodiment," "some examples," "one or more embodiments," "a configuration," "this configuration," "another configuration," "some configurations," "one or more configurations," "the subject matter," "this disclosure," "this disclosure," and other variations thereof are used for convenience and do not imply that the disclosure associated with such phrases is essential to the subject matter or that such disclosure applies to all configurations of the subject matter. Disclosures associated with such phrases may apply to all configurations or one or more configurations. Disclosures associated with such phrases may provide one or more examples. Phrases such as "one aspect" or "some aspects" may refer to one or more aspects, and vice versa, and this similarly applies to other foregoing phrases.

[0171] The phrase "at least one" precedes a list of items, separated by "and" or "or," and modifies the entire list, not each individual item. The phrase "at least one" does not require the selection of at least one item; rather, it allows for the inclusion of at least one of any one item, and / or at least one of any combination of items, and / or at least one of each item. For example, each of the phrases "at least one of A, B, and C" or "at least one of A, B, or C" refers to only A, only B, or only C; any combination of A, B, and C; and / or at least one of each of A, B, and C.

[0172] It should be understood that the specific order or hierarchy of the disclosed steps, operations, or processes is an illustration of exemplary methods. Unless otherwise expressly stated, it should be understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps, operations, or processes may be performed in a different order. Some steps, operations, or processes may be performed simultaneously, or may be performed as part of one or more other steps, operations, or processes. The appended method claims (if any) present the elements of various steps, operations, or processes in a sample order and are not intended to limit one to the specific order or hierarchy presented. These may be performed serially, linearly, in parallel, or in different orders. It should be understood that the described instructions, operations, and systems may generally be integrated together in a single software / hardware product or packaged into multiple software / hardware products.

[0173] This disclosure is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. In some instances, well-known structures and components are illustrated in block diagram form to avoid obscuring the concepts of the subject matter. This disclosure provides various examples of the subject matter, and the subject matter is not limited to these examples. Various modifications to these aspects will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and the principles described herein can be applied to other aspects.

[0174] All structural and functional equivalents of elements throughout the various aspects described herein that are known or will be known by one of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be covered by the claims. Furthermore, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be offered to the public, whether or not such disclosure is expressly stated in the claims. No claim element is to be interpreted pursuant to paragraph 6 of 35 U.S.SC § 112 unless that element is expressly stated using a phrase, or, in the case of a method claim, is stated using a phrase of steps.

[0175] A brief description of the title, background, drawings, abstract, and figures are incorporated herein and are provided as illustrative examples rather than as limiting descriptions. They are submitted with the understanding that they will not be used to limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Furthermore, in the detailed description, it will be apparent that the description provides illustrative examples, and various features are grouped together in various embodiments for the purpose of simplifying the disclosure. The approach of this disclosure should not be construed as reflecting an intention to require more features than expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as reflected in the following claims, the inventive subject matter lies in all features of fewer than those in a single disclosure configuration or operation. The appended claims are thus incorporated into the detailed description, wherein each claim is independently claimed as a separate subject matter.

[0176] The claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects described herein, but rather to conform to the full scope consistent with the language claims and to cover all legal equivalents. Nevertheless, no claim is intended to include subject matter that does not meet the requirements of applicable patent law, nor should it be interpreted in this way.

Claims

1. A station STA (111) in a wireless network, said STA (111) comprising: Memory (260); as well as A processor (240) is connected to the memory (260), the processor (240) being configured to: Send a delay signal to prevent one or more STAs from competing for the channel for a period of time; Compete for the channel and gain access to the channel; as well as One or more frames are sent to the access point AP (101) via the channel.

2. The STA according to claim 1, wherein, The processor is also configured to: Send a first frame to the AP (101) requesting authorization to transmit a delay signal, the delay signal preventing one or more other STAs associated with the AP (101) from competing for the channel; as well as The AP (101) receives a second frame in response to the first frame, authorizing the transmission of the delayed signal.

3. The STA according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The processor is also configured to determine, before sending the delay signal, that the number of times a frame is retransmitted is greater than a threshold.

4. The STA according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The processor is also configured to determine, before sending the delay signal, that the buffer delay for sending the frame is greater than a predetermined threshold.

5. The STA according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The processor is further configured to determine, before sending the delay signal, that the number of attempts to send the delay signal is less than a threshold.

6. The STA according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The processor is also configured to: Receive a frame from the AP (101) revoking the authorization to send the delayed signal; and In response to receiving the frame, the transmission of the delay signal is abandoned.

7. The STA according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The processor is also configured to: Receive from AP (101) a frame including a priority enhanced distributed channel access parameter set, which provides high priority to STA (111) that is allowed to send low-latency services.

8. The STA according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The processor is also configured to: Before sending the delay signal, it is determined that the specific frame is within a threshold of the specific frame's expiration time.

9. The STA according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The processor is also configured to: Receive from the AP (101) a frame including one or more pieces of information associated with the qualification to send the delay signal.

10. The STA according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The processor is also configured to: Receive a frame from the AP (101) announcing that you are eligible to send the delayed signal by one or more thresholds.

11. An access point (AP) (101) in a wireless network, the AP (101) comprising: Memory (229); as well as A processor (224) is connected to the memory (229), the processor (224) being configured to: The slave STA (111) receives a first frame requesting authorization to transmit a delay signal, which prevents one or more other STAs associated with the AP (101) from competing for the channel; In response to the first frame, a second frame authorizing the transmission of the delayed signal is sent to the STA (111); as well as Receive one or more frames from the STA (111) via the channel.

12. The AP according to claim 11, wherein, The processor is also configured to: Send a frame to the STA (111) to revoke the authorization to send the delayed signal.

13. The AP according to claim 11 or claim 12, wherein, The second frame includes a priority enhanced distributed channel access parameter set, which provides high priority to STAs (111) that are allowed to send low-latency services.

14. The AP according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein, The first frame includes timing information regarding the expiration time of a specific frame of the STA (111).

15. The AP according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein, The second frame includes one or more pieces of information associated with the qualification to send the delayed signal.

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