Wireless communication control device, wireless communication control method, and program

Abstract

To make it possible to increase transmission opportunities by multi-link aggregation.SOLUTION: A communication control device transmits a first parameter used for setting communication in which a wireless communication terminal uses a plurality of links, and a second parameter used for setting communication in which the wireless communication terminal uses a single link. The present technique can be applied to, for example, a wireless communication system configured by connecting an access point and a wireless communication terminal by wireless communication.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present technology relates to a wireless communication apparatus and method, and a wireless communication terminal and method, and more particularly to a wireless communication apparatus and method, and a wireless communication terminal and method that can increase a transmission opportunity by multi-link aggregation.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, in VR (Virtual Reality) and the like, the use of a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) has been expected. In order to support VR and the like, the wireless LAN is required to improve the maximum throughput. In the next-generation wireless LAN standard, as one of the technologies for improving the maximum throughput, multi-link aggregation that ensures broadband by simultaneously using a plurality of links has attracted attention.

[0003] Transmission by multi-link aggregation (hereinafter, MLA transmission) cannot be carried out unless a transmission opportunity (transmission right) is acquired on a plurality of links. On the other hand, when transmitting only on one link (hereinafter, non-MLA transmission), transmission can be performed immediately after a transmission opportunity is acquired on one link. Therefore, when there are a non-MLA transmission terminal and an MLA transmission terminal, the non-MLA transmission terminal often starts transmission first during the waiting for MLA transmission, the channel becomes busy, and MLA transmission cannot be performed.

[0004] Patent Document 1 proposes a method of predicting the channel usage situation after a predetermined time has elapsed, and transmitting data as packets for each band of a plurality of frequencies at the same timing based on a predicted idle probability indicating the idle probability of the wireless channel every predetermined time.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] As described above, when there are terminals that perform non-MLA transmission and terminals that perform MLA transmission, there is an urgent need for a proposal to prioritize MLA transmission over non-MLA transmission.

[0007] This technology has been made in view of such a situation, and is intended to increase the transmission opportunity by Multi-link aggregation.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0008] A wireless communication device according to one aspect of this technology includes a communication unit that transmits a first parameter used for setting communication in which a wireless communication terminal uses a plurality of links and a second parameter used for setting communication in which the wireless communication terminal uses a single link.

[0009] A wireless communication terminal according to another aspect of this technology includes a communication unit that performs communication based on a setting using a first parameter used for setting communication in which a plurality of links are used or a second parameter used for setting communication in which a single link is used during a predetermined period.

[0010] In one aspect of this technology, a first parameter used for setting communication in which a wireless communication terminal uses a plurality of links and a second parameter used for setting communication in which the wireless communication terminal uses a single link are transmitted.

[0011] In another aspect of this technology, communication is performed based on a setting using a first parameter used for setting communication in which a plurality of links are used or a second parameter used for setting communication in which a single link is used during a predetermined period.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0012]

Figure 1

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Figure 12

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present technology will be described. The description will be made in the following order. 0. Configuration examples of the system and apparatus 1. First embodiment (example of notification from an AP) 2. Second embodiment (example of a request from an STA) 3. Others

[0014] <0.System and device configuration example> <Configuration example of a wireless communication system> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a wireless communication system according to an embodiment of the present technology.

[0015] The wireless communication system in FIG. 1 is configured by connecting an access point (hereinafter referred to as AP) and STAs STA1 and STA2, which are wireless communication terminals, by wireless communication.

[0016] The AP performs MLA transmission, which is communication using a plurality of links (in the case of FIG. 1, links L1 and L2), with STA1. The AP performs non-MLA transmission, which is communication using a single link (in the case of FIG. 1, link L2), with STA2.

[0017] Here, the links may be different bands. In this case, the bands to be used are, for example, the 2.4 GHz band, 5 GHz band, 6 GHz band, 920 MHz band, etc. Also, the links may be a plurality of different channels within the same band. Note that the plurality of links is not limited to two links, and may be three or more links.

[0018] The AP sets a Multi-link aggregation period (MLA period), which is a period in which MLA transmission is prioritized and non-MLA transmission is not prioritized. The AP generates information related to the setting of MLA transmission (MLA period setup element) that is information referred to by the STA performing MLA transmission and includes information regarding the MLA period, and notifies it using each link. At this time, information related to the setting of non-MLA transmission (non-MLA period setup element), which is information referred to by the STA performing non-MLA transmission, is also generated and notified using each link.

[0019] Note that, as described above, the MLA period setup element notification may be sent using each link, or may be sent using only a single link (for example, notification to the STA using only link L2). Similarly, for the non-MLA period setup element notification, it may be sent using each link, or may be sent using only a single link.

[0020] Upon receiving the MLA period setup element and the non-MLA period setup element, STA1 sets the communication method (for example, waiting time and transmission period) based on the MLA period setup element during the MLA period. STA1 performs MLA transmission to the AP based on the set waiting time and transmission period.

[0021] Upon receiving the MLA period setup element and the non-MLA period setup element, STA2 sets the communication method (for example, waiting time and transmission period) based on the non-MLA period setup element during the MLA period. STA2 performs non-MLA transmission to the AP based on the set waiting time and transmission period.

[0022] The AP is composed of a wireless communication device 11 that performs MLA transmission or non-MLA transmission to STA1 and STA2. STA1 and STA2 are composed of wireless communication terminals 12-1 and 12-2 belonging to the network managed by the AP. When there is no particular need to distinguish between the wireless communication terminals 12-1 and 12-2, they are referred to as wireless communication terminal 12.

[0023] Note that the number of wireless communication devices and wireless communication terminals in FIG. 1 is an example and is not limited to the description in FIG. 1. Also, in FIG. 1, an example is described where STA1 performs MLA transmission and STA2 performs non-MLA transmission, but depending on the situation, STA1 may perform non-MLA transmission and STA2 may perform MLA transmission.

[0024] <Configuration Example of Wireless Communication Device> FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a wireless communication device.

[0025] The wireless communication device 11 shown in FIG. 2 is a device that operates as an AP.

[0026] The wireless communication device 11 includes a control unit 31, a power supply unit 32, communication units 33-1 and 33-2, and a memory unit 35. The communication units 33-1 and 33-2 may directly perform control and information exchange with each other.

[0027] Note that the control unit 31, and the communication units 33-1 and 33-2 may be configured as one or more LSIs. Also, hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the communication units 33-1 and 33-2, they are simply referred to as the communication unit 33 as appropriate. The communication unit 33 is not limited to two, and may be configured with three or more.

[0028] The communication unit 33 transmits and receives data. The communication unit 33 includes a memory unit 50, a data processing unit 51, a wireless control unit 52, a modulation / demodulation unit 53, a signal processing unit 54, a channel estimation unit 55, wireless interface (I / F) units 56-1 to 56-N, and amplifier units 57-1 to 57-N. Each communication unit 33 may be an independent component, or some components of each communication unit 33 may be shared components. For example, the memory unit 50, the data processing unit 51, the wireless control unit 52, and the modulation / demodulation unit 53 may be shared.

[0029] The wireless I / F units 56-1 to 56-N, the amplifier units 57-1 to 57-N, and the antennas 58-1 to 58-N may be grouped with those having the same branch number as one set, and each set may be regarded as one component. Also, the functions of the amplifier units 57-1 to 57-N may be included in the wireless I / F units 56-1 to 56-N.

[0030] Also, when there is no need to distinguish between the wireless I / F units 56-1 to 56-N, the amplifier units 57-1 to 57-N, and the antennas 58-1 to 58-N, they are simply referred to as the wireless I / F unit 56, the amplifier unit 57, and the antenna 58 as appropriate.

[0031] The control unit 31 is composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. The control unit 31 executes programs stored in the ROM or the like, and controls the power supply unit 32 and the wireless control unit 52 of each communication unit 33.

[0032] The power supply unit 32 is composed of a battery or a fixed power supply, and supplies power to the entire wireless communication device 11.

[0033] The memory unit 50 holds data input from upper layers such as the application layer, and outputs it to the data processing unit 51. Also, the memory unit 50 holds data supplied from the data processing unit 51, and outputs it to the upper layer. A part of the memory unit 50 is arranged as the memory unit 35 in the wireless communication device 11 outside the communication unit 33.

[0034] At the time of transmission, the data processing unit 51 generates a packet for wireless communication using the data supplied from the memory unit 50. The data processing unit 51 performs processes such as adding a header for media access control (MAC: Media Access Control) and adding an error detection code to the generated packet, and outputs the processed data to the modulation / demodulation unit 53.

[0035] At the time of reception, the data processing unit 51 performs processes such as analyzing the MAC header, detecting packet errors, and reordering processing on the data supplied from the modulation / demodulation unit 53, and outputs the processed data to the memory unit 50.

[0036] The wireless control unit 52 transfers information between each part of the wireless communication device 11, and controls each part within the communication unit 33.

[0037] During transmission, the wireless control unit 52, as necessary, performs parameter setting in the modulation / demodulation unit 53 and the signal processing unit 54, packet scheduling in the data processing unit 51, parameter setting in the wireless I / F unit 56, and transmission power control in the amplifier unit 57. During reception, the wireless control unit 52, as necessary, performs parameter setting in the modulation / demodulation unit 53 and the signal processing unit 54, and parameter setting in the wireless I / F unit 56 and the amplifier unit 57.

[0038] In particular, the wireless control unit 52 controls the communication unit 33 to set the MLA period, generate the MLA period setup element, and notify it using each link. The wireless control unit 52 also controls the communication unit 33 to generate the non-MLA period setup element and notify it using each link.

[0039] During the MLA period, the wireless control unit 52 sets the waiting time and the transmission period based on the generated MLA period setup element or non-MLA period setup element. The wireless control unit 52 controls the communication unit 33 to perform MLA transmission or non-MLA transmission to the STA based on the set waiting time and transmission period.

[0040] Note that at least some of the operations of the wireless control unit 52 may be performed by the control unit 31 instead of the wireless control unit 52. Also, the control unit 31 and the wireless control unit 52 may be configured as one component.

[0041] During transmission, the modulation / demodulation unit 53 encodes, interleaves, and modulates the data supplied from the data processing unit 51 based on the encoding method and modulation method set by the control unit 31, and generates a data symbol stream. The modulation / demodulation unit 53 outputs the generated data symbol stream to the signal processing unit 54.

[0042] At the time of reception, the modulation / demodulation unit 53 outputs the data obtained by demodulating, deinterleaving, and decoding the data symbol stream supplied from the signal processing unit 54 to the data processing unit 51 or the radio control unit 52.

[0043] At the time of transmission, the signal processing unit 54 performs signal processing for spatial separation on the data symbol stream supplied from the modulation / demodulation unit 53 as necessary, and outputs one or more transmission symbol streams obtained as a result of the signal processing to the respective radio I / F units 56.

[0044] At the time of reception, the signal processing unit 54 performs signal processing on the reception symbol stream supplied from each radio I / F unit 56, performs spatial separation of the stream as necessary, and outputs the data symbol stream obtained as a result of the spatial separation to the modulation / demodulation unit 53.

[0045] The channel estimation unit 55 calculates the complex channel gain information of the propagation path from the preamble part and the training signal part among the reception symbol streams supplied from the respective radio I / F units 56. The complex channel gain information is supplied to the modulation / demodulation unit 53 and the signal processing unit 54 via the radio control unit 52, and is used for demodulation processing in the modulation / demodulation unit 53 and spatial separation in the signal processing unit 54.

[0046] At the time of transmission, the radio I / F unit 56 converts the transmission symbol stream from the signal processing unit 54 into an analog signal, performs filtering, up-conversion to the carrier frequency, and phase control, and outputs the analog signal after the phase control to the amplifier unit 57.

[0047] At the time of reception, the radio I / F unit 56 performs phase control, down-conversion, and inverse filtering on the analog signal supplied from the amplifier unit 57, and outputs the reception symbol stream obtained as a result of the conversion into a digital signal to the signal processing unit 54 and the channel estimation unit 55.

[0048] During transmission, the amplifier unit 57 amplifies the analog signal supplied from the wireless I / F unit 56 to a predetermined power and outputs the amplified analog signal to the antenna 58. During reception, the amplifier unit 57 amplifies the analog signal supplied from the antenna 58 to a predetermined power and outputs the amplified analog signal to the wireless I / F unit 56.

[0049] At least a part of at least one of the functions of the amplifier unit 57 during transmission and reception may be included in the wireless I / F unit 56. Also, at least a part of at least one of the functions of the amplifier unit 57 may be a component outside the communication unit 33.

[0050] Note that since the configuration of the wireless communication terminal 12 operating as a STA is basically the same as that of the wireless communication device 11, hereinafter, the configuration of the wireless communication device 11 is used in the description of the wireless communication terminal 12.

[0051] When operating as a STA, the wireless control unit 52 sets the waiting time and transmission period based on the MLA period setup element or non-MLA period setup element received from the AP during the MLA period. The wireless control unit 52 controls the communication unit 33 to perform MLA transmission or non-MLA transmission to the AP based on the set waiting time and transmission period.

[0052] <1. First Embodiment (Example of Notification from AP)> First, as a first embodiment, an example of MLA priority transmission in which the AP notifies the MLA period setup element and the non-MLA period setup element and gives priority to MLA transmission will be described.

[0053] <Sequence Example of MLA Priority Transmission of the Present Technology> FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a sequence for explaining a series of operations of MLA priority transmission according to the first embodiment of the present technology.

[0054] In Fig. 3, link L1 is a band in the 5 GHz band, link L2 is a band in the 6 GHz band, and the transmission sequences of the AP, STA1, and STA2 are shown for each link. That is, in Fig. 3, an example is shown in which the AP and STA1 perform MLA transmission using link L1 and link L2 with each other, and STA2 performs non-MLA transmission using link L2 with respect to the AP.

[0055] The AP sets the MLA period and notifies the MLA period setup element and the non-MLA period setup element. In Fig. 3, an example is shown in which the period from time t3 to time t7 is set as the MLA period.

[0056] At time t1, the AP transmits the MLA period setup element and the non-MLA period setup element, for example, included in a Beacon, using the band in the 5 GHz band.

[0057] The MLA period setup element includes the MLA EDCA (Enhanced Distributed Channel Access) parameter used during the MLA period and the time information of the MLA period.

[0058] The Non-MLA period setup element includes non-MLA EDCA parameters used during the MLA period. Note that the MLA EDCA parameters and non-MLA EDCA parameters may be set for each access category (AC) information indicating the type and priority of data, or for each link information. Then, the MLA EDCA parameters and non-MLA EDCA parameters may be transmitted for each set link information, or for each AC information. In the case of Figure 3, each of link L1 and link L2 is treated as different link information, and different parameters are set for each link information. However, when notifying with the element, it may be shown as a combination of link L1 and link L2 with one link information.

[0059] At time t2, the AP transmits the MLA period setup element and the non-MLA period setup element, for example, included in the Beacon, using the 6 GHz band. The reason why the transmission times of the Beacon are different between the 5 GHz band and the 6 GHz band is that they are transmitted at the timing when the transmission opportunity is obtained.

[0060] When STA1 and STA2 that have received the MLA period setup element and the non-MLA period setup element perform MLA transmission during the MLA period, they use the MLA EDCA parameters and set the waiting time and transmission period based on the MLA EDCA parameters. When STA1 and STA2 perform non-MLA transmission during the MLA period, they use the non-MLA EDCA parameters and set the waiting time and transmission period based on the non-MLA EDCA parameters.

[0061] At time t3, the MLA period starts.

[0062] At time t4 during the MLA period, which is the set waiting time or transmission period, the AP transmits a Beacon using the 5 GHz band and the 6 GHz band. In this way, during the MLA period, the AP may simultaneously transmit Beacons between links.

[0063] At time t5, STA1 performs MLA transmission of Data to the AP using the 5 GHz band and the 6 GHz band. Note that during the MLA period, MLA transmission can also be induced by receiving the Beacon at time t4. As a result, the AP can also prioritize MLA transmission.

[0064] After the MLA transmission of STA1 is completed, at time t6, STA2 performs non-MLA transmission of Data to the AP using the 6 GHz band.

[0065] The MLA period ends at time t7 after the non-MLA transmission of STA2 is completed.

[0066] Note that the AP, STA1, and STA2 may check in advance, such as at the time of connection, the Capability information regarding whether MLA transmission is possible, the setting of the MLA period, and whether the setting of the MLA EDCA parameter is possible.

[0067] Also, in FIG. 3, the information regarding the setting of the MLA period was transmitted included in the Beacon, but it may also be transmitted included in a Probe response frame transmitted in response to a Probe request frame, etc.

[0068] Furthermore, during the MLA period of FIG. 3, as performed at time t4, AP1 can simultaneously transmit Beacons between links. As a result, operations performed immediately after the transmission of Beacons such as Broadcast or Multicast, as performed at time t5, can also be implemented by MLA transmission using multiple links.

[0069] <Configuration example of MLA period setup element> Figure 4 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the MLA period setup element.

[0070] In Figure 4, the MLA period setup element consists of each field such as Element ID, Length, Element ID extension,..., MLA period parameter #1 (the first parameter),....

[0071] Different information is described in the fields of Element ID and Element ID extension. Note that the information described in the fields of Element ID and Element ID extension indicates that this element is an MLA period setup element.

[0072] Information regarding the length of this element is described in the field of Length.

[0073] The field of MLA period parameter #1 describes the MLA EDCA parameter and the time information of the MLA period. Note that #1 indicates that there is an MLA period parameter for each link information and each AC information, and there may be MLA period parameters after #2.

[0074] Specifically, the field of the MLA period parameter consists of fields of link ID / AC (, AIFSN (Arbitration Inter Frame Space Number), CW (Contention Window), TXOP (Transmission Opportunity), and MLA period. That is, link ID / AC, AIFSN, CW, and TXOP are MLA EDCA parameters. AIFSN, CW, and TXOP are parameters related to obtaining a transmission opportunity.

[0075] In the field of link ID / AC, at least one of the corresponding link information or AC information is described. The link information may be information for identifying one link or information for identifying one combination of a plurality of links. The AC information is information for identifying any one of the four ACs of AC_VO (Voice), AC_VI (Video), AC_BE (Best Effort), and AC_BK (Back Ground).

[0076] In the field of AIFSN, the AIFSN used during the MLA period is described. AIFSN is information related to the transmission interval of frames. The smaller this value, the higher the priority of the transmission queue. Therefore, the AP sets the value in the case of MLA EDCA parameter to be smaller than the value in the case of non-MLA EDCA parameter.

[0077] In the field of CW, the CW used during the MLA period min , CW max is described. CW min , CW max are the minimum and maximum values of CW. CW is a parameter related to the transmission waiting time. The shorter the transmission waiting time, the higher the probability of obtaining a transmission opportunity for that queue. Therefore, the AP sets the value in the case of MLA EDCA parameter to be smaller than the value in the case of non-MLA EDCA parameter.

[0078] In the TXOP field, information regarding the TXOP used during the MLA period is described, such as the TXOP limit which is the upper limit value of the TXOP. The TXOP is the channel occupancy time. Since a larger value allows more frames to be transferred in one obtained transmission opportunity, the AP sets the value for the non-MLA EDCA parameter to be smaller than that for the MLA EDCA parameter.

[0079] In the MLA period field, the time information of the MLA period is described. For example, as the time information of the MLA period, the start time of the MLA period and the length of the MLA period are described.

[0080] <Configuration example of non-MLA period setup element> FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a non-MLA period setup element.

[0081] In FIG. 5, the non-MLA period setup element consists of fields such as Element ID, Length, Element ID extension,..., non-MLA period parameter #1 (second parameter),....

[0082] Note that, among the configurations shown in FIG. 5, the descriptions of the same configurations as those shown in FIG. 4 are omitted as appropriate.

[0083] The non-MLA period parameter in FIG. 5 is different from the MLA period parameter in FIG. 4 in that the MLA period is excluded. That is, the non-MLA period parameter consists of non-MLA EDCA parameters. Note that it is also possible to use conventional EDCA parameters instead of the non-MLA period parameter.

[0084] Here, as the MLA EDCA parameter and non-MLA EDCA parameter, at least one of AIFSN, CW min , CW max , and TXOP may be described.

[0085] Also, the start time and length of the MLA period described in the MLA period setup element, as well as the MLA EDCA parameter, may be determined by the AP by collecting the Buffer Status report from the STA to determine the traffic situation. The criterion for determination is, for example, the number of STAs known to have traffic from the Buffer Status report. The same applies to the non-MLA period setup element.

[0086] During the time of the MLA period described in the MLA period setup element, the AP may send a frame describing the end time of the MLA period or a frame describing the length of the MLA Period as 0 to the MLA period field to end the MLA period and return to normal communication, and notify the subordinate STAs.

[0087] The STA may determine by itself which of TXOP, CW, and AIFSN to use among the notified MLA EDCA parameter and non-MLA EDCA parameter, or the AP may be specified to determine which to use.

[0088] In addition, in FIGS. 4 and 5, an example is shown in which the MLA period setup element and the non-MLA period setup element are configured separately, but the MLA period setup element and the non-MLA period setup element may be configured within the same element. In this case, they can be identified by the Element ID and the Element ID extension.

[0089] <Example of data format in the case of MLA transmission> FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the data format in the case of MLA transmission.

[0090] In FIG. 6, as data in the case of MLA transmission, an example of the format of the PPDU (PLCP (Physical Layer Convergence Protocol) Protocol Data Unit) is shown.

[0091] The PPDU is configured to include L-STF, L-LTF, L-SIG,..., EHT-SIG,..., Data,.... In FIG. 6, the description of the same configuration as the existing PPDU is omitted. The same applies to the following figures.

[0092] The EHT-SIG consists of a plurality of fields such as the MLA field and the TXOP field.

[0093] The MLA field describes information indicating whether it is MLA transmission (non-MLA transmission). In the case of FIG. 6, the number 1 indicating MLA transmission is described in the MLA field.

[0094] Also, in the EHT-SIG, 6 bits are used as the TXOP field. Note that the 6 bits used as the TXOP field are just an example, and the number is not limited to 6 bits.

[0095] <Example of data format in the case of non-MLA transmission> FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the data format in the case of non-MLA transmission.

[0096] In FIG. 7, an example of the PPDU format is shown as the data in the case of non-MLA transmission.

[0097] In the case of FIG. 7, a 0 indicating non-MLA transmission is described in the MLA field of the EHT-SIG.

[0098] Also, in the case of FIG. 7, in the EHT-SIG, 5 bits are used as the TXOP field, and the remaining 1 bit, which was the TXOP field in the MLA transmission data of FIG. 6, is used as a field indicating communication using HARQ (Hybrid Automatic Repeat Request).

[0099] This is because when using TXOP as a non-MLA EDCA parameter, the TXOP length of non-MLA transmission is restricted. For example, in FIG. 7, an example is shown in which the TXOP length is restricted by not using the least significant bit of the TXOP field as information on the TXOP length in the case of non-MLA transmission.

[0100] At this time, in FIG. 7, the bits not used as the TXOP field can be used as a field indicating other information, as long as the bits not used as the TXOP field are used as a field indicating communication using HARQ.

[0101] As other information other than HARQ, information for prohibiting transmission with overlapping transmission timings in spatial reuse for non-MLA transmission, redundant information for error checking by CRC, information regarding the number of connections, information regarding coding, etc. can be used.

[0102] By doing so, in non-MLA transmission, instead of limiting the TXOP limit, it becomes possible to perform more reliable communication.

[0103] <Example of AP operation> FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining an example of MLA priority transmission processing of an AP.

[0104] In step S11, the radio control unit 52 sets the MLA period, generates an MLA period setup element with the set MLA period, and causes it to be transmitted to the communication unit 33 using each link. Note that the MLA period setup element may be transmitted using each link, or may be transmitted using only one link. At this time, a non-MLA period setup element is also generated and transmitted.

[0105] In step S12, the radio control unit 52 waits until it is determined that it is the start time of the set MLA period. If it is determined in step S12 that it is the start time of the MLA period, the process proceeds to step S13.

[0106] In step S13, the radio control unit 52 selects an STA and determines whether the selected STA is capable of MLA transmission. If it is determined in step S13 that the STA is capable of MLA transmission, the process proceeds to step S14. Note that the criteria for the determination in step S13 are, for example, whether it is known from the exchange of Capability information at the time of connection that the STA can use a plurality of links, whether communication has been performed with the STA using a plurality of links immediately before, whether each link of the STA is in an awake state or a sleep state, or whether each link is enabled or disabled, etc.

[0107] In step S14, the wireless control unit 52 uses the MLA EDCA parameter and sets the waiting time and transmission period based on the MLA EDCA parameter. The wireless control unit 52 controls the communication unit 33 to perform MLA transmission to the STA based on the set waiting time and transmission period.

[0108] In step S13, if it is determined that the STA cannot perform MLA transmission, the process proceeds to step S15. The wireless control unit 52 uses the non-MLA EDCA parameter and sets the waiting time and transmission period based on the non-MLA EDCA parameter. The wireless control unit 52 controls the communication unit 33 to perform non-MLA transmission to the STA based on the set waiting time and transmission period.

[0109] After step S14 or S15, the process proceeds to step S16.

[0110] In step S16, the wireless control unit 52 determines whether it is the end time of the MLA period. If it is determined in step S16 that it is not the end time of the MLA period, the process returns to step S13 and the subsequent processing is repeated.

[0111] If it is determined in step S16 that it is the end time of the MLA period, the MLA priority transmission process ends.

[0112] Note that in FIG. 8, the processing of steps S13 to S15 is performed for several minutes of the subordinate STAs.

[0113] <Operation example of STA> FIG. 9 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the MLA priority transmission process of the STA.

[0114] In step S31, the communication unit 33 receives the MLA period setup element with the MLA period set, which is transmitted from the AP. The MLA period setup element is supplied to the radio control unit 52. Further, the non-MLA period setup element is also received and supplied to the radio control unit 52.

[0115] In step S32, the radio control unit 52 refers to the MLA period setup element and waits until it is determined that it is the start time of the MLA period. If it is determined in step S32 that it is the start time of the MLA period, the process proceeds to step S33.

[0116] In step S33, the radio control unit 52 determines whether it is possible to perform MLA transmission. If it is determined in step S33 that it is possible to perform MLA transmission, the process proceeds to step S34. The criteria for the determination in step S33 are, for example, whether it supports multi-link transmission, whether two or more links are enabled, or whether two or more links are in the awake state, etc.

[0117] In step S34, the radio control unit 52 uses the MLA EDCA parameter to set the waiting time and transmission period based on the MLA EDCA parameter. The radio control unit 52 controls the communication unit 33 to perform MLA transmission to the AP based on the set waiting time and transmission period.

[0118] If it is determined in step S33 that it is not possible to perform MLA transmission, the process proceeds to step S35. The radio control unit 52 uses the non-MLA EDCA parameter to set the waiting time and transmission period based on the non-MLA EDCA parameter. The radio control unit 52 controls the communication unit 33 to perform non-MLA transmission to the AP based on the set waiting time and transmission period.

[0119] After step S34 or S35, the process proceeds to step S36.

[0120] In step S36, the wireless control unit 52 determines whether it is the end time of the MLA period. If it is determined in step S36 that it is not the end time of the MLA period, the process returns to step S33, and the subsequent processing is repeated.

[0121] In step S36, if it is determined that it is the end time of the MLA period, the MLA priority transmission process ends.

[0122] <2. Second Embodiment (Example with a Request from STA)> Next, as a second embodiment, an example of an MLA priority transmission process in which the AP notifies the MLA period setup element and the non-MLA period setup element in response to a request transmitted from the STA and gives priority to MLA transmission will be described.

[0123] <Sequence Example of MLA Priority Transmission Process of the Present Technology> FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a sequence for explaining a series of operations of MLA priority transmission in the second embodiment of the present technology.

[0124] In FIG. 10, similar to the example of FIG. 3, link L1 is a 5 GHz band, link L2 is a 6 GHz band, and the transmission sequences of the AP and STA1 are shown for each link. Note that in FIG. 10, the illustration of the transmission sequence related to STA2 is omitted.

[0125] At time t11, STA1 transmits a frame including information (MLA period request element) for requesting the setting of the MLA period to the AP using the 5 GHz band.

[0126] The MLA period request element includes the start time of the MLA period desired by STA1, the length, and the EDCA parameters to be used during the MLA period. The MLA period request element includes at least one of the MLA EDCA parameter, the MLA EDCA parameter, and the MLA period.

[0127] When the AP receives the MLA period request element sent from STA1, it determines whether the MLA period can be set based on the MLA period request element. The criteria for the determination are, for example, the traffic situation of a STA that operates only on a single link under its control, whether there is traffic that requires real-time performance, or whether it has already received an MLA period setup element with different start times, lengths, and EDCA parameters from other STAs.

[0128] If it is determined that the MLA period can be set, the AP sets the MLA period and notifies the MLA period setup element and the non-MLA period setup element. In FIG. 10, an example in which the period from time t14 to time t17 is set as the MLA period is shown.

[0129] At time t12, the AP uses the 5 GHz band to transmit the MLA period setup element and the non-MLA period setup element, for example, included in a Beacon. Also, at time t13, the AP uses the 6 GHz band to transmit the MLA period request element and the non-MLA period setup element, for example, included in a Beacon.

[0130] When STA1 receives the MLA period setup element and the non-MLA period setup element, if it performs MLA transmission during the MLA period, it uses the MLA EDCA parameter and sets the waiting time and transmission period based on the MLA EDCA parameter. When STA1 performs non-MLA transmission during the MLA period, it uses the non-MLA EDCA parameter and sets the waiting time and transmission period based on the non-MLA EDCA parameter.

[0131] At time t14, the MLA period starts.

[0132] At time t15 during the MLA period, which is the set waiting time and transmission period, the AP uses the 5GHz band and the 6GHz band to transmit a Beacon for the set waiting time and transmission period. In this way, during the MLA period, the AP may simultaneously transmit Beacons between links. As a result, operations performed immediately after the transmission of Beacons such as Multicast can also perform MLA transmission using multiple links.

[0133] Triggered by the reception of the Beacon at time t15, STA1 performs MLA transmission of Data to the AP at time t16 using the 5GHz band and the 6GHz band. By inducing MLA transmission by such a trigger during the MLA period, the AP can also prioritize MLA transmission.

[0134] At time t17 after the completion of the MLA transmission of STA1, the MLA period ends.

[0135] Note that during the period of the MLA period, the STA may send an MLA period request element to end the MLA period early or extend the MLA period.

[0136] Also, in FIG. 10, the information regarding the setting of the MLA period was included in the Beacon and transmitted, but it may also be included and transmitted in a Probe response frame transmitted in response to a Probe request frame, etc.

[0137] <Configuration example of MLA period request element> FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the MLA period request element.

[0138] In FIG. 11, the fields of the MLA period request element consist of fields such as Element ID, Length, Element ID extension,..., MLA period parameter #1,....

[0139] In the fields of Element ID and Element ID extension, information indicating that this element is an MLA period request element is described.

[0140] In the field of Length, information regarding the length of this element is described.

[0141] In the field of MLA period request parameter, the MLA EDCA parameter desired by STA1 and the time information of the MLA period desired by STA1 are described.

[0142] The field of MLA period request parameter consists of fields such as link ID / AC, Buffer Status, AIFSN, CW, TXOP, and MLA period. link ID / AC, Buffer Status, AIFSN, CW, and TXOP are MLA EDCA parameters.

[0143] In the field of link ID / AC, the corresponding link information or AC information is described.

[0144] In the field of Buffer Status, the current status of its own buffer is described for notification to the AP.

[0145] In the field of AIFSN, the AIFSN to be used during the MLA period is described.

[0146] In the field of CW, the CW min , CW max is described.

[0147] In the field of TXOP, the TXOP limit to be used during the MLA period is described.

[0148] In the field of MLA period, the time information of the desired MLA period is described.

[0149] <3. Others> <Effect> As described above, in the present technology, the first parameter used for the communication setting in which the wireless communication terminal uses a plurality of links and the second parameter used for the communication setting in which the wireless communication terminal uses a single link are transmitted.

[0150] Therefore, the values of the first parameter and the second parameter can be set so as to prioritize communication using a plurality of links.

[0151] For example, the value of AIFSN or CW of the first parameter is set smaller than the value of AIFSN or CW of the second parameter.

[0152] For example, the upper limit value of TXOP of the first parameter is set longer than the upper limit value of TXOP of the second parameter.

[0153] Furthermore, information regarding a predetermined period during which the wireless communication terminal communicates based on the setting using the first parameter is transmitted.

[0154] Thereby, it is possible to increase the transmission opportunity by communication using a plurality of links rather than communication using a single link.

[0155] Also, it becomes easier to transmit a Beacon simultaneously on a plurality of links. Thereby, it becomes easy to realize an operation that occurs immediately after a Beacon such as Multicast.

[0156] Furthermore, when communicating using a single link, instead of the TXOP limit being restricted, new information for highly reliable communication is described in the frame. Thereby, highly reliable communication can be carried out even in communication using a single link, and fairness between communication using a plurality of links and communication using a single link can be maintained.

[0157] <Configuration example of a computer> The above-described series of processes can be executed by hardware or by software. When the series of processes is executed by software, a program constituting the software is installed from a program recording medium into a computer in which the program is incorporated in dedicated hardware, or a general-purpose personal computer or the like.

[0158] FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the hardware of a computer that executes the above-described series of processes by a program.

[0159] A CPU (Central Processing Unit) 301, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 302, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 303 are interconnected by a bus 304.

[0160] The bus 304 is further connected to an input / output interface 305. An input unit 306 composed of a keyboard, a mouse, etc., and an output unit 307 composed of a display, a speaker, etc. are connected to the input / output interface 305. Further, a storage unit 308 composed of a hard disk, a non-volatile memory, etc., a communication unit 309 composed of a network interface, etc., and a drive 310 for driving a removable medium 311 are connected to the input / output interface 305.

[0161] In the computer configured as described above, for example, the CPU 301 loads and executes a program stored in the storage unit 308 via the input / output interface 305 and the bus 304 into the RAM 303, thereby performing the above-described series of processes.

[0162] The program executed by the CPU 301 is recorded, for example, on the removable medium 311, or provided via a wired or wireless transmission medium such as a local area network, the Internet, or digital broadcasting, and installed in the storage unit 308.

[0163] Note that the program executed by the computer may be a program in which processing is performed in time series in the order described in this specification, or may be a program in which processing is performed in parallel or at a necessary timing such as when a call is made.

[0164] Note that in this specification, a system means a collection of a plurality of components (devices, modules (parts), etc.), and it does not matter whether all the components are in the same housing. Therefore, a plurality of devices housed in separate housings and connected via a network, and a single device in which a plurality of modules are housed in one housing are both systems.

[0165] Also, the effects described in this specification are merely examples and are not limiting, and there may be other effects.

[0166] The embodiments of the present technology are not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible without departing from the gist of the present technology.

[0167] For example, the present technology can adopt a cloud computing configuration in which one function is shared and jointly processed by a plurality of devices via a network.

[0168] In addition, each step described in the above flowchart can be executed by one device or can be shared and executed by a plurality of devices.

[0169] Furthermore, when a plurality of processes are included in one step, the plurality of processes included in that one step can be executed by one device or can be shared and executed by a plurality of devices.

[0170] <Example of configuration combination> The present technology can also adopt the following configuration. (1) A communication unit that transmits a first parameter used for setting communication in which a wireless communication terminal uses a plurality of links and a second parameter used for setting communication in which the wireless communication terminal uses a single link. Wireless communication device. (2) The first parameter includes a parameter related to a period during which the wireless communication terminal communicates based on a setting using the first parameter or the second parameter. The wireless communication device according to (1) above. (3) The parameter related to the period is the start time of the period and the length of the period. The wireless communication device according to (2) above. (4) The parameter related to the period indicates the end of the period. The wireless communication device according to (2) above. (5) The first parameter and the second parameter include parameters related to obtaining a transmission opportunity. The wireless communication device according to (1) above. (6) The first parameter and the second parameter include, as parameters related to acquisition of the transmission opportunity, a parameter related to a transmission interval of a frame or a parameter related to a waiting time for transmission. The transmission interval of the frame and the waiting time for transmission are set to be smaller in the first parameter than in the second parameter. The wireless communication device according to (5) above. (7) The first parameter and the second parameter include, as parameters related to acquisition of the transmission opportunity, a value related to an occupation time of a channel. The value related to the occupation time of the channel is set to be longer in the first parameter than in the second parameter. The wireless communication device according to (5) above. (8) The communication unit transmits the first parameter and the second parameter for each link information or for each access category information. The wireless communication device according to any one of (1) to (7) above. (9) The communication unit transmits, as the second parameter, conventional EDCA (Enhanced Distributed Channel Access) parameters. The wireless communication device according to any one of (1) to (7) above. (10) A wireless communication device transmits a first parameter used for setting communication in which a wireless communication terminal uses a plurality of links and a second parameter used for setting communication in which the wireless communication terminal uses a single link. A wireless communication method. (11) A communication unit that performs communication based on a setting using a first parameter used for setting communication in which a plurality of links are used or a second parameter used for setting communication in which a single link is used. A wireless communication terminal. (12) The communication unit performs communication based on the setting using the first parameter or the second parameter during the period included in the first parameter. The wireless communication terminal according to (11) above. (13) The communication unit performs communication using the plurality of links based on the setting using the first parameter. The wireless communication terminal according to (12) above. (14) The communication unit performs communication using the single link based on the setting using the second parameter. The wireless communication terminal according to (12) above. (15) When the second parameter includes a value related to the channel occupancy time, the wireless communication terminal further includes a control unit that uses a part of the field for describing the value related to the occupancy time of the header in the data to be transmitted for other communication information. The wireless communication terminal according to (14) above. (16) The other communication information is at least one of information indicating communication using HARQ (Hybrid Automatic Repeat Request), information for prohibiting transmission by overlapping transmission timing in spatial reuse for communication with the setting using the second parameter, redundant information for error checking by CRC, information related to the number of connections, and information related to coding. The wireless communication terminal according to (15) above. (17) The communication unit transmits information for requesting the setting of the period to the wireless communication device. The wireless communication terminal according to any one of (12) to (16) above. (18) The information for requesting the setting of the period includes at least one of the first parameter, the second parameter, and information related to the period. The wireless communication terminal according to (17) above. (19) A wireless communication terminal communicates based on a setting using a first parameter used for setting communication using a plurality of links or a second parameter used for setting communication using a single link during a predetermined period. A wireless communication method.

Explanation of Signs

[0171] 11 Wireless communication device, 12 Wireless communication terminal, 31 Control unit, 32 Power supply unit, 33-1 and 33-2 Communication unit, 35 Memory unit, 50 Memory unit, 51 Data processing unit, 52 Wireless control unit, 53 Modulation / demodulation unit, 54 Signal processing unit, 55 Channel estimation unit, 56-1 to 56-N Wireless I / F unit, 57-1 to 57-N Amplifier unit, 58-1 to 58-N Antenna

Claims

1. A wireless communication device comprising a communication unit that transmits a first parameter used for setting communication in which a wireless communication terminal uses a plurality of links and a second parameter used for setting communication in which the wireless communication terminal uses a single link.

2. The first parameter includes a parameter related to a period during which the wireless communication terminal communicates based on a setting using the first parameter or the second parameter. The wireless communication device according to claim 1.

3. The parameter related to the period indicates a start time of the period and a length of the period. The wireless communication device according to claim 2.

4. The parameter related to the period indicates an end of the period. The wireless communication device according to claim 2.

5. The first parameter and the second parameter include parameters related to acquisition of a transmission opportunity. The wireless communication device according to claim 1.

6. The first parameter and the second parameter include, as parameters related to acquisition of the transmission opportunity, a parameter related to a transmission interval of a frame or a parameter related to a waiting time for transmission, and the transmission interval of the frame and the waiting time for transmission are set to be smaller in the first parameter than in the second parameter. The wireless communication device according to claim 5.

7. The first parameter and the second parameter include, as parameters related to acquisition of the transmission opportunity, a value related to an occupancy time of a channel, and the value related to the occupancy time of the channel is set to be longer in the first parameter than in the second parameter. The wireless communication device according to claim 5.

8. The communication unit transmits the first parameter and the second parameter for each link information or for each access category information. The wireless communication device according to claim 1.

9. The communication unit transmits, as the second parameter, conventional EDCA (Enhanced Distributed Channel Access) parameters. The wireless communication device according to claim 1.

10. A wireless communication method in which a wireless communication device transmits a first parameter used for setting communication in which a wireless communication terminal uses a plurality of links and a second parameter used for setting communication in which the wireless communication terminal uses a single link.

11. A communication unit that performs communication based on a setting using a first parameter used for setting communication using a plurality of links or a second parameter used for setting communication using a single link is provided. A wireless communication terminal.

12. During the period included in the first parameter, the communication unit performs communication based on a setting using the first parameter or the second parameter. The wireless communication terminal according to claim 11.

13. Based on the setting using the first parameter, the communication unit performs communication using the plurality of links. The wireless communication terminal according to claim 12.

14. Based on the setting using the second parameter, the communication unit performs communication using the single link. The wireless communication terminal according to claim 12.

15. When the second parameter includes a value related to the occupation time of a channel, the wireless communication terminal further includes a control unit that uses a part of a field for describing the value related to the occupation time of a header in data to be transmitted for other communication information. The wireless communication terminal according to claim 14.

16. The other communication information is at least one of information indicating communication using HARQ (Hybrid Automatic Repeat Request), information for prohibiting transmission with overlapping transmission timings in spatial reuse for communication set using the second parameter, redundant information for error checking by CRC, information related to the number of connections, and information related to coding. The wireless communication terminal according to claim 15.

17. The communication unit transmits information for requesting setting of the period to a wireless communication device. The wireless communication terminal according to claim 12.

18. The information for requesting setting of the period includes at least one of the first parameter, the second parameter, and information related to the period. The wireless communication terminal according to claim 17.

19. A wireless communication terminal performs communication based on a setting using a first parameter used for setting communication using a plurality of links or a second parameter used for setting communication using a single link. A wireless communication method.

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