Communication method and apparatus

Abstract

The present application provides a communication method and apparatus for improving communication resource utilization of another cell and belongs to the field of communication technologies. In this method, the communication range of a cell of a first network device overlaps with the communication range of a cell of a second network device, so that communication in the cell of the first network device affects the cell of the second network device. In this case, if communication in the cell of the first network device is suspended, for example, if a first broadcast TWT between the first network device and at least one terminal in the cell is suspended, the first network device can notify the cell of the second network device by using suspension information. As a result, the cell of the second network device can send first indication information to at least one terminal in the cell of the second network device, for example, a first terminal in the cell of the second network device, based on the suspension information, to indicate that the first terminal does not need to remain quiet. Therefore, communication resource utilization of the cell of the second network device is improved.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This application relates to the field of communications, and in particular to communications methods and devices.

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202211408438.4, filed with the State Intellectual Property Office of the People's Republic of China on November 10, 2022, and entitled "COMMUNICATION METHOD AND APPARATUS," the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0003] Currently, the existing target wake time (TWT) information frame can be used to suspend individual TWTs or all TWTs associated with the current cell, where all TWTs include individual TWTs and broadcast TWTs. A cell is an area served by a network device or a physical area associated with the signal coverage of a network device.

[0004] However, such a way of operating a cell affects the communication of other cells, and as a result, the communication resource utilization of other cells is reduced. Summary of the Invention

[0005] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Embodiments of the present application provide a communication method and apparatus for improving communication resource utilization of another cell.

[0006] To achieve the aforementioned objectives, the present application uses the following technical solutions:

[0007] According to a first aspect, a communication method is provided, the method including: a first network device acquires suspension information when a first broadcast target wake time TWT between the first network device and at least one terminal is suspended, and sends the suspension information to a second network device, where the at least one terminal is a terminal in a cell of the first network device, the suspension information indicates that the first broadcast TWT is suspended, and a communication range of the cell of the second network device overlaps with a communication range of the cell of the first network device.

[0008] From the method according to the first aspect, it can be seen that the communication range of the cell of the first network device overlaps with the communication range of the cell of the second network device, so that communication in the cell of the first network device affects the cell of the second network device. In this case, when communication in the cell of the first network device is suspended, for example, when a first broadcast TWT between the first network device and at least one terminal in the cell is suspended, the first network device can notify the cell of the second network device by using the suspension information. As a result, communication in the cell of the second network device can be resumed. Therefore, the communication resource utilization of the cell of the second network device can be improved.

[0009] In a possible design scheme, the pause information includes at least one of an identifier of the first broadcast TWT or a pause time of the first broadcast TWT. The identifier of the first broadcast TWT may be carried in a broadcast TWT ID field. The identifier of the first broadcast TWT may be the ID of the first broadcast TWT, indicating that the identifier of the broadcast TWT to be paused is the first broadcast TWT. The pause time of the first broadcast TWT may be carried in a next TWT field. The pause time of the first broadcast TWT may include information such as a pause duration, a pause start time, and a pause end time of the first broadcast TWT.

[0010] It will be understood that when multiple broadcast TWTs need to be paused, the first network device needs to indicate the specific broadcast TWTs to be paused and how long the broadcast TWTs will be paused based on the identifier and pause time of each broadcast TWT, in order to prevent the second network device from mistakenly identifying or mistakenly processing the paused broadcast TWTs. Indeed, when only one broadcast TWT needs to be paused, the pause information does not need to carry the identifier of the broadcast TWT. When multiple broadcast TWTs need to be paused, in addition to the first broadcast TWT, the pause information may further include identifiers of TWTs such as the second broadcast TWT and the third broadcast TWT. When the pause times of the paused broadcast TWTs are different, the pause information may further carry the pause times of the paused broadcast TWTs.

[0011] In a possible design scheme, the suspension information includes at least one of a first bitmap or a suspension time of the first broadcast TWT. The first bitmap may be carried in a broadcast TWT ID bitmap to indicate that the first broadcast TWT is suspended. The suspension time of the first broadcast TWT may be carried in a next TWT field. And, the suspension time of the first broadcast TWT may include information such as a suspension duration, a suspension start time, and a suspension end time of the first broadcast TWT.

[0012] Optionally, the first bitmap includes a plurality of bits corresponding to a plurality of broadcast TWTs of the first network device, a position within the plurality of bits associated with a first bit in the plurality of bits indicates the first broadcast TWT, and a value of the first bit indicates that the first broadcast TWT is suspended.

[0013] It can be seen that each bit can indicate whether one broadcast TWT is suspended, and thus multiple bit positions can simultaneously indicate multiple suspended broadcast TWTs. Compared with the above design scheme, the first network device does not need to include multiple broadcast TWT identifiers in the suspension information, thereby reducing overhead. In addition, multiple suspended broadcast TWTs can share the same suspension time. As a result, the number of times suspension information needs to be transmitted can be reduced, and overhead can be further reduced.

[0014] According to a second aspect, a communication method is provided. The method includes: a second network device receives suspension information from a first network device; and, based on the suspension information, sends first indication information to at least one terminal in a cell of the second network device. The suspension information indicates that a first broadcast TWT of the first network device is suspended, where the suspension of the first broadcast TWT means that a broadcast TWT between the first network device and a terminal in the cell of the first network device is suspended, and a communication range of the cell of the first network device overlaps with a communication range of the cell of the second network device. And, the first indication information indicates that the at least one terminal can perform data transmission.

[0015] From the method according to the second aspect, it can be seen that the communication range of the cell of the first network device overlaps with the communication range of the cell of the second network device, so that communication in the cell of the first network device affects the cell of the second network device. In this case, when communication in the cell of the first network device is suspended, for example, when a first broadcast TWT between the first network device and at least one terminal in the cell is suspended, the first network device can notify the cell of the second network device by using the suspension information. As a result, communication in the cell of the second network device can be resumed. For example, the second network device can use the first indication information to indicate to the terminal in the cell of the second network device to perform data transmission without remaining quiet. Therefore, communication resource utilization of the cell of the second network device can be improved.

[0016] In a possible design scheme, the suspension information includes at least one of an identifier of the first broadcast TWT or a suspension time of the first broadcast TWT.

[0017] In a possible design scheme, the suspension information includes at least one of a first bitmap or a suspension time of the first broadcast TWT, where the first bitmap indicates that the first broadcast TWT is suspended.

[0018] Optionally, the first bitmap includes a plurality of bits corresponding to a plurality of broadcast TWTs of the first network device, a position within the plurality of bits associated with a first bit in the plurality of bits indicates the first broadcast TWT, and a value of the first bit indicates that the first broadcast TWT is suspended.

[0019] In a possible design scheme, the first instruction information indicates that at least one terminal can perform data transmission at a first time, and the first time is a time when the first network device sets up a service period for the first broadcast TWT when the first broadcast TWT is not suspended. In other words, when the first broadcast TWT is not suspended, the first network device needs to access the channel and perform data transmission at the first time. In this case, terminals in the cell of the second network device cannot perform data transmission before channel access at the first time. When the first broadcast TWT is suspended, the second network device can instruct the at least one terminal to perform data transmission without staying quiet at the first time based on the first instruction information. As a result, resource utilization can be improved.

[0020] Optionally, the second network device sets up a second broadcast TWT, where the second broadcast TWT is a broadcast TWT for which at least one terminal is not permitted to set up a service period of the broadcast TWT with the second network device, the time duration of the service period of the second broadcast TWT is the same as the time duration of the service period of the first broadcast TWT, and the first indication information indicates that the second broadcast TWT is canceled or suspended. It will be understood that the second network device may set up a second broadcast TWT whose service period is aligned with the service period of the first broadcast TWT, and terminal access is not permitted for the second broadcast TWT. Thus, terminals in the cell of the second network device may be instructed to remain quiet during channel access of the first broadcast TWT. This avoids interference with channel establishment of the first broadcast TWT, thereby protecting channel access of the first broadcast TWT. Based on this, after receiving the suspension information of the first broadcast TWT, the second network device may use the first indication information to directly indicate that the second broadcast TWT is canceled or suspended, so that at least one terminal can perform data transmission during the first time without staying quiet, and thus can improve resource utilization.

[0021] In a possible design scheme, the method further includes: when the second broadcast TWT is canceled, the second network device sends second instruction information to at least one terminal. The second instruction information instructs the at least one terminal to set up a third broadcast TWT after the first broadcast TWT is resumed, where the time duration of the service period of the third broadcast TWT is the same as the time duration of the service period of the first broadcast TWT, and the third broadcast TWT is a broadcast TWT for which at least one terminal is not allowed to set up a service period of the broadcast TWT with the second network device. When the first broadcast TWT is resumed, the second network device resets the second broadcast TWT by using the second instruction information to continue protecting the channel access of the first broadcast TWT.

[0022] For other technical effects of the method according to the second aspect, please refer to the technical effects of the method according to the first aspect, and the details will not be described again in this specification.

[0023] According to a third aspect, a communication method is provided, the method including: a first terminal in a cell of a second network device receives first indication information from the second network device and performs data transmission, the first indication information indicating that at least one terminal in the cell of the second network device can perform data transmission, the communication range of the cell of the second network device overlaps with the communication range of the cell of the first network device, a first broadcast TWT of the first network device is suspended, and the suspension of the first broadcast TWT means that the broadcast TWT between the first network device and the terminal in the cell of the first network device is suspended.

[0024] In a possible design scheme, the first instruction information indicates that at least one terminal can perform data transmission at a first time, and the first time is the time when the first network device sets up a service period for the first broadcast TWT when the first broadcast TWT is not suspended.

[0025] Optionally, the second network device sets up a second broadcast TWT, the second broadcast TWT being a broadcast TWT for which at least one terminal is not allowed to set up a service period of the broadcast TWT with the second network device, and the time duration of the service period of the second broadcast TWT is the same as the time duration of the service period of the first broadcast TWT, and the first indication information indicates that the second broadcast TWT has been canceled or suspended.

[0026] In a possible design scheme, the method further includes: when the second broadcast TWT is canceled, the first terminal receives second instruction information from the second network device, where the second instruction information indicates to set up a third broadcast TWT after the first broadcast TWT is resumed, the time duration of the service period of the third broadcast TWT is the same as the time duration of the service period of the first broadcast TWT, and the third broadcast TWT is a broadcast TWT for which at least one terminal is not allowed to set up a service period of the broadcast TWT with the second network device.

[0027] For the technical effects of the method according to the third aspect, please refer to the technical effects of the method according to the second aspect, and the details will not be described again in this specification.

[0028] According to a fourth aspect, there is provided a communications device, comprising modules, for example a transceiver module and a processing module, configured to perform the method according to the first aspect.

[0029] The processing module is configured to acquire suspension information when a first broadcast target wake time TWT between a first network device and at least one terminal is suspended, the at least one terminal being a terminal within a cell of the first network device, and the suspension information indicates that the first broadcast TWT is suspended. The transceiver module is configured to transmit the suspension information to a second network device, the communication range of the cell of the second network device overlapping the communication range of the cell of the first network device.

[0030] In a possible design scheme, the suspension information includes at least one of an identifier of the first broadcast TWT or a suspension of the first broadcast TWT.

[0031] In a possible design scheme, the suspension information includes at least one of a first bitmap or a suspension time of the first broadcast TWT, where the first bitmap indicates that the first broadcast TWT is suspended.

[0032] Optionally, the first bitmap includes a plurality of bits corresponding to a plurality of broadcast TWTs of the first network device, a position within the plurality of bits associated with a first bit in the plurality of bits indicates the first broadcast TWT, and a value of the first bit indicates that the first broadcast TWT is suspended.

[0033] Optionally, the transceiver module may include a transmitting module and a receiving module, the transmitting module configured to perform transmitting functions of a communication device according to the fourth aspect, and the receiving module configured to perform receiving functions of a communication device according to the fourth aspect.

[0034] Optionally, the communication device according to the fourth aspect may further include a storage module storing a program or instruction, which, when executed by the processing module, enables the communication device to perform the method according to the first aspect.

[0035] It will be understood that the communication device according to the fourth aspect may be a terminal, for example, a remote device, or may be a chip (system) or another part or component that may be located in a terminal, or may be a device that includes a terminal, although this is not a limitation in the present application.

[0036] In addition, for the technical effects of the communication device according to the fourth aspect, please refer to the technical effects of the method according to the first aspect, and the details will not be described again in this specification.

[0037] According to a fifth aspect, there is provided a communications device, the communications device comprising modules, for example a transceiver module and a processing module, configured to perform the method according to the second aspect.

[0038] The transceiver module is configured to receive suspension information from a first network device, the suspension information indicating that a first broadcast target wake time TWT of the first network device is suspended, where the suspension of the first broadcast TWT means that the broadcast TWT between the first network device and a terminal in a cell of the first network device is suspended, and a communication range of the cell of the first network device overlaps with a communication range of a cell of the second network device. The processing module is configured to send first indication information to at least one terminal in the cell of the second network device based on the suspension information, the first indication information indicating that the at least one terminal is able to perform data transmission.

[0039] In a possible design scheme, the suspension information includes at least one of an identifier of the first broadcast TWT or a suspension of the first broadcast TWT.

[0040] In a possible design scheme, the suspension information includes at least one of a first bitmap or a suspension time of the first broadcast TWT, where the first bitmap indicates that the first broadcast TWT is suspended.

[0041] Optionally, the first bitmap includes a plurality of bits corresponding to a plurality of broadcast TWTs of the first network device, a position within the plurality of bits associated with a first bit in the plurality of bits indicates the first broadcast TWT, and a value of the first bit indicates that the first broadcast TWT is suspended.

[0042] In a possible design scheme, the first instruction information indicates that at least one terminal can perform data transmission at a first time, and the first time is the time when the first network device sets up a service period for the first broadcast TWT when the first broadcast TWT is not suspended.

[0043] Optionally, the second network device sets up a second broadcast TWT, where the second broadcast TWT is a broadcast TWT in which at least one terminal is not allowed to set up a service period of the broadcast TWT with the second network device, and the time duration of the service period of the second broadcast TWT is the same as the time duration of the service period of the first broadcast TWT; and The first indication information indicates that the second broadcast TWT is canceled or suspended.

[0044] Optionally, the transceiver module is further configured to send second instruction information to the at least one terminal when the second broadcast TWT is canceled, the second instruction information indicating to set up a third broadcast TWT after the first broadcast TWT is resumed, where a time duration of a service period of the third broadcast TWT is the same as that of the first broadcast TWT, and the third broadcast TWT is a broadcast TWT for which the at least one terminal is not allowed to set up a service period of the broadcast TWT with the second network device.

[0045] Optionally, the transceiver module may include a transmitting module and a receiving module, the transmitting module configured to perform a transmitting function of the communication device according to the fifth aspect, and the receiving module configured to perform a receiving function of the communication device according to the fifth aspect.

[0046] Optionally, the communication device according to the fifth aspect may further include a storage module storing a program or instruction, which, when executed by the processing module, enables the communication device to perform the method according to the second aspect.

[0047] It will be understood that the communication device according to the fifth aspect may be a terminal, for example, a remote device, or may be a chip (system) or another part or component that may be located in a terminal, or may be a device that includes a terminal, although this is not a limitation in the present application.

[0048] In addition, for the technical effects of the communication device according to the fifth aspect, please refer to the technical effects of the method according to the second aspect, and the details will not be described again in this specification.

[0049] According to a sixth aspect, there is provided a communications device, the communications device comprising modules, for example a transceiver module and a processing module, configured to perform the method according to the third aspect.

[0050] The transceiver module is configured to receive first indication information from the second network device, the first indication information indicating that at least one terminal in a cell of the second network device can perform data transmission, that a communication range of the cell of the second network device overlaps with a communication range of the cell of the first network device, and that a first broadcast target wake time TWT of the first network device is suspended, whereby the suspension of the first broadcast TWT means that the broadcast TWT between the first network device and terminals in the cell of the first network device is suspended. The processing module is configured to perform data transmission based on the first indication information.

[0051] In a possible design scheme, the first instruction information indicates that at least one terminal can perform data transmission at a first time, and the first time is the time when the first network device sets up a service period for the first broadcast TWT when the first broadcast TWT is not suspended.

[0052] Optionally, the second network device sets up a second broadcast TWT, the second broadcast TWT being a broadcast TWT in which at least one terminal is not allowed to set up a service period of the broadcast TWT with the second network device, the time duration of the service period of the second broadcast TWT is the same as the time duration of the service period of the first broadcast TWT, and the first indication information indicates that the second broadcast TWT has been canceled or suspended.

[0053] Optionally, the transceiver module is further configured to receive second instruction information from the second network device when the second broadcast TWT is canceled, the second instruction information indicating to set up a third broadcast TWT after the first broadcast TWT is resumed, where the time duration of the service period of the third broadcast TWT is the same as the time duration of the service period of the first broadcast TWT, and the third broadcast TWT is a broadcast TWT for which at least one terminal is not allowed to set up the service period of the broadcast TWT with the second network device.

[0054] Optionally, the transceiver module may include a transmitting module and a receiving module, the transmitting module configured to implement a transmitting function of the communication device according to the sixth aspect, and the receiving module configured to implement a receiving function of the communication device according to the sixth aspect.

[0055] Optionally, the communication device according to the sixth aspect may further include a storage module storing a program or instruction, which, when executed by the processing module, enables the communication device to perform the method according to the third aspect.

[0056] It will be understood that the communication device according to the sixth aspect may be a terminal, for example, a remote device, or may be a chip (system) or another part or component that may be located in a terminal, or may be a device that includes a terminal, although this is not a limitation in the present application.

[0057] In addition, for the technical effects of the communication device according to the sixth aspect, please refer to the technical effects of the method according to the third aspect, and the details will not be described again in this specification.

[0058] According to a seventh aspect, there is provided a communication device, the communication device including a processor, the processor being configured to execute a method according to any one of the possible implementations of the first to third aspects.

[0059] In a possible design scheme, the communication device according to the seventh aspect may further include a transceiver, which may be a transceiver circuit or an interface circuit, which may be used by the communication device according to the seventh aspect to communicate with another communication device.

[0060] In a possible design scheme, the communication device according to the seventh aspect may further include a memory. The memory and the processor may be integrated together or may be located separately. The memory may be configured to store computer programs and / or data for the method according to any one of the first to third aspects.

[0061] In this embodiment of the present application, the communication device according to the seventh aspect may be a terminal according to any one of the first to third aspects, or a chip (system) that may be located in a terminal, or another part or component, or a device including a terminal.

[0062] In addition, for the technical effects of the communication device according to the seventh aspect, please refer to the technical effects of the method according to any one of the implementations of the first to third aspects, and the details will not be described again in this specification.

[0063] According to an eighth aspect, there is provided a communications device, the communications device including a processor coupled to a memory, the processor configured to execute a computer program stored in the memory to enable the communications device to perform a method according to any one of the possible implementations of the first to third aspects.

[0064] In a possible design scheme, the communication device according to the eighth aspect may further include a transceiver, which may be a transceiver circuit or an interface circuit, which may be used by the communication device according to the eighth aspect to communicate with another communication device.

[0065] In this embodiment of the present application, the communication device according to the eighth aspect may be a terminal according to any one of the first to third aspects, or a chip (system) that may be located in the terminal, or another part or component, or a device including the terminal.

[0066] In addition, for the technical effects of the communication device according to the eighth aspect, please refer to the technical effects of the method according to any one of the implementations of the first to third aspects, and the details will not be described again in this specification.

[0067] According to a ninth aspect, there is provided a communication device, the device including a processor and a memory, the memory being configured to store a computer program, the computer program being executed by the processor, the communication device being capable of performing a method according to any one of the implementations of the first to third aspects.

[0068] In a possible design scheme, the communication device according to the ninth aspect may further include a transceiver. The transceiver may be a transceiver circuit or an interface circuit. The transceiver may be used by the communication device according to the ninth aspect to communicate with another communication device.

[0069] In this embodiment of the present application, the communication device according to the ninth aspect may be a terminal according to any one of the first to third aspects, or a chip (system) that may be located in the terminal, or another part or component, or a device including the terminal.

[0070] In addition, for the technical effects of the communication device according to the ninth aspect, please refer to the technical effects of the method according to any one of the implementations from the first aspect to the third aspect, and the details will not be described again in this specification.

[0071] According to a tenth aspect, there is provided a communication system including a remote device, a first relay device, and a second relay device, the remote device, the first relay device, and the second relay device being configured to perform a method according to the third aspect or a method according to the fourth aspect.

[0072] According to a twelfth aspect, there is provided a computer-readable storage medium, the computer-readable storage medium including a computer program or instructions, which, when executed on a computer, enable the computer to perform a method according to any one of the possible implementations of the first to third aspects.

[0073] According to a twelfth aspect, there is provided a computer program product, the computer program product comprising computer programs or instructions which, when executed on a computer, enable the computer to carry out a method according to any one of the possible implementations of the first to third aspects. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0074] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the operating principle of an r-TWT. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2a is a diagram of the frame structure of the TWT information field. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2b is a diagram of the structure of the broadcast target wake time information subfield. [Figure 2C] FIG. 2c is a diagram of the structure of the restricted target wake time information subfield. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram of the architecture of a communication system according to an embodiment of the present application. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic flow chart of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present application. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram of the structure of an enhanced TWT information frame according to an embodiment of the present application. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram 1 of a frame structure of a management frame according to an embodiment of the present application. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram 2 of a frame structure of a management frame according to an embodiment of the present application. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram 3 of a frame structure of a management frame according to an embodiment of the present application. [Figure 9]FIG. 9 is a diagram 4 of a frame structure of a management frame according to an embodiment of the present application. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram of the structure of an r-TWT suspension information element according to an embodiment of the present application. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram 5 of a frame structure of a management frame according to an embodiment of the present application. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram 6 of a frame structure of a management frame according to an embodiment of the present application. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram 1 of a structure of a communication device according to an embodiment of the present application. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram 2 of the structure of a communication device according to an embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0075] For ease of understanding, the following first describes technical terms in the embodiments of the present application.

[0076] 1.TWT:

[0077] TWT is a technology defined in wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) 6 for energy saving. The core idea of ​​TWT is to set some periodic time periods, so that some devices only need to stay in an active state during these TWT service periods (TWT SP), and can sleep at other times to save energy.

[0078] TWT is classified into individual TWT and broadcast TWT. In individual TWT, each station (STA) may set up a TWT agreement with an access point (AP) separately. Therefore, each STA may have its own active time period and sleep time period. In broadcast TWT, an AP may set up a public TWT agreement for a group of STAs. Then, multiple STAs operate during the same active time period and sleep during another time period.

[0079] Specifically, in the case of broadcast TWT, it is the restricted target wake time (r-TWT). r-TWT is a new mechanism defined in the wireless local area network (WLAN) 802.11be to guarantee low-latency service, and 802.11be is called extreme high throughput (EHT). The predecessor standards to 802.11be, such as IEEE 802.11a, IEEE 802.11ac, and IEEE 802.11ax, are collectively called non-high throughput (Non-EHT). Regarding cells, a cell can be an area served by an extreme high throughput access point (EHT AP) or a physical area of ​​signal coverage of an extreme high throughput access point. For example, Cell 1 is the area served by EHT AP 1, and Cell 1 includes EHT AP 1 and three STAs. STA1 and STA2 are EHT stations, and STA3 is a non-EHT station. Figure 1 is a diagram showing the working principle of r-TWT. As shown in Figure 1, EHT AP1 broadcasts one or more r-TWT SPs by using a beacon frame or a probe response frame. After receiving the r-TWT elements, STA1 and STA2 decide whether to join the r-TWT group.

[0080] If STA1 sends a request to EHT AP1 to join the r-TWT group, and EHT AP1 sends a response to STA1 indicating that STA1 is allowed to join the r-TWT group, STA1 is an EHT station in the r-TWT group. If STA2 does not send a request to EHT AP1 to join the r-TWT group, or if STA2 sends a request to EHT AP1 to join the r-TWT group, but EHT AP1 does not allow STA1 to join the r-TWT group, STA2 is an EHT station outside the r-TWT group.

[0081] After receiving any r-TWT SP broadcast by EHT AP1, STA1, STA2, or STA3 preemptively terminates its transmitter before the r-TWT SP starts. In addition, EHT AP1 may include a quiet element in the beacon frame or probe response frame. The quiet element may include a quiet interval aligned with the start time of the r-TWT SP, and the duration is one time unit (TU), which may also be referred to as 1 millisecond (ms), where 1 TU = 1024 microseconds (μs). For example, after EHT AP1 and STA1 perform channel access at the start time of the r-TWT SP, STA1 may transmit a data frame to EHT AP1. Then, EHT AP1 may send an acknowledgment frame to STA1 based on the received data frame to perform data transmission.

[0082] The EHT AP1 uses the quiet element to instruct the EHT STAs belonging to the r-TWT group to ignore the quiet interval and contend for the channel after the r-TWT SP starts. A station not belonging to the r-TWT group or another non-EHT station must remain quiet for 1 TU from the start time of the r-TWT SP based on the quiet interval. In other words, the EHT STA1 can ignore the quiet interval and contend for the channel after the r-TWT SP starts, while the EHT STA2 and non-EHT STA3 must remain quiet for 1 TU from the start time of the r-TWT SP based on the quiet interval. In other words, the EHT STA2 and non-EHT STA3 do not perform data transmission within 1 TU from the start time of the r-TWT SP to reduce the number of stations competing for the channel in Cell 1. Therefore, the probability that the station EHT STA1 in the group acquires the channel through contention is increased.

[0083] 2. Overlapping Basic Service Set (OBSS):

[0084] OBSS means that the areas served by different APs or the physical areas of signal coverage of different APs overlap. For example, Cell 1 includes EHT AP1, STA1, STA2, and STA3, and Cell 2 includes EHT AP2, STA4, STA5, and STA6. Cell 1 and Cell 2 are OBSS when the areas served by EHT AP1 and EHT AP2 or the physical areas of signal coverage of EHT AP1 and EHT AP2 at least partially overlap. In other words, the communication ranges of Cell 1 and Cell 2 overlap. In this case, after receiving the beacon frame broadcast by EHT AP1 in Cell 1, STA4, STA5, and STA6 in Cell 2 also need to be quiet for 1 TU from the start time of the r-TWT SP to avoid interference with STA1's r-TWT channel access.

[0085] However, this r-TWT may be suspended when no data is transmitted. In this case, the EHT AP1 and STA1 may trigger the suspension of the r-TWT SP by exchanging a target wake time information frame. The target wake time information frame includes a TWT information field. Figure 2a is a diagram showing the frame structure of the TWT information field. As shown in Figure 2a, the TWT information field includes a TWT flow identifier field, a response requested field, a next TWT request field, a next TWT subfield size field, an All TWT field, a Next TWT field, etc.

[0086] The TWT flow identifier field indicates the identifier of an individual TWT and occupies a total of 3 bits.

[0087] The response requested field indicates whether the peer end is requested to send a TWT information frame and occupies a total of 1 bit. For example, a response requested field set to 1 may indicate that the peer end is requested to send a TWT information frame, and a response requested field set to 0 may indicate that the peer end is not requested to send a TWT information frame.

[0088] The Next TWT Request field indicates whether the peer end is requested to transmit a TWT information frame containing a Next TWT field that is not 0 bits in length, and occupies a total of 1 bit. For example, a Next TWT Request field set to 1 may indicate that the peer end is requested to transmit a TWT information frame containing a Next TWT field that is not 0 bits in length. And a Next TWT Request field set to 0 may indicate that the peer end is requested to transmit a TWT information frame containing a Next TWT field that is 0 bits in length.

[0089] The Next TWT Subfield Size field indicates the length of the next TWT field and occupies a total of 2 bits. For example, a value of 0 in the Next TWT Subfield Size field indicates that the next TWT field is 0 bits long, a value of 1 in the Next TWT Subfield Size field indicates that the next TWT field is 32 bits long, a value of 2 in the Next TWT Subfield Size field indicates that the next TWT field is 48 bits long, and a value of 3 in the Next TWT Subfield Size field indicates that the next TWT field is 64 bits long.

[0090] The Total TWTs field indicates whether all TWTs indicated by this TWT Information Frame are suspended or not, and occupies a total of one bit. For example, an Total TWTs field set to 1 indicates that all TWTs indicated by this TWT Information Frame are suspended, and all TWTs include individual TWTs and broadcast TWTs. An Total TWTs field set to 0 indicates that not all TWTs indicated by this TWT Information Frame are suspended, and in this case, the TWT Flow Identifier field may indicate that a specific individual TWT is suspended.

[0091] The Next TWT field indicates a TWT pause and may occupy 0, 32, 48, or 64 bits.

[0092] When EHT AP1 sends a wake time information frame to STA1, and in the wake time information frame, the response request field is set to 1, the next TWT request field is set to 1, the value of the next TWT subfield size field is 0, and the length of the next TWT field is 0 bits, the wake time information frame sent by AP1 to STA1 does not carry the TWT pause time, and STA1 can send a TWT information frame to AP1 that includes a next TWT field whose length is not 0 bits to notify the AP1 side of the TWT pause time.

[0093] When EHT AP1 transmits a wake time information frame to STA1, and in the wake time information frame, the response request field is set to 1, the next TWT request field is set to 1, the value of the next TWT subfield size field may be 1, 2, or 3, and the length of the next TWT field is not 0 bits, the wake time information frame transmitted by AP1 to STA1 carries the TWT pause time, and STA1 may transmit a TWT information frame to AP1 that includes a next TWT field whose length is not 0 bits. The TWT information frame fed back by STA1 to AP1 and the TWT information frame transmitted by AP1 to STA1 indicate the same TWT pause time.

[0094] When EHT AP1 transmits a wake time information frame to STA1, and in the wake time information frame, the response request field is set to 1, the next TWT request field is set to 0, the value of the next TWT subfield size field is 1, 2, or 3, and the length of the next TWT field is not 0 bits, the wake time information frame transmitted by AP1 to STA1 carries the TWT pause time, and STA1 may transmit a TWT information frame to AP1 including a next TWT field whose length is 0 bits. The TWT information frame fed back by STA1 to AP1 and the TWT information frame transmitted by AP1 to STA1 indicate the same TWT pause time.

[0095] When EHT AP1 transmits a wake time information frame to STA1, and in the wake time information frame, the response request field is set to 0, STA1 does not feed back the TWT information frame to AP1, regardless of whether the next TWT request field is set to 0 or 1. In this case, the value of the next TWT subfield size field cannot be 0. In other words, the TWT information frame transmitted by EHT AP1 to STA1 needs to carry the TWT pause time.

[0096] 2b is a diagram illustrating the structure of the broadcast target wake time information subfield. As shown in FIG. 2b, the broadcast target wake time information subfield may include a restricted TWT traffic information subfield present indication field, a reserved field, a broadcast TWT ID field, a broadcast TWT persistence field, etc. A restricted TWT traffic information subfield present indication field set to 1 indicates that the TWT element includes the restricted target wake time information subfield shown in FIG. 2c below. A restricted TWT traffic information subfield present indication field set to 0 indicates that the TWT element does not include the restricted target wake time information subfield shown in FIG. 2c below. For the specific meaning of the broadcast target wake time information subfield, please refer to the relevant description of the broadcast target wake time information subfield in the prior art. The details will not be described again in this specification.

[0097] 2c is a diagram showing the structure of the restricted target wake time information subfield. As shown in FIG. 2c, the restricted target wake time information subfield includes a traffic information control field, a restricted TWT downlink TID bitmap field, and a restricted TWT uplink TID bitmap field. The restricted TWT downlink TID bitmap includes a downlink traffic identifier bitmap valid field, an uplink traffic identifier bitmap valid field, and a reserved field. For the specific meaning of the restricted target wake time information subfield, please refer to the relevant description of the restricted target wake time information subfield in the prior art. The details will not be described again in this specification.

[0098] However, the TWT information frame can be used to suspend individual TWTs or all TWTs of the current cell. However, another cell whose coverage area at least partially overlaps with that of the current cell does not know the TWT suspension information. In this case, STAs of cells other than the current cell will still remain quiet from the start time of the suspended TWTs of the current cell. As a result, the data transmission efficiency of the other cells will be affected, and therefore the resource utilization of cells other than the current cell will be reduced.

[0099] For example, EHT AP1 sends a TWT information frame to STA1 to indicate that the r-TWT in Cell 1 is suspended. However, EHT AP2 does not know the suspension information of the r-TWT. In this case, STA4, STA5, and STA6 in Cell 2 are still quiet from the start time of the suspended r-TWT in Cell 1. As a result, the data transmission efficiency of Cell 2 is affected, and therefore the communication resource utilization of Cell 2 is reduced.

[0100] To solve the aforementioned technical problems, the embodiments of the present application provide the following technical solutions to improve the communication resource utilization of another cell.

[0101] The following describes the technical solutions of the present application with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0102] The technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application may be applied to various communication systems, such as wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) systems, vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication systems, device-to-device (D2D) communication systems, vehicular Internet communication systems, 4th generation (4G) mobile communication systems, such as long term evolution (LTE) systems, worldwide interoperability for microwave access (WiMAX) communication systems, 5G systems, such as new radio (NR) systems, and future communication systems.

[0103] All aspects, embodiments, or features are presented in this application by describing systems that may include multiple devices, components, modules, etc. It is to be appreciated and understood that each system may include other devices, components, modules, etc. and / or may not include all of the devices, components, modules, etc. described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, combinations of these solutions may be used.

[0104] Additionally, in the embodiments of this application, terms such as "example" and "for example" are used to mean serving as an example, illustration, or illustration. Any embodiment or design scheme described in this application as an "example" should not be described as preferred or having more advantages over another embodiment or design scheme. Rather, the term "example" is used to present concepts in a concrete way.

[0105] In the embodiments of the present application, the terms "information", "signal", "message", "channel", and "signaling" may sometimes be used interchangeably. When the difference between the terms is not emphasized, the meanings represented by the terms may match. The terms "of", "corresponding, relevant", and "corresponding" may sometimes be used interchangeably. Please note that when the difference between the terms is not emphasized, the meanings represented by the terms may match. In addition, " / " referred to in the present application may indicate an "or" relationship.

[0106] It will be understood that, in this application, an "indication" may include a direct indication, an indirect indication, an explicit indication, and an implicit indication. When an indication is described as indicating A, the indication may be understood as conveying A, directly indicating A, or indirectly indicating A.

[0107] In this application, information indicated by the indication information is referred to as to-be-indicated information. In a specific implementation process, there are many ways to indicate the to-be-indicated information. For example, these methods include, but are not limited to, a method in which the to-be-indicated information, for example, the to-be-indicated information itself or an index of the to-be-indicated information, is directly indicated, and a method in which the to-be-indicated information is indirectly indicated by indicating other information. There is an association relationship between the other information and the to-be-indicated information. Alternatively, only a part of the to-be-indicated information may be indicated, and the other part of the to-be-indicated information is known or agreed upon in advance. For example, specific information may alternatively be indicated by using a pre-agreed (e.g., specified in a protocol) arrangement sequence of multiple pieces of information to reduce indication overhead to some extent.

[0108] The information to be instructed may be transmitted as a whole, or may be divided into multiple sub-information for separate transmission. Furthermore, the transmission cycles and / or transmitters of these sub-information may be the same or different. The specific transmission method is not limited in the present application. The transmission cycles and / or transmitters of these sub-information may be predefined, for example, according to a protocol, or may be configured by the transmitting device by sending configuration information to the receiving device. The network architectures and service scenarios described in the embodiments of the present application are intended to more clearly explain the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application and do not constitute limitations on the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of the present application. Those skilled in the art will be aware that with the evolution of network architectures and the emergence of new service scenarios, the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of the present application may also be applicable to similar technical problems.

[0109] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of the present application, the communication system shown in Figure 3 is first used as an example to describe in detail the communication system applicable to the embodiments of the present application. For example, Figure 3 is a diagram of the architecture of a communication system according to the embodiments of the present application.

[0110] As shown in FIG. 3, the communication system mainly includes network devices and terminals.

[0111] The network device may be an AP in a wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) system, a wireless relay node, a wireless backhaul node, various types of macro base stations, micro base stations (also called small cells), relay stations, access points, wearable devices, in-vehicle devices, etc. Alternatively, in a next-generation mobile communication system, the network device may be named in a different manner, and the naming method falls within the scope of protection of the embodiments of the present application, which is not limited in the present application.

[0112] The terminal may also be called a STA, and specifically may be a terminal having transceiver functionality, or may be a chip or chip system that may be located within a terminal. The terminal may also be called user equipment (UE), access terminal, subscriber unit, subscriber station, mobile station (MS), remote station, remote terminal, mobile device, user terminal, terminal, wireless communication device, user agent, or user equipment. The terminal in the embodiments of the present application may be a mobile phone, a cellular phone, a smartphone, a tablet computer (Pad), a wireless data card, a personal digital assistant (PDA) computer, a wireless modem, a handheld device (handset), a laptop computer, a machine type communication (MTC) terminal, a computer with wireless transceiver functionality, a virtual reality (VR) terminal, an augmented reality (AR) terminal, a wireless terminal in industrial control, a wireless terminal in autonomous driving, a wireless terminal in remote medical, a wireless terminal in a smart grid, a wireless terminal in transportation safety, a wireless terminal in a smart city, a wireless terminal in a smart home, an in-vehicle terminal, a road side unit (RSU) with terminal functionality, and the like. Alternatively, the terminal in this application may be an on-vehicle module, on-vehicle assembly, on-vehicle part, on-vehicle chip, or on-vehicle unit that is incorporated into a vehicle as one or more parts or units.

[0113] In an embodiment of the present application, there may be multiple network devices, for example, a first network device and a second network device, and a terminal may be a first terminal accessing a cell of the second network device, and also referred to as a first terminal in a cell of the second network device.

[0114] Because the communication range of the cell of the first network device overlaps with the communication range of the cell of the second network device, communication in the cell of the first network device affects the cell of the second network device. In this case, if communication in the cell of the first network device is suspended, for example, if a first broadcast TWT between the first network device and at least one terminal in the cell is suspended, the first network device may notify the cell of the second network device by using the suspension information. As a result, the cell of the second network device may send first indication information to at least one terminal in the cell of the second network device, for example, the first terminal in the cell of the second network device, based on the suspension information, to indicate that the first terminal may perform data transmission without being maintained quiet. Therefore, communication resource utilization of the cell of the second network device may be improved.

[0115] For ease of understanding, the following will specifically describe the communication method provided in the embodiments of the present application with reference to FIGS.

[0116] For example, Figure 4 is a schematic flowchart of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present application, which is applicable to communication between a first network device, a second network device and a first terminal in the aforementioned communication system.

[0117] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, the procedure of the communication method is as follows.

[0118] S401: A first network device acquires suspension information when a first broadcast target wake time TWT between the first network device and at least one terminal is suspended.

[0119] The at least one terminal is a terminal within the cell of the first network device, and is shown as at least one terminal #1. The cell of the first network device is an area in which the first network device provides communication services, or a physical area of ​​signal coverage of the first network device. For details, please refer to the related description above. The details will not be described again.

[0120] The first broadcast TWT may be a transmission service set up between at least one terminal #1 and the first network device. Specifically, a cell of the first network device may provide a broadcast TWT service, and at least one terminal #1 may join the broadcast TWT service to set up the first broadcast TWT. For example, at least one terminal #1 may access the channel of the first broadcast TWT through channel contention to set up the first broadcast TWT. Then, the at least one terminal #1 may communicate with the first network device within the first broadcast TWT. The first broadcast TWT may include multiple r-TWT SPs. In other words, the first broadcast TWT may be periodic. For example, the first network device may set up one r-TWT SP with at least one terminal #1 at an interval of one period T. The time duration of all r-TWT SPs may be the same. The periodicity T may indicate that the interval between the start times of two adjacent r-TWT SPs of the first broadcast TWT is T.

[0121] It will be understood that at least one terminal #1 may also be represented as a broadcast TWT group, and may be referred to as the first broadcast TWT group or as a terminal in the first broadcast TWT group. In addition, for the first broadcast TWT, please refer to the related description in "1. TWT". Details will not be described again.

[0122] The suspension of the first broadcast TWT means that the first network device and at least one terminal #1 no longer perform data transmission on the channel of the first broadcast TWT. For example, when data transmission is not performed between the first network device and the terminals in the broadcast TWT group, or when data transmission between the first network device and the terminals in the broadcast TWT group is canceled, the broadcast TWT between the first network device and at least one terminal #1 is suspended. There may be multiple suspended broadcast TWTs. Any broadcast TWT may specifically be an r-TWT.

[0123] It will be understood that the first network device may set up multiple broadcast TWTs with terminals in the cell of the first network device, and all of the multiple broadcast TWTs may be suspended. For ease of understanding, the following uses an example in which the first broadcast TWT is suspended for explanation. For the suspension of another broadcast TWT, please refer to the suspension of the first broadcast TWT for understanding. Details will not be described again.

[0124] The suspension information may indicate that the first broadcast TWT is suspended. Specifically, the suspension of the first broadcast TWT may be indicated by using an identifier of the first broadcast TWT or a bitmap corresponding to the first broadcast TWT. Details are described below.

[0125] Scheme A: The suspension is indicated by using the identifier of the first broadcast TWT, in which case the suspension information may include at least one of the following: the identifier of the first broadcast TWT, or the suspension time of the first broadcast TWT.

[0126] The identifier of the first broadcast TWT identifies the first broadcast TWT and may be, for example, an ID of an r-TWT. The suspension time of the first broadcast TWT may include a suspension start time and a suspension end time. Optionally, the identifier may further include a suspension duration of the first broadcast TWT, a suspension resume time of the first broadcast TWT, etc. This is not limited thereto.

[0127] In scheme A, the suspension information may be carried in any one of an extended TWT information frame, a management frame, or a public action frame. In this case, the identifier of the first broadcast TWT may be carried in the broadcast TWT ID field of these frames. The suspension time of the first broadcast TWT may be carried in the next TWT field of these frames.

[0128] Optionally, these frames may further carry a transmitting address (TA) and a receiving address (RA). The transmitting address is a physical address (media access control address, MAC address) of the cell of the first network device, and each network device may have a network identifier, for example, a MAC address. The receiving address is a MAC address of the cell of the second network device. Thus, the first network device may send suspension information of the first broadcast TWT to the second network device based on the MAC address of the cell of the second network device.

[0129] It will be appreciated that an r-TWT may be uniquely identified by using the MAC address of the cell of the first network device and the ID of the r-TWT, such that the second network device may determine the particular broadcast TWT that has been suspended based on the MAC address of the cell of the first network device and the ID of the r-TWT to prevent the second network device from misidentifying or mishandling the suspended r-TWT. Indeed, when the ID of the r-TWT can uniquely identify the r-TWT, the second network device may also determine the particular r-TWT to be suspended based solely on the ID of the r-TWT.

[0130] Case 1: Extended TWT Information Frame:

[0131] As shown in Figure 5, the extended TWT information frame can be obtained through an improvement based on the TWT information field shown in Figure 2a. For example, five bits of the TWT flow identifier field, response request field, and next TWT request field in the TWT information field are replaced with a broadcast TWT identifier field. In other words, the identifier of the first broadcast TWT can be carried by using five bits.

[0132] The All TWTs field indicates whether all r-TWTs of the first network device are suspended and occupies one bit in total. For example, an All TWTs field set to 1 indicates that all r-TWTs of the first network device are suspended and that the suspension time for all r-TWTs is the same. The suspension time can be indicated by using the Next TWT field. In this case, the Broadcast TWT Identifier field is set as a reserved field. An All TWTs field set to 0 indicates that not all r-TWTs of the first network device are suspended. In this case, the first network device can indicate the identifier of a specific suspended r-TWT by using the Broadcast TWT Identifier field. For example, the suspended r-TWT is the first broadcast TWT. In this case, the first network device can indicate that the suspended r-TWT is the first broadcast TWT by using the Broadcast TWT Identifier field.

[0133] It will be understood that the Full TWT field can also be set as a reserved field. Based on this, the first network device can directly indicate the r-TWT that needs to be suspended by using the Broadcast TWT Identifier field. In this case, the meaning of the Next TWT Subfield Size field and the Next TWT field is consistent with that described above. Details will not be described herein.

[0134] Case 2: Management Frames:

[0135] The management frame may have multiple frame structures, which will be described in detail below. Figure 6 is a diagram 1 of the frame structure of a management frame according to an embodiment of the present application. As shown in Figure 6, the management frame may include a frame control field, a duration field, a receiving address field, a sending address field, a TWT information field, a next TWT field, a frame check sequence (FCS) field, etc.

[0136] The frame control field indicates basic information of the management frame, such as the frame type, and occupies a total of 2 bytes.

[0137] The Duration field indicates the duration of exchanging management frames and occupies a total of 2 bytes.

[0138] The receiving address field may occupy 6 bytes, and the meaning of the receiving address field is the same as that of the receiving address field in the extended TWT information frame. The details will not be described again.

[0139] The sender address field may occupy 4 bytes, and the meaning of the sender address field is the same as that of the sender address field in the extended TWT information frame. The details will not be described again.

[0140] The TWT information field indicates the suspension information of the broadcast TWT and may occupy 5 bytes in total, for example, the TWT information field indicates the ID of the suspended broadcast TWT.

[0141] The Next TWT field indicates the pause duration information of the broadcast TWT and can occupy 0, 4, 6, or 8 bytes, i.e., occupies 0, 32, 48, or 64 bits.

[0142] The check field is used to check the correctness of the management frame and occupies a total of 4 bytes.

[0143] The TWT information field includes a Broadcast TWT Identifier field, a Next TWT Field Size field, and a Total TWT field.

[0144] The meanings and specific indication methods of the Broadcast TWT Identifier field, the Next TWT Field Size field, and the Total TWT field are the same as those in Figure 5. For details, please refer to Figure 5 for understanding. The details will not be described again in this specification.

[0145] The amount of bytes occupied by the above-mentioned information elements, such as the frame control field, the duration field, the receiving address field, the sending address field, the TWT information field, the next TWT field, and the check field, is merely an example, and the amount of bytes occupied by the information elements may be adjusted based on the actual situation and is not specifically limited.

[0146] FIG. 7 is a diagram 2 of a frame structure of a management frame according to an embodiment of the present application. As shown in FIG. 7, the difference between this management frame and the management frame shown in FIG. 6 is that all TWT fields in the TWT information field in the management frame are set as reserved fields. In this case, the first network device may indicate the identifier of a broadcast TWT that needs to be suspended by using the broadcast TWT identifier field. It will be understood that the meanings and indication methods of other fields in FIG. 7 are similar to those in FIG. 6. For details, please refer to FIG. 6 for understanding. The details will not be described again in this specification.

[0147] 8 is a diagram 3 of a frame structure of a management frame according to an embodiment of the present application. As shown in FIG. 8, the management frame includes a frame control field, a duration field, a receiving address field, a sending address field, multiple TWT information fields, a check field, etc. The multiple TWT information fields may be a TWT information 1 field, a TWT information 2 field, a TWT information N field, etc.

[0148] Each TWT information field may include a Broadcast TWT Identifier field, a Next TWT Field Size field, a Total TWT field, and a TWT field.

[0149] Compared with the management frame shown in FIG. 6, in the management frame of FIG. 8, the Next TWT field is located in each TWT information field, and each TWT information field occupies a total of 1, 5, 7, or 9 bytes. Each broadcast TWT that needs to be suspended may have one independent TWT information field. And the Next TWT field in each TWT information field may indicate the suspension time of the suspended broadcast TWT. When the Total TWT field is not 0, the transmission of a management frame by the first network device to the second network device may indicate multiple suspended broadcast TWTs and a suspension corresponding to each suspended broadcast TWT. The suspension duration of each suspended broadcast TWT may be different.

[0150] If the all TWT fields in any TWT information field are set to 1, it indicates that all broadcast TWTs of the first network device are suspended. In this case, the suspension of each suspended broadcast TWT is the same. In this case, the broadcast TWT identifier field in each TWT information field may be set as a reserved field for use as a subsequent extension field.

[0151] It will be understood that the meanings and indication methods of other fields in Figure 8 are similar to those in Figure 6. For details, please refer to Figure 6 for understanding. The details will not be described again in this specification.

[0152] FIG. 9 is a diagram 4 illustrating a frame structure of a management frame according to an embodiment of the present application. As shown in FIG. 9, the difference between this management frame and the management frame illustrated in FIG. 8 is that all TWT fields in each TWT information field in the management frame are set as reserved fields. In other words, the management frame does not support using one TWT information field to indicate that all broadcast TWTs are suspended. In this case, the first network device may indicate the identifiers of the broadcast TWTs that need to be suspended by using each broadcast TWT identifier field. It should be understood that the meanings and indication methods of the other fields in FIG. 9 are similar to those in FIG. 6. For details, please refer to FIG. 6 for understanding. The details will not be described again in this specification.

[0153] Table 1 shows the main structure of a public action frame, which may include a category field, a public action field, and an r-TWT pause information element. For the meanings of the category field and the public action field, please refer to the relevant descriptions in the prior art. The details will not be described in this specification. [Table 1]

[0154] 10 is a diagram illustrating a structure of an r-TWT pause information element according to an embodiment of the present application. As shown in FIG. 10, the r-TWT pause information element includes an element ID field, a length field, a TWT information field, a next TWT field, etc.

[0155] The element identifier field indicates the identifier of the r-TWT pause information element and occupies a total of 1 byte.

[0156] The length field indicates the length of the r-TWT pause information element and occupies a total of 1 byte.

[0157] The number of bytes occupied by the aforementioned information elements, such as the element identifier field and the length field, is merely an example. The amount of bytes occupied by the information elements may be adjusted based on the actual situation and is not specifically limited.

[0158] The meanings and indication methods of other fields in Figure 10 are the same as those in Figure 6. For details, please refer to Figure 6 for understanding. The details will not be described again in this specification.

[0159] It will be understood that all structures of the TWT information field described in Figures 6 to 9 can be applied to the r-TWT pause information element. Details will not be described again. In addition, the configuration of the TWT information field described later in Figures 11 and 12 can also be applied to the r-TWT pause information element. For details, see the related descriptions below in Figures 11 and 12.

[0160] Scheme B: The suspension is indicated by using a bitmap corresponding to the first broadcast TWT. In this case, the suspension information may include at least one of the following: a first bitmap of the first broadcast TWT or a suspension period, where the first bitmap indicates that the first broadcast TWT is suspended. The first bitmap includes a plurality of bits corresponding to a plurality of broadcast TWTs associated with the first network device, and indicates a location in the plurality of bits of the first broadcast TWT associated with a first bit in the plurality of bits, and a value of the first bit indicates that the first broadcast TWT is suspended.

[0161] For example, the first bitmap includes 32 bits. In this case, any one of the 32 bits may indicate the first broadcast TWT. For example, the position of the 6th bit in the first bitmap may indicate the first broadcast TWT, and the position of the 6th bit in the first bitmap may be indicated as bit 6. In this case, if bit 6 is set to 1, it indicates that the first broadcast TWT is suspended, or if bit 6 is set to 0, it indicates that the first broadcast TWT can be used normally for transmission. In Scheme B, the suspension information may be carried in a management frame. Therefore, the first bitmap may be carried in a broadcast TWT identifier bitmap field of the frame. The suspension time of the first broadcast TWT may be carried in a next TWT field of the frame.

[0162] FIG. 11 is a diagram 5 illustrating a frame structure of a management frame according to an embodiment of the present application. As shown in FIG. 11, the Broadcast TWT Identifier Bitmap field may occupy 32 bits. Each bit may indicate whether a broadcast TWT is suspended or not. Multiple bit positions may simultaneously indicate multiple suspended broadcast TWTs. This reduces overhead. In this case, multiple suspended broadcast TWTs share the same Next TWT field. In other words, multiple suspended broadcast TWTs have the same suspension time.

[0163] It will be understood that the meanings and specific indication methods of other fields in Figure 11 are similar to those in Figure 6. For details, please refer to Figure 6 for understanding. The details will not be described again in this specification.

[0164] 12 is a diagram 6 of a frame structure of a management frame according to an embodiment of the present application. As shown in FIG. 12, the difference between this management frame and the management frame shown in FIG. 11 is that all TWT fields in the TWT information field in the management frame are set as reserved fields. In this case, the first network device may indicate the identifiers of broadcast TWTs that need to be suspended by using the broadcast TWT identifier bitmap field.

[0165] It will be understood that the meanings and indication methods of other fields in Figure 12 are similar to those in Figure 6. For details, please refer to Figure 6 for understanding. The details will not be described again in this specification.

[0166] It will be understood that any frame containing the Broadcast TWT Identifier field and the Broadcast TWT Identifier Bitmap field, or any method that can indicate that all r-TWTs are suspended, is applicable to the embodiments of the present application. The Extended TWT Information frame, the Management frame, and the Public Action frame are merely examples, and are not limiting herein.

[0167] S402: The first network device transmits suspension information to the second network device, and the second network device receives the suspension information from the first network device.

[0168] The second network device is a network device whose communication range overlaps with the communication range of the first network device, or in other words, the communication range of the cell of the second network device overlaps with the communication range of the cell of the first network device.

[0169] The cell of the second network device is the area where the second network device provides communication services or the physical area of ​​signal coverage of the second network device. For details, please refer to the related description above. The details will not be described again. The communication range of the cell of the second network device overlaps with the communication range of the cell of the first network device, which means that the areas where the first network device and the second network device provide communication services or the physical areas of signal coverage of the first network device and the second network device overlap.

[0170] The first network device may transmit suspension information to the second network device by using an extended information frame, a management frame, and a public action frame. The second network device then determines, based on the received frames, the specific broadcast TWT that has been suspended and the length of time the broadcast TWT will be suspended. For example, EHT AP1 may transmit suspension information to EHT AP2 by using an extended information frame. Based on the received extended information frame, the second network device may determine that the suspended broadcast TWT is the first broadcast TWT and determine the suspension time of the first broadcast TWT.

[0171] S403: The second network device sends, based on the suspension information, first indication information to at least one terminal in the cell of the second network device.

[0172] The first indication information may indicate that at least one terminal (denoted as at least one terminal #2) in the cell of the second network device may perform data transmission at a first time. It will be understood that the at least one terminal #2 may be at least some terminals in the cell of the second network device. This is not limited. For ease of understanding, in this embodiment of the present application, the at least one terminal #2 is all terminals in the cell of the second network device.

[0173] The first time is a time point at which at least one terminal #2 cannot perform data transmission when the first broadcast TWT is not paused. In other words, when the first broadcast TWT is not paused, at least one terminal #2 cannot perform data transmission at the corresponding time point (including the first time point). For ease of explanation, the time point at which at least one terminal #2 cannot perform data transmission is referred to as guard time #1. For example, guard time #1 may be the time point at which at least one terminal #1 sets up the first broadcast TWT with the first network device through channel contention. Specifically, the first time may be a period of time from the start time of the first broadcast TWT, e.g., the start time of the r-TWT SP, in each first broadcast TWT period. In other words, guard time #1 may be a periodic time. For at least one terminal #2, in order to avoid interference with channel contention of at least one terminal #1, the at least one terminal #2 cannot perform data transmission or must remain in a quiet state during guard time #1 of each period.

[0174] In this embodiment of the present application, at least one terminal #2 can remain in quiet state in two manners, which are described separately below.

[0175] Method 11: The second network device directly instructs at least one terminal #2 to remain in the quiet state.

[0176] The first network device needs to broadcast a beacon frame in the process of setting up the first broadcast TWT, and the beacon frame is denoted as beacon frame #1. For specific implementation, please refer to the related description in "1. TWT." Details will not be described again. In this case, the second network device may also receive beacon frame #1. As a result, the second network device may determine the start time and periodicity of the first broadcast TWT based on beacon frame #1, and further determine the guard time #1 of each periodicity. Based on this, the second network device may indicate that at least one terminal #2 needs to remain in a quiet state during the guard time #1 of each period. For example, the second network device may broadcast first instruction information. In this case, the first instruction information may be specifically a beacon frame denoted as beacon frame #2. Unlike beacon frame #1, beacon frame #2 carries a quiet element indicating a quiet state. Correspondingly, upon receiving beacon frame #2, at least one terminal #2 may determine, based on the periodicity and quiet element, that at least one terminal #2 needs to remain in a quiet state during guard time #1 of each periodicity.

[0177] Method 12: The second network device instructs at least one terminal #2 to stay in the quiet state by setting up a second broadcast TWT.

[0178] From the relevant description of Scheme 11, it can be seen that when the second network device determines the guard time #1 of each period, the second network device can still broadcast the first instruction information. In this case, the first instruction information may be a beacon frame, specifically denoted as beacon frame #3. Similar to beacon frame #1, beacon frame #3 is mainly used to set up a second broadcast TWT, whose service period is aligned with that of the first broadcast TWT. For example, the first broadcast TWT and the second broadcast TWT have the same periodicity and start time. After receiving beacon frame #3, at least one terminal #2 may request the second network device to add at least one terminal #2 to the second broadcast TWT based on beacon frame #3. However, the second network device must reject the request of at least one terminal #2. In this case, for at least one rejected terminal #2, the at least one terminal #2 needs to remain in a quiet state for a period of time (denoted as guard time #2) after the start of each periodicity of the second broadcast TWT, thereby avoiding interference with the first broadcast TWT. In this case, since the guard time #2 of each period of the second broadcast TWT is synchronized with the guard time #1 of each period of the first broadcast TWT, the at least one terminal #2 remaining in a quiet state during the guard time #2 of each period of the second broadcast TWT can also avoid interference with the first broadcast TWT.

[0179] It will be understood that Scheme 11 and Scheme 12 can also be combined for implementation, and this is not limited thereto.

[0180] In this embodiment of the present application, when the first broadcast TWT is suspended, at least one terminal #2 no longer needs to remain in a quiet state during the corresponding guard time #1. Here, the guard time #1 is the first time. In other words, the first time can also be understood as a specific time in the periodic guard time #1. In this case, the at least one terminal #2 can resume data transmission during the first time. Specifically, the data transmission can be resumed in several ways, which will be described below.

[0181] Method 21:

[0182] The second network device protects channel access of the first broadcast TWT in method 11. In this case, after receiving suspension information from the first network device, the second network device may broadcast a beacon frame to at least one terminal #2. The beacon frame is shown as beacon frame #4. Unlike beacon frame #2, beacon frame #4 may not carry a quiet element, indicating that at least one terminal #2 does not need to remain in a quiet state at the first time and can perform data transmission. Then, when transmission in the first broadcast TWT should resume, the second network device may still indicate to at least one terminal #2 to remain in a quiet state in method 11. Details will not be described again.

[0183] Method 22:

[0184] The second network device protects channel access for the first broadcast TWT in Scheme 12. In this case, after receiving suspension information from the first network device, the second network device may broadcast a beacon frame to at least one terminal #2. The beacon frame is shown as beacon frame #5. Unlike beacon frame #3, beacon frame #5 may carry a TWT element. The TWT setup command field of the TWT element may be "reject TWT" to indicate that at least one terminal #2 needs to cancel the second broadcast TWT. As a result, at least one terminal #2 does not need to remain quiet for the first time and can perform data transmission. The second network device may then send second instruction information to at least one terminal #2. In this case, the second instruction information may be beacon frame #3, indicating that a third broadcast TWT should be set up after the first broadcast TWT is resumed. The time duration of the service period of the third broadcast TWT is the same as the time duration of the service period of the first broadcast TWT, and the third broadcast TWT is a broadcast TWT in which at least one terminal is not allowed to set up a service period of the broadcast TWT with the second network device. The specific implementation principle is the same as the implementation principle of setting up the second broadcast TWT. For details, please refer to the related description above. The details will not be described again.

[0185] Method 23:

[0186] The second network device protects the channel access of the first broadcast TWT in Scheme 12. In this case, after receiving the suspension information from the first network device, the second network device may send a broadcast frame to at least one terminal #2 to indicate that the second broadcast TWT is suspended. In this case, the second network device usually does not need to perform any related operations to resume the first broadcast TWT.

[0187] It will be understood that the broadcast frame may have any of the structures shown in Figures 6 to 12. This is not a limitation herein. In addition, Schemes 21 to 23 may also be combined in any manner for implementation. This is not a limitation.

[0188] For ease of understanding, the following uses the first terminal of the at least one terminal #2 as an example for explanation.

[0189] S404: A first terminal in a cell of the second network device receives first indication information from the second network device.

[0190] The first terminal may receive a beacon frame or a broadcast frame, i.e., first indication information, from the second network device. For details, see the relevant description in S403. The details will not be described again.

[0191] S405: The first terminal executes data transmission based on the first instruction information.

[0192] The first terminal may perform data transmission in Scheme 21 to Scheme 23. For details, please refer to Scheme 21 to Scheme 23 for understanding. The details will not be described in this specification.

[0193] In conclusion, when the communication range of the cell of the first network device overlaps with the communication range of the cell of the second network device, and therefore communication in the cell of the first network device affects the cell of the second network device, if the communication in the cell of the first network device is suspended, for example, if the first broadcast TWT between the first network device and at least one terminal in the cell is suspended, the first network device can notify the cell of the second network device by using the suspension information. As a result, the cell of the second network device can send first indication information to at least one terminal in the cell of the second network device, for example, the first terminal in the cell of the second network device, based on the suspension information, indicating that the first terminal may perform data transmission without remaining quiet. Therefore, the communication resource utilization of the cell of the second network device can be improved.

[0194] The communication method provided in the embodiment of the present application is described in detail above with reference to Figures 4 to 12. The communication device configured to perform the communication method provided in the embodiment of the present application is described in detail below with reference to Figures 13 and 14.

[0195] 13 is a diagram 1 of a structure of a communication device according to an embodiment of the present application. For example, as shown in FIG. 13, a communication device 1300 includes a transceiver module 1301 and a processing module 1302. Note that, for ease of explanation, FIG. 13 shows only the main parts of the communication device.

[0196] In some embodiments, the communication apparatus 1300 is applicable to the communication system shown in FIG. 3 and performs the functions of the first network device described above.

[0197] For example, the processing module 1302 is configured to acquire suspension information when a first broadcast target wake time TWT between a first network device and at least one terminal is suspended. The at least one terminal is a terminal in a cell of the first network device, and the suspension information indicates that the first broadcast TWT is suspended. The transceiver module 1301 is configured to transmit the suspension information to a second network device. A communication range of the cell of the second network device overlaps with a communication range of the cell of the first network device.

[0198] In a possible design scheme, the suspension information includes at least one of an identifier of the first broadcast TWT or a suspension time of the first broadcast TWT.

[0199] In a possible design scheme, the suspension information includes at least one of a first bitmap of the first broadcast TWT or a suspension time, where the first bitmap indicates that the first broadcast TWT is suspended.

[0200] Optionally, the first bitmap includes a plurality of bits corresponding to a plurality of broadcast TWTs of the first network device, a position in the plurality of bits associated with a first bit in the plurality of bits indicating the first broadcast TWT, and a value of the first bit indicating that the first broadcast TWT is suspended.

[0201] Optionally, the transceiver module 1301 may include a transmitting module (not shown in FIG. 13) and a receiving module (not shown in FIG. 13), where the transmitting module is configured to perform transmitting functions of the communication device 1300, and the receiving module is configured to perform receiving functions of the communication device 1300.

[0202] Optionally, the communications apparatus 1300 may further include a storage module (not shown in FIG. 13 ) that stores programs or instructions. When the processing module 1302 executes the programs or instructions, the communications apparatus 1300 is enabled to perform the functions of a remote UE or remote device in the manners described above and illustrated in FIGS. 10 through 12 .

[0203] It will be understood that the communication device 1300 may be a network device, a chip (system) that may be disposed in a network device, or another part or component, or a device that includes a network device. This is not a limitation in the present application. It will be understood that if the communication device 1300 is a chip (system) disposed in a device, the transceiver module may be an input / output interface of the chip (system), for example, an input / output circuit or pin.

[0204] In addition, for the technical effects of the communication device 1300, please refer to the technical effects of the communication method shown in Figure 4. The details will not be described again in this specification.

[0205] In some embodiments, the communication apparatus 1300 is applicable to the communication system shown in FIG. 3 and performs the functions of a second network device.

[0206] For example, the transceiver module 1301 is configured to receive suspension information from a first network device. The suspension information indicates that a first broadcast target wake time TWT of the first network device is suspended, where the suspension of the first broadcast TWT means that the broadcast TWT between the first network device and a terminal in a cell of the first network device is suspended, and the communication range of the cell of the first network device overlaps with the communication range of the cell of the second network device. The processing module 1302 is configured to send first indication information to at least one terminal in the cell of the second network device based on the suspension information. The first indication information indicates that the at least one terminal can perform data transmission.

[0207] In a possible design scheme, the suspension information includes at least one of an identifier of the first broadcast TWT or a suspension time of the first broadcast TWT.

[0208] In a possible design scheme, the suspension information includes at least one of a first bitmap or a suspension time of the first broadcast TWT, where the first bitmap indicates that the first broadcast TWT is suspended.

[0209] Optionally, the first bitmap includes a plurality of bits corresponding to a plurality of broadcast TWTs of the first network device, and indicates a position in the plurality of bits associated with a first bit in the plurality of bits, the first broadcast TWT, and a value of the first bit indicates that the first broadcast TWT is suspended.

[0210] In a possible design scheme, the first instruction information indicates that at least one terminal can perform data transmission at a first time, and the first time is the time when the first network device sets up a service period for the first broadcast TWT when the first broadcast TWT is not suspended.

[0211] Optionally, the second network device sets up a second broadcast TWT, where the second broadcast TWT is a broadcast TWT in which at least one terminal is not allowed to set up a service period of the broadcast TWT with the second network device, and the time duration of the service period of the second broadcast TWT is the same as the time duration of the service period of the first broadcast TWT; and The first indication information indicates that the second broadcast TWT is canceled or suspended.

[0212] Optionally, the transceiver module 1301 is further configured to send second instruction information to the at least one terminal when the second broadcast TWT is canceled, the second instruction information indicating to set up a third broadcast TWT after the first broadcast TWT is resumed, where the time duration of the service period of the third broadcast TWT is the same as the time duration of the service period of the first broadcast TWT, and the third broadcast TWT is a broadcast TWT for which the at least one terminal is not allowed to set up the service period of the broadcast TWT with the second network device.

[0213] Optionally, the transceiver module 1301 may include a transmitting module (not shown in FIG. 13) and a receiving module (not shown in FIG. 13), where the transmitting module is configured to perform transmitting functions of the communication device 1300, and the receiving module is configured to perform receiving functions of the communication device 1300.

[0214] Optionally, the communication device 1300 may further include a storage module (not shown in FIG. 13 ) that stores programs or instructions. When the processing module 1302 executes the programs or instructions, the communication device 1300 is enabled to perform the functions of a network device in the communication method shown in FIG. 4 .

[0215] It will be understood that the communication device 1300 may be a network device, a chip (system) that may be disposed in a network device, or another part or component, or a device that includes a network device. This is not a limitation in the present application. It will be understood that if the communication device 1300 is a chip (system) disposed in a device, the transceiver module may be an input / output interface of the chip (system), for example, an input / output circuit or pin.

[0216] In addition, for the technical effects of the communication device 1300, please refer to the technical effects of the communication method shown in Figure 4. The details will not be described again in this specification.

[0217] In some embodiments, the communication device 1300 is applicable to the communication system shown in FIG. 3 and performs the functions of the first terminal described above.

[0218] For example, the transceiver module 1301 is configured to receive first instruction information from a second network device, the first instruction information indicating that at least one terminal in a cell of the second network device can perform data transmission, the communication range of the cell of the second network device overlaps with the communication range of the cell of the first network device, and a first broadcast target wake time TWT of the first network device is suspended, where the suspension of the first broadcast TWT means that the broadcast TWT between the first network device and the terminal in the cell of the first network device is suspended. The processing module 1302 is configured to perform data transmission based on the first instruction information.

[0219] In a possible design scheme, the first instruction information indicates that at least one terminal can perform data transmission at a first time, and the first time is the time when the first network device sets up a service period for the first broadcast TWT when the first broadcast TWT is not suspended.

[0220] Optionally, the second network device sets up a second broadcast TWT, the second broadcast TWT being a broadcast TWT in which at least one terminal is not allowed to set up a service period of the broadcast TWT with the second network device, the time duration of the service period of the second broadcast TWT is the same as the time duration of the service period of the first broadcast TWT, and the first indication information indicates that the second broadcast TWT has been canceled or suspended.

[0221] Optionally, the transceiver module 1301 is further configured to receive second instruction information from the second network device when the second broadcast TWT is canceled, the second instruction information indicating to set up a third broadcast TWT after the first broadcast TWT is resumed, where the time duration of the service period of the third broadcast TWT is the same as the time duration of the service period of the first broadcast TWT, and the third broadcast TWT is a broadcast TWT for which at least one terminal is not allowed to set up the service period of the broadcast TWT with the second network device.

[0222] Optionally, the transceiver module 1301 may include a transmitting module (not shown in FIG. 13) and a receiving module (not shown in FIG. 13), where the transmitting module is configured to perform transmitting functions of the communication device 1300, and the receiving module is configured to perform receiving functions of the communication device 1300.

[0223] Optionally, the communication device 1300 may further include a storage module (not shown in FIG. 13 ) that stores programs or instructions. When the processing module 1302 executes the programs or instructions, the communication device 1300 is enabled to perform the functions of a network device in the communication method shown in FIG. 4 .

[0224] It will be understood that the communication device 1300 may be a terminal, a chip (system) that may be disposed in a terminal, or another part or component, or a device including a terminal. This is not limited in this application. It will be understood that if the communication device 1300 is a chip (system) disposed in a device, the transceiver module may be an input / output interface of the chip (system), for example, an input / output circuit or pin.

[0225] In addition, for the technical effects of the communication device 1300, please refer to the technical effects of the communication method shown in Figure 4. The details will not be described again in this specification.

[0226] 14 is a diagram 2 of a structure of a communication device according to an embodiment of the present application. For example, the communication device may be a terminal, or may be a chip (system) or other part or component that may be disposed in a terminal. As shown in FIG. 14 , the communication device 1400 may include a processor 1401. Optionally, the communication device 1400 may further include a memory 1402 and / or a transceiver 1403. The processor 1401 is coupled to the memory 1402 and the transceiver 1403 and may be connected to the memory 1402 and the transceiver 1403 via a communication bus, for example.

[0227] Each unit of the communication device 1400 will be described in detail below with reference to FIG.

[0228] Processor 1401 is the control center of communication device 1400 and may be a single processor or a collective term for multiple processing elements. For example, processor 1401 may be one or more central processing units (CPUs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or may be configured as one or more integrated circuits implementing embodiments of the present application, such as one or more digital signal processors (DSPs) or one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs).

[0229] Optionally, the processor 1401 may execute software programs stored in the memory 1402 and access data stored in the memory 1402 to perform various functions of the communication device 1400, for example, to perform the communication method shown in FIG.

[0230] During specific implementation, in one embodiment, processor 1401 may include one or more CPUs, for example, CPU0 and CPU1 of FIG.

[0231] During specific implementation, in one embodiment, communications device 1400 may also include multiple processors, such as processor 1401 and processor 1404 shown in FIG. 14. Each of the processors may be a single-core (single-CPU) processor or a multi-core (multi-CPU) processor. A processor herein may be one or more devices, circuits, and / or processing cores configured to process data (e.g., computer program instructions).

[0232] The memory 1402 is configured to store a software program for executing the solution of the present application, and the processor 1401 controls the execution. For specific implementation, please refer to the aforementioned method embodiment. The details will not be described again in this specification.

[0233] Optionally, memory 1402 may be read-only memory (ROM) or another type of static storage device capable of storing static information and instructions, random access memory (RAM) or another type of dynamic storage device capable of storing information and instructions, or may be electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM) or another compact disc storage device, optical disc storage device (including compact disc, laser disc, optical disc, digital versatile disc, Blu-ray disc, etc.), magnetic disk storage medium or another magnetic storage device, or any other medium capable of carrying or storing expected program code in the form of instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by a computer. However, memory 1402 is not limited thereto. The memory 1402 may be integrated with the processor 1401 or may exist independently, and is coupled to the processor 1401 via an interface circuit (not shown in FIG. 14) of the communication device 1400. This is not particularly limited in this embodiment of the present application.

[0234] The transceiver 1403 is configured to communicate with another communication device. For example, the communication device 1400 is a terminal, and the transceiver 1403 may be configured to communicate with a network device or another terminal device. For another example, the communication device 1400 is a network device, and the transceiver 1403 may be configured to communicate with a terminal or another network device.

[0235] Optionally, the transceiver 1403 may include a receiver and a transmitter (not separately shown in FIG. 14), where the receiver is configured to implement a receiving function and the transmitter is configured to implement a transmitting function.

[0236] Optionally, the transceiver 1403 may be integrated with the processor 1401 or may exist independently, and is coupled to the processor 1401 via an interface circuit (not shown in FIG. 14) of the communication device 1400. This is not particularly limited in this embodiment of the present application.

[0237] It will be understood that the structure of communications device 1400 shown in Figure 14 does not constitute a limitation on the communications device. An actual communications device may include more or fewer parts than those shown in the figure, or some parts may be combined, or a different part arrangement may be used.

[0238] In addition, for the technical effects of the communication device 1400, please refer to the technical effects of the method in the above method embodiments, and the details will not be described again in this specification.

[0239] It should be understood that the processor in the embodiments of the present application may be a central processing unit (CPU), or the processor may be another general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, a discrete gate or transistor logic device, a discrete hardware component, etc. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, or the processor may be any conventional processor, etc.

[0240] It should be further understood that the memory in the embodiments of the present application may be volatile or nonvolatile memory, or may include both volatile and nonvolatile memory. Nonvolatile memory may be read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or flash memory. Volatile memory may be random access memory (RAM) and used as an external cache. By way of example and not limitation, many forms of random access memory (RAM) may be used, such as static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), double data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDR SDRAM), enhanced synchronous dynamic random access memory (ESDRAM), synchlink dynamic random access memory (SLDRAM), and direct rambus random access memory (DR RAM).

[0241] All or part of the foregoing embodiments may be implemented using software, hardware (e.g., circuits), firmware, or any combination thereof. When software is used to implement an embodiment, all or part of the embodiment may be implemented in the form of a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer instructions or computer programs. When the computer instructions or computer programs are loaded onto a computer and executed, the procedures or functions according to the embodiments of the present application are generated, in whole or in part. The computer may be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or another programmable device. The computer instructions may be stored on a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted from a computer-readable storage medium to another computer-readable storage medium. For example, the computer instructions may be transmitted from a website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via a wired (e.g., infrared, radio, or microwave) method. The computer-readable storage medium may be any available medium accessible by a computer, or a data storage device, such as a server or data center, that integrates one or more available media. The usable media may be magnetic media (e.g., floppy disks, hard disks, or magnetic tapes), optical media (e.g., DVDs), or semiconductor media, which may be solid-state drives.

[0242] It should be understood that the term "and / or" herein describes only an association relationship between related objects and represents that three relationships may exist. For example, A and / or B may represent the following three cases: when only A exists, when both A and B exist, and when only B exists. A and B may be singular or plural. Furthermore, the character " / " herein mostly indicates an "or" relationship between related objects, but can also indicate an "and / or" relationship. For more information, please refer to the context for understanding.

[0243] As used herein, "at least one" means one or more, and "a plurality of" means two or more. "At least one of the following items (moieties)" or similar expressions refers to any combination of these items, including any combination of singular items (moieties) or plural items (moieties). For example, at least one of a, b, or c can refer to a, b, c, ab, ac, bc, or abc, where a, b, and c can be singular or plural.

[0244] It should be understood that the sequence numbers of the above processes do not mean the execution sequence in the embodiments of the present application. The execution order of the processes should be determined based on the functions and internal logic of the processes, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of the present application.

[0245] Those skilled in the art will recognize that, in combination with the examples described in the embodiments disclosed herein, the units and algorithm steps can be implemented by electronic hardware or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether a function is performed by hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art may use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered to go beyond the scope of this application.

[0246] For the sake of convenience and concise description, it will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art that the detailed operation processes of the aforementioned systems, devices and units may be referred to the corresponding processes in the method embodiments, and the details will not be described again in this specification.

[0247] In some embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, devices, and methods may be implemented in other ways. For example, the described device embodiments are merely examples. For example, the division into units is merely a logical functional division, and other divisions may occur during actual implementation. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not implemented. In addition, mutual couplings, direct couplings, or communication connections shown or described may be implemented through some interfaces. Indirect couplings or communication connections between devices or units may be implemented in electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0248] The units described as separate parts may or may not be physically separate, and the parts shown as units may or may not be physical units, i.e., located in one location or distributed over multiple network units. Some or all of the units may be selected based on actual requirements to achieve the objectives of the solution of the embodiment.

[0249] Additionally, the functional units in the embodiments of the present application may be integrated into one processing unit, each of the units may exist physically alone, or two or more units may be integrated into one unit.

[0250] When a function is implemented in the form of a software functional unit and sold or used as an independent product, the function may be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of the present application may essentially, or a portion of the technical solution, be implemented in the form of a software product. The computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes some instructions for instructing a computer device (which may be a personal computer, a server, a network device, etc.) to perform all or part of the steps of the method described in the embodiments of the present application. The aforementioned storage medium includes any medium capable of storing program code, such as a USB flash drive, a removable hard disk, a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a magnetic disk, or an optical disk.

[0251] The above description is merely a specific implementation of the present application and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present application. Any modifications or replacements that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the present application shall fall within the scope of protection of the present application. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present application shall be subject to the scope of protection of the claims.

Claims

1. A communication method When a first broadcast target wake time TWT between a first network device and at least one terminal is suspended, acquiring suspension information by the first network device; The at least one terminal is a terminal in a cell of the first network device, and the suspension information indicates that the first broadcast TWT is suspended. Steps and transmitting, by the first network device, the pause information to a second network device; a communication range of a cell of the second network device overlaps with a communication range of the cell of the first network device; Steps and A method comprising:

2. The suspension information includes at least one of an identifier of the first broadcast TWT or a suspension time of the first broadcast TWT. The method of claim 1.

3. The pause information includes at least one of a first bitmap of the first broadcast TWT or a pause time; The first bitmap indicates that the first broadcast TWT is suspended. The method of claim 1.

4. the first bitmap comprises a plurality of bits corresponding to a plurality of broadcast TWTs of the first network device; a first bit position in the plurality of bits indicates the first broadcast TWT; and The value of the first bit indicates that the first broadcast TWT is suspended. The method of claim 3.

5. 1. A communication method comprising: receiving, by the second network device, suspension information from the first network device; the suspension information indicates that a first broadcast TWT of the first network device is suspended; The first broadcast TWT is suspended means that the broadcast TWT between the first network device and a terminal in a cell of the first network device is suspended; and a communication range of the cell of the first network device overlaps with a communication range of the cell of the second network device; Steps and sending, by the second network device, first indication information to at least one terminal in the cell of the second network device based on the suspension information; the first indication information indicates that the at least one terminal is capable of performing data transmission; Steps and A method comprising:

6. The suspension information includes at least one of an identifier of the first broadcast TWT or a suspension time of the first broadcast TWT. The method of claim 5.

7. The pause information includes at least one of a first bitmap of the first broadcast TWT or a pause time; The first bitmap indicates that the first broadcast TWT is suspended. The method of claim 5.

8. the first bitmap comprises a plurality of bits corresponding to a plurality of broadcast TWTs of the first network device; a first bit position in the plurality of bits indicates the first broadcast TWT; and The value of the first bit indicates that the first broadcast TWT is suspended. The method of claim 7.

9. The first indication information indicates that the at least one terminal is capable of performing data transmission at a first time; and the first time is a time when the first network device sets up a service period of the first broadcast TWT when the first broadcast TWT is not suspended; 9. The method according to any one of claims 5 to 8.

10. the second network device sets up a second broadcast TWT; The second broadcast TWT is a broadcast TWT in which the at least one terminal is not permitted to set up a service period of the broadcast TWT using the second network device; The time duration of the service period of the second broadcast TWT is the same as the time duration of the service period of the first broadcast TWT; and The first indication information indicates that the second broadcast TWT is canceled or suspended.

10. The method of claim 9.

11. The method further comprises: If the second broadcast TWT is canceled, sending second indication information to at least one terminal by a second network device; The second instruction information indicates that a third broadcast TWT is to be set up after the first broadcast TWT is resumed; and The time duration of the service period of the third broadcast TWT is the same as the time duration of the service period of the first broadcast TWT; and The third broadcast TWT is a broadcast TWT in which at least one terminal is not allowed to set up a service period of the broadcast TWT with the second network device. The method of claim 10.

12. A communication method receiving, by a first terminal within a cell of a second network device, first indication information from the second network device; the first indication information indicates that at least one terminal in a cell of the second network device is capable of performing data transmission; a communication range of a cell of the second network device overlaps with a communication range of a cell of the first network device; The first broadcast TWT of the first network device is suspended; and indicating that the first broadcast TWT is suspended means that the broadcast TWT between the first network device and a terminal in a cell of the first network device is suspended; Steps and performing data transmission by the first terminal based on the first instruction information; A method comprising:

13. The first indication information indicates that the at least one terminal is capable of performing data transmission at a first time; and the first time is a time when the first network device sets up a service period of the first broadcast TWT when the first broadcast TWT is not suspended; The method of claim 12.

14. the second network device sets up a second broadcast TWT; The second broadcast TWT is a broadcast TWT in which the at least one terminal is not permitted to set up a service period of the broadcast TWT with the second network device; The time duration of the service period of the second broadcast TWT is the same as the time duration of the service period of the first broadcast TWT; and The first indication information indicates that the second broadcast TWT is canceled or suspended. The method of claim 13.

15. The method further comprises: receiving, by the first terminal, second indication information from a second network device when a second broadcast TWT is canceled; The second instruction information instructs setting up a third broadcast TWT after the first broadcast TWT is resumed; and The time duration of the service period of the third broadcast TWT is the same as the time duration of the service period of the first broadcast TWT; and The third broadcast TWT is a broadcast TWT for which the at least one terminal is not permitted to set up a service period of the broadcast TWT with the second network device. Step, 15. The method of claim 14, comprising:

16. A communication device, The device is configured to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 4. Communication equipment.

17. A communication device, The device is configured to perform the method according to any one of claims 5 to 11. Communication equipment.

18. A communication device, The device is configured to perform the method according to any one of claims 12 to 15. Communication equipment.

19. 1. A communication device comprising a processor and a memory, the memory is configured to store computer instructions; Execution of the instructions by the processor enables the method of any one of claims 1 to 15 to be performed. Communication equipment.

20. 1. A computer-readable storage medium, comprising: the computer-readable storage medium includes a computer program or instruction; The computer program or the instructions, when executed on a computer, enable the computer to carry out the method according to any one of claims 1 to 15. A computer-readable storage medium.

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