Wireless communication control device and wireless communication control method

Abstract

The present technology relates to a communication device and a communication method which make it possible to transmit data with a shorter latency. Provided is a communication device comprising a control unit which, when data is transmitted using a plurality of links corresponding to a predetermined frequency band, sets information pertaining to transmission priority of the plurality of links for each access category of the data. The present technology is applicable, for example, to an apparatus for configuring a wireless LAN system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present technology relates to Wireless communication control devices, and Wireless communication control methods, and in particular, to devices and methods that enable data to be transmitted with a shorter waiting time. Wireless communication control devices, and Wireless communication control methods.

Background Art

[0002] In a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) system, as a technique for improving transmission efficiency by using a plurality of different frequency bands instead of continuous frequency channels, a multi-link operation technique has been proposed. Even when continuous frequency channels are not available, high-speed communication can be performed by mutually using other frequency bands.

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a wireless device capable of simultaneously transmitting a plurality of frames to the same destination using a plurality of frequency channels. When the availability of the first frequency channel continues for a first period, the frames in the buffer are output to the first transmission means, and when the availability of the second frequency channel continues for a second period, the frames in the buffer are output to the second transmission means, and its control technique.

[0004] Also, in a wireless LAN system, as a method for controlling data transmission, EDCA (Enhanced Distributed Channel Access) control is adopted, and a configuration in which data to be preferentially transmitted for each access category is transmitted with a short transmission waiting time has been generally used.

[0005] According to this EDCA control, a shorter transmission waiting time AIFS (Arbitration Inter Frame Spacing) is allocated to data in an access category that requires a short latency, and the random backoff waiting time is also selected from within a short range.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0006]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0007] By the way, in the conventional EDCA control, since voice data has been the highest-priority data, it has not been possible to give priority to data that should originally be prioritized, and there has been a demand for a technology that enables data transmission with a short waiting time.

[0008] This technology has been made in view of such a situation, and enables data to be transmitted with a shorter waiting time.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0009] A communication device according to one aspect of this technology is a communication device including a control unit that sets information regarding the transmission priority on a plurality of links for each access category of data when transmitting data using a plurality of links corresponding to a predetermined frequency band.

[0010] A communication method according to one aspect of this technology is a communication method in which, when a communication device transmits data using a plurality of links corresponding to a predetermined frequency band, information regarding the transmission priority on a plurality of links is set for each access category of data.

[0011] In a communication device and a communication method according to one aspect of this technology, when transmitting data using a plurality of links corresponding to a predetermined frequency band, information regarding the transmission priority on a plurality of links is set for each access category of data.

[0012] Note that the communication device according to one aspect of this technology may be an independent device or an internal block constituting one device.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0013]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

Figure 17

Figure 18

Figure 19

Figure 20

Figure 21

Figure 22

Figure 23

Figure 24

Figure 25

Figure 26

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0014] <1. Embodiments of this Technology>

[0015] In conventional wireless LAN systems, a channel aggregation technology that bundles multiple channels (bandwidths) for transmission has been applied. In the IEEE802.11n standard, a technology for a communication method that bundles two channels to utilize a 40MHz bandwidth has been standardized.

[0016] Also, in the IEEE802.11ac standard, technologies for communication methods that bundle four channels to utilize an 80MHz bandwidth and that bundle eight channels to utilize a 160MHz bandwidth have been standardized.

[0017] In these communication methods, there is a problem that they cannot be used unless continuous frequency channels can be acquired. In a space where a large number of wireless LAN systems exist, it has been difficult to perform these channel aggregations.

[0018] In recent years, as a technology for improving transmission efficiency by using a plurality of different frequency bands instead of continuous frequency channels, a multi-link operation technology has been proposed. Even when continuous frequency channels are not available, high-speed communication can be performed by mutually using other frequency bands.

[0019] In the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1 described above, in a wireless device capable of simultaneously transmitting a plurality of frames to the same destination using a plurality of frequency channels, when the availability of the first frequency channel continues for the first period, the frames in the buffer are output to the first transmission means, and when the availability of the second frequency channel continues for the second period, the frames in the buffer are output to the second transmission means, and the control technology thereof is disclosed.

[0020] Furthermore, in a wireless LAN system, as a data transmission control method, EDCA control is adopted, and a configuration in which data to be preferentially transmitted for each access category (AC) is transmitted with a short transmission waiting time has been generally used.

[0021] According to this EDCA control, for data in access categories that require short latency, such as voice data, a shorter transmission waiting time AIFS is allocated, and the random backoff waiting time is also selected from within a short range.

[0022] The central application at the time when these EDCA controls were standardized was a technology devised for the purpose of enabling voice of about several tens of kbps to be communicated without delay.

[0023] In recent years, in a wireless LAN system, even when transmitting a large amount of video data for real-time applications, it is required to fairly utilize the wireless transmission path with other wireless communication devices as defined by existing wireless communication protocols.

[0024] In particular, the IEEE802.11 standard discloses a technique for setting a transmission waiting time based on the access category (AC) of the data to be transmitted by EDCA control.

[0025] Therefore, as a next-generation technology of IEEE802.11, a technique is disclosed in which data requiring low latency is stored in a dedicated transmission buffer and transmitted preferentially over other data.

[0026] According to the technique disclosed in IEEE 802.11-19 / 1851r1, when transmitting using a plurality of links, a Link Load is defined for each link, and on a link with a high Link Load, only data with low latency is transmitted, while on a link with a low Link Load, both data with low latency and other data are transmitted.

[0027] By the way, in the case of multi-link operation, since the frequency bands used are different, channel access control is performed separately, and there is a problem that it becomes difficult for the timing at which transmission can be performed simultaneously on both links (channels) to arrive.

[0028] In addition, when transmitting a large amount of video data that requires a short latency, there was a problem of waiting in a transmission wait state until the time when this multi-link operation becomes possible.

[0029] In this case, if other transmissions are started on the link (channel) that becomes available first until both links (channels) become available, there has been a problem that it is very difficult to transmit simultaneously on both links (channels).

[0030] In particular, when a backoff counter is set for each frequency band and a transmission wait time is set, there has been a case where transmission has become possible on one link (channel), but the other link (channel) is in a state where it cannot transmit.

[0031] This is a configuration in which, when using the method disclosed in Patent Document 1 described above, frames are transmitted when the waiting times of different channels expire in the first single link and the second single link, and there has been a problem that the transmission wait times on both links are different.

[0032] That is, when the second single link is arranged adjacent to the first single link during transmission on the first single link, the signal transmitted on the first single link inhibits the signal detection of the second single link, and there has been a problem that the existing access control procedure cannot be applied.

[0033] On the other hand, in the existing EDCA control, by setting a predetermined transmission opportunity (TXOP), after transmitting data in an access category with a high priority, a random backoff transmission wait time is provided again for a predetermined AIFS, and if that time has not elapsed, the data in that access category cannot be transmitted.

[0034] In addition, in the case of multi-link operation, when EDCA control is applied to each, after transmitting data in an existing access category with a high priority, a random backoff is set again to a predetermined AIFS, and if that time has not elapsed, there has been a continuing problem that data in that access category cannot be transmitted.

[0035] In the existing EDCA control, since voice data was given the highest priority, currently, it is transmitted preferentially over video data, which is the mainstream of applications, and command data of a game device controller. When voice data of another communication device is transmitted, it is difficult to transmit video data or command data, and the video may be interrupted or the response may be delayed, which has affected the user's video viewing and operation of the game device.

[0036] In the technology of storing these data requiring low latency in a dedicated transmission buffer and transmitting them preferentially over other data, there has been a problem that only the data stored in the transmission buffer is set with a short transmission waiting time, so that the transmission opportunity for data other than those data does not come.

[0037] In addition, data that is not stored in the transmission buffer is not transmitted preferentially. When receiving data used in a real-time application, there has been a problem that the data cannot be received at a desired timing unless it is transmitted preferentially by the transmitting communication device.

[0038] In the technology disclosed in the above-mentioned IEEE 802.11-19 / 1851r1, since Link Load is defined for each link, there has remained a problem that only data with low latency is transmitted on a link with a high Link Load, and other data cannot be transmitted.

[0039] Therefore, in the present technology, a configuration is proposed in which information regarding the priority of transmission via a multi-link and information regarding the priority of transmission via a single link are set for each data access category, so as to solve the above-described problems.

[0040] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present technology will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0041] (Configuration of Network) FIG. 1 shows an example of the configuration of a wireless communication network by a wireless communication system to which the present technology is applied. Here, as an example of the wireless communication system, the configuration of a wireless LAN system is shown.

[0042] In FIG. 1, communication devices 10 constituting the wireless LAN system 1-1 are shown as white circles in the figure. With respect to the access point AP10, in a state where the communication terminal STA10-1 and the communication terminal STA10-2 are connected, the fact that each communication device 10 can communicate is indicated by solid arrows A1 and A2 in the figure.

[0043] In the vicinity of this wireless LAN system 1-1, an access point AP20 and a communication terminal STA20 shown as shaded circles in the figure constitute another wireless LAN system 1-2, and the fact that each communication device 20 can communicate is indicated by a solid arrow B1 in the figure.

[0044] Also, in the vicinity of the wireless LAN system 1-1, an access point AP30 and a communication terminal STA30 shown as shaded circles in the figure constitute yet another wireless LAN system 1-3, and the fact that each communication device 30 can communicate is indicated by a solid arrow D1 in the figure.

[0045] The access point AP10 exists at a position where it can receive signals from the access point AP20 and the communication terminal STA20, and the access point AP30 and the communication terminal STA30, which are represented by broken arrows C2, C3 and arrows E2, E3 in the figure.

[0046] The communication terminal STA10-1 exists at a position where it can receive signals from the access point AP20 and the access point AP30, which is represented by the dashed arrows C1 and E1 in the figure. Also, the communication terminal STA10-2 exists at a position where it can receive signals from the communication terminal STA20 and the communication terminal STA30, which is represented by the dashed arrows C4 and E4 in the figure.

[0047] In this way, the access point AP10, the communication terminal STA10-1, and the communication terminal STA10-2 that constitute the wireless LAN system 1-1 need to perform fair access with these communication devices due to the existence of the wireless LAN system 1-2 and the wireless LAN system 1-3.

[0048] Hereinafter, a communication device that transmits data will be referred to as a transmitting-side communication device, and a communication device that receives data will be referred to as a receiving-side communication device for explanation. For example, in the wireless LAN system 1-1, data transmitted from a transmitting-side communication device 10Tx such as the access point AP10 is received by a receiving-side communication device 10Rx such as the communication terminal STA10-1.

[0049] (Example of frequency band and channel allocation) FIG. 2 shows an example of the frequency band and frequency channel allocation used in a wireless communication system to which the present technology is applied.

[0050] In the 2.4 GHz band, when applied to a wireless signal of the OFDM (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing) method with a 20 MHz bandwidth according to the IEEE802.11g standard, frequencies for at least two channels are set (the "2.4 GHz band" in the uppermost row (the first row) of FIG. 2).

[0051] In the 5 GHz band, a plurality of frequency channels can be secured for application to a wireless signal of the OFDM method with a 20 MHz bandwidth for standards such as IEEE802.11a (the "5 GHz band A, B, C" in the first and second rows of FIG. 2).

[0052] Here, the operation in the 5 GHz band is subject to conditions in the legal systems of various countries regarding the available frequency bands, transmission power, and transmission availability.

[0053] In the first and second lines of FIG. 2, channel numbers such as 32, 36, 40, ··· are assigned. In Japan, the use of 8 channels from channel 36 to 64 and 11 channels from channel 100 to 140 is possible.

[0054] In other countries and regions except Japan, the use of channel 32, channel 68, channel 96, and channel 144 is also possible. Furthermore, in the frequency band above that, the use from channel 149 to channel 173 is possible.

[0055] Currently, the 6 GHz band is being standardized as an available frequency band (the "6 GHz bands A, B, C, D" in the third and fourth lines of FIG. 2). As a method of using this 6 GHz band in the United States, if frequency channels with a bandwidth of 20 GHz are arranged efficiently, 25 channels can be arranged in the Unii-5 band of 6 GHz band A, 5 channels in the Unii-6 band of 6 GHz band B, 17 channels in the Unii-7 band of 6 GHz band C, and 12 channels in the Unii-8 band of 6 GHz band D.

[0056] FIG. 3 shows a configuration in which frequency channels with a predetermined bandwidth are divided and used by combining bands that can be freely used while avoiding the use of bands subject to restrictions.

[0057] In FIG. 3, as bands that can be freely used, 4 channels in the Unii-6 band of 6 GHz band B are used to secure a bandwidth of 80 MHz as the first link (Link #1), and 12 channels in the Unii-8 band of 6 GHz band D are used to secure a bandwidth of 240 MHz as the second link (Link #2). An example of using a total bandwidth of 320 MHz with 16 channels by combining these links with multiple bandwidths is shown.

[0058] In the case of such a usage configuration of frequency channels, in the first link (Link #1) and the second link (Link #2), different systems may be operating in the vicinity, and access control is implemented individually for each.

[0059] For example, in FIG. 1, when the wireless LAN system 1-1 communicates using a plurality of links (multi-links) of the first link and the second link, when the wireless LAN system 1-2 is using the first link, or when the wireless LAN system 1-3 is using the second link, fair access control must be implemented separately for each of these links.

[0060] FIG. 4 schematically shows a configuration for buffering data for each access category (AC).

[0061] As shown in FIG. 4, in the communication device 10, in order to perform predetermined EDCA control defined in the IEEE802.11 system, a transmission buffer 103 is configured for each access category. By classifying using this access category, data is stored in the corresponding buffer sequentially according to the type of data, and transmission control is implemented according to the priority of the data.

[0062] Here, in EDCA control, data is classified into four access categories: AC_VO (Voice), AC_VI (Video), AC_BE (Best effort), and AC_BG (Background).

[0063] AC_VO represents a type corresponding to data that requires low latency and bandwidth guarantee such as voice data. AC_VI represents a type corresponding to data that requires bandwidth guarantee such as video data. AC_BE represents a type corresponding to normal data (best effort data). AC_BG represents a type corresponding to large-capacity data (background data) that is not restricted by time.

[0064] In FIG. 4, in the transmission buffer 103, voice data is stored in the AC_VO buffer 103-1 corresponding to the access category (AC_VO), video data is stored in the AC_VI buffer 103-2 corresponding to the access category (AC_VI), best effort data is stored in the AC_BE buffer 103-3 corresponding to the access category (AC_BE), and background data is stored in the AC_BG buffer 103-4 corresponding to the access category (AC_BG).

[0065] And in the communication device 10, data is configured to be transmitted when the specified transmission waiting time and backoff time have elapsed respectively, and the priority order is in the order of AC_VO, AC_VI, AC_BE, AC_BG. The output of data from the transmission buffer 103 is configured to be able to switch and output the first link (Link #1) and the second link (Link #2) respectively.

[0066] FIG. 5 shows an example of transmission when data is preferentially transmitted for each predetermined access category (AC).

[0067] The upper part of FIG. 5 shows the data flow in the first link (Link #1), and the lower part of FIG. 5 shows the data flow in the second link (Link #2). In FIG. 5, the direction of time is the direction from left to right in the figure.

[0068] In FIG. 5, when data transmission is performed using the first link and the second link respectively, data is sequentially transmitted in the order of AC_VO, AC_VI, AC_BE, AC_BG according to the priority order of the access categories.

[0069] In addition, in each link, since a BSS (Basic Service Set) network of another wireless LAN system or a network in an unlicensed band of another wireless communication system (e.g., a 5th generation wireless communication system (5G)) is operating, a period during which transmission is not possible (NAV: Network Allocation Vector) may be set due to the transmission of these other systems.

[0070] As a result, in the first link, as shown by the squares labeled AC_VO, AC_VI, AC_BE, and AC_BG in the figure, after a predetermined short waiting time has elapsed, voice data from the AC_VO buffer 103-1, video data from the AC_VI buffer 103-2, best effort data from the AC_BE buffer 103-3, and background data from the AC_BG buffer 103-4 are transmitted in order.

[0071] Similarly, in the second link, as shown by the squares labeled AC_VO, AC_VI, AC_BE, and AC_BG in the figure, after a predetermined short waiting time has elapsed, voice data, video data, best effort data, and background data are transmitted in order.

[0072] In such a configuration, when transmitting multiple links simultaneously, there was a problem that it was difficult to detect the received signal in the second link when transmission was being performed in the first link.

[0073] Figure 6 schematically shows a configuration in which a transmission buffer for data with low latency requirements is provided separately.

[0074] In Figure 6, an example of configuring a transmission buffer for preferentially transmitting voice data and video data, which are data with low latency requirements, for AC_VO and AC_VI among the access categories (AC) is shown. That is, a configuration is adopted in which the data of AC_VO and AC_VI among the four access categories can be preferentially transmitted.

[0075] In AC_VO, in accordance with a predetermined access control procedure, when the shortest transmission waiting time has elapsed, first, the audio data stored in the A_VO buffer 103-1A is transmitted, and then, the audio data stored in the VO buffer 103-1B is transmitted.

[0076] In AC_VI, in accordance with a predetermined access control procedure, when the next shortest transmission waiting time has elapsed, first, the video data stored in the A_VI buffer 103-2A is transmitted, and then, the video data stored in the VI buffer 103-2B is transmitted.

[0077] After that, in AC_BE, in accordance with a predetermined access control procedure, when a predetermined transmission waiting time has elapsed, the best effort data stored in the AC_BE buffer 103-3 is transmitted. Finally, in AC_BG, in accordance with a predetermined access control procedure, when the longest transmission waiting time has elapsed, the background data stored in the AC_BG buffer 103-4 is transmitted.

[0078] Figure 7 shows an example of transmission when data is preferentially transmitted for each predetermined access category (AC). In Figure 7, similar to Figure 5, the upper row shows the data flow in the first link (Link #1), and the lower row shows the data flow in the second link (Link #2).

[0079] In Figure 7, in the first link, the data is transmitted in accordance with the priority order of the existing access categories. The audio data (A_VO) of AC_A_VO is transmitted with the highest priority, then the audio data (VO) of AC_VO, and then the video data (A_VI) of AC_A_VI is transmitted, and then the video data (VI) of AC_VI is transmitted. Further, the best effort data of AC_BE is transmitted, and then the background data of AC_BG is sequentially transmitted.

[0080] On the other hand, in the second link, the voice data (A_VO) of AC_A_VO, the voice data (VO) of AC_VO, and the video data (A_VI) of AC_A_VI are preferentially transmitted. In this case, the video data (A_VI) that requires a short latency is configured to be transmitted after the voice data (A_VO) and the voice data (VO), and there have been cases where it is difficult to obtain a transmission opportunity.

[0081] (Example of the configuration of the communication device) FIG. 8 shows an example of the configuration of a communication device to which the present technology is applied.

[0082] The communication device 10 shown in FIG. 8 is configured as an access point AP10 or a communication terminal STA10 in the wireless LAN system 1-1 (FIG. 1), that is, a transmission-side communication device 10Tx or a reception-side communication device 10Rx.

[0083] In FIG. 8, the communication device 10 includes a network connection module 11, an information input module 12, a device control module 13, an information output module 14, and a wireless communication module 15.

[0084] The network connection module 11 is composed of, for example, a circuit having a function for connecting to the Internet network via a service provider from an optical fiber network or other communication lines as the access point AP10, its peripheral circuits, a microcontroller, a semiconductor memory, and the like.

[0085] The network connection module 11 performs various processes related to Internet connection according to the control from the device control module 13. For example, when the communication device 10 operates as the access point AP10, the network connection module 11 is configured such that functions such as a communication modem for connecting to the Internet network are implemented.

[0086] The information input module 12 is composed of, for example, input devices such as push buttons, keyboards, touch panels, etc. The information input module 12 has a function of inputting instruction information corresponding to an instruction from the user to the device control module 13.

[0087] The device control module 13 is composed of, for example, a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a semiconductor memory, etc. The device control module 13 controls each part (module) in order to operate the communication device 10 as an access point AP10 or a communication terminal STA10.

[0088] The device control module 13 performs various processes on the information supplied from the network connection module 11, the information input module 12, or the wireless communication module 15. Also, the device control module 13 supplies the information obtained as a result of its own process to the network connection module 11, the information output module 14, or the wireless communication module 15.

[0089] For example, when transmitting data, the device control module 13 supplies the transmission data passed from an application in the upper layer of the protocol or the like to the wireless communication module 15, and when receiving data, passes the received data supplied from the wireless communication module 15 to an application in the upper layer of the protocol or the like.

[0090] The information output module 14 is composed of, for example, output devices including display elements such as liquid crystal displays, organic EL displays, LED (Light Emitting Diode) displays, and speakers that output sounds and music.

[0091] The information output module 14 has a function of displaying necessary information to the user based on the information supplied from the device control module 13. Here, the information processed by the information output module 14 includes, for example, the operating state of the communication device 10 and information obtained via the Internet.

[0092] The wireless communication module 15 is composed of, for example, a wireless chip, peripheral circuits, a microcontroller, a semiconductor memory, etc. The wireless communication module 15 performs various processes related to wireless communication according to the control from the device control module 13. The details of the configuration of the wireless communication module 15 will be described later with reference to FIG. 9.

[0093] Here, a wireless communication module equipped with a wireless communication chip, peripheral circuits, etc. is taken as an example for explanation. However, the present technology is not limited to wireless communication modules and can be applied to, for example, wireless communication chips and wireless communication LSIs. Furthermore, in the wireless communication module, whether to include an antenna is optional.

[0094] Also, in the communication device 10 of FIG. 8, the device control module 13 and the wireless communication module 15 are essential components, but whether to include the network connection module 11, the information input module 12, and the information output module 14, which are excluded from them, as components is optional.

[0095] That is, for each communication device 10 operating as the access point AP10 or the communication terminal STA10, it can be configured with only the necessary modules, and unnecessary parts can be simplified or not incorporated.

[0096] More specifically, for example, the network connection module 11 can be incorporated only into the access point AP10, and the information input module 12 and the information output module 14 can be incorporated only into the communication terminal STA10.

[0097] (Example of the configuration of the wireless communication module) FIG. 9 shows an example of the configuration of the wireless communication module 15 in FIG. 8.

[0098] The wireless communication module 15 is configured to include an interface 101 that is connected to other modules and exchanges various types of information and data with the outside, a category determination unit 102 that determines the attribute of the transmission data from the access category, and a transmission buffer 103 that temporarily stores the transmission data for each access category.

[0099] The transmission buffer 103 is composed of an AC_VO buffer 103-1 that stores voice data, an AC_VI buffer 103-2 that stores video data, an AC_BE buffer 103-3 that stores best effort data, and an AC_BG buffer 103-4 that stores background data.

[0100] This configuration includes a single / multi-link operation control unit 104 that controls the single-link and multi-link operations, which are characteristic functions of the present technology, a dequeue control unit 105 that dequeues the order of the transmission data, a timing control unit 106 that controls the transmission timing, a frame construction unit 107 that constructs the data frame to be transmitted, an access control unit 108 that controls the transmission and reception of data, and transmission processing units 109-1 and 109-2 that perform the transmission operations on each link.

[0101] The transmission processing unit 109-1 performs the transmission operation related to the first link (Link #1). The transmission processing unit 109-2 performs the transmission operation related to the second link (Link #2). In addition, an antenna control unit 110 is provided to transmit the transmission signal from an antenna (not shown) and to control the reception of the signal transmitted from another communication device via the antenna. Note that a configuration may be adopted in which the antenna control unit 110 is not included in the wireless communication module 15.

[0102] On the other hand, the wireless communication module 15 is configured to include reception processing units 111-1 and 111-2 that perform the reception operation by using the signal received by the antenna on each link as a predetermined signal. The reception processing unit 111-1 performs the reception operation related to the first link (Link #1). The reception processing unit 111-2 performs the reception operation related to the second link (Link #2).

[0103] Furthermore, it includes a frame extraction unit 112 that extracts a predetermined data frame from the received signal, a data analysis unit 113 that analyzes the data included in the received frame, and a reception buffer 114 that temporarily stores the received data. Further, it includes an output data construction unit 115 that constructs data in the output format for delivery to a predetermined application, and finally, data is passed to the application of the connected device via the interface 101.

[0104] Note that in FIG. 9, the arrows between the blocks represent the flow and control of data (signals), and each block operates in cooperation with other blocks connected by arrows to realize its own function.

[0105] That is, for example, the single / multi-link operation control unit 104, as a characteristic function of this technology, operates in cooperation with each of the interface 101, the dequeue control unit 105, the timing control unit 106, the data analysis unit 113, and the reception buffer 114 to realize the function of controlling the operations of the single link and the multi-link.

[0106] Also, for example, the access control unit 108, as a characteristic function of this technology, operates in cooperation with each of the timing control unit 106, the transmission processing units 109-1, 109-2, the antenna control unit 110, and the reception processing units 111-1, 111-2 to realize the function of controlling the transmission and reception of data according to the operations of the single link and the multi-link.

[0107] In the wireless communication module 15 configured as described above, in particular, when the single / multi-link operation control unit 104 controls the operations of each unit, for example, the following processing is performed.

[0108] That is, in the wireless communication module 15 of the communication device 10 (the transmission-side communication device 10Tx or the reception-side communication device 10Rx), when transmitting data using a plurality of links (for example, Link #1, Link #2) corresponding to a predetermined frequency band (when performing transmission in multi-link) by the single multi-link operation control unit 104 or the like, information regarding the transmission priority in a plurality of links (multi-link) is set for each data access category (for example, AC_VO, AC_VI, AC_BE, AC_BG) (for example, information indicating whether transmission is possible).

[0109] Also, in this wireless communication module 15, information regarding the transmission priority in one link (single link) is set for each access category (for example, AC_VO, AC_VI, AC_BE, AC_BG) by the single multi-link operation control unit 104 or the like (for example, information indicating whether transmission is possible).

[0110] (Configuration of the entity) FIG. 10 shows the configuration of an entity for transmitting and receiving signals using a plurality of links as an entity to which this technology is applied.

[0111] In FIG. 10, when managing data transmission and reception in a plurality of links including the first link (Link #1) and the second link (Link #2), it schematically shows the configuration that is the main body of the processing.

[0112] In FIG. 10, a station management entity for each link exists in the PHY layer and its management entity, and the MAC sublayer and its management entity in each link, respectively. And it shows that by connecting these with a multi-link management entity, it is possible to control data transmission and reception in a single link and data transmission and reception in a multi-link.

[0113] With this configuration, in addition to the current state where the first link and the second link operate as separate links, it is possible to implement control when operating as a multi-link.

[0114] (First example) FIG. 11 shows a first example of buffer control in a single link and a multi-link according to the present technology.

[0115] As shown in FIG. 11, the transmission buffer 103 has a buffer configuration for access categories (AC_VO, AC_VI, AC_BE, AC_BG), and among the plurality of links, when a transmission path becomes available in either one of the single links, it has a "Single-Link Available" part that performs dequeue control, and when a transmission path becomes available in both multi-links, it has a "Multi-Link Available" part that performs dequeue control.

[0116] That is, in the configuration of FIG. 11, it is schematically shown that from the transmission buffer of each access category, the "Single-Link Available" part and the "Multi-Link Available" part are each in a virtual output configuration. When performing transmission control in the priority order of existing access categories, all output configurations are fairly connected for both single links and multi-links.

[0117] Here, for example, when data with a latency requirement shorter than a predetermined period is stored in the access category (AC_VI), or when an application that uses such data is started, only the single link and only the access category (AC_VI) are enabled, and other access categories (AC_VO, AC_BE, AC_BG) are set to be disabled.

[0118] That is, as shown by the solid line in the figure, in the multi-link, data of all access categories is sent, but in the single link, only the video data of AC_VI is sent.

[0119] Furthermore, as shown by the dashed lines in the figure, in the single link, a configuration is shown where a state in which data of access categories other than AC_VI (AC_VO, AC_BE, AC_BG) is not transmitted is virtually created and data output is controlled.

[0120] FIG. 12 shows a first example of data output for each access category according to the present technology.

[0121] In FIG. 12, when the transmission control in FIG. 11 described above is performed, a case is shown where video data of the access category (AC_VI) is transmitted via a single link, and data of other access categories is controlled to refrain from transmission via the single link.

[0122] Also in FIG. 12, similar to the above case, the upper row shows the data flow in the first link (Link #1), and the lower row shows the data flow in the second link (Link #2).

[0123] That is, when only the first link (Link #1) is available during the time when the second link (Link #2) is being used by another system, transmission control for transmitting the video data of AC_VI is performed. Also shown is an example where, when the first link (Link #1) and the second link (Link #2) are available, transmission control is performed to perform transmission according to the priorities of existing access categories (AC_VO, AC_VI, AC_BE, AC_BG).

[0124] Furthermore, when only the second link (Link #2) is available during the time when the first link (Link #1) is being used by another system, it shows how the video data of AC_VI is also transmitted here. As a result, the configuration is such that the video data of AC_VI for which the transmission setting in the single link is made is transmitted more frequently than the data of other access categories.

[0125] (Second example) Figure 13 shows a second example of buffer control in single-link and multi-link according to the present technology.

[0126] In the configuration of Figure 13, similar to the configuration of Figure 11, from the buffers of each access category in the transmission buffer 103, the "Single-Link Available" part and the "Multi-Link Available" part are schematically shown to be in a virtual output configuration respectively.

[0127] Here, for example, when data with a latency requirement shorter than a predetermined period is stored in the access category (AC_BE), or when an application that uses such data is launched, in the multi-link, only the access category (AC_BE) is enabled, and the other access categories (AC_VO, AC_VI, AC_BG) are set to be disabled.

[0128] That is, as shown by the solid line in the figure, in the single-link, data of all access categories is sent, but in the multi-link, only the best-effort data of AC_BE is sent.

[0129] Furthermore, as shown by the dashed line in the figure, in the multi-link, a configuration is shown in which a state where data of access categories (AC_VO, AC_VI, AC_BG) other than AC_BE is not sent is virtually created to control data output.

[0130] Figure 14 shows a second example of data output for each access category according to the present technology.

[0131] In Figure 14, when the transmission control in Figure 13 described above is implemented, a case is shown where the best-effort data of the access category (AC_BE) is preferentially transmitted in the multi-link, and data of other access categories is transmitted in the multi-link when that data does not exist.

[0132] Also in FIG. 14, similar to the above case, the upper part shows the data flow in the first link (Link #1), and the lower part shows the data flow in the second link (Link #2).

[0133] That is, when the second link (Link #2) is being used by another system and only the first link (Link #1) is available, the voice data of AC_VO is transmitted. When the multi-link of the first link (Link #1) and the second link (Link #2) is available, the best-effort data of AC_BE is preferentially transmitted. And when the transmission of the best-effort data of AC_BE is completed, an example is shown in which the data of AC_VO or AC_VI is also transmitted via the multi-link according to the priority of the existing access category.

[0134] Furthermore, when the first link (Link #1) is being used by another system and only the second link (Link #2) is available, it shows the state where the best-effort data of AC_BE is also transmitted here. As a result, the best-effort data of AC_BE with the transmission setting in the multi-link is transmitted more frequently than the data of other access categories.

[0135] (Example of sequence) FIG. 15 shows the sequence of transmission buffer control by the transmitting application.

[0136] In FIG. 15, it is assumed that the transmitting application (Transmit Application) and the transmitting communication device (Transmit Device) 10Tx deliver video data in real time to the receiving communication device (Receive Device) 10Rx and the receiving application (Receive Application).

[0137] Here, when the transmitting-side communication device 10Tx operates as, for example, an access point AP, it is assumed that a single multi-link operation information element (SMLO IE) to which this technology is applied is added to a predetermined beacon signal (S11).

[0138] First, when an application for delivering real-time video data is launched in the transmitting-side application, parameter information such as latency information, transmission information volume, and throughput related to the real-time data transmission is notified (S12).

[0139] In the transmitting-side communication device 10Tx, when it is grasped from this parameter information that real-time video data is to be transmitted, it refers to the surrounding network environment and determines whether to change the data transmission settings between single-link operation and multi-link operation as necessary.

[0140] Here, when it is assumed that there are other systems in the surroundings and the timing of single-link operation is frequent, for real-time video data, the video data of the access category (AC_VI) is set to be preferentially transmitted in single-link operation, and the setting is changed in the single multi-link operation information element (SMLO IE) and added to the beacon signal, and the receiving-side communication device 10Rx is notified (S13).

[0141] Then, in the transmitting-side communication device 10Tx, when video data is sent from the transmitting-side application, the video data is stored in the AC_VI buffer 103-2 and is preferentially transmitted in single-link compared to data of other access categories (S14, S15). As a result, in the receiving-side communication device 10Rx, this video data can be received and real-time video data can be delivered to the receiving-side application (S16).

[0142] Furthermore, when the application that distributes the real-time video data ends in the transmitting-side application, a notification to that effect is sent (S17). In the transmitting-side communication device 10Tx, it is determined that there is no need to preferentially transmit data in the access category (AC_VO), and a determination is made to restore the settings so that all data is transmitted based on the priority order of the existing access categories. Then, in the transmitting-side communication device 10Tx, the single multi-link operation information element (SMLO IE) is restored to its initial state and configured to send a notification by means of a beacon signal (S18).

[0143] Figure 16 shows the sequence of transmission buffer control by the receiving-side application.

[0144] In Figure 16, a sequence is assumed in which a transmitting-side application (Transmit Application) and a transmitting-side communication device (Transmit Device) 10Tx deliver real-time video data to a receiving-side communication device (Receive Device) 10Rx and a receiving-side application (Receive Application).

[0145] Here, when the transmitting-side communication device 10Tx operates as, for example, an access point AP, it is assumed that a single multi-link operation information element (SMLO IE) to which this technology is applied is added to a predetermined beacon signal (S31).

[0146] First, when an application that distributes real-time video data is started in the receiving-side application, in the receiving-side communication device 10Rx, parameter information such as latency information, transmission information volume, and throughput related to the real-time data transmission is acquired and generated as a request frame (S32). This request frame (SMLO Request) is notified to the transmitting-side communication device 10Tx and the transmitting-side application that are the data sources (S33, S34).

[0147] When the transmitting communication device 10Tx receives a request frame and determines from this parameter information that real-time video data is to be transmitted, it refers to the surrounding network environment and determines whether to change the data transmission settings between single-link operation and multi-link operation as necessary. If it is determined that this setting is possible, a grant frame (SMLO Grant) is transmitted towards the receiving communication device 10Rx (S35).

[0148] Furthermore, in the transmitting communication device 10Tx, for real-time video data, the data of access category (AC_VI) is set to be preferentially transmitted in single-link operation, and this setting is changed in the single / multi-link operation information element (SMLO IE) and added to the beacon signal to notify the receiving communication device 10Rx (S36).

[0149] When video data is sent from the transmitting application in the transmitting communication device 10Tx, the video data is stored in the AC_VI buffer 103-2 and is preferentially transmitted via single-link over data of other access categories (S37, S38). As a result, the receiving communication device 10Rx can receive this video data and deliver real-time video data to the receiving application (S39).

[0150] Furthermore, when the application that distributes the real-time video data in the receiving application ends, this is notified (S40). Then, the receiving communication device 10Rx is configured to generate and transmit a release frame (SMLO Release) towards the transmitting communication device 10Tx in response to the notification from the receiving application (S41).

[0151] When the release frame is notified in the transmission - side communication device 10Tx, it is determined that there is no need to preferentially transmit data in the access category (AC_VI), and all data is transmitted based on the priority order of the existing access category (fairly). Therefore, a process for restoring the setting is performed. Then, in the transmission - side communication device 10Tx, the single - multi - link operation information element (SMLO IE) is returned to the initial state and is configured to be notified by the beacon signal (S42, S43).

[0152] Figure 17 shows the control sequence for two - way transmission in the receiving - side application.

[0153] In Figure 17, when the receiving - side application is set to receive real - time video data, a configuration is shown in which the receiving - side also performs a setting change for transmitting command data, etc., that requires transmission with a latency shorter than a predetermined period.

[0154] Note that in the transmission - side communication device 10Tx, the video data in the access category (AC_VI) is set to be preferentially transmitted in single - link operation, and a beacon signal with the single - multi - link operation information element (SMLO IE) in which this setting is described is notified to the receiving - side communication device 10Rx (S51). As a result, in the transmission - side communication device 10Tx, it becomes possible to preferentially transmit video data from the transmission - side application over data in other access categories in single - link (S52 to S54).

[0155] Here, when an application that communicates command data of a game device or the like is launched in the receiving-side application, in the receiving-side communication device 10Rx, parameter information such as latency information, transmission information volume, and throughput is acquired from the allowable delay information related to the transmission of the command data and is generated as a request frame (S55). This request frame (SMLO Request) is notified to the transmission-side communication device 10Tx and the transmission-side application that are the data sources (S56, S57).

[0156] In the transmission-side communication device 10Tx, when a request frame is received, when it is grasped that real-time command data is transmitted from these parameter information, the surrounding network environment is referred to, and it is determined whether to change the setting of data transmission in single-link operation and multi-link operation as necessary. Then, when it is determined that this setting is possible, a grant frame (SMLO Grant) is transmitted toward the receiving-side communication device 10Rx (S58).

[0157] Here, when it is assumed that there is no other system around and the timing of multi-link operation is frequent, in the transmission-side communication device 10Tx, for the transmission of real-time command data, the best-effort data of the access category (AC_BE) is set to be preferentially transmitted in multi-link operation, and the setting is changed in the single / multi-link operation information element (SMLO IE) and added to the beacon signal and notified to the receiving-side communication device 10Rx (S59).

[0158] In the transmitting-side communication device 10Tx, when video data is sent from the transmitting-side application, the video data is stored in the AC_VI buffer 103-2 and transmitted preferentially via a single link over data in other access categories (S60, S61). As a result, in the receiving-side communication device 10Rx, this video data can be received and delivered to the receiving-side application as real-time video data (S62). In this way, transmission is enabled over multiple links or one link in an access category with specific data, and control is performed so that fair transmission occurs in other access categories.

[0159] On the other hand, in the receiving-side communication device 10Rx, when command data is sent from the receiving-side application, the command data is stored in the AC_BE buffer 103-3 as best-effort data and transmitted preferentially via a multi-link over data in other access categories (S63, S64). As a result, in the receiving-side communication device 10Rx, while receiving real-time video data, the command data can be preferentially transmitted with a short response time.

[0160] In the transmitting-side communication device 10Tx, when command data is received, processing corresponding to the command data is performed. For example, in the transmitting-side communication device 10Tx, processing for transmitting video data corresponding to the command data is implemented (S65 to S68). Note that the processing corresponding to the command data is implemented each time command data is sent from the receiving-side application (S69 to S71).

[0161] Furthermore, when an application that communicates commands for a game device or the like ends in the receiving-side application, this is notified to the receiving-side communication device 10Rx, and a release frame (SMLO Release) is generated and transmitted from the receiving-side communication device 10Rx to the transmitting-side communication device 10Tx (S72, S73).

[0162] Upon receiving this release frame at the transmitting - side communication device 10Tx, it is determined that there is no longer a need to preferentially transmit data in the access category (AC_BE) over the multi - link, and a process for releasing only this setting is performed.

[0163] Then, at the transmitting - side communication device 10Tx, for the single - multi - link operation information element (SMLO IE), while leaving the setting that video data in the single - link (AC_VI) can be preferentially transmitted, it is configured to return to the initial state in the multi - link and notify via a beacon signal that all data is transmitted based on the normal priority (existing priority) (S74, S75). As a result, at the transmitting - side communication device 10Tx, it becomes possible to preferentially transmit video data from the transmitting - side application over data in other access categories in the single - link (S76 to S78).

[0164] (Configuration of Information Element) FIG. 18 shows an example of the configuration of a single - multi - link operation information element (SMLO IE: Single / Multi Link Operation Information Element) to which this technology is applied.

[0165] This information element is configured such that a communication device 10 such as an access point AP or a communication terminal STA can be set to preferentially transmit data specified by the access category under the existing EDCA control via a single - link or a multi - link.

[0166] This information element is included in the beacon signal transmitted by the access point AP and notified. The communication terminal STA within the wireless communication network can perform control to transmit data in the access category used within the wireless communication network according to the priority specified by this information element.

[0167] This information element is identified by a predetermined element ID (Element ID), and is composed of information length (Length), target latency information (Target Latency), time available for TXOP in single link (Single-Link TXOP Available), map of multi-link access categories (Multi-Link Access Category Map), map of single-link access categories (Single-Link Access Category Map), and so on.

[0168] (The first example) FIG. 19 shows a first example of the configuration of the multi-link access category map and the single-link access category map included in the information element of FIG. 18.

[0169] In FIG. 19, it shows that, as the initial setting state, data of all access categories are set to a state where they can be transmitted.

[0170] That is, in the multi-link access category map and the single-link access category map, each access category (AC_VO, AC_VI, AC_BE, AC_BG) is described as all "1".

[0171] In this example, the permission or non-permission of transmission is set by "1" and "0". When all are set to "1", it means that all access categories are in a state where they can be transmitted, and it represents a state where transmission is carried out in order from voice data based on the priority order of existing access categories.

[0172] (The second example) FIG. 20 shows a second example of the configuration of the multi-link access category map and the single-link access category map included in the information element of FIG. 18.

[0173] In FIG. 20, an example is shown in which settings are made to preferentially transmit video data of access category (AC_VI) in both the multi-link and the single-link.

[0174] That is, in the multi-link access category map and the single-link access category map, "1" is described for AC_VI, and "0" is described for other access categories (AC_VO, AC_BE, AC_BG).

[0175] As a result, the video data of access category (AC_VI) is transmitted with the highest priority in both the multi-link and the single-link. When the data of this access category no longer exists, the data of other access categories is transmitted according to a predetermined priority order, for example, in the order of AC_VO, AC_VI, AC_BE, AC_BG.

[0176] (The third example) FIG. 21 shows a third example of the configuration of the multi-link access category map and the single-link access category map included in the information element of FIG. 18.

[0177] In FIG. 21, an example is shown in which settings are made to preferentially transmit video data of access category (AC_VI) only in the single-link.

[0178] That is, in the multi-link access category map, all access categories (AC_VO, AC_VI, AC_BE, AC_BG) are described as "1", while in the single-link access category map, "1" is described for AC_VI, and "0" is described for other access categories (AC_VO, AC_BE, AC_BG).

[0179] As a result, in the case of multi-link, transmission is performed in the order of, for example, AC_VO, AC_VI, AC_BE, AC_BG according to the priority of existing access categories. On the other hand, in the case of single-link, video data of the access category (AC_VI) is transmitted with the highest priority. Such a configuration is set in cases where there are other wireless communication systems in the vicinity and it is difficult to use as multi-link.

[0180] (The fourth example) FIG. 22 shows a fourth example of the configuration of the multi-link access category map and the single-link access category map included in the information element of FIG. 18.

[0181] FIG. 22 shows an example in the case where, only in multi-link, settings are made to preferentially transmit video data of the access category (AC_VI) and any best-effort data of the access category (AC_BE).

[0182] That is, in the multi-link access category map, "1" is described for AC_VI and AC_BE, and "0" is described for other access categories (AC_VO, AC_BG). Also, in the single-link access category map, each access category (AC_VO, AC_VI, AC_BE, AC_BG) is described as "1".

[0183] As a result, in the case of multi-link, video data and best-effort data of the access categories (AC_VI, AC_BE) are preferentially transmitted. On the other hand, in the case of single-link, transmission is performed in the order of, for example, AC_VO, AC_VI, AC_BE, AC_BG according to the priority of existing access categories. Such a configuration is set in cases where there are no other wireless communication systems in the vicinity and multi-link usage occupies most of the situation.

[0184] As described above, by using the access category map and setting the transmission availability to "1" and "0" for each access category for both multi-link and single-link, it is possible to set information regarding the transmission priority for multi-link and information regarding the transmission priority for single-link for each access category.

[0185] In the examples of FIGS. 19 to 22, examples of setting both the multi-link access category map and the single-link access category map have been described. However, it may be configured such that only at least one of the access category maps is set. For example, information regarding the transmission priority can be set only for the multi-link access category map.

[0186] Also, in the examples of FIGS. 19 to 22, an example of setting the transmission availability to "1" and "0" using the access category map has been shown. However, other setting methods may be used as long as the transmission priority for multi-link and single-link can be set for each access category.

[0187] In addition, when the priority order of access categories is different between the uplink and the downlink, information regarding the priority for the uplink and the downlink may be set for each access category. For example, when playing a game on a device such as a smartphone or a game console, it is assumed that command data is prioritized for the uplink and video data is prioritized for the downlink.

[0188] In this case, in the multi-link or single-link access category map, for the uplink, it is set such that best effort data (including command data) of access category (AC_BE) is preferentially transmitted, while for the downlink, it may be set such that video data of access category (AC_VI) is preferentially transmitted. When storing this access category map in an information element (Figure 18), for example, by adding information (Direction) indicating the direction of information transmission and reception, it becomes possible to distinguish between the uplink and the downlink.

[0189] In this way, even when the priority order of access categories is different between the uplink and the downlink, it is possible to handle the situation, and more specifically, the control of data transmission and reception can be performed. Specifically, the access point AP can notify the communication terminal STA in advance of what data to send during download, or the communication terminal STA can notify the access point AP in advance of the order in which to send data during upload.

[0190] (Configuration of the operation frame) Figure 23 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a single-link / multi-link operation frame (SMLO Request / Grant / Release) to which this technology is applied.

[0191] This operation frame is a notification signal used to notify the access point AP and the transmitting-side communication device 10Tx of the setting of access categories that can be preferentially transmitted in single-link and multi-link from the communication terminal STA and the receiving-side communication device 10Rx.

[0192] That is, this operation frame is configured as a request frame when transmitted as a setting request, configured as a grant frame when transmitted as a response, and configured as a release frame when a release is requested.

[0193] This operation frame is composed of information for identifying the type of the frame (Frame Control), the duration of the frame (Duration), the transmission-side communication device address (Transmit Address), the reception-side communication device address (Receive Address), information indicating the direction of information transmission and reception (Direction), information indicating the type of application (Application), information for identifying traffic (Traffic ID), the aforementioned single / multi-link operation information element to be changed (Change SMLO IE), etc. Also, a frame check sequence (FCS: Frame Check Sequence) for error detection is added at the end of this operation frame.

[0194] (Priority Transmission Setting / Cancellation) Next, with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 24 and 25, the flow of the priority transmission setting / cancellation operation for single link and multi-link will be described.

[0195] In step S101, the single / multi-link operation control unit 104 determines whether a specific application has been started. This specific application includes applications such as real-time data distribution applications and game applications.

[0196] If it is determined in the determination process of step S101 that the specific application has been started, the process proceeds to step S102. In step S102, the single / multi-link operation control unit 104 acquires the attributes and parameters required for the specific application.

[0197] In step S103, the single / multi-link operation control unit 104 determines whether there is a latency requirement. If it is determined in the determination process of step S103 that there is no latency requirement, the process returns to step S101.

[0198] In the determination process of step S103, if it is determined that there is a short latency requirement, the process proceeds to step S104. In step S104, the single / multi-link operation control unit 104 acquires the current setting information of the priority transmission for the single link and the multi-link.

[0199] In step S105, the single / multi-link operation control unit 104 determines whether the situation requires the setting of priority transmission. If it is determined in the determination process of step S105 that the setting of priority transmission is not required, the process returns to step S101.

[0200] If it is determined in the determination process of step S105 that the situation requires the setting of priority transmission, the process proceeds to step S106, and the processes of steps S106 to S113 are executed by the single / multi-link operation control unit 104.

[0201] That is, the operation status information regarding the operation status of other wireless communication systems is acquired (S106), the priority transmission determination between the single link and the multi-link is performed (S107), and the setting for preferentially transmitting the data of the access category corresponding to the specific application is performed (S108).

[0202] Here, the current setting status of the priority transmission for the single link and the multi-link is acquired, and based on the parameters required by the specific application, it is determined whether the priority transmission setting is possible for the data of a specific access category on either the single link or the multi-link, or both.

[0203] At this time, if the own device is the transmission-side communication device 10Tx and is operating as the access point AP (''Yes'' in S109, ''Yes'' in S110), the parameter is described in the single / multi-link operation information element (SMLO IE) (S111). As a result, the setting information of the single / multi-link operation information element (SMLO IE) is updated, and the information is notified by the subsequent beacon signal.

[0204] On the other hand, when the own device is the receiving-side communication device 10Rx of a specific application ( "No" in S109), a single-link / multi-link operation frame (request frame) including a request for priority transmission setting is transmitted to the transmitting-side communication device 10Tx (S112).

[0205] When a single-link / multi-link operation frame (grant frame) is received as a response to the request frame ( "Yes" in S113), it means that the transmission setting has been implemented at the transmitting-side communication device 10Tx. If the grant frame is not received ( "No" in S113), the process returns to step S107, and the priority transmission determination for single-link and multi-link is performed again.

[0206] If the own device is the transmitting-side communication device 10Tx but is not operating as the access point AP ( "Yes" in S109, "No" in S110), when the process of step S111 ends, or if the own device is the receiving-side communication device 10Rx and a grant frame is received as a response to the request frame ( "No" in S109, "Yes" in S112 and S113), the process returns to step S101.

[0207] On the other hand, if it is determined in the determination process of step S101 that the specific application has not been started, the process proceeds to step S114 in FIG. 25.

[0208] In step S114, the single / multi-link operation control unit 104 determines whether the specific application has ended.

[0209] If it is determined in the determination process of step S114 that the specific application has ended, the process proceeds to step S115. In step S115, the single / multi-link operation control unit 104 acquires priority transmission setting information regarding the current priority transmission setting.

[0210] In step S116, the single / multi-link operation control unit 104 determines whether priority transmission is set based on the priority transmission setting information.

[0211] In the determination process of step S116, if it is determined that priority transmission is set, the process proceeds to step S117, and the processes of steps S117 to S126 are executed by the single / multi-link operation control unit 104.

[0212] That is, when the own device is the transmission-side communication device 10Tx (\"Yes\" in S117), the priority transmission setting of the data in the access category corresponding to the specific application is canceled (S118). And when the own device is operating as the access point AP (\"Yes\" in S119), the parameter is described in the single / multi-link operation information element (SMLO IE) (S120).

[0213] Thereby, the setting information of the single / multi-link operation information element (SMLO IE) is updated, and the information is notified by the subsequent beacon signal. When the own device is not operating as the access point AP (\"No\" in S119), the process of step S120 is skipped and the series of operations ends.

[0214] Also, when the own device is not the transmission-side communication device 10Tx but the reception-side communication device 10Rx (\"No\" in S117), a single-link / multi-link operation frame (release frame) including cancellation of the priority transmission setting is transmitted to the transmission-side communication device 10Tx (S121).

[0215] When the process of step S121 ends, if the specific application has not ended ( "Yes" in S114), or if priority transmission is not set ( "No" in S116), the process proceeds to step S122. Then, when a single - link / multi - link operation frame (request frame) including a request for priority transmission setting is received from another device (e.g., the receiving - side communication device 10Rx) ( "Yes" in S122), priority transmission setting information regarding the current priority transmission setting is acquired (S123).

[0216] Here, based on the priority transmission setting information, the presence or absence of the priority transmission setting is grasped. If priority transmission setting is possible ( "Yes" in S124), the priority transmission setting is updated for the new priority transmission (S125), and the parameter is described in the single - multi - link operation information element (SMLO IE) (S126). As a result, the setting information of the single - multi - link operation information element (SMLO IE) is updated, and that information is notified by subsequent beacon signals.

[0217] When the process of step S126 ends, if a request frame has not been received from another device ( "No" in S122), or if priority transmission setting cannot be performed ( "No" in S124), the process returns to step S101 in FIG. 24. By repeatedly performing these series of processes, priority transmission setting is performed for any application.

[0218] The flow of the priority transmission setting / cancellation operations for single - link and multi - link has been described above.

[0219] (Access Control) Next, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 26, the flow of the access control operations for single - link and multi - link will be described.

[0220] In step S201, when there is data to be transmitted, the access control unit 108 determines whether the radio transmission path can be used.

[0221] In the determination process of step S201, if it is determined that the wireless transmission path is available, the process proceeds to step S202. In step S202, the access control unit 108 determines whether it is possible to set a transmission opportunity (TXOP) for a certain period.

[0222] In the determination process of step S202, if it is determined that it is possible to set a transmission opportunity (TXOP), the process proceeds to step S203. In step S203, the access control unit 108 sets that period as a transmission opportunity (TXOP). Note that if it is determined in the determination process of step S202 that the transmission opportunity (TXOP) cannot be set, the process of step S203 is skipped and the process proceeds to step S204.

[0223] In step S204, the access control unit 108 determines whether there is a priority transmission setting.

[0224] In the determination process of step S204, if it is determined that there is no priority transmission setting, the process proceeds to step S205. In step S205, the access control unit 108 sets an EDCA timer according to the data of each access category stored in the transmission buffer 103 based on the existing EDCA access control method (S205).

[0225] On the other hand, if it is determined in the determination process of step S204 that a priority transmission setting has been made, the process proceeds to step S206, and the processes of steps S206 to S208 are executed.

[0226] That is, the parameters described in the current single multi-link operation information element (SMLO IE) are acquired (S206). If there is data corresponding to the access category in which transmission is set among the single link and the multi-link described therein, the multi-link transmission wait timer is set according to the setting (S207), or the single link transmission wait timer is set (S208).

[0227] When step S205 or S208 ends, the process proceeds to step S209, and the processes of steps S209 to S216 are executed.

[0228] That is, when the EDCA timer expires (``Yes'' in S209), data is acquired from the upper buffer of the access category (S210). Also, when the multi-link transmission wait timer expires (``Yes'' in S211), data of the access category capable of multi-link transmission is acquired from the upper buffer of the access category (S212). Further, when the single-link transmission wait timer expires (``Yes'' in S213), data of the access category capable of single-link transmission is acquired (S214).

[0229] Note that the upper buffer is the transmission buffer 103 that stores data of the access category with a higher priority, and the lower buffer is the transmission buffer 103 that stores data of the access category with a lower priority. Also, in the determination processes of steps S209, S211, and S213, if it is determined that none of the timers have expired, the process returns to step S209, and the transmission wait operation is repeated until the transmission wait timer expires.

[0230] Then, a predetermined data frame is constructed from the transmission data thus acquired (S215), and the constructed data frame is transmitted via the wireless transmission path (S216). At this time, when operating as a single link, only one link is used, and when operating as a multi-link, a plurality of links are used.

[0231] In step S217, the access control unit 108 determines whether there is remaining time of the transmission opportunity (TXOP).

[0232] In the determination process of step S217, if it is determined that there is no remaining time for the transmission opportunity (TXOP), the data transmission up to that point is configured to be completed, and the process returns to step S201, and the access control procedure is executed again.

[0233] Also, in the determination process of step S217, if it is determined that there is remaining time for the transmission opportunity (TXOP), the process proceeds to step S218. In step S218, the access control unit 108 determines whether there is data stored in the lower buffer.

[0234] That is, after transmitting predetermined data (for example, data of an access category with a high priority), when there is remaining time for the transmission opportunity (TXOP), the presence or absence of data in another access category is sequentially confirmed from the upper access category (the upper buffer storing the data) to the lower access category (the lower buffer storing the data). If there is no data to be transmitted here (''Yes'' in S218), the series of transmission operations is terminated.

[0235] On the other hand, if there is data to be transmitted (''No'' in S218), the access control unit 108 sets a transmission waiting timer for the data of the next access category according to the priority of the access category (S219). Then, the process returns to step S209, and the transmission waiting operation is repeated until the transmission waiting timer expires.

[0236] The operation flow of the access control for the single link and the multi - link has been described above.

[0237] <2. Modification Example>

[0238] (Examples of Other Configurations) As described above, the transmitting communication device 10Tx can be configured as, for example, an access point AP10 (base station), and the receiving communication device 10Rx can be configured as, for example, a communication terminal STA10 (terminal station). However, the transmitting communication device 10Tx or the receiving communication device 10Rx may be configured as a part of a device (component) that constitutes the access point AP10 or the communication terminal STA10 (for example, a wireless communication module, a wireless chip, etc.).

[0239] Also, for example, the receiving communication device 10Rx configured as the communication terminal STA10 can be configured as an electronic device having a wireless communication function such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a game device, a mobile phone, a personal computer, a digital camera, a television receiver, a wearable terminal, a speaker device, etc.

[0240] Furthermore, the communication terminal STA10 may be a device that only supports data transmission such as a controller that transmits command data according to a user's operation, or a device that only supports data reception such as a display device that receives and displays video data. Note that the user can play games by installing a game application on a communication terminal STA10 such as a smartphone in addition to using a dedicated game device.

[0241] (Multiple links) In the above description, when realizing multi-link, the case where two links, i.e., the first link (Link #1) and the second link (Link #2), are used as the multiple links is exemplified. However, the same control can be implemented when using three or more links, such as when further including the third link (Link #3).

[0242] As described above, in the present technology, a configuration is proposed in which, for each data access category, information regarding the priority of transmission via multi-link and information regarding the priority of transmission via single-link are set. As a result, in order to selectively acquire a transmission opportunity (TXOP) by means of priority transmission control for single-link operation and multi-link operation, as a method for performing priority communication using single-link and multi-link according to the access category of the data to be transmitted, a priority transmission access control method is provided that outputs data of a specified access category, making it possible to transmit data with a shorter waiting time.

[0243] That is, in the present technology, an access control method is provided that controls the possibility of communication using each of multi-link and single-link according to the attributes of the data to be transmitted. For example, the access point AP10 designates the attributes of these data, and according to the control, the communication terminal STA10 can perform transmission.

[0244] Normally, transmission control is performed in the order of access categories based on the existing priorities. However, when data requiring a short latency is stored in the transmission buffer 103 as a specific access category, it is possible to preferentially transmit the data of that access category via multi-link or single-link with a short waiting time.

[0245] That is, in the present technology, by adopting a configuration in which transmission via single-link and multi-link can be individually set for each attribute (access category) of the transmission data stored in the transmission buffer 103, during the operation of an application specified by the user, it is possible to transmit data of a specific access category with a latency shorter than a predetermined period.

[0246] Thus, for example, normally in single-link and multi-link, control is performed to transmit data of all access categories with existing transmission control, and for data of the access category in which data of an application requiring real-time performance is stored, transmission is performed in single-link and multi-link, and for data of other access categories, settings such as transmission using multi-link are made possible. Note that normally, by setting the transmission opportunity (TXOP) fairly for data of all access categories, whether in single-link or multi-link, the original EDCA control can be implemented.

[0247] Also, by implementing multi-link operation, for data that requires short latency, by setting the transmission opportunity (TXOP) in at least one of the single-link and multi-link, the effect that more transmission opportunities (TXOP) can be obtained is achieved. By setting the transmission opportunity preferentially in this way, even data that is of lower priority in the transmission priority order by the existing EDCA control can be transmitted preferentially.

[0248] That is, in the existing EDCA control, the transmission priority is determined according to the access category of the data to be transmitted, but in this technology, since the user can specify the priority separately from the existing access category for the data transmitted in the single-link, data that requires real-time performance can be transmitted preferentially over voice data from other communication devices 10. Also, without providing a transmission buffer for more preferential transmission with respect to the structure of the existing transmission buffer, specific data can be transmitted preferentially.

[0249] Also, even when an application is launched from the receiving-side communication device 10Rx, a method for preferentially transmitting real-time data is provided by transmitting a request frame as a priority transmission control request notification from the receiving-side communication device 10Rx to the transmitting-side communication device 10Tx. On the other hand, even when the termination of the application is instructed from the receiving-side communication device 10Rx, a method for canceling the priority transmission is provided by transmitting a release frame as a priority transmission control cancellation notification from the receiving-side communication device 10Rx to the transmitting-side communication device 10Tx, and a method for transmitting other data is obtained.

[0250] Note that Patent Document 1 described above discloses a wireless device capable of simultaneously transmitting a plurality of frames to the same destination using a plurality of frequency channels. When the availability of the first frequency channel continues for the first period, the frame in the buffer is output to the first transmission means, and when the availability of the second frequency channel continues for the second period, the frame in the buffer is output to the second transmission means, and its control technique. However, this configuration is a configuration in which frames are transmitted when the waiting times of different channels expire in the first single link and the second single link, and a configuration for setting the transmission waiting time of either single link and the waiting times of both multi-links is not included, and the effects of the present technology described above cannot be obtained.

[0251] (Configuration of computer) The processing of each step of the flowchart described above can be executed by hardware or by software. When a series of processing is executed by software, the program constituting the software is installed in the computer of each device.

[0252] Here, in this specification, the processing performed by the computer according to the program does not necessarily have to be performed in time series in the order described as a flowchart. That is, the processing performed by the computer according to the program also includes processing executed in parallel or individually (for example, parallel processing or object-based processing).

[0253] Also, the program may be processed by one computer (processor) or may be distributedly processed by a plurality of computers. Further, the program may be transferred to a remote computer for execution.

[0254] Furthermore, in this specification, a system means a collection of a plurality of components (devices, modules (parts), etc.), and it does not matter whether all the components are in the same housing.

[0255] Note that the embodiments of the present technology are not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the gist of the present technology.

[0256] Also, each step described in the above flowchart can be executed by one device or can be executed in cooperation by a plurality of devices. Further, when a plurality of processes are included in one step, the plurality of processes included in that one step can be executed by one device or can be executed in cooperation by a plurality of devices.

[0257] Also, the effects described in this specification are merely illustrative and not limiting, and there may be other effects.

[0258] Note that the present technology can have the following configurations.

[0259] (1) A communication device comprising a control unit that sets information regarding the transmission priority on a plurality of links for each access category of data when transmitting data using a plurality of links corresponding to a predetermined frequency band. Communication device. (2) The control unit sets information regarding the transmission priority on one link for each access category. The communication device according to (1) above. (3) The control unit sets information regarding priorities for uplink and downlink for each of the access categories. The communication device according to (1) above. (4) The control unit controls so that in all access categories, prioritized transmission on a plurality of links and fair transmission on one link are performed. The communication device according to (2) above. (5) The control unit enables transmission on a plurality of links or one link in an access category in which specific data exists, and controls so that fair transmission is performed in other access categories. to control The communication device according to (2) above. (6) The specific data includes data for which transmission with a latency shorter than a predetermined period is required. The communication device according to (5) above. (7) When an application that requires real-time performance is started, the control unit sets the transmission priority for each access category of the specific data. The communication device according to (5) above. (8) When data is not stored in a transmission buffer corresponding to a specific access category, the control unit controls to transmit data stored in other transmission buffers. The communication device according to (5) above. (9) The control unit controls to transmit in order from data with higher priority among the data stored in transmission buffers corresponding to other access categories. The communication device according to (8) above. (10) When itself is a communication device on the receiving side of the application, the control unit controls to transmit a notification signal for requesting prioritized transmission of the data to the communication device on the transmission side of the data used in the application. The communication device according to (7) above. (11) When itself is a communication device on the transmission side of data used in the application, when the control unit receives a notification signal for requesting preferential transmission of the data from a communication device on the reception side of the application, the control unit controls to preferentially transmit data in a specific access category The communication device according to (7) above. (12) When itself is operating as an access point, the control unit controls to transmit a beacon signal describing an information element including information regarding the priority of transmission on a plurality of links or the priority of transmission on one link The communication device according to (2) above. (13) when the application ends, the control unit controls so that transmission on a plurality of links or transmission on one link is performed fairly in all access categories The communication device according to (7), (10), or (11) above. (14) When itself is a communication device on the reception side of the application, the control unit controls to transmit a notification signal for requesting cancellation of preferential transmission of the data to a communication device on the transmission side of the data used in the application The communication device according to (13) above. (15) When itself is a communication device on the transmission side of data used in the application, when the control unit receives a notification signal for requesting cancellation of preferential transmission of the data from a communication device on the reception side of the application, the control unit controls so that transmission on a plurality of links or transmission on one link is performed fairly The communication device according to (13) above. (16) Each link among a plurality of links includes a non - continuous frequency band. The control unit controls wireless communication using frequency bands corresponding to a plurality of links. The communication device according to any one of (1) to (15) above. (17) The control unit sets whether transmission is possible on a plurality of links or whether transmission is possible on one link for each access category. The communication device according to (2) above. (18) The access category includes voice, video, best effort, and background. The communication device according to any one of (1) to (17) above. (19) The control unit sets the priority of the uplink of a specific access category to be the highest, and sets the priority of the downlink of other access categories to be the highest. The communication device according to (3) above. (20) When the communication device transmits data using a plurality of links corresponding to a predetermined frequency band, it sets information regarding the transmission priority on a plurality of links for each access category of the data. Communication method.

Description of Signs

[0260] 1-1 Wireless LAN System, 10 Communication Device, 11 Network Connection Module, 12 Information Input Module, 13 Device Control Module, 14 Information Output Module, 15 Wireless Communication Module, 101 Interface, 102 Category Determination Unit, 103 Transmission Buffer, 103-1 AC_VO Buffer, 103-2 AC_VI Buffer, 103-3 AC_BE Buffer, 103-4 AC_BG Buffer, 104 Single / Multi-Link Operation Control Unit, 105 Dequeue Control Unit, 106 Timing Control Unit, 107 Frame Construction Unit, 108 Access Control Unit, 109-1, 109-2 Transmission Processing Unit, 110 Antenna Control Unit, 111-1, 111-2 Reception Processing Unit, 112 Frame Extraction Unit, 113 Data Analysis Unit, 114 Reception Buffer, 115 Output Data Construction Unit

Claims

1. A wireless communication control device comprising a control unit that sets information regarding the priority for each access category of data in transmission using a plurality of links when transmitting data using a plurality of links corresponding to a predetermined frequency band.

2. When transmitting data using one link corresponding to a predetermined frequency band, the control unit sets information regarding the priority for each access category in transmission using one link. The wireless communication control device according to claim 1.

3. The control unit sets information regarding the priority in the uplink and downlink for each access category. The wireless communication control device according to claim 1.

4. The control unit controls so that preferential transmission using a plurality of links and fair transmission using one link are performed in all access categories. The wireless communication control device according to claim 2.

5. The control unit enables transmission using a plurality of links or one link in an access category in which specific data exists, and controls so that fair transmission is performed in other access categories. The wireless communication control device according to claim 2.

6. The specific data includes data for which transmission with a latency shorter than a predetermined period is required. The wireless communication control device according to claim 5.

7. When an application requiring real-time performance is launched, the control unit sets the transmission priority for each access category of the specific data. The wireless communication control device according to claim 5.

8. When data is not stored in the transmission buffer corresponding to a specific access category, the control unit controls to transmit data stored in other transmission buffers. The wireless communication control device according to claim 5.

9. The control unit controls to transmit, in order, data with a higher priority among the data stored in the transmission buffers corresponding to other access categories. The wireless communication control device according to claim 8.

10. In the case where the device itself is a wireless communication control device on the receiving side of the application, the control unit controls to transmit a notification signal for requesting preferential transmission of the data to the wireless communication control device on the transmitting side of the data used in the application. The wireless communication control device according to claim 7.

11. When it is a wireless communication control device on the transmission side of data used in the application, when the control unit receives a notification signal for requesting preferential transmission of the data from a wireless communication control device on the reception side of the application, it controls to preferentially transmit data in a specific access category The wireless communication control device according to claim 7.

12. When it is operating as an access point, the control unit controls to transmit a beacon signal describing an information element including information regarding the priority of transmission on a plurality of links or the priority of transmission on one link The wireless communication control device according to claim 2.

13. when the application ends, the control unit controls so that transmission on a plurality of links or transmission on one link is fairly performed in all access categories The wireless communication control device according to claim 7.

14. When it is a wireless communication control device on the reception side of the application, the control unit controls to transmit a notification signal for requesting cancellation of preferential transmission of the data to a wireless communication control device on the transmission side of the data used in the application The wireless communication control device according to claim 13.

15. When it is a wireless communication control device on the transmission side of data used in the application, when the control unit receives a notification signal for requesting cancellation of preferential transmission of the data from a wireless communication control device on the reception side of the application, it controls so that transmission on a plurality of links or transmission on one link is fairly performed The wireless communication control device according to claim 13.

16. Each link in a plurality of links includes a discontinuous frequency band, and the control unit controls wireless communication using a frequency band corresponding to a plurality of links. The wireless communication control device according to claim 1.

17. the control unit sets the availability of transmission on a plurality of links or the availability of transmission on one link for each access category The wireless communication control device according to claim 2.

18. The access category includes voice, video, best effort, and background. The wireless communication control device according to claim 17.

19. The control unit sets the priority of the uplink in a specific access category to be the highest, Set the priority of the downlink of other access categories to be the highest The wireless communication control device according to claim 3

20. The wireless communication control device When transmitting data using a plurality of links corresponding to a predetermined frequency band, set information regarding the priority for each access category of data in transmission using the plurality of links Wireless communication control method

Images