Communication device

Abstract

To allow data to be transmitted reliably even in communication using a plurality of bands.SOLUTION: In communication using a plurality of bands, a wireless communication device collectively manages sequence numbers of data transmitted using the respective bands and transmits information regarding a method of causing reception results of the data to be notified of and information regarding a management method. The present technique can be applied to wireless communication systems.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 13

Description

Technical Field

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[0001] This technology Communication device relates to, and in particular, even in communication using a plurality of bands, enables reliable data transmission Communication device and relates to.

Background Art

[0002] The demand for high-speed wireless communication with high communication quality is increasing. To achieve high transmission speed, for example, it is known to perform communication using a plurality of frequency bands (hereinafter, also simply referred to as bands).

[0003] For example, in wireless communication, a plurality of bands are allocated to an unlicensed band where it is necessary to perform Listen Before Talk to check whether the band is being used before transmission. Wireless communication that realizes high transmission speed using these plurality of bands is expected in the future. Patent Document 1 proposes a communication method that simultaneously uses a plurality of bands assuming a wireless LAN (Local Area Network).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Conventionally, when managing the sequence numbers of data for each band and obtaining the transmission right in a plurality of bands, the transmission timings may be scattered for each band.

[0006] In such cases, even if data sequence numbers are managed centrally across multiple bandwidths, the retransmission order for the sequence numbers can be disrupted depending on when the packet transmission begins and ends. Furthermore, there is a risk that the receiving end may process later-arriving data as if it did not exist.

[0007] This technology was developed in light of these circumstances, and aims to ensure reliable data transmission even in communications using multiple bandwidths. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] One aspect of this technology is a wireless communication device that, in communication using multiple frequency bands, centrally manages the sequence numbers of data transmitted using each frequency band, and controls the transmission of information regarding the method of notifying the reception results of the data and information regarding the management method.

[0009] In one aspect of this technology, in communication using multiple bandwidths, the sequence numbers of data transmitted using each bandwidth are managed collectively, and information regarding the method of notifying the reception results of the data and information regarding the management method are transmitted. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This is a diagram showing an example configuration of a conventional wireless communication system. [Figure 2] This figure shows an example of the operation sequence of a conventional wireless communication system. [Figure 3] This figure shows another example of the operation sequence of a conventional wireless communication system. [Figure 4] This diagram shows an example of a send queue. [Figure 5] This diagram shows an example of a send queue. [Figure 6] This figure shows yet another example of the operating sequence of a conventional wireless communication system. [Figure 7]It is a diagram showing a configuration example of a wireless communication system according to an embodiment of the present technology. [Figure 8] It is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a wireless communication device. [Figure 9] It is a diagram showing an example of a sequence at the time of association of the wireless communication system in FIG. 7. [Figure 10] It is a diagram showing a frame configuration example of MBO Info. [Figure 11] It is a diagram showing a frame configuration example of MBO Info.response. [Figure 12] It is a diagram showing another example of a sequence at the time of association in FIG. 9. [Figure 13] It is a diagram showing an example of a sequence at the time of data transmission of the wireless communication system in FIG. 7. [Figure 14] It is a flowchart for explaining a process of determining a band for transmitting SN-BAR. [Figure 15] It is a diagram showing another example of a sequence at the time of data transmission of the wireless communication system in FIG. 7. [Figure 16] It is a diagram showing a format configuration example used for a Data signal. [Figure 17] It is a diagram showing another format configuration example used for a Data signal. [Figure 18] It is a diagram showing a format configuration example of an SN-BAR frame. [Figure 19] It is a diagram showing a format configuration example of an SN-BA frame. [Figure 20] It is a diagram showing an example of transmission and reception of SN-BA specified by SN-BAR. [Figure 21] It is a diagram showing another example of transmission and reception of SN-BA specified by SN-BAR. [Figure 22] It is a diagram showing yet another example of transmission and reception of SN-BA specified by SN-BAR. [Figure 23] It is a diagram showing another example of a sequence at the time of data transmission of the wireless communication system in FIG. 7. [Figure 24]This is a flowchart for explaining the process of determining the bandwidth for transmitting SN-BA. [Figure 25] This is a diagram showing another example of the sequence in FIG. 23. [Figure 26] This is a diagram showing an example of the format configuration used for the Data signal. [Figure 27] This is a diagram showing another example of the format configuration used for the Data signal. [Figure 28] This is a diagram showing another example of the format configuration used for the Data signal. [Figure 29] This is a diagram showing another example of the sequence in FIG. 23. [Figure 30] This is a diagram showing an example of SN-BA transmitted based on a specified notification method. [Figure 31] This is a diagram showing another example of SN-BA transmitted based on a specified notification method. [Figure 32] This is a diagram showing yet another example of SN-BA transmitted based on a specified notification method. [Figure 33] This is a diagram showing an example of the Capability Information field. [Figure 34] This is a block diagram showing an example of the computer configuration.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present technology will be described. The description will be carried out in the following order. 1. Conventional 2. Configuration of the Present Technology 3. First Embodiment 4. Second Embodiment 5. Others

[0012] <1. Conventional> <Configuration Example of Wireless Communication System> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a conventional wireless communication system.

[0013] The wireless communication system shown in Figure 1 is configured by connecting a base station (AP) to a terminal (STA) via wireless communication.

[0014] A base station (AP) consists of a wireless communication device 1. A terminal (STA) consists of a wireless communication device 2. Hereinafter, the base station (AP) will be simply referred to as AP, and the terminal (STA) will be simply referred to as STA.

[0015] The AP communicates with the STA using two or more frequency bands (hereinafter referred to as "bands").

[0016] <Example of a conventional operation sequence> Figure 2 shows an example of the operation sequence of a conventional wireless communication system.

[0017] Figure 2 shows the operation sequence when data sequence numbers are managed independently for each of the multiple bandwidths. Figure 2 also shows an example where wireless communication device 1 (AP) and wireless communication device 2 (STA) communicate using three bandwidths.

[0018] Here, the AP and STA communicate using the first, second, and third bands. In Figure 2, the sequences of the AP's first, second, and third bands are shown as AP@Band1, AP@Band2, and AP@Band3, respectively. The sequences of the STA's first, second, and third bands are shown as STA@Band1, STA@Band2, and STA@Band3, respectively. Also, Data#1 to #3 represent data packets with sequence numbers #1, #2, and #3. The same applies to subsequent figures.

[0019] Note that "@Band1" in "Data#1 to #3@Band1" indicates that it is a sequence number managed in the first bandwidth.

[0020] At time t1, AP acquires the right to transmit in the first band and begins transmitting the Data#1 to #3@Band1 signals using the first band. In response to AP's commencement of transmission, STA begins receiving the Data#1 to #3@Band1 signals using the first band at time t1.

[0021] At time t2, AP acquires the right to transmit in the second band and begins transmitting the Data#1 to #3@Band2 signals using the second band. In response to AP's commencement of transmission, STA begins receiving the Data#1 to #3@Band2 signals using the second band at time t2.

[0022] At time t3, AP acquires the right to transmit in the third band and begins transmitting the Data#1 to #3@Band3 signals using the third band. In response to AP's commencement of transmission, STA begins receiving the Data#1 to #3@Band3 signals using the third band at time t3.

[0023] At time t4, AP completes the transmission of Data#1 to #3@Band2 signals using the second band. At time t4, STA completes the reception of Data#1 to #3@Band2 signals using the second band. At time t5, STA sends an ACK for Band2 to AP for Data#1 to #3@Band2 signals using the second band.

[0024] At time t6, AP completes the transmission of Data#1 to #3@Band1 signals using the first band. At time t6, STA completes the reception of Data#1 to #3@Band1 signals using the first band. At time t7, STA sends an ACK for Band1 back to AP for Data#1 to #3@Band1 signals using the first band.

[0025] At time t8, AP completes the transmission of Data#1 to #3@Band3 signals using the third band. At time t8, STA completes the reception of Data#1 to #3@Band3 signals using the third band. At time t9, STA sends an ACK for Band3 to AP for Data#1 to #3@Band3 signals using the third band.

[0026] In this case, sequence number management is performed, for example, at the MAC layer.

[0027] Therefore, if data is managed with independent sequence numbers for each bandwidth, the AP will require a control unit to process the same number of sequence numbers as the number of bandwidths communicating. Also, when acquiring transmission rights on multiple bandwidths, the timing of transmission start and completion will be inconsistent, as shown in Figure 2.

[0028] Figure 3 shows another example of the operation sequence of a conventional wireless communication system.

[0029] Figure 3 shows the operation sequence when managing sequence numbers for data from multiple bandwidths simultaneously.

[0030] The AP has a transmission queue as shown in Figure 4. For example, data packets Data#1 through #9 are input into the transmission queue in order.

[0031] At time t11, the AP acquires the right to transmit in the first bandwidth and begins transmitting the Data#1 to #3 signals using the first bandwidth. At this time, the Data#1 to #3 packets are retrieved from the transmission queue in Figure 4 in the order of input. In response to the AP's commencement of transmission, the STA begins receiving the signal consisting of the Data#1 to #3 packets using the first bandwidth at time t11.

[0032] At time t12, the AP acquires the right to transmit in the second bandwidth and begins transmitting the Data#4 through #6 signals using the second bandwidth. At this time, the Data#4 through #6 packets are retrieved from the transmission queue in Figure 4 in the order of input. In response to the AP's commencement of transmission, the STA begins receiving the signal consisting of the Data#4 through #6 packets using the second bandwidth at time t12.

[0033] At time t13, the AP acquires the right to transmit in the third bandwidth and begins transmitting the Data#7 through #9 signals using the third bandwidth. At this time, the Data#7 through #9 packets are retrieved from the transmission queue in Figure 4 in the order of input. In response to the AP's commencement of transmission, the STA begins receiving the signal consisting of the Data#7 through #9 packets using the third bandwidth at time t13.

[0034] At time t14, AP completes the transmission of Data#4 through #6 signals using the second bandwidth. At time t14, STA completes the reception of Data#4 through #6 signals using the second bandwidth. Assume that STA failed to receive the Data#4 signal.

[0035] At time t15, STA uses the second bandwidth to send an ACK for Band 2 to AP for signals Data#5 and #6. Once the transmission of Data#1 through Data#9 is complete, signals Data#10 through #15 are sequentially input into AP's transmit queue, as shown in Figure 5. The ACK for Band 2 alerts AP to the failure of STA to receive the signal Data#4, and prompts it to re-input the Data#4 packet to the front of the transmit queue (before Data#10) in Figure 5.

[0036] At time t16, AP completes the transmission of Data#1 through #3 signals using the first bandwidth. At time t16, STA completes the reception of Data#1 through #3 signals using the first bandwidth. Assume that STA failed to receive the Data#1 signal.

[0037] At time t17, STA uses the first bandwidth to send an ACK for Band1 to AP for the Data#2 and #3 signals. The ACK for Band1 allows AP to understand that STA failed to receive the Data#1 signal and to re-input the Data#1 packet to the front of the transmission queue (before Data#4) in Figure 5.

[0038] At time t18, AP completes the transmission of Data#7 through #9 signals using the third bandwidth. At time t18, STA completes the reception of Data#7 through #9 signals using the third bandwidth. Assume that STA failed to receive the Data#7 signal.

[0039] At time t19, STA uses the third band to send an ACK for Band 3 to AP for the Data #8 and #9 signals. The ACK for Band 3 allows AP to understand that STA failed to receive the Data #7 signal and to re-input the Data #7 packet to the front of the transmission queue (before Data #1) in Figure 5.

[0040] As a result, the transmission queue contains packets in the order Data#7, Data#1, Data#4, Data#10, ... as shown in Figure 5. Therefore, the AP was unable to retransmit the packets in the order of sequence numbers Data#1, Data#4, Data#7.

[0041] Figure 6 shows yet another example of the operation sequence of a conventional wireless communication system.

[0042] Figure 6 shows the operation sequence when managing sequence numbers for data from multiple bandwidths simultaneously, similar to the case in Figure 3.

[0043] At time t21, AP acquires the right to transmit in the first band and begins transmitting the Data#1 through #3 signals using the first band. In response to AP's commencement of transmission, STA begins receiving the Data#1 through #3 signals using the first band at time t21.

[0044] At time t22, AP acquires the right to transmit in the second band and begins transmitting Data#4 through #6 signals using the second band. In response to AP's commencement of transmission, STA begins receiving Data#4 through #6 signals using the second band at time t22.

[0045] At time t23, AP acquires the right to transmit in the third band and begins transmitting signals Data#7 through #9 using the third band. In response to AP's commencement of transmission, STA begins receiving signals Data#7 through #9 using the third band at time t23.

[0046] At time t24, AP completes the transmission of Data#4 through #6 signals using the second bandwidth. At time t24, STA completes the reception of Data#4 through #6 signals using the second bandwidth. At this time, the reception of Data#4 through #6 signals, which started transmission later, is completed before the reception of Data#1 through #3 signals, which started transmission earlier. Therefore, STA may process Data#4 through #6 signals as if there were no Data#1 through #3 signals.

[0047] Therefore, in this technology, the AP centrally manages the sequence numbers of data transmitted using each bandwidth in communication using multiple bandwidths, and transmits information regarding the method of notifying the data reception result and information regarding the management method.

[0048] This enables communication using multiple bandwidths over a single MAC layer, similar to the previous 802.11 standard.

[0049] Furthermore, the sequence number order during retransmission is prevented from being disrupted, and data loss due to discrepancies between the start and end of transmission can be prevented. Therefore, this technology ensures reliable data transmission even in communications using multiple bandwidths.

[0050] <2. Configuration of this technology> <Example of a wireless communication system configuration> Figure 7 shows an example of the configuration of a wireless communication system according to an embodiment of this technology.

[0051] The wireless communication system in Figure 7, like the wireless communication system in Figure 1, is configured by connecting the AP (Access Point) to the STA (Stand-Aid) wirelessly. The AP communicates with the STA using multiple frequency bands.

[0052] AP consists of wireless communication device 11. STA consists of wireless communication device 12.

[0053] <Example of device configuration> Figure 8 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the wireless communication device 11.

[0054] The wireless communication device 11 shown in Figure 8 is a device that operates as an AP (Access Point).

[0055] The wireless communication device 11 consists of a control unit 31, a power supply unit 32, communication units 33-1 to 33-3, and a storage unit 34. In the example shown in Figure 8, there are three communication units 33-1 to 33-3. The communication units 33-1 to 33-3 may be implemented as LSIs.

[0056] Communication units 33-1 to 33-3 each perform data transmission and reception. Communication units 33-1 to 33-3 each consist of a data processing unit 51, a wireless control unit 52, a modulation / demodulation unit 53, a signal processing unit 54, a channel estimation unit 55, wireless interface (I / F) units 56-1 to 56-N, an amplifier unit 57-1 to 57-N, and an antenna 58-1 to 58-N.

[0057] Furthermore, the wireless I / F sections 56-1 to 56-N, the amplifier sections 57-1 to 57-N, and the antennas 58-1 to 58-N may each be considered as one set with the same sub-number, and each set may constitute a single component. In addition, the functions of the amplifier sections 57-1 to 57-N may be incorporated into the wireless I / F sections 56-1 to 56-N.

[0058] Hereafter, communication units 33-1 to 33-3 will be simply referred to as communication unit 33 unless otherwise specified. Similarly, wireless I / F units 56-1 to 56-N, amplifier units 57-1 to 57-N, and antennas 58-1 to 58-N will be simply referred to as wireless I / F unit 56, amplifier unit 57, and antenna 58 unless otherwise specified.

[0059] The control unit 31 consists of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. The control unit 31 executes programs stored in the ROM or memory unit 34, etc., and controls the power supply unit 32 and the wireless control units 52 of each communication unit 33. The control unit 31 centrally manages the sequence numbers of each communication unit 33.

[0060] The power supply unit 32 consists of a battery power supply or a fixed power supply and supplies power to the entire wireless communication device 11.

[0061] The storage unit 34 has a single transmission queue. Packets of the necessary data are retrieved from the transmission queue in the order of input to the transmission queue, for the duration of the transmission time.

[0062] The data processing unit 51 generates packets for wireless transmission using data supplied from the upper layer during transmission. The data processing unit 51 performs processing on the generated packets, such as adding a header for media access control (MAC) and adding error detection codes, and stores the processed data in the transmission queue of the storage unit 34 according to the control of the wireless communication unit 52. The data processing unit 51 outputs data for the transmission time from the transmission queue of the storage unit 34 to the modulation / demodulation unit 53 according to the wireless communication unit 52.

[0063] Upon reception, the data processing unit 51 analyzes the MAC header, detects packet errors, and performs reordering on the data supplied from the modulation / demodulation unit 53, and outputs the processed data to its higher layer.

[0064] The wireless control unit 52 handles the exchange of information between the various parts of the wireless communication device 11, the exchange of data between the storage unit 34 and the data processing unit 51, and controls the various parts within the communication unit 33. The wireless control unit 52 consists of a transmission control unit 61 and a reception control unit 62.

[0065] The transmission control unit 61, during transmission, performs parameter settings in the modulation / demodulation unit 53 and signal processing unit 54, packet scheduling in the data processing unit 51, parameter settings for the wireless interface unit 56 and amplifier unit 57, and transmission power control as needed. The reception control unit 62, during reception, performs parameter settings in the modulation / demodulation unit 53 and signal processing unit 54, parameter settings for the wireless interface unit 56 and amplifier unit 57 as needed.

[0066] Furthermore, in particular, when communication is performed using multiple bandwidths, the transmission control unit 61 controls each component to manage and transmit the sequence numbers of the data to be transmitted in each bandwidth in accordance with the control unit 31. The transmission control unit 61 also controls each component to transmit information regarding the notification method and management method of the reception result.

[0067] The receiving control unit 62 controls each component to receive the reception results using a specific bandwidth.

[0068] Furthermore, at least some of the operations of the wireless control unit 52 may be performed by the control unit 31 instead. Also, the control unit 31 and the wireless control unit 52 may be configured as a single block.

[0069] During transmission, the modulation / demodulation unit 53 encodes, interleaves, and modulates the data supplied from the data processing unit 51 based on the encoding scheme and modulation scheme set by the control unit 31, thereby generating a data symbol stream. The modulation / demodulation unit 53 outputs the generated data symbol stream to the signal processing unit 54.

[0070] When receiving a signal, the modulation / demodulation unit 53 outputs the resulting data, obtained by demodulating, deinterleaving, and decoding the data symbol stream supplied from the signal processing unit 54, to the data processing unit 51 or the wireless control unit 52.

[0071] The signal processing unit 54, when necessary during transmission, performs signal processing on the data symbol stream supplied from the modulation / demodulation unit 53 for spatial separation, and outputs one or more transmission symbol streams obtained as a result of the signal processing to the respective wireless I / F units 56.

[0072] The signal processing unit 54 performs signal processing on the received symbol stream supplied from each wireless I / F unit 56 upon reception, performs spatial separation of the stream as necessary, and outputs the resulting data symbol stream to the modulation / demodulation unit 53.

[0073] The channel estimation unit 55 calculates complex channel gain information for the propagation path from the preamble portion and the training signal portion of the received symbol stream supplied from each wireless I / F unit 56. The complex channel gain information is supplied to the modulation / demodulation unit 53 and the signal processing unit 54 via the wireless control unit 52 and used for demodulation processing in the modulation / demodulation unit 53 and spatial separation processing in the signal processing unit 54.

[0074] During transmission, the wireless I / F unit 56 converts the transmitted symbol stream from the signal processing unit 54 into an analog signal, filters it, upconverts it to the carrier frequency, and performs phase control, and outputs the analog signal after phase control to the amplifier unit 57.

[0075] When receiving an analog signal, the wireless I / F unit 56 performs phase control, down-conversion, and inverse filtering on the analog signal supplied from the amplifier unit 57, and outputs the resulting received symbol stream to the signal processing unit 54 and the channel estimation unit 55.

[0076] During transmission, the amplifier section 57 amplifies the analog signal supplied from the wireless interface section 56 to a predetermined power level and outputs the amplified analog signal to the antenna 58. During reception, the amplifier section 57 amplifies the analog signal supplied from the antenna 58 to a predetermined power level and outputs the amplified analog signal to the wireless interface section 56.

[0077] The amplifier section 57 may have at least one of its functions, either a transmission function or a reception function, or at least a part of it, incorporated into the wireless I / F section 56. Alternatively, at least a part of at least one of the functions of the amplifier section 57 may be an external component of the communication section 33.

[0078] Since the configuration of the wireless communication device 12, which operates as an STA, is basically the same as that of the wireless communication device 11, the configuration of the wireless communication device 11 will be used in the description of the wireless communication device 12 from here on.

[0079] In this case, the receiving control unit 62 receives information regarding the notification method and management method for receiving results used in communication across multiple bandwidths, and controls each unit to receive the Data signal transmitted using the multiple bandwidths. The transmitting control unit 61 uses the bandwidth that received the information regarding the notification method to control each unit to transmit the data reception results.

[0080] <3. First Embodiment> First, as a first embodiment, we will describe a case in which a signal requesting a reception result corresponding to a sequence number of data managed collectively across multiple bandwidths is transmitted in a specific bandwidth. Sequence number management is performed, for example, at the MAC layer, but it may also be performed at a layer higher than the MAC layer.

[0081] <Example of a sequence during association> Figure 9 shows an example of the association sequence for the wireless communication system shown in Figure 7.

[0082] Figure 9 shows the association operation sequence when an AP transmits information necessary for MBO (Multi-Band Operation) to an STA. This sequence is performed using one of several bandwidths.

[0083] In step S1, the STA sends a Probe Request. The Probe Request includes, for example, the network name and capability information indicating the STA's capabilities (functions).

[0084] The AP receives a probe request from the STA. If the network name included in the probe request is the same as its own network name, the AP sends a probe response in step S11. The probe response includes, for example, capability information indicating the AP's capabilities (functions).

[0085] When the STA receives a probe response, it performs authentication with the AP in step S2. The AP responds to the authentication from the STA and performs authentication with the STA in step S12.

[0086] Once mutual authentication is complete, the STA sends an Association require in step S3. When the AP receives the Association require from the STA, it sends an Association response in step S13.

[0087] The AP sends a connection response, and once the connection with the STA is complete, it sends MBO information (MBO Info.) in step S14. MBO information is a signal that stores information about the management method, including batch management information for sequence numbers and information requesting retention of the received results.

[0088] The centralized sequence number management information is one type of information regarding the management method, indicating that when transmitting using multiple bandwidths, the sequence numbers of the data are centrally managed and transmitted. It may also indicate the mode in which the sequence numbers of the data are centrally managed and transmitted when transmitting using multiple bandwidths. Upon receiving the centralized sequence number management information, the STA transitions to a state where transmission and reception using multiple bandwidths are possible.

[0089] The information requesting retention of received results is one type of information regarding the management method, and it indicates a request to retain a quantity of received results corresponding to the number of bandwidths.

[0090] MBO information is sent because, when transmission is performed using multiple bandwidths, it is necessary to retain the received data for up to an integer multiple of the conventionally transmittable data amount until the received data is returned. When transmitting MBO information, the amount of received data that can be retained may also be communicated at the same time.

[0091] When the STA receives the MBO information from the AP, at step S4, it transmits an MBO information response. The MBO information response is one of the pieces of information regarding the management method, and is a signal in which the reception result retention availability information indicating whether it is possible to retain the reception result of the amount specified by the MBO information is stored. If the specified reception result is retainable, the STA returns an MBO information response indicating that it is retainable. If the specified reception result is not retainable, the STA returns an MBO information response indicating the retainable amount.

[0092] After this, in the AP, the data amount transmitted in a plurality of bands is determined according to the retainable amount indicated in the transmitted MBO information response.

[0093] In the above manner, the connection between the STA and the AP is completed.

[0094] Note that in the example of FIG. 9, an example of individually transmitting the sequence number batch management information and the reception result retention request information as the MBO information is shown. These pieces of information may be sent attached to the Capability information or as part of the Capability information, for example, at the time of the above-described probe request or probe response, or, as will be described later, may be sent by adding them to the signal of the data to be transmitted.

[0095] <Example of Frame Configuration of MBO Info.> FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the frame configuration of MBO Info. Note that the description of the same parts as the conventional frame configuration will be omitted as appropriate.

[0096] The frame of MBO Info. is composed of a preamble consisting of L-STF, L-LTE, L-SIG, STF, LTF, and SIGNAL and DATA.

[0097] DATA consists of Frame Control, Duration / ID, Address1, Address2, Address3, Sequence Control, Address4, QoS Control, FCS Control, Frame Body, and FCS.

[0098] The batch management information of the sequence number is stored in the Frame Body as Multi band SN. The holding request information of the reception result is stored in the Frame Body as BA size Request.

[0099] <Frame configuration example of <MBO Info. response>> Figure 11 is a diagram showing a frame configuration example of <MBO Info. response>. Explanation of parts that are the same as the conventional frame configuration will be omitted as appropriate.

[0100] The frame of <MBO Info. response> is configured in the same way as <MBO Info.>.

[0101] The information on whether to hold the reception result is stored in the Frame Body as Allowable BA size.

[0102] <Another example of the sequence at the time of association> In the example of FIG. 9, an example of the sequence when the AP and the STA transmit information necessary for MBO at the time of association was shown. The information necessary for MBO is the batch management information of the sequence number, the holding request information of the reception result, and the information on whether to hold the reception result.

[0103] Among the information necessary for MBO, the STA may spontaneously transmit the information on whether to hold the reception result to the AP. In this case, the holding request information of the reception result may not be present, and the batch management information of the sequence number is added to the data and transmitted as described later.

[0104] Figure 12 shows another example of the association sequence of the wireless communication system shown in Figure 7.

[0105] Figure 12 shows the operation sequence during association when the STA voluntarily sends the information necessary for MBO to the AP.

[0106] Steps S31 to S33 and S41 to S43 in Figure 12 perform the same processing as steps S1 to S3 and S11 to S13 in Figure 9, so their explanation is omitted.

[0107] When the STA receives a connection response and the connection with the STA is complete, in step S34, it sends an MBO information response (MBO Info. response).

[0108] As described above, the STA may voluntarily send the MBO information response. In this case as well, for example, it may be sent attached to or as part of the Capability information during the association described above.

[0109] <Example of data transmission sequence> Figure 13 shows an example of the data transmission sequence for the wireless communication system shown in Figure 7.

[0110] The data transmission shown in Figure 13 is a process that takes place after the association described above. The bidirectional arrows in Figure 13 represent the minimum time interval (SIFS) for sending BAR (Block ACK Request), a signal requesting a reception result, and BA (Block ACK), a signal indicating a reception result.

[0111] At time a1, the AP acquires the right to transmit in the first bandwidth and begins transmitting a signal using the first bandwidth. At that time, the AP retrieves the necessary data packets from a single transmission queue in the order of input, for the duration of the transmission time, and then constructs and transmits a signal consisting of the retrieved packets. The method of retrieving data packets is the same for the other bandwidths.

[0112] For example, in the first bandwidth, extraction begins with the Data#1 packet, and packets Data#1 through #3 are extracted. Then, the signals Data#1 through #3 are formed and transmitted. In response to the AP starting to transmit, the STA starts receiving the Data#1 through #3 signals using the first bandwidth at time a1.

[0113] Subsequently, at time a2, the AP acquires the right to transmit in the second band and begins transmitting signals using the second band. For example, in the second band, extraction begins with the Data#4 packet, and packets Data#4 through #6 are extracted. Then, the signals Data#4 through #6 are constructed and transmitted. In response to the AP's commencement of transmission, the STA begins receiving the Data#4 through #6 signals using the second band at time a2.

[0114] At time a3, the AP acquires the right to transmit in the third band and begins transmitting signals using the third band. For example, in the third band, extraction begins with the Data#7 packet, and packets Data#7 through #9 are extracted. Then, the signals Data#7 through #9 are constructed and transmitted. In response to the AP's commencement of transmission, the STA begins receiving the Data#7 through #9 signals using the third band at time a3.

[0115] As described above, when data is transmitted across multiple bandwidths, the data sequence numbers are managed collectively.

[0116] Furthermore, if the centralized management information for sequence numbers, which is one of the pieces of information regarding the management method, is not transmitted during association, it may be added to the signals transmitted in each band.

[0117] Furthermore, for signals in the bandwidths that started transmitting later (the second and third bandwidths in Figure 13), rather than the first bandwidth to start transmission, leading sequence information, which is information about the sequence number of the leading Data, or Data retention instruction information, which is information instructing the retention of Data regardless of the sequence number, is added. The leading sequence information or Data retention instruction information may be stored in the physical header or after a known signal that is added in the middle of the Data for synchronization.

[0118] The initial sequence information is one type of information related to the management method. When transmission using multiple bandwidths is started, the initial sequence information may be information that specifically points to the initial sequence number of the data in the bandwidth that is being transmitted first (Data#1 in the case of Figure 13), or it may be information that is a simplified version of the information that points to it.

[0119] Data retention instruction information is one type of information regarding management methods. It instructs the system to retain data even if it receives data with a sequence number smaller than the previously received packet number.

[0120] Signals in the bandwidth that started transmitting later are accompanied by either leading sequence information or data retention instruction information. The leading sequence information or data retention instruction information prevents situations where, for example, if the reception of packets of a signal that started transmitting later is completed before the packets of a signal that started transmitting earlier, the receiving side might process the data sequence starting from Data#4, omitting Data#1 through #3. Upon receiving the leading sequence information or data retention instruction information, the STA decides whether to retain or discard the data of the bandwidth that was transmitted earlier.

[0121] At time a4, AP completes the transmission of Data#4 through #6 signals using the second bandwidth. At time a4, STA completes the reception of Data#4 through #6 signals using the second bandwidth.

[0122] At time a5, AP completes the transmission of Data#1 to #3 signals using the first bandwidth. At time a5, STA completes the reception of Data#1 to #3 signals using the first bandwidth.

[0123] At time a6, AP completes the transmission of Data #7 through #9 signals using the third bandwidth. At time a6, STA completes the reception of Data #7 through #9 signals using the third bandwidth.

[0124] At time a7, after SIFS has elapsed since AP completed transmitting a signal using a specific bandwidth (the third bandwidth in the case of Figure 13), AP transmits an SN-BAR (Sequence Number BAR), which is a signal that requests the reception results (Data #1 to #9) of the data transmitted so far, divided into multiple bandwidths. The method for determining the bandwidth to which the SN-BAR is transmitted will be described later with reference to Figure 14.

[0125] The SN-BAR contains information regarding how to notify the reception result. In addition, if a signal with data retention instruction information is transmitted, data retention release information is also added. Data retention release information is one of the pieces of information regarding the management method and is information requesting the release of data retention.

[0126] After transmitting the SN-BAR, the AP waits until the SN-BAR is received in the specified bandwidth.

[0127] When the STA that has received the SN-BAR transmits the reception result (SN_BA) at time a9 after the SIFS has elapsed since the time when the SN-BAR was received, based on the notification method specified in the SN-BAR. The method of notifying the SN-BA will be described later after the description of the frame configuration. The AP receives the SN-BAR in the specified band at time a9.

[0128] <Operation of AP> FIG. 14 is a flowchart for explaining the process of determining the band in which the AP transmits the SN-BAR.

[0129] The process in FIG. 14 is started by the transmission control unit 61 of the AP, for example, after data has been transmitted using the band in which the transmission right was first acquired.

[0130] In step S71, the transmission control unit 61 determines whether the right to transmit has been acquired in any of the bands while transmitting using a plurality of bands. For example, at time a2 or time a3, the right to transmit is acquired based on the execution result of CCA (Clear Channel Assessment). If it is determined that the right to transmit has been acquired in any of the bands, the process proceeds to step S73.

[0131] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S71 that the right to transmit has not been acquired in any of the bands, the process proceeds to step S72.

[0132] In step S72, the transmission control unit 61 determines whether the transmission using any of the bands has been completed while transmitting using a plurality of bands.

[0133] For example, in the case of any time from time a4 to a6, if it is determined in step S72 that the transmission using any of the bands has been completed, the process proceeds to step S73.

[0134] Also, if it is determined in step S71 that the right to transmit has newly been acquired in the second band, the process proceeds to step S73.

[0135] In step S73, the transmission control unit 61 determines whether or not any of the following (A) to (C) applies.

[0136] (A) There is no bandwidth available to acquire transmission rights before the completion of transmission of all packets currently being transmitted. (B) The sum of the packet lengths (packet durations) transmitted since the start of transmission across multiple bandwidths > A pre-configured threshold for the total transmission time across multiple bandwidths, the sum of the transmission time > A pre-configured threshold for the elapsed time, or the number of communication opportunities obtained during transmission across multiple bandwidths > A pre-configured threshold for the number of communication opportunities obtained. (C) The amount of data to be transmitted in the transmission queue is less than or equal to a predetermined threshold (including 0).

[0137] Note that the total packet length in (B) may be the sum of all packet lengths transmitted across multiple bandwidths, or the sum of packet lengths from the beginning of the packet that was started to the end of the packet that was completed (time a1 to time a6).

[0138] If it is determined in step S73 that none of (A) through (C) apply, the process returns to step S71 and the subsequent processing is repeated. Also, if it is determined in step S72 that transmission using any bandwidth has not been completed, the process returns to step S71 and the subsequent processing is repeated.

[0139] If it is determined in step S73 that any of (A) through (C) applies, the process proceeds to step S74.

[0140] Here, if (A) above applies, it corresponds to a situation where transmission rights cannot be acquired in addition to the bandwidth currently being transmitted. If (B) applies, it corresponds to a situation where the pre-set transmission time threshold has been exceeded. If (C) applies, it corresponds to a situation where there is no more data to transmit.

[0141] In step S74, the transmission control unit 61 selects the bandwidth to which the SN-BAR will be transmitted. The transmission control unit 61 selects the bandwidth with the latest packet transmission completion time among the bandwidths currently transmitting packets as the bandwidth to which the SN-BAR will be transmitted. After selecting the bandwidth, the process of determining the bandwidth to which the SN-BAR will be transmitted is completed.

[0142] Based on the conditions (A) to (C) above, the SN-BAR transmission determination can be performed at the timing when transmission using multiple bandwidths is completed. In this manner, the transmission control unit 61 selects the bandwidth to which the SN-BAR will be transmitted, and transmits the SN-BAR when transmission on the selected bandwidth is completed.

[0143] <Other examples of data transmission sequences> Figure 15 shows another example of the data transmission sequence of the wireless communication system shown in Figure 7.

[0144] Figure 15 shows a modified version of the case in Figure 13. In Figure 15, an example is shown in which the sequence number management information, which was attached to the Data signal, as well as the starting sequence information or Data retention instruction information, are attached to the SN-BAR of the previous communication and transmitted.

[0145] Furthermore, if the previous communication was conducted using a conventional communication method, the sequence number management information, as well as the starting sequence information or data retention instruction information, may be added to the BAR instead of the SN-BAR. The BAR is a signal used in conventional communication methods to request the data reception result.

[0146] Prior to time b1, the AP begins transmitting signals using the first to third bandwidths, similar to the case in Figure 13, and completes transmission using each bandwidth in the order of the second bandwidth, the first bandwidth, and the third bandwidth.

[0147] At time b1, after completing the transmission of the signal using the third bandwidth, the AP transmits a BAR or SN-BAR using the third bandwidth. In the example in Figure 15, the BAR or SN-BAR includes information for managing sequence numbers in the next communication, as well as initial sequence information or data retention instruction information. In the case of an SN-BAR, it also includes information on how to notify the reception result, and, if necessary, data retention release information.

[0148] After time b2, when the SN-BAR transmission is complete, the AP waits until the SN-BAR is received in the third band.

[0149] Upon receiving an SN-BAR, the STA sends a reception result (BA or SN_BA) at time b3, which is after SIFS has elapsed since time b2, when it completed receiving the SN-BAR, based on the notification method specified in the SN-BAR.

[0150] After the reception of BA or SN-BA is completed using the third band, at time b4, the AP initiates the next communication. That is, at time b4, the AP acquires the right to transmit on the first band and begins transmitting Data#1 to #3 signals using the first band. At time b5, the AP acquires the right to transmit on the second band and begins transmitting Data#4 to #6 signals using the second band.

[0151] In the case of Figure 15, the signal containing this data does not have the sequence number management information, nor the leading sequence information or data retention instruction information attached to it.

[0152] At time b7, AP completes the transmission of Data#4 through #6 signals using the second bandwidth. At time b7, STA completes the reception of Data#4 through #6 signals using the second bandwidth.

[0153] At time b8, AP completes the transmission of the signals of Data#1 to #3 using the first band. At time b8, STA completes the reception of the signals of Data#1 to #3 using the first band.

[0154] At time b9, AP completes the transmission of the signals of Data#7 to #9 using the third band. At time b9, STA completes the reception of the signals of Data#7 to #9 using the third band.

[0155] At time a12 after the SIFS has elapsed since AP completed the transmission of the signal being transmitted using a certain specific band (in the case of FIG. 15, the third band), AP transmits SN-BAR.

[0156] SN-BAR contains information regarding the notification method of the reception result and information requesting the release of Data retention if necessary. In addition, information for the batch management of the sequence numbers in the next communication, as well as the head sequence information or Data retention instruction information, is also added.

[0157] After the time b11 when the transmission of SN-BAR is completed, AP waits until SN-BA is received in the third band. The STA that has received SN-BAR transmits SN_BA at time b12 after the SIFS has elapsed from the time b11 when the reception of SN-BAR is completed, based on the notification method specified in SN-BAR.

[0158] <Example of the format configuration used for the Data signal> FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the format configuration used for the Data signal in the sequence at the time of data transmission in FIG. 13.

[0159] In FIG. 16, an example of the case where information is stored in the physical header is shown.

[0160] The Data signal is composed of a physical header (Phy Header) arranged at the head and DATA.

[0161] The Phy Header may include L-STF (Legacy Short Training Field), L-LTF (Legacy Long Training Field), L-SIG (Legacy Signal Field), STF, LTF, and SIGNAL.

[0162] In SIGNAL, Multi-band SN, First SN, and Data Hold are stored as information.

[0163] Multi-band SN is batch management information for sequence numbers. Multi-band SN may include information indicating a period during which transmission in multiple bands is planned.

[0164] First SN is start sequence information.

[0165] Data Hold is hold request information for received data and reception results.

[0166] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing another format configuration example used for the Data signal.

[0167] In FIG. 17, an example is shown in which information is stored in the middle of DATA following the physical header (PLCP).

[0168] The Data signal is composed of a physical header (PLCP) arranged at the beginning and DATA. In the middle of DATA, known signals added for synchronization are arranged. Information is stored after the known signals.

[0169] In the known signals, Multi-band SN, First SN, and Data Hold similar to the case of FIG. 15 are stored as information.

[0170] <Format Configuration Example of <SN-BAR Frame> Figure 18 shows an example of the SN-BAR frame format configuration in the data transmission sequence shown in Figures 13 and 15.

[0171] The frame in Figure 18 consists of the following fields: Frame Control, Duration, RA, TA, SN-BA Control, SN-BA Information, and FCS. This frame is contained within the MPDU (MAC Protocol Data Unit), which is a data unit in the MAC layer.

[0172] The SN-BA Information fields store SN-BA info, Multiband SN, First SN, Data Hold, and Data Release.

[0173] SN-BA info is information regarding the method of notifying the reception results. For example, reception results (bitmaps) for multiple bandwidths may be transmitted aggregated, transmitted as separate SN-BAs, or transmitted in a combination of these two methods.

[0174] SN-BA info consists of Aggregate, Num.of SN-BA, Delayed, Index, and Order.

[0175] The Aggregate parameter indicates whether or not to concatenate bitmaps.

[0176] Num.of SN-BA is information indicating the number of SN-BAs to send as a reply.

[0177] "Delayed" indicates whether or not there is an SN-BA being transmitted in another band during a transmission opportunity where transmission rights have been acquired.

[0178] The Index contains information about the specified reception result.

[0179] Order is information about the order.

[0180] Multiband SN is information for batch management of sequence numbers. First SN is information about the starting sequence. Data Hold is information for requesting the retention of received data and reception results. In the modification example of FIG. 15, Multiband SN, First SN, and Data Hold are added to the SN-BAR of the previous communication.

[0181] Data Release is information for releasing the Data hold. Data Release is added when Data Hold is being transmitted.

[0182] <Example of the format configuration of the SN-BA frame> FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of the format configuration of the SN-BA frame.

[0183] The frame of FIG. 19 is composed of fields of Frame Control, Duration, RA, TA, BA Control, BA Information, and FCS.

[0184] The field of SN-BA Control is composed of fields of BA Ack Policy, BA Type, Reserved, and TID_INFO.

[0185] In the SN-BA frame of FIG. 19, by using BA Type = 4 which was conventionally Reserved, it is shown that the type of BA is the SN-BA of the present technology.

[0186] The SN bitmap is stored in the field of BA Information. The SN bitmap is information indicating how the reception results corresponding to the SNs specified in the SN-BAR are stored. The SN bitmap is the part indicating the reception results of the SNs corresponding to the Index of the SN-BAR.

[0187] In addition, when instructed to concatenate and transmit using SN-BAR, an Aggregated SN bitmap obtained by concatenating a plurality of SN bitmaps is stored instead of the SN bitmap.

[0188] <Example of SN-BA transmission and reception> FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of SN-BA transmission and reception specified by SN-BAR.

[0189] In the example of FIG. 20, SN-BA in the case where reception results of a plurality of bands are concatenated and transmitted is shown. [[ID=十一]]

[0190] Note that since the same processing as that from time a1 to time a6 in FIG. 13 is performed for times c1 to c6 in FIG. 20, the description thereof is omitted.

[0191] At time c7 after the SIFS has elapsed since the completion of transmission of the signal transmitted using the third band, the AP transmits an SN-BAR using the third band.

[0192] After the time c8 when the transmission of the SN-BAR is completed, the AP waits until an SN-BA is received in the third band. The STA that has received the SN-BAR transmits an SN-BA based on the notification method specified by the SN-BAR at time c9 after the SIFS has elapsed since time c8 when the reception of the SN-BAR was completed. The AP receives the SN-BA in the third band at time c9.

[0193] The SN-BA in FIG. 20 is an SN-BA in which the reception results of Data #1 to #3, Data #4 to #6, and Data #7 to #9 are concatenated. In the case of FIG. 20, since all reception results are transmitted in a batch, the efficiency is good.

[0194] FIG. 21 is a diagram showing another example of SN-BA transmission and reception specified by SN-BAR.

[0195] In the example of FIG. 21, SN-BA in the case where reception results of a plurality of bands are transmitted individually is shown.

[0196] Note that the same processing as that performed at times d1 to d6 in Figure 21 is performed as at times a1 to a6 in Figure 13, so the explanation is omitted.

[0197] At time d7, after SIFS has elapsed since the completion of transmitting the signal using the third bandwidth, the AP transmits the SN-BAR using the third bandwidth.

[0198] After time d8, when the transmission of the SN-BAR is completed, the AP waits in the third band until SN-BA01 to SN-BA03 are received. Upon receiving the SN-BAR, the STA transmits SN-BA01, consisting of the received Data#1 to #3, using the third band at time d9, after SIFS has elapsed since time d8, when the reception of the SN-BAR was completed, based on the notification method specified in the SN-BAR. At time d9, the AP receives SN-BA01 in the third band.

[0199] At time d11, after SIFS has elapsed since time d10 when SN-BA01 was completed, STA transmits SN-BA02, consisting of the received data #4 to #6, using the third band based on the notification method specified in SN-BAR. AP receives SN-BA02 in the third band at time d11.

[0200] At time d13, after SIFS has elapsed since time d12 when SN-BA02 was completed, STA transmits SN-BA03, consisting of the reception results of Data#7 to #9, using the third band based on the notification method specified in SN-BAR. AP receives SN-BA03 in the third band at time d13.

[0201] As described above, in the case of Figure 21, SN-BA01 to SN-BA03 are transmitted to the AP at equal intervals according to a predetermined time interval (SIFS). In the case of Figure 21, it is compatible with conventional BAs.

[0202] Figure 22 shows yet another example of transmission and reception of an SN-BA specified by an SN-BAR.

[0203] In the example in Figure 22, the SN-BA is shown when the reception result from one of the multiple frequency bands is transmitted during another transmission opportunity for which transmission rights have been acquired.

[0204] Note that the same processing as that performed at times e1 to e6 in Figure 22 is performed as at times a1 to a6 in Figure 13, so the explanation is omitted.

[0205] At time e7, after SIFS has elapsed since the completion of transmitting the signal using the third bandwidth, the AP transmits the SN-BAR using the third bandwidth.

[0206] After time e8, when the transmission of the SN-BAR is completed, the AP waits until the SN-BA is received in the third band. Upon receiving the SN-BAR, the STA transmits the SN-BA11 using the third band at time e9, which is after SIFS has elapsed since time e8, based on the notification method specified in the SN-BAR. At time e9, the AP receives the SN-BA11 in the third band.

[0207] SN-BA11 is an SN-BA formed by concatenating the received results of Data#1 through #3 and Data#4 through #6.

[0208] After time e10, when the transmission of SN-BA11 is completed, STA acquires another transmission right at time e11 and transmits SN-BA12, consisting of the received data #7 through #9, using a third band based on the notification method specified in SN-BAAR. AP receives SN-BA12 in the third band at time e11.

[0209] As described above, in the case of Figure 22, SN-BA12 is transmitted to the AP at a different transmission opportunity than SN-BA11. In this case, since transmission can be performed while monitoring communication efficiency, the received results can be reliably transmitted.

[0210] Furthermore, since the MPDU reception results are transmitted using a specific bandwidth, APs and STAs can transmit data across multiple bandwidths using a single MAC layer process, as before. Additionally, retransmission can be performed in the correct sequence number order.

[0211] <4. Second Embodiment> Next, as a second embodiment, we will describe a case in which the signal transmitting data includes information requesting a reception result corresponding to a sequence number of data managed collectively across multiple bandwidths. Similar to the first embodiment, the sequence number management is performed, for example, at the MAC layer, but it may also be performed at a layer higher than the MAC layer. Note that the same processing as in the first embodiment will be omitted from the explanation. The processing during association in the second embodiment is the same as the processing in the first embodiment.

[0212] <Example of data transmission sequence> Figure 23 shows another example of the data transmission sequence of the wireless communication system shown in Figure 7.

[0213] The data transmission shown in Figure 23 is a process that takes place after the association described above. The bidirectional arrows in Figure 23 represent the minimum time interval (SIFS) when transmitting BARs and BAs.

[0214] In Figure 23, information requesting the reception result corresponding to the sequence number of data managed collectively across multiple bandwidths is included in the signal transmitting the data. Therefore, it is necessary to decide what information to add when the transmission right is acquired and the packet is sent.

[0215] Therefore, the information included in the signal that transmits data includes more information regarding the interpretation of the ACK policy, the request for reception results, and the method of notifying reception results compared to when transmitting the SN-BAR shown in Figure 13.

[0216] Information regarding the reinterpretation of the ACK policy is a type of management information that, when transmitting using multiple bandwidths, reinterprets the ACK policy of the first packet received as "No ACK". Reinterpreting as "No ACK" means that the STA does not return an ACK.

[0217] The purpose of reinterpreting the ACK is to ensure that the ACK is returned in the bandwidth that last completed transmission across multiple bandwidths, rather than in the bandwidth set during transmission on a single bandwidth. In other words, even if the ACK policy is reinterpreted as No ACK by the information that reinterprets the ACK policy, an ACK will be returned for all data at the end, using the notification method indicated by the information regarding the notification method for the reception result. Therefore, the information to be reinterpreted does not have to be No ACK; it could be information requesting that the ACK be returned in the bandwidth that last completed transmission across multiple bandwidths. The other information is the same as the information described in the first embodiment.

[0218] At time f1, the AP acquires transmission rights in the first bandwidth and begins transmitting signals Data#1 through #3 using the first bandwidth. The AP adds a unified sequence number management information to signals Data#1 through #3 before transmitting. Note that when transmission rights are first acquired, the ACK policy for single transmission is set because it has not yet been decided whether to transmit using multiple bandwidths.

[0219] At time f2, AP acquires transmission rights in the second bandwidth and begins transmitting signals Data#4 through #6 using the second bandwidth. AP transmits signals Data#4 through #6 with the addition of information on the centralized management of sequence numbers, information on reinterpreting the ACK policy, a request for reception results, and information on how to notify reception results.

[0220] Here, the information regarding the notification method for the reception result includes information specifying the band to which the SN-BA is transmitted. For example, at time f2, since no transmission has yet been performed using Band 3, Band 1 is specified as the band to which the SN-BA is transmitted.

[0221] At time f3, the AP acquires the right to transmit in the third band and begins transmitting signals Data#7 through #9 using the third band. The AP adds information on the centralized management of sequence numbers, information on reinterpreting the ACK policy, a request for reception results, and information on how to notify reception results to signals Data#7 through #9 before transmitting them. At this time, Band3 is specified in the information that specifies the band to which the SN-BA is transmitted.

[0222] At time f4, AP completes the transmission of Data#4 through #6 signals using the second bandwidth. At time f4, STA completes the reception of Data#4 through #6 signals using the second bandwidth.

[0223] At time f5, AP completes the transmission of Data#1 to #3 signals using the first bandwidth. At time f5, STA completes the reception of Data#1 to #3 signals using the first bandwidth.

[0224] At time f6, AP completes the transmission of Data #7 through #9 signals using the third bandwidth. At time f6, STA completes the reception of Data #7 through #9 signals using the third bandwidth.

[0225] Here, the signals Data#4 through #6 and Data#7 through #9 in Figure 23 are transmitted with information added to revise the ACK policy. Therefore, the STA reinterprets the ACK policy of the previously received packets Data#1 through #6 to No ACK based on the information that revises the ACK policy.

[0226] In addition, regarding the information specifying the band for transmitting SN-BA, which is added to the signals of Data#7 to #9 where transmission completion comes last, Band3 is specified. The STA transmits the reception result (SN_BA) using the third band at time f7 after the expiration of the SIFS from the time when the signals of Data#7 to #9 are received, based on the specified notification method.

[0227] To do this, the AP needs to determine, as described later, what information to add at the time of acquiring the transmission right.

[0228] <AP Operation> Figure 24 is a flowchart for explaining the process of determining the band for transmitting SN-BA.

[0229] The process in Figure 24 is, for example, a process that starts when a new transmission right can be acquired in any of the bands while transmitting data using a plurality of bands after data has been transmitted using the band where the transmission right was first acquired. For example, for the signal that first acquires the transmission right and transmits data, since it has not yet been determined to transmit using a plurality of bands, an ACK Policy for single transmission, etc. is set.

[0230] In step S101, the transmission control unit 61 of the AP starts generating packets to be transmitted in a plurality of bands.

[0231] In step S102, the transmission control unit 61 of the AP adds the information described below to the generated packets. Then the process is completed.

[0232] The information added to the packet is any of the following combinations. · Information for batch management of sequence numbers · Information for rewriting the ACK policy · First sequence information or information for requesting retention of reception results · Information regarding requests for reception results and notification methods Furthermore, the information regarding the notification method includes information specifying the bandwidth to which the SN-BA is transmitted. Furthermore, if information regarding the request for reception results and notification methods is sent multiple times, only the differential information may be sent.

[0233] Note that while there was a branch in the flowchart in Figure 14 mentioned above, in the case of Figure 24, unlike Figure 14, no branch occurs. This is because even if there is bandwidth available for acquiring the next transmission right, transmission may not be possible due to CSMA-CA (Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Avoidance).

[0234] Therefore, when the AP transmits using multiple bandwidths, it always needs information regarding requests and notifications of reception results. On the other hand, the STA updates the information regarding requests and notifications of reception results with new information each time it receives it.

[0235] <Example of data transmission sequence> Figure 25 shows another example of the sequence in Figure 23.

[0236] Figure 25 shows the sequence in which the bandwidth for returning the SN-BA changes due to waiting for transmission by CSMA-CA.

[0237] At time g1, AP acquires the right to transmit in the first bandwidth and begins transmitting signals Data#1 through #3 using the first bandwidth. AP transmits signals Data#1 through #3 with the added information for managing the sequence number.

[0238] At time g2, AP acquires transmission rights in the second bandwidth and begins transmitting signals Data#4 through #6 using the second bandwidth. AP transmits signals Data#4 through #6 with the addition of information on the centralized management of sequence numbers, information on reinterpreting the ACK policy, a request for reception results, and information on how to notify reception results.

[0239] Here, the information regarding the notification method of the reception result includes information specifying the band for transmitting SN-BA. For example, at time g2, since transmission using Band3 has not been performed yet, Band1 is specified in the information specifying the band for transmitting SN-BA.

[0240] At time g3, the AP acquires the transmission right using the third band, but it is not transmitted by CSMA-CA-based transmission.

[0241] At time g4, the AP completes the transmission of the signals of Data#4 to #6 using the second band. At time g4, the STA completes the reception of the signals of Data#4 to #6 using the second band.

[0242] At time g5, the AP completes the transmission of the signals of Data#1 to #3 using the first band. At time g5, the STA completes the reception of the signals of Data#1 to #3 using the first band.

[0243] Here, for example, for the signal that first acquires the transmission right and transmits data, since it has not been determined yet to transmit using a plurality of bands, an ACK Policy for single transmission, etc. is set. Therefore, the ACK Policy for the signals of Data#1 to #3 is rewritten with information for rewriting the ACK policy added to the signals of Data#4 to #6. Also, in the information specifying the band for transmitting SN-BA added to the signals of Data#4 to #6, Band1 is specified. Therefore, the AP waits for the reception result (SN_BA) based on the specified notification method using the first band. The STA transmits the reception result (SN_BA) based on the specified notification method using the first band at time g6 after the SIFS has elapsed from the time when the signals of Data#1 to #3 are received.

[0244] <Example of the format configuration used for the Data signal> FIG. 26 is a diagram showing an example of the format configuration used for the Data signal.

[0245] Figure 26 shows an example of how information is stored in a Mac frame (DATA). Parts similar to those in the first embodiment are omitted from the explanation. The same applies to subsequent figures.

[0246] The Data signal, like the Data signal in Figure 11, is composed of a Phy Header and DATA, which are placed at the beginning.

[0247] The Data signal, similar to the Data signal in Figure 11, includes Frame Control, Duration / ID, Address1, Address2, Address3, Sequence Control, Address4, QoS Control, FCS Control, Frame Body, and FCS.

[0248] The QoS Control in Figure 26 stores the ACK policy disregard flag, which is information that reinterprets the ACK policy. The ACK policy disregard flag can be a single bit of information like a flag, or it can be information that specifically indicates another bandwidth where packets to be reinterpreted as No ACK exist.

[0249] The Frame Body further stores the SN-BA Info, Multiband SN, First SN, Data Hold, and Data Release fields, similar to the SN-BA Information field in the SN-BAR frame shown in Figure 18.

[0250] The SN-BA Info has an added Band compared to the SN-BA Info of the SN-BAR frame in Figure 18.

[0251] The Band field stores information specifying the bandwidth on which the SN-BA is transmitted, as this is related to how the reception results are notified.

[0252] FIG. 27 is a diagram showing another format configuration example used for the Data signal.

[0253] In FIG. 27, an example in the case where information is stored in the physical header is shown.

[0254] In SIGNAL, as information, Multi-band SN, First SN, Data Hold, an ACK policy disregard flag which is information for rewriting the ACK policy, SN-BA Info, and Data Release are stored. SN-BA Info includes the same information as the SN-BA info in FIG. 26.

[0255] FIG. 28 is a diagram showing another format configuration example used for the Data signal.

[0256] In FIG. 28, an example in the case where information is stored in the middle of DATA following the physical header (PLCP) is shown.

[0257] The Data signal is composed of a physical header (PLCP) arranged at the head and DATA. In the middle of DATA, a known signal added for synchronization is arranged. Information is stored behind the known signal.

[0258] In the known signal, as information, Multi-band SN, First SN, Data Hold, an ACK policy disregard flag which is information for rewriting the ACK policy, SN-BA Info, and Data Release, which are the same as in the case of FIG. 27, are stored.

[0259] <Example of the sequence at the time of data transmission> FIG. 29 is a diagram showing another example of the sequence in FIG. 23.

[0260] In FIG. 29, when transmitting in a plurality of bands, a sequence is shown for determining a signal to be transmitted in a subsequent band in accordance with the reception completion timing of a signal to which information requesting reception results of a series of sequences is added.

[0261] At time h1, the AP acquires the transmission right in the first band and starts transmitting signals of Data#1 to #3 using the first band. The AP transmits by adding batch management information of sequence numbers to the signals of Data#1 to #3.

[0262] At time h2, the AP acquires the transmission right in the second band and starts transmitting signals of Data#4 to #6 using the second band. The AP transmits by adding batch management information of sequence numbers, information for rewriting the ACK policy, reception result request, and information regarding the reception result notification method to the signals of Data#4 to #6. At this time, the information specifying the band for transmitting SN-BA included in the information regarding the reception result notification method designates Band2.

[0263] At time h3, the AP acquires the transmission right using the third band and starts transmitting signals of Data#7 to #9 using the third band. The AP transmits by adding batch management information of sequence numbers to the signals of Data#7 to #9. At this time, the lengths of the signals of Data#7 to #9 are determined in accordance with the lengths of the signals of Data#4 to #6 that request reception results.

[0264] By doing so, the wireless communication system in the second embodiment can be operated according to the same specifications as the first embodiment. For example, the AP can determine a packet to which information is to be added according to the determination in step S73 of FIG. 14. Then, when the AP acquires the transmission right after adding the packet, it can be specified to additionally transmit the reception result to a preset band. Thereby, in the wireless communication system in the second embodiment as well, it becomes possible to perform the operation of transmitting the reception result of data of a series of sequences in the band where the communication was finally completed.

[0265] In addition, after the band for transmitting the ACK is determined, if the AP acquires the communication right in another band, it can additionally transmit data.

[0266] At time h4, the AP completes the transmission of the signals of Data#1 to #3 using the first band. At time h4, the STA completes the reception of the signals of Data#1 to #3 using the first band.

[0267] At time h5, the AP completes the transmission of the signals of Data#4 to #6 using the second band and the transmission of the signals of Data#7 to #9 using the third band. At time h5, the STA completes the reception of the signals of Data#4 to #6 using the second band and the reception of the signals of Data#7 to #9 using the third band.

[0268] In the case of FIG. 29, in the information specifying the band for transmitting the SN-BA, which is added to the signals of Data#4 to #6 for which the reception result is requested, Band2 is specified. The AP waits for the reception result (SN_BA) using the second band based on the specified notification method. At time h6 after the elapse of SIFS from the time when the STA receives the signals of Data#4 to #6, the STA transmits the reception result (SN_BA) using the second band based on the specified notification method.

[0269] <Example of SN-BA transmission and reception> FIG. 30 is a diagram showing an example of an SN-BA transmitted based on a specified notification method.

[0270] In the example of FIG. 30, an SN-BA in the case where the reception results of a plurality of bands are concatenated and transmitted is shown.

[0271] Note that since the same processing as that of times f1 to f6 in FIG. 23 is performed for times i1 to i6 in FIG. 30, the description thereof is omitted.

[0272] At time i6, AP transmits Data#7 through #9 signals with the addition of information on the centralized management of sequence numbers, information on reinterpreting the ACK policy, a request for reception results, and information on how to notify reception results. At this time, Band3 is specified in the information that specifies the bandwidth on which the SN-BA is transmitted.

[0273] At time i7, after SIFS has elapsed since the STA finished receiving the signal being transmitted using the third band, the STA transmits an SN-BA using the third band based on the specified notification method. The AP receives the SN-BA in the third band at time i7.

[0274] The SN-BA in Figure 30 is an SN-BA formed by concatenating the received results of Data#1 to #3, Data#4 to #6, and Data#7 to #9. Since all received results are transmitted at once, it is efficient.

[0275] Figure 31 shows another example of an SN-BA sent based on a specified notification method.

[0276] In the example shown in Figure 31, the SN-BA is displayed when reception results from multiple frequency bands are transmitted individually.

[0277] Note that the same processing is performed at times j1 to j6 in Figure 31 as at times f1 to f6 in Figure 23, so the explanation is omitted.

[0278] At time j6, AP transmits Data#7 through #9 signals with the addition of information on the centralized management of sequence numbers, information on reinterpreting the ACK policy, a request for reception results, and information on how to notify reception results. At this time, Band3 is specified in the information that specifies the bandwidth on which the SN-BA is transmitted.

[0279] At time j7 after the SIFS has elapsed since the reception of the signal transmitted using the third band has been completed, the STA transmits, using the third band, an SN-BA21 consisting of the reception results of Data#1 to #3 based on the specified notification method. The AP receives the SN-BA21 in the third band at time j7.

[0280] At time j9 after the SIFS has elapsed since time j8 when the transmission of SN-BA01 has been completed, the STA transmits, using the third band, an SN-BA22 consisting of the reception results of Data#4 to #6 based on the specified notification method. The AP receives the SN-BA22 in the third band at time j8. <管理>

[0281] At time j11 after the SIFS has elapsed since time j10 when the transmission of SN-BA02 has been completed, the STA transmits, using the third band, an SN-BA23 consisting of the reception results of Data#7 to #9 based on the specified notification method. The AP receives the SN-BA23 in the third band at time j10.

[0282] As described above, in the case of FIG. 31, SN-BA31 to SN-BA33 are transmitted toward the AP at equal intervals with a preset time interval (SIFS). In the case of FIG. 31, it is compatible with the conventional BA.

[0283] FIG. 32 is a diagram showing still another example of an SN-BA transmitted based on the specified notification method.

[0284] In the example of FIG. 32, an SN-BA in the case where the reception result of any one of the reception results of a plurality of bands is transmitted in another transmission opportunity that has acquired another transmission right is shown.

[0285] Note that since the same processing as that of times f1 to f6 in FIG. 23 is performed for times k1 to k6 in FIG. 32, the description thereof is omitted.

[0286] At time k6, AP transmits Data#7 through #9 signals with the addition of information on the centralized management of sequence numbers, information on reinterpreting the ACK policy, a request for reception results, and information on how to notify reception results. At this time, Band3 is specified in the information that specifies the bandwidth on which the SN-BA is transmitted.

[0287] At time k7, after SIFS has elapsed since the completion of receiving the signal being transmitted using the third band, the STA transmits SN-BA31, consisting of the received data #1 to #3, using the third band, based on the specified notification method. The AP receives SN-BA31 in the third band at time k7.

[0288] SN_BA41 is an SN-BA formed by concatenating the received results of Data#1 through #3 and Data#4 through #6.

[0289] At time k9, after SIFS has elapsed since time k8 when SN-BA31 was completed, STA transmits SN-BA32, consisting of the received data #7 through #9, using the third band based on the notification method specified in SN-BAAR. AP receives SN-BA32 in the third band at time k9.

[0290] As described above, in the case of Figure 32, SN-BA32 is transmitted to the AP at a different transmission opportunity than SN-BA31. In this case, since transmission can be performed while monitoring communication efficiency, the received results can be reliably transmitted.

[0291] Furthermore, since the MPDU reception results are transmitted using a specific bandwidth, APs and STAs can transmit data across multiple bandwidths using a single MAC layer process, as before. Additionally, retransmission can be performed in the correct sequence number order.

[0292] <5. Others> <Capability Information field> Figure 33 shows an example of a Capability Information field.

[0293] In the first and second embodiments, Capability information related to the management method described above may be included in the Capability Information field within the Management frame.

[0294] Figure 33 shows an example of a Capability Information field within a Management frame.

[0295] The SN MBO field of the Framebody within the Management frame is one piece of information regarding the management method of the received results, and it is information used to query whether or not to perform the operations described above in the first and second embodiments. The SN MBO field may be a single bit of information, such as a flag, or it may be divided into multiple bits of information for each function.

[0296] As described above with reference to the first and second embodiments, in this technology, when the AP transmits using multiple bandwidths, it centrally manages the sequence numbers of the data (MPDU) and transmits information regarding the method of notifying the reception result and information regarding the management method.

[0297] For example, information regarding the management method includes at least one piece of information such as the aforementioned batch management information for sequence numbers, information requesting retention of received results, information on whether or not to retain received results, initial sequence information, data retention instruction information, data retention release information, information on reinterpreting the ACK policy, and information on whether or not to perform the operation of this technology.

[0298] Furthermore, it prevents the data loss that occurred when sequence numbers were not managed centrally.

[0299] <Example of computer configuration> The series of processes described above can be executed by hardware or by software. When the series of processes are executed by software, the programs that make up the software are installed from a program storage medium onto a computer that is built into dedicated hardware, or a general-purpose personal computer.

[0300] Figure 34 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a computer that executes the series of processes described above by a program.

[0301] The CPU (Central Processing Unit) 301, ROM (Read Only Memory) 302, and RAM (Random Access Memory) 303 are interconnected by a bus 304.

[0302] An input / output interface 305 is further connected to the bus 304. An input unit 306 consisting of a keyboard, mouse, etc., and an output unit 307 consisting of a display, speakers, etc. are connected to the input / output interface 305. In addition, a storage unit 308 consisting of a hard disk, non-volatile memory, etc., a communication unit 309 consisting of a network interface, etc., and a drive 310 that drives removable media 311 are connected to the input / output interface 305.

[0303] In a computer configured as described above, the CPU 301 performs the aforementioned series of processes by loading, for example, a program stored in the memory unit 308 into the RAM 303 via the input / output interface 305 and the bus 304 and executing it.

[0304] The program executed by the CPU 301 is recorded on removable media 311, for example, or provided via a wired or wireless transmission medium such as a local area network, the internet, or digital broadcasting, and installed in the storage unit 308.

[0305] The programs executed by the computer may be programs that are processed chronologically in the order described herein, or they may be programs that are processed in parallel or at necessary times, such as when a call is made.

[0306] In this specification, a system refers to a collection of multiple components (devices, modules (parts), etc.), regardless of whether all components are located in the same enclosure. Therefore, multiple devices housed in separate enclosures and connected via a network, and a single device containing multiple modules within a single enclosure, are both considered systems.

[0307] Furthermore, the effects described herein are merely illustrative and not limiting, and other effects may also occur.

[0308] The embodiments of this technology are not limited to those described above, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of this technology.

[0309] For example, this technology can be configured as cloud computing, where a single function is shared and processed collaboratively by multiple devices via a network.

[0310] Furthermore, each step described in the flowchart above can be performed by a single device, or it can be divided and performed by multiple devices.

[0311] Furthermore, if a single step includes multiple processes, those processes can be executed by a single device or shared among multiple devices.

[0312] <Examples of configuration combinations> This technology can also be configured as follows: (1) In communication using multiple bandwidths, the system includes a transmission control unit that centrally manages the sequence numbers of data transmitted using each bandwidth, and controls the transmission of information regarding the method of notifying the reception results of the data and information regarding the management method. Wireless communication device. (2) The transmission control unit controls the transmission of information indicating that the sequence numbers of the data are managed and transmitted collectively, as information related to the management method. The wireless communication device described in (1) above. (3) The transmission control unit controls the transmission of information regarding the sequence number of the first data in the communication as information related to the management method. The wireless communication device described in (1) or (2) above. (4) The transmission control unit controls the transmission of information instructing the retention of the data and information releasing the retention of the data, respectively, as information related to the management method. The wireless communication device described in (1) or (2) above. (5) The transmission control unit controls the transmission of retention request information, which requests the retention of the reception results in an amount corresponding to the number of the multiple bandwidths, as information related to the management method. A wireless communication device as described in any of (1) to (4) above. (6) The transmission control unit determines the amount of data to be transmitted in the communication based on the information including the response to the retention request information. The wireless communication device described in (5) above. (7) The transmission control unit controls the transmission of information regarding the notification method along with the request for the reception result. A wireless communication device as described in any of (1) to (6) above. (8) The transmission control unit controls the transmission control to transmit a signal containing information about the notification method using the bandwidth among the plurality of bandwidths that has the longest delay in data transmission completion. A wireless communication device as described in any of (1) to (7) above. (9) The transmission control unit adds information regarding the notification method to the data. A wireless communication device as described in any of (1) to (7) above. (10) The transmission control unit controls the transmission of information related to the management method, specifically information for reinterpreting the ACK Policy of the data that was first received in the communication. The wireless communication device described in (9) above. (11) The transmission control unit sets the length of the data to be transmitted in other bandwidths to match the length of the data, which includes information about the notification method. The wireless communication device described in (9) or (10) above. (12) Wireless communication device, In communication using multiple bandwidths, the sequence numbers of data transmitted using each bandwidth are managed collectively, and the transmission of information regarding the notification method of the data reception result and information regarding the management method is controlled. Wireless communication method. (13) In communication using multiple bandwidths, a receiving control unit controls the reception of information regarding the method of notifying the reception result of the transmitted data, and information regarding the management method, where the sequence numbers of the data transmitted using each bandwidth are managed collectively. A transmission control unit controls the transmission of the received result using the bandwidth specified in the information regarding the notification method. A wireless communication device equipped with the following features. (14) Based on the information received as information regarding the management method, which indicates that the data is managed and transmitted collectively, the receiving control unit transitions to a state in which reception is possible using the multiple bandwidths. The wireless communication device described in (13) above. (15) The receiving control unit determines whether to retain or discard the data based on the information regarding the sequence number of the first data in the communication, which was received as information regarding the management method. The wireless communication device described in (13) or (14) above. (16) The receiving control unit determines whether to retain or discard the data based on the information it receives as information related to the management method, which instructs the retention of the data and the information it releases from retaining the data. The wireless communication device described in (13) or (14) above. (17) Based on the retention request information received as information regarding the management method, which requests the retention of a quantity of the reception results corresponding to the number of the plurality of bandwidths, the transmission control unit causes the unit to transmit a response indicating that retention is possible, or information regarding the quantity that can be retained. A wireless communication device as described in any of (13) to (16) above. (18) The receiving control unit reinterprets the ACK policy of the received data based on the information received as information regarding the management method, which is for reinterpreting the ACK policy of the data that was first received in the communication as No ACK. A wireless communication device as described in any of (13) to (17) above. (19) The transmission control unit, in response to a request for the received result along with information regarding the notification method, causes the received result to transmit. A wireless communication device as described in any of (13) to (18) above. (20) Wireless communication device, In communication using multiple bandwidths, the sequence numbers of the data transmitted using each bandwidth are managed collectively, and information regarding the method of notifying the reception result of the transmitted data and information regarding the management method are received. The information regarding the notification method is transmitted using the bandwidth from which the reception result was received. Wireless communication method. [Explanation of symbols]

[0313] 11 Wireless communication device, 12 Wireless communication device, 31 Control unit, 32 Power supply unit, 31, 33-1 to 33-3 Communication unit, 50 Storage unit, 51 Data processing unit, 52 Wireless control unit, 53 Modulation / demodulation unit, 54 Signal processing unit, 55 Channel estimation unit, 56, 56-1 to 56-N Wireless I / F unit, 57, 57-1 to 57-N Amplifier unit, 58-1 to 58-N Antenna, 61 Transmission control unit, 62 Reception control unit

Claims

1. A control unit that manages the sequence number of the first data transmitted using the first bandwidth and the sequence number of the second data transmitted using the second bandwidth, and controls the transmission of information regarding the method of notifying the reception results of the first data and the second data, and information regarding the management method, A first transmission control unit that controls the transmission of the first data using the first bandwidth, A second transmission control unit that controls the transmission of the second data using the second bandwidth, Equipped with, The control unit manages the sequence numbers of the first data and the second data together, and controls the first transmission control unit and the second transmission control unit so that the transmission of the second data starts after the transmission of the first data starts, and the transmission of the first data is completed simultaneously with the transmission of the second data. Communication device.

2. The control unit controls the transmission of information indicating that the sequence numbers of the first data and the sequence numbers of the second data are managed and transmitted together, as information related to the management method. The communication device according to claim 1.

3. The control unit controls the transmission of information regarding the sequence number of the first data in the transmission using the first bandwidth and the second bandwidth, as information related to the management method. The communication device according to claim 1.

4. The control unit controls the transmission of information regarding the amount of the received result to be retained, as information regarding the management method. The communication device according to claim 1.

5. The control unit determines the amount of the first data and the amount of the second data to transmit based on the information including the response regarding the amount. The communication device according to claim 4.

6. The control unit controls the transmission of information regarding the notification method along with the request for the reception result. The communication device according to claim 1.

7. The control unit adds information regarding the notification method to the first data and the second data. The communication device according to claim 1.

8. The first data and the second data each include a plurality of MPDUs The communication device according to claim 1.

9. The control unit performs control to receive a reception result from another communication device for at least one MPDU included in the first data or the second data. The communication device according to claim 8.

10. The control unit performs control to receive reception results from another communication device for at least one MPDU included in the first data and at least one MPDU included in the second data. The communication device according to claim 9.

11. The control unit performs control to receive the reception result using at least one of the first bandwidth and the second bandwidth. The communication device according to claim 9.

12. A control unit that controls the reception of information regarding a method for notifying the reception results of the first data and the second data, and information regarding a management method, which are transmitted together, with the sequence number of the first data transmitted using the first bandwidth and the sequence number of the second data transmitted using the second bandwidth being managed and transmitted together. A first receiving control unit that controls the reception of the first data using the first bandwidth, A second receiving control unit that controls the reception of the second data using the second bandwidth, Equipped with, The control unit controls the first receiving control unit and the second receiving control unit to receive the first data transmitted using the first bandwidth and the second data transmitted using the second bandwidth, which is transmitted after the start of transmission of the first data and is completed simultaneously with the completion of transmission of the first data. Communication device.

13. Based on the information received as information regarding the management method, which indicates that the first data and the second data are managed and transmitted together, the control unit transitions to a state where reception is possible using the first bandwidth and the second bandwidth. The communication device according to claim 12.

14. The control unit determines whether to retain or discard the first data or the second data based on the information regarding the sequence number of the first data in the transmission using the first and second bandwidths, which is received as information regarding the management method. The communication device according to claim 12.

15. The control unit controls the transmission of a response indicating that retention is possible, or information regarding the amount that can be retained, based on the information regarding the amount of the received result that is requested to be retained, which was received as information regarding the management method. The communication device according to claim 12.

16. The control unit controls the transmission of the reception result in response to a request for the reception result received along with information regarding the notification method. The communication device according to claim 12.

17. The first data and the second data each include a plurality of MPDUs The communication device according to claim 12.

18. The control unit performs control to transmit the reception result to another communication device for at least one MPDU included in the first data or the second data. The communication device according to claim 17.

19. The control unit performs control to transmit the reception result to another communication device with respect to at least one MPDU included in the first data and at least one MPDU included in the second data. The communication device according to claim 18.

20. The control unit performs control to transmit the reception result using at least one of the first bandwidth and the second bandwidth. The communication device according to claim 18.

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