Link selection method and device, and computer-readable storage medium

Abstract

A link selection method and apparatus, and a computer-readable storage medium are disclosed. An STA transmits a link selection instruction to an AP. The STA is associated with the AP, and a plurality of links exist between the STA and the AP. The plurality of links exist separately on a plurality of different channels. The link selection instruction indicates a target link corresponding to a target service type. The target link includes at least one of the plurality of links. In this application, the STA can select an appropriate link from the plurality of links for the transmission of corresponding service data for different service types, so that different QoS guarantees are obtained for services of different service types, thereby increasing the reliability of service execution in a WLAN.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] This application was filed on June 5, 2020, and claims priority to Chinese patent application No. 202010505315.7, titled "LINK SELECTION METHOD AND APPARATUS, AND COMPUTER-READABLE STORAGE MEDIUM", the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present application relates to the field of wireless communication technology, and in particular, to a link selection method and apparatus, and a computer-readable storage medium. Background Technology

[0003] A wireless local area network (WLAN) includes access points (APs) and stations (STAs). An AP is a bridge between a WLAN and another type of network (e.g., a wired network). A STA is a wireless terminal configured with WLAN access capabilities, such as a smartphone or a laptop.

[0004] Currently, when multiple links exist between an AP and a STA, the problem of how to select an appropriate link from the multiple links between the AP and the STA for transmitting service data needs to be solved.

[0005] The present application provides a link selection method and apparatus, and a computer-readable storage medium.

[0006] According to a first embodiment, a link selection method is provided and applied to a wireless local area network. The method comprises: an STA transmits a link selection indication to an AP. The STA is associated with an AP, and multiple links exist between the STA and the AP. The multiple links exist separately on multiple different channels. The link selection indication indicates a target link corresponding to a target service type. The target link includes at least one of the multiple links.

[0007] In the present application, the STA can select an appropriate link from a plurality of links for the transmission of corresponding service data for different service types, so that different QoS guarantees are obtained for services of different service types, thereby increasing the reliability of service execution in the WLAN.

[0008] Optionally, after transmitting a link selection instruction to the AP, the STA receives a scheduling frame transmitted by the AP on the target link. Then, on the target link, the STA transmits service data of the target service type to the AP based on the scheduling frame.

[0009] In the present application, the AP increases the reliability of service execution in the WLAN by scheduling services of corresponding service types on a link selected by the STA, thereby ensuring that different QoS guarantees are obtained for services of different service types.

[0010] Optionally, the scheduling frame includes instructions for the target service type.

[0011] Optionally, the STA receives a link selection request sent by the AP, where the link selection request requests the STA to send a link selection instruction.

[0012] In the present application, the STA manually performs link selection as triggered by a link selection request transmitted by the AP.

[0013] Optionally, the link selection request includes the service type identity of the target service type and / or the link identity of the referral link.

[0014] In the present application, the service type identity of the target service type is included in the link selection request, thereby triggering the AP to perform link selection for the target service type. The link identity of the recommended link is included in the link selection request, thereby instructing the STA to perform link selection on the recommended link or to prioritize the selection of the recommended link. This can improve the reliability of link selection and further improve the reliability of transmitting service data to the AP by the STA.

[0015] Optionally, the link pick request is within a buffer status report poll (BSRP) frame sent by the AP to the STA.

[0016] In the present application, the link selection request is included within a BSRP frame, that is, the BSRP frame is reused without transmitting the link selection request separately. This saves transmission resources.

[0017] Optionally, link selection instructions are in the buffer status report (BSR) field transmitted by the STA to the AP.

[0018] In this application, the link selection instruction is included in the BSR field, that is, the BSR field is reused without transmitting the link selection instruction separately. This saves transmission resources.

[0019] Optionally, the target link is determined based on link quality information of a plurality of links and the target service type, and the link quality information includes at least one of bandwidth, transmission delay, or packet loss rate.

[0020] According to a second embodiment, a link selection method is provided and applied to a wireless local area network. The method comprises: an AP receives a link selection instruction transmitted by an STA. The STA is associated with the AP. There are multiple links between the STA and the AP. The multiple links exist separately on multiple different channels. The link selection instruction indicates a target link corresponding to a target service type. The target link includes at least one of the multiple links.

[0021] Optionally, after receiving a link selection instruction transmitted by the STA, the AP transmits a scheduling frame to the STA on the target link.

[0022] Optionally, the scheduling frame includes instructions for the target service type.

[0023] Optionally, AP sends a link selection request to STA, where the link selection request requests STA to send a link selection instruction.

[0024] Optionally, the link selection request includes the service type identity of the target service type and / or the link identity of the referral link.

[0025] Optionally, the link select request is within a BSRP frame sent by the AP to the STA.

[0026] Optionally, the link selection instruction is in the BSR field transmitted by the STA to the AP.

[0027] According to a third embodiment, a link selection device is provided. The device includes a plurality of functional modules. The plurality of functional modules interact with each other to implement a method according to a first embodiment and implementations of the first embodiment. The plurality of functional modules may be implemented based on software, hardware, or a combination of software and hardware, and the plurality of functional modules may be randomly combined or divided based on a specific implementation.

[0028] According to a fourth embodiment, a link selection device is provided. The device includes a plurality of functional modules. The plurality of functional modules interact with each other to implement the methods of the second embodiment and the implementations of the second embodiment. The plurality of functional modules may be implemented based on software, hardware, or a combination of software and hardware, and the plurality of functional modules may be randomly combined or divided based on a specific implementation.

[0029] According to the fifth embodiment, an STA comprising a processor and a transceiver is provided. The transceiver operates on a plurality of different channels.

[0030] The transceiver is configured to perform receiving and transmitting actions on one or more channels under the control of a processor, thereby implementing a link selection method according to any implementation of the first embodiment.

[0031] Optionally, the transceiver includes a plurality of radio frequency circuits, and the plurality of radio frequency circuits operate separately on a plurality of different channels.

[0032] According to the sixth embodiment, an AP comprising a processor and a transceiver is provided. The transceiver operates on a plurality of different channels.

[0033] The transceiver is configured to perform receiving and transmitting actions on one or more channels under the control of a processor, thereby implementing a link selection method according to any implementation of the second embodiment.

[0034] Optionally, the transceiver includes a plurality of radio frequency circuits, and the plurality of radio frequency circuits operate separately on a plurality of different channels.

[0035] According to the seventh embodiment, a computer-readable storage medium is provided. The computer-readable storage medium stores instructions. When the instructions are executed by a processor of a computer device, a link selection method according to the first embodiment or the second embodiment is implemented.

[0036] According to the eighth embodiment, a WLAN comprising a STA and an AP is provided. The STA is associated with the AP. There are multiple links between the STA and the AP. The multiple links exist separately on multiple different channels. The STA includes a link selection device according to the third embodiment or is a STA according to the fifth embodiment. The AP includes a link selection device according to the fourth embodiment or is an AP according to the sixth embodiment.

[0037] According to the ninth aspect, a chip is provided. The chip includes programmable logic circuits and / or program instructions. When the chip is executed, the first aspect and implementations of the first aspect or the second aspect and implementations of the second aspect are implemented.

[0038] The beneficial effects caused by the technical solutions provided in this application include at least the following.

[0039] In the present application, multiple links exist between the STA and the AP. The STA can select an appropriate link from the multiple links for the transmission of corresponding service data for different service types, and then the AP schedules the service of the corresponding service type on the link selected by the STA. In this way, different QoS guarantees are obtained for services of different service types, thereby increasing the reliability of service execution in the WLAN. In addition, the service type identity of the target service type is included in a link selection request transmitted by the AP to the STA, thereby triggering the AP to perform link selection for the target service type. The link identity of the recommended link is included in the link selection request, instructing the STA to perform link selection on the recommended link or to select the recommended link preferentially. This can improve link selection reliability and further improve the reliability of transmitting service data from the STA to the AP. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0040] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a WLAN according to one embodiment of the present application. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a connection between an AP and a STA according to one embodiment of the present application. FIG. 3 is a schematic flowchart of a link selection method according to one embodiment of the present application. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a trigger frame as defined in the IEEE 802.11ax draft. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a trigger-dependent common information field according to one embodiment of the present application. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of the structure of another trigger-dependent common information field according to one embodiment of the present application. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a TLM information field according to one embodiment of the present application. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of another TLM information field according to one embodiment of the present application. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an extended BSR field according to one embodiment of the present application. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a link selection device according to one embodiment of the present application. FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of the structure of another link selection device according to one embodiment of the present application. FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a link selection device according to one embodiment of the present application. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0041] To further clarify the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the present application, embodiments of the present application are described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0042] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a WLAN according to one embodiment of the present application. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the WLAN includes an AP (101) and STAs (102A to 102C) (collectively referred to as STAs (102)). The STA (102) is associated with the AP (101). Being associated with the STA (102) means that the STA (102) is wirelessly connected to the AP (101), that is, the STA (102) can communicate wirelessly with the AP (101). The AP (101) provides a WLAN protocol-based wireless access service to the STA (102). The number of APs and STAs in the drawings is merely for illustrative purposes and is not intended to limit the link selection system provided in the embodiments of the present application.

[0043] A multi-link network architecture is provided in the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11be draft (which is the next-generation protocol of the IEEE 802.11ax draft). Both the AP and the STA include multiple radio frequency units (RFUs). A radio frequency unit is an electronic component of a radio signal between transceiver devices and may also be referred to as a radio frequency circuit or a radio frequency module. Different RFUs operate on different frequency bands or on different channels of the same frequency band. One RFU of the AP can separately establish connections to the RFUs of multiple STAs, and one RFU of the STA can establish a connection to one RFU of the AP. Connections can be established between the multiple RFUs of the AP and the multiple RFUs of the STA, that is, multiple links can be established between the AP and the STA on multiple channels. In this embodiment of the present application, multiple links exist between the AP (101) and the STA (102). Multiple links exist separately on multiple different channels. A channel is a full WLAN channel, for example, a 20 megahertz (MHz) WLAN channel, or a WLAN channel with a wider bandwidth (for example, 40 MHz, 80 MHz, or 160 MHz). If the channel bandwidth is greater than 20 MHz, the channel may include a main channel and a sub-channel.

[0044] The ranges of radio frequencies used by the WLAN are the 2.4 gigahertz (GHz) frequency band and the 5 GHz frequency band. The 2.4 GHz frequency band includes 2.4 GHz to 2.4835 GHz, and the 5 GHz frequency band includes 5.150 GHz to 5.350 GHz and 5.725 GHz to 5.850 GHz. Multiple links between the AP (101) and the STA (102) exist separately on multiple different channels within the 2.4 GHz frequency band and / or the 5 GHz frequency band. For example, there are two links between the AP (101) and the STA (102): one link is in the 2.4 GHz frequency band and one link is in the 5 GHz frequency band; There are two links in the 2.4 GHz frequency band, where one link is on channel 1 in the 2.4 GHz frequency band and the other link is on channel 11 in the 2.4 GHz frequency band; or there are two links on different channels in the 5 GHz frequency band.

[0045] For example, FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a connection between an AP and a STA according to one embodiment of the present application. As shown in FIG. 2, the AP (101) includes an RFU (11) operating in a 2.4 GHz frequency band and an RFU (12) operating in a 5 GHz frequency band. The STA (102) includes an RFU (21) operating in a 2.4 GHz frequency band and an RFU (22) operating in a 5 GHz frequency band. The RFU (11) in the AP (101) is connected to the RFU (21) in the STA (102), and the RFU (12) in the AP (101) is connected to the RFU (22) in the STA (102). That is, between the AP and the STA, there exists Link 1 in the 2.4 GHz frequency band and Link 2 in the 5 GHz frequency band.

[0046] FIG. 3 is a schematic flowchart of a link selection method according to one embodiment of the present application. The method is applied to the WLAN illustrated in FIG. 1. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the method comprises the following steps.

[0047] Step 301: The AP sends a link selection request to the STA.

[0048] A link selection request requests the STA to transmit link selection instructions. Optionally, the link selection request includes the service type identity of the target service type and / or the link identity of the referral link. When the link selection request includes the service type identity of the target service type, the link selection request requests the STA to transmit link selection instructions for the target service type. That is, the link selection request requests the STA to perform link selection for the target service type. When the link selection request includes the link identity of the referral link, the link selection request instructs the STA to perform link selection on the referral link or to prioritize the referral link. When the link selection request includes the service type identity of the target service type and the link identity of the referral link, the link selection request requests the STA to perform link selection on the referral link for the transmission of service data of the target service type or to prioritize the referral link for the transmission of service data of the target service type.

[0049] Optionally, AP determines at least one recommended link from multiple links based on the actual load of multiple links between AP and STA and / or the quantity of STAs associated with multiple links. For example, AP may use a less busy link and / or a link associated with fewer STAs across multiple links as the recommended link. The STA associated with a link is the STA associated with AP through the link.

[0050] In this embodiment of the present application, the AP triggers the STA to perform link selection by transmitting a link selection request to the STA. The service type identity of the target service type is included in the link selection request, thereby triggering the AP to trigger the STA to perform link selection for the target service type. The link identity of the recommended link is included in the link selection request, thereby instructing the STA to perform link selection on the recommended link or to prioritize the selection of the recommended link. This can improve the reliability of link selection and further improve the reliability of transmitting service data to the AP by the STA.

[0051] Services in a WLAN are classified into four access categories (ACs) in descending order of priority: voice (VO), video (VI), best effort (BE), and background (BK). Each AC has two traffic identities (TIDs). Thus, the four ACs have eight TIDs. In wired networks, the eight TIDs correspond to eight differentiated services code point (DSCP) priorities of quality of service (QoS). In wireless networks, the eight TIDs are used to distinguish service flow types.

[0052] Optionally, the service type identity in this embodiment of the application is indicated as TID and / or AC.

[0053] Step 302: The STA sends a link selection instruction to the AP.

[0054] The link selection instruction indicates a target link corresponding to a target service type. That is, the link selection instruction indicates that the STA intends to transmit service data of the target service type to the AP via the target link. The target link includes at least one of a plurality of links between the STA and the AP.

[0055] Optionally, the target link is determined based on link quality information of multiple links between the STA and the AP and the target service type. The link quality information includes at least one of bandwidth, transmit delay, or packet loss rate. The STA obtains link quality information of multiple links between the STA and the AP and then determines, from the multiple links, the target link for transmitting service data of the target service type based on the link quality information of the multiple links and the target service type. Alternatively, the target link may be determined based on other factors. For example, considering that electromagnetic wave penetration in the 2.4 GHz frequency band is stronger than electromagnetic wave penetration in the 5 GHz frequency band, a channel within the 2.4 GHz frequency band may be selected for the transmission of a high-priority service when having nearly identical link quality. The following describes how the STA performs link selection for the target service type using an example where the link quality information includes bandwidth and / or transmit delay.

[0056] In a first possible implementation, the STA determines a target link from a plurality of links based on the bandwidths of the plurality of links between the STA and the AP and the bandwidth required corresponding to the target service type. The bandwidth required corresponding to the service type may be determined based on the buffer size of the service data of the service type in the STA. For example, a larger buffer of the service data of the service type in the STA indicates that the bandwidth required corresponding to the service type is greater. Optionally, the STA determines a transmission link corresponding to each service type by an average allocation method based on the buffer size of the service data of each service type in the STA. There may be one or more transmission links corresponding to a single service type.

[0057] For example, there are two links: Link 1 and Link 2, between the STA and the AP, and the bandwidth of Link 1 is equal to the bandwidth of Link 2. The STA includes three service types: TID0, TID1, and TID2. Assuming that the sum of the bandwidth required for TID0 and the bandwidth required for TID1 is equal to the bandwidth required for TID2, the STA decides to transmit the service data for TID0 and the service data for TID1 through Link 1 and the service data for TID2 through Link 2, or the STA decides to transmit the service data for TID0 and the service data for TID1 through Link 2 and the service data for TID2 through Link 1.

[0058] In this embodiment of the present application, the STA determines a transmission link corresponding to a service type in the first possible implementation described above. This achieves load balancing between all links between the STA and the AP.

[0059] In a second possible implementation, the STA determines a target link from a plurality of links based on the transmission delays of the plurality of links between the STA and the AP and the service priority of the target service type. Optionally, the STA assigns a service type with a higher service priority to a link having a shorter transmission delay for the transmission of the corresponding service data.

[0060] For example, there are two links between the STA and the AP: Link 1 and Link 2. The historical transmission delay of Link 1 is shorter than the historical transmission delay of Link 2. The STA includes three service types, TID0, TID1, and TID2, in descending order of service priority. Because the historical transmission delay of Link 1 is shorter than the historical transmission delay of Link 2, the STA decides to transmit the service data for TID0 over Link 1, and to transmit the service data for TID1 and TID2 over Link 1 or Link 2.

[0061] In this embodiment of the present application, the STA determines a transmission link corresponding to a service type in the second possible implementation described above. This ensures a certain degree of reliability in transmitting high-priority service data.

[0062] In a third possible implementation, the STA determines a target link from a plurality of links based on the bandwidths of the plurality of links between the STA and the AP, the bandwidth required corresponding to the target service type, the transmission delays of the plurality of links, and the service priority of the target service type.

[0063] Referring to examples in the first possible implementation and the second possible implementation, the STA may decide to transmit service data of TID0 and service data of TID1 through Link 1, and transmit service data of TID2 through Link 2.

[0064] In this embodiment of the present application, after receiving a link selection request transmitted by the AP, the STA may transmit a link selection instruction to the AP. That is, the STA passively performs the link selection as triggered by the link selection request transmitted by the AP. Alternatively, the STA may actively perform the link selection. For example, when the STA has service data to be transmitted for a new service type, the STA transmits a link selection instruction for the new service type to the AP. In this case, step 301 may not be performed.

[0065] Optionally, after receiving a link selection instruction transmitted by the STA, the AP performs the following step 303.

[0066] Step 303: The AP sends a scheduling frame to the STA on the target link.

[0067] Optionally, the scheduling frame includes instructions for the target service type. That is, the scheduling frame is intended to schedule the STA to transmit service data of the target service type to the AP on the target link. Alternatively, the scheduling frame may not include instructions for the target service type. In this case, the scheduling frame is intended to schedule the STA to transmit all of the STA's uplink service data to the AP on the target link. Optionally, when multiple target links exist, the AP transmits the scheduling frame to the STA on each target link.

[0068] The scheduling frame may be a trigger frame as defined in the IEEE 802.11ax draft. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a trigger frame as defined in the IEEE 802.11ax draft. As shown in FIG. 4, the trigger frame includes a frame control field, a duration field, a receiver address (RA) field, a transmitter address (TA) field, a common info field, a user info list field, a padding field (optional), a Frame Check Sequence (FCS) field, etc. The frame control field, the duration field, the RA field, and the TA field are frame headers. The common info field includes a trigger type. Descriptions of the fields within the trigger frame are not described one by one in this embodiment of the present application.

[0069] As defined in the IEEE 802.11ax draft, the value range for the trigger type in the common information field is 0 to 15. Currently, trigger types with values ​​from 0 to 7 are defined in the IEEE 802.11ax draft, but trigger types with values ​​from 8 to 15 are not defined. For example, when the trigger type value is 0, a trigger frame is defined to trigger the STA to transmit an uplink physical layer protocol data unit (PPDU). When the trigger type value is 1, the trigger frame is defined as a beamforming report poll (BFRP) frame. When the trigger type value is 4, the trigger frame is defined as a BSRP frame. When the trigger type value is 6, the trigger frame is defined as a bandwidth query report poll (BQRP) frame. In this embodiment of the present application, the scheduling frame transmitted by the AP to the STA on the target link may be a trigger frame with a trigger type value of 0, 1, 4, or 6, or a newly defined trigger frame with a trigger type value greater than 7.

[0070] Optionally, after receiving a scheduling frame transmitted by the AP on the target link, the STA performs the following step 304.

[0071] Step 304: The STA transmits service data of the target service type to the AP on the target link.

[0072] Optionally, after receiving a scheduling frame, the STA first determines the channel resources on the target link and allocated to the STA based on the scheduling frame, and then transmits service data of the target service type to the AP on the channel resources.

[0073] In this embodiment of the present application, there are multiple links between the STA and the AP. The STA can select an appropriate link from the multiple links for the transmission of corresponding service data for different service types, and then the AP schedules the service of the corresponding service type on the link selected by the STA. In this way, different QoS guarantees are obtained for services of different service types, thereby increasing the reliability of service execution in the WLAN.

[0074] Optionally, the link select request is contained within a BSRP frame transmitted by the AP to the STA. In this embodiment of the application, the link select request is included within a BSRP frame, that is, the BSRP frame is reused without transmitting the link select request separately. This saves transmission resources. Alternatively, the link select request may be contained within a custom trigger frame and transmitted separately by the AP to the STA. The trigger type within the custom trigger frame may be any value from 8 to 15.

[0075] Optionally, the link selection request includes the service type identity and / or link identity of the recommended link. The common information field of the trigger frame defined in the IEEE 802.11ax draft includes a variable trigger-dependent common info field. In this embodiment of the application, the service type identity and / or link identity of the recommended link may be included in the trigger-dependent common info field within the common information field of the BSRP frame or a custom trigger frame. For example, when the link selection request indicates a correspondence between at least one group of service types and the recommended link, one or more mapping information fields (hereinafter referred to as TLM information) between the service type identity and the link identity may be defined within the trigger-dependent common info field.

[0076] Optionally, FIGS. 5 and FIGS. 6 are each schematic diagrams of the structure of a trigger-dependent common information field according to one embodiment of the present application. As illustrated in FIGS. 5 and FIGS. 6, the trigger-dependent common information field includes a quantity indicator field and a TLM information field. The quantity indicator field indicates the quantity of service types within the TLM information field for which link selection is requested. Alternatively, the trigger-dependent common information field may not include a quantity indicator field. The TLM information field includes a service type field and a link indicator field. The service type field indicates the service type for which link selection is requested. The link indicator field indicates a recommended link. The length (in bits) of the link indicator field is greater than or equal to the quantity of links between the STA and the AP. Each link between the STA and the AP corresponds to 1 bit in the link indicator field.

[0077] For example, there are four links between STA and AP: links 1 through 4. The length of the link indicator field is 4 bits, which correspond to links 1 through 4 sequentially from left to right. When the value of a bit is 1, it indicates that the link corresponding to that bit is a recommended link. For example, if the value of the link indicator field is "0110", it indicates that links 2 and 3 are recommended links; or if the value of the link indicator field is "1000", it indicates that link 1 is a recommended link.

[0078] Optionally, refer to FIG. 5. The TLM information field includes one service type field and n link indicator fields. Refer to FIG. 6. The TLM information field includes n service type fields and n link indicator fields. n is the quantity of service types for which link selection is requested. n is a positive integer less than or equal to the total quantity of service types.

[0079] Optionally, the service type identity is denoted as TID. The maximum value of n is 8, indicating that there are up to 8 service types. The length of the service type field is 8 bits, and each bit corresponds to a single service priority. For example, the 8 bits of the service type field correspond to 8 service types with service priorities 0 through 7 sequentially from left to right. Alternatively, the service type identity is denoted as AC. The maximum value of n is 4, indicating that there are up to 4 service types. The length of the service type field is 4 bits, and each bit corresponds to an access category of a single priority. For example, the 4 bits of the service type field correspond to access categories of 4 priorities BE, BK, VI, and VO sequentially from left to right.

[0080] In this embodiment of the present application, the value of the bit in the service type field may be defined as 1, which indicates that a link selection is requested for the service type corresponding to that bit.

[0081] In the TLM information field illustrated in FIG. 5, the value of one or more bits in the service type field may be 1, and the number of link indicator fields is equal to the number of bits in the service type field that have a value of 1. From left to right, the link indicator field i corresponds to bit i in the service type field that has a value of 1 from left to right, where i is a positive integer.

[0082] For example, the length of the service type field is 8 bits. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a TLM information field according to one embodiment of the present application. As shown in FIG. 7, the TLM information field includes a service type field and link indicator fields 1 through 3. If the value of the service type field is "01001010", it indicates that a link selection is requested for service types with service priorities of 1, 4, and 6. If the value of the link indicator field 1 is "1000", it indicates that the recommended link corresponding to a service type with a service priority of 1 is Link 1. If the value of the link indicator field 2 is "0110", it indicates that the recommended links corresponding to a service type with a service priority of 4 are Link 2 and Link 3. If the value of the link indicator field 3 is "0011", it indicates that the recommended links corresponding to a service type with a service priority of 6 are Link 3 or Link 4.

[0083] In the TLM information field illustrated in Fig. 6, the value of the bit in each service type field is 1, and the link indication field indicates a recommended link corresponding to the service type requesting link selection, where the service type is indicated by the service type field on the left side of the TLM information field.

[0084] For example, the length of the service type field is 8 bits. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of another TLM information field according to one embodiment of the present application. As illustrated in FIG. 8, the TLM information field includes service type fields 1 to 3 and link indicator fields 1 to 3. If the value of service type field 1 is "01000000", it indicates that a link selection is requested for a service type with a service priority of 1. If the value of link indicator field 1 is "1000", it indicates that the recommended link corresponding to the service type with a service priority of 1 is Link 1. If the value of service type field 2 is "00001000", it indicates that a link selection is requested for a service type with a service priority of 4. If the value of link indicator field 2 is "0110", it indicates that the recommended links corresponding to the service type with a service priority of 4 are Link 2 and Link 3. If the value of the service type field 3 is "00000010", it indicates that a link selection is requested for a service type with a service priority of 6. If the value of the link indication field 3 is "0011", it indicates that the recommended links corresponding to the service type with a service priority of 6 are Link 3 and Link 4.

[0085] In this embodiment of the present application, when it is necessary for the AP to request the STA to perform link selection for a plurality of service types, the AP transmits a plurality of link selection requests to the STA, wherein each link selection request requests the STA to perform link selection for one service type; or the AP transmits a single link selection request to the STA, wherein the link selection request requests the STA to perform link selection for a plurality of service types. The format of the link selection request may be as illustrated in FIG. 5 or FIG. 6. Alternatively, a plurality of common information fields may be extended within a trigger frame, and a trigger-dependent common information field within each common information field carries a request to perform link selection for one service type.

[0086] Optionally, the link select instruction is in the BSR field transmitted by the STA to the AP. The BSR field may be a field within a null frame or a data frame. In this embodiment of the application, the link select instruction is included in the BSR field, that is, the BSR field is reused without transmitting the link select instruction separately. This saves transmission resources.

[0087] In this embodiment of the present application, the link indication field is extended from the BSR field. By combining the access category indication (ACI) bitmap and Delta TID within the BSR field, the link indication field provides an indication for link selection for the STA.

[0088] For example, FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an extended BSR field according to one embodiment of the present application. As illustrated in FIG. 9, the BSR field includes an ACI bitmap field, a delta TID field, an ACI high field, a scaling factor field, a queue size high field (indicating the data traffic of the AC indicated by the ACI high parameter), a queue size all field (indicating the data quantity of all ACs indicated by the ACI bitmap parameter), and a link indication field. For the structure and definition of the link indication field, refer to the descriptions regarding the link indication field within the TLM information field. Descriptions of other fields within the BSR field are not described one by one in this embodiment of the present application.

[0089] Alternatively, the link selection instruction may be included within a custom frame and transmitted separately to the AP by the STA. For the format of the link selection instruction within the custom frame, refer to the format of the TLM information field illustrated in FIG. 5 or FIG. 6. Details are not described in this embodiment of the application.

[0090] The sequence of steps of the link selection method provided in these embodiments of the present application may be appropriately adjusted, or the steps may be correspondingly added or deleted as needed. Any modification method readily derived by a person skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the present application will fall within the scope of protection of the present application. Accordingly, details are not described.

[0091] In conclusion, in the link selection method provided in this embodiment of the present application, multiple links exist between the STA and the AP. The STA can select an appropriate link from the multiple links for the transmission of corresponding service data for different service types, and then the AP schedules the service of the corresponding service type on the link selected by the STA. In this way, different QoS guarantees are obtained for services of different service types, thereby increasing the reliability of service execution in the WLAN. In addition, the service type identity of the target service type is included in the link selection request transmitted by the AP to the STA, thereby triggering the AP to perform link selection for the target service type. The link identity of the recommended link is included in the link selection request, instructing the STA to perform link selection on the recommended link or to prioritize the selection of the recommended link. This can improve link selection reliability and further improve the reliability of transmitting service data from the STA to the AP.

[0092] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a link selection device according to one embodiment of the present application. The device may be used in a STA (102) within a WLAN shown in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 10, the device (100) comprises,

[0093] A transmission module (1001) configured to transmit a link selection instruction to an AP— wherein the STA is associated with the AP, and there are multiple links between the STA and the AP, and the multiple links exist separately on multiple different channels, and the link selection instruction indicates a target link corresponding to a target service type, and the target link includes at least one of the multiple links.

[0094] Optionally, refer to FIG. 10. The device (100) additionally includes a receiving module (1002).

[0095] Optionally, the receiving module (1002) is configured to receive a scheduling frame transmitted by the AP on the target link. The transmitting module (1001) is further configured to transmit service data of the target service type to the AP on the target link based on the scheduling frame.

[0096] Optionally, the scheduling frame includes instructions for the target service type.

[0097] Optionally, the receiving module (1002) is configured to receive a link selection request transmitted by the AP, wherein the link selection request requests the STA to transmit a link selection instruction.

[0098] Optionally, the link selection request includes the service type identity of the target service type and / or the link identity of the referral link.

[0099] Optionally, the link select request is within a BSRP frame sent by the AP to the STA.

[0100] Optionally, the link selection instruction is in the BSR field transmitted by the STA to the AP.

[0101] Optionally, the target link is determined based on link quality information of a plurality of links and the target service type, and the link quality information includes at least one of bandwidth, transmission delay, or packet loss rate.

[0102] In conclusion, in the link selection device provided in this embodiment of the present application, there are multiple links between the STA and the AP. The STA can select an appropriate link from the multiple links for the transmission of corresponding service data for different service types, and then the AP schedules the service of the corresponding service type on the link selected by the STA. In this way, different QoS guarantees are obtained for services of different service types, thereby increasing the reliability of service execution in the WLAN. In addition, the service type identity of the target service type is included in the link selection request transmitted by the AP to the STA, thereby triggering the AP to perform link selection for the target service type. The link identity of the recommended link is included in the link selection request, instructing the STA to perform link selection on the recommended link or to select the recommended link preferentially. This can improve link selection reliability and further improve the reliability of transmitting service data from the STA to the AP.

[0103] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of the structure of another link selection device according to one embodiment of the present application. The device may be used in an AP (101) within a WLAN shown in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 11, the device (110) comprises,

[0104] A receiving module (1101) configured to receive a link selection instruction transmitted by an STA—the STA is associated with an AP, and there are multiple links between the STA and the AP, and the multiple links exist separately on multiple different channels, and the link selection instruction indicates a target link corresponding to a target service type, and the target link includes at least one of the multiple links.

[0105] Optionally, refer to FIG. 11. The device (100) additionally includes a transmission module (1102).

[0106] Optionally, the transmission module (1102) is configured to transmit a scheduling frame to the STA on the target link.

[0107] Optionally, the scheduling frame includes instructions for the target service type.

[0108] Optionally, the transmission module (1102) is configured to transmit a link selection request to the STA, wherein the link selection request requests the STA to transmit a link selection instruction.

[0109] Optionally, the link selection request includes the service type identity of the target service type and / or the link identity of the referral link.

[0110] Optionally, the link select request is within a BSRP frame sent by the AP to the STA.

[0111] Optionally, the link selection instruction is in the BSR field transmitted by the STA to the AP.

[0112] In conclusion, in the link selection device provided in this embodiment of the present application, there are multiple links between the STA and the AP. The STA can select an appropriate link from the multiple links for the transmission of corresponding service data for different service types, and then the AP schedules the service of the corresponding service type on the link selected by the STA. In this way, different QoS guarantees are obtained for services of different service types, thereby increasing the reliability of service execution in the WLAN. In addition, the service type identity of the target service type is included in the link selection request transmitted by the AP to the STA, thereby triggering the AP to perform link selection for the target service type. The link identity of the recommended link is included in the link selection request, instructing the STA to perform link selection on the recommended link or to select the recommended link preferentially. This can improve link selection reliability and further improve the reliability of transmitting service data from the STA to the AP.

[0113] For the device in the aforementioned embodiment, specific ways of executing operations by each module are described in detail in the embodiments relating to the method. Details are not described herein.

[0114] One embodiment of the present application provides a STA comprising a processor and a transceiver. The transceiver operates on a plurality of different channels. The transceiver is configured to perform receiving and transmitting actions on one or more channels under the control of the processor, thereby implementing the actions performed by the STA in the aforementioned method embodiments. Optionally, the transceiver comprises a plurality of radio frequency circuits, and the plurality of radio frequency circuits operate separately on a plurality of different channels.

[0115] One embodiment of the present application provides an AP comprising a processor and a transceiver. The transceiver operates on a plurality of different channels. The transceiver is configured to perform receiving and transmitting actions on one or more channels under the control of the processor, thereby implementing the actions performed by the AP in the aforementioned method embodiments. Optionally, the transceiver comprises a plurality of radio frequency circuits, and the plurality of radio frequency circuits operate separately on a plurality of different channels.

[0116] For example, FIG. 12 is a block diagram of a link selection device according to one embodiment of the present application. The device may be a STA or an AP. As illustrated in FIG. 12, the device (120) includes a processor (1201) and a transceiver (1202). The transceiver (1202) operates on a plurality of different channels.

[0117] The transceiver (1202) is configured to perform receiving and transmitting actions on one or more channels under the control of the processor (1201), thereby implementing the actions performed by the AP or STA in the aforementioned method embodiments.

[0118] Optionally, the transceiver (1202) includes a plurality of radio frequency circuits, and the plurality of radio frequency circuits operate separately on a plurality of different channels. For example, refer to FIG. 2. The transceiver of the AP (101) includes an RFU (11) and an RFU (12), and the RFU (11) and the RFU (12) operate on different channels. The transceiver of the STA (102) includes an RFU (21) and an RFU (22), and the RFU (21) and the RFU (22) operate on different channels.

[0119] Optionally, the device (120) further includes a memory (1203), a communication bus (1204), and a communication interface (1205).

[0120] Memory (1203) is configured to store a computer program, wherein the computer program includes program instructions.

[0121] The processor (1201) is configured to call a computer program stored in memory (1203) and controls the transceiver (1202) to perform receiving and transmitting actions. The processor (1201) includes one or more processing cores, and the processor (1201) executes various functional applications and performs data processing by executing the computer program.

[0122] Optionally, memory (1203) may store an operating system and an application program unit for at least one function. The operating system may be an operating system such as Real Time eXecutive (RTX), LINUX, UNIX, WINDOWS, or OS X.

[0123] There may be multiple communication interfaces (1205) for communication with other devices. For example, in this embodiment of the present application, the communication interface (1205) of the STA may be configured to transmit a link selection instruction to the AP.

[0124] The transceiver (1202), memory (1203), and communication interface (1205) are each connected to the processor (1201) via a communication bus (1204).

[0125] One embodiment of the present application further provides a computer-readable storage medium. The computer-readable storage medium stores instructions. When the instructions are executed by a processor of a computer device, actions performed by the AP or STA in the above-described method embodiments are implemented.

[0126] A person skilled in the art will understand that all or part of the steps of the embodiments may be implemented by a program that commands hardware or related hardware. The program may be stored on a computer-readable storage medium. The storage medium may be read-only memory, a magnetic disk, an optical disk, etc.

[0127] In the embodiments of this application, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third” are used merely for illustrative purposes and should not be understood as an indication or implied of relative importance. The term “at least one” refers to one or more, and “at least one group” refers to one or more groups, as follows.

[0128] The term "and / or" in this application describes only the association relationship for describing related objects and indicates that three relationships may exist. For example, A and / or B may represent the following three cases: A alone exists, both A and B exist, or B alone exists. In addition, the character " / " in this specification generally indicates an "or" relationship between related objects.

[0129] The foregoing descriptions are merely optional embodiments of the present application and are not intended to limit the present application. Any modification, equivalent substitution, or improvement made within the concept and principles of the present application will fall within the scope of protection of the present application.

Claims

Claim 1 A link selection method applicable to a wireless local area network, comprising the step of transmitting a link selection instruction to an access point (AP) by a station (STA), wherein the STA is associated with the AP, and there are multiple links between the STA and the AP, and the multiple links exist on different channels, and the link selection instruction indicates a target link corresponding to a target service type, and the target link includes at least one of the multiple links, and the STA includes two or more service types. Claim 2 A method according to claim 1, further comprising: a step of receiving a scheduling frame transmitted by the AP by the STA on the target link after the STA transmits the link selection instruction to the AP; and a step of transmitting service data of the target service type to the AP by the STA on the target link based on the scheduling frame. Claim 3 In paragraph 2, the method wherein the scheduling frame includes instructions for the target service type. Claim 4 The method of claim 1 further comprises the step of receiving a link selection request transmitted by the AP by the STA, wherein the link selection request requests the STA to transmit the link selection instruction. Claim 5 In paragraph 4, the method wherein the link selection request comprises the service type identity of the target service type and / or the link identity of the recommended link. Claim 6 In paragraph 4 or 5, the method wherein the link selection request is within a buffer status report poll (BSRP) frame transmitted by the AP to the STA. Claim 7 In claim 1, the link selection instruction is in the buffer status report (BSR) field transmitted to the AP by the STA. Claim 8 A method according to claim 1, wherein the target link is determined based on link quality information of the plurality of links and the target service type, and the link quality information includes at least one of bandwidth, transmission delay, or packet loss rate. Claim 9 A link selection method applicable to a wireless local area network, comprising the step of receiving a link selection instruction transmitted by a station (STA) by an access point (AP), wherein the STA is associated with the AP, and there are multiple links between the STA and the AP, and the multiple links exist on different channels, and the link selection instruction indicates a target link corresponding to a target service type, and the target link includes at least one of the multiple links, and the STA includes two or more service types. Claim 10 A method according to claim 9, further comprising the step of transmitting a scheduling frame to the STA by the AP on the target link after the AP receives the link selection instruction transmitted by the STA. Claim 11 In paragraph 10, the above scheduling frame is a method that includes instructions for the above target service type. Claim 12 In claim 9, the method further comprises the step of transmitting a link selection request to the STA by the AP, wherein the link selection request requests the STA to transmit the link selection instruction. Claim 13 In paragraph 12, the method wherein the link selection request comprises the service type identity of the target service type and / or the link identity of the recommended link. Claim 14 In paragraph 12 or 13, the method wherein the link selection request is within a buffer status report poll (BSRP) frame transmitted by the AP to the STA. Claim 15 In paragraph 9, the link selection instruction is a method in which the buffer status report (BSR) field transmitted to the AP by the STA. Claim 16 A link selection device used in a station (STA) within a wireless local area network, comprising a transmission module configured to transmit a link selection instruction to an access point (AP), wherein the STA is associated with the AP, and there are multiple links between the STA and the AP, and the multiple links exist on different channels, and the link selection instruction indicates a target link corresponding to a target service type, and the target link includes at least one of the multiple links, and the STA includes two or more service types. Claim 17 In claim 16, the device further comprises a receiving module configured to receive a scheduling frame transmitted by the AP on the target link; and the transmitting module further configured to transmit service data of the target service type to the AP on the target link based on the scheduling frame. Claim 18 In paragraph 17, the scheduling frame is a device that includes instructions for the target service type. Claim 19 In claim 16, the device further comprises a receiving module configured to receive a link selection request transmitted by the AP, wherein the link selection request requests the STA to transmit the link selection instruction. Claim 20 In paragraph 19, the link selection request is a device comprising the service type identity of the target service type and / or the link identity of the recommended link. Claim 21 In paragraph 19 or 20, the link selection request is a device within a buffer status report poll (BSRP) frame transmitted by the AP to the STA. Claim 22 In paragraph 16, the link selection instruction is a device in the buffer status report (BSR) field transmitted to the AP by the STA. Claim 23 In paragraph 16, the target link is determined based on link quality information of the plurality of links and the target service type, and the link quality information includes at least one of bandwidth, transmission delay, or packet loss rate. Claim 24 A link selection device used in an access point (AP) within a wireless local area network, comprising a receiving module configured to receive a link selection instruction transmitted by a station (STA), wherein the STA is associated with the AP, and there are multiple links between the STA and the AP, and the multiple links exist on different channels, and the link selection instruction indicates a target link corresponding to a target service type, and the target link includes at least one of the multiple links, and the STA includes two or more service types. Claim 25 A device according to claim 24, further comprising a transmission module configured to transmit a scheduling frame to the STA on the target link. Claim 26 In paragraph 25, the above scheduling frame is a device that includes instructions for the above target service type. Claim 27 In paragraph 24, the device further comprises a transmission module configured to transmit a link selection request to the STA, wherein the link selection request requests the STA to transmit the link selection instruction. Claim 28 In paragraph 27, the link selection request is a device comprising the service type identity of the target service type and / or the link identity of the recommended link. Claim 29 In paragraph 27 or 28, the link selection request is a device within a buffer status reporting poll (BSRP) frame transmitted by the AP to the STA. Claim 30 In paragraph 24, the link selection instruction is a device in the buffer status report (BSR) field transmitted to the AP by the STA. Claim 31 delete Claim 32 delete Claim 33 delete Claim 34 delete Claim 35 delete

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