Communication method and apparatus

Abstract

A communication method and apparatus, which are applied to the field of AMP, and which can support, for example, wireless power transfer (WPT), wireless local area networks (WLANs), or IEEE series protocols. An AMP STA receives a WPT signal from an excitation apparatus (or a first communication apparatus), and receives communication indication information from a relay apparatus (or the first communication apparatus) or an AP. The AMP STA receives an excitation signal from the excitation apparatus (or the first communication apparatus), and sends a reflection signal of the excitation signal. The method can perfect the process of interaction between an AMP STA and other communication apparatuses. When a communication link between the AMP STA and the excitation apparatus (or the first communication apparatus) is a one-way communication link, the problem of self-interference from back reflection can be solved. When a communication link between the AMP STA and the AP is a one-way communication link or the AMP STA performs communication by means of the relay apparatus, the problem of imbalance between uplink and downlink links can be solved.

Description

Communication method and device

[0001] This application claims priority to the Chinese patent application with application number 202311788396.6 filed with the State Intellectual Property Office of China on December 22, 2023, and priority to the Chinese patent application with the invention name “Communication Method and Device”, all contents of which are incorporated by reference into this application. Technical Field

[0002] The present application relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a communication method and device. Background Art

[0003] Traditional IoT devices typically feature batteries with limited lifespans, and the need to replace them impacts the user experience. With the rapid growth of IoT networks and devices, maintenance expenses (including labor and battery costs) will also increase significantly. First, billions of batteries are discarded each year, of which only a small fraction can be effectively recycled, causing harmful impacts on Earth's ecosystems. Second, maintaining IoT network operations and replacing batteries can be extremely difficult in extreme environmental conditions. To address these issues, battery-free IoT communications have been proposed, which can effectively improve network performance and sustainability, expanding application scenarios. Furthermore, by eliminating batteries, device size and cost can be significantly reduced, enabling a variety of new applications.

[0004] The IoT, powered by ambient power (AMP), enables battery-free communication and meets the requirements of various vertical applications. Such devices can harvest energy from various sources, including radio waves, light (sunlight), motion, and heat, eliminating the need for traditional batteries. Ambient power-enabled IoT differs from traditional Wi-Fi for the following reasons: 1) Wi-Fi devices are typically powered by traditional power supplies; 2) AMP devices typically consume less than 1 milliwatt of peak power (due to device size constraints), significantly lower than the tens to hundreds of milliwatts consumed by traditional Wi-Fi devices; and 3) simpler waveforms other than orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) can be used, reducing complexity and power consumption. Combining AMP-enabled IoT with Wi-Fi will enable new IoT services that will benefit Wi-Fi communication systems.

[0005] Therefore, how to layout AMP equipment needs to be solved urgently. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The embodiments of the present application provide a communication method and apparatus that can improve the interaction process of AMP devices, thereby solving the problem of imbalance in uplink and downlink links, and / or the self-interference problem of full-duplex back reflection.

[0007] In a first aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a communication method, which is applied to an ambient energy AMP site STA. The AMP STA may include an AMP device, or a chip or functional module that can be set in the AMP device. The method includes:

[0008] Receive a wireless power transfer (WPT) signal and receive communication indication information, where the communication indication information is used to instruct the AMP STA to communicate; receive an excitation signal and send a reflection signal of the excitation signal.

[0009] In this embodiment of the present application, the WPT signal (or excitation signal) and communication indication information received by the AMP STA can come from different communication devices, and the AMP STA can send a reflected signal to the other communication device. Thus, this method improves the process of interaction between the AMP STA and other communication devices.

[0010] In this embodiment of the present application, if the communication link between the AMP STA and the excitation device (or the first communication device) is a unidirectional communication link from the excitation device to the AMP STA, after the excitation device (or the first communication device) sends an excitation signal and the AMP STA receives the excitation signal, the receiving end of the reflected signal of the excitation signal is not the excitation device (or the first communication device). This effectively solves the self-interference problem of full-duplex backreflection.

[0011] In the embodiment of the present application, when the communication link between the AMP STA and the AP is a unidirectional communication link from the AMP STA to the AP, or when the AMP STA communicates through a relay device, the problem of imbalance between the uplink and downlink can be effectively solved.

[0012] As a possible implementation method 1, the receiving of the WPT signal includes: receiving the WPT signal from the first communication device; the receiving of the communication indication information includes: receiving the communication indication information from the first communication device; the receiving of the excitation signal includes: receiving the excitation signal from the first communication device.

[0013] In this embodiment of the present application, the first communication device can provide radio frequency (RF) energy (such as sending WPT signals) to the AMP STA and support long-distance communication. In other words, the first communication device can be used to implement the functions of both the excitation device and the relay device.

[0014] Exemplarily, receiving the WPT signal includes receiving the WPT signal from the first communication device via link 4; and receiving communication indication information includes receiving the WPT signal from the first communication device via link 2. Exemplarily, the link used to transmit the excitation signal is link 4 or link 2. Exemplarily, link 2 is a unidirectional communication link.

[0015] In this embodiment of the present application, Link 2 can be a unidirectional communication link from the first communication device to the AMP STA. When the first communication device sends an excitation signal, the receiving end of the transmitted signal after the excitation signal is reflected by the AMP STA is not the first communication device (e.g., an AP). That is, the transmitting and receiving ends of the back-reflection communication are not the same device. This effectively solves the problem of back-reflection self-interference and reduces the difficulty of AP signal processing, such as reducing the difficulty of the AP processing reflected signals.

[0016] As a possible implementation manner 1, the sending the reflected signal of the excitation signal includes: sending the reflected signal of the excitation signal to an access point (AP).

[0017] Exemplarily, the sending the reflected signal of the excitation signal includes: sending the reflected signal of the excitation signal to the AP via link 3. Exemplarily, the link 3 may be a unidirectional communication link.

[0018] In this embodiment of the present application, link 3 can be a unidirectional communication link from an AMP STA to an AP. Because the AP has better reception sensitivity than the AMP STA, information sent by the AMP STA can be received by the AP. This effectively resolves the problem of unbalanced uplink and downlink links (or effectively resolves the problem of unbalanced uplink and downlink coverage).

[0019] Exemplarily, link 2 is a bidirectional communication link. Exemplarily, link 3 is a bidirectional communication link.

[0020] Exemplarily, both link 2 and link 4 can support sub-1 GHz frequency bands. Exemplarily, link 2 can support 2.4 GHz frequency bands, and link 4 can support sub-1 GHz frequency bands. Exemplarily, both link 2 and link 4 can support 2.4 GHz frequency bands. Exemplarily, link 2 can support sub-1 GHz frequency bands, and link 4 can support 2.4 GHz frequency bands.

[0021] As a possible implementation method 2, the receiving of the WPT signal includes: receiving the WPT signal from the excitation device; the receiving of the communication indication information includes: receiving the communication indication information from the relay device through link 4; the receiving of the excitation signal includes: receiving the excitation signal from the excitation device.

[0022] Exemplarily, the receiving of the WPT signal includes: receiving the WPT signal from the excitation device through link 6 .

[0023] Exemplarily, the link used to transmit the excitation signal may be link 2 (or link 6). For example, link 2 may be a unidirectional communication link from the excitation device to the AMP STA. As a result, the receiving end of the transmitted signal after the excitation signal is reflected by the AMP STA is different from the transmitting end, effectively resolving the problem of backreflection self-interference and reducing the difficulty of AP signal processing.

[0024] Exemplarily, link 4 is a unidirectional communication link. Link 4 is a unidirectional communication link from the relay device to the AMP STA. Because the relay device supports long-distance communication, the AMP STA can receive information from the AP, effectively resolving the issue of uplink and downlink imbalance.

[0025] Exemplarily, link 2 may also be a bidirectional communication link. Exemplarily, link 4 may also be a bidirectional communication link.

[0026] As a possible implementation method 2, when link 4 is a bidirectional link, the sending of the reflected signal of the excitation signal includes: sending the reflected signal of the excitation signal to the relay device through link 4; or, when link 4 is a unidirectional communication link, the sending of the reflected signal of the excitation signal includes: sending the reflected signal of the excitation signal to the AP through link 5.

[0027] As a possible implementation method 3, the receiving of the WPT signal includes: receiving the WPT signal from the excitation device; the receiving of the communication indication information includes: receiving the communication indication information from the relay device through link 3; the receiving of the excitation signal includes: receiving the excitation signal from the excitation device.

[0028] Exemplarily, the link used to transmit the WPT signal is link 5. As an example, the link used to transmit the excitation signal is link 5. As another example, the link used to transmit the excitation signal is link 4. Exemplarily, link 4 is a unidirectional communication link from the excitation device to the AMP STA.

[0029] As a possible implementation manner 3, the sending of the reflection signal of the excitation signal includes: sending the reflection signal of the excitation signal to the relay device through link 3.

[0030] As a possible implementation method 4, the receiving of the WPT signal includes: receiving the WPT signal from the excitation device; the receiving of the communication indication information includes: receiving the communication indication information from the AP through link 2; the receiving of the excitation signal includes: receiving the excitation signal from the excitation device.

[0031] Exemplarily, the link used to transmit the WPT signal is link 3. As an example, the link used to transmit the excitation signal is link 3. As another example, the link used to transmit the excitation signal is link 4. Exemplarily, link 4 is a unidirectional communication link from the excitation device to the AMP STA.

[0032] As a possible implementation manner 4, sending the reflected signal of the excitation signal includes: sending the reflected signal of the excitation signal to the AP through link 2.

[0033] In a possible implementation manner, a frequency band supported by the communication link is different from a frequency band supported by the WPT link.

[0034] In a possible implementation, a frequency band supported by the communication link is the same as a frequency band supported by the WPT link, and the communication link is a unidirectional communication link.

[0035] In a second aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a communication method, which is applied to an incentive device and includes:

[0036] Receive energy transmission indication information from an access point AP, where the energy transmission indication information is used to instruct an ambient energy AMP station STA to receive information about a wireless energy transmission WPT signal; and send a WPT signal to the AMP STA based on the energy transmission indication information.

[0037] In a possible implementation manner, the power transmission indication information includes at least one item: an identifier of the AMP STA or wake-up information of the AMP STA.

[0038] In a possible implementation, the energy transmission indication information further includes at least one of the following: transmission time of the WPT signal, waveform information of the WPT signal, and wake-up information of the excitation device.

[0039] In a possible implementation manner, the communication indication information includes at least one of the following: control information, scheduling information, and data type to be reported by the AMPSTA.

[0040] In a possible implementation manner, sending the WPT signal to the AMP STA based on the power transmission indication information includes: sending the WPT signal to the AMP STA on a WPT link based on the power transmission indication information.

[0041] In a possible implementation manner, the method further includes: sending an excitation signal to the AMPSTA over a communication link.

[0042] In a possible implementation, a frequency band supported by the communication link is different from a frequency band supported by the WPT link.

[0043] In a possible implementation manner, the method further includes: sending occupancy indication information on the communication link, where the occupancy indication information is used to indicate that the communication link has been occupied.

[0044] In a possible implementation, a frequency band supported by the communication link is the same as a frequency band supported by the WPT link, and the communication link is a unidirectional communication link.

[0045] In a possible implementation, the frequency band supported by the WPT link includes 2.4 GHz or lower than 1 GHz.

[0046] In a third aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a communication method, which is applied to a relay device and includes:

[0047] Receive communication indication information from the AP, and send the communication indication information to the AMP STA, where the communication indication information is used to instruct the AMP STA to communicate.

[0048] In a possible implementation manner, the method further includes: receiving ACK information for the communication indication information from the AMP STA.

[0049] Exemplarily, the ACK information is carried in the reflected signal.

[0050] In a fourth aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a communication method, which is applied to a first communication device, and includes:

[0051] Receive indication information from an access point AP, the indication information including energy transmission indication information; send a wireless energy transmission WPT signal to an AMP STA based on the energy transmission indication information, the energy transmission indication information being used to instruct the AMP STA to receive information about the WPT signal.

[0052] In a possible implementation, the indication information further includes communication indication information, where the communication indication information is used to instruct the AMP STA to perform communication.

[0053] In a possible implementation manner, the method further includes: sending ACK information for the indication information to the AP.

[0054] In a fifth aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a communication method, which is applied to an AP. The AP may include a Wi-Fi device, or a chip or functional module that can be set in a Wi-Fi device. The method includes:

[0055] Send energy transmission indication information, where the energy transmission indication information is used to indicate information that the environmental energy AMP site STA receives wireless energy transmission WPT signals; send communication indication information, where the communication indication information is used to indicate information that the AMP STA performs communication.

[0056] For detailed descriptions of the second to fifth aspects, please refer to the first aspect, and the repeated parts will not be described in detail.

[0057] In a sixth aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides an AMP STA, configured to execute the method in the first aspect or any possible implementation. The AMP STA includes a module capable of executing the method in the first aspect or any possible implementation.

[0058] In a seventh aspect, embodiments of the present application provide an incentive device for executing the method in the second aspect or any possible implementation. The incentive device includes a module for executing the method in the second aspect or any possible implementation.

[0059] In an eighth aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a relay device for executing the method in the third aspect or any possible implementation. The relay device includes a module for executing the method in the third aspect or any possible implementation.

[0060] In a ninth aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a first communication device configured to execute the method in the fourth aspect or any possible implementation. The first communication device includes a module configured to execute the method in the fourth aspect or any possible implementation.

[0061] In a tenth aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides an AP configured to execute the method in the fifth aspect or any possible implementation. The AP includes a module configured to execute the method in the fifth aspect or any possible implementation.

[0062] In an eleventh aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a communication device, comprising a processor configured to execute the method described in one of the first to fifth aspects or any possible implementation thereof. The processor is configured to execute a program stored in a memory, and when the program is executed, the method described above is executed.

[0063] In a possible implementation, the memory is located outside the communication device.

[0064] In a possible implementation, the memory is located within the above-mentioned communication device.

[0065] In the embodiment of the present application, the processor and the memory may also be integrated into one device, that is, the processor and the memory may also be integrated together. For example, the communication device may be a chip.

[0066] In a possible implementation, the communication device further includes a transceiver, and the transceiver is configured to receive information or send information.

[0067] Exemplarily, the communication device may be any one of the following: an AMP STA, an excitation device, a relay device, a first communication device, or an AP. When the communication device is any one of the above items, the communication device may be used to execute the method implemented by the corresponding device.

[0068] In the twelfth aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a communication device, which includes a logic circuit and an interface, and the logic circuit and the interface are coupled; the interface is used to input and / or output information, and the logic circuit is used to execute the method described in one of the first to fifth aspects or any possible implementation method.

[0069] Exemplarily, the communication device may be any one of the following: an AMP STA, an excitation device, a relay device, a first communication device, or an AP. When the communication device is any one of the above items, the communication device may be used to execute the method implemented by the corresponding device.

[0070] In the thirteenth aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a computer-readable storage medium, which is used to store a computer program. When the computer-readable storage medium is run on a computer, the method shown in any one of the above-mentioned first to fifth aspects or any possible implementation method is executed.

[0071] In a fourteenth aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a computer program product, which, when running on a computer, enables the method shown in any one of the above-mentioned first to fifth aspects or any possible implementation to be executed.

[0072] In a fifteenth aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a computer program. When the computer program is run on a computer, the method shown in any one of the first to fifth aspects or any possible implementation is executed.

[0073] In the sixteenth aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a communication system, which includes an AMP STA and an excitation device, wherein the AMP STA is used to execute the method shown in the above-mentioned first aspect or any possible implementation of the first aspect, and the excitation device is used to execute the method shown in the above-mentioned second aspect or any possible implementation of the second aspect.

[0074] In a possible implementation, the communication system further includes a relay device, and the relay device is used to execute the method shown in the third aspect or any possible implementation of the third aspect.

[0075] In a possible implementation, the communication system further includes an AP, and the AP is used to execute the method shown in the fifth aspect or any possible implementation of the fifth aspect.

[0076] In the seventeenth aspect, an embodiment of the present application provides a communication system, which includes an AMP STA and a first communication device, wherein the AMP STA is used to execute the method shown in the above-mentioned first aspect or any possible implementation of the first aspect, and the first communication device is used to execute the method shown in the above-mentioned fourth aspect or any possible implementation of the fourth aspect.

[0077] In a possible implementation, the communication system further includes an AP, and the AP is used to execute the method shown in the fifth aspect or any possible implementation of the fifth aspect. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0078] FIG1 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0079] FIG2 is a schematic diagram of back reflection communication provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0080] FIG3 is a schematic diagram of another back reflection communication provided by an embodiment of the present application;

[0081] FIG4a is a schematic diagram of a topological structure of a communication system provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0082] FIG4 b is a flow chart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0083] FIG5a is a schematic diagram of a topological structure of a communication system provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0084] FIG5 b is a flow chart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0085] FIG6a is a schematic diagram of a topological structure of a communication system provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0086] FIG6 b is a flow chart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0087] FIG7a is a schematic diagram of a topological structure of a communication system provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0088] FIG7 b is a flow chart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0089] FIG8 is a schematic diagram of a topological structure of a communication system provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0090] FIG9a is a schematic diagram of a topological structure of a communication system provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0091] FIG9 b is a flow chart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0092] FIG10 is a schematic diagram of a topological structure of a communication system provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0093] FIG11a is a schematic diagram of a topological structure of a communication system provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0094] FIG11b is a flow chart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0095] FIG12 is a schematic diagram of a topological structure of a communication system provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0096] FIG13 is a schematic diagram of a topological structure of a communication system provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0097] FIG14 is a schematic diagram of a topological structure of a communication system provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0098] FIG15 is a schematic diagram of a topological structure of a communication system provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0099] FIG16 is a schematic diagram of a topological structure of a communication system provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0100] FIG17a is a schematic diagram of a topological structure of a communication system provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0101] FIG17b is a schematic diagram of a topological structure of a communication system provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0102] FIG17c is a flow chart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0103] FIG18 is a schematic structural diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0104] FIG19 is a schematic structural diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0105] Figure 20 is a structural diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0106] To facilitate understanding of the technical solution of the present application, the present application will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0107] The terms "first" and "second" in the specification, claims, and drawings of this application are used only to distinguish different objects and are not used to describe a specific order. In addition, the terms "including" and "having" and any variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusions. For example, a process, method, system, product, or device that includes a series of steps or units is not limited to the listed steps or units, but may optionally include steps or units that are not listed, or may optionally include other steps or units that are inherent to the process, method, product, or device.

[0108] References to "embodiments" herein mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiments may be included in at least one embodiment of the present application. The appearance of this phrase in various places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor does it refer to independent or alternative embodiments that are mutually exclusive of other embodiments. It will be understood, both explicitly and implicitly, by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein may be combined with other embodiments.

[0109] In this application, "at least one (item)" means one or more, "more than one" means two or more, "at least two (items)" means two or three and more than three, and "and / or" is used to describe the association relationship of associated objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, "A and / or B" can mean: only A exists, only B exists, and A and B exist at the same time, where A and B can be singular or plural. "Or" means that two relationships can exist, such as only A exists, only B exists; when A and B are not mutually exclusive, it can also mean that three relationships exist, such as only A exists, only B exists, and A and B exist at the same time. The character " / " generally indicates that the previous and next associated objects are in an "or" relationship. "At least one of the following" or similar expressions refers to any combination of these items. For example, at least one of a, b or c can mean: a, b, c, "a and b", "a and c", "b and c", or "a and b and c".

[0110] In this application, "indication" may include direct indication, indirect indication, explicit indication, and implicit indication. When describing that a certain indication information is used to indicate A, it can be understood that the indication information carries A, directly indicates A, or indirectly indicates A.

[0111] In this application, the information indicated by the indication information is referred to as the information to be indicated. In the specific implementation process, there are many ways to indicate the information to be indicated, such as but not limited to, the information to be indicated can be directly indicated, such as the information to be indicated itself or the index of the information to be indicated. The information to be indicated can also be indirectly indicated by indicating other information, wherein there is an association between the other information and the information to be indicated. It is also possible to indicate only a part of the information to be indicated, while the other parts of the information to be indicated are known or agreed in advance. For example, the indication of specific information can also be achieved with the help of the arrangement order of each information agreed in advance (for example, stipulated by the protocol), thereby reducing the indication overhead to a certain extent. In addition, the information to be indicated can be sent together as a whole, or it can be divided into multiple sub-information and sent separately, and the sending period and / or sending time of these sub-information can be the same or different.

[0112] In this application, "sending" and "receiving" indicate the direction of signal transmission. For example, "sending information to XX" can be understood as the destination of the information is XX, which can include direct sending through the air interface, and also include indirect sending through the air interface by other units or modules. "Receiving information from YY" can be understood as the source of the information is YY, which can include direct receiving from YY through the air interface, and also include indirect receiving from YY through the air interface from other units or modules. "Sending" can also be understood as the "output" of the chip interface, and "receiving" can also be understood as the "input" of the chip interface. In other words, sending and receiving can be carried out between devices, for example, between network devices and terminal devices, or can be carried out within a device, for example, sending or receiving between components, modules, chips, software modules or hardware modules within the device through a bus, trace or interface.

[0113] The following introduces the communication system involved in the embodiments of the present application.

[0114] The technical solution provided in the embodiments of the present application can be applied to the AMP field, for example, it can support wireless power transfer (WPT), wireless local area network (WLAN), or Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) series protocols. Exemplarily, the AMP device involved in the AMP field can meet at least one of the following characteristics: (1) at least one data communication mode in the sub-1GHz frequency band; (2) at least one data communication mode in the 2.4GHz frequency band, and the communication access type (AC) is set to background (AC_BK); (3) at least one wireless power transfer (WPT) mode in the sub-1GHz frequency band, which is used to indicate radio frequency (RF) energy harvesting. Exemplarily, the application scenarios of AMP include but are not limited to smart homes, smart farms, smart factories, logistics / warehousing, supermarket distribution, indoor positioning, data centers, etc. The WPT shown in the embodiments of the present application can also be called wireless energy transfer or energy transfer.

[0115] The method provided in the embodiment of the present application can be applied to the IEEE 802.11 series of protocols, such as 802.11a / b / g protocol, 802.11n protocol, 802.11ac protocol, 802.11ax protocol, 802.11be protocol, 802.11bn protocol or the next generation of protocols, etc., which are not listed here one by one. The technical solution provided in the embodiment of the present application can also be applied to wireless personal area networks (WPANs) based on millimeter wave (MMW) and ultra wideband (UWB) technologies. The method provided in the embodiment of the present application can be applied to the IEEE 802.15 series of protocols, such as 802.15.4a protocol, 802.15.4z protocol or 802.15.4ab protocol, or a future generation of UWB WPAN protocols, etc., which are not listed here one by one. The technical solutions provided in the embodiments of the present application can also be applied to the following communication systems, for example, the Internet of Things (IoT) system, vehicle-to-everything (V2X, where X can represent anything), device-to-device (D2D), narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) system, long-term evolution (LTE) system, fifth-generation (5G) communication system, and new communication systems that will emerge in future communication developments. For example, the V2X may include vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V), vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I), vehicle-to-pedestrian (V2P) or vehicle-to-network (V2N) communication.

[0116] As AMP applications continue to gain popularity, the AMP system will be applied to a wider range of scenarios and industries, including the Internet of Things (IoT), the Internet of Vehicles (IoV), the banking industry, corporate offices, stadiums and exhibition halls, concert halls, hotel rooms, dormitories, hospital wards, classrooms, supermarkets, plazas, streets, production workshops, and warehouses. AMP-enabled devices include sensor nodes in smart cities (such as smart water and electricity meters, and smart air quality monitoring nodes), smart devices in smart homes (such as smart cameras, projectors, displays, TVs, speakers, refrigerators, and washing machines), IoT nodes, entertainment devices (such as wearable devices like augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR)), smart devices in smart offices (such as printers, projectors, speakers, and audio systems), IoV devices, infrastructure in everyday life (such as vending machines, self-service kiosks in supermarkets, self-service checkout machines, and self-service ordering kiosks), and equipment in large sports and music venues.

[0117] Although the embodiments of the present application primarily use networks based on the IEEE 802.11 series of standards as an example, various aspects of the embodiments of the present application may also be extended to other networks that utilize various standards or protocols, such as Bluetooth, high-performance radio LAN (HIPERLAN) (a wireless standard similar to the IEEE 802.11 standard), wide area networks (WANs), or other currently known or later developed networks.

[0118] In one possible implementation, the method provided in the embodiment of the present application may be implemented by a communication device in a communication system. For example, the communication device may be an access point (AP) or a station (STA).

[0119] An AP is a device with wireless communication capabilities that supports communication, sensing, or energy transmission using the WLAN protocol or the AMP protocol. It has the ability to transmit energy, communicate, or sense with other devices in the WLAN network or AMP network (such as non-access point stations (non-AP STAs) or AMP STAs or other access points). An access point is equivalent to a bridge connecting a wired network and a wireless network. Its main function is to connect various wireless network clients together and then connect the wireless network to the Ethernet. The device with wireless communication capabilities can be a complete device, or it can be a chip, processing system, or functional module installed in the complete device. The device installed with these chips, processing systems, or functional modules can implement the methods and functions of the embodiments of the present application under the control of the chips, processing systems, or functional modules. The AP in the embodiments of the present application is a device that provides services for non-AP STAs or AMP STAs and can support 802.11 series protocols or subsequent protocols. For example, an access point can be an access point for a terminal (such as a mobile phone) to enter a wired (or wireless) network. It is mainly deployed in homes, buildings, and campuses, with a typical coverage radius of tens to hundreds of meters. Of course, it can also be deployed outdoors. For another example, an AP can be a communication entity such as a communication server, router, switch, or bridge; an AP can include various forms of macro base stations, micro base stations, and relay stations. For another example, an AP can be used to transmit energy to an AMP STA. Of course, an AP can also be a chip, processing system, or module in any of the aforementioned devices, thereby implementing the methods and functions of the embodiments of the present application.

[0120] STA is a device with wireless communication function, supports communication or perception using WLAN protocol, and has the ability to communicate or perceive with other non-AP STAs or access points in the WLAN network; or supports the use of AMP protocol to collect RF energy, and has the ability to communicate or perceive with other AMP STAs or APs in the AMP network. For example, STA is any user communication device that allows a user to communicate or perceive or transmit energy with an AP and then communicate with a WLAN or AMP. For another example, STA is a device that can collect RF radio frequency through an excitation device. The device with wireless communication function can be a complete device, or it can be a chip or processing system or functional module installed in the complete device. The device installed with these chips or processing systems or functional modules can implement the methods and functions of the embodiments of the present application under the control of the chip or processing system or functional module. For example, STA can be a wireless communication chip, a wireless sensor or a wireless communication terminal, etc., and can also be called a user. For another example, a STA may be a mobile phone supporting Wi-Fi communication, a tablet supporting Wi-Fi communication, a set-top box supporting Wi-Fi communication, a smart TV supporting Wi-Fi communication, a smart wearable device supporting Wi-Fi communication, an in-vehicle communication device supporting Wi-Fi communication, or a computer supporting Wi-Fi communication. Of course, a STA may also be a chip, processing system, or module in any of the above-mentioned devices, thereby implementing the methods and functions of the embodiments of the present application. The description of STA herein also applies to the AMP STA shown in the embodiments of the present application.

[0121] Exemplarily, the communication system to which the method provided in the embodiment of the present application can be applied may include access points and stations. For example, the embodiment of the present application may be applicable to scenarios of communication or perception between AP and STA, between AP and AP, or between STA and STA in a WLAN, and the embodiment of the present application is not limited to this. Optionally, the AP may communicate or perceive with a single STA, or the AP may communicate or perceive with multiple STAs at the same time. Specifically, the communication or perception between the AP and multiple STAs can be divided into downlink transmission in which the AP sends signals to multiple STAs at the same time, and uplink transmission in which multiple STAs send signals to the AP. Among them, the WLAN communication protocol can be supported between the AP and the STA, between the AP and the AP, and between the STA and the STA. The communication protocol may include a protocol of the IEEE802.11 series, such as the 802.11bn protocol, and of course, it is also applicable to protocols after 802.11bn.

[0122] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system provided by an embodiment of the present application. The communication system may include one or more APs and one or more STAs. Figure 1 shows two access points, such as AP1 and AP2, and three stations, such as STA1, STA2, and STA3.

[0123] As an example, the method provided in the embodiments of the present application may be applicable to data communication or perception or wireless energy transmission between an AP and one or more STAs, such as the communication or perception or wireless energy transmission between AP1 and STA1 as shown in Figure 1, the communication or perception or wireless energy transmission between an AP and a STA as shown in Figure 1, and the communication or perception or wireless energy transmission between AP1 and STA1 and STA2 as shown in Figure 1. As another example, the method provided in the embodiments of the present application may be applicable to communication between APs, such as the communication between AP1 and AP2 as shown in Figure 1. As another example, the method provided in the embodiments of the present application may be applicable to communication or perception or wireless energy transmission between STAs, such as the communication or perception or wireless energy transmission between STA2 and STA3 as shown in Figure 1.

[0124] In Figure 1, the STA is a mobile phone and the AP is a router as an example, which does not limit the types of APs and STAs in the embodiments of the present application. At the same time, the number of APs and STAs shown in Figure 1 is only an example. In a specific implementation, the number of APs or STAs can be greater or less, and the embodiments of the present application do not limit this.

[0125] The following introduces various terms involved in the embodiments of this application.

[0126] 1.AMP Station (STA)

[0127] In an embodiment of the present application, the AMP STA may be a low-power IoT device that supports RF energy harvesting. The essence of RF energy harvesting may be to convert RF energy, such as RF signals, into electrical energy, such as direct current (DC) (RF-DC). For example, the AMP STA may convert the RF it collects (such as the WPT signal shown below) into DC. Exemplarily, the AMP STA may convert the RF energy it obtains into electrical energy and store it in an energy storage unit (such as a capacitor or a battery), or it may directly use the electrical energy after collection to drive logic circuits, digital chips, or sensor devices, thereby completing at least one of the following functions: modulation of reflected signals, transmission of reflected signals, and collection and processing of sensing information.

[0128] The names of the AMP STAs shown in this embodiment are examples only. As standards evolve, devices that convert RF energy into DC electrical energy or devices that harvest RF energy may have other names, and this is not limited in this embodiment. The example of the AMP STA converting the harvested RF energy into electrical energy is merely an example. An AMP STA can also convert this RF energy into other energies, which can be used to perform similar functions as electrical energy.

[0129] For example, AMP STAs can be classified into Type A, Type B, and Type C. Of course, the classification of AMP STAs here is merely an example. As standards evolve, AMP STAs may be classified in other ways, and this is not limited in this embodiment. The following examples illustrate the characteristics of Types A to C.

[0130] AMP STA of type A (or Class A) can meet at least one of the following requirements: environmental energy is part of the energy source of the AMP STA, it has strong communication capabilities, has large energy storage capabilities, supports existing Wi-Fi protocols (such as IEEE 802.11b / g / n / ac / ax / be / bn), and supports more complex PPDU structures. The Wi-Fi protocols shown here are only examples. As the standards progress, subsequent AMP STAs of type A can also support next-generation Wi-Fi protocols, etc., and the embodiments of the present application do not limit this. The stronger communication capabilities shown here can be relative to AMP STAs of type B and AMP STAs of type C, such as AMP STAs of type A can process PPDUs with OFDM modulation, and AMP STAs of type A can support IEEE 802.11b / g / n and other series of protocols. The larger energy storage capacity shown here is relative to AMP STAs of type B and AMP STAs of type C, such as AMP STAs of type A can be provided with a power supply. For example, the more complex PPDU may be a PPDU modulated by OFDM, relative to a PPDU modulated by OOK.

[0131] AMP STA of type B (or Class B) can meet at least one of the following: support active signal transmission, and energy transmission and data transmission can be decoupled. Exemplarily, AMP STA of type B may not support the existing Wi-Fi protocol, but support active signal transmission. Energy transmission and data transmission are decoupled, for example: AMP STA of type B can use its own stored energy for communication, or it can also receive WPT signals and use the electrical energy converted by the WPT signals for communication. For example, the electrical energy that can be stored by AMP STA of type B can be greater than or equal to the first threshold. The specific value of the first threshold is not limited in the embodiments of the present application.

[0132] AMP STA of type C (or called Class C) can meet at least one of the following: support backscatter communication, and energy transmission and data transmission can be coupled. Exemplarily, supporting backscatter communication can be understood as: this type of AMP STA requires an excitation signal to achieve the purpose of sending a signal. In the topology structure described below, the AMP STA can send ACK information, etc. by receiving an excitation signal (such as the excitation signal represented by the dotted line in Figure 5b, or the excitation signal represented by the dotted line in Figure 7b, etc.). The energy transmission and data transmission shown here are coupled, for example: this type of AMP STA requires a WPT signal to provide energy before communication; or, this type of AMP STA needs to collect RF energy to achieve the purpose of communication; or, the energy storage capacity of this type of AMP STA is lower than that of type B AMP STA and type A AMP STA. For example, the electrical energy that can be stored by an AMP STA of type C can be less than or equal to the second threshold. The specific value of the second threshold is not limited in the embodiment of the present application. For example, the second threshold can be equal to 0.

[0133] All three types of AMP STAs have RF energy harvesting capabilities. For these three types of AMP STAs, Type A > Type B > Type C in terms of energy storage capacity. In terms of communication capabilities, Type A > Type B > Type C. In terms of power consumption, Type A > Type B > Type C, meaning Type C has the lowest power consumption.

[0134] Generally speaking, during the capability interaction phase, the AMP STA can declare its device type. If it is a type C AMP STA, it needs to further declare whether it supports a low noise amplifier (LNA) or whether it has a strong energy storage capability. Alternatively, a device that needs to interact with the AMP STA (such as an AP or a first communication device, etc.) can obtain the capabilities of the AMP STA in a certain way, such as the energy storage capability or whether the AMP STA supports LNA. Different types will have an impact on the transmission time of the WPT signal. For example, when the energy storage capability is strong, it means that the AMP STA requires a shorter charging time. For another example, when the energy storage capability is weak, it means that the AMP STA requires a longer charging time. Alternatively, a device that needs to interact with the AMP STA can obtain the energy status of the AMP STA (such as type A or type B) in a certain way. Different energy states can affect the transmission time of the WPT signal, etc.

[0135] 2. WPT signals and WPT links

[0136] As described above, the AMP STA can convert the collected RF energy into electrical energy. In this embodiment of the present application, the aforementioned RF signal may include a WPT signal. Upon receiving the WPT signal, the AMP STA can convert it into DC. Of course, the names of the WPT signals shown in this embodiment of the present application are merely examples. For example, the WPT signal can also be called an energy transfer signal or a signal for RF energy collection. The specific names of the WPT signals are not limited in this embodiment of the present application.

[0137] A link used to transmit WPT signals may be referred to as a WPT link. That is, the WPT link may be used to transmit WPT signals. The WPT link may also be referred to as an energy transmission link, etc. The specific name of the WPT link is not limited in the present embodiment.

[0138] 3. Communication link

[0139] The communication link can be used to transmit uplink data or downlink data.

[0140] The WPT link and the communication link shown in the embodiment of the present application are distinguished from each other in terms of function. In a specific implementation, the frequency bands supported by the two links may be the same or different.

[0141] The link used to transmit the excitation signal shown below may be a WPT link, or a communication link, which is not limited in this embodiment of the present application. For example, the link used to transmit the reflection signal shown below may be a communication link, or the link used to transmit the reflection signal may be other links, etc., which is not limited in this embodiment of the present application.

[0142] The links used to transmit energy transfer indication information, excitation indication information or communication indication information shown below may all be communication links.

[0143] 4. Backscatter

[0144] Back reflection communication is based on the principle of radio reflection and achieves communication by reflecting signals. It can also be called backscatter communication or back reflection communication.

[0145] The transmitting end of back-reflection communication (also known as the excitation source of back-reflection communication) can be used to transmit an excitation signal. The reflecting end of back-reflection communication can reflect the excitation signal. The reflecting end can transmit information through the reflected signal of the excitation signal. For example, because the excitation signal is reflected by the reflecting end, the reflected signal and the excitation signal fluctuate, and this fluctuation can be used to transmit information. For example, the receiving end of back-reflection communication can obtain the information that the reflecting end needs to transmit based on the above fluctuation. Generally speaking, the transmission time of the excitation signal and the reflected signal can be simultaneous. The simultaneous shown here can be understood as that the excitation signal and the reflected signal are transmitted in the same time period, or there is a certain time difference between the start transmission time of the excitation signal and the start transmission time of the reflected signal, and this time difference is less than a certain value.

[0146] As an example, Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of back-reflection communication provided in an embodiment of the present application. As shown in Figure 2, the transmitting end of the back-reflection communication and the receiving end of the back-reflection communication may not be the same device.

[0147] As another example, Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of another back-reflection communication provided by an embodiment of the present application. As shown in Figure 3, the transmitting end of the back-reflection communication and the receiving end of the back-reflection communication are the same device.

[0148] In the embodiments of the present application, the excitation signal may also be referred to as a carrier signal, etc., and the reflected signal may also be referred to as a back-reflected communication signal. The embodiments of the present application do not limit the names of the various signals. The embodiments of the present application do not limit the specific format of the excitation signal. For example, the excitation signal may be an ordinary communication signal, a Wi-Fi signal, or a radar signal, etc., and the embodiments of the present application do not limit this.

[0149] In the embodiment of the present application, the frequency band (or referred to as frequency band) supported by the link for transmitting the reflection signal and the frequency band supported by the link for transmitting the excitation signal may be the same.

[0150] 5. Excitation device and relay device

[0151] The excitation device can be used to send WPT signals to AMP STAs. For example, the excitation device may include an energizer. The excitation device may also be referred to as an excitation node. For example, a Class A AMP STA can send a WPT signal to a Class B AMP STA or a Class C AMP STA. Another example is a Class A AMP STA with sufficient power supply providing a WPT signal to a Class A AMP STA with less power supply. As standards evolve, other devices for providing RF energy to AMP STAs may emerge. Therefore, the embodiments of this application do not limit the specific product form of the excitation device.

[0152] Relay devices can be used to amplify signals, compensate for signal attenuation, and support long-distance communication. These devices may include repeaters. These devices may also be referred to as relay nodes. For detailed descriptions of relay devices, please refer to standards or protocols, and will not be detailed here.

[0153] In the embodiment of the present application, the signal coverage can be increased by deploying a relay device. For example, the relay device can support a new PPDU format, etc.

[0154] As an example, the excitation device and the relay device may be different physical entities (or called physical nodes).

[0155] As another example, a communication device can be used to implement both the functions of an excitation device and a relay device. For example, the communication device can both transmit WPT signals to AMP STAs and support communications. For example, the functions implemented by the excitation device and the functions implemented by the relay device can be implemented by a single communication device. For ease of description, the following description uses the first communication device as an example to describe the communication device shown here.

[0156] 6. Energy transmission indication information, incentive indication information and communication indication information

[0157] (1) The power transmission indication information can be used to indicate that the AMP STA receives the WPT signal. For example, the power transmission indication information can be information that the AP indicates to the excitation device (or the first communication device) regarding the AMP STA receiving the WPT signal. The power transmission indication information can include at least one item: the identifier of the AMP STA, the wake-up information of the AMP STA, or the trigger information. The identifier of the AMP STA can be used to identify the AMP STA. The wake-up information of the AMP STA can be used to indicate the wake-up of the AMP STA, such as the wake-up time or the wake-up period. The trigger information can be used to activate the AMP STA.

[0158] Exemplarily, the power transmission indication information may also include at least one of the following: wake-up information of the stimulus device or information indicating whether to transmit power. The wake-up information of the stimulus device may be used to indicate whether to wake up the stimulus device. For details about the wake-up information of the stimulus device, please refer to the description of the wake-up information of the AMP STA and will not be described in detail here. The information indicating whether to transmit power may be used to indicate that the stimulus device needs to transmit power to the AMP STA.

[0159] Exemplarily, the energy transmission indication information may also include at least one of the following: the transmission time of the WPT signal or the waveform information of the WPT signal. The transmission time of the WPT signal can be used to indicate the time when the excitation device transmits the WPT signal. The time may be the time when the WPT signal starts transmitting, or the time when the WPT signal starts transmitting and the duration of transmission, etc. The time to start transmission may be an absolute time or a time relative to the wake-up time, etc. The specific form of the time is not limited in the embodiments of the present application. The waveform information of the WPT signal can be used to indicate the waveform of the WPT signal, or the modulation method of the WPT signal.

[0160] As an example, the stimulation device (or the first communication device) may periodically send a WPT signal to the AMP STA. For example, the power transmission indication information may include the AMP STA identifier, the AMP STA wake-up information, the WPT signal transmission time, or the WPT signal waveform information.

[0161] As another example, the incentive device (first communication device) may send a WPT signal to the AMP STA as needed. For example, the power transmission indication information may include the AMP STA identifier, trigger information, WPT signal transmission time, or WPT signal waveform information.

[0162] As another example, in combination with the energy state of the AMP STA, the energy transmission indication information may include the AMP STA identifier, an indication of whether energy is transmitted, the transmission time of the WPT signal, or the waveform information of the WPT signal. The specific contents of the energy transmission indication information are not listed here one by one.

[0163] (2) The excitation indication information can be used to indicate that the AMP STA receives the excitation signal. For example, the excitation indication information can be information that the AP indicates to the excitation device (or the first communication device) about the AMP STA receiving the excitation signal. The excitation indication information can include at least one item: the identifier of the AMP STA or the wake-up information of the AMP STA. Exemplarily, the excitation indication information can also include at least one of the following items: the transmission time of the excitation signal, the waveform information of the excitation signal, and the wake-up information of the excitation device. For the description of the excitation indication information, please refer to the description of the energy transmission indication information, which will not be described in detail here.

[0164] The energy transmission indication information, excitation indication information, and communication indication information shown in the embodiments of the present application are distinguished by their functions. In a specific implementation, these three information may be included in the same message, or in different messages, or at least two of the three information may be the same, etc. The embodiments of the present application do not limit the specific implementation of these three information. For example, since the excitation device (or the first communication device) can not only send a WPT signal to the AMP STA, but also send an excitation signal to the AMP STA. Therefore, as an example, the energy transmission indication information can not only indicate information that the AMP STA receives the WPT signal, but also indicate information that the AMP STA receives the excitation signal. For example, the waveform information of the WPT signal can be the same as the waveform information of the excitation signal. For example, the transmission time of the WPT signal is the same as the transmission time of the excitation signal. For example, the transmission time of the WPT signal and the transmission time of the excitation signal may have a certain offset, such as the transmission time of the excitation signal is later than the WPT signal. When referring to different topologies below, the energy transmission indication information can be used as an example to indicate information that the WPT signal can also be used to indicate information that the excitation signal can be used, but this should not be understood as a limitation to the embodiments of the present application.

[0165] (3) Communication indication information is information used to instruct the AMP STA to communicate. For example, the communication indication information may be information sent by the AP to the relay device (or the first communication device), and the relay device (or the first communication device) indicates to the AMP STA that the AMP STA is to communicate. The communication indication information may include at least one of the following: control information to be reported by the AMP STA, scheduling information, and data type. The control information may include at least one of the PPDU format waveform, MCS information, or frequency hopping information reported by the AMP STA. The scheduling information may be used to indicate the reporting time of the AMP STA or the channel information used. The data type may be used to indicate the purpose of the data reported by the AMP STA or the data size. It can be understood that for type C AMP STAs, this type of AMP STA needs to receive an excitation signal if it wants to send a signal. Therefore, the transmission time of the excitation signal may be related to the time of the uplink signal sent by the AMP STA. For example, the transmission time of the excitation signal may be related to the time of the above-mentioned control information, or to the time of the acknowledgment (ACK) information fed back by the AMP STA.

[0166] Due to the widespread deployment and use of unlicensed frequency bands, Wi-Fi IoT networks are highly competitive from the perspective of deployment costs. However, there are still many use cases that cannot be solved using currently available Wi-Fi IoT technologies, given the following circumstances. First, under extreme environmental conditions (such as high voltage, extremely high / low temperatures, and humid environments), traditional battery-powered devices may not work properly. Second, many use cases require maintenance-free devices, for example, traditional batteries do not need to be replaced / cannot be replaced. Finally, some use cases require ultra-low complexity, very small device size (such as a few millimeters thick), longer life cycles, etc. However, the Internet of Things based on AMP can achieve battery-free communication and meet the requirements of various vertical applications. Due to the limitations of device capabilities, the AMP field may face the following two problems:

[0167] Problem 1: imbalance between uplink and downlink, or imbalance in coverage between uplink and downlink. Generally speaking, communication from AP to AMP STA is downlink, and vice versa is uplink. Since the receiver sensitivity (or receiving power sensitivity) of AMP STA is relatively poor, the path loss that can be tolerated in the downlink is relatively low, and the sensitivity difference of the downlink (such as the difference between the transmit power of AP and the receive power of AMP STA) is smaller than the sensitivity difference of the uplink (the difference between the transmit power of AMP STA and the receive power of AP), the downlink coverage range is usually smaller than the uplink coverage range. As a result, the AMP STA may not be able to receive the information (or energy) sent by the AP, resulting in low communication efficiency, or even the situation where the AMP STA and AP cannot communicate. The poor receiver sensitivity of the AMP STA shown here is relative to the AP, such as the threshold of the receive power of AMP STA is higher than the threshold of the receive power of AP.

[0168] Problem 2: Full-duplex backreflection self-interference. Backreflection communication, as an extremely low-power communication method, is a hot potential technology in the AMP field. However, when the backreflection transmitter and receiver are the same (as shown in Figure 3), and the excitation signal frequency band is the same as the reflected signal frequency band, the reflected signal's very low energy will be submerged in the excitation signal, adding additional difficulty to signal processing.

[0169] In view of this, embodiments of the present application provide a communication method and apparatus that can address Problem 1 and / or Problem 2 above. The specific descriptions of the AP, AMP ST, first communication device, excitation device, or relay device mentioned below can be found above and will not be repeated here. The following details different topologies and method flows.

[0170] Topology 1.

[0171] Figure 4a is a schematic diagram of the topological structure of a communication system provided in an embodiment of the present application. As shown in Figure 4a, link 1 (link 1) to link 3 (link 3) can all be communication links, and link 4 (link 4) can be a WPT link. Link 1 is a bidirectional link, link 2 is a unidirectional communication link from the first communication device to the AMP STA, and link 3 is a unidirectional communication link from the AMP STA to the AP. The bidirectional link shown in the embodiment of the present application means that the link can be used for communication from device A to device B (i.e., in the direction from device A to device B), and can also be used for communication from device B to device A (i.e., in the direction from device B to device A). A unidirectional link means that the link can only be used for communication from device A to device B. The "A" and "B" shown here are to distinguish different devices.

[0172] As an example 1A, links 1 to 4 can all support the sub-1 GHz frequency band.

[0173] As another example 1B, links 1 to 3 may all support the 2.4 GHz frequency band, and link 4 may support the sub-1 GHz frequency band.

[0174] As another example 1C, links 1 to 4 can all support the 2.4 GHz frequency band.

[0175] As another example 1D, links 1 to 3 can all support the sub-1 GHz frequency band, and link 4 can support the 2.4 GHz frequency band.

[0176] Generally speaking, the frequency band of the link used to transmit the excitation signal is the same as that of the link used to transmit the reflected signal. For example, when the link used to transmit the excitation signal is link 4, the frequency band supported by link 4 may be the same as the frequency band supported by link 3. For another example, when the link used to transmit the excitation signal is link 2, the frequency band supported by link 2 is the same as the frequency band supported by link 3. The various frequency bands listed in the embodiments of the present application are only examples. As the standards progress, the AMP field can also support more frequency bands. At this time, the frequency bands supported by the WPT link and the frequency bands supported by the communication link can also be updated accordingly. Since link 1 is the link between the AP and the first communication device, the frequency bands supported by link 1 can be more, such as 5GHz or 6GHz.

[0177] In the embodiment of the present application, the same PPDU format may be used on links 1 to 3, or different PPDU formats may be used. For example, different PPDU formats may be used on link 1 and link 2, etc., which is not limited in the embodiment of the present application. For example, when the frequency band supported by link 1 is a 2.4 GHz band, a 5 GHz band, a 6 GHz band, etc., the format of the PPDU transmitted on the link 1 may be a traditional (legacy) PPDU format (such as a PPDU format supporting the Wi-Fi protocol), or a newly defined PPDU format, etc., which is not limited in the embodiment of the present application. For example, when the type of AMP STA is different, the PPDU format used by the AMP STA may be different (such as the format of the PPDU received by the AMP STA, or the format of the PPDU sent by the AMP STA). For example, when the type of AMP STA is a Class A AMP STA, the AMP STA may support the PPDU format involved in the existing Wi-Fi protocol or subsequent Wi-Fi protocol. For another example, when the type of the AMP STA is a Class C AMP STA, the AMP STA can support a simple PPDU format, such as a PPDU modulated by OOK. For another example, when the type of the AMP STA is a Class C AMP STA, the AMP STA can support a new PPDU format (such as the format of the AMP PPDU). The embodiment of the present application does not limit the format of the new PPDU. The relevant description of the PPDU format here also applies to the following and will not be repeated below.

[0178] In one possible implementation, when the frequency band supported by a communication link such as link 2 is different from the frequency band supported by a WPT link such as link 4 (such as in Example 1B and Example 1D above), the first communication device may send occupancy indication information on link 2, and the occupancy indication information may be used to indicate that link 2 is occupied. Exemplarily, when the first communication device sends a WPT signal on link 4, the first communication device may send occupancy indication information on link 2. The occupancy indication information may be any signal, such as a null data packet (NDP). By sending the occupancy indication information, the first communication device can effectively prevent a third-party device from preempting the link 2. The third-party device shown here is relative to the first communication device and the AMP STA. The relevant description of the occupancy indication information here also applies to the following text and will not be repeated below.

[0179] In topology one, Link 2 is a unidirectional communication link from the first communication device to the AMP STA. When the first communication device sends an excitation signal, the reflected signal from the AMP STA is received by the AP. This means that the transmitter and receiver of backreflection communication are different devices. This topology effectively addresses the issue of backreflection self-interference and reduces the difficulty for the AP to process signals, such as by reducing the difficulty of processing reflected signals.

[0180] In topology one, link 3 is a unidirectional communication link from the AMP STA to the AP. Because the AP has better reception sensitivity than the AMP STA, information sent by the AMP STA can be received by the AP. In topology one, the AMP STA can receive information sent by the AP via the first communication device, which can increase coverage. Therefore, topology one effectively resolves the imbalance between uplink and downlink links (or effectively resolves the imbalance in uplink and downlink coverage).

[0181] FIG4b is a flow chart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application. The communication method can be applied to the topology shown in FIG4a. As shown in FIG4b, the method includes:

[0182] 401. The AP sends indication information to a first communication device. Correspondingly, the first communication device receives the indication information.

[0183] For example, the AP may send the indication information in combination with information such as the device type of the AMP STA, the energy status of the AMP STA, and the channel occupancy. For details about the device type and energy status, refer to the description of term 1 above and will not be detailed here. For example, the AP may send the indication information via link 1.

[0184] Because the first communication device can implement both the functions of the excitation device and the functions of the relay device, the AP can provide the first communication device with power transmission indication information regarding the AMP STA, and can also provide the first communication device with communication indication information regarding the AMP STA. For example, this indication information may include power transmission indication information and communication indication information. For explanations of these two types of information, please refer to the descriptions of the aforementioned terms and will not be detailed here.

[0185] The PPDU format used for communication between the AP and the first communication device may be the PPDU format involved in the Wi-Fi protocol, or a newly defined PPDU format, etc., which is not limited in the embodiments of the present application. As an example, the indication information may be included in a control frame or a management frame. For example, the indication information may be included in a control frame or a management frame in the current Wi-Fi protocol, such as a beacon frame, etc. Of course, the indication information may also be included in a new control frame or management frame applicable to the AMP field, etc., which is not limited in the embodiments of the present application. As another example, the indication information may be included in a data frame.

[0186] Exemplarily, the first communication device may further send ACK information for the indication information to the AP. For the description of the ACK information, please refer to the following text and will not be described in detail here.

[0187] 402. The first communication device sends a WPT signal to the AMP STA. Correspondingly, the AMP STA can receive the WPT signal.

[0188] For example, the first communication device may send a WPT signal to the AMP STA via link 4 based on the indication information. For example, the receiving end may be identified by combining the AMP STA's identifier. Another example is to determine when to wake up the AMP STA by combining the AMP STA's wake-up information. Another example is to determine when to transmit the WPT signal (or excitation signal) by combining the WPT signal's transmission time. Another example is to determine when to transmit the WPT signal (or excitation signal) by combining the WPT signal's waveform information, and so on. The examples are not listed here one by one.

[0189] For example, if the AMP STA is a Type C AMP STA, since energy transmission and data transmission are coupled, the AMP STA must first acquire WPT signals and store energy before communicating. Therefore, before steps 403 and 404, the AMP STA must first receive WPT signals to ensure that it has sufficient energy for subsequent operations.

[0190] As another example, when the AMP STA is a Class A AMP STA or a Class B AMP STA, step 402 may be optional relative to steps 403 and 404. For example, the WPT signal may be transmitted in conjunction with the energy status of the Class A AMP STA or the Class B AMP STA. For an explanation of the energy status, refer to the description of capability interaction in Term 1 above. For example, the first communication device may obtain the energy status of the AMP STA and transmit the WPT signal in conjunction with the energy status.

[0191] There is no limitation on the order of step 402 and other steps.

[0192] 403. The first communication device sends communication indication information to the AMP STA. Correspondingly, the AMP STA receives the communication indication information.

[0193] Exemplarily, the first communication device may send the communication indication information based on the indication information, such as obtaining the communication indication information from the indication information and then sending the communication indication information. The first communication device may send the communication indication information via link 2.

[0194] As an example, the communication indication information may be included in a control frame or a management frame. As another example, the communication indication information may be included in a data frame. For relevant descriptions of the communication indication information, reference may be made to the description of the indication information in step 401 above, which will not be described in detail here.

[0195] As an example, when the AMP STA is an AMP STA of type C (or an AMP STA of type B), the communication indication information can be carried in the AMP PPDU. The format of the AMP PPDU may be different from the format of the existing PPDU in the Wi-Fi protocol (hereinafter referred to as Wi-Fi PPDU). The AMP PPDU shown in the embodiment of the present application can be understood as a PPDU that is different from the format of the existing PPDU in the Wi-Fi protocol and is applicable to the AMP field. As another example, when the AMP STA is an AMP STA of type A, the communication indication information can be carried in the Wi-Fi PPDU, or the communication indication information can also be carried in the AMP PPDU, etc., and the embodiment of the present application is not limited to this.

[0196] As an example, the WPT signal and the communication indication information can be carried in different PPDUs respectively. As another example, the WPT signal and the communication indication information can also be carried in the same PPDU, such as a part of the PPDU is used to provide RF energy to the AMP STA, and the other part can be the communication indication information. Alternatively, the WPT signal, the communication indication information, and the lower excitation signal are carried in the same PPDU, such as the first part of the PPDU is used to provide RF energy to the AMP STA, the second part can be the communication indication information, and the third part is the excitation signal. The embodiment of the present application does not limit the PPDU format of each signal.

[0197] 404. The first communication device sends an excitation signal to the AMP STA. Correspondingly, the AMP STA receives the excitation signal.

[0198] 405. The AMP STA sends a reflected signal to the AP, and correspondingly, the AP receives the reflected signal.

[0199] In an embodiment of the present application, the reflected signal can be carried in an AMP PPDU. Of course, for a Class A AMP STA or a Class B AMP STA, the reflected signal can also be carried in a Wi-Fi PPDU. For example, the excitation signal and the reflected signal can be respectively carried in different PPDUs of the same format. The embodiment of the present application does not limit the specific forms of the excitation signal and the reflected signal. Generally speaking, the transmission time of the excitation signal is relatively close to the transmission time of the reflected signal, such as being considered to be simultaneous. The interval between step 404 and step 405 in Figure 4b is only an example and should not be understood as a limitation on the embodiment of the present application. Similarly, the interval between the excitation signal and the reflected signal shown below is only an example and should not be understood as a limitation on the embodiment of the present application. The excitation signal can have a certain duration, and an excitation signal is exemplarily shown by an arrow in Figure 4b, but it should not be understood as a limitation on the embodiment of the present application. The description of the excitation signal and the reflected signal is also applicable below.

[0200] For example, the reflected signal may be used to carry control information, or power transmission status, etc. The power transmission status may be used to indicate the power state stored by the AMP STA, etc. The embodiment of the present application does not limit the specific information carried by the reflected signal.

[0201] As a possible implementation, the AP may send an ACK message to the first communication device, and the first communication device may send an ACK message to the AMP STA. For example, the ACK message may be used to confirm that the AP has received the reflected signal. For another example, the ACK message may be used to indicate that the ACK message is an acknowledgment of the reflected signal.

[0202] As another possible implementation, after the AMP STA sends the reflected signal, it may be assumed that the AP has received the reflected signal. As shown in FIG4b , ACK information may be an optional step.

[0203] In this embodiment of the present application, Link 2 is a unidirectional communication link from the first communication device to the AMP STA. When the first communication device sends an excitation signal, the reflected signal after reflection from the AMP STA is received by the AP. That is, the transmitter and receiver of the back-reflection communication are not the same device. Therefore, the communication system shown in Topology 1 can effectively solve the problem of back-reflection self-interference. Furthermore, the AMP STA can receive information from the AP through the first communication device, thereby solving the problem of uplink and downlink imbalance, effectively improving communication efficiency and enhancing system performance.

[0204] Topology 2

[0205] Figure 5a is a schematic diagram of the topology of a communication system provided in an embodiment of the present application. As shown in Figure 5a, links 1 to 3 can all be communication links, and link 4 can be a WPT link. Link 1 is a bidirectional link, link 2 is a bidirectional link, and link 3 is a unidirectional communication link from an AMP STA to an AP. For example, the AMP STA can feedback its energy transmission status via link 2.

[0206] For the relevant description of the frequency bands supported by each link, please refer to the above Examples 1A to 1D, which will not be described in detail here.

[0207] For the relevant description of the PPDU format, please refer to the description in the above topology structure 1, which will not be described in detail here.

[0208] For relevant instructions on the occupancy indication information, please refer to the description in the above topology structure 1, which will not be described in detail here.

[0209] In topology 2, link 3 is a unidirectional communication link from the AMP STA to the AP. Because the AP has better reception sensitivity than the AMP STA, information sent by the AMP STA can be received by the AP. Furthermore, the AMP STA can receive information from the AP via the first communication device. This topology 2 effectively resolves the imbalance between uplink and downlink communication, improving communication efficiency.

[0210] FIG5b is a flow chart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application. The communication method can be applied to the topology shown in FIG5a. For the relevant description of FIG5b, please refer to FIG4b and will not be described in detail here.

[0211] The difference between Figure 5b and Figure 4b is whether the AMP STA can send ACK information to the first communication device. Link 2 in Figure 4a is a unidirectional link, so the AMP STA cannot feedback AKC information. However, the link in Figure 5a is a bidirectional link, so the AMP STA can feedback ACK information. The description of ACK information can be as follows:

[0212] As a possible implementation manner, the AMP STA may feed back ACK information to the first communication apparatus, and correspondingly, the first communication apparatus may receive the ACK information.

[0213] The ACK information can be used to confirm that the AMP STA has correctly received the communication indication information, and can also be used to confirm that the AMP STA has received the communication indication information. For example, the ACK information can indicate that the ACK information is confirmation information for the communication indication information. For example, the AMP STA can confirm that it needs the first communication device to send an excitation signal based on the ACK information. That is, the ACK information shown in the embodiment of the present application can be used to indicate which information the ACK information is confirmation information for. Since the ACK information is optional, Figure 5b represents the ACK information in a dotted line. As shown in Figure 5b, the ACK information can be carried in the reflected signal.

[0214] For example, for a Class C AMP STA, since the Class C AMP STA has low power consumption and low processing capability, the AMP STA may not send the ACK information. For example, for a Class A AMP STA or a Class B AMP STA, the ACK information may be carried in an AMP PPDU or a Wi-Fi PPDU.

[0215] As another possible implementation, after the first communication device sends the communication indication information, it may be assumed that the AMP STA has received the communication indication information. That is, after receiving the communication indication information, the AMP STA may not send ACK information.

[0216] For the description of other terms in FIG. 5 b , please refer to FIG. 4 b and will not be repeated here.

[0217] For the topology shown in Figure 5a, although Link 2 is a bidirectional link, the receiver of the reflected signal sent by the AMP STA may not only include the AP. For example, the receiver of part of the signal sent by the AMP STA may also include the first communication device. When the AMP STA sends the reflected signal to the AP, the first communication device may not receive the signal, thereby not affecting the WPT signal.

[0218] In the embodiment of the present application, the AMP STA can receive information from the AP through the first communication device. Therefore, through the communication system shown in the topology structure 2, the problem of imbalance between uplink and downlink can be effectively solved, and the communication efficiency can be effectively improved.

[0219] Topology III.

[0220] Figure 6a is a schematic diagram of the topology of a communication system provided in an embodiment of the present application. As shown in Figure 6a, links 1 through 3 can all be communication links, and link 4 can be a WPT link. Link 1 is a bidirectional link, link 2 is a unidirectional link, and link 3 is a bidirectional link.

[0221] For the relevant description of the frequency bands supported by each link, please refer to the above Examples 1A to 1D, which will not be described in detail here.

[0222] For the relevant description of the PPDU format, please refer to the description in the above topology structure 1, which will not be described in detail here.

[0223] For relevant instructions on the occupancy indication information, please refer to the description in the above topology structure 1, which will not be described in detail here.

[0224] In the embodiments of the present application, the problem of uplink and downlink imbalance can be resolved by adjusting the MCS. For example, different transmission rates can be used for the uplink and downlink. For example, a higher transmission rate can be used for the uplink, while a lower transmission rate can be used for the downlink. This difference in rate solves the problem of uplink and downlink imbalance. The higher and lower shown here are relative.

[0225] In topology three, Link 2 is a unidirectional communication link from the first communication device to the AMP STA. When the first communication device sends an excitation signal, the reflected signal after reflection from the AMP STA is received by the AP. This means that the transmitter and receiver of backreflection communication are different devices. Therefore, Topology Three effectively addresses backreflection self-interference and reduces the difficulty for the AP to process signals. For details on Link 2 and backreflection interference, refer to the description of Topology One above and will not be elaborated here.

[0226] FIG6b is a flow chart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application. The communication method can be applied to the topology shown in FIG6a. For the relevant description of FIG6b, please refer to FIG4b or FIG5b, which will not be described in detail here.

[0227] For the topology shown in FIG6a, since link 3 is a bidirectional link, when the AP feeds back ACK information, the ACK information can be transmitted on link 3. That is, the ACK information can be directly sent from the AP to the AMP STA.

[0228] In the embodiment of the present application, the communication system shown in topology structure three can effectively solve the problem of back reflection self-interference and effectively reduce the complexity and difficulty of AP signal processing.

[0229] Topology 4.

[0230] Figure 7a is a schematic diagram of the topology of a communication system provided in an embodiment of the present application. As shown in Figure 7a, links 1 to 3 can all be communication links, and link 4 can be a WPT link. Links 1 to 3 are all bidirectional links.

[0231] For the relevant description of the frequency bands supported by each link, please refer to the above Examples 1A to 1D, which will not be described in detail here.

[0232] For the relevant description of the PPDU format, please refer to the description in the above topology structure 1, which will not be described in detail here.

[0233] For relevant instructions on the occupancy indication information, please refer to the description in the above topology structure 1, which will not be described in detail here.

[0234] In the embodiment of the present application, the problem of uplink and downlink imbalance can be solved by adjusting the MCS. For example, different transmission rates can be used for uplink and downlink. For relevant instructions on transmission rates, please refer to the description of topology structure 3 and will not be detailed here.

[0235] Figure 7b is a flow chart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application. This communication method can be applied to the topology shown in Figure 7a. For related descriptions of Figure 7b, please refer to Figures 4b, 5b, or 6b, and will not be described in detail here.

[0236] It is understandable that other interaction processes between the AP and the first communication device are not shown in Figures 4b, 5b, 6b and 7b. In specific implementations, the AP and the first communication device can also transmit other information besides the indication information, which will not be listed here one by one.

[0237] FIG8 is a schematic diagram of the topology of a communication system provided in an embodiment of the present application. The directions of Link 2 and Link 3 are not shown in the topology shown in FIG8 . For the directions of Link 2 and Link 3, reference can be made to the descriptions of Topologies 1 to 4 above, or to the descriptions of unidirectional or bidirectional transmission shown in Table 1. It is understood that Table 1 exemplifies some topologies and does not summarize all configurations of Topologies 1 to 4 above.

[0238] Table 1 exemplifies the physical layer (PHY) through which the signals on each link are generated. The AMPPHY in Table 1 can be understood as a signal that can be used to transmit signals applicable to the AMP field on the corresponding link, and the signal can be generated by a PHY applicable to the AMP field. The WPT shown in Table 1 indicates that the corresponding link transmits a WPT signal. For example, the relevant descriptions of Configuration 1 to Configuration 4 in Table 1 can refer to Topology One, and the relevant descriptions of Configuration 5 to Configuration 6 can refer to Topology Two. The various configurations shown in Table 1 are only examples and should not be understood as limitations on the embodiments of the present application.

[0239] Table 1

[0240] For other explanations of Table 1, refer to the descriptions of Topologies 1 through 4 above and are not further elaborated here. The differences between the communication methods, or the operating principles of different links, shown in Topologies 1 through 4 above also apply to the differences between the other topologies or the operating principles of the links shown below.

[0241] Topology 5.

[0242] Figure 9a is a schematic diagram of the topology of a communication system provided in an embodiment of the present application. As shown in Figure 9a, link 1 (link 1) to link 5 (link 5) can all be communication links, and link 6 (link 6) can be a WPT link. Link 1 and link 3 are both bidirectional links, link 2 is a unidirectional communication link from the excitation device to the AMP STA, link 4 is a unidirectional communication link from the AMP STA to the relay device, and link 5 is a unidirectional communication link from the AMP STA to the AP. Exemplarily, link 5 can be an optional link. For the description of link 5, Figures 10, 11a, 12 and 13 below are also applicable.

[0243] As an example 9A, links 1 to 6 can all support the sub-1 GHz frequency band.

[0244] As another example 9B, links 1 to 5 may all support a sub-1 GHz frequency band, and link 6 may support a 2.4 GHz frequency band.

[0245] As another example 9C, links 1 to 6 can all support the 2.4 GHz frequency band.

[0246] As another example 9D, links 1 to 5 can all support the 2.4 GHz frequency band, and link 6 can support the sub-1 GHz frequency band.

[0247] For other explanations about frequency bands, please refer to Examples 1A to 1D above, which will not be described in detail here.

[0248] For the relevant description of the PPDU format, please refer to the description in the above topology structure 1, which will not be described in detail here.

[0249] For relevant instructions on the occupancy indication information, please refer to the description in the above topology structure 1, which will not be described in detail here.

[0250] In topology five, since link 2 is a unidirectional communication link from the excitation device to the AMP STA, when the excitation device sends an excitation signal, the receiver of the transmitted signal after the excitation signal is reflected by the AMP STA can be a relay device. This means that the sender and receiver of backreflection communication are different devices. Therefore, topology five effectively solves the problem of backreflection self-interference and reduces the difficulty of AP signal processing.

[0251] In topology five, AMP STAs can receive signals through relay devices. Because relay devices support long-distance communication, AMP STAs can receive information from APs through relay devices, thereby increasing coverage. This topology effectively resolves the issue of uplink and downlink imbalance.

[0252] FIG9b is a flow chart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application. The communication method can be applied to the topology shown in FIG9a. As shown in FIG9b, the method includes:

[0253] 901. The AP sends energy transmission indication information to the stimulation device, and correspondingly, the stimulation device receives the indication information.

[0254] Exemplarily, the AP may transmit the power transmission indication information via link 1 .

[0255] As an example, the power transmission indication information may be included in a control frame or a management frame. As another example, the power transmission indication information may be included in a data frame. For relevant descriptions of the power transmission indication information, please refer to the description of the indication information in FIG. 4 b and will not be described in detail here.

[0256] In addition to transmitting energy transmission indication information, the AP and the excitation device can also exchange other information, which is not limited in the embodiments of the present application.

[0257] 902. The excitation device sends a WPT signal to the AMP STA. Correspondingly, the AMP STA can receive the WPT signal.

[0258] For relevant explanations about step 902, please refer to the description of step 402 in Figure 4b, which will not be described in detail here.

[0259] 903. The AP sends communication instruction information to the relay device, and correspondingly, the relay device receives the communication instruction information.

[0260] Exemplarily, the AP may transmit the communication indication information via link 3. As an example, the communication indication information may be included in a control frame or a management frame. As another example, the communication indication information may be included in a data frame. For information regarding the communication indication information, reference may be made to the description of the indication information in step 401 or the description of the PPDU format in step 403, and will not be further described here. In addition to transmitting the communication indication information, the AP and the relay device may also exchange other information, which is not limited in this embodiment of the present application.

[0261] As a possible implementation, the relay device may send an ACK message to the AP. For relevant descriptions of the ACK message, please refer to the description of Figure 4b or Figure 5b, etc., and will not be described in detail here. As another possible implementation, the relay device may not send an ACK message, such as the AP assuming that the relay device has received the communication indication information.

[0262] 904. The relay device sends communication instruction information to the AMP STA. Correspondingly, the AMP STA receives the communication instruction information.

[0263] As an example, the relay device can parse the communication indication information and then generate new communication indication information. The new communication indication information and the relay indication information received by the relay device can be carried in different PPDU formats, or they can be carried in the same PPDU format. For example, the communication indication information received by the relay device can be carried in a Wi-Fi PPDU, and the communication indication information sent by the relay device to the AMP STA can be carried in an AMP PPDU. As another example, the relay device can transparently transmit the communication indication information. For example, the communication indication information can be carried in an AMP PPDU.

[0264] 905. The excitation device sends an excitation signal to the AMP STA. Correspondingly, the AMP STA receives the excitation signal.

[0265] 906. The AMP STA sends a reflected signal to the AP, and correspondingly, the AP receives the reflected signal.

[0266] As a possible implementation, the AMP STA can feed back ACK information to the AP, and the AP can receive the ACK information accordingly. For example, the ACK information can be carried in the reflected signal. The ACK information can be, for example, a confirmation of the communication indication information. For relevant explanations of the ACK information, please refer to the description of Figures 4b or 5b, etc., and will not be described in detail here. As another possible implementation, after the relay device sends the communication indication information, it can assume that the AMP STA has received the communication indication information. That is, after receiving the communication indication information, the AMP STA may not send an ACK information.

[0267] Of course, in addition to carrying ACK information, the reflected signal can also carry other information, such as control information or power transmission status.

[0268] As one possible implementation, after receiving other information from the AMP STA, the AP may send ACK information to the AMP STA via a relay. As another possible implementation, after the AMP STA sends a reflected signal carrying other information, it may be assumed that the AP has received the reflected signal. For details about ACK information, see the description of Figures 4b or 5b.

[0269] In the embodiment of the present application, the communication system shown in topology structure five can effectively solve the problem of back reflection self-interference and the problem of imbalance between uplink and downlink, effectively improve communication efficiency and improve system performance.

[0270] Topology VI.

[0271] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of the topology of a communication system provided in an embodiment of the present application. As shown in Figure 10, links 1 to 5 can all be communication links, and link 6 can be a WPT link. Links 1, 2, and 3 are all bidirectional links, link 4 is a unidirectional communication link from an AMP STA to a relay device, and link 5 is a unidirectional communication link from an AMP STA to an AP.

[0272] For relevant explanations about frequency bands, please refer to Examples 9A to 9D above, which will not be described in detail here.

[0273] For the relevant description of the PPDU format, please refer to the description in the above topology structure 1, which will not be described in detail here.

[0274] For relevant instructions on the occupancy indication information, please refer to the description in the above topology structure 1, which will not be described in detail here.

[0275] For the description of the communication method of topology structure 6, please refer to FIG. 9 b , FIG. 4 b , FIG. 5 b , etc., which will not be shown one by one here.

[0276] With respect to topology structure 6, the AMP STA can receive information from the AP through the relay device, thereby increasing the coverage range through the relay device. Thus, the problem of uplink and downlink imbalance can be effectively solved through the above topology structure 6.

[0277] Topology VII.

[0278] Figure 11a is a schematic diagram of the topology of a communication system provided in an embodiment of the present application. As shown in Figure 11a, links 1 through 5 can all be communication links, and link 6 can be a WPT link. Links 1, 3, and 4 are all bidirectional links, link 2 is a unidirectional communication link from the activation device to the AMP STA, and link 5 is a unidirectional communication link from the AMP STA to the AP.

[0279] For relevant explanations about frequency bands, please refer to Examples 9A to 9D above, which will not be described in detail here.

[0280] For the relevant description of the PPDU format, please refer to the description in the above topology structure 1, which will not be described in detail here.

[0281] For relevant instructions on the occupancy indication information, please refer to the description in the above topology structure 1, which will not be described in detail here.

[0282] In topology 7, since Link 2 is a unidirectional communication link from the excitation device to the AMP STA, the transmitter of the excitation signal and the receiver of the reflected signal are different devices. Therefore, topology 7 effectively addresses the backreflection self-interference issue and reduces the difficulty of AP signal processing.

[0283] In topology seven, AMP STAs can receive information from the AP via the relay device. Because the relay device supports long-distance communication, information sent by the AMP STA can also be received by the AP (or the AMP STA can also send information to the AP via link 5), thereby increasing coverage through the relay device. Therefore, topology seven effectively solves the problem of uplink and downlink imbalance.

[0284] Figure 11b is a flow chart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application. This communication method can be applied to the topology shown in Figure 11a. For an explanation of the communication method for topology seven, please refer to Figures 9b, 4b, and 5b, and will not be described here individually. Figure 11b differs from Figure 9b in that link 4 in Figure 9b is a unidirectional communication link, so the receiver of the reflected signal sent by the AMP STA is not a relay device. In contrast, link 4 in Figure 11b is a bidirectional communication link, so the receiver of the reflected signal sent by the AMP STA can be a relay device. For example, the reflected signal can carry ACK information. Optionally, the relay device can also send the reflected signal to the AP. As an example, the AMP STA can send a reflected signal carrying other information to the relay device via link 4. This other information may include control information or power transmission status. In this case, the relay device can also send ACK information for this other information via link 4. As another example, the AMP STA can send a reflected signal carrying other information to the AP via link 5. In this case, the AP can feedback ACK information via the relay device.

[0285] For other explanations about FIG. 11 b , please refer to FIG. 9 b and so on, which will not be described in detail here.

[0286] Topology 8.

[0287] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of the topology of a communication system provided in an embodiment of the present application. As shown in Figure 12, links 1 through 5 can all be communication links, and link 6 can be a WPT link. Links 1 through 4 are all bidirectional links, while link 5 is a unidirectional communication link from an AMP STA to an AP.

[0288] For relevant explanations about frequency bands, please refer to Examples 9A to 9D above, which will not be described in detail here.

[0289] For the relevant description of the PPDU format, please refer to the description in the above topology structure 1, which will not be described in detail here.

[0290] For relevant instructions on the occupancy indication information, please refer to the description in the above topology structure 1, which will not be described in detail here.

[0291] For the description of the communication method of the topology structure eight, please refer to FIG. 11 b , FIG. 9 b , FIG. 4 b , FIG. 5 b , etc., which will not be shown one by one here.

[0292] For topology eight, the AMP STA can receive the signal sent by the AP through the relay device, which can increase the coverage range. Therefore, the topology eight can effectively solve the problem of uplink and downlink imbalance.

[0293] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of the topology of a communication system provided by an embodiment of the present application. The directions of link 2 and link 4 are not shown in the topology shown in Figure 13. For the directions of link 2 and link 4, please refer to the descriptions of topologies 5 to 8 above, or refer to the descriptions of unidirectional or bidirectional shown in Table 2. It is understood that Table 2 exemplarily shows a partial topology. For relevant descriptions of AMP PHY, please refer to Table 1 and will not be described in detail here.

[0294] Table 2

[0295] For detailed description of Table 2, please refer to the descriptions in the above topology structures 5 to 8, which will not be described in detail here.

[0296] Topology IX

[0297] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of the topology of a communication system provided by an embodiment of the present application. As shown in Figure 14, links 1 (link 1) to 3 (link 3) can all be communication links, and link 5 (link 5) can be a WPT link. Links 1 to 3 are all bidirectional links, and there is no communication link between the incentive device and the AMP STA. Although there is no communication link between the incentive device and the AMP STA, the incentive device can send incentive signals and WPT signals through link 5.

[0298] As an example 14A, links 1 to 3 and link 5 can all support the sub-1 GHz frequency band.

[0299] As another example 14B, links 1 to 3 may all support a sub-1 GHz frequency band, and link 5 may support a 2.4 GHz frequency band.

[0300] As another example 14C, links 1 to 3 and link 5 can all support the 2.4 GHz frequency band.

[0301] As another example 14D, links 1 to 3 may all support the 2.4 GHz frequency band, and link 5 may support the sub-1 GHz frequency band.

[0302] Exemplarily, the AMP STA may feed back ACK information via link 3. FIG14 illustrates link 3 as a bidirectional link. Link 3 may also be a unidirectional communication link from the relay device to the AMP STA, which is not illustrated here one by one.

[0303] For relevant explanations about frequency bands, please refer to Examples 1A to 1D above, which will not be described in detail here.

[0304] For the relevant description of the PPDU format, please refer to the description in the above topology structure 1, which will not be described in detail here.

[0305] For relevant instructions on the occupancy indication information, please refer to the description in the above topology structure 1, which will not be described in detail here.

[0306] For the description of the communication method of topology structure nine, please refer to FIG. 11 b , FIG. 9 b , FIG. 4 b , FIG. 5 b , etc., which will not be shown one by one here.

[0307] For topology nine, there is no communication link between the AMP STA and the excitation device. Therefore, the receiving end of the reflected signal is different from the transmitting end of the excitation signal. This can effectively solve the problem of back reflection self-interference and reduce the difficulty of AP signal processing.

[0308] For topology structure nine, the AMP STA can send information to the AP through the relay device, and receive information from the AP through the relay device. The relay device can increase the downlink coverage range, so the above topology structure nine can effectively solve the problem of uplink and downlink link imbalance.

[0309] Topology 10.

[0310] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram of the topology of a communication system provided in an embodiment of the present application. As shown in Figure 15 , links 1 through 4 can all be communication links, and link 5 can be a WPT link. Links 1 through 3 are all bidirectional links, while link 4 is a unidirectional communication link from the stimulus device to the AMP STA.

[0311] Of course, link 4 can also be a unidirectional communication link from the AMP STA to the stimulation device (not shown in FIG15 ), or link 4 can be a bidirectional link (not shown in FIG15 ).

[0312] For relevant explanations about frequency bands, please refer to Examples 14A to 14D above, etc., which will not be described in detail here.

[0313] For the relevant description of the PPDU format, please refer to the description in the above topology structure 1, which will not be described in detail here.

[0314] For relevant instructions on the occupancy indication information, please refer to the description in the above topology structure 1, which will not be described in detail here.

[0315] For the description of the communication method of topology structure 10, please refer to FIG. 11 b , FIG. 9 b , FIG. 4 b , FIG. 5 b , etc., which will not be shown one by one here.

[0316] For topology structure 10, the AMP STA can send information to the AP through the relay device, and receive information from the AP through the relay device. The relay device can increase the downlink coverage range, so the above topology structure 10 can effectively solve the problem of uplink and downlink imbalance.

[0317] In Topology 10, since Link 4 is a unidirectional communication link from the excitation device to the AMP STA, when the excitation device sends an excitation signal, the receiver of the reflected signal after the excitation signal is reflected by the AMP STA can be a relay device. This means that the sender and receiver of backreflection communication are different devices. Therefore, Topology 10 effectively solves the problem of backreflection self-interference and reduces the difficulty of AP signal processing.

[0318] Figure 16 is a schematic diagram of the topology of a communication system provided by an embodiment of the present application. The topology shown in Figure 16 does not show the direction of link 4. For details about the direction of link 4, please refer to the descriptions of topologies 9 to 10 above, or to the description in Table 3. For other explanations of Table 3, please refer to Table 1 or Table 2 and will not be detailed here.

[0319] Table 3

[0320] For detailed description of Table 3, please refer to the description of topology structure 9 to topology structure 10 above, which will not be described in detail here.

[0321] Topology 11.

[0322] Figure 17a is a schematic diagram of a topology structure of a communication system provided by an embodiment of the present application. The topology structure shown in Figure 17a can be referred to the description in Table 4.

[0323] Table 4

[0324] As shown in Figure 17a, link 1 (link 1) to link 2 (link 2) can all be communication links, and link 3 (link 3) can be a WPT link. Link 1 to link 2 are all bidirectional links. For example, the excitation device can transmit the excitation signal and the WPT signal through link 3. The topology shown in Figure 17a can effectively solve the problem of back reflection self-interference. Figure 17c is a flow chart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application. The communication method can be applied to the topology shown in Figure 17a. The reflected signal sent by the AMP STA can carry ACK information for the communication indication information. Exemplarily, the reflected signal can also carry other information. At this time, the AP can send ACK information for the other information. For the relevant description of Figure 17c, please refer to the aforementioned method and will not be described in detail here.

[0325] As shown in Figure 17b, there may also be a link 4 between the stimulus device and the AMP STA. For example, the link 4 may be a unidirectional communication link from the stimulus device to the AMP STA, or a unidirectional communication link from the AMP STA to the stimulus device, or a bidirectional link.

[0326] In the various topologies and corresponding communication methods described above, some details described in detail in some topologies may not be fully described in other topologies, and some details described in detail in some communication methods may not be fully described in other methods. Therefore, for details not described in detail in the various topologies or communication methods described above, reference may be made to other topologies or communication methods.

[0327] The following describes a communication device according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0328] The present application divides the functional modules of the communication device according to the above-mentioned method embodiment. For example, each functional module can be divided according to each function, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing module. The above-mentioned integrated modules can be implemented in the form of hardware or in the form of software functional modules. It should be noted that the division of modules in this application is schematic and is only a logical function division. There may be other division methods in actual implementation. The communication device of the embodiment of the present application will be described in detail below with reference to Figures 18 to 20.

[0329] Figure 18 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of the present application. As shown in Figure 18, the communication device includes a processing module 1801 and a transceiver module 1802. The transceiver module 1802 can implement corresponding communication functions, and the processing module 1801 is used to implement corresponding processing functions. For example, the transceiver module 1802 can also be referred to as an interface, a communication interface, or a communication module.

[0330] In some embodiments of the present application, the communication device can be used to perform the actions performed by the AMP STA in the method embodiments described above. In this case, the AMP STA can be the AMP device itself, or a chip or functional module configurable within the device. The transceiver module 1802 is used to perform the AMP STA's transceiver-related operations described in the method embodiments described above, and the processing module 1801 is used to perform the AMP STA's processing-related operations described in the method embodiments described above.

[0331] Exemplarily, the processing module 1801 may be configured to receive or input a WPT signal and receive or input communication indication information through the transceiver module 1802. Exemplarily, the processing module 1801 may be configured to receive or input an excitation signal and transmit or output a reflection signal of the excitation signal through the transceiver module 1802.

[0332] Exemplarily, the processing module 1801 may generate a reflection signal based on the excitation signal.

[0333] Using Figure 18 , in other embodiments of the present application, the communication device can be used to execute the actions performed by the excitation device (or first communication device) in the above method embodiments. In this case, the communication device can be the excitation device itself (or the device itself) or a chip or functional module that can be configured in the excitation device (or device). The transceiver module 1802 is used to execute the transceiver-related operations of the excitation device (or first communication device) in the above method embodiments, and the processing module 1801 is used to execute the processing-related operations of the excitation device (or first communication device) in the above method embodiments.

[0334] Exemplarily, the transceiver module 1802 may be configured to receive or input power transmission indication information; and the processing module 1801 may be configured to send or output a WPT signal based on the power transmission indication information.

[0335] Illustratively, the transceiver module 1802 may be configured to receive or input instruction information.

[0336] Illustratively, the transceiver module 1802 may also be configured to send or output an excitation signal.

[0337] Illustratively, the transceiver module 1802 may also be configured to send or output occupancy indication information.

[0338] Using Figure 18 , in other embodiments of the present application, the communication device can be used to perform the actions performed by the relay device (or first communication device) in the above method embodiments. In this case, the communication device can be the relay device itself or a chip or functional module that can be configured in the relay device. The transceiver module 1802 is used to perform the transceiver-related operations of the relay device (or first communication device) in the above method embodiments, and the processing module 1801 is used to perform the processing-related operations of the relay device (or first communication device) in the above method embodiments.

[0339] Exemplarily, the transceiver module 1802 may be configured to receive or input communication indication information (or indication information).

[0340] Referring to Figure 18 , in other embodiments of the present application, the communication device can be used to perform the actions performed by the AP in the above method embodiments. In this case, the communication device can be the Wi-Fi device itself, or a chip or functional module configurable in the device. Transceiver module 1802 is used to perform the AP's transceiver-related operations in the above method embodiments, and processing module 1801 is used to perform the AP's processing-related operations in the above method embodiments.

[0341] Exemplarily, the transceiver module 1802 may be configured to send or output power transmission indication information. Exemplarily, the transceiver module 1802 may be configured to send or output communication indication information.

[0342] Optionally, in each of the above embodiments, the communication device may further include a storage module, which may be used to store instructions and / or data, and the processing module 1801 may read the instructions and / or data in the storage module so that the communication device implements the above method embodiment.

[0343] In the above embodiments, the specific descriptions of terms or steps such as WPT signal, excitation signal, reflected signal, WPT link, communication link, frequency band, PPDU, etc. can be referred to the introduction in the above method embodiments and will not be described in detail here.

[0344] The specific descriptions of the transceiver module and the processing module shown in the above embodiments are only examples. For the specific functions or execution steps of the transceiver module and the processing module, please refer to the above method embodiments and will not be described in detail here.

[0345] The above describes the communication device according to the embodiment of the present application. The following describes possible product forms of the communication device. Any product having the functions of the communication device described in FIG18 above falls within the scope of protection of the embodiment of the present application. The following description is for illustrative purposes only and does not limit the product forms of the communication device according to the embodiment of the present application to these examples.

[0346] In one possible implementation, in the communication device shown in FIG18 , the processing module 1801 may be one or more processors, and the transceiver module 1802 may be a transceiver, or the transceiver module 1802 may be a transmitting module and a receiving module, wherein the transmitting module may be a transmitter and the receiving module may be a receiver, and the transmitting module and the receiving module are integrated into a single device, such as a transceiver. In the embodiment of the present application, the processor and the transceiver may be coupled, etc., and the embodiment of the present application does not limit the connection method between the processor and the transceiver. During the execution of the above method, the process of sending information in the above method may be the process of the processor outputting the above information. When outputting the above information, the processor outputs the above information to the transceiver so that the transceiver transmits it. After being output by the processor, the above information may also need to undergo other processing before reaching the transceiver. Similarly, the process of receiving information in the above method may be the process of the processor receiving the above information as input. When the processor receives the input information, the transceiver receives the above information and inputs it into the processor. Furthermore, after the transceiver receives the above information, the above information may need to be processed further before being input into the processor.

[0347] As shown in FIG. 19 , the communication device 190 includes one or more processors 1920 and a transceiver 1910 .

[0348] Reusing Figure 19, in some embodiments of the present application, the communication device can be used to execute the steps, methods, or functions performed by the above-mentioned AMP STA.

[0349] Reusing Figure 19, in some other embodiments of the present application, the communication device is used to execute the steps, methods or functions performed by the above-mentioned stimulation device.

[0350] Reusing Figure 19, in some other embodiments of the present application, the communication device is used to execute the steps, methods or functions performed by the above-mentioned relay device.

[0351] Reusing Figure 19, in some other embodiments of the present application, the communication device is used to execute the steps, methods or functions executed by the above-mentioned first communication device.

[0352] Reusing Figure 19, in some other embodiments of the present application, the communication device is used to execute the steps, methods or functions performed by the above-mentioned AP.

[0353] For example, the processor 1920 may be configured to execute the functions or steps implemented by the processing module 1801 shown in FIG18 , and the transceiver 1910 may be configured to execute the functions or steps implemented by the transceiver module 1802 shown in FIG18 . For detailed descriptions of the processor 1920 and the transceiver 1910 , reference may be made to FIG18 or the method embodiment shown above, and will not be described in detail here.

[0354] In various implementations of the communication device shown in FIG19 , the transceiver may include a receiver and a transmitter, wherein the receiver is configured to perform a receiving function (or operation) and the transmitter is configured to perform a transmitting function (or operation). The transceiver is configured to communicate with other devices / apparatuses via a transmission medium.

[0355] Optionally, the communication device 190 may further include one or more memories 1930 for storing program instructions and / or data. The memory 1930 is coupled to the processor 1920. The coupling in the embodiment of the present application is an indirect coupling or communication connection between the communication devices, units or modules, which can be electrical, mechanical or other forms, and is used for information exchange between the communication devices, units or modules. The processor 1920 may operate in conjunction with the memory 1930. The processor 1920 may execute program instructions stored in the memory 1930. Optionally, at least one of the above-mentioned one or more memories may be included in the processor.

[0356] The specific connection medium between the transceiver 1910, processor 1920, and memory 1930 is not limited in the embodiments of the present application. In Figure 19, the memory 1930, processor 1920, and transceiver 1910 are connected via a bus 1940. The bus is represented by a bold line in Figure 19. The connection methods between other components are only for schematic illustration and are not limiting. The bus can be divided into an address bus, a data bus, a control bus, etc. For ease of illustration, only one bold line is used in Figure 19, but this does not mean that there is only one bus or one type of bus.

[0357] In the embodiments of the present application, the processor may be a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor, an application-specific integrated circuit, a field programmable gate array or other programmable logic device, a discrete gate or transistor logic device, a discrete hardware component, etc., and may implement or execute the various methods, steps, and logic block diagrams disclosed in the embodiments of the present application. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor or any conventional processor, etc. The steps of the methods disclosed in the embodiments of the present application may be directly implemented as being executed by a hardware processor, or may be executed by a combination of hardware and software modules in the processor, etc.

[0358] In the embodiment of the present application, memory may include but is not limited to non-volatile memories such as hard disk drive (HDD) or solid-state drive (SSD), random access memory (RAM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), read-only memory (ROM) or portable read-only memory (CD-ROM), etc. Memory is any storage medium that can be used to carry or store program code in the form of instructions or data structures, and can be read and / or written by a computer (such as the communication device shown in the present application), but is not limited thereto. The memory in the embodiment of the present application can also be a circuit or other arbitrarily capable of realizing a storage function, for storing program instructions and / or data.

[0359] Exemplarily, the processor 1920 is primarily used to process communication protocols and communication data, control the entire communication device, execute software programs, and process software program data. The memory 1930 is primarily used to store software programs and data. The transceiver 1910 may include a control circuit and an antenna. The control circuit is primarily used to convert baseband signals into radio frequency signals and process radio frequency signals. The antenna is primarily used to transmit and receive radio frequency signals in the form of electromagnetic waves. Input / output devices, such as a touch screen, display, and keyboard, are primarily used to receive user input and output data to the user.

[0360] For example, when the communication device is powered on, the processor 1920 can read the software program in the memory 1930, interpret and execute the instructions of the software program, and process the data of the software program. When data needs to be sent wirelessly, the processor 1920 performs baseband processing on the data to be sent and outputs the baseband signal to the radio frequency circuit. The radio frequency circuit performs radio frequency processing on the baseband signal and then transmits the radio frequency signal to the outside in the form of electromagnetic waves through the antenna. When data is sent to the communication device, the radio frequency circuit receives the radio frequency signal through the antenna, converts the radio frequency signal into a baseband signal, and outputs the baseband signal to the processor 1920. The processor 1920 converts the baseband signal into data and processes the data.

[0361] In another implementation, the RF circuit and antenna may be provided independently of the processor performing baseband processing. For example, in a distributed scenario, the RF circuit and antenna may be remotely arranged independent of the communication device.

[0362] The communication device shown in the embodiment of the present application may also have more components than those in Figure 19, and the embodiment of the present application is not limited to this. The method performed by the processor and transceiver shown above is only an example. For the specific steps performed by the processor and transceiver, please refer to the method described above.

[0363] In another possible implementation, in the communication device shown in FIG18 , the processing module 1801 may be one or more logic circuits, and the transceiver module 1802 may be an input / output interface, or may be called a communication interface, or an interface circuit, or an interface, etc. Alternatively, the transceiver module 1802 may be a sending module and a receiving module, the sending module may be an output interface, the receiving module may be an input interface, and the sending module and the receiving module may be integrated into one module, such as an input / output interface. As shown in FIG20 , the communication device shown in FIG20 includes a logic circuit 2001 and an interface 2002. That is, the processing module 1801 may be implemented using a logic circuit 2001, and the transceiver module 1802 may be implemented using an interface 2002. The logic circuit 2001 may be a chip, a processing circuit, an integrated circuit, or a system on chip (SoC) chip, etc., and the interface 2002 may be a communication interface, an input / output interface, a pin, etc. For example, FIG20 is illustrated using the communication device as a chip, and the chip includes a logic circuit 2001 and an interface 2002.

[0364] In the embodiment of the present application, the logic circuit and the interface may also be coupled to each other. The embodiment of the present application does not limit the specific connection method of the logic circuit and the interface. For example, the logic circuit 2001 can be used to execute the functions or steps implemented by the processing module 1801 shown in Figure 18, and the interface 2002 can be used to execute the functions or steps implemented by the transceiver module 1802 shown in Figure 18. For a specific description of the logic circuit 2001 and the interface 2002, please refer to Figure 18 or the method embodiment shown above, and will not be described in detail here.

[0365] The communication device shown in the embodiment of the present application can implement the method provided in the embodiment of the present application in the form of hardware, or can implement the method provided in the embodiment of the present application in the form of software, etc., and the embodiment of the present application is not limited to this.

[0366] The present application also provides a communication system, which includes an AMP STA and an excitation device; or, the communication system includes an AMP STA and a first communication device; or, the communication system includes an AMP STA, an excitation device, and a relay device. Optionally, the communication system may also include an AP.

[0367] In addition, the present application also provides a computer program, which is used to implement the operations and / or processing performed by each communication device in the method provided by the present application.

[0368] The present application also provides a computer-readable storage medium having computer code stored therein. When the computer code is run on a computer, the computer executes the operations and / or processing performed by each communication device in the method provided by the present application.

[0369] The present application also provides a computer program product, which includes computer code or computer program. When the computer code or computer program is run on a computer, the operations and / or processes performed by the method provided in the present application are executed.

[0370] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, communication devices, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the communication device embodiments described above are only schematic. For example, the division of the modules is only a logical function division. In actual implementation, there may be other division methods, such as multiple modules or components can be combined or integrated into another system, or some features can be ignored or not executed. In addition, the mutual coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed can be an indirect coupling or communication connection through some interfaces, communication devices or modules, or can be electrical, mechanical or other forms of connection.

[0371] The modules described as separate components may or may not be physically separate, and the components shown as modules may or may not be physical modules, that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network modules. Some or all of the modules may be selected according to actual needs to achieve the technical effects of the solutions provided in the embodiments of the present application.

[0372] In addition, the functional modules in the various embodiments of the present application may be integrated into a processing module, or each module may exist physically separately, or two or more modules may be integrated into a single module. The above-mentioned integrated modules may be implemented in the form of hardware or software functional modules.

[0373] If the integrated module is implemented in the form of a software functional module and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of the present application is essentially or the part that contributes to the prior art, or all or part of the technical solution can be embodied in the form of a software product, and the computer software product is stored in a readable storage medium, including a number of instructions for enabling a computer device (which can be a personal computer, a server, or a network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the method described in each embodiment of the present application. The aforementioned readable storage medium includes: various media that can store program codes, such as a USB flash drive, a mobile hard disk, a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a magnetic disk or an optical disk.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that: The method is applied to an ambient energy AMP site STA, and the method comprises: Receiving a wireless energy transmission WPT signal and receiving communication indication information, wherein the communication indication information is used to indicate information for the AMP STA to communicate; An excitation signal is received, and a reflection signal of the excitation signal is sent.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that The receiving the WPT signal comprises: receiving the WPT signal from a first communication device; The receiving communication indication information comprises: receiving the communication indication information from the first communication device; The receiving the excitation signal includes: receiving the excitation signal from the first communication device.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that The sending of the reflected signal of the excitation signal comprises: A reflected signal of the excitation signal is sent to an access point AP.

4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The receiving the WPT signal comprises: receiving the WPT signal from an excitation device; The receiving of the communication indication information includes: receiving the communication indication information from a relay device; or receiving the communication indication information from an access point AP; The receiving the excitation signal includes: receiving the excitation signal from the excitation device.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that The sending of the reflected signal of the excitation signal comprises: A reflection signal of the excitation signal is sent to the relay device.

6. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that The sending of the reflected signal of the excitation signal comprises: A reflection signal of the excitation signal is sent to the AP.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: The link used to transmit the WPT signal is a WPT link, or the link used to transmit the excitation signal is a communication link.

8. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that The frequency band supported by the communication link is different from the frequency band supported by the WPT link.

9. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that: The frequency band supported by the communication link is the same as the frequency band supported by the WPT link, and the communication link is a unidirectional communication link.

10. A communication method, characterized in that: The method is applied to an excitation device, and the method comprises: Receiving energy transmission indication information from an access point AP, wherein the energy transmission indication information is used to indicate information that an environmental energy AMP station STA receives a wireless energy transmission WPT signal; Send a WPT signal to the AMP STA based on the power transmission indication information.

11. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that The receiving of energy transmission indication information from the access point AP includes: Receive indication information, where the indication information includes the power transmission indication information and communication indication information, and the communication indication information is used to indicate information for the AMP STA to communicate.

12. The method according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that: The power transmission indication information includes at least one item: an identifier of the AMP STA or wake-up information of the AMP STA.

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that The energy transmission indication information also includes at least one of the following: the transmission time of the WPT signal, the waveform information of the WPT signal, and the wake-up information of the excitation device.

14. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that: The communication indication information includes at least one of the following: The control information, scheduling information and data type to be reported by the AMPSTA.

15. The method according to any one of claims 10 to 14, characterized in that: The sending a WPT signal to the AMP STA based on the energy transmission indication information includes: The WPT signal is sent to the AMPSTA on a WPT link based on the power transmission indication information.

16. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 15, characterized in that: The method further comprises: An excitation signal is sent to the AMPSTA over a communication link.

17. The method according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that The frequency band supported by the communication link is different from the frequency band supported by the WPT link.

18. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that The method further comprises: Occupancy indication information is sent on the communication link, where the occupancy indication information is used to indicate that the communication link has been occupied.

19. The method according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that The frequency band supported by the communication link is the same as the frequency band supported by the WPT link, and the communication link is a unidirectional communication link.

20. The method according to any one of claims 15 to 19, characterized in that: The frequency band supported by the WPT link includes 2.4 GHz or below 1 GHz.

21. A communication device, characterized in that: The method comprises a module for executing the method according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

22. A communication device, characterized in that: Comprising a module for executing the method according to any one of claims 10-20.

23. A communication device, characterized in that: The method comprises a processor configured to execute the method according to any one of claims 1 to 20.

24. A communication device, characterized in that: comprising a logic circuit and an interface, wherein the logic circuit and the interface are coupled; The interface is used to input and / or output information, and the logic circuit is used to execute the method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, or the logic circuit is used to execute the method according to any one of claims 10 to 20.

25. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that: The computer-readable storage medium is used to store a computer program. When the computer program is executed, the method according to any one of claims 1 to 20 is executed.

26. A computer program product, characterized in that When the computer program product is executed, the method according to any one of claims 1 to 20 is performed.

27. A communication system, characterized in that: The communication system comprises an ambient energy AMP station STA and an excitation device, wherein the AMP STA is used to execute the method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, and the excitation device is used to execute the method according to any one of claims 10 to 20.

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