Wireless communication device and wireless communication method

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a wireless communication device and a wireless communication method that enable coexistence with another wireless communication. Provided is a wireless communication device comprising a control unit that, when operating so as to acquire transmission opportunities which periodically arrive at time intervals determined in advance with a first wireless communication device, performs control to: receive first signals which include information pertaining to the surrounding communication statuses and which are transmitted from other wireless communication devices including the first wireless communication device; determine, on the basis of the information included in the first signals, whether or not to allow spatial reuse communication with respect to a second wireless communication device; and, when the spatial reuse communication is determined to be allowed, set, for the second wireless communication device, a first period in which the spatial reuse communication is allowed in each time interval. The present disclosure is applicable to, for example, a wireless communication device constituting a wireless LAN system.

Description

Wireless communication device and wireless communication method

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a wireless communication device and a wireless communication method, and more particularly to a wireless communication device and a wireless communication method that are capable of coexisting with other wireless communications.

[0002] In recent years, data transmission for real-time applications such as real-time games has been performed in wireless LAN (Local Area Network) systems, and low latency data transmission is required. For example, a technique disclosed in Patent Document 1 is known as a technique for transmitting data for real-time applications.

[0003] In wireless LAN (Local Area Network) systems, the R-TWT (Restricted Target Wakeup Time) technology has been studied as a method for transmitting data suitable for real-time applications.

[0004] Special Publication No. 2023-525062

[0005] In conventional R-TWT technology, it is desirable to set the duration of the service period (SP) to the minimum required for data transmission specified by the traffic identifier (TID), but considering the time required for data retransmission, a longer duration is required. Also, in R-TWT technology, because the service period arrives periodically, in order to transmit data received from an application with less delay, it is necessary to set the required duration to a longer period to eliminate jitter.

[0006] If the service period duration is set to a longer duration, the time available for other wireless communications other than the wireless communication transmitting the data specified by the TID will be relatively reduced, which may cause delays in data transmission by other wireless communications. Therefore, there has been a demand for a technology that allows coexistence with other wireless communications when using R-TWT technology.

[0007] The present disclosure has been made in light of these circumstances, and aims to enable coexistence with other wireless communications.

[0008] A wireless communication device of one aspect of the present disclosure is a wireless communication device that, when operating by acquiring transmission opportunities that arrive periodically at predetermined time intervals with a first wireless communication device, receives a first signal containing information regarding surrounding communication conditions transmitted from other wireless communication devices including the first wireless communication device, determines whether to allow spatial reuse communication with a second wireless communication device based on the information contained in the first signal, and if it determines that spatial reuse communication is allowed, controls the second wireless communication device to set a first period during which spatial reuse communication is allowed at the time interval.

[0009] A wireless communication method according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes, when a wireless communication device operates by acquiring transmission opportunities that arrive periodically at predetermined time intervals with a first wireless communication device, receiving a first signal including information regarding surrounding communication conditions transmitted from another wireless communication device including the first wireless communication device, determining whether to allow spatial reuse communication with a second wireless communication device based on the information included in the first signal, and, if it is determined that spatial reuse communication is allowed, setting a first period for allowing spatial reuse communication at the time interval for the second wireless communication device.

[0010] In a wireless communication device and wireless communication method according to one aspect of the present disclosure, when the device operates by acquiring transmission opportunities that arrive periodically at predetermined time intervals with a first wireless communication device, a first signal including information regarding the surrounding communication conditions is received, which is transmitted from another wireless communication device including the first wireless communication device, and based on the information included in the first signal, it is determined whether or not to allow spatial reuse communication with a second wireless communication device, and if it is determined that spatial reuse communication is allowed, a first period during which spatial reuse communication is allowed at the time interval is set for the second wireless communication device.

[0011] A wireless communication device according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a wireless communication device that includes a first wireless communication device that operates by acquiring transmission opportunities that arrive periodically at predetermined time intervals, detects that a first period has been set that allows spatial reuse communication during the time interval, and controls data transmission between the first wireless communication device and a second wireless communication device via spatial reuse communication during the first period.

[0012] A wireless communication method according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a wireless communication method including: a wireless communication device detecting that a first period allowing spatial reuse communication is set by a first wireless communication device that operates by acquiring transmission opportunities that arrive periodically at predetermined time intervals; and performing data transmission between a first wireless communication device and a second wireless communication device via spatial reuse communication during the first period.

[0013] In a wireless communication device and wireless communication method according to one aspect of the present disclosure, a first wireless communication device that operates by acquiring transmission opportunities that arrive periodically at predetermined time intervals detects that a first period that allows spatial reuse communication during the time intervals has been set, and data transmission is carried out between the first wireless communication device and a second wireless communication device using spatial reuse communication during the first period.

[0014] It should be noted that the wireless communication device according to one aspect of the present disclosure may be an independent device or an internal block constituting a single device.

[0015] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an embodiment of a wireless communication system to which the present disclosure is applied. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of data transmission via wireless communication implementing spatial reuse. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a sequence for exchanging information for determining whether spatial reuse can be implemented between wireless communication devices. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating another example of a sequence for exchanging information for determining whether spatial reuse can be implemented between wireless communication devices. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a sequence for data transmission via wireless communication implementing spatial reuse. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a conventional method for setting a service period. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a schematic example of a method for setting a service period that allows spatial reuse. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a schematic example of a method for setting a service period that prohibits spatial reuse. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a schematic example of a setting method when spatial reuse is combined with other spatial reuse implementations. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a Broadcast TWT Parameter Set field. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a detailed example of the configuration of an R-TWT Spatial Reuse Parameter Set. FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an embodiment of a wireless communication device to which the present disclosure is applied. FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of an embodiment of a wireless communication module to which the present disclosure is applied. FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of spatial reuse setting processing to which the present disclosure is applied. FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of computer hardware. FIG. 15 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic example of a smartphone to which the present technology is applied. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of an in-vehicle device to which the present technology is applied;FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of a wireless AP to which the present technology is applied;FIG.

[0016] <System Configuration> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example configuration of an embodiment of a wireless communication system to which the present disclosure is applied.

[0017] 1, BSS #1, a basic service set of a wireless local area network (LAN) indicated by a dashed line A1, is formed. BSS #1 forms a network including communication terminals STA #1 to STA #4, indicated by white circles, within the radio wave coverage area of ​​access point AP #1, indicated by a white square.

[0018] Adjacent to BSS #1 is an overlapping basic service set (OBSS) indicated by dashed line B1. The OBSS forms a network including communication terminals OBSS #1 to OBSS #3 indicated by dotted circles within the radio wave coverage area of ​​an access point OBSS AP indicated by a dotted square.

[0019] In Figure 1, as indicated by the double arrows C1 and C2, communication terminals STA #1 and STA #2 of BSS #1 are located in positions where they can detect signals from access point OBSS AP, and therefore their transmission signals interfere with each other.

[0020] <Spatial Reuse Communication> Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of data transmission by wireless communication implementing spatial reuse (spatial reuse communication). In Fig. 2, the configurations of BSS #1 and OBSS correspond to the configurations in Fig. 1, and the same description will be omitted as appropriate.

[0021] In Figure 2, arrows D1 and D2 indicate data transmission, and schematically show a state in which spatial reuse is performed for data transmission from access point OBSS AP to communication terminal OBSS STA #1 during data transmission from communication terminal STA #1 to access point AP #1.

[0022] Here, dashed line A2 indicates the radio wave coverage area centered on communication terminal STA #1 of BSS #1, and within that radio wave coverage area are the OBSS access point OBSS AP and communication terminal OBSS STA #1. In other words, as indicated by dotted arrows C3 and C4, access point OBSS AP and communication terminal OBSS STA #1 are experiencing interference from data transmission from communication terminal STA #1, but are able to transmit data without affecting wireless communication.

[0023] For example, when transmitting data to communication terminal OBSS STA #1, the access point OBSS AP can control the transmission power as shown by the two-dot chain line B2 so as not to affect the data reception of access point AP #1, which is receiving the data transmitted from communication terminal STA #1. At this time, the access point OBSS AP can estimate transmission parameters when controlling the transmission power and transmit data to communication terminal OBSS STA #1 using spatial reuse communications, as shown by arrow D2.

[0024] In the present disclosure, a related wireless communication device (e.g., AP #1, STA #1 connected to BSS #1) notifies an adjacent wireless communication device (e.g., OBSS AP, OBSS STA #1 connected to OBSS) about whether or not data transmission using such spatial reuse communication can be performed, thereby enabling the adjacent wireless communication device to perform data transmission using spatial reuse communication.

[0025] Fig. 3 shows an example of a sequence for exchanging information between wireless communication devices to determine whether spatial reuse is possible. Fig. 3 shows a sequence for determining the duration of a service period when implementing R-TWT (Restricted TWT) by determining whether spatial reuse is necessary based on the surrounding network conditions (communication conditions). Note that R-TWT operates by seizing transmission opportunities that periodically arrive at predetermined time intervals between wireless communication devices (e.g., between communication terminal STA #1 and access point AP #1). In other words, in R-TWT, service periods arrive periodically.

[0026] In Fig. 3, access point AP #1 and communication terminals STA #1 to STA #4 correspond to the configurations in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 and form BSS #1. Fig. 3 illustrates a flow in which access point AP #1 serves as the owner of the R-TWT and determines whether spatial reuse can be implemented. However, instead of access point AP #1, any of the communication terminals STA #1 to STA #4 associated with the R-TWT may be configured to determine whether spatial reuse can be implemented.

[0027] First, access point AP #1 transmits an R-TWT SR Parameter Request to communication terminal STA #1 (S11). In response to the R-TWT SR Parameter Request transmitted from access point AP #1, communication terminal STA #1 determines the presence and operating status of surrounding OBSSs and returns an R-TWT SR Parameter Response stating this to access point AP #1 (S12).

[0028] The access point AP #1 receives the R-TWT SR Parameter Response transmitted from the communication terminal STA #1, and determines whether to allow spatial reuse in order to secure the required R-TWT service period, depending on the operating conditions of the surrounding OBSS. For example, if the access point AP #1 determines that spatial reuse is necessary to secure the required service period due to the presence of an OBSS, it transmits an R-TWT SR Parameter Indication indicating this to the communication terminals STA #1 to STA #4 (S13).

[0029] Furthermore, if the access point AP #1 wants to exclusively use the R-TWT service period without an OBSS, it may transmit an R-TWT SR Parameter Indication indicating that spatial reuse is not permitted. Note that it may also set both the duration for which spatial reuse is permitted and the duration for which spatial reuse is not permitted.

[0030] Fig. 4 shows another example of a sequence for exchanging information between wireless communication devices to determine whether spatial reuse is possible. In Fig. 4, access point AP #1 and communication terminals STA #1 to STA #4 correspond to the configurations in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, as in Fig. 3, and similar descriptions will be omitted where appropriate.

[0031] In Figure 4, when there are multiple wireless communication devices associated with the R-TWT or to apply the technology disclosed herein to Broadcast TWT, access point AP #1 checks the parameters of all communication terminals STA associated with the R-TWT.

[0032] That is, the access point AP #1 simultaneously transmits an R-TWT SR Parameter Request to the communication terminals STA #1, STA #2, STA #3, and STA #4 that are involved in the transmission and reception of data specified by the same TID (Traffic Identifier), using communication such as broadcast (S21).

[0033] In response to the R-TWT SR Parameter Request from access point AP #1, communication terminal STA #1 determines the presence and operating status of surrounding OBSSs and returns an R-TWT SR Parameter Response describing this to access point AP #1 (S23). Each of communication terminals STA #2 to STA #4 determines the presence of surrounding OBSSs, etc., in the same way as communication terminal STA #1, and returns an R-TWT SR Parameter Response to access point AP #1 (S22, S24, S25).

[0034] Here, a method is illustrated in which each communication terminal STA individually transmits an R-TWT SR Parameter Response to access point AP #1, but other communication methods may also be used, such as a method in which multiple users communicate and simultaneously return the responses.

[0035] The access point AP #1 receives the R-TWT SR Parameter Response from the communication terminals STA #1 to STA #4, and determines, based on this information, whether to allow spatial reuse in order to secure the required R-TWT service period, depending on the operating status of the surrounding OBSS. For example, if the access point AP #1 determines that spatial reuse is necessary to secure the required service period due to the presence of an OBSS, it transmits an R-TWT SR Parameter Indication indicating this to the communication terminals STA #1 to STA #4 (S26).

[0036] Furthermore, if the access point AP #1 wants to occupy the R-TWT service period without the OBSS, it may transmit an R-TWT SR Parameter Indication indicating that spatial reuse is not permitted. Note that it may also set both the duration for which spatial reuse is permitted and the duration for which spatial reuse is not permitted.

[0037] Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a sequence of data transmission by wireless communication using spatial reuse (spatial reuse communication). In Fig. 5, AP #1, STA #1, OBSS AP, and OBSS STA #1 correspond to the configuration in Fig. 2, and show a state in which a communication terminal STA #1 forming BSS #1 sets a predetermined service period (R-TWT SP) to access point AP #1 and periodically transmits data (R-TWT SP Data Transmit) (S31 to S33).

[0038] Here, the service period (R-TWT SP) is set longer than normal for the wake interval (R-TWT Wake Interval), indicating that spatial reuse is permitted. This indicates that data transmission using spatial multiplexing technology (SR Data Transmit) is being performed from the access point OBSS AP that forms the OBSS to the communication terminal OBSS STA #1 (S41, S42).

[0039] That is, as indicated by the dashed arrow, the access point OBSS AP detects the data signal transmitted from the communication terminal STA #1 during the service period (R-TWT SP), sets the transmission parameters within a range that does not affect the wireless communication, and transmits the spatial reuse data. Furthermore, since the data transmission by the communication terminal STA #1 is performed periodically, the access point OBSS AP can also utilize this periodicity to transmit spatial reuse data to the communication terminal OBSS STA #1 almost periodically.

[0040] 5, the access point OBSS AP is controlled to terminate spatial reuse data transmission to the communication terminal OBSS STA #1 before the communication terminal STA #1 finishes transmitting data, but the access point OBSS AP may continue transmitting data after the communication terminal STA #1 finishes transmitting data. Alternatively, after the communication terminal STA #1 finishes transmitting data, the access point OBSS AP may release the control of transmission parameters and transmit data to the communication terminal OBSS STA #1.

[0041] <Setting the R-TWT SP> Next, the setting of the service period (R-TWT SP) in the R-TWT will be described in detail. For comparison, Fig. 6 shows a schematic diagram of a conventional method for setting the service period. In Fig. 6, the upper part of the two time axes shows the setting status of the service period of the own BSS in chronological order, and the lower part shows the setting status of the service period of the OBSS in chronological order.

[0042] 6, the normal duration (Normal Duration) is set to about half the wake interval (R-TWT Wake Interval), during which data transmission specified by TID is prioritized. In other words, communications other than data transmission specified by TID are carried out using the time in the wake interval that does not fall within the service period (R-TWT SP).

[0043] Therefore, in the absence of an OBSS, even if R-TWT communication is performed at this frequency, it is thought that there will be little practical impact on communications within the BSS itself. However, the bottom part of Figure 6 shows an example in which there are OBSSs nearby and they also perform R-TWT communications. In this case, even if the time of each service period is adjusted, only R-TWT communications can be performed, but there is a problem in that time cannot be secured for other communications.

[0044] In other words, in the conventional method, the presence of even one OBSS impairs the operation of both networks. To solve this problem, this disclosure proposes a method of applying spatial reuse technology to the duration of the R-TWT service period to ensure time available for other wireless communications and to reuse service periods that do not affect both wireless communications, thereby making efficient use of the transmission path. Next, with reference to Figures 7 to 9, a method of setting a service period that allows spatial reuse according to this disclosure will be described.

[0045] Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a method for configuring a service period that allows spatial reuse (Allowed SR R-TWT SP). In Fig. 7, the time axes in the upper and lower sections show the time series of the configuration of the service periods of the user's own BSS and OBSS, as in Fig. 6.

[0046] 7 shows that the period during which data transmission specified by the TID is prioritized is set to a time exceeding half the wake interval (R-TWT Wake Interval) by allowing spatial reuse. In other words, the duration of the service period in the R-TWT is set to the maximum duration (Spatial Reuse Max Duration) by allowing spatial reuse in the OBSS.

[0047] In this example, the maximum time (Spatial Reuse Max Duration) is set to approximately 75% of the wake interval, but this maximum time may be set appropriately depending on, for example, the number of OBSSs in the vicinity of the BSS and the traffic volume in those OBSSs. In other words, if there are more OBSSs, a shorter maximum duration of the wake interval may be set depending on the number of surrounding OBSSs. Alternatively, spatial reuse may be allowed depending on the number of wireless communication devices connected to the BSS, the type of application used in the BSS, etc.

[0048] In this way, when spatial reuse communications are permitted, the service period allowing spatial reuse (Allowed SR R-TWT SP in FIG. 7) can be set to be longer than the duration of the transmission opportunities periodically obtained in the R-TWT (R-TWT SP in FIG. 6). As a result, for example, if it is detected that a service period allowing spatial reuse (Allowed SR R-TWT SP) is set in an adjacent OBSS, it is possible to perform data transmission using spatial reuse and set the service period (OBSS R-TWT SP) to have a normal duration of about half the wake interval.

[0049] The spatial reuse service period (Allowed SR R-TWT SP) setting allows for periodic communications in OBSSs, as it occurs repeatedly at a predetermined wake interval. Furthermore, since time outside the service period can be secured, various wireless communications can coexist in both the BSS and OBSS.

[0050] Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a method for setting a service period (Protect SP) in which spatial reuse is prohibited. In Fig. 8, the time axes in the upper and lower sections also show the setting status of the service periods of the own BSS and OBSS in chronological order.

[0051] In Figure 8, the period during which data transmission specified by the TID is prioritized is set over a portion of the wake interval (R-TWT Wake Interval) by prohibiting spatial reuse and protecting it. In other words, the minimum duration of the service period in the R-TWT is allowed by prohibiting spatial reuse in the OBSS.

[0052] In this example, the protected duration is set to approximately 25% of the wake interval, but this protected duration may be set appropriately depending on, for example, the number of OBSSs in the vicinity and the amount of communication in those OBSSs. In other words, if there are more OBSSs, it may be possible to prevent a shorter portion of the wake interval from being set as the protected duration.

[0053] In this way, when spatial reuse communication is prohibited, the service period (Protect SP in FIG. 8) during which spatial reuse is prohibited can be set to a period (e.g., a significantly shorter period) than the duration of the transmission opportunity periodically obtained in the R-TWT (R-TWT SP in FIG. 6). This allows, for example, adjacent OBSSs to set data transmissions using spatial reuse to avoid this prohibited period, thereby ensuring time for other communications even if the service period (OBSS R-TWT SP) is set to a normal duration of, for example, about half the wake interval.

[0054] Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of a setting method when spatial reuse is combined. This example shows a case where both the period in which spatial reuse is prohibited (Protect SP) shown in Figure 8 and the period in which spatial reuse is allowed (Allowed SR R-TWT SP) shown in Figure 7 are set. In Figure 9, the time axes in the upper and lower sections also show the time series of the setting status of the service periods of the user's own BSS and OBSS.

[0055] In Figure 9, a period (Protected SP) during which data transmission specified by the TID is prioritized is configured, along with a period (Allowed SR R-TWT SP) during which spatial reuse is permitted. Therefore, when configuring a service period (OBSS R-TWT SP) in an OBSS, the period during which spatial reuse is prohibited (Protected SP) is avoided, and the service period (OBSS R-TWT SP) is configured within the period during which spatial reuse is permitted (Allowed SR R-TWT SP), thereby enabling coexistence of wireless communications. Here, a first rate, which is a predetermined rate of the wake interval, can be configured as the period during which spatial reuse is permitted (Allowed SR R-TWT SP), and a second rate, which is smaller than the first rate, can be configured as the period during which spatial reuse is prohibited (Protected SP).

[0056] Furthermore, the OBSS does not necessarily have to set its service period (OBSS R-TWT SP) within the period for which spatial reuse is permitted, and may set its own service period (OBSS R-TWT SP) even if it exceeds the period for which spatial reuse is permitted. If the service period is set beyond the period for which spatial reuse is permitted, there is no need to restrict the transmission parameters for spatial reuse. In other words, the BSS may allow the OBSS to continue spatial reuse communications beyond the period for which spatial reuse is permitted (Allowed SR R-TWT SP).

[0057] This provides a method for ensuring that spatially reused data transmission can be performed even in adjacent OBSSs.

[0058] <Configuration Example of Parameter Set> FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a field of the Broadcast TWT Parameter Set.

[0059] The Broadcast TWT Parameter Set field consists of the following traditional parameters: Request Type, which indicates the request format; Target Wake Time, which indicates the operating time; Normal Minimum TWT Wake Duration, which indicates the duration of normal minimum TWT operation; TWT Wake Interval Mantissa, which indicates the time interval for TWT operation; Broadcast TWT Info, which indicates information about broadcast TWT settings; and Restricted TWT Traffic Info, which indicates traffic information for Restricted TWT.

[0060] In addition, the Broadcast TWT Parameter Set field is configured by newly adding an R-TWT Spatial Reuse Parameter Set that indicates information related to spatial reuse communication according to the present disclosure.

[0061] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a detailed configuration example of the R-TWT Spatial Reuse Parameter Set in FIG.

[0062] The R-TWT Spatial Reuse Parameter Set consists of the Application Type, which indicates the type of application transmitted by the device itself; OBSS Counts, which indicates the number of OBSSs present around the device itself; R-TWT Spatial Reuse Enable, which indicates whether R-TWT spatial reuse is possible; Enable Type, which indicates the Enable / Disable format; Spatial Reuse Protect Min. Duration, which specifies the minimum duration when spatial reuse is prohibited; and Spatial Reuse Max. Duration, which specifies the maximum duration when spatial reuse is allowed.

[0063] Note that the parameters of the R-TWT Spatial Reuse Parameter Set shown in Fig. 11 are merely an example, and these parameters may be configured by adding other parameters as necessary. The Broadcast TWT Parameter Set field in Fig. 10 or the parameters of the R-TWT Spatial Reuse Parameter Set in Fig. 11 may be included in, for example, a request, a response, an indication, or the like, or may be placed in a frame such as an action frame or a management frame.

[0064] <Device Configuration> FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of an embodiment of a wireless communication device to which the present disclosure is applied.

[0065] 12 , a wireless communication device 10 operates as an access point (AP) or a communication terminal (STA) in the above-mentioned wireless LAN system. The wireless communication device 10 is composed of a network module 11, an input module 12, a control module 13, an output module 14, and a wireless communication module 15.

[0066] The network module 11 performs various processes related to Internet connection under the control of the control module 13. For example, when the network module 11 operates as an access point (AP), it is configured to implement functions such as a communication modem for connecting to the Internet network, and is configured to establish an Internet connection via a public communication line and an Internet service provider.

[0067] The input module 12 has a function of inputting instruction information corresponding to an instruction from a user to the control module 13. The input module 12 is configured with input devices such as push buttons, a keyboard, and a touch panel, for example.

[0068] The control module 13 controls each unit (module) to operate the wireless communication device 10 as an access point (AP) or a communication terminal (STA). The control module 13 exchanges necessary information (data) with each unit (module). The control module 13 is composed of, for example, a control device such as a microprocessor or a microcontroller, and a storage device such as a semiconductor memory.

[0069] The output module 14 has a function of displaying necessary information to the user based on information supplied from the control module 13. Here, the information displayed or notified by the output module 14 includes, for example, the operating status of the wireless communication device 10 and information obtained via the Internet. The output module 14 is configured with output devices including, for example, display elements such as a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, and an LED (Light Emitting Diode) display, and speakers that output voice and music.

[0070] The wireless communication module 15 performs various processes related to wireless communication under the control of the control module 13. The wireless communication module 15 is configured, for example, with a wireless communication chip, peripheral circuits, a control device such as a microcontroller, a storage device such as a semiconductor memory, etc. The configuration of the wireless communication module 15 will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 13 .

[0071] In the wireless communication device 10, the control module 13 and the wireless communication module 15 are essential components, but it is optional whether or not to include the network module 11, input module 12, and output module 14 as components other than these.

[0072] That is, each wireless communication device 10 operating as an access point (AP) or a communication terminal (STA) can be configured with only the necessary modules, and unnecessary parts may be simplified or not incorporated. For example, in the wireless communication device 10 of Fig. 18, the network module 11 may be incorporated only in the access point (AP), and the input module 12 and output module 14 may be incorporated only in the communication terminal (STA). It is optional whether or not the wireless communication module 15 includes an antenna.

[0073] 13 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of an embodiment of a wireless communication module to which the present disclosure is applied, showing a detailed configuration example of the wireless communication module 15 of FIG.

[0074] The wireless communication module 15 is composed of an interface 101 that is connected to other modules and exchanges various information and data, a transmission buffer 102 that temporarily stores data to be transmitted, an application management unit 103 that manages settings according to the type (category) of application, and a frame construction unit 104 that constructs frames such as data frames and management frames.

[0075] The wireless communication module 15 further includes an R-TWT control unit 105 that controls the R-TWT, such as managing whether or not the R-TWT needs to be set, a service period control unit 106 that actually sets the R-TWT service period, and a spatial reuse control unit 107 that controls whether or not spatial reuse is permitted with surrounding OBSS wireless communication devices.

[0076] The wireless communication module 15 further includes a transmission signal processing unit 108 that constructs a signal to be transmitted, an access control unit 109 that performs access control on a target channel, an antenna unit 110 that is configured with an antenna for transmitting or receiving signals, and a received signal detection unit 111 that detects received signals. The wireless communication module 15 also includes a frame analysis unit 112 that extracts predetermined header information from the received signal and extracts information contained in the frame, and a receive buffer 113 that temporarily stores received data.

[0077] 13, the arrows between blocks represent the flow of data (signals) and control, and each block operates in cooperation with other blocks connected by the arrows to realize its own function. For example, the R-TWT control unit 105 operates in cooperation with each of the application management unit 103, frame construction unit 104, service period control unit 106, spatial reuse control unit 107, access control unit 109, and frame analysis unit 112 to realize a series of R-TWT-related controls according to the present disclosure.

[0078] More specifically, when the application management unit 103 stores parameters such as the expected data arrival period, the duration of data transmission, and the reliability of the information being sent and received, the R-TWT control unit 105 is configured to perform various settings such as the R-TWT service period based on these parameters.

[0079] Furthermore, when the R-TWT control unit 105 sets a period during which spatial reuse is permitted or a period during which protection is to be provided within the R-TWT service period, the frame construction unit 104 generates a control frame stating this, and the transmission signal processing unit 108 transmits the control frame signal via the antenna unit 110. This makes it possible to transmit information regarding the setting status, such as the period during which spatial reuse is permitted or the protection period.

[0080] Furthermore, when the received signal detector 111 receives a control frame related to the R-TWT service period transmitted from another wireless communication device via the antenna unit 110, the frame analyzer 112 extracts information on the period during which spatial reuse is permitted or the period during which protection is to be performed as information related to the setting of the R-TWT service period. The R-TWT controller 105 then sets these periods, sets the actual duration of the service period in the service period controller 106, and, if spatial reuse is permitted, sets the duration of the service period in the spatial reuse controller 107.

[0081] 13, each block may be configured independently, or a control unit that performs a series of processes according to the present disclosure may be configured by a plurality of blocks. For example, the control unit may be configured to include at least the R-TWT control unit 105, the service period control unit 106, and the spatial reuse control unit 107, and may perform a series of processes according to the present disclosure under control of the control module 13.

[0082] 12 and 13 are based on the configuration of a BSS wireless communication device (BSS AP, STA), but a similar configuration is also applicable to an OBSS wireless communication device (OBSS AP, STA). However, an OBSS wireless communication device does not require the functions of setting the period during which spatial reuse is permitted (Allowed SR R-TWT SP) or the period during which spatial reuse is prohibited (Protect SP), and therefore does not need to be provided with blocks corresponding to these functions (e.g., spatial reuse control unit 107, etc.).

[0083] 14 is a flowchart illustrating the flow of spatial reuse configuration processing to which the present disclosure is applied. This flowchart illustrates the flow when, for example, a wireless communication device 10 that is the owner of an R-TWT configures its service period (SP).

[0084] First, the wireless communication device 10 determines whether or not R-TWT is enabled in its own BSS, based on the type of application that is based on the TID that the wireless communication device 10 manages (S101). If it determines that R-TWT communication is required (S102: Yes), the wireless communication device 10 performs at least steps S103 to S106, S109, and S111.

[0085] That is, the wireless communication device 10 calculates the required wake interval (R-TWT Wake Interval) and the duration of the service period (Duration) (S103).The wireless communication device 10 also exchanges requests and responses with other wireless communication devices that receive data associated with the TID (S104).

[0086] Here, to check the status of the surrounding OBSS, an R-TWT SR Parameter Request is sent and an R-TWT SR Parameter Response is received from another wireless communication device. For example, the exchange of the R-TWT SR Parameter Request and the R-TWT SR Parameter Response can be performed according to the sequences shown in Figures 3 and 4.

[0087] This exchange may be configured to grasp the surrounding situation at the time of association and notify it, in which case the stored information may be read and used. Alternatively, when another wireless communication device detects an OBSS signal, it may return an R-TWT SR Parameter Response and record it.

[0088] Then, the wireless communication device 10 grasps the status of the surrounding OBSS (e.g., interference caused by the OBSS) based on the parameters included in the response, and determines whether or not to actually set the service period (R-TWT SP) based on the grasped status of the surrounding OBSS (S105).

[0089] Here, it is determined whether the duration set as the service period exceeds the SP (Service Period) limit value, depending on the number of OBSSs present in the vicinity, etc. (S106). The SP limit value is a threshold value that is set in advance depending on the operation of spatial reuse.

[0090] If it is determined in step S106 that the SP limit value is exceeded, the wireless communication device 10 performs the processes of steps S107 and S108. That is, spatial reuse is permitted (S107), and the service period in which spatial reuse is permitted (Allowed SR R-TWT SP) is set to a service period within the maximum time (S108). On the other hand, if it is determined in step S106 that the SP limit value is not exceeded, steps S107 and S108 are skipped.

[0091] Also, it is determined whether or not it is necessary to set prohibition of spatial reuse depending on the number of OBSSs present in the surrounding area (S109).

[0092] If it is determined in step S109 that the setting to prohibit spatial reuse is necessary, the wireless communication device 10 performs the process of step S110. That is, when protecting by prohibiting spatial reuse, a service period (Protected SP) is set within a minimum time as the protection duration (Protected Duration) (S110). On the other hand, if it is determined in step S109 that the setting to prohibit spatial reuse is not necessary, step S110 is skipped.

[0093] In this way, the wireless communication device 10 that is the R-TWT owner sets a service period (Allowed SR R-TWT SP) within the maximum time if spatial reuse communication is permitted for wireless communication devices in the OBSS (S107, S108) depending on the number of surrounding OBSSs, etc., and sets a protected service period (Protected SP) if spatial reuse communication is prohibited for wireless communication devices in the OBSS (S110). Specifically, the setting method shown in Figure 7 is for the case where only the former service period (Allowed SR R-TWT SP) is set, and the setting method shown in Figure 8 is for the case where only the latter service period (Protected SP) is set. Furthermore, the setting method shown in Figure 9 is for the case where both service periods (Allowed SR R-TWT SP, Protected SP) are set.

[0094] The wireless communication device 10 then transmits an indication (R-TWT SR Parameter Indication) containing these setting parameters to the other wireless communication device (S111). When step S111 is completed, the process ends. If R-TWT communication is not required and R-TWT setting is not required (S102: No), the process is terminated.

[0095] As described above, in the present disclosure, the following process is performed by the wireless communication device 10 of the BSS that is the R-TWT owner. That is, in the wireless communication device 10 of the BSS (e.g., AP #1 of BSS #1), when a control unit (a control unit including the R-TWT control unit 105, etc.) acquires a transmission opportunity that arrives periodically at a predetermined time interval with another wireless communication device (e.g., any of STAs #1 to #4 of BSS #1) and operates (operates using the R-TWT), the control unit controls reception of a signal (R-TWT SR Parameter Response) that includes information about the surrounding communication conditions and is transmitted from the other wireless communication device (e.g., STAs #1 to #4 of BSS #1). Then, the control unit determines whether to allow spatial reuse communication with other wireless communication devices (e.g., OBSS AP, OBSS STA #1 of the OBSS) based on the information contained in the received signal, and if it determines that spatial reuse communication is allowed, performs control to set a period (e.g., Allowed SR R-TWT SP) during which spatial reuse communication is allowed for other wireless communication devices (e.g., OBSS AP, OBSS STA #1 of the OBSS).

[0096] Furthermore, in the present disclosure, a wireless communication device 10 of an OBSS that detects that information indicating that spatial reuse communication is permitted is configured performs the following process: That is, in a wireless communication device 10 of an OBSS (e.g., an OBSS AP of the OBSS), a control unit detects that a period during which spatial reuse communication is permitted (e.g., Allowed SR R-TWT SP) has been configured by another wireless communication device (e.g., AP #1 of BSS #1) that operates by acquiring transmission opportunities that arrive periodically at predetermined time intervals (operating by R-TWT), and controls data transmission between the wireless communication device 10 and the other wireless communication device (e.g., OBSS STA #1 of the OBSS) using spatial reuse communication during that period.

[0097] Note that, as a method for detecting that a period allowing spatial reuse communication has been set in a wireless communication device 10 of an OBSS, the wireless communication device 10 of the OBSS (e.g., an OBSS AP of the OBSS) may detect information set by a wireless communication device 10 of a BSS (e.g., AP #1 of BSS #1), or may detect based on information included in a signal notified from the wireless communication device 10 of the BSS (e.g., AP #1 of BSS #1). In short, it is sufficient for the wireless communication device 10 of the OBSS to detect that a period allowing spatial reuse communication has been set by the wireless communication device 10 of the BSS, and any method for detection may be used.

[0098] Furthermore, a wireless communication device 10 in an OBSS may transmit data when information about the time period during which spatial reuse communication is permitted is set in its own network, or when information about the time period during which spatial reuse communication is permitted is set in an overlapping basic service set. A wireless communication device 10 in an OBSS (e.g., an OBSS AP in an OBSS) may transmit data via spatial reuse communication with another wireless communication device (e.g., OBSS STA #1 in an OBSS) so as not to affect wireless communication by the other wireless communication device (e.g., AP #1, STA #1 in BSS #1), for example, by controlling transmission power. Furthermore, a wireless communication device 10 in an OBSS may transmit spatial reuse communication according to the type of data it transmits when information about the time period during which spatial reuse communication is permitted is set.

[0099] In conventional R-TWT (Restricted TWT), a transmitting wireless communication device and a receiving wireless communication device periodically agree on a timing for use, and a specific data transmission is prioritized for a predetermined duration at that timing. Furthermore, conventional R-TWTs set a service period (SP) at a fixed interval, allowing data transmissions designated by a specific TID to be prioritized. With this method, other data communications and wireless communications by other wireless communication devices must be performed outside the service period, requiring a certain amount of time to be reserved.

[0100] Furthermore, since surrounding wireless communication devices will not operate unless they have finished communication by the start of the R-TWT service period, further improvements will be necessary, such as setting a quiet period in advance. In reality, there may be cases where other wireless communication devices that can detect the signal of the transmitting wireless communication device reuse arbitrary data for transmission without any impact, as long as there is no impact on reception by the receiving wireless communication device.

[0101] In addition, spatial reuse technology allows multiplexing communications using a range that does not affect existing wireless communications, or a transmission power that does not affect existing wireless communications, and has been defined as a method for efficiently communicating in environments where wireless LAN systems are congested. This spatial reuse technology uses transmission parameters that ensure no impact on the wireless communication device receiving the original data communication, and communicates by overlapping the data.

[0102] However, in conventional R-TWT, it is desirable to set the duration of the service period to the minimum required for the data transmission specified by the TID, but considering the time it takes to retransmit the data, a longer period (more than twice as long) is required. Also, because the service period arrives periodically, in order to transmit the data received from the application with minimal delay, it is necessary to set the required duration to a longer period to eliminate jitter.

[0103] Furthermore, if the duration of the service period is set to a longer duration, the time available for other wireless communications other than the data communications specified by the TID is relatively reduced, which may cause a large delay in the transmission of data by other wireless communications. Therefore, if the duration of the service period is limited to the minimum necessary, it becomes difficult to satisfactorily transmit data specified by the TID, which should have been given priority.

[0104] Conventional spatial multiplexing technology using spatial reuse allows reuse for other wireless communications within a range that does not affect existing wireless communications, so it is necessary to determine the degree of impact and determine the necessary transmission parameters. In addition, because the availability of spatial multiplexing technology using spatial reuse can be set in advance, there is a possibility that it may interfere with original communications, which has hindered its active use. Furthermore, in order to promote the use of spatial multiplexing technology using spatial reuse, conditions were needed that would give preferential treatment to one's own wireless communications by using this mechanism.

[0105] Therefore, in order to solve the above-mentioned conventional problems, the present disclosure proposes the following technique: That is, the present disclosure proposes a wireless communication device and a wireless communication method that indicate whether spatial reuse communication by Spatial Reuse is permitted during the R-TWT service period (R-TWT SP) in a wireless LAN system, thereby making it possible to easily coexist with other wireless communications even when the service period is set long.

[0106] Specifically, when spatial reuse communications are permitted, the service period (R-TWT SP) can be set to a longer period than when spatial reuse communications are not permitted, thereby improving the efficiency of transmission channel utilization by allowing coexistence with other wireless communications. We also propose a method that allows the service period (R-TWT SP) to be set to a period exceeding the minimum required wireless communication duration. Here, the service period duration may be determined based on the number of OBSSs around the station, and spatial reuse may be permitted if the number of OBSSs is large. For example, if the minimum required wireless communication duration is 50% of the wake interval (R-TWT Wake Interval), the service period may be set to approximately 75% of that duration.

[0107] We also propose a method for ensuring communication by defining a period (prohibition period) during which spatial reuse communication is not permitted and shortening the service period (R-TWT SP) to reject multiplexing by other wireless communications. Again, the duration of the service period may be determined based on the number of OBSSs around the station. If the number of OBSSs is large, spatial reuse may be prohibited. For example, if the duration during which minimal wireless communication is possible is 50% of the wake interval, the system may allow a setting of up to approximately 25% of that.

[0108] In the present disclosure, by proposing the above-described method, for example, the following effects can be obtained. That is, when configuring the R-TWT service period (R-TWT SP), a configuration that allows spatial reuse enables coexistence with other wireless communications, and more service periods can be configured. In particular, in an environment where coexistence with an OBSS occurs, flexibility can be provided in the configuration of the R-TWT for each BSS and OBSS, making it possible to secure ample service periods for each BSS. In other words, even if a service period is configured longer than necessary, time can be secured for use in other wireless communications.

[0109] Furthermore, by optimizing the setting of its own service period according to the status of surrounding OBSSs, it is possible to set an optimal service period. When setting the R-TWT service period (R-TWT SP), by providing a time during which spatial reuse is prohibited (rejected), it is possible to more reliably transmit its own data. Furthermore, even in an environment where it coexists with surrounding OBSSs, it is possible to reliably perform wireless communication during its own service period.

[0110] <Modifications> The above-described series of processes can be executed by hardware or software. When the series of processes is executed by software, the program constituting the software is installed from a program recording medium into a computer incorporated in dedicated hardware or a general-purpose PC (Personal Computer). For example, in a computer that executes the above-described series of processes by a program, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) loads the program stored in a storage unit such as a hard disk or non-volatile memory into RAM (Random Access Memory) and executes it, thereby performing the above-described series of processes. Note that the program executed by the computer may be a program that executes processes chronologically in the order described in this specification, or may be a program that executes processes in parallel or at the required timing, such as when called.

[0111] The present disclosure is applicable to various products. For example, when the wireless communication device 10 is a communication terminal (STA), it may be configured as a mobile terminal such as a smartphone, tablet PC, notebook PC, portable game terminal, or digital camera; a fixed terminal such as a television receiver, printer, digital scanner, or network storage; or an in-vehicle terminal such as a car navigation system. Furthermore, the wireless communication device 10 may be configured as a machine-to-machine communication (M2M) terminal such as a smart meter, vending machine, remote monitoring device, or point-of-sale (POS) terminal. Furthermore, the wireless communication device 10 may be a wireless communication module (e.g., an integrated circuit module configured on a single die) mounted on such a terminal.

[0112] For example, when the wireless communication device 10 is an access point (AP), it may be configured as a wireless LAN AP (wireless base station) with or without router functionality. The wireless communication device 10 may also be configured as a mobile wireless LAN router. Furthermore, the wireless communication device 10 may be a wireless communication module (for example, an integrated circuit module configured on a single die) mounted on these devices.

[0113] <Example of Computer Configuration> The above-described series of processes can be executed by hardware or software. When the series of processes is executed by software, the program constituting the software is installed from a program recording medium into a computer incorporated in dedicated hardware, or into a general-purpose personal computer, etc.

[0114] FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a computer that executes the above-described series of processes by a program.

[0115] A CPU (Central Processing Unit) 801 , a ROM (Read Only Memory) 802 , and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 803 are interconnected by a bus 804 .

[0116] An input / output interface 805 is further connected to the bus 804. An input unit 806 including a keyboard, a mouse, etc., and an output unit 807 including a display, a speaker, etc., are connected to the input / output interface 805. Information related to the present technology, for example, information related to the surrounding communication status, may be output or displayed from the output unit 807. Information related to the present technology, for example, information related to the surrounding communication status, may be input from the input unit 806, and confirmation or response to the information output or displayed on the output unit 807 may be input. In addition, a storage unit 808 including a hard disk or nonvolatile memory, a communication unit 809 including a network interface, etc., and a drive 810 that drives removable media 811 are connected to the input / output interface 805.

[0117] In the computer configured as above, the CPU 801 performs the above-described series of processes by, for example, loading a program stored in the storage unit 808 into the RAM 803 via the input / output interface 805 and the bus 804 and executing the program. For example, the CPU 801 may execute a processing program corresponding to the flowchart of Fig. 14 of the present technology.

[0118] The program executed by the CPU 801 is provided, for example, by being recorded on a removable medium 811 or via a wired or wireless transmission medium such as a local area network, the Internet, or digital broadcasting, and is installed in the storage unit 808.

[0119] The program executed by the computer may be a program that processes in chronological order according to the order described in this specification, or may be a program that processes in parallel or at the required timing, such as when called.

[0120] <Application Examples> The present technology can be applied to various products. For example, the wireless communication device 10 of FIG. 12 may be realized as a mobile terminal such as a smartphone, a tablet PC (Personal Computer), a notebook PC, a portable game terminal, or a digital camera; a fixed terminal such as a television receiver, a projector, a printer, a digital scanner, or a network storage; or an in-vehicle terminal such as a car navigation device or a drive recorder. The wireless communication device 10 of FIG. 12 may also be realized as an M2M (Machine-to-Machine Communication) terminal or an IoT (Internet of Things) terminal, such as a smart meter, a vending machine, a remote monitoring device, or a POS (Point of Sale) terminal. Furthermore, the wireless communication device 10 of FIG. 12 may be a wireless communication module (e.g., an integrated circuit module configured on a single die) mounted on such a terminal.

[0121] On the other hand, for example, the wireless communication device 10 in Fig. 12 may be realized as a wireless LAN AP (wireless base station) with or without router functionality. The wireless communication device 10 in Fig. 12 may also be realized as a mobile wireless LAN router. The wireless communication device 10 in Fig. 12 may also be realized as a cellular communication base station or femtocell. Furthermore, the wireless communication device 10 in Fig. 12 may be a wireless communication module (e.g., an integrated circuit module configured on a single die) mounted on these devices.

[0122] <Configuration example of smartphone> Fig. 16 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration example of a smartphone 900 to which the present technology is applied. Fig. 16 is described as a configuration example of the smartphone 900, but the present technology is not limited to this, and may be a configuration example of the various devices and functions described above.

[0123] The smartphone 900 includes a processor 901, a memory 902, a storage 903, an external connection interface 904, a camera 906, a sensor 907, a microphone 908, an input device 909, and a display device 910. The smartphone 900 also includes a speaker 911, a wireless communication interface 913, an antenna switch 914, an antenna 915, a bus 917, a battery 918, and an auxiliary controller 919. The smartphone 900 may include all or some of the above.

[0124] The processor 901 may be, for example, a CPU or a SoC (System on Chip), and controls the functions of the application layer and other layers of the smartphone 900.

[0125] The memory 902 includes RAM and ROM, and stores programs and data executed by the processor 901 .

[0126] The storage 903 includes a storage medium such as a semiconductor memory or a hard disk.

[0127] The external connection interface 904 is an interface for connecting an external device such as a memory card or a USB (Universal Serial Bus) device to the smartphone 900 .

[0128] The camera 906 has an imaging element such as a charge coupled device (CCD) or a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS), and generates a captured image.

[0129] The sensor 907 includes a group of sensors such as a positioning sensor, a gyro sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, and an acceleration sensor.

[0130] The microphone 908 converts the sound input to the smartphone 900 into an audio signal.

[0131] The input device 909 includes, for example, a touch sensor that detects a touch on the screen of the display device 910, a keypad, a keyboard, a button, or a switch, and accepts operations or information input from the user.

[0132] The display device 910 has a screen such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, or a quantum dot (QD) display, and displays the output image of the smartphone 900.

[0133] The speaker 911 converts the audio signal output from the smartphone 900 into sound.

[0134] The wireless communication interface 913 supports one or more wireless LAN standards such as IEEE802.11a, 11b, 11g, 11ac, 11ad, 11ax, 11ay, 11be, 11bn, and successor standards thereof, and performs wireless communication.

[0135] The wireless communication interface 913 communicates with other devices via a wireless LAN AP in infrastructure mode, and directly with other devices in ad hoc mode or a direct communication mode such as Wi-Fi Direct.

[0136] Unlike ad hoc mode, in Wi-Fi Direct, one of the two terminals acts as an AP, but communication is carried out directly between the terminals.

[0137] The wireless communication interface 913 typically includes a baseband processor, an RF (Radio Frequency) circuit, a power amplifier, etc. The wireless communication interface 913 may be a one-chip module that integrates a memory that stores a communication control program, a processor that executes the program, and related circuits.

[0138] The wireless communication interface 913 may support other types of wireless communication methods, such as a short-range wireless communication method such as Bluetooth, a proximity wireless communication method such as NFC, or a 3GPP (registered trademark) cellular communication method such as 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G, and 6G, in addition to the wireless LAN method. The wireless communication interface 913 may be a one-chip module that supports multiple wireless communication methods, or may be a combination of modules that support some of the wireless communication methods.

[0139] The antenna switch 914 switches the connection destination of the antenna 915 between multiple circuits included in the wireless communication interface 913 (for example, circuits for different wireless communication methods, or transmission system circuits and reception system circuits).

[0140] The antenna 915 has a single or multiple antenna elements (e.g., multiple antenna elements constituting a MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) antenna, or multiple antenna elements constituting an array antenna) and is used for transmitting and receiving radio signals via the wireless communication interface 913.

[0141] 16, the smartphone 900 may include multiple antennas (for example, an antenna for wireless LAN, an antenna for a close-proximity wireless communication system, and an antenna for a cellular communication system). In this case, the antenna switch 914 may be omitted from the configuration of the smartphone 900.

[0142] The bus 917 connects the processor 901, memory 902, storage 903, external connection interface 904, camera 906, sensor 907, microphone 908, input device 909, display device 910, speaker 911, wireless communication interface 913, and auxiliary controller 919 to each other.

[0143] The battery 918 supplies power to each block of the smartphone 900 shown in FIG. 16 via a power supply line partially indicated by a dashed line in the figure. The auxiliary controller 919 operates the minimum necessary functions of the smartphone 900, for example, in sleep mode. The battery 918 may also be charged via the external connection interface 904. The battery 918 may also have a function that allows reading information regarding the remaining amount of power, the cumulative power-on time, or the cumulative amount of power supply, and the processor 901, the wireless communication interface 913, or the auxiliary controller 919 may control any of the functions of the above-described embodiments based on the information read from the battery 918.

[0144] 16, for example, the control module 13 and the wireless communication module 15 in FIG. 12 may be implemented in the wireless communication interface 913. For example, a processing program corresponding to the flowchart in FIG. 14 may be executed in the wireless communication interface 913. Furthermore, at least some of these functions may be implemented in the processor 901 or the auxiliary controller 919.

[0145] The smartphone 900 may operate as a wireless AP (software AP) by the processor 901 executing an AP function at the application level. The wireless communication interface 913 may have a wireless AP function. The processor 901 or the wireless communication interface 913 may have a tethering function that uses a wireless LAN system and a cellular communication system, and may transmit payload data received via the cellular communication system via the wireless LAN system, or may transmit payload data received via the wireless LAN system via the cellular communication system. The smartphone 900 may have a tethering function enabled by user input.

[0146] Furthermore, the smartphone 900 may be provided with a biometric authentication unit (fingerprint authentication, palm shape authentication, voice authentication, blood vessel authentication, face authentication, iris authentication, retina authentication). In this case, the wireless communication interface 913 in which the control module 13 and the wireless communication module 15 in Fig. 12 are implemented is configured to receive power from the same battery 918 as the display device 910, the speaker 911, and at least one of the biometric authentication unit.

[0147] Furthermore, in the smartphone 900, information is displayed on at least one of the display device 910 and the speaker 911 based on communication with an external device via the wireless communication interface 913. At this time, information related to the present technology, for example, information related to a surrounding communication situation, may be output from at least one of the display device 910 and the speaker 911. Furthermore, the input device 909 may be configured to input a confirmation or response to the information output from at least one of the display device 910 and the speaker 911.

[0148] <Configuration example of in-vehicle device> Fig. 17 is a block diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of an in-vehicle device 920 to which the present technology is applied. Fig. 17 is described as an example of the configuration of the in-vehicle device 920, but the configuration is not limited to this and may be an example of the configuration of the various devices and functions described above.

[0149] The in-vehicle device 920 is configured to include a processor 921, a memory 922, a GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) module 924, a sensor 925, a data interface 926, a content player 927, and a storage medium interface 928. The in-vehicle device 920 is also configured to include an input device 929, a display device 930, a speaker 931, a wireless communication interface 933, an antenna switch 934, an antenna 935, and a battery 938. The in-vehicle device 920 may be configured to include all or some of the above.

[0150] The processor 921 may be, for example, a CPU or an SoC, and controls the navigation function and other functions of the in-vehicle device 920. The processor 921 can also control the vehicle's driving system, such as the brake, accelerator, or steering, based on information obtained through communication based on the present technology.

[0151] The memory 922 includes RAM and ROM, and stores programs and data executed by the processor 921 .

[0152] The GNSS module 924 measures the position (e.g., latitude, longitude, and altitude) of the in-vehicle device 920 using GNSS signals received from GNSS satellites.

[0153] The sensor 925 includes a group of sensors such as a gyro sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, a millimeter wave radar, a camera (an imaging element such as a CCD or CMOS), and a barometric pressure sensor.

[0154] The data interface 926 is connected to an in-vehicle network 941 via a terminal (not shown), for example, and acquires data generated on the vehicle side, such as vehicle-side data.

[0155] The content player 927 plays content stored on a storage medium (e.g., a CD or DVD) inserted into the storage medium interface 928 or content received via the wireless communication interface 933 .

[0156] The input device 929 includes, for example, a touch sensor, a button, or a switch that detects a touch on the screen of the display device 930, and accepts operations or information input from the user. For example, the input device 929 may be configured to input a confirmation or response to information output from at least one of the display device 930 and the speaker 931.

[0157] The display device 930 has a screen such as an LCD, OLED display, or QD display, and displays images of navigation functions or content being played, as well as information about the present technology, such as information about the surrounding communication status.

[0158] The speaker 931 outputs the navigation function, the audio of the content being played, or information relating to the present technology, for example, information relating to the surrounding communication conditions.

[0159] Note that the navigation function and the function of the content player 927 are optional in the in-vehicle device 920. The navigation function and the content player 927 may be removed from the configuration of the in-vehicle device 920.

[0160] The wireless communication interface 933 supports one or more wireless LAN standards such as IEEE802.11a, 11b, 11g, 11n, 11ac, 11ad, 11ax, 11ay, 11be, 11bn, and successor standards thereof, and performs wireless communication.

[0161] The wireless communication interface 933 communicates with other devices via a wireless LAN AP in infrastructure mode, and directly with other devices in ad hoc mode or a direct communication mode such as Wi-Fi Direct.

[0162] Unlike ad hoc mode, in Wi-Fi Direct, one of the two terminals acts as an AP, but communication is carried out directly between the terminals.

[0163] The wireless communication interface 933 typically includes a baseband processor, an RF circuit, a power amplifier, etc. The wireless communication interface 933 may be a one-chip module that integrates a memory that stores a communication control program, a processor that executes the program, or related circuits.

[0164] The wireless communication interface 933 may support other types of wireless communication methods in addition to the WLAN method, such as a short-range wireless communication method such as Bluetooth, a proximity wireless communication method such as NFC, or a 3GPP cellular communication method such as 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G, and 6G. The wireless communication interface 933 may be a one-chip module that supports multiple wireless communication methods, or may be a combination of modules that support some of the wireless communication methods.

[0165] The antenna switch 934 switches the connection destination of the antenna 935 between multiple circuits included in the wireless communication interface 933 (for example, circuits for different wireless communication methods, or transmission system circuits and reception system circuits).

[0166] The antenna 935 has a single or multiple antenna elements (e.g., multiple antenna elements constituting a MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) antenna, or multiple antenna elements constituting an array antenna) and is used for transmitting and receiving radio signals via the wireless communication interface 933.

[0167] 17, the in-vehicle device 920 may include multiple antennas (for example, an antenna for wireless LAN, an antenna for a close-proximity wireless communication system, and an antenna for a cellular communication system). In this case, the antenna switch 934 may be omitted from the configuration of the in-vehicle device 920.

[0168] The battery 938 supplies power to each block of the in-vehicle device 920 shown in Fig. 17 via a power supply line partially indicated by a dashed line in the figure. The battery 938 may also store power supplied from the vehicle side. Alternatively, the in-vehicle device 920 may not be equipped with a battery and may instead use power supplied from the vehicle side via a voltage regulator or a capacitor.

[0169] In the in-vehicle device 920 shown in Fig. 17, for example, the control module 13 and the wireless communication module 15 in Fig. 12 may be implemented in the wireless communication interface 933. For example, a processing program corresponding to the flowchart in Fig. 14 may be executed in the wireless communication interface 933. Furthermore, at least a part of these functions may be implemented in the processor 921.

[0170] 12 and may provide a wireless connection to a terminal owned by a user of the vehicle. For example, the wireless communication interface 933 may connect the in-vehicle device 920 to other peripheral devices, and the in-vehicle device 920 may use CarPlay (registered trademark) or Android Auto (registered trademark). The wireless communication interface 933 may connect the in-vehicle device 920 to other peripheral devices using a short-range wireless communication method, infrastructure mode, or a wireless LAN method using Wi-Fi Direct.

[0171] The in-vehicle device 920 may operate as a wireless AP (software AP) by the processor 921 executing an AP function at the application level. The wireless communication interface 933 may have a wireless AP function. The processor 921 or the wireless communication interface 933 may have a tethering function that uses a wireless LAN system and a cellular communication system, and may transmit payload data received via the cellular communication system via the wireless LAN system, or may transmit payload data received via the wireless LAN system via the cellular communication system. The in-vehicle device 920 may have the tethering function enabled by user input.

[0172] Furthermore, the present technology may be realized as an in-vehicle system (or vehicle) 940 including one or more blocks of the above-described in-vehicle device 920, an in-vehicle network 941, and a vehicle-side module 942. The vehicle-side module 942 may generate vehicle-side data such as vehicle speed information, engine rotation speed information, information about the vehicle-side battery, or malfunction information, and output the generated data to the in-vehicle network 941, and the processor 921 or the wireless communication interface 933 may control any of the functions of the above-described embodiments based on the vehicle-side data acquired via the in-vehicle network 941.

[0173] <Configuration example of wireless AP> Fig. 18 is a block diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of a wireless AP 950 to which the present technology is applied. Fig. 18 is described as an example of the configuration of the wireless AP 950, but is not limited to this and may be an example of the configuration of the various devices and functions described above.

[0174] The wireless AP 950 includes a controller 951, a memory 952, an input device 954, a display device 955, a network interface 957, a wireless communication interface 963, an antenna switch 964, and an antenna 965. The wireless AP 950 may include all or some of the above.

[0175] The controller 951 may be, for example, a CPU or a DSP (Digital Signal processor) and operates various functions of the IP (Internet Protocol) layer and higher layers of the wireless AP 950 (e.g., access restriction, routing, encryption, firewall, and log management).

[0176] The memory 952 includes RAM and ROM, and stores programs executed by the controller 951 and various control information (for example, a terminal list, a routing table, an encryption key, security settings, and logs).

[0177] The input device 954 includes, for example, buttons and switches, and receives operations from the user. For example, the input device 954 may be configured to input a confirmation or response to information output from the display device 955. Furthermore, the input device 954 may be configured to input, by user operation, switching the wireless function on / off and switching between the router function and the access point function.

[0178] The display device 955 includes an LED lamp or the like and displays the operation status of the wireless AP 950. The display device 955 may display information related to the present technology, for example, information related to the surrounding communication conditions.

[0179] The network interface 957 is a wired communication interface for connecting the wireless AP 950 to a wired communication network 958. The network interface 957 may have multiple connection terminals. The network interface 957 may output payload data included in a wireless signal input from the wireless communication interface 963 as a wired signal, or may receive payload data output as a wireless signal from the wireless communication interface 963 as a wired signal. The network interface 957 may input and output wired signals in parallel with or independently of the wireless communication interface 963 inputting and outputting wireless signals. The wired communication network 958 may be a LAN such as Ethernet (registered trademark) or a WAN (Wide Area Network).

[0180] The wireless communication interface 963 supports one or more wireless LAN standards, such as IEEE 802.11a, 11b, 11g, 11n, 11ac, 11ad, 11ax, 11ay, 11be, 11bn, and their successor standards, and provides wireless connection to nearby terminals as an AP. When the wireless AP 950 is installed in a cellular communication base station or a femtocell, the wireless communication interface 963 may support other types of wireless communication systems, such as 3GPP cellular communication systems such as 2G, 3G, 4G, 5G, and 6G, in addition to the wireless LAN system. The wireless communication interface 963 may be a one-chip module that supports multiple wireless communication systems, or a combination of modules that support some of the wireless communication systems.

[0181] The wireless communication interface 963 typically includes a baseband processor, an RF circuit, a power amplifier, and the like.

[0182] The wireless communication interface 963 may be a one-chip module that integrates a memory that stores a communication control program, a processor that executes the program, or related circuits.

[0183] The antenna switch 964 switches the connection destination of the antenna 965 between multiple circuits included in the wireless communication interface 963 (for example, circuits for different wireless communication methods, or transmission system circuits and reception system circuits).

[0184] The antenna 965 has a single or multiple antenna elements (for example, multiple antenna elements constituting a MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) antenna, or multiple antenna elements constituting an array antenna) and is used for transmitting and receiving radio signals via the wireless communication interface 963.

[0185] 18, for example, the control module 13 and the wireless communication module 15 of FIG. 12 may be implemented in the wireless communication interface 963. For example, a processing program corresponding to the flowchart of FIG. 14 may be executed in the wireless communication interface 963. Furthermore, at least a part of these functions may be implemented in the controller 951.

[0186] The above-described embodiment shows an example for realizing the present technology, and the matters in the embodiment correspond to the matters specifying the invention in the claims. Similarly, the matters specifying the invention in the claims correspond to the matters in the embodiment of the present technology having the same title. However, the present technology is not limited to the embodiment, and can be realized by applying various modifications to the embodiment without departing from the gist of the present technology.

[0187] Furthermore, part or all of the information processing device described in the above embodiments may be realized, for example, as a semiconductor chip (IC (Integrated Circuit)) having a wireless communication control function. Also, it may be realized by a single semiconductor chip equipped with multiple functions, such as a SoC (System on Chip), or by combining multiple semiconductor chips each having a single function, such as a processor. Furthermore, it may be realized by combining multiple SoCs, or by combining a semiconductor chip with a single function and a SoC. It may also be realized by a semiconductor chip such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) dedicated to realizing each unit, or by a combination of a general-purpose processor with software or firmware, or by a semiconductor chip such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0188] Furthermore, the processing procedures described in the above embodiments may be regarded as a method having a series of these procedures, or as a program for causing this computer to execute these procedures or a recording medium for storing that program.

[0189] Examples of the recording medium that can be used include a CD (Compact Disc), an MD (MiniDisc), a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), a memory card, and a Blu-ray (registered trademark) Disc.

[0190] In this specification, a system refers to a collection of multiple components (devices, modules (components), etc.), regardless of whether all of the components are contained in the same housing. Therefore, multiple devices housed in separate housings and connected via a network, and a single device housed in a single housing with multiple modules, are both systems.

[0191] For example, the present technology can be configured as a cloud computing system in which a single function is shared and processed collaboratively by a plurality of devices via a network.

[0192] Furthermore, each step described in the above flowchart can be executed by one device, or can be shared and executed by a plurality of devices.

[0193] Furthermore, when one step includes multiple processes, the multiple processes included in that one step can be executed by one device or can be shared and executed by multiple devices.

[0194] It should be noted that the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the gist of the present disclosure. Furthermore, the effects described in this specification are merely examples and are not intended to be limiting, and other effects may also be obtained.

[0195] The present disclosure can also be configured as follows.

[0196] (1) A wireless communication device comprising a control unit that, when operating by acquiring transmission opportunities that arrive periodically at predetermined time intervals with a first wireless communication device, receives a first signal including information on a surrounding communication state transmitted from another wireless communication device including the first wireless communication device, determines whether to allow spatial reuse communication with a second wireless communication device based on the information included in the first signal, and, if it is determined that spatial reuse communication is allowed, sets, for the second wireless communication device, a first period during which spatial reuse communication is allowed in the time interval. (2) The wireless communication device described in (1), wherein the control unit sets, for the second wireless communication device, a second period during which spatial reuse communication is prohibited in the time interval based on the information included in the first signal. (3) The wireless communication device described in (1) or (2), wherein the control unit sets, if spatial reuse communication is allowed, the first period to be longer than the duration of the transmission opportunity. (4) The wireless communication device according to (2), wherein the control unit sets the second period to be shorter than the duration of the transmission opportunity when prohibiting spatial reuse communication. (5) The wireless communication device according to any of (1) to (4), wherein the control unit allows spatial reuse communication when there is an overlapping basic service set in the vicinity based on information included in the first signal. (6) The wireless communication device according to (5), wherein the control unit allows spatial reuse communication depending on the number of overlapping basic service sets in the vicinity. (7) The wireless communication device according to any of (1) to (5), wherein the control unit allows spatial reuse communication depending on the number of other wireless communication devices, including the first wireless communication device, connected to a basic service set. (8) The wireless communication device according to any of (1) to (5), wherein the control unit allows spatial reuse communication depending on the type of application used in the basic service set. (9) The wireless communication device according to any of (1) to (5), wherein the control unit allows spatial reuse communication to continue beyond the first period.(10) The wireless communication device according to (2), wherein the control unit sets the first period to a first ratio that is a predetermined time ratio of the time interval, and sets the second period to a second ratio that is smaller than the first ratio. (11) The wireless communication device according to any of (1) to (10), wherein the control unit performs data transmission with the first wireless communication device. (12) The wireless communication device according to any of (1) to (11), wherein the control unit transmits a second signal requesting the first signal to another wireless communication device including the first wireless communication device, and receives the first signal transmitted in response to the second signal from the other wireless communication device including the first wireless communication device. (13) The wireless communication device according to any of (1) to (12), wherein the second wireless communication device is connected to a basic service set that overlaps with the surrounding area, and is connected to a basic service set to which the other wireless communication device including the first wireless communication device is connected. (14) A wireless communication method comprising: when a wireless communication device operates by obtaining transmission opportunities that arrive periodically at predetermined time intervals with a first wireless communication device, receiving a first signal transmitted from another wireless communication device including the first wireless communication device, the first signal including information on a surrounding communication state, determining whether to allow spatial reuse communication with a second wireless communication device based on the information included in the first signal, and when it is determined that spatial reuse communication is allowed, setting a first period during which spatial reuse communication is allowed in the time interval for the second wireless communication device. (15) A wireless communication device comprising: a control unit that detects, by a first wireless communication device that operates by obtaining transmission opportunities that arrive periodically at predetermined time intervals, that a first period during which spatial reuse communication is allowed in the time interval has been set, and controls data transmission with the second wireless communication device by spatial reuse communication during the first period. (16) The wireless communication device according to (15), wherein the control unit performs data transmission with the second wireless communication device by spatial reuse communication so as not to affect wireless communication by the first wireless communication device.(17) The wireless communication device according to (15) or (16), wherein, when a second period in which spatial reuse communication is prohibited in the time interval is set by the first wireless communication device, the control unit does not perform spatial reuse communication in the second period. (18) The wireless communication device according to any of (15) to (17), wherein, when the first period is set, the control unit performs data transmission by spatial reuse communication according to a format of data to be transmitted. (19) The wireless communication device according to any of (15) to (18), wherein the first wireless communication device is connected to a basic service set that overlaps with a surrounding basic service set to which the second wireless communication device is connected. (20) A wireless communication method, comprising: a wireless communication device detecting that a first period in which spatial reuse communication is permitted in the time interval is set by a first wireless communication device that operates by obtaining transmission opportunities that arrive periodically at predetermined time intervals; and performing data transmission with a second wireless communication device by spatial reuse communication during the first period.

[0197] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 10 Wireless communication device, 11 Network module, 12 Input module, 13 Control module, 14 Output module, 15 Wireless communication module, 101 Interface, 102 Transmission buffer, 103 Application management unit, 104 Frame construction unit, 105 R-TWT control unit, 106 Service period control unit, 107 Spatial reuse control unit, 108 Transmission signal processing unit, 109 Access control unit, 110 Antenna unit, 111 Received signal detection unit, 112 Frame analysis unit, 113 Received buffer

Claims

1. A wireless communication device comprising a control unit that, when operating by acquiring transmission opportunities that arrive periodically at predetermined time intervals with a first wireless communication device, receives a first signal containing information about surrounding communication conditions transmitted from other wireless communication devices including the first wireless communication device, determines whether to allow spatial reuse communication with a second wireless communication device based on the information contained in the first signal, and, if it is determined that spatial reuse communication is allowed, sets a first period for allowing spatial reuse communication at the time interval for the second wireless communication device.

2. The wireless communication device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit sets a second period during which spatial reuse communication is prohibited for the second wireless communication device in the time interval based on information contained in the first signal.

3. The wireless communication device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit sets the first period to be longer than the duration of the transmission opportunity when spatial reuse communication is permitted.

4. The wireless communication device according to claim 2, wherein the control unit, when prohibiting spatial reuse communication, sets the second period to be shorter than the duration of the transmission opportunity.

5. The wireless communication device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit allows spatial reuse communication when there is an overlapping basic service set in the vicinity based on information included in the first signal.

6. The wireless communication device according to claim 5, wherein the control unit allows spatial reuse communication depending on the number of surrounding overlapping basic service sets.

7. The wireless communication device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit allows spatial reuse communication depending on the number of other wireless communication devices, including the first wireless communication device, connected to a basic service set.

8. The wireless communication device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit allows spatial reuse communication depending on the type of application used in the basic service set.

9. The wireless communication device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit allows spatial reuse communication to continue beyond the first period.

10. The wireless communication device according to claim 2, wherein the control unit sets a first ratio, which is a predetermined time ratio in the time interval, as the first period, and sets a second ratio, which is smaller than the first ratio, as the second period.

11. The wireless communication device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit performs data transmission between the wireless communication device and the first wireless communication device.

12. The wireless communication device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit transmits a second signal requesting the first signal to another wireless communication device, including the first wireless communication device, and receives the first signal transmitted in response to the second signal from the other wireless communication device, including the first wireless communication device.

13. The wireless communication device according to claim 1, wherein the second wireless communication device is connected to a basic service set that overlaps with the surrounding area, and is connected to a basic service set to which other wireless communication devices, including the first wireless communication device, are connected.

14. A wireless communication method comprising: when a wireless communication device operates by acquiring transmission opportunities that arrive periodically at predetermined time intervals with a first wireless communication device, receiving a first signal including information on surrounding communication conditions transmitted from other wireless communication devices including the first wireless communication device; determining whether to allow spatial reuse communication with a second wireless communication device based on the information included in the first signal; and, if it is determined that spatial reuse communication is allowed, setting a first period for allowing spatial reuse communication during the time interval for the second wireless communication device.

15. A wireless communication device comprising: a first wireless communication device that operates by seizing transmission opportunities that arrive periodically at predetermined time intervals; a control unit that detects that a first period that allows spatial reuse communication during said time intervals has been set; and controls data transmission between the first wireless communication device and a second wireless communication device by spatial reuse communication during said first period.

16. The wireless communication device according to claim 15, wherein the control unit performs data transmission between the first wireless communication device and the second wireless communication device by spatial reuse communication so as not to affect wireless communication by the first wireless communication device.

17. The wireless communication device according to claim 15, wherein the control unit does not perform spatial reuse communication during the second period when the first wireless communication device sets a second period during which spatial reuse communication is prohibited during the time interval.

18. The wireless communication device according to claim 15, wherein, when the first period is set, the control unit performs data transmission by spatial reuse communication in accordance with the format of the data to be transmitted.

19. The wireless communication device of claim 15, wherein the first wireless communication device is connected to a surrounding overlapping basic service set, and the second wireless communication device is connected to a connected basic service set.

20. A wireless communication method comprising: a wireless communication device detecting that a first period allowing spatial reuse communication is set by a first wireless communication device that operates by seizing transmission opportunities that arrive periodically at predetermined time intervals; and transmitting data between the first period and a second wireless communication device by spatial reuse communication.

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