Communication method and apparatus

Abstract

The present application provides a communication method and an apparatus. The method comprises: sending a channel number of a first channel in a slot or event for sending measurement results of a plurality of channels; and receiving a first-type measurement frame on the first channel, wherein the first-type measurement frame comprises a preamble signal, the first channel is a channel among the plurality of channels, the first channel is used for initialization interaction of subsequent K channel measurements, and K is an integer greater than 0. The method can improve the accuracy of channel measurement.

Description

Communication methods and devices

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202410790174.6, filed with the State Intellectual Property Office of China on June 18, 2024, entitled "Communication Method and Apparatus", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and more specifically, to a communication method and apparatus. Background Technology

[0003] With the continuous development of global communication technologies, the development speed and application of wireless communication technology have surpassed those of wired communication technology, showing a booming development trend. Intelligent transportation equipment, smart home devices, robots, and other intelligent devices are gradually entering people's daily lives. Based on wireless communication technology, functions such as wireless measurement, sensing, and positioning can be achieved. Frequency hopping is a channel access or channel multiplexing technique in wireless communication. It uses a pseudo-random code sequence for frequency shift keying, causing the carrier frequency to continuously hop within a certain range, thereby expanding the spectrum. Because frequency hopping involves communication on multiple frequency points, even if some frequency points are interfered with, communication can still occur on other undisturbed frequency points, thus effectively resisting interference from certain frequencies and improving communication quality.

[0004] Currently, SparkLink's SparkLink Low Energy (SLE) and SparkLink Basic (SLB) positioning standards support frequency hopping measurement / sensing of narrowband single-carrier signals and orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) signals, respectively. In related technical solutions, each SLEM initialization phase occurs on the same channel (also known as the first channel), where, for example, the automatic gain control (AGC) setting for each channel can be configured. Using a fixed channel to configure the AGC setting in each SLEM can lead to signal saturation (measurement overflow) on some channels / frequency points, thus affecting the accuracy of channel measurements.

[0005] Therefore, improving the accuracy of channel measurements has become a pressing technical problem that needs to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This application provides a communication method and apparatus that can improve the accuracy of channel measurement.

[0007] In a first aspect, a communication method is provided, comprising: transmitting a channel number of a first channel in a time slot or event of transmitting measurement results of multiple channels, and receiving a first type of measurement frame on the first channel, the first type of measurement frame containing a preamble signal.

[0008] The first channel mentioned above is one of the multiple channels. This first channel is used for the initialization interaction of the subsequent K channel measurements, where K is an integer greater than 0.

[0009] As an example, taking SLE as an example, SLE defines an initialization phase event. This initialization phase event is the event that occurs at the beginning of K channel measurements. That is, the initialization phase event is the first event in the K channel measurement event group. Here, an event group represents a data transmission process consisting of multiple events. If an initialization phase exists in the configured event group, the first event in each event group is called the initialization phase event. In this initialization phase event, the first-sending node and the subsequent-sending node transmit data according to the rules determined by the initialization phase interaction type. In one event, the first-sending node is the node that sends data at the beginning of the event, and the subsequent-sending node sends data after the first-sending node has transmitted its data.

[0010] In the above technical solution, by sending the channel number of the first channel for the initialization interaction of subsequent K channel measurements in the time slot or event of sending the measurement results of multiple channels, and receiving a first type of measurement frame containing a preamble signal for configuring the AGC level on the first channel, the phenomenon of partial channel / frequency point reception signal saturation caused by using a fixed channel to configure the AGC level in the initialization interaction of subsequent K channel measurements can be avoided, thereby improving the accuracy of channel measurement.

[0011] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, receiving a first type of measurement frame on the first channel includes: receiving the first type of measurement frame on the first channel after receiving an ACK message for the channel number of the first channel.

[0012] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the ACK information is indicated by the receive sequence number field in the physical layer control information of the radio frame.

[0013] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the method further includes: acquiring measurement results of the plurality of channels; and determining the channel number of the first channel based on the measurement results of the plurality of channels.

[0014] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, determining the channel number of the first channel based on the measurement results of the multiple channels includes: determining whether any of the multiple channels has experienced measurement value overflow; and when any of the multiple channels has experienced measurement value overflow, determining the channel number of the first channel based on the measurement results of the multiple channels.

[0015] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the channel number of the first channel is carried in the measurement information reporting message.

[0016] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the method further includes: transmitting the first type of measurement frame on the first channel.

[0017] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the method further includes: receiving a second type of measurement frame on the plurality of channels, the second type of measurement frame including a measurement signal; measuring the measurement signal in the second type of measurement frame to obtain the measurement results of the plurality of channels in the subsequent K channel measurements.

[0018] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the method further includes: transmitting second type measurement frames on the plurality of channels respectively.

[0019] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the second type of measurement frame contains only a measurement signal used to measure the measurement results of the plurality of channels in the subsequent K channel measurements.

[0020] In the above technical solution, when performing channel measurements on multiple channels, a second type of measurement frame containing only the measurement signal is used. This reduces the air interface measurement time and improves the refresh rate of the measurement process.

[0021] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the preamble signal is used to configure the automatic gain control (AGC) level used for the subsequent K channel measurements.

[0022] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the method further includes: sending or receiving configuration information, which includes the value of K.

[0023] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the measurement of the channel is a star-flash low-power measurement SLEM or a bidirectional ranging DDR.

[0024] In conjunction with the first aspect, in certain implementations of the first aspect, the measurement result includes at least one of the following information: Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI), Carrier Frequency Offset (CFO), and Channel State Information (CSI) of the plurality of channels.

[0025] In a second aspect, a communication device is provided, comprising: a transceiver unit, wherein the transceiver unit is configured to transmit a channel number of a first channel in a time slot or event of transmitting measurement results of multiple channels, the first channel being a channel among the multiple channels, the first channel being used for initialization interaction of subsequent K channel measurements, the K being an integer greater than 0; the transceiver unit is further configured to receive a first type of measurement frame on the first channel, the first type of measurement frame containing a preamble signal.

[0026] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the transceiver unit is specifically used to: receive the first type of measurement frame on the first channel after receiving an ACK message for the channel number of the first channel.

[0027] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the ACK information is indicated by the receive sequence number field in the physical layer control information of the radio frame.

[0028] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the apparatus further includes: a processing unit for acquiring measurement results of the plurality of channels; the processing unit is further configured to determine the channel number of the first channel based on the measurement results of the plurality of channels.

[0029] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the processing unit is specifically used to: determine whether any of the multiple channels has experienced measurement value overflow based on the measurement results of the multiple channels; and when a channel in the multiple channels experiences measurement value overflow, determine the channel number of the first channel based on the measurement results of the multiple channels.

[0030] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the channel number of the first channel is carried in the measurement information reporting message.

[0031] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the transceiver unit is also used to transmit the first type of measurement frame on the first channel.

[0032] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the transceiver unit is further configured to receive a second type of measurement frame on the plurality of channels, the second type of measurement frame including a measurement signal; the processing unit is further configured to measure the measurement signal in the second type of measurement frame to obtain the measurement results of the plurality of channels in the subsequent K channel measurements.

[0033] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the transceiver unit is also used to transmit second type measurement frames on the multiple channels respectively.

[0034] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the second type of measurement frame contains only a measurement signal used to measure the measurement results of the multiple channels in the subsequent K channel measurements.

[0035] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the preamble signal is used to configure the automatic gain control (AGC) level used for the subsequent K channel measurements.

[0036] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the transceiver unit is also used to receive or send configuration information, which includes the value of K.

[0037] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the measurement of the channel is a star-flash low-power measurement SLEM or a bidirectional ranging DDR.

[0038] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the measurement result includes at least one of the following information: Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI), Carrier Frequency Offset (CFO), and Channel State Information (CSI) of the plurality of channels.

[0039] It should be understood that for the beneficial effects of the second aspect and its various implementations, please refer to the first aspect and its various implementations; they will not be repeated here.

[0040] Thirdly, a communication device is provided, which can be a first node, or a device or module for performing the functions of a first node.

[0041] In one possible implementation, the communication device may include modules or units corresponding to the methods / operations / steps / actions described in the first aspect, which may be hardware circuits, software, or a combination of hardware circuits and software.

[0042] Fourthly, a communication device is provided, which can be a follow-up node, or a device or module for performing follow-up node functions, etc.

[0043] In one possible implementation, the communication device may include modules or units corresponding to the methods / operations / steps / actions described in the second aspect, which may be hardware circuits, software, or a combination of hardware circuits and software.

[0044] Fifthly, a communication device is provided, including a processor configured to, by executing a computer program or instructions, or by logic circuitry, cause the communication device to perform the methods described in the first aspect and any possible method of the first aspect.

[0045] In one possible implementation, the communication device further includes a memory for storing the computer program or instructions.

[0046] In one possible implementation, the communication device further includes a communication interface for inputting and / or outputting signals.

[0047] A sixth aspect provides a communication device including logic circuitry and an input / output interface for inputting and / or outputting signals, the logic circuitry being configured to perform the methods described in the first aspect and any possible embodiment of the first aspect.

[0048] In a seventh aspect, a computer-readable storage medium is provided that stores a computer program or instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the first aspect and any of the methods described in the first aspect to be performed.

[0049] Eighthly, a computer program product is provided, comprising instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the first aspect and any of the methods described in the first aspect to be performed.

[0050] The descriptions of the beneficial effects in aspects three through eight correspond to the descriptions of the beneficial effects in aspect one. Attached Figure Description

[0051] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an applicable communication system 100 according to an embodiment of this application.

[0052] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the applicable scenarios of the embodiments of this application.

[0053] Figure 3 is a schematic flowchart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0054] Figure 4 is a schematic flowchart of another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0055] Figure 5 is a schematic block diagram of measurement frame type 1 sent by the first node according to an embodiment of this application.

[0056] Figure 6 is a schematic block diagram of measurement frame type 1 sent by the subsequent node according to an embodiment of this application.

[0057] Figure 7 is a schematic block diagram of measurement frame type 2 sent by the first and second sending nodes according to an embodiment of this application.

[0058] Figure 8 is a schematic block diagram of measurement frame type 3 sent by the first node according to an embodiment of this application.

[0059] Figure 9 is a schematic block diagram of measurement frame type 3 sent by the subsequent node according to an embodiment of this application.

[0060] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of transmitting measurement frame type 1 / measurement frame type 3 on an AGC channel according to an embodiment of this application.

[0061] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of transmitting measurement frame type 2 on channel 0-channel M according to an embodiment of this application.

[0062] Figure 12 is a schematic block diagram of a communication device 500 according to an embodiment of this application.

[0063] Figure 13 is a schematic block diagram of a communication device 600 according to an embodiment of this application.

[0064] Figure 14 is a schematic block diagram of a communication device 700 according to an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0065] The technical solutions in this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0066] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, the following points will be explained first.

[0067] I. In this application, unless otherwise stated, "multiple" means two or more.

[0068] II. In this application, unless otherwise specified or in case of logical conflict, the terms and / or descriptions of different embodiments are consistent and can be referenced by each other. The technical features of different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments according to their inherent logical relationship.

[0069] III. The various numerical designations used in this application are merely for descriptive convenience and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. The magnitude of the serial numbers used in this application does not imply a sequential order of execution; the execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic. For example, the terms "first," "second," "third," "fourth," and other various terminology (if present) in the specification, claims, and drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. Such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments described herein can be implemented in a sequence other than that illustrated or described herein.

[0070] Furthermore, any embodiment or design described as "exemplary" or "for example" in this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or designs. Specifically, the use of terms such as "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a concrete manner for ease of understanding.

[0071] IV. The terms “comprising” and “having” and any variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, for example, a process, method, system, product or device that includes a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units that are expressly listed, but may include other steps or units that are not expressly listed or that are inherent to such process, method, product or device.

[0072] V. In this application, "pre-configuration" may include pre-defined terms, such as protocol definitions. These "pre-defined terms" can be implemented by pre-storing corresponding codes, tables, or other means that can be used to indicate relevant information in the device; this application does not limit the specific implementation method.

[0073] VI. The term "storage" or "preservation" in this application can refer to storage in one or more memory devices. These memory devices can be separately configured or integrated into an encoder, decoder, processor, or communication device. Alternatively, some memory devices can be separately configured, while others can be integrated into a decoder, processor, or communication device. The type of memory can be any form of storage medium, and this is not limited.

[0074] VII. The “protocol” involved in this application may refer to standard protocols in the field of communications, such as fourth-generation (4G) network protocols, fifth-generation (5G) network protocols, new radio (NR) protocols, 5.5G network protocols, sixth-generation (6G) network protocols, and related protocols applied in future communication systems. This application does not limit the scope of the term.

[0075] 8. In the schematic diagrams in the accompanying drawings of this application, the dashed arrows or boxes indicate optional steps or optional modules.

[0076] 9. In this application, unless otherwise stated, " / " indicates that the objects before and after are in an "or" relationship. For example, A / B can mean A or B. In this application, "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between the related objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, A and / or B can mean: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists alone. A and B can be singular or plural.

[0077] With the continuous development of global communication technologies, the development speed and application of wireless communication technology have surpassed those of wired communication technology, showing a booming development trend. Intelligent transportation equipment, smart home devices, robots, and other intelligent devices are gradually entering people's daily lives. Based on wireless communication technology, functions such as wireless measurement, sensing, and positioning can be realized.

[0078] Frequency hopping is a carrier frequency shifting technique in wireless communication. It uses a pseudo-random code sequence for frequency shift keying, causing the carrier frequency to continuously hop within a certain range, thereby expanding the spectrum. Frequency hopping technology has several significant advantages, such as strong anti-interference capabilities. Because frequency hopping involves communication on multiple frequency points, even if some frequency points are interfered with, communication can still proceed on other undisturbed frequency points, effectively resisting interference from certain frequencies and improving communication quality. Furthermore, frequency hopping communication is relatively covert and difficult to intercept. Unless the other party is unaware of the carrier frequency hopping pattern, it is very difficult to intercept the communication content. StarScan SLE communication utilizes frequency hopping technology.

[0079] First, the communication system to which the embodiments of this application are applicable will be described.

[0080] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an applicable communication system 100 according to an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 1, the communication system 100 includes a transmitting device 110 and a receiving device 120. The transmitting device 110 is a device that transmits measurement signals, and the receiving device 120 is a device that receives measurement signals.

[0081] It should be noted that Figure 1 is only used as an example to illustrate that the communication system 100 includes a transmitting device 110 and a receiving device 120, but the communication system 100 is not limited to including more other devices, and this application does not make specific limitations in this regard.

[0082] As an example, the communication system 100 may include, but is not limited to: SparkLink low energy (SLE), SparkLink basic (SLB), Bluetooth low energy (BLE), Wi-Fi, ultra-wideband (UWB), etc.

[0083] SLE is a low-power mode of access layer in StarFlash technology, characterized by low power consumption, low latency, and high reliability. This technology uses single-carrier transmission, operates in the unlicensed 2.4GHz band, and supports various bandwidths such as 1MHz, 2MHz, and 4MHz. It supports multiple modulation schemes including Gaussian Frequency Shift Keying (GFSK), Binary Phase Shift Keying (BPSK), Quadrature Phase Shift Keying (QPSK), and 8-phase shift keying (8PSK). SLE supports one-to-many reliable multicast, low-latency interoperability, and secure pairing, maximizing transmission efficiency while fully considering energy conservation. This makes SLE technology advantageous in low-power, lightweight connectivity scenarios, such as various smart wearable products.

[0084] SLB is one of the supporting technologies of the access layer in Starlight technology, primarily pursuing high bandwidth, high capacity, and high precision. It supports single / multi-carrier operation in the 5GHz unlicensed frequency band, with a bandwidth range from 20MHz to 320MHz, and supports various modulation schemes. SLB utilizes technologies such as ultra-short frames, multi-point synchronization, and hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) to improve communication performance, possessing technical characteristics of low latency, high reliability, high synchronization accuracy, support for high concurrency, and high information security.

[0085] The StarScan wireless communication system can include multiple communication domains. Each communication domain can include one master node and at least one slave node. The master node can be a G-node (grant node), and the slave node can be a terminal node (T-node). Here, a communication domain refers to the communication resources of the G-link and T-link of a G-node (management node) in the StarScan wireless communication system. A G-node is a node in the management and control network of the wireless short-range communication system. This node is responsible for managing the time and frequency resources of the communication domain and has the function of scheduling resources for communication, positioning, measurement, or sensing between communication nodes in the communication domain. A T-node is a node in the wireless short-range communication system that receives data scheduling information and transmits data according to the data scheduling information.

[0086] In this embodiment of the application, the transmitting device 110 can be a G node or a T node, and the receiving device 120 can also be a G node or a T node. For example, the transmitting device 110 is a G node and the receiving device 120 is a T node. Alternatively, the transmitting device 110 can be a T node and the receiving device 120 can be a G node. Or, the transmitting device 110 can be a T node and the receiving device 120 can be a T node.

[0087] In SparkLink wireless communication technology, an initiating node is the node that first initiates communication during a communication process; that is, the node that sends data at the beginning of an event. An initiating node can be any device with SparkLink communication capabilities. It sends signals or data packets containing necessary information according to the communication protocol and rules to establish a connection with subsequent nodes or transmit data. A subsequent node is the node that responds to the signals of the initiating node during communication; that is, in an event, the subsequent node sends data after the initiating node has transmitted data. A subsequent node can be a device responding to a request from the initiating node or a device receiving data sent by the initiating node. Initiating and subsequent nodes are analogous to initiators or reflectors in BLE. An event represents the minimum basic process of data transmission in the SparkLink SLE or BLE standard. For example, in the SparkLink SLE standard, an event can be a communication process in which two devices send and receive data sequentially, or a process in which a broadcast device sends data.

[0088] The embodiments of this application can be used in short-range communication scenarios such as vehicle-mounted and indoor positioning / ranging / sensing, as well as in other wide-area wireless communication or local wireless communication scenarios. In this application, the steps for achieving positioning, ranging, angle measurement, or sensing are similar, so any of the terms "positioning," "ranging," "angle measurement," "measurement," or "sensing" can refer to "positioning, ranging, angle measurement, measurement, or sensing."

[0089] The following are some possible application scenarios.

[0090] Scenario 1 (Vehicle Positioning Scenario):

[0091] Passive Entry Passive Start (PEPS) is an example of in-vehicle wireless positioning applications. In PEPS, users do not need to use a key; instead, the in-vehicle positioning system can automatically lock or unlock the car doors by locating the user's car key / phone.

[0092] For example, as shown in Figure 2, dedicated positioning anchor points (or positioning stations) are deployed at the four corners of the vehicle exterior. PEPS positioning anchor points are deployed near the center console / rearview mirror / ceiling (interior of the roof) inside the vehicle. In-vehicle wireless communication devices such as displays, microphones, speakers, cameras, and T-BOXs can also be reused as positioning stations for locating the car key (traditional car key / mobile phone). The car key represents the electronic device being located by the positioning node; it can be a traditional car key with positioning capabilities, or a mobile phone / wearable device with positioning capabilities. In Figure 2, the G node can be the car key / mobile phone, in which case all positioning nodes on the vehicle are T nodes; alternatively, the PEPS control node among the positioning nodes can act as the G node, and the remaining devices are T nodes.

[0093] Scenario 2 (Vehicle-mounted wireless sensing scenario):

[0094] The anchor points of the vehicle positioning system can also be reused for wireless sensing, such as sensing a person's kicking motion in the trunk, so as to automatically open / close the trunk when the kicking motion is detected.

[0095] For example, as shown in Figure 2, the positioning anchor points located on both sides of the trunk can be used to sense kicking motions from people in the trunk, automatically opening / closing the trunk when a kicking motion is detected. Alternatively, anchor points deployed inside the vehicle can be used for child presence detection (CPD), which uses wireless measurement signals to detect the breathing or movements of children left in the vehicle to identify whether a child has been left behind.

[0096] Currently, StarScan's SLE and SLB positioning standards support frequency hopping measurement / sensing for narrowband single-carrier / multi-tone signals and orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) signals, respectively. OFDM signal frequency hopping refers to the switching of the DC subcarrier of an OFDM symbol from the center frequency of one carrier channel to the center frequency of another. Taking a single SLE frequency hopping measurement as an example, SLE currently performs frequency hopping measurements in the 2402–2480 MHz range. The hopping method can be random frequency hopping or sequential frequency sweeping of the operating frequency band, with a channel bandwidth of 1 MHz / 2 MHz / 4 MHz for each measurement. After SLE sequentially completes bidirectional measurements of all frequencies within the operating frequency band and obtains the measurement results, this is called a single SLE measurement (SLEM). Bidirectional measurement means that the first node sends a measurement frame, waits for the frame interval, and then the subsequent node sends another measurement frame. SLEM can also be called an event group or measurement event group. An event group is a data transmission process consisting of multiple events. A measurement frame event is defined as the bidirectional interaction between a pair of devices completing one measurement frame on each 1MHz / 2MHz / 4MHz channel. Specifically, based on the measurement frame type, measurement frame events are categorized as measurement frame type 1 events, measurement frame type 2 events, measurement frame type 3 events, etc. For example, in an event group transmitting measurement frame type 1 events, both the initiating node and the subsequent node send measurement frame type 1 data. In the embodiments of this application, the channel can also be referred to as a frequency point. For example, when using a single-tone modulation method for measurement frames, the channel is equivalent to a frequency point, and the channel number is equivalent to the frequency point number.

[0097] In a single SLEM, the measurement results for all frequencies (also known as channels) are determined separately based on the automatic gain control (AGC) setting for each channel. AGC is a closed-loop feedback adjustment circuit in the receiver amplifier, designed to maintain a suitable output signal amplitude regardless of changes in the input signal amplitude. To ensure unsaturated and distortion-free linear amplification of the signal by the RF receiver, the AGC gain of the RF receiver is typically controlled according to the strength of the input signal, maintaining an appropriate output signal level. Each AGC setting corresponds to a range of the input signal; that is, when the AGC setting matches the input signal strength, the RF receiver can output a suitable output signal. This AGC setting is configured on one channel (also known as the first channel) during the initialization phase of the SLEM and applied to all channels within the target operating channel range. For a single SLEM, there may be an initialization phase event. If an initialization phase exists in the configuration event group, the first event in each event group is called the initialization phase event. In this event, the first and subsequent transmitting nodes transmit according to the rules determined by the initialization phase interaction type.

[0098] In the relevant technical solutions, each initialization phase of SLEM is performed on the same fixed channel (also known as the first channel). This initialization phase includes configuring / training the aforementioned AGC settings. This can lead to signal saturation issues at certain channels / frequency points. For example, if the initialization interaction to configure the AGC settings is always performed on the same fixed channel, the frequency selectivity of the measurement band may cause the AGC settings configured on the first channel to be too low, resulting in saturation of measurement results at certain frequency points (e.g., in-phase and quadrature (IQ) components). After saturation occurs, when the SLE measurement results (e.g., IQ components) are represented using a limited bit width, saturation will occur on channels with severe frequency selectivity, resulting in overflow of the represented measurement values.

[0099] In view of this, embodiments of this application provide a communication method that can dynamically adjust the channel used in the SLEM initialization phase based on the saturation problem of the measurement results, thereby avoiding the channel / frequency point received signal saturation problem caused by fixing the channel used for initialization interaction, and thus improving the accuracy of channel measurement.

[0100] The communication method of the present application embodiment is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0101] Figure 3 is a schematic flowchart of a communication method according to an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 3, the method may include steps 310-320, which will be described in detail below.

[0102] It should be understood that the embodiments of this application do not specifically limit the device for executing the method flow in FIG3. It can be executed by the transmitting device 110, or by a module and / or device (e.g., a chip or integrated circuit) with corresponding functions installed in the transmitting device 110. Alternatively, it can be executed by the receiving device 120, or by a module and / or device (e.g., a chip or integrated circuit) with corresponding functions installed in the receiving device 120.

[0103] Step 310: In the time slot or event of sending measurement results for multiple channels, send the channel number of the first channel.

[0104] Optionally, before step 310, measurement results from multiple channels can be obtained. For example, measurement frames sent by the peer device can be received on each of the multiple channels, each measurement frame including a measurement signal, and the measurement signals received on each of the multiple channels can be measured to obtain the measurement results for the multiple channels.

[0105] It should be noted that, as an example, if the device performing the method flow shown in FIG3 is a transmitting device 110 or a module and / or device (e.g., a chip or integrated circuit, etc.) with corresponding functions installed in the transmitting device 110, then the aforementioned peer device can be a receiving device 120 or a module and / or device (e.g., a chip or integrated circuit, etc.) with corresponding functions installed in the receiving device 120. As another example, if the device performing the method flow shown in FIG3 is a receiving device 120 or a module and / or device (e.g., a chip or integrated circuit, etc.) with corresponding functions installed in the receiving device 120, then the aforementioned peer device can be a transmitting device 110 or a module and / or device (e.g., a chip or integrated circuit, etc.) with corresponding functions installed in the transmitting device 110.

[0106] This application does not specifically limit the measurement results of the channel. The measurement results may include, but are not limited to, at least one of the following: received signal strength indication (RSSI), carrier frequency offset (CFO), channel state information (CSI), and timing deviation. CSI is a complex value (with two channels, I and Q), therefore CSI can also be referred to as IQ.

[0107] The measurement frame that includes the measurement signal can also be called the second type of measurement frame. This second type of measurement frame can contain only the measurement signal, which can shorten the channel measurement time and improve the efficiency of channel measurement.

[0108] Optionally, before step 310, a measurement frame may be sent to the peer device on the multiple channels. The measurement frame includes a measurement signal. The sent measurement signal is used by the peer device to measure the measurement signals received on the multiple channels respectively, and obtain the measurement results of the multiple channels.

[0109] Optionally, before step 310, the channel number of the first channel can be determined based on the measurement results of multiple channels. The first channel is one of the multiple channels mentioned above. The first channel is used for the initialization interaction process in the subsequent k measurement processes, where k is an integer greater than 0.

[0110] As an example, taking SLE as an example, SLE defines an initialization phase event. This initialization phase event is the event that occurs at the beginning of K channel measurements; that is, the initialization phase event is the first event in the K channel measurement event group. Here, an event group represents a data transmission process consisting of multiple events. If an initialization phase exists in the configured event group, the first event in each event group is called the initialization phase event. In this initialization phase event, the first and subsequent nodes transmit according to the rules determined by the initialization phase interaction type.

[0111] It should be understood that the first sending node can be either the sending device 110 or the receiving device 120, and the second sending node can be either the receiving device 120 or the sending device 110. That is, the sending device 110 can be the first sending node, and the receiving device 120 can be the second sending node. Alternatively, the receiving device 120 can be the first sending node, and the sending device 110 can be the second sending node. This application does not impose any specific limitations on this.

[0112] During the initialization interaction described above, the content that the first node and the subsequent node can exchange includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the following:

[0113] 1. The channel number of the first channel used during the initialization phase;

[0114] 2. The type of measurement frame used in the measurement interaction during the initialization phase;

[0115] 3. The type of measurement frame used in subsequent measurement interactions.

[0116] The following describes a specific implementation method for determining the channel number of the first channel based on the measurement results of multiple channels.

[0117] In one possible implementation, it can be determined whether any of the multiple channels has experienced measurement overflow based on the measurement results of multiple channels. If any of the multiple channels has experienced measurement overflow, it can be determined that a channel has become saturated. Then, the channel number of the first channel can be determined based on the channel saturation situation.

[0118] The measurement results for the aforementioned multiple channels include the measurement results of multiple channels measured by the first node and the measurement results of multiple channels measured by the subsequent node. That is, it is necessary to obtain the measurement results of multiple channels measured locally, and also to obtain the measurement results of the same multiple channels measured by the peer device.

[0119] For example, if channel saturation is detected, the channel number of the first channel is determined based on parameters such as the range of saturated channels and the magnitude of the saturation value.

[0120] For example, taking the channel measurement results as IQ components, the first / second node finds the channel with the lowest IQ component amplitude. Then, through interpolation, the channel with the highest IQ component amplitude is found within the saturation range. The channel number of the first channel is obtained by averaging the numbers of the channels with the lowest and highest IQ component amplitudes.

[0121] In this embodiment of the application, after the channel number of the first channel is determined, the channel number of the first channel can be sent in the time slot or event of sending the measurement results of multiple channels.

[0122] It should be understood that the events described above represent the minimum basic process of data transmission in the StarSignal or BLE standards. For example, in the StarSignal SLE standard, an event could be a communication process in which two devices send and receive data sequentially, or a process in which a broadcast device sends data.

[0123] In one implementation, the channel number of the first channel can be carried in the measurement information reporting message. It should be understood that, for example, if the first node needs to report measurement information, it can include the channel number of the first channel in its measurement information reporting message. Similarly, if a subsequent node needs to report measurement information, it can include the channel number of the first channel in its measurement information reporting message. In the Star-Scan SLE standard, the measurement information reporting message can also be called a narrowband frequency-hopping measurement information reporting message.

[0124] For example, Table 1 below provides a detailed description of the frame structure of the measurement information reporting message. A new row, "Next Initialization Phase Channel Number" or "Subsequent K Initialization Phase Channel Numbers," is added to Table 1 to indicate the initialization channel number for the next or subsequent K phases. It can be seen that the Channel State Information (CSI) information in the measurement information reporting message—both the I-channel and Q-channel—indicates the CSI information of the measurement result. By feeding back the initialization phase channel number (i.e., the channel number of the first channel) through the measurement information reporting message, the number of messages sent can be reduced, and the transmission delay of the initialization phase channel number can be lowered, allowing for better utilization of the adjusted initialization phase channel number within the channel coherence time.

[0125] Table 1. Frame structure of measurement information reporting messages.

[0126] Referring to Table 1 above, the measurement information reporting message may include a "Next Initialization Phase Channel Number" field. The value of this field indicates the channel number of the first channel in the initial phase of the next or subsequent K SLEM / measurement event groups. As an example, this field can occupy 8 bits. The default value for this field is 0 or 255, indicating that it is the same as the initial phase channel number of the previous SLEM.

[0127] Step 320: Receive a first type of measurement frame on the first channel, the first type of measurement frame including a preamble signal.

[0128] In this embodiment, after sending the channel number of the first channel to the peer device, a first type of measurement frame can be received from the peer device. For example, after sending the channel number of the first channel to the peer device, if the peer device agrees to use the first channel in the initialization phase of the subsequent K channel measurements, the peer device can send a first type of measurement frame.

[0129] In one possible implementation, after receiving the channel number of the first channel, if the peer device agrees to use the first channel in the initialization phase of the subsequent K channel measurements, it can also send an acknowledgment (ACK) for the channel number of the first channel. Specifically, in the transmission event / slot of the measurement information reporting message, after successfully receiving the measurement information reporting message, the peer device replies with an ACK indicating that the initialization phase event of the next measurement event group will proceed according to the channel number indicated in the next initialization phase channel number (or the channel number of the subsequent K initialization phases) field. Specifically, in SLE, the receive sequence number in the physical layer control information field corresponds to the ACK / NACK feedback information, indicating the sequence number of the packet that the peer is expected to send next.

[0130] The aforementioned first type of measurement frame includes a preamble signal used to configure the AGC level. This AGC level can also be referred to as the AGC gain. The aforementioned first type of measurement frame can be measurement frame type 1 or measurement frame type 3 in the SLE standard.

[0131] It should be understood that AGC (Automatic Gain Control) is a closed-loop feedback regulation circuit in a receiver amplifier. Its purpose is to maintain a suitable output signal amplitude regardless of changes in the input signal amplitude. To ensure that the RF receiver's linear amplification of the signal is unsaturated and undistorted, the AGC gain of the RF receiver is usually controlled according to the strength of the input signal, so that the output signal of the RF receiver maintains an appropriate level. Each AGC level corresponds to a range of the input signal; that is, when the AGC level and the input signal strength are matched, the RF receiver can output a suitable output signal.

[0132] Optionally, in some embodiments, a first type of measurement frame may also be sent to the peer device, the first type of measurement frame including a preamble signal for configuring the AGC gear on the peer device.

[0133] The embodiments of this application do not specifically limit the frame structure of the first type of measurement frame, as long as it can include a preamble signal for configuring the AGC gear position. The following will illustrate several possible frame structures of the first type of measurement frame with specific examples, which will not be repeated here.

[0134] In the above technical solution, by sending the channel number of the first channel for the initialization interaction of subsequent K channel measurements in the time slot or event of sending the measurement results of multiple channels, and receiving a first type of measurement frame containing a preamble signal for configuring the AGC level on the first channel, the phenomenon of partial channel / frequency point reception signal saturation caused by using a fixed channel to configure the AGC level in the initialization interaction of subsequent K channel measurements can be avoided, thereby improving the accuracy of channel measurement.

[0135] The following detailed description, with reference to Figure 4, illustrates a specific aspect of the communication method provided in this application embodiment. It should be understood that the examples in Figure 4 are merely illustrative to help those skilled in the art understand the embodiments of this application, and are not intended to limit the embodiments to the specific values ​​or scenarios illustrated in Figure 4. Those skilled in the art can obviously make various equivalent modifications or variations based on the examples given below in Figure 4, and such modifications and variations also fall within the scope of the embodiments of this application.

[0136] Figure 4 is a schematic flowchart of another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. The method flow in Figure 4 can be executed by the initiating node and the subsequent node, or by modules and / or devices (e.g., chips or integrated circuits) with corresponding functions installed in the initiating node and the subsequent node, without limitation. For ease of description, the following description uses the execution of the method flow in Figure 4 by the initiating node and the subsequent node as an example.

[0137] It should be understood that the first sending node can be either the aforementioned sending device 110 or the aforementioned receiving device 120; the subsequent sending node can be either the aforementioned receiving device 120 or the sending device 110. This application embodiment does not specifically limit this.

[0138] As shown in Figure 4, the method may include steps 410-475, which will be described in detail below.

[0139] Step 410: The first node configures AGC for SLEM0.

[0140] In this embodiment of the application, the first node can initialize the following information in SLEM0: the physical channel number of the AGC gear during the initialization phase, the type of measurement frame used for measurement interaction during the initialization phase, the type of measurement signal used during the initialization phase, and the type of measurement frame used for measurement interaction in subsequent phases.

[0141] The aforementioned measurement signal is used for SLE measurement (SLEM) in ranging / positioning / sensing. This measurement signal can be a narrowband single-carrier signal, such as a single-frequency sine wave transmitted through a 1MHz / 2MHz / 4MHz channel in SLE, or a binary phase-shift keying (BPSK) signal without phase rotation. It can also be a multi-tone signal, OFDM signal, or amplitude-shift keying (ASK) signal; this application does not specifically limit the type. For example, the measurement signal includes, but is not limited to, GFSK measurement signals and PSK measurement signals. The modulation method and bandwidth of the measurement signal can be the same as the synchronization signal of the measurement frame. When using a multi-tone signal, measurement results at multiple frequency points can be obtained from the measurement of one channel.

[0142] Example 1: Suppose that the configured first node configures the channel used for the AGC gear to be channel 1 during the initialization phase.

[0143] Example 2: Suppose that the configured first node uses measurement frame type 1 or measurement frame type 3 during the initialization phase.

[0144] In one possible implementation, the measurement frame type 1 used by the first node is shown in Figure 5. In Figure 5, the measurement frame type 1 includes a preamble signal, a synchronization signal, an equalization protection signal, a switching interval, and a measurement signal.

[0145] In another possible implementation, the measurement frame type 3 used by the first node is shown in Figure 6. In Figure 6, the measurement frame type 3 includes a preamble signal, a synchronization channel, and an equalization protection signal.

[0146] The aforementioned preamble signal is used for AGC gear configuration / training. This application does not specifically limit the preamble signal in its embodiments. For example, when the synchronization signal uses GFSK modulation, the preamble signal uses a GFSK-modulated sequence of alternating [0, 1] intervals, with a preamble signal length of 10µs. Similarly, when the synchronization signal uses PSK modulation, the preamble signal uses a BPSK-modulated sequence of alternating [0, 1] intervals without phase rotation, with a preamble signal length of 10µs.

[0147] Example 3: Suppose that the configured first node uses the GFSK measurement signal during the initialization phase.

[0148] Example 4: Suppose that the type of measurement frame used by the configured first node to perform measurement interactions with the subsequent node in a later stage is measurement frame type 2.

[0149] In one possible implementation, the measurement frame type 2 used by the first node is shown in Figure 7. In Figure 7, the measurement frame type 2 only includes the measurement signal.

[0150] In this embodiment, during the AGC configuration process, since the frequency hopping measurement only performs AGC configuration once at the beginning of a single frequency hopping measurement (SLEM) (i.e., the measurement initialization phase), and the AGC level remains unchanged during the measurement process, AGC will not introduce random amplitude or phase changes during the measurement, which is beneficial for the coherent accumulation of frequency hopping narrowband measurement information (such as channel state information). Moreover, since the measurement frame type 1 or measurement frame type 3 with a longer frame length is used only in the measurement initialization phase, while the measurement frame type 2 composed of pure measurement signals is used in subsequent measurement phases, the transmission overhead and power consumption of the frequency hopping measurement are greatly reduced, the measurement time of the entire frequency hopping measurement is shortened, and the measurement refresh rate is improved.

[0151] Step 415: The subsequent node performs AGC configuration on SLEM0.

[0152] In this embodiment, the subsequent node can initialize the following information in SLEM0: the physical channel number of the AGC gear during the initialization phase, the type of measurement frame used for measurement interaction during the initialization phase, the type of measurement signal used during the initialization phase, and the type of measurement frame used for measurement interaction in subsequent phases.

[0153] Example 1: Suppose that the configured late-developing node is configured to use channel 1 for the AGC gear during the initialization phase.

[0154] Example 2: Suppose that the configured follow-up node uses measurement frame type 1 or measurement frame type 3 during the initialization phase.

[0155] In one possible implementation, the measurement frame type 1 used by the subsequent node is shown in Figure 8. In Figure 8, the measurement frame type 1 includes a measurement signal, a switching interval, a preamble signal, a synchronization signal, and an equalization protection signal.

[0156] In another possible implementation, the measurement frame type 3 used by the first node is shown in Figure 9. In Figure 9, the measurement frame type 3 includes a preamble signal, a synchronization signal, an equalization protection signal, a switching interval, and a measurement signal.

[0157] It should be understood that if the first node uses measurement frame type 1 during the initialization phase, the subsequent node will also use measurement frame type 1 during the initialization phase. If the first node uses measurement frame type 3 during the initialization phase, the subsequent node will also use measurement frame type 3 during the initialization phase.

[0158] Example 3: Suppose that the configured follow-up node uses the GFSK measurement signal during the initialization phase.

[0159] Example 4: Suppose that the type of measurement frame used by the configured follow-up node in subsequent stages for measurement interaction with the lead node is measurement frame type 2.

[0160] In one possible implementation, the measurement frame type 2 used by the subsequent node is shown in Figure 7. In Figure 7, the measurement frame type 2 only includes the measurement signal.

[0161] Step 420: During the initialization phase of SLEM0, the first node sends measurement frame type 1 / measurement frame type 3 to the subsequent node on channel 1.

[0162] In this embodiment, during the initialization phase of SLEM0, the first node can send measurement frame type 1 / measurement frame type 3 to the subsequent node on channel 1 according to the aforementioned initialization configuration information. After receiving the measurement frame type 1 / measurement frame type 3 sent by the first node, the subsequent node can configure the AGC level used by the subsequent node in SLEM0 based on the preamble channel in measurement frame type 1 / measurement frame type 3, for example, AGC level X.

[0163] For example, as shown in Figure 10, the first node can send measurement frame type 1 / measurement frame type 3 to the subsequent node on the AGC channel, which can correspond to channel 1 mentioned above.

[0164] Step 425: During the initialization phase of SLEM0, the subsequent node sends measurement frame type 1 / measurement frame type 3 to the preceding node on channel 1.

[0165] In this embodiment, during the initialization phase of SLEM0, the subsequent node can send measurement frame type 1 / measurement frame type 3 to the preceding node on channel 1 according to the initialization configuration information (e.g., the frequency point field of the initialization phase in the measurement signal configuration message). After receiving the measurement frame type 1 / measurement frame type 3 sent by the subsequent node, the preceding node can configure the AGC level used by the preceding node in SLEM0 based on the preamble channel in measurement frame type 1 / measurement frame type 3, for example, AGC level X.

[0166] For example, as shown in Figure 10, a late-sending node can send measurement frame type 1 or measurement frame type 3 to a first-sending node on the AGC channel.

[0167] Step 430: Based on the AGC level X obtained on channel 1, the first node sends measurement frame type 2 to the subsequent nodes on the target working channel set (channel 0 - signal M).

[0168] In this embodiment, the first node can send measurement frame type 2 to the subsequent node on the target working channel set (channel 0-signal M) based on the AGC level X obtained on channel 1. The subsequent node receives the measurement frame type 2 sent by the first node on channel 0-signal M, and obtains the measurement result of channel 0-signal M in SLEM0 based on the measurement signal in the measurement frame type 2 and the AGC level X.

[0169] In one possible implementation, as shown in Figure 11, the first node can use frequency hopping to send measurement frame type 2 to the subsequent node on the target working channel set (channel 0 - signal M).

[0170] The frequency hopping method described above can be a random frequency hopping pattern or a linear frequency sweeping pattern, and this application does not specifically limit it.

[0171] The target working channel set (channel 0-channel M) mentioned above may include channel 1, or may not include channel 1. This application does not make any specific limitation in this regard.

[0172] It should be understood that the measurement results of the aforementioned channel may include, but are not limited to, the following information about the channel: received signal strength indication (RSSI), channel state information (CSI), IQ components, etc.

[0173] In this embodiment, after obtaining the measurement results of channel 0-signal M, the subsequent node can also send the measurement results of channel 0-signal M to the preceding node. For example, the subsequent node can send the measurement results of channel 0-signal M to the preceding node through the aforementioned measurement information reporting message.

[0174] It should be understood that the descriptions of each field in the message reporting measurement information are provided in Table 1, and will not be repeated here.

[0175] Step 435: Based on the AGC level X obtained on channel 1, the subsequent node sends measurement frame type 2 to the preceding node on the target working channel set (channel 0 - signal M).

[0176] In this embodiment, the subsequent node can send measurement frame type 2 to the preceding node on the target working channel set (channel 0-signal M) based on the AGC level X obtained on channel 1. The preceding node receives the measurement frame type 2 sent by the subsequent node on channel 0-signal M, and obtains the measurement results of channel 0-signal M in SLEM0 based on the measurement signal in the measurement frame type 2 and the AGC level X.

[0177] In one possible implementation, as shown in Figure 11, the subsequent node can use frequency hopping to send measurement frame type 2 to the preceding node on the target working channel set (channel 0 - signal M).

[0178] The frequency hopping method described above can be a random frequency hopping pattern or a linear frequency sweeping pattern, and this application does not specifically limit it.

[0179] The target working channel set (channel 0-channel M) mentioned above may include channel 1, or may not include channel 1. This application does not make any specific limitation in this regard.

[0180] In this embodiment of the application, after the first node obtains the measurement result of channel 0-signal M, it can also send the measurement result of channel 0-signal M to the subsequent node. For example, the first node can send the measurement result of channel 0-signal M to the subsequent node through the aforementioned measurement information reporting message.

[0181] Step 440: The first node and the second node respectively calculate the measurement results of channel 0-channel M in SLEM0.

[0182] In this embodiment of the application, the first node / later node can obtain the measurement results of channel 0-channel M in SLEM0 based on the measurement results of channel 0-channel M measured locally in SLEM0 and the measurement results of channel 0-channel M measured by the peer device.

[0183] In one possible implementation, the first node / second node can merge the measurement results of channel 0-channel M measured locally in SLEM0 and the measurement results of channel 0-channel M measured by the peer device to obtain the measurement results of channel 0-channel M in SLEM0.

[0184] Example 1: Taking the first node's calculation of the measurement results of channel 0-channel M in SLEM0 as an example, the above-mentioned locally measured channel 0-channel M measurement results refer to the measurement results of channel 0-channel M obtained by the first node itself. The measurement results of channel 0-channel M measured by the peer device refer to the measurement results of channel 0-channel M obtained by the second node and sent to the first node by the second node.

[0185] Example 2, taking the calculation of the measurement results of channel 0-channel M in SLEM0 by the subsequent node as an example, the measurement results of channel 0-channel M measured locally above refer to the measurement results of channel 0-channel M obtained by the subsequent node itself, and the measurement results of channel 0-channel M measured by the peer device refer to the measurement results of channel 0-channel M obtained by the first node and sent to the subsequent node by the first node.

[0186] For example, taking the channel measurement results as the channel's IQ components, for the first node, it can calculate the measurement results for channel 0-channel M based on its own measured IQ components for channel 0-channel M (referred to as local IQ components) and / or the IQ components for channel 0-channel M measured by the subsequent node (referred to as remote IQ components). Similarly, for the subsequent node, it can calculate the measurement results for channel 0-channel M based on its own measured IQ components for channel 0-channel M (referred to as local IQ components) and / or the IQ components for channel 0-channel M measured by the first node (referred to as remote IQ components).

[0187] Step 445: The first / last node determines the channel number of the first channel in SLEM1 (the channel in SLEM1 configured with AGC level) based on the measurement results of channels 0-M in SLEM0.

[0188] In this embodiment of the application, the first node / later node can determine the channel number of the first channel in SLEM1 based on the measurement results of channels 0-M in SLEM0 obtained above. The first channel is the channel for AGC gear configuration during the initialization phase of SLEM1.

[0189] In one possible implementation, the first / last node can calculate whether channel saturation has occurred based on the measurement results of channels 0-M. For example, if the first / last node detects channel saturation, it can determine the channel number of the first channel (the channel configured with AGC level in SLEM1) based on parameters such as the range of saturated channels and the magnitude of the saturation value.

[0190] For example, let's take the measurement results of channels 0-M as IQ as an example. The first / last node can find the channel with the lowest IQ amplitude, and then find the channel with the highest IQ amplitude within the saturation range through interpolation. The channel number of the first channel is obtained by averaging the numbers of the channels with the lowest and highest IQ amplitudes.

[0191] As an example, suppose that the channel number of the first channel in SLEM1 determined in this application embodiment is N, and the channel with channel number N is included in channel 0-channel M.

[0192] The channel with channel number N mentioned above can also be called channel N.

[0193] Step 450: The first / last node sends the channel number N of the first channel in SLEM1 to the peer node.

[0194] In this embodiment of the application, after determining the channel number N of the first channel in SLEM1, the first node / second node can send the channel number N of the first channel in SLEM1 to the peer node.

[0195] As an example, the channel number N of the first channel in SLEM1 described above can be transmitted by the CSI transmitting node. For instance, suppose a subsequent node needs to calculate distance, and the preceding node needs to send the channel CSI to the subsequent node. The preceding node can send the channel number N of the first channel in SLEM1 to the subsequent node along with the CSI transmission opportunity / transmission event. Again, suppose the preceding node needs to calculate distance, and the subsequent node needs to send the channel CSI to the preceding node. The subsequent node can send the channel number N of the first channel in SLEM1 to the preceding node along with the CSI transmission opportunity / transmission event.

[0196] The aforementioned first channel number can be carried in the PDU used for transmitting CSI (e.g., measurement information reporting message) or in a new SLE_AGC_IND_PDU for more flexible transmission in various events / time slots. This application embodiment does not specifically limit this. When the aforementioned first channel number is carried in the measurement information reporting message for transmitting CSI, the first channel number (initialization phase channel number) is determined by the first or subsequent node reporting CSI based on the measurement results of the previous measurement event group.

[0197] In this embodiment, after the first / second node sends the channel number N of the first channel in SLEM1 to the node on the other side, the node on the other side receiving the channel number needs to reply with an ACK for the channel number N of the first channel to confirm. If the node that sent the channel number N of the first channel receives the ACK sent by the node on the other side, it considers the negotiation of the first channel in SLEM1 to be successful, and the AGC level can be configured in SLEM1 using the negotiated channel number N of the first channel. If the node that sent the channel number N of the first channel does not receive the ACK sent by the node on the other side, it considers the negotiation of the first channel in SLEM1 to be unsuccessful, and the AGC level can be configured in SLEM1 using the pre-configured first channel (e.g., channel 1).

[0198] For example, suppose the initiating node sends the channel number N of the first channel in SLEM1 during the time slot for sending CSI to the subsequent node. The subsequent node needs to reply with an ACK to acknowledge receiving the channel number N of the first channel. If the initiating node receives the ACK information from the subsequent node, it can be considered that the first channel in SLEM1 has been successfully negotiated between the initiating and subsequent nodes. When no ACK information is received or a negative acknowledgment (NACK) is received, the initiating and subsequent nodes continue to use the first channel used in the previous SLEM during the SLEM initialization phase. Specifically, the SLE radio frame includes a physical layer header and a data portion. The physical layer header includes a preamble, synchronization signal, and physical layer control information. The physical layer data portion includes physical layer data information, an integrity protection field (optional), and a cyclic redundancy check field. The ACK information is the received sequence number field of the physical layer control information of the radio frame following the measurement information reporting message, corresponding to the ACK / NACK (abbreviated as A / N) feedback information, indicating the sequence number of the packet that is expected to be sent by the other side next. If the sequence number of the next packet sent by the other side is a new packet, then it corresponds to ACK; otherwise, if the sequence number of the next packet sent by the other side is the current packet, then it represents NACK for the current packet. The above measurement information reporting message and the radio frame as the response frame constitute an event.

[0199] In this embodiment of the application, in order to avoid not receiving ACK, the following steps can be performed simultaneously: 1. First, configure the AGC level on the pre-configured channel (e.g., channel 1); 2. Then, configure the AGC level on the first negotiated channel (channel number N).

[0200] Step 455: During the initialization phase of SLEM1, the first node sends measurement frame type 1 / measurement frame type 3 to the subsequent node on channel N.

[0201] In this embodiment, during the initialization phase of SLEM1, the first node can send measurement frame type 1 / measurement frame type 3 to the subsequent node on channel N, as determined above. After receiving the measurement frame type 1 / measurement frame type 3 sent by the first node, the subsequent node can configure the AGC level used by the subsequent node in SLEM0 based on the preamble channel in measurement frame type 1 / measurement frame type 3, for example, AGC level Y.

[0202] Step 460: During the initialization phase of SLEM1, the subsequent node sends measurement frame type 1 / measurement frame type 3 to the preceding node on channel N.

[0203] In this embodiment, during the initialization phase of SLEM1, the subsequent node can send measurement frame type 1 / measurement frame type 3 to the preceding node on channel N, based on the determined channel N. After receiving the measurement frame type 1 / measurement frame type 3 sent by the subsequent node, the preceding node can configure the AGC level used by the preceding node in SLEM0 based on the preamble channel in measurement frame type 1 / measurement frame type 3, for example, AGC level Y.

[0204] Step 465: Based on the AGC level Y obtained on channel N, the first node sends measurement frame type 2 to the subsequent nodes on the target working channel set (channel 0-signal M).

[0205] In this embodiment, the first node can send measurement frame type 2 to the subsequent node on the target working channel set (channel 0-signal M) based on the AGC level Y obtained on channel N. The subsequent node receives the measurement frame type 2 sent by the first node on channel 0-signal M, and obtains the measurement result of channel 0-signal M in SLEM1 based on the measurement signal in the measurement frame type 2 and the AGC level Y.

[0206] Step 470: Based on the AGC level Y obtained on channel N, the subsequent node sends measurement frame type 2 to the preceding node on the target working channel set (channel 0 - signal M).

[0207] In this embodiment, the subsequent node can send measurement frame type 2 to the preceding node on the target working channel set (channel 0-signal M) based on the AGC level Y obtained on channel N. The preceding node receives the measurement frame type 2 sent by the subsequent node on channel 0-signal M, and obtains the measurement results of channel 0-signal M in SLEM1 based on the measurement signal in the measurement frame type 2 and the AGC level Y.

[0208] Step 475: The first node and the second node respectively calculate the measurement results of channel 0-channel M in SLEM1.

[0209] Similar to step 440, please refer to the description in step 440 for details, which will not be repeated here.

[0210] Step 480: The first / last node determines the channel number of the first channel (the channel configured with AGC level in SLEM1) in SLEM2 based on the measurement results of channels 0-M in SLEM1.

[0211] Similar to step 445, please refer to the description in step 440 for details, which will not be repeated here.

[0212] In the above technical solution, based on the measurement information of the previous SLEM (e.g., CSI, RSSI, etc. of each frequency point), the channel where the AGC configuration is located is dynamically determined between the transceiver devices. This solves the problem of received signal saturation caused by frequency selectivity in using a fixed first channel for each SLEM, improves the quality and accuracy of the received signal, and enhances the accuracy of measurement (range, angle or speed measurement) and sensing applications.

[0213] Figure 4 above illustrates the method of determining the first channel of the next SLEM based on the measurement results of the previous SLEM. In some embodiments, the first channel adjustment can be performed every P SLEMs, where P is a positive integer greater than 1. Based on the measurement results of the last SLEM in each P SLEM set, a first channel adjustment is performed at the beginning of each P SLEM set. The AGC level obtained at the beginning of each P SLEM set is used for each SLEM within that P SLEM set.

[0214] The methods provided by the embodiments of this application have been described in detail above with reference to Figures 1 to 11. The embodiments of the apparatus of this application will be described in detail below with reference to Figures 12-14. It should be understood that the descriptions of the method embodiments correspond to the descriptions of the apparatus embodiments; therefore, any parts not described in detail can be referred to the preceding method embodiments.

[0215] To implement the functions of the method provided in this application, both the transmitting device 110 and the receiving device 120 may include hardware structures and / or software modules, implementing the above functions in the form of hardware structures, software modules, or a combination of hardware structures and software modules. Whether a particular function is implemented in the form of hardware structures, software modules, or a combination of hardware structures and software modules depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution.

[0216] Figure 12 is a schematic block diagram of a communication device 500 according to an embodiment of this application. The communication device 500 includes a processor 510 and a communication interface 520, which can be interconnected via a bus 530. The communication device 500 can be a transmitting device 110 or a receiving device 120.

[0217] Optionally, the communication device 500 may also include a memory 540. The memory 540 includes, but is not limited to, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), or compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), which is used for related instructions and data.

[0218] Processor 510 can be one or more central processing units (CPUs). When processor 510 is a CPU, the CPU can be a single-core CPU or a multi-core CPU.

[0219] The above description is for illustrative purposes only. When the communication device 500 is a first-mover node or a second-mover node, it will be responsible for executing the methods or steps related to the first-mover node or the second-mover node in the foregoing method embodiments.

[0220] The above description is merely exemplary. For details, please refer to the methods illustrated in the above embodiments. The implementation of each operation in Figure 12 can also be found in the corresponding descriptions of the methods illustrated in Figures 4 and 5.

[0221] Figure 13 is a schematic block diagram of a communication device 600 according to an embodiment of this application. The communication device 600 can be a first-sender node or a second-sender node, or a chip or module in a first-sender node or a second-sender node, used to implement the methods involved in the above embodiments. The communication device 600 includes a transceiver unit 610 and a processing unit 620. The transceiver unit 610 and the processing unit 620 will be described exemplarily below.

[0222] The transceiver unit 610 may include a transmitting unit and a receiving unit. The transmitting unit is used to perform the transmitting action of the communication device, and the receiving unit is used to perform the receiving action of the communication device. For ease of description, the transmitting unit and the receiving unit are combined into one transceiver unit in this embodiment. This will be explained uniformly here and will not be repeated later.

[0223] The above description is for illustrative purposes only. When the communication device 600 is a first-mover node or a second-mover node, it will be responsible for executing the methods or steps related to the first-mover node or the second-mover node in the foregoing method embodiments.

[0224] Optionally, the communication device 600 further includes a storage unit 630 for storing programs or code for performing the aforementioned methods.

[0225] The apparatus embodiments shown in Figures 12 and 13 are used to implement the contents described in Figures 4 and 5. The specific execution steps and methods of the apparatus shown in Figures 12 and 13 can be found in the foregoing method embodiments.

[0226] Figure 14 is a schematic block diagram of a communication device 700 according to an embodiment of this application. The communication device 700 is used to implement the functions of a first-mover node or a second-mover node. The communication device 700 may be a chip in the first-mover node or the second-mover node.

[0227] The communication device 700 includes an input / output interface 720 and a processor 710. The input / output interface 720 may be an input / output circuit. The processor 710 may be a signal processor, a chip, or other integrated circuit capable of implementing the method of this application. The input / output interface 720 is used for inputting or outputting signals or data.

[0228] In one possible implementation, the processor 710 performs the functions of a first-mover node or a second-mover node by executing instructions stored in memory.

[0229] Optionally, the communication device 700 may also include a memory.

[0230] Optionally, the processor and memory are integrated together.

[0231] Optionally, the memory is located outside the communication device 700.

[0232] In one possible implementation, the processor 710 can be a logic circuit, which inputs / outputs messages or signaling through the input / output interface 720. The logic circuit can be a signal processor, a chip, or other integrated circuit that can implement the methods of the embodiments of this application.

[0233] The above description of the communication device 700 is merely an exemplary description. The communication device 700 can be used to execute the methods described in the foregoing embodiments. For details, please refer to the description of the foregoing method embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0234] This application also provides a chip, including a processor, for calling and executing instructions stored in a memory, causing a communication device equipped with the chip to perform the methods described in the examples above.

[0235] This application also provides another chip, including: an input interface, an output interface, and a processor, wherein the input interface, the output interface, and the processor are connected via an internal connection path, and the processor is used to execute code in a memory. When the code is executed, the processor is used to perform the methods in the examples described above. Optionally, the chip further includes a memory for storing computer programs or code.

[0236] This application also provides a processor for coupling with a memory for performing the methods and functions of a network device or terminal device involved in any of the above embodiments.

[0237] In another embodiment of this application, a computer program product containing instructions is provided, which, when run on a computer, enables the implementation of the methods described in the foregoing embodiments.

[0238] This application also provides a computer program that, when run on a computer, enables the implementation of the methods described in the foregoing embodiments.

[0239] In another embodiment of this application, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, which stores a computer program that, when executed by a computer, implements the methods described in the foregoing embodiments.

[0240] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0241] Those skilled in the art will understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0242] The systems, apparatuses, and methods disclosed in the embodiments provided in this application can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection between apparatuses or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0243] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0244] In addition, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit.

[0245] If a function is implemented as a software functional unit and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, essentially, or the parts that contribute to the prior art, or parts of the technical solutions, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods of the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, ROM, RAM, magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0246] The above are merely specific embodiments of this application, but the protection scope of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the embodiments of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, The method includes: In a time slot or event where measurement results from multiple channels are transmitted, the channel number of the first channel is transmitted. The first channel is one of the multiple channels. The first channel is used for initialization interaction of subsequent K channel measurements, where K is an integer greater than 0. A first type of measurement frame is received on the first channel, the first type of measurement frame containing a preamble signal.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Receiving a first type of measurement frame on the first channel includes: Upon receiving an ACK message for the channel number of the first channel, perform an initialization phase event on the first channel or receive the first type of measurement frame.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The ACK information is indicated by the receive sequence number field in the physical layer control information of the radio frame.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The method further includes: Obtain the measurement results of the multiple channels; Based on the measurement results of the multiple channels, the channel number of the first channel is determined.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, Determining the channel number of the first channel based on the measurement results of the plurality of channels includes: Based on the measurement results of the multiple channels, determine whether any of the multiple channels has experienced measurement value overflow; When a measurement result overflow occurs in one of the multiple channels, the channel number of the first channel is determined based on the measurement results of the multiple channels.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The channel number of the first channel is carried in the measurement information reporting message.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The method further includes: Transmit the first type of measurement frame on the first channel.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive a second type of measurement frame on the plurality of channels, the second type of measurement frame including a measurement signal; The measurement signal in the second type of measurement frame is measured to obtain the measurement results of the multiple channels in the subsequent K channel measurements.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The method further includes: Second type measurement frames are transmitted on the multiple channels respectively.

10. The method according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, The second type of measurement frame contains only measurement signals, which are used to measure the measurement results of the multiple channels in the subsequent K channel measurements.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The preamble signal is used to configure the automatic gain control (AGC) level used for the subsequent K channel measurements.

12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send or receive configuration information, the configuration information including the value of K.

13. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that, The channel is measured using a Starflash Low Power Measurement (SLEM) or a Two-Way Ranging DDR.

14. The method according to claim 1 or 13, characterized in that, The measurement results include at least one of the following: Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI), Carrier Frequency Offset (CFO), and Channel State Information (CSI) of the plurality of channels.

15. A communication device, characterized in that, include: The transceiver unit is used to transmit the channel number of the first channel in a time slot or event during which measurement results of multiple channels are transmitted. The first channel is one of the multiple channels. The first channel is used for initialization interaction of subsequent K channel measurements, where K is an integer greater than 0. The transceiver unit is further configured to receive a first type of measurement frame on the first channel, the first type of measurement frame containing a preamble signal.

16. The apparatus according to claim 15, characterized in that, The transceiver unit is specifically used for: After receiving an ACK message for the channel number of the first channel, the first type of measurement frame is received on the first channel.

17. The apparatus according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that, The ACK information is indicated by the receive sequence number field in the physical layer control information of the radio frame.

18. The apparatus according to any one of claims 15 to 17, characterized in that, The device further includes: A processing unit is used to acquire the measurement results of the multiple channels; The processing unit is further configured to determine the channel number of the first channel based on the measurement results of the plurality of channels.

19. The apparatus according to claim 18, characterized in that, The processing unit is specifically used for: Based on the measurement results of the multiple channels, determine whether any of the multiple channels has experienced measurement value overflow; When a measurement result overflow occurs in one of the multiple channels, the channel number of the first channel is determined based on the measurement results of the multiple channels.

20. The apparatus according to any one of claims 15 to 19, characterized in that, The channel number of the first channel is carried in the measurement information reporting message.

21. The apparatus according to any one of claims 15 to 20, characterized in that, The transceiver unit is also configured to transmit the first type of measurement frame on the first channel.

22. The apparatus according to any one of claims 15 to 21, characterized in that, The transceiver unit is further configured to receive a second type of measurement frame on the plurality of channels, the second type of measurement frame including a measurement signal; The processing unit is also used to measure the measurement signal in the second type of measurement frame to obtain the measurement results of the multiple channels in the subsequent K channel measurements.

23. The apparatus according to any one of claims 15 to 22, characterized in that, The transceiver unit is also configured to transmit second-type measurement frames on the plurality of channels respectively.

24. The apparatus according to claim 22 or 23, characterized in that, The second type of measurement frame contains only measurement signals, which are used to measure the measurement results of the multiple channels in the subsequent K channel measurements.

25. The apparatus according to any one of claims 15 to 24, characterized in that, The preamble signal is used to configure the automatic gain control (AGC) level used for the subsequent K channel measurements.

26. The apparatus according to any one of claims 15 to 25, characterized in that, The transceiver unit is also used to receive or send configuration information, the configuration information including the value of K.

27. The apparatus according to any one of claims 15 to 26, characterized in that, The channel is measured using a Starflash Low Power Measurement (SLEM) or a Two-Way Ranging DDR.

28. The apparatus according to claim 15 or 27, characterized in that, The measurement results include at least one of the following: Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI), Carrier Frequency Offset (CFO), and Channel State Information (CSI) of the plurality of channels.

29. A communication device, characterized in that, The apparatus includes a processor coupled to a memory storing instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 14.

30. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The device contains a computer program or instructions for implementing the method of any one of claims 1 to 14.

31. A chip, characterized in that, include: A processor and an interface for calling and running a computer program stored in a memory to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 14.

32. A computer program product, characterized in that, It includes instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the method of any one of claims 1 to 14 to be performed.

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